bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Qualität im Kompetenzmanagement
Authors: Liebenow Doreen , Uedelhoven Sebastian , Stricker Max , Nachtwei Jens
Published: April 2020

Zusammenfassung. Kompetenzmodelle sind aus der Personalarbeit nicht mehr wegzudenken, denn sie haben einen weitreichenden Einfluss auf strategische Prozesse in einem Unternehmen: Personalauswahl und -entwicklung, Mitarbeiterevaluationen und Vergütungen können an Kompetenzmodellen ausgerichtet werden. Kompetenzmodellierungen und daraus resultierende Kompetenzmodelle sollten daher von hoher Qualität sein. Ein empirisch valides Kompetenzmodell zu entwickeln ist nicht leicht und Möglichkeiten zur Überprüfung der Qualität sind kaum gegeben. Die vorliegende explorative Studie soll zum einen die Diskussion zur Qualität von Kompetenzmodellen anregen und zum anderen einen Vorschlag für die Qualitätsmessung unterbreiten. Dazu wird ein auf der Literatur basierender und von wissenschaftlichen Experten validierter Kriterienkatalog zur Qualitätsbewertung der Kompetenzmodellierungen und -modelle von Organisationen aus Deutschland, Österreich und der Schweiz (DACH) geprüft: Mit Personalmanager_innen aus 20 verschiedenen Organisationen wurden Telefoninterviews geführt und die gewonnenen Daten entsprechend entlang des Kriterienkataloges ausgewertet und beurteilt. Die Resultate bilden die Vorarbeit für einen Benchmark für Kompetenzmodellierung und Kompetenzmodell (BeKom), der für die Personalmanager_innen zweierlei Nutzen hätte: Sie erhalten nicht nur ein wissenschaftlich fundiertes Feedback über die Qualität ihres Kompetenzmodells und dessen Modellierung, sondern auch eine Vergleichsmöglichkeit mit anderen Organisationen. Die Ergebnisse der Pilotierung zeigen eine deutliche Tendenz: Kompetenzmodellierungen und -modelle in DACH weisen Optimierungsbedarf auf – nur eine Organisation erhielt anhand der verwendeten Kriterien eine hohe Qualitätsbewertung. Die weiterführende Entwicklung des BeKom – als Instrument zur Beurteilung von Kompetenzmodellierung und -modell – kann daher einen wertvollen Beitrag zur Professionalisierung der Personalarbeit leisten.
Kommunikative Rahmenbedingungen beim Change Management in der Schule
Authors: Teerling Annika , Zitzmann Steffen , Igler Jennifer , Schlitter Theresa , Ohle-Peters Annika , McElvany Nele , Köller Olaf
Published: April 2020

Zusammenfassung. Unternehmen und Organisationen stehen unter ständigem Veränderungsdruck. Vor allem seit PISA 2000 können sich auch Schulen in Deutschland diesem nicht mehr entziehen. Der vorliegende Beitrag geht der Frage nach, inwieweit kommunikative Rahmenbedingungen im Veränderungsprozess als relevant für die wahrgenommene Entwicklung der Betroffenen und die Diffusion der Veränderung sowie Schüleroutcomes erscheinen. Mithilfe von Mehrebenenanalysen wird untersucht, inwieweit sich die individuelle Ebene der Betroffenen und die Organisationsebene dabei unterscheiden. Auf Basis einer Stichprobe von N = 66 Lehrkräften und Schulleitungen kann dabei gezeigt werden, dass auf individueller Ebene vor allem die Eigenschaften der Betroffenen sowie die Häufigkeit der Kooperation und auf Organisationsebene die Zusammensetzung der Projektgruppe als relevant für den Veränderungsprozess erscheinen. Zudem werden Zusammenhänge der Selbstberichte der Lehrkräfte mit Leistungen und motivationalen Orientierungen auf Seiten der Schülerinnen und Schüler ( N = 539) berichtet.
Aboriginal and Non-Aboriginal Emergency Department Presentations Involving Suicide-Related Thoughts and Behaviors
Authors: Leckning Bernard , Borschmann Rohan , Guthridge Steven , Bradley Pat , Silburn Sven , Robinson Gary
Published: April 2020

Abstract. Background: Rates of hospital admission for suicide-related thoughts and behaviors (SRTBs) are elevated in the Northern Territory (NT) of Australia, especially by Aboriginal people, but very little is known about emergency department (ED) presentations. Aim: We aimed to profile ED presentations in the NT involving SRTBs by Indigenous status and compare discharge arrangements. Method: Logistic regression analyses were performed on data from electronic patient records of consecutive ED presentations involving SRTBs. Results: During the study period, 167 presentations were observed. Aboriginal patients were more likely to present from remote areas and to report substance misuse and family conflict or violence compared with non-Aboriginal patients. In both groups, males were more likely than females to be admitted as were persons presenting with self-harm compared with those who had suicidal thoughts only. No differences in discharge arrangements were identified by Indigenous status. Limitations: The small scale of the study and use of administrative records points to the need for further research to improve the quality of the evidence. Conclusion: While presentations by high-risk groups are more likely to be admitted for further care, the assessment of psychosocial risks and needs in EDs is vital to informing decisions for aftercare that support recovery in the community for Aboriginal patients and patients discharged from EDs.
Putting the Blame on Others in Suicide Notes From Shanghai and Wuhan, China
Authors: Li Feng , Jia Haipeng , Cai Ziyi , Liu Sihai , Lu Xuesong , Zeng Xinyi , Yip Paul S. F.
Published: April 2020

