bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Allocating natural resource reduction amounts: A data envelopment analysis based‐approach considering production technology heterogeneity
Authors: Song Jiayun , Wei Fangqing , Chu Junfei , Zhu Qingyuan , Yang Feng
Published: June 2019

Previous studies resource allocation methods based on data envelopment analysis assume that all the assessed decision‐making units share a common production technology, and all decision‐making units become efficient after the resources are allocated. However, in the real world, production technology tends to be heterogeneous among the decision‐making units because of the differences in economic development, geographic location, and market conditions. Correspondingly, when some decision‐making units are far away from the efficient frontier, they may not become efficient easily using the resources allocated to them. In this paper, we propose a data envelopment analysis‐based approach which considers production technology heterogeneity among decision‐making units when allocating resource reduction amounts to each. In our model, the decision‐making units are divided into subgroups based on their economic development level, an important indicator directly reflecting each decision‐making unit's production technology level. Each subgroup has its specific production technology, and the decision‐making units in the same subgroup have a similar technology level, which allows better identification of how the production of those decision‐making units can change when their resource inputs change. We present an empirical example using China's mainland provinces as decision‐making units to demonstrate the practicability and applicability of our proposed model.
Adeno‐associated virus (AAV)‐mediated neuroprotective effects on the degenerative retina: the therapeutic potential of erythropoietin
Authors: Tao Ye , Zhu Qi , Wang Liqiang , Zha Xiaobing , Teng Dengke , Xu Lei
Published: June 2019

Retinal degeneration (RD) results in photoreceptor loss and irreversible visual impairments. This study sought to alleviate the photoreceptor degeneration via the adeno‐associated virus (AAV)‐mediated erythropoietin (EPO) therapy. AAV‐2/2‐mCMV‐EPO vectors were constructed and delivered into the subretinal space of a RD model. The retinal morphology, optokinetic behaviour and electrophysiological function of the treated animals were analysed. The subretinal delivery of AAV‐2/2 vectors induced robust EPO gene expressions in the retinas. AAV2/2‐mediated EPO therapy ameliorated the photoreceptor degeneration and visual impairments of the RD animal model. Furthermore, the multi‐electrodes array (MEA) was used to detect the firing activities of retinal ganglion cells. MEA recording showed that the EPO therapy could restrain the spontaneous firing response, enhance the light‐induced firing response and preserve the basic configurations of visual signal pathway in RD model. Our MEA assay provided an example to evaluate the potency of pharmacological compounds on retinal plasticity. In conclusion, AAV2/2‐mediated EPO therapy can ameliorate the photoreceptor degeneration and rectify the abnormities in visual signal transmission. These beneficial results suggest the AAV vector is a viable therapeutic option for retinopathies with rapidly degenerating kinetics and lay the groundwork for future development of EPO gene therapy.
Hydrofluoric Acid‐Free Digestion of Geological Samples for the Quantification of Rare Earth Elements by Inductively Coupled Plasma‐Optical Emission Spectrometry
Authors: Bezerra de Oliveira Andrey Linhares , Afonso Júlio Carlos , da Silva Lilian , Alcover Neto Arnaldo , Castro Carneiro Manuel , Dias da Silva Lílian Irene , Couto Monteiro Maria Inês
Published: June 2019

Rare earth elements (REEs) are very important to technological development as well as to geochemical and environmental studies. In this work, hydrofluoric acid (HF) was replaced by condensed phosphoric acid (CPA) in the digestion of geological samples, and the quantification of REEs was performed by inductively coupled plasma‐optical emission spectrometry (ICP‐OES). Six international reference materials (RMs), named DC86318, CGL 111, CGL 124, CGL 126, OKA‐2 and COQ‐1 and three Brazilian ore samples, named Araxá, Catalão and Pitinga were analysed. Only zircon and xenotime, which are potential REE‐bearing minerals, were not completely dissolved. Nevertheless, no REE associated with zircon was detected. The investigated digestion method presented many advantages: It was relatively fast (3 h), avoided fluoride precipitation, it was less hazardous because handling diluted H3PO4 is safer than HF, NH4F or NH4HF2 aqueous solutions, it preserved the quartz fittings of the measurement equipment and the final solution contained lower levels of total dissolved solids than those produced by the fusion method.
Evolution of interfacial structures and mechanical performance of sapphire and Sn–9Zn–2Al joints by ultrasound
Authors: Xu Yan , Ma Xinran , Yan Jiuchun
Published: June 2019

A method of ultrasonic‐assisted soldering was applied to join sapphire with Sn–9Zn–2Al at 250°C in air. The sapphire samples were hot‐dipped in the liquid filler metal under the ultrasonic action before ultrasonic‐assisted soldering. The experimental results have shown that the joints dipped for different durations had similar morphologies, while the shear strength was dependent on the dipping duration. The shear strength of the joints increased rapidly from 13 to 22 MPa within the hot‐dipping duration of 50 seconds, and increased slowly to 46 MPa at 2000 seconds. The evolution of the interface structure and the fracture mode was analyzed. The interfacial strength was dominated by the deposited Al2O3 at the interface in the early stage. After the entire surface of sapphire was covered by deposited Al2O3, Zn‐rich phases at the interface and the thickening of deposited Al2O3 layer enhanced the interfacial strength at the later stage. Our study revealed the evolution of the interface structure and the strengthening mechanism in the joint of sapphire with Sn–Zn–Al alloys.
Workers’ Remittances and Domestic Investment in South Asia: A Comparative Econometric Inquiry
Authors: Abbas Shujaat
Published: June 2019

