bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
When Silicon Materials Meet Natural Sources: Opportunities and Challenges for Low‐Cost Lithium Storage
Authors: Rehman Waheed Ur , Wang Haifeng , Manj Rana Zafar Abbas , Luo Wei , Yang Jianping
Published: October 2019

The manipulation of progressive lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) with high energy density, low cost, and long‐term cycling stability is of high priority to meet the growing demands for next‐generation energy storage devices. Silicon (Si) has been receiving marvelous attention as a promising anode material for rechargeable LIBs, due to its high theoretical gravimetric capacity and low cost. Si is the second most abundant element in the earth crust in the form of silicates, so it is the most cost‐effective element as an anode material in next‐generation LIBs. In this review, different natural sources such as rice husk, sugar cane bagasse, bamboo, reed plant, sand, halloysite, and different waste sources such as waste of the solar power industry, fly ash, straw ash, and other industrial waste that can give rise to different nanostructured Si are systematically summarized. In addition, different synthesis methods of fabricating nanostructured Si are reviewed as well as including magnesiothermic reduction, etching methods, ball milling, and chemical vapor deposition. The advantages and disadvantages of these kind of synthesis methods are discussed as well. Furthermore, the opportunities and challenges of nano‐Si are also discussed.
Precursor‐Transformation Strategy Preparation of CuPx Nanodots–Decorated CoP3 Nanowires Hybrid Catalysts for Boosting pH‐Universal Electrocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Cheng Yu , Pei Yu , Zhuang Peiyuan , Chu Hang , Cao Yudong , Smith Will , Dong Pei , Shen Jianfeng , Ye Mingxin , Ajayan Pulickel M.
Published: October 2019

The development of earth‐abundant, low cost, and versatile electrocatalysts for producing hydrogen from water electrolysis is still challenging. Herein, based on high hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) activity of transition metal phosphides, a CoP3 nanowire decorated with copper phosphides (denoted as CuPx) nanodots structures synthesized through a simple and easily scalable precursor‐transformation strategy is reported as a highly efficient HER catalyst. By decorating with CuPx nanodots, the optimized CoP3 nanowires electrode exhibits excellent catalytic activity and long‐term durability for HER in alkaline conditions, achieving a low overpotential of 49.5 mV at a geometrical catalytic current density of 10 mA cm−2 with a small Tafel slope of 58.0 mV dec−1, while also performing quite well in neutral and acidic media. Moreover, its overall performance exceeds most of the reported state‐of‐the‐art catalysts, especially under high current density of 100 mA cm−2, demonstrating its potential as a promising versatile pH universal electrocatalyst for efficient water electrolysis. These results indicate that the incorporation of earth‐abundant stable element copper can significantly enhance catalytic activity, which widens the application range of copper and provides a new path for design and selection of HER catalysts.
Lornoxicam quantification in rabbit plasma by reverse phase HPLC: Optimization and application to pharmacokinetic study
Authors: Salunkhe Nitin , Jadhav Namdeo , Bhinge Somnath
Published: October 2019

The aim of present study was to develop a simple, rapid, selective, sensitive and robust reverse phase high‐performance liquid chromatography method for quantification of Lornoxicam and internal standard meloxicam in rabbit plasma at the wavelength of 370 nm. Protein was precipitated from rabbit plasma sample by addition of acetonitrile as a vehicle. An isocratic elution of samples was performed on capcell pak C8 column with the mobile phase consisting 5 mM phosphate buffer (pH 4.8): methanol (40:60 v/v) delivered at flow rate 1.0 mL min−1. The method was quantitatively evaluated in terms of System suitability, linearity, precision, recovery, selectivity, robustness and stability studies. The validated reverse phase high‐performance liquid chromatography method was successfully applied for the bioavailability studies of Lornoxicam. The pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated for all the investigated drugs in rabbit plasma after single‐dose administrations of pure drug and formulation of Lornoxicam. Thus, developed method is simple, convenient and suitable for the analysis of Lornoxicam in bulk drug and pharmaceutical formulations.
Prevalence and characterization of virulence genes in Escherichia coli isolated from piglets suffering post‐weaning diarrhoea in Shandong Province, China
Authors: Li Song , Wang Lei , Zhou Yufa , Miao Zengmin
Published: October 2019

The present study was performed to investigate the prevalence and characteristics of virulence genes in Escherichia coli (E. coli) isolated from piglets suffering post‐weaning diarrhoea (PWD) in Shandong Province, China. The standard bacteriological method was used to isolate and identify E. coli, and then multiplex polymerase chain reaction (mPCR) was performed to determine virulence genes in E. coli. Among the 300 isolates, 166 (55.3％) harboured at least one virulence gene. Among the 166 isolates, 155 (93.4％) contained toxin‐related genes. For enterotoxin genes, EAST1 (58/166, 34.9％) and LT‐I (45/166, 27.1％) were the most common, followed by STa (32/166, 19.3％) and STb (21/166, 12.7％); for pathogenicity island (PAI) genes, irp2 (49/166, 29.5％) was the most dominant, followed by eae (48/166, 28.9％); for Shiga toxigenic E. coli (STEC)‐associated toxin genes, Stx2e and hlyA genes were observed in 19 (19/166, 11.4％) and three strains (3/166, 1.8％) respectively. In addition, of the 166 isolates, 95 (95/166, 57.2％) contained adhesin genes, and AIDA‐I (33/166, 19.9％) was the most common, followed by paa (27/166, 16.3％), F5 (K99) (20/166, 12.0％), F18 (15/166, 9.0％) and F41 (12/166, 7.2％). In summary, these findings demonstrated the prevalence and characteristics of virulence factors in E. coli isolates from piglets with PWD in Shandong Province of China, and the data may be useful for establishing preventive measures for post‐weaning piglet diarrhoea.
3-Amidinophenylalanine-derived matriptase inhibitors can modulate hepcidin production in vitro
Authors: Pászti-Gere Erzsébet , Szombath Gergely , Gütschow Michael , Steinmetzer Torsten , Székács András
Published: October 2019

