bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On electrophoresis of a pH‐regulated nanogel with ion partitioning effects
Authors: Majee P. S. , Bhattacharyya Somnath , Dutta Prashanta
Published: August 2018

The electrophoresis of a polyelectrolyte nanoparticle, whose charge condition depends on the salt concentration and pH of the suspended medium as well as the dielectric permittivity difference, is analyzed. The present nonlinear model for the electrophoresis of this pH‐regulated polyelectrolyte (PE) particle is based on the consideration of full set of governing equations of fluid and ion transport coupled with the equation for electric field. The Born energy of the ions are incorporated to account for the difference in the dielectric permittivity of the PE and the electrolyte. The governing equations are computed numerically through a control volume approach. The nonlinear effects are highlighted by comparing with the existing linear model as well as results based on the first‐order perturbation analysis valid for a weak applied field. The ion partitioning effect arising due to the difference in self energy of ions between the two media, have a strong impact on the mobility of the PE. The ion partitioning effect attenuates the penetration of counterions in the PE, which enhances the electric force and hence, results in a larger mobility of the PE. The nonlinear effects due to the double layer polarization and relaxation are intensified due to the ion partitioning effect. The ion partitioning effect influences the association/dissociation of PE functional group by tuning the hydrogen/hydroxide ions. Present study shows that the ion partitioning effect is profound for higher salt concentration and/or higher volume density of PE functional groups.
A Gibbs sampling algorithm for structural modal identification under seismic excitation
Authors: Li Binbin , Der Kiureghian Armen , Au Siu‐Kui
Published: August 2018

Identification of structural modal parameters under seismic excitation using operational modal analysis (OMA) is a challenging task because it violates the basic assumptions of OMA: linear time‐invariant model, stationary white noise input, and adequately long data. The consequence is significant uncertainties associated with the identified modal parameters. This study aims at developing an algorithm to quantify these uncertainties from a Bayesian perspective. Representing the structure and the seismic excitation by a state‐space model, a probabilistic OMA scheme is formulated. The analytical solution for the posterior statistics is not achievable, and a Gibbs sampling algorithm is developed to provide an efficient and robust numerical solution appropriate for practical applications. The performance of the proposed method is validated by identifying a shear‐type building using simulated response data under 4 recorded earthquake motions, and a supertall building—the One Rincon Hill in San Francisco—using field‐recorded data under seismic and ambient excitations. The computed posterior distributions of modal parameters represent the knowledge extracted from the measured data; they can be reliably used for model validation and health monitoring.
Comparing fluid viscous damper placement methods considering total‐building seismic performance
Authors: Del Gobbo Giuseppe M. , Williams Martin S. , Blakeborough Anthony
Published: August 2018

Nonstructural damage has been found to critically influence economic losses and building downtime following earthquakes. Attaining a target level of seismic performance mandates the harmonization of structural and nonstructural performance. Retrofitting buildings with fluid viscous dampers (FVDs) can improve interstorey drifts and floor accelerations, 2 structural parameters that characterize seismic demand on structural and nonstructural systems. The distribution of dampers within a building is a critical decision; however, no conclusive optimal placement method has been identified due to performance variations between storeys and between structural parameters. This paper compares 6 frequently used damper placement methods considering structural and nonstructural repair costs calculated using FEMA P‐58. The scope is limited to linear FVDs, concentric braced frames, and regular structures. Comparisons of the placement methods are based on constraining the added viscous damping coefficient to be the same in each case; this may give different results to methods based on damper cost. No placement method produced optimal results for both interstorey drifts and accelerations. Iterative methods that seek to optimize seismic performance did not achieve that objective. The iterative methods optimize local parameters assuming the performance of each is independent, and optimizing for a single parameter may worsen another parameter that impacts earthquake damage. The storey shear strain energy method and uniform damping generally produced repair costs that are more favorable than, or equal to, the other placement methods. It appears unlikely that large repair cost improvements can be achieved using an “optimal” damper placement method for low‐rise and mid‐rise structures.
Hepatocellular Carcinoma Detection by Plasma Methylated DNA: Discovery, Phase I Pilot, and Phase II Clinical Validation
Authors: Kisiel John B. , Dukek Brian A. , V.S.R. Kanipakam Reddappa , Ghoz Hassan M. , Yab Tracy C. , Berger Calise K. , Taylor William R. , Foote Patrick H. , Giama Nasra H. , Onyirioha Kristeen , Abdallah Mohamed A. , Burger Kelli N. , Slettedahl Seth W. , Mahoney Douglas W. , Smyrk Thomas C. , Lewis Jason T. , Giakoumopoulos Maria , Allawi Hatim T. , Lidgard Graham P. , Roberts Lewis R. , Ahlquist David A.
Published: August 2018

