bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultrafast Relaxation Dynamics and Nonlinear Response of Few‐Layer Niobium Carbide MXene
Authors: Gao Lingfeng , Chen Hualong , Zhang Feng , Mei Shan , Zhang Ye , Bao Wenli , Ma Chunyang , Yin Peng , Guo Jia , Jiang Xiantao , Xu Shixiang , Huang Weichun , Feng Xiaobo , Xu Fuming , Wei Songrui , Zhang Han
Published: May 2020

As one of the rising 2D materials, niobium‐carbide (Nb2C, well‐known as a member of MXene family) has attracted considerable attention owing to its unique physical and chemical properties. In this work, few‐layer Nb2C nanosheets (NSs) with large (≈255 nm) and small (≈48 nm) lateral dimensions are obtained via a combination of selective etching and liquid cascade centrifugation. Their relaxation time and photophysics process are systematically investigated by transient absorption spectroscopy, and the size effect is demonstrated by phonon‐bottleneck mechanism. Ultrafast fast relaxation time (37.43 fs) and slow relaxation time (0.5733 ps) are observed due to the symmetric structure and metallicity of Nb2C NSs. The nonlinear optical properties of Nb2C NSs are studied by Z‐scan technique, and both saturable absorption and reverse‐saturable absorption are observed. According to first principle calculations, these phenomena can be attributed to the special band structure of Nb2C near the Fermi level, where two‐photon absorption or multiphoton absorption may occur under the irradiation of long wavelength light. These intriguing results suggest that few‐layer Nb2C NSs can be used as building blocks for broadband ultrafast photonics and optoelectronic devices and also hold the potential for breakthrough developments in these fields.
Erratum to: Supermembranes and domain walls in $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 1, D = 4 SYM
Authors: Bandos Igor , Lanza Stefano , Sorokin Dmitri
Published: May 2020

In subsection 6.3 of the paper it has not been taken into account that the domain wall solutions for |k| = N found therein do not satisfy the non-negativity of the contribution to the domain wall tension of the energy density of the scalar field s(x).
An inflationary probe of cosmic Higgs switching
Authors: Fan JiJi , Reece Matthew , Wang Yi
Published: May 2020

Abstract

A scalar Higgs field can be repeatedly switched on and off when it couples to a classically oscillating scalar modulus field. The modulus flips the Higgs mass term between stable and tachyonic values. We study a cosmological scenario in which such repeated phase transitions occur during inflation. An irrelevant operator coupling the Higgs field to the inflaton can then imprint the pattern of phase transitions in the correlation functions of the inflaton. Using both numerical and analytic studies, we show that the inflaton 2-point function carries characteristic imprints of the modulus oscillation and its effect on the Higgs boson. We briefly remark on the potential observability of such patterns and how they might be distinguished from other dynamics in the early universe.
Light scalar production from Higgs bosons and FASER 2
Authors: Boiarska Iryna , Bondarenko Kyrylo , Boyarsky Alexey , Ovchynnikov Maksym , Ruchayskiy Oleg , Sokolenko Anastasia
Published: May 2020

Abstract

The most general renormalizable interaction between the Higgs sector and a new gauge-singlet scalar S is governed by two interaction terms: cubic and quartic. The quartic term is only loosely constrained by invisible Higgs decays and given current experimental limits about 10% of all Higgs bosons at the LHC can be converted to new scalars with masses up to m
Higgs
/2. By including this production channel, one significantly extends the reach of the LHC-based Intensity Frontier experiments. We analyze the sensitivity of the FASER experiment to this model and discuss modest changes in the FASER 2 design that would allow exploring an order-of-magnitude wider part of the Higgs portal’s parameter space.
Applications of radiomics and machine learning for radiotherapy of malignant brain tumors
Authors: Kocher Martin , Ruge Maximilian I. , Galldiks Norbert , Lohmann Philipp
Published: May 2020

Background

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and amino acid positron-emission tomography (PET) of the brain contain a vast amount of structural and functional information that can be analyzed by machine learning algorithms and radiomics for the use of radiotherapy in patients with malignant brain tumors.

Methods

This study is based on comprehensive literature research on machine learning and radiomics analyses in neuroimaging and their potential application for radiotherapy in patients with malignant glioma or brain metastases.

Results

Feature-based radiomics and deep learning-based machine learning methods can be used to improve brain tumor diagnostics and automate various steps of radiotherapy planning. In glioma patients, important applications are the determination of WHO grade and molecular markers for integrated diagnosis in patients not eligible for biopsy or resection, automatic image segmentation for target volume planning, prediction of the location of tumor recurrence, and differentiation of pseudoprogression from actual tumor progression. In patients with brain metastases, radiomics is applied for additional detection of smaller brain metastases, accurate segmentation of multiple larger metastases, prediction of local response after radiosurgery, and differentiation of radiation injury from local brain metastasis relapse. Importantly, high diagnostic accuracies of 80–90% can be achieved by most approaches, despite a large variety in terms of applied imaging techniques and computational methods.

