bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Managing amidst mosaic: Integrating values and rationalization in the nonprofit arts
Authors: Reisman Leah M. G.
Published: January 2018

This ethnographic study of visionary art environment Philadelphia's Magic Gardens (PMG) draws on theories of rationalization in nonprofits to explore factors that influence the impact of this process on organizations. Responding to theories that rationalization attenuates expressive drivers of nonprofit activity, an analysis of PMG is used to explore and contextualize a literature‐derived theoretical framework that suggests variables that may influence the outcome of rationalization processes in organizations. The PMG case supports and adds nuance to a notion that the strength of expressive and rationalizing impulses and the convergence or divergence of intra‐organizational values influence whether growing nonprofits are able to integrate instrumental structures and expressive motivations.
Comprehensive behavioral analysis of tryptophan 2,3‐dioxygenase (Tdo2) knockout mice
Authors: Hattori Satoko , Takao Keizo , Funakoshi Hiroshi , Miyakawa Tsuyoshi
Published: January 2018

Aims

Tryptophan 2,3‐dioxygenase (TDO2) is an initial rate‐limiting enzyme of the kynurenine (Kyn) pathway in tryptophan (Trp) metabolism. The Trp‐degrading enzymes, TDO2 and indoleamine 2,3‐dioxygenase, are activated by stress and/or inflammation. Dysregulation of Trp metabolism, which causes shifts in the balance between Kyn and serotonin (5‐HT) pathways, is associated with psychiatric and neurological disorders. In genetic studies, single‐nucleotide polymorphisms in the TDO2 gene were shown to be involved in psychiatric disorders, such as schizophrenia and depression. It has been reported that targeted deletion of the Tdo2 gene in mice resulted in reduced anxiety‐like behavior, enhanced exploratory activity and cognitive performance, and increased levels of Trp and 5‐HT in the hippocampus and midbrain. However, the effect of Tdo2 gene deletion on behavioral phenotypes has not yet been investigated extensively.

Materials & Methods

We conducted tests to further examine the behavioral effects of knockout (KO) of Tdo2 in mice.

Results

Deletion of Tdo2 resulted in seemingly lower anxiety‐like behavior, higher locomotor activity, and abnormal gait pattern in mice, though none of them reached study‐wide statistical significance. Tdo2 deficiency had no significant effects on other behaviors, such as prepulse inhibition, and depression‐like and social behaviors.

Discussion and Conclusion

He lack of clear phenotypes in Tdo2KO mice in this study might be due to the absence of stress and inflammatory conditions, which could induce expression of Tdo2 mRNA. Further studies are necessary to elucidate the roles of Tdo2 in behavioral phenotypes related to psychiatric disorders.
Adult weight management across the community: population‐level impact of the LOSE IT to WIN IT challenge
Authors: VanWormer J. J. , Pereira R. F. , Sillah A. , Sidebottom A. C. , Benson G. A. , Lindberg R. , Winters C. , Boucher J. L.
Published: January 2018

Objective

Excess body weight negatively impacts health, but there are few evaluations of low‐intensity weight management challenge programs in defined populations. This study examined weight change in adults who participated in the LOSE IT to WIN IT (LIWI) health challenge in a US community. The community‐level impact on body mass index was also explored.

Methods

Body weight was analysed over 1 year in the cohort of LIWI enrolees, stratified by participants who were healthy weight or overweight/obese at baseline. Secondarily, a multiple cross‐sectional analysis compared the 2.5‐year trends in body mass index between community adults who did vs. did not participate in LIWI.

Results

LOSE IT to WIN IT participants who were overweight/obese lost a mean (95% confidence interval) 1.6 (1.2, 2.0) kg (~2%) over 1 year (p < 0.001), whereas healthy weight participants lost 0.7 (0.3, 1.1) kg. Across the community, LIWI participants and non‐participants both gained 0.4 kg m−2 over the 2.5‐year study period (p = 0.884).

Conclusions

LOSE IT to WIN IT was modestly effective among enrolees, resulting in a small weight loss of 2% over 1 year among those who were overweight/obese. However, LIWI did not impact weight gain in the community. To slow such community‐level weight gain trends, weight management challenges must reach larger fractions of the populations that they target.
Trump's FEMA administrator appointment: The pick he got correct
Authors: Malone Matthew A.
Published: January 2018

Donald Trump has made many controversial appointments since taking the office of President of the United States of America. Many of his appointees have had little to no experience in their substantive area. Some even argue that many of his appointees received their jobs from patronage. One glaring exception is Brock Long's appointment as Director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Long served as the Director of the Alabama Emergency Agency, the state level equivalent of FEMA. Given that he is an experience public servant, Long may prove to be of the better appointments made by President Trump.
Relevance of frailty to mortality associated with the use of antipsychotics among community‐residing older adults with impaired cognition
Authors: Maxwell Colleen J. , Campitelli Michael A. , Hogan David B. , Diong Christina , Austin Peter C. , Amuah Joseph E. , Lapane Kate , Seitz Dallas P. , Gill Sudeep S. , Gruneir Andrea , Wodchis Walter P. , Bronskill Susan E.
Published: January 2018

Purpose

To examine the association between new antipsychotic use and mortality over 6 months among community‐based older adults with cognitive impairment, and variation in risk by frailty and sex.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of older (aged 66+) home care clients in Ontario, Canada, using linked administrative health and clinical databases. Included were clients with dementia and/or significant cognitive impairment assessed during April 2008 to March 2013. Frailty was defined using a validated 72‐item index. Exposed were those newly dispensed an antipsychotic in the 6 months post cohort entry, with no such claims in the year prior to drug index date. Two‐stage matching defined unexposed clients and their index date (matching on age, sex, frailty, assessment year, and propensity score). Outcome was time to death following index date. Cause‐specific hazards models were used, and number needed to harm at 6 months was estimated from cumulative incidence function curves.

