bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural Diversity of D‐Alanine: D‐Alanine Ligase and Its Exploration in Development of Antibacterial Agents Against the Multi‐Variant Bacterial Infections
Authors: Mayank  , Sidhu Jagpreet Singh , Joshi Gaurav , Sindhu Jayant , Kaur Navneet , Singh Narinder
Published: April 2022

D‐alanine: D‐alanine ligase (Rv2981c or Ddl) (EC 6.3.2.4) is a bacterial protein that performs critical functions for the proper growth and development of bacterial cells. Understanding the activity profile of Ddl within the various strains of the bacteria seems vital in broad‐spectrum antimicrobial drug discovery. Therefore, to understand this heterologous nature, we focused on understanding the functional impact of the structural differences in the Ddl protein from Legionella pneumophila and E. coli bacteria. The structural features and dynamic behavior of Ddl, the interaction pattern, and the docking score of the Ddl‐ATP/ADP are also found significantly different from each other. In‐depth analysis viz molecular dynamics simulation and residue interaction network (RIN) studies provided us the detailed insight into the differences in the Ddl proteins from both the bacteria. In conclusion, understanding the inter‐specific differences in the antibiotic targets Ddl in the case of diverse bacterial strains is vital for rationalizing the treatment of these infectious diseases. Therefore, the current work attempts to foresee the development of more efficacious antibacterial agents devoid of emerging resistance to bacterium strains.
Chemical Fabrication of Efficient Blue‐luminescent Carbon Quantum Dots from Coal Washery Rejects (Waste) for Detection of Hg2+ and Cr6+ Ions in Water
Authors: Boruah Anusuya , Saikia Binoy K.
Published: April 2022

An economical facile method was established for the preparation of luminescent carbon quantum dots (CQDs) by utilizing the waste coal washery rejects as precursor materials. The derived CQDs were extensively characterized for their physio‐chemical properties and they (Mcqds and Dcqds) show an efficient maximum quantum yield of 11 % with an average particle size of 2.5‐3.0 nm. The derived CQDs exhibited better physical and chemical properties at maximum excitation and emission wavelengths of 360 nm and 450 nm, respectively, with blue‐light emission. The as‐synthesized CQDs (Mcqds) were applied as a fluorescent sensing probe for sensitive detection of Hg2+ and Cr6+ ions in water samples, showing reasonable limit of detection and quantification with recovery percentage of 96–100 %. The study has shown potential for using such cheap waste‐material derived CQDs as for further development of sensing devices in future.
Modulation of Electrochemical and Spectroscopic Properties in Ru(II)‐Terpyridyl End‐Capped Homobimetallic Organometallic Complexes by Varying π‐Conjugated Organic Spacers
Authors: Sil Amit , Roy Sourav Saha , Mishra Vipin Kumar , Islam Sk Najmul , Mishra Sabyashachi , Patra Sanjib K.
Published: April 2022

A series of wire‐like binuclear Ru(II) complexes, 10–13, of general formula [(tpy‐C6H4‐Me)(PPh3)2Ru−C≡C−Ar‐C≡C−Ru(PPh3)2(tpy‐C6H4‐Me)]2+, (tpy‐C6H4‐Me=4′(4‐tolyl)‐2,2′‐6′,2′′‐terpyridyl; Ar=thienyl, phenyl, benzothiadiazolyl and fluorenyl respectively) have been judiciously designed, developed and characterized by various spectroscopic tools. The aromatic bridging moieties have been varied systematically to tune not only the chain length but also the electronic nature of the spacer units. To understand the intermetallic electronic properties, electrochemical and UV‐Vis‐NIR spectroscopic studies have been explored. Electrochemical studies reveal reversible redox waves for 10, and quasi‐reversible to irrreversible redox waves for 11–13 in the region of 0.30‐0.60 V and 0.55‐0.75 V (with respect to reference electrode of Ag/AgCl), presumably due to successive one electron oxidation of the Ru(II) conjugates. Interestingly, complexes 10 and 11 show promising NIR absorption (ϵ in order of 103 M−1cm−1). Electron transfer in the diruthenium wire‐like complexes can be perturbed to different extent by varying the spacer units. The computational studies (DFT and TDDFT) further support the structure property relationship, electrochemical and spectrsopic properties which is mediated through the participation of the bridging ligand in the corresponding mono‐oxidized organometallic wire‐like complexes.
Stereoselective Synthesis of α‐ʟ‐Rhamnopyranosides from ʟ‐Rhamnal Employing Ruthenium‐Catalysis
Authors: Kumar Manoj , Kumar Nitin , Gurawa Aakanksha , Kashyap Sudhir
Published: April 2022

An alternative and highly efficient ʟ‐rhamnosylation highlighting the dual‐catalysis of ruthenium reagent under a stereocontrolled process has been realized. The Ru‐mediated direct glycosylation‐dihydroxylation from ʟ‐rhamnal is amenable to a wide range of acceptors, including sugars, amino acids, natural products, and bioactive scaffolds. The one‐pot protocol tolerating diverse functional groups is attractive due to the valuable synthetic utility in assembling biologically significant α‐ʟ‐rhamnopyranosides in good yields. The mechanistic rationalization for the α‐anomeric selectivity and syn‐diastereoselective dihydroxylation employing Ru‐catalysis has been presented.
Sliding Cyclodextrin Molecules along Polymer Chains to Enhance the Stretchability of Conductive Composites
Authors: Du Ruichun , Jin Qi , Zhu Tangsong , Wang Changxian , Li Sheng , Li Yanzhen , Huang Xinxin , Jiang Ying , Li Wenlong , Bao Tianwei , Cao Pengfei , Pan Lijia , Chen Xiaodong , Zhang Qiuhong , Jia Xudong
Published: April 2022

