bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
La competencia textual y mediática en el aula de ELE
Authors: Ulloa Saceda Marta , Tesch Bernd
Published: July 2019

Resumen: La habilidad de comprender y producir textos es una de las competencias básicas en la sociedad de la información y de la comunicación (OECD, 2000). Sin embargo, el concepto texto ha evolucionado adquiriendo una versatilidad que rebasa la concepción tradicional de texto escrito. Para superar este desfase al que la competencia lectora o las destrezas en la comprensión y/o expresión oral no llegan, se propone desde Alemania el término competencia textual y mediática[1]. La finalidad de esta comunicación es reflexionar sobre la importancia de esta nueva competencia y dotar al profesorado de herramientas en el tratamiento de la competencia textual en el aula de ELE. Para ello, presentaremos un modelo bidimensional de competencia textual y mediática: la que el alumnado debe adquirir y la competencia didáctica que el profesorado debe poseer.Palabras clave: texto, competencia textual y mediática, elaboración de tareas Abstract: The ability to understand and produce texts is one of the basic competences in the information and communication society (OECD, 2000). However, the concept text has evolved beyond the traditional conception of written text. In order to overcome this gap, a new competence, the textual and medial competence is proposed. The purpose of this communication is to reflect on the importance of this new competence and to provide the teaching staff with tools in the treatment of the textual competence in the classroom. For this we present a bidimensional model of textual and medial competence: the one that students must acquire and the didactic textual competence that teachers must have.Keywords: text, textual and medial competence, task design[1] En alemán, Text- und Medienkompetenz.
Un año de Spanish in a day. Resultados y retos futuros
Authors: Ayala Carrasco Provi , González Plasencia Yeray , Ramos Álvarez Antonio
Published: July 2019

Resumen: en este artículo se ofrecen los lineamientos básicos del proyecto colaborativo Spanish in a day, el primer concurso audiovisual para estudiantes de E/LE de todo el mundo en Internet. En primer lugar, se expone la fase de creación del certamen, atendiendo a las bases, los objetivos, las categorías y la evaluación del mismo. Posteriormente, se muestran las novedades de la segunda edición, poniendo especial énfasis en el concurso paralelo para menores de edad y en el desarrollo de un curso MOOC basado en los vídeos obtenidos en la primera edición. Finalmente, se presentan los resultados del proyecto, profundizando en tres aspectos: los índices de participación, la retroalimentación que se ha obtenido de los participantes y la creación de una película que acoge los vídeos de todos los concursantes.Palabras clave: concurso audiovisual, nuevas tecnologías, MOOC. Abstract: this paper aims to provide an overview of the collaborative project Spanish in a day, the first online video contest for Spanish FL learners worldwide. In the first place, we will describe the key elements when designing the contest (rules, goals, categories and assessment criteria). Subsequently, we will focus on the new features of the 2nd edition, in particular those dealing with the parallel contest for underage students and with the instructional design of a MOOC, based on selected videos of the 1st edition. Lastly, conclusions drawn from data analyses will be addressed in relation to the following aspects: student participation and feedback and the production of a documentary film featuring video clips from all contestants.Keywords: video contest, new technologies, MOOC.
CaELEjeros: el estudiante como etnógrafo para el desarrollo de la Competencia Comunicativa Intercultural
Authors: González Plasencia Yeray
Published: July 2019

Resumen: en este artículo se ofrece un enfoque para integrar la Competencia Comunicativa Intercultural en E/LE a través de prácticas etnográficas. El objetivo de la propuesta es que el estudiante elabore un video reportaje sobre un hecho cultural determinado, tomando como modelo textual el famoso programa Callejeros. La propuesta didáctica se organiza en cinco fases: aproximación, introducción, profundización, consolidación y coevaluación, en las que se alterna el trabajo individual, grupal y junto al profesor. Finalmente, se pone de manifiesto que esta metodología fomenta el aprendizaje autónomo e integral, puesto que promueve el desarrollo tanto de destrezas lingüísticas y comunicativas como afectivas, procedimentales y cognitivas. Una propuesta que incentiva la conciencia crítica del alumno en un marco altamente motivador.Palabras clave: competencia comunicativa intercultural, etnografía, cultura española, reportaje audiovisual. Abstract: this paper offers an approach to integrate Intercultural Communicative Competence into S/FL through ethnographic practices. The objective of the proposal is to produce an audiovisual report on a specific cultural fact, taking the famous Spanish programme Callejeros as a textual model. The didactic proposal is organized in five phases: approximation, introduction, deepening, consolidation and co-evaluation, in which the student works individually, in groups and in collaboration with the teacher. Finally, it is exposed that this methodology promotes autonomous and integral learning, given that it promotes the development of both linguistic and communicative skills as well as affective, procedural and cognitive strategies. A proposal that encourage the student's critical awareness in a highly motivating framework.Keywords: intercultural communicative competence, ethnography, Spanish culture, audiovisual report.
En un lugar del aula… De lo que le sucedió a don Quijote en una clase de E/LE
Authors: Souto Luz Celestina
Published: July 2019

