bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Management Practices in Industries in the Industrial – Free – Trade Zones in Douala, Littoral Region of Cameroon: “Challenges and Prospects”
Authors: Francis Fuamenya A.
Published: September 2018

In Cameroon of late, there is growing consciencious that the deleterious impacts of industrial activities on safety health and environmental quality has motivated government and industries to adopt environmental management practices such as the EMSs and EMA, that is, Environmental Management Systems, and Environmental Management Accounting respectively at the least. This paper however, examines the implementation of EMSs and EMA amongst others in industries in the Industrial –Free – Trade Zones of the South West and Littoral Regions of Cameroon that interact with its environment which has been affected by the effluents emanating from industrial activities.This paper also presents an overview of various initiatives like policies that have been crafted by the government of Cameroon to address the problems of industrial activity such as pollution etc. It also seeks to prescrible recommendations which could be used to save the regions, from industrial pollution. After the participation of Cameroon in the Earth’s Summit in Rio de Janerio, Brazil (1992), and ever since the publication of the Brunditland Commission’s Landmark Report ‘‘Our Common Future’’, in (1987), the government has taken significant steps to overhaul  its institutional framework vis – à – vis the regulation of industrial pollution.Through a questionnaire based survey carried but from January to July 2016 with the sampled industries in the Industrial – Free – Trade – Zones of the South West and Littoral Regions of Cameroon, data was collected. This paper also aims at addressing motivational factors, implementation hurdles as well as benefits accrued by these industries as a result of adapting environmental management systems in their management practices generally. Studies also support that many benefits arise as a result of EMSs and EMA enforcement, but the paradox is the plethora of hurdles that still persist in industries. Against this background, this paper concludes by prescribing recommendations that seek to promote management practices such as EMSs and EMA in industries in Industrial – Free – Trade – Zones in Cameroon.
Harmonizing Higher Education at the Regional Level: The Case of ASEAN and the Philippines
Authors: Berse Pilar Preciousa
Published: September 2018

Education is in the heart of Southeast Asia’s quest for equitable human development throughout the region. This has never been more pronounced than when the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) formed the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) in 2003, ushering in a number of regional directives and initiatives to harmonize higher education among ASEAN member states. Yet, the process has not been easy due to fundamental differences in higher education structure, quality, and processes among member countries. In light of this, the study traced the institutional arrangements and policy responses that have taken place at both regional and national levels in pursuit of integrating higher education in the region. First, it reviewed the key mechanisms that ASEAN has established to foster harmonization. It then discussed the experience of the Philippines in relation to the three components of harmonization, namely, qualifications framework, quality assurance, and credit transfer.  It showed that while the government has shown sufficient response to its regional obligations through legislation and administrative issuances, it needs to do much more to show its commitment and ensure involvement of all higher education institutions in the integration process.
Los espacios transfronterizos europeos: ¿un objeto geográfico de difícil definición? Una aproximación desde la perspectiva de los «soft spaces»
Authors: Giband David , Vicente Rufi Joan
Published: September 2018

El texto propone una visión de los espacios transfronterizos desde la perspectiva de los soft spaces —los espacios blandos— con relación al planeamiento territorial. Con ella se consigue una interpretación mucho más ajustada de la realidad de las áreas transfronterizas, así como de sus dinámicas. Por otra parte, el artículo hace un repaso a lo que ha sido la cooperación transfronteriza en Europa desde sus orígenes hasta llegar al presente. Partiendo de una coincidencia con otros autores en la definición de fases, se acaba proponiendo que la última, iniciada en 2008, se caracterizaría por la tensión entre las fuerzas que reclaman una recuperación de la frontera y la soberanía de los estados y las que, contrariamente, propugnan recuperar la idea de integración europea perdida en la última década. Es decir, precisamente una tensión entre los soft spaces transfronterizos y un rebordering incipiente.
Trillo Santamaría, Juan Manuel y Pires, Iva (eds.) (2016). Fronteras en la investigación peninsular: temáticas y enfoques contemporáneos / Fronteiras na investigação peninsular: temáticas e abordagens contemporáneas
Authors: Cidrás Diego
Published: September 2018

Trillo Santamaría, Juan Manuel y Pires, Iva (eds.) (2016)Fronteras en la investigación peninsular: temáticas y enfoques contemporáneos / Fronteiras na investigação peninsular: temáticas e abordagens contemporáneas Santiago de Compostela: Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 246 p. ISBN 978-84-16954-16-2
Wassenberg, Birte; Reitel, Bernard; Peyrony, Jean and Rubió, Jean (2015). Territorial Cooperation in Europe - A Historical Perspective
Authors: Rubió Jean
Published: September 2018

Wassenberg, Birte; Reitel, Bernard; Peyrony, Jean and Rubió, Jean (2015)Territorial Cooperation in Europe - A Historical PerspectiveLuxembourg: Publications Office of the European Union, 172 p.ISBN 978-92-79-49499-4
Presentación. La cooperación transfronteriza europea en tiempos de refronterización
Authors: Vicente Rufí Joan , Castañer i Vivas Margarita , Pastor Batllori Roser
Published: September 2018

Presentación del volumen 64/3: Espacios fronterizos y cooperación transfronteriza en Europa.
Modelling of Textile Composite Adapted for Roof Structure
Authors: Radaszewska Elżbieta , Benda Aliona , Korycki Ryszard
Published: September 2018

