bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Water Regime on Growth Performance of Durum Wheat (Triticum Durum Desf.) During Different Vegetative Phases
Authors: Fellah Sihem , Khiari Abdelkader , Kribaa Mohammed , Arar Abdelkrim , Chenchouni Haroun
Published: October 2018

Plant growth and yield of cereal crops are seriously affected in drought‐prone environments, hence effective agricultural means are needed. This paper aims to evaluate the beneficial effects of supplemental irrigation, at different phenological phases, on theoretical yield components of two varieties (GTA‐Dur and Vitron) of durum wheat under field conditions. Field experiments included six water regime treatments: crop evapotranspiration ‘ETc’ throughout the wheat‐growing season (i.e. adequately irrigated); rainfed conditions (no irrigation); and four supplemental irrigation treatments (T1–T4) applied respectively at the beginning of four phenological phases of wheat growth (tillering, heading, flowering and grain filling). Yield components were significantly influenced at the beginning of the cropping season, while the components expressed in weights were influenced at late cropping. Theoretical grain yield of the variety Vitron increased by 33% at T1, 84.3% at T2, 424% at T3, 902% at T4 and 1100% at ETc. Water productivity (WP) increased by 45–70% in irrigation treatments compared to rainfed conditions. Our findings stress that the consistency between appropriate water regime and adequate varietal choice increases WP and crop productivity, and improves irrigation water conservation. Complementary irrigation substantially improves the valorization of water by crops in water‐limited areas such as hot arid and semi‐arid regions. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Avoiding the Last Ride: Can DUI Programming Address Multiple Risk Factors to Reduce Recidivism?
Authors: Gibson Sandy , Woodford Mark , Czeizinger Thomas J.
Published: October 2018

A review of DUI education literature reveals weak evidence of effective interventions. New models are suggested that offer a combination of psychoeducation and evidence‐based counseling approaches. Existing DUI programming models are explored with recommendations for areas for future research.
Using Sand Tray Therapy With Juveniles in Correctional Settings
Authors: Parker Maggie Morganfield , Cade Rochelle
Published: October 2018

The authors propose sand tray therapy as a developmentally appropriate, trauma‐sensitive, engaging intervention in counseling juvenile offenders as an aid in rehabilitation. The authors present a fictional case study to demonstrate the use of sand tray therapy with a juvenile offender in a correctional setting.
Brief Counseling for Alcohol Misuse Among Trauma Patients: Two Interventions and Influence of Baseline Use
Authors: Rogers Jennifer L. , Bernard Janine M. , Veach Laura J. , Moro Regina R. , Ivers Nathaniel N. , Reboussin Beth A. , Miller Preston , O'Brien Mary Claire
Published: October 2018

This study examined whether baseline trauma patient characteristics and randomized participation in 1 of 2 brief interventions predicted changes in alcohol use at 6 months postintervention. Higher total Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) scores predicted greater changes, and specific AUDIT items were significant predictors.
Montelukast abrogates prednisolone‐induced hepatic injury in rats: Modulation of mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative/nitrosative stress, and apoptosis
Authors: Hegab Islam Ibrahim , El‐Horany Hemat El‐Sayed , Elbatsh Maha M. , Helal Duaa S.
Published: October 2018

The aim of this study was to investigate the protective effect of montelukast (MTK) against prednisolone‐induced hepatic injury in rats. Twenty‐eight male albino rats were categorized into four equal groups. Group I served as the control group; group II: rats orally received prednisolone (5 mg·kg−1·d−1) for 30 days; groups III and IV: rats orally received MTK at 10 and 20 mg·kg−1·d−1, respectively, simultaneously with prednisolone for 30 days. Serum liver enzymes, hepatic mitochondrial function, oxidative/nitrosative stress, and inflammatory and apoptotic markers were evaluated, and the results were confirmed by histopathological examination. MTK showed significant hepatic protection evidenced by alleviated histological lesion and improvement of mitochondrial function, oxidative/nitrosative stress, and inflammatory and apoptotic changes induced by prednisolone, with more profound protection in higher MTK dose (20 mg·kg−1). In view of these findings, we can conclude that MTK may have hepatoprotective potential, beyond its therapeutic value for asthmatic patients during their course of corticosteroid therapy.
Theoretical exploration about excited state proton transfer mechanism for a series of phenol–quinoline compounds
Authors: Zhang Tianjie , Yang Guang , Jia Min , Song Xiaoyan , Yang Dapeng
Published: October 2018

