bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interface configuration effects on excitation, exciton dissociation, and charge recombination in organic photovoltaic heterojunction
Authors: Bai Rui‐Rong , Zhang Cai‐Rong , Wu You‐Zhi , Yuan Li‐Hua , Zhang Mei‐Ling , Chen Yu‐Hong , Liu Zi‐Jiang , Chen Hong‐Shan
Published: November 2019

The morphology of donor‐acceptor heterojunction interface significantly affects the electron/hole processes in organic solar cells, including charge transfer (CT), exciton dissociation (ED), and charge recombination (CR). Here, to investigate interface molecular configuration effects, the donor‐acceptor complexes with face‐on, edge‐on, and end‐on configurations were constructed as model systems for the p‐SIDT(FBTTh2)2/C60 heterojunction. The geometries, electronic structures, and excitation properties of monomers and the complexes with three configurations were studied based on density functional theory (DFT) and time‐dependent DFT calculations with optimally tuned range separation parameters and solid polarization effects. In terms of Marcus theory, the rate constants of ED and CR processes were analyzed. The results show that most of the excited states for p‐SIDT(FBTTh2)2 exhibit an intramolecular CT character, and the similarity of the excitation characters (CT and local excitation) and energies among three complexes with different configurations indicate that the electronic structure and excitation properties are insensitive to the interfacial molecular configurations. However, the rates of ED and CR processes heavily depend on it. These results underline the importance of controlling molecular configuration and then the morphology at the heterojunction interface in organic solar cells.
Understanding the Stability Trend Along Light Lanthanide Complexes with an Ehtylenediamine‐Type Ligand: A Quantum Chemical Study
Authors: Huang Pin‐Wen
Published: November 2019

In this work, the “downward‐upward‐downward” stability trend of a series light lanthanide (Ln, from La to Gd) complexes with N,N,N′,N′‐tetrakis[(6‐carboxypyridin‐2‐yl)methyl] ethylene‐diamine (TPAEN) were theoretically investigated using density functional theory (DFT). TPSSh/SC‐ECP method which can better reproducing sample Eu‐TPAEN complex’ experimental geometrical structural data was selected to investigate the bonding nature, bonding strength and thermodynamic properties of these Ln‐complexes. Based on our calculations, weak partial covalent character exists in Ce−O, Pr−O, and Nd−O bonds, does not induce more stable properties but break down the balance of 10‐coordinated Ln‐TPAEN structures, and lead to the suddenly decreasing of stability from La‐TPAEN to Ce‐TPAEN. Besides, the special “capsule‐shaped” structure, steric effect, and the balance between strength changing of Ln‐Npy (Npy is the nitrogen atom at the pyridine ring), Ln‐Nam (Nam is the nitrogen atom at the amine chain) and Ln−O interactions along the studied light Ln‐complexes might be key factors for the following “upward‐downward” stability trend from Ce to Gd. Our studies may give a reasonable explanation for the “downward‐upward‐downward” stability trend of the studied systems. We hope this work can shed light for the future lanthanide separation reagent designing.
Salt‐Templated Construction of Ultrathin Cobalt Doped Iron Thiophosphite Nanosheets toward Electrochemical Ammonia Synthesis
Authors: Huang Hao , Li Fumin , Xue Qi , Zhang Ying , Yin Shiwei , Chen Yu
Published: November 2019

Exploiting efficient electrocatalysts for electrochemical nitrogen reduction (NRR) is highly desired and deeply meaningful for realizing sustainable ammonia (NH3) production under ambient conditions. The Fe protein contains one [Fe4S4] cluster and P cluster, which play an important role for transfer electron during the nitrogen fixing of nitrogenases. Based on the understanding of nitrogenase, the rising‐star 2D iron thiophosphite (FePS3) nanomaterials may be highly active electrocatalysts toward NRR due to the ideal elemental composition. In this work, 2D FePS3 nanosheets are successfully synthesized by a facile salt‐templated method. The FePS3 nanosheets show better electrocatalytic NH3 yield and faradaic efficiency (FE) than Fe2S3, which demonstrates that the P element indeed improves the NRR activity of Fe‐S. Theoretically, Co incorporation not only effectively prompts the conductivity of FePS3, but also enhances the catalytic activities of Fe‐edge sites. Experimentally, Co‐doped FePS3 (Co‐FePS3) nanosheets exhibit a remarkable electrocatalytic performance toward NRR, such as high NH3 yield rate of 90.6 µg h−1 mgcat−1, high FE of 3.38%, and an excellent long‐term stability. Being the first theoretical and experimental report regarding FePS3‐based electrocatalyst toward NRR, this work represents an important beginning to the family of metal thiophosphite as advanced electrocatalysts toward NRR.
Interaction of AnVI with Isothiocyanate Ion in Water‐Organic Media (An = U, Np, Pu)
Authors: Fedoseev Aleksander , Charushnikova Iraida , Budantseva Nina , Andreev Grigory
Published: November 2019

