bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accuracy of Different Indexes of Body Composition and Adiposity in Identifying Metabolic Syndrome in Adult Subjects with Prader-Willi Syndrome
Authors: Radetti Giorgio , Fanolla Antonio , Lupi Fiorenzo , Sartorio Alessandro , Grugni Graziano
Published: June 2020

(1) Objective: To compare the accuracy of different indexes of adiposity and/or body composition in identifying metabolic syndrome (MetS) in adult patients suffering from Prader‒Willi syndrome (PWS). (2) Study Design: One hundred and twenty PWS patients (69 females and 51 males), aged 29.1 ± 9.4 years, body mass index (BMI) 36.7 ± 9.9, were evaluated. The following indexes were assessed in each subject: body mass index (BMI), fat-free mass index (FFMI), fat mass index (FMI), tri-ponderal mass index (TMI), waist-to-height ratio (WtHR) and the body mass fat index (BMFI), which adjusts the BMI for the percentage of body fat and waist circumference. Thereafter, a threshold value adjusted for age and sex, which could identify MetS, was calculated for each index. (3) Results: A significant correlation was found among all indexes (p < 0.0001 for all). However, when the area under the curve (AUC) was compared, BMFI performed better than FMI (p < 0.05) and BMI better than TMI (p < 0.05), but only in females. (4) Conclusions: Besides small differences, all the indexes taken into consideration seem to have the same ability to identify MetS in adults with PWS. Consequently, the most easily calculated index, i.e., BMI, should be considered as the best choice. The use of thresholds appropriate for sex and age can further improve its accuracy.
Allogeneic Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cell Transplantation in Tooth Extractions Sites Ameliorates the Incidence of Osteonecrotic Jaw-Like Lesions in Zoledronic Acid-Treated Rats
Authors: Rodríguez-Lozano Francisco Javier , Oñate-Sánchez Ricardo , Gonzálvez-García Mar , Vallés-Bergadá Marta , Martínez Carlos M. , Revilla-Nuin Beatriz , Guerrero-Gironés Julia , Moraleda Jose M. , García-Bernal David
Published: June 2020

Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) is defined as the exposed necrotic bone involving the maxillofacial structures in bisphosphonate treated patients, and the pathophysiology of this disease remains unclear. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of the allogeneic transplantation of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) in a model of Wistar mice with induced MRONJ disease. BM-MSCs from five male Wistar rats were characterized and cultured on β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) granules. Thirty female Wistar rats were injected intraperitoneally with zoledronic acid and afterwards upper jaw molars were extracted. The animals were randomized to receive: Group 1: 1 × 106 BM-MSCs/β-TCP construct in the alveolar socket; and Group 2: Saline solution/β-TCP construct. A clinical and histological analysis was performed. Nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was assessed to verify the presence of transplanted male rat cells in the female recipient jaws. Clinical and histological findings evidenced that none of the animals in Group 1 exhibited uncovered sockets or bone exposure associated to MRONJ, whereas we detected 33% of MRONJ cases in Group 2. In addition, male rat cells were detected in the maxillae site four weeks after transplantation in the BM-MSCs-group. Allogeneic BM-MSCs in extractions sites ameliorates MRONJ incidence in zoledronic acid-treated rats compared to non-MSC treatments.
Conversion from Standard-Release Tacrolimus to MeltDose® Tacrolimus (LCPT) Improves Renal Function after Liver Transplantation
Authors: von Einsiedel Johannes , Thölking Gerold , Wilms Christian , Vorona Elena , Bokemeyer Arne , Schmidt Hartmut H. , Kabar Iyad , Hüsing-Kabar Anna
Published: June 2020

Renal impairment is a typical side effect of tacrolimus (Tac) treatment in liver transplant (LT) recipients. One strategy to avoid renal dysfunction is to increase the concentration/dose (C/D) ratio by improving drug bioavailability. LT recipients converted from standard-release Tac to MeltDose® Tac (LCPT), a novel technological formulation, were able to reduce the required Tac dose due to higher bioavailability. Hence, we hypothesize that such a conversion increases the C/D ratio, resulting in a preservation of renal function. In the intervention group, patients were switched from standard-release Tac to LCPT. Clinical data were collected for 12 months after conversion. Patients maintained on standard-release Tac were enrolled as a control group. Twelve months after conversion to LCPT, median C/D ratio had increased significantly by 50% (p < 0.001), with the first significant increase seen 3 months after conversion (p = 0.008). In contrast, C/D ratio in the control group was unchanged after 12 months (1.75 vs. 1.76; p = 0.847). Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) had already significantly deteriorated in the control group at 9 months (65.6 vs. 70.6 mL/min/1.73 m2 at study onset; p = 0.006). Notably, patients converted to LCPT already had significant recovery of mean eGFR 6 months after conversion (67.5 vs. 65.3 mL/min/1.73 m2 at study onset; p = 0.029). In summary, conversion of LT recipients to LCPT increased C/D ratio associated with renal function improvement.
Multidimensional Evaluation of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) Treatment for Sleep Apnea in Different Clusters of Couples
Authors: Mendelson Monique , Gentina Thibaut , Gentina Elodie , Tamisier Renaud , Pépin Jean-Louis , Bailly Sébastien
Published: June 2020

