bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Designing deployable 3D scissor structures with ball‐and‐socket joints
Authors: Chen Xuejin , Jiang Haoming , Xuan Tingting , Huang Lihan , Liu Ligang
Published: July 2018

Scissor structures, which transform from a compact state to an expanded state, are widely used in various fields, ranging from architectural design to aerospace applications. We focus on a challenging problem that breaks through the restriction of planarity: to design scissor structures that expand from one given 3D shape to another 3D shape. To achieve this purpose, we propose a three‐step algorithm to construct a 3D scissor structure that realizes non‐uniform concentration between two different 3D curves. First, the input shapes are divided into scissor segments, which are composed of a sequence of planar scissor units based on the shape correspondence. Secondly, we compute the scissor unit geometry of each segment in a suggestive manner. Finally, the ball‐and‐socket joints with parameterized guide slits are integrated in order to connect the scissor segments, thereby completing the 3D deployment. Judging from a series of simulation and fabrication results, we demonstrate that our approach generates deployable structures for a wide range of 3D shape pairs.
Recent Advances in the Development of Optical Imaging Probes for γ‐Glutamyltranspeptidase
Authors: Luo Zhiliang , An Ruibing , Ye Deju
Published: July 2018

γ‐Glutamyltranspeptidase (GGT) is a cell‐membrane‐bound protease that participates in cellular glutathione and cysteine homeostasis, which are closely related to many physiological and pathological processes. The accurate measurement of GGT activity is useful for the early diagnosis of diseases. In the past few years, many efforts have been made to build optical imaging probes for the detection of GGT activity both in vitro and in vivo. In this Minireview, recent advances in the development of various optical imaging probes for GGT, including activatable fluorescence probes, ratiometric fluorescence probes, and activatable bioluminescence probes, are summarized. This review starts from the instruction of the GGT enzyme and its biological functions, followed by a discussion of activatable fluorescence probes that show off–on fluorescence in response to GGT. GGT‐activatable two‐photon fluorescence imaging probes with improved imaging depth and spatial resolution are also discussed. Ratiometric fluorescence probes capable of accurately reporting on GGT levels through a self‐calibration mechanism are discussed, followed by describing GGT‐activatable bioluminescence probes that can offer a high signal‐to‐background ratio to detect GGT in living mice. Finally, current challenges and further perspectives for the development of molecular imaging probes for GGT are addressed.
Sjögren's syndrome concurrent with protein‐losing gastroenteropathy with secondary systemic capillary leak syndrome : A case report
Authors: Watanabe Kei , Murakami Shinichiro , Misago Masahiro , Yoshikawa Mai , Tamai Daisuke , Nakao Shinichiro , Ueoka Takato , Ito Mototoshi , Shinomura Yasuhisa , Kajiwara Nobuyuki
Published: July 2018

Key Clinical Message

Sjögren's syndrome concurrent with protein‐losing gastroenteropathy can develop into secondary systemic capillary leak syndrome. Thus, it is important to diagnose the condition as soon as possible and simultaneously administer treatment for Sjögren's syndrome, protein‐losing gastroenteropathy, and systemic capillary leak syndrome.
Decreasing Filter Cake Resistance by Using Packing Structures
Authors: Bandelt Riess Peter M. , Engstle Jörg , Kuhn Michael , Briesen Heiko , Först Petra
Published: July 2018

Packed beds used in absorption columns are evaluated to determine whether they can also be beneficial for cake‐forming filtrations. To assess this, model systems are characterized and separated by using a dead‐end filter cell. Filtrations are conducted with different packings; the filtrate amount over time and resulting turbidity are evaluated. Packings increase the filter cake resistance and the separation time of the cakes formed with approximately incompressible solids. However, they exhibit a positive effect on the filtration of a more complex, compressible substance; the process is not only accelerated, but also the quality of the obtained filtrate is not compromised. These results demonstrate potential in the use of packed beds for the filtration of complex biogenic suspensions.
Internal‐Edge‐Substituted Coumarin‐Fused [6]Helicenes: Asymmetric Synthesis, Structural Features, and Control of Self‐Assembly
Authors: Usui Kazuteru , Yamamoto Kosuke , Ueno Yuhei , Igawa Kazunobu , Hagihara Ryusuke , Masuda Toshinobu , Ojida Akio , Karasawa Satoru , Tomooka Katsuhiko , Hirai Go , Suemune Hiroshi
Published: July 2018

π‐Conjugated helicenes containing heteroatoms have attracted significant attention due to their diverse chemical and electronic structures, as well as tunable physical properties. It was rationally anticipated that the self‐assembly of coumarin‐fused helicenes would be controlled by the effects of a substituent on the internal edge of the helix. Here, this work reports the efficient syntheses of coumarin‐fused helicenes 1 a,b (R=Ph, Me), and the enantioselective synthesis of 1 a (R=Ph) by chiral AuI‐catalyzed hydroarylation. The helical structure of 1 was unambiguously determined by X‐ray crystallography. Of particular note, the enantiomerically pure crystal of 1 a adopted a one‐dimensional columnar structure based on π–π stacking interactions, as expected. Furthermore, a significant difference between the fluorescence quantum yields of the enantiomerically pure form and racemate of 1 a was observed.
Absence of electrocardiographic left ventricular hypertrophy is associated with increased mortality after transcatheter aortic valve replacement
Authors: Kampaktsis Polydoros N. , Ullal Ajayram V. , Swaminathan Rajesh V. , Minutello Robert M. , Kim Luke , Bergman Geoffrey S. , Feldman Dmitriy N. , Singh Harsimran , Wong Shing Chiu , Okin Peter M.
Published: July 2018

Background

Electrocardiographic (ECG) left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) has been associated with increased mortality in patients with asymptomatic aortic stenosis (AS) and hypertension. However, patients with symptomatic AS undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) have higher percentages of myocardial fibrosis or amyloidosis that have been associated with decreased ECG voltage and worse outcomes.

