bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Psilocybin occasioned mystical‐type experiences
Authors: James Edward , Robertshaw Thomas L , Hoskins Mathew , Sessa Ben
Published: June 2020

Objective

Research into psychedelic therapy models has shown promise for the treatment of specific psychiatric conditions. Mystical‐type experiences occasioned by psilocybin have been correlated with therapeutic benefits and long‐term improvements in positive mental outlook and attitudes. This article aims to provide an overview of the topic, highlight strengths and weaknesses in current research, generate novel perspectives and discussion, and consider future avenues for research.

Design

This narrative review was designed to summarise and assess the state of research on psilocybin occasioned mystical‐type experiences and applications for the treatment of specific psychiatric conditions.

Results

Contemporary methods on the quantification of mystical‐type experiences and their acute subjective effects are discussed. Recent studies provide some understanding of the pharmacological actions of psychedelics although the neurological similarities and differences between spontaneous and psychedelic mystical‐type experiences are not well described. Applicability to modern clinical settings is assessed. Potential novel therapeutic applications include use in positive psychology interventions in healthy individuals.

Conclusions

Since 2006 significant advancements in understanding the therapeutic potential of psilocybin‐assisted psychotherapy have been made; however, more work is required to understand the neuromechanistic processes and applicability in modern clinical settings. Despite promising results in recent studies, funding issues for clinical trials, legal concerns and socio‐cultural resistance provide a counterpoint to experimental evidence.
Automatic segmentation of nuclei from pap smear cell images: A step toward cervical cancer screening
Authors: Somasundaram Devaraj , Gnanasaravanan Subramaniam , Madian Nirmala
Published: June 2020

Cervical cancer is identified as the fourth most recurrent cancer among women across the globe. The cancer is treatable, if identified at the early stage. Pap smear test is the most common and the best tool for initial screening of cancer. Pap smear cell level image analysis is an open issue. The limitation of the analysis is due to the complexity of the cell structure. The smear cell image is composed of cytoplasm and nucleus. The shape and structure of the nucleus determines the cancer prevalence. Segmentation of nucleus is an important step in cancer detection. There are various methods developed for nucleus segmentation. The article proposes multithresholding algorithm to segment cytoplasm and nucleus region from the background. Morphological operations are used for correcting the segmented output. Support vector machine classifier is used for classifying the smear cell as normal or abnormal based on the extracted features of the segmented output. The obtained accuracy of the classifier, sensitivity and specificity for single smear cell are 99.66%, 99.85% and 99.17%.
Changes in Bone Mineral Density During and After Lactation in Ugandan Women With HIV on Tenofovir-Based Antiretroviral Therapy
Authors: Nabwire Florence , Prentice Ann , Hamill Matthew M , Fowler Mary Glenn , Byamugisha Josaphat , Kekitiinwa Adeodata , Goldberg Gail R
Published: June 2020

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) in people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is associated with bone loss, but data are limited in lactation, when physiological bone mineral mobilization is occurring. This research charted changes in areal bone mineral density (aBMD) during and after lactation in Ugandan women with HIV (WWH) initiated onto ART in pregnancy, compared to women without HIV (REF). One-hundred WWH on tenofovir-based ART and 100 REF were enrolled in pregnancy. Lumbar spine (LS), total hip (TH), and whole-body-less-head (WBLH) aBMD were measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) at 2, 14, and 26 weeks of lactation, and at 3 months postlactation. The primary outcome was the difference between groups in mean percent change in LS aBMD between 2 and 14 weeks. Statistical analysis was performed in hierarchical repeated measures ANOVA models that corrected for multiple testing. Median age was 23.4 (IQR, 21.0 to 26.8) years. WWH had lower body weight. aBMD decreased in both groups during lactation, but WWH had greater decreases at TH (2-to-26 weeks: WWH [n = 63] −5.9% [95% CI, −6.4 to −5.4] versus REF [n = 64] −4.3% [95% CI, −4.8 to −3.8]; group*time point interaction p = .008). Decreases in LS aBMD were similar in WWH and REF (2-to-26 weeks: −2.0% [95% CI, −2.5 to −1.5]), although there was a tendency toward a smaller decrease in WWH between 2 and 14 weeks (WWH [n = 77] −1.8% [95% CI, −2.2 to −1.4] versus REF [n = 69] −2.9% [95% CI, −3.3 to −2.5]; group*time point interaction p = .08). Postlactation, LS aBMD was higher relative to week 2 in both groups. TH and WBLH aBMD did not return to week 2 values in WWH but did in REF (TH postlactation versus week 2: WWH [n = 61] −3.1% [95% CI, −3.6 to −2.6]; REF [n = 29] +0.1% [95% CI, −0.9 to +1.1]). These data show accentuated bone loss during lactation and only partial skeletal recovery by 3 months postlactation in Ugandan WWH on tenofovir-based ART. Studies are ongoing to understand longer-term consequences for bone health. © 2020 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
IL‐34 is a potential biomarker for the treatment of papillary thyroid cancer
Authors: Zhang Ping , Zhang Hao , Dong Wenwu , Wang Zhihong , Qin Yuan , Wu Changhao , Dong Qi
Published: June 2020

Background

Interleukin (IL)‐34 is a recently discovered pro‐inflammatory cytokine and is a vital regulator in different tumor types. However, the function of IL‐34 in thyroid carcinoma has yet to be investigated. In this study, we analyzed the expression of IL‐34 in human papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) samples and determined its effects on the proliferation and apoptosis of PTC cells.

