bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functional Ability, Participation, and Health-Related Quality of Life After Hip Fracture
Authors: Segev-Jacubovski Orit , Magen Hagit , Maeir Adina
Published: September 2018

Hip fracture is prevalent among older adults impacting on all aspects of daily life. The gaols of this study were: (a) Examine the trajectory of activities of daily living (ADL)/instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) functioning and participation among older adults with hip fracture from prefracture to 6-months postrehabilitation; (b) determine the relationship between health-related quality of life (HRQoL), functional abilities, and participation 6-months postrehabilitation; and (c) examine whether functional outcomes can predict HRQoL. Both retrospective and prospective data were analyzed. Fifty-five participants (Mean age = 80.82) completed the motor component of the functional independence measure (mFIM), IADL questionnaire, Activity Card Sort, and SF-12. Prefracture levels of function and participation were not attained. Significant correlations were found between HRQoL, functional abilities, and participation. ADL functioning and mobility predicted Physical SF-12, whereas social-cultural activity predicted Mental SF-12. Significant loss of functioning and participation was found, persisting 6 months after rehabilitation that impede their HRQoL. Improving functioning, mobility, and social participation can be achieved by occupational therapy intervention for promoting HRQoL among elderly with hip fracture.
Perceived Risks and Benefits in IPV and HIV Research: Listening to the Voices of HIV-Positive African American Women
Authors: Overstreet Nicole M. , Okuyan Mukadder , Fisher Celia B.
Published: September 2018

African American women living with HIV were asked to reflect on the perceived risks and benefits of research participation after completing a study examining socially sensitive issues in their lives, including intimate partner violence (IPV) and HIV. Administration of standardized quantitative instruments yielded positive responses to the research experience. However, qualitative assessments of perceived risks and benefits revealed more nuanced responses. For example, confidentiality concerns were more prominent in open-ended responses as was participants’ positive attitudes toward monetary compensation. In addition, some women reported that study participation provided them with new insights about their experiences with IPV. Findings suggest that empirical studies on research protections involving potentially distressing and socially sensitive experiences with vulnerable populations require both quantitative and qualitative assessments of perceived risks and benefits. We discuss implications of our findings for ethics practices in trauma-related research among populations with multiple social vulnerabilities.
An overview and critique of the Test of Visual Perception Skills – fourth edition (TVPS-4)
Authors: Brown Ted , Peres Lisa
Published: September 2018

Introduction

The Test of Visual Perception Skills – fourth edition (TVPS-4) is an updated version of the Test of Visual Perception Skills – third edition (TVPS-3). The TVPS-4 is a standardized assessment of motor-free visual perception skills for individuals aged 5–21 years. Test norms were derived from a normative sample that reflected the United States population.

Method

The present paper outlines and appraises the reliability and validity of the TVPS-4. Measurement properties of the TVPS-4 were critiqued using the Quality Criteria for Health Status Questionnaires (QCHSQ) and the Consensus-based Standards for the Selection of Health Measurement Instruments (COSMIN) checklist with 4-point rating scale.

Results

The TVPS-4 manual reports details of reasonable levels and types of overall reliability and validity. The QCHSQ and COSMIN checklist reviews suggested that further research is needed in relation to the TVPS-4’s measurement error, reproducibility, internal consistency and cross-cultural validity.

Conclusion

The TVPS-4 is an in-depth assessment that can be used to identify areas of impairment and assist with goal setting and intervention planning. The impact of the TVPS-4 on occupational therapy practice is also considered. Future research could investigate the cross-cultural validity of the TVPS-4 so that it can be used in other countries with confidence.
Digital Diabetes Data and Artificial Intelligence: A Time for Humility Not Hubris
Authors: Kerr David , Klonoff David C.
Published: September 2018

In the future artificial intelligence (AI) will have the potential to improve outcomes diabetes care. With the creation of new sensors for physiological monitoring sensors and the introduction of smart insulin pens, novel data relationships based on personal phenotypic and genotypic information will lead to selections of tailored, effective therapies that will transform health care. However, decision-making processes based exclusively on quantitative metrics that ignore qualitative factors could create a quantitative fallacy. Difficult to quantify inputs into AI-based therapeutic decision-making processes include empathy, compassion, experience, and unconscious bias. Failure to consider these “softer” variables could lead to important errors. In other words, that which is not quantified about human health and behavior is still part of the calculus for determining therapeutic interventions.
Ischemic Stroke Secondary to Stylocarotid Variant of Eagle Syndrome
Authors: Qureshi Shakaib , Farooq Muhammad U. , Gorelick Philip B.
Published: September 2018

Eagle syndrome is a rare cause of stroke and results as a complication of the elongated styloid process (ESP), which can cause carotid dissection and consequent ischemic stroke. We report a case of a 42-year-old woman with a past medical history of rheumatoid arthritis who developed left hemispheric ischemic stroke after deep tissue massage. Imaging studies revealed an intimal tear of the left carotid artery bulb and bilaterally ESPs, measuring approximately 6 cm on the right and 4.5 cm on the left. It seems that direct vascular compromise by the anomalous styloid process was the cause of her carotid artery dissection and stroke. Moreover, neck manipulation may have been a contributing factor.
Altered duodenal bile salt concentration and receptor expression in functional dyspepsia
Authors: Beeckmans Dorien , Riethorst Danny , Augustijns Patrick , Vanuytsel Tim , Farré Ricard , Tack Jan , Vanheel Hanne
Published: September 2018

Background

Functional dyspepsia is a common functional gastrointestinal disorder in which a variety of pathophysiological mechanisms such as increased intestinal permeability and low‐grade inflammation are involved. The factor causing these alterations, however, has not been identified.

