bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effect of lead on the physiological, biochemical and ultrastructural properties of Leucaena leucocephala
Authors: Alkhatib R. , Mheidat M. , Abdo N. , Tadros M. , Al‐Eitan L. , Al‐Hadid K. 
Published: June 2019

Abstract

Heavy metals are characterised by a relatively high density and cause genotoxic, cytotoxic and mutagenic effects on plants, animals and humans. Lead (Pb) is one of the heavy metals that causes toxicity to plants and animals.

This experiment was conducted using a hydroponic technique to study the effects of Pb(NO3)2 on physiological, biochemical and ultrastructural characteristics in Leucaena leucocephala seedlings. Plants were grown in a growth chamber for 21 days in Hoagland’s solution supplemented with 0 (control), 25, 50, 100, 300, 500 and 700 µm Pb(NO3)2.

Shoot heights as well as root lengths decreased significantly in Pb‐treated plants with 300, 500 and 700 µm. In Pb‐treated plants with high Pb concentrations, photosynthesis rate (PN), stomatal conductance (gs) and transpiration rate (E) decreased. Total protein and carbohydrate content in Pb‐treated plants with 300, 500 and 700 µm increased significantly in leaves. Moreover, in Pb‐treated plants with 300, 500 and 700 µm Pb(NO3)2, mesophyll cells had enlarged chloroplasts with disrupted thylakoid membranes associated with large starch grains. In contrast, Pb treatments with 25, 50 µm and 100 µm were not toxic to the plants. Thick sections of roots of Pb‐treated plants with 300, 500 and 700 µm Pb showed distinct changes in structure of epidermal and cortical cells. Moreover, thin sections of roots of Pb‐treated plants with 300, 500 and 700 µm Pb had thickened walls of xylem cells.

These results will shed more light in understanding the effects of heavy metal stress on plants.
From marine bands to hybrid flows: Sedimentology of a Mississippian black shale
Authors: Emmings Joseph F. , Davies Sarah J. , Vane Christopher H. , Moss‐Hayes Vicky , Stephenson Michael H. 
Published: June 2019

AbstractOrganic‐rich mudstones have long been of interest as conventional and unconventional source rocks and are an important organic carbon sink. Yet the processes that deposited organic‐rich muds in epicontinental seaways are poorly understood, partly because few modern analogues exist. This study investigates the processes that transported and deposited sediment and organic matter through part of the Bowland Shale Formation, from the Mississippian Rheic–Tethys seaway. Field to micron‐scale sedimentological analysis reveals a heterogeneous succession of carbonate‐rich, siliceous, and siliciclastic, argillaceous muds. Deposition of these facies at basinal and slope locations was moderated by progradation of the nearby Pendle delta system, fourth‐order eustatic sea‐level fluctuation and localized block and basin tectonism. Marine transgressions deposited bioclastic ‘marine band’ (hemi)pelagic packages. These include abundant euhaline macrofaunal tests, and phosphatic concretions of organic matter and radiolarian tests interpreted as faecal pellets sourced from a productive water column. Lens‐rich (lenticular) mudstones, hybrid, debrite and turbidite beds successively overlie marine band packages and suggest reducing basin accommodation promoted sediment deposition via laminar and hybrid flows sourced from the basin margins. Mud lenses in lenticular mudstones lack organic linings and bioclasts and are equant in early‐cemented lenses and in plan‐view, and are largest and most abundant in mudstones overlying marine band packages. Thus, lenses likely represent partially consolidated mud clasts that were scoured and transported in bedload from the shelf or proximal slope, as a ‘shelf to basin’ conveyor, during periods of reduced basin accommodation. Candidate in situ microbial mats in strongly lenticular mudstones, and as rip‐up fragments in the down‐dip hybrid beds, suggest that these were potentially key biostabilizers of mud. Deltaic mud export was fast, despite the intrabasinal complexity, likely an order of magnitude higher than similar successions deposited in North America. Epicontinental basins remotely linked to delta systems were therefore capable of rapidly accumulating both sediment and organic matter.
Triple‐phased mesenteric CT angiography using a test bolus technique for evaluation of the mesenteric vasculature and small intestinal wall contrast enhancement in dogs
Authors: Lee Sang‐Kwon , Yoon Sooa , Kim Cheolhyun , Choi Jihye 
Published: June 2019

