bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A note on measuring natural selection on principal component scores
Authors: Chong Veronica K. , Fung Hannah F. , Stinchcombe John R.
Published: June 2018

Measuring natural selection through the use of multiple regression has transformed our understanding of selection, although the methods used remain sensitive to the effects of multicollinearity due to highly correlated traits. While measuring selection on principal component (PC) scores is an apparent solution to this challenge, this approach has been heavily criticized due to difficulties in interpretation and relating PC axes back to the original traits. We describe and illustrate how to transform selection gradients for PC scores back into selection gradients for the original traits, addressing issues of multicollinearity and biological interpretation. In addition to reducing multicollinearity, we suggest that this method may have promise for measuring selection on high-dimensional data such as volatiles or gene expression traits. We demonstrate this approach with empirical data and examples from the literature, highlighting how selection estimates for PC scores can be interpreted while reducing the consequences of multicollinearity
Chromium speciation in the sediments across the oxygen minimum zone, western continental margin of India
Authors: Chakraborty Parthasarathi , Jayachandran Saranya , Chakraborty Sucharita
Published: June 2018

This study suggests that varying concentration of dissolved oxygen of overlying bottom water influences geochemical fractionation, speciation, and oxidation state of sedimentary Cr in a marine system. The nature of sedimentary organic matter (labile or nonlabile) and Fe speciation also controls the geochemical fractionation and oxidation state of Cr in the sediment from the continental margin across the oxygen minimum zone of the Arabian Sea. Increasing concentration of sedimentary organic matter (under hypoxic conditions) increased association of Cr with sedimentary organic binding phases. The association of Cr with Fe‐Mn‐oxyhydroxide phase gradually decreased with decreasing dissolved oxygen concentration due to the reduction and dissolution of Fe (III). The sedimentary organic matter was found to be the major hosting phase for Cr (VI) in the shelf sediments. The decrease in sedimentary Fe (III) concentration under hypoxic conditions also prevented Cr (VI) reduction. This study suggests that the type of sedimentary organic matter and Fe (III) concentration may influence benthic exchange fluxes of Cr under variable redox conditions in many coastal/margin systems.
Do environmental factors drive obesity? Evidence from international graduate students
Authors: Katare Bhagyashree , Beatty Timothy K. M.
Published: June 2018

International students offer a unique window into the role environmental factors play in driving obesity. Naïve estimates of the relationship between environmental factors and obesity are often plagued by reverse causation, sample selection, and omitted variable bias. In this study, we survey international students at 40 public universities across the United States. We use this unique data to link the weight gain of international students to the prevalence of obesity where they live. We argue that our estimates are less likely to be biased as international students have limited control over the environment to which they are exposed upon arrival in the United States. We find that students living in areas with a higher prevalence of obesity show a biologically important and statistically significantly greater increase in weight as compared to those living in areas with a lower prevalence of obesity. Results provide cautious evidence that environmental characteristics of a region can affect the weight gain of individuals.
Identifying latent profiles in work‐to‐family conflict and family‐to‐work conflict
Authors: Lee Yunsoo
Published: June 2018

From the perspective of a person‐centered approach, the purpose of this study is to identify and analyze latent profiles of employees according to the employees' levels of work‐to‐family conflict (WFC) and family‐to‐work conflict using latent‐profile analysis. This study utilized work, family, and health study (WFHS) data compiled from 823 employees at select Fortune 500 information technology (IT) companies. The data were examined using multinomial logistic regression analysis to determine whether individuals could be grouped into certain profiles according to their demographic characteristics. The group differences in the outcome variables of the WFC were also considered using the analysis of variance technique. The results suggest that HR/HRD professionals should consider how various types and intensities of conflicts combine to influence employees and should deploy this information when designing strategies and interventions to reduce WFCs.
Challenges facing sub‐Saharan small‐scale farmers in accessing farming information through mobile phones: A systematic literature review
Authors: Misaki Ezra , Apiola Mikko , Gaiani Silvia , Tedre Matti
Published: June 2018

The use of mobile phone technology has increasingly been advocated to assist small‐scale farmers. Accordingly, numerous studies have been conducted on the impact, effectiveness, user's attitude, assessment, empowerment, and the potential use of mobile phone technology in agriculture. This study explores the challenges that small‐scale farmers in sub‐Saharan Africa face when using a mobile phone technology in crop farming projects and proposes areas for future improvement. The study used a systematic literature search conducted by authors at 3 levels, in which 134 studies initially identified were then narrowed to 11. These 11 studies generated 7 projects that use specialized applications in a farming value chain. The findings from the study indicate some of the challenges faced by small‐scale farmers, including the lack of their involvement in the initial phase of the invention process. Other obstacles include low trust and transparency, inappropriate use of foreign language (English) in a local cultural context, bureaucracy, and theft of mobile phones. On the basis of these results, the authors conclude that there are generalized factors for understanding deficiencies experienced by small‐scale farmers, which ought to be understood by all crop farming stakeholders. These factors can be used by software engineers to design future technologies beneficial to small‐scale farmers.
TGF‐β Initiates β‐Catenin‐Mediated CTGF Secretory Pathway in Old Bovine Nucleus Pulposus Cells: A Potential Mechanism for Intervertebral Disc Degeneration
Authors: Wu Qiuqian , Mathers Chun , Wang Ernest W , Sheng Sen , Wenkert David , Huang Jason H
Published: June 2018

