bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of fibres for the stabilisation of steep slopes
Authors: Grzybowska-Pietras Joanna , Nguyen Giang , Przybyło Stanisława , Rom Monika , Broda Jan
Published: August 2018

For many years, techniques improving weak soils by means of additional elements incorporated into their structures have been applying in geotechnical structures (earth structures). An example of such a procedure is the use of geosynthetics enabling to solve geotechnical problems related to anti-erosion protection, as well as filtration and draining. In addition to geosynthetics, randomly distributed fibers are used. Fibers mixed with soil perform a function similar to the function of the root system of protective vegetation and enable the creation of flexible and easy to green construction. During the research, the influence of the type of fibers and their amount on erosion of slope located in the suburbs of Bielsko-Biala (Poland) was determined. Soil parameters and fiber properties were determined before their placement. Research on the physical properties of the soils and fibers morphological structure and strength was carried out in accordance with applicable standards. Subsequently, the slope stability was assessed during many months of exploitation. During the research, 2 m wide plots were created on the slope, covered with soil mixed with various amount of fibers. Fibers mixed with soil form a spatial grid retaining soil particles washed out by streams of surface water flowing down, limit the negative impact of erosion and increase slope stability. Natural fibers store excess water in soil, which promotes the development of protective vegetation.
Modelling of electricity demand in residential buildings using artificial neural networks
Authors: Jasiński Tomasz
Published: August 2018

Electricity is the basis for the functioning of modern society. It is used for many purposes, including HVAC systems. Information on future electricity demand is an important element from the point of view of both the real estate user and other entities on the energy market. The study forecasts the demand for electricity on the basis of data from over 12,000 buildings. The model was created using one of the tools from the area of artificial intelligence - neural networks. Over 15,000 networks differing in architecture, number of nerve cells, activation functions, sets of explanatory variables and learning algorithms have been tested. The paper presents those from the tested models, which were characterized by the highest precision of operation.
On some aspects of modernisation of a wooden house with special cultural value
Authors: Jędrzejuk Hanna , Dojnikowska Joanna
Published: August 2018

This paper presents specification of the scope of modernization of a wooden house built in 1950 in the village of Nowoberezowo in the Podlaskie voivodship (eastern Poland). It was constructed in traditional technology that is specific for this area and which dates back to the 19th century. It was considered that due to special cultural values it is necessary to preserve the exterior appearance of the building. For this reason, the idea of insulating its external walls from the outside was abandoned. In connection with planned interior remodelling and the selected variant of insulation of external walls from the inside, a hydrothermal analysis was carried out. On this basis, the maximum acceptable thickness of the thermal insulation layer was determined given the need to protect wood against degradation resulting from long-lasting moisture. The necessity to ensure adequate air exchange in rooms was emphasized and a mechanical ventilation system was proposed. Next, the impact of the proposed treatments on the change of energy performance was evaluated. An economic assessment was also made and a simple payback time was determined.
Application of Finite Difference Method for determining lunar regolith diurnal temperature distribution
Authors: Kaczmarzyk Marcin , Gawronski Marcin , Piatkowski Grzegorz
Published: August 2018

This study was performed in order to verify viability of using finite difference method and proposed simple astrometrical model for modelling heat transfer in lunar regolith. The concept was examined by developing FD model of heat flow for upper 0,9 m of lunar regolith, and comparing obtained results with in situ measurements provided by Apollo 15 and 17 heat flow experiments. The model was based on FDM approximation of Fourier’s law for one dimensional transient heat flow. Both constant and temperature-dependent thermophysical properties of lunar regolith were obtained from in situ measurements. Thermal boundary conditions were assumed on in situ measurements and on remote sensing based analytical model. In order to approximate Sun's position at lunar sky, simple analytical astrometric model of lunar rotation was developed. Matlab 2012a was used to conduct the calculations. Stable solutions were obtained for latitudes between 0 and 80°. Satisfactory agreement between Apollo 15 and 17 in situ measurements and FDM modelling was observed. A conclusion was reached, that both FDM and proposed astrometrical model are to be successfully applied for modelling heat transfer in lunar regolith.
Thermal efficiency of a modified thermal storage wall containing phase change material in comparative test periods
Authors: Krasoń Joanna , Lichołai Lech
Published: August 2018

The article presents the results and analysis of comparative tests carried out on a thermal storage wall modified with phase change material (PCM) in a selected time interval. These tests were carried out in real climatic conditions in external research chambers. The same transitional period has been compared, two consecutive calendar years, 2017 and 2018. The months of March and April were used for the analysis, which are characterized by large fluctuations of temperatures between day and night. Based on meteorological data for the Rzeszów-Jasionka station, the months of March and April are characterized by a longer period of sunshine and significant temperature fluctuations, which qualifies these months in the transition period for moderate climate in Poland. Selected physical parameters characterizing the influence of phase change materials on the thermal efficiency of a modified barrier were analysed. Analysis of selected parameters confirmed the repeated, beneficial effect of PCM on the stabilization of temperature in the internal space in selected research periods.
The influence of a thermal bridge in the corner of the walls on the possibility of water vapour condensation
Authors: Miąsik Przemysław , Lichołai Lech
Published: August 2018