Resumen: El presente trabajo tiene como objetivo mostrar una vía para la lectura de El ingenioso hidalgo don Quijote de la Mancha en el aula de E/LE. La propuesta se realizará a través de una selección de recursos y actividades sobre el clásico de Cervantes. Las preguntas desde las cuales se parte para el planteamiento son: ¿Qué es un clásico? ¿Por qué leer a Cervantes en la clase de E/LE? ¿Cómo leerlo? ¿Qué ventajas tiene El Quijote en el siglo xxi para quienes tienen el español como segunda lengua?Palabras Clave: Siglo de Oro, Quijote, clase de E/LE, literatura Abstract: The present work aims to show a way to read El ingenioso hidalgo don Quijote de la Mancha in the E/LE class. The proposal is made through a selection of resources and activities about Cervantes. The questions we ask are: what is a classic? Why read Cervantes in E/LE class? How to read it? What are advantages of  El Quijote in the 21st century for those who have Spanish as a second language?Keywords: Spanish Golden Age, Quixote, E/LE class, literature
Interacción y colaboración en el aula de E/LE a través de la web social
Authors: Concheiro Coello Pilar
Published: July 2019

Resumen: Este artículo se centra en el uso de redes sociales como espacios de aprendizaje digital donde los estudiantes pueden interactuar y colaborar en la lengua meta. Se analizarán tareas y proyectos que utilizan aplicaciones de la web social para promover un aprendizaje motivador y significativo.Palabras clave: redes sociales, colaboración, interacción, aprendizaje significativo. Abstract: This article analyzes the application of social networks as spaces of digital learning where students can interact and collaborate in the target language. It includes tasks and projects that make use of social web applications to promote motivating and meaningful learning.Keywords: Social networks, collaboration, interaction, meaningful learning.
Creatividad en la enseñanza de español para negocios
Authors: Montañez Mesas Marta Pilar
Published: July 2019

Resumen: La creatividad forma parte del aprendizaje, especialmente en ELE, también para fines específicos como español para los negocios. El proceso creativo pone orden en los nuevos conocimientos o contenidos y, al mismo tiempo, el resultado genera satisfacción en el aprendiz. En otras palabras, aprendemos mejor cuando la tarea nos interesa o nos emociona. Existen varios tipos de tareas creativas, pero podrían agruparse en dos: algunas de ellas requieren el manejo de programas informáticos y otras son de tipo retórico o literario. En las tareas que aquí se proponen, el aprendiz es el protagonista de su aprendizaje y ha de crear de la nada un texto original e inédito. Finalmente, la creatividad es útil pero tiene que adaptarse a cada grupo específico. Palabras clave: creatividad, ELE, español para fines específicos, español para los negocios, B1-B2 Abstract: Creativity is part of learning, especially in SFL, also in Spanish for Specific Purposes like Spanish for business. Creative process put order in new knowledge or contents and, at the same time, the results make the student happy. In other words, we learn better when we are interested in the task or it produces us emotions. In general, there are two types of creativity tasks: some of them need computer programs and others are rhetorical or literary. In the tasks that are proposes here the student is the protagonist of his learning and he has to create of nothing some original and unpublished text. Finally, creativity is useful but it has been adapted to the specific group. Key words: creativity, SFL, Spanish for Specific Purposes, Spanish for business, B1-B2
El enfoque del foco en la forma y las situaciones de movimiento en el aula de ASL: Actividades de interpretación y producción.
Authors: Muñoz Carrasco Meritxell
Published: July 2019

Las explicaciones que el aprendiente de español recibe ante la pregunta de por qué no se puede decir escalé arriba de la montaña, corrí adentro de la casa (de afuera hacia adentro) o gateé afuera de la habitación (de dentro a afuera) son que esos verbos no funcionan así en español, que los nativos no lo dicen así o que no suena bien así. Todas ellas son explicaciones inoperativas, frustrantes y que no conducen a que el input llegue a convertirse en intake. En una primera parte teórica, este artículo describe cómo las lenguas expresan las situaciones de movimiento y, en una segunda parte práctica, sugiere actividades, tanto de interpretación como de producción, de input estructurado desde el enfoque de foco en la forma para llevar estas estructuras lingüísticas al aula de ASL.
Spider-Verse: El diseño gráfico en la narrativa cinematográfica
Authors: Azorín Puche José Miguel
Published: July 2019

Análisis de cómo la última película de animación del personaje de Spiderman usa el diseño gráfico y la ilustración como herramienta narrativa.
BioDinamica: a toolkit for analyses of biodiversity and biogeography on the Dinamica-EGO modelling platform
Authors: Oliveira Ubirajara , Soares-Filho Britaldo , Leitão Rômulo Fernandes Machado , Rodrigues Hermann O.
Published: July 2019

Biogeography and macroecology are at the heart of the debate on ecology and evolution. We have developed the BioDinamica package, a suite of user-friendly graphical programs for analysing spatial patterns of biogeography and macroecology. BioDinamica includes analyses of beta-diversity, species richness, endemicity, phylo-diversity, species distribution models, predictive models of biodiversity patterns, and several tools for spatial biodiversity analysis. BioDinamica consists of a sub-library of Dinamica-EGO operators developed by integrating EGO native functions with R scripts. The BioDinamica operators can be assembled to create complex analytical and simulation models through the EGO graphical programming interface. In addition, we make available “Wizard” tutorials for end users. BioDinamica can be downloaded free of charge from the Dinamica EGO submodel store. The tools made available in BioDinamica not only facilitate complex biodiversity analyses, they also help develop state-of-the-art spatial models for biogeography and macroecology studies.
Factors Affecting Sustainability of Donor Funded Food Security Projects in Tharaka South Sub-County, Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya
Authors: Anita M. Mutegi , Geofrey K. Gathungu , Anne Sande
Published: July 2019

