bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Profile of Creative Thinking In Science Learning In Junior High School For The Different Gender
Authors: Qomariah Nurul , Suratno Suratno , Yushardi Yushardi
Published: July 2017

Creative thinking including higher order thinking. Creative thinking is very important in the learning of science. Often there is a difference in creative thinking in both male and female. The purpose of this research is to determine the profile of creative thinking skills in science learning in junior high school to the different gender. This research is descriptive methods. Creative thinking skill is measured by creative thinking rubric. The Data were analysed using descriptive quantitative using Microsoft Excel. The result of research has a variate creative thinking skills in science learning process in male and female.
Describing Music Materials: A Manual for Resource Description of Printed and Recorded Music and Music Videos, 4th ed. – by Richard P. Smiraglia with Jihee Beak (Book Review)
Authors: Boyd Alastair
Published: July 2017

[no abstract]
Just Between You and Me: A Memoir – by Myles Goodwyn (Book Review)
Authors: Montgomery David
Published: July 2017

[no abstract]
Staging an International Rock Festival in Alberta: A Documentary Reconstruction of Edmonton’s Rock Cirkus
Authors: Silversides Brock
Published: July 2017

This paper, delivered in a shortened form at the CAML Conference in Calgary in June 2016, details the lead up to and production of the Edmonton Rock Cirkus in August 1979. It was the largest outdoor rock festival held in the Alberta capital up to that time, and was successfully staged in Commonwealth Stadium with a combination of top name international and Canadian acts, such as Peter Frampton, Heart, Streetheart, and Trooper. Using a combination of archival documents (primarily from the Martin Melhuish Fonds, held by Media Commons at the University of Toronto), contemporary press accounts, and reminiscences by organizers and performers, the groundbreaking festival's background, organization, logistics, economics, and physical production are reconstructed and discussed.
Development of a Clinician-Rated Drop Vertical Jump Scale for Patients Undergoing Rehabilitation After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Delphi Approach
Authors: Gagnon Sheila S. , Birmingham Trevor B. , Chesworth Bert M. , Bryant Dianne , Werstine Melanie , Giffin J. Robert
Published: July 2017

Study Design

Delphi panel study.

Background

Biomechanical parameters measured during a drop vertical jump task are risk factors for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury and are targeted during rehabilitation after ACL reconstruction. A clinically feasible tool that quantifies observed performance on the drop vertical jump would help inform treatment efforts. The content and scoring of such a tool should be deliberated on by a group of experts throughout its development.

Objectives

To establish consensus on the content and scoring of a clinician-rated drop vertical jump scale (DVJS) for use during rehabilitation after ACL reconstruction.

Methods

Using a modified Delphi process, a panel of experts (researchers and clinicians) on the risk factors, prevention, treatment, and biomechanics of ACL injury anonymously critiqued versions of a DVJS. The DVJS was developed iteratively, based on the feedback from the panel, using Likert scale responses to questions and providing written comments. Three to 5 rounds were planned a priori, with a requirement of 75% agreement on included items after the final round.

Results

Twenty of the 31 invited experts (65%) participated. Approximately 93% agreement was achieved after the fourth round. Final items on the scale included the rating of knee valgus collapse (no collapse to extreme collapse) and the presence of other undesirable movements, including lateral trunk lean, insufficient knee flexion, and limb-to-limb asymmetry.

Conclusion

The Delphi process resulted in a beta version of a DVJS. Expert consensus was achieved on its content and scoring to support further clinical testing of the scale. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2017;47(8):557–564. Epub 6 Jul 2017. doi:10.2519/jospt.2017.7183
The SPADI and QuickDASH Are Similarly Responsive in Patients Undergoing Physical Therapy for Shoulder Pain
Authors: Chester Rachel , Jerosch-Herold Christina , Lewis Jeremy , Shepstone Lee
Published: July 2017

Study Design

Prospective multicenter longitudinal cohort study.

Background

A key component of assessing clinical effectiveness is to compare instruments measuring similar outcomes and to select one that is sufficiently responsive. Despite their widespread use in reporting outcomes, the responsiveness of the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) and the shortened version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire (QuickDASH) has not been compared and reported within the same population.

Objective

To compare the responsiveness of the SPADI and QuickDASH in a single large cohort of patients.

Methods

Seven hundred sixty-seven patients referred to physical therapy with shoulder pain completed the SPADI and QuickDASH at baseline, 6 weeks, and 6 months. Patients who improved (improvers) and those who did not improve (nonimprovers) were defined using a 7-point global rating of change scale. Internal and external responsiveness was evaluated.

Results

For improvers, the effect size and standardized response mean were large (greater than 1.00) at 6 weeks for both the SPADI and QuickDASH and further increased for both measures at 6 months. For participants who worsened, negative effect sizes and standardized response means were larger at 6 weeks than at 6 months. The area under the curve was similar for both the SPADI (0.81) and QuickDASH (0.78), increasing to 0.85 for both at 6 months.

