bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of organophosphate‐induced brain injuries in a convulsive mouse model of diisopropylfluorophosphate exposure
Authors: Enderlin Julie , Igert Alexandre , Auvin Stéphane , Nachon Florian , Dal Bo Grégory , Dupuis Nina
Published: May 2020

Organophosphate (OP) compounds constitute a class of highly toxic molecules, characterized by irreversible cholinesterase (ChE) inhibition. Being either pesticides or chemical warfare agents, they present a major health issue in some countries, as well as a terrorist or military threat. Prompted by the need for suitable animal models to test novel medical countermeasures, we developed a new convulsive mouse model of OP poisoning using diisopropylfluorophosphate (DFP). Using electrocorticography (ECoG), we analyzed seizure and status epilepticus (SE) occurrences, as well as relative power of ECoG frequency band modifications after DFP injection in male Swiss mice. Next, we investigated DFP effect on ChE inhibition. Histological changes on neuronal activity and neuronal damage were examined by c‐Fos immunolabeling and Fluoro‐Jade C staining. We showed that mice exposed to DFP presented electrocorticographic seizures that rapidly progressed to SE within 20 minutes. Lasting >8 hours, DFP‐induced SE was associated with major power spectrum modifications in seizing DFP animals compared to control animals. Seizures and SE development were concomitant with profound ChE inhibition and induced massive neuronal degeneration. Presenting all hallmarks of convulsive OP poisoning, we showed that our mouse model is valuable for studying pathophysiological mechanisms and preclinical testing of newly available therapeutic molecules.
The Social Ecology of Parental Monitoring: Parent–Child Dynamics in a High‐Risk Peruvian Neighborhood
Authors: Pizarro Katherine W. , Surkan Pamela J. , Bustamante Inés V.
Published: May 2020

While parental monitoring is understood to protect adolescents from engaging in risk behaviors, little is known about how the family dynamics involved in parental monitoring differ across sociocultural contexts. We sought to gain an in‐depth understanding of parent–child relationship dynamics and parental knowledge of adolescents’ activities in an urban Peruvian neighborhood with high levels of crime and adolescent substance use. We conducted 15 in‐depth interviews and two focus groups with adolescents and 12 in‐depth interviews with mothers sampled from a secondary school in Callao, Peru. Our findings emphasize the importance of parent–child confianza (trust) as a foundation for parental awareness of adolescents’ lives and activities. Participants in our sample characterized confianza as encouraging adolescent disclosure and shaping how parental solicitation and rules were interpreted by adolescents. Participants described how confianza was rooted in features of the parent–child relationship, including shared parent–child time, parental affection, adolescent perceptions of parents’ ability to give good advice, and awareness of how parents would react to delicate topics. Participants linked these family dynamics, in turn, to economic hardship, parental feelings of sacrifice and stress, perceptions of neighborhood risk, and gender norms limiting fathers’ involvement in caregiving. Results have implications for the planning and adaptation of family‐based prevention programs for use in high‐risk contexts in Latin America.
A multidimensional framework for measuring biotic novelty: How novel is a community?
Authors: Schittko Conrad , Bernard‐Verdier Maud , Heger Tina , Buchholz Sascha , Kowarik Ingo , von der Lippe Moritz , Seitz Birgit , Joshi Jasmin , Jeschke Jonathan M.
Published: May 2020

Anthropogenic changes in climate, land use, and disturbance regimes, as well as introductions of non‐native species can lead to the transformation of many ecosystems. The resulting novel ecosystems are usually characterized by species assemblages that have not occurred previously in a given area. Quantifying the ecological novelty of communities (i.e., biotic novelty) would enhance the understanding of environmental change. However, quantification remains challenging since current novelty metrics, such as the number and/or proportion of non‐native species in a community, fall short of considering both functional and evolutionary aspects of biotic novelty. Here, we propose the Biotic Novelty Index (BNI), an intuitive and flexible multidimensional measure that combines (a) functional differences between native and non‐native introduced species with (b) temporal dynamics of species introductions. We show that the BNI is an additive partition of Rao's quadratic entropy, capturing the novel interaction component of the community's functional diversity. Simulations show that the index varies predictably with the relative amount of functional novelty added by recently arrived species, and they illustrate the need to provide an additional standardized version of the index. We present a detailed R code and two applications of the BNI by (a) measuring changes of biotic novelty of dry grassland plant communities along an urbanization gradient in a metropolitan region and (b) determining the biotic novelty of plant species assemblages at a national scale. The results illustrate the applicability of the index across scales and its flexibility in the use of data of different quality. Both case studies revealed strong connections between biotic novelty and increasing urbanization, a measure of abiotic novelty. We conclude that the BNI framework may help building a basis for better understanding the ecological and evolutionary consequences of global change.
Effect of dentine cutting efficiency on the lateral force created by torque‐controlled rotary instruments
Authors: Deari S. , Zehnder M. , Al‐Jadaa A.
Published: May 2020

Aim

To study the impact of dentine cutting efficiency of rotary instruments on the lateral force they create when instrumenting simulated root canals in bovine dentine.

