bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Resistant starch supplementation increases crypt cell proliferative state in the rectal mucosa of older healthy participants
Authors: Malcomson Fiona C. , Willis Naomi D. , McCallum Iain , Xie Long , Ouwehand Arthur C. , Stowell Julian D. , Kelly Seamus , Bradburn D. Michael , Belshaw Nigel J. , Johnson Ian T. , Mathers John C.
Published: April 2020

There is strong evidence that foods containing dietary fibre protect against colorectal cancer, resulting at least in part from its anti-proliferative properties. This study aimed to investigate the effects of supplementation with two non-digestible carbohydrates, resistant starch (RS) and polydextrose (PD), on crypt cell proliferative state (CCPS) in the macroscopically normal rectal mucosa of healthy individuals. We also investigated relationships between expression of regulators of apoptosis and of the cell cycle on markers of CCPS. Seventy-five healthy participants were supplemented with RS and/or PD or placebo for 50 d in a 2 × 2 factorial design in a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial (the Dietary Intervention, Stem cells and Colorectal Cancer (DISC) Study). CCPS was assessed, and the expression of regulators of the cell cycle and of apoptosis was measured by quantitative PCR in rectal mucosal biopsies. SCFA concentrations were quantified in faecal samples collected pre- and post-intervention. Supplementation with RS increased the total number of mitotic cells within the crypt by 60 % (P = 0·001) compared with placebo. This effect was limited to older participants (aged ≥50 years). No other differences were observed for the treatments with PD or RS as compared with their respective controls. PD did not influence any of the measured variables. RS, however, increased cell proliferation in the crypts of the macroscopically-normal rectum of older adults. Our findings suggest that the effects of RS on CCPS are not only dose, type of RS and health status-specific but are also influenced by age.
Promoting a Public Service Ethic in the Legal Profession in Kenya: The Imperative Role of Clinical Legal Education
Authors: Osiemo Lynette , Kok Anton
Published: April 2020

The taskforce appointed in 2016 to undertake a review of the legal sector in Kenya highlighted a decline in public service and pro bono work as one of the challenges facing the legal profession in the country. In its report, the taskforce made several proposals to tackle the problem, all directed at qualified lawyers. This article seeks to contribute to the deliberations anticipated from the findings of the taskforce, by suggesting instead that the problem of a declining public service ethic be addressed by targeting law students. Bringing students face to face with real clients and their needs can play an important role in broadening their horizons and shaping their beliefs about, and attitudes towards, the different possible careers they can pursue with their education. The article specifically recommends clinical legal education as a practical and comprehensive means by which students can be encouraged from early on to have an interest in pro bono and public service work.
SPATIAL DEPENDENCE IN OPTION OBSERVATION ERRORS
Authors: Andersen Torben G. , Fusari Nicola , Todorov Viktor , Varneskov Rasmus T.
Published: April 2020

In this paper, we develop the first formal nonparametric test for whether the observation errors in option panels display spatial dependence. The panel consists of options with different strikes and tenors written on a given underlying asset. The asymptotic design is of the infill type—the mesh of the strike grid for the observed options shrinks asymptotically to zero, while the set of observation times and tenors for the option panel remains fixed. We propose a Portmanteau test for the null hypothesis of no spatial autocorrelation in the observation error. The test makes use of the smoothness of the true (unobserved) option price as a function of its strike and is robust to the presence of heteroskedasticity of unknown form in the observation error. A Monte Carlo study shows good finite-sample properties of the developed testing procedure and an empirical application to S&P 500 index option data reveals mild spatial dependence in the observation error, which has been declining in recent years.
Constrained language use in Finnish: A corpus-driven approach
Authors: Ivaska Ilmari , Bernardini Silvia
Published: April 2020

It has been suggested that second languages and translated languages are constrained by an interplay of several linguistic systems. This paper reports on a data-driven quantitative study on constrained Finnish. We detect linguistic phenomena that distinguish constrained from non-constrained Finnish across constrained varieties, first/source languages, and registers. Implementing a two-phase method, we first detect key quantitative differences of syntactically defined POS bigrams between each variety-, language-pair- and register-specific constrained dataset and its non-constrained counterpart, using Boruta feature selection. We then use the results as variables in a Multi-dimensional Analysis. The results show that both nominal complexity and verbal/clausal complexity distinguish constrained from non-constrained Finnish. These differences interact with both type of constraint and register: the constrained varieties are less sensitive to register differences, and this tendency is more pronounced in learner Finnish than in translated Finnish. Leaving out any of these variables from the analysis would blur our view of this multi-faceted phenomenon.
Oral and nasal probiotic administration for the prevention and alleviation of allergic diseases, asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Jamalkandi Sadegh Azimzadeh , Ahmadi Ali , Ahrari Iman , Salimian Jafar , Karimi Mehrdad , Ghanei Mostafa
Published: April 2020

