bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Model averaging in ecology: a review of Bayesian, information‐theoretic, and tactical approaches for predictive inference
Authors: Dormann Carsten F. , Calabrese Justin M. , Guillera‐Arroita Gurutzeta , Matechou Eleni , Bahn Volker , Bartoń Kamil , Beale Colin M. , Ciuti Simone , Elith Jane , Gerstner Katharina , Guelat Jérôme , Keil Petr , Lahoz‐Monfort José J. , Pollock Laura J. , Reineking Björn , Roberts David R. , Schröder Boris , Thuiller Wilfried , Warton David I. , Wintle Brendan A. , Wood Simon N. , Wüest Rafael O. , Hartig Florian
Published: May 2018

In ecology, the true causal structure for a given problem is often not known, and several plausible models and thus model predictions exist. It has been claimed that using weighted averages of these models can reduce prediction error, as well as better reflect model selection uncertainty. These claims, however, are often demonstrated by isolated examples. Analysts must better understand under which conditions model averaging can improve predictions and their uncertainty estimates. Moreover, a large range of different model averaging methods exists, raising the question of how they differ in their behaviour and performance. Here, we review the mathematical foundations of model averaging along with the diversity of approaches available. We explain that the error in model‐averaged predictions depends on each model's predictive bias and variance, as well as the covariance in predictions between models, and uncertainty about model weights. We show that model averaging is particularly useful if the predictive error of contributing model predictions is dominated by variance, and if the covariance between models is low. For noisy data, which predominate in ecology, these conditions will often be met. Many different methods to derive averaging weights exist, from Bayesian over information‐theoretical to cross‐validation optimized and resampling approaches. A general recommendation is difficult, because the performance of methods is often context dependent. Importantly, estimating weights creates some additional uncertainty. As a result, estimated model weights may not always outperform arbitrary fixed weights, such as equal weights for all models. When averaging a set of models with many inadequate models, however, estimating model weights will typically be superior to equal weights. We also investigate the quality of the confidence intervals calculated for model‐averaged predictions, showing that they differ greatly in behaviour and seldom manage to achieve nominal coverage. Our overall recommendations stress the importance of non‐parametric methods such as cross‐validation for a reliable uncertainty quantification of model‐averaged predictions.
From concept to practice to policy: modeling coupled natural and human systems in lake catchments
Authors: Cobourn Kelly M. , Carey Cayelan C. , Boyle Kevin J. , Duffy Christopher , Dugan Hilary A. , Farrell Kaitlin J. , Fitchett Leah , Hanson Paul C. , Hart Julia A. , Henson Virginia Reilly , Hetherington Amy L. , Kemanian Armen R. , Rudstam Lars G. , Shu Lele , Soranno Patricia A. , Sorice Michael G. , Stachelek Jemma , Ward Nicole K. , Weathers Kathleen C. , Weng Weizhe , Zhang Yu
Published: May 2018

Recent debate over the scope of the U.S. Clean Water Act underscores the need to develop a robust body of scientific work that defines the connectivity between freshwater systems and people. Coupled natural and human systems (CNHS) modeling is one tool that can be used to study the complex, reciprocal linkages between human actions and ecosystem processes. Well‐developed CNHS models exist at a conceptual level, but the mapping of these system representations in practice is limited in capturing these feedbacks. This article presents a paired conceptual–empirical methodology for functionally capturing feedbacks between human and natural systems in freshwater lake catchments, from human actions to the ecosystem and from the ecosystem back to human actions. We address extant challenges in CNHS modeling, which arise from differences in disciplinary approach, model structure, and spatiotemporal resolution, to connect a suite of models. In doing so, we create an integrated, multi‐disciplinary tool that captures diverse processes that operate at multiple scales, including land‐management decision‐making, hydrologic‐solute transport, aquatic nutrient cycling, and civic engagement. In this article, we build on this novel framework to advance cross‐disciplinary dialogue to move CNHS lake‐catchment modeling in a systematic direction and, ultimately, provide a foundation for smart decision‐making and policy.
The TSC1‐mTOR‐PLK axis regulates the homeostatic switch from Schwann cell proliferation to myelination in a stage‐specific manner
Authors: Jiang Minqing , Rao Rohit , Wang Jincheng , Wang Jiajia , Xu Lingli , Wu Lai Man , Chan Jonah R. , Wang Huimin , Lu Q. Richard
Published: May 2018

Proper peripheral myelination depends upon the balance between Schwann cell proliferation and differentiation programs. The serine/threonine kinase mTOR integrates various environmental cues to serve as a central regulator of cell growth, metabolism, and function. We report here that tuberous sclerosis complex 1 (TSC1), a negative regulator of mTOR activity, establishes a stage‐dependent program for Schwann cell lineage progression and myelination by controlling cell proliferation and myelin homeostasis. Tsc1 ablation in Schwann cell progenitors in mice resulted in activation of mTOR signaling, and caused over‐proliferation of Schwann cells and blocked their differentiation, leading to hypomyelination. Transcriptome profiling analysis revealed that mTOR activation in Tsc1 mutants resulted in upregulation of a polo‐like kinase (PLK)‐dependent pathway and cell cycle regulators. Attenuation of mTOR or pharmacological inhibition of polo‐like kinases partially rescued hypomyelination caused by Tsc1 loss in the developing peripheral nerves. In contrast, deletion of Tsc1 in mature Schwann cells led to redundant and overgrown myelin sheaths in adult mice. Together, our findings indicate stage‐specific functions for the TSC1‐mTOR‐PLK signaling axis in controlling the transition from proliferation to differentiation and myelin homeostasis during Schwann cell development.
LOgistic File for Robson Classification (LOFIROC) as a practical solution for worldwide practical implementation of the Robson classification
Authors: Petousis Stamatios , Athanasiadis Apostolos
Published: May 2018

