bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Catchment land use predicts benthic vegetation in small estuaries
Authors: Cook Perran L.M. , Warry Fiona Y. , Reich Paul , Mac Nally Ralph , Woodland Ryan J.
Published: February 2018

Many estuaries are becoming increasingly eutrophic from human activities within their catchments. Nutrient loads often are used to assess risk of eutrophication to estuaries, but such data are expensive and time consuming to obtain. We compared the percent of fertilized land within a catchment, dissolved inorganic nitrogen loads, catchment to estuary area ratio and flushing time as predictors of the proportion of macroalgae to total vegetation within 14 estuaries in south-eastern Australia. The percent of fertilized land within the catchment was the best predictor of the proportion of macroalgae within the estuaries studied. There was a transition to a dominance of macroalgae once the proportion of fertilized land in the catchment exceeded 24%, highlighting the sensitivity of estuaries to catchment land use.
Crustal‐Scale Fault Interaction at Rifted Margins and the Formation of Domain‐Bounding Breakaway Complexes: Insights From Offshore Norway
Authors: Osmundsen P. T. , Péron‐Pinvidic G.
Published: February 2018

The large‐magnitude faults that control crustal thinning and excision at rifted margins combine into laterally persistent structural boundaries that separate margin domains of contrasting morphology and structure. We term them breakaway complexes. At the Mid‐Norwegian margin, we identify five principal breakaway complexes that separate the proximal, necking, distal, and outer margin domains. Downdip and lateral interactions between the faults that constitute breakaway complexes became fundamental to the evolution of the 3‐D margin architecture. Different types of fault interaction are observed along and between these faults, but simple models for fault growth will not fully describe their evolution. These structures operate on the crustal scale, cut large thicknesses of heterogeneously layered lithosphere, and facilitate fundamental margin processes such as deformation coupling and exhumation. Variations in large‐magnitude fault geometry, erosional footwall incision, and subsequent differential subsidence along the main breakaway complexes likely record the variable efficiency of these processes.
Self‐Assembled Quasi‐3D Nanocomposite: A Novel p‐Type Hole Transport Layer for High Performance Inverted Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Cheng Jiaqi , Zhang Hong , Zhao Yong , Mao Jian , Li Can , Zhang Shaoqing , Wong Kam Sing , Hou Jianhui , Choy Wallace C. H.
Published: February 2018

Hole transport layer (HTL) plays a critical role for achieving high performance solution‐processed optoelectronics including organic electronics. For organic solar cells (OSCs), the inverted structure has been widely adopted to achieve prolonged stability. However, there are limited studies of p‐type effective HTL on top of the organic active layer (hereafter named as top HTL) for inverted OSCs. Currently, p‐type top HTLs are mainly 2D materials, which have an intrinsic vertical conduction limitation and are too thin to function as practical HTL for large area optoelectronic applications. In the present study, a novel self‐assembled quasi‐3D nanocomposite is demonstrated as a p‐type top HTL. Remarkably, the novel HTL achieves ≈15 times enhanced conductivity and ≈16 times extended thickness compared to the 2D counterpart. By applying this novel HTL in inverted OSCs covering fullerene and non‐fullerene systems, device performance is significantly improved. The champion power conversion efficiency reaches 12.13%, which is the highest reported performance of solution processed HTL based inverted OSCs. Furthermore, the stability of OSCs is dramatically enhanced compared with conventional devices. The work contributes to not only evolving the highly stable and large scale OSCs for practical applications but also diversifying the strategies to improve device performance.
Injectable, Tough Alginate Cryogels as Cancer Vaccines
Authors: Shih Ting‐Yu , Blacklow Serena O. , Li Aileen W. , Freedman Benjamin R. , Bencherif Sidi , Koshy Sandeep T. , Darnell Max C. , Mooney David J.
Published: February 2018

A covalently crosslinked methacrylated (MA)‐alginate cryogel vaccine has been previously shown to generate a potent response against murine melanoma, but is not mechanically robust and requires a large 16G needle for delivery. Here, covalent and ionic crosslinking of cryogels are combined with the hypothesis that this will result in a tough MA‐alginate cryogel with improved injectability. All tough cryogels can be injected through a smaller, 18G needle without sustaining any damage, while covalently crosslinked‐only cryogels break after injection. Cytosine‐phosphodiester‐guanine (CpG)‐delivering tough cryogels effectively activate dendritic cells (DCs). Granulocyte macrophage colony‐stimulating factor releasing tough cryogels recruit four times more DCs than blank gels by day 7 in vivo. The tough cryogel vaccine induces strong antigen‐specific cytotoxic T‐lymphocyte and humoral responses. These vaccines prevent tumor formation in 80% of mice inoculated with HER2/neu‐overexpressing DD breast cancer cells. The MA‐alginate tough cryogels provide a promising minimally invasive delivery platform for cancer vaccinations.
Flourishing Bioinspired Antifogging Materials with Superwettability: Progresses and Challenges
Authors: Han Zhiwu , Feng Xiaoming , Guo Zhiguang , Niu Shichao , Ren Luquan
Published: February 2018