Abstract. Background: Suicide note leavers sometimes blame others for their death. The blame could reveal extrinsic suicide risk factors and thus countermeasures may be ascertained. Aims: This study included suicide note leavers in Shanghai and Wuhan ( n = 555) to examine (a) who was inclined to put the blame (b) on whom and (c) for what reason(s). Method: Logistic regressions were used to compare the note leavers who blamed others with those who did not. Cramer's V tests were used to examine the correlations between the note leavers' demographics and the targets of the blame. Results: Note leavers who used poisoning and cutting were more likely to blame others compared with those who used jumping, drowning, and hanging. Non-native note leavers tended to more frequently blame social problems and their workplaces compared with the natives. The common reasons for the blame on nonfamily members, children, and lovers/spouses were being mistakenly blamed for something, being disobedient, and having conflicts/hatred, respectively. Limitations: Some blame could have been made under the influence of psychiatric disorder/substances, and thus potentially deviated from the facts. Conclusion: Emotional/marriage consultations and family-therapy services should be made available to females experiencing love/family crises. Mental health services in the workplace could help reduce suicide risks.
The Role of Personal Factors and Learning Environment in Suicidal Ideation Among Tunisian Medical Students
Authors: Fekih-Romdhane Feten , ElKhouni Chams , Sassi Hadhami , Cheour Majda
Published: April 2020

Abstract. Objective: Little is known about specific professional factors influencing medical students' suicidal ideation and behavior. We aimed to evaluate the prevalence and correlates of suicidal ideation in Tunisian medical students. Method: This was a cross-sectional study; 390 second-cycle medical students were enrolled at the Faculty of Medicine of Tunis. Participants responded to an anonymous questionnaire containing sociodemographic data, educational factors, the Suicidal Ideation Questionnaire (SIQ), and the Depression, Anxiety and Stress scales (DASS-21). Results: Eleven students (2.8%) had made one or more suicide attempts in their lifetime. For a threshold value of 41 based on the SIQ scale, 7.9% of students were considered to have a potential risk of suicide. The multiple hierarchical linear regression analysis identified as main factors independently associated with suicidal ideation: tobacco consumption, perceived sleep quality, depression symptoms, the personal history of suicide attempt, the satisfaction with student–supervisor relationship, and choosing to study medicine. Conclusion: Suicide prevention efforts should target high-risk students with prior personal or family history of suicidal behavior. Moreover, medical school authorities should put in place effective strategies to optimize the learning environment at their institutions.
LipidCreator workbench to probe the lipidomic landscape
Authors: Peng Bing , Kopczynski Dominik , Pratt Brian S. , Ejsing Christer S. , Burla Bo , Hermansson Martin , Benke Peter Imre , Tan Sock Hwee , Chan Mark Y. , Torta Federico , Schwudke Dominik , Meckelmann Sven W. , Coman Cristina , Schmitz Oliver J. , MacLean Brendan , Manke Mailin-Christin , Borst Oliver , Wenk Markus R. , Hoffmann Nils , Ahrends Robert
Published: April 2020

Mass spectrometry (MS)-based targeted lipidomics enables the robust quantification of selected lipids under various biological conditions but comprehensive software tools to support such analyses are lacking. Here we present LipidCreator, a software that fully supports targeted lipidomics assay development. LipidCreator offers a comprehensive framework to compute MS/MS fragment masses for over 60 lipid classes. LipidCreator provides all functionalities needed to define fragments, manage stable isotope labeling, optimize collision energy and generate in silico spectral libraries. We validate LipidCreator assays computationally and analytically and prove that it is capable to generate large targeted experiments to analyze blood and to dissect lipid-signaling pathways such as in human platelets.
A multidecadal assessment of climate indices over Europe
Authors: Domínguez-Castro Fernando , Reig Fergus , Vicente-Serrano Sergio M. , Aguilar Enric , Peña-Angulo Dhais , Noguera Iván , Revuelto Jesús , van der Schrier Gerard , El Kenawy Ahmed M.
Published: April 2020

Monitoring and management of several environmental and socioeconomic sectors require climate data that can be summarized using a set of standard and meaningful climate metrics. This study describes a newly developed gridded dataset for the whole of Europe, which employed a set of 125 climate indices spanning different periods based on data availability, but mainly 1950–2017 and 1979–2017. This dataset comprehensively summarizes climate variability in Europe for a wide range of climate variables and conditions, including air temperature, precipitation, biometeorology, aridity, continentality, drought, amongst others. Climate indices were computed at different temporal scales (i.e. monthly, seasonal and annual) and mapped at a grid interval of 0.25°. We intend to update these indices on an annual basis. This dataset is freely available to research and end-user communities.
weg2vec: Event embedding for temporal networks
Authors: Torricelli Maddalena , Karsai Márton , Gauvin Laetitia
Published: April 2020

Network embedding techniques are powerful to capture structural regularities in networks and to identify similarities between their local fabrics. However, conventional network embedding models are developed for static structures, commonly consider nodes only and they are seriously challenged when the network is varying in time. Temporal networks may provide an advantage in the description of real systems, but they code more complex information, which could be effectively represented only by a handful of methods so far. Here, we propose a new method of event embedding of temporal networks, calledweg2vec, which builds on temporal and structural similarities of events to learn a low dimensional representation of a temporal network. This projection successfully captures latent structures and similarities between events involving different nodes at different times and provides ways to predict the final outcome of spreading processes unfolding on the temporal structure.
The voltage-gated proton channel hHv1 is functionally expressed in human chorion-derived mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Mészáros Beáta , Papp Ferenc , Mocsár Gábor , Kókai Endre , Kovács Katalin , Tajti Gabor , Panyi Gyorgy
Published: April 2020

