bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microstructure effect on the structural, interfacial and magnetic properties of particulate composite and 0-3 core shell composite
Authors: Ashmawy M A , Sattar A A , El-Sayed H M
Published: August 2019

The microstructure of the particulate composite vs. 0-3 core shell composite has a noticeable effect on the structural, interfacial and magnetic properties. Both particulate composite and 0-3 core shell composite have the same components. X-ray diffraction has been used for all samples to identify the structural properties. The microstructures have been investigated by TEM and particle size distribution was calculated. By using IR Spectroscopy, vibrational bands have been exploited to recognize the interfacial interaction. Magnetic hysteresis curves have been measured by VSM. The relative permeability vs. temperature experiment have been measured and Curie temperatures have been determined.
Study of the optical properties of V2O5-Li2O-P2O5 glass system
Authors: Hussien Islam I , Mohsen M , Hosny H M , Abd El Keriem M S
Published: August 2019

In the last two decades, several applications became more dependent on the nonlinearity phenomena in glasses, for example: laser glass has low nonlinear refractive index (n2), while higher values serve in optical switching. In this study, Vanadium-Lithium-Phosphate glass samples [V2O5-Li2O-P2O5] were prepared by the melt-quenching technique. The amorphous structure of these glasses is examined by XRD analysis. The recorded reflectance and transmittance were investigated over the range from 200 to 2500 nm for the five samples. The two parts of the calculated refractive indices are estimated via an analytical technique. The dispersion parameters, such as Sellmeier gap energy, dispersion energy as well as Abbe’s number, were deduced. From the obtained results, the parameters for absorption dispersion, namely: the optical energy gaps for indirect transition as well as the Urbach energy were extracted. Moreover, the other parameters such as: the molar refractivity, the reflection loss and density are calculated. The measured optical parameters were found to vary nonlinearly with increasing vanadium oxide (V2O5), in the presence of Li2O in the phosphate matrix. In the aim of enhancing the performance in this glass system, the effects of ascending doping with a transition metal oxide (V2O5) on both the predicted nonlinear and the linear optical parameters, are investigated and analyzed.
Structural, thermal and ferrimagnetic studies of the as-fabricated La3+-doped Co-nano-spinels
Authors: Ghoneim A I , Meaz T M , Aboelkhir H A
Published: August 2019

The tiny as-prepared CoLa
x
Fe2-x
O4 nanoferrites, (x = 0, 0.02, 0.06, 0.1, 0.15, 0.2), nanoparticles were fabricated by the one-way and energy-efficient co-precipitation route, and discriminated by the X-ray diffractometry (XRD), FT-IR spectra, thermographometry and vibrated Nano-sample magnetometry (VSM) strategies. XRD investigation disclosed the emergence of the spinel’s mono-phase for all nano-crystals. Crystallite size R values ranged from 23.19 – to – 34.77 nm, with rising demeanor with x. IR spectra displayed four absorption bands that were related to their principle sites and main bonds. All the educed operators’ alterations are assigning to La3+ cations replacement instead of Fe3+ cations. Thermal testing of these nanoferrites exhibited 3-distinguished stages of burning practicability. Picked saturated magnetization Ms of these Nano-spinels was declined versus x, whilst coercive field Hc raised as well as the squareness Mr/Ms rise with La3+ cationic ratio x.
Dependence of the magnetic and optical properties of Ni-Co nanoferrite on the particle shape
Authors: Abdulhamid Zeyad M , Sattar A A , Darwish Atef S , Ghani A A
Published: August 2019

This work presents the effect of particle shape on the magnetic and optical properties of Ni-Co nanoferrite (NCF). Two series of different preparation methods were used to obtain two different shapes of NixCo1-xFe2O4 where x=0, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75 and 1. Sol gel was the first method used to synthesize NCF with citric acid as a fuel and the second series was synthesized by hydrothermal route and the fuel was oxalic acid. Structural characterization for NCF nanomaterials was carried out by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) and Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM). Magnetic parameters were determined from Vibrating Sample Magnetometer (VSM) for all samples and it is noticed that the values of Mr and Mr/Ms are greater in nanorod series than nanosphere series. RLC Bridge was used to obtain the Curie temperature of the polycrystalline nanomaterials by the variation of relative permeability with increasing temperature. Values of direct and indirect band gaps were determined from double beam spectrometer using Diffused Reflectance Spectroscopy (DRS) measurements. It was found that changing particle shape could change the cation distribution, magnetic and optical properties of NCF nanoparticles.
Structure and optical properties of nano Nix Cd1-x Fe2O4 doped with optical dyes
Authors: Henaish A M A , El-Sharkawy A N , Shama S A , Hemeda O M , Ghazy R
Published: August 2019

NixCd1−xFe2O4 (x = 0.0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5) nanoferrite powder were synthesized using flash auto combustion method. The studied powder was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), which was used to determine the structural properties. The effect of addition dyes (perylene dye and thiophene dye) on the optical properties of Nickel Cadmium ferrite has been investigated. The optical study UV-Visible is used to calculate the band gap energies. From Tauc’s plot, it can be seen that the band gap energy of the samples is decreasing with increase in nickel content for both dyes, indicating the enhancement of the optical of ferrite.
Application of GATE/GEANT 4 code in investigation of gamma shielding effectiveness of glass materials
Authors: Salama E , Maher Abeer
Published: August 2019

