bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recurrent network model for learning goal-directed sequences through reverse replay
Authors: Haga Tatsuya , Fukai Tomoki
Published: July 2018

Reverse replay of hippocampal place cells occurs frequently at rewarded locations, suggesting its contribution to goal-directed path learning. Symmetric spike-timing dependent plasticity (STDP) in CA3 likely potentiates recurrent synapses for both forward (start to goal) and reverse (goal to start) replays during sequential activation of place cells. However, how reverse replay selectively strengthens forward synaptic pathway is unclear. Here, we show computationally that firing sequences bias synaptic transmissions to the opposite direction of propagation under symmetric STDP in the co-presence of short-term synaptic depression or afterdepolarization. We demonstrate that significant biases are created in biologically realistic simulation settings, and this bias enables reverse replay to enhance goal-directed spatial memory on a W-maze. Further, we show that essentially the same mechanism works in a two-dimensional open field. Our model for the first time provides the mechanistic account for the way reverse replay contributes to hippocampal sequence learning for reward-seeking spatial navigation.
Structural basis of malodour precursor transport in the human axilla
Authors: Minhas Gurdeep S , Bawdon Daniel , Herman Reyme , Rudden Michelle , Stone Andrew P , James A Gordon , Thomas Gavin H , Newstead Simon
Published: July 2018

Mammals produce volatile odours that convey different types of societal information. In Homo sapiens, this is now recognised as body odour, a key chemical component of which is the sulphurous thioalcohol, 3-methyl-3-sulfanylhexan-1-ol (3M3SH). Volatile 3M3SH is produced in the underarm as a result of specific microbial activity, which act on the odourless dipeptide-containing malodour precursor molecule, S-Cys-Gly-3M3SH, secreted in the axilla (underarm) during colonisation. The mechanism by which these bacteria recognise S-Cys-Gly-3M3SH and produce body odour is still poorly understood. Here we report the structural and biochemical basis of bacterial transport of S-Cys-Gly-3M3SH by Staphylococcus hominis, which is converted to the sulphurous thioalcohol component 3M3SH in the bacterial cytoplasm, before being released into the environment. Knowledge of the molecular basis of precursor transport, essential for body odour formation, provides a novel opportunity to design specific inhibitors of malodour production in humans.
Single-color, ratiometric biosensors for detecting signaling activities in live cells
Authors: Ross Brian L , Tenner Brian , Markwardt Michele L , Zviman Adam , Shi Guoli , Kerr Jaclyn P , Snell Nicole E , McFarland Jennifer J , Mauban Joseph R , Ward Christopher W , Rizzo Megan A , Zhang Jin
Published: July 2018

Genetically encoded fluorescent biosensors have revolutionized the study of signal transduction by enabling the real-time tracking of signaling activities in live cells. Investigating the interaction between signaling networks has become increasingly important to understanding complex cellular phenomena, necessitating an update of the biosensor toolkit to allow monitoring and perturbing multiple activities simultaneously in the same cell. We therefore developed a new class of fluorescent biosensors based on homo-FRET, deemed FLuorescence Anisotropy REporters (FLAREs), which combine the multiplexing ability of single-color sensors with a quantitative, ratiometric readout. Using an array of color variants, we were able to demonstrate multiplexed imaging of three activity reporters simultaneously in the same cell. We further demonstrate the compatibility of FLAREs for use with optogenetic tools as well as intravital two-photon imaging.
A multispecies coalescent model for quantitative traits
Authors: Mendes Fábio K , Fuentes-González Jesualdo A , Schraiber Joshua G , Hahn Matthew W
Published: July 2018

We present a multispecies coalescent model for quantitative traits that allows for evolutionary inferences at micro- and macroevolutionary scales. A major advantage of this model is its ability to incorporate genealogical discordance underlying a quantitative trait. We show that discordance causes a decrease in the expected trait covariance between more closely related species relative to more distantly related species. If unaccounted for, this outcome can lead to an overestimation of a trait’s evolutionary rate, to a decrease in its phylogenetic signal, and to errors when examining shifts in mean trait values. The number of loci controlling a quantitative trait appears to be irrelevant to all trends reported, and discordance also affected discrete, threshold traits. Our model and analyses point to the conditions under which different methods should fare better or worse, in addition to indicating current and future approaches that can mitigate the effects of discordance.
We are not so special
Authors: Lewis Zachary R , Dunn Casey W
Published: July 2018

New sequence data from choanoflagellates improves our understanding of the genetic changes that occurred along the branch of the evolutionary tree that gave rise to animals.
Depiction of Women as the Primary Architects of their own Oppression: A Masculinist Critique of El Saadawi’s Woman at Point Zero
Authors: Abdulwaheed Idris Abdulrahman , Talif Rosli , Ali Termizi Arbaayah , Kaur Jujar Hardev
Published: July 2018