This study explores the effect of workers’ remittances on domestic investment in four selected South Asian countries: Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, using contemporary time series estimation techniques from 1980 to 2017. The estimated results of the ARDL bounds approach to cointegration analysis have revealed that among selected South Asian countries, Pakistan has witnessed a significant negative effect in the long run. Similarly, the findings of other forms of capital flows also revealed varying effects across the countries considered. This study urges the transformation of aggregate economic behaviour from consumption to the production side, by adopting policies that would encourage domestic saving and investment activities. In this regard, among others, reduction in the interest rate and the interest rate spread would be beneficial. It urges the identification of factors that conditions varying effect of workers’ remittances and other capital inflows to mitigate negative effects into positive.
Does Remittance Outflow Stimulate or Retard Economic Growth?
Authors: Khan Khalid , Su Chi‐Wei , Tao Ran , Yang Lin
Published: June 2019

This article evaluates the association between remittance outflow (RMO) and economic growth in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. The results of this evaluation indicate that RMO Granger creates gross domestic product (GDP) per capita in three countries, namely, Bahrain, Oman and Saudi Arabia. Similarly, the results for causality from GDP per capita to RMO are significant for four countries, namely, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia. The findings differ from those of the household consumption model, stating that higher RMO will decrease economic activity. GDP per capita is the main determinant of RMO, suggesting that economic growth promises and encourages continuous RMO and vice versa. The adverse impact of RMO can be minimized by encouraging the local population to be productive in the private sector, as local productivity will reduce the huge influx of foreign workers and provide valuable local investment opportunities to lessen the amount being remitted.
“Bending” and beyond: Better estimates of quantitative genetic parameters?
Authors: Meyer Karin
Published: June 2019

Multivariate estimation of genetic parameters involving more than a handful of traits can be afflicted by problems arising through substantial sampling variation. We present a review of underlying causes and proposals to improve estimates, focusing on linear mixed model‐based estimation via restricted maximum likelihood (REML). Both full multivariate analyses and pooling of results from overlapping subsets of traits are considered. It is suggested to impose a penalty on the likelihood designed to reduce sampling variances at the expense of a little additional bias. Simulation results are discussed which demonstrate that this can yield REML estimates that are on average closer to the population values than their unpenalized counterparts. Suitable penalties can be obtained based on assumed prior distributions of selected parameters. Necessary choices of penalty functions and of the stringency of penalization are examined. We argue that scale‐free penalty functions lend themselves to a simple scheme imposing a mild, default penalty which can yield “better” estimates without being likely to incur detrimental effects.
Salt intake and body weight correlate with higher blood pressure in the very elderly population: The Sukagawa study
Authors: Iida Hidekazu , Kurita Noriaki , Takahashi Sei , Sasaki Sho , Nishiwaki Hiroki , Omae Kenji , Yajima Nobuyuki , Fukuma Shingo , Hasegawa Takeshi , Fukuhara Shunichi ,   The Sukagawa Study Group
Published: June 2019

As few epidemiological studies have investigated the effect of lifestyle factors on hypertension in the very elderly population, we conducted a cross‐sectional study to examine the association of estimated salt intake and body weight with blood pressure in the very elderly population. We enrolled 288 participants aged 75 years or older who were residents of Sukagawa City, Fukushima Prefecture, Japan, who attended the health checkup conducted in 2015. Salt intake was estimated from spot urine samples using the Tanaka method. The mean values for age, estimated salt intake, and body weight of all participants were 79.7 years, 9.1 g/d (standard deviation 2.4 g), and 54.3 kg (standard deviation 10.2 kg), respectively. General linear models showed that salt intake and body weight were associated with higher systolic blood pressure (SBP) levels (per standard deviation higher level, adjusted difference 4.13 mm Hg [95% confidence interval 1.69‐6.57] and 5.34 mm Hg [95% confidence interval 2.12‐8.56], respectively). Body weight was associated with higher diastolic blood pressure (DBP) levels (per standard deviation higher level, 2.74 mm Hg [95% confidence interval 0.58‐4.90]). However, salt intake was not associated with higher diastolic blood pressure levels (per standard deviation higher level, 1.15 mm Hg [95% confidence interval −0.49 to 2.79]). Our findings suggest that higher SBP is associated with both salt intake and body weight and that higher DBP is associated with body weight in the very elderly population. This study provides a rationale for lifestyle modifications to prevent hypertension as a population approach.
Lawyers and Jurors: Interrogating Voir Dire Strategies by Analyzing Conversations
Authors: Grosso Catherine M. , O'Brien Barbara
Published: June 2019

