bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design Principles of the Anode–Electrolyte Interface for All Solid‐State Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Shen Zeyu , Zhang Weidong , Zhu Guannan , Huang Yiqiang , Feng Qi , Lu Yingying
Published: October 2019

All solid‐state lithium metal batteries (ASSLMBs) provide a promising solution for next‐generation rechargeable energy storage due to their high energy density and the high safety of solid‐state electrolytes (SSEs). However, most SSEs lack thermodynamic intrinsic stability against Li metal and chemical reactions happen spontaneously at the interface when solid‐state electrolytes are in contact with Li metal. An imperfect anode–electrolyte interface is a major hidden danger which restricts electrochemical performances and practical applications of full cells. This review comprehensively analyzes main challenges for anode–electrolyte interfaces in ASSLMBs including poor chemical or electrochemical compatibility, poor ion transport at the interface, and mechanical instability. Exiting strategies focusing on interface engineering are summarized and merits and nonmerits of each method are discussed objectively. The principles and outlooks of interface design are proposed. Meanwhile, advanced characterization and mass production technology are also brought forward to drive the in‐depth study and development of ASSLMBs.
Time from injection of luteinizing hormone‐releasing hormone analog affects sperm quality in the critically endangered Mississippi gopher frog (Lithobates sevosus)
Authors: Watt Ashley Michelle , Marcec‐Greaves Ruth , Pitcher Trevor Edgar
Published: October 2019

The objective of this study was to investigate variation in sperm quality metrics (motility, velocity, and concentration) in the critically endangered Mississippi gopher frog (Lithobates sevosus) over three sampling time points after a luteinizing hormone‐releasing hormone analog (LHRHa) induction injection. Sperm was repeatedly collected from 11 individuals over three sampling times (30, 60, and 120 min) after injection. Variation in sperm quality was investigated using a repeated‐measures mixed model approach. Repeated measures analyses of variance showed a significant effect of sampling time for percent motility and velocity. Concentration was found to be marginally related to sampling time, while progressive motility was not significantly related to time after injection. Our findings are important for optimizing assisted reproduction‐related fertilization success and increasing the successful propagation of endangered species of imperiled frogs in captive breeding programs.
Conclusions: Perspectives and Puzzles in Researching Politics of (Dis)Integration
Authors: Zentai Violetta
Published: October 2019

The chapter reflects upon the main arguments that have been presented in the volume. It is acknowledged that the volume as a whole uncovers how integration governance embodies as well as generates conceptual, political and policy formations in various domains of societal affairs. The authors’ insights are reviewed on the construction of policy frames, hierarchising practices and everyday acts of (dis)integration. It is also discussed how the chapters experiment on three major conceptual and methodological puzzles. First, the chapters translate the concept of integration to an analytical device by teasing out the relations between migration and other societal affairs. Second, the authors act upon the critique of methodological nationalism by continuing to dwell on the nation-state as a centre of politics and policy mechanisms that shape disintegration practices and experiences. Third, the volume contemplates on normative and critical positions which differentiate policy actions and critical social research. Genuine concerns are linked in the volume and the broader literature for the weakening of mechanisms for protecting human dignity, rights and equal citizenship in Europe and beyond.
Jewish Immigrants in Israel: Disintegration Within Integration?
Authors: Desille Amandine
Published: October 2019

Israel’s immigration policy, the Law of Return (1950), provides that Jews can immigrate to Israel and immediately obtain citizenship. The Law of Return therefore establishes an ‘ethno-nationalist citizenship’ which includes all Jews in the world but is restricted to Jews only. Yet, the immigration of Jews to Israel was never fully inclusive: Israel has often restricted the immigration of Jewish members of the diaspora who were considered to be socioeconomic burdens. The chapter examines more recent transformations of the Law of Return in a context of liberalisation of the Israeli economy and the devolution of power to local authorities. In fact, new immigrants follow two paths of integration: ‘direct absorption’ – whereby immigrants are granted benefits while being free to settle wherever they wish – and ‘community absorption’ – where immigrants are placed in ‘absorption centres’ and see their entitlements conditioned by residence, religious observance etc. These two paths strongly depend on nationality: Western immigrants, considered as economically useful, benefit from direct absorption and a more pluralist attitude of local governments; whereas immigrants from Africa and Asia are subject to an assimilationist policy. The neoliberalisation of Israel has led to a more restrictive Law of Return, which favours ‘productive’ individuals, thereby excluding not only non-Jews but also Jews who are perceived as less desirable.
Ein zeitgemäßes Leitbild für eine nachhaltige Agrarpolitik
Authors: Feindt Peter H. , Krämer Christine , Früh-Müller Andrea , Heißenhuber Alois , Pahl-Wostl Claudia , Purnhagen Kai P. , Thomas Fabian , van Bers Caroline , Wolters Volkmar
Published: October 2019