The voltage-gated proton channel Hv1 is widely expressed, among others, in immune and cancer cells, it provides an efficient cytosolic H+extrusion mechanism and regulates vital functions such as oxidative burst, migration and proliferation. Here we demonstrate the presence of human Hv1 (hHv1) in the placenta/chorion-derived mesenchymal stem cells (cMSCs) using RT-PCR. The voltage- and pH-dependent gating of the current is similar to that of hHv1 expressed in cell lines and that the current is blocked by 5-chloro-2-guanidinobenzimidazole (ClGBI) and activated by arachidonic acid (AA). Inhibition of hHv1 by ClGBI significantly decreases mineral matrix production of cMSCs induced by conditions mimicking physiological or pathological (inorganic phosphate, Pi) induction of osteogenesis. Wound healing assay and single cell motility analysis show that ClGBI significantly inhibits the migration of cMSCs. Thus, seminal functions of cMSCs are modulated by hHv1 which makes this channel as an attractive target for controlling advantages/disadvantages of MSCs therapy.
Pore structure and its impact on susceptibility to coal spontaneous combustion based on multiscale and multifractal analysis
Authors: Yu Zhang , Xueqing Zhang , Wen Yang , Haihui Xin , Sherong Hu , Yu Song
Published: April 2020

The relationship between the properties of coal and its tendency to spontaneous combustion is critical for the environment, safety concerns, and economy. In this study, to eliminate the complex influence of moisture; the samples having similar moisture content were selected from Shanxi and Henan provinces. The chemical properties, physical properties, and tendency of coal samples to spontaneous combustion were characterized based on the conventional analysis, mercury intrusion porosimetry, fractal dimensions, and crossing point temperature (CPT). The results confirmed that the coal rank, volatile matter, oxygen contents, and fixed carbon content had a good linear relationship with the CPT. The relationship between the ash content and CPT presented a “U-shaped” non-linear correlation. For the pore size distribution, the total pore volume also possessed a linear positive correlation with the CPT. The fractal curves could be distinctly divided into two stages: low-pressure (<20 MPa) and high-pressure (>20 MPa), from which the fractal dimensions were obtained using the Sponge and Sierpinski models. The relationship between the fractal dimensions (Ds1, Ds2, and Dg1) and CPT could be divided into two distinct stages: a decrease in the CPT with increasing fractal dimensions (2.6–2.85), and then an in increase in the CPT. CPT decreased with increasing parameters of D1, D2, H, and D10, and it gradually increased with increasing D-10-D10, D-10-D0, and D0-D10. The above characteristics are important to comprehensively and systematically reveal the mechanism of spontaneous combustion.
Common genetic variation in obesity, lipid transfer genes and risk of Metabolic Syndrome: Results from IDEFICS/I.Family study and meta-analysis
Authors: Nagrani Rajini , Foraita Ronja , Gianfagna Francesco , Iacoviello Licia , Marild Staffan , Michels Nathalie , Molnár Dénes , Moreno Luis , Russo Paola , Veidebaum Toomas , Ahrens Wolfgang , Marron Manuela
Published: April 2020

As the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) in children and young adults is increasing, a better understanding of genetics that underlie MetS will provide critical insights into the origin of the disease. We examined associations of common genetic variants and repeated MetS score from early childhood to adolescence in a pan-European, prospective IDEFICS/I.Family cohort study with baseline survey and follow-up examinations after two and six years. We tested associations in 3067 children using a linear mixed model and confirmed the results with meta-analysis of identified SNPs. With a stringent Bonferroni adjustment for multiple comparisons we obtained significant associations(p < 1.4 × 10−4) for 5 SNPs, which were in high LD (r2 > 0.85) in the 16q12.2 non-coding intronic chromosomal region of FTO gene with strongest association observed for rs8050136 (effect size(β) = 0.31, pWald = 1.52 × 10−5). We also observed a strong association of rs708272 in CETP with increased HDL (p = 5.63 × 10−40) and decreased TRG (p = 9.60 × 10−5) levels. These findings along with meta-analysis advance etiologic understanding of childhood MetS, highlighting that genetic predisposition to MetS is largely driven by genes of obesity and lipid metabolism. Inclusion of the associated genetic variants in polygenic scores for MetS may prove to be fundamental for identifying children and subsequently adults of the high-risk group to allow earlier targeted interventions.
Immunoinflammatory response and bioactive potential of GuttaFlow bioseal and MTA Fillapex in the rat subcutaneous tissue
Authors: Delfino Mateus Machado , Guerreiro-Tanomaru Juliane Maria , Tanomaru-Filho Mário , Sasso-Cerri Estela , Cerri Paulo Sérgio
Published: April 2020

To evaluate the effect of GuttaFlow bioseal (GFB) and MTA Fillapex (MTAF) in comparison with Endofill (EF) in the subcutaneous tissue. Polyethylene tubes with GFB, MTAF, EF or empty tubes (control group; CG) were implanted into subcutaneous of rats. After 7, 15, 30 and 60 days, the capsule thickness, inflammatory reaction, interleukin-6 (IL-6), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), caspase-3, TUNEL-positive cells, von Kossa and ultrastructural features were evaluated. The data were statistically analyzed (p ≤ 0.05). At all periods, the number of IL-6- and VEGF-immunolabelled cells, and capsule thickness were lower in GFB than MTAF, which was lower than EF (p < 0.0001). At 60 days, the number of inflammatory cells was similar in GFB and MTAF (p = 0.58). Significant differences in the number of TUNEL- and caspase-3-positive cells were not observed among GFB, MTAF and CG whereas the highest values were found in EF specimens. The EF specimens exhibited several cells with condensed chromatin, typical of apoptosis. von Kossa-positive and birefringent structures were only observed in GFB and MTAF, suggesting the presence of calcite crystals. Taken together, these results show that cellular and structural damage induced by GFB and MTAF sealers were recovery over time. Moreover, these sealers express bioactive potential in subcutaneous tissue.
Familiarity with humans affect dogs’ tendencies to follow human majority groups
Authors: Nagasawa Miho , Mogi Kazutaka , Ohtsuki Hisashi , Kikusui Takefumi
Published: April 2020

