bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Current and future spatial assessment of biological control as a mechanism to reduce economic losses and carbon emissions: the case of Solanum sisymbriifolium in Africa
Authors: Alaniz Alberto J , Núñez‐Hidalgo Ignacio , Carvajal Mario A , Alvarenga Thiago M , Gómez‐Cantillana Paulina , Vergara Pablo M
Published: February 2020

BACKGROUND

Solanum sisymbriifolium is a native plant of South America introduced into Africa, which has detrimental effects on crop yields, and on the environment due to weed control treatment by burning. In South America, S. sisymbriifolium is naturally controlled by the beetle Gratiana spadicea, making this a potential option for its control in Africa. Here, we aim to generate current and future scenarios for the introduction of G. spadicea as a biocontrol agent in Africa, analysing: (i) current and future effective biocontrol areas; (ii) potentially avoided economic losses (AEL), and chemical control costs and savings; and (iii) avoided carbon emissions (ACE) associated with the non‐burning of crop fields. We combine species distribution models (SDM) with land cover maps to estimate current and future effective biocontrol considering Representative Concentration Pathways (RCP) 4.5 and 8.5 climate change scenarios. We then estimate AEL and ACE using biocontrol, and chemical control costs and savings.

RESULTS

The effective biocontrol area reached 392 405 km2 in 18 countries, representing 40% of potentially affected croplands. Climate change induced a decrease in affected croplands and effective biocontrol. The estimated AEL reached US$45 447.2 ± 5617.3 billion distributed across 16 countries, while the estimated chemical control costs and savings reached US$1988.5 billion and 1411.8 billion, respectively. Potential ACE reached 36.3 ± 5.4 Tg.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study provides evidence for the potential benefits of biological controllers on economic losses and carbon emissions, which can be incorporated into sustainable development in low‐income countries.
Characterizing physical habitat preferences and thermal refuge occupancy of brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) and Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) at high river temperatures
Authors: Wilbur Nathan M. , O'Sullivan Antóin M. , MacQuarrie Kerry T. B. , Linnansaari Tommi , Curry R. Allen
Published: February 2020

Anthropogenic influences, including climate change, are increasing river temperatures in northern and temperate regions and threatening the thermal habitats of native salmonids. When river temperatures exceed the tolerance levels of brook trout and Atlantic salmon, individuals exhibit behavioural thermoregulation by seeking out cold‐water refugia – often created by tributaries and groundwater discharge. Thermal infrared (TIR) imagery was used to map cold‐water anomalies along a 53 km reach of the Cains River, New Brunswick. Trout and salmon parr did not use all identified thermal anomalies as refugia during higher river temperature periods (>21°C). Most small‐bodied trout (8–30 cm) were observed in 80% of the thermal anomalies sampled. Large‐bodied trout (>35 cm) required a more specific set of physical habitat conditions for suitable refugia, that is, 100% of observed large trout used 30% of the anomalies sampled and required water depths >65 cm within or adjacent to the anomaly. Densities of trout were significantly higher within anomalies compared with areas of ambient river temperature. Salmon parr were less aligned with thermal anomalies at the observed temperatures, that is, 59% were found in 65% of the sampled anomalies; and densities were not significantly different within/ outside anomalies. Salmon parr appeared to aggregate at 27°C, and after several events over 27°C variability in aggregation behaviour was observed – some fish aggregated at 25°C, others did not. We stipulate this is due to variances of thermal fatigue. Habitat suitability curves were developed for velocity, temperature, depth, substrate, and deep water availability to characterize conditions preferred by fish during high‐temperature events. These findings are useful for managers as our climate warms, and can potentially be used as a tool to help conserve and enhance thermal refugia for brook trout and Atlantic salmon in similar systems.
Gas‐Diffusivity based characterization of aggregated agricultural soils
Authors: Jayarathne J. R. R. N. , Chamindu Deepagoda T. K. K. , Clough Timothy J. , Nasvi M.C.M. , Thomas Steve , Elberling Bo , Smits Kathleen
Published: February 2020

Grazed pastures and cultivated fields are significant sources of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, in particular N2O emissions derived from fertilizer deposition and animal excreta. Net surface emissions rely on subsurface gas transfer controlled mainly by diffusion, expressed as the soil‐gas diffusivity (Dp/Do). The value of Dp/Do is a function of soil air‐filled porosity (ε) and gaseous phase tortuosity (Ʈ), both of which vary with soil physical properties including soil texture and structure. Agricultural soils are often structurally aggregated and characterized by two distinct regions (inter‐ and intra‐aggregated pores), however, such soils are subjected to frequent compaction and tillage resulting in alteration to structural arrangement. In this study, a comparative analysis between the Currie (1960) and Taylor (1949) methods was performed to provide a computational insight into selecting an appropriate method for calculating Dp/Do in agricultural soils. Currie's (1960) method was chosen for further analysis of the soils in this study. Results show that the Dp/Do in aggregated soil cannot be expressed using a simple linear, power law or combined linear and power law functions due to the presence of two‐region characteristics. A new “Two‐Region model” was developed to parameterize the Dp/Do of aggregated soils, and tested against repacked samples from two Sri Lankan agricultural soils. This Two‐Region model clearly distinguished tortuosity effects on gas movement with respect to density and textural variations within and between aggregates and outperformed previous models. The fitting parameters (α1, α2, β1 and β2) varied correspondingly with soil density, and the weighting factor (w) clearly distinguished the boundary between the two regions (inter‐ and intra‐aggregates) of structured soils. The model developed will be of interest to those seeking to model the diffusion of GHG emissions and gas exchange between the atmosphere and soils.
Palladium Acetate and Pd Nanoparticles Loaded Hexamethylenetetramine Anchored Magnetically Retrievable Assemblies for Catalyzing Mizoroki‐Heck Type Mono and Gem‐Dicoupling Reactions
Authors: Rathod Prakash B. , Kumar K. S. Ajish , Kumar Mukesh , Debnath A. K. , Pandey Ashok K. , Athawale Anjali A.
Published: February 2020