The demand for stretchable electronics with a broader working range is increasing for wide application in wearable sensors and e‐skin. However, stretchable conductors based on soft elastomers always exhibit low working range due to the inhomogeneous breakage of the conductive network when stretched. Here, a highly stretchable and self‐healable conductor is reported by adopting polyrotaxane and disulfide bonds into the binding layer. The binding layer (PR‐SS) builds the bridge between polymer substrates (PU‐SS) and silver nanowires (AgNWs). The incorporation of sliding molecules endows the stretchable conductor with a long sensing range (190%) due to the energy dissipation derived from the sliding nature of polyrotaxanes, which is two times higher than the working range (93%) of conductors based on AP‐SS without polyrotaxanes. Furthermore, the mechanism of sliding effect for the polyrotaxanes in the elastomers is investigated by SEM for morphological change of AgNWs, in situ small‐angle x‐ray scattering, as well as stress relaxation experiments. Finally, human‐body‐related sensing tests and a self‐correction system in fitness are designed and demonstrated.
Effect of Rolling Temperature on Microstructural Characteristics and Deformation Mechanisms of a Metastable Austenitic Stainless Steel
Authors: Sun Guosheng , Sun Xue , Li Shunqiang , Wu Yinjie , Liu Jizi
Published: April 2022

Herein, the significant effects of rolling temperature and equivalent strain on the deformation microstructural evolution of a 304 stainless steel are characterized by X‐Ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, electron backscatter diffraction, and transmission electron microscopy, and the relationships between temperature, stacking fault energy (SFE), and deformation mechanisms are discussed. The SFE of experimental steel gradually increases from ≈19 to ≈48 mJ m−2 with increasing temperature from room temperature (20 °C) to 600 °C. A transition in deformation mechanisms occurs from martensitic transformation to deformation twinning and finally dislocation glide‐only, which is attributed to the increasing SFE caused by higher deformation temperature. Dislocation glide and deformation‐induced martensitic transformation dominate the plastic deformation during cold‐rolling at room temperature. Deformation twinning is observed in the higher temperature range where the SFE is between 28 and 38 mJ m−2, acting as a complementary deformation mechanism to dislocation glide. When the rolling temperature is increased to 600 °C, deformation twinning is inhibited. Dislocation slip becomes the sole deformation mechanism due to the high SFE. Meanwhile, the dislocation cells and highly dense dislocation walls are formed due to the high SFE.
Spacer Organic Cation Engineering for Quasi‐2D Metal Halide Perovskites and the Optoelectronic Application
Authors: Zhou Ning , Zhou Huanping
Published: April 2022

Recently, organic and inorganic halide perovskites are one of the most popular semiconductors owing to their enormous potential for optoelectronic application, such as photovoltaics (PV), light‐emitting diode (LED), photodetector, and so on. The photoelectric conversion efficiency of 3D organic–inorganic hybrid perovskite solar cells has increased rapidly; however, the commercialization of the related devices is largely hampered by the poor stability of perovskite materials under environmental stress. Compared to 3D halide perovskites, quasi‐2D (Q‐2D) perovskites have improved moisture stability and less tendency for ion migration, which offers a new approach to stabilize perovskite‐based optoelectronic devices. Furthermore, Q‐2D hybrid perovskites have diverse structures with different quantum confinement and dielectric confinement characteristics, which enables the fine‐tuning of their optoelectronic properties through structure engineering. Depending on the different structures of spacer organic cations, the Q‐2D perovskite structure mainly includes Ruddlesden−Popper (RP) phase structure, Dion−Jacobson (DJ) phase structure, and alternating cation in the interlayer space (ACI) phase structure. In this review, the state‐of‐the‐art in Q‐2D perovskites is discussed based on their structural engineering, and an overview of PV and LEDs applications is provided. Finally, a brief outlook with respect to the development of Q‐2D perovskite materials, as well as advanced device, is provided.
Experimental and theoretical study of bond stress distribution between recycled concrete and deformed steel bar after freeze–thaw damage
Authors: Li Zuohua , Deng Zhiheng , Yang Haifeng
Published: April 2022

Pull‐out tests were conducted on 36 bond‐slip specimens with unslotted steel bars and 12 with slotted steel bars to analyze the effects of anchorage length and freeze–thaw damage on bond strength, and investigate the distributions of bond stress and slip between steel bar and recycled concrete at peak pull‐out load. The results show that, the bond strength decreases with the increase of freeze–thaw damage and anchorage length, and the effect of freeze–thaw damage on long‐anchored members is less than that on short‐anchored members. The presence of the arching effect changed the shape of the bond stress distribution curve, causing a second peak at the free end, and the arching effect was reduced accordingly after freeze–thaw damage. The calculated values using the modified softening sleeve theory proposed in this study are in good agreement with the experimental values.
Glyphosate‐based herbicides induces autophagy in IPEC‐J2 cells and the intervention of N‐acetylcysteine
Authors: Bai Guangdong , Zhou Ruiying , Jiang Xu , Zou Yingbin , Shi Baoming
Published: April 2022