Methods

We examined the expression of IL‐34 in serum and tissue samples of patients with PTC by Western blotting and ELISA assay and analyzed its association with clinicopathological features including tumor size, tumor node metastasis (TNM) stage, and lymph node metastasis (LNM). We selected TPC1 and K1 for knockdown or overexpressing of IL‐34 via small interference RNA transfection. The proliferation of PTC cells was evaluated by CCK8 assay. We further investigated the role of IL‐34 in apoptosis by flow cytometry and studied the protein levels of epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) biomarkers, phosphorylated extracellular‐regulated kinase (ERK), and total‐ERK (t‐ERK) by Western blotting.

Results

Our results show that IL‐34 is significantly upregulated in serum and tissue samples from patients with PTC. IL‐34 promotes the proliferation and suppresses apoptosis in PTC cells. In addition, IL‐34 can promote the EMT and activate ERK signaling pathway in PTC cells.

Conclusion

This study provides novel evidence that IL‐34 serves as an oncogene in PTC. IL‐34 promotes proliferation, EMT phenotype, and ERK signaling pathway and inhibits apoptosis in PTC cells. Therefore, IL‐34 may be a potent therapeutic target for the treatment of PTC.
Expression of NF‐κB, IL‐6, and IL‐10 genes, body composition, and hepatic fibrosis in obese patients with NAFLD—Combined effects of oleoylethanolamide supplementation and calorie restriction: A triple‐blind randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Tutunchi Helda , Ostadrahimi Alireza , Saghafi‐Asl Maryam , Roshanravan Neda , Shakeri‐Bavil Abolhassan , Asghari‐Jafarabadi Mohammad , Farrin Nazila , Mobasseri Majid
Published: June 2020

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the most common noncommunicable diseases worldwide. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of oleoylethanolamide (OEA) supplementation combined with calorie restriction on inflammation, body composition, and hepatic fibrosis among obese patients with NAFLD. In this 12‐week randomized clinical trial, 76 obese patients newly diagnosed with NAFLD were randomly allocated into either OEA or placebo group. The weight‐loss diet was also designed for both groups. Pre‐ and postintervention messenger RNA expression levels of the transcription factor nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB), interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) and IL‐10, body composition, and NAFLD fibrosis score were assessed. At the end of the study, the OEA group showed lower NF‐κB and IL‐6 expression levels compared to the placebo (p < .01). However, IL‐10 expression level was approximately twofold higher in the OEA group compared to the placebo group (p = .008). A significant reduction was observed in the fat mass of the OEA group compared to the placebo (p = .044) postintervention. In addition, OEA supplementation led to a significant increase in fat‐free mass in the OEA group compared to the placebo (p = .032). A remarkable increase was observed in resting metabolic rate (RMR) in the OEA group (p = .009); however, it was not found in the placebo group. There were no significant between‐group differences in RMR postintervention. In addition, no significant within‐and between‐group differences were observed in the NAFLD fibrosis score at the end of the trial. Treatment with OEA along with weight‐loss intervention could significantly improve inflammation and body composition in patients with NAFLD.
The emerging role of angiotensinogen in cardiovascular diseases
Authors: Xu Yinchuan , Rong Jiabing , Zhang Zhaocai
Published: June 2020

Angiotensinogen (AGT) is the unique precursor of all angiotensin peptides. Many of the basic understandings of AGT in cardiovascular diseases have come from research efforts to define its effects on blood pressure regulation. The development of novel techniques targeting AGT manipulation such as genetic animal models, adeno‐associated viral approaches, and antisense oligonucleotides made it possible to deeply investigate the relationship between AGT and cardiovascular diseases. In this brief review, we provide contemporary insights into the emerging role of AGT in cardiovascular diseases. In light of the recent progress, we emphasize some newly recognized features and mechanisms of AGT in heart failure, hypertension, atherosclerosis, and cardiovascular risk factors.
Short rainbow cycles in graphs and matroids
Authors: DeVos Matt , Drescher Matthew , Funk Daryl , González Hermosillo de la Maza Sebastián , Guo Krystal , Huynh Tony , Mohar Bojan , Montejano Amanda
Published: June 2020

Let be a simple ‐vertex graph and be a coloring of with colors, where each color class has size at least 2. We prove that contains a rainbow cycle of length at most , which is best possible. Our result settles a special case of a strengthening of the Caccetta‐Häggkvist conjecture, due to Aharoni. We also show that the matroid generalization of our main result also holds for cographic matroids, but fails for binary matroids.
Insufficient plasma concentrations of empiric anti‐pseudomonal beta‐lactam antibiotics in critically ill patients with suspected sepsis
Authors: Pai Mangalore Rekha , Padiglione Alexander A. , Martin Emma‐Leah , Schneider Hans G. F. , Ngo‐Thai Lam Lan , McGloughlin Steven A. , Peleg Anton Y. , Udy Andrew A.
Published: June 2020

Aim

To determine if empirical anti‐pseudomonal beta‐lactam antibiotic (BLA) dosing achieves adequate drug exposure in septic patients.

