bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantification of Cytoskeletal Dynamics in Time‐Lapse Recordings
Authors: Schneider René , Sampathkumar Arun , Persson Staffan
Published: May 2019

The cytoskeleton is key to many essential processes in a plant cell, e.g., growth, division, and defense. Contrary to what “skeleton” implies, the cytoskeleton is highly dynamic, and is able to re‐organize itself continuously. The advent of live‐cell microscopy and the development of genetically encoded fluorophores enabled detailed observation of the organization and dynamics of the cytoskeleton. Despite the biological importance of the cytoskeletal dynamics, quantitative analyses remain laborious endeavors that only a handful of research teams regularly conduct. With this protocol, we provide a standardized step‐by‐step guide to analyze the dynamics of microtubules. We provide example data and code for post‐processing in Fiji that enables researchers to modify and adapt the routine to their needs. More such tools are needed to quantitatively assess the cytoskeleton and thus to better understand cell biology. © 2019 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Nivolumab Clearance Is Stationary in Patients With Resected Melanoma on Adjuvant Therapy: Implications of Disease Status on Time‐Varying Clearance
Authors: Hamuro Lora , Statkevich Paul , Bello Akintunde , Roy Amit , Bajaj Gaurav
Published: May 2019

Nivolumab clearance (CL) in patients with advanced melanoma (MEL) decreases over the treatment duration, with change in CL associated with improved disease status, measured by reduced tumor burden. Here, we characterize the pharmacokinetics of nivolumab administered as adjuvant therapy for patients with MEL (AdjMEL) whose tumors were removed by surgical resection. A population pharmacokinetic model was developed using data from 1,773 patients with AdjMEL, MEL, non‐small cell lung cancer, and other solid tumors who received nivolumab over a dose range of 0.1–20 mg/kg every 2 weeks. In patients with AdjMEL, the geometric mean nivolumab CL of 6.0 mL/hour was 40% lower at baseline and did not vary with time and 20% lower at steady state compared with patients with MEL. Lower nivolumab CL in patients with AdjMEL and absence of time dependence support the hypothesis that changes in nivolumab CL in the metastatic setting are associated with disease status after treatment.
Plant invasion alters trait composition and diversity across habitats
Authors: Sodhi Darwin S. , Livingstone Stuart W. , Carboni Marta , Cadotte Marc W.
Published: May 2019

Increased globalization has accelerated the movement of species around the world. Many of these nonnative species have the potential to profoundly alter ecosystems. The mechanisms underpinning this impact are often poorly understood, and traits are often overlooked when trying to understand and predict the impacts of species invasions on communities. We conducted an observational field experiment in Canada's first National Urban Park, where we collected trait data for seven different functional traits (height, stem width, specific leaf area, leaf percent nitrogen, and leaf percent carbon) across an abundance gradient of the invasiveVincetoxicum rossicumin open meadow and understory habitats. We assessed invasion impacts on communities, and associated mechanisms, by examining three complementary functional trait measures: community‐weighted mean, range of trait values, and species’ distances to the invader in trait space. We found thatV. rossicuminvasion significantly altered the functional structure of herbaceous plant communities. In both habitatsV. rossicumchanged the community‐weighted means, causing invaded communities to become increasingly similar in their functional structure. In addition,V. rossicumalso reduced the trait ranges for a majority of traits indicating that species are being deterministically excluded in invaded communities. Further, we observed different trends in the meadow and understory habitats: In the understory, resident species that were more similar toV. rossicumin multivariate trait space were excluded more, however this was not the case in the meadow habitat. This suggests thatV. rossicumalters communities uniquely in each habitat, in part by creating a filter in which only certain resident species are able to persist. This filtering process causes a nonrandom reduction in species' abundances, which in turn would be expected to alter how the invaded ecosystems function. Using trait‐based frameworks leads to better understanding and prediction of invasion impacts. This novel framework can also be used in restoration practices to understand how invasion impacts communities and to reassemble communities after invasive species management.
Modelling the possible impacts of climate change on the thermal regime and macroinvertebrate species of a regulated prairie river
Authors: Carr Meghan , Li Lin , Sadeghian Amir , Phillips Iain David , Lindenschmidt Karl‐Erich
Published: May 2019

The thermal regime is a key consideration for instream flow management as the ecological integrity of river ecosystems relies on the natural dynamics of temperature range and spatiotemporal characteristics. Climate change can alter thermal regimes and influence water temperatures. This study aims to investigate probable impacts of climate change (predicted changes in meteorological forcing variables) on the thermal regime and macroinvertebrate species of a regulated prairie river. A 2D laterally averaged CE‐QUAL‐W2 hydrodynamic thermal lake model for Lake Diefenbaker was coupled with a Water Quality Analysis Simulation Program Version 7 (WASP7) river temperature model and applied to the lower South Saskatchewan River in Canada. Three decades, 2001–2010, 2041–2050, and 2081–2090, were modelled using atmospheric forcing data (relative humidity, dew point, daily mean near‐surface wind velocity, near‐surface air temperature, total cloud fraction, and surface air pressure) from the Canadian Centre for Climate Modelling and Analysis experiments (CORDEX). To estimate future climate change impacts on the resident macroinvertebrate species, the known temperature tolerances of various macroinvertebrate species were compared with modelled temperature regimes. The WASP model calibration (2011–2012) and validation (2013) outputs produced an acceptable visual fit, whereby predicted values overlap sampled values, to observed water temperatures at Clarkboro and Muskoday sample sites. Major effects on the thermal regime were simulated due to the increase in water temperature induced by Gardiner Dam, which in turn indicated a possible effect on macroinvertebrate species. Gardiner Dam was also shown to be highly sensitive to inflow variations as well as to temperature changes. These findings contribute to the understanding of how future climate‐induced river water temperature changes may influence macroinvertebrate species in temperate river systems. This valuable information can inform further laboratory studies of temperature impacts on current macroinvertebrate communities and the development of future mitigation strategies.
Thermal abiotic emission of CO2 and CH4 from leaf litter and its significance in a photodegradation assessment
Authors: Day Thomas A. , Bliss Michael S. , Placek Sarah K. , Tomes Alexander R. , Guénon René
Published: May 2019

