bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Memes against sexism? A multi-method analysis of the feminist protest hashtag #distractinglysexy and its resonance in the mainstream news media
Authors: Brantner Cornelia , Lobinger Katharina , Stehling Miriam
Published: February 2019

Hashtag feminism has become a popular tactic of online protest against gender inequality. Using the Twitter hashtag #distractinglysexy, women scientists posted pictures of themselves in labs or during field research to contest misogynist remarks by Nobel laureate Tim Hunt. We examined the resulting humorous and memetic discourse on Twitter as well as its coverage in news media combining a content analysis of the multimodal tweets with a qualitative discourse analysis of German and British news media. The results show that the ironic memes in which researchers addressed sexism in academia by parodying social norms and ideals of ‘sexiness’ yielded substantial media attention, but with differences in the two countries: While the hashtag #distractinglysexy initiated a broader debate on sexism and discrimination in academia in the UK news media discourse, in the German context, this form of ‘self-mediation’ was portrayed either as ‘something funny on the Web’ or as a harmful firestorm.
Subjective socioeconomic status, health, and early-life conditions
Authors: Kim Younoh , Radoias Vlad
Published: February 2019

We study the role of subjective social status on health and its correlates, with an emphasis on the predictive power of early-life conditions on subjective social status. A well-established literature links early-life conditions to later-life objective measures of socioeconomic status, but little attention has been paid to their effects on subjective socioeconomic status. We find that socioeconomic factors during childhood are important predictors of subjective social status, even after controlling for contemporaneous socioeconomic conditions. This shows an additional psychological and behavioral channel through which early-life conditions influence later outcomes and which has not been yet studied in sufficient detail.
Application of chaos and extension theory to fault diagnosis of three-phase synchronous generators
Authors: Lu Shiue Der , Wang Meng Hui , Chen Shih Kai
Published: February 2019

This study applied an extension algorithm combined with the Chaos Theory to the fault diagnosis of the three-phase synchronous generator. First, the three-phase synchronous generator is classified, including normal, carbon brush fault, three-phase unbalance, and insulation deterioration, and then by means of hardware measurement circuit and device, electrical signals are measured for each category and a chaotic error scatter map is built through the Chaos Theory to get the chaotic eye coordinates under specific fault categories. Next, the extension algorithm is used to carry out the correlation function and the normalization calculation, evaluating the type of fault to which it belongs. The analysis results show that the proposed method can effectively identify the fault types of three-phase synchronous generators and significantly reduce the amount of feature extraction data, so as to effectively detect the change of fault signals, allowing us to know the operation state of three-phase synchronous generators.
Self-compassion among social workers
Authors: Jay Miller J , Lee Jacquelyn , Shalash Nada , Poklembova Zuzana
Published: February 2019

In recent years, the practice of self-compassion has garnered increasing attention in the literature, yet little is known about self-compassion in the field of social work. The purpose of this cross-sectional exploratory study was to examine self-compassion among social workers (N = 1011) located in a state in the southeastern United States. Specifically, this study was guided by two distinct, yet interconnected research queries: (1) How self-compassionate are social workers and (2) what personal and professional factors contribute to self-compassion among social workers?

Findings

Findings suggest social workers are fairly self-compassionate. Significant group differences in self-compassion exist by perceived health status (self-report), relationship status, social work licensing, and professional organization affiliation. Significant predictors of self-compassion included health status, educational level, and relationship status (in descending order of predictive power).

Applications

Adept and ethical social work practice requires that practitioners engage in self-compassionate practices. This study offers pragmatic implications for social work practice, including training and apposite areas for research.
Application of quadrupole-Orbitrap high-resolution mass spectrometry in rapid screening and identification of synthetic dyes in herbal medicines
Authors: Guo Changchuan , Li Ke , Xing Sheng , Sun Hua , Shi Feng , Zhang Guifang , Sun Haiyan
Published: February 2019

In this work, a method combining ultra-high performance liquid chromatography and hybrid quadrupole-Orbitrap high-resolution mass spectrometry (HR-MS) was developed and validated for use in the simultaneous screening, identification, and quantification of 21 synthetic dyes in herbal medicines. To optimize the chromatographic conditions, we used a combined Full mass scan and data-dependent MS/MS (Full MS/dd-MS2) approach in positive and negative ion mode. Under this mode, selected ions with given fragmentation energy were subjected to a dd-MS2 scan following a Full MS scan. The selectivity of this method was effectively improved using 70,000 full width at half maximum mass resolution and narrow mass window (typically 5 ppm), and a single injection was sufficient for simultaneous identification and quantification of 21 synthetic dyes within 10 min. The combined method was fully validated and complies with all criteria for selectivity, sensitivity, calibration curve linearity, accuracy, precision, recovery, matrix effect, and stability. All analytes showed excellent linear relationships as all the coefficients of determination ( r2) are greater than 0.9978 over wide ranges of concentrations (e.g. 1.0–500 ng/mL for sunset yellow). The validated method was employed to detect synthetic dyes in herbal medicines and was demonstrated to provide a reliable technical basis for drug regulation and public health protection.
Passenger or Patient? The Automobile: A New Frontier in Health Promotion
Authors: Shuter Jonathan , Rosander Caterina , Kim Ryung S. , Brownstein John S.
Published: February 2019

