bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cyclin-Dependent Kinase Regulatory Subunit 2 Indicated Poor Prognosis and Facilitated Aggressive Phenotype of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Jie , Song Qianqian , Liu Jinxia , Lu Lina , Xu Yuqing , Zheng Wenjie
Published: October 2019

Cyclin-dependent kinase regulatory subunit 2 (CKS2) is a member of the cell cycle-dependent protein kinase subunit family, which is implicated as an oncogene in various malignancies. However, the clinical significance, oncogenic functions, and related mechanisms of CKS2 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remain largely unclear. In the present study, expression features and prognostic value of CKS2 were evaluated in the bioinformatic databases and HCC tissues. The effects of CKS2 on the malignant phenotypes of HCC cells were explored in vitro. According to the analyses of three bioinformatic databases, mRNA levels of CKS2 were elevated in HCC tissues compared with the normal tissues. Immunohistochemical assays found that high CKS2 expression was closely associated with liver cirrhosis (P=0.019), poor differentiation (P=0.02), portal vein invasion (P<0.001), TNM stage (P=0.019), tumor metastasis (P=0.008), and recurrence (P=0.003). The multivariate regression analyses suggested that CKS2 was an independent prognostic factor for overall survival (HR=2.088, P=0.014) and disease-free survival (HR=2.511, P=0.002) of HCC patients. Moreover, the bioinformatic analyses indicated that CKS2 might be associated with the malignant phenotypes in HCC progression. In addition, in vitro assays showed that CKS2 expression was higher in HCC cell lines than in normal liver cells. Knockdown of CKS2 remarkably repressed the proliferation, colony formation (P=0.0003), chemoresistance, migration (P=0.0047), and invasion (P=0.0012) of HCC cells. Taken together, overexpression of CKS2 was significantly correlated with poor prognosis of HCC patients and the malignant phenotypes of HCC cells, suggesting that it was a novel prognostic biomarker and potential target of HCC.
Protective Effects of Garlic and Cinnamon Oils on Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Albino Rats
Authors: Aly Salah M. , Fetaih Hamdy A. , Hassanin Abeer A. I. , Abomughaid Mosleh M. , Ismail Aliaa A.
Published: October 2019

Natural oils are traditional medicinal herbs, which have attracted interests for its potential anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities. The present work is aimed at evaluating the protective effect of garlic oil and cinnamon oil on diethylnitrosamine- (DENA-) and 2-acetylaminofluorene- (2-AAF-) induced p53 gene mutation and hepatocarcinogenesis in rats. Forty male albino rats were divided into 4 equal groups: control, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), garlic oil-HCC, and cinnamon oil-HCC. The HCC-induced group showed a significant decrease in the body mass and a significant elevation in the liver weight, alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), liver enzymes, hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA), and p53 protein expression levels as well as genetic mutations in intron 5 of p53 gene in the form of Single-Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) and insertions. In addition, the glutathione (GSH) level and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities were increased. While HCC rats pretreated with garlic oil or cinnamon oil were significantly reversed, these destructive actions increased GSH and SOD levels. The HCC-induced group showed histopathological features of liver cancer including hypercellularity, nuclear hyperchromasia, mitotic figures, and preneoplastic foci. On the other hand, HCC rats pretreated with garlic oil or cinnamon oil revealed partial reversal of normal liver architecture. The present findings proposed that these natural oils have the ability to improve liver function, significantly reduced the liver toxicity and HCC development. However, further sophisticated studies are recommended before their use as conventional therapeutics for HCC treatment.
Space for Calaspargase? A New Asparaginase for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Lew Glen
Published: October 2019

In December 2018, the FDA approved calaspargase pegol-mknl (Asperlas, Servier Pharmaceuticals) for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in children and young adults up to age 21. Asparaginase is a critical component in the treatment of ALL, but the niche for calaspargase within current treatment protocols is unclear.

See related article by Li et al., p. 328
50 anos sem Che
Authors: Menon Gustavo
Published: October 2019

Após 50 anos de sua morte, o pensamento de Che Guevara continua sendo objeto de discussões, reformulações e críticas. O seguinte estudo pretende debater a visão de América Latina e o conceito de revolução presente na obra de Ernesto Che Guevara. Para isso, à luz de seus textos sobre a guerrilha e a análise da Revolução cubana de 1959, o artigo estabelece as dimensões ideológicas do guevarismo e seu projeto para se pensar a revolução na América Latina. Com o objetivo de apontar as particularidades do pensamento de Che diante das demais correntes socialistas de seu tempo, em termos das táticas e estratégias revolucionárias, o presente estudo sinaliza para os avanços conceituais de suas contribuições. Ao mesmo tempo, sem perder de vista os equívocos e limites de suas formulações, o artigo, em seu término, almeja explanar uma crítica marxista em relação aos erros do foquismo e a percepção de Che Guevara sobre as condições materiais dos países latino-americanos durante os anos 1960.
Simboli nazionali, regimi di interazioni e populismo mediatico: prospettive sociosemiotiche
Authors: Demuru Paolo
Published: October 2019

