bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seismic performances of AAC masonry: a review of experimental and numerical approaches
Authors: Miccoli Lorenzo
Published: August 2018

Autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) has been of growing interest for its structural performances, thanks to its high strength‐to‐weight ratio and low bulk density. The prominent advantage of AAC is its lightweight, this aspect in seismic‐prone areas can be beneficial for the seismic performances of a building. The focus of this paper is to provide an overview of seismic performance of load‐bearing masonry made of AAC, based on the past studies carried out in this field. Results on the assessment of the in‐plane cyclic response of walls with and without reinforcements are reported. In addition, the response of an AAC confined masonry buildings tested on the shaking table is presented. The second part of the paper shows the numerical simulation of the building response based on linear and nonlinear static (push‐over) methods. According to authorś findings, unreinforced AAC masonry buildings with a regular geometry can face low to medium seismic events. For severe seismic events, a significant damage can be expected in AAC multistorey buildings. To achieve higher seismic performance, the AAC masonry must be combined with other structural systems as confined masonry or bed‐joint reinforced walls.
Marine fauna sort at fine resolution in an ecotone of shifting wetland foundation species
Authors: Johnston Cora A. , Gruner Daniel S.
Published: August 2018

Climate‐driven global change is shifting the distribution and abundance of foundation species that form the base of ecosystems. The corresponding responses of inhabitant species to shifts in habitat‐forming species are poorly understood, however we expect community responses to depend on how species perceive habitat patches and sort among them, particularly along range edges. We used the poleward shift of a mangrove–marsh ecotone to evaluate sorting of marine macrofauna (small fish and decapod crustaceans) among vegetation patches at a series of nested scales. Within the mangrove–marsh ecotone, we deployed retrievable panels of artificial vegetation structures mimicking a marsh grass and two mangrove species in patches dominated by each of these three foundation species. Over six months, we observed macrofaunal sorting by physical structure, isolated on panels, and by patch type, which included stand‐level attributes such as production, shading, and chemical cues. We found multiscale partitioning of macrofaunal community composition by site (kilometer scale), vegetation type, and patch type with stand attributes (meters), and physical structure (centimeters). Differences in community composition between vegetation types at each scale indicated that mangroves and marsh grass differ as habitat for marine fauna and that wetland inhabitants can distinguish and sort among fine‐grain habitat patches that co‐occur within the ecotone. Such differences suggest that shifts in wetland vegetation are consequential for the protection and management of coastal populations. Studies that determine which habitat attributes shape inhabitant fauna associations can help reveal not just the spatial grain at which inhabitants associate with emerging frontier habitat but also how the redistribution of foundation species shapes the pace and resolution of broader community change.
Adult‐onset type 1 diabetes: Predictors of glycaemic control
Authors: Hesse Dan , Boysen Louise , Ridderstråle Martin
Published: August 2018

Aims

Knowledge about adult‐onset (AO) type 1 diabetes remains insufficient. We sought to characterize the initial 5 years of AO type 1 diabetes and hypothesized that initial factors predictive of subsequent glycaemic control might exist.

Materials and methods

A retrospective cohort study based on electronic medical records of 280 subjects with newly diagnosed AO type 1 diabetes (>18 years of age, excluding secondary and latent autoimmune diabetes) with available data for the initial 5‐year treatment.

Results

Characteristics at diagnosis: 61% men, mean age 37 ± 12 years, BMI 23 ± 3.3 (kg/m2), systolic/diastolic blood pressure: 123 ± 15/76 ± 9 mm Hg and LDL cholesterol: 2.9 ± 0.9 mmol/L. HbA1c decreased from 106 mmol/mol (11.8%) at diagnosis to 52 mmol/mol (6.9%) at 6 months and then increased gradually to 67 mmol/mol (8.3%) after 5 years. Strict glycaemic control (<53 mmol/mol (7%)) was achieved by 66% within 6‐9 months and 30% after 5 years. Comparing patients with and without strict glycaemic control after 5 years revealed no differences in HbA1c, C‐peptide or any other diabetes‐related parameter at the time of diagnosis. However, reaching strict control within 6‐9 months after diagnosis was strongly associated with remaining in strict control after 5 years (OR: 9.2 (CI‐95% 4.0‐20.9; P < 0.0001)). Conversely, patients who did not achieve early strict control were very unlikely to be well controlled after 5 years.

Conclusions

Long‐term tight glycaemic control in subjects with AO type 1 diabetes is both achievable and to some extent predictable. Whether alternative strategies shortly after diagnosis would benefit patients with insufficient glycaemic control should be investigated.
[Mn14] “Structural Analogues” of Well‐Known [Mn12] Single‐Molecule Magnets
Authors: Charalambous Maria , Moushi Eleni E. , Nguyen Tu N. , Mowson Andrew M. , Christou George , Tasiopoulos Anastasios J.
Published: August 2018

