bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microstructural study of plasma sprayed
hydroxyapatite coatings
Authors: Kowalski S. , Belka R. , Żórawski W. , Sztorc M. , Góral A. , Makrenek M.
Published: January 2018

Purpose: The aim of this study is to present microstructure and mechanical properties of
hydroxyapatite coatings sprayed by means novel plasma system with axially injection of powder.
Design/methodology/approach: Coatings were deposited with Axial III plasma
spraying system and examined by SEM, XRD and by a nanoindentation technique
(Nanovea) with a Berkovitz indenter. Surface of coatings was analysed by means of a
Talysurf CCI-Lite non-contact 3D profiler.
Findings: This study shows the microstructure and mechanical properties of hydroxyapatite
coatings (HA) obtained by plasma spraying from the powder with a cauliflower-like high
porous structure consisting of nanograins with dimension below 100 nm. The cross-section
of plasma sprayed HA coating reveals lamellar structure containing pores in the interior
of the lamellae. Moreover, between lamellae, some microcracks were detected. Hardness
and elastic modulus measured by nanoindentation were found to be around 0.085 and
6.82 GPa respectively, what was comparable with HA coatings sprayed by a modified cold
spray system. Both XRD patterns are practically identical, so no new phases were created
in hydroxyapatite coating in comparison with feedstock powder during the spray process.
High values of a geometry of HA coating; maximum peak height, maximum pit height and
maximum height confirmed significant roughening of a surface, which is a result of the
interaction of melted powder grains with the surfaces during the plasma spraying.
Research limitations/implications: Obtained properties of coatings will be the base
for comparison with suspension plasma sprayed coatings.
Practical implications: Hydroxyapatite coatings deposited by means novel plasma
system are designated for spraying implants.
Originality/value: Properties of hydroxyapatite coatings plasma sprayed with novel axially
injection of powder.
Lighting setting features of opto-electronic
measuring system for controlling adhesive
joints optical components
Authors: Markina O.M.
Published: January 2018

Purpose: The purpose of this article is to study the features of setting and selecting the
source of illumination of the optoelectronic measuring system for the control of adhesive
joints of optical parts.
Design/methodology/approach: The research and analysis of the lighting characteristics
of halogen and LED lamps, used as a source of illumination in the measuring system, was
carried out.
Findings: In the course of experimental studies, the sensitivity and resolution of fixing
defects of adhesive joints of optical parts were increased and the measurement error was
reduced from 10 ± 1.2 microns to 10 ± 0.3 microns.
Research limitations/implications: The limitations of the accuracy of the measurement
are 10 ± 0.3 microns of adhesive defects, since the studies were conducted on separate
samples of glues that did not cover all adhesives for the connection of optical surfaces
and the thickness of glass surfaces was 1 mm and 2 mm.
Practical implications: With the application of the lighting system approach described in
the article, it is possible to improve any optoelectronic measuring system, thereby increasing
the accuracy of the measurement.
Originality/value: The originality of the results of the article is the experimental data
of the studies of light-technical characteristics of the halogen lamp, which is used in the
optoelectronic measuring system.
Semi-continuous caster for plate
Authors: Haga T. , Miyazaki K.
Published: January 2018

Purpose: Development of a semi-continuous caster that can cast a single plate and
a clad plate of Al-40%Sn-1%Cu alloy used for sliding bearings.
Design/methodology/approach: A semi-continuous caster to cast a single plate and
a clad plate directly from molten metal was designed and assembled. The cast single
plate has a thickness ranging from 10 mm to 30 mm, a width of 400 mm, and a length of
500 mm to 1,000 mm. The cast clad plate has a thickness ranging from 10 mm to 30 mm,
a width of 50 mm, and a length of 300 mm.
Findings: The semi-continuous caster successfully produced both a single plate and a
clad plate of Al-40%Sn-1%Cu alloy. Influence of casting conditions on the properties of
the plate, including the thickness, porosity, and surface quality were investigated in the
single plate casting. The mixing and diffusion of the alloy elements at the interface was
also investigated in the clad plate casting.
Research limitations/implications: The cast Al-40%Sn-1%Cu alloy plate has not
yet been tested as a sliding bearing material, so the efficacy of the material still requires
investigation.
Practical implications: The semi-continuous caster described in this paper enables the
“small lot” production made from single and clad plates of aluminium alloy.
Originality/value: Development of a semi-continuous caster that can cast both single
and clad plates of aluminium alloy. Investigation of the relationship between the casting
conditions and plate quality.
Study on homogeneity and repeatability
of single-piece flow carburizing system
Authors: Madej A. , Brewka A. , Wołowiec-Korecka E.
Published: January 2018

