bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Temperature‐Responsive Boronate Core Cross‐Linked Star (CCS) Polymer for Fast and Highly Efficient Enrichment of Glycoproteins
Authors: Chen Yaxin , Tong Jiexiang , Dong Jiahao , Luo Jing , Liu Xiaoya
Published: February 2019

Fast and highly efficient enrichment and separation of glycoproteins is essential in many biological applications, but the lack of materials with high capture capacity, fast, and efficient enrichment/separation makes it a challenge. Here, a temperature‐responsive core cross‐linked star (CCS) polymer with boronate affinity is reported for fast and efficient enriching and separating of glycoproteins from biological samples. The temperature‐responsive CCS polymers containing boronic acid in its polymeric arms and poly(N‐isopropyl acrylamide) in its cross‐linked core are prepared using reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer polymerization via an “arm‐first” methodology. The soluble boronate polymeric arms of the CCS polymers provide a homogeneous reaction system and facilitate interactions between boronic acid and glycoproteins, which leads to a fast binding/desorption speed and high capture capacity. Maximum binding capacity of the prepared CCS polymer for horseradish peroxidase is determined to be 210 mg g−1, which can be achieved within 20 min. More interestingly, the temperature‐responsive CCS polymers exhibit rapid reversible thermal‐induced volume phase transition by increasing the temperature from 15 to 30 °C, resulting in a facile and convenient sample collection and recovery for the target glycoproteins. Finally, the temperature‐responsive CCS polymer is successfully applied to enrichment of low abundant glycoproteins.
Recent Advances for MOF‐Derived Carbon‐Supported Single‐Atom Catalysts
Authors: Han Aijuan , Wang Bingqing , Kumar Anuj , Qin Yongji , Jin Jing , Wang Xinhe , Yang Can , Dong Bo , Jia Yin , Liu Junfeng , Sun Xiaoming
Published: February 2019

Single‐atom catalysts have drawn considerable attention because of their unique catalytic properties. However, the high surface energy of single atoms restricts their fabrication and creates significant challenges for further developments. In order to overcome this problem, metal organic framework (MOF)‐derived carbon materials can be served as ideal supports to anchor atomically dispersed metal atoms, due to their tunable particle size and shape features, by providing high surface area, porosity, thermal, and chemical stability. This review highlights the recent advances in i) different types of construction strategies for MOF‐derived carbon‐supported single‐atom catalysts, and ii) the catalytic applications of these MOF‐derived carbon‐supported single‐atom catalysts. Further, this review offers a valuable insight into the current challenges and future opportunities for MOF‐derived carbon‐supported single‐atom catalysts.
Fabrication of Superior Single‐Atom Catalysts toward Diverse Electrochemical Reactions
Authors: Zhang Bin‐Wei , Wang Yun‐Xiao , Chou Shu‐Lei , Liu Hua‐Kun , Dou Shi‐Xue
Published: February 2019

Single metal atom catalysts on supports have become a new frontier in the field of catalysts, which possess the maximum atomic utilization efficiency and have an unsaturated coordination environment. With their unique electronic and structural properties, single metal atoms usually show distinctive catalytic performance toward various chemical reactions. It is challenging, however, to synthesize stable single metal atom catalysts because of their high surface energy and tendency toward aggregation. Herein, recently reported advanced preparation methods for single metal atoms, with a particular focus on how to stabilize these single metal atoms against migration and aggregation, are summarized. In addition, the electrochemical conversion and storage applications of single metal atoms are discussed in detail with a special emphasis on the oxygen reduction reaction, oxygen evolution reaction, hydrogen evolution reaction, and carbon dioxide reduction reaction, as well as on their use in batteries. Finally, the current challenges and opportunities for the development of this field are addressed.
Functional Macro‐Microporous Metal–Organic Frameworks for Improving the Catalytic Performance
Authors: Hu Yu , Xu Xiujie , Zheng Bing , Hou Shanshan , Wang Peng , Chen Wanzheng , Gao Cong , Gu Zhida , Shen Yu , Wu Jiansheng , Fu Yu , Zhang Weina , Huo Fengwei
Published: February 2019

Constructing hierarchical pore structures in metal–organic frameworks (H‐MOFs) can significantly enhance their catalytic performance. However, common strategies for preparing H‐MOFs only focus on creating hierarchical pores to facilitate the molecular diffusion but neglect the synergistic effect of hierarchical pores with multiactive sites in H‐MOFs. Therefore, the development of a suitable strategy with hierarchical pores and multiactive sites in H‐MOFs serving as multifunctional and efficient catalysts is highly desired. In this work, a facile strategy is developed to prepare functional nanoparticles (NPs)/MOFs catalysts with a macro‐microporous structure (NPs/M‐MOFs) and multiactive sites (more NPs and base sites) through template etching and immersion reduction. The as‐prepared Pt/M‐zeolitic imidazolate framework‐8 (ZIF‐8) shows high performance in the Knoevenagel condensation−hydrogenation two‐steps catalytic reaction, mainly due to the existence of macropores in the ZIF‐8 and the exposure of the multiactive sites (more Pt NPs and base sites). This strategy is potentially extendable to other series of MOFs for structuring functional NPs/M‐MOFs catalysts that can optimize the performance of catalytic reaction.
Spatially Resolved Identification of Shunt Defects in Thin Film Solar Cells via Current Transport Efficiency Imaging Combined with 3D Finite Element Modeling
Authors: Ren Aobo , Xu Hao , Zhang Jiaqi , Hung Hsianghung , Delamarre Amaury , Watanabe Kentaroh , Zhang Jingquan , Wu Lili , Liu Cai , Sugiyama Masakazu
Published: February 2019