The LOgistic File for Robson Classification (LOFIROC) could be a useful tool to achieve worldwide implementation of the Robson classification, the use of which might enable the classification of all caesarean section deliveries.
WEALTH EFFECTS FROM ACQUIRING FAILED THRIFTS SINCE FIRREA
Authors: Madura Jeff , Whyte Ann Marie
Published: May 2018

This study investigates the market reaction to acquisitions of failed thrifts since the passage of the Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery, and Enforcement Act (FIRREA) of 1989. The study also assesses the influence of various factors on the share price response across acquirers. In general, the market reaction to the acquisitions is negative. Cross‐sectional regression analysis reveals that acquisitions are likely to be more beneficial when they reflect industry diversification, a higher degree of government assistance, and less intense bidding for failed target thrifts. Our findings differ from previous studies which have documented a favorable share price response to assisted aquisitions. Apparently, the change in the amount and type of government assistance in the post‐FIRREA period has affected the market reaction. Since the Resolution Trust Corporation controls the government assistance and the intensity of bidding for failed thrifts, its actions have a significant impact on the share price response to acquisitions. The results of the analysis are relevant to potential acquirers of failed thrifts, regulatory agencies, and taxpayers.
IS THE TOKYO SPOT FOREIGN EXCHANGE MARKET CONSISTENT WITH THE EFFICIENT MARKET HYPOTHESIS?
Authors: Lajaunie John P. , Naka Atsuyuki
Published: May 2018

Recent Studies in the area of foreign exchange market efficiency have employed time series analysis to test for the absence of long‐run equilibrium or cointegration relationships among the exchange rates for the major currencies. Cointegration directly violates the weak form of the Efficient Market Hypothesis in a speculative efficient market (Granger, 1986). In this study, we address the efficiency of the Tokyo spot foreign exchange market while updating the test procedures developed by Phillips and Ouliaris (1990), Johansen and Juselius (1990) and Johansen (1991). Cointegration is found to be absent, showing that the Tokyo spot market is consistent with the efficient market hypothesis.
RETURN INTERVAL, FIRM SIZE AND SYSTEMATIC RISK ON THE DUTCH STOCK MARKET
Authors: Corhay Albert , Rad Alireza Tourani
Published: May 2018

In this paper we investigate the behavior of betas of 50 Dutch firms as a function of the return measurement interval. We find beta estimates measured from different intervals differ significantly from each other. As the sample mainly contains stocks that are relatively thin compared to the index, beta estimates from short intervals are on average lower than those obtained from longer intervals. The results further indicate that there exists some variability in the beta coefficients for each interval length. Betas depend on the manner daily prices are juxtaposed to calculate the returns. A way to account for this variability is to average the different betas for each interval length. Asymptotic betas are also computed to show the appropriateness of this method. Finally we show that the size effect is reduced when the interval length is increased, although it remains statistically significant.
TESTING ALTERNATIVE VIEWS OF GOVERNMENT BUDGETING
Authors: Conte Michael A. , Darrat Ali F.
Published: May 2018

We develop three competing models of government budgeting: (1) a rational model, in which government services are provided in accordance with consumer tastes, (2) a Friedman‐type model, in which spending and borrowing decisions derive from the level of taxes, and (3) a Buchanan public‐choice type model, in which the extent of deficit spending determines government spending plans. We use quarterly U.S. data over the period 1947 to 1987 to empirically test each of these models within a vector autoregressive framework, taking into account the potential role of other relevant macro variables. We first specify the testing framework utilizing data on the levels of government revenue, spending and deficit, and show that the resulting estimates are unrealistic. We then divide each of these variables into anticipated and unanticipated components. The results thus obtained reject the Buchanan‐type models, but are unable to reject either a Friedman‐type model or a “weak” form of the rational model. Our results suggest that future research should concentrate on developing appropriate tests capable of distinguishing between these two models of the government budgeting process.
DETERMINANTS OF EARNINGS‐PRICE RATIOS: A REEXAMINATION
Authors: Cho Jang Youn
Published: May 2018

This paper incorporates recent equity valuation theories into the examination of determinants of earnings‐price (E/P) ratios to explain cross‐sectional differences in E/P ratios. The results show that ex ante measures of risk and growth as well as the payout ratio are the main determinants of E/P ratios. The persistence measure is not significantly related to E/P ratios. The results are robust to ordinary least square models as well as to a tobit censored regression.
Biomonitoring of bisphenol A, triclosan and perfluorooctanoic acid in hair samples of children and adults
Authors: Karzi Vasiliki , Tzatzarakis Manolis N. , Vakonaki Elena , Alegakis Thanasis , Katsikantami Ioanna , Sifakis Stavros , Rizos Apostolos , Tsatsakis Aristidis M.
Published: May 2018

