bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of impact of α‐Fe2O3 and γ‐Fe2O3 nanoparticles on phytoplankton species Selenastrum capricornutum and Nannochloropsis oculata
Authors: Ates Mehmet , Cimen Isil C. C. , Unal Ilkay , Kutlu Banu , Ertit Tastan Burcu , Danabas Durali , Aksu Onder , Arslan Zikri
Published: November 2019

In this study, the impact of alpha‐iron oxide (α‐Fe2O3, 20‐40 nm) and gamma iron oxide (γ‐Fe2O3, 20‐40 nm) nanoparticles (NPs) on phytoplankton species Selenastrum capricornutum and Nannochloropsis oculata was investigated Characterizations of the NPs were systematically carried out by TEM, dynamic light scattering, zeta potential, X‐ray diffraction, SEM, and Fourier transformation infrared spectroscopy. Acute toxicity was tested between 0.2 and 50 mg/L for each NP for a period of 72 hours exposure. γ‐Fe2O3 NP inhibited development of N oculata at the rate of 54% in 0.2 mg/L group with a high mortality rate of up to 82%. α‐Fe2O3 NPs were less toxic that induced 97% mortality on N oculata at 10 mg/L suspensions. In contrast, α‐Fe2O3 NP inhibited growth of S capricornutum strongly (73%) in 0.2 mg/L group. γ‐Fe2O3 NPs showed similar growth inhibition (72%) on S capricornutum in 10 mg/L suspensions. Despite the differential effects, the results indicated acute toxicity of α‐Fe2O3 and γ‐Fe2O3 NPs on N oculata and S capricornutum.
Quantum K-theory of Calabi-Yau manifolds
Authors: Jockers Hans , Mayr Peter
Published: November 2019

Abstract

The disk partition function of certain 3d N = 2 supersymmetric gauge theories computes a quantum K-theoretic ring for Kähler manifolds X. We study the 3d gauge theory/quantum K-theory correspondence for global and local Calabi-Yau manifolds with several K¨ahler moduli. We propose a multi-cover formula that relates the 3d BPS world- volume degeneracies computed by quantum K-theory to Gopakumar-Vafa invariants.
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and cardiovascular disease: assessing the evidence for causality
Authors: Brouwers Martijn C. G. J. , Simons Nynke , Stehouwer Coen D. A. , Isaacs Aaron
Published: November 2019

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is highly prevalent among individuals with type 2 diabetes. Although epidemiological studies have shown that NAFLD is associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD), it remains unknown whether NAFLD is an active contributor or an innocent bystander. Plasma lipids, low-grade inflammation, impaired fibrinolysis and hepatokines are potential mediators of the relationship between NAFLD and CVD. The Mendelian randomisation approach can help to make causal inferences. Studies that used common variants in PNPLA3, TM6SF2 and GCKR as instruments to investigate the relationship between NAFLD and coronary artery disease (CAD) have reported contrasting results. Variants in PNPLA3 and TM6SF2 were found to protect against CAD, whereas variants in GCKR were positively associated with CAD. Since all three genes have been associated with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, the second stage of NAFLD, the question of whether low-grade inflammation is an important mediator of the relationship between NAFLD and CAD arises. In contrast, the differential effects of these genes on plasma lipids (i.e. lipid-lowering for PNPLA3 and TM6SF2, and lipid-raising for GCKR) strongly suggest that plasma lipids account for their differential effects on CAD risk. This concept has recently been confirmed in an extended set of 12 NAFLD susceptibility genes. From these studies it appears that plasma lipids are an important mediator between NAFLD and CVD risk. These findings have important clinical implications, particularly for the design of anti-NAFLD drugs that also affect lipid metabolism.
Surgeon‐Performed Vacuum‐Assisted Biopsy of the Breast: Results from a Multicentre Australian Study
Authors: Bennett Ian , de Viana Daniel , Law Michael , Saboo Apoorva
Published: November 2019

Background

Image‐guided interventional techniques such as vacuum‐assisted biopsy are being increasingly utilised in the diagnosis and management of breast conditions. The purpose of this study was to report the outcome of a series of vacuum‐assisted biopsies and vacuum‐assisted excisions performed by specialist breast surgeons in a largely outpatient setting.

Methods

An Australian multicentre trial of ultrasound‐guided surgeon‐performed vacuum‐assisted biopsy (VAB) and vacuum‐assisted excision (VAE) of breast lesions was conducted involving three surgeons in three participating centres. VAEs were performed for presumed or proven benign breast lesions only.

Results

A total of 225 surgeon‐performed ultrasound‐guided vacuum‐assisted procedures were undertaken in 197 patients. Of the 225 VAB procedures, 51 (22.7%) were performed as diagnostic cores and 174 (77.3%) were undertaken as core excisions. Of the 174 VAE procedures undertaken with intent of completely excising the lesion, successful excision of the lesion was achieved in 165 of these cases (94.8%), with complete excision being judged by the absence of any lesion seen on ultrasound following the procedure or the absence of the lesion on a subsequent interval ultrasound examination. A total of 199 procedures were performed in the outpatients setting under local anaesthesia, and 26 procedures were performed in an operating theatre setting under neurolept anaesthesia. The average size of lesions was 19.3 mm in the diagnostic core group and 10.6 mm in the core excision group. The average time for either procedure was approximately 14 min.

