bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Peroxide Yield of the (001) La0.6Sr0.4MnO3 Surface as a Bifunctional Electrocatalyst for the Oxygen Reduction Reaction and Oxygen Evolution Reaction in Alkaline Media
Authors: Köhler Lennart , Szabadics Lukas , Jooss Christian , Risch Marcel
Published: December 2018

Active and stable bifunctional electrocatalysts are required for large‐scale deployment of rechargeable metal‐air and metal‐O2 batteries. This is hindered by the large overpotentials of the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in alkaline media, where peroxide is an undesired side product. We study the suitability of epitaxial (001)‐oriented La0.6Sr0.4MnO3 perovskite surfaces as a bifunctional catalyst using a rotating‐ring disk electrode (RRDE) assembly and focus particularly on the selectivity of the ORR. The peroxide yield is above 50 % during ORR‐only investigations in the scan range of 0.69 to 0.99 V vs. RHE where the CV traces are reproducible. In contrast, the peroxide yield is drastically reduced during OER‐ORR cycling where a peroxide yield below 10 % is reached during the ORR in the scan range of 0.74 V to 1.74 V vs. RHE. Our study highlights the importance of the electrode history and thus clearly demonstrates that separate studies of the OER and ORR are insufficient to optimize bifunctional electrocatalysts.
True versus strategic fairness in a common resource dilemma: Evidence from the dual‐process perspective
Authors: Lu Su , Au Wing‐Tung , Zhu Yi , Jiang Feng
Published: December 2018

Common resource dilemmas involve collectively coordinating individual choices to promote group efficiency. Equal division represents one of the most important coordination rules. Previous research suggests that individuals follow the equality rule for different reasons. Some individuals behave cooperatively out of their concern for other's welfare, whereas some individuals cooperate strategically to enhance personal gains. Building on the dual‐process perspective, the authors aim to differentiate strategic fairness from true fairness in solving a resource dilemma. In four experiments, the effect of cognitive processing manipulations on individual harvesting behavior in a one‐shot resource dilemma was tested against participants with different social values. Results consistently showed that prosocials, who value joint outcome and equality, requested significantly less money than did proselfs, who value personal gain. More importantly, prosocials in the intuition and deliberation conditions request similar amounts, whereas proselfs in the intuition condition request more money than those in the deliberation condition. The results were further validated by a follow‐up meta‐analysis based on the four experiments. The implications of the dual‐process perspective for social coordination research are discussed.
Frischbetondruck in Elementwänden mit integriertem Dämmstoff
Authors: Schmitt Andreas , Pahn Matthias
Published: December 2018

Der Einsatz von Halbfertigteilen im Stahlbetonbau stellt eine wirtschaftliche Bauweise dar, welche sich durch einen schnellen Baufortschritt unter Einhaltung hoher Qualitätsansprüche auszeichnet. Ein Beispiel für Halbfertigteile sind Elementwände mit integriertem Dämmstoff. Bei solchen Wänden werden im Fertigteilwerk nur die äußeren Betonschalen mit Dämmstoffkern vorgefertigt. Der tragende Endquerschnitt wird erst auf der Baustelle durch eine nachträgliche Ortbetonergänzung hergestellt. Der beim Verfüllen und Verdichten des Ortbetons auftretende Frischbetondruck muss von Verbindungsmitteln, die zur Kopplung der Betonschalen dienen, mit ausreichender Sicherheit aufgenommen werden. Der Frischbetondruck ist derzeit nach DIN 18218 „Frischbetondruck auf lotrechte Schalungen“ anzunehmen. Unter anderem bleibt die Beeinflussung des maximalen Frischbetondrucks durch den integrierten Dämmstoff bisher unberücksichtigt. Dies führt in vielen Fällen zu einer unwirtschaftlichen Bemessung der Elementwand im Bauzustand. Im Rahmen von theoretischen und experimentellen Untersuchungen werden maßgebende Einflussparameter auf den Frischbetondruck identifiziert und quantifiziert. Auf Grundlage der gewonnenen Erkenntnisse wird ein realitätsnahes Modell für die Praxis vorgestellt, welches die Berechnung des Frischbetondrucks in Elementwänden mit integriertem Dämmstoff anhand von einfachen Formeln und Diagrammen analog zur DIN 18218 ermöglicht.
Review of DBS methods as a quantitative tool for anticancer drugs
Authors: Sulochana Suresh P. , Daram Prasanthi , Srinivas Nuggehally R. , Mullangi Ramesh
Published: December 2018

An overview of published dried blood spot (DBS) methods for the quantitation of various classes of anticancer drugs from clinical and preclinical studies is presented. The increased reporting of DBS methods in the literature for quantitation of various classes of drugs is a testimony to their utility in bioanalytical applications. While DBS offers several advantages as compared with conventional wet sampling techniques, there remain a number of nuances that may impede the assay adaptability of DBS method in routine quantitative bioanalysis. This review covers several case studies of DBS application in the quantitation of anticancer drugs. Some perspectives are provided on the optimization of the DBS method with respect to the selection of DBS card, spot volume, hematocrit effect and other regular validation parameters, which are essential in quantitative bioanalysis. Some thoughts are provided on the existing gaps in the DBS method and possible remedial measure(s) to address such gaps. Although DBS methods have great potential, there is the need for a global consensus including regulatory support on the type of validation experiments to be performed to support quantitative data.
Predictors of side branch compromise in calcified bifurcation lesions treated with orbital atherectomy
Authors: Barman Nitin , Okamoto Naotaka , Ueda Hiroshi , Chamaria Surbhi , Bhatheja Samit , Vengrenyuk Yuliya , Gupta Eisha , Sweeny Joseph , Kapur Vishal , Hasan Choudhury , Baber Usman , Moreno Pedro , Sharma Samin , Kini Annapoorna S.
Published: December 2018

Objectives

The aim of the study was to identify the predictors of side branch (SB) compromise in severely calcified bifurcation lesions treated with orbital atherectomy (OA).