GATE/GEANT4 code-based Monte Carlo simulations have been conducted and validated for the purpose of studying the mass attenuation coefficient of xRmOn: (100-x) SiO2 glass systems (where RmOn are Bi2O3, PbO and BaO, with 30 ≤ x ≤ 70 % by weight) at 662 keV. The results came in agreement with the ones previously obtained through WinXcom program. Consistency between simulation and experimental results is confirmed by using χ2 test. The obtained results suggest the validity of using GATE for estimation of mass attenuation for different material compositions at different energies. This specific study recommends GATE simulation code as a suitable tool to investigate materials in the field of radiation shielding as an alternative to the experimental method.
Spectroscopic studies on irradiated Crab carapace
Authors: Abdou Saleh M , Ebraheem S , Mohamed R I
Published: August 2019

The crab carapace is the shell covering the body. The present work provides an overview of the use of electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) after reviewing the status of the structure and composition of the crab carapace shell using XRD and FTIR techniques. Crab samples were cleaned from soft tissue, dried and irradiated with Co-60, with doses up to 30 kGy. EPR spectra of native as well as irradiated crab carapace samples were recorded and analyzed.

FTIR results confirm the XRD results of the analyses done on the crab carapace shell. They show that, the main composite of the shell is calcium carbonate. The EPR results show that, the amplitude of the CO3 signals increased with increasing the absorbed dose. Identification of the irradiated carapace samples was concerned with the detection of the EPR spectra for g-values which are attributed to those in the coaxial CO3 free radical.

The aim of the present work is studying the effect of radiation and investigation of some physicochemical properties of crab carapace shells using XRD, FTIR spectroscopy. Also, evaluation of the induced free radical in the crab carapace due to irradiation using the EPR technique.
Clear, but don’t invest: protected areas discourage some land uses more than others
Authors: Blackman Allen , Villalobos Laura
Published: August 2019

Illegal land-use change inside protected areas (PAs) in the global south is common. Yet little is known about whether PAs disproportionately discourage conversion of forests to capital-intensive land uses (CILUs) like coffee and oil palm—an important consideration because CILUs likely have outsized adverse ecological and political-economic effects. We use remotely sensed fine-scale data on tree cover loss and land use along with quasi-experimental statistical methods that control for confounding factors to identify the effect of PAs on CILUs in Honduras, where rates of deforestation both inside and outside PAs are among the highest in the world. We find that PAs do have disproportionate effects on the conversion of forestland to CILUs: on average, they reduce by more than two-thirds the probability that forestland will be converted to a CILU versus traditional agriculture or pasture. Land characteristics moderate this effect. Social media abstract. Protected areas disproportionately discourage conversion of forests to capital-intensive land uses.
Feasibility study of MgSO4 + zeolite based composite thermochemical energy stores integrated with vacuum flat plate solar thermal collectors for seasonal thermal energy storage
Authors: Mahon D , Henshall P , Claudio G , Eames P
Published: August 2019

A primary drawback of solar thermal technologies, especially in a domestic setting, is that collection of thermal energy occurs when solar irradiance is abundant and there is generally little requirement for heating. Thermochemical Energy Storage (TCES) offers a means of storing thermal energy interseasonally with very little heat loss. A combination of Solar Thermal Collectors (STC) and TCES systems will allow a variety of different heating applications, such as domestic space and hot water heating as well as low temperature industrial process heat applications to be met in a low carbon way. This paper describes and assesses the feasibility of two novel technologies currently under development at Loughborough University; i) an evacuated flat plate STC and ii) composite TCES materials, coupled together into a system designed to store and supply thermal energy on demand throughout the year. The predicted performance of an evacuated flat plate STC is described. The objective of this paper is to evaluate the economic, energy and carbon saving potential of conceptual STC + TCES systems suitable for domestic use. This research uses experimental results from Differential Scanning Calorimeter tests to evaluate the total enthalpy, dehydration enthalpy and sensible component enthalpy of composite TCES materials. The experimental results along with predicted performance of STC are used within a developed model to assess key metrics of conceptual STC + TCES systems feasibility, including; charging time, payback time, cost/kWh, energy savings and CO2 savings. Preliminary results suggest the combination of these two technologies has significant potential for domestic applications.
Study of Residential Thermal Transfer Values (RTTV) and Vertical Daylight Factor (VDF) for Hong Kong
Authors: W. Tsang Ernest K. , W Li Danny H.
Published: August 2019

In Hong Kong, over one-quarter of the total electricity use was consumed by residential buildings. Recently, the Hong Kong Government issued a practice note namely Design and Construction Requirements for Energy Efficiency of Residential Buildings. This practice note set out the Residential Thermal Transfer Values (RTTV) of building envelopes. To enhance energy efficiency of residential buildings, the RTTV of wall (RTTVwall) and roof (RTTVroof) should not exceed 14 and 4 W/m2, respectively. Being one of the most densely populated cities in the world, most of building developments in Hong Kong are high-rise blocks located in densely built zones. The shading effects due to surrounding buildings could substantially restrict the diffuse light coming from the sky. In 2003, a practice note on lighting and ventilation requirements was issued. Referring to the performance-based approach, the note adopted the vertical daylight factor (VDF) to specify the daylighting performance of the building. The VDF should not be less than 8% for habitable rooms and 4% for domestic kitchens. This paper presents the energy performance of recently designed building fulfills the RTTV requirements. It found that VDF is a good indicator to shows the lighting elecricty consumption in buildings. For most of the bedroom, about 40% of air conditioning and 3 % lighting energy can be saved.
The Study On Anti-PID Performance Of High Efficiency Bifacial Cell Module
Authors: Cai Xia , Ni Zhichun , Chen Chengjin , Ke Po , Chen Henglei , Cao Haibo , Zhang Qiangming
Published: August 2019

