bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structure, stress and optical properties of Cr/C multilayers for the tender X-ray range
Authors: Feng Jiangtao , Huang Qiushi , Wang Hongchang , Yang Xiaowei , Giglia Angelo , Xie Chun , Wang Zhanshan
Published: April 2019

Cr/C multilayer optics are a suitable choice for the tender X-ray range (1–4 keV) that covers the K absorption edges of P, S, Cl and 3d transition metals as well as the L absorption edges of 4d transition metals. In particular, these optics are studied in order to optimize the optical properties of collimated plane-grating monochromators. In this paper, the structure, stress and optical properties of Cr/C multilayers (fabricated using direct-current magnetron sputtering) with bi-layer number of 20 and the same period (about 11.64 nm) but different Cr thickness ratio (0.20–0.80) are investigated. Firstly, the grazing-incidence X-ray reflectivity at 8.04 keV was measured. These measurements were fitted assuming a multilayer structure with a four-layer and non-periodic model. Results and fitting show that interface widths increase with the Cr thickness ratio. The results obtained from X-ray diffraction at 8.04 keV were consistent with high-resolution transmission electron microscopy which showed an increase in grain size of the Cr layers. In addition, the stresses of the Cr/C multilayers have been measured and the results show that the stress value approaches zero when the Cr thickness ratio is about 0.45. The reflectivity of a Cr/C multilayer with Cr thickness ratio of 0.37 was measured and reaches 26.6% at 1.04 keV. The measured reflectivity matches very well with the predicted value using the four-layer and non-periodic model, which confirmed the viability of the prediction. Thus, the reflectivity at 1.04 keV of a Cr/C multilayer with different Cr thickness ratio was predicted and was found to drastically decrease when the Cr thickness ratio is larger than 0.37. It has been determined that a Cr thickness ratio value of 0.37 is the best choice for a Cr/C multilayer in view of high reflectivity and low stress.
On-line monitoring of the spatial properties of hard X-ray free-electron lasers based on a grating splitter
Authors: Hua Wenqiang , Zhou Guangzhao , Hu Zhe , Yang Shumin , Liao Keliang , Zhou Ping , Dong Xiaohao , Wang Yuzhu , Bian Fenggang , Wang Jie
Published: April 2019

X-ray free-electron lasers (XFELs) play an increasingly important role in addressing the new scientific challenges relating to their high brightness, high coherence and femtosecond time structure. As a result of pulse-by-pulse fluctuations, the pulses of an XFEL beam may demonstrate subtle differences in intensity, energy spectrum, coherence, wavefront, etc., and thus on-line monitoring and diagnosis of a single pulse are required for many XFEL experiments. Here a new method is presented, based on a grating splitter and bending-crystal analyser, for single-pulse on-line monitoring of the spatial characteristics including the intensity profile, coherence and wavefront, which was suggested and applied experimentally to the temporal diagnosis of an XFEL single pulse. This simulation testifies that the intensity distribution, coherence and wavefront of the first-order diffracted beam of a grating preserve the properties of the incident beam, by using the coherent mode decomposition of the Gaussian–Schell model and Fourier optics. Indicatively, the first-order diffraction of appropriate gratings can be used as an alternative for on-line monitoring of the spatial properties of a single pulse without any characteristic deformation of the principal diffracted beam. However, an interesting simulation result suggests that the surface roughness of gratings will degrade the spatial characteristics in the case of a partially coherent incident beam. So, there exists a suitable roughness value for non-destructive monitoring of the spatial properties of the downstream beam, which depends on the specific optical path. Here, experiments based on synchrotron radiation X-rays are carried out in order to verify this method in principle. The experimental results are consistent with the theoretical calculations.
Arrival timing diagnostics at a soft X-ray free-electron laser beamline of SACLA BL1
Authors: Owada Shigeki , Nakajima Kyo , Togashi Tadashi , Katayama Tetsuo , Yumoto Hirokatsu , Ohashi Haruhiko , Yabashi Makina
Published: April 2019

An arrival timing monitor for the soft X-ray free-electron laser (XFEL) beamline of SACLA BL1 has been developed. A small portion of the soft XFEL pulse is branched using the wavefront-splitting method. The branched FEL pulse is one-dimensionally focused onto a GaAs wafer to induce a transient reflectivity change. The beam branching method enables the simultaneous operation of the arrival timing diagnostics and experiments. The temporal resolution evaluated from the imaging system is ∼22 fs in full width at half-maximum, which is sufficient considering the temporal durations of the soft XFEL and the optical laser pulses.
The effects of work experience on interpretations of recruitment advertisements and organizational attraction
Authors: Yockey Mark
Published: April 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate potential differences in experienced and inexperienced workers’ interpretations of recruitment ads.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses a between subjects design to compare responses to recruitment advertisements. The advertisements varied in terms of compensation information.

Findings

Work experience did not alter perceptions of organizational culture but it did affect levels of organizational attraction. The implication is that all workers interpret recruitment advertisements in a similar manner but more experienced workers prefer different work environments than less experienced workers.

Research limitations/implications

The results generally support the use of student populations or inexperienced workers in recruitment research. The study was limited to perceptions of pay statements. Other forms of recruitment information needs to be investigated.