Background

SB compromise remains a major complication of bifurcation lesion percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Higher prevalence of lipid‐rich plaques and spotty calcification by optical coherence tomography (OCT) and SB ostial stenosis by angiography have been previously suggested as predictors of SB occlusion after main vessel (MV) stenting.

Methods

Patients with chronic stable angina and severely calcified bifurcation lesions, in whom provisional stenting strategy was planned, were enrolled in the study. OA was used for lesion preparation in all cases. OCT imaging of the MV was performed before and after stenting. SB compromise was defined as a composite of SB occlusion (TIMI flow grade ≤ 2) and SB intervention after MV stenting.

Results

Thirty stable CAD patients with 30 severely calcified bifurcation lesions were included in the study. Twelve patients (40%) had a compromised SB after MV stenting. Compromised SB was characterized by a greater angiographic diameter stenosis (55.4 ± 8.1% vs. 35.0 ± 14.4%, P < 0.01) and a smaller minimal lumen diameters (0.79 ± 0.17 vs. 1.12 ± 0.30 mm, P = 0.002) before PCI compared to noncompromised SB. The prevalence of OCT lipid‐rich plaques was low and did not differ between the groups (18 vs. 19%, P = 0.68). There was no difference in other OCT plaque characteristics including the presence of spotty calcification.

Conclusion

The severity of SB ostial disease and not MV plaque morphology contributed to SB compromise in severely calcified bifurcation lesions.
Transformative Supramolecular Vesicles Based on Acid‐Degradable Acyclic Cucurbit[n]uril and a Prodrug for Promoted Tumoral‐Cell Uptake
Authors: Mao Weipeng , Mao Dake , Yang Fan , Ma Da
Published: December 2018

Smart supramolecular vesicles constructed by host–guest interactions between “acid‐degradable” acyclic cucurbit[n]uril (CB[n]) and a doxorubicin prodrug are reported. “Acid‐degradable” acyclic CB[n] is a high‐affinity host for several common antitumor drugs, and its degradation leads to a more dramatic decrease in binding affinity than that observed for “acid‐sensitive” hosts. Supramolecular complexation between acid‐degradable acyclic CB[n] and a doxorubicin prodrug resulted in the formation of negatively charged supramolecular vesicles. The prodrug strategy allowed doxorubicin to be conjugated to vesicles in a stable manner with a high drug‐loading ratio of 20 %. The resulting supramolecular vesicles were responsive to tumor acidity (pH 6.5). Induced by mildly acidic conditions (pH 6.5–5.5), acid‐degradable acyclic CB[n] could be degraded, and this led to a vesicle‐to‐micelle transition to form positively charged micelles. This transition resulted in a pH‐dependent change in size and surface charge, which improved tumoral‐cell uptake for doxorubicin.
Stability Challenges for Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Fu Rui , Zhou Wenke , Li Qi , Zhao Yao , Yu Dapeng , Zhao Qing
Published: December 2018

As energy issues have become prominent, intensive attention has been paid to clean and renewable energy, such as wind energy, tidal energy, geothermal energy and solar energy. Perovskite solar cells, as the third generation of solar cells, possess many advantages, including high power conversion efficiency, simple preparation method and low fabrication cost, etc. Although the power conversion efficiency of this type of photovoltaic device has increased rapidly to more than 23% in less than ten years, stability issues constrain further development. Here, we systematically discuss the degradation mechanism for perovskite materials and their corresponding solar cell devices with a focus on the n‐i‐p structure. Developed strategies for improving device stability are also summarized. We hope this review will provide helpful insights for next stage research on enhancing the state‐of‐the‐art perovskite device stability toward future commercialization.
The fitness effects of a pale mutant in the aposematic seed bugLygaeus simulansindicate pleiotropy between warning coloration and life history
Authors: Balfour Vicki L. , Aumont Cédric , Dougherty Liam R. , Shuker David M.
Published: December 2018

Conspicuous warning colors that signal chemical or other defenses are common in the natural world. For instance, such aposematic warning patterns of red‐and‐black or yellow‐and‐black are common among insect taxa, particularly in the order Hemiptera, often forming the basis of Batesian and/or Müllerian mimicry rings. In addition, it has been repeatedly noted that color polymorphisms or mutants that influence pigmentation can show pleiotropy with other behavioral, physiological, or life‐history traits. Here, we describe a pale mutant of the seed bugLygaeus simulansthat appeared in our laboratory population in 2012, which differs in color to the wild‐type bugs. Through multigenerational experimental crosses between wild‐type and pale mutantL. simulans, we first show that the pale phenotype segregates as a single Mendelian locus, with the pale allele being recessive to the wild type. Next, we show (a) that there is a large heterozygous advantage in terms of fecundity, (b) that pale females suffer reduced longevity, and (c) that pale males have increased body length compared to wild‐type homozygotes. Our data therefore suggest that the color locus is pleiotropic with a number of life‐history traits, opening the door for a more complete genetic analysis of aposematic coloration in this species. In addition, this phenotype will be useful as a visible genetic marker, providing a tool for investigating sperm competition and other post‐copulatory drivers of sexual selection in this species.
Estimation on averaging effect of large‐scale aggregation of DR transient responses of building multi air‐conditioning facilities
Authors: Suzuki Keita , Ninagawa Chuzo , Morikawa Junji , Inaba Takashi , Kondo Seiji
Published: December 2018

