bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nuclear stress bodies: Interaction of its components in oncogenic regulation
Authors: Chatterjee Manjima , Dass J. Febin Prabhu , Sengupta Sonali
Published: May 2019

Oncogenesis involves continuous genetic alterations that lead to compromised cellular integrity and immortal cell fate. The cells remain under excessive stress due to endo‐ and exogenous influences. Human Satellite III long noncoding RNA (SatIII lncRNA) is a key regulator of the global cellular stress response, although its function is poorly explained in cancers. The principal regulator of cancer meshwork is tumor protein p53, which if altered may result in chemoresistance. The heat shock factor 1 (HSF1) being a common molecule between the oncogenic control and global cellular stress acts as an oncogene as well as transcribes SatIII upon heat shock. This prompted us to determine the structure of SatIII RNA and establish the association between SatIII‐HSF1‐p53. We determined the most stable structure of SatIII RNA with the least energy of − 115.7 kcal/mol. Also, we observed a possible interaction of p53 with SatIII and HSF1 using support vector machine (SVM) algorithm for predicting RNA‐protein interaction (RPI). Further, we employ the STRING database to understand if p53 is an interacting component of the nuclear stress bodies (nSBs). A precise inference was drawn from molecular docking which confirmed the interaction of SatIII‐HSF1‐p53, where a mutated p53 resulted in an altered DNA‐binding property with the SatIII molecule. This study being first of its kind infers p53 to be a possible integral component of the nSBs, which may regulate cellular stress response during cancer progression in the presence of HSF1 and SatIII. An extended research on the regulations of SatIII and p53 may open new avenues in the field of apoptosis in cancer and the early approach of molecular targeting.
NEK5 interacts with topoisomerase IIβ and is involved in the DNA damage response induced by etoposide
Authors: Melo‐Hanchuk Talita Diniz , Slepicka Priscila Ferreira , Pelegrini Alessandra Luiza , Menck Carlos Frederico Martins , Kobarg Jörg
Published: May 2019

Cells are daily submitted to high levels of DNA lesions that trigger complex pathways and cellular responses by cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, alterations in transcriptional response, and the onset of DNA repair. Members of the NIMA‐related kinase (NEK) family have been related to DNA damage response and repair and the first insight about NEK5 in this context is related to its role in centrosome separation resulting in defects in chromosome integrity. Here we investigate the potential correlation between NEK5 and the DNA damage repair index. The effect of NEK5 in double‐strand breaks caused by etoposide was accessed by alkaline comet assay and revealed that NEK5‐silenced cells are more sensitive to etoposide treatment. Topoisomerase IIβ (TOPIIβ) is a target of etoposide that leads to the production of DNA breaks. We demonstrate that NEK5 interacts with TOPIIβ, and the dynamics of this interaction is evaluated by proximity ligation assay. The complex NEK5/TOPIIβ is formed immediately after etoposide treatment. Taken together, the results of our study reveal that NEK5 depletion increases DNA damage and impairs proper DNA damage response, pointing out NEK5 as a potential kinase contributor to genomic stability.
Risk and resources: A qualitative perspective on low‐level sentencing in Virginia
Authors: Metz Anne , Monahan John , Garrett Brandon , Siebert Luke
Published: May 2019

Virginia's sentencing guidelines include alternative sanctions based on the use of a quantitative instrument called the Nonviolent Risk Assessment (NVRA) that identifies individuals convicted of drug and property crimes that are considered to be at lower risk of recidivism. Although nondispositive, the NVRA affords judges the discretion to grant alternative sentences to eligible low‐risk defendants. In this study, we explore how judges make use of the NVRA instrument when sentencing individuals convicted of low‐level drug and property crimes. Through semistructured interviews (N = 24) and inductive thematic analysis, the research team identified contextual factors that influence the use of the NVRA results, including: the availability of alternative programs in a community, the role of court actors, particularly prosecutors, in shaping the sentencing outcomes, as well as an individual judge's willingness to defer to or reject negotiated plea agreements offered by the prosecutor. Our research shows that while some judges are aware of and embrace the benefits of the instrument, others lack knowledge altogether of its function and empirical basis. We identified seven themes that account for variation in how actuarial risk is utilized in the sentencing process. Our findings provide insight into the practical challenges of using risk‐based assessment as a tool for the sentencing of low‐level convictions. As more states adopt risk‐based approaches to sentencing, studying Virginia, which has gone farther than other states in legislating this strategy, becomes increasingly important.
Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Modeling Suggests Limited Drug‐Drug Interaction for Fesoterodine When Coadministered With Mirabegron
Authors: Lin Jian , Goosen Theunis C. , Tse Susanna , Yamagami Hidetomi , Malhotra Bimal
Published: May 2019

