bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Injectable, remoldable hydrogels with thermoresponsiveness, self-healing and cytocompatibility constructed via orthogonal assembly of well-defined star and linear polymers
Authors: Zhu Dong Yu , Hong Zhan Peng , Xue Yan Min , Chen Xin Jie , Zhang Lan Yue , Gao Liang , Wang Yu Xuan , Yang Chu Fen , Guo Jian Wei
Published: April 2019

Dual intelligent and multifunctional hydrogels constructed by host–guest orthogonal assembly of well-defined star and linear polymers.
Multifunctional Gd-based mesoporous silica nanotheranostic for anticancer drug delivery
Authors: Carniato Fabio , Alberti Diego , Lapadula Angelica , Martinelli Jonathan , Isidoro Ciro , Geninatti Crich Simonetta , Tei Lorenzo
Published: April 2019

A theranostic MRI nanoprobe based on mesoporous silica nanoparticles with attached stable Gd-complexes with high relaxivity, rhodamine dyes, PEG and cyclooctyne moieties was synthesized and loaded with mitoxantrone for bio-orthogonal targeted anticancer drug delivery.
A giant electrorheological fluid with a long lifetime and good thermal stability based on TiO2 inlaid with nanocarbons
Authors: Qiu Zhaohui , Shen Rong , Huang Jing , Lu Kunquan , Xiong Xiaomin
Published: April 2019

The bottleneck in the application of electrorheological (ER) fluids is the difficulty of simultaneously meeting both the performance and lifetime demands.
Dual control of the nanofriction of graphene
Authors: Lang Haojie , Peng Yitian , Shao Guowei , Zou Kun , Tao Guangming
Published: April 2019

A tunable nanofriction array of graphene on an insulating substrate was achieved via functionalization by introducing an electron releasing process to avoid electron saturation.
Effect of Curing Conditions on Physical Properties of Mortar Blended with Expansive Agent
Authors: Takuya Hoshina , Sudo Hiroyuki , Hashimoto Sinitirou , Date Sigeyuki
Published: April 2019

Assuming precast concrete using expansion material, we will confirm the influence of curing conditions on the basic physical properties of mortar with regard to the free expansion coefficient, constraint expansion coefficient and strength, using two types of expansive materials widely used in Japan . As a result, it was confirmed that the higher the curing temperature, the higher the strength regardless of the addition of the expansion material. In addition, it was confirmed that both the free expansion coefficient and the constrained expansion ratio had an effect irrespective of the curing temperature of the lime type expansion material.
Characterization of Sludge From Iron Ore Processing and Properties of Mortar Prepared by Full Replacement of Natural Silica Sand
Authors: Sičáková Alena , Kováč Marek
Published: April 2019

This paper focuses on the use of sludge, which is currently a landfilled sand-like material left over from the processing of iron ore (IOP), representing an environmental burden. The incorporation of the material into some building mixtures like mortar or concrete can bring both environmental and technical benefit through the improvement of some properties of final mixture. Through the realization of the experiment programme, the authors have contributed to the knowledge about IOP and have determined the impact of this material on the properties of mortar mixture. This material is characterized using chemical, mineralogical, and granulometric analysis and then applied as 100% replacement of silica sand in standard mortar mixture. Basic physical-mechanical parameters (water demand, flexural strength, compressive strength) were tested. For the strength characteristics, both the samples with IOP sludge and samples with standardized sand (reference sample) were subjected to testing for a long-term period (14, 28, 270, and 365 days). Moreover, the capillary moisture was measured for 28-day old samples. Mortar prepared with IOP sludge shows lower compressive strength compared to the reference mixture throughout the overall time development, although the values themselves are sufficient for practical application. The flexural strength was found to be even better. The performance of the IOP sludge can be deemed as promising for practical applications when used in cement mortar.
Application of the High Early Strength Type Expansive Agent to the Blast Furnace Slag Combination Concrete with GGBFS under Steam Curing
Authors: Enzaki Erica , Sakuma Takashi , Takeshita Eizou , Date Shigeyuki
Published: April 2019

In recent years, the use of blast furnace slag material is being focused as environmental loading reduction and sustainable construction. However, in general, autogeneours shrinkage of the concrete using much amount of GGBFS is large in compared to normal concrete, therefore risk of cracking should be cared. On the other hand, strength development speed of concrete at early stage will be decreasing as the dosage of GGBFS increases, even under steam curing condition. It can be considered these points will be significant disadvantage in both productivity and quality of precast concrete. So in this study, early strength type expansive agent and setting accelerator were used in combination. As a result, it was confirmed that compressive strength at early stage is obviously increased. And steam curing temperature can be reduced about 10 degrees, and also, 600×10-6 of restraint expansion was obtained.
Bioconcrete Development Using Calcite -Precipitating Bacteria Isolated From Different Sources in Jordan
Authors: Abudoleh Suha M. , Al Mahayreh Amal , Al Frejat Aya , Al Hulaisy Fatima , Hamdan Sara O.
Published: April 2019

