bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feedback from experimental isotopic compositions of used nuclear fuels on neutron cross sections and cumulative fission yields of the JEFF-3.1.1 library by using integral data assimilation
Authors: Rizzo Axel , Vaglio-Gaudard Claire , Noguere Gilles , Eschbach Romain , Grassi Gabriele , Martin Julie-Fiona
Published: December 2019

Comparisons of calculated and experimental isotopic compositions of used nuclear fuels can provide valuable information on the quality of nuclear data involved in neutronic calculations. The experimental database used in the present study − containing more than a thousand isotopic ratio measurements for UOX and MOX fuels with burnup ranging from 10 GWd/t up to 85 GWd/t − allowed to investigate 45 isotopic ratios covering a large number of actinides (U, Np, Pu, Am and Cm) and fission products (Nd, Cs, Sm, Eu, Gd, Ru, Ce, Tc, Mo, Ag and Rh). The Integral Data Assimilation procedure implemented in the CONRAD code was used to provide nuclear data trends with realistic uncertainties for Pressurized Water Reactors (PWRs) applications. Results confirm the quality of the 235U, 239Pu and 241Pu neutron capture cross sections available in the JEFF-3.1.1 library; slight increases of +1.2 ± 2.4%, +0.5 ± 2.2% and +1.2 ± 4.2% are respectively suggested, these all being within the limits of the quoted uncertainties. Additional trends on the capture cross sections were also obtained for other actinides (236U, 238Pu, 240Pu, 242Pu, 241Am, 243Am, 245Cm) and fission products (103Rh, 153Eu, 154Eu) as well as for the 238U(n,2n) and 237Np(n,2n) reactions. Meaningful trends for the cumulative fission yields of 144Ce, 133Cs, 137Cs and 106Ru for the 235U(nth,f) and 239Pu(nth,f) reactions are also reported.
The role of radiological protection experts in stakeholder involvement in the recovery phase of post-nuclear accident situations: Some lessons from the Fukushima-Daïchi NPP accident
Authors: Schneider Thierry , Maître Mélanie , Lochard Jacques , Charron Sylvie , Lecomte Jean-François , Ando Ryoko , Kanai Yumiko , Kurihara Momo , Kuroda Yujiro , Miyazaki Makoto , Naito Wataru , Orita Makiko , Takamura Noboru , Tanigawa Koichi , Tsubokura Masaharu , Yasutaka Tetsuo
Published: December 2019

Feedback experiences from Fukushima and Chernobyl situations have clearly shown the importance of involving local stakeholders living in contaminated territories for the rehabilitation of their daily life. In this context, this paper aims to better address the role of radiological protection experts in the recovery phase of post-nuclear accident situation, in mainly relying on the analysis of local initiatives implemented in the Fukushima Prefecture following March 2011. In the first part, this paper highlights the various challenges faced by the population living in contaminated territories, i.e., rehabilitation of the living conditions, ensuring a long-term radiological monitoring, developing public health programs. In a second part, this paper discusses to which extent radiological protection experts can help local population to address these challenges, particularly through the implementation of co-expertise processes and the associated ethical issues and values they should embody. The last part of this paper particularly focuses on two current challenges at stake in the Fukushima Prefecture: the dissemination of the co-expertise process to all affected communities, as well as the sustainability of these approaches over time.
Clinical Translational Studies of Kisspeptin and Neurokinin B
Authors: Hunjan Tia , Abbara Ali
Published: December 2019

Kisspeptin and neurokinin B (NKB) are hypothalamic neuropeptides that are vital for reproductive health. An absence of either kisspeptin or NKB signaling results in hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism and a failure to proceed through puberty. In recent years, several studies have demonstrated potential avenues for the clinical utility of medications that act through these pathways in the assessment and treatment of reproductive disorders. Kisspeptin acts to stimulate hypothalamic gonadotrophic-releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion from the hypothalamus. Kisspeptin induces gonadotrophin secretion in both healthy men and women, and in women with reproductive disorders such as hypothalamic amenorrhea (HA). Kisspeptin-based treatments hold promise for use during in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment; a bolus of kisspeptin-54 induces an LH surge of 12 to 14 hours of duration sufficient to induce oocyte maturation, but with markedly reduced rates of the most significant complication of IVF treatment, ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). Kisspeptin could also be used chronically to restore reproductive health in patients with functional hypogonadism, such as those with HA. Furthermore, kisspeptin has potential as a diagnostic test of hypothalamic function; a “kisspeptin test” could be used in children with delayed puberty to identify the subset with genetically determined deficits in hypothalamic pathways (congenital hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism [CHH]). In addition to its role in hypothalamic GnRH pulse generation, NKB plays a critical role in the occurrence of one of the most troubling symptoms of the menopause, the “hot flush.” Neurokinin-3 receptor (NK3R) antagonists are highly effective as treatments for hot flushes in postmenopausal women, with several compounds now in late-phase development. Furthermore, NK3R antagonism leads to a reduction in LH secretion by reducing GnRH pulsatility in the hypothalamus and has been shown to reduce androgen levels in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) (in whom GnRH pulsatility is often increased). In summary, although further detailed evaluation in several clinical settings is ongoing, medications based on kisspeptin and NKB pathways have prodigious potential in the assessment and treatment of reproductive disorders.
Exploring the Viability of NARNIA with Cognitive–Communication Difficulties: A Pilot Study
Authors: Whitworth Anne , Ng Naomi , Timms Lydia , Power Emma
Published: December 2019

