bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of the Chodura sheath on tungsten ionization and emission in tokamak divertors
Authors: Guterl J. , Johnson C. , Ennis D. , Loche S. , Snyder P.
Published: November 2019

The decay of the electric potential in the sheath region in tokamak divertors occurs on a scale length on the order of the main ion gyroradius (Chodura sheath) due to magnetic fields lines intersecting the divertor plates at grazing incidence. As a consequence, high‐Z impurities like tungsten ionize within the sheath region in attached plasma conditions. The modification of the electron distribution in the sheath region must thus be taken into account to accurately model ionization and emission of impurities within the sheath region. To that end, an analytical expression of the distribution of the vertical ionization path for impurities sputtered from divertor plasma‐facing components is derived. This expression is then used to estimate the fraction of neutral impurities ionizing within the sheath and the average vertical ionization path, and to derive an effective SXB (the number of ionizations per emitted photon) coefficient which includes the effects of the variation of the electron distribution in the sheath region. These results are applied to tungsten impurities sputtered from divertor plates. It is shown that the SXB coefficient for neutral tungsten is significantly reduced in high‐density attached divertor plasma conditions (ne ≳ 5 × 1013 cm−3) because of the ionization of neutral tungsten well within the sheath region.
The effect of various pre‐treatment methods of chromium leather shavings in continuous biogas production
Authors: Gomes Carolina Scaraffuni , Repke Jens‐Uwe , Meyer Michael
Published: November 2019

During leather manufacture, high amounts of chromium shavings, wet by‐products of the leather industry, are produced worldwide. They are stable towards temperatures of up to 110°C and enzymatic degradation, preventing anaerobic digestion in a biogas plant. Hitherto, chromium shavings are not utilized industrially to produce biogas. In order to ease enzymatic degradation, necessary to produce biogas, a previous denaturation of the native structure has to be carried out. In our projects, chromium shavings were pre‐treated thermally and mechanically by extrusion and hydrothermal methods. In previous works, we intensively studied the use of these shavings to produce biogas in batch scale and significant improvement was reached when using pre‐treated shavings. In this work, a scale‐up of the process was performed in a continuous reactor using pre‐treated and untreated chromium shavings to examine the feasibility of the considered method. Measuring different parameters along the anaerobic digestion, namely organic matter, collagen content, and volatile fatty acids content, it was possible to show that a higher methane production can be reached and a higher loading rate can be used when feeding the reactor with pre‐treated shavings instead of untreated chromium shavings, which means a more economical and efficient process in an industrial scenario.
A qualitative exploration of the views of patients and their relatives regarding interventions to minimize the distress related to postoperative delirium
Authors: Meilak Catherine , Biswell Elizabeth , Willis Rosalind , Partridge Judith , Dhesi Jugdeep
Published: November 2019

Background

Postoperative delirium (POD) is common in older people and can be distressing for patients and their relatives. This study aimed to describe the experience of postoperative delirium and explore the views of patients and relatives in order to inform the codesign of an intervention to minimize distress related to postoperative delirium.

Methods

Qualitative study using a thematic analysis of semistructured interviews in patients (n = 11) and relatives (n = 12) who experienced and witnessed POD, respectively.

Results

Patients and relatives find POD distressing and desire information on the cause and consequences of delirium. This information should be delivered pre‐emptively where possible for patients and relatives during the episode for relatives and in post episode follow up for patients and their families. Information should be provided in person by a health care professional who has experience in managing delirium, supplemented by written materials. In addition, participants suggested training to improve staff and public awareness of delirium.

Conclusions

This qualitative study showed that patients and relatives find delirium distressing, report the need for an intervention to minimize this distress, and enabled codesign of a pilot intervention. Refinement and evaluation of this intervention should form the next step in this program of work.
The diagnostic value of cytology in parotid Warthin's tumors: international multicenter series
Authors: Borsetto Daniele , Fussey Jonathan M. , Cazzador Diego , Smith Joel , Ciorba Andrea , Pelucchi Stefano , Donà Sara , Boscolo‐Rizzo Paolo , Tomasoni Michele , Lombardi Davide , Nicolai Piero , Zanoletti Elisabetta , Colangeli Roberta , Emanuelli Enzo , Osborne Max S. , Ahsan Syed F. , Tofanelli Margherita , Tirelli Giancarlo , McNamara Katherine , Liew Leonard , Harrison Katherine , Fassina Ambrogio , Sarcognato Samantha , Sharma Neil , Rao Kanishka , Pracy Paul , Nankivell Paul
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Warthin's tumor (WT) is a common benign salivary gland neoplasm with a negligible risk of malignant transformation. However, there is a risk of malignant tumors being misdiagnosed as WT on cytology and inappropriately managed conservatively.

Methods

Patients from nine centers in Italy and the United Kingdom undergoing parotid surgery for cytologically diagnosed WT were included in this multicenter retrospective series. Definitive histology was compared with preoperative cytological diagnoses. Surgical complications were recorded.

Results

A total of 496 tumors were identified. In 88.9%, the final histological diagnosis was WT. In 21 cases (4.2%) a malignant neoplasm was diagnosed, which had been incorrectly labeled as WT on cytology.

