bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Parameterized complexity of finding a spanning tree with minimum reload cost diameter
Authors: Baste Julien , Gözüpek Didem , Paul Christophe , Sau Ignasi , Shalom Mordechai , Thilikos Dimitrios M.
Published: December 2019

We study the minimum diameter spanning tree problem under the reload cost model (Diameter‐Treefor short) introduced by Wirth and Steffan. In this problem, given an undirected edge‐colored graphG, reload costs on a path arise at a node where the path uses consecutive edges of different colors. The objective is to find a spanning tree ofGof minimum diameter with respect to the reload costs. We initiate a systematic study of the parameterized complexity of theDiameter‐Treeproblem by considering the following parameters: the cost of a solution, and the treewidth and the maximum degree Δ of the input graph. We prove thatDiameter‐Treeispara‐NP‐hard for any combination of two of these three parameters, and that it isFPTparameterized by the three of them. We also prove that the problem can be solved in polynomial time on cactus graphs. This result is somehow surprising since we proveDiameter‐Treeto beNP‐hard on graphs of treewidth two, which is best possible as the problem can be trivially solved on forests. When the reload costs satisfy the triangle inequality, Wirth and Steffan proved that the problem can be solved in polynomial time on graphs with Δ = 3, and Galbiati proved that it isNP‐hard if Δ = 4. Our results show, in particular, that without the requirement of the triangle inequality, the problem isNP‐hard if Δ = 3, which is also best possible. Finally, in the case where the reload costs are polynomially bounded by the size of the input graph, we prove thatDiameter‐Treeis inXPandW[1]‐hard parameterized by the treewidth plus Δ.
For brand alliance social or cause related marketing which one is better? A study in emerging markets
Authors: Srivastava Rajesh
Published: December 2019

The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationships and the effectiveness of cause‐ related or social marketing on consumer perceptions, perceived brand motivations, and the direct and indirect effects that these factors have on brand alliance, attitude, and purchase intentions. A total of 425 participated who are users of soap and oil in the fast‐moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector. Advertisements of three per brands are taken up for study. Dove soap, Parachute hair oil, and Dettol Soap (social marketing) and Fiama Di Wells beauty soap, Vatika hair oil, and Nihar hair oil (cause marketing) are selected for study. Both social and cause‐related marketing motivate the consumer to purchase products from the same company and likewise recommend to others. The present study findings clearly suggest that compared with social cause‐related marketing, social marketing is more preferred. People like watching advertisements incorporating social marketing more compared with cause‐related marketing. Both social and cause‐related marketing motivate the consumer to purchase products from the same company and also recommend to others. The takeaway from this study is how social and cause‐related marketing differ on brand alliance and subsequent effect on brand image, brand recommendation, brand loyalty, consumer perceptions, and purchase behaviour.
A probable case of subligamentous tuberculous spondylitis: The concealed body of theLate Modern Period(early 16th century to early 20th century),Franciscancrypt ofSt. AnthonyandSt. Eusebiuschurch,Lombardy,Italy
Authors: Larentis Omar , Tonina Enrica , Tesi Chiara , Rossetti Chiara , Gorini Ilaria , Ciliberti Rosagemma , Licata Marta
Published: December 2019

This paper presents a probable case of subligamentous tuberculous spondylitis (STBS), a rare form of extrapulmonary tuberculosis, diagnosed in the skeleton of a middle‐aged male discovered in the ossuary of the Franciscan crypt of the St. Anthony and St. Eusebius church, which lies in north‐western Italy. The skeleton can be dated back between the 17th and 19th centuries. This rare type of tuberculosis was identified in the thoracic and lumbar spine, with no further evidences at the level of the cranial and other postcranial bones. The concomitance of osteoclastic and osteoblastic activities, scalloping, reactive bone formation area, anterior, and lateral ligaments ossification was observed and allowed us to perform a morphological STBS diagnosis. The subject presented here contributes to the literature related to the prevalence of tuberculosis in Italy during the last centuries. Moreover, we also focus our attention on some osteopathological criteria that can prove useful for the diagnosis of extrapulmonary tuberculosis.
Synthesis of tri‐aryl ketone amine isomers and their cure with epoxy resins
Authors: Reyes Larry Q. , Dao Buu , Vogel Wouter , Bijleveld Johan , Tucker Sam , Christensen Steve , Wiggins Jeffrey , Dingemans Theo , Varley Russell J.
Published: December 2019

Isomeric tri‐aryl ketone amines, 1,3‐bis(3‐aminobenzoyl)benzene (133 BABB), 1,3‐bis(4‐aminobenzoyl)benzene (134 BABB), and 1,4‐bis(4‐aminobenzoyl)benzene (144 BABB) are synthesized and cured with diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A and diglycidyl ether of bisphenol F in this work. Differential scanning calorimetry and near‐infrared spectroscopy reveal higher rate constants and enhanced secondary amine conversion with increasing para substitution attributed to resonance effects and the electron withdrawing nature of the carbonyl linkages. Glass transition temperatures increase from 133 BABB to 134 BABB, but decrease modestly for the 144 BABB hardener. With increasing para substitution, the flexural modulus and strength both decrease while the strain to failure increases but all BABB amines displaying higher mechanical properties than the corresponding 4,4‐diaminodiphenyl sulfone (44 DDS) networks. The thermal stability of the BABB networks is found to be modestly lower than 44 DDS, but char yields are significantly higher. Changes in thermal and mechanical properties are described in terms of molecular structure and equilibrium packing density.
Proteomic Insights into Endometrial Receptivity and Embryo‐Endometrial Epithelium Interaction for Implantation Reveal Critical Determinants of Fertility
Authors: Evans Jemma , Hutchison Jennifer , Salamonsen Lois A. , Greening David W.
Published: December 2019

