bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A fracture mechanics framework for optimising design and inspection of offshore Wind Turbine support structures against fatigue failure
Authors: Amirafshari Peyman , Brenan Feargal , Kolios Athanasios
Published: April 2020

Abstract. Offshore Wind Turbine (OWT) support structures need to be designed against fatigue failure under cyclic aerodynamic and wave loading. The fatigue failure can be accelerated in a corrosive sea environment. Traditionally, a stress-life approach called the S-N curve method has been used for design of structures against fatigue failure. There are a number of limitations in S-N approach related to welded structures which can be addressed by the fracture mechanics approach. In this paper the limitations of the S-N approach related to OWT support structure are addressed, a fatigue design framework based on fracture mechanics is developed. The application of the framework to a monopile OWT support structure is demonstrated and optimisation of in-service inspection of the structure is studied. It was found that both the design of the weld joint and Non-destructive testing techniques can be optimised to reduce In-service frequency. Furthermore, probabilistic fracture mechanics as a form of risk-based design is outlined and its application to the monopile support structure is studied. The probabilistic model showed to possess a better capability to account for NDT reliability over a range of possible crack sizes as well as providing a risk associated with the chosen inspection time which can be used in inspection cost benefit analysis. There are a number of areas for future research. including better estimate of fatigue stress with a time-history analysis, the application of framework to other types of support structures such as Jackets and Tripods, and integration of risk-based optimisation with a cost benefit analysis.
Actionable Consequences: Reconstruction, Therapy, and the Remainder of Social Science
Authors: Hogan Brendan , Marcelle Lawrence
Published: April 2020

The goal of providing a scientific account of human behavior has driven a great variety of research programs in the social sciences since their disciplinary formation and institutionalization. Arguably, the most dominant mode of social scientific discourse in the last century has been economics. Economists have given various answers to the possibility of providing a scientific account of human action. The most dominant school of thought, neoclassical economics, has answered this in the affirmative. However, the neoclassical model of human agency placed the rational chooser, or homo economicus, at the foundation of this scientific account. Homo economicus has been subjected to a wide variety of criticisms, including from within economics itself. Recently, this critique has taken shape in the work of behavioral economists such as Daniel Kahneman. However critical this rival theory may be, it remains the case that both schools rest upon an understanding of the methods and aims of economics that was the target of both John Dewey and Ludwig Wittgenstein. This article draws out several consequences of examining both rival economic schools from Dewey’s reconstructive understanding of inquiry and Wittgenstein’s therapeutic treatment of intellectual problems.
Evaluation of Numeracy Skills of Adults According to the Results of PIAAC 2015 in Turkey
Authors: Atasoy Ramazan , Güçlü Nezahat
Published: April 2020

In this research, it is aimed to put forward the variables that predict the numeracy skills in PIAAC of Turkey, to reveal the relationship between the numeracy skills with educational level, education level of parents, number of books in the household, and annual income. It is also aimed to evaluate the quality of educational outcomes of the Turkish National Education System (TNES). The research is designed in a descriptive-analytical method. The sampling of the study is 5199 households. Mean, t-test, correlation, and CHAID analysis were used in the analysis. In the study, the performance of the numeracy skills of adults in Turkey was found to be very low and, it was emphasized the quality problems of TNES have remained. Moreover, the most powerful predictor of numeracy skills is educational level. There is also a significant relationship between numeracy scores with education level, education level of parents, income, number of books, and computer use. It is expected to provide a new perspective to the policymakers and researchers in education about the appearance of the TNES.
Quality Framework of Higher Education in Vietnam, Malaysia and Nigeria
Authors: Hanh Nguyen Duc , Loan Vu Quynh , Viet Nguyen My
Published: April 2020

The purpose of this study is to investigate how Vietnam, Malaysia and Nigeria quality assurance agencies operate towards ensuring quality in higher education institutions. Quality assurance systems was investigated with respect to social demands and it was compared based on the key concepts: autonomy, accountability and improvement. The study relied on qualitative document analysis methods and was conducted on relevant higher education and policy, quality assurance systems of Viet Nam Ministry Education and Training, quality assurance of National Universities Commission, National Board for Technical Education of Nigeria and Malaysian Qualification Agency respectively and their challenges were assessed and compared. There are deals of convergence between Quality Assurance systems of Viet Nam, Malaysia and Nigeria. Viet Nam and Malaysia has a single Quality Assurance system while Nigeria has multi Quality Assurance systems. In all three countries’ Quality Assurance systems made achievements in terms of autonomy, accountability and improvement. In Vietnam, Vietnamese Qualification Agency: internal Quality Assurance is embedded within an accreditation system, but still requires a recognition external quality assurance agency. In Malaysia, Malaysian Qualification Agency: internal Quality Assurance is embedded within accreditation system and reduced the involvement of external Quality Assurance agency. In Nigeria, the National Universities Commission, National Board for Technical Education and National Commission for Colleges of Education of Nigeria provides guidelines for higher education institutions to assist build their internal Quality Assurance. Vietnam and Malaysia Quality Assurance experienced accountability being demonstrated for continuous improvement while Nigeria Quality Assurance accountability is seen with invisible improvement due to challenges associated with the quality frameworks. The study gives appreciated vision into Quality Assurance systems and frameworks of higher education institutions and how Quality Assurance responds to the social demands of stakeholders.
Het loon van de vereffenaar ex artikel 4:206 lid 3 BW: is er nog een rekening te vereffenen?
Authors: Diks J.Th.M. , Lavrijssen N.
Published: April 2020

Het loon van de vereffenaar ex artikel 4:206 lid 3 BW: is er nog een rekening te vereffenen?