Conclusion

Both instruments are similarly able to discriminate between clinical improvers and nonimprovers at either follow-up point. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2017;47(8):538–547. Epub 6 Jul 2017. doi:10.2519/jospt.2017.7195
Morphological and Crystallographic Characterization of Primary Zinc-Rich Crystals in a Ternary Sn-Zn-Bi Alloy under a High Magnetic Field
Authors: Li Lei , Ban Chunyan , Zhang Ruixue , Zhang Haitao , Cai Minghui , Zuo Yubo , Zhu Qingfeng , Wang Xiangjie , Cui Jianzhong
Published: July 2017

Due to the unique capacity for structural control, high magnetic fields (HMFs) have been widely applied to the solidification process of alloys. In zinc-based alloys, the primary zinc-rich crystals can be dendritic or needle-like in two dimensions. For the dendritic crystals, their growth pattern and orientation behaviors under HMFs have been investigated. However, the three-dimensional crystallographic growth pattern and the orientation behaviors of the needle-like primary zinc-rich crystals under a high magnetic field have not been studied. In this work, a ternary Sn-Zn-Bi alloy was solidified under different HMFs. The above-mentioned two aspects of the needle-like primary zinc-rich crystals were characterized using the Electron Backscattered Diffraction (EBSD) technique. The results show that the primary zinc-rich crystals are characterized by the plate-shaped faceted growth in three dimensions. They grow in the following manner: spreading rapidly in the {0001} basal plane with a gradual decrease in thickness at the edges. The application of HMFs has no effect on the growth form of the primary zinc-rich crystals, but induces their vertical alignment. Crystallographic analysis indicates that the vertically aligned primary zinc-rich crystals orient preferentially with the c-axis perpendicular to the direction of the magnetic field.
The Reduced NS-α Model for Incompressible Flow: A Review of Recent Progress
Authors: Bowers Abigail L. , Rebholz Leo G.
Published: July 2017

This paper gives a review of recent results for the reduced Navier–Stokes-α (rNS-α) model of incompressible flow. The model was recently developed as a numerical approximation to the well known Navier–Stokes-α model, for the purpose of more efficiently computations in the C0 finite element setting. Its performance in initial numerical tests was remarkable, which led to analytical studies and further numerical tests, all of which provided excellent results. This paper reviews the main results established thus far for rNS-α, and presents some open problems for future work.
Role of Hormones in the Regulation of RACK1 Expression as a Signaling Checkpoint in Immunosenescence
Authors: Racchi Marco , Buoso Erica , Ronfani Melania , Serafini Melania , Galasso Marilisa , Lanni Cristina , Corsini Emanuela
Published: July 2017

Immunosenescence defines the decline in immune function that occurs with aging. This has been associated, at least in part, with defective cellular signaling via protein kinase C (PKC) signal transduction pathways. Our data suggest reduced PKC activation and consequently reduced response to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation and cytokine release. The lack of PKC activation seems to be dependent on the reduced expression of the receptor for activated C kinase 1 (RACK1), a scaffolding protein involved in multiple signal transduction cascades. The defective expression of RACK1 may be dependent on age-related alteration of the balance between the adrenal hormones cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). DHEA levels reduce with aging, while cortisol levels remain substantially unchanged, resulting in an overall increase in the cortisol:DHEA ratio. These hormonal changes are significant in the context of RACK1 expression and signaling function because DHEA administration in vivo and in vitro can restore the levels of RACK1 and the function of the PKC signaling cascade in aged animals and in human cells. In contrast, there is evidence that cortisol can act as a negative transcriptional regulator of RACK1 expression. The rack1 gene promoter contains a glucocorticoid responsive element that is also involved in androgen signaling. Furthermore DHEA may have an indirect influence on the post-transcriptional regulation of the functions of the glucocorticoid receptor. In this review, we will examine the role of the hormonal regulation of rack1 gene transcriptional regulation and the consequences on signaling and function in immune cells and immunosenescence.
Impact of Premature Senescence on Radiosensitivity Measured by High Throughput Cell-Based Assays
Authors: Mirzayans Razmik , Andrais Bonnie , Murray David
Published: July 2017

In most p53 wild-type human cell types, radiosensitivity evaluated by the colony formation assay predominantly reflects stress-induced premature senescence (SIPS) and not cell death (Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18, 928). SIPS is a growth-arrested state in which the cells acquire flattened and enlarged morphology, remain viable, secrete growth-promoting factors, and can give rise to tumor-repopulating progeny. The impact of SIPS on radiosensitivity measured by short-term assays remains largely unknown. We report that in four p53 wild-type human solid tumor-derived cell lines (HCT116, SKNSH, MCF7 and A172): (i) the conventional short-term growth inhibition assay (3 days post-irradiation) generates radiosensitivity data comparable to that measured by the laborious and time-consuming colony formation assay; (ii) radiation dose-response curves obtained by multiwell plate colorimetric/fluorimetric assays are markedly skewed towards radioresistance, presumably reflecting the emergence of highly enlarged, growth-arrested and viable cells; and (iii) radiation exposure (e.g., 8 Gy) does not trigger apoptosis or loss of viability over a period of 3 days post-irradiation. Irrespective of the cell-based assay employed, caution should be exercised to avoid misinterpreting radiosensitivity data in terms of loss of viability and, hence, cell death.
Effect of Substitutional Pb Doping on Bipolar and Lattice Thermal Conductivity in p-Type Bi0.48Sb1.52Te3
Authors: Kim Hyun-sik , Lee Kyu Hyoung , Yoo Joonyeon , Youn Jehun , Roh Jong Wook , Kim Sang-il , Kim Sung Wng
Published: July 2017