Objective

We aimed to evaluate the luminal bile salt content and receptor expression in patients with functional dyspepsia and healthy volunteers.

Methods

Gastroduodenoscopy was performed to obtain duodenal biopsies from 25 healthy volunteers and 25 patients with functional dyspepsia (Rome III) to measure duodenal bile salt receptor expression with Western blot. Duodenal fluid aspirates were collected at fixed time points during fasted and fed state conditions and bile salt composition analysis was performed by liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry.

Results

Patients (N = 17) displayed decreased fasted bile salt concentrations compared to healthy volunteers (N = 20) over time (1.8 ± 0.3 mM vs 3.6 ± 0.5 mM; p = 0.03). In addition, an increased expression of duodenal bile salt sensor vitamin D receptor was found in patients (3.7 ± 1.0‐fold; p < 0.0005; N = 24 for both groups).

Conclusion

Patients with functional dyspepsia are characterized by a decreased duodenal bile salt concentration in fasted state and an increased duodenal vitamin D receptor expression.
When Group Work Doesn’t Work: Insights from Students
Authors: Chang Yunjeong , Brickman Peggy
Published: September 2018

Introducing group work in college science classrooms can lead to noticeable gains in student achievement, reasoning ability, and motivation. To realize these gains, students must all contribute. Strategies like assigning roles, group contracts, anonymous peer evaluations, and peer ratings all encourage student participation. In a class using these strategies, we conducted in-depth interviews to uncover student perceptions of group work in general and the utility of these support strategies. Students in both high- and low-performance groups still complained of unequal contributions while praising the social support provided by groups. Students who scored highly on tests were more likely to recognize the benefits of group work, regardless of their groups’ overall performance levels, while lower-scoring students perceived group work as time-consuming “busy work” with little cognitive benefit. Comments from anonymous peer evaluations differed only subtly between high- and low-performance groups. Numerical ratings on these evaluations did correlate with overall group performance. However, students in lower-performance groups assigned harsh ratings to their low-scoring members, while students in higher-performance groups were more generous in their ratings for low-scoring members. We discuss implications of relying on support strategies for promoting productive group work.
On the Seismic Fragility Assessment of Concrete Gravity Dams in Eastern Canada
Authors: Segura Rocio , Bernier Carl , Monteiro Ricardo , Paultre Patrick
Published: September 2018

In recent years, probabilistic methods, such as fragility analysis, have emerged as reliable tools for the seismic assessment of dam-type structures. These methods require the selection of a representative suite of ground motion records, resulting in the need for a ground motion selection method that includes all the relevant ground motion parameters in the fragility analysis of this type of structure. This article presents the development of up-to-date fragility curves for the sliding limit states of gravity dams in Eastern Canada using a record selection method based on the generalized conditional intensity measure approach. These fragility functions are then combined with the recently developed regional hazard data to evaluate the annual risk, which is measured in terms of the unconditional probability of limit state exceedance. The proposed methodology is applied to a case study dam in northeastern Canada, whose fragility is assessed through comparison with previous studies and current safety guidelines. It is observed that the more accurate procedure proposed herein produces less conservative fragility estimates for the case study dam.
Avelumab (anti–PD-L1) in combination with crizotinib or lorlatinib in patients with previously treated advanced NSCLC: Phase 1b results from JAVELIN Lung 101.
Authors: Shaw Alice Tsang , Lee Se-Hoon , Ramalingam Suresh S. , Bauer Todd Michael , Boyer Michael J. , Carcereny Costa Enric , Felip Enriqueta , Han Ji-Youn , Hida Toyoaki , Hughes Brett Gordon Maxwell , Kim Sang-We , Nishio Makoto , Seto Takashi , Ezeh Patrick , Chakrabarti Debasis , Wang Jing , Chang Andrew , Fumagalli Luca , Solomon Benjamin J.
Published: September 2018

9008

Background:
ALK tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) are standard of care for patients (pts) with advanced ALK+ NSCLC, and preclinical data suggest potential synergistic activity with checkpoint inhibitors in NSCLC irrespective of ALK status. Avelumab is a human anti–PD-L1 IgG1 monoclonal antibody approved in various countries for treatment of metastatic Merkel cell carcinoma, and in the US for advanced urothelial carcinoma that has progressed following platinum therapy. We report initial results from JAVELIN Lung 101 (NCT02584634), a phase 1b/2 dose-finding trial of avelumab + crizotinib (A+C) or the next-generation ALK TKI lorlatinib (A+L) in pts with advanced/metastatic ALK-negative/wildtype (ALK−) or ALK+ NSCLC, respectively.
Methods:
In phase 1b, pts with previously treated ALK− NSCLC received A (10 mg/kg Q2W) + C (250 mg BID) while pts with ALK+ NSCLC received A (10 mg/kg Q2W) + L (100 mg QD) (starting dose levels in each group). The primary endpoint was dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs); secondary endpoints included adverse events (AEs) and objective responses.
Results:
At data cutoff on Oct 27, 2017, 12 ALK− pts had received A+C and 28 ALK+ pts had received A+L. All ALK− pts had received prior anticancer therapy; ALK+ pts had received a median 2 prior ALK TKIs (range 1-3; data not reported for 1 ALK+ pt). DLTs occurred with A+C in 5 ALK− pts (41.7%): ALT and AST increase (2 pts each), febrile neutropenia, hepatitis, QT prolongation, and rash (1 pt each). No DLTs occurred with A+L in ALK+ pts. Grade ≥3 AEs of any causality occurred with A+C in 7 ALK− pts (58.3%; most common [≥10%] was ALT increase [16.7%, n = 2]), and with A+L in 15 ALK+ pts (53.6%; most common were hypertriglyceridemia [14.3%, n = 4] and GGT increase [10.7%, n = 3]). The confirmed objective response rate with A+C in ALK− pts was 16.7% (95% CI, 2.1-48.4; partial response [PR] in 2 pts), and with A+L in ALK+ pts was 46.4% (95% CI, 27.5-66.1; PR in 12 pts; complete response in 1 pt).
Conclusions:
A+L showed an acceptable safety profile, distinct from A+C, and promising antitumor activity in pts with ALK+ NSCLC, and will be evaluated in treatment-naive pts in phase 2.
Clinical trial information: NCT02584634.
The impact of patient age on toxicity and efficacy of immunotherapy agents.
Authors: Zhang Shuai , Samani Amit , Spiers Laura , Tippu Zayd , Suwaidan Ali Abdulnabi , Merrick Sophie , Van Hemelrijck Mieke , Payne Miranda , Faust Guy , Papa Sophie , Josephs Debra Hannah
Published: September 2018

