bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Speaking at Home
Authors: Stuthridge Jo
Published: November 2019

This paper was originally presented as a short speech to the New Zealand Association of Psychotherapists’ Annual Conference in Dunedin 2011. In it, I sketch three broad conclusions from developmental research and consider the implications for a relational approach to psychotherapy practice, from a transactional analyst’s perspective. I use my experience of speaking at home to illustrate how ongoing development of the self is co- constructed through encounters with others.
I tukuna tuatahitia tēnei tuhinga hei kōrero poto i te Hui Wānanga ā-Tau a te Rōpū Kaiwhakaora Hinengaro o Aotearoa o te tau 2011 i Otepoti. I reira, i whakaarahia ake ngā whakatau e toru puta ake i ngā rangahau whanake, ā, ka whakaaro ki ngā rara ki te whāia he huarahi hono ki te umanga kaiwhakaora hinengaro e ai ki tā te umanga kaitātari tirohanga. I whakamahia aku wheako kōrerorero i te kāinga hai whakaata i te whanaketanga o te kiriitau mai i te pānga atu ki ētahi.
“Not Home” is Sometimes Where we Start
Authors: Shepherd Toni , Woodard Wiremu
Published: November 2019

The colonisation of “home” — Aotearoa, New Zealand is motivated by the acquisition of land and natural resources. As more land is acquired indigenous peoples are driven further from a symbiotic relationship with the “home-land”, an indigenous worldview and ultimately their “selves”. The consequences of these disruptions have profound psychological effects. This article explores the idea that “home” is a social construct that reflects the reality of the dominant group. As indigenous peoples our idea of “home” is repudiated and subjugated, resulting in dislocation, marginalisation and discrimination with the intention of maintaining the dominant cultural home. Weaving through concepts of Indigenous parenting, decolonisation, tangata whenua, state housing, raupatu, premature babies, maungapohatu and spirituality, we arrive at how we as health practitioners can unlock our therapeutic paradigm. The essential inclusion of historical, socio-political and environmental elements opens us to the possibility of clearly seeing indigenous psychological issues in their whole context rather than locating dysfunction within the indigenous person and marginalised peoples.
Ko te whakatauiwi o “kāinga” – Aotearoa, Niu Tīreni, ngana ana kia whai whenua, rawa taiao hoki. Ka rahi ake te whiwhi whenua ka tawhiti kē atu te tangata whenua i te taura here ki tōna tūrangawaewae, he tirohanga ā-ao a te tangata whenua, ā, mutu rawa ake, tōna tuakiritanga. Ko te mutunga mai o ēnei tauwhatinga ko te pānga taumaha ki te hinengaro. E tūhuri ana tēnei tuhinga i te whakaaro, ko te ariā “kāinga”, he hangana hāpori whakaahua mai i te pono o te rōpū matua. Ko tā te tangata whenua whakaaro mō “kāinga”, ka whakahahanihia, ka whakaitihia, ā, mutu rawa ake ka totara wāhi ruahia, ka aukatihia kia mārō ai te mau o te kāinga ahurea matua. E raranga haere ana i ngā aronga Māori whāngai tamariki, wetenga uruwhenua, tangata whenua, whare kāwanatanga, raupatu, pēpē kokoti tau, Maungapōhatu, me te wairuatanga, ka kitea me pēhea e taea ai e tātou e ngā kaimahi hauora te whakatuwhera i ā tātou tikanga whaiora. Mā te whakauru wāhanga mai o ngā kōrero o mua, o te hāpori- tōrangapū me te pūtaiao tērā pea ka mārama te kitea o ngā take hinengaro Māori i roto i tōna ake ao kāre e kimi noa ihotia te mate i roto i ngā tāngata whenua me ngā iwi taitapainga.
Study on Strain Rate–Dependent Deformation Mechanism of WC–10 wt% Ni3Al Cemented Carbide by Micropillar Compression
Authors: Zhang Minai , Wang Xin , Dupuy Alexander D. , Schoenung Julie M. , Li Xiaoqiang
Published: November 2019

Herein, the strain rate–dependent deformation mechanism of WC–10 wt% Ni3Al cermet micropillars is studied by in situ uniaxial compression. The results show that compression at high strain rates exhibits a relatively smooth stress–strain response compared with that at low strain rates. Microstructural characterization suggests that at high strain rates, grain boundary sliding is the dominant mechanism of deformation, whereas at low strain rates, dislocation annihilation plays the dominant role. The strain rate sensitivity index also varies with the strain rate from 1 × 10−2 to 5 × 10−3 s−1, confirming that the dominant deformation mechanisms change in this range.
Effect of Y‐Element on Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of As‐Cast Mg–3Zn–1Mn Alloy Containing I and W Phase
Authors: Wu Xiaofeng , Xu Chunxiang , Zhang Zhengwei , Yang Wenfu , Zhang Jingshan , Zhang Wenxin
Published: November 2019

Magnesium (Mg) alloy has a wide range of applications in the biomedical field at present. The Mg–Zn–Mn ternary alloy has excellent corrosion resistance, but the addition of Mn element reduces the ductility of the alloy. In this study, a little rare earth element Y is added to the Mg–Zn–Mn ternary alloy to improve the mechanical properties of the alloy, especially the ductility. Experimental results show that the second phase composition and mechanical properties of the alloys are improved by introducing the new second phase (quasicrystal I phase Mg3Zn6Y and W phase Mg3Zn3Y2). When the content of rare earth element Y is 1 wt%, the mechanical properties of the as‐cast alloy are optimized that the tensile strength is increased by 60 MPa compared with the Mg–Zn–Mn alloy, reaching 198 MPa. The elongation increased from 9% to 21%; therefore, the ductility of the material is greatly improved.
Carbon Nanotube‐Based Piezoresistive Sensors Fabricated by Microwave Irradiation
Authors: Herren Blake , Saha Mrinal C. , Liu Yingtao
Published: November 2019