We have recently demonstrated that overexpression of Smurf2 under the control of type II collagen alpha 1 (Col2a1) promoter induces an intervertebral disc degeneration phenotype in Col2a1‐Smurf2 transgenic mice. The chondrocyte‐like cells that express type II collagen and Smurf2 in the transgenic mouse discs are prone to degenerate. However, how the chondrocyte‐like cells contribute to disc degeneration is not known. Here, we utilized primary old bovine nucleus pulposus (NP) cells as substitutes for the chondrocyte‐like cells in Col2a1‐Smurf2 transgenic mouse discs to identify mechanism. We found that 35% of the cells were senescent; TGF‐β treatment of the cells induced a rapid moderate accumulation of β‐catenin, which interacted with connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2) in the cytoplasm and recruited it to the membrane for secretion. The TGF‐β‐initiated β‐catenin‐mediated CTGF secretory cascade did not occur in primary young bovine NP cells; however, when Smurf2 was overexpressed in young bovine NP cells, the cells became senescent and allowed this cascade to occur. These results suggest that Smurf2‐induced disc degeneration in Col2a1‐Smurf2 transgenic mice occurs through activation of CTGF secretory pathway in senescent disc cells. © 2018 The Authors JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Molecular study of Cw/Cx antigens and frequency of Rh phenotypes in southeast Brazilian blood donors
Authors: Costa Sidneia S. , Souza Silva Thamy C. , Chiba Akemi Kuroda , Cruz Bruno R. , Langhi Junior Dante Mário , Bordin José O.
Published: June 2018

Background

The Cw (RH:8), Cx (RH:9), and MAR (RH:51) antigens are encoded by alleles at the Cc locus of the Rh system, where Cw and Cx are considered low‐frequency antigens and antithetical to the high‐frequency antigen MAR. The frequency of Cw (RH:8) is approximately 2% in Caucasians, 1% in Black people, 4% in Finns, and 9% in Latvians. The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of RhD+ phenotypes in a population of southeast Brazilian blood donors and to perform a molecular study to distinguish the RHCE*Ce.08.01 and RHCE*Ce.09 alleles, responsible for the Cw and Cx expressions, respectively.

Methods

We investigated 11,536 RhD+ Brazilian blood donors. All samples were phenotyped for D, C, c, E, e, and Cw. In the Cw+ samples, a molecular analysis was performed to detect the nucleotide substitutions A122G and G106A, which determine the Cw and Cx antigens, respectively.

Results

Cw antigen was found in 110 (0.95%) samples in the following phenotypes: DCwe/dCwe (72/0.62%), DCwe/DCwe (30/0.26%), and DCwe/DCwE (8/0.07%). Among 110 Cw+ samples, 108 showed the A122G nucleotide substitution associated with RHCE*Ce.08.01 allele and 2 samples the G106A substitution associated with the RHCE*Ce.09.01 allele.

Conclusion

This study showed the prevalence of the RhD+ phenotype in the Brazilian population, and that through the molecular study, it was possible to differentiate the RHCE*Ce.08.01 and RHCE*Ce.09.01 alleles. The phenotype frequency was similar from Black people (1%) and different from Caucasians, Finns, and Latvians.
Recent developments in heterocycle labeling with carbon isotopes
Authors: Del Vecchio Antonio , Destro Gianluca , Taran Frédéric , Audisio Davide
Published: June 2018

Heterocycles play an essential role in modern pharmaceutical and agrochemical developments, representing a very common structural unit in marketed drugs. Over the 46 new drugs approved in 2017 by the FDA, 25 contain in their structure a heterocyclic core. The development of novel and straightforward labeling strategies for the effective insertion of carbon isotopes into heterocylic scaffolds is an inspiring and vibrant field of research. The use of carbon‐11, carbon‐13, and carbon‐14 isotopes is well established in life science and particularly in pharmaceutical and agrochemical industry. Their introduction into small organic molecules represents a crucial step for the radiochemists. Because the labeling should occur in metabolically stable positions and in the shortest synthetic route, their incorporation into the heterocycles represents a viable solution. This review summarizes recent contributions to this area of research through the analysis of different industrial and academic cases.
Manifestations of systemic diseases and conditions that affect the periodontal attachment apparatus: Case definitions and diagnostic considerations
Authors: Albandar Jasim M. , Susin Cristiano , Hughes Francis J.
Published: June 2018

Objectives

This review proposes case definitions and diagnostic considerations of systemic disorders and conditions that affect the periodontal attachment apparatus.

Importance

Periodontal diseases and certain systemic disorders share similar genetic and/or environmental etiological factors, and affected patients may show manifestations of both diseases. Characterizing these diseases and the nature of the association between them could have important diagnostic value and therapeutic implications for patients.

