bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regeneration of grade 3 ankle sprain, using the recombinant human amelogenin protein (rHAM+) in a rat model
Authors: Hanhan Salem , Goren Koby , Rivkin Amit , Saba Faris , Nevo Hani , Dar Naama , Shilo Dekel , Liebergall Meir , Shoseyov Oded , Deutsch Dan , Blumenfeld Anat , Haze Amir
Published: May 2020

Lateral ligament tears, also known as high‐grade ankle sprains, are common, debilitating, and usually heal slowly. Ten to thirty percent of patients continue to suffer from chronic pain and ankle instability even after 3 to 9 months. Previously, we showed that the recombinant human amelogenin (rHAM+) induced regeneration of fully transected rat medial collateral ligament, a common proof‐of‐concept model. Our aim was to evaluate whether rHAM+ can regenerate torn ankle calcaneofibular ligament (CFL), an important component of the lateral ankle stabilizers. Right CFLs of Sabra rats were transected and treated with 0, 0.5, or 1 µg/µL rHAM+ dissolved in propylene glycol alginate (PGA). Results were compared with the normal group, without surgery. Healing was evaluated 12 weeks after treatment by mechanical testing (ratio between the right and left, untransected ligaments of the same rat), and histology including immunohistochemical staining of collagen I and S100. The mechanical properties, structure, and composition of transected ligaments treated with 0.5 μg/μL rHAM+ (experimental) were similar to untransected ligaments. PGA (control) treated ligaments were much weaker, lax, and unorganized compared with untransected ligaments. Treatment with 1 μg/μL rHAM+ was not as efficient as 0.5 μg/μL rHAM+. Normal arrangement of collagen I fibers and of proprioceptive nerve endings, parallel to the direction of the force, was detected in ligaments treated with 0.5 μg/μL rHAM+, and scattered arrangement, resembling scar tissue, in control ligaments. In conclusion, we showed that rHAM+ induced significant mechanical and structural regeneration of torn rat CFLs, which might be translated into treatment for grades 2 and 3 ankle sprain injuries.
A geometric ratio to predict the flexion gap in total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Elmasry Shady S. , Sculco Peter K. , Kia Mohammad , Kahlenberg Cynthia A. , Cross Michael B. , Pearle Andrew D. , Mayman David J. , Wright Timothy M. , Westrich Geoffrey H. , Imhauser Carl W.
Published: May 2020

Measured resection is a common technique for obtaining symmetric flexion and extension gaps in posterior‐stabilized (PS) total knee arthroplasty (TKA). A known limitation of measured resection, however, is its reliance on osseous landmarks to guide bone resection and component alignment while ignoring the geometry of the surrounding soft tissues such as the medial collateral ligament (MCL), a possible reason for knee instability. To address this clinical concern, we introduce a new geometric proportion, the MCL ratio, which incorporates features of condylar geometry and MCL anterior fibers. The goal of this study was to determine whether the MCL ratio can predict the flexion gaps and to determine whether a range of MCL ratio corresponds to balanced gaps. Six computational knee models each implanted with PS TKA were utilized. Medial and lateral gaps were measured in response to varus and valgus loads at extension and flexion. The MCL ratio was related to the measured gaps for each knee. We found that the MCL ratio was associated with the flexion gaps and had a stronger association with the medial gap (β = −7.2 ± 3.05, P < .001) than with the lateral gap (β = 3.9 ± 7.26, P = .04). In addition, an MCL ratio ranging between 1.1 and 1.25 corresponded to balanced flexion gaps in the six knee models. Future studies will focus on defining MCL ratio targets after accounting for variations in ligament properties in TKA patients. Our results suggest that the MCL ratio could help guide femoral bone resections in measured resection TKA, but further clinical validation is required.
Hydrazine‐Enabled One‐Step Synthesis of Metal Nanoparticle–Functionalized Gradient Porous Poly(ionic liquid) Membranes
Authors: KhorsandKheirabad Atefeh , Zhou Xianjing , Xie Dongjiu , Wang Hong , Yuan Jiayin
Published: May 2020

In this communication, a one‐step synthetic route is reported toward free‐standing metal‐nanoparticle‐functionalized gradient porous polyelectrolyte membranes (PPMs). The membranes are produced by soaking a glass‐plate‐supported blend film that consists of a hydrophobic poly(ionic liquid) (PIL), poly(acrylic acid), and a metal salt, into an aqueous hydrazine solution. Upon diffusion of water and hydrazine molecules into the blend film, a phase separation process of the hydrophobic PIL and an ionic crosslinking reaction via interpolyelectrolyte complexation occur side by side to form the PPM. Simultaneously, due to the reductive nature of hydrazine, the metal salt inside the polymer blend film is reduced in situ by hydrazine into metal nanoparticles that anchor onto the PPM. The as‐obtained hybrid porous membrane is proven functional in the catalytic reduction of p‐nitrophenol. This one‐step method to grow metal nanoparticles and gradient porous membranes can simplify future fabrication processes of multifunctional PPMs.
Dysregulated Brain Cholesterol Metabolism Is Linked to Neuroinflammation in Huntington's Disease
Authors: González‐Guevara Edith , Cárdenas Graciela , Pérez‐Severiano Francisca , Martínez‐Lazcano Juan Carlos
Published: May 2020