Americans spend trillions of minutes in cars annually, tens of billions of minutes traveling to health care providers, and hundreds of millions of minutes ridesharing (e.g., with Uber or Lyft). From July to October 2017, we recruited rideshare users (e.g., Uber or Lyft) to participate in a survey about health messaging during rides. Responses were collected anonymously on tablet devices. We interviewed 170 ridesharers and assessed their interest in health messaging delivered during rides. Participants ranged from 19 to 79 years of age, and most (87%) reported using their smartphones to search for health information. More than 70% expressed interest in health messaging during rides, and 55% of current smokers expressed interest in quit-smoking messaging. The most popular of suggested health topics included healthy eating (61.8%), exercise (60.6%), and weight loss (40.0%), and the preferred message formats were video (33.5%), smartphone apps (33.5%), and online social network (25.3%). Free time spent riding in cars represents an enormous untapped resource, and our findings suggest that riders are receptive to the idea of health messaging delivered during rideshare trips.
Changes in advanced glycation end products, beta-defensin-3, and interleukin-17 during diabetic periodontitis development in rhesus monkeys
Authors: Jiang Hui , Li Yuanmin , Ye Changchang , Wu Wanhong , Liao Guangneng , Lu Yanrong , Huang Ping
Published: February 2019

The bidirectional relationship between diabetes mellitus (DM) and periodontal disease has drawn great attention; however, the mechanisms underlying their association remain unclear. In this study, we aimed to develop a rhesus monkey model of diabetic periodontitis and explore the potential mechanisms by which DM affects the progression of periodontal disease. Three healthy rhesus monkeys were selected as the control group. Five streptozotocin-induced diabetic rhesus monkeys were chosen as the experimental group. Ligature placement was used to induce periodontitis. The changes in the levels of advanced glycation end products (AGEs), beta-defensin-3 (BD-3), and interleukin-17 (IL-17) were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) and real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) at different stages during disease progression. Periodontitis was confirmed by clinical assessment, radiographic images, and histological examination. Significant changes in the levels of AGEs and BD-3 in serum were observed at the periodontitis stage in diabetic rhesus monkeys ( P < 0.05). The expression of BD-3 mRNA in the gingiva of diabetic group at baseline was significantly high ( P < 0.05). Diabetic monkeys exhibited significantly enhanced IL-17 mRNA expression at the periodontitis stage ( P < 0.05). Our findings indicated that the rhesus monkey can serve as an ideal model for exploring the pathogenesis of diabetic periodontitis, and the hyperglycemic environment may accelerate inflammatory response and weaken the defense system in periodontal tissues.

Impact statement

The mechanism underlying the association between diabetes mellitus (DM) and periodontal disease is not yet fully understood. Hence, there is a need to establish animal models to reveal the effect of DM on the pathogenesis of periodontitis. In this study, we explored the appropriate methods for inducing periodontitis and shortening the modeling time in rhesus monkeys, to investigate the pathogenesis of diabetic periodontitis and develop innovative therapies. Our results suggest that a hyperglycemic environment might lead to the destruction of periodontal tissues by accelerating inflammatory response and weakening the defense system in periodontal tissues. Therefore, this study has significant treatment implications regarding the regulation of the immune response against periodontal diseases in patients with DM.
HeartMate II Implantation Via Single Incisional Ministernotomy in a Small Young Woman
Authors: Ushijima Tomoki , Tanoue Yoshihisa , Shiose Akira
Published: February 2019

We report a successful case of less invasive implantation of a HeartMate II in a small young woman. A 34-year-old woman, who developed refractory heart failure associated with chronic myocarditis, underwent implantation of a HeartMate II via T-shaped ministernotomy without any additional incisions. This approach has several unique advantages: all of the procedures can be operated in the same view in the usual fashion with minor modifications; some optional procedures can be easily added during the operation if necessary. To confirm the feasibility and versatility of this approach, we assessed the postimplant pump position by the radiographic parameters. The radiographic assessment showed that those parameters were not significantly different than those in our other normal body-sized patients. There were no adverse events associated with HeartMate II implantation during her follow-up. We consider that this approach has the feasibility and versatility, and can be an alternative approach in cases where the conventional approach is inappropriate for some reason.
Beyond the Individual: Social and Cultural Influences on the Health-Seeking Behaviors of African American Men
Authors: Eley Natalie T. , Namey Emily , McKenna Kevin , Johnson Annette Carrington , Guest Greg
Published: February 2019