Project activities have been used to solve food insecurity problems. However, despite efforts made by the Government and other development partners to implement food security projects in areas of need project activities collapse after the withdrawal of support by donors limiting sustainability these projects. Therefore, this study sought to fill this gap by investigating factors which affect sustainability of donor funded food security projects in Tharaka South Sub-County, Tharaka Nithi County using there source based and stakeholder theories. The study was exploratory and was executed through a descriptive survey and targeted donor funded food security projects which included Njaa Marufuku, National Agriculture Sector Extension Policy, Food for Asset and Mount Kenya East Pilot Project for Natural Resource Management (MKEPP). The study used both simple random and purposive sampling methods in a population of 400 community project beneficiaries, Social Development Officer, project officers and opinion leaders and a sample of 238 respondents was adopted. Questionnaires with both closed ended and open-ended questions were used as the main research instruments to solicit information and the data obtained was coded and subjected to analysis using both descriptive and inferential statistics. Out of sample of 238, 227 respondents filled in and submitted the questionnaires making a response rate of 95% respectively. It was observed that community involvement and sustainability of donor funded food security projects correlated positively and significantly (r=0.548, p=0.000); Institution capacity and sustainability of donor funded food security projects correlated positively and significantly (r=0.521, p=0.000) and roles of donors and sustainability of donor funded food security projects correlated positively (r=0.534, p=0.000). Finally, the study established that donors play a very important role in ensuring sustainability of donor funded food security projects.
Vegetative Propagation of Balanites aegyptiaca (L.) Del. by Air Layering under Sahelian Climate in Niger
Authors: Habou Maman Kamal Abdou , Rabiou Habou , Abdou Laouali , Mamoudou Boubacar Moussa , Yandou` Ismaël Bio , Mahamane Ali
Published: July 2019

Balanites aegyptiaca (L.) Del. is a fruit species from the Sahelian and Sudano-sahelian zones, highly appreciated by the population. It provides a source of income for the rural population and its various parts are used for human and animal food, handicrafts and traditional medicine. However, the lack of data on propagation techniques of the species is a significant limitation to its domestication. This study aims to evaluate the vegetative propagation capacity of Balanites aegyptiaca by air layering. The trials were conducted in the Arboretum of Sahara Sahel Foods in Zinder, Niger. The layers were placed on orthotropic branches. The variables selected were the diameter class (1-2 cm, 2-3 cm and 3-4 cm) and the substrates (sand+manure, sand+sawdust and sand). A total of 116 layers were made. The results show that 93.1% of the layers have taken root two months after realization. The diameter classes and the three substrates have no significant influence on the number of roots. In contrast, root length varied significantly with substrates (P = 0.000) and branch diameter classes (P = 0.031). As for the diameter of the newly formed roots, a significant difference was observed between the diameter classes and the substrates have no significant effect on this parameter. One month after weaning of layers, an average survival rate of 68.5% was obtained. The seedlings of the diameter class 2-3 cm have the highest survival rate (83.1%). These results suggest that it is possible to produce Balanites aegyptiaca plants by air layering, and could contribute to the development of strategies adapted to its domestication.
Growth Status and Parasitic Fauna of Clarias gariepinus Collected from Ogbese River and Owena River, South-West Nigeria
Authors: Abidemi-Iromini A. O. , Adelegan R. A.
Published: July 2019

Aims: To determine condition status and identify parasitic fauna in intestine, gills and skins of Clarias gariepinus collected from two natural waters: Ogbese River (River A) (Longitude 5°26'E' and Latitude 6°43'N), and Owena River (River B) (Longitude 5.03E and Latitude 7.03N) in Ondo state, Nigeria respectively.

Study Design: Laboratory-experimental design was used in this study.

Place and Duration of Study: 120 live C. gariepinus African Mud Catfish were collected by the assistance of fishermen using cast net during the wet season during April to July 2016 from the two natural water bodies (Ogbese River and Owena River).

Methidology: Fish were transported live to the laboratory for examinations. Length (cm) and weight (g) measurement of fish were determined. Condition factor (K), isometric value (b) and regression coefficient were determined. Fish samples were examined using electronic Microscope (x 400 Mag.) by dissecting fish to remove organs (Intestines, gills and skins) for parasites occurrence (s). Descriptive and analytical statistics were used to analyse the data obtained.

Results: The condition factor for all C. gariepinus samples collected from both Rivers were less than one (<1), which indicated that the health status of the fish is biased, and the environment is not conducive. The parasitic examination carried out revealed that seventy-eight (65%) C. gariepinus fish samples were infested; while 42 (35%) of fish samples showed no parasite infestation. A total of Ninety-six (96) individual parasites were recovered from River A while a total of two hundred and twelve (212) individual parasites were recovered from River B. A total of eight (8) different parasites species were recovered while their percentage of occurrence was recorded. These include Ambiphrya spp. (4.17%), Camallanus spp. (6.25%; 2.83%), Capillaria spp. (16.98%), Chilodonella spp. (14.58%), Dactylogyrus spp. (64.58%; 5.66%), Diphyllobothrium latum (10.42%; 4.72%), Gyrodactylus spp. (61.32%) and Protoopalina symphysodonis (8.49%).