Antifogging (AF) structure materials found in nature have great potential for enabling novel and emerging products and technologies to facilitate the daily life of human societies, attracting enormous research interests owing to their potential applications in display devices, traffics, agricultural greenhouse, food packaging, solar products, and other fields. The outstanding performance of biological AF surfaces encourages the rapid development and wide application of new AF materials. In fact, AF properties are inextricably associated with their surface superwettability. Generally, the superwettability of AF materials depends on a combination of their surface geometrical structures and surface chemical compositions. To explore their general design principles, recent progresses in the investigation of bioinspired AF materials are summarized herein. Recent developments of the mechanism, fabrication, and applications of bioinspired AF materials with superwettability are also a focus. This includes information on constructing superwetting AF materials based on designing the topographical structure and regulating the surface chemical composition. Finally, the remaining challenges and promising breakthroughs in this field are also briefly discussed.
Small‐Scale Machines Driven by External Power Sources
Authors: Chen Xiang‐Zhong , Jang Bumjin , Ahmed Daniel , Hu Chengzhi , De Marco Carmela , Hoop Marcus , Mushtaq Fajer , Nelson Bradley J. , Pané Salvador
Published: February 2018

Micro‐ and nanorobots have shown great potential for applications in various fields, including minimally invasive surgery, targeted therapy, cell manipulation, environmental monitoring, and water remediation. Recent progress in the design, fabrication, and operation of these miniaturized devices has greatly enhanced their versatility. In this report, the most recent progress on the manipulation of small‐scale robots based on power sources, such as magnetic fields, light, acoustic waves, electric fields, thermal energy, or combinations of these, is surveyed. The design and propulsion mechanism of micro‐ and nanorobots are the focus of this article. Their fabrication and applications are also briefly discussed.
Plasma‐Assisted Synthesis and Surface Modification of Electrode Materials for Renewable Energy
Authors: Dou Shuo , Tao Li , Wang Ruilun , El Hankari Samir , Chen Ru , Wang Shuangyin
Published: February 2018

Renewable energy technology has been considered as a “MUST” option to lower the use of fossil fuels for industry and daily life. Designing critical and sophisticated materials is of great importance in order to realize high‐performance energy technology. Typically, efficient synthesis and soft surface modification of nanomaterials are important for energy technology. Therefore, there are increasing demands on the rational design of efficient electrocatalysts or electrode materials, which are the key for scalable and practical electrochemical energy devices. Nevertheless, the development of versatile and cheap strategies is one of the main challenges to achieve the aforementioned goals. Accordingly, plasma technology has recently appeared as an extremely promising alternative for the synthesis and surface modification of nanomaterials for electrochemical devices. Here, the recent progress on the development of nonthermal plasma technology is highlighted for the synthesis and surface modification of advanced electrode materials for renewable energy technology including electrocatalysts for fuel cells, water splitting, metal–air batteries, and electrode materials for batteries and supercapacitors, etc.
Biodegradable Spheres Protect Traumatically Injured Spinal Cord by Alleviating the Glutamate‐Induced Excitotoxicity
Authors: Liu Dongfei , Chen Jian , Jiang Tao , Li Wei , Huang Yao , Lu Xiyi , Liu Zehua , Zhang Weixia , Zhou Zheng , Ding Qirui , Santos Hélder A. , Yin Guoyong , Fan Jin
Published: February 2018

New treatment strategies for spinal cord injury with good therapeutic efficacy are actively pursued. Here, acetalated dextran (AcDX), a biodegradable polymer obtained by modifying vicinal diols of dextran, is demonstrated to protect the traumatically injured spinal cord. To facilitate its administration, AcDX is formulated into microspheres (≈7.2 µm in diameter) by the droplet microfluidic technique. Intrathecally injected AcDX microspheres effectively reduce the traumatic lesion volume and inflammatory response in the injured spinal cord, protect the spinal cord neurons from apoptosis, and ultimately, recover the locomotor function of injured rats. The neuroprotective feature of AcDX microspheres is achieved by sequestering glutamate and calcium ions in cerebrospinal fluid. The scavenging of glutamate and calcium ion reduces the influx of calcium ions into neurons and inhibits the formation of reactive oxygen species. Consequently, AcDX microspheres attenuate the expression of proapoptotic proteins, Calpain, and Bax, and enhance the expression of antiapoptotic protein Bcl‐2. Overall, AcDX microspheres protect traumatically injured spinal cord by alleviating the glutamate‐induced excitotoxicity. This study opens an exciting perspective toward the application of neuroprotective AcDX for the treatment of severe neurological diseases.
A Thermally Insulating Textile Inspired by Polar Bear Hair
Authors: Cui Ying , Gong Huaxin , Wang Yujie , Li Dewen , Bai Hao
Published: February 2018

Animals living in the extremely cold environment, such as polar bears, have shown amazing capability to keep warm, benefiting from their hollow hairs. Mimicking such a strategy in synthetic fibers would stimulate smart textiles for efficient personal thermal management, which plays an important role in preventing heat loss and improving efficiency in house warming energy consumption. Here, a “freeze‐spinning” technique is used to realize continuous and large‐scale fabrication of fibers with aligned porous structure, mimicking polar bear hairs, which is difficult to achieve by other methods. A textile woven with such biomimetic fibers shows an excellent thermal insulation property as well as good breathability and wearability. In addition to passively insulating heat loss, the textile can also function as a wearable heater, when doped with electroheating materials such as carbon nanotubes, to induce fast thermal response and uniform electroheating while maintaining its soft and porous nature for comfortable wearing.
Synthesis of Sub‐2 nm Iron‐Doped NiSe2 Nanowires and Their Surface‐Confined Oxidation for Oxygen Evolution Catalysis
Authors: Gu Chao , Hu Shaojin , Zheng Xusheng , Gao Min‐Rui , Zheng Ya‐Rong , Shi Lei , Gao Qiang , Zheng Xiao , Chu Wangsheng , Yao Hong‐Bin , Zhu Junfa , Yu Shu‐Hong
Published: February 2018