This paper focuses on the presentation of women oppression and emancipation in Nawal El Saadawi’s novel, Woman at Point Zero. The novel is specifically a call and an appeal to the women in her Egyptian society and the world at large on the need to revisit their activities and contribution toward the oppression, suppression, molestation, and brutality of their fellow women. Nawal El Saadawi presents with unique clarity, the unpleasant experience women are subjected to in her male-dominated society (Egypt). The novel aesthetically captures the oppression, sexual harassment, domestic aggression, and intimidation that the Egyptian women are subjected to in her patriarchal social milieu. Through a Masculinist study of the text, this paper not only submits that women create sa conducive atmosphere for the unhappiness of their own kinds but also subverts the author’s proposition of the way forward for the Egyptian women who are disenchanted under the atmosphere that is besieged with unfair treatment of the women. This essay unambiguously argues that El Saadawi’s understanding of women emancipation from the persistent violence on the women is outrageously momentary and unsatisfactory. Indeed, the novel has succeeded in subverting the stereotypical representation of the women as weak, passive, and physically helpless yet, the cherished long-lasting emancipation expected from her oppressed women could not be fully achieved. The novelist portrays a resilient and revolutionary heroine whose understanding of women liberation leaves every reader disconcerted. The paper examines the oppression that the heroine, Firdaus suffers from men and her fellow women and how she eventually achieved a momentary emancipation.
The Eternal Legacy of the American Salesman
Authors: Unnisa Warda Wahaj
Published: July 2018

Arthur Miller’s play “The Death of A Salesman” and David Mamet’s play “Glengarry Glen Ross” are both set decades apart and the American political and historical situation is very different in both the plays yet they share the same underlying factor -an individualistic capitalistic economy which had become more brutal over the years leaving no scope for the weak and vulnerable. These plays clearly showcase the vulnerabilities, stress, anxiety and depression of the salesmen and the disillusionment that affects them and those around them which has remained unchanged over the decades. By using the salesmen and their lives the writers reflect the lives of most modern day Americans.
The Study of Revenge Tragedies and Their Roots
Authors: Askarzadeh Torghabeh Rajabali
Published: July 2018

Tragedy has its roots in man’s life. Tragedies appeared all around the world in the stories of all nations. In western drama, it is written that tragedy first appeared in the literature of ancient Greek drama and later in Roman drama. This literary genre later moved into the sixteenth century and Elizabethan period that was called the golden age of drama. In this period, we can clearly see that this literary genre is divided into different kinds. This genre is later moved into seventeenth century. The writer of the article has benefited from a historical approach to study tragedy, tragedy writers and its different kinds in the Sixteenth and Seventeenth centuries. The author has also presented the chief features and characteristics of tragedies. The novelty of the article is the study of Spanish tragedy and its influences on revenge tragedies written by Shakespeare and other tragedy writers. Throughout the article, the author has also included some of the most important dramatists and tragedy writers of these periods including Thomas Kyd, William Shakespeare, John Marston, George Chapman, Tourneur and John Webster.
Politeness and Speech acts of Refusal and Complaint among Jordanian Undergraduate Students
Authors: Kreishan Lana
Published: July 2018

This study investigated the refusal and complaint speech act strategies employed by Jordanian undergraduate EFL learners. Refusal and complaint data were collected using a discourse completion test and role-plays. The findings revealed that, as non-native speakers, the respondents preferred to use indirect semantic formulas. The most frequently used refusal strategies involved an explanation or excuse, apology, negative ability, postponement or adjuncts to refusals. Conveying hints, requests, and annoyance constituted the preferred strategies for expressing complaints. The Jordanian students utilized these strategies quite often because the strategies are less direct and more polite. The analysis revealed similarities between the strategies used by the sample EFL learners and the strategies used by native English speakers. Because speech acts depend on standard cultural norms and practices, it is important for EFL learners to understand English-speaking social settings in order to avoid pragmatic failure and miscommunication. EFL instructors should therefore emphasize linguistic pragmatics for learners to assimilate into an English speaking cultural environment and maintain clear and unambiguous communication.
Effects of estrogens and antiestrogens on gonadal sex differentiation and embryonic development in the domestic fowl (Gallus gallus domesticus)
Authors: Jessl Luzie , Lenz Rebecca , Massing Fabian G. , Scheider Jessica , Oehlmann Jörg
Published: July 2018

Since it is known that environmental contaminants have the potential to cause endocrine disorders in humans and animals, there is an urgent need for in vivo tests to assess possible effects of these endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs). Although there is no standardized guideline, the avian embryo has proven to be particularly promising as it responds sensitively to a number of EDCs preferentially impacting the reproductive axis. In the present study we examined the effects of in ovo exposure to fulvestrant and tamoxifen as antiestrogenic model compounds and co-exposure to both substances and the potent estrogen 17α-ethinylestradiol (EE2) regarding sex differentiation and embryonic development of the domestic fowl (Gallus gallus domesticus). The substances were injected into the yolk of fertilized eggs on embryonic day 1. On embryonic day 19 sex genotype and phenotype were determined, followed by gross morphological and histological examination of the gonads. Sole EE2-treatment (20 ng/g egg) particularly affected male gonads and resulted in an increased formation of female-like gonadal cortex tissue and a reduction of seminiferous tubules. In ovo exposure to tamoxifen (0.1/1/10 µg/g egg) strongly impaired the differentiation of female gonads, led to a significant size reduction of the left ovary and induced malformations of the ovarian cortex, while fulvestrant (0.1/1/10 µg/g egg) did not affect sexual differentiation. However, both antiestrogens were able to antagonize the feminizing effects of EE2in genetic males when administered simultaneously. Since both estrogens and antiestrogens induce concentration-dependent morphological alterations of the sex organs, the chick embryo can be regarded as a promising model for the identification of chemicals with estrogenic and antiestrogenic activity.
Genetic polymorphisms and forensic efficiency of 19 X-chromosomal STR loci for Xinjiang Mongolian population
Authors: Chen Ling , Guo Yuxin , Xiao Cheng , Wu Weibin , Lan Qiong , Fang Yating , Chen Jiangang , Zhu Bofeng
Published: July 2018

Aim

X-chromosomal short tandem repeat (X-STR) loci are playing an increasingly important role in some complex kinship cases in recent years. To investigate the forensic efficiency of X-STRs of Mongolian minority group from Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China, and further depict the genetic relationship among Xinjiang Mongolians and other populations, 267 blood samples from unrelated healthy Xinjiang Mongolians were amplified by an AGCU X-19 STR kit.