Fe3O4 nanoparticles have been covalently coated and chemically modified to anchor hexamethylenetetramine (Fe3O4@HMTA) for hosting Pd catalysts such as palladium acetate and palladium nanoparticles. Thus prepared nanocatalyst assemblies have been extensively characterized for their chemical, physical, thermal and magnetic properties. The turnover number and turnover frequency of these catalysts in a model Mizoroki‐Heck coupling reaction involving 3‐acrylomorpholine and iodobenzene with a base as solvent are found to be 186 and 46 h−1, respectively, which are better than that reported in literature. This was attributed to synergistic effect of local basic environment of HMTA rich in tertiary nitrogen content. Gem‐dicoupled products are formed when reactions are performed in the presence of 1 equivalent of acrylate and 2.1 equivalents of aryl iodide, and gem‐hetero‐dicoupled product is obtained when reaction is performed in sequential manner. The mechanisms of the formation of the gem‐homo‐dicoupled and gem‐hetero‐dicoupled products have been elucidated by using the results obtained from NMR and single crystal X‐ray crystallography studies.
A New Fluorescent Sensor for Fe3+ Based on Glycoluril Molecular Clip
Authors: Yan Qiaoli , Liu Wenjin , Wen Hongliang , Zhibin Xu , Meng Zihui
Published: February 2020

The application of fluorescent method to metal ions detection features high sensitivity, simple operation and real‐time monitoring. A 2,7‐dihydroxynaphthalene‐functionalized dimethyl glycoluril (called clip 1) was synthesized, using a relatively simple method. And it is fully characterized by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, HR‐MS and single crystal X‐ray diffraction. The recognition properties of molecular clip 1 were analyzed systematically toward several metal ions using fluorescence spectroscopy, and it was found that molecular clip 1 is selective and sensitive to Fe3+. At the same time, the clip 1 shows good anti‐interference ability when other metal ions existed. The limit detection of Fe3+ is 3×10−7M. The fluorescence of clip 1 was quenched apparently by Fe3+, which was speculated to be caused by ligand–metal charge transfer mechanism (LMCT). As a new fluorescence probe for Fe3+ ion, it may expanded the application of glycoluril molecular clips.
LPG Direct Synthesis from Syngas over a Cu/ZnO/ZrO2/Al2O3@H‐β Zeolite Capsule Catalyst Prepared by a Facile Physical Method
Authors: Du Ce , Hondo Emmerson , Gapu Chizema Linet , Shen Dongming , Ma Qingxiang , Yan Xiao , Mo Shuting , Lu Peng , Tsubaki Noritatsu
Published: February 2020

Liquid Petroleum Gas has recently captured great attention worldwide due to the escalating demand for non‐oil eco‐friendly fuel resources. However, the catalytic synthesis process still possesses some thermodynamic and raw material conversion flaws, in addition to unfavorable occurrence of side reactions. Herein, we present an advanced core‐shell hybrid catalyst, facilely prepared by the physical coating method, promoting not only high product yield, but also effectively eliminating design limitations accrued on employing the hydrothermal synthesis technique. The designed capsule catalyst, named CZZA@H‐β‐P‐3, has Cu/ZnO/ZrO2/Al2O3 (CZZA) catalyst as core and H‐β zeolite as shell. CZZA@H‐β‐P‐3 capsule catalyst was then used for direct synthesis of liquefied petroleum gas from syngas. A general mixture catalyst, Mix‐CZZA−H‐β, was used for comparison under same conditions. XRD, SEM‐EDS and NH3‐TPD characterization techniques were utilized to probe the extrinsic/intrinsic properties of the as‐prepared catalysts. CZZA@H‐β‐P‐3 exhibited excellent activity, in comparison. At optimal conditions, CZZA@H‐β‐P‐3 increased CO conversion from 40.94 % to 54.8 %, and LPG selectivity from 17.01 % to 26.04 %. Dimethyl ether (DME) selectivity decreased to zero. The excellent catalytic activity displayed on CZZA@H‐β‐P‐3 capsule catalyst was credited to the special core‐shell structure constructed from highly synergetic materials with a confined reaction affection, which uniquely accelerated syngas conversion to LPG.
Acylruthenium Complexes from Reactions of RuCl2(PPh3)3 with Terminal Alkynes
Authors: Sha Yuzhuo , Bai Wei , Zhou Yan , Jiang Jingyang , Ju Xianchun
Published: February 2020

