bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrated Nutrient Management with Biofertilizers in Different Genotypes of Rice Sown under Aerobic Conditions
Authors: Sreedevi B. , Singh Aarti , Tejaswini M.
Published: March 2019

Aerobic rice is a new way of cultivating rice that requires less water than lowland rice. A field experiment was conducted during the kharif season of 2015 to evaluate the effects of nutrient management with Biofertilizers on growth and yield attributes, yield, nutrient uptake and economics different rice cultivars. The experiment was laid out split plot design with four replications. Main plot treatments consisted of two cultivars viz., whereas, sub plot treatments comprised of nutrient management practices namely, N1-125% RDF, N2-125% RDF + Biofertilizers, N3 -100% RDF, N4 -100% RDF + Biofertilizers, N5-75% RDF, N6-75% RDF + Biofertilizers. The source of biofertiliser was a combination of Azospirillum, Phosphorus Solubilizing Bacteria and Potassium Solubilizer applied @ 5 kg/ha-1. Crop dry matter production (2582.3 g/m2), root dry matter production (910.1 g/m2), tillers/m2 (566), leaf area index (4.54), panicles/m2 (535), panicle length (23.81), panicle weight (4.56) and test weight (25.3) was higher in PA 6444 compared to DRR Dhan 44. Higher uptake of nutrients was also observed in PA 6444. Rice fertilized with 125% RDF + Biofertilizers (N2) produced higher crop (2901.6 g/m2) and root dry matter production (1028.1 g/m2), tillers/m2 (561) and leaf area index (5.19). This treatment also recorded higher yield attributes and grain yield (3.55 t/ha). With respect to nutrient uptake, application of 125% RDF + Biofertilizers (N2) recorded      higher N, P and K uptake by grain and straw and higher profitability (1.57) than other nutrient combinations.
Influence of the Composition of the Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) on the Physicochemical Parameters of Leachate at the Municipal Solid Waste Landfill in Nkolfoulou –Yaounde
Authors: Oben M. L. , Boum A. Ngo , Besack F.
Published: March 2019

This study highlights the influence of the composition of the municipal solid waste (MSW) on the physicochemical parameters of leachate at the municipal solid waste landfill in Nkolfoulou –Yaounde. Toxicity characteristic leaching procedure (TCLP) was used as a chemical and analytical method for soil sample extraction to simulate leaching through a landfill. During TCLP procedure the pH of the sample material was first established, and then leached with an acetic acid / sodium hydroxide solution at a 1:20 mix of sample to solvent.  Electrical conductivity (EC) was determined using conductivity meter; Total Suspended Solid (TSS), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), Biological Oxygen Demand. (BOD) were determined using standard procedures. Phosphate was analyzed calorimetrically and heavy metals (Cu, Fe, and Manganese) by Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometric Method. Pearson’s correlation using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0 .was used to estimate the degree of association between waste components and leachate parameters. The results indicate a strong influence of solid waste on leachate production and composition. We found a strong positive correlation between paper and Total Suspended Solids (TSS), r = 0.7724, Phosphorus, r = 0.7249, Fe, r = 0.6993 and Cu, r = 0.7249.
Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Eyelid Surgeries among Surgeons in Nigeria
Authors: Ejimadu C. S. , Fieba B. , Onua A. A.
Published: March 2019

Aim: To determine the level of knowledge, attitude and practice of eyelid surgeries among surgeons in Nigeria.

Methods: A self-administered questionnaires about their knowledge, attitude and practice of eyelid surgeries were given to 135 medical practitioners attending the 49th Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference of the International College of Surgeons (Nigeria National Section) held in Port Harcourt from 16th to 20th June 2015.  Questions asked tested the Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of the medical practitioners on matters related to eyelid surgeries. Study participants’ knowledge, attitude and practice were graded as Good for scores of 75% and above, Fair for 50-74% score and Poor for scores less than 50%.  Respondents’ demographic data, responses and corresponding scores were entered into computer software-Scientific Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20 and analysed.

Results: There were 135 responders, out of which 121 (89.62%) were male while 14 (10.38%) were females. They were aged between 21-70 years with a mean value of 51.6 +/- 8.6 years, range = 40 years and mean = 50 years. Specialist surgeons with college fellowship accounted for 84.4% while specialist surgeons in training (college membership) accounted for 15.6%. Most of the responders (73.3%) were in public service while 9% were in the private service and 17.7% were in both public and private service. Sixty seven per cent of responders had good knowledge of eyelid surgeries, 22.2% had fair knowledge while 11.1% had poor knowledge. Majority (73.3%) had poor attitude while only 26.7% had good attitude to eyelid surgeries. Responders with poor practice of lid surgeries accounted for 77.8%, fair practice were 13.4% while only 8.8% had good eyelid surgery practice.

Conclusion: Most of our responders were experienced surgeons as shown by their ages, educational and professional status. Though majority of them had good knowledge of eyelid surgeries their attitude and practice of it were poor in spite of their experience in the field of surgery. This could be due to the paucity of oculoplastic surgeons in Nigeria. Measures should therefore be taking to improve on subspecialty training especially in oculoplastic surgery and collaborations should be encouraged amongst surgeons involved in facial surgeries.
Prevalence of Anaemia after Initiation of Antiretroviral Therapy among HIV-infected Patients Attending University of Calabar Teaching Hospital Calabar, Nigeria
Authors: Okafor A. O. , Akwiwu E. C. , Akpotuzor J. O.
Published: March 2019

Aims: To investigating some demographic variables and red cell parameters of infected persons already accessing antiretroviral therapy with a view to identifying sub- groups with higher proportions of anaemia. 