A partir do diálogo entre a noção de modo simbólico elaborada por Umberto Eco e os estudos sobre os regimes de interação e sentido de Landowski, o presente trabalho analisa o papel dos símbolos nacionais nos discursos políticos e midiáticos que, desde as jornadas de junho de 2013 contra o aumento da tarifa do transporte público, acompanharam e alimentaram o percurso rumo ao impeachment de Dilma Rousseff e seus mais imediatos desdobramentos. Paralelamente, promove-se uma reflexão de cunho teórico, finalizada à exploração da carga estésico-passional que os símbolos podem mobilizar no curso das interações entre sujeitos sociais distintos, bem como da dialética entre regimes de sentido na qual eles se inscrevem ou da qual podem se tornar protagonistas.
Fragmentos de um discurso político. Intervenções críticas
Authors: Marrone Gianfranco
Published: October 2019

O presente ensaio defende a pertinência do olhar semiótico sobre a política, assim como o caráter político da pesquisa em semiótica. Por meio de desenvolvimentos acerca da organização discursiva na política contemporânea, e da ideia de discurso político, o autor elabora análises e reflexões acerca de temas e paixões com os quais ele identifica um caminho específico da semiótica para responder aos questionamentos promovidos pelo campo da política. Para isso, realiza intervenções críticas, enquanto postura semiótica fundadora. O trabalho visa também a desconstruir mitos e significações naturalizadas. Tais gestos semióticos são consequência da orientação geral que permite à produção dos discursos: uma postura política e, consequentemente, ética que orienta os processos semióticos de construção e de interpretação dos dispositivos discursivos.
O presidente está nu? Roupas e mundo ético
Authors: Possenti Sírio
Published: October 2019

Este ensaio tenta explicitar alguns traços do ethos de Bolsonaro, sem insistir muito nos efeitos eleitorais. Para tanto, faz algumas considerações sobre leitura de imagens pela análise do discurso, cita matérias jornalísticas sobre roupas de políticos, e, finalmente, dedica-se a descrever e interpretar sumariamente algumas imagens de Bolsonaro, sugerindo uma relação mais estreita entre ethos e mundo ético, entendido também como moral.
As transparências enganam
Authors: Aldama Juan Alonso
Published: October 2019

A desconfiança ameaça o discurso e a ação políticos. Porém, apenas a linguagem e, portanto, as “aparências” podem nos dizer a verdade, pois só conhecemos o mundo através delas. Não há outro acesso possível à realidade e à verdade, social ou natural, além daquilo que o mundo, natural ou construído, oferece à percepção de nossos sentidos e sobre o qual construímos seu próprio “sentido” . Diante da persistente desconfiança das aparências e, portanto, da linguagem – uma suspeita semiótica baseada na ideia de que a linguagem nada mais é do que um véu cuja função não é dizer ou fazer conhecer o mundo, mas sim ser um filtro (quase um feitiço) que nos impede de “sentir” a realidade exata das coisas e defender uma palavra política “transparente” e “imediata” – este artigo se propõe a analisar os conflitos enunciativos da construção do discurso político como “mediação” semiótica.
Por uma semiótica dirigida pela metodologia
Authors: Fontanille Jacques , Tsala-Effa Didier
Published: October 2019

Uma das dificuldades constantes da semiótica é a distância que se instalou entre as especulações teóricas e as reflexões epistemológicas, de um lado, e os métodos e resultados da descrição e da interpretação dos dados, de outro. Neste trabalho, tentando solucionar o problema, propomos inverter a ordem habitual das prioridades e considerar que a semiótica deve ser conduzida pela metodologia e não diretamente pela epistemologia. Acrescentamos dois critérios a esse pressuposto de base: (i) a capacidade que tem o método para dar conta da singularidade dos objetos analisados e (ii) a articulação desse método com o das disciplinas vizinhas que se ocupam dos mesmos objetos. Nossa proposta será articulada em duas etapas, portanto: (1) um exame detalhado, no âmbito da teoria da linguagem, das condições sob as quais é possível, ao mesmo tempo que a estruturação da forma, levar em consideração as variações substanciais e (2) uma reflexão, fundada nos resultados do primeiro ponto, a respeito do tratamento das singularidades práticas na interface entre a semiótica e a etno-antropologia. O conjunto desta proposta é uma contribuição em favor da diversificação controlada dos regimes metodológicos da semiótica.
Moses or Meddler? CMS Missionary J.R. Wolfe in Post-Tianjin Treaty Fujian
Authors: Ward Martin
Published: October 2019

By 1920 Fujian became one of the most missiologically prominent regions in China. This article examines the development of the veteran missionary of the Church Missionary Society, J.R. Wolfe’s missiological ideology in relation to the implementation of the Treaty of Tianjin in Fujian from 1862–1878. Amidst considerable frustration at perceived scant manpower and finances commensurate to his evangelistic zeal, he discovered the expedience of consular intervention in cases of persecution and came to seek it as a matter of course. His subsequent experiential epiphany of the British Government’s slighting of the articles in the Treaty relating to the safeguarding of the missionary enterprise exacerbated his sense of frustration. This article argues that the disparity between his hagiographical title of “Moses of Fujian” and the controversy surrounding his politicalness is irreconcilable, and that the example of Wolfe demonstrates the complexities of the evolution of missionary ideology and the importance of a thorough archival reappraisal.
Enhancement of Electrical Properties by a Composite FePc/CNT/C Cathode in a Bio-Electro-Fenton Microbial Fuel Cell System
Authors: Wang Yi-Ta , Chiou Chyow-San , Chang Shao-Yu , Chen Hua-Wei
Published: October 2019

