bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Galvanic corrosion after simulated small‐scale partial lead service line replacements
Authors: Triantafyllidou Simoni , Edwards Marc
Published: February 2018

Partial lead service line replacement with copper pipe creates a galvanic cell that can accelerate lead corrosion. Bench‐scale experiments under stagnant water conditions of high chloride‐to‐sulfate mass ratio (CSMR) demonstrated that galvanic connections between lead pipe (new or aged) and copper pipe increased lead release into the water by 1.1 to 16 times, compared with a full length of lead pipe alone. The extent of galvanic attack was dependent on drinking water quality. Exposure to water of high CSMR increased lead release in the lead–copper rigs by 3 to 12 times, compared with a lessaggressive low CSMR water. Galvanic current also increased by 1.5 to 2 times when switching from low to high CSMR. The small area of lead pipe adjacent to the copper joint (< 0.5 ft) dissipated 90–95% of the total galvanic current and accumulated a thick (1‐in.‐wide) layer of lead rust (i.e., a lead‐containing scale), which constituted a reservoir for semirandom particulate lead detachment into the water.
Mining water billing data to inform policy and communication strategies
Authors: Boyle Christine E. , Eskaf Shadi , Tiger Mary Wyatt , Hughes Jeffrey A.
Published: February 2018

Every utility serves a unique customer base with its own water use and revenue generation patterns. Knowing its customers in detail helps a water provider customize policies and communication strategies not only for the customer base but also for smaller, targeted groups. This article introduces a relatively inexpensive way that utilities can use existing billing data to learn more about customer use patterns and applies this methodology at five North Carolina utilities. Developing smarter revenue and water use analytics that take into account changes in use behavior helps utilities be proactive in planning for resources changes (and the resulting financial implications) and be more effective in their communications and marketing. By moving away from engaging with residential customers as one homogeneous mass and instead treating them as groups of customers with distinct habits and values, utilities can use targeted messaging and outreach to bring customers on board with new policy rollouts.
Ratiometric Interactions of Anionic Surfactants with Calf Thymus DNA Bound Cationic Surfactants: Study II
Authors: Chaudhuri Tandrima , Pan Animesh , Das Suman , Moulik Satya Priya
Published: February 2018

Cationic surfactant cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) and cetylpyridinium bromide (CPB) bind to the calf thymus DNA (ct‐DNA) like anionic biopolymers electrostatically, and establish equilibrium in aqueous medium at pH 7. At low concentration, ct‐DNA does not interact with anionic surfactants, sodium dodecylsulfate (SDS) and sodium dodecylbenzylsulfonate (SDBS). However, in the ground state, anionic surfactant is found to clearly establish equilibrium with ct‐DNA‐bound cationic surfactant whereby the same surfactant–DNA isosbestic point reappears. We herein report a detail ratiometric binding of CPB with ct‐DNA, and interaction of anionic SDBS with DNA‐bound CPB in comparison with the combined ct‐DNA–CTAB–SDS system. Compaction of ct‐DNA in presence of CPB and its decompaction using anionic SDBS is also studied in comparison with CTAB–SDS combination. The techniques used are tensiometry, spectrophotometry, viscometry, cyclic voltammetry, circular dichroism, isothermal titration calorimetry, and density functional theory (DFT)‐based computational calculations. The size and surface charge density of the surfactant headgroups and the phosphate group in DNA have a contributing role in the DNA compaction–decompaction phenomenon.
Pedigree‐based genetic management improves bison conservation
Authors: Giglio Rachael M. , Ivy Jamie A. , Jones Lee C. , Latch Emily K.
Published: February 2018

