bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metaphor processing in middle childhood and at the transition to early adolescence: the role of chronological age, mental age, and verbal intelligence
Authors: DECKERT Matthias , SCHMOEGER Michaela , SCHAUNIG-BUSCH Ines , WILLINGER Ulrike
Published: December 2018

Metaphor development in conjunction with verbal intelligence and linguistic competence in middle childhood and at the transition to early adolescence was investigated. 298 individuals between seven and ten years (chronological age) who attended grades two–four (mental age) were tested for metaphor processing by the Metaphoric Triads Task, for linguistic competence (HELD), and verbal intelligence (WISC-III). Chronological age significantly predicted metaphor processing with a breakpoint of 8.2 years regarding identification and comprehension, and 10.2 years regarding preference. Fourth-graders showed highest metaphor processing scores. Verbal intelligence significantly predicted metaphor processing; this effect became stronger with increasing age. Attributional metaphors were best understood and most preferred. Chronological and mental age are associated with metaphor processing in an age span that is seemingly crucial for metaphor development. Verbal analogical reasoning, concept formation, verbal abstraction, and semantic knowledge predicted metaphor comprehension. Understanding facts, principles, and social situations, and resultant inferential verbal reasoning predicted metaphor preference.
Urban historiography in Latin America: a comparative perspective of research routes
Authors: MARTÍNEZ GERARDO
Published: December 2018

This article is a historiographical analysis of the paths urban history has taken in Latin America. Its perspective is comparative, with particular attention to Mexico as well as references to several other countries. The article offers a general view of the ‘state of the art’, particularly analysing the convoluted routes urban history has navigated. At all levels, there has been uncertainty over the object of study. Latin America was affected by a plethora of development theories. In Mexico, there is an untenable but persistent view of urban historiography as absent or lacking. The following is a brief account of urban history in Latin America, with special analysis and critical examination of the routes taken to date, and a proposal for ways out of the labyrinth.
Effects of multiannual, seasonal unconditional cash transfers on food security and dietary diversity in rural Burkina Faso: the Moderate Acute Malnutrition Out (MAM’Out) cluster-randomized controlled trial
Authors: Houngbe Freddy , Tonguet-Papucci Audrey , Nago Eunice , Gauny Josselin , Ait-Aïssa Myriam , Huneau Jean-François , Kolsteren Patrick , Huybregts Lieven
Published: December 2018

Objective

To evaluate the impact of multiannual, seasonal unconditional cash transfers (UCT) provided within the Moderate Acute Malnutrition Out (MAM’Out) research project on households’ food security and children’s and caregivers’ dietary diversity.

Design

A two-arm cluster-randomized controlled trial with sixteen villages in the intervention group and sixteen others in the control group. A monthly allowance of 10 000 XOF was transferred to caregivers of eligible children via a personal mobile phone account from July to November 2013 and 2014.

Setting

Tapoa province in the eastern region of Burkina Faso.

Participants

Data on household food access (monthly adequate household food provisioning (MAHFP); household food insecurity access scale (HFIAS)) and maternal and child dietary diversity were analysed for 1143 households, 1219 caregivers of reproductive age (15–49 years) and 1247 under-5 children from both intervention and control groups.

Results

The mean women dietary diversity score in intervention caregivers and the mean dietary diversity score (DDS) in intervention children with inadequate minimum DDS at baseline were respectively 7 % (95 % CI 2, 11 %;P= 0·002) and 17 % (95 % CI 11, 23 %;P<0·001) higher compared with the control group. However, no difference was found in the intervention effect on household food security measured with HFIAS (relative risk = 1·03; 95 % CI 0·92, 1·15;P= 0·565) and MAHFP (relative risk = 0·98; 95 % CI 0·96, 1·01;P= 0·426).

Conclusions

Multiannual, seasonalUCT increased dietary diversity in children and their caregivers. They can be recommended in actions aiming to improve maternal and child diet diversity.
Improving Chinese Teachers’ Stress Coping Ability through Group Sandplay
Authors: Sun Ping , Qu Yunxia , Wu Jun , Yu Jing , Liu Weike , Zhao Haidong
Published: December 2018

Teachers are burdened by high work pressure, suggesting the need for an effective stress coping system to support them. The present study evaluated the effectiveness of coping strategies currently utilized by teachers and explored the potential contribution of group sandplay to coping. The study was led by a group of experienced therapists and sandplay practitioners. Two hundred teachers served as participants, equally divided into two groups: An experimental sandplay group (EG) and control group. Both groups received a 3-hour tutorial on the psychological pressure at work, reactions to it, and physical/mental symptoms resulting from overwhelming pressure, and were introduced to the working principles and process of sandplay. EG participants then engaged in group sandplay for three consecutive days. The Simplified Coping Style Questionnaire was used as an objective measure of participants’ coping styles. Therapists’ and practitioners’ observations were used as subjective information, including the scenes and themes created by participants, individual performance during sandplay activities, and feedback regarding changes to stress coping strategies. We compared participants’ pre-and post-test stress coping strategies. The results revealed a significant improvement in the EG sample at the shift from passive coping (pre-testM= 1.94, 95% CI [1.83–2.05]; post-testM= 0.96, 95% CI [0.92–1.00]) to active coping (pre-testM= 1.76, 95% CI [1.69–1.83]; post-testM= 2.41, 95% CI [2.29–2.53]). Overall, our findings support the conclusion that group sandplay effectively improved Chinese teachers’ overall stress coping abilities.
Channel Widening Downstream of Valley Gorges Influenced by Flood Frequency and Floodplain Roughness
Authors: Croissant Thomas , Lague Dimitri , Davy Philippe
Published: December 2018