Een door de rechter benoemde vereffenaar heeft op grond van artikel 4:206 lid 3 BW recht op loon dat door de kantonrechter wordt vastgesteld. Over het loon van de vereffenaar en het eventuele voorschot daarop ontstaat met enige regelmaat discussie en bestaat ook nog de nodige onduidelijkheid. In deze bijdrage gaan de auteurs hierop in. Daarbij wordt tevens ingegaan op de Recofa-richtlijnen voor de bepaling van de hoogte van het loon, de positie die een vereffenaar als schuldeiser inneemt en de actie die erfgenamen ter beschikking staat als ze het niet eens zijn met de hoogte van het loon van de vereffenaar. Ook wordt een vergelijking gemaakt met het salaris van de curator in een faillissement.
Canadian Guidelines on Alcohol Use Disorder Among Older Adults
Authors: Butt Peter R. , White-Campbell Marilyn , Canham Sarah , Dowsett Johnston Ann , Indome Eunice O. , Purcell Bonnie , Tung Jennifer , Van Bussel Lisa
Published: April 2020

BackgroundAlcohol use disorder (AUD) is an increasingly common, under-recognized, and under-treated health concern in older adults. Its prevalence is expected to reach unprecedented levels as the Canadian population ages. In response, Health Canada commissioned the Canadian Coalition of Seniors’ Mental Health to create guidelines for the prevention, screening, assessment, and treatment of AUD in older adults.MethodsA systematic review of English language literature from 2008–2018 regarding AUD in adults was conducted. Previously published guidelines were evaluated using AGREE II, and key guidelines updated using ADAPTE method by drawingon current literature. Recommendations were created and assessed using the GRADE method.ResultsTwenty-two recommendations were created. Prevention recommendations: Best advice for older adults who choose to drink is to limit intake to well below the national Low-Risk Alcohol Drinking Guidelines. Screening recommendations: Alcohol consumption should be reviewed and discussed on an annual basis by primary care providers. This type of discussion needs to be normalized and approached in a simple, neutral, straight-forward manner. Assessment recommendations: Positive screens for AUD should be followed by a comprehensive assessment. Once more details are obtained an individualized treatment plan can be recommended, negotiated,and implemented. Treatment recommendations: AUD falls on a spectrum of mild, moderate, and severe. Itcan also be complicated by concurrent mental health, physical, or social issues, especially in older adults. Naltrexone and Acamprosate pharmacotherapies can be used for the treatment of AUD in older adults, as individually indicated. Psychosocial treatment and support should be offered as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Nachhaltigkeitsberichterstattung in europäischen Elektrizitätsversorgungsunternehmen
Authors: Greiling Dorothea , Slacik Johannes , Edelbauer Sarah
Published: April 2020

Der Energieversorgungssektor zählt seit vielen Jahren unter Effizienz- und Umweltgesichtspunkten zu den reputationssensiblen Branchen. Ein, in den vergangenen Jahren insbesondere bei Großunternehmen, an Bedeutung gewinnendes Instrument zur Rechenschaftslegung über finanzielle, ökologische und soziale Belange ist die Nachhaltigkeitsberichterstattung. Um einen Einblick in die aktuelle Berichterstattungspraxis von Elektrizitätsversorgungsunternehmen (EVU) in Europa zu erhalten, wurde eine quantitative Inhaltsanalyse von Nachhaltigkeitsberichten nach den Richtlinien der Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) durchgeführt. Es wurden 87 Berichte von europäischen EVU entlang der (sektor-neutralen und sektor-spezifischen) Kriterien der GRI G4-Richtlinie analysiert, um Inhalte und das Ausmaß der Berichterstattung zu ermitteln. Die Abdeckungsrate der Angaben fällt im Durchschnitt mittelmäßig aus. Die soziale Dimension in den Nachhaltigkeitsberichten europäischer EVU ist leicht unterrepräsentiert. Entlang aller drei Säulen besteht noch Spielraum für mehr Transparenz. Zudem wurde untersucht, wie sich die Eigentümerschaft und die Börsennotierung auf den Umfang der Nachhaltigkeitsberichterstattung auswirken. Die Hypothese, dass öffentliche EVU als Stewards des öffentlichen Interesses besser abschneiden, hat sich nicht bestätigt. Eine Börsennotierung wirkt sich dagegen positiv aus, was sich aus theoretischer Sicht mit Hilfe des Neuen Soziologischen Institutionalismusses erklären lässt.
Rechnungslegung gemeinnütziger Organisationen. Eine empirische Untersuchung zu Merkmalen und Rechnungslegung gemeinnütziger Organisationen in Deutschland
Authors: Adam Berit
Published: April 2020

