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Obejctives: The aim of the current study was to investigate whether genetic risk factors may moderate the association between adherence to the Mediterranean diet and AD incidence. Mehtods: The sample was drawn from the HELIAD study, a longitudinal study with a follow-up interval of 3 years. In total 537 older adults without dementia or AD at baseline were included. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet was assessed at baseline and AD diagnosis was determined at both visits. A Polygenic Index for late onset AD (PGI-AD) was constructed. Cox proportional hazard models adjusted for age, sex, education, baseline Global cognition score and APOE e-4 genotype were employed to evaluate the association between PGI-AD and Mediterranean diet with AD incidence. Next, we examined the association between adherence to the Mediterranean diet and AD risk over time across participants stratified by low and high PGI-AD. Results: Twenty-eight participants developed AD at follow-up. In fully adjusted models both the PGI-AD and the adherence to the Mediterranean diet were associated with AD risk (p < 0.05 for both). In the low PGI-AD group, those with a low adherence had a 10-fold higher risk of developing AD per year of follow-up, than did the participants with a high adherence to the Mediterranean diet (p = 0.011), whereas no such association was found for participants in the high PGI-AD group. Discussion: The association of Mediterranean diet with AD risk is more prominent in the group of older adults with a low polygenic risk for developing AD. Our findings suggest that genetic risk factors should be taken into account when planning interventions aiming to improve cognitive health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spent coffee grounds (SCG) and derived products have characteristics (high content of carbon and nutrients) that make them potentially useful as soil amendments. To evaluate the impact of SCG and derived products on soil functionality, an incubation (30 days) was performed with a soil amended with different doses (0.5, 1 and 1.75%) of SCG, a biochar produced from SCG at 270 °C (B270) and a hydrochar produced from SCG at 200 °C (H200). During incubation, the following parameters were measured: CO2 and N2O emissions, extractable organic Carbon (EOC), extractable Nitrogen (EN), NO3− and NH4+, microbial biomass Carbon (BC) and Nitrogen (BN). Soil amended with the most degradable materials (SCG and H200) showed greater amounts of CO2, BC and EOC, but also N immobilization. B270 was the most efficient amendment for the retention of added C and led to less N immobilization when compared with SCG and H200. SCG derived amendments can fulfil different functions in soil: SCG and H200 are more indicated for increasing C mineralization and microbial pool, while B270 is more effective at enhancing organic C levels. Higher rates of application generally led to more positive impacts on soil functioning, with the only limitation being short-term N immobilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food contact surfaces (FCSs) include all surfaces that may come in contact with the food during production, processing, and packaging. Food processing industries encounter several challenges due to its microbial interaction with the FCSs, such as cross contamination of pathogenic microorganism or allergens in food, formation of biofilm, biodeterioration of food contact surface leads to food with reduced shelf-life and quality. A legal EU framework provides the fundamental postulates for the safety and inertness for all Food Contact Materials (FCMs). Legislations have an important role in providing regulatory guidance on the quality assurance systems and verifying their implementation as a means of regulatory compliance. This review article is focused on the challenges faced by the food processing industry with respect to food contact surfaces. Furthermore, relevant regulations provided by the European framework regarding the food contact materials are also discussed. Finally, new approaches which stand as the solutions to these challenges are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) is the method of choice to convert wet waste biomass to hydrochars. Their porous structure can serve as a microenvironment to plant-growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), supporting their growth, survival, and activities. As published work lacks the systematic compilation of pore characteristics of hydrochars related to bacterial colonization, we collect available data and elaborate on their dependence on the carbonization process conditions, feedstocks, and methodology of pore system characterization. Our analysis indicates a high abundance of pores sized between 1 and 20 μm relevant for the protection of PGPR from predators, and of nutrients and labile C in hydrochars supporting bacterial growth. In addition to the selection of optimized process parameters and feedstocks (240–260 °C, low feedstock pH, non-lignocellulosic biomass), adding mineral amendments prior to HTC offers opportunities for engineering hydrochars with an even larger share of pore space suited for bacterial colonization. Using the comprehensive literature on biochars, we demonstrate that the interior pore space in chars determines the potential to serve as an inoculum carrier to PGPR, thereby enhancing nutrient acquisition and protecting plants from diseases and abiotic stresses. The pore characteristics of hydrochars are comparable to biochars, and hydrochars are generally superior in providing a labile C reservoir that PGPR can readily access. We argue that HTC provides a cost-effective conversion route to produce PGPR vectors/carriers from wet (waste) biomass serving various environmental management objectives (waste recycling, soil fertility, soil remediation technologies) and circular bioeconomy (sustainable agriculture, substituting non-renewable carrier materials and fertilizers). We review the role of pore characteristics of hydrochars for bacterial colonization We identify opportunities for engineering hydrochars to provide favorable habitat conditions to PGPR 240–260 °C, low pH, non-lignocellulosic feedstocks, and adding mineral amendments increase the habitable pore space Hydrochars offer suitable pore characteristics and high labile C amounts and are promising PGPR carriers/vectors [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growing demand for alternative green energy and environmental crises is a significant concern for the world population. Thus, researchers have devoted effort to finding cheap, eco-friendly, and robust functional materials. The bottleneck faced by scientists is the synthesis of a material with high surface area, highly functionalized, and cost-effective. To this end, biomass-based hydrothermal carbons are gaining increasing attention due to the presence of functional groups introduced during hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) and mild/tunable preparation conditions. This review Materials the synthesis, parameters that influence the carbonization process, and mechanisms involved during HTC. Other synthesis routes for enhancing the properties of HTC carbon materials are also discussed. The application of HTC carbon materials, including energy storage devices, catalysis, electrocatalysis, photocatalysis, and adsorption, are reported. Lastly, we present the challenges and possible strategies for improving the HTC process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil amendment with biochar is evaluated globally as a means to improve soil fertility, restoration of the ecological functions for anthropogenically polluted soils and also is a potential candidate to mitigate climate change. Application of biochar, a carbon-rich material developed from the combustion of biomass under no or limited oxygen supply has been found to ameliorate some of the negative effects of soil. Biochar modifications can lead to an increase in the water holding capacity as well as pH modification may also be used as a soil amendment. There are various other physical, chemical, and biological properties of biochar that can impact soils. However, the effects of biochar on soil biota have received much less attention than its effects on soil chemical properties. This review highlights essentially the various methods of preparation of biochar from waste biomasses and its usage as a potential soil amendment agent with a special emphasis on the effect of biochar on soil microbiology. A well-accepted mechanism of the effect of biochar on soil microbe environment still needs more focus. Therefore, the current review will further help in understanding the feasibility, safety, and effectiveness of biochar utilization for improving the fertility of the soil. This paper presents a detailed review of the biochar utilization as soil amendment describing the various methods of biochar preparation, its modification, usage for soil improvement, etc. A constructive review of the impact of biochar on soil microbiology has also been presented in the paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Tendon overuse injuries are prevalent conditions with limited therapeutic options to halt disease progression. The specialized extracellular matrix (ECM) both enables joint function and mediates mechanical signals to tendon cells, driving biological responses to exercise or injury. With overuse, tendon ECM composition and structure changes at multiple scales, disrupting mechanotransduction and resulting in inadequate repair and disease progression. This review highlights the multiscale ECM changes that occur with tendon overuse and corresponding effects on cell-matrix interactions and cellular response to load.Results: Different functional joint requirements and tendon types experience a wide range of loading profiles, creating varied downstream mechanical stimuli. Distinct ECM structure and mechanical properties within the fascicle matrix, interfascicle matrix, and enthesis and their varied disruption with overuse are considered. The pericellular matrix (PCM) comprising the microscale tendon cell environment has a unique composition that changes with overuse injury and exercise, suggesting an important role in mechanotransduction and promoting repair. Cell-matrix interactions are mediated by structures including cilia, integrins, connexins and cytoskeleton that signal downstream homeostasis, adaptation, or repair. ECM disruption with tendon overuse may cause altered mechanical loading and cell-matrix interactions, resulting in mechanobiological understimulation, apoptosis, and ineffective repair. Current interventions to promote repair of tendon overuse injuries including exercise, targeting cell signaling, and modulating inflammation are considered.Conclusion: Future therapeutics should be assessed with regard of their effects on multiscale mechanotransduction in addition to joint function, with consideration of the central role of ECM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper we will discuss the problem of generation of sequences of orthogonal polynomials with respect to measures supported on the unit circle from a given sequence of orthogonal polynomials using a perturbation of a cubic sieved process. The basic tools are the Szeg $ o\kern -5pt \'{}\kern -1pt\'{} $ forward recurrence relation as well as the fact of the coprimality of orthogonal polynomials on the unit circle and their corresponding reverse polynomials. We also give the connection between the associated orthogonality measures. Finally, some examples of this cubic decomposition are shown. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This perspective paper argues for the importance of a better understanding of expert organizations' roles in creating expert knowledge and these organizations' responsibilities in building the next generation of experts. To what extent is this responsibility theirs, do they take it on, and what are the consequences if they do or do not? The argument is based on a comparison of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Service (IPBES). Using a theoretical framework that defines expertise, expert communities, and expertise in organizations, the analysis explores and explains the structural preconditions that guide these organizations in their work. The paper shows how the IPCC and the IPBES play similar but different roles in developing expertise and creating the next generation of experts due to differences in their current organizational structures. The paper also shows how the IPCC and the IPBES are not mere facilitators or coordinators of existing expert knowledge. Instead, the IPCC and the IPBES also create experience-based situated expert knowledge that influences the epistemic communities that inform environmental governance on climate change and biodiversity loss and enable transformative change for a sustainable future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon nanocoil is spiral/helix like nanostructure. It is a unique nanocarbon having high surface area, electrical conductivity, low resistivity, capacitance, stretchability, and mechanical characteristics. The nanocoil nanostructure is useful in capacitors, sensors, electronics, and energy devices. The review essentially focuses on progress to date in field of polymer/carbon nanocoil nanocomposites. Variety of polymers including polyaniline, polypyrrole, poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene), poly(dimethyl siloxane), poly(vinyl alcohol), poly(ethylene glycol), etc., were reinforced with carbon nanocoil through solution, in-situ, electropolymerization, blending, peel off, and other techniques. Emerging features and applications of polymer/carbon nanocoil nanocomposite in technical fields of supercapacitor, fuel cell, damping, and antibacterial materials are also considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mucosa has now been recognized as a potential site for both local and systemic delivery of therapeutics. Mucoadhesive drug delivery systems with customizable release profiles have recently gained considerable interest among formulation scientists to improve clinical outcomes of drugs. This review summarizes the current development in the processing methods and polymers involved in mucoadhesive drug delivery systems. Mucoadhesive drug delivery systems are suitable for drugs that have a localized effect, undergo extensive pre-systemic metabolism, narrow absorption window, and narrow therapeutic index. Polymer characteristics like surface charge, hydrophilic surface groups, wettability, molecular weight, chain flexibility, molecular conformations, etc. are critical for assessing the extent of mucoadhesiveness and treatment response. The current review focuses on valuable principles, merits, drawbacks, and future outlooks of different mucoadhesive drug delivery systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examine how intrinsic motivations in two health interaction contexts – online and doctor's office visit – influence online health information seeking (OHIS). Many studies have approached OHIS through short-term gratification of informational needs. Our study uses a conceptual framework of intrinsic human motivation to better understand OHIS as a form of sustained behavior. We applied Self Determination Theory's three key constructs (Autonomy, Competence, and Relatedness) within a locus of patient-physician relations. Our findings, based on a survey of 993 online health information seekers in India, show that support for Autonomy in the online context explains all three categories of OHIS behaviors: Diagnosis and Treatment Information Seeking, General Health Information Seeking, and Office Visit Information Seeking. Support for Relatedness in the online context explains only Office Visit Information Seeking. However, support for Autonomy, Competence, and Relatedness in the office visit experience could not explain why people engage in OHIS overall. Motivations for the office visit are not associated with the online experience, suggesting that online and offline are not just two kinds of substitute health interaction contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work evaluates a continuous biomass hydrothermal carbonization process through modeling and steady state simulation using the UniSim Design process simulator. The reactive process was divided into four stages: biomass hydrolysis, intermediate compounds degradation, aromatics formation, and polymerization process, which make it possible to obtain the solid product or hydrochar. Pure biomass types and their mixtures were compared, considering hydrochar and carbon yields, H/C, and O/C ratios, and their deviation from the batch process. The results of hydrochar yield indicated that biomass with high cellulose content can perform satisfactorily in the proposed model. In addition, the possibility of carrying out the process in reactive stages together with the recirculation of liquid product, allowed a greater yield with respect to the batch process. It is concluded that the proposed model improves the characteristics of the obtained hydrochar compared to its crude biomass, achieving lower proportions of hydrogen and oxygen in the solid product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Large amounts of labile compounds are adsorbed to the surface of chars produced by hydrothermal carbonization (HTC). The aim of this study was to characterize the core and adsorbed fractions of hydrochars and to gain knowledge about the possibility to remove phytotoxic compounds by washings with water. Chars were produced by HTC of sewage sludge at different temperatures (180 - 200 °C) and over different periods of time (4 - 8 h). For comparison one pyrolysis char produced by thermocatalytic low temperature conversion (LTC) at 400 °C for 1 h was included in the study. The chars and their feedstocks were treated varying the duration (1 x 15, 1 × 30 and 1 × 60 min) and number (2 x 60 and 3 × 60 min) of washings. Physicochemical properties, including the molecular structure of the test materials, and their effects on germination and plant growth were analysed. Element concentrations and phytotoxic effects were reduced and the number of washings had a stronger effect than their length of time. Intensive washings with water reduced the hydrochars’ portion of biodegradable compounds significantly. However, also plant available nutrients were lost by washing with water, decreasing the value of hydrochars as a soil amendment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to higher proportions of labile carbon (C) compounds the suitability of biochar produced by hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) for C sequestration is questionable. We hypothesized that pre-treatment with water would reduce the biological decay of hydrochar from sewage sludge. Unwashed and washed feedstock and hydrochar were incubated in a short-term experiment. The kinetics of the biological decomposition of the materials was calculated on the basis of a double exponential model and the C sequestration potential using the CANDY Carbon Balance (CCB) model. Biological decomposition of the carbonized materials was governed by the percentage of labile C compounds. Mean residence time of a fast (MRTfast) and slow decay pool (MRTslow) of unwashed hydrochars varied clearly (MRTfast: 0.8 - 5.0 months and the MRTslow: 5.0-18.6 months). The pre-treatment with water removed labile hydrochar C and reduced the biological accessibility. MRTfast and MRTslow was increased by intensive washings (MRTfast: 5.0-7.4 months and the MRTslow: 14.9 months). High synthesis coefficients suggest that hydrochar C was humified and transferred into stabilized SOC. The results clearly show that once adsorbed components were eliminated, and as compared to pyrolysed biochar hydrochar from sewage sludge may also be useful for soil C sequestration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) of organic matter, hydrochars are produced which may be applied to soil for carbon sequestration. From substrates of wild seaweed and organic waste digestate, we measured the distribution of solids (hydrochars) and liquids after HTL at 150 and 200°C, 50 bar for 1 h. The output of liquids and solids was recorded. Elemental analysis was conducted for essential plant nutrients, potentially toxic elements (PTEs) and silicon in the hydrochars. Sequential extraction of phosphorous (P) was conducted to assess the P availability for plants. About 20% of the initial dry matter dissolved during HTL of digestate, and 55% for seaweed. More dry matter was dissolved by increased temperature. Except from arsenic in seaweed chars, the concentrations of PTEs were below quality compost thresholds. About 85% of P was recovered in chars for digestate. For seaweed, the recovery was 97% at 150°C, decreasing to 84% at 200°C. The solubility of P in chars decreased by HTL, and more with higher temperature. Reduced P availability, especially by higher temperature, is negative for the immediate fertilization effect. However, for soil sequestration of carbon, reduced P availability in hydrochars may expand the area where application may occur without negative environmental effects of eutrophication of water bodies. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Background:The aim of this paper is to provide the reader with an overall impression of the stepwise user-centred design approach including the specific methods used and lessons learned when transforming paper-based assessment forms into a prototype app, taking the Housing Enabler as an example. Methods:Four design iterations were performed, building on a domain study, workshops, expert evaluation and controlled and realistic usability tests. The user-centred design process involved purposefully selected participants with different Housing Enabler knowledge and housing adaptation experience. Results:The design iterations resulted in the development of a Housing Enabler prototype app. The prototype app has several features and options that are new compared with the original paper-based Housing Enabler assessment form. These new features include a user friendly overview of the assessment form; easy navigation by swiping back and forth between items; onsite data analysis; and ranking of the accessibility score, photo documentation and a data export facility. Conclusion:Based on the presented stepwise approach, a high-fidelity Housing Enabler prototype app was successfully developed. The development process has emphasized the importance of combining design participants’ knowledge and experiences, and has shown that methods should seem relevant to participants to increase their engagement. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The emergence of the e-patient has resulted in many medical practitioners' being ill-equipped to deal with the 21st-century medical practice. This Guide is a teaching guide for medical educators so that they can prepare their students for the new environment that has resulted from the emergence of the e-patient. Within the context of theoretical perspectives, the Guide begins by defining the concept, and examining the history of the e-patient, detailing typical e-patient activities and some complexities raised by these activities. Finally, the Guide details the topic areas that should be covered in a course aimed at preparing medical students for e-patients. The result is a theoretical and practical teaching Guide that equips medical teachers and their students with the necessary background information, and also assists teachers in the teaching of that information so that their students may become health practitioners fully equipped to deal with the problems and potential of the e-patient. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Biochar is the name given to charcoal produced from pyrolyzed biomass with the purpose to add into soils to enhance soil properties and sequestrate carbon. Biochar has been a very popular research topic and a large amount of scientific literature has been produced in the last decade. Papers show biochar production from almost any type of biomass available using diverse types of thermochemical processes which have variations in technology, design, and conditions. All this variability in biomass feedstock and production has made biochar a very heterogeneous product, making it difficult to understand the biochar characteristics and qualities and what are the benefits and risks of its application in soils. This review presents a comprehensive vision of biochar properties, and their impact when biochar is applied to soils. To better understand this impact, biochar-collected data were classified in six types according to the main biomass used in its production, and divided into two thermochemical treatments: convectional pyrolysis methods and Hydrothermal Carbonization (HTC). Four biochar properties were studied: (i) physical and structural characteristics, (ii) chemical properties, (iii) agronomical properties, and (iv) contaminants. Outcomes of this review suggest that biochar can be a good soil amendment with capacity to enhance physical, chemical, and agronomic soil qualities. Nevertheless, results show the current lack of appropriate methodological analytical determination of some of the biochar characteristics. This can mislead to erroneous biochar characterization which could lead to future environmental issues. The review of the data suggested that some types of biomass could be not suitable for biochar soil application due to high levels of contaminants, although the information about solubility and availability of these contaminants in many cases is not clear. A consistent methodology, protocol, or index to measure biochar carbon stability in soils was not found; data suggest that a small proportion of biochars would not be suitable for carbon sequestration in soils but they could have good agronomical properties—this finding suggested that biochar production can be customized based on its final use. However, before proceeding to recommend massive use of biochar in soil, more research is necessary to have enough knowledge and understanding of biochar properties to develop models to predict biochar transport, fate, and impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study elucidates the experiential and motivational aspects of online health information beyond the theoretically limited instrumental perspective that dominates the extant literature. Based on a sample of 993 online health information seekers in India, the survey found that online health information seeking offers individuals greater autonomy, competence, and relatedness compared to face-to-face office visits with physicians. According to self-determination theory, individuals are motivated to act by a sense of volition and experience of willingness, validation of one’s skills and competencies, and feeling of connection with others who shaped one’s decisions. These 3 psychological needs, which motivate individuals to pursue what they innately seek as human beings, help explain why individuals turn online for health information.Ttests showed that all 3 self-determination theory constructs —autonomy, competence, and relatedness—were higher for online health information seeking than for face-to-face office visits with physicians. A regression analysis found that 2 variables, autonomy and relatedness, explained online health information seeking. Competence was not a significant factor, likely because of competency issues faced by individuals in interpreting, understanding, and making use of online health information. The findings, which do not suggest that online health information seeking would displace physicians as many have feared, offer promise for an integrated system of care. Office visits with physicians would necessarily evolve into an expanded communicative space of health information seeking instead of an alternative channel for health information. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Despite suggested benefits of hydrochars and biochars, little is known about their effects on root development and root-char interactions. To compare effects of two types of biochar (Pyro and Pyreg) and one hydrochar (hydrothermal carbonization (HTC)) on root growth of spring wheat, two rhizobox experiments were set up where physical contact of roots with chars was prevented using nylon gauze. Rhizoboxes were filled with unamended soil as a control or with three different soil-char mixtures (Pyro, Pyreg and HTC). Shoots and roots were harvested before flowering and at tillering in the first and second experiment, respectively. Chemical soil properties (Nt, K, Ct, pH value) were affected differently by the different chars. Both shoot and root dry matter were influenced by chars. Pyro-char had positive effects on root dry matter in both experiments. At tillering, HTC-char affected root length, root surface and number of root tips negatively. Our findings suggest that nutrients released from chars may affect root morphology of spring wheat. The comparison of different types of chars showed different effects on root growth, shoot growth and soil changes depending on feedstock, production process and the varied amount of chars. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Purpose: A common presentation of mitochondrial myopathies is chronic progressive external ophthalmoplegia (CPEO). Dysphagia is a complaint in about 50% of cases. Method: This investigation evaluated pharyngeal transit in patients with CPEO. Videofluoroscopic swallowing evaluation was performed with paste, liquid and solid boluses in 14 patients with CPEO and in 16 normal volunteers. Result: There was no difference between patients and volunteers in the duration of pharyngeal swallowing events with the liquid bolus. Compared to control participants, patients with CPEO had significantly shorter duration of pharyngeal transit for paste and solid boluses, of pharyngeal clearance for paste bolus, and of upper oesophageal sphincter transit for paste and solid boluses. Spontaneous multiple swallows and effortful swallows were performed by patients but not by the volunteers. Conclusion: It was concluded that patients with CPEO have shorter pharyngeal transit duration of paste and solid boluses than normal volunteers, which may be a consequence of a spontaneous smaller bolus volume in each swallow and/or effortful swallows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study analyses the determinants of residential location patterns of dual-worker households in the Seoul Metropolitan area (SMA) using the 2006 Household Travel Survey (HTS) data. To achieve this we employ two statistical methods: (1) a multinomial logit (MNL) model for analysing the residential location patterns of dual-worker households given the couples' predetermined joint workplaces; and (2) standard regression models to identify the determinants of couples' spatial separation (or proximity) between their homes and workplaces. Our major findings can be summarised as follows: (1) dual-worker households in the SMA are likely to choose a residence closer to the wife's workplace than the husband's; (2) the wife's commute length and duration are significantly shorter than the husband's; (3) the wife's family serving role is the most important factor in determining a location with greater proximity between the home and the wife's workplace; and (4) commute times better depict gender differences than commute distance. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The effect of food consistency on swallowing function has been widely studied, and it is well recognized that by delaying the flow of the food bolus, thickened liquids can help in the management of swallowing dysfunction. However, fewer studies have been carried out on the impact of food sensory properties and related liking on swallowing function. This paper reviews the role of taste, olfaction, and trigeminal perceptions on swallowing function and highlights the need for a deeper investigation of this aspect of patient diet modification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing interest in the quality of life of patients after treatment of brain tumors has led to the exploration of methods that can improve intraoperative assessment of neurological status to avoid neurological deficits. The only method that can provide assessment of all eloquent areas of cerebral cortex and white matter is brain mapping during awake craniotomy. This method helps ensure that the quality of life and the neuro-oncological result of treatment are not compromised. Apart from the medical aspects of awake surgery, its economic issues are also favorable. Here, we review the main aspects of awake brain tumor surgery. Neurosurgical, neuropsychological, neurophysiological and anesthetic issues are briefly discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PERSPECTIVES is a special feature included in this issue of Journal of Creativity in Mental Health that provides mental health professionals with an opportunity to discuss their positions on a variety of creativity related topics. In this article, Erin Kern, a doctoral candidate, shares her perspective on the importance of integrating counselor vulnerability and professional identity. Counselors are often expected to represent the “normal” population, impervious to having their own mental health issues. However, many counselors are wounded healers, struggling to achieve integration of their own vulnerabilities with their professional identity. This article focuses on the importance of such integration to accomplish greater levels of authenticity in counseling, working, and supervisory relationships. The introduction of the superhero narrative facilitates the awareness that counselors can reframe instances of vulnerability as an opportunity for authenticity, bravery, and strength. The acknowledgment and ownership of vulnerability provides counselors with the potential to achieve deeper understanding and empathy for clients, thereby establishing a stronger therapeutic connection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study is an empirical investigation of household interactions in joint in-home and out-of-home daily maintenance activity participation. Intra-personal trade-offs between solo and joint in-home and out-of-home maintenance activity participation decisions, and the possible substitution and/or complementary patterns between them were examined. Additionally, inter-personal trade-offs between solo and joint 'with whom' out-of-home maintenance activity participation decisions were explored. Finally, the role of social roles, mobility resources, and internet availability in individuals' daily joint maintenance activity participation was analyzed. The analyses included the following two dimensions: (1) modeling the choice behavior of solo and joint in-home and out-of-home maintenance activity participation, and (2) modeling the choice behavior of solo and joint 'with whom' out-of-home maintenance activity participation. Two mixed multinomial logit (MMNL) models were developed using two-day activity and travel diary data from Cairo, Egypt. The MMNL model structure offers several advantages over other types of discrete choice models. First, it can accommodate intra-individual variations (i.e. heterogeneity) in joint activity participation. Also, it is capable of determining possible sources of any solo and joint preference heterogeneity that may exist. Finally, correlations due to shared unobservable factors among solo and joint activity participations can be captured within the model. Empirical evidences support many of the research hypotheses regarding joint 'with whom' maintenance activity participations. Household traditions, social roles, and life style were found to be the main factors that affect joint activity participation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To test quasi-optical mode converters for gyrotrons, an efficient low-power generator for rotating high-order modes with high purity is necessary. A W-band mode generator which converts a TE1,0rectangular waveguide mode into either a linearly or a circularly polarized TE5,1circular mode is designed, fabricated, and measured. The generator consists of a mode converter, a waveguide transition, and a polarization converter. The converting process in each section is displayed and the working principles are discussed. The back-to-back measured results show that the conversion efficiency exceeds 63% with −2 dB from 92 to 95 GHz is obtained. The angle-independent transmissions demonstrate high-mode purity and the field pattern is directly demonstrated on a temperature-sensitive liquid-crystal sheet. The proposed mode generator features high-mode purity, easy to construct, and polarization controllability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Already in its infancy, the World Wide Web was predicted to be a prime tool to promote healthier behaviors. The purpose of this paper is to compare the use of and trust in health information on the Internet during two points of time, 2001 and 2009. The target group of the study is the Finnish population aged 18-65 years. The empirical material is based on two similar postal surveys. Over the period, growth in Internet use was rapid. The results also show a huge growth in use of and trust in health information on the Internet. But still, the e-Health visions evoked in the late 1990s are far from fulfilled, since too many people seem not to seek or obtain health information from the Internet at all. Furthermore, still in 2009, approximately one-third of the respondents had no conception ('do not know') about the online health information reliability, due to the fact that they had used it too rarely or not at all. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowledge intensive services and, in particular, R&D services contribute significantly to innovation in firms. The objective of this paper is to find out which characteristics of firms explain the acquisition of R&D services and to analyse whether there are differences depending on the typology of the supplier (universities, technology centres and consulting firms). Three main conclusions emerge from the econometric estimations carried out with information from a survey of innovative firms in the region of Valencia in Spain. First, the results show that firm size and age matter in the decision to buy R&D services. Second, our results are consistent with the relevance that the literature gives to human capital in absorbing external knowledge. Third, innovation policy has a significant influence on the decision to acquire R&D services, particularly from universities and technology centres. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To assess the scholarly output of grants funded by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) that published knowledge relevant to the impact of health information technologies on patient safety and quality of care outcomes. We performed a bibliometric analysis of the identified scholarly articles, their journals, and citations. In addition, we performed a qualitative review of the full-text articles and grant documents. Papers published by AHRQ-funded investigators were retrieved from MEDLINE, journal impact factors were extracted from the 2010 Thompson Reuters Journal Citation Report, citations were retrieved from ISI's Web of Knowledge and Google Scholar. Seventy-two articles met the criteria for review. Most articles addressed one or more of AHRQ's outcome goals and focus priorities. The average impact factor for the journals was 4.005 (range: 0.654–28.899). The articles, and their respective grants, represented a broad range of health information technologies. This set of AHRQ-funded research projects addressed the goals and priorities of AHRQ, indicating notable contributions to the scientific knowledge base on the impact of information system use in healthcare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Hyperthermic isolated limb perfusion (HILP) with TNF-αα and melphalan has high response rates in patients with soft tissue sarcomas (STS) or melanomas of the limbs. Its effectiveness is based on the destructive effect of TNF-αα on the blood supply of the tumours. Shedding of soluble TNF-receptor (sTNF-R) negatively modulates the effects of TNF-αα, whereas hyperthermia (HT) induces shedding. Here, we investigated whether sTNF-R shedding in response to HT occurs during HILP. Material and methods: The serum levels of sTNFR-1 were measured in 23 patients with HILP by obtaining serum from the extracorporeal and central circuits. The samples were taken from the patients under normothermic (37°°C) and hyperthermic (39°°C) conditions. Additionally, cell cultures of HUVEC, human fibrosarcoma cells and peripheral blood cells were used to confirm the effects of HT on sTNF-R1 shedding by ELISA and western blot. Results: Under HT, levels of sTNF-R1 increased 23.5%% in the extracorporeal circuit, but this increase was not observed in the systemic circuit. However, we could not confirm this effect using the cell culture model, where cellular TNF-R1 and sTNF-R1 of culture supernatants, respectively, were not significantly different between NT and HT conditions. Conclusions: HT is associated with an increase of sTNF-R1 in the extracorporeal circuit of perfused limbs. Interestingly, HT does not exhibit the same effect on cells cultured in  vitro. Additional studies will be aimed at determining whether our findings have an impact in the clinic by analysing the relationship between TNF-R1 shedding and tumour response to HILP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is much evidence that climate is rapidly changing at a global scale, especially regarding mean annual temperatures, precipitations and evaporation. The consequences of this rapid environmental change on freshwater biota are still not clear, but undoubtedly they could be severe. Among the main effects of climate change, we can individuate the enhancement of water temperatures, particularly important for poikilothermic organisms, with the consequent diminution of dissolved oxygen, and the reduction of available habitats for most stenothermal organisms. Another consequence of climate change is the alteration of hydrologic cycles, with increasing intensity and frequency of extreme events such as droughts, especially in Southern Europe. This scenario could severely affect freshwater biota, especially in mid-latitude regions, such as the Italian peninsula: shifts in phenology, life cycles and distribution ranges are likely to be expected for many organisms, with the extinction of many sensitive species. In particular, species adapted to perennial and cold waters are likely to suffer reductions in their distribution range and also local extinctions, while more tolerant organisms may enlarge their distribution ranges. Global climate change may also promote and enhance invasions of alien species. In this work, concepts and hypotheses about the presumable impacts of climate change upon freshwater biota are reported, with examples and predictions related to the Italian situation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents descriptive data from surveys that probed the use of health information by Internet users in Australia and New Zealand. Using this data, the article also contributes to understanding of factors associated with a series of Internet health information use outcomes. Four hundred six respondents (151 Australians; 255 New Zealanders) had used the Internet for health information and were asked about emailing doctors, Internet searching, taking Internet information to the doctor and perceptions of Internet information reliability. Regression analyses were conducted to examine associations between key outcomes and independent variables. A bootstrap procedure was performed to select variables used in logistic regression models. Fifty-two percent of health Internet users had emailed their doctor. Few significant differences between Australian and New Zealand responses were found. Internet use for health information was below levels found in North American and European studies, but there was similar prevalence of emailing and presenting Internet information to doctors. Emailers were more likely to believe this improved communication with doctors (OR = 3.59; 95%CI 1.95, 6.61). Frequent Internet searchers were more likely to take Internet information to their doctor (OR = 2.41; 1.47, 3.92), and believe the Internet to be a more useful information source (OR = 2.47; 1.22, 5.03). Females were less likely to email their doctor (OR = 0.47; 0.26, 0.85). More educated respondents were more likely to email their doctor (OR = 1.99; 1.16, 3.39) and to check website credentials (OR = 2.61; 1.53, 4.43). This study suggests that there is a digital divide among health care Internet users. It shows that, for males, email could have health care advantages. Doctors may need to develop strategies to deal with patients presenting with Internet information, including how to source information and check its credibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In patients with prolonged episodes of neutropenia, infections are associated with significant mortality. The exact diagnostic yield of blood cultures in this high-risk population is still unclear. To assess the yield of blood cultures, the spectrum of pathogenic organisms and the influence of blood culture results on the therapeutic management, we retrospectively evaluated the results from 2520 blood cultures obtained from 126 consecutive patients with high-risk neutropenia. Bacterial pathogens were detected in 219 blood culture samples (8.7%) of which 172 were Gram-positive and 47 were Gram-negative bacteria. Fungal pathogens were found in 13 blood cultures. A higher rate of Gram-positive pathogens and of fungi was found in patients with central venous catheters. Pathogens were detected in 14.3% of blood cultures obtained before the institution of antibiotic treatment and in 7% of blood cultures obtained under antibiotic treatment. Treatment was modified in 116/232 (50%) of positive blood culture findings. In patients with high-risk neutropenia, blood cultures are a valid diagnostic tool, both in antibiotic-naive patients and in patients receiving antibiotic treatment, and provide important information for clinical decision making. The epidemiological data obtained are helpful for selecting empirical antibiotic treatment regimens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Torre A. On the role played by temporary geographical proximity in knowledge transmission, Regional Studies. This paper defends the thesis that geographical proximity remains essential for knowledge transfer, but not often implies the co-location of innovation and research activities. The need for geographical proximity now mostly affects certain stages of the process of production, research or development. Short- or medium-term visits are often sufficient for the partners to exchange the information needed for cooperation. The mobility of individuals makes it possible to implement this mechanism. Temporary geographical proximity implies a strong relation to space, but one that differs in nature from that described by the traditional approaches. [image omitted] Torre A. Role de la proximite geographique temporaire dans la transmission de la connaissance, Regional Studies. Dans cet article, nous defendons la these selon laquelle la proximite geographique demeure essentielle au transfert des connaissances mais qu'elle n'implique pas souvent la co-localisation d'activites d'innovation et de recherche. La necessite de la proximite geographique affecte surtout, aujourd'hui, certaines etapes des processus de production, de recherche et de developpement. Les visites a court ou moyen terme suffisent souvent aux partenaires pour echanger des informations necessaires a leur cooperation. La mobilite des individus permet de mettre en œuvre ce mecanisme. La proximite geographique temporaire induit une forte relation a l'espace mais une relation qui differe en nature de celle qui est decrite par les approches classiques. Proximite geographique Proximite organisee Ubiquite Agregats Torre A. Die Rolle der vorubergehenden geografischen Nahe zur Wissensubertragung, Regional Studies. In diesem Artikel verteidigen wir die These, dass eine geografische Nahe zur Wissensubertragung nach wie vor unverzichtbar ist, aber oft keinen gemeinsamen Standort der Innovations- und Forschungsarbeit voraussetzt. Die Notwendigkeit einer geografischen Nahe betrifft heute meistens bestimmte Phasen im Produktions-, Forschungs- oder Entwicklungsprozess. Oft sind kurze oder mittellange Besuche fur die Partner ausreichend, um die fur eine Zusammenarbeit benotigten Informationen auszutauschen. Die Mobilitat der einzelnen Personen macht eine Umsetzung dieses Mechanismus moglich. Eine vorubergehende geografische Nahe setzt eine enge Verbindung zum Raum voraus, deren Beschaffenheit jedoch von den Beschreibungen der traditionellen Ansatze abweicht. Geografische Nahe Organisierte Nahe Ubiquitat Cluster Torre A. El papel desempenado por la proximidad geografica temporal en la transmision de conocimiento, Regional Studies. En este articulo defendemos la tesis de que la proximidad geografica sigue siendo un factor fundamental para la transferencia de conocimientos aunque esto no suele implicar la ubicacion conjunta de las actividades de innovacion y las de investigacion. La necesidad de proximidad geografica ahora afecta sobre todo a ciertas fases del proceso de produccion, investigacion y desarrollo. Las visitas a corto o medio plazo son con frecuencia suficientes para que los socios intercambien la informacion que necesitan para cooperar. La movilidad de los individuos facilita la aplicacion de este mecanismo. La proximidad geografica temporal entrana una estrecha relacion en el espacio pero que difiere en naturaleza de la que se describe en enfoques tradicionales. Proximidad geografica Proximidad organizada Ubicuidad Agrupaciones [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three new structurally similar compounds in series 1[2] and 2 containing 12- and 10-vertex p-carborane units (A and B) were prepared. Their thermal properties were investigated in the pure state and compared to those of their carbocyclic analogues. Using several higher homologues in the series 1[n], clearing temperatures for the unknown 1[4] and 1[10] were predicted. Optical, dielectric and rotational viscosity parameters for carborane derivatives 1[2] and 2 and their cyclohexane analogies were obtained by extrapolation of values measured for 10% solutions in a standard nematic host. The observed trends were rationalised using computed molecular parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sources cited within this issue are presented including "Fighting AIDS among adolescent women: Effects of a public communication campaign in Brazil," by M. P. Porto, "Prisoners signify: A political discourse analysis of mental illness in a prison control unit," by K. G. Cloyes and "Attribution theory as a guide for post-crisis communication research," by W. T. Coombs.

The Dionysiac artists' currency on the Attic-weight standard issued at Teos was considered a panegyris currency, and was associated with the synoikismos and the organization of the city panegyris at Teos. A number of inscriptions from mainland Greece and Asia Minor provide evidence for the international currencies with which the artists preferred to be paid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dominant source of decoherence for an electron spin in a quantum dot is the hyperfine interaction with the surrounding bath of nuclear spins. The decoherence process may be slowed down by subjecting the electron spin to suitable sequences of external control pulses. We investigate the performance of a variety of dynamical decoupling protocols using exact numerical simulation. Emphasis is given to realistic pulse delays and the long-time limit, beyond the domain where available analytical approaches are guaranteed to work. Our results show that both deterministic and randomized protocols are capable to significantly prolong the electron coherence time, even when using control pulse separations substantially larger than what expected from the upper cutoff frequency of the coupling spectrum between the electron and the nuclear spins. In a realistic parameter range, the total width of such a coupling spectrum appears to be the physically relevant frequency scale affecting the overall quality of the decoupling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article