bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Amphibian responses to livestock use of wetlands: new empirical data and a global review
Authors: Howell Hunter J. , Mothes Caitlin C. , Clements Stephanie L. , Catania Shantel V. , Rothermel Betsie B. , Searcy Christopher A.
Published: July 2019

Pastureland currently occupies 26% of Earth's ice‐free land surface. As the global human population continues to increase and developing countries consume more protein‐rich diets, the amount of land devoted to livestock grazing will only continue to rise. To mitigate the loss of global biodiversity as a consequence of the ever‐expanding amount of land converted from native habitat into pastureland for livestock grazing, an understanding of how livestock impact wildlife is critical. While previous reviews have examined the impact of livestock on a wide variety of taxa, there have been no reviews examining how global livestock grazing affects amphibians. We conducted both an empirical study in south‐central Florida examining the impact of cattle on amphibian communities and a quantitative literature review of similar studies on five continents. Our empirical study analyzed amphibian community responses to cattle as both a binary (presence/absence) variable, and as a continuous variable based on cow pie density. Across all analyses, we were unable to find any evidence that cattle affected the amphibian community at our study site. The literature review returned 46 papers that met our criteria for inclusion. Of these studies, 15 found positive effects of livestock on amphibians, 21 found neutral/mixed effects, and 10 found negative effects. Our quantitative analysis of these data indicates that amphibian species that historically occurred in closed‐canopy habitats are generally negatively affected by livestock presence. In contrast, open‐canopy amphibians are likely to experience positive effects from the presence of livestock, and these positive effects are most likely to occur in locations with cooler climates and/or greater precipitation seasonality. Collectively, our empirical work and literature review demonstrate that under the correct conditions well‐managed rangelands are able to support diverse assemblages of amphibians. These rangeland ecosystems may play a critical role in protecting future amphibian biodiversity by serving as an “off‐reserve” system to supplement the biodiversity conserved within traditional protected areas.
The prevalence and correlates of eating disorders in adult emergency department patients
Authors: Dooley‐Hash Suzanne , Adams Mackenzie , Walton Maureen A. , Blow Frederic C. , Cunningham Rebecca M.
Published: July 2019

Objective

This study describes the prevalence of eating disorders among adult patients who present to the emergency department for medical care and examines the relationship between eating disorders, depression, and substance use disorders.

Method

Emergency department patients aged 21–65 years (n = 1,795) completed a computerized questionnaire that included validated screening tools for eating disorders, risky drinking behavior, other substance use, and depression. Analyses were conducted comparing individuals who screened positive for an eating disorder with those who did not based on demographics (gender, age, race, income, education), body mass index (BMI), risky drinking behavior, other substance use, and depression.

Results

Nearly 16% (15.9%) of all patients screened positive for an eating disorder regardless of their reason for presenting to the emergency department. Patients who screened positive for an eating disorder were significantly more likely to have a BMI > 30 (odds ratio [OR] = 2.68, confidence interval [CI] = 1.98, 3.62, p < .001), to also screen positive for depression (OR = 3.19, CI = 2.28, 4.47, p < .001) and to be female (OR = 2.37, CI = 1.76, 3.19, p < .001). No differences in the prevalence of positive screens for eating disorders were seen across age or racial groups, level of education or income, or for any of the included substance use variables.

Discussion

Eating disorders are common among adult emergency department patients and are associated with high rates of comorbid depression and higher BMI. Given the significant morbidity and mortality associated with eating disorders, targeted screening may be warranted in the emergency department setting.
Plants alter their vertical root distribution rather than biomass allocation in response to changing precipitation
Authors: Zhang Bingwei , Cadotte Marc W. , Chen Shiping , Tan Xingru , You Cuihai , Ren Tingting , Chen Minling , Wang Shanshan , Li Weijing , Chu Chengjin , Jiang Lin , Bai Yongfei , Huang Jianhui , Han Xingguo
Published: July 2019

Elucidating the variation of allocation pattern of ecosystem net primary productivity (NPP) and its underlying mechanisms is critically important for understanding the changes of aboveground and belowground ecosystem functions. Under optimal partitioning theory, plants should allocate more NPP to the organ that acquires the most limiting resource, and this expectation has been widely used to explain and predict NPP allocation under changing precipitation. However, confirmatory evidence for this theory has mostly come from observed spatial variation in the relationship between precipitation and NPP allocation across ecosystems, rather than directly from the influences of changing precipitation on NPP allocation within systems. We performed a 6‐yr five‐level precipitation manipulation experiment in a semiarid steppe to test whether changes in NPP allocation can be explained by the optimal partitioning theory, and how water requirement of plant community is maintained if NPP allocation is unaltered. The 30 precipitation levels (5 levels × 6 yr) were divided into dry, nominal, and wet precipitation ranges, relative to historical precipitation variation over the past six decades. We found that NPP in both aboveground (ANPP) and belowground (BNPP) increased nonlinearly as precipitation increased, while the allocation of NPP to BNPP (fBNPP) showed a concave quadratic relationship with precipitation. The declined fBNPP as precipitation increased in the dry range supported the optimal partitioning theory. However, in the nominal range, NPP allocation was not influenced by the changed precipitation; instead, BNPP was distributed more in the surface soil horizon (0–10 cm) as precipitation increased, and conversely more in the deeper soil layers (10–30 cm) as precipitation decreased. This response in root foraging appears to be a strategy to satisfy plant water requirements and partially explains the stable NPP allocation patterns. Overall, our results suggest that plants can adjust their vertical BNPP distribution in response to drought stress, and that only under extreme drought does the optimal partitioning theory strictly apply, highlighting the context dependency of the adaption and growth of plants under changing precipitation.
Unprecedented herbivory threatens rear‐edge populations of Betula in southwestern Eurasia
Authors: Morales‐Molino César , Tinner Willy , Perea Ramón , Carrión José S. , Colombaroli Daniele , Valbuena‐Carabaña María , Zafra Elena , Gil Luis
Published: July 2019