Conclusion

Clinical application of automated image analyses based on radiomics and artificial intelligence has a great potential for improving radiotherapy in patients with malignant brain tumors. However, a common problem associated with these techniques is the large variability and the lack of standardization of the methods applied.
Bax inhibitor-1 deficiency leads to obesity by increasing Ca2+-dependent insulin secretion
Authors: Philippaert Koenraad , Roden Michael , Lisak Dmitrij , Bueno Diones , Jelenik Tomas , Radyushkin Konstantin , Schacht Teresa , Mesuere Margot , Wüllner Verena , Herrmann Ann-Kathrin , Baumgart Jan , Vennekens Rudi , Methner Axel
Published: May 2020

Transmembrane BAX inhibitor motif containing 6 (TMBIM6), also known as Bax inhibitor-1, is an evolutionarily conserved protein involved in endoplasmic reticulum (ER) function. TMBIM6 is an ER Ca2+ leak channel and its deficiency enhances susceptibility to ER stress due to inhibition of the ER stress sensor IRE1α. It was previously shown that TMBIM6 overexpression improves glucose metabolism and that TMBIM6 knockout mice develop obesity. We here examined the metabolic alterations underlying the obese phenotype and subjected TMBIM6 knockout mice to indirect calorimetry and euglycemic-hyperinsulinemic tests with stable isotope dilution to gauge tissue-specific insulin sensitivity. This demonstrated no changes in heat production, food intake, activity or hepatic and peripheral insulin sensitivity. TMBIM6 knockout mice, however, featured a higher glucose-stimulated insulin secretion in vivo as assessed by the hyperglycemic clamp test and hepatic steatosis. This coincided with profound changes in glucose-mediated Ca2+ regulation in isolated pancreatic β cells and increased levels of IRE1α levels but no differences in downstream effects of IRE1α like increased Xbp1 mRNA splicing or Ire1-dependent decay of insulin mRNA in the pancreas. We therefore conclude that lack of TMBIM6 does not affect insulin sensitivity but leads to hyperinsulinemia, which serves to explain the weight gain. TMBIM6-mediated metabolic alterations are mainly caused by its role as a Ca2+ release channel in the ER.

Key messages

TMBIM6−/− leads to obesity and hepatic steatosis.

Food intake and energy expenditure are not changed in TMBIM6−/− mice.

No changes in insulin resistance in TMBIM6−/− mice.

Increased insulin secretion caused by altered calcium dynamics in β cells.
Interrater-Reliabilität der kriteriengeleiteten Beurteilung der Schuldfähigkeit bei paraphilen Störungen
Authors: Dobbrunz S. , Brunner F. , Müller J. L. , Briken P.
Published: May 2020

Hintergrund

Für die Beurteilung der Schuldfähigkeit bei Sexualdelinquenz ist die Einschätzung des Schweregrades einer paraphilen Störung und der Steuerungsfähigkeit von besonderer Bedeutung. Etablierte Beurteilungskriterien sind unzureichend operationalisiert.

Ziel und Methoden

Vorhandene Kriterien sollen von Experten verschiedener Berufsgruppen hinsichtlich ihrer Reliabilität überprüft werden. Hierzu bewerteten 14 Experten die Kriterien zweier Kriterienkataloge anhand zweier Fallvignetten (siehe Electronic Supplementary Material).

Ergebnisse und Diskussion

Die Interrater-Reliabilität (IRR) bezogen auf die Kriterien von Briken und Müller [3, 4] war höher als die der bisher etablierten Kriterien von Boetticher et al. [2]. Die Auswertung der subjektiven Wichtigkeit der Kriterien beider Beurteilungsskalen zeigte, dass alle Kriterien als mindestens durchschnittlich ausschlaggebend bewertet wurden. Es kann daher zunächst sinnvoll sein, beide Kriterienkataloge für eine höhere Transparenz in den Beurteilungsprozess miteinzubeziehen und dieses Vorgehen in weiteren Studien zu untersuchen.
Optimal archgrids: a variational setting
Authors: Czubacki R. , Lewiński T.
Published: May 2020

The paper deals with the variational setting of the optimal archgrid construction. The archgrids, discovered by William Prager and George Rozvany in 1970s, are viewed here as tension-free and bending-free, uniformly stressed grid-shells forming vaults unevenly supported along the closed contour of the basis domain. The optimal archgrids are characterized by the least volume. The optimization problem of volume minimization is reduced to the pair of two auxiliary mutually dual problems, having mathematical structure similar to that known from the theory of optimal layout: the integrand of the auxiliary minimization problem is of linear growth, while the auxiliary maximization problem involves test functions subjected to mean-square slope conditions. The noted features of the variational setting governs the main properties of the archgrid shapes: they are vaults over a subregion of the basis domain being the effective domain of the minimizer of the auxiliary problem. Thus, the method is capable of cutting out the material domain from the design domain; this process is built in within the theory. Moreover, the present paper puts forward new methods of numerical construction of optimal archgrids and discusses their applicability ranges.
The Genetic Epidemiology of Joint Shape and the Development of Osteoarthritis
Authors: Wilkinson J. Mark , Zeggini Eleftheria
Published: May 2020