Early detection improves hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) outcomes, but better noninvasive surveillance tools are needed. We aimed to identify and validate methylated DNA markers (MDMs) for HCC detection. Reduced representation bisulfite sequencing was performed on DNA extracted from 18 HCC and 35 control tissues. Candidate MDMs were confirmed by quantitative methylation‐specific PCR in DNA from independent tissues (74 HCC, 29 controls). A phase I plasma pilot incorporated quantitative allele‐specific real‐time target and signal amplification assays on independent plasma‐extracted DNA from 21 HCC cases and 30 controls with cirrhosis. A phase II plasma study was then performed in 95 HCC cases, 51 controls with cirrhosis, and 98 healthy controls using target enrichment long‐probe quantitative amplified signal (TELQAS) assays. Recursive partitioning identified best MDM combinations. The entire MDM panel was statistically cross‐validated by randomly splitting the data 2:1 for training and testing. Random forest (rForest) regression models performed on the training set predicted disease status in the testing set; median areas under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUCs; and 95% confidence interval [CI]) were reported after 500 iterations. In phase II, a six‐marker MDM panel (homeobox A1 [HOXA1], empty spiracles homeobox 1 [EMX1],
AK055957
, endothelin‐converting enzyme 1 [ECE1], phosphofructokinase [PFKP], and C‐type lectin domain containing 11A [CLEC11A]) normalized by beta‐1,3‐galactosyltransferase 6 (B3GALT6) level yielded a best‐fit AUC of 0.96 (95% CI, 0.93‐0.99) with HCC sensitivity of 95% (88%‐98%) at specificity of 92% (86%‐96%). The panel detected 3 of 4 (75%) stage 0, 39 of 42 (93%) stage A, 13 of 14 (93%) stage B, 28 of 28 (100%) stage C, and 7 of 7 (100%) stage D HCCs. The AUC value for alpha‐fetoprotein (AFP) was 0.80 (0.74‐0.87) compared to 0.94 (0.9‐0.97) for the cross‐validated MDM panel (P < 0.0001).
Conclusion

: MDMs identified in this study proved to accurately detect HCC by plasma testing. Further optimization and clinical testing of this promising approach are indicated.
Sorghum‐Sudangrass Water Productivity Under Subsurface Drip Irrigation
Authors: Mahmoudzadeh Varzi Manijeh , Oad Ramchand
Published: August 2018

Growing urban areas and industries tend to acquire water from the agricultural sector in order to satisfy their increasing water demand. As a result, agriculture needs to cope with limited available water for irrigation purposes. Yield response to water is, therefore, a basic piece of information that helps farm management to plan for water shortage. This research has determined the effect of water stress on yield production of sorghum‐sudangrass in semiarid eastern Colorado, USA. The research was conducted in an experimental field equipped with subsurface drip irrigation system during the 2015 and 2016 growing seasons. The goal was to define the functional relationship between crop actual evapotranspiration and marketable yield, or the crop water production function; the results support a linear relationship between the two variables, indicating that the productivity of water stays constant with changes in evapotranspiration. Average crop water productivity for sorghum‐sudangrass was 5.49 kg m‐3 for the 2 years of data, which is higher than water productivity of most forage crops. However, sorghum varieties tend to accumulate nitrogen during drought periods and hay nitrogen toxicity becomes a concern under water stress. The crop water production function developed in this research can be used to predict the effect of water stress on yield loss and consequent farm profit loss, which is essential in planning for water transfer and compensating farmers for forgoing irrigation. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Organization and Preparation of Water Works to Meet Major Catastrophes Preparedness Plan for San Francisco
Authors: Eckart N. A.
Published: August 2018

This and the three following papers comprised a symposium at the Buffalo convention on June 10, 1987. The general topic “Organization and Preparation of Water Works for Major Catastrophes” was discussed with reference to earthquakes, conflagrations, floods and tornadoes.
Response to bullying (RTB): Behavioral skills and in situ training for individuals diagnosed with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Stannis Rebecca L. , Crosland Kimberly A. , Miltenberger Raymond , Valbuena Diego
Published: August 2018

This study evaluated behavioral skills training (BST) and in situ training (IST) to teach a response to bullying (RtB) to four adults with intellectual disabilities who were victims of bullying. The RtB consisted of refraining from retaliating, stating disapproval, walking away, and telling a staff member. In situ assessments were conducted in the natural setting to assess the effects of BST and IST. BST alone was successful in teaching the RtB to two participants. When BST did not result in the use of the RtB, IST was effective for one participant, and IST plus an incentive was effective for the other participant. The results of this study are consistent with previous BST and IST research.
RETRACTED: Upregulation of lncRNA snoRNA host gene 6 regulates NUAK family SnF1‐like kinase‐1 expression by competitively binding microRNA‐125b and interacting with Snail1/2 in bladder cancer
Authors: Wang Chunyang , Tao Weiyang , Ni Shaobin , Chen Qiyin
Published: August 2018

Backgrounds/aims

Numerous studies have reported that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play critical roles in the development and progression of bladder cancer (BC). LncRNA snoRNA host gene 6 (SNHG6) is ectopically expressed in tumor tissues of patients with BC and BC cell lines. However, little is known about the molecular mechanism of SNHG6‐mediated bladder urothelial carcinoma cell migration and invasion.

Methods

We detected the SNHG6 levels in human BC specimens and cell lines by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot, and investigated its role in BC using in vitro assays.