Conclusions

The risk of undiagnosed malignancy should be balanced against surgical risks when considering the management of WT. Although nonsurgical management remains an appropriate option, there may be a rationale for serial clinical or radiological evaluation if surgical excision is not performed.
Improved identification and differentiation from epileptiform activity of human hippocampal sharp wave ripples during NREM sleep
Authors: Jiang Xi , Gonzalez‐Martinez Jorge , Cash Sydney S. , Chauvel Patrick , Gale John , Halgren Eric
Published: November 2019

In rodents, pyramidal cell firing patterns from waking may be replayed in nonrapid eye movement sleep (NREM) sleep during hippocampal sharp wave ripples (HC‐SWR). In humans, HC‐SWR have only been recorded with electrodes implanted to localize epileptogenicity. Here, we characterize human HC‐SWR with rigorous rejection of epileptiform activity, requiring multiple oscillations and coordinated sharp waves. We demonstrated typical SWR in those rare HC recordings which lack interictal epileptiform spikes (IIS) and with no or minimal seizure involvement. These HC‐SWR have a similar rate (~12 min−1 on average, variable across NREM stages and anterior/posterior HC) and apparent intra‐HC topography (ripple maximum in putative stratum pyramidale, slow wave in radiatum) as rodents, though with lower frequency (~85 Hz compared to ~140 Hz in rodents). Similar SWR are found in HC with IIS, but no significant seizure involvement. These SWR were modulated by behavior, being largely absent (<2 min−1) except during NREM sleep in both Stage 2 (~9 min−1) and Stage 3 (~15 min−1), distinguishing them from IIS. This study quantifies the basic characteristics of a strictly selected sample of SWR recorded in relatively healthy human hippocampi.
Exploring the difference between implied volatilities of options embedded in convertible bonds and exchange‐traded options and its contributing factors
Authors: Sae‐Sue Tanawit , Sinthawat Supawut , Srivisal Narapong
Published: November 2019

The convertible feature attached to a newly issued bond represents an embedded option whose value is determined by firm. The embedded option's implied volatility reflects the firm's view of its stock price risk which may differ from that of the market reflected in the exchange‐traded option. If such a gap in implied volatilities exists, it may create arbitrage opportunity for investors. Hence, we determined the gap between the implied volatilities extracted from the U.S. exchange‐traded option and embedded option and investigated its potential contributing factors, including corporate variables (price‐to‐book, market capitalization, cost of debt, debt‐to‐equity) and bond variables (maturity, default probability). The result showed that, during 2014–2016, the difference existed and was attributed to the firm's market capitalization. Our finding suggests the potential arbitrage opportunity in the debt, equity, and convertible instruments of small market capitalization firms.
Examining the blood amino acid status in pretherapeutic patients with hyperphenylalaninemia
Authors: Liang Lili , Ye Jun , Han Lianshu , Qiu Wenjuan , Zhang Huiwen , Yu Yongguo , Zhu Tianwen , Xu Feng , Zhan Xia , Bao Peizhong , Ji Wenjun , Gu Xuefan
Published: November 2019

Background

Hyperphenylalaninemia is the most common genetic metabolic disease. Early treatment prevents brain injury effectively. The present study aimed to detect the exact amino acid status of patients with hyperphenylalaninemia before treatment.

Methods

Data of 116 newborn patients from our Newborn Screening Center and 161 older patients from our clinic before treatment were collected. The content of 17 amino acids in their blood was determined by tandem mass spectrometry and compared with normal controls. Relationship between phenylalanine and other amino acids in patients was analyzed using the smoothing curve fitting and threshold effect analysis.

Results

Most amino acids in the blood of patients were within the normal range; however, they were different significantly from those of the normal children. Newborn patients showed higher phenylalanine (346.30 vs 45.90 µmol/L), valine (121.50 vs 110.30 µmol/L), citrulline, ornithine and lower tyrosine (52.97 vs 66.12 µmol/L), threonine (68.68 vs 78.21 µmol/L), glutamine levels than observed in normal newborns. Older patients showed significantly higher phenylalanine (844.00 vs 51.82 µmol/L), valine (117.60 vs 110.90 µmol/L), histidine, serine and lower tyrosine (55.97 vs 67.31 µmol/L), threonine (35.94 vs 51.89 µmol/L), alanine, asparagine, glutamic acid, methionine, arginine, glycine, ornithine, glutamine content than found in matched normal children. Tyrosine, valine, ornithine, and threonine in newborn patients and tyrosine, glycine, glutamine, and threonine in older patients had a nonlinear correlation with phenylalanine levels with obvious threshold effect and clear inflection points.

Conclusion

Significant difference was observed in the amino acid status between pretherapeutic hyperphenylalaninemia patients and normal children. Some amino acids showed notable threshold effect with phenylalanine level in a nonlinear pattern.
Hypoglycemia in CDG patients due to PMM2 mutations: Follow up on hyperinsulinemic patients
Authors: Moravej Hossein , Altassan Ruqaiah , Jaeken Jaak , Enns Gregory M. , Ellaway Carolyn , Balasubramaniam Shanti , De Lonlay Pascale , Coman David , Mercimek‐Andrews Saadet , Witters Peter , Morava Eva
Published: November 2019

Background

Phosphomannomutase 2 deficiency (PMM2‐CDG) is the most common congenital disorder of glycosylation (CDG). Hypoglycemia has been reported in various CDG including PMM2‐CDG. The frequency and etiology of hypoglycemia in PMM2‐CDG are not well studied.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of the literature on genetically and/or biochemically confirmed PMM2‐CDG patients who developed hypoglycemia. Prospective follow‐up information on the patients who received diazoxide therapy was collected and evaluated.

