bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of ultraviolet on vitamin D and quality of life in postmenopausal women: a randomized controlled study
Authors: Aleshmawy Mohamed Dina Mahmoud , Okeil Fahima Metwally , Yousef Amel Mohamed , Mustafa Mohammed Hassan , Hamada Hamada Ahmed , Saab Ibtissam M.
Published: September 2019

Introduction

To determine the influence of ultraviolet radiation on vitamin D plasma levels and quality of life in postmenopausal women with vitamin D deficiency.

Methods

In a single-blinded randomized controlled trial design, 30 postmenopausal women were chosen suffering from a progressive, generalized muscle weakness, associated with decrease in physical function and poor quality of life. The subjects were aged 45–65 years and were randomly assigned into group A, treated by ultraviolet radiation in addition to regular aerobic exercises; and group B, receiving solely aerobic exercises. All participants had 3 sessions per week for 3 months. Outcome measures determined before and after the 3 months of intervention were vitamin D level and the results of the short form (SF-36) of a specific quality of life questionnaire.

Results

A significant increase in vitamin D was observed along with an improvement in quality of life in group A compared with group B after the treatment period.

Conclusions

The 12-week program of ultraviolet radiation in addition to regular aerobic exercises yielded more improvement in vitamin D and quality of life than aerobic exercises alone in the management of postmenopausal chronic musculoskeletal disorders.
Sobrecarga do cuidador familiar de crianças com necessidades especiais de saúde
Authors: Rodrigues Daniela Zuccolotto , Ferreira Fernanda Yeza , Okido Aline Cavicchioli
Published: September 2019

O estudo objetivou identificar a sobrecarga física, emocional e social de cuidadores de crianças com necessidades especiais de saúde e analisar os fatores associados. Estudo de delineamento transversal e abordagem quantitativa. Aplicado instrumento de caracterização e Escala de Sobrecarga para Cuidadores Informais - Burden Interview. Utilizado teste Qui-quadrado, Exato de Fisher, Kruskal-Wallis e regressão logística politômica, simples e múltipla. Participaram 100 cuidadores, amaioria (57%) apresentou sobrecarga moderada a severa. Os cuidadores de crianças que demandam cuidados mistos e aqueles que não possuíam crença religiosa apresentaram maior risco para sobrecarga (p=0,005 e 0,035respectivamente). Trata-se de estudo inédito pois, inexistem investigações que mensuram quantitativamente a sobrecarga dos cuidadores de crianças com necessidades especiais de saúde, de um modo geral, não especificando diagnósticos médicos. Conclui-se que, ao reconhecer os fatores associados à sobrecarga, estratégias de cuidado com vistas a amenizar a sobrecarga podem ser implantadas e, consequentemente, qualificando o cuidado ofertado.
Strongyloidiasis in North Queensland: re‐emergence of a forgotten risk group?
Authors: Yiannakou John , Croese John , Ashdown Leslie R , Prociv Paul
Published: September 2019

Objective

To describe the clinical presentation, diagnosis and management of strongy‐loidiasis in northern Queensland, and to identify predisposing factors for this infection.

Design

A five‐year retrospective study of medical records of all cases diagnosed in a regional hospital microbiology laboratory, with follow‐up by interview where possible.

Setting

The Townsville General Hospital.

Patients

A total of 14 cases of strongy‐loidiasis were identified, with patients ranging in age from 7 months to 59 years.

Results

Infected patients included nine Aborigines and two Vietnamese refugees, both high‐risk groups. Of three Caucasians diagnosed, one was a war veteran, but the other two did not have significant travel histories; all three had lived or worked under insanitary conditions. In only one case was strongyloidiasis suspected; in most, it was diagnosed because of diarrhoea or blood eosinophilia which could not be related to the presenting illness. Thiabendazole treatment was effective in most cases.

Conclusion

In northern Australia, strongy‐loidiasis can be acquired locally by Caucasians who live in unhygienic circumstances. It should be suspected in any person with unexplained abdominal pain, diarrhoea, cutaneous symptoms or blood eosinophilia, and the laboratory must be informed of the provisional diagnosis.
Isosporiasis in the Aboriginal population of Queensland
Authors: Prociv Paul , Luke Russell , Quayle Philip
Published: September 2019

Objective

To report on the endemicity of Isospora belli in Queensland.

Design

A 10‐year retrospective survey of data from routine parasitological surveillance of Queensland Aboriginal communities, by microscopic examination of preserved faecal specimens.

Setting

The Aboriginal Health Programme of the Queensland Department of Health and Medical Services.

Population

Children under 15 years of age from all the Aboriginal communities of Queensland.

Results

Oocysts of,. belli were detected in 33 (0.2%) of a total of 17 642 faecal samples examined.

Conclusion

Isosporiasis is endemic in the Queensland Aboriginal population. It is likely to be more common than indicated, because the infection is difficult to diagnose, and the techniques used to identify the organism were not particularly sensitive. It is predicted that isosporiasis will be recognised with increasing frequency as a cause of diarrhoea in Aboriginal and white Australians who develop AIDS.
Prenatal diagnosis and successful intrauterine treatment of a female fetus with 21‐hydroxylase deficiency
Authors: Haan Eric A , Penfold James L , Richards Robert I , Serjeantson Susan W , Rollond A Kenneth , Norman Robert , Antonis Peter
Published: September 2019

Objective

To present the first reported Australian case of prenatal treatment of a female fetus with congenital adrenal hyperplasia resulting from 21‐hydroxylase deficiency.