Purpose: The purpose of this paper was to determine the homogeneity and replicability of
carburized layers obtained by a continuous single-piece flow method.
Design/methodology/approach: A series of 100 gears was carburized under low
pressure atmosphere using the single-piece flow method. The microstructures of the
obtained carbon layers were investigated. Hardness penetration pattern and carbon
concentration profiles were tested.
Findings: The findings have shown the validity/correctness of the microstructures of the
carburized layers obtained by the single-piece flow method. It has been proved that the
carbon layer in every gear is uniform, what confirms that each element is affected by the
same process conditions and the gears in the whole series can be precisely reproduced.
Research limitations/implications: The short-pulse low-pressure carburizing technology
needs further investigation to understand its all mechanisms fully.
Practical implications: The single-piece flow method provides the uniform and
reproducible carburized layers with the precision magnitude exceeding the abilities of
currently used thermo-chemical furnaces. When applying the method it is possible to obtain
a uniform carburized case in every single gear from the whole series of elements subjected
to the process. Optimized configuration of process parameters and carbon-carrying mixture
allows to meet the high expectations of a modern and future industry, what is most crucial
in exploiting carburized steel gears.
Originality/value: The applicability of the LPC single-piece flow method to a demanding
mass production has been verified. The statistical validity of research results of the whole
manufactured series of gears is being performed for the first time.
Water Reuse Reclaim Water for Public Water Supplies
Authors: Gerling Alex
Published: January 2018

When properly treated to appropriate standards, high‐quality reclaimed wastewater can be a sustainable supplement to any water utility's supply portfolio. Reclaiming water from wastewater systems for irrigation, industrial, ecological, and municipal uses has been successful in many places and may hold promise for many others.
Boost Your Sludge and Membrane System Pumps
Authors: Sarrouh Sami
Published: January 2018

Sludge and membrane applications differ from typical water and wastewater applications, often requiring special pump and sizing considerations. Evaluate these systems' key operational factors to secure reliability and control energy consumption.
Förord
Authors: Lindgren Birgitta
Published: January 2018

[Der findes ikke resumé til denne artikel]
Klarspråksarbetet i Sverige
Authors: Ehrenberg-Sundin Barbro
Published: January 2018

[Der findes ikke resumé til denne artikel.]
Språkets roll i lagberedningen: Hur forska i lagtextformulering?
Authors: Kankaanpää Salli , Piehl Aino , Räsänen Matti
Published: January 2018

Vilka diskussioner för lagberedarna kring språket i författningstexter? Vilka ändringsförslag godkänner de och vilka förkastar de? I vilken fas av beredningen stabiliseras språket i författningstexterna? Institutet för de inhemska språken har sökt svar på dessa frågor i ett forsknings- och språkvårdsprojekt där justitieministeriet samtidigt fått hjälp med språket i bostadsaktiebolagslagen, en lag som är viktig för vanliga medborgare.
Nya medier, nya utmaningar – om klarspråksarbete i e-förvaltningens tid
Authors: Höög Catharina Nyström
Published: January 2018

[Der findes ikke resumé til denne artikel.]
Komplext och komplicerat? Om myndigheters webbaserade pensionsinformation
Authors: Ohlsson Claes
Published: January 2018

[Der findes ikke resumé til denne artikel.]
Skattemyndigheter på webben – dubbel mottagaranpassning eller ingen alls?
Authors: Koskela Merja
Published: January 2018

Der findes ikke resumé til denne artikel.
Efter festen – om kriterier for og effekter af klarsprogsarbejde
Authors: Kjærgaard Anne
Published: January 2018

Der findes ikke resumé til denne artikel.
Makt og mas – motivasjon og metoder
Authors: Staubo Inger
Published: January 2018

Der findes ikke resumé til denne artikel.
Språkbruk – eit spørsmål om demokrati
Authors: Riise Grete
Published: January 2018

Der findes ikke resumé til denne artikel.
Ord er taknemmelige
Authors: Stærbo Claus
Published: January 2018

Der findes ikke resumé til denne artikel.
Det ska böjas i tid det som krokigt ska bli. Några reflektioner från nordiska klarspråkskonferensen
Authors: Vidjeskog Sonja
Published: January 2018

Der findes ikke resumé til denne artikel.
Mot bättre service – utveckling av Folkpensionsanstaltens e-tjänster
Authors: Turunen Marjukka
Published: January 2018

In Finnish Social Insurance Institution (Kela) all the operational IT-systems and network services will be renewed during the next ten years. The renewal project is part of Kela´s strategy. What customers need, is the key to all the renewal projects because customers play an important role in developing the services. In the Arkki project the focus is mainly on network services. Kela is investing in its network service channel because these services have been increasingly popular amongst customers. Through the internet services customers can e.g., check their personal data on benefits, apply for benefits and calculate the amounts of benefits. Students, families and unemployed are the biggest customer groups that use Kela´s internet services. Customers have given Kela positive feedback for the internet services.
En vegg av tekst
Authors: Furu Iris
Published: January 2018

Iris Furu presents findings from her master’s thesis in Rhetoric and Communication in which she studies the language used in different kinds of informing texts and forms from NAV, the Norwegian Labour and Welfare Administration. Expecting parents in Norway can apply for parental benefits from NAV by filling out a specific form. What makes these forms the way they are, and do Norwegian parents understand how to fill them out? Through qualitative interviews with both NAV employees and Norwegian citizens, Furu has provided a closer look into the communication processes between the state and the citizens in Norway. By looking at the statements from both sender and recipient she has been able to show what happens when the communication between the system and the user is successful – and when it fails.
Islandsk klarsprog som forskningsområde
Authors: Kristinsson Ari Páll
Published: January 2018