This study of individualized jury selection for 792 potential jurors across 12 North Carolina capital cases, selected with purposive case selection, analyzes the conversations that occur during voir dire to examine the process that produces decisions about who serves on juries. Lawyers question prospective jurors in voir dire partly to gather information about prospective jurors’ ability to decide a case without prejudice. Jury selection, however, suffers from what social scientists call demand characteristics. Demand characteristics provide a respondent with clues about the expected response and interfere with effective information gathering. We identified two characteristics that bear on the presence and strength of demand characteristics: the form and tone of the question. We sorted all 8,583 general legal opinion questions along a four‐step scale by combining these characteristics. We then used time‐series analyses to examine responses to these questions in sequence. Juror responses were longest and most likely to include an affective utterance when the demand characteristics were weaker, and that loquaciousness and affect fell at each step of the scale. An independent qualitative study replicated these findings, and supported the assertion that length and form are valid measures of quality in this context.
Evidence of potential vertical transmission of tilapia lake virus
Authors: Yamkasem Jidapa , Tattiyapong Puntanat , Kamlangdee Attapon , Surachetpong Win
Published: June 2019

Tilapia lake virus disease (TiLVD) is an emerging viral disease in tilapia with worldwide distribution. Although the horizontal transmission of TiLV has been demonstrated through the cohabitation of infected fish with susceptible fish, no direct experiment showed the potential of vertical transmission from broodstock to progeny. In this study, natural outbreaks of TiLV in broodstock and fry in two tilapia hatcheries were confirmed. The TiLV genomic RNA was detected in liver and reproductive organs of infected broodstock, while infective virus was isolated in susceptible cell line. In situ hybridization assay confirmed the presence of TiLV in the ovary and testis of naturally infected fish and experimentally challenged fish. Moreover, early detection of TiLV in 2‐day‐old fry and the presence of TiLV genomic RNA and viable virus in the testis and ovary suggested the possible transfer of this virus from infected broodstock to progenies. As infective virus was present in gonads and fry in natural outbreak and experimental fish, the importance of biosecurity and prevention of the virus to establish in the hatchery should be emphasized. Hence, the development of TiLV‐free broodstock and the maintenance of high biosecurity standards in the hatcheries are essential for any attempt of virus eradication.
Antiaging and smoothness‐improving properties of farnesol‐based facial masks on rat skin exposed to ultraviolet B
Authors: Huang Yu Wen , Huang Han Hsiang , Wu Guan Xuan , Chang Huoy Rou , Wu Kun Lieh , Kuo Shyh Ming
Published: June 2019

Background

Farnesol is an acyclic sesquiterpene presents in various natural sources including fruits, vegetables, and herbs. In this study, we successfully prepared a farnesol‐containing gel with ultraviolet B‐screening and skin‐repairing capabilities. Furthermore, the advantageous potential of farnesol‐containing facial masks for UVB‐caused sunburnt skin was evaluated.

Aims

Thus, the objectives of this study are to design and prepare optimal facial masks possessing collagen production and smoothness‐enhancing capabilities for the skin.

Methods

A series of formulations consisting of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, hyaluronan, and farnesol were used to prepare the facial masks. The effects of the facial masks on collagen production by skin fibroblasts in vitro were examined. The effects of the prepared masks on collagen synthesis, smoothness, and inflammation of the skin were further evaluated in vivo using two modes (mask administration interspersed with UVB exposure and mask administration after UVB exposure) of a rat model.

Results

Facial masks containing both 0.3 and 0.8 mM farnesol improved skin smoothness and enhanced collagen content and arrangement in the skin of rats with mask administration interspersed with and after UVB exposure. The masks containing 0.8 mM farnesol exerted the greatest effects on collagen production/arrangement and smoothness improvement in vivo model. Histopathologically observed inflammation was alleviated, and interleukin (IL)‐6 was decreased in the 0.8 mM farnesol‐containing facial mask‐covered skin compared with that without facial masks.

Conclusions

The farnesol‐containing facial masks prepared in this study may have collagen production‐increasing, smoothness‐improving, and anti‐inflammatory properties for UVB‐caused sunburn; thus, farnesol is potentially a beneficial component in facial masks.
Adjusting to life in a residential aged care facility: Perspectives of people with dementia, family members and facility care staff
Authors: Davison Tanya E. , Camões-Costa Vera , Clark Anna
Published: June 2019

Aims and objectives

To determine factors that facilitate or impede adjustment to residential aged care (RAC) from the perspectives of residents with dementia, families of residents with dementia and facility staff.

Background

The transition to a RAC facility can be highly stressful for people with dementia and their families, but we lack an understanding of how people with dementia experience this transition. Knowledge on adjustment to the new environment is essential in order to develop procedures and interventions that better support residents.

Design and methods

This study consisted of interviews with 12 residents with dementia who had resided at a RAC facility for six months or less; 14 family members of RAC residents with dementia; and 12 RAC facility staff members. Parallel interview schedules were constructed, with questions on the experience of relocating to RAC for a person with dementia and views on enablers and barriers to successful adjustment. Thematic analysis guided the analysis of data. The study adhered to the consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research (COREQ) guidelines (see Supplementary File S1).

Results

Adjustment to RAC appeared variable, with several residents reporting poor acceptance of their circumstances several months after the relocation. The three groups were largely congruent regarding the importance of support from families and staff, and the development of new relationships with other residents, but not all residents had succeeded in forming friendships. The provision of meaningful activities and opportunities to exert autonomy day‐to‐day were seen as critical, but staff experienced challenges in providing individualised care due to lack of dedicated time to engage with residents.

