bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ELECTRICITY INFRASTRUCTURE PLANNING: EVALUATING SOLAR POTENTIAL ASSESSMENTS FOR INFORMAL SETTLEMENTS USING GRASS AND FREELY AVAILABLE DATA
Authors: Hassim L. , Coetzee S. , Rautenbach V.
Published: July 2018

Abstract. Informal settlements, also known as slums or shanty towns, are characterised by rapid and unstructured expansion, poorly constructed buildings, and in some cases, they are on disputed land. Such settlements often lack basic services, such as electricity. As a result, informal settlement dwellers turn to hazardous alternative sources of energy, such as illegal electricity connections and paraffin. Solar power is a clean and safe alternative. However, informal settlements are often located on undesirable land on the urban fringe where the topography may hinder the use of solar energy. The high density of dwellings could also be a hindrance. Therefore, the solar potential needs to be assessed before any implementations are planned. Solar potential assessment functionality is generally available in geographic information system (GIS) products. The nature, cost and accessibility of datasets required for the assessment vary significantly. In this paper, we evaluate the results of solar potential assessments using GRASS (Geographic Resources Analysis Support System) for a number of different datasets. The assessments were done for two informal settlements in the City of Tshwane (South Africa): Alaska, which is nestled on a hill; and Phomolong, a densely populated settlement with a rather flat topography. The results show that solar potential assessments with open source GIS software and freely available data are feasible. This eliminates the need for lengthy and bureaucratic procurement processes and reduces the financial costs of assessing solar potential for informal settlements.
On the role of the North Equatorial Counter Current during a strong El Niño
Authors: Webb David John
Published: July 2018

Abstract. An analysis of archived data from the NEMO 1∕12th degree global ocean model
shows the importance of the North Equatorial Counter Current (NECC) in the
development of the strong 1982–1983 and 1997–1998 El Niños. The model
results indicate that in a normal year the core of warm water in the NECC is
diluted by the surface Ekman transport, by geostrophic inflow and by tropical
instability waves. During the development of the 1982–1983 and 1997–1998 El Niños,
these processes had reduced effect at the longitudes of warmest
equatorial temperatures and to the west. During the autumns of 1982 and 1997,
the speed of the NECC was also increased by a stronger-than-normal annual
Rossby wave. The increased transport of warm water by the NECC due to these
changes resulted in warm water reaching the far eastern Pacific and appears
to have been a major factor in moving the centre of deep atmospheric
convection eastwards across the Pacific.
Brief communication: An Ice surface melt scheme including the diurnal cycle of solar radiation
Authors: Krebs-Kanzow Uta , Gierz Paul , Lohmann Gerrit
Published: July 2018

Abstract. We propose a surface melt scheme for glaciated land surfaces, which only requires monthly mean short wave radiation and temperature as inputs, yet implicitly accounts for the diurnal cycle of short wave radiation. The scheme is deduced from the energy balance of a daily melt period which is defined by a minimum solar elevation angle. The scheme yields a better spatial representation of melting than common empirical schemes when applied to the Greenland Ice Sheet, using a 1948–2016 regional climate and snow pack simulation as a reference. The scheme is physically constrained and can be adapted to other regions or time periods.
Patient willingness to be seen by a physician associate in Ireland
Authors: Joyce Pauline , Arnett Richard , Hill Arnold , Hooker Roderick S.
Published: July 2018

Background: The physician associate (PA) role was piloted in Dublin, Ireland between 2015 and 2017. However, the concept of a PA and the acceptance of their role in Ireland had not been explored.Objective: To investigate the willingness of Irish citizens to be seen by a PA based on medical scenarios in a typical clinical setting.Design: A mixed methods study was undertaken. A preference survey, with three medical scenarios, gave participants a choice to be treated by a PA or a doctor, with two time trade-off options offered. Responses were supported with qualitative text. Four hundred people were invited to participate as surrogate patients.Setting and participants: In 2017 a total of 270 respondents took part in the study (67.5%) in two hospitals (one private and one public) in Dublin. The mean age was 60; male (n = 142) and female (n = 128) respondents.Findings: In total, 95% of the respondents chose to see a PA over a doctor based on the scenarios presented and a wait time of 30 minutes. Wait time, trust, competency and the severity or seriousness of the medical condition were categorized into three themes for choosing the PA over the doctor. The “surrogate patient” decisions made by this sample were influenced by knowing that the PA is supervised and can check decisions with his/her supervizing physician.Conclusion: These findings are consistent with studies carried out in other countries where willingness to be seen by a PA is neither age nor gender specific. Patient preference seems to concur around the importance of trust and confidence in the medical provider.
The Southern Chamber of Amun in the Temple of Hatshepsut at Deir el-Bahari: three seasons of epigraphic studies from 2013 to 2016
Authors: Kapiec Katarzyna
Published: July 2018

The Southern Room of Amun Project is one of the egyptological projects of the PCMA’s Polish–Egyptian Archaeological and Conservation Mission in the Temple of Hatshepsut at Deir el-Bahari. The paper presents epigraphic work carried out in this room between 2014 and 2015, during which almost the entire wall decoration was recorded. The article is a wall-by-wall presentation, paying special attention to the most important transformations of the reliefs over time
Beit Ras (Capitolias): the archaeological project (2014–2016)
Authors: Młynarczyk Jolanta
Published: July 2018