Hypothesis

We tested the hypothesis that baseline ECG LVH is independently associated with increased all‐cause mortality after TAVR.

Methods

A total of 231 patients (96 men; mean age 84.7 ± 7.8 years) that underwent TAVR at our institution were included. Cornell voltage, defined as SV3 + RaVL, was used to assess for presence of ECG LVH using gender‐specific cut‐off values. We used the Kaplan‐Meier estimator to derive survival curves. Multivariate Cox regression analysis was used to compare mortality between patients without vs with ECG LVH and adjust for echocardiographic LVH and predictors of mortality in this cohort.

Results

Over a follow‐up time of 16.3 ± 10.4 months, the absence of ECG LVH was significantly associated with increased mortality (40.4% vs 23.6% at 2‐years, log rank P = 0.003). After adjusting for echocardiographic LVH and predictors of mortality in our cohort, the absence of ECG LVH remained a predictor of increased mortality (HR = 1.79, CI 95% 1.02‐3.14, P = 0.042).

Conclusions

The absence of ECG LVH was independently associated with increased mortality in patients undergoing TAVR. Baseline ECG may have an important prognostic role in these patients and could lead to further testing to evaluate for myocardial fibrosis or amyloidosis.
TIMI‐AF score and cardiovascular events in vitamin K antagonists‐naïve outpatients with atrial fibrillation
Authors: Pérez Cabeza Alejandro Isidoro , Bravo Marques Rafael , Chinchurreta Capote Pedro Antonio , Ruiz Mateas Francisco , Fanola Christina L. , Rosas Cervantes Gabriel , González Correa Jose Antonio , Valle Alberca Almudena , Mesa Prado Fidel , López Tejero Sergio , Ruff Christian Thomas
Published: July 2018

Background

The TIMI‐AF score predicts poor outcomes in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and guides selection of anticoagulant therapy by identifying clinical benefit of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) or vitamin K antagonists (VKA).

Hypothesis

Our objective was to determine the ability to predict cardiovascular events according to the TIMI‐AF score in a real‐world population.

Methods

Retrospective observational study of VKA‐naïve patients with AF was seen at a cardiology outpatient clinic in Spain between November 2012 and August 2014. We recorded adverse events (myocardial infarction, systemic embolism or stroke, major bleeding, and death).

Results

The study population comprised of 426 patients (50.7% men, mean age, 69 ± 14 years). The TIMI‐AF score identified 372 patients (87.3%) with a low risk, 50 patients (11.7%) with an intermediate risk, and 4 patients (0.9%) with a high risk. After a mean follow‐up of 423.4 ± 200.1 days, 37 patients (9%) experienced an adverse event. Patients with a TIMI‐AF score ≥ 7 had a poorer cardiovascular prognosis (HR, 6.1; 95%CI, 3.2‐11.7; P < 0.001). The area under the ROC curve of TIMI‐AF was 0.755 (95%CI, 0.669‐0.840; P < 0.001), which was greater than that of CHA2DS2VASc (0.641; 95%CI, 0.559‐0.724; P = 0.004), HAS‐BLED (0.666; 95%CI, 0.578‐0.755; P < 0.001), and SAMeTT2R2 (0.529; 95%CI, 0.422‐0.636; P = 0.565). Similar results were obtained in relation to the net clinical outcome (life‐threatening bleeding, disabling stroke, or all‐cause mortality).

Conclusions

The TIMI‐AF risk score can identify patients who are at greater risk of cardiovascular events and a poor net clinical outcome with a better diagnostic yield than CHA2DS2VASc, HAS‐BLED, and SAMeTT2R2.
d‐Polyarginine Lipopeptides as Intestinal Permeation Enhancers
Authors: Garcia Josep , Fernández‐Blanco Álvaro , Teixidó Meritxell , Sánchez‐Navarro Macarena , Giralt Ernest
Published: July 2018

An estimated 285 million people were living with diabetes in 2010, and this number is expected to reach 440 million by 2030. Current treatment of this disease involves the intradermal injection of insulin analogues. Many alternative administration routes have been proposed, the oral route being the most widely studied. One of the most interesting approaches for insulin delivery is the use of permeation enhancers to increase its transport across the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). Cell‐penetrating peptides (CPPs) are a remarkable example of this family of compounds. Another alternative is the use of medium‐chain fatty acids (MCFAs) to temporally disrupt the tight junctions of the GIT, thereby allowing greater drug transport. A combination of both strategies can provide a synergistic way to increase drug transport through the GIT. In this study we evaluated the complexation of insulin glulisine, an insulin analogue administered subcutaneously or intravenously in clinical practice, with a well‐known CPP modified with the MCFA lauric acid. We prepared several formulations, examined their stability, and tested the best candidates in an intestinal cell‐based model. In particular, two compounds (C12‐r4 and C12‐r6) were found to significantly increase the transport of insulin, and therefore show promise as a new delivery system worthy of further evaluation.
In Situ Decoration of ZnxCd1−xS with FeP for Efficient Photocatalytic Generation of Hydrogen under Irradiation with Visible Light
Authors: Zhu Xianglin , Yu Sijia , Gong Xuezhong , Xue Can
Published: July 2018