Inhomogeneously distributed shunt defects significantly reduce the performance of thin film solar cells. The existing uses of simple equivalent circuit models and lumped cell‐level parameters are insufficient to understand the behaviors of different shunting types. This study demonstrates how the reciprocity theorem, which bridges the relationship between the terminal differential changes and local responses of a solar cell, for the current transport efficiency can be used to spatially identify ohmic and nonohmic shunt defects exemplified in CdTe solar cells. Differential electroluminescence imaging and three‐dimensional finite element modeling are used to determine the current transport efficiency images. Due to the specific local differential conductance behaviors, the application of current transport efficiency imaging for the detailed analysis of different shunt defects is successfully verified in both experimental and simulation methods. In addition, the influences of two types of shunt defects on the electrical potentials and current flow of a cell are discussed. The modeling results indicate that a nonohmic shunt defect with a larger junction voltage dip and leakage current is more detrimental than an ohmic shunt defect within the cell.
Concrete panel thickness demand for the design of composite steel plate shear wall
Authors: Qi Yi , Gu Qiang , Sun Guohua , Zhao Baocheng , Wang Huafei
Published: February 2019

Composite steel plate shear walls (C‐SPWs) are composed of an infill steel plate and reinforced concrete encasements. With an adequate thickness, the concrete encasement can effectively prevent the premature buckling of the infill steel plate. Researchers have provided nonconservative concrete thickness demands through analyses of approximate elastic buckling, for which the analytical model is too simplistic to simulate C‐SPW buckling. In this paper, the buckling of C‐SPW is addressed using a nonlinear finite element method. To assist this method, a formula for the buckling strength of C‐SPW is theoretically developed. Utilizing the results of nonlinear finite element analysis on C‐SPW, the effects of concrete panel thickness, concrete elastic modulus, infill steel plate thickness, panel aspect ratio, and stud spacing on the infill steel plate buckling are analyzed, and the critical drift ratio corresponding to the buckling of the infill steel plate is obtained. According to the criterion that the C‐SPW will not buckle until its drift ratio achieves the drift limit (0.4%), the minimum concrete panel thicknesses demands are captured from finite element analysis. Fitting these predicted minimum concrete thicknesses, an available formula is proposed for the concrete thickness demand in the design of C‐SPW.
Spatial genetic analysis of coyotes in New York State
Authors: Berkman Leah K. , Frair Jacqueline L. , Marquardt Paula E. , Donner Deahn M. , Kilgo John C. , Whipps Christopher M.
Published: February 2019

The robust dispersal capability of the coyote (Canis latrans) would suggest a pattern of widespread gene flow across North America, yet historical legacies, dispersal barriers, and habitat affinities may produce or reinforce genetic structure. In the northeastern United States, some coyotes carry genetic signatures from past hybridization events with eastern wolves (C. lupus lycaon). These so‐called “coywolves” may have differential predation or competitive success compared with the western origin coyotes with whom they share the contemporary landscape. We sampled coyote populations from New York (n = 156) and Wyoming, USA (n = 8) in 2006–2007 and from South Carolina, USA, in 2010 and confirmed regional genetic structure among these coyote populations. Then, within the putative contact zone between the northeastern and western coyote colonization fronts (New York State), we evaluated evidence for broad‐ and fine‐sale genetic structure, and a genetic gradient among New York coyotes using a suite of spatial genetic analyses. Although broad‐scale analyses indicated New York coyotes were highly intermixed, subtle isolation‐by‐distance was detected, and local spatial autocorrelation indicated potentially shorter dispersal distances and larger group sizes for coyotes in the Northeastern Highlands (Adirondack Mountains and foothills). Yet we failed to detect a distinct contact zone between 2 coyote types in New York, indicating that local abundance and ecological context rather than genetic lineage are likely to determine the local ecological effects of coyotes in this region. We suggest that the contact zone between coyote colonization fronts has either eroded or moved further south. © 2019 The Wildlife Society.
A numerical formulation of resummation in effective field theory
Authors: Bauer Christian W. , Monni Pier Francesco
Published: February 2019

Abstract

In this article we show how the resummation of infrared and collinear logarithms within Soft-Collinear Effective Theory (SCET) can be formulated in a way that makes it suitable for a Monte-Carlo implementation. This is done by applying the techniques developed for automated resummation using the branching formalism, which have resulted in the general resummation approach CAESAR/ARES. This work builds a connection between the two resummation approaches, and paves the way to automated resummation in SCET. As a case study we consider the resummation of the thrust distribution in electron-positron collisions at next-to-leading logarithm (NLL). The generalization of the results presented here to more complicated observables as well as to higher logarithmic orders will be considered in a future publication.
Doubled aspects of generalised dualities and integrable deformations
Authors: Demulder Saskia , Hassler Falk , Thompson Daniel C.
Published: February 2019