In the present work, three novel phenols (10a,11‐dihydro‐4bH‐indeno[1,2‐b]quinolin‐4‐ol (1), 5,6‐dihydro‐benzo[c]acridin‐1‐ol (2), and 5,5,7,7a‐tetrahydro‐4aH‐13‐aza‐benzo[3,4]cyclohepta[1,2‐b]naphthalene‐1‐ol (3)) have been explored theoretically in detail. Using density functional theory (DFT) and time‐dependent DFT (TDDFT) methods, we inquire into the intramolecular hydrogen‐bonding interactions and the excited‐state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT) process. Exploring the steady‐state absorption and emission spectra under TDDFT/B3LYP/TZVP theoretical level in acetonitrile solvent, our calculated results demonstrate an experimental phenomenon. Based on analysis of the variations of geometrical parameters and infrared (IR) vibrational spectra, we confirm that O–H⋯N should be strengthened in the S1 state. Investigating the frontier molecular orbitals (MOs) and the charge density difference (CDD) maps, it can be confirmed that the charge redistribution facilitates the tendency of the ESIPT process for 1, 2, and 3 systems. By constructing potential energy curves, we confirm that the proton transfer should occur in the S1 state. In particular, the ESIPT for 2 and 3 systems are nonbarrier processes in the S1 state, which confirms that ESIPT should be exothermal spontaneously. This work explains previous experimental results and makes a reasonable assumption about the ESIPT mechanism for 1, 2 and 3 systems. We sincerely hope our work can facilitate understanding and promoting applications about them in future.
Continuous preparation of nimesulide nanoparticles by liquid antisolvent precipitation using spinning disc reactor
Authors: Rathod Wadilal R , Rathod Virendra K
Published: October 2018

BACKGROUND

Nimesulide (NIM), a nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug (NSAID) acts as an antipyretic, analgesic and anti‐inflammatory agent, and it is widely used in treating acute pain due to various diseases such as headache, migraine, back pain and postoperative pain. Nimesulide is reported to have poor solubility in water (0.01 mg mL−1). In this work, the solvent–antisolvent (S:AS) precipitation of NIM using spinning disc reactor (SDR) was investigated.

RESULTS

Comparative studies were investigated between stirred tank reactor and SDR. The effects of different functional parameters of spinning disc process such as S:AS ratio and flow rate, nimesulide concentration, disc surface texture, capping agent concentration, different capping agents and speed of rotating disc were studied on the particle size of nimesulide. The average particle size of 192 nm for nimesulide was successfully achieved with a considerable particle size distribution at a 300 mL min−1 total flow rate, with the following parameters: concentration of nimesulide in ethanol 0.5 mg mL−1; concentration of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) in deionized water 1 mg mL−1; S:AS ratio 1:6 and at 3000 rpm rotating disc speed. This result should be compared with 9.5 µm particle size with mechanical agitated contactor at S:AS ratio 1:6 and speed of agitation 600 rpm.

CONCLUSION

The NIM nanoparticles can be continuously prepared in a SDR with a control and uniform particle size. This leads to increased dissolution rate and bioavailability of poorly water soluble drugs. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Temporal and spatial expression of the Fox gene family in the Leech Helobdella austinensis
Authors: Kwak Hee‐Jin , Ryu Kyoung‐Bin , Medina Jiménez Brenda Irene , Park Soon Cheol , Cho Sung‐Jin
Published: October 2018

The Forkhead box (Fox) gene family is an evolutionarily ancient gene family named after the Drosophila melanogaster forkhead gene (fkh). Fox genes are highly conserved transcription factors critical for embryogenesis and carcinogenesis. In the current study, we report a whole‐genome survey of Fox genes and their expression patterns in the leech Helobdella austienesis. Phylogenetic analysis suggests that some Fox genes of leeches are correlated with other Lophotrochozoa and vertebrate Fox genes. Here we have performed semiquantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and whole‐mount in situ hybridization of Fox genes throughout the embryonic development of H. austinensis. We found that each one of the leech Fox genes (FoxA1, FoxA3, FoxC, FoxL2, FoxO1, and FoxO2) is expressed in a specific set of cells or tissue type. From Stages 9–11, Hau‐FoxA1 was expressed in the foregut of the anterior region, and Hau‐FoxL2 was expressed in mesodermal muscle fiber. Hau‐FoxA3 was temporally expressed in the ventral neuroectoderm. At Stage 11, Hau‐FoxC was expressed in the foregut. Hau‐FoxO genes have a ubiquitous expression. Our results provide more insight on the evolutionary linkage and role of the Fox gene function in Bilateria.
Time‐based differences in the effects of positive and negative affectivity on perceived supervisor support and organizational commitment among newcomers
Authors: Vandenberghe Christian , Panaccio Alexandra , Bentein Kathleen , Mignonac Karim , Roussel Patrice , Ayed Ahmed Khalil Ben
Published: October 2018

Building on the broaden‐and‐build theory and research on the negativity bias, this study examines how trait affectivity, as a stable predisposition predicting the pattern of emotional responding, shapes newcomers' perceptions of supervisor support and experience of organizational commitment. Using latent growth modeling and data collected at four points in time from newcomers (N = 158), we found the initial level of perceived supervisor support to mediate a negative relationship between negative affectivity and the level of commitment. Moreover, although newcomers experienced a general decrease in perceived supervisor support and a related decrease in commitment, those with high positive affectivity experienced a weaker decrease in perceived supervisor support, which led to a weaker decrease in commitment. Incidentally, positive affectivity was also positively related to the initial level of commitment. Two post hoc studies indicated that positive and negative affectivity exerted their effects controlling for state affect and replicated the relationship between change in perceived support and commitment. We discuss how these findings inform our understanding of trait affectivity's influence on newcomers' work attitudes.
Drop coating deposition Raman spectroscopy of dipicolinic acid
Authors: Kočišová Eva , Procházka Marek
Published: October 2018

