bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FID-Lizenzen sichtbar und suchbar machen: Der Zentrale Nachweis für FID-Lizenzen – Konzept, Umsetzung und Datenmanagement
Authors: Glaab-Kühn Friederike , Kittelmann Maike
Published: September 2018

Mit der wachsenden Zahl an zugänglichen FID-Lizenzen wurde es immer wichtiger, die FID-Lizenzen zentral nachzuweisen. Zu diesem Zweck hat das Kompetenzzentrum für Lizenzierung elektronischer Ressourcen im DFG-geförderten System der „Fachinformationsdienste für die Wissenschaft“ einen Zentralen Nachweis mit Informationen zu allen verfügbaren FID-Lizenzen aufgebaut. Der Artikel präsentiert die damit verbundenen konzeptionellen Überlegungen sowie die Festlegungen zur Umsetzung. Anhand von Workflows, Dokumentation und Qualitätsmanagement wird veranschaulicht, wie das Datenmanagement für den Zentralen Nachweis umgesetzt wurde.
Robust physiological control of rotary blood pumps for heart failure therapy
Authors: Rüschen Daniel , Opitz Sebastian , von Platen Philip , Korn Leonie , Leonhardt Steffen , Walter Marian
Published: September 2018

Left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) have become a viable alternative to heart transplantation in heart failure therapy. In clinical practice, rotary blood pumps used as LVADs are operated at a constant rotational speed and thus do not adapt to the varying demand of the patient. This paper presents a robust control approach for automatic adaptation of the blood pump speed to the blood flow demand of the patient’s body, which enables a defined load sharing between an LVAD and the native ventricle. Robust stability was checked using a detailed model of the human cardiovascular system with uncertainties that describe the most important native physiological control loops as well as a range of pathologies. The robust assistance controller was tested in an in vivo setup and was able to stabilize the cardiovascular system after myocardial infarction.
Free Vibration Analysis of Single Walled Carbon Nanotube with Exponentially Varying Stiffness
Authors: Jena Subrat Kumar , Chakraverty S.
Published: September 2018

In this paper, Differential Quadrature Method (DQM) is applied to investigate free vibration of Single Walled Carbon Nanotubes (SWCNTs) with exponentially varying stiffness based on non-local Euler-Bernoulli beam theory. Application of DQ method in the governing differential equation converts the problem to a generalized eigenvalue problem and its solution gives frequency parameters. Convergence of the results show that DQM solutions converge fast. In this article, a detailed investigation has been reported and MATLAB code has been developed to analyze the numerical results for different scaling parameters as well as for four types of boundary conditions. Present results are compared with other available results and are found to be in good agreement.
Archaeological Knowledge Production and Global Communities: Boundaries and Structure of the Field
Authors: Laužikas Rimvydas , Dallas Costis , Thomas Suzie , Kelpšienė Ingrida , Huvila Isto , Luengo Pedro , Nobre Helena , Toumpouri Marina , Vaitkevičius Vykintas
Published: September 2018

Archaeology and material cultural heritage enjoys a particular status as a form of heritage that, capturing the public imagination, has become the locus for the expression and negotiation of regional, national, and intra-national cultural identities. One important question is: why and how do contemporary people engage with archaeological heritage objects, artefacts, information or knowledge outside the realm of an professional, academically-based archaeology? This question is investigated here from the perspective of theoretical considerations based on Yuri Lotman’s semiosphere theory, which helps to describe the connections between the centre and peripheries of professional archaeology as sign structures. The centre may be defined according to prevalent scientific paradigms, while periphery in the space of creolisation in which, through interactions with other culturally more distant sign structures, archaeology-related nonprofessional communities emerge. On the basis of these considerations, we use collocation analysis on representative English language corpora to outline the structure of the field of archaeology-related nonprofessional communities, identify salient creolised peripheral spaces and archaeology-related practices, and develop a framework for further investigation of archaeological knowledge production and reuse in the context of global archaeology.
Inter-Personal and Inter-Organizational Networks In Internationalization of SMEs: A Bibliometric Analysis and Review
Authors: Bužavaitė Monika , Korsakienė Renata
Published: September 2018

Small firms contribute to the economy by creating new vacancies and are the most common business form in the EU. However, small firms are not tended to expand internationally and only a limited number of small firms export to the countries outside the EU. The study aims to investigate inter-personal and inter-organizational networks in the international expansion of small firms. The investigation is grounded in analysis and synthesis of scientific literature. In addition, the bibliometric analysis was integrated into the scientific research. Bibliometric analysis of the papers published in 2000-2017 and obtained from Clari-vate Analytics database revealed that the significance of networking in international activities of small firms are not explored sufficiently while networking and internationalization of SMEs separately are a much more popular topic among researchers. The research results let us present insights for future investigations and implications for managers and policymakers.
Recent advances in the self-assembly of polynuclear metal–selenium and –tellurium compounds from 14–16 reagents
Authors: Polgar Alexander M. , Corrigan John F.
Published: September 2018