Study Design:  Cross-sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: University of Calabar Teaching Hospital Calabar Nigeria, between August 2017 and July 2018.

Methodology: Subjects comprised 60 male and female HIV-infected adults attending University of Calabar Teaching Hospital Calabar, and equal number of age and sex-matched control subjects who were HIV sero-negative as at the time of this study. The infected persons were being treated with either Tenofovir+Lamivudine+Efavirenz (TLE) or Lamivudine+Zidovudine+Nevirapine (LZN). A pre-tested structured questionnaire was administered by two trained interviewers which captured the bio-data, sociodemographic variables and therapy-related information. Venous blood was collected aseptically by standard phlebotomy into appropriate sample containers for CD4 and red cell counts by automation.

Results: The proportion of anaemia occurring between TLE and LZN users was observed to be in the ratio of 2:3. The RBC count, haematocrit and haemoglobin concentration were significantly lower (p=.000), while MCV, MCH and RDW were significantly higher (p=.000) in subjects infected with HIV compared to the control subjects, Duration of treatment beyond 6 years significantly raised both MCV (p=.007) and MCH (p=.006) compared to the first 3 years of treatment commencement, while the MCV, MCH and RDW-SD were significantly higher (p=.003, .014 and .018 respectively) among LZN users compared to those on TLE.

Conclusion: Human immunodeficiency virus infection triggers pathologic mechanisms that culminate into anaemia. While the use of antiretroviral therapy appears to gradually resolve this derangement, the adverse effects of some of the antiretroviral agents contribute to the persistence of anaemia particularly with increasing years of treatment.
Use of Maize Straw or Animal Manure as an Alternative to Gypsum to Ameliorate Saline-Sodic Soils
Authors: Jesus Kennedy Nascimento , Althoff Tiago Diniz , Pérez Marin Aldrin Martin , Sousa Antonio Raimundo , Martins Júlio Cesar Rodrigues , Araújo Filho Renisson Neponuceno , Primo Dario Costa , Menezes Rômulo Simões Cesar , Antonino Antonio Celso Dantas , Barreto Sampaio Everardo Valadares de Sá
Published: March 2019

This work aimed to evaluate the effect of the addition of animal manure or maize straw, combined or not with gypsum, on the recovery of the productive capacity of a Fluvic Entisol affected by salts cultivated with maize (Zea mays L.). The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse, in PVC columns in a 10 x 4 factorial scheme, with ten treatments and four replicates (gypsum, 15 t ha-1 manure, 30 t ha-1 manure, 15 t ha-1 maize straw, 30 t ha-1 maize straw, 15 t ha-1 gypsum plus manure, 30 t ha-1 gypsum plus manure, 15 t ha-1 gypsum plus maize straw, 30 t ha-1 gypsum plus maize straw and control, no input) in a randomized block design. Soils that received maize straw increased both the soil water infiltration rate and the amount of salts leached at the bottom of the column compared to soils that received gypsum. However, maize straw reduced the growth of maize plants, probably due to the immobilization of nutrients. In soils that received 15 t ha-1 manure, the growth of maize plants was higher compared to soils that received gypsum, indicating that the application and organic inputs can improve soil physical conditions, reduce salinity and promote plant growth without the need for the acquisition of gypsum, which gives farmers more autonomy and reduces costs.
Antibiotic Susceptibility Profile of Bacteria Isolated from Fitness Machines in Selected Fitness Centers at Akure and Elizade University in Ondo State Nigeria
Authors: Fadare O. S. , Durojaye O. B.
Published: March 2019

Aim: This study seeks to determine the antibiotic susceptibility pattern of bacteria isolated from surfaces of fitness machines at fitness center located at Elizade University and Akure town.

Methods: Samples were collected from the different site of gym equipment including thread mill (handle, floor), bicep bench (handle), bike (handle, paddle), cruncher (handle, elbow) using sterile swab stick moistened with sterile buffered physiological solution. The swab sticks were immediately transferred to the laboratory for analysis. Standard microbiological techniques were used to identify the bacterial isolates. The antibiotic susceptibility profile of the isolates was determined by using standard antibiotics discs. 

Results: Out of the 31 isolates identified, Staphylococcus aureus 12(38.7%) was the predominant bacteria followed by Bacillus spp. 11(35.5%), Klebsiella spp. 4(12.9%), E. coli and Staphylococcus saprophyticus 2(6.45%) and Enterococcus spp. 1(3.23%). The susceptibility profile showed that all isolates were resistant to Amoxicillin (AM) and Augmentin (AU), Staphylococcus spp. isolated from different surfaces shows different susceptibility pattern to the used antibiotics, while Bacillus spp. Klebsiella spp. and E. coli also confer resistance to more than one commonly used antibiotic.

