bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel opioid detoxification using loperamide and P‐glycoprotein inhibitor
Authors: Garhy Mohamed Al , Williams Jennifer Jean , Mohan Sona , Sharib Hana Abu
Published: November 2019

Opioids were responsible for 76% of substancerelated death in 2015 and only one in six people received effective treatment for their substance use disorder globally due to unavailability of services in 2016. Here, Al Garhy et al. describe the characteristics of inpatients receiving loperamide with a P‐glycoprotein inhibitor for medically‐supported detoxification at Sheikh Khalifa Medical City Hospital and provide preliminary evidence that loperamide and omeprazole, two inexpensive over‐the‐counter medications, can effectively and safely reduce the full spectrum of opioid withdrawal manifestations in male patients.
Towards a generic method for ion chromatography/mass spectrometry of low‐molecular‐weight amines in pharmaceutical drug discovery and development
Authors: Lewis Zoe , Jackson Bethany A. , Crampton Alex , Ray Andrew D. , Holman Stephen W.
Published: November 2019

Rationale

Low‐molecular‐weight amines are encountered in pharmaceutical analysis, e.g. as reactants in chemical syntheses, but are challenging to analyse using ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (UHPLC/MS) due to their high polarity causing poor retention. Ion chromatography/mass spectrometry (IC/MS) is an emerging technique for polar molecule analysis that offers better separation. A generic IC/MS method would overcome problems associated with using UHPLC/MS in drug discovery and development environments.

Methods

Amine standards were analysed using IC/MS with gradient elution (variety of column temperatures evaluated). An electrospray ionisation (ESI) quadrupole mass spectrometer was operated in positive ion polarity in scanning mode. The make‐up flow composition was evaluated by assessing the performance of a range of organic modifiers (acetonitrile, ethanol, methanol) and additives (acetic acid, formic acid, methanesulfonic acid). The ESI conditions were optimised to minimise adduct formation and promote generation of protonated molecules.

Results

The performance attributes were investigated and optimised for low‐molecular‐weight amine analysis. Organic solvents and acidic additives were evaluated as make‐up flow components to promote ESI, with 0.05% acetic acid in ethanol optimal for producing protonated molecules. The hydrogen bonding capability of amines led to abundant protonated molecule–solvent complexes; optimisation of source conditions reduced these, with collision‐induced dissociation voltage having a strong effect. The detection limit was ≤1.78 ng for the amines analysed, which is fit‐for‐purpose for an open‐access chemistry environment.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates the value of IC/MS for analysing low‐molecular‐weight amines. Good chromatographic separation of mixtures was possible without derivatisation. Ionisation efficiency was greatest using a make‐up flow of 0.05% acetic acid in ethanol, and optimisation of ESI source conditions promoted protonated molecule generation for easy determination of molecular weight.
High‐dimensional regression with ordered multiple categorical predictors
Authors: Huang Lei , Hang Weiqiang , Chao Yue
Published: November 2019

Models for the ordered multiple categorical (OMC) response variable have already been extensively established and widely applied, but few studies have investigated linear regression problems with OMC predictors, especially in high‐dimensional situations. In such settings, the pseudocategories of the discrete variable and other irrelevant explanatory variables need to be automatically selected. This paper introduces a transformation method of dummy variables for such OMC predictors, anL1penalty regression method is proposed based on the transformation. Model selection consistency of the proposed method is derived under some common assumptions for high‐dimensional situation. Both simulation studies and real data analysis present good performance of this method, showing its wide applicability in relevant regression analysis.
Thermal Hydrogenation and Degradation of Quinoline from Reactive Force Field Simulations
Authors: Naik Papu Kumar , Paul Sandip , Banerjee Tamal
Published: November 2019

Catalytic hydrogenation is a convenient approach for converting Poly Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAH) to several small fragments or useful chemicals. In the current study, quinoline is taken as model PAH compound where reactive force field (ReaxFF) simulation is adopted to study its degradation and pyrolytic behavior. To confirm the intermediate and final products, ReaxFF molecular dynamics (MD) simulations at five different temperatures ranging from 2500–4500 K for a total duration of 700 ps were implemented which allows the chemical reactions to be observed at a computationally affordable time scale. Other than 2500 K, all the temperatures provided a pyrolysis scan on the entire quinolone molecule. We have found a qualitative agreement between the previously reported experimental results and our simulation results concerning initiation step of the quinoline hydrogenation along with the formation of major intermediate products such as tetrahydroquinoline (THQ), propylaniline (PA) and decahydroquinoline (DHQ). Further degradation of quinoline with time gives smaller stable products, which include ammonia, ethylene, methane, ethane and acetylene with many intermediates. Most of the intermediate reactions are found to be intramolecular while intermolecular reactions dominate at higher temperatures. Finally, a kinetic analysis was made to obtain the rate constants and activation energies for quinoline hydrogenation.
Laser‐Processed Perovskite Solar Cells and Modules
Authors: Palma Alessandro L.
Published: November 2019