briefly reviews the recent development in scanning tunneling microscope (STM) technology, namely fast STM, and mainly illustrates how this technology is continuing to expand and enter new scientific and technological territory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The need for strategies able to accurately manipulate quantum dynamics is ubiquitous in quantum control and quantum information processing. We investigate two scenarios where randomized dynamical decoupling techniques become more advantageous than standard deterministic methods in switching off unwanted dynamical evolution in a closed quantum system: when dealing with decoupling cycles which involve a large number of control actions and/or when seeking long-time quantum information storage. Highly effective hybrid decoupling schemes, which combine deterministic and stochastic features, are discussed, as well as the benefits of sequentially implementing a concatenated method, applied for short times, followed by a hybrid protocol, employed for longer times. A quantum register consisting of a chain of spin-1/2 particles interacting via the Heisenberg interaction is used as a model for the analysis throughout. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A four-channel device may enhance the sensitivity of electromyography (EMG). Determination of stimulation thresholds (STs) below 0.05 mA improves facial prognostic information after vestibular schwannoma (VS) surgery. To compare intraoperative observations with electromyographic data for predicting the immediate facial function outcome after VS surgery. A total of 111 VS patients operated on and intraoperatively monitored using four-channel facial EMG between October 2002 and September 2003 were included in this multicentre, prospective study. Mascular activity detection was performed in the frontal, orbicularis oculi, orbicularis oris and platysma muscles. Intraoperative observations were made concerning adhesion and nerve stretch, and facial function was graded (House–Brackmann classification) at postoperative Days 1 and 8. Facial function at postoperative Days 1 and 8 was related to the intraoperative nerve STs at the brainstem and in the adhesion zone (range 0.01–3 mA for a response > 100 µV). At postoperative Day 8, good facial function (Grades 1 or 2) was observed in 93% of cases for STs in the adhesion zone of 0.01–0.04 mA, 85% for STs of 0.05–0.3 mA and 79% for STs > 0.3 mA. These STs were related to the degree of tumor adhesion and not to the nerve stretch. The maximal EMG response was detected in the frontal or platysma muscles in 26% of cases, and in the orbicularis oris and orbicularis oculi muscles in 74%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of mandibular fixation on activity of the swallowing-related muscles during swallowing. Electromyograms in the masseter muscle, orbicularis oris superior muscle, suprahyoid muscles, and infrahyoid muscles were recorded from seven healthy humans. Electromyographic activity during swallowing was compared between an experimental condition with mandibular fix­ation and an experimental condition without such fixation. Duration of the swallowing phase was prolonged with mandibular fixation. Mandibular fixation significantly delayed the onset of masseter muscle activity­ during swallowing, although no other muscle groups showed a delay.­ The amount of muscle activity during swallowing was not significantly different between the two experimental conditions in any of the muscle groups. In conclusion, mandibular fixation decreases the masseter muscle activity at the initial phase of swallowing. This may be due to decreased need of the masseter muscle activity against force pulling the mandible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A prospective, open label, randomized, multicentre study was conducted, comparing the efficacy and safety of cefepime with that of imipenem-cilastatin for the management of febrile neutropenia in patients with haematological malignancies. Furthermore, the safety of early discontinuation of antibiotic therapy in patients with fever of undetermined origin (FUO) was assessed. A total of 180 patients with 207 febrile episodes were randomized at start of fever (105 episodes for cefepime and 102 episodes for imipenem). The 2 groups were comparable in terms of age, gender, underlying malignancy, prior transplantation, and presence of central venous catheters. All patients were neutropenic at inclusion with median absolute neutrophil count (ANC) 0.1×109/(range 0-1×109/l), and ANC ≤0.1×109/l in 77% of included patients. The mean duration of neutropenia, with ANC <0.5×109/l was 6.2 d. Febrile episodes were classified as microbiologically documented infection (47%), FUO (43%), or clinically documented infection (10%). At final evaluation 1-2 weeks after completion of antibiotic therapy, monotherapy success rates were 40% and 51% in the cefepime and imipenem-cilastatin groups respectively (p = 0.33). The 4-week overall mortality rate was 5%. Three (2%) of the cefepime treated patients and 4 (3%) of the imipenem-cilastatin treated patients died as a result of infection. Adverse events directly related to antibiotic treatment were uncommon and did not differ between groups. Early discontinuation of antibiotic therapy in 31 patients with FUO 48 h after defervescence was not associated with an increased rate of fever relapse or mortality compared with a subgroup of 29 patients where therapy was continued. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The competitiveness of firms and regions is increasingly dependent on their capabilities to organise knowledge processes that unfold between different knowledge providers. In this article it is argued that this knowledge management in networks is a cognitive process that uses different dimensions of proximity. As much of the knowledge required is 'tacit' in character, 'embedded' social interaction becomes crucial. There are, however, conflicts of interest in business networks. The organisation of knowledge processes thus becomes a complex governance task that depends to a large extent on the characteristics of the learning processes of the sectors involved. This paper offers some empirical evidence from the service sector with the case of M&A activities and from the manufacturing sector with the case of automobile design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Encouraged by theoretical predictions that nematic phases formed from V-shaped compounds could be biaxial, shape-persistent phenylene ethynylene arms linked by 1,3-phenylene, 4,40-diphenylenemethane and 3,6-fluorenone units have been synthesised. Crystallisation and micro-segregation is prevented by 2,5-alkoxy substitution on the middle benzene ring of the arms. The specific molecular engineering, i.e. variation of peripheral substituents (H, CN) and different lengths of lateral alkoxy chains, lead to enantiotropic nematic liquid crystals over a wide temperature range for fluorenone containing materials II3d and mixtures of II3d with non-mesogenic II3b. These mesophases solidify at ambient temperature and form nematic glasses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper discusses key sectors determination, sectoral aggregation and the reconciliation problem. These notions well known for national IO tables, and matrices are also very important in regional IO-tables. Therefore this contribution is concerned with these notions at the regional level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]