bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of a hand‐held spectrophotometer as an in‐field phenotyping tool for tomato and pepper fruit quality
Authors: Kaur Amanjot , Donis‐Gonzalez Irwin R. , St. Clair Dina A.
Published: June 2020

Phenotyping for vegetable fruit quality traits can involve laborious postharvest and biochemical assays, decreasing efficiency of data collection. Portable devices that are easy to use and withstand in‐field conditions to non‐destructively and accurately quantify internal fruit quality traits would greatly enhance efficiency in breeding programs. We evaluated a hand‐held quality spectrophotometer, the Felix‐750, as an in‐field tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) and pepper (Capsicum annuum) high‐throughput phenotyping tool. Fruit quality traits included pH, soluble solids, carotenoids, and shrink in germplasm grown in replicated split‐plot field trials. Germplasm included elite inbred cultivars and introgression lines of tomato, and diverse hybrid and open‐pollinated cultivars of pepper. Our study employed a multi‐faceted approach to evaluate the use of the Felix‐750 in a plant breeding program. Our approach included chemometrics and trait‐based partial least squares regression modeling, and examination of patterns in the λ‐specific spectroscopy data based on variables relevant to genetic, fruit, and environmental factors using principal component analysis and biplots. Results of our study revealed: (a) the scope and limitations of the Felix‐750 in fruit quality trait assessment based on the range of predictive power of partial least squares models; (b) insights into the complex relationships of spectroscopy data with genetic diversity, fruit biology and biochemistry, and factors related to environment. Additional research on the Felix‐750 is needed to determine its potential applications at early and later stages of a breeding pipeline. We also suggest researchers explore more advanced chemometric tools and 3‐D fruit hyperspectral imaging approaches.
Health‐related quality of life in patients with bronchiolitis obliterans
Authors: Atag Emine , Bas Ikizoglu Nilay , Ergenekon Pinar , Kalin Sevinc , Unal Füsun , Gokdemir Yasemin , Erdem Eralp Ela , Yalcin Koray , Oktem Sedat , Ersu Refika , Karakoc Fazilet , Karadag Bulent
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Bronchiolitis obliterans (BO) is mainly caused by infections and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). This study aimed to investigate the health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) of children with BO compared to the healthy children and also to assess the HRQOL according to the etiology.

Methods

Postinfectious (group 1) and post‐HSCT BO (group 2) patients and healthy children were included in the study. HRQOL was assessed by the Short Form‐36 (SF‐36) and St George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ). Correlations between demographic and clinical characteristics, pulmonary function tests, high‐resolution chest tomography scores, and HRQOL were assessed.

Results

Thirty‐seven postinfectious and post‐HSCT BO patients and 34 healthy children were included in the study. Mean age was 13.8 ± 0.7 years. Mean forced vital capacity and forced expiratory volume1 were 60.7 ± 2.7% predicted, and 49.8 ± 3.1% predicted, respectively. The SF‐36 scores were lower in BO patients compared to healthy children (P < .01). Patients with better lung functions had higher SF‐36 scores, but lower SGRQ. The number of inhaled therapies, acute exacerbations, hospitalizations were inversely correlated with SF‐36. A positive correlation was found between these parameters and total SGRQ scores (r = .507, P = .02; r = .409, P = .12; r = .326, P = .049, respectively). SF‐36 scores were better in group 1 for subscales of physical role functioning and social role functioning compared to group 2. (P = .01, P = .01, respectively).

Conclusion

The HRQOL of patients with BO measured by SF‐36 was low compared to healthy children. SF‐36 scores were more affected in post‐HSCT BO patients. HRQOL of children with chronic lung disease should be taken into consideration in the management of these patients.
Observation of Liquid Phase Synthesis of Sulfide Solid Electrolytes Using Time‐Resolved Pair Distribution Function Analysis
Authors: Ohara Koji , Masuda Naoya , Yamaguchi Hiroshi , Yao Atsushi , Tominaka Satoshi , Yamada Hiroki , Hiroi Satoshi , Takahashi Masakuni , Yamamoto Kentaro , Wakihara Toru , Uchimoto Yoshiharu , Utsuno Futoshi , Kimura Shigeru
Published: June 2020

Time‐resolved pair distribution function (PDF) analysis is performed to clarify the formation mechanism of Li3PS4 sulfide solid electrolytes in liquid phase synthesis with acetonitrile (AN), tetrahydrofuran (THF), and ethyl acetate (EA) solvents. This aims to clarify the relationship between their formations and lithium ionic conductivity. A complex is formed between the precursor of the sulfide solid electrolyte and each solvent during the liquid phase synthesis. The ratio of the solvent to the electrolyte is 3.03 in THF solution. The formation speed of precursors of sulfide solid electrolytes increases in the order AN < THF < EA solution, which is the same order as the lithium ionic conductivity. Thus, the correlation between the ionic conductivity and the formation rate of the precursor of the sulfide solid electrolyte might be related to the stability of the complex formed between Li3PS4 and the solvent during liquid phase synthesis.
MR plot: A big data tool for distinguishing distributions
Authors: Ardakani Omid M. , Asadi Majid , Ebrahimi Nader , Soofi Ehsan S.
Published: June 2020

