bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do adult trees increase conspecific juvenile resilience to recurrent droughts? Implications for forest regeneration
Authors: Andivia Enrique , Madrigal‐González Jaime , Villar‐Salvador Pedro , Zavala Miguel A.
Published: June 2018

Recruitment is a bottleneck for forest regeneration especially in semi‐arid Mediterranean environments. Ensuring natural forest regeneration is vital for preserving ecosystem function under climate warming and increased frequency and intensity of extreme droughts. Interspecific positive interactions are of paramount importance in these ecosystems. The net outcome of conspecific plant interactions in semi‐arid forests, however, has been less explored, particularly the range of environmental conditions for which juveniles benefit from nursing effects. We evaluated the direction and magnitude of intraspecific relationships between adults and juveniles ofPinus pinasterin a dry continental Mediterranean forest in the Iberian Peninsula. We measured the longitudinal shoot elongation of the last 15 yr and foliar functional traits in pine saplings growing under the canopy of adult pines and in open habitats. We examined the growth response to precipitation and the resilience and resistance of growth to two extreme drought events in 2005 and 2012. Our results show likely facilitation of saplings by adult conspecifics. Nursed saplings had a greater size relative to age, longer needles, and faster shoot elongation than saplings in open habitats. In addition, saplings under the canopy were more resistant and resilient to the first severe drought event. However, saplings grown in open habitats were more resilient to the second drought event, which might suggest a shift in the net balance of conspecific interactions with increased drought frequency and with tree ontogeny. These results have a direct application for the adaptation and restoration of semi‐arid forest ecosystems under climate change. Currently, adults are used as nurse plants to enhance survival and growth of juveniles. However, this positive effect on sapling performance might shift to negative under scenarios of increasing frequency and intensity of drought events.
1D and 2D Polybromotellurates(IV): Structural Studies and Thermal Stability
Authors: Usoltsev Andrey N. , Adonin Sergey A. , Abramov Pavel A. , Novikov Alexander S. , Shayapov Vladimir R. , Plyusnin Pavel E. , Korolkov Ilya V. , Sokolov Maxim N. , Fedin Vladimir P.
Published: June 2018

Three novel polybromotellurates(IV) were obtained by reactions of TeO2 in conc. HBr with Br2 and tri‐ or tetraalkylammonium salts. They contain [TeBr6]2– octahedra connected by {Br2} linkers into one‐ or pseudo‐two‐dimensional networks. The thermal stability of the products was investigated by TGA; additionally, all compounds were characterized by Raman spectroscopy. Energies of Br···Br interactions were estimated by DFT calculations (QTAIM method).
Assembly of Trifluoromethylated Morpholines through Cascade Reactions of Bromoenones with Secondary Amino Alcohols
Authors: Rulev Alexander Yu. , Romanov Alexey R. , Kondrashov Evgeniy V. , Ushakov Igor A. , Muzalevskiy Vasiliy M. , Nenajdenko Valentine G.
Published: June 2018

Fluorinated α‐bromoenones react readily with amino alcohols containing a secondary amino group to give monocyclic morpholine derivatives or unexpected bicyclic compounds containing a morpholine moiety fused with an oxetane ring. The reactions are highly stereoselective. The assembly of these heterocycles starts with an aza‐Michael addition followed by intermolecular substitution and addition processes.
An Improved Synthesis of the Antibiotic Dehydrophos
Authors: Jiménez‐Andreu M. Mercedes , Sayago Francisco J. , Cativiela Carlos
Published: June 2018

Within this work an efficient procedure for the synthesis of the vinyl phosphonate tripeptide dehydrophos is described. This procedure constitutes a significant improvement over previously described strategies, since critical transformations in the synthesis of dehydrophos were carried out in only two synthetic steps, with higher yields and under smooth conditions. Thus, the dehydrophosphoalanine residue was generated by means of the Horner–Wadsworth–Emmons reaction of formaldehyde with a peptide bearing an aminomethylbis(phosphonate) moiety, whereas deprotection of the N‐terminal position of the thus‐obtained dehydrophosphonopeptide and partial hydrolysis of the dimethyl phosphonate residue took place simultaneously. In addition, we confirmed that the chiral integrity of the leucine residue was preserved throughout these transformations.
Single‐walled Carbon Nanotube‐Calixarene Based Chemiresistor for Volatile Organic Compounds
Authors: Sarkar Tapan , Srinives Sira , Rodriquez Armando , Mulchandani Ashok
Published: June 2018

Calixarenes are exciting class of organic macromolecules and proved to be an excellent sensing material for optical and mass transaction based sensors. The limited conductivity of calixarenes is a major impediment for the development of calixarene‐only chemiresistive sensors. The authors report on a calixarene‐based chemiresistor that is based on a hybrid material obtained by non‐covalent functionalization of SWCNTs with calixarene. This has two beneficial effects: (a) The use of SWCNT eliminates the conductivity issue, and this enables low‐power chemiresistive sensing; (b) the excellent affinity of calixarenes for certain analytes improves sensitivity. The hybrid material was fabricated by solvent casting, and its formation was confirmed by structural (SEM and TEM), electrical (ID−VD and ID−VG), and spectroscopic (Raman and ATR‐IR) characterizations. The resulting sensing device, operated typically at +1 V, undergoes an increase in resistance upon exposure to successive increments in concentration from 50 to 250 ppm for benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and xylenes, commonly known as BTEX. Respective limits of detection are 25, 7.5, 6.5, and 4 ppm. This is well below their Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) permissible exposure limit (PEL) except for benzene. A mechanistic study for BTEX was performed via field‐effect transistor measurements, and this suggested that the sensing mechanism is dominated by an electrostatic gating effect. In our perception, the availability of a wide variety of calixarenes generates wide perspectives for calixarene‐only based SWCNT‐calixarene hybrid sensor arrays for the realization of electronic nose application.
Evaluation of the applicability of the aquatic ascomycete Phoma sp. UHH 5‐1‐03 for the removal of pharmaceutically active compounds from municipal wastewaters using membrane bioreactors
Authors: Hofmann Ulrike , Fenu Alessio , Beffa Trello , Beimfohr Claudia , Weemaes Marjoleine , Yu Liang , Schrader Steffi , Moeder Monika , Schlosser Dietmar
Published: June 2018