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is the most efficient treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Little is known about the impact of spousal relationship profiles on CPAP adherence. We aimed to identify clusters of couples of OSA patients, and their association with CPAP adherence 120 days after CPAP initiation. In a multicenter prospective study, OSA patients recently prescribed CPAP were enrolled with their spouses. Data about spousal relationships were collected at inclusion and at day 120. Latent class analysis was performed to determine homogeneous groups of spousal relationships. The 290 participants were predominantly males (77%), median age was 53 years and interquartile range (IQR) 46–62, median body mass index (BMI) was 32 kg/m2 (IQR: 28.6–35.9) and median apnea–hypopnea index: 43 events per hour (IQR: 33–58). Three couple clusters were identified: (1) older retired couples, (2) young working couples, and (3) mature active couples. Patients in the older retired couples cluster presented the highest CPAP adherence (p < 0.01) independently of initial complaints, OSA severity, and degree of improvement under CPAP. In a large cohort of OSA patients in whom clusters of couples were determined, there was a significant difference in CPAP adherence at day-120 after CPAP initiation.
Cost-Effectiveness of the Manchester Approach to Identifying Lynch Syndrome in Women with Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Snowsill Tristan M. , Ryan Neil A. J. , Crosbie Emma J.
Published: June 2020

Lynch syndrome (LS) is a hereditary cancer syndrome responsible for 3% of all endometrial cancer and 5% in those aged under 70 years. It is unclear whether universal testing for LS in endometrial cancer patients would be cost-effective. The Manchester approach to identifying LS in endometrial cancer patients uses immunohistochemistry (IHC) to detect mismatch repair (MMR) deficiency, incorporates testing for MLH1 promoter hypermethylation, and incorporates genetic testing for pathogenic MMR variants. We aimed to assess the cost-effectiveness of the Manchester approach on the basis of primary research data from clinical practice in Manchester. The Proportion of Endometrial Tumours Associated with Lynch Syndrome (PETALS) study informed estimates of diagnostic performances for a number of different strategies. A recent microcosting study was adapted and was used to estimate diagnostic costs. A Markov model was used to predict long-term costs and health outcomes (measured in quality-adjusted life years, QALYs) for individuals and their relatives. Bootstrapping and probabilistic sensitivity analysis were used to estimate the uncertainty in cost-effectiveness. The Manchester approach dominated other reflex testing strategies when considering diagnostic costs and Lynch syndrome cases identified. When considering long-term costs and QALYs the Manchester approach was the optimal strategy, costing £5459 per QALY gained (compared to thresholds of £20,000 to £30,000 per QALY commonly used in the National Health Service (NHS)). Cost-effectiveness is not an argument for restricting testing to younger patients or those with a strong family history. Universal testing for Lynch syndrome in endometrial cancer patients is expected to be cost-effective in the U.K. (NHS), and the Manchester approach is expected to be the optimal testing strategy.
Long-Term Prognosis of Patients with Myocardial Infarction Type 1 and Type 2 with and without Involvement of Coronary Vasospasm
Authors: Sato Ryota , Sakamoto Kenji , Kaikita Koichi , Tsujita Kenichi , Nakao Koichi , Ozaki Yukio , Kimura Kazuo , Ako Junya , Noguchi Teruo , Yasuda Satoshi , Suwa Satoru , Fujimoto Kazuteru , Nakama Yasuharu , Morita Takashi , Shimizu Wataru , Saito Yoshihiko , Hirohata Atsushi , Morita Yasuhiro , Inoue Teruo , Okamura Atsunori , Mano Toshiaki , Hirata Kazuhito , Tanabe Kengo , Shibata Yoshisato , Owa Mafumi , Funayama Hiroshi , Kokubu Nobuaki , Kozuma Ken , Uemura Shirou , Toubaru Tetsuya , Saku Keijirou , Ohshima Shigeru , Nishimura Kunihiro , Miyamoto Yoshihiro , Ogawa Hisao , Ishihara Masaharu
Published: June 2020

While prognoses in relation to myocardial infarction (MI) type have been elucidated in past reports, the results were not consistent, perhaps due to occurrence of Type 2 MI with CVS and its mortality. The Japanese registry of acute Myocardial Infarction diagnosed by Universal Definition (J-MINUET) is a prospective multicenter registry in Japan. In contrast to thromboembolic event-related Type 1 myocardial infarction (MI), clinical features of Type 2 MI, including coronary vasospasm (CVS), are varied due to the heterogeneous nature of its development. To elucidate the MI type-related all-cause mortality, 2989 consecutive patients with AMI were stratified as Type 1 MI, Type 2 MI with CVS, and Type 2 MI with non-CVS. Most patients (n = 2834; 94.8%) were classified as Type 1 MI and 155 patients (5.2%) were classified as Type 2 MI. Of the Type 2 MI patients, 87 (56% of Type 2 MI) were diagnosed as MI with CVS. Although the 3-year mortality was comparable between Type 1 and Type 2 MI patients, significant differences were observed between Type 2 MI with CVS and with non-CVS (3.4% and 22.1%, p < 0.001). Among Japanese patients with AMI, mortality rates between Type 1 MI and Type 2 MI are comparable, but further stratification of Type 2 MI (with or without CVS) may be useful in predicting the prognosis of patients with Type 2 MI.
Clinicopathological Significance of RUNX1 in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Kim Yujin , Lee Bo Bin , Kim Dongho , Um Sangwon , Cho Eun Yoon , Han Joungho , Shim Young Mog , Kim Duk-Hwan
Published: June 2020