Behavior of UVI, NpVI and PuVI in water‐acetonitrile solutions was studied spectrophotometrically with the successive addition of the polar organic ligands (dimethyl sulfoxide or hexamethylphosphoric triamide) and the NCS– ion. The detected spectral effects – changes in the absorption intensity, bathochromic shifts in the absorption bands, the absence of isosbestic points, a change in the color of the solution – indicate complex competitive processes occurring in the studied solutions. In the case of NpVI, its partial reduction to NpIV by NCS– ion is observed. Solid UVI complex, [UO2(HMPA)2(NCS)2], was isolated, its crystal structure was determined using X‐ray diffraction. In contrast to known AnO22+ compounds with the NCS– ion, this complex exhibits tetragonal bipyramidal environment of the U atom. [UO2(HMPA)2(NCS)2] is also characterized by UV/Vis, IR and luminescence spectroscopy.
Three-dimensional extended Lifshitz, Schrödinger and Newton-Hooke supergravity
Authors: Ozdemir Nese , Ozkan Mehmet , Zorba Utku
Published: November 2019

Abstract

We provide a systematic analysis of three-dimensional $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 2 extended Bargmann superalgebra and its Newton-Hooke, Lifshitz and Schrödinger extensions. These algebras admit invariant non-degenerate bi-linear forms which we utilized to construct corresponding Chern-Simons supergravity actions.
Positive geometry in the diagonal limit of the conformal bootstrap
Authors: Sen Kallol , Sinha Aninda , Zahed Ahmadullah
Published: November 2019

Abstract

We consider the diagonal limit of the conformal bootstrap in arbitrary dimensions and investigate the question if physical theories are given in terms of cyclic polytopes. Recently, it has been pointed out that in d = 1, the geometric understanding of the boot- strap equations for unitary theories leads to cyclic polytopes for which the faces can all be written down and, in principle, the intersection between the unitarity polytope and the crossing plane can be systematically explored. We find that in higher dimensions, the natural structure that emerges, due to the inclusion of spin, is the weighted Minkowski sum of cyclic polytopes. While it can be explicitly shown that for physical theories, the weighted Minkowski sum of cyclic polytopes is not a cyclic polytope, it also turns out that in the large conformal dimension limit it is indeed a cyclic polytope. We write down several analytic formulae in this limit and show that remarkably, in many cases, this works out to be very good approximation even for O (1) conformal dimensions. Furthermore, we initiate a comparison between usual numerics obtained using linear programming and what arises from positive geometry considerations.
Relative importance of perceived physical and social neighborhood characteristics for depression: a machine learning approach
Authors: Helbich Marco , Hagenauer Julian , Roberts Hannah
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The physical and social neighborhood environments are increasingly recognized as determinants for depression. There is little evidence on combined effects of multiple neighborhood characteristics and their importance. Our aim was (1) to examine associations between depression severity and multiple perceived neighborhood environments; and (2) to assess their relative importance.

Methods

Cross-sectional data were drawn from a population-representative sample (N = 9435) from the Netherlands. Depression severity was screened with the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) and neighborhood perceptions were surveyed. Supervised machine learning models were employed to assess depression severity-perceived neighborhood environment associations.

Results

We found indications that neighborhood social cohesion, pleasantness, and safety inversely correlate with PHQ-9 scores, while increasing perceived distance to green space and traffic were correlated positively. Perceived distance to blue space and urbanicity seemed uncorrelated. Young adults, low-income earners, low-educated, unemployed, and divorced persons were more likely to have higher PHQ-9 scores. Neighborhood characteristics appeared to be less important than personal attributes (e.g., age, marital and employment status). Results were robust across different ML models.

Conclusions

This study suggested that the perceived social environment plays, independent of socio-demographics, a role in depression severity. Contrasted with person-level and social neighborhood characteristics, the prominence of the physical neighborhood environment should not be overstated.
Physiologically based toxicokinetic models and in silico predicted partition coefficients to estimate tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin transfer from feed into growing pigs
Authors: Savvateeva Daria , Numata Jorge , Pieper Robert , Schafft Helmut , Lahrssen-Wiederholt Monika , Bulik Sascha
Published: November 2019

Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) is a ubiquitous, toxic, persistent and bioaccumulative organic pollutant. TCDD can potentially enter the food chain through contaminated food of animal origin as a consequence of feed contamination. Prediction of the TCDD transfer from feed into animal products is thus important for human health risk assessment. Here, we develop several physiologically based toxicokinetic (PBTK) models of TCDD transfer from contaminated feed into growing pigs (Sus scrofa) exposed to doses ranging from 24.52 to 3269.25 ng of TCDD. We test the consequences of explicit dose-dependent absorption (DDA) versus the indirect effects of a self-induced liver metabolism (SIM). The DDA and SIM models showed similar fit to experimental data, although currently it is not possible to unequivocally make statement on a mechanistic preference. The performance of both toxicokinetic models was successfully evaluated using the 1999 Belgian case of contaminated fats for feeding. In combination with toxicokinetic models of other dioxin congeners, they can be used to formulate maximum allowance levels of dioxins in feedstuffs for pigs. Additionally, the implementation of in silico-predicted partition coefficients was explored as a useful alternative to predict TCDD tissue distribution in low-dose scenarios without recurring to animal experiments.
Nonlinear Dirac Equations, Monotonicity Formulas and Liouville Theorems
Authors: Branding Volker
Published: November 2019

