bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantification of Maillard reaction products in animal feed
Authors: Hofmann Thomas , Engling Anne Christin , Martens Siriwan , Steinhöfel Olaf , Henle Thomas
Published: November 2019

Individual Maillard reaction products (MRPs), namely furosine, which is formed from Amadori product of lysine during acid hydrolysis, as well as N-ε-(carboxymethyl)lysine (CML), pyrraline and the arginine derivative MG-H1 (methylglyoxal-derived hydroimidazolone 1) were quantified in 78 samples of animal feed, belonging to 17 different feed types. The concentrations of the MRPs were dependent on the heat treatment during processing. Within similar feed types, significant differences in concentrations could be observed. MRPs can be suitable indicators to evaluate the impact of technological processing on the nutritional quality of animal feed.
Why Z-drugs are used even if doctors and nurses feel unable to judge their benefits and risks—a hospital survey
Authors: Heinemann Stephanie , Brockmöller Jürgen , Hagmayer York , Himmel Wolfgang
Published: November 2019

Background

Many patients receive Z-drugs for hospital-associated sleep problems, in spite of well-known risks. The aim of this study was to learn more about the attractiveness of Z-drugs, seen from the doctors’ and nurses’ perspective.

Methods

Using a standardized questionnaire, doctors (63/116) and nurses (73/243) in a German general hospital were surveyed about the risks and benefits of Z-drugs, compared with benzodiazepines.

Result

“Reduced time to get to sleep” was perceived by doctors (51%) and nurses (53%) to be a strong benefit of Z-drugs; “confusion” and “falls” were perceived by ca. 10% of doctors and ca. 15% of nurses to be a frequent problem. Compared with benzodiazepines, respondents more often answered “unable to judge” for Z-drugs; e.g. for doctors, 18% (benzodiazepines) vs. 45% (Z-drugs) were unable to judge “improved daytime functioning” and 12% (benzodiazepines) vs. 37% (Z-drugs) were unable to judge “falls.”

Conclusion

Z-drugs seem to be attractive because experiential knowledge overemphasizes their benefits and fails to take risks such as drug-related falls and confusion into account. Difficulties to judge a drug’s risk-benefit ratio do not prevent doctors and nurses from using them. Interventions for reducing Z-drug usage should incorporate local quality assurance data about relevant patient risks.
Evaluation of the efficacy of Lactobacillus plantarum HEAL9 and Lactobacillus paracasei 8700:2 on aspects of common cold infections in children attending day care: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study
Authors: Lazou Ahrén Irini , Berggren Anna , Teixeira Cristina , Martinsson Niskanen Titti , Larsson Niklas
Published: November 2019

Background

The combination of Lactobacillus plantarum HEAL9 and Lactobacillus paracasei 8700:2 (commercially available as Probi Defendum®) has previously been reported to reduce the incidence, duration and severity of naturally acquired common colds in adults. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the impact of Probi Defendum® on aspects of common cold in healthy children 1–6 years of age attending day care.

Methods

A total of 131 children, out of the planned 320, were recruited into the study during 1 common cold season and randomised to consume once daily either 109 CFU (colony forming units) of the probiotic product or placebo. Due to unforeseen reasons, the recruitment of more children did not continue beyond the first cold season.

Results

There were 106 children that completed the study out of the 131 randomised. Daily consumption of the probiotic product for a period of 3 months significantly reduced the severity of the symptom “nasal congestion/runny nose” with a mean severity score for the whole study period of 7.5 ± 9.7 in the probiotic group and 13.9 ± 15.2 in the placebo (p < 0.05). Moreover, significantly less concomitant medication was used in the probiotic group. When the data were projected to a larger population corresponding to the originally estimated sample size, the results were in favour of the probiotic group regarding the reduced absence from day care (p < 0.05), reduced mean total severity per day in the reported episodes (p < 0.05) and reduced severity of the symptom “crying more than usual” (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Intake of Probi Defendum® once daily for a period of 3 months was beneficial to children and reduced the severity of common colds.
Relationship between bullet diameter and bullet defect diameter in human calvariums
Authors: Kerkhoff W. , Mattijssen E. J. A. T. , Zwanenburg E. A. , Oostra R. J.
Published: November 2019

Existing literature on the relationship between bullet diameter and bullet defect diameter in the human calvarium is summarized and discussed. The hypothesis, derived from the literature, that bullet deformation influences bullet defect diameter was studied in a small controlled experiment. The mean defect size caused by non-deforming projectiles was found to be smaller than the mean defect size caused by deforming projectiles of equal original mass and size. The p value of the difference between the two means, measured in two different ways, was found to be 0.002 for both in a Mann–Whitney U test and was significant if the confidence level is set at 5%.
Physiological functions of urea transporter B
Authors: Yu Lanying , Liu Tiantian , Fu Shuang , Li Li , Meng Xiaoping , Su Xin , Xie Zhanfeng , Ren Jiayan , Meng Yan , Lv Xuejiao , Du Yanwei
Published: November 2019