Results

A total of 165 peer‐reviewed articles reporting on 933 PMM2‐CDG patients were assessed. Hypoglycemia was specifically mentioned only in 23 of these patients (2.5%). Hyperinsulinism was identified in 10 patients (43% of all hypoglycemic patients). Among these 10 patients, seven were successfully treated with diazoxide. However, most patients remained on therapy longer than a year to stay free of hypoglycemia.

Conclusion

Hypoglycemia is a rarely reported finding in patients with PMM2‐CDG. Diazoxide‐responsive hyperinsulinism was found to have a good prognosis on medication in our PMM2‐CDG patients with hypoglycemia. No genotype‐phenotype correlation was observed with respect to hyperinsulinism. A prospective study should be undertaken to explore the hypothesis that hypoglycemia is underdiagnosed in PMM2‐CDG and to evaluate whether hyperinsulinism is always associated with hypoglycemia.
Application of Raman spectroscopy in comparative study of antiobesity influence of oxytocin and freeze‐dried extracts of Uvariodendron anisatum Verdeck (Annonaceae) in Sprague Dawley rats
Authors: Birech Zephania , Mwangi Peter W. , Sehmi Prabjot K. , Nyaga Nelly M.
Published: November 2019

Obesity is a condition affecting a substantial number of people in the world. Obese people have increased risks of developing chronic metabolic diseases such as type II diabetes, hypertension, and cancer, among others. Predicting potential development together with rapid diagnosis of the condition followed by early interventions is therefore necessary. This work investigated, first, utility of Raman spectroscopy in performing comparative antiobesity influence studies of oxytocin and a freeze‐dried extract of a local herbal plant exhibiting oxytocin‐like properties called Uvariodendron anisatum Verdeck (Annonaceae) (UAV) on diet induced obesity in Sprague Dawley rat models. Second, we looked for obesity biomarker Raman spectral bands. The blood extracted from the rats were applied onto conductive silver paste smeared glass slides and excited using a 785‐nm laser. Raman spectra of blood from oxytocin‐ and UAV‐treated rats displayed similar profiles with low doses of UAV (100 mg/kg of body weight) being more similar to oxytocin than high doses (200 mg/kg of body weight) as revealed by cosine similarity value of 0.997. Their profiles were also different from blood of obese and nonobese (normal controls) animals. A prominent peak in spectra of treated rats centred at 401 cm−1 can be oxytocin's biomarker band in blood. Comparison of average intensity trend of fructose bands at around 638 and 812 cm−1 between prepared fructose solution and blood of treated rats revealed elevated levels of fructose in blood of rats intraperitoneally injected oxytocin and UAV extracts. The result implied upregulation of fructose in oxytocin‐ and UAV‐treated animals. Principal component analysis confirmed that Raman spectral profiles from blood of obese rats were different from those of nonobese rats with bands ascribed to fructose (638, 812, and 1,217 cm−1) and branched chain amino acids (BCAAs; 478, 1,318, and 1,443 cm−1), being utilized in the segregation of the spectral data sets. It also showed that spectra from oxytocin‐treated and UAV‐treated rat's blood were similar implying identical influence of the drugs on the animals. The study showed potential of Raman spectroscopy as tool for quick obesity (or metabolic syndrome) screening with intensity of Raman bands associated with fructose and BCAAs as biomarkers. Besides, the same bands may be used in comparative efficacy studies of antiobesity drugs. The results reported here are rare in literature.
Two‐Dimensional Shear Wave Elastography in the Assessment of Salivary Gland Involvement in Primary Sjögren's Syndrome
Authors: Arslan Serdar , Durmaz Mehmet Sedat , Erdogan Hasan , Esmen Serpil Ergulu , Turgut Bekir , Iyisoy Mehmet Sinan
Published: November 2019

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate the diagnostic performance of two‐dimensional (2D) shear wave elastography (SWE) in the assessment of salivary gland involvement in primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS).

Methods

Fifty‐three patients with pSS and 30 healthy volunteers were included. The echogenicity of all submandibular and parotid glands was evaluated with B‐mode ultrasound, and their elasticity was assessed with 2D SWE. The mean and standard deviation of the shear wave speed and elasticity modes on 2D SWE were calculated.

Results

The mean shear wave speed and elasticity mode values for the submandibular and parotid glands were significantly higher in the patients with pSS (P < .05). The mean elasticity of the shear wave speed mode was best able to differentiate the parotid glands of patients with pSS from those of healthy volunteers at a cutoff value of 2.48 m/s, whereas the mean elasticity of the elasticity mode was best able to differentiate the submandibular glands of patients with pSS from those of healthy volunteers at a cutoff value of 21 kPa.

Conclusions

Two‐dimensional SWE is an effective technique for assessment of the parenchyma of the salivary glands in patients with pSS and predicts interstitial fibrosis and the severity of histologic damage.
Impact of land use change and soil type on total phosphorus and its fractions in soil aggregates
Authors: Zhang Yaqi , Bhattacharyya Ranjan , Dalal Ram C. , Wang Peng , Menzies Neal W. , Kopittke Peter M.
Published: November 2019