We study the qualitative behavior of nonlinear Dirac equations arising in quantum field theory on complete Riemannian manifolds. In particular, we derive monotonicity formulas and Liouville theorems for solutions of these equations. Finally, we extend our analysis to Dirac-harmonic maps with curvature term.
Multi-proxy records of Mesolithic activity in the Lubuskie Lakeland (western Poland)
Authors: Sobkowiak-Tabaka Iwona , Pawłowski Dominik , Milecka Krystyna , Kubiak-Martens Lucy , Kostecki Robert , Janczak-Kostecka Beata , Goslar Tomasz , Ratajczak-Szczerba Magdalena
Published: November 2019

The results of high-resolution records of pollen, plant macroremains and charred plant particles, diatoms, Cladocera and geochemistry from a 14C-dated core, and geomorphological studies enabled the reconstruction of landscape development at a site in western Poland which was occupied by Mesolithic hunter-gatherer groups. Special attention was paid to the evidence of human activities recorded in the sediments of the palaeolake located next to the archaeological site. The presence of pollen types from communities characteristic of openings in the forest, macroscopic/microscopic charcoal, and charred particles of herbaceous plants (mostly from between 5500 and 4600 bc, with clearly visible maxima ca 5300, 4900 and 4700 bc) evidence the changes related to these various kinds of activities. These analyses allowed us to reconstruct the fire events at and around the site as well as to consider whether they originated from natural or human induced fires. The increase in the biogenic sediments of elements such as Na, K and Mg indicate an intensive erosion of mineral soil between 5100 and 4600 bc, mirroring human activity in the vicinity of the Kopanica site. In addition, Cladocera analysis permitted a detailed recognition of palaeolake eutrophication ca 7200–4600 bc, also eutrophication induced by human impact between 5100 and 4600 bc.
A Faraday laser operating on Cs 852 nm transition
Authors: Chang Pengyuan , Chen Yilai , Shang Haosen , Guan Xiaolei , Guo Hong , Chen Jingbiao , Luo Bin
Published: November 2019

We demonstrate a Faraday laser at Cs-D2 resonance line 852 nm using a Cs Faraday optical filter as frequency-selecting element. In contrast to typical diode laser with high stability of the emission frequency by additional control systems, our Faraday laser offers stable output frequency exactly set by the peak transmission frequency of the Cs 852 nm Faraday optical filter. The system works stably over a range of laser diode (LD) current from 60 to 130 mA and the LD temperature from 14 to 35 $$^{\circ }$$∘C, as well as the 48-h wavelength fluctuation range of no more than ± 2 p.m. A most probable linewidth of 17 kHz with Lorentz fitting is obtained by beating between two identical laser systems. The wavelength of our system is stabilized within transmission frequency region of 852 nm Faraday optical filter, and the peak of the transmission is corresponding to Cs atomic Doppler broadened line at the cell temperature of 41 $$^{\circ }$$∘C and the magnetic field of 330 G, making it suitable for laser-pumped Cs gas-cell and atomic beam frequency standard, etc. Moreover, this scheme is firstly used on Cs atom, opening new doors in research of Faraday laser and its applications.
Ideal timing of indwelling catheter removal after robot-assisted radical prostatectomy with a running barbed suture technique: a prospective analysis of 425 consecutive patients
Authors: Lenart Sebastian , Berger Ingrid , Böhler Judith , Böhm Reinhard , Gutjahr Georg , Hartig Nikolaus , Koller Daniel , Lamche Michael , Madersbacher Stephan , Stolzlechner Michael , Wayand Claudia Elisa , Ponholzer Anton
Published: November 2019

Objective

To compare prospectively early outcome and complications of catheter removal after robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) on the 4th or 7th day with a standardized running barbed suture technique.

Introduction

The time point of removing the indwelling catheter after RARP mainly depends on institute’s/surgeon’s preferences. Removal should be late enough to avoid urinary leakage and complications such as acute urinary retention (AUR) but early enough to avoid unnecessary catheter indwelling.

Materials and methods

A consecutive single-institutional series of patients underwent RARP between July 2015 and August 2017 and were entered in a prospectively maintained data base. Between July 2015 and December 2016 a cystogram was performed on 7th postoperative day (group A), thereafter the cystogram was performed on 4th postoperative day (group B). Incidence of acute urinary retention (AUR), urinary tract infections (UTI) and adverse events between the two cohorts was compared.

Results

425 patients were analyzed (group A: n = 231; group B: n = 194). Both cohorts were comparable regarding demographic and oncological parameters. Watertight anastomosis was present in 84.8% in group A and in 82.5% in group B, respectively. AUR within 4 weeks after RARP occurred in 2.2% (n = 3) in A and 9.4% (n = 15) in B (p = 0.001). AUR within 72 h after catheter removal occurred in group A: 1% (n = 2) and in group B: 6.3% (n = 10) (p = 0.005). Symptomatic urinary tract infections occurred in 8.2% (n = 16) in group A and in 6.9% (n = 11) in group B. There were no differences in the rate of secondary anastomosis dehiscence. Age, BMI, prostate size, surgeon, or intraoperative bladder neck reconstruction were not correlated to the occurrence of AUR or UTI.

Conclusions

The removal of indwelling catheter on day 4 after a RARP with a running barbed suture shows similar anastomosis leakage rates as on the 7th postoperative day. However, AUR rates are higher for early removal. Patients scheduled for early removal should be carefully informed about the increased risk for AUR. Catheter indwelling time does not represent a risk factor for UTI.
A multicenter, double-blind, randomized trial on the bleeding profile of a drospirenone-only pill 4 mg over nine cycles in comparison with desogestrel 0.075 mg
Authors: Palacios Santiago , Colli Enrico , Regidor Pedro-Antonio
Published: November 2019

Purpose

A typical compliance problem in the use of traditional progestin-only pills is the irregular bleeding pattern and the strict daily intake. Desogestrel 75 mg has a 12-h missed-pill window; however, its poor cycle control limits a more common use.