Interaction between a healthy microbiome and the immune system leads to body homeostasis, as dysbiosis in microbiome content and loss of diversity may result in disease development. Due to the ability of probiotics to help and modify microbiome constitution, probiotics are now widely used for the prevention and treatment of different gastrointestinal, inflammatory, and, more recently, respiratory diseases. In this regard, chronic respiratory diseases including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma and allergic rhinitis are among the most common and complicated respiratory diseases with no specific treatment until now. Accordingly, many studies have evaluated the therapeutic efficacy of probiotic administration (mostly via the oral route and much lesser nasal route) on chronic respiratory diseases. We tried to summarise and evaluate these studies to give a perspective of probiotic therapy via both the oral and nasal routes for respiratory infections (in general) and chronic respiratory diseases (specifically). We finally concluded that probiotics might be useful for allergic diseases. For asthmatic patients, probiotics can modulate serum cytokines and IgE and decrease eosinophilia, but with no significant reduction in clinical symptoms. For COPD, only limited studies were found with uncertain clinical efficacy. For intranasal administration, although some studies propose more efficiency than the oral route, more clinical evaluations are warranted.
Effect of Extreme Temperature on Naloxone Nasal Spray Dispensing Device Performance
Authors: Estephan Michael , Loner Carly , Acquisto Nicole M.
Published: April 2020

Introduction:

The opioid epidemic has led to the wide-spread distribution of naloxone to emergency personnel and to the general public. Recommended storage conditions based on prescribing information are between 15°C and 25°C (59°F and 77°F), with excursions permitted between 4°C and 40°C (39°F and 104°F). Actual storage likely varies widely with potential exposures to extreme temperatures outside of these ranges. These potentially prolonged extreme temperatures may alter the volume of naloxone dispensed from the nasal spray device, which could result in suboptimal efficacy.

Study Objective:

The aim of this study was to assess the naloxone volume deployed following nasal spray device storage at extreme temperatures over an extended period of time.

Methods:

Naloxone nasal spray devices were exposed to storage temperatures of −29°C (−20°F), 20°C (68°F), and 71°C (160°F) to simulate extreme temperatures and a control for 10 hours. First, the density was measured under each temperature condition. Following the density calculation part of the experiment, the mass of naloxone dispensed from each nasal spray device at each temperature was captured and used to calculate volume: calculated volume (microliter, µl) = spray mass (mg converted to g)/mean density (g/mL). Measurements and calculations are reported as means with standard deviation and standard error, and a one-way ANOVA was used to evaluate mean dispensed volume differences at different temperatures.

Results:

There was no difference in the mean volume deployed at −29°C (−20°F), 20°C (68°F), and 71°C (160°F), and measurements were 101.44µl (SD = 9.56; SE = 5.52), 99.01µl (SD = 6.31; SE = 3.64), and 108.28µl (SD = 2.04; SE = 1.18), respectively; P value = .289, F-statistic value = 1.535.

Conclusion:

The results of this study suggest that naloxone nasal spray devices will dispense the appropriate volume, even when stored at extreme temperatures outside of the manufacturer’s recommended range.
The Efficacy of Novel Commercial Tourniquet Designs for Extremity Hemorrhage Control: Implications for Spontaneous Responder Every Day Carry
Authors: Ellis Joshua , Morrow Melissa M. , Belau Alec , Sztajnkrycer Luke S. , Wood Jeffrey N. , Kummer Tobias , Sztajnkrycer Matthew D.
Published: April 2020

Introduction:

Tourniquets (TQs) save lives. Although military-approved TQs appear more effective than improvised TQs in controlling exsanguinating extremity hemorrhage, their bulk may preclude every day carry (EDC) by civilian lay-providers, limiting availability during emergencies.

Study Objective:

The purpose of the current study was to compare the efficacy of three novel commercial TQ designs to a military-approved TQ.

Methods:

Nine Emergency Medicine residents evaluated four different TQ designs: Gen 7 Combat Application Tourniquet (CAT7; control), Stretch Wrap and Tuck Tourniquet (SWAT-T), Gen 2 Rapid Application Tourniquet System (RATS), and Tourni-Key (TK). Popliteal artery flow cessation was determined using a ZONARE ZS3 ultrasound. Steady state maximal generated force was measured for 30 seconds with a thin-film force sensor.

Results:

Success rates for distal arterial flow cessation were 89% CAT7; 67% SWAT-T; 89% RATS; and 78% TK (H 0.89; P = .83). Mean (SD) application times were 10.4 (SD = 1.7) seconds CAT7; 23.1 (SD = 9.0) seconds SWAT-T; 11.1 (SD = 3.8) seconds RATS; and 20.0 (SD = 7.1) seconds TK (F 9.71; P <.001). Steady state maximal forces were 29.9 (SD = 1.2) N CAT7; 23.4 (SD = 0.8) N SWAT-T; 33.0 (SD = 1.3) N RATS; and 41.9 (SD = 1.3) N TK.

Conclusion:

All novel TQ systems were non-inferior to the military-approved CAT7. Mean application times were less than 30 seconds for all four designs. The size of these novel TQs may make them more conducive to lay-provider EDC, thereby increasing community resiliency and improving the response to high-threat events.
IS PRODUCTIVITY ON VACATION? THE IMPACT OF THE DIGITAL ECONOMY ON THE VALUE OF LEISURE
Authors: Bridgman Benjamin
Published: April 2020

Many recent digital innovations (like video games) augment the value of leisure time, which is not captured by Gross Domestic Product. Therefore, the productivity impact of such innovations may be understated. I develop the theoretical foundations for measuring the value of leisure when it is produced using the household’s leisure time and recreational durable goods. I apply this framework to estimate the value of US leisure from 1948 to 2016. While the value of leisure is large, it has become less important over time. I find that productivity growth of leisure time has slowed in the digital era. Household stocks of digital goods are small, so have relatively little impact on leisure value. I conclude that mismeasurement due to household digital goods is not a first-order cause of the recent productivity slowdown.
Building Social Policies in Fiscal Welfare
Authors: Sinfield Adrian
Published: April 2020