Methodology

Lateral cutting efficiency of austenitic files (ProTaper Universal) was compared to that of counterparts of a reported identical geometrical design with a martensite phase component (ProTaper Gold) in bovine dentine disks (n = 6). Instrument shapes were studied using digital microscopy. The intracanal lateral force exerted by the two systems in simulated premolars (n = 9) made from bovine incisor roots containing a standardized narrow root canal of 16 mm length was monitored using a testing apparatus equipped with a torque‐controlled endodontic motor/handpiece. Data were compared using parametric statistics, alpha error = 0.05.

Results

The geometrical design of the two systems under investigation was found to be identical. The martensitic nickel‐titanium rotary files had a significantly (t‐test, P < 0.05) higher lateral cutting efficiency than austenitic counterparts. This difference, however, did not impact the lateral force that was created when instrumenting simulated premolar root canals. Furthermore, lateral force peaks were generated with the progressively tapered instruments under investigation towards the full working length. Even though a glide path was prepared, the first instrument in the full‐length sequence (S1) created the highest lateral force (anova/Tukey’s HSD, P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The current experimental set‐up allows the study of the lateral force generated during root canal instrumentation. This force was not influenced by the dentine cutting efficiency of the instruments under investigation, but rather by their geometrical design.
Scleromyxedema treatment: a systematic review and update
Authors: Haber Roger , Bachour Julien , El Gemayel Maria
Published: May 2020

Importance

Scleromyxedema is a chronic disease with high morbidity and mortality and no definitive therapeutic guidelines.

Objective

To review all available data on the efficacy and the safety of the available treatments of scleromyxedema and suggest a possible therapeutic approach.

Evidence Review

We performed a systematic literature review in Pubmed/Medline, Embase, and Cochrane collaboration databases, searching for all articles since 1990 on the treatments of scleromyxedema, with no limits on participant age, gender, or nationality.

Findings

Ninety‐seven studies were included in this systematic review, of which one prospective, two retrospective, 70 case reports/case series, and 24 letters/correspondence/clinical image. Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) was the most used first‐line therapy based on its efficacy and its generally well‐tolerated nature; most patients require continued treatment to remain in remission. Thalidomide and systemic glucocorticoids were mostly considered as second‐line therapies and were given alone or in association with IVIG. Patients with severe or refractory disease were treated with autologous bone marrow transplantation, melphalan, or bortezomib with dexamethasone.

Conclusions and Relevance

Consideration of patient comorbidities, disease distribution, clinician experience, and treatment accessibility is mandatory in every therapeutic approach of scleromyxedema.
Early ICD lead failure in defibrillator systems with multiple leads via cephalic access
Authors: Barbhaiya Chirag R. , Niazi Osama , Bostrom Jack , Patil Sachi , Jankelson Lior , Bernstein Scott , Park David , Holmes Douglas , Aizer Anthony , Chinitz Larry A.
Published: May 2020

Introduction

Implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) are proven to prevent sudden death in patients at elevated risk for sustained ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation. Complications related to ICD failure can stem from lead dysfunction, manufacturing defects, patient characteristics, or implantation technique. We conducted a review of all ICD leads implanted at our center from 2011 to 2017 to determine risk factors for premature lead failure.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of patients of all ICD leads implanted from December 2011 to June 2017 at our institution. A total of 660 patients (Biotronik Linox S/SD, n = 281; Sprint Quatro, n = 207; Durata, n = 121; Endotak, n = 51) underwent ICD implantations. Patient and lead characteristics, procedural outcomes and complications were recorded. Lead failure was defined per Heart Rhythm Society lead‐management consensus as a lack of procedural or clinical success, thus requiring an extraction of the lead. Patient and lead outcomes were recorded and variables associated with lead failure were assessed by the Kaplan‐Meier method.

Results

Overall failure rate was similar for all leads: Linox S/SD—0.29%/year; Sprint Quattro—0.21%/year, Durata—0.39%/year and Endotak Reliance—0.0% (P = .769). No difference was found in overall survival when comparing all ICD manufacturers during the study period. Subgroup analysis revealed the risk of premature lead failure was particularly pronounced in multi‐lead ICD systems implanted via cephalic access (P < .001). The estimated failure rate of Linox leads implanted via cephalic access in multi‐lead systems was 19%/year. The estimated failure rate of non‐Linox leads implanted via cephalic access in multi‐lead systems was 11%/year. Neither age, nor gender were risk factors for lead failure in the Linox, or non‐Linox cohorts.