Dieses Kapitel präsentiert ein Leitbild für eine multifunktionale, natur- und umweltverträgliche Landwirtschaft sowie 15 Leitlinien für eine zukunftsfähige Agrarpolitik. Leitbild und Leitlinien versuchen, eine Brücke zwischen der derzeit vorherrschenden Produktions- und Einkommensorientierung der Agrarpolitik und den Anliegen des Natur- und Umweltschutzes zu schlagen. Das Leitbild wird mit konkreten quantitativen und qualitativen Zielen unterlegt, um Fortschritte messen zu können. Weiterhin diskutieren wir zentrale Dilemmata und Zielkonflikte der Agrarpolitik, um die Positionierung des Leitbilds, aber auch die Kosten seiner Verwirklichung zu verdeutlichen. Ein qualitativer Soll-Ist-Vergleich zwischen den 15 Leitlinien und der derzeitigen Agrarpolitik dient dazu, die anstehenden agrarpolitischen Aufgaben zu verdeutlichen.
Leaving the Swampland: non-geometric fluxes and the distance conjecture
Authors: Bizet Nana Cabo , Damian Cesar , Loaiza-Brito Oscar , Peña Damian Mayorga
Published: October 2019

Abstract

We study a Type IIB isotropic toroidal compactification with non-geometric fluxes. Under the assumption of a hierarchy on the moduli, an effective scalar potential is constructed showing a runaway direction on the real part of the Kähler modulus while the rest of the moduli are stabilized. For the effective model to be consistent it is required that displacements in the field space are finite. Infinite distances in field space would imply a breakdown in the hierarchy assumption on the moduli. In this context, the Swamp-land Distance Conjecture is satisfied suggesting the possibility of leaving or entering the Swampland by a parametric control of the fluxes. This is achieved upon allowing the non-geometric fluxes to take fractional values. In the process we are able to compute the cut-off scale below which the theory is valid, completely depending on the flux configuration. We also report on the appearance of a discrete spectrum of values for the string coupling at the level of the effective theory.
Homological classification of 4d $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 2 QFT. Rank-1 revisited
Authors: Caorsi Matteo , Cecotti Sergio
Published: October 2019

Abstract

Argyres and co-workers started a program to classify all 4d$$ \mathcal{N} $$N= 2 QFT by classifying Special Geometries with appropriate properties. They completed the program in rank-1. Rank-1$$ \mathcal{N} $$N= 2 QFT are equivalently classified by the Mordell-Weil groups of certain rational elliptic surfaces. The classification of 4d$$ \mathcal{N} $$N= 2 QFT is also conjectured to be equivalent to the representation theoretic (RT) classification of all 2-Calabi-Yau categories with suitable properties. Since the RT approach smells to be much simpler than the Special-Geometric one, it is worthwhile to check this expectation by reproducing the rank-1 result from the RT side. This is the main purpose of the present paper. Along the route we clarify several issues and learn new details about the rank-1 SCFT. In particular, we relate the rank-1 classification tomirror symmetryfor Fano surfaces. In the follow-up paper we apply the RT methods to higher rank 4d$$ \mathcal{N} $$N= 2 SCFT.
A theory of quark vs. gluon discrimination
Authors: Larkoski Andrew J. , Metodiev Eric M.
Published: October 2019

Abstract

Understanding jets initiated by quarks and gluons is of fundamental importance in collider physics. Efficient and robust techniques for quark versus gluon jet discrimination have consequences for new physics searches, precision αs studies, parton distribution function extractions, and many other applications. Numerous machine learning analyses have attacked the problem, demonstrating that good performance can be obtained but generally not providing an understanding for what properties of the jets are responsible for that separation power. In this paper, we provide an extensive and detailed analysis of quark versus gluon discrimination from first-principles theoretical calculations. Working in the strongly-ordered soft and collinear limits, we calculate probability distributions for fixed N -body kinematics within jets with up through three resolved emissions

$$ \left(\mathcal{O}\left({\alpha}_s^3\right)\right) $$

O

α
s
3

. This enables explicit calculation of quantities central to machine learning such as the likelihood ratio, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, and reducibility factors within a well-defined approximation scheme. Further, we relate the existence of a consistent power counting procedure for discrimination to ideas for operational flavor definitions, and we use this relationship to construct a power counting for quark versus gluon discrimination as an expansion in

$$ {e}^{C_F-{C}_A}\ll 1 $$

e

C
F

−

C
A

≪
1

, the exponential of the fundamental and adjoint Casimirs. Our calculations provide insight into the discrimination performance of particle multiplicity and show how observables sensitive to all emissions in a jet are optimal. We compare our predictions to the performance of individual observables and neural networks with parton shower event generators, validating that our predictions describe the features identified by machine learning.
Testing dark matter with Cherenkov light — prospects of H.E.S.S. and CTA for exploring minimal supersymmetry
Authors: Hryczuk Andrzej , Jodłowski Krzysztof , Moulin Emmanuel , Rinchiuso Lucia , Roszkowski Leszek , Sessolo Enrico Maria , Trojanowski Sebastian
Published: October 2019

