bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How do gastropods grow synchronized shell sculpture? Effect of experimental varix manipulations on shell growth byCeratostoma foliatum(Muricidae: Ocenebrinae)
Authors: Webster Nicole , Richard Palmer A.
Published: March 2019

Gastropod shells display striking patterns in both color and sculpture, but rather little is known about the developmental mechanisms that produce those patterns. Here, we tested a physical feedback hypothesis for how snails control spatial patterning of shell sculpture. Varices—a form of synchronized, blade‐like axial sculpture—are produced at regular intervals around the shell and often aligned closely between adjacent whorls. Older varices were believed to provide a spatial cue about where to position a new varix. To test this hypothesis, we manipulated physical cues by cutting off varices or attaching new ones to the body whorl of individuals ofCeratostoma foliatum, and then allowing snails to grow a new varix. We found that previous varices on the shell were neither necessary nor sufficient to induce a new varix at a particular location. However, the position of older varices did appear to affect the fine tuning of subsequent varix placement. The results of our experiments therefore suggest that varix synchrony arises mainly from some internal mechanism that yields a standardized amount of spiral growth per growth spurt. We also found that shell damage can induce varix production in unusual or aberrant locations during subsequent shell growth.
Strength retention in hot‐pressed ZrB2–SiC composite after thermal cycling exposure in air at 1200 and 1400°C
Authors: Guo Shuqi
Published: March 2019

The effect of thermal cycling exposure on room temperature flexural strength was examined in hot‐pressed ZrB2–SiC composite undergone cyclic heating‐cooling test at 1200 and 1400°C in air for up to 1000 or 500 cycles. For the post‐tested samples at 1200°C, the flexural strength of the composite initially increased and subsequently degraded with increase of number of thermal cycles (N). The strength retention displayed by the composite after N = 1000 cycles was approximately 80%. For the post‐tested samples at 1400°C, however, the flexural strength decreased with increase of N. After N = 500 cycles, the strength retention was approximately 45%. The strength decrease was associated with the formation and coarsening of defects in the oxidized reactive layer and the delamination of the outermost thinner dense oxide layer.
Managing student mental health: The challenges faced by academics on professional healthcare courses
Authors: Hughes Gareth J. , Byrom Nicola C.
Published: March 2019

Aims

To explore how academics on nursing and healthcare programmes are managing their roles and responsibility in relation to student mental health.

Background

There is growing concern about the mental health of university students in general and healthcare students in particular. Shifts in Higher Education policy, encouraging a “whole university approach,” may place greater responsibility for student mental health on academics. However, little is known about the challenges that poor student mental health creates for academics on healthcare programmes.

Design

A qualitative approach, using semi‐structured interviews and focus groups, provided the opportunity for in‐depth analysis.

Methods

Fourteen academics on healthcare programmes, including seven lecturers from nursing programmes, were interviewed between May–June 2017. Constant comparison analysis was followed to support grounded theory.

Results

Four key themes emerged. Academics had difficulty identifying and maintaining boundaries due to competing academic and professional identities. Student disclosures are accompanied by challenges arising due to professional responsibilities. Supporting student mental health on placement is difficult. Academics are aware and concerned about the potential negative impact of course content and practice on student mental health.

Conclusion

This is the first study to explore in‐depth the challenges faced by academics on healthcare programmes by the rising prevalence of and concern for, student mental health. The findings indicate that leaders of nursing education programmes and their managers, need to be aware that academics face complex challenges in managing and responding student mental health and may struggle to maintain boundaries due, in part, to competing professional identities.
Integrative review: Patient safety among older people with diabetes in home care services
Authors: Haltbakk Johannes , Graue Marit , Harris Janet , Kirkevold Marit , Dunning Trisha , Sigurdardottir Arun K.
Published: March 2019

Aims

To identify diabetes specific patient safety domains that need to be addressed to improve home care of older people; to assess research from primary studies to review evidence on patient safety in home care services for older people with diabetes.

Design

An integrative review.

Data Sources

Domains for patient safety in diabetes home care settings were identified by conducting two searches. We performed searches in: CINAHL, Medline, Embase, and Cochrane Library for the years 2000–2017.

Review Methods

The first search identified frameworks or models on patient safety in home care services published up to October 2017. The second search identified primary studies about older people with diabetes in the home care setting published between 2000–2017.

Results

Data from the 21 articles populated and refined 13 predetermined domains of patient safety in diabetes home care. These were used to explore how the domains interact to either increase or reduce risk. The domains constitute a model of associations between aspects of diabetes home care and adverse events. The results highlight a knowledge gap in safety for older persons with diabetes, influenced by e.g. hypoglycaemia, falls, pain, foot ulcers, cognitive impairment, depression, and polypharmacy. Moreover, providers’ inadequate diabetes‐specific knowledge and assessment skills contribute to the risk of adverse events.

