bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental research on bolted joint strength and dispersion in steel lattice transmission tower legs under low temperatures (−20°C to −45°C)
Authors: An Liqiang , Jiang Wenqiang , Zhang Haiwei , Wu Jiong
Published: November 2019

Cold regions with subzero temperatures (−20°C to −45°C) have important impacts on the mechanical properties of structural steel used in lattice steel towers of overhead transmission line systems. The results from regular material tests are not appropriate for the accurate analysis of joint strength in cold weather conditions. This paper presents the tensile test results of 18 coupons of steel material and eight groups (18 specimens per group) of bolted joints with Q345 and Q420 steel under temperatures of 20°C, −20°C, and −45°C. The results show that the yield‐to‐ultimate strength ratio of the joints under low temperature conditions is beyond the range of 0.60 to 0.75 for Q420 structural steel. Suggestions are made on how to improve the accuracy of joint design for both the partial resistance factor and the design value of joint yield strength in cold regions.
Dark microbial CO2 fixation in temperate forest soils increases with CO2 concentration
Authors: Spohn Marie , Müller Karolin , Höschen Carmen , Mueller Carsten W. , Marhan Sven
Published: November 2019

Dark, that is, nonphototrophic, microbial CO2 fixation occurs in a large range of soils. However, it is still not known whether dark microbial CO2 fixation substantially contributes to the C balance of soils and what factors control this process. Therefore, the objective of this study was to quantitate dark microbial CO2 fixation in temperate forest soils, to determine the relationship between the soil CO2 concentration and dark microbial CO2 fixation, and to estimate the relative contribution of different microbial groups to dark CO2 fixation. For this purpose, we conducted a 13C‐CO2 labeling experiment. We found that the rates of dark microbial CO2 fixation were positively correlated with the CO2 concentration in all soils. Dark microbial CO2 fixation amounted to up to 320 µg C kg−1 soil day−1 in the Ah horizon. The fixation rates were 2.8–8.9 times higher in the Ah horizon than in the Bw1 horizon. Although the rates of dark microbial fixation were small compared to the respiration rate (1.2%–3.9% of the respiration rate), our findings suggest that organic matter formed by microorganisms from CO2 contributes to the soil organic matter pool, especially given that microbial detritus is more stable in soil than plant detritus. Phospholipid fatty acid analyses indicated that CO2 was mostly fixed by gram‐positive bacteria, and not by fungi. In conclusion, our study shows that the dark microbial CO2 fixation rate in temperate forest soils increases in periods of high CO2 concentrations, that dark microbial CO2 fixation is mostly accomplished by gram‐positive bacteria, and that dark microbial CO2 fixation contributes to the formation of soil organic matter.
Patients and relatives coping with inflammatory arthritis: Care teamwork
Authors: Brignon Morgane , Vioulac Christel , Boujut Emilie , Delannoy Caroline , Beauvais Catherine , Kivits Joelle , Poivret Didier , Giraudet Le Quintrec Janine‐Sophie , Untas Aurélie , Rat Anne‐Christine
Published: November 2019

Objective

To explore how patients and relatives experience and talk together about their life with inflammatory arthritis.

Design

Qualitative research.

Setting

A convenience sample was used. Participants were recruited in seven rheumatology departments in France.

Participants

Patients with rheumatoid arthritis or spondyloarthritis, agreeing to participate in the study with a relative, age at least 18 years.

Data collection and analysis

Two psychologists conducted face‐to‐face interviews with 20 patient‐relative dyads (40 individuals). A thematic analysis followed a general inductive approach.

Results

Saturation was reached after interviews with 20 dyads. The analysis revealed four main themes: (a) disease ‘lived’ together: a new role for the relative (providing help in physical tasks, emotional support, acting as a driving force, having a role in medical care) and communication around the disease (not focusing on the disease); (b) impact of the disease on the relationship; (c) social impact of the disease on the dyad (social isolation); (d) difficulties and needs of the relative (need to better know the disease).

Conclusion

This study has highlighted the importance of recognizing the role of the relative in the management of inflammatory arthritis disease, especially when medical decisions are shared with professionals. A joint approach to treatment is a basis for coping with the disease. This approach supposes (a) discussions about relatives’ new roles to clarify them, (b) patients’ and relatives’ communication skills and (c) a good understanding of each other, which can be improved by providing information on the disease and coping strategies for both the patient and the relative.
Nanoparticles in influenza subunit vaccine development: Immunogenicity enhancement
Authors: Khalaj‐Hedayati Atin , Chua Caroline Lin Lin , Smooker Peter , Lee Khai Wooi
Published: November 2019

The threat of novel influenza infections has sparked research efforts to develop subunit vaccines that can induce a more broadly protective immunity by targeting selected regions of the virus. In general, subunit vaccines are safer but may be less immunogenic than whole cell inactivated or live attenuated vaccines. Hence, novel adjuvants that boost immunogenicity are increasingly needed as we move toward the era of modern vaccines. In addition, targeting, delivery, and display of the selected antigens on the surface of professional antigen‐presenting cells are also important in vaccine design and development. The use of nanosized particles can be one of the strategies to enhance immunogenicity as they can be efficiently recognized by antigen‐presenting cells. They can act as both immunopotentiators and delivery system for the selected antigens. This review will discuss on the applications, advantages, limitations, and types of nanoparticles (NPs) used in the preparation of influenza subunit vaccine candidates to enhance humoral and cellular immune responses.
Inhibition of TIM‐4 protects against cerebral ischaemia‐reperfusion injury
Authors: Zheng Lifang , Huang Yongqian , Wang Xinghua , Wang Xijia , Chen Wei , Cheng Wei , Pan Chunlian
Published: November 2019

