bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Capacity for Preferences:Respecting Patients with Compromised Decision‐Making
Authors: Wasserman Jason Adam , Navin Mark Christopher
Published: May 2018

When a patient lacks decision‐making capacity, then according to standard clinical ethics practice in the United States, the health care team should seek guidance from a surrogate decision‐maker, either previously selected by the patient or appointed by the courts. If there are no surrogates willing or able to exercise substituted judgment, then the team is to choose interventions that promote a patient's best interests. We argue that, even when there is input from a surrogate, patient preferences should be an additional source of guidance for decisions about patients who lack decision‐making capacity.

Our proposal builds on other efforts to help patients who lack decision‐making capacity provide input into decisions about their care. For example, “supported,” “assisted,” or “guided” decision‐making models reflect a commitment to humanistic patient engagement and create a more supportive process for patients, families, and health care teams. But often, they are supportive processes for guiding a patient toward a decision that the surrogate or team believes to be in the patient's medical best interests. Another approach holds that taking seriously the preferences of such a patient can help surrogates develop a better account of what the patient's treatment choices would have been if the patient had retained decision‐making capacity; the surrogate then must try to integrate features of the patient's formerly rational self with the preferences of the patient's currently compromised self. Patients who lack decision‐making capacity are well served by these efforts to solicit and use their preferences to promote best interests or to craft would‐be autonomous patient images for use by surrogates. However, we go further: the moral reasons for valuing the preferences of patients without decision‐making capacity are not reducible to either best‐interests or (surrogate) autonomy considerations but can be grounded in the values of liberty and respect for persons. This has important consequences for treatment decisions involving these vulnerable patients.
Risk‐neutral moment‐based estimation of affine option pricing models
Authors: Feunou Bruno , Okou Cédric
Published: May 2018

This paper provides a novel methodology for estimating option pricing models based on risk‐neutral moments. We synthesize the distribution extracted from a panel of option prices and exploit linear relationships between risk‐neutral cumulants and latent factors within the continuous time affine stochastic volatility framework. We find that fitting the Andersen et al. (Journal of Financial Economics, 2015, 117(3), 558–584) option valuation model to risk‐neutral moments captures the bulk of the information in option prices. Our estimation strategy is effective, easy to implement, and robust, as it allows for a direct linear filtering of the latent factors and a quasi‐maximum likelihood estimation of model parameters. From a practical perspective, employing risk‐neutral moments instead of option prices also helps circumvent several sources of numerical errors and substantially lessens the computational burden inherent in working with a large panel of option contracts.
Identification of a novel long noncoding RNA that promotes osteoblast differentiation
Authors: Nardocci Gino , Carrasco Margarita E. , Acevedo Elvis , Hodar Christian , Meneses Claudio , Montecino Martín
Published: May 2018

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a heterogeneous class of transcripts, longer than 200 nucleotides, 5′‐capped, polyadenylated, and poorly conserved among mammalian species. Several studies have shown the contribution of lncRNAs to different cellular processes, including regulation of the chromatin structure, control of messenger RNA translation, regulation of gene transcription, regulation of embryonic pluripotency, and differentiation. Although limited numbers of functional lncRNAs have been identified so far, the immense regulatory potential of these RNAs is already evident, indicating that a functional characterization of lncRNAs is needed. In this study, mouse preosteoblastic cells were induced to differentiate into osteoblasts. At 3 sequential differentiation stages, total RNA was isolated and libraries were constructed for Illumina sequencing. The resulting sequences were aligned and transcript abundances were determined. New lncRNA candidates that displayed differential expression patterns during osteoblast differentiation were identified by combining bioinformatics and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction analyses. Among these, lncRNA‐1 that exhibited increased expression during osteogenesis and was downregulated during myogenesis. Importantly, knockdown of lncRNA‐1 expression in primary mouse preosteoblasts was found to inhibit osteogenic differentiation, reflected by a reduced transcription of the Runx2/p57 and Sp7 bone master genes. Together, our results indicate that lncRNA‐1 represents a new regulatory RNA that plays a relevant role during the early stages of osteogenesis.
Interaction of CacyBP/SIP with NPM1 and its influence on NPM1 localization and function in oxidative stress
Authors: Rosińska Sara , Filipek Anna
Published: May 2018

Calcyclin (S100A6) binding protein/Siah‐1 interacting protein (CacyBP/SIP) is mainly a cytoplasmic protein; however, some literature data suggested its presence in the nucleus. In this work we examined more precisely the nuclear localization and function of CacyBP/SIP. By applying mass spectrometry, we have identified several nuclear proteins, among them is nucleophosmin (NPM1), that may interact with CacyBP/SIP. Subsequent assays revealed that CacyBP/SIP forms complexes with NPM1 in the cell and that the interaction between these two proteins is direct. Interestingly, although CacyBP/SIP exhibits phosphatase activity, we have found that its overexpression favors phosphorylation of NPM1 on S125. In turn, the RNA immunoprecipitation assay indicated that the altered CacyBP/SIP level has an impact on the amount of 28S and 18S rRNA bound to NPM1. The overexpression of CacyBP/SIP resulted in a significant increase in the binding of 28S and 18S rRNA to NPM1, whereas silencing of CacyBP/SIP expression decreased 28S rRNA binding and had no effect on the binding of 18S rRNA. Further studies have shown that under oxidative stress, CacyBP/SIP overexpression alters NPM1 distribution in cell nuclei. In addition, staining for a nucleolar marker, fibrillarin, revealed that CacyBP/SIP is indispensable for maintaining the nucleolar structure. These results are in agreement with data obtained by western blot analysis, which show that upon oxidative stress the NPM1 level decreases but that CacyBP/SIP overexpression counteracts the effect of stress. Altogether, our results show for the first time that CacyBP/SIP binds to and affects the properties of a nuclear protein, NPM1, and that it is indispensable for preserving the structure of nucleoli under oxidative stress.
Temperature fluctuations and maternal estrogens as critical factors for understanding temperature‐dependent sex determination in nature
Authors: Bowden Rachel M. , Paitz Ryan T.
Published: May 2018