Overhunting and widespread land use change nearly caused the extinction of North American bison (Bison bison) by the late 1800s. Recovery efforts focused on preserving the remaining individuals and establishing federally managed conservation herds to build more sustainable populations. Today, bison in conservation herds are maintained in small, isolated herds that are managed through an annual or biannual cull of individuals to maintain target population sizes. We assessed alternative culling strategies for maintaining genetic variation over the long term in managed wild bison herds. Our objective was to compare a strategy modeled after a United States Fish and Wildlife Service strategy (all‐allele conservation culling strategy [AAC]) to a pedigree‐based mean kinship strategy (MK) and to a Random strategy that does not incorporate genetic data and is used to manage some conservation herds. We built an individual‐based model, parameterized in accordance with bison biology, to compare these culling strategies in 2 federally managed conservation herds at the Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge (FTN herd) and the National Bison Range (NBR herd). Our MK strategy retained more genetic variation and slowed the accumulation of inbreeding relative to the AAC or Random strategies, and these findings were consistent across wild bison herds with different founding sizes and current genetic diversity. These findings extend previous work demonstrating the utility of pedigree‐based management strategies in captive and wild population management, and show that such strategies maximize the retention of genome‐wide variation in contemporary bison herds. The modeling approach used in this study was useful for assessing outcomes prior to implementation, and the specific models developed for this study can be easily adapted to other managed wildlife species. © 2018 The Wildlife Society.
Estimating bobcat and Canada lynx distributions in British Columbia
Authors: Gooliaff TJ , Weir Richard D. , Hodges Karen E.
Published: February 2018

Understanding the distribution of a species is useful before undertaking management and conservation actions. Distribution estimates provide ecological insights about a species, and help frame the scope and scale of research questions. However, compiling reliable distribution information is a challenge for elusive mesocarnivores such as bobcats (Lynx rufus) and Canada lynx (L. canadensis). In British Columbia, Canada, bobcats and lynx are key mesocarnivores ecologically and are important furbearers, but their distributions are poorly understood. We compiled and compared 5 independent sources of bobcat and lynx records in British Columbia to gain a better understanding of their provincial distributions: trapping records, hunting records, vehicle‐kill records, trapper surveys, and images solicited from the public. Our objectives were to compare bobcat and lynx distributions derived from each of these data sources, and provide reliable estimates for the distribution of each species in British Columbia between 2008 and 2017. Although each method has unique advantages and limitations, all data sources indicated similar distributions, and each data source provided unique locations for the final distribution maps that we derived. Bobcats were restricted to the southern half of British Columbia, whereas lynx occurred across most of the interior of the province. Bobcat and lynx distributions broadly overlapped in southern British Columbia, but image detections generally occurred at higher elevations for lynx than bobcats. We demonstrate the utility of combining multiple data sources when estimating species distributions, and highlight the usefulness of citizen science in such studies. © 2018 The Wildlife Society.
Legal deposit in Euston Street
Authors: Bell Hazel K.
Published: February 2018

Gives an account of the history of legal deposit in Britain, and describes the policies and operation of the present Copyright Libraries Agency.
Where do ethical responsibilities in editing and publishing lie?
Authors: Glen John W.
Published: February 2018

There are many ethical responsibilities in preparing and publishing a scientific paper. The various responsibilities of authors, referees, editors and publishers are considered. While editors and publishers have a responsibility to seek to identify unethical or fraudulent papers, this is not always possible and primary responsibility for the accuracy of papers must lie with the authors. Editors however have a greater responsibility to try to ensure ethical behaviour in the refereeing process and to draw referees’ attention to the privileged nature of the paper under review. The requirements for the ethical handling of papers by the editors and publishers are also discussed, as are recent developments in public interest in the question of ethics in publishing papers.
The evolution of an editorial office in a small society
Authors: Bell Hazel K.
Published: February 2018

Outlines the development of the production of a small learned journal from the editor’s home through eighteen years.
NVQs in Publishing: why bother?
Authors: Feest Tim
Published: February 2018

National Vocational Qualifications, NVQs, have received a mixed reception in the UK and not least in the publishing industry. The background to the introduction and development of NVQs is covered and the process by which the qualifications are implemented, the procedures for assessment and relevant organisations are described. A Unit from one of the Book Publishing NVQs is presented in detail. It is argued that NVQs are an important part of continuing professional development for those in the publishing industry.
Serial selection and deselection decisions: the view from America
Authors: Germain J. Charles
Published: February 2018

Based on the author’s experience of many library visits in the United States and Canada, the article reviews the processes and criteria that characterize selection and deselection of serials in North America, and makes recommendations to publishers regarding promotion.
Fraud and the editor
Authors: Lock Stephen
Published: February 2018

Considers how improving the ethics of publication might help to diminish the amount of misconduct in medical research, and the role of the journal editor both in prevention and in setting the record straight.
Profiling and Imaging of Phospholipids in Brains of Abcd1‐Deficient Mice
Authors: Hama Kotaro , Fujiwara Yuko , Morita Masashi , Yamazaki Fumiyoshi , Nakashima Yuko , Takei Shiro , Takashima Shigeo , Setou Mitsutoshi , Shimozawa Nobuyuki , Imanaka Tsuneo , Yokoyama Kazuaki
Published: February 2018