The article presents an analysis of temperature on an internal wall surface. Simulations on the external wall corner were also carried out. It is a place where the surface temperature is lower due to the thermal bridge effect. The calculations were performed with the ADINA program used for numerical simulations on heat transfer through divisional structures. Finite element analysis was employed to solve the task. The calculations were performed for five case studies with different corner structures and different methods of insulation. The baseline was a wall with the heat transfer coefficient U = 0,30 W/(m2K). The reason for selecting such a coefficient for analysis was due to the fact that in most Polish buildings thermal resistance of walls results from technical norms from before January 2014. The findings of the numerical simulations were used to determine the maximum relative humidity of the internal air where water vapour condensation may occur on the internal surface of the corner. The calculations were crucial to making a qualitative assessment of the employed solutions. The findings showed that it is possible to improve the thermal functioning of a wall in the corner thanks to an additional layer of thermal insulation, for example in the form of an avant-corps, placed within the corner.
Evaluation of the energy efficiency of an internal blind containing PCM
Authors: Musiał Michał
Published: August 2018

This article presents the possibilities of using phase change materials for the modernization of transparent partitions and elements functioning with them. The author draws attention to the possibility of reducing the energy costs of the building, by increasing the thermal capacity of the internal window blinds. The article draws attention to many factors related both to the properties of PCMs themselves, the place of application and climatic conditions that may affect the effectiveness of the entire solution. To assess the energy efficiency of the abovementioned shutter, field tests were carried out in an isothermal test chamber. The article presents the results of the conducted research, showing the advantages and disadvantages of the considered solution. A large number of scientific papers, in which the possibilities of using phase change materials for the modernization of transparent partitions are presented, apply only to the modernization of glazing. In this context, this work presents a different approach to the issues of using phase change materials in construction.
Analysis of temporal leachibility of trace elements to the environment of opoka-rocks used in historical building
Authors: Pękala Agnieszka , Hydzik-Wiśniewska Joanna
Published: August 2018

The opoka-rock belongs to the silica-carbonate rocks commonly used in historical building. The research material in the form of rock fragments was taken from historical objects located in central Poland in Kazimierz Dolny on the Vistula river. In 8 time fractions according to NEN 7375: 2004 norm, the leachability of the main elements from the beryllium group considered as environmental indicators of building materials enriched with carbonate components was determined. After the application of the ICP sequential plasma-emission spectrometer according to the PN-EN ISO 11885 norm, the concentration of Ba, Mg, Sr, Zn, Mn was determined in the water eluates. In addition, physical and mechanical properties such as: open and total porosity, compressive strength in air-dry state, bulk density and specific density; were determined in accordance with the applicable standards. The results of the conducted research allowed finding that the number of leachabilities of the examined elements in decreasing succession were as follows: Mg > Sr > Zn > Ba > Mn. The highest leachability from the selected elements was found for Mg, which ranged from 0.22 to 1.14 ppm.
Implementation and usage aspects for floors in the residential houses
Authors: Raczkiewicz Wioletta , Wójcicki Artur
Published: August 2018

Concrete floors at the building’s rooms are made of concrete, as well as fibre-reinforced concrete, or with the reinforcement meshes of various kinds. On one hand, such aspects have an influence on technical capabilities, as well as cost and labour-consumption when making the floors; on the other hand, they influence operational properties. The floors, as a result of significant dimensions, are particularly vulnerable to cracks, following the overlapping effects of shrinkage and thermal strains, as well as mechanical loads. Detailed design guidelines concerning the implementation method and the recommended materials (application of the respective plasticising admixtures and reinforcement, various kinds of steel meshes or a distributed reinforcement as steel or polypropylene fibres) have been developed, in order to prevent the cases above. It is visible (according to a great deal of experimental research) that the abovementioned guidelines limit the undesired shrinkage effects. Nevertheless, average typical conditions for making the floors very often differ from those in the guidelines, which may lead to the appearance of future shrinkage cracks, irrespectively to the applied reinforcement. The paper presents conclusions from the analysis of research results for three types of concrete ground floors made in the detached residential house, in the same operational conditions, differing with the reinforcement applied. The research was conducted from the moment of implementation and then, during the initial operational period.
Impact of porosity on calcination and sulfation of calcium sorbents
Authors: Włodarczyk Renata , Wichliński Michał , Bis Zbigniew
Published: August 2018

The focus of the study was on sorbents with a grain size of 125-250 μm. Examinations of reactivity were conducted in a reaction furnace under conditions required for reactivity testing of calcium sorbents. The tests were performed according to standard calcium sorbent tests (FW). Computation of reactivity indices and capacity index were performed according to formulae contained in previous publications [1]. The process of simultaneous calcination and sulfation of calcium sorbents is controlled by the speed of chemical processes and diffusion. Therefore, surface properties of sorbents, including porosity, play an important role in the flue gas desulphurization process. Examinations of sorbent porosity were performed using a mercury porosimeter. Based on porosimetric analysis, open porosity, the total surface area of sorbents and mean diameter of pores were evaluated for the sorbents studied.
Combined system of energy generation from biomass and solar energy
Authors: Włodarczyk Renata , Zarzycki Robert , Bis Zbigniew
Published: August 2018

The study discussed the design and principle of operation of an intelligent system that uses renewable energy sources (RES) in the form of biomass and solar energy. The aim of the system is to supply heat to public utility buildings in Częstochowa, Poland. The system of renewable energy conversion includes boilers fuelled by biomass in the form of pellets and evacuated tube solar collectors. An additional equipment for the system is buffer tanks, computer-aided monitoring of operating parameters of the system and calorimeters with the system of automation and control of the system operation. The study discusses possible problems with the use of solar installations and processes of degradation of metal components, glass tubes and working medium. The basic criteria that have to be met by the working fluid in the system, parameters that have to be periodically controlled during the use of solar installations and mixtures of fluids available in the renewable energy market were presented.
Shared nomenclature and identifiers for telescopes and instruments
Authors: Perret Emmanuelle , Louys Mireille , Buga Mihaela , Lesteven Soizick
Published: August 2018

In the context of sharing public data, science results are expected to be reproducible and therefore we need full traceability of the origin of the data. On the documentalist side, there is a need to relate instrumental origins to the published data.