Matriptase-2 (MT-2) is a type II transmembrane serine protease and predominantly attached to the surface of hepatocytes. MT-2 decreases the production of hepcidin, a key regulator of iron homeostasis. In this study, the effects of four 3-amidinophenylalanine-derived combined matriptase-1/matriptase-2 (MT-1/2) inhibitors (MI-432, MI-441, MI-460, and MI-461) on hepcidin production were investigated in hepatocyte mono- and hepatocyte-Kupffer cell co-cultures. In MI-461-treated cell cultures, the extracellular hydrogen peroxide contents and the interleukin-6 and -8 (IL-6 and IL-8) levels were determined and compared to controls. Hepcidin overproduction was observed in hepatocytes upon treatment with MI-432, MI-441 and MI-461 at 50 μM. In contrast, extracellular hydrogen peroxide levels were not elevated significantly after matriptase inhibition with MI-461. Furthermore, MI-461 did not induce increases in IL-6 and IL-8 levels in these hepatic models. A model of the binding mode of inhibitor MI-461 in complex with MT-2 revealed numerous polar contacts contributing to the nanomolar potency of this compound. Based on the in vitro data on hepcidin regulation, treatment with MI-461 might be valuable in pathological states of iron metabolism without causing excessive oxidative stress.
Dreijahresergebnisse der deutschlandweiten Umfrage zu Augenverletzungen durch Feuerwerkskörper
Authors:   Feuerwerks-Verletzungen-Studiengruppe, Gabel-Pfisterer A. , Böhringer D. , Agostini H.
Published: October 2019

Hintergrund

Weltweit entstehen an Feiertagen schwere Augenverletzungen durch Feuerwerkskörper. Die Datenlage für Deutschland ist bislang unklar.

Fragestellung

Wie häufig entstehen solche Verletzungen in Deutschland, wer ist gefährdet, wie schwer sind die Verletzungen, welche Therapien erfordern sie, und wie häufig treten Begleitverletzungen auf?

Methode

Deutschlandweite standardisierte Online-Umfrage an bettenführenden, notdienstleistenden Augenkliniken und Auswertung der Ergebnisse über 3 Jahre.

Ergebnisse

Die Beteiligung konnte von 2016 bis 2019 von 41 auf 51 Augenkliniken gesteigert werden. Von 1356 Patienten war mehr als ein Drittel (33–39 %) minderjährig, rund 60 % 25 Jahre oder jünger und rund 60 % Bystander. Ein Viertel der Verletzungen war schwer und erforderte eine stationäre Therapie. Begleitverletzungen am Partnerauge, an Händen und Gesicht waren bei Minderjährigen häufiger als bei Erwachsenen. Bulbusrupturen wurden bei 10 Kindern und 38 Erwachsenen dokumentiert.

Schlussfolgerungen

Vor allem Minderjährige und Zuschauer müssen besser geschützt werden.
Classification and examples of next generation machine elements
Authors: Vorwerk-Handing G. , Gwosch T. , Schork S. , Kirchner E. , Matthiesen S.
Published: October 2019

In order to fully exploit the potential of the rapidly progressing digitalisation of technical systems, it is necessary to provide reliable and significant process and condition related data. In this context, solutions are especially aspired to allow a simple integration into the surrounding system and to influence it as little as possible. The main challenges regarding the measurement of process and condition data in the operation and control of technical systems as well as in test environments are identified and presented at the beginning of this article. A promising approach to meet the resulting requirements is the integration of sensory functions into simple standardised machine elements. In order to facilitate the discussion and interdisciplinary development of machine elements with sensory functions, an extension of the existing classification of mechatronic machine elements is introduced and illustrated with examples. The introduced classification takes into account the classification according to Stücheli and Meboldt and is based on a comparison of conventional and mechatronic machine elements on a functional level with regard to the function structure. As a result, the three classessensor carrying machine elements,sensor integrating machine elementsandsensory utilizable machine elementsare introduced and subsequently discussed in more detail on the basis of examples. Finally, an outlook is given on the main research areas with regard to the development of mechatronic machine elements. Key aspects include working principles and effects for application in mechatronic machine elements, system analysis with regard to load conditions, power supply of sensor and data processor in the environment of the machine element as well as data processing and signal transmission under typical environmental conditions of mechanical engineering.
Assessment of in situ nest decay rate for chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes ellioti Matschie, 1914) in Mbam-Djerem National Park, Cameroon: implications for long-term monitoring
Authors: Kamgang Serge Alexis , Carme Tuneu Corral , Bobo Kadiri Serge , Abwe Ekwoge Enang , Gonder Mary Katherine , Sinsin Brice
Published: October 2019