Dipicolinic acid (DPA) is an important spore biomarker for Bacillus anthracis (anthrax). Drop coating deposition Raman (DCDR) spectroscopy on a commercial hydrophobic SpectRIM™ plate allowed DPA to be detected at 5 × 10−7‐M deposited concentration, equivalent to approximately 90 spores, significantly below the infective dose (104 spores). The DCDR spectra of DPA differ from Raman spectrum of DPA powder, crystalline state, and aqueous solution.
Optimization of a dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction method followed by UHPLC analysis for fluoxetine quantification in environmental water resources
Authors: Runfola Massimiliano , Lima Diana L.D. , Fonseca Ana Paula , Barbosa Zélia
Published: October 2018

Fluoxetine is the most prescribed drug for treatment of depression. Recently, its presence in aquatic environment has been receiving a growing interest as several studies assessed its effects on aquatic fauna. Therefore, it's important to have an analytical method capable of monitoring these compounds at low concentrations. In this study, a new method was developed based on dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction to preconcentrate fluoxetine in a small volume of water sample (6 mL) before chromatographic analysis using ultra high performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection. Effect of composition and volume of extracting mixture, sample pH, vortexing time and salt addition were evaluated. Optimization of extraction conditions lead to an enrichment factor of 61 ± 18. After extraction optimization, recovery percentages of fluoxetine spiked into different water matrices between 83–110% were obtained. For the optimized method, the calibration curve was obtained in the range of 160–2500 ng/L with a limit of detection of 98.9 ng/L and a limit of quantification of 329.8 ng/L.
The Use of Transesophageal Echocardiography During Cardiac Arrest Resuscitation: A Literature Review
Authors: Parker Brian K. , Salerno Alexis , Euerle Brian D.
Published: October 2018

We propose that transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) can be used to guide cardiac arrest resuscitation. We undertook a literature search (Medline and EMBase) to assess articles on that topic. Our search yielded 55 articles falling into 3 categories: TEE used in operating rooms, TEE used in emergency departments, and TEE used in other settings. In many cases, TEE changed the direction of the resuscitation; however, it is unclear whether TEE changed patient‐oriented outcomes, such as neurologically intact survival. Few adverse events related to TEE have been documented. There is growing evidence that physicians can learn to use TEE during resuscitations and apply the findings to clinical decisions.
A novel method for cross‐polarization reduction of conical horns
Authors: Azizi Seyed Mohammad Mehdi , Mohseni Armaki Seyyed Hossein
Published: October 2018

In this article, a new method for exciting the TM11 mode to symmetrize the radiation pattern and reduce the cross‐polarization level of the conical horn antennas is presented. The main idea of this paper is to excite TM11 mode with a frequency‐dependent phase difference relative to the TE11 mode in a manner that these modes appear in phase on the radiation aperture of the antenna in the desired frequency range of 8‐8.4 GHz. Finally, the performance of the TM11 exciter and horn antenna together were simulated and after reaching the predefined goals they were fabricated.
Even and odd mode CPW‐fed pattern diversity antenna for body centric communication systems
Authors: Faiz A. M. , Gogosh N. , Khan S. A. , Shafique M. Farhan
Published: October 2018

A patterns diversity slot antenna loaded with a dielectric resonator is presented for on‐body communication systems in 2.45 GHz band. The diversity is achieved by launching even and odd modes on coplanar feed lines resulting in end‐fire and broadside radiation pattern respectively. Loading of dielectric resonator enhances impedance bandwidth and improves isolation between broadside and end‐fire patterns. A common impedance bandwidth of 4% is obtained along with ports isolation of 22 dB. Diversity gain is calculated for three unique on‐body channels and the maximum diversity gain of 8.5 dB is achieved for nonline‐of‐sight on body channel. Large diversity gain and planar geometry makes this antenna suitable for various on‐body communication applications.
Compact CPW‐fed ultra‐wideband printed antennas with controllable notch characteristics
Authors: Li Yafeng , Li En , Gao Chong , Yang Tao
Published: October 2018

In this paper, a series of compact and miniaturized UWB‐printed antennas with a controllable notch function are proposed. The CPW structure is adopted to feed the proposed antenna, where the overall dimension is as compact as 15 mm × 15 mm × 0.5 mm. From 2.8GHz to 12GHz, the antennas proposed have a superior performance with approximate 2:1 VSWR, except the rejection frequency band. In addition, the main feature of the proposed antennas are their controllable notch frequency, notch amplitude, and notch orders, which are determined by the size of the circular U‐shaped slit, the position of the connecting line, and the number of slits, respectively. Moreover, the measured results are in reasonably good with the simulated results.
Wavelength‐dependent transient gain saturation in an erbium‐doped fiber amplifier under different pump conditions
Authors: Kuroda Keiji , Tanaka Kei , Yoshikuni Yuzo
Published: October 2018

We report measurements of wavelength‐dependent gain saturation in an erbium‐doped fiber amplifier over a wavelength range of 30 nm under four different pump conditions. The wavelength and the pump dependences were simultaneously analyzed using a theoretical model with the McCumber relation. Our results could be reproduced using a single theoretical model.
Brain metabolism under different anesthetic conditions using hyperpolarized [1‐13C]pyruvate and [2‐13C]pyruvate
Authors: Marjańska Małgorzata , Shestov Alexander A. , Deelchand Dinesh K. , Kittelson Emily , Henry Pierre‐Gilles
Published: October 2018