The use of reagents containing bonds between group 14 elements and Se or Te for the self-assembly of polynuclear metal–chalcogen compounds is covered. Background material is briefly reviewed and examples from the literature are highlighted from the period 2007–2017. Emphasis is placed on the different classes of 14–16 precursors and their application in the targeted synthesis of metal–chalcogen compounds. The unique properties arising from the combination of specific 14–16 precursors, metal atoms, and ancillary ligands are also described. Selected examples are chosen to underline the progress in (i) controlled synthesis of heterometallic (ternary) chalcogen clusters, (ii) chalcogen clusters with organic functionalized surfaces, and (iii) crystalline open-framework metal chalcogenides.
Idiopathic chylothorax in geriatrics: the oldest case report so far
Authors: Öngen İpek Belkız , Akduman Alaşehir Elçin , Sitar Mustafa Erinç , Levent Ender , Orki Alpay
Published: September 2018

Chylothorax is a rare condition characterized by accumulation of chylous fluid in the pleural space resulting in impaired ductus thoracic integrity. It can be an outcome of a traumatic process, although there are a few non-traumatic and/or idiopathic cases in current literature. In this article, we present the oldest case report so for, who is an 87-year-old woman complaining of acute respiratory distress symptoms with pleural effusion having no trauma history. The patient was analyzed for the disease etiology strenuously. Thoracentesis was performed together with imaging modalities and detailed systemic laboratory tests. Non-surgical treatment was successful as the outcome.
Platoon Control Algorithm Evaluation: Metrics, Configurations, Perturbations, and Scenarios
Authors: Gechter Franck , Koukam Abderrafiaa , Debain Christophe , Daﬄon Baudouin , El-Zaher Madeleine , Aufrère Romuald , Chapuis Roland , Derutin Jean-Pierre
Published: September 2018

Vehicles are being equipped with more and more smart devices, which help the driver in his tasks. Alongside the trend to more and more autonomous vehicles emerges the possibility of making vehicles that move together as a platoon, which can be defined as a spatio-temporal organization of a set of vehicles based on a specific predetermined geometrical configuration. Basically, there are two main approaches for performing platoon control and these depend on the reference frame used (local or global). Even if the literature about platoon control is abundant, the most commonly used metrics are only tied to the stability of the platoon, that is, to the lateral and longitudinal distances between vehicles. However, these metrics are sufficient enough for a first evaluation of one algorithm; a deeper evaluation of a platoon control solution requires more well-defined metrics and perturbations that allow for the testing of algorithms with various parametrized conditions. The goal of this article is to present definitions of metrics, perturbations, spatial configurations, and scenarios that are aimed at helping scientists in the field to determine strong and precise evaluations of their platoon control algorithms. The work presented in this article stems directly from thinking performed during the institutional projects in which the authors have been involved and also takes inspiration from numerous articles on the subject and experiments made both in simulation and with real vehicles.
Effect of Reinforcement on Compacting Characteristics of Aluminum/10-Al2O3/Fly Ash Metal Matrix Composite
Authors: Reddy Seelam Pichi , Chandrasekhara Rao P. V. , Kolli Murahari
Published: September 2018

Aluminum metal matrix composites are attractive and effective materials because of their unique properties. These properties include high specific strength, light weight, high specific stiffness, excellent wear resistance, good corrosion resistance, and greater elastic modulus compared with the base alloy. They are used in aerospace, automotive, marine, mining, and mechanical structures. Fly ash, an inexpensive waste by-product obtained after the combustion of coal in thermal power plants, is considered as a reinforcement particle in the present study. The aim is to investigate the effect of fly ash in Al-10 weight percentage (wt%) aluminum oxide (Al2O3) metal matrix composites using statistical optimization techniques. One factor and Taguchi approaches are used in planning and designing the experiments. Al/10 wt% Al2O3 with 0, 5, 10, and 15 wt% fly ash composites are prepared with the powder metallurgy technique at 300, 400, and 500 MPa compaction pressure with 90, 120, and 150-μm fly ash particle sizes. The wt% of fly ash, compaction pressure, and particle size are the process parameters. Performance parameters such as ejection force and green density, hardness, and compressive strength are considered. The ejection force and green density decreased with the increase in the weight percent of fly ash. Hardness increased with the increase in fly ash content. Compressive strength increased with the increase in fly ash up to 5 wt% and subsequently decreased.
The Influence of Science Comic Based Character Education on Understanding the Concept and Students’ Environmental Caring Attitude on Global Warming Material
Authors: Munawwaroh Eka Lailatul , Priyono Bambang , Ningsih Margareta Rahayu
Published: September 2018