The ways that social spending policies are run by fiscal welfare through the tax system remain relatively neglected, while the costs and impact of public expenditure are constantly under scrutiny. Mostly means-enhancing in contrast to much means-tested public spending, the costs of social tax reliefs are little examined, their distributional impact even less so. This article considers what is needed to provide a better basis for the development of robust and flexible policies for establishing, managing and evaluating fiscal welfare that can contribute to building a more open and equal society. Particular attention is given to increasing accountability and assessing tax and public spending activities together when they benefit the same target group; and to reducing inconsistencies of treatment in comparable tax and public schemes.
Examining Attitudes towards Welfare in an In/Security Regime: Evidence from Ghana
Authors: Amoah Padmore Adusei
Published: April 2020

This article examines the extent to which Gough and Woodʼs (2004) classification of most sub-Saharan African nations as insecurity regimes is still relevant by analysing public responses and attitudes towards general and specific (healthcare) welfare policies in Ghana, using a mixed-method design. Ghana presents a fascinating case study not only due to the changing socio-economic landscape but also because of the prevailing socio-political stability. The research findings demonstrate that most participants wanted more welfare spending (including on healthcare) but remained reluctant to rely on government provisions due to distrust and perceived inefficiencies in the public sector. The findings also depict the continuing reliance on family and social networks as safety nets and sometimes in preference to state arrangements. The article argues that Ghanaʼs welfare regime may be gradually shifting from the classic insecurity regime (albeit still relevant) to one resembling the less effective informal security regime – at least from the publicʼs experiences – and demands a careful integration of individual, familial, and community networks in current and future formal welfare arrangements.
Group CBT for mild to moderate depression and anxiety: an evaluation of patient satisfaction within a primary care mental health team
Authors: Young-Southward Genevieve , Jackson Alison , Dunan Julie
Published: April 2020

In the UK there has been a drive towards facilitating swift access to psychological therapies. Groups are an efficient way to provide psychological interventions to a wide range of people and are recommended treatments for mild depression and anxiety, presentations commonly seen in primary care mental health teams. Group cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) has been shown to be clinically effective, but less is known about the acceptability of groups to patients. This study evaluated patient satisfaction with CBT groups running within a primary care mental health team in Scotland. Data from a routinely administered patient satisfaction questionnaire were collected. Likert-scale responses were analysed via frequencies and percentages, and free text responses were analysed via thematic analysis. Among those who completed a group, overall satisfaction was high. The qualitative analysis revealed that for many a group environment was therapeutic in itself, and the intervention provided service users with a range of skills with which to tackle their difficulties. However, others indicated that a group environment was unsuitable for their needs, and perceptions around the accessibility and relevance of group content were mixed. Indeed, drop-out rates were high, and perceptions of groups among those who did not attend the final session are not included in this analysis. Group dynamics may be both a facilitator of and a barrier to therapeutic benefit, depending on individual factors. Future studies could evaluate satisfaction among service users who drop out of interventions in order to inform future service delivery.

Key learning aims

(1)

To understand the utility of delivering CBT in a group format for mild to moderate depression and anxiety.

(2)

To understand service users’ perceptions regarding group CBT interventions via a mixed method inquiry.

(3)

To reflect on how group dynamics within group CBT may be both a facilitator of and a barrier to therapeutic benefit.
Helping clients ‘restart their engine’ – use of in-session cognitive behavioural therapy behavioural experiments for engagement and treatment in persistent depression: a case study
Authors: Skilbeck Lilian , Spanton Christopher , Roylance Ian
Published: April 2020

Behavioural experiments (BEs) are a major cognitive ingredient in the cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) model which can be applied in-session or between-sessions. In-session BEs are particularly effective and widely demonstrated in anxiety disorders, yet they remain under-utilised in depression. Clients presenting with persistent depression are often difficult to engage due to the chronicity of their symptoms and their learnt self-perpetuating demoralised states. Research to date demonstrates the effectiveness of in-session BEs in engagement and treatment in depression. This case study details the treatment of a client presenting with persistent major depressive disorder (MDD) with hopelessness and how in-session BEs effected engagement and treatment. This case study is discussed with reference to strengths, limitations, clinical implications and recommendations for practice and development.

Key learning aims

It is hoped that the reader of this case study will increase their understanding of the following:

(1)

Using BEs to help engagement and treatment in persistent MDD.

(2)

Instilling hope by starting in-session BEs during the assessment stage.

(3)

When to plan or seize opportunities for off-the-cuffin-session BEs.

(4)

Setting no-lose BEs to enable clients to widen their perceptual field.

(5)

The importance of repeated BEs to consolidate experiential learning.
Dedicated 70 MHz RF systems for hyperthermia of challenging tumor locations
Authors: Crezee Johannes , Zweije Remko , Sijbrands Jan , Kok H. Petra
Published: April 2020

Hyperthermia (i.e. heating of tumor tissue to 40–43°C) is used in clinical oncology to enhance the therapeutic effect of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Many tumor sites are heated either by a single RF or MW antenna positioned on the tumor location, or by a phased array positioned around the patient. Superficial tumors are generally heated with MW antennas (434–2450 MHz) and deep-seated tumors with RF antennas (70–150 MHz). These devices cover the major, more common tumor sites, but more rare locations require more dedicated applicators. We discuss dedicated RF systems aiming for heating semi-deep-seated tumors in the leg, breast, and upper thorax. Clinical results show that adequate heating is possible with these systems, with achieved temperatures in the therapeutic range.
Varieties of populism and the challenges to Global Constitutionalism: Dangers, promises and implications
Authors: KOCH CÉDRIC M
Published: April 2020