We propose to define a shared nomenclature to index each publication with unique designations for facilities, telescopes and instruments which could benefit from the Virtual Observatory work on semantics.

This would help the documentalists to check the consistency of the instrument description in publications or make it more explicit. Observation period, data quality and spectral coverage, for instance, may be checked by referencing a global instrumentation service which gathers the nominal observation parameters for the telescope/facility/instrument involved.

Based on this indexation mechanism, then the bibliographic metrics for telescope /instrument usage would be easy to compute, and tracking services like the ESO telescope bibliography database (TelBib) or others would be easier to feed. This paper traces the existing initiatives and gives the example of a facility description framework reusing Virtual Observatory metadata which could be fed by the community.
Evaluating High Impact Papers: Are We Missing Something?
Authors: Winkelman Sherry , Rots Arnold , D’Abrusco Raffaele
Published: August 2018

The bibliographic science papers with high citations rates are often used as an indication of the science impact of an observatory. These high impact papers are presented as examples of the best science being done with an observatory’s data. But, is the number of citations by itself a good indicator of the scientific impact of the paper, and is impact a good indicator of the scientific impact of the observatory? In this paper we will present results from a recent study of Chandra high impact papers and suggest some alternative methods for identifying such papers.

This work has been supported by NASA under contract NAS 8-03060 to the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory for operation of the Chandra X-ray Center.
A technologist view of the next decade evolution of the librarian work environment
Authors: Schaaff André , Wenger Marc
Published: August 2018

The work environment has deeply evolved in recent decades with the generalisation of IT in terms of hardware, online resources and software. Librarians do not escape this movement and their working environment is becoming essentially digital (databases, online publications, Wikis, specialised software, etc.). With the Big Data era, new tools will be available, implementing artificial intelligence, text mining, machine learning, etc. Most of these technologies already exist but they will become widespread and strongly impact our ways of working. The development of social networks that are "business" oriented will also have an increasing influence. In this context, it is interesting to reflect on how the work environment of librarians will evolve. Maintaining interest in the daily work is fundamental and over-automation is not desirable. It is imperative to keep the human-driven factor. We draw on state of the art new technologies which impact their work, and initiate a discussion about how to integrate them while preserving their expertise.
Elevating MAST-Data Publications with Digital Object Identifiers (DOIs)
Authors: Novacescu Jenny , Peek Josh E.G. , Weissman Sarah , Levay Karen , Fleming Scott , Fraser Elizabeth , Hargis Jonathan R.
Published: August 2018

The use of digital object identifiers (DOIs) to identify data sets used in original research allows peer reviewers and journal editors to more easily validate research methods and verify results. Fellow astronomers can duplicate results or expand on initial findings when the precise data used in a research project are identified. Precise identification of data may allow archives and observatories to better understand how the community is accessing and combining its data to reach new scientific conclusions. Earlier studies have suggested that papers with linked data are more highly cited in the literature, providing motivation for authors to adopt more stringent and thorough data citation practices.
Categorisations of object types in SIMBAD
Authors: Oberto Anaïs , Loup Cécile , Allen Mark , Bot Caroline , Cambrésy Laurent , Derrière Sébastien , Genova Françoise , Nebot Ada , Ocvirk Pierre , Siebert Arnaud , Vollmer Bernd
Published: August 2018

Astronomical objects may be classified into types in many ways, and the evolution of such categorisations changes with new discoveries and progress in astrophysical understanding. The SIMBAD database contains information on astronomical objects that have been studied in the published literature, including a field that specifies astronomical object types. As a record that is derived entirely from the literature, a given astronomical object in SIMBAD may have multiple object types, and the list of object types must be maintained and updated. The SIMBAD object type list currently contains some 200 types, that are organised into a hierarchy based on astrophysical concepts. The hierarchical structure also includes relations between object types, and this facilitates searches of SIMBAD to obtain lists of all of the astronomical objects in a given category independently of the publisher or the year of publication. We will explain the organisation of astronomical object types in SIMBAD and how they may be used in queries of the SIMBAD database, and visualised on all-sky maps.
A Model for Using DataCite DOIs in Observatory Bibliographies
Authors: Rots Arnold , D’ Abrusco Raffaele , Winkelman Sherry
Published: August 2018

The use of DOI persistent identifiers has become an attractive mechanism for citing datasets in articles. However, taking the users’ interests into account requires careful consideration of the way in which we apply these identifiers.

Our objective is the application of DOIs in such a way that individual datasets are properly cited while presenting the citations to the reader in a user-friendly manner.

