bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biogeomorphic keystones and equivalents: Examples from a bedrock stream
Authors: Jerin Tasnuba , Phillips Jonathan
Published: March 2020

Biogeomorphic keystone species profoundly impact landscapes, such that their introduction or removal would cause fundamental changes in geomorphic systems. This paper explores the concept of biogeomorphic keystone species by examining the general vs. species‐specific biogeomorphic impacts (BGIs) of trees on a limestone bedrock‐controlled stream, Shawnee Run, in central Kentucky. Field investigation identified three strong BGIs: (i) biogeomorphic pool formation via bioweathering; (ii) root bank‐associated bioprotection; and (iii) avulsion‐originated island development linked to bioprotection. This research evaluates these impacts in the context of keystone or other biogeomorphic roles. A field survey was conducted on nine stream reaches, each consisting of 10–12 hydraulic units of riffle, pool, and run. Results suggest that American sycamore (Platanus occidentalis) plays a keystone role by promoting the development of ~42% of pools in the study area. While geomorphic pools are formed by fluvial process–form linkages, these biogeomorphic pools are developed by sycamore root‐induced channel bed bioweathering. Only American sycamore and chinquapin oak (Quercus muehlenbergii) exhibited root‐bank development amongst 15 different species identified – and thus play a vital role in bank bioprotection. Lastly, trees can promote avulsion‐originated island formation by creating erosion‐resistant bioprotective patches. Mature trees (in terms of size), particularly large American sycamore and chinquapin oak, dominate Shawnee Run islands with a mean diameter at breast height (DBH) > 40 cm. However, other trees can provide comparable bioprotection, particularly at mature stages. Because its absence would result in fundamentally different stream morphology, sycamore can be considered a biogeomorphic keystone species in Shawnee Run. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Study on the browning mechanism of betel nut (Betel catechu L.) kernel
Authors: Guo Yuting , Pan Yonggui , Zhang Zhengke , Zhang Weimin
Published: March 2020

Taking betel nut (Betel catechu L.) kernel as raw materials, to analyze the browning mechanism of betel nut kernel. First, we extract and separate the phenolic substances and polyphenol oxidase (PPO) from the betel nut kernel and then find out how O2 penetrates into the kernel, study the above 3 key factors of enzymatic browning so as to prove the possibility of enzymatic browning, and further study the browning products to clarify the mechanism of browning of betel nut kernel during storage process. The results showed that 11 kinds of phenolic compounds were isolated and identified from the betel nut kernel by liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry, among which chlorogenic acid was the highest, followed by dopamine and L‐epicatechin, and other contents were relatively low. Meanwhile, PPO was also separated from the betel nut kernel by DEAE–Sepharose Fast Flow and Phenyl–Sepharose 6 Fast Flow column chromatography. On this basis, scanning electron microscopy showed that the damage of the betel nut tissue was aggravated with the prolonged storage time, the wax was gradually decomposed, and the stratum corneum of the peel is destroyed in a honeycomb‐shaped; the lignification of the flesh was aggravated, and the interstitial space was increased; and the crack of the kernel membrane was also enlarged. These changes of structure contribute to increase gas exchange within and outside the organization, including the entry of O2. Finally, the oxidation products generated from simulated reaction of chlorogenic acid, dopamine, and epicatechin with purified PPO under aerobic conditions in vitro were compared with the products extracted from naturally brown betel nut, and the same absorption spectra were found. Therefore, it indicates that the browning of betel nut kernel is an enzymatic browning caused by the reaction of phenolic substrates were oxidized by PPO.
Ionic strength and hydrogen bonding effects on whey protein isolate–flaxseed gum coacervate rheology
Authors: Liu Jun , Shim Youn Young , Reaney Martin J. T.
Published: March 2020

Whey protein isolate (WPI) was mixed with anionic flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) gum (FG), and phase transition during coacervate formation was monitored. Effects of ionic strength and hydrogen bonding on coacervation of WPI‐FG system and corresponding rheological properties were investigated. During coacervate formation, structural transitions were confirmed by both turbidimetry and confocal laser scanning microscopy. Increasing ionic strength with sodium chloride (50 mM) decreased optical density (600 nm) at pHmax. Correspondingly, pHc and pHϕ1 decreased from pH 5.4 to 4.8 and from 5.0 to 4.6, respectively, while pHϕ2 increased from pH 1.8 to 2.4. Sodium chloride suppressed biopolymer electrostatic interactions and reduced coacervate formation. Adding urea (100 mM) shifted pHϕ1, pHmax, and pHϕ2 from 4.8, 3.8, and 1.8 to 5.0, 4.0, and 2.2, respectively, while pHc was unaffected. Optical density (600 nm) at pHmax (0.536) was lower than that of control in the absence of urea (0.617). This confirmed the role of hydrogen bonding during coacervate formation in the biopolymer system composed of WPI and FG. Dynamic shear behavior and viscoelasticity of collected coacervates were measured, and both shear‐thinning behavior and gel‐like properties were observed. Addition of sodium chloride and urea reduced ionic strength and hydrogen bonding, resulting in decreased WPI‐FG coacervate dynamic viscosity and viscoelasticity. The disturbed charge balance contributed to a loosely packed structure of coacervates which were less affected by altered hydrogen bonding. Findings obtained here will help to predict flaxseed gum behavior in protein‐based foods.
Tracing the genesis of skarn‐type iron deposit in central North China Craton: Insights from mineral zoning textures in ore‐forming intrusion
Authors: Zhang Ju‐Quan , Yan Li‐Na , Santosh M. , Li Sheng‐Rong , Lu Jing , Wang Dui‐Xing , Liang Xian , Wang Lin‐Xuan , Li Ya‐Qi
Published: March 2020