Results

Among 4955 matched exposed‐unexposed pairs, new antipsychotic users showed a significantly increased hazard of mortality at 1, 3, and 6 months relative to unexposed, with the highest risk observed in the first month (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.08 [95% CI, 1.79‐2.43]). At 1 month, risk was significantly higher for robust (HR = 3.72 [95% CI, 2.45‐5.66]) vs frail (HR = 1.74 [95% CI, 1.40‐2.17], P = .002) clients. The number needed to harm was 22.7 and did not vary by frailty but was lower for men (14.9) than for women (35.0).

Conclusions

Risk of antipsychotic‐associated mortality was highest in the first month following exposure, varied significantly by client frailty, and was greater among men than among women.
Proteome Heterogeneity in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Lim Lay Cheng , Lim Yang Mooi
Published: January 2018

Tumor heterogeneity is an important feature of colorectal cancer (CRC) manifested by dynamic changes in gene expression, protein expression, and availability of different tumor subtypes. Recent publications in the past 10 years have revealed proteome heterogeneity between different colorectal tumors and within the same tumor site. This paper reviews recent research works on the proteome heterogeneity in CRC, which includes the heterogeneity within a single tumor (intratumor heterogeneity), between different anatomical sites at the same organ, and between primary and metastatic sites (intertumor heterogeneity). The potential use of proteome heterogeneity in precision medicine and its implications in biomarker discovery and therapeutic outcomes will be discussed. Identification of the unique proteome landscape between and within individual tumors is imperative for understanding cancer biology and the management of CRC patients.
Pendant Chains Are Not Just Decorations: Investigation of Structure‐Property Relationships of Azido Oxetane Polymers
Authors: Ma Yiding , Liu Yingzhe , Yu Tao , Lai Weipeng , Ge Zhongxue , Jiang Zhenyi
Published: January 2018

The influence of the structure of azido oxetane polymers, i. e., the location, length and number of the pendant chains on their densities, enthalpies of formation, glass transition temperatures and mechanical properties of the polymers were investigated. The results show that the densities, enthalpies of formation and elastic moduli decrease monotonously as the number and length of the pendant chains increase. Glass transition temperatures has minimum values when there is one or two methane groups (−CH2) on the pendant chains. Moreover, the densities, elastic muduli and the enthalpies of formation increase with the introduction of azido groups. We found that the Tg of the polymers can be at best reduced by 17 K without compromising the energetic or mechanical performances. This study reveals the structure‐property relationships of the azido oxetane polymers and provides guidance on the principles of designing new energetic binders for explosives and rocket propellants.
Exposure‐Response Model of Subcutaneous C1‐Inhibitor Concentrate to Estimate the Risk of Attacks in Patients With Hereditary Angioedema
Authors: Zhang Ying , Tortorici Michael A. , Pawaskar Dipti , Pragst Ingo , Machnig Thomas , Hutmacher Matthew , Zuraw Bruce , Cicardi Marco , Craig Timothy , Longhurst Hilary , Sidhu Jagdev
Published: January 2018

Subcutaneous C1‐inhibitor (HAEGARDA, CSL Behring), is a US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)‐approved, highly concentrated formulation of a plasma‐derived C1‐esterase inhibitor (C1‐INH), which, in the phase III Clinical Studies for Optimal Management in Preventing Angioedema with Low‐Volume Subcutaneous C1‐inhibitor Replacement Therapy (COMPACT) trial, reduced the incidence of hereditary angioedema (HAE) attacks when given prophylactically. Data from the COMPACT trial were used to develop a repeated time‐to‐event model to characterize the timing and frequency of HAE attacks as a function of C1‐INH activity, and then develop an exposure–response model to assess the relationship between C1‐INH functional activity levels (C1‐INH(f)) and the risk of an attack. The C1‐INH(f) values of 33.1%, 40.3%, and 63.1% were predicted to correspond with 50%, 70%, and 90% reductions in the HAE attack risk, respectively, relative to no therapy. Based on trough C1‐INH(f) values for the 40 IU/kg (40.2%) and 60 IU/kg (48.0%) C1‐INH (SC) doses, the model predicted that 50% and 67% of the population, respectively, would see at least a 70% decrease in the risk of an attack.
Inductive Peaking Technology for Bandwidth Enhancement in Carbon Nanotube Bundle Interconnect
Authors: Zhao Songjie , Pan Zhongliang
Published: January 2018