In vitro fertilization has overcome infertility issues for many couples. However, achieving implantation of a viable embryo into the maternal endometrium remains a limiting step in optimizing pregnancy success. The molecular mechanisms which characterize the transient state of endometrial receptivity, critical in enabling embryo‐endometrial interactions, and proteins which underpin adhesion at the implantation interface, are limited in humans despite these temporally regulated processes fundamental to life. Hence, failure of implantation remains the “final frontier” in infertility. A human coculture model is utilized utilizing spheroids of a trophectoderm (trophoblast stem) cell line, derived from pre‐implantation human embryos, and primary human endometrial epithelial cells, to functionally identify “fertile” versus “infertile” endometrial epithelium based on adhesion between these cell types. Quantitative proteomics identified proteins associated with human endometrial epithelial receptivity (“epithelial receptome”) and trophectoderm adhesion (“adhesome”). As validation, key “epithelial receptome” proteins (MAGT‐1/CDA/LGMN/KYNU/PC4) localized to the epithelium of receptive phase (mid‐secretory) endometrium obtained from fertile, normally cycling women but is largely absent from non‐receptive (proliferative) phase tissues. Factors involved in embryo‐epithelium interaction in successive temporal stages of endometrial receptivity and implantation are demonstrated and potential targets for improving fertility are provided, enhancing potential to become pregnant either naturally or in a clinical setting.
How to facilitate psychosocial adjustment in women tested for hereditary breast or ovarian cancer susceptibility? Insights from network analysis
Authors: Brédart Anne , Dick Julia , Cano Alejandra , Robieux Léonore , De Pauw Antoine , Schmutzler Rita , Stoppa‐Lyonnet Dominique , Dolbeault Sylvie , Kop Jean‐Luc
Published: December 2019

Background

Increasingly complex genetics counseling requires guidance to facilitate counselees' psychosocial adjustment. We explored networks of inter‐relationships among coping strategies and specific psychosocial difficulties in women tested for hereditary breast or ovarian cancer.

Methods

Of 752 counselees consecutively approached, 646 (86%) completed questionnaires addressing coping strategies (Brief‐COPE) and psychosocial difficulties (PAHC) after the initial genetic consultation (T1), and 460 (61%) of them again after the test result (T2). We applied network analysis comparing partial correlations among these questionnaire scales, according to the type of genetic test ‐ single gene‐targeted or multigene panel, test result and, before and after testing.

Results

Overall, 98 (21.3%), 259 (56.3%), 59 (12.8%) and 44 (9.6%) women received a pathogenic variant, uninformative negative (panel testing), variant of uncertain significance (VUS) or true negative (targeted testing) result, respectively. In most networks, connections were strongest between avoidance and general negative emotions. Cognitive restructuring was inter‐related to lower psychosocial difficulties. Avoidance and familial/social relationship difficulties were strongly related in women receiving a pathogenic variant. Stronger inter‐relationships were also noticed between avoidance and worries about personal cancer and concerns about hereditary predisposition in women receiving a VUS result. Differences in the prominence of inter‐relationships were observed by type of testing and assessment time.

Conclusions

Network analysis may be fruitful to highlight prominent inter‐relationships among coping strategies and psychosocial difficulties, in women tested for HBOC susceptibility, offering guidance for counseling.
Base‐Promoted Direct Chalcogenylation of 2‐Naphthols
Authors: Lima David B. , Santos Pedro H. V. , Fiori Priscila , Badshah Gul , Luz Eduardo Q. , Seckler Diego , Rampon Daniel S.
Published: December 2019

The functionalisation of 2‐naphthols and their derivatives has much importance because of their potential pharmaceutical and materials applications. In this context, this work presents a fast, cheap, and efficient method for direct chalcogenylation at position C1 of 2‐naphthols promoted by simple bases. The mechanistic studies indicate an ionic mechanism, essentially an electrophilic aromatic substitution, with a key role played by atmospheric oxygen for regeneration of the diorganoyl dichalcogenides.
Extraction of Luteolin from Peanut Shells by A Hydrophilic Ionic Liquid‐based Microwave‐assisted Method
Authors: Pan Langsheng , Zhao Xiaoyu , Zeng Shan , Xiang Fuyun , Zhao Guangguang , Li Yongfei
Published: December 2019