Huntington's disease is an autosomal‐dominant, neurodegenerative disorder caused by a CAG repeat expansion in exon‐1 of the huntingtin gene. Alterations in cholesterol metabolism and distribution have been reported in Huntington's disease, including abnormal interactions between mutant huntingtin and sterol regulatory element‐binding proteins, decreased levels of apolipoprotein E/cholesterol/low‐density lipoprotein receptor complexes, and alterations in the synthesis of ATP‐binding cassette transporter A1. Plasma levels of 24S‐hydroxycholestrol, a key intermediary in cholesterol metabolism and a possible marker in neurodegenerative diseases, decreased proportionally to the degree of caudate nucleus atrophy. The interaction of mutant huntingtin with sterol regulatory element‐binding proteins is of particular interest given that sterol regulatory element‐binding proteins play a dual role: They take part in lipid and cholesterol metabolism, but also in the inflammatory response that induces immune cell migration as well as toxic effects, particularly in astrocytes. This work summarizes current evidence on the metabolic and immune implications of sterol regulatory element‐binding protein dysregulation in Huntington's disease, highlighting the potential use of drugs that modulate these alterations. © 2020 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Novel mutation in USP26 associated with azoospermia in a Sertoli cell‐only syndrome patient
Authors: Arafat Maram , Zeadna Atif , Levitas Eliahu , Har Vardi Iris , Samueli Benzion , Shaco‐Levy Ruth , Dabsan Salam , Lunenfeld Eitan , Huleihel Mahmoud , Parvari Ruti
Published: May 2020

Background

Ubiquitin‐Specific Peptidase 26 (USP26), located on the X chromosome, encodes a deubiquitinating enzyme expressed mainly in testis, where it regulates protein turnover during spermatogenesis and modulates the ubiquitination levels of the Androgen Receptor (AR), and as a consequence, affects AR signaling.

Methods

The patient was thoroughly characterized clinically. He was genetically tested by chromosome analysis and whole exome sequencing (WES).

Results

The patient was diagnosed with Sertoli cell‐only syndrome pattern (SCOS). The WES analysis revealed only the variation in USP26: causing p.P469S in a highly evolutionary conserved amino acid as the possible cause for SCOS. The literature search identified 34 single variations and 14 clusters of variations in USP26 that were associated with male infertility. Only one of the 22 variations and of one cluster of three mutations tested for ubiquitination activity was found as damaging. Only one out of six variations tested for effect on AR function was found as damaging. Thus, the association of USP26 with male fertility was questioned.

Conclusions

The finding in our patient and the discussion on the reviewed literature support a possible role for USP26 in male fertility.
Numerical investigation with stability analysis of time‐fractional Korteweg‐de Vries equations
Authors: Ullah Saif , Butt A. I. K. , Aish Buhader Anum
Published: May 2020

In this paper, existing classical Korteweg‐de Vries (KdV) equations are converted into the corresponding time‐fractional KdV equations by using Caputo‐Fabrizio fractional derivative and then solved with appropriate initial conditions by implementing semi‐numerical technique, that is, Laplace transform together with an iterative scheme. The obtained solutions are novel, and previous literature lacks such derivations. The stability of implemented technique is analyzed by applying Banach contraction principle and S‐stable mapping. Efficiency of Caputo‐Fabrizio fractional derivative is exhibited through graphical illustrations, and fractional results are drafted in tabular form for specific values of fractional parameter to validate the numerical investigation.
Stability analysis for a nonlinear coupled system of fractional hybrid delay differential equations
Authors: Ahmad Israr , Shah Kamal , ur Rahman Ghaus , Baleanu Dumitru
Published: May 2020

The main objective of this research work is to establish existence results as well as to study qualitative aspects of the proposed coupled system of fractional hybrid delay differential equations (FHDDEs). Using the hybrid fixed point theory, we establish appropriate results for the existence of at least one solution to our problem. The powerful tools of functional analysis and dynamical systems are applied to derive different kinds of stability analysis. These include Ulam‐Hyers (UH), generalized Ulam‐Hyers (GUH), Ulam‐Hyers‐Rassias (UHR), and generalized Ulam‐Hyers‐Rassias (GUHR). In order to provide the authenticity of the our results, an illustrative example is given to wind up the present research work.
Purdue University Global hosts virtual reality commencement experience
Authors: Pavlik Amelia
Published: May 2020

Looking for ideas for how to celebrate your institution's graduates while in‐person ceremonies aren't possible? Or ways to honor your online students any time?
The roles of non‐production vegetation in agroecosystems: A research framework for filling process knowledge gaps in a social‐ecological context
Authors: Case Bradley S. , Pannell Jennifer L. , Stanley Margaret C. , Norton David A. , Brugman Anoek , Funaki Matt , Mathieu Chloé , Songling Cao , Suryaningrum Febyana , Buckley Hannah L.
Published: May 2020

An ever‐expanding human population, climatic changes and the spread of intensive farming practices are putting increasing pressure on agroecosystems and their inherent biodiversity. Non‐production vegetation elements, such as woody patches, riparian margins and restoration plantings, are vital for conserving agroecosystem biodiversity. Furthermore, such elements are key building blocks that are manipulated via land management, thereby influencing the biotic and abiotic processes that underpin functioning agroecosystems.