Mediterranean rear‐edge populations of Betula, located at the southwestern Eurasian margin of the distribution range, represent unique reservoirs of genetic diversity. However, increasing densities of wild ungulates, enhanced dryness, and wildfires threaten their future persistence. A historical perspective on the past responses of these relict populations to changing herbivory, fire occurrence and climatic conditions may contribute to assessing their future responses under comparable scenarios. We have reconstructed vegetation and disturbance (grazing, fire) history in the Cabañeros National Park (central‐southern Spain) using the paleoecological records of two small mires. We particularly focused on the historical range of variation in disturbance regimes, and the dynamics of rear‐edge Betula populations and herbivore densities. Changes in water availability, probably related to the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) index, and land‐use history have played a crucial role in vegetation shifts. Our data suggest that heathlands (mainly Erica arborea and E. scoparia) and Quercus woodlands dominated during dry phases while Sphagnum bogs and Betula stands expanded during wet periods. Betula populations survived past moderately dry periods but were unable to cope with enhanced land use, particularly increasing livestock raising since ~1,100–900 cal. yr BP (850–1,050 CE), and eventually underwent local extinction. High herbivore densities not only contributed to the Betula demise but also caused the retreat of Sphagnum bogs. Ungulate densities further rose at ~200–100 cal. yr BP (1750–1850 CE) associated with the historically documented intensification of land use around the Ecclesiastical Confiscation. However, herbivory reached truly unprecedented values only during the last decades, following rural depopulation and subsequent promotion of big game hunting. For the first time in temperate and Mediterranean Europe, we have used the abundances of fossil dung fungal spores to assess quantitatively that current high herbivore densities exceed the historical range of variation. In contrast, present fire activity lies within the range of variation of the last millennia, with fires (mainly human‐set) mostly occurring during dry periods. Our paleodata highlight the need of controlling the densities of wild ungulates to preserve ecosystem composition and functioning. We also urge to restore Betula populations in suitable habitats where they mostly disappeared because of excessive human activities.
Assessing the role of extracellular signal‐regulated kinases 1 and 2 in volume overload‐induced cardiac remodelling
Authors: Jochmann Svenja , Elkenani Manar , Mohamed Belal A. , Buchholz Eric , Lbik Dawid , Binder Lutz , Lorenz Kristina , Shah Ajay M. , Hasenfuß Gerd , Toischer Karl , Schnelle Moritz
Published: July 2019

Aims

Volume overload (VO) and pressure overload (PO) induce differential cardiac remodelling responses including distinct signalling pathways. Extracellular signal‐regulated kinases 1 and 2 (ERK1/2), key signalling components in the mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways, modulate cardiac remodelling during pressure overload (PO). This study aimed to assess their role in VO‐induced cardiac remodelling as this was unknown.

Methods and results

Aortocaval fistula (Shunt) surgery was performed in mice to induce cardiac VO. Two weeks of Shunt caused a significant reduction of cardiac ERK1/2 activation in wild type (WT) mice as indicated by decreased phosphorylation of the TEY (Thr‐Glu‐Tyr) motif (−28% as compared with Sham controls, P < 0.05). Phosphorylation of other MAPKs was unaffected. For further assessment, transgenic mice with cardiomyocyte‐specific ERK2 overexpression (ERK2tg) were studied. At baseline, cardiac ERK1/2 phosphorylation in ERK2tg mice remained unchanged compared with WT littermates, and no overt cardiac phenotype was observed; however, cardiac expression of the atrial natriuretic peptide was increased on messenger RNA (3.6‐fold, P < 0.05) and protein level (3.1‐fold, P < 0.05). Following Shunt, left ventricular dilation and hypertrophy were similar in ERK2tg mice and WT littermates. Left ventricular function was maintained, and changes in gene expression indicated reactivation of the foetal gene program in both genotypes. No differences in cardiac fibrosis and kinase activation was found amongst all experimental groups, whereas apoptosis was similarly increased through Shunt in ERK2tg and WT mice.

Conclusions

VO‐induced eccentric hypertrophy is associated with reduced cardiac ERK1/2 activation in vivo. Cardiomyocyte‐specific overexpression of ERK2, however, does not alter cardiac remodelling during VO. Future studies need to define the pathophysiological relevance of decreased ERK1/2 signalling during VO.
The Setup of the National Reference Centre for Authentic Food (NRZ‐Authent) in Germany
Authors: Kulling Sabine , Bunzel Diana , Frommherz Lara , Molkentin Joachim , Lehmann Iris , Engert Stefan , Steinberg Pablo
Published: July 2019

The present report addresses the challenges in the fight against food fraud, discusses the definition of food fraud as a legal concept, the point in time at which policy makers in Europe became aware of food fraud, i.e., the horsemeat scandal in 2013, and the policy responses of the EU as well as Germany to that scandal. Moreover, the establishment, structure, and objectives of the recently established National Reference Centre for Authentic Food (NRZ‐Authent) in Germany are described.