The objective of the study was to determine the effect of the science comic based character education on understanding the concept and students’ environmental caring attitude to the material of global warming. Type research true experimental design with posttest-only control design. The research population was the students of class VII of SMP Negeri 1 Mungkid. The sample was taken by purposive sampling technique consist of class VII H a control class and class VII G an experiment class. The result of the research showed that the study of the students of Class VII of SMP Negeri 1 Mungkid on global warming material reaches completeness equal to 71.42%. The attitude of environmental care of students of Class VII of SMP Negeri 1 Mungkid after using science comic media on global warming material is in the category of very care and care. The implementation of science learning of global warming material of students of Class VII of SMP Negeri 1 Mungkid is done well by 95%. This is supported by the responses of teachers and students who respond well to learning using the science-based science comic media character applied to global warming materials. Based on the results of the study concluded that learning using science comic media based on character education applied to global warming material positively influence the understanding of concept and attitude of environment care of students SMP Negeri 1 Mungkid.
‘Quality in, quality out’, a stepwise approach to evidence-based medicine for rare diseases promoted by multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1
Authors: van Beek Dirk-Jan , van Leeuwaarde Rachel S , Pieterman Carolina R C , Vriens Menno R , Valk Gerlof D , _ _ , _ _ , P H Bisschop , I H M Borel Rinkes , O M Dekkers , M L Drent , B Havekes , W W de Herder , A R M M Hermus , A N A van der Horst-Schrivers , J de Jong , H F A Vasen , B A Zonnenberg
Published: September 2018

Rare diseases pose specific challenges in the field of medical research to provide physicians with evidence-based guidelines derived from studies with sufficient quality. An example of these rare diseases is multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1), which is an autosomal dominant endocrine tumor syndrome with an estimated occurrence rate of 2–3 per 100,000. For this complex disease, characterized by multiple endocrine tumors, it proves difficult to perform both adequate and feasible studies. The opinion of patients themselves is of utmost importance to identify the gaps in the evidence-based medicine regarding clinical care. In the search for scientific answers to clinical research questions, the aim for best available evidence is obvious. Observational studies within patient cohorts, although prone to bias, seem the most feasible study design regarding the disease prevalence. Knowledge and adaptation to all types of bias is demanded in the strive for answers. Guided by our research on MEN1 patients, we elaborate on strategies to identify sufficient patients, to maximize and maintain patient enrolment and to standardize the data collection process. Preferably, data collection is performed prospectively, however, under certain conditions, data storage in a longitudinal retrospective database with a disease-specific framework is suitable. Considering the global challenges on observational research on rare diseases, we propose a stepwise approach from clinical research questions to scientific answers.
Novel therapies in osteoporosis: PTH-related peptide analogs and inhibitors of sclerostin
Authors: Rachner Tilman D , Hofbauer Lorenz C , Göbel Andy , Tsourdi Elena
Published: September 2018

Bone-forming approaches to treat patients with severe osteoporosis are effective, but treatment options are limited, and there is an unmet clinical need for additional drugs. This review discusses two novel and advanced anabolic therapeutic concepts that have successfully completed phase 3 trials. Romosozumab is a monoclonal antibody that targets the Wnt inhibitor sclerostin. Two phase 3 trials (FRAME and ARCH) of romosozumab for the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis have been completed. Both trials successfully reached their primary endpoint by reducing vertebral fractures by 75% compared to placebo (FRAME trial) and 48% compared to alendronate (ARCH trial), respectively. Abaloparatide is a PTH-related protein (PTHrP) analog that has displayed bone anabolic activity. In the phase 3 ACTIVE trial, abaloparatide was compared to placebo and teriparatide for 18 months in postmenopausal women who had already experienced an osteoporotic fracture. Abaloparatide successfully reduced the rate of new vertebral fractures by 86% compared to placebo. Furthermore, abaloparatide achieved greater BMD increases at all measured sites compared to both placebo and teriparatide. Based on these results, abaloparatide was FDA approved in April 2017. This review discusses available data of both agents with regard to efficacy and safety as well as their possible future application.
A functional role for AMPK in female fertility and endometrial regeneration
Authors: McCallum Melissa L , Pru Cindy A , Smith Andrea R , Kelp Nicole C , Foretz Marc , Viollet Benoit , Du Min , Pru James K
Published: September 2018

Adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a highly conserved heterotrimeric complex that acts as an intracellular energy sensor. Based on recent observations of AMPK expression in all structures of the female reproductive system, we hypothesized that AMPK is functionally required for maintaining fertility in the female. This hypothesis was tested by conditionally ablating the two catalytic alpha subunits of AMPK, Prkaa1 and Prkaa2, using Pgr-cre mice. After confirming the presence of PRKAA1, PRKAA2 and the active phospho-PRKAA1/2 in the gravid uterus by immunohistochemistry, control (Prkaa1/2
fl/fl
) and double conditional knockout mice (Prkaa1/2
d/d
) were placed into a six-month breeding trial. While the first litter size was comparable between Prkaa1/2
fl/fl
and Prkaa1/2
d/d
female mice (P = 0.8619), the size of all subsequent litters was dramatically reduced in Prkaa1/2
d/d
female mice (P = 0.0015). All Prkaa1/2
d/d
female mice experienced premature reproductive senescence or dystocia by the fourth parity. This phenotype manifested despite no difference in estrous cycle length, ovarian histology in young and old nulliparous or multiparous animals, mid-gestation serum progesterone levels or uterine expression of Esr1 or Pgr between Prkaa1/2
fl/fl
and Prkaa1/2
d/d
female mice suggesting that the hypothalamic–pituitary–ovary axis remained unaffected by PRKAA1/2 deficiency. However, an evaluation of uterine histology from multiparous animals identified extensive endometrial fibrosis and disorganized stromal-glandular architecture indicative of endometritis, a condition that causes subfertility or infertility in most mammals. Interestingly, Prkaa1/2
d/d
female mice failed to undergo artificial decidualization. Collectively, these findings suggest that AMPK plays an essential role in endometrial regeneration following parturition and tissue remodeling that accompanies decidualization.
Clinical outcomes and quality of life in patients with Stanford type B aortic dissection after endovascular repair
Authors: Bi Yonghua , Chen Hongmei , Yu Zepeng , Ren Jianzhuang , Han Xinwei
Published: September 2018