3D structural components made of fibrous composite materials subjected to service loading are analysed. The laminate consists of a matrix reinforced with a ply of long and unidirectional fibres. Participation of the fibres and matrix can vary in each layer. The main goal is to create a composite roof plate transferring variable loads of wet snow or fir and to investigate its strength properties in respect of (i) the type of fibres and matrix, and (ii) the volume fraction of the matrix and fibres within each layer. Modelling of shape and mechanical properties is reduced to the final phase of structural design, omitting time-consuming, expensive experimental tests. The numerical procedure is solved using the ADINA environment and finite element method code.
Acute Liver Failure due to Wilson Disease: Eight Years of the National Liver Transplant Program in Uruguay
Authors: Mainardi Victoria , Rando Karina , Valverde Marcelo , Olivari Daniela , Castelli Jorge , Rey Gabriela , Gerona Solange
Published: September 2018

Introduction and aim. Wilson’s disease (WD) is an uncommon cause of acute liver failure (ALF). Our aim was to describe clinical features, diagnostic findings, treatments, and outcomes of patients with ALF due to WD. Material and methods. Retrospective medical record reviews of all patients with ALF due to WD in eight years in Uruguay. Results. WD was the cause of six (15%) of thirty-nine ALF cases. All patients were females, with a mean age of 18 years. Four patients presented with hyperacute liver failure and two with acute failure. Jaundice was the main complaint of all patients. Mean total bilirubin (TB), alkaline phosphatase (AP), AST, and ALT were 27.5 mg/dL, 45.5 IU/l, 156 IU/L, and 51 IU/L, respectively. Ceruloplasmin levels were low in four patients, urinary cooper was high in four, and two had Kayser-Fleischer rings. All patients had Coombs-negative hemolytic anemia, acute kidney injury, histochemical identifiable copper, and advanced fibrosis on liver histology. The average MELD score was 36. All patients were treated with d-penicillamine and listed for urgent liver transplantation (LT). Prometheus® was performed in one patient. Three patients died: two without LT and one after LT. Three patients survived: one without LT (New Wilson Index < 11) and two with LT. The referral time to the program and the total time (referral plus waiting list time) were longer for non-survivors than for survivors (14 vs. 3 days and 23 vs. 8 respectively). Conclusion. All cases had typical clinical, analytical and histopathology characteristics. Early referral was determinant of prognosis.
Investigación aplicada al territorio desde la Medicina Familiar
Authors: Escobar Mauricio Alberto Rodríguez , Rivera Lina María Mahecha , Martínez Omaira Flores , Ortega Miguel Ángel Fernández
Published: September 2018

En el contexto la VII Cumbre Iberoamericana de Medicina Familiar, efectuada en Cali, Colombia el 13 y 14 de Marzo de 2018, el grupo de investigación y la Red Iberoamericana de Medicina Familiar (IBIMEFA) con el objetivo de Identificar las percepciones de médicos familiares graduados y en proceso de formación de Iberoamérica, sobre las condiciones que tienen para desarrollar investigación aplicada al territorio, realizaron un estudio exploratorio, descriptivo, de corte transversal en los países miembros de la Confederación Iberoamericana de Medicina Familiar (CIMF). Para la recolección de información, se diseñó una encuesta con 51 items, cuyo contenido fue validado por el grupo de trabajo. El instrumento se almacenó en Google Drive y su divulgación se efectuó a través de medios virtuales. Se obtuvo respuesta de 277 personas, representantes de 16 países de Iberoamérica en los que se encontró que existe interés y potencial dentro del grupo de la Red IBIMEFA, para realizar estudios con el enfoque de investigación aplicada al territorio, aunque se deben superar dificultades de tiempo y financiación para lograrlo, así como encontrar estratégias que permitan hacer un trabajo cooperativo que consolide la Red.
REESTRUTURAÇÕES CURRICULARES NAS LICENCIATURAS: UM ENSAIO TEÓRICO SOBRE AS DUAS FACES –
A LEGISLATIVA E A REAL
Authors: Andrade dos Santos Tais , Pereira de Souza Filho Moacir
Published: September 2018

The initial formation of teachers in the Brazilian context depends on a plurality of guidelines that guide the
initial formation and teacher professionalization. This theoretical essay was elaborated with the objective
of discussing the problem of curricular adequacy in the initial formation of teachers, based on the
structuring guidelines of the degree courses, pondering the importance of the pre-existing ideologies of the
Trainer Teacher. In this work we have as main references Apple (2006) and Sacristán (2008) for the
discussion of curriculum and Opinion CNE / CP nº 111/2012 as an example in this discussion. As a result of
this reflection, we consider that it is essential to continue the formation of teacher trainers, so that there is
a space for reflection on what it means to train a teacher and about the culture in which their experience
within the university, enabling the ideological rupture of the teacher and also building and unbalancing
hegemonies within the colleges by building curricula for undergraduate degrees.
TEATRO NA ESCOLA: UM RECURSO PEDAGÓGICO DO PROCESSO DE ENSINO E APRENDIZAGEM
Authors: Aparecida Fernandes de Castro Genice , Cássia Pacito Silva Rita , Madia Mantovani Aline , da Silva Santana Éder , Alves da Cunha Leandro , dos Santos Carvalho Anderson
Published: September 2018