AbstractComputed tomography angiography is widely used for the assessment of various mesenteric vascular and bowel diseases in humans. However, there are only few studies that describe CT angiography application to mesenteric vessels in dogs. In this prospective, experimental, exploratory study, the mesenteric vasculature and enhancement pattern of the intestinal wall were evaluated on triple‐phase CT angiography, and improvement of the visibility of vasculature was assessed on multiplanar reformation, maximum intensity projection, and volume rendering technique. After test bolus scanning at the level of the cranial mesenteric artery arising from the aorta, mesenteric CT angiography was performed in 10 healthy, male, Beagle dogs. Scan delay was set based on time‐to‐attenuation curves, drawn by placing the regions of interest over the aorta, intestinal wall, and cranial mesenteric vein. Visualization and enhancement of mesenteric arteries and veins were evaluated with multiplanar reformation, maximum intensity projection, and volume rendering techniques. The degree of intestinal wall enhancement was assessed on the transverse images in precontrast, arterial, intestinal, and venous phases. Pure arterial images were obtained in the arterial phase. Venous phase images allowed good portal vascular mapping. All CT angiography images were of high quality, allowing for excellent visualization of the anatomy of mesenteric vasculature including the small branches, particularly on maximum intensity projection and volume rendering technique. Distinct contrast enhancement of the intestinal wall was observed in both intestinal and venous phases. Findings indicated that this technique is feasible for the evaluation of mesenteric circulation in dogs.
Synthesizing Designs With Interpart Dependencies Using Hierarchical Generative Adversarial Networks
Authors: Chen Wei , Fuge Mark 
Published: June 2019

AbstractReal-world designs usually consist of parts with interpart dependencies, i.e., the geometry of one part is dependent on one or multiple other parts. We can represent such dependency in a part dependency graph. This paper presents a method for synthesizing these types of hierarchical designs using generative models learned from examples. It decomposes the problem of synthesizing the whole design into synthesizing each part separately but keeping the interpart dependencies satisfied. Specifically, this method constructs multiple generative models, the interaction of which is based on the part dependency graph. We then use the trained generative models to synthesize or explore each part design separately via a low-dimensional latent representation, conditioned on the corresponding parent part(s). We verify our model on multiple design examples with different interpart dependencies. We evaluate our model by analyzing the constraint satisfaction performance, the synthesis quality, the latent space quality, and the effects of part dependency depth and branching factor. This paper’s techniques for capturing dependencies among parts lay the foundation for learned generative models to extend to more realistic engineering systems where such relationships are widespread.
Length scales and types of heterogeneities along the deep subduction interface: Insights from exhumed rocks on Syros Island, Greece
Authors: Kotowski Alissa J. , Behr Whitney M. 
Published: June 2019

