bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Examination of vehicle impact against stationary roadside objects
Authors: Karapetkov S , Dimitrov L , Uzuniv Hr , Dechkova S
Published: October 2019

In this paper, a model of a car impact against a fixed roadside objects/safety barrier is presented and discussed to solve a mixed task: to determine the pre-impact velocity of the vehicle center of mass taking into consideration the recorded post-impact final rest position. The principle of conservation of mechanical energy was applied, whereas the energy of the rigid barrier deformation was estimated by the finite element method/FEM for an elasto-plastic body. FEM analysis was performed by integrating SolidWorks - SW Simulation software, the output data being the deformation of the safety barrier in the three dimensional space subjected to limited boundary conditions. The post-impact car motion was modelled by a multiscale spatial model, well established in modern accident reconstruction. The findings of the study point out the precision and accuracy of the crash pattern revealed in the accident reconstruction and essential in clarifying the situation with appropriate real facts. Two cases involving real-world head-on accident collisions against a fixed flexible barrier and a tank body are considered, which exemplify the adopted method.
Optimal design of self-retaining full complement cylindrical roller bearings
Authors: Ursache C , Barili A , Tudose L , Tudose C
Published: October 2019

Due to the presence of the ribs on both sides of the outer ring, the self-retaining full complement (cageless) cylindrical roller bearings have a very interesting particularity: the outer ring must be heated to create enough room between the already mounted rollers to allow the last roller to be inserted in the row. In addition, after cooling down, the rollers must support each other with a certain small clearance. For this reason, the internal geometry of the bearing as well as the precision of execution are more than critical. On the other hand, one of the most important problem in rolling bearing design is to establish the optimal set of internal dimensions in order to obtain the maximum value of the basic radial dynamic load rating. Pursuing this goal, in this paper, the optimal design of certain self-retaining cylindrical roller bearing is performed by means of the PSO (Particle Swarm Optimization) algorithm. In this approach two design variables were considered (the roller diameter and the diameter of the inner ring raceway) and both geometrical and thermal constraints were taken into account. A study referring to the sensitivity of the design to the small variation of the geometrical parameters is also presented.
Experimental determination of plastic gear durability
Authors: Hlebanja G , Hriberšek M , Erjavec M , Kulovec S
Published: October 2019

There are many plastic materials (POM, PA66, PEEK, …) and material combinations available. The question is which combination is the correct one. It depends on many factors, like expected durability and price, means of production, e.g. injection moulding or cutting, lubrication, microstructure, fillers, etc. The available data bases and data sheets do not present conclusive results. So, it is of the utmost importance for a company to produce effective tests which could present correct results for each individual case.

The gear tooth flank profile could be also optimized. S-gear shape is characterized by a convex concave contact in meshing start and end areas. This implies improved properties in comparison to involute gears, like lower contact pressure, less sliding and lower frictional losses, stronger root and improved oil film when lubricated.

The paper presents some material properties for the combinations which were tested on the fatigue test benches, presents testing rigs, refers to experiments and discusses results.
An application of multicriteria optimization in selection of the two-speed two-carrier planetary gear trains
Authors: Troha S , Stefanović-Marinović J , Rončević B , Anđelković B , Milovančević M , Marković K
Published: October 2019

This paper outlines the optimum selection procedure for a two-speed planetary gear train with four external shafts based on two design and operational criteria: radial dimensions and efficiency. The paper outlines how to quickly determine the structure and important basic parameters of two-speed planetary gear trains that meet predefined transmission requirements. The procedure is followed by a numerical example in which the optimal two-speed planetary gear train is selected, defined by the teeth number of the central gears, modules and transmission ratios. The relevance of the presented results is reflected in the fact that these transmissions offer significant advantages in systems which require speed change under load.
Analysis of the influence of direction of helical teeth in the universal helical gear reducer on service life of the bearings that support the reducer shaft
Authors: Rackov M , Kuzmanović S , Knežević I , Čavić M , Penčić M , Stefanović D , Dragoi M V
Published: October 2019

The paper analyses the problems of the influence of direction of helical teeth in the universal helical gear reducer on service life of the bearings that support the reducer shaft, i.e. on the overall load carrying capacity of universal gear reducer. Directions of helical teeth for all gear units is adopted in that way that the overall axial force at the reducer shaft is lowest as possible, i.e. axial forces of a shaft are in counterbalance. It is a practice the same output gear pair is used within a helical gear reducer made in universal casing for two- and three-stage gear reducer. However, these gears are produced with different directions of helical teeth in order to obtain the lowest axial force on the fifth geared shaft. However, some gear reducer manufacturers, trying to simplify the production and reduce the number of manufactured components, produce the gears with the same helical teeth direction for both two- and three-stage gear reducers. In that way, they do not reduce the value of axial force on the fifth geared shaft in three-stage gear unit, but they make addition of axial forces that certainly affects the service life of the bearings and thus the overall load carrying capacity of the gearbox. Analysing the concrete case, this paper researches the justification of implementation this procedure.
Transmission characteristics of simple cycloid drive with stepped planets
Authors: Mackic T , Tica M , Šuba R
Published: October 2019