Building‐multitype packaged air‐conditioners are expected to be possible resources of Fast Automated Demand Response (FastADR). However, transient response behaviors of each air‐conditioner are stochastic due to complicated refrigerant embedded controls. Although ensemble averaging effect is expected in aggregation of a large number of the air‐conditioners, it is difficult to carry out experiments with many actual office buildings. In this research, repetitive response time‐series data were collected from several air‐conditioners. We discuss the possibility of estimation on the ensemble averaging effects using the repetitive response data.
Assessment of submicron particle zeta potential in simple electrokinetic microdevices
Authors: Hidalgo‐Caballero Samuel , Lentz Cody Justice , Lapizco‐Encinas Blanca H.
Published: December 2018

The present communication illustrates the use of simple electrokinetic devices for the assessment of the zeta potential of submicron polystyrene particles. A combination of manual and automatic particle tracking was employed. This approach allows for characterizing particles in the same conditions and devices in which they can be separated, e.g. dielectrophoretic separations; making the resulting data readily applicable.
Separation and simultaneous determination of seven bioactive components in Tripterygium wilfordii Hook. F. and Tripterygium preparations by micellar electrokinetic capillary chromatography
Authors: Guo Haitao , Wang Zhiying , Xu Liying , Zhang Hongfen , Chang Ruimiao , Chen Anjia
Published: December 2018

A simple, comprehensive, and highly selective MEKC method has been developed for simultaneous analysis of seven bioactive components (triptolide, wilfortrine, wilfordine, wilforgine, wilforine, triptophenolide, and triptonide) in the root extracts of Tripterygium wilfordii Hook. F. (TWHF) and Tripterygium preparations (TPs). Optimal BGE consisted of 10 mM sodium tetraborate, 30 mM SDS, and 30% v/v methanol. The separation voltage was 20 kV and the temperature was 25°C. A DAD was used and the detection wavelength was at 218 nm. Under the optimum conditions, the baseline separation of seven components was achieved in less than 26 min. Excellent precision, good stability, and accuracy were obtained. For all analytes, linear calibrations were established within 10–100 μg/mL. The LOD and LOQ were within 1.2–4.2 μg/mL and 4.0–14 μg/mL, respectively. The developed method was suitable for the determination of key components in TWHF and TPs.
A second‐order positivity‐preserving well‐balanced finite volume scheme for Euler equations with gravity for arbitrary hydrostatic equilibria
Authors: Thomann Andrea , Zenk Markus , Klingenberg Christian
Published: December 2018

We present a well‐balanced finite volume scheme for the compressible Euler equations with gravity, where the approximate Riemann solver is derived using a Suliciu relaxation approach. Besides the well‐balanced property, the scheme is robust with respect to the physical admissible states. General hydrostatic solutions are captured up to machine precision by deriving, for a given initial value problem, suitable time‐independent functions and using them in the discretization of the source term. The first‐order scheme is extended to a second‐order scheme by reconstructing in equilibrium variables while preserving the well‐balanced and robustness properties. Numerical examples are performed to demonstrate the accuracy, well‐balanced, and robustness properties of the presented scheme for up to three space dimensions.
Faunal elements from the Deccan volcano‐sedimentary sequences of India: A reappraisal of biostratigraphic, palaeoecologic, and palaeobiogeographic aspects
Authors: Kapur Vivesh V. , Khosla Ashu
Published: December 2018

The sedimentary sequences associated with the Deccan Flood Basalts, i.e., infratrappean and intertrappean deposits, are known to yield a diverse assemblage of fauna that includes foraminiferans, ostracods, molluscs, fishes, frogs, turtles, lizards, snakes, crocodiles, dinosaurs, and mammals. The existing literature debates the exact nature of origin, age, and duration of the Deccan volcanic activity; however, there is a general accord within the geosciences community that the Deccan Flood Basalts bestrode the Cretaceous–Palaeogene Boundary. Within the past few decades, the record of the biotic component (particularly faunal elements) reported from the Deccan‐volcano sedimentary sequences have grown both numerically and taxonomically. Constraining the age of the Deccan‐volcano sedimentary sequences has a direct bearing on the studies that discuss the origin, evolution of the biota in a palaeobiogeographic framework, and also in the context of changes in the palaeoenvironment and palaeoecology. Thus, it becomes important to reinforce the age, environment of the Deccan‐volcano sedimentary sequences, and the origin/affinity of the faunal elements recovered from within these sedimentary deposits. We here reappraise the biotic (with an emphasis on the fauna) evidence in a biostratigraphic, palaeoecologic, and palaeobiogeographic aspect.
Acculturation and adjustment as a function of perceived and objective value congruence
Authors: Glazer Sharon , Roach Krystal N. , Carmona Carmen , Simonovich Heather
Published: December 2018

