bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Which mode and potency of electrocoagulation yields the Smallest Unobstructed Area of the Fallopian Tubes?
Authors: Campagnolo Marcelo Ivo , Reis Ricardo dos , Santos Marcele Oliveira dos , Kliemann Lúcia Maria , Savaris Ricardo Francalacci
Published: May 2018

Objective To determine which mode and potency of electrocoagulation, using a modern electrosurgical generator, yields the smallest unobstructed area of the Fallopian tubes.

Methods In an experimental study, tubes from 48 hysterectomies or tubal ligation were evaluated. Tubes were randomly allocated to one of the following groups: group A) 25 W x 5 seconds (n = 17); group B) 30 W x 5 seconds (n = 17); group C) 35 W x 5 seconds (n = 18), group D) 40 W x 5 seconds (n = 20); group E) 40 W x 5 seconds with visual inspection (blanch, swells, collapse) (n = 16); group F) 50 W x 5 seconds (n = 8). Bipolar electrocoagulation was performed in groups A to E, and monopolar electrocoagulation was performed in group F. Coagulation mode was used in all groups. Digital photomicrography of the transversal histological sections of the isthmic segment of the Fallopian tube were taken, and the median percentage of unobstructed luminal area (mm2) was measured with ImageJ software (ImageJ, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA). The Kruskal-Wallis test or analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used for statistical analysis.

Results Ninety-six Fallopian tube sections were analyzed. The smallest median occluded area (%; range) of the Fallopian tube was obtained in the group with 40 W with visual inspection (8.3%; 0.9–40%), followed by the groups 25 W (9.1%; 0–35.9%), 40 W (14.2; 0.9–43.2%), 30 W (14.2; 0.9–49.7%), 35 W (15.1; 3–46.4%) and 50 W (38.2; 3.1–51%). No statistically significant difference was found among groups (p = 0.09, Kruskal-Wallis test).

Conclusion The smallest unobstructed area was obtained with power setting at 40 W with visual inspection using a modern electrosurgical generator. However, no statistically significant difference in the unobstructed area was observed among the groups using these different modes and potencies.
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: Evolving Controversies and Uncertainties
Authors: Carino Davide , Sarac Timur , Ziganshin Bulat , Elefteriades John
Published: May 2018

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is defined as a permanent dilatation of the abdominal aorta that exceeds 3 cm. Most AAAs arise in the portion of abdominal aorta distal to the renal arteries and are defined as infrarenal. Most AAAs are totally asymptomatic until catastrophic rupture. The strongest predictor of AAA rupture is the diameter. Surgery is indicated to prevent rupture when the risk of rupture exceeds the risk of surgery. In this review, we aim to analyze this disease comprehensively, starting from an epidemiological perspective, exploring etiology and pathophysiology, and concluding with surgical controversies. We will pursue these goals by addressing eight specific questions regarding AAA: (1) Is the incidence of AAA increasing? (2) Are ultrasound screening programs for AAA effective? (3) What causes AAA: Genes versus environment? (4) Animal models: Are they really relevant? (5) What pathophysiology leads to AAA? (6) Indications for AAA surgery: Are surgeons over-eager to operate? (7) Elective AAA repair: Open or endovascular? (8) Emergency AAA repair: Open or endovascular?
Density matrix study of ground state depletion towards sub-diffraction-limited spontaneous Raman scattering spectroscopy
Authors: Rieger Steffen , Würthwein Thomas , Sparenberg Kai , Boller Klaus-Jochen , Fallnich Carsten
Published: May 2018

The suppression of Raman scattering is of high interest for the achievement of sub-diffraction-limited resolution in Raman scattering spectroscopy and microscopy. We present density matrix calculations of the suppression of spontaneous Raman scattering via ground state depletion in a level system based on the molecule tris(bipyridine)ruthenium(ii). This particular molecule has been earlier used for an experimental demonstration of the suppression of spontaneous Raman scattering, allowing us to successfully verify the validity of our numerical calculations by a comparison to the experimental results. We investigate the required level of detail of the molecule model as well as the influence of certain molecule and pulse parameters on the Raman scattering suppression. It was found that pulses with a duration longer than the lifetime of the electronic states allow for a high suppression of the Raman scattering. Pulses shorter than the coherence lifetime between the ground state and electronic states lead to a similarly high suppression but also accomplish the suppression with more than one order of magnitude lower pulse energy fluence. Additionally, using a laser wavelength that is in resonance with one of the electronic transitions of the sample should allow suppressing the Raman scattering with four to six orders of magnitude lower pulse energy fluence.
Influence of mean radial electric field on particle transport induced by RMPs in tokamak plasmas
Authors: Chen Dunqiang , Xu Yingfeng , Wang Shaojie
Published: May 2018