This is achieved by making judicious use of the metadata structure provided by DataCite.
« Je suis furieux ! »
Authors: Tiscini Giorgia
Published: August 2018

But de l’étude : Dans cet article nous opérons une distinction entre la fureur qui met en jeu la dimension du corps, et le furieux qui concerne l’être de l’individu. Partant de la psychiatrie classique qui décrivait indistinctement ces deux concepts en les faisant converger avec l’état maniaque d’abord et les liant ensuite à l’état de manie-mélancolie, nous les avons distingués, en opérant une analogie entre : furieux et mélancolie, d’une part; et fureur et manie, d’autre part.

Patients et méthode : La méthode est, d’une part, clinique : elle prend appui sur les entretiens avec les patients-détenus suivis en milieu carcéral; d’autre part elle s’inscrit dans une méthodologie de recherche pluridisciplinaire visant à entrecroiser les domaines épistémologique, psychanalytique et littéraire.

Résultats et discussion : Par les apports conceptuels de la psychanalyse, nous avons isolé la surestimation de l’objet – obligée ou volontaire – en tant que phase prodromique à l’état de la fureur. Cette surestimation se révèle lorsque l’objet détient un pouvoir sur le sujet, ce, dans les deux cas de figure : objet d’amour, objet-aimé, et objet tout-puissant, objet-haï. La fureur et le furieux s’expriment alors dans un Temps 2, tandis que le Temps 1 résonne avec le processus de la mélancolie dont les trois conditions sont : perte de l’objet, ambivalence et régression de la libido dans le moi. Conclusions : La clinique en milieu carcéral et l’apport de la théorie psychanalytique freudo-lacanienne, nous permettent alors de réaliser une différence fondamentale entre le furieux et la fureur, l’un relevant du registre du moi – ou du manque-à-être – (et inaccessible à la conscience) et l’autre relevant du corps.
Une approche psychothérapeutique des phénomènes psychosomatiques et de la corporéité à l’Île de La Réunion
Authors: Rassaby-Darsanesing Ingrid , Bioy Antoine , Lavaud Jean-Claude
Published: August 2018

Les fondements culturels, les croyances et les pratiques rituelles qui y sont associées, définissent de façon particulière le rapport au corps, des représentations et des vécus psychiques liés au corps. C’est à travers le langage que nous pouvons investiguer la spécificité culturelle de ces contenus mentaux, intimes ou partagés, et travailler avec eux. Cet article expose les croyances liées au corps dans la religion d’origine d’un patient réunionnais puis interroge le rôle de la dimension culturelle des phénomènes psychosomatiques. L’étude de cas développée ici ouvre sur une approche thérapeutique originale de cette problématique et met en avant le lien intrinsèque entre appartenance culturelle et corporéité.
La dissociation : conceptualisation, intérêt d’une intrication avec la scarification et protocole d’intervention
Authors: Dermesropian Alexandre , Goffinet Serge , de Becker Emmanuel
Published: August 2018

L’article traite de la dissociation. Nous évoquerons les débats qui entourent ce concept, couramment défini comme un état auto-hypnotique impliquant une altération de la conscience et impactant différentes dimensions du fonctionnement psychologique de l’individu. La dissociation peut aussi être évoqué comme mécanisme de préservation face à un facteur potentiellement traumatique. La littérature scientifique reconnait actuellement une implication de la dissociation dans le recours à l’automutilation superficielle. Nous tentons d’apporter un éclaircissement de la nature de cette implication et soulevons les apports hypothétiques d’une telle intrication, particulièrement en regard de la contrôlabilité ainsi que d’un rapport particulier à la douleur chez les patients scarificateurs. Nous décrivons ensuite un modèle d’intervention original, élaboré par l’un de nous et appelé protocole ARENE, permettant d’éviter de recourir à l’automutilation lorsque celle-ci parait être en lien avec le déclenchement ou l’arrêt de symptômes dissociatifs.
La voix de Dieu et les mains de Bispo
Authors: Birman Joël
Published: August 2018

L’auteur explore le parcours créatif du peintre Arthur Bispo do Rosario. Il tient compte du projet qui est au principe de cette création picturale, soit « l’impératif du sacré ». L’artiste, peu soucieux de sa notoriété, ou du succès mercantile que pouvait rencontrer son travail a toujours déclaré clairement que tout ce qu’il avait réalisé n’était qu’une conséquence et un dédoublement de la voix de Dieu, qui s’imposait à lui comme un impératif incontournable. Bispo non seulement nommait chacune de ses pièces, mais il les numérotait aussi, souhaitant par là effectuer de façon détaillée l’inventaire qui lui avait été religieusement commandé. Bispo a connu une histoire psychiatrique pénible. L’auteur défend la thèse selon laquelle Bispo a activement résisté aux processus de psychiatrisation de son existence à travers la confection de son œuvre picturale, en s’appropriant une partie de l’espace de l’asile pour en faire un atelier d’art. Malgré la violence des procédés asilaires auxquels il était soumis, Bispo s’est avéré un véritable survivant, en plus d’avoir forgé une œuvre picturale de grande envergure.