Despite this critical role, there has been a lack of synthesis on which types of vegetation elements drive and/or support ecological processes, and the mechanisms by which this occurs. Using a systematic, quantitative literature review of 342 articles, we asked the following questions: what are the effects of non‐production vegetation on agroecosystem processes and how are these processes measured within global agroecosystems?

Woody patches, hedgerows and borders, riparian margins, and shelterbelts were the most studied types of non‐production vegetation. The majority (61%) of studies showed positive effects of non‐production vegetation on ecological processes, where the presence, level or rate of the studied process was increased or enhanced.

However, four key research gaps were revealed: (a) most studies (83%) used proxies for, instead of direct measurements of, ecosystem processes related to non‐production vegetation; (b) study designs used to investigate non‐production vegetation effects on ecosystem processes directly were largely limited to observational comparisons of non‐production vegetation types, farm‐scale vegetation configurations and different proximities to vegetation in terms of the effect on ecological processes; relatively few studies used manipulative experiments; (c) the relatively few studies directly measuring ecosystem processes were dominated by four process categories: invertebrate biocontrol, predator and natural enemy spillover, animal movement, and ecosystem cycling and (d) the methods used to directly measure non‐production vegetation effects comprised a surprisingly limited set of approaches.

To fill key research gaps that will inform the use of non‐production vegetation to enhance agroecosystem processes, we present a framework for future research that emphasizes the need to combine an understanding of human decision‐making with carefully designed and targeted investigations into the roles of taxa, ecosystem processes, and landscape heterogeneity related to non‐production vegetation, at multiple spatial scales within agroecosystems.
Identifying drugs with disease‐modifying potential in Parkinson's disease using artificial intelligence and pharmacoepidemiology
Authors: Maclagan Laura C. , Visanji Naomi P. , Cheng Yi , Tadrous Mina , Lacoste Alix M. B. , Kalia Lorraine V. , Bronskill Susan E. , Marras Connie
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The aim of the study was to assess the feasibility of an approach combining computational methods and pharmacoepidemiology to identify potentially disease‐modifying drugs in Parkinson's disease (PD).

Methods

We used a two‐step approach; (a) computational method using artificial intelligence to rank 620 drugs in the Ontario Drug Benefit formulary based on their predicted ability to inhibit alpha‐synucleinaggregation, a pathogenic hallmark of PD; and (b) case‐control study using administrative databases in Ontario, Canada. Persons aged 70‐110 years with incident PD from April 2002‐March 2013. Controls were randomly selected from persons with no previous diagnosis of PD.

Results

A total of 15 of the top 50 drugs were deemed feasible for pharmacoepidemiologic analysis, of which seven were significantly associated with incident PD after adjustment, with five of these seven associated with a decreased odds of PD. Methylxanthine drugs pentoxifylline (OR, 0.72; 95% CI, 0.59‐0.89) and theophylline (OR, 0.77; 95% CI, 0.66‐0.91), and the corticosteroid dexamethasone (OR, 0.72; 95% CI, 0.61‐0.85) were associated with decreased odds of PD.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate the feasibility of this approach to focus the search for disease‐modifying drugs. Corticosteroids and methylxanthines should be further investigated as potential disease‐modifyingdrugs in PD.
An exploration of school mobility: Risks and protective factors in late elementary
Authors: Dinnen Hannah L. , Baker Jack , Dallal Renee , Brann Kristy , Flaspohler Paul D.
Published: May 2020

This study explored negative emotional, behavioral, and academic performance outcomes for highly mobile students and potential protective factors. Participants were fourth and fifth‐grade students (N = 647, 51% male) from three schools with low socioeconomic status, highly mobile student populations within a large, suburban school district in the midwestern United States. Data were collected through student self‐report surveys, teacher‐report surveys, and school records. Multilevel moderation analysis tested whether school connectedness (SC) or social and emotional competence (SEC) acted as protective factors for highly mobile students, moderating the effect of school mobility on emotional problems and academic performance. Student mobility was associated with more emotional problems and lower academic performance. In contrast to past research, there was not an association between mobility and behavior problems. Although they did not act as protective factors, SC and SEC were independently associated with fewer emotional problems and stronger reading performance for all students, controlling for mobility. Results build on existing evidence that student mobility has negative effects on emotional and academic outcomes and lend support for interventions focused on enhancing SC and SEC of all students, including those at increased risk due to high mobility.
DFT/TD‐DFT Based Study to Decipher the Proton Transfer Process in Anion Sensing Mechanism of NTS Molecule
Authors: Kediya Siddhi , Manhas Anu , Jha Prakash C.
Published: May 2020