The quasi-linear theory of the particle diffusion coefficient including the finite Larmor radius effect and the mean radial electric field (Er without shear) in a stochastic magnetic field is derived. The theory has been verified by comparing with test particle simulations and previous theory. It is found that Er can shift the wave-particle resonance position. The Er-shift effect mainly modifies the ion diffusion coefficients and leads to the modification of ion particle flux. By using the ambipolar condition, we obtained the balanced flux at the edge of a tokamak plasma and found good agreement with recent experimental observations.
Reduction of short wavelength reflectance of multi-wall carbon nanotubes through ultraviolet laser irradiation
Authors: Stephens Michelle S. , Simonds Brian J. , Yung Christopher S. , Conklin Davis , Livigni David J. , Oliva Alberto Remesal , Lehman John H.
Published: May 2018

Multi-wall carbon nanotube coatings are used as broadband, low-reflectance absorbers for bolometric applications and for stray light control. They are also used as high emittance blackbody radiators. Irradiation of single wall carbon nanotubes with ultraviolet (UV) laser light has been shown to remove amorphous carbon debris, but there have been few investigations of the interaction of UV light with the more complex physics of multi-wall carbon nanotubes. We present measurements of reflectance and surface morphology before and after exposure of multi-wall carbon nanotube coatings to 248 nm UV laser light. We show that UV exposure reduces the reflectivity at wavelengths below 600 nm and present modeling of the thermal cycling the UV exposure causes at the surface of the carbon nanotubes. This effect can be used to flatten the spectral shape of the reflectivity curve of carbon nanotube absorber coatings used for broadband applications. Finally, we find that the effect of UV exposure depends on the nanotube growth process.
Theory of impossible worlds: Toward a physics of information
Authors: Buscema Paolo Massimo , Sacco Pier Luigi , Della Torre Francesca , Massini Giulia , Breda Marco , Ferilli Guido
Published: May 2018

In this paper, we introduce an innovative approach to the fusion between datasets in terms of attributes and observations, even when they are not related at all. With our technique, starting from datasets representing independent worlds, it is possible to analyze a single global dataset, and transferring each dataset onto the others is always possible. This procedure allows a deeper perspective in the study of a problem, by offering the chance of looking into it from other, independent points of view. Even unrelated datasets create a metaphoric representation of the problem, useful in terms of speed of convergence and predictive results, preserving the fundamental relationships in the data. In order to extract such knowledge, we propose a new learning rule named double backpropagation, by which an auto-encoder concurrently codifies all the different worlds. We test our methodology on different datasets and different issues, to underline the power and flexibility of the Theory of Impossible Worlds.
Structural diversity and electronic properties in potassium silicides
Authors: Hao Chun-Mei , Li Yunguo , Huang Hong-Mei , Li Yan-Ling
Published: May 2018

Stable potassium silicides in the complete compositional landscape were systematically explored up to 30 GPa using the variable-composition evolutionary structure prediction method. The results show that K4Si, K3Si, K5Si2, K2Si, K3Si2, KSi, KSi2, KSi3, and K8Si46 have their stability fields in the phase diagram. The spatial dimensional diversity of polymerized silicon atoms (0D “isolated” anion, dimer, Si4 group, 1D zigzag chain, 2D layer, and 3D network) under the potassium sublattice was uncovered as silicon content increases. Especially, the 2D layered silicon presents interestingly a variety of shapes, such as the “4 + 6” ring, “4 + 8”ring, and 8-membered ring. K-Si bonding exhibits a mixed covalency and ionicity, while Si-Si bonding is always of covalent character. Semiconductivity or metallicity mainly depends on the form of sublattices and K:Si ratio, which allows us to find more semiconductors in the Si-rich side when closed-shell K cations are encompassed by polymerized Si. The semiconducting silicides present strong absorption in the infrared and visible light range. These findings open up the avenue for experimental synthesis of alkali metal-IVA compounds and potential applications as battery electrode materials or photoelectric materials.
Perspective: New process technologies required for future devices and scaling
Authors: Clark R. , Tapily K. , Yu K.-H. , Hakamata T. , Consiglio S. , O’Meara D. , Wajda C. , Smith J. , Leusink G.
Published: May 2018

This paper presents an overview and perspective on processing technologies required for continued scaling of leading edge and emerging semiconductor devices. We introduce the main drivers and trends affecting future semiconductor device scaling and provide examples of emerging devices and architectures that may be implemented within the next 10-20 yr. We summarize multiple active areas of research to explain how future thin film deposition, etch, and patterning technologies can enable 3D (vertical) power, performance, area, and cost scaling. Emerging and new process technologies will be required to enable improved contacts, scaled and future devices and interconnects, monolithic 3D integration, and new computing architectures. These process technologies are explained and discussed with a focus on opportunities for continued improvement and innovation.
Electron-induced degradation of J-V characteristics of GaInP top cell and GaAs middle cell by electroluminescence measurements
Authors: Wang Junling , Yan Gang , Wu Rui , Wang Rong
Published: May 2018