Mountain fronts are the locus of significant variations in river width characterized by narrow bedrock gorges opening to wider unconfined alluvial rivers that are often braided. The contribution of the abrupt change in river valley confinement in modulating the long‐term transport capacity and the resulting equilibrium channel width has never been considered. Here we use a numerical model integrating the full frequency‐magnitude distribution of streamflow to explore the long‐term bedload transport capacity of idealized confined and unconfined channels, both single thread and braided. The model predicts a significant transport capacity loss for a single channel of constant width at the transition between confined gorges and unconfined floodplains that is slightly reduced when floodplain vegetation is present. Because the total transport capacity of a single‐thread channel systematically decreases with channel width in a stochastic framework, only narrower unconfined channels could compensate for the loss of confinement. This prediction contradicts observations of widening ratios ranging from three to eight downstream of gorges in various world rivers. We resolve this inconsistency by demonstrating that a braided river made of narrow channels inset in a wide floodplain can maintain the total bedload transport capacity downstream of gorges by increasing the range of competent discharges. We also show that riparian vegetation may only enhance bedload transport capacity for highly variable discharge regimes and discuss the relevance of various definitions of representative discharges. These results point to the previously unrecognized role of valley confinement in modulating the sediment transport capacity of rivers.
Regional tau pathology and loneliness in cognitively normal older adults
Authors: d’Oleire Uquillas Federico , Jacobs Heidi I. L. , Biddle Kelsey D. , Properzi Michael , Hanseeuw Bernard , Schultz Aaron P. , Rentz Dorene M. , Johnson Keith A. , Sperling Reisa A. , Donovan Nancy J.
Published: December 2018

Loneliness is a perception of social and emotional isolation that increases in prevalence among older adults during the eighth decade of life. Loneliness has been associated with higher brain amyloid-β deposition, a biologic marker of Alzheimer’s disease, in cognitively normal older adults, suggesting a link with preclinical Alzheimer’s disease pathophysiology. This study examined whether greater loneliness was associated with tau pathology, the other defining feature of Alzheimer’s disease, in 117 cognitively normal older adults. Using flortaucipir positron emission tomography, we measured tau pathology in the entorhinal cortex, a region of initial accumulation in aging adults with or without elevated amyloid-β, and in the inferior temporal cortex, a region of early accumulation typically associated with elevated amyloid-β and memory impairment. Loneliness was measured by self-report using the 3-item UCLA-loneliness scale. We found that higher tau pathology in the right entorhinal cortex was associated with greater loneliness, controlling for age, sex, and apolipoprotein E ε4, the Alzheimer’s disease genetic risk marker. This association remained significant after further adjustment for socioeconomic status, social network, depression and anxiety scores, and memory performance. There was no association of inferior temporal cortical or left entorhinal tau pathology with loneliness. Exploratory whole-brain surface maps supported these findings and identified additional clusters correlating loneliness and tau in the right fusiform gyrus. These results provide further support for loneliness as a socioemotional symptom in preclinical Alzheimer’s disease.
Activation of the motivation-related ventral striatum during delusional experience
Authors: Raij Tuukka T. , Riekki Tapani J. J. , Rikandi Eva , Mäntylä Teemu , Kieseppä Tuula , Suvisaari Jaana
Published: December 2018

Delusion is the most characteristic symptom of psychosis, occurring in almost all first-episode psychosis patients. The motivational salience hypothesis suggests delusion to originate from the experience of abnormal motivational salience. Whether the motivation-related brain circuitries are activated during the actual delusional experience remains, however, unknown. We used a forced-choice answering tree at random intervals during functional magnetic resonance imaging to capture delusional and non-delusional spontaneous experiences in patients with first-episode psychosis (n = 31) or clinical high-risk state (n = 7). The motivation-related brain regions were identified by an automated meta-analysis of 149 studies. Thirteen first-episode patients reported both delusional and non-delusional spontaneous experiences. In these patients, delusional experiences were related to stronger activation of the ventral striatum in both hemispheres. This activation overlapped with the most strongly motivation-related brain regions. These findings provide an empirical link between the actual delusional experience and the motivational salience hypothesis. Further use and development of the present methods in localizing the neurobiological basis of the most characteristic symptoms may be useful in the search for etiopathogenic pathways that result in psychotic disorders.
Estrogen affects the negative feedback loop of PTENP1-miR200c to inhibit PTEN expression in the development of endometrioid endometrial carcinoma
Authors: Chen Ruichao , Zhang Minfen , Liu Wenya , Chen Hui , Cai Tonghui , Xiong Hanzhen , Sheng Xiujie , Liu Shaoyan , Peng Juan , Wang Fang , Chen Hao , Lin Wanrun , Xu Xuehu , Zheng Wenxin , Jiang Qingping
Published: December 2018