Urea transporters (UTs) are membrane proteins in the urea transporter protein A (UT-A) and urea transporter protein B (UT-B) families. UT-B is mainly expressed in endothelial cell membrane of the renal medulla and in other tissues, including the brain, heart, pancreas, colon, bladder, bone marrow, and cochlea. UT-B is responsible for the maintenance of urea concentration, male reproductive function, blood pressure, bone metabolism, and brain astrocyte and cardiac functions. Its deficiency and dysfunction contribute to the pathogenesis of many diseases. Actually, UT-B deficiency increases the sensitivity of bladder epithelial cells to apoptosis triggers in mice and UT-B-null mice develop II-III atrioventricular block and depression. The expression of UT-B in the rumen of cow and sheep may participate in digestive function. However, there is no systemic review to discuss the UT-B functions. Here, we update research approaches to understanding the functions of UT-B.
Prevention of transmission of Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato and Anaplasma phagocytophilum by Ixodes spp. ticks to dogs treated with the Seresto® collar (imidacloprid 10% + flumethrin 4.5%)
Authors: Krämer Friederike , Hüsken Ricarda , Krüdewagen Eva Maria , Deuster Katrin , Blagburn Byron , Straubinger Reinhard K. , Butler Jamie , Fingerle Volker , Charles Sam , Settje Terry , Schunack Bettina , Stanneck Dorothee
Published: November 2019

The capability of imidacloprid 10% + flumethrin 4.5% (Seresto®) collars to prevent transmission ofBorrelia burgdorferisensu lato (Bbsl) andAnaplasma phagocytophilum(Ap) by naturally infected ticks was evaluated in two studies with 44 dogs. In each study, one group served as non-treated control, whereas the other groups were treated with the Seresto® collar. All dogs were exposed to naturallyBbsl- andAp-infected hard ticks (Ixodes ricinus,Ixodes scapularis). In study 1, tick infestation was performed on study day (SD) 63 (2 months post-treatment [p.t.]); in study 2, it was performed on SD 32 (one month p.t.) respectively SD 219 (seven months p.t.). In situ tick counts were performed 2 days after infestation. Tick counts and removals followed 6 (study 1) or 5 days (study 2) later. Blood sampling was performed for the detection of specificBbsl andApantibodies and, in study 1, for the documentation ofApDNA by PCR. Skin biopsies were examined forBbsl by PCR and culture (only study 1). The efficacy againstIxodesspp. was 100% at all time points. In study 1, two of six non-treated dogs became infected withBbsl, and four of six tested positive forAp; none of the treated dogs tested positive forBbsl orAp. In study 2, ten of ten non-treated dogs became infected withBbsl andAp; none of the treated dogs tested positive forBbsl orAp; 100% acaricidal efficacy was shown in both studies. Transmission ofBbsl andApwas successfully blocked for up to 7 months.
Measuring vincristine-induced peripheral neuropathy in children with cancer: validation of the Dutch pediatric–modified Total Neuropathy Score
Authors: Schouten S. M. , van de Velde M. E. , Kaspers G. J. L. , Mokkink L. B. , van der Sluis I. M. , van den Bos C. , Hartman A. , Abbink F. C. H. , van den Berg M. H.
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The aims were to evaluate the construct validity and reliability of the Dutch version of the pediatric-modified Total Neuropathy Score (ped-mTNS) for assessing vincristine-induced peripheral neuropathy (VIPN) in Dutch pediatric oncology patients aged 5–18 years.

Methods

Construct validity (primary aim) of the ped-mTNS was determined by testing hypotheses about expected correlation between scores of the ped-mTNS (range: 0–32) and the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) (range: 0–18) for patients and healthy controls and by comparing patients and controls regarding their total ped-mTNS scores and the proportion of children identified with VIPN. Inter-rater and intra-rater reliability and measurement error (secondary aims) were assessed in a subgroup of study participants.

Results

Among the 112 children (56 patients and 56 age- and gender-matched healthy controls) evaluated, correlation between CTCAE and ped-mTNS scores was as expected (moderate (r = 0.60)). Moreover, as expected, patients had significantly higher ped-mTNS scores and more frequent symptoms of VIPN compared with controls (both p < .001). Reliability as measured within the intra-rater group (n = 10) (intra-class correlation coefficient (ICCagreement) = 0.64, standard error of measurement (SEMagreement) = 2.92, and smallest detectable change (SDCagreement) = 8.1) and within the inter-rater subgroup (n = 10) (ICCagreement = 0.63, SEMagreement = 3.7, and SDCagreement = 10.26) indicates insufficient reliability.

Conclusion

The Dutch version of the ped-mTNS appears to have good construct validity for assessing VIPN in a Dutch pediatric oncology population, whereas reliability appears to be insufficient and measurement error high. To improve standardization of VIPN assessment in children, future research aimed at evaluating and further optimizing the psychometric characteristics of the ped-mTNS is needed.
Revision surgery in thoracic disc herniation
Authors: Dützmann Stephan , Rose Roli , Rosenthal Daniel
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Surgical treatment failures or strategies for the reoperation of residual thoracic disc herniations are sparsely discussed. We investigated factors that led to incomplete disc removal and recommend reoperation strategies.

Methods

As a referral centre for thoracic disc disease, we reviewed retrospectively the clinical records and imaging studies before and after the treatment of patients who were sent to us for revision surgery for thoracic disc herniation from 2013 to 2018.