This study focused on an iron phthalocyanine compound with aligned CNTs on the surface of a carbon felt electrode (FePc/CNT/C) to enhance the bio-electro-Fenton microbial fuel cell system cathodes reaction rate of hydrogen peroxide and the electrical plate. Experiments of polarization
curves and power density, decolorization of Reactive Black 5 (RB5), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) measured the characteristics of the cathode plate. FePc/CNT/C presented better electrical properties (open-circuit voltage, maximum current density, and maximum power density) than that
of CNT/C and C, as FePc is a catalyst and its planar structure could easily adhere to CNT to enhance the reduction reaction at the cathode and provide higher specific surface area. The optimal decolorization of RB5 dye, as achieved with the FePc/CNT/C electrode, was 61.79% among the three
cathode electrodes in the bio-electro-Fenton microbial fuel cell system, and the maximum number of hydroxyl radicals was generated for the cathode electrode of FePc/CNT/C. These results suggest that the bio-electro-Fenton microbial fuel cell system could be applied as an energy-saving and
efficient approach for dye-containing wastewater treatment.
High Specific Surface Area TiO2 Nanospheres for Hydrogen Production and Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Huang Dong , Liu Haixia , Bian Junwei , Li Tianduo , Huang Baibiao , Niu Qingfen
Published: October 2019

TiO2 nanospheres with high specific surface area and good crystallinity were prepared by a hydrothermal method using urea as the capping agent and isopropanol as the solvent. The capping agent effectively controlled the morphology of TiO2 nanospheres and led to
improved crystallinity. Using a solvent with a long carbon chain, such as isopropanol, also promoted the formation of TiO2 nanospheres. TiO2 nanospheres with different morphologies were prepared by adjusting the amount of urea. It was found that when TiO2-0.6
was used as the photocatalyst, highest rates of degradation of both methylene blue and rhodamine B under ultraviolet-visible light were observed. Moreover TiO2-0.6 also had the largest hydrogen production efficiency among the different TiO2 samples tested. Thus, TiO2
nanospheres have great development potential and application prospects in environmental management and new modes of energy utilization.
Fabrication and Comparison of Self-Organized Ag and Au Nanodots on Ti/MgO(001) Substrates
Authors: Kim Woo-Seong , Oh Kwang-Hun , Kim Tae-Hwan , Shin Seung-Hyun , Um Tae-Woong , Koh Jung-Hyuk , Kamiko Masao , Ha Jae-Geun
Published: October 2019

We analyze and compare the differences in the dewetting phenomena and crystal structure between Ag(5.0 nm) and Au(5.0 nm) layers deposited on a Ti(1.0 nm) seed layer coated onto a MgO(001) substrate. The samples are deposited at room temperature and annealed at 350–450 °C
for 5 h. The surfaces of both Ag/Ti and Au/Ti films exhibit a completely separated island structure, subsequently leading to the formation of a nanodot array after annealing. Based on atomic force microscopy (AFM) analysis, we conclude that the dewetting progression speed of Ag/Ti films is
higher than that of Au/Ti films. Based on X-ray diffraction (XRD) results, the Ti thin film acts as a seed layer, assisting the epitaxial growth of fcc-Ag(001) nanodots on the MgO(001) substrate, whereas in the case of Au/Ti, the Au layer grows non-epitaxially on the MgO(001) substrate, which
is related to the difference in the surface energies of Ag and Au. Furthermore, the optical absorbance spectra of the self-organized Ag and Au nanodots with the Ti seed layer are obtained in the visible light range and the optical properties of Ag and Au nanodots are compared.
Hydrothermal Synthesis of N-Doped Graphene for Supercapacitor Electrodes
Authors: Gorenskaia Elena N. , Kholkhoev Bato Ch. , Makotchenko Viktor G. , Ivanova Mariia N. , Fedorov Vladimir E. , Burdukovskii Vitaliy F.
Published: October 2019

N-doped graphene based on graphene oxide and 3,3′,4,4′-tetraaminodiphenyl oxide (TADPO) was obtained using a one-step hydrothermal process. The resulting materials were fully characterized using elemental analysis, infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, thermogravimetric
analysis, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron micrographs, and transmission electron microscopy. The findings reveal that benzimidazole rings were formed during the reaction, and the mass content of nitrogen in the obtained material varied from 12.3% to 14.7%, depending on the initial concentration
of TADPO. Owing to the redox activity of benzimidazole rings, the new N-doped graphene materials demonstrated a high specific capacitance, reaching 340 F g−1 at 0.1 A g−1, which was significantly higher than that of the sample of reduced graphene oxide obtained
under similar conditions without the use of TADPO (169 F g−1 at 0.1 A g−1). The resulting material also exhibited good cyclic stability after 5000 cycles.
Analog Complementary Metal–Oxide–Semiconductor Integrate-and-Fire Neuron Circuit for Overflow Retaining in Hardware Spiking Neural Networks
Authors: Hwang Sungmin , Lee Jeong-Jun , Kwon Min-Woo , Baek Myung-Hyun , Jang Taejin , Chang Jeesoo , Lee Jong-Ho , Park Byung-Gook
Published: October 2019