Conclusion: The results showed the occurrence of potential pathogenic bacteria in which their presence on the equipment surfaces could easily be transmitted between users and to the environment generally. The spread of these potential pathogenic microorganisms in the fitness centre can be prevented through frequent hand washing and use of hand sanitizer as well as daily cleaning of equipment surfaces before and after activities with disinfectants.
Collagen Fibrils Mechanically Contribute to Tissue Contraction in an In Vitro Wound Healing Scenario
Authors: Brauer Erik , Lippens Evi , Klein Oliver , Nebrich Grit , Schreivogel Sophie , Korus Gabriela , Duda Georg N. , Petersen Ansgar
Published: March 2019

Wound contraction is an ancient survival mechanism of vertebrates that results from tensile forces supporting wound closure. So far, tissue tension was attributed to cellular forces produced by tissue‐resident (myo‐)fibroblasts alone. However, difficulties in explaining pathological deviations from a successful healing path motivate the exploration of additional modulatory factors. Here, it is shown in a biomaterial‐based in vitro wound healing model that the storage of tensile forces in the extracellular matrix has a significant, so‐far neglected contribution to macroscopic tissue tension. In situ monitoring of tissue forces together with second harmonic imaging reveal that the appearance of collagen fibrils correlates with tissue contraction, indicating a mechanical contribution of tensioned collagen fibrils in the contraction process. As the re‐establishment of tissue tension is key to successful wound healing, the findings are expected to advance the understanding of tissue healing but also underlying principles of misregulation and impaired functionality in scars and tissue contractures.
Appendiceal adenocarcinoma—Two unique cases of adenocarcinoma ex‐goblet cell carcinoid
Authors: Hennessy Mairead M. , Ivanovski Ivan
Published: March 2019

Key Clinical Message

We describe the different clinical presentations, radiology, histology and management of this unique, highly aggressive disease. Clinical presentation of appendicitis may not just be appendicitis. Appendiceal tumors must always be considered in the differential diagnosis. Dedicated radiology and histological examination in addition to aggressive surgical and oncological input improve outcome.
Branched Polyvinyl Alcohol Hybrid Membrane for Acid Recovery via Diffusion Dialysis
Authors: Cheng Congliang , Li Ping , He Yubin , Hu Xianhai , Emmanuel Kamana
Published: March 2019

A branched polymer was prepared by grafting allyltrimethylammonium chloride onto polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) via free‐radical polymerization. Afterwards, a series of hybrid membranes were prepared by sol‐gel cross‐linking between quaternary ammonium‐PVA and tetraethoxysilane. The obtained membranes were characterized in terms of infrared spectroscopy, ion exchange capacity, water uptake, linear expansion ratio, and acid resistance. The thermal properties of the membranes were investigated as well. The diffusion dialysis performances of the membranes were tested by using a simulated feed solution containing HCl and FeCl2. The diffusion dialysis coefficients and the separation factors were much better than those of the commercial DF‐120 membrane.
Improved Electrochemical Performance of Ultrathin MoS2 Nanosheet/Co Composites for Lithium‐Ion Battery Anodes
Authors: Bai Jin , Zhao Bangchuan , Zhou Jiafeng , Fang Zhitang , Li Kunzhen , Ma Hongyang , Dai Jianming , Zhu Xuebin , Sun Yuping
Published: March 2019

Ultrathin MoS2 nanosheets are promising anode materials for high energy‐density Li‐ion batteries. However, their practical applications suffer from problems of lower capacity and poor cycling performance. In this work, the electrochemical performance of ultrathin MoS2 nanosheets is improved by the synergistic effect of the MoS2 nanosheet structure and cobalt compositing. The morphological characteristics show that the MoS2/Co composite has a more dispersed ultrathin nanosheet structure with a more uniform size distribution. When it is used as an anode material for lithium‐ion batteries, the MoS2/Co composite exhibits excellent lithium storage performance compared with the MoS2. It delivers a much higher initial discharge specific capacity of 1130 mAh g−1 at 100 mA g−1 and still retains 766 mAh g−1 even at 2 A g−1, exhibiting an excellent rate capability. Besides, it also shows a good cycling performance with a slowly capacity increase to 1340 mAh g−1 after 50 cycles at 100 mA g−1. The MoS2/Co composite structure enhances the conductivity of ultrathin MoS2 nanosheets, shortens diffusion path of Li+, and accelerates Li+ and electron transfer, improving the corresponding electrochemical performance.
Electrochemical C−H/N−H Oxidative Cross Coupling of Imidazopyridines with Diarylamines to Synthesize Triarylamine Derivatives
Authors: Liu Kun , Wu Jiarong , Deng Yuqi , Song Chunlan , Song Wenxu , Lei Aiwen
Published: March 2019

An electrochemical dehydrogenative C−H/N−H cross coupling of imidazopyridines with diarylamines has been developed. A variety of triarylamine derivatives could be obtained in high regioselectivities and moderate‐to‐good yields. In this transformation, the reaction is conducted in a simple undivided cell without using a metal catalyst or a stoichiometric amount of external chemical oxidants. Mechanistic studies indicate that the C−N bond is likely to be formed through the cross coupling between an arene cation radical and a nitrogen radical.
Cobalt‐Vanadium Hydroxide Nanoneedles with a Free‐Standing Structure as High‐Performance Oxygen Evolution Reaction Electrocatalysts
Authors: Yang Mingyang , Fu Xuelian , Shao Mengmeng , Wang Zhenyu , Cao Lujie , Gu Shuai , Li Minchan , Cheng Hua , Li Yuchao , Pan Hui , Lu Zhouguang
Published: March 2019