Abstract

The worldsheet theories that describe Poisson-Lie T-dualisable σ-models on group manifolds as well as integrable η, λ and β-deformations provide examples of ℰ-models. Here we show how such ℰ-models can be given an elegant target space description within Double Field Theory by specifying explicitly generalised frame fields forming an algebra under the generalised Lie derivative. With this framework we can extract simple criteria for the R/R fields and the dilaton that extend the ℰ-model conditions to type II backgrounds. In particular this gives conditions for a type II background to be Poisson-Lie T-dualisable. Our approach gives rise to algebraic field equations for Poisson-Lie symmetric spacetimes and provides an effective tool for their study.
The Modified Semi‐lateral Transmesocolic Approach for Laparoscopic Left Adrenalectomy
Authors: Wind Philippe , Genser Laurent , Zarzavadjian Le Bian Alban
Published: February 2019

Background

As the most appropriate laparoscopic approach for adrenalectomy is still a matter of debate, we present a modified technique of laparoscopic transmesocolic approach for left adrenalectomy.

Methods

All demographics, intraoperative and postoperative data of patients who underwent laparoscopic transmesocolic left adrenalectomy from 2009 to 2015 in Avicenne Hospital were recorded.

Results

Thirty‐three consecutive patients underwent laparoscopic transmesocolic left adrenalectomy. We observed no conversion, negligible blood loss, no red cell transfusion or intraoperative complication. Mean operative time reached 96 min (range: 40–200 min). Postoperatively, the median length of hospital stay was 5 days (range: 3–8 days), mortality was nil, and six (19%) patients suffered from complication, including one major complication (Clavien–Dindo III–IV, an abdominal collection treated with radiologic drainage). R0 resection was achieved in all patients.

Conclusion

Laparoscopic left adrenalectomy using semi‐lateral transperitoneal transmesocolic approach is feasible and safe with acceptable intraoperative and perioperative outcomes. This technique could be considered as a routine approach and should be compared in further studies.
Increase ethyl acetate production in Saccharomyces cerevisiae by genetic engineering of ethyl acetate metabolic pathway
Authors: Dong Jian , Wang Pengfei , Fu Xiaomeng , Dong Shengsheng , Li Xiao , Xiao Dongguang
Published: February 2019

Ethyl acetate has attracted much attention as an important chemical raw material and a flavor component of alcoholic beverages. In this study, the biosynthetic pathway for the production of ethyl acetate in Chinese liquor yeast was unblocked. In addition to engineering Saccharomyces cerevisiae to increased intracellular CoA and acetyl-CoA levels, we also increased the combining efficiency of acetyl-CoA to ethanol. The genes encoding phosphopantothenate-cysteine ligase, acetyl-CoA synthetase, and alcohol acetyltransferase were overexpressed by inserting the strong promoter PGK1p and the terminator PGK1t, respectively, and then combine them. Our results finally showed that the ethyl acetate levels of all engineering strains were improved. The final engineering strain CLy12a-ATF1-ACS2-CAB2 had a significant increase in ethyl acetate yield, reaching 610.26 (± 14.28) mg/L, and the yield of higher alcohols was significantly decreased. It is proved that the modification of ethyl acetate metabolic pathway is extremely important for the production of ethyl acetate from Saccharomyces cerevisiae.
Molecular characterization of Ecuadorian quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) diversity: implications for conservation and breeding
Authors: Salazar Juan , de Lourdes Torres María , Gutierrez Bernardo , Torres Andrés Francisco
Published: February 2019

Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) is recognized as an important crop to improve global food security. It has gained international recognition because of the nutritional value of its seeds and its broad agronomic resilience. Although several studies have attempted to characterize the genetic diversity of quinoa, none have focused on evaluating germplasm from Ecuador; the latter considered a relevant subcenter of diversity for the species. In this study, 84 accessions representing the species’ cultivated range in the Ecuadorian Andes were characterized using 15 species-specific SSR markers. The extent of allelic richness (196 alleles) and genetic heterozygosity (HE = 0.71) detected for these accessions demonstrate that Ecuadorian quinoa is highly diverse. Phenetic analyzes structured Ecuadorian germplasm into 3 subgroups; each containing genotypes from all surveyed provinces. Average expected heterozygosity was high for all 3 subgroups (0.53 ≤ HE ≤ 0.72), and Nei-pairwise comparisons showed significant genetic divergence among them (0.31 ≤ NeiDST ≤ 0.84). The lack of a clear geographic pattern in the genetic structure of Ecuadorian quinoa led us to believe that the 3 reported subgroups constitute independent genetic lineages representing ancestral landrace populations which have been disseminated throughout Ecuador via informal seed networks. Nevertheless, a Wilcoxon test showed that at least one subgroup had been subject to intensive inbreeding and selection; and possibly corresponds to the local commercial variety INIAP-Tunkahuan. Our results show that ancestral quinoa diversity in Ecuador has prevailed despite the introduction of commercial varieties, and should be preserved for future use in breeding programs.
Modelling deep indeterminacy
Authors: Darby George , Pickup Martin
Published: February 2019