Der dritte Sektor ist im letzten Jahrzehnt stark gewachsen. Um sich im Wettbewerb um finanzielle Mittel durchsetzen zu können, hat sich die Transparenz des Dritten Sektors in den letzten Jahren erhöht, nicht zuletzt durch Initiativen wie die Initiative Transparente Zivilgesellschaft oder das DZI-Spendensiegel. Bislang fehlen jedoch weiterhin einheitliche Veröffentlichungspflichten in Deutschland. In Bezug auf die Rechnungslegung sind gemeinnützige Vereine und Stiftungen lediglich zur Erstellung einer Einnahmen-Ausgaben-Rechnung sowie einer Vermögensübersicht verpflichtet, die sie ihren Mitgliedern bzw. den Aufsichtsorganen zugänglich machen müssen. Zur Untersuchung der tatsächlich angewandten Rechnungslegungsvorschriften wurde in 2009 eine Studie durchgeführt, deren Ergebnisse mittels einer Vollerhebung in dieser Untersuchung aktualisiert wurden. Zudem wurde analysiert, in welchem Umfang gemeinnützige Organisationen die vom Institut der Wirtschaftsprüfer e.V. erarbeiteten Empfehlungen zur Rechnungslegung spendensammelnder Organisationen anwenden.
Towards a Vocabulary to Implement Culturally Relevant Relationships Between Digital Collections in Heritage Institutions
Authors: Marcondes Carlos H.
Published: April 2020

Cultural heritage institutions are publishing their digital collections over the web as LOD. This is is a new step in the patrimonialization and curatorial processes developed by such institutions. Many of these collections are thematically superimposed and complementary. Frequently, objects in these collections present culturally relevant relationships, such as a book about a painting, or a draft or sketch of a famous painting, etc. LOD technology enables such heritage records to be interlinked, achieving interoperability and adding value to digital collections, thus empowering heritage institutions. An aim of this research is characterizing such culturally relevant relationships and organizing them in a vocabulary. Use cases or examples of relationships between objects suggested by curators or mentioned in literature and in the conceptual models as FRBR/LRM, CIDOC CRM and RiC-CM, were collected and used as examples or inspiration of cultural relevant relationships. Relationships identified are collated and compared for identifying those with the same or similar meaning, synthesized and normalized. A set of thirty-three culturally relevant relationships are identified and formalized as a LOD property vocabulary to be used by digital curators to interlink digital collections. The results presented are provisional and a starting point to be discussed, tested, and enhanced.
Comparing alignment and multiple group CFA for analysing political trust in europe during the crisis
Authors: Coromina Lluís , Bartolomé Peral Edurne
Published: April 2020

Institutional trust is in decline in many western democracies. Since the 2008 global economic and financial crisis, this increasing distrust has been closely related to trust in political institutions. Trust in institutions is one of the pillars of democracy, and its decline is one of the most evident and shared symptoms of the recession, especially in those contexts where it has been particularly acute. This article has both substantive and methodological aims. From a substantive point of view, it deals with trust in political institutions in Europe, and its decline during the recession. Differences are found among European countries, depending on the severity of the economic crisis. From a methodological point of view, the article compares two methodologies for cross-cultural analyses: the more traditional Multiple-Group Confirmatory Factor Analysis, and the newer Alignment method. Recommendations for the use of the newer method in certain circumstances are provided.
Diversity of rhizosphere and endophytic fungi in Atractylodes macrocephala during continuous cropping
Authors: Zhu Bo , Wu Jianjun , Ji Qingyong , Wu Wei , Dong Shihui , Yu Jiayan , Zhang Qiaoyan , Qin Luping
Published: April 2020

Rhizospheric and endophytic fungi are key factors which influence plant fitness and soil fertility. Atractylodes macrocephala is one of the best-known perennial herbs used in traditional Chinese medicine. Continuous cropping has been shown to have a negative effect on its growth and renders it more susceptible to microbial pathogen attacks. In this study, we investigated the effects of continuous cropping on the endophytic and rhizospheric fungi associated with A.  macrocephala using culture-independent Illumina MiSeq. Continuous cropping was found to decrease fungal diversity inside plant roots, stems, leaves and tubers. Additionally, we found that the structure and diversity of rhizospheric and endophytic fungal communities were altered by root-rot disease. Fusarium was overrepresented among root-rot rhizospheric and endophytic fungi, indicating that it has a major negative impact on plant health during A.  macrocephala monocropping. Canonical correspondence analysis of the control and diseased samples revealed that pH, hydrolysis N, electrical conductivity and Hg content were well-correlated with fungal community composition during continuous cropping. Taken together, these results highlight the ecological significance of fungal communities in maintaining plant fitness and will guide the development strategies to attenuate the negative impacts of A.  macrocephala continuous cropping.
Antioxidant Activities, Nutritional Composition and Antinutritional Properties of Two Leafy Vegetables (Cleome rutidosperma and Cassia tora) Consumed in Adamawa State, Nigeria
Authors: Sha’a Kiliobas Kiri , Pwakangdi Susan Artimas
Published: April 2020

Antioxidants are agents which scavenge free radicals and prevent cellular damage cause by them. They reduce the damage due to free radicals by neutralizing them before they can attack the cells. The aim of this research was to evaluate the antioxidant, nutritional and antinutritional properties of two leafy vegetables, Cleome rutidosperma and Cassia tora consumed in Adamawa State, Nigeria. 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) models were used to determine antioxidant activities of extracts. Nutritional composition and antinutritional properties were determined using standard procedures. There was a significant (p=0.05) decrease in the concentration of DPPH radical due to the scavenging activity of ethanol leaf extract of  Cleome rutidosperma compared to control/standard. In FRAP also, C. rutidosperma ethanolic extract exhibited higher ferric reducing power than C. tora. Proximate analysis revealed the nutrients for C. rutidosperma and C. tora as; crude protein (31.06±0.00% and 26.24±0.00%), fat (7.13±0.00% and 6.93±0.10%), ash (15.17±0.61% and 11.60±0.00%), crude fiber (11.06±0.01 and 13.19±0.10%), moisture (9.99±0.00% and 9.12±0.10%), NFE (25.60±0.10% and 32.94±0.10%) respectively. Antinutritionals in ethanolic extracts of C. rutidosperma and C. tora were; oxalates, saponins, tannins, cyanogenic glycosides, phytate and alkaloids. Both vegetables revealed good percentages of proteins which can be used to compliment other sources of protein. All antinutrients of extracts were within tolerable levels.
Effect of the Garcinia kola Seed on Serum Lipids in Adult Subjects
Authors: Gomina Moutawakilou , Salifou Tarik , Djidonou Gilbert , Zinsou Stanislas
Published: April 2020

Background: Many studies have reported the lipid-lowering effect of the Garcinia kola seed in experimental animals.