An ionic liquid‐based microwave‐assisted extraction method was developed to extract luteolin from peanut shells effectively. A series of hydrophilic 1‐alkyl‐3‐methylimidazolium ionic liquids with different anions (Br−, Cl− and BF4−) and different cations ([C2mim]+, [C4mim]+, [C8mim]+ and [C10mim]+) were screened, and [C10mim]Br was found to be the optimal extraction solvent. The reason is that when the cations are the same, the hydrogen bonding between Br− and the phenolic hydroxyl group on luteolin is the strongest; when the anions are the same, the carbon chain growth enhances the van der Waals force between the ionic liquid and the luteolin. The concentration of ionic liquid, extraction temperature, liquid‐solid ratio and extraction time were optimized by both single factor experiments and response surface methodology. Under the optimized conditions of [C10mim]Br concentration 1.00 mol/L, extraction temperature 85 °C, liquid‐solid ratio 11.63:1 mL/g, extraction time 12 min, the extraction yield of luteolin reached 80.36±0.67%. In addition, compared with conventional solvents, [C10mim]Br showed an excellent extraction yield to extracting luteolin from peanut shells .
Transparent Conductive Layer Based on Oriented Platinum Networks
Authors: Nizameev Irek , Nizameeva Guliya , Kadirov Marsil
Published: December 2019

The paper proposes an original method of creating a transparent electrically conductive coating based on oriented networks of platinum nanowires. Platinum nanowires are obtained by chemical precipitation from the liquid phase using the micellar template of cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) as a form‐creating and orienting component. The deposition of networks is made on the glass, using a small amount of platinum. Platinum nanowires with a height of 3–6 nm have a width of 50–60 nm, which corresponds in shape to a tape or a strip. The ratio of the length of the stripes to the width is about 500: 1. The aspect ratio of length to width is about 500:1. The orientation of the bands is high, and the density on the glass surface is low. This fact contributes to obtaining high optical transparency of the layer with a small value of the surface resistance of the coating.
Atomic‐Scale Fabrication of In‐Plane Heterojunctions of Few‐Layer MoS2 via In Situ Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy
Authors: Tai Kuo‐Lun , Huang Chun‐Wei , Cai Ren‐Fong , Huang Guan‐Min , Tseng Yi‐Tang , Chen Jun , Wu Wen‐Wei
Published: December 2019

Layered MoS2 is a prospective candidate for use in energy harvesting, valleytronics, and nanoelectronics. Its properties strongly related to its stacking configuration and the number of layers. Due to its atomically thin nature, understanding the atomic‐level and structural modifications of 2D transition metal dichalcogenides is still underdeveloped, particularly the spatial control and selective precision. Therefore, the development of nanofabrication techniques is essential. Here, an atomic‐scale approach used to sculpt 2D few‐layer MoS2 into lateral heterojunctions via in situ scanning/transmission electron microscopy (STEM/TEM) is developed. The dynamic evolution is tracked using ultrafast and high‐resolution filming equipment. The assembly behaviors inherent to few‐layer 2D‐materials are observed during the process and included the following: scrolling, folding, etching, and restructuring. Atomic resolution STEM is employed to identify the layer variation and stacking sequence for this new 2D‐architecture. Subsequent energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy and electron energy loss spectroscopy analyses are performed to corroborate the elemental distribution. This sculpting technique that is established allows for the formation of sub‐10 nm features, produces diverse nanostructures, and preserves the crystallinity of the material. The lateral heterointerfaces created in this study also pave the way for the design of quantum‐relevant geometries, flexible optoelectronics, and energy storage devices.
Amorphous Catalysts and Electrochemical Water Splitting: An Untold Story of Harmony
Authors: Anantharaj Sengeni , Noda Suguru
Published: December 2019

In the near future, sustainable energy conversion and storage will largely depend on the electrochemical splitting of water into hydrogen and oxygen. Perceiving this, countless research works focussing on the fundamentals of electrocatalysis of water splitting and on performance improvements are being reported everyday around the globe. Electrocatalysts of high activity, selectivity, and stability are anticipated as they directly determine energy‐ and cost efficiency of water electrolyzers. Amorphous electrocatalysts with several advantages over crystalline counterparts are found to perform better in electrocatalytic water splitting. There are plenty of studies witnessing performance enhancements in electrocatalysis of water splitting while employing amorphous materials as catalysts. The harmony between the flexibility of amorphous electrocatalysts and electrocatalysis of water splitting (both the oxygen evolution reaction [OER] and the hydrogen evolution reaction [HER]) is one of the untold and unsummarized stories in the field of electrocatalytic water splitting. This Review is devoted to comprehensively discussing the upsurge of amorphous electrocatalysts in electrochemical water splitting. In addition to that, the basics of electrocatalysis of water splitting are also elaborately introduced and the characteristics of a good electrocatalyst for OER and HER are discussed.
In Situ Monitoring Small Energy Storage Change of Electrochromic Supercapacitors via Perovskite Photodetectors
Authors: Sun Peng , Liu Yujin , Qiu Meijia , Tong Yexiang , Mai Wenjie
Published: December 2019