Method

A single‐centre, prospective pharmacokinetic study was conducted in Intensive Care Unit (ICU) patients with sepsis, receiving empirical therapy with piperacillin/tazobactam or meropenem. The pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) targets were free BLA concentrations above the MIC at the mid‐point (Concentration A, 50%f T > MIC) and end of the dosing interval (Concentration B, 100% fT > MIC). Sub‐therapeutic concentrations were defined as concentration A < MIC, and sub‐optimal as concentration B < MIC. The MIC breakpoint for Pseudomonas aeruginosa, as defined by The European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (EUCAST) (available from ) was used.

Results

Of the 37 eligible patients, 20 were receiving piperacillin/tazobactam (TZP), and 17 meropenem (MEM). PK data were available for 36 patients (concentration A) and 34 patients (concentration B). The median measured plasma concentrations (mg/L) were: piperacillin for doses 4 g 8‐hourly and 4 g 6‐hourly – concentration A 53.9 [14.38–123.71] and 36.44 [13.38–107.45], concentration B 8.01 [2.57–71.08] and 27.31 [3.32–59.76], MEM for doses 1 g 8‐hourly and 2 g 8‐hourly – concentration A 12.49 [7.35–23.63] and 30.5, concentration B 7.47 [2.97–11.33] and 9.31. 27.8% (10 of 36) of patients had sub‐therapeutic concentrations (concentration A) and 50% (17 of 34) had sub‐optimal concentrations (concentration B).

Conclusion

Our study confirms that sub‐therapeutic unbound plasma anti‐pseudomonal BLA concentrations are common in critically ill septic patients and underscores the urgent need for future trials exploring the efficacy of BLA therapeutic drug monitoring in these patients.
Determination of sulfadimethoxine in milk with aptamer‐functionalized Fe3O4/graphene oxide as magnetic solid‐phase extraction adsorbent prior to HPLC
Authors: Guo Yinan , Wei Wei , Zhang Ying , Dai Yuanyuan , Wang Weiping , Wang Aijun
Published: June 2020

An aptamer (Apt) functionalized magnetic material was prepared by covalently link Apt to Fe3O4/graphene oxide (Fe3O4/GO) composite by 1‐ethyl‐3‐(3‐dimethylaminopropyl) carbodiimide hydrochloride and N‐hydroxysuccinimide, and then characterized by FTIR spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and vibration sample magnetometry. The obtained composite of Fe3O4/GO/Apt was employed as magnetic solid‐phase extraction adsorbent for the selective preconcentration of sulfadimethoxine prior to analysis by high‐performance liquid chromatography. Under the optimal conditions (sample pH of 4.0, sorbent dosage of 20 mg, extraction time of 3 h, and methanol‐5% acetic acid solution as eluent), a good linear relationship was obtained between the peak area and concentration of sulfadimethoxine in the range of 5.0 to 1500.0 µg/L with correlation coefficient of 0.9997. The limit of detection (S/N = 3) was 3.3 µg/L. The developed method was successfully applied to the analysis of sulfadimethoxine in milk with recoveries in the range of 75.9‐92.3% and relative standard deviations less than 8.1%. The adsorption mechanism of Fe3O4/GO/Apt toward sulfadimethoxine was studied through the adsorption kinetics and adsorption isotherms, and the results show that the adsorption process fits well with the pseudo‐second‐order kinetic model and the adsorbate on Fe3O4/GO/Apt is multilayer and heterogeneous.
Identification of bilobetin metabolites, in vivo and in vitro, based on an efficient ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry strategy
Authors: Feng Xue , Zhang Xiaowei , Chen Yuting , Li Luya , Sun Qian , Zhang Lantong
Published: June 2020

Bilobetin, a natural compound extracted from Ginkgo biloba, has various pharmacological activities such as antioxidation, anticancer, antibacterial, antifungal, anti‐inflammatory, antiviral, and promoting osteoblast differentiation. However, few studies have been conducted and there are no reports on its metabolites owing to its low content in nature. In addition, it has been reported to have potential liver and kidney toxicity. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the metabolites of bilobetin in vitro and in vivo. Bilobetin was incubated with liver microsomes to determine metabolites in vitro, and faeces and urine were collected after oral administration to rats to determine metabolites in vivo. After the samples were processed, they were measured using ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry. As a result, a total of 21 and 9 metabolites were detected in vivo and in vitro, respectively. Demethylation, demethylation and loss of water, demethylation and hydrogenation, demethylation and glycine conjugation, oxidation, methylation, oxidation and methylation, and hydrogenation were the main metabolic pathways. This study is the first to identify the metabolites of bilobetin and provides a theoretical foundation for the safe use of bilobetin in clinical application and the development of new drugs.
Fetoscopic Balloon Dilation and Cricotracheal Resection for Laryngeal Atresia in CHAOS
Authors: Propst Evan J. , Wolter Nikolaus E. , Morency Anne‐Maude , Amin Reshma , Blaser Susan , Moore Aideen M. , Windrim Rory , Ryan Greg
Published: June 2020

View Supplementary Video 1 Laryngoscope, 131:660–662, 2021
Genetic determinants of circulating galectin‐3 levels in patients with coronary artery disease
Authors: Liao Yu‐Huang , Teng Ming‐Sheng , Juang Jyh‐Ming J. , Chiang Fu‐Tien , Er Leay‐Kiaw , Wu Semon , Ko Yu‐Lin
Published: June 2020

Background

Galectin‐3 plays a crucial role in the regulation of inflammation. The aim of this study was to elucidate the association between LGALS3 genotypes, galectin‐3 levels, and inflammatory marker levels in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD).