This paper mainly studied the correlation between the PID attenuation of P/N type bifacial cell and the adhesive film. At present, with the development of glass-glass module technology and bifacial cell technology, glass-glass bifacial module is an important direction of industry development. Currently P type monocrystal PERC bifacial cell and N-type PERT bifacial cell are typical representatives of the bifacial technology. However, the PID problem of bifacial cell is more serious than single side cell. How to solve the bifacial cell PID problem has become a hot topic. We mainly studied the correlation between two different adhesive film (EVA&POE), and the anti-pid attenuation ability of P/N type bifacial cell. The influence of the water vapor transmission rate and resistivity of the adhesive film on PID attenuation of bifacial cell was studied. After PID 192h test, For P type, power decay of the front side is lower than rear side, while for N type cell, power dacy of the rear side is lower than front side. Both P&N type bifacial cell module with POE are much better than with EVA. For POE, recipe adjustment affects PID performance obviously.
Thermal Performance Analysis of Concrete Small Hollow Block
Authors: Bi-chao YE , Zhou Hao
Published: August 2019

In this paper, the thermal insulation coefficient and thermal inertia index of small hollow concrete blocks with different hole types are calculated by theoretical method and numerical method, and the block structure with the best thermal insulation property and heat-shielding performance is respectively determined. The relationships between thermal insulation property and heat-shielding performance and block structure parameters are analyzed. The conclusion obtained provides a good reference value for the manufacturer of the block.
Dynamic performance analysis of façade-integrated tri-functional photovoltaic/thermal solar collector
Authors: Ma Jinwei , Kou Xue , Liu Shuang , Tong Weiwei , Fang Tingyong
Published: August 2019

Research on building-integrated photovoltaic/thermal (BiPV/T) technology has been conducted for years because the system can provide electric power and thermal energy simultaneously. A façade-integrated tri-functional PV/T collector system is presented and studied in this paper. The collector can work in PV/water-heating mode or PV/air-heating mode. Besides, it can also work in the composite mode that air and water be heated simultaneously. So optimum work mode of the collecor can be chosen for different energy demands. The collector can be combined with the southern wall of building, then it operates as PV-Trombe wall for passive room heating and electricity generation in winter, and for domestic water heating and electricity generation in other seasons. For the different working modes, theoretical research is carried out and dynamic model of the collector and building are developed. Based on the models, the performance of collector and the thermal behavior of the room are investigated under different climates conditions.
Challenges and research needs in life cycle analysis of building-integrated photovoltaic
Authors: Yan Xiaoyu
Published: August 2019

Building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) is a promising solar energy technology that looks set to grow in popularity in the pursuit of a sustainable future. It has the potential to mitigate some of the main concerns over ground-mounted solar energy systems such as land use. However, there is an apparent gap in our understanding of its life cycle environmental impacts. Very few life cycle analysis (LCA) studies have evaluated BIPV comprehensively in comparison with standalone PV systems and other energy technologies. In this paper, we review the limited existing LCA studies on BIPV and identify the challenges and future research needs. The findings will help researchers, industries and policy makers better understand the environmental sustainability of BIPV to facilitate its development.
BIM-based real time building energy simulation and optimization in early design stage
Authors: Gao Hao , Zhang Liwenbo , Koch Christian , Wu Yupeng
Published: August 2019

Increasing requirements of sustainability has prompted architects to pay more attention to the energy performance of their design. The design decisions, such as building form, orientation, window size, and construction materials, made in the early design stages have the significant impact on the building energy performance. However, architects who has limited knowledge of energy modelling usually suffer from selecting and using the common building energy simulation tools. Consequently, building energy simulations are rarely used in the early design process. It is imperative to develop a tool integrated with the deisgn tool to help architect to understand the effects of various design stratigies on building energy performance. Fortunately, the simplified building energy calculation method and Building Information Modelling (BIM) provide an innovative approach for architect. In this paper, a BIM-based real time building energy simulation and optimization tool is proposed and developed based on quasi-steady state method, Revit API and Dynamo, which can assist architects to optimize the building form, building orientation and window to wall ratio (WWR) based on building energy performance in the early design stage to provide better stratigeis for buildings energy efficient design.
Supply Chain Management of the Plywood Industry in Indonesia
Authors: Makkarennu  , Natsir H R , Supratman
Published: August 2019