Endometrial carcinoma is one of the most common malignancies in the female reproductive system. It is well-known that estrogen plays an important role in the pathogenesis of endometrioid endometrial carcinoma (EEC), and induces the cancer suppressor gene PTEN deletion. However, how estrogen affects PTEN expression remains unknown. In the present study, we found in 40 EEC specimens, miR-200c level was higher in most cancer areas than that in the adjacent normal endometrium, while PTEN and PTENP1 were lower. Moreover, the expression of PTEN/PTENP1 and miR-200c also showed a converse relationship in EEC cell lines. In addition, we demonstrated that miR-200c bound directly to PTEN and PTENP1, and PTENP1 could reverse miR-200c inhibition function to PTEN using a dual-luciferase reporter and RNA binding protein immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays. Next, 17β-estradiol (E2) treatment could improve miR-200c and drop the PTEN level, which caused a consequential increase of the phospho-PI3K-AKT pathway genes. When we stably knocked down estrogen receptor α (ERα) expression in the EEC cell line, the effects of E2 on miR-200c and PTEN declined. In addition, it was demonstrated that E2 might modulate cell proliferation, migration and invasion relying on the expression of miR-200c. Taken together, it can be concluded that estrogen improves the miR-200c level by combining with ER, PTENP1 and PTEN could be inhibited by miR-200c, and then activate the PI3K-AKT pathway. This work provided a new mechanism of EEC development and a new potential therapeutic target.
De novo transcriptome assembly and its annotation for the black ant Formica fusca at the larval stage
Authors: Morandin Claire , Pulliainen Unni , Bos Nick , Schultner Eva
Published: December 2018

Communication and nutrition are major drivers of fitness in ants. While communication is paramount to colony cohesion, nutrition is decisive in regulating reproductive division of labor among colony members. However, neither of these has been studied from a molecular perspective in developing individuals. Here, we report the availability of the first transcriptome resources for larvae of the ant Formica fusca, a species with excellent discrimination abilities and thus the potential to become a model system for studying molecular mechanisms of communication. We generated a comprehensive, high-coverage RNA-seq data set using Illumina RNA-seq technology by sequencing 24 individual 1st - 2nd instar larvae collected from four experimental groups (6 samples per treatment, 49 million mean reads per sample, coverage between 194–253×). A total of 24,765 unigenes were generated using a combination of genome-guided and de novo transcriptome assembly. A comprehensive assembly pipeline and annotation lists are provided. This dataset adds valuable transcriptomic resources for further study of developmental gene expression, transcriptional regulation and functional gene activity in ant larvae.
Operando spectroscopic analyses for the ammonia absorption process of sodium borohydride
Authors: Nakajima Keita , Miyaoka Hiroki , Kojima Kenichi , Ichikawa Takayuki , Kojima Yoshitsugu
Published: December 2018

The ammonia absorption process of sodium borohydride for ammonia storage has been studied by using the operando NMR and FT-IR measurements under various ammonia pressures.
Light harvesting and energy transfer in a porphyrin-based metal organic framework
Authors: Shaikh Shaunak M. , Chakraborty Arnab , Alatis James , Cai Meng , Danilov Evgeny , Morris Amanda J.
Published: December 2018

We present the synthesis and photophysical characterization of a water stable PCN-223(freebase) metal organic framework (MOF) constructed from meso-tetrakis(4-carboxyphenyl)porphyrin (TCPP).
Nanoinjection system for precise direct delivery of biomolecules into single cells
Authors: Yun Chang-Koo , Hwang Jung Wook , Kwak Tae Joon , Chang Woo-Jin , Ha Sungjae , Han Kyuboem , Lee Sanghyun , Choi Yong-Soo
Published: December 2018

We report a three-dimensional nanoinjection system for direct injection of biomolecules into a single cell.
Nano-2-(dimethylamino)-N-(silica-n-propyl)-N,N-dimethylethanaminium chloride as a novel basic catalyst for the efficient synthesis of pyrido[2,3-d:6,5-d′]dipyrimidines
Authors: Zare Abdolkarim , Kohzadian Alireza , Abshirini Zahra , Sajadikhah Seyed Sajad , Phipps Joshua , Benamara Mourad , Beyzavi M. Hassan
Published: December 2018

A novel basic nanocatalyst has been synthesized, fully characterized, and applied to promote the efficient synthesis of pyrido[2,3-d:6,5-d′]dipyrimidines.
Three-dimensional iron oxyfluoride/N-doped carbon hybrid nanocomposites as high-performance cathodes for rechargeable Li-ion batteries
Authors: Li Xiaopeng , Zhang Yongzhi , Meng Yan , Wang Yujue , Tan Guangqun , Yuan Hongyan , Xiao Dan
Published: December 2018

Three-dimensional FeOF/NC hybrid nanocomposites have been successfully synthesized; the 3D nanocomposites exhibit improved electrochemical performances compared to bare FeOF.
Study on the effect of transition metal sulfide in lithium–sulfur battery
Authors: Zhang Kailong , Chen Feifei , Pan Honglin , Wang Li , Wang Di , Jiang Yu , Wang Liangbiao , Qian Yitai
Published: December 2018

Three kinds of transition metal sulfides with different electrochemical potentials have been studied as additives to investigate their effect on the electrochemical performance of Li–S batteries.
Ultrasonic-assisted enzymatic extraction of a water soluble polysaccharide from dragon fruit peel and its antioxidant activity
Authors: Qian Shiquan , Fang Xiaohui , Dan Demiao , Diao Enjie , Lu Zhaoxin
Published: December 2018