Au terme d’une présentation soignée de la biographie de l’artiste, l’auteur affirme que malgré le fait d’être effectivement inscrit dans le champ de la folie et d’avoir passé une bonne partie de sa vie à l’asile, Bispo a bel et bien réalisé une production artistique.
Vergleich von hoch- und mittelintensiven Gewichtsabnahmeprogrammen bei Adipositas Grad 2 und 3 – eine randomisierte klinische Untersuchung
Authors: Schröder Guido , Boldt Raimond , Kundt Günther , Hamann Franka , Schober Hans-Christof
Published: August 2018

Die Adipositas ist eine multifaktoriell verursachte Erkrankung mit steigender Prävalenz. Sie geht häufig einher mit einer verminderten körperlichen Belastbarkeit und Beschwerden in den beanspruchten Gelenken. Gleichzeitig besteht ein erhöhtes Risiko für Diabetes mellitus Typ 2, kardiovaskuläre Erkrankungen und Tumoren. In vielen Fällen ist der Lebensalltag der Patienten spürbar eingeschränkt. Die derzeitige Therapie besteht aus einer Ernährungs- und Verhaltensumstellung sowie adäquater Bewegung. Das Ziel der vorliegenden Arbeit war es zu prüfen, inwiefern ein klinikeigenes Trainingsprogramm herkömmlichen multimodalen Therapieregimen im Hinblick auf die Gewichts- und BMI-Reduktion ebenbürtig oder gar überlegen ist. Zugleich wurde der Einfluss der Trainingsmaßnahmen auf den Blutdruck, den Blutzucker, das Cholesterin und die Lipoproteine untersucht. Insgesamt wurden 59 Adipositaspatienten per Losverfahren zwei Behandlungsgruppen zugeteilt, wobei die eine Gruppe traditionelle multimodale Therapiemaßnahmen (DOC-Weight®, DW) und die andere Gruppe ein klinikeigenes Training (SMART-Weight, SW) absolvierte, jeweils wöchentlich über einen Zeitraum von 12 Monaten. Das Studiendesign entsprach einer monozentrischen und randomisierten Untersuchung zweier Behandlungsgruppen. Die Datenaufnahme erfolgte zu drei Messzeitpunkten: zu Interventionsbeginn, nach 6 sowie nach 12 Monaten. 37 Patienten (63 %) nahmen bis zum Schluss an der Untersuchung teil. Beide Gruppen trainierten multimodal – die Faktoren Ernährung, Verhalten und Bewegung.

In beiden Gruppen ließen sich positive und statistisch signifikante Trainingseffekte hinsichtlich der Reduzierung des BMI und des Bauchumfangs nachweisen. Zudem reduzierte sich der diastolische Blutdruck nur in der Gruppe SW sehr signifikant. Gleichzeitig verminderte sich in dieser Gruppe das Cholesterin in signifikantem Umfang. In der vorliegenden Untersuchung sollte auch die Frage der Einflussfaktoren auf den Therapieerfolg (Reduzierung des BMI um 5 % nach 12 Monaten) geklärt werden. Es sind der Blutzuckerspiegel, der Bauchumfang und tendenziell das Geschlecht.

Die Untersuchungsergebnisse bestätigen die bekannten positiven Effekte multimodaler Therapien hinsichtlich der Reduzierung von BMI und Bauchumfang. Gleichzeitig konnte mit dem klinikeigenen Therapieprogramm eine Behandlungsalternative aufgezeigt werden, die eine nochmalige Verbesserung des diastolischen Blutdrucks und des Cholesterins mit sich bringt.
4D-Flow MRI: Technique and Applications
Authors: Sträter Alexandra , Huber Armin , Rudolph Jan , Berndt Maria , Rasper Michael , Rummeny Ernst , Nadjiri Jonathan
Published: August 2018

Background Blood flow through the cavities of the heart and great vessels is pulsatile and is subject to time and multidirectional variations. To date, the recording of blood flow in multiple directions and phases has been limited. 4D-flow MRI offers advantages for the recording, visualization and analysis of blood flow.

Method The status quo of the method was summarized through analysis with the PubMed database using the keywords “4D-flow MRI, phase-contrast magnetic resonance imaging, MR flow imaging/visualization, MR flow quantification, 3 D cine (time-resolved) phase-contrast CMR, three-directional velocity-encoding MRI”.

Results/Conclusion This review summarizes the current status of the technical development of 4D-flow MRI, discusses its advantages and disadvantages and describes clinical applications. Finally, the most important principles and parameters are explained to give the reader relevant information about clinical indications, postprocessing methods and limitations of the method.

Key Points: 

Citation Format
Alterations in Pharmacokinetics of Orally Administered Carbamazepine in Rats Treated with Sodium alginate: Possible Interaction between Therapeutic Drugs and Semi-solid Enteral Nutrients
Authors: Nagai Katsuhito , Omotani Sachiko , Ito Akihiko , Nishimura Ikumi , Hatsuda Yasutoshi , Mukai Junji , Teramachi Hitomi , Myotoku Michiaki
Published: August 2018

Objective The use of enteral nutrients plays an extremely important role in accurate nutrition management. Sodium alginate (SA) is frequently used for the semi-solidification of enteral nutrients. In the present study, we investigated whether the pharmacokinetic profile of orally administered carbamazepine (CBZ) is altered by a treatment with SA immediately before and after dosing of the drug. Furthermore, the adsorption effects of SA on CBZ were examined using an in vitro analysis.

Method SA was orally administered to rats just before and immediately after CBZ dosing. The CBZ concentration profile following its oral administration was analyzed by a non-compartmental method. The adsorption of CBZ onto SA was evaluated after centrifugation using an ultrafiltration device.