The spiking neural network (SNN) is regarded as the third generation of an artificial neural network (ANN). In order to realize a high-performance SNN, an integrate-and-fire (I&F) neuron, one of the key elements in an SNN, must retain the overflow in its membrane after firing. This
paper presents an analog CMOS I&F neuron circuit for overflow retaining. Compared with the conventional I&F neuron circuit, the basic operation of the proposed circuit is confirmed in a circuit-level simulation. Furthermore, a single-layer SNN simulation was also performed to demonstrate
the effect of the proposed circuit on neural network applications by comparing the raster plots from the circuit-level simulation with those from a high-level simulation. These results demonstrate the potential of the I&F neuron circuit with overflow retaining characteristics to be utilized
in upcoming high-performance hardware SNN systems.
Effect of Annealing on Morphology and Photoluminescence of WO3 Nanowires Deposited by Glancing Angle Deposition Techniques
Authors: Rajkumari Rajshree , Singh Naorem Khelchand
Published: October 2019

In this article, vertically aligned WO3 nanowires were synthesized by employing the glancing angle deposition technique. The significant improvement in the crystallinity and surface morphology of the synthesized WO3 nanowires were observed for 500 °C annealed
samples and beyond that temperature it starts degrading. The X-ray diffraction confirmed the different phase transition after annealing. Increase in crystallite size from 68.93 nm to 77.41 nm was observed with the increase in annealing temperature from 300 °C to 500 °C. Upon 250 nm
excitation, a broad blue emission aroused by near band edge emission is observed. Also, other emission peaks were observed due to the localized states of oxygen vacancies in the conduction band of WO3. Fourier transform infrared result shows the bonding of WO3 nanowires
and intensity were greatly enhanced as the annealing temperature increases up to 500 °C. These enhancements in the properties could be applicable for the development of WO3 based nanodevices.
Synthesis of Copper Sulfide Nanoparticles by Thermal Decomposition Approach and Morphology Dependent Peroxidase-Like Activity
Authors: Sharma Vanita , Jeevanandam P.
Published: October 2019

Copper sulfide nanoparticles have been employed as artificial mimics for peroxidase-like activity. In the present study, copper sulfide nanoparticles with four different morphologies have been synthesized by thermal decomposition of cyclo-tri-μ-thioacetamide-tris(chlorocopper(I))
complex ([Cu3TAA3Cl3]) at 200 °C in different solvents such as diphenyl ether, ethylene glycol, 1-octadecene and also without any solvent. Hierarchical copper sulfide nanostructures are formed when the complex is decomposed in the absence of solvent, in
diphenyl ether, and 1-octadecene while in the case of ethylene glycol, randomly agglomerated nanoparticles are formed. The precursor complex ([Cu3TAA3Cl3]) as well as copper sulfide nanoparticles were characterized using an array of techniques and after characterization,
the peroxidase-like activity of copper sulfide nanoparticles was investigated.Morphologically different copper sulfide nanoparticles possess different exposed facets and due to this, the peroxidase-like activity was different among different morphologies.
Preparation of Mirabilite Microparticles via the Anti-Solvent Recrystallization Process
Authors: He Da-Wei , Wang Zhou
Published: October 2019

Mirabilite microparticles was prepared via the anti-solvent recrystallization process. The solvent-antisolvent system was constructed by adding saturated aqueous solution of mirabilite into absolute ethanol. The best mixing mode and the mixing ratio, the stirring time and the droplet
acceleration were selected by single factor experiments. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to characterize the generated mirabilite microparticles. The optimal one-factor conditions were solvent-anti-solvent ratio of 1:4, stirring for 40 min and droplet acceleration of 2 mL·min−1.
Under the optimal conditions, the mirabilite microparticles with complete hexahedral form and uniform surface were obtained, the average particle size was about 5 μm.
A One-Pot Hydrothermal Synthesis of Eu/BiVO4 Enhanced Visible-Light-Driven Photocatalyst for Degradation of Tetracycline
Authors: Pei Zhenzhao , Jia Heng , Zhang Yulong , Wang Pei , Liu Yabao , Cui Weigang , Xu Jiaqi , Xie Jialin
Published: October 2019

Eu/BiVO4 photocatalyst was synthesized by a facile one-step hydrothermal method. The structures and morphologies of Eu/BiVO4 photocatalysts were investigated by XRD, SEM and FT-IR and their photocatalytic activity was evaluated by the degradation of tetracycline
hydrochloride (TCH) under the visible light irradiation. From the photocatalytic activity test, 1% Eu/BiVO4 displayed more superior photodegradation efficiency with 91.4% degradation efficiency of TCH in 150 min by contrast with 77.3% degradation rate of pure BiVO4. The
mechanism has been explored that h+ is the primary active species, and ·OH is a secondary active substance in the photocatalytic process.
A Sustainable Route to Synthesize Graphene Oxide/Ordered Mesoporous Carbon as Effect Nanocomposite Adsorbent
Authors: Liou Tzong-Horng , Wang Pie-Ying
Published: October 2019

