bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effects of ephrinB2 signaling on proliferation and invasion in glioblastoma multiforme
Authors: Bhatia Shilpa , Bukkapatnam Sanjana , Van Court Benjamin , Phan Andy , Oweida Ayman , Gadwa Jacob , Mueller Adam C. , Piper Miles , Darragh Laurel , Nguyen Diemmy , Gilani Ahmed , Knitz Michael , Bickett Thomas , Green Adam , Venkataraman Sujatha , Vibhakar Rajeev , Cittelly Diana , Karam Sana D.
Published: June 2020

The aggressive nature of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) may be attributed to the dysregulation of pathways driving both proliferation and invasion. EphrinB2, a membrane‐bound ligand for some of the Eph receptors, has emerged as a critical target regulating these pathways. In this study, we investigated the role of ephrinB2 in regulating proliferation and invasion in GBM using intracranial and subcutaneous xenograft models. The Cancer Genome Atlas analysis suggested high transcript and low methylation levels of ephrinB2 as poor prognostic indicators in GBM, consistent with its role as an oncogene. EphrinB2 knockdown, however, increased tumor growth, an effect that was reversed by ephrinB2 Fc protein. This was associated with EphB4 receptor activation, consistent with the data showing a significant decrease in tumor growth with ephrinB2 overexpression. Mechanistic analyses showed that ephrinB2 knockdown has anti‐invasive but pro‐proliferative effects in GBM. EphB4 stimulation following ephrinB2 Fc treatment in ephrinB2 knockdown tumors was shown to impart strong anti‐proliferative and anti‐invasive effects, which correlated with decrease in PCNA, p‐ERK, vimentin, Snail, Fak, and increase in the E‐cadherin levels. Overall, our study suggests that ephrinB2 cannot be used as a sole therapeutic target. Concomitant inhibition of ephrinB2 signaling with EphB4 activation is required to achieve maximal therapeutic benefit in GBM.
POLE and POLD1 germline exonuclease domain pathogenic variants, a rare event in colorectal cancer from the Middle East
Authors: Siraj Abdul K. , Bu Rong , Iqbal Kaleem , Parvathareddy Sandeep K. , Masoodi Tariq , Siraj Nabil , Al‐Rasheed Maha , Kong Yan , Ahmed Saeeda O. , Al‐Obaisi Khadija A. S. , Victoria Ingrid G. , Arshad Maham , Al‐Dayel Fouad , Abduljabbar Alaa , Ashari Luai H. , Al‐Kuraya Khawla S.
Published: June 2020

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major contributor to morbidity and mortality related to cancer. Only ~5% of all CRCs occur as a result of pathogenic variants in well‐defined CRC predisposing genes. The frequency and effect of exonuclease domain pathogenic variants of POLE and POLD1 genes in Middle Eastern CRCs is still unknown.

Methods

Targeted capture sequencing and Sanger sequencing technologies were employed to investigate the germline exonuclease domain pathogenic variants of POLE and POLD1 in Middle Eastern CRCs. Immunohistochemical analysis of POLE and POLD1 was performed to look for associations between protein expression and clinico‐pathological characteristics.

Results

Five damaging or possibly damaging variants (0.44%) were detected in 1,135 CRC cases, four in POLE gene (0.35%, 4/1,135) and one (0.1%, 1/1,135) in POLD1 gene. Furthermore, low POLE protein expression was identified in 38.9% (417/1071) cases and a significant association with lymph node involvement (p = .0184) and grade 3 tumors (p = .0139) was observed. Whereas, low POLD1 expression was observed in 51.9% (555/1069) of cases and was significantly associated with adenocarcinoma histology (p = .0164), larger tumor size (T3 and T4 tumors; p = .0012), and stage III tumors (p = .0341).

Conclusion

POLE and POLD1 exonuclease domain pathogenic variants frequency in CRC cases was very low and these exonuclease domain pathogenic variants might be rare causative events of CRC in the Middle East. POLE and POLD1 can be included in multi‐gene panels to screen CRC patients.
Evaluation of color measurement accuracy and its dependence on time for hand‐held print‐art spectrophotometers
Authors: Tarasov Dmitry A. , Milder Oleg B.
Published: June 2020

Color measurement forms the basis of color management and color prediction theory and widely used in all aspects of color reproduction. Spectrophotometers are basic tools in color measurement; however, their photometric accuracy and precision, especially with a temporary resolution, have not been studied enough. In this work, we describe a specially developed experiment for the spectrophotometer's constancy assessment. We invite two common instruments to inspect X‐Rite ColorMunki and X‐Rite i1 Pro. Different precision tests basing on color difference and reflectance comparison are utilized. We obtain coincident results for both instruments. The measured parameters consistently change over time; however, the magnitude of these changes is small. The magnitude of the color difference obtained in the experiment for both devices does not exceed 0.45 (in relative dimensionless units dE).
VNF‐Consensus: A virtual network function for maintaining a consistent distributed software‐defined network control plane
Authors: Venâncio Giovanni , Turchetti Rogério C. , Camargo Edson T. , Duarte Elias P.
Published: June 2020