e15116

Background: Little data exists for the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) in patients ≥80y old. Ageing is associated with immunosenescence, which may impact the efficacy and toxicity of immune-based therapies. Here we provide efficacy and immune related adverse event (irAE) data for patients ≥80y old and younger patient cohorts treated in routine clinical practice at 3 UK Cancer Centres: Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust. Methods: Melanoma, renal cell carcinoma (RCC), non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and urothelial carcinoma (UC) patients treated with ICIs between March 2016 – August 2018 were identified, and divided into five age-defined cohorts: < 50y, 50-59y, 60-69y, 70-79y, ≥80y. Median progression free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method with data censored on 5th February 2018. Frequency and severity of five common irAEs were determined: hepatitis, endocrinopathies, immune-related gastrointestinal, skin and rheumatological. Results: 386 patients aged 22 – 98y (median 67y) received single-agent nivolumab (21%), pembrolizumab (62%), ipilimumab (10%) or combination ipilimumab and nivolumab (7%). 12% of patients were aged < 50y, 18% were 50-59y, 29% were 60-69y, 28% were 70-79y and 13% were ≥80y. Response rates (partial + complete response) were similar across all age groups (53% < 50y, 29% 50-59y, 48% 60-69y, 43% 70-79y and 47% ≥80y). Median PFS was 10.6, 10.3, 10.0, 5.8 and 19.7 months and OS was not reached, not reached, 29.0, 18.3, and 20.9 months for patients < 50y, 50-59y, 60-69y, 70-79y and ≥80y, respectively. The rate of any grade irAEs was lowest in patients ≥80y (59%), and highest in patients < 50y (92%). Grade 3-5 irAEs were also less frequent in patients ≥80y (10%) than those < 50y and 60-69y (both 18%). Conclusions: Of 386 patients 13% were ≥80y with response rates comparable to younger patient cohorts and rates of irAEs lower than younger patient cohorts in this retrospective analysis of a heterogenous patient population. Our data suggests that ICIs are well-tolerated and efficacious in elderly patients and that age alone should not preclude ICI use.
C-type lectin-like receptor 2 (CLEC-2)-dependent DC migration is controlled by tetraspanin CD37
Authors: de Winde Charlotte M. , Matthews Alexandra L. , van Deventer Sjoerd , van der Schaaf Alie , Tomlinson Neil D. , Jansen Erik , Eble Johannes A. , Nieswandt Bernhard , McGettrick Helen M. , Figdor Carl G. , Tomlinson Michael G. , Acton Sophie E. , van Spriel Annemiek B.
Published: September 2018

Cell migration is central to evoke a potent immune response. Dendritic cell (DC) migration to lymph nodes is dependent on the interaction of C-type lectin-like receptor 2 (CLEC-2) expressed by DCs with podoplanin expressed by lymph node stromal cells, although the molecular mechanisms remain elusive. Here, we show that CLEC-2-dependent DC migration is controlled by tetraspanin CD37, a membrane-organizing protein. We identified a specific interaction between CLEC-2 and CD37, and myeloid cells lacking CD37 (Cd37-/-) expressed reduced surface CLEC-2. CLEC-2-expressing Cd37-/- DCs showed impaired adhesion, migration velocity and displacement on lymph node stromal cells. Moreover, Cd37-/- DCs failed to form actin protrusions in a 3D collagen matrix upon podoplanin-induced CLEC-2 stimulation, phenocopying CLEC-2-deficient DCs. Microcontact printing experiments revealed that CD37 is required for CLEC-2 recruitment in the membrane to its ligand podoplanin. Finally, Cd37-/- DCs failed to inhibit actomyosin contractility in lymph node stromal cells, thus phenocopying CLEC-2-deficient DCs. This study demonstrates that tetraspanin CD37 controls CLEC-2 membrane organization and provides new molecular insights underlying CLEC-2-dependent DC migration.
Effects of EPO on Blood Parameters and Running Performance in Kenyan Athletes
Authors: HAILE DIRESIBACHEW W. , DURUSSEL JÉRÔME , MEKONEN WONDYEFRAW , ONGARO NEFORD , ANJILA EDWIN , MOOSES MARTIN , DASKALAKI EVANGELIA , MOOSES KERLI , MCCLURE JOHN D. , SUTEHALL SHAUN , PITSILADIS YANNIS P.
Published: September 2018

Introduction

Recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEpo) administration enhances oxygen carrying capacity and performance at sea level. It remains unknown whether similar effects would be observed in chronic altitude-adapted endurance runners. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of rHuEpo on hematological and performance parameters in chronic altitude-adapted endurance runners as compared to sea level athletes.