Glyphosate‐based herbicides (GBHs) are the most widely used pesticide in the world, and its extensive use has increased pressures on environmental safety and potential human and livestock health risks. This study investigated the effects of GBHs on antioxidant capacity, inflammatory cytokines, and autophagy of porcine intestinal epithelial cells (IPEC‐J2) and its molecular mechanism. Also, the protective effects of N‐acetylcysteine (NAC) against the toxicity of GBHs were evaluated. Our results showed that the activities of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, GSH‐Px) were decreased by GBHs. GBHs increased inflammatory factors (IL‐1β, IL‐6, TNF‐α) and the mRNA expression of iNOS and COX‐2. GBHs induced the up‐regulation of Nrf2/HO‐1 pathway and the phosphorylation of IκB‐α and NFκB p65, up‐regulation of LC3‐II/LC3‐I, and down‐regulation of P62, and NFκB inhibitor decreased the mRNA expression of inflammatory cytokines (IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐8). Moreover, NAC reduced the cytotoxicity by suppressing ROS levels, and changed the autophagy‐related proteins such as the suppression of LC3‐II conversion and up‐regulation of P62. Our findings unveil a novel mechanism of GBHs effects on IPEC‐J2 cells and NAC can reverse cytotoxicity to some extent.
High Periventricular T1 Relaxation Times Predict Gait Improvement After Spinal Tap in Patients with Idiopathic Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus
Authors: Maier Ilko L. , Heide Marielle , Hofer Sabine , Dechent Peter , Fiss Ingo , von der Brelie Christian , Rohde Veit , Frahm Jens , Bähr Mathias , Liman Jan
Published: April 2022

Purpose

The diagnosis of idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH) can be challenging. Aim of this study was to use a novel T1 mapping method to enrich the diagnostic work-up of patients with suspected iNPH.

Methods

Using 3T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) we prospectively evaluated rapid high-resolution T1 mapping at 0.5 mm resolution and 4 s acquisition time in 15 patients with suspected iNPH and 8 age-matched, healthy controls. T1 mapping in axial sections of the cerebrum, clinical and neuropsychological testing were performed prior to and after cerebrospinal fluid tap test (CSF-TT). T1 relaxation times were measured in 5 predefined periventricular regions.

Results

All 15 patients with suspected iNPH showed gait impairment, 13 (86.6%) showed signs of cognitive impairment and 8 (53.3%) patients had urinary incontinence. Gait improvement was noted in 12 patients (80%) after CSF-TT. T1 relaxation times in all periventricular regions were elevated in patients with iNPH compared to controls with the most pronounced differences in the anterior (1006 ± 93 ms vs. 911 ± 77 ms; p = 0.023) and posterior horns (983 ± 103 ms vs. 893 ± 68 ms; p = 0.037) of the lateral ventricles. Montreal cognitive assessment (MoCA) scores at baseline were negatively correlated with T1 relaxation times (r < −0.5, p < 0.02). Higher T1 relaxation times were significantly correlated with an improvement of the 3‑m timed up and go test (r > 0.6 and p < 0.03) after CSF-TT.

Conclusion

In iNPH-patients, periventricular T1 relaxation times are increased compared to age-matched controls and predict gait improvement after CSF-TT. T1 mapping might enrich iNPH work-up and might be useful to indicate permanent shunting.
Chemical changes of steamed timber during short-term photodegradation monitored by FTIR spectroscopy
Authors: Hofmann Tamas , Tolvaj Laszlo , Visi-Rajczi Eszter , Varga Denes
Published: April 2022

Black locust (Robinia pseudoacaciaL.), beech (Fagus sylvaticaL.), poplar (Populus x euramericana cv. pannonia) and spruce (Picea abiesKarst.) wood samples were treated in saturated steam at 100, 110 and 120 °C for 2 days. Steamed and unsteamed (control) specimens were irradiated using a UV emitter mercury lamp in order to determine the chemical changes generated by UV irradiation. The main goal of the research was to find out if steaming can improve the UV resistance of wood. Chemical changes were determined by diffuse reflectance FTIR spectroscopy. Steaming deacetylated the hemicellulose molecules of hardwood species. Steamed spruce specimens showed the same photodegradation properties as the unsteamed ones. Steaming reduced the photodegradation sensitivity of lignin considerably for black locust only. Steamed hardwood specimens presented greater absorption increase at 1705 cm−1compared to unsteamed samples, which corresponds to the photodegradation of hemicelluloses.
Efficacy and safety of skin-adhesive low-level light therapy for overactive bladder: a Phase III study
Authors: Hwang Woo Yeon , Kim Yong Beom , Lee Sa Ra , Suh Dong Hoon , Kim Kidong , No Jae Hong
Published: April 2022

Introduction and hypothesis

Overactive bladder (OAB) is a common condition that remains challenging to treat. We hypothesized that skin-adhesive low-level light therapy (LLLT) would be an effective treatment for OAB caused by bladder muscle contraction. Accordingly, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of an LLLT device for the treatment of OAB.

Methods

This prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter trial included patients with a clinical diagnosis of OAB who were treated at either of two university hospitals. Patients were instructed to apply an LLLT device (Color DNA-WSF) or a sham device at home three times daily for 12 weeks. The primary outcome was the change in the mean daily number of urge urinary incontinence (UUI) episodes between baseline and 12 weeks. The secondary outcomes were the mean changes in incontinence, voiding, and nocturia episodes from baseline and the likelihood of achieving a > 50% reduction in UUI and incontinence episodes after 12 weeks. All patients completed the Overactive Bladder Symptom Score (OABSS), Urogenital Distress Inventory-6 (UDI-6), and Impact Urinary Incontinence-7 (IIQ-7) questionnaires. Safety parameters included treatment-emergent adverse events.