Results

We showed that overexpression of SNHG6 induced epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) and promoted the migration and invasion capabilities of BC cells. Mechanistically, SNHG6 induced EMT of BC cells by upregulating the expression levels of Snail1/2 and regulated BC cell migration and invasion by tumor suppressive hsa‐miR‐125b and its target gene NUAK Family Kinase 1 (NUAK1). Furthermore, we found that SNHG6 was positively correlated with Snail1/2 expression, and negatively correlated with hsa‐miR‐125b expression in BC specimens. Further study showed that SNHG6 repressed hsa‐miR‐125b expression to upregulate Snail1/2. Conversely, hsa‐miR‐125b knockdown augmented SNHG6 expression in BC cells.

Conclusion

Overall, our study demonstrated that SNHG6 promotes BC cell migration and invasion partly via the hsa‐miR‐125b/Snail1/2/NUAK1 pathway. Therefore, SNHG6 may be a potential prognostic biomarker in BC, and targeting hsa‐miR‐125b/Snail1/2/NUAK1 axis may be a promising therapeutic approach for BC patients.
A SimpleProbe® real‐time PCR assay for differentiating the canine parvovirus type 2 genotype
Authors: Hoang Minh , Wu Hung‐Yi , Lien Ying‐Xiu , Chiou Ming‐Tang , Lin Chao‐Nan
Published: August 2018

Background

Canine parvovirus type 2 (CPV‐2) causes an important canine viral disease worldwide. CPV‐2 belongs to the Protoparvovirus genus in the family Parvoviridae. An amino acid change at position 426 of the VP2 protein differentiate types of CPV‐2, designated as CPV‐2a (Asn), CPV‐2b (Asp), and CPV‐2c (Glu). In this study, we compared CPV‐2 genotyping results obtained by SimpleProbe® real‐time PCR and DNA sequencing analysis to identify the accuracy and sensitivity of these methods.

Methods

One hundred rectal swabs were collected from CPV‐2 naturally infected dogs from 2015 to 2017 at the Animal Disease Diagnostic Center, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology. CPV‐2 genotyping was performed by SimpleProbe® real‐time PCR and DNA sequencing to compare results.

Results

CPV‐2a (n = 23), 2b (n = 6) and 2c (n = 71) genotyping results obtained by both techniques were identical with specificity of 100% for SimpleProbe® assay. In the SimpleProbe® assay, amplifying the DNAs prepared from the clinical specimens showed three distinct melting curve peaks. CPV‐2b had the highest melting peak of 57.8°C (CI 95%: 57.7‐58.5°C) followed by CPV‐2c with a slightly lower melting peak of 52.3°C (CI 95%: 52.2‐53.2°C) and CPV‐2a with the lowest peak of 50.2°C (CI 95%: 50.1‐50.5°C).

Conclusion

This study developed a novel method for genotyping CPV‐2 strains using the SimpleProbe® real‐time PCR assay. This assay is a reliable and sensitive tool for differentiating between the CPV‐2a, 2b and 2c and this technique can be used for molecular CPV‐2 epidemiology studies.
Human hepatitis E virus circulation in Bulgaria: Deep Bayesian phylogenetic analysis for viral spread control in the country
Authors: Cella Eleonora , Golkocheva‐Markova Elitsa , Sagnelli Caterina , Scolamacchia Vittoria , Bruni Roberto , Villano Umbertina , Ciccaglione Anna Rita , Equestre Michele , Sagnelli Evangelista , Angeletti Silvia , Ciccozzi Massimo
Published: August 2018

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection in Bulgaria is endemic, as demonstrated by the seroprevalence of antibody against the virus in the general population and by the high prevalence of clinical cases registered. In this study, a deep Bayesian phylogenetic analysis has been performed to provide information on the genetic diversity and the spread of HEV genotypes in Bulgaria. Three different data sets of HEV virus was built for genotyping by the maximum likelihood method, for evolutionary rate estimated by Bayesian Markov Chain Monte Carlo approach, for demographic history investigation and for selective pressure analysis. The evolutionary rate for genotype 3e, was 351 × 10−3 substitution/site/year (95% highest posterior density [95% HPD]: 145 × 10
−3‐575 × 10
−3). The root of the time to the most recent common ancestor of the Bayesian maximum clade credibility tree of HEV 3e genotype corresponded to 1965 (HPD 95% 1949‐1994). The Bulgarian sequences mainly clustered in the main clade (clade A). The monophyletic clade included all Bulgarian genotype 3e sequences. The demographic history showed a slight growth from 1995 to 2000, followed by a sort of bottleneck in 2010s, a peak in 2011 and a new growth to 2015. Selection pressure analysis did not show sites under positive pressure but 64 statistically significant sites under negative selection. Molecular epidemiological surveillance by Bayesian phylogeny of HEV virus can contribute to trace the way of human infection after contact with swine source directly or heating meat improving public health control.
Pathophysiology in the suprachiasmatic nucleus in mouse models of Huntington’s disease
Authors: Kuljis Dika , Kudo Takashi , Tahara Yu , Ghiani Cristina A. , Colwell Christopher S.
Published: August 2018

