bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ship-based MAX-DOAS measurements of tropospheric NO2, SO2, and HCHO distribution along the Yangtze River
Authors: Hong Qianqian , Liu Cheng , Chan Ka Lok , Hu Qihou , Xie Zhouqing , Liu Haoran , Si Fuqi , Liu Jianguo
Published: April 2018

Abstract. In this paper, we present ship-based Multi-Axis Differential Optical
Absorption Spectroscopy (MAX-DOAS) measurements of tropospheric trace gases'
distribution along the Yangtze River during winter 2015. The measurements
were performed along the Yangtze River between Shanghai and Wuhan, covering
major industrial areas in eastern China. Tropospheric vertical column
densities (VCDs) of nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2),
and formaldehyde (HCHO) were retrieved using the air mass factor calculated
by the radiative transfer model. Enhanced tropospheric NO2 and SO2
VCDs were detected over downwind areas of industrial zones over the Yangtze
River. In addition, spatial distributions of atmospheric pollutants are
strongly affected by meteorological conditions; i.e., positive correlations
were found between concentration of pollutants and wind speed over these
areas, indicating strong influence of transportation of pollutants from
high-emission upwind areas along the Yangtze River. Comparison of tropospheric
NO2 VCDs between ship-based MAX-DOAS and Ozone Monitoring Instrument
(OMI) satellite observations shows good agreement with each other, with a
Pearson correlation coefficient (R) of 0.82. In this study, the
NO2 ∕ SO2 ratio was used to estimate the relative contributions
of industrial sources and vehicle emissions to ambient NO2 levels.
Analysis results of the NO2 ∕ SO2 ratio show a higher
contribution of industrial NO2 emissions in Jiangsu Province, while
NO2 levels in Jiangxi and Hubei provinces are mainly related to vehicle
emissions. These results indicate that different pollution control strategies
should be applied in different provinces. In addition, multiple linear
regression analysis of ambient carbon monoxide (CO) and odd oxygen (Ox)
indicated that the primary emission and secondary formation of HCHO
contribute 54.4 ± 3.7 % and 39.3 ± 4.3 % to the ambient
HCHO, respectively. The largest contribution from primary emissions in winter
suggested that photochemically induced secondary formation of HCHO is reduced
due to lower solar irradiance in winter. Our findings provide an improved
understanding of major pollution sources along the eastern part of the
Yangtze River which are useful for designing specific air pollution control
policies.
Short-range solar radiation forecasts over Sweden
Authors: Landelius Tomas , Lindskog Magnus , Körnich Heiner , Andersson Sandra
Published: April 2018

Abstract. In this article the performance for short-range solar radiation forecasts by
the global deterministic and ensemble models from the European Centre for
Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) is compared with an ensemble of the
regional mesoscale model HARMONIE-AROME used by the national meteorological
services in Sweden, Norway and Finland. Note however that only the control
members and the ensemble means are included in the comparison. The models
resolution differs considerably with 18 km for the ECMWF ensemble, 9 km for
the ECMWF deterministic model, and 2.5 km for the HARMONIE-AROME ensemble. The models share the same radiation code. It turns out that they all
underestimate systematically the Direct Normal Irradiance (DNI) for clear-sky
conditions. Except for this shortcoming, the HARMONIE-AROME ensemble model
shows the best agreement with the distribution of observed Global Horizontal
Irradiance (GHI) and DNI values. During mid-day the HARMONIE-AROME ensemble
mean performs best. The control member of the HARMONIE-AROME ensemble also
scores better than the global deterministic ECMWF model. This is an
interesting result since mesoscale models have so far not shown good results
when compared to the ECMWF models. Three days with clear, mixed and cloudy skies are used to illustrate the
possible added value of a probabilistic forecast. It is shown that in these
cases the mesoscale ensemble could provide decision support to a grid
operator in terms of forecasts of both the amount of solar power and its
probabilities.
Give me five! – reasons for two-way communication between experts and citizens in relation to air pollution risk
Authors: Loroño-Leturiondo Maria , O'Hare Paul , Cook Simon , Hoon Stephen R. , Illingworth Sam
Published: April 2018

Abstract. Air pollution is a major environmental concern for many populations
worldwide. Communication efforts so far have been based on a one-way
provision of evidence and information from experts to society, and have
arguably failed in their mission to foster a more aware and engaged society,
or to result in cleaner air. Globally we are facing both an air quality
crisis and a communication emergency. This paper focuses on the communication
of air pollution risk, from the threats it poses (e.g. severe impacts to
human health) to the opportunities it can create (e.g. behavioural or
technological alternatives that lead to cleaner air). It supports the case
for moving away from one-way communication, and identifies five key benefits
of a practical two-way communication between experts and citizens in order to
engender positive change and improve global air quality.
Los incentivos tributarios para las cooperativas financieras de Colombia, Costa Rica y México
Authors: Lara Gómez Graciela
Published: April 2018

Con el presente artículo se busca identificar cuáles son los incentivos tributarios para las cooperativas financieras que se incluyen en las legislaciones de Colombia, Costa Rica y México. Para tal efecto se recurrió al método de investigación comparativo, estableciendo las similitudes y divergencias en los sistemas fiscales estudiados; destacando el tratamiento para fines del Impuesto Sobre la Renta y los impuestos al consumo (Impuesto General Sobre las Ventas e Impuesto al Valor Agregado). Los resultados muestran que dichas sociedades gozan de tratamientos fiscales preferentes en las tres naciones, integrando en sus leyes fiscales exenciones y reducciones de impuestos que en sí mismos no constituyen privilegios, sino la manifestación de la justicia tributaria.
EQUIPES DE SAÚDE DA FAMÍLIA E SUAS ESTRATÉGIAS PARA PROTEÇÃO DO SOFRIMENTO NO TRABALHO
Authors: Glanzner Cecilia Helena , Olschowsky Agnes , Duarte Maria de Lourdes Custódio
Published: April 2018