Rice husk is an agricultural waste that provides an alternative renewable source of bioenergy. Burning rice husk can produce rice husk ash. The rice husk ash is a potential resource of low-cost precursor for synthesizing high value-added materials. This paper reports the synthesis of
SBA-15 mesoporous silica from recycled rice husk ash waste. Next, graphene oxide/ordered mesoporous carbon (GO/CMK-3) nanocomposite was synthesized using the SBA-15 template. The composite was investigated by X-ray diffractometer, field-emission scanning electron microscope, transmission electron
microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectrometer, Raman spectrometer and surface area analyzer. Experimental results confirmed that GO/CMK-3 composite possessed high surface area (936 m2/g), large pore volume (1.077 cm3/g), and uniform pore size (4.35 nm). The mesopore
structure was not destroyed by the introduction of GO. Methylene blue was employed as an adsorbate to evaluate the adsorption capacity of GO/CMK-3 composite. The GO/CMK-3 revealed much higher adsorption capacity levels than did pure CMK-3 and SBA-15. The adsorption capacity decreased with
increasing solution temperature, and increasing initial concentration of dye. The thermodynamic observation indicated that the total adsorption process was spontaneous and exothermic. The conversion of rice husk ash waste into GO/CMK-3 composites can be regarded as an economically beneficial
by-product for reducing environmental pollution.
Diameter-Modulated Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes Without Bamboo-Like Partitions: Growth, Structure and Deformation Behaviors
Authors: Hayashi Tetsushi , Kohno Hideo
Published: October 2019

Periodically diameter-modulated stack-type-multi-walled carbon nanotubes are grown from Fe–Ga catalyst nanoparticles using palmitic acid as a carbon source. A model for their formation mechanism is proposed: stick-slip motion of a catalyst nanoparticle in the growing nanotube
results in periodic changes of diameter and wall thickness, and formation of inner partitions is suppressed when the degree of supersaturation is low. In addition, behaviors of nanotubes in Joule heating, bending, and under a tensile load were observed in-situ by scanning electron microscopy
using micro-manipurators.
Dependence of the V/III Ratio on Indium Incorporation in InGaN Films Grown by Metalorganic Vapour Phase Epitaxy
Authors: Suresh Kumar V. , Ji S. Y. , Zhang Y. T. , Shojiki K. , Choi J. H. , Kimura T. , Hanada T. , Katayama R. , Matsuoka T.
Published: October 2019

InGaN epitaxial layers were grown on c-plane sapphire substrates using the metalorganic vapour phase epitaxy (MOVPE) system at 760 °C. By varying the total flow rate of group-III sources (TMI+TEG) with a fixed molar ratio of group-III sources [TMI/(TMI+TEG)], the influence
of V/III ratio were investigated from 4500 to 20000. The grown N-polar InGaN layers were investigated by atomic force microscopy and it is found that the surface roughness decreases with increasing the V/III ratios. High resolution X-ray diffraction analyses show that the phase separation
decreases with increasing the V/III ratios. Photoluminescence measurements reveal that the peak position of the band-edge emission shifted toward the shorter wavelength with increasing the V/III ratios. Reciprocal space mapping (RSM) analyses were carried out on InGaN films. At low V/III ratio,
the phase separation can be detected in InGaN films.
Co/Co3O4 Based Nanoparticles and Their Polymer Composites for Tuned Electromagnetic Interference Shielding Application
Authors: Tiwari Madhvi , Arya M. A. , More Priyesh V. , Parmar Saurabh , Datar Suwarna , Khanna Pawan K.
Published: October 2019

The magnetic properties of the metal nanoparticles (NPs) can play remarkable role in electromagnetic interference shielding (EMI Shielding) of many defence and commercial electronic devices. In the present work, coconut oil and PVA capped magnetic cobalt/cobalt oxide nanoparticles (Co/Co3O4
NPs) were synthesized by chemical reduction method and impregnated in polymer matrix to verify their EMI shielding behaviour. The coconut oil capped Co/Co3O4 NPs with presence of hcp and fcc phases were prepared in the size domain of 7–10 nm and the effect of surfactant
(the oil) on size and oxidation state was studied by varying the ratios. The shielding efficiencies of Co/Co3O4 NPs PVA nanocomposites were analysed by using vector network analyser (VNA) in X- and Ku-band ranging from 8 GHz–18 GHz. The VNA results showed
increased shielding efficiency with increasing concentration of NPs.
Manganese Oxide Nanoarchitectures as Chemoresistive Gas Sensors to Monitor Fruit Ripening
Authors: Bigiani Lorenzo , Zappa Dario , Comini Elisabetta , Maccato Chiara , Gasparotto Alberto , Barreca Davide
Published: October 2019

The efficient detection of low-concentration ethylene is a challenging issue of key importance for food quality control end-uses. Herein, we report on the fabrication of MnO2-based nanoarchitectures by a two-step plasma-assisted process, consisting in the initial chemical
vapor deposition of MnO2 (host) on polycrystalline Al2O3 substrates and the subsequent functionalization with Ag and Au-based nanoparticles (guest) by sputtering processes. The resulting composites, characterized by a high Ag/Au dispersion and
an effective host-guest contact, were tested for the first time as chemoresistive gas sensors for ethylene recognition at low temperatures. The high sensitivity and promising responses, enhanced by metal particle introduction, candidate the target systems as attractive platforms for
the eventual monitoring of vegetables/fruits ripening and ageing.
The influence of extrinsic and intrinsic variables on children’s reading frequency and attitudes: An exploration using an artificial neural network
Authors: Mat Roni Saiyidi , Merga Margaret Kristin
Published: October 2019