Results

Compared with those in the sham group, the numbers of UUI and urinary incontinence episodes in the LLLT group were significantly decreased at week 12 (UUI, (-1.0 ± 1.7 vs. -0.4 ± 2.5, P = 0.003; urinary incontinence, -1.1 ± 1.9 vs. -0.5 ± 2.9, P=0.002). Furthermore, the OABSS, UDI-6, and IIQ-7 scores at week 12 tended to be better in the LLLT group than in the sham group. The incidence of device-related treatment-emergent adverse events was similar between groups.

Conclusions

LLLT may be clinically useful and safe for the treatment of OAB.
Amplitudes in YM and GR as a Minimal Model and Recursive Characterization
Authors: Nützi Andrea , Reiterer Michael
Published: April 2022

We study the tree scattering amplitudes of Yang–Mills and General Relativity as functions of complex momenta, using a homological and geometrical approach. This approach uses differential graded Lie algebras, one for YM and one for GR, whose Maurer Cartan equations are the classical field equations. The tree amplitudes are obtained as the $$L_\infty $$

L
∞

minimal model brackets, given by a trivalent Feynman tree expansion. We show that they are sections of a sheaf on the complex variety of momenta, and that their residues factor in a characteristic way. This requires classifying the irreducible codimension one subvarieties where poles occur; constructing dedicated gauges that make the factorization manifest; and proving a flexible version of gauge independence to be able to work with different gauges. The residue factorization yields a simple recursive characterization of the tree amplitudes of YM and GR, by exploiting Hartogs’ phenomenon for singular varieties. This is similar to and inspired by Britto–Cachazo–Feng–Witten recursion, but avoids BCFW’s trick of shifting momenta, hence avoids conditions at infinity under such shifts.
Consolidation of motor sequence learning eliminates susceptibility of SMAproper to TMS: a combined rTMS and cTBS study
Authors: Verwey Willem B. , Glinski Benedikt , Kuo Min-Fang , Salehinejad Mohammad Ali , Nitsche Michael A.
Published: April 2022

Earlier research suggested that after 210 practice trials, the supplementary motor area (SMA) is involved in executing all responses of familiar 6-key sequences in a discrete sequence production (DSP) task (Verwey, Lammens, and van Honk, 2002). This was indicated by slowing of each response 20 and 25 min after the SMA had been stimulated for 20 min using repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS). The present study used a similar approach to assess the effects of TMS to the more posterior SMAproper at the end of practice and also 24 h later. As expected stimulation of SMAproper with 20 min of 1 Hz rTMS and 40 s of continuous theta burst stimulation (cTBS) immediately after practice slowed sequence execution relative to a sham TMS condition, but stimulation on the day following practice did not cause slowing. This indicates that offline consolidation makes learning robust against stimulation of SMAproper. Execution of all responses in the sequence was disrupted 0, 20, and 40 min after rTMS, but after cTBS, this occurred only after 40 min. The results suggest that it is implicit sequence knowledge that is processed by the SMAproper and that consolidates.
Effect of soil bacteriomes on mycorrhizal colonization by Rhizophagus irregularis—interactive effects on maize (Zea mays L.) growth under salt stress
Authors: Chen Qian , Deng Xuhui , Elzenga J. Theo M. , van Elsas Jan Dirk
Published: April 2022

In this study, we investigated the interactive effects of the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus (AMF) Rhizophagus irregularis and soil bacteriomes on maize growth under salt stress (100 mM NaCl) and also the effect of salt and bacteriomes on the mycorrhizal infection levels. We found that soil bacteriomes directly promoted the growth of maize and indirectly enhanced maize biomass by increasing mycorrhizal colonization levels, irrespective of salt stress. Although R. irregularis by itself had no maize growth-promoting effect even at a high mycorrhizal colonization level in roots, its benefits to maize were reflected in other aspects, evidenced by the significantly increased rate of arbuscule formation (a proxy for a functional plant-AMF nutritional exchange) under salinity. A negative correlation between arbuscule colonization and root biomass suggested R. irregularis expands the role of maize roots. Besides, the positive correlation between the overall AMF colonization level and shoot biomass supported the tenet of a positive contribution of R. irregularis to maize growth. Our findings suggest that soil bacteriomes interactively work with R. irregularis, modulating the growth of maize by affecting the colonization of AMF in roots.
Seronegative myasthenic crisis: a multicenter analysis
Authors: Mergenthaler Philipp , Stetefeld Henning R. , Dohmen Christian , Kohler Siegfried , Schönenberger Silvia , Bösel Julian , Gerner Stefan T. , Huttner Hagen B. , Schneider Hauke , Reichmann Heinz , Fuhrer Hannah , Berger Benjamin , Zinke Jan , Alberty Anke , Kleiter Ingo , Schneider-Gold Christiane , Roth Christian , Dunkel Juliane , Steinbrecher Andreas , Thieme Andrea , Lee De-Hyung , Linker Ralf A. , Angstwurm Klemens , Meisel Andreas , Neumann Bernhard ,   for The German Myasthenic Crisis Study Group
Published: April 2022