In the last decade, hybrid organic–inorganic perovskite‐based solar cells (PSCs) have shown an impressive rate of growth in performance, reaching power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) comparable with the ones exhibited by crystalline silicon devices. Recently, perovskite‐based solar modules (PSMs) have been developed, showing a similar pace in the progress of the reported PCE. Nevertheless, scaling up the dimensions of devices is not a trivial process. To this effect, different deposition and manufacturing techniques have to be implemented. Laser apparatuses have been demonstrated to be fundamental in the production of PSMs, due to the extreme precision needed for manufacturing processes. Herein, an overview of the recent progresses in the application of laser systems in the production of perovskite‐based solar devices is provided. In particular, lasers are used in small‐area PSCs to realize pulsed laser deposition procedures for the realization of perovskite layers and novel electrodes. In the field of PSMs, lasers have boosted the exploitation of substrates, minimizing the dimension of interconnection areas between the cells that form a module and providing the necessary accuracy, repeatability, and level of automation needed for the future industrialization of perovskite‐based solar technology.
Effect of geogrid reinforcement on the drying shrinkage and thermal expansion of geopolymer concrete
Authors: Al‐Hedad Abbas S. A. , Farhan Nabeel A. , Zhang Mengying , Sheikh M. Neaz , Hadi Muhammad N. S.
Published: November 2019

The effect of triaxial geogrid reinforcement on the thermal expansion and drying shrinkage of geopolymer concrete (GPC) was experimentally investigated. Three groups of GPC prism specimens with a length of 280 mm and a cross‐section of 75 mm × 75 mm were prepared and tested in this study. The first group included six unreinforced GPC specimens and was considered as the control group of specimens. The second group included six GPC specimens reinforced with one layer of geogrid. The third group included six GPC specimens reinforced with two layers of geogrid. The triaxial geogrid reinforcement was placed at a depth of 37.5 mm from the surface of the specimen. The tests were carried out by drying the GPC specimens in a controlled environmental chamber at a temperature of 27 ± 4°C and a relative humidity of 50 ± 10% for 98 days. It was found that the geogrid significantly reduced the thermal expansion and drying shrinkage of GPC specimens. The thermal expansion and drying shrinkage were less in the GPC specimens reinforced with two layers of geogrid compared to the GPC specimens reinforced with one layer of geogrid. It was also found that the rate of thermal expansion and drying shrinkage of the GPC specimens reinforced with geogrid was lower than that of the control unreinforced GPC specimens.
Field test and emergency reinforcement evaluation for an ancient wood pagoda
Authors: Zhang Guowei , Sun Zuoshuai , Ding Mengting , Zhao Ziwei , Gao Yuchun
Published: November 2019

Ancient wood pagodas, as the excellent representative of ancient China, play an important role in Chinese historical, art, and scientific aspects. Because most pagodas are lacking maintenance for a long time and the long term reinforcement measure has not been determined, it is necessary to carry out an emergency reinforcement method to avoid further damage. This paper presents a design guideline of emergency reinforcement method for ancient wood pagodas. Field tests based on pulsating method were carried out to identify the dynamic characteristics, structural stiffness, and structural damages. The modal frequency, modal shape of different columns and stiffness of each story indicate that the second apparent story is the weak point of the whole structure. To effectively analyze the nonlinear performance of the second apparent story and verify the superiority of the emergency reinforcement method, three elaborated finite element models of the second apparent story in undamaged, and current and reinforced states are established. The buckling analysis shows that the emergency reinforcement method could improve the critical load 89% nearby compared with the current structure. In addition, the seismic analysis proves that the emergency reinforcement method has positive effects on strengthening the weak point to against the earthquakes.
What Makes a City Accessible and Inclusive?
Authors: Pineda Victor Santiago
Published: November 2019

The urban-focused Capability Model of Disability (CMD) presented here outlines three key features for city and urban planning processes: rethinking the relationship between people with disabilities and their environment, a development-based framework for inclusive policymaking along nine policy dimensions, and the concept of salience to measure cultural coherence and likelihood for a society to adopt international human rights norms at the local level. The CMD framework is applied to a set of nine basic primary goods necessary for inclusive urban planning and policymaking, which are divided into basic functionings (health, rehabilitation, education, and employment) and basic freedoms (mobility, accessibility, being included in the community, political and public participation, and awareness raising). This chapter provides insights into what this integrated model looks like and how it addresses endemic challenges that impede full implementation of comprehensive rights, policies, and norms across sectors and scales.
Correlation function of modular Hamiltonians
Authors: Long Jiang
Published: November 2019

Abstract

We investigate varies correlation functions of modular Hamiltonians defined with respect to spatial regions in quantum field theory. These correlation functions are divergent in general. We extract finite correlators by removing divergent terms for two dimensional massless free scalar theory. We reproduce the same correlators in general two dimensional conformal field theories.
Potential impact of reduced tobacco use on life and health expectancies in Belgium
Authors: Otavova Martina , Van Oyen Herman , Yokota Renata T. C. , Charafeddine Rana , Joossens Luk , Molenberghs Geert , Nusselder Wilma J. , Boshuizen Hendriek C. , Devleesschauwer Brecht
Published: November 2019

Objectives

We investigated the potential impact of reduced tobacco use scenarios on total life expectancy and health expectancies, i.e., healthy life years and unhealthy life years.