Reactions of 1‐phenylethyne HC≡C−Ph and 1‐octyne HC≡C‐(CH2)5CH3 with RuCl2(PPh3)3 (1) were carried out in the presence of concentrated HCl aqueous solution, and new acyl complexes Ru(=C=CHPh)(‐C(=O)CH2Ph)Cl(PPh3)2 (2) and Ru(‐C(=O)(CH2)6CH3)Cl(CO)(PPh3)2 (3) are isolated. Further decarbonylation produces Ru(‐C(CH2Ph)=CHPh)Cl(CO)(PPh3)2 (4) and RuHCl(CO)2(PPh3)2 (5), respectively. These are the first examples of stoichiometric anti‐Markovnikov hydration of terminal alkynes involving complexes without polydentate ligands.
Realizing Stable Artificial Photon Energy Harvesting Based on Perovskite Solar Cells for Diverse Applications
Authors: Sun Haoxuan , Deng Kaimo , Jiang Yu , Ni Jiangfeng , Xiong Jie , Li Liang
Published: February 2020

As the fastest developing photovoltaic device, perovskite solar cells have achieved an extraordinary power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 25.3% under AM 1.5 illumination. However, few studies have been devoted to perovskite solar cells harvesting artificial light, owing to the great challenge in the simultaneous manipulation of bandgap‐adjustable perovskite materials, corresponding matched energy band structure of carrier transport materials, and interfacial defects. Herein, through systematic morphology, composition, and energy band engineering, high‐quality Cs0.05MA0.95PbBrxI3−xperovskite as the light absorber and NbyTi1−yO2(Nb:TiO2) as the electron transport material with an ideal energy band alignment are obtained simultaneously. The theoretical‐limit‐approaching record PCEs of 36.3% (average: 34.0 ± 1.2%) under light‐emitting diode (LED, warm white) and 33.2% under fluorescent lamp (cold white) are achieved simultaneously, as well as a PCE of 19.5% (average: 18.9 ± 0.3%) under solar illumination. An integrated energy conversion and storage system based on an artificial light response solar cell and sodium‐ion battery is established for diverse practical applications, including a portable calculator, quartz clock, and even environmental monitoring equipment. Over a week of stable operation shows its great practical potential and provides a new avenue to promote the commercialization of perovskite photovoltaic devices via integration with ingenious electronic devices.
Solid Additives for Improving the Performance of Sulfur Cathodes in Lithium–Sulfur Batteries—Adsorbents, Mediators, and Catalysts
Authors: Ye Hualin , Lee Jim Yang
Published: February 2020

Lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries, with high theoretical energy density and the low cost of sulfur, have the most appeal as the successor to lithium‐ion batteries. Their performance to date is however undermined by the redox shuttling of dissolved polysulfides between the cathode and anode during battery cycling. Though substantial improvements are made with the use of solid additives, which are described in the literature as adsorbents, mediators, or catalysts for the sulfur cathodes, it is still a challenge to differentiate the specific functions suggested by their names due to the incomplete understanding of the 16‐electron sulfur electrochemical reaction. Here the research on solid additives in the development timeline of Li–S batteries is reviewed, and some perspectives on the deployment method are provided which can optimize the performance of solid additives (catalysts, in particular) in Li–S batteries.
Lithium nephropathy: Unique sonographic appearance and application of new on cart tools
Authors: Kapkanova Natasha , Elliott Carla , Lucas Deneah
Published: February 2020

Renal toxicity is a well‐known side effect of long‐term lithium use, which may lead to chronic renal failure. Ultrasonography is effective in the assessment of this unique disorder. This case report describes the ultrasound appearances of lithium nephropathy in a 65‐year‐old female on long‐term lithium use. It will also discuss the application of shear wave elastography (SWE), the use of the hepatorenal index (HRI), and MicroPure as potential aids in the diagnosis of this condition.
Innovation Bridgers: The new talent imperative
Authors: Hunsaker B. Tom
Published: February 2020

As operating environments grow more dynamic the need for talent who can successfully identify promising opportunities, validate to distinguish highest potential, and win adoption for their ideas increases. Bridgers embody these skills and use them to uncover valuable new advantages. This article describes the key Bridger competences and how organizations benefit from them.
Setting the Stage for TALK: Strategies for Encouraging Language‐Building Conversations
Authors: Hadley Elizabeth Burke , Newman Katherine M. , Mock Jinsil
Published: February 2020

Supporting young students’ oral language development is vital in ensuring their future success as readers. One important way that early childhood teachers can foster language development is by having extended conversations with students. The authors share research about the importance of rich teacher–student conversations and explain how less verbal students may miss out on conversational opportunities. The authors also explain how to create conditions in the classroom that are supportive of students’ engagement and talk, then give specific strategies for encouraging extended conversations.
Motivating Writers With Authentic Audiences
Authors: Ring Megan
Published: February 2020

Voices From the Classroom essays share readers’ reflections on teaching experiences, advice for new teachers, and perspectives on current issues.
Stop Surfing and Scuba Dive Into the Text
Authors: Powell Nathalie
Published: February 2020

Voices From the Classroom essays share readers’ reflections on teaching experiences, advice for new teachers, and perspectives on current issues.
Cover Image, Volume 10, Issue 2
Authors: Portillo‐Ledesma Stephanie , Schlick Tamar
Published: February 2020

The cover image is based on the Advanced Review Bridging chromatin structure and function over a range of experimental spatial and temporal scales by molecular modeling by Stephanie Portillo‐Ledesma and Tamar Schlick. https://doi.org/10.1002/wcms.1434

image
Data mining powered by the gene ontology
Authors: Manda Prashanti
Published: February 2020

The gene ontology (GO) is a widely used resource for describing molecular functions, biological processes, and cellular components of gene products. Since its inception in 2006, the GO has been used to describe millions of gene products resulting in a massive data store of over 6 million annotations. The staggering amount of data that has resulted from annotating gene products with GO terms has led the way and opened new avenues for a wide variety of large‐scale computational analyses. Specifically, a variety of data mining techniques such as association rule mining, clustering etc. have been applied successfully to a range of biological applications. This article provides a review of four data mining applications/techniques for GO data mining gene expression data, association rule mining, clustering, and text mining and highlights future directions in each of these areas.