Disturbances in sleep/wake cycle are a common complaint of individuals with Huntington's disease (HD) and are displayed by HD mouse models. The underlying mechanisms, including the possible role of the circadian timing system, are not well established. The BACHD mouse model of HD exhibits disrupted behavioral and physiological rhythms, including decreased electrical activity in the central circadian clock (suprachiasmatic nucleus, SCN). In this study, electrophysiological techniques were used to explore the ionic underpinning of the reduced spontaneous neural activity in male mice. We found that SCN neural activity rhythms were lost early in the disease progression and was accompanied by loss of the normal daily variation in resting membrane potential in the mutant SCN neurons. The low neural activity could be transiently reversed by direct current injection or application of exogenous N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate (NMDA) thus demonstrating that the neurons have the capacity to discharge at WT levels. Exploring the potassium currents known to regulate the electrical activity of SCN neurons, our most striking finding was that these cells in the mutants exhibited an enhancement in the large‐conductance calcium activated K+ (BK) currents. The expression of the pore forming subunit (Kcnma1) of the BK channel was higher in the mutant SCN. We found a similar decrease in daytime electrical activity and enhancement in the magnitude of the BK currents early in disease in another HD mouse model (Q175). These findings suggest that SCN neurons of both HD models exhibit early pathophysiology and that dysregulation of BK current may be responsible.
Exploiting green sorbents in rotating‐disk sorptive extraction for the determination of parabens by high‐performance liquid chromatography with tandem electrospray ionization triple quadrupole mass spectrometry
Authors: Vieira Camila M. S. , Mazurkievicz Melaine , Lopez Calvo Angela Maria , Debatin Vítor , Micke Gustavo Amadeu , Richter Pablo , Rosero‐Moreano Milton , Rocha Eduardo Carasek da
Published: August 2018

In this study, the viability of applying cork and montmorillonite clay modified with ionic liquid as biosorbents in the rotating‐disk sorptive extraction technique was investigated. Specifically, this was aimed at the determination of methyl paraben, ethyl paraben, propyl paraben, and isobutyl paraben, with separation/determination by high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. The optimization of the method for both biosorbents was performed using multivariate procedures. The extraction efficiencies for the target compounds in aqueous matrices were compared to those obtained using the commercial sorbent Octadecil Silano‐C18. The optimum extraction conditions for both natural sorbents were the use of an ammonia solution (pH 10) as desorption solvent and an extraction time of 30 min. The proposed methods show limits of quantification of 0.8 μg/L for cork, 3.0 μg/L for montmorillonite clay and 6.0 μg/L for Octadecil Silano‐C18. The relative recoveries from river water and tap water samples ranged from 80.3 to 118.7% and 80.0 to 119.9% for cork and montmorillonite clay modified with ionic liquid, respectively. Relative standard deviations were obtained for intra‐ and interday precisions of <15% and <19% for cork and <19% and <17% for montmorillonite clay modified with ionic liquid.
Occurrence of multi‐class mycotoxins in Menthae haplocalycis analyzed by ultra‐fast liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Luo Jiaoyang , Zhou Wenju , Dou Xiaowen , Qin Jiaan , Zhao Ming , Yang Meihua
Published: August 2018

To determine the presence of multi‐class mycotoxins in Menthae haplocalycis, a sample processing procedure based on a modified quick, easy, effective, rugged, and safe method, and a rapid and accurate testing method using ultra‐fast performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry, was developed and validated. We systematically evaluated the methodology for multi‐mycotoxin analysis in the Menthae haplocalycis samples, and chose matrix‐matched calibration curves as a reference to calculate the recoveries. Overall, the average recoveries varied between 67.1 and 103%, with relative standard deviations ranging from 0.34 to 10.3%. The optimized and validated method was applied to detect the presence of the target mycotoxins in 40 batches of Menthae haplocalycis samples. Results showed that the levels of mycotoxins varied among the samples. The most prevalent mycotoxin was tentoxin, followed by alternariol, alternariol monomethyl ether, zearalenone, fumonisin B2, fumonisin B1, ochratoxin A, aflatoxin B1, aflatoxin B2, aflatoxin G1, and T‐2 toxin. The analytical method developed herein could be applied for the routine monitoring of multi‐mycotoxins in Menthae haplocalycis.
Modelling environment and poverty factors for sustainable agriculture in the Three Gorges Reservoir Regions of China
Authors: Cheng Xin , Shuai Chuanmin , Liu Jiali , Wang Jing , Liu Yue , Li Wenjing , Shuai Jing
Published: August 2018

Modelling is a good tool for understanding the complex interactions of the agricultural systems; however, few studies have used a combined method of text mining and system dynamics to analyse and simulate the agricultural system. We propose the topic modelling–system dynamics modelling (TM‐SDM) analytical framework to extract, synthesise, and dynamically simulate the factors of land management, disaster, pollution, and poverty in the system. Specifically, 1,598 English language publications were collected to analyse the main concerns and conceptual structure of the sustainable development in the case study area based on topic modelling. Historical data from 2000 to 2014 are used for simulation and prediction based on system dynamics modelling, exploring and comparing different policy scenarios. The results show that policies about education and training, sewage treatment, infrastructure construction, and soil erosion control would help poverty reduction significantly. Sewage treatment policy reduces the incidence of human disease and sewage discharge significantly. Education and training policy has the greatest impact on the improvement of poverty reduction and yield of crops, and the environmental protection scenario has the best performance on maintaining the cultivated land. The balanced development scenario benefits both the poverty reduction and environmental protection concurrently. Focussing on a systems approach to improve the sustainability of agriculture, this paper could have a positive impact on the development and implementation of sustainable agricultural systems. The TM‐SDM analysis and modelling framework that we proposed has a generic nature, which could be applied to the further research and decision‐making on sustainable agriculture and other fields involving complex systems.
Solute evidence for hydrological connectivity of geographically isolated wetlands
Authors: Thorslund Josefin , Cohen Matthew J. , Jawitz James W. , Destouni Georgia , Creed Irena F. , Rains Mark C. , Badiou Pascal , Jarsjö Jerker
Published: August 2018