Methods

Twenty well-trained Kenyan endurance runners (KEN) living and training at approximately 2150 m received rHuEpo injections of 50 IU·kg−1body mass every 2 d for 4 wk and responses compared with another cohort (SCO) that underwent an identical protocol at sea level. Blood samples were obtained at baseline, during rHuEpo administration and 4 wk after the final injection. A maximal oxygen uptake (V˙O2max) test and 3000-m time trial was performed before, immediately after and 4 wk after the final rHuEpo injection.

Results

Hematocrit (HCT) and hemoglobin concentration (HGB) were higher in KEN compared to SCO before rHuEpo but similar at the end of administration. Before rHuEpo administration, KEN had higher V˙O2maxand faster time trial performance compared to SCO. After rHuEpo administration, there was a similar increase in V˙O2maxand time trial performance in both cohorts; most effects of rHuEpo were maintained 4 wk after the final rHuEpo injection in both cohorts.

Conclusions

Four weeks of rHuEpo increased the HGB and HCT of Kenyan endurance runners to a lesser extent than in SCO (~17% vs ~10%, respectively) and these alterations were associated with similar improvements in running performance immediately after the rHuEpo administration (~5%) and 4 wk after rHuEpo (~3%).
A case series report of cancer patients undergoing group body psychotherapy
Authors: Grossert Astrid , Meinlschmidt Gunther , Schaefert Rainer
Published: September 2018

Background: Disturbances in bodily wellbeing represent a key source of psychosocial suffering and impairment related to cancer. Therefore, interventions to improve bodily wellbeing in post-treatment cancer patients are of paramount importance. Notably, body psychotherapy (BPT) has been shown to improve bodily wellbeing in subjects suffering from a variety of mental disorders. However, how post-treatment cancer patients perceive and subjectively react to group BPT aiming at improving bodily disturbances has, to the best of our knowledge, not yet been described.

Methods: We report on six patients undergoing outpatient group BPT that followed oncological treatment for malignant neoplasms. The BPT consisted of six sessions based on a scientific embodiment approach, integrating body-oriented techniques to improve patients’ awareness, perception, acceptance, and expression regarding their body.

Results: The BPT was well accepted by all patients. Despite having undergone different types of oncological treatment for different cancer types and locations, all subjects reported having appreciated BPT and improved how they perceived their bodies. However, individual descriptions of improvements showed substantial heterogeneity across subjects. Notably, most patients indicated that sensations, perceptions, and other mental activities related to their own body intensified when proceeding through the group BPT sessions.

Conclusion: The findings from this case series encourage and inform future studies examining whether group BPT is efficacious in post-treatment cancer patients and investigating the related mechanisms of action. The observed heterogeneity in individual descriptions of perceived treatment effects point to the need for selecting comprehensive indicators of changes in disturbances of bodily wellbeing as the primary patient-reported outcome in future clinical trials. While increases in mental activities related to their own body are commonly interpreted as important mechanisms of therapeutic action in BPT, follow-up assessments are needed to evaluate intended and unintended consequences of these changes in cancer patients.
Risks of Motivation and Incentiveness of Labour Staff Activities of the Personnel: Regional Experience
Authors: Чуланова Оксана , Chulanova Oksana , Рынгач О. , Ryngach O.
Published: September 2018

Management decisions in the system of motivation of the labor activity of personnel entail certain personnel risks, the consequences of which may have a different nature for the enterprise, especially during the crisis period. The article presents the main concepts and possible personnel risks in organizing the process of motivating work and stimulating the work of employees.
MULTIMODALIDADES E LEITURAS: FUNCIONAMENTO COGNITIVO, RECURSOS SEMIÓTICOS, CONVENÇÕES VISUAIS - LIVRO DE ANGELA PAIVA DIONISIO, LEILA JANOT DE VASCONCELOS E MARIA MEDIANEIRA DE SOUZA
Authors: Da Silva Silvio Profirio , De Lucena Josete Marinho
Published: September 2018

Resenha do livro de DIONISIO, A. P., VASCONCELOS, L. J., SOUZA,M.M. Multimodalidades e Leituras: funcionamento cognitivo, recursos semióticos, convenções visuais. Recife: Pipa Comunicação, 2014.
Stomaching the pain of spinal fusion: Gastrointestinal discomfort is as severe as back pain in 50% of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients following posterior spinal fusion
Authors: Villamor G. A. , Andras L. M. , Chan P. , Jalloh H. , Sanders A. E. , Yang J. , Choi P. D. , Tolo V. T. , Skaggs D. L.
Published: September 2018

Purpose

There have been no prospective studies investigating gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms of patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) following posterior spinal fusion (PSF). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the incidence and severity of self-reported GI symptoms following PSF.

Methods

In all, 40 AIS patients undergoing PSF were prospectively enrolled between March 2015 and October 2016. Patients completed a survey on each postoperative, inpatient day regarding nausea, emesis, constipation, abdominal pain and back pain, rating their pain on a scale of 1 to 10.

Results

Abdominal pain (50%), emesis (63%), nausea (65%) and constipation (68%) were experienced by the majority of patients. Of those reporting back pain, the mean pain level during the postoperative period was 5.1 (0.2 to 9.6). Of those reporting abdominal pain, the mean pain level during the postoperative period was 5.5 (1.4 to 8.6), which was not different than the severity of their back-pain levels (mean = 6.0, p = 0.31).