Polish excavations at the site of Beit Ras (ancient Capitolias) in the governorate of Irbid, northern Jordan, investigated an area in the northern part of the ancient town, to the west of the Roman-age theater. Three seasons of fieldwork were conducted, starting in 2014 with a survey using the electric resistivity method to detect ancient structures. The presence of architectural features was noted, dated by surface finds spanning a period from the 1st–2nd through the 12th–13th centuries AD. In the next two seasons, in 2015 and 2016, excavation of three archaeological trenches led to the discovery of the remains of a winery and a section of the city wall, as well as a sequence of floors. This established a chronology of usage from the Roman to the early medieval period and proved that this part of the town was mostly domestic in character, at least during the Byzantine and early Islamic periods. Evidence of destruction of a nearby church was also found, tentatively attributed to a Sassanian raid in AD 614 or soon after.
Preliminary report on the 2016 season in Metsamor (Armenia)
Authors: Jakubiak Krzysztof , Iskra Mateusz , Piliposyan Ashot , Zakyan Artavazd
Published: July 2018

Excavation in Metsamor in 2016 was focused on the settlement area as well as necropolis. Extended trenches uncovered a substantial part of the settlement and contributed new stratigraphic and chronological data on the three phases of occupation, especially the heavy fire that appears to have destroyed the buildings in the early 8th century BC. A unique find from this level of destruction was a necklace made of sardonyx, agate and gold beads. In the post-Urartian period, the northeastern part of the settlement was clearly rearranged. Exploration of a kurgan tomb in the cemetery showed that the tomb had been reused for the most recent burial, looted, which may have included a symbolic horse burial. The construction of the tomb, based on finds from a layer at the bottom of the burial chamber, which included several golden adornments and beads of different materials, can be dated to the Middle Bronze Age, the latest burials to the Iron I period.
#CGS2015: An Evaluation of Twitter Use at the Canadian Geriatrics Society Annual Scientific Meeting
Authors: Cheung Bonnie , Wong Camilla L. , Gardhouse Amanda , Frank Christopher , Budd Laura
Published: July 2018

BackgroundTwitter is a microblogging platform increasingly used in medicine to overcome geographic barriers and promote international connections. Tweets, the 280-character microblogs, are catalogued by hashtags (#). This study evaluates and describes the participation, content, and impact of Twitter at the 2015 Canadian Geriatrics Society (CGS) Annual Scientific Meeting, during which #CGS2015 was the official conference hashtag.MethodsTwitter transcripts of #CGS2015 were obtained from Symplur to prospectively analyze tweets for content and quantitative metrics. TweetReach was used to retrospectively analyze tweets with the hashtag #CGS2014 from the 2014 meeting for growth analysis. The impact of Twitter on the conference experience was derived from questionnaires.ResultsThere were 1,491 #CGS2015 tweets, 40% of which were original. Tweet content was categorized into conference sessions (38.8%), networking (29.2%), resource sharing (17.6%), and conference promotion (14.3%). Of the 279 participants, 60% were non-Canadian. The questionnaire data from 86 respondents demonstrated generally positive experiences with Twitter, particularly with facilitating collegial interactions, resource sharing, and insight into sessions not attendedlive. The most cited drawback was divided attention when using personal devices. Analysis comparing #CGS2014 to #CGS2015 demonstrated increases in total participants (50 to 279), number of tweets (434 to 1,491) and impressions (155,600 to 943,825).ConclusionsTwitter engagement at the CGS 2015 annual meeting enabled international participation in networking, resource sharing, and online discussions of sessions. Future conferences may benefit from a workshop on Twitter basics for attendees and presenters.
EXTRACTION OF RARE-EARTH ELEMENTS BY MIXES OF ISOMERS OF TRIBUTYLPHOSPHATE WITH NITRATE TRIALKYLMETHYLAMMONIUM
Authors: Val'kov Alexander V. , Khmelevskaya Nadezhda D.
Published: July 2018

Results of studying of extraction of nitrates of rare-earth elements (REE) and trialkylmetylammoniya nitrate (TAMAN) are given by mixes of isomers of tributyl phosphate (TBP). Tri-iso-butylphosphate and tri - sec-butylphosphate are investigated as isomers of normal tributylphosphate. The water phase contained 8 mol/dm3 nitrate of ammonium and 5.10-4 mol/dm3 of neodymium nitrate at рН = 2-3. The content of extractants in isomolar series was varied in the range of 0-0.3 mol/dm3. It was established that synergistic effect decreases in a series of TBP> TIBP> TvtBP. Synergistic effect is calculated as the distribution coefficient relation at extraction by mix of extractants to the sum of coefficients of distribution at extraction by each of extractants. Synergistic effect reaches its maximum value at the ratio: [NPOC] : [TAMAN] = 2 : 1 for TBP and 4-5 : 1 for TiBP, TvtBP, and the absolute value fluctuates within 10-50 at extraction of microconcentration of REE. It is noted that the method of isomolar series is applied incorrectly in many researches with the violation of the fundamental requirements (variable concentration of rare earth metals and acid in the aqueous phase, an assumption of a possibility of simultaneous existence of several solvate, variable concentration of salting-out owing to extraction into the organic phase, the association and polymerization in the organic phase, etc..), which must be followed when using this method. Мultiple saturation method (MSM) is offered for a correct application of the method of isomolar series. The method consists in the fact that the organic phase is saturated repeatedly (5-6 times) with the original aqueous solution until a constant composition of the aqueous phase at all points of  isomolar series. It is possible to believe that the organic phase is responsible for the deviation from the additivity in this case. It was established that synergistic effect tends to unity or virtually disappears in the extraction of REE macroamounts method of ofisomolar series of multiple saturation. It is shown that value of synergistic effect approaches unity at gadolinium nitrate extraction by isomolar mix in the MSM mode. Synergistic effect for a mixture of rare earth elements is close to unity in the extraction of REE mixtures macroamounts of TiBP and TAMAN, and the individual elements are distributed in accordance with the extraction characteristics of each of the extractants alone: synergistic effect for several elements of cerium is greater than one, and yttrium - somewhat less than one. It is suggested that if there is free extragent the formation of mixed solvate may be explained by the steric effect, which disappears at saturation of extracgent.Forcitation:Val'kov A.V., Khmelevskaya N.D. Extraction of rare-earth elements by mixes of isomers of tributylphosphate with nitrate trialkylmethylammonium. Izv. Vyssh. Uchebn. Zaved. Khim. Khim. Tekhnol. 2018. V. 61. N 7. P. 54-60
ELECTROCHEMICAL PROCESSES ON DISPERSE GRAPHITE ELECTRODES IN HNO3 SOLUTIONS
Authors: Yakovlev Andrey V. , Yakovleva Elena V. , Rakhmetulina Lidiya A. , Solovyova Nina D. , Lopukhova Marina I.
Published: July 2018