Practical Applications: The suggested structure of the German National Centre for Authentic Food (NRZ‐Authent) can be used as a blueprint when wanting to build up European Union centers for the authenticity and integrity of the agri‐food chain in the member states.

Locations of the Max Rubner‐Institut across Germany and focus of food authenticity research at the different locations. The National Reference Centre for Authentic Food (NRZ‐Authent) headquarters are located in the city of Kulmbach.
Chitosan‐templated bio‐coloration of cotton fabrics via laccase‐catalyzed polymerization of hydroquinone
Authors: Bai Rubing , Yu Yuanyuan , Wang Qiang , Shen Jinsong , Yuan Jiugang , Fan Xuerong
Published: July 2019

There is an increasing interest in the development of enzymatic coloration of textile fabrics as an alternative to conventional textile dyeing processes, which is successful for dyeing protein fibers. However, unmodified cotton fabrics are difficult to be dyed through enzyme catalysis due to the lack of affinity of biosynthesized dyes to cotton fibers. In order to improve the enzyme‐catalyzed dyeability of cotton fibers, chitosan was used to coat cotton fabrics as template. A novel and facile bio‐coloration technique using laccase catalysis of hydroquinone was developed to dye chitosan‐templated cotton fabrics. The polymerization of hydroquinone with the template of chitosan under the laccase catalysis was monitored by ultraviolet‐vis spectrophotometer on the absorbance of reaction solution. A significant peak of UV‐vis spectrum at 246 nm corresponding to large conjugated structures appeared and increased with increasing the duration of enzymatic catalysis. The effect of different treatment conditions on the laccase‐catalyzed dyeing of cotton fabric was investigated to determine their optimal parameters of laccase‐catalyzed coloration. Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy spectra demonstrated the formation of H‐bond and Schiff base reaction between chitosan and polymerized hydroquinone. Scanning electron microscopy indicated that the surface of dyed cotton fiber was much rougher than that of the control sample. Moreover, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy also revealed the existence of the chitosan/polymerized hydroquinone complex and polymerized hydroquinone on the dyed cotton fibers. This chitosan‐templated approach offers possibility for biological dyeing coloration of cotton fabrics and other cellulosic materials.
Vulnerability of multiple large‐scale brain networks in dementia with Lewy bodies
Authors: Sala Arianna , Caminiti Silvia Paola , Iaccarino Leonardo , Beretta Luca , Iannaccone Sandro , Magnani Giuseppe , Padovani Alessandro , Ferini‐Strambi Luigi , Perani Daniela
Published: July 2019

Aberrations of large‐scale brain networks are found in the majority of neurodegenerative disorders. The brain connectivity alterations underlying dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) remain, however, still elusive, with contrasting results possibly due to the pathological and clinical heterogeneity characterizing this disorder. Here, we provide a molecular assessment of brain network alterations, based on cerebral metabolic measurements as proxies of synaptic activity and density, in a large cohort of DLB patients (N = 72). We applied a seed‐based interregional correlation analysis approach (p < .01, false discovery rate corrected) to evaluate large‐scale resting‐state networks' integrity and their interactions. We found both local and long‐distance metabolic connectivity alterations, affecting the posterior cortical networks, that is, primary visual and the posterior default mode network, as well as the limbic and attention networks, suggesting a widespread derangement of the brain connectome. Notably, patients with the lowest visual and attention cognitive scores showed the most severe connectivity derangement in regions of the primary visual network. In addition, network‐level alterations were differentially associated with the core clinical manifestations, namely, hallucinations with more severe metabolic dysfunction of the attention and visual networks, and rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder with alterations of connectivity of attention and subcortical networks. These multiple network‐level vulnerabilities may modulate the core clinical and cognitive features of DLB and suggest that DLB should be considered as a complex multinetwork disorder.
Digitization of local revenue collection in Ghana: An evaluation of Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA)
Authors: Adu Edmund Poku , Buabeng Thomas , Asamoah Kwame , Damoah Clement Mensah
Published: July 2019

Government institutions in Ghana have initiated the use of information technologies to accomplish their objectives. Among these institutions is the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA), the local government institution that introduced the use of point of sale devices in the collection of rates in 2012. The purpose of the study was to evaluate this digital mode of rate collection at the AMA through the lenses of the concept of e‐government failure (Heeks, 2003) and the rational choice theory. Guided by the pragmatic paradigm of social research, a mixed method approach was adopted. Data consisted of recorded interviews with officials of AMA, as well as Annual Reports and Annual Composite Budgets from 2011 to 2017. It was found that the intervention was a partial failure because of its inability to block avenues for bribery and its inability to induce a significant rise in rate figures. However, the intervention had improved transparency and accountability in rate collection activities at AMA. The study also offers some recommendations for improving the effectiveness of similar interventions.
Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) of the Cesarean‐Scarred Uterus in vivo at 3T: Comparison Study of DTI Parameters Between Nonpregnant and Pregnant Cases
Authors: Zhang Wenting , Chen Juan
Published: July 2019

Background

Fiber architecture of the human uterus can be depicted in vivo using 3T MR‐DTI (diffusion tensor imaging).