Conclusion: The water bodies need to be protected against further pollutants to prevent disease condition for the benefit of aquatic organisms and public health.
Natural and Ecological Succession in an Urban Fragment of the Atlantic Forest in Pernambuco, Brazil
Authors: Carnaúba Amanda Ferreira , Ralph Lidiana Nayara , Leão Shyrlaine Lilian Moura , Morais Yasmim Yathiara Gomes Araújo , Feliciano Ana Lícia Patriota
Published: July 2019

The development of studies on natural regeneration in fragments of the Atlantic Forest assists to evaluate the regenerative power of forests against natural and anthropic disturbances. So, the objective of the work was to analyze the structure of the regenerative component and ecological succession of arboreal species in an urban fragment of Atlantic Forest. The study was undertaken in Parque Estadual Dois Irmãos (PEDI), in Recife, Pernambuco, in which 10 subplots of 1 m x 25 m (25 m²) each was installed. As inclusion criterion, the regenerating individuals of arboreal species should have a height equal to or greater than one meter and circumference at the height of the chest (CAP 1.30 m) inferior to 15 cm. The individuals were classified as the ecological groups origin (native or exotic species) and were calculated via phytosociological parameters such as heights classes for regenerating individuals and diversity index. For data analysis Mata Nativa version 4.05 was used. The families that presented the highest number of species were: Myrtaceae and Fabaceae. It was observed that 15% of the species belong to the pioneer group, while 48% belonged to the initial secondary group, and 22% to the late secondary group. The distribution of individuals of the species Hirtella racemosa and Chamaecrista ensiformis in the different size and relative density classes allow us to affirm that these species act directly in the process of ecological succession. The fragment is in the initial secondary stage of succession.
Posterior Thigh Isometric Force Measurement with Extended Knee
Authors: Santos Darío , Morales Isabel , Mattiozzi Andrea , Peláez Arleth , Pérez Sabrina , Fernández Agustín , Vignoli Matías , Domínguez Jorge , Battistin Mario , Barboza Rodrigo , Martínez Camilo , Stefanelli Lucia , González Sofía , Simini Franco
Published: July 2019

Aims: The establishment of normal values for the hamstring flexibility and isometric posterior thigh force of healthy adults performing standard motor task consisting of acting against a rubber band in the supine position.

Study Design: Observation and ecological.

Place and Duration of Study: During a Sports Medicine three days event (Congreso DePunta) in Uruguay, September 2018.

Methodology: Random samples of 21 men and 16 women practicing different sport activities were asked to have their biomechanics properties measured by DINABANG, which is a novel clinical instrument to guide lower limb rehabilitation. DINABANG measures the force signal during the following specific motor task: in supine position, consists of hip flexion with fully extended knee and with malleolus attached to a rubber band held by the Physical Therapist behind the head of the person, until further effort would lift the person from the mat.

Results: Normal values for body weight specific peak force during isometric effort with extended limb in supine position and malleolus strap tied to an elastic band are (mean ± SD) 1.7 ± 0.4 / 1.9 ± 0.5 N•Kg-1 for men and 2.1 ± 0.5 / 2.3 ± 0.5 N•Kg-1 for women and weak/strong limb respectively. The volunteer-defined flexibility angles of the healthy young populations (21 men and 16 women) were found to be 67.5° ± 6.5° and 77.5°± 9.7° merging the distributions of both lower limbs, strong and weak.

Conclusion: These values will be included in subsequent versions of DINABANG to be used in clinical practice to help avoiding muscle strains by quantifying efforts during rehabilitation under Physical Therapist monitoring. DINABANG allows to safely perform a motor task in the medical office. It can be said that DINABANG is compatible with an ecological approach to rehabilitation.
Role of Aspergillus Galactomannan Antigen Test for the Screening of Invasive Aspergillosis in Patients with Hematological Malignancies
Authors: Salem Eman H. , Elbrolosy Asmaa M. , Awad Samah M. , Alhassanin Suzan A. , Aldesoky Amira I. , Gohar Suzy F. , Solimani Shaimaa S.
Published: July 2019

Background: Invasive aspergillosis (IA) is a leading cause of death among immunocompromised patients, particularly those with hematological malignancies. The use of galactomannan (GM) antigen as a biological marker for screening of IA in high-risk patients is attractive and non-invasive tool that detect evidence of IA prior to the appearance of clinical manifestations.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare the diagnostic value of the conventional blood culture technique to the serological detection of GM antigen using ELISA for screening of IA in neutropenic patients with hematological malignancies.

Methods: Forty patients with haematological malignancies from those admitted to the Clinical Oncology Department of Menoufia University Hospitals (MUH) were enrolled and classified to have either proven (5/40; 12.5%), probable (10/40; 25%) or possible (25/40; 62.5%) invasive aspergillosis based on the clinical criteria provided by the European Organization for research and treatment of Cancer (EORTC) and Mycoses Study Group (MSG). Blood samples were collected from all participants and subjected to conventional blood culture for isolation and identification of Aspergillus spp. ELISA technique was applied for serological detection of GM antigen in the patients’ serum samples.