Morbidity and mortality rates are alarmingly high among African American men and are influenced by the health-seeking behaviors of this population. This study examined data from 40 focus groups with African American men in Durham, North Carolina, to better understand social and cultural influences on health-seeking behaviors. Data were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. Three broad types of social/cultural influence on motivation to seek health care services were identified: family, culture and upbringing, and peers. Study findings confirm the importance of social relationships in influencing African American men’s health-seeking behaviors and offer characterization of the nature of influence across different types of relationships, according to the direct support or indirect messages they provide. Future programs can draw on these data to inform efforts to include family and peers as well as utilize existing cultural gender norms to the advantage of health promotion for African American men.
Radial Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy as a Novel Agent for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Refractory to Current Medical Therapy
Authors: Zhang Dai , Wang Yun-Lei , Gong Da-Xin , Zhang Zhao-Xuan , Yu Xiao-Tong , Ma Yue-Wen
Published: February 2019

This study aimed to assess efficacy and safety data from pilot trials of the radial extracorporeal shock wave therapy (rESWT) to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) refractory to current medical therapy. A total of 29 men with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) suggestive of BPH who had responded poorly to medical therapy for at least 6 months and were poor surgical candidates were enrolled. Each participant was treated with rESWT once a week for 8 weeks, each by 2000 impulses at 2.0 bar and 10 hertz of frequency. International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), quality of life (QoL), and International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5) were evaluated before treatment, after the fourth and eighth rESWT, and 3 months after the end of treatment. Peak urinary flow ( Qmax) and postvoid residual (PVR) were assessed. Safety was also documented. Statistically significant clinical improvements were reported for IPSS, QoL, and IIEF-5 after treatment, and those were sustained until 3 months follow-up. Qmax and PVR improved evidently at 8 weeks with a 63% and 70% improvement, respectively. The only adverse event was the occasional perineum pain or discomfort, which usually disappeared within 3 days. The rESWT may be an effective, safe, and noninvasive treatment for symptomatic BPH in selected patients whose medical treatment has faced failure and are poor surgical candidates.
Position deceptive tracking controller and parameters analysis via error characteristics for unmanned aerial vehicle
Authors: Guo Yan , Wu Meiping , Tang Kanghua , Tie Junbo , Zhang Jingyu
Published: February 2019

Covert Global Navigation Satellite System spoofer, called position deceptive tracking controller for unmanned aerial vehicle, is studied via analyzing the error characteristics in this article. Specifically, the following topics are discussed: (1) design the position deceptive tracking controller to make unmanned aerial vehicle deviate from the original path and follow up the spoofed new path point by point, and (2) analyze the related parameters by exploring the characteristics of the initial estimated state errors. Simulation results show the designed controller can realize the position offset of unmanned aerial vehicle unknowingly. What’s more, it can eliminate the initial state errors by selecting appropriate parameters.
A review of the impact of utilising electronic medical records for clinical research recruitment
Authors: Lai Yan See , Afseth Janyne Dawn
Published: February 2019

Introduction:

Recruitment is an important aspect of clinical research, as poor recruitment could undermine the scientific value of a trial or delay the development process of new treatments. The development of electronic medical records provides a new way to identify potential participants for trials by matching the eligibility criteria with patients’ data within electronic medical records.

Methods:

A literature search was performed to examine the effectiveness and efficiency of the electronic medical record recruitment method using MEDLINE, PubMed, PubMed Central, CINAHL Plus with Full Text, ScienceDirect and Cochrane Library databases. These searches generated 11 articles that met the eligibility criteria, and handsearching reference lists generated two additional articles bringing the total number of articles to 13. These articles were subjected to critical appraisal utilising the Effective Public Health Practice Project tool.

Results:

Out of the 13 included articles, 11 provided quantitative data on recruitment effectiveness while seven articles provided quantitative data on recruitment efficiency. The automation in screening and patient identification by using alerts, a notification system, to notify research staff of a potential participant, was observed to contribute to higher recruitment yield and reduced workload due to its specificity on participant screening. The use of electronic medical record alerts was found to be associated with better recruitment outcomes when they were sent to dedicated research staff rather than physicians. Using electronic medical records for recruitment was found to be effective due to its capability for patient identification outside working hours and fast processing time, which was particularly useful for clinical trials in acute conditions. Several challenges may hinder the impact of the electronic medical record recruitment method, including the lack of conformity of clinical trial eligibility criteria and electronic medical record data structure and missing data. ‘Alert fatigue’ could also impact on the effectiveness of this method in the long term.

Conclusion:

The results from this review supports electronic medical record being an effective and efficient method for clinical trial recruitment. Recommendations were made in order to maximise the potential of the electronic medical record recruitment method and also for future research in order to improve the quality of evidence to support this strategy for recruitment.
Probabilistic model of degradation of cable insulations in nuclear power plants
Authors: Chang Yuan-Shang , Mosleh Ali
Published: February 2019