This article is categorized under:

Algorithmic Development > Association Rules

Algorithmic Development > Biological Data Mining

Ensemble Methods > Text Mining
Structural, Magnetic and Thermoelectric Properties of hp‐Mn3Ge5
Authors: Castillo Rodrigo , Schnelle Walter , Bobnar Matej , Cardoso‐Gil Raul , Schwarz Ulrich , Grin Yuri
Published: February 2020

Mn3Ge5 was obtained by high‐pressure, high temperature synthesis. The compound adopts a Nowotny‐Chimney‐Ladder type crystal structure [tetragonal, space group P4n2, a = 5.7449(1) Å, c = 13.9096(4) Å, Z = 4]. Magnetic measurements reveal a ferromagnetic transition around 40 K and metallic conductivity in the temperature range from 3 K to 350 K. Despite a low thermal conductivity, the metallic character of the sample and the low Seebeck coefficient result in low values for the thermoelectric Figure of merit, ZT. Band‐structure calculations show that the Fermi level is located slightly below a pseudo‐gap in the electronic density of states. Chemical bonding analysis in position space discloses moderate charge transfer and two‐ as well as three‐atomic directed, heteroatomic bonding involving both the manganese and the germanium atoms.
Thermodynamics of inhomogeneously mass-deformed ABJM model and pressure anisotropy
Authors: Hyun Seungjoon , Ahn Byoungjoon , Kim Kyung Kiu , Kwon O-Kab , Park Sang-A
Published: February 2020

Abstract

In this paper we study the thermodynamics of black branes with a modulated complex scalar in the context of bulk and boundary theories. The modulation induces inhomogeneity to the dual field theory, anisotropic pressure, and brane charge to the bulk geometry. The first law of thermodynamics and the Smarr relation are obtained using the off-shell ADT and the reduced action formalisms. We discuss the prescription for the mass of black branes, which relies on relevant and marginal deformations in the dual field theory. One of the cases is the gravity dual to a ABJM model with a sinusoidal mass function depending on a spatial coordinate. This is the first study of the deformed ABJM model at finite temperature including bulk thermodynamics.
Mass production of IIA and IIB dS vacua
Authors: Cribiori Niccolò , Kallosh Renata , Linde Andrei , Roupec Christoph
Published: February 2020

Abstract

We describe several applications of the mass production procedure proposed in [1] to stabilize multiple moduli in a dS vacuum, in supergravity models inspired by string theory. The construction involves a small downshift of an initial supersymmetric Minkowski minimum to a supersymmetric AdS minimum, and a consequent small uplift to a dS minimum. Our type IIA examples include dS stabilization in a 7-moduli model with [SL(2, ℝ)]7 tree level symmetry, and its simplified version, a 3-moduli STU model. In these models, we use uplifting anti-D6 branes. In type IIB models, we present 2- and 3-moduli examples of stable dS vacua in CY three-folds, with an uplifting anti-D3 brane. These include K3 fibration models, a CICY model and a multi-hole Swiss cheese model. We also address the issue whether this procedure is limited to a very small parameter range or if large deviations from the progenitor Minkowski vacuum are possible.
Preventable Deaths in Multiple Trauma Patients: The Importance of Auditing and Continuous Quality Improvement
Authors: Zhang Gui‐Xi , Chen Ke‐Jin , Zhu Hong‐Tao , Lin Ai‐Ling , Liu Zhong‐Hui , Liu Li‐Chang , Ji Ren , Chan Fion Siu Yin , Fan Joe King Man
Published: February 2020

Background

Management errors during pre‐hospital care, triage process and resuscitation have been widely reported as the major source of preventable and potentially preventable deaths in multiple trauma patients. Common tools for defining whether it is a preventable, potentially preventable or non‐preventable death include the Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS®) clinical guideline, the Injury Severity Score (ISS) and the Trauma and Injury Severity Score (TRISS). Therefore, these surrogated scores were utilized in reviewing the study's trauma services.

Methods

Trauma data were prospectively collected and retrospectively reviewed from January 1, 2018, to December 31, 2018. All cases of trauma death were discussed and audited by the Hospital Trauma Committee on a regular basis. Standardized form was used to document the patient's management flow and details in every case during the meeting, and the final verdict (whether death was preventable or not) was agreed and signed by every member of the team. The reasons for the death of the patients were further classified into severe injuries, inappropriate/delayed examination, inappropriate/delayed treatment, wrong decision, insufficient supervision/guidance or lack of appropriate guidance.

Results

A total of 1913 trauma patients were admitted during the study period, 82 of whom were identified as major trauma (either ISS > 15 or trauma team was activated). Among the 82 patients with major trauma, eight were trauma‐related deaths, one of which was considered a preventable death and the other 7 were considered unpreventable. The decision from the hospital's performance improvement and patient safety program indicates that for every trauma patient, basic life support principles must be followed in the course of primary investigations for bedside trauma series X‐ray (chest and pelvis) and FAST scan in the resuscitation room by a person who meets the criteria for trauma team activation recommended by ATLS®.