The Handan–Xingtai region in the southern Taihang Mountains in central North China Craton hosts several skarn‐type iron deposits. Here we investigate an ore‐forming intrusion associated with a typical iron skarn deposit to explore the magmatic evolution from mineral zoning textures, and to constrain the ore genesis. We report results of X‐ray mapping of the composition of amphibole and plagioclase. The amphibole thermobarometers suggest: (a) magma chamber at a depth of 17 km; (b) two types of magma with different physical and chemical properties, one representing the main magma chamber with high water content, and the other characterized by more mafic composition and higher oxygen fugacity. The final emplacement depth of magma is estimated as ca. 1.5 km. The oxygen fugacity shows an obvious increase from the primary magma chamber to its emplacement depth. The zoning texture of plagioclase and amphibole suggest that the mafic magma was injected into felsic magma chamber many times, leading to magma mixing. We construct a petrogenetic and metallogenic model which envisages the following processes: (a) during 135–120 Ma, mantle‐derived magma and crust‐derived magma underwent mixing and homogenization at the crust–mantle boundary; (b) the hybrid magma rose to the middle crust and formed a magma chamber; (c) multiple injection of mafic magma into the felsic magma chamber resulted in oscillatory zoning; (d) the magma with high water content and higher modal content of plagioclase and amphibole formed through multiple magmatic injection‐mixing‐crystallization processes; and (f) the high water content and higher oxygen fugacity enabled the hybrid magma to rise to the shallow crust, where it released iron‐rich melt and fluids, which reacted with the surrounding limestones to generate the skarn‐ type iron deposit.
Investigating functional changes in the brain to intermittently induced auditory illusions and its relevance to chronic tinnitus
Authors: Mohan Anusha , Bhamoo Neil , Riquelme Juan S. , Long Samantha , Norena Arnaud , Vanneste Sven
Published: March 2020

Several studies have demonstrated the neural correlates of chronic tinnitus. However, we still do not understand what happens in the acute phase. Past studies have established Zwicker tone (ZT) illusions as a good human model for acute tinnitus. ZT illusions are perceived following the presentation of a notched noise stimulus, that is, broadband noise with a narrow band‐stop filter (notch). In the current study, we compared the neural correlates of the reliable perception of a ZT illusion to that which is not. We observed changes in evoked and total theta power in wide‐spread regions of the brain particularly in the temporal‐parietal junction, pregenual anterior cingulate cortex/ventromedial prefrontal cortex (pgACC/vmPFC), parahippocampus during perception of the ZT illusion. Furthermore, we observe that increased theta power significantly predicts a gradual positive change in the intensity of the ZT illusion. Such changes may suggest a malfunction of the sensory gating system that enables habituation to redundant stimuli and suppresses hyperactivity. It could also suggest a successful retrieval of the memory of the missing frequencies, resulting in their conscious perception indicating the role of higher‐order processing in the mechanism of action of ZT illusions. To establish a more concrete relationship between ZT illusion and chronic tinnitus, future longitudinal studies following up a much larger sample of participants who reliably perceive a ZT illusion to see if they develop tinnitus at a later stage is essential. This could inform us if the ZT illusion may be a precursor to chronic tinnitus.
“Unless you overdose or something you’re not going to get help”: What do adolescent experiences reveal about the mental health system in Perth, Western Australia?
Authors: Platell Monique , Martin Karen , Fisher Colleen , Cook Angus
Published: March 2020

Issues addressed

To explore adolescents’ experiences of access to and continued use of mental health services, and identify factors influencing their perceived satisfaction with their care. This paper focusses on the role of organisational and policy‐level factors in the mental health system.

Method

Qualitative semi‐structured face‐to‐face interviews with 22 adolescents aged 14‐18 years living in Perth, Western Australia.

Results

Adolescents identified key policy, systemic and service‐based factors which influenced their access to and continued use of mental health services. These were strongly related to the processes of service intake, level of orientation towards person‐centred care and adequacy of service resourcing and funding. Areas of concern for adolescents included, complex service intake procedures, suboptimal mental health service environments, lack of client‐centred care and the quality of mental health support provided in school settings.

Conclusions

Our research has identified a wide spectrum of factors influencing mental health service access and use amongst adolescents. The findings further support the growing national consensus for major reform to address the mental health needs of this age group. The current strengths within mental health services and the system identified by adolescents need to be supported and extended.

So what?