Bisphenol A (BPA), triclosan (TCS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) are endocrine disruptors linked with negative health effects such as developmental, reproductive and cardiovascular toxicity. The aim of this study was to determine simultaneously the concentration of BPA, TCS and PFOA in hair from children and adults and examine possible associations between biomonitoring data and age, gender, dietary habits and body mass index. Methanolic extraction was applied and the compounds were determined by liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry. Low levels of exposure to PFOA were detected for children and adults at concentrations below limit of quantification. The mean concentration of BPA in children and adults was 20.6 and 16.6 pg mg−1, while for TCS 275.2 and 687.0 pg mg−1, respectively. Children were highly exposed to BPA relative to adults (P = .011) although adults had greater exposure to TCS (P = .003). Hair from girls had a greater burden of BPA (P = .06) compared to boys. Moreover, higher TCS levels were depicted for females in both examined groups (children P = .200 and adults P = .213) compared to males, but no statistical differences were observed. Significant differences were also observed between age groups (P = .0007) for TCS. No correlations were found between BPA or TCS levels and body mass index or dietary habits for both children and adults. Children have a greater exposure to BPA compared to adults, whereas exposure of adults to TCS seems to be higher than that in children and elderly people. Exposure to BPA occurs mainly via ingestion whereas exposure to TCS mainly via dermal absorption.
Transcriptome analysis of different sizes of 3‐mercaptopropionic acid‐modified cadmium telluride quantum dot‐induced toxic effects reveals immune response in rat hippocampus
Authors: Wu Tianshu , Liang Xue , He Keyu , Wei Tingting , Wang Yan , Zou Lingyue , Lu Jie , Yao Ying , Liu Na , Zhang Ting , Xue Yuying , Tang Meng
Published: May 2018

Recently, the increasing number of bio‐safety assessments on cadmium‐containing quantum dots (QDs) suggested that they could lead to detrimental effects on the central nervous system (CNS) of living organisms, but the underlying action mechanisms are still rarely reported. In this study, whole‐transcriptome sequencing was performed to analyze the changes in genome‐wide gene expression pattern of rat hippocampus after treatments of cadmium telluride (CdTe) QDs with two sizes to understand better the mechanisms of CdTe QDs causing toxic effects in the CNS. We identified 2095 differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Fifty‐five DEGs were between the control and 2.2 nm CdTe QDs, 1180 were between the control and 3.5 nm CdTe QDs and 860 were between the two kinds of CdTe QDs. It seemed that the 3.5 nm CdTe QD exposure might elicit severe effects in the rat hippocampus than 2.2 nm CdTe QDs at the transcriptome level. After bioinformatics analysis, we found that most DEG‐enriched Gene Ontology subcategories and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways were related with the immune system process. For example, the Gene Ontology subcategories included immune response, inflammatory response and T‐cell proliferation; Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways included NOD/Toll‐like receptor signaling pathway, nuclear factor‐κB signaling pathway, tumor necrosis factor signaling pathway, natural killer cell‐mediated cytotoxicity and T/B‐cell receptor signaling pathway. The traditional toxicological examinations confirmed the systemic immune response and CNS inflammation in rats exposed to CdTe QDs. This transcriptome analysis not only revealed the probably molecular mechanisms of CdTe QDs causing neurotoxicity, but also provided references for the further related studies.
Trichloroethylene exposure results in the phosphorylation of histone H2AX in a human hepatic cell line through cytochrome P450 2E1‐mediated oxidative stress
Authors: Toyooka Tatsushi , Yanagiba Yukie , Ibuki Yuko , Wang Rui‐Sheng
Published: May 2018

Trichloroethylene (TCE), a chlorinated hydrocarbon, was recently reclassified as a human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. Genotoxic events are known to be crucial steps in the initiation of cancer. The genotoxic properties of TCE have been examined in many studies using a standard battery of genotoxicity tests both in vitro and in vivo. However, consistent results have not been obtained, and studies investigating the mechanism behind the genotoxicity of this compound are lacking. In the present study, we examined the genotoxicity of TCE by assessing phosphorylated histone H2AX (γ‐H2AX), a new sensitive and reliable marker of DNA damage, in WRL‐68 cells, cultured human hepatocytes and mouse livers. Our results showed that TCE exposure results in the generation of γ‐H2AX, both in vitro and in vivo. By investigating the in vitro mechanism, we found that TCE increases the levels of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and that this increase in ROS levels is attenuated in the presence of disulfiram, a specific cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1) inhibitor. Furthermore, γ‐H2AX induced by TCE was also attenuated by CYP2E1 inhibitors and the antioxidant N‐acetylcysteine. These results suggested that ROS, produced via cytochrome P450 2E1‐mediated metabolic processing, is a major causal factor for γ‐H2AX generation upon exposure to TCE.
Dependency of speckle reduction by wavelength diversity on angular diversity in laser projection system
Authors: Yamada Hirotaka , Moriyasu Kengo , Sato Hiroto , Hatanaka Hidekazu
Published: May 2018

Speckle is one of the most serious problems in laser projection system. Most speckle reduction methods in a laser projector can be categorized into wavelength diversity, angular diversity, and polarization diversity. In order to reduce speckle to the acceptable level, the combination of some or all of these methods are used. When the speckle reduction by wavelength diversity and angular diversity are used at the same time, the total speckle reduction can be different from the product of each speckle reduction effect when each of them is used separately. Here, the theoretical model of speckle reduction by wavelength diversity and angular diversity when they are used at the same time is derived. The calculation results by the theoretical model are compared with the experimental results. It is shown that theoretical calculation agrees well with the experimental results.
The clinical behavior of well differentiated liposarcoma can be extremely variable: A retrospective cohort study at a major sarcoma center
Authors: Keung Emily Z. , Ikoma Naruhiko , Benjamin Robert , Wang Wei‐Lien , Lazar Alexander J. , Feig Barry W.
Published: May 2018

Background

The pathogenesis of well differentiated liposarcoma (WDLPS) is poorly understood and pathologic characterization is often challenging. Descriptive terms (such as sclerosing, myxoid, inflammatory, spindle cell) are frequently encountered in the pathology reports and are of unknown clinical significance.