Herein, piezoresistive nanocomposite sensors that consist of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) elastomer and multiwalled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are fabricated via the microwave irradiation method. The effects of microwave curing on the materials' electrical, mechanical, and piezoresistive behaviors are investigated by comparing properties with those obtained from the thermal‐cured nanocomposites. Microstructures, porosities, and qualities of CNT dispersion of the manufactured nanocomposites are studied using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Electrical resistivities of the nanocomposites with various CNT loadings are found to be significantly reduced for microwave‐cured nanocomposites due to the potential improvement of CNT dispersion and enhancement of CNT alignment in comparison with the thermal‐cured nanocomposites. Cyclic compressive tests are performed to determine compressive modulus and piezoresistive properties of the developed nanocomposite sensors. Microwave‐cured sensors demonstrate improved compressibility and similar average gauge factors at strains between 3% and 20% in comparison with the thermal‐cured sensors. The piezoresistive behavior of the microwave‐cured sensors with the lowest CNT concentration is characterized, showing little dependency on strain rate, small drift during an 800‐cycle durability test, and viscoelastic creep response that matches the response seen during an application. The sensors are demonstrated as wearable sensors by detecting human motions including sitting and standing, swaying, and grabbing an object.
Modulation of Förster and Dexter Interactions in Single‐Emissive‐Layer All‐Fluorescent WOLEDs for Improved Efficiency and Extended Lifetime
Authors: Wei Pengcheng , Zhang Dongdong , Duan Lian
Published: November 2019

White organic light‐emitting diodes (WOLEDs) with thermally activated delayed fluorophor sensitized fluorescence (TSF) have aroused wide attention, considering their potential for full exciton utilization without noble‐metal containing phosphors. However, performances of TSF‐WOLEDs with a single‐emissive‐layer (SEL) still suffer from low exciton utilization and insufficient blue emission for proper white balance. Here, by modulating Förster and Dexter interactions in SEL‐TSF‐WOLEDs, high efficiencies, balanced white spectra, and extended lifetimes are realized simultaneously. Given the different dependencies of Förster and Dexter interactions on intermolecular distances, sterically shielded blue thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) emitters and orange conventional fluorescent dopants (CFDs) with electronically inert peripheral units are adopted to enlarge distances of electronically active chromophores, not only blocking the Dexter interaction to prevent exciton loss but also finely suppressing the Förster one to guarantee balanced white emission with sufficient blue components. It thus provides the possibility to maximize device performances in a large range of CFD concentrations. A record high maximum external quantum efficiency/power efficiency of 19.6%/52.2 lm W−1, Commission Internationale de L'Eclairage coordinate of (0.33, 0.45), and prolonged half‐lifetime of over 2300 h at an initial luminance of 1000 cd m−2 are realized simultaneously for SEL‐TSF‐WOLEDs, paving the way toward practical applications.
Pollinator effectiveness in a composite: a specialist bee pollinates more florets but does not move pollen farther than other visitors
Authors: Page Maureen L. , Ison Jennifer L. , Bewley Alison L. , Holsinger Keaton M. , Kaul Andrew D. , Koch Katie E. , Kolis Kory M. , Wagenius Stuart
Published: November 2019

Premise

Variation in pollinator effectiveness may contribute to pollen limitation in fragmented plant populations. In plants with multiovulate ovaries, the number of conspecific pollen grains per stigma often predicts seed set and is used to quantify pollinator effectiveness. In the Asteraceae, however, florets are uniovulate, which suggests that the total amount of pollen deposited per floret may not measure pollinator effectiveness. We examined two aspects of pollinator effectiveness—effective pollen deposition and effective pollen movement—for insects visiting Echinacea angustifolia, a composite that is pollen limited in small, isolated populations.

Methods

We filmed insect visits to Echinacea in two prairie restorations and used these videos to quantify behavior that might predict effectiveness. To quantify effective pollen deposition, we used the number of styles shriveled per visit. To quantify effective pollen movement, we conducted paternity analysis on a subset of offspring and measured the pollen movement distance between mates.

Results

Effective pollen deposition varied among taxa. Andrena helianthiformis, a Heliantheae oligolege, was the most effective taxon, shriveling more than twice the proportion of styles as all other visitors. Differences in visitor behavior on a flowering head did not explain variation in effective pollen deposition, nor did flowering phenology. On average, visitors moved pollen 16 m between plants, and this distance did not vary among taxa.