This study aimed to understand the clinicopathological significance of runt-related transcription factor 1 (RUNX1) in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The methylation and mRNA levels of RUNX1 in NSCLC were determined using the Infinium HumanMethylation450 BeadChip and the HumanHT-12 expression BeadChip. RUNX1 protein levels were analyzed using immunohistochemistry of formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues from 409 NSCLC patients. Three CpGs (cg04228935, cg11498607, and cg05000748) in the CpG island of RUNX1 showed significantly different methylation levels (Bonferroni corrected p < 0.05) between tumor and matched normal tissues obtained from 42 NSCLC patients. Methylation levels of the CpGs in the tumor tissues were inversely related to mRNA levels of RUNX1. A logistic regression model based on cg04228935 showed the best performance in predicting NSCLCs in a test dataset (N = 28) with the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC) of 0.96 (95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.81–0.99). The expression of RUNX1 was reduced in 125 (31%) of 409 patients. Adenocarcinoma patients with reduced RUNX1 expression showed 1.97-fold (95% confidence interval = 1.16–3.44, p = 0.01) higher hazard ratio for death than those without. In conclusion, the present study suggests that abnormal methylation of RUNX1 may be a valuable biomarker for detection of NSCLC regardless of race. And, reduced RUNX1 expression may be a prognostic indicator of poor overall survival in lung adenocarcinoma.
Recent Advances on the Design Automation for Performance-Optimized Fiber Reinforced Polymer Composite Components
Authors: Boon Yi Di , Joshi Sunil Chandrakant , Bhudolia Somen Kumar , Gohel Goram
Published: June 2020

Advanced manufacturing techniques, such as automated fiber placement and additive manufacturing enables the fabrication of fiber-reinforced polymer composite components with customized material and structural configurations. In order to take advantage of this customizability, the design process for fiber-reinforced polymer composite components needs to be improved. Machine learning methods have been identified as potential techniques capable of handling the complexity of the design problem. In this review, the applications of machine learning methods in various aspects of structural component design are discussed. They include studies on microstructure-based material design, applications of machine learning models in stress analysis, and topology optimization of fiber-reinforced polymer composites. A design automation framework for performance-optimized fiber-reinforced polymer composite components is also proposed. The proposed framework aims to provide a comprehensive and efficient approach for the design and optimization of fiber-reinforced polymer composite components. The challenges in building the models required for the proposed framework are also discussed briefly.
Four Point Flexural Response of Acrylonitrile–Butadiene–Styrene
Authors: Dhaliwal Gurpinder S. , Dundar Mehmet Akif
Published: June 2020

Acrylonitrile–Butadiene–Styrene (ABS) is a very significant and widely used amorphous thermoplastic that possesses high impact resistance, toughness, and heat resistance. Bending collapse is a predominant failure of polymeric structural members in the vehicle environment under angled and unsymmetrical collisions. Therefore, it becomes critical to investigate the flexural behavior of the ABS beam and find its energy absorption capabilities under a transverse loading scenario. Four-point bending tests were carried out at different strain rates and at two different span lengths to investigate the deformation behavior of ABS. This paper examines the influence of strain rate, friction coefficient, Generalized Incremental Stress-State MOdel (GISSMO) and Damage Initiation and Evolution (DIEM) damage models, yield surfaces, and the span length on the four-point flexural behavior of the ABS polymeric material. A Semi-Analytical material model (SAMP_1) in LSDYNA was utilized to numerically evaluate the behavior of ABS under four-point bending. From extensive investigative explorations, it was found that the flexural behavior of ABS is dependent upon the span length, loading strain rate, and friction coefficient between the specimen and the supports. The modeling of damage was successfully exemplified by using the inherent damage law of the SAMP-1 material model, GISSMO, and DIEM damage formulations.
Nonisothermal Crystallization Kinetics of Polylactic Acid under the Influence of Polyolefin Elastomers
Authors: Khosravi Azadeh , Fereidoon Abdolhossein , Khorasani Mohammad Mehdi , Berthe Vincent , Vahabi Henri , Paran Seyed Mohammad Reza , Naderi Ghasem , Saeb Mohammad Reza
Published: June 2020

Crystallization kinetics of various blends of poly(lactic acid) (PLA)/polyolefin elastomer (POE) was studied through nonisothermal experimental investigations and theoretical approaches. The PLA/POE blends were prepared in a melt mixing process by using two types of POEs and compatibilizers. The rubber phases used were adopted on the basis of polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) type olefin elastomers. The effects of two kinds of compatibilizers containing ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA) and ethylene acrylic ester-glycidyl methacrylate terpolymer (EGMA) on the morphology and various parameters of crystallization of PLA were investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) measurements, respectively. The morphology investigations on PLA blends containing PP based olefin elastomers showed that the introduction of EGMA compatibilizer into the matrix led to a more than 100% reduction in the size of the rubber droplets. The experimental measurements of crystallization behavior of various PLA/POE blends showed that the POEs and compatibilizers could cause a fall in the initial crystallization temperature more than 13 °C. The theoretical approaches used for studying the kinetics of crystallization of PLA in the presence of various POEs and compatibilizers indicated a decrease in the crystallinity of PLA and a 64% reduction in the activation energy compared to the neat PLA. The results suggest that the largest variation in the crystallization kinetic parameters of PLA was resulted from the PP based olefin elastomer and EGMA compatibilizer.
What Role Does the Housing Market Play for the Macroeconomic Transmission Mechanism?
Authors: Wilhelmsson Mats
Published: June 2020