Clinical features

A couple whose son had congenital adrenal hyperplasia resulting from 21‐hydroxylase deficiency sought prenatal diagnosis and treatment in their next pregnancy.

Intervention

Maternal treatment with dexamethasone was commenced at seven weeks' gestation to suppress androgen production by the fetal adrenal glands and prevent virilisation of an affected female fetus. At ten weeks' gestation chorionic villus sampling demonstrated a female fetus, who was shown subsequently to be affected by means of a linkage method in which probes to HLA genes DQA and DRB were used as markers for the 21‐hydroxylase genes.

Increased

17‐hydroxyprogesterone and androstenedione immunoactivity in amniotic fluid Obtained at 14.5 weeks confirmed the fetus to be affected and demonstrated incomplete suppression of fetal adrenal androgen production. Dexamethasone was continued to term and maintained suppression of the fetal and maternal adrenal glands.

Outcome

The infant was born with normal female genitalia. Growth retardation was present but the relationship between this and the dexamethasone treatment remains uncertain. The mother had excessive weight gain during pregnancy.

Conclusion

Dexamethasone treatment commenced in the first weeks of pregnancy can prevent or reduce virilisation of female fetuses with congenital adrenal hyperplasia resulting from 21‐hydroxylase deficiency.
The Nose‐To‐Brain Transport of Polymeric Nanoparticles Is Mediated by Immune Sentinels and Not by Olfactory Sensory Neurons
Authors: Kumarasamy Murali , Sosnik Alejandro
Published: September 2019

The nose‐to‐brain (N‐to‐B) transport mechanism of nanoparticles through the olfactory epithelium (OE) is not fully understood. Most research utilized nasal epithelial cell models completely deprived of olfactory cells. Aiming to shed light into key cellular pathways, in this work, for the first time, the interaction of polymeric nanoparticles in a 17–483 nm size range and with neutral and negatively and positively charged surfaces with primary olfactory sensory neurons, cortical neurons, and microglia isolated from olfactory bulb (OB), OE, and cortex of newborn rats is investigated. After demonstrating the good cell compatibility of the different nanoparticles, the nanoparticle uptake by confocal laser scanning fluorescence microscopy is monitored. Our findings reveal that neither olfactory nor forebrain neurons internalize nanoparticles. Conversely, it is demonstrated that olfactory and cortical microglia phagocytose the nanoparticles independently of their features. Overall, our findings represent the first unambiguous evidence of the possible involvement of microglia in N‐to‐B nanoparticle transport and the unlikely involvement of neurons. Furthermore, this approach emerges as a completely new experimental tool to screen the biocompatibility, uptake, and transport of nanomaterials by key cellular players of the N‐to‐B pathway in nanosafety and nanotoxicology and nanomedicine.
NaCl Nanoparticles as a Cancer Therapeutic
Authors: Jiang Wen , Yin Lei , Chen Hongmin , Paschall Amy Victoria , Zhang Liuyang , Fu Wenyan , Zhang Weizhong , Todd Trever , Yu Kevin Shengyang , Zhou Shiyi , Zhen Zipeng , Butler Michael , Yao Li , Zhang Feng , Shen Ye , Li Zibo , Yin Amelia , Yin Hang , Wang Xianqiao , Avci Fikri Y. , Yu Xiaozhong , Xie Jin
Published: September 2019

Many inorganic nanoparticles are prepared and their behaviors in living systems are investigated. Yet, common electrolytes such as NaCl are left out of this campaign. The underlying assumption is that electrolyte nanoparticles will quickly dissolve in water and behave similarly as their constituent salts. Herein, this preconception is challenged. The study shows that NaCl nanoparticles (SCNPs) but not salts are highly toxic to cancer cells. This is because SCNPs enter cells through endocytosis, bypassing cell regulations on ion transport. When dissolved inside cancer cells, SCNPs cause a surge of osmolarity and rapid cell lysis. Interestingly, normal cells are much more resistant to the treatment due to their relatively low sodium levels. Unlike conventional chemotherapeutics, SCNPs cause immunogenic cell death or ICD. In vivo studies show that SCNPs not only kill cancer cells, but also boost an anticancer immunity. The discovery opens up a new perspective on nanoparticle‐based therapeutics.
Early spring warming may hasten leaf emergence in Erythronium americanum
Authors: Tessier Jack T.
Published: September 2019

Premise

Climate change is making spring arrive earlier than in the past, causing some species to alter the timing of their spring activities. This study addressed whether Erythronium americanum Ker Gawl. (trout lily), a common spring ephemeral, can emerge earlier if exposed to early spring warming.

Methods

I collected corms of Erythronium americanum in the fall, overwintered them in soil, and exposed them to warming in either mid (early treatment) or late (late treatment) February. The timing of leaf emergence was monitored and compared between treatments.

Results

Leaves exposed to early warming emerged earlier than those in the late treatment. Bud break happened closer to date of exposure to warming in the late treatment than in the early treatment.