This paper constructs a model of metaphysical indeterminacy that can accommodate a kind of ‘deep’ worldly indeterminacy that arguably arises in quantum mechanics via the Kochen–Specker theorem, and that is incompatible with prominent theories of metaphysical indeterminacy such as that in Barnes and Williams (Oxf Stud Metaphys 6:103–148, 2011). We construct a variant of Barnes and Williams’s theory that avoids this problem. Our version builds on situation semantics and uses incomplete, local situations rather than possible worlds to build a model. We evaluate the resulting theory and contrast it with similar alternatives, concluding that our model successfully captures deep indeterminacy.
Are the existing EU Ecolabel criteria for furniture products too complex? An analysis of complexity from a material and a supply chain perspective and suggestions for ways ahead
Authors: Donatello Shane , Cordella Mauro , Kaps Renata , Kowalska Malgorzata , Wolf Oliver
Published: February 2019

Purpose

One possible reason for the poor uptake of the EU Ecolabel for furniture products may be that the criteria are too complex for applicants. Consequently, it was decided to develop a method which quantifies criteria complexity and subsequently, to propose ways for its reduction, which could be considered in future criteria revision.

Methods

The requirements behind the voluntary EU Ecolabel criteria for furniture products set out in Commission Decision (EU) 2016/1332 have been scored with a “criteria complexity index” (CCI), based on the answers to a series of six questions that relate to the effort required for proper assessment and verification. The criteria, and associated CCI values, have been grouped on a per material basis, allowing a “material complexity index” (MCI) to be calculated and consequently, a “furniture complexity index” (FCI) has been calculated as a function of the materials in different furniture products.

Results and discussion

Overall, it was found that CCI values can differ depending on the actual supply chain scenario, that textiles and leather had much higher MCI values than all other materials and that the FCI was completely dependent on the materials the furniture product was composed of. FCI values were much lower in general for non-upholstered furniture.

Conclusions

The FCI scores can be greatly reduced by the following: (i) using fewer materials in the product; (ii) having shorter supply chains; (iii) using uncoated metals, or at least carrying out coating in-house; (iv) using solid wood instead of wood-based panels; and (v) identifying competent and communicative suppliers who are especially well-informed about chemicals used. Since furniture manufacturers only have limited scope to make these changes, it is more effective to change the way the criteria are structured in future revisions in order to make the criteria more fairly balanced and flexible for potential applicants. Key points about any future restructuring would be to make the chemical requirements more SME friendly and to consider moving away from a rigid pass–fail approach to a more flexible scoring approach.
Harmonisation of stem volume estimates in European National Forest Inventories
Authors: Gschwantner Thomas , Alberdi Iciar , Balázs András , Bauwens Sébastien , Bender Susann , Borota Dragan , Bosela Michal , Bouriaud Olivier , Cañellas Isabel , Donis Jānis , Freudenschuß Alexandra , Hervé Jean-Christophe , Hladnik David , Jansons Jurģis , Kolozs László , Korhonen Kari T. , Kucera Milos , Kulbokas Gintaras , Kuliešis Andrius , Lanz Adrian , Lejeune Philippe , Lind Torgny , Marin Gheorghe , Morneau François , Nagy Dóra , Nord-Larsen Thomas , Nunes Leónia , Pantić Damjan , Paulo Joana A. , Pikula Tomas , Redmond John , Rego Francisco C. , Riedel Thomas , Saint-André Laurent , Šebeň Vladimír , Sims Allan , Skudnik Mitja , Solti György , Tomter Stein M. , Twomey Mark , Westerlund Bertil , Zell Jürgen
Published: February 2019

Key message

Volume predictions of sample trees are basic inputs for essential National Forest Inventory (NFI) estimates. The predicted volumes are rarely comparable among European NFIs because of country-specific dbh-thresholds and differences regarding the inclusion of the tree parts stump, stem top, and branches. Twenty-one European NFIs implemented harmonisation measures to provide consistent stem volume predictions for comparable forest resource estimates.

Context

The harmonisation of forest information has become increasingly important. International programs and interest groups from the wood industry, energy, and environmental sectors require comparable information. European NFIs as primary source of forest information are well-placed to support policies and decision-making processes with harmonised estimates.

Aims

The main objectives were to present the implementation of stem volume harmonisation by European NFIs, to obtain comparable growing stocks according to five reference definitions, and to compare the different results.

Methods

The applied harmonisation approach identifies the deviations between country-level and common reference definitions. The deviations are minimised through country-specific bridging functions. Growing stocks were calculated from the un-harmonised, and harmonised stem volume estimates and comparisons were made.

Results

The country-level growing stock results differ from the Cost Action E43 reference definition between − 8 and + 32%. Stumps and stem tops together account for 4 to 13% of stem volume, and large branches constitute 3 to 21% of broadleaved growing stock. Up to 6% of stem volume is allocated below the dbh-threshold.