Findings

Numerous systemic disorders and certain medications can affect the periodontal attachment apparatus and cause loss of periodontal attachment and alveolar bone. Although many of these disorders are rare or uncommon, they often cause significant loss of periodontal tissue by influencing periodontal inflammation or through mechanisms distinct from periodontitis. Most of these disorders are due to innate mechanisms and some are acquired via environmental factors or lifestyle. Several disorders affect periodontal inflammation through alterations in the host immune response to periodontal infection; others cause defects in the gingiva or periodontal connective tissue, instigate metabolic changes in the host that affect various tissues of the periodontal apparatus, or operate by other mechanisms. For some systemic disorders that are more common, their contribution to the loss of periodontal tissue is modest, while for others, contribution is not supported by clear evidence. Few systemic medications are associated with increased loss of periodontal tissue, and these are typically medications used in the treatment of malignancies.

Conclusions

This review identifies systemic diseases and conditions that can affect the periodontal attachment apparatus and cause loss of periodontal supporting tissues and, where possible, presents case definitions for these. Many of these diseases are associated with a profound loss of periodontal attachment and alveolar bone, and for some of these disorders the periodontal manifestations may be among the first signs of the disease. These case definitions may be useful in the early diagnosis of these diseases and may contribute to an improvement in the management of periodontal manifestations and improve the quality of life for these patients.
Dental plaque–induced gingival conditions
Authors: Murakami Shinya , Mealey Brian L. , Mariotti Angelo , Chapple Iain L.C.
Published: June 2018

Objective

This review proposes revisions to the current classification system for gingival diseases and provides a rationale for how it differs from the 1999 classification system.

Importance

Gingival inflammation in response to bacterial plaque accumulation (microbial biofilms) is considered the key risk factor for the onset of periodontitis. Thus, control of gingival inflammation is essential for the primary prevention of periodontitis.

Findings

The clinical characteristics common to dental plaque–induced inflammatory gingival conditions include: a) clinical signs and symptoms of inflammation that are confined to the gingiva: b) reversibility of the inflammation by removing or disrupting the biofilm; c) the presence of a high bacterial plaque burden to initiate the inflammation; d) systemic modifying factors (e.g., hormones, systemic disorders, drugs) which can alter the severity of the plaque‐induced inflammation and; e) stable (i.e., non‐changing) attachment levels on a periodontium which may or may not have experienced a loss of attachment or alveolar bone. The simplified taxonomy of gingival conditions includes: 1) introduction of the term “incipient gingivitis;” 2) a description of the extent and severity of gingival inflammation; 3) a description of the extent and severity of gingival enlargement and; 4) a reduction of categories in the dental plaque–induced gingival disease taxonomy.

Conclusions

Dental plaque–induced gingival inflammation is modified by various systemic and oral factors. The appropriate intervention is crucial for the prevention of periodontitis.
Age‐dependent distribution of periodontitis in two countries: Findings from NHANES 2009 to 2014 and SHIP‐TREND 2008 to 2012
Authors: Billings Monisha , Holtfreter Birte , Papapanou Panos N. , Mitnik Gabriela Lopez , Kocher Thomas , Dye Bruce A.
Published: June 2018

Objective

We used epidemiologic data of clinical periodontal status from two population‐based samples in two countries, United States and Germany, to examine 1) the impact of age on the relative contribution of recession and pocketing on the distribution of clinical attachment loss, and 2) whether it is feasible to define age‐dependent thresholds for severe periodontitis.

Methods

The analytical sample was based on persons aged ≥30 and included 10,713 individuals in the United States, participants in NHANES 2009 to 2014, and 3,071 individuals in Pomerania, Germany, participants in the SHIP‐Trend 2008 to 2012. NHANES used a full‐mouth examination protocol to collect data on recession (R), pocket depth (PD) and clinical attachment loss (CAL) for six sites/tooth on a maximum of 28 teeth; SHIP‐Trend used a half‐mouth examination at four sites/tooth. In both samples, percentile distributions of mean CAL/person were generated for each 5‐year age interval. Age‐dependent thresholds defining the upper quintile of mean CAL were calculated for both samples. The topographic intraoral distribution of CAL and the relative contribution of R and PD on CAL was assessed.

Results

Mean CAL increased linearly with age in both samples and was higher in SHIP‐Trend than NHANES across the age spectrum. In contrast, mean PD was constant across age groups in both populations. R contributed increasingly to CAL with age, especially after 45 to 49 years. Upper quintile mean CAL thresholds in NHANES were < 3 mm for ages up to 39 years, and under 3.58 mm in all other age groups. Corresponding values in SHIP‐Trend were also < 3 mm in ages up to 39 years but increased linearly with age up to 7.21 mm for ages ≥75 years.

Conclusions

Despite substantial differences in the overall severity of attachment loss between the two samples, common patterns of CAL and of the relative contribution of R and PD to CAL with increasing age were identified. Although periodontitis severity may vary in different populations, empirical evidence‐driven definitions of CAL thresholds signifying disproportionate severity of periodontitis by age are feasible.
Spark plasma sintering preparation of reference targets for field spectroscopy on Mars
Authors: Montagnac G. , Dromart G. , Beck P. , Mercier F. , Reynard B. , Cousin A. , Maurice S. , Wiens R.
Published: June 2018

