bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In Situ Environmental Cell–Transmission Electron Microscopy Study of Microbial Reduction of Chromium(VI) Using Electron Energy Loss Spectroscopy
Authors: Daulton Tyrone L. , Little Brenda J. , Lowe Kristine , Jones-Meehan Joanne
Published: June 2020

Reduction of Cr(VI) by the bacterium, Shewanella oneidensis (previously classified Shewanella putrefaciens strain MR-1), was studied by absorption spectrophotometry and in situ, environmental cell–transmission electron microscopy (EC-TEM) coupled with electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS). Bacteria from rinsed cultures were placed directly in the environmental cell of the transmission electron microscope and examined under 100 Torr pressure. Bright field EC-TEM images show two distinct populations of S. oneidensis in incubated cultures containing Cr(VI)O42−: those that exhibit low image contrast and heavily precipitateencrusted cells exhibiting high image contrast. Several EELS techniques were applied to determine the oxidation state of Cr associated with encrusted cells. The encrusted cells are shown to contain a reduced form of Cr in oxidation state +3 or lower. These results demonstrate the capability to determine the chemistry and valence state of reduction products associated with unfixed, hydrated bacteria in an environmental cell transmission electron microscope.
Verification of Layered Structures in SnO2/Metal-based Gas Sensors by X-ray Microanalysis: Comparison with X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy
Authors: Bemporad Edoardo , Carassiti Fabio , Kaciulis Saulius , Mattogno Giulia
Published: June 2020

The depth profile of thin film layers on bulk substrate, avoiding the cross-sectioning of samples, is commonly performed by techniques such as X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Auger electron spectroscopy (AES), and secondary ion mass spectroscopy (SIMS). Techniques based on X-ray emission intensity measurements by energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), with conventional matrix or ZAF correction, are normally applied to cross-sectioned samples. This article compares XPS with surface X-ray intensity measurements by EDS, carried out with a more realistic X-ray generation and absorption model, known as the ϕ(ρ Z) model. The ϕ(ρ Z) approach has been adopted together with Monte Carlo simulation for the proper selection of SEM accelerating voltages, in conjunction with the analysis of SEM morphological images for thin film density correction. The method discussed hereafter and compared with the XPS technique, has advantages of higher lateral resolution, non-destructive elemental analyses, morphological visualization, low cost, and faster performance. This methodology has been followed to verify the layered structure of SnO2/metal-based gas sensors. X-ray intensities were measured using an EDS ultra-thin window detector. Two different porous layers, 25-nm thick of SnO2 and 10-nm thick of Cu, were detected, showing better agreement with their nominal thickness compared to results obtained using XPS measurements where porosity affects XPS data. If confirmed to be reliable and as effective as XPS depth profiling, this technique may be adopted for process quality control purposes.
Electron Spectroscopic Imaging of Magnetotactic Bacteria: Magnetosome Morphology and Diversity
Authors: Lins Ulysses , Freitas Flávia , Keim Carolina N. , Farina Marcos
Published: June 2020

Magnetotactic bacteria from aquatic environments were analyzed with the electron spectroscopic imaging technique. Rod-shaped bacteria and cocci were present in most of the samples observed. Magnetotactic multicellular aggregates were also observed at some of the sampling sites. The use of electron spectroscopic imaging allowed the observation of magnetosomes inside magnetotactic microorganisms with exceptional clarity. The number, size, and morphology of magnetosomes, as well as their ultrastructural spatial disposition inside the bacterial cell, could be directly observed and associated with the disposition of flagella of the respective cells.This allowed us to examine the structural relationships between magnetosomes and flagella, which are important components in the mechanisms of magnetotaxis. In disrupted magnetotactic multicellular aggregates, connections between cells were also visualized. We believe this technique will be useful in studying not only magnetotactic bacteria but also other uncultured microorganisms from natural environments.
Force Modulation Elasticity Mapping of Plastic-embedded, Thin-sectioned Skeletal Muscle
Authors: Akhremitchev Boris B. , Brown Henry G. , Graner Scott R. , Walker Gilbert C.
Published: June 2020

We have been researching the capability of atomic force microscopy to reveal nontopographic properties of tissue embedded in plastic and sectioned with standard electron microscopic techniques. We present topography and elasticity maps of plastic-embedded, thin sections of muscle tissue. The images show topography correlated with the normal repeating structure of the sarcomere. Elasticity mapping using force modulation revealed contrast between the actin- and myosin-rich areas. We attribute the observed contrast in elasticity to the difference in local concentrations of biological material in embedding plastic.
Microprobe Design in the 1950s: Some Examples in Europe
Authors: Duncumb Peter
Published: June 2020

The early days of the electron microprobe were characterized by the
variety of designs emerging from different laboratories in Europe, the
United States, and the USSR. Examples from Europe illustrate well the
diverging trends in the evolutionary process at that time. Later, commercial
pressures and a better understanding of user needs forced a rationalization
on both sides of the Atlantic, to the point where only few variants have
survived. These were memorable days, with scope for healthy rivalry and
vigorous debate.
Chemical Etching Technique for the Investigation of Melt-crystallized Isotactic Polypropylene Spherulite and Lamellar Morphology by Scanning Electron Microscopy
Authors: Park Jemyung , Eom Kyuyoung , Kwon Ohjun , Woo Sangsun
Published: June 2020