Conclusion

All analyzed ICD leads were found to have a similar overall risk of premature failure. ICD lead implantation via cephalic access in multilead ICD systems may be a previously unidentified risk factor for premature ICD lead failure, although these findings require further validation.
Ginger essential oil nanoemulsions: Preparation and physicochemical characterization and antibacterial activities evaluation
Authors: Firoozi Mitra , Rezapour‐Jahani Saeid , Shahvegharasl Zahra , Anarjan Navideh
Published: May 2020

The aim of this study was the preparation of ginger (Zingiber officinale) essential oil nanoemulsions through the bottom up solvent displacement technique. The effects of main processing parameters, namely, the homogenization and evaporation rotating speeds at solvent removing step were also evaluated on mean particle size, polydispersity (PDI), zeta potential, turbidity, antioxidant, and antibacterial activities against S. aurous and E. coli of gained nanoemulsions, using response surface method (RSM). The ginger essential oil nanoemulsions were successfully synthesized, in the particle sizes ranged from 68 to 1,035 nm. The second polynomial models were then suggested in order to predict the studied response characteristics by selected process independent parameters. The multiple graphical optimization suggested that using mixing the organic and aqueous phases in the ranges of 800–1,000 rpm and rotating evaporator at the speeds from 75 to 85 rpm would lead to production of the most desirable nanoemulsions. The observed insignificant differences between the experimental data and calculated ones by models confirmed the suitability and accuracy of suggested models. Thus, it was concluded that the prepared nano‐sized ginger essential oil can be effectively used in several food systems as preservative or flavor modifier agent.

Practical Applications

The ginger essential oil nanoemulsions were fabricated through a cost effective and simple nano‐precipitation technique and the gained nano‐sized, water dispersible, chemically stabilized product with desired flavor and good either antioxidant or antibacterial activities, can be successfully used in various food and beverage formulations as preserver, nutrition enhancer and flavor.
Measurements of Density and Sound Speed in Mixtures Relevant to Supercritical CO2 Cycles
Authors: Park Suhyeon , Urso Justin , Manikantachari K.R.V. (Raghu) , Hosangadi Ashvin , Zambon Andrea , Vasu Subith S.
Published: May 2020

The objective of this research is to validate properties of mixtures relevant to supercritical carbon dioxide (sCO2) power cycles. Direct-fired sCO2 cycles are a promising technology for the future power generation systems. The working fluid of sCO2 cycles will be near and above critical point of CO2. One of the challenges is that the simulation of mixtures should consider real gas behavior. Expected operating conditions of Allam cycles reach up to 300 bar and 1000 °C. Characterizing the mixtures at the extreme conditions is an important issue in current researches and industrial applications. Thermophysical properties of mixtures may be beyond the valid range of the widely used database such as NIST REFPROP. Experimental data of mixture properties in the literature are limited which is necessary to develop high-fidelity design tools for sCO2 power cycles. We measured the density and sound speed of several multi-component mixtures. A temperature-controlled high-pressure test cell was used for the density measurements. Sound speed was measured by resonant frequency detection using an external speaker and a piezoelectric pressure sensor. Mixtures studied in this work include carbon dioxide, methane, oxygen, and water vapor. Properties of pure CO2 were measured to show the validity of our technique. Compositions were selected to be close to frozen mixtures at the inlet, mid-progress, and exhaust conditions of a model sCO2 combustor in the previous numerical simulation work. Corresponding reaction progress variables (RPV) were RPV = 0, 0.5, and 1. Temperature and pressure conditions of experiments are 310–450 K and 0–150 bar. In our study, density and sound speed from the NIST REFPROP database agree with experimental measurements within the range of our measurement uncertainties.
Supplemental Material: Thermotectonic evolution of the Paleozoic granites along the Shangdan suture zone (central China): Crustal growth and differentiation by magma underplating in an orogenic belt
Authors: Qin Jiang-Feng
Published: May 2020

Table S1: mineral chemistry; Table S2: zircon U-Pb age; Table S3: major-trace element; Table S4: Sr-Nd isotope; Table S5: zircon Lu-Hf; Table S6: zircon log fO2 value; Table S7: summarize table.
Diagnosing and treating ringworm in horses
Authors: Durham Andy
Published: May 2020

Background: Skin diseases are one of the most common conditions seen in horses, with dermatophytosis – ringworm – making up a large proportion of dermatology cases.

Aim of the article: The article provides a guide on how to diagnose ringworm in horses, and discusses some of the treatment options available.
Do N-Terminal Pro-C-Type Natriuretic Peptide Levels Relate to Severity of Preeclampsia?
Authors: Vatansever Dogan , Vatansever Pınar , Giray Burak , Ertekin A. Aktug , Bilsel Serpil
Published: May 2020

Aim. To compare the plasma N-terminal pro-C-type natriuretic peptide concentrations of normotensive pregnant women, patients with mild preeclampsia, and patients with severe preeclampsia. Methods. We collected venous blood samples from 25 normotensive pregnant women, 15 patients with mild preeclampsia, and 15 patients with severe preeclampsia. The women were at 30th to 40th weeks of gestation and in an age range of 20 to 35. The N-terminal pro-C-type natriuretic peptide levels were measured by ELISA. Statistical comparisons were made by one-way analysis of variance, Kruskal–Wallis, and Mann–Whitney U tests. Results. The median (interquartile range-IQR) values of the N-terminal pro-C-type natriuretic peptide were 6.48 (3.33) pmol/L in the normotensive women group, 7.37 (3.43) pmol/L in patients with mild preeclampsia, and 11.52 (6.13) pmol/L in patients with severe preeclampsia. The N-terminal pro-C-type natriuretic peptide was significantly elevated in the severe preeclampsia study group (P<0.001), whereas there was no significant difference between those with mild preeclampsia and the normotensive groups (P>0.05). Conclusion. Our data indicate that the plasma concentration of the N-terminal pro-C-type natriuretic peptide is significantly increased in patients with severe preeclampsia, but not in patients with mild preeclampsia. The severity of preeclampsia may be related to the circulating levels of the N-terminal pro-C-type natriuretic peptide concentrations.
Ab Initio High-Pressure Study of Semiconductor-Metal Phase Transition of the Chalcogenide Compound KPSe6
Authors: Jomo P. O. , Otieno C. O. , Nyawere P. W. O.
Published: May 2020