It is a great challenge to develop electrocatalysts with high efficiency and low cost toward oxygen evolution reaction (OER) for the electrolysis of water. Herein, novel CoV‐hydroxide nanoneedle arrays with freestanding structure is successfully fabricated as new electrocatalysts for OER. Remarkably, the incorporation of V into Co hydroxide can significantly modulate the nanoneedle morphology, which results in the increase of active surface area, and augment the intrinsic activity by tuning the electronic structure. Particularly, we find that the freestanding Co hydroxide nanoneedles with 25 % Co substituted by V (Co0.75V0.25‐HNNs) show the optimum OER catalytic activity and have a low overpotential (268 mV at 10 mA cm−2), a small Tafel slope (80 mV dec−1) and long‐term stability, which are comparable to the other Co‐based and V‐based electrocatalysts for OER reported in literature.
Behavioral effects of postnatal ketamine exposure in rhesus macaque infants are dependent on MAOA‐LPR genotype
Authors: Herrington Joshua Anthony , Del Rosso Laura , Capitanio John P.
Published: March 2019

Ketamine is an N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist widely used in pediatric anesthetic and therapeutic practices and veterinary medicine. Previous evidence suggests that exposure to ketamine during sensitive periods of development results in neural apoptosis and atypical behavior. Since monoamine neurotransmitters play important roles in prenatal and early postnatal neural development, and since previous work suggests ketamine can inhibit monoamine transporters, we hypothesized that there would be behavioral consequences of prenatal and early postnatal exposure to ketamine moderated by genotype of the promoter in the monoamine oxidase‐A (MAOA) gene. From a large sample of animals (N = 408), we compared groups of rhesus monkeys that had experienced a single exposure to ketamine during prenatal development, an exposure during prenatal development and one postnatal exposure, a postnatal exposure with no prenatal exposure, and no exposures. Animals were classified by putative activity levels for the MAOA genotype and were tested between 3 and 4 months of age on a battery of behavioral tests. Results suggested that animals exposed to ketamine postnatally, at a dose typically used for sedative effects that also had the low‐activity variant of MAOA performed poorly on a visual memory test compared to animals with the high‐activity variant of the MAOA gene.
Area and distance from mainland affect in different ways richness and phylogenetic diversity of snakes in Atlantic Forest coastal islands
Authors: Portillo José Thales da Motta , Ouchi‐Melo Lilian Sayuri , Crivellari Lucas Batista , de Oliveira Thiago Alves Lopes , Sawaya Ricardo J. , Duarte Leandro da Silva
Published: March 2019

Aim

The Theory of Island Biogeography posits that ecological and evolutionary processes regulate species richness of isolated areas. We assessed the influences of an island area and distance from the mainland on species richness, phylogenetic diversity, and phylogenetic composition of snakes on coastal islands.

Location

Coastal islands of the megadiverse Atlantic Forest in southeastern Brazil.

Methods

We compiled the species composition of 17 coastal islands in southeastern Brazil. Species richness and phylogenetic diversity were calculated for each island. Phylogenetic composition was measured using principal coordinates of phylogenetic structure. We then employed generalized linear models to test the influence of area and distance from the mainland on the diversity metrics.

Results

We found a prominent influence of area on species richness, whereas phylogenetic diversity was more affected by distance from the mainland. Snake clades were distinctly associated with area and distance. The Boidae family was associated with nearer and larger islands, whereas Elapidae was broadly distributed. Distance from the mainland was associated with the distribution of Dipsadidae, whereas Colubridae was influenced by both the area and distance. The Viperidae family attained higher values of phylogenetic diversity in smaller and more remote islands.

Main conclusions

This island system conserved a considerable piece of snake richness from southeastern Brazil, including island endemic species. Area and distance from the mainland were important drivers of snake diversity in the Atlantic Forest coastal islands. However, these predictors affected the different components of diversity in different ways. Phylogenetic composition analysis enables us to understand how basal nodes contributed to high levels of phylogenetic diversity on smaller and farther islands regardless of the decrease in species richness.
Comparison of fish and oil supplements for a better understanding of the role of fat level and other food constituents in determining bioaccessibility
Authors: Gomes Romina , Martins Sara , Afonso Cláudia , Bandarra Narcisa M. , Cardoso Carlos
Published: March 2019

In order to investigate the effects of fat level and protein and other components on lipid bioaccessibility, the bioaccessibility of total lipids and particular fatty acids (FAs) of fish samples with different fat levels (5.4% w/w, 10.2% w/w, and 16.6% w/w) and cod liver oil supplement in different quantities (82, 154, 313, 604, and 1,027 mg) was determined by an in vitro digestion model. Digestion of the fish and oil (up to 154 mg) samples as measured by TAG disappearance was complete. Lipolysis was impaired by high amounts of oil (313 mg and higher). Bioaccessible FA profiles had similarities with the initial (before digestion) FA profiles. However, total MUFA and oleic acid contents were higher in the bioaccessible fraction. The bioaccessibility of EPA and DHA was generally lower than that of oleic acid and total MUFA. Fat level did not affect FAs’ bioaccessibility. On the other hand, protein and other components may have interfered in lipid bioaccessibility and it was found that the reduction of bioaccessibility was stronger when the ratio of the lipid fraction to the nonlipid fraction (mainly protein) was smaller.
Exploring the crystallinity of different powder sugars through solid echo and magic sandwich echo sequences
Authors: Grunin Leonid , Oztop Mecit Halil , Guner Selen , Baltaci Saadet Fatma
Published: March 2019