The spherulitic and lamellar morphologies of melt crystallized isotactic polypropylene (iPP) have been investigated according to various crystallization temperatures and times. In this study, an appropriate chemical etching condition for the observation of iPP morphology by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) is determined. The optimum etchant formulation is 3 wt% potassium permanganate with the mixed solvent of sulfuric acid and phosphoric acid. The morphologies after etching reveal the microstructure of iPP clearly, such as the characterization of α/β spherulites and the different lamellar growth patterns.
Application of Electron Probe Microanalysis to the Study of Geological
and Planetary Materials
Authors: McGee James J. , Keil Klaus
Published: June 2020

The impact of electron probe microanalysis on the study of geological
and planetary materials has been tremendous. Electron microprobes evolved
into routine analytical instruments in geological research laboratories as
instrument capabilities improved and applications to geologic/planetary
materials expanded. The contributions of electron probe microanalysis to the
characterization of minerals, both terrestrial and extraterrestrial, and to
other significant geological research, such as light element analysis, trace
element analysis, and element mapping, is described.
Soft-contact Atomic Force Microscopy Imaging of Adsorbed Surfactant and Polymer Layers
Authors: Fleming Barry D. , Wanless Erica J.
Published: June 2020

The technique of atomic force microscopy (AFM) soft-imaging is outlined with respect to characterizing
the adsorption of surfactants and polymers at the solid/liquid interface. This method utilizes the
electrostatic and steric repulsion forces between the scanning probe and the sample to allow sensitive placement
of the imaging probe near to the delicate surface layer. Specifically, the mixed adsorption of sodium dodecylsulfate
(SDS) and poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) (PVP) on graphite is examined. Unlike the adsorbed layer in a
solution of either component, the adsorbed layer in the mixture does not cover the substrate uniformly until
equilibrium is reached (often hours later). The interesting kinetic and coverage effects observed are significant
to the many applications reliant on adsorption from polymer-surfactant mixtures, especially to the flocculation
of dispersions.
Limiting Factors on Image Quality in Imaging through Turbid Media under Single-photon and Two-photon Excitation
Authors: Schilders S. P. , Gu M.
Published: June 2020

The effect of multiple scattering in a turbid medium on single-photon and two-photon fluorescence
microscopy is experimentally investigated for different scattering characteristics including scattering anisotrophy
and optical thickness of a turbid medium. It is demonstrated that two-photon excitation can provide
significant improvement in penetration depth through turbid media, due to reduced scattering experienced by
the excitation beam. It is also shown that the limiting factor in obtaining high-quality images under singlephoton
excitation is the fast degradation of image resolution caused by multiple scattering, while for twophoton
excitation it is limited by the degradation of image contrast due to the reduction in fluorescence
strength.
Is consonance attractive to budgerigars? No evidence from a place preference study
Authors: Wagner Bernhard , Bowling Daniel L. , Hoeschele Marisa
Published: June 2020

Consonant tone combinations occur naturally in the overtone series of harmonic sounds. These include sounds that many non-human animals produce to communicate. As such, non-human animals may be attracted to consonant intervals, interpreting them, e.g., as a feature of important social stimuli. There is preliminary evidence of attraction to consonance in various bird species in the wild, but few experimental studies with birds. We tested budgerigars (Melopsittacus undulatus) for attraction to consonant over dissonant intervals in two experiments. In Experiment 1, we tested humans and budgerigars using a place preference paradigm in which individuals could explore an environment with multiple sound sources. Both species were tested with consonant and dissonant versions of a previously studied piano melody, and we recorded time spent with each stimulus as a measure of attraction. Human females spent more time with consonant than dissonant stimuli in this experiment, but human males spent equal time with both consonant and dissonant stimuli. Neither male nor female budgerigars spent more time with either stimulus type. In Experiment 2, we tested budgerigars with more ecologically relevant stimuli comprised of sampled budgerigar vocalizations arranged into consonant or dissonant chords. These stimuli, however, also failed to produce any evidence of preference in budgerigar responses. We discuss these results in the context of ongoing research on the study of consonance as a potential general feature of auditory perception in animals with harmonic vocalizations, with respect to similarities and differences between human and budgerigar vocal behaviour, and future methodological directions.
The impact of cigarette smoking in predicting stroke using CHADS2 and CHA2DS2-VASc schemas
Authors: Zuo Ming-Liang , Li Chun-Mei , Deng Yan , Bhattacharyya Sanjib , Shuai Ping , Tse Hung-Fat , Siu Chung-Wah , Yin Li-Xue
Published: June 2020

Objective

To determine the impact of smoking status in the prediction of stroke using CHADS2 and CHA2DS2-VASc schemes.

Methods

Five hundred twenty-eight consecutive patients with arrhythmic symptoms and without any documented arrhythmia from Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong, were followed up to determine the incidence of ischemic stroke, new-onset atrial fibrillation (AF), or all-cause mortality. Smoking status was classified into nonsmokers and smokers. The pairwise comparisons of C-statistics for outcomes were performed.