Results: The sensitivity, specificity, PPV(positive predictive value)  and NPV (negative predictive value of GM antigen ELISA testing were 100%, 74%, 36% and 100% respectively for both proven and probable cases. On applying the principle of test in series (the patient is positive if positive in both culture and the GM test), the results were improved to 100% sensitivity, 100% specificity, 100% PPV, 100% NPV and 100% accuracy. Galactomannan antigen testing proved excellent sensitivity (80%) compared to other clinical features and radiological criteria for diagnosis of probable aspergillosis and proved to be a good negative test.

Conclusion: With conjunction of clinical and radiological signs, Aspergillus GM test can assist physicians in the of diagnosis of IA in patients with hematological malignancies to allow initiation of effective antifungal therapy which is ultimately important in high-risk populations.
The stigma of MAT: Can you protect patients from discrimination?
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: July 2019

In “Intervention stigma: How medication‐assisted treatment marginalizes patients and providers,” a researcher writes about one of the biggest paradoxes facing those treating and being treated for opioid use disorders (OUDs): the fact that the “gold standard” for treatment — methadone and buprenorphine — subjects both providers and patients to stigma, both within and outside addiction treatment communities.
LAC and RTI: Eliminate Medicaid prior auth for bupe
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: July 2019

Since April 2018, Medicare limited utilization management — most often done via prior authorization requirements — for buprenorphine to treat opioid use disorder (OUD). In response, virtually all plans that covered this treatment removed prior authorization requirements. Medicaid plans should do the same, according to RTI, writing in the July 9 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA).
Multifunctional Mechanical Metamaterials Based on Triply Periodic Minimal Surface Lattices
Authors: Al-Ketan Oraib , Abu Al-Rub Rashid K.
Published: July 2019

In nature, cellular materials exhibit enhanced multifunctionalities driven mainly by their sophisticated topologies and length scales. These natural systems have inspired the development and expansion of synthetic architected materials for revolutionary applications. Consequently, both the design and synthesis techniques gained considerable attention and have massively progressed over the last few decades. Such materials with topology‐controlled properties are commonly known as “metamaterials.” Architected materials with topologies based on triply periodic minimal surfaces (TPMS) which are of particular interest have attracted much attention recently due to their mathematically controlled fascinating topologies and their exhibited physical and mechanical properties. Herein, the design, synthesis, and use of TPMS in the field of metamaterials and metacomposites for several applications are focused upon. The design process to create TPMS‐based 3D lattices is summarized and the different manufacturing processes used to fabricate these lattices are highlighted. Herein, the material–topology–mechanical properties relationship of different TPMS‐based lattices that are investigated in the literature is discussed. A further objective is to highlight the applications where TPMS‐based lattices or composites can be efficiently used as well as the research areas to be explored.
Printing Flexible and Hybrid Electronics for Human Skin and Eye‐Interfaced Health Monitoring Systems
Authors: Kim Kyunghun , Kim Bongjoong , Lee Chi Hwan
Published: July 2019

Advances in printing materials and techniques for flexible and hybrid electronics in the domain of connected healthcare have enabled rapid development of innovative body‐interfaced health monitoring systems at a tremendous pace. Thin, flexible, and stretchable biosensors that are printed on a biocompatible soft substrate provide the ability to noninvasively and unobtrusively integrate with the human body for continuous monitoring and early detection of diseases and other conditions affecting health and well being. Hybrid integration of such biosensors with extremely well‐established silicon‐based microcircuit chips offers a viable route for in‐sensor data processing and wireless transmission in many medical and clinical settings. Here, a set of advanced and hybrid printing techniques is summarized, covering diverse aspects ranging from active electronic materials to process capability, for their use in human skin and eye‐interfaced health monitoring systems with different levels of complexity. Essential components of the devices, including constituent biomaterials, structural layouts, assembly methods, and power and data processing configurations, are outlined and discussed in a categorized manner tailored to specific clinical needs. Perspectives on the benefits and challenges of these systems in basic and applied biomedical research are presented and discussed.
Electrocatalytic Reduction of Gaseous CO2 to CO on Sn/Cu‐Nanofiber‐Based Gas Diffusion Electrodes
Authors: Ju Wenbo , Jiang Fuze , Ma Huan , Pan Zhengyuan , Zhao Yi‐Bo , Pagani Francesco , Rentsch Daniel , Wang Jing , Battaglia Corsin
Published: July 2019

Earth‐abundant Sn/Cu catalysts are highly selective for the electrocatalytic reduction of CO2 to CO in aqueous electrolytes. However, CO2 mass transport limitations, resulting from the low solubility of CO2 in water, so far limit the CO partial current density for Sn/Cu catalysts to about 10 mA cm−2. Here, a freestanding gas diffusion electrode design based on Sn‐decorated Cu‐coated electrospun polyvinylidene fluoride nanofibers is demonstrated. The use of gaseous CO2 as a feedstock alleviates mass transport limitations, resulting in high CO partial current densities above 100 mA cm−2, while maintaining high CO faradaic efficiencies above 80%. These results represent an important step toward an economically viable pathway to CO2 reduction.
Comparative analysis of the preference of producers and processors for domestic rice production contracts in Benin
Authors: Codjo Ogoudélé S. , Acclassato Denis , Fiamohe Rose , Kpenavoun Sylvain , Biaou Gauthier
Published: July 2019