TIM‐4 plays an important role in ischaemia‐reperfusion injury of liver and kidney; however, the effects of TIM‐4 on cerebral ischaemia‐reperfusion injury (IRI) are unknown. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the potential role of TIM‐4 in experimental brain ischaemia‐reperfusion injury. In this study, cerebral ischaemia reperfusion was induced by transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) for 1 hour in C57/BL6 mice. The TIM‐4 expression was detected in vivo or vitro by real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, Western blot and flow cytometric analysis. In vivo, the administration of anti‐TIM‐4 antibodies significantly suppressed apoptosis, inhibited inflammatory cells and enhanced anti‐inflammatory responses. In vitro, activated microglia exhibited reduced cellular proliferation and induced IRI injury when co‐cultured with neurons; these effects were inhibited by anti‐TIM‐4 antibody treatment. Similarly, microglia transfected with TIM‐4 siRNA and stimulated by LPS + IFN‐γ alleviated the TIM‐4‐mediated damage to neurons. Collectively, our data indicate that the inhibition of TIM‐4 can improve the inflammatory response and exerts a protective effect in cerebral ischaemia‐reperfusion injury.
Morphology and Molecular Phylogeny of Two Freshwater Oligotrich Ciliates (Protozoa, Ciliophora, Oligotrichia), Pelagostrombidium fallax (Zacharias, 1895) Krainer, 1991 and Limnostrombidium viride (Stein, 1867) Krainer, 1995, with Brief Notes on Stomatogenesis
Authors: Song Wen , Pan Bo , El‐Serehy Hamed A. , Al‐Farraj Saleh A. , Liu Weiwei , Li Lifang
Published: November 2019

The morphology of two oligotrich ciliates, Pelagostrombidium fallax (Zacharias, 1895) Krainer, 1991 and Limnostrombidium viride (Stein, 1867) Krainer, 1995, collected from a freshwater pond in northern China, was studied based on live observation and protargol staining. Currently, undescribed features in the girdle kinety in P. fallax are (a) sparsely spaced single argyrophilic basal bodies in the shoulder region and (b) a U‐shape formed below the buccal peristome. An improved diagnosis for P. fallax is supplied, based on previous and present morphological descriptions. In addition, certain ontogenetic stages of P. fallax are reported for the first time. During division, two new embryonic bodies are successively generated de novo, the first one goes to the proter, the second one to the opisthe; the new canal derives from the old canal. The morphology of L. viride is redescribed in detail; the Chinese population is highly consistent with populations in Europe. The SSU rRNA gene of P. fallax was sequenced for the first time. Phylogenetic analyses, based on SSU rRNA gene sequence data, reveal that P. fallax and L. viride cluster with Strombidium species while the result of an AU test did not reject the possibility of monophyly of the family Pelagostrombidiidae.
Radical treatment of axillary osmidrosis using the VERSAJET™ II Hydrosurgery System or traditional open excision: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Xie Juan , Fang Ying , Zhao Yu , Cao Dongsheng , Li Honghong , Chen Zenghong , Xia Yijun , Lv Yang
Published: November 2019

Background

Axillary osmidrosis, characterized by an unpleasant odor, renders social life difficult for young adults. This study aimed to compare traditional open excision and use of the VERSAJET™ II Hydrosurgery System for effectiveness and treatment complaints in the treatment of axillary osmidrosis.

Aim

The current study aimed to assess the curative effect of VERSAJET™ for axillary osmidrosis in a prospective cohort study, comparatively to traditional open excision.

Method

In this prospective cohort study, from October 2016 to March 2018, 31 and 34 patients treated with the VERSAJET™ II Hydrosurgery System and traditional open excision, respectively, were recruited and followed up for 6 months post‐treatment. Treatment outcomes were assessed, including surgical field size, operation time, postoperative complications, odor elimination, hair growth reduction, scarring, and patient satisfaction.

Results

The VERSAJET™ group had significantly shorter operation (P < .001) and lower rates of complications, including hematoma (P = .014), wound dehiscence (P = .048), and epidermal erosion (P = .022) compared with the open excision group. A similar rate of good odor elimination (P = .925) was observed in both groups (96.77% and 97.05% in the VERSAJET™ and open excision groups, respectively). Most patients experienced sparsity of armpit hair following both procedures. Based on a comprehensive consideration of the whole operation process, recovery process, postoperative odor and scar, patients in the VERSAJET™ group were more satisfied compared with those in the open excision group (P = .008).