Vertebrates with temperature‐dependent sex determination (TSD) have justifiably received a lot of attention when it comes to the potential effects of climate change. Freshwater turtles have long been used to characterize the physiological and genetic mechanisms underlying TSD and provide a great system to investigate how changing climatic conditions will affect vertebrates with TSD. Unfortunately, most of what we know about the mechanisms underlying TSD comes from laboratory conditions that do not accurately mimic natural conditions (i.e., constant incubation temperatures and supraphysiological steroid manipulations). In this paper, we review recent advances in our understanding of how TSD operates in nature that arose from studies using more natural fluctuating incubation temperatures and natural variation in maternal estrogens within the yolk. By incorporating more natural conditions into laboratory studies, we are better able to use these studies to predict how changing climatic conditions will affect species with TSD.
Factors associated with appointment non‐attendance at a medical imaging department in regional Australia: a retrospective cohort analysis
Authors: Mander Gordon T. W. , Reynolds Lorraine , Cook Aiden , Kwan Marcella M.
Published: May 2018

Introduction

Appointment non‐attendance contributes added cost to the healthcare sector through wasted resource allocations. Medical imaging departments commonly schedule appointments for most modalities; however, no study has quantified patient attendance rates in the Australian regional setting. This is despite evidence that regional, rural and remote Australians tend to demonstrate poorer health than metropolitan counterparts. This study aims to identify the factors that influence appointment non‐attendance at a teaching hospital in regional Australia.

Methods

Categories restricted to age, gender, indigenous status, distance from investigation site, referral source and imaging modality were collected for all appointments (N = 13,458) referred to the medical imaging department in 2015. The likelihood of each of these factors correlating with a patient not attending a scheduled appointment was calculated using the chi‐squared analysis and binary logistic regression.

Results

Gender, indigenous status as well as specific imaging modalities, referral sources and age categories were significantly associated with non‐attendance. Overall, male patients were 1.57 (P < 0.001) times more likely to miss a scheduled appointment than female patients. Patients who identified as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander were 2.66 (P < 0.001) times more likely to miss a scheduled appointment than patients who did not identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander.

Conclusions

Several key factors appear to affect medical imaging appointment non‐attendance. Key factors include indigenous status, gender, image modality, referral source and age. Further improvement is required to better meet the needs of underrepresented patient demographics.
Preparation of Environmentally Friendly Amino Acid‐Based Anionic Surfactants and Characterization of Their Interfacial Properties for Detergent Products Formulation
Authors: Yea DaNan , Lee SuMin , Jo SeonHui , Yu HyonPil , Lim JongChoo
Published: May 2018

In this study, 2 types of amino acid‐based biosurfactants such as potassium cocoyl glycinate (CGK) and sodium cocoyl glycinate (CGN) were synthesized from coconut oil. Their chemical structures were identified using FT‐IR, 1H NMR, and 13C NMR spectroscopies. Characterization of their interfacial properties has shown that both CGK and CGN surfactants are surface‐active and effective in reducing interfacial free energy. Washing test results indicated relatively good detergency compared with surfactants commonly employed in detergent applications. From environmental compatibility tests, both CGK and CGN are found to be readily biodegradable, nontoxic, nonirritating, and very mild. In particular, the CGK surfactant was found to be more efficient in reducing interfacial free energy since a larger number of CGK molecules are preferentially adsorbed at the air–water interface due to higher hydrophobicity and larger mobility of CGK than CGN, indicating possible uses in detergent applications.
Electrospun Heparin‐Loaded Core–Shell Nanofiber Sutures for Achilles Tendon Regeneration In Vivo
Authors: Ye Ya‐Jing , Zhou Ya‐Qing , Jing Zhuo‐Yuan , Liu Yang‐Yang , Yin Da‐Chuan
Published: May 2018

Achilles tendon reconstruction surgery is the primary clinical method for repairing acute Achilles tendon ruptures. However, the efficacy of the postoperative healing process and the recovery of physiological function are inadequate. This study examines the healing mechanism of ruptured rat Achilles tendons seamed with heparin‐loaded core–shell fiber sutures fabricated via near‐field electrospinning. High‐heparin‐concentration sutures (PPH3.0) perform better than the low‐heparin‐concentration sutures and commercial sutures (CSs). The PPH3.0 suture recruits fewer inflammatory cells and shows good histocompatibility in peritoneal implantation experiments. Staining of the Achilles tendon rupture repair zone demonstrates that a high heparin concentration in sutures reduces immune‐inflammatory responses. Immunohistochemical analysis reveals that the transforming growth factor‐β staining scores of the PPH3.0 sutures are not significantly different from those of the corresponding control group but are significantly different from those of the CSs and non‐heparin‐loaded‐suture groups. According to vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) analysis, the concentration of VEGF in the group treated with the PPH3.0 suture increases by 37.5% compared with that in its control group. No significant difference in tension strength is observed between the PPH3.0 group and healthy Achilles tendons. These findings illustrate that this novel method effectively treats Achilles tendon rupture and promotes healing and regeneration.
Cross‐Linkable Modified Nanocellulose/Polyester Resin‐Based Composites: Effect of Unsaturated Fatty Acid Nanocellulose Modification on Material Performances
Authors: Rusmirović Jelena D. , Rančić Milica P. , Pavlović Vladimir B. , Rakić Vesna M. , Stevanović Sanja , Djonlagić Jasna , Marinković Aleksandar D.
Published: May 2018