OBJETIVO: Analisar quais as estratégias defensivas que profissionais de equipes de Saúde da Família utilizam para se proteger do sofrimento no trabalho na perspectiva da Psicodinâmica do Trabalho. MÉTODO: Trata-se de um um estudo com abordagem qualitativa, descritiva, analítica realizado em três unidades de saúde do sul do Brasil que foram selecionadas intencionalmente. Participaram do estudo todos os profissionais das equipes, totalizando 68 profissionais. As informações foram coletadas por observação e entrevistas coletivas, analisadas conforme Minayo, emergindo duas categorias: estratégias coletivas de defesa e individuais. RESULTADOS: Na primeira categoria, os profissionais apontaram o compartilhamento do trabalho em reuniões; e como estratégias individuais negação, racionalização e reconhecimento. CONSIDERAÇÕES FINAIS:  Os profissionais têm buscado estratégias de enfrentamento do sofrimento, utilizando seus recursos internos e do coletivo para enfrentá-lo,  transformando-o em prazer e saúde.
Trends of the Arabic Research on the Nature of Science
Authors: Alhamlan Suad , Aljasser Haya , Almajed Asma , Omar Sozan Hussain
Published: April 2018

The paper investigates the trends of the Arabic research with the emphasis on the nature of science. Hence, a descriptive analytical approach, both qualitative and quantitative forms, was used to explore 42 online journals and articles. The research sample was defined by online journals and articles cover the question of the Nature of Science (NOS) in the Arabic setting. The data collection tool has implemented a content analysis checklist that contains three sections the fields of study section, the subjects of each field, as well as methods and procedures. The results taken from the data analysis have shown that most Arabic researchers focus on the curriculum, teaching and learning environments and their improvement, the use of new teaching methods, students’ understanding of NOS, as well as teacher’s knowledge and teaching strategies. Also, many researchers have used descriptive methods and techniques. The research findings suggest that Arabic NOS has been done by teaching science through education. The paper provides recommendations to ensure greater government involvement in establishing science centers that attract graduating students in science learning and relevant projects.
Effects of Software Piracy on Economic Growth
Authors: Nobre Fernandez Rodrigo , Garcia Ribeiro Felipe , Del Ponte Duarte Jean Marcel
Published: April 2018

This study investigates the effects of software piracy on economic growth around the world for the years 2000 to 2014, using panel data structure with fixed effects to capture this relationship, plus year dummies. Our findings suggest, in general, that software piracy has a negative impact on growth and that this relationship seems to be non-linear.
On a Class of Variance Balanced Designs
Authors: Ghosh D. K. , Ghosh Shreya , C. Sinohjia Narenrda
Published: April 2018

This paper discusses the method of construction of Variance balanced designs using (i) factorial designs and (ii) some incidence matrix. Further the discussion also involves the efficiency criteria of Variance balanced designs. We have also carried out some properties of Variance balanced designs. This study has been supported by suitable examples.
FACTORS SHAPING ECONOMIC SITUATION OF FAR MS ENGAGED IN RAPESEED
PRODUCTION
Authors: Bełdycka-Bórawska Aneta
Published: April 2018

The paper presents the diversity of production and economic results of holdings engaged in the growing
of rapeseed. The study was conducted throughout the country in 141 farms. The basis for qualifying
holding to the study was to obtain a minimum of 50% of revenues from the sale of rape and expression
by the farmer consent to participate in the study. During the testing the method of questionnaire was
used, and in the process of analyzing the results of the research the tabular, graphical and descriptive
methods were used. The research shows that the highest efficiency reached the farm with the largest
area of cultivation of rapeseed. The concentration of rapeseed production has contributed to improve
the efficiency of farms. Among the factors affecting the level of farm incomes were those concerning the
resources of farms and old farmers.
BUYERS’ BEHAVIOR ON THE MARKET OF ORGANIC PRODUCTS
Authors: Grębowiec Mariusz
Published: April 2018

The main purpose of running a business is to maintain a certain level of sales for offered products or
services. Succeeding in sales is the result of locating buyers of the company’s target products and reaching
them with the offer. This study presents the results of research, the main purpose of which was to identify
the factors that shape consumer behavior on the market of organic products. The research was carried
out using a questionnaire using the Internet. The survey was attended by 205 respondents selected in a
targeted manner from the inhabitants of the Warsaw agglomeration who were the purchasers of ecological
products. The largest barriers that prevent the purchase of these products by consumers are also presented.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES OF SPECIALIZATION OF FARMS
Authors: Harasim Adam
Published: April 2018

The aim of the study was to determine the impact of various types of farms on the environment. The
research was carried out in the years 2011-2016 on farms grouped according to the leading production
direction. The assessment of the environmental impact of farms was made on the basis of 10 agro-ecological
indicators. Pig farms, which were characterized by unfavorable (excessive) balances of nutrients and soil
organic matter were the greatest threat to the environment (due to water pollution). Farms with arable
field crops contributed to lowering soil fertility as they had the negative balances of nutrients. Farms with
a mixed production profile and dairy farms with optimal stocking density (about 1 LU /ha UAA ) were the
smallest threat to the environment and fertility of soils.
EFFECTS OF THE EU BIOFUEL USE DIRECTIVE ON THE RURAL AREA DEVELOPMENT IN POLAND
Authors: Klepacka Anna Maria , Mączyńska Joanna
Published: April 2018