Accurate assessment of great ape populations is a prerequisite for conservation planning. Indirect survey methods using nest and dung, and a set of conversion parameters related to nest decay rates, are increasingly used. Most surveys use the standing crop nest count (SCNC) method, whereby nests are counted along transects and the estimated nest density is converted into chimpanzee density using an often non-local nest decay rate. The use of non-local decay rate is thought to introduce substantial bias to ape population estimates given that nest decay rates vary with location, season, rainfall, nest shape, and tree species used. SCNC method has previously been applied in Mbam-Djerem National Park (MDNP) in Cameroon, for chimpanzee surveys using a non-local nest decay rate. This current study aimed to measure a local nest decay rate for MDNP and implications for chimpanzee population estimates in the MDNP. The mean nest decay rate estimated using a logistic regression analysis was 127 [95% CI (100–160)] days. Moreover, the results suggested that rainfall strongly influenced the nest decay rate over the early stage of the lifetime of the nests. The study confirms that estimates of chimpanzee density and abundance using non-local decay rates should be treated with caution. Our research emphasized the importance of using local nest decay rates and other survey methods which do not depend on decay rates to obtain more accurate estimates of chimpanzee densities in order to inform conservation strategies of these great apes in MDNP.
Analytical and numerical seismic assessment of heritage masonry towers
Authors: Torelli Giacomo , D’Ayala Dina , Betti Michele , Bartoli Gianni
Published: October 2019

The new Italian building code, published in 2018 [MIT in NTC 2018: D.M. del Ministero delle Infrastrutture e dei trasporti del 17/01/2018. Aggiornamento delle Norme Tecniche per le Costruzioni (in Italian), 2018], explicitly refers to the Italian “Guidelines for the assessment and mitigation of the seismic risk of the cultural heritage” [PCM in DPCM 2011: Direttiva del Presidente del Consiglio dei Ministri per valutazione e riduzione del rischio sismico del patrimonio culturale con riferimento alle norme tecniche per le costruzioni, G.U. n. 47 (in Italian), 2011] as a reliable source of guidance that can be employed for the vulnerability assessment of heritage buildings under seismic loads. According to these guidelines, three evaluation levels are introduced to analyse and assess the seismic capacity of historic masonry structures, namely: (1) simplified global static analyses; (2) kinematic analyses based on local collapse mechanisms, (3) detailed global analyses. Because of the complexity and the large variety of existing masonry typologies, which makes it particularly problematic to adopt a unique procedure for all existing structures, the guidelines provide different simplified analysis approaches for different structural configurations, e.g. churches, palaces, towers. Among the existing typologies of masonry structures there considered, this work aims to deepen validity, effectiveness and scope of application of the Italian guidelines with respect to heritage masonry towers. The three evaluation levels proposed by the guidelines are here compared by discussing the seismic risk assessment of a representative masonry tower: the Cugnanesi tower located in San Gimignano (Italy). The results show that global failure modes due to local stress concentrations cannot be identified if only simplified static and kinematic analyses are performed. Detailed global analyses are in fact generally needed for a reliable prediction of the seismic performance of such structures.
Development and Evaluation of a Swedish Short Version of the Questionnaire About the Process of Recovery (QPR)
Authors: Mona Eklund , Sandra Neil , Elisabeth Argentzell
Published: October 2019

The aim was to develop a short version of the Swedish Process of Recovery Questionnaire (QPR-Swe) for use with people with severe mental illness and to investigate its internal consistency, construct validity, known-groups validity and any floor or ceiling effects. Two independent samples were used, the first (N = 226) to develop the short version and the second (N = 266) to test its psychometric properties. A seven-item version was developed by selecting items based on item-total correlations. The QPR-Swe-7 showed good internal consistency reliability (α = 0.82). It showed moderate correlations with indicators of convergent validity (self-rated health, self-mastery and quality of life) and weak with those selected to test discriminant validity (psychiatric symptoms and level of functioning). QPR-Swe-7 differentiated between people receiving two different levels of housing support. No floor or ceiling effects were found. The QPR-Swe-7 had appropriate psychometric properties for use with people with a variety of mental disorders when a brief scale is warranted.
Self-organization of silver nanoparticles during synthesis of Ag–Au nanoalloy by UV irradiation method
Authors: Łukowiec Dariusz , Radoń Adrian
Published: October 2019

Formation of Ag–Au nanoalloy and self-organization of Ag nanoparticles into nanostructured wires under UV irradiation were reported in this work. This phenomenon was observed only in the presence of chloroauric acid. On the basis of the analysis of transmission electron microscope images and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, formation mechanism of nanostructured wires as well as of Ag–Au nanoalloy were proposed. The role of UV illumination and the presence of chloride ions were discussed. The UV–Vis spectra confirm that the synthesized material has one absorption band at 530 nm, which was related to the presence of Ag–Au nanoalloy. Moreover, the Ag–AgCl nanocomposite, in which Ag NPs are located on the edges of AgCl cubes, was successfully synthesized by the modified method.
Urinary metabolomics reveals kynurenine pathway perturbation in newborns with transposition of great arteries after surgical repair
Authors: Simonato Manuela , Fochi Igor , Vedovelli Luca , Giambelluca Sonia , Carollo Cristiana , Padalino Massimo , Carnielli Virgilio P. , Cogo Paola
Published: October 2019

Introduction

Transposition of the great arteries (TGA) is a cyanotic congenital heart defect that requires surgical correction, with the use of cardiopulmonary-bypass (CPB), usually within 3 weeks of life. The use of CPB in open heart surgery results in brain hypoperfusion and in a powerful systemic inflammatory response and oxidative stress.