Methods

A drospirenone (DRSP)-only pill was developed to improve the bleeding profile.

Setting

A phase III study in healthy women aged 18–45 years was performed to compare the bleeding profile and safety of a DRSP-only pill in a regime of 24 days of 4 mg of DRSP tablets followed by 4 days of placebo versus desogestrel 0.075 mg per day continuously over nine cycles.

Population

A total of 858 women with 6691 drospirenone and 332 women with 2487 desogestrel treatment cycles were analyzed.

Main outcome measures

The primary end point was the proportion of women with unscheduled bleeding/spotting in each cycle from cycles 2 to 9 and cumulative in cycles 2–4 and cycles 7–9.

Results

In each cycle, up to cycle 7, the proportion of women with unscheduled bleeding was statistically significantly lower in the DRSP group than in the DSG group (p = 0.0001, Chi-square test).

Conclusions

This report describes the improvement in bleeding profile of women using the new DRSP-only oral contraceptive in comparison to DSG, providing a better quality of live and adherence to the contraceptive method.

EudraCT Registration Number: 2011-002396-42.
Patient blood management (PBM) in pregnancy and childbirth: literature review and expert opinion
Authors: Surbek Daniel , Vial Yvan , Girard Thierry , Breymann Christian , Bencaiova Gabriela Amstad , Baud David , Hornung René , Taleghani Behrouz Mansouri , Hösli Irene
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Patient blood management [PBM] has been acknowledged and successfully introduced in a wide range of medical specialities, where blood transfusions are an important issue, including anaesthesiology, orthopaedic surgery, cardiac surgery, or traumatology. Although pregnancy and obstetrics have been recognized as a major field of potential haemorrhage and necessity of blood transfusions, there is still little awareness among obstetricians regarding the importance of PBM in this area. This review, therefore, summarizes the importance of PBM in obstetrics and the current evidence on this topic.

Method

We review the current literature and summarize the current evidence of PBM in pregnant women and postpartum with a focus on postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) using PubMed as literature source. The literature was reviewed and analysed and conclusions were made by the Swiss PBM in obstetrics working group of experts in a consensus meeting.

Results

PBM comprises a series of measures to maintain an adequate haemoglobin level, improve haemostasis and reduce bleeding, aiming to improve patient outcomes. Despite the fact that the WHO has recommended PBM early 2010, the majority of hospitals are in need of guidelines to apply PBM in daily practice. PBM demonstrated a reduction in morbidity, mortality, and costs for patients undergoing surgery or medical interventions with a high bleeding potential. All pregnant women have a significant risk for PPH. Risk factors do exist; however, 60% of women who experience PPH do not have a pre-existing risk factor. Patient blood management in obstetrics must, therefore, not only be focused on women with identified risk factor for PPH, but on all pregnant women. Due to the risk of PPH, which is inherent to every pregnancy, PBM is of particular importance in obstetrics. Although so far, there is no clear guideline how to implement PBM in obstetrics, there are some simple, effective measures to reduce anaemia and the necessity of transfusions in women giving birth and thereby improving clinical outcome and avoiding complications.

Conclusion

PBM in obstetrics is based on three main pillars: diagnostic and/or therapeutic interventions during pregnancy, during delivery and in the postpartum phase. These three main pillars should be kept in mind by all professionals taking care of pregnant women, including obstetricians, general practitioners, midwifes, and anaesthesiologists, to improve pregnancy outcome and optimize resources.
Population genetics of 30 insertion/deletion polymorphisms in the Kuwaiti population
Authors: Haidar Mahdi , Alsaleh Hussain , Haddrill Penelope R.
Published: November 2019

This study evaluates the forensic utility of the 30 insertion and deletion (indel) markers contained in the Qiagen Investigator® DIPplex kit in the Kuwaiti population (n= 150). All but one of the 30 markers were shown to conform to the expectations of the Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium. Linkage disequilibrium tests showed no statistically significant deviation from independence. The high combined power of discrimination (CPD > 99.999%) and low combined match probability (CMP) of 2.736 × 10−13provide a satisfactory level of discrimination, allowing the DIPplex loci to be used as forensic markers for individual identification in Kuwait. The paternity indices indicate the usefulness of the DIPplex kit as a supplementary typing system for challenging paternity cases in Kuwait.
Stable Matching with Uncertain Linear Preferences
Authors: Aziz Haris , Biró Péter , Gaspers Serge , de Haan Ronald , Mattei Nicholas , Rastegari Baharak
Published: November 2019

We consider the two-sided stable matching setting in which there may be uncertainty about the agents’ preferences due to limited information or communication. We consider three models of uncertainty: (1) lottery model—for each agent, there is a probability distribution over linear preferences, (2) compact indifference model—for each agent, a weak preference order is specified and each linear order compatible with the weak order is equally likely and (3) joint probability model—there is a lottery over preference profiles. For each of the models, we study the computational complexity of computing the stability probability of a given matching as well as finding a matching with the highest probability of being stable. We also examine more restricted problems such as deciding whether a certainly stable matching exists. We find a rich complexity landscape for these problems, indicating that the form uncertainty takes is significant.
An investigation of stress inaccuracies and proposed solution in the material point method
Authors: González Acosta José Leόn , Vardon Philip J. , Remmerswaal Guido , Hicks Michael A.
Published: November 2019