In situ monitoring the healthy state of energy storage devices is a smart way to avoid severe accidents and major emergencies. Electrochromic supercapacitors (ECSCs) stand out among other devices owing to the smart color variation during charge and discharge processes. However, it is hard to obtain the precise state of charge via only identifying their color change. To address this problem, an integral system composed of the inorganic CsPbBr3 perovskite photodetector (PPD) and polyaniline (PANI)//WO3 ECSC is proposed here. The PPD can simultaneously collect the variation of responsive current (under a green laser with the wavelength of 520 nm) when the ECSC is being charged or discharged. The real‐time state of charge following the color change can be recorded by the PPDs constantly and accurately. A voltage alteration as small as 47.2 mV (charge variation of 0.33 mC) can be detected by this integral system rapidly, implying its great potential in managing the health condition of ECSC or even common energy storage devices in the future.
Black teachers of English in South Korea: Constructing identities as a native English speaker and English language teaching professional
Authors: Charles Quanisha D.
Published: December 2019

This study uses critical race theory as a lens and narrative inquiry as a methodological tool to examine how the term native English speaker (NES) is socially constructed when subscribed to two Black teachers of English (BTE) working in South Korea’s secondary educational system. In addition to examining how these two BTEs interpret themselves as NESs, this study analyzes how being a NES influences pedagogical approaches in the classroom and their identity as an English language teaching (ELT) professional. Data from this study are taken from a larger research project comprising five participants’ ELT experiences as a NES in South Korea. Data collection consists of a questionnaire survey and Skype interviews as a means of reporting how these teachers construct their identities. Research shows participants navigating constructs of privilege and marginalization as a NES and ELT professional. Participants reported being cultural ambassadors of not only the English language but also their racial and ethnic background as Black Americans. Participants, also, attributed their identities as a NES and ELT professional to their ability to connect with the students, establish rapport, exchange cultural knowledge, and overall engage and educate students about cultures comprising the English language.
Fostering volunteer ESL teacher identity through reflection on apprenticeship of observation
Authors: Vinogradova Polina , Ross Erin Haskell
Published: December 2019

Many adult English language learners in the United States are taught by volunteer teachers in community‐based programs. These volunteers bring a variety of experience and expertise into the classroom and great enthusiasm for teaching and care for their students. However, many do not have background in language education. Professional development for such teachers needs to offer opportunities to reflect on self‐perception and evolving teacher identity in addition to teaching methods and classroom practices. This article discusses how conscious understanding of apprenticeship of observation can help volunteer teachers make explicit connections between their experiences as learners, current view of themselves as language teachers, and their teaching practices. The article outlines three activities that lead participants through a series of reflections that progress from describing their teaching beliefs, values, and practices; identifying most memorable teaching acts in their own learning (apprenticeship of observation); and connecting these teaching acts with volunteers’ current teaching approaches.
Exploring TESOL teacher educators as learners and reflective scholars: A shared narrative inquiry
Authors: Peercy Megan Madigan , Sharkey Judy , Baecher Laura , Motha Suhanthie , Varghese Manka
Published: December 2019

Recent scholarship examining how teachers and teacher educators learn to teach has advocated for a more critically oriented and better developed pedagogy of teacher education, in which teacher educator as practitioner is both in evidence and examined. Yet we currently know little about teacher educators as learners and reflective scholars open to examining their practice and research, and such inquiry is particularly limited within the scholarship in English language teacher education. This article brings together the narratives of the five co‐authors, all TESOL teacher educators based in U.S. universities who examine questions about the intersections of their identities and pedagogies. They do so as a first step toward addressing the gap in the literature regarding the self‐reflexivity of teacher educators. Identifying themes related to the intertwining of their social and professional identities and their pedagogies, their perceived legitimacy as teacher educators, and the impact of multiple contexts on their identities and pedagogies, the five co‐authors consider how they are both domesticating and domesticated by teacher education (Morgan, 2016) and argue that when teacher educators engage in shared and transparent exploration of their identities and pedagogies they are better able to identify their pedagogical blind spots and opportunities to agentively leverage their identities to challenge dominant discourses.
To switch or not to switch: Bilingual preservice teachers and translanguaging in teaching and learning
Authors: Caldas Blanca
Published: December 2019

This ethnographic study examines the language ideology shifts among a group of 20 Mexican American/Latinx preservice bilingual teachers within a translanguaging space (Wei, 2011). This article explores how understanding different language ideological approaches to bilingualism and bilingual education through the use of translanguaging as the language of instruction push participants to examine their bilingual identities, linguistic trajectories and ideologies, and their own future approach to language and content teaching. Findings show that all the participants agreed they would use translanguaging as a language policy in their future classrooms as they experienced its benefits first‐hand during this study. At the same time, the participants proposed a combination of approaches depending on students' linguistic needs, placing more emphasis on the language that requires more development. This quest for ideological coexistence stemmed from the participants' reflections of the socio‐cultural‐historical‐political contexts of the schooling of emergent bilinguals in the United States combined with their own linguistic and educational trajectories, which promoted a new awareness and commitment to avoid a new cycle of language marginalization in their future classrooms.
Nonnative‐English‐speaking teacher candidates’ language teacher identity development in graduate TESOL preparation programs: A review of the literature
Authors: Swearingen Amanda J.
Published: December 2019