Conclusion

Older persons with diabetes in home care are at risk of adverse events due to their reduced ability to self‐manage their condition, adverse medication effects, the family's ability to take responsibility or home care service's suboptimal approaches to diabetes care.
Effect of sonic hedgehog on motor neuron positioning in the spinal cord during chicken embryonic development
Authors: Yang Ciqing , Li Shuanqing , Li Xiaoying , Li Han , Li Yunxiao , Zhang Chen , Lin Juntang
Published: March 2019

Sonic hedgehog (SHH) is a vertebrate homologue of the secreted Drosophila protein hedgehog and is expressed by the notochord and floor plate in the developing spinal cord. Sonic hedgehog provides signals relevant for positional information, cell proliferation and possibly cell survival, depending on the time and location of expression. Although the role of SHH in providing positional information in the neural tube has been experimentally proven, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. In this study, in ovo electroporation was employed in the chicken spinal cord during chicken embryo development. Electroporation was conducted at stage 17 (E2.5), after electroporation the embryos were continued incubating to stage 28 (E6) for sampling, tissue fixation with 4% paraformaldehyde and frozen sectioning. Sonic hedgehog and related protein expressions were detected by in situ hybridization and fluorescence immunohistochemistry and the results were analysed after microphotography. Our results indicate that the ectopic expression of SHH leads to ventralization in the spinal cord during chicken embryonic development by inducing abnormalities in the structure of the motor column and motor neuron integration. In addition, ectopic SHH expression inhibits the expression of dorsal transcription factors and commissural axon projections. The correct location of SHH expression is vital to the formation of the motor column. Ectopic expression of SHH in the spinal cord not only affects the positioning of motor neurons, but also induces abnormalities in the structure of the motor column. It leads to ventralization in the spinal cord, resulting in the formation of more ventral neurons forming during neuronal formation.
Minoxidil for patchy alopecia areata: systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Freire P.C.B. , Riera R. , Martimbianco A.L.C. , Petri V. , Atallah A.N.
Published: March 2019

Background

Alopecia areata (AA) is a complex immune and polygenic inflammatory disease that causes hair loss on some or all areas of the body; extent, severity and progression vary widely among individuals. Alopecia areata, considered one of the most frequently occurring immune diseases, affects 0.2% of the world population at any given time. Uncertainty prevails about the most appropriate intervention for AA. The aim is to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of over 80 interventions for AA, including minoxidil – one of the most promising interventions for patchy AA in children and adults of both sexes.

Material and Methods

An extensive search was conducted of international medical literature involving randomized clinical trials (RCTs) of AA interventions. RCTs were evaluated qualitatively and quantitatively according to the previously published protocol and for seven specific outcomes.

Results

The meta‐analysis involving 5% minoxidil vs. placebo presented a significant difference in favor of 5% minoxidil with the moderate quality of evidence in children and adults with patchy AA (RR 8.37 [3.16–22.14], 95% CI). No severe adverse event was reported.

Conclusions

Treatment of patchy AA with 5% minoxidil proved effective, and clinically and statistically safe in studies with limited sample size; quality of evidence was moderate. Further studies with sound methodological quality, more participants and outcome observations lasting longer than 6 months are needed to address remaining uncertainties.
Wage delegation in the field
Authors: Jeworrek Sabrina , Mertins Vanessa
Published: March 2019

By conducting a natural field experiment, we analyze the managerial policy of delegating the wage choice to employees. We find that this policy enhances performance significantly, which is remarkable since allocated wage premiums of the same size have no effect at all. Observed self‐imposed wage restraints and absence of negative peer effects speak in favor of wage delegation, although the chosen wage premium levels severely dampen its net value. Additional experimental and survey data provide important insights into employees' underlying motivations.
Full‐scale testing of stability curves for vehicles in flood waters
Authors: Smith Grantley P. , Modra Benjamin D. , Felder Stefan
Published: March 2019

Flood fatality data show that world‐wide, flood related deaths are increasingly associated with people perishing in vehicles that become unstable driving through floodwaters. Previous research on vehicle stability in flood flows has predominantly focussed on model scale testing. This paper presents novel testing determining stability thresholds of full‐scale, road‐going vehicles in floodwaters. Traction forces for various flow depths and buoyancy conditions were directly measured for three types of prototype vehicles. Friction coefficients for prototype vehicles were determined for different bed surface conditions including concrete, gravel, and sand highlighting that a worst‐case friction coefficient must be considered. Novel direct measurements of drag coefficients were conducted for a range of flow conditions of a model‐scale vehicle complementing the prototype tests. The combination of measured forces provided vehicle stability thresholds applicable to a range of vehicle types. While this study was the most comprehensive stability assessment to date, all tests were conducted under laboratory conditions and more conservative threshold criteria must be applied to account for violent flood waters and uneven surfaces.
Quantification of mandibular sexual dimorphism during adolescence
Authors: Fan Yi , Penington Anthony , Kilpatrick Nicky , Hardiman Rita , Schneider Paul , Clement John , Claes Peter , Matthews Harold
Published: March 2019