We report the results of pressure-induced semiconductor-metal phase transition of the semiconducting chalcogenide compound KPSe6 under high pressure using the ab initio methods. The ground-state energy calculations were performed within density functional theory and the generalized gradient approximation using the pseudopotential method with plane-wave basis sets. The projector augmented-wave (PAW) pseudopotentials were used in our calculation. The optimized lattice parameters were found from total energy calculations as 13 Bohr, 1.6 Bohr, and 1.8 Bohr for cell dimensions one, two, and three, respectively, which are in good agreement with experimental calculations. At zero pressure, the material portrayed a semiconducting property with a direct bandgap of ≈1.7 eV. As we subjected the material to pressure, the band gap was observed to reduce until it disappeared. The phase transition from the semiconductor to metal was found to occur at ∼45 GPa, implying that the material underwent metallization as pressure was increased further.
Reevaluation of Lung Injury in TNF-Induced Shock: The Role of the Acid Sphingomyelinase
Authors: Reiss Lucy K. , Raffetseder Ute , Gibbert Lydia , Drescher Hannah K. , Streetz Konrad L. , Schwarz Agatha , Martin Christian , Uhlig Stefan , Adam Dieter
Published: May 2020

Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) is a well-known mediator of sepsis. In many cases, sepsis results in multiple organ injury including the lung with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). More than 20-year-old studies have suggested that TNF may be directly responsible for organ injury during sepsis. However, these old studies are inconclusive, because they relied on human rather than conspecific TNF, which was contaminated with endotoxin in most studies. In this study, we characterized the direct effects of intravenous murine endotoxin-free TNF on cardiovascular functions and organ injury in mice with a particular focus on the lungs. Because of the relevance of the acid sphingomyelinase in sepsis, ARDS, and caspase-independent cell death, we also included acid sphingomyelinase-deficient (ASM-/-) mice. ASM-/-and wild-type (WT) mice received 50 μg endotoxin-free murine TNF intravenously alone or in combination with the pan-caspase inhibitor carbobenzoxy-valyl-alanyl-aspartyl-[O-methyl]-fluoromethylketone (zVAD) and were ventilated at low tidal volume while lung mechanics were followed. Blood pressure was stabilized by intra-arterial fluid support, and body temperature was kept at 37°C to delay lethal shock and to allow investigation of blood gases, lung histopathology, proinflammatory mediators, and microvascular permeability 6 hours after TNF application. Besides the lungs, also the kidneys and liver were examined. TNF elicited the release of inflammatory mediators and a high mortality rate, but failed to injure the lungs, kidneys, or liver of healthy mice significantly within 6 hours. Mortality in WT mice was most likely due to sepsis-like shock, as indicated by metabolic acidosis, high procalcitonin levels, and cardiovascular failure. ASM-/-mice were protected from TNF-induced hypotension and reflex tachycardia and also from mortality. In WT mice, intravenous exogenous TNF does not cause organ injury but induces a systemic inflammatory response with cardiovascular failure, in which the ASM plays a role.
Calprotectin as a New Sensitive Marker of Neutrophilic Inflammation in Patients with Bronchiolitis Obliterans
Authors: Jerkic S. P. , Michel F. , Donath H. , Herrmann E. , Schubert R. , Rosewich M. , Zielen S.
Published: May 2020

Introduction. Bronchiolitis obliterans (BO) is a chronic disease in which persistent inflammation leads to obstruction and obliteration of the small airways. The aim of this study was to evaluate the value of calprotectin as an inflammatory marker in induced sputum.Methods. Twenty-eight patients suffering from BO and 18 healthy controls were examined. Lung function was measured by spirometry, body plethysmography, and lung clearance index (LCI). The induced sputum was obtained, cell counts were performed, and cytokines were measured using cytometric bead array (CBA). Calprotectin was quantified in the sputum and serum samples using commercially available sandwich ELISA.Results. Spirometry parameters including forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1), and maximum expiratory flow rate at 25% vital capacity (MEF25) were significantly lower in BO patients than in healthy controls, whereas the reserve volume (RV), RV to total lung capacity ratio (RV/TLC), and LCI were significantly increased. In sputum, calprotectin levels, neutrophils, and IL-8 were significantly elevated. Calprotectin levels correlated strongly with IL-8 and other biomarkers, neutrophils FEV1 and MEF25. In serum, calprotectin was significantly diminished in BO patients compared to controls.Conclusion. Lung function is severely impaired in BO patients. Calprotectin is significantly elevated in the sputum of BO patients and reflects ongoing neutrophilic inflammation.
Stability Analysis of a Class of Neural Networks with State-Dependent State Delay
Authors: Chen Yue , Zhang Jin-E
Published: May 2020