Conclusion

Mechanisms to rectify errors in the management of multiple trauma patients are essential for improving the quality of trauma care. Regular auditing in the trauma service is one of the most important parts of performance improvement and patient safety program, and it should be well established by every major trauma center in Mainland China. It can enhance the trauma management processes, decision‐making skills and practical skills, thereby continuously improving quality and reducing mortality of this group of patients.
Research on cognitive and sociocognitive functions in patients with brain tumours: a bibliometric analysis and visualization of the scientific landscape
Authors: Pertz Milena , Popkirov Stoyan , Schlegel Uwe , Thoma Patrizia
Published: February 2020

Background

Many patients with brain tumours exhibit mild to severe (neuro)cognitive impairments at some point during the course of the disease. Social cognition, as an instance of higher-order cognitive functioning, specifically enables initiation and maintenance of appropriate social interactions. For individuals being confronted with the diagnosis of a brain tumour, impairment of social function represents an additional burden, since those patients deeply depend on support and empathy provided by family, friends and caregivers.

Methods

The present study explores the scientific landscape on (socio)cognitive functioning in brain tumour patients by conducting a comprehensive bibliometric analysis using VOSviewer. The Web of Science Core Collection database was examined to identify relevant documents published between 1945 and 2019.

Results

A total of 664 English titles on (socio)cognitive functions in patients with brain tumours was retrieved. Automated textual analysis revealed that the data available so far focus on three major topics in brain tumour patients: cognitive functions in general and in paediatric cases, as well as psychological factors and their influence on quality of life. The focus of research has gradually moved from clinical studies with cognitive functions as one of the outcome measures to investigations of interactions between cognitive functions and psychological constructs such as anxiety, depression or fatigue. Medical, neurological and neuropsychological journals, in particular neuro-oncological journals published most of the relevant articles authored by a relatively small network of well interconnected researchers in the field.

Conclusion

The bibliometric analysis highlights the necessity of more research on social cognition in brain tumour patients.
Chronic migraine long-term regular treatment with onabotulinumtoxinA: a retrospective real-life observational study up to 4 years of therapy
Authors: Santoro Antonio , Copetti Massimiliano , Miscio Anna M. , Leone Maurizio A. , Fontana Andrea
Published: February 2020

Introduction

OnabotulinumtoxinA (BoNT-A) was proved effective and safe in chronic migraine (CM) prevention by the Phase III Research Evaluating Migraine Prophylaxis (PREEMPT) and Phase IV Chronic migraine OnabotulinuMtoxinA Prolonged Efficacy open-Label (COMPEL) trials over 1 and 2 years of treatment, respectively. Real-life studies highlighted BoNT-A sustained benefits up to 3 years of administration. Aim of this retrospective real-life study was observing within a 4-year timeframe the progress of a consecutive series of CM patients treated with BoNT-A and evaluating whether long-term quarterly treatment (up to 16 cycles) confirms the outcomes of previous studies over shorter periods of therapy.

Methods

One hundred nine chronic migraineurs were quarterly treated with BoNT-A according to the PREEMPT paradigm. Headache days and hours, analgesics intake and latency time together with disability were analysed at baseline, thereafter bi-annually up to 48 months. Patient responsiveness (improvement in monthly headache days and hours versus baseline) was computed at each study timepoint.

Results

A significant overall decrease from baseline to the 48-month assessment (p < 0.001) was evidenced for the mean number of monthly headache days and hours, analgesics intake and latency time. Severe disability cases significantly decreased at 6 months (p < 0.001), and a progressive shift towards lower degrees of disability was observed at each subsequent timepoint. A gradual percentage increase of responsive cases was observed as treatment was repeated over time. Transitory neck pain was reported in 6 cases.

Conclusions

This study appears to reconfirm the benefits of long-lasting CM prevention with BoNT-A, thus supporting quarterly treatment with BoNT-A over several year.
Effect of various surfactants on stability and thermophysical properties of nanofluids
Authors: Wang Jin , Li Guolong , Li Tan , Zeng Min , Sundén Bengt
Published: February 2020

The effect of Fe3O4 nanoparticles and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) on the viscosity of a nanofluid is experimentally investigated from 278 to 313 K by changing the nanoparticle volume fraction. These nanoparticles were put into distilled water with various surfactants, i.e., Colace (docusate sodium), trisodium citrate dihydrate (TSC), polyvinyl pyrrolidone, cetyl trimethylammonium bromide, tetramethylammonium hydroxide (TMAH), acacia senegal (GA), sodium dodecyl benzene sulfonate, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), and sodium laurylsulfonate (SLS). Based on the present measurements, new empirical formulas are proposed for Fe3O4–water, CNT–water and Fe3O4–CNT–water nanofluids to provide accurate predictions for the nanofluid viscosity. Based on the viscosity testing, stabilities and thermal conductivities of Fe3O4–TMAH, Fe3O4–Colace, Fe3O4–TSC, CNT–SDS, CNT–GA, Fe3O4–CNT–SLS, and Fe3O4–CNT–TSC nanofluids with a volume concentration of 0.5% are investigated in the present research. Results indicate that better stability, smaller viscosity, and higher thermal conductivity are obtained, when the surfactants TMAH, SDS, and SLS are added into the Fe3O4–water, CNT–water, and the Fe3O4–CNT–water nanofluid, respectively. The CNT–water and Fe3O4–CNT–water nanofluids exhibit a shear-thinning behavior, whereas a linear rheological behavior can be observed by water-based Colace–Fe3O4, TMAH–Fe3O4, and TSC–Fe3O4 nanofluids.
Experimental, numerical and field study investigating a heritage structure collapse after the 2015 Gorkha earthquake
Authors: Kumar Ashutosh , Hughes Paul N. , Sarhosis Vasilis , Toll David , Wilkinson Sean , Coningham Robin , Acharya Kosh Prasad , Weise Kai , Joshi Annie , Davis Christopher , Kunwar Ram Bahadur , Maskey Prem Nath
Published: February 2020