Findings The serum concentration of orally administered CBZ at each sampling point was reduced by the treatment with SA, and the extent of the decrease observed in the concentration of CBZ was larger when SA was ingested immediately after administration of the drug, which was consistent with the alteration observed in the value of the area under the curve (AUC). No significant differences were noted in the elimination rate at the terminal phase (ke) among the groups. In the in vitro assay, CBZ was adsorbed by SA in the solution used to reflect fluid in the intestinal tract.

Conclusions The pharmacological efficacies of CBZ might be reduced by SA through the pharmacokinetic interactions, and that the careful attention should be paid to the timing of administration of CBZ and semi-solid enteral nutrients.
Genome-Wide Association Study Links Receptor Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor Sprouty 2 to Thrombocytopenia after Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery
Authors: Karhausen Jörn , Qi Wenjing , Smeltz Alan , Li Yi-Ju , Shah Svati , Kraus William , Mathew Joseph , Podgoreanu Mihai , Kertai Miklos ,   for the Duke Perioperative Genetics Safety Outcomes (PEGASUS) Investigative Team
Published: August 2018

Introduction Thrombocytopenia after cardiac surgery independently predicts stroke, acute kidney injury and death. To understand the underlying risks and mechanisms, we analysed genetic variations associated with thrombocytopenia in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery.

Materials and Methods Study subjects underwent isolated on-pump CABG surgery at Duke University Medical Center. Post-operative thrombocytopenia was defined as platelet count < 100 × 109/L. Using a logistic regression model adjusted for clinical risk factors, we performed a genome-wide association study in a discovery cohort (n = 860) and validated significant findings in a replication cohort (n = 296). Protein expression was assessed in isolated platelets by immunoblot.

Results A total of 63 single-nucleotide polymorphisms met a priori discovery thresholds for replication, but only 1 (rs9574547) in the intergenic region upstream of sprouty 2 (SPRY2) met nominal significance in the replication cohort. The minor allele of rs9574547 was associated with a lower risk for thrombocytopenia (discovery cohort, odds ratio, 0.45, 95% confidence interval, 0.30–0.67, p = 9.76 × 10−5) with the overall association confirmed by meta-analysis (meta-p = 7.88 × 10−6). Immunoblotting demonstrated expression of SPRY2 and its dynamic regulation during platelet activation. Treatment with a functional SPRY2 peptide blunted platelet extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) phosphorylation after agonist stimulation.

Conclusion We identified the association of a genetic polymorphism in the intergenic region of SPRY2 with a decreased incidence of thrombocytopenia after CABG surgery. Because SPRY2—an endogenous receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor—is present in platelets and modulates essential signalling pathways, these findings support a role for SPRY2 as a novel modulator of platelet responses after cardiac surgery.
Benefit of Risk Score-Guided Prophylaxis in Pregnant Women at Risk of Thrombotic Events: A Controlled Before-and-After Implementation Study
Authors: Chauleur Céline , Gris Jean-Christophe , Laporte Silvy , Chapelle Céline , Bertoletti Laurent , Equy Véronique , Gaucherand Pascal , Bazan Eva , Dupuis Olivier , Gallot Denis , Mismetti Patrick ,   The STRATHEGE Investigators and The STRATHEGE Group
Published: August 2018

Background Management of pregnant women at risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) and placental vascular complications (PVCs) remains complex. Guidelines do not definitively specify optimal strategies.

Objective Our objective was to evaluate the impact of employing risk score-driven prophylaxis strategies on VTE and PVC rates in at-risk pregnant women.

Materials and Methods This study, conducted in 21 French maternity units, compared VTE and PVC rates before and after implementation of a risk scoring system to determine prophylactic strategies.

Results A total of 2,085 pregnant women at risk of VTE or PVC were enrolled. Vascular events occurred in 190 (19.2%) patients before and 140 (13.0%) after implementation of risk score-driven prophylaxis (relative risk [RR] = 0.68 [0.55; 0.83]). The incidence of deep vein thrombosis during pregnancy was reduced (RR = 0.30 [0.14; 0.67]). PVC comprised mainly pre-eclampsia, occurring in 79 patients before and 42 patients after risk score implementation (RR = 0.52 [0.36; 0.75]). Post-partum haemorrhage occurred in 32 patients (3.2%) before and 48 patients (4.5%) after risk score implementation (RR = 1.38 [0.89; 2.13], p = 0.15).

Conclusion Use of a simple risk scoring system, developed by experts in VTE and PVC research to guide prophylaxis, reduced the risk of thrombotic events during pregnancy without any significant increase in bleeding risk.
Thromboembolism Incidence and Risk Factors in Children with Cancer: A Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Pelland-Marcotte Marie-Claude , Pole Jason , Kulkarni Ketan , Athale Uma , Stammers David , Sabapathy Christine , Halparin Jessica , Brandão Leonardo , Sung Lillian
Published: August 2018