Based on transmission line modeling, this paper proposes an inductive peaking technology to improve the bandwidth of single‐walled carbon nanotube interconnect. And the transfer function of the equivalent model is derived to obtain the frequency response of the interconnect according to ABCD parameter matrix approach. Considering the effects of temperature, length, load resistance, and driver size, the 3‐dB bandwidth of the interconnect for 14 nm technology node at global level versus the peaking inductance has been obtained. The results show an increase of the peaking inductance can improve the bandwidth effectively. However, the increase is not boundless for higher inductances. The bandwidth will roughly maintain a steady level when the value of the inductance reaches a certain degree. Moreover, overshoot phenomenon will occur and the crosstalk is increased for larger inductance. On the other hand, as the length, temperature, and load resistance increase, 3‐dB bandwidth decreases correspondingly. Whereas it increases with the increase of the driver size.
Al2O3 Insertion Layer for Improved PEALD SiO2/(Al)GaN Interfaces
Authors: Gao Jianyi , Hao Mei , Li Wenwen , Xu Zheng , Mandal Saptarshi , Nemanich Robert , Chowdhury Srabanti
Published: January 2018

The development of high‐quality gate dielectric/III‐N semiconductor interfaces is indispensable to achieve high performance GaN‐based high electron mobility transistors (HEMTs). In this work, we present improved interfaces between SiO2 and GaN (or AlGaN) with Al2O3 insertion layer deposited by plasma‐enhanced atomic layer deposition (PEALD). Interface state density (Dit) and border trap density (Nbt) were characterized using UV‐assisted C–V measurement on metal‐oxide‐semiconductor capacitors (MOSCAPs). SiO2 with Al2O3 insertion layer exhibited integrated Dit of 1.93 × 1011 cm−2, one order of magnitude lower than that without Al2O3 insertion layer. Nbt of SiO2 with Al2O3 insertion layer is nearly twice of that without Al2O3 insertion layer. Stressed C–V measurement further confirmed improved interface with Al2O3 insertion layer. To investigate the performance of MOS‐HEMT using SiO2 with Al2O3 insertion layer as a gate dielectric, pulsed IDS–VGS measurements were performed. MOS‐HEMT exhibited positive threshold voltage shift, which is attributed to electron trapping in interface states and border traps.
Improved Light Output Power of 16 × 16 Pixelated Micro‐LEDs for Headlights by Enhancing the Reflectivity and Coverage of the p‐Electrode
Authors: Kim Tae Kyoung , Cho Moon Uk , Lee Jae Min , Cha Yu‐Jung , Oh Seung Kyu , Chatterjee Bikramjit , Ryou Jae‐Hyun , Choi Sukwon , Kwak Joon Seop
Published: January 2018

A pixel array of micro‐light emitting diodes (µ‐LEDs) based on a flip‐chip structure and driven by a passive matrix is fabricated. The array is fabricated through multi‐level metallization using a photosensitive polyimide (PSPI) inter‐metal dielectric (IMD) layer. The device consisted of 256 pixels in a 2 × 2 mm2 array (the individual pixel area is 115 × 115 µm2). This device facilitates the control of individual µ‐LEDs in the array. To investigate the effect of reflectivity and coverage to p‐GaN on mesa area of p‐type electrode, controlled and uncontrolled µ‐LED arrays is fabricated with different reflectivity and coverage of the p‐type electrode. The results show that the devices has similar electrical properties. The light output power and maximum electroluminescence intensity of the controlled µ‐LED array is improved by 3.7 and 5.1 times at injection currents of 100 and 60 mA compared to the uncontrolled µ‐LED array, respectively. The variation of dark spaces in several emission images (total 9 pixels) is investigated as a function of the pixel pitch for the controlled µ‐LED array at an injection current of 20 mA. The results shows that the dark space between pixels almost disappears at a pixel pitch of 125 µm.
Bias Temperature Instability of Normally‐Off GaN MIS‐FET with Low‐Pressure Chemical Vapor Deposition SiNx Gate Dielectric
Authors: Hua Mengyuan , Qian Qingkai , Wei Jin , Zhang Zhaofu , Tang Gaofei , Chen Kevin J.
Published: January 2018

In this work, characterizations are conducted to investigate the threshold voltage (VTH) stability of the normally‐off GaN metal–insulator–semiconductor (MIS‐) field‐effect transistor (FET) with fully recessed gate structure and highly reliable low‐pressure chemical vapor deposition SiNx gate dielectric. We conducted bias‐temperature instability (BTI) tests under both positive and negative gate bias. We demonstrated the highly stable VTH of the high‐performance MIS‐FETs with small BTI, which benefits from the effective interfacial protection layer. More specifically, combining the BTI tests and drain current 1/f noise analysis, we present extensive investigation of the physical origins of BTI. According to the experimental evidence and analysis, we ascribe the VTH instability to the trapping/detrapping of the pre‐existing trap states located at the SiNx/GaN interface and/or in the gate dielectric.
Antimicrobial activity of functionalized single‐walled carbon nanotube with herbal extract of Hempedu bumi
Authors: Foo Mu Ee , Anbu Periasamy , Gopinath Subash C. B. , Lakshmipriya Thangavel , Lee Choul‐Gyun , Yun Hyun Shik , Uda M. N. A. , Yaakub Ahmad Radi Wan
Published: January 2018