Background: Aortic dissection is a severe and life-threatening disease that is usually linked with numerous possible complications. Stanford type B aortic dissection patients often choose endovascular repair due to its mini-invasiveness and quick recovery. This study concerns with medial-term outcome and quality of life (QoL) in patients with Stanford type B aortic dissection after endovascular repair.Methods: From January 2014 until July 2016, 40 patients with Stanford type B aortic dissection received an endovascular repair. Of the total number of patients, 35 were males (87.5%) and 5 females (12.5%), mean aged 80.9±14.1 years. The Medical Outcomes Study-Short Form-36 (MOS SF-36) was used to assess the QoL preoperatively and after endovascular repair. The first follow-up (FU) of SF-36 questionnaire (FU1) was obtained within 3.9±0.3 months after repair, and the second (FU2), 25.6±6.5 months thereafter.Results: None of patient died during the observational period, and one patient lost to FU. SF-36 observation showed the best-scoring domain was ‘Role emotion’, ‘Vitality’ and ‘Mental health’ were also scored well preoperatively. Except for ‘Role emotion’ and ‘Mental health’, all remained domains were significantly improved both FU1 and FU2.Conclusions: Endovascular repair in patients with Stanford type B aortic dissection enables excellent clinical outcomes and QoL.
Predictors of Outcome in Cognitive and Behavioural Interventions for Irritable Bowel Syndrome. A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Radu Mădălina , Moldovan Ramona , Pintea Sebastian , Băban Adriana , Dumitrașcu Dan
Published: September 2018

Background & Aims: Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) has small to medium effects in alleviating emotional distress and psychosomatic symptoms in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). However, the mechanism through which CBT exerts its effects is less studied. Mediation analysis examines the extent to which intermediate variables explain the effect of the intervention on outcomes. The meta-analysis aims to identify and assess the impact of CBT mediators identified in previous research on IBS.

Methods: An extensive search of studies investigating the effects of CBT for IBS published before January 2018 was conducted. A total of 699 studies were identified through database search and 6 studies including data from 638 patients were analysed. The selected studies had to clearly define the CBT intervention, include IBS patients, report sufficient data to allow calculation of effect sizes and provide a clear mediation analysis of one or several variables on the outcome.

Results: The total effect of CBT was significant for both categories of outcomes (i.e. IBS symptom severity and psychosocial distress), with a low-to-moderate effect on psychosocial distress (r=0.222) and a medium-to-large effect on IBS symptom severity (r=0.413). In fact, the total effect of CBT on IBS symptom severity is significantly higher than the total effect on psychosocial distress Q(1)= 5.06, p= 0.024. Both behaviours and emotions (r=0.158) as well as cognitions (r=0.141) generated significant mediated effects on psychosocial distress, with no significant differences between them (Q(1)= 0.05, p=0.825). Behaviours and emotions mediated 71.1% of the total effect of CBT on psychosocial distress and cognitions mediated 63.5% of the total effect.

Conclusion: Although significant for both outcomes, the statistical analysis revealed CBT interventions have a greater effect on alleviating IBS symptoms severity rather than on reducing psychological distress. Of the mediators investigated, behaviours, emotions and cognitions seem to have a small to moderating effect in reducing IBS symptom and psychological distress.
Fecal Calprotectin in Assessing Inflammatory Bowel Disease Endoscopic Activity: a Diagnostic Accuracy Meta-analysis
Authors: Rokkas Theodore , Portincasa Piero , Koutroubakis Ioannis E
Published: September 2018

Background & Aim: Fecal calprotectin (FC) has been suggested as a sensitive biomarker of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, its usefulness in assessing IBD activity needs to be more precisely defined. In this meta-analysis we aimed to determine the diagnostic performance of FC in assessing IBD endoscopic activity in adults.

Methods: We searched the databases Pubmed/Medline and EMBASE, and studies which examined IBD endoscopic activity in association to FC were identified. From each study pooled data and consequently pooled sensitivity, specificity, likelihood ratios (LR), diagnostic odds ratios (DORs) and areas under the curve (AUCs) were calculated, using suitable meta-analysis software. We analyzed extracted data using fixed or random effects models, as appropriate, depending on the presence of significant heterogeneity.

Results: We included 49 sets of data from 25 eligible for meta-analysis studies, with 298 controls and 2,822 IBD patients. Fecal calprotectin in IBD (Crohn’s disease, CD and ulcerative colitis, UC) showed a pooled sensitivity of 85%, specificity of 75%, DOR of 16.3 and AUC of 0.88, in diagnosing active disease. The sub-group analysis revealed that FC performed better in UC than in CD (pooled sensitivity 87.3% vs 82.4%, specificity 77.1% vs 72.1% and AUC 0.91 vs 0.84). Examining the optimum FC cut-off levels, the best sensitivity (90.6%) was achieved at 50 μg/g, whereas the best specificity (78.2%) was found at levels >100 μg/g.