Conclusions

Spring ephemerals may be able to produce leaves early in response to early spring warming induced by climate change. Risk of late frost and eventual shading by the canopy may limit the duration of a potentially extended growing season.
Regioselective One‐Pot Synthesis of 3‐Fluoro‐Imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridines from Styrene
Authors: Said Madhukar S. , Mishra Ankita , Pandole Satish , Nayak Rashmi A. , Kumar Pradeep , Gajbhiye Jayant M.
Published: September 2019

A one‐pot synthesis of C‐3 fluorinated imidazopyridines (F‐IMPY) is reported under the additive‐free conditions from commercially available styrene and 1‐fluoropyridinium tetrafluoroborate as a fluorine source. The substrate styrene undergoes keto‐bromination/condensation/fluorination transformation in three sequential steps to furnish F‐IMPY. This one‐pot synthesis method exhibits broad substrate scope and good functional group tolerance with a good yield (up to 82%).
Characterization of inflammation and insulin resistance in high‐fat diet‐induced male C57BL/6J mouse model of obesity
Authors: Avtanski Dimiter , Pavlov Valentin A. , Tracey Kevin J. , Poretsky Leonid
Published: September 2019

Background

Animal models of diet‐induced obesity (DIO) are commonly used in medical research for mimicking human diseases. There is no universal animal model, and careful evaluation of variety of factors needs to be considered when designing new experiments. Here, we investigated the effect of 9 weeks high‐fat diet (HFD) intervention, providing 60% energy from fat, on parameters of inflammation and insulin resistance in male C57BL/6J mice.

Methods

Six weeks old mice were initiated on regular diet (RD) or HFD providing 60 kcal energy from fat for 9 weeks. Fasting blood glucose levels were measured by glucometer, and fasting plasma levels of insulin and proinflammatory cytokines by Luminex assay. Insulin sensitivity was evaluated by using QUICKI and HOMA2 indexes.

Results

HFD mice showed ~ 40% higher body weight and ~ 20% larger abdominal circumference, due to an increase in the white adipose tissue mass. Liver examination revealed increased size and higher hepatic lipid accumulation in livers from HFD mice compared to their RD counterparts. Animals from the HFD group were characterized with significantly higher presence of crown‐like structures (CLS) in WAT and higher plasma levels of proinflammatory cytokines (TNF‐α, IL‐6, leptin, MCP‐1, PAI‐1, and resistin). HFD‐fed mice also demonstrated impaired insulin sensitivity (lower QUICKI, higher HOMA‐insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR), and lower HOMA‐percent sensitivity (HOMA‐%S)) index values.

Conclusion

Male C57BL/6J mice on 9 weeks HFD providing 60 kcal energy from fat display impaired insulin sensitivity and chronic inflammation, thus making this DIO mouse model appropriate for studies of early stages of obesity‐related pathology.
Variation of Aluminium Distribution in Small‐Sized ZSM‐5 Crystals during Desilication
Authors: Li Teng , Roy Kanak , Krumeich Frank , Artiglia Luca , Huthwelker Thomas , van Bokhoven Jeroen A.
Published: September 2019

Hollow ZSM‐5 zeolites of size below one micrometer can be produced by desilication of crystals with aluminium zoning. The parent crystals have a core–shell structure: the core part has nearly no aluminium, whereas the aluminium content in the shell increases when extending to exterior surface. Transmission electron microscopy confirmed the preservation of the crystalline shell after base leaching, but could not identify its subtle change. An increase of the Si/Al ratio of the surface was detected upon leaching the parent material to form the hollow zeolite by using ambient pressure X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and infrared spectroscopy of substituted alkylpyridines. 27Al MAS NMR showed that base leaching results in a reduced percentage of distorted tetrahedrally coordinated aluminium. The reprecipitation of dissolved species occurs and tetrahedrally coordinated tin atoms can thus be introduced to the shell framework. Overall, the formation of hollow ZSM‐5 zeolites by desilication involves not only the removal of silicon‐rich core, but also a reduced percentage of exterior aluminium‐related acid sites, which should be considered while using hollow zeolites in acid‐catalyzed reactions.
Visible‐Light‐Mediated Aerobic Tandem Dehydrogenative Povarov/Aromatization Reaction: Synthesis of Isocryptolepines
Authors: Schendera Eva , Unkel Lisa‐Natascha , Huyen Quyen Phung Phan , Salkewitz Gwen , Hoffmann Frank , Villinger Alexander , Brasholz Malte
Published: September 2019

A metal‐free, photoinduced aerobic tandem amine dehydrogenation/Povarov cyclization/aromatization reaction between N‐aryl glycine esters and indoles leads to tetracyclic 11H‐indolo[3,2‐c]quinolines under mild conditions and with high yields. The reaction can be performed by using molecular iodine along with visible light, or by combining an organic photoredox catalyst with a halide anion. Mechanistic studies reveal that product formation occurs through a combination of radical‐mediated oxidation steps with an iminium ion or N‐haloiminium ion [4+2]‐cycloaddition, and the N‐heterocyclic products constitute new analogues of the antiplasmodial natural alkaloid isocryptolepine.
Prostate cancer in young men: An emerging young adult and older adolescent challenge
Authors: Bleyer Archie , Spreafico Filippo , Barr Ronald
Published: September 2019

Background

Recent observations suggest that prostate cancer is an increasing disease among older adolescents and young adults.

Methods

Incidence, mortality, and survival data were obtained from the US National Cancer Institute Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results program and the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation Global Burden of Disease database.