In the present work, we have performed DFT/TD‐DFT studies on NTS [1‐(((4‐(benzo[d]thiazol‐2‐yl) phenyl) imino) methyl) naphthalen‐2‐ol, referred to as 1E] to investigate the cyanide and fluoride anion sensing mechanism via proton transfer process in the ground and excited state. The potential energy curve for the proton transfer in ground (GSIPT) and excited state (ESIPT) suggests that, in case of NTS molecule, keto and enol form co‐exist. Based on the pattern of addition of cyanide on NTS, nucleophilic addition supports GSIPT rather ESIPT. However, fluoride addition showed both GSIPT and barrier less ESIPT processes followed by the deprotonation. From the energy calculations, we have observed that the cyanide addition (nucleophilic) block ICT character due to similar geometries in the ground and excited state, along with the interruption in the conjugation of the molecule. But, in the case of fluoride added product, ICT character was observed owing to the change in geometry of the corresponding states (ground and excited). ESIPT process has also been explained in terms of HOMO‐LUMO electron density, potential energy surfaces and NBO analysis.
Soil water and fuel permeability of a Cambisol in southern Brazil and its spatial behavior: A case study
Authors: Gonçalves‐Maduro Letícia , Armindo Robson André , Turek Maria Eliza , Wendroth Ole
Published: May 2020

The high demand for fuel derived from oil increases the risk of environmental hazard in agricultural fields caused by accidents with the operation of machines and spotting of fuel on the ground. When these accidents occur, a part of the spilled fuel infiltrates and redistributes in the soil according to the fuel's own physical properties. Most fuel products are light nonaqueous‐phase liquids (NAPL) and contain compounds that are toxic and cause damage to the soil and to human health. The transport behavior of fuels in soils has been extensively studied but is lacking knowledge in specific soils with high clay content. This study aimed to evaluate the soil permeability (K) to the transport of water and fuels and their spatial variation in a Cambisol in southern Brazil. Furthermore, the question should be addressed whether Kwater may be used to estimate Kfuels based on the fluid viscosities. Moreover, a spatial variance analysis should evaluate the variability between replicate repacked samples at a particular location in comparison with spatial variability caused by soil texture and bulk density differences. Results showed that Kwater was, on average, 4.5 times smaller than Kgasoline and 1.25 times smaller than Kdiesel, that the correlation between measured and estimated Kfuels was moderately positive for the clayey soil investigated, and that a minimum set of three repacked parallel cores for each sampling location yields a local variance that is much smaller than the semivariance at any lag distance.
Introduction: Theorizing Digital Peripheries
Authors: Szczepanik Petr , Zahrádka Pavel , Macek Jakub
Published: May 2020

The global reach of online platforms and services as well as the globally synchronized flows of audiovisual content might suggest that the global media market is now fully integrated. This book argues contrariwise that the global digital market is far from united and that national borders, center-periphery hierarchies and differences in scale still matter, and perhaps they matter even more than in the analog broadcast era.
Configurable Culture in Wealthy and Developing Markets: A Comparative Cross-National Perspective
Authors: Sinnreich Aram
Published: May 2020

This chapter tracks the awareness and consumption of, engagement with, and attitudes surrounding new, digital, “configurable” cultural forms and practices, using data from surveys conducted across a diverse range of nations. Respondents included English-speaking, online adults in the USA, Canada, Australia, the Philippines, South Africa and the UK. These data are analyzed to examine the correspondences and differences between media consumers living within different cultural, technological and legal regimes. The analysis pays special attention to demographic factors such as age, and geographic divides such as the delta between “advanced economies” and “emerging markets and developing economies.” The data show that these factors have significant, measurable consequences for access to knowledge and cultural participation, in ways that threaten to compound these social inequities in the future. In fact, the data show that user age and national wealth are far greater factors in personal use of digital culture than the size of individual markets, the prevailing copyright law, or the overall level of engagement with digital media among the population at large.
Sync That Tune! The Role of Collective Management of Rights in Film Production and Distribution
Authors: Leška Rudolf
Published: May 2020

Whenever a film is produced and distributed, a license to use the music and sound recording may be needed. While the film producer usually owns the copyright in the film and underlying works or actors’ performances, responsibility for the clearance of rights in music and sound recordings remains largely on the shoulders of users (broadcasters, cinema operators, VOD platforms). They usually need to get a license through a CMO or directly from the rightsholder. In the case of musical works, the procedures are largely standardized, mainly in offline use. When it comes to licensing the rights for cross-border use online or when phonogram producers and performers are involved, the licensing situation becomes messy which introduces significant uncertainty into the market. Instead of advocating state regulation, the author pleads for the development of cross-border industry standards and procedures, good practices and reciprocal agreements between CMOs to be developed in a collaboration of global organizations representing rightsholders.
Exact null octagon
Authors: Belitsky A.V. , Korchemsky G.P.
Published: May 2020

Abstract

We consider the so-called simplest correlation function of four infinitely heavy half-BPS operators in planar

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

= 4 SYM in the limit when the operators are light-like separated in a sequential manner. We find a closed-form expression for the correlation function in this limit as a function of the ’t Hooft coupling and residual cross ratios. Our analysis heavily relies on the factorization of the correlation function into the product of null octagons and on the recently established determinant representation for the latter. We show that the null octagon is given by a Fredholm determinant of a certain integral operator which has a striking similarity to those previously encountered in the study of two-point correlation functions in exactly solvable models at finite temperature and of level spacing distributions in random matrices. This allows us to compute the null octagon exactly by employing a method of differential equations.
On operator growth and emergent Poincaré symmetries
Authors: Magán Javier M. , Simón Joan
Published: May 2020