5‐Hydroxymethyl tolterodine (5‐HMT; the active fesoterodine metabolite) is metabolized via the cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2D6 and CYP3A pathways. Mirabegron is a moderate CYP2D6 inhibitor and weak CYP3A inhibitor. Potential drug‐drug interactions (DDIs) following coadministration of these 2 overactive bladder treatments were estimated using physiologically based pharmacokinetic models, developed and verified by comparing predicted and observed pharmacokinetic profiles from clinical studies. Models predicted and verified mirabegron and desipramine (CYP2D6 substrate) and 5‐HMT and ketoconazole (strong CYP3A inhibitor) DDIs. Mirabegron model‐predicted mean steady‐state AUC and Cmax were within 11% of clinical observations. The predicted versus observed geometric mean ratio (GMR) of AUCinf for CYP2D6 substrates desipramine and metoprolol coadministered with mirabegron 100 or 160 mg once daily were 3.47 versus 3.41 and 2.97 versus 3.29, respectively, indicating that the mirabegron model can be used to predict clinical CYP2D6 inhibition. 5‐HMT fractional clearance by CYP3A and CYP2D6 was verified from clinical DDI studies with a potent CYP3A4 inhibitor (ketoconazole) and inducer (rifampicin) in CYP2D6 extensive and poor metabolizers and with a moderate CYP3A inhibitor (fluconazole) in healthy volunteers. 5‐HMT AUCinf and Cmax GMRs for fesoterodine DDIs were all predicted within 1.26‐fold of clinical observation, providing verification for the fesoterodine substrate model. The predicted changes in 5‐HMT AUCinf and Cmax ratios for 8 mg fesoterodine when coadministered with 50 mg mirabegron were 1.22‐fold and 1.17‐fold, respectively, relative to 8 mg fesoterodine given alone. This modest increase in 5‐HMT exposures by approximately 20% is considered clinically insignificant and would not require fesoterodine dose adjustment when coadministered with mirabegron within approved daily‐dose ranges.
The impact of postsynaptic density 95 blocking peptide (Tat‐NR2B9c) and an iNOS inhibitor (1400W) on proteomic profile of the hippocampus in C57BL/6J mouse model of kainate‐induced epileptogenesis
Authors: Tse Karen , Hammond Dean , Simpson Deborah , Beynon Robert J. , Beamer Edward , Tymianski Michael , Salter Michael W. , Sills Graeme J. , Thippeswamy Thimmasettappa
Published: May 2019

Antiepileptogenic agents that prevent the development of epilepsy following a brain insult remain the holy grail of epilepsy therapeutics. We have employed a label‐free proteomic approach that allows quantification of large numbers of brain‐expressed proteins in a single analysis in the mouse (male C57BL/6J) kainate (KA) model of epileptogenesis. In addition, we have incorporated two putative antiepileptogenic drugs, postsynaptic density protein‐95 blocking peptide (PSD95BP or Tat‐NR2B9c) and a highly selective inducible nitric oxide synthase inhibitor, 1400W, to give an insight into how such agents might ameliorate epileptogenesis. The test drugs were administered after the induction of status epilepticus (SE) and the animals were euthanized at 7 days, their hippocampi removed, and subjected to LC‐MS/MS analysis. A total of 2,579 proteins were identified; their normalized abundance was compared between treatment groups using ANOVA, with correction for multiple testing by false discovery rate. Significantly altered proteins were subjected to gene ontology and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses. KA‐induced SE was most robustly associated with an alteration in the abundance of proteins involved in neuroinflammation, including heat shock protein beta‐1 (HSP27), glial fibrillary acidic protein, and CD44 antigen. Treatment with PSD95BP or 1400W moderated the abundance of several of these proteins plus that of secretogranin and Src substrate cortactin. Pathway analysis identified the glutamatergic synapse as a key target for both drugs. Our observations require validation in a larger‐scale investigation, with candidate proteins explored in more detail. Nevertheless, this study has identified several mechanisms by which epilepsy might develop and several targets for novel drug development.

Open Practices

This article has been awarded Open Data. All materials and data are publicly accessible as supporting information. Learn more about the Open Practices badges from the Center for Open Science: https://osf.io/tvyxz/wiki.
Biogenic amines and activity levels alter the neural energetic response to aggressive social cues in the honey bee Apis mellifera
Authors: Rittschof Clare C. , Vekaria Hemendra J. , Palmer Joseph H. , Sullivan Patrick G.
Published: May 2019

Mitochondrial activity is highly dynamic in the healthy brain, and it can reflect both the signaling potential and the signaling history of neural circuits. Recent studies spanning invertebrates to mammals have highlighted a role for neural mitochondrial dynamics in learning and memory processes as well as behavior. In the current study, we investigate the interplay between biogenic amine signaling and neural energetics in the honey bee, Apis mellifera. In this species, aggressive behaviors are regulated by neural energetic state and biogenic amine titers, but it is unclear how these mechanisms are linked to impact behavioral expression. We show that brain mitochondrial number is highest in aggression‐relevant brain regions and in individual bees that are most responsive to aggressive cues, emphasizing the importance of energetics in modulating this phenotype. We also show that the neural energetic response to alarm pheromone, an aggression inducing social cue, is activity dependent, modulated by the “fight or flight” insect neurotransmitter octopamine. Two other neuroactive compounds known to cause variation in aggression, dopamine, and serotonin, also modulate neural energetic state in aggression‐relevant regions of the brain. However, the effects of these compounds on respiration at baseline and following alarm pheromone exposure are distinct, suggesting unique mechanisms underlying variation in mitochondrial respiration in these circuits. These results motivate new explanations for the ways in which biogenic amines alter sensory perception in the context of aggression. Considering neural energetics improves predictions about the regulation of complex and context‐dependent behavioral phenotypes.
Tourists' reflections on sustainability in a biosphere reserve landscape
Authors: Hoppstadius Fredrik
Published: May 2019

