bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ARNT/HIF‐1β links high‐risk 1q21 gain and microenvironmental hypoxia to drug resistance and poor prognosis in multiple myeloma
Authors: Wu Chuan , Yang Ting , Liu Yingmin , Lu Yicheng , Yang Yanping , Liu Xiaobo , Liu Xuelian , Ye Long , Sun Yue , Wang Xue , Li Qingchao , Yang Peiyu , Yu Xiaoyuan , Gao Sujun , Kumar Shaji , Jin Fengyan , Dai Yun , Li Wei
Published: June 2018

1q21 gain is a common cytogenetic abnormality featuring high‐risk multiple myeloma (HRMM). However, the molecular mechanism underlying the adverse prognostic effect of 1q21 gain remains largely unclear. Here, we report that ARNT/HIF‐1β, a 1q21 gene, is highly expressed in HRMM and induced by microenvironmental hypoxia, which confers drug resistance and correlates with inferior outcome. Analysis of the gene expression profile database revealed that ARNT expression was upregulated in MM and increased with disease progression or in HRMM subtypes (particularly 1q21 gain), while correlated to shorter overall survival. In a cohort of 40 MM patients, qPCR further validated that ARNT expression was higher in MM patients than normal donors. MM cells carrying 1q21 gain or acquired drug resistance displayed a robust increase in HIF‐1β protein level. Hypoxia induced HIF‐1β expression via a NF‐κB‐dependent process. Notably, HIF‐1β overexpression impaired bortezomib sensitivity, whereas shRNA knockdown of ARNT reversed hypoxia‐mediated drug resistance. Together, these findings suggest that ARNT/HIF‐1β might represent a novel biomarker for risk stratification and prognosis of HRMM patients, as well as a potential therapeutic target for overcoming 1q21 gain‐ or microenvironment‐mediated and acquired drug resistance in MM.
Customer service: Time to look in the mirror
Authors: Miles David
Published: June 2018

Recently, the university where I am employed mandated that all staff employees have to attend a training session on customer service. Although I believe that I have good customer service skills, I also believed that maybe I could learn some new techniques or ideas that would help me better understand the students of today. I am never opposed to any training, and I went to this training with open eyes.
Perinatal findings in a patient with a novel large chromosome 19p deletion
Authors: Culjat Marko , Razak Jennifer , Saadeh‐Haddad Reem , Driggers Rita , Kamholz Karen , Timofeev Julia
Published: June 2018

Key Clinical Message

We describe the prenatal and postnatal course of an infant with a large 19p deletion. Cases such as ours will improve the knowledge of specific gene functions for every medical specialist. The goal is to allow for a more rapid diagnosis, accurate prognosis and to decrease the likelihood of complications.
Nitrogen and Phosphorus Dual‐doped Porous Carbon Nanosheets for Efficient Oxygen Reduction in Both Alkaline and Acidic Media
Authors: Li Rong , Li Huinan , Long Jilan , He Jing , Zhang Jimin , Zheng Hongying , Gou Xinglong
Published: June 2018

Development of efficient electrocatalysts with high catalytic performance and low cost for promoting oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in both alkaline and acidic media is highly desired yet a challenging. Here, graphene‐like nitrogen and phosphorus dual‐doped porous carbon nanosheets are prepared by calcinating a homogeneous mixture of glucose, melamine and phosphoric acid with montmorillonite as the nanoreactor. The as‐prepared N,P dual‐doped porous carbon nanosheets show satisfactory ORR catalytic performance in both alkaline and acidic media due to the synergistic effect of N, P dual‐doping, abundant micro‐/meso‐pores and large specific surface area (835.91 m2 g−1). Its catalytic activity in 0.1 M KOH outperforms the bench‐mark Pt/C catalyst with more positive half‐wave potential and larger diffusion current density; its catalytic activity in 0.1 M HClO4 is comparable to that of Pt/C. Furthermore, it exhibits excellent tolerance towards methanol crossover and long‐term stability, showing great promise as an alternative to Pt/C for application in fuel cells and metal‐air batteries.
Direct C—H Bond Activation of Benzoxazole and Benzothiazole with Aryl Bromides Catalyzed by Palladium(II)‐N‐heterocyclic Carbene Complexes
Authors: Kaloğlu Murat , Kaloğlur Nazan , Özdemir İsmail
Published: June 2018

Herein, we report that a series of novel palladium(II)‐NHC complexes (NHC=N‐heterocyclic carbene) were synthesized. The structures of all novel complexes were characterized by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, FT‐IR spectroscopy and elemental analysis techniques. These palladium(II)‐NHC complexes were tested as efficient catalysts in the direct C—H bond activation of benzoxazole and benzothiazole with aryl bromides in the presence of 1 mol% catalyst loading at 150 °C for 4 h. Under the given conditions, various aryl bromides were successfully applied as the arylating reagents to achieve the 2‐arylbenzoxazoles and 2‐arylbenzothiazoles in acceptable to high yields.
Structure‐Based Design of a Monosaccharide Ligand Targeting Galectin‐8
Authors: Bohari Mohammad H. , Yu Xing , Kishor Chandan , Patel Brijesh , Go Rob Marc , Eslampanah Seyedi Hadieh A. , Vinik Yaron , Grice I. Darren , Zick Yehiel , Blanchard Helen
Published: June 2018