Objective

We aimed to develop a novel untargeted metabolomics approach to detect early postoperative changes in metabolic profile following neonatal cardiac surgery.

Methods

We studied 14 TGA newborns with intact ventricular septum undergoing arterial switch operation with the use of CPB. Urine samples were collected preoperatively and at the end of the surgery and were analyzed using an untargeted metabolomics approach based on UHPLC-high resolution mass spectrometry.

Results

Since post surgery metabolic spectra were heavily contaminated by metabolites derived from administered drugs, we constructed a list of drugs used during surgery and their related metabolites retrieved from urine samples. This library was applied to our samples and 1255 drugs and drug metabolites were excluded from the analysis. Afterward, we detected over 39,000 unique compounds and 371 putatively annotated metabolites were different between pre and post-surgery samples. Among these metabolites, 13 were correctly annotated or identified. Metabolites linked to kynurenine pathway of tryptophan degradation displayed the highest fold change.

Conclusions

This is the first report on metabolic response to cardiac surgery in TGA newborns. We developed an experimental design that allowed the identification of perturbed metabolic pathways and potential biomarkers of brain damage, limiting drugs interference in the analysis.
Energy Dissipation Measurement in Improved Spatial Resolution Under Fatigue Loading
Authors: Akai A. , Shiozawa D. , Yamada T. , Sakagami T.
Published: October 2019

Recently, a technique for rapidly determining a material’s fatigue limit by measuring energy dissipation using infrared thermography has received increasing interest. Measuring the energy dissipation of a material under fatigue loading allows the rapid determination of a stress level that empirically coincides with its fatigue limit. To clarify the physical implications of the rapid fatigue limit determination, the relationship between energy dissipation and fatigue damage initiation process was investigated. To discuss the fatigue damage initiation process at grain size scale, we performed high-spatial-resolution dissipated energy measurements on type 316L austenitic stainless steel, and observed the slip bands on the same side of the specimen. The preprocessing of dissipated energy measurement such as motion compensation and a smoothing filter was applied. It was found that the distribution of dissipated energy obtained by improved spatial resolution measurement pinpointed the location of fatigue crack initiation. Owing to the positive correlation between the magnitude of dissipated energy and number of slip bands, it was suggested that the dissipated energy was associated with the behavior of slip bands, with regions of high dissipated energy predicting the location of fatigue crack initiation.
The Japanese Breast Cancer Society Clinical Practice Guideline for radiation treatment of breast cancer, 2018 edition
Authors: Yamauchi Chikako , Yoshimura Michio , Sekiguchi Kenji , Hamamoto Yasushi , Nakajima Naomi , Sanuki Naoko , Ogo Etsuyo , Oguchi Masahiko , Saji Shigehira , Iwata Hiroji
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The Japanese Breast Cancer Society (JBCS) Clinical Practice Guideline was revised in 2018. This article describes the revise points in the section on radiation therapy (RT).

Methods and materials

The JBCS formed task force to update the JBCS Clinical Practice Guideline 2015 edition. Background questions (BQs) deal with standard treatments of breast cancer in clinical practice. Clinical questions (CQs) highlight the important treatments in which controversy remains. The task force for RT section addressed the 10 BQs, the 10 CQs, and the 4 Future reseach questions (FQs). For each CQ, systematic literature reviews and meta-analyses were conducted, and recommendations, strength of recommendation and strength of evidence were determined according to the protocol in Morizane et al. (Minds Handbook for Clinical Practice Guideline Development, 2014).

Results

The recommendations, the strength of recommendation and the strength of evidence were determined based on the systematic literature reviews and the meta-analyses for each CQ.

Conclusion

The JBCS updated the Clinical Practice Guideline. RT represents a significant portion of the breast cancer treatment, and these recommendations regarding RT will be useful in individualized, shared decision making between physicians and patients.
Differential diagnosis of the cranial perforations on the Early Iron Age along the Ancient Silk Road in Xinjiang, China
Authors: Zhan Xiaoya , Mu Ai-Jia , Chen Liang , Zhang Qun , Wu Yong , Hu Wanglin , Yeh Hui-Yuan
Published: October 2019