Purpose

To investigate the differences in fibrous structure and DTI‐related parameters between nonpregnant and pregnant cases in vivo.

Study Type

Prospective case–control study.

Subjects

Thirty‐one subjects were divided into two groups; 18 nonpregnant volunteers with previous cesarean deliveries (Group 1) and 13 patients in early pregnancy also with previous cesarean section (Group 2).

Field Strength/Sequence

3T Ssh‐EPI (single‐shot echo planar imaging) fast sequence with b values of 0 and 600 s/mm2 along 30 directions.

Assessment

Fiber density, fiber length, apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) value, and the fractional anisotropy (FA) value measured in the mid‐sagittal plane of the uterus were obtained from the outer myometrium (OM), junctional zone (JZ), and the cesarean section scar (CSS). Fiber architecture in vivo was depicted by 3D diffusion tensor tractography (DTT).

Statistical Tests

A t‐test of independent sample or Wilcoxon rank sum test were used for comparison.

Results

Pregnant scarred‐uterus (Group 2) showed a decrease in fiber density, FA value, and an increase in fiber length, ADC value than the nonpregnant scarred‐uterus (Group 1) on OM, JZ, and CSS. Among the above parameters between the two groups, for OM, significant differences were found in fiber density (P < 0.001), length (P = 0.0306), and ADC (P = 0.0039). For JZ, significant differences were found in fiber density (P = 0.0093), FA (P = 0.0002), and ADC (P < 0.001). The scar's fiber density (P = 0.0794), length (P = 0.6167), FA (P = 0.6305), and ADC value (P = 0.1865) showed no statistically significant difference during early pregnancy.

Data Conclusion

Our results indicate considerable diffusional changes in uterine fiber architecture during pregnancy. The microenvironment of scar tissue appears to change little during early pregnancy.

Level of Evidence: 2

Technical Efficacy Stage: 2 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;51:124–130.
Effect of heteroatom doping on the hydrogenation of volleyballene
Authors: Salas‐Zepeda M.G. , Tlahuice‐Flores Alfredo
Published: July 2019

In this study, the heteroatom doping of volleyballene with N and P atoms and the hydrogenation of their related structures is addressed, with an emphasis on the displayed bonding, adsorption energies, and vibrational properties. It is determined that the doping with 12 phosphorus atoms ([Sc20C48P12]‐1] produces a tetrahedral‐like (T point group) structure. Conversely, the presence of 12 nitrogen atoms results in a structure (C2H‐Sc20C48N12) maintaining the parent volleyballene framework. The N‐doping structure displays a calculated hydrogen adsorption energy of ‐0.20 eV/H (Sc20C48N12H24), and it increases to ‐0.50 eV/H in the case of the structure doped with P atoms ([Sc20C48P12H36]‐1). The predicted four new structures are attested as true minima by their IR and Raman spectra. Finally, the assignment of their IR/Raman signals is carried out in order to facilitate their experimental detection.
Molecular mechanisms involved in postharvest chilling tolerance of pomegranate fruit
Authors: Kashash Yael , Holland Doron , Porat Ron
Published: July 2019

Cold storage of pomegranates is essential for prolonging postharvest storage and for the implementation of cold‐quarantine insect disinfestation treatments required for international trading. However, pomegranates are chilling sensitive; they may develop chilling injuries upon exposure to unfavorable low temperatures. In this mini‐review, we summarize molecular data obtained from three different RNA Seq transcriptome analyses of responses of pomegranate fruits to cold storage. These experiments included comparisons among the transcriptomic responses following a 2‐week exposure to 1 °C in three different model systems: 1) unconditioned chilling‐sensitive fruits versus relatively chilling‐tolerant low‐temperature‐conditioned fruits; 2) chilling‐sensitive early harvested fruits versus relatively chilling‐tolerant late‐harvested ones; and 3) chilling‐sensitive ‘Ganesh’ variety versus the relatively chilling‐tolerant ‘Wonderful’ variety. Comparisons among differentially expressed transcripts that were exclusively and significantly up‐regulated in the relatively chilling‐tolerant fruits in all three model systems enabled identification of 573 common chilling tolerance‐associated genes in pomegranates. Functional categorization and classification of the differentially expressed transcripts revealed several regulatory, metabolic, and stress‐adaptation pathways that were uniquely activated in response to cold storage in relatively chilling‐tolerant fruits. More specifically, we identified common up‐regulation of transcripts involved in activation of jasmonic acid and ethylene hormone biosynthesis and signaling, stress‐related transcription factors, calcium and MAPK signaling, starch degradation and galactinol and raffinose biosynthesis, phenol biosynthesis, lipid metabolism, and heat‐shock proteins. We hypothesized these pathways to be involved in imparting chilling tolerance to pomegranate fruits. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Mediterranean sofrito home‐cooking technique enhances polyphenol content in tomato sauce
Authors: Rinaldi de Alvarenga José Fernando , Quifer‐Rada Paola , Westrin Victoria , Hurtado‐Barroso Sara , Torrado‐Prat Xavier , Lamuela‐Raventós Rosa M
Published: July 2019

BACKGROUND

Sofrito, a basic culinary technique widely used in the Mediterranean, may preserve dietary polyphenols and enhance their intake in the Mediterranean population. The aim of this study was to investigate if the sofrito technique improves the polyphenol extractability in a tomato‐based sofrito sauce.