Results

Worldwide, the incidence of prostate cancer has increased in all groups between ages 15 and 40 years and increased globally at a steady rate averaging 2% per year since 1990 (P < .01). In the United States, this age group was >6 times more likely than older men to have distant disease at diagnosis. Stage for stage, their survival rate improved less than in older men. Whereas the overall 5‐year relative survival rate in the United States for men diagnosed between ages 40 and 80 years was between 95% and 100%, it was 30% in those aged 15 to 24 years, 50% in those aged 20 to 29 years, and 80% in those aged 25 to 34 years.

Conclusions

Prostate cancer in older adolescent and young adult men has increased in most countries. There is some evidence that this may be caused in part by underdiagnosis, prostate‐specific antigen screening, and overdiagnosis. It also may be caused by trends in obesity, physical inactivity, HPV infection, substance exposure, environmental carcinogens, and/or referral patterns. How the biology of these cancers differs from that in older men and how the etiologies vary from country to country remain to be determined.
Share strategies with professors to support students with autism
Authors: Santhanam Siva priya
Published: September 2019

Students with a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder have begun to attend colleges and universities in high numbers in the last decade. These students often demonstrate an excellent ability to learn and have the curiosity and motivation for learning. However, they experience difficulties in college classrooms and face frustrations when they are unable to succeed. Although many students with ASD graduate from high school and pursue higher education, only one‐third of these students graduate from a four‐year university.
Nanoinformatics in Drug Delivery
Authors: Sason Hagit , Shamay Yosi
Published: September 2019

The use of nanomedicine for targeted drug delivery, though well established, is still a growing and developing field of research with potential benefits to many biomedical problems. There is a plethora of nano‐carriers with myriads of designs of shapes, sizes and composition that involves complex, trial and error based preparation protocols. The digital age brought an information revolution with automated data analysis, machine learning and data mining applied to almost every field of research including drug delivery. Indeed, nanomedicine has benefitted from the use of data science and information science to optimize, standardize, and understand the synthesis, characterization, and biological effects of nanomaterials. This short review will describe several concepts and a few examples of nanoinformatics, including Nano‐Quantitative Structure‐Activity Relationship (Nano‐QSAR), the use of computational methods for predicting different properties of nanomedicine in drug delivery and propose an outlook for the future.
Primary tumor‐secreted VEGF induces vascular hyperpermeability in premetastatic lung via the occludin phosphorylation/ubiquitination pathway
Authors: Li Ranran , Qi Yana , Jiang Man , Zhang Tiehong , Wang Hongwei , Wang Liguang , Han Mingyong
Published: September 2019

Primary tumor can induce the formation of premetastatic niche. The hyperpermeability of the vessels in the premetastatic niche is the first step in the development of metastasis. However, the cellular and molecular mechanisms of vascular hyperpermeability remain to be elucidated. In this study, 4T1 breast cells were injected into the breasts of mice to establish a tumor model. Our results showed that primary tumors induced hyperpermeability of the vessels in the premetastatic lung. Subsequent studies showed that the level of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was elevated in the tumor‐bearing mice serum and the levels of tight junction (TJ) proteins occludin and ZO‐1 were decreased in the premetastatic lung. In vitro studies demonstrated that VEGF increased the permeability of dextran and decreased the levels of occludin and ZO‐1 in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. Moreover, the hyperpermeability of vessels and the degradation of occludin was blocked by bevacizumab. Overexpression of occludin alleviated the VEGF‐induced hyperpermeability. Further investigations revealed that VEGF‐induced occludin phosphorylation at Ser‐490 and ubiquitination. Finally, we showed that VEGF accelerated the process of occludin degradation through the ubiquitin‐proteasome system. In conclusion, primary tumor‐secrete VEGF induce the occludin phosphorylation/ubiquitination and downregulation, resulting in the disruption of TJs and hyperpermeability of vessels in premetastatic lung. The occludin phosphorylation/ubiquitination pathway may be the mechanism of VEGF‐induced vascular hyperpermeability in the lung premetastatic niche.
Identification of Hatchery-Reared Lake Sturgeon Using Natural Elemental Signatures and Elemental Marking of Fin Rays
Authors: Loeppky A. R. , McDougall C. A. , Anderson W. G.
Published: September 2019

Stock enhancement programs often involve the introduction of hatchery-reared fish into wild environments, with the goal of increasing the abundance of a particular stock. To measure the success of stocking efforts for depressed populations, hatchery-reared individuals must be distinguishable from naturally spawned fish, potentially many years after release. Biological tags are attractive due to their ability to batch-mark whole cohorts in a cost-effective manner, with minimal disruption to hatchery procedures and reduced handling stress inflicted on individuals during the marking process. Elemental marking may occur naturally or via deliberate manipulation of the concentration of specific elements to create recognizable elemental signatures in the hard structures of fish (e.g., fin rays and otoliths). In this study, elemental signatures in the fin rays of known hatchery-released Lake Sturgeon Acipenser fulvescens (ages 1–7) were quantified via laser ablation (LA) inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) to assess whether the ambient water chemistry in a groundwater-fed hatchery would create an elemental signature that facilitated discrimination of hatchery-reared individuals from those naturally spawned in the wild. The concentrations of divalent trace elements, particularly Mn, within the first growth band of hatchery-reared fish were significantly different from those of wild conspecifics, allowing us to accurately classify hatchery- versus wild-spawned individuals with 99% success. In addition, we conducted a preliminary experiment to test the validity of two separate 24-h immersions in 86Sr and 137Ba (immersions were conducted 30 d apart) to induce multiple combination marks in the fin rays of juvenile Lake Sturgeon. Fin rays collected 60 d after the second immersion were analyzed for isotopic ratios via LA ICP-MS, and results indicated that elemental marking at both time points was achieved with 100% success. Induction of a combination of isotopic signatures could enable hatcheries to track the success of families or stocking groups within a single year-class or across multiple year-classes.
Do universal social and emotional learning programs for secondary school students enhance the competencies they address? A systematic review
Authors: van de Sande Marion C. E. , Fekkes Minne , Kocken Paul L. , Diekstra René F. W. , Reis Ria , Gravesteijn Carolien
Published: September 2019

