bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antithrombin deficiency is associated with mortality and impaired organ function in septic pediatric patients: a retrospective study
Authors: Niederwanger Christian , Hell Tobias , Hofer Sophie , Salvador Christina , Michel Miriam , Schenk Bettina , Treml Benedikt , Bachler Mirjam
Published: September 2018

Background

Sepsis remains a major problem in intensive care medicine. It is often accompanied by coagulopathies, leading to thrombotic occlusion of small vessels with subsequent organ damage and even fatal multi-organ failure. Prediction of the clinical course and outcome—especially in the heterogeneous group of pediatric patients—is difficult. Antithrombin, as an endogenous anticoagulant enzyme with anti-inflammatory properties, plays a central role in controling coagulation and infections. We investigated the relationship between antithrombin levels and organ failure as well as mortality in pediatric patients with sepsis.

Methods

Data from 164 patients under the age of 18, diagnosed with sepsis, were retrospectively reviewed. Antithrombin levels were recorded three days before to three days after peak C-reactive protein to correlate antithrombin levels with inflammatory activity. Using the concept of developmental haemostasis, patients were divided into groups <1 yr and ≥1 yr of age.

Results

In both age groups, survivors had significantly higher levels of antithrombin than did deceased patients. An optimal threshold level for antithrombin was calculated by ROC analysis for survival: 41.5% (<1 yr) and 67.5% (≥1 yr). The mortality rate above this level was 3.3% (<1 yr) and 9.5% (≥1 yr), and below this level 41.7% (<1 yr) and 32.2% (≥1 yr); OR 18.8 (1.74 to 1005.02),p = 0.0047, and OR 4.46 (1.54 to 14.89),p = 0.003. In children <1 yr with antithrombin levels <41.5% the rate of respiratory failure (66.7%) was significantly higher than in patients with antithrombin levels above this threshold level (23.3%), OR 6.23 (1.23 to 37.81),p = 0.0132. In children ≥1 yr, both liver failure (20.3% vs 1.6%, OR 15.55 (2.16 to 685.01),p = 0.0008) and a dysfunctional intestinal tract (16.9% vs 4.8%, OR 4.04 (0.97 to 24.08),p = 0.0395) occurred more frequently above the antithrombin threshold level of 67.5%.

Conclusion

In pediatric septic patients, significantly increased mortality and levels of organ failure were found below an age-dependent antithrombin threshold level. Antithrombin could be useful as a prognostic marker for survival and occurrence of organ failure in pediatric sepsis.
Japan, Anthropology in
Authors: Yamashita Shinji , Eades J. S. , Shimizu Akitoshi
Published: September 2018

This entry discusses the development of anthropology research and teaching in Japan from the late nineteenth century to the present day. It traces the work of successive generations of Japanese scholars from the early days of armchair anthropology via the period of Japan's colonial expansion to the redevelopment of the discipline in the postwar period. The later part of the entry discusses the reasons why Japanese anthropology, despite a long history and a large number of active scholars, remained separate from the rest of the world and how recent forces for change have led to internationalization and greater integration with an emerging world anthropology.
Gender, Colonialism, and the Colonial Gaze
Authors: Ram Kalpana
Published: September 2018

Colonial domination forged an intrinsic relationship with gender through modalities of sustained scrutiny and intervention. These dimensions are constitutive of a “gaze” that frequently found its object in women and their status. In postcolonial theory, the gaze has meant an unequally constituted right to scrutinize, to represent what is gazed at, and to intervene and alter the object of the gaze. This entry examines the contributions of Frantz Fanon and Edward Said, as well as landmarks of feminist postcolonial scholarship. It distinguishes different styles of gaze fueled by distinct existential imperatives that imply different levels of intimacy and distantiation. The drive to classify and objectify women for “scientific purposes” can be distinguished from the passionate urge to “save” them from their own men. The entry ends with the reclamation of agency by women as they rework the traditions of colonial representation, generating new affects of mourning, honoring, and play.
Postcoloniality
Authors: Basu Srimati , Bose Purnima
Published: September 2018

The term “postcolonialism” emerged in the late twentieth century, signifying an impulse among scholars to periodize history and to identify colonialism as central to an understanding of international/global configurations of power. Postcolonial theory has involved a series of engagements with concepts such as colonialism, the state, nationalism, colonial and native subjectivity, development, and subalternity. It has been marked by a tension between Marxist analyses of the political economy of colonialism and resistance and poststructuralist elaborations of subjectivity and representation. Postcolonial anthropology has interrogated the discipline's origins within the colonial knowledge project, examined the legacies of these origins in postcolonial formations, fostered deeper reflection on the power dynamics between scholars and the communities they study, and explored the complex agency of postcolonial citizens.
Ethnomycology
Authors: Yamin‐Pasternak Sveta , Pasternak Igor
Published: September 2018