Conclusions: This meta-analysis showed that in adults, FC is a reliable laboratory test for assessing endoscopic activity in IBD. Its performance is better in UC than CD.
A Differential Host Response to Viral Infection Defines a Subset of Earlier-Onset Diverticulitis Patients
Authors: Schieffer Kathleen M , Kline Bryan P , Harris Leonard R , Deiling Sue , Koltun Walter A , Youchum Gregory S
Published: September 2018

Background & Aims: Diverticulitis is the chronic inflammation of diverticula. Whether the pathophysiology of earlier-onset patients differs from later-onset patients is unknown. We profiled the colonic transcriptomes of these two patient populations to gain insight into the molecular underpinnings of diverticulitis.

Methods: We conducted deep RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) on colonic segments surgically resected from earlier-onset (<42 years old, n=13) and later-onset (>65 years old, n=13) diverticulitis patients. We used bioinformatic approaches to cluster the patients based on the relationship of differentially expressed genes and to inform on the molecular pathways that segregated the clusters.

Results: Principal component analysis identified three patient clusters; diverticulitis later-onset (DVT-LO), diverticulitis mixed-onset (DVT-MO), and diverticulitis earlier-onset (DVT-EO). The patients comprising DVT-EO, which was the majority of earlier-onset patients, displayed increased expression of anti-viral response genes. This finding was confirmed using an independent weighted co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) of differentially expressed genes.

Conclusions: We found that the majority of patients with earlier-onset disease contained elevated expression of host genes involved in the anti-viral response. Thus, susceptibility to a viral pathogen may offer one explanation why some individuals develop diverticulitis at an earlier age.
Common and Uncommon CTO complications
Authors: Rigger Johannes ,   Cardiology Department, Belfast Health & Social Care Trust, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK,   Kantonsspital, St Gallen, Switzerland, Hanratty Colm G. ,   Cardiology Department, Belfast Health & Social Care Trust, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK, Walsh Simon J ,   Cardiology Department, Belfast Health & Social Care Trust, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK
Published: September 2018

Despite the ongoing development of technical skills, increasing operator experience and improvements in medical devices, percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) for chronic total occlusions (CTO) are still the most challenging procedures in interventional cardiology for coronary artery disease. Due to the complexity of the procedury have a higher complication rate than PCI interventions for the treatment of non-occlusive disease. This may significantly increase procedural morbidity and potentially mortality. CTO-PCI related complications include all the usual complications that are seen in routine PCI in addition to unique issues such as inadvertent occlusion of donor vessels or injury of collateral channels causing haemodynamic instability or ischaemia. To minimise the morbidity associated with these procedures, it is important to be aware of potential complications and recognise them in a timely fashion. Should they arise, operators should be able to deal with them in a safe and efficient manner.
Culprit Vessel Only Versus Complete Revascularisation in Patients with ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction – Should we Stay or Stage?
Authors: Hasun Matthias ,   2nd Medical Department with Cardiology and Intensive Care Medicine, KA Rudolfstiftung, Vienna, Austria, Weidinger Franz ,   2nd Medical Department with Cardiology and Intensive Care Medicine, KA Rudolfstiftung, Vienna, Austria
Published: September 2018

Multivessel coronary artery disease (MVCAD) is common in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), thereby negatively affecting mortality and outcome. Currently there is increasing evidence that complete revascularisation should be considered in haemodynamically stable patients. There are few larger randomised controlled trials available showing a lower risk of major adverse cardiac events after complete revascularisation, mainly driven by a reduction of repeat revascularisation. However, these trials are not adequately powered to show a mortality benefit or reduced risk of myocardial infarction. As there are several possible strategies, the presence of MVCAD often poses a therapeutic dilemma for interventional cardiologists and there is still ongoing debate on when and how to perform complete revascularisation. Pending further trials that may clarify which strategy is best, an individualised approach should be adopted.
‘Primary’ Microvascular Angina: Clinical Characteristics, Pathogenesis and Management
Authors: Antonio Lanza Gaetano ,   Institute of Cardiology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Fondazione Policlinico A. Gemelli, Rome, Italy, Vita Antonio De ,   Institute of Cardiology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Fondazione Policlinico A. Gemelli, Rome, Italy, Kaski Juan-Carlos ,   Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George’s, University of London, London, UK
Published: September 2018