A new family of tetradecanuclear Mn clusters [MnIII10MnIV4(µ3‐O)12(EtCO2)12(pd)4(EtOH)4(py)4](ClO4)2 (1), [MnIII10MnIV4(µ3‐O)12(EtCO2)12(mpd)4(EtOH)2(H2O)2(py)4](ClO4)2 (2), and [MnIII10MnIV4(µ3‐O)12(MeCO2)10(pic)4(pd)4(pdH2)4] [3] (picH = picolinic acid) were prepared from the use of the aliphatic diols 1,3‐propanediol (pdH2) and 2‐methyl‐1,3‐propanediol (mpdH2). The [MnIII10MnIV4] aggregates consist of a [MnIII10] outer ring surrounding a [MnIV4] defective dicubane. Interestingly, the core of 1–3 is similar to those of a [Mn12(µ3‐O)12(RCO2)16(H2O)4] “normal [Mn12]” and a modified [Mn12] aggregate consisting of a [MnIII8] ring, surrounding a [MnIV4] defective dicubane called “flat [Mn12]”. Dc and ac magnetic susceptibility studies revealed the presence of dominant antiferromagnetic exchange interactions in complexes 1–3 leading to small spin ground‐state values.
Distinguishing enantiomeric amino acids with chiral cyclodextrin adducts and structures for lossless ion manipulations
Authors: Nagy Gabe , Chouinard Christopher D. , Attah Isaac K. , Webb Ian K. , Garimella Sandilya V. B. , Ibrahim Yehia M. , Baker Erin S. , Smith Richard D.
Published: August 2018

Enantiomeric molecular evaluations remain an enormous challenge for current analytical techniques. To date, derivatization strategies and long separation times are generally required in these studies, and the development and implementation of new approaches are needed to increase speed and distinguish currently unresolvable compounds. Herein, we describe a method using chiral cyclodextrin adducts and structures for lossless ion manipulations (SLIM) and serpentine ultralong path with extended routing (SUPER) ion mobility (IM) to achieve rapid, high resolution separations of d and l enantiomeric amino acids. In the analyses, a chiral cyclodextrin is added to each sample. Two cyclodextrins were found to complex each amino acid molecule (i.e. potentially sandwiching the amino acid in their cavities) and forming host‐guest noncovalent complexes that were distinct for each d and l amino acid pair studied and thus separable with IM in SLIM devices. The SLIM was also used to accumulate much larger ion populations than previously feasible for evaluation and therefore allow enantiomeric measurements of higher sensitivity, with gains in resolution from our ultralong path separation capabilities, than previously reported by any other IM–based approach.
Understanding processes of island development on an island braided river over timescales from days to decades
Authors: Gurnell Angela M. , Bertoldi Walter , Francis Robert A. , Gurnell John , Mardhiah Ulfah
Published: August 2018

Bar colonization by vegetation and subsequent island formation is a key bio‐geomorphological process in fluvial landscape evolution. Here we investigate morphological and ecological evolution of river islands over timescales from single floods to decades, focusing on islands initiated by deposited trees that sprout to form vegetated patches.

On a braided reach of the high‐energy Tagliamento River, Italy, we monitored 30 pioneer islands of 1 to 17 years age in comparison with unvegetated bar surfaces, open areas between islands, and established island surfaces. We integrated morphological, surface sediment and vegetation properties of islands initiated by different flood events, combining evidence from remotely‐sensed and ground observations, flow and climate time series.

At a decadal timescale, pioneer islands aggrade rapidly to the elevation of the mean annual flood, showing a steady increase in vegetation canopy height, fining of surface sediments from predominantly gravel to silty‐sand with a notable clay and organic fraction. The standing vegetation included over 130 species, with the largest number on island surfaces of intermediate elevation and flood disturbance. As islands age, standing vegetation becomes comprised mainly of competitor species with transient seed banks and typical of woodland, scrub, pasture and wetland habitats, whereas the winter seedbank is dominated on all surfaces by ruderal species with persistent seedbanks, mainly associated with aquatic, wetland, pasture, arable and wasteland habitats. At shorter timescales, the biogeomorphological trajectory of pioneer islands is initiated by large flood events that control the elevation of deposited trees, and subsequent flows that control tree survival and establishment. Island morphological evolution depends on the frequency‐magnitude of sediment and seed delivery and redistribution by flood and possibly wind events, whereas island ability to retain sediments reflects the degree of vegetation establishment, which in the short‐term may vary with seasonal to annual moisture supply, substrate characteristics and climatic growth conditions. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ecosystem engineering by hummock‐building earthworms in seasonal wetlands of eastern South Africa: Insights into the mechanics of biomorphodynamic feedbacks in wetland ecosystems
Authors: Grenfell Michael C. , Aalto Rolf , Grenfell Suzanne E. , Ellery William N.
Published: August 2018

This paper resolves the origin of clay hummock micro‐topography in seasonal wetlands of the Drakensberg Foothills, providing a review and appraisal of previously‐suggested mechanisms of hummock formation in the context of new field and laboratory data. Field surveys revealed neo‐formation of clay hummocks in a river channel that had been abandoned in c.1984. Fresh earthworm castings were located atop hummocks protruding from inundated abandoned channel margins. Earthworm castings, and sediment cores taken in hummocks and adjacent hollows, were analysed for soil‐adsorbed carbon and nitrogen using an HCN analyser, and for 210Pb activity using alpha‐geochronology. 210Pb activity profiles suggest relative enrichment of the isotope in hummocks, and relative depletion in adjacent hollows. Earthworm castings are characterised by very high 210Pb activity, as well as high C and N contents. Hummocks have significantly higher C and N contents than adjacent hollows. Results suggest that it is the foraging activity of earthworms in litter‐rich seasonal wetland hollows, and repeated excretion of castings atop adjacent hummocks, that is responsible for the elemental enrichment observed. The paper presents a conceptual model of hummock formation in wetlands through interactions between hydrogeomorphology and earthworm activity, and illustrates a mechanism of biogeomorphic inheritance through which ordered patterns of preferential flow can emerge in ecosystems. Further implications of hummock formation and nodal accumulation of nutrients are considered in relation to wetland resilience and regulatory ecosystem service provision.© 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Genesis and accumulation of natural gas in the Upper Palaeozoic strata of north‐eastern Ordos Basin, China
Authors: Shao Xinhe , Pang Xiongqi , Jiang Fujie , Li Longlong , Li Hui , Zheng Dingye , Huyan Yuying
Published: August 2018