This article analyses the rise of populism and its discursive challenge to global constitutionalism (GC). It shows that populist contestation is more ambivalent than often suggested: its challenge depends on the populist variety and can both undermine or support liberal principles of GC. Building on the ideational approach to populism and a framework of transnational politicisation, a proposed typology identifies bothcommunitarian types of populismandcosmopolitan types of populism.Illustrative case studies of the Alternative for Germany, the Polish Law and Justice Party, the Democracy in Europe Movement and Peru’s Alberto Fujimori substantiate these empirically. While all cases contest a perceived lack of popular sovereignty in a largely non-majoritarian global constitutional order, varieties of populism present contrasting responses: communitarian types push for global de-constitutionalisation in line with illiberal nationalist majoritarianism, while cosmopolitan types support global constitutionalisation according to liberal and democratic principles. Further, neo-socialist populists campaign against neoliberal principles in GC, but remain divided about supporting political principles beyond the state. These findings suggest an emerging politicisation of the process of global constitutionalisation at the societal level according to principles of democratic legitimacy; and global constitutional differentiation depending on outcomes of these normatively ambivalent and empirically contingent political contests.
Control of glyphosate/glufosinate-resistant volunteer corn in corn resistant to aryloxyphenoxypropionates
Authors: Striegel Adam , Lawrence Nevin C. , Knezevic Stevan Z. , Krumm Jeffrey T. , Hein Gary , Jhala Amit J.
Published: April 2020

Corn-on-corn production systems, common in highly productive irrigated fields in South Central Nebraska, can create issues with volunteer corn management in corn fields. EnlistTM corn is a new multiple herbicide–resistance trait providing resistance to 2,4-D, glyphosate, and the aryloxyphenoxypropionate herbicides (FOPs), commonly integrated in glufosinate-resistant germplasm. The objectives of this study were to (1) evaluate ACCase-inhibiting herbicides for glyphosate/glufosinate-resistant volunteer corn control in Enlist corn and (2) evaluate the effect of ACCase-inhibiting herbicide application timing (early POST vs. late POST) on volunteer corn control, Enlist corn injury, and yield. Field experiments were conducted in 2018 and 2019 at South Central Agricultural Laboratory near Clay Center, NE. Glyphosate/glufosinate-resistant corn harvested the year prior was cross-planted at 49,000 seeds ha–1 to mimic volunteer corn in this study. After 7 to 10 d had passed, Enlist corn was planted at 91,000 seeds ha–1. Application timing of FOPs (fluazifop, quizalofop, and fluazifop/fenoxaprop) had no effect on Enlist corn injury or yield, and provided 97% to 99% control of glyphosate/glufosinate-resistant volunteer corn at 28 d after treatment (DAT). Cyclohexanediones (clethodim and sethoxydim; DIMs) and phenylpyrazolin (pinoxaden; DEN) provided 84% to 98% and 65% to 71% control of volunteer corn at 28 DAT, respectively; however, the treatment resulted in 62% to 96% Enlist corn injury and 69% to 98% yield reduction. Orthogonal contrasts comparing early-POST (30-cm-tall volunteer corn) and late-POST (50-cm-tall volunteer corn) applications of FOPs were not significant for volunteer corn control, Enlist corn injury, and yield. Fluazifop, quizalofop, and fluazifop/fenoxaprop resulted in 94% to 99% control of glyphosate/glufosinate-resistant volunteer corn with no associated Enlist corn injury or yield loss; however, quizalofop is the only labeled product as of 2020 for control of volunteer corn in Enlist corn.
Varying responses of field-selected herbicide-resistant rigid ryegrass (Lolium rigidum) populations to combinations of phorate with PPI herbicides
Authors: Brunton David J. , Boutsalis Peter , Gill Gurjeet , Preston Christopher
Published: April 2020

Organophosphate insecticides, which have the capacity to inhibit specific herbicide-degrading (cytochrome P450) enzymes, have been used to explore metabolic herbicide-resistance mechanisms in weeds. This study investigates the response of seven field-selected rigid ryegrass (Lolium rigidum Gaudin) populations to herbicides from three different sites of action in the presence or absence of the P450 inhibitor phorate. Phorate antagonized the thiocarbamate herbicides triallate and prosulfocarb (8-fold increase in LD50) in multiple resistant L. rigidum populations with resistance to three different site-of-action herbicides. In contrast, phorate synergized trifluralin and propyzamide in some populations, reducing the LD50 by 50%. Conversely, treatment with phorate had no significant effect on the LD50 for S-metolachlor or pyroxasulfone (inhibitors of very-long-chain fatty-acid synthesis). Phorate has diverse effects that are herbicide and population dependant in field-selected L. rigidum, suggesting P450 involvement in the metabolism of trifluralin and failure to activate thiocarbamate herbicides in these populations. This research highlights the need for implementation of diverse approaches other than herbicide alone as part of a long-term integrated strategy to reduce the likelihood of metabolism-based resistance to PPI herbicides in L. rigidum.
The Role of Enculturation on the Help-Seeking Attitudes Among Filipino Americans in Guam
Authors: De Luna Mc Jason F. , Kawabata Yoshito
Published: April 2020