ABCD1 is a gene responsible for X‐linked adrenoleukodystrophy (X‐ALD), and is critical for the transport of very long‐chain fatty acids (VLCFA) into peroxisomes and subsequent β‐oxidation. VLCFA‐containing lipids accumulate in X‐ALD patients, although the effect of ABCD1‐deficiency on each lipid species in the central nervous system has not been fully characterized. In this study, each phospholipid and lysophospholipid species in Abcd1‐deficient mice brains were profiled by liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry. Among the phospholipid and lysophospholipid species that are significantly more enriched in Abcd1‐deficient mice brains, VLCFA were present in 75, 15, 5, 4, and 1 species of phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, sphingomyelin, lysophosphatidylcholine, and lysophosphatidylethanolamine, respectively. Most VLCFA were incorporated at the sn‐1 position of phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine. Among the phospholipid species that are significantly less enriched in Abcd1‐deficient mice brains, odd‐numbered saturated or mono‐unsaturated fatty acyl moieties are contained in all phosphatidylcholine species. In addition, a number of phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylinositol, and phosphatidylserine species contained highly unsaturated fatty acyl moieties. Intriguingly, 44:1 phosphatidylcholine with VLCFA was mainly distributed in the gray matter, such as the cortex, but not in the white matter in the cerebrum and cerebellum. These results show that ABCD1‐deficiency causes metabolic alternation of long‐chain fatty acids and VLCFA. Moreover, our results imply a molecular mechanism for the incorporation of saturated or monounsaturated VLCFA into the sn‐1 position of phospholipids, and also indicate that the distribution of phospholipids with VLCFA may correlate with the development of X‐ALD.
Retracted: Early diabetic retinopathy diagnosis based on local retinal blood vessels analysis in optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) images
Authors: Eladawi Nabila , Elmogy Mohammed , Khalifa Fahmi , Ghazal Mohammed , Ghazi Nicola , Aboelfetouh Ahmed , Riad Alaa , Sandhu Harpal , Schaal Shlomit , El‐Baz Ayman
Published: February 2018

The above article from Medical Physics, published online on 22 February 2018 in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com), has been retracted by agreement between the authors, the journal Editor in Chief and John Wiley & Sons Ltd. The retraction has been agreed following an investigation carried out by the editors due to major overlap with a previously published article: British Journal of Ophthalmology (BJO) (Sandhu HS, Eladawi N, Elmogy M, et al Automated diabetic retinopathy detection using optical coherence tomography angiography: a pilot study, British Journal of Ophthalmology Published Online First: 23 January 2018. doi:10.1136/bjophthalmol-2017-311489
Current physiotherapy practice in the management of tennis elbow: A service evaluation
Authors: Bateman M. , Whitby E. , Kacha S. , Salt E.
Published: February 2018

Background

Tennis elbow is a common painful condition that may affect daily function and ability to work. Physiotherapy is the most commonly used primary intervention but there is a wide range of treatment options within the umbrella of physiotherapy. Our aim was to report on the treatments that are currently used by physiotherapists in a UK National Health Service (NHS) setting.

Methods

A retrospective service evaluation was conducted at two NHS hospital trusts by reviewing patient attendance records over a 1‐year period. All patients with tennis elbow were included, except those referred for postoperative rehabilitation. Patient notes were analysed using a predefined assessment template.

Results

A total of 65 patient records were identified, with patients having a mean age 48 years and mean symptom duration of 5.4 months. The mean treatment duration was 64 days, over 3.7 sessions. The most commonly used treatments were education and exercise, although the type and dosing of exercise varied greatly. Passive modalities such as ice, taping, manual therapy, acupuncture and electrotherapy were still used.