We propose spark plasma sintering (SPS) as a technique to prepare reference targets for Raman and other spectroscopy instruments involved in future space missions and more generally in‐field work. We have tested the effect of SPS on different international standards that are available in the form of minerals and rocks powders. Advantages and potential issues of SPS were considered by analyzing the Raman signal and mechanical properties of the sintered targets. The shape is well controlled; the rupture toughness is enhanced, and the homogeneous distribution of the mineral phases is verified. A suite of calibration targets has thus been implemented for the SuperCam instrument on the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Mars 2020 rover, and SPS may be preferred for future missions as well.
Effects of feeding strategies during lactation and the inclusion of quebracho in the fattening on performance and carcass traits in light lambs
Authors: Lobón Sandra , Blanco Mireia , Sanz Albina , Ripoll Guillermo , Joy Margalida
Published: June 2018

BACKGROUND

The interest for grazing systems and the use of condensed tannins (CTs) as sources of natural antioxidants in animal diets has been increasing in recent years. The objective was to study the animal performance and carcass quality of the lambs according to the feeding strategy during lactation (indoors, grazing alfalfa, grazing sainfoin) and the inclusion of quebracho as a source of CTs (50 g kg−1) in the fattening concentrate.

RESULTS

The feeding strategy during lactation only had effects on carcass quality. Indoor lambs had a greater dressing percentage and deposition of kidney fat than sainfoin and alfalfa lambs. The kidney fat of sainfoin‐ and alfalfa‐fed lambs had a greater yellowness, chroma and carotenoid content than the fat of indoor‐fed lambs (P < 0.05), whereas the subcutaneous fat colour was not affected by the feeding during lactation. The use of fat colour to trace the feeding strategy was assessed and found insufficiently accurate to implement its use.

The inclusion of 50 g kg−1 quebracho in the concentrate fed during the fattening period increased lamb weight gains and feed intake but had little effect on the carcass characteristics.

CONCLUSIONS

The feeding strategies during lactation had an effect on the carcass characteristics, highlighting the importance of the dam's diet during this period. The inclusion of quebracho in the lamb's concentrate had minor effects. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Molecularly imprinted covalent organic polymers for the selective extraction of benzoxazole fluorescent whitening agents from food samples
Authors: Ding Hui , Wang Rongyu , Wang Xiao , Ji Wenhua
Published: June 2018

Molecularly imprinted covalent organic polymers were constructed by an imine‐linking reaction between 1,3,5‐triformylphloroglucinol and 2,6‐diaminopyridine and used for the selective solid‐phase extraction of benzoxazole fluorescent whitening agents from food samples. Binding experiments showed that imprinting sites on molecularly imprinted polymers had higher selectivity for targets compared with those of the corresponding non‐imprinted polymers. Parameters affecting the solid‐phase extraction procedure were examined. Under optimal conditions, actual samples were treated and the eluent was analyzed with high‐performance liquid chromatography with diode‐array detection. The results showed that the established method has a wide linearity, satisfactory detection limits and quantification limits, and acceptable recoveries. Thus, this developed method possesses the practical potential for the selective determination of benzoxazole fluorescent whitening agents in complex food samples.
Response surface and group additivity methodology for estimation of thermodynamic properties of organosilanes
Authors: Janbazi H. , Hasemann O. , Schulz C. , Kempf A. , Wlokas I. , Peukert S.
Published: June 2018

Group additivity methods simplify the determination of thermodynamic properties of a wide range of chemically related species involved in detailed reaction schemes. In this paper, we expand Benson's group additivity method to organosilanes. Based on quantum‐chemical calculations, the thermodynamic data of 22 stable silicon‐organic species are calculated, presented in the form of NASA polynomials, and compared to the available experimental data. Based on this theoretical database, a complete set of 24 Si‐ and C‐atom‐centered, single‐bonded and nonradical group additivity values for enthalpy of formation, standard entropy, and heat capacity at temperatures from 200 to 4000 K is derived through unweighted multivariate linear regression.
Land use/land cover change and it's impacts on diurnal temperature range over the agricultural pastoral ecotone of Northern China
Authors: Wei Baocheng , Xie Yaowen , Jia Xu , Wang Xiaoyun , He Hongjie , Xue Xiaoyu
Published: June 2018

The agricultural pastoral ecotone of Northern China (APENC), as a fragile ecological zone, has experienced dramatic land use/land cover changes (LULCC) owing to intensive human disturbances. The understanding of the impacts of LULCC on climate, especially the diurnal temperature range (DTR), is not sufficient in this region. The spatio‐temporal processes of LULCC and its impacts on DTR were quantitatively analyzed, using the Terra/Aqua MODIS data (MYD11A2 and MCD12Q1, 2003–2013), on the premise of eliminating or weakening the effects of background climate. Results showed that the areas of croplands, forests, and waterbody increased with the annual rate of 2.84%, 0.95%, and 8.2%, respectively, whereas grasslands and bare land decreased with the annual rate of 0.69% and 7.32%, and built‐up remained quite stable during the period of 2003–2013. The annual changing rate of LULC for 2008–2013 was nearly 2.84 times the value for 2003–2008. In general, LULC contributed to a decline of DTR over the whole APENC both at monthly/seasonal timescale. Croplands, forests, and mutual transformation between croplands and grasslands tended to decrease daytime maximum temperature (Tmax), resulting in a decline of DTR. The grasslands could reduce the DTR by decreasing Tmax and increasing nighttime minimum temperature (Tmin). By contrast, the conversion of grasslands into forests tended to increase Tmax and decrease Tmin, thus a rise of DTR for winter, summer, and autumn had observed. These results can assist land resource development and relevant policies making in APENC.
Construction of coastline shelterbelts and assessment of their environmental effects in Yuyao, China
Authors: Shan Qihua , Zhang Jianfeng , Sun Shiyong , Chen Guangcai , Zhang Handan , Shen Liming
Published: June 2018