RESULTS

A full factorial design was applied using mathematical models. The content of chlorogenic acid, ferulic acid hexoside and naringenin was higher in the sofrito sauce than in raw tomato. The bioaccessibility of some tomato polyphenols was enhanced by the presence of olive oil and they were protected from oxidation during the cooking process by the use of onion.

CONCLUSION

The use of olive oil and onion in Mediterranean cooking as a base for sauces and dishes, with an appropriate cooking time, preserve the polyphenol content of food. Thus, Mediterranean cuisine may contribute to the health effects of the Mediterranean diet. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Compatibilization of biocomposites based on sponge‐gourd natural fiber reinforced poly(lactic acid)
Authors: Rahem Zahir , Mayouf Imane , Guessoum Melia , Delaite Christelle , Douibi Abdelmalek , Lallam Abdelaziz
Published: July 2019

To prepare fully biodegradable materials, variable concentrations of luffa fiber (LF) namely 1, 3, and 5 phr, were incorporated into a poly(lactic acid) (PLA) matrix. To counteract the poor adhesion of the LF to PLA, a compatibilizer which is maleic anhydride‐grafted poly(lactic acid) has been incorporated and the properties of the composites with and without compatibilizer noted, respectively, PLA/LF and PLA/PLA‐g‐maleic anhydride (MA)/LF, were compared. The final torque of PLA/LF was found to decrease with the LF content contrary to that of PLA/PLA‐g‐MA/LF composite which was seen to increase as a result of the interfacial reaction occurring between maleic anhydride groups of the compatibilizer and the hydroxyls of LF. This outcome has been evidenced from the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy which pointed out the disappearance of the vibration band owing to the anhydride groups of the compatibilizer from the spectra of the PLA/PLA‐g‐MA/LF composite and the better impregnation of LF by the matrix as it has been observed from scanning electron microscopy. Subsequently, the Izod impact strength of the compatibilized composites was seen to increase, especially for 1 phr of LF, whereas the water uptake aptitude was considerably reduced. Also, PLA phase into the composites exhibited lower thermal stability and glass transition temperature compared to pristine PLA.
Charge delocalization mode and change in aromaticity of protonated 7‐phenylbenzo[k]fluoranthenes studied by experimental observation and DFT calculations
Authors: Okazaki Takao , Matsunaga Takuya , Kitagawa Toshikazu
Published: July 2019

7‐Phenylbenzo[k]fluoranthene (4), which is one of non‐alternant polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, was protonated at the C(12) position in neat CF3SO3H to give a persistent carbocation (4aH+). The cation was successfully observed by NMR measurements at rt. The most deshielded protons were observed as doublet signals at 8.92 and 8.71 ppm for H(1) and H(3). The most deshielded 13C signals appeared at 184.4 and 176.6 ppm for C(12a) and C(7). The positive charge was found to be delocalized to four carbons in a 1‐naphthalenium unit and to two other carbons according to Δδ13C from 4 to 4aH+. DFT calculations indicated that 4aH+ was the most stable among possible protonation carbocations. The NICS(1)zz values of 4aH+ suggested that the five‐membered π‐ring is nonaromatic and that the other benzenoid rings are aromatic. The influence of the 7‐phenyl group on aromaticity and on positive charge delocalization was limited. The next most stable cations were computed to be cations (4bH+ and 4cH+) that were generated by the protonation at the C(3) and C(4) positions, respectively. Their Gibbs energies were similar within 0.7 kcal/mol to that of 4aH+. Their five‐membered π‐rings were proved to be anti‐aromatic according to the NICS(1)zz criteria. 4bH+ and 4cH+ can be depicted by canonical structures with a cyclopentadienyl cation unit, which is suggested to be responsible for their anti‐aromaticity.
The sodium pump and digitalis drugs: Dogmas and fallacies
Authors: Askari Amir
Published: July 2019

The sodium pump (Na/K‐ATPase) is a plasma membrane enzyme that transports Na+ and K+ against their physiological gradients in most eukaryotic cells. Besides pumping ions, the enzyme may also interact with neighboring proteins to activate cell signaling pathways that regulate cell growth. Digitalis drugs, useful for the treatment of heart failure and atrial arrhythmias, inhibit the pumping function of Na/K‐ATPase and stimulate its signaling function. In the current field of research on the sodium pump and digitalis drugs, some issues that are commonly accepted to be well established are not so, and this may impede progress. Here, several such issues are identified, their histories are discussed, and their open discussions are urged. The covered unsettled questions consist of (a) the suggested hormonal role of endogenous digitalis compounds; (b) the specificity of Na/K‐ATPase as the receptor for digitalis compounds; (c) the relevance of the positive inotropic action of digitalis to its use for the treatment of heart failure; (d) the conflicting findings on digitalis–induced signaling function of Na/K‐ATPase; and (e) the uncertainties about the structure of Na/K‐ATPase in the native cell membrane.
Squares of Hamiltonian cycles in 3‐uniform hypergraphs
Authors: Bedenknecht Wiebke , Reiher Christian
Published: July 2019