Membrane bioreactors (MBRs) augmented with terrestrial white‐rot basidiomycetes have already been tested for the removal of pharmaceutically active compounds (PhACs) from wastewaters. Within the present study, an aquatic ascomycete (Phoma sp.) was initially demonstrated to efficiently remove several PhACs at their real environmental trace concentrations from nonsterile municipal wastewater on a laboratory scale. Then, a pilot MBR was bioaugmented with Phoma sp. and successively operated in two configurations (first treating full‐scale MBR effluent as a posttreatment, and then treating raw municipal wastewater). Treatment of influent wastewater by the Phoma‐bioaugmented pilot MBR was more efficient than influent treatment by a concomitantly operated full‐scale MBR lacking Phoma sp and posttreatment of full‐scale MBR permeate using the pilot MBR. A stable removal of the PhACs carbamazepine (CBZ) and diclofenac (DF) (39 and 34% on average, respectively) could be achieved throughout the pilot MBR influent treatment period of 51 days, without the need for additional nutrient supplementation (full‐scale MBR: on average, 15% DF but no CBZ removed during 108 days). The long‐term presence of Phoma sp. in the pilot MBR could be demonstrated using fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis, but still open questions regarding its long‐term activity maintenance remain to be answered.
Structure of a disturbed mangrove in the Rio Parnaíba delta, Piauí, northeast Brazil
Authors: Araújo Limaria , Silva Maria Francilene Souza , Gomes Deimes do Nascimento , Sousa Marcelo Batista , Mayo Simon Joseph , de Andrade Ivanilza Moreira
Published: June 2018

Phytosociological analysis was used to quantify the structure of a disturbed mangrove next to a tidal creek of the Rio Igaraçu, Piauí, northeast Brazil, and comparison was made with a survey made fourteen years earlier. Thirty 10×10 m plots were demarcated in three areas of ten plots each. Height and circumference of trees of circumference at breast height ≥ 15 cm were measured in 285 individuals of Avicennia germinans (L.) L., Laguncularia racemosa (L.) C.F.Gaertn. and Rhizophora mangle L. Height ranged from 1.5−15 m (mean 4.4 m) and diameter from 4.8−28.7 cm (mean 7.2 cm). Avicennia and Laguncularia showed the highest parameter values (importance values 52% and 44%, respectively). Furthest from the creek and subject to less frequent tidal flooding, only Avicennia occurred, shorter (mean height 3.8 m) and fewer (density 130 ind ha−1) than elsewhere. In the central area (density 1240 ind ha−1) Avicennia dominated Laguncularia (importance values 53% vs. 47%). All species occurred nearest the creek (density 1480 ind ha−1, importance values Laguncularia 47%, Avicennia 46%, Rhizophora 7%), and heights and diameters were lower. Changes from a previous study suggest selective logging of larger individuals nearer the creek, especially Rhizophora, favouring regeneration of Laguncularia.
Socioeconomic Benefits of Recreational, Commercial, and Subsistence Fishing Associated with National Forests
Authors: Gillespie Nathaniel , Epstein Jonas , Alexander Susan , Bowker J.M. , Medel Ron , Leonard Mike , Thoms Andrew
Published: June 2018

The socioeconomic benefits of recreational, commercial, and subsistence fishing associated with lands managed by the U.S. Forest Service are substantial and are expected to increase over time. Recreational fishing on national forests and grasslands generate over US$2.2 billion annually through fishing equipment, boats, travel, outfitter and guiding services, fuel, and licenses, which in turn provide critical funding for fisheries habitat management and conservation by federal and state agencies. The sustainable nature of recreational fishing by the public complements the agency's multiple use mandate to conserve fish and aquatic resources, which include a high percentage of the nation's threatened, endangered, and sensitive fish and aquatic species. National forests in the Pacific Northwest and the western USA, particularly Alaska, support significant commercial and subsistence salmon fisheries. A growing restoration economy associated with fisheries habitat and watershed restoration contributes to local economies. Although more difficult to quantify, important social and cultural benefits of fishing are provided to the public nationwide, including connecting the public to the outdoors and to public lands. Managing fisheries habitat and watershed health amid competing demands for water, natural resources, and outdoor recreation will continue to challenge the U.S. Forest Service and its partners into the future.
The combined effects of lactoperoxidase system and whey protein coating on microbial, chemical, textural, and sensory quality of shrimp (Penaeus merguiensis) during cold storage (4 ± 1°C)
Authors: Farshidi Maryam , Yousefi Mohammad , Ehsani Ali
Published: June 2018