Abstract

We provide an updated and improved study of the prospects of the H.E.S.S. and Cherenkov Telescope Array (CTA) experiments in testing neutralino dark matter in the Minimal Supersymmetric Standard Model with nine free parameters (p9MSSM). We include all relevant experimental constraints and theoretical developments, in particular a calculation of the Sommerfeld enhancement for both present-day annihilations and the relic abundance. We perform a state-of-the-art analysis of the CTA sensitivity with a log- likelihood test ratio statistics and apply it to a numerical scan of the p9MSSM parameter space focusing on a TeV scale dark matter. We find that, assuming Einasto profile of dark matter halo in the Milky Way, H.E.S.S. has already been able to nearly reach the so-called thermal WIMP value, while CTA will go below it by providing a further improvement of at least an order of magnitude. Both H.E.S.S. and CTA are sensitive to several cases for which direct detection cross section will be below the so-called neutrino floor, with H.E.S.S. being sensitive to most of the wino region, while CTA also covering a large fraction of the ∼1 TeV higgsino region. We show that CTA sensitivity will be further improved in the monochromatic photon search mode for both single-component and underabundant dark matter.
Nonrelativistic string theory in background fields
Authors: Gomis Jaume , Oh Jihwan , Yan Ziqi
Published: October 2019

Abstract

Nonrelativistic string theory is a unitary, ultraviolet finite quantum gravity theory with a nonrelativistic string spectrum. The vertex operators of the worldsheet theory determine the spacetime geometry of nonrelativistic string theory, known as the string Newton-Cartan geometry. We compute the Weyl anomaly of the nonrelativistic string worldsheet sigma model describing strings propagating in a string Newton-Cartan geometry, Kalb-Ramond and dilaton background. We derive the equations of motion that dictate the backgrounds on which nonrelativistic string theory can be consistently defined quantum mechanically. The equations of motion we find from our study of the conformal anomaly of the worldsheet theory are to nonrelativistic string theory what the (super)gravity equations of motion are to relativistic string theory.
Epigenetics and gestational diabetes: a review of epigenetic epidemiology studies and their use to explore epigenetic mediation and improve prediction
Authors: Elliott Hannah R. , Sharp Gemma C. , Relton Caroline L. , Lawlor Deborah A.
Published: October 2019

Epigenetics encapsulates a group of molecular mechanisms including DNA methylation, histone modification and microRNAs (miRNAs). Gestational diabetes (GDM) increases the risk of adverse perinatal outcomes and is associated with future offspring risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes. It has been hypothesised that epigenetic mechanisms mediate an effect of GDM on offspring adiposity and type 2 diabetes and this could provide a modifiable mechanism to reduce type 2 diabetes in the next generation. Evidence for this hypothesis is lacking. Epigenetic epidemiology could also contribute to reducing type 2 diabetes by identifying biomarkers that accurately predict risk of GDM and its associated future adverse outcomes. We reviewed published human studies that explored associations between any of maternal GDM, type 2 diabetes, gestational fasting or post-load glucose and any epigenetic marker (DNA methylation, histone modification or miRNA). Of the 81 relevant studies we identified, most focused on the potential role of epigenetic mechanisms in mediating intrauterine effects of GDM on offspring outcomes. Studies were small (median total number of participants 58; median number of GDM cases 27) and most did not attempt replication. The most common epigenetic measure analysed was DNA methylation. Most studies that aimed to explore epigenetic mediation examined associations of in utero exposure to GDM with offspring cord or infant blood/placenta DNA methylation. Exploration of any causal effect, or effect on downstream offspring outcomes, was lacking. There is a need for more robust methods to explore the role of epigenetic mechanisms as possible mediators of effects of exposure to GDM on future risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes. Research to identify epigenetic biomarkers to improve identification of women at risk of GDM and its associated adverse (maternal and offspring) outcomes is currently rare but could contribute to future tools for accurate risk stratification.
[18F]Fluorocholine PET/CT-guided stereotactic body radiotherapy in patients with recurrent oligometastatic prostate cancer
Authors: Pasqualetti Francesco , Panichi Marco , Sollini Martina , Sainato Aldo , Galli Luca , Morganti Riccardo , Chiacchio Serena , Marciano Andrea , Zanca Roberta , Mannelli Lorenzo , Coraggio Gabriele , Sbrana Andrea , Cocuzza Paola , Montrone Sabrina , Baldaccini Davide , Gonnelli Alessandra , Molinari Alessandro , Cantarella Martina , Mazzotti Valentina , Ricci Sergio , Paiar Fabiola , Erba Paola Anna
Published: October 2019

Background

In the last years, functional imaging has given a significant contribution to the clinical decision-making of biochemically relapsed prostate cancer (PCa). Hereby, we present a prospective study aiming to validate the role of [18F]Fluoro-Methyl Choline ([18F]FMCH) PET/CT in the selection of PCa patients suitable for stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT).

Methods

Patients with biochemical recurrence limited up to three lesions revealed by [18F]FMCH PET/CT were enrolled in the present study and treated with SBRT on all active lesions. Systemic therapy-free survival since the [18F]FMCH PET/CT was considered as the primary endpoint.