Conclusion and relevance to clinical practice

There is a need for evaluated interventions to help people with dementia to successfully transition to RAC. Attention should be paid to the way in which care is coordinated within the RAC sector, to enable staff to provide individualised approaches to facilitate adjustment.
What Is “Quiet” About the New Eugenics?
Authors: Carlson Licia
Published: June 2019

In this response to “The Quiet Progress of the New Eugenics,” I explore the nature of the silences surrounding practices aimed at ending the lives of people with IDD. Taking as a point of departure philosopher Michel Foucault's claim that silence can be productive, and that it is intimately connected to various strategies and power relations that govern discourse, I ask: What silences and absences permeate these fields of inquiry, techniques, and technologies? Whose voices are heard and with what authority? And, how do the authors reveal and break these silences and make room for more voices? I begin by identifying the ways that the authors unmask the connections between these practices and the “old’ eugenics and reveal the underlying assumption that the lives of people of IDD are of poor quality. I then explore three groups whose voices have been silenced or absent: people with IDD who can speak for themselves; people with IDD and other cognitive disabilities who are unable to speak for themselves; and those who are closely connected to people with IDD. I conclude by pointing to further questions and distinctions that are important to address when evaluating and responding to practices aimed at ending the lives of people with IDD.
The New Eugenics and Human Progress
Authors: Brown Ivan
Published: June 2019

Human progress has occurred throughout human existence. It is typically regarded as a positive thing in as much as it proceeds on the basis of, and results in, changes to the human condition that we value. Thus, changes associated with progress occur since they are judged, using current moral standards, to be “good” things and the “right” things to do. Eugenics, the practice of purposely bettering society by influencing its genetic makeup, was a philosophical and practical tool used by leaders of European societies and the countries under their influence during the final two decades of the 19th and the first half of the 20th centuries. This was not entirely a new idea, however, as ways of purposely manipulating genetics of plants, animals, and humans have been practiced before recorded human history. The practice of eugenics went “too far” by Nazis during World War II for international moral standards and was quickly abandoned in favor of an international emphasis on human rights. Still, eugenics practices continued and continue to the current time. Today, we are faced with the question of whether or not this is a prudent path to follow, especially given that progress in medical and genetic fields is expanding at a very rapid pace. It is suggested here that rapid progress in these areas in the future may make any current practices of the new eugenic not only outdated, but also irrelevant. Thus, it seems unwise to follow new eugenics practices in a whole‐hearted way.
New Eugenics, Old Problems
Authors: Swenson Sue
Published: June 2019

A parent advocate who is also an officer of Inclusion International examines some aspects of the new eugenics in a humanistic framework. The essay is based on personal experience and the work of self‐advocates and includes references to humane letters.
Haematologic toxicity in dogs with mast cell tumours treated with vinblastine/prednisolone chemotherapy with/without radiotherapy
Authors: Stiborova K. , Treggiari E. , Amores‐Fuster I. , del Busto I. , Killick D. , Maddox T. , Marrington M. , Mason S. L. , Blackwood L.
Published: June 2019

Objectives

To determine whether dogs with surgically excised mast cell tumours receiving a vinblastine/prednisolone chemotherapy protocol in combination with radiation therapy are at greater risk of myelosuppression than patients receiving the chemotherapy protocol alone.

Materials and Methods

Retrospective study of clinical records of dogs with mast cell tumours that, subsequent to surgical excision, had received combination vinblasine/prednisolone chemotherapy. Dogs were assigned to two groups: those treated with adjunctive radiotherapy and vinblastine/prednisolone (RT group) and those treated with surgery followed by vinblastine/prednisolone alone (control group). Haematology results were compared between groups.

Results

Forty‐three cases and 43 controls of similar breed, age and bodyweight were included. Concurrent radiation and vinblastine chemotherapy did not appear to increase the risk of neutropenia, which was observed in 18.6 and 23.2% of cases in the RT and control groups, respectively.

Clinical Significance

Radiation and vinblastine chemotherapy can be safely combined in dogs with mast cell tumours without increasing the risk of clinically important myelosuppression.
GWAS identifying HLA‐DPB1 gene variants associated with responsiveness to hepatitis B virus vaccination in Koreans: Independent association of HLA‐DPB1*04:02 possessing rs1042169 G ‐ rs9277355 C ‐ rs9277356 A
Authors: Chung Soie , Roh Eun Youn , Park Boram , Lee Yunhwan , Shin Sue , Yoon Jong Hyun , Song Eun Young
Published: June 2019

Recently, HLA class II loci, including HLA‐DPB1, have been reported to be associated with interindividual variance in the hepatitis B (HB) vaccine response. In this study, we investigated significant single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for anti‐HBs antibody levels in 6867 healthy Koreans using a genome‐wide association study (GWAS). In GWAS, the top 20 SNPs that showed significant association with anti‐HBs levels (P < 1.0 × 10−29) all resided in HLA‐DPB1. Utilizing PCR sequencing, we verified the relationship of the top 3 most significant SNPs (rs1042169, rs9277355 and rs9277356) from the GWAS and genotypes of HLA‐DPB1 with the HB vaccine response in Korean infants who received a scheduled vaccination. The DPB1*04:02 allele has G, C and A nucleotides for the 3SNP sites, and was significantly more frequent in responders than in nonresponders (10.9% vs 1.0%, Pc = 0.018). DPB1*05:01 was significantly more frequent in nonresponders than in responders (49.0% vs 31.1%, Pc = 0.018). In multivariate logistic regression, DPB1*04:02 showed a significant association with both vaccine response (P = 0.037, OR = 8.465) and high‐titre response (P = 0.027, OR = 9.860). The haplotypes rs1042169 G ‐ rs9277355 C ‐ rs9277356 A showed a significant association with a high‐titre response only (P = 0.002, OR = 2.941). In conclusion, DPB1*04:02 possessing rs1042169 G ‐ rs9277355 C ‐ rs9277356 A is an independent predictor of the HB vaccine response in Koreans.
Direct‐acting antivirals for HCV treatment in older patients: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Villani Rosanna , Monami Matteo , Di Cosimo Francesca , Fioravanti Gilda , Mannucci Edoardo , Vendemiale Gianluigi , Serviddio Gaetano
Published: June 2019