Concrete is considered as the most widely used construction material in the world. However, concrete is exposed to cracks due to different factors like overloads, temperature, shrinkage, earthquakes and others. These cracks reduce the strength, the service life of the structure, and increase the permeability of the concrete. Thus, the importance of "self-healing concrete" is highlighted nowadays, with emphasis on a special type of concrete called bioconcrete, which is a concrete that has the ability to self-heal the microcracks that happen due to overloads. This ability comes from the bacteria used in the concrete mix which have special characteristics such as the ability to live in harsh conditions similar to those found in the concrete environment, in addition to their ability to precipitate calcite (calcium carbonate (CaCO3)), the sealing material in the cracks. This study aims to assess the performance of self-healing Bacillus mycoides incorporated into Portland cement mortar. This bacterium has been isolated from the soil of Fava beans in Jordan. Cracking of specimens was induced by load percent concept after 7 days of curing and tests were performed at 21 days of cracking. The testing scheme for the mortar included bacterial sporulation tests inside mortar specimens, acid fizz test and a compression test. Results demonstrated that self-healing bacteria is a promising technique in minimizing cracking. The rate of healing using bacteria was higher than the bacteria-free negative control.
The influence of reclaimed asphalt pavement in warm mix asphalt on asphalt concrete binder course with Retona Blend 55
Authors: Raudhah  , Sumabrata R. Jachrizal , Hadiwardoyo Sigit Pranowo
Published: April 2019

Reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) comprises removed pavement materials containing high-quality aggregates and asphalt which can be recycled as materials for new pavement construction. It is removed continually for reconstruction, resurfacing, and maintenance purposes, and if not recycled will become waste. This paper determines the influence of using different RAP percentages and asphalt content in warm mix asphalt on the Marshall test results for asphalt concrete binder course (AC-BC) using Retona Blend 55. The percentages of RAP are determined by analyzing the gradation of the existing aggregates in RAP and adding virgin aggregates so that it meets the standard gradation for AC-BC specified by the Ministry of Public Works and Housing. The RAP percentages in the asphalt mixes in this study are 35%, 45%, and 51.55% of total aggregates, while the asphalt contents are 5%, 6%, and 7% of the total mix. To determine the influence of RAP percentage and asphalt content, and to discover if there is any influence from the interaction between these two factors, the analysis is performed using a factorial design. The results of this study show that variation in RAP percentages in the mix has no significant influence on stability, flow, and Marshall quotient, but there is significant influence on void in mineral aggregates (VMA), void in mix (VIM), and void filled with asphalt (VFA). Correlations of 97.5%, 80%, and 95.1%, respectively show that increase in RAP percentage increases VMA and VIM and decreases VFA. The interaction between RAP percentage and asphalt content has no significant influence on Marshall test results.
Wear Mechanism of Multi-layer AlCrWN/AlCrWSiN Coatings on Cemented Carbide Tool Prepared by Arc Ion Plating in Dry Cutting of Sintered Steel
Authors: Wada Tadahiro , Hanyu Hiroyuki
Published: April 2019

To clarify the effectiveness of multi-layer AlCrWN/AlCrWSiN-coated cemented carbide tools, the wear progress was investigated in cutting sintered steel using three types of coated tool. Tool I had a mono-layer (Al60,Cr25,W15)N-coating film, Tool II had a mono-layer (Al53,Cr23,W14,Si10)N-coating film and Tool III had a multi-layer (Al60,Cr25,W15)N/(Al53,Cr23,W14,Si10)N-coating film. The following results were obtained: (1) The main tool failure of the three types of coated tools was flank wear within a maximum value of flank wear width of 0.2 mm. (2) The wear progress of Type III, which was a multi-layer coating system, was the slowest in cutting sintered steel.
Accounting for the Scale Factor in Determining the Compressed Concrete Strength of Concrete-Filled Steel Tube Elements
Authors: Chernyshova Elvira P. , Chernyshov Vladislav E.
Published: April 2019

The published experimental data on the influence of the concrete samples dimensions on their strength under axial compression had been analyzed in the article. The mechanism of this influence is revealed from the positions of strength statistical theories. The known dependences are given and a new formula is proposed for taking into account the scale factor in determining the strength of compressed concrete. An algorithm for calculating the strength of centrally compressed concrete-filled steel tube elements (CFSTE) with a circular cross-section taking into account the scale factor is shown.
Advanced composite structure combining Ultra high performance concrete with normal reinforced concrete
Authors: Wu Xiangguo
Published: April 2019

Ultra high performance concrete (UHPC), one of the newest cementitious composites, demonstrates superior ductility with high strength and durability, which has gained the attention of researchers and engineers since it was successfully developed. Considering its superior ductility and durability, UHPC is a good alternative material for forming a advanced composite structure with normal reinforced concrete (RC) or prestressed concrete. The material properties are critical for its application in composite structures, so in this chapter, material properties of UHPC, such as constitute raw materials, mechanical properties, durability and several constitutive relations from several standards are firstly introduced. The basic concepts of advanced UHPC-RC composite structures, such as UHPC-RC composite beam, composite column, composite wall, etc, are introduced finally.
Analysis of Vertical Dynamic Cross Interaction between Adjacent Footings for Railway Tracks through Soil
Authors: WANG Jue
Published: April 2019