Cation substitutional doping is an effective approach to modifying the electronic and thermal transports in Bi2Te3-based thermoelectric alloys. Here we present a comprehensive analysis of the electrical and thermal conductivities of polycrystalline Pb-doped p-type bulk Bi0.48Sb1.52Te3. Pb doping significantly increased the electrical conductivity up to ~2700 S/cm at x = 0.02 in Bi0.48-xPbxSb1.52Te3 due to the increase in hole carrier concentration. Even though the total thermal conductivity increased as Pb was added, due to the increased hole carrier concentration, the thermal conductivity was reduced by 14–22% if the contribution of the increased hole carrier concentration was excluded. To further understand the origin of reduction in the thermal conductivity, we first estimated the contribution of bipolar conduction to thermal conductivity from a two-parabolic band model, which is an extension of the single parabolic band model. Thereafter, the contribution of additional point defect scattering caused by Pb substitution (Pb in the cation site) was analyzed using the Debye–Callaway model. We found that Pb doping significantly suppressed both the bipolar thermal conduction and lattice thermal conductivity simultaneously, while the bipolar contribution to the total thermal conductivity reduction increased at high temperatures. At Pb doping of x = 0.02, the bipolar thermal conductivity decreased by ~30% from 0.47 W/mK to 0.33 W/mK at 480 K, which accounts for 70% of the total reduction.
Synthesis and Fungicidal Activity of 1-(Carbamoylmethyl)-2-aryl-3,1-benzoxazines
Authors: Tang Zi-Long , Wang Lian , Tan Jing-Zhao , Wan Yi-Chao , Jiao Yin-Chun
Published: July 2017

A series of new 1-(carbamoylmethyl)-2-aryl-3,1-benzoxazines were prepared in moderate to good yields by BF3·OEt2-catalyzed reactions of aromatic aldehydes with 2-(N-substituted carbamoylmethylamino)benzyl alcohols. The structures of the target compounds were confirmed by IR, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, and elemental analyses. The fungicidal activities of the target compounds against plant fungi were preliminarily evaluated, and some of them exhibited good activity.
Efficiency of Dinucleosides as the Backbone to Pre-Organize Multi-Porphyrins and Enhance Their Stability as Sandwich Type Complexes with DABCO
Authors: Merkaš Sonja , Bouatra Souhaila , Rein Régis , Piantanida Ivo , Zinic Mladen , Solladié Nathalie
Published: July 2017

Flexible linkers such as uridine or 2′-deoxyuridine pre-organize bis-porphyrins in a face-to-face conformation, thus forming stable sandwich complexes with a bidentate base such as 1,4-diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane (DABCO). Increased stability can be even greater when a dinucleotide linker is used. Such pre-organization increases the association constant by one to two orders of magnitude when compared to the association constant of DABCO with a reference porphyrin. Comparison with rigid tweezers shows a better efficiency of nucleosidic dimers. Thus, the choice of rigid spacers is not the only way to pre-organize bis-porphyrins, and well-chosen nucleosidic linkers offer an interesting option for the synthesis of such devices.
Isopentyl-Sulfide-Impregnated Nano-MnO2 for the Selective Sorption of Pd(II) from the Leaching Liquor of Ores
Authors: Wu Shengjie , Xie Mingjin , Zhang Qin , Zhong Lijiang , Chen Muhan , Huang Zhangjie
Published: July 2017

Conventional separation methods are not suitable for recovering palladium present in low concentrations in ore leaching solutions. In this study, a novel isopentyl sulfide (S201)-impregnated α-MnO2 nanorod adsorbent (BISIN) was prepared, characterized, and applied for the selective adsorption and separation of palladium from the leaching liquor of ores. Batch studies were carried out, and the main adsorption parameters were systematically investigated, in addition to the relevant thermodynamic parameters, isotherms, and kinetic models. The thermodynamic parameters reflected the endothermic and spontaneous nature of the adsorption. Moreover, the experimental results indicated that the Langmuir isotherm model fits the palladium adsorption data well and the adsorption was well described by the pseudo-second-order kinetic model. The main adsorption mechanisms of palladium were elucidated at the molecular level by X-ray crystal structure analysis. Thiourea was found to be an excellent desorption agent, and the palladium-thiourea complex was also confirmed by X-ray crystal structure analysis. The results indicated that almost all of the Pd(II) (>99.0%) is adsorbed on BISIN, whereas less than 2% of the adsorbed Pt(IV), Fe3+, Cu2+, Ni2+, and Co2+ is observed under the optimum conditions. The proposed method can be used for the efficient adsorption and separation of palladium from the leaching liquor of ores.
Protective Effect of Quercetin against Oxidative Stress-Induced Cytotoxicity in Rat Pheochromocytoma (PC-12) Cells
Authors: Bao Dengke , Wang Jingkai , Pang Xiaobin , Liu Hongliang
Published: July 2017

Oxidative stress has been implicated in the pathogenesis of many kinds of neurodegenerative disorders, particularly Parkinson’s disease. Quercetin is a bioflavonoid found ubiquitously in fruits and vegetables, and has antioxidative activity. However, the underlying mechanism of the antioxidative effect of quercetin in neurodegenerative diseases has not been well explored. Here, we investigated the antioxidative effect and underlying molecular mechanisms of quercetin on PC-12 cells. We found that PC-12 cells pretreated with quercetin exhibited an increased cell viability and reduced lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release when exposed to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). The significantly-alleviated intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA), and lipoperoxidation of the cell membrane of PC-12 cells induced by H2O2 were observed in the quercetin pretreated group. Furthermore, quercetin pretreatment markedly reduced the apoptosis of PC-12 cells and hippocampal neurons. The inductions of antioxidant enzyme catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) in PC-12 cells exposed to H2O2 were significantly reduced by preatment with quercetin. In addition, quercetin pretreatment significantly increased Bcl-2 expression, and reduced Bax, cleaved caspase-3 and p53 expressions. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that quercetin exhibited a protective effect against oxidative stress-induced apoptosis in PC-12 cells. Our findings suggested that quercetin may be developed as a novel therapeutic agent for neurodegenerative diseases induced by oxidative stress.
Measuring the Transition Rates of Coalescence Events during Double Phase Separation in Microgravity
Authors: Oprisan Ana , Garrabos Yves , Lecoutre Carole , Beysens Daniel
Published: July 2017