Ultrathin nanostructures are attractive for diverse applications owing to their unique properties compared to their bulk materials. Transition‐metal chalcogenides are promising electrocatalysts, yet it remains difficult to make ultrathin structures (sub‐2 nm), and the realization of their chemical doping is even more challenging. Herein we describe a soft‐template mediated colloidal synthesis of Fe‐doped NiSe2 ultrathin nanowires (UNWs) with diameter down to 1.7 nm. The synergistic interplay between oleylamine and 1‐dodecanethiol is crucial to yield these UNWs. The in situ formed amorphous hydroxide layers that is confined to the surface of the ultrathin scaffolds enable efficient oxygen evolution electrocatalysis. The UNWs exhibit a very low overpotential of 268 mV at 10 mA cm−2 in 0.1 m KOH, as well as remarkable long‐term stability, representing one of the most efficient noble‐metal‐free catalysts.
Recent advances in core/shell bicomponent fibers and nanofibers: A review
Authors: Naeimirad Mohammadreza , Zadhoush Ali , Kotek Richard , Esmaeely Neisiany Rasoul , Nouri Khorasani Saied , Ramakrishna Seeram
Published: February 2018

There has been a steady progress in developing synthetic fibers in the past few years. Bicomponent fibers and nanofibers in a core/shell (C/S) configuration, including two dissimilar materials have presented unusual potential for use in many novel applications. These fibers can be produced using a variety of materials via different techniques i.e., coaxial melt spinning and electrospinning. In this review, we discuss the recent advances in C/S fibers and nanofibers’ production. The first part has been assigned to the bicomponent fibers manufacturing technology, while production and applications of C/S nanofibers have been described in the second part. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci.2018,135, 46265.
High damping epoxized natural rubber/diallyl adiallyl phthalate prepolymer (ENR/DAP‐A) blends engineered by interphase crosslinking
Authors: Lu Xun , Yang Yilin , Cheng Bo , Li Tao
Published: February 2018

While a great diversity of rubber/plastic damping blends have been reported, the damping trough resulted from phase incompatibility, which usually exists between the glass transition temperatures (Tg) of each component, remains an unsolved problem by separating the effective temperature range of damping blends. Herein, we reported a new and facile way of preparing rubber/plastic binary blends with high damping property by eliminating the inherent damping trough. Specifically, we envisaged that peroxides can trigger free radical reactions both within and between epoxidized natural rubber/diallyl phthalate prepolymer moieties, which serve as the co‐vulcanizer to generate interphase reactions thus enhancing phase compatibility. Accordingly, apart from the resulting high damping epoxidized natural rubber40/diallyl phthalate prepolymer binary blends with an effective (tan δmin > 0.35) temperature range of 178 °C from −33 to 145 °C, the proposal has also been demonstrated via the support of broadband dielectric spectrometer testing, dynamic mechanical analysis, and differential scanning calorimetry. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46300.
TDDFT and MS‐CASPT2 Study of the Excited States of Para‐Methoxymethylcinnamate
Authors: Moon Jiwon , Baek Heehyun , Lim Jeong Sik , Kim Joonghan
Published: February 2018

The vertical and adiabatic excitation energies of the ππ*, ππ*′, and nπ* states of the trans and cis isomers of para‐methoxymethylcinnamate (p‐MMC) were calculated using time‐dependent density functional theory and multistate complete active space second‐order perturbation theory (MS‐CASPT2) with reasonably sized basis sets. The adiabatic excitation energies of the ππ* state of trans‐p‐MMC calculated by TD‐CAM‐B3LYP and MS‐CASPT2 are in excellent agreement with the experimental value. The nπ* state lies at a higher energy than the ππ* state in the adiabatic excitation energy calculations, indicating that the barrier to internal conversion from the ππ* state to the nπ* state will be considerable. This result is opposite to the previous theoretical result. The microsolvation effect of a water molecule on p‐MMC is examined by calculating the excitation energies. The origin of the stabilization of the ππ* state and destabilization of the nπ* state by microsolvation has also been elucidated using natural population analysis.
Experimental Assessment and Modeling of the Solubility of Malonic Acid in Different Solvents
Authors: Yu Xiaoxi , Wu Yining , Wang Jingkang , Ulrich Joachim
Published: February 2018

Malonic acid is widely applied in the pharmaceutical industry as a drug intermediate and for acidity control in drug production. Its solubility in five pure solvents and one binary solvent mixture was measured. The results reveal that, in the solvents studied, the solubility increases with increasing temperature. Different thermodynamic models were applied to correlate the solubility data in the pure and binary solvents and were found to match well with the experimental data. Computational investigations performed using molecular dynamics simulations showed that, in the pure alcohol solvents, both the solute‐solvent interaction and the solvent‐solvent interaction affect the solubility behavior, while in the case of the pure solvents acetone and acetonitrile, the solute‐solvent interaction is the key factor.
Organocatalytic C−F Bond Activation with Alanes
Authors: Jaeger Alma D. , Ehm Christian , Lentz Dieter
Published: February 2018