Abstract

We consider operator growth for generic large-N gauge theories at finite temperature. Our analysis is performed in terms of Fourier modes, which do not mix with other operators as time evolves, and whose correlation functions are determined by their two-point functions alone, at leading order in the large-N limit. The algebra of these modes allows for a simple analysis of the operators with whom the initial operator mixes over time, and guarantees the existence of boundary CFT operators closing the bulk Poincaré algebra, describing the experience of infalling observers. We discuss several existing approaches to operator growth, such as number operators, proper energies, the many-body recursion method, quantum circuit complexity, and comment on its relation to classical chaos in black hole dynamics. The analysis evades the bulk vs boundary dichotomy and shows that all such approaches are the same at both sides of the holographic duality, a statement that simply rests on the equality between operator evolution itself. In the way, we show all these approaches have a natural formulation in terms of the Gelfand-Naimark-Segal (GNS) construction, which maps operator evolution to a more conventional quantum state evolution, and provides an extension of the notion of operator growth to QFT.
Appearance of recurrent adult fibrosarcoma of the soft tissue and loco-regional post-treatment changes on MRI follow-up
Authors: Sedaghat Sam , Schmitz Frederick , Krieger Anne , Sedaghat Maya , Reichardt Benjamin
Published: May 2020

Background

Adult fibrosarcoma (AFS) is a very rare malignant soft tissue tumor, arising from malignant spindle-shaped fibroblasts. We aim to analyze the appearance of recurrent AFS with a focus on configuration and to assess the occurrence of loco-regional post-treatment changes on MRI follow-up.

Methods

One hundred sixty-eight MRI follow-up scans (1.5 T MRI) of 12 patients with histologically proven AFS were reviewed. The recurrent tumors were examined for configuration, limitation, contrast enhancement, and extent and signal intensity on MRI.

Results

The mean age of the patients was 50.2 ± 16.7 years. Forty-two percent of the patients presented recurrent AFS (n = 5). Recurrences occurred 12 ± 6.5 months after tumor resection in the mean. Patients over 55 years of age showed a significantly higher risk for recurrences (RR = 5; 95% CI, 1.8 to 31; p = 0.04). Recurrent AFS was ovoid, nodular, streaky, polycyclic, or fascicular configured with homogeneous/heterogeneous contrast enhancement and well- or ill-defined borders. The intensity of contrast enhancement ranged from rim to marked contrast enhancement. Recurrent AFS mostly showed a muscle iso-intense signal in T1-weighted and a hyperintense signal in PD-weighted/TIRM sequences. The most common post-treatment changes were subcutaneous edema (92%; p = 0.03), muscle edema (75%), and postoperative seroma (50%). Patients with the presence of muscle edema after primary tumor resection had a slightly, but not significantly higher risk for recurrences (RR = 1.75; p = 0.08).

Conclusion

Recurrent AFS shows no common configuration on MRI, as it may appear ovoid, nodular, streaky, polycyclic, or fascicular. Patients with the presence of post-treatment muscle edema have a slightly higher risk for recurrences.

Level of evidence: Level III, therapeutic study
Fallstudien in der psychotherapeutischen Ausbildung
Authors: Neidhart Ela , Löffler-Stastka Henriette
Published: May 2020

Fallstudien werden in der psychotherapeutischen Ausbildung als didaktisches Werkzeug eingesetzt, um das schulenspezifische theoretische Wissen in seiner empirischen Anwendung in der Arbeit mit den KlientInnen/PatientInnen abzubilden. Klinische Einzelfallstudien wiesen in der Vergangenheit zahlreiche Verzerrungsfaktoren auf. Seit den ersten Fallstudien von Freud zeigte sich eine rasche Entwicklung vom Narrativ zur wissenschaftlichen Arbeit. Unterschiedliche Forschungsdesigns ermöglichen die Nutzung der klinischen Einzelfallstudie als Beitrag zum Erkenntnisgewinn über die komplexen Vorgänge in einem psychotherapeutischen Behandlungsprozess.

Bereits in der Ausbildung zur Psychotherapeutin/zum Psychotherapeuten können die Grundlagen für die Zusammenführung von Praxis und Forschung vermittelt werden indem Leitlinien für die Erstellung von Fallstudien etabliert werden, die den Anforderungen der praxisorientierten Psychotherapieforschung entsprechen. Die Empfehlungen werden hier beispielhaft angeführt.
Metabolic Phenotyping Using UPLC–MS and Rapid Microbore UPLC–IM–MS: Determination of the Effect of Different Dietary Regimes on the Urinary Metabolome of the Rat
Authors: Letertre Marine , Munjoma Nyasha C. , Slade Susan E. , Plumb Robert S. , Swann Jon , Coen Muireann , Nicholson Jeremy K. , Wilson Ian D.
Published: May 2020