Methods

Sixty‐two patients with primary retroperitoneal WDLPS resected at our institution were identified (1996‐2011). Pathology reports of surgical resection specimens were retrospectively reviewed and descriptive qualifiers to the WDLPS diagnosis noted.

Results

Descriptive qualifiers were associated with 36 (58%) cases. WDLPS with pathologic qualifiers were more likely to be larger (median size 32 vs 25.5 cm, P = 0.01) and multifocal (36.1 vs 7.7%, P = 0.01) at diagnosis, require concomitant organ resection at surgery (50 vs 23.1%, P = 0.03), and have higher incidence of local recurrence (83.3 vs 38.5%, P < 0.01). WDLPS with pathologic qualifiers showed significantly shorter local recurrence‐free survival (LRFS) and trend towards shorter distant recurrence‐free survival and overall survival. Use of pathologic qualifiers with a WDLPS diagnosis independently predicted risk of worse LRFS.

Conclusions

Retroperitoneal WDLPS tumors characterized by pathologic descriptive qualifiers appear to behave more aggressively than their more typical counterparts. Further investigation is warranted to more consistently characterize and define the pathologic features commonly seen in WDLPS as these may impact patient outcomes.
The association between preoperative serum interleukin‐6 levels and postoperative prognosis in patients with T2 gallbladder cancer
Authors: Wang Jianfa , Liu Jiazhe , Chang Qimeng , Yang Biao , Li Sen , Gu Chao
Published: May 2018

Background

Interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) is closely associated with tumor progression. Whether it can predict postoperative prognosis of patients with T2 gallbladder cancer (GBC) remains controversial.

Methods

We retrospectively collected the medical records of 125 patients with T2 GBC. Then, we analyzed the association between preoperative serum IL‐6 levels and postoperative survival by multivariate Cox analyses and Kaplan‐Meier curves in exploratory subgroups.

Results

Predictive effects of serum IL‐6 levels on overall survival were similar across most of the evaluated subgroups, except in different tumor location subgroups. The independent odds ratio (OR) of serum IL‐6 levels was 2.57 (95%CI 1.73‐3.82) in the hepatic side subgroup, while it was 1.15 (95%CI 0.68‐1.93) in the peritoneal side subgroup (P = 0.014 for interaction). When we categorized serum IL‐6 levels by median value (4.2 pg/mL), the 5‐year survival rate of patients with high serum IL‐6 levels was significantly higher in the hepatic side subgroup (58.5% vs 14.8%, P < 0.001), but no such difference was found in the peritoneal side subgroup (62.2% vs 67.6%, P = 0.722).

Conclusions

Preoperative serum IL‐6 is significantly associated with prognostic implications in patients with hepatic side T2 GBC, not in those with peritoneal side tumors.
Photoinduced Reversible Morphological Transformation of Azobenzene‐Containing Pseudo‐2D Polymers
Authors: Li Zili , Tang Miao , Jiang Chen , Bai Ruke , Bai Wei
Published: May 2018

2D polymer sheets containing azobenzene are successfully prepared by a facile strategy of “2D self‐assembly polymerization (2DSP)” via free radical polymerization in solution. A bola amphiphile containing azobenzene as a novel monomer is designed and synthesized. The results indicate that single‐layer covalent pseudo‐2D polymers on a micrometer scale are obtained after polymerization with vinyl monomers. Moreover, the 2D polymer sheets are highly sensitive to UV light due to incorporation of azobenzene groups into the polymer. Upon alternative irradiation with UV and visible light, the morphological transformation between sheets and rolled‐up nanotubes can be achieved based on the reversible trans‐to‐cis photoisomerization of azobenzene units in the 2D polymer sheets.
A taxonomy and cultural analysis of intra‐hospital patient transfers
Authors: Rosenberg Alana , Campbell Britton Meredith , Feder Shelli , Minges Karl , Hodshon Beth , Chaudhry Sarwat I. , Jenq Grace Y. , Emerson Beth L.
Published: May 2018