Conclusion

The VERSAJET™ II procedure is shorter, with less postoperative scarring and fewer postoperative complications, compared with the traditional method. Therefore, the VERSAJET™ II procedure is superior to traditional open excision, as a new, radical treatment method for axillary osmidrosis.
Relationship between displacement of the masseter muscle during biting and masseter muscle quality and bite force in healthy elderly persons
Authors: Hara Koji , Tohara Haruka , Namiki Chizuru , Yamaguchi Kohei , Chantaramanee Ariya , Kobayashi Kenichiro , Saito Takayuki , Nakagawa Kazuharu , Okumura Takuma , Yoshimi Kanako , Nakane Ayako , Furuya Junichi , Minakuchi Shunsuke
Published: November 2019

Background

Although age‐related changes in muscle quality influence muscle strength, the relationship between masseter muscle (MM) quality and maximum biting force (MBF) has never been studied.

Objective

The aims of the study were to verify the relationship among MM quality, MBF, and the displacement of the MM while biting forcefully (MMD) and to clarify the age‐related decline in MBF in healthy elderly persons.

Methods

Seventy‐four healthy community‐dwelling individuals (mean age, >65 years) from Tokyo metropolis were recruited. The thickness (index of muscle quantity), echo intensity (index of muscle quality) and displacement of the MM while biting forcefully (MMT, MMEI and MMD, respectively) were measured by ultrasonography. MBF was measured using a pressure‐sensitive sheet. Independent predictors of MBF and MMD were determined using multivariate linear regression analyses adjusted for age, sex and the number of present teeth.

Results

MBF was significantly correlated with the number of teeth (β = 0.577, P < .001) and MMD (β = 0.302, P = .015), but not with MMT (β = 0.019, P = .868) or MMEI (β = 0.054 P = .703). MMD was significantly correlated with MMEI (β = −0.606, P < .001), but not with MMT (β = 0.048, P = .681) or the number of teeth (β = 0.065, P = .613).

Conclusions

MMEI was associated with MMD, an index of MBF, regardless of tooth number. The age‐related quality change in the MM might cause a decrease in its contraction, resulting in age‐related decline in MBF.
Forensic medical evaluation of children who present with suspected sexual abuse: How do we know what we know?
Authors: Wong Grace
Published: November 2019

The past 40 years have seen significant changes in the way children's genital findings are interpreted in the context of suspected sexual abuse. Many findings previously thought to be diagnostic of sexual abuse are now recognised to be normal variants, caused by other medical conditions or have insufficient specificity to make a definite diagnosis of abuse. Use of the Adams classification in recent years has provided a common language and practical framework for describing and categorising genital findings in children. This review article addresses our current understanding of how to interpret genital findings in children, the evidence on which this interpretation is based, gaps that remain in our knowledge and suggestions for future research.
The prognostic nutritional index predicts survival and response to first‐line chemotherapy in advanced biliary cancer
Authors: Salati Massimiliano , Filippi Roberto , Vivaldi Caterina , Caputo Francesco , Leone Francesco , Salani Francesca , Cerma Krisida , Aglietta Massimo , Fornaro Lorenzo , Sperti Elisa , Di Maio Massimo , Ortega Cinzia , Fenocchio Elisabetta , Lombardi Pasquale , Cagnazzo Celeste , Depetris Ilaria , Gelsomino Fabio , Spallanzani Andrea , Santini Daniele , Silvestris Nicola , Aprile Giuseppe , Roviello Giandomenico , Scartozzi Mario , Cascinu Stefano , Casadei‐Gardini Andrea
Published: November 2019

Background

An accurate risk‐stratification is key to optimize the benefit‐to‐risk ratio of palliative treatment in advanced biliary cancer. We aimed at assessing the impact of the prognostic nutritional index (PNI) on survival and treatment response in advanced biliary cancer (ABC) receiving first‐line chemotherapy.

Methods

Medical records of ABC treated with standard chemotherapy at the Modena Cancer Centre were retrospectively reviewed for variables deemed of potential interest, including the PNI. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to investigate the association between the covariates and overall survival (OS).

Results

114 ABC fulfilled the inclusion criteria and made up the training cohort. A PNI cut‐off value of 36.7 was established using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. At both the univariate and the multivariate analysis, low PNI value (<36.7) was associated with shorter OS (P = .0011), together with increased NLR (P = .0046) and ECOG >1 (P < .0001). The median OS was 5.4 vs 12.1 months in the low‐ vs high PNI‐group. Moreover, a PNI value >36.7 resulted in a higher disease control in patients treated with gemcitabine/platinum combination (61.4% vs 34.3%). These results were validated in an independent cohort of 253 ABC.