Results

During a median follow-up period of 6.2 years, 65 (12.3%) individuals developed ischemic stroke. Smokers experienced higher annual incidence of stroke, a new-onset AF, and all-cause death compare to nonsmokers, with corresponding hazard ratio (HR) of stroke, AF, and all-cause death being 2.51 (95% confidence intervals, CI 1.36als, CIse death bein 1.15a3.24), and 1.95 (95% CI 1.161.95 (95% CIath being 2.51 (95% confidence corr2 and CHA2DS2-VASc for stroke were 0.60 (95% CI 0.51 for stp = 0.09) and 0.59 (95% CI 0.50 (95%, p = 0.15) respectively, whereas the C-statistics of CHADS2 and CHA2DS2-VASc were 0.66 (95% CI 0.61 were 0p = 0.005), 0.75 (95% CI 0.7 CI 0.7p < 0.0001), respectively among nonsmokers. After incorporating smoking, both the CHADS2-smoking and CHA2DS2-VASc-smoking achieved better C-statistics for new-onset ischemic stroke prediction superior to baseline score systems in male groups.

Conclusion

Cigarette smoking status has impact on stroke stratification using CHADS2 and CHA2DS2-VASc scheme. The discrimination of the CHADS2 and CHA2DS2-VASc scheme for stroke can be significantly improved if smoking status is additionally considered.
Endogenous calcitonin gene-related peptide in cerebrospinal fluid and early quality of life and mental health after good-grade spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage—a feasibility series
Authors: Bründl Elisabeth , Proescholdt Martin , Störr Eva-Maria , Schödel Petra , Bele Sylvia , Höhne Julius , Zeman Florian , Brawanski Alexander , Schebesch Karl-Michael
Published: June 2020

The vasodilatory calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) is excessively released after spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage (sSAH) and modulates psycho-behavioral function. In this pilot study, we prospectively analyzed the treatment-specific differences in the secretion of endogenous CGRP into cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) during the acute stage after good-grade sSAH and its impact on self-reported health-related quality of life (hrQoL). Twenty-six consecutive patients (f:m = 13:8; mean age 50.6 years) with good-grade sSAH were enrolled (drop out 19% (n = 5)): 35% (n = 9) underwent endovascular aneurysm occlusion, 23% (n = 6) microsurgery, and 23% (n = 6) of the patients with perimesencephalic SAH received standardized intensive medical care. An external ventricular drain was inserted within 72 h after the onset of bleeding. CSF was drawn daily from day 1–10. CGRP levels were determined via competitive enzyme immunoassay and calculated as “area under the curve” (AUC). All patients underwent a hrQoL self-report assessment (36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36), ICD-10-Symptom-Rating questionnaire (ISR)) after the onset of sSAH (t1: day 11–35) and at the 6-month follow-up (t2). AUC CGRP (total mean ± SD, 5.7 ± 1.8 ng/ml/24 h) was excessively released into CSF after sSAH. AUC CGRP levels did not differ significantly when dichotomizing the aSAH (5.63 ± 1.77) and pSAH group (5.68 ± 2.08). aSAH patients revealed a higher symptom burden in the ISR supplementary item score (p = 0.021). Multiple logistic regression analyses corroborated increased mean levels of AUC CGRP in CSF at t1 as an independent prognostic factor for a significantly higher symptom burden in most ISR scores (compulsive-obsessive syndrome (OR 5.741, p = 0.018), anxiety (OR 7.748, p = 0.021), depression (OR 2.740, p = 0.005), the supplementary items (OR 2.392, p = 0.004)) and for a poorer performance in the SF-36 physical component summary score (OR 0.177, p = 0.001). In contrast, at t2, CSF AUC CGRP concentrations no longer correlated with hrQoL. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to correlate the levels of endogenous CSF CGRP with hrQoL outcome in good-grade sSAH patients. Excessive CGRP release into CSF may have a negative short-term impact on hrQoL and emotional health like anxiety and depression. While subacutely after sSAH, higher CSF levels of the vasodilator CGRP are supposed to be protective against vasospasm-associated cerebral ischemia, from a psychopathological point of view, our results suggest an involvement of CSF CGRP in the dysregulation of higher integrated behavior.
The impact of loneliness on healthcare use in older people: evidence from a nationally representative cohort
Authors: Burns Annette , Leavey Gerard , Ward Mark , O’Sullivan Roger
Published: June 2020

Aim

Concerns around loneliness leading to increased healthcare use persist in spite of a mixed evidence base and lack of adjustment for key potential confounders. We investigated the associations among loneliness, health and healthcare use in older adults including stratification to investigate whether these associations differ by gender.

Subject and methods

Secondary analysis of a nationally representative sample of 8175 community-dwelling adults aged 50 years and over from The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA). Primary outcomes were self-reported general practitioner (GP) and emergency department (ED) visits in the past 12 months. Negative binomial and logistic regression analysis was used to investigate associations between loneliness and healthcare use, later adjusting for potential mediators (health and health behaviours).

Results

Loneliness was consistently positively associated with number of GP visits according to both cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses, with incidence rate ratios (IRRs) ranging from 1.08 to 1.33 in the sample overall. Associations with ED visits were less consistent. After adjusting for health and health behaviours, male loneliness does not appear to influence ED or GP visits. However, women who reported loneliness had an elevated risk of an ED visit at wave 1 (W1; odds ratio (OR) 1.08 [1.01–1.16]), as well as increased GP visits at both waves (IRRs ranging from 1.05 [1.02–1.07] to 1.16 [1.07–1.26]).

