bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THE USE OF TASK BASED LANGUAGE TEACHING (TBLT) AS TO IMPROVE DESCRIPTIVE WRITING SKILLS
Authors: Inayanti Inayanti , Halimi Sisilia Setiawati
Published: August 2019

Writing skills are one of the skills that must be mastered by language learners. As an effort to improve writing skills, the researcher uses the Task Based Language Teaching (TBLT) approach. The TBLT approach is carried out on 19 level 1 students of the English Literature study program in learning descriptive writing skills in English. The type of research conducted is Classroom Action Research (CAR) in collaboration with lecturers of Writing 1 class. The research is supported by qualitative and quantitative data to determine the students’ improvement in the process of learning descriptive writing using TBLT. The results show a significant increase in the results of descriptive writing tests conducted in the first and second cycles. In addition, the use of TBLT can motivate students in the learning process. The results of this study were obtained based on the grades of the descriptive writing tests, observations and questionnaires. The results of the post-test indicate an increase in the average student score to 85.6 from the average pre-test score of 62.2. Finally, the results of the questionnaire also show that almost all students agreed to use TBLT as a guide in Descriptive writing, and it has proven to be able to improve the students’ writing skills.
Bioremediation of engine-oil contaminated soil using local residual organic matter
Authors: Robichaud Kawina , Lebeau Miriam , Martineau Sylvain , Amyot Marc
Published: August 2019

Soil remediation industries continue to seek technologies to speed-up treatment and reduce operating costs. Some processes are energy intensive and, in some cases, transport can be the main source of carbon emissions. Residual fertilizing materials (RFM), such as organic residues, have the potential to be beneficial bioremediation agents. Following a circular economy framework, we investigated the feasibility of sourcing RFMs locally to reduce transport and assess possible bioremediation efficiency gains. RFMs were recruited within 100 km of the treatment site: ramial chipped wood (RCW), horse manure (MANR) and brewer spent grain (BSG). They were added to the land treatment unit’s baseline fertilizer treatment (FERT, “F”) to measure if they improved the remediation efficiency of an engine oil-contaminated soil (7,500 ± 100 mg kg−1). Results indicate that MANR-F was the only amendment more effective than FERT for petroleum hydrocarbons (PHC) reduction, while emitting the least CO2overall. RCW-F was equivalent to FERT but retained more moisture. Although BSG contributed the most nitrogen to the soil, BSG-F retained excessive moisture, emitted more volatile organic compounds, contained less soil O2, and was less effective than the baseline treatment. Significantly more of the C16–C22fraction was removed (63% ± 22%) than all other fractions (C22–C28, C28–C34, C34–C40), which were equally removed. Microbial community-level physiological profiling was conducted with Biolog Ecoplates™, and catabolic diversity differed between treatments (utilization rates of 31 carbon sources). MANR-F has the potential to increase PHC-remediation speed and efficiency compared to inorganic fertilizer alone. Other RFM promote moisture retention and diverse microbial catabolic activity. A variety of RFM are present across the globe and some can offer low-cost amendments to boost remediation efficiency, while reducing treatment time compared to traditional fertilizer-only methods.
Association of genetic polymorphisms in SOD2, SOD3, GPX3, and GSTT1 with hypertriglyceridemia and low HDL-C level in subjects with high risk of coronary artery disease
Authors: Decharatchakul Nisa , Settasatian Chatri , Settasatian Nongnuch , Komanasin Nantarat , Kukongviriyapan Upa , Intharaphet Phongsak , Senthong Vichai
Published: August 2019

Background

Oxidative stress modulates insulin resistant-related atherogenic dyslipidemia: hypertriglyceridemia (HTG) and low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) level. Gene polymorphisms in superoxide dismutase (SOD2 and SOD3), glutathione peroxidase-3 (GPX3), and glutathione S-transferase theta-1 (GSTT1) may enable oxidative stress-related lipid abnormalities and severity of coronary atherosclerosis. The present study investigated the associations of antioxidant-related gene polymorphisms with atherogenic dyslipidemia and atherosclerotic severity in subjects with high risk of coronary artery disease (CAD).

Methods

Study population comprises of 396 subjects with high risk of CAD. Gene polymorphisms: SOD2 rs4880, SOD3 rs2536512 and rs2855262, GPX rs3828599, and GSTT1 (deletion) were evaluated the associations with HTG, low HDL-C, high TG/HDL-C ratio, and severity of coronary atherosclerosis.

Results

SOD2 rs4880-CC, SOD3 rs2536512-AA, rs2855262-CC, and GPX3 rs3828599-AA, but not GSTT1-/- individually increased risk of HTG combined with low HDL-C level. With a combination of five risk-genotypes as a genetic risk score (GRS), GRS ≥ 6 increased risks of low HDL-C, high TG/HDL-C ratio, and HTG combined with low HDL-C, comparing with GRS 0–2 [respective adjusted ORs (95% CI) = 2.70 (1.24–5.85), 3.11 (1.55–6.23), and 5.73 (2.22–14.77)]. Gene polymorphisms, though, were not directly associated with severity of coronary atherosclerosis; high TG/HDL-C ratio was associated with coronary atherosclerotic severity [OR = 2.26 (95% CI [1.17–4.34])].