Conversion of land from native vegetation to long‐term agricultural cropping adversely affects soil phosphorus (P) reserves. We examined surface soils (0–0.1 m) from three paired sites from four land uses (native vegetation, cropping, pasture, and plantation, up to 115 years) from subtropical Australia (a Vertisol from Warra, an Oxisol from Lamington, and an Oxisol from Kingaroy) for the changes in the total P concentrations as well as the fractionation of P in bulk soil and in aggregate fractions. Among different land uses and soil types, the conversion of the Kingaroy Oxisol from native vegetation to cropping decreased soil aggregation markedly. Across all three soils, land use change from native vegetation to cropping decreased total organic C (TOC) concentrations by 68–85% and organic P (Po) by 55–63%. The corresponding decreases in Po upon conversion to pasture and plantation were lower, being 12–23%. These decreases in Po were primarily associated with a decrease in the NaOH‐Po fraction (relatively available P). Although land use change to cropping reduced the proportion of large macroaggregates, the P concentration, including NaOH‐Po fraction was similar across all aggregate sizes. Finally, although the overall contribution of the silt+clay fraction was small, the C and Po reserves in this fraction tended to be more resilient and the C/Po ratio remained relatively constant. This study has demonstrated the impacts of cropping on soil P reserves, but that conversion of cropping to pasture or plantation can largely reverse these adverse effects.
Positive solution of nonlinear fractional differential equations with Caputo‐like counterpart hyper‐Bessel operators
Authors: Zhang Kangqun
Published: November 2019

By studying a weakly singular integral whose kernel involves Mittag‐Leffler functions, we obtain some new Gronwall‐type integral inequalities. Applying these inequalities and fixed point theorems, existence and uniqueness of positive solution of initial value problem to nonlinear fractional differential equation with Caputo‐like counterpart hyper‐Bessel operators are established.
Fixed‐frequency conical beam scanning antenna array with small ripple for Satcom‐on‐the‐Move system
Authors: Liu Qian , Qi Shi‐Shan , Wu Wen , Fang Da‐Gang
Published: November 2019

A conical beam antenna array with fixed‐frequency scanning capability is proposed. Twelve open waveguide radiating elements filled with microwave ferrite on a metal ground plane are evenly distributed around a circle to realize small gain ripple and the array is fed by a planar feeding structure to realize low profile. The fixed‐frequency beam scanning can be realized by varying the magnetic bias field applied perpendicularly to the width of the waveguide. The coupled lines with two shorts are utilized to realize the high characteristic impedance. The measured results show that the conical beam scans from 13° to 31° at the center frequency and the gain is better than 8 dBi. The ripple is less than 0.5 dB. Good agreement has been observed between the simulated results and the measured ones.
Combined endogenous MR biomarkers to assess changes in tumor oxygenation induced by an allosteric effector of hemoglobin
Authors: Cao‐Pham Thanh‐Trang , Tran‐Ly‐Binh An , Heyerick Arne , Fillée Catherine , Joudiou Nicolas , Gallez Bernard , Jordan Bénédicte F.
Published: November 2019

Hypoxia is a crucial factor in cancer therapy, determining prognosis and the effectiveness of treatment. Although efforts are being made to develop methods for assessing tumor hypoxia, no markers of hypoxia are currently used in routine clinical practice. Recently, we showed that the combined endogenous MR biomarkers, R1 and R2*, which are sensitive to [dissolved O2] and [dHb], respectively, were able to detect changes in tumor oxygenation induced by a hyperoxic breathing challenge. In this study, we further validated the ability of the combined MR biomarkers to assess the change in tumor oxygenation induced by an allosteric effector of hemoglobin, myo‐inositol trispyrophosphate (ITPP), on rat tumor models. ITPP induced an increase in tumor pO2, as observed using L‐band electron paramagnetic resonance oximetry, as well as an increase in both R1 and R2* MR parameters. The increase in R1 indicated an increase in [O2], whereas the increase in R2* resulted from an increase in O2 release from blood, inducing an increase in [dHb]. The impact of ITPP was then evaluated on factors that can influence tumor oxygenation, including tumor perfusion, saturation rate of hemoglobin, blood pH and oxygen consumption rate (OCR). ITPP decreased blood [HbO2] and significantly increased blood acidity, which is also a factor that right‐shifts the oxygen dissociation curve. No change in tumor perfusion was observed after ITPP treatment. Interestingly, ITPP decreased OCR in both tumor cell lines. In conclusion, ITPP increased tumor pO2 via a combined mechanism involving a decrease in OCR and an allosteric effect on hemoglobin that was further enhanced by a decrease in blood pH. MR biomarkers could assess the change in tumor oxygenation induced by ITPP. At the intra‐tumoral level, a majority of tumor voxels were responsive to ITPP treatment in both of the models studied.
Differences Between Long Distance Road Runners and Trail Runners in Achilles Tendon Structure and Jumping and Balance Performance
Authors: Dar Gali , Waddington Gordon , Stern Myriam , Dotan Nadav , Steinberg Nili
Published: November 2019

Background

Load and joint kinematics change with differences in running surface. Running regularly on trails compared to roads might influence the load on the Achilles tendon and its adaptations, along with other factors such as balance, strength, and proprioception.

Objective

To investigate Achilles tendon structure and functional tests in road and trail runners.

Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Setting

Laboratory, sport sciences college.

Participants

The study included 26 road and 17 trail runners who run at least three times per week with a minimum of 20 km per week and who participated in running competitions over the preceding 2 years.

Methods

Each participant was examined for Achilles tendon structure (via ultrasound tissue characterization [UTC] imaging) and underwent functional tests in addition to completing a demographic questionnaire.

Main Outcome Measurements

The percentages of echo types I, II, III, and IV (degree of structural homogeneity) within the tendon, tendon length and width, tendon cross‐sectional area (via UTC imaging); Ankle inversion movement discrimination ability (via Active Movement Extent Discrimination Apparatus device); dynamic postural balance (via Y balance test); jumping performance (by Triple hop distance test); and Hip muscle abduction muscle strength (by hand‐held dynamometry).