The advent of highly effective and well‐tolerated direct antiviral antivirals (DAAs) has dramatically changed the landscape of chronic hepatitis C. The effect of DAAs in older adults is difficult to determine since patients aged ≥ 65 years were too few in most clinical trials and data mainly come from observational studies. We performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis to evaluate the efficacy and safety of DAAs in patients aged 65 and older. PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, ClinicalTrials.gov, HCV‐Trials.com databases were searched for literature published until 1 December 2017. English language articles reporting results of phase 2 or 3 randomized controlled trials (RCTs), single‐arm clinical trials (SATs) and observational studies were included in the final analysis. All studies included subgroups of older patients and compared their outcomes with younger individuals. By using a random‐effects or fixed‐effects model, odds ratio (OR) was calculated for the efficacy and safety. Heterogeneity was tested using I2 statistics. Thirty‐seven studies reported data on the DAA efficacy. The OR was 1.66 (95%CI: 1.00‐2.75; P = 0.06) in meta‐analysis of RCTs, and similar results were found in SATs and observational studies. HCV genotype, stage of fibrosis or HIV co‐infection did not affect the rate of SVR in older persons. Prevalence of anaemia (OR 0.26 95%CI: 0.09‐0.69; P = 0.007) (OR 0.25 95%CI: 0.09‐0.69; P = 0.007) and skin complaints (OR 0.61 95%CI: 0.45‐0.83; P = 0.001) was higher in older adults. Finally, geriatric patients affected by chronic HCV infection can be safely treated with DAAs with the same efficacy reported in younger adults.
Discovery of a bone‐like blood particle in the peripheral circulation of humans and rodents
Authors: Prisby Rhonda , Ross Jean , Opdenaker Lynn , McLane Mary Ann , Lee Seungyong , Sun Xiangle , Guderian Sophie
Published: June 2019

Objective

To characterize ossified bone marrow blood vessels and confirm the presence of ossified particles (OSP) in humans and rodents.

Methods

Human bone marrow blood vessels were processed for scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Whole blood samples were collected from younger (26‐39 years; n = 6) and older (55‐63 years; n = 6) volunteers and male Fischer‐344 rats (1 month, n = 7; 6 months, n = 7; 12 months, n = 7; 18‐months, n = 6; 24 months, n = 8). OSP in the whole blood samples were sorted and imaged with microscopy to determine diameter, circularity, and solidity. Additionally, the chemical composition of OSP was determined via elemental analysis.

Results

SEM revealed two types of ossified bone marrow blood vessels: that is, “transitioning” and “ossified.” OSP were adhered to the surface of transitioning vessels and theoretically gain access to and circulate within the blood. The majority of OSP were ≤15 μm in diameter, but many were of sufficient size to serve as emboli (ie, >15 μm).OSP were predominately oblong in shape and several had jagged tips and edges.

Conclusions

We introduce a novel, bone‐like blood particle that may be diagnostic of bone marrow blood vessel ossification. Further, OSP may associate with several disease states (eg, atherosclerosis).
Pathogenic free‐living amoebic encephalitis in Japan
Authors: Hara Tatsuru , Yagita Kenji , Sugita Yasuo
Published: June 2019

Over 600 cases of amoebic encephalitis caused by pathogenic free‐living amoebas (Balamuthia mandrillaris, Acanthamoeba spp., and Naegleria fowleri) have been reported worldwide, and in Japan, 24 cases have been reported from the first case in 1976 up to 2018. Among these cases, 18 were caused by B. mandrillaris, four by Acanthamoeba spp., one by N. fowleri, and one was of unknown etiology. Additionally, eight cases were diagnosed with encephalitis due to pathogenic free‐living amoebas before death, but only three cases were successfully treated. Unfortunately, all other cases were diagnosed by autopsy. These facts indicate that an adequate diagnosis is difficult, because encephalitis due to pathogenic free‐living amoebas does not show typical symptoms or laboratory findings. Moreover, because the number of cases is limited, other cases might have been missed outside of those diagnosed by autopsy. Cases of encephalitis caused by B. mandrillaris have been reported from all over Japan, with B. mandrillaris recently isolated from soil in Aomori prefecture. Therefore, encephalitis caused by pathogenic free‐living amoebas should be added to the differential diagnosis of encephalitis patients.
Leaf reflectance spectroscopy captures variation in carboxylation capacity across species, canopy environment and leaf age in lowland moist tropical forests
Authors: Wu Jin , Rogers Alistair , Albert Loren P. , Ely Kim , Prohaska Neill , Wolfe Brett T. , Oliveira Raimundo Cosme , Saleska Scott R. , Serbin Shawn P.
Published: June 2019

Understanding the pronounced seasonal and spatial variation in leaf carboxylation capacity (Vc,max) is critical for determining terrestrial carbon cycling in tropical forests. However, an efficient and scalable approach for predicting Vc,max is still lacking.