Congruent, low-friction relative movement between the articulating elements of a synovial joint is an essential pre-requisite for sustained, efficient, function. Where disorders of joint formation or maintenance exist, mechanical overloading and osteoarthritis (OA) follow. The heritable component of OA accounts for ~ 50% of susceptible risk. Although almost 100 genetic risk loci for OA have now been identified, and the epidemiological relationship between joint development, joint shape and osteoarthritis is well established, we still have only a limited understanding of the contribution that genetic variation makes to joint shape and how this modulates OA risk. In this article, a brief overview of synovial joint development and its genetic regulation is followed by a review of current knowledge on the genetic epidemiology of established joint shape disorders and common shape variation. A summary of current genetic epidemiology of OA is also given, together with current evidence on the genetic overlap between shape variation and OA. Finally, the established genetic risk loci for both joint shape and osteoarthritis are discussed.
Image quality evaluation of dual-layer spectral CT in comparison to single-layer CT in a reduced-dose setting
Authors: Do Thuy Duong , Rheinheimer Stephan , Kauczor Hans-Ulrich , Stiller Wolfram , Weber Tim , Skornitzke Stephan
Published: May 2020

Objectives

To quantitatively and qualitatively evaluate image quality in dual-layer CT (DLCT) compared to single-layer CT (SLCT) in the thorax, abdomen, and pelvis in a reduced-dose setting.

Methods

Intraindividual, retrospective comparisons were performed in 25 patients who received at least one acquisition of all three acquisition protocols SLCTlow (100 kVp), DLCThigh (120 kVp), and DLCTlow (120 kVp), all covering the venous-phase thorax, abdomen, and pelvis with matched CTDIvol between SLCTlow and DLCTlow. Reconstruction parameters were identical between all scans. Image quality was assessed quantitatively at 10 measurement locations in the thorax, abdomen, and pelvis by two independent observers, and subjectively with an intraindividual forced choice test between the three acquisitions. Dose-length product (DLP) and CTDIvol were extracted for dose comparison.

Results

Despite matched CTDIvol in acquisition protocols, CTDIvol and DLP were lower for SLCTlow compared to DLCTlow and DLCThigh (DLP 408.58, 444.68, 647.08 mGy·cm, respectively; p < 0.0004), as automated tube current modulation for DLCTlow reached the lower limit in the thorax (mean 66.1 mAs vs limit 65 mAs). Noise and CNR were comparable between SLCTlow and DLCTlow (p values, 0.29–0.51 and 0.05–0.20), but CT numbers were significantly higher for organs and vessels in the upper abdomen for SLCTlow compared to DLCTlow. DLCThigh had significantly better image quality (Noise and CNR). Subjective image quality was superior for DLCThigh, but no difference was found between SLCTlow and DLCTlow.

Conclusions

DLCTlow showed comparable image quality to SLCTlow, with the additional possibility of spectral post-processing. Further dose reduction seems possible by decreasing the lower limit of the tube current for the thorax.

Key Points

• Clinical use of reduced-dose DLCT is feasible despite the required higher tube potential.

• DLCT with reduced dose shows comparable objective and subjective image quality to reduced-dose SLCT.

• Further dose reduction in the thorax might be possible by adjusting mAs thresholds.
Optimizing diastolic pressure gradient assessment
Authors: Manouras Aristomenis , Johnson Jonas , Lund Lars H , Nagy Anikó Ilona
Published: May 2020

Aims

The diastolic pressure gradient (DPG) has been proposed as a marker pulmonary vascular disease in the setting of left heart failure (HF). However, its diagnostic utility is compromised by the high prevalence of physiologically incompatible negative values (DPGNEG) and the contradictory evidence on its prognostic value. Pressure pulsatility impacts on DPG measurements, thus conceivably, pulmonary artery wedge pressure (PAWP) measurements insusceptible to the oscillatory effect of the V-wave might yield a more reliable DPG assessment. We set out to investigate how the instantaneous PAWP at the trough of the Y-descent (PAWPY) influences the prevalence of DPGNEG and the prognostic value of the resultant DPGY.

Methods

Hundred and fifty-three consecutive HF patients referred for right heart catheterisation were enrolled prospectively. DPG, as currently recommended, was calculated. Subsequently, PAWPY was measured and the corresponding DPGY was calculated.

Results

DPGY yielded higher values (median, IQR: 3.2, 0.6–5.7 mmHg) than DPG (median, IQR: 0.9, − 1.7–3.8 mmHg); p < 0.001. Conventional DPG was negative in 45% of the patients whereas DPGY in only 15%. During follow-up (22 ± 14 months) 58 patients have undergone heart-transplantation or died. The predictive ability of DPGY ≥ 6 mmHg for the above defined end-point events was significant [HR 2.1; p = 0.007] and independent of resting mean pulmonary artery pressure (PAPM). In contrast, conventional DPG did not comprise significant prognostic value following adjustment for PAPM.

Conclusion

Instantaneous pressures at the trough of Y-descent yield significantly fewer DPGNEG than conventional DPG and entail superior prognostic value in HF patients with and without PH.

Graphic abstract
ELSA recommendations for minimally invasive surgery during a community spread pandemic: a centered approach in Asia from widespread to recovery phases
Authors: Shabbir Asim , Menon Raj K. , Somani Jyoti , So Jimmy B. Y. , Ozman Mahir , Chiu Philip W. Y. , Lomanto Davide
Published: May 2020

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in significant changes to surgical practice across the worlds. Some countries are seeing a tailing down of cases, while others are still having persistent and sustained community spread. These evolving disease patterns call for a customized and dynamic approach to the selection, screening, planning, and for the conduct of surgery for these patients.