Galectin‐8 is a β‐galactoside‐recognising protein that has a role in the regulation of bone remodelling and is an emerging new target for tackling diseases with associated bone loss. We have designed and synthesised methyl 3‐O‐[1‐carboxyethyl]‐β‐d‐galactopyranoside (compound 6) as a ligand to target the N‐terminal domain of galectin‐8 (galectin‐8N). Our design involved molecular dynamics (MD) simulations that predicted 6 to mimic the interactions made by the galactose ring as well as the carboxylic acid group of 3′‐O‐sialylated lactose (3′‐SiaLac), with galectin‐8N. Isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) determined that the binding affinity of galectin‐8N for 6 was 32.8 μm, whereas no significant affinity was detected for the C‐terminal domain of galectin‐8 (galectin‐8C). The crystal structure of the galectin‐8N–6 complex validated the predicted binding conformation and revealed the exact protein–ligand interactions that involve evolutionarily conserved amino acids of galectin and also those unique to galectin‐8N for recognition. Overall, we have initiated and demonstrated a rational ligand design campaign to develop a monosaccharide‐based scaffold as a binder of galectin‐8.
Tertiary‐Amine‐Based Inhibitors of the Astacin Protease Meprin α
Authors: Tan Kathrin , Jäger Christian , Schlenzig Dagmar , Schilling Stephan , Buchholz Mirko , Ramsbeck Daniel
Published: June 2018

Metalloproteinases of the astacin family are drawing ever increasing attention as potential drug targets. However, knowledge regarding inhibitors thereof is limited in most cases. Crucial for the development of metalloprotease inhibitors is high selectivity, to avoid side effects brought about by inhibition of off‐target proteases and interference with physiological pathways. In this study we aimed at the design of novel selective inhibitors for the astacin proteinase meprin α. Based on a recently identified tertiary amine scaffold, a series of compounds was synthesized and evaluated. The compounds exhibit reasonable inhibitory activity with high selectivity over other metalloproteases. The isoenzyme meprin β is only slightly inhibited. Hence, the present study revealed a novel class of selective meprin α inhibitors with improved selectivity over known compounds.
Improved correlation of urinary cytology specimens using The Paris System in biopsy‐proven upper tract urothelial carcinomas
Authors: McIntire Patrick J. , Snow Justin T. , Robinson Brian D. , Rao Rema A. , Goyal Abha , Heymann Jonas J. , Siddiqui Momin T.
Published: June 2018

BACKGROUND

Urine cytology specimens are essential for screening and monitoring high‐grade urothelial carcinomas. However, inconsistent reporting and equivocal diagnostic categories have remained a challenge. The Paris System for Reporting Urinary Cytology (TPS) was developed to provide clear cytomorphologic criteria for urine cytology specimens. Significant correlation between the surgical biopsy diagnosis (SD) and TPS diagnosis (PD) has been established in lower urothelial tract carcinomas, but to the authors' knowledge limited information is available regarding upper urinary tract carcinomas.

METHODS

A total of 56 cytology specimens from 35 patients within 90 days of an SD of upper urinary tract carcinoma were included. Cytology was re‐reviewed and assigned a PD. The original diagnosis (OD) and PD were compared with the corresponding SD to determine which correlated best.

RESULTS

The PD corresponded to the SD in 35 of 56 cases (63%), which was greater than that for the OD and SD, which were concordant in 19 of 56 cases (34%). Both the OD and PD were concordant in 18 of 56 cases (32%), and neither corresponded in 20 of 56 cases (36%). A total of 27 of 33 cases of high‐grade urothelial carcinoma/carcinoma in situ on SD (82%) were identified using the PD whereas only 15 cases (45%) were identified with the OD. The number of “atypical” diagnoses in the OD was reduced from 16 of 56 cases (29%) to 7 of 56 cases (13%) using the PD. Of the 14 of 56 “negative” OD (25%), only 4 remained after implementation of the PD. A diagnosis of low‐grade urothelial neoplasm was established in 6 of 20 cases (30%) with the PD compared with 3 of 20 cases with the OD (15%).

CONCLUSIONS

The authors found that reclassification with TPS improved correlation with the SD compared with previous methodologies. Specifically, TPS increased the number of high‐grade urothelial carcinoma diagnoses and decreased the number of equivocal or “atypical” diagnoses. Cancer Cytopathol 2018. © 2018 American Cancer Society.
A Dual‐Functional Catalyst for Cascade Meerwein–Pondorf–Verley Reduction and Dehydration of 4′‐Methoxypropiophenone to Anethole
Authors: Zhang Hongwei , Lim Candy Li‐Fen , Zaki Muhammad , Jaenicke Stephan , Chuah Gaik Khuan
Published: June 2018

Anethole is an ingredient in many flavours, fragrances and pharmaceutical formulations. To reduce the dependence of its supply on natural oils, a green route for anethole synthesis was designed on the basis of Meerwein–Pondorf–Verley (MPV) reduction and dehydration of 4′‐methoxypropiophenone. The one‐pot cascade reactions were heterogeneously catalysed by dual‐functional Zr‐MSU‐3, a predominantly Lewis‐acidic catalyst with a Si/Zr ratio of 10 and pores with sizes in the range of 3.2–4.2 nm. The use of 2‐pentanol as solvent and hydrogen donor for the MPV reduction was advantageous, as its high boiling point enhances the rate of the reactions, especially the dehydration of the MPV product, 1‐(4‐methoxyphenyl)‐propan‐1‐ol. This dispenses with the need for a strong acid catalyst that could result in by‐products of acid‐catalysed reactions. Anethole yields of 91 % with a trans/cis isomer ratio of about 92:8, similar to that of natural anethole, were obtained. In comparison, microporous Zr‐beta (Si/Zr 12.5) gave lower activity owing to pore‐size constraints. Hence, through design of the reactions and catalyst, 4′‐methoxypropiophenone can be efficiently converted to anethole in a sustainable and green manner.
Error rate and outage of dual‐hop DF relay system with selection combining over Rice fading
Authors: Dixit Dharmendra , Sahu P. R.
Published: June 2018