Children’s attitudes towards, and frequency of recreational reading influence their reading skill level. The aim of this study was to determine the relative influence of research-supported intrinsic and extrinsic variables that can shape this attitude and practice, and to investigate the use of artificial neural network as an adjunct approach in such analysis. Data from 997 Australian students in primary Years 4 and 6 were analysed to examine the influence of 10 variables on reading frequency and attitudes. Data were subject to analysis using artificial neural network, binomial logistic regression and linear regression. The results from the three methods of analysis indicate that library visitation, perception of importance and early literacy are the top three ranked variables in artificial neural network, with all three also significant ( p < .001) in binomial logistic regression and linear regression. Providing students regular opportunity for library visitation may be a valuable intervention for educators and parents seeking to enhance children’s reading frequency and attitudes.
Three Opportunities for the Future of Juvenile Forensic Assessment
Authors: Grisso Thomas
Published: October 2019

Legal and social circumstances now offer the field of juvenile forensic assessment several opportunities to expand its identity, influence, and value to society. These opportunities include (a) conceptualizing an assessment domain called evaluations for developmental sentencing, (b) creating developmental forensic evaluations of emerging adults, and (c) adapting juvenile forensic assessments to the nation’s increasing ethnic and cultural diversity. If successfully attempted, these opportunities could transform juvenile forensic assessment’s identity, reimagining itself as developmental forensic assessment applied to offenders in both juvenile and criminal courts.
A Modified Laryngeal Stent for Glotto-Subglottic Stenosis: A Novel Stent for Better Outcomes
Authors: Wilcox Jeffrey D. , Nassar Michel
Published: October 2019

Management of laryngotracheal stenosis is challenging and laryngotracheal stenosis is generally managed with laryngotracheal reconstruction. Stents are often used as part of the reconstructive surgery. Although most stents adequately stabilize the reconstruction during healing, they often do a poor job of mimicking glottic anatomy, particularly the anterior glottis. Here, we present a modified suprastomal stent designed to stabilize reconstruction after laryngotracheal reconstruction while also improving postoperative glottic anatomy and function. The case of a 15-year-old tracheostomy-dependent patient with glotto-subglottic stenosis who underwent laryngotracheal reconstruction using this modified stent is described. The patient had an excellent outcome with decannulation of her tracheostomy and significant improvement in voice.
Surgical Instrument Optimization to Reduce Instrument Processing and Operating Room Setup Time
Authors: Crosby Lauren , Lortie Eric , Rotenberg Brian , Sowerby Leigh
Published: October 2019

Objective

As health care expenditures rise, novel ways to increase efficiency are sought. The operating room (OR) represents an area where there is opportunity to optimize work flow and supply use. Evidence suggests that instrument redundancy in the OR tends to be high and that direct cost savings can be achieved by “optimizing” surgical trays. The purpose of this study was to quantify the potential time savings associated with surgical tray optimization.

Methods

Instrument utilization was reviewed for 4 procedures: tonsillectomy, sinus surgery, septoplasty, and septorhinoplasty. Instruments used in <20% of cases were excluded. Data on tray assembly time in the central processing department and instrument setup time in the OR were prospectively collected over a 3‐month period before and after tray optimization. Student’s t test (α = 0.05) was used to determine whether times were significantly different following optimization.

Results

Tray assembly times were found to be significantly shorter following optimization, with percentage reduction in time ranging from 58% to 66% (P <. 05). In the OR, percentage reduction in setup time ranged from 26% to 37% (P <. 05). Variability in assembly and setup times was also found to be narrower postoptimization.

Discussion

Tray optimization may reduce stress and adverse events and allow managers to better estimate staffing requirements. Cost‐benefits could not be determined given a limited understanding of how departments choose to redistribute time savings.

Implications for Practice

Measurable and significant time savings can be achieved by assessing instrument utilization rates and reducing tray redundancy, leading to lower performance variability and improved efficiency.
Alcohol myopia and the distracting effects of hair in face recognition
Authors: Harvey Alistair J , Tomlinson Danny A
Published: October 2019

Background:

According to alcohol myopia theory, alcohol reduces cognitive resources and restricts the drinker’s attention to only the more prominent aspects of a visual scene. As human hairstyles are often salient and serve as important facial recognition cues, we consider whether alcohol restricts attention to this region of faces upon initial viewing.

Aims:

Participants with higher breath alcohol concentrations just prior to encoding a series of unfamiliar faces were expected to be poorer than more sober counterparts at recognising the internal but not external features of those faces at test.

Methods:

Drinkers in a nearby bar ( n=76) were breathalysed and then shown a sequence of 21 full face photos. After a filled five-minute retention interval they completed a facial recognition task requiring them to identify the full, internal or external region of each of these among a sequence of 21 previously unseen (part or whole) faces.

Results:

As predicted, higher breath concentrations were associated with poorer discrimination of internal but not external face regions.