A novel water soluble polysaccharide from dragon fruit peel named DFPWSP-1 was isolated and purified and chemical analysis was performed.
Targeting HCV polymerase: a structural and dynamic perspective into the mechanism of selective covalent inhibition
Authors: Shunmugam Letitia , Soliman Mahmoud E. S.
Published: December 2018

In silicostudy investigating the interaction between HCV polymerase and selective covalent inhibitor, compound 47.
Tough and tissue-adhesive polyacrylamide/collagen hydrogel with dopamine-grafted oxidized sodium alginate as crosslinker for cutaneous wound healing
Authors: Bai Zhongxiang , Dan Weihua , Yu Guofei , Wang Yanjun , Chen Yining , Huang Yanping , Yang Changkai , Dan Nianhua
Published: December 2018

Natural collagen has good biocompatibility and ability to promote tissue regeneration; however, its low flexibility and easy degradation hinder its applications in wound repair.
In situ fabrication of a direct Z-scheme photocatalyst by immobilizing CdS quantum dots in the channels of graphene-hybridized and supported mesoporous titanium nanocrystals for high photocatalytic performance under visible light
Authors: Tang Ningmei , Li Youji , Chen Feitai , Han Zhenying
Published: December 2018

CdS@GMT/GR exhibits high photocatalytic activity due to its direct Z-scheme structure obtained by immobilizing CdS quantum dots in the channels of GMT nanocrystals.
Influence of atmospheric species on the electrical properties of functionalized graphene sheets
Authors: Bekdüz Bilge , Kampermann Laura , Mertin Wolfgang , Punckt Christian , Aksay Ilhan A. , Bacher Gerd
Published: December 2018

We report on the time-dependent influence of atmospheric species on the electrical properties of functionalized graphene sheets (FGSs).
Experimental study on the efficiency of dodecafluoro-2-methylpentan-3-one on suppressing lithium-ion battery fires
Authors: Liu Yujun , Duan Qiangling , Xu Jiajia , Chen Haodong , Lu Wei , Wang Qingsong
Published: December 2018

Currently, the effective and prompt suppression of lithium-ion battery fires is still challenging.
Solubility of sulfur dioxide in tetraglyme-NH4SCN ionic liquid: high absorption efficiency
Authors: Xu Qiang , Jiang Wei , Xiao Jianbai , Wei Xionghui
Published: December 2018

Simple prepared tetraglyme-NH4SCN ionic liquid is used to absorb sulfur dioxide efficiently and regenerate.
Synthesis and application of a cationic waterborne polyurethane fixative using quaternary ammonium diol as a chain extender
Authors: Dong Chenghao , Xin Wei , Luo Yunjun
Published: December 2018

The synthesis of a non-toxic cationic WPU fixative with good alkali resistance and excellent application performance has not been previously reported.
Synthesis and characterization of a single phase zeolite A using coal fly ash
Authors: Ren Xiaoyu , Xiao Lifeng , Qu Ruiyang , Liu Shaojun , Ye Dong , Song Hao , Wu Weihong , Zheng Chenghang , Wu Xuecheng , Gao Xiang
Published: December 2018

A single phase zeolite A with high CEC and crystallinity was synthesized by a simple hydrothermal method at low temperature.
Sm-doped manganese-based Zr–Fe polymeric pillared interlayered montmorillonite for low temperature selective catalytic reduction of NOx by NH3 in metallurgical sintering flue gas
Authors: Han Zhicheng , Yu Qingbo , Xue Zhijia , Liu Kaijie , Qin Qin
Published: December 2018

Trace amount of Sm-doped Mn-based Zr–Fe polymeric pillared interlayered montmorillonite promotes low temperature catalytic activity in excess oxygen.
Mass transfer dynamics in the dissolution of Taylor bubbles
Authors: Nirmal Ghata M. , Leary Thomas F. , Ramachandran Arun
Published: December 2018

A mathematical model that incorporates flow physics and concentration profiles to accurately measure mass transfer dynamics on a microfluidic chip.
Zwitterionic shielded polymeric prodrug with folate-targeting and pH responsiveness for drug delivery
Authors: Li Lei , Song Yue , He Jinlin , Zhang Mingzu , Liu Jian , Ni Peihong
Published: December 2018

Zwitterionic polymers are a class of polymers that acts as both Lewis base and Lewis acid in solution.
Dynamics of bias instability in the tungsten-indium-zinc oxide thin film transistor
Authors: Park Hyun-Woo , Kwon Sera , Song Aeran , Choi Dukhyun , Chung Kwun-Bum
Published: December 2018

The key to full understanding of the degradation mechanism of oxide thin film transistors (Ox-TFTs) by gate bias stress is to investigate dynamical changes of the electron trap site at the channel region while a real-time gate bias is applied to the actual thin film transistor (TFT) structure.
Highly stretchable and nonvolatile gelatin-supported deep eutectic solvent gel electrolyte-based ionic skins for strain and pressure sensing
Authors: Qin Huan , Owyeung Rachel E. , Sonkusale Sameer R. , Panzer Matthew J.
Published: December 2018

Gelatin biopolymer-supported deep eutectic solvent gels offer greatly enhanced mechanical properties and nonvolatility compared to their hydrogel analogues for devices that utilize ionically conducting soft materials.
Mechanisms of DNA-reactive and epigenetic chemical carcinogens: applications to carcinogenicity testing and risk assessment
Authors: Kobets Tetyana , Iatropoulos Michael J. , Williams Gary M.
Published: December 2018