Conclusion

Specialist breast surgeons familiar with ultrasound can be readily upskilled to perform vacuum‐assisted procedures safely and expeditiously. VAE represents a minimally invasive method of breast lesion management and is a technique with which breast surgeons should become adept.
Development of a Visual Analytics Tool for Polytrauma Patients: Proof of Concept for a New Assessment Tool Using a Multiple Layer Sankey Diagram in a Single‐Center Database
Authors: Mica Ladislav , Niggli Cedric , Bak Peter , Yaeli Avi , McClain Margaret , Lawrie Charles M. , Pape Hans‐Christoph
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Early physiological assessment of multiple injured patients is crucial for decision making and has relied on personal experience of trauma experts. We have developed a new visual analytics tool (Sankey diagram, Watson Trauma Health care tool) that includes known prognostic parameters for polytrauma patients to help guide assessment and treatment decisions for physicians involved in trauma care.

Methods

A prospectively collected trauma database of a single level I trauma center (3655 patients) was used. Inclusion criteria: age >16 years, an injury severity score (ISS) >16 and presence of a complete data set in the database. Data collected included admission values of patient age, injury scoring, shock classification, temperature, acid–base and hemostasis parameters. All of these parameters were collected daily as longitudinal parameters. Endpoints of the clinical course we considered were sepsis, SIRS and early in hospital mortality (<72 h). A proof of concept of the visualization was developed over a 2‐year period in a cooperation between physicians and engineers. Statistically, the most predictive parameters were selected by binary logistic regression and ROC analysis.

Results

A dynamic interactive multilayer Sankey diagram, based on cohort similarities, was developed in a collaboration between the University Hospital of Zurich, Department of Trauma and IBM, from August 2017 until January 2018. It is a modular tool and allows any user to add a new patient, or work with an existing case. The visualization used the data‐driven documents (D3) interactive visualization library to create a responsive graphic.

Conclusions

This application summarizes the experience of 3655 polytrauma patients and might serve as a guide for clinical decisions and educative purposes, as well as new scientific questions for the polytrauma patient.

Level of evidence

IV.
Amoebic Liver Abscesses in Fiji: Epidemiology, Clinical Presentation and Comparison of Percutaneous Aspiration and Percutaneous Catheter Drainage
Authors: Vakamacawai Esala , McCaig Eddie , Waqainabete Ifereimi , Cox Michael R.
Published: November 2019

Background

Amoebic liver abscess (ALA) is a common clinical problem in tropical countries related to poor sanitation. The epidemiology and clinical presentation of ALA in Fiji has not been previously described. It is unclear whether percutaneous aspiration (PA) or percutaneous catheter drainage (PCD) has better outcomes.

Purpose

The aims were to describe the epidemiology and clinical presentation of ALA in Fiji and to compare the outcomes of PA and PCD for treatment of ALA.

Methods

A retrospective case note review of patients treated with either PA or PCD between 2010 and 2015 was performed. Indications for intervention were ALA > 5 cm, ALA in the left lateral lobe, risk of imminent rupture and failure to respond to medical treatment.

Results

There were 262 patients, 90% were male, 92.9% I‐Taukei ethnicity and 86.2% regular recreational kava drinkers. Most presented with upper abdominal pain and fevers. The majority (90.3%) had a single abscess with 87.8% being in the right lobe. 174 (66.4%) had LA and 88 (33.6%) had PCD. There was an unintended selection bias for PA in abscess with a volume of <1 litre. PA was associated with a more rapid resolution of fever and shorter hospital stay, more rapid resolution of the cavity and no morbidity. PCD had five complications, one bleed and four bile leaks. There was no mortality in either group.

Conclusions

ALA in Fiji occurs in I‐Taukei males who drink kava. PA appears to offer equivalent if not better outcomes for treatment of ALA.
The Effect of Resection Margin Distance and Invasive Component Size on Recurrence After Sublobar Resection in Patients With Small (≤2 Cm) Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Moon Youngkyu , Park Jae Kil , Lee Kyo Young
Published: November 2019

Background

When performing sublobar resection for lung cancer, the margin distance should exceed the tumor size. However, instead of total tumor size, the 8th edition TNM staging system has adopted the size of invasive component for the T stage. The aim of this study was to determine whether the prognosis was satisfactory when the resection margin distance was greater than the invasive component size instead of the total tumor size.

Methods

From 2008 to 2017, 193 consecutive patients were diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma (invasive component size ≤2 cm) and underwent sublobar resection. We analyzed risk factors for recurrence using clinicopathological factors including margin/invasive component ratio (resection margin distance/invasive component size).

Results

Mean tumor size was 1.4 (±0.5) cm and the mean invasive component size was 0.8 cm (±0.5). In the multivariate analysis, neither resection margin distance (cm) nor margin/tumor ratio (resection margin distance/tumor size) was significant risk factors for recurrence. On the other hand, the margin/invasive component ratio (hazard ratio =0.035, p = 0.043) and the SUVmax (hazard ratio =1.993, p = 0.033) were significant risk factors for recurrence.