Microvascular angina (MVA), i.e. angina caused by abnormalities of the coronary microcirculation, is increasingly recognised in clinical practice. The pathogenetic mechanisms of MVA are heterogeneous and may involve both structural and functional alterations of coronary microcirculation, and functional abnormalities may variably involve an impairment of coronary microvascular dilatation and an increased microvascular constrictor activity. Both invasive and non-invasive diagnostic tools exist to identify patients with MVA in clinical practice. Prognosis has been reported to be good in primary MVA patients, although the prognostic implications of coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMVD) in more heterogeneous populations of angina patients need further assessment. Management of primary MVA can be challenging, but pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments exist that allow satisfactory control of symptoms in most patients
Delayed Coronary Occlusion After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation: Implications for New Transcatheter Heart Valve Design and Patient Management
Authors: Jabbour Richard J ,   Imperial College London, United Kingdom, Tanaka Akihito ,   EMO-GVM Centro Cuore Columbus, Milan, Italy,   San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy, Colombo Antonio ,   EMO-GVM Centro Cuore Columbus, Milan, Italy,   San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy, Latib Azeem ,   EMO-GVM Centro Cuore Columbus, Milan, Italy,   San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy,   University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
Published: September 2018

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation has revolutionised the treatment of patients with severe aortic stenosis and is the preferred treatment option for patients with elevated surgical risk. Outcomes have continually improved, but because of the nature of the procedure infrequent catastrophic complications, such as coronary obstruction, persist. Recently, data were published regarding delayed coronary obstruction (DCO), a phenomenon in which the obstruction occurs after the index procedure. DCO has important consequences for future research. In this article we will explore the implications for new transcatheter heart valve design and approaches to patient management to minimise the risk of DCO occurring.
THE INFLUENCE OF ZrO2/SILANE PRE-TREATMENT ON CORROSION RESISTANCE OF POWDER COATING
Authors: Chi Nguyen Van , San Pham Trung , Hang To Thi Xuan
Published: September 2018

Carbon steel was treated by immersion in silane doped hexafluorozirconic acid solution. Treated surface was characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and electrochemical methods. The effect of ZrO2/silane pretreatment on the protective properties of powder coating was studied by adhesion measurement and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The obtained results showed that the morphology and electrochemical characteristics of ZrO2/silane film depend on solution pH. Surface morphology was uniform and compact at solution pH = 4. The best corrosion performance obtained with the film formed in solution with pH and immersion time of 4 and 4 mins, respectively. The ZrO2/silane pretreatment significantly improved adhesion and corrosion resistance of powder coating on carbon steel.
Evaluation of the anticorrosion of waterborne epoxy coatings containing cerium salt-activated ceria nanoparticles deposited onto carbon steel substrates
Authors: Nguyen Anh Son , Nguyen Thuy Duong , Thai Thu Thuy
Published: September 2018

The presence work investigates the corrosion protection of waterborne epoxy coatings containing CeO2 nanoparticles activated with cerium salt for the carbon steel substrates. First, the dispersion of activated nanoparticles in the epoxy matrix was observed by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) was carried out to evaluate the role of the activated-CeO2 nanoparticles in the organic coatings immersed in a 0.5 M NaCl solution. Thus, the effect of the cerium ion activated ceria nanoparticles on the coatings presented the artificial defect in the aggressive environment was examined via salt spray test. Complementary studies were performed using the cross-cut and pull-off test to assess the adherence properties of the samples. Results revealed that the presence of activated-CeO2 nanoparticles enhanced corrosion protection properties of waterborne epoxy coating without losing adherence properties.
A STUDY ON EROSION AND CORROSION BEHAVIOR OF Cr3C2-NiCr CERMET COATINGS
Authors: Ha Pham Thi , Tuan Nguyen Van , Quy Le Thu , Anh Nguyen Tuan , Ly Pham Thi , Cuong Ly Quoc , Thuy Dao Bich
Published: September 2018

In this study, Cr3C2-25NiCr cermet coating samples were prepared by atmospheric plasma spraying (APS) technique on 410 stainless steel substrate with different plasma spraying parameters, namely, the plasma current (500 and 600 A), and the powder feed rate (10 and 30 g/min). The erosion-corrosion behaviour of the coatings was studied by electrochemical measurements, salt spray and erosion-corrosion tests. The electrochemical tests were performed in 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution. During the erosion-corrosion test, the samples were immersed in 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution containing 0.25 wt.% SiO2 particles with a rotational speed of 950 rpm for 72 hours. The obtained results showed that the plasma sprayed coating sample at the plasma current of 600 A and the powder feed rate of 10 g/min has a best erosion-corrosion resistance. Red rust spots did not appear on surface of this coating after 120 hours of salt spray test. It was much slower than on the others (after only 24 hours salt spray test). The weight loss of this coating during the erosion-corrosion test was lower than the remaining samples. These results are consistent with the results of electrochemical tests.
SYNTHESIS GLYCEROL CARBONATE FROM GLYCEROL AND URE USED SOLID ACID-BASE CATALYSTS BASED ON Zn-Al
Authors: Phuong Phan Que
Published: September 2018

In this study, we successfully synthesized Zn/Sn and Al/Sn catalysts by the combination of co-precipitation and hydrothermal methods.. These catalysts were prepared by hydrothermal method using zinc chloride ZnCl2, tin chloride SnCl4  and aluminium chloride AlCl3 precursors. Structure and physical properties of catalysts material were characterized by XRD, SEM. The products of glycerol conversion product was also tested by gas chromatography. The catalytic activity depends on reaction conditions (temperature and catalysts). The main product formed after the carbonylation reaction was glycerol carbonate. The selectivity of the main product was highest when using the Zn/Sn catalyst 5 % at a 145 °C during 5 hours with the yield was 77 %, the conversion degree was 88.5% and the selectivity was 86.91 %. For Al/Sn catalysts under the same reaction conditions, the efficiency was 61.3 % and the product selectivity achieved up to 74.05 % .
Indirect density tests for thin asphalt overlay – part 2: precision
Authors: Xu Yi , Nicklin Samuel , Bull Jack , Widyatmoko Iswandaru
Published: September 2018