Bioarcheologists and pathologists favor trauma on the skeletons since it could reflect the human activities and interpersonal relationship in the past. In this paper, we present the pattern of two cranial perforations found on an adult male buried in the Xiaoshankou Cemetery, which was part of the Silk Road region, dating back to the early Iron Age. The specimen of interest presents two perforations on his skull, with one perforation located on the anterior part of the left parietal bone, while the other is on the occipital bone near to the lambda. The morphology of the perforations indicates perimortem traumatic lesions, probably produced by a sharp force weapon, possibly arrowhead, through one shot. The interpretation of the penetrating lesions on this cranium offers new perspectives when diagnosing perforations on the skulls in the Xinjiang region. Meanwhile, this study adds literature to the patterns of violence in Xinjiang region as well.
Genetics without genes? The centrality of genetic markers in livestock genetics and genomics
Authors: Lowe James W. E. , Bruce Ann
Published: October 2019

In this paper, rather than focusing on genes as an organising concept around which historical considerations of theory and practice in genetics are elucidated, we place genetic markers at the heart of our analysis. This reflects their central role in the subject of our account, livestock genetics concerning the domesticated pig,Sus scrofa. We define a genetic marker as a (usually material) element existing in different forms in the genome, that can be identified and mapped using a variety (and often combination) of quantitative, classical and molecular genetic techniques. The conjugation of pig genome researchers around the common object of the marker from the early-1990s allowed the distinctive theories and approaches of quantitative and molecular genetics concerning the size and distribution of gene effects to align (but never fully integrate) in projects to populate genome maps. Critical to this was the nature of markers as ontologically inert, internally heterogeneous and relational. Though genes as an organising and categorising principle remained important, the particular concatenation of limitations, opportunities, and intended research goals of the pig genetics community, meant that a progressively stronger focus on the identification and mapping of markers rather than genes per se became a hallmark of the community. We therefore detail a different way of doing genetics to more gene-centred accounts. By doing so, we reveal the presence of practices, concepts and communities that would otherwise be hidden.
The Significance of Experiencing Clinical Responsibilities for Specialty Career Choice
Authors: Querido Sophie , De Rond Marlies , Wigersma Lode , van den Broek Sjoukje , ten Cate Olle
Published: October 2019

Aim

Medical trainees make career choices in the final year of medical school or after graduation, if they do not continue with residency directly. Most Dutch medical students are trained in vertically integrated (VI) curricula, with early clinical experience and a gradual increase in clinical responsibilities. Students in such curricula have been reported to make career choices at an earlier stage than graduates from more traditionally designed curricula. Many Dutch graduates build further clinical experience after graduation as physicians-not-in-training (PNITs) before beginning residency. We explored how students make career choices and whether pre-residency clinical responsibilities influence this choice.

Method

A qualitative study with a phenomenology approach was used. The authors conducted a longitudinal interview study of medical students with two intervals over a 2-year period. The interview questions covered how trainees establish career preferences and which factors affect preference and choice over time.

Results

Experiencing clinical responsibility was a key factor for career preference during all interview rounds. Being a PNIT who makes diagnostic and therapeutic decisions, have their own patients and have significant patient care responsibilities creates opportunities to build an image of a future context of employment. Some participants mentioned that their experience of having full responsibility as a PNIT was pivotal in a career preference change.

Conclusion

Clinical responsibility as a student or a PNIT appears to be important for career preference and choice. The experience of responsibility as a medical doctor forces trainees to reflect on personal needs and to consider which career preference fits best.
Same-sex marriage and the Lutheran Church in Finland: How rapid change in values and norms challenges the church and its decision-making
Authors: Ketola Kimmo , Helander Eila
Published: October 2019

The effect of legislative changes on same-sex unions on people’s attitudes toward homosexuality is a fairly well-researched topic. There is less research on how state legislation on same-sex unions has affected churches’ attitudes and policies on registered partnership and same-sex marriage. In this paper we focus on attitudinal polarisation in the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland (ELCF) in the matter of same-sex marriage and why there is a gap in the attitudinal development of the church and the society. The analysis is based upon six sets of representative surveys among the Finnish population, the employees of the ELCF and the elected officials of the ELCF between the years 2012–2017. Whereas the majorities (55%) among the Finnish population and among the ELCF members (54%) are already favourable to the idea that same-sex couples should have the right to marry in the church, the ELCF has not approved of it. This situation has polarised the ELCF from within. Empirical analysis shows that the reason for the discrepancy between popular opinion and the ELCF stance stems from the fact that ELCF decision makers are older and more religious than the general membership. However, the data also shows that even among the most religious, younger age groups are already more favourable towards the same-sex marriage. Therefore, it is likely that the polarisation will lessen over time as more and more religious people accept same-sex marriage.
Structural, optical and electrical properties of multiferroic BiFe1-xNixO3 ceramic
Authors: Arafat S. S. , Ibrahim S. , Al fannakh Huda
Published: October 2019