The paper discusses Icelandic plain language as a research field. The conclusion is that until recently, Icelandic linguists did not find it worthwhile to prioritize research into plain language. The author suggests that this lack of interest can be explained by the ideology that plain language use is inherently entailed by Iceland’s prevailing lexical purism, deep-rooted respect for ’Saga style’ concise sentences, traditional grammar, and ancient idioms. Consequently, the general perception has been that there is no particular need for plain language efforts. Recent Icelandic language legislation (2011) challenges this traditional indifference towards plain language research, as the law stipulates that the language used in activities of government and municipalities shall be ”good”, plain and clear (Art. 10). This act can motivate future researchers to attend to Icelandic plain language. The author emphasizes the value of language discourses as material for such research.
Kan lovspråk temmes?
Authors: Motzfeldt Sissel C.
Published: January 2018

In the Plain Legal project we started our work by establishing a knowledge base. We conducted two surveys—one directed at the general public and the other at civil servants from ministries and agencies. The surveyors found that 54 percent of the public said they had read a law or regulation in the previous year concerning work, health, welfare, housing or the economy. This showed that clear legislation was important for the general public too. The survey directed at civil servants showed that linguists were seldom used in the legislative process and that draft laws were almost never user-tested. Our knowledge base has proved very useful in our work, and has helped us work systematically in the right direction. We are on our way, but we still have a long way to go. Working with improving the language in laws and regulations is a never-ending story!
Klimadebatten: mange stemmer og mange budskap
Authors: Dahl Trine , Fløttum Kjersti
Published: January 2018

Vi tar for oss klimadebatten i et språklig perspektiv. Innenfor LINGCLIM-prosjektet studerer vi hvordan kunnskap, oppfatninger og holdninger relatert til klimaendringer manifesterer seg i kommunikasjon mellom forskere, politikere, interessegrupper og vanlige borgere. Debatten preges av at mange deltar, og at forskjellige stemmer formidler forskjellige historier. Språket påvirker holdninger og handlinger; det et kommunikasjonsmiddel som åpner for mange tolkninger, og kan skape nye virkeligheter. Lingvistiske virkemidler som terminologi, agens (hvem gjør hva?), pronomenbruk, presupposisjoner og metaforer er noen viktige verktøy i denne prosessen, og denne artikkelen gir eksempler på hvordan disse er brukt i klimadebatten. SummaryThe climate debate involves a variety of actors and voices. The debate constitutes a meeting place for science, politics, culture, ethics and individual interests and values. Knowledge from different academic disciplines, professions and sectors is being mediated to a diverse audience. Language does not just (re)present reality; it is also used to interpret and influence actions and opinions, as well as to create new realities. This article discusses some linguistic tools that are being used in these processes. Examples are terminology, the linguistic concept of the agent (who is undertaking the action?), use of pronouns and presuppositions to create consensus, as well as metaphors framing the issues at hand.
Bedre offentlig sprogbrug: Gode hensigter rammer grum virkelighed
Authors: Kjøller Klaus
Published: January 2018

Det er en selvfølgelighed at offentlige myndigheder bør udtrykke sig let forståeligt. Men mange monopolorganisationer gør modstand mod forbedringer, og alt forbliver uændret når sprogkonsulenterne er draget videre efter at have modtaget organisationens officielle hyldest. Hvordan undgår vi at konsulenten og hendes produkter: kurser, pjecer, diasshows, innovationsforløb og teambuildingdage, ender som skueværdier og hyldesucceser uden at kommunikationen forbedres? Artiklen svarer på spørgsmålet ved at give et overblik over udviklingen i Danmark inden for sprog- og kommunikationsrådgivningen fra 1970 til i dag. En udvikling frem mod en mere effektiv rådgivning. SummaryIt is a truism that public authorities should express themselves clearly. But many monopoly organisations are resisting improvement, and everything remains unchanged after the language consultants have received official thanks and moved on. How do we prevent the consultants and their products – courses, brochures, slide shows, innovation processes and teambuilding days – ending up as advertised values and hollow successes without communication being improved? This article answers the question with an overview of developments in the field of language and communication consultancy in Denmark from 1970 to today: a trend towards more effective counselling.
Klarere språk i Fredrikstad og Sarpsborg
Authors: Nilsen Morten , Trømborg Ingrid
Published: January 2018

Kommunene Fredrikstad og Sarpsborg har jobbet med språket i brev som sendes ut fra oppvekstseksjonene i de to kommunene. Resultatet er fornøyde brukergrupper og færre henvendelser fra forvirrede mottakere. Denne suksessen skyldes godt samarbeid, bred forankring og at fag- og språkekspertise ble kombinert på en god måte i skrivearbeidet. SummaryThe municipalities of Fredrikstad and Sarpsborg have improved the wording of letters in the field of childhood and youth services. As a result, citizens are less confused, ask fewer questions and are happier with the municipalities’ services. This success is due to good co-operation, well-designed working groups combining both subject-matter and language experts, and the fact that the plain language work has a good foundation across the whole organisation.
Kultur eller teknik – refleksioner over hvordan domme skrives
Authors: Thorsteinsdottir Ingibjörg
Published: January 2018