The mechanism and kinetics of anodic processes on a dispersed graphite electrode are investigated by a potentiodynamic method. Variation of the reversal potential in the anode zone on potentiodynamic curves PDC allow to estimate the ratio of the anode and cathode capacities and to determine the coefficient of reversibility of electrochemical reactions. By the degree of reversibility of electrochemical reactions, three potential zones are distinguished: Ist - E ... 1.15 V; II-1,15 ... 1,4V; III -> 1.4B corresponding to the sequential course of the intercalation of graphite with nitrate ions, oxidation of the surface functional groups, the formation of oxide-like graphite compounds. In the zone of potentials I, the maximum reversibility of the anodic process is noted, due to the intercalation-deintercalation process, with the formation of graphite intercalation compounds. Then, a regular decrease in the coefficient of reversibility associated with the occurrence of reactions involving surface oxygen-containing groups and reactions involving oxygen is noticed. This complex of electrochemical processes is accompanied by the formation of graphite intercalation compounds of non-stoichiometric composition and, probably, the oxide of similar structures. The transition to the potential of zone III is characterized by an abrupt decrease in the coefficient of reversibility and the growth of anode currents, which decrease with cycling. Under these conditions, oxidation reactions of the graphite matrix are likely to occur with the formation of CO and CO2. An increase in the rate of irreversible reactions is revealed with a decrease in the concentration of HNO3. In 45% HNO3, the re-oxidation reactions of graphite intercalation compound and the formation of oxide compounds of graphite are significantly accelerated. In 30% HNO3, the highest anode currents of the first cycle from the solutions studied are recorded on a dispersed graphite electrode, and the reversibility of the anode processes is lower than in 60% HNO3. It has been shown that in HNO3 with a concentration of less than 15%, the intercalation of graphite proceeds at a low rate and is accompanied by the surface reactions involving oxygen.For citation:Yakovlev A.V., Yakovleva E.V., Rakhmetulina L.A., Solovyova N.D., Lopukhova M.I. Electrochemical processes on disperse graphite electrodes in HNO3 solutions. Izv. Vyssh. Uchebn. Zaved. Khim. Khim. Tekhnol. 2018. V. 61. N 7. P. 121-128
Healthcare Resources Use in Patients with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). Real-World Evidence From Six Italian Local Health Units
Authors: Perrone Valentina , Sangiorgi Diego , Buda Stefano , Andretta Margherita , Borrè Silvio , Cattaruzzi Chiara , Gasperini Gina , Lena Fabio , Pisterna Alessia , Degli Esposti Luca
Published: July 2018

AIM: The aim of the study was to evaluate healthcare resource use and related costs for the management of people living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (PLWHIV) with and without comorbidities, and to compare the burden of comorbidities in PLWHIV to the general population.METHODS: An observational retrospective analysis, based on administrative and laboratory databases from 6 Italian Local Health Units (LHUs) was performed. Individuals receiving either an HIV treatment [Antiretroviral therapy (ART) – ATC code: J05A)], or with an HIV positive laboratory test result between January 1st, 2014 and December 31st, 2014 were included. The date of first ART prescription or positive test of HIV was used as the Index Date (ID). Patients enrolled were followed-up for all time available from the ID (follow-up period) and their clinical characteristics were investigated from one year prior to the ID (characterization period). Comorbidities were measured by using the Charlson Comorbidity Index; findings were compared with those of a sample of the general population with the same age and sex distribution (OsMed 2015). Healthcare resource use and related cost was evaluated during the follow-up period.RESULTS: 1,214 patients were included, 837 were PLWHIV without any comorbidities and 377 were PLWHIV with at least one comorbidity. Mean prevalence of prescriptions for treatment of comorbidities was higher in the HIV-infected population than in the Italian general population. The annual healthcare cost of managing HIV patients with comorbidities, was significantly higher than that for patients without comorbidities (€ 10,615 vs. € 8,665, p < 0.001).CONCLUSIONS: Study results showed that 30% of PLWHIV had at least one comorbidity. The cost of managing PLWHIV who have comorbidities was significantly higher than that of managing PLWHIV without comorbidities. Our data confirm that care and treatment services should be adapted to address the specific needs of people living with both HIV and comorbidities.
Marine biodiversity research in the Ryukyu Islands, Japan: Current status and trends
Authors: Reimer James D , Biondi Piera , Lau Yee Wah , Masucci Giovanni , Nguyen Xuan Hoa , Santos Maria E.A. , Wee Hin Boo
Published: July 2018