The present study investigates how sexual dimorphism in the human mandible develops in three‐dimensionally during adolescence. A cross‐sectional sample of mandibular meshes of 268 males and 386 females, aged between 8.5 and 19.5 years of age, were derived from cone beam computed tomography and were analysed using geometric morphometric methods. Growth trajectories of the mandible in males and females were modelled separately using a recently developed non‐linear kernel regression framework. Growth rate and direction at a dense array of points all over the mandibular surface were visualized within each group and compared between groups. We found that mandibular sexual dimorphism already exists at 9 years of age, but this is mostly in size not in shape. The differential growth rate and duration between the sexes during pubertal growth largely explained by adult sexual dimorphism: the growth direction in both males and females is similar but the male mandible changed more quickly and over a longer period than the female mandible, where the growth rate peaked and declined earlier. This results in increasing dimorphism in form, which is evident in both size and shape. The development of dimorphic features, concentrated in the chin and ramus, were further visualized. The dense morphometric approach provides detailed three‐dimensional quantitative assessment of the development of sexual dimorphism of the mandible.
Event‐Related Potential Evidence for Persistence of an Intuitive Misconception About Electricity
Authors: Zhu Yanmei , Zhang Li , Leng Yue , Pang Ridong , Wang Xiaole
Published: March 2019

Event‐related potentials are used to test the hypothesis that an intuitive misconception persists in the mind even after the acquisition of scientific knowledge. We investigated the temporal dynamics of neural mechanisms in solving a scientific problem involving a common misconception. It showed that the increased P2 component was elicited by the stimulus congruent with the misconception. The increased N2 component was elicited by the stimulus incongruent with the misconception. Additionally, the enhanced late positive potential component was evoked by the stimulus involving the conflict between the misconception and scientific knowledge. These results suggest that an intuitive misconception might still survive after the acquisition of scientific knowledge. It could be invoked automatically to evaluate the plausibility of incoming information. Subsequently, scientific knowledge is explicitly retrieved to monitor the conflict and inhibit the misconception. This study might have values in revealing the neural correlates of knowledge representation and scientific reasoning in education.
Connecting the pieces: uncovering the molecular basis for long‐distance communication through plant grafting
Authors: Thomas Hannah R. , Frank Margaret H.
Published: March 2019

Vascular plants are wired with a remarkable long‐distance communication system. This network can span from as little as a few centimeters (or less) in species like Arabidopsis, up to 100 m in the tallest giant sequoia, linking distant organ systems into a unified, multicellular organism. Grafting is a fundamental technique that allows researchers to physically break apart and reassemble the long‐distance transport system, enabling the discovery of molecular signals that underlie intraorganismal communication. In this review, we highlight how plant grafting has facilitated the discovery of new long‐distance signaling molecules that function in coordinating developmental transitions, abiotic and biotic responses, and cross‐species interactions. This rapidly expanding area of research offers sustainable approaches for improving plant performance in the laboratory, the field, the orchard, and beyond.
Effects of Acupoint Application Therapy with TianGui Powder on Osteoporosis in Ovariectomized Rats through TGF‐β1 and Smad2/3 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Lin Xiao‐Sheng , Wang Hai‐yan , Zhang Zhen , Liu Han‐Jiao , Qu Zhen , Wu Ke‐Liang , Xiao Qing‐Hua , Zhu Jian‐Zong , Zhang Ping
Published: March 2019

Objectives

To explore the effects of acupoint application therapy (AAT) with TianGui Powder (TGP) on the expressions of the transforming growth factor β1 (TGF‐β1) and Smad‐2/3 signaling pathway in ovariectomized osteoporosis rats.

Methods

Sixty rats were randomly divided into four groups: normal group (group A), model group (group B), TGP group (group C), and Western medicine group (group D). Group A had only the corresponding amount of adipose tissue around the ovary removed; rats in the other groups had bilateral ovariectomies. After 1 week, groups A and B were given 1 mL/100 mg normal saline solution by gavage, group C was treated with AAT with TGP on ShenQue acupoint (0.2 piece/rat, 6 h/time, 1 time/d) and group D was given calcium carbonate vitamin D3 (36 mg/kg/d) and alfacalcidol (0.05 μg/kg/d) tablet suspension. In this study, the bone mineral density (BMD) , the levels of BALP, TRAP‐5b, and BGP in serum and the changes in bone histomorphology was detected. For acquiring lumbar experimental data, the expression of TGF‐β1, Smad‐2/3 proteins and mRNA of TGF‐β1and Smad‐2/3 were assessed. After 12 weeks, the data were collected for analysis.

Results

Compared with group A, the bone trabecula was thinner and significantly reduced in other groups. The result of BMD improved significantly in both groups C and D compared to group B after intervention (P < 0.05). In contrast, compared to group B, the levels of BALP, TRAP‐5b, and BGP significantly declined in both groups C and D. In group C, the results of protein expressions in TGF‐β1, Smad‐2/3 were 2.870 ± 0.270, 1.552 ± 0.111, and 1.420 ± 0.079, respectively. In groups C and D, those indications significantly declined compared to group B (P < 0.01). In group C, the level of mRNA expressions of TGF‐β1, Smad‐2/3 were 1.872 ± 0.177, 1.672 ± 0.086, and 1.790 ± 0.136, respectively. Compared with group B, those indications had significant difference in groups C and D (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Acupoint application therapy with TGP could significantly improve the BMD. The TGF‐β1 and Smad‐2/3 signaling pathway could be a therapeutic target of TGP in postmenopausal osteoporosis rats.
Identification and application of major quantitative trait loci for panicle length in rice (Oryza sativa) through single‐segment substitution lines
Authors: Wang Xiaoling , Liu Guifu , Wang Zhiquan , Chen Songliang , Xiao Yulong , Yu Chuanyuan
Published: March 2019