The directives obligating the use of renewable energy in transport stimulate the biofuels demand. The aim of the paper was to review the impact of EU directives related to biofuel use on the rural area development in Poland. The research scope covered the rapeseed oil methyl ester production in Poland from 2011 through 2017. The study applies the descriptive comparative methods based on the subject literature as well as data from KOWR, GUS, and PSPO. The findings indicate that the biofuel production not only allows for diversification of energy used in transportation, but also constitutes an important element of the development of rural area. In Poland, the increase in the biofuel demand is conducive to the increase in the agricultural production profitability and reduces disparities in agriculture income. Moreover, it significantly contributes to the increase of feed components supply due to the rape cake production resulting from the oil pressing.
BRANCHLESS BANKING ACTIVITIES ON RURAL AREAS –
IRREGULARITIES IN RELATIONS WITH CLIENTS
Authors: Mangani Ktut Silvanita , Arifin Bustanul , Idasz-Balina Marta , Juszczyk Sławomir , Syaukat Yusman
Published: April 2018

The aim of the research was to describe the types of irregularities in the branchless activities of banks in rural areas of Indonesia in 2012-2015. In the course of the research it was found that the most common are 7 types of irregularities in the scope of fraud between the local bank representative and generally poor clients in these areas. The article describes these irregularities, which in the end may be facilitation in their reduction or elimination.
THE ROLE OF BIOLOGICAL PROGRESS IN THE INCREASE OF THE YIELD OF SPRING CEREALS IN VARIETAL TESTING IN POLAND
Authors: Wicki Ludwik
Published: April 2018

The growing world population and the increase in the wealth of societies are the reason for the growing demand for food. An important issue is to obtain production growth without excessive increase of use of production inputs. It is possible thanks to biological progress, whose share in creating the growth of plant production in the world is estimated at 40%. The aim of the work is to determine the impact of biological progress on the increase in the yield level of spring cereals in Poland. The analysis was based on the results of post-registration varietal testing for the years 2006-2017. It was found that the yield of varieties of spring cereals increased in the analyzed period by an average of over 15 dt/ha. The share of biological progress in the observed increase ranged from 15% for spring triticale to 38% for spring barley. On average, it was 28% at a lower production intensity level and 23% at a higher intensity level. The importance of biological progress in the increase of yields of spring cereal varieties in Poland is high, and the effective dissemination of new varieties may allow for obtaining more crop production without increasing inputs, if the level of utilization of the varieties’ potential will be higher in agriculture production.
Desdobramentos da extensão universitária na recém criada Universidade Federal de Sergipe (1968- 1980)
Authors: Lima Ana Paula Soares , Souza Josefa Eliana
Published: April 2018

Resumo: Essa pesquisa tem por finalidade analisar o surgimento das atividades de extensão na Universidade Federal de Sergipe (UFS) destacando o quanto essas atividades contribuíram para o enriquecimento de educandos e da instituição em si. O recorte cronológico (1968 - 1980) marca o início da ideia de extensão nas Universidades brasileiras através da lei 5.540/68, em especial a UFS, até 1980 com o ápice, mostrando que a extensão juntamente com a pesquisa e o ensino fazem parte do tripé que constroem uma Universidade moderna. As fontes utilizadas para a construção dessa pesquisa foram a análise de relatórios de gestão da época, ofícios, jornais disponibilizados no Arquivo Central da UFS, monografias, artigos, legislações, além de entrevistas. Os pressupostos teórico - metodológicos relacionam - se aos da história da educação e o impacto que essas atividades extensionistas tiveram no crescimento da UFS.

Palavras – chave: Extensão. Universidade Federal de Sergipe. Lei 5.540/68.
Políticas públicas e a promoção da saúde por meio da leitura: Ler + Dá Saúde!
Authors: Neves Barbara Coelho , Fernandes Patricia
Published: April 2018

O objetivo deste artigo é realizar uma breve revisão do campo de estudos que articula as políticas públicas e a promoção da saúde por meio da leitura. O tema é a política pública para leitura e o objeto é o projeto Ler Dá + Saúde desenvolvido pelo Plano Nacional de Leitura de Portugal (PNL). Tem como objetivos específicos demonstrar a importância da literacia em leitura, discutir algumas das políticas públicas em Portugal, e destacar alguns aspectos do projeto Ler + Dá Saúde. Como metodologia, trata-se de um texto de revisão, e desse modo se constitui do tipo bibliográfica e documental. Utilizou-se dados do portal e sítios eletrônicos do PNL, a exemplo do ‘Ler + Dá Saúde’. Os resultados das observações e discussões com a literatura sobre o tema proposto permitiram concluir que o projeto tem se destacado como proposta social por ser uma política pública que tem visado a convergência da leitura, saúde e família, unindo às tecnologias de informação e comunicação (TIC) e como proposta estratégica do programa PNL para fortalecer a literacia no país.
Role of Interface Interactions in the Construction of GO‐Based Artificial Nacres
Authors: Wan Sijie , Cheng Qunfeng
Published: April 2018