The main objective is to answer the question: What role does the housing market play for the transmission mechanism and (in particular) is the impact constant over time? The research question also includes analyzing the importance of the housing market for the transmission mechanism. We estimate an eight-variable structural vector autoregression (SVAR) model of the Swedish economy over the period 1993 and 2018 using quarterly data, covering both the internet bubble in 2000 and the financial crises in 2008. The results indicate that interest rates have both a direct effect on housing prices and an indirect impact through the bank lending channel. Over time, the traditional interest rate channel importance has been stable. On the other hand, the role of the bank lending channel has increased over time. Household debt has increased substantially in Sweden and elsewhere. That means that the interest rate sensitivity in society has increased. Based on the results, it is possible to evaluate and forecast potential house price effects (both direct and indirect) when the interest rate changes.
Peri-Urban Organic Agriculture and Short Food Supply Chains as Drivers for Strengthening City/Region Food Systems—Two Case Studies in Andalucía, Spain
Authors: Yacamán Ochoa Carolina , Matarán Ruiz Alberto , Mata Olmo Rafael , Macías Figueroa Álvaro , Torres Rodríguez Adolfo
Published: June 2020

Discussions on food security in the Global North have raised questions about the capacity of peri-urban organic agriculture to provide sufficient healthy food for the urban market. Dealing with food security requires more attention to how to protect peri-urban organic farming systems from urban pressures while strengthening the sustainability of local food systems. Given that short food supply chains (SFSCs) have been proven to be effective at reconnecting people with food production, this study focuses on identifying the barriers that hinder their development and the opportunities derived from the comparative advantage provided by their urban proximity. This study is based on documentary and empirical research addressing food supply chain characteristics in the organic sector. This study is focused on Mediterranean peri-urban agriculture, where, historically, there have been close relationships between the city and the countryside. These relationships are based on the fact that many cities are traditionally located next to areas of high agricultural activity, where a wide variety of vegetables is produced almost continuously due to the relatively mild winter climate. This study deals with two medium-sized metropolitan areas in Andalucía in the south of the Iberian Peninsula—the coastal city of Málaga, which is of a tourist-residential nature, and the inland urban agglomeration of Granada. Our research shows, when compared with other studies, that the local organic food sector seems to have great potential to find innovative solutions based on a collective approach, local embeddedness, and collective knowledge and by prioritizing horizontal and sustainable processes at the local/regional scale.
Recovery of Diamond and Cobalt Powder from Polycrystalline Drawing Die Blanks via Ultrasound-Assisted Leaching Process—Part 1: Process Design and Efficiencies
Authors: Kießling Ferdinand , Stopic Srecko , Gürmen Sebahattin , Friedrich Bernd
Published: June 2020

The treatment of industrial polycrystalline diamond (PCD) blanks in aqua regia at atmospheric pressure between 333 K and 353 K was performed via the ultrasound-assisted leaching process to investigate whether the influence of ultrasound is beneficial. Cobalt content in the solution and in the blanks was monitored as well as the effects of leaching temperature, solid-to-liquid ratio, and PCD blank size. The use of intermittent and permanent ultrasound helped reduce the leaching time and thus energy consumption by up to 50%. In all trials with ultrasound, higher temperature only has a slight effect. Solid-to-liquid ratio does not have a positive or negative impact. A new process design was tested using an innovative experimental setup for ultrasound-assisted leaching aiming at maximum cobalt and diamond recovery from PCD and final reuse of fine PCD for cutting and polishing other hard materials in different important industrial applications.
The Use of Capsule Endoscopy to Determine Tablet Disintegration In Vivo
Authors: Blaabjerg Lasse I. , Fan Li , Chen Xiaoli , Sassene Philip J.
Published: June 2020

The preferred delivery route for drugs targeted for systemic effect is by oral administration. Following oral administration, a solid dosage form must disintegrate and the drug dissolve, thereafter permeating the intestinal mucosa. Several different in vitro methods are used to investigate these processes, i.e., disintegration tests, dissolution tests, and permeability models. However, the actual behavior of oral dosage forms in the environment of the gastro-intestinal tract is not very well elucidated using these conventional methods. In this study, the use of capsule endoscopy to determine tablet disintegration in vivo was assessed. Panadol and Panadol Rapid (acetaminophen/paracetamol) were used as the test material. The in vivo tablet disintegration behavior in beagle dogs was assessed by the use of capsule endoscopy. The in vitro tablet disintegration behavior was assessed using the European Pharmacopeia (Ph. Eur.) disintegration test. The study showed that the in vivo disintegration times of Panadol and Panadol Rapid were 24.7 and 16.5 min, respectively, when determined by capsule endoscopy, which corresponded to the pharmacokinetic data. By contrast, the in vitro disintegration times of the same formulations were 5.5 and 4.0 min, respectively, when determined by the Ph. Eur. disintegration test. In conclusion, capsule endoscopy can be used to determine the in vivo tablet disintegration behavior. By contrast, the in vitro methods appear to not be predictive of the disintegration behavior in vivo but may be used to rank the order the formulations with respect to disintegration time.
High-Resolution Mapping of the Novel Early Leaf Senescence Gene Els2 in Common Wheat
Authors: Wang Na , Xie Yanzhou , Li Yingzhuang , Wu Shengnan , Li Shuxian , Guo Yu , Wang Chengshe
Published: June 2020