The primary purpose of this study was to determine the antimicrobial activity of functionalized single‐walled carbon nanotube (SWNT) using an extract of the herb, Hempedu bumi. H bumi extract and H bumi extract complexed SWNT were evaluated for biological activities against Bacillus sp., (pathogen) Escherichia coli (opportunistic pathogen), and Aspergillus niger (pathogen). The formation of inhibition zones of these 3 microbes was measured to be evident for the functionalized SWNT with H bumi. Further, morphological and structural analyses were conducted to investigate the functionalized SWNT with H bumi using scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X‐ray powder diffraction, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, well supporting the intact and crystalline nature of the SWNT. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy result shows the highest peak at 3371.48 cm−1, representing an andrographolide group from the plant extract. An apparent clear zone has been noticed with SWNT conjugated H bumi extract, displaying a zone of inhibition larger than 1.0 cm against the tested microbes. The results indicate that SWNT has the potential for use as a carrier of components from plant extracts.
Modeling clustering and treatment effect heterogeneity in parallel and stepped‐wedge cluster randomized trials
Authors: Hemming Karla , Taljaard Monica , Forbes Andrew
Published: January 2018

Cluster randomized trials are frequently used in health service evaluation. It is common practice to use an analysis model with a random effect to allow for clustering at the analysis stage. In designs where clusters are exposed to both control and treatment conditions, it may be of interest to examine treatment effect heterogeneity across clusters. In designs where clusters are not exposed to both control and treatment conditions, it can also be of interest to allow heterogeneity in the degree of clustering between arms. These two types of heterogeneity are related. It has been proposed in both parallel cluster trials, stepped‐wedge, and other cross‐over designs that this heterogeneity can be allowed for by incorporating additional random effect(s) into the model. Here, we show that the choice of model parameterization needs careful consideration as some parameterizations for additional heterogeneity induce unnecessary or implausible assumptions. We suggest more appropriate parameterizations, discuss their relative advantages, and demonstrate the implications of these model choices using a real example of a parallel cluster trial and a simulated stepped‐wedge trial.
A comparison of seven random‐effects models for meta‐analyses that estimate the summary odds ratio
Authors: Jackson Dan , Law Martin , Stijnen Theo , Viechtbauer Wolfgang , White Ian R.
Published: January 2018

Comparative trials that report binary outcome data are commonly pooled in systematic reviews and meta‐analyses. This type of data can be presented as a series of 2‐by‐2 tables. The pooled odds ratio is often presented as the outcome of primary interest in the resulting meta‐analysis. We examine the use of 7 models for random‐effects meta‐analyses that have been proposed for this purpose. The first of these models is the conventional one that uses normal within‐study approximations and a 2‐stage approach. The other models are generalised linear mixed models that perform the analysis in 1 stage and have the potential to provide more accurate inference. We explore the implications of using these 7 models in the context of a Cochrane Review, and we also perform a simulation study. We conclude that generalised linear mixed models can result in better statistical inference than the conventional 2‐stage approach but also that this type of model presents issues and difficulties. These challenges include more demanding numerical methods and determining the best way to model study specific baseline risks. One possible approach for analysts is to specify a primary model prior to performing the systematic review but also to present the results using other models in a sensitivity analysis. Only one of the models that we investigate is found to perform poorly so that any of the other models could be considered for either the primary or the sensitivity analysis.
Deep Tumor Penetrating Bioparticulates Inspired Burst Intracellular Drug Release for Precision Chemo‐Phototherapy
Authors: Wang Ruoning , Han Yue , Sun Bo , Zhao Ziqiang , Opoku‐Damoah Yaw , Cheng Hao , Zhang Huaqing , Zhou Jianping , Ding Yang
Published: January 2018

The relevance of personalized medicine has inspired research for individually concerted diagnosis and therapy. Numerous efforts are devoted to designing drug particulates with capabilities of tumor penetrating and subcellular trafficking to concurrently discharge theranostics in response to multistimulations. In this study, a bioinspired particulate, formulated with whole components of native high‐density lipoproteins (HDLs) and decorated with the tumor‐penetrating peptide iRGD, is proposed to promote tumor penetration of HDLs (pHDLs) together with payloads. Specifically, paclitaxel (PTX), and the NIR fluorescent probe indocyanine green (ICG) are integrated into pHDLs (pHDL/PTX‐ICG) for synergetic chemo‐phototherapy. Inspired by lipoproteins, pHDLs are not only restored from naturally occurring materials but also possessed artificially endowed functions, leading to an enhanced cellular uptake, higher accumulation, and deep penetration into tumors without causing appreciable adverse effects, compared to reconstituted HDLs or lipid‐based nanoparticles. After intravenous administration, pHDL/PTX‐ICG performs a burst of intracellular drug release and imaging‐guided precision chemo‐phototherapy upon NIR irradiation that completely eradicates xenograft tumors. Neither recurrence nor significant toxicity is observed due to maneuvered regional photodynamic and photothermal therapy. Taken together, pHDL/PTX‐ICG is proven to be a promising platform to achieve deep tumor penetration and imaging‐guided chemo‐phototherapy.
Recent Progress in Iron‐Based Electrode Materials for Grid‐Scale Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Fang Yongjin , Chen Zhongxue , Xiao Lifen , Ai Xinping , Cao Yuliang , Yang Hanxi
Published: January 2018