Conclusions

Andrena helianthiformis is an important pollinator of Echinacea. Variation in reproductive fitness of Echinacea in fragmented habitat may result, in part, from the abundance of this species.
Hydroboration of Alkenes and Alkynes Employing Earth‐Abundant Metal Catalysts
Authors: Singh Arpita , Shafiei‐Haghighi Sara , Smith Cecilia R. , Unruh Daniel K. , Findlater Michael
Published: November 2019

Iron complexes [BIAN]Fe(I)(η6‐toluene) (M1) and [BIAN]FeCl2 (M2) (BIAN=bis(2,6‐diisopropylaniline)acenaphthene) were found to be viable catalysts for the regioselective hydroboration of alkynes and alkenes. The hydroboration of alkynes and alkenes in the presence of HBpin and an activator at 70 °C afforded linear vinyl and alkyl boronic esters, respectively. Selectivity up to 98% was observed for alkyl boronic esters and exclusive formation of trans product was observed for vinyl boronic esters.
Lipid lowering and Alzheimer disease risk: A mendelian randomization study
Authors: Williams Dylan M. , Finan Chris , Schmidt Amand F. , Burgess Stephen , Hingorani Aroon D.
Published: November 2019

Objective

To examine whether genetic variation affecting the expression or function of lipid‐lowering drug targets is associated with Alzheimer disease (AD) risk, to evaluate the potential impact of long‐term exposure to corresponding therapeutics.

Methods

We conducted Mendelian randomization analyses using variants in genes that encode the protein targets of several approved lipid‐lowering drug classes: HMGCR (encoding the target for statins), PCSK9 (encoding the target for PCSK9 inhibitors, eg, evolocumab and alirocumab), NPC1L1 (encoding the target for ezetimibe), and APOB (encoding the target of mipomersen). Variants were weighted by associations with low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) using data from lipid genetics consortia (n up to 295,826). We meta‐analyzed Mendelian randomization estimates for regional variants weighted by LDL‐C on AD risk from 2 large samples (total n = 24,718 cases, 56,685 controls).

Results

Models for HMGCR, APOB, and NPC1L1 did not suggest that the use of related lipid‐lowering drug classes would affect AD risk. In contrast, genetically instrumented exposure to PCSK9 inhibitors was predicted to increase AD risk in both of the AD samples (combined odds ratio per standard deviation lower LDL‐C inducible by the drug target = 1.45, 95% confidence interval = 1.23–1.69). This risk increase was opposite to, although more modest than, the degree of protection from coronary artery disease predicted by these same methods for PCSK9 inhibition.

Interpretation

We did not identify genetic support for the repurposing of statins, ezetimibe, or mipomersen for AD prevention. Notwithstanding caveats to this genetic evidence, pharmacovigilance for AD risk among users of PCSK9 inhibitors may be warranted. ANN NEUROL 2020;87:30–39
A Solid‐State Reference Electrode Based on a Self‐Referencing Pulstrode
Authors: Gao Wenyue , Zdrachek Elena , Xie Xiaojiang , Bakker Eric
Published: November 2019

The design of solid‐state reference electrodes without a liquid junction is important to allow miniature and cost‐effective electrochemical sensors. To address this, a pulse control is proposed using an Ag/AgI element as reliable solid‐state reference electrode. It involves the local release of iodide by a cathodic current that is immediately followed by an electromotive force (EMF) measurement that serves as the reference potential. The recapture of iodide ions is achieved by potentiostatic control. This results in intermittent potential values that are reproducible to less than one millivolt (SD=0.27 mV, n=50). The ionic strength is shown to influence the activity coefficient of released iodide in accordance with the extended Debye–Hückel equation, resulting in a predictable change of the potential reading. The principle is applied to potentiometric potassium detection with a valinomycin‐based ion‐selective electrode (ISE), demonstrating a completely solid‐state sensor configuration.
Unraveling the Role of Site Isolation and Support for Semihydrogenation of Phenylacetylene
Authors: Goud Devender , Cherevotan Arjun , Maligal‐Ganesh Raghu , Ray Bitan , Ramarao S. D. , Raj Jithu , Peter Sebastian C.
Published: November 2019

Intermetallic compounds (IMCs) composed of transition metals and post‐transition metals function as superior heterogeneous catalysts in comparison to their monometallic and bimetallic alloy counterparts. Rendering IMCs in their nanomaterial iterations further enhances their efficiency. Herein, we demonstrate the role of PdIn as well‐dispersed intermetallic nanoparticles (IMNPs) for the semihydrogenation of phenylacetylene selectively to styrene at ambient conditions. Higher selectivity of PdIn was explained with the help DOS calculations. We have explored the role of a few well‐known silica‐based supports such as SBA‐15 and MCM‐41, providing insight into how they affect catalysis. As an additional support we have explored previously reported JNC‐1, a mesoporous carbon material obtained via a templated strategy using SBA‐15. PdIn supported on SBA‐15 and JNC‐1 displayed the best dispersion, while also exhibiting the most catalytic activity due to the unique nature of the porous structure.
A full semester flow cytometry course improves graduate and undergraduate student confidence
Authors: Tueller Josie A. , Whitley Kiara V. , Weber K. Scott
Published: November 2019

Flow cytometry is a versatile and high throughput technique for rapid and efficient biological testing. It requires a high level of conceptual, technical, and analytical skills to properly design experiments, effectively operate flow cytometry machines, and analyze the data. A lack of training and development of any of these three skills can result in underutilization and improper use of flow cytometric machines that can impede research progress. Often students develop these conceptual, technical, and analysis skills from trial and error, but many students either do not use this powerful flow cytometry technology, use it improperly or ineffectively, or give up using it without proper training and support. Here we report on a course which teaches flow cytometry skills to undergraduate and graduate students. The design of this course is unique in that it teaches conceptual, technical, and analytical skills related to flow cytometry in a full semester format. Undergraduate and graduate students reported significant increases in their confidence levels over the course of the semester. Here we provide our findings and resources for others who may want to implement a similar course.
Gaining insight into limitations sets stage for success
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: November 2019