Photodegradation has been recognized as a significant driver of plant litter decomposition in drylands. Another potential driver is the thermal emission of trace gases that occurs in the absence of solar radiation and microbial activity. Most field assessments documenting photodegradation have employed filters that absorb solar radiation, along with transparent filter controls; faster litter decay under transparent filters is taken as evidence of photodegradation. However, the temperature of litter under transparent filters is often higher, and its faster decay might conceivably stem from greater thermal emission, rather than photodegradation. If true, the growing consensus that photodegradation is a significant driver of litter decay needs rethinking. We assessed the contribution of thermal emission of CO2 and CH4 to the C loss of 12 litter types over a 34‐month photodegradation study in the Sonoran Desert by quantifying thermal emission responses and using field litter temperatures to estimate emissions. Emission of both gases from litter increased exponentially with temperature. Emission of CO2 was much greater than CH4, but their rates were strongly correlated. Concentrations of surface waxes and dissolved organic C in litter were strong predictors of emission of both gases. Emission declined from dried green leaves to naturally senesced litter, and as litter decayed. Diurnal litter temperature averaged 39.8°C under transparent filters over the field experiment and averaged 1.7°C higher than that of litter under filters that absorbed UV through blue solar wavelengths. Through all mechanisms, litter lost an average of 77.8% of its original C under transparent filters and 60.8% under filters that absorbed UV through blue wavelengths. However, thermal emission of these gases accounted for only 0.8% of the original C in litter under transparent filters and 1.0% under filters that absorbed UV through blue wavelengths, corresponding to only 1.2% and 2.0% of the total C lost from litter. While litter temperatures were higher under transparent filters, thermal emission losses from this litter were lower because emission from this litter declined faster with decay. We conclude that thermal abiotic emission was a minor C loss pathway and that photodegradation was responsible for the faster decay of litter in sunlight.
Testing Novel Nickel and Cobalt Infiltrated STN Anodes for Carbon Tolerance using In Situ Raman Spectroscopy and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy
Authors: Drasbæk D. B. , Traulsen M. L. , Walker R. A. , Holtappels P.
Published: May 2019

Conventional SOFCs use Nickel Yttria‐doped Zirconia cermet anodes, which are susceptible to degradation due to coking when operating with carbon containing fuels. Raman spectroscopy is a powerful tool for investigating surface chemistry and, when combined with electrochemical impedance spectroscopy under in situ conditions, the technique can report the real‐time material composition of the electrode during the EIS measurements. Studies described in this work used in situ Raman spectroscopy and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy to examine the carbon tolerance of novel ceramic anode materials comprised of niobium doped strontium titanate infiltrated with nickel or cobalt nanoparticles. The susceptibility of these electrodes to coking were tested with CO/CO2 mixtures and pure methane at 850 °C. Data show that nickel‐infiltrated STN electrodes are still prone to coking from methane. In contrast to STN electrodes infiltrated with nickel, cobalt‐infiltrated STN electrodes showed no susceptibility to carbon deposition during methane exposure within the detection limit of the Raman measurements. Neither anode showed evidence of coking from the CO/CO2 mixtures. Coking correlated closely with changes in EIS measurements, with the most noticeable effects appearing in the low frequency part of the spectrum. Ex situ SEM analysis of samples before and after operation illustrates the growth of the nanoparticles.
Promotion of PTEN on apoptosis through PI3K/Akt signal in vascular smooth muscle cells of mice model of coronary heart disease
Authors: Wang Sheng , Cheng Zhaoyun , Chen Xianjie
Published: May 2019

Previous studies have shown that phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) are key regulators of the development of many malignant tumors and other diseases. However, its regulatory effect on coronary heart disease (CHD) has rarely been reported. Therefore, the regulatory effect of PTEN on the survival and cell death of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) in CHD mice was elucidated in this study. It was found that the protein and messenger RNA expressions of PTEN in VSMCs of 10 CHD mice were lower than those of normal mice. Then PTEN was overexpressed in VSMCs. It was suggested that the upregulation of PTEN was not conducive to the proliferation and survival of VSMCs in the 3‐(4,5‐Dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) and colony formation assay. The flow cytometry (Annexin V‐Fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)/propidium iodide) and the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling assay were used to detect the apoptotic rate of overexpressing PTEN cells. Some data showed that the expression of PTEN could lead to increased apoptotic rate. It was shown that antiapoptotic Bcl‐2 levels were decreased, but cleaved caspase‐3 and proapoptotic Bax levels were promoted by SIRT6 overexpression in Western blot analysis. Moreover, PI3K/Akt expression and phosphorylation were significantly decreased in cells expressing PTEN. Recovery of PI3K expression inhibited the suppressive influence of PTEN on VSMC survival, as evidenced by the activated PI3K/Akt pathway, increased cell proliferative rate, reduced the apoptotic level, and reversed expression patterns of Bcl‐2 and Bax. Therefore, the findings in this study provide a new idea on the occurrence and development mechanism of CHD and may promote the discovery of innovative therapies.
LncRNA NEAT1 promotes hypoxia‐induced renal tubular epithelial apoptosis through downregulating miR‐27a‐3p
Authors: Jiang Xinxin , Li Daoting , Shen Wei , Shen Xiaogang , Liu Yueming
Published: May 2019