The north‐eastern Ordos Basin in Central China has become an exploration target in recent years due to the potential of natural gas resources in the Upper Palaeozoic strata. In this study, by analysing the geochemical characteristics of the source rocks and the natural gas, the genesis of the Upper Palaeozoic natural gas was identified. In addition, the accumulation process was discussed by combining studies of hydrocarbon generation and burial/thermal history. The results reveal three sets of source rocks developed in the study area—Carboniferous Benxi (C2b), Permian Taiyuan (P1t), and Shanxi (P1s) formations—consisting of mudstones, carbonaceous mudstones, and coals. The source rocks contain abundant Type III organic matter and have entered mature to high‐mature stage, while source rocks in the south‐eastern part of the study area have entered the overmature stage due to the activity of Zijinshan magmatic rocks. The natural gas has a high content of methane (average 93.99%). The stable carbon isotope of methane (δ13C1) value (average −37.05‰) and that of ethane (δ13C2) value (average −26.4‰) and the composition of the light hydrocarbons reflect the idea that the natural gas is organic in origin, thermogenic, and mainly terrigenous‐sourced. The evolution of a transitional to continental depositional environment of the source rocks results in the variation in the geochemical characteristics of the Upper Palaeozoic gas in the study area. Analysis of fluid inclusions indicates a long and continuous period of natural gas charging in the study area from 165 to 65 Ma. Sandstone bodies close to or interbedded with the source rocks made the gas charging from the source rocks to the reservoirs over a short distance with high efficiency, while faults and fractures provided paths for the gas migrating to reservoirs vertically far from the source rocks. The huge gas generation potential of the source rocks and continuous distribution pattern of sandstone bodies provides favourable conditions for the development of a large‐scale natural gas reservoir.
Inactive lifestyles in peri‐urban Australia: A qualitative examination of social and physical environmental determinants
Authors: Olson Jenny L. , March Sonja , Brownlow Charlotte , Biddle Stuart J. H. , Ireland Michael
Published: August 2018

Issue addressed

Australians living in peri‐urban areas are insufficiently active, sedentary and experience poorer health than people in major cities. There are health benefits attributable to active lifestyles that could contribute to the improved health and well‐being of this population. To support the adoption of active lifestyles, it is important to understand the unique context in which behaviour occurs.

Methods

The aim of this study was to identify characteristics of the social and physical peri‐urban environment that may impact active lifestyles. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted in peri‐urban southern Queensland. Data were analysed by thematic analysis.

Results

The natural environment, weather, distance, accessibility and walkability were features of the physical environment relevant to active lifestyles. Social factors included social capital and crime. Activity‐supportive characteristics (eg, community spirit) were identified, in addition to active lifestyle barriers (eg, lack of public transport).

Conclusions

Despite activity‐supportive social and environmental characteristics, most participants reported inactive lifestyles. The barriers to active lifestyles in peri‐urban environments may negate these activity‐supportive features. Some barriers are difficult to modify (eg, distance and accessibility). However, some may be alleviated through the adoption of activity‐supportive policy and urban design (eg, pedestrian mobility infrastructure).

So what?

Strategies to support active lifestyles in peri‐urban environments must take into account unmodifiable contextual barriers, whilst encouraging utilisation of existing activity‐supportive infrastructure and resources. The enhancement of activity‐supportive environments through improved neighbourhood walkability and the usability of public transport may encourage some peri‐urban residents to undertake more active forms of transport and recreational physical activity.
Estimating the water holding capacity of the critical zone using near‐surface geophysics
Authors: Flinchum Brady A. , Holbrook W. Steven , Grana Dario , Parsekian Andrew D. , Carr Bradley J. , Hayes Jorden L. , Jiao Jianying
Published: August 2018

In high‐mountain watersheds, the critical zone holds crucial life‐sustaining water stores in the form of shallow groundwater aquifers. To better understand the role that the critical zone plays in moderating hydrologic response to fluxes at the surface and in the subsurface, the hydrologic properties must be characterized over large scales (i.e., that of the watershed). In this study, we estimate porosity from geophysical measurements across a 58‐ha area to depths of ~80 m. Our observations include velocities from seismic refraction, downhole nuclear magnetic resonance logs, downhole sonic logs, and samples acquired by push coring. We use a petrophysical approach by combining two rock physics models, a porous medium for the saprolite and a differential effective medium for the fractured rock, into a Bayesian inversion. The inverted geophysical porosities show a positive correlation with measured values (R2 = 0.93). We extrapolate the porosity estimates from 30 individual seismic refraction lines to a 3D volume below our study area using ordinary kriging to quantify the water holding capacity of our study area. Our results reveal that the critical zone in our study area holds ~2.9 × 106 ± 9.6 × 105 m3 of water, where 34% of this storage is in the saprolite, 55% is in the fractured rock, and the remaining 11% is in the bedrock.
Interactions between shallow groundwater and low‐impact development underdrain flow at different temporal scales
Authors: Zhang Kun , Chui Ting Fong May
Published: August 2018