Conclusions

Wide variations in treatment approaches were identified. There was no consistency in the choice of modality used, the type of exercise or the dose of exercise prescribed. The use of passive modalities and corticosteroid injections was found to remain commonplace, despite a lack of supporting research evidence. There is a clear need for evidence‐based guidance for physiotherapists treating patients with tennis elbow.
Development, Verification, and Prediction of Osimertinib Drug–Drug Interactions Using PBPK Modeling Approach to Inform Drug Label
Authors: Pilla Reddy Venkatesh , Walker Michael , Sharma Pradeep , Ballard Peter , Vishwanathan Karthick
Published: February 2018

Osimertinib is a potent, highly selective, irreversible inhibitor of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and T790M resistance mutation. In vitro metabolism data suggested osimertinib is a substrate of cytochrome P450 (CYP)3A4/5, a weak inducer of CYP3A, and an inhibitor of breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP). A combination of in vitro data, clinical pharmacokinetic data, and drug‐drug interaction (DDI) data of osimertinib in oncology patients were used to develop the physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model and verify the DDI data of osimertinib. The model predicted the observed monotherapy concentration profile of osimertinib within 1.1‐fold, and showed good predictability (within 1.7‐fold) to the observed peak plasma concentration (Cmax) and area under the curve (AUC) DDI ratio changes, when co‐administered with rifampicin, itraconazole, and simvastatin, but not with rosuvastatin. Based on observed clinical data and PBPK simulations, the recommended dose of osimertinib when dosed with strong CYP3A inducers is 160 mg once daily. PBPK modeling suggested no dose adjustment with moderate and weak CYP3A inducers.
Electronic Responses to Humidity in Monolayer and Multilayer AuNP Stripes Fabricated by Convective Self‐Assembly
Authors: Zhang Pengcheng , Dai Yang , Viktorova Jekaterina , Offenhäusser Andreas , Mayer Dirk
Published: February 2018

Nanoparticle devices employing electrical transduction mechanisms have been developed for various fields of application such as strain sensing, chemical detection, photo detectors, solar cells, memory devices, and so on. Since most devices are exposed and operated at ambient conditions, the humidity poses a problem, influencing their electrical properties via the interaction between the water molecules and NP materials. Here, the fabrication of multilayer and monolayer AuNP stripes with different dominating charge transport regimes is reported and their electronic responses to humidity are studied. It is shown that the humidity‐dependent electronic response is strongly correlated with the morphology and electron transport regimes in the AuNP stripes. Due to the differences in AuNP arrangements and the resulting dominant charge transport regime, the multilayer and mono layer AuNP stripes response differently to the humidity. This work reveals the possible mechanism accounting for their different responses and can help the development of high performance nanoparticle‐based devices.
Hydrogen Bond‐Directed Molecular Packing and Dual Mechano chromic Luminescence of an Acylhydrazone‐Based Derivative in the Solid State and Its Application in Detection of Al3+ Ion
Authors: Wu Min , Wang Dan , Zheng Jian‐Quan , Fang De‐Cai , Jin Lin‐Pei , Zheng Xiang‐Jun
Published: February 2018

N‐(4‐Diethylamino‐2‐hydroxylbenzylidene)‐3‐hydroxy‐2‐naphthohyd‐ razide (H3L) was synthesized at 80 °C and 110 °C, and H3L80 and H3L110 crystals were obtained. They have the same composition. The structural analysis showed that H3L80 and H3L110 are composed of one dimensional supramolecular chains via intermolecular O‐H…O and C‐H…O hydrogen bonds, which are further assembled to supra‐molecular networks through intermolecular C‐H…O bonds between 1D chains, resulting in their unique molecular packing modes. H3L80 crystals emitted at 530 nm and H3L110 crystals emitted at 610 nm under 465 nm light. The largely red‐shifted emission for H3L110 is attributed to the enhancement of molecular planarization and π‐conjugation of H3L110 compared to H3L80. The dual mechanochromic luminescence of H3L80 and H3L110 fluorophor could be reversibly carried out by grinding of H3L80 and H3L110 crystals and subsequent recrystallization of H3L80 and H3L110 samples. The microstructural stability of H3L110 was concentration‐dependent in solutions, such as DMSO, DMF and THF, resulting in change of fluorescence property. But, H3L80 microstructure was stable in solutions. H3L80 could be used to detect Al (III) ion with high selectivity and sensitivity in aqueous medium. Also, H3L80 could detect intracellular Al3+ ions.
Effect of Coral‐Shaped Yttrium Iron Garnet Particles on the EMI Shielding Behaviour of Yttrium Iron Garnet‐Polyaniline‐Wax Composites
Authors: Choudhary Harish Kumar , Kumar Rajeev , Pawar Shital Patangrao , Anupama A. V. , Bose Suryasarathi , Sahoo Balaram
Published: February 2018