Objective: Assessing the effect of daily intake of Garcinia kola seed on serum lipids in adult subjects.

Methods: This research work was an intervention study based on a quasi-experimental approach carried out over a three-month period i.e. from May 1 to July 30, 2019. The study sample consisted of 40 adult subjects (18 men and 22 women) who gave their written informed consent to participate to in the study. After receiving required information, each subject underwent a baseline lipid test consisting of total cholesterol (TC), HDL cholesterol (HDL-C), LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) and triglycerides. Then, each subject consumed every day one Garcinia kola seed during 90 days. Every 30 days, a lipid test was performed. TC, HDL-C and triglycerides were determined using end-point colometric enzyme assay. LDL-C was estimated using the formula of Friedewald. Student’s t test helped compare the mean values of lipid parameters at the beginning and at the end of the experiment at the threshold of 5%.

Results: At the beginning and at the end of the experiment, the mean values in g/L of TC (1.68±0.35 vs 1.60±0.31), HDL-C (0.53±0.13 vs 0.51±0.14), LDL-C (0.97±0.36 vs 0.94±0.34) and triglycerides (0.91±0.50 vs 0.72±0.33) were not significantly different (p > 0.05). However, we noted a downward trend in those values over time during the experiment.

Conclusion: The daily consumption of Garcinia kola seed improves serum lipid profile. The use of that seed is a potential alternative to the conventional treatment of dyslipidemia.
Modelling Building Renovation Using PERT
Authors: Akpan Nsikan Paul , Agadaga Gregory Okiemute
Published: April 2020

Effective project management techniques are critical to managers and decision makers in handling projects in today’s competitive environment. It is required that with such techniques, managers can carry out projects and complete them within specified time and resource constraint. This research considers the application of Program Evaluation and Review Technique (PERT). PERT was used to analyze data collected from Mega Star Technical and Construction Company in charge of the renovation/building construction of renovaworks at 48 Forces Avenue, Old GRA, Port Harcourt, Nigeria. The technique was used to obtain the network diagram, critical path, expected completion time for the project and the probability of completion within a required date. Ms Project version (2013) software was also used for the analyses. Results obtained revealed that the project can be completed within record time and possess a very high probability of completing the project within a stipulated date.
Proximate Composition and Bioactive Compounds in Diverse Eggplant Genotypes
Authors: Bidaramali Vishwanath , Akhtar Shirin , Das Anupam
Published: April 2020

Eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) is an important solanaceous crop of tropics and sub-tropics, having high production potential, and also a rich source of nutrients, particularly, carbohydrates, proteins, dietary fibre and vitamins like thiamin, niacin, pantothenic acid and folic acid, minerals like calcium, iron, potash, zinc, copper and manganese as well as bioactive compounds. However, eggplant is available in diverse shape and colour and consumer preference varies and the nutrient composition is different. In this investigation, we worked out the proximate nutrient compounds (on dry weight basis) and the bioactive compounds (on a fresh weight basis) in twenty diverse eggplant genotypes varying in colour and shape.  Moisture content in the fruits ranged from 71.54 to 91.36%, while carbohydrate content from 2.80 to 6.82%, crude protein 16.98 to 31.85%, nitrogen 2.49 to 4.35%, phosphorous 0.29 to 0.51%, potassium 1.65 to 4.54%, calcium 0.83 to 0.35%, iron 106.21 to 235.34 mg/kg, manganese 89.01 to 245.54 mg/kg, copper 18.73 to 98.56 mg/kg and zinc 60.73 to 75.77 mg/kg, each on dry weight basis. Biochemical parameters like total soluble solids (TSS) ranged from 1.27 to 3.94 °Brix, total sugar content 2.26 to 4.65%, ascorbic acid 0.66 to 3.53 mg/100 g, total anthocyanin content 0.35 to 18.85 mg/100 g FW, total chlorophyll 0.11 to 2.70 mg/100 g FW, total phenol 1.03 to 15.65 mg catechol equivalent/100 g FW, total antioxidant 1.16 to 2.26 µmol Trolox equivalent/g FW and radical scavenging activity 50.52 to 96.48%. Proximate nutrients were highest in Pusa Uttam, Pant Rituraj and BRBL-01, quality parameters in BRBL-07 and 71-19, while bioactive compounds were highest in Pant Rituraj, Pusa Purple Long, Pusa Purple Cluster and BRBL-01. These genotypes may be utilized in future breeding programmes for developing effective and nutritive cultivars.
Fresh Vegetables and Ready-to-eat Salads: Sources of Parasitic Zoonoses in Mampong-Ashanti, Ghana
Authors: Amissah-Reynolds Papa Kofi , Yar Denis Dekugmen , Gyamerah Isaac , Apenteng Ofosuhene Yaw , Sakyi Sophia
Published: April 2020