Sandsynligvis er dommere tilbøjelige til at bruge mere uklart og unøjagtigt sprog end nødvendigt, og deres fagterminologi forstås ikke af alle. Årsagerne til dommeres sprogbrug diskuteres i denne artikel. Det hævdes, at årsagerne er mangfoldige og rodfæstet i fagkulturen og traditioner. For at ændre sproget er det nødvendigt at se på flere forskellige faktorer, der ligger dybere end dommeres kendskab til sproget, for eksempel uddannelse, dommeres rolleopfattelse, hvem de skriver til, samt overvejelser over hvorfor domme muligvis er uklare med vilje. Derfor er det tvivlsomt, om formelle retningslinjer kan være til nytte, medmindre man på samme tid ser på de underliggende faktorer. SummaryJudgments are likely to be written in unclear and vague language and frequent use of legal terms can in itself make the text difficult to understand. This article discusses the reasons behind the way judges use language. It argues that the reasons are manifold and deep-rooted in the traditions of the profession. Therefore, any attempt to change the language has to focus on the underlying factors, starting with attitudes fostered in law school, the professional self-image of judges and those for whom judgments are written. We also discuss whether and why the language judges use may to some extent be intentionally vague.
Kommunalt klarspråksarbeid i Norge
Authors: Vågsland Anna Holm , Walstad Kristin Høie
Published: January 2018

Klarspråksarbeid i kommunesektoren er et nybrottsarbeid. I Norge er det gjennomført et pilotprosjekt som ble avsluttet i april 2015, og nå er det satt i gang et langsiktig nasjonalt program som skal vare fram til 2020. Erfaringene så langt tilsier at det er mye å hente på nasjonal samordning av klarspråksarbeidet, blant annet fordi delingspotensialet for tekster er så stort. Kommunesektoren kommuniserer stort sett om de samme tjenestene, og gode tekster fra én kommune kan derfor gjenbrukes i en annen. Kommunesektoren er mangfoldig, både når det gjelder antallet ansatte i hver kommune og selve forvaltningen og tjenesteytingen. Kommunenes målgrupper er store og sammensatte; her dreier det seg om mennesker i alle samfunnsgrupper – med ulike evner og forutsetninger, og i alle livets faser. SummaryPlain language work in the local government sector is a ground-breaking initiative. A pilot project was run in Norway, finishing in April 2015, and now a long-term national programme has been launched, to go on until 2020. Experience to date shows that there is much to be gained from national coordination of the plain language work, not least because there is such potential for sharing texts. The local government sector generally communicates on the same services, and good texts from one municipality can therefore be reused in another. The local government sector is diverse, in terms of the number of employees and of the actual administration and service provision. The target groups for the municipalities are large and complex; they include people in all parts of society, with different needs and abilities, and in all phases of life.
INCUBATOR Lab: Re-Imagining our Biotech Future Through Art / Science Research
Authors: Willet Jennifer
Published: January 2018

INCUBATOR: Hybrid Laboratory at the Intersection of Art, Science and Ecology, is a bioart research and teaching facility housed in the School of Creative Arts at University of Windsor in Canada. Founded in 2009 by Dr. Jennifer Willet, INCUBATOR houses ongoing student and faculty bioart projects, science and technology studies research, and special events investigating the intersection of biotechnology, art and ecology. This paper traces for readers the fundamental conceptual premise of INCUBATOR lab activities, the complex ecological entanglement between contemporary laboratory practices and our planetary ecology as a case study to elucidate the research/creation process at play within the lab.
Very Complex Matter: Collaborations in Art and Geobiology
Authors: Tromble Meredith
Published: January 2018

Geobiologist Dawn Sumner, known for her research on early life in Antarctica, her contributions to the Mars Curiosity science team, and for co-founding KeckCAVES at the University of California Davis, has also spent the past decade working in collaboration with artists. This paper addresses the relevance of these art/science collaborations to her scientific practice through an analysis of four of her projects: Collapse (suddenly falling down) with Sideshow Physical Theater; Dream Vortex with Meredith Tromble; Life Extreme with Philip Alden Benn; and The Vortex with Donna Sternberg and Meredith Tromble. The experiences gained by Sumner and her collaborators show that there are many different ways in which artists and scientists can learn from each other. Echoing throughout the collaborations is the realisation that turning ideas into form yields a result that can stimulate the next cycle of creativity.
2nd Argentine Symposium of Young Bioinformatics Researchers (2SAJIB) organized by the ISCB-SC RSG-Argentina
Authors: Cravero Fiorella , Landaburu Lionel Uran , Moreyra Nicolás N , Fenoy Emilio , Padilla Franzotti Carla L , Lanzarotti Esteban , Parra R. Gonzalo , Palopoli Nicolás , Monzon Alexander Miguel
Published: January 2018

The 2nd Argentine Symposium of Young Bioinformatics Researchers (2SAJIB, according to its acronym in Spanish) took place on November 2017 in Buenos Aires, Argentina. SAJIB is the main annual student-based activity in the field of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology in Argentina and one of the largest in Latin America. Here we summarize the main activities and outcomes from the 2nd SAJIB that gathered together young students and researchers from all over the country and featured recognized Principal Investigators both from the local and international scenes.
Systemic and local cues drive neural stem cell niche remodelling during neurogenesis in Drosophila
Authors: Spéder Pauline , Brand Andrea H
Published: January 2018