Performance of dual‐hop decode‐and‐forward relay system with selection‐combining receiver is analyzed over Rice fading channels. The following closed‐form expressions of performance metrics are derived: moment generating function for selection‐combining receiver output signal‐to‐noise ratio, exact average bit error rate of noncoherent modulations, approximate average symbol error rate for coherent modulations, and outage probability. We also obtain simple asymptotic expressions for moment generating function, exact average bit error rate, average symbol error rate, and outage probability, which are useful to characterize the diversity order and the coding gain. The optimal power allocation analysis suggests that the optimal power allocation factor is independent of total signal‐to‐noise ratio and source‐to‐destination link fading parameters. The accuracy of the obtained analytical expressions are supported by computer simulation results.
Towards energy efficiency in virtual topology design of elastic optical networks
Authors: Kyriakopoulos Constantine A. , Papadimitriou Georgios I. , Nicopolitidis Petros
Published: June 2018

Elastic optical networks offer a reliable platform for achieving energy efficiency by supporting extensive optical grooming of variable‐rate data traffic along with the traditional electrical data aggregation methods. The procedure of routing and spectrum allocation in a topology of nodes has explicit effect to the amount of consumed power. A new energy‐efficient method for designing the virtual topology in IP‐over‐elastic networks is introduced and evaluated. It is concluded that it consumes less power under different elastic transponder types, it designs the virtual topology using fewer transponders, and finally, there is a slight increase in the number of end‐to‐end lightpath hops. The proposed method is characterized by high performance and low lightpath establishment complexity. Therefore, it is suitable for a broad range of network configurations and transponder types.
Linking autonomic physiology and emotion regulation in preschoolers: The role of reactivity and recovery
Authors: Kahle Sarah , Miller Jonas G. , Helm Jonathan L. , Hastings Paul D.
Published: June 2018

Physiological recovery from negative emotions may be important for effective self‐regulation, but little is known about recovery processes in children. The current study investigated links between autonomic physiology, anger expressions, and emotion regulation in a sample of eighty‐three 3.5‐year‐olds. Respiratory sinus arrhythmia and pre‐ejection period were measured during an anger induction task as parasympathetic and sympathetic indices, respectively. We examined whether preschoolers’ anger expressions and emotion regulation behaviors were associated with individual differences in physiology. Autonomic changes were more strongly linked with emotion regulation than with expressed anger. Verbalized regulatory strategies were linked with greater sympathetic reactivity and also with greater recovery. In contrast, attention diversion was associated with blunted patterns of sympathetic reactivity followed by increased sympathetic arousal in the recovery phase. Disengaging from an emotional challenge may be linked with reduced physiological arousal in the short term, this behavior but also appears to have delayed consequences for physiological recovery.
Leverage data, implement initiatives to boost student retention
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: June 2018

ORLANDO — As registrar, you have access to copious amounts of data about student success and retention. Why not put that data to use to improve outcomes for your institution's students?
President shares 5 building blocks for success
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: June 2018

CLEARWATER, FLORIDA — Colleges and universities face tenuous times full of daunting challenges, according to E. Gordon Gee, J.D., Ed.D. But in this atmosphere of havoc, higher ed officials must embrace the opportunity to establish building blocks for a havoc‐resistant future for higher education, he said at Stetson University's National Conference on Law and Higher Education, when he accepted the William A. Kaplin Award for Excellence in Higher Education Law & Policy Scholarship.
Consider nontraditional learners in totality to draw students with grit
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: June 2018

When University of Washington officials changed their admissions review process from an indexed one to a more holistic review in 2005, it changed the landscape of the institution. The admissions index, which until 2005 was mandated for use in Washington state, used a student's high school GPA through junior year and standardized test scores to provide applicants with an index number. Institutions would post the threshold at which they accepted applicants.
Analyzing enhanced real‐time uplink scheduling algorithm in 3GPP LTE‐advanced networks using multimedia systems
Authors: Deebak B. D. , Ever Enver , Al‐Turjman Fadi
Published: June 2018

Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) standardizes the Long‐Term Evolution (LTE) to improve the quality of service in modern communication systems using 3GPP LTE‐advanced (LTE‐A) networks. As this technology is converging with modern devices, efficient resource allocation schemes are essential for minimization of the communication delay for the sensitive real‐time devices. To achieve the demands of latest technologies, this paper proposes two novel mechanisms, enhanced real‐time polling system with continuous time–batch Markovian arrival process and proactive resource allocation framework. The objective of the former mechanism is to improvise the service connectivity between the multimedia devices in LTE‐A networks and the latter is to exploit the transmission bits in each user's buffer in addition to the state information of wireless channel. The proposed mechanisms consider the constraints enforced by 3GPP standard in terms of radio resource blocks allocation for LTE‐A networks. In addition, the proposed mechanisms use LTE‐A networks to investigate the Voice over LTE traffic in order to analyze various quality‐of‐service measures, namely, sum throughput, session setup delay, packet delivery ratio, resource utilization ratio, and throughput improvement via real‐time multimedia client‐server systems. The probing results show that the proposed algorithm is superior in comparison to other typical services of IEEE 802.16d/e–based systems as well as LTE‐A system with 7 orthogonal frequency‐division multiplexing symbols over a duration slot 0.5 ms. While the slotted duration is set to 5 ms, the proposed framework effectively utilizes the resource allocation cycle to support the uplink scheduling to outperform at least 38% better throughput performance in comparison with existing mechanisms.
The Effects of Age and Dose on Gene Expression and Segmental Bone Defect Repair After BMP‐2 Delivery
Authors: Cheng Albert , Krishnan Laxminarayanan , Tran Lisa , Stevens Hazel Y , Xia Boao , Lee Nari , Williams Joseph K , Gibson Greg , Guldberg Robert E
Published: June 2018

Age is a well‐known influential factor in bone healing, with younger patients generally healing bone fractures more rapidly and suffering fewer complications compared with older patients. Yet the impact age has on the response to current bone healing treatments, such as delivery of bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP‐2), remains poorly characterized. It remains unclear how or if therapeutic dosing of BMP‐2 should be modified to account for age‐related differences in order to minimize potential adverse effects and consequently improve patient bone‐healing outcomes. For this study, we sought to address this issue by using a preclinical critically sized segmental bone defect model in rats to investigate age‐related differences in bone repair after delivery of BMP‐2 in a collagen sponge, the current clinical standard. Femoral defects were created in young (7‐week‐old) and adult (8‐month‐old) rats, and healing was assessed using gene expression analyses, longitudinal radiography, ex vivo micro‐computed tomography (µCT), as well as torsional testing. We found that young rats demonstrated elevated expression of genes related to osteogenesis, chondrogenesis, and matrix remodeling at the early 1‐week time point compared with adult rats. These early gene expression differences may have impacted long‐term healing as the regenerated bones of young rats exhibited higher bone mineral densities compared with those of adult rats after 12 weeks. Furthermore, the young rats demonstrated significantly more bone formation and increased mechanical strength when BMP‐2 dose was increased from 1 µg to 10 µg, a finding not observed in adult rats. Overall, these results indicate there are age‐related differences in BMP‐2‐mediated bone regeneration, including relative dose sensitivity, suggesting that age is an important consideration when implementing a BMP‐2 treatment strategy. © 2018 The AuthorsJBMR Pluspublished by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Development and efficacy of a clinician‐targeted refresher course for treating nonpneumonia respiratory tract infections
Authors: Yamamoto Shungo , Gu Yoshiaki , Fujitomo Yumiko , Kanai Nobuyuki , Yamahata Yoshihiro , Saito Hiroyuki , Hashimoto Tadayuki , Ohmagari Norio
Published: June 2018

Background

In 2017, the Japanese government published an evidence‐based manual describing the appropriate use of antibiotics in outpatient settings to tackle the problem of antimicrobial resistance. To fill the evidence‐practice gap, we developed a clinician‐targeted course aimed at improving clinician skills in the daily clinical practice of treating acute respiratory tract infections (RTIs) based on the manual. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of the course.

Methods

This course consisted of lectures using illness scripts and checklists, as well as interactive communication skills training using role‐playing. We performed a vignette‐based evaluation of the changes in the knowledge and attitudes of the course participants toward prescribing antibiotics for nonpneumonia RTIs, using pre‐ and postcourse questionnaires. The questionnaires also included course feedback via the use of a 5‐point Likert scale.

Results

Thirty‐eight clinicians were included in the analyses, and 90% of these participants had graduated ≥20 years ago. We found statistically significant reductions in the intention to prescribe antibiotics for four of the six nonpneumonia RTI vignettes: acute bronchitis (−47.2%; 95% confidence interval [CI] −66.3 to −28.1%), common cold (−16.2%; 95% CI −30.8 to −1.6%), acute pharyngitis (−27.0%; 95% CI −49.0 to −5.0%), and acute rhinosinusitis (−33.3%; 95% CI −53.3 to −13.3%). The course seemed to be satisfactory for experienced doctors who were the relevant target population of such a workshop.

Conclusions

The refresher course was helpful for reducing the participants’ intensions to prescribe antibiotics for nonpneumonia RTIs.
Design, Synthesis, and In Vitro Anti‐mycobacterial Activities of Propylene‐Tethered Gatifloxacin‐Isatin Hybrids
Authors: Wang Hao‐Di , Fan Yi‐Lei , Zhou Jing , Xu Yan , Guan Jianguo
Published: June 2018

A series of propylene‐tethered mono‐/bis‐isatin‐gatifloxacin hybrids 3a–f and 4a–f were designed, synthesized, and evaluated for their in vitro anti‐mycobacterial activities against Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) H37Rv and multidrug‐resistant tuberculosis (MDR‐TB) as well as cytotoxicity against VERO cell line. The results indicated that all hybrids exhibited promising anti‐mycobacterial activities against MTB H37Rv and MDR‐TB with MIC ranging from 0.25 to 16 μg/mL. In particular, the mono‐isatin‐gatifloxacin hybrid 3e (MIC: 0.25 and 0.25 μg/mL) was found to be most active against MTB H37Rv and MDR‐TB strains, which was twofold more active than the parent gatifloxacin (MIC: 0.5 μg/mL) and comparable with rifampicin (RIF) (MIC: 0.25 μg/mL) against MTB H37Rv, and 4‐ > 512 times more potent than the three references gatifloxacin (MIC: 1.0 μg/mL), RIF (MIC: 64 μg/mL), and isoniazid (>128 μg/mL) against MDR‐TB, could act as a starting point for further optimization.
On‐surface Fenton and Fenton‐like reactions appraised by paper spray ionization mass spectrometry
Authors: Resende S.F. , Oliveira B.S. , Augusti R.
Published: June 2018