Simple cycloid drive is a type of high-sensitive gear train, by which it is possible to realize high transmission ratios in single-stage. Their advantage is also reflected in the compactness and simplicity of production, as well as achieving greater efficiency compared to conventional planetary drive train. In this paper, the basic equations for obtaining the transmission ratios, torque and efficiency of simple cycloid drive with stepped planets are shown. The dependence between basic transmission ratio and basic efficiency was also examined to find the optimum value of the transmission ratio and determine the point at which the self-locking occurs.
The use of the gas flow model to improve the design of the piston-rings-cylinder system of a diesel engine
Authors: Koszalka G
Published: October 2019

The article presents the results of simulation research aimed at assessing the impact of selected dimensions of the rings and piston on the ring-pack operation and developing proposals of changes that will improve its performance. The object of the research was a diesel engine for delivery vehicles. A mathematical model of the ring-pack developed by the author of this work was used for the research. The results have shown that with restrictions imposed by the engine manufacturer regarding the scope of modernization, it is possible to significantly reduce or even eliminate the reverse gas flow from the inter-ring space to the combustion chamber, but this must be done at the expense of increased blow-by. The effect of proposed changes on the axial displacement of the rings in the grooves has also been discussed.
Passenger car steering pull and drift reduction considering suspension tolerances
Authors: De Rosa M , De Felice A , Fragassa C , Sorrentino S
Published: October 2019

Pull to side, Steering wheel misalignment and Drift leeward are handling anomalies affecting passenger cars travelling on straight paths. They represent a cost factor in the automotive industry, occurring in small but not negligible percentage of the overall car production. The present contribution is aimed at understanding which are their causes in terms of suspension tolerances, and at reducing their extent, in the specific case of vehicles with front Double wishbone suspension and rear Five arms suspension. The most influential parameters on handling irregularities have been identified through a design of experiment analysis. Then, after performing a sensitivity analysis by multibody virtual modelling, a correlation with experimental data from presetting and wheel aligner benches has provided sufficient information for setting tolerance thresholds, able to keep the handling anomalies under study within acceptable bounds. Pull to side and Steering wheel misalignment have been found to be mainly related to the set up phase of wheel angles (front camber angles influencing Pull to side, front and rear toe angles influencing Steering wheel misalignment), while the main cause of Drift leeward has been identified with (rear) ride steer.
Synthesis of Bi2FexNbO7 films applied as a catalyst for hydrogen production using visible-light photo-electrolysis
Authors: Scharnberg A R A , Pavlovic A , Alves A K
Published: October 2019

The seek for feasible sustainable mobility alternatives is a major concern of the society nowadays. By its turn, the production of hydrogen represents one of the main lines of study on clean energy, since hydrogen presents the possibility of storage and association with other renewable energy sources. In this regard, photo-electrolysis is a promising option for hydrogen generation. This process optimizes the electrolysis of water by using external energy to increase the potential of a photo-electrode, which must be a material that absorbs sunlight (usually a semiconductor activated by solar radiation), promoting the generation of H2 at the cathode. Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is the most applied semiconductor in photocatalytic applications. However, the band gap of this material limits its activity only under UV light, disregarding about 90% of incident solar radiation. Researchers explore catalysts that can be activated under visible light, such as bismuth-based mixed oxide semiconductors, which have attracted interest because of their excellent stability, visible light absorption, and photocatalytic properties. This research aims to develop and characterize photo-anodes based on bismuth, niobium and iron oxides (Bi2FexNbO7), for production of hydrogen via photo-electrolysis of water. The films were produced by the sol-gel process and deposited under a conductive glass slide by dip-coating. The effect of the iron concentration was evaluated by UV-Vis spectroscopy and SEM analysis, in order to estimate its hydrogen production potential.
Space use by animals on the urban fringe: interactive effects of sex and personality
Authors: Wat Katie K Y , Herath Anushika P H M , Rus Adrian I , Banks Peter B , Mcarthur Clare
Published: October 2019

Personality traits shape individual perceptions of risks and rewards, and so, should affect how animals value and use their environment. Evidence is emerging that personality affects foraging, space use, and exploitation of novel environments such as urban habitat. But the influence of personality is also hypothesized to be sex-dependent when primary motivation for space use differs between sexes, as often occurs in polygynous species. We tested the influence of personality traits, interacting with sex, on space use by the polygynous common brushtail possum, Trichosurus vulpecula, in an urban-woodland boundary in Sydney, Australia. We quantified personality traits, including exploration, using behavioral assays in an artificial arena. We also GPS-tracked free-ranging individuals, and measured range size, core area: home range, and proportional urban range. We found that personality traits affected space use either as a main effect or, as predicted, an interaction with sex. More exploratory animals, regardless of sex, had higher core area: home range ratios and proportionally larger ranges within urban habitat. However, less exploratory females yet more exploratory males had larger ranges. Our findings provide new insight into movement ecology by demonstrating, for the first time, the sex-dependent influence of personality. The demonstrated influence of personality on urban use by possums also suggests a personality filter for wildlife, as populations transition into urban areas. Finally, as individuals at the interface between urban and natural habitat are also a conduit between the two, a corollary of our findings is that there may be personality-mediated spread of disease across this boundary.
A Gaussian copula approach for dynamic prediction of survival with a longitudinal biomarker
Authors: Suresh Krithika , Taylor Jeremy M G , Tsodikov Alexander
Published: October 2019