Practical implications

Companies seeking to recruit experienced workers need to be attentive to how those workers will view the company’s culture based on information in their recruitment advertisements.

Originality/value

This study is one of a very limited number of organizational attraction studies comparing experienced and inexperienced workers. It is important because it helps clarify the underlying mechanisms impacting organizational attraction based on work experience.
User adoption of a hybrid social tagging approach in an online knowledge community
Authors: Qin Chunxiu , Liu Yaxi , Mou Jian , Chen Jiangping
Published: April 2019

Purpose

Online knowledge communities make great contributions to global knowledge sharing and innovation. Resource tagging approaches have been widely adopted in such communities to describe, annotate and organize knowledge resources mainly through users’ participation. However, it is unclear what causes the adoption of a particular resource tagging approach. The purpose of this paper is to identify factors that drive users to use a hybrid social tagging approach.

Design/methodology/approach

Technology acceptance model and social cognitive theory are adopted to support an integrated model proposed in this paper. Zhihu, one of the most popular online knowledge communities in China, is taken as the survey context. A survey was conducted with a questionnaire and collected data were analyzed through structural equation model.

Findings

A new hybrid social resource tagging approach was refined and described. The empirical results revealed that self-efficacy, perceived usefulness (PU) and perceived ease of use exert positive effect on users’ attitude. Moreover, social influence, PU and attitude impact significantly on users’ intention to use a hybrid social resource tagging approach.

Originality/value

Theoretically, this study enriches the type of resource tagging approaches and recognizes factors influencing user adoption to use it. Regarding the practical parts, the results provide online information system providers and designers with referential strategies to improve the performance of the current tagging approaches and promote them.
Single voxel approach for Lorentz force evaluation
Authors: Dölker Eva-Maria , Petković Bojana , Schmidt Reinhard , Ziolkowski Marek , Brauer Hartmut , Haueisen Jens
Published: April 2019

Purpose

Lorentz force evaluation is a non-destructive evaluation method for conducting specimens. The movement of a specimen relative to a permanent magnet leads to Lorentz forces that are perturbed in the presence of a defect. This defect response signal (DRS) is used for defect reconstruction. To solve a linear inverse problem for defect reconstruction, an accurate and fast forward computation method is required. As existing forward methods are either too slow or too inaccurate, the purpose of this paper is to propose the single voxel approach (SVA) as a novel method.

Design/methodology/approach

In SVA, the DRS is computed as a superposition of DRSs from single defect voxels, which are calculated in advance, by applying the boundary element source method. This research uses a setup of an isotropic conducting specimen, a spherical permanent magnet and defects of different shapes at different depths. With the help of simulations, this study compares the SVA to the previously proposed approximate forward solution (AFS) and the extended area approach (EAA) using the normalized root mean square error (NRMSE). Simulated data using the finite element method serve as the reference solution.

Findings

SVA shows across all simulations NRMSE values <2.5 per cent compared to <8 per cent for EAA and <12 per cent for AFS.

Originality/value

The superposition principle of SVA allows for the application of linear inverse methods for defect reconstruction while providing sufficient accuracy of the forward method.
Employee deviant behavior: role of culture and organizational relevant support
Authors: Kalemci R. Arzu , Kalemci-Tuzun Ipek , Ozkan-Canbolat Ela
Published: April 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to increase the knowledge and understanding of organizational and supervisory support in the context of employee deviant workplace behavior (DWB) by examining the potential associations of employees’ cultural value orientations. This paper aims to: clarify DWB; review perceived organizational support (POS) and perceived supervisory support (PSS); discuss the meaning of employees’ cultural value orientations (individualism–collectivism, power distance and paternalism); use the fuzzy logic model to analyze relationships between DWB and POS, as well as PSS and employees’ cultural value orientations.

Design/methodology/approach

This research applies a fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis.

Findings

The results show the role of employee perceived organizational and supervisory support and cultural dimension (power distance and paternalism) configurations on employee DWB.

Originality/value

The main originality of this study is to further increase the understanding of organizational and supervisory support in the context of employee DWB by examining the potential associations of employees’ cultural value orientations. This study extends the previous research by providing evidence that organizational and supervisory support influences employees’ DWB.
Ethnobotanies of refusal: Methodologies in respecting plant(ed)‐human resistance
Authors: GOLDSTEIN RUTH
Published: April 2019

Elaborating on conversational exchanges with a Brazilian shaman about biopiracy and interweaving scholarly literature from the ontological and ‘botanical’ turn, the author examines the disciplinary as well as the political ramifications of plant healers and practitioners – particularly indigenous ones – going largely uncited in plant‐centred discussions. In Brazil, indigenous claims for territory and political sovereignty gain traction when they are linked to cultural patrimony. Highlighting ayahuasca as an example of the way that certain plants and people can be involved in collaborative survival, the author demonstrates the entwined semiotic‐material stakes of the botanical turn within claims for traditional knowledge and territory. Her analysis frames possible ethnobotanies and methodologies of refusal in respecting plant(ed)‐human resistance.
The role of diminishing marginal utility in the ordinal and cardinal utility theories
Authors: Lin Chung‐Cheng , Peng Shi‐Shu
Published: April 2019