Conclusion

Comparable volume figures are available for the first time on a large-scale in Europe. The results indicate the importance of harmonisation for international forest statistics. The presented work contributes to the NFI harmonisation process in Europe in several ways regarding comparable NFI reporting and scenario modelling.
Posttraumatic stress disorder and total amyloid burden and amyloid‐β 42/40 ratios in plasma: Results from a pilot study of World Trade Center responders
Authors: Clouston Sean A.P. , Deri Yael , Diminich Erica , Kew Richard , Kotov Roman , Stewart Candace , Yang Xiaohua , Gandy Sam , Sano Mary , Bromet Evelyn J. , Luft Benjamin J.
Published: February 2019

Introduction

Chronic posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is associated with poor memory and increased burden of various degenerative cerebral neuropathologies. The goal of this pilot study was to determine whether PTSD was associated with changes in plasma‐based neuropathological biomarkers of neurodegeneration among World Trade Center (WTC) responders.

Methods

Thirty‐four WTC responders had blood drawn and flash‐frozen within 15 minutes of retrieval. PTSD symptoms were assessed at that time. Age, sex, and WTC exposure duration were obtained from medical records. Plasma was assayed in duplicate using an ultra‐sensitive single‐molecule enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay to examine the distribution of amyloid‐β (Aβ) 42/40 ratios, total Aβ, total tau, and neurofilament light (NfL). The comparison group was drawn from a bank of healthy controls collected and assayed at the same facility.

Results

The average age of WTC responders at blood draw was 53 years. Half were PTSD positive (PTSD+) as indicated by symptom severity. WTC responders had lower Aβ42/Aβ40 ratios but higher total tau and NfL levels in the plasma than healthy controls. PTSD+ status was associated with lower plasma Aβ load and higher Aβ42/Aβ40 ratios.

Discussion

Findings suggest that PTSD may be associated with alterations in plasma markers related to Aβ, tau, and NfL, highlighting the potential association between PTSD status and neurodegenerative neuropathology in WTC responders.
MIND not Mediterranean diet related to 12‐year incidence of cognitive impairment in an Australian longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Hosking Diane E. , Eramudugolla Ranmalee , Cherbuin Nicolas , Anstey Kaarin J.
Published: February 2019

Introduction

Associations between the Mediterranean‐DASH diet Intervention for Neurological Delay (MIND) diet and incidence of cognitive impairment have not been evaluated outside the United States.

Methods

We investigated MIND and Mediterranean diet relations with 12‐year incidence of Alzheimer's disease/Vascular dementia (National Institute of Neurological Disorders criteria) and mild cognitive impairment (Winbald criteria) in the Personality and Total Health (PATH) Through Life cohort (n = 1220) set in Canberra, Australia: wave‐1 2001‐2002; wave‐2 2005‐2006; wave‐3 2009‐2010; and wave‐4 2013‐2014.

MIND diet and two alternate Mediterranean diet scores were calculated from the baseline food frequency questionnaire responses. Higher dietary scores signified greater adherence.

Results

In adjusted logistic regression models, MIND diet (OR = 0.47, 95% CI 0.24, 0.91), but not Mediterranean diet, was associated with reduced odds of 12‐year cognitive impairment.

Discussion

Preliminary evidence suggests that protective effects of the MIND diet are geographically generalizable. Additional prospective studies are needed in diverse samples to determine the relative effects of the MIND and the Mediterranean diets against cognitive decline.
Living with Migraine in Canada – A National Community-Based Study
Authors: Altura Kristianne Chelsea , Patten Scott B. , Williams Jeanne V. A. , Fiest Kirsten M. , Jetté Nathalie
Published: February 2019

Objective:To develop a detailed profile of individuals living with migraine in Canada. Such a profile is important for planning and administration of services.Methods:The 2011–2012 Survey of Living with Neurological Conditions in Canada (SLNCC), a cross-sectional community-based survey, was used to examine a representative sample of migraineurs (N= 949) aged 15 years and older. Several health-related variables were examined (e.g., general health, health utility index (HUI) [a measure of health status and health-related quality of life, where dead = 0.00 and perfect health = 1.00], stigma, depression, and social support). Respondents were further stratified by sex, age, and age of migraine onset. Weighted overall and stratified prevalence estimates and odds ratios, both with 95% CIs, were used to estimate associations.Results:Overall, males had poorer health status compared with females (e.g., mean HUI was 0.67 in males vs. 0.82 in females; men had over two times the odds of their migraine limiting educational and job opportunities compared with females). Poorer health-related variables were seen in the older age groups (35–64 years/≥65 years) compared with the 15–34-year age group. There were no differences between those whose migraine symptoms began before versus after the age of 20 years.Conclusions:In this Canadian sample, migraine was associated with worse health-related variables in men compared with women. However, both men and women were significantly affected by migraine across various health-related variables. Thus, it is important to improve clinical and public health interventions addressing the impact of migraine across individuals of all ages, sexes, and sociodemographic backgrounds.
Generation mechanism of a hierarchy of vortices in a turbulent boundary layer
Authors: Motoori Yutaro , Goto Susumu
Published: February 2019