Successful neurogenesis requires adequate proliferation of neural stem cells (NSCs) and their progeny, followed by neuronal differentiation, maturation and survival. NSCs inhabit a complex cellular microenvironment, the niche, which influences their behaviour. To ensure sustained neurogenesis, niche cells must respond to extrinsic, environmental changes whilst fulfilling the intrinsic requirements of the neurogenic program and adapting their roles accordingly. However, very little is known about how different niche cells adjust their properties to such inputs. Here, we show that nutritional and NSC-derived signals induce the remodelling of Drosophila cortex glia, adapting this glial niche to the evolving needs of NSCs. First, nutrition-induced activation of PI3K/Akt drives the cortex glia to expand their membrane processes. Second, when NSCs emerge from quiescence to resume proliferation, they signal to glia to promote membrane remodelling and the formation of a bespoke structure around each NSC lineage. The remodelled glial niche is essential for newborn neuron survival.
How low can you go?
Authors: Wiley H Steven
Published: January 2018

Extremely low numbers of active epidermal growth factor receptors are sufficient to drive tumor growth.
How to do things with jokes: Speech acts in standup comedy
Authors: Aarons Debra , Mierowsky Marc
Published: January 2018

How to do things with jokes: Speech acts in standup comedyIn How to Do Things with Words (1962), the philosopher John Austin claimed that we use words to do things in the world, not merely to express a state of affairs. This proposal introduced speech acts, and essentially initiated the study of linguistic pragmatics. Speech acts in everyday communication include persuading, apologizing, criticizing, humiliating, complimenting and a host of other intended behaviours. Austin accentuated the idea of speaker intention, on one hand, and hearer’s response to that intention if successfully conveyed, on the other. We consider some of the speech acts used in the work of selected standup comedians to analyse the way they determine the relationship of performer and audience. We argue that there is a reciprocal relationship between the licensing of certain speech acts in standup comedy, and the success of these speech acts in shaping the social lives of the audience. We show that this relationship is at the forefront of standup comedy’s social impact and that it can generate heightened consciousness of the social and political environment of the time.  Finally, we consider the question of whether socially critical standup can have any noticeable effect on the attitudes or behaviour of both live and digitally mediated audiences.
Globalisation and ethnic jokes: A new look on an old tradition in Belarus and Estonia
Authors: Laineste Liisi , Fiadotava Anastasiya
Published: January 2018

Christie Davies, the renowned humour researcher and a passionate propagator of the comparative method in studying jokes, stressed the necessity of establishing a relationship between two sets of social facts: the jokes themselves on the one hand, and the social structure or cultural traditions wherein they disseminate on the other (Davies 2002: 6). He also inspired others to examine the differences and similarities in the patterns of jokes between different nations, social circumstances and eras. By doing this and building falsifiable models and generalisations of joking relationships, he changed the way we look at and analyse ethnic jokes.This study returns to earlier findings of Estonian (Laineste 2005, 2009) and Belarusian (Astapova 2015, Zhvaleuskaya 2013, 2015) ethnic jokes and takes a look at new trends in fresh data. Starting with the jokes from the end of the 19th century and ending with the most recent jokes, memes and other humorous items shared over the Internet, the paper will give an overview of how social reality interacts with the rules of target choice, above all describing the effect of globalisation on jokelore.
Christie Davies and substantive reality
Authors: Raskin Victor
Published: January 2018

The paper offers a substantive view of humor and claims that Davies' comparison of humor testifies to his interest in substance as well.
Pupillometry reveals the physiological underpinnings of the aversion to holes
Authors: Ayzenberg Vladislav , Hickey Meghan R. , Lourenco Stella F.
Published: January 2018

An unusual, but common, aversion to images with clusters of holes is known as trypophobia. Recent research suggests that trypophobic reactions are caused by visual spectral properties also present in aversive images of evolutionary threatening animals (e.g., snakes and spiders). However, despite similar spectral properties, it remains unknown whether there is a shared emotional response to holes and threatening animals. Whereas snakes and spiders are known to elicit a fear reaction, associated with the sympathetic nervous system, anecdotal reports from self-described trypophobes suggest reactions more consistent with disgust, which is associated with activation of the parasympathetic nervous system. Here we used pupillometry in a novel attempt to uncover the distinct emotional response associated with a trypophobic response to holes. Across two experiments, images of holes elicited greater constriction compared to images of threatening animals and neutral images. Moreover, this effect held when controlling for level of arousal and accounting for the pupil grating response. This pattern of pupillary response is consistent with involvement of the parasympathetic nervous system and suggests a disgust, not a fear, response to images of holes. Although general aversion may be rooted in shared visual-spectral properties, we propose that the specific emotion is determined by cognitive appraisal of the distinct image content.
On the exponent in the Von Bertalanffy growth model
Authors: Renner-Martin Katharina , Brunner Norbert , Kühleitner Manfred , Nowak Werner Georg , Scheicher Klaus
Published: January 2018