Panicle length (PL), an important yield‐related trait, strongly affects yield components, such as grain number, grain density and rice quality. More than 200 panicle length quantitative trait loci (PL QTLs) are identified, but only a small number are applied in rice breeding. In this study, we performed QTL analysis for PL using 42 single‐segment substitution lines (SSSLs) derived from nine donors in the genetic background of HJX74. Fourteen QTLs and five heterosis QTLs (HQTLs) for PL were recognised. Three QTLs and four HQTLs acted positively, and the other eleven QTLs and one HQTL acted negatively. By scanning the single heterozygous background region of the F2 population with large‐genetic‐effect SSSLs, we mapped PL loci qPL6‐2 and qPL7‐1 to different locations on chromosomes 6 and 7, respectively, in three consecutive years of independent trials. The genetic effects of these QTLs were further assessed. qPL6‐2 demonstrated the most positive additive effect (QTL), whereas qPL7‐1 achieved the most positive dominant effect (HQTL) for PL. These results indicated that the pyramiding of PL QTLs might increase grain yield and facilitate the application of the beneficial allele in hybrid rice breeding.
Authoritarian Predispositions and Attitudes Towards Redistribution
Authors: Arikan Gizem , Sekercioglu Eser
Published: March 2019

Authoritarian predispositions are associated with a preference for order, certainty, and security. Using data from European Social Surveys (ESS), we show that this association extends to attitudes towards redistributive policies. We demonstrate that support for redistributive policies that emphasize the government’s responsibility to provide old age, health, and unemployment benefits are positively associated with authoritarian predispositions. We also provide evidence that perceived economic threats moderate this relationship such that, for individuals who perceive higher levels of economic threat, the relationship between authoritarian predispositions and support for government responsibility is stronger. These results show that authoritarian predispositions are not only associated with social preferences but also attitudes towards economic policies.
Black root rot: a long known but little understood disease
Authors: Nel W. J. , Duong T. A. , de Beer Z. W. , Wingfield M. J.
Published: March 2019

Black root rot caused by the pathogen Thielaviopsis basicola has been known since the mid 1800s. The disease is important on many agricultural and ornamental plant species and has been found in at least 31 countries. Since its description, the pathogen has had a complex taxonomic history that has resulted in a confused literature. A recent revision of the Ceratocystidaceae following the advent of DNA sequencing technology has made it possible to resolve this confusion. Importantly, it has also shown that there are two pathogens in the Ceratocystidaceae that cause black root rot. They reside in the newly established genus Berkeleyomyces and are now known as B. basicola and B. rouxiae. This review considers the taxonomic history of the black root rot pathogens, and their global distribution. Prospects relating to the serious diseases that they cause and the likely impact that the era of genomics will have on our understanding of the pathogens are also highlighted.
Genome‐wide association study identifies variation of glucosidase being linked to natural variation of the maximal quantum yield of photosystem II
Authors: Hamdani Saber , Wang Hongru , Zheng Guangyong , Perveen Shahnaz , Qu Mingnan , Khan Naveed , Khan Waqasuddin , Jiang Jianjun , Li Ming , Liu Xinyu , Zhu Xiaocen , Govindjee  , Chu Chengcai , Zhu Xin‐Guang
Published: March 2019

The maximum quantum yield of photosystem II (as reflected by variable to maximum chlorophyll a fluorescence, Fv/Fm) is regarded as one of the most important photosynthetic parameters. The genetic basis underlying natural variation in Fv/Fm, which shows low level of variations in plants under non‐stress conditions, is not easy to be exploited using the conventional gene cloning approaches. Thus, in order to answer this question, we have followed another strategy: we used genome‐wide association study (GWAS) and transgenic analysis in a rice mini‐core collection. We report here that four single‐nucleotide polymorphisms, located in the promoter region of β‐glucosidase 5 (BGlu‐5), are associated with observed variation in Fv/Fm. Indeed, our transgenic analysis showed a good correlation between BGlu‐5 and Fv/Fm. Thus, our work demonstrates the feasibility of using GWAS to study natural variation in Fv/Fm, suggesting that cis‐element polymorphism, affecting the BGlu‐5 expression level, may, indirectly, contribute to Fv/Fm variation in rice through the gibberellin signaling pathway. Further research is needed to understand the mechanism of our novel observation.
Automatic analysis of pre‐ejection period during sleep using impedance cardiogram
Authors: Forouzanfar Mohamad , Baker Fiona C. , Colrain Ian M. , Goldstone Aimée , de Zambotti Massimiliano
Published: March 2019