Software‐defined networks (SDN) usually rely on a centralized controller, which has limited availability and scalability by definition. Although a solution is to employ a distributed control plane, the main issue with this approach is how to maintain the consistency among multiple controllers. Consistency should be achieved with as low impact on network performance as possible and should be transparent for controllers, without requiring any change of the SDN protocols. In this work, we propose VNF‐Consensus, a virtual network function that implements Paxos to ensure strong consistency among controllers of a distributed control plane. In our solution, controllers can perform their control plane activities without having to execute the expensive tasks required to keep consistency. Experimental results are presented showing the cost and benefits of the proposed solution, in particular in terms of low controller overhead.
Research trends in nonprofit graduate studies in China: An inside perspective
Authors: Yang Li , You Fei
Published: June 2020

This paper explores the growth of the academic study of nonprofit management and organizations in China by examining theses and dissertations written in China between 2000 and 2018. Using a keyword search, we collect and review 5,346 abstracts available in the China National Knowledge Infrastructure Thesis and Dissertation database. The number of these theses and dissertations accelerated between 2000 and 2015 and slowed thereafter. Most theses and dissertations focus on the external context of nonprofit organizations (78%) and fewer on nonprofit management per se (22%). Thematic analysis reveals several broad subjects of study including organizational development, the character of the external environment and internal operations, financial and other resource support, and organizational performance. Trends across the 19‐year study period relating to national regions of origin, discipline, and theme are also explored. The development of nonprofit studies in China in some ways resembles the growth of this field in the United States and other western countries in past decades, but with distinct Chinese historical, sociocultural, and geographical characteristics.
Prospective Association of Obesity Patterns with Subclinical Carotid Plaque Development in Early Postmenopausal Chinese Women
Authors: Chung Gary K. K. , Yu Ruby H. Y. , Ho Stella S. Y. , Woo Jean , Chung Roger Y. , Yeoh Eng‐Kiong , Ho Suzanne C.
Published: June 2020

Objective

This study aimed to examine the prospective associations of general and abdominal obesity patterns with carotid plaque development among early postmenopausal Chinese women.

Methods

A total of 518 postmenopausal women aged 50 to 64 years were recruited between 2002 and 2004 and were followed up at 3 years and 5 years. Carotid plaque was measured using B‐mode ultrasonography, whereas general and abdominal obesity were defined as BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 and waist‐hip ratio ≥ 0.85, respectively. Sociodemographic, lifestyle, mental health, disease history, and clinical measurements were also assessed for confounding control. Multivariable binary logistic regression analyses on plaque development at 5 years were performed among 322 women with no carotid plaque at baseline.

Results

Over the 5‐year follow‐up period, 70 women (21.7%) developed carotid plaque. Baseline abdominal obesity independently predicted plaque development (adjusted odds ratio = 2.30; 95% CI: 1.15‐4.60), but general obesity did not. Women with normal‐weight abdominal obesity were more than twice as likely to develop carotid plaque (adjusted odds ratio = 2.43; 95% CI: 1.02‐5.75) compared with women with no obesity, with their risk comparable to women with both general and abdominal obesity.

Conclusions

Abdominal obesity was a critical predictor of subclinical carotid plaque development among early postmenopausal Chinese women. Policy makers should recognize the need to identify high‐risk midlife women with normal‐weight abdominal obesity in public health and clinical practice.
Ecosystem services of temporary streams differ between wet and dry phases in regions with contrasting climates and economies
Authors: Stubbington Rachel , Acreman Mike , Acuña Vicenç , Boon Philip J. , Boulton Andrew J. , England Judy , Gilvear David , Sykes Tim , Wood Paul J.
Published: June 2020

Temporary streams are dynamic ecosystems in which mosaics of flowing, ponded and dry habitats support high biodiversity of both aquatic and terrestrial species. Species interact within habitats to perform or facilitate processes that vary in response to changing habitat availability. A natural capital approach recognizes that, through such processes, the ‘natural assets’ of all ecosystems deliver services that benefit people.

The ecosystem services of temporary streams remain largely unexplored, in particular those provided during ponded and dry phases. In addition, recent characterizations have focused on dryland systems, and it remains unclear how service provision varies among different climatic regions, or between developed and developing economies.

We use evidence from interdisciplinary literature to examine the ecosystem services delivered by temporary streams, including the regulating, provisioning and cultural services provided across the continuum from flowing to dry conditions. We focus on service provision during dry phases and wet–dry transitions, across regions with contrasting climates and economic development.

Provision of individual services in temporary streams may be reduced, enhanced or changed by surface water loss. Services enhanced by dry phases include provision of higher‐quality subsurface drinking water and unique opportunities for recreation. Shifts between dry and wet phases enable groundwater recharge that mitigates water scarcity, and grant dry‐phase access to sediments deposited during flowing phases. However, the accessibility and thus perceived value of these and other services varies considerably among regions. In addition, accessing provisioning services requires careful management to promote sustainable resource use and avoid ecological degradation.

We highlight the need for environmental managers to recognize temporary streams as aquatic–terrestrial ecosystems, and to take actions promoting their diversity within functional socio‐ecological systems that deliver unique service bundles characterized by variability and differing availability in space and time.