Methods

The current literature and various international society guidelines were reviewed and a set of recommendations were drafted. These were circulated to the Governors of the Endoscopic and Laparoscopic Surgeons of Asia (ELSA) for expert comments and discussion. The results of these were compiled and are presented in this paper.

Results

The recommendations include guidance for selection and screening of patients in times of active community spread, limited community spread, during times of sporadic cases or recovery and the transition between phases. Personal protective equipment requirements are also reviewed for each phase as minimum requirements. Capability management for the re-opening of services is also discussed. The choice between open and laparoscopic surgery is patient based, and the relative advantages of laparoscopic surgery with regard to complications, and respiratory recovery after major surgery has to be weighed against the lack of safety data for laparoscopic surgery in COVID-19 positive patients. We provide recommendations on the operating room set up and conduct of general surgery. If laparoscopic surgery is to be performed, we describe circuit modifications to assist in reducing plume generation and aerosolization.

Conclusion

The COVID-19 pandemic requires every surgical unit to have clear guidelines to ensure both patient and staff safety. These guidelines may assist in providing guidance to units developing their own protocols. A judicious approach must be adopted as surgical units look to re-open services as the pandemic evolves.
Die Mediterranisierung der Stadtnacht. Das Beispiel Osnabrück
Authors: Schäfer Laura
Published: May 2020

Die Mediterranisierung des öffentlichen Raumes beschreibt die Ausbreitung von Außengastronomie in öffentlichen Räumen sowohl aus räumlicher als auch zeitlicher Perspektive. Diese Entwicklung eröffnet ein neues Themenfeld für die Planungspraxis von Großstädten – die Mediterranisierung der Stadtnacht. Der Beitrag untersucht die Anforderungen der Akteure der Außengastronomie an den öffentlichen Raum, aufbauend auf der Analyse der raumzeitlichen Strukturen sowie Akteursstrukturen am Fallbeispiel Innenstadt Osnabrück. Der Beitrag basiert auf einer Kartierung der Außengastronomie, qualitativen Interviews und einer quantitativen Befragung der Besuchenden der Außengastronomie. Es zeigt sich eine Ballung außengastronomischer Angebote in 2 Quartieren der nördlichen Innenstadt, welche durch unterschiedliche Rahmenbedingungen geprägt sind. Die ermittelten Akteure unterscheiden sich stark in ihrem Handlungsrahmen und im Grad ihrer Vernetzung. Im Ergebnis werden Handlungsfelder für die Planungspraxis ermittelt. Optimierungsbedarf zeigt sich v. a. im Bereich der Verkehrsinfrastruktur und Aufenthaltsqualität sowie in der Kommunikation und strategischen Ausrichtung.
Karst water resources and their complex utilization in the Bükk Mountains, northeast Hungary: an assessment from a regional hydrogeological perspective
Authors: Miklós Rita , Lénárt László , Darabos Enikő , Kovács Attila , Pelczéder Ágnes , Szabó Norbert Péter , Szűcs Péter
Published: May 2020

The cold and thermal karst water resources of the Bükk Mountains play a significant role in the hydrogeological setting of northeastern Hungary. Although there is much geological and hydrogeological information available, the regional hydrogeology of the Bükk Mountains had not been described in a standalone study involving all this information. The drinking water supply of the city of Miskolc and some other neighboring cities is based on the cold karst water resources of the Bükk Mountains. The thermal water resources have been getting more important, in terms of balneology and geothermal energy production, in this region over the last decade. An evaluation of the measurements of a 27-year-old groundwater quantity and quality monitoring system was performed. As a result, several types of new field hydrogeology, meteorology and spring discharge measurements were added to the monitoring scheme to provide information for studying the tendencies connected to extreme weather conditions. This will help to achieve sustainable utilization of the karst water resources. The main conclusions drawn in this study underline the importance of the strict measures associated with the water management of the Bükk Mountains because of the limited natural recharge and the continuously increasing demands on the cold and thermal water resources. A success story is found in Miskolc, which demonstrates the sustainable utilization of the deep thermal karst water; Miskolc hosts the largest geothermal heating plant in Central Europe with 60 MWt capacity.
Citarinostat and Momelotinib co-target HDAC6 and JAK2/STAT3 in lymphoid malignant cell lines: a potential new therapeutic combination
Authors: Cosenza Maria , Civallero Monica , Marcheselli Luigi , Sacchi Stefano , Pozzi Samantha
Published: May 2020

Histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors represent an encouraging class of antitumor drugs. HDAC inhibitors induce a series of molecular and biological responses and minimal toxicity to normal cells. Citarinostat (Acy-241) is a second generation, orally administered, HDAC6-selective inhibitor. Momelotinib (CYT387) is an orally administered inhibitor of Janus kinase/signal transducer of transcription-3 (JAK/STAT3) signaling. Momelotinib showed efficacy in patients with myelofibrosis. We hypothesized that both HDAC and JAK/STAT pathways were important in lymphoproliferative disorders, and that inhibiting JAK/STAT3 and HDAC simultaneously might enhance the efficacy of momelotinib and citarinostat without increasing toxicity. Accordingly, we tested the citarinostat + momelotinib combination in lymphoid cell lines. Citarinostat + momelotinib showed strong cytotoxicity; it significantly reduced mitochondrial membrane potential, down-regulated Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL, and activated caspases 9 and 3. Caspase-8 was upregulated in only two lymphoid cell lines, which indicated activation of the extrinsic apoptotic pathway. We identified a lymphoid cell line that was only slightly sensitive to the combination treatment. We knocked down thioredoxin expression by transfecting with small interfering RNA that targeted thioredoxin. This knockdown increased cell sensitivity to the combination-induced cell death. The combination treatment reduced Bcl-2 expression, activated caspase 3, and significantly inhibited cell viability and clonogenic survival.
Astragaloside IV protects human cardiomyocytes from hypoxia/reoxygenation injury by regulating miR-101a
Authors: Wu Yang , Fan Zongjing , Chen Zhengju , Hu Jiqiang , Cui Jie , Liu Yang , Wang Yao , Guo Bin , Shen Juan , Xie Liandi
Published: May 2020

Astragaloside IV (AS/IV) is one of the extracted components from the traditional Chinese medicine Astragalus which has been demonstrated to have potential capacity for anti-inflammation activity and for treating cardiovascular disease. Our purpose was to determine the function and underlying molecular mechanism of AS/IV in hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) injured in cardiomyocytes. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened using bioinformatic analysis, and the molecular targeting relationship was verified by the dual-luciferase report system. H/R injured cardiomyocytes were employed to explore the effect of AS/IV. QRT-PCR and Western blot analysis were applied to detect the expression of mRNA and proteins, respectively. Additionally, superoxide dismutase (SOD), lactic dehydrogenase (LDH) and MDA (malondialdehyde) levels were detected to determine the oxidative damage. Cell viability was assessed by CCK-8, and flow cytometry was used to evaluate cell apoptosis ratio. TGFBR1 and TLR2 were selected as DEGs. Additionally, AS/IV could enhance cell proliferation and upregulated miR-101a expression, which suppressed TGFBR1 and TLR2 expression in H/R injured cardiomyocytes. Moreover, the results of Western blot exhibited that the downstream genes (p-ERK and p-p38) in the MAPK signaling pathway were suppressed, which meant AS/IV could inhibit this pathway in H/R injured cardiomyocytes. Overall, this study demonstrated AS/IV could attenuate H/R injury in human cardiomyocytes via the miR-101a/TGFBR1/TLR2/MAPK signaling pathway axis, which means that it could serve as a possible alternate for H/R treatment.
Can we further improve tablet-based drawing to enhance learning? An empirical test of two types of support
Authors: Schmidgall Steffen P. , Scheiter Katharina , Eitel Alexander
Published: May 2020

Digital drawing can foster learning, but only if the drawing is of sufficient quality. Hence, the focus of the present study was to investigate whether and how two types of drawing support may foster drawing quality and, in turn, learning outcomes. To this end, participants (N = 156) were randomly assigned to one of four conditions, in which they either just read text (control), were prompted to make a free-hand representational drawing (unsupported drawing), or they were additionally supported in their drawing efforts because a background (global support) or single elements for the drawing (local support) were already provided. Learning outcomes were assessed by means of recognition, transfer, and a drawing test. Results revealed that students from all three drawing conditions (unsupported, global, and local support) scored better on the transfer and drawing tests than the control condition. Both types of drawing support did neither increase drawing quality nor learning in comparison to unsupported drawing. Reasons for the latter findings are discussed.
Elevated CO2 offsets the alteration of foliar chemicals (n-icosane, geranyl acetate, and elixene) induced by elevated O3 in three taxa of O3-tolerant eucalypts
Authors: Novriyanti Eka , Mao Qiaozhi , Agathokleous Evgenios , Watanabe Makoto , Hashidoko Yasuyuki , Koike Takayoshi
Published: May 2020

Eucalypts are important forest resources in southwestern China, and may be tolerant to elevated ground-level ozone (O3) concentrations that can negatively affect plant growth. High CO2may offset O3-induced effects by providing excess carbon to produce secondary metabolites or by inducing stomatal closure. Here, the effects of elevated CO2and O3on leaf secondary metabolites and other defense chemicals were studied by exposing seedlings ofEucalyptus globulus, E. grandis,andE. camaldulensis × E. degluptato a factorial combination of two levels of O3(< 10 nmol mol−1and 60 nmol mol−1) and CO2(ambient: 370 μmol mol−1and 600 μmol mol−1) in open-top field chambers. GC-profiles of leaf extracts illustrated the effect of elevated O3and the countering effect of high CO2on compounds in leaf epicuticular wax and essential oils, i.e.,n-icosane, geranyl acetate and elixene, compounds known as a first-line defense against insect herbivores.n-Icosane may be involved in tolerance mechanisms ofE. grandisand the hybrid, while geranyl acetate and elixene in the tolerance ofE. globulus. Elevated O3and CO2, singly or in combination, affected only leaf physiology but not biomass of various organs. Elevated CO2impacted several leaf traits, including stomatal conductance, leaf mass per area, carbon, lignin,n-icosane, geranyl acetate and elixene. Limited effects of elevated O3on leaf physiology (nitrogen,n-icosane, geranyl acetate, elixene) were commonly offset by elevated CO2. We conclude thatE. globulus,E. grandisand the hybrid were tolerant to these O3and CO2treatments, andn-icosane, geranyl acetate and elixene may be major players in tolerance mechanisms of the tested species.
Natural variations in flavonoids and triterpenoids of Cyclocarya paliurus leaves
Authors: Sun Caowen , Shang Xulan , Ding Haifen , Cao Yanni , Fang Shengzuo
Published: May 2020