There is a lack of critical engagement and a focus on practical solutions in sustainable tourism debates. Research on biosphere reserve (BR) tourists has focused mainly on descriptions, while not critically engaging in issues relating to sustainable tourism. This article explores tourists' reflections on sustainable development in the landscape of a Swedish BR. The findings indicate that BR landscapes can increase environmental awareness, that aesthetics are important to how tourists make sense of sustainability, and that the functionality of the BR landscape shows how people perceive environmental concerns and how they see their own roles in affecting the landscape.
Acne Treatment With Light Absorbing Gold Microparticles and Optical Pulses: An Open‐Label European Multi‐Centered Study in Moderate to Moderately Severe Acne Vulgaris Patients
Authors: Fuchs Christine Sofie Krohn , Bay Christiane , Adatto Maurice , Lomholt Hans , Haedersdal Merete
Published: May 2019

Background and Objective

Recently, a novel acne treatment based on selective photothermolysis of pilosebaceous units with follicular delivery of inert gold microparticles as an exogenous chromophore and diode laser pulses has been developed. To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a single monotherapy treatment regimen with gold microparticles and diode laser exposure in patients with moderate and moderately severe acne. Further, to evaluate the added benefit of a second treatment regimen combined with pharmaceutical acne treatment in patients with inadequate initial response.

Materials and Methods

Patients with moderate and moderately severe facial acne were recruited in this open‐label, pilot study. A single treatment regimen consisted of three weekly facial treatments with topically applied gold microparticles and diode laser pulses. Outcome measures were the proportion of patients with ≥40% improvement in number of acne lesions (weighted lesion count [WLC]) at 12 weeks (single treatment regimen, primary outcome measure), 24, and 36 weeks from baseline (two treatment regimens), safety, and patient satisfaction.

Results

A total of 28 patients were enrolled in the study (18 males, 10 females, 19 patients with moderate acne severity, 9 with moderately severe, mean age: 19.8 years). Twenty‐five patients underwent analysis for outcome measures. After a single monotherapy treatment regimen, 76% patients (19/25) achieved ≥40% reduction in WLC (mean WLC reduction: 63%; SD: 13%). Of the patients undergoing two treatment regimens (n = 9 patients), 56% experienced a reduction in acne lesion burden (WLC) ≥40% at 24 weeks and 89% 36 weeks post‐baseline. Mean pain score was 4.0 (SD: 1.3), and transient erythema and perifollicular edema were commonly noted after treatment. Most patients (81%) were either “satisfied” or “very satisfied” with the treatment.

Conclusion

Acne therapy based on selective photothermolysis with gold microparticles shows promise and may be used in treatment of moderate to moderately severe acne. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effects of Different 980‐nm Diode Laser Parameters in Hepatectomy
Authors: Ma Tao , Chai Yi‐Chao , Zhu Hao‐Yang , Chen Huan , Wang Yue , Li Qing‐Shan , Pang Li‐Hui , Wu Rong‐Qian , Lv Yi , Dong Ding‐Hui
Published: May 2019

Background and Objective

Despite the successful application of laser in animal experiments and clinics, the adjustment of laser parameters during surgery is still unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effect of different 980‐nm diode laser parameters in hepatectomy. This could provide a clear protocol for using 980‐nm diode laser in hepatectomy.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

In total, 48 Sprague–Dawley rats were used to explore the effects of different 980‐nm diode laser parameters in hepatectomy, by setting different parameter combinations. The rats were randomly divided into eight groups, including the continuous wave group and quasi‐continuous wave group. The effects were assessed in terms of liver resection speed, extent of intraoperative bleeding, and thermal damage.

Results

In the quasi‐continuous wave group, there was a significant difference in resection speed at the different laser parameters (P < 0.001); however, there was no significant difference in intraoperative bleeding and thermal damage. In the continuous wave group, there was a significant difference in resection speed, intraoperative bleeding, and thermal damage at different parameters.

Conclusion

The study showed that the average power determined hemostasis efficiency and thermal damage, and peak power determined the liver resection speed, whereas the pulse width and repetition frequency are not independent factors. When using 980‐nm diode laser in hepatectomy, the average power should be decreased to prove hemostasis efficiency in delicate operations, and the peak power should be decreased to accelerate the procedure without worsening thermal damage. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Severe Jaw‐Opening Dystonia as an Unusual Manifestation of Levodopa‐Related Wearing‐Off in Parkinson's Disease, and Successful Treatment With Botulinum Toxin Injection
Authors: Agarwal Pankaj Ashok
Published: May 2019

View Supplementary Video 1

View Supplementary Video 2
Voxel‐based quantitative susceptibility mapping in Parkinson's disease with mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Uchida Yuto , Kan Hirohito , Sakurai Keita , Arai Nobuyuki , Kato Daisuke , Kawashima Shoji , Ueki Yoshino , Matsukawa Noriyuki
Published: May 2019

Objective

Brain iron accumulation has been proposed as one of the pathomechanisms in Parkinson's disease (PD). This study aimed to examine the whole‐brain pattern of iron accumulation associated with cognitive impairment in patients with PD using voxel‐based quantitative susceptibility mapping analysis.

Methods

We enrolled 24 patients with PD and mild cognitive impairment, 22 patients with PD and normal cognition, and 20 age‐matched healthy controls in this cross‐sectional study. All participants underwent global cognitive and physical assessments and brain MRI. Using a combined method of voxel‐based morphometry and quantitative susceptibility mapping, we compared the voxel‐wise magnetic susceptibility of the whole brain between the groups and analyzed its correlation with the cognitive and behavioral data.