This study aims to analyze the factors that influence the preference of producers and processors for paddy production contracts in Benin. Unlike previous research, this study estimates a global model using pooled data of producers and processors. In addition, it compares producers’ willingness to accept contracts’ attributes to processors willingness to pay for the same attributes. Data were collected in Benin from 300 producers and 140 processors of rice selected randomly. An estimation of the conditional logit model indicates that producers prefer contracts specifying cash payment, prefinancing, and quality agreement. Processors, on the other hand, prefer contracts specifying technical assistance for both harvest and all the production activities, and quality agreements. The latent class logit model shows that there is heterogeneity among the preferences of both producers and processors across the classes. However, producers prefer cash payment and processors assistance for harvesting across all the classes. This suggests that cash payment and assistance for harvesting are pivotal for contract selection by producers and processors, respectively. Producers are willing to accept a lower price for their paddy (reduction of 25.86 and 6.64 FCFA/kg) in exchange for specifying a cash payment mechanism and prefinancing in the contract. Processors are willing to pay an additional amount of 5.58 CFA/kg of paddy to secure good quality rice.
Suicide and drug‐related mortality following occupational injury
Authors: Applebaum Katie M. , Asfaw Abay , O'Leary Paul K. , Busey Andrew , Tripodis Yorghos , Boden Leslie I.
Published: July 2019

Background

Drug overdoses and suicides have been rising since 2000 and are major contributors to a 3‐year decline in US life expectancy. Studies suggest that injured workers have elevated rates of depression and opioid use, but no studies have measured excess mortality related to these risks.

Materials and methods

We linked New Mexico workers' compensation data for 100 806 workers injured in 1994 through 2000 with Social Security Administration earnings and mortality data through 2013 and National Death Index cause of death data. We then estimated the association between receiving lost‐time workers' compensation benefits and mortality hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) based on Fine and Gray cause‐specific subdistribution hazards for common causes of death and for drug‐related, suicide, and alcohol‐related mortality.

Results

There was almost a 3‐fold increase in combined drug‐related and suicide mortality hazard among women (HR = 2.63, 95% CI = 1.91‐3.64) and a substantial increase among men (HR = 1.42, 95% CI = 1.13‐1.79). Circulatory disease mortality hazard was elevated for men (HR = 1.25, 95% CI = 1.05‐1.50).

Conclusion

Workplace injuries severe enough to require more than a week off work may impair workers' long‐term health and well‐being. Drug‐related deaths and suicides may be important contributors to the long‐term excess mortality of injured workers. Improved workplace conditions, improved pain treatment, better treatment of substance use disorders, and treatment of postinjury depression may substantially reduce mortality consequent to workplace injuries.
Meat eating in wild hamadryas baboons: Opportunistic trade‐offs between insects and vertebrates
Authors: Schreier Amy L. , Schlaht Renate M. , Swedell Larissa
Published: July 2019

The consumption of meat may provide herbivorous animals with important nutrients that are scarce in their plant‐based diet. Seasonal variation in plant food availability has been suggested to motivate dietary flexibility in a range of species and thus primates may seek more prey when key plant resources are unavailable. Alternatively, prey encounter rate may drive meat eating. Here we investigate patterns of meat eating in hamadryas baboons (Papio hamadryas) at Filoha, Awash National Park, Ethiopia. The Filoha baboons rely largely on doum palm fruit (Hyphaene thebaica), which are available most months of the year, and the young leaves of Acacia senegal, which are more abundant during the wet season. We hypothesized that the baboons would consume more meat when H. thebaica and A. senegal were less available, which we tested by comparing meat eating and consumption of these plant food species from March 2005 through February 2006. Our results reveal a high rate of vertebrate meat eating at Filoha (0.028/hour of observation) compared with other hamadryas sites. We found no relationship, however, between meat eating (either insect or vertebrate) and either rainfall or consumption of H. thebaica or A. senegal, indicating that availability of preferred plant resources does not drive meat consumption. Vertebrate consumption and time spent feeding were significantly negatively associated; there was no relationship, however, between the consumption of animal matter and either home range size or daily path length. Vertebrate and insect consumption alternated throughout the year such that the baboons maintained a small amount of animal matter in their diet year‐round. Our results suggest that the baboons do not often actively seek animal matter, but consume it opportunistically, with the presence of locust and dragonfly swarms driving insect consumption, and both prey availability and the availability of feeding time shaping vertebrate predation.
High‐resolution diffusion‐weighted imaging identifies ischemic lesions in a majority of transient ischemic attack patients
Authors: Hotter Benjamin , Galinovic Ivana , Kunze Claudia , Brunecker Peter , Jungehulsing Gerhard J. , Villringer Arno , Endres Matthias , Villringer Kersten , Fiebach Jochen B.
Published: July 2019