Dynamic prediction uses patient information collected during follow-up to produce individualized survival predictions at given time points beyond treatment or diagnosis. This allows clinicians to obtain updated predictions of a patient’s prognosis that can be used in making personalized treatment decisions. Two commonly used approaches for dynamic prediction are landmarking and joint modeling. Landmarking does not constitute a comprehensive probability model, and joint modeling often requires strong distributional assumptions and computationally intensive methods for estimation. We introduce an alternative approximate approach for dynamic prediction that aims to overcome the limitations of both methods while achieving good predictive performance. We separately specify the marker and failure time distributions conditional on surviving up to a prediction time of interest and use standard variable selection and goodness-of-fit techniques to identify the best-fitting models. Taking advantage of its analytic tractability and easy two-stage estimation, we use a Gaussian copula to link the marginal distributions smoothly at each prediction time with an association function. With simulation studies, we examine the proposed method’s performance. We illustrate its use for dynamic prediction in an application to predicting death for heart valve transplant patients using longitudinal left ventricular mass index information.
African Multi-Site 2-Year Neuropsychological Study of School-Age Children Perinatally Infected, Exposed, and Unexposed to Human Immunodeficiency Virus
Authors: Boivin Michael J , Chernoff Miriam , Fairlie Lee , Laughton Barbara , Zimmer Bonnie , Joyce Celeste , Barlow-Mosha Linda , Bwakura-Dangarembizi Mutsawashe , Vhembo Tichaona , Ratswana Mmule , Kamthunzi Portia , McCarthy Katie , Familiar-Lopez Itziar , Jean-Philippe Patrick , Coetzee Joan , Abrahams Nasreen , Gous Hermien , Violari Avy , Cotton Mark F , Palumbo Paul E
Published: October 2019

Background

Children living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are at neuropsychological risk for cognitive and motor dysfunction. However, few prospective, multi-site studies have evaluated neuropsychological outcomes longitudinally among perinatally infected African children who received early antiretroviral treatment (ART).

Methods

We enrolled 611 children aged 5 to 11 years at 6 sites (South Africa [3], Zimbabwe, Malawi, Uganda). Of these, there were 246 children living with HIV (HIV+) who were initiated on ART before 3 years of age in a prior clinical trial comparing nevirapine to lopinavir/ritonavir (International Maternal Pediatric Adolescent Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Clinical Trials [IMPAACT] P1060); 183 age-matched, exposed but uninfected (HEU) children; and 182 unexposed and uninfected (HUU) children. They were compared across 3 assessment time points (Weeks 0, 48, and 96) on cognitive ability (Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children, second edition [KABC-II]), attention/impulsivity (Tests of Variables of Attention [TOVA]), motor proficiency (Bruininks-Oseretsky Test, second edition [BOT-2]), and on the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF). The cohorts were compared using linear mixed models, adjusting for site, child’s age and sex, and selected personal/family control variables.

Results

The HIV+ cohort performed significantly worse than the HEU and HUU cohorts for all KABC-II, TOVA, and BOT-2 performance outcomes across all 3 time points (P values < .001). The HUU and HEU cohorts were comparable. For the KABC-II planning/reasoning subtests, the HIV+ children showed less improvement over time than the HUU and HEU groups. The groups did not differ significantly on the BRIEF.

Conclusions

Despite initiation of ART in early childhood and good viral suppression at the time of enrollment, the HIV+ group had poorer neuropsychological performance over time, with the gap progressively worsening in planning/reasoning. This can be debilitating for self-management in adolescence.
Geopolitics, Nationalism, and Foreign Direct Investment: Perceptions of the China Threat and American Public Attitudes toward Chinese FDI
Authors: Zeng Ka , Li Xiaojun
Published: October 2019

The rapid increase in recent years of Chinese outbound foreign direct investment (FDI) has prompted growing scholarly interest in its economic and political implications for host countries. However, relatively little attention has been paid to how concerns over the rise of China may shape public attitudes towards such investment. This article tests the link between threat perception and preferences for FDI in the United States. We argue that, due to heightened geopolitical concerns and nationalism, perceptions of the China threat negatively affect how the American public views the impact of incoming Chinese FDI. Using a survey experiment, we show that respondents are indeed less likely to support Chinese FDI when primed with information that highlights the security and economic threats posed by China than when they receive no such priming. Furthermore, causal mediation analyses reveal that the treatment effects of security and economic threats are mediated by respondents’ concerns about the challenges that Chinese FDI poses to national security as well as to American economy.
Mechanistic definition of the cardiovascular mPGES-1/COX-2/ADMA axis
Authors: Kirkby Nicholas S , Raouf Joan , Ahmetaj-Shala Blerina , Liu Bin , Mazi Sarah I , Edin Matthew L , Chambers Mark Geoffrey , Korotkova Marina , Wang Xiaomeng , Wahli Walter , Zeldin Darryl C , Nüsing Rolf , Zhou Yingbi , Jakobsson Per-Johan , Mitchell Jane A
Published: October 2019

Aims

Cardiovascular side effects caused by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which all inhibit cyclooxygenase (COX)-2, have prevented development of new drugs that target prostaglandins to treat inflammation and cancer. Microsomal prostaglandin E synthase-1 (mPGES-1) inhibitors have efficacy in the NSAID arena but their cardiovascular safety is not known. Our previous work identified asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), an inhibitor of endothelial nitric oxide synthase, as a potential biomarker of cardiovascular toxicity associated with blockade of COX-2. Here, we have used pharmacological tools and genetically modified mice to delineate mPGES-1 and COX-2 in the regulation of ADMA.