Culture fit has been studied in numerous ways conceptually and methodologically, yielding conflicting results. This study explored it in terms of perceived and objective value congruence in relation to both acculturation and socio‐cultural adjustment among 187 international students (or internationals, compared to 138 domestic students or locals) in the USA. First, for 9 out of 10 values, internationals' perceptions of U.S. values significantly differed from locals' actual values. Second, locals perceived greater stimulation and self‐direction value congruence (i.e., when personal values are consistent with respondents' perceptions of U.S. values), but weaker benevolence, power, and universalism value congruence than internationals. Third, marginalised and/or separated internationals perceived incongruence on benevolence and/or tradition values. Moreover, objective value incongruence (i.e., when personal values are inconsistent with U.S. respondents' actual reported values) on power, tradition, conformity, and security values related with marginalisation. Finally, for internationals, perceived value congruence related to socio‐cultural adjustment, and the correlations are opposite from expectations for locals' perceived value congruence.
Insights into the cooperativity between multiple interactions of dimethyl sulfoxide with carbon dioxide and water
Authors: Khanh Pham N. , Phan Cam‐Tu D. , Ho Dai Q. , Van Vo Quan , Ngan Vu T. , Nguyen Minh Tho , Trung Nguyen T.
Published: December 2018

Interactions of dimethyl sulfoxide with carbon dioxide and water molecules which induce 18 significantly stable complexes are thoroughly investigated. An addition of CO2 or H2O molecules into the DMSO⋯1CO2 and DMSO⋯1H2O systems leads to an increase in the stability of the resulting complexes, in which it is larger for a H2O addition than a CO2. The overall stabilization energy of the DMSO⋯1,2CO2 is mainly contributed by the S=O⋯C Lewis acid–base interaction, whereas the O − H⋯O hydrogen bond plays a significant role in stabilizing complexes of DMSO⋯1,2H2O and DMSO⋯1CO2⋯1H2O. Remarkably, the complexes of DMSO⋯2H2O are found to be more stable than DMSO⋯1CO2⋯1H2O and DMSO⋯2CO2. The level of the cooperativity of multiple interactions in ternary complexes tends to decrease in going from DMSO⋯2H2O to DMSO⋯1CO2⋯1H2O and finally to DMSO⋯2CO2. It is generally found that the red shift of the O − H bond involved in an O − H⋯O hydrogen bond increases while the blue shift of a C − H bond in a C − H⋯O hydrogen bond decreases when a cooperative effect occurs in ternary complexes as compared to those of the corresponding binary complexes. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Immune checkpoint blockade opens a new way to cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Sadreddini Sanam , Baradaran Behzad , Aghebati‐Maleki Ali , Sadreddini Sevil , Shanehbandi Dariush , Fotouhi Ali , Aghebati‐Maleki Leili
Published: December 2018

Among the main promising systems to triggering therapeutic antitumor immunity is the blockade of immune checkpoints. Immune checkpoint pathways regulate the control and eradication of infections, malignancies, and resistance against a host of autoantigens. Initiation point of the immune response is T cells, which have a critical role in this pathway. As several immune checkpoints are initiated by ligand–receptor interactions, they can be freely blocked by antibodies or modulated by recombinant forms of ligands or receptors. Antibodies against cytotoxic T‐lymphocyte‐associated antigen 4 (CTLA‐4) were the first immunotherapeutics that achieved the US Food and Drug Administration approval. Preliminary clinical results with the blockers of additional immune checkpoint proteins, such as programmed cell death protein 1 (PD‐1) indicate extensive and different chances to boost antitumor immunity with the objective of conferring permanent clinical effects. This study provides an overview of the immune checkpoint pathways, including CTLA‐4, PD‐1, lymphocyte activation gene 3, T‐cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain 3, B7‐H3, and diacylglycerol kinase α and implications of their inhibition in the cancer therapy.
Morphological description of the immature stages ofHermetia illucens(Linnaeus, 1758) (Diptera: Stratiomyidae)
Authors: Barros Luana Machado , Gutjahr Ana Lúcia Nunes , Ferreira‐ Keppler Ruth Leila , Martins Renato Tavares
Published: December 2018

In the dipteran genusHermetia, only 6 of the 78 valid species have documented immature stages:H. albitarsisFabricius, 1805,H. aurataBellardi, 1859,H. concinnaWilliston, 1900,H. illucens(Linnaeus, 1758),H. panamensisGreene, 1940 andH. pulchraWeidemann, 1830. In particular,H. illucensstands out due to its reported applicability for forensic, medical and economic purposes. Here, we described the morphology of eggs and immature stages of this species, with a view to detecting differences between instars and in the pupal stage, which should eventually help properly identifying larval age. We utilized both optical and scanning electron microscopy tools. The eggs are elliptical and elongated, and color varies from cream white to yellowish. The larvae are apodal, hemichephalic and holopneustic, flattened dorso‐ventrally and may be recognized by the head elongated, dorsal and ventral chaetotaxy of the cephalic capsule, thoracic and abdominal segments, and the morphology of the anterior and posterior spiracles. The pupae are adecticous and coarctate, tegument dark brown and pruinescence varying from brown to golden. The overall morphology across instars is similar, but marked variations were observed in the shape of the antennal articuli and the shape of the setae (first instar compared to the others). Our results supplement the biological information onHermetia illucensand should aid the proper identification and aging of juveniles in the field, as a way to minimize errors in the calculation of the post‐mortem interval.
Reaction of 2‐Phenyl‐4‐arylidene‐1,3‐oxazolones with Different Nucleophiles for Synthesis of Some New Heterocycles
Authors: Youssef A. S. A. , El‐Mariah F. A. , Abd‐Elmottaleb F. T. , Hashem H. E.
Published: December 2018