Early leaf senescence negatively impacts the grain yield in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Induced mutants provide an important resource for mapping and cloning of genes for early leaf senescence. In our previous study, Els2, a single incomplete dominance gene, that caused early leaf senescence phenotype in the wheat mutant LF2099, had been mapped on the long arm of chromosome 2B. The objective of this study was to develop molecular markers tightly linked to the Els2 gene and construct a high-resolution map surrounding the Els2 gene. Three tightly linked single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers were obtained from the Illumina Wheat 90K iSelect SNP genotyping array and converted to Kompetitive allele-specific polymerase chain reaction (KASP) markers. To saturate the Els2 region, the Axiom® Wheat 660K SNP array was used to screen bulked extreme phenotype DNA pools, and 9 KASP markers were developed. For fine mapping of the Els2 gene, these KASP markers and previously identified polymorphic markers were analyzed in a large F2 population of the LF2099 × Chinese Spring cross. The Els2 gene was located in a 0.24-cM genetic region flanked by the KASP markers AX-111643885 and AX-111128667, which corresponded to a physical interval of 1.61 Mb in the Chinese Spring chromosome 2BL containing 27 predicted genes with high confidence. The study laid a foundation for a map-based clone of the Els2 gene controlling the mutation phenotype and revealing the molecular regulatory mechanism of wheat leaf senescence.
Real-Time Optimization of Pulp Mill Operations with Wood Moisture Content Variation
Authors: Nuengwang Wipawadee , Srinophakun Thongchai R. , Realff Matthew J.
Published: June 2020

In tropical countries, such as Thailand, the variation of tree moisture content can be significant based on seasonal variations in rainfall. Pulp mill operation optimization accounting for wood moisture variation was used to determine optimal operation conditions and minimize production cost. The optimization models were built using empirical modeling techniques with simulated data from the IDEAS software package. Three case studies were performed. First, a base case of nominal annual operation at a fixed production rate was used to calculate production cost that varies with wood moisture content. The second case is annual optimization where production was allowed to vary monthly over an annual cycle to minimize production cost. For the third case, real-time optimization (RTO) was used to determine optimal production rate with the wood moisture content varying every 3 days. The rolling horizon approach was used to schedule production to keep inventory levels within bounds and with a penalty applied to deviations from the annual expected values of inventory. The advantage of RTO in accounting for moisture content variation was confirmed by annual production costs results simulated for 20 years. These results statistically demonstrated that the overall cost was reduced compared to the second case of monthly production targets.
Heavy Metal Retention by Different Forest Species Used for Restoration of Post-Mining Landscapes, N. Greece
Authors: Samara Theano , Spanos Ioannis , Platis Panagiotis , Papachristou Thomas G.
Published: June 2020

The main objective of this research was to study heavy metal absorption by the leaves of main forest species which were planted for that purpose at post-lignite mining landscapes in Northern Greece (Ptolemais, Prefecture of Kozani), as well as in a neighboring region (Kato Grammatiko), 30 km far from the mining area. Four species were studied; two conifers (Pinus nigra Arn., Cupressus arizonica Greene) and two broad-leaved (Robinia pseudoacacia L., Populus nigra L.). The four species varied in their leaf morphology (needles, scale-like leaves, blade, compound or simple, with rough or smooth surfaces). Eighty (80) leaf samples were collected, (10 from each tree species at either site). The heavy metal concentrations measured were iron (Fe), copper (Cu), chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), cadmium (Cd), manganese (Mn), zinc (Zn) and cobalt (Co). Statistically significant differences (p = 0.01) were found between the lignite deposit and control areas and among the studied species. Higher concentrations were measured for the studied species at the lignite deposit. Moreover, no species demonstrated maximum absorption for all metals. The metal absorption pattern by coniferous trees’ leaves at the mining landscape was similar, with highest concentrations observed for iron and lowest for cobalt [iron (Fe) > zinc (Zn) > manganese (Mn) > copper (Cu) > chromium (Cr) > nickel (Ni) > cobalt (Co)]. Both broadleaved species absorbed highest concentrations of iron, but differed in the amount of the remaining metals [black locust: iron (Fe) > manganese (Mn) > zinc (Zn) > copper (Cu) > nickel (Ni) > chromium (Cr); black poplar: iron (Fe) > zinc (Zn) > manganese (Mn) > copper (Cu) > nickel (Ni) > chromium (Cr) > cobalt (Co)]. Cadmium was detected only in black poplar at both sites. In general, black pine was found to absorb the highest concentration of iron (Fe), and black poplar zinc (Zn). We discuss the importance of carefully selecting the appropriate mixture of tree species in order to achieve maximum habitat restoration effect at heavy metal polluted sites.
Prioritisation of treatment goals among older patients with non-curable cancer: the OPTion randomised controlled trial in Dutch primary care
Authors: Stegmann Mariken E , Brandenbarg Daan , Reyners An KL , van Geffen Wouter H , Hiltermann T Jeroen N , Berendsen Annette J
Published: June 2020

Background

Older patients with cancer often find it difficult to take part in shared decision making.

Aim

To assess the utility of the Outcome Prioritisation Tool (OPT), designed to aid discussion with a patient in regards to their treatment goals, to empower patients with cancer through structured conversations about generic treatment goals with GPs.

Design and setting

A randomised controlled trial of 114 Dutch participants recruited between November 2015 and January 2019, aged ≥60 years with non-curable cancer who had to make a treatment decision with an oncologist. The intervention group used the OPT while the control group received care as usual.

Method

The primary outcome was patient empowerment using the score on the decision self-efficacy (DSE) scale. Secondary outcomes were symptoms measures of fatigue, anxiety, and depression. The experiences of participants were also explored.