Conclusion

Combined polymorphisms in antioxidant-related genes increased the risk of dyslipidemia related to atherosclerotic severity, suggesting the combined antioxidant-related gene polymorphisms as predictor of atherogenic dyslipidemia.
Identification of a novel four-lncRNA signature as a prognostic indicator in cirrhotic hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Ma Linkun , Deng Cunliang
Published: August 2019

Background

Many studies have shown that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNA) are closely associated with the occurrence and development of various tumors and have the potential to be prognostic markers. Moreover, cirrhosis is an important prognostic risk factors in patients with liver cancer. Some studies have reported that lncRNA-related prognostic models have been used to predict overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, no one has constructed a prognostic lncRNA model only in patients with cirrhotic HCC. Thus, it is necessary to screen novel potential lncRNA markers for improve the prognosis of cirrhotic HCC patients.

Methods

The probe expression profile dataset (GSE14520–GPL3921) from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), which included 204 cirrhotic HCC samples, was reannotated and the lncRNA and mRNA expression dataset was obtained. The patients were randomly assigned to either the training set (n = 103) and testing set (n = 100). Univariate cox regression and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) model were applied to screen lncRNAs linked to the OS of cirrhotic HCC in the training set. The lncRNAs having significant correlation with OS were then selected and the multivariate Cox regression model was implemented to construct the prognostic score model. Whether or not this model was related to RFS in the training set was simultaneously determined. The testing set was used to validate the lncRNA risk score model. A risk score based on the lncRNA signature was used for stratified analysis of different clinical features to test their prognostic performance. The prognostic lncRNA-related protein genes were identified by the co-expression matrix of lncRNA-mRNA, and the function of these lncRNAs was predicted through the enrichment of these co-expression genes.

Results

The signature consisted of four lncRNAs:AC093797.1,POLR2J4,AL121748.1 and AL162231.4. The risk model was closely correlated with the OS of cirrhotic HCC in the training cohort, with a hazard ratio (HR) of 3.650 (95% CI [1.761–7.566]) and log-rank P value of 0.0002. Moreover, this model also showed favorable prognostic significance for RFS in the training set (HR: 2.392, 95% CI [1.374–4.164], log-rank P = 0.0015). The predictive performance of the four-lncRNA model for OS and RFS was verified in the testing set. Furthermore, the results of stratified analysis revealed that the four-lncRNA model was an independent factor in the prediction of OS and RFS of patients with clinical characteristics such as TNM (Tumor, Node, Metastasis system) stages I–II, Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) stages 0–A, and solitary tumors in both the training set and testing set. The results of functional prediction showed that four lncRNAs may be potentially involve in multiple metabolic processes, such as amino acid, lipid, and glucose metabolism in cirrhotic HCC.
Universal linguistic hierarchies are not innately wired. Evidence from multiple adjectives
Authors: Leivada Evelina , Westergaard Marit
Published: August 2019

Background

Linguists and psychologists have explained the remarkable similarities in the orderings of linguistic elements across languages by suggesting that our inborn ability for language makes available certain innately wired primitives. Different types of adjectives, adverbs, and other elements in the functional spine are considered to occupy fixed positions via innate hierarchies that determine orderings such as A>B>C, banning other permutations (*B>C>A). The goal of this research is to tap into the nature and rigidity of such hierarchies by comparing what happens when people process orderings that either comply with them or violate them.

Method

N = 170 neurotypical, adult speakers completed a timed forced choice task that featured stimuli showing a combination of two adjectives and a Spelke-object (e.g., ‘I bought a square black table’). Two types of responses were collected: (i) acceptability judgments on a 3-point Likert scale that featured the options ‘correct’, ‘neither correct nor wrong’, and ‘wrong’ and (ii) reaction times. The task featured three conditions: 1. size adjective > nationality adjective, 2. color adjective > shape adjective, 3. subjective comment adjective > material adjective. Each condition had two orders. In the congruent order, the adjective pair was ordered in agreement with what is traditionally accepted as dictated by the universal hierarchy. In the incongruent order, the ordering was reversed, thus the hierarchy was violated.

Results

In the first experiment, the results ofn = 140 monolinguals showed that across conditions, both congruent and incongruent orders were generally accepted as correct. For 2/3 conditions, the difference in acceptability ratings between congruent and incongruent orders did not reach statistical significance. Using time as a window to processing, reaction times showed that incongruent orders do not take longer to process than congruent ones, as should be the case if the former were treated as being licensed under some type of special condition (e.g., contrastive focus) that reverses the unmarked order and legitimizes the violation of the hierarchy. In the second experiment, the results ofn = 30 bidialectals, tested in both language varieties, corroborated the findings of the first experiment.

Conclusions

Our findings do not provide evidence for an innate hierarchy for adjective ordering that imposes one rigid, unmarked order. We discuss the importance of notions such as subjectivity and inherentness, and show that for some conditions, not only is there no evidence for a hard constraint that bans incongruent orders, but even simple preferences of congruent orders over incongruent ones are hard to discern. Capturing the bigger picture, given that both the hierarchies and their legit permutations have been described as innate, our results reduce the amount of primitives that are cast as innate, eventually offering a deflationist approach to human linguistic cognition.
Platelet Alteration in Plasmodium vivax Malaria Patients in Thailand
Authors: Hayat Mohammand Sami , Wilairatana Polrat , Tangpukdee Noppadon , Krudsood Srivicha , Wilairat Nalinrat , Wilairat Pichayapat , Thebpatipat Pimjira
Published: August 2019

Introduction: Malaria remains a global health problem. Malaria is often linked to thrombocytopenia as well as other hematological variations.