Recently, copying others’ behaviour has attracted attention among researchers. It aids individuals in reducing uncertainty about the knowledge of the environment and helps them in acquiring an adaptive behaviour at a lower cost than by learning it by themselves. Among the copying strategies, conformity, which is the copying of behavioural decisions presented by the majority, has been well studied and reported in many animals, including humans. The previous study showed that dogs did not conform to their multiple conspecific individuals; however, dogs have evolved to increase their adaptability while living with humans, and it is plausible that dogs have selected appropriate behaviour according to the behaviour of humans. Therefore, we investigated which factors influenced the choice of dogs in a situation where they have to choose one of two numerically unbalanced human groups. The results showed that the dogs followed the human majority group under certain conditions, depending on the familiarity with the human demonstrators. These results are important in considering the significance of groups for dogs and the factors of group formation, and will also provide a clue as to how dogs have penetrated into human society.
Methamphetamine Use Associated with Non-adherence to Antiretroviral Treatment in Men Who Have Sex with Men
Authors: Lai Hsin-Hao , Kuo Yen-Chun , Kuo Chian-Jue , Lai Yun-Ju , Chen Marcelo , Chen Yi-Tui , Chen Chu-Chieh , Yen Muh-Yong , Hu Bor-Shen , Wang Teng-Ho , Wang Chien Chun , Kuo Li-Lan , Yen Tsen-Fang , Chuang Pei-Hung , Yen Yung-Feng
Published: April 2020

Methamphetamine is a prevalent recreational drug among men who have sex with men (MSM) living with HIV and could cause the cognitive impairment and memory loss. However, studies on the association between methamphetamine use and adherence to antiretroviral treatment (ART) are limited and had inconsistent findings. This study aimed to determine the impact of methamphetamine use on adherence to ART among MSM living with HIV. From December 2018 to October 2019, MSM living with HIV were recruited (N = 351) and non-adherence to ART was defined as a Medication Adherence Report Scale score of <23. Overall, 16.0% of the participants reported methamphetamine use in the prior three months and 13.4% of the participants had non-adherence to ART. The proportion of non-adherence to ART among HIV-positive MSM were 28.6% and 10.5% with and without methamphetamine use, respectively. After controlling for demographics, illicit drug use, and co-morbidities, methamphetamine use during the prior three months was associated with a higher risk of non-adherence to ART (adjusted odds ratio = 3.08; 95% confidence intervals: 1.24–7.69). Compared with HIV-positive MSM with non-adherence to ART, HIV-positive MSM with good adherence to ART had a higher CD4 counts and were more likely to achieve an undetectable viral load. Since poor adherence to ART is associated with an increased HIV viral load and the risk of HIV transmission to others, our study suggests that it is imperative to screen HIV-positive patients for methamphetamine use and to provide effective therapy to reduce methamphetamine use and the associated non-adherence to ART.
Pressure-Assisted Fabrication of Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Oyelade O. V. , Oyewole O. K. , Oyewole D. O. , Adeniji S. A. , Ichwani R. , Sanni D. M. , Soboyejo W. O.
Published: April 2020

This paper presents the results of a combined experimental and analytical/computational study of the effects of pressure on photoconversion efficiencies of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). First, an analytical model is used to predict the effects of pressure on interfacial contact in the multilayered structures of PSCs. The PSCs are then fabricated before applying a range of pressures to the devices to improve their interfacial surface contacts. The results show that the photoconversion efficiencies of PSCs increase by ~40%, for applied pressures between 0 and ~7 MPa. However, the photoconversion efficiencies decrease with increasing pressure beyond ~7 MPa. The implications of the results are discussed for the fabrication of efficient PSCs.
Nucleic acid recognition and antiviral activity of 1,4-substituted terphenyl compounds mimicking all faces of the HIV-1 Rev protein positively-charged α-helix
Authors: Medina-Trillo Cristina , Sedgwick Daniel M. , Herrera Lidia , Beltrán Manuela , Moreno Ángela , Barrio Pablo , Bedoya Luis. M. , Alcamí José , Fustero Santos , Gallego José
Published: April 2020

Small synthetic molecules mimicking the three-dimensional structure of α-helices may find applications as inhibitors of therapeutically relevant protein-protein and protein-nucleic acid interactions. However, the design and use of multi-facial helix mimetics remains in its infancy. Here we describe the synthesis and application of novel bilaterally substitutedp-terphenyl compounds containing positively-charged aminoalkyl groups in relative 1,4 positions across the aromatic scaffold. These compounds were specifically designed to mimic all faces of the arginine-rich α-helix of the HIV-1 protein Rev, which forms deeply embedded RNA complexes and plays key roles in the virus replication cycle. Two of these molecules recognized the Rev site in the viral RNA and inhibited the formation of the RRE-Rev ribonucleoprotein complex, a currently unexploited target in HIV chemotherapy. Cellular assays revealed that the most active compounds blocked HIV-1 replication with little toxicity, and likely exerted this effect through a multi-target mechanism involving inhibition of viral LTR promoter-dependent transcription and Rev function. Further development of this scaffold may open new avenues for targeting nucleic acids and may complement current HIV therapies, none of which involve inhibitors interfering with the gene regulation processes of the virus.
In vitro and in vivo efficacy of combinations of colistin and different endolysins against clinical strains of multi-drug resistant pathogens
Authors: Blasco Lucia , Ambroa Anton , Trastoy Rocio , Bleriot Ines , Moscoso Miriam , Fernández-Garcia Laura , Perez-Nadales Elena , Fernández-Cuenca Felipe , Torre-Cisneros Julian , Oteo-Iglesias Jesus , Oliver Antonio , Canton Rafael , Kidd Tim , Navarro Ferran , Miró Elisenda , Pascual Alvaro , Bou German , Martínez-Martínez Luis , Tomas Maria
Published: April 2020