FeP as a noble‐metal‐free catalyst has been successfully decorated onto the ZnxCd1−xS photocatalyst surface through an in situ phosphating process. In particular, the 2 % FeP/Zn0.5Cd0.5S−P sample showed the best hydrogen generation activity of 24.45 mmol h−1 g−1 which is over 130 times higher than that of pure Zn0.5Cd0.5S and nearly 1.3 times higher than that of the 1 % Pt‐loaded Zn0.5Cd0.5S−P sample. The apparent quantum yield (AQY) of the 2 % FeP/Zn0.5Cd0.5S−P was estimated to be over 10 % at wavelengths up to 470 nm. The fluorescence spectra and electrochemical measurement results suggest that the decorated FeP not only reduces the overpotential for H2 evolution but also promotes the separation of the photogenerated charge carriers through formation of a heterojunction with Zn0.5Cd0.5S, which eventually leads to the superior activity of the FeP/Zn0.5Cd0.5S−P photocatalyst for visible‐light‐driven hydrogen generation.
Ground motion records for seismic performance assessment: To rotate or not to rotate?
Authors: Giannopoulos Dimitrios , Vamvatsikos Dimitrios
Published: July 2018

The response of a non‐circular structure strongly depends on the orientation of the horizontal ground motion components vis‐à‐vis the structure's principal axes. At the same time, the structural response is also a function of accelerogram characteristics that give rise to considerable record‐to‐record variability even when the incident angle is neglected. Therefore, when the structural orientation relative to the fault geometry is unknown and we have limited resources for estimating the distribution of structural response given the seismic intensity, the question arises as to whether it is preferable to use (1) few records rotated to multiple orientations, (2) many records, each at a random incident angle, or (3) some combination of the two. To this purpose, we subjected several single‐degree‐of‐freedom systems and one plan‐asymmetric multi‐degree‐of‐freedom structure to a pulsive and a non‐pulsive set of ground motions using different combinations of record set size and incident angle rotations. In all cases, the natural record‐to‐record variability of the (unrotated) waveforms clearly outweighed the influence of the record orientation. In addition, the choice of an intensity measure that utilizes the geometric mean of spectral accelerations in both horizontal axes at one or more periods of vibration was found to further enhance this difference, essentially nullifying the already small effect of the incident angle. In all cases, spending any significant proportion of the limited number of dynamic analyses to incorporate the effect of incident angle was detrimental to the fidelity of the estimated performance.
Exploring the effect of design asymmetry in vehicular communication using visible light communication technology
Authors: Tomas Boris , Vrcek Neven
Published: July 2018

Nature of visible light communication (VLC) in vehicle‐to‐vehicle (V2V) communication is such that it does involve certain aspects of asymmetry. This concept is known issue in wireless networking systems, and it is one of the reasons for the famous node deafness issue. It degrades network performance and it is addressed in various network layers and protocols, especially media access control protocol. This paper investigates effects of asymmetry on communication performance in V2V networks using VLC. Scientific community has recognized asymmetry as an issue that causes communication performance degradation, even in VLC communication. Furthermore, this paper defines different types of asymmetry in V2V communication networks using VLC technology. Finally, simulation experiment is conducted in a controlled environment, which tests the specific types of asymmetry (design) as a cause of network performance degradation. Data and results are analyzed and interpreted; they show that asymmetry (design) is not a significant issue in vehicular communication using VLC. However, results are strictly referring to specific domain, ie, vehicular communication using VLC technology in dense urban environments.
Decline in mortality in patients with dementia: Results from a nationwide cohort of 44 258 patients in the Netherlands during 2000 to 2008
Authors: van de Vorst Irene E. , Vaartjes Ilonca , Bots Michiel L. , Koek Huiberdina L.
Published: July 2018

Objective

To investigate whether mortality and readmission risk have changed over the last decade.

Methods

Prospective hospital‐based cohort of 44 258 patients with dementia admitted to hospital or visiting a day clinic between 2000 and 2008. Absolute risks (ARs) of 1‐ and 3‐year mortality and 1‐year hospital readmission were quantified and stratified by type of care (day clinic or inpatient care). Cox models were used to compare hazard ratios (HRs), adjusted for age, sex, comorbidity, of death, and readmission across the years using 2000 as the reference group.

Results

One‐year mortality declined among men visiting a day clinic (AR in 2008 versus 2000: 13.0%, 29.9%; HR 0.41, 95% CI, 0.30‐0.55). Among inpatients, these ARs were 48.7%, 53.0% (HR 0.85, 95% CI, 0.77‐0.94). Three‐year mortality also declined (AR for men visiting a day clinic: 37.5%, 58.4%, HR 0.53, 95% CI, 0.43‐0.64; for inpatients: 74.4%, 78.9%, HR 0.80, 95% CI, 0.73‐0.88). Whereas 1‐year readmission risk decreased among men visiting a day clinic (AR 44.1%, 65.9%, HR 0.52, 95% CI, 0.43‐0.63), the risk increased among inpatients (AR 36.9%, 27.6%, HR 1.48, 95% CI, 1.28‐1.72).