Growth and reproduction of gram‐negative bacteria has a pivotal role in spoilage of seafood products. In order to identify the effect of lactoperoxidase system (LPOS), an antimicrobial activity was added to whey protein solution at the levels of 0 (control group), 1.25%, 2.5%, 5%, and 7.5%. Then, the shrimp samples were coated with immersion method and stored in the refrigerator for 16 days. In this period, the microbial tests of psychrotrophic bacteria, mesophilic bacteria, Pseudomonas fluorescens, Pseudomonas spp., and Shewanella putrefaciens, chemical tests of total volatile basic nitrogen, thiobarbituric acid, and pH, and sensory evaluation were carried out on the days of 0, 4, 8, 12, and 16. Adding LPOS in the coating resulted in a decrease in the total specific spoilage organisms and TVB‐N. There was no significant effect for the TBA test. The levels of LPOS showed a positive correlation with the acceptable measurement in the sensory evaluation.
Spectral, optical, and cytotoxicity studies on N‐(2‐isonicotinoylhydrazine‐carbonothioyl)benzamide and its metal complexes
Authors: Hosny Nasser Mohammed , Mahmoud Heba M. , Abdel‐Rhman Mohamed H.
Published: June 2018

The ligand N‐(2‐isonicotinoylhydrazine‐carbonothioyl)benzamide (H3L) and its metal complexes with Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), and Zn(II) acetates have been synthesized. The synthesized compounds have been characterized by elemental analyses, FT‐IR, UV‐Visible spectra, 1H‐NMR, 13C‐NMR, ESR, MS, effective magnetic moments, molar conductance, and thermal analyses. The free organic ligand exists in the keto form, but in the metal complexes, it forms chelates with the metal ions in the enol form. The measured optical band gap (Eg) values confirmed the presence of direct electronic transition and the semiconductivity of the current compounds. The ligand and its Zn(II) complex were examined as cytotoxic agents against HePG‐2 and HCT‐116 and showed. H3L exhibited strong cytotoxicity, while Zn complex showed moderate activity.
Modelling and experimental investigation of the adsorption breakthrough behaviors of Pd (II) and Cu (II) by ETA microspheres
Authors: Gao Xiangpeng , Zhang Yan , Zhao Yuming
Published: June 2018

BACKGROUND

Epichlorohydrin/thiourea modified alginate (ETA) microspheres prepared by an emulsion method were used as stationary phase in a fixed‐bed column to selectively adsorb Pd (II) from bi‐metallic solutions. The transport‐dispersive model with a linear driving force kinetics equation and a pH‐dependent competitive Langmuir isotherm was employed to predict the breakthrough curves of the metal ions from the fixed bed.

RESULTS

Good agreement between the model predictions and the experimental results under different operating conditions confirms the validity and accuracy of the mathematical model and the derived model parameters. Metal ions elute faster from the column with steeper breakthrough curves at higher flow rates and relatively higher feed concentrations. The pH value significantly affects the competitive adsorption isotherm as well as the breakthrough curves. The fully loaded packed bed can be regenerated completely by dilute thiourea solution.

CONCLUSION

The tailor‐made ETA microspheres can be successfully packed in a fixed‐bed column to selectively adsorb Pd (II) from bimetallic solutions. The transport‐dispersive model is capable of predicting the adsorption performances over a wide range of operating conditions. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Analysis of single, cisplatin‐induced DNA bends by atomic force microscopy and simulations
Authors: Dutta Samrat , Rivetti Claudio , Gassman Natalie R. , Young Carl G. , Jones Bradley T. , Scarpinato Karin , Guthold Martin
Published: June 2018

Bent DNA, or DNA that is locally more flexible, is a recognition motif for many DNA binding proteins. These DNA conformational properties can thus influence many cellular processes, such as replication, transcription, and DNA repair. The importance of these DNA conformational properties is juxtaposed to the experimental difficulty to accurately determine small bends, locally more flexible DNA, or a combination of both (bends with increased flexibility). In essence, many current bulk methods use average quantities, such as the average end‐to‐end distance, to extract DNA conformational properties; they cannot access the additional information that is contained in the end‐to‐end distance distributions. We developed a method that exploits this additional information to determine DNA conformational parameters. The method is based on matching end‐to‐end distance distributions obtained experimentally by atomic force microscopy imaging to distributions obtained from simulations. We applied this method to investigate cisplatin GG biadducts. We found that cisplatin induces a bend angle of 36° and softens the DNA locally around the bend.
The Clinical Specialist Radiation Therapist (CSRT): A case study exploring the effectiveness of a new advanced practice role in Canada
Authors: Harnett Nicole , Bak Kate , Lockhart Elizabeth , Ang Michelle , Zychla Laura , Gutierrez Eric , Warde Padraig
Published: June 2018

Introduction

The Clinical Specialist Radiation Therapist (CSRT), is a new advanced practice (AP) role for radiation therapists (RTTs). Following training, education and evaluation, the CSRT performs specific duties in autonomous ways, making advanced clinical decisions in their area of specialization. This case study examines the CSRT's impact on quantity (i.e., increasing capacity), improving quality and stimulating research and innovation.

Methods

Between 2007 and 2016, 23 CSRTs worked in 10 cancer centres in various AP position. A standardised metrics package, focusing on wait‐times, patient volumes, patient throughput, time‐savings, quality initiatives, satisfaction, research and innovation was developed and used to collect qualitative and quantitative data. Data were self‐reported by the CSRTs but electronic databases, pre/post‐studies, surveys and interviews were also used.