Chemicals with carcinogenic activity in either animals or humans produce increases in neoplasia through diverse mechanisms. One mechanism is reaction with nuclear DNA. Other mechanisms consist of epigenetic effects involving either modifications of regulatory macromolecules or perturbation of cellular regulatory processes. The basis for distinguishing between carcinogens that have either DNA reactivity or an epigenetic activity as their primary mechanism of action is detailed in this review. In addition, important applications of information on these mechanisms of action to carcinogenicity testing and human risk assessment are discussed.
Genotoxicity and pharmacokinetic characterization of Cereus jamacaru ethanolic extract in rats
Authors: de Medeiros Iris Ucella , de Medeiros Rhoza Araújo , Bortolin Raul Henandes , de Queiroz Fernando Márlisson , Silbiger Vivian Nogueira , Pflugmacher Stephan , Schwarz Aline
Published: December 2018

The effect of Cereus jamacaru ethanolic extract in rats was analyzed using genotoxicity assays and liver ABCB1 and CYP2D4 gene expression. The lyophilized extract of C. jamacaru cladodes was analyzed with LC–MS/MS. Male Wistar rats (n=36) were equally distributed into six groups that did (+) or did not (−) receive cyclophosphamide treatments: Control (−); Control (+); EXP 1 (−), and EXP 1 (+), both treated with 210 mg/kg of ethanolic extract; and EXP 2 (−) and EXP 2 (+), both treated with 420 mg/kg of ethanolic extract. After 30 d of treatment, body weight and food and water intake were monitored. Right femur of the rats and spinal canal fluid were harvested and used for genotoxicity assays, and the liver samples were used for gene expression studies. The phytochemical analysis identified novel compounds. Animals treated with C. jamacaru showed lower body weight and food ingestion compared to controls (P<0.05). The genotoxicity assay showed an absence of ethanolic extract cytotoxicity. CYP2D4 expression was higher in EXP 2 groups compared with EXP 1 (−) group (P<0.05). ABCB1A expression was higher in negative groups compared with the positive groups. These results indicated a new phytochemical characterization of C. jamacaru and its effect on food ingestion and body weight gain. Moreover, the genotoxicity assay suggested that C. jamacaru ethanolic extract treatment presents significant intrinsic genotoxic potential and the enhanced expression of ABCB1 and CYP2D4 on C. jamacaru extract treatment suggests a role of the efflux transporter and microsomal enzyme, respectively, in C. jamacaru pharmacokinetics.
Increased freedom of movement in the nascent chain results in dynamic changes in the structure of the SecM arrest motif
Authors: Bracken Hazel A. , Woolhead Cheryl A.
Published: December 2018

Ribosomes are responsible for the synthesis of all cellular proteins. Due to the diversity of sequence and properties, it was initially believed that translating nascent chains would travel unhindered through the ribosome exit tunnel, however a small but increasing number of proteins have been identified that interact with the exit tunnel to induce translational arrest, Escherichia coli (E. coli) secretion monitor (SecM) is one such stalling peptide. How and why these peptides interact with the exit tunnel is not fully understood, however key features required for stalling appear to be an essential peptide arrest motif at the C-terminus and compaction of the nascent chain within the exit tunnel upon stalling. Mutagenesis of the SecM arrest sequence has identified three conservative point mutations that can retain a degree of stalling in this highly conserved sequence. This level of stalling is further increased when coupled with mutation of a non-essential arrest motif residue P153A. Further analysis of these mutants by pegylation assays indicates that this increase in stalling activity during translation is due to the ability of the P153A mutation to reintroduce compaction of the nascent chain within the exit tunnel possibly due to the improved flexibility of the nascent chain provided by the removal of a restrictive proline residue. The data presented here suggest that arrest sequences may be more prevalent and less highly conserved than previously thought, and highlight the significance of the interactions between the nascent chain and the exit tunnel to affecting translation arrest.
Interference mitigation for GNSS receivers with dual‐polarised sensitive arrays in the joint space–frequency–polarisation domain
Authors: Wang Haiyang , Yao Zhicheng , Fan Zhiliang , Liu Guangbin
Published: December 2018

For global navigation satellite system (GNSS) receivers with dual‐polarised sensitive arrays (DPSAs), two beamforming algorithms, which can mitigate interferences and preserve GNSS signals in the joint space–frequency–polarisation domain, are proposed. Firstly, the space–frequency–polarisation adaptive processing (SFPAP) architecture is put forward, where the received signal is divided into several frequency bins so that the narrowband array processing technique can be applied. After that, the received signal model corresponding to the SFPAP architecture is established, based on which the covariance matrix for each frequency bin is estimated. Furthermore, two beamforming algorithms based on the SFPAP architecture are proposed for GNSS receivers. Especially, the constraints corresponding to the two proposed SFPAP algorithms are designed to cancel interference and meanwhile form beams towards the desired GNSS satellites in the joint space–frequency–polarisation domain. Moreover, the computational complexity between the proposed SFPAP algorithms and the corresponding space–time–polarisation adaptive processing algorithms is compared. Finally, simulation results show that the proposed algorithms are effective in cancelling interferences and steering beams towards the desired GNSS satellites in the joint space–frequency–polarisation domain.
Network reconfiguration and operation optimisation of distribution system with flexible DC device
Authors: Yang Yanhong , Zhang Shizhong , Pei Wei , Sun Jianjun , Lu Yi
Published: December 2018