Results

Percentage of echo type I was significantly lower while echo type II was higher in the road group compared with the trail group (67.3% type I and 28.9% type II in the road group compared with 74.1% type I and 22.1% type II in the trail group, P < .001). No differences between genders were found and no significant differences between groups were found for the other tests.

Conclusion

Tendon integrity as examined with UTC is different between road and trail runners. This suggests an influence of running surface on Achilles tendon structure. This difference was not reflected in other tests, thus the influence of tendon structure on function needs further examination.
Hydrophobic residues of melittin mediate its binding to αA−crystallin
Authors: Ramirez Lisa M. , Shekhtman Alexander , Pande Jayanti
Published: November 2019

The molecular chaperone αA‐crystallin, mainly localized in the human ocular lens, is believed to protect the lens from opacification and cataract, by suppressing the aggregation of the other lens proteins. The present study provides structural and thermodynamic insights into the ability of human αA‐crystallin (HAA) to bind to its partially unfolded clients in the lens, using a small peptide, melittin from bee venom, as a model client. We characterized the thermodynamic parameters of the binding process between melittin and HAA through isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC), and found the binding to be endothermic and entropy‐driven. We identified the amino acids in melittin important for binding to HAA by saturation‐transfer difference (STD) nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) experiments, and analysis of NMR line broadening upon titration of melittin with HAA. Our results suggest that hydrophobic residues Ile17 and Ile20 on the C‐terminal region of melittin are in close contact with HAA in the melittin‐HAA complex. Information obtained from NMR experiments was used to generate structural models of the melittin‐HAA complex by molecular docking with high‐ambiguity driven docking (HADDOCK). Structural models of the melittin‐HAA complex reveal important principles underlying the interaction of HAA with its clients.
A Robust Nonprecious CuFe Composite as a Highly Efficient Bifunctional Catalyst for Overall Electrochemical Water Splitting
Authors: Inamdar Akbar I. , Chavan Harish S. , Hou Bo , Lee Chi Ho , Lee Sang Uck , Cha SeungNam , Kim Hyungsang , Im Hyunsik
Published: November 2019

To generate hydrogen, which is a clean energy carrier, a combination of electrolysis and renewable energy sources is desirable. In particular, for both the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in electrolysis, it is necessary to develop nonprecious, efficient, and durable catalysts. A robust nonprecious copper–iron (CuFe) bimetallic composite is reported that can be used as a highly efficient bifunctional catalyst for overall water splitting in an alkaline medium. The catalyst exhibits outstanding OER and HER activity, and very low OER and HER overpotentials (218 and 158 mV, respectively) are necessary to attain a current density of 10 mA cm−2. When used in a two‐electrode water electrolyzer system for overall water splitting, it not only achieves high durability (even at a very high current density of 100 mA cm−2) but also reduces the potential required to split water into oxygen and hydrogen at 10 mA cm−2 to 1.64 V for 100 h of continuous operation.
DIN EN 1090‐4 & ‐5 – Normen für den Metallleichtbau
Authors: Podleschny Ralf
Published: November 2019

In den Jahren 2017 und 2018 sind die neuen Normen EN 1090‐4 und EN 1090‐5 für die Herstellung und Anwendung von tragenden Bauteilen und tragenden Profiltafeln des Metallleichtbaus erschienen. Diese Normen basieren auf den bekannten deutschen technischen Regeln DIN 18807‐3, DASt‐Richtlinie 016 und DIN 18807‐9 in aktualisierter Form. EN 1090‐4 und EN 1090‐5 repräsentieren heute erstmals europaweit einen einheitlichen technischen Standard für die Herstellung und die Ausführung von Tragwerken des Metallleichtbaus. Weitere europäische Produktnormen für Bauelemente aus Metall, wie z. B. EN 14782, regeln zum Teil andere Anwendungsbereiche dieser Produkte. Dieser Beitrag soll eine Hilfestellung zur richtigen Anwendung und Abgrenzung der Normen geben.
Zur Bemessung und Ausführung von querkraftbeanspruchten Blindnietverbindungen im Stahlleichtbau
Authors: Kalkowsky Florian , Glienke Ralf , Blunk Christoph , Dörre Maik , Henkel Knuth‐Michael
Published: November 2019

Die Blindniettechnik gilt als ein sehr schnelles und prozesssicheres Fügeverfahren. Blindniete werden überall dort eingesetzt, wo klassische Fügeverfahren, wie bspw. das Schweißen oder Schrauben, technologisch oder konstruktiv bedingt nicht eingesetzt werden können oder unwirtschaftlich sind. Zu den klassischen Anwendungsgebieten im Stahlleichtbau gehören die Befestigungen von Dach‐ und Wandverkleidungen. Darüber hinaus werden weitere Anwendungsfelder wie z. B. Hochregallager und Wohncontainer von der Blindniettechnik erobert. Leider bestehen seitens der Ausführung und Bemessung von Verbindungen mit Blindnieten im Stahlleichtbau für zuvor genannte Konstruktionen einige Hürden, sodass bislang immer auf einen bauaufsichtlichen Verwendbarkeitsnachweis zurückgegriffen werden muss. Dieser kann meist nur durch zeit‐ und kostenintensive Einzelfalluntersuchungen erlangt werden. Darüber hinaus ist die bestehende normative Regelung durch DIN EN 1993‐1‐3 sowie DIN EN 1090‐4 nach Meinung der Verfasser unzureichend, was einem breiteren Einsatz der Blindniettechnik momentan noch entgegensteht.