We report the physicochemical insight into the role of coral‐shaped yttrium‐iron‐garnet (YIG) particles for high electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding behaviour of YIG‐polyaniline (PANI)‐Wax composites. We studied the total shielding effectiveness (SET) of various compositions of the composites in X and Ku‐band frequencies (8‐18 GHz) and came upon with a critical concentration (20 wt% of YIG) for which SET is maximum (‐44.8 dB). At this critical concentration, the coral shape of YIG helps in effectively increasing the YIG‐PANI interfaces necessary for the multiple scattering of electromagnetic (EM) waves. The scattered microwave is then trapped within the dense coral‐network of YIG until they are absorbed therein by PANI via conduction loss; thereby, dramatically enhancing the microwave attenuation. The detailed EMI shielding mechanism is explained based on electrical and magnetic properties of the composites. Our result demonstrates the importance of morphology of the dielectric/magnetic particles and their concentration in the composites for designing an efficient EMI shield.
Chemical Reactivity and Quantifying the Intra‐ and Intermolecular Interactions in Zwitterionic Compounds
Authors: Kowsalya Perumal samy , Bhuvanesh Nattamai S. P. , Neelakantan Mallanpillai A.
Published: February 2018

A zwitterionic Schiff base, (E)‐2‐((2‐(1‐hydroxyethyl)phenyliminio)methyl‐6‐ methoxyphenolate (L1) was prepared and fully characterized by spectral methods. The crystal structure was determined by using single crystal X‐ray diffraction study. Inter and intra‐molecular interactions in L1 and similar zwitterionic Schiff bases (L2=(E)‐2‐(((2hydroxyethyl)iminio)phenyl)methyl‐5‐(prop‐2yn‐1‐yloxy)phenolate and L3=(E)‐2‐(2‐hydroxy‐3methoxybenzylideneammonio)‐3‐(1H‐imidazol‐3‐ium‐4‐yl) propanoate) have been established via topological analysis by considering the presence of (3,–1) bond critical points (BCP) between the interacting atoms using the approach of QTAIM (Quantum Theory of Atoms In Molecules) with the aid of ADF (Amsterdam Density Functional) 2017 package. Furthermore, Hirshfeld 2D fingerprint plots and 3D deformation densities were used to determine the interactions quantitatively. The L1‐L3 forms a six‐member pseudo cycle via an intramolecular N–H⋅⋅⋅O hydrogen bond, and the crystal structure is further stabilized by the presence of π⋅⋅⋅π stacking interactions. The effect of hydrogen bonding interactions of the molecule on infra red frequencies has been studied using DFTB (Density Functional based Tight Binding) method with ADF. The effect of intermolecular interactions of these compounds towards biomolecules was studied by using Auto Dock Vina and QTAIM analysis.
A Non‐Polarizable Three‐Site Water Model Reproduces the Density Anomaly of the Liquid
Authors: Nikitin Alexei M.
Published: February 2018

Computer‐efficient three‐site water models work with accuracy sufficient to describe the main properties of substance. However, to describe peculiar properties of water, such as the liquid density anomaly at 4 °C, multi‐site models are used. Nonetheless, it can be shown that a three‐site model is capable to reproduce the density anomaly as well as correct values for a number of other properties such as dielectric permittivity, heat of vaporization, self‐diffusion coefficient, and valence properties.
Photophysical and DFT Studies of Cationic Ag(I) Complexes with Thiosemicarbazides Derived from p‐Toluenesulfohydrazide
Authors: Borges Alice P. , Gaspari Ana P. S. , Oliveira Carolina G. , de Sousa Sinval F. , da Silva Roberto S. , Deflon Victor M. , Machado Antonio E. H. , Patrocínio Antonio O. T. , Maia Pedro I. S.
Published: February 2018