Refluxing of 1,3‐oxazolone (1a) with malononitrile in dry benzene and in the presence of ammonium acetate afforded imidazolone derivative (2). However, carrying out the same reaction in absolute ethanol and in the presence of piperidine as a base gave the benzamide derivative (4). Fusion of (1a) with p‐anisidine gave the open adduct benzamide (6), which cyclized in acidic medium to give imidazolone derivative (7). Heating of imidazolone (7) with malononitrile above its melting point afforded 1,3‐diazepine derivative (8). Reaction of the carbohydrazide (9) with isatin in ethanol gives the corresponding Schiff base (11), which then reacted with acetyl acetone, ethyl acetoacetate, ethyl cyanoacetate, and malononitrile in n‐butanol and piperidine to afford benzamide derivative (13, 14, 15) and (16), respectively. The structures of the newly synthesized compounds were established on the basis of IR, 1H‐NMR, mass spectra, and elemental analyses.
IL-10 producing CD8+ CD122+ PD-1+ regulatory T cells are expanded by dendritic cells silenced for Allograft Inflammatory Factor-1
Authors: Elizondo Diana M , Andargie Temesgen E , Haddock Naomi L , da Silva Ricardo L Louzada , de Moura Tatiana Rodrigues , Lipscomb Michael W
Published: December 2018

Allograft Inflammatory Factor-1 (AIF1) is a cytoplasmic scaffold protein that contains Ca2+ binding EF-hand and PDZ interaction domains important for mediating intracellular signaling complexes in immune cells. The protein plays a dominant role in both macrophage- and dendritic cell (DC)-mediated inflammatory responses. This study now reports that AIF1 expression in DC is important in directing CD8+ T cell effector responses. Silencing AIF1 expression in murine CD11c+ DC suppressed antigen-specific CD8+ T cell activation, marked by reduced CXCR3, IFNγ and Granzyme B expression, and restrained proliferation. These primed CD8+ T cells had impaired cytotoxic killing of target cells in vitro. In turn, studies identified that AIF1 silencing in DC robustly expanded IL-10 producing CD8+ CD122+ PD-1+ regulatory T cells that suppressed neighboring immune effector responses through both IL-10 and PD-1-dependent mechanisms. In vivo studies recapitulated bystander suppression of antigen-responsive CD4+ T cells by the CD8+ Tregs expanded from the AIF1 silenced DC. These studies further demonstrate that AIF1 expression in DC serves as a potent governor of cognate T cell responses and present a novel target for engineering tolerogenic DC-based immunotherapies.

Adaptive immune responses are impaired in CD8+ T cells primed by DC silenced for AIF1.
Platelet TLR4 at the crossroads of thrombosis and the innate immune response
Authors: Schattner Mirta
Published: December 2018

Platelet TLR-4 activation by pathogen- or damage-associated molecular pattern molecules triggers pro-thrombotic, proinflammatory, and pro-coagulant effector responses. Moreover, platelet TLR4 has a prominent role as a sensor of high lipopolysaccharide circulating levels during sepsis and in the clearance of pathogens mediated by neutrophils. This review presents evidence pointing to TLR4 as a bridge connecting thrombosis and innate immunity.
The Leadership Perspectives of Female Intercollegiate Athletes
Authors: Fuller Rhema , Harrison Carlton Keith , Johnson Darrell , Lawrence Suzanne M. , Eyanson Jeff , McArdle Danielle
Published: December 2018

Though the implementation of Title IX, among other measures, has resulted in increased equitable opportunities for sport participation for girls and women, the same cannot be said for leadership opportunities in sport, such as in coaching and administration. The current research examined how female intercollegiate athletic participants construct meaning of their perspectives as leaders. Two hundred and ninety‐five National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) female college athletes were questioned about their leadership perspectives. The perspectives presented revealed that the female college athletes were success‐oriented, sought to be change agents in their communities, and believed in leading by example. Further, self‐reflection was an important consideration on their leadership perspectives. In light of the findings, implications and future research are discussed.
lntracortical Connections in the Snakes Natrix sipedon and Thamnophis sirtalis
Authors: Ulinski Philip S.
Published: December 2018

The association and commissural connections between the four cortical areas in water (Natrix sipedon) and garter (Thamnophis sirtalis) snakes were studied by placing lesions on the cortical surface and studying the resulting degeneration in Fink‐Heimer preparations. Lateral cortex projects to the outer one third of layer 1 of ipsilateral medial cortex. Dorsal cortex projects to the middle third of layer 1 of ipsilateral medial cortex. Dorsomedial cortex projects bilaterally to the inner third of layer 1 and to layer 3 of me dial cortex. It also projects to layer 1 of contralateral dorsomedial cortex. Medial cortex projects ipsilaterally to each of the other cortical areas. With the apparent exception of the projection of medial cortex to lateral cortex, each projection is organized such that each rostrocaudal segment of a cortical area projects to all segments of the target area lying at the same or more caudal levels.
Motivational Interviewing to Promote Employment
Authors: Britt Eileen , Sawatzky Roxanne , Swibaker Kevin
Published: December 2018