Phase transition is a ubiquitous phenomenon in nature, science and technology. In general, the phase separation from a homogeneous phase depends on the depth of the temperature quench into the two-phase region. Earth’s gravity masks the details of phase separation phenomena, which is why experiments were performed under weightlessness. Under such conditions, the pure fluid sulphur hexafluoride (SF 6 ) near its critical point also benefits from the universality of phase separation behavior and critical slowing down of dynamics. Initially, the fluid was slightly below its critical temperature with the liquid matrix separated from the vapor phase. A 0.2 mK temperature quench further cooled down the fluid and produced a double phase separation with liquid droplets inside the vapor phase and vapor bubbles inside the liquid matrix, respectively. The liquid droplets and the vapor bubbles respective distributions were well fitted by a lognormal function. The evolution of discrete bins of different radii allowed the derivation of the transition rates for coalescence processes. Based on the largest transition rates, two main coalescence mechanisms were identified: (1) asymmetric coalescences between one small droplet of about 20 μ m and a wide range of larger droplets; and (2) symmetric coalescences between droplets of large and similar radii. Both mechanisms lead to a continuous decline of the fraction of small radii droplets and an increase in the fraction of the large radii droplets. Similar coalescence mechanisms were observed for vapor bubbles. However, the mean radii of liquid droplets exhibits a t 1 / 3 evolution, whereas the mean radii of the vapor bubbles exhibit a t 1 / 2 evolution.
Special Issue: Frontiers in Antimicrobial Drug Discovery and Design
Authors: Barlocco Daniela , Meneghetti Fiorella
Published: July 2017

Since the discovery of Penicillin, antibiotics have saved millions of lives every year.[...]
Steroid Alkaloids from Holarrhena africana with Strong Activity against Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense
Authors: Nnadi Charles Okeke , Nwodo Ngozi Justina , Kaiser Marcel , Brun Reto , Schmidt Thomas J.
Published: July 2017

In our continued search for natural compounds with activity against Trypanosoma brucei, causative agent of human African trypanosomiasis (HAT, “sleeping sickness”), we have investigated extracts from the leaves and bark of the West African Holarrhena africana (syn. Holarrhena floribunda; Apocynaceae). The extracts and their alkaloid-enriched fractions displayed promising in vitro activity against bloodstream forms of T. brucei rhodesiense (Tbr; East African HAT). Bioactivity-guided chromatographic fractionation of the alkaloid-rich fractions resulted in the isolation of 17 steroid alkaloids, one nitrogen-free steroid and one alkaloid-like non-steroid. Impressive activities (IC50 in µM) against Tbr were recorded for 3β-holaphyllamine (0.40 ± 0.28), 3α-holaphyllamine (0.37 ± 0.16), 3β-dihydroholaphyllamine (0.67 ± 0.03), N-methylholaphyllamine (0.08 ± 0.01), conessimine (0.17 ± 0.08), conessine (0.42 ± 0.09), isoconessimine (0.17 ± 0.11) and holarrhesine (0.12 ± 0.08) with selectivity indices ranging from 13 to 302. Based on comparison of the structures of this congeneric series of steroid alkaloids and their activities, structure-activity relationships (SARs) could be established. It was found that a basic amino group at position C-3 of the pregnane or pregn-5-ene steroid nucleus is required for a significant anti-trypanosomal activity. The mono-methylated amino group at C-3 represents an optimum for activity. ∆5,6 unsaturation slightly increased the activity while hydrolysis of C-12β ester derivatives led to a loss of activity. An additional amino group at C-20 engaged in a pyrrolidine ring closed towards C-18 significantly increased the selectivity index of the compounds. Our findings provide useful empirical data for further development of steroid alkaloids as a novel class of anti-trypanosomal compounds which represent a promising starting point towards new drugs to combat human African trypanosomiasis.
Adherence to a Gluten Free Diet Is Associated with Receiving Gluten Free Foods on Prescription and Understanding Food Labelling
Authors: Muhammad Humayun , Reeves Sue , Ishaq Sauid , Mayberry John , Jeanes Yvonne
Published: July 2017

Treatment of coeliac disease requires a strict gluten-free (GF) diet, however, a high proportion of patients do not adhere to a GF diet. The study explores the practical challenges of a GF diet and dietary adherence in Caucasian and South Asian adults with coeliac disease. Patients with biopsy- and serology-proven coeliac disease were recruited from a hospital database. Participants completed a postal survey (n = 375), including a validated questionnaire designed to measure GF dietary adherence. Half of Caucasians (53%) and South Asians (53%) were adhering to a GF diet. The quarter of patients (n = 97) not receiving GF foods on prescription had a lower GF dietary adherence score compared with those receiving GF foods on prescription (12.5 versus 16.0; p < 0.001). Not understanding food labelling and non-membership of Coeliac UK were also associated with lower GF dietary adherence scores. A higher proportion of South Asian patients, compared with Caucasians, reported difficulties understanding what they can eat (76% versus 5%; p < 0.001) and understanding of food labels (53% versus 4%; p < 0.001). We recommend retaining GF foods on prescription, membership of a coeliac society, and regular consultations with a dietitian to enable better understanding of food labels. Robust studies are urgently needed to evaluate the impact of reducing the amount of GF foods prescribed on adherence to a GF diet in all population groups.
Tourist Satisfaction Enhancement Using Mobile QR Code Payment: An Empirical Investigation
Authors: Lou Liguo , Tian Zilu , Koh Joon
Published: July 2017