Results

No effect was found on patient empowerment between the OPT group (n= 48; DSE 86.8; standard deviation [SD] = 18.2) and the control group (n= 58; DSE 84.2; SD = 17.6;P= 0.47). In the OPT group, although statistically non-significant, fewer patients had low empowerment (18.8%,n= 9 versus 24.1%,n= 14; P = 0.50), but they did have statistically significant lower mean anxiety scores (6.0, SD = 4.6 versus 7.6, SD = 4.4; P<0.05) and less mild fatigue (58.8%,n= 30 versus 77.2%,n= 44;P= 0.05). Overall, 44.8% (n= 13) of patients indicated that the OPT-facilitated conversation helped them make a treatment decision, and 31.1% (n= 14) of the GPs reported that they gained new insights from the conversation.

Conclusion

An OPT-facilitated conversation about generic treatment goals between patients and their GPs is associated with less anxiety and fatigue, but did not show statistically significant improvements in patient empowerment. Adding the OPT to routine care might ensure more patient-tailored care.
TRANSITION FROM INFORMAL TO SUSTAINABLE SETTLEMENT
Authors: Tariku Merdassa Feven
Published: June 2020

The article is devoted to the features of informal settlement in Addis Ababa and the role of governmental and non-governmental organizations and public participation in the sustainable development of informal settlements. The purpose of the article is to identify the main types and characteristics of informal settlements and to reveal the factors that hinder the success of programs for updating informal settlements in the city. The research methods were the analysis and generalization of domestic and foreign literature on this research problem. The main conclusion of this study is that the principles of folk architecture are integral components of solutions for the sustainable development of informal settlements.
Une classe d'équations différentielles du troisième ordre dont les solutions sont à points critiques isolés fixes
Authors: Carton-Lebrun Christiane
Published: June 2020

On démontre que, pour être stable, toute équation différentielle du type (E) défini ci-dessous, doit être réductible à l'une des 30 formes canoniques écrites dans le tableau D. On prouve qu'à l'exception de deux d'entre elles, ces équations se ramènent à des équations linéaires et à des équations d'ordre inférieur dont les solutions sont connues.
Sur une équation linéaire fonctionnelle—différentielle—aux différences (deuxième note)
Authors: Mangeron Démètre J. , Oguztöreli Mehmet N.
Published: June 2020

Les auteurs étudient dans cette Note l'équation fonctionnelle-différentielle-aux différences F(m)(x + y ; α) = F(n)(x ; α — 1) + F(n)(y ; α — 1) + Q(α), où Q (α) est une fonction sommable donnée de α et F(n)(x ; α) = δnF(x ; α)/δxn, m, n étant un nombre entier positif.
Sur un problème de Pontryagin
Authors: Vergison E.
Published: June 2020

Soit à minimiser une fonctionnelle du type

[formula] définie sur un ensemble de couples trajectoire-contrôle [formula] fixés, chaque couple satisfaisant à la relation [formula].

L. Cesari [1] a traité ce problème de minimisation dans l'hypothèse où (ƒ°,ƒ) est une application vectorielle continue.

Goodman [2] a fourni un moyen de lever l'hypothèse de continuité et de travailler avec des fonctions de Carathéodory.

Il a résolu un des problèmes essentiels de la théorie à savoir l'existence d'un contrôle mesurable u(t) associé à la fonction x(t) elle-même limite au sens de Cesari d'une suite de trajectoires.

[formula]

Ce que nous nous proposons de faire, c'est d'étendre les résultats de L. Cesari au cas où (ƒ°,ƒ) est une application de Carathéodory, et ce pour des problèmes de Pontryagin, c'est-à-dire des problèmes où les contrôles prennent leurs valeurs dans un compact.

Afin de rendre l'exposé plus clair nous reprendrons en partie les démonstrations de L. Cesari et G. Goodman.
Sur la surface de genres nuls et de bigenre deux de Castelnuovo
Authors: Godeaux Lucien
Published: June 2020

On démontre que la surface de Castelnuovo a le trigenre P3 = 1 et on détermine sa courbe tricanonique.
Sur les surfaces algébriques de genre zéro et de genre linéaire un
Authors: Godeaux Lucien
Published: June 2020

Détermination des surfaces algébriques de genres pa = pg = 0, p (1) = 1, contenant un faisceau de courbes elliptiques dont un certain nombre sont formées de courbes elliptiques isolées comptées plusieurs fois et dont les adjointes sont des fonctions linéaires de ces courbes.
Écoulement magnétohydrodynamique d'un fluide incompressible entre deux cylindres concentriques
Authors: Jaumotte André Louis , Dequin D. , Hirsch Charles
Published: June 2020

An experimental investigation is reported of an MHD mercury flow between two concentric circular cylinders with isolated walls. Head losses and voltage measurements are compared with theoretical predictions for large Hartmann numbers with an excellent agreement.
Equilibrium properties of quantum plasmas at finite temperature
Authors: Mandel Paul
Published: June 2020

The general solution of a class of singular integral equations is discussed. This class of equations is important in plasma physics. As an application, we solve explicitly an equation (of that class) introduced by R. Balescu in the study of quantum plasmas. It is shown that the binary correlation function as well as all thermodynamic functions may be expressed in terms of the solution of that equation.
Over een veralgemening van het konvergentiebegrip
Authors: Ervynck Gontran
Published: June 2020