Methods

Data from the Belgian Health Interview Survey 2013 were used to estimate smoking and disability prevalence. Disability was based on the Global Activity Limitation Indicator. We used DYNAMO-HIA to quantify the impacts of risk factor changes and to compare the “business-as-usual” with alternative scenarios.

Results

The “business-as-usual” scenario estimated that in 2028 the 15-year-old men/women would live additional 50/52 years without disability and 14/17 years with disability. The “smoking-free population” scenario added 3.4/2.8 healthy life years and reduced unhealthy life years by 0.79/1.9. Scenarios combining the prevention of smoking initiation with smoking cessation programs are the most effective, yielding the largest increase in healthy life years (1.9/1.7) and the largest decrease in unhealthy life years (− 0.80/− 1.47).

Conclusions

Health impact assessment tools provide different scenarios for evidence-informed public health actions. New anti-smoking strategies or stricter enforcement of existing policies potentially gain more healthy life years and reduce unhealthy life years in Belgium.
Standardised evaluation of the electric field for meeting safety aspects for workers according to directive 2013/35/EU and VEMF
Authors: Friedl Katrin , Abart Andreas , Schürhuber Robert , Schmautzer Ernst
Published: November 2019

Workers in power supply systems are exposed to electromagnetic fields. These fields must not exceed the limit values set out in EU Directive 2013/35/EU (minimum health and safety requirements for workers with regard to exposure to the risk of physical agents (electromagnetic fields)) in order to protect workers against health risks. In Austria, a group of experts from the National Standardization Committee (OVE) has drawn up a national guideline (OVE guideline R 27) in order to prevent the diversity of assessment procedures. In addition, the guide aims to reduce time and effort in evaluation and documentation of electric and magnetic fields. This article provides an overview of the procedure and an assessment of the evaluated distances determined in accordance with OVE guideline R 27 for the protection of workers with regard to electric fields in substations.
Network architecture strongly influences the fluid flow pattern through the lacunocanalicular network in human osteons
Authors: van Tol Alexander F. , Roschger A. , Repp F. , Chen J. , Roschger P. , Berzlanovich A. , Gruber G. M. , Fratzl P. , Weinkamer Richard
Published: November 2019

A popular hypothesis explains the mechanosensitivity of bone due to osteocytes sensing the load-induced flow of interstitial fluid squeezed through the lacunocanalicular network (LCN). However, the way in which the intricate structure of the LCN influences fluid flow through the network is largely unexplored. We therefore aimed to quantify fluid flow through real LCNs from human osteons using a combination of experimental and computational techniques. Bone samples were stained with rhodamine to image the LCN with 3D confocal microscopy. Image analysis was then performed to convert image stacks into mathematical network structures, in order to estimate the intrinsic permeability of the osteons as well as the load-induced fluid flow using hydraulic circuit theory. Fluid flow was studied in both ordinary osteons with a rather homogeneous LCN as well as a frequent subtype of osteons—so-called osteon-in-osteons—which are characterized by a ring-like zone of low network connectivity between the inner and the outer parts of these osteons. We analyzed 8 ordinary osteons and 9 osteon-in-osteons from the femur midshaft of a 57-year-old woman without any known disease. While the intrinsic permeability was 2.7 times smaller in osteon-in-osteons compared to ordinary osteons, the load-induced fluid velocity was 2.3 times higher. This increased fluid velocity in osteon-in-osteons can be explained by the longer path length, needed to cross the osteon from the cement line to the Haversian canal, including more fluid-filled lacunae and canaliculi. This explanation was corroborated by the observation that a purely structural parameter—the mean path length to the Haversian canal—is an excellent predictor for the average fluid flow velocity. We conclude that osteon-in-osteons may be particularly significant contributors to the mechanosensitivity of cortical bone, due to the higher fluid flow in this type of osteons.
Secondary Traumatic Stress in Foster Carers: Risk Factors and Implications for Intervention
Authors: Bridger Kay M. , Binder Jens F. , Kellezi Blerina
Published: November 2019

Objectives

Fostering, a professional or semi-professional role that is in increasing demand, involves potential exposure to material related to children’s trauma in a domestic setting. Yet, professional vulnerability to secondary traumatic stress (STS) is under-researched in foster carers, as is the suitability of associated intervention techniques. We therefore investigated incidence of STS and psychological predictors relevant to secondary and primary stress appraisal in UK foster carers.