The hierarchical interfacial architecture of nacre inspires the fabrication of novel high performance graphene‐based nanocomposites. Graphene has great promise for applications in aerospace and especially for flexible electronic devices, etc., due to its remarkable mechanical and electrical properties. Thus, it is significant to summarize the role of interface interactions in the construction of nacre‐inspired graphene‐based nanocomposites, which is the distinctive characteristic and important scientific progress of the review. This review first makes a comparison for the interfacial architecture of above biological materials and finds inspiration from nacre to design the interface in graphene‐based nanocomposites, which contains single interface interaction, synergistic interface interactions, and synergistic building blocks. Then, the focus is attached to the effect of different interfacial design strategies on the mechanical and electrical properties of state‐of‐the‐art GO‐based artificial nacres (GANs), including 1D fibers, 2D films, and 3D bulk materials. Additionally, the multifunctional GANs with such functions as fatigue resistance, fire retardant property, and smart nanogating, etc. are also discussed. Moreover, some potential applications and corresponding challenges and solutions of GANs are detailedly summarized. Finally, from the views of theoretical simulation and experimental research, a perspective on the roadmap of GANs in the future is also proposed.
A Stretchable, Flexible Triboelectric Nanogenerator for Self‐Powered Real‐Time Motion Monitoring
Authors: Lu Cunxin , Chen Jian , Jiang Tao , Gu Guangqin , Tang Wei , Wang Zhong Lin
Published: April 2018

Stretchable triboelectric nanogenerators have attracted increasing interests in the field of wearable electronics. In this work, a stretchable and flexible triboelectric nanogenerator (SF‐TENG) with a ladder structure that consists of several single‐electrode TENG units on the elastic rubber substrate is developed. The structural design of the ladder‐shaped SF‐TENG is found to greatly improve the mechanical flexibility and stretching ability under small external force, and it works well even under the elongation of 120% and curvature of 90º. The SF‐TENG with optimized structure can have excellent linear response to tensile force and act as a strain sensor. The sensitivities of output voltage to tensile force and tensile displacement can reach 2.01 V N−1 and 0.0412 V mm−1, respectively. Moreover, a SF‐TENG‐based data glove is fabricated to demonstrate the potential application of such TENG in the human–machine interaction through the stone–paper–scissors game.
A Transfer‐Printed, Stretchable, and Reliable Strain Sensor Using PEDOT:PSS/Ag NW Hybrid Films Embedded into Elastomers
Authors: Fan Xi , Wang Naixiang , Yan Feng , Wang Jinzhao , Song Wei , Ge Ziyi
Published: April 2018

Strain sensors can distinguish diverse deformations of target objects and have promising application as electronic skins, health monitors, soft robotics, etc. However, most of strain sensors suffer from reliability issue along with small strain‐sensing region due to the slippages of conducting components and the relaxation of their underlying elastomers. Here, a strain sensor with a sandwiched structure (i.e., poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene): poly(styrenesulfonate) and Ag nanowires (NWs) are embedded into polydimethylsiloxane) via a transfer‐printing technique is reported. The devices not only show a broad sensing region up to 50% strain with improved sensitivity, but also possess a reliable resistance response with recoverable conductance. The work provides a simple transfer‐printing method to make reliable, stretchable, and sensitive strain sensors for their promising implementation.
“An example for corporate social responsibility”: British American Tobacco's response to criticism of its Myanmar subsidiary, 1999–2003
Authors: MacKenzie Ross
Published: April 2018

In 2013, British American Tobacco (BAT) returned to Myanmar a decade after it had left the country under pressure from civil society, international organizations, and the government of the United Kingdom. The company's involvement in a joint venture with an investment branch of the country's military government between 1999 and 2003 resulted in intense scrutiny and criticism based on the military's record of human rights abuses. BAT argued that corporations could not be held accountable for actions of governments in countries in which it operated, and that its presence in Myanmar contributed to economic and social development. It also maintained that its Myanmar subsidiary provided a model of responsible business conduct. The controversy that surrounded BAT's Myanmar subsidiary between 1999 and 2003 has increasing relevance to the current situation in Myanmar, and potential implications for foreign corporations operating in the country.
Complete plastome sequencing fromToona(Meliaceae) and phylogenomic analyses within Sapindales
Authors: Lin Nan , Moore Michael J. , Deng Tao , Sun Hang , Yang Lin‐sen , Sun Yan‐xia , Wang Heng‐chang
Published: April 2018

Premise of the Study

Toona(Meliaceae, Sapindales) is a small genus of five species of trees native from southern and eastern Asia to New Guinea and Australia. Complete plastomes were sequenced for threeToonaspecies to provide a basis for future plastome genetic studies in threatened species ofToona. In addition, plastome structural evolution and phylogenetic relationships across Sapindales were explored with a larger data set of 29 Sapindales plastomes (including members of six out of nine families).

Methods

The plastomes were determined using the Illumina sequencing platform; the phylogenetic analyses were conducted using maximum likelihood byRAxML.

Results

The lengths of threeToonaplastomes range from 159,185 to 158,196 bp. A total of 113 unique genes were found in each plastome. Across Sapindales, plastome gene structure and content were largely conserved, with the exception of the contraction of the inverted repeat region to excludeycf1in some species of Rutaceae and Sapindaceae, and the movement oftrnI‐GAUandtrnA‐UGCto a position outside the inverted repeat region in some Rutaceae species.