Results

Forty-six patients were evaluated, and a total of 67 lesions were treated. After a median follow-up of 28.9 months, systemic therapy was started in 30 patients (65.2%) and median systemic therapy-free survival was 39.1 months (95% CI 6.5–68.6); 6, 12, and 24-month ratios were 93.5%, 73.9%, and 63.1%, respectively. At univariate Cox regression analysis, Delta PSA demonstrated an impact on systemic therapy-free survival (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Based on our findings, [18F]FMCH PET/CT can identify oligometastatic prostate cancer patients suitable for SBRT, resulting in a systemic therapy-free survival of 39.1 months.
Longitudinal multi-modal muscle-based biomarker assessment in motor neuron disease
Authors: Jenkins Thomas M. , Alix James J. P. , Fingret Jacob , Esmail Taniya , Hoggard Nigel , Baster Kathleen , McDermott Christopher J. , Wilkinson Iain D. , Shaw Pamela J.
Published: October 2019

Background

Clinical phenotypic heterogeneity represents a major barrier to trials in motor neuron disease (MND) and objective surrogate outcome measures are required, especially for slowly progressive patients. We assessed responsiveness of clinical, electrophysiological and radiological muscle-based assessments to detect MND-related progression.

Materials and methods

A prospective, longitudinal cohort study of 29 MND patients and 22 healthy controls was performed. Clinical measures, electrophysiological motor unit number index/size (MUNIX/MUSIX) and relative T2- and diffusion-weighted whole-body muscle magnetic resonance (MR) were assessed three times over 12 months. Multi-variable regression models assessed between-group differences, clinico-electrophysiological associations, and longitudinal changes. Standardized response means (SRMs) assessed sensitivity to change over 12 months.

Results

MND patients exhibited 18% higher whole-body mean muscle relative T2-signal than controls (95% CI 7–29%,p < 0.01), maximal in leg muscles (left tibialis anterior 71% (95% CI 33–122%,p < 0.01). Clinical and electrophysiological associations were evident. By 12 months, 16 patients had died or could not continue. In the remainder, relative T2-signal increased over 12 months by 14–29% in right tibialis anterior, right quadriceps, bilateral hamstrings and gastrocnemius/soleus (p < 0.01), independent of onset-site, and paralleled progressive weakness and electrophysiological loss of motor units. Highest clinical, electrophysiological and radiological SRMs were found for revised ALS-functional rating scale scores (1.22), tibialis anterior MUNIX (1.59), and relative T2-weighted leg muscle MR (right hamstrings: 0.98), respectively. Diffusion MR detected minimal changes.

Conclusion

MUNIX and relative T2-weighted MR represent objective surrogate markers of progressive denervation in MND. Radiological changes were maximal in leg muscles, irrespective of clinical onset-site.
Need for recovery in relation to effort from work and health in four occupations
Authors: Wentz Kerstin , Gyllensten Kristina , Sluiter Judith K. , Hagberg Mats
Published: October 2019

Objective

To examine three levels of need for recovery (NFR) after work in relation to effort from work demands, demand compensatory strategies, effort-moderating or -reversing resources, and health including health behaviors. A further purpose was to examine occupational characteristics determining NFR.

Methods

5000 engineers, carpenters, nurses, and home care nurses were invited to participate. NFR k-means clusters were calculated from 1289 participants. The effect from three levels of NFR regarding demands, compensatory strategies, resources at work, health, and health behaviors was examined using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and post hoc analysis. Prevalence ratios (PRs) of suboptimal health for three levels of NFR were calculated using Poisson regression. Linear stepwise multiple regression predictors explaining NFR were examined also occupation wise.

Results

NFR centroids at 5.8/33, 13.1/33, and 21.0/33 points were identified. ANOVA showed corresponding effects from NFR levels on work demands and compensatory strategies. The inversed proportion concerned levels of resources at work. Only the low NFR cluster negated regular health effects. The other two cluster groups also repeatedly worked while ill and presented PRs concerning health effects from 1.9 to 3.9 when compared to the low NFR group. Making good quality work, recovery opportunities, and thinking of work when off work were the most important predictors of NFR among 1289 participants with also occupation-wise interpretable profiles.

Conclusions

Three levels of NFR meant corresponding levels of work demands, work-demand compensatory strategies, and unfavorable health behaviors. An inversed proportion of resources related to the same levels of NFR. Low NFR meant no regular health effects which could guide limit values regarding salutary NFR. Important predictors of NFR were resources making a good quality work, recovery opportunities, and reversely effort from rumination when off work. Occupation-wise predictors could guide interventions.
Precision oncotherapy based on liquid biopsies in multidisciplinary treatment of unresectable recurrent rectal cancer: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Guadagni Stefano , Fiorentini Giammaria , De Simone Michele , Masedu Francesco , Zoras Odisseas , Mackay Andrew Reay , Sarti Donatella , Papasotiriou Ioannis , Apostolou Panagiotis , Catarci Marco , Clementi Marco , Ricevuto Enrico , Bruera Gemma
Published: October 2019

Background

Third line innovative systemic treatments and loco-regional chemotherapy by hypoxic pelvic perfusion (HPP) have both been proposed for the treatment of unresectable not responsive recurrent rectal cancer (URRC). In the present study, we have compared the safety and efficacy of HPP/target therapy, using drug regimens selected by liquid biopsy precision oncotherapy, to third-line systemic therapy based on tissue specimens precision oncotherapy.

Methods

HPP/target therapy regimens were selected based on precision oncotherapy, including assays for chemosensitivity and viability, and qRT-PCR for tumor-related gene expression. In the control group, systemic third-line and further lines of therapy were defined according to clinical and biological parameters.