A free Plain Language Summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
Internet‐delivered insomnia intervention improves sleep and quality of life for adolescent and young adult cancer survivors
Authors: Zhou Eric S. , Recklitis Christopher J.
Published: June 2020

Background

Insomnia is common among adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer survivors. Cognitive‐behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT‐I) is considered the gold standard treatment. Standard CBT‐I was designed for adults and not adapted to the unique medical, psychosocial, and developmental needs of AYA cancer survivors, which can exacerbate their insomnia. Further, the vast majority of cancer centers do not have a behavioral sleep medicine expert on staff. Our study objective was to examine the efficacy of an Internet‐delivered CBT‐I program that was tailored for AYA cancer survivors (NCT03279055).

Procedure

Twenty‐two AYA cancer survivors (mean age 20.4; range 14‐25) with insomnia enrolled in an automated CBT‐I program modified for AYA cancer survivors following stakeholder feedback. Participants were blood cancer (54.5%) and solid tumor (45.5%) survivors, an average of 9.7 years postdiagnosis. Sleep health, fatigue, and quality of life were assessed at baseline and at two follow up timepoints (8 and 16 weeks postbaseline).

Results

Significant improvements in insomnia severity, daytime sleepiness, fatigue, and quality of life were reported at both follow up timepoints. However, most participants (72.7%) did not complete all of the six study sessions, with a mean completion rate of 3.2 sessions. Participants who completed at least two sessions reported better sleep (insomnia severity index total score) than those who did not.

Conclusions

An Internet‐delivered insomnia intervention adapted for AYA cancer survivors was efficacious. This has important implications for access to evidence‐based clinical care for this growing population. Future efforts should study stepped care models of care and ways to improve treatment adherence.
Does neuroticism disrupt the psychological benefits of nostalgia? a meta-analytic test
Authors: Frankenbach Julius , Wildschut Tim , Juhl Jacob , Sedikides Constantine
Published: June 2020

Nostalgia, a sentimental longing or wistful affection for the past, confers self-oriented, existential, and social benefits. We examined whether nostalgic engagement is less beneficial for individuals who are high in neuroticism (i.e. emotionally unstable and prone to negative affect). Specifically, we tested whether the benefits of experimentally induced nostalgia are moderated by trait-level neuroticism. To address this issue, we conducted a high-powered individual participant data meta-analysis ( N = 3556, k = 19). We found that the benefits of nostalgia were not significantly moderated by neuroticism, as they emerged for both high and low neurotics. This finding upheld when the self-oriented, existential, and social benefits of nostalgia were analysed jointly and when they were analysed separately. Taken together, individuals high and low in neuroticism are equally likely to benefit psychologically from engagement in nostalgic reverie.
Efficient Quantum Dot Light‐Emitting Diodes Based on Well‐Type Thick‐Shell CdxZn1−xS/CdSe/CdyZn1−yS Quantum Dots
Authors: Bai Jinke , Wang Linfeng , Chen Wenyong , Jin Xiao , Li Qinghua , Wang Yuxiao , Zhang Xueru , Song Yinglin
Published: June 2020

Device grade quantum dots (QDs) require QDs ensembles to retain their original superior optical properties as in solution. QDs with thick shells are proven effective in suppressing the inter‐dot interaction and preserving the emission properties for QDs solids. However, lattice strain–induced defects may form as the shell grows thicker, resulting in a notable photoluminescence quenching. Herein, a well‐type CdxZn1−xS/CdSe/CdyZn1−yS QDs is proposed, where ternary alloys CdZnS are adopted to match the lattice parameter of intermediate CdSe by separately adjusting the x and y parameters. The resultant thick‐shell Cd0.5Zn0.5S/CdSe/Cd0.73Zn0.27S QDs reveal nonblinking properties with a high PL QY of 99% in solution and 87% in film. The optimized quantum dot light‐emitting diodes (QLEDs) exhibit a luminance of 31547.5 cd m−2 at the external quantum efficiency maximum of 21.2% under a bias of 4.0 V. The shell thickness shows great impact on the degradation of the devices. The T50 lifetime of the QLEDs with 11.2 nm QDs reaches 251 493 h, which is much higher than that of 6.5 and 8.4 nm QDs counterparts. The performances of the well‐type thick‐shell QLEDs are comparable to state‐of‐the‐art devices, suggesting that this type of QDs is a promising candidate for efficient optoelectronic devices.
Lung function and exercise capacity in prematurely born young people
Authors: Harris Christopher , Lunt Alan , Bisquera Alessandra , Peacock Janet , Greenough Anne
Published: June 2020

Objectives

To determine if lung function abnormalities in young people born very prematurely routinely exposed to antenatal corticosteroids and postnatal surfactant were associated with reduced exercise capacity.

Working Hypothesis

In the current era, lung function abnormalities would not be associated with exercise intolerance

Study Design

Follow‐up of young people from the United Kingdom Oscillation study (UKOS).

Patient‐Subject Selection

One hundred twenty‐six young people of 797 recruited to UKOS, born at a mean gestational age of 27 weeks were assessed at a mean age of 17 years.

Methodology

Forced expiratory flow at 75% of the expired vital capacity (FEF75), forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) and lung volumes (forced vital capacity [FVC]) and residual volume (RV) and functional residual capacity (FRCpleth) were assessed. Abnormal lung function was below the fifth centile and very abnormal lung function below the 2.5th centile. Exercise capacity was assessed using a modified shuttle sprint test and self‐reported hours of exercise.