In this study, a comprehensive reconfiguration and operation optimisation of distribution system with flexible DC device (FDD) is discussed. The structures of distribution network with FDD are illustrated and the exact operating of FDD set‐points are discussed which realised power flow control and loop closing operation of distribution system. Then, the non‐linear combinational optimisation models of reconfiguration and operation optimisation with FDD are established considering different objectives and constraints. In order to solve the complicated optimisation problems, improved particle swarm algorithm and sequential AC/DC power flow method are used. Results show that the FDD have stronger ability to promote the performance of distribution system with power flow optimal adjusting and cooperation with traditional switch.
Research of chaotic characteristics of low‐voltage air arc
Authors: Leng Xue , Chen Hai , Li Peiyuan , Liu Xiaoming
Published: December 2018

In order to explore the principle of low‐voltage air arc, to find out ways of arc control, and use experimental platform of 220 V air arc generator, the resistive, inductive and resistive loads are taken as the research objects. The research combined with experiments and computer simulation analysis, based on the chaotic phase space reconstruction theory, the C‐C method, the Wolf algorithms and the Cao method, the dynamic chaotic behaviour of the low‐voltage air arc current is identified quantitatively. Through the processing of the experimental and emulational data, the chaotic phase diagrams which describe chaotic attractors clearly are drawn. The LEmax of low‐voltage air arc current are obtained, and the essential characteristic that the chaotic behaviour exists in low‐voltage air arc is revealed and described.
Performance simulation and optimization of COREX shaft furnace with central gas distribution
Authors: Zhang Xingsheng , Luo Zhiguo , Zou Zongshu
Published: December 2018

To improve the distribution of the reducing gas inside the shaft furnace, recently, a central gas distribution (CGD) device is installed at the bottom of the shaft furnace in Bayi Steel. In this work, a two-dimensional steady-state mathematical model, including momentum, heat and mass transfers and chemical reaction, is developed to study the performance of the furnace with CGD. The model is validated by industrial production data of COREX-3000, and then it is used to study the detailed phenomena in the furnace with CGD. The results show that, compared with the traditional COREX shaft furnace without CGD, the CGD device has a positive effect on improving the solid metallization rate (MR) and gas utilization rate (UR). The solid metallization rate (MR) increases from 0.601 to 0.628, the gas utilization rate (UR) increases from 0.3437 to 0.3519 and the standard deviation (STDEV) of solid MR decreases from 0.0820 to 0.0037, which means that the MR of the DRI from the furnace with CGD is more uniform than that without CGD. In addition, the effects of operation conditions and the CGD design on the solid MR, gas UR and STDEV of MR are discussed and the optimized conditions are suggested.
Ernährung nach bariatrischen Operationen
Authors: Legutko Nadine
Published: December 2018

Übergewicht und Adipositas haben in den letzten Jahrzehnten in Deutschland
drastisch zugenommen 1, 2. Parallel dazu lässt sich eine stark
steigende Anzahl an Adipositasoperationen beobachten 3. Die umfassende Betreuung der Patienten vor und nach den
chirurgischen Eingriffen zur Gewichtsreduktion wird vor allem in der
Ernährungstherapie zu einem immer relevanter werdenden Tätigkeitsfeld.
Traditionelle Medizin in Vietnam
Authors: Kraft Karin
Published: December 2018

Die traditionelle Medizin in Vietnam hat im Vergleich zu Deutschland eine wesentlich stärkere Position im Gesundheitswesen und wird sogar staatlich unterstützt. Vietnamesische Krankenhäuser verfügen über Abteilungen für traditionelle Heilverfahren und Phytopharmaka sind beliebte Mittel zur Selbstbehandlung. Staatlich geförderte Initiativen und Forschungsprojekte sind darauf ausgerichtet, die Gesundheitsversorgung der Bevölkerung zu verbessern und gleichzeitig traditionelle Heilmethoden zu erhalten.
Rabbit Model of Extending Knee Joint Contracture: Progression of Joint Motion Restriction and Subsequent Joint Capsule Changes after Immobilization
Authors: Zhou Yun , Zhang Quan Bing , Zhong Hua Zhang , Liu Yi , Li Jun , Lv Hao , Jing Jue Hua
Published: December 2018

This study aimed to develop a rabbit model of knee contracture in extension and investigate the natural history of motion loss and time-dependent changes in the joint capsule after immobilization. We immobilized the unilateral knee joints of 32 rabbits by maintaining the knee joint in a plaster cast at full extension. Eight rabbits were euthanized at 2, 4, 6, and 8 weeks after casting, respectively, and the lower extremities were disarticulated at the hip joint. Eight control group rabbits that did not undergo immobilization were also examined. We assessed the progression of joint contracture by measuring the joint range of motion, evaluating the histologic alteration of the capsule, and assessing the mRNA levels of transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) in the anterior and posterior joint capsules. After 2 weeks of joint immobilization, the knee joint range of motion was limited, the synovial membrane of the suprapatellar and posterior joint capsules was thickened, the collagen deposition was increased, and the mRNA levels of TGF-β1 were elevated in the anterior and posterior joint capsules. These changes progressed rapidly until 6 weeks of immobilization and may advance slowly after 6 weeks. Joint contracture developed at the early stage of immobilization and progressed over time. The changes in the anterior and posterior joint capsules after joint immobilization may contribute to the limitation in flexion. The elevated mRNA expression of TGF-β1 may be related to joint capsule fibrosis and may be one of the causes of joint contracture.
Surgical “Safe Zone”: Rapid Anatomical Identification of the Lesser Occipital Nerve
Authors: Khavanin Nima , Carl Hannah , Yang Robin , Dorafshar Amir
Published: December 2018

Background Surgical intervention has established a vital role in the management of chronic headaches. The lesser occipital nerve (LON) is a common target in patients suffering from occipital neuralgia and is often resected as a first-line option. We endeavored to define the relationships of the LON in the posterolateral neck to facilitate its safe and rapid intraoperative identification.