We illustrate the role of the law of diminishing marginal utility in the two main modern utility theories, the ordinal and cardinal utility theories, using a generalised total utility function. In short, the ordinal utility theory, in which utility is immeasurable, must abandon the law of diminishing marginal utility; the cardinal utility theory, although able to retain this law, suffers from keeping the unrealistic view of utility measurability, which Samuelson criticises as “infinitely improbable.” A new utility theory with the advantages of the two mentioned theories (i.e. the notions of both diminishing marginal utility and utility immeasurability) but without the disadvantages (i.e. the law of diminishing marginal utility is excluded and utility is measurable) therefore still seems to be a Holy Grail deserving search and development by economists.
Common and uncommon imaging features of abdominal tuberculosis
Authors: Gupta Pankaj , Kumar Suresh , Sharma Vishal , Mandavdhare Harshal , Dhaka Narender , Sinha Saroj K , Dutta Usha , Kochhar Rakesh
Published: April 2019

Despite the advances in the medical care, tuberculosis (TB) still remains an important health problem. This is particularly relevant to the developing countries as well as the immunocompromised population in the developed world. Multidrug resistance poses another challenge and may be responsible for increasing incidence of TB, to some extent. The respiratory system is the most commonly involved, although any organ system may be affected. Abdominal involvement occurs in 11–12% of the patients with extrapulmonary TB. The clinical features of abdominal TB are nonspecific. Imaging plays an important role in the diagnosis of abdominal TB. Although a few imaging features strongly favour the possibility of TB, abdominal TB is a greater masquerader. In this review, we highlight the entire spectrum of the manifestations of abdominal tuberculosis (excluding the genitourinary involvement) with an emphasis on imaging findings.
Performance of the Self‐Report of the Effects of Alcohol Questionnaire Across Sexes and Generations
Authors: Schuckit Marc A. , Smith Tom L. , Rana Brinda K. , Mendoza Lee Ann , Clarke Dennis , Kawamura Mari
Published: April 2019

Background

Low level of responses (low LRs) to alcohol established using the Self‐Report of the Effects of Alcohol (SRE) questionnaire are genetically influenced phenotypes related to heavy drinking and alcohol problems. To date, most studies using SREs focused on scores for the number of drinks needed for effects across the first 5 times of drinking (SRE‐5), and few evaluated scores that also included the prior 3 months and heaviest drinking periods (SRE‐T). This paper evaluates characteristics of SRE‐5 and SRE‐T within and across generations.

Methods

Data were extracted from 407 participants across 2 generations of 107 families in the San Diego Prospective Study (SDPS). Pearson's product–moment correlations for SRE‐5 and SRE‐T were determined across first‐degree relatives both within and across generations and sexes, as well as correlations of each measure to maximum drinking quantities and alcohol problems.

Results

Responding to 4 hypotheses, first the analyses demonstrated significant within‐generation positive correlations for both SRE measures across brother–brother and sister–sister pairs as well as cross‐generation correlations for fathers and sons, although correlations for mothers and daughters were not robust. Second, both SRE‐5 and SRE‐T correlated with maximum drinks and alcohol problems for both sexes and both generations. Third, within parental and offspring generations SRE‐T correlated more robustly than SRE‐5 to maximum drinks and alcohol problems. Fourth, across generations SRE values for sons were more closely related to drinking quantities and problems than for their fathers, but the mother–daughter SRE relationships to adverse alcohol characteristics were not different.

Conclusions

Both the SRE‐5 and SRE‐T offered useful information about propensities toward heavier drinking and alcohol problems in SDPS families. Correlations with adverse alcohol outcomes were greater for the more broad‐based SRE‐T, but both scores appeared to be genetically influenced and continue to operate in a robust manner in both generations of these families.
Landscape connectivity and conservation prioritization for an old forest species with limited vagility
Authors: Linnell M. A. , Lesmeister D. B.
Published: April 2019

Old forests are often patchily distributed in contemporary forested landscapes leading to conservation concerns for species dependent on these forest types. In the absence of broad‐scale recovery of old forests, conservation initiatives have emphasized connecting forested landscapes to facilitate movement of genes or individuals. We assessed forest connectivity for a low‐vagile arboreal rodent (red tree vole; Arborimus longicaudus), an obligate of old forests within a distinct population segment that is a candidate for listing under the US Endangered Species Act in the northern Oregon Coast Range (USA). Within the distinct population segment, old forests (>80 years old) have contracted by >80% in the previous century, comprise 10.9% of the contemporary landscape and reside in a matrix of young forests (20–80 years old). We combined complimentary graph and circuit theory metrics into spatial conservation prioritization to provide insights into the composition and function of the contemporary forested landscape and to identify potential conservation and research priorities for this area. Given average distances from patches of old forests (3.4 km), we predicted that connectivity can only be achieved if red tree voles move and settle iteratively through young forest matrix, which is suboptimal habitat. We found that the top 1% conservation priorities were a series of small, spatially central patches and several large patches located where old forest cover was most extensive. Most of these patches were in protected reserves. Up to 30% of the top 10% prioritization were forests outside of reserves, highlighting the potential for these forests to contribute to landscape connectivity for this low‐vagile species that is dependent on old forest.
Pollen exposure at birth and adolescent lung function, and modification by residential greenness
Authors: Lambert Katrina A. , Lodge Caroline , Lowe Adrian J. , Prendergast Luke A. , Thomas Paul S. , Bennett Catherine M. , Abramson Michael J. , Dharmage Shyamali C. , Erbas Bircan
Published: April 2019

Background

Exposure to high levels of pollen in infancy is a risk factor for allergic respiratory diseases in later childhood, but effects on lung function are not fully understood. We aim to examine associations between grass pollen exposure in the first months of life and lung function at 12 and 18 years, and explore potential modification.