The plywood industry in Indonesia experienced a heyday in the 1980s and experienced ups and downs in the following year. One of the causes of the decline in plywood production in several industries is the supply chain management of raw materials. This study aims to determine supply chain mechanisms related to the flow of product, flow of financial and flow of information at the plywood industry in South Sulawesi. Data collection techniques are carried out with initial observations, field surveys, interviews, and literature studies. Data analysis was performed using qualitative and quantitative descriptive analysis. The results show that the supply chain in plywood mills has a fairly complex link starting from product flow, financial flow and information flow related to raw material supply, inventory and sales. This company needs to implement an integrated supply chain management to help maintain the sustainability of plywood production so as to increase the company’s performance.
Neutron imaging analysis using jupyter Python notebook
Authors: Bilheux Jean-Christophe , Bilheux Hassina , Lin Jiao , Lumsden Ian , Zhang Yuxuan
Published: August 2019

Independently of the image modality (x-rays, neutrons, etc), image data analysis requires normalization, a preprocessing step. While the normalization can sometimes easily be generalized, the analysis is, in most cases, specific to an experiment and a sample. Although many tools (MATLAB, ImageJ, VG Studio…) offer a large collection of pre-programmed image analysis tools, they usually require a learning step that can be lengthy depending on the skills of the end user. We have implemented Jupyter Python notebooks to allow easy and straightforward data analysis, along with live interaction with the data. Jupyter notebooks require little programming knowledge and the steep learning curve is bypassed. Most importantly, each notebook can be tailored to a specific experiment and sample with minimized effort. Here, we present the pros and cons of the main methods to analyse data and show the reason why we have found that Jupyter Python notebooks are well suited for imaging data processing, visualization and analysis.
Geographic Information System (GIS)-Based Mapping and Spatial Analyses Applied to Risk Assessment and Resource Allocation for Boll Weevil (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) Detection
Authors: Brewer Michael J , Deleon Leonel , Esquivel Isaac L
Published: August 2019

Boll weevil, Anthonomous grandis grandis Boheman first invaded U.S. cotton in Texas in the late 1800s, and spread throughout U.S. cotton-growing regions by the 1920s. Boll weevil eradication efforts initiated in the eastern United States in the 1980s resulted in its elimination except in the southernmost region of Texas and adjoining areas of Mexico. We focused on geographic information system (GIS)-based mapping and spatial analyses of boll weevil trap data to consider whether landscape features were associated with spatially variable detections of boll weevils. Seven years of trap data were overlaid with data layers of vector-based classifications of cropland, transportation, and hydrological features. New boll weevil detections in 2018 were 108 km north of cotton fields in the Lower Rio Grande Valley (LRGV) where more persistent detections occurred. Focusing on LRGV data, 14 of 24 correlations of number of boll weevil captures to nearest distances to selected landscape features were negative. In follow-up analyses, best data fit was seen using stepwise regression. In 2010, waterbodies and watermelon fields were influential linear terms (partial R2 = 0.14 and 0.064, respectively; model R2 = 0.32). In 2014, the Rio Grande River as a linear term was influential (partial R2 = 0.15; model R2 = 0.24). Boll weevil captures tended to increase in closer proximity to these landscape features. Results of 2010 were consistent with expectations of remnant populations in the LRGV spreading locally, while 2014 results may reflect remnant populations or re-introductions from boll weevil moving longer distances into the LRGV.
Male mate choice for large gravid spots in a livebearing fish
Authors: Ogden Hannah J P , de Boer Raïssa A , Devigili Alessandro , Reuland Charel , Kahrl Ariel F , Fitzpatrick John L
Published: August 2019

Male mate choice occurs in a wide range of species, and males can increase their reproductive success by distinguishing between females based on their fecundity (e.g., large body size) or their expected sperm competition risk (e.g., virgins). However, patterns of male mate choice could be mitigated by variation in female physiological receptivity, as males can benefit by directing their mating efforts toward females that are at a point in their reproductive cycle when fertilization probability is highest. Here, we perform three experiments to assess whether male mate choice is influenced by cues of female physiological receptivity, fecundity, or sperm competition risk in the pygmy halfbeak (Dermogenys collettei), a small livebearing fish. Female halfbeaks possess a “gravid spot”—an orange abdominal marking that is caused by pigmentation of the females’ skin and variation in embryo development and pigmentation during pregnancy. We show that gravid spot size increases toward parturition and is largest right before giving birth, independent of abdominal width or body size. Males consistently chose females with large gravid spots over females with small gravid spots. In contrast, males did not prefer larger females over smaller females or virgin females over mated females. As female halfbeaks store sperm prior to fertilizations, we suggest that males use the size of the gravid spot as a cue to direct their mating efforts to those females where the chance of fertilization is highest.
MeLAD: an integrated resource for metalloenzyme-ligand associations
Authors: Li Gen , Su Yu , Yan Yu-Hang , Peng Jia-Yi , Dai Qing-Qing , Ning Xiang-Li , Zhu Cheng-Long , Fu Chen , McDonough Michael A , Schofield Christopher J , Huang Cheng , Li Guo-Bo
Published: August 2019

Motivation

Metalloenzymes are attractive targets for therapeutic intervention owing to their central roles in various biological processes and pathological situations. The fast-growing body of structural data on metalloenzyme-ligand interactions is facilitating efficient drug discovery targeting metalloenzymes. However, there remains a shortage of specific databases that can provide centralized, interconnected information exclusive to metalloenzyme-ligand associations.