Low‐impact development (LID) practices are effective in managing surface run‐off, mitigating nonpoint source pollution, and recharging groundwater. However, they are often less effective in shallow groundwater environments as their surface infiltration and bottom exfiltration rates could be reduced, and the underdrains (i.e., underground drains within the media of the LID practices) may drain groundwater and alter groundwater dynamics. To evaluate and better understand the interactions between shallow groundwater and LID underdrain flow at different temporal scales, multiple statistical analyses were conducted on the monitored groundwater table depth and underdrain flow of porous pavements at the Central Kitsap Community Campus (Washington) and both porous pavements and bioretention cells at the IMAX parking lot (Ontario, Canada). The wavelet power, which represents oscillation behaviour and is obtained by continuous wavelet transform, of underdrain flow was a hybrid of that of rainfall and groundwater table depth. Rainfall variations at finer temporal scales (5 min to 10 days) resulted in finer scale underdrain flow, whereas groundwater fluctuations at coarser temporal scales (10 to 30 days) accounted for coarser scale underdrain flow and extended the duration of it. The impact of groundwater on underdrain flow was greater when the groundwater table was shallower than the underdrain (e.g., <0.6 m), particularly at finer temporal resolutions (5 min to 1 hr), which correspond to short‐term responses of LID practices and their corresponding effects on flooding. It was possible that the local groundwater mounds formed by infiltrated water instead of regional groundwater fluctuations that affected the underdrain flow in these conditions. Finally, through an evolutionary polynomial regression, two simple equations were obtained to predict the total amount and peak of LID underdrain flow using event‐based rainfall, groundwater table depth, and the hydraulic conductivity of media and in situ soils. The results may facilitate LID design and planning, and their implementation in shallow groundwater areas. The derived equations may benefit the real‐time control of LID‐related sewer and treatment systems in shallow groundwater urban catchments.
Increased Cortical Porosity and Reduced Trabecular Density Are Not Necessarily Synonymous With Bone Loss and Microstructural Deterioration
Authors: Zebaze Roger , Atkinson Elizabeth J , Peng Yu , Bui Minh , Ghasem‐Zadeh Ali , Khosla Sundeep , Seeman Ego
Published: August 2018

Absolute values of cortical porosity and trabecular density are used to estimate fracture risk, but these values are the net result of their growth‐related assembly and age‐related deterioration. Because bone loss affects both cortical and trabecular bone, we hypothesized that a surrogate measure of bone fragility should capture the age‐related deterioration of both traits, and should do so independently of their peak values. Accordingly, we developed a structural fragility score (SFS), which quantifies the increment in distal radial cortical porosity and decrement in trabecular density relative to their premenopausal mean values in 99 postmenopausal women with forearm fractures and 105 controls using HR‐pQCT. We expressed the results as odds ratios (ORs; 95% CI). Cortical porosity was associated with fractures in the presence of deteriorated trabecular density (OR 2.30; 95% CI, 1.30 to 4.05; p = 0.004), but not if trabecular deterioration was absent (OR 0.96; 95% CI, 0.50 to 1.86; p = 0.91). Likewise, trabecular density was associated with fractures in the presence of high cortical porosity (OR 3.35; 95% CI, 1.85 to 6.07; p < 0.0001), but not in its absence (OR 1.60; 95% CI, 0.78 to 3.28; p = 0.20). The SFS, which captures coexisting cortical and trabecular deterioration, was associated with fractures (OR 4.52; 95% CI, 2.17 to 9.45; p < 0.0001). BMD was associated with fracture before accounting for the SFS (OR 5.79; 95% CI, 1.24 to 27.1; p = 0.026), not after (OR 4.38; 95% CI, 0.48 to 39.9; p = 0.19). The SFS was associated with fracture before (OR 4.67; 95% CI, 2.21 to 9.88) and after (OR 3.94; 95% CI, 1.80 to 8.6) accounting for BMD (both ps < 0.0001). The disease of bone fragility is captured by cortical and trabecular deterioration: A measurement of coexisting cortical and trabecular deterioration is likely to identify women at risk for fracture more robustly than absolute values of cortical porosity, trabecular density, or BMD. © 2018 The Authors. JBMR Plus Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research
Histological and molecular techniques utilized to investigate animal models of depression. An updated review
Authors: Ayuob Nasra Naeim , Balgoon Maha Jameal
Published: August 2018

This review aimed to summarize the different histopathological techniques and procedures utilized during investigating the different animal models of depression in order to explore the pathophysiological aspect of depression and testing the efficacy of the antidepressant drugs or new treatments. This will be helpful while designing researches aiming to achieve these objectives. It was found that the major obstacle during investigating the animal models of depression was the restricted availability of validated animal models. The chronic stress models have face, construct, and predictive validity. It was found that the histological techniques used in investigating the animal models of depression that was described in the literatures fall under three categories; the light microscopic, the electron microscopic and the molecular biological studies. The light microscope studies were performed using the routine histological staining and immunohistochemical technique that aimed to describe the hippocampal histopathological changes induced by depression. Establishment of a preclinical behavioral science laboratory is highly recommended. It will encourage and support the conduction of high quality, multidisciplinary researches targeting anxiety and other psychiatric disorders and will indirectly improve the health care provided to the psychiatric patients.