Conclusions

We demonstrated and externally validated a prognostic role for the PNI in ABC treated with first‐line chemotherapy. Although the PNI turned out to be predictive in the subset of patients receiving platinum/gemcitabine combination, future prospective confirmation is needed.
Income shares, secular stagnation and the long‐run distribution of wealth
Authors: Petach Luke , Tavani Daniele
Published: November 2019

Four alarming stylized facts have recently emerged in the United States: (a) a decline in the labor share of income; (b) a decline in labor productivity; (c) an increase in the top 1% wealth share and (d) an increase in the capital‐income ratio. In Capital in the XXI Century, Thomas Piketty's argument is that the r > g inequality determines an increase in the capital‐income ratio; if the elasticity of substitution in production is above one, the profit share rises. We provide a contrasting explanation that draws from the Post Keynesian approach to differential saving propensities between classes and the Classical‐Marxian theory of induced technical change. In a simple model of “capitalists” and “workers,” we show that institutional changes that lower the labor share—declining unionization, increasing monopsony power in the labor market, the global ‘race to the bottom' in unit labor costs or the exhaustion of path‐breaking scientific discoveries—can reduce labor productivity growth because of the lessened incentives to innovate to save on labor costs. A falling labor share reduces workers' total savings, and wealth concentrates in the capitalists' hands. A higher profit share and wealth share both put pressure on accumulation: but the long‐run growth rate, which is anchored to labor productivity growth, has fallen. To restore balanced growth, the capital‐income ratio must rise, independent of the elasticity of substitution. These tendencies are not inevitable: taxation can be used to implement any wealth distribution targeted by policymakers, while worker‐crushing institutional arrangements can also in principle be reversed through policy. Neither change appears likely given the current institutional and global policy climate.
Surface resistance to SSVs and SIRVs in pilin deletions of Sulfolobus islandicus
Authors: Rowland Elizabeth F. , Bautista Maria A. , Zhang Changyi , Whitaker Rachel J.
Published: November 2019

Characterizing the molecular interactions of viruses in natural microbial populations offers insights into virus–host dynamics in complex ecosystems. We identify the resistance of Sulfolobus islandicus to Sulfolobus spindle‐shaped virus (SSV9) conferred by chromosomal deletions of pilin genes, pilA1 and pilA2 that are individually able to complement resistance. Mutants with deletions of both pilA1 and pilA2 or the prepilin peptidase, PibD, show the reduction in the number of pilins observed in TEM and reduced surface adherence but still adsorb SSV9. The proteinaceous outer S‐layer proteins, SlaA and SlaB, are not required for adsorption nor infection demonstrating that the S‐layer is not the primary receptor for SSV9 surface binding. Strains lacking both pilins are resistant to a broad panel of SSVs as well as a panel of unrelated S. islandicus rod‐shaped viruses (SIRVs). Unlike SSV9, we show that pilA1 or pilA2 is required for SIRV8 adsorption. In sequenced Sulfolobus strains from around the globe, one copy of each pilA1 and pilA2 is maintained and show codon‐level diversification, demonstrating their importance in nature. By characterizing the molecular interactions at the initiation of infection between S. islandicus and two different types of viruses we hope to increase the understanding of virus–host interactions in the archaeal domain.
Jacques Maritain on the Mystic-Poet
Authors: Haynes Anthony Richard
Published: November 2019

I examine Jacques Maritain's assertion that his godfather, the Catholic writer Léon Bloy, was both an artist and a mystic, capable of reaching the heights of mystical contemplation of God. First examining this assertion in light of Maritain's mystical theology and philosophy of creativity, I show that a conventional reading of their operative principles renders mystical experience and artistic experience essentially different in their respective modes and objects of knowledge. Drawing on Maritain's personal reflections on Bloy and recent developments in Maritain scholarship, however, I then make the case that by virtue of relatively unexplored elements in Maritain's testimony and theoretical principles, the Christian artist can also have the experience of the Christian mystic when they direct their work to the mysteries of the Christian faith. I call this convergence ‘Infused-Poetic Contemplation’.
Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva: Review and research activities in Japan
Authors: Haga Nobuhiko , Nakashima Yasuharu , Kitoh Hiroshi , Kamizono Junji , Katagiri Takenobu , Saijo Hideto , Tsukamoto Sho , Shinoda Yusuke , Sawada Ryoko , Nakahara Yasuo
Published: November 2019

Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP) is a rare genetic skeletal disorder manifesting progressive heterotopic ossification (HO) and congenital malformation of the great toes. Since 2007, we have conducted research on FOP. Here, we review the findings on FOP published to date, including the results of our research. Epidemiological studies in Japan have indicated that FOP has nearly the same prevalence in Japan as in the rest of the world. Basic research on its pathoetiology has progressed rapidly since the identification of the causal gene in 2006. Clinical and radiological findings have been thoroughly researched, including early radiological signs, and diagnostic criteria were established, designating FOP as an intractable disease in Japan. In patients with FOP, the progression of HO is associated with numerous disabilities, often manifesting in vicious cycles that can lead to early mortality. Through cross‐sectional and short‐term longitudinal studies, we have explored patient education, quality of life, and activities of daily living among Japanese patients. The management of FOP requires education of patients and caregivers, the use of medications to settle inflammation and flare‐ups, instructions to ensure proper oral care, and other compensatory approaches that aid in rehabilitation. An avoidance of medical intervention, which may cause HO to progress, is also important. The advent of new drugs to prevent HO could have clinical benefit.
Servant leadership, leader gender, and team gender role: Testing a female advantage in a cascading model of performance
Authors: Lemoine G. James , Blum Terry C.
Published: November 2019