An efficient semi-analytical method is presented for the vertical analysis of adjacent railway tracks considering the dynamic cross interaction (DCI) effect through the semi-infinite soil medium. The interfaces between soil and tracks are discretized into a series of strip elements to solve the unknown contact pressure influenced by DCI effect. The Green function for each element under uniform harmonic excitation is derived and calculated by the piecewise integration and Cauchy principal value integral. The vertical impedance matrix is finally obtained by the superposition method. The accuracy and the effectiveness in high frequency range are verified by the convergence study, as well as the comparison study with the rigorous results from the mix-boundary-value method. The influence of the soil properties and the tracks distance on the DCI effect are discussed in detail in the parameter studies. It is shown that the DCI effect increases with the decrease of the distance ratio S/L.
The Analysis of Pedestrian's Facility Level of Service at Pondok Cina Rail Station's Platform using PTV Viswalk
Authors: Heydemans Exa , Sumabrata R. Jachrizal
Published: April 2019

The public's enthusiasm for commuter lane (light train) in Jakarta is now quite high with the addition of the number of passengers every year. Along with the addition of the number of passengers, train stations must also be able to accommodate the number of passengers. Therefore, the authors conducted a study to determine the feasibility of the platform in Station Pondok Cina for accommodating the addition of the number of passengers, in this case pedestrian's level of service is a feasibility parameter of the station. The study was conducted by comparing the existing condition of St. Pondok Cina's platform with the future condition in coming years. Existing condition is learned by survey in the field and then processed manually for determining the pedestrian's level of service. The future condition is made in simulating model and processed by PTV Viswalk to get an overview in the coming years. Model parameters are estimated based on existing condition parameters and passenger targets. The results of this study show the existing station design will not be able to accommodate the number of passenger plans. Level of service Station Pondok Cina is bad enough and will not be able to accommodate the additional number of passengers later, therefore the design of the plan station needs to be realized to meet the demand of passengers so the pedestrian's level of service, which are influenced by the size of the pedestrian area and the number of incoming access, can be preferable.
Experimentelle Modelle für selektive Nerventransfers der
oberen Extremität: Modellbeschreibung und neurophysiologische
Effekte
Authors: Aman Martin , Sporer Matthias , Bergmeister Konstantin , Aszmann Oskar
Published: April 2019

Einleitung Nerventransfers werden in der rekonstruktiven Chirurgie
eingesetzt um denervierte Muskeln zeitnahe zu reinnervieren. Obwohl sie
zunehmend in der Klinik eingesetzt werden, sind die neurobiologischen Grundlagen
nur unzureichend erforscht. Essentiell ist hierfür ein realistisches Tiermodel
an der oberen Extremität, da Nerventransfers klinisch hauptsächlich hier
routinemäßig angewandt werden. Diese Arbeit stellt adulte und neonatale
Rattenmodelle vor, bei denen durch einen Nerventransfer des N. ulnaris die
Ellbogenflexion wiederhergestellt wurde.

Methoden Basierend auf anatomischen Studien in 10 adulten und 5 neonatalen
Sprague-Dawley Ratten wurde ein Modell kreiert bei dem der M. biceps brachii
durch einen Nerventransfer des N. ulnaris reinnerviert wird. Anschließend wurde
in 40 Ratten (30 adulte und 10 neonatale) das Caput laterale des M. biceps
mittels Transfer des N. ulnaris bzw. des R. profundus n. ulnaris (RPF)
reinnerviert und nach 12 Wochen Regenerationszeit hinsichtlich funktioneller
Parameter wie der Muskelkraft und des Muskelgewichtes evaluiert.

Ergebnisse Alle Ratten wiesen eine konstante neuronale Anatomie auf und
auch in Neonaten war der supermikrochirurgische Nerventransfer reproduzierbar.
Alle Nerventransfers reinnervierten den M. biceps brachii und konnten
hinsichtlich funktioneller Parameter evaluiert werden. Hier zeigte sich eine
Regeneration der Muskelkraft von 2,47 + 0,25 N bei einem Muskelgewicht von
313,8 + 0,25 mg in der Ulnaris-Transfer Gruppe. In der RPF-Transfer Gruppe lag
der Wert bei 1,96 + 0,65 N bzw. 226,7 + 0,65 mg und die neonatale Gruppe
erreichte 1,1 + 0,23 N Muskelkraft bei 85,5 + 0,23 mg Muskelgewicht. Die nativen
Kontrollen ergaben 2,78 + 0,24 N an Kraft bei 325,6 + 0,24 mg Muskelgewicht.

Diskussion Um der klinischen Translation gerecht zu werden, bedarf es
eines geeigneten Tiermodelles der oberen Extremität. Alle hier gezeigten Modelle
waren anatomisch konstant und mikrochirurgisch reproduzierbar. Es zeigte sich
eine erfolgreiche Regeneration in allen Gruppen nach den jeweiligen
Nerventransfers. Die Unterschiede zwischen den Gruppen lassen sich durch die
verschiedene Anzahl an Spenderaxonen erklären. Des Weiteren, scheint die
neuronale Plastizität des Neonaten einen Einfluss auf das Regenerationspotential
zu nehmen. Schlussfolgerung: Die hier gezeigten Modelle bilden eine Basis zur
Evaluation der Veränderungen von Nerventransfers auf allen Ebenen der
motorischen Einheit.
Essen und Trinken mit Spaß und Freude
Authors: Schlichting Helga , Damag Annette
Published: April 2019