Results

The PD and mild cognitive impairment group had lower Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) score than the PD and normal cognition and healthy control groups. There were no gray matter volumetric differences between the groups. In contrast, the voxel‐based quantitative susceptibility mapping analysis showed that the PD and mild cognitive impairment group had significantly higher quantitative susceptibility mapping values in the cuneus, precuneus, caudate head, fusiform gyrus, and orbitofrontal cortex than did the PD and normal cognition group. These quantitative susceptibility mapping values were negatively correlated with the MoCA scores in the PD patients (cuneus: r = −0.510, P < .001; caudate head: r = −0.458, P = 0.002).

Conclusions

This study suggests that cognitive impairment in PD is associated with cerebral iron burden and highlights the potential of quantitative susceptibility mapping as an auxiliary biomarker for early evaluation of cognitive decline in patients with PD. © 2019 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Simultaneous iterative methods of asymptotically quasi‐nonexpansive semigroups for split equality common fixed point problem in Banach spaces
Authors: Saelee Sompob , Kumam Poom , Martínez Moreno Juan
Published: May 2019

In this paper, we present iteration methods to find a solution of asymptotically quasi‐nonexpansive semigroups for a split equality common fixed point in Banach spaces. The results show weak and strong convergence theorem of iteration that improve and extend some recent results.
Using femtosecond laser processing quartz glass microchannel sample cell
Authors: Wang Fubin , Liu Mengzhu , Huo Xiaotong , Chen Lei , Chen Jianxiong
Published: May 2019

To improve the intensity and reliability of the emission fluorescence spectrum signal of petroleum pollutant samples, we designed multiple microchannel sample pools to replace traditional sample pool with square section. First, the microchannel structure of the sample pool was designed. Second, we analyzed the pulse intensity distribution and laser ablation volume (LAV) of a femtosecond laser. Then, based on the LAV, we tested the oblique motion of the laser focus at a 45° angle combined with the change in laser power, ablated a specific length region on the quartz glass surface, and indirectly determined the processed depth of the hole inside the quartz glass. Finally, using quartz glasses of 2, 5, and 10 mm in thickness as substrates, we separately varied the processing speed in the x‐direction, feed rate in the y‐direction, and laser output power of the laser processing platform, and obtained the shape‐structure of the microchannel inside the quartz glass under different processing parameter combinations. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method is effective at processing a specific hole depth inside the quartz glass. Experiments show that the sample cell can be used for comparative detection of fluorescence signals.
Integrating local knowledge to prioritise invasive species management
Authors: Caceres‐Escobar Hernan , Kark Salit , Atkinson Scott C. , Possingham Hugh P. , Davis Katrina J.
Published: May 2019

Invasive species management involves complex and multidimensional challenges. There is considerable uncertainty regarding how to identify management strategies that will achieve invasive species control to enhance biodiversity, local economies and human well‐being. Invasive species management on inhabited islands is especially challenging, often due to perceived socio‐political risks and unexpected technical difficulties.

Failing to incorporate local knowledge and local perspectives in the early stages of planning can compromise the ability of decision makers to achieve long‐lasting conservation outcomes. Hence, engaging the community and accounting for stakeholder perceptions are essential for invasive species management, yet, these processes are often overlooked as they can be perceived as too difficult to implement, too costly and/or too slow for management timeframes.

To address this gap, we present an application of invasive species management based on structured decision‐making, and INFFER—a cost‐benefit analysis tool—on Minjerribah‐North Stradbroke Island (Australia). We assessed the cost‐effectiveness of six management scenarios, co‐developed with local land managers and community groups, aimed at preserving the environmental and cultural significance of the island by eradicating European red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) and feral cats (Felis catus). Information was collected in a survey that elicited local stakeholders' perspectives regarding the significance of the Island, their perception of the benefits of the proposed management scenarios, funding requirements, technical feasibility of implementation and socio‐political risk.

We found that low budgets achieve less cost‐effective results than higher budgets. The best strategy focussed on controlling the European red foxes on Minjerribah. However, our results also highlight the need for more research on feral cat management.

This work demonstrates how to use a structured decision support tool, such as INFFER, to assess contesting management strategies. Using appropriate decision support tools is particularly important when stakeholders' perceptions regarding management outcomes are heterogeneous and uncertain.
Cover Image, Volume 68, Issue 6
Authors: Bernardo Victoria , Martin‐de Leon Judith , Rodriguez‐Perez Miguel Angel
Published: May 2019

The cover image is based on the Research Article Anisotropy in nanocellular polymers promoted by the addition of needle‐like sepiolites by Victoria Bernardo et al. DOI: 10.1002/pi.5813.

image
Poly(9‐undecyl‐9‐methyl‐fluorene) and poly(9‐pentadecyl‐9‐methyl‐fluorene): Synthesis, solution structure, and effect of side chain asymmetry on aggregation behavior
Authors: Knaapila Matti , Stewart Beverly , Garamus Vasil M. , Ramos M. Luísa , Cruz Pedro F. , Brito Rui M. M. , Justino Lícinia L. G. , Fausto Rui , Napierala Connor , Forster Michael , Burrows Hugh D. , Scherf Ullrich
Published: May 2019