The theater consists of one of the languages of the Art that implies the interpretation of stories for an
audience and can be used in the school with a pedagogical function, serving as a subsidy for the corporal
and cultural development of the children. The subject who has the chance to participate in theatrical
activities can develop the critical ability to evaluate impressions of the outer and inner world, related to the
real and the imaginary. The Physical Education and other curriculum disciplines can use theater as a
facilitator of the teaching and learning process, a factor not yet found in the country's curriculum. Given
these assumptions, the purpose of this study is to present theater as a didactic resource and facilitator of
the teaching and learning process. It was adopted as a method a qualitative approach, with a bibliographic
character, and it was concluded that the theater can contribute in a significant way with the overall
development of the child.
Distortions in Large Stiffened Ship Panels Caused by Welding: An Experimental Study
Authors: Podder Debabrata , Das Sreekanta , Mandal Nisith R.
Published: September 2018

Severe distortions are observed in fabrication of large stiffened ship panels using lower thickness plates ranging from 3 mm to 10 mm. It requires expensive postwelding fairing operations. It is naturally preferable to control the distortion during fabrication than to apply fairing operations. Welding sequence plays an important role in controlling distortion. The aspect of weld sequencing has been studied only on a small and extremely simple form of test models. Possible welding sequences were worked out, based on principles of heat balancing or heat accumulation and subsequent behavior of such panels. Based on this, large stiffened panels were fabricated using low carbon steel of shipbuilding quality considering four different welding sequences. Initial and final distortions of these panels were measured using high precision coordinate measuring machine. In this investigation, experiments and measurements played a very important role, as numerical simulation of such large panels would have been prohibitively expensive or not feasible. This study established the pattern of welding sequence that needs to be followed for minimizing welding distortion in the fabrication of large stiffened panels. Gainful conclusions were drawn to give directions to welding designers to work out the appropriate sequence of welding to minimize the weld-induced panel distortions.

1. Introduction

Ship structural components are built by assembling various stiffened steel plates. Large steel plates are stiffened by welding stiffeners using fusion welding process which is a common welding method used in the shipbuilding industry. Severe thermal gradients in the welded components occur because of intense localized heating in the heat-affected zone (HAZ), followed by uneven cooling. As a result, residual stresses and distortions occur in the welded components. These distortions are introduce in the block assembly process in shipbuilding. These unwanted distortions result in additional production cost because necessary rectification process and extra manpower are required. These also cause delays in shipbuilding.
Depuis les destructions jusqu’à l’ébauche d’une théorie patrimoniale
Authors: Henryot Fabienne
Published: September 2018

À partir de 1792, l’extension par les armes de la Révolution entraîne l’occupation puis l’annexion des territoires situés entre Meuse et Rhin et, en conséquence, la mise en place de nouveaux découpages territoriaux où s’applique la législation parisienne, notamment en matière de bibliothèques. Cette législation rencontre toutefois une difficulté inédite, celle des bouleversements induits par le passage des armées et les opérations militaires. Beaucoup de bibliothèques promises au séquestre, comme cela avait eu lieu en France quatre ans auparavant, sont en effet dévastées par les pillages, mises à sac, réquisitions et incendies. Les instances révolutionnaires doivent donc se prononcer sur ce déploiement de violence, et justifier par ailleurs les mises sous séquestre, perçues comme une violence patrimoniale par les anciens possesseurs de ces collections. Le discours se fonde sur la libération des biens culturels confisqués jusqu’alors par le despotisme, sur la nécessité de nourrir par le livre un projet éducatif universel inédit, enfin sur un rêve culturel universel et cosmopolite concrétisé à Paris, capitale de la liberté. Tout en condamnant la brutalité des armées, ce discours promeut l’action militaire comme moyen efficace de mise en oeuvre de cette politique patrimoniale. L’exemple des départements constitués dans les anciens Pays-Bas méridionaux est d’autant plus intéressant qu’il marque un premier jalon dans l’histoire des conquêtes culturelles et de la spoliation des bibliothèques hors de France et dans la réflexion qui s’affinera ensuite dans les départements italiens et allemands, entre le Directoire et l’Empire.
Le rôle du patrimoine dans la construction identitaire et géopolitique de la Corée du Sud
Authors: Bae Jung Sook
Published: September 2018

Au cours de son histoire, après une période de destruction systématique, la Corée du Sud a su procéder à une réappropriation patrimoniale et culturelle progressive et adaptée à son contexte socioculturel et économique. Les planifications à long terme successives du développement ont permis aux Coréens d’inventer des concepts originaux et de mettre de nouvelles technologies au service de la conservation, de la protection et de la valorisation du patrimoine culturel. La combinaison de la culture traditionnelle et des nouvelles technologies est bénéfique au niveau artistique, avec des résultats parfois très étonnants pour ceux qui ne sont pas familiers avec cet environnement socioculturel. La tendance à la globalisation et à l’internationalisation est présente, mais un certain conservatisme nationaliste reste un frein récurrent. Cette étude présente une vue globale du processus politique de réappropriation du patrimoine culturel, depuis l’indépendance de la Corée jusqu’à nos jours. La Corée du Sud a su instaurer un cadre institutionnel à différents niveaux d’organisation pour protéger, voire développer, ses acquis patrimoniaux. Elle propose les aspects les plus originaux et les plus efficients de son programme culturel (dont la notion de « bien culturel immatériel ») à la communauté internationale. Un exemple significatif illustre l’évolution historique du bien culturel immatériel le plus précieux des Corées : le système d’écriture hangeul.
La Cour pénale internationale face à la destruction du patrimoine culturel
Authors: Mainetti Vittorio
Published: September 2018