Electroluminescence (EL) measurements were carried out to investigate the irradiation effects of 1.0 MeV electrons on the current density-voltage (J-V) characteristics of the GaInP top cell and GaAs middle cell of GaInP/GaAs/Ge triple-junction solar cells at injection current densities ranging from 2.5 mA/cm2 to 30 mA/cm2. By utilizing the optoelectronic reciprocity relation between the EL and external quantum efficiency, the dark J-V characteristics of the two subcells, as well as the short circuit current density and the open circuit voltage, were derived. It is shown that the short circuit current density and the open circuit voltage of the top cell and the middle cell both degrade with the increasing fluence, but that of the middle cell degrades more than the top cell at the same fluence. Meanwhile, the current-limiting cell changes from GaInP top cell to the GaAs middle cell. The GaAs middle cell contributes to more loss in voltage of the 3 J solar cell.
A re-evaluation of thermal expansion measurements of metallic liquids and glasses from x-ray scattering experiments
Authors: Gangopadhyay A. K. , Kelton K. F.
Published: May 2018

Previous studies reported a number of anomalies when estimates of linear thermal expansion coefficients of metallic liquids and glasses from x-ray scattering experiments were compared with direct measurements of volume/length changes with temperature. In most cases, the first peak of the pair correlation function showed a contraction, while the structure factor showed an expansion, but both at rates much different from those expected from the direct volume measurements. In addition, the relationship between atomic volume and the characteristic lengths obtained from the structure factor from scattering experiments was found to have a fractional exponent instead of one equal to three, as expected from the Ehrenfest relation. This has led to the speculation that the atomic packing in liquids and glasses follow a fractal behavior. These issues are revisited in this study using more in-depth analysis of recent higher resolution data and some new ideas suggested in the literature. The main conclusion is that for metallic alloys, at least to a large extent, most of these anomalies arise from complicated interplays of the temperature dependences of the various partial structure factors, which contribute to the total intensities of the scattering peaks.
Weak multiplexing induces coherence resonance
Authors: Semenova Nadezhda , Zakharova Anna
Published: May 2018

Using the model of a FitzHugh-Nagumo system in the excitable regime, we study the impact of multiplexing on coherence resonance in a two-layer network. We show that multiplexing allows for the control of the noise-induced dynamics. In particular, we find that multiplexing induces coherence resonance in networks that do not demonstrate this phenomenon in isolation. Examples are provided by deterministic networks and networks where the strength of interaction between the elements is not optimal for coherence resonance. In both cases, we show that the control strategy based on multiplexing can be successfully applied even for weak coupling between the layers. Moreover, for the case of deterministic networks, we obtain a counter-intuitive result: the multiplex-induced coherence resonance in the layer which is deterministic in isolation manifests itself even more strongly than that in the noisy layer.
Diverse AR-V7 cistromes in castration-resistant prostate cancer are governed by HoxB13
Authors: Chen Zhong , Wu Dayong , Thomas-Ahner Jennifer M. , Lu Changxue , Zhao Pei , Zhang Qingfu , Geraghty Connor , Yan Pearlly S. , Hankey William , Sunkel Benjamin , Cheng Xiaolong , Antonarakis Emmanuel S. , Wang Qi-En , Liu Zhihua , Huang Tim H.-M. , Jin Victor X. , Clinton Steven K. , Luo Jun , Huang Jiaoti , Wang Qianben
Published: May 2018

Significance

Mechanisms underlying androgen receptor (AR) splice variant 7 (AR-V7) oncogenic function at the genomic level remain poorly defined. Studies here found that AR-V7 cistromes are cell-context–dependent in castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) cells and tissues, resulting in tremendous diversity in AR-V7–regulated transcriptomes across CRPC patients. Thus, few downstream targets of AR-V7 can universally account for CRPC progression, leaving us without adequate, common, viable therapeutic targets for this heterogeneous disease in which AR-V7 itself is not druggable by antiandrogens. Remarkably, we discovered that HoxB13 governs the diverse AR-V7 cistromes among CRPC, thus shifting focus from the previously characterized role of HoxB13 in androgen-dependent prostate cancer to a distinct role in CRPC. These findings will significantly impact therapeutic strategies for AR-V7–driven CRPC, for which there is no approved therapy.
Increase in chemokine CXCL1 by ERβ ligand treatment is a key mediator in promoting axon myelination
Authors: Karim Hawra , Kim Sung Hoon , Lapato Andrew S. , Yasui Norio , Katzenellenbogen John A. , Tiwari-Woodruff Seema K.
Published: May 2018

Significance

CXCL1 is a major neutrophil chemoattractant that binds to the chemokine receptor, CXCR2, on neutrophils and oligodendrocytes. Estrogen receptor β ligand treatment in a mouse model of multiple sclerosis induces an increase in peripheral and brain CXCL1 levels that correlate with an increase in axon remyelination. Oligodendrocyte progenitor recruitment and differentiation by CXCL1, in combination with attenuated IFN-γ production reducing apoptosis, may account for at least one avenue whereby estrogen receptor β ligands exert their clinical benefits.
Metaproteomics method to determine carbon sources and assimilation pathways of species in microbial communities
Authors: Kleiner Manuel , Dong Xiaoli , Hinzke Tjorven , Wippler Juliane , Thorson Erin , Mayer Bernhard , Strous Marc
Published: May 2018