In Japan, the subtropical Ryukyu Archipelago (RYS; also known as the Nansei Islands) with its coral reefs has been shown to harbor very high levels of marine biodiversity. This study provides an overview of the state of marine biodiversity research in the RYS. First, we examined the amount of scientific literature in the Web of Science (WoS; 1995-2017) on six selected representative taxa spanning from protists to vertebrates across six geographic sub-regions in the RYS. Our results show clear taxonomic and sub-region bias, with research on Pisces, Cnidaria, and Crustacea to be much more common than on Dinoflagellata, Echinodermata, and Mollusca. Such research was more commonly conducted in sub-regions with larger human populations (Okinawa, Yaeyama). Additional analyses with the Ocean Biogeographic Information System (OBIS) records show that within sub-regions, records are concentrated in areas directly around marine research stations and institutes (if present), further showing geographical bias within sub-regions. While not surprising, the results indicate the clear need to study ‘understudied’ taxa in ‘understudied sub-regions’ (Tokara, Miyako, Yakutane, Amami Oshima), and to study ‘understudied areas’ of some sub-regions away from marine research stations. Second, we compared the numbers of scientific papers on eight ecological topics for the RYS with numbers from selected major coral reef regions of the world; the Caribbean (CAB), Great Barrier Reef (GBR), and the Red Sea (RES). Not unexpectedly, the numbers for all topics in the RYS were well below numbers from all other regions, yet within this disparity, research in the RYS on ‘marine protected areas’ and ‘herbivory’ was an order of magnitude lower than numbers in other regions. Additionally, while manuscript numbers on the RYS have increased from 1995 to 2016, the rate of increase (4.0 times) was seen to be lower than those in the CAB, RES, and GBR (4.6 to 8.4 times). As the RYS are considered to contain among the most critically endangered coral reef biodiversity in the world due to high levels of both endemism and anthropogenic threats, much work is urgently needed to address the areas of relative research weakness identified in this study.
Molecular profiling of microbiota in human oral cavity, stomach and intestine
Authors: Liu Qianqian , Zhu Feizhou , Chen Liyu , Xu Meihua , Chen Jianwei , He Colin K. , Zou Lingzhi , Jiang Na , Liu Xianghong , Meng Yang , Liao Shijing , Peng Yong , Wang Lili
Published: July 2018

The microbiota in the human gut is not only a complicated microecological system but also plays important roles in both health and disease. In order to understand the roles of these gut bacteria, we determined the distribution of microbiota in different regions of the gut by sequencing the 16S rRNA gene V4 region of the bacteria in the saliva, gastric juice, and stool of healthy individuals. The 16S rRNA gene V3-V5 region sequences of saliva and stool microbiota were obtained from Human Microbiome Project (HMP) and the V4 sequence was obtained from the V3-V5 sequences by a program designed by Perl language. We found that the microbiota of the gastric juice is more similar to those in the saliva rather than that in the stool. The frequency of some taxa was significantly different among the three groups with the Streptococcus, Veillonella, Oribacterium, Selenomonas, Actinomyces, and Granulicatella most abundant in the saliva; the Prevotella, Neisseria, Actinobacillus, Treponema, and Helicobacter most abundant in the gastric juice; and the Bacteroides, Parabacteroides, Faecalibacterium, Sutterella, Ruminococcus, Oscillospira and Phascolarctobacterium most abundant in the stool. In addition, results from PICRUSt analyses suggest that the functions of microbiota in the gastric juice are more similar as those in the saliva than in the stool. Moreover, we also found that the membrane transport of the microbiota in the saliva is higher than that in the stool and gastric juice. To our knowledge, this is the first comprehensive comparison of microbiota in the human oral cavity, stomach, and intestine.
Solid‐Phase Synthesis of Tetramic Acid via Resin‐Bound Enol Ethers as a Privileged Scaffold in Drug Discovery
Authors: Schütznerová Eva , Oliver Allen G. , Přibylka Adam , Krchňák Viktor
Published: July 2018

This paper reports the practical synthesis of a tetramic acid scaffold on solid phase using simple, commercially available building blocks under mild conditions. Acyclic precursors were assembled on solid phase in four steps, and cyclization was achieved by Wittig olefination. The target compounds contained three points of diversification and allowed for further modifications while still being attached to the resin. Solid‐phase synthesis represents a method of choice, particularly for parallel synthesis, because the intermediates can be isolated simply and quickly by washing the resin beads, which typically takes only minutes.