Transient ischemic attack (TIA) is defined as focal neurological deficit caused by ischemia resolving within 24 hours. In a secondary analysis of a large monocentric cohort of 446 TIA patients, we explored the frequency and determinants of diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) lesions on high‐resolution magnetic resonance imaging. Overall, 240 (54%) of all TIA patients presented with DWI lesions. These patients had higher National Institute of Health Stroke Scale and ABCD2 scores and presented more frequently with vessel occlusion and perfusion deficits, but had similar functional outcome at 3 months. Taken together, high‐resolution DWI provides evidence of ischemic brain injury in the majority of TIA patients. ANN NEUROL 2019;86:452–457
A Promising Carbon/g‐C3N4 Composite Negative Electrode for a Long‐Life Sodium‐Ion Battery
Authors: Weng Guo‐Ming , Xie Yu , Wang Hang , Karpovich Christopher , Lipton Jason , Zhu Junqing , Kong Jaemin , Pfefferle Lisa D. , Taylor André D.
Published: July 2019

2D graphitic carbon nitride (g‐C3N4) nanosheets are a promising negative electrode candidate for sodium‐ion batteries (NIBs) owing to its easy scalability, low cost, chemical stability, and potentially high rate capability. However, intrinsic g‐C3N4 exhibits poor electronic conductivity, low reversible Na‐storage capacity, and insufficient cyclability. DFT calculations suggest that this could be due to a large Na+ ion diffusion barrier in the innate g‐C3N4 nanosheet. A facile one‐pot heating of a mixture of low‐cost urea and asphalt is strategically applied to yield stacked multilayer C/g‐C3N4 composites with improved Na‐storage capacity (about 2 times higher than that of g‐C3N4, up to 254 mAh g−1), rate capability, and cyclability. A C/g‐C3N4 sodium‐ion full cell (in which sodium rhodizonate dibasic is used as the positive electrode) demonstrates high Coulombic efficiency (ca. 99.8 %) and a negligible capacity fading over 14 000 cycles at 1 A g−1.
Squalene from Fish Livers Extracted by Ultrasound‐Assisted Direct In Situ Saponification: Purification and Molecular Characteristics
Authors: Ali Ali Muhammed Moula , Bavisetty Sri Charan Bindu , Prodpran Thummanoon , Benjakul Soottawat
Published: July 2019

An ultrasound‐assisted direct in situ saponification (U‐DS) process was developed to extract unsaponifiable matter (rich in squalene) from the livers of four fish species, sea bass, skipjack tuna, gray bamboo shark, and spot‐tail shark. The conventional solvent extraction method was used for comparison. Box–Behnken experimental design (BBD) was adopted to optimize the independent variables including the biomass/methanol ratio (1:3 to 1:9 w/v), 50% KOH volume (1–12 mL), and sonication time (0–30 min) over the unsaponifiable yield. With the conventional process, the yield of squalene was 0.10 ± 0.02 to 5.52 ± 0.06 g (100 g)−1, whereas the U‐DS process rendered the yield of 0.13 ± 0.03 to 6.86 ± 0.05 g (100 g)−1, depending on the fish species. After extraction, squalene was further concentrated (purity ≥60%) from all fish species via fractional crystallization (yield of squalene concentrate ranged from 48.35% to 74.49%) and purified using a silica gel column with a maximum recovery up to 98%. For all the fractions, components were examined using thin layer chromatography (TLC). Squalene was qualitatively and quantitatively analyzed using reversed‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography (RP‐HPLC). Entire extraction processes yielded squalene with a purity of ≥94%. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis confirmed the native structure of squalene with six nonconjugated bonds, suggesting no degradation of squalene taken place during the U‐DS process. Thus, the U‐DS process along with fractionation and purification could be used for recovering the squalene from fish livers.
Two‐component modified polyurethane sealant for insulating glass: Design, preparation, and application
Authors: Li Wan , Liu Xingjiang , Wu Jinbi , Wu Linzhi , Sun Ailing , Wei Liuhe
Published: July 2019

A new two‐component modified polyurethane (PU) sealant was designed and synthesized for insulating glass. This sealant was designed based on a crosslinked reaction between a p‐chlorophenol‐blocked PU pre‐polymer (Pre‐polymer 2) in Component A and a poly‐functional hyperbranched polyamine polymer (polyamide resin 300#) in Component B. During the synthesis of Pre‐polymer 2, Fourier transform infrared spectral analysis was used to track the process, and the optimal reaction time and temperature were 1.5 h and 80 °C, in the presence of 4, 4′‐diphenylmethane diisocyanate (MDI). Different curing agents also used as deblocking agents were screened and it was found that polyamide resin 300# was a good candidate for the curing reaction. In addition, the low‐temperature curing rate was also improved by using dibutyltin dilaurate (DBTDL) and organobentonite together as a composite catalyst. Finally, the prepared two‐component modified PU sealant for insulating glass was successfully used in an assembly line with good performance. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 48219.
Development of polymorphic simple sequence repeat markers in Huperzia serrata (Lycopodiaceae)
Authors: Guo Bin , Ren Jing‐yu , He Mei‐na , Yao Kai , Wang Tian‐shu , Wang Li‐qing , Liu Xin , He Wei , Fu Yan‐ping , Wang De‐li , Wei Ya‐hui
Published: July 2019

Premise

The natural population size of Huperzia serrata (Lycopodiaceae) has dramatically decreased and the species has become endangered due to overexploitation. Here, we developed simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers for H. serrata to survey both its genetic diversity and population structure.