Unsaturated fatty acid (FA)–modified nanocellulose (m‐NC) shows potential application in improving mechanical properties of unsaturated polyester/m‐NC nanocomposites (UPe/m‐NC). A polyester matrix is obtained by polycondensation of maleic anhydride and products of poly(ethylene terephthalate) depolymerization with propylene glycol. Two methods of NC modification are performed: direct esterification with oleic acid, linseed, or sunflower oil FAs, and esterification/amidation with maleic acid/ethylene diamine (MA/EDA) bridging group followed by amidation with methyl ester of FAs. Increases of stress at break in the ranges from 148.8% to 181.4% and from 155.8% to193.0% for UPe/m‐NC composites loaded with 1 wt% of NC modified directly or via MA/EDA cross‐linker, respectively, are obtained. Results of the modeling of tensile modulus, by using the Cox–Krenchel model, show good agreement with experimentally obtained data. The effect of FAs' cross‐linking capabilities on the dynamic‐mechanical and thermal properties of the UPe/m‐NC is studied. Cross‐linking density, modulus, and Tg of the nanocomposite show appropriate relation with the unsaturation extent/structure of NC modification.
Dual‐Responsive SPMA‐Modified Polymer Photonic Crystals and Their Dynamic Display Patterns
Authors: Gao Zewen , Gao Dongsheng , Huang Chao , Zhang Hanbing , Guo Jinbao , Wei Jie
Published: May 2018

Light and electrothermal responsive polymer photonic crystals (PCs) modified with 1′‐acryloyl chloride‐3′,3′‐dimethyl‐6‐nitro‐spiro(2H‐1‐benzopyran‐2,2′‐indoline) (SPMA) are proposed, and their dynamic display patterns are achieved through the combination of the SPMA‐modified PCs and a patterned graphite layer. These PCs exhibit fluorescence under UV light irradiation because of the isomerization of the SPMA, which is restricted in the shell of the polymer colloidal spheres. After a voltage is applied to the patterned graphite layer, the fluorescence of PCs in the specific area disappears, and dynamic display patterns are obtained. Under UV light irradiation, the PCs change from the “partial‐fluorescence” state to the initial “fluorescence” state, and the patterns disappear. Using this technique, the PC pattern “M L N” on the glass substrate and PC patterns from “0” to “9” on the paper substrate are fabricated. Thus, these dual‐responsive PCs have potential applications in information recording, anticounterfeiting, dynamic display, and photoelectric devices.
First clinical implementation of real‐time, real anatomy tracking and radiation beam control
Authors: Green Olga L. , Rankine Leith J. , Cai Bin , Curcuru Austen , Kashani Rojano , Rodriguez Vivian , Li H. Harold , Parikh Parag J. , Robinson Clifford G. , Olsen Jeffrey R. , Mutic Sasa , Goddu S. M. , Santanam Lakshmi
Published: May 2018

Purpose

We describe the acceptance testing, commissioning, periodic quality assurance, and workflow procedures developed for the first clinically implemented magnetic resonance imaging‐guided radiation therapy (MR‐IGRT) system for real‐time tracking and beam control.

Methods

The system utilizes real‐time cine imaging capabilities at 4 frames per second for real‐time tracking and beam control. Testing of the system was performed using an in‐house developed motion platform and a commercially available motion phantom. Anatomical tracking is performed by first identifying a target (a region of interest that is either tissue to be treated or a critical structure) and generating a contour around it. A boundary contour is also created to identify tracking margins. The tracking algorithm deforms the anatomical contour (target or a normal organ) on every subsequent cine frame and compares it to the static boundary contour. If the anatomy of interest moves outside the boundary, the radiation delivery is halted until the tracked anatomy returns to treatment portal. The following were performed to validate and clinically implement the system: (a) spatial integrity evaluation; (b) tracking accuracy; (c) latency; (d) relative point dose and spatial dosimetry; (e) development of clinical workflow for gating; and (f) independent verification by an outside credentialing service.

Results

The spatial integrity of the MR system was found to be within 2 mm over a 45‐cm diameter field‐of‐view. The tracking accuracy for geometric targets was within 1.2 mm. The average system latency was measured to be within 394 ms. The dosimetric accuracy using ionization chambers was within 1.3% ± 1.7%, and the dosimetric spatial accuracy was within 2 mm. The phantom irradiation for the outside credentialing service had satisfactory results, as well.