This study assessed parasitic contamination of fresh vegetables and ready-to-eat salads from Mampong Municipality in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. Water and soil samples from various farms were also assessed for possible sources of contamination. Fresh vegetables and ready-to-eat salads were examined for parasites using saline as floatation medium, stained with Lugol’s iodine and Ziehl Neelsen and observed under X40 objective lens. Data gathered were analyzed using Microsoft Excel. Of the 271 fresh vegetables examined, Ascaris lumbricoides recorded the highest prevalence (26.94%), followed by Giardia lamblia (19.93%). However, of the 120 salad samples examined, Giardia lamblia was most prevalent (24.17%), followed by Ascaris lumbricoides (19.17%).  Fasciola spp., Moniezia, Toxocara spp., Trichuris trichiura and Entamoeba histolytica, were other parasites recovered from both fresh vegetables and salads and also from soil and water on the farms. Fresh vegetables and ready-to-eat salads were contaminated with parasites of both human and animal origin, similar to those recovered from soil and water on the farms. Farm soils and water are potential sources of parasitic infestations on vegetables. Consumers of fresh vegetables and ready-to-eat salads are at risk of diarrheal diseases and parasitic zoonoses.
Yield Response of Cowpea to Phosphorus Fertilizer Application
Authors: Bawa Alhassan
Published: April 2020

Phosphorus fertilizer application plays a major role in nodulation and grain yield production of cowpea. However, phosphorus is a major limiting nutrient in soils in Ghana. Selection of cowpea varieties that produce good biomass and grain yield under low soil phosphorus or those with high phosphorus response efficiency could be a cost-effective approach in solving the phosphorus deficiency problem in Ghana. This study was therefore conducted to determine the appropriate levels of phosphorus fertilizer application for improved nodulation and grain yield of four cowpea varieties. Two-season experiments were conducted to evaluate the influence of phosphorus (P) fertilizer on growth, nodulation, biomass and grain yield in cowpea. Each of the two experiments comprised of 16 treatment combinations of 4 cowpea varieties and 4 levels of P2O5 application laid out in 4×4 factorial experiments in RCBD with three replications. The cowpea varieties were IT × P 148, Valenga, Bengkpla and DPC. The levels of P were 0, 20, 40 and 60 kg P2O5 ha−1. The study revealed that varieties DPC and Valenga performed relatively better with respect to grain yield, shoot and root dry biomass production, nodulation, nodule dry biomass production, plant height, number of branches produced and number of days to 50% flowering across all levels of phosphorus fertilizer application. The study further established that P level of 60 kgha−1 also produced significantly higher quantities of yield and vegetative parameters such as grain yield, 100-grain weight, number of pods and branches, shoot and root dry biomass, nodulation and nodule dry biomass, as compared to P levels of 0 kgha−1, 20 kgha−1 and 40 kgha−1. Phosphorus fertilizer application level of 60 kgha−1 should be used for increased grain and biomass yield. For the purpose of producing grains for human consumption and leguminous fodder crops for feeding livestock, it is recommended that varieties DPC and Valenga should be cultivated for increased yield.
Intensity‐modulated radiation therapy for multiple targets with tomotherapy using multiple sets of static ports from different angles
Authors: Manabe Yoshihiko , Shibamoto Yuta , Murai Taro , Torii Akira , Niwa Masanari , Kondo Takuhito , Okazaki Dai , Sugie Chikao
Published: April 2020

Background

To treat multiple targets separated in the craniocaudal direction within a short time, we invented a new technique using multiple static‐port tomotherapy with the dynamic‐jaw mode and named it the pseudo‐DJDC (pDJDC) technique. We compared the pDJDC plans and helical tomotherapy plans using the dynamic‐jaw mode (HDJ) for multiple targets. In the pDJDC plans, we used a beam set with 2–7 ports to the targets at the same level in the craniocaudal direction, and employed another beam set for other targets using different port angles (9–12 angles in total).

Methods

In seven patients, two plans using the pDJDC and HDJ techniques were compared. For multiple targets (n = 2–6), 20–60 Gy in 2‐ to 7.5‐Gy fractions were prescribed for the planning target volumes at D50%. The conformity index, uniformity index (D5%/D95%), dose distribution in the lung, and treatment time were evaluated.

Results

The median conformity index of all seven patients was 3.0 for the pDJDC plans and 2.4 for the HDJ plans (P = 0.031). The median uniformity indices of the planning target volume (n = 25) for the two plans were 1.048 and 1.057, respectively (P = 0.10). For five patients with thoracic targets, the median mean lung doses were 2.6 Gy and 2.4 Gy, respectively (P = 0.63). The median V5Gy and V20Gy of the lungs in the five patients were 11.8% and 8.5% (P = 0.63), and 1.6% and 2.1% (P = 0.31), respectively. The pDJDC plans reduced the treatment time by 48% compared to the HDJ plans (median: 462 and 884 sec, respectively, P = 0.031).