Results

A total of 474 patients with CAD were enrolled. Significant correlations were discerned between galectin‐3 levels and leukocyte counts, C‐reactive protein, soluble intercellular adhesion molecule‐1, and matrix metalloproteinase 9 levels (all p < .05). The LGALS3 rs2274273, rs4644, rs4652 genotypes, and haplotypes CAC, CCC, and ACT exhibited a significant association with galectin‐3 levels (for genotypes, p = 1.05 × 10−25, 3.54 × 10−25, and 2.74 × 10−7, respectively). Multivariate analysis showed LGALS3 rs2274273 and rs4644 genotypes contributing to 20.8% variation of galectin‐3 levels. However, there was no association between LGALS3 genotypes and other inflammatory marker levels.

Conclusions

Our data showed strong genetic determinants of galectin‐3 levels in patients with CAD. The galectin‐3 levels, but not LGALS3 genotypes, were associated with multiple inflammatory marker levels. Further study may be necessary to elucidate the molecular mechanism of galectin‐3 in the pathogenesis of chronic inflammatory disorders.
Deleterious mis‐splicing of STK11 caused by a novel single‐nucleotide substitution in the 3′ polypyrimidine tract of intron five
Authors: Terkelsen Thorkild , Larsen Ole H. , Vang Søren , Jensen Uffe B. , Wikman Friedrik
Published: June 2020

Background

Pathogenic variants in STK11, also designated as LKB1, cause Peutz–Jeghers syndrome, which is a rare autosomal dominant disorder characterized by mucocutaneous pigmentation changes, polyposis, and a high risk of cancer.

Methods

A male meeting the clinical diagnostic criteria for Peutz–Jeghers syndrome underwent next‐generation sequencing. To validate the predicted splicing impact of a detected STK11 variant, we performed RNA‐Seq on mRNA extracted from patient‐derived Epstein‐Barr virus‐transformed lymphocytes treated with cycloheximide to inhibit nonsense‐mediated decay ex vivo.

Results

Blood testing identified a novel single‐nucleotide substitution, NM_000455.4:c.735‐10C>A, at the end of the 3′ polypyrimidine tract of intron five in STK11. RNA‐Seq confirmed a predicted eight base pair insertion in the mRNA transcript. Following inhibition of nonsense‐mediated decay, the out‐of‐frame insertion was detected in 50% of all RNA‐Seq reads. This confirmed a strong, deleterious splicing impact of the variant.

Conclusion

We characterized a novel likely pathogenic germline variant in intron five of STK11 associated with Peutz–Jeghers syndrome. The study highlights RNA‐Seq as a useful supplement in hereditary cancer predisposition testing.
Magneto‐hydrodynamics natural convection flows of viscous carbon nanotubes nanofluids with generalized Fourier's law in a vertical cylinder
Authors: Xiao Yeliang , Shah Nehad Ali , Irshad Tahreem
Published: June 2020

In this article, we consider the natural (free) convection flows of viscous carbon nanotubes nanofluids in the presence of transverse magnetic field in a vertical cylinder. The fractional derivative is introduced by means of generalized Fourier's law (Caputo–Fabrizio and Atangana–Baleanu fractional derivatives) in the thermal equation. The solutions of the equations are found by means of the Laplace and finite Hankel transforms, which satisfied all imposed initial and boundary conditions. The effects of fractional and physical parameters are graphically underlined.
New reproducing kernel Hilbert spaces on semi‐infinite domains with existence and uniqueness results for the nonhomogeneous telegraph equation
Authors: Hassan Jabar S. , Grow David
Published: June 2020

We introduce new reproducing kernel Hilbert spaces on a semi‐infinite domain and demonstrate existence and uniqueness of solutions to the nonhomogeneous telegraph equation in these spaces if the driver is square‐integrable and sufficiently smooth.
Improving radiofrequency power and specific absorption rate management with bumped transmit elements in ultra‐high field MRI
Authors: Sadeghi‐Tarakameh Alireza , Adriany Gregor , Metzger Gregory J. , Lagore Russell L. , Jungst Steve , DelaBarre Lance , Van de Moortele Pierre‐Francois , Ugurbil Kamil , Atalar Ergin , Eryaman Yigitcan
Published: June 2020

Purpose

In this study, we investigate a strategy to reduce the local specific absorption rate (SAR) while keeping

constant inside the region of interest (ROI) at the ultra‐high field (B0 ≥ 7T) MRI.

Methods

Locally raising the resonance structure under the discontinuity (i.e., creating a bump) increases the distance between the accumulated charges and the tissue. As a result, it reduces the electric field and local SAR generated by these charges inside the tissue. The

at a point that is sufficiently far from the coil, however, is not affected by this modification. In this study, three different resonant elements (i.e., loop coil, snake antenna, and fractionated dipole [FD]) are investigated. For experimental validation, a bumped FD is further investigated at 10.5T. After the validation, the transmit performances of eight‐channel arrays of each element are compared through electromagnetic (EM) simulations.

Results

Introducing a bump reduced the peak 10g‐averaged SAR by 21, 26, 23% for the loop and snake antenna at 7T, and FD at 10.5T, respectively. In addition, eight‐channel bumped FD array at 10.5T had a 27% lower peak 10g‐averaged SAR in a realistic human body simulation (i.e., prostate imaging) compared to an eight‐channel FD array.