We integrate the theory of gender role congruity with extant research on servant leadership to propose and test a moderated process model in which we hypothesize that servant leadership's effects on outcomes are stronger when implemented by women, and when it takes place within teams high in feminine gender role composition. Specifically, we theorize that servant leadership's communal emphases on stakeholders and relationships align with female role prototypes, which should lead to female advantages for job performance through the proposed serial mediators of prosocial motivation and follower servant leadership behaviors. We test this moderated, serial‐mediation model in a temporally lagged field study with a multi‐organizational sample including 109 teams. We find evidence that the mediated process model is moderated at the first stage such that in teams higher in feminine gender role composition, servant leadership has greater direct effects on prosocial motivation, as well as indirect effects on follower servant leadership and performance. We do not find support for our hypothesis that a similar moderated effect would emerge for leader sex; instead, we find that the effect of servant leadership on follower servant leadership, and subsequently to performance, is stronger for women leaders than it is for men. The implications of these findings for the servant leadership and role congruity literatures are discussed.
Perceptions of married life among single never‐married, single ever‐married, and married adults
Authors: Gesselman Amanda N. , Franco Carol Y. , Brogdon Elizabeth M. , Gray Peter B. , Garcia Justin R. , Fisher Helen E.
Published: November 2019

With the increasing prevalence of single adults in the United States, perceptions of marriage as the relationship “gold standard” may be diminishing. In this study (N = 6,576), we explored perceptions of married life in three subgroups of participants: Those who have never married, ever married, and currently married. Across subgroups, most did not perceive married life more positively than single life in external/tangible domains (e.g., more friends), but did in emotional experiences and frame of mind (e.g., contentment). These findings suggest conceptualizations of marriage may be changing to be less positive or less discrepant from conceptualizations of single life. However, these findings also suggest that people continue to view marital relationships as a positive source of emotional experience and support.
Sediment type and the clonal size greatly affect the asexual reproduction, productivity, and nutrient absorption of Vallisneria natans
Authors: Lin Qingwei , Fan Mingjun , Jin Ping , Riaz Luqman , Wu Zhenbin , He Feng , Liu Biyun , Ma Jianmin
Published: November 2019

Most aquatic vegetation restorations involve the transplantation of submerged macrophytes. Sediment type and the clonal size are of great significance as they determine the fate of submerged macrophytes. In order to ensure successful restoration, a simulation experiment was conducted using aquarium mesocosms to investigate the response of stolon propagation capacity, the morphological features and productivity of Vallisneria natans for four types of sediment (lake mud [L], lake mud + sand [L + S, 50:50, v/v mixture], sand [S], clay [C]), and three types of clonal sizes. Results showed that sediment types significantly affected V. natans biomass accumulation, stolon propagation ability, ramet morphological characteristics, and productivity, where the asexual reproduction ability and productivity ranked as L > L + S > S > C in four sediment types. Total biomass, maximum net production, number of ramets, root diameter, number of stolons, and stolon propagation rate were all highest in L. In L and L + S, the plant chlorophyll content was higher than in S and C. The root diameter and the ratio of aboveground/underground biomass in S were the smallest among the four sediments. Moreover, when more V. natans seedlings were linked, more ramets and biomass were produced. The stolon propagation rate was ranked as the stolon with single seedling greater than the stolon with two‐linked seedlings greater than the stolon with three‐linked seedlings in L and L + S. The concentration of total nitrogen, total phosphorus, and NO3−‐N in water was remarkably reduced in four aquariums. Findings provide a scientific basis for restoring submerged macrophytes in different sediment settings.
Estimating ammonia emission after field application of manure by the integrated horizontal flux method: a comparison of concentration and wind speed profiles
Authors: Goedhart Paul W. , Mosquera Julio , Huijsmans Jan F. M.
Published: November 2019

The integrated horizontal flux method is commonly used to estimate ammonia emission from field‐applied manure. The method involves measuring the wind speed and ammonia concentration at various heights on a post in the middle of a manured plot. Wind speed and concentration profiles are subsequently fitted to these measurements. The product of the profiles represents the amount of ammonia displaced by the wind, and the calculated ammonia emission is based on integrating the product of the profiles along the height. A crucial step is the functional form of the profiles, and linear relationships employing the logarithm of the height are generally used. In this study, 160 Dutch emission experiments on grassland were re‐analysed to evaluate alternative profiles for the concentration and wind speed. It is shown that an exponential concentration model usually provides a better fit than the commonly used profile and that the measurement error for the concentration should be modelled by means of a gamma distribution. Based on the re‐analysis, this new model reduces the calculated ammonia emission by around 10%. It is further shown that adding a displacement parameter to the wind speed model only has a minor effect on the calculated emission. Finally, a simulation study reveals that misspecification of the concentration profile may lead to a relative bias of up to 27%, that the precision of the estimated emission can be improved by increasing the number of concentration measurements near the ground and that wind speed measurements at three heights could suffice.
The use of a hematology analyzer with a new generation of software as an alternative to flow cytometry for enumerating residual white blood cells in blood components
Authors: Blanco Richard Alejo , Cavagnetto Chloe , Willmott Laura , Aydogdu Elif , Akinyemi Nicola , Standring Helena , Procter Simon , Garner Stephen F. , Shirakami Atsushi , Saker Jarob , Linssen Joachim , Cardigan Rebecca
Published: November 2019