Results

From 2007 to 2019, 62 URRC patients were enrolled, comprised of 43 patients in the HPP/target-therapy group and 19 patients in the systemic therapy control group. No HPP related complications were reported and the most common adverse events were skin and bone marrow toxicity. In the HPP/target-therapy group, the ORR was 41.8% whereas in the systemic therapy control group was 15.8%. DCR of the HPP/target-therapy group was significantly improved over the systemic therapy group (P = 0.001), associated with a PFS of 8 vs 4 months (P = 0.009), and OS of 20 vs 8 months (P = 0.046).

Conclusions

The present data indicate that in URCC patients, the integration of HPP/target-therapy and precision oncotherapy based upon liquid biopsy is as effective and efficacious as third-line treatment in local disease control and, therefore, deserves to be further assessed and compared to conventional systemic treatments in future prospective randomized trials.
Correlates of different facets and components of beta diversity in stream organisms
Authors: Perez Rocha Mariana , Bini Luis M. , Grönroos Mira , Hjort Jan , Lindholm Marja , Karjalainen Satu-Maaria , Tolonen Katri E. , Heino Jani
Published: October 2019

Recently, community ecology has emphasized the multi-facetted aspects of biological diversity by linking species traits and the environment. Here, we explored environmental correlates of taxonomically-based and traits-based compositional distances using a comprehensive data set of diatom and macroinvertebrate communities. We also explored the responses of different beta diversity components (i.e., overall beta diversity, turnover, and nestedness) of beta diversity facets (i.e., taxonomically and traits-based beta diversity) to environmental distances. Partial Mantel tests were used to test the relationships between beta diversity and environmental distance (while controlling for spatial distances). Taxonomically-based beta diversity varied much more than traits-based beta diversity, indicating strong functional convergence. We found that taxonomically-based beta diversity was largely driven by the turnover component. However, the nestedness component contributed more to overall traits-based beta diversity than the turnover component. Taxonomically-based beta diversity was significantly correlated with environmental distances for both diatoms and macroinvertebrates. Thus, we found support for the role of environmental filtering as a driver of community dissimilarities of rather different biological groups. However, the strength of these relationships between beta diversity and environmental distances varied depending on the biological group, facet, component, and the way which the environmental variables were selected to calculate the explanatory (distance) matrix. Our results indicated that both taxonomically and traits-based approaches are still needed to better understand patterns and mechanisms affecting the organization of biological communities in streams. This is because different facets of biological communities may be driven by different mechanisms.
Population-based analysis on predictors for lymph node metastasis in T1 colon cancer
Authors: Xu Xin , Zhang Chihao , Ni Xiaochun , Wu Jugang , Pan Chunpeng , Wang Shoulian , Yu Jiwei
Published: October 2019

Background

In this study, we aimed to identify independent predictive factors for lymph node metastasis (LNM) in T1 colon cancer.

Methods

Data of 8056 eligible patients were retrospectively collected from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database during 2004–2012. We performed logistic regression analysis to identify predictive factors for LNM. Both unadjusted and adjusted Cox regression analyses were used to determine the association between LNM and patient survival. Finally, we used competing risks analysis and the cumulative incidence function (CIF) to further confirm the prognostic role of LNM in cancer-specific survival (CSS).

Results

The overall risk of LNM in patients with T1 colon cancer was 12.0% (N = 967). Adjusted logistic regression models revealed that mucinous carcinoma [odds ratio (OR) = 2.26, P < 0.001], moderately differentiated (OR 1.74, P < 0.001), poorly differentiated (OR 5.16, P < 0.001), and undifferentiated carcinoma (OR 3.01, P = 0.003); older age (OR 0.66, P < 0.001 for age 65–79 years, OR 0.44, P < 0.001 for age over 80 years); and carcinoma located in the ascending colon (OR 0.77, P = 0.018) and sigmoid colon (OR 1.24, P = 0.014) were independent predictive factors for LNM. Adjusted Cox regression analysis showed that positive lymph node involvement was significantly associated with CSS [hazard ratio (HR) = 3.02, P < 0.001], which was further robustly confirmed using a competing risks model and the CIF.

Conclusions

This population-based study showed that mucinous carcinoma, tumor grade, age, and primary tumor location were independent predictive factors for LNM in T1 colon cancer. The risk of LNM should be carefully evaluated in patients with T1 colon cancer, before clinical management.
A particle-based model for endothelial cell migration under flow conditions
Authors: Zun P. S. , Narracott A. J. , Evans P. C. , van Rooij B. J. M. , Hoekstra A. G.
Published: October 2019