Kanoe Bandy, M.B.A., Athletic Director at Taft College in California, gained valuable lessons from leading the 1996 reinstatement of the Taft athletics program after its 1994 discontinuation.
Metals in Biotechnology: Cr‐Driven Stereoselective Reduction of Conjugated C=C Double Bonds
Authors: Rauch Marine C. R. , Gallou Yann , Delorme Léna , Paul Caroline E. , Arends Isabel W. C. E. , Hollmann Frank
Published: November 2019

Elemental metals are shown to be suitable sacrificial electron donors to drive the stereoselective reduction of conjugated C=C double bonds using Old Yellow Enzymes as catalysts. Both direct electron transfer from the metal to the enzyme as well as mediated electron transfer is feasible, although the latter excels by higher reaction rates. The general applicability of this new chemoenzymatic reduction method is demonstrated, and current limitations are outlined.
Angiographically visible coronary artery collateral circulation improves prognosis in patients presenting with acute ST segment‐elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: Alsanjari Osama , Chouari Tarak , Williams Timothy , Myat Aung , Sambu Nalyaka , Blows Lucy , Cockburn James , de Belder Adam , Hildick‐Smith David
Published: November 2019

Background

Coronary collaterals are often seen supplying retrograde flow to an acutely occluded arterial territory. Whether this early collateralization offers prognostic benefit is not well established.

Methods

We analyzed data from all patients presenting to our regional cardiac unit with acute ST‐elevation myocardial infarction requiring immediate angiography (years 1999–2017). Data on all patients is entered prospectively into a bespoke tailored database prior to knowledge of patient outcome. Only patients with TIMI 0 or 1 flow in the infarct‐related vessel were included in the analysis. In‐hospital and long‐term outcome were assessed according to the presence or absence of angiographically visible collateral flow prior to treatment of the occluded vessel.

Results

Two thousand five hundred and forty‐two patients were included in the analysis. 76% of these (n= 1944) had TIMI 0/1 flow at angiography. Angiographically‐visible collateralization was seen in 17% (n= 322) and was more commonly observed in the right coronary artery (64%) than in the left anterior descending (25%) or Cx (6%). Cardiogenic shock (10.8%) and use of an intra‐aortic balloon pump (5.4%) were more frequent in patients without coronary collateralisation (p= .04 andp= .02, respectively). The presence of collaterals improved long term survival (95% CI 11.4–18.7 months;p< .01).

Conclusion

One‐sixth of patients with STEMI have angiographically visible collaterals to the infarcted territory. Patients without collaterals are more likely to present in cardiogenic shock. The presence of angiographically visible collaterals at the time of STEMI is associated with an improved long‐term survival.
Reduced Graphene Oxide Supported NiCo2O4 Nano‐Rods: An Efficient, Stable and Cost‐Effective Electrocatalyst for Methanol Oxidation Reaction
Authors: Narayanan Naresh , Bernaurdshaw Neppolian
Published: November 2019

The development of inexpensive, highly active and non‐noble catalysts for the methanol oxidation reaction is extremely desirable for the practical use of direct‐methanol fuel cells. Here, we have developed a template‐free hydrothermal synthesis followed by calcination to produce highly active hybrid material of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) supported NiCo2O4 (NiCo2O4/rGO) nano‐rods as a non‐expensive electro‐catalyst for methanol oxidation. The electrochemical performance of the prepared NiCo2O4/rGO spinel catalyst was investigated by cyclic voltammetry (CV), chronoamperometry (CA) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) techniques. Impressively, the NiCo2O4/rGO showed greater electrocatalytic activity (78 mA/cm2) and stability during methanol oxidation in comparison to that of the commercial Pt/C catalyst, which was 3.11 folds higher than the commercial Pt/C (25.08 mA/cm2). The NiCo2O4/rGO electrode also maintained its remarkable catalytic stability even after consecutive 500 cycles, which was ∼50 times higher than that of the commercial Pt/C. The overall electroactivity of NiCo2O4/rGO was remarkably enhanced by the synergistic effect between NiCo2O4 and rGO. This may be due to the formation of mixed‐valence cations of Ni2+ and Co3+ from the octahedral sites and high electron‐transfer conductivity of rGO as well.
A Novel Earth‐Abundant W‐WC Heterojunction as Efficient Co‐Catalyst for Enhanced Photocatalytic H2Evolution
Authors: Ma Baojun , Zhang Sipeng , Wang Wei , Feng Li , Zhang Ruisheng , Lin Keying , Li Dekang , Zhan Haijuan , Yang Xu
Published: November 2019

New functional materials are of significance for the industry development of coal and tungsten. Here, we reported a novel earth‐abundant W‐WC heterojunction on CdS as an efficient and cheap co‐catalyst for photocatalytic H2evolution on CdS under visible light irradiation. The W‐WC is simply synthesized from industrial raw material of coal and ammonium tungstate by a simple one‐step calcination strategy. The photocatalytic activities tests show that W‐WC heterojunction has better co‐catalytic performance than W or WC alone, and the optimal photocatalytic activity of W‐WC/CdS reaches 3314 μmol/h/g, which are17.4 and 2.6 times larger than that of CdS and Pt/CdS alone, respectively. Electrochemical tests demonstrate the WC has large specific capacitance and acts as electron reservoir storing the photo‐excited electron from CdS, whereas W mainly acts as the catalytic center. The heterojunction formed between W and WC is favorable for the electron transferring. The different functions of W and WC along with the heterojunction between W and WC account for the superiority of W‐WC. The design and fabrication strategy of the W‐WC heterojunction co‐catalyst benefits for the industrial development of new material and photocatalysis.
pH‐Responsive Side Chains as a Tool to Control Aqueous Self‐Assembly Mechanisms
Authors: Kartha Kalathil K. , Wendler Felix , Rudolph Tobias , Biehl Philip , Fernández Gustavo , Schacher F. H.
Published: November 2019