The pre‐ejection period (PEP) is a valid index of myocardial contractility and beta‐adrenergic sympathetic control of the heart defined as the time between electrical systole (ECG Q wave) to the initial opening of the aortic valve, estimated as the B point on the impedance cardiogram (ICG). B‐point detection accuracy can be severely impacted if ICG cardiac cycles corrupted by motion artifact, noise, or electrode displacement are included in the analyses. Here, we developed new algorithms to detect and exclude corrupted ICG cycles by analyzing their level of activity. PEP was then estimated and analyzed on ensemble‐averaged clean ICG cycles using an automatic algorithm previously developed by the authors for the detection of B point in awake individuals. We investigated the algorithms’ performance relative to expert visual scoring on long‐duration data collected from 20 participants during overnight recordings, where the quality of ICG could be highly affected by movement artifacts and electrode displacements and the signal could also vary according to sleep stage and time of night. The artifact rejection algorithm achieved a high accuracy of 87% in detection of expert‐identified corrupted ICG cycles, including those with normal amplitude as well as out‐of‐range values, and was robust to different types and levels of artifact. Intraclass correlations for concurrent validity of the B‐point detection algorithm in different sleep stages and in‐bed wakefulness exceeded 0.98, indicating excellent agreement with the expert. The algorithms show promise toward sleep applications requiring accurate and reliable automatic measurement of cardiac hemodynamic parameters.
Carbon accumulation and vertical accretion in a restored versus historic salt marsh in southern Puget Sound, Washington, United States
Authors: Drexler Judith Z. , Woo Isa , Fuller Christopher C. , Nakai Glynnis
Published: March 2019

Few comparisons exist between vertical accretion (VA) and carbon accumulation rates (CARs) in restored versus historic (i.e. reference) marshes. Here, we compare these processes in a formerly diked, sparsely vegetated, restored salt marsh (Six Gill Slough, SG), whose surface is subsided relative to the tidal frame, to an adjacent, relatively pristine, historic salt marsh (Animal Slough, AS). Six sediment cores were collected at both AS and SG approximately 6 years after restoration. Cores were analyzed for bulk density (BD), % loss of ignition, % organic carbon, and 210Pb. We found that sharp changes in BD in surface layers of SG cores were highly reliable markers for the onset of restoration. The mean VA since restoration at SG (0.79 [SD = 0.29] cm/year) was approximately twice that of AS (0.41 [SD = 0.16] cm/year). In comparison, the VA at AS over 50 years was 0.30 (SD = 0.09) cm/year. VA consisted almost entirely of inorganic sediment at SG whereas at AS it was approximately 55%. Mean CARs at SG were somewhat greater than at AS, but the difference was not significant due to high variability (SG: 81–210 g C m−2 year−1; AS: 115–168 g C m−2 year−1). The mean CAR at AS over the past 50 years was 118 (SD = 23) g C m−2 year−1. This study demonstrates that a sparsely vegetated, restored salt marsh can quickly begin to accumulate carbon and that historic and restored marshes can have similar CARs despite highly divergent formation processes.
Wood chip soil amendments in restored wetlands affect plant growth by reducing compaction and increasing dissolved phenolics
Authors: Wolf Evan C. , Rejmánková Eliška , Cooper David J.
Published: March 2019

Adding chipped wood to soil ameliorates compaction, allowing faster plant growth that is critical to successful wetland restorations. Following the filling and planting of an erosion gully in Halstead Meadow, Sequoia National Park, the tallest leaf height and maximum clone width of transplanted Scirpus microcarpus seedlings were negatively correlated with soil compaction. Plant height decreased by 9.8 cm and width decreased by 11.9 cm per MPa of soil compaction (range of 0.74–4.50 MPa). We experimentally amended mineral soil in a test trench and found that every 0.10 cm3/cm3 addition of wood chips (range of 0.00–0.75 cm3/cm3) reduced compaction by 0.174 MPa. Had the Halstead Meadow gully fill contained an equivalent volume of wood chips to the reference area soil organic matter content (0.64 cm3/cm3), we predict compaction would have been reduced by 1.11 MPa, increasing individual transplant width spread by 36%, approximately doubling the vegetated area after two growing seasons. In a greenhouse phytometer experiment, conifer bark leachate (phenolics 211 mg/L) significantly reduced plant growth and, in the presence of added nutrients, increased the production of the enzyme polyphenol oxidase (PPO). However, phenolics concentration in bark‐free conifer wood leachate (12 mg/L), similar to field‐sampled concentrations, did not affect plant growth or PPO production. Pure conifer bark is not recommended as a soil amendment, but the addition of low‐bark‐content wood chips to gully fill may be a feasible and effective means of reducing soil compaction, accelerating plant establishment, and lowering wetland restoration project costs.
Vulnerable groups and preliminary insights into intersecting categories of identity in Laamu Atoll, Maldives
Authors: McNamara Karen E. , Clissold Rachel
Published: March 2019

The notion of vulnerability has acquired a significant role in discussions around reducing risk and identifying vulnerable groups, which is particularly important for targeting risk‐reducing policy and practice. Through ten semi‐structured interviews with 24 stakeholders, this study collected local perceptions on the following groups considered most vulnerable in Laamu Atoll, Maldives: youth and children, women, the elderly, people with disabilities, displaced persons and migrants, and farmers. In doing this, the significance of intersecting categories of identity for understanding vulnerability emerged and was explored; an approach that is often absent or scarcely applied in studies that identify vulnerable groups in the Maldives and elsewhere. Intersections between location, youth and gender or disability, as well as gender and marital status emerged as relevant for the Laamu Atoll context. Although this study acknowledges the incompleteness of its intersectional analysis, these findings provide important preliminary insights into the role of intersectionality in shaping vulnerability experience. To enhance scholarship on vulnerability, future studies could further explore intersectionality in Laamu Atoll and the Maldives using this study as a base and also improve its practical applicability for policy and practice.
Reconstructing deep‐time histories from integrated thermochronology: An example from southern Baffin Island, Canada
Authors: McDannell Kalin T. , Schneider David A. , Zeitler Peter K. , O'Sullivan Paul B. , Issler Dale R.
Published: March 2019