Conclusion

One‐ and 3‐year mortality remarkably declined. One‐year hospital readmission risk increased among inpatients and decreased among patients visiting a day clinic. The results should raise awareness for the increased survival with dementia, as this has direct consequences for patients and (in)formal caregivers, and probably also for health care costs.
Policy of prevention: Medical utilization under a wellness plan
Authors: Danagoulian Shooshan
Published: July 2018

Wellness programs constitute central components of disease prevention efforts under the Affordable Care Act and are likely to remain a component of employer provided health insurance. This paper evaluates the impact of such programs on medical utilization 4 to 7 years after enrollment in the plan. Using a unique suited data provided by a large private employer, I analyze medical expenditure and utilization for individuals enrolled in a wellness plan. The analysis compares expenditures and visits between wellness members and nonmembers who are matched through propensity score methods. The results show that although the wellness program increases utilization of preventive and outpatient care, by as much as 1.57 visits per year, there is no comparable decline in emergency or inpatient care, resulting in an overall increase in medical expenditure of around $507 per person per year. The increase in medical expenditure persists even 6 to 7 years of continued enrollment in wellness. I find some evidence of improved health, as diagnoses of diabetes decline 0.8 percentage points among wellness members. The results suggest that employer savings stemming from improved health and more judicious use of medical services are not likely to materialize in this wellness program.
The relationship between participation in different types of training programs and gainful employment for formerly incarcerated individuals
Authors: Flatt Candace , Jacobs Ronald L.
Published: July 2018

According to the U.S. Department of Justice (2007), over 10,000 formerly incarcerated individuals are released each week from federal and state prisons. The purpose of this study is to draw upon human capital theory to examine the relationships between the types of training programs and gainful employment for formerly incarcerated individuals. Three types of training programs considered in this study are school‐based training programs, pre‐employment training programs, and postemployment training programs. Generalized linear mixed models are used to determine if each type of training program is related to employment status and income. Based on a sample from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth 1997 (NLSY97), postemployment training programs are positively related to gainful employment for formerly incarcerated individuals. This result emphasizes the pivotal role of employers in addressing mass incarceration through human resources development (HRD).
Supporting the Narrative Agency of a Marginalized Engineering Student
Authors: Secules Stephen , Gupta Ayush , Elby Andrew , Tanu Emilia
Published: July 2018

Background

Quantitative researchers have noted the impact of mentoring and support programming for students from underrepresented groups in engineering. Qualitative researchers have also noted the importance of student agency in persistence through marginalization. Nevertheless, challenges and questions remain in identifying practices which are effective in supporting underrepresented students.

Purpose

The study applies scholarship from critical theory and narrative as a new resource for approaching and understanding the process of supporting marginalized student agency.

Method

A longitudinal interview study with a female undergraduate engineering student, Emilia, developed into a way for her to process marginalizing educational experiences and to develop new narratives that expanded her agency. After an in‐depth member check, Emilia became a co‐author contributing a post hoc account of the impact of these discussions.

Results

Our analysis indicates that naming one's own oppression and creating narratives that repurpose and resituate stereotypical stories of oppression was a liberatory act for Emilia. We trace three marginalizing themes of the participant's experience that are subverted and resisted through the student co‐constructed narrative.

Conclusions

The paper builds theory for diversity support, suggesting critical theorizing may present a new form of agency not yet represented in the literature. It also points to possible value for student participants from qualitative methodologies exploring student experiences. Finally, it suggests supporting critical theorizing as a potential new orientation for diversity practitioners.
Recent recovery of surface wind speed in northwest China
Authors: Li Yupeng , Chen Yaning , Li Zhi , Fang Gonghuan
Published: July 2018

Previous studies have reported that much of the surface wind speed (SWS) over the mid‐latitudes of the northern hemisphere has declined. However, very few studies have investigated the relatively recent phenomenon of wind recovery. Based on 68 wind data series, this paper examines changes in wind speed in northwest China between 1969 and 2015. In 1992, following a decade of sharply decreasing at a rate of 0.036 m s−1 a−1 (p < .05), the SWS began to significant increase at a rate of 0.004 m s−1 a−1. The specific reasons for this increase are as follows: (a) The decrease in SWS during the pre‐1992 slowdown period is the result of declining wind speeds in spring and summer, whereas increases in wind speed during the post‐1992 recovery period are caused by increased wind in winter. (b) The number of days featuring strongly varying wind speeds has changed. Specifically, the number of days above 2 m s−1 all show a significant decreasing trend from 1969 to 1992, whereas the number of days of 1–3 m s−1 shows a significant upward trend from 1993 to 2015. (c) Stations located between 1,000 and 1,500 m.a.s.l. (meter above sea level) are more sensitive to climate change than those at other altitudes, which shows the biggest decline (increase) trend during wind speed slowdown (recovery) period. These stations could potentially act as climatic indicators to predict future wind speed changes. SWS in northwest China have been affected by changes both in large‐scale atmospheric circulation and in regional warming. Surface pressure gradient variations between high‐ and low‐latitude regions may be important contributors to wind speed changes under asymmetric warming. However, urbanization is only moderately responsible for trend changes in SWS.
Dependence of 3‐month Standardized Precipitation‐Evapotranspiration Index dryness/wetness sensitivity on climatological precipitation over southwest China
Authors: Sun Shanlei , Chen Haishan , Li Jinjian , Wei Jiangfeng , Wang Guojie , Sun Ge , Hua Wenjian , Zhou Shujia , Deng Peng
Published: July 2018