The emergence of multidrug resistant (MDR) pathogenic bacteria is jeopardizing the value of antimicrobials, which had previously changed the course of medical science. In this study, we identified endolysins ElyA1 and ElyA2 (GH108-PG3 family), present in the genome of bacteriophages Ab1051Φ and Ab1052Φ, respectively. The muralytic activity of these endolysins against MDR clinical isolates (Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumoniae) was tested using the turbidity reduction assay. Minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of endolysin, colistin and a combination of endolysin and colistin were determined, and the antimicrobial activity of each treatment was confirmed by time kill curves. Endolysin ElyA1 displayed activity against all 25 strains of A. baumannii and P. aeruginosa tested and against 13 out of 17 strains of K. pneumoniae. Endolysin ElyA2 did not display any such activity. The combined antimicrobial activity of colistin and ElyA1 yielded a reduction in the colistin MIC for all strains studied, except K. pneumoniae. These results were confirmed in vivo in G. mellonella survival assays and in murine skin and lung infection models. In conclusion, combining colistin (1/4 MIC) with the new endolysin ElyA1 (350 µg) enhanced the bactericidal activity of colistin in both in vitro and in vivo studies. This will potentially enable reduction of the dose of colistin used in clinical practice.
Plastic frontal pole cortex structure related to individual persistence for goal achievement
Authors: Hosoda Chihiro , Tsujimoto Satoshi , Tatekawa Masaru , Honda Manabu , Osu Rieko , Hanakawa Takashi
Published: April 2020

Persistent goal-directed behaviours result in achievements in many fields. However, the underlying neural mechanisms of persistence and the methods that enhance the neuroplasticity underlying persistence, remain unclear. We here demonstrate that the structural properties of the frontal pole cortex (FPC) before tasks contain information that can classify Achievers and Non-achievers (goal-directed persistence) participating in three tasks that differ in time scale (hours to months) and task domains (cognitive, language, and motor learning). We also found that most Achievers exhibit experience-dependent neuroplastic changes in the FPC after completing language and motor learning tasks. Moreover, we confirmed that a coaching strategy that used subgoals modified goal-directed persistence and increased the likelihood of becoming an Achiever. Notably, we discovered that neuroplastic changes in the FPC were facilitated by the subgoal strategy, suggesting that goal-striving, using effective coaching, optimizes the FPC for goal persistence.
Graphene stimulates the nucleation and growth rate of NaCl crystals from hypersaline solution via membrane crystallization
Authors: Perrotta Maria Luisa , Macedonio Francesca , Tocci Elena , Giorno Lidietta , Drioli Enrico , Gugliuzza Annarosa
Published: April 2020

Advanced graphene engineered membranes designed for sustainable crystallization of high-quality crystals from hypersaline water.
Komagataeibacter hanseniiCGMCC 3917 alleviates alcohol-induced liver injury by regulating fatty acid metabolism and intestinal microbiota diversity in mice
Authors: Lin Dehui , Jiang Xinxin , Zhao Yan , Zhai Xichuan , Yang Xingbin
Published: April 2020

The potential effects ofKomagataeibacter hanseniiCGMCC 3917 cells on alcohol-induced liver injury and their probable mechanisms were investigated.
Influences of dietary starch structure on intestinal morphology, barrier functions, and epithelium apoptosis in weaned pigs
Authors: Gao Xiaoqian , Yu Bing , Yu Jie , Mao Xiangbing , Huang Zhiqing , Luo Yuheng , Luo Junqiu , Zheng Ping , He Jun , Chen Daiwen
Published: April 2020

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effects of dietary starch structure on intestinal health of weaned pigs by determining the intestinal morphology, barrier functions, epithelium apoptosis and digestive enzymes.
Bistable behavior of the nitrogen impurity in SiC nanoclusters
Authors: Petrenko T. L. , Bryksa V. P. , Petrenko T. T.
Published: April 2020

Bistable behavior and coexistence of effective mass, small bound polaron and DX-like states of the nitrogen impurity in SiC nanoclusters.
Recovery of ammonium and phosphate using battery deionization in a background electrolyte
Authors: Son Moon , Aronson Benjamin L. , Yang Wulin , Gorski Christopher A. , Logan Bruce E.
Published: April 2020

The electrochemical cell containing ammonium selective battery electrodes can be effective for recovering ammonium, but not phosphate, from solutions due to its high mass capacity for ammonium ions, with a low energy demand.
Analysis of β-lactoglobulin–epigallocatechin gallate interactions: the antioxidant capacity and effects of polyphenols under different heating conditions in polyphenolic–protein interactions
Authors: Qie Xuejiao , Chen Yao , Quan Wei , Wang Zhaojun , Zeng Maomao , Qin Fang , Chen Jie , He Zhiyong
Published: April 2020