Although there have been numerous recommendations on ways to improve mental health service access and ongoing engagement for Australian adolescents, a number of the major challenges faced by this high‐risk population have shown little improvement. The findings of this research indicate the importance of now moving towards implementing meaningful plans for action.
Modeling the Human Bone–Tumor Niche: Reducing and Replacing the Need for Animal Data
Authors: Rao Srinivasa R , Edwards Claire M , Edwards James R
Published: March 2020

Bone is the most common site for cancer metastasis. Understanding the interactions within the complex, heterogeneous bone–tumor microenvironment is essential for the development of new therapeutics. Various animal models of tumor‐induced bone disease are routinely used to provide valuable information on the relationship between cancer cells and the skeleton. However, new model systems exist that offer an alternative approach to the use of animals and might more accurately reveal the cellular interactions occurring within the human bone–tumor niche. This review highlights replacement models that mimic the bone microenvironment and where cancer metastases and tumor growth might be assessed alongside bone turnover. Such culture models include the use of calcified regions of animal tissue and scaffolds made from bone mineral hydroxyapatite, synthetic polymers that can be manipulated during manufacture to create structures resembling trabecular bone surfaces, gel composites that can be modified for stiffness and porosity to resemble conditions in the tumor–bone microenvironment. Possibly the most accurate model system involves the use of fresh human bone samples, which can be cultured ex vivo in the presence of human tumor cells and demonstrate similar cancer cell–bone cell interactions as described in vivo. In addition, the use of mathematical modeling and computational biology approaches provide an alternative to preliminary animal testing. The use of such models offers the capacity to mimic significant elements of the human bone–tumor environment, and complement, refine, or replace the use of preclinical models. © 2020 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Cxcl12 Deletion in Mesenchymal Cells Increases Bone Turnover and Attenuates the Loss of Cortical Bone Caused by Estrogen Deficiency in Mice
Authors: Ponte Filipa , Kim Ha-Neui , Iyer Srividhya , Han Li , Almeida Maria , Manolagas Stavros C
Published: March 2020

CXCL12 is abundantly expressed in reticular cells associated with the perivascular niches of the bone marrow (BM) and is indispensable for B lymphopoiesis. Cxcl12 promotes osteoclastogenesis and has been implicated in pathologic bone resorption. We had shown earlier that estrogen receptor α deletion in osteoprogenitors and estrogen deficiency in mice increase Cxcl12 mRNA and protein levels in the BM plasma, respectively. We have now generated female and male mice with conditional deletion of a Cxcl12 allele in Prrx1 targeted cells (Cxcl12∆Prrx1) and show herein that they have a 90% decrease in B lymphocytes but increased erythrocytes and adipocytes in the marrow. Ovariectomy increased the expression of Cxcl12 and B-cell number in the Cxcl12f/f control mice, but these effects were abrogated in the Cxcl12∆Prrx1 mice. Cortical bone mass was not affected in Cxcl12∆Prrx1 mice. Albeit, the cortical bone loss caused by ovariectomy was greatly attenuated. Most unexpectedly, the rate of bone turnover in sex steroid–sufficient female or male Cxcl12∆Prrx1 mice was dramatically increased, as evidenced by a more than twofold increase in several osteoblast- and osteoclast-specific mRNAs, as well as increased mineral apposition and bone formation rate and increased osteoclast number in the endosteal surface. The magnitude of the Cxcl12∆Prrx1-induced changes were much greater than those caused by ovariectomy or orchidectomy in the Cxcl12f/f mice. These results strengthen the evidence that CXCL12 contributes to the loss of cortical bone mass caused by estrogen deficiency. Moreover, they reveal for the first time that in addition to its effects on hematopoiesis, CXCL12 restrains bone turnover—without changing the balance between resorption and formation—by suppressing osteoblastogenesis and the osteoclastogenesis support provided by cells of the osteoblast lineage. © 2020 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Enteroendocrine K Cells Exert Complementary Effects to Control Bone Quality and Mass in Mice
Authors: Gobron Benoît , Bouvard Béatrice , Vyavahare Sagar , Blom Liv VV , Pedersen Kristian K , Windeløv Johanne A , Boer Geke A , Harada Norio , Zhang Sheng , Shimazu-Kuwahara Satoko , Wice Burton , Inagaki Nobuya , Legrand Erick , Flatt Peter R , Chappard Daniel , Hartmann Bolette , Holst Jens J , Rosenkilde Mette M , Irwin Nigel , Mabilleau Guillaume
Published: March 2020

The involvement of a gut-bone axis in controlling bone physiology has been long suspected, although the exact mechanisms are unclear. We explored whether glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP)-producing enteroendocrine K cells were involved in this process. The bone phenotype of transgenic mouse models lacking GIP secretion (GIP-GFP-KI) or enteroendocrine K cells (GIP-DT) was investigated. Mice deficient in GIP secretion exhibited lower bone strength, trabecular bone mass, trabecular number, and cortical thickness, notably due to higher bone resorption. Alterations of microstructure, modifications of bone compositional parameters, represented by lower collagen cross-linking, were also apparent. None of these alterations were observed in GIP-DT mice lacking enteroendocrine K cells, suggesting that another K-cell secretory product acts to counteract GIP action. To assess this, stable analogues of the known K-cell peptide hormones, xenin and GIP, were administered to mature NIH Swiss male mice. Both were capable of modulating bone strength mostly by altering bone microstructure, bone gene expression, and bone compositional parameters. However, the two molecules exhibited opposite actions on bone physiology, with evidence that xenin effects are mediated indirectly, possibly via neural networks. Our data highlight a previously unknown interaction between GIP and xenin, which both moderate gut-bone connectivity. © 2020 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Changes in Skeletal Microstructure Through Four Continuous Years of rhPTH(1–84) Therapy in Hypoparathyroidism
Authors: Cusano Natalie E , Rubin Mishaela R , Williams John M , Agarwal Sanchita , Tabacco Gaia , Tay Donovan , Majeed Rukshana , Omeragic Beatriz , Bilezikian John P
Published: March 2020