A rapid reversed-phase gradient method employing a 50 mm × 1 mm i.d., C18 microbore column, combined with ion mobility and high-resolution mass spectrometry, was applied to the metabolic phenotyping of urine samples obtained from rats receiving different diets. This method was directly compared to a “conventional” method employing a 150 × 2.1 mm i.d. column packed with the same C18 bonded phase using the same samples. Multivariate statistical analysis of the resulting data showed similar class discrimination for both microbore and conventional methods, despite the detection of fewer mass/retention time features by the former. Multivariate statistical analysis highlighted a number of ions that represented diet-specific markers in the samples. Several of these were then identified using the combination of mass, ion-mobility-derived collision cross section and retention time including N-acetylglutamate, urocanic acid, and xanthurenic acid. Kynurenic acid was tentatively identified based on mass and ion mobility data.
A carrot isn’t a carrot isn’t a carrot: tracing value in alternative practices of food exchange
Authors: Kallio Galina
Published: May 2020

Questions of value are central to understanding alternative practices of food exchange. This study introduces a practice-based approach to value that challenges the dominant views, which capture value as either an input for or an outcome of practices of exchange (value as values, standards, or prices). Building on a longitudinal ethnographic study on food collectives, I show how value, rather than residing in something that people share, or in something that objects have, is an ideal target that continuously unfolds and evolves in action. I found that people organized their food collectives around pursuing three kinds ofvalue-ideals,namely good food, good price and good community. These value-ideals became reproduced in food collectives through what I identified asvaluing modes,by which people evaluated the goodness of food, prices and community. My analysis revealed that, while participating in food collectives in order to pursue their value-ideals, people were likely to have differing reasons for pursuing them and tended to attach different meanings to the same value-ideal. I argue that understanding how value as an ideal target is reproduced through assessing and assigning value (valuing modes) is essential in further explorations of the formation of value and in better understanding the dynamics of organizing alternative practices of food exchange.
Intention and barriers to use MOOCs: An investigation among the post graduate students in India
Authors: Mohan M. Mithun , Upadhyaya Pallavi , Pillai K. Rajasekharan
Published: May 2020

Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) have widely been acknowledged as a unified platform to reduce the digital divide and make education accessible to all. It also enables students’ access to professors and educational contents sans spatial and institutional barriers. Despite several benefits, MOOCs’ adoption and completion rate remain unimpressive, especially among developing countries. Using Extended Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT2), we examine the key factors that influence the behavioral intention to use MOOCs among students in an Indian private university. The data from 412 postgraduate students were analyzed using Partial Least Squares-Structured Equation Modelling. The study identifies barriers to use MOOCs, in a university that has offered free MOOCs courses and certifications to the students. The study makes several theoretical contributions and offer adequate insights for higher education institutions to administer and integrate MOOCs in their curriculum.
We are in this Together: Retrospective Parentification, Sibling Relationships, and Self-Esteem
Authors: Borchet Judyta , Lewandowska-Walter Aleksandra , Połomski Piotr , Peplińska Aleksandra , Hooper Lisa M.
Published: May 2020

Parentification occurs when children provide caregiving for family members that typically exceeds their capacity and developmental stage. Parentification roles and responsibilities are often linked with deleterious outcomes, including robbing children of age-appropriate opportunities, activities, and support. However, in some circumstances, such as caring for a sibling vs. caring for a parent, parentification may engender feelings of self-efficacy, competence, and other positive outcomes. The primary objective of the current study was to explore the possible benefits of parentification. Using an understudied, international population, the current study tested the benefits of parentification in the context of the sibling relationship. Two research questions guided the study: to what extent are perceived benefits of parentification positively associated with self-esteem among a sample of Polish late adolescents? And to what extent does the quality of the sibling relationship mediate the association between perceived benefits of parentification and self-esteem? Results from the current sample showed the quality of sibling relationships partially mediated the relation between parentification and self-esteem. The findings underline the importance of assessing the quality of sibling relationships when an individual or family presenting for clinical services related to past and current family discord and dysfunction. Future research might consider other factors in the sibling relationship, such as personality, that could relate to positive outcomes from parentification.
Activity concentration of Fukushima-derived radiocesium in the western subarctic area of the North Pacific Ocean in summer 2017
Authors: Kumamoto Yuichiro , Aoyama Michio , Hamajima Yasunori , Murata Akihiko
Published: May 2020

Vertical profiles of radiocesium (134Cs and 137Cs) were measured in the western subarctic area of the North Pacific in 2017. The highest concentration of 134Cs, which was derived from the accident of the Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant in 2011, was 0.14 Bq m−3 (or 1.19 Bq m−3 after the decay correction to the accident date). Although the vertical inventory of 134Cs decreased between 2014 and 2017, the inventory in 2017 was larger than that expected. That was probably arose from the return of some portion of the high-concentration water mass along with the anticlockwise subarctic gyre current.
From Short-Range to Contact Interactions in the 1d Bose Gas
Authors: Griesemer Marcel , Hofacker Michael , Linden Ulrich
Published: May 2020

For a system of N bosons in one space dimension with two-body δ-interactions the Hamiltonian can be defined in terms of the usual closed semi-bounded quadratic form. We approximate this Hamiltonian in norm resolvent sense by Schrödinger operators with rescaled two-body potentials, and we estimate the rate of this convergence.
A place next to Satoshi: foundations of blockchain and cryptocurrency research in business and economics
Authors: Ante Lennart
Published: May 2020