Significance

To understand the roles that microorganisms play in diverse environments such as the open ocean or the human intestinal tract, we need an understanding of their metabolism and physiology. A variety of methods such as metagenomics and metaproteomics exist to assess the metabolism of environmental microorganisms based on gene content and gene expression. These methods often only provide indirect evidence for which substrates are used by a microorganism in a community. The direct protein stable isotope fingerprint (SIF) method that we developed allows linking microbial species in communities to the environmental carbon sources they consume by determining their stable carbon isotope signature. Direct protein-SIF also allows assessing which carbon fixation pathway is used by autotrophic microorganisms that directly assimilate CO
2
.
Structural basis for MTR4–ZCCHC8 interactions that stimulate the MTR4 helicase in the nuclear exosome-targeting complex
Authors: Puno M. Rhyan , Lima Christopher D.
Published: May 2018

Significance

Aberrant or unwanted transcripts can be degraded by the RNA exosome with the help of the nuclear exosome-targeting (NEXT) complex. NEXT, composed of RNA-binding protein RBM7, scaffold ZCCHC8, and helicase MTR4, is implicated in stress response, neurodegeneration, and viral ribogenesis. Here, we characterize the activities of NEXT that support its role in exosome-mediated decay. NEXT catalyzes 3′→5′ helicase activity and disrupts RNA:RNA and DNA:RNA duplexes more efficiently than MTR4. Optimal activity is observed when substrates include a uridine-rich motif, for interactions with RBM7, and a 3′ poly(A) tail. The ZCCHC8 C-terminal domain binds the helicase core and can stimulate MTR4 helicase/ATPase activities. Our results highlight the interplay among NEXT subunits to ensure effective targeting of substrates.
Unimolecular reaction of acetone oxide and its reaction with water in the atmosphere
Authors: Long Bo , Bao Junwei Lucas , Truhlar Donald G.
Published: May 2018

Significance

Obtaining rate constants and tropospheric lifetimes of Criegee intermediates is of critical significance for atmospheric modeling. We report calculations that can produce quantitative rate constants by variational transition state theory with corner-cutting tunneling based on implicit potential energy surfaces calibrated against high-level calculations. Demonstration of this capability is particularly significant because the calculations can fully cover the atmospheric conditions, which is hard to do by experiment. The present results also show the usefulness of the M11-L and MN15-L density functionals in describing this nominally multireference system. Modern quantum chemistry is now accurate enough to be used for atmospheric chemistry, and the present methods and strategies can be also be used to study other atmospherically important reactions of other medium-sized molecules.
Injuries in formal and informal non‐professional soccer – an overview of injury context, causes, and characteristics
Authors: Gebert Angela , Gerber Markus , Pühse Uwe , Gassmann Philippe , Stamm Hanspeter , Lamprecht Markus
Published: May 2018

The objective of this study is to analyse context, causes, and characteristics of injuries in non‐professional soccer. Therefore, a retrospective telephone survey was carried out with persons who were injured while playing soccer and who reported this accident to the Swiss National Accident Insurance Fund (Suva). Based on these data, an analysis of 708 soccer injuries was performed. The findings show that 30.1% of the injuries occurred during informal soccer play, and 75.4% of the injured persons were soccer club members. 53.0% of all injuries were caused by contact and 29.5% by foul play. Foul play was not associated with injury severity. With respect to injury severity, twisting/turning and being tackled by an opponent were identified as the most influental injury causes. Moreover, the risk of being severely injured was particularly high players of the 30+/40+ amateur leagues. In conclusion, the findings highlight that 30+/40+ league players are a major target group for the prevention of severe soccer injuries. Soccer clubs may constitute an appropriate multiplier for implementing prevention strategies such as fair play education, healthy play behaviours, and prevention programmes. Finally, a better understanding of injury situations leading to severe injuries is needed to improve injury prevention.
The CCL-K11 on-going key comparison. Final report for the year 2016
Authors: Matus M , Duta A , Teodorescu D , Grozea L , Saraiva F , Robertsson L
Published: May 2018

Lasers from two national metrological institutes (NMIs) were compared in 2016 as part of the CCL-K11 on-going key comparison, initiated by the 13th meeting of the ComitÃ© Consultative des Longueurs (CCL) in 2007. The absolute frequency of R(127) 11-5 transitions of molecular iodine was measured for these lasers following the technical protocol for CCL-K11. The results of these measurements are compiled in the present report. The comparison reports, as communicated by each participant, are included as appendices.

This document constitutes the eighth final report for the on-going key comparison CCL-K11.

Main text

To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database kcdb.bipm.org/.

The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCL, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).
Understanding Why Pictorial Cigarette Pack Warnings Increase Quit Attempts
Authors: Brewer Noel T , Parada Humberto , Hall Marissa G , Boynton Marcella H , Noar Seth M , Ribisl Kurt M
Published: May 2018

Background

Our randomized trial found that pictorial cigarette pack warnings elicited more quit attempts than text-only warnings.