Carbon‐13 NMR spectroscopy (13C MRS) offers the unique capability to measure brain metabolic rates in vivo. Hyperpolarized 13C reduces the time required to assess brain metabolism from hours to minutes when compared with conventional 13C MRS. This study investigates metabolism of hyperpolarized [1‐13C]pyruvate and [2‐13C]pyruvate in the rat brain in vivo under various anesthetics: pentobarbital, isoflurane, α‐chloralose, and morphine. The apparent metabolic rate from pyruvate to lactate modeled using time courses obtained after injection of hyperpolarized [1‐13C]pyruvate was significantly greater for isoflurane than for all other anesthetic conditions, and significantly greater for morphine than for α‐chloralose. The apparent metabolic rate from pyruvate to bicarbonate was significantly greater for morphine than for all other anesthetic conditions, and significantly lower for pentobarbital than for α‐chloralose. Results show that relative TCA cycle rates determined from hyperpolarized 13C data are consistent with rates previously measured using conventional 13C MRS under similar anesthetic conditions, and that using morphine for sedation greatly improves detection of downstream metabolic products compared with other anesthetics.
Objective acceleration for unconstrained optimization
Authors: Riseth Asbjørn Nilsen
Published: October 2018

Acceleration schemes can dramatically improve existing optimization procedures. In most of the work on these schemes, such as nonlinear generalized minimal residual (N‐GMRES), acceleration is based on minimizing the ℓ2 norm of some target on subspaces of
. There are many numerical examples that show how accelerating general‐purpose and domain‐specific optimizers with N‐GMRES results in large improvements. We propose a natural modification to N‐GMRES, which significantly improves the performance in a testing environment originally used to advocate N‐GMRES. Our proposed approach, which we refer to as O‐ACCEL (objective acceleration), is novel in that it minimizes an approximation to the objective function on subspaces of
. We prove that O‐ACCEL reduces to the full orthogonalization method for linear systems when the objective is quadratic, which differentiates our proposed approach from existing acceleration methods. Comparisons with the limited‐memory Broyden–Fletcher–Goldfarb–Shanno and nonlinear conjugate gradient methods indicate the competitiveness of O‐ACCEL. As it can be combined with domain‐specific optimizers, it may also be beneficial in areas where limited‐memory Broyden–Fletcher–Goldfarb–Shanno and nonlinear conjugate gradient methods are not suitable.
A shape optimization approach for simulating contact of elastic membranes with rigid obstacles
Authors: Sharma Akriti , Rangarajan Ramsharan
Published: October 2018

The obstacle problem consists in computing equilibrium shapes of elastic membranes in contact with rigid obstacles. In addition to the displacement u of the membrane, the interface Γ on the membrane demarcating the region in contact with the obstacle is also an unknown and plays the role of a free boundary. Numerical methods that simulate obstacle problems as variational inequalities share the unifying feature of first computing membrane displacements and then deducing the location of the free boundary a posteriori. We present a shape optimization‐based approach here that inverts this paradigm by considering the free boundary to be the primary unknown and compute it as the minimizer of a certain shape functional using a gradient descent algorithm. In a nutshell, we compute Γ then u, and not u then Γ. Our approach proffers clear algorithmic advantages. Unilateral contact constraints on displacements, which render traditional approaches into expensive quadratic programs, appear only as Dirichlet boundary conditions along the free boundary. Displacements of the membrane need to be approximated only over the noncoincidence set, thereby rendering smaller discrete problems to be resolved. The issue of suboptimal convergence of finite element solutions stemming from the reduced regularity of displacements across the free boundary is naturally circumvented. Most importantly perhaps, our numerical experiments reveal that the free boundary can be approximated to within distances that are two orders of magnitude smaller than the mesh size used for spatial discretization. The success of the proposed algorithm relies on a confluence of factors‐ choosing a suitable shape functional, representing free boundary iterates with smooth implicit functions, an ansatz for the velocity of the free boundary that helps realize a gradient descent scheme and triangulating evolving domains with universal meshes. We discuss these aspects in detail and present numerous examples examining the performance of the algorithm.
Characterisation and screening of antimicrobial essential oil components against clinically important antibiotic‐resistant bacteria using thin layer chromatography‐direct bioautography hyphenated with GC‐MS, LC‐MS and NMR
Authors: Owen Lucy , White Alex W. , Laird Katie
Published: October 2018

Introduction

The antimicrobial activity of many essential oils (EOs) is well established, indicating that EOs may be a source of compounds for antimicrobial drug development. Thin layer chromatography‐direct bioautography (TLC‐DB) can quickly identify antimicrobial components in complex mixtures and can be applied to the screening of EOs for lead compounds.

Objectives

This study aimed to identify antimicrobial components of oregano, rosewood and cumin EOs against antibiotic‐sensitive and ‐resistant bacteria using TLC‐DB and a multi‐faceted approach of GC‐MS, LC‐MS and NMR techniques to characterise bioactive compounds. The study also aimed to quantify the antimicrobial activity of bioactive compounds in order to evaluate their potential for the development of therapies against antibiotic‐resistant bacteria.