There is 18,000 km of coastline in China. It is extremely important to construct coastal shelterbelts as they have a unique and irreplaceable role in the prevention and mitigation of natural disasters and in maintaining the ecological balance of coastal regions. A coastal shelterbelt was constructed near Yuyao City, Zhejiang Province, and three plots (wasteland, farmland, and forest) were studied to investigate the effects of environmental factors on the diversity of herbaceous plants. The environmental benefits were analyzed by field surveys and soil sampling. A total of 31 species from 30 genera and 14 families of halophyte and salt‐tolerant grasses were found in the survey area. The wasteland included 21 species from 20 genera and 9 families, whereas the shelterbelt forest had 19 species from 19 genera and 8 families, with Poaceae and Asteraceae dominating. Moreover, the Sørensen coefficient for the shelterbelt forest and wasteland was 65 and that for the shelterbelt forest and farmland was 55.56. Additionally, the salinity decreased from 0.52% to 0.02% after 2 years, similar to the value for farmland that has been cultivated for decades. The organic matter content increased from 5.1 to 9.5 g/kg, and the total nitrogen content increased from 0.34 to 0.47 g/kg. We concluded that coastline shelterbelts could be successfully established on the muddy coast. With coastline shelterbelts growing, the structure and diversity of herbaceous plants were affected, and the soil conditions were improved. Therefore, the construction of shelterbelt forest would improve the coastal landscape and enhance soil properties, accelerating the succession of herbaceous plants.
Establishing a land degradation neutrality national baseline through trend analysis of GIMMS NDVI Time‐series
Authors: Gichenje Helene , Godinho Sérgio
Published: June 2018

The land degradation‐neutrality (LDN) national baseline for Kenya in 2015 was established in terms of the three LDN indicators (land cover, land productivity, and carbon stocks), and using trends in GIMMS NDVI and land cover datasets over the 24‐year period from 1992 to 2015. Human‐induced land degradation was separated from degradation driven by climate factors using soil moisture data and the residual trend method. On the basis of Kendall's tau of the NDVI residuals computed using annual mean data of the NDVI and soil moisture relationship, the country has experienced persistent negative trends (browning) over 21.6% of the country, and persistent positive trends (greening) in 8.9% of the country. The land cover change map for the period 1992–2015 showed that in 5.6% of the area there was a change from one land cover class to another. Pronounced changes in terms of land area were the increase in grasslands by 12,171 km2, the decrease of bare land by 9,877 km2, and the decrease in forests by 7,182 km2. Browning and greening trends account for 13% and 12%, respectively, of the land cover change areas. By establishing the LDN national baseline, the LDN concept is now operational. As a first step, targeted field level assessments, alongside the collection of data for the computation of soil organic carbon stocks, should be undertaken in selected browning, greening, and land cover change sites. These field studies will provide decision makers with key information on how to plan for the implementation and monitoring of LDN interventions.
Effects of land‐use changes on runoff and sediment yield: Implications for soil conservation and forest management in Xishuangbanna, Southwest China
Authors: Zhu Xiai , Liu Wenjie , Jiang Xiao Jin , Wang Pingyuan , Li Weixia
Published: June 2018

Effects of vegetation traits and soil physical properties on runoff and sediment yield were investigated under different land uses in Xishuangbanna, Southwest China. The cutting‐ring method was applied, and field plot experiments were conducted to determine soil physical properties and monitor runoff and sediment yield in response to land‐use change by comparing tropical rainforest (TR), rubber monoculture (Rm), and four rubber‐based agroforestry systems. Results showed that conversion of tropical forest to rubber resulted in lower leaf area index (LAI), canopy cover, less litter, and an unfavorable soil environment (i.e., high bulk density [BD], low porosity, etc.). The runoff from the Rm was 33.2‐ and 2.6‐ times higher than the TR and the rubber‐based agroforestry systems, respectively. In general, sediment yield from the TR, Rm, and agroforestry systems was 0.041, 11.54, and 2.73 t ha−1, respectively. These trends suggested that the forest conversion caused negative hydrological consequences (i.e., excessive runoff and sediment yield). Compared with the Rm, rubber‐based agroforestry systems could more effectively reduce runoff volume and sediment yield. Overall, the sediment yield were significantly negatively correlated with LAI, canopy cover, stand litter, and saturated water capacity, while positively correlated with BD and runoff. The effects of precipitation on the sediment yield of agroforestry systems in this region became less important due to their partly improved soil conditions and vegetation traits. Solely from the point of erosion control, we recommend that local governments and farmers should consider intercropping Flemingia macrophylla and Theobroma cacao tree species within Rm plantations.
Docking of Covalent Ligands: Challenges and Approaches
Authors: Sotriffer Christoph
Published: June 2018