This systematic review synthesizes 17 studies exploring nonnative‐English‐speaking teacher candidates’ (NNES‐TC) language teacher identity (LTI) development. The purpose was to examine NNES‐TCs’ LTI development during graduate‐level TESOL programs in the United States, Canada, and Australia. The review addressed the questions, What influences NNES teacher candidates’ LTI development, and in what ways do teacher preparation programs promote positive LTI development? Findings revealed four categories: (1) (non)native speakering and the native speaker fallacy, (2) racialized and gendered identities, (3) academic identity clashes, and (4) the emotional “glue” of LTI development. NNES‐TCs navigated personal and professional identities and struggled to balance their own expectations vis‐à‐vis expectations from their graduate programs and future teaching contexts. While native speakering discourses remained in claims of ownership over English, reflections on counter‐discourses and their connection to local teaching practices were agentively appropriated by NNES teacher candidates as they claimed legitimacy as teachers. Findings suggested teacher preparation should commit to critiquing native speakerism and offer spaces for empowering NNES‐TCs through narrative reflections. Preparation should explicitly address linguistic goals and needs, prioritize practical experience, and encourage teacher educators’ reflection on their practices. Future research should explore longitudinal LTI development, identities‐in‐practice, affective influences, and intersectional identities.
A novice TESOL teacher’s professional identity and evolving commitment
Authors: Feryok Anne , Askaribigdeli Rouhollah
Published: December 2019

Identity development is a challenge facing novice TESOL teachers that can threaten their commitment to teaching. This case study looks at multiple identities (Gee, 2000), situated activity systems (Engeström, 2015), and multiple components of organizational commitment (Meyer & Allen, 1991) to explain the identity development of a novice Iranian woman teacher of ESOL in a private language institute in Iran. Over a 12‐month period the researchers collected multiple spoken, written, and observed data sets on the teacher’s English language teaching and learning experiences. Influences on and turning points in the development of identity and commitment in the workplace are analyzed. The findings show that contradictions in the teacher and the activity system were transcended through actions that developed her identity, which in turn promoted her commitment. Implications and further studies are suggested about the interrelationships among identity, activity systems, and commitment, the kinds of activities that can promote identity development, and women language teachers in the Middle East and Muslim world.
Identities and ideologies in a language teacher candidate's autoethnography: Making meaning of storied experience
Authors: Yazan Bedrettin
Published: December 2019

This study examines the use of autoethnography as a teacher learning activity in a graduate‐level Linguistic for Classroom Teachers course to provide teacher candidates (TCs) with a discursive and experiential space to engage in narrative identity work. Designed as a semester‐long critical autoethnographic narrative (CAN), this teacher learning activity included language ideologies as a conceptual lens to guide six teacher candidates’ analysis of their experiences learning, using, and teaching languages. This study focuses on one of six TCs, Sara, as an information‐rich case selected with intensity sampling, and examines how she approaches and analyzes language ideologies and identity positions in her CAN. It specifically addresses the following research question: How does Sara make sense of language ideologies and identity positions as she recounts and examines the stories in her autoethnography? To answer this question, the author analyzes the following CAN components as data: four installments, one‐on‐one feedback sessions, discussion board posts, concept map of CAN, pair work of rubric co‐construction, and CAN presentation. The findings demonstrate that in her CAN assignment, Sara discusses valorization and hierarchization in language ideologies, explores border patrolling and identity positioning in language ideologies, and destabilizes ideological binaries as she constructs her teacher identity through narrative.
Functional renormalization group approach to color superconducting phase transition
Authors: Fejős Gergely , Yamamoto Naoki
Published: December 2019

Abstract

We investigate the order of the color superconducting phase transition using the functional renormalization group approach. We analyze the Ginzburg-Landau effective theory of color superconductivity and more generic scalar SU(N
c) gauge theories by calculating the β function of the gauge coupling in arbitrary dimension d based on two different regularization schemes. We find that in d = 3, due to gluon fluctuation effects, the β function never admits an infrared fixed point solution. This indicates that, unlike the ordinary superconducting transition, color superconductivity can only show a first-order phase transition.
Prescriptive unitarity for non-planar six-particle amplitudes at two loops
Authors: Bourjaily Jacob L. , Herrmann Enrico , Langer Cameron , McLeod Andrew J. , Trnka Jaroslav
Published: December 2019

Abstract

We extend the applications of prescriptive unitarity beyond the planar limit to provide local, polylogarithmic, integrand-level representations of six-particle MHV scattering amplitudes in both maximally supersymmetric Yang-Mills theory and gravity. The integrand basis we construct is diagonalized on a spanning set of non-vanishing leading singularities that ensures the manifest matching of all soft-collinear singularities in both theories. As a consequence, this integrand basis naturally splits into infrared-finite and infrared-divergent parts, with hints toward an integrand-level exponentiation of infrared divergences. Importantly, we use the same basis of integrands for both theories, so that the presence or absence of residues at infinite loop momentum becomes a feature detectable by inspecting the cuts of the theory. Complete details of our results are provided as sup- plementary material.
Paediatric nuclear medicine practice: an international survey by the IAEA
Authors: Poli G. L. , Torres L. , Coca M. , Veselinovic M. , Lassmann M. , Delis H. , Fahey F.
Published: December 2019

Purpose

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) decided to initiate a survey to evaluate the current status of the practice of paediatric nuclear medicine worldwide, with the focus mainly on low and middle-income countries specifically in Latin America, Eastern Europe, Africa and Asia. This investigation sought to determine if the practice in paediatric nuclear medicine in these countries differed from that indicated by the survey of the Nuclear Medicine Global Initiative (NMGI) and if nuclear medicine practitioners were following established paediatric nuclear medicine guidelines.