Grid‐scale energy storage batteries with electrode materials made from low‐cost, earth‐abundant elements are needed to meet the requirements of sustainable energy systems. Sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) with iron‐based electrodes offer an attractive combination of low cost, plentiful structural diversity and high stability, making them ideal candidates for grid‐scale energy storage systems. Although various iron‐based cathode and anode materials have been synthesized and evaluated for sodium storage, further improvements are still required in terms of energy/power density and long cyclic stability for commercialization. In this Review, progress in iron‐based electrode materials for SIBs, including oxides, polyanions, ferrocyanides, and sulfides, is briefly summarized. In addition, the reaction mechanisms, electrochemical performance enhancements, structure–composition–performance relationships, merits and drawbacks of iron‐based electrode materials for SIBs are discussed. Such iron‐based electrode materials will be competitive and attractive electrodes for next‐generation energy storage devices.
Bifacial p‐Type Silicon Shingle Solar Cells − the “pSPEER” Concept
Authors: Baliozian Puzant , Lohmüller Elmar , Fellmeth Tobias , Wöhrle Nico , Krieg Alexander , Preu Ralf
Published: January 2018

Shingled interconnection of solar cells allows increased output power density pout by (i) increasing the active cell area within the module, (ii) decreasing shading losses, and (iii) reducing both series resistance per cell as well as interconnection losses. An additional increase in pout is possible by shingled interconnection using bifacial solar cells, allowing the light capture from the rear side as well. The “p‐type silicon shingled passivated edge, emitter, and rear (pSPEER)” solar cell concept introduced and examined in this work as an approach for fabrication of bifacial shingle solar cells is based on the passivated emitter and rear cell (PERC) concept. This article portrays bifacial pSPEER solar cells that are fabricated using industrial 6‐inch p‐type Czochralski‐grown silicon PERC precursors. After contact firing, the 6‐inch host wafers are separated by means of conventional laser scribing and manual mechanical cleaving into six pSPEER solar cells each with an area of 23 × 148 mm2. Current‐volt­age measure­ments of these bifacial pSPEER solar cells with front side illumination yield peak pout,f = 20.4 mW cm−2 on a black background (total cell area, busbar included). For an irradiance of 1000 W m−2, this pout,f is equivalent to an energy conversion efficiency of 20.4%. By additional rear side illumination with an irradiance of 100 W m−2, peak pout = 21.5 mW cm−2 is obtained for these pSPEER solar cells.
Splitting Water by Electrochemistry and Artificial Photosynthesis: Excellent Science but a Nightmare of Translation?
Authors: Antonietti Markus , Savateev Alexandr
Published: January 2018

Water splitting to its elements, either by electrochemistry or by solar light, is among the most covered areas in nanostructured functional materials. This personal account article analyzes potential downstream translation problems and reviews alternative chemistries with a potential higher return. Liberation of oxygen for accepting the holes is a kinetically demanding half reaction afflicted with kinetic hindrances and high overpotentials, while at the same time no marketable value is created (atmospheric oxygen is free to use). In spite of exciting science created, application in real industrial set‐ups is currently impossible, and possible funding promises to contribute to a sustainable society become a debt difficult to return. We discuss possible alternative targets of (photo)electrochemistry as entry points where chemical value products and technical oxidants are created, with partially greater ease, lower losses, and higher benefits.
What Kind of Book? Selecting Picture Books for Vocabulary Acquisition
Authors: Larragueta Marta , Ceballos‐Viro Ignacio
Published: January 2018

This study analyzes the importance of selecting adequate picture books to facilitate the acquisition of new vocabulary with youngEFLlearners, taking into account the complexity of the narration, the complexity of the illustrations, and the appropriate number of sessions. The study was conducted with a class of twenty‐two 3‐year‐old students at a charter school in Madrid, Spain. Results showed that students learned more vocabulary when the narration consisted of simple sentences or single words and when the books had at most three elements per page, with a clear distinction between those elements and the background. This study shows the importance of making a good selection of picture books to be used as a tool in theEFLclass and offers the possibility for further studies with a bigger sample, also analyzing factors such as the length of the books and the number of target vocabulary words considered.
Nanofiltration membranes based on PA6/EVOH with variable composition and morphology
Authors: Haddadpour Nazanin , Ahmadi Zahed , Shariatinia Zahra , Afshari Taromi Faramarz
Published: January 2018

Nanofiltration PA6/EVOH membranes were prepared through a nonsolvent induced phase separation technique. The effects of polymer concentration in the solution and solvent evaporation time on the performance and morphology of the resulting membranes were investigated by cloud point titration, permeation, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Experimental cloud point data for various prepared membranes suggested that polymer solutions with higher concentrations of PA6/EVOH need a less content of nonsolvent. SEM observations show that an increase in polymer concentration leads to formation of a thin dense layer on the surface of the membrane thanks to pore size reduction. However, dense top layer of membrane becomes thicker as polymer concentration increases from 15 wt% to 20 wt%. The performance of membranes reveals a decrease with polymer concentration in casting solution. By contrast, Polyamide/Poly(ethylene‐co‐vinyl alcohol) membranes show an optimal performance with various formic acid evaporation times. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 25:E28–E34, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Scarless wound healing: Transitioning from fetal research to regenerative healing
Authors: Moore Alessandra L. , Marshall Clement D. , Barnes Leandra A. , Murphy Matthew P. , Ransom Ryan C. , Longaker Michael T.
Published: January 2018