Conclusions

When sublobar resection is performed for small (invasive component size ≤2 cm) adenocarcinomas of the lung, the resection margin distance should be larger than the invasive component size. Sublobar resection is not an appropriate treatment for lung adenocarcinoma with high SUVmax.
Diagnostic performance of tomoelastography of the liver and spleen for staging hepatic fibrosis
Authors: Reiter Rolf , Tzschätzsch Heiko , Schwahofer Florian , Haas Matthias , Bayerl Christian , Muche Marion , Klatt Dieter , Majumdar Shreyan , Uyanik Meltem , Hamm Bernd , Braun Jürgen , Sack Ingolf , Asbach Patrick
Published: November 2019

Objectives

To determine the diagnostic performance, cut-off values, and optimal drive frequency range for staging hepatic fibrosis using tomoelastography by multifrequency MR elastography of the liver and spleen.

Methods

This prospective study consecutively enrolled a total of 61 subjects between June 2014 and April 2017: 45 patients with chronic liver disease and proven stage of fibrosis and 16 healthy volunteers. Tomoelastography was performed at 1.5 T using six drive frequencies from 35 to 60 Hz. Cut-off values and AUC were calculated. Shear wave speed (in m/s) of the liver and spleen was assessed separately and in combination as a surrogate of stiffness.

Results

For compound multifrequency processing of the liver, cut-off and AUC values by fibrosis stage were as follows: F1, 1.52 m/s and 0.89; F2, 1.55 m/s and 0.94; F3, 1.67 m/s and 0.98; and F4, 1.72 m/s and 0.98. Diagnostic performance of the best single drive frequencies (45 Hz, 55 Hz, 60 Hz) was similar (mean AUC = 0.95, respectively). Combined analysis of the liver and spleen slightly improved performance at 60 Hz in F4 patients (mean AUC = 0.97 vs. 0.95, p = 0.03). Full-field-of-view elastograms displayed not only the liver and spleen but also small anatomical structures including the pancreas and major vessels.

Conclusion

Tomoelastography provides full-field-of-view elastograms with unprecedented detail resolution and excellent diagnostic accuracy for staging hepatic fibrosis. Our analysis of single-frequency tomoelastography suggests that scan time can be further reduced in future studies, making tomoelastography easier to implement in clinical routine.

Key Points

• Tomoelastography provides full-field-of-view elastograms of the abdomen with unprecedented detail resolution and excellent diagnostic accuracy for staging hepatic fibrosis.

• Diagnostic performance of single-frequency tomoelastography at higher frequencies (45 Hz, 55 Hz, 60 Hz) and compound multifrequency processing are equivalent for staging hepatic fibrosis.

• Combined assessment of hepatic and splenic stiffness slightly improves diagnostic performance for staging hepatic fibrosis.
An experimental study of the effects of lobed nozzles on installed jet noise
Authors: Lyu Benshuai , Dowling Ann P.
Published: November 2019

Jet noise remains a significant aircraft noise contributor, and for modern high-bypass-ratio aero-engines the strong interaction between the jet and aircraft wing leads to intensified installed jet noise. An experiment is carried out in this paper to study the effects of lobed nozzles on installed jet noise. It is found that the lobed nozzles, compared to round nozzles, have similar effects on installed jet noise for all the plate positions and Mach numbers tested. On the shielded side of the plate, the use of lobed nozzles leads to a noise reduction in the intermediate- and high-frequency regimes, which is thought to be due to a combination of enhanced jet mixing and more effective shielding effects by the flat plate. On the reflected side of the plate, noise reduction is only achieved in the intermediate frequency range; the little noise reduction or a slight noise increase observed in the high-frequency regime is likely due to enhanced jet mixing. On both sides of the plates, little noise reduction is achieved for the low-frequency noise due to the scattering of jet instability waves. This is likely to be caused by the fact that lobed nozzles cause negligible change to the dominant mode 0 (axisymmetric) jet instability waves. That the jet mean flow quickly becomes axisymmetric downstream of the jet exit could also play a role.

Graphic abstract
Survival in treated idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus
Authors: Andrén Kerstin , Wikkelsø Carsten , Sundström Nina , Israelsson Hanna , Agerskov Simon , Laurell Katarina , Hellström Per , Tullberg Mats
Published: November 2019

Objective

To describe survival and causes of death in 979 treated iNPH patients from the Swedish Hydrocephalus Quality Registry (SHQR), and to examine the influence of comorbidities, symptom severity and postoperative outcome.

Methods

All 979 patients operated for iNPH 2004–2011 and registered in the SHQR were included. A matched control group of 4890 persons from the general population was selected by Statistics Sweden. Data from the Swedish Cause of Death Registry was obtained for patients and controls.

Results

At a median 5.9 (IQR 4.2–8.1) year follow-up, 37% of the iNPH patients and 23% of the controls had died. Mortality was increased in iNPH patients by a hazard ratio of 1.81, 95% CI 1.61–2.04, p < 0.001. More pronounced symptoms in the preoperative ordinal gait scale and the Mini-mental State Examination were the most important independent predictors of mortality along with the prevalence of heart disease. Patients who improved in both the gait scale and in the modified Rankin Scale postoperatively (n = 144) had a similar survival as the general population (p = 0.391). Deaths due to cerebrovascular disease or dementia were more common in iNPH patients, while more controls died because of neoplasms or disorders of the circulatory system.