We report on solution aggregates and backbone conformation of poly(9‐undecyl‐9‐methyl‐fluorene) (PF1‐11) and poly(9‐pentadecyl‐9‐methyl‐fluorene) (PF1‐15), having two different side chains compared with poly(9,9‐dihexylfluorene) (PF6) and poly(9,9‐dioctylfluorene) (PF8) with two identical side chains. In the poor solvent methylcyclohexane (MCH), X‐ray scattering indicates that PF1‐11 and PF1‐15 appear as three‐dimensional aggregates (5–10 nm wide and thick), forming ribbon‐like agglomerates (correlation lengths of 100 nm). PF6 and PF8 appear as two‐dimensional aggregates (>10 nm wide and 2–3 nm thick) involving ribbon‐like agglomerates (correlation lengths much greater than 100 nm). Upon heating, all aggregates undergo a gel–sol transition which occurs at lower temperatures for PF1‐11 and PF1‐15 (<60°C) than for PF6 and PF8 (>80°C). In the good solvent toluene, PF1‐11 and PF1‐15 form networks of cylindrical particles. The mesh size and the cylinder radius are smaller in 24°C toluene (60 nm, 0.5 nm) than in 60°C MCH (300 nm, 1–2 nm). Nuclear magnetic resonance spectra in toluene‐d8 together with density functional theory calculations suggest higher torsion angles between polymer repeat units for PF6, PF8, and PF1‐11 (less planar conformation) and a gauche arrangement of the dihedral angles between the bridge carbon atom and the side chain methylene groups in PF1‐15. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2019, 57, 826–837
Highlights from the 2018 North American cystic fibrosis conference
Authors: Martiniano Stacey L. , Daines Cori L. , Dellon Elisabeth P. , Esther Charles R. , Muhlebach Marianne S. , Ong Thida , Rabinowitz Elliot C. , Toprak Demet , Zemanick Edith T.
Published: May 2019

The 32nd annual North American Cystic Fibrosis Conference was held in Denver, CO on Oct. 18 to 20, 2018. This review highlights presentations in several topic areas, including the pathophysiology and basic science of cystic fibrosis lung disease, clinical trials, clinical care, and quality improvement. Citations from the conference are by first author and abstract or symposium number, as designated in the previously published supplement.
Effects of inspiratory muscle training on respiratory muscle strength, lung function, functional capacity and cardiac autonomic function in Parkinson's disease: Randomized controlled clinical trial protocol
Authors: Montero Ferro Alyne , P. Basso‐Vanelli Renata , Moreira Mello Roberta Lorena , Sanches Garcia‐Araujo Adriana , Gonçalves Mendes Renata , Costa Dirceu , Gianlorenço Anna Carolyna
Published: May 2019

Background

Individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD), in addition to motor impairment, may evolve with respiratory and autonomic nervous system disorders. Currently, there are few studies with emphasis on muscle and pulmonary dysfunction and that verify the benefits of inspiratory muscle training (IMT) in this population.

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether IMT is effective for the improvement of respiratory muscle strength, lung function, thoracic mobility, functional capacity and cardiac autonomic function in PD.

Methods

A randomized and controlled trial will be conducted with 26 participants with idiopathic PD, with aged between 50 and 65 years, in the Stages I to III by the Modified Hoehn and Yahr Scale. Respiratory muscle strength will be performed by manovacuometry and lung function by spirometry. Functional capacity will be evaluated by the 6‐min walk test and autonomic cardiac function by heart rate variability. In addition, thoracic mobility measurement will also be performed. After the evaluations, these participants will be randomly assigned to two groups: the IMT group with Powerbreathe®, which will perform the eight series of 2 min each, with 1 min of rest between them, totaling 30 min, at 60% of the maximum inspiratory pressure and the control group, who will perform the same training protocol but with the load maintained at 9 cmH2O. All participants will be submitted to the same motor training protocol.

Conclusion

It is expected that IMT increases the inspiratory muscle strength, contributing to the improved expiratory muscle strength, lung function, thoracic mobility, functional capacity and cardiac autonomic function in individuals with mild to moderate PD.
Psychometric properties of clock and pelvic drawings in Parkinson's disease: A validity and cross‐sectional study
Authors: Abraham Amit , Wright Gene N. , Morrison Margaret W. , Hart Ariel , Dickstein Ruth , Hackney Madeleine E.
Published: May 2019

Objectives

Parkinson's disease (PD) is characterized by visuospatial and body schema deficits. People with PD often exhibit hypometric movements and graphic hypometria (i.e., small drawing dimensions). The goal of the current study was to explore graphic‐metric representation in people with PD by assessing pelvic and clock drawing dimensions (i.e., height and width) and by investigating associations between pelvic drawing dimensions and participant characteristics.

Methods

Twenty people (16 males, 4 females; M age: 65.75 ± 10.13 years) with idiopathic PD (Hoehn &Yahr Stages I–III) volunteered to participate in this study. Draw Your Pelvis and Clock Drawing tests were used for assessing drawing dimensions, which were then correlated with PD severity, stage and duration, cognitive level, side of symptoms onset, and pelvic schema score. Bivariate and multiple linear regression analyses were also used.

Results

Excellent (.844–.999) interrater reliability was shown for measuring pelvic and clock drawing dimensions. Pelvic drawing dimensions did not significantly (P > .05) differ in magnitude, whereas clock drawing height was significantly (p < .01) greater than width, both suggesting graphic dysmetria (i.e., distorted graphic dimensions). Pelvic drawing width was negatively associated with PD severity and stage, was positively associated with pelvic schema score, and predicted all three parameters.