Results

Thirty‐nine young people had an abnormal FEF75 with an adjusted reduction in sprint distance of 114 m (P = .018) and an adjusted difference in self‐reported exercise of 0.73 hours (P = .036). Twenty‐seven young people had a very abnormal FEF75 with an adjusted reduction in sprint distance of 159 m (P = .002) and adjusted reduction in self‐reported exercise of 1.15 hours (P = .002).

Conclusion

Very prematurely born young people with abnormal airway function had a significant reduction in exercise capacity.
Identification of hub genes and its correlation with the prognosis of acute myeloid leukemia based on high‐throughput data analysis
Authors: Fu Wei , Cheng Guo‐bin , Ding Yao , Deng Ya‐jie , Guo Peng‐xiang
Published: June 2020

Objective

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is one of the most common forms of leukemia in the world, but its molecular mechanism is still not well understood. The aim of this study was, by using multiple AML datasets, to obtain genes with differential expression, and to identify key genes in the development and progression of AML.

Methods

The AML microarray dataset (GSE24395, GSE30029, GSE38865, GSE90062) was downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified and functionally enriched, and a protein–protein interaction network was constructed. Cytoscape was used for module analysis to obtain fundamental genes (hub genes), and combined with The Cancer Genome Atlas clinical data for survival and expression analysis.

Results

A total of 134 DEGs were identified (fold change >1, P < 0.01). Gene enrichment analysis included positive regulation of RNA polymerase II promoter transcriptions (c = 17.967, P = 0.011), neutrophil degranulation (c = 18.625, P = 0.017), integrin‐mediated cells (c = 17.862, P = 0.017), adhesion regulation, neutrophil‐mediated immunity (c = 17.624, P = 0.017), transcriptional disorders in cancer, (c = 14.786, P = 00.031). A total of 16 hub genes were identified. Based on The Cancer Genome Atlas clinical data expression analysis, CYBB (t = 0.368, P = 0.012) and CYFIP2 (t = 2.097, P = 0.038) were abnormally expressed in different living conditions of AML. Survival analysis showed that SERPINE1 (P = 0.031) and ITGAM (P = 0.049) might be involved in invasion or recurrence of AML.

Conclusion

The analysis of DEGs and hub analysis of genes can contribute to understanding the molecular mechanism of AML occurrence and progression, and provides a candidate for the treatment and prognosis of AML.
Application of titanium clip marking in localization of 37 cases of rectal cancer before radiotherapy
Authors: Liu Jin‐qi , Chen Ming , Li Zeng‐jun , Sun Yong‐min , Wang Hai‐peng , Wang Ya‐wei
Published: June 2020

Objectives

At present, locating radiotherapy targets for rectal cancer is mostly assisted by computed tomography (CT) and/or magnetic resonance (MR) imaging. This article discusses the role of the upper and lower margins of rectal cancer lesions under colonoscopy in accurately delineating target areas of radiotherapy.

Methods

A total of 37 patients with rectal cancer diagnosed by histopathology at the Shandong Provincial Cancer Hospital, affiliated with Shandong University, from 1 July 2017 to 1 August 2018 were selected before treatment. The upper and lower margins of the lesion were marked by titanium clips under the assistance of ultrasound and a magnifying endoscope in each patient, as well as the lower edge of the titanium clip from the anal margin. In the same position and in a thermal plastic membrane body fixation device, patients underwent CT and MR examinations to outline the gross tumor target area (GTV). The radiation therapy planning system calculated the length of the GTV under CT and MR (GTVCT, GTVMR), and the distance from the lower edge of the GTV to the anal margin. The application value of titanium clip labeling by colonoscopy in radiotherapy localization for rectal cancer was evaluated according to differences of GTV lengths by three methods.

Results

GTVs measured by endoscopic titanium clip labeling, CT localization, and MR localization were 5.84 ± 2.035 cm,6.97 ± 1.658 cm, and 5.45 ± 2.088 cm, respectively. The length of GTVtitanium clip was not significantly different from the length of GTVMR (P  =  0.162). The marked lesion lengths by the endoscopic titanium clips and MR localization were significantly smaller than that measured by CT (GTV titanium clip < GTVCT, GTVMR < GTVCT, P < 0.001). The distance between the lower margin of the titanium clip and the anal margin (4.19 ± 1.647 cm) was not significantly different from MR (4.41 ± 1.624 cm; P  =  0.231). The distance from the inferior margin of the lesion to the anal margin was significantly greater in measurements from the endoscopic titanium clip and MR localization than CT localization (3.53 ± 1.394 cm; P < 0.001). None of the patients had adverse reactions, such as bleeding or perforation.