Possible degradation of cable insulations exposed to radiation and heat is a safety and operational concern for nuclear power plants, particularly in the context of a license extension for the operation beyond original 40-year design life. Ethylene propylene rubber and silicone rubber are two major materials for the cable insulation. Degradation decreases the elongation at break of the insulation, which may lead to the exposure of the metal core in the cable, causing potential safety issues. This article proposes a mechanistic predictive model for the elongation at break as a function of time, temperature, and radiation dose rate. In the proposed model, the elongation at break curve is divided into an incubation section and a drop-off section with two parameters. In contrast to traditional deterministic approaches, this model projects the expected lifespan of cable insulation in the form of a probability distribution. The article also provides a validation of the model behavior using published experimental data.
Variation of High-Sensitivity Troponin T Results in Patients Undergoing Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy
Authors: Srinivasan Sridhar Vikas , Chen Michael , Gerson Howard , MacNamara Elizabeth , Nessim Sharon J.
Published: February 2019

Background:

Cardiac troponins are the preferred biomarker to diagnose myocardial injury. Complicating the interpretation of serial troponins in patients with end-stage renal disease, it has been shown that the hemodialysis procedure results in a small but significant decline in high-sensitivity cardiac troponins (hs-cTnT). This raises the possibility that continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) might similarly alter cardiac troponin levels and affect their interpretation when cardiac ischemia is being considered.

Objective:

We sought to determine the effect of CRRT on hs-cTnT levels over time in a group of patients without active myocardial injury.

Design:

Prospective, observational study

Setting:

Single tertiary care hospital, Montreal, Quebec

Patients:

Ten critically ill patients with acute kidney injury (AKI) undergoing CRRT. Cardiac ICU (intensive care unit) patients and acute coronary syndrome patients were excluded from the study. The CRRT prescription was at the discretion of the treating intensivist and relatively high doses were used in this study.

Measurements:

The hs-cTnT levels were drawn pre-CRRT, within 6 hours of initiation, and approximately every 6 hours thereafter along with routine CRRT blood work.

Methods:

Changes in hs-cTnT, creatinine, and albumin levels were recorded over the course of CRRT. Mean change in serum analyte concentration and 95% confidence interval was determined for specified time intervals relative to baseline, with paired t tests used to determine statistical significance.

Results:

Among the 10 patients included in the study, the cause of AKI was primarily acute tubular necrosis from septic shock or hemorrhagic shock. Compared with baseline hs-cTnT levels prior to CRRT initiation, mean hs-cTnT level fell by 42% at 5 to 10 hours post-CRRT initiation, followed by a plateauing of levels for the duration of time on CRRT.

Limitations:

Single-center study only applicable to hs-cTnT assay.

Conclusions:

This study demonstrates a significant decrease in hs-cTnT within 5 to 10 hours of CRRT initiation. This suggests that interpretation of cardiac troponin changes during CRRT must take into consideration the timing of dialysis initiation relative to the time of sample collection.
Weight stigma and acculturation in relation to hair cortisol among Asian Americans with overweight and obesity: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Wu Ya-Ke , Berry Diane C , Schwartz Todd A
Published: February 2019

Weight stigma is a pervasive problem for Americans, but little is known about its impact on the health of Asian Americans. Authors examined the relationship between weight stigma and cortisol and whether acculturation moderated this relationship. Asian Americans ( n = 166) with overweight or obesity completed questionnaires and provided a 50-mg hair sample to assay cortisol. Results revealed a negative correlation between weight stigma and cortisol. However, this was no longer significant after controlling of relevant covariates. The level of acculturation did not significantly moderate this relationship. The non-significant relationships among weight stigma, cortisol, and acculturation are discussed along with future directions.
Technology-Facilitated Stalking and Unwanted Sexual Messages/Images in a College Campus Community: The Role of Negative Peer Support
Authors: DeKeseredy Walter S. , Schwartz Martin D. , Harris Bridget , Woodlock Delanie , Nolan James , Hall-Sanchez Amanda
Published: February 2019

Researchers have accumulated much social scientific knowledge about the scope, distribution, causes, and outcomes of the physical and sexual abuse of female students in North American institutions of higher learning. However, surveys of technology-facilitated stalking and the dissemination of unwanted sexual messages/images in college campus communities are in short supply. The few that have been conducted do not identify key sociological risk factors associated with these two electronic forms of victimization. This paper, then, has two objectives: (1) to examine the influence of two types of negative peer support and (2) to determine if being the target of technology-facilitated stalking and receiving unwanted sexual messages/images are associated with female students’ intimate partner violence and sexual assault experiences. The results confirm that the two variants of negative peer support examined in this study are significant predictors of digital victimization and that such abuse is strongly associated with intimate partner violence and sexual assault.
The Safety Profile of Percutaneous Minimally Invasive Sacroiliac Joint Fusion
Authors: Shamrock Alan Gregory , Patel Anand , Alam Milad , Shamrock Keith Hayden , Al Maaieh Motasem
Published: February 2019

Study Design:

Literature review.

Objectives:

Systematic review of the existing literature to determine the safety of minimally invasive (MI) sacroiliac (SI) joint fusion through the determination of the rate of procedural and device-related intraoperative and postoperative complications.

Methods:

All original studies with reported complication rates were included for analysis. Complications were defined as procedural if secondary to the MI surgery and device related if caused by placement of the implant. Complication rates are reported using descriptive statistics. Random-effects meta-analysis was performed for preoperative and postoperative Visual Analog Score (VAS) pain ratings and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores.