Conclusions

The first clinical MR‐IGRT system was validated for real‐time tracking and gating capabilities and shown to be reliable and accurate. Patient workflow methods were developed for efficient treatment. Periodic quality assurance tests can be efficiently performed with commercially available equipment to ensure accurate system performance.
Modelling the time‐dependent behaviour of granular material with hypoplasticity
Authors: Wang Shun , Wu Wei , Yin Zhen‐Yu , Peng Chong , He Xuzhen
Published: May 2018

This paper presents a constitutive model for time‐dependent behaviour of granular material. The model consists of 2 parts representing the inviscid and viscous behaviour of granular materials. The inviscid part is a rate‐independent hypoplastic constitutive model. The viscous part is represented by a rheological model, which contains a high‐order term denoting the strain acceleration. The proposed model is validated by simulating some element tests on granular soils. Our model is able to model not only the non‐isotach behaviour but also the 3 creep stages, namely, primary, secondary, and tertiary creep, in a unified way.
Effect of body position on reflex and voluntary pelvic floor muscle contraction during a distraction task
Authors: Dewaele Pauline , Deffieux Xavier , Villot Anne , Billecocq Sylvie , Amarenco Gérard , Thubert Thibault
Published: May 2018

Aims

To explore the impact of body position (sitting vs standing) on voluntary and reflex pelvic floor muscle (PFM) contraction during a mental distraction task (DT).

Methods

Informed consent was obtained from 19 healthy women. The electromyographic (EMG) activity of the external anal sphincter (EAS) was recorded during voluntary and reflex contraction. Reflex contraction of the EAS was induced by means of coughing. The trials were carried out with and without a mental DT (paced auditory serial additional test). PFM contraction was recorded in two different postures: standing and sitting. During voluntary PFM contraction, reaction time (RT1), defined as latency between the stimulus and the onset of EAS EMG activity, was measured. During reflex PFM contraction, latency between the onset of external intercostal (EIC) muscle EMG activity and EAS EMG activity was measured (RT3).

Results

Concerning voluntary pelvic floor muscle contraction, there was no difference between the two positions with and without DT, except for RT1 without DT. RT1 was shorter (353.99 mv/s; 263.89‐425.03) in a standing position than in a sitting position (409.86 mv/s; 361.86‐461.90) (ratio 0.86, P = 0.014). Concerning reflex PFM contraction, there was no difference between standing position RT3 (−96 ms; IQR: −114: −62) and sitting position RT3 (−80 ms; IQR: −100; −51) (ratio 1.2, P = 0.225) without DT. With DT, reflex PFM was also not different (−36 vs −34 ms, ratio 1.06, P = 0.86).

Conclusions

Body position did not influence the timing of voluntary and reflex PFM contraction during DT.
Relaxin‐2 therapy reverses radiation‐induced fibrosis and restores bladder function in mice
Authors: Ikeda Youko , Zabbarova Irina V. , Birder Lori A. , Wipf Peter , Getchell Samuel E. , Tyagi Pradeep , Fry Christopher H. , Drake Marcus J. , Kanai Anthony J.
Published: May 2018

Aim

To determine the efficacy of human relaxin‐2 (hRLX2) in reversing radiation‐induced bladder fibrosis and lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD). Radiation cystitis is a consequence of radiotherapy for pelvic malignancies. Acutely, irradiation leads to reactive oxygen/nitrogen species in urothelial cells, apoptosis, barrier disruption, and inflammation. Chronically, this results in collagen deposition, bladder fibrosis, and attenuated storage and voiding functions. In severe cases, cystectomies are performed as current therapies do not reverse fibrosis.

Methods

We developed a mouse model for selective bladder irradiation (10 Gray; 1 Gy = 100 rads) resulting in chronic fibrosis within 6 weeks, with decreased bladder compliance, contractility, and overflow incontinence. Seven weeks post‐irradiation, female C57Bl/6 mice were continuously infused with hRLX2 (400 μg/kg/day/14 days) or vehicle (saline) via subcutaneous osmotic pumps. Mice were evaluated in vivo using urine spot analysis, cystometrograms and external urethral sphincter electromyograms; and in vitro using length‐tension measurements, Western blots, histology, and immunohistochemistry.

Results

hRLX2 reversed fibrosis, decreased collagen content, improved bladder wall architecture, and increased bladder compliance, detrusor smooth muscle Cav1.2 expression and detrusor contractility in mice with chronic radiation cystitis. hRLX2 treatment outcomes were likely caused by the activation of RXFP1/2 receptors which are expressed on the detrusor.

Conclusion

hRLX2 may be a new therapeutic option for rescuing bladders with chronic radiation cystitis.
Targeting p75 neurotrophin receptors ameliorates spinal cord injury‐induced detrusor sphincter dyssynergia in mice
Authors: Zabbarova Irina V. , Ikeda Youko , Carder Evan J. , Wipf Peter , Wolf‐Johnston Amanda S. , Birder Lori A. , Yoshimura Naoki , Getchell Samuel E. , Almansoori Khalifa , Tyagi Pradeep , Fry Christopher H. , Drake Marcus J. , Kanai Anthony J.
Published: May 2018

Aims

To determine the role of p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR) and the therapeutic effect of the selective small molecule p75NTR modulator, LM11A‐31, in spinal cord injury (SCI) induced lower urinary tract dysfunction (LTUD) using a mouse model.

Methods

Adult female T8‐T9 transected mice were gavaged daily with LM11A‐31 (100 mg/kg) for up to 6 weeks, starting 1 day before, or 7 days following injury. Mice were evaluated in vivo using urine spot analysis, cystometrograms (CMGs), and external urethral sphincter (EUS) electromyograms (EMGs); and in vitro using histology, immunohistochemistry, and Western blot.