In diesem Beitrag werden die Ergebnisse aus systematischen Untersuchungen zur Abscher‐ und Lochleibungstragfähigkeit von Blindnieten und den damit hergestellten Verbindungen vorgestellt. Ziel der Untersuchungen war die Überprüfung und Erweiterung der im EC 3 bestehenden Bemessungs‐ und Ausführungsregeln für Blindnietverbindungen, um zukünftig einen rein rechnerischen Nachweis der DIN EN 1993‐1‐3 für querkraftbeanspruchte Blindnietverbindungen zu erlauben und somit den erforderlichen Aufwand für eine versuchsgestützte Bemessung zu reduzieren.
Distributed Selves: Shifting Inequities of Impression Management in Couples Living with Dementia
Authors: Fletcher James Rupert
Published: November 2019

This paper presents data from interviews with seven people with dementia and twenty six carers in the United Kingdom, to explore impression management in couples living with dementia. Participants with dementia typically preferred to conceal their diagnoses and acted accordingly, but progressive decline precluded perpetual concealment. Participants therefore gradually switched to a second type of management, displaying their impairments in specific ways to encourage favorable impressions. Cognitive inequities, and the prescriptiveness of diagnosis and care, granted carers increasing power over the presentation of selves. Such inequity is potentially problematic because cultural and institutional concerns can promote conflicting preferences within couples. The shifting distribution of self is hence bound up with structural constraints. A video abstract is available at
https://tinyurl.com/y3mj4d9f.
On the role of mRNA secondary structure in bacterial translation
Authors: Chiaruttini Claude , Guillier Maude
Published: November 2019

Messenger RNA (mRNA) is no longer considered as a mere informational molecule whose sole function is to convey the genetic information specified by DNA to the ribosome. Beyond this primary function, mRNA also contains additional instructions that influence the way and the extent to which this message is translated by the ribosome into protein(s). Indeed, owing to its intrinsic propensity to quickly and dynamically fold and form higher order structures, mRNA exhibits a second layer of structural information specified by the sequence itself. Besides influencing transcription and mRNA stability, this additional information also affects translation, and more precisely the frequency of translation initiation, the choice of open reading frame by recoding, the elongation speed, and the folding of the nascent protein. Many studies in bacteria have shown that mRNA secondary structure participates to the rapid adaptation of these versatile organisms to changing environmental conditions by efficiently tuning translation in response to diverse signals, such as the presence of ligands, regulatory proteins, or small RNAs.

This article is categorized under:

Regulatory RNAs/RNAi/Riboswitches > Regulatory RNAs

RNA Structure and Dynamics > Influence of RNA Structure in Biological Systems

Translation > Translation Regulation
Impact of river reconstruction on groundwater flow during bank filtration assessed by transient three-dimensional modelling of flow and heat transport
Authors: Wang Wei-shi , Oswald Sascha E. , Gräff Thomas , Lensing Hermann-Josef , Liu Tie , Strasser Daniel , Munz Matthias
Published: November 2019

Bank filtration (BF) is an established indirect water-treatment technology. The quality of water gained via BF depends on the subsurface capture zone, the mixing ratio (river water versus ambient groundwater), spatial and temporal distribution of subsurface travel times, and subsurface temperature patterns. Surface-water infiltration into the adjacent aquifer is determined by the local hydraulic gradient and riverbed permeability, which could be altered by natural clogging, scouring and artificial decolmation processes. The seasonal behaviour of a BF system in Germany, and its development during and about 6 months after decolmation (canal reconstruction), was observed with a long-term monitoring programme. To quantify the spatial and temporal variation in the BF system, a transient flow and heat transport model was implemented and two model scenarios, ‘with’ and ‘without’ canal reconstruction, were generated. Overall, the simulated water heads and temperatures matched those observed. Increased hydraulic connection between the canal and aquifer caused by the canal reconstruction led to an increase of ~23% in the already high share of BF water abstracted by the nearby waterworks. Subsurface travel-time distribution substantially shifted towards shorter travel times. Flow paths with travel times <200 days increased by ~10% and those with <300 days by 15%. Generally, the periodic temperature signal, and the summer and winter temperature extrema, increased and penetrated deeper into the aquifer. The joint hydrological and thermal effects caused by the canal reconstruction might increase the potential of biodegradable compounds to further penetrate into the aquifer, also by potentially affecting the redox zonation in the aquifer.
Morphogenesis: a focus on marine invertebrates
Authors: Lv Zhiyi , Lu Qiongxuan , Dong Bo
Published: November 2019

Morphogenesis is a process describing how the shapes of living tissues and bodies are created during development. Living and fossil organisms exhibit enormously diverse tissue architecture and body forms, although the functions of organs are evolutionally conserved. Current knowledge reveals that relatively conserved mechanisms are applied to control development among different species. However, the regulations of morphogenesis are quite diverse in detail. Animals in the ocean display a wide range of diversity of morphology suitable for their seawater environment. Nevertheless, compared with the intensive studies on terrestrial animals, research on marine animal morphogenesis is still insufficient. The increasing genomic data and the recently available gene editing methods, together with the fast development of imaging techniques, quantitative analyses and biophysical models, provide us the opportunities to have a deeper understanding of the principles that drive the diverse morphogenetic processes in marine animals. In this review, we summarize the recent studies of morphogenesis and evolution at molecular, cellular and tissue levels, with a focus on three model marine animals, namely ascidians, sea urchins and sea anemones.
Kortikosteroide in der Behandlung des Asthmas und der COPD
Authors: Rothe Thomas
Published: November 2019