Conclusion

Measuring pelvic drawing dimensions, and specifically pelvic drawing width, holds potential as an adjunct diagnostic measure in PD assessments and for detecting pelvic schema deficits or misperceptions. This test can be used by physical therapists in the clinic for assessing disease severity, stage, and pelvic schema in people with PD. The knowledge gained from this study contributes to a greater understanding of graphic‐metric representation and associated deficits in people with PD. Future studies should explore the relationship between pelvic drawing dimensions and pelvic mentally imaged estimates, and their role in motor planning, control, and execution in people with PD.
Molecular dynamics simulation of tropomyosin bound to actins/myosin in the closed and open states
Authors: Zheng Wenjun , Wen Han
Published: May 2019

Tropomyosin (Tpm) is a dimeric coiled‐coil protein that binds to filamentous actin, and regulates actin‐myosin interaction by moving between three positions corresponding to the blocked, closed, and open states. To elucidate how Tpm undergoes transitions between these functional states, we have built structural models and conducted extensive molecular dynamics simulations of the Tpm‐actins/myosin complex in the closed and open states (total simulation time >1.4 μs). Based on the simulation trajectories, we have analyzed the dynamics and energetics of a truncated Tpm interacting with actins/myosin under the physiological conditions. Our simulations have shown distinct dynamics of four Tpm periods (P3‐P6), featuring pronounced biased fluctuations of P4 and P5 toward the open position in the closed state, which is consistent with a conformational selection mechanism for Tpm‐regulated myosin binding. Additionally, we have identified key residues of Tpm specifically binding to actins/myosin in the closed and open state. Some of them were validated as functionally important in comparison with past functional/clinical studies, and the rest will make promising targets for future mutational experiments.
Effects of Impurity Doping on Photoluminescence Properties of APbX3 Lead Halide Perovskites
Authors: Yamada Yasuhiro , Hoyano Mizuki , Oto Kenichi , Kanemitsu Yoshihiko
Published: May 2019

The impact of introducing heterovalent Bi3+ impurities in APbX3 [A = CH3NH3, CH(NH2)2; X = I, Br] lead halide perovskite single crystals is investigated by means of photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy. The element analysis reveals that Bi3+ ions are more easily incorporated into CH3NH3PbI3 than into the bromide perovskites CH(NH2)2PbBr3 and CH3NH3PbBr3. The three different halide perovskite single crystals used in this study exhibit a blueshift of the PL spectra at room temperature upon increasing the Bi3+ concentration. This blueshift is attributed to the weaker photon recycling effect that is induced by shorter PL lifetimes. The experiments reveal that the room‐temperature PL spectra of CH(NH2)2PbBr3 and CH3NH3PbI3 are relatively insensitive to impurity doping when compared to the PL spectrum obtained from CH3NH3PbBr3. On the other hand, doping with Bi3+ affects the low‐temperature PL properties of each sample in a different way, that is, its effect depends on the types of ions in the host material. The mechanism responsible for the shift of the PL spectra and the role of Bi3+ in lead halide perovskites are discussed.
Topological and Chiral Spin Hall Effects
Authors: Rozhansky I. V. , Denisov K. S. , Lifshits M. B. , Averkiev N. S. , Lähderanta E.
Published: May 2019

This paper presents a theoretical analysis of the spin Hall effect driven by an asymmetrical electron scattering on chiral spin textures. It is demonstrated that in the adiabatic regime the transverse spin current is proportional to the topological charge of the spin texture and does not depend on its size. With the scattering T‐matrix formalism, the reason is clarified for the spin Hall effect to vanish in the weak coupling regime while conserving the charge Hall effect. Adding a spin‐independent term to the scattering potential restores the spin Hall effect. It is shown that in the weak coupling regime the scattering asymmetry vanishes in a half metallic case due to the suppression of spin‐flip scattering. The existence of spin swapping effect for the exchange scattering on chiral spin textures is also demonstrated.
Giant Voc Boost of Low‐Temperature Annealed Cu(In,Ga)Se2 with Sputtered Zn(O,S) Buffers
Authors: Zutter Marco , Virtuoso Jose , Anacleto Pedro , Yasin Liam , Alves Marina , Madeira Miguel , Bondarchuk Oleksandr , Mitra Saibal , Fuster Signes David , Garcia Jorge M. , Briones Fernando , Waechter Rolf , Kiowski Oliver , Hariskos Dimitrios , Colombara Diego , Sadewasser Sascha
Published: May 2019

Large‐scale industrial fabrication of Cu(In,Ga)Se2 (CIGS) photovoltaic panels would benefit significantly if the buffer layer chemical bath deposition could be replaced by a cadmium‐free dry vacuum process suitable for in‐line production. This Letter reports on the development of a Zn(O,S) buffer layer deposited by vacuum‐based magnetron sputtering from a single target onto commercial CIGS absorbers cut from a module‐size glass/Mo/CIGS stack. The buffer‐window stack consisting of Zn(O0.75S0.25)/i‐ZnO/ZnO:Al is optimized for layer thickness and optical and electronic properties, leading to an average device efficiency of 4.7%, which can be improved by annealing at 200 °C to a maximum of 10.5%, mainly due to a considerable increase in the open‐circuit voltage (Voc). Temperature‐dependent current density versus voltage (J–V) characteristics show a reduced interface recombination upon annealing, explaining the observed Voc boost. Quantum efficiency shows improvements in the long and short wavelength region, setting in at different annealing temperatures, and photoemission depth profiling indicates interdiffusion of all atomic species at the CIGS/Zn(O,S) interface. Electrical device simulations explain the observed effects by a modification of the band offset at the interface and defects passivation. Both effects are attributed to the observed interdiffusion during annealing.
An analysis of the Hines and Warner–McIntyre–Scinocca non‐orographic gravity wave drag parametrizations
Authors: Majdzadeh Mahtab , Klaassen Gary P.
Published: May 2019