Results

No deviations for all 19 X-STR loci were observed from the Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium after Bonferroni correction (p> 0.0026) in female samples. The most frequent allele was allele 10 at locus DXS10164 with the frequency 0.5663. The polymorphism information content values of the 19 X-STR loci were more than 0.5 with the highest polymorphism at the locus DXS10135. The cumulative power of discrimination were 0.99999999999999999999988761005481 in females and 0.999999999999903 in males, respectively; and the cumulative mean exclusion chances were 0.9999999969738068321121 in duos and 0.999999999998952 in trios, respectively. The seven linkage groups were extremely informative, with all the haplotype diversities greater than 0.9487. No linkage disequilibrium was observed for a significance level of 0.00029 (p= 0.05/171) after Bonferroni correction. TheDAdistances, multidimensional scaling plot and phylogenetic tree based on the 11 overlapping X-STR loci all presented that the Xinjiang Mongolian population was genetically different from other Asian populations, including the Mongolian population from Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China.

Conclusion

This study indicated that the 19 X-STR multiplex PCR system was of high utility value for both forensic practices and population genetic research in Xinjiang Mongolian group.
New insights into chasmosaurine (Dinosauria: Ceratopsidae) skulls from the Upper Cretaceous (Campanian) of Alberta, and an update on the distribution of accessory frill fenestrae in Chasmosaurinae
Authors: Campbell James A. , Ryan Michael J. , Schröder-Adams Claudia J. , Evans David C. , Holmes Robert B.
Published: July 2018

Chasmosaurine ceratopsids are well documented from the Upper Cretaceous (Campanian) Dinosaur Park Formation (DPF) of southern Alberta and Saskatchewan, and includeChasmosaurus belli,Chasmosaurus russelli,Mercuriceratops gemini,Vagaceratops irvinensis, and material possibly referable toSpiclypeus shipporum.In this study, we describe three recently prepared chasmosaurine skulls (CMN 8802, CMN 34829, and TMP 2011.053.0046) from the DPF, and age-equivalent sediments, of Alberta. CMN 8802 and CMN 34829 are both referred toChasmosaurussp. based on the size and shape of the preserved parietal fenestrae. TMP 2011.053.0046 is referred toVagaceratopssp. based on the position and orientation of its preserved epiparietals. Each skull is characterized by the presence of an accessory fenestra in either the squamosal (CMN 8802 and TMP 2011.053.0046) or parietal (CMN 34829). Such fenestrae are common occurrences in chasmosaurine squamosals, but are rare in the parietal portion of the frill. The origin of the fenestrae in these three specimens is unknown, but they do not appear to exhibit evidence of pathology, as has been previously interpreted for the accessory fenestrae in most other chasmosaurine frills. These three skulls contribute to a better understanding of the morphological variation, and geographic and stratigraphic distribution, of chasmosaurines within the DPF and age-equivalent sediments in Western Canada.
Distribution and ecological segregation on regional and microgeographic scales of the diploidCentaurea asperaL., the tetraploidC. seridisL., and their triploid hybrids (Compositae)
Authors: Garmendia Alfonso , Merle Hugo , Ruiz Pablo , Ferriol Maria
Published: July 2018

Although polyploidy is considered a ubiquitous process in plants, the establishment of new polyploid species may be hindered by ecological competition with parental diploid taxa. In such cases, the adaptive processes that result in the ecological divergence of diploids and polyploids can lead to their co-existence. In contrast, non-adaptive processes can lead to the co-existence of diploids and polyploids or to differentiated distributions, particularly when the minority cytotype disadvantage effect comes into play. Although large-scale studies of cytotype distributions have been widely conducted, the segregation of sympatric cytotypes on fine scales has been poorly studied. We analysed the spatial distribution and ecological requirements of the tetraploidCentaurea seridisand the diploidCentaurea asperain east Spain on a large scale, and also microspatially in contact zones where both species hybridise and give rise to sterile triploid hybrids. On the fine scale, the position of eachCentaureaindividual was recorded along with soil parameters, accompanying species cover and plant richness. On the east Spanish coast, a slight latitudinal gradient was found. TetraploidC. seridisindividuals were located northerly and diploidC. asperaindividuals southerly. Tetraploids were found only in the habitats with strong anthropogenic disturbance. In disturbed locations with well-developed semi-fixed or fixed dunes, diploids and tetraploids could co-exist and hybridise. However, on a fine scale, although taxa were spatially segregated in contact zones, they were not ecologically differentiated. This finding suggests the existence of non-adaptive processes that have led to their co-existence. Triploid hybrids were closer to diploid allogamous mothers (C. aspera) than to tetraploid autogamous fathers (C. seridis). This may result in a better ability to compete for space in the tetraploid minor cytotype, which might facilitate its long-term persistence.
¿Por qué los adolescentes juegan videojuegos? Propuesta de una escala de motivos para jugar videojuegos a partir de la teoría de usos y gratificaciones
Authors:   Universidad de Salamanca (España), González-Vázquez Alejandro , Igartua Juan José ,   Universidad de Salamanca (España)
Published: July 2018