Objective: The aim of this study is to find the platelet changes in Plasmodium vivax malaria patients. This retrospective cross-sectional study included 204 malaria patients admitted to the Hospital for Tropical Diseases, Bangkok, Thailand.

Results: Thrombocytopenia (<150x103/µl) was seen in 170(83.3%) patients with a mean (SD) of 101x103/µl (56.5). Mild (150x103/µl-50x103/µl), moderate (50x103/µl-20x103/µl) and severe (<20x103/µl) thrombocytopenia were seen in 141 (69.1%), 25 (12.2%) and 4 (2%) patients respectively. None of these patients with thrombocytopenia showed any sign of bleeding or required platelet transfusion.

Conclusion: This study showed thrombocytopenia as a classic feature of vivax malaria presenting more than 80% of cases. In patients with profoundly low thrombocyte counts there was no manifestation of bleeding nor was any platelet transfusion required.
A Comparative Assessment of the Microbial Load of Beef and Chicken Meat Collected at Different Hours of the Day in Ekpoma Town Market
Authors: Okoh P. I. , Okoruwa M. I. , Okosun S. E.
Published: August 2019

A study on comparative assessment of the microbial load of beef and chicken meat collected at different hours of the day in Ekpoma town market was carried out. Samples were purchased at 8am, 1pm and 5pm and taken to the laboratory for microbial load counts. The design of the experiment was a completely randomized design (CRD). Result from the study revealed that microbial load of beef for Diluent 1 (Dil.-1) was less at 8am, having 30.0 log10 CFU/g as compared with 43.5 and 47.0 observed at 1pm and 5pm respectively. Diluent 2 (Dil.-2) showed similar results of less counts at 8am (22.0 log10 CFU/g) compared with 31.5 and 45.0 recorded at 1pm and 5pm respectively, as well as Diluent 3 (Dil.-3), which recorded similar results of less microbial load at the early hours of the day. The result from the microbial load count of chicken was not affected by the time (hours) of collection, as values were not significantly (P>0.05) different. Diluent 1 (Dil.-1) had the least count of 22.0 log10 CFU/g at 8am compared with a high count of 32.5 at 1pm and a less count of 24.5 at 5pm. Similarly, Diluent 2 (Dil.-2) recorded a microbial count of 20.5 log10 CFU/g at 8am compared with 24.5 and 22.5 recorded at 1pm and 5pm respectively. While Diluent 3 (Dil.-3) had 14.5 log 10 CFU/g at 8am compared with 18.5 and 17.5 recorded at 1pm and 5pm respectively. Microbial load of chicken meat was lowest in the morning (8am), high in the afternoon (1pm) and lower in the evening (5pm). Here, the rate of exposure of chickens in the refrigerator to the atmosphere affected its microbial load.  The result did not follow the trend of higher microbial load as time of the day progressed, observed in beef. Results on a comparative assessment of the microbial load of beef and chicken meat further revealed that microbial load in beef was higher than chicken, as beef was completely exposed on a table platform in the market, while chicken was stored in the refrigerator when sold in the market. It also revealed that microbial load concentration of beef and chicken decreased as dilution rate of concentration increased, as observed in Dil.1 – 3. Hence, home consumers should buy beef meat in the early hours of the day, and chicken meat in the morning and evening from the market, in order to check the risk of microbial contamination.
Phytochemical Screening and Larvicidal Activities of Some Ethnobotanicals from North Eastern Nigeria against Culicine (Dipera: Culicidae) Mosquito
Authors: Naphtali R. S. , Ngwamah J. S.
Published: August 2019

This study was aimed to investigate the insecticidal activities of some selected ethnobotanicals against culicine mosquitoes. Various part of plant material collected were extracted using Soxhlet apparatus Methanol and Petroleum ether were used as solvents. Quantitative phytochemical Analysis for the crude extracts was carried out for the presence of azadrachtin, terpenoids, alkaloids, tannins, saponins, glycoside, steroids phenol and flavonoids. The larvicidal potentials of the various crude extracts were then tested against culicine mosquitoes.

More yields of phytochemical constituents (80.78 mg) were found in total of 900 g used for methanol extracts as compared to 57.64 mg found in 900 g used in petroleum ether extracts. All the extracts of methanol and petroleum ether of the different plant used showed larvicidal potentials against culicine 3rd instar larvae. The LC50 of the methanol extracts (37.32, 38.52, 42.05, 45.91, 68.78, 126.56, and 141.73 ppm) of E. globulus, O. kilimanscharicum, H. suaveolens, Neem seeds, neem stem leave and orange peels respectively, are far better than their counterparts of petroleum ether extracts with LC50 (100.25, 115.53, 145.88, 68.44, 114.55, 46.79, and 175.07 ppm). The larvicidal effect of individual isolates of alkaloids, tannin, saponins, azadirachtin, phenol and steroids demonstrated larvicidal potentials against 3rd instar larvae of culicine, where, terpenoids, flavonoids and glycoside showed no larvicidal potentials against culicine larvae. The larvicidal potential of each plant depend on the number of active ingredients and quantity available in each extract.