Time‐domain nuclear magnetic resonance techniques are frequently used in polymer, pharmaceutical, and food industries as they offer rapid experimentation and generally do not require any considerable preliminary sample preparation. Detection of solid and liquid fractions in a sample is possible with the free induction decay (FID). However, for the classical FID sequence that consists of a single pulse followed by relaxation decay acquisition, the dead time of the probe (ring out of resonance circuitry) occurs and varies between 5 and 15 μs for standard 10‐mm tubes. In such a case, there arises a risk that the signal from the solid fraction cannot be detected correctly. To obtain quantitative measurement on crystalline and more mobile amorphous fractions, alternative sequences to the classical FID in the solid‐state nuclear magnetic resonance were developed. Solid echo and magic sandwich echo sequences perform the relaxation decay refocusing somehow excluding the dead time problem and allow detection of the signal from the solid fraction. In this study, knowledge of amorphous/crystal fraction, which is obtained through solid echo and magic sandwich echo, has been explored on powder sugar samples for the purpose of developing a groundwork for a reliable quality control method. Different sugars were examined for the utilization of the sequences. What is important to add and make this study unique is that the method proposed did not involve multiparameter fitting of the “bead” pattern FID signal that normally suffers from ambiguity; just the integration of the fast Fourier transform of the solid echo was needed to calculate the second moment, (M2).
A Comparative Study of Field Emission From Pristine, Ion‐Treated and Tungsten Nanoparticle‐Decorated p‐Type Silicon Tips
Authors: Kleshch Victor I. , Serbun Pavel , Lützenkirchen‐Hecht Dirk , Orekhov Anton S. , Ivanov Victor E. , Prommesberger Christian , Langer Christoph , Schreiner Rupert , Obraztsov Alexander N.
Published: March 2019

The field electron emission characteristics of individual tips of a silicon field emitter array are analyzed. The array of conical‐shaped tips is fabricated on a p‐type silicon wafer by using reactive ion etching and sharpening oxidation. The tips are decorated with single tungsten nanoparticles at their apexes. Furthermore, the focused ion beam is also used to increase surface conductivity of some of the tips. Comparative measurements of field emission are performed by using the scanning anode probe field emission microscopy technique. All types of tips demonstrated emission activation consisting of a sudden current increase at a certain value of the applied voltage. Compared to the pristine tips, a noticeable reduction of the saturation effect in the current–voltage characteristics and a smaller light sensitivity for the decorated tips is found. For ion‐treated tips, saturation effects and light sensitivity are completely suppressed. Scanning electron microscopy observations reveal the formation of single nanoscale protrusions extending from the metal particles and from the apexes of bare ion‐treated tips after exposure under strong electric fields during the field emission measurements. The influence of protrusions growth on characteristics of silicon field emitter arrays is discussed.
Turbine thermomechanical modelling during excessive axial movement and overspeed
Authors: Eryilmaz I. , Pachidis V.
Published: March 2019

This manuscript discusses the numerical (finite element) and analytical modelling of structural interactions between gas turbine components in case of excessive axial movement and overspeed. Excessive axial movement, which may occur after a shaft failure, results in contact between rotating and static turbine components under high forces. These forces create friction which can act as a counter torque, potentially retarding the ‘free-rotating’ components. The study is based on a shaft failure scenario of a ‘three-shaft’, high ‘bypass’ ratio, civil ‘large-fan’ engine. Coupled analytical performance and friction methods are used as stand-alone tools to investigate the effect of rubbing between rotating and stationary components. The method is supported by ‘high-fidelity’, ‘three-dimensional’, thermomechanical finite element simulations using LS-DYNA software. The novelty of the work reported herein lies in the development of a generalised modelling approach that can produce useful engine design guidelines to minimise the terminal speed of a free running turbine after an unlocated shaft failure. The study demonstrates the advantage of using a fast analytical formulation in a design space exploration, after verifying the analytical model against finite element simulation results. The radius and the area of a stationary seal platform in the turbine assembly are changed systematically and the design space is explored in terms of turbine acceleration, turbine dislocation rate and stationary component mass. The radius of the friction interface increases due to the increasing radius of the nozzle guide vane flow path and stationary seal platform. This increases the frictional torque generated at the interface. It was found that if the axial dislocation rate of the free running turbine wheel is high, the resulting friction torque becomes more effective as an overspeed prevention mechanism. Reduced contact area results in a higher axial dislocation rate and this condition leads to a design compromise between available friction capacity, during shaft failure contact and seal platform structural integrity.
Values that form the business: evidence from airport operations in Turkey
Authors: Bal Hilal Tugce , Kucuk Yılmaz Ayse
Published: March 2019