To understand the generation mechanism of a hierarchy of multiscale vortices in a high-Reynolds-number turbulent boundary layer, we conduct direct numerical simulations and educe the hierarchy of vortices by applying a coarse-graining method to the simulated turbulent velocity field. When the Reynolds number is high enough for the premultiplied energy spectrum of the streamwise velocity component to show the second peak and for the energy spectrum to obey the$-5/3$power law, small-scale vortices, that is, vortices sufficiently smaller than the height from the wall, in the log layer are generated predominantly by the stretching in strain-rate fields at larger scales rather than by the mean-flow stretching. In such a case, the twice-larger scale contributes most to the stretching of smaller-scale vortices. This generation mechanism of small-scale vortices is similar to the one observed in fully developed turbulence in a periodic cube and consistent with the picture of the energy cascade. On the other hand, large-scale vortices, that is, vortices as large as the height, are stretched and amplified directly by the mean flow. We show quantitative evidence of these scale-dependent generation mechanisms of vortices on the basis of numerical analyses of the scale-dependent enstrophy production rate. We also demonstrate concrete examples of the generation process of the hierarchy of multiscale vortices.
Interfacial phenomena in immiscible liquids subjected to vibrations in microgravity
Authors: Salgado Sánchez P. , Yasnou V. , Gaponenko Y. , Mialdun A. , Porter J. , Shevtsova V.
Published: February 2019

We consider the response to periodic forcing between 5 Hz and 50 Hz of an interface separating immiscible fluids under the microgravity conditions of a parabolic flight. Two pairs of liquids with viscosity ratios differing by one order of magnitude are investigated. By combining experimental data with numerical simulations, we describe a variety of dynamics including harmonic and subharmonic (Faraday) waves, frozen waves and drop ejection, determining their thresholds and scaling properties when possible. Interaction between these various modes is facilitated in microgravity by the relative ease with which the interface can move, altering its orientation with respect to the forcing axis. The effects of key factors controlling pattern selection are analysed, including vibrational forcing, viscosity ratio, finite-size effects and residual gravity. Complex behaviour often arises with features on several spatial scales, such as Faraday waves excited on the interface of a larger columnar structure that develops due to the frozen wave instability – this type of state was previously seen in miscible fluid experiments but is described for the first time here in the immiscible case.
Racial and ethnic differences in predictors of vitamin D among pregnant women in south-eastern USA
Authors: Chawla Devika , Daniels Julie L. , Benjamin-Neelon Sara E. , Fuemmeler Bernard F. , Hoyo Cathrine , Buckley Jessie P.
Published: February 2019

Insufficient vitamin D during pregnancy increases risk of adverse outcomes, with known differences by race/ethnicity. We sought to determine whether predictors of vitamin D insufficiency vary by race/ethnicity in an ethnically diverse pregnancy cohort. Plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations and patient characteristics were measured at first prenatal visit to prenatal clinics in south-eastern USA between 2009 and 2011 (n 504). Prevalence ratios (PR) and 95 % CI were estimated using multivariable regression to quantify predictors of vitamin D insufficiency, overall and by race/ethnicity. In race/ethnicity-stratified models, season was most associated with vitamin D insufficiency among non-Hispanic white women; PR for winter v. summer were 3·58 (95 % CI 1·64, 7·81) for non-Hispanic white, 1·52 (95 % CI 1·18, 1·95) for Hispanic and 1·14 (95 % CI 0·99, 1·30) for non-Hispanic black women. Although women with darker skin tones are most vulnerable to prenatal vitamin D insufficiency, season may be more strongly associated with insufficiency among women with lighter skin tones.
Through the Grapevine: Informational Consequences of Interpersonal Political Communication
Authors: CARLSON TAYLOR N.
Published: February 2019

Much of the US public acquires political information socially. However, the consequences of acquiring information from others instead of the media are under-explored. I conduct a “telephone-game” experiment to examine how information changes as it flows from official reports to news outlets to other people, finding that social information is empirically different from news articles. In a second experiment on a nationally representative sample, I randomly assign participants to read a news article or a social message about that article generated in Study 1. Participants exposed to social information learned significantly less than participants who were exposed to the news article. However, individuals exposed to information from someone who is like-minded and knowledgeable learned the same objective facts as those who received information from the media. Although participants learned the same factual information from these ideal informants as they did from the media, they had different subjective evaluations.
Molecular identification of zoonotic hookworms in dogs from four counties of Kenya
Authors: Mulinge E. , Njenga S.M. , Odongo D. , Magambo J. , Zeyhle E. , Mbae C. , Kagendo D. , Kanyi H. , Traub R.J. , Wassermann M. , Kern P. , Romig T.
Published: February 2019