Endothelial cells (ECs) play a major role in the healing process following angioplasty to inhibit excessive neointima. This makes the process of EC healing after injury, in particular EC migration in a stented vessel, important for recovery of normal vessel function. In that context, we present a novel particle-based model of EC migration and validate it against in vitro experimental data. We have developed a particle-based model of EC migration under flow conditions in an in vitro vessel with obstacles. Cell movement in the model is a combination of random walks and directed movement along the local flow velocity vector. For model calibration, a set of experimental data for cell migration in a similarly shaped channel has been used. We have calibrated the model for a baseline case of a channel with no obstacles and then applied it to the case of a channel with ridges on the bottom surface, representative of stent strut geometry. We were able to closely reproduce the cell migration speed and angular distribution of their movement relative to the flow direction reported in vitro. The model also reproduces qualitative aspects of EC migration, such as entrapment of cells downstream from the flow-disturbing ridge. The model has the potential, after more extensive in vitro validation, to study the effect of variation in strut spacing and shape, through modification of the local flow, on EC migration. The results of this study support the hypothesis that EC migration is strongly affected by the direction and magnitude of local wall shear stress.
Use of factorial experimental design to study the effects of iron and sulfur on growth of Scenedesmus acuminatus with different nitrogen sources
Authors: Tao Ran , Bair Robert , Lakaniemi Aino-Maija , van Hullebusch Eric D. , Rintala Jukka A.
Published: October 2019

The aim of this study was to determine the combined effects of iron and sulfur on microalgal biomass concentration and removal efficiency of nitrogenous compounds using factorial design. Scenedesmus acuminatus (currently accepted name Tetradesmus lagerheimii) was separately cultivated in batch photobioreactors using modified N-8 media with two nitrogen sources, nitrate, and ammonium. To study the interaction effect between iron and sulfur and to reduce the total number of experimentally studied combinations, a factorial design was used. Three iron (0.1, 1, and 1.9 mg L−1) and three sulfur concentrations (3.7, 20, and 35.8 mg L−1) were employed to the modified N-8 media in this study. The results show that the final microalgal biomass concentration and nitrogen removal efficiency were more sensitive to the changes in iron and sulfur concentrations in the media with nitrate than with ammonium possibly because of the different assimilation mechanisms used by microalgae for these two nitrogen sources. The created models demonstrated that iron had a statistically significant effect on the microalgal biomass concentration and nitrate removal efficiency while sulfur did not. In addition, the interaction effect between iron and sulfur was not significant on microalgal biomass concentration and nitrogen removal. In synthetic medium with nitrate as nitrogen source, the highest microalgal biomass concentration was obtained with 1.0 mg L−1 iron and 35.8 mg L−1 sulfur.
A bundle theory of words
Authors: Miller J. T. M.
Published: October 2019

It has been a common assumption that words are substances that instantiate or have properties. In this paper, I question the assumption that our ontology of words requires posting substances by outlining a bundle theory of words, wherein words are bundles of various sorts of properties (such as semantic, phonetic, orthographic, and grammatical properties). I argue that this view can better account for certain phenomena than substance theories, is ontologically more parsimonious, and coheres with claims in linguistics.
Circumstances of provoked recurrent venous thromboembolism: the Austrian study on recurrent venous thromboembolism
Authors: Puhr Hannah C. , Eischer Lisbeth , Šinkovec Hana , Traby Ludwig , Kyrle Paul A. , Eichinger Sabine
Published: October 2019

Patients with unprovoked deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) of the leg or pulmonary embolism (PE) have a high recurrence risk. How often these recurrences are provoked by a temporary risk condition is unknown. In a cohort of patients with unprovoked venous thromboembolism (VTE), we evaluated the clinical circumstances of recurrence. We studied patients with DVT of the leg and/or PE. End point was recurrence of objectively verified symptomatic VTE. Provoked recurrence was defined according to guidance criteria. 1188 patients were followed for a median of 8.9 years after withdrawal of oral anticoagulants. 312 patients had recurrent VTE, which was provoked in 42 (13%). Recurrence was related to a major risk factor in 19, to a minor risk factor in 22, and to a persistent risk factor in one patient(s). 14 recurrences occurred after major surgery and 5 during hospitalization. Ten recurrences occurred after minor surgery, eight after trauma and three during female hormone intake. Four recurrences occurred during heparin prophylaxis. The incidence of provoked VTE recurrence appears to be low. VTE can recur when prevention is stopped or even during thromboprophylaxis. Surgery and trauma are frequent risk factors.
Abiotic resource depletion potentials (ADPs) for elements revisited—updating ultimate reserve estimates and introducing time series for production data
Authors: van Oers Lauran , Guinée Jeroen B. , Heijungs Reinout
Published: October 2019

Purpose

In 1995, the original method for assessing the impact category abiotic resource depletion using abiotic depletion potentials (ADPs) was published. The ADP of a resource was defined as the ratio of the annual production and the square of the ultimate (crustal content based) reserve for the resource divided by the same ratio for a reference resource (antimony (Sb)). In 2002, ADPs were updated based on the most recent USGS annual production data. In addition, the impact category was sub-divided into two categories, using two sets of ADPs: the ADP for fossil fuels and the ADP for elements; in this article, we focus on the ADP for elements. Since then, ADP values have not been updated anymore despite the availability of updates of annual production data and also updates of crustal content data that constitute the basis of the ultimate reserves. Moreover, it was known that the coverage of elements by ADPs was incomplete. These three aspects together can affect relative ranking of abiotic resources based on the ADP. Furthermore, dealing with annually changing production data might have to be revisited by proposing new calculation procedures. Finally, category totals to calculate normalized indicator results have to be updated as well, because incomplete coverage of elements can lead to biased results.