Este artículo propone una escala de motivos para jugar videojuegos en adolescentes, adaptada al castellano a partir de los estudios previos de Selnow (1984), Wigand et al. (1985), Raney et al. (2006) y Sherry et al. (2006). Se utilizaron datos obtenidos a partir de 400 cuestionarios aplicados a estudiantes españoles de entre 14 y 20 años. Se ha comprobado la fiabilidad del modelo mediante el análisis factorial confirmatorio y de consistencia interna, así como la validez de criterio y constructo relacionando los cuatro factores del modelo con variables de consumo y rasgos de personalidad, respectivamente.
ESTUDO DE PROPOSTAS DIDÁTICAS PARA O CONCEITO DE VARIABILIDADE ESTATÍSTICA:UTILIZANDO 'PAPEL E LÁPIS' E O SOFTWARE 'R'”
Authors: Oliveira Júnior Ailton Paulo de , Pereira Flávia Helena
Published: July 2018

O presente trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar o entendimento de alunos da Educação Superior do conceito de variabilidade estatística utilizando a representação gráfica das distribuições de frequência e dos conceitos das medidas de tendência central e de dispersão. Foram utilizadas duas metodologias de ensino (“utilizando papel milimetrado e lápis” e “utilizando o software R”) em sequências didáticas para a apresentação dos conceitos básicos introdutórios de medidas que são necessárias para melhor entendimento da distribuição de frequência. Verificou-se que o uso do software foi aceito pelos participantes e que também é importante considerar o uso do papel e lápis na construção dos gráficos. Ao realizar comparações de dois ou mais conjuntos de dados e examinar seus gráficos na mesma escala permitiu especular de que forma esta variação explica os dados. O grau de compreensão dos participantes sobre a variabilidade convergiu para a maneira pela qual perceberam a distribuição de dados.
UMA SEQUÊNCIA DIDÁTICA SOBRE PERFUMES E ESSÊNCIAS PARA O ENSINO DE FUNÇÕES ORGÂNICAS OXIGENADAS.
Authors: Cruz Maria Eduarda De Brito , Simões Neto José Euzebio
Published: July 2018

Este trabalho buscou analisar de que forma uma sequência didática sobre perfumes e essências pode auxiliar no aprendizado dos conceitos de funções orgânicas oxigenadas. A sequência foi elaborada em seis momentos com base nas ideias de Méheut, a partir da relação entre as dimensões epistemológicas e pedagógicas. A proposta foi aplicada em uma turma da 3ª série do Ensino Médio em uma escola estadual de Pernambuco, em Serra Talhada, sertão do Pajeú. Utilizamos como instrumentos de coleta de dados questionários, filmagem e as produções dos estudantes nas atividades desenvolvidas. Nossos resultados direcionam um melhor entendimento sobre os conteúdos de funções orgânicas oxigenadas, evidenciado pelas construções durante as atividades relacionadas a sequência. Houve indícios de uma possível validação externa e interna da sequência, a partir da comparação dos resultados obtidos dos questionários de concepções prévias com a resolução do estudo de caso durante o sexto momento da sequência.
Free fatty acid receptor 4 agonists induce lysophosphatidic acid receptor 1 (LPA1) desensitization independent of LPA1 internalization and heterodimerization
Authors: Meizoso‐Huesca Aldo , Villegas‐Comonfort Sócrates , Romero‐Ávila M. Teresa , García‐Sáinz J. Adolfo
Published: July 2018

The crosstalk between the free fatty acid receptor FFA4 and the lysophosphatidic acid receptor LPA1 seems to be of pathophysiological importance. We explored this crosstalk employing co‐expression of fluorescent protein‐tagged receptors. FFA4 activation induces functional desensitization of LPA1 receptors and phosphorylation of both receptors. LPA1 activation induces phosphorylation of LPA1, but not of FFA4, and induces internalization of both receptors into heterogeneous types of vesicles. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) induces internalization of FFA4 but not of LPA1. Fatty acid‐induced FFA4‐LPA1 interaction was observed using Förster resonance energy transfer and co‐immunoprecipitation. Such interaction took place after desensitization was already established. Data indicate that FFA4 activation induces LPA1 desensitization in an internalization‐independent process and that complex cellular processes participate in the crosstalk of these receptors.
Dynamically Tunable Dry Adhesion via Subsurface Stiffness Modulation
Authors: Tatari Milad , Mohammadi Nasab Amir , Turner Kevin T. , Shan Wanliang
Published: July 2018

Tunable dry adhesion has a range of applications, including transfer printing, climbing robots, and gripping in automated manufacturing processes. Here, a novel concept to achieve dynamically tunable dry adhesion via modulation of the stiffness of subsurface mechanical elements is introduced and demonstrated. A composite post structure, consisting of an elastomer shell and a core with a stiffness that can be tuned via application of electrical voltage, is fabricated. In the nonactivated state, the core is stiff and the effective adhesion strength between the composite post and contact surface is high. Activation of the core via application of electrical voltage reduces the stiffness of the core, resulting in a change in the stress distribution and driving force for delamination at the interface and, thus a reduction in the effective adhesion strength. The adhesion of composite posts with a range of dimensions is characterized and activation of the core is shown to reduce the adhesion by as much as a factor of 6. The experimentally observed reduction in adhesion is primarily due to the change in stiffness of the core. However, the activation of the core also results in heating of the interface and this plays a secondary role in the adhesion change.
III–V Semiconductor Single Nanowire Solar Cells: A Review
Authors: Li Ziyuan , Tan Hark Hoe , Jagadish Chennupati , Fu Lan
Published: July 2018