Le 27 septembre 2016, la Cour pénale internationale a reconnu Ahmad al-Mahdi coupable de crimes de guerre pour avoir dirigé intentionnellement des attaques contre dix des monuments les plus importants et les plus connus de Tombouctou, ville inscrite sur la Liste du patrimoine mondial de l’UNESCO depuis 1988. Pour la première fois, la CPI s’est penchée sur la destruction du patrimoine culturel. La portée de son jugement est donc historique. Toutefois, malgré la médiatisation et un certain triomphalisme qui ont caractérisé l’adoption de cette décision, quelques réserves peuvent être soulevées quant à l’interprétation suivie par la Cour. Il s’agit néanmoins d’une « affaire pilote » qui ne manquera pas d’influencer la jurisprudence à l’avenir et constitue d’ores et déjà un jalon dans la construction de l’édifice normatif du droit international de la culture.
Genetic predisposition to uterine leiomyoma is determined by loci for genitourinary development and genome stability
Authors: Välimäki Niko , Kuisma Heli , Pasanen Annukka , Heikinheimo Oskari , Sjöberg Jari , Bützow Ralf , Sarvilinna Nanna , Heinonen Hanna-Riikka , Tolvanen Jaana , Bramante Simona , Tanskanen Tomas , Auvinen Juha , Uimari Outi , Alkodsi Amjad , Lehtonen Rainer , Kaasinen Eevi , Palin Kimmo , Aaltonen Lauri A
Published: September 2018

Uterine leiomyomas (ULs) are benign tumors that are a major burden to women’s health. A genome-wide association study on 15,453 UL cases and 392,628 controls was performed, followed by replication of the genomic risk in six cohorts. Effects of the risk alleles were evaluated in view of molecular and clinical characteristics. 22 loci displayed a genome-wide significant association. The likely predisposition genes could be grouped to two biological processes. Genes involved in genome stability were represented by TERT, TERC, OBFC1 - highlighting the role of telomere maintenance - TP53 and ATM. Genes involved in genitourinary development, WNT4, WT1, SALL1, MED12, ESR1, GREB1, FOXO1, DMRT1 and uterine stem cell marker antigen CD44, formed another strong subgroup. The combined risk contributed by the 22 loci was associated with MED12 mutation-positive tumors. The findings link genes for uterine development and genetic stability to leiomyomagenesis, and in part explain the more frequent occurrence of UL in women of African origin.
Association of Use of Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids With Changes in Severity of Anxiety Symptoms
Authors: Su Kuan-Pin , Tseng Ping-Tao , Lin Pao-Yen , Okubo Ryo , Chen Tien-Yu , Chen Yen-Wen , Matsuoka Yutaka J.
Published: September 2018

Importance

No systematic review or meta-analysis has assessed the efficacy of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) for anxiety.

Objective

To evaluate the association of anxiety symptoms with omega-3 PUFA treatment compared with controls in varied populations.

Data Sources

PubMed, Embase, ProQuest, ScienceDirect, Cochrane Library, ClinicalKey, Web of Science, and ClinicalTrials.gov databases were searched up to March 4, 2018.

Study Selection

A search was performed of clinical trials assessing the anxiolytic effect of omega-3 PUFAs in humans, in either placebo-controlled or non–placebo-controlled designs. Of 104 selected articles, 19 entered the final data extraction stage.

Data Extraction and Measures

Two authors independently extracted the data according to a predetermined list of interests. A random-effects model meta-analysis was performed and this study was conducted based on Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Changes in the severity of anxiety symptoms after omega-3 PUFA treatment.

Results

In total, 1203 participants with omega-3 PUFA treatment (mean age, 43.7 years; mean female proportion, 55.0%; mean omega-3 PUFA dosage, 1605.7 mg/d) and 1037 participants without omega-3 PUFA treatment (mean age, 40.6 years; mean female proportion, 55.0%) showed an association between clinical anxiety symptoms among participants with omega-3 PUFA treatment compared with control arms (Hedges g, 0.374; 95% CI, 0.081-0.666; P = .01). Subgroup analysis showed that the association of treatment with reduced anxiety symptoms was significantly greater in subgroups with specific clinical diagnoses than in subgroups without clinical conditions. The anxiolytic effect of omega-3 PUFAs was significantly better than that of controls only in subgroups with a higher dosage (at least 2000 mg/d) and not in subgroups with a lower dosage (<2000 mg/d).