Abstract
We use structural and microstructural observations from exhumed subduction-related rocks exposed on Syros Island (Cyclades, Greece) to provide constraints on the length scales and types of heterogeneities that occupy the deep subduction interface, with possible implications for episodic tremor and slow slip. We selected three Syros localities that represent different oceanic protoliths and deformation conditions within a subduction interface shear zone, including: (1) prograde subduction of oceanic crust to eclogite facies; (2) exhumation of oceanic crust from eclogite through blueschist-greenschist facies; and (3) exhumation of mixed mafic crust and sediments from eclogite through blueschist-greenschist facies. All three localities preserve rheological heterogeneities that reflect metamorphism of primary lithological, geochemical, and/or textural variations in the subducted protoliths and that take the form of brittle pods and lenses within a viscous matrix. Microstructural observations indicate that the matrix lithologies (blueschists and quartz-rich metasediments) deformed by distributed power-law viscous flow accommodated by dislocation creep in multiple mineral phases. We estimate bulk shear zone viscosities ranging from ∼1018 to 1020 Pa-s, depending on the relative proportion of sediments to (partially eclogitized) oceanic crust. Eclogite and coarse-grained blueschist heterogeneities within the matrix preserve multiple generations of dilational shear fractures and veins formed under high-pressure conditions. The veins commonly show coeval or overprinting viscous shear, suggesting repeated cycles of frictional and viscous strain. These geologic observations are consistent with a mechanical model of episodic tremor and slow slip (ETS), in which the deep subduction interface is a rheologically heterogeneous distributed shear zone comprising transiently brittle (potentially tremor-genic) sub-patches within a larger, viscously creeping interface patch. Based on our observations of outcrop and map areas of heterogeneous patches and the sizes, distributions, and amounts of brittle offset recorded by heterogeneities, we estimate that simultaneous brittle failure of heterogeneities could produce tremor bursts with equivalent seismic moments of 4.5 × 109–4.7 × 1014 N m, consistent with seismic moments estimated from geophysical data at active subduction zones.
Magma-driven accommodation structures formed during sill emplacement at shallow crustal depths: The Maiden Creek sill, Henry Mountains, Utah
Authors: Wilson Penelope I.R. , McCaffrey Ken J.W. , Holdsworth Robert E. 
Published: June 2019

Abstract
In areas of exceptional exposure, upper-crustal intrusions and their immediate wall rocks commonly preserve direct evidence of the emplacement, magma flow pathways, and strains associated with the intrusion process. Such excellent exposure is displayed by the Paleogene Maiden Creek intrusion—a small satellite body related to the Mount Hillers intrusive complex, Henry Mountains, Utah. An intermediate plagioclase-hornblende porphyritic magma was intruded into the Entrada Sandstone Formation at an estimated depth of ∼3 km. The southern part of the intrusion is overlain by the newly identified Maiden Creek shear zone (MCSZ): a subhorizontal, top-to-the-WNW detachment formed at the contact with the overlying sandstone country rocks. From observations of both syn-emplacement deformation and the exposed intrusion geometries, it is proposed that the southern Maiden Creek intrusion comprises westerly derived, inclined sill sheets. Host-rock sandstones were sandwiched (∼E–W constriction) between these intrusive bodies beneath the MCSZ. It is proposed that the MCSZ is a syn-emplacement magma-driven accommodation structure, with a shear sense antithetic to the magma flow direction, which played a critical role in accommodating the westerly derived sill intrusion. Our results show that inelastic syn-emplacement deformation structures, such as the MCSZ, are very important in the accommodation of magma in the subsurface. Such small structures are unlikely to be imaged by seismic-reflection surveys, highlighting the importance of detailed field studies in our understanding of intrusion geometry and emplacement mechanisms.
Should oral contraceptive pills be available without a prescription? A systematic review of over-the-counter and pharmacy access availability
Authors: Kennedy Caitlin E , Yeh Ping Teresa , Gonsalves Lianne , Jafri Hussain , Gaffield Mary Eluned , Kiarie James , Narasimhan Manjulaa L 
Published: June 2019