A β-Lg-EGCG covalent conjugate is formed by linking the amino group of a lysine residue and EGCG; the antioxidant capacity of EGCG induced by β-Lg–EGCG covalent conjugates causes a significant decrease.
Development of polycationic micelles as an efficient delivery system of antibiotics for overcoming the biological barriers to reverse multidrug resistance inEscherichia coli
Authors: Guo Rong , Li Keke , Qin Jing , Niu Shengli , Hong Wei
Published: April 2020

Schematic illustration of polycationic micelles targeting drug-resistantE. coli(A), biofilms (B), infected macrophages (C), and bacterial infection tissues (D).
Ion transport across solid-state ion channels perturbed by directed strain
Authors: Smolyanitsky A. , Fang A. , Kazakov A. F. , Paulechka E.
Published: April 2020

Using computer simulations, we demonstrate ion permeation measurements across strained membranes that may potentially be used to obtain directional profiles of ion-pore energetics as contributed by the pore edge atoms.
A continuous stimuli-responsive system for NIR-II fluorescence/photoacoustic imaging guided photothermal/gas synergistic therapy
Authors: Zheng Ziliang , Chen Qi , Dai Rong , Jia Zhuo , Yang Chenhua , Peng Xiaoyang , Zhang Ruiping
Published: April 2020

A step-by-step stimuli-response nanosystem that could be specifically activated by a “multistage rocket-like” process to improve its NIR-II/PA signals for imaging-guided photothermal/gas synergistic therapy.
Gold(iii)-catalyzed azide-yne cyclization/O–H insertion cascade reaction for the expeditious construction of 3-alkoxy-4-quinolinone frameworks
Authors: Huang Jingjing , Su Han , Bao Ming , Qiu Lihua , Zhang Yuanqing , Xu Xinfang
Published: April 2020

A gold-catalyzed cascade reaction has been developed, and it provides an expeditious access to 3-alkoxy-4-quinolines and applications in alkaloid synthesis.
Phosphine-substituted Fe–Te clusters related to the active site of [FeFe]-H2ases
Authors: Lü Shuang , Huang Hong-Li , Zhang Ru-fen , Ma Chun-lin , Li Qian-Li , He Jiao , Yang Jun , Li Ting , Li Yu-Long
Published: April 2020

Mono-, di-, and tetranuclear phosphine-substituted Fe/Te clusters1–6were described.
Chiral strong Brønsted acid-catalyzed enantioselective addition reaction of simple olefins with ethyl glyoxylate
Authors: Kikuchi Jun , Aizawa Yuki , Terada Masahiro
Published: April 2020

An enantioselective intermolecular addition reaction of 1,1,2-trisubstituted and 1,2- disubstituted simple olefins with ethyl glyoxylate was developed using F10BINOL-derived N-sulfonyl phosphoramide as a chiral strong Brønsted acid catalyst.
Highly efficient non-doped blue fluorescent OLEDs with low efficiency roll-off based on hybridized local and charge transfer excited state emitters
Authors: Lv Xianhao , Sun Mizhen , Xu Lei , Wang Runzhe , Zhou Huayi , Pan Yuyu , Zhang Shitong , Sun Qikun , Xue Shanfeng , Yang Wenjun
Published: April 2020

A new pure fluorescent blue HLCT-emitter was designed and synthesized. Highly efficient non-doped blue OLEDs with low efficiency roll-off were achieved.
Binary mixtures of active and passive particles on a sphere
Authors: Ai Bao-quan , Zhou Bu-yun , Zhang Xiao-miao
Published: April 2020

According to the competition between rotational diffusion and polar alignment, we find three distinct phases: a mixed phase and two different demixed phases.
Evaporation-induced alignment of nanorods in a thin film
Authors: Jung Narina , Weon Byung Mook , Doi Masao
Published: April 2020

We have numerically investigated the evaporation-induced phase transition of nanorods to control the final nematic orientation on a substrate.
Mechanical vs. chemical stability of sulphide-based solid-state batteries. Which one is the biggest challenge to tackle? Overview of solid-state batteries and hybrid solid state batteries
Authors: Mangani Léa Rose , Villevieille Claire
Published: April 2020

Mechanical stability and interfacial stability are the main issues hindering the development of sulphide-based solid state batteries. We review here the recent advances in this field including the alternative of hybrid solid electrolytes.
Rational design of high nitrogen-doped and core–shell/mesoporous carbon nanospheres with high rate capability and cycling longevity for pseudocapacitive sodium storage
Authors: Mao Jiayi , Niu Dechao , Jiang Nan , Jiang Guangyu , Chen Meiwan , Li Yongsheng , Shi Jianlin
Published: April 2020

A facile soft-template strategy is developed to construct high-nitrogen-doped and core–shell/mesoporous carbon nanospheres for high-rate and long-term stable sodium-ion batteries.
Talker Processing in Mandarin-Speaking Congenital Amusics
Authors: Shao Jing , Wang Lan , Zhang Caicai
Published: April 2020

Purpose

The ability to recognize individuals from their vocalizations is an important trait of human beings. In the current study, we aimed to examine how congenital amusia, an inborn pitch-processing disorder, affects discrimination and identification of talkers' voices.

Method

Twenty Mandarin-speaking amusics and 20 controls were tested on talker discrimination and identification in four types of contexts that varied in the degree of language familiarity: Mandarin real words, Mandarin pseudowords, Arabic words, and reversed Mandarin speech.

Results

The language familiarity effect was more evident in the talker identification task than the discrimination task for both participant groups, and talker identification accuracy decreased as native phonological representations were removed from the stimuli. Importantly, amusics demonstrated degraded performance in both native speech conditions that contained phonological/linguistic information to facilitate talker identification and nonnative conditions where talker voice processing primarily relied on phonetics cues, including pitch. Moreover, the performance in talker processing can be predicted by the participants' musical ability and phonological memory capacity.