Ethnomycology is concerned with the roles of fungi in the human social experience. An inherently multidisciplinary field, it reaches into myriad cultural domains and crosses interests in the humanities, fine arts, and social and natural sciences. Ethnomycology's early ties to cultural anthropology are in great part connected to the history of exchanges, from the 1950s to the 1980s, between Claude Lévi‐Strauss and R. Gordon Wasson. Since then, the growing body of research on the behaviors, uses, cultural transitions, and social relationships related to fungi has unearthed a great variety of ideas pertaining to human–fungi engagements.
Repatriation of Cultural Property and Human Remains
Authors: Krmpotich Cara
Published: September 2018

Repatriation is the return of objects or people to their place of origin. In this area, anthropology has primarily been interested in the repatriation of objects and human remains from museums, galleries, and archives. Anthropologists have been active in repatriation debates, policies, and laws. They have also studied repatriation to advance understandings of property, postcolonialism, nationalism, indigenous rights, and material culture.
Postcolonial Theory and Feminism
Authors: George Nicole
Published: September 2018

This entry on postcolonial theory and feminism begins with a brief outline of postcolonial thought and then reflects on where and how this discourse intersects with feminism. From here, tensions between the two fields are examined and key points of debate are discussed. Particular attention is focused on questions of gender and representation in debates on violence against women and postcolonial feminist scholars' responses to the ways this issue is depicted within their societies by both insiders and outsiders. The entry concludes with reflections on the possibilities of productive feminist collaboration even where there remain profound postcolonial misgivings about the impact of external interventions.
Media and Public Engagement with Science
Authors: Nurmis Joanna
Published: September 2018

The media play a critical role in fostering public engagement with science. This entry discusses the paradigm shift from a deficit model assuming audiences rationally process scientific news toward a model of public engagement which takes into account motivated reasoning and audience values and beliefs, and strives for a multidimensional dialogue between scientists, citizens, and policymakers. Challenges of science communication in the news media are discussed. One such challenge in recent years has been the overreliance of news media on the objectivity as balance norm, which led to significant gaps between public perceptions of scientific truths and the actual consensus among scientists.
Towards an Intermediary Practice: Bucharest Laboratory
Authors: Axinte Alex , Borcan Cristi
Published: September 2018

A major focus of studioBASAR's work is the transformation of urban spatial infrastructure through collaboration with civic groups, NGOs and public authorities. The Bucharest firm's cofounders Alex Axinte and Cristi Borcan here describe how lack of investment under communism, followed by a capitalist flurry of private and commercial building, left Romania's citizens short of spaces for shared activities. As illustrated by several projects, they explain how they are going about addressing this issue, through establishing tools and frameworks as well as architectural design.
Going from Zero to 00: Indy Johar on Shifting the Focus of Practice from Objects to Outcomes
Authors: Castle Helen
Published: September 2018

It was a striving for social equality, coupled with an insatiable thirst for interdisciplinary knowledge, that led Indy Johar to co‐found London practice Architecture 00. In an interview with 1 Commissioning Editor Helen Castle, he reflects on his work to date and its place within a ‘boring revolution’ that proves far from boring, as technology transforms how cities are made, physically and organisationally. Notable among 00's output are the open‐source digital construction system WikiHouse, winner of a TED Prize for urban innovation, and the online platform Opendesk that enables customers worldwide to have a range of furniture made to order by manufacturers based near them.
Common Scales: From the Intimate and Human to the Strategic and Influential
Authors: Lewis Holly
Published: September 2018

Is there a middle way between ‘top‐down’ and ‘bottom‐up’ approaches to urban regeneration? According to Holly Lewis, co‐founder of architecture and urbanism studio We Made That, the answer is a resounding ‘Yes’ – and the key to it is communication. By both demystifying official policy and providing tools for local residents to formulate and express their priorities, the practice has been helping to ring the changes in boroughs in and around London.
Beads fabricated from alginate, hyaluronic acid, and gelatin using ionic crosslinking and layer‐by‐layer coating techniques for controlled release of gentamicin
Authors: Ratanavaraporn Juthamas , Chuma Nathaon , Kanokpanont Sorada , Damrongsakkul Siriporn
Published: September 2018

The alginate/hyaluronic acid (AL/HA) blended beads at different ratios (AL70HA30, AL50HA50, and AL30HA70) were formed by ionic crosslinking technique. The layer‐by‐layer coating of the beads with two opposite charged molecules, positive‐charged type A gelatin (GA), and negative‐charged AL, using alternate soaking technique was introduced to stabilize the beads. The AL70HA30, AL50HA50 beads showed high stability because of high ionic crosslinked AL component. Two‐layer coating resulted in an appropriate layer that maximized the stability of the AL/HA beads. The higher ratio of HA resulted in the higher water absorption ability but degradation rate was accelerated. An antibiotic gentamicin was loaded into the beads with the entrapment efficiency of 69–89%. The beads containing 30% and 50% HA and coated with two layers showed a sustained release of gentamicin while the release behavior was governed by the diffusion and degradation of the beads. The gentamicin released from all beads also potentially inhibited the growth ofStaphylococcus aureus(gram‐positive) andEscherichia coli(gram‐negative) bacteria up to at least 48 h. These beads with antibacterial activity can be further explored for the application as bone void filling material for treatment of infection in bone diseases such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci.2019,136, 46893.
A quantitative method to compare the effect of thermal aging on the mechanical performance of fire protective fabrics
Authors: Dolez Patricia I. , Tomer Namrata S. , Malajati Yassine
Published: September 2018