In conclusion, the present plant extracts have potentials for development of new and safe control products for culicine mosquitoes.
State of the Art: Soil Physical Attributes
Authors: Marcos Lapaz Allan de , Batista Bonini Carolina dos Santos , Lozano Olivério Gabriela , Paes dos Santos Tatiane , Guilherme Chitero José , Heinrichs Reges , Bonini Neto Alfredo , Pereira Yoshida Camila Hatsu , Raquel Costa Nidia , Cabrera Piazentin Jhonatan
Published: August 2019

Proper soil management interferes in the result of the installed crop. The knowledge of the positive and/or negative influence on the production systems is essential to improve the physical, chemical and biological quality of the soil and, for that, there are some attributes that act as indicators of soil quality. Practices carried out improperly will result in problems in soil structure, such as compaction, lack of availability of water and air in the soil and for plants, soil loss among others. Some properties as soil porosity, aggregation, compaction, water infiltration are used to measure soil quality. Given this, the use of these attributes as indicators is of utmost importance for excellent productivity, since management practices can directly influence the development of plants.
Prevalence of Hepatitis B and C among HIV Infected Pregnant Women Attending Care and Treatment at National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD), Abuja, Nigeria
Authors: Ya’aba Y. , Mohammed S. B. , Olatunji K. T. , Abubakar A. , Usoroh M. , Daniel O. C. , Abdulmumin A. R. , Nfongeh J. F.
Published: August 2019

Introduction: Viral Hepatitis and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) are most common top ranking leading causes of infectious diseases and deaths worldwide. If these infections, remain unidentified and untreated among HIV infected pregnant women, children born to these pregnant women are at high risk of these viral hepatitis infections.

Aims: The aim of the study was to determine the sero-prevalence of HBV and HCV among HIV infected pregnant women in Abuja, Nigeria.

Methodology: A cross sectional study among 330 HIV infected pregnant women commencing antiretroviral therapy (ART) at National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD), Abuja, Nigeria were studied. The women were screened for the presence of HBV and HCV antibodies. A pre-tested questionnaire was used to obtain socio-demographic data prior to recruitment/enrollment. Data were analyzed using statistical product and service solutions (SPSS) (version 20.0).

Results: Out of the 330 HIV infected pregnant women, 90 (27.3%) were HBV positive, while 5 (1.5%) were HCV positive (p = 0.42). The highest prevalence was observed among the age group of 20 – 29. However, none of the patients tested positive for both HBV and HCV.

Conclusion: The findings of this study indicated that infection with viral hepatitis is common and of public health concern. Therefore, concerted efforts should be put in place to mitigate the epidemics.
Direct and Reverse Causation of External Debt, Foreign Investment and Economic Growth in Nigeria, 1980-2017
Authors: Ngozi Patricia Nwachukwu , Ugwuanyi Willy
Published: August 2019

This study examined the direct and reverse relationship among external debt, foreign investment and economic growth in Nigeria, 1980-2017. The study is ex-post facto in design and adopted the autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) model, Granger causality test, bound co-integration test and error correction representations. It was found that external debt and exchange rate were significant functions of Real Gross Domestic Product. Foreign Direct Investment and its lag were insignificant functions of real gross domestic product. The bound test following the ARDL framework, showed evidence in favor of co-integration among the variables regardless their stationarity properties. The rightly signed error correction term of 30.4% gives an indication that it takes about 3.28 years to restore the long-run equilibrium state on the real gross domestic product should there be any shock from the explanatory variables. It is therefore recommended among others that government should create an enabling environment that will attract foreign investment given the catalytic role it plays on economic growth in Nigeria.
Restorative yoga for occupational stress among Japanese female nurses working night shift: Randomized crossover trial
Authors: Miyoshi Yoko
Published: August 2019

Objectives

To determine whether restorative yoga is an effective method for relieving occupational stress among female nurses working the night shift in Japan.

Methods

From July 2017 to May 2018, 20 female nurses aged in their 20s to 30s who were working the night shift at a university hospital participated in a randomized crossover trial, consisting of a 1-hour guided group yoga session followed by 4 weeks of at-home practice and 4 weeks of usual stress relief methods. The level of stress was assessed by the Brief Job Stress Questionnaire of the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare before and after performing restorative yoga. Descriptive statistics were calculated and data were analyzed by Student’s t test, one-way analysis of variance (with repeated measures), or Bonferroni’s multiple comparison test.

Results

Vital signs showed no significant differences from before to after the group yoga session, and there was no change of weight after 4 weeks of at-home practice. The mean questionnaire score for “psychological and physical stress reactions” was significantly reduced after the group yoga session. In addition, the mean score was significantly lower after 4 weeks of at-home practice than before or after group yoga, or after 4 weeks of the usual stress relief methods.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that restorative yoga may be effective for alleviating occupational stress among female nurses working the night shift.
Trimeric structure of the mouse Kupffer cell C‐type lectin receptor Clec4f
Authors: Ouyang Zhenlin , Felix Jan , Zhou Jinhong , Pei Yingmei , Ma Bohan , Hwang Peter M. , Lemieux M. Joanne , Gutsche Irina , Zheng Fang , Wen Yurong
Published: August 2019

The C‐type lectin receptor Clec4f has been identified as a specific surface marker for Kupffer cells, although its ortholog is absent in humans and its biological function remains elusive. Here, we report the crystal structure of a truncated mouse trimeric Clec4f. The orientation between the carbohydrate‐recognition domain of Clec4f and its neck region differs from other C‐type lectins, resulting in an observed distance of 45 Å between the glycan‐binding sites within the Clec4f trimer. Interestingly, the trimeric coiled‐coil interface within its heptad neck region contains multiple polyglutamine interactions instead of the predominantly hydrophobic leucine zipper found in other C‐type lectin receptors. The Clec4f trimeric structure displays unique features regarding its assembly and ligand recognition, shedding light on the evolution and diversity of the C‐type lectin family.
Profiling and functional analysis of differentially expressed circular RNAs in high glucose‐induced human umbilical vein endothelial cells
Authors: Jin Guoxi , Wang Qiong , Hu Xiaolei , Li Xiaoli , Pei Xiaoyan , Xu Erqin , Li Minglong
Published: August 2019