Hydrological connectivity describes the water‐mediated transfer of mass, energy, and organisms between landscape elements and is the foundation for understanding how individual elements such as wetlands and streams integrate to support ecosystem services and nature‐based solutions in the landscape. Hydrological connectivity of geographically isolated wetlands (GIWs)—that is, wetlands without persistent surface water connections—is particularly poorly understood. To better understand GIW hydrological connectivity, we use a novel chloride mass‐balance approach to quantify the local runoff generation (defined as precipitation minus evapotranspiration, assuming negligible long‐term water storage) for 260 GIW subcatchments across North America. To evaluate hydrological connectivity, we compare the estimated local runoff from GIW subcatchments with the catchment‐average runoff. These comparisons provide three novel insights regarding the magnitude and variability of GIW hydrological connectivity. First, across 10 study regions, GIW subcatchments generate runoff at 120% of the mean catchment rate, implying they are well‐connected elements of the larger hydrologic landscape. Second, there is substantial heterogeneity in runoff generation among GIW subcatchments, which may enable support for a wide array of ecosystem functions and services. Finally, observed heterogeneity in runoff generation was largely uncorrelated to simple linear geographic predictors, indicating that GIW landscape position cannot reliably predict hydrological connectivity. In stark contrast to a priori legal assumptions that GIWs exhibit low or no hydrological connectivity, our results suggest that GIW subcatchments are active landscape features in runoff generation.
Can eye‐tracking metrics be used to better pair radiologists in a mammogram reading task?
Authors: Gandomkar Ziba , Tay Kevin , Brennan Patrick C. , Kozuch Emma , Mello‐Thoms Claudia
Published: August 2018

Purpose

To propose a framework for optimal pairing of radiologists when reading mammograms based on their search patterns.

Materials and Methods

Four experienced and four less‐experienced radiologists were asked to assess 120 cases (59 with cancers) while their eye positions were tracked. Fourteen eye‐tracking metrics were extracted to quantify the differences among radiologists' visual search pattern. For each radiologist and metric, less‐experienced radiologists and expert readers were ranked based on the level of similarities in gaze patterns (from the most different to the most similar). Less‐experienced readers and experts were also ranked based on the values of area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) after pairing (the best possible way of ranking). Using the Kendall's tau distance, rankings based on different metrics were compared with the best possible ranking. Using paired Wilcoxon signed‐rank test, theAUCvalues when pairing in the best way were compared with pairing based on different metrics. Finally, we investigated the robustness of pairing strategies against the small sample size.

Results

For ranking the experienced radiologists, results from eight metrics were as good as the best possible ranking. For the less‐experienced ones, only one metric resulted in a ranking comparable to the best possible way of ranking. TheAUCvalues of pairings based on these metrics did not differ significantly from the best pairing scenario. Compared to the pairings based on the cognitive metrics, the ranking based onAUCvalues varied more greatly with the sample size, suggesting that it is less robust against the small sample size compared to the cognitive metrics.

Conclusion

Different pairings may have different effects on performance; some are detrimental while some improve the performance of the pair. Using the suggested cognitive metrics, we can optimize the pairings even with a small dataset.
Investigating the relationships among neighborhood factors and asthma control in African American children: A study protocol
Authors: DePriest Kelli , Butz Arlene , Gross Deborah
Published: August 2018

Over 2 million children in the US have uncontrolled asthma. African American children are disproportionately affected with a risk of dying from asthma that is 7.6 times higher than non‐Hispanic White children. Racial disparities in childhood asthma are partially attributed to differential exposures to poverty; unsafe and stressful neighborhoods; and unhealthy physical environments. This paper describes the protocol for an ongoing National Institutes of Health/National Institute of Nursing Research‐funded descriptive, cross‐sectional study to investigate two neighborhood factors that may influence children's asthma. Building on an existing dataset, this study examines associations among neighborhood greenspace, neighborhood safety, and level of asthma control while controlling for indoor asthma triggers in an urban sample of predominantly low‐income, African American children with persistent asthma. Two new variables are added to the dataset: availability of neighborhood greenspace and neighborhood violent crime rate. Greenspace is being accessed using geographic information systems and measured using the normalized difference vegetation index. Neighborhood violent crime rate is calculated using geocoded, point locations for crimes downloaded from the city police department. It is hypothesized that parents living in unsafe neighborhoods are likely to keep their children indoors, thereby increasing their children's exposure to indoor asthma triggers and limiting the potential benefits of neighborhood greenspace. The biggest challenges thus far are related to limited variability in greenspace and violent crime rates. Progress to date and strategies to address these challenges are discussed. Results have the potential to inform interventions to improve asthmatic children's health and influence public health policy.
Epoxy system with two‐way shape memory effect under isostress condition
Authors: Dong Yubing , Zhu Yaofeng , Chen Shuaijie , Fu Yaqin
Published: August 2018