A method has been proposed to provide a means to compare in a quantitative and comprehensive way the mechanical performance of fire protective fabrics under long‐term thermal exposure. These high‐performance materials experience a reduction in their performance overtime due to the various conditions they are exposed to during the lifetime of the clothing. The proposed method consists in a system of two equations fitting the time–temperature‐performance data: the Arrhenius model combined with the time–temperature superposition principle, and the three‐parameter Hill equation. The result of the data analysis using this method is provided in terms of four parameters: the temperature effect, the time rate, the degradation midpoint time, and the ultimate strength. It was used to compare the effect of accelerated thermal aging on the tear strength of seven different fabrics used in fire protective clothing. In all cases, a very good agreement was observed with both the Arrhenius model and the Hill equation. However, none of the fabrics studied appeared to stand as displaying all the characteristics that would be ideal for long‐term fire protection. The best solution is thus a compromise that will depend on the type of activity conducted and the type of conditions experienced. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47045.
Giant Peripheral Ossifying Fibroma Treated With Piezosurgery and Platelet‐Rich Fibrin: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Freire Alice E.N. , da Silva Vanessa S.A. , Pereira Alessandro A.C. , Ribeiro Junior Noé V. , de Carli Marina L. , Sperandio Felipe F. , Hanemann João Adolfo C.
Published: September 2018

Introduction

The peripheral ossifying fibroma (POF) is a benign reactive lesion that exclusively arises from gingiva. The lesion may gain considerably large sizes and present peculiar clinical and radiographic features that would then allow it to be called a giant POF; in that case, its otherwise simple surgical extraction could create a challenge. Thus, we elect here, for the very first time, a plausible alternative for treating giant POF: piezosurgery followed by placement of platelet‐rich fibrin (PRF).

Case Presentation

A 31‐year‐old black male presented a large asymptomatic nodule on the lower gingiva; the lesion had caused vestibular displacement of teeth and had been present for 18 years. Following the diagnostic hypothesis of a giant POF, an excisional biopsy was performed under local anesthesia using piezosurgery (microvibration of 36,000 times/sec was used in a bone cortical working mode), which confirmed the diagnosis. The surgical procedure was facilitated with the use of piezosurgery followed by placement of PRF, being the trans‐ and postoperative periods occurred with no complications. One year after the treatment, the patient shows no signs of disease recurrence and remains under follow‐up.

Conclusions

Giant POF is a rare gingival reactive lesion that can reach large dimensions, causing teeth displacement, functional, and esthetic impairments. The lesion can be successfully managed with piezosurgery and PRF, as illustrated herein, avoiding extensive bone loss and damage to the surrounding soft tissues.
Scoring models in competency‐based educational assessment
Authors: Meyers Jason L.
Published: September 2018

Background

Assessments can be broadly classified into two categories based on how they are scored: compensatory or conjunctive. Compensatory models allow for strong performance in one content area to compensate for poor performance in another content area as long as the overall score meets the performance standard. Conjunctive scoring models require examinees to meet performance standards for each specified content area or some portion of content areas.

Methods

This study used data from a large competency‐based university to analyze the impact of retroactively switching from a compensatory model to one of four possible conjunctive models.

Results

Results indicated that scoring model has a strong impact on the percent of students who are classified as being competent. The percent of students “mis‐classified” as competent varied by college and the number of competencies measured by the test.

Discussion

Ultimately, setting performance standards is a policy decision. Policy considerations for model selection are discussed.

Conclusion

This preliminary research provided some evidence that students being classified as competent under a compensatory model may not display competence in all the areas being measured by the assessments.
Catalytic Asymmetric Darzens and Aza‐Darzens Reactions for the Synthesis of Chiral Epoxides and Aziridines
Authors: de los Santos Jesús M. , Ochoa de Retana Ana M. , Martínez de Marigorta Edorta , Vicario Javier , Palacios Francisco
Published: September 2018

This review presents an overview on the recent advances in the catalytic enantioselective Darzens and aza‐Darzens reactions for the synthesis of enantiopure three‐membered oxygen and nitrogen containing heterocycles. Since the synthesis of epoxides is the most widely explored, compared to their nitrogen counterparts, particularly true when asymmetric synthesis are considered, in the last decades several methodologies have appeared or improved and are now available for the preparation of aziridines in a highly stereo‐ and enantioselective manner. Catalytic asymmetric Darzens and aza‐Darzens reaction constitute an important tool in modern organic chemistry, as there is an increased interest in bioactive natural products and pharmaceutical agents that contain these skeletons.
Direct Catalytic Synthesis of N‐Arylcarbamates from CO2, Anilines and Alcohols
Authors: Tamura Masazumi , Miura Ayaka , Honda Masayoshi , Gu Yu , Nakagawa Yoshinao , Tomishige Keiichi
Published: September 2018