Methods

A total of 133 institutes took part in the survey from 62 different IAEA member states within Africa (29), Asia (39), Europe (29) and Latin America (36). The four most frequent conventional (single-photon) nuclear medicine procedures were 99mTc labelled MDP, DSMA, MAG3 and pertechnetate thyroid scans. In addition, 46 centres provided data on FDG PET/CT, including exposure data for the CT component. Nearly half of the sites (48%) perform less than 200 paediatric nuclear medicine studies per year, while 11% perform more than 1000 such studies per year.

Results

Administered activities largely exceeded the recommendations for most of the sites for DMSA, MAG3 and pertechnetate, while compliance with international standards was somehow better for MDP studies. For FDG PET, the results were more uniform than for conventional nuclear medicine procedures. However, the use of CT in PET/CT for paediatric nuclear medicine revealed a high variability and, in some cases, high, dose-length product (DLP) values. This observation indicates that further attention is warranted for optimizing clinical practice in FDG PET/CT.

Conclusions

Overall, in most parts of the world, efforts have been undertaken to comply either with the EANM dosage card or with the North American Consensus Guidelines. However, variability in the practice of paediatric nuclear medicine still exists. The results of this survey provide valuable recommendations for a path towards global standardization of determining the amount of activity to be administered to children undergoing nuclear medicine procedures.
Opposites Attract: Assortative Mating and Immigrant–Native Intermarriage in Contemporary Sweden
Authors: Elwert Annika
Published: December 2019

This paper studies how immigrant–native intermarriages in Sweden are associated with individual characteristics of native men and women and patterns of assortative mating. Patterns of educational- and age-assortative mating that are similar to those found in native–native marriages may reflect openness to immigrant groups, whereas assortative mating patterns that indicate status considerations suggest that country of birth continues to serve as a boundary in the native marriage market. The study uses Swedish register data that cover the entire Swedish population for the period of 1991–2009. The results from binomial and multinomial logistic regressions show that low status of natives in terms of economic and demographic characteristics is associated with intermarriage and that intermarriages are characterized by educational and age heterogamy more than are native–native marriages. The findings indicate that immigrant women as well as immigrant men become more attractive marriage partners if they are considerably younger than their native spouses. This is particularly true for intermarriages with immigrants from certain regions of origin, such as wives from Asia and Africa and husbands from Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Gender differences in the intermarriage patterns of native men and women are surprisingly small.
Can Cartoons Which Depict Autistic Characters Improve Attitudes Towards Autistic Peers?
Authors: Engel Carla Simone , Sheppard Elizabeth
Published: December 2019

This study aimed to assess the efficacy of two cartoons which depict autistic characters in improving attitudes towards autistic peers in two separate studies. Forty-six children participated in study 1 (4–7 years), and 47 children participated in study 2 (8–11 years). Both the conative (behavioural) component of attitudes and knowledge about autism were measured before and after the cartoon interventions. Knowledge of autism increased after watching the cartoons in both studies but attitudes to autism only improved in study 1. Knowledge was shown to correlate with change in some but not all attitude measures. The findings suggest that cartoons can improve attitudes to autism, but this may depend on how information is presented.
Universal strategy for preimplantation genetic testing for cystic fibrosis based on next generation sequencing
Authors: Chamayou Sandrine , Sicali Maria , Lombardo Debora , Alecci Carmelita , Ragolia Carmen , Maglia Elena , Liprino Annalisa , Cardea Clementina , Storaci Giorgia , Romano Simona , Guglielmino Antonino
Published: December 2019

Purpose

We developed and applied a universal strategy for preimplantation genetic testing for all cystic fibrosis gene mutations (PGT-CF) based on next-generation sequencing (NGS).

Methods

A molecular protocol was designed to diagnose all CF mutations at preimplantation stage. The detection of CF mutations was performed by direct gene sequencing and linkage strategy testing 38 specific SNPs located upstream and inside the gene for PGT-CF. Seventeen couples at risk of CF transmission decided to undergo PGT-CF. Trophectoderm cell biopsies were performed on day 5–6 blastocysts. PGT for aneuploidy (PGT-A) was performed from the same samples. Tested embryos were transferred on further natural cycles.

Results

PGT was performed on 109 embryos. Fifteen CF mutations were tested. PGT-CF and PGT-A were conclusive for respectively 92.7% and 95.3% of the samples. A mean of 24.1 SNPs was informative per couple. After a single embryo transfer on natural cycle, 81.3% of the transferred tested embryos were implanted.