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common kidney disorder that affects public health and the incidence of AKI. Sepsis, acute ischemia or hypoxia is the main reason for the occurrence of AKI. Recently, noncoding RNA that include microRNA and long noncoding RNA (lncRNAs) were reported to play important roles in AKI as well as have the potential to serve as a biomarker or therapeutic target for the development of the diagnostic and prognostic strategies of AKI. In the current study, we aimed to investigate the expression and biological function of lncRNA nuclear enriched abundant transcript 1 (NEAT1) in ischemia‐induced AKI in patients' sample and in vitro. The expressions of NEAT1 and miR‐27a‐3p in ischemia/reperfusion‐induced AKI patients were examined by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Cell injury was induced by treatment of human kidney tubular cells (HK‐2) with CoCl2. After treatment, the influences of NEAT1 and miR‐27a‐3p on the cell apoptosis in the CoCl2‐stimulated HK‐2 were tested by flow cytometry. The flow analysis results showed that the expression of NEAT1 was markedly higher in the ischemia‐induced AKI patients compared with normal control. Moreover, repression the expression of NEAT1 decreased CoCl2‐induced injury in HK‐2. The expression of miR‐27a‐3p was negatively regulated by NEAT1. Inhibition the expression of NEAT1 attenuated overexpression of miR‐27a‐3p enhanced CoCl2‐induced injury. In summary, an ischemia‐induced injury may be enhanced by a high level of NEAT1 through targeting miR‐27a‐3p. Thus, NEAT1 has the potential to be explored as a biomarker for diagnosis and target for therapeutic strategies in ischemia‐induced AKI.
Association of peripheral blood neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin levels with bone marrow neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin levels and neutrophil count in hematologic malignancy
Authors: Cho Chi‐Hyun , Yoon Jung , Kim Deok‐Su , Kim Shin‐Jong , Sung Hwa Jung , Lee Se Ryeon
Published: May 2019

Background

Although neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin (NGAL) is a biomarker for acute kidney injury, recently, high NGAL levels have been reported in hematologic malignancies. Given the mechanism underlying NGAL synthesis and secretion in neutrophilic series, it is speculated that NGAL levels are higher in bone marrow (BM) than in peripheral blood (PB). Additionally, PB NGAL levels are thought to be associated with neutrophilic parameters. We aimed to test both hypotheses in hematologic malignancies.

Methods

Paired BM and PB samples were collected from 41 patients undergoing BM examination for hematologic malignancies. NGAL levels were measured using immunoassays. Data on hematologic parameters were collected from medical records. Single and multiple regression analyses were performed to analyze the relationship.

Results

PB and BM NGAL (n = 41) levels were significantly different (163.0 ± 258.3 and 413.1 ± 616.2 ng/mL [mean ± standard deviation], respectively; P < 0.05). Simple regression analysis and multicollinearity assessment showed that BM NGAL levels, BM neutrophil%, and neutrophil count were significant predictors of PB NGAL. Two multiple regression models were developed (model 1, PB NGAL = 21.467* neutrophil count ‐ 0.785*BM neutrophil%; model 2, PB NGAL = 21.202*neutrophil count‐ 0.915*BM neutrophil% +0.10*BM NGAL). Akaike's information criterion and adjusted R2 values showed that model 1 had higher predictive accuracy for PB NGAL. In both models, neutrophil count was the only significant predictor.

Conclusion

BM NGAL was significantly higher than PB NGAL in hematologic malignancy. In addition, PB NGAL could be expressed as a multiple regression model including neutrophil count and BM neutrophil%, being significantly influenced by neutrophil count.
β2‐Adrenergic Receptor Gene Affects the Heart Rate Response of β‐Blockers: Evidence From 3 Clinical Studies
Authors: Shahin Mohamed H. , Rouby Nihal El , Conrado Daniela J. , Gonzalez Daniel , Gong Yan , Lobmeyer Maximilian T. , Beitelshees Amber L. , Boerwinkle Eric , Gums John G. , Chapman Arlene , Turner Stephen T. , Pepine Carl J. , Cooper‐DeHoff Rhonda M. , Johnson Julie A.
Published: May 2019