III–V semiconductor nanowires have gained intensive attention for solar cell applications due to their unique geometrical, optical, and electrical properties, as well as improved accessibility to a wider range of alloy compositions (and thus tunable bandgaps) and substrates (such as Si), which allows further exploration and implementation of various tandem solar cell designs to broaden and more efficiently harvest the absorption of the solar radiation. Herein, the development of this field with emphasis on single nanowire‐based solar cells is reviewed. First, nanowire synthesis methods are introduced, followed by important aspects of single nanowire fabrication and design consideration for high power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) in terms of light absorption and charge carrier separation and collection. Then, the reported nanowire solar cell performance based on different III–V semiconductor nanowire materials and structures is presented and analyzed. Finally, the strategies toward high efficiency and low cost solar cells are discussed.
Recent Progress on Circularly Polarized Luminescent Materials for Organic Optoelectronic Devices
Authors: Han Jianmei , Guo Song , Lu Hu , Liu Shujuan , Zhao Qiang , Huang Wei
Published: July 2018

Due to the characteristics of optical rotation, selective emission of polarized light, and circular dichroism, circularly polarized luminescent materials have aroused extensive attentions, and they have exhibited wide optoelectronic applications, such as optical data storage, liquid crystal display, and backlights in 3D displays. Here, the research progress of circularly polarized luminescent materials for organic optoelectronic devices is summarized. First, the definition and measurement of the circularly polarized light, such as optical rotatory dispersion, circular dichroism, and circularly polarized luminescence, are systematically introduced. Subsequently, the design strategies for various kinds of circularly polarized luminescent materials, including luminescent lanthanide and transition‐metal complexes, small organic luminophores, conjugated polymers, supramolecules, and liquid crystals are summarized. These materials exhibit circularly polarized luminescence with different magnitudes of luminescence dissymmetry values (glum). They are further applied in optoelectronic devices with excellent performance, and the influence factors on the glum values of these materials are presented in detail. Finally, the current opportunities and challenges in this rapidly growing research field are discussed systematically. The circularly polarized luminescent materials with large glum and high luminescence efficiency are very promising for applications in organic optoelectronic fields.
Optoelectronic Properties in Near‐Infrared Colloidal Heterostructured Pyramidal “Giant” Core/Shell Quantum Dots
Authors: Tong Xin , Kong Xiang‐Tian , Wang Chao , Zhou Yufeng , Navarro‐Pardo Fabiola , Barba David , Ma Dongling , Sun Shuhui , Govorov Alexander O. , Zhao Haiguang , Wang Zhiming M. , Rosei Federico
Published: July 2018

Colloidal heterostructured quantum dots (QDs) are promising candidates for next‐generation optoelectronic devices. In particular, “giant” core/shell QDs (g‐QDs) can be engineered to exhibit outstanding optical properties and high chemical/photostability for the fabrication of high‐performance optoelectronic devices. Here, the synthesis of heterostructured CuInSexS2−x (CISeS)/CdSeS/CdS g‐QDs with pyramidal shape by using a facile two‐step method is reported. The CdSeS/CdS shell is demonstrated to have a pure zinc blend phase other than typical wurtzite phase. The as‐obtained heterostructured g‐QDs exhibit near‐infrared photoluminescence (PL) emission (≈830 nm) and very long PL lifetime (in the microsecond range). The pyramidal g‐QDs exhibit a quasi‐type II band structure with spatial separation of electron–hole wave function, suggesting an efficient exciton extraction and transport, which is consistent with theoretical calculations. These heterostructured g‐QDs are used as light harvesters to fabricate a photoelectrochemical cell, exhibiting a saturated photocurrent density as high as ≈5.5 mA cm−2 and good stability under 1 sun illumination (AM 1.5 G, 100 mW cm−2). These results are an important step toward using heterostructured pyramidal g‐QDs for prospective applications in solar technologies.
Near‐Infrared‐Plasmonic Energy Upconversion in a Nonmetallic Heterostructure for Efficient H2 Evolution from Ammonia Borane
Authors: Zhang Zhenyi , Liu Yang , Fang Yurui , Cao Baosheng , Huang Jindou , Liu Kuichao , Dong Bin
Published: July 2018

Plasmonic metal nanostructures have been widely used to enhance the upconversion efficiency of the near‐infrared (NIR) photons into the visible region via the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) effect. However, the direct utilization of low‐cost nonmetallic semiconductors to both concentrate and transfer the NIR‐plasmonic energy in the upconversion system remains a significant challenge. Here, a fascinating process of NIR‐plasmonic energy upconversion in Yb3+/Er3+‐doped NaYF4 nanoparticles (NaYF4:Yb‐Er NPs)/W18O49 nanowires (NWs) heterostructures, which can selectively enhance the upconversion luminescence by two orders of magnitude, is demonstrated. Combined with theoretical calculations, it is proposed that the NIR‐excited LSPR of W18O49 NWs is the primary reason for the enhanced upconversion luminescence of NaYF4:Yb‐Er NPs. Meanwhile, this plasmon‐enhanced upconversion luminescence can be partly absorbed by the W18O49 NWs to re‐excite its higher energy LSPR, thus leading to the selective enhancement of upconversion luminescence for the NaYF4:Yb‐Er/W18O49 heterostructures. More importantly, based on this process of plasmonic energy transfer, an NIR‐driven catalyst of NaYF4:Yb‐Er NPs@W18O49 NWs quasi‐core/shell heterostructure, which exhibits a ≈35‐fold increase in the catalytic H2 evolution from ammonia borane (BH3NH3) is designed and synthesized. This work provides insight on the development of nonmetallic plasmon‐sensitized optical materials that can potentially be applied in photocatalysis, optoelectronic, and photovoltaic devices.
Einfluss der Probekörpergeometrie auf die Ergebnisse von Druckfestigkeitsprüfungen an ultrahochfestem Beton
Authors: Riedel Philipp , Leutbecher Torsten , Piotrowski Siemon , Heese Christian
Published: July 2018