Myasthenic crisis (MC) is a life-threatening condition for patients with myasthenia gravis (MG). Seronegative patients represent around 10–15% of MG, but data on outcome of seronegative MCs are lacking. We performed a subgroup analysis of patients who presented with MC with either acetylcholine-receptor-antibody-positive MG (AChR-MG) or seronegative MG between 2006 and 2015 in a retrospective German multicenter study. We identified 15 seronegative MG patients with 17 MCs and 142 AChR-MG with 159 MCs. Seronegative MCs were younger (54.3 ± 14.5 vs 66.5 ± 16.3 years; p = 0.0037), had a higher rate of thymus hyperplasia (29.4% vs 3.1%; p = 0.0009), and were more likely to be female (58.8% vs 37.7%; p = 0.12) compared to AChR-MCs. Time between diagnosis of MG and MC was significantly longer in seronegative patients (8.2 ± 7.6 vs 3.1 ± 4.4 years; p < 0.0001). We found no differences in duration of mechanical ventilation (16.2 ± 15.8 vs 16.5 ± 15.9 days; p = 0.94) and length of stay at intensive care unit (17.6 ± 15.2 vs 17.8 ± 15.4 days; p = 0.96), or in-hospital mortality (11.8% vs. 10.1%; p = 0.69). We conclude that MC in seronegative MG affects younger patients after a longer period of disease, but that crisis treatment efficacy and outcome do not differ compared to AChR-MCs.
A simple preparation step to remove excess liquid lipids in white adipose tissue enabling improved detection of metabolites via MALDI-FTICR imaging MS
Authors: Wang Qian , Sun Na , Kunzke Thomas , Buck Achim , Shen Jian , Prade Verena M. , Stöckl Barbara , Wang Jun , Feuchtinger Annette , Walch Axel
Published: April 2022

Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI) Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance (FTICR) imaging mass spectrometry (MS) is a powerful technology used to analyze metabolites in various tissues. However, it faces significant challenges in studying adipose tissues. Poor matrix distribution and crystallization caused by excess liquid lipids on the surface of tissue sections hamper m/z species detection, an adverse effect that particularly presents in lipid-rich white adipose tissue (WAT). In this study, we integrated a simple and low-cost preparation step into the existing MALDI-FTICR imaging MS pipeline. The new method—referred to as filter paper application—is characterized by an easy sample handling and high reproducibility. The aforementioned filter paper is placed onto the tissue prior to matrix application in order to remove the layer of excess liquid lipids. Consequently, MALDI-FTICR imaging MS detection was significantly improved, resulting in a higher number of detected m/z species and higher ion intensities. After analyzing various durations of filter paper application, 30 s was found to be optimal, resulting in the detection of more than 3700 m/z species. Apart from the most common lipids found in WAT, other molecules involved in various metabolic pathways were detected, including nucleotides, carbohydrates, and amino acids. Our study is the first to propose a solution to a specific limitation of MALDI-FTICR imaging MS in investigating lipid-rich WAT. The filter paper approach can be performed quickly and is particularly effective for achieving uniform matrix distribution on fresh frozen WAT while maintaining tissue integrity. It thus helps to gain insight into the metabolism in WAT.
Therapeutic drug monitoring of atomoxetine in children and adolescents with attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder: a naturalistic study
Authors: Ruppert Katrin , Geffert Christoph , Clement Hans-Willi , Bachmann Christian , Haberhausen Michael , Schulz Eberhard , Fleischhaker Christian , Biscaldi-Schäfer Monica
Published: April 2022

The selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor atomoxetine is potentially among the first-line pharmacotherapy options for ADHD. Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) with the quantification and interpretation of atomoxetine serum concentrations is used to determine an individual dose followed by an optimal effectiveness and minimal side effects. The aim of this retrospective pharmacokinetic–pharmacodynamic analysis was to derive age-appropriate recommendations for the implementation of TDM to improve the efficacy and tolerability of atomoxetine in children and adolescents. Using the analytical method of high-performance liquid chromatography with UV detection, 94 serum concentrations of 74 patients between 6 and 21 years of age were determined. Therapeutic effectiveness and side effects were evaluated according to the categories “low”, “moderate”, and “significant”. As part of TDM, a time interval with maximum concentrations of 1–3 h after the administration of atomoxetine was determined for blood sampling. In this time interval, a significant correlation between the weight-normalized dose and the serum concentrations was found. The efficacy as well as the tolerability proved to be mainly moderate or significant. A preliminary therapeutic reference range was between 100 and 400 ng/ml. Naturalistic studies have limitations. Therefore, and due to a limited study population, the results have to be regarded as preliminary observations that must be confirmed in further studies. The preliminary therapeutic reference range for children and adolescents proved to be narrower than the reference range for adult patients. However, due to good efficacy and tolerability an exact reference range remained difficult to determine.
Development of brown rot epidemics in Spanish peach orchards
Authors: Villarino M. , Usall J. , Casals C. , Lamarca N. , Melgarejo P. , De Cal A. , Segarra J.
Published: April 2022

A new approach to modelling epidemics of brown rot caused by Monilinia spp. in Ebro Valley peach orchards has been developed. This compartmental model was subdivided according to the phenological stages in which the disease can develop (blossom, immature fruit, and ripe fruit). Information host susceptibility, primary and secondary inoculum sources and latent infections in immature fruit was taken into account. The compartmental model is described by a system of differential equations, and is simple enough to allow an analytical study of the main epidemiological factors that determine the rate of disease progress during a single growing season. The proposed model fits well to the epidemic pattern of brown rot observed in north-eastern Spain. The transmission of the disease as a non-linear term implied that small changes in the infection rate had a large effect on the development of the disease. The model has confirmed the usefulness of removing mummies (infected fruit that remains in the crop during winter) from the field to reduce the final incidence of the disease. In addition, all control measures that reduce the rate of secondary infection in ripe fruit, either through the use of more resistant varieties or the use of fungicides, are effective in reducing brown rot incidence. The proposed epidemic model is flexible and allows to add complexities to the system and evaluate the effectiveness of different control strategies.
Root-rhizosphere-soil interactions in biopores
Authors: Wendel Anna S. , Bauke Sara L. , Amelung Wulf , Knief Claudia
Published: April 2022

Background

Even with extensive root growth, plants may fail to access subsoil water and nutrients when root-restricting soil layers are present. Biopores, created from decaying roots or soil fauna, reduce penetration resistance and channel root growth into the deeper soil. Further positive effects on plants result from biopore traits, as the pore walls are enriched in nutrients, microbial abundance, and activity relative to bulk soil. However, negative effects on plant growth have also been observed due to root clumping in biopores, less root-soil contact than in the surrounding bulk soil and leaching of nutrients.