Results

We created a Metalloenzyme-Ligand Association Database (MeLAD), which is designed to provide curated structural data and information exclusive to metalloenzyme-ligand interactions, and more uniquely, present expanded associations that are represented by metal-binding pharmacophores (MBPs), metalloenzyme structural similarity (MeSIM) and ligand chemical similarity (LigSIM). MeLAD currently contains 6086 structurally resolved interactions of 1416 metalloenzymes with 3564 ligands, of which classical metal-binding, non-classical metal-binding, non-metal-binding and metal water-bridging interactions account for 63.0%, 2.3%, 34.4% and 0.3%, respectively. A total of 263 monodentate, 191 bidentate and 15 tridentate MBP chemotypes were included in MeLAD, which are linked to different active site metal ions and coordination modes. 3726 and 52 740 deductive metalloenzyme-ligand associations by MeSIM and LigSIM analyses, respectively, were included in MeLAD. An online server is provided for users to conduct metalloenzyme profiling prediction for small molecules of interest. MeLAD is searchable by multiple criteria, e.g. metalloenzyme name, ligand identifier, functional class, bioinorganic class, metal ion and metal-containing cofactor, which will serve as a valuable, integrative data source to foster metalloenzyme related research, particularly involved in drug discovery targeting metalloenzymes.

Availability and implementation

MeLAD is accessible at https://melad.ddtmlab.org.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Causal inference with confounders missing not at random
Authors: Yang S , Wang L , Ding P
Published: August 2019

It is important to draw causal inference from observational studies, but this becomes challenging if the confounders have missing values. Generally, causal effects are not identifiable if the confounders are missing not at random. In this article we propose a novel framework for nonparametric identification of causal effects with confounders subject to an outcome-independent missingness, which means that the missing data mechanism is independent of the outcome, given the treatment and possibly missing confounders. We then propose a nonparametric two-stage least squares estimator and a parametric estimator for causal effects.
A novel lethal recognizable polymicrogyric syndrome caused by ATP1A2 homozygous truncating variants
Authors: Chatron Nicolas , Cabet Sara , Alix Eudeline , Buenerd Annie , Cox Phillip , Guibaud Laurent , Labalme Audrey , Marks Peter , Osio Deborah , Putoux Audrey , Sanlaville Damien , Lesca Gaetan , Vasiljevic Alexandre
Published: August 2019

Polymicrogyria is a malformation of cortical development. Chatron et al. describe four patients with a lethal syndromic polymicrogyria with necrotic and calcified areas in the basal ganglia, dentato-olivary dysplasia and severe hypoplasia/agenesis of the pyramidal tracts. Exome sequencing reveals the role of ATP1A2 homozygous variants in this new phenotype.
Effectiveness of Acellular Pertussis Vaccine in Older Adults: Nested Matched Case-control Study
Authors: Liu Bette C , He Wen-Qiang , Newall Anthony T , Quinn Helen E , Bartlett Mark , Hayen Andrew , Sheppeard Vicky , Rose Nectarios , Macintyre C Raina , Mcintyre Peter
Published: August 2019

Background

Despite recommendations that older adults receive acellular pertussis vaccines, data on direct effectiveness in adults aged over 50 years are sparse.

Methods

A case-control study nested within an adult cohort. Cases were identified from linked pertussis notifications and each matched to 3 controls on age, sex, and cohort recruitment date. Cases and controls were invited to complete a questionnaire, with verification of vaccination status by their primary care provider. Vaccine effectiveness (VE) was estimated by conditional logistic regression, with adjustment for reported contact with children and area of residence.

Results

Of 1112 notified cases in the cohort, we had complete data for 333 cases and 506 controls. Among 172 PCR-diagnosed cases (mean age, 61 years), 11.2% versus 19.5% of controls had provider-verified pertussis vaccination, on average, 3.2 years earlier. Adjusted VE against PCR-diagnosed pertussis was 52% (95% CI, 15–73%), nonsignificantly higher if vaccinated within 2 years (63%; −5–87%). Adjusted VE was similar in adults born before 1950, presumed primed by natural infection (51%; −8–77%) versus those born 1950 or later who may have received whole-cell pertussis vaccine (53%; −11–80%) (P-heterogeneity = 0.9). Among 156 cases identified by single-point serology, adjusted VE was −55% (−177–13%).

Conclusions

We found modest protection against PCR-confirmed pertussis among older adults (mean age, 61 years; range, 46–81 years) within 5 years after acellular vaccine. The most likely explanation for the markedly divergent VE estimate from cases identified by single-titer serology is misclassification arising from limited diagnostic specificity in our setting.
Transcatheter aortic valve implantation versus surgical aortic valve replacement in low-risk patients: a propensity score-matched analysis
Authors: Schaefer Andreas , Schofer Niklas , Goßling Alina , Seiffert Moritz , Schirmer Johannes , Deuschl Florian , Schneeberger Yvonne , Voigtländer Lisa , Detter Christian , Schaefer Ulrich , Blankenberg Stefan , Reichenspurner Hermann , Conradi Lenard , Westermann Dirk
Published: August 2019

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to determine the differences in outcomes of surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) and transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) in low-risk patients.

METHODS

All patients with a logistic EuroSCORE II <4% who underwent transfemoral TAVI between 2008 and 2016 (n = 955) or SAVR between 2009 and 2014 (n = 886) at our centre were included. One hundred and nine patients per group were available for propensity score matching.