On‐surface degradation of sildenafil (an adequate substrate as it contains assorted functional groups in its structure) promoted by the Fenton (Fe2+/H2O2) and Fenton‐like (Mn+/H2O2; Mn+ = Fe3+, Co2+, Cu2+, Mn2+) systems was investigated by using paper spray ionization mass spectrometry (PS‐MS). The performance of each system was compared by measuring the ratio between the relative intensities of the ions of m/z 475 (protonated sildenafil) and m/z 235 (protonated lidocaine, used as a convenient internal standard and added to the paper just before the PS‐MS analyzes). The results indicated the following order in the rates of such reactions: Fe2+/H2O2 ≫ H2O2 ≫ Cu2+/H2O2 > Mn+/H2O2 (Mn+ = Fe3+, Co2+, Mn2+) ~ Mn+ (Mn+ = Fe2+, Fe3+, Co2+, Cu2+, Mn2). The superior capability of Fe2+/H2O2 in causing the degradation of sildenafil indicates that Fe2+ efficiently decomposes H2O2 to yield hydroxyl radicals, quite reactive species that cause the substrate oxidation. The results also indicate that H2O2 can spontaneously decompose likely to yield hydroxyl radicals, although in a much smaller extension than the Fenton system. This effect, however, is strongly inhibited by the presence of the other cations, ie, Fe3+, Co2+, Cu2+, and Mn2+. A unique oxidation by‐product was detected in the reaction between Fe2+/H2O2 with sildenafil, and a possible structure for it was proposed based on the MS/MS data. The on‐surface reaction of other substrates (trimethoprim and tamoxifen) with the Fenton system was also investigated. In conclusion, PS‐MS shows to be a convenient platform to promptly monitor on‐surface oxidation reactions.
Peri‐implant health, peri‐implant mucositis, and peri‐implantitis: Case definitions and diagnostic considerations
Authors: Renvert Stefan , Persson G. Rutger , Pirih Flavia Q. , Camargo Paulo M.
Published: June 2018

The objective of this review is to identify case definitions and clinical criteria of peri‐implant healthy tissues, peri‐implant mucositis, and peri‐implantitis. The case definitions were constructed based on a review of the evidence applicable for diagnostic considerations. In summary, the diagnostic definition of peri‐implant health is based on the following criteria: 1) absence of peri‐implant signs of soft tissue inflammation (redness, swelling, profuse bleeding on probing), and 2) the absence of further additional bone loss following initial healing. The diagnostic definition of peri‐implant mucositis is based on following criteria: 1) presence of peri‐implant signs of inflammation (redness, swelling, line or drop of bleeding within 30 seconds following probing), combined with 2) no additional bone loss following initial healing. The clinical definition of peri‐implantitis is based on following criteria: 1) presence of peri‐implant signs of inflammation, 2) radiographic evidence of bone loss following initial healing, and 3) increasing probing depth as compared to probing depth values collected after placement of the prosthetic reconstruction. In the absence of previous radiographs, radiographic bone level ≥3 mm in combination with BOP and probing depths ≥6 mm is indicative of peri‐implantitis.
Land degradation changes in the Yellow River Delta and its response to the streamflow‐sediment fluxes since 1976
Authors: Gao Peng , Wang Yiming , Li Pengfei , Zhao Guangju , Sun Wenyi , Mu Xingmin
Published: June 2018

The Yellow River is globally renowned for its high sediment concentration, primarily because it flows over the Loess Plateau, which suffers from severe land degradation mainly in the soil erosion. Vast sediment flows from the Yellow River into the sea through the Yellow River Delta (YRD), largely shaping the YRD. On the basis of remote sensing images and historical hydrological measurements, we investigated the streamflow‐sediment flux from the Yellow River and the land area changes of YRD region from 1976 to 2016. The relationship between the streamflow‐sediment flux from the Yellow River and the land change rate at the YRD was examined. The changes in shape of different parts of the YRD and their influencing factors were also discussed. The results showed that there is a significant correlation between the land change rate at the Estuary region and streamflow‐sediment flux from the Yellow River. Because of ecological environment constructions on the Loess Plateau, the streamflow‐sediment flux, particularly the sediment flux, underwent a decreasing trend. Along with the collapse of sediment flux, the land area of the YRD and the Estuary region increased before 1998 and decreased afterwards. The solidification projects are of great significance to the protection of the Northern River Beach region, but the decreasing trend of the land degradation rate at the Estuary region is unlikely to change. Our results provided a useful reference for the protection of the YRD and prevention of land degradation in the Yellow River Basin.
Paddy periphyton: Potential roles for salt and nutrient management in degraded mudflats from coastal reclamation
Authors: Lu Haiying , Qi Weicong , Liu Jia , Bai Yanchao , Tang Boping , Shao Hongbo
Published: June 2018