Since the discovery of scarless fetal skin wound healing, research in the field has expanded significantly with the hopes of advancing the finding to adult human patients. There are several differences between fetal and adult skin that have been exploited to facilitate scarless healing in adults including growth factors, cytokines, and extracellular matrix substitutes. However, no one therapy, pathway, or cell subtype is sufficient to support scarless wound healing in adult skin. More recently, products that contain or mimic fetal and adult uninjured dermis were introduced to the wound healing market with promising clinical outcomes. Through our review of the major experimental targets of fetal wound healing, we hope to encourage research in areas that may have a significant clinical impact. Additionally, we will investigate therapies currently in clinical use and evaluate whether they represent a legitimate advance in regenerative medicine or a vulnerary agent. WIREs Dev Biol 2018, 7:e309. doi: 10.1002/wdev.309

This article is categorized under:

Adult Stem Cells, Tissue Renewal, and Regeneration > Regeneration

Plant Development > Cell Growth and Differentiation

Adult Stem Cells, Tissue Renewal, and Regeneration > Environmental Control of Stem Cells
Effects of physical activity on the symptoms of Tourette syndrome: A systematic review
Authors: Kim David D. , Warburton Darren E.R. , Wu Nana , Barr Alasdair M. , Honer William G. , Procyshyn Ric M.
Published: January 2018

There is irrefutable evidence that routine physical activity or exercise can offer considerable health benefits to individuals living with various mental disorders. However, it is not clear what effect physical activity has on the symptoms of Tourette syndrome. Despite a paucity of evidence, physical activity or exercise has already been recommended by various health organizations for the management of tics. We provide a systematic review of the effects of physical activity or exercise on tic symptomology in individuals with Tourette syndrome. Major electronic databases were searched for all available publications before August 2017. Keywords and MeSH terms included “physical activity” or “exercise” or “exercise therapy” or “physical exertion” or “sports” and “tics” or “tic disorders” or “Tourette.” Eight studies were included, the majority of which were case reports. Despite a number of methodological limitations of the included studies, the review points to a trend that the effects of acute physical activity are intensity-dependent, where light intensity may alleviate and vigorous intensity may exacerbate tics. Chronic physical activity, however, appears to reduce the severity of tics even at higher intensity. Several physiological mechanisms may explain the differential effects of acute and chronic physical activity in Tourette syndrome. Future randomized controlled studies should better characterize the effects of different intensities and types of physical activity in Tourette syndrome.
The Association of Clinic‐Based Mobility Tasks and Measures of Community Performance and Risk
Authors: Callisaya Michele L. , Verghese Joe
Published: January 2018

Introduction

Gait speed is recognized as an important predictor of adverse outcomes in older people. However, it is unknown whether other more complex mobility tasks are better predictors of such outcomes.

Objective

To examine a range of clinic‐based mobility tests and determine which were most strongly associated with measures of community performance and risk (CP&R).

Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Setting

Central Control Mobility and Aging Study, Westchester County, New York.

Participants

Aged ≥65 years (n = 424).

Methods

Clinic‐based mobility measures included gait speed measured during normal and dual‐task conditions, the Floor Maze Immediate and Delay tasks, and stair ascending and descending. CP&R measures were self‐reported by the use of standardized questionnaires and classified into measures of performance (distance walked, travel outside one's home [life space], activities of daily living, and participation in cognitive leisure activities) or risk (balance confidence, fear of falling, and past falls). Linear and logistic regression were used to examine associations between the clinic‐based mobility measures and CP&R measures adjusting for covariates.

Results

The mean age of the sample was 77.8 (SD 6.4) years, and 55.2% (n = 234) were female. In final models, faster normal walking speed was most strongly associated with 5 of the 7 community measures (greater distance walked, greater life space, better activities of daily living function, higher balance confidence, and less fear of falling; all P < .05). More complex tasks (walking while talking and maze immediate) were associated with cognitive leisure activity (P < .05), and ascending stairs was the only measure associated with a history of falls (P < .05).

Conclusion

Normal walking speed is a simple and inexpensive clinic‐based mobility test that is associated with a wide range of CP&R measures. In addition, poorer performance ascending stairs may assist in identifying those at risk of falls. Poorer performance in more complex mobility tasks (walking while talking and maze immediate) may suggest inability to participate in cognitive leisure activities.

Level of Evidence

III
Chronic Thigh Pain in a Young Adult Diagnosed as Synovial Sarcoma: A Case Report
Authors: Chambers Lauren A. , Lesher John M.
Published: January 2018

Synovial sarcoma is a slow‐growing, intermediate‐ to high‐grade neoplasm with extensive metastatic potential. Accurate diagnosis of synovial sarcoma may pose a challenge to providers because of its indolent growth and variable presentation. The findings of a soft‐tissue, periarticular mass with calcifications in a young patient are highly suggestive of synovial sarcoma. Although different imaging modalities can aid in the diagnosis of synovial sarcoma, diagnostic certainty is typically only confirmed by biopsy and histologic analysis. We present a case describing the diagnostic workup of synovial sarcoma with an emphasis on imaging findings in a patient with increasing symptomatology spanning more than a decade.