Covalent ligands have recently regained considerable attention in drug discovery. The rational design of such ligands, however, is still faced with particular challenges, mostly related to the fact that covalent bond formation is a quantum mechanical phenomenon which cannot adequately be handled by the force fields or empirical approaches typically used for noncovalent protein‐ligand interactions. Although the necessity for quantum chemical approaches is clear, they cannot yet routinely be applied on large data sets of ligands or for a broader exploration of binding modes in docking calculations. On the other hand, technical solutions for performing docking calculations with covalent ligands are available, but their scope is normally quite limited. Scoring functions typically neglect the contribution from covalent bond formation completely. In this situation, the question arises how to approach covalent ligands and which methods to choose for their docking and design.
The CZEch Mental health Study (CZEMS): Study rationale, design, and methods
Authors: Winkler Petr , Formánek Tomáš , Mladá Karolína , Cermakova Pavla
Published: June 2018

Objectives

The CZEch Mental health Study (CZEMS) was launched to inform the ongoing mental health care reform. This paper describes rationale, methods, and the plan for the future analyses of this project.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey on a representative sample of the general adult noninstitutionalized population of the Czech Republic was conducted. Two‐stage sampling was utilized and respondents were interviewed by centrally trained staff using a paper and pencil interviewing. The presence of mental disorders was assessed by The Mini‐International Neuropsychiatric Interview. The study also collected information about disability, self‐identification of having a mental illness, medical history, and help‐seeking behaviour.

Results

This survey had a 75% response rate, and the final sample consisted of 3,306 persons aged from 18 to 96 years (mean age 49 years old, 54% women) that were interviewed in their homes. The final sample is representative for the Czech Republic in terms of age, gender, education, and region.

Conclusions

CZEMS will provide up‐to‐date evidence about a prevalence of mental disorders in the Czech Republic, associated disability, and treatment gap. This will help informed decision‐making about the current mental health care reform and future mental health care development in the Czech Republic.
Age and gender stratified normative values for the International Prostate Symptom Score for adults aged 60 years and over
Authors: Booth Lorna , Skelton Dawn A. , Hagen Suzanne , Booth Joanne
Published: June 2018

Aims

To identify age and gender stratified normative values for the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) for older community‐living adults.

Methods

Secondary analysis of data from a large cohort study produced norms presented as means, standard deviations, medians, ranges, and percentile scores. Non‐parametric analyses were conducted to investigate the effect that demographic variables, smoking status and comorbidity had on the severity of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS) as measured by the IPSS.

Results

Data from a total of 1103 survey respondents of community‐living men and women aged between 60 and 99 years in the UK were analyzed. Normal ranges for the IPSS (as indicated by the median and 25th to 75th percentiles) were within the mild and low moderate LUTS categories of the IPSS, irrespective of age or gender. Age, gender, co‐habitant status, and comorbidity had an effect on LUTS severity with comorbidity being the best predictor of IPSS scores.

Conclusion

This study has provided IPSS normative values for an older UK adult population aged 60‐99 years. These normative values can be used by researchers and practitioners for peer comparison making the individual's IPSS score more meaningful. Presenting the normative values suggests that some mild symptoms may be described as “normal.” It may also help to combat the perception that poor bladder health is an inevitable part of aging, as all norms in the current study fell into either mild or low moderate symptom categories.
Size‐adaptable 13‐channel receive array for brain MRI in human neonates at 3 T
Authors: Lopez Rios Nibardo , Foias Alexandru , Lodygensky Gregory , Dehaes Mathieu , Cohen‐Adad Julien
Published: June 2018

Neonatal brain injury suffered by preterm infants and newborns with some medical conditions can cause significant neurodevelopmental disabilities. MRI is a preferred method to detect these accidents and perform in vivo evaluation of the brain. However, the commercial availability and optimality of receive coils for the neonatal brain is limited, which in many cases leads to images lacking in quality. As extensively demonstrated, receive arrays closely positioned around the scanned part provide images with high signal‐to‐noise ratios (SNRs). The present work proposes a pneumatic‐based MRI receive array that can physically adapt to infant head dimensions from 27‐week premature to 1.5 months old. Average SNR increases of up to 68% in the head region and 122% in the cortex region, compared with a 32‐channel commercial head coil, were achieved at 3 T. The consistent SNR distribution obtained through the complete coil size range, specifically in the cortex, allows the acquisition of images with similar quality across a range of head dimensions, which is not possible with fixed‐size coils due to the variable coil‐to‐head distance. The risks associated with mechanical pressure on the neonatal head are minimal and the head motion is restricted. The method could be used in coil designs for other age groups, body parts and subjects.
Bacteria, Bones, and Stones: Managing Complications of Short Bowel Syndrome
Authors: Johnson Erika , Vu Long , Matarese Laura E.
Published: June 2018