Conclusions

Gastrointestinal issues in AIS patients following PSF are common. Abdominal pain was as severe as the back pain for half of the patients.

Level of Evidence

II
Ethylenediamine Processed Cu2SnS3 Nano Particles via Mild Solution Route
Authors: Helan Paul Nesamony Prathiba Jeya , Mohanraj Kannusamy , Thanikaikarasan Sethuramachandran , Mahalingam Thaiyan , Sivakumar Ganesan , Sebastian P. J.
Published: September 2018

Copper tin sulphide nanoparticles have been prepared by solution growth technique at various ethylenediamine concentrations. Prepared samples have been characterized using x-ray diffraction, fourier transform infrared, Raman and scanning electron microscopy techniques. x-ray diffraction results revealed that the prepared samples are nanocrystalline in nature with tetragonal structure. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis results showed the presence of Cu-O, Sn-O and Sn-S vibrations in the wavenumber range between 450 and 620 cm-1. Vibrational symmetry of prepared samples have been analyzed using Raman spectroscopy. Scanning electron microscopy analysis indicated the formation of flower like nanocrystals for samples prepared at various Ethylenediamine concentrations.
Sol-gel Synthesis and Characterizations of MgSO4- Al2O3 Composite Solid Electrolytes
Authors: Su N. Che , Sulaiman M. , Mohamed N. S.
Published: September 2018

In this study, composite solid electrolytes in the system (1-x) MgSO4 – x Al2O3 with x = 0.1 - 0.6 mole were prepared by a citric acid assisted sol-gel method. X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed the transformation of anhydrous MgSO4 to β-MgSO4 upon sintering at 900 ˚C for 2 hours. The prepared composite samples exhibited both crystalline and amorphous state of β-MgSO4. The highest conductivity found was 1.9 ×10-6 S cm-1 with x = 0.6 at elevated temperatures. The current results show that high concentration of Al2O3 enhanced the disordered phase composite sample thus contributes to high concentration amorphous of composite samples. This has been supported by FTIR, DSC and SEM.
Calcium Cobalt Hexacyanoferrate Cathodes for Rechargeable Divalent Ion Batteries
Authors: Padigi Prasanna , Kuperman Neal , Thiebes Joseph James , Goncher Gary , Evans David , Solanki Raj
Published: September 2018

Calcium cobalt hexacyanoferrate (CaCoHCF) was synthesized and tested as a cathode material for rechargeable batteries, using divalent cations (Mg2+, Ca2+, Ba2+). CaCoHCF demonstrated reversible specific capacity and coulombic efficiency (in parentheses) of 45.49 mAh/g (99.18%) for Mg2+, 55.04 mAh/g (99.2%) for Ca2+, and 44.09 mAh/g (99.42%) for Ba2+, at a current density of 25 mA/g. Of the three ions, Ca2+ resulted in the highest absolute specific capacity as well as high specific capacity utilization. The cathodes were also subjected to rate capability measurements using current densities of 50 mA/g (30 cycles) and 0.1 A/g (100 cycles). Upon addition of 2 mL water to the non-aqueous electrolyte, the fraction of theoretical specific capacity increased to 0.55 for Mg2+, 94.8% for Ca2+, and 95.53% forBa2+. This increase has been interpreted as the ability of the cathode material to intercalate and de-intercalate more ions due to the electrostatic shielding provided by water molecules between the host lattice and the guest cations. An empirical relationship between the cation size and specific capacity utilization is presented.Calcium cobalt hexacyanoferrate (CaCoHCF) was synthesized and tested as a cathode material for rechargeable batteries, using divalent cations (Mg2+, Ca2+, Ba2+). CaCoHCF demonstrated reversible specific capacity and coulombic efficiency (in parentheses) of 45.49 mAh/g (99.18%) for Mg2+, 55.04 mAh/g (99.2%) for Ca2+, and 44.09 mAh/g (99.42%) for Ba2+, at a current density of 25 mA/g. Of the three ions, Ca2+ resulted in highest absolute specific capacity as well as high specific capacity utilization. The cathodes were also subjected to rate capability measurements using current densities of 50 mA/g (30 cycles) and 0.1 A/g (100 cycles). Upon addition of 2 mL water to the non-aqueous electrolyte, the fraction of theoretical specific capacity increased to 0.55 for Mg2+, 94.8% for Ca2+, and 95.53% forBa2+. This increase has been interpreted as the ability of the cathode material to intercalate and de-intercalate more ions due to the electrostatic shielding provided by water molecules between the host lattice and the guest cations. An empirical relationship between the cation size and specific capacity utilization is presented.
Pd Octahedral and Spherical Nanocrystals Supported on Crumpled Graphene Oxide: Their Comparative Studies for Electrocatalytic Applications
Authors: Khan Majid , Yousaf Ammar Bin , Imran Muhammad
Published: September 2018

Palladium (Pd) octahedral and spherical nanocrystals (NCs) were successfully synthesized on crumpled graphene oxide (GO) by surface adsorption of H2 and CO in the presence of capping agent poly(vinylypyrrolidone) (PVP). Their comparative studies as anode material for direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs) have been measured by hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) performance and methanol oxidation reaction (MOR) activity. The electrocatalytic properties of both the nanocrystals were studied in HClO4 acidic media and com-pared with each other. Pd octahedral nanocrystals have shown the best performance as an anode material, their onset potential for evolu-tion of hydrogen from the active sites of the catalyst is more towards zero than the spherical NCs. The observed specific activity (ca. 4.3 mA.cm-2) and mass activity (ca. 5300 mA.mg-1) of Pd towards MOR is much higher for octahedral NCs than that of spherical NCs.
Reagentless, Electrochemical Aptasensor for Lead (II) Detection
Authors: Lin Yan , Cheng Lin , Wei Guo Bing , He Ling Ling , Chen Cha Dan , De Rong kong , Peng Hong , Fan Hao
Published: September 2018