β‐Blockers’ heart rate (HR)‐lowering effect is an important determinant of the effectiveness for this class of drugs, yet it is variable among β‐blocker–treated patients. To date, genetic studies have revealed several genetic signals associated with HR response to β‐blockers. However, these genetic signals have not been consistently replicated across multiple independent cohorts. Here we sought to use data from 3 hypertension clinical trials to validate single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) previously associated with the HR response to β‐blockers. Using linear regression analysis, we investigated the effects of 6 SNPs in 3 genes, including ADRB1, ADRB2, and GNB3, relative to the HR response following β‐blocker used in the PEAR (n = 757), PEAR‐2 (n = 368), and INVEST (n = 1401) trials, adjusting for baseline HR, age, sex, and ancestry. Atenolol was used in PEAR and INVEST, and metoprolol was used in PEAR‐2. We found that rs1042714 and rs1042713 in ADRB2 were significantly associated with HR response to both β‐blockers in whites (rs1042714 C‐allele carriers, meta‐analysis β = –0.95 beats per minute [bpm], meta‐analysis P = 3×10–4; rs1042713 A‐allele carriers, meta‐analysis β = –1.15 bpm, meta‐analysis P = 2×10–3). In conclusion, the results of our analyses provide strong evidence to support the hypothesis that rs1042714 and rs1042713 in the ADRB2 gene are important predictors of HR response to cardioselective β‐blockade in hypertensive patient cohorts.
Fast enzymatic synthesis of n.c.a. 6‐[18F]fluorodopamine (FDA) from n.c.a. 6‐[18F]FDOPA and the fate of 6‐FDOPA and 6‐FDA in neuroblastoma and Caki‐1 cells after their uptake
Authors: Kuçi Zyrafete , Ehrlichmann Walter , Sauer Jörg , Handgretinger Rupert , Bruchelt Gernot , Reischl Gerald
Published: May 2019

The catecholamine analogue [123I]mIBG has been used for scintigraphic imaging of neuroblastoma since 1984. It is taken up by the noradrenaline transporter (NAT), which is present in most neuroblastoma cells. An alternative imaging method could be PET with 6‐[18F]fluorodopamine, which is also taken up by NAT, but—in contrast to mIBG—also by dopamine transporter (DAT), present in neuroblastoma cells (NAT > DAT). An enzymatic method was established allowing a rapid, quantitative transformation of FDOPA to FDA by DOPA decarboxylase within 25 minutes. This strategy was applied to [18F]FDOPA, which was produced via nucleophilic synthesis (RCY 15%, 10 GBq, 50 GBq/μmol) and subsequently converted to [18F]FDA (RCY 35%‐50%, n = 5). Uptake and metabolism of FDOPA and FDA were analyzed in human Kelly and SK‐N‐SH neuroblastoma cell lines and in human Caki‐1 kidney cells that can take up catecholamines and mIBG via an organic cation transporter (OCT). FDOPA and FDA were taken up by all three cells, but FDOPA could only be converted to FDA in neuroblastoma cells. As today, [18F]FDOPA is well available in high yields, efficient enzymatic conversion to [18F]FDA to be used for NAT/DAT PET imaging in neuroendocrine tumors is an attractive, alternative synthesis route.
Hyperbranched Multicyclic Polymer Built from Tailored Multifunctional Monocyclic Prepolymer
Authors: Liu Chao , Xu Wen , Zhang Hua‐Long , Pan Cai‐Yuan , Hong Chun‐Yan
Published: May 2019

A simple and efficient method to construct a hyperbranched multicyclic polymer is introduced. First, a tailored trithiocarbonate with two terminal anthracene units and three azide groups is successfully synthesized, and this multifunctional trithiocarbonate is used as chain transfer agent (CTA) to afford anthracene‐telechelic polystyrene (PS) via reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization. After that, linear PS is irradiated under 365 nm UV light to achieve the cyclization process. The monocyclic polymer further reacts with sym‐dibenzo‐1,5‐cyclooctadiene‐3,7‐diyne via “A2+B3” strategy based on a self‐accelerating click reaction to produce hyperbranched multicyclic polymer. The structures and properties of the polymers are characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), gel permeation chromatography (GPC), UV–vis spectrophotometry, and triple‐detection size‐exclusion chromatography (TD‐SEC). The number of monocyclic units of the resultant hyperbranched multicyclic polymer reaches about 21 based on multi‐angle laser light scattering (MALLS) measurements. The plot of intrinsic viscosity versus molecular weight reveals that the α value of the unique hyperbranched multicyclic polymer is lower than both hyperbranched polymers and cyclic polymers.
Duopoly, mixed ownership, and the optimal proportion of employee stocks in state‐owned enterprises in China
Authors: Chen Junlong , Wang Mudi , Gao Yaxin , Long Yuncheng
Published: May 2019

We examine the optimal proportion of employee stocks in two kinds of duopoly markets: The first market includes two mixed‐ownership state‐owned enterprises (SOEs), and the second market includes one mixed‐ownership SOE and one private enterprise. We introduce the particularities of employee stock ownership plans in SOEs in China to the subjective function and cost function. We find that partial holding, full holding, or non‐holding can be optimal, and the optimal proportion depends on the types of rival firms, the efficiency gap in different kinds of shares, and employee behavioral tendencies. Moreover, the optimal proportion of employee stocks is subject to external institutional environment.
Wave reflection and cut‐off frequencies in coupled FE‐peridynamic grids
Authors: Giannakeas Ilias N. , Papathanasiou Theodosios K. , Bahai Hamid
Published: May 2019