Cyclocarya paliurusis widely distributed in subtropical areas of China. Secondary metabolites in the leaves, including flavonoids and triterpenoids, provide protection against diseases such as hyperlipidemia, diabetes, hypertension, and hypoimmunity. In this study, 343C. paliurusleaves were collected from 32 distinct populations covering most of the main distribution, to deduce the response of flavonoids and triterpenoids to seven environmental factors. Principal component analysis was performed using seven flavonoid and six triterpenoid compounds. The results show that altitude, latitude, and longitude significantly contributed to variations in total flavonoid and triterpenoid contents. In addition, the interaction of these metabolites was extensively correlated with environment changes, and therefore should be considered during selection and cultivation.
Adenosine A2A Receptors in Bone Marrow-Derived Cells Attenuate Cognitive Impairment in Mice After Chronic Hypoperfusion White Matter Injury
Authors: Ran Hong , Yuan Jichao , Huang Jialu , Wang Jie , Chen Kangning , Zhou Zhenhua
Published: May 2020

The mechanism of cognitive dysfunction caused by ischemic white matter lesions is unclear. To explore the effect and mechanism of different cell-derived adenosine A2A receptor (A2AR) in cognitive impairment caused by chronic hypoperfusion white matter lesions (CHWMLs), we destroyed the bone marrow hematopoietic capacity of the recipient mice using radiation irradiation followed by establishing the selectively inactivated or reconstituted A2AR models with the transplanting bone marrow from global A2AR gene knockout or wild-type mice into wild-type or gene knockout mice, respectively. Then Morris Water Maze (MWM), ELISA, immunohistochemistry, and Bielschowsky silver staining were used to assess the effect and mechanism of the cognitive function in chronic cerebral blood flow hypoperfusion (CCH) model. Selectively reconstructing bone marrow-derived cells (BMDCs) A2AR (WT → KO group) and activated total adenosine A2AR with CGS21680 (CCH + CGS group) improved the cognitive related index. Activation of BMDC A2AR suppressed expression of inflammatory cytokines in peripheral blood and reduced the number of activated microglia cells co-localized with cystatin F in local brain, consequently inhibited white matter lesions. On the contrary, selective inactivation of adenosine A2AR (KO → WT group) and activation of non-BMDC A2AR with CGS21680 (KO → WT + CGS group) served the opposite effects. These results suggested that BMDC A2AR could inhibit white matter lesions and attenuate cognitive impairment after CHWMLs, whereas non-BMDC A2ARs aggravate cognitive impairment. The systemic inflammatory response and local activated microglia with cystatin F high expression were involved in the process of cognitive function recovery with BMDC A2AR. The overall trend is that BMDC A2ARs play a leading role.
The sensemaking narratives of scientists working in health professions education scholarship units: The Canadian experience
Authors: Etmanski Brittany , Hamstra Stanley J. , Varpio Lara
Published: May 2020

Introduction To date, research studying health professions education scholarship units has overlooked the perspectives of research scientists in the field, despite their important role in these units. This research explores how health professions education scientists uphold and/or upend the institutional logics of the units they work within.

Methods Recruited via snowball sampling, 29 Canadian health professions education scientists participated in semi-structured interviews that lasted between 32–55 min. Data analysis was informed by the theories of organizational institutionalism—specifically, the microfoundation element of sensemaking.

Results Respondents’ narrations of career success were overtly linked to their research-oriented pursuits above other expectations (i.e., teaching, service).

Discussion Respondents’ narrative revealed a mismatch between the value they associated with teaching- and service-related pursuits, and the value the institution associated with those pursuits. Participants indicated a need to reconceptualize the institutional value associated with these endeavors.
Sexual Functioning Among Childhood Sexual Abuse Survivors From an Attachment Perspective
Authors: Gewirtz-Meydan Ateret , Lahav Yael
Published: May 2020

Background

Despite the fact that childhood sexual abuse can affect a survivor's sexual functioning in adulthood, few studies have examined survivors' adult sexual functioning from the perspective of attachment theory.

Aim

The present study sought to examine how sexual abuse in childhood might shape the associations between attachment insecurities and sexual functioning among adults.

Methods

The study sample consisted of 265 participants (166 women and 99 men), 45 (16.9%) of whom were classified as survivors of childhood sexual abuse. Participants completed an online questionnaire about their history of childhood sexual abuse, attachment insecurities, and sexual functioning over the past 6 months.

Outcomes

The findings of the present study suggest that attachment insecurities may have unique implications for sexual functioning among survivors of childhood sexual abuse.