Stress inaccuracies (oscillations) are one of the main problems in the material point method (MPM), especially when advanced constitutive models are used. The origins of such oscillations are a combination of poor force and stiffness integration, stress recovery inaccuracies, and cell crossing problems. These are caused mainly by the use of shape function gradients and the use of material points for integration in MPM.
The most common techniques developed to reduce stress oscillations consider adapting the shape function gradients so that they are continuous at the nodes. These techniques improve MPM, but problems remain, particularly in two and three dimensional cases. In this paper, the stress inaccuracies are investigated in detail, with particular reference to an implicit time integration scheme. Three modifications to MPM are implemented, and together these are able to remove almost all of the observed oscillations.
E-Mental Health Anwendungen für depressive und suizidale Menschen: eine Übersicht
Authors: Eichenberg Christiane
Published: November 2019

Das Internet hat sich neben verschiedenen – auch klinisch relevanten – Risiken mittlerweile als ein wichtiges Instrument in Prävention, Selbsthilfe, Beratung und sogar Therapie psychischer Erkrankungen etabliert. Eine derartige Verwendung des Internets im Kontext psychischer und psychosomatischer Erkrankungen wird unter dem Begriff E‑Mental Health zusammengefasst. Online-Anwendungen gehen längst über die Informationsvermittlung durch Gesundheitswebsites hinaus und bestehen zudem aus internetbasierten Interventionsangeboten, Apps, Computerspielen, Social Media-Anwendungen oder Online-Foren. Da evidenzbasierte Therapieverfahren wie Psychotherapie und Psychopharmaka nach wie vor nicht optimal von der Mehrzahl der depressiven Patient_innen in der Bevölkerung genutzt werden, wurden mittlerweile insbesondere für Depressionen und auch Angststörungen zahlreiche Online-Anwendungen zur Behandlung entwickelt und erfolgreich evaluiert. Im Gegensatz dazu werden Online-Anwendungen für suizidale Menschen – vor allem sogenannte „Suizid-Foren“ – medial meist sehr kritisch bewertet. Im folgenden Beitrag werden daher die verschiedenen Anwendungen im E‑Mental-Health Bereich für depressive und suizidale Menschen übersichtsartig vorgestellt und ihre Chancen aber auch Risiken anhand von Forschungsergebnissen kritisch eingeordnet.
Epithelial tissue folding pattern in confined geometry
Authors: Inoue Yasuhiro , Tateo Itsuki , Adachi Taiji
Published: November 2019

The primordium of the exoskeleton of an insect is epithelial tissue with characteristic patterns of folds. As the insect develops from larva to pupa, the spreading of these folds produces the three-dimensional shape of the exoskeleton of the insect. It is known that the three-dimensional exoskeleton shape has already been encoded in characteristic patterns of folds in the primordium; however, a description of how the epithelial tissue forms with the characteristic patterns of folds remains elusive. The present paper suggests a possible mechanism for the formation of the folding pattern. During the primordium development, because of the epithelial tissue is surrounded by other tissues, cell proliferation proceeds within a confined geometry. To elucidate the mechanics of the folding of the epithelial tissue in the confined geometry, we employ a three-dimensional vertex model that expresses tissue deformations based on cell mechanical behaviors and apply the model to examine the effects of cell divisions and the confined geometry on epithelial folding. Our simulation results suggest that the orientation of the axis of cell division is sufficient to cause different folding patterns in silico and that the restraint of out-of-plane deformation due to the confined geometry determines the interspacing of the folds.
Zoonotic Pathogen Seroprevalence in Cattle in a Wildlife–Livestock Interface, Kenya
Authors: Nthiwa Daniel , Alonso Silvia , Odongo David , Kenya Eucharia , Bett Bernard
Published: November 2019

A cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the seroprevalence of Brucella spp. and Leptospira spp. and risk factors of exposure in cattle in three zones with varying land use types and wildlife–livestock interactions. Five villages were selected purposively; two in areas with intensive livestock–wildlife interactions (zone 1), another two in areas with moderate livestock–wildlife interactions (zone 2) and one in areas where wildlife–livestock interactions are rarer (zone 3). Sera samples were collected from 1170 cattle belonging to 390 herds in all the zones and tested for antibodies against Brucella abortus and Leptospira interrogans serovar hardjo using ELISA kits. Data on putative risk factors for seropositivity of these pathogens in cattle were collected using a questionnaire. The overall apparent animal-level seroprevalence of brucellosis and leptospirosis was, respectively, 36.9% (95% CI 34.1–39.8) and 23.5% (95% CI 21.1–26.0). Brucella spp. seroprevalence was higher in zone 1 than in zones 2 and 3 (χ2 = 25.1, df = 2, P < 0.001). Zones 1 and 2 had significantly higher Leptospira spp. seroprevalence than zone 3 (χ2 = 7.0, df = 2, P = 0.029). Results of multivariable analyses identified animal sex (female) and zones (high interface area) as significant predictors (P < 0.05) of animal-level seropositivity of Brucella spp. For Leptospira spp., important predictors of animal-level seropositivity were animal sex (female), zones (moderate interface area) and herds utilizing a communal grazing reserve. The seroprevalences of Brucella spp. and Leptospira spp. in cattle were higher in areas with moderate to high wildlife–livestock interactions than those with rare interactions.
Purchases of medicines among community-dwelling older people: comparing people in the last 2 years of life and those who lived at least 2 years longer
Authors: Pulkki Jutta , Aaltonen Mari , Raitanen Jani , Rissanen Pekka , Jylhä Marja , Forma Leena
Published: November 2019