Blockchain technology has become an ubiquitous phenomenon. While the topic originated in computer science, the business and economics literature was comparatively slow to pick up on it. To better understand the academic basis, current developments and future research avenues of the discourse, 9672 cited references of 467 blockchain and cryptocurrency articles from the fields of business and economics are gathered from the Web of Science Core Collection and are analyzed. Five major strands of research are identified through factor analysis. They are reviewed and their interrelation is mapped using social network analysis. Research on (I) market efficiency and economics and (II) asset pricing and valuation is relatively mature and focuses on cryptocurrencies, while research on (III) the principles and applications of blockchain technology, (IV) transactions and anonymity and (V) monetary theory and policy lacks maturity. Potential paths for future research are pointed out and in conclusion, it is assessed that this young field of research still leaves plenty of room for manoeuvre. A scientific place next to Nakamoto (2008) is still available for existing, emerging and new research streams.
Roadmap to an adaptive assembly line for e-axles
Authors: Abdul Hadi Muaaz , Brillinger Markus , Haas Franz , Weinzerl Martin
Published: May 2020

Achieving high quality, high variety batch size production can be quite expensive. In this vision paper, the methodology of achieving this at low costs and the available technologies in the field of e-mobility production are described. The focus of this research lies in high adaptive and cognitive aspects in the assembly along with qualitative aspects. To match the high flexibility of a flexible manufacturing system while considering quantitative efforts, a use case of an e-axle assembly is being done. E-axle is chosen due to the ongoing electrification of mobility. Hence, a solution for implementing a set of methodologies for an adaptive manufacturing system with respect to assembly, quality and implementation efforts is shown. A Level of Practical Application matrix is presented of all the possible adaptive technologies that are feasible to implement in the e-assembly line.
Rate and Determinants of Excessive Fat-Free Mass Loss After Bariatric Surgery
Authors: Nuijten Malou A. H. , Monpellier Valerie M. , Eijsvogels Thijs M. H. , Janssen Ignace M. C. , Hazebroek Eric J. , Hopman Maria T. E.
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Fat-free mass (FFM) loss is a concerning aspect of bariatric surgery, but little is known about its time-course and factors related with excessive FFM loss. This study examined (i) the progress of FFM loss up to 3 years post-bariatric surgery and (ii) the prevalence and determinants of excessive FFM loss.

Materials and Methods

A total of 3596 patients (20% males, 43.5 ± 11.1 years old, BMI = 44.2 ± 5.5 kg/m2) underwent sleeve gastrectomy (SG) or Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery. Bioelectrical impedance analysis was performed preoperatively and 3, 6, 9, 12, 18, 24 and 36 months post-surgery. Changes in body composition were assessed by mixed model analysis. Prevalence of excessive FFM loss (based on three different cutoff values: ≥ 25%, ≥ 30% and ≥ 35% FFM loss/weight loss (= %FFML/WL)) was estimated and its determinants were assessed by linear regression analysis.

Results

Highest rates of FFM loss were found at 3 and 6 months post-surgery, reflecting 57% and 73% of peak FFM loss, respectively. Prevalence of excessive FFM loss ranged from 14 to 46% at 36 months post-surgery, with an older age (β = 0.14, 95%CI = 0.10–0.18, P < .001), being male (β = 3.99, 95%CI = 2.86–5.12, P < .001), higher BMI (β = 0.13, 95%CI = 0.05–0.20, P = .002) and SG (β = 2.56, 95%CI = 1.36–3.76, P < .001) as determinants for a greater %FFML/WL.

Conclusion

Patients lost most FFM within 3 to 6 months post-surgery. Prevalence of excessive FFM loss was high, emphasizing the need for more vigorous approaches to counteract FFM loss. Furthermore, future studies should assess habitual physical activity and dietary intake shortly after surgery in relation to FFM loss.
Locally enhanced electric field treatment (LEEFT) for water disinfection
Authors: Zhou Jianfeng , Wang Ting , Yu Cecilia , Xie Xing
Published: May 2020

Water disinfection is a critical step in water and wastewater treatment. The most widely used chlorination suffers from the formation of carcinogenic disinfection by-products (DBPs) while alternative methods (e.g., UV, O3, and membrane filtration) are limited by microbial regrowth, no residual disinfectant, and high operation cost. Here, a nanowire-enabled disinfection method, locally enhanced electric field treatment (LEEFT), is introduced with advantages of no chemical addition, no DBP formation, low energy consumption, and efficient microbial inactivation. Attributed to the lightning rod effect, the electric field near the tip area of the nanowires on the electrode is significantly enhanced to inactivate microbes, even though a small external voltage (usually < 5 V) is applied. In this review, after emphasizing the significance of water disinfection, the theory of the LEEFT is explained. Subsequently, the recent development of the LEEFT technology on electrode materials and device configurations are summarized. The disinfection performance is analyzed, with respect to the operating parameters, universality against different microorganisms, electrode durability, and energy consumption. The studies on the inactivation mechanisms during the LEEFT are also reviewed. Lastly, the challenges and future research of LEEFT disinfection are discussed.
The Uncertainty of the Surgical Margin in the Treatment of Low Grade Fibromyxoid Sarcoma: a Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Patrycja Sosnowska , Turowska Agnieszka , Piotr Nogal , Przemysław Mańkowski
Published: May 2020