Existing research on intra‐hospital patient transitions focuses chiefly on handoffs, or exchanges of information, between clinicians. Less is known about patient transfers within hospitals, which include but extend beyond the exchange of information. Using participant observations and interviews at a 1,541‐bed, academic, tertiary medical center, we explored the ways in which staff define and understand patient transfers between units. We conducted observations of staff (n = 16) working in four hospital departments and interviewed staff (n = 29) involved in transfers to general medicine floors from either the Emergency Department or the Medical Intensive Care Unit between February and September 2015. The collected data allowed us to understand transfers in the context of several hospital cultural microsystems. Decisions were made through the lens of the specific unit identity to which staff felt they belonged; staff actively strategized to manage workload; and empty beds were treated as a scarce commodity. Staff concepts informed the development of a taxonomy of intra‐hospital transfers that includes five categories of activity: disposition, or determining the right floor and bed for the patient; notification to sending and receiving staff of patient assignment, departure and arrival; preparation to send and receive the patient; communication between sending and receiving units; and coordination to ensure that transfer components occur in a timely and seamless manner. This taxonomy widens the study of intra‐hospital patient transfers from a communication activity to a complex cultural phenomenon with several categories of activity and views them as part of multidimensional hospital culture, as constructed and understood by staff.
A multifaceted approach towards interpreting early life experience and infant feeding practices in the ancient Atacama Desert, Northern Chile
Authors: King C. L. , Snoddy A. M. , Millard A. R. , Gröcke D. R. , Standen V. G. , Arriaza B. T. , Halcrow S. E.
Published: May 2018

Interpreting early life experience in the past is of considerable interest to archaeologists, yet remains fraught with difficulty. Children are sensitive barometers of population health in general. In addition, infant feeding practices, and stresses experienced during infancy and childhood, have important effects on adult health and demographic changes. Understanding how diet and physiological stress interact is therefore of significance, but most bony indicators of stress have non‐specific etiologies that cannot be tied to events during childhood. The recent advent of incremental isotopic techniques means we now have the potential to identify periods of stress and dietary change during childhood through changes to stable carbon and nitrogen isotopic ratios during tissue formation. Being able to establish these individual weaning trajectories allows us to consider individuality in past weaning choices, giving the bioarchaeologist a more nuanced picture of the past. Here, we investigate whether combining paleopathological and isotopic data can give insight into the synergy between infant feeding and stress. We present a case study of a 5‐year‐old child from an early agricultural period archaeological site in the northern Atacama Desert, Chile. We show that, despite physiological stress likely affecting isotopic ratios in this individual, a weaning curve is visible and the interpretation of weaning behaviour is possible. In addition, we suggest that there is isotopic evidence for a micronutrient deficient weaning diet that may be correlated with bony evidence for pathology.
An ST2‐dependent role of bone marrow‐derived group 2 innate lymphoid cells in pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Zhao Yuyue , De Los Santos Francina Gonzalez , Wu Zhe , Liu Tianju , Phan Sem H
Published: May 2018

Recent evidence supports that bone marrow (BM)‐derived hematopoietic progenitor cells play an important role in lung injury and fibrosis. While these cells give rise to multiple cell types, the ST2 (Il1rl1)‐expressing group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s) derived from BM progenitors have been implicated in tissue repair and remodeling, including in lung fibrosis. To further investigate the precise role of BM‐derived ILC2s in the pathogenesis of fibrotic lung disease, their importance in the bleomycin‐induced lung fibrosis model was evaluated by analyzing the effects of selective ST2 deficiency in the BM compartment. The results showed that while ST2‐sufficient control mice exhibited activation of lung IL‐33/ST2 signaling, ILC2 recruitment, IL‐13 induction, and fibrosis, these responses were significantly diminished in ST2‐deficient‐BM chimera mice, with selective loss of ST2 expression only in the BM. This diminished response to bleomycin was similar to that seen in ST2 global knockout mice, suggesting the predominant importance of ST2 from the BM compartment. In wild‐type mice, ILC2 recruitment to the lung was accompanied by a concomitant decrease in ST2+ BM cells. ST2‐deficient BM cells were unresponsive to IL‐33‐induced ILC2 maturation. Finally, lineage‐negative wild‐type, but not ST2‐deficient BM cells from bleomycin‐treated mice stimulated lung fibroblast type I collagen expression, which was associated with elevated TGFβ expression in the BM cells. Taken together, these findings suggested that the BM‐derived ILC2s were recruited to fibrotic lung through the IL‐33/ST2 pathway, and contributed to fibroblast activation to promote lung fibrosis. Copyright © 2018 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Randomized web‐based physical activity intervention in adolescent survivors of childhood cancer
Authors: Howell Carrie R. , Krull Kevin R. , Partin Robyn E. , Kadan‐Lottick Nina S. , Robison Leslie L. , Hudson Melissa M. , Ness Kirsten K.
Published: May 2018

Background

Healthy lifestyle choices, including participation in regular physical activity, may improve health outcomes in survivors of childhood cancer. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a web‐delivered physical activity intervention among adolescent survivors to increase moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and improve fitness and neurocognitive and health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) over 24 weeks.

Procedure

This randomized controlled trial was conducted among survivors (aged ≥11 to <15 years) treated at a single institution. Participants were randomized to either a physical activity intervention delivered over the internet or a control group. The intervention group received educational materials, an activity monitor, and access to an interactive website designed to motivate increased physical activity via rewards; the control group received an activity monitor and educational materials. Physical activity, fitness, and neurocognitive and HRQoL outcomes were assessed at baseline and at 24 weeks. Mean changes were compared between groups using paired t‐tests.

Results

Of the 97 survivors enrolled, 78 completed the study; the mean age was 12.7 (standard deviation 1.1), 80% were White, and 55.1% were female. Fifty‐three survivors were assigned to the intervention and 25 to the control group. While survivors in the intervention group increased, and those in the control group decreased (4.7 ± 119.9 vs. –24.3 ± 89.7 min) weekly MVPA, this difference was not significant (P = 0.30). However, hand grip strength, number of sit‐ups and pushups, neurocognitive function, and HRQoL outcomes improved in the intervention, but not in the control group.