While it is known that those who are living their last years are frequent users of social and health services, research about medicines at the end of life is scarce. We examined whether the proportions of purchasers and the types of prescription medicines purchased during a 2-year period differed between community-dwelling old people who died (decedents) in 2002, 2006 or 2011 and old people who lived at least 2 years longer (survivors) in Finland. We also examined how those differences changed over time. The study population was identified from nationwide registers and consisted of 174,097 community-dwelling people who were 70 years of age or older. Of these, 81,893 were decedents and 92,204 survivors. Data on purchases of medicines were gathered from the Finnish prescription database. Along with descriptive analyses, binary logistic regression analysis was used to find the association between decedent status and the purchase of medicines in general and different categories of medicines in particular. Almost all community-dwelling decedents and survivors purchased medicines at least once during the 2-year period. Over time, the proportion of purchasers increased in both groups but especially among survivors, thereby reducing the differences between the groups. However, the probability of purchasing medicines in general and different categories of medicine in particular remained significantly higher for decedents than for survivors after adjustments. This study shows that purchases of medication are concentrated at the end of life, as is the use of social and health services. However, the differences between decedents and survivors diminish over time.
The ENHANCED MAGNAPORTHE RESISTANCE 1 locus affects Ramularia leaf spot development in barley
Authors: McGrann Graham R. D. , Miller Steven , Havis Neil D.
Published: November 2019

Ramularia leaf spot (RLS) is a newly-important disease of barley which is caused when the fungus Ramularia collo-cygni enters necrotrophic development during colonisation of the host. Mutant alleles at the barley MILDEW LOCUS O, mlo, locus confer broad spectrum durable resistance against the powdery mildew fungus, Blumeria graminis f. sp. hordei, but can enhance susceptibility to pathogens with necrotrophic development stages such as R. collo-cygni. Given the importance of mlo in spring barley breeding programmes, identifying loci that mitigate the effect of mlo-mediated susceptibility on necrotrophic disease development is an important target. Mutation of the ENHANCED MAGNAPORTHE 1 (emr1) locus which can affect mlo-associated disease susceptibility, leads to a reduction in RLS symptoms on barley leaves but does not reduce R. collo-cygni accumulation. The effect of emr1 on the transition of R. collo-cygni from endophyte to necrotroph may relate to changes in reactive oxygen species in mutant plants which show reduced sensitivity to chloroplastic superoxide induced cell death and has lower relative chlorophyll content compared to mlo plants.
Quantum Structure in Cognition: Human Language as a Boson Gas of Entangled Words
Authors: Aerts Diederik , Beltran Lester
Published: November 2019

We model a piece of text of human language telling a story by means of the quantum structure describing a Bose gas in a state close to a Bose–Einstein condensate near absolute zero temperature. For this we introduce energy levels for the words (concepts) used in the story and we also introduce the new notion of ‘cogniton’ as the quantum of human thought. Words (concepts) are then cognitons in different energy states as it is the case for photons in different energy states, or states of different radiative frequency, when the considered boson gas is that of the quanta of the electromagnetic field. We show that Bose–Einstein statistics delivers a very good model for these pieces of texts telling stories, both for short stories and for long stories of the size of novels. We analyze an unexpected connection with Zipf’s law in human language, the Zipf ranking relating to the energy levels of the words, and the Bose–Einstein graph coinciding with the Zipf graph. We investigate the issue of ‘identity and indistinguishability’ from this new perspective and conjecture that the way one can easily understand how two of ‘the same concepts’ are ‘absolutely identical and indistinguishable’ in human language is also the way in which quantum particles are absolutely identical and indistinguishable in physical reality, providing in this way new evidence for our conceptuality interpretation of quantum theory.
Digitale Gesundheit: Was ändert sich für den Gesundheitsbegriff?
Authors: Wieser Bernhard
Published: November 2019