Purpose

In the current study, we sought to identify psychological mechanisms that explain why pictorial cigarette pack warnings change behavior.

Methods

In 2014 and 2015, we recruited 2,149 adult smokers in NC and CA, USA. We randomly assigned smokers to receive on their cigarette packs for 4 weeks either a text-only warning (one of the USA’s current warnings on the side of cigarette packs) or a pictorial warning (one of the USA’s proposed text warnings with pictures on the top half of the front and back of cigarette packs).

Results

Pictorial warnings increased attention to, reactions to, and social interactions about cigarette pack warnings (all p < .05). However, pictorial warnings changed almost no belief or attitude measures. Mediators of the impact of pictorial warnings included increased attention, negative affect, social interactions, thinking about the warning and harms of smoking, and intentions to quit (all p < .05). Analyses also found that pictorial warnings led to greater avoidance of the warnings, which was associated with more quit attempts (p < .05).

Conclusions

Pictorial warnings increased quit attempts by eliciting aversive reactions and by keeping the message vividly in smokers’ minds. Contrary to predictions from several theories of health behavior, the warnings exerted little of their influence through changes in beliefs and attitudes and none of their influence through changes in risk perception. We propose the Tobacco Warnings Model based on these findings.

Clinical Trial information

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02247908; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02247908.
Variation of mutational burden in healthy human tissues suggests non-random strand segregation and allows measuring somatic mutation rates
Authors: Werner Benjamin , Sottoriva Andrea
Published: May 2018

The immortal strand hypothesis poses that stem cells could produce differentiated progeny while conserving the original template strand, thus avoiding accumulating somatic mutations. However, quantitating the extent of non-random DNA strand segregation in human stem cells remains difficult in vivo. Here we show that the change of the mean and variance of the mutational burden with age in healthy human tissues allows estimating strand segregation probabilities and somatic mutation rates. We analysed deep sequencing data from healthy human colon, small intestine, liver, skin and brain. We found highly effective non-random DNA strand segregation in all adult tissues (mean strand segregation probability: 0.98, standard error bounds (0.97,0.99)). In contrast, non-random strand segregation efficiency is reduced to 0.87 (0.78,0.88) in neural tissue during early development, suggesting stem cell pool expansions due to symmetric self-renewal. Healthy somatic mutation rates differed across tissue types, ranging from 3.5×10−9 /bp/division in small intestine to 1.6×10−7/bp/division in skin.

Author Summary

Cairn proposed in 1975 that upon proliferation, cells might not segregate DNA strands randomly into daughter cells, but preferentially keep the ancestral (blue print) template strand in stem cells. This mechanism would allow to drastically reduce the rate of mutation accumulation in human tissues. Testing the hypothesis in human stem cells within their natural tissue environment remains challenging. Here we show that the patterns of mutation accumulation in human tissues with age support highly effective non-random DNA strand segregation after adolescence. In contrast, during early development in infants, DNA strand segregation is less effective, likely because stem cell populations are continuing to grow.
Opinions of 12 to 13-year-olds in Austria and Australia on the worry, cause and imminence of Climate Change
Authors: Harker-Schuch Inez , Mills Frank , Lade Steven , Colvin Rebecca
Published: May 2018

Although we are in the third decade of climate science communication as a discipline, and there is overwhelming scientific consensus and physical evidence for climate change, the general public continues to wrestle with climate change policy and advocacy. Early adolescence (12 to 13 years old) is a critical but under-researched demographic for the formation of attitudes related to climate change. This paper presents opinions on the worry, cause, and imminence of climate change that were collected fromn=463 1styear secondary school students (12-13 years old) in public secondary schools in inner-urban centres in Austria and Australia. Overall, 86.83% of eligible respondents agreed that climate change was probably or definitely something we should worry about, 80.33% agreed that climate change was probably or definitely caused by humans, and 83.17% agreed that climate change was probably or definitely something that was happening now. The respondents’ opinions were also compared to their respective adult population, with Australian 12-13 year olds showing strong positive climate-friendly attitudes, both in comparison to their adult population, and to their Austrian peers. In addition, although the opinions of Austrian 12-13 year olds were quite high, they did not reflect the higher climate-friendly opinions of their adult community. Our results suggest that socio-cultural worldview or socio-cultural cognition theory may not have the influence on this age group as it does on the respective adult population – and, if they are affected, there are attitudes or factors in this age group which resist the opinion-influence from their mature community. These findings are significant as early adolescents may be pivotal in the climate science communication arena and investigating their opinions with regard to climate change may offer an unexplored and under-utilised target for future communication efforts and climate literacy programmes.
BPIFB3 facilitates flavivirus infection by controlling RETREG1-dependent reticulophagy
Authors: Evans Azia S. , Lennemann Nicholas J. , Fan Ka man , Coyne Carolyn B.
Published: May 2018