Conclusions and Relevance

This review indicates that omega-3 PUFAs might help to reduce the symptoms of clinical anxiety. Further well-designed studies are needed in populations in whom anxiety is the main symptom.
Layer‐by‐Layer Assembly of Cross‐Functional Semi‐transparent MXene‐Carbon Nanotubes Composite Films for Next‐Generation Electromagnetic Interference Shielding
Authors: Weng Guo‐Ming , Li Jinyang , Alhabeb Mohamed , Karpovich Christopher , Wang Hang , Lipton Jason , Maleski Kathleen , Kong Jaemin , Shaulsky Evyatar , Elimelech Menachem , Gogotsi Yury , Taylor André D.
Published: September 2018

Lightweight, flexible, and electrically conductive thin films with high electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding effectiveness are highly desirable for next‐generation portable and wearable electronic devices. Here, spin spray layer‐by‐layer (SSLbL) to rapidly assemble Ti3C2Tx MXene‐carbon nanotube (CNT) composite films is shown and their potential for EMI shielding is demonstrated. The SSLbL technique allows strategic combinations of nanostructured materials and polymers providing a rich platform for developing hierarchical architectures with desirable cross‐functionalities including controllable transparency, thickness, and conductivity, as well as high stability and flexibility. These semi‐transparent LbL MXene‐CNT composite films show high conductivities up to 130 S cm−1 and high specific shielding effectiveness up to 58 187 dB cm2 g−1, which is attributed to both the excellent electrical conductivity of the conductive fillers (i.e., MXene and CNT) and the enhanced absorption with the LbL architecture of the films. Remarkably, these values are among the highest reported values for flexible and semi‐transparent composite thin films. This work could offer new solutions for next‐generation EMI shielding challenges.
Integrated Fiber Flow Sensors for Microfluidic Interconnects
Authors: Chen Boxue , Kwok Corey , Nguyen Thien‐An Ngoc , Wang Zheng
Published: September 2018

Thermal flow sensors in multimaterial fibers that overcome the fundamental trade‐off between sensitivity, pressure drop, measurement range, and temperature rise are demonstrated. Significant performance improvement over existing microelectromechanical systems flow sensors is realized with the use of conductive polymers as hot films and multisegment structures unique to fiber fabrication processes. This unconventional form of flow sensors paves the way toward multifunctional microfluidics feed lines needed in large‐scale multichip integration in microfluidics and opens new possibilities in lab‐on‐fiber technologies.
Halide Perovskite Quantum Dots for Light‐Emitting Diodes: Properties, Synthesis, Applications, and Outlooks
Authors: Le Quyet Van , Hong Kootak , Jang Ho Won , Kim Soo Young
Published: September 2018

Recently, quantum dot light‐emitting devices have drawn significant attention in the field of display technologies due to their low power consumption, high color purity, and solution processability. Among these, halide perovskite quantum dots (HPQDs) have emerged as the most efficient quantum dots for light‐emitting applications, with photoluminescence quantum yields (PLQYs) approaching 100%. In this Review, the current progress of HPQDs, including their synthesis, properties, and applications in light‐emitting devices, are summarized and discussed. First, the optical and physical properties of HPQDs and their advantages as emissive layers in light‐emitting devices are discussed. Next, synthetic strategies for the synthesis of high‐quality and high‐PLQY HPQDs are introduced. Subsequently, critical parameters affecting the properties and structures of HPQDs, such as the role of surface passivation, fast anion exchange, self‐healing, sintering, and phase transformation, are clarified. In addition, strategies for improving HPQD light‐emitting diodes (HP‐QLEDs) are presented. Finally, the challenges in and a perspective on the progress and directions for the future development of HP‐QLEDs are provided.
Efficacy of Botulinum Toxin A for Treating Cramps in Diabetic Neuropathy
Authors: Restivo Domenico A. , Casabona Antonino , Frittitta Lucia , Belfiore Antonino , Le Moli Rosario , Gullo Damiano , Vigneri Riccardo
Published: September 2018

Objective

Muscle cramps occur in >50% of diabetic patients and reduce the quality of life. No effective treatment is available. We evaluated the clinical effectiveness of botulinum toxin A (BTX‐A) injections for treating cramps in diabetic patients with neuropathy.

Methods

This single‐center, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled perspective study investigated the efficacy and safety of BTX‐A intramuscular injection for treating calf or foot cramps refractory to common pharmacological drugs. Fifty diabetic patients with peripheral neuropathy and cramps were randomly assigned to 2 matched groups. BTX‐A (100 or 30 units) or saline was injected on each side into the gastrocnemius or the small flexor foot muscles. Changes in pain intensity (primary outcome) and cramp frequency were evaluated over the course of 20 weeks after BTX‐A administration. Cramp interference in daily life and the electrophysiological cramp threshold frequency were also measured. The treatment was repeated 5 months after first injection in 19 responders.

Results

All outcome measures improved significantly after BTX‐A compared with placebo. The changes with respect to baseline were already significant after 1 week and persisted up to week 14. Only 5 of 25 (20%) patients were nonresponders (<50% decrease of the primary outcome). The responses to a second BTX‐A injection provided results similar to the first administration. Mild pain at the injection site (4/25 cases) was the only adverse event, and it disappeared within 2 to 3 days.