The differential equations with state-dependent delay are very important equations because they can describe some problems in the real world more accurately. Due to the complexity of state-dependent delay, it also brings challenges to the research. The value of delay varying with the state is the difference between state-dependent delay and time-dependent delay. It is impossible to know exactly in advance how far historical state information is needed, and then the problem of state-dependent delay is more complicated compared with time-dependent delay. The dominating work of this paper is to solve the stability problem of neural networks equipped with state-dependent state delay. We use the purely analytical method to deduce the sufficient conditions for local exponential stability of the zero solution. Finally, a few numerical examples are presented to prove the availability of our results.
Face Detection and Segmentation Based on Improved Mask R-CNN
Authors: Lin Kaihan , Zhao Huimin , Lv Jujian , Li Canyao , Liu Xiaoyong , Chen Rongjun , Zhao Ruoyan
Published: May 2020

Deep convolutional neural networks have been successfully applied to face detection recently. Despite making remarkable progress, most of the existing detection methods only localize each face using a bounding box, which cannot segment each face from the background image simultaneously. To overcome this drawback, we present a face detection and segmentation method based on improved Mask R-CNN, named G-Mask, which incorporates face detection and segmentation into one framework aiming to obtain more fine-grained information of face. Specifically, in this proposed method, ResNet-101 is utilized to extract features, RPN is used to generate RoIs, and RoIAlign faithfully preserves the exact spatial locations to generate binary mask through Fully Convolution Network (FCN). Furthermore, Generalized Intersection over Union (GIoU) is used as the bounding box loss function to improve the detection accuracy. Compared with Faster R-CNN, Mask R-CNN, and Multitask Cascade CNN, the proposed G-Mask method has achieved promising results on FDDB, AFW, and WIDER FACE benchmarks.
Imperial Art and Power in the Liternum Episode of Silius Italicus’ Punica
Authors: Kozák Dániel
Published: May 2020

The paper is concerned with Silius’ double ecphrasis of a Roman monument of the First Punic War at Liternum, and Hannibal’s planned counter-monument (Sil. 6.653-716). It is suggested that these are compared as parts of commemorative networks rather than as standalone memorials: ambiguities in Hannibal’s speech can be interpreted as hints that he might be planning a series of monuments, while the Roman monument is described as ‘secondary’ in relation to memorials in Rome. Significantly, the Roman monument stands outside the capital, thus the Roman conquest of Italy provides additional context for its interpretation. Although the local point of view is suppressed in the episode, other passages provide analogies for what local interpretations of the Roman monument might look like in the world of the Punica.
The Manuscripts of the Scholia to the Hesiodic Aspis
Authors: Panegyres Konstantine
Published: May 2020

This paper presents a collation and investigation of some manuscripts of Ioannes Pediasimus’ scholia paraphrastica to the Hesiodic Aspis. The paper demonstrates that the editions currently used by scholars are based on an insecure textual foundation.
Tree rubbing by Asian black bears (Ursus thibetanus) in conifer plantations in Okutama Mountain in Japan
Authors: Ogawa Yoh , Tochigi Kahoko , Naganuma Tomoko , Dewi Bainah Sari , Koike Shinsuke
Published: May 2020

Tree rubbing by bears is a well-known behavior, but the behavior has not been investigated systematically in Asian black bears. We installed automatic cameras at trees in planted conifer forests to visually document rubbing behavior and to compare the findings with the results of earlier studies. All trees with bear hair attached had bark damaged from antler sharpening by deer and had secreted resin. Between 2011 and 2015, tree rubbing was observed at five of the 16 trees at which automatic cameras had been installed, with a total of 22 visits by multiple bears. Rubbing was observed from May to October. In the 22 visits, several bears with several attributes (adult male, another male, and mother with cub) visited the same trees to rub them. In our survey, the number of observational confirmations was limited, therefore in order to investigate the factors of Asian black bear’s tree-rubbing behavior and determine whether it is the same as in other bears or not, it is desirable to collect further examples of rubbing behavior as well as genetic information of the rubbing individual.
Digital Literacies for Ministry: A Qualitative Study of Theological Educators Preparing Students for New Media Engagement
Authors: Oliver Kyle Matthew , Williams-Duncan Stacy , Kimball Elisabeth M.
Published: May 2020

The proliferation of religious and spiritual practices in new media spaces presents challenges and opportunities for religious leaders—and for the people who train them. This article reports on an interview-based study of theological educators actively engaged in preparing their students with skills and experiences for online engagement. We present and discuss seven digital literacies for ministry that emerged from our thematic analysis of transcript data and were subsequently refined with a subset of study participants. We conclude with a brief discussion of new initiatives this research has prompted.
Meanings of Tourist Souvenirs: From the Holiday Experience to Everyday Life
Authors: Masset Julie , Decrop Alain
Published: May 2020