The flavivirus genus, which includes dengue virus (DENV) and Zika virus (ZIKV), are significant human pathogens and the prevalence of infected vectors continues to geographically expand. Both DENV and ZIKV rely on expansion of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and the induction of autophagy to establish a productive viral infection. However, little is known regarding the interplay between the requirements for autophagy initiation during infection and the mechanisms used by these viruses to avoid clearance through the autophagic pathway. We recently showed that DENV and ZIKV inhibit reticulophagy (specific degradation of the ER through autophagy) by cleaving reticulophagy regulator 1 (RETREG1), an autophagy receptor responsible for targeted ER sheet degradation. These data suggest that DENV and ZIKV require specific autophagic pathways for their replication, while other autophagic pathways are antiviral. We previously identified BPI Fold Containing Family B Member 3 (BPIFB3) as a regulator of autophagy that negatively controls enterovirus replication. Here, we show that in contrast to enteroviruses, BPIFB3 functions as a positive regulator of DENV and ZIKV infection and that its RNAi-mediated silencing drastically inhibits the formation of viral replication organelles. We show that BPIFB3 depletion enhances ER fragmentation, while its overexpression protects against autophagy-induced ER degradation, demonstrating that BPIFB3 serves as a specific regulator of ER turnover. We further show that the antiviral effects of BPIFB3 depletion on flavivirus infection are reversed in RETREG1-depleted cells, and that BPIFB3 associates with RETREG1 within the ER, suggesting that BPIFB3 regulates a RETREG1-specific reticulophagy pathway. Collectively, these studies identify BPIFB3 as a regulator of the reticulophagy pathway and define the requirements for a novel host regulator of flavivirus infection.

Author Summary

Flaviviruses and other arthropod transmitted viruses represent a widespread global health problem with limited treatment options currently available. Thus, greater knowledge of the host factors required for replication and transmission is needed to provide a better understanding of the cellular requirements for infection. Here, we show that the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) localized protein, BPIFB3 is required to facilitate flavivirus infection. Depletion of BPIFB3 in cells inhibits dengue virus and Zika virus infection prior to replication of the viral genome. Mechanistically, we show that BPIFB3 inhibits ER degradation in an autophagy-specific manner and that loss of BPIFB3 decreases the availability of ER membranes needed for flavivirus replication. We further show that BPIFB3 specifically regulates the RETREG1 pathway, but not other pathways of ER turnover. Together, our data define a previously uncharacterized method of regulating ER degradation and show that BPIFB3 is an essential host factor for a productive flavivirus infection.
Scrutinization of Soil Seed Bank from Arid to Mesic Habitats of Dera Ghazi Khan
Authors: Gulshan Allah Bakhsh , Bakhsh Ali , Irfan Syed Mazhar , Hussain Sabir , Hayat Khazir , Atta Muhammad Imran
Published: May 2018

The research was conducted to investigate the persistent soil seed bank composition and its relation to the above-ground vegetation of upland area (piedmont) to low land area (alluvial) landscape from arid to mesic region of Dera Ghazi Khan. A transact of 40 kilometers was laid down from arid to mesic habitat. At each 2 km a quadrate of 1 m−2sizes was thrown in the field to collect a soil sample of 2kg from soil cores ranging 0-15 cm deep for the analysis of soil seed bank. Twenty different sites were sampled by throwing 6 quadrates at each site making a total of 120 samples. Three thousand seeds were obtained of 50 different species from all the collected samples. Soil seed bank density m−2was higher in the alluvial plains of Dera Ghazi Khan. Most of the perennial species, which were xerophytic in nature such asAerua persica, Calotropis procera, Fagonia indica, Leptadaenia pyrotechnica, Peganum hermala, Rhazya strictaandSuaeda fructicosawere found in the piedmont (arid) soil habitat and the soil seed bank relatively less than the species found in the alluvial (Mesic) soil habitat, which were mostly of annual life span such asChenopodium murale, Euphorbia prostrata, Medicago denticulata, Fumaria indica, andWithania somnifera. From this study it is concluded that the similarity found between soil seed bank and above ground vegetation of both historic types of habitats piedmont (arid) and alluvial (mesic) of Dera Ghazi Khan
Using EXAFS data to improve atomistic structural models of glasses
Authors: Bowron Daniel T.
Published: May 2018

Quantitative characterization of the atomic structure of multi-component glasses is a long-standing scientific challenge. This is because in most cases no single experimental technique is capable of completely resolving all aspects of a disordered system's structure. In this situation, the most practical solution for the materials scientist is to apply multiple experimental probes offering differing degrees of insight into a material's properties. This powerful and widely adopted approach does, however, transfer the characterization challenge to the task of developing a coherent data analysis framework that can appropriately combine the diverse experimental insight into a single, data-consistent, structural model. Here, taking a terbium metaphosphate glass as an example system, it is illustrated how this can be achieved for X-ray diffraction and extended X-ray absorption fine-structure (EXAFS) spectroscopy data, using an empirical potential structure refinement approach. This methodology is based on performing a Monte Carlo simulation of the structure of a disordered material that is guided to a solution consistent with the provided experimental data, by a series of pairwise perturbation potentials operating on a classical reference potential foundation. For multi-component glasses the incorporation of EXAFS data into the resulting bulk structural models is shown to make a critical contribution that is required to properly account for the increase in local structural order that can develop in the melt-quench process of glass formation.
Enhanced insulating behavior in the Ir-vacant Sr2Ir1–x
O4 system dominated by the local structure distortion
Authors: Cheng Jie , Dong Peng , Li Bin , Liu Shengli , Wang Xiangfu , Wang Yu , Li Xing'ao
Published: May 2018