In the present study, an epoxy system with excellent one‐way shape memory effect (SME) and two‐way SME under isostress condition was reported. The strain level of the two‐way SME of the epoxy system depended on the testing temperature range and ramp rate.
Characterization and effect of metal ions on the formation of the Thermus thermophilus Sco mixed disulfide intermediate
Authors: Lopez Liezelle C. , Mukhitov Nikita , Handley Lindsey D. , Hamme Cristina S. , Hofman Cristina R. , Euers Lindsay , McKinney Jennifer R. , Piers Amani D. , Wadler Ellen , Hunsicker‐Wang Laura M.
Published: August 2018

The Sco protein from Thermus thermophilus has previously been shown to perform a disulfide bond reduction in the CuA protein from T. thermophilus, which is a soluble protein engineered from subunit II of cytochrome ba
3 oxidase that lacks the transmembrane helix. The native cysteines on TtSco and TtCuA were mutated to serine residues to probe the reactivities of the individual cysteines. Conjugation of TNB to the remaining cysteine in TtCuA and subsequent release upon incubation with the complementary TtSco protein demonstrated the formation of the mixed disulfide intermediate. The cysteine of TtSco that attacks the disulfide bond in the target TtCuA protein was determined to be TtSco Cysteine 49. This cysteine is likely more reactive than Cysteine 53 due to a higher degree of solvent exposure. Removal of the metal binding histidine, His 139, does not change MDI formation. However, altering the arginine adjacent to the reactive cysteine in Sco (Arginine 48) does alter the formation of the MDI. Binding of Cu2+ or Cu+ to TtSco prior to reaction with TtCuA was found to preclude formation of the mixed disulfide intermediate. These results shed light on a mechanism of disulfide bond reduction by the TtSco protein and may point to a possible role of metal binding in regulating the activity.

Importance

The function of Sco is at the center of many studies. The disulfide bond reduction in CuA by Sco is investigated herein and the effect of metal ions on the ability to reduce and form a mixed disulfide intermediate are also probed.
A stable meta‐carborane enables the generation of boron‐rich peptide agonists targeting the ghrelin receptor
Authors: Worm Dennis J. , Els‐Heindl Sylvia , Kellert Martin , Kuhnert Robert , Saretz Stefan , Koebberling Johannes , Riedl Bernd , Hey‐Hawkins Evamarie , Beck‐Sickinger Annette G.
Published: August 2018

Boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) is a binary cancer therapy, which combines the biochemical targeting of a boron‐containing drug with the regional localization of radiation treatment. Although the concept of BNCT has been known for decades, the selective delivery of boron into tumor cells remains challenging. G protein‐coupled receptors that are overexpressed on cancer cells in combination with peptidic ligands can be potentially used as shuttle system for a tumor‐directed boron uptake. In this study, we present the generation of short, boron‐rich peptide conjugates that target the ghrelin receptor. Expression of the ghrelin receptor on various cancer cells makes it a viable target for BNCT. We designed a novel hexapeptide super‐agonist that was modified with different specifically synthesized carborane monoclusters and tested for ghrelin receptor activation. A meta‐carborane building block with a mercaptoacetic acid linker was found to be optimal for peptide modification, owing to its chemical stability and a suitable activation efficacy of the conjugate. The versatility of this carborane for the development of peptidic boron delivery agents was further demonstrated by the generation of highly potent, boron‐loaded conjugates using the backbone of the known ghrelin receptor ligands growth hormone releasing peptide 6 and Ipamorelin.
Spanish nationals' future plans in the context of Brexit
Authors: McCarthy Helen N.J.
Published: August 2018

This paper examines the future plans of Spanish nationals resident in the United Kingdom following the United Kingdom's vote to leave the European Union, commonly referred to as Brexit. Drawing on the literature on migration decision‐making, the paper asks how changes to rights‐based ideas of belonging and identity in the wake of the Brexit vote will impact on Spanish nationals' decisions about the future. Using results from an online survey, the paper explores Spanish nationals' plans for the future, their sense of feeling of “at home” in the United Kingdom, and their views on Brexit. Recognising that the community is not homogenous, the paper considers the different experiences of Latin Americans with Spanish nationality and Spaniards who were born in Spain. Feelings of belonging are contingent and shift over time, and Brexit is perceived negatively by the vast majority of respondents. However, a number of factors such as time in the country and family relationships affect planned future length of time in the United Kingdom. Individuals respond differently to the uncertainty provoked by the referendum, with Latin Americans with Spanish nationality reporting a greater desire to take the necessary steps to establish themselves permanently in the United Kingdom.
Boundary Work to Conduct Business as Usual: Interaction at the Boundary Between the Affected Organization and Emergency Responders
Authors: Oscarsson Olof
Published: August 2018