Discussion

The threeToonaplastomes possess the typical structure of angiosperm plastomes. Phylogenomic analysis of Sapindales recovered a mostly strongly supported phylogeny of Sapindales, including most of the backbone relationships, with some improvements compared to previous targeted‐gene analyses.
Integration der Bewehrung beim 3D‐Druck mit Beton
Authors: Mechtcherine Viktor , Nerella Venkatesh Naidu
Published: April 2018

Der digitale Betonbau ist in jüngster Zeit Gegenstand sehr rasch wachsender Forschungsaktivitäten auf der ganzen Welt geworden. Verschiedene Technologien für den 3D‐Druck mit Beton wurden entwickelt; die Anzahl der Demonstrationsprojekte und praktischen Anwendungen hat exponentiell zugenommen. Die häufigsten dieser Ansätze konzentrieren sich auf Beton als solchen, während die vorgeschlagenen Lösungen für die Eingliederung von Bewehrung noch rudimentär sind und hinter den Konzepten für den Druck mit Beton zurückbleiben. Da die Verwendung von (Stahl‐)Bewehrung in den meisten baulichen Anwendungen unerlässlich ist, wird es dringend erforderlich, die Technologie der Bewehrung von 3D‐gedruckten Bauteilen voranzutreiben. Der Beitrag gibt einen kritischen Überblick über den aktuellen Forschungs‐ und Entwicklungsstand hinsichtlich des Bewehrungseinsatzes im digitalen Betonbau und bewertet diverse Ansätze auf deren Kompatibilität mit bekannten Betondruckprozessen und existierendem Regelwerk. Bei der Betrachtung der Stahlbewehrung wird auch auf das an der TU Dresden entwickelte Verfahren des 3D‐Drucks von Stahlstrukturen mittels Gas‐Metall‐Lichtbogenschweißen eingegangen. Des Weiteren werden Möglichkeiten und Grenzen der Bewehrung durch Kurzfasern, Garne und Textil aufgezeigt.
Nest‐building activity as a reproducible and long‐term stroke deficit test in a mouse model of stroke
Authors: Yuan Dong , Liu Chunli , Wu Jiang , Hu Bingren
Published: April 2018

Introduction

Neuroprotective therapeutics achieved from animal studies have not been able to translate into clinical stroke therapies. A major reason may be that the functional tests and outcomes between animal stroke studies and clinical trials are significantly different. Ultimately, functional recovery is most important for stroke patients, but it remains challenging to identify animal functional tests that reflect human stroke deficits. This study aimed to explore whether the nest‐building activity can be used as a functional test of mouse stroke deficit.

Methods

Forty‐one C57B6 male mice were randomly assigned into a sham‐operated control group and 20‐, 40‐ and 60‐min middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) groups. Mice were perfusion‐fixed at 21 days following sham surgery or MCAO. Infarct volumes were assessed under the light microscopy. The nest‐building activity was characterized and quantitatively evaluated.

Results

The results show that only a small portion of striatum was damaged after 20‐min MCAO. The brain damage areas were expanded from striatum to the neocortex and hippocampus proportionally after 40‐min and 60‐min MCAO, respectively. Consistently, relative to that of the sham‐operated mice, the nest‐building activity was insignificantly altered after 20‐min MCAO, but dramatically and significantly reduced proportionally following 40‐min and 60‐min MCAO, respectively. The nest‐building deficit was a long‐lasting event and could be seen for as long as 14‐21 days of recovery, the longest endpoint of this study.

Conclusions

The results suggest that the nest‐building activity may be a novel, objective, easy to use, highly sensitive, and long‐lasting test that may reflect the multifaceted sensorimotor and cognitive deficits after stroke in humans. Our findings may provide a novel multifaceted test for bridging the gap between animal stroke studies and clinical trials.
Labor may mask a symptom of the rupture of ovarian endometrial cyst: a case report
Authors: Kino Tamina , Obata Soichiro , Osanai Nana , Hashimoto Ayasa , Okada Yukiko , Aoki Shigeru , Miyagi Etsuko
Published: April 2018

Key Clinical Message

As labor may mask a symptom of the rupture of ovarian cyst and delivery is a risk factor of its rupture, the possibility of rupture of ovarian cyst should always be considered during delivery.
Pial arteriovenous fistula of the spine in a child with hemiplegia
Authors: Hatayama Kazuki , Goto Shinichiro , Nishida Ayumi , Inoue Masaru
Published: April 2018

Key Clinical Message

Pial arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is an extremely rare disease in children. When a child presents with sudden onset of hemiparesis and headache, it is very important to perform spinal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanning for early diagnosis and treatment.
Pasteurella Multocida meningoencephalomyelitis in a dog secondary to severe periodontal disease
Authors: Tun Alexander E. , Benedicenti Leontine , Galban Evelyn M.
Published: April 2018

Key Clinical Message

Pasteurella multocida can cause meningoencephalomyelitis in canine patients with severe periodontal disease. Fever and neutrophilic pleocytosis in the cerebrospinal fluid are likely, and blood culture and/or empiric antibiotic therapy are indicated.
DHS: Regulatory agenda • DOL: Final rule on overtime regulations; tip pooling rule; fiduciary rule; small business health plans; disability plan regulations; miscellaneous • DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION • EEOC: EEO‐1 reports; wellness rules; miscellaneous • NATIONAL LABOR RELATIONS BOARD: Election rule • OSHA: Final rule to modernize injury data collection; increase civil penalties
Authors: Kastrinsky Howard M.
Published: April 2018