Values are important in understanding the managerial behaviour. Values are the unique criteria that enable people to become conscious of social relations and duties. We contribute to this understanding through determining the values which affect an organisation’s business approach by providing evidence from a comparative study of various airports through a questionnaire method. The study was carried out with 163 participants and factor analysis was used to reduce the complexity of a data set so that it becomes easier to use the data in applied settings. Ranking analysis was used to get the values hierarchy of managers. This hierarchy-addicted culture helps to understand corporate sustainability and loyalty. Managing values increases quality and retains sustainability. Further suggestions are made regarding values that should be taken into consideration for achieving corporate strategies, whether operating regionally or globally. This study contributes towards improving awareness on the effects of values in business management in both theory and practice, along with their limitations. The analysis shows that there is a conformity between organisational and individual values.
Clot Histopathology in Ischemic Stroke with Infective Endocarditis
Authors: Bhaskar Sonu , Saab Jawad , Cappelen-Smith Cecilia , Killingsworth Murray , Wu Xiao Juan , Cheung Andrew , Manning Nathan , Aouad Patrick , McDougall Alan , Hodgkinson Suzanne , Cordato Dennis
Published: March 2019

Background: Endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) has shown efficacy in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients with infective endocarditis (IE). The possibility to undertake advanced histopathological clot analysis following EVT offers a new avenue to establish the etiological basis of the stroke – which is often labelled “cryptogenic.” In this paper, we present our findings from four consecutive patients with IE who underwent EVT following an AIS at our tertiary referral comprehensive stroke centre. Methods: Comprehensive histopathological analysis of clot retrieved after EVT, including morphology, was undertaken. Results: The consistent observation was the presence of dense paucicellular fibrinoid material mixed/interspersed with clusters of bacterial cocci. This clot morphology may be specific to septic embolus due to IE unlike incidental bacteraemia and could possibly explain the refractoriness of such clots to systemic thrombolysis. Conclusion: Detailed morphological and histopathological analysis of EVT-retrieved clots including Gram staining can assist in etiological classification of the clot. Understanding the composition of the clot may be of clinical value in early diagnostics and mapping treatment planning in IE.
A diagnostic algorithm for the surveillance of deep surgical site infections after colorectal surgery
Authors: Mulder Tessa , Kluytmans-van den Bergh Marjolein F.Q. , van Mourik Maaike S.M. , Romme Jannie , Crolla Rogier M.P.H. , Bonten Marc J.M. , Kluytmans Jan A.J.W.
Published: March 2019

Objective:

Surveillance of surgical site infections (SSIs) is important for infection control and is usually performed through retrospective manual chart review. The aim of this study was to develop an algorithm for the surveillance of deep SSIs based on clinical variables to enhance efficiency of surveillance.

Design:

Retrospective cohort study (2012–2015).

Setting:

A Dutch teaching hospital.

Participants:

We included all consecutive patients who underwent colorectal surgery excluding those with contaminated wounds at the time of surgery. All patients were evaluated for deep SSIs through manual chart review, using the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) criteria as the reference standard.

Analysis:

We used logistic regression modeling to identify predictors that contributed to the estimation of diagnostic probability. Bootstrapping was applied to increase generalizability, followed by assessment of statistical performance and clinical implications.

Results:

In total, 1,606 patients were included, of whom 129 (8.0%) acquired a deep SSI. The final model included postoperative length of stay, wound class, readmission, reoperation, and 30-day mortality. The model achieved 68.7% specificity and 98.5% sensitivity and an area under the receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC) of 0.950 (95% CI, 0.932–0.969). Positive and negative predictive values were 21.5% and 99.8%, respectively. Applying the algorithm resulted in a 63.4% reduction in the number of records requiring full manual review (from 1,606 to 590).

Conclusions:

This 5-parameter model identified 98.5% of patients with a deep SSI. The model can be used to develop semiautomatic surveillance of deep SSIs after colorectal surgery, which may further improve efficiency and quality of SSI surveillance.
Sample-Selection Bias and Height Trends in the Nineteenth-Century United States
Authors: Zimran Ariell
Published: March 2019

After adjusting for sample-selection bias, I find a net decline in average stature of 0.64 inches in the birth cohorts of 1832–1860 in the United States. This result supports the veracity of the Antebellum Puzzle—a deterioration of health during early modern economic growth in the United States. However, this adjustment alters the trend in average stature in the same cohort range, validating concerns over bias in the historical heights literature. The adjustment is based on census-linked military height data and uses a two-step semi-parametric sample-selection model to adjust for selection on observables and unobservables.
United States – Certain Methodologies and Their Application to Anti-Dumping Proceedings Involving China: Nails in the Coffin of Unfair Dumping Margin Calculation Methodologies
Authors: PRUSA THOMAS J. , VERMULST EDWIN A.
Published: March 2019

The WTO Appellate Body report United States – Certain Methodologies and Their Application to Anti-Dumping Proceedings Involving China is yet another in a long line of disputes involving US Department of Commerce's dumping margin calculation methodologies. The AB ruled against the United States on three important aspects: (1) the use of the Nails test to rationalize the exceptional method in Article 2.4.2 of the Anti-Dumping Agreement so as to justify using the weighted average-to-transaction methodology in dumping margin calculations; (2) the treatment of multiple companies in a non-market economy as a single NME-wide entity; and (3) the USDOC's policy of using adverse facts available for such an entity. Yet, some aspects of the AB's decision – most notably affirming the use of average prices – significantly weaken Article 2.4.2's pattern requirement and potentially open the door to greater use of the exceptional method.
Tailoring Thermal Transport Properties of Graphene Paper by Structural Engineering
Authors: Ren Li , Wang Mengjie , Lu Shaorong , Pan Lulu , Xiong Zhongqiang , Zhang Zuocai , Peng Qingyuan , Li Yuqi , Yu Jinhong
Published: March 2019