Hydrodefluorination reactions (HDF) of per‐ and polyfluorinated olefins and arenes by cheap aluminum alkyl hydrides in non‐coordinating solvents can be catalyzed by O and N donors. TONs with respect to the organocatalysts of up to 87 have been observed. Depending on substrate and concentration, high selectivities can be achieved. For the prototypical hexafluoropropene, however, low selectivities are observed (E/Z≈2). DFT studies show that the preferred HDF mechanism for this substrate in the presence of donor solvents proceeds from the dimer Me4Al2(μ‐H)2⋅THF by nucleophilic vinylic substitution (SNV)‐like transition states with low selectivity and without formation of an intermediate, not via hydrometallation or σ‐bond metathesis. In the absence of donor solvents, hydrometallation is preferred but this is associated with inaccessibly high activation barriers at low temperatures. Donor solvents activate the aluminum hydride bond, lower the barrier for HDF significantly, and switch the product preference from Z to E. The exact nature of the donor has only a minimal influence on the selectivity at low concentrations, as the donor is located far away from the active center in the transition states. The mechanism changes at higher donor concentrations and proceeds from Me2AlH⋅THF via SNV and formation of a stable intermediate, from which elimination is unselective, which results in a loss of selectivity.
One‐Pot Generation of Bicyclo[3.1.0]hexanols and Cyclohexanones by Double Interrupted Nazarov Reactions
Authors: Gelozia Shorena , Kwon Yonghoon , McDonald Robert , West F. G.
Published: February 2018

Organoaluminum‐mediated double interrupted Nazarov cyclization to access bicyclo[3.1.0]hexanols via nucleophilic methyl attack followed by Simmons–Smith‐type electrophilic cyclopropanation is reported. These alcohols can undergo ring opening to afford cyclohexanones or cyclohexenones, broadening the range of scaffolds available via interrupted Nazarov reaction beyond the usual cyclopentanoid products. Throughout the sequence, a total of four new C−C bonds are formed, along with four new stereogenic centers.
Pharmacokinetics and Safety of Bazedoxifene in Hepatically Impaired and Healthy Postmenopausal Women
Authors: McKeand William , Baird‐Bellaire Susan , Ermer James , Patat Alain
Published: February 2018

Bazedoxifene, a selective estrogen receptor modulator with proestrogenic effects on bone and lipid metabolism and antiestrogenic effects on the breast and endometrium, is a treatment option for osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. It is extensively metabolized by the liver; therefore, a decrease in liver function was expected to decrease bazedoxifene clearance. This single‐dose, open‐label, inpatient/outpatient, nonrandomized study assessed the pharmacokinetics of bazedoxifene 20 mg in 18 postmenopausal women with hepatic impairment and 18 matched healthy postmenopausal women. Bazedoxifene elimination was slower, and exposure was higher, in hepatically impaired subjects compared with healthy subjects. In subjects with severe (Child‐Pugh C) liver impairment, bazedoxifene mean half‐life was 50% longer than that of healthy subjects. Area under the concentration‐time curve geometric mean ratios (90%CI) for Child‐Pugh A, B, and C liver impairment vs healthy subjects were 243% (156‐379), 209% (135‐326), and 368% (236‐572), respectively. Although there were no severe adverse events in this study, bazedoxifene use in patients with hepatic impairment is not recommended.
Detection of Adrenaline in Blood Plasma as Biomarker for Adrenal Venous Sampling
Authors: Molinnus Denise , Hardt Gabriel , Siegert Petra , Willenberg Holger S. , Poghossian Arshak , Keusgen Michael , Schöning Michael J.
Published: February 2018

An amperometric bi‐enzyme biosensor based on substrate recycling principle for the amplification of the sensor signal has been developed for the detection of adrenaline in blood. Adrenaline can be used as biomarker verifying successful adrenal venous sampling procedure. The adrenaline biosensor has been realized via modification of a galvanic oxygen sensor with a bi‐enzyme membrane combining a genetically modified laccase and a pyrroloquinoline quinone‐dependent glucose dehydrogenase. The measurement conditions such as pH value and temperature were optimized to enhance the sensor performance. A high sensitivity and a low detection limit of about 0.5–1 nM adrenaline have been achieved in phosphate buffer at pH 7.4, relevant for measurements in blood samples. The sensitivity of the biosensor to other catecholamines such as noradrenaline, dopamine and dobutamine has been studied. Finally, the sensor has been successfully applied for the detection of adrenaline in human blood plasma.
Parallel evolution of gene expression between trophic specialists despite divergent genotypes and morphologies
Authors: McGirr Joseph A. , Martin Christopher H.
Published: February 2018

Parallel evolution of gene expression commonly underlies convergent niche specialization, but parallel changes in expression could also underlie divergent specialization. We investigated divergence in gene expression and whole-genome genetic variation across three sympatric Cyprinodon pupfishes endemic to San Salvador Island, Bahamas. This recent radiation consists of a generalist and two derived specialists adapted to novel niches: a scale-eating and a snail-eating pupfish. We sampled total mRNA from all three species at two early developmental stages and compared gene expression with whole-genome genetic differentiation among all three species in 42 resequenced genomes. Eighty percent of genes that were differentially expressed between snail-eaters and generalists were up or down regulated in the same direction between scale-eaters and generalists; however, there were no fixed variants shared between species underlying these parallel changes in expression. Genes showing parallel evolution of expression were enriched for effects on metabolic processes, whereas genes showing divergent expression were enriched for effects on cranial skeleton development and pigment biosynthesis, reflecting the most divergent phenotypes observed between specialist species. Our findings reveal that even divergent niche specialists may exhibit convergent adaptation to higher trophic levels through shared genetic pathways. This counterintuitive result suggests that parallel evolution in gene expression can accompany divergent ecological speciation during adaptive radiation.
Aneustat (OMN54) has aerobic glycolysis‐inhibitory activity and also immunomodulatory activity as indicated by a first‐generation PDX prostate cancer model
Authors: Qu Sifeng , Xue Hui , Dong Xin , Lin Dong , Wu Rebecca , Nabavi Noushin , Collins Colin C. , Gleave Martin E. , Gout Peter W. , Wang Yuzhuo
Published: February 2018