Everyday discourse is a common context for the difficulties experienced by people with acquired neurogenic communication disorders. While evidence is present for effective manualized interventions that directly improve the discourse skills in aphasia, this remains limited for people with cognitive–communication disorders. This proof of concept study used an in-depth case series approach to trial the NARNIA discourse intervention used successfully in aphasia to explore transferability of the protocol and effectiveness in people with cognitive–communication impairments. Four female participants with mild to moderate cognitive–communication difficulties (mean age: 52.8 years)—two following traumatic brain injury and two following vascular episodes—were recruited. Modifications were made to the protocol to accommodate the participant group. Cognitive-linguistic abilities, self-perceptions of communicative behavior and psychosocial recovery, and repeated discourse measures were assessed pre-, immediately post, and at 4 weeks following intervention, to measure treatment effectiveness. Significant gains were observed in quantity of output, informativeness, and efficiency of information across both everyday and narrative discourse genres for all participants. However, in contrast to previous studies, minimal change was observed in discourse macrostructure elements. Significant improvements were also observed in memory or working memory for two participants. This study provides preliminary evidence for the effectiveness of using an adapted protocol with people with cognitive–communication disorders, highlighting how adaptations may address the cognitive needs of this diverse clinical group.
Role of Viral Agents in Childhood Central Nervous System Infections
Authors: Cosgun Yasemin , Bayrakdar Fatma , Karademirtok Hulya , Atak Tunca , Korukluoglu Gulay
Published: December 2019

Rapid laboratory diagnosis in acute viral infections in the central nervous system (CNS) is important for the direction of treatment. In this study, we aimed to evaluate viral agents detected by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples sent to the national virology reference laboratory for the diagnosis of acute CNS viral infection in the 0 to 18 age group. The results of 5,255 CSF samples submitted to the laboratory between January 1, 2009, and February 14, 2018, were retrospectively reviewed. Test results of CSF samples tested with the multiplex real-time PCR panel (Fast Track Diagnostics/Viral Meningitis commercial kit, Luxembourg) kit were evaluated. PCR positivity was detected in 216 (4.11%) of the 5,255 CSF samples tested. The most common agents were enteroviruses 92 (42.6%) and herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1) 87 (40.2%) while varicella-zoster virus (VZV) 24 (11.1%), mumps virus 10 (4.62%), parechovirus 2 (0.92%), and herpes simplex virus-2 (HSV-2) 1 (0.46%) were less often identified. Considering the possibility that a wide variety of microorganisms may be agents of CNS infections, the performing of routine laboratory tests with multiple, fast, and reliable nucleic acid tests such as multiplex PCR provides a practical and effective approach. In addition to the identification of agents, retrospective studies of the incidence of agents will shed light on the clinical approaches in terms of the agents to be considered in the preliminary diagnosis. We consider that our results are valuable in terms of the high number of samples examined by the national virology reference laboratory over a 9-year period, and will contribute to clinicians' understanding of the epidemiology of meningitis in our country, and assist in identifying when and how to investigate patients for possible meningitis.
Moving Toward Non-transcription based Discourse Analysis in Stable and Progressive Aphasia
Authors: Dalton Sarah Grace Hudspeth , Hubbard H. Isabel , Richardson Jessica D.
Published: December 2019

Measurement of communication ability at the discourse level holds promise for predicting how well persons with stable (e.g., stroke-induced), or progressive aphasia navigate everyday communicative interactions. However, barriers to the clinical utilization of discourse measures have persisted. Recent advancements in the standardization of elicitation protocols and the existence of large databases for development of normative references have begun to address some of these barriers. Still, time remains a consistently reported barrier by clinicians. Non-transcription based discourse measurement would reduce the time required for discourse analysis, making clinical utilization a reality. The purpose of this article is to present evidence regarding discourse measures (main concept analysis, core lexicon, and derived efficiency scores) that are well suited to non-transcription based analysis. Combined with previous research, our results suggest that these measures are sensitive to changes following stroke or neurodegenerative disease. Given the evidence, further research specifically assessing the reliability of these measures in clinical implementation is warranted.
Terahertz resonant transmission through metallic mesh truss structures
Authors: Kang Chul , Kim Seong Han , Lee Gyuseok , Maeng Inhee , Han Seung Chul , Kang Kiju , Kee Chul-Sik
Published: December 2019