Methods

We used updated reserve estimates and time series of production data from authoritative sources to calculate ADPs for different years. We also explored the use of several variations: moving averages and cumulative production data. We analyzed the patterns in ADP over time and the contribution by different elements in the category total. Furthermore, two case studies are carried out applying two different normalization reference areas (the EU 27 as normalization reference area and the world) for 2010.

Results and discussion

We present the results of the data updates and improved coverage. On top of this, new calculation procedures are proposed for ADPs, dealing with the annually changing production data. The case studies show that the improvements of data and calculation procedures will change the normalized indicator results of many case studies considerably, making ADP less sensitive for fluctuating production data in the future.

Conclusions

The update of ultimate reserve and production data and the revision of calculation procedures of ADPs and category totals have resulted in an improved, up-to-date, and more complete set of ADPs and a category total that better reflects the total resource depletion magnitude than before. An ADP based on the cumulative production overall years is most in line with the intent of the original ADP method. We further recommend to only use category totals based on production data for the same year as is used for the other (emission-based) impact categories.
Effect of Prestrain on the Fatigue Life of Superelastic Nitinol
Authors: Senthilnathan Karthikeyan , Shamimi Ali , Bonsignore Craig , Paranjape Harshad , Duerig Tom
Published: October 2019

Three types of fatigue testing are performed to elucidate the effects of prestraining superelastic Nitinol on its subsequent fatigue lifetime: rotary bending and tension–tension testing of wire, and beam bending using diamond-shaped specimens fabricated from tubing. Results show that local plastic deformation during prestraining induces residual stresses that have a pronounced effect on fatigue performance, enhancing performance when the fatigue duty cycle is of the same sense as the prestraining (tensile prestraining followed by a tensile duty cycle, for example), and decreasing fatigue lifetime when the sense of the duty cycle is opposite to that of prestraining. This provides an avenue to increasing fatigue lifetime, but more importantly it highlights the need to fully understand the nature of the duty cycle: for example, prestraining a stent by crimping it into a delivery catheter induces favorable residual stresses with respect to subsequent pulsatile fatigue, but might accelerate fracture in other modes, such as axial or crush fatigue. Caution is also advised when trying to apply data from “constant life diagrams” derived from the literature (Ref 1, 2 for example) that may not properly reflect the strain history of the device being analyzed.
Effects of Adiponectin on Diastolic Function in Mice Underwent Transverse Aorta Constriction
Authors: Han Xueting , Wang Yanyan , Fu Mingqiang , Song Yu , Wang Jingfeng , Cui Xiaotong , Fan Yuyuan , Cao Juan , Luo Jie , Sun Aijun , Zou Yunzeng , Hu Kai , Zhou Jingmin , Ge Junbo
Published: October 2019

Diastolic dysfunction is common in various cardiovascular diseases, which could be affected by adiponectin (APN). Nevertheless, the effects of APN on diastolic dysfunction in pressure overload model induced by transverse aorta constriction (TAC) remain to be further elucidated. Here, we demonstrated that treatment of APN attenuated diastolic dysfunction and cardiac hypertrophy in TAC mice. Notably, APN also improved active relaxation of adult cardiomyocytes, increased N2BA/N2B ratios of titin isoform, and reduced collagen type I to type III ratio and lysyl oxidase (Lox) expressions in the myocardial tissue. Moreover, APN supplementation suppressed TAC-induced oxidative stress. In vitro, inhibition of AMPK by compound C (Cpc) abrogated the effect of APN on modulation of titin isoform shift and the anti-hypertrophic effect of APN on cardiomyocytes induced by AngII. In summary, our findings indicate that APN could attenuate diastolic dysfunction in TAC mice, which are at least partially mediated by AMPK pathway.
Appraisal of Geomorphic Diversity with Special Reference to Basin-Area Extremity in Central Lesser Himalaya
Authors: Pande Anita
Published: October 2019

The standard for the selection of two fourth order watersheds for intensive geomorphic study was extremity in basin-area to assess diversity in between two watersheds in regard to their geomorphic environment. The diversity in geological traits reveals that the Phalal watershed was characterized by contact zone of two lithological formations (Augun gneiss 95% and Rautgara quartzites 5%) separated by north Almora thrust (NAT) while the entire Siya watershed was developed only in one formation, i.e. Rautgara (quartzites) Formation. The diversity in geo-morphometric personality and geomorphic evolution speaks of a differential development of both watersheds in context of stage of erosion. The zone of critical-height above which the erosion is acute is 1700 to 1800 m in Phalal watershed, whereas 1500 to 1600 m in Siya watershed; the hypsometric integral determines Phalal watershed (49.96 %) under middle-mature stage while Siya watershed (57.07 %) achieved early-mature stage. Diversity in erosion status was observed along the varying altitudes of the watersheds under different land use/cover. Diversity in the spatial distribution of altitude, erosion intensity, average slope versus land use/cover status under both watersheds determines the impact of basin-area extremity. The hazardous geomorphic processes also indicate the impact of basin-area extremity as eleven types of geomorphic hazards were experienced by the Phalal watershed while only four types of hazards were experienced by Siya watershed. Phalal watershed was 18.42 % hazardous area while 21.04 % hazardous area was possessed by Siya watershed. The hazard of ‘surficial erosion’ covers maximum area, i.e. 13.78 % in Phalal watershed while 20.52 % area is possessed by Siya watershed. Likewise maximum study units attained degree 4 instability for Phalal watershed (80%) while degree 2 instability for Siya (50%) watershed. Thus, basin–area has direct posture on geological traits, geomorphic evolution, geomorphometric personality and hazardous geomorphic processes while land use/cover status has no bearing on basin-area extremity under the studied watersheds.
Hydrochemistry and Arsenic Contamination of Shallow Aquifers in Bidyananda and Nazimkhan Unions, Rajarhat Upazilla, Kurigram, Bangladesh
Authors: Moni Shahina Akter , Satter Golam Sabbir , Reza A.H. M. Selim , Ahsan Md. Aminul
Published: October 2019