Reactions of p‐toluenesulfohydrazide with R‐isothiocyanates afford new ligands containing both the sulfonamide and thiosemicarbazide moieties (LR: R=cyclohexyl (Cy) or phenyl (Ph)). LR reacts with AgNO3 in EtOH in a 2:1 M ratio leading to formation of colourless Ag(I) complexes of general formula [Ag(LR)2]NO3. The crystal structure of a representative complex was determined by crystallographic studies and shows the Ag(I) coordinated by two thiosemicarbazide ligands in a S‐monodentate coordination mode along with a significant interaction with a nitrate counter‐ion in a bent geometry. Photophysical studies show that both the free ligands and complexes are essentially non‐luminescent at room temperature. At 77 K and glassy media, the silver complexes exhibit a luminescence band in the visible‐light region. Besides, experimental and theoretical analyses suggest the population of the triplet state of these complexes after electronic excitation at around 250 nm. Overall, it was verified that the observed emission of the Ag(I) complexes can be attributed to 3MLCT radiative decay and that the silver complex with LPh shows a higher intensity emission than the complex with LCy.
Identification of Small‐Molecule Inhibitors of PD‐1/PD‐L1 Protein‐Protein Interaction
Authors: Patil Sachin P. , Fink Madison A. , Enley Erika S. , Fisher James E. , Herb Marie C. , Klingos Anthony , Proulx James T. , Fedorky Megan T.
Published: February 2018

The protein‐protein interaction between programmed cell death protein 1 (PD‐1) and programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD−L1) proteins is one of the major checkpoint inhibition pathways responsible for the escape of tumors from immune destruction. Therefore, inhibition of the PD‐1/PD−L1 interaction presents an important therapeutic target against such tumors that express PD−L1 on their cell surface. Herein, we report structure‐based virtual screening of the National Cancer Institute Diversity Set compounds leading to the identification of several small‐molecule inhibitors of PD‐1/PD−L1 interaction. Top 4 molecules significantly inhibited PD‐1/PD−L1 interaction in a dose‐dependent manner, with the most active molecule (NSC149050) exhibiting ∼50% inhibition at 25 μM test concentration. This is remarkable considering it has a relatively low molecular weight and still is capable of inhibiting PD‐1/PD−L1 protein‐protein interaction whose binding interface spans over ∼1.970 Å2. Thus, these molecules may prove well suited for lead optimization studies leading to design of more potent analogs with improved drug‐like properties against this traditionally challenging anticancer target.
Simple Synthetic Method for the Functionalized Benzo[c]cinnolines
Authors: Lee Da Seul , Chatterjee Tanmay , Ban Jaeyoung , Rhee Hakjune , Cho Eun Jin
Published: February 2018

Functionalized benzo[c]cinnoline derivatives were synthesized from easily accessible 2,2‐diamino‐1,1′‐biaryls using a nitrite source. In this simple process, various functional groups were tolerated under mild reaction conditions, and the practicality of the process was demonstrated through the gram‐scale production of the benzo[c]cinnolines.
A DFT Study on CuH‐Catalyzed Reductive Relay Hydroamination for Synthesis of Remote‐Chiral Amine
Authors: Gao Yun , Wang Ping , Zhao Yang , Liu Qingyun , Liu Wei , Wang Yong
Published: February 2018

The reaction mechanism of copper‐hydride‐catalyzed reductive relay hydroamination for remote‐chiral amine was studied. Using density functional theory, we carefully investigated the mechanistic of the generation of R‐ and S‐amines with stereocenters. A series of steps, such as Markovnikov hydrocupration, β‐alkoxide elimination of alkylcopper, insertion of terminal alkene with copper‐hydride catalyst, the electrophile attack, and the formation of C–N bonds have been discussed in the catalytic cycle. The most favorable pathway is obtained by the Re‐attack of the catalyst with the allylic ester. In addition, noncovalent interaction (NCI) analyses show stronger noncovalent interactions in transition state Re‐TS1, frontier molecular orbital (FMO) reveal a larger lowest unoccupied molecular orbital and the highest occupied molecular orbital (LUMO‐HOMO) gap in transition state Si‐TS1, indicating the preference for the S‐configuration chiral amines, which is in good agreement with the experimental observations.
Bifunctional Al2O3 Interlayer Leads to Enhanced Open‐Circuit Voltage for Hole‐Conductor‐Free Carbon‐Based Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Xiong Yuli , Zhu Xiaotong , Mei Anyi , Qin Fei , Liu Shuang , Zhang Shujing , Jiang Youyu , Zhou Yinhua , Han Hongwei
Published: February 2018