Methods

British foster carers (n = 187; 81% female; aged 23–72 years; mean length of experience 9 years) were approached through a range of organizations managing paid foster caring in the UK for a survey study. Self-report measures were obtained on STS, burnout and compassion satisfaction from the Professional Quality of Life (ProQOL) scale, as well as on primary trauma and variables previously recommended for inclusion in training targeting secondary trauma: empathy, resilience and self-care.

Results

High levels of STS and burnout were found among foster carers. In multivariate model testing, STS was directly and positively predicted by burnout, compassion satisfaction and primary trauma (R2 = 0.54, p < 0.001). Resilience, empathy and self-care did not show direct associations with STS, but self-care had a significant indirect effect on STS.

Conclusions

Findings support the view that STS is a substantial risk factor in foster caring. While self-care is confirmed as a promising factor in intervention, the roles of empathy and resilience are more ambiguous.
Effects of Vocational Re-training on Employment Outcomes Among Persons with Disabilities in Germany: A Quasi-Experiment
Authors: Echarti Nicolas , Schüring Esther , O’Donoghue Cathal
Published: November 2019

Purpose To investigate how completing vocational re-training influenced income and employment days of working-age people with disabilities in the first 8 years after program admission. The investigation also included the influence of vocational re-training on the likelihood of receiving an earnings incapacity pension and on social security benefit receipt. Methods This retrospective cohort study with 8 years follow up was based on data from 2399 individuals who had completed either a 1-year vocational re-training program (n = 278), or a 2-year vocational re-training program (n = 1754) or who were admitted into re-training but never completed the program (n = 367). A propensity score-based method was used to account for observed differences and establish comparability between program graduates and program dropouts. Changes in outcomes were examined using the inverse probability-weighted regression adjustment method. Results After controlling for other factors, over the 8 years after program admission, graduates of 1-year re-training, on average, were employed for an additional 405 days, 95% CI [249 days, 561 days], and had earned €24,260 more than without completed re-training, 95% CI [€12,805, €35,715]. Two-year program completers, on average, were employed for 441 additional days, 95% CI [349 days, 534 days], and had earned €35,972 more than without completed re-training, 95% CI [€27,743, €44,202]. The programs also significantly reduced the number of days on social-security and unemployment benefits and lowered the likelihood of an earnings incapacity pension. Conclusion Policies to promote the labor market re-integration of persons with disabilities should consider that vocational re-training may be an effective tool for sustainably improving work participation outcomes.
Fascination du simulacre
Authors: Gergye László
Published: November 2019

Par l’analyse de l’œuvre d’Andersen intitulée Skyggen, cet article cherche à illustrer la transformation radicale des éléments de technique narrative des contes au sens traditionnel et du Bildungsroman. Sur l’analogie des récits type Doppelgänger du romantisme allemand, ce n’est pas que le rapport differencié de l’original et de la copie qui se dégage dans cette histoire, mais l’auteur fait aussi un tableau précis du remodelage des principles essentiels de l’esthétique romantique de la poésie. L’ancien idéal de la kalokagathia qui dérive de l’Antiquité s’anéantit, la trichotomie conceptuelle du beau, du bon et du vrai se désintègre et se voit remplacer par une attirance évidente au démoniaque, au subconscient et à l’amoral dans la pratique « artistique » de l’Ombre. À travers la créativité de la copie devenue indépendante, l’écriture, qui s’avère complètement inefficace dans la main du Savant, se renforce pour devenir un véritable facteur social—par la genre catalyseur du commérage—, faisant ainsi un pied de nez à la culture romantique fondamentalament basée sur l’oralité.
Branding higher education: an exploration of the role of internal branding on middle management in a university rebrand
Authors: Clark Paul , Chapleo Chris , Suomi Kati
Published: November 2019

Although research on branding in higher education has grown, a specific focus on internal branding in this sector is still scarce. Brand support by mid-level administrative staff and deans is a key element in internal branding of a university. This study explores the extent to which internal branding contributes to this group’s understanding of and engagement with a public institution’s rebranding campaign. It identifies challenges and practice insights for practice for internal branding activities when engaging these internal stakeholders, linking to wider brand management theory and practice. A qualitative case study approach was employed to understand the effectiveness of internal branding holistically, and in context. In 2016, nineteen depth interviews were conducted with a range of mid-level administrators and deans including those at the student union, regional campuses, directors of departments, and deans of faculties and schools at a large Canadian university. The data was analysed using Nvivo qualitative data analysis software. On the basis of the results, it is apparent that internal branding has a valuable role in relation to higher education brand management strategy. Results offer a holistic view of the rebranding process, and explore understanding of and engagement with the rebranding campaign. This paper addresses a gap in the public sector brand management literature and demonstrates theoretical and practical implications for improved understanding and brand management strategy.
Policy Monitoring in the EU: The Impact of Institutions, Implementation, and Quality
Authors: Schoenefeld Jonas J. , Schulze Kai , Hildén Mikael , Jordan Andrew J.
Published: November 2019