Aneustat (OMN54) is a multivalent, botanical anticancer candidate therapeutic. A recent Phase‐I clinical trial has indicated that it is well tolerated by patients and has immunomodulatory activity. In our study, using in vitro and in vivo prostate cancer models, we investigated Aneustat with regard to effects on (i) cancer‐generated immunosuppression based on aerobic glycolysis leading to acidification of the tumor microenvironment, and (ii) immune‐related processes such as macrophage differentiation and shifts in the intratumoral levels of host immune cells. Aneustat markedly reduced glucose consumption, lactic acid secretion, glycolysis‐related gene expressions and proliferation of human LNCaP prostate cancer cells. In addition, Aneustat induced differentiation of RAW264.7 macrophages to the M1 anticancer phenotype. Treatment of LNCaP xenografts and first‐generation patient‐derived prostate cancer tissue xenografts with Aneustat in both cases led to a marked shift in intratumoral host (mouse/patient) immune cell levels: a higher ratio of cytotoxic CD8+ T/Treg cells, higher numbers of NK cells, lower numbers of Treg cells and MDSCs, i.e. changes favoring the host anticancer immune response. Taken together, the data indicate that Aneustat has immunomodulatory activity based on inhibition of aerobic glycolysis which in patients may lead to reduction of cancer‐induced immunosuppression. Furthermore, first‐generation patient‐derived cancer tissue xenograft models may be used for screening compounds for immunomodulatory activity.
Severe pleuritis and pericarditis associated with very‐late‐onset systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Ikushima Hiroaki , Mitsutake Akihiko , Hideyama Takuto , Sato Tatsuya , Katsumata Junko , Seki Tomonari , Maekawa Risa , Kishida Yukiko , Shiio Yasushi
Published: February 2018

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a multisystem disorder, which occurs mostly in young women. However, late‐onset SLE does exist and sometimes presents with an atypical, diversified course. We describe an 85‐year‐old woman who was admitted to our hospital for lower extremity edema and hand grip weakness. Chest computed tomography scan 4 days after admission demonstrated rapid accumulation of pleural and pericardial effusions, which did not exist on admission. She was diagnosed with pleuritis and pericarditis associated with very‐late‐onset SLE. Methylprednisolone pulse therapy resulted in a drastic improvement in serositis. Our case exemplifies the fact that patients with late‐onset SLE sometimes follow an atypical course, which makes the clinical diagnosis difficult.
Attribution analysis of changing pan evaporation in the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau, China
Authors: Zhang Cungui , Liu Fenggui , Shen Yanjun
Published: February 2018

Pan evaporation (Epan) is reported to have exhibited a decreasing trend in many regions of the world over the past several decades. However, recently, the latest studies have discovered the inconsistent phenomenon that the Epan of some regions showed an increasing trend with climate change. Epan is regarded as a critical indicator that plays a significant role in atmospheric evaporative demand, and its trend has an important significant indication to climate change and ecological environment changes. In this article, we adopted the PenPan model and the method of the total short‐wave irradiance of the pan to reparameterize the PenPan‐20 model for the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau (QTP). In addition, we employed sensitivity and a contribution model to analyse the attribution of changes in Epan under climate change over the QTP in 1970–2011. The results showed that the PenPan model can be applied to QTP. Furthermore, the results showed significant decreasing trends of Epan in 1970–2001 and insignificant increasing trends of Epan in 2002–2011. Therefore, we compartmentalized the two periods to analyse the cause of changing Epan by sensitivity and contribution rate. Trend analysis determined that the combined effects of decreasing net radiation and wind speed contributed to the decreasing of Epan in 1970–2001, and the increasing vapour pressure deficit contributed to the increasing of Epan in the study area in 2002–2011. Meanwhile, sensitivity analysis revealed that net radiation was the most sensitive factor. In addition, the results of analysis of the contribution rate were consistent with trend analysis. The dominant factor of changing Epan varied in different periods via qualitative and quantitative analysis.
Better innovators or more innovators? Managerial overconfidence and corporate R&D
Authors: Zavertiaeva Marina A. , López‐Iturriaga Félix J. , Kuminova Evgeniia V.
Published: February 2018