A novel strategy for selective and sensitive amperometric detection of lead ion (Pb2+) was proposed based on target-inducedconformational switch. The ferrocene-labeled aptamer thiol was self-assembled through S-Au bonding on a gold electrode surface and thesurface was blocked with 2-mercaptoethanol to form a mixed monolayer. The aptamer-modified electrode was characterized electrochemicallyby differential pulse voltammetry (DPV), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The modified electrode showed a voltammetricsignal due to a one-step redox reaction of the surface-confined ferrocenyl moiety of the aptamer immobilized on the electrodesurface in 20mM Tris–HCl buffers buffer of pH 7.4. The “signal-on” upon Pb2+ association could be attributed to a change in conformationfrom random coil-like configuration on the probe-modified film to the quadruplex structure. The fabricated biosensor showed alinear response to the logarithm of Pb2+ concentration over the range of 5.0×10-10 M to 1.0×10-7 M with a detection limit of 1.2×10-10 M.In addition, this strategy afforded an exquisite selectivity for Pb2+ against other metal ions. The excellent sensitivity and selectivity showgood potential for Pb2+ detection in real Chinese herb samples.
Study on the Performance of the Ionic Liquids [Emim]CH3SO3 and [Emim]PF6 to Prepare the Biosensor of the Detection of Heavy Metals in Seawater
Authors: Ma Xuhui , Zhao Shipeng , Zhang Shuping
Published: September 2018

Electrochemical sensors can detect the heavy metal ions in seawater quickly, conveniently and accurately with the advantages such as the fast detection speed, the simple operability and the low cost. The ionic liquid [Emim]CH3SO3 showed excellent electrochemical performance and could meet the initial application requirements as electrochemical sensors. The characters of the ionic liquids [Emim]CH3SO3 and [Emim]PF6 which include IR, LC-MS, conductivity, electrochemical window and viscosity were detected. The influ-ence of trace impurity on the conductivity of the ionic liquids was investigated. Results suggested that the conductivity of the ionic liquids increased with the concentration of the added organic solvents. In addition, though the conductivity of the ionic liquids increased with temperature, there is no significant difference in the influence of the same impurity at varying temperatures. Muti Walls Carbon Nanotubes (MWCNTs) are appropriate materials which are commonly used materials for electrochemical sensor applications. The effect of theImidaz-olium-based ionic liquids on the performance of the conductivity of the MWCNTs was studied. It was found that Ionic liquid is an excellent extraction agent for metal ions and its presence in the sensor system improves significantly the detection of heavy metal ions.
Efek Sudut Serang Concave Delta Winglet Vortex Generators Terhadap Kenaikan Laju Perpindahan Panas Di Dalam Aliran Fluida
Authors: Syaiful Syaiful , Utomo MSK Tony Suryo , Febriandy Hengky Dwi
Published: September 2018

Fin and tube heat exchanger adalah salah satu penukar kalor compact yang digunakan dalam berbagai aplikasi, seperti pada industri petroleum, industri kimia, industri HVAC dan indistri otomotif. Oleh karena itu peningkatan performa termal pada heat exchanger perlu untuk dilakukan. Salah satu cara untuk meningkatkan performa termal pada heat exchanger adalah dengan meningkatkan koefisien perpindahan panas konveksi pada fluida. Pada studi sekarang ini, eksperimen dilakukan untuk mengetahui beberapa parameter yang mempengaruhi perbaikan perpindahan panas. Eksperimental dilakukan dengan memasang vortex generators pada sudut serang 15, 30 dan 45 dengan susunan satu, dua dan tiga baris di dalam saluran persegi empat. Pada eksperimen ini, concave delta winglet vortex generators (CDW VGs) dan tanpa vortex generator (baseline) diinvestigasi. Kecepatan udara masuk ke dalam saluran persegi empat ditentukan pada rentang 0.4-2.0 m/s dengan interval 0.2 m/s dengan laju panas konstan 35 W pada plat dimana vortex generators ditempelkan. Pada kasus tiga baris DWP VG dengan sudut serang 45̊, koefisien perpindahan panas konveksi rata-rata meningkat 1,68 kali lebih besar daripada baseline. Sedangkan pada kasus tiga baris CDWP VGs dengan sudut serang 45̊, koefisien perpindahan panas konveksi rata-rata meningkat 1,76 kali lebih besar daripada tiga baris DWP VG.
The mechanism of antibacterial activity of corylifolinin against three clinical bacteria from Psoralen corylifolia L
Authors: He Nan , Zhou Juan , Hu Miyun , Ma Changyang , Kang Wenyi
Published: September 2018

Effective antibacterial activity against Grampositive bacteria isolated in clinical strains was exhibited when corylifolinin was tested using the Disc diffusion method (K-B method). Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of corylifolinin against Staphylococcus aureus (SA), Methcillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and extended spectrum β-lactamases Staphylococcus aureus (ESBLs-SA) were 0.078, 0.156 and 0.078 mg/mL, respectively. The minimum bactericide concentrations (MBCs) were 0.156, 0.156 and 0.078 mg/mL respectively. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), alkaline phosphatase (AKP) and bacterial extracellular protein leakage were used to investigate the antibacterial mechanism of corylifolinin. After adding corylifolinin at the MBC level, there were obvious changes to the Staphylococcus aureus of bacteria cells. Both MIC level and MBC levels of corylifolinin led to the leakage of AKP and bacterial extracellular protein.
Crystal structure of (Z)-2-bromo-3-(3,5-di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxyphenyl)-1-phenylprop-2-en-1-one, C23H27BrO2
Authors: Khalilov Ali N. , Asgarova Ayten R. , Gurbanov Atash V. , Maharramov Abel M. , Nagiyev Farid N. , Brito Iván
Published: September 2018