Methods

Using the Melbourne Atopy Cohort Study, a birth cohort of children with a family history of allergic diseases, we modeled the association between cumulative grass pollen exposure up to 3 months after birth, on FEV1, FVC, and FEV1/FVC ratio at 12 and 18 years. We also assessed modifying effects of residential greenness levels (derived from satellite imagery), asthma, and early life sensitization to ryegrass.

Results

Grass pollen exposure in the first 7 days was associated with a reduction in FEV1 (−15.5 mL; 95% CI: −27.6, −3.3 per doubling of pollen count) and FVC (−20.8 mL; −35.4, −6.1) at 12 years, but not at 18 years. Increase in cumulative grass pollen exposure up to 3 months was negatively associated with FVC at 12 and 18. Exposure to high residential greenness modified the association at 18 years.

Conclusion

Early exposure to grass pollen was associated with decreased lung function in children and adolescents. Targeted interventions for pollen avoidance strategies that take into account local topography could be implemented alongside other clinical interventions such as immunotherapy.
School leaders’ practices for innovative use of digital technologies in schools
Authors: Håkansson Lindqvist Marcia
Published: April 2019

School leaders’ practices to support the innovative use of digital technologies for teaching and learning and the conditions for technology‐enhanced learning were studied in a 1:1 laptop initiative in two schools over a period of 3 years in Umeå, Sweden. The aim of this paper is to explore, analyze and discuss the possibilities and challenges in the final phase of this 1:1 initiative from the perspective of the school leader. The school leaders saw possibilities in new methods of working, sharing and collaboration, and created a beneficial environment for the use of digital technologies in teaching. The challenges were technical problems, supporting teachers in their work, and finding time to prioritize leadership for the use of digital technologies. How school organizers support school leaders’ practices in creating beneficial conditions for technology‐enhanced learning will be important for how school leaders’ practices support, promote, and advance innovative and sustainable teaching and learning environments through the use of digital technologies.
Inactivation of endothelial adenosine A2A receptors protects mice from cerebral ischaemia‐induced brain injury
Authors: Zhou Yaqi , Zeng Xianqiu , Li Ge , Yang Qiuhua , Xu Jiean , Zhang Min , Mao Xiaoxiao , Cao Yapeng , Wang Lina , Xu Yiming , Wang Yong , Zhang Yu , Xu Zhengshuang , Wu Chaodong , Chen Jiang‐Fan , Hoda Md Nasrul , Liu Zhiping , Hong Mei , Huo Yuqing
Published: April 2019

Background and Purpose

Inactivation of the gene for adenosine A2A receptors (ADORA2A for humans and Adora2a for rodents) protects against brain injury in experimental stroke. However, the cell‐specific pathogenic effects of A2A receptors in thromboembolic stroke and the underlying mechanisms remain undefined. Here, we tested the hypothesis that inhibition of endothelial A2A receptors after thromboembolic stroke improves post‐stroke outcomes via down‐regulation of inflammation.

Experimental Approach

Thromboembolic stroke was induced by embolic middle cerebral artery occlusion in mice. Post‐stroke outcomes were determined with neurological deficit scoring, infarct volume, inflammatory marker expression, brain leukocyte infiltration, blood–brain barrier (BBB) leakage, and oedema assessment. Anti‐inflammatory effects of silencing the gene for A2A receptors or pharmacological antagonism of these receptors were assessed in vitro.

Key Results

Thromboembolic stroke induced Adora2a expression in the brain. Mice globally deficient in Adora2a (Adora2a−/−) were resistant to stroke injury. Mice specifically deficient in endothelial Adora2a (Adora2aΔVEC) showed reduced leukocyte infiltration, BBB leakage, and oedema after stroke, along with attenuated downstream proinflammatory markers, both in vivo and in vitro. The A2A receptor antagonist, KW 6002, also reduced brain injury and inflammation after stroke. Inactivation of ADORA2A inhibited endothelial inflammation via suppression of the NLRP3 inflammasome, down‐regulating cleaved caspase 1 and IL‐1β expression.

Conclusions and Implications

Specific inactivation of endothelial A2A receptors mitigated ischaemic brain injury and improved post‐stroke outcomes, at least partly, through anti‐inflammatory effects via blockade of NLRP3 inflammasome activity. Our findings may open new approaches to vascular protection after ischaemic stroke.
Stimulation of β‐adrenoceptors up‐regulates cardiac expression of galectin‐3 and BIM through the Hippo signalling pathway
Authors: Zhao Wei‐Bo , Lu Qun , Nguyen My‐Nhan , Su Yidan , Ziemann Mark , Wang Li‐Na , Kiriazis Helen , Puthalakath Hamsa , Sadoshima Junichi , Hu Hou‐Yuan , Du Xiao‐Jun
Published: April 2019

Background and Purpose

Expression of the pro‐fibrotic galectin‐3 and the pro‐apoptotic BIM is elevated in diseased heart or after β‐adrenoceptor stimulation, but the underlying mechanisms are unclear. This question was addressed in the present study.