Sr2IrO4, known as the J
eff = 1/2 Mott insulator, was predicted to be an unconventional superconductor upon doping since it highly resembles the high-temperature cuprates. However, recent work pointed out an enhanced insulating behavior in the Ir-vacant Sr2Ir1–x
O4 system. In this contribution, to investigate the microscopic mechanism of its enhanced insulating behavior, X-ray absorption spectroscopy was applied to study the electronic structure and local structure distortion of Sr2Ir1–x
O4. Due to the presence of Ir5+ ions, the preconceived holes are barely doped in the Ir-vacant system. Nevertheless, Ir vacancies finely modulate the local atomic structure, i.e. the topology of IrO6 octahedra and the in-plane Ir—O1—Ir bond angle. Combined with theoretical calculations, it is demonstrated that both the more distorted IrO6 octahedra and decreased Ir—O1—Ir angle contribute to the increment of the band gap, and then result in the enhanced insulating state for Sr2Ir1–x
O4.
An exploratory study on the impact of mobile ICT on productivity in construction projects
Authors: Hasan Abid , Elmualim Abbas , Rameezdeen Raufdeen , Baroudi Bassam , Marshall Andrew
Published: May 2018

Purpose

The issue of low productivity has remained a very stern and chronic problem in construction projects. Previous studies have found poor communication as one of the leading causes of low-construction productivity. Recent advances in the field of information and communication technologies (ICT) have the potential to enhance communication and access to information in construction projects. However, the implications of the use of mobile ICT on construction productivity have not been investigated in sufficient depth, especially from the perspectives of its users, i.e. construction management (CM) professionals. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

A focus group session involving ten experienced CM professionals from different organisations of the South Australian construction industry was moderated by a group of four researchers to gather data on mobile ICT usage and its implications for construction productivity.

Findings

Lack of training and guidelines on effective applications of these technologies to construction projects is a major bottleneck. Results indicate that despite noticeable advances in mobile ICT, differences in usage style and user attitude have limited their overall impact on productivity.

Research limitations/implications

This paper is based on data gathered from CM professionals working in the South Australian construction industry.

Practical implications

The study highlights the importance of strategising the use of mobile ICT to achieve the desired productivity rates through policy, training, work-life balance, and deeper and wider understanding of these technologies.

Originality/value

The study examines the perceptions of CM professionals on the usefulness of mobile ICT in construction projects and its implications for construction productivity.
Low-dose, high-frequency CPR training with feedback for firefighters
Authors: Abelsson Anna , Appelgren Jari , Axelsson Christer
Published: May 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effects of the intervention of low-dose, high-frequency cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training with feedback for firefighters for one month.

Design/methodology/approach

The study had a quantitative approach. Data were collected through an intervention by means of simulation. The data collection consisted of a pre- and post-assessment of 38 firefighter’s CPR performance.

Findings

There was a statistically significant improvement from pre- to post-assessment regarding participants’ compression rates. Compression depth increased statistically significantly to average 2 mm too deep in the group. Recoil decreased in the group with an average of 1 mm for the better. There was a statistically significant improvement in participants’ ventilation volume from pre- to post-assessment.

Originality/value

Prehospital staff such as firefighters, police, and ambulance perform CPR under less than optimal circumstances. It is therefore of the utmost importance that these professionals are trained in the best possible way. The result of this study shows that low-dose, high-frequency CPR training with an average of six training sessions per month improves ventilation volume, compression depth, rate, and recoil. This study concludes that objective feedback during training enhances the firefighters’ CPR skills which in turn also could be applied to police and ambulance CPR training.
Barriers to accessing mortgages in Nigeria’s housing markets
Authors: Nwuba Chukwuma C. , Chukwuma-Nwuba Eunice Oluwakemi
Published: May 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate barriers to accessing mortgages in Nigeria’s urban housing markets with the main focus on Kaduna State. The objective was to establish the diverse factors that constitute barriers to urban households’ access to mortgages for homeownership from the perceptions of households, mortgage lenders and the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used cross-sectional survey with triangulation of results. To enable the triangulation, three new samples were developed from 450 surveys with households and 10 completed by lenders, both in Kaduna State and one survey undertaken by the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria. Data were collected with questionnaires designed on five-point Likert model. Data analysis utilized descriptive statistics and one-sample t-test. Triangulation enabled cross-validation of the results.