Materials and Methods

EOs were eluted on TLC plates and sprayed with a suspension of Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecium, Escherichia coli or Pseudomonas aeruginosa (antibiotic‐sensitive and ‐resistant isolates). Zones of inhibition, visualised with iodonitrotetrazolium chloride, were subject to GC‐MS, LC‐MS and NMR to characterise the bioactive compounds.

Results

Seven compounds were identified from the three EOs using GC‐MS, while LC‐MS and NMR failed to detect the presence of any further non‐volatile or heat labile compounds. Carvacrol was most antimicrobial compound identified, with minimum inhibitory concentrations ranging 0.99–31.62 mM.

Conclusion

The identified antimicrobial compounds present in oregano, rosewood and cumin EOs including carvacrol may be candidates for the development of novel antimicrobial therapies against antibiotic‐resistant bacteria.
Establishment of normative values for the fetal posterior fossa by magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Chapman Teresa , Menashe Sarah J. , Zare Megan , Alessio Adam M. , Ishak Gisele E.
Published: October 2018

Objective

Suspected Dandy‐Walker continuum anomalies constitute a significant percentage of prenatal cases evaluated by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). To unify the description of posterior fossa malformations, we sought to establish objective measurements for the posterior fossa in normal fetuses between 18 and 37 weeks gestation.

Methods

T2‐weighted images of normal fetal brains in sagittal projection were obtained from fetal magnetic resonance (MR) studies of normal brains performed from 2009 to 2017.121 fetal brains were included in the analysis. Three radiologists reviewed images and recorded the following for each case: superior posterior fossa angle (SPFA), posterior fossa perimeter, and tegmento‐vermian angle (TVA).

Results

For each feature, the mean of the measurements, the percentage of absolute difference of the reader measurement compared with mean measurement, and the interclass correlation (ICC) were calculated. Values are reported as mean ± standard deviation. Perimeter increases linearly with age, whereas the SPFA and the TVA are independent of gestational age. For all included cases, the SPFA averaged 100.9° ± 8° and the TVA averaged 2.5° ± 2.3°.

Conclusion

The superior posterior fossa angle, a novel measurement, and the posterior fossa perimeter can be used for establishing the expected size of the posterior fossa in second‐ and third‐trimester fetuses by MRI.
Switchable phase transition behavior of thermoresponsive substrates for cell sheet engineering
Authors: Mokhtarinia Kiana , Nourbakhsh Mohammad Sadegh , Masaeli Elahe , Entezam Mehdi , Karamali Fereshteh , Nasr‐Esfahani Mohammad Hossein
Published: October 2018

Recently, there are significant interests in the development of biomaterials with nonlinear response to an external stimulus. Thermoresponsive polymers as a well‐known class of stimuli‐responsive materials represent reversible hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity characteristics around a critical temperature. This switchable behavior applies for nondestructive cellular detachment from cultivation substrates. In this study, poly (N‐isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAAm)‐grafted dishes were made up to harvest retinal pigmented epithelial (RPE) and periodontal ligament cell (PDLC) sheets. Wettability assessments verified that all functionalized surfaces were inverted from hydrophilic to hydrophobic state when the temperature rises from lower critical solution temperature (LCST) at 37 °C. Other physicochemical characteristics such as chemical composition, grafting thickness, and surface topography were investigated through attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR‐FTIR) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). ATR‐FTIR results showed typical peaks of amide group corresponding to successful PNIPAAm polymerization. AFM microscopy results also proved creating a rough PNIPAAm layer with thickness of 29.2 nm after grafting process in the mixture of methanol and water. Cell culture experiments showed an irreversible cellular attachment/detachment from modified surfaces upon temperature changes. These results introduced thermoresponsive TCPS to noninvasively harvest RPE and PDLCs sheets especially for application in scaffold‐free tissue engineering decorations. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2018, 56, 1567–1576
Ginsenoside Rg3 and Rh2 protect trimethyltin‐induced neurotoxicity via prevention on neuronal apoptosis and neuroinflammation
Authors: Hou Jingang , Xue Jianjie , Wang Zi , Li Wei
Published: October 2018

The acute exposure of trimethyltin (TMT) develops clinical syndrome characterized by amnesia, aggressive behavior, and complex seizures. This neurotoxicant selectively induces hippocampal neuronal injury and glial activation accompanied with resultant neuroinflammation. Here we report two candidates ginsenosides Rg3 and Rh2 as neuroprotection agents using a mouse model of TMT intoxication via a single injection (2 mg/kg) and primary neuronal culture systems. Four‐week administration of Rg3 or Rh2 significantly reduced TMT‐induced seizures and behavioral changes. Rg3 and Rh2 significantly attenuated the oxidative stress evidenced by improvement on antioxidant enzymes and neuronal loss and astrocytic activation in mouse brain. In primary cultures, TMT induced significant neuronal death after 24‐h intoxication and vigorous secretion of inflammatory cytokines (IL‐1α/β, IL‐6, TNF‐α, and MCP‐1) in astrocytes. Pretreatment with Rg3 or Rh2 not only reduced cell death but efficiently suppressed above mentioned inflammatory cytokines confirmed by antibody array test. The underlying protective mechanism by Rg3 and Rh2 was delineated through selective upregulation of PI3K/Akt and suppression of ERK activation. Intriguingly, Rg3 and Rh2 protected oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (O‐2A) from TMT intoxication via promoting type 2 astrocytic differentiation without further inflammatory activation. Collectively, Rg3 and Rh2 interventions aimed at reducing oxidative stress and neuroinflammation neurotoxicity therefore are of therapeutic benefit in TMT‐induced neurodegeneration.
Stable isotope ratios of carbon, nitrogen and selenium concentration in the scalp hair of Crohn's disease patients who ingested the elemental diet Elental®
Authors: Ogasawara Hideki , Hayasaka Moriaki , Maemoto Atsuo , Furukawa Shigeru , Ito Takahiro , Kimura Osamu , Endo Tetsuya
Published: October 2018