Here the ability of leaf spectroscopy for rapid estimation of Vc,max was tested. Vc,max was estimated using traditional gas exchange methods, and measured reflectance spectra and leaf age in leaves sampled from tropical forests in Panama and Brazil. These data were used to build a model to predict Vc,max from leaf spectra.

The results demonstrated that leaf spectroscopy accurately predicts Vc,max of mature leaves in Panamanian tropical forests (R2 = 0.90). However, this single‐age model required recalibration when applied to broader leaf demographic classes (i.e. immature leaves). Combined use of spectroscopy models for Vc,max and leaf age enabled construction of the Vc,max–age relationship solely from leaf spectra, which agreed with field observations. This suggests that the spectroscopy technique can capture the seasonal variability in Vc,max, assuming sufficient sampling across diverse species, leaf ages and canopy environments.

This finding will aid development of remote sensing approaches that can be used to characterize Vc,max in moist tropical forests and enable an efficient means to parameterize and evaluate terrestrial biosphere models.
Generating political commitment for ending malnutrition in all its forms: A system dynamics approach for strengthening nutrition actor networks
Authors: Baker Phillip , Brown Andrew D. , Wingrove Kate , Allender Steve , Walls Helen , Cullerton Katherine , Lee Amanda , Demaio Alessandro , Lawrence Mark
Published: June 2019

Generating political commitment for ending all forms of malnutrition represents a key challenge for the global nutrition community. Without commitment, the policies, programs, and resources needed to improve nutrition are unlikely to be adopted, effectively implemented, nor sustained. One essential driver of commitment is nutrition actor network (NAN) effectiveness, the web of individuals and organizations operating within a given country who share a common interest in improving nutrition and who act collectively to do so. To inform new thinking and action towards strengthening NAN effectiveness, we use a systems dynamics theoretical approach and literature review to build initial causal loop diagrams (CLDs) of political commitment and NAN effectiveness and a qualitative group model building (GMB) method involving an expert workshop to strengthen model validity. First, a “nutrition commitment system” CLD demonstrates how five interrelated forms of commitment—rhetorical, institutional, operational, embedded, and system‐wide—can dynamically reinforce or diminish one another over time. Second, we present CLDs demonstrating factors shaping NAN effectiveness organized into three categories: actor features, resources, and capacities; framing strategies, evidence, and norms; and institutional, political, and societal contexts. Together, these models generate hypotheses on how political commitment and NAN effectiveness could be strengthened in future and may provide potential starting points for country‐specific conversations for doing so.
Comparative Analysis of Early Follow‐up of Biologic Fixation and Cemented Stem Fixation for Femoral Tumor Prosthesis
Authors: Li Yuan , Sun Yang , Shan Hua‐chao , Niu Xiao‐hui
Published: June 2019

Objective

To compare the safety and efficacy between biologic fixation and traditional cement stems for the fixation of distal femoral prostheses for reconstruction following tumor resection.

Methods

Retrospective analysis was performed of patients who received a first distal femoral tumor prosthesis, with a rotating hinge, in the Department of Orthopaedic Oncology of Beijing Jishuitan Hospital between October 2011 and January 2016. Two hundred and sixty eligible cases were enrolled, with a cemented fixation used in 199 of these cases and a biologic fixation in 61 cases. Survival rates and survival time of prostheses were analyzed, with prosthetic failure considered as the endpoint event for survival time of the prosthesis. Kaplan–Meier survival curve and the log‐rank test were used to compare survival rates between the two types of fixation methods, and factors that may affect the survival rate of prosthesis were evaluated.

Results

Of the 260 cases forming our study group, 138 were males and 122 females, with 102 males and 97 females in the cemented fixation group (mean age, 25.8 years; range, 8–72 years) and 36 males and 25 females in the biologic fixation group (mean age, 25.5 years; range, 12–59 years). Osteosarcoma was the most common type of tumor (188 cases, 72.3%), of which 145 cases (72.9%) were in the cemented and 45 cases (72.1%) in the biologic fixation group. Among the 260 cases enrolled into the study group, 13 patients were lost to follow‐up. The average duration of follow‐up for the remaining 247 cases was 28.8 months (median, 28.8 months; range, 4–61 months). The 3‐year overall survival rate of prostheses was 87.2% for the biologic fixation group and 80.4% in the cemented fixation group (P = 0.389). The 3‐year mechanical survival rate (excluding cases of infection and oncologic progression) was 100% for the biologic fixation and 97.6% for the cemented fixation group (P = 0.468). Complications were identified in 21 cases: 3 cases (5%) in the biologic and 18 cases (9.6%) in the cemented fixation group (P = 0.264). Two revisions were required in the cemented fixation group, but no revision was required in the biologic fixation group. A total of 10 patients required amputation after prosthesis implantation. Of these, 7 cases (4 cement and 3 biologic) were due to tumor recurrence; 3 cases were due to infection, with all cases occurring in the cement fixation group.