The present study examined the association between enculturation and mental health help-seeking attitudes and the mediation of self-stigma on this association among Filipino American college students in Guam. A total of 110 self-identified Filipino American students in a public university completed an online survey, including questionnaires to assess enculturation, mental health help-seeking attitudes, and self-stigma. As hypothesized, enculturation was negatively associated with mental health help-seeking attitudes, and this association was fully mediated by self-stigma, above and beyond the contributions of covariates, such as age, socioeconomic status, generational status, gender, English fluency, and mental health problems. In other words, higher levels of enculturation were associated with greater levels of self-stigma, which in turn led to lower levels of positive help-seeking attitudes. Clinical and counseling implications for mental health help-seeking among Filipino Americans in Guam or Pacific islands are discussed.
Using Google Search Volume to Inform Early Detection Interventions for Public Health Crises: A Policy Brief
Authors: Ma-Kellams Christine
Published: April 2020

Google search volume offers a novel, efficient, and affordable way of informing early detection and intervention efforts for public health issues, including but not limited to suicide, skin cancer, and the flu. By elucidating regions where searches for terms related to these issues are most common, search trends can be a diagnostic tool for indicating where the need for policy interventions are most needed. Given that such data are both highly accessible (i.e., cost, availability and timeliness) as well as valid in terms of its predictive validity, it may be a particularly useful tool.
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma as a theragnostic target for mesenchymal-type glioblastoma patients
Authors: Hua Tuyen N. M. , Oh Jiwoong , Kim Sohyun , Antonio Jayson M. , Vo Vu T. A. , Om Jiyeon , Choi Jong-Whan , Kim Jeong-Yub , Jung Chan-Woong , Park Myung-Jin , Jeong Yangsik
Published: April 2020

Glioblastomas (GBMs) are characterized by four subtypes, proneural (PN), neural, classical, and mesenchymal (MES) GBMs, and they all have distinct activated signaling pathways. Among the subtypes, PN and MES GBMs show mutually exclusive genetic signatures, and the MES phenotype is, in general, believed to be associated with more aggressive features of GBM: tumor recurrence and drug resistance. Therefore, targeting MES GBMs would improve the overall prognosis of patients with fatal tumors. In this study, we propose peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) as a potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarker as well as therapeutic target for MES GBM; we used multiple approaches to assess PPARγ, including biostatistics analysis and assessment of preclinical studies. First, we found that PPARγ was exclusively expressed in MES glioblastoma stem cells (GSCs), and ligand activation of endogenous PPARγ suppressed cell growth and stemness in MES GSCs. Further in vivo studies involving orthotopic and heterotopic xenograft mouse models confirmed the therapeutic efficacy of targeting PPARγ; compared to control mice, those that received ligand treatment exhibited longer survival as well as decreased tumor burden. Mechanistically, PPARγ activation suppressed proneural–mesenchymal transition (PMT) by inhibiting the STAT3 signaling pathway. Biostatistical analysis using The Cancer Genomics Atlas (TCGA, n = 206) and REMBRANDT (n = 329) revealed that PPARγ upregulation is linked to poor overall survival and disease-free survival of GBM patients. Analysis was performed on prospective (n = 2) and retrospective (n = 6) GBM patient tissues, and we finally confirmed that PPARγ expression was distinctly upregulated in MES GBM. Collectively, this study provides insight into PPARγ as a potential therapeutic target for patients with MES GBM.
Ultrahigh-sensitive optical coherence elastography
Authors: Li Yan , Moon Sucbei , Chen Jason J. , Zhu Zhikai , Chen Zhongping
Published: April 2020

The phase stability of an optical coherence elastography (OCE) system is the key determining factor for achieving a precise elasticity measurement, and it can be affected by the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), timing jitters in the signal acquisition process, and fluctuations in the optical path difference (OPD) between the sample and reference arms. In this study, we developed an OCE system based on swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT) with a common-path configuration (SS-OCECP). Our system has a phase stability of 4.2 mrad without external stabilization or extensive post-processing, such as averaging. This phase stability allows us to detect a displacement as small as ~300 pm. A common-path interferometer was incorporated by integrating a 3-mm wedged window into the SS-OCT system to provide intrinsic compensation for polarization and dispersion mismatch, as well as to minimize phase fluctuations caused by the OPD variation. The wedged window generates two reference signals that produce two OCT images, allowing for averaging to improve the SNR. Furthermore, the electrical components are optimized to minimize the timing jitters and prevent edge collisions by adjusting the delays between the trigger, k-clock, and signal, utilizing a high-speed waveform digitizer, and incorporating a high-bandwidth balanced photodetector. We validated the SS-OCECP performance in a tissue-mimicking phantom and an in vivo rabbit model, and the results demonstrated a significantly improved phase stability compared to that of the conventional SS-OCE. To the best of our knowledge, we demonstrated the first SS-OCECP system, which possesses high-phase stability and can be utilized to significantly improve the sensitivity of elastography.
Genome sequence of Gossypium herbaceum and genome updates of Gossypium arboreum and Gossypium hirsutum provide insights into cotton A-genome evolution
Authors: Huang Gai , Wu Zhiguo , Percy Richard G. , Bai Mingzhou , Li Yang , Frelichowski James E. , Hu Jiang , Wang Kun , Yu John Z. , Zhu Yuxian
Published: April 2020