Hole‐conductor‐free carbon‐based perovskite solar cell (C‐PSC) is respected for their low cost and super stability. However, its absolut e efficiency is hampered by the relatively low open‐circuit voltage (Voc) due to the higher recombination losses than device with hole conductors. Herein, we develop a novel architecture to improve the Voc through simple incorporation of an Al2O3 interlayer. We find that this Al2O3 interlayer not only serves as an excellent insulating layer to separate cathode and anode but also modifies the interface between the electron transport material (ETM) and perovskite, and thus effectively retards the recombination at ETM/perovskite and perovskite/counter electrode interfaces simultaneously. Significantly, the average Voc of hole‐conductor‐free C‐PSC upon the adoption of Al2O3 interlayer is increased from 836 to 942 mV. This novel architecture design combine the surface modification and spacer tuning technologies through a facile step, which makes an important step toward obtaining high efficient hole‐conductor‐free C‐PSC.
Home blood‐pressure monitoring in a hypertensive pregnant population
Authors: Perry H. , Sheehan E. , Thilaganathan B. , Khalil A.
Published: February 2018

Objective

The majority of patients with chronic or gestational hypertension do not develop pre‐eclampsia. Home blood‐pressure monitoring (HBPM) has the potential to offer a more accurate and acceptable means of monitoring hypertensive patients during pregnancy compared with traditional pathways of frequent outpatient monitoring. The aim of this study was to determine whether HBPM reduces visits to antenatal services and is safe in pregnancy.

Methods

This was a case–control study of 166 hypertensive pregnant women, which took place at St George's Hospital, University of London. Inclusion criteria were: chronic hypertension, gestational hypertension or high risk of developing pre‐eclampsia, no significant proteinuria (≤ 1+ proteinuria on dipstick testing) and normal biochemical and hematological markers. Exclusion criteria were maternal age < 16 years, systolic blood pressure > 155 mmHg or diastolic blood pressure > 100 mmHg, significant proteinuria (≥ 2+ proteinuria on dipstick testing or protein/creatinine ratio > 30 mg/mmol), evidence of small‐for‐gestational age (estimated fetal weight < 10th centile), signs of severe pre‐eclampsia, significant mental health concerns or insufficient understanding of the English language. Pregnant women in the HBPM group were taught how to measure and record their blood pressure using a validated machine at home and attended every 1–2 weeks for assessment depending on clinical need. The control group was managed as per the local protocol prior to the implementation of HBPM. The two groups were compared with respect to number of visits to antenatal services and outcome.

Results

There were 108 women in the HBPM group and 58 in the control group. There was no difference in maternal age, parity, body mass index, ethnicity or smoking status between the groups, but there were more women with chronic hypertension in the HBPM group compared with the control group (49.1% vs 25.9%, P = 0.004). The HBPM group had significantly fewer outpatient attendances per patient (6.5 vs 8.0, P = 0.003) and this difference persisted when taking into account differences in duration of monitoring (0.8 vs 1.6 attendances per week, P < 0.001). There was no difference in the incidence of adverse maternal, fetal or neonatal outcome between the two groups.

Conclusion

HBPM in hypertensive pregnancies has the potential to reduce the number of hospital visits required by patients without compromising maternal and pregnancy outcomes. Copyright © 2018 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Political Dynasties and the Incumbency Advantage in Party-Centered Environments
Authors: FIVA JON H. , SMITH DANIEL M.
Published: February 2018

A handful of recent studies have investigated the causal effect of incumbency on dynasty formation in candidate-centered electoral contexts. We use candidate-level data and a regression discontinuity design to estimate the incumbency advantage and its relation to dynasty formation in the party-centered, closed-list, proportional-representation setting of Norway. The results indicate that the incumbency advantage exists even in this party-centered environment; however, in contrast to recent findings for the United States and the Philippines, we find no evidence that incumbency is important to the formation of dynasties. This finding underscores the need for more research into the role of internal party organizational networks in the perpetuation of political dynasties.
Risk factors of teat-end hyperkeratosis and its association with udder health in dairy ewes
Authors: Vouraki Sotiria , Gelasakis Athanasios I. , Rose Ian J. , Arsenos Georgios
Published: February 2018