Dysfunction of vascular endothelial cells often results in diabetic vascular complications. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been implicated in the pathogenesis of various diseases, including diabetes and many vascular diseases. This study aimed to explore the roles of circRNAs in high glucose‐induced human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) to elucidate the contributions of circRNAs to diabetic vascular complications. We subjected control and high glucose‐induced HUVECs to RNA sequencing and identified 214 differentially expressed circRNAs (versus control HUVECs, fold change ≥ 2.0, P < 0.05). We then validated seven of these differentially expressed circRNAs by qPCR (hsa_circ_0008360, hsa_circ_0005741, hsa_circ_0003250, hsa_circ_0045462, hsa_circ_0064772, hsa_circ_0007976, and hsa_circ_0005263). A representative circRNA–microRNA (miRNA) network was constructed using the three most up‐regulated circRNAs (hsa_circ_0008360, hsa_circ_0000109, and hsa_circ_0002317) and their putative miRNA. Bioinformatic analysis indicated that these circRNAs regulate the expressions of genes involved in vascular endothelial function and angiogenesis through targeting miRNAs. Our work highlights the potential regulatory mechanisms of three crucial circRNAs in diabetes‐associated endothelial dysfunction.
The crystal structure of AcrR from Mycobacterium tuberculosis reveals a one‐component transcriptional regulation mechanism
Authors: Kang Sung‐Min , Kim Do‐Hee , Jin Chenglong , Ahn Hee‐Chul , Lee Bong‐Jin
Published: August 2019

Transcriptional regulator proteins are closely involved in essential survival strategies in bacteria. AcrR is a one‐component allosteric repressor of the genes associated with lipid transport and antibiotic resistance. When fatty acid ligands bind to the C‐terminal ligand‐binding cavity of AcrR, a conformational change in the N‐terminal operator‐binding region of AcrR is triggered, which releases the repressed DNA and initiates transcription. This paper focuses on the structural transition mechanism of AcrR of Mycobacterium tuberculosis upon DNA and ligand binding. AcrR loses its structural integrity upon ligand‐mediated structural alteration and bends toward the promoter DNA in a more compact form, initiating a rotational motion. Our functional characterization of AcrR and description of the ligand‐ and DNA‐recognition mechanism may facilitate the discovery of new therapies for tuberculosis.
1‐Butanthiol [MAK value documentation in German language, 2019]
Authors: Hartwig A. ,   MAK Commission
Published: August 2019

The German Commission for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area has re‐evaluated the maximum concentration at the workplace (MAK value) of 1‐butanethiol [
109‐79‐5
]. Available publications and unpublished study reports are described in detail. Additional data from a 90‐day inhalation study in rats indicate that the critical effect is haematotoxicity. On the basis of the NOAEC of 9 ml/m
3
and taking into account the increased respiratory volume at the workplace, the MAK value is increased to 1 ml/m
3
. Since a systemic effect is critical, Peak Limitation Category II with an excursion factor of 2 is assigned. The NOAEC for developmental toxicity in mice is 10 ml/m
3
and the NOEC for rats is 152 ml/m
3
. After considering the increased respiratory volume at the workplace, the margin to the MAK value calculated based on the data from the rat is sufficiently large. In mice, the LOAEC for developmental toxicity is 68 ml/m
3
and the NAEC is probably higher than 10 ml/m
3
, which results in a sufficient margin to the MAK value. Therefore, damage to the embryo or foetus is unlikely if the MAK value is not exceeded and 1‐butanethiol remains classified in Pregnancy Risk Group C. According to skin absorption models, percutaneous absorption is expected to contribute significantly to systemic toxicity. Therefore, 1‐butanethiol is designated with an “H”. 1‐Butanethiol can cause sensitization of the skin in animals and is therefore designated with “Sh”.
Vinylchlorid [MAK value documentation in German language, 2019]
Authors: Hartwig A. ,   MAK Commission
Published: August 2019

The German Commission for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area has re‐evaluated vinyl chloride [
75‐01‐4
] considering all toxicological endpoints.

Vinyl chloride is a genotoxic liver carcinogen in humans and animals. The re‐evaluation showed that a maximum concentration at the workplace (MAK value) cannot be derived and vinyl chloride remains classified in Carcinogen Category 1. However, the Commission has, for the first time, established an exposure‐risk relationship for a carcinogen using an approach similar to that of the Dutch Expert Committee on Occupational Safety. Pre‐defined excess risks for hepatic angiosarcomas after occupational exposure to vinyl chloride were calculated from two large epidemiological studies. The exposure‐risk relationships for both studies were similar. Concentrations of 40, 4, and 0.4 ml/m
3
for a 40‐year exposure correspond to risks of 4:1000, 4:10 000, and 4:100 000, respectively. A 40‐year exposure to 1 ml/m
3
thus results in a risk of 1:10 000. These risk values also cover the risks for hepatocellular carcinomas.