Results

Quantity projects (n = 76) related to patient volumes, wait‐times, patient throughput and time‐savings increased capacity and allowed more patients to enter the system. The presence of a CSRT allowed, on average, 13 additional patients (either new or re‐treated) to be seen, at their respective cancer centre, per month. An average of 1.4 yearly quality improvement initiatives were led by each CSRT, which contributed to improvements in quality of care and satisfaction. CSRTs demonstrated a high level of involvement in research, innovation and knowledge translation activities, either as leaders or part of interprofessional teams.

Conclusion

CSRTs positively impact quantity (capacity of the system), quality, research and innovation. Future efforts include permanent and sustainable team integration, practice standards, formal and comprehensive educational preparation, and approaches to consistent, valid assessment of AP in radiation therapy.
The deeper the pouch is, the longer the radiofrequency duration and higher the radiofrequency energy needed—Cavotricuspid isthmus ablation using intracardiac echocardiography
Authors: Shimizu Yukiko , Yoshitani Kazuyasu , Murotani Kenta , Kujira Kazuto , Kurozumi Yuma , Fukuhara Rei , Taniguchi Ryoji , Toma Masanao , Miyamoto Tadashi , Kita Yoshio , Takatsu Yoshiki , Sato Yukihito
Published: June 2018

Background

The aim of this study was to explore whether the pouch depth influenced the radiofrequency (RF) duration and total delivered RF energy for cavotricuspid isthmus (CTI) ablation and define the cutoff value for a deep pouch‐specified ablation strategy.

Methods

This study included 94 atrial fibrillation (AF) patients (56 males, age 68 ± 8.0 years). With intracardiac echocardiography, the isthmus length and pouch depth were precisely measured. After a standard AF ablation, all patients underwent the CTI ablation along the lateral isthmus. If bidirectional block could not be achieved, the ablation catheter was deflected more than 90 degrees to ablate inside the pouch (knuckle‐curve ablation).

Results

Seventy‐two patients (76.6%) had a sub‐Eustachian pouch. Bidirectional block could be achieved in all patients. By a univariate logistic regression analysis, only the pouch depth was significantly correlated with the RF duration (P = .005) and RF energy (P = .006). A multivariate logistic regression analysis also revealed the pouch depth was the sole factor that influenced the RF duration (P = .001) and RF energy (P = .001). Among the 72 patients, 21 patients needed a knuckle‐curve ablation. Using a receiver operating characteristic curve, the optimal cutoff value of the pouch depth for a knuckle‐curve ablation was 3.7 mm with a sensitivity of 90% and specificity of 69%.

Conclusions

The sub‐Eustachian pouch depth was the sole factor that influenced the RF duration and energy in the CTI ablation. If the pouch was deeper than 3.7 mm, a deep pouch‐specified ablation strategy would be needed.
Relationship Between Perceived Organizational Support, Proactive Personality, and Perceived Employability in Workers Over 50
Authors: Guilbert Laure , Carrein Cindy , Guénolé Nicolas , Monfray Lise , Rossier Jérôme , Priolo Daniel
Published: June 2018

This article examines the relationship between perceived organizational support, proactive personality, and perceived employability in a sample of workers over 50. An online questionnaire assessing these variables were filled by 213 employees. Results confirmed that individual dispositions have a significant impact on perceived employability but also indicated that organizational context may have a greater impact on employability. The implications of the findings are discussed, and suggestions are offered for future research on employability.
Defining Work Stress in Young People
Authors: Sawang Sukanlaya , Newton Cameron J.
Published: June 2018

Stress experienced by young workers can be very different from stress experienced by adults because of differing psychosocial developments. It is important to understand how early workplace experiences shape young workers' subsequent attitudes and behaviors, which may affect their psychological well‐being. This study examined how 18 young workers ages 17–29 perceive work stress. The authors found that young workers view job stress in 3 dimensions: lack of opportunity to learn, poor social interaction, and lack of opportunity to exercise initiative. Young workers also view work demands as challenging tasks and become job crafters to find more satisfaction in routine tasks.
Solving FDEs with Caputo‐Fabrizio derivative by operational matrix based on Genocchi polynomials
Authors: Sadeghi Roshan Sedighe , Jafari Hossein , Baleanu Dumitru
Published: June 2018

We introduce a new approach to solve a type of fractional order differential equations without singularity. For fractional integration, we obtain the operational matrix through Genocchi polynomials. Some examples are presented to test the applicability and efficiency of the technique.
Technical Note: Adapting a GE SIGNA PET/MR scanner for radiotherapy
Authors: Brynolfsson Patrik , Axelsson Jan , Holmberg August , Jonsson Joakim H. , Goldhaber David , Jian Yiqiang , Illerstam Fredrik , Engström Mathias , Zackrisson Björn , Nyholm Tufve
Published: June 2018

Purpose

Simultaneous collection of PET and MR data for radiotherapy purposes are useful for, for example, target definition and dose escalations. However, a prerequisite for using PET/MR in the radiotherapy workflow is the ability to image the patient in treatment position. The aim of this work was to adapt a GE SIGNA PET/MR scanner to image patients for radiotherapy treatment planning and evaluate the impact on signal‐to‐noise (SNR) of the MR images, and the accuracy of the PET attenuation correction.