Upon assembling the firstGossypium herbaceum(A1) genome and substantially improving the existingGossypium arboreum(A2) andGossypium hirsutum((AD)1) genomes, we showed that all existing A-genomes may have originated from a common ancestor, referred to here as A0, which was more phylogenetically related to A1than A2. Further, allotetraploid formation was shown to have preceded the speciation of A1and A2. Both A-genomes evolved independently, with no ancestor–progeny relationship. Gaussian probability density function analysis indicates that several long-terminal-repeat bursts that occurred from 5.7 million years ago to less than 0.61 million years ago contributed compellingly to A-genome size expansion, speciation and evolution. Abundant species-specific structural variations in genic regions changed the expression of many important genes, which may have led to fiber cell improvement in (AD)1. Our findings resolve existing controversial concepts surrounding A-genome origins and provide valuable genomic resources for cotton genetic improvement.
Development of a 96-well plate sample preparation method for integratedN- andO-glycomics using porous graphitized carbon liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry
Authors: Zhang Tao , Madunić Katarina , Holst Stephanie , Zhang Jing , Jin Chunsheng , ten Dijke Peter , Karlsson Niclas G. , Stavenhagen Kathrin , Wuhrer Manfred
Published: April 2020

The developed workflow allows high throughput sample preparation for glycomics analysis.
Liquid marbles from soot films
Authors: Li Xiaoguang , Shi Haixiao , Wang Yiqi , Wang Hanming , Huang Junchao , Duan Mei
Published: April 2020

Mechanically-weak superhydrophobic soot films are suitable for liquid marble production.
An enzyme inhibition-based lab-in-a-syringe device for point-of-need determination of pesticides
Authors: Yang Limin , Wang Jinxin , Qu Linjiao , Liu Zhen , Jiang Lei
Published: April 2020

An enzyme inhibition-based lab-in-a-syringe (EI-LIS) device was developed by integrating a 1-naphthol-linked bi-enzymatic reaction (sensor core) into the LIS (sensor device) for point-of-need monitoring of pesticide residues.
A disulfide based low molecular weight gel for the selective sustained release of biomolecules
Authors: Bansode Nitin D. , Sindhu Kotagudda Ranganath , Morel Chloe , Rémy Murielle , Verget Julien , Boiziau Claudine , Barthélémy Philippe
Published: April 2020

Constructing biocompatible soft materials via supramolecular approaches remains an important challenge for in vivo applications.
Synthesis and properties of an Au6 cluster supported by a mixed N-heterocyclic carbene–thiolate ligand
Authors: Salorinne Kirsi , Man Renee W. Y. , Lummis Paul A. , Hazer Maryam Sabooni Asre , Malola Sami , Yim Jacky C.-H. , Veinot Alex J. , Zhou Wenxia , Häkkinen Hannu , Nambo Masakazu , Crudden Cathleen M.
Published: April 2020

The preparation of a novel Au6 cluster bearing a bidentate mixed carbene–thiolate ligand is presented.
Identification of key functionalization species in the Cp*Ir(iii)-catalyzed-ortho halogenation of benzamides
Authors: Guzmán Santiago Alexis J. , Brown Caleb A. , Sommer Roger D. , Ison Elon A.
Published: April 2020

Cp*Ir(iii) complexes have been shown to be effective for the halogenation of N,N-diisopropylbenzamides with N-halosuccinimide as a suitable halogen source.
Combined structural and theoretical investigation on differently substituted bispidine ligands: predicting the properties of their corresponding coordination polymers
Authors: Lippi Martina , Caputo Josefina , Famulari Antonino , Sacchetti Alessandro , Castellano Carlo , Meneghetti Fiorella , Martí-Rujas Javier , Cametti Massimo
Published: April 2020

Pyridine-based bispidine ligands L1–L7 have been studied by single crystal X-ray diffraction and solid-state DFT calculations in an attempt to predict the dynamic properties of their corresponding Mn(ii) coordination polymers.
Molecular recognition of bisphosphonate-based drugs by di-zinc receptors in aqueous solution and on gold nanoparticles
Authors: Torres-Huerta Aaron , Chan Tiffany G. , White Andrew J. P. , Vilar Ramon
Published: April 2020

Molecular recognition of bisphosphonate drugs by a di-zinc(ii) receptor in solution and on gold nanoparticles is reported.
Biochar-augmented biofilters to improve pollutant removal from stormwater – can they improve receiving water quality?
Authors: Boehm Alexandria B. , Bell Colin D. , Fitzgerald Nicole J. M. , Gallo Elizabeth , Higgins Christopher P. , Hogue Terri S. , Luthy Richard G. , Portmann Andrea C. , Ulrich Bridget A. , Wolfand Jordyn M.
Published: April 2020

Stormwater biofilters are being implemented widely in urban environments to provide green space, alleviate flooding, and improve stormwater quality.
Solid wetting-layers in inorganic nano-reactors: the water in imogolite nanotube case
Authors: Monet Geoffrey , Paineau Erwan , Chai Ziwei , Amara Mohamed S. , Orecchini Andrea , Jimenéz-Ruiz Mónica , Ruiz-Caridad Alicia , Fine Lucas , Rouzière Stéphan , Liu Li-Min , Teobaldi Gilberto , Rols Stéphane , Launois Pascale
Published: April 2020

The discovery of an original structure of the water at the inner surface of inorganic aluminogermanate nanotubes and its specific dynamics are reported, based on density functional theory molecular dynamics and inelastic neutron scattering.
Interfacial nanoconnections and enhanced mechanistic studies of metallic coatings for molecular gluing on polymer surfaces
Authors: Chen Dexin , Kang Zhixin , Hirahara Hidetoshi , Li Wei
Published: April 2020