Policy monitoring is often seen as a crucial ingredient of policy evaluation, but theoretically informed empirical analyses of real-world policy monitoring practices are still rare. This paper addresses this gap by focusing on climate policy monitoring in the European Union, which has a relatively stringent system of greenhouse gas monitoring but a much less demanding approach to monitoring policies. It explores how institutional settings, policy implementation, and the quality of information may impact the practices and politics of policy monitoring. Drawing on quantitative regression models and qualitative interviews, it demonstrates that policy monitoring has evolved over time and is itself subject to implementation pressures, but also exhibits learning effects that improve its quality. In further developing both everyday policy monitoring practices and academic understanding of them, there is a need to pay attention to their design—specifically, the impact of any overarching rules, the institutional support for implementation, and the criteria governing the quality of the information they deliver. In short, policy monitoring should be treated as a governance activity in its own right, raising many different design challenges.
Dynamic capabilities triggered by cloud sourcing: a stage-based model of business model innovation
Authors: Muhic Mirella , Bengtsson Lars
Published: November 2019

Current research offers very limited insights on the process of how the adoption and continued use of cloud sourcing might trigger and push the development of business model innovation and affect the competitive advantage of a firm. Applying an abductive approach, with two longitudinal case studies of cloud sourcing firms, and a theoretical framework based on stage-based models of business model innovation and the dynamic capability view of the firm, we develop a model of stage-based business model innovation related to the adoption and continued use of cloud sourcing. The model identifies three business model innovation stages characterized by specific types of capabilities. In between the three stages, we identify three dynamic junctures that the firm and its managers have to overcome to progress from one stage to another. In the dynamic junctures three types of dynamic capabilities were key; sensing, seizing and transformation capabilities, to pass to the next stage. The model contributes to a better understanding of the evolution of dynamic capabilities as well as the evolution of the cloud sourcing firm and cloud-based business model innovation.
‘Even though I Am Blind, I Am Still Human!’: the Neglect of Adolescents with Disabilities’ Human Rights in Conflict-Affected Contexts
Authors: Presler-Marshall Elizabeth , Jones Nicola , Odeh Kifah Bani
Published: November 2019

Drawing on qualitative research undertaken with adolescents with disabilities from refugee and host communities in Jordan and the State of Palestine, this article critically interrogates the framing of child neglect, which to date has situated the state as a protector rather than a perpetrator, the narrow understanding of adolescent needs and the responsibility of international actors for ensuring that the full range of human rights of adolescents with disabilities is supported. We frame our findings on adolescent neglect through a multidimensional capabilities lens and argue that although both adolescence as a distinct lifecycle stage and the rights of persons with disabilities have moved up the development agenda, adolescents with disabilities remain largely invisible, and especially so in conflict-affected contexts. Our findings highlight that adolescents with disabilities have limited access to schooling, skills building for economic empowerment and healthcare, due to accessibility challenges, cost and highly limited specialist provisioning. Moreover, adolescents with disabilities also have very little access to psychosocial support or opportunities to develop the independence which is a hallmark of adolescence and critical for successful transitions into early adulthood. Rather than working to meet those needs, the government and UN agencies tasked with provisioning in conflict-affected areas continue to miss opportunities to link young people with disabilities to existent services and tend to rely on NGOs to deliver small-scale, time-bound programming rather than assuming responsibility for appropriate programming at scale.
Brain Metabolic Alterations in Rats Showing Depression-Like and Obesity Phenotypes
Authors: Głombik Katarzyna , Detka Jan , Góralska Joanna , Kurek Anna , Solnica Bogdan , Budziszewska Bogusława
Published: November 2019

Current data suggest an important role of brain metabolic disturbances in the pathogenesis of depression and obesity, diseases that frequently co-occur. Our aim was to determine whether there are changes in markers characterizing glucose metabolism in prenatal stress (PS; animal model of depression), in rats fed a high-fat diet (HFD), and especially in the model of depression and obesity co-occurrence. The changes in glucose-6-phosphate, glycogen, glucose transporters (GLUT1, GLUT4), glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R), and mitochondrial complexes levels in the frontal cortex and/or hippocampus were observed. In the case of the coexistence of depression and obesity, the most important changes were (1) the decrease in the membrane form of GLUT4, which may suggest weaker insulin action in the frontal cortex, and (2) the diminished GLP-1R, which could cause neurodegenerative changes in the hippocampus. However, presented results suggested that HFD weakened the PS effect of uncoupling oxidative phosphorylation in the frontal cortex.
Adaptive aiding with an individualized workload model based on psychophysiological measures
Authors: Teo Grace , Matthews Gerald , Reinerman-Jones Lauren , Barber Daniel
Published: November 2019