Conclusions

Mortality in operated iNPH patients is 1.8 times increased compared to the general population, a lower figure than previously reported. The survival of iNPH patients who improve in gait and functional independence is similar to that of the general population, indicating that shunt surgery for iNPH, besides improving symptoms and signs, can normalize survival.
Heterogeneity of executive functions among preschool children with psychiatric symptoms
Authors: Teivaanmäki Sini , Huhdanpää Hanna , Kiuru Noona , Aronen Eeva T. , Närhi Vesa , Klenberg Liisa
Published: November 2019

The aim of the present study was to investigate associations between internalizing and externalizing symptoms and deficits in executive functions (EF) as well as to examine the overall heterogeneity of EFs in a sample of preschool children attending a psychiatric clinic (n = 171). First, based on cut-off points signifying clinical levels of impairment on the parent-completed Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL), children were assigned into groups of internalizing, externalizing, combined or mild symptoms and compared to a reference group (n = 667) with regard to day care teacher ratings of EFs on the Attention and Executive Function Rating Inventory-Preschool (ATTEX-P). Second, latent profile analysis (LPA) was employed to identify distinct subgroups of children representing different EF profiles with unique strengths and weaknesses in EFs. The first set of analyses indicated that all symptom groups had more difficulties in EFs than the reference group did, and the internalizing group had less inhibition-related problems than the other symptom groups did. Using LPA, five EF profiles were identified: average, weak average, attentional problems, inhibitory problems, and overall problems. The EF profiles were significantly associated with gender, maternal education level, and psychiatric symptom type. Overall, the findings suggest that the comparison of means of internalizing and externalizing groups mainly captures the fairly obvious differences in inhibition-related domains among young psychiatric outpatient children, whereas the person-oriented approach, based on individual differences, identifies heterogeneity related to attentional functions, planning, and initiating one’s action. The variability in EF difficulties suggests that a comprehensive evaluation of a child’s EF profile is important regardless of the type of psychiatric symptoms the child presents with.
Hinge/floating craniotomy as an alternative technique for cerebral decompression: a scoping review
Authors: Layard Horsfall Hugo , Mohan Midhun , Devi B. Indira , Adeleye Amos O. , Shukla Dhaval P. , Bhat Dhananjaya , Khan Mukhtar , Clark David J. , Chari Aswin , Servadei Franco , Khan Tariq , Rubiano Andres M. , Hutchinson Peter J. , Kolias Angelos G.
Published: November 2019

Hinge craniotomy (HC) is a technique that allows for a degree of decompression whilst retaining the bone flap in situ, in a ‘floating’ or ‘hinged’ fashion. This provides expansion potential for ensuing cerebral oedema whilst obviating the need for cranioplasty in the future. The exact indications, technique and outcomes of this procedure have yet to be determined, but it is likely that HC provides an alternative technique to decompressive craniectomy (DC) in certain contexts. The primary objective was to collate and describe the current evidence base for HC, including perioperative parameters, functional outcomes and complications. The secondary objective was to identify current nomenclature, operative technique and operative decision-making. A scoping review was performed in accordance with the PRISMA-ScR Checklist. Fifteen studies totalling 283 patients (mean age 45.1 and M:F 199:46) were included. There were 12 different terms for HC. The survival rate of the cohort was 74.6% (n = 211). Nine patients (3.2%) required subsequent formal DC. Six studies compared HC to DC following traumatic brain injury (TBI) and stroke, finding at least equivalent control of intracranial pressure (ICP). These studies also reported reduced rates of complications, including infection, in HC compared to DC. We have described the current evidence base of HC. There is no evidence of substantially worse outcomes compared to DC, although no randomised trials were identified. Eventually, a randomised trial will be useful to determine if HC should be offered as first-line treatment when indicated.
Coupled Thermal-Mechanical Progressive Damage Model with Strain and Heating Rate Effects for Lightning Strike Damage Assessment
Authors: Millen S. L. J. , Murphy A. , Catalanotti G. , Abdelal G.
Published: November 2019

This paper proposes a progressive damage model incorporating strain and heating rate effects for the prediction of composite specimen damage resulting from simulated lightning strike test conditions. A mature and robust customised failure model has been developed. The method used a scaling factor approach and non-linear degradation models from published works to modify the material moduli, strength and stiffness properties to reflect the effects of combined strain and thermal loading. Hashin/Puck failure criteria was used prior to progressive damage modelling of the material. Each component of the method was benchmarked against appropriate literature. A three stage modelling framework was demonstrated where an initial plasma model predicts specimen surface loads (electrical, thermal, pressure); a coupled thermal-electric model predicts specimen temperature resulting from the electrical load; and a third, dynamic, coupled temperature-displacement, explicit model predicts the material state due to the thermal load, the resulting thermal-expansion and the lightning plasma applied pressure loading. Unprotected specimen damage results were presented for two SAE lightning test Waveforms (B & A); with the results illustrating how thermal and mechanical damage behaviour varied with waveform duration and peak current.
Data-driven Koopman operator approach for computational neuroscience
Authors: Marrouch Natasza , Slawinska Joanna , Giannakis Dimitrios , Read Heather L.
Published: November 2019