Findings

The barriers include low incomes and savings which constrain households’ ability to pay mortgage instalments and deposits, respectively, high interest rates, poor access to land, inability of potential borrowers to provide certificates of occupancy on their land, inadequate loanable funds and inadequate number of mortgage lending institutions.

Practical implications

The study has the potential to provide a basis for mortgage market reforms. Mortgage market reforms should be encompassing because it requires action in some other sectors.

Social implications

The social implication of the study is the possibility of motivating actions to deal with the diverse barriers to accessing mortgages which have constituted deterrents to households from realizing their homeownership aspirations and enjoying the benefits of homeownership and consequently contributing to inadequate housing and poor living conditions.

Originality/value

The study provides distinctive insight into Nigeria’s mortgage market by integrating the views of various stakeholders on a subject of social and economic significance. It contributes to the evidence-base around mortgage market reforms in Nigeria.
Absorptive capacity and cooperation evidence in innovation from public policies for innovation
Authors: Moura Dulcineia Catarina , Madeira Maria José , Duarte Filipe A.P. , Carvalho João , Kahilana Orlando
Published: May 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to better understand whether firm cooperation and absorptive capacity foster success in seeking public financial support for innovation activities and, by doing so, how they contribute to innovation output.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors therefore extend the existing literature focusing on the effects of cooperation and absorptive capacity on specific public financial support for innovation activities in Portuguese firms from local or regional government, central administration and the European Union by using available data from the Community Innovation Survey CIS 2010 and the application of logistic regression models. The empirical analysis enabled a better understanding of the positive relationship of the variables that determine the form of public financial support in the integration of incentives within firms to stimulate innovation.

Findings

Therefore, as the level of absorptive capacity in Portuguese firms increases, so does the demand for benefits from public financial support to stimulate innovation from the European Union also increases. The same analysis, now considering the determinant cooperation, notes the positive effects of institutional sources of information and cooperation, in the propensity for seeking public financial incentives from the Central Administration and the European Union. As for internal information and cooperation sources, they are positively related to the integration of incentive measures from the local or Regional Administration and Central Administration.

Originality/value

The paper presents results that allow us to propose some suggestions that both the firms and those responsible for the implementation of public policies can undertake to increment innovation performance.
Case study of home care for isolated and frail elderly patients by general practice nurses
Authors: Longstaff Sarah , Rees Jeni , Good Elizabeth , Kirby Elizabeth
Published: May 2018

Purpose

In a novel approach, two part-time “Link Nurses” within an NE Hampshire practice of 16,500 patients were funded by a local charity, to assess and manage unmet needs of isolated frail elderly patients at home. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

Patients in this vulnerable group with no recorded healthcare contact for a prolonged period were identified from practice computer records. One group was to be assessed at home, and appropriate interventions effected. Follow-up visits or telephone contacts also offered support to carers as well as isolated individuals. A matching quasi control group was identified but not visited, to assess the overall impact on the patients, GP and other healthcare contacts. Difficulties with the control group were encountered and addressed.

Findings

Important unmet healthcare needs were found amongst the visited patients, which the nurses were able to address themselves, or refer to the GPs or appropriate agencies. The control group demonstrated greater demand for out-of-hours, GP and district nurse contacts, and more unplanned hospital admissions.

Practical implications

Besides dealing with unmet needs at home, ongoing support by local GP nurses may reduce bed-blocking by moving away from “crisis management” of patients in this vulnerable group.

Originality/value

Few other trials have employed practice nurses to see and manage frail elderly patients in their homes.
Looking into some of the risk factors of mental health: the mediating role of maladaptive schemas in mothers’ parenting style and child anxiety disorders
Authors: Adibsereshki Narges , Abdollahzadeh Rafi Mahdi , Hassanzadeh Aval Maryam , Tahan Hassan
Published: May 2018

Purpose

Anxiety disorders have a high prevalence in children. Those children with anxious symptoms are more likely to experience significant disruption in their lives. This disruption can interrupt or even stop a child from participating in a variety of typical childhood experiences. It is understood that genetic and environmental factors may cause this disorder. The purpose of this paper is to focus on environmental factors, namely, the mediating role of maladaptive schemas in mothers’ child-rearing and childhood anxiety disorders.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used correlation-modeling to assess the analysis. The sample included 326 students (aged 9-12 years old) and their mothers. The parenting style (Baumrind, 1973), Early Maladaptive Schema (Rijkeboer and de Boo, 2010), and anxiety disorders (Muriset al., 2006) questionnaires were used in this study.

Findings

The results showed a relationship between parenting styles of mothers and childhood anxiety disorders, a significant correlation between childhood maladaptive schemas and childhood anxiety disorders, a relation between child-rearing styles and childhood maladaptive schemas, and finally a mediating role on childhood anxiety disorders and mothers’ child-rearing styles for some childhood maladaptive schemas.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the knowledge base of the importance of children’s mental health. The paper analyzes the relationship of mothers’ parenting styles and children’s anxiety. It also focuses on maladaptive schemas as a mediator and its relationship with childhood anxiety disorders.