Potential benefits of technology such as automation are oftentimes negated by improper use and application. Adaptive systems provide a means to calibrate the use of technological aids to the operator’s state, such as workload state, which can change throughout the course of a task. Such systems require a workload model which detects workload and specifies the level at which aid should be rendered. Workload models that use psychophysiological measures have the advantage of detecting workload continuously and relatively unobtrusively, although the inter-individual variability in psychophysiological responses to workload is a major challenge for many models. This study describes an approach to workload modeling with multiple psychophysiological measures that was generalizable across individuals, and yet accommodated inter-individual variability. Under this approach, several novel algorithms were formulated. Each of these underwent a process of evaluation which included comparisons of the algorithm’s performance to an at-chance level, and assessment of algorithm robustness. Further evaluations involved the sensitivity of the shortlisted algorithms at various threshold values for triggering an adaptive aid.
Identification of Cognitive Dysfunction in Patients with T2DM Using Whole Brain Functional Connectivity
Authors: Liu Zhenyu , Liu Jiangang , Yuan Huijuan , Liu Taiyuan , Cui Xingwei , Tang Zhenchao , Du Yang , Wang Meiyun , Lin Yusong , Tian Jie
Published: November 2019

Majority of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients are highly susceptible to several forms of cognitive impairments, particularly dementia. However, the underlying neural mechanism of these cognitive impairments remains unclear. We aimed to investigate the correlation between whole brain resting state functional connections (RSFCs) and the cognitive status in 95 patients with T2DM. We constructed an elastic net model to estimate the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) scores, which served as an index of the cognitive status of the patients, and to select the RSFCs for further prediction. Subsequently, we utilized a machine learning technique to evaluate the discriminative ability of the connectivity pattern associated with the selected RSFCs. The estimated and chronological MoCA scores were significantly correlated with R = 0.81 and the mean absolute error (MAE) = 1.20. Additionally, cognitive impairments of patients with T2DM can be identified using the RSFC pattern with classification accuracy of 90.54% and the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC) of 0.9737. This connectivity pattern not only included the connections between regions within the default mode network (DMN), but also the functional connectivity between the task-positive networks and the DMN, as well as those within the task-positive networks. The results suggest that an RSFC pattern could be regarded as a potential biomarker to identify the cognitive status of patients with T2DM.
Neuropsychological decline up to 20 years before incident mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Caselli Richard J. , Langlais Blake T. , Dueck Amylou C. , Chen Yinghua , Su Yi , Locke Dona E. C. , Woodruff Bryan K. , Reiman Eric M.
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Some Alzheimer's disease biomarker studies found amyloid changes 20 years or more in advance of expected symptoms, while cognitive changes lagged for more than a decade, but this apparent lag might reflect the sensitivities of the biomarker and cognitive assays used. How far in advance of incident amnestic mild cognitive impairment (MCI) does cognition begin to decline?

Methods

Longitudinal neuropsychological study of an apolipoprotein E e4 enriched cohort of cognitively normal individuals at entry. Linear mixed models for MCI converters (n = 65) and nonconverters (n = 719) fitted for each neuropsychological measure; annual changes compared between groups before and after linear model intersections (inflection points).

Results

34 of 35 cognitive measures and 9 of 18 behavioral measures declined faster post‐inflection in the MCI converters; the earliest cognitive inflection point was nearly 20 years in advance of MCI diagnosis.

Discussion

The preclinical duration of cognitive and behavioral changes approaches the earliest reported biomarker changes.
Comparing numerical ice-sheet model output with radio-echo sounding measurements in the Weddell Sea sector of West Antarctica
Authors: Jeofry Hafeez , Ross Neil , Siegert Martin J.
Published: November 2019

Numerical ice-sheet models are commonly matched to surface ice velocities from InSAR measurements by modifying basal drag, allowing the flow and form of the ice sheet to be simulated. Geophysical measurements of the bed are rarely used to examine if this modification is realistic, however. Here, we examine radio-echo sounding (RES) data from the Weddell Sea sector of West Antarctica to investigate how the output from a well-established ice-sheet model compares with measurements of the basal environment. We know the Weddell Sea sector contains the Institute, Möller and Foundation ice streams, each with distinct basal characteristics: Institute Ice Stream lies partly over wet unconsolidated sediments, where basal drag is very low; Möller Ice Stream lies on relatively rough bed, where basal drag is likely larger; and Foundation Ice Stream is controlled by a deep subglacial trough with flow-aligned bedrock landforms and smooth unconsolidated sediments. In general, the ice-sheet model represents each ice-stream system well. We also find that ice velocities do not match perfectly in some locations, and that adjustment of the boundaries of low basal drag, to reflect RES evidence, should improve model performance. Our work showcases the usefulness of RES in calibrating ice-sheet model results with observations of the bed.
Understanding EU Solidarity and Migration in Crisis: Narratives of Health as Tools of Governance
Authors: DICKSON Rachael
Published: November 2019