Results

Our studies confirm highest expression of p75NTRs in the detrusor layer of the mouse bladder and lamina II region of the dorsal horn of the lumbar‐sacral (L6‐S1) spinal cord which significantly decreased following SCI. LM11A‐31 prevented or ameliorated the detrusor sphincter dyssynergia (DSD) and detrusor overactivity (DO) in SCI mice, significantly improving bladder compliance. Furthermore, LM11A‐31 treatment blocked the SCI‐related urothelial damage and bladder wall remodeling.

Conclusion

Drugs targeting p75NTRs can moderate DSD and DO in SCI mice, may identify pathophysiological mechanisms, and have therapeutic potential in SCI patients.
Metal Nanoparticle Photocatalysts: Synthesis, Characterization, and Application
Authors: Han Pengfei , Martens Wayde , Waclawik Eric Rolfe , Sarina Sarina , Zhu Huaiyong
Published: May 2018

Metal nanoparticles (NPs) have emerged as a kind of new photocatalyst to drive various chemical reactions by visible‐light irradiation. A distinct advantage of metal NP photocatalysts is that their light absorption is not limited to a certain wavelength but instead they are able to utilize a broad range of wavelengths, constituting a large fraction of the solar spectrum. Metal NPs like gold, silver, and copper NPs can strongly absorb visible light due to the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) effect. Recent developments have shown that the light absorption properties strongly depend on the shape, size, and particle–particle interactions of NPs, which directly influence their photocatalytic activities. In this review, an overview of the preparation of metal NPs photocatalysts with various morphologies is given along with a brief discussion of the relationship between the morphology/composition and optical properties. The latest photocatalytic applications of these morphologies are also presented, and some of the challenges for the development of metal NPs photocatalysts are provided.
Airway dimensions from fetal life to adolescence—A literature overview
Authors: Dave Mital H. , Schmid Kathrin , Weiss Markus
Published: May 2018

Background

Data on airway dimensions in pediatric patients are important for proper selection of pediatric airway equipment such as endotracheal tubes, double‐lumen tubes, bronchial blockers, or stents. The aim of the present work was to provide a synopsis of the available data on pediatric airway dimensions.

Methods

A systematic literature search was carried out in the PubMed database, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, Prisma, and Google Scholar and secondarily completed by a reference search. Based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, a final selection of 109 studies with data on pediatric airway dimensions published from 1923 to 2018 were further analyzed.

Results

Six different airway measurement methods were identified. They included anatomical examinations, chest X‐ray, computed tomography, magnetic resonance tomography, bronchoscopy, and ultrasound. Anatomical studies were more abundant compared to other methods. Data provided were very heterogeneously presented and powered. In addition, due to different study conditions, they are hardly comparable. Among all, anatomical and computer tomography studies are thought to provide the most reliable data. Ultrasound is an upcoming technique to estimate airway parameters of fetus and premature infants. There was, in general, a lack of comprehensive studies providing a complete range of airway dimensions in larger groups of patients from birth to adolescence.

Conclusions

This work revealed a large heterogeneity of studies providing data on pediatric airway dimensions, making it impossible to compare, or assemble them to normograms for clinical use. Comprehensive studies in large population of children are needed to provide full range nomograms on pediatric airway dimensions.
Pediatric Pulmonology year in review 2017: Part 3
Authors: Ren Clement L. , Muston Heather N. , Yilmaz Ozge , Noah Terry L.
Published: May 2018

Pediatric Pulmonology publishes original research, reviews, and case reports related to a wide range of children's respiratory disorders. We here summarize the past year's publications in our major topic areas, in the context of selected literature in these areas from other journals relevant to our discipline. This review (Part 3 of a 5‐part series) covers selected articles on asthma, physiology/lung function testing, and respiratory infections.
Context and Implications Document for: Improving writing skills through technology‐based instruction: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Little Callie W. , Clark Jacourie C. , Tani Novell E. , Connor Carol McDonald
Published: May 2018

This guide accompanies the following article: Little, C. W., Clark, J. C., Tani, N. E. & Connor, C. M., (2018) Improving writing skills through technology‐based instruction: a meta‐analysis. Review of Education, https://doi.org/10.1002/rev3.3114
Engineering High‐Performance MoO2‐Based Nanomaterials with Supercapacity and Superhydrophobicity by Tuning the Raw Materials Source
Authors: Zhang Yunqiang , Yang Song , Wang Shulan , Liu Hua Kun , Li Li , Dou Shi Xue , Liu Xuan
Published: May 2018

Herein, a simple self‐assembly method is proposed for the fabrication of MoO2‐based superhydrophobic material with record high contact angles (contact angle up to about 173°) for conductive metal oxides on hard/soft substrates. The spin‐coated surface demonstrates excellent oil–water separation efficiency (>98%) after 50 cycles and robust corrosion resistance after immersion into different pH solutions for 20 d. These water‐resistant coatings retain excellent superhydrophobicity after oil immersion, knife‐scratch, and long‐cycle sandpaper abrasion, which is not observed on most artificial surfaces. Meanwhile, the functionality switching from superhydrophobicity to supercapacity, which have an inverse relationship in aqueous solutions because of poor electrode wettability, is achieved simply by editing the raw materials source. Tuning of the raw materials leads to the same product MoO2/graphitic carbon with different morphologies and functionalities. Different from superhydrophobic MoO2/carbon ball flowers, MoO2 nanotubes with carbon exhibit excellent supercapacity with a large gravimetric capacitance and great cycling stability.
Physically Transient Threshold Switching Device Based on Magnesium Oxide for Security Application
Authors: Sun Jing , Wang Hong , Song Fang , Wang Zhan , Dang Bingjie , Yang Mei , Gao Haixia , Ma Xiaohua , Hao Yue
Published: May 2018