BiFe1−xNixO3 (x = 0.7, 0.8 and 0.9) polycrystalline ceramics are synthesized by a solid-state reaction, and their structural, absorption, leakage current and electrical properties are investigated. The X-ray diffraction measurements show that the lattice parameter values increase with increasing the substitution of Ni2+ ions for Fe3+ ions. The optical absorption spectra indicate that the band gap energy increases with increasing Ni2+ ions. Leakage currents are much decreased by about three orders of magnitude with increasing Ni ions. The J-E hysteresis was also investigated. Both real and imaginary dielectric constants are investigated as a function of both frequency and temperature. The room temperature dielectric measurement with a wide frequency range of 1 KHz–1 MHz reveals that the real and imaginary dielectric constants are decreased with increasing frequency of BiFe1−xNixO3 (x = 0.7, 0.8, 0.9) ceramics. The real and imaginary dielectric constants are found to be increased with temperature. The temperature dependence of ε′ and ε″ exhibits an anomaly which shifted to lower temperature with increasing Ni2+. The anomaly indicates the possible existence of spin-glass states with Ni2+ ion substitution in places of Fe3+ ions.
Modeling Canopy Carbon and Water Fluxes Using a Multilayered Model over a Temperate Meadow in Inner Mongolia
Authors: Chen Nina , Wang Anzhi , An Juan , Zhang Yushu , Ji Ruipeng , Jia Qingyu , Zhao Ziqi , Guan Dexin
Published: October 2019

To incorporate canopy vertical structure in a process-based model over a temperate meadow, a multilayered model estimated canopy carbon flux (Fc) and water flux (LE) was applied by comparing with eddy covariance measurements in Inner Mongolia, China. Simulations of diurnal, seasonal CO2 and H2O fluxes and model sensitivity to parameters and variables were analyzed. The results showed that the model underestimated Fc and LE by about 0.6% and 5.0%, respectively. It was able to simulate the diurnal and seasonal variation of Fc and LE and performed well during the day and in the growing season, but poorly at night and early in the growing season. Fc was more sensitive to the leaf nitrogen content distribution coefficient and maximum catalytic activity of Rubisco, whereas LE showed greater sensitivity to the stomatal conductance parameter a1, empirical coefficient of stomatal response to saturated vapor pressure difference Vpds0, and minimum stomatal conductance of CO2gsc0. The response of Fc to environmental factors was ranked as air CO2 concentration (Ca) > air temperature (Ta) > photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) > soil water content (θsm) > vapor pressure deficit (VPD) > wind speed (u0). The response of LE to environmental factors was ranked as Ta > VPD > θsm> PAR> Ca> u0. The response of LE to vegetation characteristic parameters was greater than that of Fc.
Management of Femoral Neck Stress Fracture in an Athlete Using Clodronic Acid: a Clinical Case Report
Authors: Vitali Matteo , Pironti Pierluigi , Drossinos Andreas , Pesce Elisa , Salini Vincenzo
Published: October 2019

Stress fractures are common injuries caused by repetitive micro-traumas of the bone. Nowadays, they are widespread amongst the athletes and their treatment is mostly based on the limitation of physical activity, the application of ice, and the administration of analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs. We present a case of a 26-year-old woman who reported a mono-cortical stress fracture in the anatomical neck portion of the right femur treated with Clody® 200 mg/4 ml. The patient is an amateur runner who complained a progressive pain and functional limitation of the hip joint. No history of recent trauma was present as well as X-rays evidence of fractures. A subsequent magnetic resonance imaging study showed the presence of a mono-cortical stress fracture in the anatomical neck portion of the right femur. The patient was treated with 1 vial of Clody® 200 mg/4 ml a day for 7 days, following 1 vial every 15 days for 2 months without any further therapy as well as physical activity limitation, showing a faster clinical and radiological recovery compared with the most of therapies described in the literature. Concerning our positive experience, the purpose of this study is to give a starting point for further research in order to enlarge the number of studies about that specific approach.
Distinct tau PET patterns in atrophy‐defined subtypes of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Ossenkoppele Rik , Lyoo Chul Hyoung , Sudre Carole H. , van Westen Danielle , Cho Hanna , Ryu Young Hoon , Choi Jae Yong , Smith Ruben , Strandberg Olof , Palmqvist Sebastian , Westman Eric , Tsai Richard , Kramer Joel , Boxer Adam L. , Gorno‐Tempini Maria L. , La Joie Renaud , Miller Bruce L. , Rabinovici Gil D. , Hansson Oskar
Published: October 2019

Introduction

Differential patterns of brain atrophy on structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed four reproducible subtypes of Alzheimer's disease (AD): (1) “typical”, (2) “limbic‐predominant”, (3) “hippocampal‐sparing”, and (4) “mild atrophy”. We examined the neurobiological characteristics and clinical progression of these atrophy‐defined subtypes.

Methods

The four subtypes were replicated using a clustering method on MRI data in 260 amyloid‐β‐positive patients with mild cognitive impairment or AD dementia, and we subsequently tested whether the subtypes differed on [18F]flortaucipir (tau) positron emission tomography, white matter hyperintensity burden, and rate of global cognitive decline.

Results

Voxel‐wise and region‐of‐interest analyses revealed the greatest neocortical tau load in hippocampal‐sparing (frontoparietal‐predominant) and typical (temporal‐predominant) patients, while limbic‐predominant patients showed particularly high entorhinal tau. Typical patients with AD had the most pronounced white matter hyperintensity load, and hippocampal‐sparing patients showed the most rapid global cognitive decline.