Methods and results

Inhibition of COX-2 but not mPGES-1 deletion resulted in increased plasma ADMA levels. mPGES-1 deletion but not COX-2 inhibition resulted in increased plasma prostacyclin levels. These differences were explained by distinct compartmentalization of COX-2 and mPGES-1 in the kidney. Data from prostanoid synthase/receptor knockout mice showed that the COX-2/ADMA axis is controlled by prostacyclin receptors (IP and PPARβ/δ) and the inhibitory PGE2 receptor EP4, but not other PGE2 receptors.

Conclusion

These data demonstrate that inhibition of mPGES-1 spares the renal COX-2/ADMA pathway and define mechanistically how COX-2 regulates ADMA.
Image fusion of integrating fluoroscopy into 3D computed tomography in guidance of left atrial appendage closure
Authors: Mo Bin-Feng , Wan Yi , Alimu Abudushalamu , Sun Jian , Zhang Peng-Pai , Yu Ying , Chen Mu , Li Wei , Wang Zhi-Quan , Wang Qun-Shan , Li Yi-Gang
Published: October 2019

Aims 

We evaluated the feasibility of left atrial appendage (LAA) closure guided by the image fusion of integrating fluoroscopy into 3D computed tomography (CT).

Methods and results 

A total of 117 consecutive patients who underwent LAA closure with or without the image fusion were matched (1:2). Each LAA closure step of the Image fusion group was guided by the preprocedure CT and image fusion, especially in the plan of LAA measurement and transseptal puncture. All patients were successfully implanted with a WATCHMAN closure device. Comparing the two groups, the mean number of recapture times and the number of devices per patient of the Image fusion group were significantly lower (0.4 ± 0.5 vs. 0.7 ± 0.8, P = 0.031 and 1.0 ± 0.2 vs. 1.1 ± 0.3, P = 0.027, respectively). The one-time successful deployment rate by the support of the image fusion was higher than in the control group (66.7% vs. 44.9%, P = 0.026). Each case of the Image fusion group was completely occluded with one transseptal puncture, while five of the Non-image fusion group required redo transseptal punctures. During the 45-day follow-up, both group cases presented occlusion efficiency and no major adverse cardiac events were observed.

Conclusion 

Image fusion technique integrating fluoroscopy into the 3D CT is safe and feasible which can be easily incorporated into the procedural work-flow of percutaneous LAA closure. The fusion image can play an important alternative role in the plan of LAA measurement and transseptal puncture site for improving the LAA closure procedure.
Relapse of aortopulmonary window 41 years after patch closure
Authors: Fukumoto Yuichiro , Hosoba Soh , Takagi Sho , Goto Yoshihiro
Published: October 2019

In this study, we describe a rare case of a 45-year-old man with a recurrence of aortopulmonary window (APW) 41 years after the initial patch closure for an APW at the age of 4. He presented with persistent cough and exertional dyspnoea. Imagings revealed a recurrence of APW, ascending aorta saccular aneurysm, and severe mitral and tricuspid regurgitation. Re-patch closure, ascending aortic replacement, and mitral and tricuspid annuloplasties were performed, followed by an uneventful postoperative course. The relapse of APW in the remote postoperative period is extremely rare.
Understanding heteronormativity in ELT textbooks: a practical taxonomy
Authors: Moore Ashley R
Published: October 2019

Heteronormativity is a form of oppressive ideology in which heterosexuality is assumed to be the normal, and often only, pattern of human romantic relationships. In the ELT classroom it can be damaging to students who fall outside of heterosexuality’s narrow confines and impoverishes learning for all students. In this article, I argue that heteronormativity’s persistence in ELT textbooks is a product of its various forms, some more insidious than others, and companies pandering to conservative markets in an increasingly homogeneous, globalized publishing economy. Worse, attempts to counter heteronormativity using essentialized representations of non-heterosexual groups may ultimately perpetuate it. Building on the work of others who have examined its manifestation in ELT textbooks, I present a taxonomy of five different forms of representational heteronormativity. I argue that this taxonomy can be used by materials writers, curriculum planners, and classroom teachers to guide their practice away from heteronormativity, towards more critically inclusive materials.
Forecasting the 2014 West African Ebola Outbreak
Authors: Carias Cristina , O’Hagan Justin J , Gambhir Manoj , Kahn Emily B , Swerdlow David L , Meltzer Martin I
Published: October 2019