Experimental Approach

Wild‐type mice and mice with cardiac transgenic expression of β2‐adrenoceptors, mammalian sterile‐20 like kinase 1 (Mst1) or dominant‐negative Mst1, and non‐specific galectin‐3 knockout mice were used. Effects of the β‐adrenoceptor agonist isoprenaline or β‐adrenoceptor antagonists were studied. Rat cardiomyoblasts (H9c2) were used for mechanistic exploration. Biochemical assays were performed.

Key Results

Isoprenaline treatment up‐regulated expression of galectin‐3 and BIM, and this was inhibited by non‐selective or selective β‐adrenoceptor antagonists (by 60–70%). Cardiac expression of galectin‐3 and BIM was increased in β2‐adrenoceptor transgenic mice. Isoprenaline‐induced up‐regulation of galectin‐3 and BIM was attenuated by Mst1 inactivation, but isoprenaline‐induced galectin‐3 expression was exaggerated by transgenic Mst1 activation. Pharmacological or genetic activation of β‐adrenoceptors induced Mst1 expression and yes‐associated protein (YAP) phosphorylation. YAP hyper‐phosphorylation was also evident in Mst1 transgenic hearts with up‐regulated expression of galectin‐3 (40‐fold) and BIM as well as up‐regulation of many YAP‐target genes by RNA sequencing. In H9c2 cells, isoprenaline induced YAP phosphorylation and expression of galectin‐3 and BIM, effects simulated by forskolin but abolished by PKA inhibitors, and YAP knockdown induced expression of galectin‐3 and BIM.

Conclusions and Implications

Stimulation of cardiac β‐adrenoceptors activated the Mst1/Hippo pathway leading to YAP hyper‐phosphorylation with enhanced expression of galectin‐3 and BIM. This signalling pathway would have therapeutic potential.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed section on Adrenoceptors—New Roles for Old Players. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v176.14/issuetoc
Management of primary graft failure after heart transplantation: Preoperative risks, perioperative events, and postoperative decisions
Authors: Truby Lauren K. , DeRoo Scott , Spellman Jessica , Jennings Douglas L. , Takeda Koji , Fine Barry , Restaino Susan , Farr Maryjane
Published: April 2019

Primary graft failure (PGF) after heart transplantation (HT) is a devastating and unexpected event characterized by failure of the graft to adequately support recipient circulation necessitating high doses of vasopressors and inotropes and/or temporary mechanical circulatory support. Although it represents an increasingly common event in the current era, there remains a high degree of variability in prevalence, reported risk factors, and approach to this clinical entity. The purpose of the current review is to highlight preoperative considerations including known incidence and risk factors, perioperative issues involving the identification and management of PGF, and postoperative decisions related to weaning of mechanical circulatory support and titration of immunosuppressive therapy. Lastly, we highlight future directions in PGF research, involving basic and translational research, that have the potential to uncover novel strategies of risk stratification and treatment.

Case

Our patient is a 53‐year‐old man with end‐stage non‐ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy complicated by ventricular tachycardia (VT), post‐capillary pulmonary hypertension, and renal insufficiency. After progressing to NYHA Class IV symptoms, he underwent implantation of a durable left ventricular assist device (LVAD) as bridge to transplant (BTT). On device support, he developed recurrent VT resulting in multiple defibrillator discharges and hospital admission for intravenous anti‐arrhythmic therapy. He is subsequently upgraded to a higher status on the waiting list. A suitable donor is identified, with an appropriate predicted heart mass and an anticipated ischemic time of <4 hours. He is taken to the operating room, where at the time of anesthesia induction he develops vasodilatory shock, requiring high‐dose vasopressors, and cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) support for dissection. After surgical anastomosis, cross clamp removal and reperfusion, graft function is extremely poor, there is significant bradycardia requiring pacing, and the patient is unable to be weaned successfully from CPB. Venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA‐ECMO) is initiated, and the patient is transferred to the intensive care unit. Retrospective flow crossmatch is negative. This patient is suffering from severe primary graft failure.
Cézanne on the Banks of the Marne
Authors: Guyer Paul
Published: April 2019

The purpose of philosophical aesthetics is not to dictate rules for the evaluation of works of art, but to provide theories of our valuation of art, that is, accounts of the ways in which we value art that can illuminate our experience of it. A sample of what philosophers and philosophical critics over the years, such as R.G. Collingwood, Maurice‐Merleau Ponty, and Clive Bell, have had to say about the painting of Cezanne shows the variety of ways in which we can experience painting such as his, and a work like the Art Galley of New South Wales's beautiful On the Banks of the Marne shows the benefits of a pluralistic rather than monistic approach to the experience of art.
The Task of Art Criticism
Authors: Kassman‐Tod Joseph
Published: April 2019