The aim of this paper is to study the influence of chief executive officers' overconfidence on corporate research and development (R&D). We analyze a sample of 766 firms from the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Spain, and the Netherlands between 2008 and 2013. We use 3 measures of managerial overconfidence: the press coverage of chief executive officers, his/her age, and his/her experience in the industry. Our results show that the firms run by overconfident managers actually invest more in R&D expenditures, even after controlling for country, industry, and time factors. Overconfident managers not only spend more on R&D but also amplify the effect of financial determinants of R&D such as firm liquidity or profitability. Nevertheless, overconfident managers do not invest efficiently in R&D, and these expenditures can negatively affect the value of the firm.
Multiple system atrophy and apolipoprotein E
Authors: Ogaki Kotaro , Martens Yuka A. , Heckman Michael G. , Koga Shunsuke , Labbé Catherine , Lorenzo‐Betancor Oswaldo , Wernick Anna I. , Walton Ronald L. , Soto Alexandra I. , Vargas Emily R. , Nielsen Henrietta M. , Fujioka Shinsuke , Kanekiyo Takahisa , Uitti Ryan J. , van Gerpen Jay A. , Cheshire William P. , Wszolek Zbigniew K. , Low Phillip A. , Singer Wolfgang , Dickson Dennis W. , Bu Guojun , Ross Owen A.
Published: February 2018

Background: Dysregulation of the specialized lipid metabolism involved in myelin synthesis and maintenance by oligodendrocytes has been associated with the unique neuropathology of MSA. We hypothesized that apolipoprotein E, which is associated with neurodegeneration, may also play a role in the pathogenesis of MSA.

Objective: This study evaluated genetic associations of Apolipoprotein E alleles with risk of MSA and α‐synuclein pathology, and also examined whether apolipoprotein E isoforms differentially affect α‐synuclein uptake in a oligodendrocyte cell.

Methods: One hundred sixty‐eight pathologically confirmed MSA patients, 89 clinically diagnosed MSA patients, and 1,277 control subjects were genotyped for Apolipoprotein E. Human oligodendrocyte cell lines were incubated with α‐synuclein and recombinant human apolipoprotein E, with internalized α‐synuclein imaged by confocal microscopy and cells analyzed by flow cytometry.

Results: No significant association with risk of MSA or was observed for either Apolipoprotein E ɛ2 or ɛ4. α‐Synuclein burden was also not associated with Apolipoprotein E alleles in the pathologically confirmed patients. Interestingly, in our cell assays, apolipoprotein E ɛ4 significantly reduced α‐synuclein uptake in the oligodendrocytic cell line.

Conclusions: Despite differential effects of apolipoprotein E isoforms on α‐synuclein uptake in a human oligodendrocytic cell, we did not observe a significant association at the Apolipoprotein E locus with risk of MSA or α‐synuclein pathology. © 2018 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Selection of Normative Group Affects Rates of Mild Cognitive Impairment in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Wyman‐Chick Kathryn A. , Martin Phillip K. , Weintraub Daniel , Sperling Scott A. , Erickson Lauren O. , Manning Carol A. , Barrett Matthew J.
Published: February 2018

Objective: The objective of this study was to examine the impact of different methods of standardizing cognitive data in the Parkinson's Progression Marker Initiative.

Methods: Cognitive data from 423 participants with Parkinson's disease were included (age = 61.7 [9.7], education = 15.6 [3.0]). Internal norms were calculated using the group mean and standard deviation of the healthy control group. Published norms were compared to the overall group mean of and to age‐stratified norms from healthy controls for each neuropsychological test over 4 visits. Rates of mild cognitive impairment were calculated using established criteria.

Results: The use of internal norms resulted in lower standardized scores than published norms on all tests with the exception of memory and processing speed (P ≤ .001). Individuals were 1.5 to 2.1 times more likely to be diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment using internal norms than published norms.

Conclusions: Standardization approaches with cognitive data are not interchangeable. Selection of a normative comparison group impacts research and clinical interpretations of cognitive data. © 2018 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
GBS operators of bivariate Bernstein‐Durrmeyer–type on a triangle
Authors: Ruchi Ruchi , Baxhaku Behar , Agrawal Purshottam N.
Published: February 2018

The purpose of the present paper is to define the GBS (Generalized Boolean Sum) operators associated with the two‐dimensional Bernstein‐Durrmeyer operators introduced by Zhou 1992 and study its approximation properties. Furthermore, we show the convergence and comparison of convergence with the GBS of the Bernstein‐Kantorovich operators proposed by Deshwal et al 2017 by numerical examples and illustrations.
Existence and concentration of bound states for a Kirchhoff type problem with potentials vanishing or unbounded at infinity
Authors: Shang Xudong , Zhang Jihui
Published: February 2018

In this paper, we study the existence and concentration behavior of positive solutions for the following Kirchhoff type equation:

urn:x-wiley:mma:media:mma4798:mma4798-math-0001
where ɛ is a positive parameter, a and b are positive constants, and 3
 0 small. Furthermore, we show that the solution uɛ concentrates at the minimum points of
as ɛ→0+.
Global well‐posedness for the 2D Boussinesq system with variable viscosity and damping
Authors: Yu Yanghai , Wu Xing , Tang Yanbin
Published: February 2018

In this paper, we consider the 2D Boussinesq system with variable kinematic viscosity in the velocity equation and with weak damping effect to instead of the regularity effect for the thermal conductivity. Even if without thermal diffusion in the temperature equation, we establish the global well‐posedness for the 2D Boussinesq system with general initial data.
Tolerance limits and methodologies forIMRTmeasurement‐based verificationQA:Recommendations ofAAPMTask Group No. 218
Authors: Miften Moyed , Olch Arthur , Mihailidis Dimitris , Moran Jean , Pawlicki Todd , Molineu Andrea , Li Harold , Wijesooriya Krishni , Shi Jie , Xia Ping , Papanikolaou Nikos , Low Daniel A.
Published: February 2018

Purpose

Patient‐specificIMRT QAmeasurements are important components of processes designed to identify discrepancies between calculated and delivered radiation doses. Discrepancy tolerance limits are neither well defined nor consistently applied across centers. TheAAPM TG‐218 report provides a comprehensive review aimed at improving the understanding and consistency of these processes as well as recommendations for methodologies and tolerance limits in patient‐specificIMRT QA.