Conclusion

Older women experiencing loneliness visit their GP more often irrespective of health, health behaviours or social isolation. While effect sizes were small, there are implications for health service resources at a population level. Importantly, however, this may also be a useful opportunity to redirect towards appropriate services and tailored resources.
Prognostic potential of automated Ki67 evaluation in breast cancer: different hot spot definitions versus true global score
Authors: Robertson Stephanie , Acs Balazs , Lippert Michael , Hartman Johan
Published: June 2020

Purpose

The proliferation-associated biomarker Ki67 has potential utility in breast cancer, including aiding decisions based on prognosis, but has unacceptable inter- and intralaboratory variability. The aim of this study was to compare the prognostic potential for Ki67 hot spot scoring and global scoring using different digital image analysis (DIA) platforms.

Methods

An ER+/HER2− breast cancer cohort (n = 139) with whole slide images of sequential sections stained for hematoxylin–eosin, pancytokeratin and Ki67, was analyzed using two DIA platforms. For hot spot analysis virtual dual staining was applied, aligning pancytokeratin and Ki67 images and 22 hot spot algorithms with different features were designed. For global Ki67 scoring an automated QuPath algorithm was applied on Ki67-stained whole slide images. Clinicopathological data included overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) along with PAM50 molecular subtypes.

Results

We show significant variations in Ki67 hot spot scoring depending on number of included tumor cells, hot spot size, shape and location. The higher the number of scored tumor cells, the higher the reproducibility of Ki67 proliferation values. Hot spot scoring had greater prognostic potential for RFS in high versus low Ki67 subgroups (hazard ratio (HR) 6.88, CI 2.07–22.87,p = 0.002), compared to global scoring (HR 3.13, CI 1.41–6.96,p = 0.005). Regarding OS, global scoring (HR 7.46, CI 2.46–22.58,p < 0.001) was slightly better than hot spot scoring (HR 6.93, CI 1.61–29.91,p = 0.009). In adjusted multivariate analysis, only global scoring was an independent prognostic marker for both RFS and OS. In addition, global Ki67-based surrogate subtypes reached higher concordance with PAM50 molecular subtype for luminal A and B tumors (66.3% concordance rate,κ = 0.345), than using hot spot scoring (55.8% concordance rate,κ = 0.250).

Conclusions

We conclude that the automated global Ki67 scoring is feasible and shows clinical validity, which, however, needs to be confirmed in a larger cohort before clinical implementation.
Higher education contributing to local, national, and global development: new empirical and conceptual insights
Authors: Chankseliani Maia , Qoraboyev Ikboljon , Gimranova Dilbar
Published: June 2020

Higher education offers the potential to support glonacal (global, national, and local) development. This study presents new empirical and conceptual insights into the ways in which higher education can help to achieve and exceed the outcomes enshrined in the Sustainable Development Goals. Open-ended online surveys were used to learn how academics in Georgia and Kazakhstan view the contributions of universities to addressing self-identified development challenges; and how universities work with the government and the private sector for realising their glonacal development potential. While the study provides ample evidence on the national manifestations of the developmental role of universities, it also shows that limited academic freedom and institutional autonomy impede the full realisation of the potential of higher education. The assumptions underpinning the academics’ views on how higher education can support development are discussed in the light of an innovative framework of essentialist and anti-essentialist approaches. Juxtaposing the national with the global development missions of universities, the paper raises questions on the possibility of delinking higher education from the immediate human capital and modernisation needs of the nation-state and becoming concerned with the global, on promoting freedom to cultivate intellectual curiosity through education and research, and stimulating a more holistic imaginary of the developmental purposes of higher education.
Seeking Information on Social Commerce: An Examination of the Impact of User- and Marketer-generated Content Through an Eye-tracking Study
Authors: Mikalef Patrick , Sharma Kshitij , Pappas Ilias O. , Giannakos Michail
Published: June 2020

Following the growing popularity of social commerce sites, there is an increased interest in understanding how consumers decide what products to purchase based on the available information. Consumers nowadays are confronted with the task of assessing marketer-generated (MGC) as well as user-generated information (UGC) in a range of different forms to make informed purchase-related decisions. This study examines the information types and forms that influence consumers in their decision-making process on social commerce. Building on uses and gratifications and dual-process theories, we distinguish between marketer and user generated content, and differentiate formats into informational and normative. Using a mixed methods approach that builds on an eye-tracking study, followed by semi-structured interviews with 23 participants, our results indicate significant differences in the types and format of information consumed for selected versus eliminated products. Specifically, we looked at engagement, cognitive processing, and observation of consumers, since they reveal information about the mental and processing mechanisms during decision making. We find that consumers present a number of differences in terms of these measures among the different types of content, and with respect to selected versus eliminated products. The outcomes of the interviews also serve to complement these findings, providing more detailed information about the processes and emotional states of consumers during the selection process.
Recycling of Bioplastics: Routes and Benefits
Authors: Lamberti Fabio M. , Román-Ramírez Luis A. , Wood Joseph
Published: June 2020