In mechanical engineering, truss structures have attracted much attention because of their mechanical strength and light weight. However, electromagnetic properties of truss structures have been rarely reported. We experimentally and numerically investigated a terahertz transmission through a truss structure composed of metallic meshes. In the experiments, a resonant transmission was observed through the metallic mesh truss structure. The frequencies and spatial distributions of the resonant modes were investigated in the numerical simulations. The frequencies of the resonant modes obtained from the numerical simulations agreed well with the observed frequencies. The field distributions of the resonant modes resemble those of the resonant modes of a Fabry–Perot resonator. Because truss structures are practically empty, they could be applied in realizing sensors to detect the chemical reactions of gases or molecular biomaterials in response to their changing refractive index.
Study on SF6 gas breakdown characteristics in the presence of a free metal particle
Authors: Tian Zengyao , Lin Hui , Deng Yunkun , Zhao Hu
Published: December 2019

The presence of metal particles in power equipment may cause gas discharges and threaten insulation reliability. The discharge phenomenon in the presence of particles involves complex physical processes. To describe these processes, a numerical method is proposed to analyze the relationship between the motion of the particle and the discharge at the same time. First, processes including the generation of the first electron, the formation of a streamer corona, the transition from the streamer to the leader, and the leader propagation are considered. Voltage–time characteristics are calculated with particles of different shapes. Then, the characteristics of the particle motion driven by the Coulomb force are analyzed. Finally, the threshold field for partial discharge and the breakdown in the presence of the particle are discussed taking into account the voltage–time characteristics and the analysis of the particle motion mentioned above. The results demonstrate that there is a threshold field when breakdown occurs in the presence of a long and narrow particle at the negative electrode before the particle leaves the electrode.
Experimental study of droplet shedding on laser-patterned substrates
Authors: Moghtadernejad Sara , Jadidi Mehdi , Ahmmed K. M. Tanvir , Lee Christian , Dolatabadi Ali , Kietzig Anne-Marie
Published: December 2019

An experimental study was performed to investigate the dynamics of droplet shedding under the effect of various shear flow speeds on a laser micromachined surface with superhydrophobic properties. To account for the effect of liquid properties on droplet shedding, four different liquids were used in these sets of experiments, namely, distilled water, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, and glycerol. The wetting length of the liquid droplets was measured based on the air shear speed, and three different regimes were observed based on the critical Weber and Ohnesorge numbers. In the first regime, where the Weber and Ohnesorge numbers are low, droplets deform with slight movement or rotation without detachment from the surface. Under the second regime, where the Weber number is relatively high and the Ohnesorge number is low, droplets deform and detach from the surface, and then subsequent breakup may occur. The variation of droplet detachment time with the Weber and Ohnesorge numbers is further discussed in this paper. In the third regime, where the Ohnesorge number is high, there is no droplet detachment nor are rivulets formed. Finally, empirical correlations are developed to predict the droplet behavior on laser-patterned surfaces under the effect of shear flow. This work can be used as a baseline to study the droplet dynamics on a superhydrophobic surface in cases where temperature changes the liquid properties.
The application of novel Ir-NHC polarization transfer complexes by SABRE
Authors: Hadjiali Sara , Bergmann Marvin , Kiryutin Alexey , Knecht Stephan , Sauer Grit , Plaumann Markus , Limbach Hans-Heinrich , Plenio Herbert , Buntkowsky Gerd
Published: December 2019

In recent years, the hyperpolarization method Signal Amplification By Reversible Exchange (SABRE) has developed into a powerful technique to enhance Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) signals of organic substrates in solution (mostly via binding to the nitrogen lone pair of N-heterocyclic compounds) by several orders of magnitude. In order to establish the application and development of SABRE as a hyperpolarization method for medical imaging, the separation of the Ir-N-Heterocyclic Carbene (Ir-NHC) complex, which facilitates the hyperpolarization of the substrates in solution, is indispensable. Here, we report for the first time the use of novel Ir-NHC complexes with a polymer unit substitution in the backbone of N-Heterocyclic Carbenes (NHC) for SABRE hyperpolarization, which permits the removal of the complexes from solution after the hyperpolarization of a target substrate has been generated.
Investigating the magnetic ground state of the skyrmion host material Cu2OSeO3 using long-wavelength neutron diffraction
Authors: Franke K. J. A. , Dean P. R. , Hatnean M. Ciomaga , Birch M. T. , Khalyavin D. D. , Manuel P. , Lancaster T. , Balakrishnan G. , Hatton P. D.
Published: December 2019

We present long-wavelength neutron diffraction data measured on both single crystal and polycrystalline samples of the skyrmion host material Cu2OSeO3. We observe magnetic satellites around the (01¯1) diffraction peak not accessible to other techniques, and distinguish helical from conical spin textures in reciprocal space. Our measurements show that not only the field-polarised phase but also the helical ground state are made up of ferrimagnetic clusters instead of individual spins. These clusters are distorted Cu tetrahedra, where the spin on one Cu ion is anti-aligned with the spin on the three other Cu ions.
Detection of torque effects in Co/Pt via ferromagnetic resonance
Authors: Weng Yi-Chien , Liang C.-T. , Lin J. G.
Published: December 2019