The so-called European migration crisis has sparked significant attention from scholars and raises questions about the role of solidarity between states and the European Union (EU) in providing policy solutions. Tension exists between upholding the rights of those seeking entry and pooling resources between Member States to provide a fair and efficient migration system. This article deconstructs the shifts that have occurred in EU migration policy since 2015 to highlight how narratives of health have become tools of governance. It does so to illuminate how health narratives operate to minimise the impact that conflicts on the nature and substance of EU solidarity have on policy development in response to the perceived crisis. A governmentality lens is used to analyse the implications of increasingly prescribed policy applications based on screening and categorising, and how measures operate to responsibilise migrants and third-countries to act according to EU values. It is argued this approach to governance results in migrants facing legal uncertainty in terms of accessing their rights and excludes them from the EU political space, which is problematic for how EU governance can be understood.
Novel Method of Extraction for Radiocarbon Measurements of Atmospheric Carbon dioxide
Authors: Pugsley K L , Knowles T D J , O’Doherty S
Published: November 2019

In this paper, we present the first data from an alternative extraction method for atmospheric14CO2analysis, based on the direct trapping of whole air samples onto a molecular sieve zeolite (13X) trap, incorporated into a commercially available automated graphitization system. Results are presented for both inter-laboratory comparison samples and an in-house reference standard. The in-house reference was used to calculate the standard deviation of measurements (2.0‰). This newly developed method will facilitate faster sample processing and therefore lower cost per analysis, critical for scaling up such studies.
Soft tissue head and neck sarcoma: experience of a tertiary referral centre over a 15-year period
Authors: Harrison L , McCulloch T , Beasley N
Published: November 2019

Background

Head and neck soft tissue sarcoma is uncommon. It is both histologically and clinically heterogeneous, ranging from an indolent, locally destructive tumour, to a locally aggressive neoplasm with metastatic potential.

Methods

A retrospective review was conducted of all adult head and neck soft tissue sarcomas, including cases of malignant soft tissue sarcoma and all intermediate type tumours, diagnosed between 1997 and 2012.

Results

Sixty-eight cases were identified in this series from the sarcoma multidisciplinary team. Seventeen different histological subtypes of sarcoma were identified. Neither age, gender nor tumour size were significant prognostic indicators for survival in this series.

Conclusion

Prognosis is dependent on histological subtype, underscoring the importance of histological classification. Some histological subtypes occur only once or twice in a decade, even within a large regional referral centre. An accumulation of evidence from relatively small case series is key in the long-term development of treatment strategies.
Extrinsic and intrinsic representations
Authors: Lehky Sidney R. , Sereno Anne B.
Published: November 2019

We extend the discussion in the target article about distinctions between extrinsic coding (external references to known things, as required by information theory) and the alternative we and the target article both favor, intrinsic coding (internal relationships within sensory and motor signals). Central to our thinking about intrinsic coding is population coding and the concept of high-dimensional neural response spaces.
Prediction, embodiment, and representation
Authors: Aranyosi István
Published: November 2019

First, I argue that there is no agreement within non-classical cognitive science as to whether one should eliminate representations, hence, it is not clear that Brette's appeal to it is going to solve the problems with coding. Second, I argue that Brette's criticism of predictive coding as being intellectualistic is not justified, as predictive coding is compatible with embodied cognition.
Encodingism is not just a bad metaphor
Authors: Mirski Robert , Bickhard Mark H.
Published: November 2019

Brette's criticism of the coding metaphor focuses on its presence in neurosciences. We argue that this problematic view, which we call “encodingism,” is pernicious in any model of cognition that adopts it. We discuss some of the more specific problems it begets and then elaborate on Brette's action-based alternative to the coding framework.
Is “the brain” a helpful metaphor for neuroscience?
Authors: Keijzer Fred
Published: November 2019

Brette criticizes the notion of neural coding as used in neuroscience as a way to clarify the causal structure of the brain. This criticism will be positioned in a wider range of findings and ideas from other branches of neuroscience and biology. While supporting Brette's critique, these findings also suggest the need for more radical changes in neuroscience than Brette envisions.
Beyond metaphors and semantics: A framework for causal inference in neuroscience
Authors: Gulli Roberto A.
Published: November 2019

The long-enduring coding metaphor is deemed problematic because it imbues correlational evidence with causal power. In neuroscience, most research is correlational or conditionally correlational; this research, in aggregate, informs causal inference. Rather than prescribing semantics used in correlational studies, it would be useful for neuroscientists to focus on a constructive syntax to guide principled causal inference.
From the “coding metaphor” to a theory of representation
Authors: Birch Jonathan , Smortchkova Joulia
Published: November 2019