Der Nachweis der Konformität ultrahochfester Betone (UHFB), die künftig in der im Entwurf befindlichen DAfStb‐Richtlinie „Ultrahochfester Beton“ geregelt sein werden, erfordert Formfaktoren, die eine Umrechnung zwischen den an UHFB‐Probekörpern unterschiedlicher Form und Größe erhaltenen Druckfestigkeiten erlauben. Bisher fehlten belastbare Versuchsergebnisse, auf deren Grundlage die Festlegung allgemeingültiger Formfaktoren zielsicher hätte erfolgen können. Daher wurde im Rahmen eines vom Deutschen Ausschuss für Stahlbeton geförderten Forschungsvorhabens der Einfluss der Probekörpergeometrie auf die Ergebnisse von Druckfestigkeitsprüfungen an normal‐, hoch‐ und ultrahochfesten Betonen experimentell untersucht. Die mittleren Zylinderdruckfestigkeiten der einzelnen Serien betrugen zwischen ca. 30 N/mm2 und 200 N/mm2. Mit Größtkorndurchmessern von 0,5 mm, 3 mm, 5 mm und 8 mm deckten die UHFB‐Systeme den Anwendungsbereich der zukünftigen DAfStb‐Richtlinie weitgehend ab. Neben Zylindern mit h/d [mm] = 300/150 und Würfeln mit einer Kantenlänge d = 150 mm, anhand deren charakteristischer Druckfestigkeit die Klassifizierung von UHFB erfolgen soll, wurden auch Zylinder mit h/d [mm] = 200/100 und Würfel mit einer Kantenlänge d = 100 mm untersucht. Die im Entwurf der DAfStb‐Richtlinie „Ultrahochfester Beton“ vorgenommene Klassifizierung von UHFB in die Festigkeitsklassen C130/140, C150/155 und C175/180 spiegelt den in den Versuchen beobachteten geringen Unterschied zwischen Zylinder‐ und Würfeldruckfestigkeit angemessen wider.
First‐line therapy for post‐traumatic stress disorder: A systematic review of cognitive behavioural therapy and psychodynamic approaches
Authors: Paintain Emma , Cassidy Simon
Published: July 2018

Background

Despite evidence supporting cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)‐based interventions as the most effective approach for treating post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in randomised control trials, alternative treatment interventions are often used in clinical practice. Psychodynamic (PDT)‐based interventions are one example of such preferred approaches, this is despite comparatively limited available evidence supporting their effectiveness for treating PTSD.

Aims

Existing research exploring effective therapeutic interventions for PTSD includes trauma‐focused CBT involving exposure techniques. The present review sought to establish the treatment efficacy of CBT and PDT approaches and considers the potential impact of selecting PDT‐based techniques over CBT‐based techniques for the treatment of PTSD.

Results

The evidence reviewed provided examples supporting PDT‐based therapy as an effective treatment for PTSD, but confirmed CBT as more effective in the treatment of this particular disorder. Comparable dropout rates were reported for both treatment approaches, suggesting that relative dropout rate should not be a pivotal factor in the selection of a PDT approach over CBT for treatment of PTSD.

Conclusion/Implications

The need to routinely observe evidence‐based recommendations for effective treatment of PTSD is highlighted and factors undermining practitioner engagement with CBT‐based interventions for the treatment of PTSD are identified.
Pumilol, a Diterpenoid with a Rare Strobane Skeleton from Pinus pumila (Pinaceae)
Authors: Langat Moses K. , Helfenstein Andreas , Horner Claire , Tammela Päivi , Hokkanen Heikki , Izotov Denis , Mulholland Dulcie A.
Published: July 2018

Pumilol (1), a strobane diterpenoid, reported herein for the first time, was isolated from the bark of Pinus pumila (Pall.) Regel (Siberian Dwarf Pine or Japanese Stone Pine), along with 17 known compounds including serratane triterpenoids, not previously reported from this species, and four ferulate derivatives. The absolute configuration of pumilol was established using HR‐ESI‐MS, NMR, the DP4+ probabilities and by comparison of the experimental and calculated electronic circular dichroism (ECD) spectra. Labda‐8(17),13‐dien‐15‐oic acid (4), bornyl (E)‐4‐hydroxycinnamate (14) and bornyl (E)‐ferulate (15) showed activity against S. aureus and/or E. faecalis with MIC90 values 12.5 – 50 μm.
DNA Primer Extension with Cyclopropenylated 7‐Deaza‐2′‐deoxyadenosine and Efficient Bioorthogonal Labeling in Vitro and in Living Cells
Authors: Ploschik Damian , Rönicke Franziska , Beike Hanna , Strasser Ralf , Wagenknecht Hans‐Achim
Published: July 2018