Methods Seven fresh cadavers (14 nerves) were dissected, and their relationships to the mastoid prominence and nearby spinal accessory nerve (SAN) and greater auricular nerve were noted.

Results The distance from the mastoid to the emergence of the LON along the posterior sternocleidomastoid ranged from 36 to 51 mm (mean: 45.2 mm), with relative symmetry between the two nerves in the same cadaver. The SAN emerged an average of 54 mm from the mastoid prominence.

Conclusion Exploration for the LON should begin at a point 40 mm from the mastoid prominence along the posterior border of the sternocleidomastoid muscle. If the point of exit of the LON is not identified within 10 mm of this exposure, our dissection continues cranially along the posterior border of the sternocleidomastoid, anterior to the trapezius. In rare cases the nerve may pierce the fibers of the muscle and ascend directly on top of the muscle belly. By limiting the caudal extend of the dissection, we can avoid exposure of the SAN and minimize the risk of iatrogenic nerve injury.
Pathophysiologie und Therapie der Osteogenesis imperfecta
Authors: Rehberg M. , Hoyer-Kuhn H. , Semler O.
Published: December 2018

Die Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) ist die häufigste angeborene Skeletterkrankung im Kindes- und Jugendalter. Sie beruht in den meisten Fällen auf Mutationen, die die Kollagensynthese beeinträchtigen. Bei sehr unterschiedlichen Verlaufsformen besteht keine klare Genotyp-Phänotyp-Korrelation. Führendes Symptom sind rezidivierende Frakturen bei inadäquaten Traumata, aber auch extra-skelettale Symptome wie eine Muskelhypotonie oder Schwerhörigkeit gehören dazu. Die Therapie beinhaltet orthopädisch/chirurgische Maßnahmen zur Frakturversorgung und Korrektur von Deformierungen. Die medikamentöse Behandlung beschränkt sich im Kindesalter auf antiresorptive Medikamente wie Bisphosphonate oder das in Erprobung befindliche Denosumab. Nach Ende des Wachstums werden auch osteoanabole Medikamente eingesetzt. Wichtigste Maßnahme zur Anregung des Knochenaufbaus ist die Kräftigung der Muskulatur durch Physiotherapie und Rehabilitation. Um diese Maßnahmen auf einander abzustimmen und Erfahrungen für weitere Therapieverbesserungen zu sammeln, sollte die Behandlung dieser Patienten in spezialisierten Zentren erfolgen.
Nonlinear simulation of free electron laser in a rectangular waveguide and ion-channel guiding
Authors: Pourali M. , Hasanbeigi A. , Mehdian H.
Published: December 2018

In this study, the free electron laser (FEL) with a planar wiggler and an ion-channel in a rectangular waveguide is studied for TE waves with numerical simulation. The output power of FEL is obtained self-consistently from the equation of motion and Maxwell's equations. Numerical analysis shows that using the ion-channel, in spite of the magnetic field case [Sakamoto et al., J. Appl. Phys. 75, 36 (1994)], can improve output power in addition to guiding the electrons into the center and prevent dissipation of the beam.
Effect of elastic modulus of cantilever beam on the performance of unimorph type piezoelectric energy harvester
Authors: Peddigari Mahesh , Lim Kyung-Won , Kim Miso , Park Chan Hee , Yoon Woon-Ha , Hwang Geon-Tae , Ryu Jungho
Published: December 2018

Piezoelectric energy harvesting is a technique that can utilize ambient vibration energy to generate useful electrical energy, which is promising for powering small-scale autonomous devices such as sensors for wearable, biomedical, and industrial applications. Typically, cantilever-type piezoelectric energy harvesters (PEHs) are operated under resonance condition to achieve the maximum output power at low frequency stimuli. Along with resonance matching, it is also necessary to optimize the PEH configuration with high electromechanical properties for the efficient energy conversion. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of the elastic modulus of the passive layer in the cantilever structured PEH on the electromechanical properties and thus harvesting performance. In this regard, two unimorph type PEHs having the identical geometry, piezoelectric properties, and proof mass but with different elastic modulus (55 GPa and 97 GPa) of Ti alloy-based passive layers were fabricated and their output performance was compared under the same acceleration amplitude excitation stimuli. The PEH with the smaller elastic modulus passive layer exhibited almost 53% improvement in the maximum power than that with the higher elastic modulus passive layer, which is attributed to a smaller mechanical damping ratio, higher quality factor, and larger vibration amplitude.
Revenue of consultant physicians for private out-patient consultations
Authors: Freed Gary L. , Allen Amy R.
Published: December 2018

Objective
The aim of this study was to determine the revenue to consultant physicians for private out-patient consultations. Specifically, the study determined changing patterns in revenue from 2011 to 2015 after accounting for bulk-billing rates, changes in gap fees and inflation.