Continual reduction of landfill space along with rising CO2levels and environmental pollution, are global issues that will only grow with time if not correctly addressed. The lack of proper waste management infrastructure means gloablly commodity plastics are disposed of incorrectly, leading to both an economical loss and environmental destruction. The bioaccumulation of plastics and microplastics can already be seen in marine ecosystems causing a negative impact on all organisms that live there, ultimately microplastics will bioaccumulate in humans. The opportunity exists to replace the majority of petroleum derived plastics with bioplastics (bio-based, biodegradable or both). This, in conjunction with mechanical and chemical recycling is a renewable and sustainable solution that would help mitigate climate change. This review covers the most promising biopolymers PLA, PGA, PHA and bio-versions of conventional petro-plastics bio-PET, bio-PE. The most optimal recycling routes after reuse and mechanical recycling are: alcoholysis, biodegradation, biological recycling, glycolysis and pyrolysis respectively.
Entanglement concentration service for the quantum Internet
Authors: Gyongyosi Laszlo , Imre Sandor
Published: June 2020

Here, we define the entanglement concentration service for the quantum Internet. The aim of the entanglement concentration service is to provide reliable, high-quality entanglement for a dedicated set of strongly connected quantum nodes in the quantum Internet. The objectives of the service are to simultaneously maximize the entanglement throughput of all entangled connections and to minimize the hop distance between the high-priority quantum nodes. We propose a method for the resolution of the entanglement concentration problem and provide a performance analysis.
Future trends and guidance for the triple bottom line and sustainability: a data driven bibliometric analysis
Authors: Tseng Ming-Lang , Chang Chia-Hao , Lin Chun-Wei Remen , Wu Kuo-Jui , Chen Qing , Xia Li , Xue Bing
Published: June 2020

This study conducts a comprehensive literature review of articles on the triple bottom line (TBL) published from January 1997 to September 2018 to provide significant insights and support to guide further discussion. There were three booms in TBL publications, occurring in 2003, 2011, and 2015, and many articles attempt to address the issue of sustainability by employing the TBL. This literature analysis includes 720, 132, and 58 articles from the Web of Science (WOS), Inspec, and Scopus databases, respectively, and reveals the gaps in existing research. To discover the barriers and points of overlap, these articles are categorized into six aspects of the TBL: economic, environmental, social, operations, technology, and engineering. Examining the top 3 journals in terms of published articles on each aspect reveals the research trends and gaps. The findings provide solid evidence confirming the argument that the TBL as currently defined is insufficient to cover the entire concept of sustainability. The social and engineering aspects still require more discussion to support the linkage of the TBL and to reinforce its theoretical basis. Additionally, to discover the gaps in the data sources, theories applied, methods adopted, and types of contributions, this article summarizes 82 highly cited articles covering each aspect. This article offers theoretical insights by identifying the top contributing countries, institutions, authors, keyword networks, and authorship networks to encourage scholars to push the current discussion further forward, and it provides practical insights to bridge the gap between theory and practice for enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of improvements.
Effect of short-term intermittent exposure to waterborne estradiol on the reproductive physiology of the round goby (Neogobius melanostomus)
Authors: Guellard Tatiana , Kalamarz-Kubiak Hanna , Arciszewski Bartłomiej
Published: June 2020

The objective of this study was to determine how the short-term exposure to a supraphysiological concentration of waterborne 17β-estradiol (E2) influences on melatonin (Mel) and thyroxine (T4) concentrations in plasma and E2 and 11-ketotestosterone (11-KT) concentrations in plasma and gonads in both sexes of round goby (Neogobius melanostomus) during the pre-spawning, spawning, late spawning and non-spawning phases. The experimental protocol was based on short-term, repeated exposures of fish to a supraphysiological dose of waterborne E2. Mel level was unchanged on exposure to E2 during the investigated phases, and its role in determining a time frame for spawning in both sexes of round goby seems to be stable in those conditions. T4 and sex steroids (E2 and 11-KT) were sensitive to the exposure of E2, and those changes influence gonads by accelerating oocyte development, ovulation and regression and inhibiting spermatogenesis in this species. The results demonstrate that the physiological responses of fish in all investigated phases were altered over a short window of exposure, indicating that short-term exposure to a supraphysiological dose of E2 may impact fish in the wild. Furthermore, round goby can be recommended as a very suitable model for studying endocrine disruptors, which is sensitive to even short exposure to E2.
Correction to: Biosynthesis of medicinally important plant metabolites by unusual type III polyketide synthases
Authors: Abe Ikuro
Published: June 2020

The article Biosynthesis of medicinally important plant metabolites by unusual.
Quantitative approaches to productivity and borrowing in Maltese derivation
Authors: Saade Benjamin
Published: June 2020

This paper applies quantitative measures of productivity to a selection of Maltese derivational affixes borrowed from Italian/Sicilian. The productivity rankings of the selected affixes are compared to their Italian sources revealing identical rankings for the most productive affixes and slightly deviating rankings for the less productive affixes. It is argued that morphological productivity scores and the subsequent rankings form a pattern that is established in the recipient language by the sum of matter borrowings of formations involving the respective affixes. In conjunction with a discussion of the mixed lexicon and morphology of Maltese, a case is made that converging or diverging productivity rankings can be explained by well-studied variables in language contact studies: intensity of contact, availability of registers/repertoires, and route of borrowing (direct/indirect). In addition it is shown that the cross-linguistic application of other quantitative measures, including a newly proposed Integration Factor and Seifart’s criteria for direct and indirect borrowing, can help uncover where the distributions of donor and recipient language affixes diverge, providing an exploratory tool for morphologist and contact linguists alike.
Philosophy of science for sustainability science
Authors: Nagatsu Michiru , Davis Taylor , DesRoches C. Tyler , Koskinen Inkeri , MacLeod Miles , Stojanovic Milutin , Thorén Henrik
Published: June 2020