Even though research on tourist souvenirs is quite extensive, it fails to provide a holistic and in-depth perspective on their meanings and their evolution in time and space. Through a symbolic interactionist perspective, the current research aims at filling this gap. We conducted a longitudinal study combining interviews, projective techniques, and observations. Our findings provide a holistic and dynamic approach to tourist souvenirs’ meanings by emphasizing their temporal and spatial evolution through three processes. First, we suggest that decontextualization effects and the negative perceptions of some souvenirs may prevent them from entering home. Second, we consider the spatiality of souvenirs within different home areas depending on the meanings they hold for their owners. We also show that the souvenirs’ meaningfulness can also be reactivated over time. Third, we emphasize ways meaningless souvenirs may leave the home sphere. Finally, we discuss managerial suggestions and propose avenues of future research.
Beyond intersubjectivity in olfactory psychophysics I: Troubles with the Subject
Authors: Alač Morana
Published: May 2020

This article provides an experience-oriented relational account that goes beyond a human control of the world. Rather than working with the notion of intersubjectivity (commonly evoked in sensory STS, and still conserving the subject/object opposition), the article reports on how the sense of smell affords a rethinking of our relationship with the world. It does so by challenging the assumption of olfactory ineffability as it turns to a place whose inhabitants speak about smell as a part of their everyday affairs: a laboratory of olfactory psychophysics. There, we attend to a multimodal, embodied language that participates in preparing, running and analyzing scientific experiments. While Western languages are short on specialized vocabulary for expressing olfactory qualities and it feels difficult to talk about smell, laboratory events manifest smell language in its enmeshing with the sensory realm and the world. Noticing these ties destabilizes the idea of agential subject, highlighting instead our pre-intentional sensibility, in its connection with the world. A sister article on ‘troubles with the Object’ (Alač, 2020) continues to argue that the notion of intersubjectivity is overly narrow, highlighting our immersion in the world (rather than assuming our dominance of it).
Are Cold Filter Plugging Point and Cloud Point reliable enough to prevent cold-start operability problems in vehicles using biodiesel blends?
Authors: Barba J , Lapuerta M , Cardeño F , Hernández JJ
Published: May 2020

Despite being subjected to tight sustainability restrictions in the last decade (Directives 2009-28-CE, 2015-1513-CE, and EU-2018-2001), the use of biodiesel in compression ignition engines is still increasing in the European Union. As known, one of the main drawbacks of biodiesel is cold flow behavior, along with oxidation stability problems. According to European standards, the Cold Filter Plugging Point and Cloud Point methods are the ones used to ensure diesel vehicle operability in temperate and arctic climates, respectively, within the EU. Despite the existing standards, several issues related to startability have occurred in the northern European countries due to filter clogging. In this frame, this study checks the reliability of the conventional Cold Filter Plugging Point and Cloud Point tests by comparing their results with those coming from an experimental rig that simulates the low-pressure fuel circuit of a diesel vehicle. Baseline diesel was blended with two biodiesel fuels (7% and 10% by volume) produced from palm oil. Regardless of the fuel used and the blend (B7 or B10), Cold Filter Plugging Point and Cloud Point methods underestimate the temperature at which the filter clogging occurs compared to real conditions, these differences being as significant as 4°C when compared to Cold Filter Plugging Point and Cloud Point, respectively. Results obtained encourage either searching for more reliable standards to quantify the cold flow behavior of biodiesel fuels or limiting the maximum content of the main compounds causing cold-start problems.
Caught in the Act: Predicting Cheating in Unproctored Knowledge Assessment
Authors: Steger Diana , Schroeders Ulrich , Wilhelm Oliver
Published: May 2020

Cheating is a serious threat in unproctored ability assessment, irrespective of countermeasures taken, anticipated consequences (high vs. low stakes), and test modality (paper-pencil vs. computer-based). In the present study, we examined the power of (a) self-report-based indicators (i.e., Honesty-Humility and Overclaiming scales), (b) test data (i.e., performance with extremely difficult items), and (c) para data (i.e., reaction times, switching between browser tabs) to predict participants’ cheating behavior. To this end, 315 participants worked on a knowledge test in an unproctored online assessment and subsequently in a proctored lab assessment. We used multiple regression analysis and an extended latent change score model to assess the potential of the different indicators to predict cheating. In summary, test data and para data performed best, while traditional self-report-based indicators were not predictive. We discuss the findings with respect to unproctored testing in general and provide practical advice on cheating detection in online ability assessments.
A point absorber wave energy converter with nonlinear hardening spring power-take-off systems in regular waves
Authors: Zheng Zhongqiang , Yao Zhipeng , Chang Zongyu , Yao Tao , Liu Bo
Published: May 2020

Point absorber wave energy converter is one of the most effective wave energy harness devices. Most of the wave energy converters generate energy by oscillating the floating body. Usually, the power-take-off system is simplified as a linear spring and a linear damper. However, the narrow frequency bandwidth around a particular resonant frequency is not suitable for real vibrations applications. Thus, a nonlinear hardening spring and a linear damper are applied in the power-take-off system. The bandwidth of hardening mechanism is discussed. The dynamic model of wave energy converter is built in regular waves with time domain method. The results show that the nonlinear wave energy converter has higher conversion efficiency than the linear wave energy converter more than the natural frequency state. The conversion efficiency of the nonlinear wave energy converter in the low frequency state is closed to the linear converter. The amplitude of the incident wave, the damping of the nonlinear wave energy converter and the nonlinear parameter [Formula: see text] affect the energy capture performance of the wave energy converter.
Complexity Faced by Legal Clinics in Afghanistan: Addressing the Challenges
Authors: Hosseini Seyed Ali
Published: May 2020