We show that every 3‐uniform hypergraph H = (V,E) with |V(H)| = n and minimum pair degree at least (4/5 + o(1))n contains a squared Hamiltonian cycle. This may be regarded as a first step towards a hypergraph version of the Pósa‐Seymour conjecture.
A Time‐Programmed Release of Dual Drugs from an Implantable Trilayer Structured Fiber Device for Synergistic Treatment of Breast Cancer
Authors: Li Xilin , He Yang , Hou Jianwen , Yang Guang , Zhou Shaobing
Published: July 2019

Combination chemotherapy with time‐programmed administration of multiple drugs is a promising method for cancer treatment. However, realizing time‐programmed release of combined drugs from a single carrier is still a great challenge in enhanced cancer therapy. Here, an implantable trilayer structured fiber device is developed to achieve time‐programmed release of combined drugs for synergistic treatment of breast cancer. The fiber device is prepared by a modified microfluidic‐electrospinning technique. The glycerol solution containing chemotherapy agent doxorubicin (Dox) forms the internal periodic cavities of the fiber, and poly(l‐lactic acid) and poly(ε‐caprolactone) containing the angiogenesis inhibitor apatinib (Apa) form the double walls of the fiber. Rapid release of Dox can be obtained by adjusting the wall thickness of the cavities, meanwhile sustained release of Apa is achieved through the slow degradation of the fiber matrix. After the fiber device is implanted subcutaneously near to the implanted solid tumor of mice, an excellent synergistic therapeutic effect is achieved through time‐programmed release of the combined dual drugs. The fiber device provides a platform to sequentially co‐deliver dual or multiple drugs for enhanced combined therapeutic efficacy.
Splenic artery aneurysm rupture in the pregnant patient: The importance of utilising ultrasound to differentiate the acute abdomen from obstetric causes of abdominal pain
Authors: Napier Donna
Published: July 2019

Although splenic artery aneurysm (SAA) rupture in the pregnant patient is considered a rare occurrence, its consequences can be catastrophic for both mother and fetus. The mortality rate from this entity in pregnancy is disproportionately high when compared with that of the general population, with multiparity thought to be a contributing factor. Potential reasons for this may be explained by its non‐specific abdominal symptoms often misdiagnosed as common obstetric differentials, combined with a rapid deterioration of patient condition post rupture. For these reasons, SAA rupture should have a high index of suspicion when a pregnant women presents with an acute abdomen, as a favourable outcome is dependent on prompt diagnosis and appropriate medical intervention. This article reviews the incidence of SAA rupture in pregnancy, outlines the pathophysiological processes that contribute to this entity being more prevalent in the gravid population, and displays the pivotal role ultrasound can play in expediting this diagnosis. In the emergency situation, ultrasound examination of a pregnant patient should be extended from a focussed pelvic study to encompass the entire abdominal cavity. Its portability combined with its nonionising nature makes ultrasound the modality of choice to reduce the time to diagnosis and thus influence treatment pathways.
Straddling the crevasse: A review of microservice software architecture foundations and recent advancements
Authors: Joseph Christina Terese , Chandrasekaran K.
Published: July 2019

Microservice architecture style has been gaining wide impetus in the software engineering industry. Researchers and practitioners have adopted the microservices concepts into several application domains such as the internet of things, cloud computing, service computing, and healthcare. Applications developed in alignment with the microservices principles require an underlying platform with management capabilities to coordinate the different microservice units and ensure that the application functionalities are delivered to the user. A multitude of approaches has been proposed for the various tasks in microservices‐based systems. However, since the field is relatively young, there is a need to organize the different research works. In this study, we present a comprehensive review of the research approaches directed toward microservice architectures and propose a multilevel taxonomy to categorize the existing research. The study also discusses the different distributed computing paradigms employing microservices and identifies the open research challenges in the domain.
Tcf7l1 Acts as a Suppressor for the Self-Renewal of Liver Cancer Stem Cells and Is Regulated by IGF/MEK/ERK Signaling Independent of β-Catenin
Authors: Shan Juanjuan , Shen Junjie , Wu Min , Zhou Haijun , Feng Juan , Yao Chao , Yang Zhi , Ma Qinghua , Luo Yanfeng , Wang Yuanliang , Qian Cheng
Published: July 2019

Tcf7l1, which is a key effector molecule of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, is highly expressed in various cancers, and it promotes tumor growth. In this study, we demonstrated that unlike its tumor-promoting effects in several other types of cancers, Tcf7l1 expression is downregulated in hepatocarcinoma compared with their adjacent nontumor counterparts. Underexpression of Tcf7l1 is correlated with poorer survival. In liver cancer stem cell (CSC) populations, Tcf7l1 expression is downregulated. Ectopic expression of Tcf7l1 attenuates the self-renewal abilities of liver CSCs. Mechanistically, Tcf7l1 regulates the self-renewal abilities of liver CSCs through transcriptional repression of the Nanog gene, and the effect is independent of β-catenin. Moreover, we found that Tcf7l1 expression is controlled by extracellular insulin-like growth factor (IGF) signaling, and we demonstrated for the first time that IGF signaling stimulates Tcf7l1 phosphorylation and degradation through the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MEK)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathway. Overall, our results provide some new insights into how extracellular signals modulate the self-renewal of liver CSCs and highlight the inhibitory roles of Tcf7l1 in cancer. Stem Cells  2019;37:1389–1400
On Verdigris, Part III: Crystal Structure, Magnetic and Spectral Properties of Anhydrous Copper(II) Acetate, a Paddle Wheel Chain
Authors: Bette Sebastian , Costes Alice , Kremer Reinhard K. , Eggert Gerhard , Tang Chiu C. , Dinnebier Robert E.
Published: July 2019