Charge-current-induced torque effects on the magnetization dynamics of ferromagnetic/metal bilayer is interesting from the aspect of fundamental physics as well as the applications in spintronic devices. The torque-induced variation of damping constant of magnetization can be foreseen from the change of the linewidth of ferromagnetic resonance spectrum. The Oersted torque (τOe) and current-induced torque (τC) are induced by charge current; while the spin-orbit torque (τSO) and field-like torque (τFL) are induced by spin current. However, the torque effects often were hindered due to the heating-induced artifacts. In this work, we particularly pay attention to minimize the Joule heating effects in order to investigate the intrinsic torque effects in cobalt (Co)/platinum (Pt) bilayer with an applied charge current ranging from −60 to 60 mA. In this range, the Oersted field is estimated as 0.25 Oe which is much smaller than the experimental result of ΔHr (∼0.7 Oe), implying some contribution from the spin-current induced field like torque. The current-polarization-induced asymmetry of linewidth ΔW, ΔW≡W+Jc−W−Jc, increases from 0 to 0.15 with Jc changing from 0 to 60 mA, which is attributed to the spin-orbit torque.
Micromagnetic simulations of first-order reversal curves in nanowire arrays using MuMax3
Authors: Eimerl R. G. , Muster K. S. , Heindl R.
Published: December 2019

We perform simulations of magnetic reversal in a 3 × 3 array of nanowires using MuMax3 micromagnetic simulation program. We record a series of first-order reversal curves (FORCs) that form distinct branches of ascending minor curves depending on the initial magnetization state. We calculate the FORC distribution, which shows 9 positive primary peaks, representing single reversals of the 9 simulated nanowires. The primary peaks form an interaction field distribution (IFD), a common feature in experimental FORC distributions due to demagnetizing interactions. The FORC distribution also contains positive and negative secondary peaks due to differing magnetization during reversal. We demonstrate the use of MuMax3 simulations to relate FORC distribution features to visualized magnetic configurations.
Uncertainty quantification of DFT-predicted finite temperature thermodynamic properties within the Debye model
Authors: Guan Pin-Wen , Houchins Gregory , Viswanathan Venkatasubramanian
Published: December 2019

Density functional theory (DFT) calculations are routinely used to screen for functional materials for a variety of applications. This screening is often carried out with a few descriptors, which use ground-state properties that typically ignore finite temperature effects. Finite-temperature effects can be included by calculating the vibration properties, and this can greatly improve the fidelity of computational screening. An important challenge for DFT-based screening is the sensitivity of the predictions to the choice of the exchange correlation function. In this work, we rigorously explore the sensitivity of finite temperature thermodynamic properties to the choice of the exchange correlation functional using the built-in error estimation capabilities within the Bayesian Error Estimation Functional-van der Waals (BEEF-vdW). The vibrational properties are estimated using the Debye model, and we quantify the uncertainty associated with finite-temperature properties for a diverse collection of materials. We find good agreement with experiment and small spread in predictions over different exchange correlation functionals for Mg, Al2O3, Al, Ca, and GaAs. In the case of Li, Li2O, and NiO, however, we find a large spread in predictions as well as disagreement between experiment and functionals due to complex bonding environments. While the energetics generated by the BEEF-vdW ensemble is typically normal, the complex mapping through the Debye model leads to the derived finite temperature properties having non-Gaussian behavior. We test a wide variety of probability distributions that best represent the finite temperature distribution and find that properties such as specific heat, Gibbs free energy, entropy, and thermal expansion coefficient are well described by normal or transformed normal distributions, while the prediction spread of volume at a given temperature does not appear to be drawn from a single distribution. Given the computational efficiency of the approach, we believe that uncertainty quantification should be routinely incorporated into finite-temperature predictions. In order to facilitate this, we have open-sourced the code base under the name dePye.
Influence of Ni doping in a lead-halide and a lead-free halide perovskites for optoelectronic applications
Authors: Islam M. N. , Hadi M. A. , Podder J.
Published: December 2019

Metal halide perovskites have become more popular for applications in solar cells and optoelectronic devices. In this study, the structural, electronic, mechanical, and optical properties of lead and lead-free metal halide cubic perovskites CsPbBr3 and CsGeBr3 and their Ni-doped structures have been studied using the first-principle density functional theory. Ni-doped CsGeBr3 shows enhanced absorbance both in the visible and the ultraviolet region. The absorption edge of Ni-doped CsBBr3 (B = Pb, Ge) shifts toward the lower energy region compared to their undoped structures. Undoped and Ni-doped lead and lead-free halides are found to have a direct bandgap, mechanical stability, and ductility. A combined analysis of the electronic, mechanical, and optical properties of these compounds suggests that lead-free perovskite CsGe0.875Ni0.125Br3 is a more suitable candidate for solar cells and optoelectronic applications.
Modeling large non-axisymmetric aerodynamic forces on a space launcher’s afterbody
Authors: Kim Meeri
Published: December 2019