Method

A flat tabletop and a coil holder were developed to image patients in the treatment position, avoid patient contour deformation, and facilitate attenuation correction of flex coils. Attenuation corrections for the developed hardware and an anterior array flex coil were also measured and implemented to the PET/MR system to minimize PET quantitation errors. The reduction of SNR in the MR images due to the added distance between the coils and the patient was evaluated using a large homogenous saline‐doped water phantom, and the activity quantitation errors in PET imaging were evaluated with and without the developed attenuation corrections.

Result

We showed that the activity quantitation errors in PET imaging were within ±5% when correcting for attenuation of the flat tabletop, coil holder, and flex coil. The SNR of the MRI images were reduced to 74% using the tabletop, and 66% using the tabletop and coil holders.

Conclusion

We present a tabletop and coil holder for an anterior array coil to be used with a GE SIGNA PET/MR scanner, for scanning patients in the radiotherapy work flow. Implementing attenuation correction of the added hardware from the radiotherapy setup leads to acceptable PET image quantitation. The drop in SNR in MR images may require adjustment of the imaging protocols.
The different roles of opioid receptors in the inhibitory effects induced by sacral dorsal root ganglion stimulation on nociceptive and nonnociceptive conditions in cats
Authors: Wang Zhaoxia , Liao Limin , Deng Han , li Xing , Chen Guoqing , Liao Xiwen
Published: June 2018

Aim

To examine the roles of opioid receptors in the inhibition of nociceptive and nonnociceptive bladder reflexes by sacral dorsal root ganglion (DRG) stimulation in cats.

Methods

Hook electrodes were placed in the right S1 and S2 DRG of cats. The bladders were infused with physiologic saline or 0.25% acetic acid (AA). Naloxone (0.1, 0.3, and 1 mg/kg), an opioid receptor antagonist, was administered intravenously. S1 or S2 DRG stimulation was applied before and after administering the drug. Multiple cystometrograms were performed to determine the effects of DRG stimulation and opioid receptors on the micturition reflex under nociceptive and non‐nociceptive conditions.

Results

AA significantly (P < 0.01) reduced bladder capacity (BC). DRG stimulation at threshold (T) and 1.5 T significantly increased BC of the saline control under nociceptive and non‐nociceptive conditions. When saline was infused, naloxone (0.1‐1 mg/kg) significantly (P < 0.01) reduced BC; however, naloxone did not change BC during AA irritation. During saline infusion, naloxone (0.3 and 1 mg/kg) partly blocked S1 DRG stimulation‐induced inhibition but had only a slight effect on S2 DRG stimulation. During AA infusion, naloxone (0.3 and 1 mg/kg) only partially blocked S1 DRG stimulation at T intensity but not during 1.5 T stimulation. However, no doses of naloxone significantly affected S2 DRG stimulation.

Conclusion

Opioid receptors play a role in sacral DRG stimulation on non‐nociceptive condition but are not involved in the inhibitory effect of stimulation in nociceptive conditions.
Validation of a brief measure of HIV health‐related anxiety among women living with HIV
Authors: Schulte Marya T. , Marelich William D. , Payne Diana L. , Tarantino Nicholas , Armistead Lisa P. , Murphy Debra A.
Published: June 2018

Anxiety symptoms related to health are often present in populations coping with chronic illness, and among women living with HIV (WLWH), anxiety has been linked to a range of negative outcomes. This paper describes the validation of a four‐item instrument designed to measure health‐related anxiety (HRA) in WLWH by assessing the impact of thinking about HIV status and health on difficulty sleeping, lack of appetite, reduced desire to socialize, and difficulty concentrating at school or work. The scale was administered to 238 adult WLWH across three studies. Exploratory factor analysis revealed a one‐factor solution; multi‐group confirmatory factor invariance analyses supported the single factor model. For construct and criterion validity, correlations between the HRA scale and validated instruments measuring psychological, psychosocial, and physical distress were as predicted. Results support the validity of the HRA scale among WLWH as a brief measure of anxiety related to HIV status and health.
Risk factor analysis for mortality among infants requiring tracheostomy
Authors: Strang Abigail R. , Briddell Jenna W. , Barth Patrick C. , Shah Udayan K. , Chidekel Aaron
Published: June 2018

Introduction

An increasing number of tracheostomies are performed in infants with complex comorbidities including bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) and congenital heart disease (CHD). With this shift in indications, there is an urgent need to characterize outcomes in this population.

Methods

This 5‐year retrospective chart review assessed rates of 12‐month mortality in infants who were ≤12 months of age at the time of tracheostomy at a tertiary care pediatric hospital and risk factors associated with death. Patient characteristics evaluated included chronologic age and post‐menstrual age at tracheostomy placement, gestational age and weight, sex, ethnicity, indication for tracheostomy, and comorbidities including BPD, CHD, subglottic stenosis (SGS), craniofacial syndromes, and chromosomal trisomy syndromes. Subgroup analysis was performed in infants with CHD.

Results

One hundred thirty‐two tracheostomies were performed during the study period with an overall 12‐month mortality of 14.4% (19/132). Mortality was increased in patients with CHD (35%) and decreased in patients with SGS (3.7%). No other patient characteristics were associated with differences in mortality. There was a trend towards improved mortality outcomes among patients born at earlier gestational ages.