Methods

The performance of the dose difference/distance‐to‐agreement (DTA) and γ dose distribution comparison metrics are investigated. Measurement methods are reviewed and followed by a discussion of the pros and cons of each. Methodologies for absolute dose verification are discussed and newIMRT QAverification tools are presented. Literature on the expected or achievable agreement between measurements and calculations for different types of planning and delivery systems are reviewed and analyzed. Tests of vendor implementations of the γ verification algorithm employing benchmark cases are presented.

Results

Operational shortcomings that can reduce the γ tool accuracy and subsequent effectiveness forIMRT QAare described. Practical considerations including spatial resolution, normalization, dose threshold, and data interpretation are discussed. Published data onIMRT QAand the clinical experience of the group members are used to develop guidelines and recommendations on tolerance and action limits forIMRT QA. Steps to check failedIMRT QAplans are outlined.

Conclusion

Recommendations on delivery methods, data interpretation, dose normalization, the use of γ analysis routines and choice of tolerance limits forIMRT QAare made with focus on detecting differences between calculated and measured doses via the use of robust analysis methods and an in‐depth understanding ofIMRTverification metrics. The recommendations are intended to improve theIMRT QAprocess and establish consistent, and comparableIMRT QAcriteria among institutions.
An International Urogynecological Association (IUGA)/International Continence Society (ICS) joint report on the terminology for the assessment of sexual health of women with pelvic floor dysfunction
Authors: Rogers Rebecca G. , Pauls Rachel N. , Thakar Ranee , Morin Melanie , Kuhn Annette , Petri Eckhard , Fatton Brigitte , Whitmore Kristene , Kinsberg Sheryl , Lee Joseph
Published: February 2018

Aims

The terminology in current use for sexual function and dysfunction in women with pelvic floor disorders lacks uniformity, which leads to uncertainty, confusion, and unintended ambiguity. The terminology for the sexual health of women with pelvic floor dysfunction needs to be collated in a clinically‐based consensus report.

Methods

This report combines the input of members of the Standardization and Terminology Committees of two International Organizations, the International Urogynecological Association (IUGA), and the International Continence Society (ICS), assisted at intervals by many external referees. Internal and external review was developed to exhaustively examine each definition, with decision‐making by collective opinion (consensus). Importantly, this report is not meant to replace, but rather complement current terminology used in other fields for female sexual health and to clarify terms specific to women with pelvic floor dysfunction.

Results

A clinically based terminology report for sexual health in women with pelvic floor dysfunction encompassing over 100 separate definitions, has been developed. Key aims have been to make the terminology interpretable by practitioners, trainees, and researchers in female pelvic floor dysfunction. Interval review (5‐10 years) is anticipated to keep the document updated and as widely acceptable as possible.

Conclusion

A consensus‐based terminology report for female sexual health in women with pelvic floor dysfunction has been produced aimed at being a significant aid to clinical practice and a stimulus for research.
A cross sectional single institution study of quality of life in adult patients with spina bifida
Authors: Coco Caitlin T. , Meenakshi‐Sundaram Bhalaajee , Eldefrawy Ahmed , Henry Millard L. , Watts Tanya , Aston Christopher E. , Lewis Jennifer , Frimberger Dominic C. , Slobodov Gennady
Published: February 2018

Objective

To describe and compare differences in perception of independence, urinary continence, and quality of life in an adult spina bifida (SB) population.

Methods

We collected data on adult neurogenic bladder patients which included demographics, relevant procedures, and quality of life (QoL) questionnaires. QoL and functional outcomes were assessed using spinal cord independence measure (SCIM) and SF‐8 health questionnaire. International consultation of incontinence questionnaire (ICIQ) was used to assess incontinence. Comparisons were drawn between patients who underwent surgical reconstruction and those who did not. Student t‐tests were used for comparisons and a P‐value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Fifty‐four patients with SB were included. A total of 43% underwent bladder augmentation (BA) and 30% underwent antegrade continence enema (ACE). Patients with BA scored 49 ± 25 on the SCIM survey while those without had higher scores of 68 ± 19 with a P‐value of 0.016. This difference remained evident when patients with ACE were excluded. When comparing ICIQ and SF‐8, no statistically significant differences were found between those who underwent surgical procedures and those who did not.

Conclusions

Assessing QoL in congenital NGB patients is a complex task. In our cohort, patients who underwent BA and ACE were shown to have decreased SCIM scores. SCIM scores for BA patients were significantly higher in patients who did not receive a BA independent of ACE status. SF‐8 and ICIQ scores did not show any statistically significant difference in quality of life survey scores in those who underwent procedures versus those who did not.
Design of an optical sensor for ethylene based on nanofiber bacterial cellulose film and its application for determination of banana storage time
Authors: Pirsa Sajad , Chavoshizadeh Sona
Published: February 2018