Zusammenfassung. Zum Einsatz von ICS beim Asthma ist die Datenlage klar. Bei der COPD hingegen, bei der in den letzten Jahren das Pendel weg von ICS, hin zu einer dualen Therapie aus LABA / LAMA geschwungen war, ist die Diskussion durch neue Arbeiten wieder offen. Es wäre aber sicher falsch, zum jetzigen Zeitpunkt ICS als sinnvolle Therapie für alle COPD-Patienten zu empfehlen, da die Therapie mit ICS mit Nebenwirkungen behaftet ist, v. a. der Erhöhung des Risikos an einer Pneumonie bzw. einer Osteoporose zu erkranken. Keinen Zweifel gibt es aber daran, dass Patienten mit Asthma COPD Overlap einer ICS-Therapie bedürfen.
Characteristics of Shallow Low‐Frequency Earthquakes off the Kii Peninsula, Japan, in 2004 Revealed by Ocean Bottom Seismometers
Authors: Tamaribuchi Koji , Kobayashi Akio , Nishimiya Takahito , Hirose Fuyuki , Annoura Satoshi
Published: November 2019

The characteristics of shallow low‐frequency earthquakes (LFEs) are related to stress changes on the shallow plate boundary, which are important for understanding the megathrust earthquake cycle. The 5 September 2004 off the Kii Peninsula earthquakes (MJMA = 7.1, 7.4) occurred near the Nankai trough subduction zone, off southwest Japan. Ocean bottom seismometer observations from 22 September to 30 November 2004 detected many shallow LFEs among the ordinary aftershocks. During the observation period, the frequency of shallow LFEs steadily decayed with the exception of episodic activities, which were very sensitive to stress changes caused by tides and the 23 October 2004 Niigata earthquake (MJMA = 6.8). We also confirmed correlations between shallow LFEs and shallow very low frequency earthquakes, which suggest that these slow events represent the same slip phenomenon. These findings will contribute to clarifying the impact of LFEs on megathrust earthquakes.
Diagnostic performance of axillary ultrasound and standard breast MRI for differentiation between limited and advanced axillary nodal disease in clinically node-positive breast cancer patients
Authors: Samiei S. , van Nijnatten T. J. A. , van Beek H. C. , Polak M. P. J. , Maaskant-Braat A. J. G. , Heuts E. M. , van Kuijk S. M. J. , Schipper R. J. , Lobbes M. B. I. , Smidt M. L.
Published: November 2019

Preoperative differentiation between limited (pN1; 1–3 axillary metastases) and advanced (pN2–3; ≥4 axillary metastases) nodal disease can provide relevant information regarding surgical planning and guiding adjuvant radiation therapy. The aim was to evaluate the diagnostic performance of preoperative axillary ultrasound (US) and breast MRI for differentiation between pN1 and pN2–3 in clinically node-positive breast cancer. A total of 49 patients were included with axillary metastasis confirmed by US-guided tissue sampling. All had undergone breast MRI between 2008–2014 and subsequent axillary lymph node dissection. Unenhanced T2-weighted MRI exams were reviewed by two radiologists independently. Each lymph node on the MRI exams was scored using a confidence scale (0–4) and compared with histopathology. Diagnostic performance parameters were calculated for differentiation between pN1 and pN2–3. Interobserver agreement was determined using Cohen’s kappa coefficient. At final histopathology, 67.3% (33/49) and 32.7% (16/49) of patients were pN1 and pN2–3, respectively. Breast MRI was comparable to US in terms of accuracy (MRI reader 1 vs US, 71.4% vs 69.4%, p = 0.99; MRI reader 2 vs US, 73.5% vs 69.4%, p = 0.77). In the case of 1–3 suspicious lymph nodes, pN2–3 was observed in 30.4% on US (positive predictive value (PPV) 69.6%) and in 22.2–24.3% on MRI (PPV 75.7–77.8%). In the case of ≥4 suspicious lymph nodes, pN1 was observed in 33.3% on US (negative predictive value (NPV) 66.7%) and in 38.5–41.7% on MRI (NPV 58.3–61.5%). Interobserver agreement was considered good (k = 0.73). In clinically node-positive patients, the diagnostic performance of axillary US and breast MRI is comparable and limited for accurate differentiation between pN1 and pN2–3. Therefore, there seems no added clinical value of preoperative breast MRI regarding nodal staging in patients with positive axillary US.
Correction: Photochromic transparent wood for photo-switchable smart window applications
Authors: Wang Lihong , Liu Yanjun , Zhan Xiyun , Luo Dan , Sun Xiaowei
Published: November 2019

Correction for ‘Photochromic transparent wood for photo-switchable smart window applications’ by Lihong Wang et al., J. Mater. Chem. C, 2019, 7, 8649–8654.
MiR-27b-3p promotes migration and invasion in colorectal cancer cells by targeting HOXA10
Authors: Yang Xiangling , Chen Junxiong , Liao Yao , Huang Lanlan , Wen Chuangyu , Lin Mengmeng , Li Weiqian , Zhu Yonglin , Wu Xiaojian , Iwamoto Aikichi , Wang Zhongyang , Liu Huanliang
Published: November 2019