Methods and Results

Based on 177 individuals, 120 SSR primer pairs were developed and optimized from five regions of the H. serrata transcriptomic data. Of these primer pairs, 20 were successfully amplified and 10 showed obvious polymorphism. These polymorphic loci were investigated to study the genetic diversity of H. serrata. Two to 11 alleles per locus were identified, the level of observed heterozygosity ranged from 0.00 to 1.00, and the level of expected heterozygosity ranged from 0.19 to 0.79. All loci were successfully amplified in H. crispata, H. sutchueniana, and H. selago.

Conclusions

The 10 polymorphic primer pairs developed here will be valuable for studies of the endangered H. serrata and other related species.
Modelling dolphin distribution within an Important Marine Mammal Area in Greece to support spatial management planning
Authors: Bonizzoni Silvia , Furey Nathan B. , Santostasi Nina Luisa , Eddy Lavinia , Valavanis Vasilis D. , Bearzi Giovanni
Published: July 2019

Understanding marine mammal distributions is essential for conservation, as it can help identify critical habitat where management action can be taken. The semi‐enclosed Gulf of Corinth, Greece, has been identified as an Important Marine Mammal Area by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Marine Mammal Protected Areas Task Force, based on the regular occurrence of odontocete populations. A 7‐year (2011–17) dataset of boat‐based surveys was used to model and predict the distribution of striped dolphins,Stenella coeruleoalba, common dolphins,Delphinus delphis, and common bottlenose dolphins,Tursiops truncatus, in the entire Gulf (2400 km2).

Multiple geographic, bathymetric, oceanographic, and anthropogenic variables were incorporated in a combined generalized additive model and generalized estimation equation (GAM‐GEE) framework to describe dolphin occurrence and produce distribution maps.

Modelling indicated that striped and common dolphins prefer deep waters (>300 m) in the central and southern part of the Gulf, whereas bottlenose dolphins prefer shallow waters (<300 m) and areas close to fish farms along the northern–central shore.

Model‐based maps of the predicted distribution identified a preferred habitat encompassing most of the Gulf, also revealing: (i) hot spots of dolphin distribution covering about 40% of the Gulf's surface; (ii) an almost complete overlap of striped and common dolphin distribution, consistent with the hypothesis that common dolphins modified their habitat preferences to live in mixed species groups with striped dolphins; (iii) a clear partitioning of striped/common and bottlenose dolphin habitat; and (iv) the important role played by fish farms for bottlenose dolphins, consistent with studies conducted elsewhere in Greece.

Evidence provided by this study calls for area‐specific and species‐specific management measures to mitigate anthropogenic impacts.
Serine hydroxymethyltransferase from the silkworm Bombyx mori: Identification, distribution, and biochemical characterization
Authors: Haque Mohammad R. , Hirowatari Aiko , Nai Nonoko , Furuya Shigeki , Yamamoto Kohji
Published: July 2019

Serine hydroxymethyltransferase (SHMT) catalyzes the interconversion of serine and tetrahydrofolate (THF) to glycine and methylenetetrahydrofolate. cDNA encoding Bombyx mori SHMT (bmSHMT) was cloned and sequenced. The deduced amino acid sequence consisted of 465 amino acids and was found to share homology with other SHMTs. Recombinant bmSHMT was overexpressed in Escherichia coli and purified to homogeneity. The enzyme showed optimum activity at pH 3.0 and 30°C and was stable under acidic conditions. The Km and kcat/Km values for THF in the presence of Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADP+) were 0.055 mM and 0.081 mM−1 s−1, respectively, whereas those toward NADP+ were 0.16 mM and 0.018 mM−1 s−1 and toward l‐serine were 1.8 mM and 0.0022 mM−1 s−1, respectively. Mutagenesis experiments revealed that His119, His132, and His135 are important for enzymatic activity. Our results provide insight into the roles and regulation mechanism of one‐carbon metabolism in the silkworm B. mori.
Inaction inertia in retirement saving
Authors: Krijnen Job M.T. , Zeelenberg Marcel , Breugelmans Seger M. , van Putten Marijke
Published: July 2019

In retirement saving, many people miss out on early opportunities to save and subsequently fail to take adequate actions for a long time thereafter. We examined whether these two observations—the initial failure to act and the subsequent inertia—could be related through the phenomenon of inaction inertia. In Experiment 1 (N = 180), participants were less likely to save for retirement when the difference in annual return between the current opportunity and the missed opportunity was large versus small. In Experiment 2 (N = 180), participants were less likely to start saving for retirement when reminded of a missed opportunity 10 years ago versus 1 year ago. These data constitute the first demonstration of inaction inertia in retirement saving: People's reluctance to act on attractive saving opportunities may be induced by their previous inaction. In Experiment 3 (N = 340) and Experiment 4 (N = 628), we find that the observed inertia is the product of a tendency to underestimate exponential growth combined with a focus on past opportunities. Building on this mechanism, Experiment 5 (N = 916) provided evidence for a potential remedy; the inaction inertia effect completely disappeared when focus was shifted from required contributions to future outcomes.