This paper presents an investigation of the collapse of a 325-year-old multi-tiered heritage temple during the 2015 Gorkha earthquake in Kathmandu, Nepal. The research comprises a reconnaissance survey followed by a geotechnical investigation and numerical back-analysis carried out to understand the potential causes of the collapse. The assessment of the structural configuration of the temple indicated seismic vulnerability in the design due to the presence of discontinuous columns over the height of the temple and age-weakened bonding in the masonry walls. The geotechnical investigation revealed the presence of competent soil strata at the location, assisting the survey which indicated no differential or excessive settlement in the foundation. A series of cyclic triaxial tests were conducted on samples recovered during the geotechnical investigation to determine dynamic behaviour of the soil. Further, dynamic analysis of the plinth of the temple under the recorded acceleration–time history indicated a maximum drift percentage of 1.4% and residual relative displacement of 32 mm suggesting the potential reason behind the collapse. The output of this research will support seismic rehabilitation of ancient structures within World Heritage sites across Nepal and effective action plans to safeguard them against future earthquake hazard.
Innovation in Fischer–Tropsch: Developing Fundamental Understanding to Support Commercial Opportunities
Authors: Peacock M. , Paterson J. , Reed L. , Davies S. , Carter S. , Coe A. , Clarkson J.
Published: February 2020

In this contribution we provide details of the BP-Johnson Matthey proprietary Fischer–Tropsch technology and the advanced CANS reactor and catalyst system. The advanced CANS catalyst carrier reactor provides superior heat transfer, reduced pressure drop and higher productivity that lead to major economic savings. Fundamental understanding of catalyst behaviour is also key to obtaining a catalyst that is stable over the lifetime of its use. Synthesis, calcination and reduction steps introduce changes in the catalyst properties prior to syngas introduction. In particular, the presence of water can affect the final catalyst performance. The activity of a good catalyst can be significantly reduced by a sub-optimal activation or start-up. Similarly, stable operation and minimising deactivation are vital for long and stable catalyst life, with years of operation without requiring regeneration. In this report we also share a fundamental study on the catalyst activation across different catalyst supports. This combines advanced in situ techniques with reactor testing to explore the role of the support on catalyst performance. The results illustrate the critical need for a logical and systematic catalyst development programme to explore these effects to optimise the whole FT process. The combination of a joint approach in development plays a key role in a long term success in a process. The fundamental catalyst understanding, optimisation and improvements in combination with the novel CANS reactor design maximise their potential and offer the potential for a world leading technology.
Osteogenesis imperfecta – Pathophysiologie und aktuelle Behandlungsstrategien
Authors: Rehberg Mirko , Etich Julia , Leßmeier Lennart , Sill Helge , Netzer Christian , Semler Oliver
Published: February 2020

Die Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) ist eine angeborene Erkrankung des Knochens und Bindegewebes. Sie geht mit einer erhöhten Frakturneigung, Deformierung der Extremität, aber auch mit extraskelettalen Symptomen einher. Nach einer kurzen Darstellung von Klinik, Diagnostik und aktueller Therapie folgt ein umfassender Überblick über die genetischen und pathophysiologischen Grundlagen der Erkrankung und die daraus abgeleiteten zukünftigen therapeutischen Möglichkeiten.

Ungefähr 80 % der Patienten haben eine Mutation in den Kollagen-Genen COL1A1 und COL1A2. Bei diesen Patienten ist für das Kollektiv keine klare Genotyp-Phänotyp-Korrelation beschrieben. Stoppmutationen führen in der Regel zu einem quantitativen Kollagendefekt, wodurch weniger normales Kollagen gebildet wird und ein eher leichter Phänotyp entsteht. Missense-Mutationen führen zu strukturell verändertem Kollagen (qualitativer Defekt) und zu einem schwereren Phänotyp. Trotzdem gibt es Unterschiede und Vorhersagen über den individuellen Verlauf sind nur sehr eingeschränkt möglich. Neben Veränderungen in den Kollagen-Genen gibt es Mutationen, welche die Kollagenmodifikation und die Kollagensekretion betreffen. Eine eigene Gruppe bilden Gene, welche an der Osteoblastendifferenzierung beteiligt sind. Wie auch bei den weiteren, nicht näher zugeordneten Genen sind dies häufig übergeordnete Gene, deren Funktion in der Osteogenese nicht völlig verstanden ist.