Von Bertalanffy proposed the differential equation m′(t) = p × m(t)a − q × m(t) for the description of the mass growth of animals as a function m(t) of time t. He suggested that the solution using the metabolic scaling exponent a = 2/3 (Von Bertalanffy growth function VBGF) would be universal for vertebrates. Several authors questioned universality, as for certain species other models would provide a better fit. This paper reconsiders this question. Based on 60 data sets from literature (37 about fish and 23 about non-fish species) it optimizes the model parameters, in particular the exponent 0 ≤ a < 1, so that the model curve achieves the best fit to the data. The main observation of the paper is the large variability in the exponent, which can vary over a very large range without affecting the fit to the data significantly, when the other parameters are also optimized. The paper explains this by differences in the data quality: variability is low for data from highly controlled experiments and high for natural data. Other deficiencies were biologically meaningless optimal parameter values or optimal parameter values attained on the boundary of the parameter region (indicating the possible need for a different model). Only 11 of the 60 data sets were free of such deficiencies and for them no universal exponent could be discerned.
Cases in Psychiatry: A description of a multi-campus elective course for pharmacy students
Authors: Phan Stephanie V.
Published: January 2018

Cases in Psychiatry was a multi-campus elective course aimed to expand psychiatry knowledge beyond the required course curriculum. The format of the class included didactic course work, small group discussion of patient cases and article evaluation, submission of written notes, debates, and script concordance test questions delivered via a live online platform. Based on student assessment and feedback at the end of the course, the elective course was determined to meet the prespecified course objectives.
Outcomes comparison of long-acting injectable antipsychotic initiation in treatment-naïve veterans in the inpatient versus outpatient setting
Authors: Romstadt Nicole , Wonson Erica
Published: January 2018

Introduction:

Long-acting injectable (LAI) antipsychotics have become an integral component in the treatment of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. Long-acting injectables may be initiated in either the inpatient or outpatient setting; however, there have been no studies to evaluate whether LAI treatment initiation setting impacts patient outcomes. This study sought to assess whether outcomes, specifically psychiatric hospitalization rates, time to hospitalization, and adherence with injections, differed between patients started on LAIs in the inpatient versus outpatient setting.

Methods:

The electronic medical records of all veterans prescribed an LAI at the McGuire Veterans Affairs Medical Center from September 2009 through September 2014 were reviewed in this retrospective study. Veterans met inclusion criteria if they were prescribed an LAI during the study period and were excluded if they had received an LAI prior to September 2009 or if the LAI was started at an outside facility. Patients were separated into treatment groups according to initiation location. The primary outcomes included psychiatric hospitalization rates and time to hospitalization. The secondary outcome measured the proportion of LAI injections received.

Results:

Fifty-five LAI treatment-naïve veterans were included in this study. No statistically significant differences were found in psychiatric hospitalization rates, time to hospitalization, or proportion of LAI injections received when comparing the inpatient and outpatient treatment initiation groups.

Discussion:

Psychiatric hospitalization rates, time to hospitalization, and adherence to LAIs did not differ between the inpatient and outpatient treatment groups, suggesting that treatment initiation location does not have an effect on patient outcomes.
Diuretics: A possible keystone in upholding cognitive health
Authors: DeLoach Tyler , Beall Jennifer
Published: January 2018

Introduction:

Dementia encompasses diseases of progressive memory loss and neurological alterations, including Alzheimer disease. Hypertension is one risk factor proposed for development of Alzheimer disease. The objective is to evaluate the current literature for use of diuretics in the prevention of dementia.

Methods:

Literature was not considered if published before January 1, 2000, or after May 31, 2015. PubMed was used to locate sources. Four search terms were used to find data: Alzheimer disease, antihypertensive agents, diuretics, and dementia.

Results:

Four studies of efficacy of diuretic usage in the prevention against dementia met criteria. Potassium-sparing diuretics displayed risk reduction of Alzheimer disease and maintenance of cognitive function. Risk reduction was demonstrated when used alone (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 0.09, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.01-0.41) as compared to use of other antihypertensives without potassium-sparing diuretics (aHR 0.76, 95% CI 0.49-1.15). Other antihypertensive drug classes did show some benefit, however. Diuretic and angiotensin receptor blocker users had a lower Alzheimer disease risk versus those with no antihypertensive use (hazard ratio 0.40, 95% CI 0.26-0.61) and (hazard ratio 0.37, 95% CI 0.19-0.72), respectively. Additionally, thiazide diuretics were also shown to reduce Alzheimer risk. Thiazide and potassium-sparing combination significantly reduced risk versus non-antihypertensive users (aHR 0.63, 95% CI 0.42-0.94).

Discussion:

Available research demonstrates an inverse association between diuretic use and the incident rate of dementia. Specifically, this has been found with thiazide and potassium-sparing diuretics when used alone or in combination. This review suggests that patients receiving diuretics for hypertension may receive an added neuroprotective effect.
Outcomes of patient education practices to optimize the safe use of lithium: A literature review
Authors: Zolezzi Monica , Eltorki Yassin Hassan , Almaamoon Mahmoud , Fathy Mahmoud , Omar Nabil E.
Published: January 2018

Introduction:

Lithium is commonly used to treat various psychiatric disorders and is particularly effective in the maintenance phase of bipolar disorder. Unfortunately, this drug has a narrow therapeutic index and, if not monitored regularly, can result in toxicity. Therefore, for lithium to be prescribed safely, clinicians must ensure that patients are well educated on lithium toxicity, its prevention, and symptom recognition. This article summarizes studies that investigated lithium education strategies to help promote the safe use of lithium.