In this study, we estimated the respective contributions of precipitation and reference evapotranspiration (ET0) to annual SPEI‐3 (3‐month Standardized Precipitation‐Evapotranspiration Index) anomalies over southwest China (SWC) using numerical experiments. Results show that the dominant factor (i.e., precipitation or ET0) for the dryness/wetness anomalies during 1961–2012 existed due to inter‐annual and inter‐decadal changes over SWC, which indicates the underlying mechanisms of dry/wet conditions have changed. On the other hand, we calculate the dryness/wetness sensitivity to precipitation or ET0 (defined as changes in SPEI‐3 per millimetre) and find that the dryness/wetness sensitivity to ET0 is higher than that to precipitation for the whole SWC and the overwhelming majority (99%) of the 269 sites. Overall, the above findings imply that the role of ET0 in the dry/wet condition evolution is vital and should be paid more attentions. For the magnitude of the dryness/wetness sensitivity to precipitation or ET0, an evident increase from the southeast to northwest SWC is identified. Based on the analyses of the relationship between dryness/wetness sensitivity and climatological condition (i.e., precipitation, ET0, and aridity), the sensitivity magnitude is dependent on climatological precipitation and generally decreases with its increase. This study provides a wealth of quantitative information (e.g., dryness/wetness anomalies [sensitivity] caused by [to] precipitation and ET0) for better understanding the underlying mechanisms of the dry/wet condition evolution.
Upper‐level winds over eastern North America: A regional jet stream climatology
Authors: Melamed‐Turkish Kai , Taylor Peter A. , Liu John
Published: July 2018

Although it is well known that jet streams play a vital role in everyday weather and long‐term climate variability, very few regional climatological studies on jet streams exist to date. Using the high‐resolution North American Regional Reanalysis (NARR), this study aims to create a preliminary jet stream, and more specifically a jet core, database for a relatively narrow region in eastern North America covering the period 1979 through 2016 inclusive. We use regional maxima in the smoothed horizontal wind field to locate both the latitudinal and vertical (pressure) location of jet cores along specific meridians. Results show that the median pressure level of all jet cores in the region of interest is 250 hPa and that two is the most likely number of distinct jet cores to occur along a given meridian at any given time. The jet cores are categorized into three bins based on their latitude in an attempt to capture the characteristics of the different tropopause‐level jet types. However, as the vertical and horizontal extents of the jet streams were not analysed, we cannot conclude for certain that each of the geographical bins corresponds to specific jet types. Statistically significant negative trends in the seasonal and overall mean pressure of the jet cores, implying an increased height, supports the findings of previous studies. Our analysis of NARR winds shows that jet core wind speeds increased in the region studied. This may be related to the increased height of jet cores through the thermal wind equation as well as increased baroclinicity across sections of the region studied. Jet core latitude and meridional circulation index (MCI) trends were generally negligible and not statistically significant. An absence of significant increases in |MCI| diverges from expectations and some theories of what to expect with Arctic amplification in a warming world.
State of the UK climate 2017
Authors: Kendon Mike , McCarthy Mark , Jevrejeva Svetlana , Matthews Andrew , Legg Tim
Published: July 2018

INTRODUCTION

This report provides a summary of the UK weather and climate through the calendar year 2017, alongside the historical context for a number of essential climate variables. This is the fourth in a series of annual “State of the UK climate” publications and an update to the 2016 report (Kendon et al., ). It provides an accessible, authoritative and up‐to‐date assessment of UK climate trends, variations and extremes based on the most up to date observational datasets of climate quality.

The majority of this report is based on observations of temperature, precipitation, sunshine and wind speed from the UK land weather station network as managed by the Met Office and a number of key partners and co‐operating volunteers. The observations are carefully managed such that they conform to current best practice observational standards as defined by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). The observations also pass through a range of quality assurance procedures at the Met Office before application for climate monitoring. In addition, time series of near‐coast sea‐surface temperature and sea‐level rise are also presented.

The report presents summary statistics for year 2017 and the most recent decade (2008–2017) against 1961–1990 and 1981–2010 averages. 2008–2017 is a non‐standard reference period, but it provides a 10‐year “snapshot” of the most recent experience of the UK’s climate and how that compares to historical records. This means differences between 2008–2017 and the baseline reference averages may reflect shorter‐term decadal variations as well as long‐term trends. These data are presented to show what has happened in recent years, not necessarily what is expected to happen in a changing climate.

The majority of maps in this report show year 2017 against the 1981–2010 baseline reference averaging period—i.e., they are anomaly maps which show the spatial variation in this difference from average. Maps of actual values are not displayed because these are dominated by the underlying climatology, which for this report is of a lesser interest than the year‐to‐year variability.