Results

A total of 456 patients were treated from 2013 to 2018 at our institution. Twenty-one patients had undergone previously thoracic discectomy at an outside facility and harboured residual, incompletely excised and symptomatic herniated thoracic discs. In 12 patients (57%), the initial symptoms that led to their primary operation were improved after the first surgery, but recurred after a mean of 2.8 years. In seven patients (33%) they remained stable, and in two cases they were worse. All patients were treated via all dorsal approaches. In all 21 cases, the initial excision was incomplete regarding medullar decompression. All of the discs were removed completely in a single revision procedure. After mean follow-up of 24 months (range 12–57 months), clinical neurological improvement was demonstrated in seven patients, while three patients suffered a worsening and 11 patients remained stable.

Conclusion

Our data suggest that pure dorsal decompression provides a short relief of the symptoms caused by spinal cord compression. Progressive myelopathy (probably due to mechanical and vascular deficits) and scar formation may cause worsening of symptoms.

Graphic abstract

These slides can be retrieved under Electronic Supplementary Material.
Value chain climate resilience and adaptive capacity in micro, small and medium agribusiness in Jamaica: a network approach
Authors: Canevari-Luzardo Laura M.
Published: November 2019

In advancing relational understandings of resilience and adaptive capacity, this paper explores how business networks influence value chain climate resilience and the ability of small businesses to adapt to climate change. The relationship between value chain network attributes (i.e. connectivity and an actor’s centrality) and indicators of value chain resilience (e.g. information sharing, flexibility and redundancy) is investigated through the analysis of qualitative data derived from field interviews and from the quantitative assessment of network metrics characterising information, financial and material flows of three agricultural value chains in Jamaica. The study illustrates how network analysis offers a systematic approach for understanding value chain resilience and the adaptive capacity of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and supports strategy development in business value chains. The study concludes that mixed-methods networked approaches provide valid methods for exploring a relational understanding of climate resilience in value chains, opening up new research opportunities for scholars interested in private sector climate adaptation.
Correction to: Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic analysis of fulvestrant in preclinical models of breast cancer to assess the importance of its estrogen receptor-α degrader activity in antitumor efficacy
Authors: Wardell Suzanne E. , Yllanes Alexander P. , Chao Christina A. , Bae Yeeun , Andreano Kaitlyn J. , Desautels Taylor K. , Heetderks Kendall A. , Blitzer Jeremy T. , Norris John D. , McDonnell Donald P.
Published: November 2019

The article Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic analysis of fulvestrant in preclinical models of breast cancer to assess the importance of its estrogen receptor-α degrader activity in antitumor efficacy, written by Suzanne E. Wardell, Alexander P. Yllanes, Christina A. Chao, Yeeun Bae, Kaitlyn J. Andreano, Taylor K. Desautels, Kendall A. Heetderks, Jeremy T. Blitzer, John D. Norris, Donald P. McDonnell, was originally published electronically on the publisher’s internet portal on September 27, 2019 without open access. With the author(s)’ decision to opt for Open Choice the copyright of the article changed on November 16, 2019 to © The Author(s) 2019 and the article is forthwith distributed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits use, sharing, adaptation, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, as long as you give appropriate credit to the original author(s) and the source, provide a link to the Creative Commons licence, and indicate if changes were made. The original article has been corrected.
Selenium and mercury in the hair of raccoons (Procyon lotor) and European wildcats (Felis s. silvestris) from Germany and Luxembourg
Authors: Kosik-Bogacka Danuta , Osten-Sacken Natalia , Łanocha-Arendarczyk Natalia , Kot Karolina , Pilarczyk Bogumiła , Tomza-Marciniak Agnieszka , Podlasińska Joanna , Chmielarz Mateusz , Heddergott Mike , Frantz Alain C. , Steinbach Peter
Published: November 2019

This study examined the concentration of total mercury (THg) and selenium (Se), as well as the molar ratio of Se:THg in hair samples of terrestrial animals. THg and Se concentrations were measured from the hair of raccoons (Procyon lotor) and European wildcats (Felis s. silvestris) from Germany and Luxembourg. Median THg concentrations in hair from raccoons and wildcats were 0.369 and 0.273 mg kg−1dry weight (dw), respectively. Se concentrations were higher in the hair of raccoons than of wildcats (0.851 and 0.641 mg kg−1dw, respectively). Total mercury concentration in hair of raccoons from Luxembourg was almost 5× higher that found in hair of raccoons from Germany; however, Se concentration was similar. Thus, molar ratio of Se:THg was ~4× higher in the hair of raccoons from Germany than those from Luxembourg. Significant negative correlation was found between THg concentration and Se:THg molar ratio in both wildcats and raccoons.
Internalism, Externalism, and the KK Principle
Authors: Bird Alexander , Pettigrew Richard
Published: November 2019

This paper examines the relationship between the KK principle and the epistemological theses of externalism and internalism. In particular we examine arguments from Okasha (Analysis 73(1):80–86, 2013) and Greco (J Philos 111(4):169–197, 2014) which deny that we can derive the denial of the KK principle from externalism.
Pericentric inversion (Inv) 9 variant—reproductive risk factor or benign finding?
Authors: Merrion Katrina , Maisenbacher Melissa
Published: November 2019

Purpose

To report the unbalanced chromosome rearrangement rate and overall aneuploidy rate in day 5/6 embryos from a series of patients who underwent in vitro fertilization (IVF) with preimplantation genetic testing for structural rearrangements (PGT-SR) for the pericentric inversion 9 variant, inv(9)(p11q13) or inv(9)(p12q13), with concurrent 24 chromosome preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A).