The purpose of this paper is to advance our understanding of the task of art criticism. My proposal will be guided by reflection on the following question: if art criticism involves an effort of entering‐in, getting at how and why the artwork matters, then where does this effort cease to be an act of discovery and veer into something added in? I argue that the critic must be interested in both (1) possibilities of sense‐making not taken up by the artist's sense‐making community but that are made available in our engagement with the work of art, and (2) the way that the possibilities for enriched understanding set up by the artwork can be interpreted by us, in ways that matter to us. The task of the critic is to articulate their interpretation of these possibilities.
Non‐Figurative Art in Russia in the Late 20th to 21st Centuries
Authors: Zijing Wu , Blinova Elena K.
Published: April 2019

The article explores Russian non‐figurative art as an overlooked dimension in art history and the role that work played in global art history. Special attention is given to identifying theoretical and practical aspects of the interaction between philosophy and art as specific types of spirituality, understanding their special role in worldview searches of contemporary humans, the formation of a new worldview paradigm. The practical significance of the results obtained consists of the possibility of their use in educational activities, in particular, in preparation of lecture courses on the history of Russian art of the 20th century, as well as the development of special courses on issues of contemporary fine and visual arts in art academies. The materials in the study present practical value for the formation of museum collections and the holding of exhibitions.
Uranium diffusion and time‐dependent adsorption–desorption in soil: A model and experimental testing of the model
Authors: Darmovzalova Jana , Boghi Andrea , Otten Wilfred , Eades Lorna J. , Roose Tiina , Kirk Guy J. D.
Published: April 2019

Most past research on uranium (U) transport and reaction in the environment has been concerned with groundwater contamination and not with uptake by plants or soil biota, both of which operate over much smaller time and distance scales. We developed and tested a model of U diffusion and reaction in soil at scales appropriate for uptake by plant roots, based on a model we developed in an earlier paper. The model allows for the speciation of U with hydroxyl, carbonate and organic ligands in the soil solution, and the nature and kinetics of sorption reactions with the soil solid. The model predictions were compared with experimentally measured concentration–distance profiles of U in soil adjusted to different pHs and CO2 pressures. Excellent agreement between observed and predicted profiles was obtained using model input parameters measured or otherwise estimated independently of the concentration–distance profiles, showing that the model was a correct description of the system and all important processes were allowed for. The importance of the kinetics of U adsorption and desorption for the timescale of diffusion through the soil is highlighted. The results are discussed in terms of the uptake of U by plant root systems, as modelled in the earlier paper.

Highlights

We developed a model of U diffusion and reaction in soil on scales relevant to uptake by plant roots.

We tested the model against measured diffusion profiles and obtained excellent agreement.

The kinetics of U adsorption–desorption reactions are important.

Reaction kinetics measured in shaken suspensions or flow‐through systems are likely to be misleading.
Effect of initial soil water content and bulk density on the infiltration and desalination of melting saline ice water in coastal saline soil
Authors: Guo Kai , Liu Xiaojing
Published: April 2019

Laboratory experiments were conducted to investigate the infiltration of melting saline ice water into coastal saline soil with different initial water contents and bulk densities, together with the redistribution of water, salt and salt leaching after infiltration. Three water contents (5, 10 and 15% at a soil bulk density of 1.3 g cm−3) and three bulk density levels (1.2, 1.3 and 1.4 g cm−3 of air‐dry soil) of saline soil were used, with salt‐free ice comprising the control treatment. The results showed that the depth of infiltration with treatment by saline ice was greater than that of salt‐free ice, and increased as the initial soil water content and bulk density decreased. After infiltration, the soil water content in the upper soil layers increased with increasing initial soil water contents and bulk densities. This trend was reversed in the deeper soil layers. After infiltration of the melting ice water, the saline ice treatment resulted in a smaller soil salt content than the salt‐free ice treatment. The salt contents in the upper soil layers decreased with decreasing initial soil water contents and bulk densities. The largest rate of desalting was observed following infiltration of the melting saline ice water into the coastal saline soil with the smallest soil water content and bulk density. These results indicate that although a similar infiltration process was observed when the melting saline ice water and direct saline water infiltrated the saline soil with different soil water contents and bulk densities, the desalting effect of infiltration of the melting saline ice water was greater than that of infiltration of direct saline water and melting salt‐free ice water. Smaller initial water content and bulk density favoured salt leaching under the infiltration of melting saline ice water.

Highlights

We evaluated infiltration and soil desalination under melting saline ice into saline soil

Rate of infiltration and depth increased with decreasing initial soil water content and bulk density.

Soil water content in the top soil layer increased with increasing initial water content and bulk density.