Throughout the report’s text the terms “above normal” and “above average” etc. refer to the 1981–2010 baseline reference averaging period unless otherwise stated. Values quoted in tables throughout this report are rounded, but where the difference between two such values is quoted in the text (for example comparing the most recent decade with 1981–2010), this difference is calculated from the original unrounded values.
New fast response in‐plane switching liquid crystal mode
Authors: Matsushima Toshiharu , Seki Kenta , Kimura Shunichi , Iwakabe Yasushi , Yata Tatsuya , Watanabe Yoshihiro , Komura Shinichi
Published: July 2018

This study aims to develop a novel in‐plane switching liquid crystal display with a fast response time, known as short‐range lurch control in‐plane switching (SLC‐IPS) mode. We found that the distance l, which is orthogonal to the liquid crystal layer thickness, affects the response properties of the liquid crystal display mode. The distance l was obtained using a simple electrode structure. The SLC‐IPS obtained by this structure exhibits a response that is approximately three times faster than that of a conventional IPS. We applied the SLC‐IPS to virtual reality head‐mounted displays and confirmed that its response properties satisfy the requirements for moving picture quality.
Latest advances in intervertebral disc development and progenitor cells
Authors: Séguin Cheryle A. , Chan Danny , Dahia Chitra L. , Gazit Zulma
Published: July 2018

This paper is a concise review aiming to assemble the most relevant topics presented by the authors at ORS‐Philadelphia Spine Research Society Fourth International Spine Research Symposium. It centers on the latest advances in disc development, its main structural entities, and the populating cells, with emphasis on the advances in pivotal molecular pathways responsible for forming the intervertebral discs (IVD). The objective of finding and emphasizing pathways and mechanisms that function to control tissue formation is to identify and to explore modifications occurring during normal aging, disease, and tissue repair. Thus, to comprehend that the cellular and molecular basis of tissue degeneration are crucial in the study of the dynamic interplay that includes cell‐cell communication, gene regulation, and growth factors required to form a healthy and functional tissue during normal development.
Rapid characterization and identification of the chemical constituents and rat metabolites of Deng‐Zhan‐Xi‐Xin injection using ultra high performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry
Authors: Guo Xin , Lin Shan , Yang Peiming , Ye Ji , Du Jiang , Mu Xuemei , Mi Nan , Qi Xiaopo , Lei Huibo , Zhang Weidong , Tian Xinhui
Published: July 2018

Deng‐Zhan‐Xi‐Xin injection is a well‐known traditional Chinese medicine prescription for the treatment of cardiovascular and cerebral vessel diseases. However, there have been few reports on its chemical constituents and metabolic pathway, which has blocked its further quality control and studies on its pharmacology and mechanism of action. In this study, an integrative method was established to rapidly explore the chemical constituents and metabolites of Deng‐Zhan‐Xi‐Xin injection using ultra high performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time‐of‐flight tandem mass spectrometry and the UNIFI™ software combined with multiple data processing approaches. As a result, a total of 40 compounds, including 9 flavonoids and 31 phenolic acids were identified or tentatively characterized, and five compounds were first reported in Deng‐Zhan‐Xi‐Xin injection. Under the same analysis conditions, 70 compounds have been detected in rats, including 25 prototypes and 45 metabolites. This was the first systematic research study on the metabolic profiling of Deng‐Zhan‐Xi‐Xin injection. This study provides valuable chemical information for the quality control and research on pharmacology and mechanism of action of Deng‐Zhan‐Xi‐Xin injection. Moreover, it provides a valuable strategy for analyzing the chemical components and metabolites of other traditional Chinese medicine prescriptions.
Quantification of artesunate and its metabolite, dihydroartemisinin, in animal products using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Zheng Weijia , Abd El‐Aty A. M. , Kim Seong‐Kwan , Choi Jeong‐Min , Hacımüftüoğlu Ahmet , Shim Jae‐Han , Kang Young‐Sun , Shin Ho‐Chul
Published: July 2018

An analytical approach using a modified quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe extraction method followed by liquid chromatography with electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry was developed herein for the determination of artesunate and its metabolite, dihydroarteminsinin in porcine muscle, egg, eel, flatfish, and shrimp. 10% trichloroacetic acid in acetonitrile mixed with ethyl acetate was used as an extraction solvent. To obtain a good separation, a Phenomenex Kinetex reversed‐phase analytical column was selected with mobile phase consisting of distilled water (A) and acetonitrile (B), both containing 0.05% formic acid. Good linearity was achieved using matrix‐matched calibrations constructed from six concentrations (5–50 μg/kg) with determinant coefficients ≥0.9918. Recoveries estimated from three spiking concentrations (5, 10, and 20 μg/kg) ranged between 71.3 and 104.7% in all matrixes with relative standard deviations ≤8.3%. A variety of samples purchased from markets in Seoul were tested following the protocol described herein. The artesunate and dihydroarteminsinin were not detected in any matrix. The methodology proposed could be used for routine determination of artesunate and its metabolite, dihydroartemisinin in various animal products having variable percentages of fat and protein.
Assessment of land cover and land use change impact on soil loss in a tropical catchment by using multitemporal SPOT‐5 satellite images and Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation model
Authors: Nampak Haleh , Pradhan Biswajeet , Mojaddadi Rizeei Hossein , Park Hyuck‐Jin
Published: July 2018