While universal school‐based social and emotional learning (SEL) programs claim to target various SEL competencies, earlier reviews have not provided a clear overview of the competencies in question. We therefore wished to identify the competencies targeted in SEL programs for secondary school students. We also aimed to examine the effects of these programs on SEL competencies and psychosocial health. The specific SEL competencies directly addressed in the programs' primary learning targets were identified based on the Collaborative for Academic, Social and Emotional Learning (CASEL) framework for SEL. Five bibliographic databases (PubMed, PsychINFO, Education Resources Information Center (ERIC), Applied Science Premier (ASP), and Web of Science) were searched for relevant research papers published between 2014 and 2018. We included 40 studies that investigated 32 programs focusing on two or more SEL competencies. While most programs targeted four or five of the SEL competencies, many of the included studies did not measure the programs' effects on all the competencies targeted. Our results showed that the SEL programs had substantial effects on the SEL competencies they addressed and on psychosocial health. Although the programs focused predominantly on self‐management skills and relationship skills, the largest summary effects were found for self‐awareness and social awareness.
Impact of positive surgical margin length and Gleason grade at the margin on biochemical recurrence in patients with organ‐confined prostate cancer
Authors: Preisser Felix , Coxilha Gilberto , Heinze Alexander , Oh Su , Chun Felix K‐H. , Sauter Guido , Pompe Raisa S. , Huland Hartwig , Graefen Markus , Tilki Derya
Published: September 2019

Background

Positive surgical margins (PSMs) represent a poor prognostic factor at radical prostatectomy (RP). To investigate the impact of PSM, its length, the focality, and the PSM Gleason, on biochemical recurrence (BCR) in organ‐confined RP patients.

Methods

Within a high‐volume center database, we identified patients who harbored organ‐confined (pathologic stage T2 disease) prostate cancer (PCa) at RP (2010‐2016). Kaplan‐Meier analyses and multivariable Cox regression models were used to test the effect of the PSM on the BCR risk.

Results

Overall, 8770 patients were identified. Of those, 6.6% (n = 579) harbored PSM. BCR‐free survival at 72 months after RP was 77.7% vs 89.0% for patients with vs without PSM (P < .001). BCR‐free survival rates at 72 months were 77.4% vs 73.6% (P = .1) for unifocal vs multifocal PSM, 77.2% vs 71.8% (P = .03) for Gleason pattern 3 vs ≥4 at the margin and 88.4% vs 66.3% (P < .001) for <3 vs ≥3 mm length of margin. In multivariable Cox models PSM was an independent predictor for BCR (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.40, P < .001). However, in subgroups with PSM, only ≥3 mm PSM represented an independent predictor (HR = 1.93, P = .04), while focality and Gleason at the margin were no significant predictors.

Conclusion

PSM represents an independent predictor for BCR in organ‐confined PCa at RP. Moreover, Gleason ≥4 at the margin and ≥3 mm PSM length were associated with worse BCR‐free survival. Closer surveillance of patients with organ‐confined PCa at RP and PSM can help to identify those who qualify for early salvage radiotherapy.
Proton Irradiation on Cesium‐Fluoride‐Free and Cesium‐Fluoride‐Treated Cu(In,Ga)Se2 Solar Cells and Annealing Effects under Illumination
Authors: Khatri Ishwor , Lin Tzu-Ying , Nakada Tokio , Sugiyama Mutsumi
Published: September 2019

Several studies have been performed on proton irradiation onto alkali‐metal untreated Cu(In,Ga)Se2 (CIGS) solar cells. However, there are almost no studies describing similar effects on alkali‐treated CIGS solar cells. With this motivation, this work investigates proton irradiation and annealing effects under illumination on cesium‐fluoride‐free (CsF‐free) and CsF‐treated CIGS solar cells. Both CsF‐free and CsF‐treated CIGS solar cells degrade under proton irradiation. External quantum efficiency measurements show degradation in long wavelengths after the treatment. The experimental data are fitted with a simulation, which show that proton‐irradiated degradation is more severe at high fluence. Capacitance–voltage measurements show a broadening of the depletion region after proton irradiation, which is due to the decreased net carrier concentration. It is proposed that proton irradiation at low fluence generates shallow‐type defects, whereas high‐fluence protons generate deep defects. However, it is observed that room‐temperature storage of the proton‐irradiated solar cells causes partial recovery. Thermal annealing under illumination treatments is found to be beneficial to the drastic recovery of the performance of solar cells irradiated at low fluence. High‐fluence proton‐irradiated solar cells undergo minor recovery.
A Light‐Driven Microgel Rotor
Authors: Zhang Hang , Koens Lyndon , Lauga Eric , Mourran Ahmed , Möller Martin
Published: September 2019