Essen und Trinken, Verdauen und Ausscheiden bei Kindern und Jugendlichen mit
schweren Behinderungen sind eng mit ihrer physischen und psychischen Entwicklung
verbunden. Der folgende Beitrag zeigt Möglichkeiten auf, wie diese Kinder
pädagogisch-pflegerisch bei der Nahrungsaufnahme unterstützt werden können.
„Sie reden nicht nur, sondern tun auch was“
Authors: Henkel Anja
Published: April 2019

Neben diversen hauptamtlichen Beratungsangeboten gibt es viele freiwillige,
überwiegend weibliche Helfer, die für die Frühen Hilfen in die Familien gehen
und Unterstützung anbieten. Das unbürokratische Angebot kommt gut an und
erreicht auch Familien, die sonst nur schwer zu erreichen sind.
Distal Femoral Replacement for Periprosthetic Fractures around Total Knee Arthroplasty: When and How?
Authors: Khan Saad , Schmidt Andrew
Published: April 2019

Periprosthetic fractures around total knee arthroplasty have become more common with the increasing incidence of total knee arthroplasty. These fractures are challenging to treat, especially in older patients with poor bone stock. Although open reduction internal fixation remains the most common treatment, revision with distal femoral replacement has become popular in recent years. Careful evaluation and planning are required to have successful outcomes. We present a review of distal femoral replacement in periprosthetic fractures around the total knee arthroplasty, along with surgical technique, and pearls and pitfalls.
Electronic properties of atomic ribbons with spin-orbit couplings on different substrates
Authors: Kurzyna Marcin , Kwapiński Tomasz
Published: April 2019

Atomic ribbons and monoatomic chains on different substrates are proposed as spin-dependent electrical conductors with asymmetrical local density of states (DOS) and ferromagnetic occupancies along the chains. The tight-binding Hamiltonian and Green’s function techniques were used to analyze the electrical properties of both normal and topological systems with spin-orbit scattering. To make the system more realistic, electron leakage from atomic chains to various types of substrates is considered. We have shown that delocalized electrons in the substrate and spin-orbit interactions are responsible for asymmetry in the local DOS. The structure of DOS for spin-orbit nontopological chains is spin-dependent at both chain edges; however, in the middle of the chain, only paramagnetic solutions are observed. Additionally, we have found different periods of the local DOS oscillations along the chain in the presence of spin-flip and spin-orbit couplings. For topological chains, the edge nontrivial states split in the presence of spin-orbit scattering and spin-dependent Friedel oscillations appear along the whole topological chain. We have also found out-of-phase Friedel oscillations between neighboring chains along the atomic ribbon.
Numerical investigation on flapping hydrofoil for optimal propulsion performance using a very large eddy simulation method
Authors: Xiong Zhongying , Liu Xiaomin , Li Dian , Wang Yuanying
Published: April 2019

In nature, the locomotion and maneuvering force of fish with thunniform mode crucially originate from the flapping foil as a principal component to produce thrust. Aiming to investigate the thrust performance and hydromechanical efficiency of flapping hydrofoil, a very large eddy simulation (VLES) method is introduced into dynamic mesh technique to solve the unsteady flow past flapping hydrofoil. The method can broaden the simulation of complex separated flow along with excellent compromise of accuracy and computing resources. In addition, the feasibility and validation of the method are verified to be well fit for dynamic mesh technique. The optimal propulsion performance is explored through varying the Strouhal (St) number and maximum angle of attack (α0) in an incoming flow condition of Re = 40,000. The temporal evolution of the angle of attack has a significant impact on lateral force coefficient, moment coefficient and the structure of shedding corotating vortices in the wake for high St number. The α0 exerts evident effect on the leading-edge separation. With the increase of St, the low-pressure values of suction surface become greater and the low-pressure areas become wider, hence producing more vortex-augmented thrusts and longer active time. The highest efficiency is equipped with the higher growth rate of thrust coefficient and moderate wake vortex strength. Furthermore, the temporal evolution of angle of attack has little effect, as does the leading-edge separation. In reality, an insight about high efficiency combined with high thrust should be considered in order to arrive to well-behaved propulsion system.
Formation mechanism of growth twins in Mg–3Gd–0.6Zr alloy
Authors: Chen Qiaowang , Tang Aitao , Xu Tingyi , Ran Chunhua , Jiang Shan , Jing Xiaolong , Deng Ying , Jiang Zhongtao , Zhou Hua
Published: April 2019

A cast Mg–3Gd–0.6Zr alloy with microscale [Formula: see text] growth twins was designed successfully. After the alloy was annealed at 350°C for 1 h, the volume fraction of the growth twins was increased by approximately 120%. Gd solute atoms segregated on both sides of twin boundaries and facilitated their formation in the as–cast alloy. The formation mechanism of [Formula: see text] growth twins in the as–cast alloy was discussed in five aspects: the supersaturation of Gd solute atoms, the segregation ability of Gd, the composition of Gd, the nucleate sites of growth twins, and the total energy of the system. The growth twins elicited remarkable toughening effect but a moderate strengthening effect on the alloy.
The rise of microcredit ‘control fraud’ in post-apartheid South Africa: from state-enforced to market-driven exploitation of the black community
Authors: Bateman Milford
Published: April 2019