This article presents a novel, nonlinear, data-driven signal processing method, which can help neuroscience researchers visualize and understand complex dynamical patterns in both time and space. Specifically, we present applications of a Koopman operator approach for eigendecomposition of electrophysiological signals into orthogonal, coherent components and examine their associated spatiotemporal dynamics. This approach thus provides enhanced capabilities over conventional computational neuroscience tools restricted to analyzing signals in either the time or space domains. This is achieved via machine learning and kernel methods for data-driven approximation of skew-product dynamical systems. The approximations successfully converge to theoretical values in the limit of long embedding windows. First, we describe the method, then using electrocorticographic (ECoG) data from a mismatch negativity experiment, we extract time-separable frequencies without bandpass filtering or prior selection of wavelet features. Finally, we discuss in detail two of the extracted components, Beta ($ \sim $∼13 Hz) and high Gamma ($ \sim $∼50 Hz) frequencies, and explore the spatiotemporal dynamics of high- and low- frequency components.
Sprego: case study on the effectiveness of teaching spreadsheet management with schema construction
Authors: Csapó Gábor , Csernoch Mária , Abari Kálmán
Published: November 2019

In the modern, information driven society managing and handling data is unavoidable. The most common form of data handling is to organize data into tables and complete operations on them in spreadsheets. Sprego (Spreadsheet Lego) is a programming-oriented methodology focusing on schemata construction and authentic problem-solving working with only a limited number of general-purpose functions. In our current study the goal is to present Sprego as an alternative method for spreadsheeting, and to measure its effectiveness in education compared to the traditional surface approach methods. We also aim to highlight the advantages of teaching datamanagement, spreadsheeting, and introduction to programming by applying an algorithmic and schemata centric method in a user-friendly interface. The teaching and testing were carried out in three classes of a local middle and high school with two experimental and one control groups. Based on our results, it is found that the Sprego methodology is significantly more effective than the traditional surface approach methods. Furthermore, it is also proved, in accordance with similar studies in sciences, that students, who had studied traditional spreadsheet management in advance to this experience, have difficulties switching to Sprego. Although these students alternate between the two approaches, our measurements clearly prove that the traditional approach is pushed into the background, as students prefer to solve problems using Sprego. Our findings also imply that traditional methods do not develop long-lasting knowledge which students could rely on, and have a negative effect on their development, while Sprego seems much more reliable.
Design Fire Characteristics for Probabilistic Assessments of Dwellings in England
Authors: Hopkin Charlie , Spearpoint Michael , Wang Yong , Hopkin Danny
Published: November 2019

In England, there are no fixed requirements on the parameters adopted when considering residential design fires, and analyses undertaken are often deterministic with limited consideration given to probabilistic assessments and the sensitivity of parameters. The Home Office dwelling fires dataset has been analysed, considering the fire damage area and the time from ignition to fire and rescue service arrival. From this, lognormal distributions for the maximum heat release rate (HRR) and fire growth rate of residential fires have been approximated. The mean maximum HRR ranges from 900 kW to 1900 kW, with a standard deviation ranging from 2000 kW to 3700 kW, depending on property type and room of fire origin. The mean growth rate, assuming a t2 relationship, ranges from 0.0022 kW/s2 to 0.0034 kW/s2, with a standard deviation ranging from 0.0071 kW/s2 to 0.0132 kW/s2. When considering incidents which result in immediate fire and rescue service call out following ignition, the mean growth rate increases to a range of 0.0058 kW/s2 to 0.0088 kW/s2. As a result of the analyses, design fire distributions are provided which can be adopted for probabilistic assessments. For deterministic analyses, it is proposed that an approximate 95th percentile fire may be adopted, aligning with a medium growth rate of 0.0117 kW/s2 and a maximum fuel-limited HRR in the region of 3800 kW to 4400 kW, depending on whether the dwelling is a house or an apartment. A 95th percentile design fire broadly aligns with values already specified in guidance, helping to substantiate the existing recommendations.
Biomass and phycocyanin content of heterotrophic Galdieria sulphuraria 074G under maltodextrin and granular starches–feeding conditions
Authors: Rahman Delicia Yunita , Sarian Fean Davisunjaya , van der Maarel Marc J. E. C.
Published: November 2019

A major disadvantage of microalgal cultivation is limited biomass yields due to the autotrophic lifestyle of most microalgal species. Heterotrophic growth on a suitable carbon source and oxygen can overcome such limitations. The red microalgaGaldieria sulphurariastrain 074G grows heterotrophically on glucose and a number of other carbon sources while constitutively producing photopigments, including the blue-colored phycocyanin, a natural food colorant.Galdieria sulphurariastrain 074G grew well on maltodextrins as well as on granular starch in combination with the enzyme cocktail Stargen002. The maltodextrin cultures produced 2 mg phycocyanin per gram substrate, being slightly more than on glucose. The phycocyanin extracted from maltodextrin-grown cultures was thermostable up to 55 °C. Maltodextrins can be a cheap alternative to glucose syrups for the production of phycocyanin as natural food colorant.
Remarks on Barnette’s conjecture
Authors: Florek Jan
Published: November 2019

Let P be a cubic 3-connected bipartite plane graph having a 2-factor which consists only of facial 4-cycles, and suppose that $$P^{*}$$P∗ is the dual graph. We show that P has at least $$3^{\left\lceil \frac{2|P^{*}|}{\varDelta ^{2}{(P^{*})}}\right\rceil }$$32|P∗|Δ2(P∗) different Hamilton cycles.
Influence of the increased content of Calumite blast-furnace slag on the melting of sodium–calcium–silicate glass
Authors: Kuśnierz Anna A. , Szumera Magdalena , Kosmal Magda , Pichniarczyk Paweł
Published: November 2019