Research Highlights

Chronic stress models are valid ones.

Light microscope was utilized to examine the routinely or immunohistochemically stained sections in hippocampus of animal models of depression while electron microscope was utilized to examine its ultrastructure.
An adjuvant compound that enhances immunogenicity at fractional doses of the Sabin‐inactivated poliovirus vaccine (sIPV) with a long duration of protection in a rat model
Authors: Song Shaohui , Liu Ze , Zhou Jian , Cai Wei , Yang Huijuan , Ma Lei , Gao Jingxia , Li Weidong , Liao Guoyang
Published: August 2018

Background

At the same dosage, the new generation of Sabin‐inactivated poliovirus vaccine (sIPV) is less immunogenic than the traditional oral polio vaccine (OPV) dosage in China. The useful adjuvant might be a necessary strategy to strengthen the immune protective effects.

Methods

In this study, we produced an adjuvant compound (named KML05) that could promote immunogenicity and fractional doses of sIPV with a long duration of protection in a rat model. The compound adjuvant had both advantages and a function of MF59 and carbopol971P.

Results

The effect seroconversion of experimental animals immunized with KML05 could be extended to one‐eighth of the dose. According to the result of the geometric mean titers (GMTs), KML05 adjuvant could save eight times the amount of sIPV D‐antigen usage, but aluminum hydroxide adjuvant could save twice at the same titers. Additionally, it was found that there was a significant difference in the GMT titer of poliovirus type 2 between animals immunized by KML05 and alum adjuvant (P < 0.05). At 12th‐month postvaccination, the neutralization titers stimulated by IPV‐KML05 were maintained over a longer time period in immunized animals.

Conclusion

Our research team developed KML05 adjuvant, which combined carbopol971P with MF59, increased antibody responses to sIPV for a longer duration of protection in a rat model.
Increased expression of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase cytoplasmic isoform by hepatitis B virus X protein affects hepatitis B virus replication
Authors: Tang Xiaoqiong , Yan Libo , Li Hong , Du Lingyao , Shi Ying , Huang Feijun , Tang Hong
Published: August 2018

Hepatitis B virus X protein (HBx) can stimulate the transcription of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK), a rate‐determining enzyme in gluconeogenic pathway. Two isoforms of PEPCK exist, a cytoplasmic form (PCK1) and a mitochondrial isoform (PCK2). The current study investigated the direct effect of HBx‐stimulated PEPCK on hepatitis B virus (HBV) replication. We showed that PCK1 rather than PCK2 was upregulated by HBx. We also demonstrated that overexpression of PCK1 decreased HBV replication, whereas inhibition of PCK1‐enhanced HBV replication. Furthermore, we found overexpression of PCK1 led to reduced expression of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐coactivator 1α (PGC‐1α) and peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ (PPAR‐γ), whereas knocking down PCK1 resulted in an increased expression of PGC‐1α and PPAR‐γ. When PPAR‐γ was inhibited, knocking down PCK1 could not induce the apparent enhanced HBV replication. Our data suggested that PCK1 induced by HBx led to decreased HBV replication through the downregulation of PGC‐1α and PPAR‐γ. Thus, our study demonstrates a negative‐feedback loop involving PCK1 and HBV may provide a balanced cell environment for HBV persistent infection.
Effects of dissipative substrate on the performances of enhancement mode AlInN/GaN HEMTs
Authors: Dong Yan , Xie Zili , Chen Dunjun , Lu Hai , Zhang Rong , Zheng Youdou
Published: August 2018

AlInN/GaN high electron mobility transistors (HEMTs) exhibit numerous advantages compared to other known semiconductor devices. However, it is more difficult to realize the enhancement mode (E‐mode) HEMTs of AlInN/GaN than those of the AlGaN/GaN heterostructure, because of the higher 2‐dimensional electron gas density at the AlInN/GaN interface. In this work, using simulations, it is shown that the E‐mode can be achieved in AlInN/GaN HEMTs by tuning the thickness of the AlInN barrier layer to less than 1.14 nm in our investigated structure. Based on the E‐mode structure, the device performance stability of Al0.83In0.17N/GaN HEMTs with different heat dissipative substrates was evaluated to explore their effect on the suppression of the self‐heating behavior. The DC behavior, device temperature, lattice temperature distribution, current cutoff frequency (fT), unilateral power‐gain‐cutoff frequency (fmax), and transient response were investigated comparatively. The results indicate that the AlInN/GaN HEMTs with a free‐standing GaN substrate exhibit the best performance characteristics, ie, lowest lattice temperature, highest fT, and fastest transient response, in comparison with those using the flip‐chip substrate and sapphire substrate. Our simulation results suggest that the free‐standing GaN substrate can significantly improve the thermal stability and other basic performance characteristics of the E‐mode AlInN/GaN HEMTs.
Divergent responses of thermal growing degree‐days and season to projected warming over China
Authors: Deng Haoyu , Yin Yunhe , Wu Shaohong
Published: August 2018