Vinyl chloride is a mutagen in vitro and in vivo. It can reach the testes of animals, but does not lead to dominant lethal mutations in mice and rats and is therefore not classified as a germ cell mutagen. Vinyl chloride from the gas phase is not taken up via the skin in toxicologically relevant amounts. Studies on sensitization are not available and there are no reports on sensitization in humans.
Superhydrophobic Fluorine‐Containing Protective Coating to Endow Al Nanoparticles with Long‐Term Storage Stability and Self‐Activation Reaction Capability
Authors: Ke Xiang , Guo Shuangfeng , Gou Bingwang , Wang Ning , Zhou Xiang , Xiao Lei , Hao Gazi , Jiang Wei
Published: August 2019

The stability of aluminum (Al) nanoparticles (ANPs) is a key issue that can determine the energetic properties of Al‐based energetic materials. In this study, a surface functionalization approach is employed, using the chemical adsorption and auto polymerization effects of the 1H, 1H, 2H, 2H‐perfluorodecyltriethoxysilane (FAS‐17), to set up a highly stable barrier coating to water and further endow ANPs with long‐term storage stability and self‐activation reaction capability. The FAS‐17‐modified ANPs (AFNPs) with a superhydrophobic surface show their excellent stability in air and unique strengths in corrosion resistance to water by enhancing diffusion resistance of O2 and preventing the hydration reaction. In terms of energetic performances, compared to the two‐step slow oxidation of ANPs, the heat‐release rate of AFNPs is significantly enhanced, resulting in a drastic oxidation process profiting from the surface reaction between the FAS‐17 and alumina (Al2O3) layer. More importantly, the ignition and combustion properties of AFNPs are also greatly improved, which can undergo self‐propagation combustion with a fairly high energy output even after stored in water. At last, the possible mechanisms of oxidation resistance and self‐activation reaction capacities are also proposed.
A Proresolving Peptide Nanotherapy for Site‐Specific Treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease by Regulating Proinflammatory Microenvironment and Gut Microbiota
Authors: Li Chenwen , Zhao Yang , Cheng Juan , Guo Jiawei , Zhang Qixiong , Zhang Xiangjun , Ren Jiong , Wang Fengchao , Huang Jun , Hu Houyuan , Wang Ruibing , Zhang Jianxiang
Published: August 2019

The incidence and prevalence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) increases steadily worldwide. There is an urgent need for effective and safe IBD therapies. Accelerated resolution of inflammation is a new strategy for the management of inflammatory diseases. For effective and safe IBD treatment, herein a smart nanotherapy (i.e. oxidation‐responsive nanoparticles containing a proresolving annexin A1‐mimetic peptide Ac2‐26, defined as AON) is developed, which can release packaged Ac2‐26, in response to highly expressed reactive oxygen species (ROS) at diseased sites. AON effectively protects Ac2‐26 from degradation in the enzyme‐rich environment of the gastrointestinal tract. By delivering this nanotherapy to the inflamed colons of mice with IBD, site‐specific release and accumulation of Ac2‐26 in response to high levels of ROS at the inflammatory sites are achieved. Mechanistically, the Ac2‐26‐containing, oxidation‐labile nanotherapy AON effectively decreases the expression of proinflammatory mediators, attenuates trafficking and infiltration of inflammatory cells, promotes efferocytosis of apoptotic neutrophils, and increases phenotypic switching of macrophages. Therapeutically, AON reduces symptoms of inflammation, accelerates intestinal mucosal wound healing, reshapes the gut microbiota composition, and increases short‐chain fatty acid production. Additionally, oral delivery of this nanomedicine shows excellent safety profile in a mouse model, conferring the confidence for further development of a targeted precision therapy for IBD and other inflammatory diseases.
Biomimetic MXene Textures with Enhanced Light‐to‐Heat Conversion for Solar Steam Generation and Wearable Thermal Management
Authors: Li Kerui , Chang Ting‐Hsiang , Li Zhipeng , Yang Haitao , Fu Fanfan , Li Tingting , Ho John S. , Chen Po‐Yen
Published: August 2019

2D materials are of particular interest in light‐to‐heat conversion, yet challenges remain in developing a facile method to suppress their light reflection. Herein, inspired by the black scales of Bitis rhinoceros, a generalized approach via sequential thermal actuations to construct biomimetic 2D‐material nanocoatings, including Ti3C2Tx MXene, reduced graphene oxide (rGO), and molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) is designed. The hierarchical MXene nanocoatings result in broadband light absorption (up to 93.2%), theoretically validated by optical modeling and simulations, and realize improved light‐to‐heat performance (equilibrium temperature of 65.4 °C under one‐sun illumination). With efficient light‐to‐heat conversion, the bioinspired MXene nanocoatings are next incorporated into solar steam‐generation devices and stretchable solar/electric dual‐heaters. The MXene steam‐generation devices require much lower solar‐thermal material loading (0.32 mg cm−2) and still guarantee high steam‐generation performance (1.33 kg m−2 h−1) compared with other state‐of‐the‐art devices. Additionally, the mechanically deformed MXene structures enable the fabrication of stretchable and wearable heaters dual‐powered by sunlight and electricity, which are reversibly stretched and heated above 100 °C. This simple fabrication process with effective utilization of active materials promises its practical application value for multiple solar–thermal technologies.
Does the Emergency Medicine In‐training Examination Accurately Reflect Residents’ Clinical Experiences?
Authors: Bischof Jason J. , Emerson Geremiha , Mitzman Jennifer , Khandelwal Sorabh , Way David P. , Southerland Lauren T.
Published: August 2019

Objective

The American Board of Emergency Medicine Model of the Clinical Practice of Emergency Medicine (ABEM Model) serves as a guide for resident education and the basis for the resident In‐training Examination (ITE) and the Emergency Medicine Board Qualification Examinations. The purpose of this study was to determine how closely resident–patient encounters in our emergency departments (EDs) matched the ABEM Model as presented in the specifications of the content outline for the ITE.