Transient memristors are prospective candidates for both secure memory systems and biointegrated electronics, which are capable to physically disappear at a programmed time with a triggered operation. However, the sneak current issue has been a considerable obstacle to achieve high‐density transient crossbar array of memristors. To solve this problem, it is necessary to develop a transient switch device to turn the memory device on and off controllably. Here, a dissolvable and flexible threshold switching (TS) device with a vertically crossed structure is introduced, which exhibits a high selectivity of 107, steep turn‐on slope of <8 mV dec−1, and fast ON/OFF switch speed within 50/25 ns. Triggered failure could be achieved after soaking the device in deionized water for 8 min at room temperature. Furthermore, a water‐assisted transfer printing method is used to fabricate flexible and transient TS device arrays for bioresorbable systems, in which none of any significant degradation is observed under a bending radius of 2 mm. Integrating the selector with a transient memristor is capable of 107 Gb memory implementation, indicating that the transient TS device could provide great opportunities to achieve highly integrated transient memory arrays.
Advanced 3D Analysis and Optimization of Single‐Molecule FISH in Drosophila Muscle
Authors: Noma Akiko , Smith Carlas S. , Huisman Maximiliaan , Martin Robert M. , Moore Melissa J. , Grunwald David
Published: May 2018

Single‐molecule fluorescence in situ hybridization (smFISH) provides direct access to the spatial relationship between nucleic acids and specific subcellular locations. The ability to precisely localize a messenger RNA can reveal key information about its regulation. Although smFISH is well established in cell culture or thin sections, the utility of smFISH is hindered in thick tissue sections due to the poor probe penetration of fixed tissue, the inaccessibility of target mRNAs for probe hybridization, high background fluorescence, spherical aberration along the optical axis, and the lack of methods for image segmentation of organelles. Studying mRNA localization in 50 µm thick Drosophila larval muscle sections, these obstacles are overcome using sample‐specific optimization of smFISH, particle identification based on maximum likelihood testing, and 3D multiple‐organelle segmentation. The latter allows independent thresholds to be assigned to different regions of interest within an image stack. This approach therefore facilitates accurate measurement of mRNA location in thick tissues.
Self‐Powered Cursor Using a Triboelectric Mechanism
Authors: Wu Han , Shi Qiongfeng , Wang Fei , Thean Aaron Voon‐Yew , Lee Chengkuo
Published: May 2018

This work reports the complete theoretical modeling, simulation, and experimental characterization of a self‐powered cursor based on triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG). The self‐powered cursor is made of liquid‐metal and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) mixture that deforms and contacts with different sensing electrodes under different applied force. The self‐powered cursor has the capability of simultaneously detecting normal force (0–25 N) and shear force direction (0°–360°) for the first time. The normal force sensing is characterized by open‐circuit voltage, charge, and current with the sensitivity of 0.131 V N−1, 0.048 nC N−1, and 0.175 nA N−1, respectively. The shear force direction detection can achieve a direction resolution of 15°. Because of the high output voltage and low internal impedance, the self‐powered cursor is readily compatible with commercial portable circuits without the requirement of specified bulky high‐impedance instruments to detect the output voltage. Demonstration of the self‐powered cursor as a triggering signal to drive a small vehicle is successfully realized by directly detecting the output voltage without any periphery signal processing circuits. The robust structure, stable output performance, and self‐powered sensing property enable the self‐powered cursor as an ideal human machine interface towards batteryless, energy saving, and environmentally friendly applications.
Maximum regularized likelihood estimators: A general prediction theory and applications
Authors: Zhuang Rui , Lederer Johannes
Published: May 2018

Maximum regularized likelihood estimators (MRLEs) are arguably the most established class of estimators in high‐dimensional statistics. In this paper, we derive guarantees for MRLEs in the Kullback–Leibler divergence, a general measure of prediction accuracy. We assume only that the densities have a convex parametrization and that the regularization is definite and positive homogenous. The results thus apply to a very large variety of models and estimators, such as tensor regression and graphical models with convex and non‐convex regularized methods. A main conclusion is that MRLEs are broadly consistent in prediction—regardless of whether restricted eigenvalues or similar conditions hold. Copyright © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On gradient‐based optimization of jacket structures for offshore wind turbines
Authors: Oest Jacob , Sandal Kasper , Schafhirt Sebastian , Stieng Lars Einar S. , Muskulus Michael
Published: May 2018