Rate of desalting increased with decrease in initial water content and bulk density under infiltration of melting saline ice water.
Structures and interactions of syndecans
Authors: Gondelaud Frank , Ricard‐Blum Sylvie
Published: April 2019

The four syndecans identified in mammals are membrane proteoglycans that play major roles in regulating cell behavior, cell signaling, and cell‐matrix interactions. The membrane forms of these syndecans function as receptors and co‐receptors. Their ectodomains, which are proteolytically released in the extracellular matrix by shedding, also regulate various biological processes. Apart from the cytoplasmic domain of syndecan‐4, the 3D structures of syndecans are poorly characterized, which hinders our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying syndecan functions that are mediated by numerous interactions. This mini‐review summarizes the structural data that are available for syndecans and provides a comprehensive syndecan interactome, which comprises three hundred and fifty‐one partners, including those identified by the high‐throughput method affinity purification‐mass spectrometry. It also gives a perspective on future studies of syndecan structures and interactions, which are required to further elucidate the molecular recognition processes that mediate the biological roles of the membrane and shed forms of syndecans.
Increase trend in the prevalence and male‐to‐female ratio of primary biliary cholangitis, autoimmune hepatitis, and primary sclerosing cholangitis in Japan
Authors: Tanaka Atsushi , Mori Mitsuru , Matsumoto Kosuke , Ohira Hiromasa , Tazuma Susumu , Takikawa Hajime
Published: April 2019

Aim

Autoimmune liver diseases (AILD) including autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) impose a significant burden on public health, and it is important to estimate their prevalence. We carried out a nationwide, hospital‐based, epidemiological survey of AIH, PBC, and PSC, and compared the results with those from previous surveys.

Method

We randomly selected health‐care facilities used in the survey from a list of all facilities in Japan. The selection rate was determined according to a stratification based on the facility characteristics and scale. We sent questionnaires to the selected facilities enquiring about the number and sex of patients with AILD who visited the facility in 2016. An identical survey was undertaken for AIH/PBC in 2004 and for PSC in 2007; we carried out a comparative analysis of these data.

Results

We selected 1793 departments from health centers all over Japan. Of them, 1078 (60.1%) responded to the questionnaires. The number of reported patients with AIH, PBC, and PSC was 8505, 10 847, and 906, respectively, and point prevalence was 23.9 (95% confidence interval, 23.3–24.5) for AIH (8.7 in 2004), 33.8 (33.0–34.6) for PBC (11.6 in 2004), and 1.80 (1.75–1.85) for PSC (0.95 in 2007) per 100 000 population. Male‐to‐female patient ratio of AILD was 1:4.3 for AIH (1:6.9 in 2004), 1:3.9 for PBC (1:7.1 in 2004), and 1:0.88 for PSC (1:1.4 in 2007).

Conclusion

The current study indicates an increasing trend of prevalence as well as male‐to‐female patient ratio of AILD in Japan.
The impact of orphan drug policies in treating rare diseases
Authors: Weerasooriya Shalini U.
Published: April 2019

This paper is based on Shalini Weerasooriya's Masters dissertation in Public Health at the University of Sheffield. A literature review was conducted to understand the role that orphan drug policies have played in the development of new treatments for rare diseases. The impacts of the policies were categorised as ‘tangible’ or ‘intangible’ and further synthesis identified 10 main themes such as incentives for investment, criteria for eligibility and assessment of drug applications and further guidance to industry during the drug development cycle. The review concludes that whilst policies have contributed positively towards improving the research and development of orphan drugs it has not exhausted its uses and must now shift its focus to facilitating greater accessibility and affordability of the treatments and that stakeholders are essential to the success of this process. Implications for practice are identified, for example the need to further update and refine the policy with changing demographics and advancing technologies and, in particular, greater collaboration and involvement through, for example, evidence based training programmes is recommended. It is concluded that focus must shift to address the gap between having available drugs and being able to access and afford them.

F.J.
Interfacial reaction during co‐sintering of lithium manganese nickel oxide and lithium aluminum germanium phosphate
Authors: Deiner L. Jay , Howell Thomas G. , Koenig Gary M. , Rottmayer Michael A.
Published: April 2019

Understanding interface evolution during co‐sintering of solid Li‐ion conducting electrolytes and Li‐metal oxide cathodes is crucial to development of solid state batteries. In this work, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and thermal gravimetric analysis/differential scanning calorimetry (TGA/DSC) document changes at the lithium manganese nickel oxide (LMNO)/lithium aluminum germanium phosphate interface during sintering. Measurements are performed as a function of sintering gas environment (air vs N2). Upon sintering, manganese is reduced from +4 to a mixture of +4, +3, and +2, while nickel is oxidized from +2 to a mixture of +2 and +3. The Mn2+ species does not arise when LMNO is sintered alone. XRD identifies formation of new chemical phases, LiGe0.5M0.5PO4 (where M = Mn3+ or Ni3+), AlPO4, and NiMn2O4, also not observed when LMNO is sintered alone. The emergence of resistive interfacial phases may offset the increase in conductivity expected when Mn3+ is formed.
Bioactive behavior of mesoporous silica particle (MCM‐41) coated bioactive glass‐based scaffolds
Authors: Boccardi Elena , Liverani Liliana , Boccaccini Aldo R.
Published: April 2019

A complete characterization of a novel family of multifunctional bioactive glass (45S5 composition) (BG)‐based scaffolds for bone tissue engineering is presented. Scaffolds were developed via replication method of polyurethane packaging foam and natural marine sponge “Spongia Agaricina”. In order to increase the therapeutic functionality, the scaffolds were coated with mesoporous silica particles (MCM‐41), which can act as drug delivery carrier, increase the bioactivity of the combined system and release Si ions, essential for the gene stimulation of osteoblast cells and for inducing new bone matrix formation. The MCM‐41 particles were synthetized directly inside the scaffolds (CCM) or after the synthesis they were dispersed in ethanol and used for impregnation (PCM) of the scaffolds. The effect of the particles on the bioactivity of the scaffolds was assessed in simulated body fluid (SBF) for up to 7 days. The results indicate the possibility to obtain a multifunctional BG‐scaffold system with enhanced bioactivity and reduced pH increase when in contact with physiological fluids.
The Footloose Entrepreneur model with a finite number of equidistant regions
Authors: Gaspar José M. , Castro Sofia B.S.D. , Correia‐da‐Silva João
Published: April 2019