In this study, the spatial distribution and hydrochemistry of arsenic (As) in shallow alluvial aquifers of Bidyananda and Nazimkhan Union of Rajarhat opazilla, Kurigram district of Bangladesh have been evaluated. Nineteen groundwater samples (depth: 10 to 50 m) were collected from the studied area for physical and chemical analysis. Based on analytical data of chemical analysis, a Piper trilinear diagram have been prepared which revealed that the groundwater of the studied area is Ca-HCO3 type, where Ca is the dominant metal. Physical data and permeability index values indicate good quality of the groundwater for drinking and irrigation. The concentrations of Fe, Mn and As in almost all samples exceed the WHO and Bangladesh national standard indicating significant pollutions. Groundwater As concentrations in the aquifer (10–50 m of depth) ranged from <0.005 to 0.323 mgL-1 and geochemical conditions changed from oxidized to successively more reduced, higher As concentrations with depth. Correlation studies revealed a good correlation between As and Mn (R2=0.20) in groundwater implying that natural reductive dissolution of MnO(OH) and FeO(OH) may be responsible for As release into the groundwater. However, a poor correlation between As and Fe (R2 = 0.0084) in groundwater is probably due to the precipitation of dissolved Fe and Mn as siderite (FeCO3) and rhodochrosite (MnCO3), respectively, under reducing conditions. The poor correlations among dissolved As, Fe and SO42- concentrations (As vs. SO42- R2 = 0.0674; Fe vs. SO42-, R2=0.1542) in groundwater suggest that pyrite/sulfide oxidation is not the dominant process for As release. A high concentration of As, Fe and Mn indicate that the natural reductive dissolution of iron oxyhydroxides is probably the dominant process for As mobilization in the groundwater of the studied area.
Past Two Decadal Groundwater Level Study in Tikamgarh District of Bundelkhand
Authors: Patle Deepak , Awasthi M.K.
Published: October 2019

Groundwater level fluctuations and trends can be used to estimate changes in aquifer storage resulting from the effects of groundwater withdrawal and recharge. These data can be used to address water management needs and to evaluate the effects of management and conservation programs. The study was divided in two periods; 1997 to 2006 – the Phase 1 and 2007 to 2016 – the Phase 2. Though the significant decline in average water levels, both in pre-monsoon and post-monsoon, were observed from Phase 1 to Phase 2 but the rate of decline in water level was not only checked from 0.102 m/yr (Phase 1) to rise at 0.056 m/yr (Phase 2) in pre monsoon season. In post monsoon season this became more prominent as decline rate of 0.308 m/yr in Phase 1 changes to rise in water level at 0.101 m/yr during Phase 2. This trend may be attributed to the construction of water conservation structures.
Geospatial Technology Application for Groundwater Prospects Mapping of Sub-Upper Krishna Basin, Maharashtra
Authors: Ashtekar Avinash S. , Mohammed-Aslam M. A.
Published: October 2019

The objective of this study is to demarcate the groundwater potential areas in sub-upper Krishna basin (SUKB). Geospatial technology applications viz. remote sensing and geographic information system (GIS) were utilized to generate the groundwater prospects map with the aid of satellite data, secondary data, web mapping services (wms) i.e. Bhuvan geoportal, and Google Earth along with requirement based field visit and ground truth, particularly while preparing a land use/land cover (LULC) map. Using these data sources input parameters which influence the occurrence of groundwater were prepared utilizing ArcGIS 10.3 and ERDAS IMAGINE image processing software. The input parameters generated were geomorphology, geology, LULC, slope, lineament density, drainage density, and rainfall. Each parameter was treated as a GIS raster theme with a number of features. Each feature of the theme was ranked and weights were assigned to the themes according to their role in influencing the occurrence of groundwater. The ranks and weights were assigned on the basis of opinions of experts in their respective fields and by referring the previous research work on groundwater prospect mapping. All the themes were integrated and Weighted Overlay Model was built in ArcGIS to generate the groundwater prospects map of SUKB. It is found that very good to moderate groundwater potential zones are clustered near the water bodies, cropland, and in floodplain regions of the basin while poor groundwater potential zones are located in the regions of structural origin geological features which seldom support good infiltration of water. The study revealed an exemplary result which is in good agreement with ground reality as validation using field observation data justified the authenticity of the generated groundwater potential (GWP) zones. Hence, geospatial technology application is worthy for mapping the groundwater potential zones which would be further utilized to pinpoint the locations for geophysical investigations for groundwater exploration in the basin.