Sustainability science seeks to extend scientific investigation into domains characterized by a distinct problem-solving agenda, physical and social complexity, and complex moral and ethical landscapes. In this endeavor, it arguably pushes scientific investigation beyond its usual comfort zones, raising fundamental issues about how best to structure such investigation. Philosophers of science have long scrutinized the structure of science and scientific practices, and the conditions under which they operate effectively. We propose a critical engagement between sustainability scientists and philosophers of science with respect to how to engage in scientific activity in these complex domains. We identify specific issues philosophers of science raise concerning current sustainability science and the contributions philosophers can make to resolving them. In conclusion, we reflect on the steps philosophers of science could take to advance sustainability science.
The Effects of Chemistry Variations in New Nickel-Based Superalloys for Industrial Gas Turbine Applications
Authors: Sulzer Sabin , Hasselqvist Magnus , Murakami Hideyuki , Bagot Paul , Moody Michael , Reed Roger
Published: June 2020

Industrial gas turbines (IGT) require novel single-crystal superalloys with demonstrably superior corrosion resistance to those used for aerospace applications and thus higher Cr contents. Multi-scale modeling approaches are aiding in the design of new alloy grades; however, the CALPHAD databases on which these rely remain unproven in this composition regime. A set of trial nickel-based superalloys for IGT blades is investigated, with carefully designed chemistries which isolate the influence of individual additions. Results from an extensive experimental characterization campaign are compared with CALPHAD predictions. Insights gained from this study are used to derive guidelines for optimized gas turbine alloy design and to gauge the reliability of the CALPHAD databases.
Analysis of the Impact of the Consolidated Material on the Morphology of Briquettes Produced in a Roller Press
Authors: Bembenek Michał , Zięba Amelia , Kopyściański Mateusz , Krawczyk Janusz
Published: June 2020

This article presents the results of saddle-shaped briquettes produced in a roller press from 15 fine-grained materials subjected to long-term seasoning. Experiments were carried out to determine the capacity of agglomerates, their surface roughness, compressive strength, excessive material, and superficial defects. Although a molding surface with molding cavities with the same shape was used for briquetting, significantly different results were obtained due to the different types of materials used for briquetting. Briquettes made from metallic and inorganic materials were characterized by a strength that increased with their density, which was not observed in carbonaceous materials. The tests are innovative and should be considered as pilot tests.
Improving the Stability of Red Blood Cells in Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) and Herring (Clupea harengus): Potential Solutions for Post-mortem Fish Handling to Minimize Lipid Oxidation
Authors: Ghirmai S. , Eriksson L. , Wu H. , Axelsson M. , Undeland I.
Published: June 2020

This study aimed at limiting hemolysis of fish red blood cells (RBCs) as a strategy to limit hemoglobin (Hb)-induced lipid oxidation during post-mortem handling and processing. Effects of varying temperature, salinity, and mechanical impact were studied using washed resuspended RBCs (wr-RBCs) and whole blood (WB) from rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) and herring (Clupea harengus). The wr-RBCs were most stable avoiding mechanical stress, keeping isotonic conditions (0.9–1.3% NaCl) and low temperature 0–6 °C, with predicted minimum at 2.5 °C. When compared at the same salinity, it was found that hemolysis was more pronounced in herring than trout wr-RBCs. Furthermore, WB was more stable than wr-RBCs, showing protecting the effects of blood plasma. Studying individual plasma components, stabilizing effects were found from glucose, proteins, and ascorbic acid. This study indicates that small adjustments in the early handling and processing of fish such as changing salinity of storage and rinsing solutions could minimize Hb contamination of the fish muscle and thereby improve quality.
Internationale Soziale Arbeit neu denken
Authors: Lutz Ronald , Kleibl Tanja
Published: June 2020

Covid-19 hat sich über die ganze Welt ausbreitet und kann sie an den Rand eines ökonomischen und politischen Kollapses führen. Das Virus trifft zwar alle, doch mit Unterschieden. Die Krankheit wird zum einen die sozialen Probleme in den reichen Gesellschaften des Nordens verändern und auch vergrößern, doch insbesondere in den Ländern des Globalen Südens kann der Ausbruch in seinen ökonomischen und sozialen Folgen verheerend sein. Kann der Globale Norden noch eindämmende und die Folgen abfedernde Maßnahmen etablieren, so schlagen die Auswirkungen im Globalen Süden voll durch. In diesen Gesellschaften sind verheerende Folgen zu erwarten, die Armut, Elend, Hunger und Migrationsbewegungen intensivieren werden. Dadurch wird aber auch die Globale Ungleichheit zwischen den Nationen größer. In dieser Krise wäre Solidarität über nationale Grenzen hinweg gefragt; doch genau diese ist kaum erkennbar. Die Internationale Soziale Arbeit ist aufgefordert, ihre Ausrichtung neu zu definieren.
Wohnst Du noch …?
Authors: Rohrmann Eckhard
Published: June 2020