Periphyton exists ubiquitously in paddy ecosystems of coastal mudflat area, playing significant roles in salt and nutrient cycling between the water and soil interface. However, the definition, composition, influenced factors, and potential function of paddy periphyton are still unclear. We attempt to define paddy periphyton as an integrated and independent microcosm, which is dominated by phototrophic communities, containing both biotic components, such as algal, fungal, bacterial, protozoan, and metazoan, and abiotic components, such as soil, extracellular polymeric substance, and detritus. They interact with each other such as predation and competition, co‐inhabiting in a common microhabitat. The development of paddy periphyton mainly includes three processes: growth stage, mature stage, and fading stage. Paddy periphyton has a significant influence on the salt migration in paddy ecosystem that was reclaimed from coastal mudflat by improving the soil structure, assimilating and adsorbing the salt like sodium chloride, and inhibiting the salt accumulation near the soil surface. As for nutrient management, the roles of paddy periphyton can be summarized as a slow‐released bio‐fertilizer, a nutrient‐removal agent, a nutrient mediator, and a nutrient indicator in mudflat‐reclaimed paddy ecosystem. All these imply that paddy periphyton may be a new and promising biotechnological tool for better salt and nutrient management in paddy ecosystems that degraded from mudflat land, which has a vast potential in the amelioration and fertility improvement of salt‐affected soils, as well as control of nonpoint agricultural pollution in coastal areas.
Measuring the impacts of anthropogenic activities on Inner Mongolian temperate grassland
Authors: Ren Hongrui , Zhou Guangsheng
Published: June 2018

Measuring the impacts of anthropogenic activities on grassland ecosystems is of great significance to establish effective grassland management policies. Due to the uncertainty and complexity of the anthropogenic activities, the impacts are difficult to quantify, especially at large spatial and long temporal scales. We used the Zhou Guangsheng model to simulate climate‐driven potential net primary productivity (NPPP) and MOD17A3 NPP data to acquire actual NPP (NPPA) influenced by both anthropogenic activities and climate change over the temperate grassland of Inner Mongolian from 2000 to 2014. We then simulated human‐induced NPP (NPPH), calculated as the difference between actual and potential NPP (NPPH = NPPA − NPPP), to determine anthropogenic effects on the temperate grassland. By comparing the NPPH and its time‐series linear slope from 2000 to 2014, we further proposed six types of anthropogenic impacts. Along the temperate grassland climate gradient, vegetation changed from meadow steppe in the east to typical steppe in the middle and desert steppe in the west, and NPPA and NPPP decreased. NPPH had no obvious spatial pattern. We observed positive effect (NPPH > 0) on only 4.2% of total grassland area. The area where the types of “positive effect (NPPH > 0) decrease – negative effect (NPPH < 0) increase” and “negative effect (NPPH < 0) increase” were observed in time‐series trends accounted for 68.8% of total grassland area. The grazing withdrawal and ecological compensation programs implemented around 2004 did not lead to a decline in the number of livestock and NPPH. Governments need to improve livestock number controls and strengthen grazing regulations.
Natural resource extraction and household welfare in rural Laos
Authors: Nguyen Trung Thanh , Do Truong Lam , Grote Ulrike
Published: June 2018

Degradation of natural resources is a threat to sustainable development in many developing countries. Solving this requires an understanding of the factors affecting the extraction of and the dependence on the resources as well as the impacts on rural welfare. In this study, we identify the factors affecting the extraction of and the dependence on forest and water resources and examine the impacts of the extraction on rural household welfare in Laos. We address our research questions with an econometric framework that models the extraction and its implications simultaneously. We use the data of 430 rural households from a survey undertaken in 2013 in 38 villages of Savannakhet Province. Our findings show that extracting forest and water resources is a shock‐coping strategy of rural households but contributes to reducing household income inequality. For extracting households, the extraction increases household income, consumption, and food security. However, for nonextracting households, although participating in the extraction would increase food security, it would reduce their income and consumption. We suggest that promoting rural education and off‐farm employment opportunities and enhancing investments in physical infrastructures would reduce the extraction of and the dependence on the resources of extractors and prevent nonextractors from being forced to extract the resources.
Transparent Dielectric Metasurfaces for Spatial Mode Multiplexing
Authors: Kruk Sergey , Ferreira Filipe , Mac Suibhne Naoise , Tsekrekos Christos , Kravchenko Ivan , Ellis Andrew , Neshev Dragomir , Turitsyn Sergey , Kivshar Yuri
Published: June 2018

Expanding the use of physical degrees of freedom to employ spatial multiplexing of data in optical communication is considered to be the most disruptive and effective solution for meeting the capacity demand of the growing information traffic. Development of space division–multiplexing methods stimulated research on spatial encoding, detection, and processing of data, attracting interest from various fields of science. Here a passive all‐dielectric metasurface with near‐unity transmission is demonstrated that engineers spatial mode profiles, potentially of an arbitrary complexity. The broadband response of the metasurface covers all S, C, and L bands of fiber communications. Unlike conventional phase plates, the metasurface allows for both phase and polarization conversion, providing full flexibility for the mode engineering. The dielectric metasurface is employed for mode multiplexing in a free‐space optical communication system with an extinction ratio in excess of 20 dB over the whole C‐band with negligible penalty even for 100 Gb s−1 data transmission. These results merge two seemingly different fields, optical communication and metamaterials, and they suggest a novel approach for an ultimate miniaturization of mode multiplexers and advanced LiFi technologies.
Impact of advanced detector technology and iterative reconstruction on low‐dose quantitative assessment of lung computed tomography density in a biological lung model
Authors: Hammond E. , Chan K. S. , Ames J. C. , Stoyles N. , Sloan C. M. , Guo J. , Newell J. D. , Hoffman E. A. , Sieren J. C.
Published: June 2018

Purpose

Quantitative computed tomography (QCT)‐derived measures of lung density are valued methods for objectively characterizing lung parenchymal and peripheral airways disease and are being used in a growing number of lung disease focused trials. Detector and reconstruction improvements in CT technology have allowed for significant radiation dose reduction in image acquisition with comparable qualitative image quality. We report the impact of detector type and reconstruction type on QCT lung density measures in relation to decreasing dose indices.