A new article employs advanced numerical modeling techniques to investigate the large scale dynamics of a high Reynolds number axisymmetric separating/reattaching flow.
A comprehensive comparison of high-density SNP panels and an alternative ultra-high-density panel for genomic analyses in Nellore cattle
Authors: Ventura Ricardo V. , Brito Luiz F. , Oliveira Gerson A. , Daetwyler Hans D. , Schenkel Flavio S. , Sargolzaei Mehdi , Vandervoort Gordon , Fonseca e Silva Fabyano , Miller Stephen P. , Carvalho Minos E. , Santana Miguel H. A. , Mattos Elisangela C. , Fonseca Pablo , Eler Joanir P. , Ferraz Jose Bento Sterman
Published: December 2019

There is evidence that some genotyping platforms might not work very well for Zebu cattle when compared with Taurine breeds. In addition, the availability of panels with low to moderate number of overlapping markers is a limitation for combining datasets for genomic evaluations, especially when animals are genotyped using different SNP panels. In the present study, we compared the performance of medium- and high-density (HD) commercially available panels and investigated the feasibility of developing an ultra-HD panel (SP) containing markers from an Illumina (HD_I) and an Affymetrix (HD_A) panels. The SP panel contained 1123442 SNPs. After performing SNP pruning on the basis of linkage disequilibrium, HD_A, HD_I and SP contained 429624, 365225 and 658770 markers distributed across the whole genome. The overall mean proportion of markers pruned out per chromosome for HD_A, HD_I and SP was 15.17%, 43.18%, 38.63% respectively. The HD_I panel presented the highest mean number of runs-of-homozygosity segments per animal (45.48%, an increment of 5.11% compared with SP) and longer segments, on average (3057.95 kb per segment), than did both HD_A and SP. HD_I also showed the highest mean number of SNPs per run-of-homozygosity segment. Consequently, the majority of animals presented the highest genomic inbreeding levels when genotyped using HD_I. The visual examination of marker distribution along the genome illustrated uncovered regions among the different panels. Haplotype-block comparison among panels and the average haplotype size constructed on the basis of HD_A were smaller than those from HD_I. The average number of SNPs per haplotype was different between HD_A and HD_I. Both HD_A and HD_I panels achieved high imputation accuracies when used as the lower-density panels for imputing to SP. However, imputation accuracy from HD_A to SP was greater than was imputation from HD_I to SP. Imputation from one HD panel to the other is also feasible. Low- and medium-density panels, composed of markers that are subsets of both HD_A and HD_I panels, should be developed to achieve better imputation accuracies to both HD levels. Therefore, the genomic analyses performed in the present study showed significant differences among the SNP panels used.
The translation of Palestinian prisoners’ cryptic security Arabic terms into English
Authors: Shehab Ekrema , Daragmeh Abdelkarim , Rayyan Iman
Published: December 2019

This study deals with the translation into English of nine cryptic security Arabic terms Palestinian prisoners
have nomenclatured in response to the life conditions in Israeli prisons. These terms were collected from prison literature and
through interviews with five newly-freed Palestinian prisoners who served long terms in Israeli jails. The terms’ functions are
pragmatically explicated, and suitable translations, capturing their pragmatic imports, are offered. The study found that these
terms have drifted from their original semantic usages and acquired new functions prompted by Palestinian prisoners’ needs for
self- and mate-security concerns. In such cases of highly contextualized language usages, the translation options range from those
capturing the form and/or function to those capturing the communicative sense independently.
Uncertainty evaluation in general including simple artificial applications and Monte Carlo uncertainty evaluation
Authors: Wunderli Samuel
Published: December 2019

A short introduction of the general bottom-up uncertainty evaluation approach according to the ISO-GUM, JCGM 100 was presented [1, 3]. The Monte-Carlo Method (MCM) for the evaluation of the measurement uncertainty was outlined [2]. An application of the Monte-Carlo technique to the standard addition method using a simple excel-spreadsheet was explained in order to encourage the use of this important and powerful approach. A four and a five point standard addition method were compared for different sets of uncertainties of input variables and represented graphically.
Development of optical nanosensors based on dynamic light scattering and fluorescence and detection devices for them
Authors: Sadagov A Yu , Alenichev M K , Drozhzhennikova E B , Yushina A A , Levin A D , Nagaev A I
Published: December 2019

The paper shows the research work at VNIIOFI in the field of optical nanosensors based on dynamic light scattering (DLS) and fluorescence. Both nanosensors and diagnostic devices for them were developed.
Detection of synthetic dyes in red wines
Authors: Aprelev A , Davydova E , Smirnov V , Pryadka A , Lavrov E
Published: December 2019

The falsification of drinks, syrups, extracts and concentrates, as a rule, is of a technological nature and is carried out by diluting, as well as completely or partially replacing natural ingredients with essences, sweeteners, colorants and other additives, including synthetic ones. Painted fruits are distinguished by the presence of anthocyanins - compounds that determine their color and have high antioxidant activity. The paper describe developments of libraries of spectra of artificial dyes used as additives in drinks and food products and of spectra of natural juices (containing anthocyanins) in the wavelength range of the visible part of the spectrum from 400 to 760 nm.
Measurements of sulfur, phosphorus and nickel in biological samples like bovine liver by atomic emission spectroscopy
Authors: Stakheev A A , Stolboushkina T P
Published: December 2019