Methods

This single‐site study of an academic residency program analyzed all documented resident–patient encounters in the ED during a 2.5‐year period recorded in the electronic medical record. The chief complaints from these encounters were matched to the 20 categories of the ABEM Model. Chi‐square goodness‐of‐fit tests were performed to compare the proportions of categorized encounters and proportions of patient acuity levels to the proportions of categories as outlined in the content blueprint of the ITE.

Results

After the exclusion of encounters with missing data and those not involving EM residents, 125,405 encounters were analyzed. We found a significant difference between the clinical experience of EM residents and the ABEM Model as reflected in the ITE for both case categories (p < 0.01) and patient acuity (p < 0.01). The following categories were the most overrepresented in clinical care: signs, symptoms, and presentations; psychobehavioral disorders; and abdominal and gastrointestinal disorders. The most underrepresented were procedures and skills, systemic infectious disorders, and thoracic–respiratory disorders.

Conclusion

The clinical experience of EM residents differs significantly from the ITE Content Blueprint, which reflects the ABEM Model. This type of inquiry may help to provide custom education reports to residents about their clinical encounters to help identify clinical knowledge gaps that may require supplemental nonclinical training.
Verringerung schädlicher Defekte für leistungsstarke Metallhalogenid‐Perowskit‐Solarzellen
Authors: Ono Luis K. , Liu Shengzhong (Frank) , Qi Yabing
Published: August 2019

In zahlreichen Photovoltaik (PV)‐Technologien begrenzt das Vorhandensein elektronischer Defekte innerhalb der Halbleiter‐Bandlücke den Wirkungsgrad, die Reproduzierbarkeit und die Lebensdauer. Metallhalogenid‐Perowskite (MHPs) haben wegen ihrer hervorragenden Photovoltaik‐Eigenschaften, die auch ohne eine sehr strenge Filmwachstumskontrolle erreicht werden können, große Aufmerksamkeit gefunden. Es wurde in theoretischer Hinsicht viel getan, um die Punktdefekte in MHPs zu beschreiben. Dieser Aufsatz diskutiert die experimentellen Hürden für eine gründliche Charakterisierung der Defekte in MHPs, wie experimentelle Zuordnung der Defektart, Defektdichten und die durch diese Defekte induzierten Energiepositionen innerhalb der Bandlücke. Das zweite Schwerpunktthema sind die Passivierungsstrategien. Auf Grundlage einer Literaturrecherche werden die Defektenarten untersucht, die zu berücksichtigen und zu minimieren sind. Ein grundlegendes Verständnis der Defektbeschaffenheit von MHPs ist wünschenswert, um deren optoelektronische Funktionen zu verbessern.
Novel approach with polyfluorene/polydisulfide copolymer binder for high‐capacity silicon anode in lithium‐ion batteries
Authors: Bulut Emrah , Güzel Emre , Yuca Neslihan , Taskin Omer S.
Published: August 2019

In this study, as a novel design with the collaboration of a fluorene and sulfide‐based copolymer for Li‐ion battery application is presented. Polyfluorene‐co‐polydisulfide is prepared with desired functional groups to yield a conductivity and good adhesion. These critical and important features are performed by preparing polymers with proper functional groups. The preparation process is accomplished via Suzuki coupling process under Pd catalyst by combining separately synthesized 4,4′‐dibromodiphenyl disulfide in combination with 9,9‐dioctylfluorene‐2,7‐bis(trimethylborate). The fully obtained capacity of the silicon particles, that is, at C/10 with the capacity of 1250 mAh g−1 after the 500th cycle, approves the good performance by preserving capacity stability till 600th cycles. The designed and synthesized polymer binder with different functionalities and carbon nanotube additive show better characteristics such as conductivity, high polarity, and binding adhesion. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 48303.
Assessing the relative impacts of land‐use change and river regulation on Burdekin River (Australia) floodplain wetlands
Authors: Tibby John , Barr Cameron , Marshall Jonathan C. , Richards Jenny , Perna Colton , Fluin Jennie , Cadd Haidee R.
Published: August 2019

The Burdekin River floodplain wetlands are internationally important and act as a sink for sediments and nutrients that would otherwise enter the World Heritage‐listed Great Barrier Reef lagoon.

The Burdekin River has the highest natural discharge of any Great Barrier Reef catchment and contributes the greatest mass of sediment to the reef. The river and its catchment have been substantially modified by land clearance, river regulation introduced in the 1960s, the construction of the Burdekin Falls Dam in 1987 and invasive aquatic plants.

We hypothesised that the natural variability of Burdekin River discharge would render its wetland ecosystems resistant to human‐induced pressures.

Diatoms were analysed from the sediments of two lower Burdekin River floodplain wetlands with contrasting regulation histories. Labatt Lagoon has a long history of flow alteration, whereas Swan's Lagoon has experienced limited regulation.