C23H27BrO2, P21/n (no. 14), a = 10.3200(18) Å, b = 15.905(3)(6) Å, c = 12.913(2) Å, β = 97.683(4), V = 2100.6(6) Å3, Z = 4, R
gt(F) = 0.0319, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.0872, T = 296(2) K.
Literature, Art and the Democracy to Come: A Legal Approach to The Danish Girl
Authors: Ribeiro Fernando Armando
Published: September 2018

This paper intends to be a legal-philosophical approach to the film The Danish Girl, which tells the story of the first person to undergo a sex change surgery. However, the paper does not attempt to address the preeminent question in the movie, concerning gender issues. Our proposal comes from the hypothesis of art as the best conceivable place for the invention of an “other” that comes. The reflections brought about by the film point to the very heart of the Law and Humanities movement, since it shows how otherness may precede any conceptual dimension, as well as the important question concerning the possibility (or necessity?) of transformation of Law through art. Therefore, we will try to show how the idea of literature, based on Derrida’s concept,

Jacques Derrida, Positions (Belo Horizonte: Autêntica, 2001).

could indicate a possible ethical path to implement the confluence between legal and artistic narratives, presenting itself as a fertile soil for the opening to the otherness that comes, towards the transformation of the very idea of justice.
Behandlung und Prävention von Diabetes: Erfolge und Herausforderungen
Authors: Bitzer Barbara , Müller-Wieland Dirk
Published: September 2018

Diabetes hat sich in Industrieländern zu einer der häufigsten Krankheiten entwickelt. In Deutschland ist fast jeder Zehnte betroffen. Maßgeblich dazu beigetragen hat die Zunahme von Risikofaktoren wie Adipositas. Eine verbesserte Versorgung konnte zwar für mehrere Folgeerkrankungen die Inzidenzrate senken, jedoch haben Betroffene nach wie vor eine verkürzte Lebenserwartung. Die aktuelle Herausforderung ist, die Zunahme von Diabetes zu stoppen. Notwendig ist mehr Verhältnisprävention.
Dietary aspects of the West Lithuanian people during the Late Roman and Early Migration periods with reference to household and funerary pottery
Authors: Bliujienė Audronė , Matulaitienė Ieva , Garbaras Andrius , Šapolaitė Justina , Ežerinskis Žilvinas , Ulozaitė Regina , Bračiulienė Ramunė
Published: September 2018

Die vorliegende Studie präsentiert die Ergebnisse einer integrierten interdisziplinären Untersuchung von Rückständen verkohlten organischen Materials bzw. Lebensmittelkrusten, die auf der inneren Keramikoberfläche haften und eine wertvolle Informationsquelle für die menschliche Ernährung darstellen. FTIR und Isotopenverhältnis-Massenspektrometrie wurden verwendet, um Haushaltsgefäßen und Miniaturtöpfen zu analysieren, die in der Zeit zwischen dem 3. und der Mitte des 5. Jahrhunderts in Westlitauen mit Toten als Beigaben in Vestattungen gelangten. Die δ13C-Isotopenanalyse zeigt einen beträchtlichen Unterschied zwischen den Rückständen von Haushalts- und Grabkeramik. Die δ13C-Isotopenverhältnisse in den Proben von Miniaturpotentiometern variieren von −28,0 ‰ bis −28,8 ‰. Isotopenwerte in einem relativ engen Bereich weisen darauf hin, dass in den Töpfen vorhandenes organisches Material ähnlichen Ursprungs war. δ13C-Isotopenverhältniswerte lassen vermuten, dass niedergelgte Miniaturtöpfe mit Bier aus Gerste und/oder Hafer gefüllt waren. Der δ15N-Isotopenwert (δ15N = 8,0 ‰) und die Carboxyl-Gruppe der C-O-Gruppe sowie die Polysaccharide zeigen das Vorhandensein von Proteinen in einigen der Miniaturtöpfen an, so dass außerdem angenommen werden kann, dass diese mit fermentiertem Milchgetränk gefüllt waren. Die Miniaturtöpfe wurden in den Bestattungen platziert und mit einer symbolischen Menge Bier oder fermentierten Getränken auf Milchbasis gefüllt (40/50 bis 100 ml). Das Kohlenstoffisotopenverhältnis der Haushaltsgefäße variierte von −23,9 ‰ bis −27,9 ‰, was auf eine auf Getreide vom Typ C3 basierende Ernährung hindeutet. Die aus organischen Rückständen gewonnenen δ15N-Werte liegen zwischen 3,1 ‰ und 9,9 ‰, was als Hinweis zu verstehen ist, dass Bestandteil der menschlichen Ernähung auch Pflanzen- und Allesfresser waren. Zusammenfassend zeigt die Analyse, dass die konsumierte Nahrung terrestrischen Ursprungs ist und aus der Landwirtschaft und der Tierzucht stammt.
A General Algorithm on the Natural Vibration Analysis of Composite Beams with Arbitrary Complex Interfaces
Authors: Li Botong , Liu Chein-Shan , Zhu Liangliang
Published: September 2018