We study the Footloose Entrepreneur model with a finite number of equidistant regions, focusing on the analysis of stability of agglomeration, total dispersion, and boundary dispersion. As the number of regions increases, there is more tendency for agglomeration and less tendency for dispersion. As it tends to infinity, agglomeration always becomes stable while dispersion always becomes unstable. These results are robust to any composition of the global workforce and its dependence on the number of regions. Numerical evidence suggests that boundary dispersion is never stable. We introduce exogenous regional heterogeneity and obtain a general condition for stability of agglomeration.
Quality in Focus: A Q&A with the Forensic Science Regulator for England and Wales
Authors: Tarran Brian
Published: April 2019

Dr Gillian Tully is responsible for setting quality standards for forensic science in the criminal justice system of England and Wales. She tells Brian Tarran about her role and her work with statisticians to set standards for the evaluative interpretation of evidence
Robust super‐hydrophobic ceramic coating on alumina with water and dirt repelling properties
Authors: Li Yanan , Gu Jianqiang , Wang Junwei , Xu Xin , Winnubst Louis , Chen Chusheng
Published: April 2019

Artificial super‐hydrophobic surfaces are required for various applications. The super‐hydrophobic surfaces are usually made by applying a low surface‐energy organic coating on a highly textured substrate. A major problem with the as‐created surfaces is their poor durability. This problem is even severer for the surfaces created by applying the organic coating on inorganic substrates. The present study reports for the first time the all‐inorganic super‐hydrophobic surface created by modifying the inorganic substrates with polymer‐derived inorganic coating. A polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) film was applied to an alumina substrate having flower‐like hierarchal micro‐nano surface texture, and then subjected to pyrolysis at 400°C in a nonoxidizing atmosphere. As a result, a SixCyOz ceramic coating with low‐surface energy methyl groups was formed on the alumina substrate. The as‐modified alumina exhibited super‐hydrophobicity with a water contact angle of 170° and a sliding angle of 5°. The super‐hydrophobicity was well retained after abrasion with sandpaper and exposure to boiling water and acidic solution. The super‐hydrophobic alumina demonstrated desired water repelling and self‐cleaning function. The method explored in this study could also be used for super‐hydrophobic surface modification of other inorganic materials such as glass and metals.
Noncompliance with non‐accounting securities regulations and GAAP violations
Authors: Choi Sunhwa , Young Steven , Zhang Xiu‐Ye
Published: April 2019

Using enforcement actions by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as a proxy for noncompliance with securities regulations, we examine whether a firm's compliance with non‐accounting laws and regulations is associated with GAAP violations. We find that firms that violate securities regulations related to non‐accounting issues are more likely to report accounting restatements than control firms that comply with securities regulations. We also find that the difference between the two groups is significant only for the periods subsequent to the start of the noncompliance period but not for periods prior to this date. Our results highlight the interrelation between the accounting and compliance systems, and suggest that managers who are non‐compliant with non‐accounting regulations are also more likely to be non‐compliant with accounting rules.
IRF3 and IRF7 mediate neovascularization via inflammatory cytokines
Authors: Simons Karin H. , de Vries Margreet R. , de Jong Rob C. M. , Peters Hendrika A. B. , Jukema J. Wouter , Quax Paul H. A.
Published: April 2019

Objective

To elucidate the role of interferon regulatory factor (IRF)3 and IRF7 in neovascularization.

Methods

Unilateral hind limb ischaemia was induced in Irf3−/−, Irf7−/− and C57BL/6 mice by ligation of the left common femoral artery. Post‐ischaemic blood flow recovery in the paw was measured with laser Doppler perfusion imaging. Soleus, adductor and gastrocnemius muscles were harvested to investigate angiogenesis and arteriogenesis and inflammation.

Results

Post‐ischaemic blood flow recovery was decreased in Irf3−/− and Irf7−/− mice compared to C57BL/6 mice at all time points up to and including sacrifice, 28 days after surgery (t28). This was supported by a decrease in angiogenesis and arteriogenesis in soleus and adductor muscles of Irf3−/− and Irf7−/− mice at t28. Furthermore, the number of macrophages around arterioles in adductor muscles was decreased in Irf3−/− and Irf7−/− mice at t28. In addition, mRNA expression levels of pro‐inflammatory cytokines (tnfα, il6, ccl2) and growth factor receptor (vegfr2), were decreased in gastrocnemius muscles of Irf3−/− and Irf7−/− mice compared to C57BL/6 mice.

Conclusion

Deficiency of IRF3 and IRF7 results in impaired post‐ischaemic blood flow recovery caused by attenuated angiogenesis and arteriogenesis linked to a lack of inflammatory components in ischaemic tissue. Therefore, IRF3 and IRF7 are essential regulators of neovascularization.