A glass set with a high content of blast-furnace slag and a reduced amount of traditional raw materials requires optimization of the raw material composition and adjustment of its specificity to the temperature regime of melting, homogenizing and clarifying the glass mass. The introduction of an increased amount of blast-furnace slag allows to reduce the cost of raw materials: soda, limestone and high-class sand, reduce energy costs, whose consumption significantly decreases and reduces CO2 emissions in line with EU requirements. The tests of thermal analysis of a glass set with different contents of Calumite are aimed at learning the mechanism of its operation by determining the changes caused by its different presence in the course of subsequent reactions between the components of the glass set. Analysis of the influence of the addition of different Calumite slag contents treated as a substitute for the raw material on the melting process of glassware sets was analyzed. The tests were carried out using differential thermal analysis (DTA) and thermogravimetry (TG) based on the model glass [mass%]: 73.0% SiO2, 1.0% Al2O3, 10.0% CaO, 2.0% MgO and 14.0% Na2O. The effect of combining Calumite with sulphate and multi-component fining agent—mixtures of As2O3, Sb2O3, NaNO3 in proportions of 1:1:1 for chemical reaction and phase transformation, was investigated.
The Affective Creativity of a Couple in Dementia Care
Authors: Jeong Jong-min
Published: November 2019

The capacity to feel and express themselves in response to worldly surroundings is a defining feature of who a person living with dementia is, and can have profound effects on the ways in which they think, act and express creativity. Drawing on a year of intensive collaborative work with residents living with dementia in an Orthodox Jewish care home in London, I extend our perceptions and understandings of how a couple experiences their day-to-day lives, with particular attention paid to their affective practice in creativity. I demonstrate how the affective creativity of the couple emerges, circulates, and transforms as a spouse’s dementia develops, whilst feeling bodies continuously (re)make relations and familiarize themselves with the immediate surroundings through the making of artworks.
Entrepreneurial ecosystem elements
Authors: Stam Erik , van de Ven Andrew
Published: November 2019

There is a growing interest in ecosystems as an approach for understanding the context of entrepreneurship at the macro level of an organizational community. It consists of all the interdependent actors and factors that enable and constrain entrepreneurship within a particular territory. Although growing in popularity, the entrepreneurial ecosystem concept remains loosely defined and measured. This paper shows the value of taking a systems view of the context of entrepreneurship: understanding entrepreneurial economies from a systems perspective. We use a systems framework for studying entrepreneurial ecosystems, develop a measurement instrument of its elements, and use this to compose an entrepreneurial ecosystem index to examine the quality of entrepreneurial ecosystems in the Netherlands. We find that the prevalence of high-growth firms in a region is strongly related to the quality of its entrepreneurial ecosystem. Strong interrelationships among the ecosystem elements reveal their interdependence and need for a systems perspective.
Developing local entrepreneurial ecosystems through integrated learning initiatives: the Lancaster case
Authors: Pugh Rhiannon , Soetanto Danny , Jack Sarah L. , Hamilton Eleanor
Published: November 2019

This paper considers a concept gaining popularity: entrepreneurial ecosystems. It finds a significant lacuna in the concept as it stands as it does not sufficiently consider learning within regional ecosystems. Considering the established centrality of learning for entrepreneurial activity and regional development, it is surprising that the entrepreneurial ecosystem literature does not yet incorporate how learning occurs in time and space within regional ecosystems. This paper presents research conducted in the North West of England over (20) years examining programmes to support entrepreneurial and regional development. It argues that learning, and the pro-active support thereof, is crucial within an entrepreneurial ecosystem and should be fully considered within theoretical frameworks and policy blueprints designed to support and encourage entrepreneurship within regions. As a tangible suggestion of how to theoretically incorporate learning into entrepreneurship ecosystem development efforts, we present an integrated learning model developed by entrepreneurship scholars through collaborations with practitioners.
Synthesis, thermal, structural and electrical properties of vanadium-doped lithium-manganese-borate glass and nanocomposites
Authors: Jarocka Agata , Michalski Przemysław P. , Ryl Jacek , Wasiucionek Marek , Garbarczyk Jerzy E. , Pietrzak Tomasz K.
Published: November 2019

A glassy sample with a nominal formula LiMn1 − 3x/2VxBO3 (where x = 0.05) was synthesised using the melt-quenching method. Material was characterised by differential thermal analysis (DTA), X-ray diffactometry (XRD) at room temperature and as a function of temperature (HT-XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), impedance spectroscopy (IS) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Dependences of glass transition and crystallisation temperatures on the heating rate in DTA experiments were determined. The initial value of electrical conductivity of the glass was 1.4 × 10− 15 Scm− 1. It was significantly increased by a proper thermal nanocrystallisation. The maximum value was higher by 6 orders of magnitude and reached 2.6 × 10− 9 Scm− 1 at room temperature. Expected crystalline phases (i.e. monoclinic and hexagonal LiMnBO3) upon heating were identified and assigned to thermal events observed with DTA. Microstructure of nanocrystalline samples observed by SEM revealed nanocrystalline grains noticeably smaller than 100 nm. Results explaining nanocrystallisation process are coherent.
DRIFTS study of Fe promoter effect on Rh/Al2O3 catalyst for C2 oxygenates synthesis from syngas
Authors: Li Fang , Qian Weixing
Published: November 2019