Soil erosion is a common land degradation problem and has disastrous impacts on natural ecosystems and human life. Therefore, researchers have focused on detection of land cover–land use changes (LCLUC) with respect to monitoring and mitigating the potential soil erosion. This article aims to appraise the relationship between LCLUC and soil erosion in the Cameron Highlands (Malaysia) by using multitemporal satellite images and ancillary data. Land clearing and heavy rainfall events in the study area has resulted in increased soil loss. Moreover, unsustainable development and agricultural practices, mismanagement, and lack of land use policies increase the soil erosion rate. Hence, the main contribution of this study lies in the application of appropriate land management practices in relation to water erosion through identification and prediction of the impacts of LCLUC on the spatial distribution of potential soil loss in a region susceptible to natural hazards such as landslide. The LCLUC distribution within the study area was mapped for 2005, 2010, and 2015 by using SPOT‐5 temporal satellite imagery and object‐based image classification. A projected land cover–land use map was also produced for 2025 through integration of Markov chain and cellular automata models. An empirical‐based approach (Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation) coupled with geographic information system was applied to measure soil loss and susceptibility to erosion over the study area for four periods (2005, 2010, 2015, and 2025). The model comprises five parameters, namely, rainfall factor, soil erodibility, topographical factor, conservation factor, and support practice factor. Results exhibited that the average amount of soil loss increased by 31.77 t ha−1 yr−1 from 2005 to 2015 and was predicted to dramatically increase in 2025. The results generated from this research recommends that awareness of spatial and temporal patterns of high soil loss risk areas can help deploy site‐specific soil conservation measures and erosion mitigation processes and prevent unsystematic deforestation and urbanization by the authorities.
Poly(Pentafluorophenyl Methacrylate)‐Based Nano‐Objects Developed by Photo‐PISA as Scaffolds for Post‐Polymerization Functionalization
Authors: Couturaud Benoit , Georgiou Panagiotis G. , Varlas Spyridon , Jones Joseph R. , Arno Maria C. , Foster Jeffrey C. , O'Reilly Rachel K.
Published: July 2018

The preparation of a functional fluorine‐containing block copolymer using reversible addition–fragmentation chain‐transfer dispersion polymerization in DMSO as a “platform/scaffold” is explored. The nanostructures, comprised of poly(ethyleneglycol)‐b‐poly(pentafluorophenyl methacrylate) or PEG‐b‐P(PFMA), are formulated via photo‐initiated polymerization‐induced self‐assembly (PISA) followed by post‐polymerization modification using different primary amines. A combination of light scattering and microscopy techniques are used to characterize the resulting morphologies. It is found that upon varying the degree of polymerization of the core‐forming block of PFMA, only uniform spheres (with textured surfaces) are obtained. These nanostructures are subsequently modified by cross‐linking using a non‐responsive and a redox‐responsive diamine, thus imparting stability to the particles in water. In response to intracellular glutathione (GSH) concentration, destabilization of the micelles occurs as evidenced by dynamic light scattering. The well‐defined size, inherent reactivity of the nanoparticles toward nucleophiles, and GSH‐responsiveness of the nanospheres make them ideal scaffolds for drug delivery to intracellular compartments with reductive environments.
On temporal decay of solution to the three‐dimensional compressible flow of nematic liquid crystal in Besov space
Authors: Liu Qiao
Published: July 2018

In this paper, we investigate large time behavior of global‐in‐time strong solution to the three‐dimensional compressible flow of nematic liquid crystal with low regularity assumptions on initial datum. More precisely, we show that the negative Besov space
‐norms (s ≥ 0) of solution are preserved along time evolution; by using this fact together with the conventional energy estimates in Besov space framework and the interpolation inequalities, we establish that, for the initial perturbation
just small in homogeneous Besov space
, the global‐in‐time strong solution to the Cauchy problem of the compressible flow of nematic liquid crystal has the following optimal temporal decay rate:

urn:x-wiley:mma:media:mma5176:mma5176-math-0004
provided that we further assume that
still belongs to
. Here,
is a constant unite vector. To illustrate our methods clearly, we also revisit the optimal temporal decay of solutions to the heat equation in the framework of Besov space.
Corrigendum to “On the absence of global weak solutions for some differential inequalities of Sobolev type in an exterior domain” [Math Meth Appl Sci. 2018;1–15. https://doi.org/10.1002/mma.5080]
Authors: Jleli Mohamed , Kirane Mokhtar , Samet Bessem
Published: July 2018

We made slight corrections to the definitions of global weak solutions to problems (2), (3), and (4) in the paper “On the absence of global weak solutions for some differential inequalities of Sobolev type in an exterior domain” [Math Meth Appl Sci. 2018;1–15. https://doi.org/10.1002/mma.5080].
Spectrochemical Properties and Solvatochromism of Tetradentate Schiff Base Complex with Nickel: Calculations and Experiments
Authors: Gonciarz Agnieszka , Żuber Marian , Zwoździak Jerzy
Published: July 2018