Scope

We discuss methods for biopore research, properties of biopores and their impact plant performance based on a literature review and own data. We elucidate potential implications of altered root-soil contact for plant growth and the consequences of root growth in pores for the rhizosphere microbiome.

Conclusions

Biopores play an important but ambiguous role in soils. The effects of biopores on plant growth depend on soil properties such as compaction and moisture in an as-yet-unresolved manner. However, pore properties and root-soil contact are key parameters affecting plant yield. Knowledge gaps exist on signaling pathways controlling root growth in pores and on mechanisms modifying rhizosphere properties inside biopores. The degree to which negative effects of biopores on plant growth are compensated in the bulk soil is also unclear. Answering these questions requires interdisciplinary research efforts and novel imaging methods to improve our dynamic understanding of root growth and rhizosphere processes within biopores and at the rhizosphere-biopore interface.
Longitudinal associations between blood lysophosphatidylcholines and skeletal muscle mitochondrial function
Authors: Tian Qu , Mitchell Brendan A. , Zampino Marta , Ferrucci Luigi
Published: April 2022

Lysophosphatidylcholines
(LPCs) are phospholipids critical in the synthesis of cardiolipin, an essential component of mitochondrial membranes. Lower plasma LPCs have been cross-sectionally associated with lower skeletal muscle mitochondrial function, but whether lower LPCs and their decline over time are longitudinally associated with an accelerated decline of mitochondria function is unknown. We analyzed data from 184 participants in the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging (mean age: 74.5 years, 57% women, 25% black) who had repeated measures of plasma LPCs (16:0, 16:1, 17:0, 18:0, 18:1, 18:2, 20:3, 20:4, 24:0, and 28:1) by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry and repeated measures of skeletal muscle oxidative capacity (kPCr) assessed by 31P magnetic resonance spectroscopy over an average of 2.4 years. Rates of change in kPCr and each LPC were first estimated using simple linear regression. In multivariable linear regression models adjusted for baseline demographics and PCr % depletion, lower baseline LPC 16:1 and faster rates of decline in LPC 16:1 and 18:1 were significantly associated with a faster rate of decline in kPCr (B =  − 0.169, 95% CI: − 0.328, − 0.010, p = 0.038; B = 0.209, 95% CI: 0.065, 0.352, p = 0.005; B = 0.156, 95% CI: 0.011, 0.301, p = 0.035, respectively). Rates of change in other LPCs were not significantly associated with change in kPCr (all p > 0.05). Lower baseline concentrations and faster decline in selected plasma lysophosphatidylcholines over time are associated with faster decline in skeletal muscle mitochondrial function. Strategies to prevent the decline of plasma LPCs at an early stage may slow down mitochondrial function decline and impairment during aging.
Emergence in marketing: an institutional and ecosystem framework
Authors: Vargo Stephen L. , Peters Linda , Kjellberg Hans , Koskela-Huotari Kaisa , Nenonen Suvi , Polese Francesco , Sarno Debora , Vaughan Claudia
Published: April 2022

Many core marketing concepts (e.g., markets, relationships, customer experience, brand meaning, value) concern phenomena that are difficult to understand using linear and dyadic approaches, because they are emergent. That is, they arise, often unpredictably, from interactions within complex and dynamic contexts. This paper contributes to the marketing discipline through an explication of the concept of emergence as it applies to marketing theory. We accomplish this by first drawing on the existing literature on emergence in philosophy, sociology, and the theory of complex adaptive systems, and then link and extend this understanding to marketing using the theoretical framework ofservice-dominant (S-D) logic,particularly as enhanced by its service-ecosystems and institutionalization perspectives. Our work recognizes both emergence and institutionalization as integral or interrelated processes in the creation, maintenance, and disruption of markets and marketing phenomena. We conclude by discussing implications for marketing research and practice.
Crack image recognition on fracture mechanics cross valley edge detection by fractional differential with multi-scale analysis
Authors: Wang Weixing , Li Limin , Zhang Fei
Published: April 2022

The recognition of pavement cracks is crucial in road engineering and airport maintains. In order to successfully apply image processing technique for automatic crack detection, the first and hardest task is to recognize crack images in a huge number of pavement images. To do this, the image processing technique and Fracture mechanics are combined first time in this area, the studied method includes four steps: (1) The pavement crack image shrinking is carried out by a proposed multi-scale analysis algorithm, which is more effective for both preserving weak valley edges and reducing computing cost; (2) Then, a so called valley edge detection algorithm based on Fractional differential for finding local dark line/curve is studied for tracing crack segments, it considers template size, weighted average gray level value in each line in four different directions, the output can be a gradient magnitude image or a binary image; (3) In the binary image, the crack segments are refined based on a number of post processing functions to remove noise and fill segment gaps; and (4) After that, to quickly judge if the image has cracks, Fracture mechanics is applied to calculate the judgment parameter T, which is directly proportion to the image edge density, and the ratio between the average gradient magnitude value and the average gray level value in the candidate crack segment. In experiments, more than 400 pavement images (the resolution is 4096 × 2048 pixels) are tested, and the crack identification accuracy is up to 97%.
Using real-world data to monitor and improve quality of care in coronary artery disease: results from the Netherlands Heart Registration
Authors: Timmermans Marijke J. C. , Houterman Saskia , Daeter Edgar D. , Danse Peter W. , Li Wilson W. , Lipsic Erik , Roefs Maaike M. , van Veghel Dennis ,   the PCI Registration Committee of the Netherlands Heart Registration and the Cardiothoracic Surgery Registration Committee of the Netherlands Heart Registration
Published: April 2022