Conclusions

Tumors labeled with titanium clips through colonoscopy contribute to the precise delineation of the target area before radiotherapy for rectal cancer. This technique is shown to have value in clinical application.
Cationic amphipathic peptide analogs of cathelicidin LL‐37 as a probe in the development of antimicrobial/anticancer agents
Authors: Tzitzilis Athanasios , Boura‐Theodorou Anastasia , Michail Vassilios , Papadopoulos Stylianos , Krikorian Dimitrios , Lekka Marilena E. , Koukkou Anna‐Irini , Sakarellos‐Daitsiotis Maria , Panou‐Pomonis Eugenia
Published: June 2020

Cathelicidin LL‐37 belongs to the class of human defense peptides and is overexpressed in many cancers. Segments of LL‐37 derived through biochemical processes have a wide range of activities. In this study, novel analogs of the 13‐amino acid cathelicidin 17‐29 amide segment F17KRIV21QR23IK25DF27LR‐NH2 were prepared and examined for their antimicrobial and hemolytic activities, as well as for their cytotoxicity on cancer bronchial epithelial cells. Selected substitutions were performed on residues R23 and K25 in the hydrophilic side, V21and F27 in the hydrophobic side of the interphase, and F17 that interacts with cell membranes. Specific motifs IIKK and LLKKL with anticancer and antimicrobial activities isolated from animals were also inserted into the 17‐29 fragment to investigate how they affect activity. Substitution of the amino‐terminal positive charge by acetylation and replacement of lysine by the aliphatic leucine in the peptide analog Ac‐FKRIVQRIL25DFLR‐NH2 resulted in significant cytotoxicity against A549 cancer cells with an IC50 value 3.90 μg/mL, with no cytotoxicity to human erythrocytes. The peptide Ac‐FKRIVQI23IKK26FLR‐NH2, which incorporates the IIKK motif and the peptides FKRIVQL23L24KK26L27LR‐NH2 and Ac‐FKRIVQL23L24KK26L27LR‐NH2, which incorporate the LLKKL motif, displayed potent antimicrobial activity against gram‐negative bacteria (MIC 3–7.5 μg/mL) and substantial cytotoxicity against bronchial epithelial cancer cells, (IC50 12.9–9.8 μg/mL), with no cytotoxic activity for human erythrocytes. The helical conformation of the synthetic peptides was confirmed by circular dichroism. Our study shows that appropriate substitutions, mainly in positions of the interphase, as well as the insertion of the motifs IIKK and LLKKL in the cathelicidin 17‐29 segment, may lead to the preparation of effective biological compounds.
Observer‐based decentralized adaptive neural control for uncertain interconnected systems with input quantization and time‐varying output constraints
Authors: Zhang Tianping , Wang Min , Xia Meizhen , Yang Yuequan
Published: June 2020

In this article, observer‐based decentralized adaptive neural control is proposed for uncertain interconnected nonlinear systems with input quantization and time‐varying output restrictions. Decentralized hysteresis quantizer is employed to handle input signal. The unmeasured states are estimated by designing K‐filters. A Lyapunov description is used to dispose of state unmodeled dynamics. The constrained interconnected nonlinear systems are transformed into novel interconnected nonlinear systems without output constraints by constructing invertible nonlinear mappings. Dynamic surface control technique and a hyperbolic tangent function are adopted to design decentralized controller, which has a simpler structure. Stability analysis indicates that all the signals in the closed‐loop system are semiglobally uniformly ultimately bounded and system outputs satisfy the constraints. Two numerical examples are used to verify the effectiveness of the theoretical findings.
Deep Koopman model predictive control for enhancing transient stability in power grids
Authors: Ping Zuowei , Yin Zhun , Li Xiuting , Liu Yefeng , Yang Tao
Published: June 2020

In this article, we propose a deep Koopman model predictive control (MPC) strategy to improve the transient stability of power grids in a fully data‐driven manner. Due to the high‐dimensionality and the nonlinearity of the transient process, we use the Koopman operator to map the original nonlinear dynamics into an infinite dimensional linear system. To facilitate the control design, we first utilize the deep neural network method to efficiently train observable functions to approximate the Koopman operator so that the obtained dynamics in the high dimensional space is a linear system. We then propose an MPC strategy for the obtained high dimensional linear system. The proposed control strategy utilizes energy storage units, which inject or absorb real power at the synchronous generator buses to enhance the transient stability. Simulation studies implemented on the IEEE 9‐bus 3‐machine test system and the IEEE 39‐bus 10‐machine test system illustrate the performance of the proposed deep Koopman MPC strategy. The results demonstrate that the proposed control strategy effectively enhances the transient stability of the system even in the presence of severe faults.
A system thinking approach for harmonizing smart and sustainable city initiatives with United Nations sustainable development goals
Authors: Kutty Adeeb A. , Abdella Galal M. , Kucukvar Murat , Onat Nuri C. , Bulu Melih
Published: June 2020

Technology has indispensably been a part of the city evolution throughout history. In recent years, there has been a shift in the pattern of development in smart cities, where smart cities attempt to embrace practices of sustainability using Information and Communication Technologies and other smart solutions. Past studies reveal that these smart cities have failed in successfully incorporating sustainable development goals into their smart strategies, where they tend to focus more on achieving smartness goals rather than sustainability goals and targets. This paper presents a multi‐faceted interrogative study on several ongoing smart city initiatives around the globe that supports United Nations Urban Sustainability Agenda. This paper aims to focus on harmonizing smart and sustainable city initiatives with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals using a systems thinking approach. The study develops conceptual models that support the city transition into being a sustainable smart city. These conceptual models were designed based on the fundamentals of system thinking for a system of several elements under the key catalyzers “Policy and Governance,” “Research & Development,” and “Partnership.” The causalities and interrelationships among elements in developed conceptual models justify the dynamicity and the impact of these elements within a system. The outcome of this research paper would support industry experts, policymakers, and city planners to adopt robust policy interventions and best practices for developing strategies that support the transition of smart cities to the futuristic label of sustainable cities.
Challenges for sustainable smart city development: A conceptual framework
Authors: Khan Huma H. , Malik Muhammad N. , Zafar Raheel , Goni Feybi A. , Chofreh Abdoulmohammad G. , Klemeš Jiří J. , Alotaibi Youseef
Published: June 2020