We present an interfacial investigation into the nanoconnections formed between metallic patterns and polymer surfaces via molecular bonding technology.
The one-step electrodeposition of nickel phosphide for enhanced supercapacitive performance using 3-mercaptopropionic acid
Authors: Chebrolu Venkata Thulasivarma , Balakrishnan Balamuralitharan , Aravindha Raja Selvaraj , Cho Inho , Bak Jin-Soo , Kim Hee-Je
Published: April 2020

TMPs have received considerable attention for various applications, including the water splitting reaction (hydrogen evolution reaction and oxygen evolution reaction), methanol oxidation, the oxygen reduction reaction, rechargeable batteries, and supercapacitors.
Direct deposition of a nanoporous palladium electrocatalyst for efficient hydrogen evolution reaction
Authors: Ehsan Muhammad Ali , Suliman Munzir H. , Rehman Abdul , Hakeem Abbas Saeed , Yamani Zain H. , Qamar Mohammad
Published: April 2020

The porous palladium directly deposited on metallic substrates by aerosol-assisted chemical vapor deposition exhibits remarkable HER performance in an acidic electrolyte.
Magnetic solid phase extraction using Fe3O4@β-cyclodextrin–lipid bilayers as adsorbents followed by GC-QTOF-MS for the analysis of nine pesticides
Authors: Wang Hui , Yan Shaowei , Qu Bo , Liu He , Ding Jie , Ren Nanqi
Published: April 2020

A rapid method for the analysis of trace organochlorine pesticides in a complex matrix.
Effective atherosclerotic plaque inflammation inhibition with targeted drug delivery by hyaluronan conjugated atorvastatin nanoparticles
Authors: Hossaini Nasr Seyedmehdi , Rashidijahanabad Zahra , Ramadan Sherif , Kauffman Nate , Parameswaran Narayanan , Zinn Kurt R. , Qian Chunqi , Arora Ripla , Agnew Dalen , Huang Xuefei
Published: April 2020

Atherosclerosis is associated with inflammation in the arteries. Hyaluronan atorvastatin nanoparticle conjugate could target CD44 overexpressed in atherosclerotic plaques and significantly reduce plaque associated inflammation.
Giant Rashba splitting in one-dimensional atomic tellurium chains
Authors: Han Jie , Zhang Ao , Chen Mingxing , Gao Wang , Jiang Qing
Published: April 2020

The helical Te chain exhibits giant Rashba splitting under the influence of strain and structure distortion.
Multi-stimuli responsive cyanostilbene derivatives: pH, amine vapor sensing and mechanoluminescence
Authors: Huang Guangxi , Chang Xiaoyong , Jiang Yuqing , Lin Bei , Li Bing Shi , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: April 2020

Two carboxyl substituted cyanostilbene derivatives can serve as novel mechanoluminescence materials and fluorescent sensors towards pH change and also amine vapors.
3D-Nanosponge enabled segregation: a versatile approach for highly dispersed and high content functionalization of metal oxide species
Authors: Zhang Min , Yang Yannan , Liu Yang , Fu Jianye , Lu Jingyi , Yang Yang , Jiao Jinqing , Yu Chengzhong
Published: April 2020

A general 3D nanosponge enabled strategy is developed to achieve simultaneously highly dispersed and high content functionalization of metal oxide species, ebabling a liabrary of functional nanostructures with great application potential.
Highly efficient exciplex-based OLEDs incorporating a novel electron donor
Authors: Tian Qi-Sheng , Zhu Xiang-Dong , Liao Liang-Sheng
Published: April 2020

A high performance green exciplex OLED comprising a novel electron donor DEX with an acceptor PO-T2T can reach an EQEmaxof 11.2%, and a red phosphorescent OLED incorporating the green exciplex forming co-host achieves an EQEmaxof 24.5%.
Bistable non-volatile resistive memory devices based on ZnO nanoparticles embedded in polyvinylpyrrolidone
Authors: Zhang Hongyan , Zhao Xiaofeng , Huang Jiahe , Bai Ju , Hou Yanjun , Wang Cheng , Wang Shuhong , Bai Xuduo
Published: April 2020

The resistive random access memory (RRAM) devices based on polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and PVP:PVP:zinc oxide nanoparticle (ZnO NP) active layers have bistable electrical switching behavior.
Rationalizing the diverse reactivity of [1.1.1]propellane through σ–π-delocalization
Authors: Sterling Alistair J. , Dürr Alexander B. , Smith Russell C. , Anderson Edward A. , Duarte Fernanda
Published: April 2020

A unified framework that explains the reactivity of [1.1.1]propellane through electron delocalization.
Synthesis of 3D marigold flower-like rGO/BN/Ni(OH)2ternary nanocomposites for supercapacitor applications
Authors: Krishnaveni Murugesan , Suresh Cini M. , Wu Jerry J. , Asiri Abdullah M. , Anandan Sambandam , Ashokkumar Muthupandian
Published: April 2020

Supercapacitors are efficient and developing energy storage devices.
Dehydrative etherification of carbohydrates to 5-ethoxymethylfurfural over SBA-15-supported Sn-modified heteropolysilicate catalysts
Authors: Srinivasa Rao B. , Dhana Lakshmi D. , Krishna Kumari P. , Rajitha P. , Lingaiah N.
Published: April 2020