Worldwide, quality registries for cardiovascular diseases enable the use of real-world data to monitor and improve the quality of cardiac care. In the Netherlands Heart Registration (NHR), cardiologists and cardiothoracic surgeons register baseline, procedural and outcome data across all invasive cardiac interventional, electrophysiological and surgical procedures. This paper provides insight into the governance and processes as organised by the NHR in collaboration with the hospitals. To clarify the processes, examples are given from the percutaneous coronary intervention and coronary artery bypass grafting registries. Physicians who are mandated by their hospital to instruct the NHR to process their data are united in registration committees. The committees determine standard sets of variables and periodically discuss the completeness and quality of data and patient-relevant outcomes. In the case of significant variation in outcomes, processes of healthcare delivery are discussed and good practices are shared in a non-competitive and safe setting. To create new insights for further improvement in patient-relevant outcomes, quality projects are initiated on, for example, multivessel disease treatment, cardiogenic shock and diagnostic intracoronary procedures. Moreover, possibilities are explored to expand the quality registries through additional relevant indicators, such as resource use before and after the procedure, by enriching NHR data with other existing data resources.
De realiteit van overleven
Authors: Goijaerts Janna , Vonk Robert , ’S Jongers Tim
Published: April 2022

Samenvatting

Welvaart en gezondheid hangen onlosmakelijk met elkaar samen. Beleid om gezondheidsverschillen te verkleinen heeft zich lang gericht op individuele levensstijl, maar de laatste jaren neemt de aandacht voor de invloed van inkomenszekerheid, huisvesting, en de sociale en fysieke leefomgeving op gezondheid weer toe. In dit artikel staan we stil bij de relatie tussen bestaansonzekerheid, gezondheid én de manier waarop de overheid hieraan bijdraagt. De onderzoeksvraag wordt beantwoord door het analyseren van vijftien biografische interviews met mensen in bestaansonzekerheid in drie verschillende levensfasen: jong (18–30 jaar), midden (30–50 jaar), oud (50–70 jaar). De interviews geven een veelzijdig beeld van bestaansonzekerheid. De dynamiek die inherent is aan bestaansonzekerheid zorgt voor onduidelijke grenzen en onduidelijkheid in causale relaties, vooral waar het gezondheid betreft. Als gevolg van bestaansonzekerheid komen mensen in een ‘overlevingsmodus’ terecht. Hulp vanuit de overheid is vaak slecht toegankelijk vanuit de ervaring van de respondenten. Dit is zorgelijk, omdat juist de overlevingsmodus op de langere termijn meer risico’s op gezondheidsproblemen met zich meebrengt. De resultaten van ons onderzoek geven aanleiding tot drie bespiegelingen. Ten eerste is er de noodzaak om breder te denken over gezondheid en preventie. Daarnaast vergt de aanpak van gezondheidsachterstanden meer proactieve hulp. Tot slot moeten we meer onderscheid durven maken als het gaat om de hulp die wordt aangeboden.
„Shut up and dribble“ – zur Legende des „mündigen Athleten“
Authors: Stiller Timo
Published: April 2022

Wird die unspezifische Idee des „mündigen Athleten“ allseits zur Legitimation des Spitzensports und dessen Förderung bemüht, führt die konkrete Personifizierung der Mündigkeit nicht nur den Athleten selbst, sondern den Spitzensport an sich in ein Spannungsfeld. Ausgehend von einer hermeneutischen Analyse der Mündigkeit wird dargelegt, dass der Druck dieses Spannungsfelds umso größer ist, je zweckrationaler die Systemlogik des Spitzensports ausschließlich auf den Erfolg reduziert wird und mündige Athleten im Gegensatz zu erfolgreichen Athleten für den Spitzensport allenfalls wünschenswert, aber in keiner Weise notwendig sind. Konsequenterweise werden für die Zukunft des Spitzensports dann zwei Optionen zur Diskussion gestellt, von denen allein eine den Spitzensport und dessen Förderung in einer Zivilgesellschaft wie der Bundesrepublik Deutschland legitimiert. Dies setzt jedoch eine Ausweitung der Zielebene des Spitzensports voraus, in der die Idee der Mündigkeit dahingehend konkretisiert wird, weniger den Erfolg als vielmehr die Leistung einer reflexiven Auseinandersetzung mit dem eigenen spitzensportlichen Streben ins Zentrum zu rücken. Derartige Persönlichkeiten dürften dann tatsächlich als würdige Repräsentanten einer zivilgesellschaftlichen Leistungselite gelten und dann natürlich auch entsprechend gefördert werden.
A digital career choice: rural students’ perceptions of the value of digital media learning based on their career aspirations
Authors: Turner Krystle
Published: April 2022