Conclusions

Among infants with tracheostomy in this cohort, overall mortality rates were relatively low but not insignificant. CHD was associated with increased mortality; however, children with SGS showed more favorable outcomes. Other patient characteristics were not associated with differences in mortality. These data clarify outcomes in a group of infants with tracheostomy.
Regulatory assessment of drug dissolution profiles comparability via maximum deviation
Authors: Moellenhoff Kathrin , Dette Holger , Kotzagiorgis Evangelos , Volgushev Stanislas , Collignon Olivier
Published: June 2018

In drug development, comparability of dissolution profiles of 2 different formulations is usually assessed using the similarity factor f2. In practice, the drug dissolution profiles are deemed similar if the f2 exceeds 50, which occurs when a 10% maximum difference in the mean percentage of the dissolved drug at each time point between test and reference formulation is obtained. According to the Guideline on the Investigation of Bioequivalence (CPMP/EWP/QWP/1401/98 Rev. 1/ Corr **) use of the f2 is however restricted by a set of validity conditions. If some of these conditions are not satisfied, the f2 is not considered suitable, and alternative statistical methods are needed. In this article, we propose an inferential framework based on the maximum deviation between curves to test the comparability of drug dissolution profiles. The new methodology is applicable regardless whether the validity criteria of the f2 are met or not. Contrary to the f2, this approach also integrates the variability of the measurements over time and not only their average. To benchmark our method, we performed simulations informed by 3 real case studies provided by the European Medicines Agency and extracted from dossiers submitted to the Centralised Procedure for Marketing Authorisation Application. In the scenarios of the simulation study, the new method controlled its type I error rate when the maximum deviation was greater than the similarity acceptance limit of 10%. The power exceeded 80% for small values of the maximum deviation, while the test was more conservative for intermediate ones. Our results were also very robust to sampling variations. Based on these positive findings, we encourage applicants to consider the new maximum deviation–based method as a valid alternative to the f2, especially when the validity criteria of the latter are not met.
In Situ Chelating Synthesis of Hierarchical LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2 Polyhedron Assemblies with Ultralong Cycle Life for Li‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhang Yue , Jia Dianzeng , Tang Yakun , Huang Yudai , Pang Weikong , Guo Zaiping , Zhou Zhen
Published: June 2018

Layered lithium transition‐metal oxides, with large capacity and high discharge platform, are promising cathode materials for Li‐ion batteries. However, their high‐rate cycling stability still remains a large challenge. Herein, hierarchical LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2 polyhedron assemblies are obtained through in situ chelation of transition metal ions (Ni2+, Co2+, and Mn2+) with amide groups uniformly distributed along the backbone of modified polyacrylonitrile chains to achieve intimate mixing at the atomic level. The assemblies exhibit outstanding electrochemical performances: superior rate capability, high volumetric energy density, and especially ultralong high‐rate cyclability, due to the superiority of unique hierarchical structures. The polyhedrons with exposed active crystal facets provide more channels for Li+ diffusion, and meso/macropores serve as access shortcuts for fast migration of electrolytes, Li+ and electrons. The strategy proposed in this work can be extended to fabricate other mixed transition metal‐based materials for advanced batteries.
Attenuated Glial Reactivity on Topographically Functionalized Poly(3,4‐Ethylenedioxythiophene):P‐Toluene Sulfonate (PEDOT:PTS) Neuroelectrodes Fabricated by Microimprint Lithography
Authors: Vallejo‐Giraldo Catalina , Krukiewicz Katarzyna , Calaresu Ivo , Zhu Jingyuan , Palma Matteo , Fernandez‐Yague Marc , McDowell BenjaminW. , Peixoto Nathalia , Farid Nazar , O'Connor Gerard , Ballerini Laura , Pandit Abhay , Biggs Manus Jonathan Paul
Published: June 2018

Following implantation, neuroelectrode functionality is susceptible to deterioration via reactive host cell response and glial scar‐induced encapsulation. Within the neuroengineering community, there is a consensus that the induction of selective adhesion and regulated cellular interaction at the tissue–electrode interface can significantly enhance device interfacing and functionality in vivo. In particular, topographical modification holds promise for the development of functionalized neural interfaces to mediate initial cell adhesion and the subsequent evolution of gliosis, minimizing the onset of a proinflammatory glial phenotype, to provide long‐term stability. Herein, a low‐temperature microimprint‐lithography technique for the development of micro‐topographically functionalized neuroelectrode interfaces in electrodeposited poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):p‐toluene sulfonate (PEDOT:PTS) is described and assessed in vitro. Platinum (Pt) microelectrodes are subjected to electrodeposition of a PEDOT:PTS microcoating, which is subsequently topographically functionalized with an ordered array of micropits, inducing a significant reduction in electrode electrical impedance and an increase in charge storage capacity. Furthermore, topographically functionalized electrodes reduce the adhesion of reactive astrocytes in vitro, evident from morphological changes in cell area, focal adhesion formation, and the synthesis of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokine factors. This study contributes to the understanding of gliosis in complex primary mixed cell cultures, and describes the role of micro‐topographically modified neural interfaces in the development of stable microelectrode interfaces.
Dynamic Bayesian Cluster Analysis of Live‐Cell Single Molecule Localization Microscopy Datasets
Authors: Griffié Juliette , Burn Garth L. , Williamson David J. , Peters Ruby , Rubin‐Delanchy Patrick , Owen Dylan M.
Published: June 2018