IntroductionMaking oral contraceptives (OC) available over the counter (OTC) could reduce barriers to use. To inform WHO guidelines on self-care interventions, we conducted a systematic review of OTC availability of OCs.MethodsWe reviewed data on both effectiveness and values and preferences surrounding OTC availability of OCs. For the effectiveness review, peer-reviewed articles were included if they compared either full OTC availability or pharmacist-prescribing (behind-the-counter availability) to prescription-only availability of OCs and measured an outcome of interest. For the values and preferences review, we included peer-reviewed articles that presented primary data (qualitative or quantitative) examining people’s preferences regarding OTC access to OCs. We searched PubMed, CINAHL, LILACS and EMBASE through November 2018 and extracted data in duplicate.ResultsThe effectiveness review included four studies with 5197 total participants. Two studies from the 2000s compared women who obtained OCs OTC in Mexico to women who obtained OCs from providers in either Mexico or the USA. OTC users had higher OC continuation rates over 9 months of follow-up (adjusted HR: 1.58, 95 % CI 1.11 to 2.26). One study found OTC users were more likely to report at least one WHO category 3 contraindication (13.4% vs 8.6%, p=0.006), but not category 4 contraindications; the other study found no differences in contraindicated use. One study found lower side effects among OTC users and high patient satisfaction with both OTC and prescription access. Two cross-sectional studies from the 1970s in Colombia and Mexico found no major differences in OC continuation, but some indication of slightly higher side effects with OTC access. In 23 values and preference studies, women generally favoured OTC availability. Providers showed more modest support, with pharmacists expressing greater support than physicians. Support was generally higher for progestogen-only pills compared with combination OCs.ConclusionA small evidence base suggests women who obtain OCs OTC may have higher continuation rates and limited contraindicated use. Patients and providers generally support OTC availability. OTC availability may increase access to this effective contraceptive option and reduce unintended pregnancies.Systematic review (PROSPERO) registration numberCRD42019119406.
How many patients are eligible for disease-modifying treatment in Alzheimer’s disease? A French national observational study over 5 years
Authors: Epelbaum Stéphane , Paquet Claire , Hugon Jacques , Dumurgier Julien , Wallon David , Hannequin Didier , Jonveaux Thérèse , Besozzi Annick , Pouponneau Stéphane , Hommet Caroline , Blanc Frederic , Berly Laetitia , Julian Adrien , Paccalin Marc , Pasquier Florence , Bellet Julie , Boutoleau-Bretonniere Claire , Charriau Thiphaine , Rouaud Olivier , Madec Olivier , Mouton Aurélie , David Renaud , Bekadar Samir , Fabre Roxane , Liegey Emmanuelle , Deberdt Walter , Robert Philippe , Dubois Bruno 
Published: June 2019

ObjectiveWe aimed to study the epidemiology of the prodromal and mild stages of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients who are eligible for clinical trials with disease-modifying therapies.SettingsWe analysed two large complementary databases to study the incidence and characteristics of this population on a nationwide scope in France from 2014 to 2018. The National Alzheimer Database contains data from 357 memory centres and 90 private neurologists. Data from 2014 to 2018 have been analysed.ParticipantsPatients, 50–85 years old, diagnosed with AD who had an Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE) score of ≥20 were included. We excluded patients with mixed and non-AD neurocognitive disorders.Primary outcome measureDescriptive statistics of the population of interest was the primary measure.ResultsIn the National Alzheimer Database, 550 198 patients were assessed. Among them, 72 174 (13.1%) were diagnosed with AD and had an MMSE ≥20. Using corrections for specificity of clinical diagnosis of AD, we estimated that about 50 000 (9.1%) had a prodromal or mild AD. In the combined electronic clinical records database of 11 French expert memory centres, a diagnosis of prodromal or mild AD, certified by the use of cerebrospinal fluid AD biomarkers, could be established in 195 (1.3%) out of 14 596 patients.ConclusionsAD was not frequently diagnosed at a prodromal or mild dementia stage in France in 2014 to 2018. Diagnosis rarely relied on a pathophysiological marker even in expert memory centres. National databases will be valuable to monitor early stage AD diagnosis efficacy in memory centres when a disease-modifying treatment becomes available.
Advance care plan barriers in older patients with end-stage renal disease: a qualitative nephrologist interview study
Authors: O'Riordan Julien , Noble Helen , Kane P M , Smyth Andrew 
Published: June 2019