Reflections are typically observed when pulses propagate across interfaces. Accordingly, spurious reflections might occur at the interfaces between different models used to simulate the same medium. Examples of such coupled models include classical continuum descriptions with molecular dynamics or peridynamic (PD) grids. In this work, three different coupling approaches are implemented to couple bond‐based PDs with finite element (FE) solvers for solid mechanics. It is observed that incorporation of an overlapping zone, over which the coupling between FE and PD occurs, can lead to minimization of the reflected energy compared to a standard force coupling at the FE domain/PD grid interface. However, coupling with other existing methodologies, like the addition of ghost particles, achieves comparable accuracy at lower computational cost. Furthermore, the prudent selection of the discretization parameters is of pivotal importance as they control the high frequency cut‐off limit. Mismatch between the cut‐off frequencies of the different descriptions can lead to unrealistic results.
Synthesis of CeO2‐loaded titania nanotubes and its effect on the flame retardant property of epoxy resin
Authors: Zhang Zinan , Pan Haifeng , Ma Wenbin , Liang Jieli , Shen Qi , Zhu Qing , Yang Xuefeng
Published: May 2019

A series of CeO2‐loaded titania nanotubes (CeO2‐TNTs) hybrid materials with different CeO2 loadings were synthesized by co‐precipitation method and then incorporated into epoxy resin (EP) to prepare CeO2‐TNTs flame‐retardant epoxy nanocomposites. Structure and morphology characterization indicated the successful synthesis of CeO2‐TNTs. The effect of CeO2‐TNTs with different CeO2 loading capacity on the flame retardance of EP was compared and analyzed by the thermogravimetric analysis, Cone and Raman. The results showed that CeO2 loading could increase the carbon residue of nanocomposites, reduce the peak heat release rate (PHRR) and total heat release (THR), and improve the fire safety of EP. The residual carbon content of EP/0.1CeO2‐TNTs sample at 700°C reached 19.8% with the lowest degradation rate, and the PHRR and THR were reduced to 680 kW/m2 and 32.9 MJ/m2, respectively. Such a significant improvement in flame‐retardant properties for EP could be attributed to the protective effect of CeO2‐TNTs.
Optimal Electrospun TiO2 Nanofiber Photocatalytic Performance via Synergistic Morphology and Particle Crystallinity with Anatase/Rutile Phase Tuning
Authors: Soo Joshua Zheyan , Lee Kian Mun , Ang Bee Chin , Ong Boon Hoong
Published: May 2019

TiO2 nanofiber photocatalysts offer a highly efficient and stable method of dye degradation through photogenerated radicals. Through electrospinning, the synthesis of the nanofibers with high surface area (i.e., low fiber diameter) and particle crystallinity (e.g., crystallite size and crystal phases) is highly desired to yield the best degradation performance. In this study, it is demonstrated that a synergistic combination of low fiber diameter, high crystallite size, and mixed anatase/rutile ratio is obtained to yield an optimal methylene blue degradation rate constant of 0.04100 min−1. The optimization is conducted with the aid of response surface analysis of electrospinning parameters (flow rate, applied voltage, and tip‐to‐collector distance (TCD)) toward the obtained fiber diameter response. The nanofiber diameter is observed to be from 177.3 to 310.4 nm across the studied range of parameters. The change in nanofiber diameter exhibits linear relationship with the applied voltage while quadratic relationships are observed for both solution flow rate and TCD. Through selective comparison, the lowering of fiber diameter has an adverse effect on the crystallinity and phase transformation (anatase‐rutile) of TiO2 particles. This relationship is shown to have a significant effect on the photocatalytic performance of the TiO2 nanofibers.
Electrochemical and Optical Properties of Lithium Ion Conducting LiPSON Solid Electrolyte Films
Authors: Michel Fabian , Kuhl Florian , Becker Martin , Janek Juergen , Polity Angelika
Published: May 2019

Lithium phosphorous sulfuric oxynitrides (LiPSON) with different compositions have been prepared by rf‐sputtering using sputter targets with various mixtures of Li3PO4 and Li2SO4. Morphology, composition, and electrochromic properties of the fabricated thin films were investigated using solid state analysis methods like scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), optical transmission spectroscopy, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The composition of the thin films changes due to the varying fractions of process gases. The highest fraction of sulfur is about 1.3 at% validated using XPS. The optical bandgap shifts in the range of 3.7 eV up to 5.3 eV for the different fractions of process gases. Transmission in the UV range is above 60% for most of the sputtered solid electrolyte thin films whereas in the visible range of the electromagnetic spectrum a transmission above 80% is observed. The highest ionic conductivity is identified for the thin films with 4 sccm nitrogen and no additional argon as process gas. However, ionic conductivity is expected to increase with increasing sulfur content and with change of the ratio between different nitrogen coordinations.
Recent Advances in Quantum Effects of 2D Materials
Authors: Yi Ya , Chen Zhanxu , Yu Xue‐Feng , Zhou Zhang‐Kai , Li Jia
Published: May 2019

The celebrated discovery of graphene has spurred tremendous research interest in two‐dimensional layered materials (2DLMs) with unique attributes in the quantum regime. In 2DLMs, each layer is composed of a covalently bonded lattice and is weakly coupled to its neighboring layers by van der Waals interactions. There are abundant members in this 2DLM family beyond graphene, such as transition metal dichalcogenides (MX2, M = Mo, W; X = S, Se, Te), semimetal chalcogenide (InSe), black phosphorus, etc. The 2DLMs afford rich and ideal material platforms for studying quantum effects and their corresponding applications in the two‐dimensional (2D) limit. In this review, the emerging quantum effects in 2DLMs are examined with particular focus on their band structure evolvement, valleytronics, and quantum Hall/quantum spin Hall effects. Based on the summary of quantum effects discovered in 2DLMs, the future research directions and prospective applications are also discussed.
Sexual health experiences, knowledge and understanding in low SES female teenagers: A diary approach
Authors: McKellar Kerry , Sillence Elizabeth , Smith Michael A.
Published: May 2019