We present a multi‐chronometric approach for reconstructing deep‐time thermal histories using southern Baffin Island as a case study. This continuous thermal history begins with the Palaeoproterozoic Trans‐Hudson Orogeny and is derived from inverse and forward models that integrate thermochronometers spanning some 500°C: new apatite U–Pb ages and K‐feldspar40Ar/39Ar multi‐diffusion domain data, published (U–Th)/He zircon ages and new multi‐kinetic fission‐track results. Integration of data from a wider temperature range reduces ambiguities in thermal‐history modelling and permits us to constrain the timing of geological processes including, extended post‐orogenic cooling, enhanced later Proterozoic cooling, and then episodic burial and exhumation in the Palaeozoic–Mesozoic.
Low‐temperature thermochronology of francolite: Insights into timing of Dead Sea Transform motion
Authors: Kohn Barry , Weissbrod Tuvia , Chung Ling , Farley Ken , Bodorkos Simon
Published: March 2019

Cambrian siliciclastic sequences along the Dead Sea Transform (DST) margin in southern Israel and southern Jordan host both detrital fluorapatite [D‐apatite] and U‐rich authigenic carbonate‐fluorapatite (francolite) [A‐apatite]. D‐apatite and underlying Neoproterozoic basement apatite yield fission‐track (FT) data reflecting Palaeozoic–Mesozoic sedimentary cycles and epeirogenic events, and dispersed (U–Th–Sm)/He (AHe) ages. A‐apatite, which may partially or completely replace D‐apatite, yields an early Miocene FT age suggesting formation by fracturing, hydrothermal fluid ascent and intra‐strata recrystallisation, linked to early DST motion. The DST, separating the African and Arabian plates, records ~105 km of sinistral strike‐slip displacement, but became more transtensional post‐5 Ma. Helium diffusion measurements on A‐apatite are consistent with thermally activated volume diffusion, indicating Tc ~52 to 56 ± 10°C (cooling rate 10°C/Ma). A‐apatite AHe data record Pliocene cooling (~35 to 40°C) during the transtensional phase of movement. This suggests that timing of important milestones in DST motion can be discerned using A‐apatite low‐temperature thermochronology data alone.
Development of a vision impairment score for the assessment of functional vision in dogs: Initial evidence of validity, reliability, and responsiveness
Authors: Graham Kathleen L. , Reid Jacky , Whittaker Cameron J. G. , Hall Evelyn J. S. , Caruso Kelly , McCowan Christina I. , White Andrew
Published: March 2019

Aim

To describe the development and initial validation of a questionnaire measuring functional vision in dogs.

Methods

A 17‐item survey was designed to quantify functional vision in dogs. The Vision Impairment Score (VIS) was determined by summing responses to each question. Questions were assigned to one of five subcategories: overall vision, daily activities, peripheral vision, near vision, and distance vision. Content validity was established during development phases, and construct validity via comparing results of known groups (blind vs sighted; normal vs impaired vision; surgery to improve vision vs nonrestorative surgery), and through factor analysis. Concurrent criterion validity was determined with use of a validated health‐related quality‐of‐life (HRQL) assessment tool. Reliability and responsiveness assessments were investigated using intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and effect size (ES), respectively.

Results

Responses (221) from 201 dog owners were included. Compared to sighted dogs (n = 153), blind dogs (n = 48) had a higher VIS and greater impairment in all subcategories. Among sighted dogs, a higher VIS was obtained in dogs with low vision compared to those with normal vision (P < 0.001). A higher VIS was associated with poorer HRQL (P < 0.001). Perfect reliability was obtained for 6/17 questions, and excellent reliability for 11/17 questions (intraclass correlation 1.0 and >0.9, respectively), and the VIS was highly responsive to therapeutic intervention (effect size 1.46).

Conclusion

Results suggest the VIS may be clinically useful in assessing and obtaining a quantifiable measure of functional vision in dogs. Ongoing validation of the tool for clinical use is needed.
Extending the 30‐minute rule for red cell units – investigation of the bacterial risk of 60‐minute exposures to ambient temperature
Authors: Aplin Kate , Pitt Tyrone , Allen Jennifer , Roy Anjana , Tidey Katrina , Ball Joanne , McDonald Carl Peter
Published: March 2019

Background and Objectives

In the UK, a significant proportion of red cell units is discarded due to the 30‐min rule governing out of temperature control. Studies have shown that repeated warming to ambient temperature has little impact on red cell quality or bacterial growth. We aimed to validate extension of the rule to 60 minutes by investigation of repeated same, and different, day exposures on bacterial growth.