Results

Findings indicated that a history of childhood sexual abuse significantly moderated the associations between attachment insecurities and sexual functioning. Whereas the effect of attachment avoidance in predicting sexual desire was not significant among nonabused participants, it was significant among survivors; specifically, higher levels of attachment avoidance predicted lower levels of sexual desire. A different pattern was found for attachment anxiety. Although attachment anxiety did not predict vaginal lubrication/penile erection among nonabused participants, it had significant effects among survivors; specifically, higher levels of attachment anxiety predicted higher levels of vaginal lubrication/penile erection.

Clinical Translation

Findings from the present study may help facilitate sex therapy interventions for childhood sexual abuse survivors, from an attachment theory perspective.

Strengths & Limitations

The study included a nonclinical, convenience sample and used self-report measures, which are highly subjective and increase the possibility of social-desirability biases. However, on the plus side, it relied on simple, short, self-report questionnaires that are accessible and can be easily used by professionals to examine a survivor's current condition relative to any of the variables, establish intervention goals, and evaluate treatment.

Conclusion

A history of childhood sexual abuse is related to 2 opposite patterns of association between attachment insecurity (depending on type) and sexual functioning.
Experimental and numerical heat transfer from vortex-injection interaction in scramjet flowfields
Authors: Llobet J.R. , Basore K.D. , Gollan R.J. , Jahn I.H.
Published: May 2020

Air-breathing propulsion has the potential to decrease the cost per kilogram for access-to-space, while increasing the flexibility of available low earth orbits. However, to meet the performance requirements, fuel-air mixing inside of scramjet engines and thermal management still need to be improved.

An option to address these issues is to use intrinsically generated vortices from scramjet inlets to enhance fuel-air mixing further downstream, leading to shorter, less internal drag generating, and thus more efficient engines. Previous works have studied this vortex-injection interaction numerically, but validation was impractical due to lack of published experimental data. This paper extends upon these previous works by providing experimental data for a canonical geometry, obtained in the T4 Stalker Tube at Mach 8 flight conditions, and assesses the accuracy of numerical methodologies such as RANS CFD to predict the vortex-injection interaction.

Focus is placed on understanding the ability of the numerical methodology to replicate the most important aspects of the vortex-injection interaction. Results show overall good agreement between the numerical and experimental results, as all major features are captured. However, limitations are encountered, especially due to a localised region of over predicted heat flux.
Prosecuting Corporate Crime in Indonesia: Recruitment Agencies that Traffic Migrant Workers
Authors: PALMER Wayne
Published: May 2020

This article examines the legal and political context for prosecuting corporate crime in Indonesia. It presents a case study of the landmark case in which a migrant labour recruitment agency was successfully prosecuted for human trafficking. This article explains the rationale and motivation of the prosecution in four sections. First, it considers the development and purpose of corporate liability as a legal concept to foreground the second section, which outlines the legal and policy framework for pursuing corporations that commit crime in Indonesia. This section also offers a detailed discussion about how individuals have been proceeded against in human trafficking cases that involve corporations. Third, this article presents a case study of the first and only instance where a corporation was successfully prosecuted for human trafficking to highlight the sequence of events that made the effort possible. Fourth, the discussion that follows identifies the prosecution's motivations for bringing the case, and makes empirical conclusions about the purpose of prosecuting corporations for human trafficking through the Indonesian legal system. In conclusion, this article argues that the institutional drive to punish corporate involvement in economic crime has created the necessary systems to seek the punishment of a wider range of other corporate crimes, including human trafficking.
An environmental scan of emergency medicine research support, training, and infrastructure across Canada
Authors: Émond Marcel , Artz Jennifer D. , Morrison Laurie J. , Snider Carolyn E. , McLeod Shelley , LeSage Natalie , Stiell Ian G. , Perry Jeffrey J.
Published: May 2020

Objective

Our study objective was to describe the Canadian emergency medicine (EM) research community landscape prior to the initiation of a nationwide network.

Methods

A two-phase electronic survey was sent to 17 Canadian medical schools. ThePhase 1 Environmental Scanwas administered to department chairs/hospital EM chiefs, to identify EM physicians conducting clinical or educational research. ThePhase 2 Surveywas sent to the identified EM researchers to assess four themes: 1) geographic distribution, 2) training/career satisfaction, 3) time/financial compensation, and 4) research facilitators/barriers. Descriptive analyses were conducted, and results were stratified by Canadian regions.

Results

A total of 92 EM researchers were identified inPhase 1; 67 (73%) responded to thePhase 2 Survey. Of those, 42 (63%) reported being clinical researchers, and 19 (45%) had a graduate degree. Three provinces encompassed most of the researchers (n = 35). Of the respondents, 61% had a research degree, 66% felt adequately trained for their research career, 73% had financial support, 83% had access to office spaces, 52% had no mentor during their first years of their career, 69% felt satisfied with their research career, and 82% suggested that they will still be conducting research in 5 years.

Conclusion

EM researchers reported being adequately trained, even though only a little over half had a graduate degree. Only two-thirds had financial support, and mentorship was lacking in one-third of the participants. Not all respondents had a form of infrastructure, but most felt optimistic about their careers. The Canadian EM research environment could be improved to ensure better research capacity.
Traumatic pneumothorax mapping using computed tomography to assess optimal area to scan with POCUS
Authors: Bignucolo Adam , Acton Claire , Ohle Robert , Socransky Steve
Published: May 2020

Introduction

It is traditionally taught that the location to place an ultrasound probe to detect a pneumothorax with point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is the anterior chest, given the theory that air will collect at the least dependent area in the supine patient. There is a wide variety of scanning protocols with varying accuracy and completeness. We sought to assess the optimal area to scan for diagnosing pneumothorax by mapping the location of traumatic pneumothorax on computed tomography (CT).