Bone remodeling is reduced in hypoparathyroidism, resulting in increased areal bone mineral density (BMD) by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and abnormal skeletal indices by transiliac bone biopsy. We have now studied skeletal microstructure by high-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT) through 4 years of treatment with recombinant human PTH(1–84) (rhPTH[1–84]) in 33 patients with hypoparathyroidism (19 with postsurgical disease, 14 idiopathic). We calculated Z-scores for our cohort compared with previously published normative values. We report results at baseline and 1, 2, and 4 years of continuous therapy with rhPTH(1–84). The majority of patients (62%) took rhPTH(1–84) 100 μg every other day for the majority of the 4 years. At 48 months, areal bone density increased at the lumbar spine (+4.9% ± 0.9%) and femoral neck (+2.4% ± 0.9%), with declines at the total hip (−2.3% ± 0.8%) and ultradistal radius (−2.1% ± 0.7%) (p < .05 for all). By HR-pQCT, at the radius site, very similar to the ultradistal DXA site, total volumetric BMD declined from baseline but remained above normative values at 48 months (Z-score + 0.56). Cortical volumetric BMD was lower than normative controls at baseline at the radius and tibia (Z-scores −1.28 and − 1.69, respectively) and further declined at 48 months (−2.13 and − 2.56, respectively). Cortical porosity was higher than normative controls at baseline at the tibia (Z-score + 0.72) and increased through 48 months of therapy at both sites (Z-scores +1.80 and + 1.40, respectively). Failure load declined from baseline at both the radius and tibia, although remained higher than normative controls at 48 months (Z-scores +1.71 and + 1.17, respectively). This is the first report of noninvasive high-resolution imaging in a cohort of hypoparathyroid patients treated with any PTH therapy for this length of time. The results give insights into the effects of long-term rhPTH(1–84) in hypoparathyroidism. © 2020 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
High‐dose atorvastatin improves vascular endothelial function in patients with leukoaraiosis
Authors: Xue Jianan , Wu Zhisheng , Gong Shujie , Qin Shengying , Gu Aiming
Published: March 2020

Objective

Leukoaraiosis (LA), as an age‐related white matter degeneration, is mainly caused by chronic ischemia. Our study aims to explore the efficacy of different doses of atorvastatin (ATV) in the vascular endothelial function in patients with LA.

Methods

Our study enrolled 402 LA patients who were then randomly included as control or treated with ATV (10 mg), ATV (20 mg), or ATV (30 mg). The total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C), and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) were detected by enzyme colorimetric assay. The high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hs‐CRP) level, reactive hyperemia index (RHI), endothelin‐1 (ET‐1) content, and nitric oxide (NO) level were tested by latex agglutination test, peripheral arterial tonometry technology, radioimmunoassay, and nitrate reductase assay, respectively.

Results

After 8 weeks of ATV treatment, the levels of TC, LDL‐C, and HS‐CRP decreased significantly, and the trends were demonstrated in a more significant way with the increases of dose of ATV. The treatment with ATV at different doses elevated NO level and RHI and declined ET‐1 content. Gastrointestinal reaction, muscular pain, and increased aminopherase were observed after treatment with the ATV at different doses with more obvious symptoms detected accompanied by the increase of the dose. The RHI was in negative correlation with the ET‐1 and HS‐CRP while in positive correlation with NO.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates that ATV can significantly improve the vascular endothelial function in LA patients with a dose‐dependent effect.
Sources and Channels of International Knowledge Spillovers in ASEAN‐5: The Role of Institutional Quality
Authors: Dogan Ergun , Wong Koi Nyen
Published: March 2020

Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is a dynamic and outward‐looking regional economy, which has made notable progress in expanding trade and investment. This paper examines whether knowledge spillovers are prevalent among ASEAN‐5, focusing on the issues of which channels and which sources are the potential drivers of total factor productivity. The findings reveal that the key spillover channels are exports and non‐capital imports coming from source countries such as the Organisation for Economic Co‐operation and Development (OECD) countries, the G7 countries. The institutional quality plays an instrumental role in increasing total factor productivity through foreign direct investment, especially when the spillovers originate from the OECD and the G7. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Towards Automated Quantification of Vessel Wall Composition Using MRI
Authors: Ziegler Magnus , Good Elin , Engvall Jan , Warntjes Marcel , de Muinck Ebo , Dyverfeldt Petter
Published: March 2020

Background

MRI can be used to generate fat fraction (FF) and R2* data, which have been previously shown to characterize the plaque compositional features lipid‐rich necrotic core (LRNC) and intraplaque hemorrhage (IPH) in the carotid arteries (CAs). Previously, these data were extracted from CA plaques using time‐consuming manual analyses.

Purpose

To design and demonstrate a method for segmenting the CA and extracting data describing the composition of the vessel wall.

Study Type

Prospective.

Subjects

31 subjects from the Swedish CArdioPulmonary bioImage Study (SCAPIS).

Field Strength/Sequences

T1‐weighted (T1W) quadruple inversion recovery, contrast‐enhanced MR angiography (CE‐MRA), and 4‐point Dixon data were acquired at 3T.