Ende der 1980er, Anfang der 1990er Jahre kam es zu einer Abkehr von überkommenen Ansätzen, denen zufolge Nichtsesshaftigkeit eine den Betroffenen gewissermaßen innewohnende oder anhaftende Persönlichkeitsstörung sei. Auch das Hilfesystem wandelte sich, Holtmannspötter sprach von einem Paradigmenwechsel von der Nichtsesshaften- zur Wohnungslosenhilfe. Seit etwa 20 Jahren jedoch scheint sich das überwunden geglaubte Problemverständnis wieder durchzusetzen und zuzuspitzen, mit entsprechenden Konsequenzen für das Hilfesystem.
Carbon and Hydrogen Isotope Signatures of Dissolved Methane in the Scheldt Estuary
Authors: Jacques Caroline , Gkritzalis Thanos , Tison Jean-Louis , Hartley Thomas , van der Veen Carina , Röckmann Thomas , Middelburg Jack J. , Cattrijsse André , Egger Matthias , Dehairs Frank , Sapart Célia J.
Published: June 2020

We collected water samples from the Scheldt estuary during December 2015 and November 2016 for methane (CH4) concentration and isotopic composition (δ13C and δD values) analyses, to investigate the origin of the excess dissolved CH4, which is a common feature in estuaries. The Scheldt estuary is a eutrophic, heterotrophic tidal estuary, located at the border between Belgium and the Netherlands. The gas chromatography and mass spectrometry analyses revealed (1) variable dissolved CH4 concentrations reaching up to 302.6 nM in surface waters of the Port of Antwerp, which fits within the higher range of values reported for European estuaries, and (2) the presence of surprisingly high isotopic signatures in the upper estuary. While microbial CH4 production dominates in the lower part of the estuary, we observe a clear trend towards isotopically heavier CH4 upstream where isotopic signatures as enriched as − 25.2‰ for carbon and + 101‰ for hydrogen were measured. We conclude that microbial oxidation of most of the CH4 pool could explain such enrichments, but that the origin of riverine CH4 enriched isotopic signatures remains to be explained. This study identifies peculiar features associated with CH4 cycling in the Scheldt estuary, paving the way for a more thorough biogeochemical quantification of various production/removal processes.
Existence and non-existence of asymmetrically rotating solutions to a mathematical model of self-propelled motion
Authors: Okamoto Mamoru , Gotoda Takeshi , Nagayama Masaharu
Published: June 2020

Mathematical models for self-propelled motions are often utilized for understanding the mechanism of collective motions observed in biological systems. Indeed, several patterns of collective motions of camphor disks have been reported in experimental systems. In this paper, we show the existence of asymmetrically rotating solutions of a two-camphor model and give necessary conditions for their existence and non-existence. The main theorem insists that the function describing the surface tension should have a concave part so that asymmetric motions of two camphor disks appear. Our result provides a clue for the dependence between the surfactant concentration and the surface tension in the mathematical model, which is difficult to be measured in experiments.
Swelling behavior of heavy crude oil in carbonated water at the presence of Na2SO4 and Mg2SO4
Authors: Zaker Saeed , Sharafi Amir , Parvizi Roohollah , Esmaeili-Faraj Seyyed Hamid , Ghaseminejad Ebrahim
Published: June 2020

Carbonated water (CW) and low salinity (LS) injection processes are among the most widely investigated method during the past decade due to their unique advantages. Although the results revealed rather efficiency of these two methods, it is reported that using the combination of these two methods can introduce new insight about the smart and newly developed enhance oil recovery processes. Respect to these facts, the current work is aimed to investigate the swelling behavior of heavy crude oil in carbonated water at the presence of Na2SO4 and Mg2SO4. In this way, one of the main effective mechanisms through the carbonated water injection which is swelling factor is examined in the presence of two different salts, namely, Na2SO4 and Mg2SO4, under different pressures (500–4000 psi) and temperatures (30–80 °C). The results obtained in this investigation are compared with the previously reported results regarding the carbonated brine (CB) solutions consisted of different salts such as KCl, NaCl, CaCl2, and MgCl2 with the same concentration of 15,000 ppm. The results not only reveal the possible mechanism behind the swelling factor variation, but also reveal that crude oil and ion type as well as temperature besides the solubility of CO2 in aqueous phase can introduce tremendous influence on the mobility of CO2 molecules and their partitioning from aqueous phase towards the oil phase. Also, the obtained results reveal that the presence of divalent ions can directly affect the crossover pressure toward lower values.
Characteristic polyhedra of singularities without completion: part II
Authors: Cossart Vincent , Schober Bernd
Published: June 2020

Hironaka’s characteristic polyhedron is an important combinatorial object reflecting the local nature of a singularity. We prove that it can be determined without passing to the completion if the local ring is a G-ring and if additionally either it is Henselian, or a certain polynomiality condition (Pol) holds, or a mild condition (*) on the singularity holds. For example, the latter is fulfilled if the residue field is perfect.
Gender Segregation, Occupational Sorting, and Growth of Wage Disparities Between Women
Authors: Busch Felix
Published: June 2020