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort analysis. IVF cycles and embryo biopsies were performed by referring clinics. Fifty-two trophectoderm biopsy samples from seven couples were sent to a single lab for PGT-SR for an inversion 9 variant with concurrent 24 chromosome PGT-A using single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) microarrays with bioinformatics.

Results

The unbalanced rearrangement rate for this embryo cohort was 0/52 (0.0%); mean maternal age per embryo was 33.3 years (range 21–39 years). The overall euploid rate was 61.5% and aneuploidy rate was 38.5%.

Conclusions

Chromosome 9 pericentric inversions did not result in unbalanced structural rearrangements in day 5/6 embryo samples, supporting that this population variant is not associated with increased reproductive risks.
Lessons learnt from a large-scale curriculum reform: The strategies to enhance development work and reduce reform-related stress
Authors: Tikkanen Lotta , Pyhältö Kirsi , Pietarinen Janne , Soini Tiina
Published: November 2019

Sustainable school development is suggested to result in both meaningful learning and enhanced well-being for those involved in the reform work. The aim of the study was to gain a better understanding of the relations between the strategies utilised in school development work, school impact of the reform and burdening in the context of curriculum reform in Finland. Altogether 550 district-level stakeholders responsible for curriculum reform at the local level responded to the survey. Structural equation modelling (SEM) was utilised to explore the interrelations between the reform implementation strategy, collective proactive strategies of well-being, as well as reform-related stress and the perceived school impact of the reform. The results showed that the top-down–bottom-up implementation strategy was related to the school impact of the reform and to the use of collective proactive strategies and reduced levels of stress. Collective proactive strategies also contributed to lower stress levels and enhanced school impact. The results indicate that the top-down–bottom-up implementation strategy provides an effective way to promote sustainable school reform in terms of enhancing the collective and cumulative learning and reducing burdening of those involved in the reform.
Clear-cuts are temporary habitats, not matrix, for endangered grassland burnet moths (Zygaena spp.)
Authors: Bergman Karl-Olof , Burman Joseph , Jonason Dennis , Larsson Mattias C. , Ryrholm Nils , Westerberg Lars , Milberg Per
Published: November 2019

Burnet moths (Zygaenaspp.) are day-flying Lepidoptera considered indicative of species-rich grasslands. In the present study, our aim was to clarify whether clear-cuts are habitat, supporting habitat or matrix for three species ofZygaena. We did so by sampling these species with sex pheromones on 48 clear-cuts, varying in amount of host and nectar plants, in southern Sweden. To compare the efficiency of such sampling, we also conducted transect walks on these clearcuts. Overall, host-plants on clear-cuts best explained the abundance ofZygaenaspp. recorded, better than nectar-plants or connectivity with nearby grasslands. These results indicate that clear-cuts with an abundance of host plants are used as a fully functional habitat, and not a supporting habitat in the sense of only providing nectar. There is no support in these results for considering clear-cuts as an inert matrix. With about half the work-effort, pheromone traps recorded 100 times moreZygaenaspp. as transect walks. The poor correspondence between observations during transects walks and pheromone trap catches suggestZygaenaspp. being difficult to monitor by transect walks. In contrast to grasslands, clear-cuts are short-term in nature requiring repeated recolonization, indicating the importance of permanent grasslands. However, clear-cuts are important temporary insect habitats due to their great acreage, and suitable management can increase the time they remain a habitat.
Robotic Standard Development Life Cycle in Action
Authors: Olszewska Joanna Isabelle , Houghtaling Michael , Goncalves Paulo J. S. , Fabiano Nicola , Haidegger Tamas , Carbonera Joel Luis , Patterson William Remington , Ragavan S. Veera , Fiorini Sandro R. , Prestes Edson
Published: November 2019

Robotics is a fast-growing field which requires the efficient development of adapted standards. Hence, in this paper, we propose a development methodology to support the robot standardization effort led by international, technical, and professional associations such as the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). Our proposed standard development life cycle is a middle-out, iterative, collaborative, and incremental approach we have successfully applied to the development of the new IEEE Ontological Standard for Ethically Driven Robotics and Automation Systems (IEEE P7007 Standard).
Magnetism and Conductivity Along Structural Domain Walls of SrTiO3
Authors: Frenkel Yiftach , Xie Yanwu , Hwang Harold Y. , Kalisky Beena
Published: November 2019