While the significance of the further rollback of Obama Administration regulations cannot be discounted, just as significant has been the absence of new federal workplace regulations. Just as in A. Conan Doyle's classic story, The Adventure of Silver Blaze, the absence of the “barking dog” may prove to usher in a new era for employers and employees.
A case series: Association of anaphylaxis with a significant decrease in platelet levels and possible secondary risk of thrombosis
Authors: Peppers Brian P. , Vatsayan Anant , Dalal Jignesh , Bonfield Tracey , Tcheurekdjian Haig , Hostoffer Robert
Published: April 2018

Introduction

Anaphylaxis is a life threatening systemic inflammatory process that share mediators involved in the coagulation cascade. Platelet activating factor, known to increase platelet aggregation, has also been implicated as an important mediator of anaphylaxis. Although other inflammatory reactions are associated with an increased risk of thrombosis, anaphylaxis is currently not reported as one of them. Furthermore the role platelets may have in the perianaphylaxis period is not well understood. We here in present a retrospective case series of three patients that had platelet aberrations suggestive of PAF involvement and clinically significant thrombosis in close relationship with anaphylaxis.

Objective

To investigate platelet response before and after anaphylaxis and indirect observation evidence of platelet activating factors involvement with possible increased risk of thrombosis.

Methods

A retrospective investigation into medical records including medication administrations times, laboratory, and radiology results. Platelet levels pre‐ and post‐ anaphylaxis were statistically analyzed.

Results

Case 1, a 44 year old man had an anaphylactic reaction shortly after envenomation and subsequently suffered an acute infarction with thrombus in a cerebral artery. Case 2 is a 49 year old man with idiopathic anaphylaxis who developed a deep vein thrombosis after a protracted anaphylaxis event. Case 3 involved an 18 year old female with acute myeloid leukemia was found to have a thrombus in the celiac trunk following anaphylaxis. A paired two‐tailed Wilcoxon test on the subjects pre and post anaphylactic platelet levels resulted in a overall P < 0.0001.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

These three cases illustrate the potential role platelets may have in anaphylaxis and possible increased secondary risk for the development of thrombosis. Larger studies are required to determine incidence and risk factors for blood clots following anaphylaxis in order to provide management or screening recommendations.
Dysmobility Syndrome Independently Increases Fracture Risk in the Osteoporotic Fractures in Men (MrOS) Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Buehring Bjoern , Hansen Karen E , Lewis Brian L , Cummings Steven R , Lane Nancy E , Binkley Neil , Ensrud Kristine E , Cawthon Peggy M ,   for the Osteoporotic Fractures in Men (MrOS) Study Research Group
Published: April 2018

We proposed the term “dysmobility syndrome” (DS) to identify individuals with impaired musculoskeletal health, a risk factor for falls and fractures. Whether DS is associated with increased risk of incident fracture is unknown. The Osteoporotic Fractures in Men (MrOS) study enrolled 5994 men ages ≥65 years, between March 2000 and April 2002. We used baseline data to determine whether DS increased fracture risk, independent of the Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX). Men met DS criteria at baseline if they had three or more of the following: appendicular lean mass/height2 <7.26 kg/m2, total body fat >30%, spine or hip T-score ≤ –2.5, grip strength <30 kg, gait speed <1.0 m/s, and one or more fall within 12 months. We examined whether baseline DS increased the risk of hip and major osteoporotic fractures (MOFs) over a median of 14 years (IQR, 9 to 15 years). Among 5834 men mean age 74 ± 6 years, 471 (8%) had DS and 635 (11%) experienced an MOF, including 274 (5%) hip fractures. Age (per SD increase) conferred an HR of 1.72 (95% CI, 1.59 to 1.86), DS conferred an HR of 3.45 (95% CI, 2.78 to 4.29) and FRAX calculated with BMD (per %) conferred an HR of 1.10 (95% CI, 1.08 to 1.11) for MOF. Prediction of MOF using the FRAX score provided a concordance value of 0.67 ± 0.012 (concordance values are mean ± SE). Concordance increased to 0.69 ± 0.012 by adding DS and to 0.70 ± 0.012 by adding DS and age to the multivariate model. Kaplan-Meier curves indicated that men with both DS and a FRAX risk above the National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF) treatment thresholds had higher MOF (HR 6.23; 95% CI, 3.10 to 12.54) and hip (HR 7.73; 95% CI, 5.95 to 10.04) fracture risk than men with neither condition. We suggest further studies to determine the optimal criteria for DS, and to test DS as a predictor of falls and fractures, especially in women. © 2018 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Sex‐specific Alterations in Serology and the Expression of Liver FATP4 Protein in Offspring Exposed to High‐Fat Diet during Pregnancy and/or Lactation
Authors: Zhao Mingqiu , Li Yi , Yao Huihui , Dou Lihua , Zhang Shuya , Zhao Qihong , Li Li
Published: April 2018

Changes in dietary composition will have a significant impact on the nutritional status of the mother and the offspring. To examine the relevant hormone level changes during lactation and the expression of fatty acid transporters in the placenta and liver under the condition of a high‐fat (HF) diet, we established HF animal models and conducted a cross‐fostering program to mimic the shift in diet. On gestation day (GD)18, the weight of placenta in the HF group was significantly higher than that in the control group (p < 0.05). HF‐fed male pups had a significantly lower serum insulin level, but the same phenomenon was not found in females. On the contrary, serum triacylglycerol (TAG) level presented a tendency to decrease only in female offspring. Oil red O staining showed lipid accumulation in the HF diet offspring livers. The mRNA levels of FATP4 in the placenta in the HF diet group were significantly upregulated compared to the control diet group (p < 0.05). High‐fat diet (HFD) consumption also altered the liver mRNA levels of FATP4, SREBP‐1, and SCD‐1 in the male offspring, while the changes in protein levels of FATP4 were not observed in either sex. In conclusion, maternal HF diet has a profound impact on offspring growth, metabolism, and the risk of metabolic disorders, which would depend on the exposure period of pregnancy and lactation.
Cyclopropaneoctanoic Acid 2‐Hexyl Upregulates the Expression of Genes Responsible for Lipid Synthesis and Release in Human Hepatic HepG2 Cells
Authors: Czumaj Aleksandra , Mika Adriana , Chmielewski Michał , Sledzinski Tomasz
Published: April 2018