All canine hookworms are known to be zoonotic, causing infections ranging from transient skin irritations to prolonged ‘creeping eruptions’, eosinophilic enteritis and even patent intestinal infections. There is little information on canine hookworm species and their public health significance in sub-Saharan Africa. This study determined the prevalence and species of hookworms in dogs from different climatic zones of Kenya. Dog faecal samples were collected from the environment, and hookworm eggs were isolated by zinc chloride flotation and subjected to DNA extraction. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays targeting the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) 1 and 2, 5.8S and 28S ribosomal RNA ofAncylostomaspp. andUncinaria stenocephalawere performed, and hookworm species were identified by PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) or DNA sequencing. Hookworm eggs were detected by microscopy in 490/1621 (30.23%, 95% CI 28.01–32.54) faecal samples. Estimates of faecal prevalence were high in counties receiving higher rainfall (Narok 46.80%, Meru 44.88%) and low in those with a more arid climate (Isiolo 19.73%, Turkana 11.83%). In a subset of 70 faecal samples,Ancylostoma caninum(n = 59) was the most common species, followed byA. braziliense(n = 10) andA.cf.duodenale(n = 1). This study reports for the first time the detection ofA.cf.duodenalein dog faeces and zoonotic hookworm species in Kenyan dogs. These findings emphasize the need for control measures such as enforcing laws for restraining stray dogs, regular deworming of dogs, and public health awareness programmes aimed at informing communities on outdoor use of footwear.
Assessment of non-response in quality control of nasal septal surgery
Authors: Haye R , Egeland M T , Døsen L K , Gay C , TarAngen M , Shiryaeva O
Published: February 2019

Objective

This study evaluated the effect of mail non-response on the validity of the results of nasal septal surgery.

Method

Six months post-operatively, questionnaires with both prospective and retrospective ratings were mailed to patients. Patients who did not respond (non-responders) were contacted by telephone. This study compared two cohorts of patients using different interviewers (a nurse and a surgeon). Cohort one consisted of 182 patients (with 67 per cent mail response), and cohort two consisted of 454 patients (with 64.8 per cent mail response).

Results

In both cohorts, the improvement in obstruction scores was significantly better among mail responders than among non-responders (telephone interviewees) using prospective ratings, but worse using retrospective ratings.

Conclusion

Mail responders had better improvement in nasal obstruction after septoplasty than non-responders. Therefore, low response rates may cause an overestimation of the results. The retrospective ratings obtained through telephone interviews are less reliable because they are influenced by memory and the patients’ tendency to give socially acceptable answers.
Longitudinal study of Amphibiocystidium sp. infection in a natural population of the Italian stream frog (Rana italica)
Authors: Fagotti Anna , Rossi Roberta , Canestrelli Daniele , La Porta Gianandrea , Paracucchi Romina , Lucentini Livia , Simoncelli Francesca , Di Rosa Ines
Published: February 2019

Mesomycetozoean-induced infections (order Dermocystida, genusAmphibiocystidium) in European and North American amphibians are causing alarm. To date, the pathogenicity of these parasites in field conditions has been poorly studied, and demographic consequences on amphibian populations have not been explored. In this study, anAmphibiocystidiumsp. infection is reported in a natural population of the Italian stream frog (Rana italica) of Central Italy, over a 7-year period from 2008 to 2014. Light and electron microscope examinations, as well as partial 18S rDNA sequence analysis were used to characterize the parasite. Moreover, a capture-mark-recapture study was conducted to assess the frog demographics in response to infection. Negative effects of amphibiocystidiosis on individual survival and population fitness were absent throughout the sampling period, despite the high estimates of disease prevalence. This might have been due to resistance and/or tolerance strategies developed by the frogs in response to the persistence ofAmphibiocystidiuminfection in this system. We hypothesized that in the examinedR. italicapopulation, amphibiocystidiosis is an ongoing endemic/epidemic infection. However, ecological and host-specific factors, interacting in a synergistic fashion, might be responsible for variations in the susceptibility toAmphibiocystidiuminfection of both conspecific populations and heterospecific individuals ofR. italica.
Psychological and social outcomes of sport participation for older adults: a systematic review
Authors: Kim Amy Chan Hyung , Park So Hyun , Kim Sanghoon , Fontes-Comber Ashlee
Published: February 2019

Sport participation is well known to promote health outcomes for children and adolescents. Nevertheless, there is insufficient evidence about the psychological and social outcomes of sport participation for older adults. This article provides the results of a systematic review of the psychological and social outcomes of sport participation for older adults. A systematic review of seven electronic databases was conducted and a total of 21 studies published that attended to psychological and/or social health benefits from sport participation of older adults (50 years old and over) were included. The outcomes of older adults’ sport participation included life satisfaction, depression, anxiety, stress, mood state, hedonistic values, socialisation, competition, and personal psychological outcomes such as personal empowerment, self-confidence, self-esteem and resistance to the negative view of ageing. Future studies are needed to conceptualise and operationalise the different levels of involvement of sport participation.
Countable additivity, idealization, and conceptual realism
Authors: Liu Yang
Published: February 2019

This paper addresses the issue of finite versus countable additivity in Bayesian probability and decision theory – in particular, Savage’s theory of subjective expected utility and personal probability. I show that Savage’s reason for not requiring countable additivity in his theory is inconclusive. The assessment leads to an analysis of various highly idealized assumptions commonly adopted in Bayesian theory, where I argue that a healthy dose of, what I call, conceptual realism is often helpful in understanding the interpretational value of sophisticated mathematical structures employed in applied sciences like decision theory. In the last part, I introduce countable additivity into Savage’s theory and explore some technical properties in relation to other axioms of the system.
Outcomes and Impacts of 10-Year HTA Implementation in Taiwan
Authors: Kao Kai-Ling , Huang Li-Ying , Wu Yen-Hui , Gau Churn-Shiouh
Published: February 2019

Objectives

In 2007, Taiwan began conducting health technology assessments (HTA) to support the National Health Insurance Administration (NHIA) in its reimbursement decisions for drugs, medical devices, and medical services.