The interface between the oxide insulators LaAlO3 and SrTiO3 (LAO/STO) hosts a two-dimensional electron gas. The combination of interfacial conductivity and superconductivity at ultra-low temperatures with the physical phenomena of the oxide parent materials has fueled extensive research in the field since its discovery in 2004. Scanning superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) measurements have shown that structural domain walls, formed below 105 K, modulate the current flow at the interface and recently revealed weak magnetic signals along the same domain structure. Here we use scanning SQUID to investigate the temperature dependence of different electronic properties of the LAO/STO interface. We find correlation between magnetism and conductivity, which are both spatially modulated on the domain structure. This data suggests a possible relation between the populations of electrons participating in each order.
Legumes increase grassland productivity with no effect on nitrous oxide emissions
Authors: Barneze Arlete S. , Whitaker Jeanette , McNamara Niall P. , Ostle Nicholas J.
Published: November 2019

Aims

Grasslands are important agricultural production systems, where ecosystem functioning is affected by land management practices. Grass-legume mixtures are commonly cultivated to increase grassland productivity while reducing the need for nitrogen (N) fertiliser. However, little is known about the effect of this increase in productivity on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in grass-legume mixtures. The aim of this study was to investigate interactions between the proportion of legumes in grass-legume mixtures and N-fertiliser addition on productivity and GHG emissions. We tested the hypotheses that an increase in the relative proportion of legumes would increase plant productivity and decrease GHG emissions, and the magnitude of these effects would be reduced by N-fertiliser addition.

Methods

This was tested in a controlled environment mesocosm experiment with one grass and one legume species grown in mixtures in different proportions, with or without N-fertiliser. The effects on N cycling processes were assessed by measurement of above- and below-ground biomass, shoot N uptake, soil physico-chemical properties and GHG emissions.

Results

Above-ground productivity and shoot N uptake were greater in legume-grass mixtures compared to grass or legume monocultures, in fertilised and unfertilised soils. However, we found no effect of legume proportion on N2O emissions, total soil N or mineral-N in fertilised or unfertilised soils.

Conclusions

This study shows that the inclusion of legumes in grass-legume mixtures positively affected productivity, however N cycle were in the short-term unaffected and mainly affected by nitrogen fertilisation. Legumes can be used in grassland management strategies to mitigate climate change by reducing crop demand for N-fertilisers.
Opening out and closing down: the treatment of uncertainty in transport planning’s forecasting paradigm
Authors: Lyons Glenn , Marsden Greg
Published: November 2019

Since the 1960s, development of the transport system has been framed by the notion of forecasting future demand. Yet the past decade or more appears to signal some significant changes to the role of travel in society which are having a material impact on how much people travel (and may travel in the future). Coupled with the potential for major technological changes and a range of climate adaptation scenarios, the future of mobility presents today’s decision making on transport strategy and investment with a broader set of uncertainties than has previously been considered. This paper examines current mainstream practice for incorporating uncertainty into decision-making, through an illustrative case study of the highly codified approaches of the Department for Transport in England. It deconstructs the issue by first focussing on different ways in which there is an opening out or acceptance of new uncertainties and how this creates a (wider) set of potential futures. It then turns to consider how this set of futures is used, or not, in decision-making, i.e. the process of closing down uncertainty to arrive at or at least inform a decision. We demonstrate that, because the range of uncertainties has broadened in scope and scale, the traditional technocratic approach of closing down decisions through sensitivity testing is at odds with the greater breadth now being called for at the opening out stage. We conclude that transport decision-making would benefit from a rebalancing of technical depth with analytical breadth. The paper outlines a plausible new approach to opening out and closing down that is starting to be applied in practice. This approach must be accompanied by an opening up of the processes by which technical advice for decisions are reached and how uncertainties are understood and negotiated.
Deep Factorisation of the Stable Process III: the View from Radial Excursion Theory and the Point of Closest Reach
Authors: Kyprianou Andreas E. , Rivero Victor , Satitkanitkul Weerapat
Published: November 2019

We compute explicitly the distribution of the point of closest reach to the origin in the path of any d-dimensional isotropic stable process, with d ≥ 2. Moreover, we develop a new radial excursion theory, from which we push the classical Blumenthal–Getoor–Ray identities for first entry/exit into a ball (cf. Blumenthal et al. Trans. Amer. Math. Soc., 99, 540–554 1961) into the more complex setting of n-tuple laws for overshoots and undershoots. We identify explicitly the stationary distribution of any d-dimensional isotropic stable process when reflected in its running radial supremum. Finally, for such processes, and as consequence of some of the analysis of the aforesaid, we provide a representation of the Wiener–Hopf factorisation of the MAP that underlies the stable process through the Lamperti–Kiu transform. Our analysis continues in the spirit of Kyprianou (Ann. Appl. Probab., 20(2), 522–564 2010) and Kyprianou et al. (2015) in that our methodology is largely based around treating stable processes as self-similar Markov processes and, accordingly, taking advantage of their Lamperti-Kiu decomposition.
Inducement grants, hiring announcements, and adverse selection for new CEOs
Authors: Cadman Brian , Carrizosa Richard , Peng Xiaoxia
Published: November 2019

We examine how adverse selection problems when hiring new external CEOs affect contractual features of inducement grants. Focusing on the sensitivity of inducement grants to the new CEO announcement return ($Sensitivity), we find that firms provide inducement grants that are more sensitive to the new CEO announcement return when information asymmetry about the new CEO is more severe and the costs of adverse selection problems are higher. We also find a positive relation between the market reaction to the appointment and $Sensitivity. We consider factors that reduce information asymmetry (e.g., engaging a search firm or appointing internal CEOs) and find they are associated with lower sensitivity of the inducement grant to the announcement.
Tribological Performance of Non-halogenated Phosphonium Ionic Liquids as Additives to Polypropylene and Lithium-Complex Greases
Authors: Ploss Moritz , Tian Yiyuan , Yoshikawa Sosaku , Westbroek René , Leckner Johan , Glavatskih Sergei
Published: November 2019