Materials and Methods

Red cell units were seeded individually at 100‐1000 cfu/ml with Yersinia enterocolitica, Serratia liquefaciens, Pseudomonas putida, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Enterobacter cloacae and Bacillus cereus. Test units were exposed to 30°C for 30 or 60 min on a single occasion at days 15, 17 and 21, or thrice on day 15 of a 35‐day storage period. A 10‐fold increase in bacterial counts in tests versus controls maintained in cold storage was considered indicative of significant bacterial proliferation.

Results

Exposure of units to 30°C for up to 60 min had no substantial impact on the growth of bacteria and all mesophiles declined steadily in tests and controls. Only P. putida showed a near significant elevation in count on exposure for 60 min at day 35.

Conclusions

Extension of the out of temperature rule for red cells to 60 min will potentially not compromise patient safety, although exposures to ambient temperatures should be minimized. Units returned to storage must not be reissued for at least 6 hours and not be exposed to ambient temperatures on more than three occasions.
Simultaneous action of surfactant modified sugarcane bagasse: Adsorbent and antibacterial agent
Authors: Nik Malek Nik Ahmad Nizam , Yusof Muhammad Hafizuddin , Kamaru Auni Afiqah
Published: March 2019

Simultaneous action of surfactant modified sugarcane bagasse (SBH) for dye adsorption and antibacterial activity were investigated. SBH was subjected for adsorption of cationic dye, methylene blue (MB) and anionic dye, methyl orange (MO). Antibacterial activity of SBH was tested against gram negative bacterium (Escherichia coli ATCC11229) and gram positive bacteria (Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212 and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC6538). SBH was prepared by reacting sugarcane bagasse (SB) with different concentrations of cationic surfactant, hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide HDTMA-Br) (0.1, 1.0 and 4.0 mM). The adsorbed amount of HDTMA-Br onto SBH was determined after modification process. SB and SBH were structurally characterized by FTIR spectroscopy. Results from simultaneous action study demonstrated that SB showed adsorption affinity towards MB and MO while the antibacterial activity of SB increased after the surfactant modification reaction. SB modified with 4.0 mM of HDTMA-Br (SBH4.0) exhibited the highest adsorption capacity and antibacterial activity. SBH demonstrated excellent antibacterial activity against gram negative in comparison to gram positive bacteria. In conclusion, the modification of SB with high concentration of HDTMA-Br enhanced the simultaneous action of cationic and anionic dye adsorption and the antibacterial activity against gram negative bacteria.
Effect of cross-linked enzyme aggregates in hierarchically mesocellular mesoporous magnetic silica preparation conditions towards enzyme activity retention
Authors: Sulaiman Nurul Jannah , Abdul Rahman Roshanida , Md Illias Rosli
Published: March 2019

This work aimed to optimize ten preparation factors that might influence the cellulase and xylanase activity retention of cross-linked enzyme aggregates in hierarchically mesocellular mesoporous magnetic silica. The factors were optimized using the fractional factorial design (210-5). The optimized output was occurred at 2 mL of enzyme amount, magnet-to-enzyme ratio of 1:0.15, enzyme adsorption at 26°C and 162 rpm in 40 min, enzyme-to-precipitant ratio of 1:11, 0.05% (v/v) of glutaraldehyde concentration, and cross-linking process at 37°C and 300 rpm in 2 h. The factors were examined to observe the effect of every factor towards cellulase and xylanase acrivity retention.
Structural and characterization studies of insoluble thai bombyx mori silk fibroin films
Authors: Mohd Yusoff Noor Izyan Syazana , Wahit Mat Uzir , Jaafar Juhana , Wong Tuck-Whye
Published: March 2019

Bombyx Mori fiber consists of two major proteins which are fibroin and sericin. The silk fibroin (SF) is the core structural protein of silk fiber. SF protein structures comprise of primary and secondary structures; where the primary structure contains series of amino acid and secondary structure with Silk I refers to the water-soluble and Silk II, high β sheet extent which is insoluble. This study was conducted to compare the structural and characterization of insoluble Thai Bombyx Mori SF with different types of post-treatement.  Thai silk cocoons, which were degummed and dissolved in 9.3 M LiBr solution at 60 °C. The obtained SF solutions were dialyzed and purified. SF films were prepared by solution casting and immersing in methanol and ethanol, followed by water annealing in water saturated  vacuum. Post-treatment was purposely done to regenerate and induce of the β sheet structure to enhance the insolubilities and the stabilities properties of the SF films. The SF films structural conformation, characterization and thermal stability were characterized. Attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) showed that SF films were presented in a more stable form after ethanol post treatment, which also supporting by X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis which indicated the tendency to higher structural organization.  Thermal analysis resutls showed that SF was thermally stable and improved after post treatment.  The contact angle of post treated SF increased the hydrophobicity of the  films. The  thai SF films could be the promising candidate for applications in tissue regeneration, optical devices, and flexible electronic displays with the possibility  to control the SF structure and properties.
Biomechanical evaluation of pin placement of external fixator in treating tranverse tibia fracture: Analysis on first and second cortex of cortical bone
Authors: Ramlee Muhammad Hanif Hanif , Zainudin Nur Amalina , Mohd Latip Hadafi Fitri , Hong Seng Gan , Garcia-Nieto Evelyn , Abdul Kadir Mohammed Rafiq
Published: March 2019