Conclusion

The current study provides a baseline reference for future mid‐term to long‐term follow‐up, laying the foundation for further studies and comparison of the incidence of aseptic loosening of both types of prosthesis.
Intra‐Observer and Inter‐Observer Reliability of Shaft Condylar Angle and Lateral Capitellohumeral Angle: Evaluation Based on Reliability in Different Ages and Levels of Experience
Authors: Musikachart Piyanuch , Ariyawatkul Thanase , Wongcharoenwatana Jidapa , Piamthipmanas Tananthorn , Chanchoo Suchitphon , Eamsobhana Perajit
Published: June 2019

Objectives

The aims of this paper were: (i) to examine the intra‐observer and inter‐observer reliability of the shaft‐condylar angle (SCA) and the lateral capitellohumeral angle (LCHA); (ii) to study the influence of experience level on the inter‐observer and intra‐observer reliability; and (iii) to determine the influence of the the age of the patients on reliability.

Method

A retrospective cohort study was conducted. The study reviewed 81 elbow radiographs. The patients were aged between 2 and 13 years. All the images taken between 2000 and 2017 were independently measured by a senior pediatric orthopaedic surgeon, a pediatric orthopaedic surgeon, a pediatric orthopaedic fellow, an orthopaedic chief resident, a general practitioner, and a pediatric orthopaedic research assistant. Measurement was performed two times within a 2‐week interval. Inexperienced observers (general practitioner and research assistant) were supervised by senior pediatric orthopaedic surgeons for at least 30 radiographs before performing the measurement. Inclusion criteria were as follows: (i) age 2–13 years; and (ii) no previous elbow fracture. Exclusion criteria: elbow radiographs do not show true lateral view. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to calculate the reliability.

Results

The mean values of SCA and LCHA were 43° and 48°, respectively. For SCA, intra‐observer reliability was excellent (ICC = 0.85) for one observer, good (range = 0.73–0.76) for three observers, and moderate (0.59) for one observer. Inter‐observer reliability was moderate (0.48, 0.58), whereas the reliability categorized by age group showed excellent agreement (0.88–0.94). For LCHA, intra‐observer reliability was excellent (0.84–0.89) for three observers and good (0.66–0.80) for two observers. Inter‐observer reliability was moderate (0.44–0.45). Conversely, the reliability classified by age group showed excellent agreement (0.83–0.91).

Conclusion

Intra‐observer reliability for LCHA and SCA were excellent to good for most observers. Inter‐observer reliability was moderate for LCHA and SCA. Reliability classified by age group showed excellent to good agreement. Reliability was influenced by the level of experience, especially for non‐medical staff.
Reflective structured dialogue: A conversation with 2018 American Academy of Religion excellence in teaching award winner Jill DeTemple
Authors: DeTemple Jill , Gallagher Eugene V. , Pui Lan Kwok , Pearson Thomas
Published: June 2019

This conversation between the 2018 American Academy of Religion Excellence in Teaching Award winner Jill DeTemple and the editors of Teaching Theology and Religion continues an occasional series of interviews that has previously featured Jonathan Z. Smith, Stephen Prothero, Mary Pierce Brosmer, Mary Elizabeth Mullino Moore, and two previous AAR Teaching Award Winners, Joanne Maguire and Lynn Neal. After initial discussion about teaching the intro course we launch into a long discussion of “Reflective Structured Dialogue” – an effective teaching technique for staging contentious conversations, building trust and understanding, and a dialogic culture of curiosity.
Synthesis of Zinc Oxide Supported on Titanium Dioxide for Photocatalytic Oxidative Desulfurization of Dibenzothiophene
Authors: C.N.C. Hitam, , A.A. Jalil, , S. Triwahyono,
Published: June 2019

Photocatalytic oxidative desulfurization (PODS) has received much attention due to low energy consumption and high efficiency, as well as simple and pollution-free operation. In this study, zinc oxide supported on titanium dioxide (ZnO/TiO2) catalysts were prepared via a simple electrochemical method. The presence of anatase phase TiO2 and wurtzite ZnO was confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis while band gap energies were determined by UV-Vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV-Vis DRS). The photocatalytic activity was tested for desulfurization of 100 mg/L dibenzothiophene (DBT). The highest desulfurization rate (2.20 × 10-3 mM/min) was achieved using 1 g/L of 10 wt% ZnO/TiO2 after 2 hr under UV irradiation.
Thermal Characterization of Malaysian Biomass via Thermogravimetric Analysis
Authors: Balasundram Vekes , Alias Noorhaza , Ibrahim Norazana , Md. Kasmani Rafiziana , Isha Ruzinah , Abd. Hamid Mohd. Kamaruddin , Hasbullah Hasrinah
Published: June 2019

In this work, thermal degradation behavior of six local biomasses such as empty fruit bunch, rice husk, coconut pulp, saw dust, coconut shell, and sugarcane bagasse in Malaysia via pyrolysis was studied. The pyrolysis process was carried out from 25 to 700 °C under nitrogen atmosphere flowing at 150 ml/min via a thermogravimetric analyzer. The effect of biomass type was investigated on pyrolysis behavior. The particle size of biomass was in the range of 0.3 ≤ dp1 < 0.5 mm, whereas the heating rate was fixed at 80 °C/min. The thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) data were divided into three phases of degradation: moisture evolution, hemicellulose-cellulose degradation, and lignin degradation. The results showed that all biomass samples degraded between 25 and 170 °C in Phase I of moisture evolution. Among the biomass samples, coconut pulp achieved the highest mass loss (81.9%) in Phase II of hemicellulose-cellulose degradation. Lignin in all biomass samples gradually degraded from 450 to 700 °C in Phase III of lignin degradation. This study provides an important basis in understanding the intrinsic thermochemistry behind degradation reactions.
Fermentation of Microalgae Biomass through Mild Acid Pretreatment for Bioethanol Production
Authors: Chng Lee Muei , S.K. Teo Kenneth , Chieh Chan Derek Juinn , Lee Keat Teong , Yi Toh Pey
Published: June 2019