In 2014–2015, a large Ebola outbreak afflicted Liberia, Guinea, and Sierra Leone. We performed a systematic review of 26 manuscripts, published between 2014 and April 2015, that forecasted the West African Ebola outbreak while it was occurring, and we derived implications for how results could be interpreted by policymakers. Forecasted case counts varied widely. An important determinant of forecast accuracy for case counts was how far into the future predictions were made. Generally, forecasts for less than 2 months into the future tended to be more accurate than those made for more than 10 weeks into the future. The exceptions were parsimonious statistical models in which the decay of the rate of spread of the pathogen among susceptible individuals was dealt with explicitly. The most important lessons for policymakers regarding future outbreaks, when using similar modeling results, are: 1) uncertainty of forecasts will be greater in the beginning of the outbreak; 2) when data are limited, forecasts produced by models designed to inform specific decisions should be used complementarily for robust decision-making (e.g., 2 statistical models produced the most reliable case-counts forecasts for the studied Ebola outbreak but did not enable understanding of interventions’ impact, whereas several compartmental models could estimate interventions’ impact but required unavailable data); and 3) timely collection of essential data is necessary for optimal model use.
Quorum sensing and the anaerobic regulator (ANR) control polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) production inPseudomonas chlororaphisPA23
Authors: Mohanan Nisha , Gislason April , Sharma Parveen K , Ghergab Akrm , Plouffe Jocelyn , Levin David B , de Kievit Teresa
Published: October 2019

Pseudomonas chlororaphis PA23 is a biocontrol agent that, in addition to producing antifungal compounds, synthesizes polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) polymers as a carbon and energy sink. Quorum sensing (QS) and the anaerobic regulator (ANR) are required for PA23-mediated fungal suppression; however, the role of these regulators in PHA production is unknown. Strains lacking either QS or ANR accumulated less PHA polymers when propagated on Ramsay's minimal medium (RMM) with glucose or octanoate as the carbon source. In the acyl-homoserine lactone (AHL)-deficient background, all six of the genes in the pha locus (phaC1, phaC2, phaZ, phaD, phaF, phaI) showed reduced expression in RMM glucose, and all except phaC2 were repressed in RMM octanoate. Although changes in gene activity were observed in the anr mutant, they were less pronounced. Analysis of the promoter regions for QS- and ANR-binding consensus sequences revealed putative phzboxes upstream of phaZ and phaI, but no anr boxes were identified. Our findings indicate that altered pha gene expression likely contributes to the lower PHA accumulation in the QS- and ANR-deficient strains, which may be in part indirectly mediated. This study is the first to show that mcl-PHA production is under QS and ANR control.
Exploring the hydrolytic potential of cultured halophilic bacteria isolated from the Atacama Desert
Authors: Ruginescu Robert , Purcărea Cristina , Dorador Cristina , Lavin Paris , Cojoc Roxana , Neagu Simona , Lucaci Ioana , Enache Mădălin
Published: October 2019

Considering that most industrial processes are carried out under harsh physicochemical conditions, which would inactivate enzymes from commonly isolated mesophilic organisms, current studies are geared toward the identification of extremophilic microorganisms producing enzymes resistant to extreme salt concentrations, temperature and pH. Among the extremophiles, halophilic microorganisms are an important source of salt-tolerant enzymes that can be used in varying biotechnological applications. In this context, the aim of the present work was to isolate and identify halophiles producing hydrolases from the Atacama Desert, one of the harshest environments on Earth. Isolates were recovered from halite samples and screened for the presence of seven different hydrolase activities (amylase, caseinase, gelatinase, lipase, pectinase, cellulase and inulinase) using agar plate-based assays. From a total of 23 halophilic bacterial isolates, most showed lipolytic (19 strains) and pectinolytic (11 strains) activities. The molecular identification of eight selected isolates showed a strong similarity to members of the Halomonas and Idiomarina genera. Therefore, the present study represents a preliminary, but essential, step to identify novel biological sources of extremozymes in an environment once thought to be devoid of life.
Potential use of Clerodendrum capitatum extracts and its formulation for control of three major stored product beetles
Authors: Adesina Jacobs Mobolade , Raghavendra Anjanappa , Rajashekar Yallappa , Ofuya Thomas Inomisan
Published: October 2019

Objective

Insecticidal activity of Clerodendrum capitatum extracts against the stored product insect pest, Sitophilus oryzae (L.), Rhyzopertha dominica (F.), and Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) were investigated.

Materials and Methods

Hundred grams of C. capitatum powder was sequentially extracted with a series of solvents of increasing polarity in a Soxhlet apparatus and the extracts were concentrated on rotary evaporator to make it solvent free and the residue dissolved in a known volume of methanol and the solution was assayed for insecticidal activity by the fumigant toxicity. Hexane extract which showed maximum activity was selected for the preparation of herbal formulation and for its insecticidal properties and phytotoxicity. The herbal formulation obtained from leaves of C. capitatum was investigated by GCMS and GC/FID.

Results

Clerodendrum capitatum ethyl extract had a very strong repellent activity to adults of all three major stored grain insects and was significantly repellent at a 1.58 mg/cm2. The hexane extract (oil) had high fumigant activity with LC50 values in the range between 25 and 32 µg/L. A total of 14 components representing 97.8% of the formulation were identified and the main compounds in the formulation were found to be 2-Heptanone, 3-methyl (33.9 %) and Hexahydrofarnesyl acetone (25.3%) followed by 3-Dodecen-1-al (10.2%) and 8-Methyl-1-undecene (4.9%). Further, herbal formulation was found to be highly toxic to mixed age cultures of all three major stored grain insect pests which recorded 80%–90% mortality at dose of 200 µg/L in 24 h exposure, where as 100% mortality achieved at dose of 200 µg/L in 72 h exposure, respectively.