This paper presents findings from a large-scale trial of thin asphalt overlay, with specific interest on assessing the precision of in situ density measurements under different moisture conditions and layer thickness. Three test methods were selected: the direct core density method (destructive) and two indirect (non-destructive) density methods. Indirect density measurements were found to be sensitive to pre-testing calibration and moisture condition. Statistical analysis was performed to establish the confidence intervals, variation and precision of the test results. A review of the literature, case studies and field testing suggested that the current equipment available on the market is not adequate for quality assurance (QA) purposes but acceptable for quality control. To improve the precision of indirect density gauges there should be a sound method for calibration, allowance for moisture and should only be considered for QA if ±5% variation from core densities can be demonstrated.
Genetic Variants Associated with Circulating Fibroblast Growth Factor 23
Authors: Robinson-Cohen Cassianne , Bartz Traci M. , Lai Dongbing , Ikizler T. Alp , Peacock Munro , Imel Erik A. , Michos Erin D. , Foroud Tatiana M. , Akesson Kristina , Taylor Kent D. , Malmgren Linnea , Matsushita Kunihiro , Nethander Maria , Eriksson Joel , Ohlsson Claes , Mellström Daniel , Wolf Myles , Ljunggren Osten , McGuigan Fiona , Rotter Jerome I. , Karlsson Magnus , Econs Michael J. , Ix Joachim H. , Lutsey Pamela L. , Psaty Bruce M. , de Boer Ian H. , Kestenbaum Bryan R.
Published: September 2018

Background

Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23), a bone-derived hormone that regulates phosphorus and vitamin D metabolism, contributes to the pathogenesis of mineral and bone disorders in CKD and is an emerging cardiovascular risk factor. Central elements of FGF23 regulation remain incompletely understood; genetic variation may help explain interindividual differences.

Methods

We performed a meta-analysis of genome-wide association studies of circulating FGF23 concentrations among 16,624 participants of European ancestry from seven cohort studies, excluding participants with eGFR<30 ml/min per 1.73 m2 to focus on FGF23 under normal conditions. We evaluated the association of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with natural log–transformed FGF23 concentration, adjusted for age, sex, study site, and principal components of ancestry. A second model additionally adjusted for BMI and eGFR.

Results

We discovered 154 SNPs from five independent regions associated with FGF23 concentration. The SNP with the strongest association, rs17216707 (P=3.0×10−24), lies upstream of CYP24A1, which encodes the primary catabolic enzyme for 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D and 25-hydroxyvitamin D. Each additional copy of the T allele at this locus is associated with 5% higher FGF23 concentration. Another locus strongly associated with variations in FGF23 concentration is rs11741640, within RGS14 and upstream of SLC34A1 (a gene involved in renal phosphate transport). Additional adjustment for BMI and eGFR did not materially alter the magnitude of these associations. Another top locus (within ABO, the ABO blood group transferase gene) was no longer statistically significant at the genome-wide level.

Conclusions

Common genetic variants located near genes involved in vitamin D metabolism and renal phosphate transport are associated with differences in circulating FGF23 concentrations.
Akdeniz Meyvesineği’nin mücadelesinde farklı yöntemlerin etkinliği
Authors: Yayla Miraç , Satar Serdar
Published: September 2018

Ceratitis capitata Wiedemann (Diptera: Tephritidae) Doğu Akdeniz Bölgesi’nde turunçgil, sert ve yumuşak çekirdekli meyvelerde önemli bir zararlıdır. Bu zararlının mücadelesinde üç farklı kontrol yöntemi kullanılmaktadır: i) besi tuzaklarıyla kitle yakalama, ii) zehirli yem kısmi dal, iii) yeşil aksam ilaçlaması. Bu yöntemlerin etkinliği üç farklı Okitsu Wase bahçesinde 2015 ve 2016 yıllarının meyve sezonunda (Temmuz-Ekim) McPhail tipi tuzaklara yakalanan meyve sineği sayısı ve zararlı ile bulaşık meyve sayısı sayılarak değerlendirilmiştir. Ceratitis capitata popülasyonu tüm mandarin bahçelerinde çalışma sezonu boyunca çok yüksek seviyelerde oluşturmuştur. Tüm bahçelerde ilk haftadan itibaren tuzak başına 50’den fazla birey yakalanmıştır. Popülasyon Ağustos sonuna kadar artmaya devam etmiş ve malathion-yem uygulanan bahçelerde haftada tuzak başına 700’den fazla C. capitata elde edilmiştir. Sonuçlar, üç metodun da C. capitata’yı yeterince kontrol edemediğini göstermiştir. Yeşil aksam ilaçlamasıyla ilk yılda öteki uygulamalardan daha az enfekteli meyve (%4.4) saptanmasına rağmen, besi tuzaklarıyla kitle halinde tuzakta yakalama (%15.03), ve malathion ile zehirli yem kısmi dal ilaçlama (%15.15) ikinci yıl daha iyi sonuç vermiştir. Sonuç olarak, bu çalışmada uygulanan bu metotların hiçbiri yüksek popülasyon düzeyinde tatmin edici sonuçlar sağlamamıştır, bu yüzden böyle yüksek popülasyon düzeylerinde entegre bir meyve sineği mücadele taktikleri uygulanmalıdır.
On Uganda government’s commitment to the development and implementation of the mother tongue education policy in post-2015 era
Authors: Masaazi Fred , Ssentanda Medadi , Ngaka Willy
Published: September 2018