Abgeleitet aus den pathophysiologischen Grundlagen, können vorhandene Medikamente zukünftig womöglich zielgerichtet eingesetzt werden. So ist der „Receptor-Activator-of-Nuclear-Factor-Kappa B-Ligand“ (RANKL)-Antikörper Denosumab spezifischer als Bisphosphonate und wird schon heute bei OI-Typ VI (SERPINF1) verwendet. Weitere Medikamente wie Anti-Sklerostin oder Stammzelltherapien werden unter Berücksichtigung der Pathophysiologie aktuell entwickelt.
Imaging-guided PCI for event suppression in Japanese acute coronary syndrome patients: community-based observational cohort registry
Authors:   Kumamoto Intervention Conference Study (KICS) Investigators, Yamashita Takayoshi , Sakamoto Kenji , Tabata Noriaki , Ishii Masanobu , Sato Ryota , Nagamatsu Suguru , Motozato Kota , Yamanaga Kenshi , Sueta Daisuke , Araki Satoshi , Arima Yuichiro , Yamamoto Eiichiro , Takashio Seiji , Fujisue Koichiro , Fujimoto Kazuteru , Shimomura Hideki , Tsunoda Ryusuke , Maruyama Hideki , Nakamura Natsuki , Sakaino Naritsugu , Nakamura Shinichi , Yamamoto Nobuyasu , Matsumura Toshiyuki , Kajiwara Ichiro , Tayama Shinji , Sakamoto Tomohiro , Nakao Koichi , Oshima Shuichi , Kaikita Koichi , Hokimoto Seiji , Tsujita Kenichi
Published: February 2020

Although there is accumulating evidence for the usefulness of imaging-guided percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), there are few studies for acute coronary syndrome (ACS), and the impact of the frequency of use has not been well addressed. From the Kumamoto Intervention Conference Study; a Japanese registry comprising 17 institutions, consecutive patients undergoing successful PCI from April 2008 through March 2014 were enrolled. Subjects were divided into two groups: imaging-guided PCI and angiography-guided PCI. Clinical outcome was a composite of cardiac death, non-fatal myocardial infarction, and stent thrombosis within 1 year. A total of 6025 ACS patients were enrolled: 3613 and 2412 patients with imaging- and angiography-guided PCI, respectively. Adverse cardiac events were significantly lower in the imaging-guided PCI group (long-rank P < 0.001). Even after propensity-score matching, the event rates still showed significant differences between the two groups (log-rank P = 0.004). To assess the effects of frequency of imaging usage, we divided the 17 institutions into six low-, six moderate-, and five high-frequency groups. The event rates decreased depending on the frequency, seemingly driven by stepwise event suppression in angiography-guided PCI. In Japanese ACS patients, the incidence of adverse clinical events in patients treated with imaging-guided PCI were significantly lower than that in patients with angiography-guided PCI. Better clinical result was found in the institutions using intravascular imaging more frequently. University Hospital Medical Information Network (UMIN)-CTR (http://www.umin.ac.jp/ctr/). Identifier: KICS (UMIN000015397).
Ruin probabilities in the Cramér–Lundberg model with temporarily negative capital
Authors: Aurzada Frank , Buck Micha
Published: February 2020

We study the asymptotics of the ruin probability in the Cramér–Lundberg model with a modified notion of ruin. The modification is as follows. If the portfolio becomes negative, the asset is not immediately declared ruined but may survive due to certain mechanisms. Under a rather general assumption on the mechanism—satisfied by most such modified models from the literature—we study the relation of the asymptotics of the modified ruin probability to the classical ruin probability. This is done under the Cramér condition as well as for subexponential integrated claim sizes.
Twenty Years of the Food Cravings Questionnaires: a Comprehensive Review
Authors: Meule Adrian
Published: February 2020

Purpose of Review

The Food Cravings Questionnaires (FCQs; Cepeda-Benito, Gleaves, Williams, & Erath, 2000) are among the most widely used instruments for measuring food cravings. In addition to the Food Cravings Questionnaire–Trait (FCQ–T) and the Food Cravings Questionnaire–State (FCQ–S), several modified versions have been developed as well. For their 20th anniversary, this article provides a comprehensive description of the FCQs and reviews studies on their psychometric properties and correlates.

Recent Findings

The FCQs and their modified versions have excellent internal reliability. Expectedly, the FCQ–T (and its derivatives) has higher retest-reliability than the FCQ–S as the FCQ–S is sensitive to situational changes such as food deprivation and food intake. However, while the FCQ–T is largely unaffected by such momentary states, it is also sensitive to change during weight-loss treatments and other interventions. Factor structure of the FCQ–T and FCQ–S has only partially been replicated. Construct validity of the FCQs is supported by experimental and longitudinal studies that measured food craving and food consumption in the laboratory and with ecological momentary assessment.

Numerous studies support reliability and validity of the FCQs and their modified versions, yet findings about their factor structures are inconsistent. Thus, using total scores or the short versions of the FCQs may be preferable.
A cascade network for the classification of rice grain based on single rice kernel
Authors: Robert Singh Ksh , Chaudhury Saurabh
Published: February 2020

This paper describes the classification of four different varieties of rice grain based on four sets of features, namely morphology, colour, texture and wavelet. The classification is carried out on single rice kernel using image pre-processing steps followed by a cascade network classifier. The performance of the classifiers based on the above feature sets is also compared. It is found that morphological feature is more suitable for the classification of rice kernels, as compared to other features. The number of input features is reduced by a feature selection process using statistical analysis system (SAS) software. The classification accuracy based on selected features is compared with that of original features using different classifiers. It is found that the selected features are able to provide classification accuracy very close to the original features. The performance of the proposed cascade classifier is also tested against standard datasets from the University of California, Irvine (UCI), and the results are compared with other classifiers. The results show that the proposed classifier provides better classification accuracy as compared to other classifiers.
Non-contact electrochemical evaluation of biofilms
Authors: Turick Charles E. , Colon-Mercado Hector , Bagwell Christopher E. , Greenway Scott D. , Amoroso Jake W.
Published: February 2020