A column model based on CIRA wind and temperature profiles is employed to assess the characteristics of the Hines Doppler‐spread and Warner–McIntyre–Scinocca (WMS) non‐orographic drag parametrizations for internal gravity waves. The “Alexander–Dunkerton” variant of the WMS scheme is also briefly considered. This study goes into more detail than previous comparisons by performing a spectral analysis of the momentum deposition and drag, and by examining the ability of each scheme to reproduce a high vertical wavenumber tail consistent with atmospheric measurements. We find several undesirable characteristics in the drag produced by the Hines scheme. For typical midlatitude wind profiles, it produces an abrupt onset of large accelerations that vary strongly from one layer to the next. It is also unable to reproduce spectra consistent with observed wave saturation at high vertical vertical wavenumbers, even for the windless case. The WMS scheme has the ability to reproduce the observed spectral tail for the case of no background wind. In the presence of typical CIRA midlatitude background winds, however, it is demonstrated that the WMS saturation threshold generally does not follow the observed spectral behaviour at high vertical wavenumbers, except for one specific frequency dependence not considered in previous work. Doppler shifting is also found to interfere with the production of high‐wavenumber spectral tails consistent with observations.
In Situ Visualization of Interfacial Sodium Transport and Electrochemistry between Few‐Layer Phosphorene
Authors: Zhu Chongyang , Shao Ruiwen , Chen Shulin , Cai Ran , Wu Yi , Yao Libing , Xia Weiwei , Nie Meng , Sun Litao , Gao Peng , Xin Huolin L. , Xu Feng
Published: May 2019

For rechargeable batteries, ionic transport within the electrode materials is a critical process that controls the rate capability and energy efficiency of the battery. Despite substantial studies, the atomistic observation of the interfacial ionic transport and electrochemical reactions occurring between the solid‐state electrodes is lacking. Here, in situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM) is used to deliberately design an unusual sample configuration, enabling dynamic observation of the sodium ionic transport within a single‐crystal nanostructure and between different few‐layer phosphorene nanosheets. An unhindered and reversible ionic shuttling between few‐layer phosphorene is directly observed in real time. In addition, it is found that sodium transport kinetics are closely related to the interface orientation and the intimate contact between solid electrodes plays a significant role in inhibiting dendrite growth. Furthermore, by fast TEM imaging with ≈40 ms resolution a unique stripe‐like sodium transport behavior is observed in phosphorene, and the multiple sodium ionic transport pathways at the interfaces with atomic spatial resolution are revealed. This work may supply enlightening insights into understanding the solid–solid interfacial electrochemistry between electrode materials.
Kinetically Favorable Vapor–Adsorbate–Solid Growth of Rutile Nanowires
Authors: Xie Dong Yue , Lin Ming‐hui , Zhou Wei , Wang Jian , Zhu Guo‐zhen
Published: May 2019

The vapor‐based synthesis of nanowires, particularly vapor–liquid–solid growth and its variants, is an undoubtedly promising method for fabricating high‐quality silicon‐based and group III–V semiconductors. However, the assembly of oxide nanowires has limited success while adopting these methods. Herein, a simple and scalable approach is developed to synthesize single‐crystal oxide nanowires with controllable morphology. Using titanium oxide as the model system for validation, this approach emphasizes the essential role of the surface characteristic of the seed for the space‐confined growth of nanowires. The shape and growth directions of nanowires can be additionally tailored by using bimetallic seeds, with compositional segregations and dissimilar surface characteristics. Since the source material has the same thermodynamic conditions as the produced nanowires within a closed vessel, the results suggest that the growth of nanowires can be dominated by the kinetic enrichment at seed surfaces or referred to as kinetically favorable vapor–adsorbate–solid growth. While identifying the key thermodynamic and kinetic parameters during growth, this approach is applicable for a wide range of materials.
Lab‐Scale In Situ X‐Ray Diffraction Technique for Different Battery Systems: Designs, Applications, and Perspectives
Authors: Xia Maoting , Liu Tingting , Peng Na , Zheng Runtian , Cheng Xing , Zhu Haojie , Yu Haoxiang , Shui Miao , Shu Jie
Published: May 2019