Interpretation

Local BTX‐A infiltration is an efficacious and safe procedure for obtaining a sustained amelioration of muscle cramps associated with diabetic neuropathy. Ann Neurol 2018;84:682–690
Synthesis of quinazolines over recyclable Fe3O4@SiO2‐PrNH2‐Fe3+ nanoparticles: A green, efficient, and solvent‐free protocol
Authors: Eidi Esmaiel , Kassaee Mohamad Z. , Nasresfahani Zahra , Cummings Peter T.
Published: September 2018

A practical and efficient method is developed for efficient synthesis of quinazoline derivatives through condensation reaction of 2‐aminoaryl ketone, an aldehyde, and ammonium acetate, over magnetic Fe3O4@SiO2‐PrNH2‐Fe3+ NPs as a recyclable nanocatalyst, under solvent‐free conditions. The as‐prepared nanocatalyst was characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). Mild conditions, easy work up, high purity of the products, recyclability, readily availability, nontoxicity, economical, and environmental‐friendly nature of the iron catalyst are the attractive features of this methodology.
New Results on Exponential Stability of Competitive Neural Networks with Multi‐Proportional Delays
Authors: Qin Jiali , Li Yongkun
Published: September 2018

In this paper, we are concerned with a class of competitive neural networks with multi‐proportional delays. By applying the Banach fixed point theorem and constructing suitable Lyapunov functions, we obtain new sufficient conditions for the global exponential stability to this class of neural networks, which are easily verifiable. Finally, two examples are given to illustrate the effectiveness of the obtained results.
Discussion of “Birnbaum‐Saunders distribution: A review of models, analysis, and applications”
Authors: Jamalizadeh Ahad , Hashemi Farzane , Naderi Mehrdad
Published: September 2018

This paper provides the distribution of order statistics from a multivariate Birnbaum‐Saunders (GMBS) distribution which can be used in the reliability and lifetime analyses. Proposing a new generalization of Birnbaum‐Saunders distribution based on the unified skew‐elliptical model, some properties of the order statistics are also studied.
Characterising the Subsite Specificity of Urokinase‐Type Plasminogen Activator and Tissue‐Type Plasminogen Activator using a Sequence‐Defined Peptide Aldehyde Library
Authors: Li Choi Yi , de Veer Simon J. , Law Ruby H. P. , Whisstock James C. , Craik David J. , Swedberg Joakim E.
Published: September 2018

Urokinase‐type plasminogen activator (uPA) and tissue‐type plasminogen activator (tPA) are two serine proteases that contribute to initiating fibrinolysis by activating plasminogen. uPA is also an important tumour‐associated protease due to its role in extracellular matrix remodelling. Overexpression of uPA has been identified in several different cancers and uPA inhibition has been reported as a promising therapeutic strategy. Although several peptide‐based uPA inhibitors have been developed, the extent to which uPA tolerates different tetrapeptide sequences that span the P1–P4 positions remains to be thoroughly explored. In this study, we screened a sequence‐defined peptide aldehyde library against uPA and tPA. Preferred sequences from the library screen yielded potent inhibitors for uPA, led by Ac‐GTAR‐H (Ki=18 nm), but not for tPA. Additionally, synthetic peptide substrates corresponding to preferred inhibitor sequences were cleaved with high catalytic efficiency by uPA but not by tPA. These findings provide new insights into the binding specificity of uPA and tPA and the relative activity of tetrapeptide inhibitors and substrates against these enzymes.
Nickel Oxide/Graphene Composites: Synthesis and Applications
Authors: Liu Yushu , Gao Chun , Li Qing , Pang Huan
Published: September 2018

Nickel oxide (NiO) has emerged as one of the most promising transition‐metal oxides (TMOs) for electrochemical capacitors, batteries, catalysis, and electrochromic films, owing to its cost‐effectiveness, abundance, and well‐defined electrochemical properties. Recent studies have identified that mixing NiO with graphene or graphene derivatives results in novel composites with synergistic effects and superior electrochemical performance. This review summarizes the latest advances in composites of NiO with graphene or graphene derivatives. The synthetic strategies, morphologies, and electrochemical performance of these composites are introduced, as well as their electrochemical applications in supercapacitors, batteries, sensors, catalysis, and so forth. Finally, tentative conclusions and assessments regarding the opportunities and challenges for the future development of these composites and other TMOs/graphene or graphene‐derived composites are presented.
Dual‐Carbon‐Confined Fe7S8 Anodes with Enhanced Electrochemical Catalytic Conversion Process for Ultralong Lithium Storage
Authors: Zhang Yu‐Jiao , Chang Wei , Qu Jin , Hao Shu‐Meng , Ji Qiu‐Yu , Jiang Zhi‐Guo , Yu Zhong‐Zhen
Published: September 2018

Although the electrochemical catalytic conversion process is effective in increasing the reversible capacity of lithium‐ion batteries, the low contact efficiency between metal catalyst and substrate and pulverization of the solid electrolyte interface (SEI) film without protection are not beneficial for the electrochemical reactions. Herein, Fe7S8 nanoparticles are confined by both reduced graphene oxide (RGO) and in‐situ‐formed amorphous carbon (C) to form dual‐carbon‐confined Fe7S8 as a lithium‐ion anode. The dual‐carbon‐confined structure provides a confined space to prevent pulverization of the SEI film and increases the local concentration of intermediate phases, which could be electrocatalytically decomposed by Fe nanoparticles formed in situ to increase the reversibility of the electrochemical reactions and gain high reversible capacity. In addition, the dual‐carbon‐confined structure ensures fast transfer of electrons and boosts transport of lithium ions due to the highly conductive dual‐carbon shell. Thus, the Fe7S8/C/RGO anode delivers an excellent rate performance and long cycling stability. At current densities of 2000 and 5000 mA g−1, the reversible capacities are 520 mA h g−1 over 1500 cycles and 294 mA h g−1 over 2000 cycles, respectively.
Nickel Complexes with Non‐innocent Ligands as Highly Active Electrocatalysts for Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Chen Zhixin , Wang Tao , Sun Tingting , Chen Zhiyong , Sheng Tian , Hong Yu‐Hao , Nan Zi‐Ang , Zhu Jun , Zhou Zhi‐You , Xia Haiping , Sun Shi‐Gang
Published: September 2018