Sustainable smart city development experience various challenges, such as legislation and policies, funding, infrastructure, and technological aspects. Numerous studies have highlighted the importance of sustainability concepts in smart cities' development. However, there is scarce research focusing on the challenges faced for the development of sustainable smart cities. This study aimed to develop a conceptual framework that provides critical challenges faced by private and government organisations, and the respective solutions of the challenges for the development of sustainable smart cities. Pakistan has been chosen as a case study that yields a total of 17 respondents from the executive, managerial, and operational levels of private enterprises and government organisations involved in smart city development. This research is a preliminary step towards providing insights and significance of infusing sustainability in the development of smart cities. The proposed conceptual framework can act as a practise guideline for practitioners to prepare themselves for sustainable smart city development.
Tunable Photonic Microspheres of Comb‐Like Supramolecules
Authors: Yang Yi , Kang Tae‐Hui , Wang Ke , Ren Min , Chen Senbin , Xiong Bijin , Xu Jiangping , Zhang Lianbin , Yi Gi‐Ra , Zhu Jintao
Published: June 2020

Photonic crystals (PCs) are ideal candidates for reflective color pigments with high color purity and brightness due to tunable optical stop band. Herein, the generation of PC microspheres through 3D confined supramolecular assembly of block copolymers (polystyrene‐block‐poly(2‐vinylpyridine), PS‐b‐P2VP) and small molecules (3‐n‐pentadecylphenol, PDP) in emulsion droplets is demonstrated. The intrinsic structural colors of the PC microspheres are effectively regulated by tuning hydrogen‐bonding interaction between P2VP blocks and PDP, where reflected color can be readily tuned across the whole visible spectrum range. Also, the effects of both PDP and homopolymer (hPS) on periodic structure and optical properties of the microspheres are investigated. Moreover, the spectral results of finite element method (FEM) simulation agree well with the variation of structural colors by tuning the periodicity in PC microspheres. The supramolecular microspheres with tunable intrinsic structural color can be potentially useful in the various practical applications including display, anti‐counterfeit printing and painting.
Ultrasmall Particle Sizes of Walnut‐Like Mesoporous Silica Nanospheres with Unique Large Pores and Tunable Acidity for Hydrogenating Reaction
Authors: Hu Di , Li Huiping , Mei Jinlin , Liu Cong , Meng Qian , Xiao Chengkun , Wang Gang , Shi Yu , Duan Aijun
Published: June 2020

The large particle sizes, inert frameworks, and small pore sizes of mesoporous silica nanoparticles greatly restrict their application in the acidic catalysis. The research reports a simple and versatile approach to synthesize walnut‐like mesoporous silica nanospheres (WMSNs) with large tunable pores and small particle sizes by assembling with Beta seeds. The as‐synthesized Beta‐WMSNs composite materials possess ultrasmall particulate sizes (70 nm), large radial mesopores (≈30 nm), and excellent acidities (221.6 mmol g−1). Ni2P active phase is supported on the surface of Beta‐WMSNs composite materials, and it is found that the obtained composite spherical materials can reduce the Ni2P particle sizes from 8.4 to 4.8 nm with the increasing amount of Beta seeds, which can provide high accessibilities of reactants to the active sites. Furthermore, the unique large pores and ultrasmall particle sizes of Beta‐WMSNs samples facilitate the reduction of the diffusion resistance of reactants due to the short transporting length, thus the corresponding Ni2P/Beta‐WMSNs composite catalysts show the excellent hydrogenating activity compared to the pure Ni2P/WMSNs catalyst.
Vertical Flow Assay for Inflammatory Biomarkers Based on Nanofluidic Channel Array and SERS Nanotags
Authors: Chen Ruipeng , Du Xin , Cui Yujun , Zhang Xieyuan , Ge Qinyu , Dong Jian , Zhao Xiangwei
Published: June 2020

There is a great demand for the development of detection assays for inflammation infection diagnosis with high throughput and ultrasensitivity. Herein, a vertical flow assay system with functionalized nanoporous anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) as sensing membrane, and encoded core–shell surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) nanotags as labels for multiple inflammatory biomarkers detection is presented. A 2 × 2 test array on the porous AAO is developed and modified with multiple capture antibodies to capture inflammatory biomarkers from samples. Due to the high surface area to volume ratio of the AAO membrane, and its influence on plasmonic coupling, the electromagnetic field of the encoded core–shell SERS nanotags is enhanced. Detection limits of 53.4, 4.72, 48.3, and 7.53 fg mL−1 are realized for C reactive protein, interleukin‐6, serum amyloid A, and procalcitonin, respectively, with a linear dynamic range spanning at least five orders of magnitude. In addition, the proposed method also shows acceptable accuracy and repeatability for the detection of clinical samples. Therefore, this approach is expected to be a powerful point of care testing tool for disease diagnosis in facility limited areas.
Vulnerability assessment of a high‐rise building subjected to mainshock–aftershock sequences
Authors: Wang Xinyue , Wen Weiping , Zhai Changhai
Published: June 2020