Methods:

Four electronic databases were searched using key terms and subject headings. Reference lists of relevant papers were also reviewed. The search was limited to literature published in English, without year limits. Eligible studies examined lithium patient education and the impact on patients' knowledge of safe lithium use.

Results:

Of a total of 517 citations that were retrieved from the electronic database search, 12 were selected for inclusion in this review. Most of the studies included assessed the effect of lithium education on various aspects of patients' knowledge, including but not limited to, lithium toxicity. Of the studies assessing the correlation between lithium knowledge and lithium levels, most demonstrated a positive correlation between lithium knowledge and lithium levels that were more stable and within the higher end of the recommended therapeutic range.

Conclusions:

Studies evaluating lithium patient education and its effect on improving the safe use of lithium are limited. Nevertheless, this literature review highlights that lithium patient education is critical to promote its safe use.
The Influence of Eurasian Snow Extent on the Northern Extratropical Stratosphere in a QBO Resolving Model
Authors: Tyrrell Nicholas L. , Karpechko Alexey Y. , Räisänen Petri
Published: January 2018

The European Centre/Hamburg version 6 atmospheric model with a well‐defined stratosphere and an internally generated Quasi‐biennial oscillation (QBO) was used to study the relationship between the autumn Eurasian snow extent and the wintertime climate of the northern hemisphere. A positive snow cover anomaly was imposed over Eurasia in early autumn and held constant until spring. One hundred years of the snow anomaly run was compared with a 100 year control run. A dynamical response to the snow anomaly is seen in the northern polar stratosphere and troposphere during autumn and early winter, in line with previous modeling studies, and the monthly progression of the atmospheric anomalies follows the size of the surface forcing. However, this response is weaker, and occurs earlier in season, than that seen in observations. Considering the effect of QBO, we find a stratospheric vortex weakening during the easterly phase; however, the effect is weaker than that seen in observations. The strongest response of the polar vortex is found when both factors—the snow anomaly and the QBO phase—are considered together, with the response being close to an additive combination of the responses to the individual forcings. Although our study confirms the ability of snow cover variability to significantly influence the large‐scale circulation, it also demonstrates that the inclusion of a well‐resolved stratosphere is not a sufficient condition for reproducing the intensity and timing of the circulation response appearing in observations.
Generating Focused 3D Perfect Vortex Beams By Plasmonic Metasurfaces
Authors: Zhang Yuchao , Liu Weiwei , Gao Jie , Yang Xiaodong
Published: January 2018

Perfect vortex (PV) beams possessing annular intensity profiles independent of topological charges promise significant advances in particle manipulation, fiber communication, and quantum optics. The PV beam is typically generated from the Fourier transformation of the Bessel–Gauss beam. However, the conventional method to produce PV beams requires a series of bulky optical components, which greatly increases the system complexity and also hinders the photonic device integration. Here, plasmonic metasurfaces made of rectangular‐hole nanoantennas as integrated beam converters are designed and demonstrated to generate focused 3D PV beams in a broad wavelength range, by combining the phase profiles of axicon, spiral phase plate, and Fourier transform lens simultaneously based on the Pancharatnam–Berry phase. It is demonstrated that the PV beam structures can be adjusted by varying several control parameters in the metasurface design. Moreover, multiple PV beams with arbitrary arrangement and topological charges are also produced. These results have the promising potential for enabling new types of compact optical devices for tailoring complex light beams and advancing metasurface‐based functional integrated photonic chips.
Periodically Self‐Pulsating Microcapsule as Programmed Microseparator via ATP‐Regulated Energy Dissipation
Authors: Hao Xiang , Chen Liang , Sang Wei , Yan Qiang
Published: January 2018

Living systems can experience time‐dependent dynamic self‐assembly for periodic, adaptive behavior via energy dissipation pathway. Creating in vitro mimics is a daunting mission. Here a “living” giant vesicle system that can perform a periodic pulsating motion using adenosine‐5'‐triphosphate (ATP)‐fuelled dissipative self‐assembly is described. This dynamic system is built on transient supramolecular interactions between the polymer and cellular energy currency ATP. The vesicles capturing ATPs will deviate away from equilibrium, leading to an energy ascent that drives a continuous vesicular expansion, until a competitive ATP hydrolysis predominates to break the ATP–polymer interactions and deplete the energy stored in the vesicles, leading to an opposing vesicular contraction. The input of ATP energy can sustain that these vesicles run periodically along this reciprocating expansile–contractile process, resembling a “pulsating” behavior. ATP level can orchestrate the rhythm, amplitude, and lifetime of this biomimetic pulsation. By pre‐programming the ATP stimulation protocol, this kind of adaptive microcapsules can function as high‐performance microseparators to perform size‐selective sieving of different nanoparticles through ATP‐mediated transmembrane traffic. This man‐made system offers a primitive model of time‐dependent dynamic self‐assembly and may offer new ways to build life‐like materials with biomimetic functions.
Population‐level assessment of genetic diversity and habitat fragmentation in critically endangered Grauer's gorillas
Authors: Baas Pauline , van der Valk Tom , Vigilant Linda , Ngobobo Urbain , Binyinyi Escobar , Nishuli Radar , Caillaud Damien , Guschanski Katerina
Published: January 2018