Innovative technologies have greatly changed people’s lives, including their travel experiences. This study investigates the antecedents and outcomes of the quick response (QR) code payment technology used in tourism to provide empirical evidence that mobile technologies can be used to enhance tourist satisfaction. An empirical analysis using 247 field survey responses reveals that relative advantage, compatibility, and observability innovation attributes significantly affect tourists’ attitudes positively toward QR code payment services, which results in their use of the technology while traveling. However, image—the subjective norm in innovation diffusion—has no effect on such use. Furthermore, the study confirms that the use of the QR code payment technology in tourism influences an individual’s transaction satisfaction and travel satisfaction, suggesting that this technology can be used to advance the tourism industry. Theoretical and practical implications of the findings and future research directions are also discussed.
Heterogeneity of Rabies Vaccination Recommendations across Asia
Authors: Buchy Philippe , Preiss Scott , Singh Ved , Mukherjee Piyali
Published: July 2017

Asian countries bear the greatest burden of the disease, with a majority (59%) of rabies-related deaths occurring in Asia. In order to promote best practices, we summarized national human vaccination guidelines across this region, to highlight differences and similarities and to discuss the aspects that would benefit from updates. National management guidelines for rabies were retrieved from various sources to extract information on rabies pre- and post-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP, and PEP), booster vaccination, and route of administration. Rabies guidelines recommendations for wound management and PrEP across Asia are broadly aligned to the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. For PEP, the 5-dose Essen, and the 4-dose Zagreb are the regimens of choice for intramuscular (IM), and the Thai Red Cross regimen for intradermal (ID), administration. Several national guidelines have yet to endorse ID vaccine administration. Most guidelines recommend rabies immunoglobulin in category III exposures. Booster recommendations are not included in all guidelines, with limited clarity on booster requirement across the spectrum of risk of rabies exposure. In conclusion, national recommendations across Asian countries differ and while some guidelines are closely aligned to the WHO recommendations, resource-saving ID administration and use of rational abbreviated schedules have yet to be endorsed.
Reading Comprehension in Quiet and in Noise: Effects on Immediate and Delayed Recall in Relation to Tinnitus and High-Frequency Hearing Thresholds
Authors: Brännström K. Jonas , Waechter Sebastian
Published: July 2017

Background:A common complaint by people with tinnitus is that they experience that the tinnitus causes attention and concentration problems. Previous studies have examined how tinnitus influences cognitive performance on short and intensive cognitive tasks but without proper
control of hearing status.Purpose:To examine the impact tinnitus and high-frequency hearing thresholds have on reading comprehension in quiet and in background noise.Research Design:A between-group design with matched control participants.Study Sample:One group of participants
with tinnitus (n = 20) and an age and gender matched control group without tinnitus (n = 20) participated. Both groups had normal hearing thresholds (20 dB HL at frequencies 0.125 to 8 kHz).Data Collection and Analysis:Measurements were made assessing hearing thresholds and immediate
and delayed recall using a reading comprehension test in quiet and in noise. All participants completed the Swedish version of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and participants with tinnitus also completed the Tinnitus Questionnaire.Results:The groups did not differ in immediate
nor delayed recall. Accounting for the effect of age, a significant positive correlation was found between best ear high-frequency pure tone average (HF-PTA; 10000, 12500, and 14000 Hz) and the difference score between immediate and delayed recall in noise.Conclusions:Tinnitus seems
to have no effect on immediate and delayed recall in quiet or in background noise when hearing status is controlled for. The detrimental effect of background noise on the processes utilized for efficient encoding into long-term memory is larger in participants with better HF-PTA. More specifically,
when reading in noise, participants with better HF-PTA seem to recall less information than participants with poorer HF-PTA.
Evidence for Possible Clouds in Pluto’s Present-day Atmosphere
Authors: Stern S. A. , Kammer J. A. , Barth E. L. , Singer K. N. , Lauer T. R. , Hofgartner J. D. , Weaver H. A. , Ennico K. , Olkin C. B. , Young L. A. ,   The New Horizons LORRI Instrument Team,   The New Horizons Ralph Instrument Team,   The New Horizons Atmospheres Investigation Team
Published: July 2017

Several trace constituents can reach saturation vapor pressure in Pluto’s present-day atmosphere (PDA). As such, we describe a search for discrete cloud features in Pluto’s atmosphere using New Horizons data obtained on 2015 July 14–15, during the Pluto flyby closest approach. We report that the PDA is at least largely (>99% by surface area) free of discrete clouds. We also report a handful of features that may plausibly be clouds, all of which were detected obliquely and at high-phase-angle observing geometry. No cloud candidates were identified away from the terminators or in low-phase (backscattering geometry) images.
Fossil Shell in 3C 84 as TeV γ-Ray Emitter and Cosmic-Ray Accelerator
Authors: Kino M. , Ito H. , Wajima K. , Kawakatu N. , Nagai H. , Itoh R.
Published: July 2017