Conclusion

In this study, we investigated a simple design strategy based on adding bumps to a resonant element to reduce the local SAR while maintaining

inside an ROI. As an example, we modified an FD and performed EM simulations and phantom experiments with a 10.5T scanner. Results show that the peak 10g‐averaged SAR can be reduced more than 25%.
Management for International Development and Aid Projects: A new conceptual model
Authors: Saleh Firas Izzat Mahmoud , Karia Noorliza
Published: June 2020

The need to respond to the complexity of Project Management (PM) in International Development and Aid Projects (IDAPs) has been acknowledged. Nevertheless, there are minimal endeavors to customize the standard PM Models in enhancing IDAPs within the more immense structures and longer field‐specific agendas for the interest of people reached by this specific type of projects in the man‐made crises. This article aims to examine the standard PMBOK(R) Guide and align it with requirements of IDAPs by emphasizing the Total Quality Management and Core Humanitarian Standers. A critical review has provided a conceptual model for better management of IDAPs that are implemented in man‐made crises such as Syrian refugee crisis in the Middle East, which adds value to how the standard PMBOK(R) Guide might be adopted or adapted for IDAPs requirements and the interest of better organizational effectiveness of International Non‐Governmental Organizations and vulnerable people alike.
The influence of temperament on stress‐induced emotional eating in children
Authors: Ohrt Tara Kristen , Perez Marisol , Liew Jeffrey , Hernández Juan Carlos , Yu Kimberly Yim
Published: June 2020

Background

Stress‐induced emotional eating is a risk factor for overweight and obesity. Previous research proposes both the human serotonin transporter gene (5‐HTTLPR) and child's reactive temperament are promising candidates to help explain individual differences in stress‐induced emotional eating and weight. Understanding the association between specific genotypes, reactive temperament factors, and stress‐induced emotional eating may inform the development of personalized and effective treatment for children who may be at risk for overweight and obesity.

Objective

The current study explored the conditional indirect effect of genetic and environmental susceptibility (i.e., the interaction between 5‐HTTLPR and reactive temperament) on weight (as measured by percent body fat) mediated by stress‐induced emotional eating.

Method

One hundred and forty‐seven children (4 to 6 years old; 50.3% female; 22.4% Hispanic), along with their primary caregiver, completed laboratory tasks and questionnaires that assessed the child's reactive temperament, stress‐induced emotional eating, and percent body fat.

Results

The interaction between 5‐HTTLPR and impulsivity as well as with negative affectivity significantly predicted percent body fat. The interaction between 5‐HTTLPR and impulsivity as well as with negative affectivity significantly predicted both total calorie consumption and rate of total calorie consumption. However, the mediation aspect of this statistical model was not supported.

Conclusions

Child reactive temperament is an important indicator of how children approach eating when stressed. Mental health providers may consider prescribing strategies to reduce emotional eating among children with the SL variant and moderate to high impulsivity as well as children with the LL variant and high negative affectivity.
An in‐depth study of the intriguing relationship between “intentions” and “behaviours” with regards to HIV/AIDS social marketing interventions
Authors: Ayikwa Lutete Christian , De Jager Johan W. , Van Zyl Dion
Published: June 2020

This study investigated the correlational and causal relationships between intentions towards abstinence, being faithful to one partner and the correct and consistent use of condoms during sexual intercourse, and their related behaviours in the context of the struggle against the spreading of HIV/AIDS. The ultimate aim pursued was to determine whether or not there are discrepancies between intentions and their related behaviours that distort behavioural theories, such as the theory of planned behaviour, in order to inform social marketers in their designing of interventions promoting safe‐sex behaviours. Data collected from a cross‐sectional survey conducted in South Africa's Gauteng Province helped in analysing the “intentions‐behaviours” correlational relationships through Pearson product–moment correlation. Structural equation modelling enabled this study to infer “intentions‐behaviours” causality as the sole way to do so in the absence of longitudinal data. Both intentions towards abstinence and faithfulness correlated negatively with their respective behaviours, while the condom use in “intention‐behaviour” relationships showed a positive correlation. Furthermore, results indicated significant causal relationships between intentions and their related behaviours, establishing the existence of “intention‐behaviour” discrepancy for faithfulness that contrasts with behavioural theories. In addition, significant paths between intentions and their irrespective behaviours as observed were determined purely as statistical artefacts. This study, in addition to considering the perspective of “intention‐behaviour” discrepancy, provides practical and strategic recommendations in considering the dynamic nature of life in the abstinence and faithfulness approach while addressing HIV/AIDS.
Sustainable peacebuilding and development in Nigeria's post‐amnesty programme: The role of corporate social responsibility in oil host communities
Authors: Uduji Joseph Ikechukwu , Okolo‐Obasi Elda Nduka , Asongu Simplice A.
Published: June 2020

The activities and violence of militants in the Niger Delta which saw the capacity for production of oil in Nigeria fall to an all‐time low resulted in federal government of Nigeria announcing the Presidential Amnesty Programme in return for peace in the region. We examine how the multinational oil companies corporate social responsibility impact on entrepreneurship development and job creations to absorb the youths. A total of 1,200 youths were sampled across the nine states of Niger Delta. Results from the use of estimated logit model reveal that general memorandum of understanding interventions are prevalent with communities with greater ownership creating room for better projects, sustainability and improved trust; yet the interventions failed to make significant impact on entrepreneurship development and job creations. Clearly, facilitating how youths get involved in skill acquisition and empowerment programmes would help them become entrepreneurs, improving their self‐assurance that they can prosper outside militancy activities and violence.
Ab initio Investigation of Interfacial Thermal Transport for HMX‐PVDF Interface
Authors: Fan Hang , He Guansong , Yang Zhijian , Nie Fude , Chen Pengwan
Published: June 2020