Conclusion

The results indicate that extracts and formulation of C. capitatum has the potential to be developed in to a natural insecticide or repellent for controlling of stored product beetles.
Ten-Year Trajectories of Alcohol Consumption in Older Adult New Zealanders
Authors: Szabó Ágnes , Towers Andy , Sheridan Janie , Newcombe David
Published: October 2019

Objectives

Older adults are often treated as a homogeneous drinking group, but research suggests that they engage with alcohol in various ways, ranging from abstention to heavy drinking. The study aimed to (i) identify subgroups of older adults based on changes in frequency and quantity of alcohol use over 10 years and (ii) examine co-occurring changes in mental and physical health.

Method

Data were collected biennially between 2006 and 2016 from 2,632 New Zealanders (55–70 years old at baseline). Latent class growth analysis was performed to identify trajectories of alcohol use. Co-occurring changes in physical and mental health were examined using latent growth curve analysis.

Results

Five drinking profiles emerged: (i) infrequent, low-quantity consumers; (ii) highly frequent, low-quantity consumers; (iii) moderately frequent, high-quantity consumers; (iv) moderately frequent, low-quantity consumers; and (v) highly frequent, high-quantity consumers. Drinking trajectories demonstrated no change or slight declines in frequency and quantity over time. Frequent and moderately frequent, high-quantity drinking was more prevalent among men, younger participants, and active smokers. Moderately frequent, heavy drinkers were in very poor health. Frequent and moderately frequent, low-quantity drinking was associated with better health and economic well-being. Infrequent, low-quantity consumers were more likely to be women and in poor health.

Discussion

The five drinking profiles indicate that older adults engage with alcohol in diverse ways. Two of these patterns indicated potentially hazardous use, which highlights the need for screening and intervention in this age group.
Magmatic differentiation and convective stirring of the mantle in early planets 2: Effects of the properties of mantle materials
Authors: Ogawa Masaki
Published: October 2019

Magmatism and mantle convection closely couple with each other, when the mantle is hot and magmatism is extensive. Here, I explore dynamics of the coupled system for a planet of the Earth's size based on a two-dimensional numerical model. Magmatism occurs as a permeable flow of basaltic magma generated by decompression melting through matrix, while mantle convection is driven by thermal, compositional, and melt-buoyancy as well as the volume change of matrix caused by magma-migration. The viscosity of matrix strongly depends on temperature. Basaltic solid materials are denser than the average mantle materials except at the top of the lower mantle and in the crust. A positive feedback between magmatism and mantle convection caused by melt-buoyancy (the MMUb feedback) dominates mantle dynamics, when the Rayleigh number Ra is higher than a threshold RMMUb, around 107: buoyancy of magma generated by mantle upwelling flow drives the upwelling flow itself. The feedback reinforces convective stirring of the mantle and also allows the buoyancy of basaltic materials at the top of the lower mantle to strongly impede mass exchange between the upper and lower mantles. As a consequence, an extensive magmatism can only moderately differentiate the mantle at Ra > RMMUb. At Ra < RMMUb, another type of positive feedback is important (the MMUc feedback): volume change of matrix caused by magma-migration drives the mantle upwelling flow that generates the magma. This feedback does not noticeably enhance convective stirring and hence enhances differentiation of the mantle by magmatism. I also calculated several cases where melt is denser than matrix at the base of the upper mantle and found that a compositional discontinuity develops along the top of the lower mantle to make the mantle layered, when Ra < RMMUb. In the early Earth where magmatism was probably extensive, the MMUb feedback is most likely to have operated to keep the mantle rather homogeneous despite differentiation by the magmatism.
Aortic dissection reconsidered: type, entry site, malperfusion classification adding clarity and enabling outcome prediction
Authors: Sievers Hans-Hinrich , Rylski Bartosz , Czerny Martin , Baier Anna L M , Kreibich Maximilian , Siepe Matthias , Beyersdorf Friedhelm
Published: October 2019

OBJECTIVES

Aortic dissection is complex. Imaging and treatment modalities are evolving, demanding a more differentiated but pragmatic dissection classification. Our goal was to provide a new practical classification system including Type of dissection, location of the tear of the primary Entry and Malperfusion (TEM).

METHODS

We extended the Stanford dissection classification (A and B) by adding non-A non-B aortic dissection, the location of the primary entry tear (E) and malperfusion (M). A 0 was added if the primary entry tear was not visible; 1, if it was in the ascending aorta; 2, if it was in the arch; and 3, if it was in the descending aorta (E0, E1, E2, E3). We added 0 if malperfusion was absent; 1, if coronary arteries; 2, if supra-aortic vessels; and 3, if visceral/renal and/or a lower extremity was affected (M0, M1, M2, M3). Plus (+) was added if malperfusion was clinically present and minus (−) if it was a radiological finding.