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Hierarchical N‐doped carbons from designed N‐rich polymer: Adsorbents with a record‐high capacity for desulfurization
Authors: Tan Peng , Xue Ding‐Ming , Zhu Jing , Jiang Yao , He Qiu‐Xia , Hou ZhuFeng , Liu Xiao‐Qin , Sun Lin‐Bing
Published: July 2018

The removal of 4,6‐dimethyldibenzothiophene is quite challenging in petroleum refining process. Adsorptive desulfurization is an efficient technique but the capacities and/or poor stability of current adsorbents need to be improved. Here, the fabrication of hierarchical N‐doped carbons (NCs) derived from carbonizing the polymerization of 2,4,6‐tris(chloromethyl)mesitylene and p‐phenylenediamine is reported. The results show that the NCs have developed micropores (0.34–0.93 cm3 g−1) and mesopores (0.15–0.47 cm3 g−1), and their surfaces have abundant pyrrole‐like/graphitic N and topological defects and vacancies, and high cycle stability (6 cycles). The typical adsorbent NC‐700 shows a record‐high capacity of 2.91 mmol g−1 under ambient conditions. The computational results show that the doped N is capable of promoting adsorptive strength by 0.055–0.178 eV. In conclusion, the obtained materials exhibit excellent performance for deep desulfurization, and this work may open up new avenues for the development of efficient adsorbents. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 64: 3786–3793, 2018
Circumferential resection margin as a prognostic factor after rectal cancer surgery: A large population‐based retrospective study
Authors: Liu Qi , Luo Dakui , Cai Sanjun , Li Qingguo , Li Xinxiang
Published: July 2018

Aim

This study aimed to investigate circumferential resection margin (CRM) as a prognostic factor for long‐term oncologic survival after rectal cancer surgery.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with malignant rectal cancer between 1 January 2010 and 31 December 2014, from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) program were identified for this study. The patients were divided into five CRM groups to compare the baseline characteristics and assess cancer‐specific survival (CSS): 0‐1 mm, 1.1‐2.0 mm, 2.1‐5.0 mm, 5.1‐10.0 mm, and >10 mm. The main endpoint was CSS.

Results

Circumferential resection margin ≤1 mm was independently associated with 99% increased risk of cancer‐specific mortality in rectal cancer [hazard ratio (HR) = 1.990, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.613‐2.454, P < 0.001, using CRM (1.1‐2.0 mm) as a reference]. CRM (5.1‐10.0 mm) was independently associated with 29.2% decreased risk of cancer‐specific mortality [HR = 0.708, 95% CI = 0.525‐0.954, P = 0.152, using group (2.1‐5.0 mm) as reference]. CRM ≤2 mm or ≤0.4 mm was not obviously associated with CSS.

Conclusions

circumferential resection margin is an independent prognostic factor in rectal cancer. Surgeons should try to maximize the CRM. Rectal cancer patients with CRM ≤1 mm should receive more postoperative attention depending on individual situation. Also, CRM should be accurately measured in millimeters in a preoperative magnetic resonance imaging or pathological report, rather than simply described as “involved” or “clear.”
Large Dimensional CeO2 Nanoflakes by Microwave‐Assisted Synthesis: Lamellar Nano‐Channels and Surface Oxygen Vacancies Promote Catalytic Activity
Authors: Ding Huihui , Yang Jingxia , Ma Shuyi , Yigit Nevzat , Xu Jingli , Rupprechter Günther , Wang JinJie
Published: July 2018

Large nano‐structured flakes of CeO2 (20–80 nm in thickness, up to 5.6 μm in diameter) were synthesized by a combination of microwave (MW), ultraviolet (UV) and ultrasound (US), with or without pressure (P). The CeO2 structures were systematically examined by XRD, SEM, N2 sorption, HRTEM, XPS, Raman and H2‐TPR. The synthesized CeO2 nanoflakes were composed by 3.0–7.5 nm nanoparticles with the (111) surface exposed, and laminated to nanoflakes with 3.42–3.85 nm nano‐channels in between. MW‐assisting was beneficial to form a higher surface Ce3+/(Ce3++Ce4+) ratio and surface oxygen vacancies during short synthesis procedure. A Raman peak at 480 cm−1 correlating with bulk Ce3+ was detected. H2‐TPR found MW and MW+P had more surface Ce3+ (surface oxygen vacancies). CO oxidation and imine conversion proved that MW+P was the optimum condition to produce highly active CeO2 nanoflakes. The much better catalytic performance than CeO2 from solvothermal preparation, due to the larger channel gap (3.85 nm),a higher Ce3+/(Ce3++Ce4+) ratio (32 %) and more surface oxygen vacancies on the particles of the organized flake structures.
Employee attitudes towards corporate social responsibility: a study on gender, age and educational level differences
Authors: Rosati Francesco , Costa Roberta , Calabrese Armando , Pedersen Esben Rahbek Gjerdrum
Published: July 2018

Previous studies show that individual characteristics can influence stakeholder attitudes towards corporate social responsibility (CSR). This study analyses employee attitudes such as CSR demandingness, trust and satisfaction, to determine whether they vary according to differences in gender, age, and educational level. The analysis was carried out by surveying 153 employees of 11 Italian banks, and by performing a content analysis of the banks' sustainability reports. The Italian banking sector was chosen because of recent financial and CSR scandals. The findings suggest that, on average, male employees are slightly more trusting in and satisfied with CSR performance than their female counterparts. Graduates are slightly more demanding, largely more trusting, and generally more satisfied than non‐graduates. Interestingly, the difference between older and younger employees is not significant. The proposed approach can be useful in designing tailored CSR activities and communication avenues by shedding light on employees' CSR attitudes.
Myeloid‐derived suppressor cells: Roles in the tumor microenvironment and tumor radiotherapy
Authors: Yin Zhongnan , Li Chunxiao , Wang Junjie , Xue Lixiang
Published: July 2018