Until recently, single‐molecule localization microscopy (SMLM) was constrained to the study of fixed cells, limiting analysis to the structural characterization of cell anatomy. The extension of SMLM to live‐cell imaging enables the dynamic visualization of molecular organization, paving the way for more functional studies. If associated with novel quantification tools such as presented here, it has the potential to provide a unique insight into cellular machinery at the nanoscale. While cluster analysis for conventional SMLM data sets is relatively well established, the extension of SMLM to live‐cell imaging lacks the required analytical tools. Here, a Bayesian‐based cluster analysis strategy is presented for live‐cell SMLM that allows the dynamics of nanoscale molecular clusters to be analyzed for the first time, generating functional information otherwise lost in fixed cell studies. The method is validated on simulations as well as on experimental data sets derived from naive CD4+ T‐cell synapses.
Platinum in Chemistry: An Adventure from Phosphorescent Materials to Catalytic C−H Functionalization
Authors: Huo Shouquan
Published: June 2018

Platinum is a precious and versatile metal and has played important roles in various fields of chemistry ranging from functional materials to anticancer drugs and catalysis. This account highlights an adventurous journey of platinum from promoting phosphorescence to catalyzing a C−H functionalization reaction, or you may consider it our research adventure from phosphorescent materials to catalysis. Interestingly, this journey is driven by a series of “bad” reactions, and of course more importantly by our curiosity about the “bad” reactions. This review will introduce to you a few classes of phosphorescent materials based on tridentate and tetradentate cycloplatinated complexes and related material design strategies, a classical example of thermodynamic and kinetic control of reactions and related platinum‐mediated competing sp2/sp3 C−H activation reactions, an unprecedented regiospecific acylation of cycloplatinated complexes, and a unique platinum‐catalyzed oxidant‐ and additive‐free C−H acylation reaction.
Live‐Cell Imaging of DNA Methylation Based on Synthetic‐Molecule/Protein Hybrid Probe
Authors: Kumar Naresh , Hori Yuichiro , Kikuchi Kazuya
Published: June 2018

The epigenetic modification of DNA involves the conversion of cytosine to 5‐methylcytosine, also known as DNA methylation. DNA methylation is important in modulating gene expression and thus, regulating genome and cellular functions. Recent studies have shown that aberrations in DNA methylation are associated with various epigenetic disorders or diseases including cancer. This stimulates great interest in the development of methods that can detect and visualize DNA methylation. For instance, fluorescent proteins (FPs) in conjugation with methyl‐CpG‐binding domain (MBD) have been employed for live‐cell imaging of DNA methylation. However, the FP‐based approach showed fluorescence signals for both the DNA‐bound and ‐unbound states and thus differentiation between these states is difficult. Synthetic‐molecule/protein hybrid probes can provide an alternative to overcome this restriction. In this article, we discuss the synthetic‐molecule/protein hybrid probe that we developed recently for live‐cell imaging of DNA methylation, which exhibited fluorescence enhancement only after binding to methylated DNA.
Current distribution in grounding grid conductors with and without vertical rods buried in two‐layer soil model
Authors: Gouda Osama E. , Dessouky Sobhy S. , Kalas Ahmed E. , Hamdy Mohamed A.
Published: June 2018

For the safe and reliable operation of an electrical system, grounding grids are used. The current distribution in such grounding grid conductors is calculated by either an analytical or a numerical method. This paper presents a new method to obtain the current distribution in grounding grid conductors with and without vertical rods buried in two layers of soil. The two‐layer soil model has been simulated mathematically using two suitable values of resistivity. The computations of the current distribution have been based on the current for each segment of meshes. The investigation includes different meshes, such as one mesh, four meshes, nine meshes, and/or also more meshes. The calculation technique of current distribution is carried out to give all the mutual resistances with respect to (x,y,z) coordinates of each segment to solve the equation containing all segment currents of the meshes. The results in this paper give the current distribution for each segment of each mesh with and without the driving rods. The effect of vertical rods, which are connected to the horizontal grounding grid, on the current distribution and grounding resistance for different grounding grid dimensions and shapes has been studied. For increasing the flexibility of current distribution calculations of the grounding grids, the per‐unit system has been used in this paper. An experimental model to simulate the two‐layer soil model is presented for the validation of the calculated results. © 2018 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
A Paradigm Shift in Leadership Education: Integrating Critical Perspectives Into Leadership Development
Authors: Dugan John P. , Humbles Alyssa D.
Published: June 2018

This chapter positions the integration of critical perspectives in leadership development as imperative. Content introduces the integrated model of critical leadership development and outlines four steps to deepen the practice of critical leadership development in leadership education.
Investing in Critical Leadership Development with High‐School Students
Authors: Winchester Corey
Published: June 2018

Leadership development efforts are enhanced by the early integration of critical perspectives. This chapter outlines a framework for integrating critical leadership development in high schools drawing on a real‐world example from SOAR (Students Organizing Against Racism).
Life Narratives as a Pedagogy for Cultivating Critical Self‐Reflection
Authors: Kelly Bridget Turner , Bhangal Naseeb K.
Published: June 2018

This chapter provides a framework for using life narratives as a powerful pedagogy to move youth from simple reflection to critical self‐reflection. This increases learner agency, generates counter‐narratives that challenge dominant norms, and increases learners’ awareness of positionality.
Increasing Metacognitive Capacity by Disrupting Implicit Leader Prototypes
Authors: Brooks Ben , Chapman Natasha H.
Published: June 2018