The work considers the method of atomic emission spectroscopy, the preparation of laboratory plasticware, the preparation of samples, the parameters of the spectrometer and processing measurement results are given. As confirmation of the correctness of the measurements, the results of the international comparison CCQM-K145 are presented.
Institutional Theory in Organization Studies
Authors: David Robert J. , Tolbert Pamela S. , Boghossian Johnny
Published: December 2019

Institutional theory is a prominent perspective in contemporary organizational research. It encompasses a large, diverse body of theoretical and empirical work connected by a common emphasis on cultural understandings and shared expectations. Institutional theory is often used to explain the adoption and spread of formal organizational structures, including written policies, standard practices, and new forms of organization. Tracing its roots to the writings of Max Weber on legitimacy and authority, the perspective originated in the 1950s and 1960s with the work of Talcott Parsons, Philip Selznick, and Alvin Gouldner on organization–environment relations. It subsequently underwent a “cognitive turn” in the 1970s, with an emphasis on taken-for-granted habits and assumptions, and became commonly known as “neo-institutionalism” in organizational studies. Recently, work based on the perspective has shifted from a focus on processes involved in producing isomorphism to a focus on institutional change, exemplified by studies of the emergence of new laws and regulations, products, services, and occupations. The expansion of the theoretical framework has contributed to its long-term vitality, though a number of challenges to its development remain, including resolving inconsistencies in the different models of decision-making and action (homo economicus vs. homo sociologicus) that underpin institutional analysis and improving our understanding of the intersection of socio-cultural forces and entrepreneurial agency.
Navigation Towards the Source Through Chemosensory Strategies and Mechanisms
Authors: Cohen Yaniv
Published: December 2019

Asymmetry of bilateral visual and auditory sensors has functional advantages for depth visual perception and localization of auditory signals, respectively. In order to detect the spatial distribution of an odor, bilateral olfactory organs may compare side differences of odor intensity and timing by using a simultaneous sampling mechanism; alternatively, they may use a sequential sampling mechanism to compare spatial and temporal input detected by one or several chemosensors. Extensive research on strategies and mechanisms necessary for odor source localization has been focused mainly on invertebrates. Several recent studies in mammals such as moles, rodents, and humans suggest that there is an evolutionary advantage in using stereo olfaction for successful navigation towards an odor source. Smelling in stereo or a three-dimensional olfactory space may significantly reduce the time to locate an odor source; this quality provides instantaneous information for both foraging and predator avoidance. However, since mammals are capable of finding odor sources and tracking odor trails with one sensor side blocked, they may use an intriguing temporal mechanism to compare odor concentration from sniff to sniff. A particular focus of this article is attributed to differences between insects and mammals regarding the use of unilateral versus bilateral chemosensors for odor source localization.
Adult Learners
Authors: Tennant Mark
Published: December 2019

Adult learning is described as learning undertaken by adults in natural educational settings as opposed to the experimental settings often undertaken in psychological research on learning. As such, the theory and research on adult learning referred to in this article primarily draws on applied educational research reported in adult education journals. Much of this research is informed by psychological and social research and theory, and this is acknowledged in each of six adult learning themes outlined in this article. These themes are self-directed learning, experience and learning, learning styles, the development of identity in the adult years, intellectual and cognitive development, and transformative learning.

While these themes focus on adult learning in a general sense, our understanding of adult learning also needs to be seen in relation to the context in question; contexts such as health, the third age, indigenous knowledge, literacy and numeracy, the environment, disability, community education, gender equity, race, and migrant and refugee education.

The literature on adult learning offers very few prescriptive bridges linking research, theory, and practice. This is partly because there are competing theories posing different questions and offering opposing interpretations of research findings, but it is also because the purpose and function of education and learning is a contested field. In these circumstances the best approach for practitioners is to interrogate and improve their practice through engaging with research findings, competing models, and competing theories. In this way they are aware of the variables at play and can formulate practices that are consistent with their educational aims and purposes.

The link between research, theory and practice is conceptual rather than prescriptive, with practitioners interrogating and improving their practice by engaging with the issues and the competing claims of theory and research.
High Stakes Testing and Educational Inequality in K-12 Schools
Authors: Solórzano Ronald W.
Published: December 2019

The ubiquitous use of high stakes tests in K-12 schools in the United States has a deleterious effect on students of color (e.g., Black and Latino). Punitive policies related to test outcomes, such as retention and graduation, have been particularly damaging. In fact, the historical use of tests has been linked to exclusionary and racist motives resulting in discriminatory practices in college admissions while leading to genetic and cultural deficit theories to explain low achievement for students of color. The legacy of these early uses of tests has maintained its adverse presence in today’s educational landscape. National data on grade retention, high school dropout rates, and achievement indicate that students of color are disproportionately penalized by school-based policies resulting in an unequal educational experience. Unfortunately, these trends have been persistent reflecting achievement gaps between White and Asian students and Latino and Black students, and where, in most cases, no meaningful progress in eliminating these gaps has been made. English learners are particularly harmed by these policies and tests since language and opportunity to learn (OTL) concerns persist. Trends of low achievement are attributed to poorly resourced schools, cultural deficit theories employed by school personnel, and the invalid use of tests. Schools could serve students better by employing a curriculum and instruction that is culturally and linguistically relevant, that integrates communities and schools to critically analyze their educational and social-political status and agency thus empowering both for lasting change. Furthermore, teachers need to be empowered to be instructional leaders who critically evaluate their curriculum and instruction so as to educate and liberate students of color.
Modern Science and Technology in India
Authors: Lourdusamy John
Published: December 2019