Introduction

Understanding how teenagers think about sexual health and assessing the ways in which they engage with sexual health information are important issues in the development of appropriate sexual health education programmes. Sexual health education programs in the UK are inconsistent and is not possible to assume that teenagers' information needs are being met by such programs. Teenagers often feel uncomfortable discussing sexual health making it difficult to assess teenagers' understanding and engagement with the topic.

Methods

we used qualitative diaries to explore how thoughts about and exposure to sexual health information features in teenagers' day‐to‐day lives. Thirty‐three low SES female teenagers aged 13 and 14 from schools in the UK kept a daily note of any sexual health related thoughts and feelings, and any sexual health information they encountered.

Results & conclusions

Thematic analysis indicated three themes (1) Knowledge gaps and a desire for factual information (2) The social and emotional context of sexual health and (3) limited access to reliable information. Teenagers showed poor understanding of the biological aspects of sexual health and were concerned about the social and emotional context of sexual health. The teenagers' did not actively seek out sexual health information and access to information resources was limited. Although teenagers showed gaps in their knowledge they were curious about sexual health and were open to receiving sexual health information. Being aware of the ways that low SES female teenagers are thinking about sexual health is useful in developing education programs and other resources that will help fill gaps in knowledge and understanding.
A Comparison of Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy Vs Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for the Treatment of Provoked Vestibulodynia in a Hospital Clinic Setting
Authors: Brotto Lori A. , Bergeron Sophie , Zdaniuk Bozena , Driscoll Miriam , Grabovac Andrea , Sadownik Leslie A. , Smith Kelly B. , Basson Rosemary
Published: May 2019

Introduction

Chronic and distressing genito-pelvic pain associated with vaginal penetration is most frequently due to provoked vestibulodynia (PVD). Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) significantly reduces genital pain intensity and improves psychological and sexual well-being. In general chronic pain populations, mindfulness-based approaches may be as effective for improving pain intensity as CBT.

Aim

To compare mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) with CBT in the treatment of PVD.

Methods

To ensure power of 0.95 to find medium effect size or larger in this longitudinal design, we enrolled 130 participants. Of these, 63 were assigned to CBT (mean age 31.2 years), and 67 to MBCT (mean age 33.7 years). Data from all participants who completed baseline measures were analyzed, with intent-to-treat analyses controlling for years since diagnosis.

Main Outcome Measures

Our primary outcome was self-reported pain during vaginal penetration at immediate post-treatment and at 6 months’ follow-up. Secondary endpoints included pain ratings with a vulvalgesiometer, pain catastrophizing, pain hypervigilance, pain acceptance, sexual function, and sexual distress.

Results

There was a significant interaction between group and time for self-reported pain, such that improvements with MBCT were greater than those with CBT. For all other endpoints, both groups led to similar significant improvements, and benefits were maintained at 6 months.

Clinical Implications

Mindfulness is a promising approach to improving self-reported pain from vaginal penetration and is as effective as CBT for several psychological endpoints.

Strength & Limitations

A strength of the present study was the robust sample size (n = 130 women) who had received confirmed clinical diagnoses of PVD.

Conclusion

The present study showed mindfulness to be as effective for most pain- and sexuality-related endpoints in the treatment of PVD.
Interventions to reduce emergency department door-to- electrocardiogram times: A systematic review
Authors: Chhabra Shawn , Eagles Debra , Kwok Edmund S.H. , Perry Jeffrey J
Published: May 2019

Objectives

We sought to identify emergency department interventions that lead to improvement in door-to-electrocardiogram (ECG) times for adults presenting with symptoms suggestive of acute coronary syndrome.

Methods

Two reviewers searched Medline, Embase, CINAHL, and Cochrane CENTRAL from inception to April 2018 for studies in adult emergency departments with an identifiable intervention to reduce median door-to-ECG times when compared with the institution's baseline. Quality was assessed using the Quality Improvement Minimum Quality Criteria Set critical appraisal tool. The primary outcome was the absolute median reduction in door-to-ECG times as calculated by the difference between the post-intervention time and pre-intervention time.

Results

Two reviewers identified 809 unique articles, yielding 11 before-after quality improvement studies that met eligibility criteria (N = 15,622 patients). The majority of studies (10/11) reported bundled interventions, and most (10/11) showed statistical improvement in door-to-ECG times. The most common interventions were having a dedicated ECG machine and technician in triage (5/11); improved triage education (4/11); improved triage disposition (2/11); and data feedback mechanisms (2/11).