Introduction of Sn into heteropoly silicate led to generate Lewis acidity. Conversion of carbohydrates to EMF requires both Brønsted and Lewis acidity to yield more EMF. The activity increased with increase in Lewis acidity of the Sn0.75STA/SBA-15 catalysts.
Systematic approach for wettability prediction using molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Jarray Ahmed , Wijshoff Herman , Luiken Jurriaan A. , den Otter Wouter K.
Published: April 2020

An efficient approach for fast screening of liquids in terms of their wetting properties.
Fabrication of pH-responsive monodisperse microcapsules using interfacial tension of immiscible phases
Authors: Thakare Dhawal R. , Schaer Grayson , Yourdkhani Mostafa , Sottos Nancy R.
Published: April 2020

Monodisperse stimuli-responsive microcapsules are difficult to fabricate with precise control over capsule properties. The paper reports a facile technique to produce highly tunable and monodisperse emulsion-templated acid-responsive microcapsules.
Li+ conducting garnet-type oxide sintering triggered by an H+/Li+ ion-exchange reaction
Authors: Ohta Shingo , Kawakami Masatsugu , Nozaki Hiroshi , Yada Chihiro , Saito Toshiya , Iba Hideki
Published: April 2020

We demonstrate the fabrication of a solid state Li/Li7La3Zr2O12/Li(Ni1/3Co1/3Mn1/3)O2 battery at a remarkably low temperature (400 °C) using low temperature sintering triggered by an ion-exchange reaction.
Comparing Tense and Agreement Productivity in Boys With Fragile X Syndrome, Children With Developmental Language Disorder, and Children With Typical Development
Authors: Hilvert Elizabeth , Hoover Jill , Sterling Audra , Schroeder Susen
Published: April 2020

Purpose

This study compared and characterized the tense and agreement productivity of boys with fragile X syndrome (FXS), children with developmental language disorder (DLD), and children with typical development (TD) matched on mean length of utterance.

Method

Twenty-two boys with FXS (Mage= 12.22 years), 19 children with DLD (Mage= 4.81 years), and 20 children with TD (Mage= 3.23 years) produced language samples that were coded for their productive use of five tense markers (i.e., third-person singular, past tense–ed, copulaBE, auxiliaryBE, and auxiliaryDO) using the tense and agreement productivity score. Children also completed norm-referenced cognitive and linguistic assessments.

Results

Children with DLD generally used tense and agreement markers less productively than children with TD, particularly third-person singular and auxiliaryBE. However, boys with FXS demonstrated a more complicated pattern of productivity, where they were similar to children with DLD and TD, depending on the tense marker examined. Results revealed that children with DLD and TD showed a specific developmental sequence of the individual tense markers that aligns with patterns documented by previous studies, whereas boys with FXS demonstrated a more even profile of productivity.

Conclusions

These findings help to further clarify areas of overlap and discrepancy in tense and agreement productivity among boys with FXS and children with DLD. Additional clinical implications of these results are discussed.
Peer-Mediated Augmentative and Alternative Communication Interventions for Young Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder and Limited to No Spoken Communication
Authors: Bourque Kathy S.
Published: April 2020

Purpose

Increasingly, research has identified effective approaches to improve communication and social engagement of preschool-age children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) with limited spoken communication during interactions with peer partners. These include teaching peers to use the same augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) system, along with direct instruction (Thiemann-Bourque et al.,
2018
). The purpose of this research note is to summarize the author's contributions to this literature and provide clinicians with evidence-based strategies to support communicative interactions between children with ASD and peers without disabilities.

Method

This research note describes a series of studies conducted by the author and her colleagues with a focus on peer-mediated and direct AAC instructional approaches, defining target skills and how to measure effects on children's social communication competence, and the potential benefits of integrating approaches for preschool children with ASD who have significant social and communication needs.

Results

Outcomes summarized include fidelity of treatment implementation, improved rates of augmented and spoken communication, increased functional communication using different modalities, and enhanced reciprocal communication between children with ASD and peers during routine activities. Study limitations and directions for future intervention research are also discussed.

Conclusions

Together, the research reviewed shows that peers can be taught to be responsive AAC communication partners at a young age, with high fidelity of strategy implementation by peers and by speech-language pathologists or other early intervention staff. Providing children with increased social learning opportunities within the context of shared AAC activities allows both partners to become more competent in their social communicative interactions.
Spectrophotometric calibration of low-resolution spectra
Authors: Weiler M. , Carrasco J. M. , Fabricius C. , Jordi C.
Published: April 2020

Context. Low-resolution spectroscopy is a frequently used technique. Aperture prism spectroscopy in particular is an important tool for large-scale survey observations. The ongoing ESA space mission Gaia is the currently most relevant example.

Aims. In this work we analyse the fundamental limitations of the calibration of low-resolution spectrophotometric observations and introduce a calibration method that avoids simplifying assumptions on the smearing effects of the line spread functions.

Methods. To this aim, we developed a functional analytic mathematical formulation of the problem of spectrophotometric calibration. In this formulation, the calibration process can be described as a linear mapping between two suitably constructed Hilbert spaces, independently of the resolution of the spectrophotometric instrument.

Results. The presented calibration method can provide a formally unusual but precise calibration of low-resolution spectrophotometry with non-negligible widths of line spread functions. We used the Gaia spectrophotometric instruments to demonstrate that the calibration method of this work can potentially provide a significantly better calibration than methods neglecting the smearing effects of the line spread functions.