RESULTS

The new classification system was analysed in 357 patients retrospectively; distribution was 59%, 31% and 10% for A, B and non-A non-B dissections. The in-hospital mortality rate was 16%, 5% and 8% (P = 0.01). Postoperative stroke occurred in 14%, 1% and 3% (P < 0.001). The in-hospital mortality rate was 22%, 14%, 40% and 0% in A E0, E1, E2 and E3 (P = 0.023), respectively. Two years after the onset of dissection, the lowest survival rate was observed in A, followed by non-A non-B and B (83 ± 3% vs 88 ± 6% vs 93 ± 3%; P = 0.019).

CONCLUSIONS

The new practical TEM aortic dissection classification system adds clarity regarding the extent of the disease process, enhances awareness of the disease mechanism, aids in decision-making regarding the extent of repair and helps in anticipating outcome.
Electroconvulsive seizures induce autophagy by activating the AMPK signaling pathway in the rat frontal cortex
Authors: Kim Se Hyun , Yu Hyun Sook , Park Soyoung , Park Hong Geun , Ahn Yong Min , Kang Ung Gu , Kim Yong Sik
Published: October 2019

Background

It is uncertain how electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)-induced generalized seizures exert their potent therapeutic effects on various neuropsychiatric disorders. Adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) plays a major role in maintaining metabolic homeostasis, and activates autophagic processes via unc-51-like kinase (ULK1). Evidence supports the involvement of autophagy system in the action mechanisms of antidepressants and antipsychotics. The effect of ECT on autophagy-related signaling requires further clarification.

Methods

The effect of electroconvulsive seizure (ECS) on autophagy, and its association with the AMPK signaling pathway, were investigated in the rat frontal cortex. ECS was provided once per day for 10 days (E10X), and compound C or 3-methyadenine was administered through an intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) cannula. Molecular changes were analyzed with immunoblot, immunohistochemistry, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analyses.

Results

E10X increased p-Thr172-AMPKα immunoreactivity in rat frontal cortex neurons. E10X increased phosphorylation of upstream effectors of AMPK, such as LKB1, CaMKK, and TAK1, and of its substrates, ACC, HMGR, and GABABR2. E10X also increased p-Ser317-ULK1 immunoreactivity. At the same time, LC3-II and ATG5–ATG12 conjugate immunoreactivity increased, indicating activation of autophagy. An i.c.v injection of the AMPK inhibitor compound C attenuated the ECS-induced increase in ULK1 phosphorylation, as well as the protein levels of LC3-II and Atg5–Atg12 conjugate. TEM clearly showed an increased number of autophagosomes in the rat frontal cortex after E10X, which was reduced by i.c.v treatment with the autophagy inhibitor 3-methyadenine and compound C.

Conclusions

Repeated ECS treatments activated in vivo autophagy in the rat frontal cortex through the AMPK signaling pathway.
A Novel Field-Deployable Method for Sequencing and Analyses of Henipavirus Genomes From Complex Samples on the MinION Platform
Authors: Yinda Claude Kwe , Seifert Stephanie N , Macmenamin Philip , van Doremalen Neeltje , Kim Lewis , Bushmaker Trenton , de Wit Emmie , Quinones Mariam , Munster Vincent J
Published: October 2019

Viruses in the genus Henipavirus encompass 2 highly pathogenic emerging zoonotic pathogens, Hendra virus (HeV) and Nipah virus (NiV). Despite the impact on human health, there is currently limited full-genome sequence information available for henipaviruses. This lack of full-length genomes hampers our ability to understand the molecular drivers of henipavirus emergence. Furthermore, rapidly deployable viral genome sequencing can be an integral part of outbreak response and epidemiological investigations to study transmission chains. In this study, we describe the development of a reverse-transcription, long-range polymerase chain reaction (LRPCR) assay for efficient genome amplification of NiV, HeV, and a related non-pathogenic henipavirus, Cedar virus (CedPV). We then demonstrated the utility of our method by amplifying partial viral genomes from 6 HeV-infected tissue samples from Syrian hamsters and 4 tissue samples from a NiV-infected African green monkey with viral loads as low as 52 genome copies/mg. We subsequently sequenced the amplified genomes on the portable Oxford Nanopore MinION platform and analyzed the data using a newly developed field-deployable bioinformatic pipeline. Our LRPCR assay allows amplification and sequencing of 2 or 4 amplicons in semi-nested reactions. Coupled with an easy-to-use bioinformatics pipeline, this method is particularly useful in the field during outbreaks in resource-poor environments.
Revision of the New World Scentless Plant Bug Genus Niesthrea (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Rhopalidae), with Descriptions of Six New Species and a Key to the Species
Authors: Melo María Cecilia , Henry Thomas J
Published: October 2019