The direct catalytic synthesis of carbamates from CO2, amines and methanol was achieved by controlling both the reaction equilibrium and the reactivity of the three components. The combination of CeO2 and 2‐cyanopyridine was an effective catalyst, providing various carbamates including N‐arylcarbamates in high selectivities.
Band‐Pass Filter and Relaxation Oscillator using Electric Double‐Layer Capacitor
Authors: Allagui Anis , Elwakil Ahmed S. , Said Zafar , Abdelkareem Mohammad Ali , Zhang Di
Published: September 2018

Supercapacitors are electrochemical devices that can store and restore electrical energy and are mostly used for powering dc or close‐to‐dc applications. As such they have not been explored enough for non‐dc circuits. In this study, we implement a band‐pass for frequency selectivity purposes and a relaxation oscillator for timing applications using a solid‐state carbon electric double‐layer capacitor. The expected behavior was observed for both circuits in the sub‐Hertz and tens of Hertz frequency ranges. This confirms the possibility of using the frequency‐dependent capacitive behavior of such devices in non‐conventional low frequency applications not related to dc energy storage but requiring large time constants.
The Electrochemically Active Arsenic Oxidising Bacterium Ancylobacter sp. TS‐1
Authors: Anguita Javiera M. , Vera Mario A. , Vargas Ignacio T.
Published: September 2018

The study of electrochemically active microorganisms (EAMs) has revealed the metabolic versatility of chemolithoautotrophic microorganisms in bioelectrochemical systems (BESs). However, direct electron uptake from electrodes to support bacterial growth has been suggested only for the iron oxidiser Mariprofundus ferrooxydans, the sulfur oxidiser bacterium Thiobacillus denitrificans and the iron/sulfur oxidiser Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans. To the best of our knowledge, chemolithoautotrophic arsenite oxidisers (CAOs) have not been reported as biocathodic EAM. This paper studies the electrochemical activity of Ancylobacter sp. TS‐1, a new CAO. The electrochemical capacity of TS‐1 was evidenced by linear sweep voltammetry tests, revealing a peak of cathodic current dependent on biomass concentration at −500 mV (vs. Ag/AgCl, at pH 7.2); and by chronoamperometry, showing an increase in the cathodic current over time. Cathodic currents obtained for TS‐1 (9.5±2.4 μA/cm2) are comparable with values previously reported for A. ferrooxidans (∼27 μA/cm2) and M. ferrooxydans (∼8 μA/cm2). Scanning electron micrographs show TS‐1 cells on electrodes during the chronoamperometry, suggesting biofilm development of strain TS‐1 when using the cathode only as an electron donor. Hence, TS‐1 not only enlarges the list of known biocathodic EAMs, but also paves the way for novel BES applications on arsenic electro‐bioaugmentation and bioremediation.
Seismic behavior of reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete wall panels
Authors: Taghipour Armin , Canbay Erdem , Binici Baris , Aldemir Alper , Uzgan Uğur , Eryurtlu Zafer
Published: September 2018

Vertical reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) panel systems are among attractive alternatives for low‐rise buildings. The popularity of AAC panels in building construction is increasing due to their unique material properties, such as being light weight, good insulator, fire resistant combined with having high speed of erection and ease of quality control. However, past experimental evidence on the seismic response of reinforced vertical panels is rather limited with few tests on multi‐panel specimens. To overcome this issue, an experimental program was initiated to test six full‐scale AAC wall panel specimens. In the scope of this study, the in‐plane seismic behavior of AAC vertical load‐bearing wall panels was examined under constant axial load and two‐way cyclic lateral displacement excursions. First, the effect of axial loads on lateral behavior of reinforced AAC walls was investigated. For this purpose, four specimens composed of two and four AAC panels with and without axial loads were tested. Then, the effect of window opening was examined by conducting two more tests. The results of the experiments clearly indicated that the axial loads had a positive effect on the load carrying capacity. The window openings reduced the lateral strength and caused localization of the damage. The ultimate drift of the tested panels was found to be around 1%. The ability of estimating the measured moment versus curvature response of the tested specimens were examined for different adjacent panel assemblages. Finally, the code‐proposed equations to determine the lateral load capacity of AAC walls were critically reviewed in light of the experimental results.
Improving the recyclability, environmental compatibility, and CO2 balance of autoclaved aerated concrete by replacing sulfate carrier and cement with calcined clays
Authors: Chucholowski Carola , Holger Müller , Thienel Karl‐Christian
Published: September 2018