Conclusions

The results provided a first set of behavioral evidence that individuals with amusia are impaired in the ability of human voice identification. Meanwhile, it is found that amusia is not only a pitch disorder but is likely to affect the phonological processing of speech, in terms of using phonological information in native speech to analyze a talker's identity. The above findings expanded the understanding of the nature and scope of congenital amusia.

Supplemental Material

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.12170379
Detection, quantification and classification of ripened tomatoes: a comparative analysis of image processing and machine learning
Authors: Alam Siddiquee Kazy Noor e , Islam Md. Shabiul , Dowla Mohammad Yasin Ud , Rezaul Karim Mohammed , Grout Vic
Published: April 2020

In this study, specifically for the detection of ripe/unripe tomatoes with/without defects in the crop field, two distinct methods are described and compared from captured images by a camera mounted on a mobile robot. One is a machine learning approach, known as ‘Cascaded Object Detector’ (COD) and the other is a composition of traditional customised methods, individually known as ‘Colour Transformation’: ‘Colour Segmentation’ and ‘Circular Hough Transformation’. The (Viola‐Jones) COD generates ‘histogram of oriented gradient’ (HOG) features to detect tomatoes. For ripeness checking, the RGB mean is calculated with a set of rules. However, for traditional methods, colour thresholding is applied to detect tomatoes either from natural or solid background and RGB colour is adjusted to identify ripened tomatoes. This algorithm is shown to be optimally feasible for any micro‐controller based miniature electronic devices in terms of its run time complexity of O(n3) for a traditional method in best and average cases. Comparisons show that the accuracy of the machine learning method is 95%, better than that of the Colour Segmentation Method using MATLAB.
Short‐term prediction of traffic flow under incident conditions using graph convolutional recurrent neural network and traffic simulation
Authors: Fukuda Shota , Uchida Hideaki , Fujii Hideki , Yamada Tomonori
Published: April 2020

The objective of the study is to predict traffic flow under unusual conditions by using a deep learning model. Conventionally, machine‐learning‐based traffic prediction is frequently carried out. Model learning requires large amounts of training data; however, collecting sufficient samples is a challenge in the event of traffic incidents. To address this challenge, large amounts of traffic data were generated by performing traffic simulations under various traffic incidents. These data were used as training data, and a deep learning model with graph convolution and input of traffic incident information features was proposed. Subsequently, the prediction accuracy was compared with other models such as long short‐term memory, which is typically used in traffic prediction. The results demonstrated the superiority of the proposed model in representing phenomena with strong spatio‐temporal dependencies, such as traffic flow, and its effectiveness in traffic prediction.
Cryptographic keys exchange model for smart city applications
Authors: Saračević Muzafer , Adamović Saša , Maček Nemanja , Elhoseny Mohamed , Sarhan Shahenda
Published: April 2020

This study presents a secret key sharing protocol that establishes cryptographically secured communication between two entities. A new symmetric key exchange scenario for smart city applications is presented in this research. The protocol is based on the specific properties of the Fuss‐Catalan numbers and the Lattice Path combinatorics. The proposed scenario consists of three phases: generating a Fuss‐Catalan object based on the grid dimension, defining the movement in the Lattice Path Grid and defining the key equalisation rules. In the experimental part, the authors present the security analysis of the protocol as well as its test. Also, they examine the equivalence of the proposed with Maurer's satellite scenario and suggest a new scenario that implements an information‐theoretical protocol for the public key distribution. Additionally, a comparison with related studies and methods is provided, as well as a comparison with satellite scenario, which proves the advantages of solution presented by the authors. Finally, they propose further research directions regarding key management in smart city applications.
Crack damage identification and localisation on metro train bogie frame in IoT using guided waves
Authors: Zhang Ye , Hao Qiang , Cai Guoqiang , Lv Jiaojiao , Yang Chen
Published: April 2020

The Internet of Things (IoT) is one of the key components of metro train safety as an emerging development approach due to its great potential to advance environmental sustainability. A bogie is a key component for carrying a passenger's vehicle body. Its damage and defects can destroy fluent operations and better service for train operation. The critical problem of traditional non‐destructive examination for bogie is the high cost of labour and environment. Because they are in effect only after the whole vehicle has to be split into many sub‐components and paint removed. This study provides an IoT approach and practice for bogie crack identification of bogie. The presented method can achieve simple and efficient detection of damage with cheap PZT sensor network. Its advantages is that non‐split work and non‐removal paint pollution. Compared with traditional detection methods, this method is more sensitive to a small area of internal damage and can identify the level of damage and location of the bogie plate frame even with the dirty and non‐smooth surface.
A He I upper atmosphere around the warm Neptune GJ 3470 b
Authors: Palle E. , Nortmann L. , Casasayas-Barris N. , Lampón M. , López-Puertas M. , Caballero J. A. , Sanz-Forcada J. , Lara L. M. , Nagel E. , Yan F. , Alonso-Floriano F. J. , Amado P. J. , Chen G. , Cifuentes C. , Cortés-Contreras M. , Czesla S. , Molaverdikhani K. , Montes D. , Passegger V. M. , Quirrenbach A. , Reiners A. , Ribas I. , Sánchez-López A. , Schweitzer A. , Stangret M. , Zapatero Osorio M. R. , Zechmeister M.
Published: April 2020