Conclusions

There are multiple interventions that show potential for reducing emergency department door-to-ECG times. Effective bundled interventions include having a dedicated ECG technician, triage education, and better triage disposition. These changes can help institutions attain best practice guidelines. Emergency departments must first understand their local context before adopting any single or group of interventions.
‘Home Thoughts from Abroad’: Rome to York in 1452
Authors: Walker Simon
Published: May 2019

Private correspondence between Rome and England in the fifteenth century is not unknown but is usually to be found among the business papers of proctors permanently resident at the Curia, such as William Swan and Thomas Hope. By contrast, the three letters printed below were written by an occasional visitor to Rome, charged with a specific errand. They tell us more about England than Italy, and more about the everyday concerns of a moderately successful clerical careerist than the procedures of the papal court, but they are unusual and valuable precisely for that reason. The author of these letters was Master Robert Thornton. A canon lawyer in the service of Archbishop Kempe, he began his career as an advocate in the prerogative court of York and, during the 1440s, established himself as one of the mainstays of the diocesan administration there: he acted as commissary-general to the court of York and official of the absentee archdeacon of York, besides serving on many ad hoc commissions. By the time these letters were written, Thornton's diligence in the archbishop's service had brought him several desirable benefices: already perpetual vicar of Silkstone (Yorkshire, West Riding), he became rector of Almondbury (Yorkshire, West Riding) in 1451 and was presented by William Bothe, Kempe'ssuccessor as archbishop, to a prebend at St. John's, Chester, in the following year. It was his membership of Kempe' familia that, indirectly, set him on the road to Rome. In May 1452 he was dispatched with a bundle of papers and sixteen marks in cash to pursue the claims of John Berningham, resident canon and treasurer of York, to the vacant deanery.
Intermediation in Private Equity: The Role of Placement Agents
Authors: Cain Matthew D. , McKeon Stephen B. , Solomon Steven Davidoff
Published: May 2019

Intermediation in private equity involves illiquid investments, professional investors, and high information asymmetry. We use this unique setting to empirically evaluate theoretical predictions regarding intermediation. Using placement agents has become nearly ubiquitous, but agents are associated with significantly lower abnormal returns in venture and real estate funds, consistent with investor capture and influence peddling. However, returns are higher for buyout funds employing a top-tier agent and for first-time real estate and venture funds employing an agent, and are less volatile for agent-affiliated funds, consistent with a certification role. Our results suggest heterogeneous motives for intermediation in the private equity industry.
People with schizophrenia show enhanced cognitive costs of maintaining a single item in working memory
Authors: Gold James M. , Bansal Sonia , Gaspar John M. , Chen Shuo , Robinson Benjamin M. , Hahn Britta , Luck Steven J.
Published: May 2019

Background

Working memory (WM) deficits are seen as a core deficit in schizophrenia, implicated in the broad cognitive impairment seen in the illness. Here we examine the impact of WM storage of a single item on the operation of other cognitive systems.

Methods

We studied 37 healthy controls (HCS) and 43 people with schizophrenia (PSZ). Each trial consisted of a sequence of two potential target stimuli, T1 and T2. T1 was a letter presented for 100 ms. After delays of 100–800 ms, T2 was presented. T2 was a 1 or a 2 and required a speeded response. In one condition, subjects were instructed to ignore T1 but respond to T2. In another condition, they were required to report T1 after making their speeded response to T2 (i.e. to make a speeded T2 response while holding T1 in WM).

Results

PSZ were dramatically slowed at responding to T2 when T1 was held in WM. A repeated measures ANOVA yielded main effects of group, delay, and condition with a group by condition interaction (p's < 0.001). Across delays, the slowing of the T2 response when required to hold T1 in memory, relative to ignoring T1, was nearly 3 times higher in PSZ than HCS (633 v. 219 ms).

Conclusions

Whereas previous studies have focused on reduced storage capacity, the present study found that PSZ are impaired at performing tasks while they are successfully maintaining a single item in WM. This may play a role in the broad cognitive impairment seen in PSZ.
Translocation of Glyphosate, Quizalofop, and Sucrose in Quackgrass (Elytrigia repens) Biotypes
Authors: Tardif François J. , Leroux Gilles D.
Published: May 2019

The translocation pattern and distribution in rhizomes of14C-glyphosate,14C-quizalofop, and14C-sucrose was examined in five quackgrass biotypes. Translocation of radioactivity in the different plant parts varied among biotypes. Translocation in the whole plant after treatment with the three14C-chemicals varied among biotypes but was not correlated with their tolerance to herbicides. Detailed analysis of distribution of radioactivity in the primary rhizome showed that more14C was found in the apical sections after treatment with14C-sucrose. A similar pattern was observed after14C-glyphosate application with all biotypes except one. Very low radioactivity was found in rhizomes after14C-quizalofop application, but a preferential accumulation in apical sections of the primary rhizome was detected in two biotypes. The tolerance of one biotype to glyphosate was explained by the absence of radioactivity accumulation in the apical sections of the rhizome.
Seed Germination Ecophysiology of Meadow Salsify (Tragopogon pratensis) and Western Salsify (T. dubius)
Authors: Qi Meiqin , Upadhyaya Mahesh K.
Published: May 2019