Rationale

Elental® is an elemental diet widely used as a nutritional supplement for Crohn's disease (CD) patients in Japan. Elental® contains amino acids as nitrogen sources and does not contain selenium (Se), and the δ13C and δ15N values of Elental® are markedly higher and lower, respectively, than those of a normal diet.

Methods

We compared the δ13C and δ15N values and Se concentration in the scalp hair of CD patients with those of control subjects who ate a regular diet, and estimated the amount of Elental® ingested as a supplement. The δ13C and δ15N values and the Se concentrations were quantified using isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS) and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS), respectively.

Results

An increase in Elental® ingestion increased the δ13C value in the hair of CD patients (p <0.05), while it reduced the δ15N value (p <0.05) and tended to reduce the Se concentration in female patients.

Conclusions

The amount of Elental® ingested could be estimated by the δ13C and δ15N values in the hair of CD patients. Furthermore, the Se deficiency in female patients may be predicted from the δ13C and δ15N values.
Gas‐phase rearrangement reaction of Schiff‐base‐modified peptide ions
Authors: Wang Nan , Pilo Alice L. , Zhao Feifei , Bu Jiexun , McLuckey Scott A.
Published: October 2018

Rationale

Schiff base modification of peptides has been shown to facilitate their primary structural characterization via tandem mass spectrometry. However, we have discovered a novel rearrangement reaction via ion trap collisional activation involving the imine of the Schiff base and one of several functional groups, particularly the side chains of the basic residues lysine, arginine, and histidine, in the peptide.

Methods

Gas‐phase ion/ion reactions involving an aldehyde‐containing reagent were used to generate Schiff‐base‐modified model peptides in a hybrid triple quadrupole/linear ion trap tandem mass spectrometer. Subsequent ion trap collisional activation was used to study the rearrangement reaction.

Results

Schiff‐base‐modified peptide ions were found to undergo a rearrangement reaction that was observed to be either a major or minor contributor to the product ion spectrum, depending upon a variety of factors that include, for example, ion polarity, identity of the nucleophile in the peptide (e.g., side chains of lysine, histidine, and arginine), and the position of the nucleophile relative to the imine.

Conclusions

Relatively low‐energy rearrangement reactions can occur in Schiff‐base‐modified peptide ions that involve the imine of the Schiff base and a nucleophile present in the polypeptide. While this rearrangement process does not appear to compromise the structural information that can be generated via collisional activation of Schiff‐base‐modified peptide ions, it can siphon away signal from the structurally diagnostic processes in some instances.
Water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) invasion and establishment in a temperate river system
Authors: VonBank Jay A. , Casper Andrew F. , Pendleton Jennifer E. , Hagy Heath M.
Published: October 2018

Water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) is an invasive aquatic macrophyte that is prolific throughout many regions worldwide, but it has recently been detected in several areas of the Midwest United States, outside of its historical range. We assessed the occurrence of water hyacinth in the upper Illinois River to understand the current distribution and potential establishment pathways within a large river system in a temperate climate. We estimated plant biomass and occurrence of seeds in substrate and the water column at locations where water hyacinth occurred and other areas throughout the study area. Biomass of seeds varied temporally and spatially, but no potential water hyacinth seeds germinated during germination trials and germination rates for unscarified water hyacinth seeds from an established population were extremely low. Interestingly, a high abundance and diversity of seeds were detected below water hyacinth mats indicating that water hyacinth root systems may also act as a barrier to hydrochoric seeds in large river systems. Generally, the occurrence of water hyacinth mats and propagules during our study did not pose any apparent issues for commercial navigation due to low overall occurrence and biomass, late occurrence in the growing season, and nongermination of seeds. However, presence of potential water hyacinth in the seed bank and rapid proliferation late in the growing season could pose issues for recreational navigation in low‐flow areas and suggests increased risk if environmental conditions become more suitable for establishment. Occurrence of water hyacinth in the upper Illinois River likely relies on biomass reintroduction annually by humans, and behavioural modification or legal means may be necessary to reduce future occurrences.
Matched or unmatched analyses with propensity‐score–matched data?
Authors: Wan Fei
Published: October 2018