pH‐Tunable nanoscale morphology and self‐assembly mechanism of a series of oligo(p‐phenyleneethynylene) (OPE)‐based bolaamphiphiles featuring poly(ethylene imine) (PEI) side chains of different length and degree of hydrolysis are described. Protonation and deprotonation of the PEI chains by changing the pH alters the hydrophilic/hydrophobic balance of the systems and, in turn, the strength of intermolecular interactions between the hydrophobic OPE moieties. Low pH values (3) lead to weak interaction between the OPEs and result in spherical nanoparticles, in which aggregation follows an isodesmic mechanism. In contrast, higher pH values (11) induce deprotonation of the polymer chains and lead to a stronger, cooperative aggregation into anisotropic nanostructures. Our results demonstrate that pH‐responsive chains can be exploited as a tool to tune self‐assembly mechanisms, which opens exciting possibilities to develop new stimuli‐responsive materials.
Risk factors for cardiovascular disease in 5‐year survivors of adolescent and young adult cancer: A Danish population‐based cohort study
Authors: de Fine Licht Sofie , Maraldo Maja V. , Specht Lena , Nielsen Thomas T. , Winther Jeanette F. , Rugbjerg Kathrine
Published: November 2019

Background

An increased risk of metabolic syndrome has been reported for childhood cancer survivors and for adult survivors with certain cancer types. One previous study reported on the risk for diseases in the metabolic syndrome specifically among survivors of adolescent and young adult cancers.

Methods

The study comprised 11,822 five‐year survivors of adolescent and young adult cancer (ages 15‐39 years at diagnosis) who were diagnosed during the period from 1994 through 2009 in Denmark and a population‐based comparison cohort of 76,024 individuals. The cohorts were linked to Danish nationwide registries for information on hospital contacts and purchase of prescription drugs related to metabolic syndrome, respectively. Standardized rate ratios (RRs) for hospital contacts (SHRRs) and prescriptions (SPRRs) with 95% CIs were calculated for diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and hypertension.

Results

Survivors had increased risks for hospital contacts and prescriptions for diabetes (SHRR, 1.21; 95% CI, 1.03‐1.43; SPRR, 1.08; 95% CI, 0.96‐1.23), hyperlipidemia (SHRR, 1.18; 95% CI, 1.00‐1.40; SPRR, 1.16; 95% CI, 1.08‐1.25), and hypertension (SHRR, 1.27; 95% CI, 1.15‐1.41; SPRR, 1.25; 95% CI, 1.20‐1.31). The highest risks for hospitalizations were among survivors of brain cancer (RR, 2.94 for diabetes) and Hodgkin lymphoma (RR, 2.40 for diabetes). Survivors of brain cancer and Hodgkin lymphoma were most likely to purchase prescription drugs for diseases in metabolic syndrome.

Conclusions

Survivors of adolescent and young adult cancer are at increased risk of hospital contacts and purchase of prescription drugs for diseases in metabolic syndrome. Survivors at high risk should be followed closely to improve prevention, early detection, and management of these diseases to ultimately minimize the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Diabetes mellitus among adult survivors of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia: A report from the St. Jude Lifetime Cohort Study
Authors: Williams Hannah E. , Howell Carrie R. , Chemaitilly Wassim , Wilson Carmen L. , Karol Seth E. , Nolan Vikki G. , Smeltzer Matthew P. , Green Daniel M. , Ehrhardt Matthew J. , Mulrooney Daniel A. , Pui Ching‐Hon , Hudson Melissa M. , Robison Leslie L. , Ness Kirsten K.
Published: November 2019

Background

Greater than one‐half of children who are treated for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) develop ≥1 treatment‐related medical conditions in their lifetime, many of which are known risk factors for diabetes mellitus. In the current study, the authors evaluated the prevalence and risk factors of diabetes mellitus among clinically assessed adult survivors of childhood ALL

Methods

The authors performed a retrospective evaluation of data from survivors of ALL and community controls who were enrolled in the St. Jude Lifetime Cohort Study between October 1, 2007, and June 30, 2016. Participants were adults with ≥10 years of survival of childhood ALL and community controls who completed clinical and laboratory evaluations. Data for the current analysis were abstracted from medical records. Exposures evaluated herein included chemotherapy and radiation exposures and medical history, including drug‐induced diabetes mellitus.

Results

Of 1360 eligible adults who were ≥10‐year survivors of childhood ALL, a total of 1044 completed the evaluations; these individuals had a mean age of 33.97±9.14 years and 50.86% were male. The 368 controls, 45.65% of whom were male, had a mean age of 35.33±10.21 years. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) was found in approximately 7.47% of survivors and 3.80% of controls (odds ratio [OR], 2.07; 95% CI, 1.11‐3.87). In adjusted models, among survivors, older age (OR, 1.05 for each additional year; 95% CI, 1.02‐1.08), body mass index ≥30 kg/m2 (OR, 7.40; 95% CI, 2.61‐20.97), and drug‐induced diabetes mellitus occurring during ALL therapy (OR, 4.67; 95% CI, 2.53‐8.61) were found to be associated with T2DM.