Discussion

Our data suggest that structural MRI can be used to identify biologically and clinically meaningful subtypes of AD.
The TOMMORROW study: Design of an Alzheimer's disease delay‐of‐onset clinical trial
Authors: Burns Daniel K. , Chiang Carl , Welsh‐Bohmer Kathleen A. , Brannan Stephen K. , Culp Meredith , O'Neil Janet , Runyan Grant , Harrigan Patrick , Plassman Brenda L. , Lutz Michael , Lai Eric , Haneline Stephen , Yarnall David , Yarbrough Deborah , Metz Craig , Ponduru Sridevi , Sundseth Scott , Saunders Ann M. ,   TOMMORROW Study Investigators
Published: October 2019

Introduction

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a continuum with neuropathologies manifesting years before clinical symptoms; thus, AD research is attempting to identify more disease‐modifying approaches to test treatments administered before full disease expression. Designing such trials in cognitively normal elderly individuals poses unique challenges.

Methods

The TOMMORROW study was a phase 3 double‐blind, parallel‐group study designed to support qualification of a novel genetic biomarker risk assignment algorithm (BRAA) and to assess efficacy and safety of low‐dose pioglitazone to delay onset of mild cognitive impairment due to AD. Eligible participants were stratified based on the BRAA (using TOMM40 rs 10524523 genotype, Apolipoprotein E genotype, and age), with high‐risk individuals receiving low‐dose pioglitazone or placebo and low‐risk individuals receiving placebo. The primary endpoint was time to the event of mild cognitive impairment due to AD. The primary objectives were to compare the primary endpoint between high‐ and low‐risk placebo groups (for BRAA qualification) and between high‐risk pioglitazone and high‐risk placebo groups (for pioglitazone efficacy). Approximately 300 individuals were also asked to participate in a volumetric magnetic resonance imaging substudy at selected sites.

Results

The focus of this paper is on the design of the study; study results will be presented in a separate paper.

Discussion

The design of the TOMMORROW study addressed many key challenges to conducting a dual‐objective phase 3 pivotal AD clinical trial in presymptomatic individuals. Experiences from planning and executing the TOMMORROW study may benefit future AD prevention/delay‐of‐onset trials.
Effects of iconicity in lexical decision
Authors: SIDHU DAVID M. , VIGLIOCCO GABRIELLA , PEXMAN PENNY M.
Published: October 2019

abstract

In contrast to arbitrariness, a recent perspective is that words contain both arbitrary and iconic aspects. We investigated iconicity in word recognition, and the possibility that iconic words have special links between phonological and semantic features that may facilitate their processing. In Experiment 1, participants completed a lexical decision task (“Is this letter string a word?”) including words varying in their iconicity. Notably, we manipulated stimulus presentation conditions such that the items were visually degraded for half of the participants; this manipulation has been shown to increase reliance on phonology. Responses to words higher in iconicity were faster and more accurate, but this did not interact with condition. In Experiment 2 we explicitly directed participants’ attention to phonology by using a phonological lexical decision task (“Does this letter string sound like a word?”). Responses to words that were higher in iconicity were once again faster. These results demonstrate facilitatory effects of iconicity in lexical processing, thus showing that the benefits of iconic mappings extend beyond those reported for language learning and those argued for language evolution.
Oral Health and Diet in Populations of Central Argentina during the Late Holocene: Bioarchaeological and Isotopic Evidence
Authors: Fabra Mariana , González Claudina V.
Published: October 2019

We studied the temporal and spatial variation of diet and oral health of human populations that inhabited the central region of Argentina during the Late Holocene (4000–300 BP) by evaluating isotopic data (δ13Ccol, δ15N), physiological stress indicators (tooth wear), and infectious dental diseases (caries). The sample of 49 individuals was recovered from archaeological sites located in the province of Córdoba, dated by AMS on collagen to a range of 4058 ± 89 years BP to 370 ± 1514C years BP. After calculating the prevalence of caries and the average dental wear, we compared these values based on regional origin (central highlands and eastern lowlands), temporal assignation (early Late Holocene, late Late Holocene), and sex (female and male). We found clear regional and temporal differentiation, which we interpret as resulting from differential use of plant resources among the regions and a slight deterioration in oral health in the Late Holocene. Stable isotope analysis indicates food consumption of C3and C4resources, although the observed temporal variations in the isotopic values may indicate an introduction of C4resources in the later Late Holocene, mainly in the mountainous region.
Simultaneous supplementation with iron and folic acid can affect Slc11a2 and Slc46a1 transcription and metabolite concentrations in rats
Authors: Radziejewska A. , Suliburska J. , Kołodziejski P. , Chmurzynska A.
Published: October 2019

The present study aimed at analysing how dietary folic acid (FA) and Fe deficiency, followed by supplementation with these nutrients, affects the expression of folate and Fe transporters in the duodenum, as well as FA and Fe status. After a deficiency period, Wistar rats were randomised to a group fed with a diet deficient in FA and supplemented with Fe (DFE), a diet deficient in Fe and supplemented with FA, a diet supplemented with Fe and FA (FEFOL), a diet deficient in Fe and FA (D) or a control diet (C). Tissue collection was performed after 2, 10 or 21 d of these diets. Group D had higher Slc11a2 mRNA levels than the DFE group at every time point and there were differences in mRNA levels of Slc46a1 between the DFE and the FEFOL groups at the third time point, but we observed no differences in protein levels between the groups. The DFE and D groups not only had lower serum folate concentrations at every time point but also had the highest homocysteine concentrations. Total Fe binding capacity concentrations were the lowest in the DFE group at the first time point and in the DFE and the FEFOL groups at the final time point. Simultaneous supplementation with FA and Fe resulted in significantly higher Hb concentrations than did supplementation with these nutrients alone. Our findings indicate that dietary FA and Fe deficiency, and subsequent supplementation with these nutrients, affects transcription but not the protein levels of FA and Fe transporters in the duodenum.
The reality of at risk mental state services: a response to recent criticisms
Authors: Yung Alison R. , Wood Stephen J. , Malla Ashok , Nelson Barnaby , McGorry Patrick , Shah Jai
Published: October 2019