Four non-halogenated ionic liquids (ILs) with trihexyl(tetradecyl)phosphonium cation are tested as lubricant additives to polypropylene (PP) and lithium-complex (LiX) greases. In pin-on-disk tests at elevated temperatures, the addition of an IL with bis(oxalato)borate ([BOB]) anion reduces wear by up to 50% when compared to the neat LiX base grease; an IL with bis(mandelato)borate ([BMB]) anion reduces friction by up to 60% for both PP and LiX. Elemental analysis reveals that oxygen-rich tribofilms help to reduce wear in case of [BOB], while the friction reduction observed for [BMB] is likely caused by adsorption processes. We find that temperature has a pronounced effect on additive expression, yet additive concentration is of minor importance under continuous sliding conditions. In contrast, rolling-sliding experiments at 90 °C show that the traction performance of LiX grease is dependent on additive concentration, revealing a reduction in traction by up to 30 and 40% for [BMB]- and [BOB]-containing ILs at concentrations of 10 wt%. Finally, an IL with dicyanamide anion reduces friction and increases wear in pin-on-disk tests at room temperature, while an IL with bis-2,4,4-(trimethylpentyl)phosphinate anion increases wear, showing only limited potential as grease additives. Overall, this work demonstrates the ability of non-halogenated ILs to significantly extend grease performance limits.
Spectral Shifting in Extraordinary Optical Transmission by Polarization-Dependent Surface Plasmon Coupling
Authors: Park Jongkyoon , Lee Hyunsoo , Gliserin Alexander , Kim Kyujung , Kim Seungchul
Published: November 2019

Nanoapertures in a metallic film exhibit extraordinary optical transmission (EOT) owing to the surface plasmon resonance. Their transmission properties are known to be dependent on the structural parameters of the nanoapertures. In addition, the polarization of light has also a crucial influence on the transmission spectrum. In this study, we numerically found that the polarization state is a sensitive parameter in plasmonic EOT only when the gap size between triangular nanoapertures is less than ~ 20 nm. For a polarization of the light perpendicular to the axis between the nanoapertures, the optical transmission spectrum is nonlinearly redshifted with decreasing gap size. This spectral shifting of the transmission has potential applications for active optical filters, which can be manipulated by the polarization of light or by adjusting the gap size.
Transformative roles of people and places: learning, experiencing, and regenerative action through social innovation
Authors: Mehmood Abid , Marsden Terry , Taherzadeh Alice , Axinte Lorena F. , Rebelo Cátia
Published: November 2019

This paper discusses the transformative role of people and the places which they inhabit. It advocates the richness and multiplicity of actors and understandings to drive sustainable place-shaping practices. Grounded in the interdisciplinary place-based conceptualisation of social innovation, the paper aims to progress a holistic conceptual framework which integrates the active processes of learning, experiencing, and regeneration to tackle the complex challenges of sustainability. The discussion argues for moving beyond the conceptual deliberations into practice-based research. The framework proposed brings together three different lenses: first, transformative learning as an approach to experiential pedagogy with focus on education and learning based in local communities and the surrounding places; second, experiencing place through sense-making to help people relate closely to their values and meanings of place; third, regenerative action to reverse and recuperate from the negative impact of humans on the environment and promote place stewardship. Through a dynamic combination of these processes, new socially innovative agency is created. Empirical examples of this agency have been captured in this paper from a series of projects which were part of the SUSPLACE programme. In conclusion, we associate the interactive nature of this agency with sustainable re-learning, re-experiencing, and re-generation processes to reshape places in a transformative way.
Metal-organic framework UiO-66 membranes
Authors: Liu Xinlei
Published: November 2019

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have emerged as a class of promising membrane materials. UiO-66 is a prototypical and stable MOF material with a number of analogues. In this article, we review five approaches for fabricating UiO-66 polycrystalline membranes including in situ synthesis, secondary synthesis, biphase synthesis, gas-phase deposition and electrochemical deposition, as well as their applications in gas separation, pervaporation, nanofiltration and ion separation. On this basis, we propose possible methods for scalable synthesis of UiO-66 membranes and their potential separation applications in the future.
Off to a good start after a cancer diagnosis: implementation of a time out consultation in primary care before cancer treatment decision
Authors: Noteboom Eveline A. , de Wit Niek J. , van Asseldonk Ingrid J. E. M. , Janssen Monique C. A. M. , Lam-Wong Wai Yee , Linssen Rob H. P. J. , Pepels Manon J. A. E. , Schrama Natascha A. W. P. , Trompper Mariëlle E. H. , Veldhuizen L. Maaike , Wijtvliet Anne P. , Zeldenrust Ed G. F. , Hendrikx Ans M. , van de Boomen Wil A. , Elbersen Dorothé M. , Jacobs Esther M. G. , van der Wall Elsken , Helsper Charles W.
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Supportive care for cancer patients may benefit from improving treatment decisions and optimal use of the family physicians’ and specialists’ strengths. To improve shared decision-making (SDM) and facilitate continuity of primary care during treatment, a cancer care path including a “time out consultation” (TOC) in primary care before treatment decision, was implemented. This study assesses the uptake of a TOC and the added value for SDM.