The year 2015 was set as deadline to realise the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) which were authored in 2000 by 189 states in the world. Language is at the heart of MDGs (Barron, 2012; Romaine, 2013). Some scholars look at language (development) as a measure and/or determinant of development (e.g. Romaine, 2013). This paper examines Uganda’s commitment to the development and employment of mother tongues in education as a way of realising the quality of education in Uganda. It is important to reflect on the trend and level of mother tongue development and employment in education in Uganda to chart the way forward for the post-2015 period. The paper draws from different studies and reports which have focussed on mother tongue education in Uganda. This study faults the government in many ways for failing to sustain the national initiatives of mother tongue education, particularly in terms of poor financing and failure to monitor the implementation of UPE and mother tongue education programmes. The paper proposes a way forward for the realisation of a meaningful Education for All (EFA) in form of Universal Primary Education (UPE) initiative and the mother tongue education policy introduced in Uganda in 1997 and 2006 respectively.
Can Do and Cannot Do
Authors: Baldwin Richard , Apelgren Britt-Marie
Published: September 2018

The focus in this paper is on the introduction and implementation of learning outcomes based on the descriptors in the Common European Framework of References for Languages (CEFR). It discusses reaction to the introduction by teacher educators as well as the influence on teacher assessment practice in courses for prospective teachers of English as a foreign language. The paper presents some of the results from a case study concerning changes made in connection with the Bologna process in a department of education within a university college in Sweden. The results show that the adoption of the CEFR descriptors was contested and had a minimal influence on assessment practice. The aim of the paper is to explore possible reasons for the lack of influence, something that was not developed fully in the original case study.
A Study on the Strategies for the Ownership Risk Management of Restaurant Franchise Companies Using Opinion Mining and Situational Crisis Communication Theory(SCCT)
Authors:   The Tourism Sciences Society Of Korea, Kim Tae-Ho , Kim Hak-Seon
Published: September 2018

The purpose of this study was to know the risk response strategy for the owners of restaurant franchise companies using opinion mining and Situational Crisis Communication Theory (SCCT). Combs’ SCCT was used to analyze the personal problems associated with the classification of risk characteristics based on the volume of Google News. As a result of the analysis, corporate apology strategies, co-incidental strategies, and correction-action strategies were revealed. These strategies reassure customers through prevention of recurrence. It is also necessary to provide new metrics for rapid decision making and corporate culture through the analysis of the current environment. It can be said that the business structure of a single-person system is not reasonable for decision making. It is urgent to have a professional management system (CEO) for efficient business operation. These results could be used as basic research material to discuss the strategy of countermeasures against owner-occupied franchise companies using opinion mining.
Conservation status the genus Hampea (Malvaceae: Gossypieae) in Mexico
Authors: Jones Robert W. , Cruz-Torres M. Fernanda , López-González Carlos , Duarte-Fernández Magdalena A.
Published: September 2018

Background. The genus Hampea (Malvaceae: Gossypieae) has 21 reported species and occurs in Mexico, Central America and Colombia. Mexico has eleven species, of which seven are endemic. Hampea is of special conservation interest because its members are wild relatives of cultivated cotton and several species are apparently threatened by anthropogenic activities.Questions: What is the conservation status of species of Hampea in Mexico?Study site and years of study: Observations were made in the field during 1991-1995, 2012 and 2016 in southern Mexico. Specimen data was obtained from the CONABIO data base and from national and international herbaria from 2014-2016.Methods.  The conservation status of species of Hampea in Mexico was evaluated using criteria given in the Methods of the Evaluation of Risk of Extinction of Plants (MER-Plantas) (NOM-059-SEMARNAT-2010).  The potential distribution was calculated using Maximum Entropy Algorithm and biological data for species were obtained from literature and field observations.Results. Seven species of the genus Hampea were considered to be in a category of risk under the MER-Plantas criteria. Hampea montebellensis , H. breedlovei , and H. longipes were categorized as “at Risk of Extinction,” (En Peligro de Extinción ); H. latifolia was categorized as “Threatened” (Amenazada) and H. stipitata, H. mexicana, and H. tomentosa categorized as “Subject to Special Protection” ( Sujeto a Protección Especial ).Conclusions. The species H. breedlovei , H. montebellensis , H. longipes, H . latifolia, H. mexicana, H. stipitata and H. tomentosa need to be included in ex situ and in situ conservation programs.