Thermal conditions, such as thermal growing degree‐days (GDD) and growing season (GS), have primary effects on vegetation growth. In this study, changes in GDD and GS during 1961–2099 in China have been projected using the daily mean temperatures derived from five general circulation models. The multi‐model mean values generally capture the spatio‐temporal changes in GDD and GS during 1961–2005 and are thus used for predicting the thermal conditions in the 21st century under the representative concentration pathway scenarios (RCPs). The GDD and GS are found to increase with warming, with stronger GDD enhancement in south and southwest China and larger GS extension in the eastern and southern parts of the Tibetan Plateau. On average, nationally, the GDD increase and GS extension in the long term (2071–2099) range from 279.1 °C·d and 16.5 days for RCP 2.6 to 964.4 °C·d and 50.3 days for RCP 8.5, relative to 1981–2010. Advances in the start of the growing season would drive the GS extension in the mountainous area in northeast China, as well as south and southwest China. On the contrary, the delay at the end of the growing season would drive the GS extension in northwest China and the regions between northeast China and the tropic of Cancer. An analysis under RCP 8.5 suggests that the temperature sensitivity of GDD would increase from the near term (2011–2040) to the long term for the eastern monsoon zone (237.5to 262.1 °C·d/°C) and the northwest arid/semi‐arid zone (162.3 to 184.0 °C·d/°C). However, the sensitivity of GS to the warming would decrease from 10.9 to 8.4 days/°C and 9.1 to 6.8 days/°C for these two regions, respectively. As thermal conditions intensify, temperature zones in eastern China would progressively shift northward.
Controls of soil and aggregate‐associated organic carbon variations following natural vegetation restoration on the Loess Plateau in China
Authors: Deng Lei , Kim Dong‐Gill , Peng Changhui , Shangguan Zhouping
Published: August 2018

Natural vegetation restoration can enhance soil organic carbon (SOC) sequestration, but the mechanisms and control factors underlying SOC sequestration are still unknown. The objectives of the study are to quantify the temporal variation of soil and aggregate‐associated organic carbon (OC) and identify factors controlling the variation following natural vegetation restoration after farmland abandonment. We collected soils from sites having 5, 30, 60, 100, and 160 years of a natural vegetation restoration chronosequence after farmland abandonment in the Loess Plateau, China. The results showed that natural vegetation restoration increased macroaggregates (0.25–2 mm; 46.6% to 73.9%), SOC (2.27 to 9.81 g kg−1), and aggregate OC (7.33 to 36.98 g kg−1) in the top 20‐cm soil compared with abandoned farmland, and the increases mainly occurred in the early stage (<60 years). The increase of SOC was contributed by OC accumulated in macroaggregates (0.25–2 mm) rather than microaggregates (≤0.25 mm). Moreover, SOC sequestration in the topsoil (0–10 cm) was mainly determined by fine root biomass (FR), labile organic carbon (LOC), and microbial biomass carbon (MBC). And in the subsoil (10–20 cm), SOC sequestration was mainly determined by the proportion of macroaggregates. The results suggest that natural vegetation restoration increased SOC and aggregate OC, and FR, MBC, LOC, and the physical protection of aggregates played important roles in regulating SOC and aggregate OC.
A pilot randomized‐controlled trial of the urodynamic efficacy of mirabegron for patients with neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction
Authors: Welk Blayne , Hickling Duane , McKibbon Mary , Radomski Sidney , Ethans Karen
Published: August 2018

Aims

To determine the effectiveness of mirabegron in patients with neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction.

Methods

Randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study. Canadian patients with spinal cord injury (SCI) or multiple sclerosis (MS) with urinary symptoms and incontinence were recruited. Patients were randomized to mirabegron 25 mg (or an identical placebo) for 2 weeks at which point a dose escalation to mirabegron 50 mg (or an identical placebo) was maintained for 8 weeks. Urodynamics were performed before and after treatment. The primary outcome measure was maximum cystometric capacity (MCC). Intention to treat analysis and ANCOVA models (with adjustment for baseline values) were used and marginal means (MM) are reported; P‐value <0.05 was considered significant.

Results

Sixteen (9 SCI and 7 MS) patients were randomized to mirabegron and 16 (10 SCI and 6 MS) to placebo. At study completion, there was no significant difference in MCC between mirabegron and placebo (MM 305 vs 369 mL, P = 0.20). There was no significant difference in volume at first neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO, MM 167 vs 137 mL, P = 0.14) and peak pressure of NDO (MM 69 vs 82 cmH2O, P = 0.25). There was no significant difference in pad weights or voiding diary parameters. There was a significantly lower symptom burden among those treated with mirabegron (total neurogenic bladder symptom score MM 29 vs 34, P = 0.047).

Conclusions

Among patients with SCI or MS, we demonstrated non‐significant trends towards improvement in some urodynamic parameters with mirabegron 50 mg compared to placebo, and a significantly lower neurogenic bladder symptom burden.
Direct and indirect assessment of cancer metabolism explored by MRI
Authors: Kishimoto Shun , Oshima Nobu , Krishna Murali C. , Gillies Robert J.
Published: August 2018