Methods

In this study, the development, missions, and procedures of the implementation of HTA in Taiwan are briefly introduced. Moreover, the value of HTA is examined by reviewing the outcomes and impacts of recent HTA-related research projects, which are classified into five categories: (i) pharmaceutical products, (ii) medical procedures, (iii) medical devices, (iv) health policy, and (v) social care.

Results

Overall, the 10-year implementation of HTA has not only supported the government's decision making but also enhanced patient care. Furthermore, patient evidence has been highlighted, and patient care pathways have been transformed through patient involvement in HTA.

Conclusions

In conclusion, HTA's value has been determined by both government and social aspects in Taiwan.
Interactive effects of temperature, carbon dioxide and watering regime on seed germinability of two genotypes ofArabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Abo Gamar Mohammad I. , Qaderi Mirwais M.
Published: February 2019

We examined the combined effects of temperature, carbon dioxide (CO2) and watering regime during seed maturation on subsequent germinability and total phenolics ofArabidopsis thaliana[wild-type (WT) andabi1-1mutant] seeds. Mature seeds were collected from plants that were grown under lower (22/18°C, 16 h light and 8 h dark) or higher (28/24°C, 16 h light and 8 h dark) temperatures, at ambient (400 μmol mol–1) or elevated (700 μmol mol–1) CO2concentration, and well-watered or water-stressed. Germinated and non-germinated (viable, rotten and empty) seed percentages, germination rate and total phenolics were determined for both genotypes. Higher maturation temperatures increased seed germination percentage, but decreased germination rate, percentage of rotten and non-germinated viable seeds, and total phenolics. Elevated CO2increased seed total phenolics. Water stress decreased the percentage of non-germinated viable seeds. Neither of the two latter factors affected other measured parameters. Seeds of theabi1-1mutant had higher total phenolics. The fate of seeds was mostly affected by higher temperatures and water stress. Also, seeds of theabi1-1mutant had higher germination rate, empty seed percentage and total phenolics than seeds of the WT genotype. Germination percentage was highest for the WT seeds that matured on the water-stressed plants that were grown under higher temperatures at ambient CO2. It can be concluded that higher temperatures had highest effects on seed germinability and other parameters, and elevated CO2did not alleviate the negative effects of higher temperatures on seed viability.
Enhanced Recruitment During Executive Control Processing in Cognitively Preserved Patients With Pediatric-Onset MS
Authors: Barlow-Krelina Emily , Turner Gary R. , Akbar Nadine , Banwell Brenda , Lysenko Magdalena , Yeh E. Ann , Narayanan Sridar , Collins D. Louis , Aubert-Broche Bérengère , Till Christine
Published: February 2019

Objectives: Youth and young adults with pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis (MS) are vulnerable to executive dysfunction; however, some patients do not demonstrate functional deficits despite showing abnormalities on structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Cognitively intact adults with MS have shown enhanced activation patterns relative to healthy controls on working memory tasks. We aim to evaluate whether cognitively preserved pediatric-onset MS patients engage compensatory recruitment strategies to facilitate age-normative performance on a task of working memory. Methods: Twenty cognitively preserved patients (mean age=18.7±2.7 years; 15 female) and 20 age- and sex-matched controls (mean age=18.5±2.9 years; 15 female) underwent neuropsychological testing and 3.0 Tesla MRI, including structural and functional acquisitions. Patterns of activation during the Alphaspan task, a working memory paradigm with two levels of executive control demand, were examined via whole-brain and region of interest (ROI) analyses. Results: Across all participants, lower accuracy and greater activation of regions implicated in working memory were observed during the high demand condition. MS patients demonstrated 0.21 s longer response time than controls. ROI analyses revealed enhanced activation for pediatric-onset MS patients relative to controls in the right middle frontal, left paracingulate, right supramarginal, and left superior parietal gyri during the low executive demand condition, over and above differences in response time. MS patients also demonstrated heightened activation in the right supramarginal gyrus in the high executive demand condition. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that pediatric-onset MS patients may engage compensatory recruitment strategies during working memory processing. (JINS, 2019, 25, 432–442)
Funding Defined Benefit pension schemes: an integrated risk management approach
Authors: Cowling C. A. , Fisher H. J. , Powe K. J. , Sheth J. P. , Wright M. W.
Published: February 2019

The last 12 years have seen the evolution of a new funding regime under the supervision of the Pensions Regulator. Over this period, there has been significant turbulence in financial markets, including record low interest rates. This paper takes a critical look at the development of funding approaches and methodologies over this period. It analyses the Pensions Regulator guidance and how scheme specific actuarial methods have emerged since the move away from the Minimum Funding Requirement in 2001 and the introduction of the Scheme Specific Funding Requirements in 2005. It asks whether these new methodologies have been successful from the perspective of members, trustees, employers and shareholders. At a time when actuarial valuation methodologies have faced considerable criticism, this paper aims to propose a pension funding methodology which is fit for purpose and also reflects the latest guidance from the Pensions Regulator on integrated risk management.