Modern science and technology (S&T) has been present in India almost as long as it has anywhere else in the world. But the nature of its blossoming in India was substantially different, due to the huge (if not sole) role played by India’s colonial experience—especially the British colonial rule. The colonial state used modern S&T in practical and ideological ways to control the territory and its resources, and to keep colonial subjects in awe and submission. Correspondingly, the local intelligentsia’s interest in science was marked by ideological and instrumental concerns. The compulsions of colonialism did not allow for an easy flow of knowledge and expertise. Yet, with limited openings in education and scientific professions, Indians were able to acquire a measure of proficiency that could even lead to a Nobel Prize. The engagement, however, was not marked by one-way diffusion and passive acceptance, but by active appropriation and redefinition according to local imperatives. There was also an active critique of modern S&T—especially in its “big” forms and violent faces. After independence, the new nation state opted for a path of massive development of industry and agriculture through deployment of modern S&T, whereby world-class institutions, infrastructure industries, and research laboratories were opened in different parts of the country. While these have produced remarkable results, the meeting of science and state has led to stark ironies and difficulties. Also, continuing critiques of the authority of modern S&T, the undesirable economic, social, and ecological effects produced by it, and the renewed interest in “traditional alternatives” pose serious challenges to any uncontested or triumphalist march of modern S&T in India.
The Anthropology of Hope
Authors: Jansen Stef
Published: December 2019

As part of a belated interest in people’s engagements with possible futures, the start of the third millennium witnessed the emergence of a burgeoning subfield around the anthropology of hope. Anthropologists investigate the objects of people’s hopes and their attempts to fulfill them. They also reflect on hope as an affect and disposition, and as a method of knowledge production. Three interrelated but analytically distinguishable concerns can be discerned in the anthropology of hope. First, anthropologists are interested in the conditions of possibility of hoping. Such studies of the political economy of hope explore the circumstances in which hopefulness does or does not flourish, and the unequal distribution of intensities of hoping, and of particular hopes, among different categories of people. A second domain consists of anthropological research on the shapes that hoping takes. Studies in this phenomenological vein investigate how hopefulness and hopes appear in the world. How does hoping work over time in people’s practices, reflections, and orientations, and with which intended and unintended effects? A third concern emerges around the relationship between hoping as a subject matter of ethnographic study and anthropology as a form of knowledge production. How do scholarly understandings of hope inform the development of the discipline and, particularly, its engagement with political critique and its capacity to help imagine alternatives?
Natural Hazards Governance in India
Authors: Sharma Anshu , Kumar Sunny
Published: December 2019

India faces a very broad range of hazards due to its wide geoclimatic spread. This, combined with deep-rooted social, economic, physical, and institutional vulnerabilities, makes India one of the highest disaster-affected countries in the world. Natural hazards have gained higher visibility due to an increasing frequency and magnitude of their impact in recent decades, and efforts to manage disasters have been largely unable to keep pace with the growing incidences, scale, and complexities of disaster events.

A number of mega events between 1990 and 2005, including earthquakes, cyclones, floods, and a tsunami, created momentum in decision making to look at disasters critically and to push for a shift from response to mitigation and preparedness. While efforts were put in place for appropriate legislation, institution building, and planning, these processes were long drawn out and time and resource intensive. It has taken years for the governance systems to begin showing results on the ground.

While these efforts were being formulated, the changing face of disasters began to present new challenges. Between 2005 and 2015, a number of unprecedented events shook the system, underscoring the increasing variability and thus unpredictability of natural hazards as a new normal. Events in this period included cloudbursts and flash floods in the deserts, droughts in areas that are normally flood prone, abnormal hail and storm events, and floods of rare fury. To augment the shifting natural hazard landscape, urbanization and changing lifestyles have made facing disasters more challenging. For example, having entire cities run out of water is a situation that response systems are not geared to address.

The future will be nothing like the past, with climate change adding to natural hazard complexities. Yet, the tools to manage hazards and reduce vulnerabilities are also evolving to unprecedented levels of sophistication. Science, people, and innovations will be valuable instruments for addressing the challenges of natural hazards in the times ahead.
Involving People in Informal Settlements in Natural Hazards Governance Based on South African Experience
Authors: Sutherland Catherine
Published: December 2019

Natural hazard governance in countries in the Global South is shifting from a state-centered approach, which has predominantly focused on disaster risk management, with limited involvement of citizens, and a disaster response to a hazard event, to an approach which is more participatory, inclusive and proactive. This emerging approach aims to be transformative, as it draws on the knowledge and skills of multiple actors, including community members; focuses on risk reduction and adaptation; and builds new models of participatory risk governance at the local and city scale.