Results:

Fourteen studies of 720 patients (499 females/221 males) with a mean follow-up of 22 months were included. Ninety-nine patients (13.75%) underwent bilateral SI joint arthrodesis resulting in a total of 819 SI joints fused. There were 91 reported procedural-related complications (11.11%) with the most common adverse event being surgical wound infection/drainage (n = 17). Twenty-five adverse events were attributed to be secondary to placement of the implant (3.05%) with nerve root impingement (n = 13) being the most common. The revision rate was 2.56%. MI SI joint fusion reduced VAS scores from 82.42 (95% confidence interval [CI] 79.34-85.51) to 29.03 (95% CI 25.05-33.01) and ODI scores from 57.44 (95% CI 54.73-60.14) to 29.42 (95% CI 20.62-38.21).

Conclusions:

MI SI joint fusion is a relatively safe procedure but is not without certain risks. Further work must be done to optimize the procedure’s complication profile. Possible areas of improvement include preoperative patient optimization, operative technique, and use of intraoperative real-time imaging.
Biomechanical and Functional Outcomes After Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction: A Pilot Study
Authors: Shams Kameron , DiCesare Christopher A. , Grawe Brian M. , Wall Eric , Parikh Shital N. , Galloway Marc , Kitchen Katie , Foss Kim Barber , Thomas Staci M. , Montalvo Alicia M. , Colosimo Angelo J. , Myer Gregory D.
Published: February 2019

Background:

Previous studies have acknowledged the medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) as the primary stabilizer of the patella, preventing lateral displacement. MPFL reconstruction (MPFL-R) restores stability and functionality to the patellofemoral joint and has emerged as a preferred treatment option for recurrent lateral patellar instability.

Purpose:

To objectively measure biomechanical characteristics of athletes cleared for return to sport after MPFL-R compared with healthy controls.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A prospective case-control study design was employed on 31 total athletes. Sixteen athletes (6 male, 10 female; mean age, 16.1 ± 2.74 years; 385 ± 189 days after surgery and 235 ± 157 days after return to sport) underwent MPFL-R and were medically cleared to return to sport. This group was matched by age, sex, and activity level to 15 healthy athletes with no history of lower extremity injuries. Athletes and controls completed validated questionnaires as well as hopping, jumping, and cutting tests with 3-dimensional motion analysis and underwent strength, flexibility, laxity, and balance assessments.

Results:

Participants in the MPFL-R group scored significantly lower (worse) on the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) (89.2 ± 7.6 vs 98.1 ± 2.0, respectively; P = .0005) and significantly higher (worse) on the Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia (TSK) (32.4 ± 5.0 vs 25.4 ± 6.5, respectively; P = .006) than those in the control group, but there was no difference in the Kujala score (95.6 ± 5.3 vs 98.8 ± 3.0, respectively; P = .06). Participants in the MPFL-R group demonstrated reduced hip and ankle flexion relative to those in the control group ( P < .05). Participants in the MPFL-R group also took significantly longer to complete the 6-m timed hop test relative to those in the control group ( P < .05). No statistically significant differences were found in anthropometrics, knee extension or flexion strength, hamstring flexibility, hip abduction strength, or joint laxity between the MPFL-R and control groups.

Conclusion:

The current data indicate that MPFL-R generally restores functional symmetry, while subtle deficits in global power may remain after being released to full activity. Clinicians should ensure that athletes are fully rehabilitated before returning to sport after MPFL-R by emphasizing functional multijoint exercises.
Development, Implementation, and Use of a Neurology Therapeutics Committee
Authors: Clark Edward B. , Butterfield Russell J. , Filloux Francis M. , Bonkowsky Joshua L.
Published: February 2019

Innovative therapeutics are transforming care of children with previously untreatable neurological disorders. However, there are challenges in the use of new therapies: the medicine may not be effective in all patients, administration may not be tolerated, and matching therapy choice to patient is complex. Finally, costs are high, which imposes financial burdens on insurance companies, families, and the health-care system. Our objective was to address challenges for clinical implementation of the new therapeutics. We sought to develop a process that would be personalized for patient and disease, encourage appropriate use of a therapeutic agent while mitigating pressure on a clinician to prescribe the therapy in all instances, and assist third-party payers in approving therapeutic use based on safety and efficacy. We report our creation of a Neurology Therapeutics Committee for pediatric patients. We review the committee’s mechanisms, describe its use and report outcomes, and suggest the Neurology Therapeutics Committee’s broader applicability.
Iron catalyst supported on modified kaolin for catalytic wet peroxide oxidation
Authors: Boukhemkhem Ali , Rida Kamel , Pizarro Alejandro H. , Molina Carmen B. , Rodriguez Juan J.
Published: February 2019