Short bowel syndrome (SBS) occurs in patients who have had extensive resection. The primary physiologic consequence is malabsorption, resulting in fluid and electrolyte abnormalities and malnutrition. Nutrient digestion, absorption, and assimilation may also be diminished by disturbances in the production of bile acids and digestive enzymes. Small bowel dilation, dysmotility, loss of ileocecal valve, and anatomical changes combined with acid suppression and antimotility drugs increase the risk of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, further contributing to malabsorption. Metabolic changes that occur in SBS due to loss of colonic regulation of gastric and small bowel function can also lead to depletion of calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D, resulting in demineralization of bone and the eventual development of bone disease. Persistent inflammation, steroid use, parenteral nutrition, chronic metabolic acidosis, and renal insufficiency may exacerbate the problem and contribute to the development of osteoporosis. Multiple factors increase the risk of nephrolithiasis in SBS. In the setting of fat malabsorption, increased free fatty acids are available to bind to calcium, resulting in an increased concentration of unbound oxalate, which is readily absorbed across the colonic mucosa where it travels to the kidney. In addition, there is an increase in colonic permeability to oxalate stemming from the effects of unabsorbed bile salts. The risk of nephrolithiasis is compounded by volume depletion, metabolic acidosis, and hypomagnesemia, resulting in a decrease in renal perfusion, urine output, pH, and citrate excretion. This review examines the causes and treatments of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, bone demineralization, and nephrolithiasis in SBS.
Facile synthesis of poly[1‐p (tolylsulfonyl) pyrrole] via Ce (IV)‐pyrrole redox initiating system and polyacrylonitrile blended nanofibers
Authors: Ismar Ezgi , Sarac A. Sezai
Published: June 2018

Chemical polymerization of monomers of electroactive polymers and their processability have some challenges. Chemical polymerization of 1‐p‐(tolylsulfonyl) pyrrole has been realized first time by using Ce (IV)‐pyrrole redox initiating system to obtain poly (1‐p‐[tolylsulfonyl)pyrrole]. Moreover, the achieved polymer was used as a precursor for electrospinning, and their solutions with DMF were used to fabricate nano and submicron fibers via electrospinning method. Polymerization conditions were followed with UV–visible spectroscopy. Surface morphologies were examined with scanning electron microscopy, and elemental analysis measurements were obtained via scanning electron microscopy/energy‐dispersive X‐ray. Attenuated total reflection spectroscopy was used to record the characteristic peaks of the nanofiber webs before and after polymerization. Surface morphology of the polymer domains was examined with atomic force microscopy. Inherently conductive polymer, poly (1‐p‐[tolylsulfonyl)pyrrole] was successfully combined with the PAN and were fabricated to obtain nanofiber webs.
Microstructure and viscoelasticity of electrorheological suspensions with hybrid core‐shell microspheres
Authors: Krzton‐Maziopa Anna , Oratowska Joanna , Zukowska Grazyna , Plocharski Janusz
Published: June 2018

A novel type of electrorheological (ER) fluids with hybrid microspheres as dispersed phases was prepared and their rheological properties in dynamic and oscillatory modes in the presence of electric field were studied. Hybrid microspheres are new types of inorganic‐organic composites consisting of inorganic hollow cores covered with a thin layer of conjugated polymer poly (3‐octylthiophene)—P3OT, followed by a polyurethane electrolyte shell of defined thicknesses and controlled (electronic and ionic) conductivities. It has been found that the rate of ER response for the applied electric field of the order of few kV/mm, as well as the recovery time after high shear loads of the novel ER fluids, was significantly improved in comparison to the typical solid electrolyte‐based materials. It has been shown that upon the application of an electric field the suspensions of hybrid microspheres form a gel‐like network structure at low strain region with reasonable rigidity characterized by the domination of G′ moduli over G″ and broad linear viscoelastic range. It was shown that at electric fields as high as 3 kV/mm, the investigated ER materials exhibited predominantly elastic behavior and were able to endure strains up to 3% without significant deformation of the material microstructure. Moreover, the novel ER materials exhibited much faster microstructure recovery after high shear loads in comparison to ER fluids comprising core‐shell composites without poly (3‐octylthiophene) interlayer, which makes them more suitable for the applications requiring immediate response to an external electric field.
Study on properties of flame‐retardant cyanate esters modified with DOPO and triazine compounds
Authors: Chen Xi , Wang Jun , Huo Siqi , Yang Shuang , Zhang Bin , Cai Haopeng
Published: June 2018

Ternary flame‐retardant modified cyanate ester blends (CEPG and CEPA) are formed by combining triazine compounds (TGIC or TAIC) and 9,10‐dihydro‐9‐oxa‐10‐phosphaphenanthrene‐10‐oxide with cyanate ester resin. The curing behaviors, thermal and mechanical properties, and the flame‐retardant properties are investigated. The results show that the CEPG and CEPA blends result in lower curing temperatures and glass transition temperatures than those of neat CE. Both of CEPG and CEPA blends significantly improve the flame‐retardant properties of CE resins, and UL‐94V‐0 rate is achieved for CEPG‐1.0 and CEPA‐0.5. The dielectric constant and loss of CEPA blends are lower than those of CEPG blend with the same phosphors content, and both of them are lower than those of neat CE. Therefore, the ternary flame‐retardant modified cyanate ester blends provide 2 ways for composites of producing printed circuit board with high flame‐retardant property and low dielectric constant and loss.
Second‐trimester maternal serum screening for fetal Down syndrome: As a screening test for hemoglobin Bart's disease: A prospective population‐based study
Authors: Wanapirak Chanane , Piyamomgkol Wirawit , Sirichotiyakul Supatra , Tongprasert Fuanglada , Srisupundit Kasemsri , Luewan Suchaya , Traisrisilp Kuntharee , Jatavan Phudit , Tongsong Theera
Published: June 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to determine the effectiveness of second‐trimester maternal serum screening for Down syndrome as a screening test for fetal hemoglobin (Hb) Bart's disease among an unselected population.