DRIFTS experiments such as CO adsorption, CO-TPSR and CO+H2 were designated to study the effect of Fe promoter on the key steps of C2 oxygenates formation from syngas. The CO adsorption results demonstrated that Fe weakened CO adsorption and especially the bridging adsorption. It was found in CO-TPSR experiments that the catalyst with lower Fe loading is more easily dissociated while the ones with higher Fe loading own stronger hydrogenation activity. Moreover, it was observed by CO+H2 experiments that Fe plays a role in stabilizing the lineally adsorbed CO species and decreasing the CO desorption rate. The catalytic performance results indicated that when Fe content is 4wt. %, the selectivity of total C2 oxygenates is the highest, which was in accordance with the DRIFTS results.
Effect of microalga-based diet on oxidative stress enzymes of African catfish, Clarias gariepinus
Authors: Sharma Shaishav , Shah Ekta , Davla Deepti , Dixit Gaurav , Patel Aesha , Kumar Adepu Kiran
Published: November 2019

Here an indigenously isolated microalgal strainAscochlorisspp. cultivated in synthetic medium was evaluated as an aquaculture feed supplement. The daily dietary supplement includes microalgal feed (AF) and commercial diet feed (CF) (as control), respectively. These diets were fed separately to the juvenileClarias gariepinusfishes (n = 4) under controlled conditions for an experimental period of 100 days. The protein, glycogen and lipid contents in the muscle extracts were found to be marginally higher in fishes that were fed with CF than AF diet. Similarly, CF fishes showed significantly higher glutathione-s-transferase, catalase, superoxide dismutase, and lipid peroxidase activities, except glutathione content. Zero mortality of the fishes with no significant difference in the overall body mass with the two dietary supplements strongly suggests that algal biomass could supplement the requisite nutrients for their metabolic activities. This preliminary investigation helps in exploring algal biomass as a potential alternative feed additive in the aquaculture industry.
Experimental investigation of process parameters during graphitization of catalytic coke
Authors: Pourabdollah Kobra , Samadian Zakaria Masoud , Mir Najafizadeh Seyed Mohammad , Motaghedi Fatemeh
Published: November 2019

The aim of this project is studying the effect of thermal operation parameters on the graphitization of self-diffused ethane-based catalytic coke. The novelty of this study refers to self-diffused metals that had given unique properties to the catalytic coke and had improved the graphitization degree at low temperatures. The main feature of this research is presenting a remarkable energy saving approach that uses low-cost installations for production of graphitized carbon. The experiments were performed in two steps including preparation of self-diffused ethane-based catalytic coke and then low-temperature graphitization of coke samples below 1500 °C. Characteristic tests were performed by determination of electrical resistivity and XRD pattern of graphitized samples including graphitization degree, aromaticity, coke rank, number of carbon rings, graphene thickness and length. The results revealed that the blanket atmosphere, final temperature and exposure time had the greatest impact on the aforementioned criteria, while the role of thermal ramp and sulfur content of catalytic coke was negligible. The electrical resistivity tests on the graphitized sample showed how the electrical resistivity of graphitized samples is a function of graphitization degree.
Affective Atmospheres of Sexualized Hate Among Youth Online: A Contribution to Bullying and Cyberbullying Research on Social Atmosphere
Authors: Sylwander Kim R.
Published: November 2019

In this study, I will introduce the concept of affective atmospheres previously developed by Anderson (Emot Space Soc 2:77–81, 2009) and Anderson and Ash (2015), to explore young social media users’ articulated experiences of aggressive behaviour on a popular social networking site in Sweden. This concept opens up for inquiring into bullying, and other aggressive behaviour, as encounters, not only between humans, but also with non-human bodies, and the potentialities to act and the affective states that such meetings enable. In this way the paper contributes to bullying research on school climate and social atmosphere. The paper applies an affect theory approach to atmosphere to explore the importance of different materialities for the production of feelings and emotions surrounding the everyday articulations of hate among these users. The findings suggest that hate, in this context, works through a sexualized and gendered affective regime, which enforces a chrononormative logic, through which temporalized norms are tied to notions of age and bodily growth, that is, through heteronormative expectations of femininity, masculinity, sexuality and age-appropriateness. I found that affordances such as anonymity facilitated and intensified the circulation of hate, feeding into an atmosphere of constant risk. However, I also detail how affordances such as anonymity and hyperlinking, and practices such as hashtagging, enabled expressions of friendship, love and support, thus counter-balancing an atmosphere of hate and enabling it to become bearable for certain targeted users. In this context, sexualized aggression is normalized and expected, but nonetheless also troubled and resisted by these young users. By applying the concept of atmosphere, the paper sheds light on the affective workings within social online settings that become saturated with sexualized and aggressive practices, where certain users become repeated targets of such practices.
Large-scale triaxial and box testing on railroad ballast: a review
Authors: Alabbasi Yahia , Hussein Mohammed
Published: November 2019