Conclusions:

Our findings suggest that alcohol restricts unfamiliar face encoding by narrowing the scope of attention to the exterior region of unfamiliar faces. This has important implications for drunk eyewitness accuracy, though further investigation is needed to see if the effect is mediated by gender, hair length and face feature distinctiveness.
A generalizable equilibrium model for bending soft arms with longitudinal actuators
Authors: Olson Gina , Chow Scott , Nicolai Austin , Branyan Callie , Hollinger Geoffrey , Mengüç Yiğit
Published: October 2019

Current models of bending in soft arms are formulated in terms of experimentally determined, arm-specific parameters, which cannot evaluate fundamental differences in soft robot arm design. Existing models are successful at improving control of individual arms but do not give insight into how the structure of the arm affects the arm’s capabilities. For example, omnidirectional soft robot arms most frequently have three parallel actuators, but may have four or more, while common biological arms, including octopuses, have tens of distinct longitudinal muscle bundles. This article presents a quasi-static analytical model of soft arms bent with longitudinal actuators, based on equilibrium principles and assuming an unknown neutral axis location. The model is presented as a generalizable framework and specifically implemented for an arm with [Formula: see text] fluid-driven actuators, a subset of which are pressurized to induce a bend with a certain curvature and direction. The presented implementation is validated experimentally using planar (2D) and spatial (3D) bends. The planar model is used to initially estimate pressure for a closed-loop curvature control system and to bound the accessible configurations for a rapidly-exploring random trees (RRT) motion planner. A three-segment planar arm is demonstrated to navigate along a planned trajectory through a gap in a wall. Finally, the model is used to explore how the arm morphology affects maximum curvature and directional resolution. This research analytically connects soft arm structure and actuator behavior to unloaded arm performance, and the results may be used to methodically design soft robot arms.
Minimally invasive versus open radical cystectomy for bladder cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Shi Hongbin , Li Jiangsong , Li Kui , Yang Xiaobo , Zhu Zaisheng , Tian Daxue
Published: October 2019

Background

We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the efficacy and safety of minimally invasive radical cystectomy (MIRC) versus open radical cystectomy (ORC) for bladder cancer.

Methods

We searched the EMBASE and MEDLINE databases to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of MIRC versus ORC in the treatment of bladder cancer.

Results

Eight articles describing nine RCTs (803 patients) were analyzed. No significant differences were found between MIRC and ORC in two oncologic outcomes: the recurrence rate and mortality. Additionally, no significant differences were found in three pathologic outcomes: lymph node yield, positive lymph nodes, and positive surgical margins. With respect to perioperative outcomes, however, MIRC showed a significantly longer operating time, less estimated blood loss, lower blood transfusion rate, shorter time to regular diet, and shorter length of hospital stay than ORC. The incidence of complications was similar between the two techniques. We found no statistically significant differences in the above outcomes between robot-assisted radical cystectomy and ORC or between laparoscopic radical cystectomy and ORC with the exception of the complication rate.

Conclusions

MIRC is an effective and safe surgical approach in the treatment of bladder cancer. However, a large-scale multicenter RCT is needed to confirm these findings.
Exploring Extramission: Plato’s Intraocular “Fire” Revisited
Authors: Schott G. D.
Published: October 2019

The notion that vision results from light rays being emitted by the eyes, extramission, originated over 2,000 years ago, but was finally disproved by Kepler around 1600. Yet extramission continues to hold sway, not only in much popular thinking but also as some form of explanation for various visual phenomena. It is suggested that extramission today is a concept that concerns not the eyes and optics but gaze and perception.
Predictors of episodic migraine transformation to chronic migraine: A systematic review and meta-analysis of observational cohort studies
Authors: Xu Jingjing , Kong Fanyi , Buse Dawn C
Published: October 2019

Background and purpose

An estimated 2.5–3.1% of people with episodic migraine develop chronic migraine in a year. Several risk factors are associated with an increased risk for this transformation. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to provide quantitative and qualitative data on predictors of this transformation.

Methods

An electronic search was conducted for published, prospective, cohort studies that reported risk factors for chronic migraine among people with episodic migraine. Risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale. Quality of evidence was determined according to the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) guidelines. Effect estimates were retrieved and summarized using risk ratios.

Results

Of 5695 identified publications, 11 were eligible for inclusion. The pooled analysis (GRADE system) found “high” evidence for monthly headache day frequency ≥ 10 (risk ratio = 5.95), “moderate” evidence for depression (risk ratio = 1.58), monthly headache day frequency ≥ 5 (risk ratio = 3.18), and annual household income ≥ $50,000 (risk ratio = 0.65) and “very low” evidence for allodynia (risk ratio = 1.40) and medication overuse (risk ratio = 8.82) in predicting progression to chronic migraine.

Conclusions

High frequency episodic migraine and depression have high quality evidence as predictors of the transformation from episodic migraine to chronic migraine, while annual household income over $50,000 may be protective.
Positions and figurations in group analytic psychotherapy: an account of therapeutic processes in the individual as part of the group
Authors: Liveras Matthew
Published: October 2019

In this article I develop an account of therapeutic change in terms of the dynamics of positioning within figurations.

I argue that the concepts of ‘positioning’ and ‘figurations’ can be integrated to describe processes of change occurring both at the level of the group and of the individual. I propose that figurations in the group are mutative, provoking change in the individuals within them.