We explore physical properties of the shocked external medium (i.e., a shell) in 3C 84 associated with the recurrent radio lobe born around 1960. In the previous work of Ito et al., we investigated a dynamical and radiative evolution of such a shell after the central engine stops the jet launching, and we found that a fossil-shell emission overwhelms that of the rapidly fading radio lobe. We apply this model to 3C 84 and find the following. (1) The fossil shell made of shocked diffuse ambient matter with the number density of

radiates bright inverse-Compton (IC) emission with the seed photons of the radio emission from the central compact region and the IC emission is above the sensitivity threshold of the Cherenkov Telescope Array (CTA). (2) When the fossil shell is produced in a geometrically thick ionized plasma with the number density of

, the field strength in the shell may reach about 17 mG in the presence of magnetic fields amplification and the radio emission becomes comparable to the sensitivity of deep imaging VLBI observations. The possible production of ultra high-energy cosmic-rays (UHECRs) in the dense shocked plasma is also argued.
OGLE-2014-BLG-1112LB: A Microlensing Brown Dwarf Detected through the Channel of a Gravitational Binary-lens Event
Authors: Han C. , Udalski A. , Bozza V. , Szymański M. K. , Soszyński I. , Skowron J. , Mróz P. , Poleski R. , Pietrukowicz P. , Kozłowski S. , Ulaczyk K. , Wyrzykowski Ł. ,   (The OGLE Collaboration), Novati S. Calchi , D’Ago G. , Dominik M. , Hundertmark M. , Jorgensen U. G. , Scarpetta G. ,   (The MiNDSTEp Consortium)
Published: July 2017

Due to the nature of the gravitational field, microlensing, in principle, provides an important tool for detecting faint and even dark brown dwarfs. However, the number of identified brown dwarfs is limited due to the difficulty of the lens mass measurement that is needed to check the substellar nature of the lensing object. In this work, we report a microlensing brown dwarf discovered from an analysis of the gravitational binary-lens event OGLE-2014-BLG-1112. We identify the brown dwarf nature of the lens companion by measuring the lens mass from the detections of both microlens-parallax and finite-source effects. We find that the companion has a mass of

and it is orbiting a solar-type primary star with a mass of

. The estimated projected separation between the lens components is 9.63 ± 1.33 au and the distance to the lens is 4.84 ± 0.67 kpc. We discuss the usefulness of space-based microlensing observations for detecting brown dwarfs through the channel of binary-lens events.
Empirical Constraints on the Origin of Fast Radio Bursts: Volumetric Rates and Host Galaxy Demographics as a Test of Millisecond Magnetar Connection
Authors: Nicholl M. , Williams P. K. G. , Berger E. , Villar V. A. , Alexander K. D. , Eftekhari T. , Metzger B. D.
Published: July 2017

The localization of the repeating fast radio burst (FRB) 121102 to a low-metallicity dwarf galaxy at z = 0.193, and its association with a luminous quiescent radio source, suggests the possibility that FRBs originate from magnetars, formed by the unusual supernovae that occur in such galaxies. We investigate this possibility via a comparison of magnetar birth rates, the FRB volumetric rate, and host galaxy demographics. We calculate average volumetric rates of possible millisecond magnetar production channels, such as superluminous supernovae (SLSNe), long and short gamma-ray bursts (GRBs), and general magnetar production via core-collapse supernovae (CCSNe). For each channel, we also explore the expected host galaxy demographics using their known properties. We determine for the first time the number density of FRB emitters (the product of their volumetric birth rate and lifetime),

Gpc−3, assuming that FRBs are predominantly emitted from repetitive sources similar to FRB 121102 and adopting a beaming factor of 0.1. By comparing rates, we find that production via rare channels (SLSNe, GRBs) implies a typical FRB lifetime of ∼30–300 years, in good agreement with other lines of argument. The total energy emitted over this time is consistent with the available energy stored in the magnetic field. On the other hand, any relation to magnetars produced via normal CCSNe leads to a very short lifetime of ∼0.5 years, in conflict with both theory and observation. We demonstrate that due to the diverse host galaxy distributions of the different progenitor channels, many possible sources of FRB birth can be ruled out with

host galaxy identifications. Conversely, targeted searches of galaxies that have previously hosted decades-old SLSNe and GRBs may be a fruitful strategy for discovering new FRBs and related quiescent radio sources, and determining the nature of their progenitors.
Corneal Asphericity and IOL Power Calculation in Eyes With Aspherical IOLs
Authors: Savini Giacomo , Hoffer Kenneth J. , Barboni Piero , Schiano Lomoriello Domenico , Ducoli Pietro
Published: July 2017

PURPOSE:

Given that a previous study found that corneal asphericity influences the refractive outcome of intraocular lens (IOL) power calculation by means of thin-lens formulas in eyes with spherical IOLs, the authors aimed to verify whether such influence can also be observed in eyes with aspherical IOLs.

METHODS:

In this retrospective comparative case series, IOL power was calculated with the Haigis, Hoffer Q, Holladay 1, and SRK/T formulas in two groups of eyes undergoing phacoemulsification and implantation of an aspherical IOL (Acrysof SN60WF; Alcon Laboratories, Inc., Fort Worth, TX). For each formula, the refractive prediction error was calculated once the constants had been optimized. Biometric data were obtained by partial coherence interferometry in one group and immersion ultrasound biometry and corneal topography in the other. Corneal asphericity was assessed by two different corneal topographers in the optical biometry group (Magellan; Nidek, Gamagori, Japan) and ultrasound biometry group (Keratron, Optikon 2000 Spa, Rome, Italy).