The current understanding of motility through body shape deformation of micro‐organisms and the knowledge of fluid flows at the microscale provides ample examples for mimicry and design of soft microrobots. In this work, a 2D spiral is presented that is capable of rotating by non‐reciprocal curling deformations. The body of the microswimmer is a ribbon consisting of a thermoresponsive hydrogel bilayer with embedded plasmonic gold nanorods. Such a system allows fast local photothermal heating and nonreciprocal bending deformation of the hydrogel bilayer under nonequilibrium conditions. It is shown that the spiral acts as a spring capable of large deformations thanks to its low stiffness, which is tunable by the swelling degree of the hydrogel and the temperature. Tethering the ribbon to a freely rotating microsphere enables rotational motion of the spiral by stroboscopic irradiation. The efficiency of the rotor is estimated using resistive force theory for Stokes flow. This research demonstrates microscopic locomotion by the shape change of a spiral and may find applications in the field of microfluidics, or soft microrobotics.
How the Badger Became Tuberculous
Authors: Cassidy Angela
Published: September 2019

This chapter tells the story of how—amid the social political and economic turmoil of the early 1970s—Britain moved from optimism to panic about bTB, and from a single dead badger to a full-scale culling policy in a few short years. It will introduce the key political, social and environmental contexts of the time, and many of the dramatis personae who were to shape debates over badgers and bTB for many years to come. These included MAFF field officers, veterinarians and scientists who first became aware of and were charged with investigating the problem; the naturalists and zoologists knowledgeable about badgers and other wildlife; the policymakers and politicians who acted upon this knowledge; badger protection campaigners; and the organisms themselves—mycobacteria, cows and badgers.
Cutting the Cake of Science and Policy
Authors: Cassidy Angela
Published: September 2019

The publication of the Krebs review in 1997—shortly after the election of the New Labour government—marked a crucial turning point in British debates over badgers and bTB. Not only was it authored by a senior ecologist, it advocated a different organising principle for government research into bTB—that of the randomised controlled trial. These arguments were congruent with political ideas about ‘evidence-based policy’, resulting in the commissioning of the Randomised Badger Culling Trial (RBCT). This chapter will investigate the ‘backstage’ of bTB policy up to, during and in the ongoing aftermath of the RBCT. It will also explain the post-2010 return of government to badger culling in terms of behind the scenes epistemic rivalries between the worlds of animal health, disease ecology and badger protection.
Case Study
Authors: Jacob Maria , Neves Cláudia , Vukadinović Greetham Danica
Published: September 2019

In the previous chapter, we looked at load measurements for all households together and we ignored their chronological order. In contrast, in this chapter, we are interested in short term forecasting of household profiles individually. Therefore, information about the time at which measurements were taken becomes relevant.
Mastery in Endocrine Surgery
Authors: Doherty Gerard M.
Published: September 2019

The IAES is critical for surgeons who wish to have a high‐impact career, that is, a career affecting the health of strangers. The IAES is a platform designed for exposure to the multiplicity of approaches to patients with endocrine surgical problems. Our international membership shares its knowledge and experience freely, educating one another about our varied contexts of care, and range of solutions. Our membership model supports and encourages participation from a diverse assortment of sites. The IAES is the intersection of the various national and continental echo‐chambers of our groups organized inside of their prevailing paradigms where most participants practice along similar principles and care frameworks. This professional association is our chance to understand what works in other systems, so that we have that information available to us to apply in our home system. The IAES experience is indispensable in creating mastery in endocrine surgery.
Seismic risk of critical facilities in the Dominican Republic: case study of school buildings
Authors: Rojas-Mercedes N. J. , Di Sarno L. , Simonelli A. L. , Penna A.
Published: September 2019

The island of Hispaniola, shared by the Dominican Republic and Haiti, is located in a subduction zone between the North America plate and the Caribbean plate. In addition, there are 13 geological faults in the interior of the island, some of which have shown the potential to generate earthquakes of magnitude 7.5 and higher. Thus, the whole island is considered to be a high seismic risk region. In the past 100 years, several earthquakes have affected both parts of the island. In the case of the Dominican Republic, two earthquakes stand out: a magnitude 8.1 earthquake on August 4, 1946, north of the Samaná Province, which caused a tsunami, soil liquefaction, and the loss of about 100 lives, and a magnitude 6.5 earthquake on September 22, 2003, in the city of Puerto Plata, which caused significant damage for infrastructures. Among the observed effects, the partial and total collapse of several school buildings had a remarkable impact on local communities. In addition to the high seismic risk, a large part of the national infrastructure may exhibit high vulnerability to earthquakes because the seismic regulations had been the same for 32 years, namely from 1979 to 2011. During these three decades, thousands of structures were built nationwide, including essential facilities such as hospitals and schools. Considering that the current student population in public schools in the Dominican Republic is over 2 million, with the majority attending buildings that were designed with the 1979 seismic code and which proved to be highly vulnerable during the Puerto Plata earthquake, it is vital to take measures that reduce the risk and minimize potential earthquake damage to school buildings. In this context, the Technological Institute of Santo Domingo (INTEC) has undertaken recently a project with the main objective to assess the seismic vulnerability of 22 schools located in the San Cristóbal Province, in the south of the Dominican Republic. The latter schools were all built prior to the adoption of the current updated seismic code. This paper presents the results of the assessment of the Fernando Cabral Ortega School. Although only the results of a single RC building are presented, the response of such structure can be considered representative of a portfolio of existing schools in Dominican Republic.
Sachstandsbericht: Strukturierte medizinische Ersteinschätzung in Deutschland (SmED)
Authors: Graf von Stillfried D. , Czihal T. , Meer A.
Published: September 2019