Cancer progression is closely related to the tumor microenvironment in which the tumor exists, including surrounding blood vessels, immune cells, fibroblasts, bone marrow‐derived inflammatory cells, signaling molecules and the extracellular matrix. Tumors can influence the microenvironment by releasing extracellular signals, promoting tumor angiogenesis and inducing peripheral immune tolerance, while the immune cells in the microenvironment can impact the growth and evolution of cancerous cells. One of major cell components in the tumor microenvironment is myeloid‐derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), which promote tumor growth and metastasis directly or indirectly by recognizing other immune cells, producing cytokines and exerting their immunosuppression functions. MDSCs have emerged as major regulators of immune responses in cancer and key targets for treating cancer. There are many limitations and side‐effect in approaches of conventional cancer therapy, including radiotherapy. It has grown up to be a burgeoning field that a combination of radiotherapy and immunotherapy applied to cancer therapy. Therefore, it is fundamental to explore the immune mechanism in the process of cancer treatment. Here, we reviewed the recent progress of MDSCs in roles of the tumor microenvironment and tumor radiotherapy.
An external review of the conclusions regarding the peak direct training module
Authors: Witts Benjamin N.
Published: July 2018

Promoting the Emergence of Advanced Knowledge—Direct Training Module (PEAK‐DTM) is a commercially available assessment and curriculum for individuals whose language skills are not developmentally adequate. In their review of PEAK‐DTM, Reed and Luiselli (2016) analyzed the extant literature on PEAK‐DTM and concluded that it has a sound and growing body of empirical support on its efficacy, usability, and psychometric properties. Similar conclusions are mirrored in the PEAK‐DTM literature and promotional material. I review these conclusions and contend that many overrate the research that backs them. Suggestions for a more rigorous research agenda on PEAK‐DTM and its related modules are provided.
The Effect of Additives for Reflux or Dysphagia Management on Osmolality in Ready‐to‐Feed Preterm Formula: Practice Implications
Authors: Levy Deborah S. , Osborn Erika , Hasenstab Kathryn A. , Nawaz Saira , Jadcherla Sudarshan R.
Published: July 2018

Background: A common osmolality threshold for feedings is to stay <450 mOsm/kg for normal infants. Preterm formulas are frequently modified to improve growth, modify nutrition, and manage gastroesophageal reflux (GER) or dysphagia. Relationships between osmolality and additives to ready‐to‐feed preterm formulas are unclear. Our aims were to evaluate and compare the effects of caloric density, thickening agent recipes, and supplements to ready‐to‐feed preterm formula on osmolality. Methods: A freezing point osmometer was used to measure the osmolality of 47 preterm infant formula combinations with varying caloric densities (ready‐to‐feed 22 and 30 cal/oz), thickening agents (rice vs oatmeal cereal), thickener amounts (0.0, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, and 3.0 tsp/oz), and combinations of supplements (saline, iron, vitamin D, or multivitamin). Ten samples per combination were tested using a 10‐μL pipette. Comparisons were made using analysis of variance and t‐tests for group and pair‐wise comparisons, respectively. Results: A total of 470 osmolality samples were analyzed: (1) raters had high agreement (r = 0.98; P < .001); (2) for every 0.5 tsp/oz of thickener, the osmolality increases by 30 mOsm/kg (P < .001); (3) osmolality was higher with the oatmeal (vs rice) thickening agent (P < .001); and (4) vitamin and electrolyte supplement combinations increase osmolality. Conclusions: Alteration of ready‐to‐feed preterm formulas may significantly increase osmolality and have unintended consequences. Caution and monitoring should be exercised with modifying ready‐to‐feed preterm formulas for regurgitation, rumination, GER, dysphagia, feeding intolerance, or emesis. This study supports the concept of achieving volume tolerance before further manipulation of additives.
Aggregation characteristics of protein during wheat flour maturation
Authors: Wang Na , Ma Sen , Li Li , Zheng Xueling
Published: July 2018

BACKGROUND

The protein aggregation characteristics of three types of freshly milled wheat flour with high, medium or low gluten were investigated during 90 days of maturation. Changes in the content and particle size of the glutenin macropolymer (GMP), contents of sulfhydryl groups and disulfide bonds (SS), and secondary structure and molecular weight distribution of the protein were determined.

RESULTS

For high, medium and low gluten flour, GMP content increased to 22.25, 13.72 and 10.32 g kg−1; free sulfhydryl group content decreased by 5.5%, 4.1% and 4.4%; and SS content increased by 1.6%, 1.8% and 2%, respectively. The proportion of β‐sheet and random coil increased, and the proportion of α‐helix and β‐turns decreased. The polymeric protein content increased, whereas that of gliadin decreased.