This paper is focused on developing innovative and novel formulations for autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) that could pave the way especially for medium‐size manufactures toward the production of low‐sulfate AAC. The aim was to significantly reduce the sulfate concentrations in eluate and, as a consequence, to successfully cope with the existing and upcoming regulatory restrictions on the recyclability of construction waste from AAC. This should, in parallel, satisfy European demands for a reduction in the volume of waste and an increased recyclability of building materials. For achieving this goal, the AAC formulations required a cement content as low as possible and an appropriate alternative to the sulfate carriers used to date. The tasks of these two mentioned components (cement and sulfate carrier) should be taken over by calcined clay. Tests yielded promising results for the complete replacement of the sulfate carrier and a substitution of 20 wt.% of the cement by either of two types of calcined clay in the AAC formulation. The amount of leachable sulfate ions was reduced by up to 70% compared to the reference samples. The amount of crystalline tobermorite remained constant or was even higher in the samples with calcined clay. The amount of crystalline tobermorite can serve as an indicator of the mechanical strength and shrinkage behavior. However, the mechanical characteristics of autoclaved aerated concrete specimens with calcined clay will be determined in a subsequent project. In this follow‐up project, the formulations developed under laboratory conditions are to be implemented on an industrial scale.
Influence of reinforced concrete confining on the load‐bearing capacity of the AAC walls
Authors: Drobiec Łukasz , Rybarczyk Tomasz
Published: September 2018

The paper describes the results of testing autoclaved aerated concert walls on a natural scale. Walls were made of 18 cm wide blocks and thin layer joints. Tests on confined and unconfined walls with filled and unfilled perpend joints were made. The load‐bearing capacity and deformability of walls were analyzed.
Structural performance of AAC hybrid floor system
Authors: Iihoshi Chikara , Sugawara Takashi , Sonobe Manabu , Kobayashi Hirokazu
Published: September 2018

Current floor systems of Australian low‐rise steel residential houses and buildings consist of cold‐formed light‐gauge steel floor joists and mainly sheet flooring (particleboard). There are potentially some issues including uncomfortable floor vibration and noise, which could annoy the occupants. In Australia, there are several different types of steel floor systems as well as timber systems. Few research on structural performance of Australian floor systems including flooring materials in terms of vibration has been carried out and reported. This paper describes present Australian common steel and timber floor systems and their structural characteristics obtained by static and dynamic loading tests with regard to human comfort. Additionally, a new hybrid AAC flooring system with steel frames is proposed and tested compared with common sheet flooring. It is found that AAC panels connected to the particleboards can greatly improve human comfort but not fundamental frequency.
Past and future of Hebel Haus in Japan
Authors: Kuroki Kouji
Published: September 2018

It is 50 years since the AAC (Hebel) technology was introduced in Japan. During this half century, we have sold Hebel Haus™ homes using the Hebel™ in floors, walls, and ceilings. The total number of unit homes sold has now exceeded 250,000, and we are constructing Hebel Haus™ homes in Japan at a rate of about 8000 units every year. Japan is a country that frequently suffers from natural disasters. To protect our customers’ lives and properties we have developed a construction method that combines steel‐framed structure with AAC (Hebel) materials. With our integrated system from construction to sales and after‐sale services, renovation, and the second‐hand housing distribution, we have achieved the status of the top urban housing brand in Japan. Here we are going to present an outline of our Hebel Haus history, marketing strategy, technologies, designs, and lifestyle proposals in Japan.
Damage reduction system for masonry infill walls under seismic loading
Authors: Butenweg Christoph , Marinković Marko
Published: September 2018

Reinforced concrete (RC) frames with masonry infills are frequently used in seismic regions all over the world. Generally masonry infills are considered as nonstructural elements and thus are typically neglected in the design process. However, the observations made after strong earthquakes have shown that masonry infills can modify the dynamic behavior of the structure significantly. The consequences were total collapses of buildings and loss of human lives. This paper presents the new system INODIS (Innovative Decoupled Infill System) developed within the European research project INSYSME (Innovative Systems for Earthquake Resistant Masonry Enclosures in RC Buildings). INODIS decouples the frame and the masonry infill by means of special U‐shaped rubbers placed in between frame and infill. The effectiveness of the system was investigated by means of full scale tests on RC frames with masonry infills subjected to in‐plane and out‐of‐plane loading. Furthermore small specimen tests were conducted to determine material characteristics of the components and the resistances of the connections. Finally, a micromodel was developed to simulate the in‐plane behavior of RC frames infilled with AAC blocks with and without installation of the INODIS system.
Poromix AAC additive – A new front in AAC development
Authors: Horała Wojciech Jan
Published: September 2018

Additives and plasticizers have been used for decades in the concrete industry where they are commonly applied to increase the efficiency and performance of concrete. Due to the fact that autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) production requires specific chemical reactions, additives that are used in traditional concrete industry are not suitable for the production of AAC and new types need to be developed. With this know‐how gap in the market and the fact that most AAC plants do not use any type of additives, there is ample room for improvements on the industry level. Looking into how AAC can be improved on chemistry level, a successful research and development program resulted in a range of new AAC additives called POROMIX. Among other benefits, modern AAC additives allow for reduction of water, reduction of binders, improved pores, and mass distribution. The benefits are twofold – on one hand AAC products can be made in better quality and on the other hand leaner formulas can be applied. This paper showcases success stories and outlines development steps for the industry.
Nanostructured high insulating autoclaved aerated concrete
Authors: Stumm Andreas , Schweike Uwe , Stemmermann Peter
Published: September 2018