Methods

For patients with metastatic lung or gastro-intestinal cancer, a TOC was introduced in their care path in a southern region of The Netherlands, from April until October 2016. Uptake of a TOC was measured to reflect on facilitation of continuity of primary care. The added value for SDM and overall experiences were evaluated with questionnaires and semi-structured interviews among patients, family physicians, and specialists.

Results

Of the 40 patients who were offered a TOC, 31 (78%) had a TOC. Almost all patients, family physicians, and specialists expressed that they experienced added value for SDM. This includes a stimulating effect on reflection on choice (expressed by 83% of patients) and improved preparation for treatment decision (75% of patients). Overall added value of a TOC for SDM, only evaluated among family physicians and specialists, was experienced by 71% and 86% of these physicians, respectively.

Conclusion and Implications for Cancer Survivors

The first experiences with a TOC in primary care before cancer treatment decision suggest that it may help to keep the GP “in the loop” after a cancer diagnosis and that it may contribute to the SDM process, according to patients, family physicians, and specialists.
Monthly variation in masses, metals and endotoxin content as well as pro-inflammatory response of airborne particles collected by TEOM monitors
Authors: Ljunggren Stefan A. , Nosratabadi Ali Reza , Graff Pål , Karlsson Helen
Published: November 2019

Particle exposure has been linked to an increased incidence of cardiovascular disease. Furthermore, particle exposure has been shown to have a chronic inhibitory effect on lung development in young people and may result in increased respiratory problems in adults or children with respiratory-related diseases. In today’s urban environments, particle levels are mainly monitored gravimetrically; however, other factors such as particle size, shape and surface reactivity have recently been noted as highly important in relation to possible health outcomes. Here, particles from TEOM monitor filters placed in three different cities were studied. The purpose of the study was to investigate whether there are variations in particle masses, cadmium and lead contents, as well as endotoxin levels between locations and time points over the year and if this can be correlated to the particles ability to induce a pro-inflammatory response in vitro. Results showed that it is possible to detect variations at different locations and at different time points over the year and that cadmium, lead and endotoxin levels did not coincide with the increased total particle masses while endotoxin levels coincided with pro-inflammatory responses in vitro. The present study shows that filter analysis is a useful complement to gravimetric or particle-counting measurements in studies of particle-related health effects and will give useful information regarding future air quality measurements.
Analysis of Density Changes of Selected Brain Receptors After a 14-Day Supply of Chromium(III) and Evaluation of Chromium(III) Affinity to Selected Receptors and Transporters
Authors: Piotrowska Anna , Siwek Agata , Wolak Małgorzata , Nowak Gabriel
Published: November 2019

Chromium(III) is one of the most controversial biometals. Although, it is no longer on the list of minerals necessary for the proper functioning of the human body, and its pharmacological effect is still under discussion. One of the purposes of Cr(III) administration is to use it in patients with mood disorders and it is strictly related to its pharmacological, not dietary effect. This is because its high doses are necessary to obtain the results and additionally, no deficiencies in human population have been noted. In this study, the affinity of chromium(III) to selected receptors and transporters in the rat brain was evaluated, and the effect of the 14-day administration of this metal was assessed on the density of selected receptors. All analyses were performed in vitro using radioligand binding assays, and the results indicated lack of affinity to β1 and α1 receptors and serotonin transporter (SERT), furthermore very weak affinity to the 5-HT1A receptor (30% inhibition at 10−4 and 10−5 M). Analysis of the α1 and β1 adrenergic receptor density indicated lack of any adaptive effects after 14 days of Cr(III) administration through intraperitoneal injections (doses 6 and 12 mg/kg). The antidepressant activity of chromium(III) indicated in clinical trials concerned patients with atypical, seasonal, or dystonic symptoms. This effect, as it seems based on the presented results, does not depend on direct affinity to serotonin receptors and transporter nor is the result of adaptive changes in the adrenoreceptor system.
Alterations of Transcription of Genes Coding Anti-oxidative and Mitochondria-Related Proteins in Amyloid β Toxicity: Relevance to Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Cieślik Magdalena , Czapski Grzegorz A. , Wójtowicz Sylwia , Wieczorek Iga , Wencel Przemysław L. , Strosznajder Robert P. , Jaber Vivian , Lukiw Walter J. , Strosznajder Joanna B.
Published: November 2019