Background

In the 1990s criteria were developed to detect individuals at high and imminent risk of developing a psychotic disorder. These are known as the at risk mental state, ultra high risk or clinical high risk criteria. Individuals meeting these criteria are symptomatic and help-seeking. Services for such individuals are now found worldwide. Recently Psychological Medicine published two articles that criticise these services and suggest that they should be dismantled or restructured. One paper also provides recommendations on how ARMS services should be operate.

Methods

In this paper we draw on the existing literature in the field and present the perspective of some ARMS clinicians and researchers.

Results

Many of the critics' arguments are refuted. Most of the recommendations included in the Moritz et al. paper are already occurring.

Conclusions

ARMS services provide management of current problems, treatment to reduce risk of onset of psychotic disorder and monitoring of mental state, including attenuated psychotic symptoms. These symptoms are associated with a range of poor outcomes. It is important to assess them and track their trajectory over time. A new approach to detection of ARMS individuals can be considered that harnesses broad youth mental health services, such as headspace in Australia, Jigsaw in Ireland and ACCESS Open Minds in Canada. Attention should also be paid to the physical health of ARMS individuals. Far from needing to be dismantled we feel that the ARMS approach has much to offer to improve the health of young people.
Early adversity and children's regulatory deficits: Does postadoption parenting facilitate recovery in postinstitutionalized children?
Authors: Koss Kalsea J. , Lawler Jamie M. , Gunnar Megan R.
Published: October 2019

Children reared in orphanages typically experience the lack of stable, reliable caregivers and are at increased risk for deficits in regulatory abilities including difficulties in inhibitory control, attention, and emotion regulation. Although adoption results in a radical shift in caregiving quality, there remains variation in postadoption parenting, yet little research has examined postadoption parenting that may promote recovery in children experiencing early life adversity in the form of institutional care. Participants included 93 postinstitutionalized children adopted between 15 and 36 months of age and 52 nonadopted same-aged peers. Parenting was assessed four times during the first 2 years postadoption (at 2, 8, 16, and 24 months postadoption) and children's regulation was assessed at age 5 (Mage = 61.68 months) and during kindergarten (Mage = 71.55 months). Multiple parenting dimensions including sensitivity/responsiveness, structure/limit setting, and consistency in routines were examined. Both parental sensitivity and structure moderated the effect of preadoption adversity on children's emotion regulation while greater consistency was associated with better inhibitory control and fewer attention problems. Results support the notion that postadoption parenting during toddlerhood and the early preschool years promotes better regulation skills following early adversity.
From Neo-Slavism to Internationalism: Interwar Central Europe and the Search for the Lost Mountains
Authors: Roeder Carolin F.
Published: October 2019

This article highlights the contribution of East Central Europe to interwar internationalism by showing how solutions to regional challenges gave birth to theUnion internationale des associations d'alpinisme(UIAA), a permanent international organisation for mountaineering. The territorial fragmentation caused by the dissolution of the Habsburg Empire required alpine clubs to lobby for the softening of new political borders while simultaneously contributing to state building efforts. Successful experiences with bilateral agreements in the Tatras and re-emerging Neo-Slavist ideas led to the founding of the Association of Slavic Tourist Organization in 1924, which in turn motivated the establishment of the UIAA. The leading figures in this process were alpinists with a distinct internationalist profile who navigated seamlessly between their role as agents of the state and private citizens.
Knowledge and skills attractive for the employers of the organic sector: A survey across Europe
Authors: Briz Teresa , von Fragstein und Niemsdorff Peter , Radicetti Emanuele , Moscetti Roberto , Uusitalo Eeva , Iivonen Sari , Mynttinen Ritva , Moudry Jan , Moudry Jan , Konvalina Petr , Kopecky Marek , Średnicka-Tober Dominika , Kazimierczak Renata , Talgre Liina , Matt Darja , Veromann Eve , Mancinelli Roberto , Rembiałkowska Ewa
Published: October 2019

In all countries, the organic sector of the agricultural industry is increasing, with Europe traditionally leading this trend. A survey of different stakeholders (employers) was carried out in 2015 in seven European countries to evaluate the employment market for the organic agricultural industry in Europe. Results indicate the willingness to employ qualified graduates. From the employers' perspective, the most desirable knowledge skills among the graduates of organic agricultural studies include plant production, food quality and plant protection. Further, the study revealed the work skills most desired by the employers are practical expertise, teamwork and problem-solving, and the most important method of learning is cooperation with enterprises (internships/training) in the organic agricultural sector.