Here, we demonstrate a non-contact technique for electrochemical evaluation of biofilms on surfaces in relation to corrosion. Electrochemical impedance spectrometry was employed, incorporating flat patterned electrodes positioned over the surfaces of aluminum and glass with and without biofilms. Signal communication from the working electrode to the counter electrode followed electric field lines passing tangentially through the biofilms. Electrochemical impedance parameters that were evaluated included complex impedance, phase angle, imaginary (out of phase) conductivity and Cole–Cole plots with a corresponding equivalent circuit. Changes in the impedance properties due to the presence of biofilms were monitored and correlated through microbiological, chemical and electrochemical assays. Impedance parameters associated with microbial activity correlated with biofilms on aluminum and glass surfaces. This technical approach provides impedance information about the biofilm without the signal traveling through the underlying conductive media or disrupting the biofilm. In this way, biological contributions to surface fouling can be evaluated with minimal contribution from the inorganic surface under the biofilm. In addition, this technique can be used to monitor biofilms on electrochemically inert surfaces as well as electrically conductive surfaces.

Graphic abstract
Relational aggression and victimization during adolescence: A meta‐analytic review of unique associations with popularity, peer acceptance, rejection, and friendship characteristics
Authors: Casper Deborah M. , Card Noel A. , Barlow Caroline
Published: February 2020

Introduction

This meta‐analysis includes 46 studies including 35,468 adolescents (M age = 12.4 years) with a mean sample ages between 10 and 17 years. Just over half of the studies include samples drawn from the U.S. with the remaining samples representing 11 different countries.

Method

We examined the magnitude of overlap between relational aggression and relational victimization and, using infrequently used semipartial correlations as effect sizes, we examined unique associations of each with peer acceptance, peer rejection, popularity, and positive friendship characteristics.

Results & conclusions

Results indicate a strong intercorrelation between relational aggression and victimization ( = .48). We found no mean level gender difference in experiences of relational aggression or relational victimization. Relational aggression is positively associated with popularity; victimization is negatively associated with peer acceptance and friendship characteristics. Both, aggression and victimization are positively associated with rejection. We explored method of assessment as a potential source of variability of effect sizes as well as potential publication bias. Future research and implications for prevention and intervention are discussed.
The Effect of Transendocardial Stem Cell Injection on Erectile Function in Men with Cardiomyopathy: Results From the TRIDENT, POSEIDON, and TAC-HFT Trials
Authors: Ory Jesse , Saltzman Russell G. , Blachman-Braun Ruben , Dadoun Simon , DiFede Darcy L. , Premer Courtney , Hurwitz Barry , Hare Joshua M. , Ramasamy Ranjith
Published: February 2020

Background

Despite limited human data, there is a growing interest in the use of stem cell therapy (SCT) for erectile dysfunction (ED).

Aim

To determine the effect of transendocardial stem cell injection on erectile function on men with cardiomyopathy and ED.

Methods

We used International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) scores collected from men enrolled in 3 separate randomized controlled trials: Comparison of Allogeneic vs Autologous Bone Marrow–Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Delivered by Transendocardial Injection in Patients With Ischemic Cardiomyopathy (POSEIDON), Transendocardial Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Mononuclear Bone Marrow Cells for Ischemic Cardiomyopathy (TAC-HFT), and Dose Comparison Study of Allogeneic Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Patients With Ischemic Cardiomyopathy (TRIDENT). These trials recruited patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy and ejection fraction less than 50%. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were identical in all 3 trials. The primary intervention in these trials included transendocardial stem cell injection of stem cells or placebo via cardiac catheterization. The follow-up period was 1 year. IIEF data were collected at baseline and at multiple time points in each trial.

Outcomes

We investigated erectile function over time based on cell dose, cell source (autologous vs allogenic), cell type (mesenchymal stem cells vs bone marrow mononuclear cells), and comparing men who received SCT with those who received placebo.

Results

A total of 36 men were identified with complete IIEF data. 8 men received placebo injection, and 28 received SCT. The median age was 66.5 years. Comorbidities were similar among all men. Analysis was performed on men with ED, defined by an IIEF-EF score of 24 or less. In the placebo and all-comer SCT group, the median IIEF-EF score was 5 [1–8] and 5 [1–15] at baseline and was 3.5 [3–5.8] and 7 [1–18] at 12 months (P > .05). When analyzed by cell dose, the IIEF-EF score in men who received 200 million cells increased significantly over 12 months (14 [4–23] to 20 [15–24.5], P = .014.) Similarly, an autologous cell source resulted in a similar increase from baseline to 12 months (14 [3.8–23.3] to 20 [12–22], P = .030).

Clinical Implications

Erectile function may improve after systemic delivery of SCT in men with ischemic cardiomyopathy and at least mild ED.

Strengths & Limitations

This post hoc analysis is the first to investigate the effect of SCT on erectile function using randomized, placebo-controlled data. Weaknesses include that ED was not a primary end point, and men were not originally recruited based on erectile function.

Conclusion

Future trials on systemic delivery of SCT for ED should focus on high cell dose and autologous cell source, as these seem to provide the best response in men with at least mild ED.