Recently we have found cyclopropaneoctanoic acid 2‐hexyl (CPOA2H) in humans and demonstrated its elevated levels in patients with metabolic diseases associated with hypertriglyceridemia. However, it is still unclear whether CPOA2H may influence lipid metabolism in lipogenic tissues. To verify this, HepG2 hepatocytes and 3T3‐L1 adipocytes were cultured with various concentrations of CPOA2H, and then the expressions of genes associated with lipid metabolism were determined. Incubation with CPOA2H at concentrations found in patients with metabolic diseases enhanced the expression of hepatocyte genes associated with lipid synthesis and release, in particular, the fatty acid synthase gene (nearly 20‐fold increase in the mRNA level). In contrast, incubation with CPOA2H caused the downregulation of most adipocyte genes associated with lipid synthesis, whereas the level of leptin mRNA was increased. These findings suggest that CPOA2H may contribute to hypertriglyceridemia in patients with metabolic diseases, upregulating the expression of hepatocyte genes responsible for lipid synthesis and release.
High‐Protein Hypocaloric Nutrition for Non‐Obese Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Hoffer L. John
Published: April 2018

High‐protein hypocaloric nutrition, tailored to each patient's muscle mass, protein‐catabolic severity, and exogenous energy tolerance, is the most plausible nutrition therapy in protein‐catabolic critical illness. Sufficient protein provision could mitigate the rapid muscle atrophy characteristic of this disease while providing urgently needed amino acids to the central protein compartment and sites of tissue injury. The protein dose may range from 1.5 to 2.5 g protein (1.8–3.0 g free amino acids)/kg dry body weight per day. Nutrition should be low in energy (≈70% of energy expenditure or ≈15 kcal/kg dry body weight per day) because efforts to match energy provision to energy expenditure are physiologically irrational, risk toxic energy overfeeding, and have repeatedly failed in large clinical trials to demonstrate clinical benefit. The American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition currently suggests high‐protein hypocaloric nutrition for obese critically ill patients. Short‐term high‐protein hypocaloric nutrition is physiologically and clinically sensible for most protein‐catabolic critically ill patients, whether obese or not.
Postoperative intercostal lung hernia
Authors: Ishida Akane , Oki Masahide , Saka Hideo , Seki Yukio
Published: April 2018

Lung hernia is a rare condition defined as the external protrusion of lung tissue from the thorax, which usually occurs after trauma or thoracic surgery. A chest computed tomography while performing the Valsalva manoeuvre is useful for a definitive diagnosis.
Pseudomonas pharyngitis in a cystic fibrosis patient
Authors: Pradeepan Shyamala , Wark Peter
Published: April 2018

We report a case of Pseudomonas pharyngitis in a cystic fibrosis (CF) patient not known to have prior colonization of Pseudomonas. We believe that this is one of the first cases of pseudomonas pharyngitis in a CF patient.
Combining Facile Synthetic Methods with Greener Processing for Efficient Polymer‐Perylene Diimide Based Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Dayneko Sergey V. , Hendsbee Arthur D. , Welch Gregory C.
Published: April 2018

Through ease of scalability and facile synthetic methods, eight N‐annulated perylene diimide dimers with different aliphatic chains are synthesized and evaluated as non‐fullerene acceptors in organic solar cells (OSCs). Optical absorption and emission spectroscopy, and cyclic voltammetry are used to characterize the materials. Variation of the length and topology of the aliphatic chains attached at the pyrrolic N‐position is shown to have minimal effect on properties in solution. As films, the use of a branched aliphatic chains results in the dimer exhibiting a low energy shoulder in the absorption spectrum and a narrower emission band. OSCs are fabricated and tested in air, at room temperature, using an inverted architecture. The polymer PTB7‐Th is used as the donor and all active layers are processed from 2‐methyltetrahydrofuran. OSC power conversion efficiencies are shown to vary from 3.7%–5.4% for OSCs. The dimer with 2‐ethylhexyl aliphatic chains is selected for optimization because of a high organic solvent solubility and excellent film formation properties. Use of the solvent additive 1,8‐diiodooctane during film formation lead to an increase in efficiency to 6.6%, while halogen‐free processed OSCs reach 6%. This result offers a simple method for materials side‐chain engineering for the development of OSCs processed in air from eco friendly solvents.
Outer membrane vesicles for vaccination and targeted drug delivery
Authors: Wang Sihan , Gao Jin , Wang Zhenjia
Published: April 2018

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are cell membrane‐derived compartments that spontaneously secrete from a wide range of cells and tissues. EVs have shown to be the carriers in delivering drugs and small interfering RNA. Among EVs, bacterial outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) recently have gained the interest in vaccine development and targeted drug delivery. In this review, we summarize the current discoveries of OMVs and their functions. In particular, we focus on the biogenesis of OMVs and their functions in bacterial virulence and pathogenesis. Furthermore, we discuss the applications of OMVs in vaccination and targeted drug delivery.