Gewoonlijk spreekt men slechts van konvergentie in het kader van een topologische ruimte. Het is mogelijk dit begrip in te voeren op een willekeurige verzameling, zonder beroep te doen op een topologie. Men definieert de filters (in de zin van H. Cartan) die a priori naar een bepaald punt konvergeren. Daarbij is het begrip van voortbrengend deel van essentieel belang. Mits zekere, zeer algemene, axioma's in te voeren bekomt men een struktuur die veel eigenschappen van een topologie behouden heeft, maar toch algemener is.
Excitation de l'atome d'Hydrogène par un proton rapide
Authors: Baye D. , Demeur Marcel , Binon F.
Published: June 2020

L'excitation de l'atome d'hydrogène par un proton rapide dont le mouvement est décrit par une trajectoire rectiligne est étudiée par la méthode de diagonalisation introduite initialement par Alder et Winther dans le cadre de l'excitation coulombienne des états collectifs des noyaux atomiques. L'approximation brusque, qui est un cas particulier de cette méthode, n'a pas été retenue. La stabilité des résultats en fonction du nombre d'états retenus a été examinée et jugée bonne ; le nombre maximum des états retenus dans cette étude de stabilité est 55 (couches n < 5). Le domaine d'énergie exploré s'étend de 10 keV à 2500 keV. Nos résultats sont bons pour le peuplement des états qui peuvent être atteints par une transi¬ tion optiquement permise. Pour les autres, nos résultats sont inférieurs à ceux obtenus par résolution du système d'équations couplées.

La polarisation des raies de désexcitation 2p-ls et 3d-2p a été calculée.
Propriétés d'une grille d'aubes flexibles
Authors: Hirsch Charles
Published: June 2020

Une détermination théorique et expérimentale de la déviation et des pertes obtenues avec une grille d'aubes flexibles a été entreprise pour des pas et des nombres de Reynolds variés.

Le profil de la grille d'aubes flexibles est déterminé par la position du bord de fuite et on peut tenir compte d'une manière simple de l'influence de l'écoulement sur la forme de ce profil pour ce qui concerne la détermination de la distribution des pressions sur l'aube. Celle-ci est obtenue par la méthode des singularités et un calcul de couche limite permet l'obtention du coefficient de pertes.

Des corrections sont faites pour la présence de décollement éventuel ainsi que pour tenir compte de l'épaisseur non nulle du bord de fuite.

La comparaison avec les résultats expérimentaux permet de considérer que les prédéterminations effectuées sont très satisfaisantes.

Quatre types d'aubes ont été étudiés qui diffèrent par le mode de fixation du pivot du bord de fuite à l'aube et par le fait que l'une d'elles est une aube formée de deux tôles minces. Les mesures effectuées permettent d'exclure certains types par trop défavorables et de dégager les valeurs optimales du pas pour une zone de déviation déterminée.
Sur le théorème de permutabilité relatif aux sphères de Ribaucour
Authors: Backès Fernand
Published: June 2020

En envisageant la figure obtenue en soumettant une sphère de Ribaucour au théorème de permutabilité, nous considérons certains cercles et sphères attachés à cette configuration et établissons des propositions réciproques et notamment une propriété caractéristique des congruences de sphères cycliques.
Détermination de la densité de la thermosphère terrestre par l'observation de la fluorescence de nuages artificiels d'oxyde d'aluminium
Authors: Simon P. C.
Published: June 2020

The diffusion of AIO luminescent clouds formed during two rocket flights (ESRO payloads S 64-1 and S 64-2 on July 6 and 13, 1969, respectively) in Sardinia leads to the determination of the atmospheric density near 150 km in the terrestrial thermosphère.
L'influence de conditions aux limites à distance finie sur la quantification de l'atome d'hydrogène
Authors: Janssens Paul , Van Dooren René , Delchambre Monique
Published: June 2020

The quantum states of a bounded particle in a spherical symmetric potential are studied under the influence of different non classical boundary conditions, such as annuling the wave function upon a given sphere. The cases of Schrödinger, Klein-Gordon and Dirac equations are examined.
Critères de stabilité et d'évolution des systèmes électrochimiques hors d'équilibre
Authors: Sanfeld Albert , Steinchem-Sanfeld Annie
Published: June 2020

The Glansdorff-Prigogine linear stability theory of non equilibrium processes as well as the associated evolution criterion, are extended to polarized systems.

The equilibrium stability conditions are derived from the negative definite form of the second differential of entropy. Additional inequalities are obtained giving rise to dipole stability conditions.

The non equilibrium stability condition is formulated by using a Liapounoff function including both the second differential of entropy production and a negative term related to the electromagnetic energy.

The explicit form is then calculated by means of the excess balance equations for mass and energy as well as the Maxwell equations applied to the disturbance of the electromagnetic field. When convection occurs, the excess balance equation for momentum is also required.
Le problème de la zone paléontologique de base du Collovien, celle à Macrocephalites Macrocephalus, et ses Hétérochronismes
Authors: Maubeuge Pierre-louis
Published: June 2020

La présence d'une zone classique d'Ammonite à la base du Callovien, celle à M. Macrocephalus, distincte de la zone à R. Anceps auct., est à reconsidérer. De nombreuses trouvailles de M. Macrocephalus avec des espèces satellites, établissent que la zone à Macrocephalus couvre, au moins en partie, la zone à R. Anceps. Une coupe en Lorraine y démontre pour la première fois qu'on ne peut pas expliquer par des remaniements de faunes les anomalies biostratigraphiques signalées à plusieurs reprises dans ces niveaux du Jurassique.
Quelques propriétés des ensembles convexes linéairement bornés et des ensembles insérables, 287 (seconde note)
Authors: Coquet Gérard , Dupin Jean-Claude
Published: June 2020

Cette note fait suite à une précédente dont nous reprenons les notations.