Purpose: Dysregulation of microRNAs (miRNAs) contributes to tumor progression via the regulation of the expression of specific oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes. One such example, miR-27b-3p, has reportedly been involved in tumor progression in many types of cancer. The aim of the present study was to delve into the role and the underlying mechanism of miR-27b-3p in colorectal cancer (CRC) cells. Methods: In the present study, we detected the expression level of miR-27b-3p by RT-PCR. The effect of miR-27b-3p overexpression on cell proliferation in CRC cells was evaluated by cell counting and Edu assays. Transwell migration and invasion assays were used to examine the effects of cell migration and invasion. Bioinformatics, luciferase reporter assay and western blot assay were performed to identify the target of miR-27b-3p. Results: Here, we have demonstrated that although miR-27b-3p can affect cell morphology, it has no observable effect on the proliferation of CRC cells. However, it significantly promotes the migration and invasion of CRC cells. We discovered that HOXA10 was a newly identified target of miR-27b-3p in CRC cells, as confirmed by bioinformatics, western blots and dual luciferase reporter assay. Furthermore, the overexpression of miR-27b-3p or the suppression of HOXA10 can activate the integrin β1 signaling pathway. In conclusion, our results reveal a new function of miR-27b-3p that demonstrates its ability to promote CRC cell migration and invasion by targeting the HOXA10/integrin β1 cell signal axis. Conclusion: This may provide a mechanism to explain why miR-27b-3p promotes CRC cell migration and invasion.
Moravian greywacke – evaluation of fracture, strength and deformability properties
Authors: Závacký Martin , Majda Tomáš , Rozsypalová Iva , Štefaňák Jan
Published: November 2019

This contribution brings overview of mechanical properties of greywacke with focus on fracture mechanics parameters. Investigated rock type is clastic sediment, relatively widespread in Moravia region. The rock type is significantly utilized in construction industry. For purposes of this study, Kobeřice quarry was selected as sampling locality. Mechanical properties were investigated by deformation controlled 3-point bending test. Chevron notch was created on specimens in order to study fracture mechanics parameters. Moreover, deformation controlled uniaxial compression tests were carried out, as well. Specimens were equipped with strain gauges; thus, elastic modulus and the Poisson’s ratio could be determined. Splitting tensile test was employed in order to determine tensile strength. Mean value of fracture toughness KIC was determined to 1.85 MPa·m0.5. Mean value of uniaxial compressive strength was observed at level of 211 MPa and tensile strength reached 19.4 MPa. Hence, the tested greywacke was considered as high strength rock. Brittle type of failure occurred during the tests. The obtained results were compared with values reported for clastic sediments from several localities in the Czech Republic. Moravian greywacke reached significantly high strength in comparison to other clastic sedimentary rocks and can be considered as valuable raw material for purposes of construction industry.
Relational place-making in Latvian countryside: Straupe and Kaldabruņa case
Authors: Bite Dina , Kruzmetra Zenija
Published: November 2019

The paper deals with the relational place-making term describing it through the two examples of Latvian countryside. Straupe and Kaldabruņa have developed strong social networks and cooperation during more than 10 years. Both cases are built on certain values that gather similar people and organisations around them. Administrative and social borders are not as important as the purpose of coming together and maintaining of social values. Relational place-making approach can also give an alternative view of consumers' society, as social agents involved tend to assign specific meaning to their actions and interactions. Relational place-making approach is powerful enough to bring up new ideas and implement new economic and social activities, and both theoretically and practically offer a new logic for trans–territorial relations and rural development.
Legal implementation of blockchain technology in pharmacy
Authors: Pashkov Vitalii , Soloviov Oleksii
Published: November 2019

Author analyzes the possibilities of using blockchain technology in pharmaceutical sphere with the purpose of detection of counterfeit and poor-quality medicinal products and discusses the legal acts concerning the use of this technology. Author examines the grounds for the legal provision of blockchain technology in pharmaceutical sector in order to protect the rights of patients. The necessity of legal regulation of the use of blockchain technology by private parties is substantiated taking into account the private legal nature of this system. The mechanism of application of this technology in pharmaceutical activity is revealed.
Aerobic capacity for breast cancer survivors 2 to 3 years after breast surgery
Authors: Ceseiko Rudolfs , Tomsone Signe , Majevska Laura , Vetra Aivars
Published: November 2019

Breast cancer treatment may cause unfavourable side effects that directly or indirectly influence the cardio-respiratory capacity among breast cancer survivors, thus affecting physical functioning and the quality of life. Mounting evidence supports that Maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) is a strong predictor of all-cause mortality and cardiovascular disease, and low VO2max is associated with increased mortality from breast cancer. The aim of the study was to measure cardio-respiratory fitness in breast cancer survivors and determine to what extent VO2max levels are lower compared with healthy counterparts from population. The study included 11 women with a history of breast cancer, the average time after breast surgery being 2–3 years. Aerobic capacity was determined by the Cardiopulmonary exercise test. HUNT3 study was used to define aerobic capacity for healthy women in population. Mean Age for participatns 50 ± 4 years (M ± SD). The comparison of the results from Cardiopulmonary exercise test indicated that breast cancer survivors display VO2max values significantly lower 27.1 ml/kg/min (27%) than healthy counterparts from population, i.e., 34.4 ml/kg/min (P = 0.001). Recognizing the increasing number of breast cancer patients worldwide and the physical reconditioning among the survivors, aerobic exercise training is suitable for improving cardio-respiratory health, functionality, and quality of life.