CONCLUSION

Protein aggregation mediated by SS cross‐linking helped develop a stronger gluten network. The findings provide theoretical support for the changes in protein structure during flour maturation and also help to predict the quality of wheat flour and its products. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Local free boundary problem for viscous compressible magnetohydrodynamics
Authors: Kacprzyk Piotr
Published: July 2018

We consider the motion of viscous compressible magnetohydrodynamics fluid in a domain bounded by a free surface. In the external domain, there is electromagnetic field generated by some currents that keeps the magnetohydrodynamics flow in the bounded domain. Then on the free surface, transmission conditions for electromagnetic fields are imposed. In this paper, we prove the existence of local regular solutions by the method of successive approximations. The L2 approach is used. This helps us to treat the transmission conditions.
Redefining and reinvigorating the role of physics in clinical medicine: A Report from the AAPM Medical Physics 3.0 Ad Hoc Committee
Authors: Samei Ehsan , Pawlicki Todd , Bourland Daniel , Chin Erika , Das Shiva , Fox Mary , Freedman D Jay , Hangiandreou Nicholas , Jordan David , Martin Melissa , Miller Robin , Pavlicek William , Pavord Daniel , Schober Lisa , Thomadsen Bruce , Whelan Brendan
Published: July 2018

Derived from 2 yr of deliberations and community engagement, Medical Physics 3.0 (MP3.0) is an effort commissioned by the American Association of Physicists in Medicine (AAPM) to devise a framework of strategies by which medical physicists can maintain and improve their integral roles in, and contributions to, health care and its innovation under conditions of rapid change and uncertainty. Toward that goal, MP3.0 advocates a broadened and refreshed model of sustainable excellence by which medical physicists can and should contribute to health care. The overarching conviction of MP3.0 is that every healthcare facility can benefit from medical physics and every patient's care can be improved by a medical physicist. This large and expansive challenge necessitates a range of strategies specific to each area of medical physics: clinical practice, research, product development, and education. The present paper offers a summary of the Phase 1 deliberations of the MP3.0 initiative pertaining to strategic directions of the discipline primarily but not exclusively oriented toward the clinical practice of medical physics in the United States.
In Situ Interface Engineering of TiO2 Nanocrystals for Fully Ambient‐Processed Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Zhai Peng , Cheng Rui , Ren Lixia , Huang Yu‐Ting , Lee Hyeonseok , Feng Shien‐Ping
Published: July 2018

By in situ anchoring of dopamine molecules onto TiO2 during the nanoparticle synthesis, ultrasmall and ultrafine dopamine‐modified TiO2 nanocrystals (DA‐TiO2) are prepared and used as a high‐performance electron transport layer (ETL) in fully ambient‐processed planar perovskite solar cells. A mesoporous PbI2 scaffold deposited on DA‐TiO2 ETL is achieved by the exposure of PbI2 film toward ambient moisture (≈50% relative humidity, RH), which enables efficient conversion of PbI2 to CH3NH3PbI3. The dopamine interlayer with terminal amino groups is deliberately incorporated between the TiO2 and perovskite interface, resulting in optimized interface band alignment and suppressed charge accumulation at the interface. The fully ambient‐processed planar CH3NH3PbI3 perovskite solar cell using DA‐TiO2 ETL delivers an optimized average power conversion efficiency of 16.94%.
The Sublime
Authors: Merritt Melissa McBay
Published: July 2018

This Element considers Kant's account of the sublime in the context of his predecessors both in the Anglophone and German rationalist traditions. Since Kant says with evident endorsement that 'we call sublime that which is absolutely great' (Critique of the Power of Judgment, 5:248) and nothing in nature can in fact be absolutely great (it can only figure as such, in certain presentations), Kant concludes that strictly speaking what is sublime can only be the human calling (Bestimmung) to perfect our rational capacity according to the standard of virtue that is thought through the moral law. The Element takes account of the difference between respect and admiration as the two main varieties of sublime feeling, and concludes by considering the role of Stoicism in Kant's account of the sublime, particularly through the channel of Seneca.
The Distribution of Identity and the Future of International Order: China's Hegemonic Prospects
Authors: Allan Bentley B. , Vucetic Srdjan , Hopf Ted
Published: July 2018

Existing theories predict that the rise of China will trigger a hegemonic transition and the current debate centers on whether or not the transition will be violent or peaceful. This debate largely sidesteps two questions that are central to understanding the future of international order: how strong is the current Western hegemonic order and what is the likelihood that China can or will lead a successful counterhegemonic challenge? We argue that the future of international order is shaped not only by material power but also by the distribution of identity across the great powers. We develop a constructivist account of hegemonic transition and stability that theorizes the role of the distribution of identity in international order. In our account, hegemonic orders depend on a legitimating ideology that must be consistent with the distribution of identity at the level of both elites and masses. We map the distribution of identity across nine great powers and assess how this distribution supports the current Western neoliberal democratic hegemony. We conclude that China is unlikely to become the hegemon in the near term.
Clinical pharmacology considerations for children supported with ventricular assist devices
Authors: Sherwin Jennifer , Thompson Elizabeth , Hill Kevin D. , Watt Kevin , Lodge Andrew J. , Gonzalez Daniel , Hornik Christoph P.
Published: July 2018

The ventricular assist device is being increasingly used as a “bridge-to-transplant” option in children with heart failure who have failed medical management. Care for this medically complex population must be optimised, including through concomitant pharmacotherapy. Pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic alterations affecting pharmacotherapy are increasingly discovered in children supported with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, another form of mechanical circulatory support. Similarities between extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and ventricular assist devices support the hypothesis that similar alterations may exist in ventricular assist device-supported patients. We conducted a literature review to assess the current data available on pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics in children with ventricular assist devices. We found two adult and no paediatric pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic studies in ventricular assist device-supported patients. While mechanisms may be partially extrapolated from children supported with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, dedicated investigation of the paediatric ventricular assist device population is crucial given the inherent differences between the two forms of mechanical circulatory support, and pathophysiology that is unique to these patients. Commonly used drugs such as anticoagulants and antibiotics have narrow therapeutic windows with devastating consequences if under-dosed or over-dosed. Clinical studies are urgently needed to improve outcomes and maximise the potential of ventricular assist devices in this vulnerable population.
The role of learning on bilinguals’ lexical architecture: Beyond separated vs. integrated lexicons
Authors: COSTA ALBERT , PICKERING MARTIN J.
Published: July 2018