Conclusions

Adult survivors of childhood ALL are at an increased risk of T2DM. Adult survivors of childhood ALL who are of older age, with an overweight or obese body mass index, and/or who developed drug‐induced diabetes mellitus during treatment should be closely monitored for T2DM during long‐term follow‐up.
Rapid Identification of Protein‐Protein Interactions in Plants
Authors: Zhang Youjun , Natale Roberto , Domingues Adilson Pereira , Toleco Mitchell Rey , Siemiatkowska Beata , Fàbregas Norma , Fernie Alisdair R.
Published: November 2019

Enzyme‐enzyme interactions can be discovered by affinity purification mass spectrometry (AP‐MS) under in vivo conditions. Tagged enzymes can either be transiently transformed into plant leaves or stably transformed into plant cells prior to AP‐MS. The success of AP‐MS depends on the levels and stability of the bait protein, the stability of the protein‐protein interactions, and the efficiency of trypsin digestion and recovery of tryptic peptides for MS analysis. Unlike in‐gel‐digestion AP‐MS, in which the gel is cut into pieces for several independent trypsin digestions, we uses a proteomics‐based in‐solution digestion method to directly digest the proteins on the beads following affinity purification. Thus, a single replicate within an AP‐MS experiment constitutes a single sample for LC‐MS measurement. In subsequent data analysis, normalized signal intensities can be processed to determine fold‐change abundance (FC‐A) scores by use of the SAINT algorithm embedded within the CRAPome software. Following analysis of co‐sublocalization of “bait” and “prey,” we suggest considering only the protein pairs for which the intensities were more than 2% compared with the bait, corresponding to FC‐A values of at least four within‐biological replicates, which we recommend as minimum. If the procedure is faithfully followed, experimental assessment of enzyme‐enzyme interactions can be carried out in Arabidopsis within 3 weeks (transient expression) or 5 weeks (stable expression). © 2019 The Authors.

Basic Protocol 1: Gene cloning to the destination vectors

Alternate Protocol: In‐Fusion or Gibson gene cloning protocol

Basic Protocol 2: Transformation of baits into the plant cell culture or plant leaf

Basic Protocol 3: Affinity purification of protein complexes

Basic Protocol 4: On‐bead trypsin/LysC digestion and C18 column peptide desalting and concentration

Basic Protocol 5: Data analysis and quality control
Geography, seasonality, and host‐associated population structure influence the fecal microbiome of a genetically depauparate Arctic mammal
Authors: Bird Samantha , Prewer Erin , Kutz Susan , Leclerc Lisa‐Marie , Vilaça Sibelle T. , Kyle Christopher J.
Published: November 2019

The Canadian Arctic is an extreme environment with low floral and faunal diversity characterized by major seasonal shifts in temperature, moisture, and daylight. Muskoxen (Ovibos moschatus) are one of few large herbivores able to survive this harsh environment. Microbiome research of the gastrointestinal tract may hold clues as to how muskoxen exist in the Arctic, but also how this species may respond to rapid environmental changes. In this study, we investigated the effects of season (spring/summer/winter), year (2007–2016), and host genetic structure on population‐level microbiome variation in muskoxen from the Canadian Arctic. We utilized 16S rRNA gene sequencing to characterize the fecal microbial communities of 78 male muskoxen encompassing two population genetic clusters. These clusters are defined by Arctic Mainland and Island populations, including the following: (a) two mainland sampling locations of the Northwest Territories and Nunavut and (b) four locations of Victoria Island. Between these geographic populations, we found that differences in the microbiome reflected host‐associated genetic cluster with evidence of migration. Within populations, seasonality influenced bacterial diversity with no significant differences between years of sampling. We found evidence of pathogenic bacteria, with significantly higher presence in mainland samples. Our findings demonstrate the effects of seasonality and the role of host population‐level structure in driving fecal microbiome differences in a large Arctic mammal.
Impact of Residual Lead Iodide on Photophysical Properties of Lead Triiodide Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Khan Jafar I. , Sheikh Arif D. , Alamoudi Maha A. , Barrit Dounya , Ugur Esma , Laquai Frédéric , Amassian Aram
Published: November 2019

The role of residual lead iodide on the photophysical properties of methylammonium lead iodide is still unclear and contradictory views exist about its impact. Herein, it is reported that there is a critical amount of residual lead iodide, which is beneficial for the solar cell performance. Transient absorption spectroscopy is used to investigate the charge carrier recombination dynamics in perovskite solar cells and to address the role of different amounts of residual lead iodide. The amount of lead iodide is varied through the perovskite thin film preparation protocol upon a modified two‐step fabrication process. Slower carrier dynamics are observed at the perovskite/titanium dioxide interface in the presence of residual lead iodide when exciting the perovskite at the perovskite/titanium interface, which correlates with improved solar cell device performance. Excitation from the perovskite side indicates that the effect of residual lead iodide is primarily at the titanium dioxide interface. Increasing the lead iodide content does not further alter the carrier recombination; on the contrary, it results in lower device performance. This study confirms that the presence of lead iodide can have a beneficial effect, as it reduces charge carrier recombination at the perovskite/titanium dioxide interface.
A Review on Halide Perovskite Film Formation by Sequential Solution Processing for Solar Cell Applications
Authors: Bing Jueming , Huang Shujuan , Ho-Baillie Anita W. Y.
Published: November 2019