BACKGROUND

Leukoreduction of blood components was implemented to reduce transfusion‐associated risks. The detection level for residual white blood cells (rWBCs) required to demonstrate leukoreduction was originally considered too low for hematology analyzers. Developments enabling cell counts in body fluids have, however, renewed interest in rWBC counting. An assessment of Sysmex XN hematology analyzers with software offering automated rWBC enumeration intended for use on blood components was performed.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Performance characteristics were determined using platelet, red blood cell (RBC), and plasma samples spiked with WBCs. Subsequently, components (platelets, n = 1367; and plasma, n = 80) were tested and results compared with flow cytometry, to monitor leukoreduction efficiency to a level of less than 1 × 106/unit. Components identified by flow cytometry as having poor leukoreduction, exceeding this limit, were also tested (platelets, n = 3; and RBCs, n = 10).

RESULTS

Linearity studies up to 32 WBCs/μL showed good correlation between observed and expected results (R2 > 0.9996). Precision analysis gave an average limit of quantitation of 2 WBCs/μL with coefficients of variation less than 20%. Average carryover was 0.1%. Plain sample tubes were a source of aberrant results with routine components. Using ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid tubes the analyzer gave results greater than 1 × 106/unit in 2.7% of cases compared with 1.4% by flow cytometry, but overall results were within specification, with more than 90% of components having rWBC values below the limit. All incidences of poor leukoreduction, with flow cytometry results greater than 13 rWBCs/μL were correctly identified, with an excellent correlation between results (R2 = 0.9818).

CONCLUSION

The analyzer demonstrated acceptable performance characteristics for enumeration of rWBCs; consequently, additional multisite evaluations are warranted.
Characterization of a chloroquine‐induced canine model of pruritus and skin inflammation
Authors: Blubaugh Amanda , Denley Tara , Banovic Frane
Published: November 2019

Background

Chloroquine (CQ) is a prototypical systemic and intradermal pruritogen for histamine‐independent (nonhistaminergic) itch in mice and humans. The predictive validity of this model is poorly documented in dogs.

Hypothesis/Objective

To determine pruritogenic and inflammatory effects of systemic and i.d. CQ injections in healthy dogs.

Animals

Ten healthy purpose‐bred laboratory beagles.

Methods and materials

All dogs were randomized to receive i.d. (200 and 400 µg/site), intravenous (2 mg/kg) and subcutaneous (3 mg/kg) CQ injections. Dogs were video‐recorded for 30 min after i.d. injections and for 300 min after i.v. and s.c. injections. Buffered saline injections served as controls for each route. Global wheal scores were evaluated at 30 min post‐i.d. injection by a blinded investigator.

Results

All dogs showed wheal and erythema at the CQ i.d. injection sites; global wheal scores of each CQ concentration were significantly increased compared to placebo (P ≤ 0.05). Blinded evaluation revealed no significant increase in generalized pruritic behaviour (pruritic seconds) after i.v. or s.c. administration of CQ. Intradermal injections induced mild localized acute pruritic behaviours at the site of injections at 200 µg (P = 0.06) and 400 µg (P = 0.27) CQ in dogs.

Conclusion and clinical significance

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report which shows that i.d. CQ injections may induce acute inflammation in healthy dogs. By contrast to the systemic CQ‐induced pruritus reported previously in healthy mice and dogs, no significant pruritic behaviours were observed after CQ injection, regardless of the route of administration.
Nerve growth factor in dogs: Assessment of two immunoassays and selected ocular parameters following a nicergoline challenge per os
Authors: Sebbag Lionel , Moody Leah M. , Allbaugh Rachel A. , Mochel Jonathan P.
Published: November 2019

Impairment of corneal nerves can result in the development of ocular surface diseases such as aqueous tear deficiency and neurotrophic keratopathy. This study investigates oral nicergoline, an α‐adrenoceptor antagonist shown to enhance endogenous secretion of nerve growth factor (NGF) by the lacrimal gland, as a potential therapy for these conditions. Five female spayed Beagle dogs received a 2‐week course of oral nicergoline (10 mg twice daily). Drug safety was evaluated with ophthalmic and physical examinations, blood pressure monitoring, bloodwork, and urinalysis. The effect of nicergoline on the ocular surface was assessed with corneal esthesiometry, Schirmer tear test‐1, and tear film breakup time. Drug effect on NGF levels was assessed by collecting tears and blood at baseline and completion of therapy using a bead‐based immunoassay and an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Although nicergoline was well tolerated in all dogs, it did not have a significant impact on corneal sensitivity, tear production, or tear stability. Of note, NGF was below the limit of quantification in all tear samples and was only detected in 8/20 serum samples with no significant difference between levels at baseline (189.4 ± 145.1 pg/mL) and completion of therapy (149.4 ± 79.4 pg/mL). Further validation of NGF analytical assays is warranted before nicergoline is investigated in clinical patients.
Sports, Instagram, and conflict talk in Englishes
Authors: Lee Jamie Shinhee
Published: November 2019