An iron catalyst supported on the modified Tamazert kaolin has been prepared and tested in catalytic wet peroxide oxidation using phenol and 4-chlorophenol (4-CP) as target compounds (100 mg/L initial concentration). Kaolin is not usually employed as a catalytic support due to its low developed porous structure, but its textural properties may be improved upon calcination and acid and basic treatment. The catalyst was characterized by N2 adsorption–desorption and chemical analysis by total-reflection X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy. The catalytic tests were carried out in a batch reactor with a stoichiometric amount of H2O2. The catalytic efficiency was studied within the temperature range of 25–55°C at an initial pH of 3.3 and 1 g/L catalyst. Complete phenol and 4-CP removal was achieved with no significant differences in phenol and 4-CP conversions within the temperature range tested. Meanwhile, total organic carbon (TOC) reduction was greatly favoured by increasing the temperature, which may be partially attributed to a probable contribution of a homogeneous reaction associated with iron leaching. However, this effect might be of limited significance because the highest concentrations of iron in the liquid phase were below 4.5 and 8.5 mg/L in the experiments with phenol and 4-CP, respectively. At 55°C, TOC was reduced by ~70% after 4 h reaction time, with the remaining by-products corresponding almost completely to low-molecular-weight carboxylic acids of very low ecotoxicity.
Cognitive performance and functional outcomes of carriers of pathogenic copy number variants: analysis of the UK Biobank
Authors: Kendall Kimberley M. , Bracher-Smith Matthew , Fitzpatrick Harry , Lynham Amy , Rees Elliott , Escott-Price Valentina , Owen Michael J. , O'Donovan Michael C. , Walters James T.R. , Kirov George
Published: February 2019

Background

Rare copy number variants (CNVs) are associated with risk of neurodevelopmental disorders characterised by varying degrees of cognitive impairment, including schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorder and intellectual disability. However, the effects of many individual CNVs in carriers without neurodevelopmental disorders are not yet fully understood, and little is known about the effects of reciprocal copy number changes of known pathogenic loci.

Aims

We aimed to analyse the effect of CNV carrier status on cognitive performance and measures of occupational and social outcomes in unaffected individuals from the UK Biobank.

Method

We called CNVs in the full UK Biobank sample and analysed data from 420 247 individuals who passed CNV quality control, reported White British or Irish ancestry and were not diagnosed with neurodevelopmental disorders. We analysed 33 pathogenic CNVs, including their reciprocal deletions/duplications, for association with seven cognitive tests and four general measures of functioning: academic qualifications, occupation, household income and Townsend Deprivation Index.

Results

Most CNVs (24 out of 33) were associated with reduced performance on at least one cognitive test or measure of functioning. The changes on the cognitive tests were modest (average reduction of 0.13 s.d.) but varied markedly between CNVs. All 12 schizophrenia-associated CNVs were associated with significant impairments on measures of functioning.

Conclusions

CNVs implicated in neurodevelopmental disorders, including schizophrenia, are associated with cognitive deficits, even among unaffected individuals. These deficits may be subtle but CNV carriers have significant disadvantages in educational attainment and ability to earn income in adult life.

Declaration of interest

None.
Anisotropic Yield Criteria for Aluminum Alloy Sheets
Authors: Banabic Dorel , Comsa Dan Sorin , Balan Tudor
Published: February 2019

Anisotropy is a key feature of the plastic behavior of aluminum alloy sheets. Significant research efforts have been dedicated during the past few decades to characterize and model this behavior. Advanced anisotropic yield criteria are available today in the scientific literature. This article reviews the most important yield criteria, in historical order, with an emphasis on the models particularly adapted to aluminum alloys. Along with the mathematical description, illustrations of their performance are provided together with the parameter identification procedure and the required input data. The mechanical parameters that describe plastic anisotropy are also summarized. The relevance of the available models for practical applications is analyzed, and guidance is provided for the selection and aware use of these yield criteria in engineering.
Quality Parameters for High-Pressure Diecastings
Authors: Lumley Roger
Published: February 2019

Techniques of examining casting quality as it relates to high-pressure die casting (HPDC) are evaluated. The roles of some simple parameters are considered in the as-cast and heat-treated conditions. Failure of HPDCs is influenced by a complex interaction of a variety of casting defects. Complex strain localization and failure occurs in HPDCs, which results in a proportionately large fraction of defects appearing on the fracture surface. The methodology developed is expanded to evaluate industrially produced components as a means to produce a universal quality metric. The effect of heat treatment on quality is also evaluated. Of the different analyses conducted, all may differentiate casting quality, but some complimentary techniques (e.g., Weibull statistics combined with flow curve derivations based on the Ludwik–Hollomon equation) are extremely useful.
Hall–Heroult Process
Authors: Martínez-Cázares Gabriela M. , Lozano Diego
Published: February 2019

The principle of electrolysis in the production of primary aluminum has been used for more than 100 years. The Hall–Heroult process is based on the electrochemical reaction of alumina dissolved in cryolite, and the use of large amounts of current to promote the reactions. Aluminum of 99%–99.5% purity can be obtained from this process. The principle, reactions, and the electrolytic cell are briefly addressed in this article.
Microstructure and Microhardness of AlZnMnMg Alloy During Heat Treatment
Authors: Valdez-Rodríguez S. , Campillo B. , Islas J. J.
Published: February 2019