Big data enables reliable estimation of continuous probability density, cumulative distribution, survival, hazard rate, and mean residual functions (MRFs). We illustrate that plot of the MRF provides the best resolution for distinguishing between distributions. At each point, the MRF gives the mean excess of the data beyond the threshold. Graph of the empirical MRF, called here the MR plot, provides an effective visualization tool. A variety of theoretical and data driven examples illustrate that MR plots of big data preserve the shape of the MRF and complex models require bigger data. The MRF is an optimal predictor of the excess of the random variable. With a suitable prior, the expected MRF gives the Bayes risk in the form of the entropy functional of the survival function, called here the survival entropy. We show that the survival entropy is dominated by the standard deviation (SD) and the equality between the two measures characterizes the exponential distribution. The empirical survival entropy provides a data concentration statistic which is strongly consistent, easy to compute, and less sensitive than the SD to heavy tailed data. An application uses the New York City Taxi database with millions of trip times to illustrate the MR plot as a powerful tool for distinguishing distributions.
Organic surface modification and analysis of titania nanoparticles for self‐assembly in multiple layers
Authors: Hodoroaba Vasile‐Dan , Rades Steffi , Borghetti Patrizia , Ortel Erik , Wirth Thomas , García Sarai , Gómez Estíbaliz , Blanco Miren , Alberto Gabriele , Martra Gianmario
Published: June 2020

The characteristics of TiO2 coatings can greatly influence their final performance in large‐scale applications. In the present study, self‐assembly of TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) in multiple layers was selected as a deposition procedure on various substrates. For this, the main prerequisite constitutes the surface modification of both NPs and substrate with, for example, silane coupling agents. A set of functionalized TiO2 NPs has been produced by reaction with either (3‐aminopropyl)triethoxysilane (APTES) or (3‐aminopropyl)phosphonic acid (APPA) to functionalize the NP surface with free amino‐groups. Then, the complementary functionalized NP set can be obtained from an aliquot of the first one, through the conversion of free surface amino groups to aldehydes by reaction with glutaraldehyde (GA). Several types of TiO2 NPs differing in size, shape, and specific surface area have been functionalized. Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), SEM/ energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS), XPS, Auger electron spectroscopy (AES), and Time‐of‐Flight (ToF)‐SIMS analyses have been carried out to evaluate the degree of functionalization, all the analytical methods employed demonstrating successful functionalization of TiO2 NP surface with APTES or APPA and GA.
Efficient Hydrolysis of Sodium Borohydride by Co‐B Supported on Nitrogen‐doped Carbon
Authors: Xu Jianan , Du Xuexun , Wei Qinglian , Huang Yongmin
Published: June 2020

In this work, dehydrogenation of NaBH4 in alkaline solutions was catalyzed by amorphous Co‐B catalysts supported on nitrogen doped carbon (N‐C) that is rarely utilized in this field. The physicochemical properties of the as‐prepared catalysts were characterized by X‐ray Diffraction (XRD), Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM), High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HRTEM), X‐ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), Raman Spectroscopy and BET (Brunner−Emmet−Teller) measurements. Among all the catalysts made in this paper, Co‐B/N‐C‐700 exhibited best activity, which is likely to be attributed to the possession of more metal Co as active sites. The hydrogen generation rate (HGR) reached 2649 ml H2 min−1 g−1cat in 10 wt. % NaOH + 10 wt. % NaBH4 solution at 30 °C. The value of activation energy is 37.57 kJ mol−1 and compares favorably with values of some previous reports. Besides, influences of NaOH concentration, NaBH4 concentration, temperature, recycle times and amount of catalyst for the catalytic performance of Co‐B/N‐C‐700 were also investigated to reflect more on hydrolysis of sodium borohydride.
Investigation on Deactivation of K‐promoted Ru Catalyst for Ammonia Synthesis by CO Formation
Authors: Ni Jun , Ran Haiyun , Lin Jianxin , Wang Xiuyun , Lin Bingyu , Jiang Lilong
Published: June 2020

The prevailing view of the deactivation of carbon‐supported Ru catalyst in ammonia synthesis is carbon methanation, but those strategies focusing on inhibiting carbon methanation cannot effectively solve the challenge of Ru/C catalysts. Herein we prepared four K‐promoted Ru catalysts with different Ru loadings and treated the samples at 450 or 500 °C under 1 MPa during ammonia synthesis reaction. The result showed that the presence of a larger amount of Ru species enhanced methane formation at the reaction temperature, which was irrelevant to the loss in activity of ammonia synthesis. On the contrary, CO formation along with a great decline in catalytic activity can be observed when Ru catalysts are heated at 500 °C. The characterization results indicated that the severe depletion of surface oxygen groups following the CO‐formation pathway, resulting in the notable decrease in the amount of gas adsorption, contributed to the deactivation of carbon‐supported Ru catalyst.
Highly Efficient and Selective Adsorption of Cationic Dyes in Aqueous Media on Microporous Hyper Crosslinked Polymer with Abundant and Evenly Dispersed Sulfonic Groups
Authors: Xiong Gang , Zhang Qian , Ren Baoyi , You Lixin , Ding Fu , He Yongke , Fan Xiaolei , Wang Na , Sun Yaguang
Published: June 2020