The end of apartheid in South Africa in the early 1990s did not see the envisaged end to the exploitation of the black South African population, but instead saw simply a shift from state-backed exploitation to market-driven exploitation. This trajectory is especially germane to the country’s microcredit industry, which has spectacularly and wilfully enriched a narrow white male elite while simultaneously helping to fragment and destroy the local rural and urban economies of the black poor. As this article demonstrates, a major aspect of this one-sided enrichment process has involved ‘control fraud’, the process whereby the CEO and senior management of a financial institution use their seniority to defraud customers, shareholders, the government and the general public as they go about maximising their own private short-term financial gains. Already a problem elsewhere in the global South, South Africa has thus joined the growing list of countries that have seen control fraud in the microcredit sector undermine and block progress towards more productive, sustainable and equitable local economies.
Longitudinal profiling of human blood transcriptome in healthy and lupus pregnancy
Authors: Hong Seunghee , Banchereau Romain , Maslow Bat-Sheva L. , Guerra Marta M. , Cardenas Jacob , Baisch Jeanine , Branch D. Ware , Porter T. Flint , Sawitzke Allen , Laskin Carl A. , Buyon Jill P. , Merrill Joan , Sammaritano Lisa R. , Petri Michelle , Gatewood Elizabeth , Cepika Alma-Martina , Ohouo Marina , Obermoser Gerlinde , Anguiano Esperanza , Kim Tae Whan , Nulsen John , Nehar-Belaid Djamel , Blankenship Derek , Turner Jacob , Banchereau Jacques , Salmon Jane E. , Pascual Virginia
Published: April 2019

Systemic lupus erythematosus carries an increased risk of pregnancy complications, including preeclampsia and fetal adverse outcomes. To identify the underlying molecular mechanisms, we longitudinally profiled the blood transcriptome of 92 lupus patients and 43 healthy women during pregnancy and postpartum and performed multicolor flow cytometry in a subset of them. We also profiled 25 healthy women undergoing assisted reproductive technology to monitor transcriptional changes around embryo implantation. Sustained down-regulation of multiple immune signatures, including interferon and plasma cells, was observed during healthy pregnancy. These changes appeared early after embryo implantation and were mirrored in uncomplicated lupus pregnancies. Patients with preeclampsia displayed early up-regulation of neutrophil signatures that correlated with expansion of immature neutrophils. Lupus pregnancies with fetal complications carried the highest interferon and plasma cell signatures as well as activated CD4+ T cell counts. Thus, blood immunomonitoring reveals that both healthy and uncomplicated lupus pregnancies exhibit early and sustained transcriptional modulation of lupus-related signatures, and a lack thereof associates with adverse outcomes.
Ensemble learning reveals dissimilarity between rare-earth transition-metal binary alloys with respect to the Curie temperature
Authors: Nguyen Duong-Nguyen , Pham Tien-Lam , Nguyen Viet-Cuong , Kino Hiori , Miyake Takashi , Dam Hieu-Chi
Published: April 2019

We propose a data-driven method to extract dissimilarity between materials, with respect to a given target physical property. The technique is based on an ensemble method with Kernel ridge regression as the predicting model; multiple random subset sampling of the materials is done to generate prediction models and the corresponding contributions of the reference training materials in detail. The distribution of the predicted values for each material can be approximated by a Gaussian mixture models. The reference training materials contributed to the prediction model that accurately predicts the physical property value of a specific material, are considered to be similar to that material, or vice versa. Evaluations using synthesized data demonstrate that the proposed method can effectively measure the dissimilarity between data instances. An application of the analysis method on the data of Curie temperature (

T

C

) of binary 3d transition metal- 4f rare-earth binary alloys also reveals meaningful results on the relations between the materials. The proposed method can be considered as a potential tool for obtaining a deeper understanding of the structure of data, with respect to a target property, in particular.
Profit Shifting and Industrial Heterogeneity
Authors: Barrios Salvador , d'Andria Diego
Published: April 2019

Base erosion and profit shifting undermines tax revenues collection and raises public discontent in times when the tax burden has increased significantly for households in most developed economies. In addition, new forms of profit shifting related to intangible investment have emerged rapidly along the traditional use of transfer pricing and debt shifting by multinational companies. In this article, using worldwide company level data for the period 2004–2013, we demonstrate that the sectoral differences in profit shifting are a serious concern from a welfare and policy perspectives. Sectors performing more profit shifting lower their average cost of capital and are thus able to attract more investment to the detriment of sectors less able to dodge taxes. We develop a multilevel model and provide indirect evidence of the welfare costs caused by profit shifting by estimating the cross-sectoral variance of semi-elasticity of declared profit. We also demonstrate that having a larger share of intangible assets is not per se related to more profit shifting and that it may point instead to cross-sectoral differences. Finally, we detect almost no financial shifting and find that the largest part of profit shifting is done by means of transfer pricing.
Extubation on the operating table in patients with right ventricular pressure overload undergoing biventricular repair†
Authors: Nawrocki Pawel , Wisniewski Konrad , Schmidt Christoph , Bruenen Andreas , Debus Volker , Malec Edward , Januszewska Katarzyna
Published: April 2019

OBJECTIVES

Right ventricular pressure overload, which can result in restrictive right ventricular physiology, predicts slow recovery after biventricular repair of congenital heart defects. The goal of the study was to assess how extubation in the operating room influences the postoperative course in these patients.