This article studies the burgeoning legal clinics in Afghanistan and describes the complexity that influences their effectiveness and accessibility. This complexity arises from conflicts among statutory law, Sharia and customary laws, exacerbated by the dual legal education in law and Sharia faculties in the highly challenging environment of the country. The main objective of this qualitative research is to illustrate these challenges faced by pro bono legal aid and legal clinics, and its main claim is that unsettled conflicts between statutory law, Sharia and customs and between legal education systems negatively affect legal aid provision in the country. Legal education, provided by faculties of law and Sharia to suit the aims of the two recognized legal systems of statutory law and Sharia, is considered the internal challenge to the clinical legal service, and the highly adverse environment in which legal clinics operate is considered the external challenge. Since some of the external challenges are related to traditional dispute resolution mechanisms, they are inevitably related to legal and legal education systems, and hence, addressing them improves the effectiveness of the legal clinics. This research uses available data to support its claims. As part of a sustainable solution to the acute shortage of legal aid throughout Afghanistan, legal education should emphasize practical aspects of law, improve curricular development in both law and Sharia faculties, train more female lawyers, use more broadly accepted frameworks of human rights and social justice and highlight the values of voluntarism.
Complete genome sequencing and comparative genomic analyses of Bacillus sp. S3, a novel hyper Sb(III)-oxidizing bacterium
Authors: Li Jiaokun , Gu Tianyuan , Li Liangzhi , Wu Xueling , Shen Li , Yu Runlan , Liu Yuandong , Qiu Guanzhou , Zeng Weimin
Published: May 2020

Background

Antimonite [Sb(III)]-oxidizing bacterium has great potential in the environmental bioremediation of Sb-polluted sites. Bacillus sp. S3 that was previously isolated from antimony-contaminated soil displayed high Sb(III) resistance and Sb(III) oxidation efficiency. However, the genomic information and evolutionary feature of Bacillus sp. S3 are very scarce.

Results

Here, we identified a 5,436,472 bp chromosome with 40.30% GC content and a 241,339 bp plasmid with 36.74% GC content in the complete genome of Bacillus sp. S3. Genomic annotation showed that Bacillus sp. S3 contained a key aioB gene potentially encoding As (III)/Sb(III) oxidase, which was not shared with other Bacillus strains. Furthermore, a wide variety of genes associated with Sb(III) and other heavy metal (loid) s were also ascertained in Bacillus sp. S3, reflecting its adaptive advantage for growth in the harsh eco-environment. Based on the analysis of phylogenetic relationship and the average nucleotide identities (ANI), Bacillus sp. S3 was proved to a novel species within the Bacillus genus. The majority of mobile genetic elements (MGEs) mainly distributed on chromosomes within the Bacillus genus. Pan-genome analysis showed that the 45 genomes contained 554 core genes and many unique genes were dissected in analyzed genomes. Whole genomic alignment showed that Bacillus genus underwent frequently large-scale evolutionary events. In addition, the origin and evolution analysis of Sb(III)-resistance genes revealed the evolutionary relationships and horizontal gene transfer (HGT) events among the Bacillus genus. The assessment of functionality of heavy metal (loid) s resistance genes emphasized its indispensable role in the harsh eco-environment of Bacillus genus. Real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) analysis indicated that Sb(III)-related genes were all induced under the Sb(III) stress, while arsC gene was down-regulated.

Conclusions

The results in this study shed light on the molecular mechanisms of Bacillus sp. S3 coping with Sb(III), extended our understanding on the evolutionary relationships between Bacillus sp. S3 and other closely related species, and further enriched the Sb(III) resistance genetic data sources.
Genomic heterogeneity of Dichelobacter nodosus within and between UK sheep flocks and between age groups within a flock
Authors: Davies P. L. , Blanchard A. M. , Staley C. E. , Bollard N. J. , Coffey T. J. , Tötemeyer S.
Published: May 2020

Background

Footrot and interdigital dermatitis are endemic infectious diseases in all sheep farming regions, impairing welfare and production. The development of efficacious vaccines against the primary causative pathogen has been hampered by the extensive antigenic diversity of Dichelobacter nodosus. Understanding the heterogeneity of the pathogen within and between flocks is essential if the feasibility of bespoke vaccine production is to be assessed for use in the U.K.

Results

In this study 56 ewe and lamb isolates from 9 flocks were compared by D. nodosus serogroup and Multi Locus Sequence Type which provides significantly enhanced discriminatory power for molecular epidemiology. Serogroup heterogeneity between flocks ranged from two to five unique serogroups per flock. Three flocks contained isolates of two serogroups, two flocks contained isolates of three serogroups and one flock included isolates of five serogroups. Analysis of 25 isolates from one flock with high prevalence of lameness, identified that serogroup and sequence type was significantly correlated with age. Significantly higher proportion of lambs were infected with serogroup B (principally ST85) as opposed to serogroup H (principally ST86), which predominated amongst adult sheep.