RESULTS:

The mean Q-value was −0.12 ± 0.08 in the optical biometry group (n = 51) and −0.22 ± 0.14 in the ultrasound biometry group (n = 79). In both groups, linear regression disclosed a statistically significant correlation between the Q-value and the prediction error (the only exception being the SRK/T formula). More negative Q-values were correlated to a positive prediction error, indicating a myopic outcome for prolate corneas. However, the correlation coefficients were lower than those previously reported for spherical IOLs.

CONCLUSIONS:

Corneal asphericity also influences the refractive outcomes of IOL power calculation by thinlens formulas when aspherical IOLs are implanted, although this influence is exerted to a lesser degree compared to spherical IOLs.

[
J Refract Surg.
2017;33(7):476–481.]
Bean-shaped Ring Segments as a Capsule Enhancement Tool in Complex Bag-in-the-Lens Intraocular Lens Implantation
Authors: Altenburg Ate , Ní Dhubhghaill Sorcha S. , Tassignon Marie-José
Published: July 2017

PURPOSE:

To describe the outcome of a novel capsular or sulcular device to support the bag-in-the-lens (BIL) implant in cases of capsular or zonular instability. Bean-shaped ring segments or ‘beans’ (Morcher GmbH, Stuttgart, Germany) are designed to fit the groove of the BIL and may be placed in either the capsule or the ciliary sulcus in cataract cases with loose zonules or unstable capsule.

METHODS:

This was a retrospective single center observational study of all consecutive cases of bean implantation between May 2011 and April 2015.

RESULTS:

Sixty-four eyes of 57 patients were included in this study. Beans were used to support the BIL implant in all cases. Surgical technique, positioning, visual outcomes, refractive outcomes, and complications were evaluated in all cases. The beans were implanted in 23 eyes after IOL exchange, 14 eyes with crystalline lens dislocation, 12 eyes presenting with traumatic cataract, 8 eyes presenting with unstable capsules, and 7 eyes with postoperative visual complaints due to an unstable BIL implant. The mean increase in visual acuity was 0.35 decimal Snellen for the total cohort. Visual gain was highest in the crystalline lens dislocation (0.43 decimal Snellen) and traumatic cataract (0.41 decimal Snellen) groups. Best refractive outcomes were achieved in the traumatic cataract and intraocular lens exchange groups (0.73 and 0.80 diopters mean deviation from target refraction, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS:

Bean-shaped ring segments are a useful tool to augment the stability of the capsule/zonular complex, expanding the indications of patients who can be treated with the BIL implant.

[
J Refract Surg.
2017;33(7):454–459.]
A First Approach to Design Mobility Function and Noise Filter in VLC System Utilizing Low-cost Analog Circuits
Authors: Fuada Syifaul , Putra Angga Pratama , Aska Yulian , Adiono Trio
Published: July 2017

Visible Light Communication (VLC) as one of wireless technology must be able to offer a good capability as mobile communication system. The signal will be faded when the distance and angle of LED to photo-detector become higher at a certain distance. Other problem at VLC system is light interference noise which is caused by flicker effect from other light sources such as incandescent, fluorescent, DC-lamp (i.e. flashlight) and the sunlight. Each of lights have specific carried signal characteristics and it can influences the VLC system. In this paper we offer design of mobile VLC system based on analog domain. We use Automatic Gain Controller (AGC) circuit using commercially available IC and it will be placed at analog front-end receiver side. AGC can self-adjust its gain according to the input signal amplitude.  We also design analog filter to eliminate all interferences noise spectrum which is existed under 50 KHz. We design both circuits, analog filter and AGC in VLC receiver system with low-cost. The test data are obtained through the simulation and achieved good results in ideal condition.
L’etica del potere come fondamento della fiducia nelle relazioni di cura / Power ethics founds trust in care relationships
Authors: Premoli De Marchi Paola
Published: July 2017

L’articolo parte dal presupposto che la fiducia sia una componente irrinunciabile delle relazioni umane, e questo emerge in modo esemplare nelle relazioni tipiche delle professioni di cura, perché queste sono per loro natura asimmetriche e hanno un destinatario che si trova in una situazione di vulnerabilità. Lo scopo del saggio è quello di analizzare le relazioni di potere e i suoi presupposti etici, così da individuare le forme corrette e scorrette di potere. Si analizza dunque il potere dal punto di vista del suo oggetto, delle sue motivazioni e delle sue intenzioni. Per quanto riguarda l’oggetto dell’azione di potere, esso può avere come scopo quello di migliorare o far crescere, quello di conservare e proteggere, e quello di distruggere. Per quanto riguarda le motivazioni, chi ha potere può voler migliorare le cose, affermare se stesso, godere dei benefici del potere, esprimere amore o esprimere odio. Per quanto riguarda, infine, le intenzioni, il potere può essere esercitato in modo strumentale, servendosi di qualcosa o qualcuno, oppure con la volontà di asservire a sé l’altro, oppure perché si vuole servire l’altro. Considerare tutti questi aspetti permette di individuare un modo buono di esercitare il potere, ma anche le patologie nelle relazioni di potere, e dunque in che modo l’abuso di potere può minare la relazione di fiducia nelle professioni della cura. ---------- The paper assumes that trust is an essential component in human relationships, and we can see this especially in the relationships of the caring professions: they are by their nature asymmetric and their recipient is in a vulnerable situation. The purpose of the essay is to analyze the essence of power and its ethical requirements, so as to identify right and wrong forms of power relationships. I therefore examine power as to its object, motives and intentions. As regards the object of the power action, this can have the purpose of a) improvement or growth, of b) preservation and protection, and of c) distruction. As concerns motivation, those with power may want to make the world better than it is, to affirm themselves, to enjoy the benefits of power, to express love or hatred. As regards, finally, the intentions, the power can be exercised in an instrumental way, making use of something or someone, or with the aim to enslave another, or because you want to serve others. If we consider all these aspects, we can find the morally good way of exercising power, but also the diseases in the power relationships, and thus see how the abuse of power can undermine trust in the professions of care.
Il “problema” del consenso informato: dai diritti del malato alla spersonalizzazione del rapporto medicopaziente / The “problem” of the informed consent: from the rights of the patient to the depersonalization of his relationship with the doctor
Authors: Posteraro Nicola
Published: July 2017