Propensity‐score matching has been used widely in observational studies to balance confounders across treatment groups. However, whether matched‐pairs analyses should be used as a primary approach is still in debate. We compared the statistical power and type 1 error rate for four commonly used methods of analyzing propensity‐score–matched samples with continuous outcomes: (1) an unadjusted mixed‐effects model, (2) an unadjusted generalized estimating method, (3) simple linear regression, and (4) multiple linear regression. Multiple linear regression had the highest statistical power among the four competing methods. We also found that the degree of intraclass correlation within matched pairs depends on the dissimilarity between the coefficient vectors of confounders in the outcome and treatment models. Multiple linear regression is superior to the unadjusted matched‐pairs analyses for propensity‐score–matched data.
The Unfolding and Resurfacing of Information Systems Knowledge over the Last 25 Years: A Systemic Perspective
Authors: Córdoba‐Pachón José‐Rodrigo , Paucar‐Caceres Alberto
Published: October 2018

Currently, there are many perspectives aiming to account for what the field of information systems (IS) is or should be. For some, IS is conceived as a reference and stable discipline with dominant or core knowledge to export to other disciplines. To others, IS still requires a more eclectic/fluid perspective to enable IS to be adaptable to emerging challenges and possibilities. In both types of perspectives, there is a need to appreciate fully how IS knowledge has effectively unfolded through time in broader contexts of social sciences. In line with an emerging research orientation to conceive the IS field as both dominant and eclectic, we propose a systemic framework to account for these stages. We identify key IS knowledge concepts/themes emerging from analysing 4100 abstracts from articles in eight IS journals covering European Union/US regions over the last 25 years. Our findings suggest that such knowledge does not accumulate, but rather, some IS key concepts like systems, information and use resurface over time, leading to draw important implications for IS education, research and practice. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Stipulating Low Production Cost Solar Cells All Set to Retail…!
Authors: Mrinalini Madoori , Islavath Nanaji , Prasanthkumar Seelam , Giribabu Lingamallu
Published: October 2018

Today's solar cells are exceptionally in demand whilst excess exploitation of natural fossil fuels. In this context, the first and second generation solar cells commercially available in market for more than decades however limitations in production cost and large–scale applications insist to generate inexpensive materials for fabrication. Thereby, organic materials based solar cells explored and emerging as third generation solar cells which possess flexibility, low cost and large‐scale applications. For example, organic photovoltaics, dye sensitized solar cells and perovskite (organic‐inorganic) solar cells (PSCs) are considered third generation solar cells wherein PSCs reached the record power conversion efficiency (PCE ∼23 %) and durability assists great advantages for commercialization in near future. Moreover, we reported various global renowned companies involved producing the modules and materials for three generation solar cells, hence, majority of companies considered commercialization of perovskite based solar cells assist low cost photovoltaics to meet the current energy necessities and environmental safety.
A systematic review characterizing and clarifying intrinsic teaching challenges linked to inquiry‐based practical work
Authors: Akuma Fru Vitalis , Callaghan Ronel
Published: October 2018

Since scientific literacy has become a key goal in science education, many people have argued in favor of the incorporation of inquiry in science education. However, scattered in the literature are extrinsic and intrinsic teaching challenges linked to the design and implementation of inquiry‐based practical work (IBPW) in secondary school science classrooms. The purpose of this systematic literature review was to characterize and clarify the intrinsic challenges. From an instructional design perspective, the characterization of the challenges yielded four primary categories. The categories consist of initiation‐phase challenges (such as unfavorable views regarding science and practical work), planning‐phase challenges (including difficulties involved in designing IBPW), implementation‐phase challenges (e.g., persuading learners to reflect on their experiences and findings), and summative evaluation‐phase challenges which include concerns linked to the grading of practical inquiry. In the different categories, the challenges are linked to gaps in various aspects of teacher competencies especially in the context of the TPACK framework. The aspects include content knowledge (CK) (such as science content and scientific inquiry); in addition to technological knowledge (TK) linked to standard technologies. Also included is pedagogic CK (including orientation toward science teaching). Moreover, some of the intrinsic challenges are linked to gaps in skills (including pervasive classroom management and practical skills); in addition to values (such as commitment). These results have theory‐, practice‐, and research‐based implications.
Supporting linguistically diverse students' science learning with dynamic visualizations through discourse‐rich practices
Authors: Ryoo Kihyun , Bedell Kristin
Published: October 2018

Carefully scaffolded dynamic visualizations have potential to promote science learning for all students, including English language learners (ELLs) who are often underserved in mainstream science classrooms, but little is known about how to design effective scaffolding to support such diverse students' learning with dynamic visualizations. This study investigated how two forms of scaffolding embedded in dynamic visualizations, expert guidance and generating guidance, can foster ELLs' and non‐ELLs' understanding of unobservable scientific phenomena. While interacting with dynamic visualizations, students in the expert guidance condition were provided with scientifically accurate explanations to interpret visual representations, whereas students in the generating guidance condition were prompted to generate their own explanations using visual representations. The results show the significant advantage of generating guidance over expert guidance for both ELLs and non‐ELLs, although students in the generating guidance condition did not receive feedback on their generated artifacts. Analyses of video data and log data from 40 pairs revealed that each form of scaffolding affected the quantity and quality of linguistically diverse students' conversations. The results show that generating guidance enabled students, particularly ELLs, to engage in discourse‐rich practices to evaluate various sources of evidence from the visualization and compare the evidence to their alternative ideas to develop a coherent understanding of the target concepts. This study shows the unique benefits of generating guidance as an effective strategy to support linguistically diverse students' science learning with dynamic visualizations.
A triple‐band high‐gain planar dipole with double interdigital structure for indoor LTE and WLAN base stations
Authors: Archevapanich Tuanjai , Chomtong Pongsathorn , Chutchavong Vanvisa , Akkaraekthalin Prayoot
Published: October 2018