Ab 01.01.2020 müssen die Kassenärztlichen Vereinigungen eine telefonische Ersteinschätzung im 24/7-Betrieb anbieten. Ziel ist die Ersteinschätzung der Dringlichkeit akuter Beschwerden und eine Vermittlung an die angemessene Versorgungsstufe. Sehr schwer kranke Patienten müssen unmittelbar der Notfallversorgung, weniger oder nicht dringliche Anliegen alternativen Versorgungsangeboten zugeführt werden. Diese anspruchsvolle Aufgabe werden Fachpersonen übernehmen, die durch geeignete Software unterstützt werden. Im Ausland existieren hierfür Vorbilder. Das Zentralinstitut für die kassenärztliche Versorgung (Zi) überträgt gemeinsam mit der Health Care Quality System GmbH (HCQS) das in Teilen der Schweiz bereits angewendete Swiss Medical Assessment System (SMASS) für eine Anwendung in Deutschland. Das System soll unter dem Namen Strukturierte medizinische Ersteinschätzung in Deutschland (SmED) im Jahr 2019 in den Arztrufzentralen unter der Nummer 116117 eingeführt werden. Auch eine Anwendung für den sogenannten „gemeinsamen Tresen“ von Bereitschaftsdienstpraxen und Krankenhausnotaufnahmen wird entwickelt. Beide Anwendungen werden in dem vom Innovationsfonds geförderten DEMAND-Projekt evaluiert. Die Entwicklung von SmED erfolgt unter Einbeziehung von Vertretern des Marburger Bundes sowie der Deutschen Gesellschaft Interdisziplinäre Notfall- und Akutmedizin (DGINA) und Deutschen Interdisziplinären Vereinigung für Intensiv- und Notfallmedizin (DIVI). Eine technische Integration mit der 112 ist in Arbeit.
Coupled shallow-water fluid sloshing in an upright annular vessel
Authors: Turner M. R. , Rowe J. R.
Published: September 2019

The coupled motion of shallow-water sloshing in a horizontally translating upright annular vessel is considered. The vessel’s motion is restricted to a single space dimension, such as for Tuned Liquid Damper systems. For particular parameters, the system is shown to support an internal 1 : 1 resonance, where the frequency of coupled sloshing mode which generates the vessel’s motion is equal to the frequency of a sloshing mode which occurs in a static vessel. Using a Lagrangian Particle Path formation, the fully nonlinear motion of the system is simulated using an efficient numerical symplectic integration scheme. The scheme is based on the implicit-midpoint rule which conserves energy and preserves the energy partition between the fluid and the vessel over many time-steps. Linear and nonlinear results are presented, including those showing the system transitioning to higher-frequency eigenmodes as the fluid depth is reduced.
Relationship between the lipid composition of maternal plasma and infant plasma through breast milk
Authors: Furse Samuel , Billing Georgia , Snowden Stuart G. , Smith James , Goldberg Gail , Koulman Albert
Published: September 2019

Introduction

This study was motivated by the report that infant development correlates with particular lipids in infant plasma.

Objective

The hypothesis was that the abundance of these candidate biomarkers is influenced by the dietary intake of the infant.

Methods

A cohort of 30 exclusively-breastfeeding mother–infant pairs from a small region of West Africa was used for this observational study. Plasma and milk from the mother and plasma from her infant were collected within 24 h, 3 months post partum. The lipid, sterol and glyceride composition was surveyed using direct infusion MS in positive and negative ion modes. Analysis employed a combination of univariate and multivariate tests.

Results

The lipid profiles of mother and infant plasma samples are similar but distinguishable, and both are distinct from milk. Phosphatidylcholines (PC), cholesteryl esters (CEs) and cholesterol were more abundant in mothers with respect to their infants,e.g.PC(34:1) was 5.66% in mothers but 3.61% in infants (p = 3.60 × 10−10), CE(18:2) was 8.05% in mothers but 5.18% in infants (p = 1.37 × 10−11) whilst TGs were lower in mothers with respect to their infants,e.g.TG(52:2) was 2.74% in mothers and 4.23% in infants (p = 1.63 × 10−05). A latent structure model showed that four lipids in infant plasma previously shown to be biomarkers clustered with cholesteryl esters in the maternal circulation.

Conclusion

This study found evidence that the abundance of individual lipid isoforms associated with infant development are associated with the abundance of individual molecular species in the mother’s circulation.
On the Production of Severely Deformed Workpieces in Large Scales: A Step Towards Industrialization
Authors: Bagherpour E. , Mortezaei S. , Ebrahimi R. , Miyamoto H. , Qods F.
Published: September 2019

Improvement of the functional properties of aluminium and its alloys by grain refinement is an effective way to increase their applications. The capability of severe plastic deformation methods to produce ultrafine-grained materials has been well established. However, their industrial application is limited because of the required additional equipment and limitation of the product size. Due to the direct extrusion characteristic of the simple shear extrusion (SSE) method and consequently the minimal additional tools and expenses, SSE is a good candidate for commercialization. The aim of this research is to scale up the SSE products to facilitate their potential use in practical applications. To overcome the limitation on the length of the plunger and reduce the load of the SSE process, a design is proposed in the current research. Microstructural investigations and mechanical tests of commercial pure aluminium (AA1050) workpieces confirm the effectiveness of the proposed design on the grain refinement and its capability to reduce the processing load.
Sulfation Roasting Mechanism for Spent Lithium-Ion Battery Metal Oxides Under SO2-O2-Ar Atmosphere
Authors: Shi Junjie , Peng Chao , Chen Min , Li Yun , Eric Hurman , Klemettinen Lassi , Lundström Mari , Taskinen Pekka , Jokilaakso Ari
Published: September 2019