To significantly promote the adsorption efficiency of dyes from aqueous media, a microporous hyper‐crosslinked polymer with abundant and evenly‐dispersed sulfonic groups acted as efficient and selective sites (HCP‐1) was synthesized via Friedel‐Crafts alkylation reaction from a simple Schiff‐based monomer containing sulfonic groups. HCP‐1 possessed micro‐plate morphology with the thickness of about 200 nm and high specific surface area of ∼1,111 m2 g−1. HCP‐1 displayed good adsorption capacities toward cationic dyes methylene blue (MB, 1,602.2 mg g−1) and basic blue 7 (BB7, 496.7 mg g−1) at 25 °C, but no adsorption capacity to anionic dye methyl orange (MO), showing charge selectivity. The pseudo‐second‐order kinetic model and Langmuir isotherm model were suitable for the describing adsorption process. The negative ΔG0 values and the positive ΔH0 values indicated that adsorption was spontaneous and endothermic. HCP‐1 still maintained adsorption efficiency of above 96% during five cycles. On the whole, HCP‐1 is an efficient and promising material in the future research and application in the purification of water polluted by cationic dyes. Furthermore, this work also develops a new strategy to directly synthesize porous HCPs containing abundant and evenly‐dispersed sulfonic groups on inner surface by designing suitable organic monomers.
First Total Synthesis of Two 1‐O‐Alkylglycerols Based Alkyne Analogues of Bioactive Natural Products
Authors: Momha René , Njock Gaétan Bayiha Ba , Pegnyemb Dieudonné Emmanuel , Mosset Paul
Published: June 2020

Alkylglycerols (AKGs) with a straight‐chain alkane or alkene are ether lipids abundant in the liver oil of some elasmobranch fish species such as ratfishes and some sharks. Natural shark liver oil (SLO) mixture displays several known biological activities and most of its identified alkylglycerols were also obtained individually in pure form by total synthesis. However, the synthesis of alkylglycerols containing at least one alkyne moiety in the alkyl chain has yet not been reported. In this work, we describe the first total synthesis of 1‐O‐alkylglycerols based alkyne (2S)‐3‐((4‐methoxytridec‐6‐yn‐1‐yl)oxy)propane‐1,2‐diol (10) and (S)‐3‐(((R)‐12‐methoxyoctadec‐9‐yn‐1‐yl)oxy)propane‐1,2‐diol (11), analogues of bioactive ether lipids found in the SLO mixture. Oxiranes opening by alkynyl boranes and solketal etherification are the key steps with a global yield up to 72 % in eight steps sequence.
Dimerization of Aromatic Terminal Alkynes Featuring Hydrophilic Functional Groups under Ruthenium and Acid Promoted Catalysis. Competitive Alkyne Hydration upon Substituent Effect
Authors: Iona Roberto , Bassetti Mauro
Published: June 2020

The self‐coupling (hydroalkynylation) process of aromatic terminal alkynes RC6H4C≡CH to give dimeric 1,4‐diaryl‐1‐en‐3‐yne products (trans‐RC6H4C≡CCH=CHC6H4R) is catalyzed by the complex [{RuCl(μ‐Cl)(η6‐p‐cymene)}2] with sodium acetate co‐catalyst dissolved in neat acetic acid, the reaction proceeding with high trans‐stereoselectivity under mild conditions (r.t.) even for substrates with protic or polar substituent groups (e. g. R=3‐OH, 4‐CH2OH, 4‐NHAc, ‐CHO, 4‐tetra‐O‐acetyl‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside). In presence of strongly electron donating arene substituents, NMe2 and NH2, the triple bond is activated toward exclusive triple bond hydration by reaction with acetic acid at room temperature also in absence of the ruthenium catalyst.
Stable Perovskite Solar Cells Enabled by Simultaneous Surface and Bulk Defects Passivation
Authors: Liu Kaikai , Xie Liqiang , Song Peiquan , Lin Kebin , Shen Lina , Liang Yuming , Lu Jianxun , Feng Wenjing , Guan Xiang , Yan Chuanzhong , Tian Chengbo , Wei Zhanhua
Published: June 2020

It is challenging to passivate defects that are buried in the depth of perovskite films; most of the reported passivation methods cannot reach the deep defects. Herein, methanol is adopted as a dual‐functional reagent to not only act as a solvent but also help the dissolved ions penetrate the depth of perovskite films. By treating the as‐prepared perovskite films with CsBr/methanol solution, Br− ions can react with the undercoordinated Pb2+, and Cs+ ions can fill in the cation vacancies. This strategy enables surface and bulk defects passivation to be achieved simultaneously. The nonradiative recombination of the double‐passivated devices is significantly suppressed and the migration of charged defects is remarkably hindered. As a result, an improved power conversion efficiency of 19.5% and an open‐circuit voltage of 1.183 V is achieved. Moreover, the passivated device can retain ≈80% of the initial efficiency after working for 500 h at maximum power point under 1‐sun illumination, whereas the pristine device reaches 80% of the initial efficiency after only 90 h. This work demonstrates that surface and bulk defects passivation is critical to improve the efficiency and long‐term operational stability of the perovskite solar cells.
Simultaneous size and topology optimization of 3D outrigger‐braced tall buildings with inclined belt truss using genetic algorithm
Authors: Farahmand‐Tabar Salar , Ashtari Payam
Published: June 2020

To investigate the optimum location of the outrigger system, a metaheuristic‐based size and topology optimization of the outrigger‐braced tall buildings is carried out by various three‐dimensional structural frames with different shapes of belt trusses. By considering the elastic behavior, the whole elements of the structural models such as beams, columns, core, and trusses are optimized simultaneously in conjunction with the location of the outrigger. Furthermore, to reach more optimality, several novel types of belt truss are proposed having inclined and inverse‐inclined belt trusses with better structural and architectural features and optimum performance in comparison with the horizontal one. Different models with 25 to 40 stories having various span numbers are optimized using the genetic algorithm, and the results are compared with each other. In the modeling process, the exact wind load distribution is applied to the structure based on the ASCE7‐16 rather than the uniform or triangular ones. According to the results, the optimum cross‐sectional size and outrigger locations of different models are obtained, and it is indicated that the proposed novel belt trusses are optimal solution for the problem.
Prevalence of COL4A1 and COL4A2 mutations in severe fetal multifocal hemorrhagic and/or ischemic cerebral lesions
Authors: Maurice P. , Guilbaud L. , Garel J. , Mine M. , Dugas A. , Friszer S. , Maisonneuve E. , Moutard M.‐L. , Coste T. , Héron D. , Tournier‐Lasserve E. , Garel C. , Jouannic J.‐M.
Published: June 2020

Objective

To establish the prevalence of COL4A1 and COL4A2 gene mutations in fetuses presenting with a phenotype suggestive of cerebral injury.