Conclusion

The pDJDC technique allows treatment of multiple targets in almost half the time of the HDJ technique. The pDJDC plans were comparable to the HDJ plans in dose distribution, although the conformity index deteriorated.
Retrieving the Coassembly Pathway of Composite Cellulose Nanocrystal Photonic Films from their Angular Optical Response
Authors: Frka‐Petesic Bruno , Kelly Joel A. , Jacucci Gianni , Guidetti Giulia , Kamita Gen , Crossette Nathan P. , Hamad Wadood Y. , MacLachlan Mark J. , Vignolini Silvia
Published: April 2020

Aqueous suspensions of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) are known to self‐assemble into a chiral nematic liquid crystalline phase, leading to solid‐state nanostructured colored films upon solvent evaporation, even in the presence of templating agents. The angular optical response of these structures, and therefore their visual appearance, are completely determined by the spatial arrangement of the CNCs when the drying suspension undergoes a transition from a flowing and liquid crystalline state to a kinetically arrested state. Here, it is demonstrated how the angular response of the final film allows for retrieval of key physical properties and the chemical composition of the suspension at the onset of the kinetic arrest, thus capturing a snapshot of the past. To illustrate this methodology, a dynamically evolving sol–gel coassembly process is investigated by adding various amounts of organosilica precursor, namely, 1,2‐bis(trimethoxysilyl)ethane. The influence of organosilica condensation on the kinetic arrest can be tracked and thus explains the angular response of the resulting films. The a posteriori and in situ approach is general; it can be applied to a variety of additives in CNC‐based films and it allows access to key rheological information of the suspension without using any dedicated rheological technique.
Continuous formation of microbubbles during partial coalescence of bubbles from a submerged capillary nozzle
Authors: Tang Jiguo , Yu Shengzhi , Sun Licheng , Xie Guo , Li Xiao
Published: April 2020

Bubble formation from a downward‐pointing capillary nozzle was investigated in this study. The experiments were conducted at gas flow rate of 40–5,400 ml/h and inner nozzle radius of 0.030–0.255 mm. Experimental results show that microbubbles are formed continuously at moderate Weber number, which was not reported in pervious investigations with injecting gas through an upward‐pointing capillary nozzle. High‐speed visualization indicates that the formation of microbubbles arises from the convergence of the capillary waves induced by the partial coalescence of larger bubbles. A bubbling regime map is given to identify the critical conditions for the formation of microbubbles. In the present air‐water experiments, the generated microbubbles are 20–170 μm in diameter. From experimental data, a scaling law for microbubble size is proposed as a function of Weber and Bond numbers.
Not ‘Just a Talking Head’: Experiences of Australian Public Mental Health Clinicians Implementing a Dialogical Family Therapy Approach for Young People with Severe Mental Health Concerns
Authors: Sidis Anna , Ramirez Julia , Dawson Lisa , River Jo , Buus Niels , Singh Rajiv , Pickard Judy , Deane Frank
Published: April 2020

The evidence for efficacy of family‐based approaches for psychological problems is extensive, although model‐specific effects have not been established. However, implementation of family therapy approaches in tertiary mental health settings has been challenging due to factors such as negative staff attitudes and difficulties engaging families. Open Dialogue is an emerging network‐based therapy that has a focus on genuine collaboration, flexibility, authenticity, and openness. This study describes the experiences and perspectives of clinicians, service users and families, following training in Open Dialogue, within a child and adolescent mental health service, and an adolescent inpatient unit in public mental health services. A total of 16 participants (11 clinicians and five service users and family members) took part in semi‐structured interviews regarding their experiences with Open Dialogue. Interpretative phenomenological analysis was used to analyse interview transcripts. Four major themes were identified from interviews with clinicians: valuing responses from families, learning from families and privileging their expertise, hesitation about doing family therapy, and engaging with authenticity and flexibility. Three themes emerged from family interviews: hesitation about doing family therapy, valuing collaboration and openness, and opening space for more talk. These themes are relevant to challenges of family therapy in public mental health settings and future directions for implementation.
Novel dispersion analysis and selective quantification of particulate components in graphene nanoplatelets–polymer–polymer hybrid composites
Authors: Mohan Velram Balaji , Haalboom Martijn , Bhattacharyya Debes
Published: April 2020

Up until now, no standard procedure to analyze and quantify the dispersion of particles in the polymer matrix exists. From the conductive hybrid polymer–polymer–graphene nanoplatelets composites we developed, this article attempts to showcase methodologies to analyze and quantify particle with the use of scanning electron microscopy images and collection of the elemental maps of carbon, oxygen, and nitrogen by energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) analysis. Image analysis was performed on the resulting map to extract the area and location data of graphene particles by subtracting elemental maps. Shadowing or charging problem in the images acquired from EDS was overcome by the polished surface and analyzing a sample twice using a novel approach of 180° opposed. Merging the data from the two elemental maps, taken 180° opposed, can be an alternative to the use of polished samples. From these different dispersion analysis approaches, it was possible to quantify different particles and their effects on the properties of the composites.
The Mechanical Role of Microtubules in Tissue Remodeling
Authors: Matis Maja
Published: April 2020

During morphogenesis, tissues undergo extensive remodeling to get their final shape. Such precise sculpting requires the application of forces generated within cells by the cytoskeleton and transmission of these forces through adhesion molecules within and between neighboring cells. Within individual cells, microtubules together with actomyosin filaments and intermediate filaments form the composite cytoskeleton that controls cell mechanics during tissue rearrangements. While studies have established the importance of actin‐based mechanical forces that are coupled via intercellular junctions, relatively little is known about the contribution of other cytoskeletal components such as microtubules to cell mechanics during morphogenesis. In this review the focus is on recent findings, highlighting the direct mechanical role of microtubules beyond its well‐established role in trafficking and signaling during tissue formation.
Artenschwund in USA und Kanada
Authors: Irsch Wilhelm
Published: April 2020