This study examines conflict talk and ‘othering discourse’ on Instagram involving the 2018 Winter Olympics hosted in Pyeongchang, South Korea. The disqualification of highly anticipated medalists in short track speed skating events elicited heated online arguments between Korean and Chinese sports fans. A content analysis of antagonistic texts featuring anti‐Korea and anti‐China posts reveals that ‘othering’ practices are predominantly performed by: (1) making reference to seemingly irrelevant details; (2) evoking stereotypical images of a race and/or a nation; and (3) utilizing overtly offensive language or transgressive language. Drawing upon linguistic strategies of encoding ‘us’ vs. ‘them’ dichotomies reported in earlier research, this study shows that explicit disparagement, disapproving representation of the other, stereotyping, and overgeneralization are readily utilized by both parties, who also occasionally engage in verbal reconciliation through lexical and syntactic mirroring.
Tawsi Melek, Religion and Innovation
Authors: Das Michael
Published: November 2019

Sheikh Adi Ibn Musafir, who was born 1079 in Lebanon and spent most of his life in Syria, did something no one has since attempted: He invented a new God, Whom He called Tawsi Melek, “The Angel of the Highest Order” (from the Kurdish) and a new religion to go with Him.Sheikh Adi, a Sufi, and His colleagues, a ragtag fraternity of Buddhists, Christians, Hindus and Jews wrote a detailed explanation of This Angelic Being and His Pillars of Faith called the Kitab al Jilwa, “The Book We Wrote.”The people Sheikh Adi taught about Tawsi Melek, called themselves Yazidi, the descendants of Angels, or “The Defenders of the Place”. Who attacked them? Other Christians, Muslims, and Jews without restraint. Weary of war, dogma, displacement, and the shear ridiculousness of it all, Sheikh Adi led a revolution through Tawsi Melek.What did Tawsi Melek say about His religious contemporaries and reasons for their Crusades?“All the books of those who are without decency are altered by them; and they have declined from them, although they were written by their prophets and the apostles. That there are interpolations is seen in the fact that each sect endeavors to prove that the others are wrong and to destroy their books.”Sheikh Adi and the Yazidi wanted none of it. Not their company, their books, their Bloodthirsty God, their restrictive and nonsensical rituals, their appetites for war.  In the Kitab al Jilwa, Tawsi Melek fosters a GDI attitude towards the incredulous and irreverent aspects of other faiths without compromising the centrality of a loving and protective deity. The idea was wildly popular. The Kitab Al Jilwa, a short text, and its counterpart, the Book of the White, were instrumental in the induction of  over 20 000 000 Yazidi from India, Syria, Turkey, Iran, Iraq, Eastern Europe. There are less than one million Yazidi left in the world today.Because of their clout, the Yazidi were hunted nearly to extinction by the Ottomans, other Muslims, and their numbers were culled further by the DAESH. It didn’t help that rumors confused Tawsi Melek’s identity with a fallen angel, and that  Hadith states that any abandonment of orthodox Islam is punishable by death Calabrese & Sexton et. al (2008.).What is the truth of Tawsi Melek and why did His Appearance in the Spiritual Canon cause humanity to go mad? Are human beings allowed to make new gods and enter into new arrangements with the divine or not? Who is empowered by God to police these things and should their authority be recognized?What of Yazidism itself? Can humanity grow from re-exposure to the beliefs, scriptures, and Archangel contained in the Book They Wrote?
Effects of Interdisciplinery Nutrition Education on Prospective Science Teachers’ Development of Healthy Life Style Behaviours
Authors: Mertoglu Hatice
Published: November 2019

With the interdisciplinary approach which is developed as an alternative to the traditional disciplinary model in education, it is aimed that the students will have a holistic perspective while producing solutions to real life problems. In this study, the effects of nutrition education given with interdisciplinary approach on health development behaviors of prospective teachers were investigated. The research has an experimental research model, which is one of the quantitative research designs. The sample of the study is consisting of 60 prospective teachers studying in the science teaching department of a state university in Istanbul in the 2016-2017 education year. In this study, in addition to demographic information form that has been applied, the Healthy Life Style Behavior Scale II (HLSBS-II) was also applied to the experimental and control group students in order to determine healthy life style behaviors of students. SPSS 23 package program was used to perform statistical analysis of the gathered data. When the post-test data were analyzed, it was seen that there were significant differences between four sub-dimensions (physical activity, nutrition, inner development and stress management) and overall scores of the two groups (p<.05). When the research results are examined, it appears that interdisciplinary nutrition education has a positive effect on students' healthy life style behaviors. The information obtained in the research was discussed and recommendations were made accordingly.
Teachers’ Attitude Towards the Inclusion of Students With Disabilities in the Regular Classroom: The Case of Selected Primary Schools in South Gondar Administrative Towns-Ethiopia
Authors: Asres Getachew Walelign
Published: November 2019

The participants of this study were general primary school teachers. The data gathering instrument were questionnaire. Quantitative data analysis method were employed to compute the data obtained through questionnaire. The result showed that the general actual mean score of teachers’ attitude scale is fairly greater than the cut point mean score. Due to this reason, teachers had fairly positive attitude to the inclusion of students with disabilities in to the mainstream classroom. It is recommended that the ministry of education should include special needs education courses to the college and university training program so that all the would be graduate teachers would get an opportunity to scale up their knowledge and skills about special needs education.
Effect of Micro-Textured Tool Parameters on Forces, Stresses, Wear Rate, and Variable Friction in Titanium Alloy Machining
Authors: Patel Kaushalandra , Liu Guoliang , Shah Suril R. , Özel Tuğrul
Published: November 2019