Progressive legislation has played a major role in supporting this evolution toward a more transformative approach to natural hazard governance, which recognizes the political economy and political ecology of risk. This includes acknowledging the vulnerability of communities in particular contexts, and the need to address development deficits to build resilience in the face of natural hazards. However, a significant gap exists between progressive legislation and policy, and implementation. Informal settlements experience some of the worst impacts of natural hazards due to their exposure, vulnerability, and social and political marginalization. However, they are also resilient and adaptive, developing innovative approaches in partnership with the state and other actors, to plan for and respond to natural hazards. Empirical research on particular case studies where these shifts in governance are evident, is necessary to explore the opportunities for and barriers to transformative, participatory natural hazard governance in cities in the South.
Volume Electron Microscopy Study of the Relationship Between Synapses and Astrocytes in the Developing Rat Somatosensory Cortex
Authors: Kikuchi Toko , Gonzalez-Soriano Juncal , Kastanauskaite Asta , Benavides-Piccione Ruth , Merchan-Perez Angel , DeFelipe Javier , Blazquez-Llorca Lidia
Published: December 2019

In recent years, numerous studies have shown that astrocytes play an important role in neuronal processing of information. One of the most interesting findings is the existence of bidirectional interactions between neurons and astrocytes at synapses, which has given rise to the concept of “tripartite synapses” from a functional point of view. We used focused ion beam milling and scanning electron microscopy (FIB/SEM) to examine in 3D the relationship of synapses with astrocytes that were previously labeled by intracellular injections in the rat somatosensory cortex. We observed that a large number of synapses (32%) had no contact with astrocytic processes. The remaining synapses (68%) were in contact with astrocytic processes, either at the level of the synaptic cleft (44%) or with the pre- and/or post-synaptic elements (24%). Regarding synaptic morphology, larger synapses with more complex shapes were most frequently found within the population that had the synaptic cleft in contact with astrocytic processes. Furthermore, we observed that although synapses were randomly distributed in space, synapses that were free of astrocytic processes tended to form clusters. Overall, at least in the developing rat neocortex, the concept of tripartite synapse only seems to be applicable to a subset of synapses.
P167 MINIMALLY-INVASIVE 3-STAGE ESOPHAGECTOMY FOR CANCER WITH COLONIC INTERPOSITION: THE INITIAL EXPERIENCE IN A TERTIARY CENTER
Authors: Vagios Ilias , Syllaios Athanasios , Meropouli Antonia , Zografos Konstantinos , Karydakis Lysandros , Felekouras Evangelos , Charalabopoulos Alexandros , Liakakos Theodore
Published: December 2019

Aim

First choice for restoration of the gastrointestinal tract after esophagectomy is gastric conduit, however when stomach is unavailable as in history of gastrectomy, concurrent gastric disease or gastric cancer, colon or subsequently jejenum can be used as an esophageal substitute. The aim of this study is to discuss safety, technique and feasibility of colonic interposition, in the era of minimally invasive surgery in a tertiary esophageal centre.

Background & Methods

From 01/09/2018 to 01/06/19, two patients with esophageal cancer underwent Hybrid 3-stage esophagectomy, using the left colon as an esophageal conduit, in our department. Both patients were objected to thoracoscopic esophageal mobilization, in prone position. The patients were then turned to supine position and laparotomy was performed. Colonic conduit was prepared, transferred to the left neck in a posterior mediastinal position and a handsewn oesophagocolonic anastomosis was performed. Clinicopathological outcomes were studied.

Results

Mean operative time was 420 minutes and mean blood loss was 160cc. No intraoperative complications were reported. The mean time of Intensive care unit stay of our patients was 6 days and mean duration of hospital stay was 25 days. Postoperative complications observed was 1 contralateral pneumothorax and 1 ipsilateral pneumonia. R0 resection was achieved in both patients. Mean lymph nodes harvested were 45. Both patients were discharged in good clinical condition.

Conclusion

Hybrid 3-stage esophagectomy with colonic interposition may be a safe and feasible technique when performed in an experienced Upper Gastrointestinal Surgical Department Unit.
Assess frailty but avoid frailtyism
Authors: Vitale Cristiana , Hill Loreena
Published: December 2019

The assessment of frailty in heart failure patients can help clinicians to build a tailored care plan, aimed at improving the selection of patients likely to benefit from one treatment vs. another, thereby improving outcomes. Although progress has been made in the ‘operationalization’ of frailty assessment, there is still the need to provide an improved instrument to assess frailty that is easy, quick and at the same time predictive within the setting of a busy clinical practice. Using such an ideal instrument, clinicians would be able to optimize the use of limited health care resources and avoid what has been termed ‘frailtyism’. This term, similar to ageism, can be defined as prejudice or discrimination based on the presence of frailty.