Assessment

The vessel lumen of the CA was automatically segmented using support vector machines (SVM) with CE‐MRA data, and the vessel wall region was subsequently delineated. Automatically generated segmentations were quantitatively measured and three observers visually compared the segmentations to manual segmentations performed on T1w images. Dixon data were used to generate FF and R2* maps. Both manually and automatically generated segmentations of the CA and vessel wall were used to extract compositional data.

Statistical Tests

Two‐tailed t‐tests were used to examine differences between results generated using manual and automated analyses, and among different configurations of the automated method. Interobserver agreement was assessed with Fleiss' kappa.

Results

Automated segmentation of the CA using SVM had a Dice score of 0.89 ± 0.02 and true‐positive ratio 0.93 ± 0.03 when compared against ground truth, and median qualitative score of 4/5 when assessed visually by multiple observers. Vessel wall regions of 0.5 and 1 mm yielded compositional information similar to that gained from manual analyses. Using the 0.5 mm vessel wall region, the mean difference was 0.1 ± 2.5% considering FF and 1.1 ± 5.7[1/s] for R2*.

Level of Evidence

1.

Technical Efficacy Stage

1. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;52:710–719.
Acetabular reconstruction with an ice‐cream cone prosthesis following resection of pelvic tumors: Does computer navigation improve surgical outcome?
Authors: Fujiwara Tomohiro , Sree Deepak V. , Stevenson Jonathan , Kaneuchi Yoichi , Parry Michael , Tsuda Yusuke , Le Nail Louis‐Romée , Medellin Ricardo M. , Grimer Robert , Jeys Lee
Published: March 2020

Background and Objectives

Acetabular reconstruction with a coned‐stem prosthesis has been one of the reliable procedures following pelvic tumor resections but is associated with a risk of complications and postoperative morbidity. We investigated whether navigated reconstruction could decrease the complication rate and optimize outcomes.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted on 33 patients who underwent acetabular resection and reconstruction with ice‐cream cone prostheses; outcomes were compared between the navigated and nonnavigated groups.

Results

A clear margin was obtained in 91% and 82% of the navigated and nonnavigated groups, respectively. The local recurrence (LR) rate was 12%, and all LRs occurred in the nonnavigated group. The rate of major complications requiring surgical intervention was significantly lower in the navigated group (9%) than in the nonnavigated group (50%; P = .024). Two implant failures occurred in the nonnavigated group. Functional outcomes were significantly correlated with the occurrence of major complications (P = .010) and the use of navigation (P = .043); superior functional scores were observed in the navigated group (Musculoskeletal Tumor Society, 73% vs 55%; Toronto Extremity Salvage Score, 73% vs 56%).

Conclusion

Ice‐cream cone prosthesis is an acceptable reconstruction modality following periacetabular tumor resections, and computer navigation are useful to facilitate proper resection margins and implant position.
The amount of signet ring cells is significantly associated with tumour stage and survival in gastric poorly cohesive tumours
Authors: Bencivenga Maria , Treppiedi Elio , Dal Cero Mariagiulia , Torroni Lorena , Verlato Giuseppe , Iglesias Mar , Renaud Florence , Tomezzoli Anna , Castelli Claudia , Piessen Guillaume , Pera Manuel , de Manzoni Giovanni
Published: March 2020

Background and Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the amount of signet ring cells (SRCs) affects clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis of poorly cohesive (PC) gastric tumours.

Study design

One hundred seventy‐three patients with PC tumours treated at three European centres from 2004 to 2014 were reclassified in three categories: (a) pure SRC cancers (SRC1) (≥90% SRCs); (b) PC carcinoma with SRC component (SRC2) (>10%, <90% SRCs); (c) PC carcinoma not otherwise specified (SRC3) (≤10% SRCs).

Results

The percentage of SRCs was inversely related to the pT stage (Spearman's ρ = −0.174, P < .001) and the number of positive nodes coded as a continuous variable (P = .009). Five year cancer‐related survival was significantly higher (58%, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 36%‐75%) in SRC1 compared with SRC2 (39%, 95% CI: 28%‐50%) and SRC3 (38%, 95% CI: 22%‐53%), (P = .048). In multivariable analysis, the impact of PC categories on cancer‐related survival was significant when controlling for sex, age, pT, pN, and curativity (hazard ratio [HR] of sSRC2 vs SRC1 = 2.08, 95% CI: 1.01‐4.29, P = .046; HR of SRC3 vs SRC1 = 2.38, 95% CI: 1.05‐5.41, P = .039).