Magnetic resonance‐based approaches to obtain metabolic information on cancer have been explored for decades. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) has been developed to pursue metabolic profiling and successfully used to monitor several physiologic parameters such as pO2, pH, and redox status. All these parameters are associated with pathophysiology of various diseases. Especially in oncology, cancer hypoxia has been intensively studied because of its relationship with metabolic alterations, acquiring treatment resistance, or a malignant phenotype. Thus, pO2 imaging leads to an indirect metabolic assessment in this regard. Proton electron double‐resonance imaging (PEDRI) is an imaging technique to visualize EPR by using the Overhauser effect. Most biological parameters assessed in EPR can be visualized using PEDRI. However, EPR and PEDRI have not been evaluated sufficiently for clinical application due to limitations such as toxicity of the probes or high specific absorption rate. Hyperpolarized (HP) 13C MRI is a novel imaging technique that can directly visualize the metabolic profile. Production of metabolites of the HP 13C probe delivered to target tissue are evaluated in this modality. Unlike EPR or PEDRI, which require the injection of radical probes, 13C MRI requires a probe that can be physiologically metabolized and efficiently hyperpolarized. Among several methods for hyperpolarizing probes, dissolution dynamic nuclear hyperpolarization is a widely used technique for in vivo imaging. Pyruvate is the most suitable probe for HP 13C MRI because it is part of the glycolytic pathway and the high efficiency of pyruvate‐to‐lactate conversion is a distinguishing feature of cancer. Its clinical applicability also makes it a promising metabolic imaging modality. Here, we summarize the applications of these indirect and direct MR‐based metabolic assessments focusing on pO2 and pyruvate‐to‐lactate conversion. The two parameters are strongly associated with each other, hence the acquired information is potentially interchangeable when evaluating treatment response to oxygen‐dependent cancer therapies.
Micromammal taphonomy and site formation process of Nutria Mansa 1 archaeological site (Buenos Aires, Argentina)
Authors: Gómez Gustavo N. , Bonomo Mariano
Published: August 2018

This paper presents the results of the taphonomic analysis of the micromammal bone remains recovered from Nutria Mansa 1 (NM1), an archaeological site located in the Pampean plains, Argentina. This campsite was occupied by hunter‐gatherers that processed and consumed Lama guanicoe during the Late Holocene. In NM1, there are taxa from different environments: mammals from arid and semiarid environments (Patagonic Phytogeographic Province) and humid and temperate environments (Pampean Phytogeographic Province). The main objective of the present study was to evaluate how the recorded small mammal species were incorporated into the archaeological site and which of them were exploited by humans. The micromammal assemblage shows traces of post mortem agents such as weathering, chemical action of sediments, and probably some evidence of predation. The micromammal bones in the archaeological record offer no clear evidence of human modification, and their presence can be the result of predation or other postdepositional agents such as the action of water on the flood plain.
Resolve Workforce Challenges to Ensure Future Success at Water and Wastewater Utilities
Authors: Dickerson Sherri Thompson , Butler Andrada
Published: August 2018

Water and wastewater utilities across the nation are facing major challenges. A key factor is an aging utility workforce, which is prompting a departure of retiring workers and, where suitably qualified replacements aren't found, a corresponding loss of staff knowledge and skills.
Integrated eicosanoid lipidomics and gene expression reveal decreased prostaglandin catabolism and increased 5‐lipoxygenase expression in aggressive subtypes of endometrial cancer
Authors: Cummings Michele , Massey Karen A , Mappa Georgia , Wilkinson Nafisa , Hutson Richard , Munot Sarika , Saidi Sam , Nugent David , Broadhead Timothy , Wright Alexander I , Barber Stuart , Nicolaou Anna , Orsi Nicolas M
Published: August 2018

Eicosanoids comprise a diverse group of bioactive lipids which orchestrate inflammation, immunity, and tissue homeostasis, and whose dysregulation has been implicated in carcinogenesis. Among the various eicosanoid metabolic pathways, studies of their role in endometrial cancer (EC) have very much been confined to the COX‐2 pathway. This study aimed to determine changes in epithelial eicosanoid metabolic gene expression in endometrial carcinogenesis; to integrate these with eicosanoid profiles in matched clinical specimens; and, finally, to investigate the prognostic value of candidate eicosanoid metabolic enzymes. Eicosanoids and related mediators were profiled using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry in fresh frozen normal, hyperplastic, and cancerous (types I and II) endometrial specimens (n = 192). Sample‐matched epithelia were isolated by laser capture microdissection and whole genome expression analysis was performed using microarrays. Integration of eicosanoid and gene expression data showed that the accepted paradigm of increased COX‐2‐mediated prostaglandin production does not apply in EC carcinogenesis. Instead, there was evidence for decreased PGE2/PGF2α inactivation via 15‐hydroxyprostaglandin dehydrogenase (HPGD) in type II ECs. Increased expression of 5‐lipoxygenase (ALOX5) mRNA was also identified in type II ECs, together with proportional increases in its product, 5‐hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (5‐HETE). Decreased HPGD and elevated ALOX5 mRNA expression were associated with adverse outcome, which was confirmed by immunohistochemical tissue microarray analysis of an independent series of EC specimens (n = 419). While neither COX‐1 nor COX‐2 protein expression had prognostic value, low HPGD combined with high ALOX5 expression was associated with the worst overall and progression‐free survival. These findings highlight HPGD and ALOX5 as potential therapeutic targets in aggressive EC subtypes. Copyright © 2018 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Identification of a new nucleotide binding site by structural alignment and site directed mutagenesis
Authors: Zhang Xiaoying , Yang Qingzhan , Shen Qingya , Zheng Jimin , Jia Zongchao
Published: August 2018