RESULTS

Mortality during the 30-day follow-up showed no differences (SAVR vs TAVI: 1.1% vs 1.8%, P = 1.0) but the rates of permanent pacemaker implantation (0.0 vs 14.8%, P < 0.001) and paravalvular leakage ≥ moderate (0.0 vs 7.0%, P = 0.017) were higher in TAVI patients. No difference was found regarding postoperative effective orifice area and transvalvular pressure gradients. Although, the 1-year survival was similar between both groups; 3- and 5-year survival was significantly inferior in the TAVI patient cohort.

CONCLUSIONS

TAVI yielded similar short-term outcomes compared with SAVR despite higher rates of permanent pacemaker implantation and paravalvular leakage ≥ moderate, but inferior long-term survival. Poorer long-term outcomes of the TAVI patient cohort were attributable to a more comorbid TAVI population. This emphasizes the need for long-term results from randomized controlled trials before TAVI can be broadly expanded to younger low-risk patients.
Vacuum-formed retainer versus bonded retainer for dental stabilization in the mandible—a randomized controlled trial. Part I: retentive capacity 6 and 18 months after orthodontic treatment
Authors: Krämer Anke , Sjöström Mats , Hallman Mats , Feldmann Ingalill
Published: August 2019

Background

Evidence concerning the most appropriate retention strategy after orthodontic treatment is still inconclusive.

Objective

This trial compares the retentive capacity of vacuum-formed Essix C-retainers (VFR) and bonded cuspid-to-cuspid retainers (CTC) in the mandible 6 and 18 months after orthodontic treatment.

Trial design

A single-centre two-arm parallel-group randomized controlled trial.

Methods

This study included 104 adolescent patients, computer-generated randomized with sequentially numbered, opaque, and sealed envelopes into two groups and stratified by gender (52 females and 52 males). The patients were treated with fixed appliances with and without tooth extractions in both jaws and were ready for debond. In the intervention arm, patients received a VFR (n = 52); in the active comparator arm, patients received a CTC (n = 52). Dental casts were obtained at debond (T1), after 6 months (T2), and after 18 months (T3). The casts were digitized. The retentive capacity was evaluated on digital three-dimensional models using Little’s Irregularity Index (LII), overbite, overjet, arch length, and intermolar and intercanine width.

Results

Baseline values were similar for both groups. Statistically significant increases were noted in LII and overbite, mainly between T1 and T2, but also between T1 and T3 in the VFR group (LII = 0.52 mm, P < 0.001, overbite = 0.51 mm, P < 0.001) and in the CTC group (LII = 0.45 mm P < 0.001, overbite = 0.36 mm, P < 0.001). There were no significant differences between groups. Overjet showed small variations during the observation periods but was overall stable within and between groups after 18 months. Arch length decreased slightly in both groups after 6 and 18 months. Intermolar and intercanine widths remained stable after debond.

Limitations

Patients, operator, and outcome assessor could not be blinded due to the study design.

Conclusions

VFR and CTC have the same retention capacity in the mandible after 6 and 18 months. Relapse mainly occurs during the first 6 months of retention, but the post-treatment changes are generally small. Shorter VFRs in the mandible do not cause negative vertical effects. Part-time wear regimen is not associated with increased relapse.

Trial registration

NCT03070444.
Biogeographical patterns in soil bacterial communities across the Arctic region
Authors: Malard Lucie A , Anwar Muhammad Z , Jacobsen Carsten S , Pearce David A
Published: August 2019

The considerable microbial diversity of soils and key role in biogeochemical cycling have led to growing interest in their global distribution and the impact that environmental change might have at the regional level. In the broadest study of Arctic soil bacterial communities to date, we used high-throughput DNA sequencing to investigate the bacterial diversity from 200 independent Arctic soil samples from 43 sites. We quantified the impact of spatial and environmental factors on bacterial community structure using variation partitioning analysis, illustrating a nonrandom distribution across the region. pH was confirmed as the key environmental driver structuring Arctic soil bacterial communities, while total organic carbon (TOC), moisture and conductivity were shown to have little effect. Specialist taxa were more abundant in acidic and alkaline soils while generalist taxa were more abundant in acidoneutral soils. Of the 48 147 bacterial taxa, a core microbiome composed of only 13 taxa that were ubiquitously distributed and present within 95% of samples was identified, illustrating the high potential for endemism in the region. Overall, our results demonstrate the importance of spatial and edaphic factors on the structure of Arctic soil bacterial communities.
A chromosomal-level genome assembly for the insect vector for Chagas disease, Triatoma rubrofasciata
Authors: Liu Qin , Guo Yunhai , Zhang Yi , Hu Wei , Li Yuanyuan , Zhu Dan , Zhou Zhengbin , Wu Jiatong , Chen Nansheng , Zhou Xiao-Nong
Published: August 2019

Background

Triatoma rubrofasciata is a widespread pathogen vector for Chagas disease, an illness that affects approximately 7 million people worldwide. Despite its importance to human health, its evolutionary origin has not been conclusively determined. A reference genome for T. rubrofasciata is not yet available.