This article is categorized under:

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Infectious Disease

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Emerging Technologies

Biology‐Inspired Nanomaterials > Lipid‐Based Structures
Mucolipidosis type III, a series of adult patients
Authors: Oussoren Esmee , van Eerd David , Murphy Elaine , Lachmann Robin , van der Meijden Jan C. , Hoefsloot Lies H. , Verdijk Rob , Ruijter George J. G. , Maas Mario , Hollak Carla E. M. , Langendonk Janneke G. , van der Ploeg Ans T. , Langeveld Mirjam
Published: April 2018

Background

Mucolipidosis type III α/β or γ (MLIII) are rare autosomal recessive diseases, in which reduced activity of the enzyme UDP‐N‐acetyl glucosamine‐1‐phosphotransferase (GlcNAc‐PTase) leads to intra‐lysosomal accumulation of different substrates. Publications on the natural history of MLIII, especially the milder forms, are scarce. This study provides a detailed description of the disease characteristics and its natural course in adult patients with MLIII.

Methods

In this retrospective chart study, the clinical, biochemical and molecular findings in adult patients with a confirmed diagnosis of MLIII from three treatment centres were collected.

Results

Thirteen patients with MLIII were included in this study. Four patients (31%) were initially misdiagnosed with a type of mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS). Four patients (31%) had mild cognitive impairment. Six patients (46%) needed help with activities of daily living (ADL) or were wheelchair‐dependent. All patients had dysostosis multiplex and progressive secondary osteoarthritis, characterised by cartilage destruction and bone lesions in multiple joints. All patients underwent multiple orthopaedic surgical interventions as early as the second or third decades of life, of which total hip replacement (THR) was the most common procedure (61% of patients). Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) was found in 12 patients (92%) and in eight patients (61%), CTS release was performed.

Conclusions

Severe skeletal abnormalities, resulting from abnormal bone development and severe progressive osteoarthritis, are the hallmark of MLIII, necessitating surgical orthopaedic interventions early in life. Future therapies for this disease should focus on improving cartilage and bone quality, preventing skeletal complications and improving mobility.
Mechanism of shear failure near fracture face during drainage process of CBM well
Authors: Xiong Ping , Hu Wang-shui , Hu Hai-xia , Liu Hailong
Published: April 2018

In this paper, whether the coal fines can be induced by shear failure during drainage process has been discussed in detail. By coupling with the percolation theory, the elasticity mechanics were used to construe the extra stresses in the formation surrounding with the hydraulic fracture. The safe window of the bottom hole pressure was also calculated from the failure envelope. The research shows that the formation pressure on the fracture surface of the coal seam is negatively related with the bottom hole pressure, and the induced stress is positively related with the bottom hole pressure during the drainage process of fractured CBM wells. The pore pressure around the fracture changed due to pore-elastic effects, which also caused a significant change of the in situ stresses. In order to avoid the breakout of the coal seam around hydraulic fracture during drainage process, the model of the reasonable bottom hole pressure is also built.
Prevalence and correlates of neurological soft signs in healthy controls without family history of any mental disorder: A neurodevelopmental variation rather than a specific risk factor?
Authors: Fountoulakis Konstantinos N. , Panagiotidis Panagiotis , Kimiskidis Vasilios , Nimatoudis Ioannis , Gonda Xenia
Published: April 2018

Objective

Neurological soft signs (NSS) are a group of minor non‐localizable neurological abnormalities found more often in patients with schizophrenia and other mental disorders. The aim of the current study was to investigate their prevalence and correlates in healthy controls without family history of any mental disorder.

Material and methods

The study sample included 122 normal subjects (66 males and 56 females; aged 32.89 ± 9.91 years old). The assessment included the Neurological Evaluation Scale (NES), and a number of scales assessing the subthreshold symptoms (MADRS, STAI) and functioning (GAF). Data on a number of socio‐demographic variables were also gathered. The statistical analysis included the development of basic statistics tables and the calculation of Pearson correlation coefficients.

Results

The results of the current study suggest that more than half of the study sample manifested at least one NSS and approximately 5% more than four. Still, the reported prevalence and NES scores are lower form those reported in the literature probably because of the carefully selected study sample. There were no significant correlations between NSS and any socio‐demographic or clinical variable.

Discussion

The current study is the first to study NSS in subjects without family history of any mental disorder and reports the presence of frequent silent neurodevelopmental events in the general population, probably in the form of a neurodevelopmental variation and possibly a weak generic rather than specific risk factor.
A survey and taxonomy on intelligent surveillance from a system perspective
Authors: Mihailescu Radu-Casian , Davidsson Paul , Eklund Ulrik , Persson Jan A.
Published: April 2018

Recent proliferation of surveillance systems is mostly attributed to advances in both image-processing techniques and hardware enhancement of smart cameras, as well as the ubiquity of sensor-driven architectures. Owing to these capabilities, new aspects are coming to the forefront. This paper addresses the current state-of-the-art and provides researchers with an overview of existing surveillance solutions, analyzing their properties as a system and drawing attention to relevant challenges when developing, deploying and managing them. Also, some of the more prominent application domains are highlighted here. In an effort to understand the development of the advanced solutions, based on their most distinctive characteristics, we propose a taxonomy for surveillance systems to help classify them and reveal gaps in existing research. We conclude by identifying promising future research lines.