The use of railway transportation systems has been increased throughout the years. The conventional ballasted tracks have been used widely in many countries around the world. Ballast material is the basic element of ballasted tracks. Ballast degrades and deforms after service. Therefore, periodical ballast maintenance is needed which is a cost and time expensive activity. Understanding ballast mechanical behavior leads to better design and efficient maintenance. From the literature, experimental approach is used to understand the mechanical behavior of railroad ballast. Traditional experimental tests provide inaccurate results due to the large ballast particle size with relative to sample size. Researchers used large scale triaxial and box tests extensively to understand the mechanical behavior of railroad ballast. The target of this paper is to present a concise review of the extensive literature presented on the mechanical behavior of railroad ballast using large scale triaxial and box testing. It discusses the various aspects of large-scale equipment such as apparatus’ set-up, size, material and shape, simulated load condition and test purpose. It presents the key findings of the large-scale triaxial and box tests in understanding ballast mechanical behavior.
The “Formally Feminist State”: A Potential New Player in the Inter-American Human Rights System?
Authors: García-Del Moral Paulina
Published: November 2019

A decade ago, the Inter-American Court of Human Rights issued a landmark judgment in the case of González and Others (“Cotton Field”) v. Mexico, which addressed the abduction and subsequent sexual murder of three young women in the industrial border city of Ciudad Juárez—a place known for systematic gender violence and impunity. For the victims’ next of kin and the feminist and human rights activists involved in the litigation, the murders constituted feminicidios (feminicides). The resulting judgment has been celebrated not only for developing new standards for women's human rights internationally, but also for its domestic impact in the form of innovative feminist laws and policies in Mexico and other Latin American countries. With a focus on Cotton Field’s impact on Mexico, this essay explores the potential rise of the “formally feminist state”—a state that adopts domestic feminist legislation and policies but then resists their implementation—as a new player on the stage of the inter-American human rights system (IAS). Drawing on insights from American sociolegal analyses on judicial deference to the presence of policies and institutional mechanisms as indicators of compliance with antidiscrimination laws, I suggest that this new player may create a different set of challenges for courts in assessing states’ lack of compliance with norms on women's human rights.
Institutional Investor Stewardship in the UK and Malaysia: Functionally Similar, Contextually Challenged
Authors: TAN Petrina Tjin Yi
Published: November 2019

Institutional investors are acknowledged as an influential force in markets worldwide. As a result of increased focus on the impact from the investing and shareholding practices of institutional investors, stewardship codes were first introduced in the UK, followed by Malaysia. This article evaluates the theory and practice of institutional investor stewardship in Malaysia through functional and contextual lenses, as juxtaposed against the more established position of stewardship in the UK. Notwithstanding an analogous legal framework for shareholder rights and the textual similarities of the UK Stewardship Code and Malaysian Code for Institutional Investors, the dominance of government-linked investment companies and government-linked companies in Malaysia results in a distinct set of issues in relation to institutional investor stewardship. This article then argues that the stewardship codes are in themselves insufficient in increasing the quality and scope of institutional investor engagement as they fail to address the underlying agency conflicts between the institutional investors and ultimate beneficiaries or clients. In learning from the UK's experience, it is important that Malaysian policymakers pay attention to the overarching structural factors and incentives driving institutional investor engagement alongside the development and take-up of the stewardship code.
Temporal trends of inpatient C. difficile infections within the Veterans Health Administration hospitals: An analysis of the effect of molecular testing, time to testing, and mandatory reporting
Authors: Sumon Zarchi E. , Lesse Alan J. , Sellick John A. , Tetewsky Sheldon , Mergenhagen Kari A.
Published: November 2019

Background:

Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) is a reportable hospital metric associated with significant healthcare expenditures. The epidemiology of CDI is pivotal to the implementation of preventative measures.

Objective:

To portray temporal CDI trends in Veterans Health Administration (VA) hospitals.

Design:

A retrospective analysis of veterans who had stool testing for C. difficile.

Setting:

VA acute-care hospitals within the continental United States.

Methods:

Data were mined from the VA’s Corporate Data Warehouse. CDI is reported per 10,000 patient days.

Results:

From 2006 to 2016, 472,346 patients had C. difficile testing. Overall, decreases in incidence of total CDI (16.81 to 13.66) and hospital-onset healthcare facility-associated (HO-HCFA) CDI (10.87 to 6.41) were observed. Temporal increases in the incidence of total and HO-HCFA CDI were associated with the increased use of molecular testing (P < .0001). Decreased use of fluoroquinolones (P < .0001), clindamycin (P = .0006), and third-generation cephalosporins (P = .0002) correlated with decreased rates of CDI, but VA mandatory reporting did not influence CDI rates (P = .24). The overall crude 30-day mortality of patients with CDI decreased from 2.17 deaths per 10,000 patient days in 2006 to 1.41 in 2016. The frequency of International Classification of Disease, Ninth/Tenth Revision (ICD-9/10) discharge diagnosis for CDI was 73.3%.

Conclusion:

Molecular testing was associated with increased incidence of CDI. Controlling CDI is likely multifactorial. Although the VA initiative to report cases of hospital-acquired CDI was not significant in our model, the advent of stewardship programs throughout the VA and reductions in the use of third-generation cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones, and clindamycin were significantly associated with reduced rates of CDI.