Nucleotide binding proteins are involved in many important cellular processes and form one of the largest protein families. Traditionally, the identification of nucleotide binding motif, such as the ATP binding P‐loop, has relied on the comparison of protein sequences, consideration of the function of each of the proteins and the identification of signature motifs within the sequence. Sometimes, it is difficult to identify nucleotide binding proteins based on sequence alignment because of increased evolutionary distances. In such cases, structural alignments can provide a better guide for comparing specific features of sequences because the overall structures of these motifs are conserved despite low sequence identity. In the present study, on the basis of bioinformatics and structural comparison of three representative protein structures of Ham1 superfamily, YjjX, YggV, and YhdE, previously identified as nucleotide binding proteins, we have identified a novel nucleotide binding motif (T/SXXXXK/R). The importance of this signature motif in binding of nucleotides was validated using site directed mutagenesis. Mutations of conserved residues of the loop either decreased or completely abolished the nucleotide binding activity of the protein. We used the conserved motif identified in the study to search for other proteins having a similar motif. Two proteins, GTP cyclohydrolase II and dephospho‐CoA pyrophosphorylase showed presence of the loop, suggesting that this nucleotide binding motif is not unique in the Ham1 superfamily, but represents a novel NTP recognition motif.
Induced systemic resistance against Cucumber mosaic virus by Phoma sp. GS8‐2 stimulates transcription of pathogenesis‐related genes in Arabidopsis
Authors: Elsharkawy Mohsen Mohamed
Published: August 2018

Background

Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) is a serious threat to vegetable production worldwide. The efficacy of Phoma sp. GS8‐2 was evaluated against CMV in Arabidopsis and cucumber plants.

Results

Arabidopsis and cucumber plants treated with barley grain inoculum (BGI) or cell‐free filtrate (CF) of GS8‐2 demonstrated decreased CMV severity and titre using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay relative to the control. Cucumber growth and yield parameters were significantly increased due to colonization with GS8‐2 under field conditions. Molecular mechanisms underlying mediated resistance induced by GS8‐2 against CMV were investigated. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) results confirmed that both BGI and CF of GS8‐2 stimulated the transcription levels of pathogenesis related genes (β1‐3 glucanase, chitinase, PR1, PAL1 and LOX1), which could be involved in induced resistance against CMV.

Conclusion

Exploring the expression of the highly upregulated genes in GS8‐2‐induced plants suggested the contribution of multiple plant defence pathways against CMV. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Pharmacometabolomics Informs About Pharmacokinetic Profile of Methylphenidate
Authors: Kaddurah‐Daouk Rima , Hankemeier Thomas , Scholl Elizabeth H. , Baillie Rebecca , Harms Amy , Stage Claus , Dalhoff Kim P. , Jűrgens Gesche , Taboureau Olivier , Nzabonimpa Grace S. , Motsinger‐Reif Alison A. , Thomsen Ragnar , Linnet Kristian , Rasmussen Henrik B. ,   INDICES Consortium,   Pharmacometabolomics Research Network
Published: August 2018

Carboxylesterase 1 (CES1) metabolizes methylphenidate and other drugs. CES1 gene variation only partially explains pharmacokinetic (PK) variability. Biomarkers predicting the PKs of drugs metabolized by CES1 are needed. We identified lipids in plasma from 44 healthy subjects that correlated with CES1 activity as determined by PK parameters of methylphenidate including a ceramide (q value = 0.001) and a phosphatidylcholine (q value = 0.005). Carriers of the CES1 143E allele had decreased methylphenidate metabolism and altered concentration of this phosphatidylcholine (q value = 0.040) and several high polyunsaturated fatty acid lipids (PUFAs). The half‐maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of chenodeoxycholate and taurocholate were 13.55 and 19.51 μM, respectively, consistent with a physiological significance. In silico analysis suggested that bile acid inhibition of CES1 involved both binding to the active and superficial sites of the enzyme. We initiated identification of metabolites predicting PKs of drugs metabolized by CES1 and suggest lipids to regulate or be regulated by this enzyme.
First reported case of afatinib‐associated toxic megacolon
Authors: Kwok Wang Chun , Tam Terence Chi Chun , Lam David Chi Leung
Published: August 2018

We report the first case of toxic megacolon associated with afatinib use, which is a potentially fatal complication, with risks of colonic perforation. In this case, the condition improved on stopping afatnib. Clinicians need to be alert of this rare but fatal adverse effect and to avoid anti‐diarrhoeal agents, which can worsen toxic megacolon. Anti‐diarrhoeal agents are routinely given if diarrhoea occurs on afatinib. These should be stopped and avoided if toxic megacolon occurs.
Multifocal thymic cysts with cholesterol granuloma
Authors: Nagata Shunichi , Ishihara Misa , Omasa Mitsugu , Nakanishi Takao , Motoyama Hideki
Published: August 2018

A 56‐year‐old female presented to our department with chest discomfort. Contrast‐enhanced computed tomography (CT) revealed a cyst and nodule in the anterior mediastinum; positron emission tomography–CT showed an increased uptake in the nodule. Total thymectomy was performed to obtain a definitive diagnosis and treatment. A pathological diagnosis of multifocal thymic cysts with cholesterol granuloma was made. Microscopic examination revealed different‐sized cysts scattered in the thymus. These cysts were filled with cholesterol clefts and manifested three different phase characters. The nodule comprised granuloma‐containing cholesterol clefts. We report a rare case of a patient whose histopathology presented a series of cholesterol granuloma formations.