To understand persistence strategies of meadow and western salsify, ecophysiological characteristics of their seed germination were studied. Anaerobiosis (immersion in deoxygenated water) induced secondary dormancy in seeds of both species. Dormancy could be induced in 86% of meadow salsify seeds and in 65% of western salsify seeds by a 1-d anaerobiosis treatment. The induced dormancy was gradually released during storage of air-dried secondary dormant meadow salsify seeds, and the rate of this release was influenced by storage temperature; 30 C was more effective than 10 or 20 C in releasing secondary dormancy. These results suggest that the two species may rely on induced dormancy as an option in their persistence strategy. The optimum temperature for germination of nondormant seeds of both species was 15 C. Maximum germination percentages for both species were established within 4 to 6 d of incubation at 15 C and within 14 to 28 d of incubation at 25 C. Nondormant seeds did not germinate below 10 or above 30 C. Stratification (at 5 C for 2 to 10 wk) stimulated germination of secondary dormant seeds of meadow salsify. This stratification requirement can be important in preventing germination of dormant salsify seeds in the fall, thereby avoiding high seedling mortality in the winter. Light (red and far-red) had no effect on germination of seeds in secondary dormancy. In a separate study, seeds of both species were planted in pots at depths of 2 to 14 cm and seedling emergence was observed. Maximum emergence occurred when seeds were buried 2 cm deep. Seeds planted 8 cm or deeper germinated but did not emerge.
Growth Analysis of Mayweed Chamomile (Anthemis cotula) Interference in Peas (Pisum sativum)
Authors: Ogg Alex G. , Stephens Randall H. , Gealy David R.
Published: May 2019

Destructive growth analysis of field replacement series experiments with mayweed chamomile and dry field peas was used to determine the competitive relationship between the two species. Mayweed chamomile produced similar amounts of leaf area and dry weight per plant in a dry year and a wet year. On the other hand, dry field peas produced 20% more leaf area and 100% more dry weight per plant in the wet year compared to the dry year. Height, leaf area, and dry weight of peas reached maximum between bloom and pod-set, and then declined. Height and dry weight of mayweed chamomile increased steadily throughout the growing season. Mayweed chamomile leaf area reached a maximum at the beginning of flower stem elongation. Initially, the relative growth rate of mayweed chamomile was about three times greater than the rate for peas, but by 40 to 48 d after planting, rates were similar for both species. Relative yields and relative crowding coefficients for dry weight showed that peas were 3 to 20 times more aggressive than mayweed chamomile. Results of these experiments show that mayweed chamomile is a weak competitor against peas, but because it continues to grow after peas senesce, it could interfere with crop harvest.
Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius) Density and Row Spacing Effects on Competition with Green Foxtail (Setaria viridis)
Authors: Blackshaw Robert E.
Published: May 2019

Field experiments were conducted in 1990 and 1991 at Lethbridge, Alberta, to determine if narrower row spacings and increased plant densities than commonly practiced would improve safflower's competitive ability with weeds. A factorial set of treatments of safflower at two row spacings of 11 and 22 cm and six densities ranging from 10 to 192 plants m−2grown weed free or infested with green foxtail (Setaria viridis(L.) Beauv.). Decreasing safflower row spacing from 22 to 11 cm slightly improved competition with green foxtail, but increasing safflower density had a much greater effect. Weed-free safflower biomass and seed yield plateaued at 70 and 84 plants m−2in 1990 and 1991, respectively. However, safflower infested with 500 plants m−2of green foxtail increased in biomass and seed production up to 100 plants m−2in 1990 and 156 plants m−2in 1991. At these high densities, weedy safflower yielded less than weed-free safflower but three to four times more than achieved at lower stand densities. Concurrently, high safflower density reduced green foxtail biomass up to 72% and seed yield up to 85%. Dense safflower stands developed a closed canopy early in the season and shaded green foxtail more than thin stands.
Epicuticular Wax on Johnsongrass (Sorghum halepense) Leaves
Authors: Mcwhorter Chester G.
Published: May 2019

Studies were conducted to investigate the uniformity of epicuticular wax deposition on leaf blades of johnsongrass. Johnsongrass leaves grown under drought stress had greatly increased epicuticular wax weights compared to leaves from plants with adequate moisture, but relative humidity (95% vs. 40 ± 5%) had little effect on wax deposition. Wax weights decreased as leaves matured. Sections of lower leaf surfaces of young johnsongrass leaves tended to have more wax than sections of upper leaf surfaces, but weights were nearly equal on upper vs. lower leaf surfaces of older leaves. The narrow side of asymmetrical johnsongrass leaf blades often had more wax per unit area than the wide side. The area over the midvein contained more wax per unit area than either the narrow or wide side of the leaf blade. Greatest wax concentrations on individual leaves were over the midvein area near the leaf apex. Leaf blades of johnsongrass had more wax per unit area than leaves of corn or grain sorghum.
Rust-Infected Quackgrass (Elytrigia repens) Growth and Rhizome Bud Death after Glyphosate Application
Authors: Wallace Russell W. , Bellinder Robin R.
Published: May 2019

Photosynthesis decreased 32% in quackgrass infected with rust. Photoassimilate transport in rust-infected quackgrass, assessed by autoradiography, was less than that of control (no rust) leaves 35 min after exposure to14CO2. Greenhouse-grown quackgrass height, foliar and rhizome dry weights, rhizome length, and bud numbers decreased 11, 25, 28, 19, and 21% in rust-infected plants, respectively, compared to control plants. Foliar and rhizome biomass decreased 31 and 39%, respectively, in field-grown rust-infected plants. Rhizome bud death 48 h after treatment (HAT) in both control and rust-infected plants increased as glyphosate rate increased from 0.13 to 1 kg ae ha−1; however, control plant bud death was significantly greater than that of rust-infected plants.