Both wetlands experienced dramatic increases in sedimentation as a result of land clearance, yet the Swan's Lagoon diatom record indicates that the wetland's ecology remains within the range of natural variability. In contrast, Labatt Lagoon is markedly different from its pre‐settlement state. It is now permanent, having been ephemeral for more than 1000 years before European settlement. The conversion to artificial permanence facilitated aquatic plant invasion, resulting in more marked changes than widespread pastoralism.

Modern diatom assemblages from 28 lower Burdekin River floodplain wetlands indicate that the contemporary flora of Swan's Lagoon is unusual. Most wetlands have similar assemblages to those in the Labatt Lagoon record in its present, altered state. It is possible, therefore, that the ecological shift registered in Labatt Lagoon is widespread.

Diatom records highlight the striking impact that river regulation has had on the trajectory of the Burdekin floodplain wetlands. It is likely that wetland rehabilitation can be facilitated by the re‐introduction of a variable hydrological regime.
Insight into the Geometric and Electronic Structures of Gold/Silver Superatomic Clusters Based on Icosahedron M13 Units and Their Alloys
Authors: Jin Shan , Wang Shuxin , Zhu Manzhou
Published: August 2019

Metal superatomic nanoclusters, with electronic structures similar to those of one certain atom, are an important type of metal clusters. Interestingly, metal clusters with metal cores composed of either icosahedral M13 or icosahedral assemblies always have a greater potential to become superatomic clusters. Furthermore, superatomic clusters with similar electronic compositions could possess various geometric structures, owing to differences in the shells; this provides a deeper understanding of the metal superatomic cluster and the assembly for nanomaterials. Therefore, this review focuses on the geometric and electronic structures of gold/silver superatomic clusters based on icosahedron M13 units and their alloys, which will facilitate the development of various applications of superatomic clusters.
Structural Diversity in Luminescent MOFs Containing a Bent Electron‐rich Dicarboxylate Linker and a Flexible Capping Ligand: Selective Detection of 4‐Nitroaniline in Water
Authors: Chakraborty Gouri , Das Prasenjit , Mandal Sanjay K.
Published: August 2019

A combination of a bent bis(naphthalene) and hydroxy‐based dicarboxylate linker and a flexible bis(tridentate)polypyridyl ligand has been employed to self‐assemble with two different d10 metal centers, ZnII and CdII, to form structurally diversified luminescent metal–organic frameworks, [Zn2(tpbn)(mbhna)2(H2O)2]⋅4 H2O⋅1.5DMF (1) and {[Cd2(tpbn)(mbhna)2]⋅2DMF}n (2), respectively (where, tpbn=N,N′,N′′,N′′′‐tetrakis(pyridine‐2‐ylmethyl)butane‐1,4‐diamine and H2mbhna=4,4′‐methylene‐bis[3‐hydroxy‐2‐naphthalene carboxylic acid]). Both 1 and 2 are characterized and analyzed by various analytical techniques including single‐crystal X‐ray diffractometry. Their excellent emissive nature is studied in different solvents and further utilized to selectively detect aromatic amines, particularly 4‐nitroaniline in water with detection limits at sub‐ppm level. The difference in sensing activity of 1 and 2 toward 4‐NA is corroborated well with their structures. The mechanism of action has been established through Stern–Volmer plot, spectral overlap, time‐resolved lifetime studies and HOMO–LUMO energy calculations. In addition, 1 and 2 are found to be recyclable and display good stability after sensing experiments.
Weak signal detection in SPC
Authors: Dohnal Gejza
Published: August 2019

Changes in the behavior of dynamic systems are detected based on changes in the monitored quantities or their characteristics. This detection usually takes place by monitoring the time evolution of a variable and detecting the change at the time when a predetermined threshold is exceeded. This threshold is determined on the basis of the detection scheme requirements, in particular, the probability of false alarms and the detection rate for the actual change. In some cases, however, a change does not come suddenly, but certain “hints” in the system behavior can be observed that may indicate a future change. For example, an increasing frequency of outliers can result in a sudden permanent change in the signal. The occurrence of some “unusual” frequencies often indicates an imminent change. For example, an increasing correlation value indicates an undesired process status. Detection of these “subliminal” hints can often improve the characteristics of the detection scheme, especially the detection rate for the actual change. In this paper, we will deal with the detection of weak signals in statistical process monitoring using a control chart with adaptive control limits.
Improving Utility Succession and Workforce Development Planning
Authors: Clark David K.
Published: August 2019

Key Takeaways

Beginning in late 2018, the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California's Engineering Services Group reassessed its programs to help address high turnover resulting from retirements.

Engineering Services’ 2019 plan includes skills‐based and diversity‐enhancing programs to provide on‐the‐job training opportunities and augment professional development.

Though roughly 25% of Engineering Services staff will likely be replaced over the next five years, the implementation of programs to attract, retain, and provide ongoing training for employees will help ensure a diverse and flexible workforce.
Bringing Agriculture and Drinking Water Utilities Together for Source Water Protection
Authors: Mehan G. Tracy , Carpenter Adam T.
Published: August 2019

Key Takeaways

While point‐source discharges are regulated for source water contamination, that's not necessarily the case with agricultural nonpoint sources.

Partnerships between drinking water utilities and farmers benefit from a mutual understanding of each partner's efforts and challenges in source water protection.

Examples of long‐standing collaborations between utilities and agricultural interests serve as models for new source water protection projects.

The Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 mandates that 10% of all conservation funds or $4 billion over 10 years is to be spent on source water protection.