Digital media skills are becoming more important in contemporary Australia. As the digital economy gains momentum, the 2020 Australian Digital Inclusion Index reports a continued gap between rural Australians and urban Australian, indicating the continued existence of the digital divide. However, almost half of all Year 10 Australian students did not have sufficient information and communication technology (ICT) skills in 2014. Thus, understanding how rural students who are interested in digital media careers learn and develop digital media skills is important for improving digital media education for isolated student groups. This research draws on 25 interviews with rural Queensland students contemplating careers both within and outside digital media industries. The findings show different forms of cultural capital students draw on to further their digital media skills, including extracurricular opportunities and self-learning. This research highlights the interviewed students’ perceptions of the value of digital media learning based on their career aspirations.
Teachers’ representations of genders and sexualities in primary school: the power of curriculum and an institutional ideological code
Authors: van Leent Lisa , Spina Nerida
Published: April 2022

Texts such as curriculum and policy documents work in complex ways to coordinate teachers’ work and approaches to diverse genders and sexualities. Although it might be assumed that official, mandated curricula determine teachers’ curriculum choices, little is known about the extent of textual influences on how teachers represent genders and sexualities in primary schooling. This institutional ethnographic study investigated how the Australian national curriculum coordinated teachers’ curriculum decisions in one Australian primary school. Drawing on the work of Dorothy E. Smith, we found that teachers and school leaders use multiple institutional texts to guide curriculum choices. Although diverse genders and sexualities are visible in the Australian Curriculum (minimally so), we found curriculum and related policy texts were shaped by an ideological code that conceals diverse sexualities and genders. We argue that dominant hetero-cis-normative practices embedded in chains of texts remain powerful, shaping representations of genders and sexualities in primary schooling.
The scope of health professions education requires complementary and diverse approaches to knowledge synthesis
Authors: Norman Geoffrey , Sherbino Jonathan , Varpio Lara
Published: April 2022

None
Testing Communication Concepts on COVID-19 Contact Tracing Among Black and Latinx/Hispanic People in the United States
Authors: Mullin Sandra , Wang Shuo , Morozova Irina , Berenson Julia , Asase Nana , Rodney Denene Jonielle , Arthur Sharon , Murukutla Nandita
Published: April 2022

Objective

Black and Latinx/Hispanic people were more than twice as likely to die from COVID-19 than White people, but because of legacies of discrimination and maltreatment in health care, were less likely to participate in some public health responses to COVID-19, including contact tracing. This study aimed to test three communication campaign concepts to engage Black and Latinx/Hispanic people in contact tracing efforts.

Methods

Twelve focus group discussions with 5 to 10 participants each were conducted online among participants from Black and Latinx/Hispanic urban populations in Philadelphia and New York state. Participants provided sociodemographic information and were presented with potential campaign concepts and prompted to rate the concepts and engage in open-ended discussion. For rating and sociodemographic data, chi-square tests were performed. For open-ended discussion data, a thematic analysis approach was used.

Results

Across groups, the campaign concept that was rated most likely to encourage cooperation with contact tracing efforts was “Be the One,” with 45% of total first-place votes. Participants expressed that the campaign caught their attention (79%), motivated them to engage with contact tracers (71%) and to talk to others about contact tracing (77%). Discussions also elucidated: the importance of community engagement; the need for clearer explanations of contact tracing; the preference for already trusted, community-based contact tracers; the need to reassure people about confidentiality; and for contact tracing to be culturally competent and empathetic.

Conclusions

This study highlights how strategic, culturally sensitive communication can buttress current and future contact tracing efforts, especially among Black and Latinx/Hispanic people.
Sandstorms cause shrinkage of Haloxylon ammodendron shrubs and limit their self-renewal
Authors: Shi Sheng-bo , Zhou Dang-wei , Wang Fang-lin , Shi Rui , Sun Tao , Li Tian-cai , Ma Jia-lin , Wan Xiang , Ma Jian-ping , Tang Jing-nian
Published: April 2022

Haloxylon ammodendron is an excellent windproof and sand-fixing species whose shrubs are widely cultivated in arid desert areas of northwest China but are now at risk of degradation and shrinkage. Using the chlorophyll fluorescence image analysis technique, the response of photosystem II (PSII) photochemical efficiency and non-photochemical quenching capacity to sediment-carrying wind and sand-free wind (both 12 m s−1) lasting for 10, 20, and 40 min were studied with seedlings in a wind tunnel. The results indicated that the sand-free wind had little influence on the maximum quantum efficiency of PSII photochemistry, Fv/Fm, which was approximately 0.80 on average; however, the Fv/Fm decreased over exposure time in the sediment-carrying wind group, with values smaller than those in the wind-only group. The non-photochemical quenching was sensitive to wind erosion, and sediment-carrying wind could aggravate the reduction in non-photochemical quenching (NPQ). Except for the 10 min duration, the maximum quantum efficiency of PSII photochemistry after dark recovery for 15 min, Fvr/Fmr, was lower in seedlings exposed to sediment-carrying wind than in those in the wind-only group. Compared to wind-only, wind-blown sand led to a water imbalance and withering in seedlings, causing the concentration of photosynthetic pigments (when based on the fresh mass of green branches) to not decrease. With a longer exposure time to sediment-carrying wind, both the probability and extent of lignified spots occurring increased in green assimilative branches. Our results demonstrated that sediment-carrying wind at 12 m s−1 lasting for 20 min or more could cause irreversible damage to the photosynthetic apparatus of H. ammodendron seedlings. Therefore, frequent and strong sandstorms are the main disturbance factors leading to shrinkage of shrubs and limiting their self-renewal.