High resolution transit spectroscopy has proven to be a reliable technique for the characterization of the chemical composition of exoplanet atmospheres. Taking advantage of the broad spectral coverage of the CARMENES spectrograph, we initiated a survey aimed at characterizing a broad range of planetary systems. Here, we report our observations of three transits of GJ 3470 b with CARMENES in search of He (23S) absorption. On one of the nights, the He I region was heavily contaminated by OH− telluric emission and, thus, it was not useful for our purposes. The remaining two nights had a very different signal-to-noise ratio (S/N) due to weather. They both indicate the presence of He (23S) absorption in the transmission spectrum of GJ 3470 b, although a statistically valid detection can only be claimed for the night with higher S/N. For that night, we retrieved a 1.5 ± 0.3% absorption depth, translating into a Rp(λ)∕Rp = 1.15 ± 0.14 at this wavelength. Spectro-photometric light curves for this same night also indicate the presence of extra absorption during the planetary transit with a consistent absorption depth. The He (23S) absorption is modeled in detail using a radiative transfer code, and the results of our modeling efforts are compared to the observations. We find that the mass-loss rate, Ṁ, is confined to a range of 3 × 1010 g s−1 for T = 6000 K to 10 × 1010 g s−1 for T = 9000 K. We discuss the physical mechanisms and implications of the He I detection in GJ 3470 b and put it in context as compared to similar detections and non-detections in other Neptune-size planets. We also present improved stellar and planetary parameter determinations based on our visible and near-infrared observations.
Multiphysics analysis of a hybrid suspension system for middle-low-speed maglev trains
Authors: Liu Guoqing , Wu Jingchi , Xiao Song , Luo Yuanpei , Zhang Can , Rao Yang , Zhang Kunlun , Sykulski Jan K.
Published: April 2020

The suspension force − a critical factor in the operation of middle-low-speed maglev trains − is provided by electromagnets. However, the eddy current effect produced by the relative motion between electromagnets and the steel track causes a reduction of the suspension force, especially under high speed. A novel type of permanent-electro-magnetic suspension system is proposed to improve performance by considering the variation of material characteristics with temperature. A 3D dynamic finite element model of this hybrid system − accounting for the influence of temperature − has been created to study the variation of magnetic flux distribution, suspension force and guiding force under different operational speeds of the train, in comparison with the electromagnetic version. Verified by simulations, the hybrid system has superior performance offering a powerful suspension force and a reliable guidance force even at high speeds of the train.
Scanning geophysical hazards
Authors: Baker James
Published: April 2020

Granular physics, the study of how collections of macroscopic particles behave en masse, helps us to model geophysical hazards like snow avalanches and landslides. Before placing trust in any predictions, we need a complete picture of how opaque grains flow. X-ray technologies provide an unobtrusive means to see beyond the surface. Whereas classical tomography does not work for moving samples, new dynamic X-ray approaches can handle genuinely flowing regimes, offering fresh insight.
Deep Mediterranean turbulent convection
Authors: van Haren Hans
Published: April 2020

Life in the deep sea requires turbulent mixing and advective transporting water flows for the supply of nutrients. However, because of the harsh environmental constraints in the deep sea, detailed quantitative measurements are scarce. Recent high-resolution measurements demonstrate that the deep Mediterranean Sea waters are far from stagnant, even though temperature variations over a day and 100 m in depth are of the order of 0.0001°C. An innovative 3D-mooring structure was used supporting 550 highly sensitive temperature sensors.
À l’écoute de la Musique, tout est dans la posture
Authors: Bertoux Annie , Bertoux Jacques
Published: April 2020

Dans cet entretien à deux voix, Annie et Jacques Bertoux, musiciens, partent du silence pour arriver au silence… Mais entre les deux, que de vibrations !

Ils ont vécu la Musique ensemble et chacun de leur côté, sans faire intrusion dans l’espace intime de l’autre, mais en partage. Cependant ils se rejoignent sur bien des points : entendre et écouter, les rythmes de l’enfant, la posture d’émission et d’audition, le respect de la composition, de l’interprétation et de l’auditoire, l’écoute de l’autre, les bienfaits de la musique, de sa perception et surtout de sa pratique.

Cette émotion partagée à travers les sons, les temps, les mots et engendrée par cet échange mutuel, ils ont désiré que chacun en soit le bénéficiaire, un don, dans tous les sens du terme.
Gastrointestinale Wirkungen von Kümmelöl, Carvi aetheroleum
Authors: Wegener Tankred
Published: April 2020

Das ätherische Kümmelöl aus Carum carvi L., Carvi aetheroleum, bestehend überwiegend aus den Terpenen (S)-(+)-Carvon und (R)-(+)-Limonen, wird bei Verdauungsbeschwerden, einhergehend mit Blähungen und Flatulenz, oder sogar bei flatulenzbedingten Koliken angewandt. Überwiegend aktuelle experimentelle Daten geben Hinweise oder bekräftigen die bereits früher postulierten Wirkungen. Zu nennen sind vor allem karminative (entblähende) Wirkungen im Gastrointestinum durch spasmolytische bzw. entkrampfende Eigenschaften, eine mögliche Hemmung der intestinalen Gärungsprozesse durch antimikrobielle (auf pathogene Keime beschränkt) Wirkungen, eine Volumenreduktion durch Hemmung der Schaumbildung von Magen- und Darmsaft und damit eine mögliche Reduktion blähungsbedingter Schmerzen sowie direkte antinozizeptive Eigenschaften. Ergebnisse aus klinischen Untersuchungen und Studien können die Wirkungen z. T. für das Kümmelöl alleine, besser für eine langjährig bewährte Kombination zusammen mit Pfefferminzöl, z. B. in der Anwendung bei typischen Symptomen funktioneller Verdauungsstörungen bestätigen.