Methods

This was a single‐center retrospective analysis of all cases of fetal cerebral anomalies suggestive of COL4A1 or COL4A2 gene mutation over the period 2009–2018. Inclusion criteria were: (1) severe and/or multifocal hemorrhagic cerebral lesions; (2) multifocal ischemic‐hemorrhagic cerebral lesions. These anomalies could be of different ages and associated with schizencephaly or porencephaly. Between fetuses with and those without a mutation, we compared gestational age at the time of diagnosis, parity and fetal gender.

Results

Among the 956 cases of cerebral anomaly diagnosed in our center during the 10‐year study period, 18 fetuses were identified for inclusion. A pathogenic COL4A1 gene mutation was found in five of these cases, among which four were de‐novo mutations. A variant of unknown significance was found in four fetuses: in the COL4A1 gene in one case and in the COL4A2 gene in three cases. No COL4A1 or COL4A2 mutation was found in the remaining nine fetuses. The median (interquartile range) gestational age at diagnosis was significantly lower in cases with a mutation (24 (22–26) weeks) than in cases without a mutation (32 (29.5–34.5) weeks) (P = 0.03).

Conclusions

A phenotype suggestive of cerebral injury was found in 18 of the 956 (1.9%) cases in our population, in 28% of which there was an associated COL4A1 or COL4A2 mutation. COL4A1 and COL4A2 gene mutations should be sought systematically in cases of severe and/or multifocal hemorrhagic or ischemic‐hemorrhagic cerebral lesions, with or without schizencephaly or porencephaly. © 2020 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Artificial neural networks applied to the classification of hair samples according to pigment and sex using non‐invasive analytical techniques
Authors: Berto Tamires Messias , Santos Mônica Cardoso , Pereira Fabíola Manhas Verbi , Filletti Érica Regina
Published: June 2020

In this study, we investigated the possibility of using an artificial neural network (ANN) to classify human hair samples according to pigment (original or bleached hair) and sex (female or male) from numerical data obtained by wavelength dispersive X‐ray fluorescence (WDXRF) and by laser‐induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS). The results were promising, showing that the developed ANNs are able to classify the pigment and donor sex of hair samples with 100% and 89.5% accuracy, respectively, in the test set using WDXRF data. For the LIBS data in the test set, 100% of the pigment classifications were correct, and 78.9% of the donor sex classifications were correct.
Zintl Defects in Intermetallic Clathrates
Authors: Baitinger Michael , Böhme Bodo , Wagner Frank R. , Schwarz Ulrich
Published: June 2020

In many cases, idealized crystal structure models cannot rationalize the actual properties of intermetallic compounds. For a realistic approach in materials research, microstructures and defects need to be taken into account. In case of clathrate compounds, particularly the intrinsic framework vacancies (denoted as Zintl defects) demand consideration. Consequently, clathrate research produces evidence that modern‐day structure chemistry involves the utilization of advanced X‐ray diffraction methods combined with elaborated bulk phase analyses, the investigation of phase relations, and the study of mutual interrelations in the triangle chemical bonding–structure–properties. Herein, we review some fundamental contributions to the specific defect chemistry of intermetallic clathrates.
Mononuclear High‐spin Octahedral Cobalt(II) Complex with Positive Axial Magnetic Anisotropy: Synthesis, Crystal Structure, and DFT Studies
Authors: Muddassir Mohd , Alarifi Abdullah , Afzal Mohd , Alowais Ahmad , Abduh Naaser A. Y.
Published: June 2020

This article outlines the magnetic features of a new six–coordinate high‐spin cobalt(II) complex cis‐[CoII(tmphen)2(NCS)2] (1) achieved via the reactions of cobalt(II) thiocyanate with 3,4,7,8‐tetramethyl‐1,10‐phenanthroline. The complex 1 was thoroughly characterized by different analytical and spectroscopic techniques and further confirmed by single X‐ray crystal diffraction pattern. Complex 1 is a neutral molecule and adopt highly distorted six‐coordinate CoN6 octahedral coordination sphere surrounded by two thiocyanate N atoms in cis locations and the equatorial plane is occupied by two imine N atoms from the two tmphen ligand while the remaining two imine N atoms reside in the axial positions. Magnetic susceptibility data of complex 1 revealed that the χΜT values decrease significantly to a value of 1.49 cm3·K·mol–1 at 2.0 K on decreasing temperatures below 100 K, mainly ascribed to the significant spin–orbit coupling (SOC) of six‐coordinate CoII ions. Furthermore, a field‐dependence measurement was performed at 2 K, which shows a positive curvature up to 27 kOe, while it becomes linear up to 2.01 NμB, which authenticated the fact that only the lowest Kramers doublet of ground state is appreciably populated.
Holographic Imaging and Tomography of Biological Cells and Tissues
Authors: Salditt Tim , Töpperwien Mareike
Published: June 2020