METHODS

Between January 2013 and June 2017, a total of 65 children [median age 0.96 (0.13–9.47) years; median weight 8 (3.05–25.8) kg] with right ventricular pressure overload underwent an intracardiac correction. The most common malformations were tetralogy of Fallot (n = 34) and double outlet right ventricle with pulmonary stenosis (n = 11). The patients were divided into 2 groups: the first (n = 36) comprised late extubated (LE) and the second (n = 29), early extubated (EE) children, immediately after chest closure in the operating room. Preoperative, perioperative and postoperative records were analysed retrospectively.

RESULTS

Children who had EE had a lower heart rate (EE 124.2 vs LE 133.6 bpm; P = 0.03), higher arterial blood pressure (systolic: EE 87.9 ± 9.35 vs LE 81.4 ± 12.0 mmHg; P = 0.029; diastolic: EE 51.1 ± 6.5 vs LE 45.9 ± 6.64 mmHg; P = 0.003), lower central venous pressure (EE 8.6 ± 1.89 mmHg vs LE 9.9 ± 2.42 mmHg; P = 0.03), fewer pleural effusions in the first 6 postoperative days (EE 1.38 ml/kg/day vs LE 5.98 ml/kg/day; P = 0.009), shorter time of dopamine support ≥3 μg/kg (EE 7.29 ± 12.26 h vs LE 34.78 ± 38.05 h, P < 0.001), shorter stays in the intensive care unit (EE 2.7 ± 2.67 vs LE 5.0 ± 4.77 days, P = 0.001) and hospital (EE 11.8 ± 4.79 vs LE 15.5 ± 7.8 days; P = 0.022).

CONCLUSIONS

Extubation in the operating room of children with right ventricular pressure overload undergoing biventricular correction is feasible and safe and has a beneficial effect on the postoperative course.
Association Between Amyloid-β, Small-vessel Disease, and Neurodegeneration Biomarker Positivity, and Progression to Mild Cognitive Impairment in Cognitively Normal Individuals
Authors: Nadkarni Neelesh K , Tudorascu Dana , Campbell Elizabeth , Snitz Beth E , Cohen Annie D , Halligan Edye , Mathis Chester A , Aizenstein Howard J , Klunk William E
Published: April 2019

Background: We estimated the prevalence and incidence of amyloid-β deposition (A), small-vessel disease (V), and neurodegeneration (N) biomarker positivity in community-dwelling cognitively normal individuals (CN). We determined the longitudinal association between the respective biomarker indices with progression to all-cause mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and its amnestic and nonamnestic subtypes.

Methods: CN participants, recruited by advertising, underwent brain [C-11]Pittsburgh Compound-B (PiB)-positron emission tomography (PET), magnetic resonance imaging, and [F-18]fluoro-2-deoxy-glucose (FDG)-PET, and were designated as having high or low amyloid-β (A+/A−), greater or lower white matter hyperintensities burden (V+/V−) and diminished or normal cortical glucose metabolism (N+/N−). MCI was adjudicated using clinical assessments. We examined the association between A, V, and N biomarker positivity at study baseline and endpoint, with progression to MCI using linear regression, Cox proportional hazards and Kaplan–Meier analyses adjusted for age and APOE-ε4 carrier status.

Results: In 98 CN individuals (average age 74 years, 65% female), A+, V+, and N+ prevalence was 26%, 33%, and 8%, respectively. At study endpoint (median: 5.5 years), an A+, but not a V+ or N+ scan, was associated with higher odds of all-cause MCI (Chi-square = 3.9, p = .048, odds ratio, 95% confidence interval = 2.6 [1.01–6.8]). Baseline A+, V+, or N+ were not associated with all-cause MCI, however, baseline A+ (p = .018) and A+N+ (p = .049), and endpoint A+N+ (p = .025) were associated with time to progression to amnestic, not nonamnestic, MCI.

Conclusion: Longitudinal assessments clarify the association between amyloid-β and progression to all-cause MCI in CN individuals. The association between biomarker positivity indices of amyloid-β and neurodegeneration, and amnestic MCI reflects the underlying pathology involved in the progression to prodromal Alzheimer’s disease.
Association Between Baseline Glycemic Markers (HbA1c) and 8-Year Trajectories of Functional Disability
Authors: Mutambudzi Miriam , Díaz-Venegas Carlos , Menon Sonia
Published: April 2019

Background

This study assessed whether baseline (i) HbA1c (low [<5.7%], intermediate [5.7%–6.4%], and high [≥6.5%]) and (ii) glycemic control (7% HbA1c cutoff) in participants with self-reported diabetes were associated with differential 8-year functional disability trajectories.

Methods

We used data from the 2006–2014 waves of the Health and Retirement Study for adults aged 50 years and older. Latent class mixture modeling was used to identify distinct functional disability trajectory classes. Multinomial logistic regression analysis examined the association between the newly constructed trajectories and baseline HbA1c levels, and glycemic control, respectively.

Results

All participants (N = 5,966) were classified into four functional disability trajectory classes (no disability, low disability, low-increasing, and high-increasing). Participants with elevated HbA1c were at greater risk of being classified into the high-increasing (relative risk ratios = 1.63, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.25–2.11) trajectory class. Results showed significant effect modification by age and race. Three functional disability trajectories (no disability, low-increasing, and high-increasing) were identified for participants with self-reported diabetes (n = 1,119). There was no significant association between glycemic control in adults with self-reported diabetes and functional disability trajectory classes.