Efficient insulation for residential buildings is one of the keys for implementing an energy transition. The technology used for exterior walls is usually made by combining load‐bearing and difficult to recycle insulating components. For this reason, Celitement GmbH, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology and Xella Technology and Research have joined their forces to develop a high insulating AAC block, which is also resource efficient using the main components quick lime, sand, and water. The thermal conductivity of the AAC was reduced. Macropores formed in the conventional production process by hydrogen gas, diameter of approximately 1 mm, could be partially replaced by lightweight aggregates, with an average pore diameter of 50 nm. A process for producing lightweight aggregate, which is based on optimized, hydraulically active calcium hydro silicate binders (Celitement), was developed. The aggregate quantity in AAC could be raised to 40% by weight through optimizing formulation and mixing. This project, sponsored by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research, ended in 2017. Based on the results so far, it is worth pursuing this approach in the future, whereby the material properties of the CSH granules could be further improved to obtain the sought final AAC product.
Effect of carbonation on the performance of autoclaved aerated concrete
Authors: Łaskawiec Katarzyna , Woyciechowski Piotr
Published: September 2018

Anthropogenic carbon dioxide emissions contribute to the greenhouse effect and represent a major concern for environmental protection. Carbon dioxide concentrations in the atmosphere range from 0.03 to 0.3%. Combustion of fossil fuels and deforestation are the main human activities that have led to increased levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide. Anthropogenic carbon dioxide emissions can be reduced by making industrial use of the emitted carbon dioxide, notably in the production of construction products containing mineral binders. In the majority of published results of research on carbonation, the main focus of research was to examine the effect of carbonation on corrosion risk of reinforcement steel and the estimated service life of reinforced concrete structures. However, there are relatively few studies that analyze the effect of carbonation on matrices in composites based on mineral binders, including autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC). This paper presents preliminary results of studies to determine the influence of carbonation on the specific qualities of AAC linked to its durability. Structural research will also be presented to determine the levels of CO2 absorption and the degree of carbonation of AAC.
Requirements for renders on modern autoclaved aerated concrete
Authors: Hartmann Andrea , Loderer Franz
Published: September 2018

The development of modern autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) leads to high thermal insulating masonry. Over the last years the reduction of the thermal conductivity of masonry units has been reached by reducing the bulk density and partly reducing the strength properties. AAC masonry is covered with an external rendering system to resist weathering and also to determine the appearance of the building. The structure of rendering systems is mainly influenced by the composition and characteristics of the substrate on which it shall be applied and to resist properly the impact of weathering. Looking to the future of the development of modern AAC with the aim to improve the material properties, for example, the thermal insulation, render systems for these modern AAC products have to be developed. “Modern renders” have to orient to the special properties and behavior of such wall materials not only because of lower densities and lower strength but also regarding deformation behavior.
Size effect of monotonically sheared masonry walls made of AAC masonry units
Authors: Jasiński Radosław
Published: September 2018

The paper presents results of shear tests on 13 walls made of autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) masonry units. Four series of walls varying in length equal to l = 4.43, 2.95, 2.36, and 1.48 m, and an identical height of h = 2.43 m were made and tested. The thickness of all walls was identical and equal to t = 0.18 m. Compressive strength of material masonry units and mortar for thin joints was equal to fb = 4.0 N/mm2 and fm = 6.1 N/mm2. The wall compression strength (according to EN 1052‐1:2000) was fc,mv = 2.97 N/mm2 (fk = 2.48 N/mm2) and elastic modulus was Ecm = 2.040 N/mm2. Walls were tested at various initial compressive stresses perpendicular to the plane of support joints σc = 0.1, 0.75, and 1.00 N/mm2. Shear load was applied to the upper edge of walls in a monotonic manner, controlling the load increment. The morphology of cracking and the mechanism of destruction were analyzed. In addition, empirical dependencies were formulated to determine the effect of initial compressive stresses and the impact of wal thickness h/l.
Dissecting the Mechanism of Oligomerization and Macrocyclization Reactions of NRPS‐Independent Siderophore Synthetases
Authors: Rütschlin Sina , Böttcher Thomas
Published: September 2018

Macrocyclic and linear hydroxamate siderophores produced by NRPS‐independent siderophore (NIS; NRPS=nonribosomal peptide synthetase) synthetases are important in the bacterial competition for iron, as virulence factors, and as drugs for medical use in humans. Despite their importance, the mechanistic details of NIS synthetases have so far remained obscure. Using synthetic substrate analogues as tools allowed for an interrogation of the mechanism of the two closely related NIS synthetases AvbD and DesD. While AvbD produces macrocyclic homo‐ and heterodimers as native products, DesD is responsible for the synthesis of trimeric desferrioxamines. These enzymes comprise two adjacent binding sites with different substrate selectivities, which direct oligomerization and macrocyclization steps. Exploiting this difference, synthetic substrates were used to invert the native affinities for the sites resulting in switching from trimerization to dimerization reactions for DesD. Based on this work, a comprehensive model explaining the mechanistic details of the reactions and the differences between trimerizing and dimerizing enzymes was developed. Finally, a DesD mutant demonstrated the tuneability of the enzyme's substrate selectivity by only minor changes in the protein sequence. This finding confirms the affinity‐directed mechanism responsible for the iterativity of oligomerization and macrocyclization steps.
Adsorption of Gaseous Elemental Mercury by Ferric‐Chloride‐Modified Activated Carbon Under Low‐Temperature Conditions
Authors: Wang Xueqian , Wang Langlang , Bian Zhentao , Ning Ping , Wang Ping , Wang Fei , Ma Yixing
Published: September 2018