Die 50 Jahres‐Bilanz ist erschreckend: Seit 1970 haben die USA und Kanada fast jede fünfte Vogelart verloren. Der Artenschwund betrifft dabei auch ehemals sehr häufige, weitverbreitete Arten. Ein Comeback feiert dagegen dank massiver Schutzmaßnahmen der Weißkopfseeadler.
Transformation of Stöber Silica Spheres to Hollow Nanocatalysts
Authors: Kosari Mohammadreza , Borgna Armando , Zeng Hua Chun
Published: April 2020

The discovery of silica spheres by Werner Stöber and his team (known as Stöber silica) has been instrumental to many technological fields such as hollow materials research. Recent research endeavors on (physical and chemical) transformation of Stöber silica have specifically opened up a new horizon in this domain, especially in catalysis science and catalyst technology. Deliberate introduction of working spaces into Stöber silica via such transformations is regarded as a meaningful methodology toward fabrication of highly confined hollow nanostructures in the form of “reactor‐like nanocatalysts” or “catalyst‐like nanoreactors”. More importantly, advanced catalytic devices with well‐defined size, shape, composition, and hollowness could be obtained by these viable approaches. Concerning the further research, the present minireview gives an overview on recent advances about the synthesis and applications of hollow nanocatalysts derived from Stöber silica spheres. Firstly, we will provide the gist of current status of hollow materials research. Secondly, applicable methods for transformation of Stöber silica spheres to hollow nanostructures and hollow nanocatalysts will be elaborated. The stability and durability of SiO2‐based hollow constructs will also be elucidated. Subsequently, research snapshots of Stöber SiO2‐derived hollow nanostructures and their applicability mainly for catalytic purposes, from our research group and literature, will be discussed. Our personal perspectives on promising research opportunities and challenges in this field will also be given at the end.
Preparation of Long‐Lived States in a Multi‐Spin System by Using an Optimal Control Method
Authors: Wei Daxiu , Xin Jiaxiang , Hu Kairui , Yao Yefeng
Published: April 2020

The lifetime Ts of a long‐lived nuclear spin state (LLS) could be much longer than the longitudinal order T1. Many spin systems were used to produce long‐lived states, including two or more homonuclear spins that couple to each other. For multiple homonuclear spins with rather small chemical shift difference, normally it is difficult to selectively control the spins and then to prepare a LLS. Herein, we present a scheme that prepares different spin orders in a multi‐spin system by using optimal control and numerical calculation. By experimentally measuring the lifetime of the states, we find that for a three‐spin physical system, although there are many forms of state combinations with different spin orders, each component has its own lifetime.
Origin of common‐mode noise in two‐dimensional finite‐size circuit and reduction of the noise using a symmetric three‐line circuit
Authors: Jinno Souma , Kitora Shuji , Toki Hiroshi , Abe Masayuki
Published: April 2020

In this paper, we investigate common‐mode (CM) noise caused by a connection to a two‐dimensional finite‐size ground plane. Numerical calculations are conducted to visualize the time variation of potentials that leads to CM noise. A connection of the signal line to the ground plane, which is conventionally used in circuits, causes an imbalance in the circuit that makes the potential of the ground plane fluctuate, which results in CM noise. CM noise does not occur in a symmetric three‐line circuit because the potential of the middle line is always kept at 0 V. Furthermore, the middle line prevents an externally induced potential fluctuation of the ground plane from being converted to a normal‐mode voltage (i.e., CM noise).
Gender, feminism, and nation: Contributions of the socialist and post‐socialist worlds
Authors: Channell‐Justice Emily
Published: April 2020

This article situates feminist research and activism in the post‐socialist world. Focusing mainly on Ukraine and Russia, but drawing on research from around the region, this genealogy explores the unique contributions of feminist and gender‐based activism before, during, and after state socialism. It is organized around the tension between feminism and nationalism that has been present in Ukraine from the 19th century to the present day, and it asks how this tension has generated a vibrant feminist discourse despite backlash. The article highlights the overlap between feminist scholarship and activism, treating both as essential to the development of a regional feminism.
Cryptocurrency volatility forecasting: A Markov regime‐switching MIDAS approach
Authors: Ma Feng , Liang Chao , Ma Yuanhui , Wahab M.I.M.
Published: April 2020

The primary purpose of this paper is to investigate whether a novel Markov regime‐switching mixed‐data sampling (MRS‐MIADS) model we design can improve the prediction accuracy of the realized variance (RV) of Bitcoin. Moreover, to verify whether the importance of jumps for RV forecasting changes over time, we extend the standard MIDAS model to characterize two volatility regimes and introduce a jump‐driven time‐varying transition probability between the two regimes. Our results suggest that the proposed novel MRS‐MIDAS model exhibits statistically significant improvement for forecasting the RV of Bitcoin. In addition, we find that jump occurrences significantly increase the persistence of the high‐volatility regime and switch between high‐ and low‐volatility regimes. A wide range of checks confirm the robustness of our results. Finally, the proposed model shows significant improvement for 2‐week and 1‐month horizon forecasts.
Household debt, hypertension and depressive symptoms for older adults
Authors: Song Hongxun , Wang Ruoxi , Bishwajit Ghose , Xiong Jie , Feng Zhanchun , Fu Hang
Published: April 2020

Objectives

The Chinese household debt has been increasing rapidly in recent years because of the expansion of consumers' spending and mortgage. Its effects on individuals' mental and physical well‐being are poorly known. This study aims to examine the relationship of household debt with hypertension and depressive symptoms among the middle‐ and old‐aged population.