Conclusions

The present protocol based on the entire CFTR gene together with informative SNPs outside and inside the gene can be applied to diagnose all CF mutations at preimplantation stage.
Correction to: Geniza Magical Documents
Authors: Paz-Saar Ortal
Published: December 2019

The original article was published with an incomplete caption for fig. 1. Figure 1 with correct caption can be found on the next page.

Figure 1. A fragment from a medieval handbook of magic containing recipes for various aims. Cambridge University Library T-S K1.91, fol. 2 recto. Reproduced by kind permission of the Syndics of Cambridge University Library.
Recovery of ammonia from wastewater through chemical precipitation
Authors: Bianchi Lavinia , Kirwan Kerry , Alibardi Luca , Pidou Marc , Coles Stuart R.
Published: December 2019

Chemical precipitation is a consolidated technique applied in wastewater treatment to remove and recover phosphorous and ammonium that remain in the effluent after the anaerobic digestion treatment. The precipitate is magnesium ammonium phosphate hexahydrate (MgNH4PO4·6H2O), also known as struvite, and it is sold as a slow-release fertiliser. However, the value of struvite is quite low and has a limited market. Furthermore, it precipitates with heavy metals and other impurities that need to be removed to make the fertiliser commercially viable. This study looked at the thermal decomposition of struvite to recover added value products and recycle the magnesium for further precipitation. A kinetic study was carried out to understand the mechanism of decomposition and the formation of the different solid phases, which is fundamental for the design and optimisation of the technology. The thermogravimetric study confirmed that thermal decomposition is possible, but ammonia could not be completely released below 250 °C. The thermal analysis also led to the determination of the energy required for the decomposition, found to be 1.87 kJ g−1, which also includes the evaporation of water and ammonia. The kinetic study through the isoconversional method showed the presence of two major reactions, and the model-fitting approach identified the diffusion model as the best fit for the first reaction. The activation energy of the first reaction found with this method was 0.24 kJ g−1, comparable with the data obtained from the isoconversional method. The two-stage decomposition reactions were proposed, and the final calcination product was confirmed as magnesium pyrophosphate, which could be used in agriculture or dissolved in diluted mineral acids solution to separate the phosphate from the magnesium.
On-station performance evaluation of improved tropically adapted chicken breeds for smallholder poultry production systems in Nigeria
Authors: Bamidele O. , Sonaiya E. B. , Adebambo O. A. , Dessie T.
Published: December 2019

Background

Availability of appropriate genetics is important for the development of smallholder poultry (SHP). The biological potential of improved dual purpose chicken germplasms was evaluated in Nigeria.

Methods

A total of six breeds (Fulani, FUNAAB Alpha, Kuroiler, Noiler, Sasso, and Shika-Brown) were tested on-station, in deep litter houses at two test centres (Public and private facility) for 504 days. Birds were fed ad libitum for the first 140 days after which restricted feeding was practised.

Result

Lowest and highest hatchability of eggs set was 55% (FUNAAB Alpha) and 89% (Sasso), respectively. At 140 days, male live weights were 200%–300 % higher than the local chickens (975 g) except Shika-Brown (152%) and Fulani (135%). Lowest (p < 0.05) age at first egg was 119 days for Shika-Brown and 120 days for FUNAAB Alpha and Kuroiler. Highest hen-housed egg production was 192 for Shika-Brown, and feed intake per dozen eggs was lowest (p < 0.05) for Shika-Brown (2.9 kg) and FUNAAB Alpha (2.9 kg). Mortality rate of the locally sourced breeds (Fulani, FUNAAB Alpha, Noiler, and Shika-Brown) was significantly lower (p < 0.05) than the foreign-sourced breeds (Kuroiler, Sasso) during brooding, growing and laying.

Conclusion

Results from this study identified FUNAAB Alpha and Noiler as being more suitable for dual-purpose functions (egg and meat), while Sasso and Kuroiler (meat) and Shika-Brown (egg) were observed to be better suited for single purpose functions. These findings could guide the introduction of smallholder poultry-specific hybrid germplasms for the development of the smallholder poultry production systems in Nigeria.
Understanding high-emitting households in the UK through a cluster analysis
Authors: Wang Xinfang , Meng Ming
Published: December 2019

Anthropogenic climate change is a global problem that affects every country and each individual. It is largely caused by human beings emitting greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. In general, a small percentage of the population is responsible for a large amount of emissions. This paper focuses on high emitters and their CO2 emissions from energy use in UK homes. It applies a cluster approach, aiming to identify whether the high emitters comprise clusters where households in each cluster share similar characteristics but are different from the others. The data are mainly based on the Living Cost and Food survey in the UK. The results show that after equivalising both household emissions and income, the high emitters can be clustered into six groups which share similar characteristics within each group, but are different from the others in terms of income, age, household composition, category and size of the dwelling, and tenure type. The clustering results indicate that various combinations of socioeconomic factors, such as low-income single female living in an at least six-room property, or high-income retired couple owning a large detached house, could all lead to high CO2 emissions from energy use at home. Policymakers should target each high-emitter cluster differently to reduce CO2 emissions from energy consumption at home more effectively.
Intelligence, Authority and Blame Conformity: Co-witness Influence Is Moderated by the Perceived Competence of the Information Source
Authors: Mojtahedi Dara , Ioannou Maria , Hammond Laura
Published: December 2019