Conclusions

Participants with intermediate HbA1c and elevated HbA1c were more likely to be classified into the trajectories with progressing disability over the study period. More research is needed to better understand the association between glycemic markers and functional disability trajectories. Such research may provide insights into improvements for clinical care, self-management, and public health interventions for both conditions.
Haemangioendothelioma: a disease with surgical options from robotic surgery to open superior vena cava replacement
Authors: Cosgun Tugba , Kaba Erkan , Ayalp Kemal , Elbegi Ipek Coban , Toker Alper
Published: April 2019

Epithelioid haemangioendothelioma is a malignant tumour of vascular origin that can occur in the mediastinum. Operative treatment techniques may vary depending on the localization. Our goal was to focus on different surgical techniques, ranging from simple stapling of the vascular structure to replacement of the superior vena cava.
Scale Thickness Predicts Skin Puncture-Force Resistance in Three Pleuronectiform Fishes
Authors: Minicozzi M R , Perez J , Kimball D S , Gibb A C
Published: April 2019

Synopsis

In fishes, the skin and scales provide a physical barrier to the external environment and must withstand direct physical insult from biotic and abiotic features of the habitat. Flatfishes likely rely heavily on their scales for physical defense because they rest directly on the substrate. Using a flatfish model, we asked: what are the effects of scale type and scale morphology on puncture force resistance? We also asked: are there morphological and functional differences between the eyed and blind sides in flatfishes and do the morphological and functional properties of scales vary with organism size? Using a large size range of three species of Pleuronectid flatfish (Isopsetta isolepis, n = 10; Parophrys vetulus, n = 10; and Platichthys stellatus, n = 12), we measured the force required to puncture the integument using a sample of skin+scales taken from the eyed and blind side of each individual. We also measured the diameter, area, and thickness of the scales of each individual. Scaling relationships (body length vs. variable of interest) were derived for each species and compared with a priori expectations of geometric similarity. We found no relationship between scale type and puncture resistance and no differences in morphological parameters or puncture resistance between the eyed and blind side within a given species. These flatfish species do vary in their ability to withstand puncture forces; however, once scale thickness is taken into account, species differences disappear. Thus, the ability of a flatfish to withstand mechanical insult from puncture-forces varies depending on the thickness of the scale.
GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT SYMPOSIUM: STEM AND PROGENITOR CELLS IN ANIMAL GROWTH: Long noncoding RNAs in adipogenesis and adipose development of meat animals12
Authors: Wei Shengjuan , Li Anning , Zhang Lifan , Du Min
Published: April 2019

Sequencing technology, especially next-generation RNA sequencing, has greatly facilitated the identification and annotation of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs). In mammals, a large number of lncRNAs have been identified, which regulate various biological processes. An increasing number of lncRNAs have been identified which could function as key regulators of adipogenesis (adipocyte formation), a key step of the development of adipose tissue. Because proper adipose tissue development is a key factor affecting animal growth efficiency, lean/fat ratio, and meat quality, summarizing the roles and recent advances of lncRNAs in adipogenesis is needed in order to develop strategies to effectively manage fat deposition. In this review, we updated lncRNAs contributed to the regulation of adipogenesis, focusing on their roles in fat development of farm animals.
Development and Validation of an Analytical Method for Quantitation of Sulfolane in Rat and Mouse Plasma by GC–MS
Authors: Silinski Melanie A Rehder , Uenoyama Teruyo , Cooper Stephen D , Fernando Reshan A , Robinson Veronica G , Waidyanatha Suramya
Published: April 2019

Sulfolane is an industrial solvent commonly used for extraction of aromatic hydrocarbons in the oil refining process, as well in the purification of natural gas. Its wide use and high solubility in water has led to contamination of groundwater. The objective of this work was to develop and validate an analytical method to quantitate sulfolane in rodent plasma in support of the National Toxicology Program toxicology and toxicokinetic studies of sulfolane. The method uses extraction of plasma with ethyl acetate and analysis by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry with electron ionization. The method was validated in male Sprague Dawley (SD) rat plasma over the concentration range of 20–100,000 ng/mL. The method was linear (r ≥ 0.99), accurate (mean relative error (RE) ≤ ±5.1%) and precise (relative standard deviation (RSD) ≤ 2.9%). The absolute recovery was ≥74%. The limit of detection was 0.516 ng/mL. Standards as high as ~2.5 mg/mL could be successfully diluted into the calibration range (mean %RE ≤ ±4.5; %RSD ≤ 4.6). Extracted samples were stable for at least 3 days at ambient and refrigerated temperatures, and freeze/thaw stability in matrix was demonstrated after three cycles over 3 days (calculated concentrations within 90.8–102% of Day 0 concentrations). Sulfolane was stable in frozen plasma for at least 75 days at −80°C (calculated concentrations within 93.0–98.1% of Day 0 concentrations). Matrix evaluation was performed for sulfolane in female SD rat plasma and male and female B6C3F1 mouse plasma (mean %RE ≤ ±4.9; %RSD ≤ 3.3). These data demonstrate that the method is suitable for determination of sulfolane in rodent plasma.
Sampling Methods for Adventive Trissolcus japonicus (Hymenoptera: Scelionidae) in a Wild Tree Host of Halyomorpha halys (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae)
Authors: Quinn N F , Talamas E J , Leskey T C , Bergh J C
Published: April 2019