This chapter reviews recent progress in propagation-based phase-contrast imaging and tomography of biological matter. We include both inhouse µ-CT results recorded in the direct-contrast regime of propagation imaging (large Fresnel numbers F), as well as nanoscale phase contrast in the holographic regime with synchrotron radiation. The current imaging capabilities starting from the cellular level all the way to small animal imaging are illustrated by recent examples of our group, with an emphasis on 3D histology.
Scanning Small-Angle X-ray Scattering and Coherent X-ray Imaging of Cells
Authors: Salditt Tim , Köster Sarah
Published: June 2020

In this chapter we review recent work towards high resolution imaging of unstained biological cells in the hydrated and living state, using synchrotron radiation (SR) and free electron laser (FEL) radiation. Specifically, we discuss the approaches of scanning small-angle X-ray scattering (scanning SAXS) and coherent diffractive X-ray imaging (CDI) of cells.
Development of Ultrafast X-ray Free Electron Laser Tools in (Bio)Chemical Research
Authors: Techert Simone , Thekku Veedu Sreevidya , Bari Sadia
Published: June 2020

The chapter will focus on fundamental aspects and methodological challenges of X-ray free electron laser research and recent developments in the related field of ultrafast X-ray science. Selected examples proving “molecular movie capabilities” of Free-electron laser radiation investigating gas phase chemistry, chemistry in liquids and transformations in the solid state will be introduced. They will be discussed in the context of ultrafast X-ray studies of complex biochemical research, and time-resolved X-ray characterisation of energy storage materials and energy bionics.
Polarization-Sensitive Coherent Diffractive Imaging Using HHG
Authors: Zayko Sergey , Kfir Ofer , Ropers Claus
Published: June 2020

High harmonic generation (HHG) from lasers have attractive properties for probing ultrafast dynamics at the nanoscale. The spectral range of high harmonics at the extreme-UV and soft-X-rays ($$\lambda \sim $$

λ
∼

100 nm–1 nm, $$\hbar \omega \sim $$

ħ
ω
∼

10 eV–1 keV) enables element specificity, the short wavelengths combined with high spatial coherence allows for imaging with nanometric spatial resolution, the extremely short pulse durations provide access to dynamics faster than a femtosecond ($$1 \ fs = 10^{-15}$$

1

f
s
=

10

-
15

s), and all that, on a compact system. In this chapter, we focus on experimental aspects of imaging with high harmonics. First, we present the experimental system and the image reconstruction procedure. Second, we show experimental results from the various configurations that were used throughout this project. Finally, we discuss mechanisms that played an important role in this imaging effort, and would contribute to the advancement of nanoscale imaging.
Nonlinear Light Generation in Localized Fields Using Gases and Tailored Solids
Authors: Sivis Murat , Ropers Claus
Published: June 2020

In Chap. 10.1007/978-3-030-34413-9_18, we demonstrated polarization-sensitive imaging at extreme-ultraviolet (EUV) wavelengths using a gas-phase high-harmonic generation (HHG) source. In a related project, we have investigated new types of gas-phase and solid-state EUV light sources employing field localization in plasmonic nanostructures and structured targets. Whereas our first results indicate that strong field confinement leads to exceedingly inefficient high-harmonic generation in gas-phase targets, for solid-state media efficient high-harmonic generation is possible in localized fields. The latter has great ramifications for new types of high-harmonic generation experiments and technological developments. Therefore, our research efforts aim in two directions: firstly, the development of new types of solid-state sources for high-harmonic generation and, secondly, the application of locally generated solid-state high-harmonic signals for spectroscopy and imaging.
Convergence Analysis of Iterative Algorithms for Phase Retrieval
Authors: Luke D. Russell , Martins Anna-Lena
Published: June 2020

This chapter surveys the analysis of the phase retrieval problem as an inconsistent and nonconvex feasibility problem. We apply a convergence framework for iterative mappings developed by Luke, Tam and Thao in 2018 to the inconsistent and nonconvex phase retrieval problem and establish the convergence properties (with rates) of popular projection methods for this problem. Although our main purpose is to illustrate the convergence results and their underlying concepts, we demonstrate how our theoretical analysis aligns with practical numerical computation applied to laboratory data.
Statistical Foundations of Nanoscale Photonic Imaging
Authors: Munk Axel , Staudt Thomas , Werner Frank
Published: June 2020

In this chapter different statistical models for the observations in nanoscale photonic imaging are discussed. While providing models of increasing accuracy and complexity, we develop a guideline which model should be chosen in practice depending on the total number of detected photons as well as their spatial and temporal dependency structure. We focus on different Gaussian, Poissonian, Bernoulli and Binomial models and link them to projects treated within the SFB 755.
Quantifying Molecule Numbers in STED/RESOLFT Fluorescence Nanoscopy
Authors: Keller-Findeisen Jan , Sahl Steffen J. , Hell Stefan W.
Published: June 2020

Quantification of the numbers of molecules of interest in the specimen has emerged as a powerful capability of several fluorescence nanoscopy approaches. Carefully relating the measured signals from STED or RESOLFT scanning nanoscopy data to the contribution of a single molecule, reliable estimates of fluorescent molecule numbers can be obtained. To achieve this, higher-order signatures in the obtained photon statistics are analyzed, as arise from the antibunched nature of single-fluorophore emissions or in the signal variance among multiple on/off-switching cycles. In this chapter, we discuss the concepts and approaches demonstrated to date for counting molecules in STED/RESOLFT nanoscopy.
Healing Mainstream Health: Building Understanding and Respect for Indigenous Knowledges
Authors: Rix Liz , Rotumah Darlene
Published: June 2020