In this work, the structural changes induced by the chemical nature of alloyed elements and aged treatment showed a beneficial connection with hardness and electrochemical degradation performance. Al-based alloys were investigated by means of the Vickers hardness test, in order to determine the effect of aging treatment on the hardness; X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy were used to identify the phase transformation by the casting and ageing treatment; finally, a short-term electrochemical test to know the electrochemical performance. The results show that the formation of the (MgZn)49Al32 phase occurs under two conditions: when the magnesium content is more than 5.49% in as-cast condition, and the thermal treatment carried out at 450°C for 5 h. In addition, the hardness and electrochemical performance have been influenced by the presence and quantity of the (MgZn)49Al32 phase. The addition of magnesium alloy modifies the microstructure, increases the content of the (MgZn)49Al32 phase, and provides a localized corrosion, which leads to the breakdown of the oxide film (γ-Al2O3) formed on the Al alloy surface.
Corrosion Inhibitors: Effect on Aluminum Alloys
Authors: Adams Feyisayo Victoria , Mokgatla Mbali , Ishak Abubakar , Onwujiuba Chukwuma Valentine , Moses Pwafureino Reuel , Okorodudu Utseoritselaju
Published: February 2019

Aluminum alloys are less corrosion resistance compared to the pure aluminum. The less corrosion resistance of the aluminum alloys results from trading their mechanical strength and stability with their corrosion resistance. Aluminum alloys show inhibition in alkaline, acidic, neutral chloride free, and chloride media. This study covers studies done on different inhibitors used in corrosion inhibition of aluminum alloys in various media. Generally, the inhibition efficiency of the inhibitors increases with increase in the concentration of the inhibitors. The inhibition efficiency also depends on the characteristic of the inhibitor; whether it is a mixed-type, anodic, or cathodic inhibitor. The experimental data fit in Langmuir adsorption isotherm indicates physical adsorption, while Gibb’s free energy values show that aluminum alloys’ corrosion inhibition is by spontaneous adsorption process. The addition of chloride in alkaline solution improves corrosion inhibition of aluminum alloys.
Corrosion-Induced Hydrogen Embrittlement in AA2024
Authors: Haidemenopoulos G.N. , Kamoutsi Helen J.
Published: February 2019

Embrittlement of aluminum alloy 2024 caused by corrosion-induced hydrogen evolution and trapping is discussed in this article. The current literature on corrosion mechanisms, hydrogen trapping, and mechanisms of hydrogen embrittlement is briefly reviewed. Accelerated corrosion tests followed by thermal desorption spectroscopy enabled the identification of hydrogen traps in the microstructure of the material. The nature of these traps was identified by controlled experiments involving solution treatments and plastic deformation prior to corrosion, in order to alter the alloy microstructure. The high-temperature trap is related to the S–CuMgAl2 phase. In the absence of this phase, hydrogen is trapped in vacancies, which liberate hydrogen at even higher temperatures. The lower temperature trap is related to dislocations. The hydrogen trapped at dislocations increases with plastic strain up to a certain strain and then decreases. The hydrogen generated by corrosion diffuses in the interior of the material and establishes a hydrogen-affected zone beneath the corrosion layer. Removal of the corrosion layer leads to complete restoration of yield strength but only partial restoration of ductility. Removal of the corrosion layer and heating at a high enough temperature to activate all traps for hydrogen desorption leads to complete restoration of ductility. A mechanism of corrosion-induced hydrogen embrittlement is suggested.
Nanocomposites with Aluminum Matrix: Preparation and Properties
Authors: Fiocchi Jacopo , Casati Riccardo , Vedani Maurizio
Published: February 2019

Metal matrix nanocomposites are a novel class of materials, consisting of a metallic matrix reinforced by nanoparticles. They display interesting mechanical and functional properties, which can be carefully tailored and may be largely different than those of the base metal. Aluminum matrix nanocomposites have risen particular attention thanks to their low density and improved strength. Some issues in the production of nanocomposites are caused by the low wettability of nanoparticles; hence, innovative synthesis methods have been developed. In this work, the main production routes are reviewed; moreover, the strengthening mechanism acting in nanocomposites and the resulting mechanical properties are reported. Finally, the influence of reinforcement on precipitation processes in aluminum-based composites and some potential applications are described.
Thermal Spray Coatings: Aluminum Alloy Protection
Authors: Babu Pitchuka Suresh , Srinivasa Rao D. , Krishna Ligamaneni Rama , Sundararajan Govindan , Agarwal Arvind
Published: February 2019