Halyomorpha halys (Stål) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) is an invasive pest that has established in much of the United States. Adventive populations of an effective Asian egg parasitoid of H. halys, Trissolcus japonicus (Ashmead) (Hymenoptera: Scelionidae), have been detected in several states, including Virginia, and its geographic range is expanding. Documenting changes in its distribution and abundance have thus become key research priorities. For these specific purposes, surveillance of T. japonicus over large geographic areas using sentinel H. halys egg masses may not be optimally efficient, and examination of alternative sampling tactics is warranted. In 2016, sentinel H. halys egg masses were deployed as vertical transects in the canopy of female Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle (Sapindales: Simaroubaceae) in Virginia. A brief follow-up study in 2016 using yellow sticky traps deployed in the same trees yielded captures of T. japonicus, leading to a comparison of vertical transects of sentinel eggs and yellow sticky traps in 2017. Both methods yielded T. japonicus detections only in the middle and upper tree canopies, whereas other known H. halys parasitoids were detected in the lower, middle, or upper canopies. Based on this information, a method for deploying yellow sticky traps in the middle canopy of H. halys host trees was assessed in 2017, yielding T. japonicus captures. A comparison of estimated time inputs revealed that traps were more efficient than sentinel eggs in this regard. Results are discussed in relation to the utility of each sampling method to address specific questions about the range expansion and ecology of T. japonicus.
Adverse Inferences and Penalty Default Rules in International Investment Arbitration: A Policy Approach to the Production of Evidence
Authors: Florou Aikaterini
Published: April 2019

Investor-state dispute settlement relies heavily on the production of evidence. Evidence is certainly a necessary condition for a fair trial, but is it sufficient? Instances of ‘guerrilla tactics’ and non-substantiated claims are increasingly common. In a world of costly litigation, the availability of appropriate and reliable evidence is crucial for avoiding accusations of ideologically-driven decisions and achieving a ‘fair and equitable’ resolution of a dispute. Against this background, the present article uses an interdisciplinary analysis drawn from contract theory and transaction cost economics to explore the potential of two evidentiary tools for the disclosure of material information: adverse inferences and penalty default rules. The article shows that penalty default rules can be a valuable complement to adverse inferences, as they allow for the strategic interpretation of inherently incomplete treaty standards, thus attaching concrete legal consequences to the denial of a party to disclose material evidence to the tribunal.
Introduction to Sociocultural Psychiatry
Authors: Trinh Nhi-Ha T. , Cheung Chun-Yi Joey , Chen Justin A.
Published: April 2019

The shifting demographics of the U.S. population has made the impact of sociocultural factors on patient diagnosis and treatment an increasingly relevant and meaningful topic. As the United States becomes a “majority minority” nation, with no racial/ethnic group having greater than a 50% share of the country’s total population, clinicians will need to better understand the phenomenology and treatment of mental health disorders among diverse populations. This imperative becomes all the more urgent in light of ongoing and persistent disparities in mental health diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes among racial and ethnic groups. In addition, clinicians must recognize that the importance of a nuanced sociocultural understanding is not exclusive to racial and ethnic minorities, but also applies to a variety of other deeply held personal characteristics, including for example, one’s gender, sexuality, and religious/spiritual orientation. A shift from cultural competence to cultural humility is needed to break down barriers between patients and providers and foster deeper understanding, especially in the context of traditional power differentials within health care that have tended to minimize the importance of the patient’s subjective experience. This textbook, and the curriculum on which it is based, represent an endeavor to start these conversations that are so sorely needed in mental health.
Global Psychiatric Epidemiology
Authors: Prom Maria C. , Tsai Alexander C.
Published: April 2019

This chapter offers an introduction to and discussion of the basic principles, concepts, and challenges of global psychiatric epidemiology, including the classification of mental illness, cultural concepts of distress, and the current understanding of global epidemiology and its limitations. The authors discuss how practitioners can use this information to improve their awareness of how their personal backgrounds and professional training impact their classification, understanding, and treatment of mental illness, and how they can take actions toward improving their cultural competence and ultimately improving patient relationships and care management. This discussion focuses primarily on the challenge of understanding global epidemiology through the lens of biomedical diagnostic classification systems, and on the importance of understanding how culture and society affect our knowledge of and approach to the diagnosis and treatment of illness.
Religion and Spirituality in Psychiatric Care
Authors: O’Neill Siobhan M. , Ding Jiaying , Aragam Gowri G.
Published: April 2019

Religion and spirituality are important dimensions of human experience, dimensions that many patients would like to discuss with physicians in their medical and psychiatric care. Data support the benefits of such discussions, but few physicians routinely engage patients. Lack of time, experience, and training are cited as the main barriers. This chapter summarizes the rationale for including exploration of religious and spiritual issues in psychiatric care. Including the spiritual dimension of patients’ lives and understanding their religious beliefs and practices increases our potential to be of greater service to our patients, to grow ourselves, to provide better care, and to achieve better outcomes. In this chapter we address the barriers and describe an experiential training seminar for psychiatry residents as one of the solutions.