ObjectivesOlder patients with end-stage renal disease are willing participants in advance care planning but just over 10% are engaged in this process. Nephrologists fear such conversations may upset patients and so tend to avoid these discussions. This approach denies patients the opportunity to discuss their end-of-life care preferences. Many patients endure medically intensive end-of-life scenarios as a result. This study aims to explore the rationale underpinning nephrologists’ clinical decision-making in the management of older patients with end-stage renal disease and to make recommendations that inform policymakers and enhance advance care planning for this patient group.MethodsA qualitative interview study of 20 nephrologists was undertaken. Nephrologists were asked about their management of end-stage renal disease in older patients, conservative management, dialysis withdrawal and end-of-life care. Eligible participants were nephrologists working in Ireland. Five nephrologists participated in a recorded focus group and 15 nephrologists participated in individual digitally recorded telephone interviews. Semistructured interviews were conducted; thematic analysis was used to distil the results.ResultsThree key themes emerged: barriers to advance care planning; barriers to shared decision-making; and avoidance of end-of-life care discussion.ConclusionsAdvance care planning is not an integral part of the routine care of older patients with end-stage renal disease. Absence of formal training of nephrologists in how to communicate with patients contributes to poor advance care planning. Nephrologists lack clinical experience of conservatively managing end-stage renal disease and end-of-life care in older patients. Key policy recommendations include formal communication skills training for nephrologists and development of the conservative management service.
Caregiver emotional distress: external open-behaviour signs
Authors: Limonero Joaquín T , Maté-Méndez Jorge , Mateo Dolors , Gómez-Romero María José , González-Barboteo Jesús , Cladellas Ramon , Ferris Frank D , Gómez-Batiste Xavier 
Published: June 2019

ObjectivesTo determine whether specific external signs of emotional distress (ESED) can be an indirect measure of emotional distress in caregivers.MethodsA cross-sectional multicentre design was used. 148 primary caregivers of advanced cancer patients attended in four Spanish palliative care units participated in this study. The emotional distress of caregivers was measured using both the Emotional Distress of Caregivers Scale and a psychological interview. Health professionals collected data using a standard clinical interview process after a brief training period.ResultsMore than half the caregivers (60%) presented with emotional distress. A positive correlation (r=0.566) was found between the intensity of ESED and emotional distress per se. Caregivers who presented emotional distress showed more ESED than those that did not (p<0.01). The study found significant differences for the categories ‘visible signs of sadness, fear, crying, feeling overwhelmed’ (p<0.001), ‘difficulty in separating from the patient: family refuses to let the patient make decisions and insists on care’ (p<0.001) and ‘visible signs of anger, irritability or frequent disagreement with therapeutic measures’ (p<0.001). No significant differences were found with respect to gender. The set of items to measure these external signs presented an adequate reliability assessed using Cronbach’s alpha (α=0.773).ConclusionsThe assessment of ESED in caregivers could serve as a useful method to assess their emotional distress. Incorporating the systematic assessment of these external signs as part of the assessment of the emotional distress of primary caregivers could improve the overall assessment and treatment provided to these caregivers.
Management of venous thromboembolism in far-advanced cancer: current practice
Authors: Noble Simon , Banerjee Sophie , Pease Nikki Jane 
Published: June 2019

ObjectivesVenous thromboembolism (VTE) is common in advanced cancer. Guidelines suggest that indefinite anticoagulation be considered for patients with ongoing active cancer. There are no data on the management of cancer-associated thrombosis (CAT) at the end of life or when to stop anticoagulation as death approaches. We reviewed current practice and associated symptoms at the end of life for patients with advanced cancer who had been anticoagulated for VTE.MethodsData on patients attending a regional CAT service were cross-referenced with death notifications. Hospital, hospice and community notes were reviewed to evaluate the end-of-life care within the context of VTE management. Data specific to discontinuation of anticoagulation, complications of anticoagulation and symptoms associated with VTE were recorded.Results214 patients died over a 2-year period; 98 (46%) home, 59 (27%) hospice, 53 (25%) acute hospital and 4 (2%) community hospital. 108 (50%) continued low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) until death, 23 (11%) up to 7 days prior to death, 23 (11%), 1 week to 1 month 29 (13.5%), over 1 month 40 (18%). Clinically relevant non-major bleeding occurred in 9/131 (7%) of the patients who continued LMWH to death or 7 days up to death. No symptoms attributable to VTE were recorded.ConclusionThe majority of CAT patients with metastatic disease remain anticoagulated up to or within days of death. Despite the limitations of retrospective data across healthcare settings, it appears that anticoagulation as death approaches confers a significant bleeding risk without additional benefit of preventing VTE symptoms.