The goal of this study was to examine the interaction when a workplace suffers an emergency and the emergency responders temporarily deploy their workplace inside the affected workplace to address the emergency. The research is based on semi‐structured interviews with personnel from fire and rescue services and personnel from schools and elderly care centers. The results are structured around four boundary work practices that govern the interaction: emergency containment, division of responsibility, division of labor and crossing the boundary. These boundary work practices provide structure and enable both parties to concentrate on their own work. It also enables support over the workplace boundaries. Thus, the interaction may be described as a cooperation mutually accomplished by both parties.
General stabilization method of fractional‐order PIλDμ controllers for fractional‐order systems with time delay
Authors: Yu Xinyi , Yang Fan , Ou Linlin , Wu Qunhong , Zhang Weidong
Published: August 2018

In this paper, an effective method is proposed to get the stabilizing regions of fractional‐order PIλDμ controllers for an arbitrarily given fractional‐order system with time delay. For each known proportional gain (kp), integral gain (ki), or derivative gain (kd) in the PIλDμ controllers, the stabilizing region with respect to the other two control gains is derived respectively. The boundaries of the stabilizing regions are firstly obtained based on singular frequencies. Then, the main results are presented to directly determine the stabilizing region from an analytical viewpoint. The results avoid the time‐consuming stability test since the stabilizing region is usually determined by manually choosing lots of test points from all the divided regions by the resultant boundaries. Besides, the stabilizing (ki, kd) regions of the PIλDμ controllers for λ + μ = 2 can be determined and the linear programming characteristic of the stabilizing (ki, kd) region for the case λ + μ = 2 is obtained. Furthermore, the robust stabilizing region is analyzed. The results in this paper provide the basis for both the tuning of the PIλDμ controller in practice and the design of the PIλDμ controller satisfying different performance criteria. Numerical examples and an application example are presented to check the validity of the proposed method.
The importance of scale in understanding the effect of stream intermittence on aquatic macroinvertebrate diversity
Authors: Wooster David E. , DeBano Sandra J.
Published: August 2018

Biotic richness in intermittent reaches (α‐diversity) is generally lower than in perennial reaches. However, variability among intermittent reaches (β‐diversity) is predicted to be higher. Yet how patterns in α‐ and β‐diversity scale up to influence stream network diversity is unclear and has received little attention. In addition, the timing of sampling relative to the resumption of flow in intermittent reaches should influence patterns in diversity. We predicted that early in the wet season, assemblages in intermittent reaches would be recovering from drying and have lower α‐diversity and higher β‐diversity relative to perennial reaches but that these patterns might not be reflected at the stream network scale. In contrast, we predicted that late in the wet season, assemblages in intermittent reaches would recover and α, β, and network diversity would be similar between intermittent and perennial reaches. These predictions were tested with macroinvertebrate assemblages in an eastern Oregon stream network. Early in the wet season, α‐diversity and network diversity were lower in intermittent than perennial reaches; however, β‐diversity was similar between the two types of reaches. Late in the wet season, both α‐diversity and β‐diversity were similar between intermittent and perennial reaches, suggesting recovery of intermittent reaches from drying. However, at the network scale, intermittent reaches continued to have lower diversity indicating a lack of recovery. Rare taxa were particularly vulnerable to flow intermittency. Our results indicate that a consideration of spatial scale, taxa abundance/rarity, and timing of sampling will improve our understanding of the effect of flow intermittence on diversity.
Standing Surface Acoustic Wave (SSAW)‐Based Fluorescence‐Activated Cell Sorter
Authors: Ren Liqiang , Yang Shujie , Zhang Peiran , Qu Zhiguo , Mao Zhangming , Huang Po‐Hsun , Chen Yuchao , Wu Mengxi , Wang Lin , Li Peng , Huang Tony Jun
Published: August 2018

Microfluidic fluorescence‐activated cell sorters (μFACS) have attracted considerable interest because of their ability to identify and separate cells in inexpensive and biosafe ways. Here a high‐performance μFACS is presented by integrating a standing surface acoustic wave (SSAW)‐based, 3D cell‐focusing unit, an in‐plane fluorescent detection unit, and an SSAW‐based cell‐deflection unit on a single chip. Without using sheath flow or precise flow rate control, the SSAW‐based cell‐focusing technique can focus cells into a single file at a designated position. The tight focusing of cells enables an in‐plane‐integrated optical detection system to accurately distinguish individual cells of interest. In the acoustic‐based cell‐deflection unit, a focused interdigital transducer design is utilized to deflect cells from the focused stream within a minimized area, resulting in a high‐throughput sorting ability. Each unit is experimentally characterized, respectively, and the integrated SSAW‐based FACS is used to sort mammalian cells (HeLa) at different throughputs. A sorting purity of greater than 90% is achieved at a throughput of 2500 events s−1. The SSAW‐based FACS is efficient, fast, biosafe, biocompatible and has a small footprint, making it a competitive alternative to more expensive, bulkier traditional FACS.
Emerging Roles of Air Gases in Lipid Bilayers
Authors: Lee Chia‐Wei , Chiang Ya‐Ling , Liu Ji‐Ting , Chen Yi‐Xian , Lee Chau‐Hwang , Chen Yeng‐Long , Hwang Ing‐Shouh
Published: August 2018