In the present work, a novel mathematical scheme is developed to investigate the transverse natural vibration of composite materials with complex interfaces, which belong to the extreme mechanical category. Two kinds of interfaces, as examples, are used to demonstrate the mathematical scheme. One is the triangular wave interface that has non-differentiable points in its interface description function, and the other is the square wave interface that has discontinuity points in its interface description function. The non-differentiable points or the discontinuity points in the description interface functions can pose great challenge for traditional mathematical/mechanical treatments dealing with the vibration problem. Governing equations of the composites are derived according to the generalized Hamiltonian principle. For the piecewise interface function of the triangular/square wave interface, as it is not a continuous and derivative function, the Fourier expansion method with finite terms is adopted to approximate the piecewise function in the calculations. The proposed iterative scheme can quickly find the natural frequencies of the composites, with the help of the Rayleigh quotient and boundary functions. The obtained natural frequencies are compared with those obtained from the finite element method. The effects of interface geometrical properties (the amplitude and the number of waves of the interface) on the natural frequencies are investigated systematically, and we show a plausible way to tune the natural frequencies of the composites by changing the interface geometries.
Amplified Tunnelling from a Pair of Balanced Loss and Gain Cavities
Authors: Fang Yun-Tuan , Li Xiao-Xue
Published: September 2018

An exceptional point (EP) or pole is an extraordinary physical phenomenon of a parity-time (PT)-symmetric system. In this article, we design a compact pseudo-PT-symmetric system in which a gain resonator and a loss resonator are connected by a metal film. An amplified tunnelling is found with the coupling of the two resonators induced by the plasmonic resonance. Both EP and the pole effects can result in a jump in the transmittance and reflectance with nearly equal, large values. The pole effect can be achieved by adjusting either the gain coefficient or the incidence angle.
An Investigation on the Effects of Cellulose Nanofibrils on the Performance of Cement Paste and Concrete
Authors: Haddad Kolour Hosain , Ahmed Mohammed , Alyaseen Ethar , Landis Eric N.
Published: September 2018

Cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) have the potential to enhance cement and concrete properties because of the way they change both how water is distributed during mixing and how they modify the hydration process. In this work, the effects of CNFs on certain properties of cement paste and concrete were investigated. For the cement paste, workability, shrinkage properties, and compressive strength were investigated. In the cement paste study, 32 batches with variable CNF concentrations in 4 groups with different water-to-cement (w/c) ratios (0.35, 0.40, 0.45, and 0.50) were prepared and tested. Two rheological tests were performed; one used an ammeter to measure torque versus rotational speed, and a second used a standard flow table. Both tests showed a decrease in the workability of cement pastes that was due to the increase in CNF volume for all pastes, which suggests that CNF retains mix water in the fresh state. Thus, the water held in the CNF is not available during initial mixing of the cement paste. The results of the free shrinkage tests for all 32 cement pastes were collected for up to 90 days. Additional results showed that at a low w/c ratio (0.35), adding a small quantity of CNF (0.05 %) can reduce free shrinkage by 13 %. In compressive strength tests, a small dosage of CNF (0.05 %) improved compressive strength (up to 28 %), but higher dosages reduced strength. Results suggest that CNF has a good potential to be considered as a new natural plant-based internal curing agent in cement paste and concrete. For the concrete specimens, the primary focus was on workability effects and compressive strength. In the concrete study, twelve batches with different CNF volumes were prepared, and the corresponding slump results were measured. Results showed that to preserve the slump values, extra water content of 5–8 % should be added for every 0.1 % of CNF incorporated in the concrete mixture. Based on compressive strength tests, it has been shown that CNF is the weakest link in concrete microstructures and controls the compressive strength.
Experimental Research on Explosively Driven Crack Initiation and Propagation from Flaws of Various Geometry
Authors: Yang Renshu , Zuo Jinjing
Published: September 2018

The aim of this study is to explore the fracture dynamic properties of defect bodies under explosion loading by using the system of digital laser dynamic caustics test. The propagation of directional cracks and the fracture process of defect bodies have been observed by high-speed camera, as well as analyzed for the changing rules of speed and stress intensity factors when the directional crack was close to defect. Experimental results found that the defect has an inhibitory effect on the spreading of cracks when the detonation crack is extended toward the defect. With the decrease of the curvature of the elliptical defect, the energy accumulation rate decreases with the decrease of the curvature in the process of the generation of the cracks at the endpoints of wings, and its fracture toughness increases with the decrease of the curvature, and when the curvature is reduced to a certain extent, the wing crack cannot crack. The dynamic stress intensity factor of the crack tip has a positive correlation with the velocity of cracking, within a certain range. The fracture toughness of the crack at the time it begins is larger than during its spreading.
Crack Propagation of Rapid Setting Latex-Modified Concrete Pavement Slabs under Vibration
Authors: Jeong Je-Pyong , Kang Dae-Hung , Koh Chulseung
Published: September 2018

In recent years, rapid setting latex-modified concrete (RS-LMC), which allows vehicular traffic to flow after only 3 h of being placed, has been widely used as a material for improving bridge decks. As the restrictions for vehicular traffic when conducting repair work on pavements are difficult, bridge deck improvements using RS-LMC are exposed to vibrations during the initial curing stages, and cracks are generated because of the passing vehicles. To identify the characteristics of cracks caused by vibrations during the initial curing stage of RS-LMC, twelve specimens of this material were created and studied. Vibration tests were performed using a pavement shaking table, which simulates the vibration conditions of actual bridges. In this research, the main test variables were the amplitude of vibration and the latex-cement ratio (L/C). Test results revealed that the number and total cracks decreased with an increasing L/C, until 15 % L/C. Further, cracks occurred at a much lower strain rate than that stated by conventional design standards.