Removal efficiency of elemental mercury (Hg0) over activated carbon (AC) modified with ferric chloride (FeCl3) is investigated at low temperatures. The effects of impregnation concentration, reaction temperature, oxygen content, relative humidity, and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) on Hg0 removal efficiency are investigated. The results indicate that the removal ability of Hg0 can be significantly improved by the introduction of FeCl3. Furthermore, the FeCl3‐modified AC exhibit the best removal efficiency toward Hg0 when the concentration of FeCl3 is 0.15 mol L−1 and reaction temperature is 50 °C. In addition, H2S shows a positive effect on Hg0 removal, while H2O(g) can inhibit the removal of Hg0 due to competitive adsorption. Fe2O3 and CCl are generated on FeCl3‐modified AC (with FeCl3 impregnation concentration of 0.15 mol L−1) catalyst and contribute to Hg0 removal. Moreover, Hg exists mainly in the form of mercuric chloride (HgCl2) and mercuric oxide (HgO) on the surface of the samples. Finally, the removal of Hg0 is achieved through the following two pathways: by the reaction of Hg0 with CCl and reaction of Hg0 with Fe2O3.
The diffusion of corporate social responsibility through social network ties: From the perspective of strategic imitation
Authors: Zou Hailiang , Xie Xuemei , Meng Xiaohua , Yang Mengyu
Published: September 2018

Drawing on institutional and organizational learning theories, this study empirically investigates the imitation of corporate social responsibility (CSR) between firms tied by board interlocks, an important type of corporate social network tie. We propose a positive relationship between the CSR engagement of a focal firm and that of its tied‐to partners and examine how this relationship is moderated by the characteristics of both the focal and tied‐to firms. Using a sample of Chinese‐listed companies, empirical evidence is provided to show that a firm's engagement in symbolic CSR is in a positive relationship with that of its tied‐to partners; this relationship becomes stronger for smaller firms and those facing high uncertainty. Furthermore, when firms are linked to smaller firms, this relationship becomes more prominent. Our findings contribute to the CSR and social network literature, as well as the research on strategic imitation. Finally, implications for business management and government policy are discussed.
Murine eosinophil development and allergic lung eosinophilia are largely dependent on the signaling adaptor GRB2
Authors: Willebrand Ralf , Dietschmann Axel , Nitschke Lars , Krappmann Sven , Voehringer David
Published: September 2018

Eosinophils are innate effector cells associated with allergic inflammation. Their development and survival is largely dependent on IL‐5 and the common beta chain (βc) of the IL‐5 receptor that serves as docking site for several proteins that mediate down‐stream signaling cascades including JAK/STAT, PI3 kinase, NFκB, and RAS‐MAP kinase pathways. The relative contribution of these signaling pathways for eosinophil development and homeostasis in vivo are poorly understood. Here, we investigated the role of GRB2, an adaptor protein that binds to βc and other proteins and elicits the RAS‐MAP kinase pathway. By using GRB2 inhibitors and inducible deletion of the Grb2 gene in mouse eosinophils we demonstrate that GRB2 plays a critical role for development of eosinophils from bone marrow precursors. Furthermore, Aspergillus fumigatus‐induced allergic lung eosinophilia was significantly reduced in mice with induced genetic deletion of Grb2. Our results indicate that GRB2 is important for eosinophil development in steady‐state conditions and during allergic inflammation. Based on these findings pharmacologic GRB2 inhibitors may have the potential to dampen tissue eosinophilia in various eosinophil‐associated diseases.
Whole‐Exome Sequencing Study of Extreme Phenotypes of NAFLD
Authors: Kleinstein Sarah E. , Rein Matthew , Abdelmalek Manal F. , Guy Cynthia D. , Goldstein David B. , Mae Diehl Anna , Moylan Cynthia A.
Published: September 2018