Finding

We have sequenced the genome of a female individual with T. rubrofasciatausing a single molecular DNA sequencing technology (i.e., PacBio Sequel platform) and have successfully reconstructed a whole-genome (680-Mb) assembly that covers 90% of the nuclear genome (757 Mb). Through Hi-C analysis, we have reconstructed full-length chromosomes of this female individual that has 13 unique chromosomes (2n = 24 = 22 + X1 + X2) with a contig N50 of 2.72 Mb and a scaffold N50 of 50.7 Mb. This genome has achieved a high base-level accuracy of 99.99%. This platinum-grade genome assembly has 12,691 annotated protein-coding genes. More than 95.1% of BUSCO genes were single-copy completed, indicating a high level of completeness of the genome.

Conclusion

The platinum-grade genome assembly and its annotation provide valuable information for future in-depth comparative genomics studies, including sexual determination analysis in T. rubrofasciata and the pathogenesis of Chagas disease.
Energy efficient cooling and heating of aquaponics facilities based on regional climate
Authors: Alkhalidi Ammar , Khawaja Mohamad K , Abusubaih Dana
Published: August 2019

An already existing aquaponics facility in Jordan, named Khodra, will be used to evaluate the cooling and heating profiles to provide the best environment for plants and fish to thrive. A replica of the ‘Khodra’ facility will be simulated to be built in Qatar. Good ventilation rate with 50% green color shading was sufficient to reduce the temperature down by almost 10 degrees in ‘Khodra’-Jordan while using a heating, ventilation and air conditioning water-chiller based system reduced the humidity in the ‘Khodra’-Qatar greenhouse yet using AC split units was cheaper for the small size, 360 m2, of this specific greenhouse.
Inferior vena cava resection without reconstruction for retroperitoneal malignancies
Authors: Cocchi Lorenzo , Di Domenico Stefano , Bertoglio Sergio , Treppiedi Elio , Ficarra Gianluca , De Cian Franco
Published: August 2019

Inferior vena cava (IVC) involvement in retroperitoneal malignancies is a rare occurrence and radical surgery with major vascular resection represents the only potential curative treatment. IVC replacement after resection is still controversial and only small series and few prospective data are available. We report a series of three patients affected by retroperitoneal masses involving IVC treated with vena cava resection without replacement. All patients were treated by a radical R0 surgical procedure associated with infrarenal IVC resection and no reconstruction. Based on preoperative radiologic imaging and intraoperative findings, one patient also underwent right nephrectomy, while another patient underwent left renal vein ligation without nephrectomy. Neither early nor late severe post-operative complications related to the absence of IVC outflow were observed. Resection without replacement of the infrarenal IVC results in acceptable morbidity, thus specific risks related to the use of prosthetic grafts can be avoided.
The redshift evolution of X-ray and Sunyaev–Zel’dovich scaling relations in the fable simulations
Authors: Henden Nicholas A , Puchwein Ewald , Sijacki Debora
Published: August 2019

We study the redshift evolution of the X-ray and Sunyaev–Zel’dovich (SZ) scaling relations for galaxy groups and clusters in the fable suite of cosmological hydrodynamical simulations. Using an expanded sample of 27 high-resolution zoom-in simulations, together with a uniformly sampled cosmological volume to sample low-mass systems, we find very good agreement with the majority of observational constraints up to z ∼ 1. We predict significant deviations of all examined scaling relations from the simple self-similar expectations. While the slopes are approximately independent of redshift, the normalizations evolve positively with respect to self-similarity, even for commonly used mass proxies such as the YX parameter. These deviations are due to a combination of factors, including more effective active galactic nuclei feedback in lower mass haloes, larger binding energy of gas at a given halo mass at higher redshifts, and larger non-thermal pressure support from kinetic motions at higher redshifts. Our results have important implications for cluster cosmology from upcoming SZ surveys such as SPT-3G, ACTpol, and CMB-S4, as relatively small changes in the observable–mass scaling relations (within theoretical uncertainties) have a large impact on the predicted number of high-redshift clusters and hence on our ability to constrain cosmology using cluster abundances. In addition, we find that the intrinsic scatter of the relations, which agrees well with most observational constraints, increases at lower redshifts and for lower mass systems. This calls for a more complex parametrization than adopted in current observational studies to be able to accurately account for selection biases.
A Framework to Measure/Assess the Utility of Profiling as a Counterterrorism Tool
Authors: McGuirk Noel
Published: August 2019

The assessment of the usefulness of terrorist profiling is often conflated with an exaggerated presentation of the threat of terrorism as a basis to justify the use of terrorist profiling or an exaggerated impact of terrorist profiling as a basis to criticize its use by law enforcement officers. There is a considerable gap in the literature on terrorist profiling which fails to present a framework that can objectively engage in assessing/measuring the usefulness of terrorist profiling. The continued prevalence of terrorism continues to necessitate the existence of counterterrorism frameworks that allow law enforcement officers deploy pre-emptive control strategies. However, the difficulty posed by the existence of these strategies is whether they can actually be considered capable of assisting law enforcement officers detect, deter, or prosecute those engaged in acts of terrorism or its associated preparatory activities. This article proposes to address this gap by firstly examining previous attempts at analysing the usefulness of terrorist profiling and the different approaches more generally adopted to measure the usefulness of counterterrorism strategies. This discussion is followed by a presentation of a workable framework that can be applied to different manifestations of terrorist profiling to begin considering its usefulness as a counterterrorist tool. This article ultimately concludes that any assessment of terrorist profiling requires an assessment of the processes used to construct profiles separately from the assessment of the application of terrorist profiling in the field with a further layer of assessing considering its broader impact to question its overall usefulness as a counterterrorism tool.
NEUTRON DOSE ASSESSMENT USING SAMPLES OF HUMAN BLOOD AND HAIR
Authors: Ekendahl Daniela , Rubovič Peter , Žlebčík Pavel , Hupka Ivan , Huml Ondřej , Bečková Věra , Malá Helena
Published: August 2019