I go on to suggest that the psyche is structured by relational positions and that as the individual is able to develop the capacity for increased positional flexibility within the matrix of the group, parallel changes occur in the patient’s internal world. This idea is considered in relation to Foulkes’ concept of ego training in action.
Black and White Self-Identified Latinx Respondents and Perceived Psychological Distress and Impairment
Authors: Mena Jasmine A. , Durden T. Elizabeth , Bresette Sarah E. , McCready Taylor
Published: October 2019

The influence of racial differences on perceived psychological distress and impairment was examined with a nationally representative sample of Black and White Latinxs. The study sample was selected from multiple years of the National Health Interview Survey and included 30,519 self-identified Black and White Latinxs between the ages of 26 and 64 years. Results indicated that Black Latinxs reported higher levels of psychological distress—a statistically significant difference—compared to White Latinxs after accounting for demographic (age, gender, marital status, and nativity) and socioeconomic status (level of education and health insurance) indicators. Results also indicated that Black and White Latinxs did not differ on impairment associated with perceived psychological distress. The practice of aggregating Black and White Latinxs obscures the racialized experiences reported by Black Latinxs and associated higher levels of psychological distress. Implications and future directions are discussed.
Demonstrating Conceptual Understanding of Fraction Arithmetic: An Analysis of Pre-Service Special and General Educators’ Visual Representations
Authors: Morano Stephanie , Riccomini Paul J.
Published: October 2019

To provide effective fractions instruction, teachers need deep understanding of fraction concepts (i.e., content knowledge) and skill in using visual representations of fractions to support student learning (i.e., pedagogical content knowledge); yet, research indicates that many pre- and in-service teachers lack knowledge in both areas. The present study examines the performance of 55 pre-service teachers (PSTs) on tasks assessing their procedural and conceptual knowledge of fractions, including a test of their ability to generate visual representations and story problems to model fraction multiplication and division. PSTs demonstrated high levels of procedural and conceptual knowledge of fraction addition and subtraction, moderate procedural knowledge for fraction multiplication and division, and relatively weak conceptual knowledge of fraction multiplication and division. Weak conceptual knowledge was related to inability to accurately model fraction multiplication and division using visual representations and story problems. Implications for research and practice are presented.
Impaired Recognition of Facial Emotion in Patients With Parkinson Disease Under Dopamine Therapy
Authors: Palmeri Rosanna , Buono Viviana Lo , Bonanno Lilla , Allone Cettina , Drago Nancy , Sorbera Chiara , Cimino Vincenzo , di Lorenzo Giuseppe , Bramanti Alessia , Marino Silvia
Published: October 2019

Introduction:

Parkinson disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor and nonmotor symptoms. The impaired ability to recognize facial emotion expressions represents an important nonmotor symptom. The aim of this study is to investigate the ability in recognizing facial emotion expressions in patients with PD under dopamine replacement therapy.

Methods:

Thirty medicated patients with PD and 15 healthy controls (HC) were enrolled. All participants performed the Ekman 60-Faces test for emotional recognition. All patients underwent a neuropsychological evaluation for global cognitive functioning, depression, and anxiety.

Results:

Patients with PD were impaired in recognizing emotions. Significant differences between PD and HC were found in Ekman 60-Faces test scores ( P < .001), and in Ekman 60-Faces test subscales, in particular, sadness, fear, disgust, anger, and surprise ( P < .001).

Conclusions:

The nigrostriatal dopaminergic depletion seems to determine emotional information processing dysfunction. This relevant nonmotor symptom could have consequences in daily living reducing interactions and social behavioral competence.
Design and experimental research on electromagnetic active suspension with energy-saving perspective
Authors: Wang Jiajia , Chen Long , Wang Ruochen , Meng Xiangpeng , Shi Dehua
Published: October 2019

A hydraulic damper can improve system reliability when it is introduced to an electromagnetic active suspension equipped with a linear motor. In this study, the effect of damping value on the energy consumption of an electromagnetic active suspension system is investigated with an energy-saving perspective. A kinetic model of electromagnetic active suspension is established, and a controller is designed on the basis of a linear quadratic regulator. Three different levels of roads are then chosen as driving conditions, and the corresponding control targets are set. The effects of damping value on energy consumption and dynamic performance of electromagnetic active suspension under different driving conditions are determined. Results show that damping value does not affect dynamic performance at the same weighting factor or the same driving condition in a time domain. Compared with that of an electromagnetic active suspension without a damper in parallel, the energy consumption of the electromagnetic active suspension system initially decreases and subsequently increases as the damping value increases. Therefore, appropriate damping values can significantly reduce energy consumption. In a frequency domain, appropriate damping values can improve driving safety but can slightly deteriorate ride comfort. An integrated electromagnetic actuator is also designed by integrating the linear motor with the hydraulic damper to construct a practical system structure. These parameters are optimized to improve air-gap magnetic field strength. Thus, the initial design of the structure and dimension of the electromagnetic active suspension system is completed. Finally, the prototype is produced and a 1/4 bench test is also conducted to verify the correctness of theoretical research.
Corporate governance and corporate environmental investments: Evidence from China
Authors: Li Qiang , Ruan Wenjuan , Sun Tiantian , Xiang Erwei
Published: October 2019

Using a data set of Chinese listed companies over the period 2008 to 2015, this paper empirically examines whether corporate governance affects the environmental investment decisions. We find that the separation of controlling shareholder’s control right and cash flow right is negatively correlated to corporate environmental investment. Moreover, managerial ownership strengthens the abovementioned negative correlation, which is consistent with the controlling shareholder–manager collusion hypothesis. A further test suggests that internal control effectively weakens the controlling shareholder–manager collusion in their environmental investment decisions.