Methods

Nationally representative data were collected from China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study 2015. Logistic regression analysis and mediation analysis were used to estimate associations of household debt with the presence of hypertension and depressive symptoms. The Sobel test was used to assess the mediation effect of depressive symptoms in the association of household debt and hypertension.

Results

Among 12 274 subjects, those with high‐level household debt exhibited 12% increased odds of hypertension and double odds of depressive symptoms compared to low‐level household debtors. Household debt had a direct effect on hypertension and depressive symptoms and an indirect effect on hypertension via depressive symptoms.

Conclusions

The relationships between household debt, depressive symptoms, and hypertension form a society‐psychology‐body view that is worth considering in household, community and clinical settings in hypertension management among middle‐aged and elderly populations.
Triage options to manage high‐risk human papillomavirus‐positive women: A population‐based cross‐sectional study from rural China
Authors: Rezhake Remila , Chen Feng , Hu Shang‐Ying , Zhao Xue‐Lian , Zhang Xun , Cao Jian , Qiao You‐Lin , Zhao Fang‐Hui , Arbyn Marc
Published: April 2020

Improvement in managing HPV‐positive women is urgently needed. Based on a population‐based study which included 2112 women aged 49 to 69 from Shanxi, China, we aimed to evaluate the clinical performance of multiple triage strategies based on liquid‐based cytology (LBC), p16INK4a, viral load and partial genotyping, as a single or combined strategy for detecting cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2/3 or higher (CIN2+/CIN3+) in women who tested positive by Hybrid Capture 2 (HC2). Among 452 HC2‐positive women, the test positivity of LBC (ASC‐US+), p16INK4a, HPV16/18 and HPV16/18/31/33/45 were 39.6%, 38.5%, 18.0% and 40.0%, respectively. Compared to LBC (ASC‐US+) triage, a single triage strategies using p16INK4a or extended genotyping (SureX HPV16/18/31/33/45) achieved comparable sensitivity (relative sensitivity: 1.08, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.93‐1.26 and 0.96, 95% CI: 0.76‐1.22) and specificity (relative specificity: 1.05, 95% CI: 0.96‐1.14 and 1.02, 95% CI: 0.92‐1.14) for CIN3+. Viral load triage using a ≥50 RLU/CO cut‐point also yielded similar results with LBC (ASC‐US+). Among combined triage strategies, HPV16/18 genotyping with reflex p16INK4a showed higher sensitivity and slightly lower specificity than LBC (ASC‐US+) for CIN3+ detection, however, the differences were not statistically significant. Of note, after a negative result by p16INK4a or LBC among HPV16/18 negative women, the posttest probability of CIN3+ was lower than 1%. Our study suggested that p16INK4a, extended genotyping and increased viral load cut‐point could be promising alternatives to cytology triage. Combined triage algorithms of HPV16/18 with reflex p16INK4a or cytology, if negative, are associated with the substantial low posttest risk sufficient to release women to next screening round.
Fiber attenuated total reflection infrared spectroscopy of kidney tissue during live surgery
Authors: Sablinskas Valdas , Bandzeviciute Rimante , Velicka Martynas , Ceponkus Justinas , Urboniene Vidita , Jankevicius Feliksas , Laurinavičius Arvydas , Dasevičius Darius , Steiner Gerald
Published: April 2020

More than 90% of solid kidney tumors are cancerous and have to be treated by surgical resection where surgical outcomes and patient prognosis are dependent on the tumor discrimination. The development of alternative approaches based on a new generation of fiber attenuated total reflection (ATR) probes could aid tumor identification even under intrasurgical conditions. Herein, fiber ATR IR spectroscopy is employed to distinguish normal and cancerous kidney tissues. Freshly resected tissue samples from 34 patients are investigated under nearly native conditions. Spectral marker bands that allow a reliable discrimination between tumor and normal tissue are identified by a supervised classification algorithm. The absorbance values of the bands at 1025, 1155 and 1240 cm−1 assigned to glycogen and fructose 1,6‐bisphosphatase are used as the clearest markers for the tissue discrimination. Absorbance threshold values for tumor and normal tissue are determined by discriminant analysis. This new approach allows the surgeon to make a clinical diagnosis.
Race‐Based Stress in White Adults: Exploring the Role of White Racial Identity Status Attitudes and Type of Racial Events
Authors: Carter Robert T. , Roberson Katheryn , Johnson Veronica E.
Published: April 2020

The impact of racial experiences on Whites has been underresearched and has rarely been considered traumatic. To understand these experiences, it is important to consider variation in one's orientation to their racial group (i.e., racial identity) and the type of racial encounter. Using a White adult sample and hierarchical cluster analysis, the authors found that reactions to race‐based encounters were associated with varying levels of psychological distress and well‐being and racial identity statuses. Clinical implications are discussed.

El impacto de las experiencias raciales en personas blancas no ha sido suficientemente investigado y en raras ocasiones ha sido considerado traumático. Para comprender estas experiencias, es importante considerar la variación en la orientación de cada individuo hacia su grupo racial (es decir, la identidad racial) y el tipo de encuentro racial. Usando una muestra de personas adultas blancas y un análisis jerárquico de clústeres, los autores hallaron que las reacciones a los encuentros raciales estaban asociadas a niveles variables de malestar psicológico, así como de estados de bienestar e identidad racial.