A growing body of evidence indicates that pathological forms of amyloid beta (Aβ) peptide contribute to neuronal degeneration and synaptic loss in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). In this study, we investigated the impact of exogenous Aβ1-42 oligomers (AβO) and endogenously liberated Aβ peptides on transcription of genes for anti-oxidative and mitochondria-related proteins in cell lines (neuronal SH-SY5Y and microglial BV2) and in brain cortex of transgenic AD (Tg-AD) mice, respectively. Our results demonstrated significant AβO-evoked changes in transcription of genes in SH-SY5Y cells, where AβO enhanced expression of Sod1, Cat, mt-Nd1, Bcl2, and attenuated Sirt5, Sod2 and Sdha. In BV2 line, AβO increased the level of mRNA for Sod2, Dnm1l, Bcl2, and decreased for Gpx4, Sirt1, Sirt3, mt-Nd1, Sdha and Mfn2. Then, AβO enhanced free radicals level and impaired mitochondrial membrane potential only in SH-SY5Y cells, but reduced viability of both cell types. Inhibitor of poly(ADP-ribose)polymerase-1 and activator of sirtuin-1 more efficiently enhanced viability of SH-SY5Y than BV2 affected by AβO. Analysis of brain cortex of Tg-AD mice confirmed significant downregulation of Sirt1, Mfn1 and mt-Nd1 and upregulation of Dnm1l. In human AD brain, changes of microRNA pattern (miRNA-9, miRNA-34a, miRNA-146a and miRNA-155) seem to be responsible for decrease in Sirt1 expression. Overall, our results demonstrated a diverse response of neuronal and microglial cells to AβO toxicity. Alterations of genes encoding Sirt1, Mfn1 and Drp1 in an experimental model of AD suggest that modulation of mitochondria dynamics and Sirt1, including miRNA strategy, may be crucial for improvement of AD therapy.
Not All Syrian Doctors Become Taxi Drivers: Stagnation and Continuity Among Highly Educated Syrians in Norway
Authors: Bygnes Susanne
Published: November 2019

Many studies of forced migration have documented processes of deskilling and falls in status resulting from an inability to convert capital from one context to another. This article relies on qualitative interviews with highly educated individuals who arrived in Norway in the wake of the Syrian crisis. In the material, narratives of stagnation, loss and struggle against bureaucracy are highly salient and persist over time. I coin the term mobility dissonance to describe this post-migration stressor—the dissonance between physical mobility across borders and a sense of (not) going anywhere in life. By following some informants over time, this study indicates how classed resources can also represent an element of continuity through the critical life course events that forced migration entails. Descriptions of mobility dissonance are thus part of a more nuanced picture. While hopelessness and loss are very salient in the interviews, following informants over time provides lived examples of how classed resources represent an important form of continuity. Continuity refers to a counter-narrative to the riches-to-rags story often attached to resourceful forced migrants. I suggest future research to pay more attention to classed resources as a potential source of continuity through the migration process.
Germination requirements of the subordinate fen meadow species Valeriana dioica L
Authors: Rasran Leonid , Eisenmann Cornelia , Wagentristl Regina , Bernhardt Karl-Georg
Published: November 2019

Plant species of the intermediate life strategy type are characteristic for species-rich grasslands, which are sensitive to changes in the level of disturbance. Germination and early establishment of seedlings is expected to be the most crucial stage, limiting the successful colonization of appropriate sites. Valeriana dioica is a typical plant of calcareous fens, which are dependent on regular suppression of strong competitors by means of moderate land use. It is endangered in many parts of Central Europe, including Lower Austria. We studied the effects of light, temperature and pre-treatment (cold stratification) on the germination success of V. dioica seeds and the role of litter produced by different competitors on the early establishment of seedlings. We tested seeds from five populations differing in the level of competition for light and considered also the morphological variability of propagules and maternal plants. We found that V. dioica is able to germinate without light. It showed high germination percentages both under high summer temperatures independent of cold stratification and at low temperatures, but only after the stratification. Litter produced by dicotyledonous forbs was less hampering for the seedlings than that of small sedges or grasses. Valeriana dioica possesses a broad regeneration niche and is able to use gaps for germination and establishment both in spring and in summer. It reproduces successfully in herb-dominated fen meadow vegetation but disappears from reed communities. This study demonstrates the significant plasticity of the regeneration niche for a species with an intermediate life strategy and also stresses the importance of gaps for its reproduction.
Predicting consolidation-induced wrinkles and their effects on composites structural performance
Authors: Varkonyi Balazs , Belnoue Jonathan P.-H. , Kratz James , Hallett Stephen R.
Published: November 2019

The majority of high-performance composite parts are nowadays designed using advanced numerical simulations that are able to accurately predict a part’s strength and deformation, providing that the internal ply architecture and exact fibre orientation are known with sufficient accuracy. However, most parts have some deviation of the fibre orientation from the ‘as-designed’ geometry, leading to the simulation overestimating the component’s strength. Up until recently, the advancement of the process simulation tools has not been sufficient to allow knowledge of this fibre deviation before any part has been manufactured, thus leading to overly conservative designs and costly experimental optimisation of the manufacturing process to reduce fibre path defects. This results in additional cost, waste of material and increased fuel consumption (due to the unnecessary weight of the components). This paper shows how state-of-the-art composite manufacturing simulations of the autoclave consolidation process can predict and help to mitigate against out-of-plane wrinkle formation in components made from toughened UD prepregs and thus raise confidence in failure analyses predictions. The industry relevant case of a stepped laminate is used as an example. Model predictions for the internal ply geometries are quantitatively compared to micrograph images of real samples. It is then shown how the input of the simulated ply architecture helps improving the accuracy of the failure simulations.