This article evaluated the use of motivational interviewing (MI) to increase employment. In Study 1, 910 unemployed participants were randomly assigned to either the control (standard employment program) or the experimental condition. Experimental participants who were not ready to seek employment (assessed by the University of Rhode Island Change Assessment Scale) received MI plus the standard employment program. Study 2 evaluated this approach within the entire Opportunities for Employment population (N = 992). Compared with the control participants, participants in the experimental condition in Study 1 and participants in Study 2 increased motivation for employment, employment program participation, and employment and employment retention.
Nanoparticle‐Based Imaging of Clinical Transplant Populations Encapsulated in Protective Polymer Matrices
Authors: Adams Christopher F. , Delaney Alexander M. , Carwardine Darren R. , Tickle Jacqueline , Granger Nicolas , Chari Divya M.
Published: December 2018

A recent clinical trial proves that autologous olfactory mucosal cell (OMC) transplantation improves locomotion in dogs with naturally occurring spinal injuries comparable to human lesions. However, not all dogs respond to the treatment, likely due to the transplantation procedures involving injections of cell suspensions that are associated with cell death, uneven cell distribution, and cell washout. Encapsulating cells in protective hydrogel matrices offers a tissue engineering solution to safely achieve 3D growth of viable transplant cells for implantation into injury sites, to improve regenerative outcomes. It is shown for the first time that canine OMCs (cOMCs) can be propagated with high viability in 3D collagen matrices. Further, a method to incorporate cOMCs pre‐labeled with clinical‐grade iron oxide nanoparticles into the constructs is described. Intraconstruct labeled cells are visualized using magnetic resonance imaging, offering substantial promise for in vivo tracking of cOMCs delivered in protective matrices.
Analysis of the community composition and bacterial diversity of the rhizosphere microbiome across different plant taxa
Authors: Lei Shaonan , Xu Xiaohong , Cheng Zhiqiang , Xiong Juan , Ma Rongqin , Zhang Lanlan , Yang Xiaorong , Zhu Yunxi , Zhang Binghuo , Tian Baoyu
Published: December 2018

Rhizobacteria play an important role in bridging the soil and plant microbiomes and improving the health and growth of plants. In this study, the bacterial community structures and compositions of rhizosphere microbiomes associated with six plant species, representing two orders and three families of wild plants grown in the same field, were evaluated. The six plant species examined harbored a core and similar bacterial communities of the rhizosphere microbiome, which was dominated by members of Rhizobiales, Sphingomonadales, Burkholderiales, and Xanthomonadales of Proteobacteria, Subgroup 4 of Acidobacteria, and Sphingobacteriales of Bacteroidetes. Plant species had a significant effect on the microbial composition and Operational Taxonomic Unit (OTU) abundance of the rhizosphere microbiome. Statistical analysis indicated a significant differential OTU richness (Chao1, p < 0.05) and bacterial diversity (Shannon index, p < 0.0001) of the rhizosphere microbiome at the plant species, genus, or families levels. The paralleled samples from the same plant species in the PCoA and hierarchical cluster analysis demonstrated a clear tendency to group together, although the samples were not strictly separated according to their taxonomic divergence at the family or order level. The CAP analysis revealed a great proportion (44.85%) of the variations on bacterial communities could be attributed to the plant species. The results demonstrated that largely conserved and taxonomically narrow bacterial communities of the rhizosphere microbiome existed around the plant root. The bacterial communities and diversity of the rhizosphere microbiome were significantly related to the plant taxa, at least at the species levels.
An approximation of the surfaces areas using the classical Bernstein quadrature formula
Authors: Miclăuş Dan
Published: December 2018

In this article, we try to assign a place on the map of the closed Newton–Cotés quadrature formulas to a new approximation formula based on the classical Bernstein polynomials. We create a procedure for a computer implementation that allows us to verify the accuracy of the new approximation formula. In order to get a complete image of this kind of approximation, we compare some well‐known quadrature formulas. Although effective in most situations, there are instances when the composite quadrature formulas cannot be applied, as they use equally‐spaced nodes. We present also an adaptive method that is used to obtain better approximations and to minimize the number of function evaluations. Numerical examples are given to increase the validity of the theoretical aspects.
On inversion and Sobolev estimate results about the weighted Radon transform
Authors: Li Wei , Wang Jinping
Published: December 2018

In this paper, we derive an inversion of the weighted Radon transform by Fourier transform, Riesz potential, and integral transform. We extend results of Rigaud and Lakhal to the n‐dimensional Euclidean space. Furthermore, we obtain some properties of the weighted Radon transform. Finally, we develop some estimate results of the weighted Radon transform under Sobolev space.
Embryotrophic effects of extracellular vesicles derived from outgrowth embryos in pre‐ and peri‐implantation embryonic development in mice
Authors: Kim Jihyun , Lee Jaewang , Lee Tae Bok , Jun Jin Hyun
Published: December 2018

Recently, many studies have investigated the role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) on reproductive events, including embryo development and death, oviduct–embryo crosstalk, in vitro fertilization and others. The aim of this study was to demonstrate whether outgrowth embryo–derived EVs function as bioactive molecules and regulate mouse embryonic developmental competence in vitro and implantation potential in utero. The EVs from mouse outgrowth embryos on 7.5 days postcoitum were detected and selectively isolated to evaluate the embryotrophic functions on preimplantation embryos. Developmental outcomes such as the percentage of blastocyst formation, hatching, and trophoblastic outgrowth were assessed. Furthermore, the total cell number and apoptotic index of blastocysts, which were incubated with EVs during the culture period, were evaluated by fluorescence microscopy. Implantation potential in utero was investigated following embryo transfer. The EVs from outgrowth embryo–conditioned media have rounded membrane structures that range in diameter from 20 to 225 nm. Incubation with EVs improved preimplantation embryonic development by increasing cell proliferation and decreasing apoptosis in blastocysts. Moreover, the implantation rates following embryo transfer were significantly higher in EV–supplemented embryos compared with the control. Collectively, EVs from outgrowth embryo could enhance the embryonic developmental competence and even implantation potential in mice.
The impact of plasma brain‐derived neurotrophic factor concentration and weight gain after kidney transplantation
Authors: Lai Chen , Stanfill Ansley G. , Zhang Xuemin , Cashion Ann K.
Published: December 2018