Dieser Beitrag untersucht, wie sich mit der Entwicklung digitaler Gesundheitstechnologien das Verständnis von Krankheit und Gesundheit ändert. Digitale Technologien sind in einem bedeutsamen Sinn transgressiv. Sie gehen über die kurative und präventive Medizin hinaus und überschreiten die Grenzen zu einer wunscherfüllenden Medizin, die nach Verbesserung und Optimierung des menschlichen Körpers und seiner Leistungsfähigkeit sucht. Vor allem ist digitale Medizin eine Vision. Nicht, was es bereits gibt, sondern was möglich sein könnte, wird mit diesem Begriff in Verbindung gebracht. Digitale Medizin gibt ein Versprechen ab: Wenn es gelingt, medizinisches Wissen und gesundheitsbezogene Daten umfassend zu integrieren, wird es möglich, Krankheiten besser zu heilen, ja sogar ihr Auftreten zu verhindern. In Form eines medizinischen Avatars gießt sich diese Vision in eine konkrete technologische Gestalt. Ein solcher digitaler Zwilling stellt ein Abbild aller physiologischen und psychischen Vorgänge bereit, auf dessen Basis gesundheitsbezogene Prozessabläufe simuliert und therapeutische Maßnahmen evaluiert werden können. Aufgabe sozialwissenschaftlicher Reflexion ist es nun, im Sinne einesVision Assessmentsdie Implikationen neuer Technologien zu diskutieren, bevor sie Realität geworden sind. Besonders bedeutsam sind im diskutierten Zusammenhang die technologisch vermittelten Möglichkeiten eines lückenlosen Monitorings und einer umfassenden Simulation. Durch digitale Gesundheitstechnologien ändert sich nicht nur der Interventionsmodus medizinischen Handelns, sondern auch das, was wir autonomes Subjekt nennen. Gesundheit wird zu einer quantifizierbaren Zielvorgabe und zu einer Optimierungspraxis. Letztlich befördert dies die Ökonomisierung des Sozialen und verändert in tiefgreifender Weise, wie wir uns verhalten, um unsere Gesundheit zu erhalten, Krankheiten heilen oder präventiv verhindern.
Synthesis of super high molecular weight copolymer of AM/NaA/AMPS by oxidation–reduction and controlled radical polymerization
Authors: Yan-feng Ji , Xu-long Cao , Yang-wen Zhu , Hui Xu , Xiu-zhi Sun , Hai-tao Li
Published: November 2019

Super high molecular weight copolymers of AM/NaA/AMPS were prepared by oxidation–reduction [OR-P(AM/NaA/AMPS)] and controlled radical polymerization [CR-P(AM/NaA/AMPS)]. The resulting copolymers were fully characterized, and the reaction conditions for their preparation were optimized. OR-P(AM/NaA/AMPS), CR-P(AM/NaA/AMPS), and conventional partially hydrolyzed polyacrylamide (HPAM) in brine solution were comprehensively characterized by thermogravimetric analysis, scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, and dynamic light scattering. OR-P(AM/NaA/AMPS) and CR-P(AM/NaA/AMPS) containing AMPS monomer showed better salt resistance, temperature tolerance, and viscosification property than the conventional HPAM polymer, making them more promising for enhanced oil recovery. Through comprehensive comparison and analysis, it was found that OR-P(AM/NaA/AMPS) was more conducive for high-temperature condition due to the existence of xanthone in OR-P(AM/NaA/AMPS). On the other hand, CR-P(AM/NaA/AMPS) was more suitable for high-mineral atmosphere, which could be attributed to its higher intrinsic viscosity.
Potential role of hypothalamic microRNAs in regulation of FOS and FTO expression in response to hypoglycemia
Authors: Mussa Bashair M. , Taneera Jalal , Mohammed Abdul Khader , Srivastava Ankita , Mukhopadhyay Debasmita , Sulaiman Nabil
Published: November 2019

Hypoglycemia-associated autonomic failure (HAAF) is a serious complication of diabetes which is associated with the absence of physiological homeostatic counter-regulatory mechanisms that are controlled by the hypothalamus and sympathetic nervous system. Identification of biomarkers for early detection of HAAF requires an advanced understanding of molecular signature of hypoglycemia which is yet to be identified. The outcomes of the present study have shown that the viability and the apoptotic rate of the hypothalamic neurons (mHypoE-N39) were decreased significantly due to hypoglycemia in a dose-dependent fashion (p < 0.05). Although there are more than 1000 miRNAs differentially expressed in hypothalamus, only twelve miRNAs (miR-7a, miR-7b, miR-9, miR-29b, miR-29c, miR-30a, miR-30b, miR-30c, miR-101b-3p, miR-181a-5p, miR-378-3p and miR-873-5p) were correlated to two main hypothalamic regulatory proteins, FOS and FTO. Expression of these proteins was very sensitive to hypoglycemia. We demonstrated that hypoglycemia modulates the expression of hypothalamic miRNAs that are related to FOS and FTO.
Metallic and intra-band investigation of optical properties for Borophene nano-sheet: a DFT study
Authors: Abasi T. , Boochani A. , Masharian S. R.
Published: November 2019

In this paper, using the density functional theory framework with the FP-LAPW + lo method by GGA approximation, the electronic and optical properties such as band structure, density of states, dielectric function, energy loss function, absorption and reflection have been investigated for borophene nano-sheet. The optical properties of the borophene have been changed as the incident light direction whereas has the metallic and semiconductor behavior, in the borophene sheet and perpendicular light angles, respectively. Therefore, it can be said that the optical properties of this material are anisotropic.
Effect of incremental levels of apple pomace and multi enzyme on performance, immune response, gut development and blood biochemical parameters of broiler chickens
Authors: Aghili Amir Hosein , Toghyani Majid , Tabeidian Sayed Ali
Published: November 2019

Purpose

During the apple processing procedures, a large amount of apple pomace is generated which is contains peel, core, seed, calyx, stem, and soft issue. The polyphenolic compounds in apple pomace are strong antioxidants that are able to counterbalance the free radicals; also, it is a rich source of many nutrients such as carbohydrates, minerals, fiber except protein. The experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of different levels of dried apple pomace in broilers diet.