Strong aftershocks have the potential to further aggravate the damage state of structures, and much less attention has been given to the seismic vulnerability of high‐rise buildings than that of low‐ to medium‐rise buildings. This study assesses the seismic vulnerability of a 32‐storey frame–core tube building by performing the incremental dynamic analysis on the material‐based three‐dimensional numerical model. A storey damage model based on the material damage is developed using the weighted average method. Eighteen recorded mainshock–aftershock sequences, whose mainshock records match the target spectrum, are selected. The results indicate that the developed stroey damage model can effectively reflect the additional damage induced by aftershocks. Strong aftershocks have high potential to change the location of weak storeys. Notably, shifts of weak storeys are observed in more than 30% of aftershocks with relative spectral acceleration of 0.8. As the mainshock‐induced damage state becomes more severe, the mainshock‐damaged building becomes increasingly fragile to the aftershock excitation and more sensitive to aftershock intensities. The probability of exceeding severe damage state increases from 35.3% to 62.1% due to the effects of strong aftershocks. The results in this study can provide supports to the seismic resilience assessment of this high‐rise building.
Effects of water pollution on some physiological parameters and phytoremediation performance of watercress (Nasturtium officinale)
Authors: Amiri Sharareh , Nafez Amir Hossein , Amiri Nasim
Published: June 2020

Phytoremediation is a sustainable, natural, and eco‐friendly approach, which is generally applied in environmental decontamination. The aim of this study was the assessment of phytoremediation performance of watercress (Nasturtium officinale) under different levels of water pollution. The shrubs of watercress were collected from the local springs adjacent to the Qarah‐Sou river in Iran. In order to build an artificial culture similar to natural conditions, the water samples collected from different river sections and the harvested plants were added to the hydroponic culture. The variables of interest were organic matter and nutrients (nitrogen and phosphorous) in river water. The physiological parameters of plant were chlorophylls a and b, proline, and carbohydrates. The results of experiments at the end of plant growth showed that there was a significant difference between initial and final water samples, and consequently watercress has high potential to remove nutrients from the polluted water. As a result of the growth of watercress in the most polluted section of river, organic matter and nutrients decreased and the nitrate concentration increased by 16.6% (due to the nitrification process). Moreover, the statistical analysis indicated that all physiological parameters are influenced by water pollution during the plant growth. The results revealed the watercress's ability to grow in different environmental conditions and approved its potential for natural wastewater purification. Therefore, we hope that this plant can be used as a new option for municipal and industrial wastewater phytoremediation.
Threats to aquatic taxa in an arid landscape: Knowledge gaps and areas of understanding for amphibians of the American Southwest
Authors: Mims Meryl C. , Moore Chloe E. , Shadle Elizabeth J.
Published: June 2020

The American Southwest is a dryland region with variable, seasonal precipitation, and a wide range of freshwater habitats. Amphibians are among the diverse freshwater taxa that rely on aquatic habitats of the southwest, yet the state‐of‐the‐science regarding vulnerability of the region’s amphibians to threats recognized globally is unclear. To address this knowledge gap, we reviewed 81 publications and 341 species:threat relationships to assess coverage in the peer‐reviewed literature of potential threats to 35 amphibians native to the region. We classified threats into three major categories: climate change, biological, and land use. Using a new trait database for anurans (frogs and toads) of the United States, we evaluated these threats in the context of life history diversity of the region's anurans. We found high coverage for hydrological alteration and introduced species as well as changes to community dynamics, land use, and precipitation. Other potential threats—particularly those linked to climate change such as changes in seasonality and fire—had comparatively low coverage. Coverage varied widely among species, with the number of reported species:threat relationships ranging from 37 (the lowland leopard frog, Lithobates yavapaiensis) to no coverage for some species—including some of conservation concern (e.g., Sacramento Mountains salamander, Aneides hardii). Our findings support leveraging available information to test hypothesized linkages between amphibian life histories and risk and response to threats; using high coverage species and threats to inform simulations and experiments exploring species:threat relationships and efficacy of management strategies; and addressing knowledge gaps for species and threats with no proxies through on‐the‐ground natural history efforts.

This article is categorized under:

Water and Life > Stresses and Pressures on Ecosystems > Conservation, Management, and Awareness

Science of Water > Water and Environmental Change
Sediment dynamics and implications for management: State of the science from long‐term research in the Chesapeake Bay watershed, USA
Authors: Noe Gregory B. , Cashman Matthew J. , Skalak Katie , Gellis Allen , Hopkins Kristina G. , Moyer Doug , Webber James , Benthem Adam , Maloney Kelly , Brakebill John , Sekellick Andrew , Langland Mike , Zhang Qian , Shenk Gary , Keisman Jeni , Hupp Cliff
Published: June 2020