A deoxyadenosine triphosphate (dATP) analogue for DNA labeling was synthesized with the 1‐methylcyclopropene (1MCP) group at the 7‐position of 7‐deaza‐2′‐deoxyadenosine and applied for primer extension experiments. The real‐time kinetic data reveals that this 1MCP‐modified dATP analogue is incorporated into DNA much faster than that of the similarly 1MCP‐modified deoxyuridine triphosphate (dUTP) analogue. The postsynthetic fluorescent labeling of these oligonucleotides works efficiently according to PAGE analysis, and can be applied for immobilization of a functional antibody on a surface. Site‐specific labeling at two different positions in DNA was achieved and the bioorthogonality of the postsynthetic fluorescent labeling was demonstrated in living HeLa cells.
Fingernails changes associated with chemotherapy in breast cancer: Muehrcke’s lines
Authors: Chang Xiaosong , Zhen Peng , Zeng Jian
Published: July 2018

Key Clinical Message

Nail abnormalities are an indicator of systemic disease but are always neglected during clinic visit. Here, we report a rare case of Muehrcke’s lines accompany with normal range serum albumin after chemotherapy, unlike the hypoalbuminemia in most cases, which suggest malnutrition is not the only cause of Muehrcke’s lines.
Fructose Transformations in Ethanol using Carbon Supported Polyoxometalate Acidic Solids for 5‐Ethoxymethylfurfural Production
Authors: García‐Bosch Nadia , Bachiller‐Baeza Belén , Rodríguez‐Ramos Inmaculada , Guerrero‐Ruiz Antonio
Published: July 2018

A series of carbon supported polyoxometalates have been prepared and studied as acid catalysts for the fructose dehydration. The catalytic supports, microporous activated carbon (AC, SBET=1190 m2/g) and high surface area graphite (HSAG, SBET=400 m2/g), were loaded with 15 wt% of polyoxometalates: phosphotungstic acid (TPA) or tungstosilicic acid (STA). The four resulting catalysts were tested in the fructose reaction at moderate temperature 140 °C, using water and ethanol solvents. Catalytic properties have been compared with those of an acidic resin, Amberlyst 15. As relevant findings the specific interactions of carbon supports and polyoxometalates let the inhibition of active phase lixiviation. An improved catalyst (STA‐HSAG) in terms of selectivity to valuable products (ethoxymethylfurfural and ethyl levulinate) and high specific catalytic activity using ethanol as solvent has been developed. This catalyst can be reused after regeneration by washing with organic solvents.
Impact of Charge Transport Dynamics and Conditioning on Cycling Efficiency within Single Redox Active Colloids
Authors: Gossage Zachary T. , Hernández‐Burgos Kenneth , Moore Jeffrey S. , Rodríguez‐López Joaquín
Published: July 2018

Redox active colloids (RACs) are flowable suspensions for size‐exclusion redox flow batteries that exchange billions of electrons per particle. Single particle measurements via bulk electrolysis and voltammetry provided an accelerated platform for evaluating the role of state of charge and conditioning on RAC performance. We used scanning electrochemical microscopy to image, isolate, and interrogate RACs (830 nm diameter) with a 300 nm probe. Deep electrolysis of the particles evidenced capacity losses, but this conditioning simultaneously led to increased Coulombic efficiency. On the other hand, shallow cycling using voltammetry for over 150 cycles showed improved charge recovery and gradual changes in the particle's diffusional regimes. Raman spectroelectrochemistry on few RACs confirmed that degradation occurred upon deep cycling but that shallow cycling was not as detrimental, albeit with low capacity access. The methodologies presented herein provide a stepwise viewpoint of the progression of RAC function with cycling, linking bulk behavior with that of individual particles.
Nucleobase Modified Adefovir (PMEA) Analogues as Potent and Selective Inhibitors of Adenylate Cyclases from Bordetella pertussis and Bacillus anthracis
Authors: Česnek Michal , Skácel Jan , Jansa Petr , Dračínský Martin , Šmídková Markéta , Mertlíková‐Kaiserová Helena , Soto‐Velasquez Monica P. , Watts Val J. , Janeba Zlatko
Published: July 2018

A series of 13 acyclic nucleoside phosphonates (ANPs) as bisamidate prodrugs was prepared. Five compounds were found to be non‐cytotoxic and selective inhibitors of Bordetella pertussis adenylate cyclase toxin (ACT) in J774A.1 macrophage cell‐based assays. The 8‐aza‐7‐deazapurine derivative of adefovir (PMEA) was found to be the most potent ACT inhibitor in the series (IC50=16 nm) with substantial selectivity over mammalian adenylate cyclases (mACs). AC inhibitory properties of the most potent analogues were confirmed by direct evaluation of the corresponding phosphonodiphosphates in cell‐free assays and were found to be potent inhibitors of both ACT and edema factor (EF) from Bacillus anthracis (IC50 values ranging from 0.5 to 21 nm). Moreover, 7‐halo‐7‐deazapurine analogues of PMEA were discovered to be potent and selective mammalian AC1 inhibitors (no inhibition of AC2 and AC5) with IC50 values ranging from 4.1 to 5.6 μm in HEK293 cell‐based assays.
Brain‐Penetrant Triazolopyrimidine and Phenylpyrimidine Microtubule Stabilizers as Potential Leads to Treat Human African Trypanosomiasis
Authors: Monti Ludovica , Wang Steven C , Oukoloff Killian , Smith Amos B. , Brunden Kurt R. , Caffrey Conor R. , Ballatore Carlo
Published: July 2018