In order to meet the growing demands of electric vehicles and portable devices, the electrochemical performance of rechargeable batteries is required to be further optimized. Above all, it is of vital importance to understand the reaction mechanism of batteries under working states, which requires a direct observation of the complicated reaction process. Thus, in situ X‐ray diffraction (XRD) techniques have been employed in the charge and discharge process to realize real‐time monitoring and provide on‐site information of structural evolutions and phase transitions within electrode materials. In this review, a detailed summary of lab‐scale in situ X‐ray diffraction techniques is given and compared with in situ synchrotron XRD at the same time. First, four typical in situ reaction mechanisms are presented and their distinctive characteristics are introduced in detail. Second, the practical applications of in situ X‐ray diffraction in different battery systems are described with examples after extensive collections. In addition, the design of in situ cells and some noteworthy experimental details in actual testing are also mentioned. Finally, the further development direction of in situ X‐ray diffraction techniques is well prospected.
Multifunctional Nickel Film Protected n‐Type Silicon Photoanode with High Photovoltage for Efficient and Stable Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Luo Zhibin , Liu Bin , Li Huimin , Chang Xiaoxia , Zhu Wenjin , Wang Tuo , Gong Jinlong
Published: May 2019

n‐type silicon (n‐Si) is a promising photoanode candidate for photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting. However, severe chemical corrosion, sluggish reaction kinetics as well as extremely low photovoltage are critical limitations hampering its PEC performance. This paper describes the introduction of a metallic nickel (Ni) thin film as a multifunctional layer that 1) forms a Schottky junction to extract a high photovoltage, 2) provides an electrocatalytic surface for oxygen evolution reaction (OER), and 3) protects Si against corrosion. Upon introducing a high‐quality Al2O3 tunneling layer to optimize the Si/Ni interface and loading nickel oxide hydroxide to further accelerate the OER, this metal–insulator–semiconductor junction photoanode achieves a record high photovoltage of 640 mV and energy conversion efficiency of 3% in n‐Si based photoanodes without np or np+ buried homojunction, yielding an air mass 1.5G photocurrent density of ≈28 mA cm−2 at 1.23 V (vs reversible hydrogen electrode) for oxygen evolution in alkaline solution with a stability of more than 80 h.
Vacuum Filtration‐and‐Transfer Technique Helps Electrochemical Quartz Crystal Microbalance to Reveal Accurate Charge Storage in Supercapacitors
Authors: Zhang Qingnuan , Levi Mikhael D. , Chai Yinguang , Zhang Xu , Xiao Dewei , Dou Qingyun , Ma Pengjun , Ji Hengxing , Yan Xingbin
Published: May 2019

Electrochemical quartz crystal microbalance (EQCM) can be used to study the charge storage mechanisms of supercapacitors because of its excellent accuracy in mass change, and a homogeneous and ultrathin sample coating is strongly required for accurate measurement. However, it is difficult to obtain such a coating by the frequently used methods. Here a vacuum filtration‐and‐transfer (VFT) technique is reported to achieve this target. To prove the universality of this method, six materials with different dimensions are selected as research objects, and they are prepared into test films on quartz by VFT method and well‐used spray method for EQCM measurements, respectively. The results show that the VFT method can eliminate the influence caused by inhomogeneity of the films, which is beneficial for clearly distinguishing the rigid model from the viscoelastic model. This method helps EQCM to reflect more precise quality change as well as deformation of the material itself. Consequently, it makes EQCM more reliable to describe the energy storage mechanisms of various electrode materials.
Educating sonographers in attributes of “breaking bad news” to foster positive emotional well‐being
Authors: Maranna Sandhya
Published: May 2019

Although physicians have the primary role of communicating bad news to patients, emergency care personnel, nurses, midwives, and sonographers encounter this situation increasingly in their routine work. There is an inherent expectation that delivering bad news is intuitive and can be developed with experience. Contrary to the belief, there is mounting evidence to suggest that difficult communication is a complex skill, which can be taught. Insufficient or no training is a significant barrier in effective communication and can lead to burnout. The study aimed to identify common barriers of breaking bad news and to determine attributes to overcome them, in allied health, nursing, and sonography literature. A narrative literature review was undertaken. Keywords search of MEDLINE database and manual keyword search of articles published in English was performed. Review methods were data extraction and comparative analysis of 12 published articles. Descriptive analysis of 12 articles revealed three themes of interest: (1) impact of breaking bad news on staff, (2) perceived difficulties/barriers for breaking bad news, and (3) developing attributes that help in communicating bad news. Articles analysed suggest that communicating bad news is a complex skill and indicates an adequate training to empower the informer and to offer better patient care.
Combined photocatalytic and biological process for textile wastewater treatments
Authors: da Silva Leandro S. , Gonçalves Márcia M. Machado , Raddi de Araujo Lucia R.
Published: May 2019

Azo dyes, common in textile wastewater, have high photolytic and chemical stabilities, which make them difficult to be removed using conventional treatments. This study aims to evaluate a combined process using heterogeneous photocatalysis, with ZnO/UV or TiO2/UV (0.6 g catalyst L−1 solution/2‐hr UV radiation), and a biological process for textile wastewater treatment. After the proposed treatments, the color and organic matter removals from synthetic wastewater (SW) and industrial wastewater (IW) were evaluated. For SW, the coupled photocatalytic (ZnO/UV or TiO2/UV)–biological system promoted a high extent of color removal (98%) and total organic carbon (TOC) reduction (>80%). Promising results were obtained with IW using combined photocatalytic (TiO2/UV)–biological treatments, reaching 97% and 63% of color and TOC removal, respectively. This process, coupling heterogeneous photocatalysis and a bioprocess, has proved to be a good alternative for the treatment of textile wastewater, not only for color removal but also for dye mineralization purposes.

Practitioner points

A combined process using heterogeneous photocatalysis (ZnO/UV or TiO2/UV) and biological process was evaluated for synthetic (SW) and industrial (IW) textile wastewaters treatment.

For SW, coupled process promoted high extent of colour and organic matter removals.

For IW, promising results were obtained with TiO2/UV‐biological treatment (97% of colour and 63% of organic matter removals).