Pure anhydrous Cu(CH3COO)2 was obtained both, by thermal dehydration of Cu(CH3COO)2·H2O and by drying a commercially purchased mixture of Cu(CH3COO)2·H2O and Cu(CH3COO)2 in a nitrogen atmosphere using P2O5 as drying agent. The crystal structure was solved ab initio from synchrotron X‐ray powder diffraction (XRPD) data at 150 °C and from laboratory XRPD data at ambient conditions and found to be isotypic to anhydrous chromium(II), molybdenum(II) and rhodium(II) acetate. Cu(CH3COO)2 crystallizes in space group P1 (no. 2) with lattice parameters of a = 5.1486(3) Å, b = 7.5856(6) Å, c = 8.2832(6) Å, α = 77.984(4)°, β = 75.911(8)°, γ = 84.256(6)° at ambient conditions. Cu2(CH3COO)4 paddle wheels with short (2.6 Å) Cu–Cu distances form chains in a direction, which is the main motif in the crystal structure. Due to their identical structural main motif Cu(CH3COO)2·H2O and Cu(CH3COO)2 exhibit a similar bluish‐green color, almost identical UV/Vis spectra and comparable magnetic properties. The temperature dependent magnetic susceptibility also indicates only weak inter‐dimer spin exchange between neighbouring Cu2(CH3COO)4 paddle wheels.
Common Physical Barriers That Limit Access for Voters with Disabilities and Options to Solve Them
Authors: Terry Jim , Dunlap Kaylan , Flickinger Steve , Woosley Dan
Published: July 2019

Successfully conducting an election requires that election administrators consider the diverse needs of their constituents and provide polling locations that allow those with disabilities to access the polling location and cast a ballot without encountering barriers. Having a working knowledge of the terminology and standards used to assess polling location accessibility can ensure that election administrators and poll workers are creating an environment that allows all voters to cast a ballot.
Towards black hole evaporation in Jackiw-Teitelboim gravity
Authors: Mertens Thomas G.
Published: July 2019

Abstract

Using a definition of the bulk frame within 2d Jackiw-Teitelboim gravity, we go into the bulk from the Schwarzian boundary. Including the path integral over the Schwarzian degrees of freedom, we discuss the quantum gravitational Unruh effect and the Planckian black-body spectrum of the thermal atmosphere. We analyze matter entanglement entropy and how the entangling surface should be defined in quantum gravity. Finally, we reanalyze a semi-classical model for black hole evaporation studied in [1] and compute the entanglement between early and late Hawking radiation, illustrating information loss in the semi-classical framework.
Probing neutrino transition magnetic moments with coherent elastic neutrino-nucleus scattering
Authors: Miranda O. G. , Papoulias D. K. , Tórtola M. , Valle J. W. F.
Published: July 2019

Abstract

We explore the potential of current and next generation of coherent elastic neutrino-nucleus scattering (CEνNS) experiments in probing neutrino electromagnetic interactions. On the basis of a thorough statistical analysis, we determine the sensitivities on each component of the Majorana neutrino transition magnetic moment (TMM), |Λi|, that follow from low-energy neutrino-nucleus experiments. We derive the sensitivity to neutrino TMM from the first CEνNS measurement by the COHERENT experiment, at the Spallation Neutron Source. We also present results for the next phases of COHERENT using HPGe, LAr and NaI[Tl] detectors and for reactor neutrino experiments such as CONUS, CONNIE, MINER, TEXONO and RED100. The role of the CP violating phases in each case is also briefly discussed. We conclude that future CEνNS experiments with low-threshold capabilities can improve current TMM limits obtained from Borexino data.
Higgs interference effects at the one-loop level in the 1-Higgs-Singlet extension of the Standard Model
Authors: Kauer Nikolas , Lind Alexander , Maierhöfer Philipp , Song Weimin
Published: July 2019

Abstract

A detailed study of Higgs interference effects at the one-loop level in the 1-Higgs-Singlet extension of the Standard Model (1HSM) is presented for the W
+
W
− and

$$ t\overline{t} $$

t

t
¯

decay modes with fully leptonic W W decay. We explore interference effects for benchmark points with a heavy Higgs mass that significantly exceeds 2m

t
. In the W W channel, the Higgs signal and the interfering continuum background are loop induced. In the

$$ t\overline{t} $$

t

t
¯

channel, which features a tree-level background, we also calculate the interference with the one-loop background, which, due to the appearance of the absorptive part, is found to dominate the normalisation and shape of differential Higgs cross section distributions and should therefore be considered in experimental analyses. The commonly used geometric average K-factor approximation K
interference ≈ (K
Higgs
K
background)1/2 is not appropriate. We calculate with massive top and bottom quarks. Our 1HSM and SM implementation in Sherpa+OpenLoops is publicly available and can be used as parton-level integrator or event generator.
Looking for partially-massless gravity
Authors: Joung Euihun , Mkrtchyan Karapet , Poghosyan Gabriel
Published: July 2019