The theoretical investigation of heat dissipation for polymer‐bonded explosives (PBXs) is in high demand in explosive design in terms of safety and realibility, particularly as lack of effective experimental measurements. Here, we investigate the fundamental understanding of thermal transport across the heterogeneous interface between HMX and PVDF, by using the diffuse mismatch model and anharmonic inelastic model. This work explores the interfacial thermal conductance via ab initio calculation and derived phonon dispersions, phonon group velocities. For HMX‐PVDF interface, it is shown that low‐frequency phonon modes (especially lower than 10 THz) and two‐phonon elastic processes play dominant roles in the interface thermal transport. Furthermore, we present the calculated interfacial thermal conductance as a function of temperature. The thermal conductivity of mixture HMX‐PVDF system is analyzed with an effective medium approximation model. From these calculations, we give the thermal transport properties predictions of PBX for thermal conductivity enhancement and provides fundamental microscopic insights into phonon transport physics in PBX.
Magnetic Coding of Steel for Industrial Internet Applications
Authors: Goll Dagmar , Kresse Thomas , Schuller David , Kazi Arif , Schneider Gerhard
Published: June 2020

Ferritic steel has the potential to act as a medium for magnetic storage of certain information, for example, to document the history of parts. The material is expected to play a role in supporting intelligent production processes and logistics routines for industrial internet applications. For writing and reading stable magnetic codes into steel, it is necessary to investigate and understand the corresponding requirements of the material. Both sensitively depend on characteristic microstructural details and related magnetic properties. They are either already present in the material or may be locally achieved in the code area by supplementary hardening methods.
Enhanced Dielectric and Energy Storage Properties in Fe‐Doped BCZT Ferroelectric Ceramics
Authors: Gao Mingze , Ge Wenwei , Li Xia , Yuan Hongming , Liu Changyi , Zhao Hongwei , Ma Yaqing , Chang Yunfei
Published: June 2020

x mol% Fe‐doped Ba(Zr0.2Ti0.8)O3‐50 mol%(Ba0.7Ca0.3)TiO3 (abbreviated as xFe:BCZT) ferroelectric ceramics with x = 0, 0.075, 0.375, 0.75, 1.5, and 3 are fabricated via conventional solid‐state reaction methods. Fe incorporates into the lattice, and all the xFe:BCZT ceramics show pure perovskite structure except 3Fe:BCZT ceramics in which tiny amount of iron oxide is detected via X‐ray diffraction (XRD). The average grain sizes are significantly reduced from ≈20 to ≈2 μm with increasing Fe‐doping content. The Curie temperature of xFe:BCZT ceramics decreases with increasing Fe‐doping concentration and the room temperature dielectric constant significantly increased. Polarization hysteresis loops become slim after Fe‐doping. The recoverable energy storage density Wrec of xFe:BCZT ceramics is slightly enhanced to 0.240 J cm−3 with an energy storage efficiency η% = 70.1% at x = 0.075 under E‐field of 50 kV cm−1. The η% can be enhanced to as high as 93.8% at x = 3 with Wrec = 0.153 J cm−3 due to a slim P–E loops via Fe‐doping. The results indicate a potential method to fabricate high efficiency energy storage materials via Fe‐doping.
First‐Principles Study of Chromium Defects inα‐Al2O3: The Origin of Red Color in Ruby
Authors: Na-Phattalung Sutassana , Limpijumnong Sukit , T-Thienprasert Jiraroj
Published: June 2020

Using first‐principles calculations within hybrid functional, chromium defects inα‐Al2O3are investigated, which are believed to be the cause of red color in ruby. It is found that the chromium substitution for aluminum (CrAl) defect has low formation energy under both Al‐ and O‐rich growth conditions, whereas the formation energy of the Cr substitution for O (CrO) defect is much higher, except underp‐type and Al‐rich growth conditions. In addition, Cr interstitial (Cri) also has low formation energy underp‐type and Al‐rich conditions, and its formation energy is somewhat lower than that of CrO. However, natural sapphire is an insulator indicating that the Fermi‐level position should be around the midgap. This confirms that Cr is likely to substitute for Al atom. By exploring the optical properties of the CrAldefect to identify the origin of red color in ruby, the absorption energies associated with the transition of to and to are 2.12 and 2.73 eV, respectively. The former and latter can be assigned to the observedUandYbands, respectively, which are believed to be the origin of red color in ruby. Further, it is suggested that the emission linesR,R', andBare associated with other defects or other mechanisms.
A foreign body experience
Authors: Ferreira David , Prasad Yashneel , Vedam Hima , Baraket Melissa , Ghosh Sayontonee , Williamson Jonathan P.
Published: June 2020

Foreign body inhalation (FBI) is an uncommon clinical entity in adults. Despite this, FBI is an under‐recognized, serious, and easily treatable condition. The authors report a case of a 31‐year‐old female asthmatic who presented with wheeze and cough not responding to therapy. Chest computed tomography and bronchoscopy confirmed a foreign body distal to the left upper lobe vestibule. The non‐organic material was removed with rigid bronchoscopy and cryoprobe with resolution of symptoms. FBI remains an important differential in those presenting with respiratory symptoms in the absence of other diagnoses.
Spontaneous remission of the micronodular pattern in cryptogenic organizing pneumonia
Authors: Kawakami Naoki , Kato Rina , Liu Chushu , Ito Masaru , Wakai Yoko , Saito Kazuhito
Published: June 2020