Level of Evidence

V
Rethinking nudge: not one but three concepts
Authors: MONGIN PHILIPPE , COZIC MIKAËL
Published: January 2018

‘Nudge’ is a concept of policy intervention that originates in Thaler and Sunstein's (2008) popular eponymous book. Following their own hints, we distinguish three properties of nudge interventions: they redirect individual choices by only slightly altering choice conditions (here ‘nudge 1’); they use rationality failures instrumentally (here ‘nudge 2’); and they alleviate the unfavourable effects of these failures (here ‘nudge 3’). We explore each property in semantic detail and show that no entailment relation holds between them. This calls into question the theoretical unity of nudge as intended by Thaler and Sunstein and most of their followers. We eventually recommend pursuing each property separately, both in policy research and at the foundational level. We particularly emphasise the need for reconsidering the respective roles of decision theory and behavioural economics to delineate nudge 2 correctly. The paper differs from most in the literature in focusing on the definitional rather than the normative problems of nudge.
Spontaneous inertia–gravity wave emission in the differentially heated rotating annulus experiment
Authors: Hien Steffen , Rolland Joran , Borchert Sebastian , Schoon Lena , Zülicke Christoph , Achatz Ulrich
Published: January 2018

The source mechanism of inertia–gravity waves (IGWs) observed in numerical simulations of the differentially heated rotating annulus experiment is investigated. The focus is on the wave generation from the balanced part of the flow, a process presumably contributing significantly to the atmospheric IGW field. Direct numerical simulations are performed for an atmosphere-like configuration of the annulus and possible regions of IGW activity are characterised by a Hilbert-transform algorithm. In addition, the flow is separated into a balanced and unbalanced part, assuming the limit of a small Rossby number, and the forcing of IGWs by the balanced part of the flow is derived rigorously. Tangent-linear simulations are then used to identify the part of the IGW signal that is rather due to radiation by the internal balanced flow than to boundary-layer instabilities at the side walls. An idealised fluid set-up without rigid horizontal boundaries is considered as well, to investigate the effect of the identified balanced forcing unmasked by boundary-layer effects. The direct simulations of the realistic and idealised fluid set-ups show a clear baroclinic-wave structure exhibiting a jet–front system similar to its atmospheric counterparts, superimposed by four distinct IGW packets. The subsequent tangent-linear analysis indicates that three wave packets are radiated from the internal flow and a fourth one is probably caused by boundary-layer instabilities. The forcing by the balanced part of the flow is found to play a significant role in the generation of IGWs, so it supplements boundary-layer instabilities as a key factor in the IGW emission in the differentially heated rotating annulus.
Cognitive enhancement in old dogs from dietary supplementation with a nutrient blend containing arginine, antioxidants, B vitamins and fish oil
Authors: Pan Yuanlong , Kennedy Adam D. , Jönsson Thomas J. , Milgram Nortan W.
Published: January 2018

This study focused on the hypothesis that cognitive decline in aged dogs could be attenuated by dietary supplementation with a nutrient blend consisting of antioxidants, B vitamins, fish oil andl-arginine, referred to hereafter as the Brain Protection Blend (BPB). Baseline cognitive assessment before the start of treatment was used to establish cognitively equivalent control (10·464+2·33 kg) and treatment (12·118+3·386 kg) groups of aged dogs between 9·1 and 11·5 years of age and with body condition score of 5. After an initial wash-in period, all dogs were tested over a 6-month period on cognitive test protocols that assessed four phases of a landmark discrimination learning protocol, which assessed a spatial learning skill based on utilisation of external cues, and egocentric discrimination task, which assessed spatial learning based on internal body-centred cues. The BPB-supplemented group showed significantly better performance than the controls on the landmark 1 (P=0·0446) discrimination learning tasks, and on two egocentric discrimination reversal learning tasks (P=0·005 andP=0·01, respectively). The groups did not differ significantly (P>0·10) on the landmark zero discrimination task and the egocentric discrimination learning task. These results suggest beneficial effects are positively linked to task complexity. Many of the nutrients supplemented in the BPB diet were significantly higher in plasma, including arginine,α-tocopherol, DHA and EPA. These results indicate that long-term supplementation with the BPB can have cognition-improving effects and support the use of nutritional strategies in targeting brain ageing-associated risk factors as an intervention to delay cognitive ageing.
Prevalence and determinants of vitamin D deficiency in the third trimester of pregnancy: a multicentre study in Switzerland
Authors: Krieger Jean-Philippe , Cabaset Sophie , Canonica Claudia , Christoffel Ladina , Richard Aline , Schröder Therese , von Wattenwyl Begoña Lipp , Rohrmann Sabine , Lötscher Katharina Quack
Published: January 2018

Vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy is associated with negative health consequences for mothers and their infants. Data on the vitamin D status of pregnant women in Switzerland are scarce. A three-centre study was conducted in the obstetric departments of Zurich, Bellinzona and Samedan (Switzerland) to investigate the prevalence and determinants of vitamin D deficiency (serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D)<50 nmol/l) in 3rd-trimester pregnant women living in Switzerland (n 305), and the correlation between 25(OH)D in pregnant women and their offspring at birth (n 278). Demographic and questionnaire data were used to explore the determinants of vitamin D deficiency. Median concentration of serum 25(OH)D in the third trimester of pregnancy was 46·0 nmol/l (1st–3rd quartiles: 30·5–68·5), representing a 53·4 % prevalence of vitamin D deficiency. 25(OH)D levels in the umbilcal cord blood (median: 50·0 nmol/l; 1st–3rd quartiles: 31·0–76·6) strongly correlated with mothers’ serum 25(OH)D (Spearman’s correlation ρ=0·79, P<0·001). Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that significant determinants of vitamin D deficiency in pregnant women were centre of study, country of origin, season of delivery and vitamin D supplement intake. Near-term BMI, skin colour, use of sunscreen and mothers’ education, although each not individually significant, collectively improved the ability of the model to explain vitamin D status. Low vitamin D levels were common in this sample of pregnant women and their newborns’ cord blood. Vitamin D supplement intake was the most actionable determinant of vitamin D status, suggesting that vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy should receive more attention in clinical practice.
THE INFORMAL ECONOMY OF CREDIT IN EARLY MODERN VENICE
Authors: SHAW JAMES E.
Published: January 2018

Evidence from the Piovego, the fraud magistracy of early modern Venice, offers a critical perspective on the documentary record of credit and the ways in which this was used in practice. Although it was formally illegal to charge interest on personal loans, a variety of legal fictions were employed to evade the ban. Such fictions significantly reduced the transparency and certainty of exchange, pushing personal loans into a world of semi-legality. This was a ‘baroque economy’, in which people were aware of the potential discrepancy between surface form and underlying substance, and private agreements might be contested on grounds of substantive fairness. The ‘hidden transcripts’ presented by litigants indicate that the formal record must be interpreted through a ‘thick description’ that considers its role as a resource in a broader process of negotiation. Far from being a ‘market’, characterized by price competition, choice, and transparency, the informal economy of credit was embedded in long-term power relationships. Rather than celebrating intermediaries such as brokers and notaries as facilitators of ‘market’ relations, we need to understand them as part of a hierarchical network of power and wealth, embedded in long-term relationships.
The Local and the Global: Neighborhoods, Workers and Associations in São Paulo (1945–1964)
Authors: Fontes Paulo
Published: January 2018

This article aims to analyze residents’ associations organized around specific working-class neighborhoods in São Paulo between the end of World War II and the Brazilian Military coup in 1964. It examines, in particular, the connections between neighborhood associations and labor union struggles. Based on the strong social networks and informal relationships created by workers, organizations like the Neighborhood Friends Societies (Sociedades Amigos de Bairro) were fundamental to the construction of political communities that had a powerful impact on electoral processes and on the formation of the state at the local level. Likewise, this article will show how, during that period, identities at the neighborhood level frequently developed in dialogue with processes of class formation, staking claim to a language of rights associated with the condition of being a worker and, simultaneously, a citizen. Finally, the piece suggests how analyses with such a localized scope, like those focused on specific working-class neighborhoods can intervene in debates concerning Global Labor History.
On the relativistic large-angle electron collision operator for runaway avalanches in plasmas
Authors: Embréus O. , Stahl A. , Fülöp T.
Published: January 2018

Large-angle Coulomb collisions lead to an avalanching generation of runaway electrons in a plasma. We present the first fully conservative large-angle collision operator, derived from the relativistic Boltzmann operator. The relation to previous models for large-angle collisions is investigated, and their validity assessed. We present a form of the generalized collision operator which is suitable for implementation in a numerical kinetic equation solver, and demonstrate the effect on the runaway-electron growth rate. Finally we consider the reverse avalanche effect, where runaways are slowed down by large-angle collisions, and show that the choice of operator is important if the electric field is close to the avalanche threshold.
Diet, nutrition and the ageing brain: current evidence and new directions
Authors: Moore Katie , Hughes Catherine F. , Ward Mary , Hoey Leane , McNulty Helene
Published: January 2018

Globally populations are ageing. By 2050, it is estimated that there will be two billion people aged 60 years or over, of which 131 million are projected to be affected by dementia, while depression is predicted to be the second leading cause of disability worldwide by 2020. Preventing or delaying the onset of these disorders should therefore be a public health priority. There is some evidence linking certain dietary patterns, particularly the Mediterranean diet, with a reduced risk of dementia and depression. Specific dietary components have also been investigated in relation to brain health, with emerging evidence supporting protective roles forn-3 PUFA, polyphenols, vitamin D and B-vitamins. At this time, the totality of evidence is strongest in support of a role for folate and the metabolically related B-vitamins (vitamin B12, vitamin B6and riboflavin) in slowing the progression of cognitive decline and possibly reducing the risk of depression in ageing. Future studies incorporating new technologies, such as MRI and magnetoencephalography, offer much promise in identifying effective nutrition interventions that could reduce the risk of cognitive and mental disorders. This review will explore the ageing brain and the emerging evidence linking diet and specific nutrients with cognitive function and depression in ageing, with the potential to develop strategies that could improve quality of life in our ageing population.
CAN LIBERTARIANS GET AWAY WITH FRAUD?
Authors: Ferguson Benjamin
Published: January 2018

In this paper I argue that libertarianism neither prohibits exchanges in which consent is gained through deceit, nor does it entail that such exchanges are morally invalid. However, contra James Child’s (1994) similar claim, that it is incapable of delivering these verdicts, I argue that libertarianscanclaim that exchanges involving deceitfully obtained consent are morally invalid by appealing to an external theory of moral permissibility.