Abstract

We study the possibility for a unitary theory of partially-massless (PM) spin-two field interacting with Gravity in arbitrary dimensions. We show that the gauge and parity invariant interaction of PM spin two particles requires the inclusion of specific massive spin-two fields and leads to a reconstruction of Conformal Gravity, or multiple copies of the latter in even dimensions. By relaxing the parity invariance, we find a possibility of a unitary theory in four dimensions, but this theory cannot be constructed in the standard formulation, due to the absence of the parity-odd cubic vertex therein. Finally, by relaxing the general covariance, we show that a “non-geometric” coupling between massless and PM spin-two fields may lead to an alternative possibility of a unitary theory. We also clarify some aspects of interactions between massless, partially-massless and massive fields, and resolve disagreements in the literature.
Using artificial intelligence in the fight against spam
Authors: Oetjen Jan
Published: July 2019

More than 40 years ago, on 3 May 1978, a computer vendor in the US sent the first spam email in history. It was sent by marketing manager Gary Thuerk to a list of 320 people who were active at that time on Arpanet, a predecessor of today's Internet, and was to invite them to the launch of a new computer in Los Angeles and San Mateo.
God and Abstract Objects
Authors: Bøhn Einar Duenger
Published: July 2019

Some believe that there is a God who is the source of all things; and some believe that there are necessarily existing abstract objects. But can one believe both these things? That is the question of this Element. First, Einar Duenger Bøhn clarifies the concepts involved, and the problem that arises from believing in both God and abstract objects. Second, he presents and discusses the possible kinds of solutions to that problem. Third, Bøhn discusses a new kind of solution to the problem, according to which reality is most fundamentally made of information.
Frictionless Contact Problem for a Functionally Graded Layer Loaded Through Two Rigid Punches Using Finite Element Method
Authors: Polat A. , Kaya Y. , Bendine K. , Özşahin T.Ş.
Published: July 2019

In this study, continuous contact problem in the functionally graded (FG) layer loaded with two rigid flat blocks resting on the elastic semi-infinite plane was analyzed by the finite element method. The two-dimensional numerical model of the FG layer was made with the software added to the ANSYS program. This software can be adapted to all contact problem types by making minor changes. The accuracy check of the program was performed by comparing with the analytical solution of the problem by homogeneous layer and its solution by the finite element method. So, fast and practical solutions can be obtained by the developed finite element method on many applications such as; automotive, aviation and space industry applications. The comparisons made showed that the proposed solution gave good results at acceptable levels. In the problem, it was thought that all surfaces were frictionless. The external loads P and Q were transmitted to the FG layer via two flat rigid blocks. Normal stresses between the FG layer and the elastic plane, initial separation loads, initial separation distances and contact stresses under the blocks were investigated for various dimensionless quantities.
Distributions as initial values in a triangular hyperbolic system of conservation laws
Authors: Sarrico C. O. R. , Paiva A.
Published: July 2019

The present paper concerns the systemut + [ϕ(u)]x = 0,vt + [ψ(u)v]x = 0 having distributions as initial conditions. Under certain conditions, and supposingϕ,ψ: ℝ → ℝ functions, we explicitly solve this Cauchy problem within a convenient space of distributionsu,v. For this purpose, a consistent extension of the classical solution concept defined in the setting of a distributional product (not constructed by approximation processes) is used. Shock waves,δ-shock waves, and also waves defined by distributions that are not measures are presented explicitly as examples. This study is carried out without assuming classical results about conservation laws. For reader's convenience, a brief survey of the distributional product is also included.
The Smithian–Spathian boundary in North Greenland: implications for extreme global climate changes
Authors: Lindström Sofie , Bjerager Morten , Alsen Peter , Sanei Hamed , Bojesen-Koefoed Jørgen
Published: July 2019

Smithian–lower Anisian strata in Peary Land, North Greenland, were deposited at ∼45° N on the northern margin of Pangaea in offshore to upper shoreface settings. The well-constrained succession (palynology and ammonite biostratigraphy) documents a remarkable shift from lycophyte spore-dominated assemblages in the upper Smithian to gymnosperm pollen-dominated ones in the lower Spathian in concert with a marked shift of +6 ‰ in δ13Corg. Correlation with other Smithian–Spathian boundary sections that record terrestrial floral changes indicates that the recovery of gymnosperms began earlier in the mid-latitudes of the Southern Hemisphere than in the Northern Hemisphere. The lycophyte-dominated Late Smithian Thermal Maximum is here interpreted as reflecting dry and hot climatic conditions with only brief seasonal precipitation unable to sustain large areas of gymnosperm trees, but able to revive dehydrated lycophytes. This suggests that the Late Smithian Thermal Maximum was a time of widespread aridity, which is also supported by red bed deposition in many areas globally, even as far south as Antarctica. The shift to gymnosperm-dominated vegetation during the cooling across the Smithian–Spathian boundary reflects a change to seasonally more humid climatic conditions favouring gymnosperm recovery, and could have been initiated by increased albedo over land due to the widespread aridity during the Late Smithian Thermal Maximum. The recovery of gymnosperm vegetation would have helped to draw down CO2from the atmosphere and exacerbate global cooling.