Conclusions

An interactive, rewards‐based intervention designed to increase MVPA is feasible in adolescent survivors of childhood cancer.
Successful reduced‐intensity conditioning hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria with aplastic anemia in two children
Authors: Andolina Jeffrey R. , Reinish Ariel L. , Akhtar Razia , Noronha Suzie , Shand Jessica C. , Girvin Angela , Korones David N. , Bruckner Lauren B. , Mullen Craig A. , Curran Kevin J. , Boulad Farid
Published: May 2018

Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) is an extremely rare cause of bone marrow failure in children. We report two children who presented with pancytopenia, and were diagnosed with PNH with severe aplastic anemia. Both children underwent upfront, successful hematopoietic stem cell transplantation with reduced‐intensity conditioning. One patient had a syngeneic donor, and one patient had a 10/10 matched unrelated donor. Neither patient developed graft versus host disease, infections, or recurrent PNH. Reduced‐intensity conditioning hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is a reasonable therapy for PNH with marrow failure in children.
Reversible plasticity shape memory effect in carbon nanotube/epoxy nanocomposites: Shape recovery studies for torsional and bending deformations
Authors: Abishera R. , Velmurugan R. , Nagendra Gopal K. V.
Published: May 2018

Thermally activated shape memory polymers (SMP) are typically programmed by initially heating the material above the glass transition temperature (Tg), deforming to the desired shape, cooling below Tg and unloading to fix the temporary shape. Though this approach is employed in small‐scale applications, the process of deforming at high temperatures becomes a time, labor, and energy expensive process while applying to large structures (e.g. deployable space structures). The reversible plasticity shape memory (RPSM) property provides an alternate programming approach wherein the material is plastically deformed to a temporary shape at temperatures well below the transition temperature, preferably at room temperature. This paper aims to study the advantages of RPSM programming under bending and torsional deformations in multi‐walled carbon‐nanotube (MWCNT) reinforced epoxy nanocomposites. The samples are characterized for their thermal, morphological, and mechanical properties. The shape recovery behavior under various deformation modes is studied in detail. The effect of deformation level, relaxation time, and thermo‐mechanical cycles are also studied. All samples show excellent shape memory properties under all deformation modes and programming conditions. As a result, it is demonstrated that the RPSM programming can be used as an effective and a simplified alternative to conventional shape memory programming. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 58:E189–E198, 2018. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Physical coloring of multilayered polymeric structures
Authors: Mizrahi Dagan Maayan , Naveh Naum
Published: May 2018

Multilayered polymer structures made of two transparent, hyperelastic thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPUs) have been studied. The sheets, made by co‐extrusion and layer multiplication techniques, exhibited “physical coloring”, where a preferred wavelength range was reflected and visualized, due to the refractive index difference and nanometric thicknesses of the alternating layers. The extrusion system comprises two extruders and a series of multiplying units, each doubling the number of layers, such that 12 multiplying units render 212 + 1+1 (= 8,193) layers. For a 0.8 mm‐thick die, the resulting layers after die swell are ∼ 150 nm thick. The extrusion temperatures of both grades were adjusted to equilibrate the viscosities and thus stabilize the layers. TPUs are highly elastic, and large stretching ratios allow for significant reduction in thickness. Physical coloring developed in a controlled, reversible manner. The visual color correlates with elongation, and can be offset by choice of initial thickness. Both reflected and transmitted wavelengths change throughout the whole visible range. A model was developed to fit the reflectance data, by introducing a “stress–volume coefficient” due to volume changes during stretch. This model fits the data very well. Characterization by AFM and TEM showed few discontinuous layers and some defects in the structure, nevertheless the multilayer structure is demonstrated. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 59:112–119, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
In situ Synthesized Energetic Salts Based on the C−N Fused Tricyclic 3,9‐Diamine‐6,7‐Dihydro‐Bis(triazolo)‐Tetrazepine Cation: A Family of High‐Performance Energetic Materials
Authors: Xu Yuangang , Zhu Zhongqin , Shen Cheng , Lin Qiuhan , Lu Ming
Published: May 2018

A new family of 3,9‐diamino‐6,7‐dihydro‐5H‐bis([1,2,4]triazolo)[4,3‐e : 3′,4′‐g][1,2,4,5]tetrazepine‐2,10‐diium salts was explored as fused tricyclic triazole based energetic materials. These salts and their fused cations were constructed by in situ synthesis with 4,4′,5,5′‐tetraamino‐3,3′‐bi‐1,2,4‐triazole as the raw material. All of the new compounds were fully characterized by elemental analysis, IR spectroscopy, 1H, 13C, and (in some cases) 15N NMR spectroscopy, and thermal analysis. The structures of five salts were confirmed by single‐crystal X‐ray analysis. Computational studies associated with heats of formation and detonation properties were performed by using Gaussian 09 and EXPLO5 v6.01 programs, respectively. The desired fused tricyclic energetic salts (especially for 4 and 5, d: 1.85‐1.92 g cm−3; D: 8622–8942 m s−1; P: 34.61‐37.38 GPa) display interesting thermal behaviour and are predicted to be high‐performance energetic materials.
Functional and evolutionary analysis of viral proteins containing a Rossmann‐like fold
Authors: Medvedev Kirill E. , Kinch Lisa N. , Grishin Nick V.
Published: May 2018