Methods
An analysis was performed of consultant physician Medicare claims data from 2011 to 2015 for initial (Item 110) and subsequent (Item 116) consultations and, for patients with multiple morbidities, initial management planning (Item 132) and review consultations (Item 133). The analysis included 12 medical specialties representative of common adult non-surgical medical care. Revenue to consultant physicians was calculated for initial consultations (Item 110: standard; Item 132: complex) and subsequent consultations (Item 116: standard; Item 133: complex) accounting for bulk-billing rates, changes in gap fees and inflation.

Results
From 2011 to 2015, there was a decrease in inflation-adjusted revenue from standard initial and subsequent consultations (mean –$2.69 and –$1.03 respectively). Accounting for an increase in the use of item codes for complex consultations over the same time period, overall revenue from initial consultations increased (mean +$2.30) and overall revenue from subsequent consultations decreased slightly (mean –$0.28). All values reported are in Australian dollars.

Conclusions
The effect of the multiyear Medicare freeze on consultant physician revenue has been partially offset by changes in billing practices.

What is known about the topic?
There was a ‘freeze’ on Medicare schedule fees for consultations from November 2012 to July 2018. Concerns were expressed that the schedule has not kept pace with inflation and does not represent appropriate payments to physicians.

What does this paper add?
Accounting for bulk-billing, changes in gap fees and inflation, revenue from standard initial and subsequent consultations decreased from 2011 to 2015. Use of item codes for complex consultations (which have associated higher schedule fees) increased from 2011 to 2015. When standard and complex consultation codes are analysed together (and accounting for bulk-billing, changes in gap fees and inflation), revenue from initial consultations increased and revenue from subsequent consultations decreased slightly.

What are the implications for practitioners?
Efforts to control government expenditure through Medicare rebate payment freezes may result in unintended consequences. Although there were no overall decreases in bulk-billing rates, the shift to higher-rebate consultations was noticeable.
Assessing factors affecting adult female white-tailed deer survival in the Northern Great Plains
Authors: Moratz Katherine L. , Gullikson Bailey S. , Michel Eric S. , Jenks Jonathan A. , Grove Daniel M. , Jensen William F.
Published: December 2018

Context Documenting cause-specific mortality and deriving survival estimates for a population are both vital to understanding potential restrictions to population growth. Survival varies among populations of the same species and depends on several factors, including climatic events, density-dependent and density-independent factors, observed predator composition and whether recreational hunting occurs. Therefore, understanding factors affecting adult survival and estimating survival rates at biologically important times will help refine management of these populations. Aims We aimed to assess cause-specific mortality, estimate survival rates, and determine at what part of the winter (January to April) most mortalities occurred for female white-tailed deer located in the Northern Great Plains region of the USA. Methods We captured 165 adult female white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) located in western North Dakota and north-western South Dakota, USA, during the winters of 2014 and 2015. We fitted individuals with Very High Frequency (VHF) radio-collars and located them 1–3 times per week to monitor survival. We investigated all mortalities to establish proximate cause of death. Key Results Survival was lowest during our Hunt time period (S=0.93), although hunter harvest was not the leading cause of mortality. Predation was the greatest source of mortality, particularly during our Post-hunt time period. Additionally, almost 90% of mortalities occurring during the Post-hunt time period happened during late winter before spring green up. Conclusions and Implications Predation was the main source of mortality for adult females in our study, with coyotes (Canis latrans) being the sole predator capable of depredation in our study area. Predation by coyotes may indicate that potential factors, including winter severity and nutritional restrictions, have decreased female body condition, making individuals more susceptible to predation. Although we report relatively high survival, managers should consider the possibility that coyotes may impact adult populations, particularly in regions where other large-sized predators occur, or in regions where coyotes are newly established. Managers should also acknowledge that overwinter density estimates may need to be adjusted during severe winters to account for mortalities that occur after population surveys are conducted.
Cartels as ‘fraud’? Insights from collusion in southern and East Africa in the fertiliser and cement industries
Authors: Vilakazi Thando , Roberts Simon
Published: December 2018

Anti-competitive conduct involves firms misrepresenting their behaviour and manipulating markets. In sector case studies of cement and fertiliser, the authors find that collusion in southern and East Africa operated through industry associations exchanging information, secret agreements and lobbying government to distort notionally developmental policies for private benefit. This has occurred in the context of liberalisation and deregulation. Transnational corporations have leveraged control of infrastructure and inputs, and favourable regulations to sustain market power, while presenting themselves as ‘development partners’. Competition law is portrayed as the ‘governance fix’ for these issues but this ignores political economy issues which underpin many collusive arrangements.
Data, Economics and Computational Agricultural Science
Authors: Antle John M.
Published: December 2018

In this address I discuss the potential for the revolution in data infrastructure, data science and computation to support and accelerate the transformation towards a more productive, healthy and sustainable agricultural systems. A theme that emerges from both the agricultural systems science and economic‐behavioral sciences is that improved acquisition and use of data is a critical constraint on agricultural research and its successful application, both for on‐farm production system management and for technology and policy decision making. This in turn suggests potentially high returns to public investment in the data needed to enable computational agricultural science. I conclude with a prototype private‐public scheme for investment in the data needed to support advanced computational methods and models, and discuss the economic, technical, legal and institutional challenges to its implementation.