The scentless plant bug genus Niesthrea Spinola, 1837 (Rhopalinae, Niesthreini) is revised. Fourteen previously described species are diagnosed; Niesthrea ashlocki Froeschner, 1989 and Niesthrea remediana Grillo and Alayo, 1978 (revised synonymy) are synonymized under Niesthrea flava Grillo and Alayo, 1978; Niesthrea parasidae Grillo and Alayo, 1978 is synonymized under Niesthrea sidae (Fabricius, 1794); Niesthrea pictipes casinii Göllner-Scheiding, 1984 is elevated to species status; a neotype is designated for Corizus campoi Porter; and the six new species Niesthrea choprai sp. nov. from Argentina and Peru, Niesthrea conicoloba sp. nov. from Argentina, Niesthrea lateroloba sp. nov. from Peru, Niesthrea parvaloba sp. nov. from Bolivia, Niesthrea rostrata sp. nov. from Colombia and Ecuador, and Niesthrea truncata sp. nov. from Brazil and Colombia are described. A color habitus illustration of N. flava, color digital images of all adults and male genitalia, and an identification key to the 20 currently known species, based primarily on male genitalia, are provided to help distinguish species. Host plants and biogeography are documented.
Integrating primary and secondary care to optimize hepatitis C treatment: development and evaluation of a multidisciplinary educational Masterclass series
Authors: McCombe Geoff , Almaazmi Bashayer , Cullen Walter , Lambert John S , Avramovic Gordana , Murphy Carol , O’Connor Mairead , Perry Nicola , Ianache Irina , Lazar Stefan , McHugh Tina , Surey Julian , Macías Juan , Vickerman Peter , Oprea Cristiana
Published: October 2019

Background

It is increasingly being recognized that the elimination of HCV requires a multidisciplinary approach and effective cooperation between primary and secondary care.

Objectives

As part of a project (HepCare Europe) to integrate primary and secondary care for patients at risk of or infected with HCV, we developed a multidisciplinary educational Masterclass series for healthcare professionals (HCPs) working in primary care in Dublin and Bucharest. This article aims to describe and evaluate the series and examine how this model might be implemented into practice.

Methods

GPs and other HCPs working in primary care, addiction treatment services and NGOs were invited to eight 1 day symposia (HCV Masterclass series), examining the burden and management of HCV in key populations. Peer-support sessions were also conducted, to give people affected by HCV and community-based organizations working with those directly affected, an update on the latest developments in HCV treatment.

Results

One hundred percent of participants ‘strongly agreed’ or ‘agreed’ that the Masterclass helped them to appreciate the role of integrated services in ‘the management of patients with HCV’. One hundred percent of participants indicated the importance of a ‘designated nurse to liaise with hospital services’. An improvement of knowledge regarding HCV management of patients with high-risk behaviour was registered at the end of the course.

Conclusions

Integrated approaches to healthcare and improving the knowledge of HCPs and patients of the latest developments in HCV treatment are very important strategies that can enhance the HCV care pathway and treatment outcomes.
For Whom the Gamer Trolls: A Study of Trolling Interactions in the Online Gaming Context
Authors: Cook Christine , Conijn Rianne , Schaafsma Juliette , Antheunis Marjolijn
Published: October 2019

The present study aimed to expand our understanding of trolling interactions by examining 10,025 community-reported trolling incidents in the online game League of Legends to determine what characterizes messages sent by trolls, their teammates, and their opponents. To do this, we used a novel method blending content analysis and topic modelling. Contrary to extant literature, our study of complete trolling interactions found striking similarities between teammates’ and trolls’ chats, with both displaying the negative traits (e.g., exclusionary language) typically attributed to trolls. Findings also suggest that the transition from victim to perpetrator can occur extremely rapidly. This has important implications for the labelling of actors in trolling interactions, for future studies into the trolling cycle, and for theories of computer-mediated communication.
CHINESE PUZZLE: ANATOMY OF THE (INVISIBLE) BELT AND ROAD INVESTMENT TREATY1
Authors: Chaisse Julien , Kirkwood Jamieson
Published: October 2019

This article makes a major contribution to the emerging Belt and Road Initiative scholarship (and international economic law) by highlighting that (i) China’s existing investment treaty network along the Belt and Road is dated, (ii) many or most of those treaties include Most Favored Nation provisions, (iii) these treaties have hitherto been subject to a static three generations analysis which does not reflect the reality, and (iv) there is significant authority supporting the use of the Most Favoured Nation provisions by Chinese investors to upgrade the Belt and Road Initiative investment treaty network. This article demonstrates that an investment treaty for the Belt and Road Initiative already exists via the Most Favored Nation clause present in China’s bilateral investment treaties. Moreover, the article further identifies that China’s treaty network is unique (by being so extensive) and assesses the potential for investment claims in light of Belt and Road Initiative jurisdictions past involvements in Investor–State Dispute Settlement, and by doing so, the article sheds a new light on the predicted increased use of such procedure by Chinese investors.
Neuropsychiatric Implications of Chronic Lead Exposure
Authors: Cassleman Kristi L , Dorrance Kevin A , Todd Andrew C
Published: October 2019

There is growing awareness of chronic exposures to lead, with recent evidence indicating that there is an increased risk of a range of health effects that include cardiovascular, kidney, cognitive, and premature mortality, at blood levels lower than what was previously considered elevated. This report describes the case of a 42-year-old active duty officer with a history of anxiety, cognitive impairment, and paroxysmal hypertensive episodes associated with elevated body burdens of lead as measured in bone, while having low or unremarkable blood level measurements. Challenges related to work-up, treatments, and outcomes are discussed. An elevated body burden of lead may contribute to increased irritability, fatigue, and anxiety, mimicking posttraumatic stress disorder and other primary psychiatric conditions. This presentation highlights the need for an increased index of suspicion of lead poisoning in both medical and psychiatric care, particularly in military populations.