Obesity and its related complications continue to be significant challenges for kidney transplant recipients. In previous studies, researchers have reported that brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is closely associated with metabolic imbalance and obesity, but the role of BDNF in weight gain after kidney transplant has not been elucidated. The purpose of this pilot study was to explore the relationship between plasma BDNF levels and weight change. We examined associations between plasma BDNF levels measured at transplantation and 12 months later and measures of weight change during these 12 months in a sample of 55 kidney recipients (mean age of 48 years, 60% male, 56% African American). Of the 55 recipients, 49 had BDNF levels measured at baseline, 33 had BDNF levels measured at 12 months, and 27 had BDNF levels measured at both time points. We found that plasma BDNF levels at baseline (n = 49), but not at 12 months (n = 33), were significantly and positively correlated with the body mass index change (p = 0.037) and percentage weight change (p = 0.036). In addition, average plasma BDNF value at 12 months (307 ± 254 pg/ml) was significantly lower than at baseline (452 ± 345 pg/ml) in the 27 recipients with BDNF levels measured at both time points. Findings from this pilot work suggest that BDNF might serve as a regulator of weight change for kidney transplant related obesity.
Use an Integrated Approach to Monitor Algal Blooms
Authors: Adams Hunter , Buerkens Frances , Cottrell Ashley , Reeder Sam , Southard Mark
Published: December 2018

One drinking water utility found a comprehensive, cost‐effective strategy for monitoring toxin‐producing cyanobacteria that can harm water quality.
Fine‐tune Chloramine Disinfectant Residual Levels in Distribution Networks
Authors: Seidel Andy , Miller Matt , Jorgensen Paul
Published: December 2018

Water utilities can mitigate disinfectant‐residual degradation by using automated chloramine management systems in water storage assets.
Climbing Elevated Tanks: The Height of Safety
Authors:   AWWA Staff
Published: December 2018

The dangers of climbing elevated water storage structures should never be underestimated. Utility staff often must climb structures higher than 12 ft when climbing towers to check paint; look for rust or bullet damage; and inspect hatches, locks, and beacon lights.
Melanoma subtypes: genomic profiles, prognostic molecular markers and therapeutic possibilities
Authors: Rabbie Roy , Ferguson Peter , Molina‐Aguilar Christian , Adams David J , Robles‐Espinoza Carla D
Published: December 2018

Melanoma is characterised by its ability to metastasise at early stages of tumour development. Current clinico‐pathologic staging based on the American Joint Committee on Cancer criteria is used to guide surveillance and management in early‐stage disease, but its ability to predict clinical outcome has limitations. Herein we review the genomics of melanoma subtypes including cutaneous, acral, uveal and mucosal, with a focus on the prognostic and predictive significance of key molecular aberrations. © 2018 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Epidemiology of invasive fungal infections in immunocompromised children; an Australian national 10‐year review
Authors: Bartlett Adam W. , Cann Megan P. , Yeoh Daniel K. , Bernard Anne , Ryan Anne L. , Blyth Christopher C. , Kotecha Rishi S. , McMullan Brendan J. , Moore Andrew S. , Haeusler Gabrielle M. , Clark Julia E.
Published: December 2018

Background

A thorough understanding of local and contemporary invasive fungal infection (IFI) epidemiology in immunocompromised children is required to provide a rationale for targeted prevention and treatment strategies.

Methods

Retrospective data over 10 years from four tertiary pediatric oncology and hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) units across Australia were analyzed to report demographic, clinical, and mycological characteristics of IFI episodes, and crude IFI prevalence in select oncology/HSCT groups. Kaplan–Meier survival analyses were used to calculate 180‐day overall survival.

Results

A total of 337 IFI episodes occurred in 320 children, of which 149 (44.2%), 51 (15.1%), and 110 (32.6%) met a modified European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (mEORTC) criteria for proven, probable, and possible IFI, respectively. There were a further 27 (8.0%) that met a “modified possible IFI” criteria. Median age at IFI diagnosis was 8.4 years. Crude mEORTC IFI prevalence in acute lymphoblastic leukemia, acute myeloid leukemia, solid tumor, and allogeneic HSCT cohorts was 10.6%, 28.2%, 4.4%, and 11.7%, respectively. Non‐Aspergillus species represented 48/102 (47.1%) molds identified, and non‐albicans Candida represented 66/93 (71.0%) yeasts identified. There were 56 deaths among 297 children who met mEORTC criteria, with 180‐day overall survival for proven, probable, and possible IFIs of 79.7%, 76.2%, and 84.4%, respectively.