Average female wages in traditionally male occupations have steeply risen over the past couple of decades in Germany. This trend led to a new and substantial pay gap between women working in male-typed occupations and other women. I dissect the emergence of these wage disparities between women, using data from the German Socio-Economic Panel (1992–2015). Compositional change with respect to education is the main driver for growing inequality. Other factors are less influential but still relevant: marginal returns for several wage-related personal characteristics have grown faster in male-typed occupations. Net of individual-level heterogeneity, traditionally male occupations have also become more attractive because of rising returns to task-specific skills. Discrimination of women in typically male lines of work seems to have declined, too, which erased part of the wage penalty these women had previously experienced. In sum, I document changes in the occupational sorting behavior of women as well as shifts in occupation-level reward mechanisms that have had a profound impact on the state of inequality between working women.
Clay Material of an Eocene Deposit (Khanguet Rheouis, Tunisia): Identification Using Geochemical and Mineralogical Characterization
Authors: Allouche Fathi , Eloussaief Mabrouk , Ghrab Sana , Kallel Nejib
Published: June 2020

Despite the numerous studies on geomaterials in Tunisia, quite a few clay varieties are not yet well defined. In fact no detailed geological, mineralogical, or geochemical characterizations of Tunisian palygorskite deposits have been carried out to date. The purpose of the present work was to study the continental Eocene clay deposit at the southern end of the Tunisian North axis, between Jebel Rheouis and Jebel Boudinar, to determine its potential as a clay reserve. Nine samples were collected from the Cherahil formation representing the lower, middle, and upper levels. The analytical results obtained using several techniques (chemical analysis, X-ray diffraction, specific surface area measurements, Fourier-Transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy) revealed that palygorskite is the dominant clay mineral. Dolomite and quartz are present as associated minerals. Chemical analysis of sample AR9 showed a smaller potassium content compared to other samples. Sample AR9 consists essentially of dolomite associated with palygorskite and quartz. Other samples (AR5, AR6, and AR7) collected from the same Cherahil formation contained palygorskite as the main phyllosilicate mineral (80%). The important reserve of palygorskite was found in the middle of the Cherahil formation. Dolomite and quartz associated with palygorskite reduced the length and crystallinity of the fibrous clay morphology. Analysis by scanning electron microscopy proved that the crystallinity of palygorskite was less in the lower and upper parts of the Cherahil formation. The central palygorskite deposit may be of interest for pharmaceutical (adsorbent drug) and other applications. The two other levels of Cherahil formation are mineralogically heterogeneous and considered economically less important than the middle level, which is rich in palygorskite.
Social Epistemic Normativity: The Program
Authors: Goldberg Sanford C.
Published: June 2020

In this paper I argue that epistemically normative claims regarding what one ispermittedorrequiredto believe (or to refrain from believing) are sometimes true in virtue of what we owe one another as social creatures. I do not here pursue a reduction of these epistemically normative claims to claims asserting one or another (ethical or social) interpersonal obligation, though I highlight some resources for those who would pursue such a reduction.
Entropy in uniformly quasiregular dynamics
Authors: KANGASNIEMI ILMARI , OKUYAMA YÛSUKE , PANKKA PEKKA , SAHLSTEN TUOMAS
Published: June 2020

Let$M$be a closed, oriented, and connected Riemannian$n$-manifold, for$n\geq 2$, which is not a rational homology sphere. We show that, for a non-constant and non-injective uniformly quasiregular self-map$f:M\rightarrow M$, the topological entropy$h(f)$is$\log \deg f$. This proves Shub’s entropy conjecture in this case.
Evaluating and prioritizing antimicrobial stewardship programs for nursing homes: A modified Delphi panel
Authors: Kruger Shaul Z. , Bronskill Susan E. , Jeffs Lianne , Steinberg Marilyn , Morris Andrew M. , Bell Chaim M.
Published: June 2020

Background:

Antibiotic use in nursing homes is often inappropriate, in terms of overuse and misuse, and it can be linked to adverse events and antimicrobial resistance. Antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs) can optimize antibiotic use by minimizing unnecessary prescriptions, treatment cost, and the overall spread of antimicrobial resistance. Nursing home providers and residents are candidates for ASP implementation, yet guidelines for implementation are limited.

Objective:

To support nursing home providers with the selection and adoption of ASP interventions.

Design and Setting:

A multiphase modified Delphi method to assess 15 ASP interventions across criteria addressing scientific merit, feasibility, impact, accountability, and importance. This study included surveys supplemented with a 1-day consensus meeting.

Participants:

A 16-member multidisciplinary panel of experts and resident representatives.

Results:

From highest to lowest, 6 interventions were prioritized by the panel: (1) guidelines for empiric prescribing, (2) audit and feedback, (3) communication tools, (4) short-course antibiotic therapy, (5) scheduled antibiotic reassessment, and (6) clinical decision support systems. Several interventions were not endorsed: antibiograms, educational interventions, formulary review, and automatic substitution. A lack of nursing home resources was noted, which could impede multifaceted interventions.

Conclusions:

Nursing home providers should consider 6 key interventions for ASPs. Such interventions may be feasible for nursing home settings and impactful for improving antibiotic use; however, scientific merit supporting each is variable. A multifaceted approach may be necessary for long-term improvement but difficult to implement.