Methods

The incremental levels of dried apple pomace (4, 8, 12, 16 and 20%) with and without enzyme were used in broilers diet (8 dietary treatments). The growth performance, immune response, gut development, antioxidant capacity (TAC) and blood biochemical parameters were evaluated.

Results

The lowest daily weight gain, body weight and poorest feed conversion ratio was obtained by F treatment (P < 0.05), enzyme inclusion along with dried apple pomace had positive effect on growth performance. The antibody titter against Newcastle, Influenza and SRBC was increased by C, H, G and H treatments, respectively (P < 0.05). Antibody titer against NDV, IDV, and SRBC by 4, 8, 12 and TAC by 12, 16 and 20% of dried apple pomace significantly increased. The villous height by 4, 8, 12 and crypt depth by 12, 16 and 20% dried apple pomace significantly and insignificantly decreased, respectively.

Conclusion

The results suggested that the incremental levels of dried apple pomace deteriorate growth performance, modified antibody titer production, total antioxidant capacity and blood parameters of broilers.
Sexual Activity of Patients Undergoing Testicular Sperm Extraction
Authors: Taniguchi Hisanori , Matsuda Tadashi , Nakaoka Yoshiharu , Morimoto Yoshiharu
Published: November 2019

Introduction

For couples who wish for a baby, sexual activity (through intercourse) is the only way to conceive naturally. However, the sexual activity of men undergoing testicular sperm extraction (TESE) and factors that influence it among affected couples are not clearly understood.

Aim

To examine sexual activity among infertile men undergoing TESE and to identify factors that influenced it.

Methods

Married Japanese male patients undergoing TESE were included. Sexual activity during the previous month was surveyed using a questionnaire, and potential predictive factors influencing sexual activity were examined.

Main Outcome Measures

Two hundred twenty-six married men who answered a questionnaire regarding sexual frequency were reviewed retrospectively.

Results

The patient mean age was 35.8 ± 7.5 years (range 23–67) and the mean age of their partners was 32.9 ± 4.5 years (range 23–44). Most couples (n = 193) were in their first marriage, and 33 were remarried. The mean marriage duration was 52.6 ± 42.2 months (range 1–192). Microdissection TESE and conventional TESE were performed for 152 and 74 patients, respectively. Overall, the mean sexual activity during the last month was 3.6 ± 2.6 times (range 0–15). Marriage duration was negatively correlated with the frequency of sexual activity (r = −0.23; P < .01). There were no correlations between sexual activity and patient age, partner age, marriage type (first marriage or remarried), testicular volume, or serum total testosterone concentration. Regression analysis showed that marriage duration (odds ratio = 1.01; 95% CI, 1.003–1.019; P = .009) and testicular volume (odds ratio = 0.94; 95% CI, 0.88–0.99; P = .033) were significant predictors of low sexual activity (0–1 times/month).

Conclusion

The sexual activity of patients undergoing TESE was almost the same as reported previously. Patient age, partner age, testicular volume, and serum total testosterone concentration had no correlation with the reported frequency of sexual activity.
Outcome of combined coronary artery bypass grafting and aortic valve replacement; a case series
Authors: Ahmed Okba F. , kakamad Fahmi H. , Al-Neaimy Saoud Y. , Salih Rawezh Q. , Mohammed Shvan H. , Salih Abdulwahid M.
Published: November 2019

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Co-presentation with both coronary and valve diseases is increasing as the age of the individuals referred for coronary artery intervention rises. The study aims to report a single center experience in combined coronary artery bypass grafting and aortic valve replacement (CABG-AVR).

Methods:

This is a retrospective study from January 2014 till January 2019 in a single center. Inclusion criteria included those patients that underwent combined coronary and aortic valve procedure in a single operation. The data were collected from the hospital registry. All patients underwent preoperative coronary angiography, transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), Doppler study was performed for those patients with previous stroke and peripheral vascular diseases. The cases were followed up for a mean duration of 2 years.

Result:

The study included 62 patients, 38 of them were males, the mean age was 57 years. Prosthetic mechanical valves were inserted in all of the cases, left internal mammary artery (LIMA) was harvested in all the cases, 24 patients (38.7%) had single graft, 26 cases (41.9%) two grafts, and 12 (19.3) had three grafts. The mean cross clamp time was 148.9 min and mean cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) time was 187 min. The overall mortality rate was 6.4% (4 patients).

Conclusion:

With maximum myocardial protection and minimum cross clamp and CPB time and meticulous technique, the outcome of combined CABG-AVR is comparable with isolated CABG or isolated AVR.

Highlights:
A Defence of Lichtenberg
Authors: Merlo Giovanni
Published: November 2019

Cartesians and Lichtenbergians have diverging views of the deliverances of introspection. According to the Cartesians, a rational subject, competent with the relevant concepts, can come to know that he or she thinks – hence, that he or she exists – on the sole basis of his or her introspective awareness of his or her conscious thinking. According to the Lichtenbergians, this is not possible. This paper offers a defence of the Lichtenbergian position using Peacocke and Campbell's recent exchange on Descartes'scogitoas a framework for discussion. A thought-experiment will be presented involving two communities with radically different conceptions of the metaphysics of the self. The purpose of the thought-experiment is to suggest that a substantive metaphysical thesis, whose truth cannot be a priori known, is presupposed by any justified transition from one's introspective awareness of a certain mental activity to the self-ascription of that activity.