Perovskite solar cell performance is closely related to the quality of the perovskite absorbing layer which is highly dependent on deposition processes. Sequential process is shown to be effective in fabricating both single‐junction and tandem solar cells delivering comparable efficiencies compared with devices by a single‐step process. Sequence processes exhibit the benefits of controlling crystallization speed, overcoming solvent incompatibility, and greater flexibility. Here, mechanisms of film formation in two common sequential solution processes, namely chemical bath deposition and sequential spin coating, showing that film formation is highly dependent on precursors or deposition conditions, are reviewed. Herein, further review is conducted on how three main strategies improve perovskite crystallization. The first is by PbI2 complex formation or via intramolecular exchange which is shown to result in a better perovskite conversion and a more ordered perovskite growth. The second strategy is by changing the condition of perovskite precursors, e.g., by solvent, cation, halide, and additive engineering. The last strategy is by altering precursor dispensing conditions and adding vapor or solvent annealing, thereby affecting reaction conditions. Many of these strategies are demonstrated to improve perovskite film morphology with reduced defects.
A Highly Flexible Yet >300 mAh cm−3 Energy Density Lithium‐Ion Battery Assembled with the Cathode of a Redox‐Active Polyether Binder
Authors: Hatakeyama-Sato Kan , Mizukami Ryusuke , Serikawa Takuma , Oyaizu Kenichi , Nishide Hiroyuki
Published: November 2019

A highly flexible yet high‐energy‐density cathode for lithium‐ion batteries is fabricated with a novel redox‐active binder polymer composed of 2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidine 1‐oxyl (TEMPO) with vinyl ether main chain, lithium cobalt oxide, and single‐walled carbon nanotube. The cathode itself and its battery display excellent durability against repeated bending over 104 times. The highest volumetric capacity beyond 300 mAh cm−3 as a flexible electrode is achieved based on the highly adhesive and redox‐active, robust radical polyether binder. A highly flexible, only 0.5 mm‐thick, lithium‐ion battery charge/discharges repeatedly with constant output around 3.8 V even under rapid bending. Herein, the operation of flexible electronic devices with well‐balanced energy density and power‐supplying purposes is discussed.
Guidance for Design and Endpoints of Clinical Trials in Chronic Hepatitis B—Report From the 2019 EASL‐AASLD HBV Treatment Endpoints Conference
Authors: Cornberg Markus , Lok Anna Suk‐Fong , Terrault Norah A. , Zoulim Fabien ,   the 2019 EASL‐AASLD HBV Treatment Endpoints Conference Faculty
Published: November 2019

Representatives from academia, industry, regulatory agencies, and patient groups convened in March 2019 with the primary goal of developing agreement on chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) treatment endpoints to guide clinical trials aiming to “cure” HBV. Agreement among the conference participants was reached on some key points. “Functional” but not sterilising cure is achievable and should be defined as sustained HBsAg loss in addition to undetectable HBV DNA 6 months post‐treatment. The primary endpoint of phase III trials should be functional cure; HBsAg loss in ≥30% of patients was suggested as an acceptable rate of response in these trials. Sustained virologic suppression (undetectable serum HBV DNA) without HBsAg loss 6 months after discontinuation of treatment would be an intermediate goal. Demonstrated validity for the prediction of sustained HBsAg loss was considered the most appropriate criterion for the approval of new HBV assays to determine efficacy endpoints. Clinical trials aimed at HBV functional cure should initially focus on patients with HBeAg‐positive or negative chronic hepatitis, who are treatment‐naïve or virally suppressed on nucleos(t)ide analogues. A hepatitis flare associated with an increase in bilirubin or international normalised ratio should prompt temporary or permanent cessation of an investigational treatment. New treatments must be as safe as existing nucleos(t)ide analogues. The primary endpoint for phase III trials for HDV coinfection should be undetectable serum HDV RNA 6 months after stopping treatment. On treatment HDV RNA suppression associated with normalisation of alanine aminotransferase is considered an intermediate goal. In conclusion, regarding HBV “functional cure”, the primary goal is sustained HBsAg loss with undetectable HBV DNA after completion of treatment and the intermediate goal is sustained undetectable HBV DNA without HBsAg loss after stopping treatment.
Inactivation of ATRX in forebrain excitatory neurons affects hippocampal synaptic plasticity
Authors: Gugustea Radu , Tamming Renee J. , Martin‐Kenny Nicole , Bérubé Nathalie G. , Leung L. Stan
Published: November 2019

α‐Thalassemia X‐linked intellectual disability (ATR‐X) syndrome is a neurodevelopmental disorder caused by mutations in the ATRX gene that encodes a SNF2‐type chromatin‐remodeling protein. The ATRX protein regulates chromatin structure and gene expression in the developing mouse brain and early inactivation leads to DNA replication stress, extensive cell death, and microcephaly. However, the outcome of Atrx loss of function postnatally in neurons is less well understood. We recently reported that conditional inactivation of Atrx in postnatal forebrain excitatory neurons (ATRX‐cKO) causes deficits in long‐term hippocampus‐dependent spatial memory. Thus, we hypothesized that ATRX‐cKO mice will display impaired hippocampal synaptic transmission and plasticity. In the present study, evoked field potentials and current source density analysis were recorded from a multichannel electrode in male, urethane‐anesthetized mice. Three major excitatory synapses, the Schaffer collaterals to basal dendrites and proximal apical dendrites, and the temporoammonic path to distal apical dendrites on hippocampal CA1 pyramidal cells were assessed by their baseline synaptic transmission, including paired‐pulse facilitation (PPF) at 50‐ms interpulse interval, and by their long‐term potentiation (LTP) induced by theta‐frequency burst stimulation. Baseline single‐pulse excitatory response at each synapse did not differ between ATRX‐cKO and control mice, but baseline PPF was reduced at the CA1 basal dendritic synapse in ATRX‐cKO mice. While basal dendritic LTP of the first‐pulse excitatory response was not affected in ATRX‐cKO mice, proximal and distal apical dendritic LTP were marginally and significantly reduced, respectively. These results suggest that ATRX is required in excitatory neurons of the forebrain to achieve normal hippocampal LTP and PPF at the CA1 apical and basal dendritic synapses, respectively. Such alterations in hippocampal synaptic transmission and plasticity could explain the long‐term spatial memory deficits in ATRX‐cKO mice and provide insight into the physiological mechanisms underlying intellectual disability in ATR‐X syndrome patients.
Assessing perceived quality of primary care under hospital‐township health centre integration: A cross‐sectional study in China
Authors: Yuan Shasha , Wang Fang , Zhao Yan , Liu Yun
Published: November 2019