Methods

Two sets of studies were completed in an in vivo pig model with a SOMATOM Definition Flash CT system: (a) prior to system upgrade with conventional detectors (UFC) and filtered back projection (FBP), and (b) post system upgrade with integrated electronic detectors (STELLAR) and iterative reconstruction (SAFIRE). CT data were acquired across estimated CT volume dose indices (CTDIvol) ranging from 0.75 to 15 mGy at both inspiratory and expiratory breath holds. Semiautomated lung segmentations allowed calculation of histogram median, kurtosis, and 15th percentile. Percentage of voxels below −910 HU and −950 HU (inspiratory), and −856 HU (expiratory) were also examined. The changes in these QCT metrics from dose reduction (15 mGy down to 0.75 mGy) were calculated relative to paired reference values (15 mGy). Results were compared based on detector and reconstruction type.

Results

In this study, STELLAR detectors improved concordance with 15 mGy values down to 3 mGy for inspiratory scans and 6 mGy for expiratory scans. The addition of SAFIRE reconstruction in all acquired measurements resulted in minimal deviation from reference values at 0.75 mGy.

Conclusion

The use of STELLAR integrated electronic detectors and SAFIRE iterative reconstruction may allow for comparable lung density measures with CT dose indices down to 0.75 mGy.
Weighing up the benefits of antidepressant drugs
Authors: Titmarsh Steve
Published: June 2018

The systematic review and network meta‐analysis of the efficacy of 21 antidepressants by Andrea Cipriani and colleagues has been hailed as a major contribution to the body of evidence that supports the use of these drugs in managing major depressive disorder. This article summarises the review's findings and their implications for practice.
Diagnosis and management of polymyalgia rheumatica
Authors: Tracey Gerald
Published: June 2018

Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) can be a disabling condition, but the diagnosis is often delayed because many other conditions can mimic it. This article describes the recommended investigations and treatments for PMR, and discusses the GP's role in management.
Guselkumab for the treatment of plaque psoriasis
Authors: Chaplin Steve
Published: June 2018

Guselkumab (Tremfya) is a monoclonal antibody against interleukin‐23 for the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in adults who are candidates for systemic therapy. This article discusses its efficacy, side‐effects and place in therapy.
Vertical Graphene Tunneling Heterostructure with Ultrathin Ferroelectric BaTiO3 Film as a Tunnel Barrier
Authors: Chan Hung‐Lit , Yuan Shuoguo , Hao Jianhua
Published: June 2018

Ferroelectric tunnel junctions (FTJs) have attracted enormous interests as one of the promising candidates for next‐generation non‐volatile resistance memories. In this work, we report a novel FTJ employing both two‐dimensional material and semiconductor electrode, in the graphene/BaTiO3/Nb:SrTiO3 heterostructure, yielding an interesting tunneling electroresistance (TER) effect. We investigate the TER dependence on Nb doping concentrations from 0.1 to 1.0 wt% in the semiconductor electrode. In addition to modulating barrier height by ferroelectric polarization reversal, the ON/OFF resistance ratio can be tuned by adjusting Nb doping concentrations due to further modulation of barrier width. An optimized ON/OFF ratio above 103 of the device is observed when introducing 0.1 wt% Nb concentration at room temperature. Furthermore, good retention property and switching reproducibility can be achieved in the devices. The results provide a novel pathway to design the graphene‐based FTJ at the nanoscale, which is useful for developing non‐volatile memory devices with enhanced performance.
Probing of Free Charge Carriers in Nanostructured Silicon Layers by Attenuated Total Reflectance Technique
Authors: Rodichkina Sofia P. , Nychyporuk Tetyana , Pastushenko Anton , Timoshenko Victor Yu.
Published: June 2018

Infrared spectroscopy in attenuated total reflection (ATR) mode is used to evaluate the concentration of free charge carriers (electrons) in n‐type macroporous silicon (Si) layers formed by metal‐assisted chemical etching of crystalline silicon (c‐Si) followed by additional doping with phosphorus. The ATR spectra are fitted by considering an effective medium approximation and Drude model, which is modified to describe an additional scattering of the charge carriers on the surface of Si nanocrystals. The electron concentration is of the order of 1019 cm−3 and it is slightly dependent on the layer thickness, while the surface scattering of charge carriers increases with layer thickness. The obtained results are discussed in view of possible applications of the ATR method for an express diagnostics of doping efficiency of Si nano‐ and microstructures for photonic and thermoelectrical applications.
Controlling Molecular Weight to Achieve High‐Efficient Polymer Solar Cells With Unprecedented Fill Factor of 79% Based on Non‐Fullerene Small Molecule Acceptor
Authors: Xiong Wentao , Qi Feng , Liu Tao , Huo Lijun , Xue Xiaonan , Bi Zhaozhao , Zhang Yu , Ma Wei , Wan Meixiu , Liu Juan , Sun Yanming
Published: June 2018