The nickel(II) complex with a tetradentate Schiff base ligand obtained by condensation of 1,3‐propanediamine with salicylaldehyde (H2salpn) was studied in a variety of solvents at room temperature. The product, that is, the N′,N′′‐propylenebis(salicylaldiminato)nickel(II) ([Ni(salpn)]) complex, is brown in color in the solid state. The properties of the ligand and complex were characterized by elemental analysis, solubility in common solvents, molar conductivities, and ultraviolet (UV) and visible (Vis) spectroscopy. The [Ni(salpn)] complex is easily soluble in common solvents such as chloroform, methanol, ethanol, dimethyl formamide, dimethyl sulfoxide, acetonitrile, dioxane, acetone, 2‐propanol, and toluene—a necessary condition for observing solvatochromism. The molar conductivity values, equal to 0.0 S mol‐1 cm2 in these solvents, point to a typical non‐electrolyte behavior for this complex. Spectroscopic measurements were used to confirm the square‐planar geometry of the species in solution and to determine the coordination properties of the donor atoms and their bonding abilities (CFM/AOM parameters), as well as trichromaticity coordinate calculations. The results obtained show that the interactions of the metal with the donors depend on the polarity of the solvent.
Induced pluripotent stem cells for treating cystic fibrosis: State of the science
Authors: Pollard Bette S. , Pollard Harvey B.
Published: July 2018

Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are a recently developed technology in which fully differentiated cells such as fibroblasts from individual CF patients can be repaired with [wildtype] CFTR, and reprogrammed to differentiate into fully differentiated cells characteristic of the proximal and distal airways. Here, we review properties of different epithelial cells in the airway, and the in vitro genetic roadmap which iPSCs follow as they are step‐wise differentiated into either basal stem cells, for the proximal airway, or into Type II Alveolar cells for the distal airways. The central theme is that iPSC‐derived basal stem cells, are penultimately dependent on NOTCH signaling for differentiation into club cells, goblet cells, ciliated cells, and neuroendocrine cells. Furthermore, given the proper matrix, these cellular progenies are also able to self‐assemble into a fully functional pseudostratified squamous proximal airway epithelium. By contrast, club cells are reserve stem cells which are able to either differentiate into goblet or ciliated cells, but also to de‐differentiate into basal stem cells. Variant club cells, located at the transition between airway and alveoli, may also be responsible for differentiation into Type II Alveolar cells, which then differentiate into Type I Alveolar cells for gas exchange in the distal airway. Using gene editing, the mutant CFTR gene in iPSCs from CF patients can be repaired, and fully functional epithelial cells can thus be generated through directed differentiation. However, there is a limitation in that the lung has other CFTR‐dependent cells besides epithelial cells. Another limitation is that there are CFTR‐dependent cells in other organs which would continue to contribute to CF disease. Furthermore, there are also bystander or modifier genes which affect disease outcome, not only in the lung, but specifically in other CF‐affected organs. Finally, we discuss future personalized applications of the iPSC technology, many of which have already survived the “proof‐of‐principle” test. These include (i) patient‐derived iPSCs used as a “lung‐on‐a‐chip” tool for personalized drug discovery; (ii) replacement of mutant lung cells by wildtype lung cells in the living lung; and (iii) development of bio‐artificial lungs. It is hoped that this review will give the reader a roadmap through the most complicated of the obstacles, and foster a guardedly optimistic view of how some of the remaining obstacles might one day be overcome.
Successful management of Halyomorpha halys (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) in commercial apple orchards with an attract‐and‐kill strategy
Authors: Morrison William R , Blaauw Brett R , Short Brent D , Nielsen Anne L , Bergh James C , Krawczyk Greg , Park Yong‐Lak , Butler Bryan , Khrimian Ashot , Leskey Tracy C
Published: July 2018

BACKGROUND

Introduction of Halyomorpha halys (Stål) in the USA has disrupted many established integrated pest management programs for specialty crops, especially apple. While current management heavily relies on insecticides, one potential alternative tactic is attract‐and‐kill (AK), whereby large numbers of H. halys are attracted to and retained in a circumscribed area using attractive semiochemicals and removed from the foraging population with an insecticide. The goal of this study was to evaluate if AK implementation in commercial apple orchards can result in levels of H. halys damage that are equal to or less than those from grower standard management programs.

RESULTS

Over 2 years at farms in five Mid‐Atlantic USA states, we found that the use of AK resulted in 2–7 times less damage compared with grower standard plots, depending on year and period. At selected trees on which AK was implemented, over 10,000 H. halys individuals were killed in two growing seasons, and the use of AK reduced the crop area treated with insecticide against H. halys by 97%. Using AK had no impact on the natural enemy or secondary pest community over the same period.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, the use of AK was effective at managing low to moderate H. halys populations in apple orchards, but must be optimized to increase economic feasibility for grower adoption. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Observer‐based H∞ control for Markovian jump systems with time‐varying delays and incomplete transition rates
Authors: Shu Feng , Li Min , Huang Qinzhen , Wang Jun
Published: July 2018

This paper addresses the observer‐based H∞ control of Markovian jump systems with interval time‐varying delays and incomplete transition rates. To reduce the conservatism of proposed results, a modified Lyapunov‐Krasovskii functional is constructed, where an improved delay partitioning method is used by partitioning the delay interval into multiple segments with a geometric sequence. Moreover, the Jensen‐based integral inequality and the reciprocally convex technique are used to tackle the time‐varying delays. Some less conservative stochastic stability criteria are derived in the framework of linear matrix inequalities. Then, the observer‐based H∞ controller is designed. Finally, three numerical examples are given to demonstrate the merit and effectiveness of the proposed method.