In vitro whole‐organism screens of Trypanosoma brucei with representative examples of brain‐penetrant microtubule (MT)‐stabilizing agents identified lethal triazolopyrimidines and phenylpyrimidines with sub‐micromolar potency. In mammalian cells, these antiproliferative compounds disrupt MT integrity and decrease total tubulin levels. Their parasiticidal potency, combined with their generally favorable pharmacokinetic properties, which include oral bioavailability and brain penetration, suggest that these compounds are potential leads against human African trypanosomiasis.
Practical application of browns and grays based on a vector concept—The practical strength the asymmetrical Munsell color space
Authors: Ng Woon Lam
Published: July 2018

A comparison was done regarding tertiary students' response between the symmetrical color wheel—The Itten Color Wheel developed by Johanne Itten at Bauhaus School and the asymmetrical Munsell Color Space developed by Professor Albert Munsell. One of the significant differences was the students' response on the representation of browns and grays. Students realized the Itten Color Wheel did not indicate these less chromatic browns and grays in relation to their pure hues while the Munsell Color Space arranged these browns and grays progressively in accurate vector length from one hue to another. The Munsell Color Space was first developed with watercolor paint representing the true practical range of each hue with its transitional tertiary colors, namely the intermediate browns and grays within the color space. The practical range between any two or more hues could be visualized with the help of these intermediate browns and grays. To investigate further the importance of the asymmetrical structure of the Munsell Color Space and the practical advantage through representing browns and grays in the color space, this article will present a vector approach of color planning. This approach further enhances the learning of color theory based on the Munsell Color Space. A few practical examples are also shown in this article to illustrate how this vector approach may help in learning and planning color applications.
Performance of stock price with changes in SRI governance index
Authors: Park Joon Woo , Lee Chang Won
Published: July 2018

We investigate the performance of the stock and volume effect associated with changes in the composition of the socially responsible investment (SRI) governance index during a period from 2003 to 2012. It turns out that, in the short term and long term, the announcement of inclusion in the SRI governance index has a positive effect in the stock market; however, exclusion from the SRI governance index has a negative effect. The price reversal phenomenon partly appears in the short term, and stock prices are increased again. The increase of stock prices in the short and long runs indicates a change in intrinsic value. The performance of stock prices in the short and long runs is positive (+); this is caused by the downward‐sloping demand curve (DSDC). The trading volume for event periods is a little more than the current volume in trading volume analysis. Therefore, using these results, we can adopt the price pressure hypothesis, information hypothesis, DSDC hypothesis and liquidity hypothesis.
Past distribution of epiphyllous liverworts in China: The usability of historical data
Authors: Jiang Yanbin , Wang Tiejun , Wu Yupeng , Hu Ronggui , Huang Ke , Shao Xiaoming
Published: July 2018

Epiphyllous liverworts form a special group of bryophytes that primarily grow on the leaves of understory vascular plants in tropical and subtropical evergreen broadleaf forests. Being sensitive to moisture and temperature changes, epiphyllous liverworts are often considered to be good indicators of climate change and forest degradation. However, they are a poorly collected and taxonomically complicated group, with an only partly identified distribution pattern. In this study, we built four models based on 24 environmental variables at four different spatial resolutions (i.e., 1 km, 5 km, 10 km, and 15 km) to predict the past distribution of epiphyllous liverworts in China, using Maxent model and 63 historical location records (i.e., presence‐only data). Both area under the curve of the receiver operating characteristic (AUC) and true skill statistic (TSS) methods are used to assess the model performance. Results showed that the model with the predictors at a 15‐km resolution achieved the highest predictive accuracy (AUC=0.946; TSS=0.880), although there was no statistically significant difference between the four models (p > 0.05). The most significant environmental variables included aridity, annual precipitation, precipitation of wettest month, precipitation of wettest quarter, and precipitation of warmest quarter, annual mean NDVI, and minimum NDVI. The predicted suitable areas for epiphyllous liverworts were mainly located in the south of Yangtze River and seldom exceed 35°N, which were consistent with the museum and herbarium records, as well as the historical records in scientific literatures. Our study further demonstrated the value of historical data to ecological and evolutionary studies.
Freshwater pearl mussels as a stream water stable isotope recorder
Authors: Pfister Laurent , Thielen Frank , Deloule Etienne , Valle Nathalie , Lentzen Esther , Grave Cléa , Beisel Jean‐Nicolas , McDonnell Jeffrey J.
Published: July 2018

For several decades, stable isotopes have been a commonly used and effective tool for flow path analysis, stream water source apportionment, and transit time analysis. The Global Network of Isotopes in Precipitation repository now has monthly precipitation isotope time series extending over several years and even decades in some settings. However, stream water isotope composition time series remain rather short with only very few data sets spanning over more than a few years. A critical challenge in this respect is the collection of stream water isotope data sets across a wide variety of headwater streams and for long durations. We rely on a new approach for stream signal reconstruction based on freshwater mussels, specifically the freshwater pearl mussel Margaritifera margaritifera. We use secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) to quantify oxygen isotope ratios in pearl mussel shell growth bands. In our study area, the observed seasonal variability in precipitation δ18O values ranges between −15‰ and −3‰. This input signal is strongly damped in stream water, where observed values of δ18O range between −10‰ and −6.5‰. These values are consistent with our measured average shell‐derived stream water δ18O of −7.19‰. Along successive growth bands, SIMS‐based stream water δ18Ow values varied within a seasonal range of −9‰ to −5‰. The proposed SIMS‐based shell analysis technique is obviously well suited for analysing isotopic signatures of O in shell material—especially from the perspective of reconstructing historical series of in‐stream isotope signatures.