In the fullerene based system, molecular weight (MW) of polymeric donor plays a critical role in determining the performance of polymer solar cells (PSCs) and higher MW often leads to better photovoltaic performance due to the enhanced carrier mobility and better morphology. However, for non‐fullerene small molecule acceptors (SMAs) based PSCs, polymeric MW effect research is often ignored. Thus, in our research, MW impact of a series of wide band‐gap polymers of PBT1‐C with different number average molecular weights (Mn) on the optical, electrical, morphological, and photovoltaic properties of PSCs has been systematically studied based on non‐fullerene SMAs. It is found that the variety of MW of PBT1‐C results in dramatic effects on the molecular aggregations of the polymers and their blend morphology of SMA based PSCs. In particular, PBT1‐C‐MW with a medium MW gives the best power conversion efficiency of up to 12.8% and unprecedented fill factor of 79%, when blended with ITCPTC as acceptor due to the favorable morphology, the pronounced increase in the orientational coherence lengths and the highest domain purity. To the best of our knowledge, the fill factor of 79% is the highest value among non‐fullerene SMAs based PSCs. This study reveals that even for a given SMA and polymer donor, rationally tailoring the MW of the polymer donor is a useful strategy for further improving their photovoltaic performance.
Why Wait? The Importance of Wait Time in Developing Young Students’ Language and Vocabulary Skills
Authors: Wasik Barbara A. , Hindman Annemarie H.
Published: June 2018

Developing young students’ language and vocabulary is critical in laying the foundation for learning to read. Asking open‐ended questions, which require more than a one‐word response, is an effective strategy that teachers can use to elicit students’ comments and engage students in extended conversations. However, to facilitate students’ responses, teachers need to not only ask questions but also, equally importantly, provide wait time for students to respond. Students need to think about the question, think about their answer, and think about and select the words that they would like to use to communicate their answer. Typically, this takes longer than the second or less that students are given to respond to a question. Although limited, research on wait time has suggested that students provide more high‐quality responses when they are given wait time. Suggestions for implementing wait time in early childhood classrooms are discussed.
Cover Image, Volume 5, Issue 4
Authors: Uijlenhoet Remko , Overeem Aart , Leijnse Hidde
Published: June 2018

The cover image, by Remko Uijlenhoet et al, is based on Primer Opportunistic remote sensing of rainfall using microwave links from cellular communication networks, DOI: 10.1002/wat2.1289. Image courtesy of identim/Shutterstock.

image
Modeling the climate and carbon systems to estimate the social cost of carbon
Authors: Thompson Tammy M.
Published: June 2018

This study compares 10 models of the global carbon and climate systems, that represent model sophistication ranging from very simple parameterizations to Earth System Models of Intermediate complexity (EMICS): DICE, PAGE, FUND, FAIR, Hector, OSCAR, ACC2, MAGICC, MESM, and UVic. The focus of this analysis is on how these models meet scientific design and transparency criteria recommended by a recent Committee of the National Academy of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine, for developing a monetized estimate of the future damages from an incremental increase in carbon dioxide emissions in a given year (i.e., the social cost of carbon dioxide [SC‐CO2]). The National Academies report directly addresses methods for estimating the SC‐CO2, including a chapter outlining specific recommendations for a carbon/climate module. The carbon/climate piece of the model platform will capture the dispersion of carbon and energy through the earth system, and estimate the resulting change in several globally averaged metrics: temperature change, sea level, and ocean acidity. A number of model characteristics are evaluated and the findings identify models that meet the recommendations associated with each characteristic. Based on these findings, there are several publically available carbon/climate models that would meet the recommendations presented by the National Academies.

This article is categorized under:

Climate Economics > Economics and Climate Change
Reliability analysis of offshore grids—An overview of recent research
Authors: Tuinema Bart W. , Getreuer Reinout E. , Rueda Torres José L. , van der Meijden Mart A. M. M.
Published: June 2018

For the future, a large‐scale expansion of offshore wind energy is expected in Europe. To collect this wind energy and to enable electricity trading between countries, an offshore network will be implemented in the North Sea. Maintaining a high level of security of supply at affordable costs is one of the key objectives in the design and operation of power systems and therefore, the reliability of offshore grids is an important topic of discussion. Whereas onshore, the security of supply is assured by reliability criteria like n‐1 redundancy, the same n‐1 redundancy might not be an economical solution for offshore networks. For todays (small) offshore networks, n‐1 redundancy is hardly economically justifiable, seen from a wind farm owner's point of view. The question then arises how the reliability of large‐scale offshore networks should be evaluated and what measures can be taken to maintain a high security of supply onshore. This paper aims at discussing this topic by reviewing the results of recent research work. It is found that whereas for smaller offshore networks reliability evaluation is mainly an economic analysis seen from a wind farm owner's point of view, for large‐scale offshore networks, it is necessary to consider the interaction of offshore–onshore networks in reliability analysis. It is proposed to analyze the reliability of combined offshore–onshore power systems in an integrated approach, such that various (offshore and onshore) measures can be considered to find the most economical solution.

This article is categorized under:

Wind Power > Systems and Infrastructure

Energy Infrastructure > Systems and Infrastructure

Energy Systems Economics > Systems and Infrastructure