Il lavoro analizza il tema del diritto al consenso informato. Si parte con un’analisi generale del “nuovo” concetto di salute, per poi passare a trattare più dettagliatamente del diritto de quo. Ci si sofferma in particolare sulla informazione quale requisito atto a renderlo valido e si affronta il tema del nuovo rapporto medico-paziente; infine, si svolgono delle considerazioni critiche rispetto alla cd. spersonalizzazione di tale relazione medicale. ---------- The work deals with the process of the informed consent. It analyzes the “new” right to health; then, it focalizes its attention on the right to be informed before conducting a healthcare. At the end, it considers the theme of the relationship between the doctor and the patient and investigates the problem of its depersonalization.
Compton imaging for standoff radiation detection: Report A
Authors: Sinclair L E , Saull P R B
Published: July 2017

With funding from the Department of National Defence's (DND) Centre for Security Science, over the years from 2007 to 2012 a research team composed of scientists from Natural Resources Canada (NRCan), the National Research Council (NRC), and McGill University
developed imagers to find radioactive sources and show their location overlaid on a photograph. These imagers were developed primarily for use in security/surveillance, and in consequence management. A follow-on DND-funded project called "Compton Imaging for Standoff Radiation Detection", governed
by memoranda of understanding between DND and NRCan [1] and between DND and NRC [2], has been established in order to provide information useful in determining whether the Canadian Forces should procure Compton imagers. This is Report A specified in those agreements. We provide an introduction to
Compton imaging, discuss the current technology readiness level of Compton imagers in Canada, and provide a status report of work under the project to date.
Spectrum of Esophageal Motility Disorders in Patients with Motor Dysphagia and Noncardiac Chest Pain ‑ A Single Center Experience
Authors: Bansal Rinkesh Kumar , Nasa Mukesh , Patil Gaurav Kumar , Shah Vinit , Choudhary Narendra S. , Puri Rajesh , Sud Randhir
Published: July 2017

Aims and Objective: High‑resolution esophageal manometry is the most important investigation for the evaluation of patients with dysphagia and noncardiac chest pain (NCCP). Chicago Classification (CC) utilizing an algorithmic approach in analyzing high‑resolution manometry has been accepted worldwide, and an updated version, CC v3.0, of this classification has been developed by the International high‑resolution manometry working Group in 2014. Data on the spectrum of esophageal motility disorders in Indian population are scarce as well as a newer version of CC has not been used to classify. The aim of our study is to evaluate clinical presentation and manometric profile of patients with suspected esophageal motility disorders using CC v3.0. Methodology: In this retrospective study, consecutive patients referred for esophageal manometry at our center from 2010 to 2015 were included in the study. High‑resolution esophageal manometry was performed with 22‑channel water‑perfusion system (MMS, The Netherlands). Newer version of CC (CC v3.0) was used to classify motility disorders. Results: A total of 400 patients were included, with a mean age of 44 years and 67.5% were males. Out of these, 60% (n = 240) patients presented with motor dysphagia while 40% (n = 160) had NCCP. Motility disorder was present in 50.5% (n = 202) of the patients while 49.5% (n = 198) patients had normal manometry. Disorders of esophagogastric junction outflow were the predominant type of disorder, found in 33.75% (n = 135). About 14.25% (n = 57) of the patients had minor disorders of peristalsis while 5% (n = 20) of the patients had other major disorders of peristalsis. Achalasia was the most common motility disorder present in 30% (n = 120) patients. Conclusion: Dysphagia was the most common esophageal symptom followed by NCCP in our series. Achalasia was the most common esophageal motility disorder followed by fragmented peristalsis.
A Third Order Adaptive ADER Scheme for One Dimensional Conservation Laws
Authors: Gu Yaguang , Hu Guanghui
Published: July 2017

We introduce a third order adaptive mesh method to arbitrary high order Godunov approach. Our adaptive mesh method consists of two parts, i.e., mesh-redistribution algorithm and solution algorithm. The mesh-redistribution algorithm is derived based on variational approach, while a new solution algorithm is developed to preserve high order numerical accuracy well. The feature of proposed Adaptive ADER scheme includes that 1). all simulations in this paper are stable for large CFL number, 2). third order convergence of the numerical solutions is successfully observed with adaptive mesh method, and 3). high resolution and non-oscillatory numerical solutions are obtained successfully when there are shocks in the solution. A variety of numerical examples show the feature well.