Viruses are the most abundant life form and infect practically all organisms. Consequently, these obligate parasites are a major cause of human suffering and economic loss. Rossmann‐like fold is the most populated fold among α/β‐folds in the Protein Data Bank and proteins containing Rossmann‐like fold constitute 22% of all known proteins 3D structures. Thus, analysis of viral proteins containing Rossmann‐like domains could provide an understanding of viral biology and evolution as well as could propose possible targets for antiviral therapy. We provide functional and evolutionary analysis of viral proteins containing a Rossmann‐like fold found in the evolutionary classification of protein domains (ECOD) database developed in our lab. We identified 81 protein families of bacterial, archeal, and eukaryotic viruses in light of their evolution‐based ECOD classification and Pfam taxonomy. We defined their functional significance using enzymatic EC number assignments as well as domain‐level family annotations.
Structure and properties of AB21, a novel Agaricus bisporus protein with structural relation to bacterial pore‐forming toxins
Authors: Komárek Jan , Ivanov Kavková Eva , Houser Josef , Horáčková Aneta , Ždánská Jitka , Demo Gabriel , Wimmerová Michaela
Published: May 2018

We report the characterization of the dimeric protein AB21 from Agaricus bisporus, one of the most commonly and widely consumed mushrooms in the world. The protein shares no significant sequence similarity with any protein of known function, and it is the first characterized member of its protein family. The coding sequence of the ab21 gene was determined and the protein was expressed in E. coli in a recombinant form. We demonstrated a high thermal and pH stability of AB21 and proved the weak affinity of the protein to divalent ions of some transition metals (nickel, zinc, cadmium, and cobalt). The reported crystallographic structure exhibits an interesting rod‐like helical bundle fold with structural similarity to bacterial toxins of the ClyA superfamily. By immunostaining, we demonstrated an abundance of AB21 in the fruiting bodies of A. bisporus.
Synthesis and Structural Diversity of Main Group Metal Coordination Complexes Constructed from V‐Shape Bis(3‐methyl‐1H‐pyrazole‐4‐carboxylic acid)alkane Ligands
Authors: Cheng Meiling , Bao Jinting , Wu Yujuan , Yang Bingxin , Wang Qinghua , Sun Lin , Liu Qi
Published: May 2018

Reaction of H2L1/H2L2/H2L3 with corresponding main group metal salts generated five complexes, [Mg(L1)(phen)(H2O)3]⋅5H2O (1, mononuclear), [Sr(CH3OH)(L1)2Sr(H2O)2]2n⋅nH2O (2, 2D), [Ba(L2)(H2O)3]n (3, 2D), [Pb(L2)(2,2′‐bpy)]2n⋅9nH2O (4, 1D) and [Pb(L3)(phen)]2⋅2DMF (5, dinuclear) (H2L1=1,1'‐methylenebis(5‐methyl‐pyrazole‐4‐carboxylic acid, H2L2 = 2'‐methylenebis(3‐methyl‐pyrazole‐4‐carboxylic acid, H2L3=1,1'‐methylenebis(3‐methyl‐pyrazole‐4‐carboxylic acid; 2,2’‐bpy=2,2′‐bpyridine and phen=1,10‐phenanthroline). In the zwitterionic complex 1, a loop‐loop water‐water hydrogen bonded chain presented in the 3D supramolecular network, which was constructed by π⋅⋅⋅π interactions and hydrogen bonds. In CPs 2 and 3, the 1D inorganic M–O–M connectivity was built from Sr2O16 and BaO9 polyhedra, respectively. The similar 24‐membered Pb2(L2)2/Pb2(L3)2 macrocycle occurred in both 1D polymer 4 and dinuclear complex 5, with two 2,2’‐bpy molecules located inside or two phen molecules outside each macrocycle respectively. The thermal and photoluminescent properties of 1–5 in the solid state have also been investigated.
A Relativistic DFT Probe of Thorium and Protactinium Complexes Supported by Heterocalix[4]arene and Redox Properties of Early‐Middle Actinides
Authors: Bi Yan‐Ting , Bao Zhe , Li Li , Shen Zhong‐Hui , Pan Qing‐Jiang
Published: May 2018

Thorium and protactinium complexes of trans‐calix[2]benzene[2]pyrrolide (H2L) have been examined using a relativistic density functional theory, where the metal center has +IV and +III oxidation states and is saturated by a borohydride donor. Good agreement in geometry parameters has been achieved for the thorium(VI) complex compared with its experimentally obtained analogue. Three types of conformers, labeled as (ArL)(Anm)(2HB), (ArL)(Anm)(3HB) and (PlL)(Anm)(3HB) (An=Th and Pa, m=VI and III), are energetically favored for each complex. The first and last configurations are found to be the most stable for tri‐ and tetravalent complexes, respectively. Intriguing δ(An−Ar) bonding(s) are revealed for trivalent complexes (ArL)(AnIII)(2HB); and (PlL)(PaIV)(3HB) has a Pa(5f)‐dominated HOMO, while (PlL)(ThIV)(3HB) displays a 5f06d07s0 electronic configuration. Exothermic process was calculated for reactions starting from actinide borohydride sources and various macrocyclic ligands. From a thermodynamic perspective, this provides synthetically accessible possibility of these complexes. The mechanism of reducing tetra‐ to trivalent actinide complexes has been proposed. Reduction potentials were calculated to follow the order of Th < Pa < U < Np < Pu, which well reproduces reported results of aquo AnVI/AnIII ions.
Potential alkali silica reaction expansion mitigation of ferronickel slag aggregate by fly ash
Authors: Saha Ashish K. , Sarker Prabir K.
Published: May 2018