Although aluminum (Al) and its alloys have an advantage of high specific strength, their applicability is limited due to relatively low hardness and low wear, corrosion, and heat resistance. The surface modification route provides an interesting platform to achieve the required engineering properties. In this direction, depositing different coatings, broadly classified as metallic, ceramic, cermet, composite, and functional material, on Al alloys using various thermal spray techniques is discussed with more emphasis on the electrical, thermal, wear, corrosion, and fatigue properties. The choice of techniques, namely plasma, high-velocity oxy-fuel, detonation, and cold spray is discussed based on the coating material type and application requirements. This article presents a brief summary of numerous studies reported under the aforementioned material categories, highlighting the influence of feedstock chemistry, spray parameters on various properties of coatings, resulting functional performance along with the potential applications in diverse industrial segments.
Hall–Petch Relationship in Aluminum and Aluminum Alloys
Authors: Armstrong Ronald W.
Published: February 2019

The mechanical properties of aluminum are shown to be of special importance beginning from the early 20th-century production of the material in single crystal and polycrystalline form. Experimental and theoretical researches of the time were concerned with particular influence of polycrystalline microstructure and the presence of crystal (grain) boundaries on both the material strength properties and on relation of those same properties to those for the full range of metal and alloy structures. Now it is well established that a relatively low value of the microstructural stress intensity, kε, is obtained for aluminum in the generalized Hall–Petch relation for its stress–strain, σε − ε, behavior depending on the average grain diameter, l, with intercept (friction) stress, σ0ε, which relation is given as:
id="unequ63_1">σε=σ0ε+kεl−1/2

With hindsight, taking σε = σ0ε provided the first connection between single crystal and polycrystalline strength measurements in the pioneering Taylor theory of plasticity proposed for aluminum and other face-centered cubic metals. Later, conventional and ultrafine grain size measurements are shown to verify the fuller H–P dependence. The present account builds onto the early history. A description is given for temperature, strain rate, and alloy-dependent mechanical property measurements. An understanding of the total measurements is described in terms of a dislocation pile-up model description for the relation. Emphasis is given to kε for pure aluminum and related metals being determined by cross-slip forced at grain boundaries. Particular attention is given to two characteristics of the metal mechanical behavior: (1) very high rate loading deformations leading to shock and shock-less isentropic compression experiments and (2) important grain size influences on nanopolycrystalline material behaviors. Additional results are presented on H–P aspects of the material strain ageing, shear banding, ductile fracturing, and fatigue behaviors.
Aerospace Fasteners: Use in Structural Applications
Authors: Melhem George Nadim
Published: February 2019

Aircraft components need to be selected and manufactured to adequately combat the environment, temperature, loading, compatibility, and so on. When structural materials such as aluminum alloys or fiber-reinforced polymer composites need to be joined in aircraft, the selection of fasteners, bolts, rivets, adhesives, and other methods need to be quantitatively assessed in order that the correct design for the component and joining method is identified. There is a variety of fasteners, bolts, and rivets, made using a variety of materials. Aluminum rivets are often used to join aluminum components in an aircraft. Rivets do not perform well under tension loading, but perform better in shear, thus limiting the application specifically for these purposes. Bolts are designed to clamp material together, and even though the bolt may be adequate to support a particular structure and load requirement, consideration must also be given to the modulus of elasticity and stiffness of the components that are being clamped together. Therefore, an understanding of each of the materials being clamped or joined together is necessary. Bolts manufactured from steel, for instance, have coatings applied in order to help protect them from corrosion. The use of composites translates to a reduced number of rivets and fasteners to be used. Drilling of holes into composites to insert fasteners poses many challenges because the fibers are damaged, a region of high stress concentration may be formed, and the hole is a site for the ingress of water or moisture. The insertion of aluminum fasteners or the contact of aluminum components with carbon fibers creates galvanic corrosion due to the large difference in electrical potential. Titanium alloy (Ti-6Al-4V) is a typical fastener where there is composite joining due to its better compatibility (elimination of galvanic corrosion) and increased strength properties. Substitution of rivets and fasteners for welding is also on the increase in aircraft because laser beam welding (LBW) and friction stir welding both reduce cracking, porosity, and better properties achieved due to deeper penetration, and reduce the heat-affected zone which would typically be undesirable with conventional arc welding such as metal inert gas and tungsten inert gas welding. The shear and compressive stresses are increased, and fatigue cracking, weight, and cost are also reduced as a result of LBW, including the elimination of stresses and corrosion associated with rivets and the elimination of adhesives. Dissimilar metals such as the 7000 series and the 2000 series can be joined with a filler metal compatible to both metals to mitigate galvanic corrosion.
Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation (PEO) Coatings on Aluminum Alloys: Kinetics and Formation Mechanism
Authors: Lugovskoy Alex , Snizhko Lyubov
Published: February 2019

In this review, the main kinetics and mechanism regularities of plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) of aluminum alloys are discussed. The material and heat balances of the PEO process, including anomalous gas evolution and possible thermochemical reactions are presented for the first time. Side effects accompanying spark discharges from both the surface and the electrolyte sides are analyzed. The influences of electrical regime (direct, alternative, and pulse current) on the rate of coatings growth are summarized from the electrochemical point of view. Different modes of anodic polarization and electrolyte composition (alkaline solutions with inorganic polymers and dispersed constituents) are discussed in the applicative aspect.