Rational design of a molecular catalyst for a hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) with both high rates and low overpotential remains a challenge. Here we report a series of Ni‐based catalysts incorporating non‐innocent ligands and aimed at reduction of the overpotential by reserving electrons in the ligand, which could decouple the correlation between metal center reduction and metal hydride formation. The third‐order rate constant of our catalysts can be increased by 2 orders of magnitude without increase of overpotential by altering the substituents in the imide since the electronic effect of substituents can change the kinetics of metal hydride formation dramatically. Furthermore, constructing a proton shuttle in the ligand further improves the activity. The catalyst with both of these features can catalyze HER at a turnover frequency of 2572 s–1 with low concentrations of acid and an extremely high third‐order rate constant of 2.7×106 M–2·s–1 at a low overpotential.
Switching from ticagrelor to clopidogrel in patients with ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction undergoing successful percutaneous coronary intervention in real‐world China: Occurrences, reasons, and long‐term clinical outcomes
Authors: Li Xin‐Yun , Su Guo‐Hai , Wang Guang‐Xin , Hu Hong‐Yan , Fan Chun‐Jie
Published: September 2018

Background

Although switching between ticagrelor and clopidogrel is common in clinical practice, the efficacy and safety of this de‐escalation remain controversial.

Hypothesis

We assessed the occurrences, reasons, and outcomes of switching from ticagrelor to clopidogrel in patients with ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) undergoing successful primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Methods

A total of 653 patients with STEMI were randomly assigned to receive loading dose of ticagrelor or clopidogrel before PCI and then received maintenance dose, respectively, for 12 months follow‐up. The primary outcome was major adverse cardiac events (MACE), including cardiovascular death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, and stroke. The secondary outcome included unexpected rehospitalization for angina, coronary revascularization, and stent thrombosis. The safety outcome was bleeding described by the Bleeding Academic Research Consortium (BARC) criteria.

Results

A total of 602 participants completed the study. The rate of switching from ticagrelor to clopidogrel was 48.6% and the main reason was financial burden. The rate of secondary ischemic events in the de‐escalation group was higher than that in the ticagrelor group (15.1% vs 5.6%, P = 0.008), but lower than that in the clopidogrel group (15.1% vs 24.6%, P = 0.03), while there were no significant differences in MACE among the three groups (P = 0.16). De‐escalation, ticagrelor, and clopidogrel did not cause significant differences in the rates of major bleeding among the three groups (BARC ≥ 2, P = 0.34).

Conclusion

Switching from ticagrelor to clopidogrel is very common in patients with STEMI in China. De‐escalation might be safe but associated with high risk of ischemic events as compared to ticagrelor.
Somatotopic organization of central arbors from nociceptive afferents develops independently of their intact peripheral target innervation
Authors: Olson William , Luo Wenqin
Published: September 2018

Functionally important regions of sensory maps are overrepresented in the sensory pathways and cortex, but the underlying developmental mechanisms are not clear. In the spinal cord dorsal horn (DH), we recently showed that paw innervating Mrgprd+ nonpeptidergic nociceptors display distinctive central arbor morphologies that well correlate with increased synapse transmission efficiency and heightened sensitivity of distal limb skin. Given that peripheral and central arbor formation of Mrgprd+ neurons co‐occurs around the time of birth, we tested whether peripheral cues from different skin areas and/or postnatal reorganization mechanisms could instruct this somatotopic difference among central arbors. We found that, while terminal outgrowth/refinement occurs during early postnatal development in both the skin and the DH, postnatal refinement of central terminals precedes that of peripheral terminals. Furthermore, we used single‐cell ablation of Ret to genetically disrupt epidermal innervation of Mrgprd+ neurons and revealed that the somatotopic difference among their central arbors was unaffected by this manipulation. Finally, we saw that region‐specific Mrgprd+ central terminal arbors are present from the earliest postnatal stages, before skin terminals are evident. In summary, we find that region‐specific organization of Mrgprd+ neuron central arbors is present shortly after initial central terminal formation, which likely develops independently of peripheral target innervation. Our data suggest that either cell‐intrinsic and/or DH prepatterning mechanisms are likely to establish this somatotopic difference.
Parallel generated method of transcriptional regulatory networks
Authors: Liu Shuai , Ta Na , Lu Mengye , Liu Gaocheng , Bai Weiling , Li Wenhui
Published: September 2018

Generated method of transcriptional regulatory networks remains an important research in biology. Many approaches have been proposed to construct transcriptional regulatory networks. However, with the increase of ChIP‐seq and RNA‐seq data, the speed of constructing transcriptional regulation networks is still a challenge. Moreover, parallel computing lacks application in constructing gene regulatory networks through the analysis of the relationships between transcription factors (TFs) and target genes (TGs). Therefore, in this paper, a parallel generated method of transcriptional regulatory networks was proposed. First, two datasets, Michigan Cancer Foundation – 7 (MCF‐7) and Cardiomyocytes (CM) were applied. Then, a parallel method was used to generate transcriptional regulatory network with their transcription factors (TFs) and target genes (TGs). Finally, experimental results showed that 61% regulatory relations in MCF‐7 were validated in the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), while 29% results needed further experimental verification. Besides, 56% regulatory relations in CM were consistent with GEO, while 33% results were not yet verified. Furthermore, speed of parallel algorithm was faster than traditional serial algorithm in generating transcriptional regulatory networks.
Electromagnetic Emission from Impact‐Loaded Polycrystalline A2B6 Materials
Authors: Chmel Alexandre , Dunaev Anatolij , Shcherbakov Igor
Published: September 2018