Conclusions

Genomic heterogeneity of the pathogen was significantly lower within flock compared to heterogenicity observed between flocks. Furthermore, this study indicates that within a flock, the host-pathogen dynamics and susceptibility to particular D. nodosus strains may be age dependent.
Exposure to baby-friendly hospital practices and mothers’ achievement of their planned duration of breastfeeding
Authors: Lok Kris Y. W. , Chow Charlotte L. Y. , Fan Heidi S. L. , Chan Vincci H. S. , Tarrant Marie
Published: May 2020

Background

Both breastfeeding intentions and exposure to baby-friendly hospital practices were found to be associated with a longer duration of breastfeeding. This study aims to examine the effect of exposure to baby-friendly hospital practices on mothers’ achievement of their planned duration of breastfeeding.

Methods

A total of 1011 mother-newborn pairs from the postnatal units of four public hospitals in Hong Kong were recruited. Sociodemographic data and breastfeeding intention data were collected via self-report questionnaires during the postnatal hospitalization and exposure to Baby-Friendly hospital practices were assessed through hospital records and maternal self-report. Breastfeeding status after hospital discharge was assessed through telephone follow-up for up to 12 months postnatal, or until participants were no longer breastfeeding.

Results

Only 55% (n = 552) of study participants achieved their intended duration of breastfeeding. Participants with higher socioeconomic status, previous breastfeeding experience, and those who had lived in Hong Kong for less than 5 years, were more likely to achieve their planned duration of breastfeeding. Among baby-friendly hospital practices, feeding only breast milk during the hospitalization and providing information about breastfeeding support on discharge were associated with participants’ achieving their individual breastfeeding intentions. After adjustment, when compared with women who experienced onebaby-friendly practice, participants who experienced six baby-friendly hospital practices were significantly more likely to achieve their planned duration of breastfeeding (adjusted odds ratio = 8.45, 95% confidence interval 3.03–23.6).

Conclusions

Nearly half of participants did not achieve their planned breastfeeding duration. Exposure to baby-friendly hospital practices, especially in-hospital exclusive breastfeeding and providing breastfeeding support information upon hospital discharge may help more mothers to achieve their individual breastfeeding goals.
Sensitive detection methods are key to identify secondary EGFR c.2369C>T p.(Thr790Met) in non-small cell lung cancer tissue samples
Authors: Keppens Cleo , Dequeker Elisabeth M. C. , Rouleau Etienne , ’t Hart Nils , Bubendorf Lukas , Dufraing Kelly , Garrec Céline , Guéguen Paul , Lamy Aude , Marchetti Antonio , Pauwels Patrick , Ryska Ales , Tack Véronique , Tornillo Luigi , Van Casteren Kaat , von der Thüsen Jan H. , Zwaenepoel Karen , Lissenberg-Witte Birgit , Thunnissen Erik , Schuuring Ed
Published: May 2020

Background

Correct identification of the EGFR c.2369C>T p.(Thr790Met) variant is key to decide on a targeted therapeutic strategy for patients with acquired EGFR TKI resistance in non-small cell lung cancer. The aim of this study was to evaluate the correct detection of this variant in 12 tumor tissue specimens tested by 324 laboratories participating in External Quality Assessment (EQA) schemes.

Methods

Data from EQA schemes were evaluated between 2013 and 2018 from cell lines (6) and resections (6) containing the EGFR c.2369C>T p.(Thr790Met) mutation. Adequate performance was defined as the percentage of tests for which an outcome was available and correct. Additional data on the used test method were collected from the participants. Chi-squared tests on contingency tables and a biserial rank correlation were applied by IBM SPSS Statistics version 25 (IBM, Armonk, NY, USA).

Results

In 26 of the 1190 tests (2.2%) a technical failure occurred. For the remaining 1164 results, 1008 (86.6%) were correct, 151 (12.9%) were false-negative and 5 (0.4%) included incorrect mutations. Correct p.(Thr790Met) detection improved over time and for repeated scheme participations. In-house non-next-generation sequencing (NGS) techniques performed worse (81.1%, n = 293) compared to non-NGS commercial kits (85.2%, n = 656) and NGS (97.0%, n = 239). Over time there was an increase in the users of NGS. Resection specimens performed worse (82.6%, n = 610 tests) compared to cell line material (90.9%, n = 578 tests), except for NGS (96.3%, n = 344 for resections and 98.6%, n = 312 for cell lines). Samples with multiple mutations were more difficult compared to samples with the single p.(Thr790Met) variant. A change of the test method was shown beneficial to reduce errors but introduced additional analysis failures.

Conclusions

A significant number of laboratories that offer p.(Thr790Met) testing did not detect this relevant mutation compared to the other EQA participants. However, correct identification of this variant is improving over time and was higher for NGS users. Revising the methodology might be useful to resolve errors, especially for resection specimens with low frequency or multiple variants. EQA providers should include challenging resections in the scheme.