Conclusion

Non‐Aspergillus molds and non‐albicans Candida contributed substantially to pediatric IFI in our study, with high IFI prevalence in leukemia and allogeneic HSCT cohorts. Inclusion of IFIs outside of European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer criteria revealed an IFI burden that would go otherwise unrecognized in published reports.
Fabrication and characterization of waterborne polyurethane/silver nanocomposite foams
Authors: Zhao Baobao , Qian Yao , Qian Xiaoming , Fan Jintu , Feng Yan
Published: December 2018

Nowadays the waterborne polyurethane (WPU) is a newly developed polymer foam material as a replacement for conventional organic solvent‐based polyurethane (PU). Nevertheless, the WPU foams exhibit some drawbacks such as inferior mechanical strength, low thermal and dimensional stability, which inhibits its large‐scale application at present. So a series of novel WPU/silver nanocomposite foams was successfully prepared by mechanical foaming method. The effect of silver nanoparticles (nano Ag) content on the morphology, thermal behavior, air permeability, water vapor transmission rate (WVT), mechanical, and antibacterial properties of WPU/Ag nanocomposite foams were systematically investigated. The results revealed that the nano Ag were uniformly dispersed in WPU matrix and facilitated cell growth, leading to enhanced mean pore size, thermal stability, air permeability, and WVT value of nanocomposite foams. About 122% improvement in the air permeability and 28% improvement in the WVT value were obtained when the nano Ag content extended from 0 to 4 wt%. It was found that the nano Ag content had great influence on tensile strength and elongation at break. When nano Ag content was 2 wt%, the nanocomposite foam exhibited the maximum tensile strength value of 1.26 MPa. Moreover, because of the addition of nano Ag, the nanocomposite foam showed bacteriostatic rate of 98.23% and 97.38% against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, respectively. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:1492–1498, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Clinical outcomes following prenatal diagnosis of asymmetric ventriculomegaly, interhemispheric cyst, and callosal dysgenesis (AVID)
Authors: Oh Karen Y. , Gibson Thomas J. , Pinter Joseph D. , Pettersson David , Shaffer Brian L. , Selden Nathan R. , Sohaey Roya
Published: December 2018

What's already known about this topic?

Fetal ventriculomegaly can be isolated or be a component of structural brain anomaly.

Prenatal counseling can be challenging given the variable clinical outcomes associated with fetal ventriculomegaly.

When fetal ventriculomegaly is associated with a structural anomaly such as a callosal malformation, postnatal outcomes are worse than for isolated ventriculomegaly.

What does this study add?

When severe asymmetric ventriculomegaly is identified, an underlying callosal anomaly and midline interhemispheric cyst can be present (AVID triad).

Prenatal diagnosis of the AVID triad leads to progressive severe macrocephaly in utero, which often leads to cesarean section delivery.

All children in our series with prenatally diagnosed AVID required at least one and in general several neurosurgical procedures, including CSF shunting in all cases.

Most of these children had at least moderate to severe motor and language delays, with a wide range of visual deficits, craniofacial abnormalities, and medical comorbidities.
Impact of black silicon on light‐ and elevated temperature‐induced degradation in industrial passivated emitter and rear cells
Authors: Pasanen Toni P. , Modanese Chiara , Vähänissi Ville , Laine Hannu S. , Wolny Franziska , Oehlke Alexander , Kusterer Christian , Heikkinen Ismo T.S. , Wagner Matthias , Savin Hele
Published: December 2018

Light and elevated‐temperature induced degradation (LeTID) is currently a severe issue in passivated emitter and rear cells (PERC). In this work, we study the impact of surface texture, especially a black silicon (b‐Si) nanostructure, on LeTID in industrial p‐type mc‐Si PERC. Our results show that during standard LeTID conditions the b‐Si cells with atomic‐layer‐deposited aluminum oxide (AlOx) front surface passivation show no degradation despite the presence of a hydrogen‐rich AlOx/SiNx passivation stack on the rear. Furthermore, b‐Si solar cells passivated with silicon nitride (SiNx) on the front lose only 1.5%rel of their initial power conversion efficiency, while the acidic‐textured equivalents degrade by nearly 4%rel under the same conditions. Correspondingly, clear degradation is visible in the internal quantum efficiency (IQE) of the acidic‐textured cells, especially in the ~850 to 1100‐nm wavelength range confirming that the degradation occurs in the bulk, while the IQE remains nearly unaffected in the b‐Si cells. The observations are supported by spatially resolved photoluminescence (PL) maps, which show a clear contrast in the degradation behavior of b‐Si and acidic‐textured cells, especially in the case of SiNx front surface passivation. The PL maps also suggest that the magnitude of LeTID scales with surface area of the texture, rather than wafer thickness that was recently reported, although the b‐Si cells are slightly thinner (140 vs 165 μm). The results indicate that b‐Si has a positive impact on LeTID, and hence, benefits provided by b‐Si are not limited only to the excellent optical properties, as commonly understood.
A wavelet‐based nonparametric CUSUM control chart for autocorrelated processes with applications to network surveillance
Authors: Li Jun , Jeske Daniel R. , Zhou Yangmei , Zhang Xin
Published: December 2018

Statistical process control (SPC) has natural applications in data network surveillance. However, network data are commonly autocorrelated, which presents challenges to the basic SPC methods. Most existing SPC methods for correlated data assume parametric models to account for the correlation structure within the data. Those model assumptions can be difficult to justify in practice. In this paper, we propose a nonparametric cumulative sum (CUSUM) control chart for autocorrelated processes. In our proposed approach, we incorporate a wavelet decomposition and a nonparametric multivariate CUSUM control chart to obtain a robust procedure for autocorrelated processes without distribution assumptions. Extensive simulations show that the procedure appropriately controls the in‐control average run length and also has good sensitivity for detecting location shifts.