Conclusion

The percentage of SRCs was inversely related to tumour aggressiveness, with long‐term survival significantly higher in SRC1 compared with SRC2 and SRC3 tumours.
Interconnected effects of shrubs, invertebrate‐derived macropores and soil texture on water infiltration in a semi‐arid savanna rangeland
Authors: Marquart Arnim , Eldridge David J. , Geissler Katja , Lobas Christoph , Blaum Niels
Published: March 2020

Many semi arid savannas are prone to degradation, caused for example, by overgrazing or extreme climatic events, which often lead to shrub encroachment. Overgrazing by livestock affects vegetation and infiltration processes by directly altering plant composition (selective grazing) or by impacting soil physical properties (trampling). Water infiltration is controlled by several parameters, such as macropores (created by soil‐burrowing animals or plant roots) and soil texture, but their effects have mostly been studied in isolation. Here we report on a study, in which we conducted infiltration experiments to analyze the interconnected effects of invertebrate‐created macropores, shrubs and soil texture (sandy soil and loamy sand) on infiltration in two Namibian rangelands. Using structural equation modeling, we found a direct positive effect of shrub size on infiltration and indirectly via invertebrate macropores on both soil types. On loamy sands this effect was even stronger, but additionally, invertebrate‐created macropores became relevant as a direct driver of infiltration. Our results provide new insights into the effects of vegetation and invertebrates on infiltration under different soil textures. Pastoralists should use management strategies that maintain a heterogeneous plant community that supports soil fauna to sustain healthy soil water dynamics, particularly on soils with higher loam content. Understanding the fundamental functioning of soil water dynamics in drylands is critical because these ecosystems are water‐limited and support the livelihoods of many cultures worldwide.
Effect of selective logging on soil microbial communities in a Pinus yunnanensis forest
Authors: Li Shuaifeng , Huang Xiaobo , Lang Xuedong , Xu Fandi , Li Hongyun , Zheng Meixiang , Su Jianrong
Published: March 2020

Selective logging strongly affects forest structure and functions, which has direct and indirect effects on the soil microbial community. However, the effect of selective logging on soil microbial community composition remains unclear. We analyzed the soil microbial diversity and community composition in a pine (Pinus yunnanensis) forest using the Illumina platform for bacterial and fungal sequencing. The results showed that selective logging significantly altered most soil properties and stand attributes. Dominant phyla abundance varied significantly with change of selective logging intensity, affecting soil microbial community composition. The diversity of bacterial community decreased with the increase of selective logging intensity, whereas the diversity of fungi initially decreased and then increased. Soil properties accounted for most of the variation in the soil microbial communities, followed by stand attributes. Stand density (SD), soil pH, and soil moisture directly influenced the diversity of the bacterial communities, and understory species richness (USR), soil organic carbon (SOC), and soil hydrolysable nitrogen (HN) also directly influenced bacterial community composition. However, selective logging intensity affected the diversity and composition of the bacterial communities indirectly via SD, soil pH, HN, SOC, and USR. Similarly, the intensity of selective logging directly affected the diversity of fungal communities and also showed indirect effect on it via SD, soil pH, SOC, HN, C:N ratio, and soil available potassium. Further, selective logging intensity indirectly affected fungal community composition via soil available phosphorus. Our findings could be used to predict the change in the soil microbial community for the management of P. yunnanensis forest.
Landscape metrics as a tool for analysis of urban pedodiversity
Authors: Pindral Sylwia , Kot Rafał , Hulisz Piotr , Charzyński Przemysław
Published: March 2020

Landscape metrics play an important role in pedodiversity studies. Despite considerable research on pedodiversity, there is a lack of standardised methods for assessing the degree of soil cover diversity, especially in the urban area. Hence, in this work, we propose a new approach for spatial analyses of the urban soils using landscape metrics. The aim of the study was to develop a qualitative–quantitative landscape‐metrics‐based method for the pedodiversity measurement and the degree of soils' transformation. The research included: selection of input data (cartographic materials), data digitisation, development of an urban soil map and a soil transformation map, creation of a hexagonal grid within the city's administrative boundaries, calculation of eight landscape metrics and their statistical selection, and finally, development of the maps based on original pedodiversity index. Despite the homogeneous initial soil cover of the city, the present, human‐transformed soil cover is relatively heterogeneous by urban soil complexes and the degree of soil transformation. The developed method allows areas of greatest landscape fragmentation to be identified, and thereby to precisely indicate the areas of the most strongly human‐transformed soils and fertile soil losses, which can support urban spatial planning and landscape design.
The Cinderella moment: Exploring consumers' motivations to engage with renting as collaborative luxury consumption mode
Authors: Pantano Eleonora , Stylos Nikolaos
Published: March 2020

Past literature argued that the purchase of luxury goods is driven by people's motivation to conform or fit into our economic and social system. In this study, the authors focus on a new aspect of consumption, that is, renting instead of purchasing luxury goods, backed by the emerging opportunities of sharing economy platforms. Drawing upon the analysis of spontaneous consumers' online communications (in the form of tweets), this study aims to investigate the motivations to engage with luxury garment renting within a collaborative consumption context. To this end, a series of automatic content analyses, via two studies, were conducted using the tweets posted with respect to the Run the Runway collaborative consumption platform. Results demonstrate consumers' increased willingness to show their social status through renting rather than owning luxurious apparel based on five main motivators (need to wear new clothes for a special event, inspirations created by the products/brands, possibility to explore a new way of consuming luxury goods, need to make more sustainable choices, and to increase the life cycle of each luxury product). The implications of these findings are discussed, while they pave the way for future research in collaborative consumption of luxury retailing.
RETRACTED: Forensic features and genetic background exploration of a new 47‐autosomal InDel panel in five representative Han populations residing in Northern China
Authors: Song Feng , Lang Min , Li Luyao , Luo Haibo , Hou Yiping
Published: March 2020

Background

Insertion/deletion (InDel) analysis plays an indispensable role in human identification, population genetics, and biogeographic research. Profiles of individuals in forensic applications worldwide based on a set of autosomal InDel loci (A‐InDels) in human genomes have been widely used over the past few years.