Organizing pneumonia (OP) is a common interstitial lung disease, pathologically characterized by polypoid granulation tissue in the alveolar ducts and alveoli. In clinical practice, OP occasionally presents as non‐resolving pneumonia. The typical radiographic pattern of OP is characterized by dense consolidation with ground‐glass opacities. Diffuse micronodular pattern of OP (MNOP) is a rare radiographic manifestation that mimics non‐resolving bronchiolar diseases such as pulmonary tuberculosis or hypersensitivity pneumonitis. Steroid therapy is usually effective for MNOP; however, spontaneous remission in MNOP has never been reported. Herein, we report a case of a diffuse micronodular form of cryptogenic OP (COP) that was diagnosed via transbronchial biopsy (TBB) and resolved spontaneously within a few months. Our case highlights that MNOP may resolve spontaneously similar to other forms of OP, and mild cases may be under‐recognized. Furthermore, careful observation could be an option for managing MNOP with mild and non‐progressive symptoms.
A multi‐criteria sustainable supplier selection framework based on neutrosophic fuzzy data and entropy weighting
Authors: Zeng Shouzhen , Hu Yingjie , Balezentis Tomas , Streimikiene Dalia
Published: June 2020

The gains in corporate sustainability are important for business development under the increasing competition and climate change. The importance of the green and sustainable supplier selection has increased due to the environmental concerns and regulations. The information for business decisions is often vague and imprecise. Therefore, this paper develops a fuzzy methodology for sustainable supplier selection based on fuzzy information. Single‐valued neutrosophic set (SVNS) is a very popular tool for processing potentially uncertain information provided by decision‐makers. Thus, SVNS is considered as a useful extension of the existing methods in uncertain complex situations. In order to facilitate the multi‐attribute decision‐making (MADM), this paper develops a new similarity measure for the SVNSs and explores its application possibilities. For achieving the aim, a single‐valued neutrosophic (SVN) hybrid weighted similarity (SVNHWS) measure is presented to reflect degree of similarity of SVNSs more effectively. Moreover, a method based on the SVNHWS and entropy measures is constructed for handling SVN MADM problems, in which, the entropy measure is used to derive the unknown weights information of attributes. Finally, an illustrative mathematical example dealing with the sustainable supplier selection is provided. The reliability of the proposed technique is tested by means of the comparative analysis.
X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy characterization of Cu compounds for the development of organic protection treatments dedicated to heritage Cu objects preservation
Authors: L'héronde Maëva , Bouttemy Muriel , Mercier‐Bion Florence , Neff Delphine , Apchain Emilande , Etcheberry Arnaud , Dillmann Philippe
Published: June 2020

The preservation of bronze and copper heritage objects is challenging. Exposure to water or pollution in outdoor conditions leads to corrosion phenomena, which can highly degrade the objects or structures. We aim to develop an alternative nontoxic corrosion inhibiting treatment, based on the use of a carboxylate (HC10) treatment. Electron spectroscopies (X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and scanning Auger microscopy) are used to determine, from micrometric to nanometric scale, the composition and chemical environments (oxidation degrees) of the copper compounds commonly found in the corrosion product layer. In the present study, we focus on the evaluation of X‐ray beam irradiation damage when performing surface analysis on cuprite, brochantite, and Cu decanoate reference samples. The reduction phenomenon has already been reported, especially for Cu(II) compounds, but not clearly explained. Different behavior has been observed depending on the X‐ray source used, and the nature and hydration level of the compounds. The photoreduction issue is critical, as it guarantees the reliability of the chemical information obtained and sheds light on the best analysis pathway to adopt when multitechnique analyses are implemented. An analytical procedure is employed to track the reduction of Cu(II) reference samples during XPS analysis evidencing practically instantaneous modifications of the spectra and thus, the instability of these phases except for the dehydrated cuprite sample.
Taxonomy of Industry 4.0 research: Mapping scholarship and industry insights
Authors: Nazarov Dashi , Klarin Anton
Published: June 2020

A systems perspective of an emergent field such as Industry 4.0 requires combining and analysing the entire multidisciplinary scholarship under one map. Recent developments in scientometric analysis allow researchers to carry out complex bibliometric analyses coupled with an unstructured ontological discovery made available through thematic and ensuing semantic analyses to gain a holistic outlook on the ecosystem of Industry 4.0. The state‐of‐the‐art review of the entire scholarship of Industry 4.0 demonstrates three broad clusters—the implications of automation on industry, the integration of technologies and technological advancements driving the Fourth Industrial Revolution. The scholarship output is, for the first time, compared with the leading industrial and policymaking institutional reports to highlight similarities and discrepancies. This allows to propose a previously unavailable definition of Industry 4.0, which is much needed to progress the research further. The three highly discrepant areas between academic literature and industry insights include lack of research into return on investment, lack of research involving policymaking, and the implications of technological development on the workforce, firms and countries. It is imperative to drive research into the existent, as well as the highlighted, themes in advancing the knowledge and aligning the academic scholarship with the interests of practitioners.
Deteriorated seismic capacity assessment of reinforced concrete bridge piers in corrosive environment
Authors: Domaneschi Marco , De Gaetano Antonino , Casas Joan R. , Cimellaro Gian Paolo
Published: June 2020