As a two-dimensional material, graphene has attracted increasing attention as heat dissipation material owing to its excellent thermal transport property. In this work, we fabricated sisal nanocrystalline cellulose/functionalized graphene papers (NPGs) with high thermal conductivity by vacuum-assisted self-assembly method. The papers exhibit in-plane thermal conductivity as high as 21.05 W m−1 K−1 with a thermal conductivity enhancement of 403% from the pure cellulose paper. The good thermal transport properties of NPGs are attributed to the strong hydrogen-bonding interaction between nanocrystalline cellulose and functionalized graphene and the well alignment structure of NPGs.
Whole exome sequencing identifies a novel intron heterozygous mutation in TSC2 responsible for tuberous sclerosis complex
Authors: Ye Yicong , Zeng Yong
Published: March 2019

This study was aimed to identify the potentially pathogenic gene variants that contribute to the etiology of the tuberous sclerosis complex. A Chinese pedigree with tuberous sclerosis complex was collected and the exomes of two affected individuals were sequenced using the whole exome sequencing technology. The resulting variants from whole exome sequencing were filtered by basic and advanced biological information analysis and the candidate mutation was verified as heterozygous by sanger sequencing. After basic and advanced biological information analysis, a total of 9 single nucleotide variants were identified, which were all follow the dominant inheritance pattern. Among which, the intron heterozygous mutation c.600-145 C > T transition in TSC2 was identified and validated in the two affected individuals. In silico analysis with human splicing finder (HSF) predicted the effect of the c.600-145 C > T mutations on TSC2 mRNA splicing, and detected the creation of a new exonic cryptic donor site, which would result in a frame-shift, and finally premature termination codon. Our results reported the novel intron heterozygous mutation c.600-145 C > T in TSC2 may contribute to TSC, expanding our understanding of the causally relevant genes for this disorder.
Identifying High Confidence microRNAs in the Developing Seeds of Jatropha curcas
Authors: Yang Mingfeng , Lu Heshu , Xue Feiyan , Ma Lanqing
Published: March 2019

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are endogenously short noncoding regulatory RNAs implicated in plant development and physiology. Nine small RNA (sRNA) libraries from three typical seed developmental stages (young, intermediate, and mature) were generated by deep sequencing to identify the miRNAs of J. curcas, a potential oilseed crop for the production of renewable oil. Strict criteria were adopted to identify 93 high confidence miRNAs including 48 conserved miRNAs and 45 novel miRNAs. Target genes of these miRNAs were involved in a broad range of physiological functions, including gene expression regulation, primary & secondary metabolism, growth & development, signal transduction, and stress response. About one third (29 out of 93) miRNAs showed significant changes in expression levels during the seed developmental process, indicating that the miRNAs might regulate its targets by their changes of transcription levels in seed development. However, most miRNAs were found differentially expressed in the late stage of seed development, suggesting that miRNAs play more important roles in the stage when seed accumulating organic matters and suffering dehydration stress. This study presents the first large scale identification of high confidence miRNAs in the developing seeds of J. curcas.
Site-dependent fluorescence enhanced polymers with a self-restricted GFP chromophore for living cell imaging
Authors: Fan Wenbin , Deng Hongping , Zhu Lijuan , Tu Chunlai , Su Yue , Shi Leilei , Yang Jiapei , Zhou Linzhu , Xu Li , Zhu Xinyuan
Published: March 2019

Amphipathic copolymers with a self-restricted GFP chromophore sited on different locations were successfully synthesized, characterized and applied in cell imaging.
Correction: Metal-free tandem reaction synthesis of spiro-cyclopropyl fused pyrazolin-5-one derivatives
Authors: Liu Man , Liu Chen-Fei , Zhang Jing , Xu Yan-Jun , Dong Lin
Published: March 2019

Correction for ‘Metal-free tandem reaction synthesis of spiro-cyclopropyl fused pyrazolin-5-one derivatives’ by Man Liu et al., Org. Chem. Front., 2019, 6, 664–668.
Digitalisierung und Automatisierung: Robotik im Krankenhaus
Authors: Kriegel Johannes
Published: March 2019

Der Fachkräftemangel entpuppt sich zunehmend als treibende Kraft einer zunehmenden Digitalisierung im Krankenhauswesen. Gleichzeitig wird Robotik und Künstliche Intelligenz (KI) branchenübergreifend als zukunftsträchtiger Lösungsansatz gesehen. Die Krankenhauslogistik bietet sich dabei als ideales Anwendungsfeld an.
Predicting nitrogen mineralisation in Australian irrigated cotton cropping systems
Authors: Brackin Richard , Buckley Scott , Pirie Rhys , Visser Francois
Published: March 2019