Previous research suggests that co-witness influence is heavily dependent on how eyewitnesses perceive the source of information, with perceived credibility, authority and memory accuracy identified as significant predictors. However, very little research has directly investigated the effects of perceived intelligence on co-witness influence. The present study used confederates to expose participants (N = 182) to misinformation about a witnessed event, prior to collecting their statements. Participants were paired up with a confederate who was presented as either a PhD student (high intelligence), police officer (high authority), neutral (no information provided) or completed the study individually (control). Results found that participants were significantly more likely to blame the wrong person for the crime if it had been suggested to them by a police officer or PhD student. Implications of the findings suggest that the characteristics and perceptions of co-witnesses can moderate the risks of statement contamination.
Recommendations for revising the energy label system for dishwashers: supporting sustainable development and usage through the interaction of energy labels, technical improvements and consumer behaviour
Authors: Brunzell Lena , Renström Roger
Published: December 2019

Historically, domestic chores such as washing dishes were all done by hand. Today it is estimated that 44% of the households in the EU are equipped with a dishwasher. In this article, we discuss the connections between technical developments, consumer behaviour and the test standard for energy labels. The aim of this study is to provide recommendations for future work that would strengthen the role of the energy label in order to promote the more sustainable technical development of household appliances. Technical developments are compared with the consequences of different consumer behaviour. It was found that technical developments could reduce annual energy use, but depending on the implemented technology, this is often complex and requires additional components. On the other hand, a consumer can easily increase energy usage by 50% without being aware of doing so, when goods are pre-treated, appliances incorrectly loaded, or inappropriate programs selected. Our recommendation is first of all to encourage the use of dishwashers as they consume less energy and water compared with washing up manually. A holistic approach should be taken to updating the energy labelling system. Actual consumer behaviour must be taken into account and, perhaps most importantly, as dishwashers are becoming ever more energy efficient, consumers must be educated in using the machines in an environmentally friendly way. We conclude that the energy labelling system is outdated; it must be fundamentally revised and must take into account consumer behaviour.
Midlife Work and Women’s Long-Term Health and Mortality
Authors: Caputo Jennifer , Pavalko Eliza K. , Hardy Melissa A.
Published: December 2019

Although paid work is a well-established predictor of health, several gaps in our knowledge about the relationship between adult work patterns and later health and mortality remain, including whether these benefits persist over long periods and whether they are dependent on subjective experiences with work. We draw on more than three decades of data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Mature Women to assess how labor force participation over a period of 20 years during midlife is related to mental and physical health and mortality over the following 16–25 years. We find that consistent work earlier in life continues to predict improved health and longevity over many years as women enter late life, and this relationship does not differ between women with positive and those with negative subjective work experiences. These findings add to knowledge about how key adult social experiences are related to health as individuals enter later life.
Large hydraulic safety margins protect Neotropical canopy rainforest tree species against hydraulic failure during drought
Authors: Ziegler Camille , Coste Sabrina , Stahl Clément , Delzon Sylvain , Levionnois Sébastien , Cazal Jocelyn , Cochard Hervé , Esquivel-Muelbert Adriane , Goret Jean-Yves , Heuret Patrick , Jaouen Gaëlle , Santiago Louis S. , Bonal Damien
Published: December 2019

Key message

Abundant Neotropical canopy-tree species are more resistant to drought-induced branch embolism than what is currently admitted. Large hydraulic safety margins protect them from hydraulic failure under actual drought conditions.

Context

Xylem vulnerability to embolism, which is associated to survival under extreme drought conditions, is being increasingly studied in the tropics, but data on the risk of hydraulic failure for lowland Neotropical rainforest canopy-tree species, thought to be highly vulnerable, are lacking.

Aims

The purpose of this study was to gain more knowledge on species drought-resistance characteristics in branches and leaves and the risk of hydraulic failure of abundant rainforest canopy-tree species during the dry season.

Methods

We first assessed the range of branch xylem vulnerability to embolism using the flow-centrifuge technique on 1-m-long sun-exposed branches and evaluated hydraulic safety margins with leaf turgor loss point and midday water potential during normal- and severe-intensity dry seasons for a large set of Amazonian rainforest canopy-tree species.

Results

Tree species exhibited a broad range of embolism resistance, with the pressure threshold inducing 50% loss of branch hydraulic conductivity varying from − 1.86 to − 7.63 MPa. Conversely, we found low variability in leaf turgor loss point and dry season midday leaf water potential, and mostly large, positive hydraulic safety margins.

Conclusions

Rainforest canopy-tree species growing under elevated mean annual precipitation can have high resistance to embolism and are more resistant than what was previously thought. Thanks to early leaf turgor loss and high embolism resistance, most species have a low risk of hydraulic failure and are well able to withstand normal and even severe dry seasons.