Conversion of microalgae biomass to bioethanol is actively being researched to establish a cost effective and sustainable production technology. The main challenge is to break down the carbohydrates content in the biomass to obtain fermentable sugar for subsequent fermentation process. This study focuses on the effectiveness of the usage phosphoric acid pretreatment and capability of Saccharomyces diastaticus as the fermentation microbe to produce ethanol. Scenedesmus dimorphus microalgae biomass was used as the feedstock due to its high carbohydrate content. Mild acid hydrolysis at various conditions were carried out on biomass and the hydrolysates were subjected to fermentation. The optimum condition of acid pre-treatment using phosphoric acid was determined in this study. Based on the results, bioethanol yield of 94% was obtained at optimum condition of 2.5% v/v phosphoric acid at temperature of 120 °C for 30 min. This study proved that combination of phosphoric acid pre-treatment process with Saccharomyces diastaticus yeast provides a practicable method for the production of bioethanol from microalgae.
Human Scalp Hair (HSH) Waste as an Alternative for Reducing Invasive Activity of Wild Hog: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Kamsano Nur Suraya , Sohaili Johan , Muniyandi Shantha Kumari , Supian Nur Sumaiyyah
Published: June 2019

The weaknesses in the human hair waste management system has brought many environmental problems that are rarely taken into account. In most of rural areas, this waste is still being used by farmers to protect their plantation from wild hog attacks. However, this traditional practice is seem unpopular and has little exposure. Study in the past related to this waste in Malaysia is still far behind compared to other countries. Moreover, the past practices of this waste as repellent did not highlight the prior procedure and their effectiveness as pest controller to control invasive activity of wild hog. This study aims to briefly discuss on the conflict of human and wild hog, past mitigation practices, potential usage of hair waste as temporary repellent and to share the result of 5 days pilot study through field trial conducted in small orchard in Muar. In this study, fermented corn bait has been applied at the study area to increase the activities and probability of visitation of wild hog. Four (4) samples were placed in the private orchard namely (A) 5kg whole kernel corn; (B) 5kg whole kernel corn mixed with 20g of hair; (C) 5kg whole kernel corn mixed with 40g hair; and (D) 5kg whole kernel corn mixed with 60g hair. The result during feeding test is observed and analysed. Through this pilot study, it indicates the potential of hair waste application as a temporary wild hog repellent.
Characterization of Sago-based Biochar as Potential Feedstock for Solid Fuel
Authors: Rambli Jakaria , Wan Abd Karim Ghani Wan Azlina , Mohd Salleh Mohamad Amran
Published: June 2019

Due to decreasing supply of fossil fuels and growing environmental concerns, the application of biomass-derived energy is gaining in importance nowadays. In this study, batch pyrolysis was used to derive biochar from Sago (Metroxylon Spp) in an electrical furnance reactor. Raw biomass was selected from different sources of Sago palm including barks, fronds and cortex and the characterization was conducted for each source individually. The range between 350 ºC and 550 ºC temperature, the materials were pyrolyzed and with constant nitrogen flow rate of 50 mL min-1. Each sample of biochar produced are evaluated through proximate analysis, ultimate analysis and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to study its potential as solid fuel for energy production. The pH value of biochar was also calculated experimentally. The total yield following by the amount of ash, volatile matter, fixed carbon content and high heating value (calorific value) were obtained in the results of all three biochar samples. Various pyrolysis temperatures resulted in different char production yield and therefore the carbon content of the produced biochars were varied within the range of 40 to 53 wt. % which is corresponded to 35 to 40 wt. % of the carbon content in biomass samples. The pH of biochar was observed to increase from 7 to 8.3 with temperature rised from 350 ºC to 550 ºC. The results from this study can be used to establish the ideal utilization routes of biomass in production of biochar as well as the source of energy.
Effect of ZSM-5 Acidity in Enhancement of Methanol-to-Olefins Process
Authors: H. U. Hambali , A. A. Jalil , T. J. Siang , A. A. Abdulrasheed , N. A. A. Fatah , I. Hussain , M. S. Azami
Published: June 2019

The skyrocketing demand for olefins especially propylene, have necessitated continuous efforts in finding alternate route for olefins production. Hence, methanol to olefins (MTO) was recognized as a feasible process since methanol could simply be mass produced from any gasifiable carbon-based feedstock, such as natural gas, coal, and biomass. Essentially, obtaining a more stable catalyst would improve economy of the MTO process. Acidity of catalyst has major influence in MTO, thus it is an indispensable parameter for conversion of methanol into value-added products. The present paper discusses the reactions involved in MTO process and the effect of acidity in enhancement of light olefin selectivity and catalytic stability. The paper also captured perspectives of crucial research and future direction for catalysts development and technologies that can potentiallly boost olefin production and make it competitive with the conventional olefin production processes.