During the bidding or very early design phases of jacket structures for offshore wind turbines, there may be very limited information available on meteorological conditions, soil conditions, turbine specifications, etc. However, it is still important to quickly produce near‐optimal designs with production costs similar to that of the final support structure. Numerical optimization methods can be used to this purpose. This paper investigates three gradient‐based optimization methods, where preliminary designs are produced by mass optimization. The mass is reduced by changing tube diameter and thickness of the structural members, and the optimization considers both frequency and fatigue constraints. The three methods are based on (1) damage equivalent loads, (2) quasi‐static analysis, and (3) dynamic analysis. The optimizations are conducted using in‐house software JADOP (jacket design optimization), and the optimized designs are evaluated using state‐of‐the‐art integrated time‐domain simulation software FEDEM Windpower. The findings show that each analysis can be applied with success. However, if excitations of structural frequencies contribute significantly to the overall damage, special care must be taken with quasi‐static and static modeling. It is observed that wave loading does not contribute considerably to the fatigue damage. Additionally, the aerodynamic loading does not change significantly with changes of tube geometry within the optimization ranges. The optimized designs are partly driven by reducing stress concentration factors, which can be achieved by reducing the chord diameter to thickness ratio. Thus, the optimized designs resemble each other to a certain extent.
Structure and Electronic Properties of an Expanded Terpyridine Complex of Nickel(II) [Ni(ddpd)2](BF4)2
Authors: Dorn Matthias , Mack Katharina , Carrella Luca M. , Rentschler Eva , Förster Christoph , Heinze Katja
Published: May 2018

The synthesis, structure in the solid state, electrochemical, magnetic and optical properties of a new nickel(II) complex [Ni(ddpd)2]2+ bearing the tridentate N,N′‐dimethyl‐N,N′‐dipyridin‐2‐ylpyridine‐2,6‐diamine (ddpd) ligand are presented. The optical properties are discussed within the framework of ligand field theory.
Extending the Toolbox for the Modular Arrangement of Functions at Xanthene/Dibenzofuran Platforms: Introduction of Directly Linked Transition Metals beside Bismuthanes
Authors: Materne Karolin , Spröwitz Christin , Braun‐Cula Beatrice , Limberg Christian
Published: May 2018

XanI2 (4,5‐diiodo‐2,7‐di‐tert‐butyl‐9,9‐dimethylxanthene) and DBFI2 (4,6‐diiododibenzofuran) have been functionalized first with Ph2Bi units through reaction with PhLi and then with Ph2BiCl. The remaining C–I bonds were shown to undergo oxidative additions to M(PPh3)2 species (M = Pd, Ni; generated from employed [M(PPh3)4]), thus giving rise to heterometallic systems [Xan(BiPh2)Pd(PPh3)2I] (2), [Xan(BiPh2)Ni(PPh3)2I] (3), and [DBF(BiPh2)Pd(PPh3)2I] (6), where the bismuthane moieties are positioned vis‐à‐vis a d8‐MII center; treatment of 2 with AgOTf led to an exchange of the iodide ligand at the central nickel atom by a more weakly bound triflate ligand. The developed synthetic strategy can be envisioned to also provide access to combinations of such transition metal moieties with other main group entities for cooperative substrate activation.
Deletion of the Clostridium thermocellum recA gene reveals that it is required for thermophilic plasmid replication but not plasmid integration at homologous DNA sequences
Authors: Groom Joseph , Chung Daehwan , Kim Sun-Ki , Guss Adam , Westpheling Janet
Published: May 2018

A limitation to the engineering of cellulolytic thermophiles is the availability of functional, thermostable (≥ 60 °C) replicating plasmid vectors for rapid expression and testing of genes that provide improved or novel fuel molecule production pathways. A series of plasmid vectors for genetic manipulation of the cellulolytic thermophile Caldicellulosiruptor bescii has recently been extended to Clostridium thermocellum, another cellulolytic thermophile that very efficiently solubilizes plant biomass and produces ethanol. While the C. bescii pBAS2 replicon on these plasmids is thermostable, the use of homologous promoters, signal sequences and genes led to undesired integration into the bacterial chromosome, a result also observed with less thermostable replicating vectors. In an attempt to overcome undesired plasmid integration in C. thermocellum, a deletion of recA was constructed. As expected, C. thermocellum ∆recA showed impaired growth in chemically defined medium and an increased susceptibility to UV damage. Interestingly, we also found that recA is required for replication of the C. bescii thermophilic plasmid pBAS2 in C. thermocellum, but it is not required for replication of plasmid pNW33N. In addition, the C. thermocellum recA mutant retained the ability to integrate homologous DNA into the C. thermocellum chromosome. These data indicate that recA can be required for replication of certain plasmids, and that a recA-independent mechanism exists for the integration of homologous DNA into the C. thermocellum chromosome. Understanding thermophilic plasmid replication is not only important for engineering of these cellulolytic thermophiles, but also for developing genetic systems in similar new potentially useful non-model organisms.
Global dataset for carbon and nitrogen stable isotope ratios of lotic periphyton
Authors: Ishikawa Naoto F. , Doi Hideyuki , Finlay Jacques C.
Published: May 2018