Recent studies indicate that changing the physical properties of lipid bilayers may profoundly change the function of membrane proteins. Here, the effects of dissolved nitrogen and oxygen molecules on the mechanical properties and stability of lipid bilayers are investigated using differential confocal microscopy, atomic force microscopy, and molecular dynamics simulations. All experiments evidence the presence of dissolved air gas in lipid bilayers prepared without gas control. The lipid bilayers in degassed solutions are softer and less stable than those in ambient solutions. High concentrations of nitrogen increase the bending moduli and stability of the lipid bilayers and impede phase separation in ternary lipid bilayers. The effect of oxygen is less prominent. Molecular dynamics simulations indicate that higher nitrogen affinity accounts for increased rigidity. These findings have fundamental and wide implications for phenomena related to lipid bilayers and cell membranes, including the origin of life.
Cucurbit[8]uril‐Based Polymers and Polymer Materials
Authors: Zou Hua , Liu Jing , Li Ying , Li Xiaoyan , Wang Xia
Published: August 2018

Cucurbit[8]uril (CB[8]) is unique and notable in the cucurbit[n]uril family, since it has a relatively large cavity and thus is able to simultaneously accommodate two guest molecules. Typically, an electron‐deficient first guest and an electron‐rich second guest can be bound by CB[8] to form a stable 1:1:1 heteroternary supramolecular complex. Additionally, two homo guests can also be strongly dimerized inside the cavity of CB[8] to form a 2:1 homoternary supramolecular complex. During the past decade, by combining polymer science and CB[8] host–guest chemistry, a variety of systems have been established to construct supramolecular polymers with polymer chains typically at the nanoscale/sub‐microscale, and CB[8]‐based micro/nanostructured polymer materials in the form of polymer networks and hydrogels, microcapsules, micelles, vesicles, and colloidal particles, normally in solution and occasionally on surfaces. This Review summarizes the noncovalent interactions and strategies used for the preparation of CB[8]‐based polymers and polymer materials with a focus on the representative and latest developments, followed by a brief discussion of their characterization, properties, and applications.
Development mechanism of plastic hinge in reinforced engineered cementitious composite beams under monotonic loading
Authors: Xu Li , Pan Jinlong , Lu Cong , Yin Wanyun
Published: August 2018

Engineered cementitious composites (ECCs) are materials featuring strain‐hardening behavior with the formation of multiple cracks. When ECC is incorporated in structural applications such as beam, it is expected to significantly improve their mechanical performance. In this study, finite element analysis is performed to investigate the characteristics of the plastic hinge in reinforced ECC (RECC) beams. The plastic hinge lengths of RECC beams, involving rebar yielding zone, concrete crushing zone and curvature localization zone, are found to be much larger than those for reinforced concrete (RC) beams. Based on the above results, parametric studies on the plastic hinge lengths in RECC beams are conducted to study the influences of the tensile\compressive properties of ECC, yielding strength\hardening modulus\ultimate strain of tensile reinforcement, tensile\compressive reinforcement ratio and beam size. This theoretical study has shown that the existing empirical models for RC beams' plastic hinge length are not applicable to RECC beams which exhibit much longer plastic hinge length. A new empirical equation for predicting the plastic hinge lengths of RECC beams is thus proposed.
Neurodevelopmental disorder in children believed to have isolated mild ventriculomegaly prenatally
Authors: Thorup E. , Jensen L. N. , Bak G. S. , Ekelund C. K. , Greisen G. , Jørgensen D. S. , Hellmuth S. G. , Wulff C. , Petersen O. B. , Pedersen L. H. , Tabor A.
Published: August 2018

Objective

To estimate the prevalence of specific neurodevelopmental disorders in children believed to have isolated mild ventriculomegaly (IMV) prenatally in the second trimester of pregnancy, in order to optimize the counseling process.

Methods

This was a nationwide registry‐based study including all singleton pregnancies that had first‐ and second‐trimester ultrasound scans in the period 1st January 2008 to 1st October 2014, identified in the Danish Fetal Medicine Database and local clinical databases in Denmark. All fetuses diagnosed prenatally with IMV (measurement of the atrium of the lateral ventricles, 10.0–15.0 mm) between 18 and 22 weeks' gestation were followed up in national patient registers until the age of 2–7 years. Information was obtained on the diagnoses of intellectual disability, cerebral palsy, autism spectrum disorder, epilepsy and impaired psychomotor development. Neurodevelopmental disorders were compared between those with postnatally confirmed IMV and a reference population of children in the same age range.

Results

Of a cohort of 292 046 fetuses, 133 were found to have apparent IMV on the second‐trimester scan for fetal malformations. In 11 cases, long‐term follow‐up was not possible owing to termination of pregnancy, spontaneous miscarriage, neonatal death or loss to follow‐up. Of the 122 liveborn children followed up until 2–7 years, 15 were identified as having an additional abnormality while 107 were confirmed postnatally to have IMV. Of these 107 children, the diagnosis of a neurodevelopmental disorder was registered in six (5.6%), corresponding to an odds ratio of 2.64 (95% CI, 1.16–6.02), as compared with the reference population. The diagnoses were autism spectrum disorder, epilepsy and impaired psychomotor development. None of these 107 children was diagnosed with intellectual disability or cerebral palsy.

Conclusions

Our results show that a confirmed diagnosis of IMV was associated with an increased risk of a neurodevelopmental disorder, as compared with the reference population, but the absolute risk was low and there were no cases of intellectual disability or cerebral palsy. Copyright © 2018 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.