Objectives

The critically endangered Grauer's gorilla (Gorilla beringei graueri) has experienced an estimated 77% population decline within a single generation. Although crucial for informed conservation decisions, there is no clear understanding about population structure and distribution of genetic diversity across the species' highly fragmented range. We fill this gap by studying several core and peripheral Grauer's gorilla populations throughout their distribution range.

Materials and Methods

We generated genetic profiles for a sampling of an unstudied population of Grauer's gorillas from within the species' core range at 13 autosomal microsatellite loci and combined them with previously published and newly generated data from four other Grauer's gorilla populations, two mountain gorilla populations, and one western lowland gorilla population.

Results

In agreement with previous studies, the genetic diversity of Grauer's gorillas is intermediate, falling between western lowland and mountain gorillas. Among Grauer's gorilla populations, we observe lower genetic diversity and high differentiation in peripheral compared with central populations, indicating a strong effect of genetic drift and limited gene flow among small, isolated forest fragments.

Discussion

Although genetically less diverse, peripheral populations are frequently essential for the long‐term persistence of a species and migration between peripheral and core populations may significantly enrich the overall species genetic diversity. Thus, in addition to central Grauer's gorilla populations from the core of the distribution range that clearly deserve conservation attention, we argue that conservation strategies aiming to ensure long‐term species viability should include preserving peripheral populations and enhancing habitat connectivity.
Great ape walking kinematics: Implications for hominoid evolution
Authors: Finestone Emma M. , Brown Mary H. , Ross Stephen R. , Pontzer Herman
Published: January 2018

Objectives

Great apes provide a point of reference for understanding the evolution of locomotion in hominoids and early hominins. We assessed (1) the extent to which great apes use diagonal sequence, diagonal couplet gaits, like other primates, (2) the extent to which gait and posture vary across great apes, and (3) the role of body mass and limb proportions on ape quadrupedal kinematics.

Methods

High‐speed digital video of zoo‐housed bonobos (Pan paniscus, N = 8), chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes, N = 13), lowland gorillas (Gorilla gorilla, N = 13), and orangutans (Pongo spp. N = 6) walking over‐ground at self‐selected speeds were used to determine the timing of limb touch‐down, take‐off, and to measure joint and segment angles at touch‐down, midstance, and take‐off.

Results

The great apes in our study showed broad kinematic and spatiotemporal similarity in quadrupedal walking. Size‐adjusted walking speed was the strongest predictor of gait variables. Body mass had a negligible effect on variation in joint and segment angles, but stride frequency did trend higher among larger apes in analyses including size‐adjusted speed. In contrast to most other primates, great apes did not favor diagonal sequence footfall patterns, but exhibited variable gait patterns that frequently shifted between diagonal and lateral sequences.

Conclusion

Similarities in the terrestrial walking kinematics of extant great apes likely reflect their similar post‐cranial anatomy and proportions. Our results suggest that the walking kinematics of orthograde, suspensory Miocene ape species were likely similar to living great apes, and highlight the utility of videographic and behavioral data in interpreting primate skeletal morphology.
Application of the endoscopic prelacrimal recess approach to the maxillary sinus in unilateral maxillary diseases
Authors: Lin Yi‐Tsen , Lin Chih‐Feng , Yeh Te‐Huei
Published: January 2018

Background

The endoscopic endonasal prelacrimal recess approach to the maxillary sinus provides wide access to the walls and recesses of the maxillary sinus, and its use has been reported in many maxillary sinus and skull base diseases. The objective of this study was to determine the indication and feasibility of endoscopic sinus surgery using the prelacrimal recess approach in unilateral maxillary sinus diseases.

Methods

We reviewed 192 cases of unilateral maxillary sinus diseases; over 2 years, 15 cases underwent endoscopic surgery via the prelacrimal recess approach. Data regarding preoperative computed tomography scans, operative findings, postoperative pathological diagnoses, postoperative complications, and disease recurrences were obtained from medical records.

Results

Patients who underwent surgery via the prelacrimal recess approach did so mostly because tumors were present in the maxillary sinuses (12/15; 80%), while most of the patients in this study underwent surgery because of chronic inflammation (122/177; 68.9%) and fungal infections (40/177; 22.6%). Among 15 patients undergoing surgery via the prelacrimal recess approach, 9 were cases of inverted papilloma. The mean follow‐up period was 16.5 months (range, 6 to 28 months). No postoperative complications occurred after the prelacrimal recess approach. One out of the 15 cases undergoing the prelacrimal recess approach had tumor recurrence

Conclusion

Most chronic inflammation and fungal infections of the unilateral maxillary sinuses can be managed through a middle meatal antrostomy. The endoscopic prelacrimal recess approach is a reliable and effective method used to approach maxillary sinus diseases.