Metacognitive capacity (i.e., thinking about how one thinks) is a fundamental component of critical leadership development. This chapter offers practical insights on how to leverage the exploration of implicit leader prototypes as a powerful vehicle for building metacognitive capacity.
Teaching Power as an Inconvenient but Imperative Dimension of Critical Leadership Development
Authors: Barnes Amy C. , Olson Travis H. , Reynolds Danyelle J.
Published: June 2018

A central focus of critical leadership development involves identifying and understanding how power flows through society. This requires a complex understanding of social systems. This chapter explores how leadership educators can more explicitly integrate learning related to power dynamics into leadership development initiatives.
Cultivating Critical Hope: The Too Often Forgotten Dimension of Critical Leadership Development
Authors: Bishundat Devita , Phillip Daviree Velázquez , Gore Willie
Published: June 2018

Adopting critical approaches draws into question how we see the world and renders visible social stratification and inequity. Coming to understand these realities can contribute to pessimism, disillusionment, or retreat from engaging in the work of leadership for social change. This chapter offers tools to aid educators with purposefully cultivating critical hope.
Marginal quality of ceramic inlays after three different instrumental cavity preparation methods of the proximal boxes
Authors: Naumova Ella A. , Schiml Fabian , Arnold Wolfgang H. , Piwowarczyk Andree
Published: June 2018

Objectives

The marginal quality of ceramic inlays was evaluated after the use of three different instrumental finishing methods in mesio-occluso-distal (mod) cavity boxes in vitro after hydrothermal loading (HTL).

Materials and methods

Caries-free human molars were divided into three groups. Mod-cavities were conventionally prepared. Box finishing was performed in every group with rotating (RI), sonic (SI), or ultrasonic (USI) instruments. Surface roughness was examined. Twelve mod-cavities remained untreated. Continuous margin quality was evaluated with scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Ceramic inlays were cemented into cavities. After HTL microleakage, marginal and absolute marginal gaps were examined. All data were analyzed statistically.

Results

Significant differences were found, between cavity surface roughness of RI and SI groups, the RI and USI groups, but not between microleakage, marginal, absolute marginal gaps after HTL and in proximal marginal quality. No correlations between microleakage and marginal gaps nor between microleakage and surface roughness were found.

Conclusion

Mod-cavity proximal box finishing with SI or USI resulted in a higher surface roughness than the use of RI. The type of the finishing method did not influence the marginal quality of ceramic inlays. For the mod-cavity finishing, the use of SI and USI could be an alternative instrumental method to conventional RI methods with a lower risk of iatrogenic damage of the adjacent teeth.

Clinical relevance

This study allows the practitioner to better determine the proper indications and limitations of the sonic and ultrasonic instruments for mod-cavity proximal box finishing.
Reducing Wait Time for Lung Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment: Impact of a Multidisciplinary, Centralized Referral Program
Authors: Common Jessica L. , Mariathas Hensley H. , Parsons Kaylah , Greenland Jonathan D. , Harris Scott , Bhatia Rick , Byrne Suzanne C.
Published: June 2018

Background

A multidisciplinary, centralized referral program was established at our institution in 2014 to reduce delays in lung cancer diagnosis and treatment following diagnostic imaging observed with the traditional, primary care provider–led referral process. The main objectives of this retrospective cohort study were to determine if referral to a Thoracic Triage Panel (TTP): 1) expedites lung cancer diagnosis and treatment initiation; and 2) leads to more appropriate specialist consultation.

Methods

Patients with a diagnosis of lung cancer and initial diagnostic imaging between March 1, 2015, and February 29, 2016, at a Memorial University–affiliated tertiary care centre in St John's, Newfoundland, were identified and grouped according to whether they were referred to the TTP or managed through a traditional referral process. Wait times (in days) from first abnormal imaging to biopsy and treatment initiation were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using the Wilcoxon rank-sum test.

Results

A total of 133 patients who met inclusion criteria were identified. Seventy-nine patients were referred to the TTP and 54 were managed by traditional means. There was a statistically significant reduction in median wait times for patients referred to the TTP. Wait time from first abnormal imaging to biopsy decreased from 61.5 to 36.0 days ( P < .0001). Wait time from first abnormal imaging to treatment initiation decreased from 118.0 to 80.0 days ( P < .001). The percentage of specialist consultations that led to treatment was also greater for patients referred to the TTP.

Conclusions

A collaborative, centralized intake and referral program helps to reduce wait time for diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer.
AN ECONOMIC RISK ANALYSIS OF WEED-SUPPRESSIVE RICE CULTIVARS IN CONVENTIONAL RICE PRODUCTION
Authors: WATKINS K. BRADLEY , GEALY DAVID R. , ANDERS MERLE M. , MANE RANJITSINH U.
Published: June 2018

Weed-suppressive rice cultivars have the potential to reduce heavy reliance on synthetic herbicides in rice production. However, the economics of using weed-suppressive rice cultivars in conventional rice systems have not been fully evaluated. This study uses simulation and stochastic efficiency with respect to a function to rank weed-suppressive and weed-nonsuppressive rice cultivars under alternative herbicide intensity levels based on their certainty equivalents mapped across increasing levels of absolute risk aversion. The results indicate risk-averse rice producers would prefer to grow weed-suppressive cultivars using less herbicide inputs than what would be used to grow weed-nonsuppressive rice cultivars.