Methods

Patients were selected after a retrospective cohort of adult patients who presented to a regional trauma center with a pneumothorax diagnosed on CT. Data were extracted using a standardized data collection tool, and 20% of charts were reviewed by two reviewers. Predefined zones were used to map the areas of pneumothoraces. Theoretical sensitivity and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) are reported.

Results

A total of 203 traumatic pneumothoraces were reviewed from 2006 to 2016. The majority of the pneumothoraces were found in an area defined by the para-sternal border and the mid-clavicular line from the inferior aspect of the clavicle to the physiologic lung point (liver on the right, heart on the left). The theoretical sensitivity for pneumothorax of scanning this area was 91.6% (95% CI, 86.9–95%).

Conclusion

This study suggests any POCUS scanning protocol for traumatic pneumothorax should include an area from the inferior border of the clavicle at the parasternal border down to the liver or cardiac lung points and then the mid clavicular line down to the liver or cardiac lung points.
Working During Pandemic Disasters: Views and Predictors of EMS Providers
Authors: Alwidyan Mahmoud T. , Oteir Alaa O. , Trainor Joseph
Published: May 2020

Objectives:

This study aims to assess the perception and attitude of emergency medical services (EMS) providers toward working during disease outbreaks, and the factors that may influence their decisions to ultimately work or not.

Methods:

This is a cross-sectional study assessing the attitude of EMS providers to work during disease outbreaks. Descriptive statistics and regression analyses were performed to assess attitudes toward reporting for duty and factors that influence providers’ decisions.

Results:

Of the 500 surveys distributed, 466 (93.2%) were complete and included for analysis. The majority of participants (70.2%) are male with a mean age of 27 (SD 4.3) years. The study found that the majority (71.1%) of participants are willing to come to work during disease outbreaks. The study found 7 predictors of reporting for duty. Confidence that employer will provide adequate protective gear was the most significant predictor (odds ratio [OR], 3.95; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.31-5.42). Concern for family safety was the most important barrier against coming to work (OR, 0.40; 95% CI = 0.21-0.73).

Conclusions:

Providing adequate supplies of protective gear along with knowledge and training for disease outbreak are the main factors that enhance providers to fulfill their work expectations.
The Role of Dental Professionals in Pandemic Events and Disaster Responses
Authors: Li Guangwen , Chang Bei , Li Hui , Wang Rui , Li Gang
Published: May 2020

The past 20 years have seen major public health emergencies and natural disasters, including the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome outbreak caused by the SARS-associated coronavirus (SARS-CoV) in 2003; the Wenchuan earthquake in 2008; and the novel coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) of 2019, which caused mass casualties, infections, and panic. These also resulted in complex demands for medical resources and information, and a shortage of human resources for emergency responses. To address the shortage of human resources required for these emergency responses, Chinese dental professionals made useful contributions. From this work, deficiencies in emergency response training and opportunities for the expansion of rescue capabilities were identified, and relevant recommendations made.
Public Health Communication in Time of Crisis: Readability of On-Line COVID-19 Information
Authors: Basch Corey H. , Mohlman Jan , Hillyer Grace C. , Garcia Philip
Published: May 2020

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to assess the readability of information on the Internet posted about coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) to determine how closely these materials are written to the recommended reading levels.

Methods:

Using the search term “coronavirus,” information posted on the first 100 English language websites was identified. Using an online readability calculator, multiple readability tests were conducted to ensure a comprehensive representation would result.

Results:

The mean readability scores ranged between grade levels 6.2 and 17.8 (graduate school level). Four of the 5 measures (GFI, CLI, SMOG, FRE) found that readability exceeded the 10th grade reading level indicating that the text of these websites would be difficult for the average American to read. The mean reading level for nearly all noncommercial and commercial websites was at or above the 10th grade reading level.

Conclusions:

Messages about COVID-19 must be readable at an “easy” level, and must contain clear guidelines for behavior. The degree to which individuals seek information in response to risk messages is positively related to the expectation that the information will resolve uncertainty. However, if the information is too complex to interpret and it fails to lead to disambiguation, this can contribute to feelings of panic.
A primer on data visualization in infection prevention and antimicrobial stewardship
Authors: Salinas Jorge L. , Kritzman Jeffrey , Kobayashi Takaaki , Edmond Michael B. , Ince Dilek , Diekema Daniel J.
Published: May 2020

Data visualization refers to the techniques used to communicate information by encoding it as visual objects (eg, points, lines, or bars) contained in graphics. The recent acceleration in informatics technology has made it possible to obtain and process large amounts of data. Although data visualization can provide insights from large datasets, it can also help simplify messaging, making information more accessible for healthcare stakeholders. The field of data visualization is constantly evolving, and new techniques are frequently being created. However, evidence regarding the best way to visualize data in the fields of infection prevention and antimicrobial stewardship is limited. We provide an overview of data visualization theory and history, as well as recommendations for creating graphs for infection prevention and antimicrobial stewardship.