Carbon and nitrogen stable isotope ratios (δ13C and δ15N) have been widely employed in food web analysis. In lotic environments, periphyton is a major primary producer that makes a large contribution to food web production as well as carbon and nitrogen cycling. While the δ13C and δ15N values have many advantages as a natural tracer, the controls over their high spatial and temporal variability in stream periphyton are not well known. Here, we present the global dataset of δ13C and δ15N values of lotic periphyton from 54 published and two unpublished sources, including 978 observations from 148 streams/rivers in 38 regions around the world, from arctic to tropical sites. The 54 published sources were articles recorded during the period of 1994–2016 in 25 academic journals. The two unpublished sources were from the authors’ own data. The dataset showed that δ13C and δ15N values of periphyton ranged from −47.3 to −9.3‰ and from −5.6 to + 22.6‰, respectively. The dataset also includes physicochemical factors (altitude, coordinates, catchment area, width, depth, geology, vegetation, canopy coverage, biome, season, presence of anadromous salmon, temperature, pH, current velocity, and discharge), nutrient data (nitrate and ammonium concentrations), and algal attributes (chlorophyll a concentration, algal species compositions, and carbonates removal) in streams/rivers studied, all of which may help interpret the δ13C and δ15N values of periphyton. The metadata file outlines structure of all the data and with references for data sources, providing a resource for future food web studies in stream and river ecosystems.
Veolia selected to deliver water treatment plant for lithium mine in Australia
Authors: Atkinson Simon
Published: May 2018

Water treatment systems from Veolia Water Technologies are to be employed at a plant in Western Australia, enabling a mining company to double the output at one of the largest hard-rock lithium mines in the world – satisfying all environmental requirements regarding discharge water.
Aquaporin enters into distribution agreements in India, Taiwan and South Korea
Authors: Atkinson Simon
Published: May 2018

Global water technology company Aquaporin A/S has recently entered into distribution agreements in India, Taiwan and South Korea covering its Aquaporin Inside technology, as this news focus explains.!
Integrated speed/synchrophasing control of turboprop engine
Authors: Zhao X. , Huang X. , Zhang T. , Wang Y.
Published: May 2018

Propeller synchrophasing control is an active method to reduce the noise and vibration of turboprop aircraft without additional weight and power. Phase control accuracy has a great influence on the noise reduction effect of synchrophasing. An integrated power/speed/synchrophasing control strategy is proposed to improve the control precision. Speed/phase control transformation logic based on a multi-blade phase plane is adopted which can take both the rapidity of speed response and phase control precision into account, but there exists switching oscillation during the mode transform process. In order to suppress the phase fluctuation due to exterior disturbance, a slave-slave control scheme is provided to take place of a master-slave scheme. Simulation results based on an integrated turboprop engine/propeller real-time non-linear model show that speed/phase integration logic can improve the response rapidity of both the speed and phase. The precision of the control system is verified to be in acceptable range.
“Safariland”: Tourism, Development and the Marketing of Kenya in the Post-Colonial World
Authors: Smart Devin
Published: May 2018

This article explores the role of tourism in the development plans of Kenya during the 1960s and 1970s, examining what this reveals about the new opportunities and constrictions that officials encountered as they tried to globally reconfigure the place of their new decolonizing nation in the post-colonial world. These themes are explored by examining the political economy of development and tourism, the marketing infrastructures that Kenyan officials created to shape how Western consumers thought about “Kenya,” and how these factors influenced the kinds of discourses that were promoted globally about this newly-independent African country.
Modified Reporting of Positive Urine Cultures to Reduce Inappropriate Treatment of Asymptomatic Bacteriuria Among Nonpregnant, Noncatheterized Inpatients: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Daley Peter , Garcia David , Inayatullah Raheel , Penney Carla , Boyd Sarah
Published: May 2018

DESIGN

We conducted a randomized, parallel, unblinded, superiority trial of a laboratory reporting intervention designed to reduce antibiotic treatment of asymptomatic bacteriuria (ASB).

METHODS

Results of positive urine cultures from 110 consecutive inpatients at 2 urban acute-care hospitals were randomized to standard report (control) or modified report (intervention). The standard report included bacterial count, bacterial identification, and antibiotic susceptibility information including drug dosage and cost. The modified report stated: “This POSITIVE urine culture may represent asymptomatic bacteriuria or urinary tract infection. If urinary tract infection is suspected clinically, please call the microbiology laboratory … for identification and susceptibility results.” We used the following exclusion criteria: age <18 years, pregnancy, presence of an indwelling urinary catheter, samples from patients already on antibiotics, neutropenia, or admission to an intensive care unit. The primary efficacy outcome was the proportion of appropriate antibiotic therapy prescribed.

RESULTS

According to our intention-to-treat (ITT) analysis, the proportion of appropriate treatment (urinary tract infection treated plus ASB not treated) was higher in the modified arm than in the standard arm: 44 of 55 (80.0%) versus 29 of 55 (52.7%), respectively (absolute difference, −27.3%; RR, 0.42; P = .002; number needed to report for benefit, 3.7).

CONCLUSIONS

Modified reporting resulted in a significant reduction in inappropriate antibiotic treatment without an increase in adverse events. Safety should be further assessed in a large effectiveness trial before implementation

TRIAL REGISTRATION. clinicaltrials.gov#NCT02797613

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2018;814–819
Local Economic Voting and the Agricultural Boom in Argentina, 2007–2015
Authors: Mangonnet Jorge , Murillo María Victoria , Rubio Julia María
Published: May 2018

This article investigates the effect of local economic conditions on voting behavior by focusing on the export-oriented agricultural areas of Argentina during the commodities boom. It assesses the marginal effect of export wealth on electoral outcomes by studying the impact of soybean production, the main Argentine export product during this period. The combination of rising agricultural prices and a salient national tax on exports allows us to evaluate how wealth and tax policy shape local electoral behavior. This study relies on a spatial econometric analysis of the vote across Argentine departments for the 2007–15 period, along with qualitative evidence from interviews and a descriptive analysis of government appointments.