Cotton cropping systems in Australia have poor nitrogen (N) use efficiency, largely due to over-application of N fertiliser. The N mineralisation from soil organic N reserves is often overlooked, or underestimated despite recent studies indicating that it may contribute the majority of N exported with the crop. Predicting N mineralisation is a major challenge for agricultural industries worldwide, as direct measurements are time-consuming and expensive, but there is considerable debate as to the most reliable methods for indirect estimation. Additionally, laboratory incubations assess potential (rather than actual) mineralisation, and may not be representative of N cycling rates in the field. We collected 177 samples from most major Australian cotton growing regions, and assessed their mineralisation potential using ex situ laboratory incubations, along with an assessment of potential indicators routinely measured in soil nutrient tests. Additionally, at three unfertilised sites we conducted in situ assessment of mineralisation by quantifying soil N at the beginning of the growing season, and soil and crop N at the end of the season. We found that Australian cotton cropping soils had substantial mineralisation potential, and that soil total N and total carbon were correlated with mineralisation, and have potential to be used for prediction. Other potential indicators such as carbon dioxide production and ammonium and nitrate concentrations were not correlated with mineralisation. In parallel studies of ex situ and in situ mineralisation, we found ex situ laboratory incubations overestimated mineralisation by 1.7 times on average. We discuss findings in terms of management implications for Australian cotton farming systems.
Community-Based Participatory Research: Ethical Considerations
Authors: Buchanan David R.
Published: March 2019

The conduct of community-based participatory research (CBPR) is a recent innovation in research designs aimed at identifying effective public health interventions. CBPR aims to maximize participation of affected populations in all phases of the research to fulfill three purposes: it is (1) a method for developing innovative interventions, (2) an intervention itself intended to change the respective partners positively as a result of their participation, and (3) a means to fulfill an ethical obligation. CBPR is most ethically significant for respecting community autonomy and providing protections from community-level harms, such as stigmatization of identifiable social groups, lost opportunity costs, and overcoming mistrust, which may lead to reluctance to participate in research and, hence, a lack of empirical data on potential adverse effects or benefits for certain social groups. Key unresolved issues include procedures for enlisting legitimate community representatives and the scope of their authority over the conduct of the research.
Biosecurity and Public Health Ethics Issues Raised by Biological Threats
Authors: Evans Nicholas , Inglesby Thomas
Published: March 2019

This chapter introduces ethical issues that arise in the context of biosecurity: policies and actions intended to prevent the development or emergence, or mitigate the consequences, of serious biological threats. These threats could include deliberate biological weapon attacks (bioterrorism), pandemics, emerging infectious diseases, or major laboratory accidents. The basic values that underpin these public health concerns are first introduced. Ethical issues that arise before, during, and following a biosecurity crisis are then examined, including issues of resource allocation, dual-use research, and the possibility of quarantine. Their resolution requires trade-offs among different ethical values, including utility, fairness, and liberty.
Natural and Industrial Disaster Events, Public Health, and Ethics
Authors: Fenton Elizabeth , Hanfling Dan
Published: March 2019

Disasters are a function of the intersection between hazards and human vulnerability. Often these events affect the most disadvantaged and marginalized members of society. This chapter examines the moral complexities of natural and industrial disasters in terms of responsibility and blame, and the ethical and practical importance of extensive community-driven emergency preparedness efforts. There is an ethical imperative to develop and implement strategies for reducing disaster risk by reducing vulnerabilities and mitigating hazards. Preparation for natural and industrial disasters should be viewed as a civic practice, guided by civic and social obligations to participate in preparedness activities as members of a community and to foster societal concern for the safety and well-being of others, especially the most vulnerable. Civic responsibility and social justice are particularly important ethical dimensions of emergency preparedness in the context of these types of disasters.
The Political Economy of Public Health: Challenges for Ethics
Authors: Schrecker Ted
Published: March 2019

As an analytical approach, the political economy of health “requires attention to the political and economic structures, processes and power relationships that produce” distributions of health and illness, in the words of epidemiologist Nancy Krieger. This chapter demonstrates the value of this approach with reference to domestic and global cases and is organized around three key messages. First, public finance is a public health issue. Second, the transnational corporate role in the spread of disease must be taken into account in public health ethics. Third, ethics and politics cannot be separated in public health. The chapter concludes with three challenges for building a public health ethics that “speaks truth about power” in an increasingly inhospitable policy environment.
Incorporating Ethics in Policy Change and Health Reform
Authors: Anderson Gerard F. , Ballreich Jeromie M. , Bhadelia Afsan
Published: March 2019

This chapter examines ethical considerations related to policy change and health reform, and contrasts ethical reasoning with the policy process. The chapter begins by defining two broad ethical approaches for health policy: a teleological approach and a deontological approach. These are then discussed with reference to specific key ethical considerations for health policy. The next section shows how ethical concerns can motivate policy change and health reform. Examples include health policies from the United States, Mexico, and India. The chapter ends with a discussion of a common model of the policy process and compares it to ethical reasoning.
The Limiting Role of Respect
Authors: Cureton Adam
Published: March 2019

People with disabilities sometimes feel disrespected by some of the ways that well-meaning people regard and treat them. Respect for something is often thought to involve understanding and acknowledging it, holding it in high regard and engaging with it. But there is another aspect of our ordinary idea of respect, one that involves resistance, reluctance, and limitation. Negative respect presumptively requires us to recognize and acknowledge respectful limits on how we treat others. Other aspects of human dignity, such as benevolence, appreciation, and positive respect, can provide competing presumptions about how to affirm the dignity of persons. We should nonetheless take seriously a general theme that underlies many kinds of legitimate complaints that disabled and non-disabled people have, which is that even well-meaning people sometimes overstep bounds of respect in the otherwise good and virtuous ways that they regard and treat those with disabilities.