There is conflicting information about the epidemiology of thromboembolism (TE) in paediatric oncology. Objectives were to describe the incidence and risk factors of TE in children with cancer. We included all children with cancer less than 15 years of age diagnosed from 2001 to 2016, treated at one of the 12 Canadian paediatric centres outside of Ontario and entered into the Cancer in Young People-Canada database. Potential risk factors for TE were evaluated using Cox proportional hazards regression stratified by haematological malignancies versus solid tumours. Factors associated with vascular access- and non-vascular access-related TE were compared using chi-square or Fisher's exact tests. Of the 7,471 children included, 283 experienced TE requiring medical intervention; cumulative incidence of TE at 5 years was 3.8 ± 0.2% and 0.36% ± 0.07% for life-threatening or fatal TE. For haematological malignancies, the following factors were associated with TE in multivariable regression: age < 1 year, 5 to 9.99 years and 10 to 14.99 years (relative to age 1–4.99 years), haematopoietic stem cell transplant (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.49, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.00–2.32), anthracyclines (HR = 2.21, 95% CI, 1.12–4.37) and asparaginase (HR = 1.68, 95% CI, 1.15–2.44). For solid tumours, obesity (HR = 1.92, 95% CI, 1.01–3.68), surgery (HR = 2.70, 95% CI, 1.44–5.08), radiation (HR = 47.51, 95% CI, 24.01–94.01), anthracyclines (HR = 2.74, 95% CI, 1.29–5.82) and platinum agents (HR = 2.26, 95% CI, 1.19–4.28) were associated with TE. Life-threatening and fatal TEs were more common among non-vascular access TEs (14.5% vs. 3.3% p = 0.001). In a population-based cohort, 4% of children with cancer developed a clinically significant TE. Accurate risk stratification tools are needed specific to malignancy type.
Bending stability of Cu0.4CrO2—A transparent p-type conducting oxide for large area flexible electronics
Authors: Norton E. , Farrell L. , Zhussupbekova A. , Mullarkey D. , Caffrey D. , Papanastasiou D. T. , Oser D. , Bellet D. , Shvets I. V. , Fleischer K.
Published: August 2018

The current best performing p-type transparent conducting oxides are typically highly crystalline materials, deposited at high temperatures, and hence incompatible with the drive to low cost flexible electronics. We investigated a nanocrystalline, copper deficient CuxCrO2, deposited at low temperatures upon a flexible polyimide substrate. The as-deposited film without post annealing has an electrical conductivity of 6Scm−1. We demonstrate that this p-type transparent oxide retains its excellent electrical conductivity under tensile strain, withstanding more than one thousand bending cycles without visible cracks or degradation in electrical properties. In contrast, compressive strain is shown to lead to an immediate reduction in conductivity which we attribute to a de-lamination of the thin film from the substrate.
An ultraviolet-visible-near infrared overview spectroscopy for divertor plasma diagnosis on Wendelstein 7-X
Authors: Wei Y. , Wang E. , Liang Y. , Brezinsek S. , Schweer B. , Krychowiak M. , Neubauer O. , König R. , Sereda S. , Linsmeier Ch. ,   W7-X Team
Published: August 2018

A new ultraviolet-visible-near infrared (UV-VIS-NIR) overview spectroscopy has been developed for routinely monitoring divertor recycling, intrinsic and extrinsic impurity fluxes on Wendelstein 7-X (W7-X). The overview spectroscopy is part of a large integrated system which allows several diagnostic systems to share the same field of view through an endoscope. During the first divertor operation phase on W7-X, a temporary view port was setup for the overview spectroscopy in order to investigate the divertor plasmas and provide reference data for the commissioning of the whole integrated endoscope system. The overview spectroscopy uses a 5-channel spectrometer to cover the wavelength range 300-1100 nm. The reciprocal linear dispersion of the spectrometer are in the range of 0.04-0.19 nm/pixel. The spatial coverage of the system is 10 cm in the vertical direction and 20 cm in the toroidal direction. The first full spectral survey identified H, He, C, O, Fe, Ne, N and Ar lines. The temporal evolutions of hydrogen and impurity radiation with maximum 10 ms resolution were obtained. Spectra fall in the range of filter transmission curves have been investigated for the filter camera systems which will be commissioned along with the endoscope in the next operation phase.
Low frequency acoustic energy harvester based on a planar Helmholtz resonator
Authors: Yuan Ming , Cao Ziping , Luo Jun , Pang Zongqiang
Published: August 2018

A novel acoustic energy harvester (AEH) based on an acoustic Helmholtz resonator is proposed in this research to harvest low frequency acoustic energy. The height of the resonator is deep subwavelength of the interesting sound wave, meaning that the overall structure is compact. The neck component is designed as tapered form, specifically to reduce the influence of acoustic resistance. The proposed Helmholtz resonator was evaluated using numerical simulation and experimental tests. In the comparison experiment, the proposed acoustic resonator is compared with an acoustic resonator with uniform neck configuration, and the measured results show the proposed structure can amplify low frequency sound effectively and the resonance frequency corresponds well with the numerical simulation. A PZT-5H piezoelectric patch, bonded to the top side of the AEH, is used to convert mechanical strain energy into electrical power. Experimental results illustrate that under 100 dB SPL excitation, maximum 27.2 μW power can be harvested at 217 Hz and maximum 64.4 μW power can be harvested at 341 Hz. These results correspond to acoustic and mechanical resonance respectively.
Efficient Hydrolytic Breakage of β-1,4-Glycosidic Bond Catalyzed by a Difunctional Magnetic Nanocatalyst
Authors: Yang Ren-Qiang , Zhang Ni , Meng Xiang-Guang , Liao Xiao-Hong , Li Lu , Song Hong-Jin
Published: August 2018