In this work, new ethylene gas sensor was developed on the basis of portable bacterial cellulose (BC) nanofiber film doped with KMnO4 (K‐BC). The relationship between the concentration of KMnO4 (8 × 10−3, 8 × 10−4, and 8 × 10−5 mol L−1) and the optical and morphological properties of ethylene sensor was investigated. The Fourier‐transform infrared results showed that some new interactions have occurred between BC membrane and KMnO4. The significant reduction in the relative intensity of the characteristic X‐ray diffraction peak of BC in the doped films clearly indicates that the crystalline fraction decreases as a result of KMnO4 addition. The fabricated K‐BC was used for determination of ethylene concentration. The color, clarity, and absorbance of film at different concentrations of ethylene (10‐2000 μg mL−1) were determined by spectrophotometer. Moisture absorption and water vapor permeability of BC were increased by the addition of KMnO4. Finally, the ethylene optical sensor was used for detection and determination of ethylene concentration in the bunch banana packages.
What is the real “price” of more prenatal screening and fewer diagnostic procedures? Costs and trade‐offs in the genomic era
Authors: Hui Lisa , Norton Mary
Published: February 2018

Any screening approach, including with cell‐free DNA, will have an inferior detection rate compared with 100% diagnostic testing with chromosomal microarrays. Cell‐free DNA‐based screening, however, should not be seen as a threat to informed choice or maximising the benefits of diagnostic testing. Screening methods have become so much better that more women are now comfortable relying on such screening and do not need the certainty of a diagnostic test. This has not lead to a decline in detection of fetal chromosome abnormalities—in fact, we are now seeing historically high yields from prenatal screening.

There are both economic and ethical consequences of offering universal diagnostic testing and abandoning the presumption of a normal infant in otherwise uncomplicated pregnancies. However, for some women, comprehensive information and diagnostic accuracy are important. Offering these women all options, with a careful and comprehensive explanation of the risks and benefits of each, results in outcomes that are best aligned with woman's preferences while at the same time requiring fewer diagnostic tests and lowering costs. It is one of the primary challenges of the modern era of prenatal testing to ensure that women receive sufficient information on which to make informed decisions.
Psychosocial functioning and risk factors among siblings of children with cancer: An updated systematic review
Authors: Long Kristin A. , Lehmann Vicky , Gerhardt Cynthia A. , Carpenter Aubrey L. , Marsland Anna L. , Alderfer Melissa A.
Published: February 2018

Objectives

Siblings' psychosocial adjustment to childhood cancer is poorly understood. This systematic review summarizes findings and limitations of the sibling literature since 2008, provides clinical recommendations, and offers future research directions.

Method

MEDLINE/Pubmed, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, and PsycINFO were searched for articles related to siblings, psychosocial functioning, and pediatric cancer. After systematic screening, studies meeting inclusion criteria were rated for scientific merit, and findings were extracted and synthesized. In total, 102 studies were included (63 quantitative, 35 qualitative, 4 mixed‐methods).

Results

Methodological limitations are common. Mean levels of anxiety, depression, and general adjustment are similar across siblings and comparisons, but symptoms of cancer‐related posttraumatic stress are prevalent. School‐aged siblings display poorer academic functioning and more absenteeism but similar peer relationships as peers. Quality of life findings are mixed. Adult siblings engage in higher levels of risky health behaviors and may have poorer health outcomes than comparisons. Risk factors for poor sibling adjustment include lower social support, poorer family functioning, lower income, non‐White race, and shorter time since diagnosis, but findings are inconsistent. Qualitative themes include siblings' maturity, compassion, and autonomy, but also strong negative emotions, uncertainty, family disruptions, limited parental support, school problems, altered friendships, and unmet needs.

Conclusion

Despite methodological limitations, research indicates a strong need for sibling support. Clinical recommendations include identifying at‐risk siblings and developing interventions to facilitate family communication and increase siblings' social support, cancer‐related knowledge, and treatment involvement. Future longitudinal studies focusing on mechanisms and moderators of siblings' adjustment would inform timing and targets of psychosocial care.
Respirable powder formulation of a shortened vasoactive intestinal peptide analog for treatment of airway inflammatory diseases
Authors: Suzuki Hiroki , Mizumoto Takahiro , Seto Yoshiki , Sato Hideyuki , Onoue Satomi
Published: February 2018

The aim of present study was to develop a respirable powder (RP) of a shortened vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) analog for inhalation. VIP and C‐terminally truncated VIP analogs were synthesized with a solid‐phase method. A structure‐activity relationship (SAR) study was carried out in terms with binding and relaxant activities of the peptides. Prepared RP formulation of a shortened VIP analog was physicochemically characterized by morphological, in vitro aerodynamic, and pharmacological assessments. The SAR study demonstrated that the N‐terminal 23 amino acid residues were required for biological activity of VIP. Upon chemical modification of VIP(1–23), [R15, 20, 21, L17]‐VIP(1–23) was newly developed, which had higher binding activity in rat lung and smooth muscle relaxant effect in mouse stomach than VIP(1–23). The [R15, 20, 21, L17]‐VIP(1–23)‐based RP, [R15, 20, 21, L17]‐VIP(1–23)/RP, exhibited fine in vitro inhalation performance. Airway inflammation evoked by sensitization of antigen in rats was attenuated by pre‐treatment with the [R15, 20, 21, L17]‐VIP(1–23)/RP at a dose of 50 μg‐[R15, 20, 21, L17]‐VIP(1–23)/rat as evidenced by a 70% reduction of recruited inflammatory cells in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. On the basis of these results, [R15, 20, 21, L17]‐VIP(1–23)/RP might be a promising agent for treatment of airway inflammatory diseases.