The electromagnetic emission (EME) from deformed ionic single crystals occurs due to the motion of charged dislocations. Observations of the EME from polycrystalline ductile materials have never been reported. Meanwhile, the boundaries between crystallites play the role of the natural barriers for sliding dislocations; therefore, one can expect that the character and degree of heterogeneity might affect substantially the manifestation of the EME excitation. This study presents results of the observation of the EME excited by the impact loading of ductile ionic‐covalent A2B6 ceramics. Continuous emission in the range of 10–100 kHz manifests itself in ZnS, ZnSe, and ZnTe compounds. This low‐frequency EME is supplemented with sporadic peaks emitted in the megahertz range. The continuous EME is ascribed by the motion of dislocations in crystallites, while the discrete high‐frequency emission is suggested to be due to discharges between edges of cracks nucleated at the final stage of the damage formation. The intercomparison of the EME time sweeps with the records of the mechanoluminescence and acoustic emission detected in parallel with the EME shows that the primary plastic deformation in the polycrystalline A2B6 compounds is followed by the accumulation of microcracks.
Flux Synthesis, Monoclinic Structure, and Luminescence of Europium(III)‐Doped K3La(PO4)2
Authors: Terebilenko Kateryna V. , Kyselov Dmitryi V. , Baumer Vyacheslav N. , Slobodyanik Mykola S. , Petrenko Olga V. , Khomenko Olena V. , Dotsenko Volodymir P.
Published: September 2018

Single crystals of potassium lanthanum orthophosphate are prepared from high‐temperature melts containing potassium molybdate as a flux and structurally investigated by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. The framework is shown to be constructed from isolated LaO7 monocapped prisms and PO4 tetrahedra through corner‐ and edge‐sharing giving rise to 2D sheets with composition [La(PO4)2]3−. Three types of potassium cations reside between these layers. For the solid solutions K3La1−xEux(PO4)2 (x = 0.1–0.9) prepared by the solid‐state route, the excitation and emission luminescence spectra are studied at room temperature. The emission spectra exhibit strong reddish performance, which is due to the 5D0→7FJ transitions of Eu3+ ions. The correlation between the structure and the photoluminescent properties of the phosphors is studied. The energy transfer and concentration quenching of the phosphors are discussed. Solid solutions K3La1−xEux(PO4)2 have a potential application for white‐light‐emitting diodes.
SamplEase: a simple application for collection and organization of biological specimen data in the field
Authors: Alhaddad Hasan , Alhajeri Bader H.
Published: September 2018

Careful collection and organization of biological specimens and their associated data are at the core of field research (e.g., ecology, genetics). Fieldwork data are often collected by handwriting or unsystematically via an electronic device (e.g., laptop), a process that is time‐intensive, disorganized, and may lead to transcription errors, as data are copied to a more permanent repository. SamplEase is an iOS and Android application that is designed to ease the process of collecting biological specimen data in the field (data associated with biological samples, such as location, age, and sex). In addition to biological specimen data, SamplEase allows for the assignment of photographs to each collected sample, which provides visual records of each specimen in its environment. SamplEase outputs biological specimen data in a tabular format, facilitating subsequent analyses and dissemination. Despite the simplicity of SamplEase, no similar data management application is readily available for researchers.
Snapshot of higher education trends
Authors: Dennis Marguerite J.
Published: September 2018

This article is somewhat different from what I usually write, but I think the following facts and trends will interest enrollment managers, directors of communication and marketing, and international deans and recruiters.
Increase student persistence with earlier alerts
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: September 2018

DALLAS — Early alert programs have helped officials at many colleges and universities identify students who are struggling before their problems reach a crisis point. But what if you could identify risk factors that could impact students' performance before they even start classes?
Build supportive graduating classes through cross‐genre events, diverse backgrounds
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: September 2018

Nico Rosario was drawn to working at the Otis College of Art and Design because of her own artistic background — in her spare time, Rosario is a talented photographer. “I thought it would be a really inspiring place to work, both personally and professionally, to be surrounded with all these young talented artists,” Rosario said.
Body uneasiness is associated with food addiction symptoms: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Imperatori Claudio , Innamorati Marco , Lamis Dorian A. , Farina Benedetto , Fabbricatore Mariantonietta , Contardi Anna
Published: September 2018

The main aim of the present study was to investigate the association between food addiction (FA) symptoms and body uneasiness in a nonclinical sample, while controlling for potential confounding variables. Participants (N = 395; 123 men) were administered self‐report measures assessing FA, binge eating severity, body uneasiness, depressive symptoms, emotion dysregulation and socio‐demographic variables. Body uneasiness was independently associated with FA symptoms (standardized beta coefficients ranging between 0.41 [p < 0.001] and 0.22 [p < 0.001]), even when controlling for the presence of other variables. This finding suggests that body uneasiness may be a crucial symptom in the development and/or maintenance of FA symptoms.