We first encountered one another around a decade ago when sharing an office at a rural health campus of The University of Sydney, where both of us were working on health research projects. From that first meeting we were intuitively drawn to each other, and soon discovered shared interests, and some surprisingly common perspectives and opinions on health services, seen with an Indigenous Australian lens.
The Sydney Language on Our Campuses and in Our Curriculum
Authors: Quinnell Rosanne , Troy Jakelin , Poll Matthew
Published: June 2020

Now my motivations … so, my aspirations for all of this is of course first and foremost, I want to learn my own language again, I want to have that knowledge point. People ask me how to speak, “do you speak Aboriginal?” I feel like that’s a really weird question, but yes, I can. Second of all, I want to bring that back to my family.
Students and Academics Working in Partnership to Embed Cultural Competence as a Graduate Quality
Authors: Bell Amani , Barahona Stephanie , Beg Gulnaz , Coulson Susan , Eymont Roman , Hartman Jodie , Hubble Tom , Leung Natalie , McDonnell Michael A. , Ni Jiaru , Peseta Tai , Sakhaee Ehssan , Uptin Jonnell
Published: June 2020

Since 2014, the University of Sydney has been experimenting with a new initiative motivated by the research on “students as partners”. In 2014, six students were selected as Ambassadors of the Sydney Teaching ColloquiumSydney Teaching Colloquium (STC)—the University’s annual learning and teaching conference—as undergraduate researchers. In that year, the focus was on assessment standards.
Embedding Cultural Competence in Science Curricula
Authors: Cross Rebecca , Bone Elisa , Ampt Peter , Bell Tina , Quinnell Rosanne , Gongora Jaime
Published: June 2020

Effectively incorporating cultural competence into tertiary institutions is paramount to the creation of cross-cultural settings where undergraduates and academics can develop understandings of how culture and belief systems influence professional decision making. Processes that incorporate cultural competence are viewed as particularly challenging in science disciplines, particularly non-vocational science disciplines where “western” or reductivist ways of teaching and “doing” science remain dominant.
Learning Through Reflection—Enhancing Culturally Proficient Learning Communities in Midwifery Practice and Education: An Experience-Based Learning Journey in London, UK
Authors: Haora Penny
Published: June 2020

This reflective narrative shares an experience of immersion at the highly political “intersectional” coalface of gendered, class and racially based maternity services research, practice and learning in London, UK. I initially set out to apply Levin & Greenwoods’ (Handbook of action research: participative inquiry and practice. SAGE, London, 2001, p. 103) “pragmatic action research” approach to transform a small component of universities and health services into “learning communities”.
Future Directions: Cultural Competence and the Higher Education Sector
Authors: Frawley Jack , Russell Gabrielle , Sherwood Juanita
Published: June 2020

In one sense or another, the chapters in this book have all acknowledged that cultural competence is a set of behaviours, attitudes and/or policies that come together in the higher education sector or among professional and academic staff, and students enabling them to operate efficiently in intercultural contexts (Cross, Bazron, Dennis, & Isaacs in Towards a culturally competent system of care: a monograph on effective services for minority children who are severely emotionally disturbed. Child and Adolescent Service System Program Technical Assistance Center, Georgetown University Child Development Center, Washington, DC, 1989).
Locating Human Rights in the Cultural Competence Context
Authors: Johnston Michael
Published: June 2020

In settler-colonial countries, where European powers have forcibly established themselves on top of pre-existing Indigenous societies, formally recognising Indigenous sovereignty and supporting Indigenous self-determination should be central to the philosophy and praxis of cultural competence.
Beliefs, Events and Values Inventory Assessment of Global Identity: Implications and Applications for International, Cross-Cultural and Transformative Learning
Authors: Wang Felix , Pait Kathleen , Acheson Kris , Sternberger Lee , Staton Renee , Shealy Craig N.
Published: June 2020

As global communities become more intertwined both technologically and socially, professionals in every field are expected to work with people from different backgrounds and thrive in multicultural settings.
Evaluating Cultural Competence in Indigenous Higher Education Contexts in Australia: A Challenge for Change
Authors: Smith James A. , Robertson Kim
Published: June 2020

Indigenous participation and achievement in education is an issue of national and international significance. Within Australia, theReview of Higher Education Access and Outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander PeopleReview of Higher Education Access and Outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People—often referred to as the Behrendt Review—provided a clear blueprint for investing in policies and programmes that support Indigenous pathways, transitions, participation and achievement in higher education.
Quiver CFT at strong coupling
Authors: Zarembo K.
Published: June 2020

Abstract

The circular Wilson loop in the two-node quiver CFT is computed at large-N and strong ’t Hooft coupling by solving the localization matrix model.
Spinor-helicity formalism for massless fields in AdS4. Part II. Potentials
Authors: Nagaraj Balakrishnan , Ponomarev Dmitry
Published: June 2020

Abstract

In a recent letter we suggested a natural generalization of the flat-space spinor-helicity formalism in four dimensions to anti-de Sitter space. In the present paper we give some technical details that were left implicit previously. For lower-spin fields we also derive potentials associated with the previously found plane-wave solutions for field strengths. We then employ these potentials to evaluate some three-point amplitudes. This analysis illustrates a typical computation of an amplitude without internal lines in our formalism.
FGFR-gerichtete Therapie von Kopf-Hals-Karzinomen
Authors: Dietrich Dimo
Published: June 2020

Hintergrund

Genomische Veränderungen (Mutationen, Genfusionen, Amplifikationen) und eine Dysregulierung des Fibroblasten-Wachstumsfaktor-Rezeptor-Signalwegs („fibroblast growth factor (FGF) receptor“, FGFR) sind häufig in Plattenepithelkarzinomen des Kopf-Hals-Bereichs (HNSCC) zu finden. Eine zielgerichtete Therapie mit gegen FGF-Rezeptoren gerichteten Tyrosinkinaseinhibitoren (TKI) oder monoklonalen Antikörpern stellt daher einen vielversprechenden Ansatz für die Behandlung des HNSCC dar.