Sulfation roasting followed by water leaching has been proposed as an alternative route for recycling valuable metals from spent lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). In the present work, the reaction mechanism of the sulfation roasting of synthetic LiCoO2 was investigated by both thermodynamic calculations and roasting experiments under flowing 10% SO2-1% O2-89% Ar gas atmosphere at 700°C. The products and microstructural evolution processes were characterized by x-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope and energy dispersive x-ray spectrometer, and atomic absorption spectroscopy. It was confirmed that Co3O4 was formed as an intermedia product, and the final roasted products were composed by Li2SO4, Li2Co(SO4)2, and CoO. The leaching results indicated that 99.5% Li and 17.4% Co could be recovered into water after 120 min of roasting. The present results will provide the basis and solid guidelines for recycling of Li and Co from spent LIBs.
The use of lighting simulation in the evidence-based design process: A case study approach using visual comfort analysis in offices
Authors: Davoodi Anahita , Johansson Peter , Aries Myriam
Published: September 2019

The EBD-SIM (evidence-based design, simulation) framework is a conceptual framework developed to integrate the use of lighting simulation in the EBD process to provide a holistic performance evaluation method. A real-time case study, executed in a fully operational office building, is used to demonstrate the framework’s performance. The case study focused on visual comfort analysis. The objective is to demonstrate the applicability of the developed EBD-SIM framework using correlations between current visual comfort metrics and actual human perception as evaluation criteria. The data were collected via simulation for visual comfort analysis and via questionnaires for instantaneous and annual visual comfort perception. The study showed that for user perception, the most crucial factor for visual comfort is the amount of light on a task area, and simple metrics such as Eh-room and Eh-task had a higher correlation with perceived visual comfort than complex performance metrics such as Daylight Autonomy (DA). To improve the design process, the study suggests that, among other things, post-occupancy evaluations (POEs) should be conducted more frequently to obtain better insight into user perception of daylight and subsequently use new evidence to further improve the design of the EBD-SIM model.
Interaction between hydraulic fractures and natural fractures: current status and prospective directions
Authors: Kolawole Oladoyin , Ispas Ion
Published: September 2019

Hydraulic fracturing treatment is one of the most efficient conventional matrix stimulation techniques currently utilized in the petroleum industry. However, due to the spatiotemporal complex nature of fracture propagation in a naturally- and often times systematically fractured media, the influence of natural fractures (NF) and in situ stresses on hydraulic fracture (HF) initiation and propagation within a reservoir during the hydrofracturing process remains an important issue. Over the past 50 years of advances in the understanding of HF–NF interactions, no comprehensive revision of the state of the knowledge exists. Here, we reviewed over 140 scientific articles on investigations of HF–NF interactions, published over the past 50 years. We highlight the most commonly observed HF–NF interactions and their implications for unconventional oil and gas production. Using observational and quantitative analyses, we find that numerical modeling and simulation is the most prominent method of approach, whereas there are less publications on the experimental approach, and analytical method is the least utilized approach. Further, we suggest how HF–NF interactions can be monitored in real time on the field during a pre-frac test. Lastly, based on the results of our literature review, we recommend promising areas of investigation that may provide more profound insights into HF–NF interactions in such a way that can be directly applied to the optimization of fracture-stimulation field operations.
Refractory psycho-existential distress and continuous deep sedation until death in palliative care: The French perspective
Authors: Reich Michel , Bondenet Xavier , Rambaud Laurence , Ait-Kaci Fazya , Sedda Anne-Laure , Da Silva Arlette , Villet Stéphanie , Gamblin Vincent
Published: September 2019

Objective

Since February 2016, French Claeys-Leonetti law has recognized patients' right to confront incurable diseases with short-term prognosis and refractory physical or psychological or existential symptoms by requesting continuous deep sedation until death (CDSUD). Determining when psychological or existential distress is refractory and unbearable remains complex and controversial.

This review provides a comprehensive thought on CDSUD for advanced incurable patients with refractory psychological and/or existential distress in palliative care settings. It offers guidance on psychiatric or psychological diagnosis for explaining patients' requests for CDSUD.

Method

A narrative literature review (2000–2019) was conducted on the MedLine search about the use of palliative sedation in cases of refractory psychological and/or existential distress.

Results

(1) Definitions of “refractory symptom,” “refractory psychological distress,” and “refractory existential distress” are inconsistent; (2) alternative diagnoses might obscure or be obscured by psycho-existential distress; and (3) criteria on meanings, reasons for requests, decision-making processes, and functions are evolving in practice.

Significance of results

Before implementing CDSUD, palliative healthcare professionals should seek input from psycho-oncologists in palliative care. Mental health professionals should analyze and assess the reasons for psychological and/or existential distress, consider the intentionality processes of requests, and explore alternative diagnoses, such as depressive or adjustment disorders, demoralization syndrome, desire to hasten death, and desire for euthanasia. Therapeutic responses (e.g., pharmacological and psychotherapeutic) should be implemented before deciding that psycho-existential distress is refractory.