Biomechanical perspective of external fixator is one of the greatest factor to consider in successfully treating bone fracture. This is due to the fact that mechanical behavior of the structure can be analyzed and optimized in order to avoid mechanical failure, increase bone fracture healing rate and prevent pre-term screw loosening. There are three significant factors that affect the stability of external fixator which are the placement of pin at the bone, configuration and components of external fixator. These factors lead to one question: what is the optimum pin placement in which exerts optimum stability? To date, literature on above mentioned factors is limited. Therefore, we conducted a study to evaluate the uniplanar-unilateral external fixator for two different pin placement techniques in treating transverse tibia fracture via finite element method. The study was started off with the development of transverse tibia fracture using Mimics software. Computed tomography (CT) data image was utilized to develop three dimensional tibia bone followed by crafting fracture on the bone. Meanwhile, the external fixator was developed using SolidWork software. Both tibia bone and external fixator were meshed in 3-matic software with triangular mesh element. Simulation of this configuration was took place in a finite element software, Marc.Mentat software. A load of 400 N was applied to the proximal tibia bone in order to simulate stance phase of a gait cycle.  From the findings, the pin placement at the second cortex of bone provided optimum stability in terms of stress distribution and displacement, which should be considered for better treatment for transverse tibia fracture. On the other hand, the pin placement at first cortex should be avoided to prevent many complications.
A generalized bivariate copula for flood analysis in Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Kamaruzaman Izzat Fakhruddin , Wan Zin Wan Zawiah , Mohd Ariff Noratiqah
Published: March 2019

This study generalized the best copula to characterize the joint probability distribution between rainfall severity and duration in Peninsular Malaysia using two dimensional copulas. Specifically, to construct copulas, Inference Function for Margins (IFM) and Canonical Maximum Likelihood (CML) methods were specially exploited. For the purpose of achieving copula fitting, the derived rainfall variables by making use of the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) were fitted into several distributions. Five copulas, namely Gaussian, Clayton, Frank, Joe and Gumbel were put to the tests to establish the best data fitted copula. The tests produced acknowledged and satisfactory results of copula fitting for rainfall severity and duration. Surveying the Akaike Information Criterion (AIC) and the Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC), only three copulas produced a better fit for parametric and semi parametric approaches. Finally, two consistency tests were conducted and the results shown that Frank Copula produced consistent results.
Development of missing data prediction model for carbon monoxide
Authors: Abd Rani Nurul Latiffah , Azid Azman , Abdullah Sani Muhamad Shirwan , Samsudin Mohd Saiful , Ku Yusof Ku Mohd Kalkausar , Muhammad Amin Siti Noor Syuhada , Khalit Saiful Iskandar
Published: March 2019

Carbon monoxide (CO) is one of the most important pollutants since it is selected for API calculation. Therefore, it is paramount to ensure that there is no missing data of CO during the analysis. There are numbers of occurrences that may contribute to the missing data problems such as inability of the instrument to record certain parameters. In view of this fact, a CO prediction model needs to be developed to address this problem. A dataset of meteorological and air pollutants value was obtained from the Air Quality Division, Department of Environment Malaysia (DOE). A total of 113112 datasets were used to develop the model using sensitivity analysis (SA) through artificial neural network (ANN). SA showed particulate matter (PM10) and ozone (O3) were the most significant input variables for missing data prediction model of CO. Three hidden nodes were the optimum number to develop the ANN model with the value of R2 equal to 0.5311. Both models (artificial neural network-carbon monoxide-all parameters (ANN-CO-AP) and artificial neural network-carbon monoxide-leave out (ANN-CO-LO)) showed high value of R2 (0.7639 and 0.5311) and low value of RMSE (0.2482 and 0.3506), respectively. These values indicated that the models might only employ the most significant input variables to represent the CO rather than using all input variables.
Multicomponent Evaporation Characteristics of Biodiesel Sprays
Authors: Lanjekar R. D. , Deshmukh D.
Published: March 2019

The vapor mass fraction distribution of the multicomponent surrogate of diesel and biodiesel fuel is studied using multicomponent evaporation model at engine-relevant conditions. The numerical model is validated with experimental liquid tip penetration and vapor penetration for diesel and biodiesel. The vapor distribution for a multicomponent surrogate is significantly different than that of single-component fuel. The tetradecane, single-component surrogate for diesel has different vapor mass distribution unlike in multicomponent diesel fuel. The spatial mass fraction distribution profile of biodiesel is found to be the function of volatility differential of the pure components and their proportion in the composition. The vapor mass fraction distribution for biodiesel of palm and soybean is found to be similar to that of their single-component surrogate due to comparable volatility of components of these biodiesels. However, methyl laurate in coconut biodiesel has volatility differential with other components and also has a significant share of 40% to 50% in the coconut biodiesel composition. The change in percentage of methyl laurate in coconut composition is found to have strong impact on vapor distribution. The vapor mass fraction distribution is observed to be affected by the change in the biodiesel composition specifically volatile component.