Nous introduisons les notions d'ensembles « insérable » et «topologiquement insérable ». A l'aide de ces notions, nous caractérisons les ensembles ayant une enveloppe convexe fermée symétrique linéairement bornée. Enfin, nous donnons quelques applications géométriques et topologiques de ces notions.
Étude de la lumière émise par des faisceaux d'ions excités par le passage au travers d'une feuille mince
Authors: Dumont P. D.
Published: June 2020

The principle of the method and the main properties of the light emitted by excited ion beams passing through a thin foil are reviewed.

The experimental technique resulting from a collaboration between the « Institut d'Astrophysique » and the « Laboratoire de Physique Nucléaire Expérimentale » of the University of Liège is described. The preliminary results obtained with nitrogen beams are given.
Photochimie de l'ozone dans la stratosphère sous l'action des oxydes d'azote et des composés de l'hydrogène
Authors: Nicolet Marcel
Published: June 2020

The nature of the minor constituents which may have a controlling effect on the stratospheric ozone is discussed and the results of calculation are given. It is shown that there is practically no direct action on the ozone molecules as it is always assumed. All reactions involve atomic oxygen in photochemical equilibrium with ozone.

A catalytic destruction of ozone by water vapor occurs through reactions of hydroxyl and hydroperoxyl radicals produced in the oxidation of H2O by excited oxygen atoms O(1D). With mixing ratios greater than 3 ppmv, water vapor represents a significant ozone-destroying agent in the upper stratosphere. The catalytic destruction by nitrogen oxides requires a concentration of NO2 molecules greater than 109 cm-3 above 25 km. Injection of water vapor and of nitric oxide at stratospheric levels will have a controlling effect on the ozone concentration in the upper stratosphere if it leads to mixing ratios greater than 3 ppmv and 3 ppbv for H2O and NO2, respectively.

In the lower stratosphere (< 25 km) dynamic considerations must be introduced since there is a complete departure from photochemical equilibrium conditions which require several years.
Un nouvel aspect concernant la détermination du champ gravifique extérieur de la terre
Authors: Diaconu Ioan , Badesco Radu
Published: June 2020

Utilisant l'équation intégrale de la Géodésie-Physique de Molodenski, les auteurs proposent une méthode de calcul pour le champ gravifique en un point M de la surface de la Terre en fonction des mesures astronomo-géodésiques effectuées dans les régions environnantes. Observant que les méthodes actuelles négligent les zones situées dans le voisinage immédiat de M à cause de la singularité du noyau de l'équation intégrale en ce point, les auteurs tiennent compte aussi de ces zones ainsi que de la configuration approximative du terrain avoisinnant.
L'écoulement dans une tuyère de fusée accélérée (2e note)
Authors: Hirsch Charles , Jaumotte André Louis
Published: June 2020

The effect of rocket acceleration on the internal nozzle flow is investigated further by taking into account the effects of total mass variation. This leads to a time-dependant problem which is solved numericaly with the aid of the quasi-static formulas found in the first paper and based on a constant acceleration. These formulae are assumed to be valid for short time intervals. Acceleration effects could be noticeable during the final period of combustion.
Recherches sur la structure des points de diramation d'une surface algébrique multiple (1er note)
Authors: Godeaux Lucien
Published: June 2020

Recherches sur la structure des points de diramation d'une surface algébrique multiple d'ordre premier image d'une involution cyclique n'ayant qu'un nombre fini de points unis appartenant à une surface algébrique.
Recherches sur la structure des points de diramation d'une surface algébrique multiple (3e note)
Authors: Godeaux Lucien
Published: June 2020

Étude des points de diramation de seconde espèce et de troisième catégorie, dans le cas où le cône tangent en un de ces points se décompose en quatre cônes rationnels.
The detection of gravitational waves by electromagnetic oscillators
Authors: Halpern Léopold
Published: June 2020

Une méthode pour la détection du rayonnement gravifique par son interaction avec le rayonnement électromagnétique, proposée par Braginskii et Menskii, est examinée et une variante améliorée de cette méthode est présentée. Les aspects quantiques des phénomènes en question sont discutés ; il en résulte qu'un champ gravifique quantifié d'après la méthode de Gupta-Feynman donne lieu à des changements des fréquences du rayonnement électromagnétique lesquels ne se manifestent pas dans l'approximation classique et qui pourraient devenir observables.
Surfaces algébriques régulières possédant une courbe canonique d'ordre zéro et quatre points doubles coniques
Authors: Godeaux Lucien
Published: June 2020

Détermination d'un groupe de transformations birationnelles en soi d'une surface algébrique de genres pa — P4 = 1 certaines étant involutives et d'autres non périodiques.
Variétés algébriques en relation avec les variétés de Véronèse et de Segre
Authors: Godeaux Lucien
Published: June 2020

Construction de variétés algébriques lieux de droites joignant les points de deux variétés de Veronese ou de Segre.
Sur le problème de Goursat pour une équation de Mangeron d'ordre supérieur, II
Authors: Oguztöreli Mehmet N.
Published: June 2020

Dans cet article, l'auteur, tout en continuant l'ordre d'idées de son travail récent inséré dans le même Bulletin [1], considère le problème de Goursat qui consiste dans la détermination d'une fonction u(x,y) de classe C2n-1 dans D=(FORMULE}, qui admet dans la n-e dérivée totale de Picone, (FORMULE}. continue et y satisfait l'équation de Mangeron (3) et les conditions de Goursat (5).