Since the new round of health care reform in 2009, the vertical integration of hospitals and primary health institutions has become widely implemented in China as an efficient method for improving quality of primary care. This study aimed to answer the following questions: (a) What is the perceived quality of township health centres (THCs) under integration? (B) What differences could be observed among the three typical integration models, namely, private hospital‐THC integration, public hospital‐THC integration, and loose collaboration? Two rounds of cross‐sectional surveys were conducted from November 2016 to June 2018. The Chinese version of the Primary Care Assessment Tool was used to evaluate perceived quality of sample THCs, and 1118 adult patients were interviewed in total. Multiple linear regressions were employed to compare the quality scores between two survey rounds and among different integration models after controlling for potential confounders. The results revealed that the quality of care significantly improved under private hospital‐THC integration as observed by comparing two survey rounds, while no change or slight changes were observed in the other two models. The difference observed among the three models was that the perceived quality of THCs integrated with private hospitals was worse than that of THCs integrated with public hospitals and THCs under loose collaboration, while no significant difference was observed between public hospital‐THC integration and loose collaboration. Increased attention should be given to highlighting the tight integration between hospitals and THCs and the different roles played by private and public hospitals in the current reform.
Dynamic correlation and volatility spillovers across Chinese stock and commodity futures markets
Authors: Kang Sang Hoon , Yoon Seong‐Min
Published: November 2019

This paper examines the return links and volatility transmission between Chinese stock and commodity futures markets and draws implications for portfolio risk management. To these ends, we consider three vector autoregression‐multivariate generalized autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity‐class models with which to model volatilities and conditional correlations between Chinese stock and three commodity futures markets. Our empirical results reveal evidence of return linkage and volatility transmission between the Chinese stock and commodity futures markets. We also analyse optimal portfolio weights and hedging ratios between s1tock–commodity pairs. Finally, we assess implications for mixed commodity–stock portfolios and find strong evidence of hedging effectiveness and downside risk reductions.
Van der Waals magnets: Wonder building blocks for two‐dimensional spintronics?
Authors: Zhang Wen , Wong Ping Kwan Johnny , Zhu Rui , Wee Andrew T. S.
Published: November 2019

The unprecedented realization of two‐dimensional (2D) van der Waals magnets excitingly extends the synergy between spintronics and 2D materials, started with graphene over the last decade. This article reviews the recent milestones in the development of 2D magnets and its derived heterostructures. In particular, a number of critical challenges centered around the scalability, ambient stability and Curie temperature of these atomically thin magnets are discussed. This mini‐review also provides an outlook on what the future might hold for this integrated field of 2D spintronics, and assesses its potential in postsilicon electronics.
Cholesterol grafted cationic lipopolymers: Potential siRNA carriers for selective chronic myeloid leukemia therapy
Authors: Remant KC , Thapa Bindu , Valencia‐Serna Juliana , Domun Suraj S. , Dimitroff Cailean , Jiang Xiaoyan , Uludağ Hasan
Published: November 2019

Synthetic siRNA technology has emerged as a promising approach for molecular therapy of cancer but, despite its potential for post‐transcriptional gene silencing, there is an urgent need to develop efficient delivery systems particularly for difficult‐to‐transfect, anchorage‐independent cells. In this study, we designed highly hydrophobic cationic lipopolymers by grafting cholesterol (Chol) onto low‐molecular weight (0.6, 1.2, and 2.0 kDa) polyethylenimines (PEIs) to enable specific siRNA therapy to chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) cells. The siRNA binding by PEI‐Chol led to nano‐sized (100–200 nm diameter) polyplexes with enhanced ζ‐potential (+20 to +35 mV) and ability to protect the loaded siRNA completely in fresh serum. The siRNA delivery to CML (K562) cells was proportional to degree of substitution and, unexpectedly, inversely proportional to molecular size of the polymeric backbone. Chol grafting with as little as ~1.0 Chol/PEI on 0.6 and 1.2 kDa PEIs enabled silencing of the reporter Green Fluorescent Protein gene as well as the endogenous BCR‐Abl oncogene in K562 cells. The PEI‐Chol mediated delivery of siRNAs specific for BCR‐Abl and KSP genes significantly arrested the growth the cells which was significantly reflected in colony formation potency of K562 cells. BCR‐Able siRNA mediated therapeutic efficacy was also observed in significantly increased caspase activity and apoptosis of K562 cells. Thus, Chol‐grafted low‐molecular weight PEIs appear to be unique siRNA carriers to realize the molecular therapy in CML cells.