Micro-textures applied to cutting tool surfaces provide certain advantages such as reducing tool forces, stresses, and temperature hence overall friction between the tool–chip contact and improving chip adherence and associated tool wear. This study explores the effect of micro-texture geometry parameters fabricated on the rake face of tungsten carbide inserts that were tested in dry turning titanium alloy Ti-6Al-4V. The effects of micro-texture geometry on the cutting forces, tool stresses, tool temperatures, tool wear rate, and variable friction coefficient were studied with 3D finite element (FE) simulations. The simulation model was validated comparing cutting forces predicted and measured. The results indicated some effects of micro-textured tool geometry parameters being significant and others are not as significant. The experiments reveal that the effects of micro-groove width, depth, and distance from cutting edge are found to be significant on cutting forces, but the spacing is not as much. The effect of increasing feed rate on cutting force and tool wear was significant and suppressed the advantages offered by micro-grooved texture tool geometry. The simulation results indicate that the effect of micro-texture parameters such as groove depth and distance from cutting edge is significant on tool temperature and wear rate. The variable nature of friction coefficient was emphasized and represented as functions of state variables such as normal stress and local temperature as well as micro-texture parameters.
Watercourse Crossing Program: 10 Years Performance
Authors: Ferris Gerald , Newton Sarah , Ho Minh
Published: November 2019

Plains Midstream Canada (PMC) completes a watercourse crossing program as part of its overall integrity management program. The approximately 9,900 kilometers of operating and discontinued pipelines are evaluated within the watercourse crossing program. The pipelines are located throughout the Canadian Provinces of Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Ontario. The terrain traversed ranges from relatively steep near the Rocky Mountains to extremely flat in northern Alberta and Southern Ontario. Since 2008, PMC’s systematic watercourse crossing program has evolved and now consists of approximately 5,000 individual watercourse crossings. The bankfull width of the watercourses ranges from less than 1 m for intermittent streams to more than 700 m at major rivers.

The watercourse crossing program is subjected to a continuous improvement process, with a focus on key learnings from pipeline failures, free spans and exposure. This paper describes the results from the program over the last 10 years and highlights program improvements. In addition, data from a failure and three free spans on the pipelines now owned by PMC, but where the exposure, free span or failure occurred prior to PMC purchasing the pipelines were added to expand the available data for the key learnings.
Utilisation of Sheet Piles in the OCENSA’s Right of Way for Slope Stabilisation and Bioengineering Works
Authors: García Hugo
Published: November 2019

On the maintenance carried out by OCENSA for slope stabilization in areas with geotechnical issues, protection of lateral streams’ banks, maintenance of the Right of Way (RoW) embankment or access roads, sheet piles have been successfully used. The paper describes the different alternatives and their uses. Among them are: terraces to facilitate drainage and plant recovery, PVC sheet piles for protection of stream banks, sheet piles made of carbon steel pipe and steel deck in which the piles can be driven by percussion or previously excavated with drilling machine.
Natech Risk Management on Pipelines of Cenit
Authors: Aristizabal Ceballos Jaime , Chaves Agudelo Julian Fernando , Motta Tierradentro Carlos Eduardo , Montoya Rodríguez Maria Isabel
Published: November 2019

In recent years, the Colombian government has strengthened its legislation moving towards a disaster risk management system (Law 1523 in 2012) and has established guidelines on the role of public and private entities (decree 2157 in 2017) when defining the structure of disaster risk management plans. This paper presents the advancements on Natech risk management implementation in Cenit (major Colombian pipeline operator of hydrocarbons transport), to identify areas of potential disaster based on the application of its geohazards assessment model that considers prevention specific elements and consequence analysis.
Corrosion Characterization of Resistance Spot Welded Aluminum and Steel Couple
Authors: Maddela Surender , Carlson Blair E.
Published: November 2019

The corrosion resistance of resistance spot welded (RSW) Al-steel couples of varying combinations of 6016-T4 aluminum alloys and steel substrates, including with and without adhesive at the faying interface has been successfully evaluated, and compared to corresponding self-pierce riveted (SPR) couples. The corrosion resistance of resistance spot welded Al-steel couples has performed well in cyclic corrosion testing (GMW 17026) and the results are comparable to or better than that of self-pierce riveted couples. SPR couples are more susceptible to galvanic corrosion than resistance spot-welded couples based upon experimentally measured electrochemical potentials from actual joints. The presence of adhesive acts significantly to reduce galvanic corrosion between aluminum alloy and steel substrates, and moreover tensile lap-shear strength significantly increased with structural adhesive for both RSW and SPR joining systems. However, despite the presence of adhesive the lap-shear strength was reduced by more than 50% after cyclic corrosion testing to strength levels comparable to the lap-shear strength of couples having no adhesive and tested in ambient conditions.