This study investigates the potential alkali silica reaction (ASR) of ferronickel slag (FNS) aggregate, which is a by‐product of nickel production. A class F fly ash was used as a possible ASR mitigation in accelerated mortar bar test (AMBT) specimens containing 50% FNS. There were visible surface cracks on the specimens using no fly ash or 10% fly ash. Use of 20% fly ash reduced expansion by 45% as compared to that with 10% fly ash. In accordance with the expansion limits of Australian Standard, the mixtures using 20 and 30% fly ash were categorized as slowly reactive and nonreactive, respectively. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and microstructural observations confirmed the effectiveness of fly ash in reducing Portlandite content that reduced the ASR expansion. Therefore, the use of 20–30% fly ash as cement replacement is considered as an adequate ASR mitigating measure of FNS fine aggregate.
Integrating carbon dioxide removal into EU climate policy: Prospects for a paradigm shift
Authors: Geden Oliver , Scott Vivian , Palmer James
Published: May 2018

Scenarios meeting the Paris Agreement's temperature targets envisage a major and imminent deployment of technologies to remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, of which there has been almost no practical implementation to date. Here we explore the political dimensions and policy implications of expectations for “negative emissions” in the European Union (EU), considering its largely successful leadership role in mitigation action and corresponding low‐carbon technology development and deployment. Carbon dioxide removal and especially Bio‐Energy with Carbon Capture and Storage present significant challenges to the EU's dominant climate policy paradigm and low‐carbon policy experience. Considering this challenge, we assess expectations for widespread implementation of carbon dioxide removal in the EU to be unrealistic, and explore possible pathways for its more limited introduction.

This article is categorized under:

Policy and Governance > Multilevel and Transnational Climate Change Governance

The Carbon Economy and Climate Mitigation > Policies, Instruments, Lifestyles, Behavior
Behavioral responses of three lemur species to different food enrichment devices
Authors: Shapiro Morgan E. , Shapiro Hannah G. , Ehmke Erin E.
Published: May 2018

Environmental enrichment is a tool used to promote the welfare and well‐being of captive animals by encouraging the display of species‐specific behaviors and reducing the stress or boredom induced by captive environments. Lemurs are highly endangered, yet few studies have analyzed the behavioral impacts of enrichment on captive populations. We studied the impacts of two novel enrichment devices on three lemur species (ring‐tailed lemurs [Lemur catta], red‐ruffed lemurs [Varecia rubra], and Coquerel's sifaka [Propithecus coquereli]) to determine both the overall and species‐specific impacts of enrichment on lemur behavior. We recorded lemur behavior using the continuous sampling method to obtain behavior duration and analyzed our results using ANOVA Repeated Measures. Results showed enrichment effectiveness differed for each species and that different enrichment devices had varying impacts on lemur behavior across all species. We attributed the differences in species‐specific responses to the unique locomotor patterns and methods of diet acquisition of each species, and the variances in behavioral responses across all species to the characteristics of each device. Our study highlights the importance of species‐specific enrichment and encourages further research in this field in order to maximize the positive effects of enrichment, which in turn has the potential to affect the overall well‐being of captive populations.
Yangian symmetry for bi-scalar loop amplitudes
Authors: Chicherin Dmitry , Kazakov Vladimir , Loebbert Florian , Müller Dennis , Zhong De-liang
Published: May 2018

Abstract

We establish an all-loop conformal Yangian symmetry for the full set of planar amplitudes in the recently proposed integrable bi-scalar field theory in four dimensions. This chiral theory is a particular double scaling limit ofγ-twisted weakly coupled$$ \mathcal{N}=4 $$N=4SYM theory. Each amplitude with a certain order of scalar particles is given by a single fishnet Feynman graph of disc topology cut out of a regular square lattice. The Yangian can be realized by the action of a product of Lax operators with a specific sequence of inhomogeneity parameters on the boundary of the disc. Based on this observation, the Yangian generators of level one for generic bi-scalar amplitudes are explicitly constructed. Finally, we comment on the relation to the dual conformal symmetry of these scattering amplitudes.
Recurrent Penile Fracture—Case Report and Alternative Surgical Approach
Authors: Nascimento Bruno , Guglielmetti Giuliano B. , Miranda Eduardo P. , Ivanovic Renato F. , Batagello Carlos A. , Nahas William C. , Srougi Miguel , Cury José
Published: May 2018

Introduction

Penile refracture is an exceedingly rare event, with very few published studies. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first documented case in the literature of penile fracture with 3 same-site recurrences.

Aims

To describe the case of a 25-year-old Caucasian man with recurrent penile fracture ultimately treated with resuture and patch reinforcement.

Methods

Patient history (clinical and surgical) and literature review.

Results

After the 3rd same-site recurrence, patch reinforcement over the sutured area was performed. The patient had an uneventful recovery and no recurrences to date.

Conclusion

There is no evidence indicating the superiority of non-absorbable sutures. Bovine pericardium reinforcement over the sutured area was used to minimize the chance of another recurrence. More studies are necessary to investigate its safety and efficacy in this scenario.