A novel difunctional magnetic nanocatalyst (DMNC) was prepared and used to catalyse the hydrolytic breakage of β-1,4-glycosidic bonds. The functional nanoparticle displayed excellent catalytic activity for hydrolysis of cellobiose to glucose under moderate conditions. The conversion of cellobiose and yield of glucose could reach 95.3 and 91.1 %, respectively, for a reaction time of 6 h at pH 4.0 and 130°C. DMNC was also an efficient catalyst for the hydrolysis of cellulose: 53.9 % microcrystalline cellulose was hydrolyzed, and 45.7 % reducing sugar was obtained at pH 4.0 and 130°C after 10 h. The magnetic catalyst could be recycled and reused five times without significant loss of catalytic activity.
Farming and cranes on the Atherton Tablelands, Australia
Authors: Nevard Timothy D. , Leiper Ian , Archibald George , Garnett Stephen T.
Published: August 2018

Australia’s two cranes, the brolga (Antigone rubicunda) and Australian sarus crane (Antigone antigone gillae), form dry-season flocks on the Atherton Tablelands in north Queensland, Australia, where they forage almost exclusively amongst planted crops. The long-term relationship between cranes and farmers is therefore critical to their conservation, especially as the cranes can sometimes cause significant economic damage to crops. We interviewed farmers to explore their current attitudes to cranes and their intentions for land use that might affect the birds. We found that most farmers tolerated the cranes, particularly when they feed among stubble. Most, however, are increasing the efficiency of their agronomic practices, harvesting combinable crops such as maize and peanuts in ways that are beginning to reduce post-harvest crop residues. There is also a rapid trend away from field crops to perennial and tree crops that have a higher return per unit area. Both trends may reduce foraging opportunities for the cranes and, unless managed effectively, are likely to increase the potential for damage and conflict with farmers in the field crops that remain.
Artificial blastocyst collapse prior to vitrification significantly improves Na+/K+-ATPase-dependent post-warming blastocoel re-expansion kinetics without inducing endoplasmic reticulum stress gene expression in the mouse
Authors: Frank L. A. , Rose R. D. , Anastasi M. R. , Tan T. C. Y. , Barry M. F. , Thompson J. G. , Brown H. M.
Published: August 2018

Blastocoel expansion during embryo development is known to be reliant on the Na+/K+-ATPase pump, but little is known about the relative contribution of active (Na+/K+-ATPase pump) and facilitated diffusion (aquaporins) water transport during blastocoel re-expansion after vitrification. The aims of this study were to examine potential effects of artificial blastocoel collapse (ABC) on markers of embryo stress and the contribution of active and facilitated diffusion water transport mechanisms to blastocoel re-expansion. Day 5 mouse embryos were vitrified using either a standard protocol, laser pulse ABC, a hyperosmotic sucrose ABC protocol or both laser pulse and sucrose. Using real-time polymerase chain reaction, no differences were found in the gene expression of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress markers activating transcription factor 4 (Atf4) or heat shock protein 90-alpha (Hsp90α) 2h after warming. Similarly, expression of the Na+/K+-ATPase pump gene, ATPase, Na+/K+ transporting, beta 1 polypeptide (Atp1b1) and protein did not differ between groups. Aquaporin 8 (Aqp8) gene expression was significantly lower in the laser+sucrose ABC group than in fresh controls, and aquaporin 3 (Aqp3) expression significantly higher in standard vitrified embryos compared with all other groups. Ouabain, a potent and specific Na+/K+-ATPase pump inhibitor, inhibited blastocoel re-expansion in both standard protocol- and laser ABC-vitrified embryos, reducing both groups to the same rate of re-expansion 3h after warming. These results demonstrate that ABC before vitrification does not alter mRNA or protein expression of Na+/K+-ATPase, or mRNA levels of ER stress genes Atf4 and Hsp90α. Activity of the pump may be increased in ABC embryos, with potential compensation by AQP3 when it is compromised.
The effect of acute caffeine ingestion on upper body anaerobic exercise and cognitive performance
Authors: Duncan Michael J. , Dobell Alexandra P. , Caygill Chloe L. , Eyre Emma , Tallis Jason
Published: August 2018

The current study examined the effect of acute caffeine ingestion on mean and peak power production during upper body Wingate test (WANT) performance, rating of perceived exertion, readiness to invest effort and cognitive performance. Using a double‐blind design, 12 males undertook upper body WANTs, following ingestion of caffeine (5 mg*kg−1) or placebo. Pre‐substance ingestion, 60 mins post substance ingestion and post exercise participants completed measures of readiness to invest physical and mental effort and cognitive performance. Peak power was significantly higher (P = .026), fatigue index greater (P = .02) and rating of perceived exertion lower (P = .025) in the presence of caffeine. Readiness to invest physical effort was also higher (P = .016) in the caffeine condition irrespective of time point (pre, 60 mins post ingestion and post exercise). Response accuracy for incongruent trials on the Flanker task was superior in the presence of caffeine (P = .006). There was a significant substance × time interaction for response speed in both congruent and incongruent conditions (both P = .001) whereby response speeds were faster at 60 mins post ingestion and post exercise in the caffeine condition, compared to placebo. This is the first study to examine the effects of caffeine ingestion on this modality of exercise and suggests that caffeine ingestion significantly enhances peak power, readiness to invest physical effort, and cognitive performance during WANT performance.