Methods

The new AGCU InDel 50 Kit contains 47 well‐chosen A‐InDels, ensuring high discriminatory power, and the 2 Y chromosome InDel loci (Y‐InDels) are used for sex determination in case of allele dropout at Amelogenin. In this study, five Northern Han populations residing in different geographic areas of China were recruited and genotyped using the assay.

Results

After Bonferroni correction, all 47 A‐InDels were in accordance with the lack of significant departures of Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium in all loci and investigated groups. The combined probability of discrimination and the probability of exclusion in the Han population range from 1–3.2240 × 10–19 to 1–1.3030 × 10–19 and 0.9997, respectively. A comprehensive population genetic relationship investigation between Han Chinese and 26 worldwide populations based on allele frequency correlation was carried out. Our results revealed no significant genetic differentiation in Chinese Han groups. Hierarchical clustering, phylogenetic relationship reconstructions, multidimensional scaling, principal component analysis, and structure analysis were performed, and the results indicated that, genetically, Han populations are closely related to East Asians.

Conclusion

Overall, this novel 47 A‐InDel assay is a valuable tool that could potentially be used for forensic identification and parentage tests.
Hadamard type local fractional integral inequalities for generalized harmonically convex functions and applications
Authors: Sun Wenbing , Liu Qiong
Published: March 2020

In this paper, we establish a local fractional integral identity with a parameter
on Yang's fractal sets. Using this identity, by generalized power mean inequality and generalized Hölder inequality, two Hermite‐Hadamard type local fractional integral inequalities for generalized harmonically convex functions are established. By giving some special values to the parameter, some inequalities with specific form can be obtained. Some applications to generalized special means are given.
Increasing the sensitivity of hyperpolarized [15N2]urea detection by serial transfer of polarization to spin‐coupled protons
Authors: Kreis Felix , Wright Alan J. , Somai Vencel , Katz‐Brull Rachel , Brindle Kevin M.
Published: March 2020

Purpose

Hyperpolarized 15N‐labeled molecules have been proposed as imaging agents for investigating tissue perfusion and pH. However, the sensitivity of direct 15N detection is limited by the isotope's low gyromagnetic ratio. Sensitivity can be increased by transferring 15N hyperpolarization to spin‐coupled protons provided that there is not significant polarization loss during transfer. However, complete polarization transfer would limit the temporal window for imaging to the order of the proton T1 (2‐3 s). To exploit the long T1 offered by storing polarization in 15N and the higher sensitivity of 1H detection, we have developed a pulse sequence for partial polarization transfer.

Methods

A polarization transfer pulse sequence was modified to allow partial polarization transfer, as is required for dynamic measurements, and that can be implemented with inhomogeneous B1 fields, as is often the case in vivo. The sequence was demonstrated with dynamic spectroscopy and imaging measurements with [15N2]urea.

Results

When compared to direct 15N detection, the sequence increased the signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) by a factor of 1.72 ± 0.25, where both experiments depleted ~20% of the hyperpolarization (>10‐fold when 100% of the hyperpolarization is used). Simulations with measured cross relaxation rates showed that this sequence gave up to a 50‐fold increase in urea proton polarization when compared to spontaneous polarization transfer via cross relaxation.

Conclusion

The sequence gave an SNR increase that was close to the theoretical limit and can give a significant SNR benefit when compared to direct 13C detection of hyperpolarized [13C]urea.
Sustaining hope: A narrative inquiry into the experiences of hope for nurses who work alongside people living with HIV in Ghana
Authors: Puplampu Gideon L. , Caine Vera , Clandinin Jean D.
Published: March 2020

Aim

In this research, we explored how nurses working in HIV care in Ghana live and work with hope.

Background

Nurses who work with people living with HIV have concerns about their well‐being and quality of life. They also complain of stress‐related workload due to high nurse–patient ratio. The study sought to examine the experiences of nurses in Ghana and the ways that hope is intertwined with their experiences in working with people living with HIV.

Design

This study was a narrative inquiry study. Narrative inquiry is a collaborative way to inquire into participants' experiences in the three‐dimensional spaces of temporality, sociality and place.

Methods

We engaged with five nurses who work in an acute care setting where their primary focus is to provide care to people living with HIV. We engaged in six to eight conversations with each participant over several months. We asked participants to describe memories of significant experiences in their past and present lives, and share experiences that they would describe hopeful in their HIV nursing practice.

Results

In this narrative inquiry study, four resonant threads emerged and included: (a) becoming a nurse for people living with HIV took time; (b) experiences of practising with hope were important; (c) faith in God, allowed them to gain strength, which was connected to hope; and (d) learning to live with hope was shaped by childhood experiences.
Macroscopic fiber orientation model evaluation for concentrated short fiber reinforced polymers in comparison to experimental data
Authors: Kugler Susanne K. , Lambert Gregory M. , Cruz Camilo , Kech Armin , Osswald Tim A. , Baird Donald G.
Published: March 2020