This review aims to synthesize the current knowledge of sediment dynamics using insights from long‐term research conducted in the watershed draining to the Chesapeake Bay, the largest estuary in the U.S., to inform management actions to restore the estuary and its watershed. The sediment dynamics of the Chesapeake are typical of many impaired watersheds and estuaries around the world, and this synthesis is intended to be relevant and transferable to other sediment‐impaired systems. The watershed's sediment sources, transport, delivery, and impacts are discussed with implications for effectively implementing best management practices (BMPs) to mitigate sediment issues. This synthesis revealed three key issues to consider when planning actions to reduce sediment loading: Scale, time, and land use. Geology and historical land use generated a template that current land use and climate, in addition to management, are acting upon to control sediment delivery. Important sediment sources in the Chesapeake include the Piedmont physiographic region, urban, and agricultural land use, and streambank erosion of headwater streams, whereas floodplain trapping is important along larger streams and rivers. Implementation of BMPs is widespread and is predicted to lead to decreased sediment loading; however, reworking of legacy sediment stored in stream valleys, with potentially long residence times in storage, can delay and complicate detection of the effects of BMPs on sediment loads. In conclusion, the improved understanding of sediment sources, storage areas, and transport lag times reviewed here can help target choices of BMP types and locations to better manage sediment problems—for both local streams and receiving waters.

This article is categorized under:

Science of Water > Water Quality

Water and Life > Stresses and Pressures on Ecosystems

Water and Life > Conservation, Management, and Awareness
How to finance energy renovation of residential buildings: Review of current and emerging financing instruments in the EU
Authors: Bertoldi Paolo , Economidou Marina , Palermo Valentina , Boza‐Kiss Benigna , Todeschi Valeria
Published: June 2020

The Paris Agreement goals require net‐zero CO2 emissions by mid‐century. The European Commission in its recent proposal for climate and energy strategy for 2050 indicated the need for more intensified actions to substantially improve the energy performances of buildings. With the rate of new construction in Europe, the challenge is to increase both the pace and depth of building energy renovations. Several barriers inhibit the wide uptake of comprehensive energy renovations, including the inability or inertia to finance upfront costs of energy renovations. Despite various policies implemented to address some of these barriers, current investments in buildings remain at suboptimal levels. The paper reviews current financing practices for energy renovations and investigates some innovative instruments with a special focus on their applicability to residential buildings. In addition to “traditional” financial schemes such as subsidies, tax incentives, and loans, the paper assesses innovative financing schemes: On property tax and on‐bill financing, energy efficiency mortgages, and energy efficiency feed‐in tariffs. The paper also investigates the concept of one‐stop shops for building renovations and crowdfunding. The paper offers an assessment of the characteristics, benefits, and challenges of each analyzed financing instrument and provides policy recommendations for their successful implementation. In general, as financing instruments involve different stakeholders and due to complex nature of the sector, there is no single solution to accelerate energy renovation investment in buildings. The emerging financial models offer the potential to address the long‐standing barriers to investment in energy efficiency.

This article is categorized under:

Energy Efficiency > Economics and Policy

Energy Efficiency > Climate and Environment

Energy and Climate > Economics and Policy
Hall‐effect Measurements and Transport Properties of Heterostructures in the Model System NiTe2‐Sn12Sb2Te15
Authors: Fraunhofer Christina , Schwarzmüller Stefan , Gardiner James L. , Snyder G. Jeffrey , Oeckler Oliver
Published: June 2020

In composite materials of NaCl‐type Sn12Sb2Te15 with x equivalents of CdI2‐type NiTe2 (x = 0.2; 1; 2), both phases are stable from room temperature up to 500 °C without a significant extent of mutual doping. The thermoelectric properties of this model system, complemented by Hall measurements, show clear trends with increasing x. Both electrical and thermal conductivities increase significantly whilst Seebeck coefficients decrease due to an increase in charge carrier concentrations. The overall Figure of merit zT is slightly impaired upon heterostructuring with NiTe2. However, the good reproducibility and cyclability of the measurements renders these composites an intriguing model system to qualitatively examine the applicability of a simple single parabolic band (SPB) model based on Hall‐effect data to rather metallic heterostructures. This model is best applicable to composites with lower fractions of NiTe2 and gives the direction for tuning the charge carrier concentrations toward the optimum upon heterostructuring. These findings are in accordance with B‐factor analysis and classical effective medium theory for spheroidal precipitates.
Remote Detection of Invasive Alien Species
Authors: Bolch Erik A. , Santos Maria J. , Ade Christiana , Khanna Shruti , Basinger Nicholas T. , Reader Martin O. , Hestir Erin L.
Published: June 2020

The spread of invasive alien species (IAS) is recognized as the most severe threat to biodiversity outside of climate change and anthropogenic habitat destruction. IAS negatively impact ecosystems, local economies, and residents. They are especially problematic because once established, they give rise to positive feedbacks, increasing the likelihood of further invasions and spread. The integration of remote sensing (RS) to the study of invasion, in addition to contributing to our understanding of invasion processes and impacts to biodiversity, has enabled managers to monitor invasions and predict the spread of IAS, thus supporting biodiversity conservation and management action. This chapter focuses on RS capabilities to detect and monitor invasive plant species across terrestrial, riparian, aquatic, and human-modified ecosystems. All of these environments have unique species assemblages and their own optimal methodology for effective detection and mapping, which we discuss in detail.