The coupled effects of corrosion and earthquake action on bridges piers are investigated in this study. Starting from a literature review to collect existing corrosion models, a bridge overpass is selected to perform seismic analyses. It allows to assess the degrading seismic capacity of the bridge pier at different periods due to general and pitting corrosion. The selected bridge structure belongs to the class of motorway overpass, that is a frequently used structural system all around the world. Consequently, the development of a suitable and effective tool for an in‐depth degradation analysis of this type of system, with the identification of the most appropriate time for restoration, is of paramount importance to guarantee continuous serviceability and safety.
Entrepreneurial ecosystems in Bulgaria and Romania: A comparative analysis
Authors: Hess James P.
Published: June 2020

This comparative analysis examines the neighboring entrepreneurial ecosystems in Bulgaria and Romania. In transitioning from past planned economies, these countries maintain similar approaches to entrepreneurship, yet they also exhibit distinct differences. Secondary data analysis revealed that both countries maintain a highly educated workforce with high start‐up skills and similar levels of global competitiveness in growing economies, while still facing low‐risk acceptance and low opportunity perception. On the other hand, Bulgaria excels in networking, building joint venture deals, attracting investment, maintaining a stronger focus on R&D, and the ability to nurture collaboration between industries and universities, while Romania displays stronger political stability, greater ease in starting a business, a more advanced infrastructure, and easier access to credit. As these countries capture the strengths of their respective economies, both Bulgaria and Romania may one day represent powerful hubs of innovation. Organizational leaders may use this study as a comparative springboard to learn new, yet workable policies that may support entrepreneurship within their respective ecosystems.
Ascending aortic aneurysm associated with tetralogy of Fallot in an adult mare
Authors: Vitale Valentina , Van Galen Gaby , Laurberg Malene , Young Bridgette , Mciver Victoria , Wereszka Marta , Gimeno Marina
Published: June 2020

Congenital heart disease is relatively uncommon in horses. Only three reports exist that describe a tetralogy of Fallot in adult horses. Whereas in humans the presence of congenital heart disease constitutes a risk factor for developing aortic aneurysms, their association has never been reported in horses. Here, we present a case with a large ascending aortic aneurysm as a complication of a tetralogy of Fallot in an adult mare. The mare was referred with sustained tachycardia and a 5 days history of mild intermittent colic, depression, inappetence and weight loss. Echocardiography was used to characterize the cardiac abnormalities and aortic root dilation. Due to the poor prognosis, the mare was euthanized and post‐mortem examination further characterized the abnormalities. At least four factors contributed in this case to the development of aortic haematoma: congenital disease, mucoid extracellular matrix accumulation vasa vasorum dysfunction and inflammatory/degenerative lesions in the aorta's intima. Although colic is primarily caused by gastrointestinal issues, cardiac disease should be suspected in cases with sustained tachycardia, even in absence of murmurs or arrhythmias. Despite the fact that congenital abnormalities are usually detected in foals, they may sometimes remain unnoticed for several years.
On the top rung of Jacob's ladder of density functional theory: Toward resolving the dilemma of SIE and NCE
Authors: Zhang Igor Ying , Xu Xin
Published: June 2020

According to the classification of Jacob's Ladder proposed by Perdew, density functional approximations (DFAs) on the top (fifth) rung add the information of the unoccupied Kohn–Sham orbitals, which hold the promise to enter the heaven of chemical accuracy. In other words, we expect that a much higher accuracy with a broader applicability than the existing DFAs would eventually be achieved on the fifth rung. Nonetheless, Jacob's Ladder itself does not offer a recipe for how to manipulate the unoccupied Kohn–Sham orbitals on the construction of a successful fifth rung DFA. In this article, we briefly review two successful types of the fifth rung DFAs, that is, random‐phase approximation (RPA) and doubly hybrid approximation (DHA). The limitations of RPA and DHA will be introduced in the context of the so‐called self‐interaction error (SIE)/nondynamic correlation error (NCE) dilemma in the world of density functional theory. We propose the development strategy for DHAs to address the general concern about the future of advanced DFAs on the fifth rung. We share our experience here, based on the relevant efforts recently made by the authors and their co‐workers, aiming to resolve the SIE/NCE dilemma and to extend the applicability of DHAs from the chemistry of the main group elements to that of the transition metals.

This article is categorized under:

Electronic Structure Theory > Density Functional Theory

Software > Quantum Chemistry
Gaseous emissions from wastewater facilities
Authors: Koh Sock‐Hoon , Shaw Andrew R.
Published: June 2020

A review of the literature published in 2019 on topics relating to gaseous emissions from wastewater facilities is presented. This review is divided into the following sections: odorant emissions from Water Resource Recovery Facilities (WRRFs); greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions; gaseous emissions from wastewater collection systems; physiochemical odor/emissions control methods; biological odor/emissions control methods; odor/GHG characterization and monitoring; and odor impacts/risk assessments. © 2020 Water Environment Federation

Practitioner Points

Provide a quick reference list for readers who do not have time to go through the 2019 published articles. This prescreening of relevant literatures will save them time and effort.

Utilities, engineers, and researchers can identify knowledge gaps, which help them to plan for future testing and R&D needs.

Designers can make use of the lit review findings to support their design.