This paper presents a triple‐band antenna using interdigital technique based on dipole structure at a frequency of 1.8 GHz. Using this technique, harmonic frequency bands can be generated as desired, resulting in the resonance frequencies of the second and third harmonics at 2.4 and 5.2 GHz, respectively. The proposed antenna consists of two square brass plates with an overall size of 63 × 64 mm2. The antenna bandwidths are found to be 410 MHz (1.59–2.00 GHz), 70 MHz (2.40–2.47 GHz), and 790 MHz (4.99–5.78 GHz), and the gains obtained are 9.63, 8.95, and 8.97 dB, respectively. The radiation patterns are directional at all frequency bands. Therefore, the proposed antenna can be appropriately used for indoor long‐term evolution (LTE) and wireless local area network (WLAN) base stations. © 2018 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Non‐affine fiber kinematics in arterial mechanics: a continuum micromechanical investigation
Authors: Morin Claire , Avril Stéphane , Hellmich Christian
Published: October 2018

There is growing experimental evidence for non‐affine deformations occurring in different types of fibrous soft tissues; meaning that the fiber orientations do not follow the macroscopic deformation gradient. Suitable mathematical modeling of this phenomenon is an open challenge, which we here tackle in the framework of continuum micromechanics. From a rate‐based analogon of Eshelby's inhomogeneity problem, we derive strain and spin concentration tensors relating macroscopic strain rate tensors applied to the boundaries of a Representative Volume Element (RVE), to strain rates and spins within the tissue microstructure, in particular those associated with fiber rotations due to external mechanical loading. After presenting suitable algorithms for integrating the resulting rate‐type governing equations, a first relevance check of the novel modeling approach is undertaken, by comparison of model results to recent experiments performed on the adventitia layer of rabbit carotid tissue.
Does the Road to Happiness Depend on the Retirement Decision? Evidence from Italy
Authors: Deiana Claudio , Mazzarella Gianluca
Published: October 2018

This study estimates the causal effect of retirement decision on well-being in Italy. To do so, the authors exploit the exogenous variation provided by the changes in the eligibility criteria for pensions that were enacted in Italy in 1995 (Dini’s law) and in 1997 (Prodi’s law, from the names of the prime ministers at the time of their introduction). A sizeable and positive impact of retirement decision is found on satisfaction with leisure time and on frequency of meeting friends. Furthermore, the results are generalized, allowing for the estimation of different moments from different data sources.
Use of Administrative Data for Counterfactual Impact Evaluation of Active Labour Market Policies in Europe: Country and Time Comparisons
Authors: d’Hombres Beatrice , Santangelo Giulia
Published: October 2018

The purpose of this chapter is to document how widespread is, across Europe, the use of administrative data for counterfactual impact evaluations of active labour market policies. The analysis, based on published articles and working papers issued between 2000 and 2016, suggests that the interventions subject to counterfactual impact evaluations are unevenly distributed across Europe, with Germany and the Nordic countries being over-represented, while the opposite is found for East European countries. It is also found that counterfactual impact evaluations based on administrative data tend to (1) measure the effect of active labour market policies on several outcome variables, (2) estimate heterogeneous effects across subgroups and (3) examine short- as well as long-term impacts. In contrast, survey-based counterfactual impact evaluations are usually less comprehensive.
From ‘Intruders’ to ‘Partners’: The Evolution of the Relationship Between the Research Community and Sources of Official Administrative Data
Authors: Jackson Paul
Published: October 2018

Over the past 30 years, national producers of official statistics have addressed the integrity of their data and outputs and improved public trust in them. It was necessary to protect unpublished data and to demonstrate independence. A distance grew between producers of official statistics and the research community, to the extent that researchers were sometimes excluded from using unpublished microdata altogether. However, since around 2000, significant improvements in the legal, policy, and administrative framework have been made. This means our present and our future can be a partnership of the various skills and perspectives of the official statistics and the research communities, to the benefit of our economy and society.
The Potential of Administrative Microdata for Better Policy-Making in Europe
Authors: Langedijk Sven , Vollbracht Ian , Paruolo Paolo
Published: October 2018

This chapter discusses the potential of systematic use of administrative microdata in policy research in Europe. It argues that their systematic and organised use can lead to substantial improvements in regulation and public investments, provided that some challenges are properly addressed.
Triple point of a scalar field theory on a fuzzy sphere
Authors: Kováčik Samuel , O’Connor Denjoe
Published: October 2018

Abstract

The model of a scalar field with quartic self-interaction on the fuzzy sphere has three known phases: a uniformly ordered phase, a disordered phase and a non-uniformly ordered phase, the last of which has no classical counterpart. These three phases are expected to meet at a triple point. By studying the infinite matrix size limit, we locate the position of this triple point to within a small triangle in terms of the parameters of the model. We find the triple point is closer to the coordinate origin of the phase diagram than previous estimates but broadly consistent with recent analytic predictions.