How are the two lexicons of a bilingual represented and how do they interact during language processing? These questions are central to bilingualism and have been the topics of a large number of studies. Dijkstra, Wahl, Buytenhuijs, van Halem, Al-jibouri, De Korte & Rekke (in press) put forward a model that tries to capture people's behavior in several tasks mostly involving reading, with the exception of word translation. A praise-worthy feature of the model is that it is computationally implemented following a local-connectionist architecture. The model is then used to quantitatively account for reaction time patterns on various tasks, with considerable success.
Connecting Students and Mentors Through Local Research Hubs
Authors: Rathburn Sara , Putman Jill
Published: July 2018

An online database can help connect prospective student researchers with university faculty members and collaborative projects that need their help. Could this model work at your university?
Cell fate potentials and switching kinetics uncovered in a classic bistable genetic switch
Authors: Fang Xiaona , Liu Qiong , Bohrer Christopher , Hensel Zach , Han Wei , Wang Jin , Xiao Jie
Published: July 2018

Bistable switches are common gene regulatory motifs directing two mutually exclusive cell fates. Theoretical studies suggest that bistable switches are sufficient to encode more than two cell fates without rewiring the circuitry due to the non-equilibrium, heterogeneous cellular environment. However, such a scenario has not been experimentally observed. Here by developing a new, dual single-molecule gene-expression reporting system, we find that for the two mutually repressing transcription factors CI and Cro in the classic bistable bacteriophage λ switch, there exist two new production states, in which neither CI nor Cro is produced, or both CI and Cro are produced. We construct the corresponding potential landscape and map the transition kinetics among the four production states. These findings uncover cell fate potentials beyond the classical picture of bistable switches, and open a new window to explore the genetic and environmental origins of the cell fate decision-making process in gene regulatory networks.
Downregulated NDR1 protein kinase inhibits innate immune response by initiating an miR146a-STAT1 feedback loop
Authors: Liu Zhiyong , Qin Qiang , Wu Cheng , Li Hui , Shou Jia’nan , Yang Yuting , Gu Meidi , Ma Chunmei , Lin Wenlong , Zou Yan , Zhang Yuanyuan , Ma Feng , Sun Jihong , Wang Xiaojian
Published: July 2018

Interferon (IFN)-stimulated genes (ISGs) play crucial roles in the antiviral immune response; however, IFNs also induce negative regulators that attenuate the antiviral response. Here, we show that both viral and bacterial invasion downregulate Nuclear Dbf2-related kinase 1 (NDR1) expression via the type I IFN signaling pathway. NDR1 promotes the virus-induced production of type I IFN, proinflammatory cytokines and ISGs in a kinase-independent manner. NDR1 deficiency also renders mice more susceptible to viral and bacterial infections. Mechanistically, NDR1 enhances STAT1 translation by directly binding to the intergenic region of miR146a, thereby inhibiting miR146a expression and liberating STAT1 from miR146a-mediated translational inhibition. Furthermore, STAT1 binds to the miR146a promoter, thus decreasing its expression. Together, our results suggest that NDR1 promotion of STAT1 translation is an important event for IFN-dependent antiviral immune response, and suggest that NDR1 has an important role in controlling viral infections.
Altered protein turnover signaling and myogenesis during impaired recovery of inflammation-induced muscle atrophy in emphysematous mice
Authors: Ceelen Judith J. M. , Schols Annemie M. W. J. , Kneppers Anita E. M. , Rosenbrand Roger P. H. A. , Drożdż Magda M. , van Hoof Stefan J. , de Theije Chiel C. , Kelders Marco C. J. M. , Verhaegen Frank , Langen Ramon C. J.
Published: July 2018

Exacerbations in Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are often accompanied by pulmonary and systemic inflammation, and are associated with an increased susceptibility to weight loss and muscle wasting. As the emphysematous phenotype in COPD appears prone to skeletal muscle wasting, the aims of this study were to evaluate in emphysematous compared to control mice following repetitive exacerbations (1) changes in muscle mass and strength and, (2) whether muscle mass recovery and its underlying processes are impaired. Emphysema was induced by intra-tracheal (IT) elastase instillations, followed by three weekly IT-LPS instillations to mimic repetitive exacerbations. Loss of muscle mass and strength were measured, and related to analyses of muscle protein turnover and myogenesis signaling in tissue collected during and following recovery. Emphysematous mice showed impaired muscle mass recovery in response to pulmonary inflammation-induced muscle atrophy. Proteolysis and protein synthesis signaling remained significantly higher in emphysematous mice during recovery from LPS. Myogenic signaling in skeletal muscle was altered, and fusion capacity of cultured muscle cells treated with plasma derived from LPS-treated emphysematous mice was significantly decreased. In conclusion, repetitive cycles of pulmonary inflammation elicit sustained muscle wasting in emphysematous mice due to impaired muscle mass recovery, which is accompanied by aberrant myogenesis.