Low grade fibromyxoid sarcoma (LGFMS) is a rare soft tissue tumor appearing mainly in young adults. Despite its bland histological features, the tumor has a tendency toward late local recurrence and distant metastases even up to 45 years after the diagnosis. The treatment of choice in this type of neoplasm is a radical surgical excision with clear resection margins. We decided to present a case report of a 17-year-old patient with LGFMS of the right hip. Surgical resection of the tumor was performed, but in the histopathological examination was described the minimal resection margin (0.3 mm). The multi-specialist team composed of oncologist, radiologist, and pediatric surgeon based on the literature decided to widen the resection margin despite its obtainment during the primary operation. The scar after the first surgery and surrounding soft tissues with the bigger margin were resected. No evidence of cancerous infiltration was found in the second histopathological material. Patient has stayed under the routine control of pediatric surgeon, pediatric oncologist, and has not presented recurrence for 3 years. In conclusion, when the resection margin is uncertain after the primary surgery, the increase of the range of operation allows the prevention of the late recurrence of the disease.
Ediacaran Discs from the Bhima Group, Karnataka, South India
Authors: Shukla Yogmaya , Sharma Mukund
Published: May 2020

Discs/discoidal body fossils, an important constituent of Ediacaran biota, are reported from the sandstone unit of the Hotpet Formation of the Bhima Group, South India. Nine specimens preserved as circular to ovate structures are described and attributed to Ediacaran discs and are akin to Fermeuse-style preservation of Ediacaran fossils. These discs, occur as impressions on the bedding planes, are referred as Charniodiscus-like fossils. This is the first report of Ediacaran discs from the Bhima Group, south India.
Assessment of Aquifer Vulnerability Using GALDIT Model – A Case Study
Authors: Sujitha Vidya , Purandara B. K. , Shivapur Anand V. , Davithuraj J.
Published: May 2020

With the increasing urbanization, agriculture, industrial activities along the coastal stretches of India, more and more people depend on ground water due to which there are cases of large scale decline in both quantity and quality. One of the State which is facing a critical change in its geomorphology and land use/land cover is Goa which is known for its tourism industry. Therefore, the water management will be a major issue in the years to come. A field survey conducted in parts of north Goa coast to understand the ground water availability status, quality issues and salinity conditions of ground water due to sea water intrusion. Accordingly, an attempt was made to understand the extent of seawater mixing with ground water using a model known as GALDIT Model. GALDIT is an indicator based model which assess and quantifies the significance of vulnerability to seawater intrusion due to excessive groundwater withdrawals. The system contains three significant parts: weights, ranges, and ratings. Each GALDIT factor has been evaluated with respect to the other to determine the relative importance of each factor. Accordingly indices were calculated for the selected wells (wells were selected along the coast and also perpendicular to the coast). Results obtained by GALDIT model showed that about 42% of the wells in the study area are low vulnerable and 58% of the wells are moderately vulnerable to sea water intrusion.
Kinetics and mechanisms of congo-red dye removal from aqueous solution using activated Moringa oleifera seed coat as adsorbent
Authors: Jabar Jamiu M. , Odusote Yisau A. , Alabi Kazeem A. , Ahmed Ibrahim B.
Published: May 2020

Moringa oleifera (MO) seed coat, a postharvest waste of MO seed, was mercerized and used as eco-friendly adsorbent for removal of Congo red (CR) dye from aqueous solution at different time and temperature. Mercerized M. oleifera seed coat (MSC) was characterized through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) before and after adsorption process. Data obtained from effect of contact time on CR dye-uptake were applied on Elovich, pseudo-first- and second-order kinetic models, as well as on intraparticle diffusion and Boyd models. SEM and FTIR showed adsorption of CR dye on MSC through filled holes (SEM), appearance of new and shifting existing of functional groups (FTIR) on the surface of MSC after adsorption process. Adsorption kinetics was seen to be best fitted with pseudo-second-order model with the highest value of correlation coefficient at all temperatures. Film diffusion mechanism controlled the adsorption process, where external mass transfer was higher than internal mass transfer. Adsorption kinetics parameters confirmed removal of CR dye from aqueous solution through chemical and physical adsorption on MSC.
How Do Technological Artefacts Embody Moral Values?
Authors: Klenk Michael
Published: May 2020

According to some philosophers of technology, technology embodies moral values in virtue of its functional properties and the intentions of its designers. But this paper shows that such an account makes the values supposedly embedded in technology epistemically opaque and that it does not allow for values to change. Therefore, to overcome these shortcomings, the paper introduces the novel Affordance Account of Value Embedding as a superior alternative. Accordingly, artefacts bear affordances, that is, artefacts make certain actions likelier given the circumstances. Based on an interdisciplinary perspective that invokes recent moral anthropology, I conceptualize affordances as response-dependent properties. That is, they depend on intrinsic as well as extrinsic properties of the artefact. We have reason to value these properties. Therefore, artefacts embody values and are not value-neutral, which has practical implications for the design of new technologies.