Advanced macroscopic fiber orientation models depend on a variety of phenomenological parameters. The aim of this work is to identify a fiber orientation model for concentrated short fiber reinforced polymers, which depends on a minimum number of parameters. A sliding plate experiment with repeatable initial conditions and a couette experiment, to cover high strains, are used to define an experimental validation curve. The major fiber orientation models (Folgar and Tucker, nematic, reduced strain closure [RSC], anisotropic rotary diffusion, ARD‐RSC) are fitted to the validation curve. Since a slow evolution can be observed, the RSC model is necessary to fit the measured fiber orientation evolution. The dependency of the RSC model on the initial fiber orientation state and the influence of closure approximations are evaluated. Two validation cases show that the obtained parameters give good results in shear dominant parts, but are not able to predict fiber orientation in other flow regimes accurately.
Comparison of long‐term use of prolonged‐release ropinirole and immediate‐release dopamine agonists in an observational study in patients with Parkinson's disease
Authors: Gungabissoon Usha , Kirichek Oksana , El Baou Céline , Galwey Nicholas
Published: March 2020

Purpose

To estimate the risk of dyskinesia and impulse control disorders (ICDs) in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) prescribed ropinirole prolonged‐release (R‐PR) compared to those prescribed immediate‐release dopamine agonists (IR‐DA) as monotherapy.

Methods

PD patients initiating R‐PR or IR‐DA as monotherapy between 2008 and 2013 were identified on the Clinical Practice Research Datalink. The cohorts were propensity score matched on a 1:1 basis. The incidence of dyskinesia and ICD in each treatment cohort and the incidence rate ratios were calculated. Adherence to medication and time to levodopa initiation were also evaluated.

Results

We identified 341 patients in each treatment cohort after propensity score matching. The baseline characteristics were generally comparable. Dyskinesia incidence in R‐PR and IR‐DA cohorts was 2.98 (95% CI: 0.74‐11.9) and 3.93 (95% CI: 0.98‐15.7) per 1000 person‐years, respectively (incidence rate ratio of R‐PR vs ID‐DA: 0.76, 95% CI: 0.11‐5.38). Less than five cases of ICD were identified and all occurred in the IR‐DA cohort. The patients in the R‐PR cohort remained on treatment for a significantly longer duration than those in the IR‐DA cohort (682 days vs 444 days; P < .0001) and had greater adherence to the medication. The median time to levodopa initiation was 417 days (IQR: 205‐736) in R‐PR vs 297 days (IQR: 111‐552) in IR‐DA cohort.

Conclusions

The number of dyskinesia and ICD events was lower than expected, resulting in an underpowered study. A significantly longer persistence and greater adherence to medication was observed in patients receiving R‐PR compared to IR‐DA.
Drivers for the cracking of multilayer polyamide‐based backsheets in field photovoltaic modules: In‐depth degradation mapping analysis
Authors: Lyu Yadong , Fairbrother Andrew , Gong Mengyan , Kim Jae Hyun , Hauser Adam , O'Brien Greg , Gu Xiaohong
Published: March 2020

There is a lack of understanding on the root cause of cracking of photovoltaic (PV) backsheets due to the challenge of multilayer characterization and the complicated failure modes at the submodule level. In this work, the in‐depth degradation mapping of field‐exposed polyamide‐based (PA‐based) PV module backsheets was studied, with the major focus on the identification of underlying drivers for the through cracking (in between the solar cells). PV modules were retrieved from five different locations, comprising a variety of climates, including humid subtropical, hot‐summer Mediterranean, tropical savanna climate, and hot arid. A suite of microscale cross‐sectional characterizations, including chemical changes, fluorescence intensity, and modulus as a function of distance from the air surface of the backsheet, was performed. Results showed more advanced signs of degradation of the inner layer than the outer layer in the cracking region. Increases in the modulus were identified as the major indicator for the cracking. Moreover, a rudimentary test by immersion in acetic acid, which forms during photodegradation of the ethylene‐vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA) encapsulant, showed the first‐time direct evidence that acetic acid can largely accelerate the chemical degradation and facilitate the cracking of PA inner layer. This study suggests that the field cracking of PA‐based backsheet can be attributed to the combined effects of chemical degradation and physical reorganization (chemi‐crystallization) under cyclic thermomechanical stresses. Therefore, it is important to consider effects of local microclimates and interlayer infection to understand the heterogeneous nature of backsheet failures.
Identification of genes involved in male sterility in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) which could be used in a genic hybrid breeding system
Authors: Milner Matthew J. , Craze Melanie , Bowden Sarah , Bates Ruth , Wallington Emma J. , Keeling Anthony
Published: March 2020

Wheat is grown on more land than any other crop in the world. Current estimates suggest that yields will have to increase sixty percent by 2050 to meet the demand of an ever‐increasing human population; however, recent wheat yield gains have lagged behind other major crops such as rice and maize. One of the reasons suggested for the lag in yield potential is the lack of a robust hybrid system to harness the potential yield gains associated with heterosis, also known as hybrid vigor. Here, we set out to identify candidate genes for a genic hybrid system in wheat and characterize their function in wheat using RNASeq on stamens and carpels undergoing meiosis. Twelve genes were identified as potentially playing a role in pollen viability. CalS5‐ and RPG1‐like genes were identified as pre‐ and post‐meiotic genes for further characterization and to determine their role in pollen viability. It appears that all three homoeologues of both CalS5 and RPG1 are functional in wheat as all three homoeologues need to be knocked out in order to cause male sterility. However, one functional homoeologue is sufficient to maintain male fertility in wheat.