Methods

A secondary analysis of a large prospective database (20 254 pregnancies) was conducted to compare the levels of maternal serum screening, alpha‐fetoprotein (AFP), free beta‐human chorionic gonadotropin, and unconjugated estriol between pregnancies with Hb Bart's disease and unaffected pregnancies.

Results

The median AFP levels were much higher among affected fetuses (1.96 vs 1.12 multiple of the median; P < .001), yielding a sensitivity of 81.6% and specificity of 86.4%. Thus, AFP measurement is effective in predicting fetal Hb Bart's disease among an unselected population when using a cutoff value of 1.5 multiple of the median. The serum free beta‐human chorionic gonadotropin levels were slightly, but significantly, higher in the affected pregnancies, while the serum unconjugated estriol levels were minimally, but significantly, lower among the affected pregnancies.

Conclusion

Second‐trimester maternal serum AFP levels were significantly elevated in cases of fetal Hb Bart's disease. Pregnancies with unexplained elevated serum AFP levels in areas of high prevalence of Hb Bart's disease should always undergo a detailed ultrasound examination to detect any early signs of fetal anemia before development of hydrops fetalis.
Does sharing good news buffer fear of bad news? A daily diary study of fear of cancer recurrence in couples approaching the first mammogram post‐diagnosis
Authors: Soriano Emily C. , Perndorfer Christine , Otto Amy K. , Siegel Scott D. , Laurenceau Jean‐Philippe
Published: June 2018

Objective

The core of fear of cancer recurrence (FCR)—a top concern of couples after successful breast cancer (BC) treatment—is fear of death. Daily relationship processes may be instrumental in regulating FCR as triggers of existential distress are encountered. We tested the hypothesis that daily capitalization, the process of sharing good news (capitalization attempts) to a partner perceived as responsive (responsiveness), buffers patient and spouse FCR as they confront the first mammogram post‐diagnosis.

Methods

Fifty‐seven early‐stage BC survivors and their spouses reported daily FCR, capitalization, and positivity of the disclosed event during a 3‐week diary period beginning 2 weeks before the first annual mammogram post‐diagnosis. Dyadic multilevel path models estimated within‐person effects of patient and spouse capitalization on same‐day FCR, controlling for event positivity.

Results

Before the mammogram, capitalization attempts were unrelated to FCR, but for patients, responsiveness was predictive of greater same‐day FCR. After the mammogram, for both partners, attempts were predictive of greater same‐day FCR, yet responsiveness was predictive of lower FCR.

Conclusions

Findings were largely inconsistent with the hypothesis that capitalization buffers existential distress. However, results revealed novel insights about daily dyadic processes that may characterize within‐person adaptation to existential threat. Potential explanations for the differential links between capitalization and FCR based on timing (before versus after threat) and capitalization component (attempts versus responsiveness) are discussed.
Cystic fibrosis year in review 2017
Authors: Savant Adrienne P. , McColley Susanna A.
Published: June 2018

In this article, we highlight cystic fibrosis (CF) reports published in Pediatric Pulmonology during 2017. We also include articles from a variety of journals that are related or are of special interest to clinicians.
The G protein–coupled estrogen receptor agonist, G‐1, attenuates BK channel activation in cerebral arterial smooth muscle cells
Authors: Evanson Kirk W. , Goldsmith Jacob A. , Ghosh Payal , Delp Michael D.
Published: June 2018

The G protein–coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) is a significant modulator of arterial contractility and blood flow. The GPER‐specific activator, G‐1, has been widely used to characterize GPER function in a variety of tissue types. Large conductance, calcium (Ca2+)‐activated K+ (BK) channels are sensitive to 17β‐estradiol (17β‐E2) and estrogenic compounds (e.g., tamoxifen, ICI 182 780) that target estrogen receptors. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of G‐1 on BK channel activation and function in cerebral arterial myocytes. Inside‐out and perforated patch clamp were utilized to assess the effects of G‐1 (50 nmol·L−1‐5 μmol·L−1) on BK channel activation and currents in cerebral arterial myocytes. Pressurized artery myography was used to investigate the effects of G‐1 on vasodilatory response and BK channel function of cerebral resistance size arteries. G‐1 reduced BK channel activation in cerebral arterial myocytes through elevations in BK channel mean close times. Depressed BK channel activation following G‐1 application resulted in attenuated physiological BK currents (transient BK currents). G‐1 elicited vasodilation, but reduced BK channel function, in pressurized, endothelium‐denuded cerebral arteries. These data suggest that G‐1 directly suppresses BK channel activation and currents in cerebral arterial myocytes, BK channels being critically important in the regulation of myocyte membrane potential and arterial contractility. Thus, GPER‐mediated vasodilation using G‐1 to activate the receptor may underestimate the physiological function and relevance of GPER in the cardiovascular system.