Fragestellung

Dieser Übersichtsartikel beschreibt den aktuellen Wissensstand hinsichtlich FGFR-gerichteter Therapien bei Kopf-Hals-Tumoren (insbesondere HNSCC) und diskutiert in diesem Kontext genomische Veränderungen des FGFR-Signalwegs als potenzielle begleitende prädiktive Biomarker.

Material und Methode

Der vorliegende Artikel basiert auf einer Recherche der Datenbanken PubMed, ClinicalTrials.gov sowie von Tagungsbänden.

Ergebnisse

Erste Ergebnisse belegen die Wirksamkeit von Tyrosinkinase-Inhibitoren sowohl bei HNSCC als auch bei Adenokarzinomen des Kopf-Hals-Bereichs, insbesondere bei Schilddrüsenkarzinomen und adenoid-zystischen Speicheldrüsenkarzinomen.

Schlussfolgerungen

Frühe klinische und präklinische Daten verdeutlichen das Potenzial einer biomarkergesteuerten Behandlung von Patienten mit Kopf-Hals-Tumoren mit gegen FGFR-gerichtete TKI.
Multi-parent multi-environment QTL analysis: an illustration with the EU-NAM Flint population
Authors: Garin Vincent , Malosetti Marcos , van Eeuwijk Fred
Published: June 2020

Key message

Multi-parent populations multi-environment QTL experiments data should be analysed jointly to estimate the QTL effect variation within the population and between environments.

Commonly, QTL detection in multi-parent populations (MPPs) data measured in multiple environments (ME) is done by analyzing genotypic values ‘averaged’ across environments. This method ignores the environment-specific QTL (QTLxE) effects. Running separate single environment analyses is a possibility to measure QTLxE effects, but those analyses do not model the genetic covariance due to the use of the same genotype in different environments. In this paper, we propose methods to analyse MPP-ME QTL experiments using simultaneously the data from several environments and modelling the genotypic covariance. Using data from the EU-NAM Flint population, we show that these methods estimate the QTLxE effects and that they can improve the quality of the QTL detection. Those methods also have a larger inference power. For example, they can be extended to integrate environmental indices like temperature or precipitation to better understand the mechanisms behind the QTLxE effects. Therefore, our methodology allows the exploitation of the full MPP-ME data potential: to estimate QTL effect variation (a) within the MPP between sub-populations due to different genetic backgrounds and (b) between environments.
Ultrasound-guided muscle biopsy: a practical alternative for investigation of myopathy
Authors: Raithatha Anish , Ashraghi Mohammad Reza , Lord Christopher , Limback-Stanic Clara , Viegas Stuart , Amiras Dimitri
Published: June 2020

Objective

We propose the use of ultrasound-guided muscle biopsy as a viable method of obtaining muscle specimen to aid the diagnosis of myopathy. We retrospectively review the diagnostic accuracy and patient feedback of ultrasound-guided muscle biopsies in our neuromuscular service.

Method

Multidisciplinary team meeting reviewed select patients and agreed on those suitable for ultrasound-guided muscle biopsy. They then underwent biopsy using direct ultrasound guidance and a modified Bergström needle. The specimens were sent for histopathological analysis, and patients were given a feedback form.

Results

Ten patients underwent 11 ultrasound-guided muscle biopsies. Of these 11, one was processed incorrectly, but all others were good quality specimens suitable for analysis. All 10 of those processed correctly aided diagnosis. All patient feedback was rated good or excellent. In 4 patients with a previous unsuccessful surgical biopsy, ultrasound-guided biopsy was successful in obtaining suitable muscle. Of those 4 patients, 3 preferred ultrasound-guided biopsy, and 1 did not state a preference.

Discussion

Our ultrasound-guided muscle biopsy technique offers a viable alternative to surgical biopsy. It yields high-quality specimen that aids diagnosis and receives good feedback from patients. It can be performed quickly as a day case and does not require theatre space. Furthermore, direct visualization of structures minimizes the risk of complications and allows biopsy of otherwise difficult to access targets.

Conclusion

Utilization of ultrasound guided–modified Bergström needle technique for muscle biopsy provides comparable success rates to other techniques and has practical, clinical, operational, and patient-centred benefits compared with alternative techniques.
Measuring the cellular memory B cell response after vaccination in patients after allogeneic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Winkler Julia , Tittlbach Hannes , Schneider Andrea , Buchstaller Corinna , Mayr Andreas , Vasova Ingrid , Roesler Wolf , Mach Michael , Mackensen Andreas , Winkler Thomas H.
Published: June 2020

After allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), patients are repetitively vaccinated to reduce the risk of infection caused by the immune deficiency following allogeneic HSCT. By the vaccination of transplanted patients, the humoral memory function can be restored in the majority of cases. It is unknown, however, to what extent memory B cells derived from the donor contribute to the mobilization of antibody-secreting cells and long-term humoral memory in patients after allogeneic HSCT. We therefore analyzed patients after allogeneic HSCT for memory B cell responses 7 days after single vaccination against tetanus toxoid (TT), diphtheria toxoid (DT), pertussis toxoid (PT),Haemophilus influenzaetype b (Hib), and poliovirus. Patients showed an insufficient mobilization of plasmablasts (PB) after vaccination, whereas healthy subjects (HD,n= 13) exhibited a significant increase of PB in the peripheral blood. Regarding vaccine-specific antibody-secreting PB, all HD responded against all vaccine antigens, as expected. However, only 65% of the patients responded with a measurable increase in IgG-secreting PB against TT, 65% against DT, 33% against PT, and 53% against poliovirus. Correspondingly, the antibody titers on day 7 after vaccination did not increase in patients. A significant increase of serum titers for the vaccine antigens was detectable in the majority of patients only after repetitive vaccinations. In contrast to the low mobilization of vaccine-specific PB after vaccination, a high number of PB before vaccination was detectable in patients following allogeneic HSCT. High frequencies of circulating PB correlated with the incidence of moderate/severe chronic GVHD. In summary, patients showed a weak mobilization of antigen-specific PB and an inadequate increase in antibody titers 7 days after the first vaccination. Patients with moderate or severe chronic GVHD in their history had a significantly higher percentage of IgG-secreting PB prior to vaccination. The antigen specificity of these IgG-secreting PB is currently unknown.
Estimation of PM2.5 Mass Concentration from Visibility
Authors: Ji Denghui , Deng Zhaoze , Sun Xiaoyu , Ran Liang , Xia Xiangao , Fu Disong , Song Zijue , Wang Pucai , Wu Yunfei , Tian Ping , Huang Mengyu
Published: June 2020

Aerosols in the atmosphere not only degrade visibility, but are also detrimental to human health and transportation. In order to develop a method to estimate PM2.5 mass concentration from the widely measured visibility, a field campaign was conducted in Southwest China in January 2019. Visibility, ambient relative humidity (RH), PM2.5 mass concentrations and scattering coefficients of dry particles were measured. During the campaign, two pollution episodes, i.e., from 4–9 January and from 10–16 January, were encountered. Each of the two episodes could be divided into two periods. High aerosol hygroscopicity was found during the first period, when RH was higher than 80% at most of the time, and sometimes even approached 100%. The second period experienced a relatively dry but more polluted condition and aerosol hygroscopicity was lower than that during the first period. An empirical relationship between PM2.5 mass concentration and visibility (ambient aerosol extinction) under different RH conditions could thus be established. Based on the empirical relationship, PM2.5 mass concentration could be well estimated from visibility and RH. This method will be useful for remote sensing of PM2.5 mass concentration.
Obstructive sleep apnoea but not central sleep apnoea is associated with left ventricular remodelling after acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Fisser Christoph , Götz Kristina , Hetzenecker Andrea , Debl Kurt , Zeman Florian , Hamer Okka W. , Poschenrieder Florian , Fellner Claudia , Stadler Stefan , Maier Lars S. , Pfeifer Michael , Buchner Stefan , Arzt Michael
Published: June 2020

Obejctive

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) increases left ventricular transmural pressure more than central sleep apnoea (CSA) owing to negative intrathoracic pressure swings. We tested the hypothesis that the severity of OSA, and not CSA, is therefore associated with spheric cardiac remodelling after acute myocardial infarction.

Methods

This sub-analysis of a prospective observational study included 24 patients with acute myocardial infarction who underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention. Spheric remodelling, calculated according to the sphericity index, was assessed by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging at baseline and 12 weeks after acute myocardial infarction. OSA and CSA [apnoea-hypopnoea index (AHI) ≥ 5/hour] were diagnosed by polysomnography.

Results

Within 12 weeks after acute myocardial infarction, patients with OSA exhibited a significant increase in systolic sphericity index compared to patients without sleep-disordered breathing (no SDB) and patients with CSA (OSA vs. CSA vs. no SDB: 0.05 ± 0.04 vs. 0.01 ± 0.04 vs. − 0.03 ± 0.03, p = 0.002). In contrast to CSA, the severity of OSA was associated with an increase in systolic sphericity index after accounting for TIMI-flow before percutaneous coronary intervention, infarct size, pain-to-balloon-time and systolic blood pressure [OSA: B (95% CI) 0.443 (0.021; 0.816), p = 0.040; CSA: 0.193 (− 0.134; 0.300), p = 0.385].

Conclusion

In contrast to CSA and no SDB, OSA is associated with spheric cardiac remodelling within the first 12 weeks after acute myocardial infarction. Data suggest that OSA-related negative intrathoracic pressure swings may contribute to this remodelling after acute myocardial infaction.

Graphic abstract
Efficient propagation of suspended HL-60 cells in a disposable bioreactor supporting wave-induced agitation at various Reynolds number
Authors: Wierzchowski Kamil , Grabowska Iwona , Pilarek Maciej
Published: June 2020

Growth of human nonadherent HL-60 cell cultures performed in disposable bioreactor under various hydrodynamic conditions of 2-D wave-assisted agitation has been compared and discussed. Influence of Reynolds number for liquid (ReL) and the kLa coefficient, as key parameters characterized the bioprocessing of HL-60 cells in ReadyToProcess WAVETM 25 system, on reached values of the apparent maximal specific growth rate (μmax) and the specific yield of biomass (Y*X/S) has been identified. The values of ReL (i.e., 510–10,208), as well as kLa coefficient (i.e., 2.83–13.55 h−1), have been estimated for the cultures subjected to wave-induced mixing, based on simplified dimensionless correlation for various presents of WAVE 25 system. The highest values of apparent μmax = 0.038 h−1 and Y*X/S = 25.64 × 108 cells gglc−1 have been noted for cultures independently performed at wave-induced agitation characterized by ReL equaled to 5104 and 510, respectively. The presented results have high applicability potential in scale-up of bioprocesses focused on nonadherent animal cells, or in the case of any application of disposable bioreactors presenting similitude.