Brette highlights a conceptual problem in contemporary neuroscience: Loose talk of “coding” sometimes leads to a conflation of the distinction between representing and merely detecting a property. The solution is to replace casual talk of “coding” with an explicit, demanding set of conditions for neural representation. Various theories of this general type can be found in the philosophical literature.
Electro-optic entanglement source for microwave to telecom quantum state transfer
Authors: Rueda Alfredo , Hease William , Barzanjeh Shabir , Fink Johannes M.
Published: November 2019

We propose an efficient microwave-photonic modulator as a resource for stationary entangled microwave-optical fields and develop the theory for deterministic entanglement generation and quantum state transfer in multi-resonant electro-optic systems. The device is based on a single crystal whispering gallery mode resonator integrated into a 3D-microwave cavity. The specific design relies on a new combination of thin-film technology and conventional machining that is optimized for the lowest dissipation rates in the microwave, optical, and mechanical domains. We extract important device properties from finite-element simulations and predict continuous variable entanglement generation rates on the order of a Mebit/s for optical pump powers of only a few tens of microwatts. We compare the quantum state transfer fidelities of coherent, squeezed, and non-Gaussian cat states for both teleportation and direct conversion protocols under realistic conditions. Combining the unique capabilities of circuit quantum electrodynamics with the resilience of fiber optic communication could facilitate long-distance solid-state qubit networks, new methods for quantum signal synthesis, quantum key distribution, and quantum enhanced detection, as well as more power-efficient classical sensing and modulation.
Long-distance device-independent quantum key distribution
Authors: Zapatero Víctor , Curty Marcos
Published: November 2019

Besides being a beautiful idea, device-independent quantum key distribution (DIQKD) is probably the ultimate solution to defeat quantum hacking. Its security is based on a loophole-free violation of a Bell inequality, which results in a very limited maximum achievable distance. To overcome this limitation, DIQKD must be furnished with heralding devices like, for instance, qubit amplifiers, which can signal the arrival of a photon before the measurement settings are actually selected. In this way, one can decouple channel loss from the selection of the measurement settings and, consequently, it is possible to safely post-select the heralded events and discard the rest, which results in a significant enhancement of the achievable distance. In this work, we investigate photonic-based DIQKD assisted by two main types of qubit amplifiers in the finite data block size scenario, and study the resources—particularly, the detection efficiency of the photodetectors and the quality of the entanglement sources—that would be necessary to achieve long-distance DIQKD within a reasonable time frame of signal transmission.
Innovative methods for random field establishment and statistical parameter inversion exemplified with 6082-T6 aluminum alloy
Authors: Zheng Kaikai , Yang Kangkang , Shi Jun , Yuan Jian , Zhou Guangchun
Published: November 2019

This paper aims to eliminate the disharmony between simulation and experiment, and takes the mechanical properties of 6082-T6 Al alloy as an example. In order to obtain the equivalent distribution of material properties after considering the randomicity of materials, a new inversion method combining with stochastic finite element method (SFEM) is proposed. Besides, the discrete random field in SFEM is established by an innovative method to overcome some discretization difficulties in conventional methods. In summary, the generic methods proposed in this study can give a new solution for the correlation of meso-structure and macro-performance in computational materials science.
Natural Product Inspired Novel Indole based Chiral Scaffold Kills Human Malaria Parasites via Ionic Imbalance Mediated Cell Death
Authors: Dangi Poonam , Jain Ravi , Mamidala Rajanikanth , Sharma Vijeta , Agarwal Shalini , Bathula Chandramohan , Thirumalachary M. , Sen Subhabrata , Singh Shailja
Published: November 2019

Natural products offer an abundant source of diverse novel scaffolds that inspires development of next generation anti-malarials. With this vision, a library of scaffolds inspired by natural biologically active alkaloids was synthesized from chiral bicyclic lactams with steps/scaffold ratio of 1.7:1. On evaluation of library of scaffolds for their growth inhibitory effect against malaria parasite we found one scaffold with IC50in low micro molar range. It inhibited parasite growth via disruption of Na+homeostasis. P-type ATPase, PfATP4 is responsible for maintaining parasite Na+homeostasis and is a good target for anti-malarials. Molecular docking with our scaffold showed that it fits well in the binding pocket of PfATP4. Moreover, inhibition of Na+-dependent ATPase activity by our potent scaffold suggests that it targets parasite by inhibiting PfATP4, leading to ionic imbalance. However how ionic imbalance attributes to parasite’s death is unclear. We show that ionic imbalance caused by scaffold7induces autophagy that leads to onset of apoptosis in the parasite evident by the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) and DNA degradation. Our study provides a novel strategy for drug discovery and an insight into the molecular mechanism of ionic imbalance mediated death in malaria parasite.