The unique feature of nuclear accidents with neutron exposure is the induced radioactivity in body tissues. For dosimetry purposes, the most important stable isotopes occurring in human body, which can be activated by neutrons, are 23 Na and 32 S. The respective activation reactions are as follows:23Na(n,γ)24Na and32S(n,p)32P. While sodium occurs in human blood, sulfur is present in human hair. In order to verify the practical feasibility of this dosimetry technique in conditions of our laboratory, samples of human blood and hair were irradiated in a channel of a training reactor VR-1.24Na activity was measured by gamma-ray spectrometry.32P activity in hair was measured by means of a proportional counter. Based on neutron-spectrum calculation, relationships between neutron dose and induced activity were derived for both blood and hair.
RETROSPECTIVE DOSE RECONSTRUCTION WITH MOBILE PHONES AND CHIP CARDS
Authors: Ekendahl Daniela , Čemusová Zina , Judas Libor
Published: August 2019

Mobile phones and common chip cards are very widespread items that almost everyone owns. They contain some radiation-sensitive materials that can be used for dosimetry based on stimulated luminescence. We investigated and compared reproducibility, dose response and fading of luminescence signal for the particular materials. Subsequently, we performed an experiment of a dose reconstruction using mobile phones and chip cards, which were fixed to a slab phantom and irradiated by a 137Cs radiation source in our laboratory. Doses obtained were compared with reference values. The materials investigated can be used for dosimetry in cases of serious radiation accidents or malevolent acts with radioactive materials, when it is extremely important to identify as quickly as possible individuals who received high-radiation doses.
Carbon Nanomaterials Stimulate HMGB1 Release From Macrophages and Induce Cell Migration and Invasion
Authors: Cui Xuejing , Wan Bin , Yang Yu , Xin Yan , Xie Yi-Chun , Guo Liang-Hong , Mantell Lin L
Published: August 2019

Carbon nanomaterials (CNMs) are widely used in industrial and medical sectors. The increasing exposure of CNMs necessitates the studies of their potential environmental and health effects. High-mobility group box-1 (HMGB1) is a nuclear DNA-binding protein, but when released from cells, may cause sustained inflammatory response and promote cell migration and invasion. In this work, we found that 7-day exposure of 2.5 mg/kg/day CNMs, including C60, single-walled carbon nanotubes, and graphene oxides significantly elevated the level of HMGB1 in blood and lung lavage fluids in C57BL/6 mice. Subsequently, cellular effects and underlying mechanism were explored by using Raw264.7. The results showed that noncytotoxic CNMs enhanced HMGB1 intracellular translocation and release via activating P2X7 receptor. Released HMGB1 further activated receptor for advanced glycation endproducts (RAGE) and downstream signaling pathway by upregulating RAGE and Rac1 expression. Simultaneously, CNMs prepared the cells for migration and invasion by modulating MMP2 and TIMP2 gene expression as well as cytoskeleton reorganization. Intriguingly, released HMGB1 from macrophages promoted the migration of nearby lung cancer cell, which can be efficiently inhibited by neutralizing antibodies against HMGB1 and RAGE. Taken together, our work demonstrated that CNMs stimulated HMGB1 release and cell migration/invasion through P2X7R-HMGB1-RAGE pathway. The revealed mechanisms might facilitate a better understanding on the inflammatory property and subsequent cell functional alteration of CNMs.
Recovery and discharge criteria after ambulatory anesthesia: can we improve them?
Authors: Jakobsson Jan G.
Published: August 2019

Purpose of review

Day surgery coming and leaving hospital day of surgery is growing. From minor and intermediate procedure performed on health patient, day surgery is today performed on complex procedures and elderly patient and on patients with comorbidities. Thus, appropriate discharge assessment is of huge importance to secure safety and quality of care.

Recent findings

Discharge has since decades been assessed on a combination of stable vital signs, control of pain and postoperative nausea and vomiting and securing that patients can stand walk unaided. There is controversy around whether patients must drink and void before discharge. The absolute need for escort when leaving hospital and someone at home first night after surgery is argued but it does support safety. Discharge is not being ‘street fit,’ it merely allows patients to go back home for further recovery in the home environment. A structured discharge timeout checklist securing that patients are informed of further plans, signs, and symptoms to watch out for and what to do in case recovery don’t follow plans facilitate safety.

Discharge following day surgery must be based on appropriate assessment of stable vital signs and reasonable resumption of activity of daily living performance. Rapid discharge must not jeopardize safety. Classic discharge criteria are still basis for safe discharge, adding a structured discharge checklist facilitates safe discharge.