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a heterogeneous disease with highly variable outcomes. Patients with simple steatosis typically experience a benign course, whereas those with more advanced liver injury, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and advanced stage fibrosis suffer increased risk for complications such as cirrhosis, hepatic decompensation, and liver cancer. Genetic variants in patatin‐like phospholipase domain‐containing 3 (PNPLA3) and transmembrane 6 superfamily member 2 (TM6SF2) and clinical factors including diabetes, obesity, and older age increase a patient's risk for NASH, advanced fibrosis, and worse outcomes. Despite substantial investigation and identification of some common variants associated with NAFLD and advanced fibrosis, the genetics and functional mechanisms remain poorly understood. This study aimed to identify genetic variants by whole‐exome sequencing of NAFLD phenotypes to provide novel insights into mechanisms behind NAFLD pathogenesis and variability. We sequenced 82 patients with liver biopsy–confirmed NAFLD and 4455 population controls. NAFLD patients were divided into extreme phenotypes based on liver fibrosis stage and clinical risk factors to investigate rare variants that might predispose to or protect from advanced NAFLD fibrosis. We compared NAFLD extremes to each other and individually to population controls, exploring genetic variation at both the single‐variant and gene‐based level. We replicated known associations with PNPLA3 and TM6SF2 and advanced fibrosis, despite sample‐size limitations. We also observed enrichment of variation in distinct genes for progressor or protective NAFLD phenotypes, although these genes did not reach statistical significance. Conclusion: We report the first whole‐exome sequencing study of genetic variation in liver biopsy–confirmed NAFLD susceptibility and severity, using a small cohort of extreme NAFLD phenotypes and a large cohort of population controls.
Designing interoperable health information systems using Enterprise Architecture approach in resource‐limited countries: A literature review
Authors: Higman Susan , Dwivedi Vikas , Nsaghurwe Alpha , Busiga Moses , Sotter Rulagirwa Hermes , Smith Dasha , Wright Chris , Nyinondi Ssanyu , Nyella Edwin
Published: September 2018

Background

Enterprise Architecture (EA) integrates business and technical processes in health information systems (HIS). Low‐income and middle‐income countries (LMIC) use EA to combine management components with disease tracking and health care service monitoring. Using an EA approach differs by country, addressing specific needs.

Methods

Articles in this review referenced EA, were peer‐reviewed or gray literature reports published in 2010 to 2016 in English, and were identified using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar.

Results

Fourteen articles described EA use in LMICs. India, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Mozambique, and Rwanda reported building the system to meet country needs and implement a cohesive HIS framework. Jordan and Taiwan focused on specific HIS aspects, ie, disease surveillance and electronic medical records. Five studies informed the context. The Millennium Villages Project employed a “uniform but contextualized” approach to guide systems in 10 countries; Malaysia, Indonesia, and Tanzania used interviews and mapping of existing components to improve HIS, and Namibia used of Activity Theory to identify technology‐associated activities to better understand EA frameworks. South Africa, Burundi, Kenya, and Democratic Republic of Congo used EA to move from paper‐based to electronic systems.

Conclusions

Four themes emerged: the importance of multiple sectors and data sources, the need for interoperability, the ability to incorporate system flexibility, and the desirability of open group models, data standards, and software. Themes mapped to EA frameworks and operational components and to health system building blocks and goals. Most articles focused on processes rather than outcomes, as countries are engaged in implementation.
Estrogen metabolism in menopausal hormone users in the women's health initiative observational study: Does it differ between estrogen plus progestin and estrogen alone?
Authors: Falk Roni T. , Manson JoAnn E. , Barnabei Vanessa M. , Anderson Garnet L. , Brinton Louise A. , Rohan Thomas E. , Cauley Jane A. , Chen Chu , Coburn Sally B. , Pfeiffer Ruth M. , Reding Kerryn W. , Sarto Gloria E. , Wentzensen Nicolas , Chlebowski Rowan T. , Xu Xia , Trabert Britton
Published: September 2018

The WHI found an unexpected reduced breast cancer risk in women using CEE alone. We hypothesized CEE alone induces estrogen hydroxylation along the 2‐pathway rather than the competing 16‐pathway, a pattern linked to reduced postmenopausal breast cancer risk. One thousand eight hundred and sixty‐four women in a WHIOS case–control study of estrogen metabolism and ovarian and endometrial cancer were studied of whom 609 were current E + P users (351 used CEE + MPA), while 272 used E alone (162 used CEE). Fifteen EM were measured, and analyses were conducted for each metabolite, hydroxylation pathway (2‐, 4‐, or 16‐pathway) and ratios of pathway concentrations using inverse probability weighted linear regression. Compared to E + P users, all EM were higher in E alone users (significant for unconjugated estrone, total/conjugated estradiol, total/unconjugated 2‐methoxyestrone, 4‐methoxyestrone and unconjugated estriol). The relative concentrations of 2‐ and 4‐pathway EM did not differ between the MHT users (2‐pathway EM comprised 15% and 4‐pathway EM <2% of the total), but 16‐pathway EM were lower in E alone users (p = 0.036). Ratios of 2‐ and 4‐pathway EM compared to 16‐pathway EM were significantly higher in E alone compared to E + P users. Similar but not significant patterns were observed in CEE‐alone and CEE + MPA users. Our data suggest that compared to E + P users, women using E alone have more extensive metabolism via the 2‐ vs. the competing 16‐pathway. This is consistent with epidemiologic evidence of reduced postmenopausal breast cancer risk associated with this metabolic profile and may provide a clue to the breast cancer risk reduction in CEE alone users during the WHI.