This study tested the hypotheses that machine milked dairy sheep have a high prevalence of teat-end hyperkeratosis (TEH), which contributes to udder health problems. A random sample of 1360 milking ewes from 28 dairy sheep farms was monitored. Milking procedures, milking parlour characteristics and maintenance were recorded during a designated on farm audit; records were obtained through observations and interviews with farmers. Number of ewes/milker, ewes/milking unit and milkings/milking unit were calculated. Vacuum level, pulsation rate and ratio were measured. Four combinations of vacuum level and pulsation rate were defined; <40 kPa and <150 cycles/min (VP1), <40 kPa and ≥150 cycles/min (VP2), ≥40 kPa and <150 cycles/min (VP3), ≥40 kPa and ≥150 cycles/min (VP4). California Mastitis Test (CMT; scores 0–4) was done on all ewes. Then the udder of each ewe was assessed for TEH (scores 1–4) and ewes were assigned into three groups according to TEH severity (no or mild, medium and severe TEH). Severe TEH (scores 3 and 4) prevalence at teat-level was ca. 13%. TEH severity was associated with the combination of vacuum level and pulsation rate; ewes milked with VP4 combination were more likely to have a one-level increase on TEH severity compared to ewes milked with VP2 and VP3 combinations. More ewes/milker and less ewes/milking unit increased the likelihood of a one-level increase on TEH severity. Finally, ewes with severe TEH were more likely to have a one-level increase on CMT score. Therefore, our hypotheses that TEH is prevalent in dairy ewes and contributes to udder health problems were confirmed. Additionally, farmers can reduce TEH prevalence by optimising the way they milk and their milking parlour.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of the incidence of psychotic disorders: the distribution of rates and the influence of gender, urbanicity, immigration and socio-economic level
Authors: Castillejos M. C. , Martín-Pérez C. , Moreno-Küstner B.
Published: February 2018

Background

Considering existing knowledge on the relationship between certain environmental factors and incidence rates of psychosis, we carried out a systematic review to provide a broad and updated picture of the incidences of different psychotic disorder subgroups worldwide and how some environmental factors influence these rates.

Methods

Studies with original data related to the incidence of psychosis (published between 2000 and 2015) were identified via searching electronic databases (CINAHL, MEDLINE, PSYCINFO, PUBMED, and SCOPUS). Data on the following risk factors were extracted: gender, urbanicity, immigration and socio-economic level. Descriptive appraisals of variation in incidence rates (IR) and incidence rate ratios (IRR), with a 95% confidence interval were calculated. In addition, a meta-analysis was performed to calculate IR pooled by diagnosis group and IRR pooled by diagnosis and gender, urbanity, immigration and socio-economic level, using a random effects model.

Results

We identified 33 reports to analyse. Overall IR per 100 000 persons for non-affective psychoses (IR pooled = 22.53 (16.51–28.54)) were higher than affective psychoses (IR pooled = 7.12 (5.03–9.22)). There was an increase in rates of psychosis in menv.women (IRR pooled = 1.54 (1.37–1.72)), in urbanv.rural areas (IRR pooled = 1.64 (1.38–1.95)), in immigrantsv.natives (IRR pooled = 3.09 (2.74–3.49)), and in lower socio-economic level areas (IRR pooled = 1.78 (1.43–2.22)).

Conclusions

IR among different psychotic disorders was found to vary depending on gender, urbanicity, and immigration (as most of the previous literature focuses on non-affective psychosis or schizophrenia).
Genetic and hybrid algorithms for optimization of non-singular 3

P

RR planar parallel kinematics mechanism for machining application
Authors: Rosyid Abdur , El-Khasawneh Bashar , Alazzam Anas
Published: February 2018

This paper proposes a special non-symmetric topology of a 3PRR planar parallel kinematics mechanism, which naturally avoids singularity within the workspace and can be utilized for hybrid kinematics machine tools. Subsequently, single-objective and multi-objective optimizations are conducted to improve the performance. The workspace area and minimum eigenvalue, as well as the condition number of the homogenized Cartesian stiffness matrix across the workspace, have been chosen as the objectives in the optimization based on their relevance to the machining application. The single-objective optimization is conducted by using a single-objective genetic algorithm and a hybrid algorithm, whereas the multi-objective optimization is conducted by using a multi-objective genetic algorithm, a weighted sum single-objective genetic algorithm, and a weighted sum hybrid algorithm. It is shown that the single-objective optimization gives superior value in the optimized objective, while sacrificing the other objectives, whereas the multi-objective optimization compromises the improvement of all objectives by providing non-dominated values. In terms of the algorithms, it is shown that a hybrid algorithm can either verify or refine the optimal value obtained by a genetic algorithm.
EMC microwave absorber for outdoor applications
Authors: Kubacki Roman , Głuszewski Wojciech , Laskowski Dariusz , Rudyk Karol , Kuchta Marek
Published: February 2018

In some circumstances, electromagnetic compatibility testing must be performed not in a specialized anechoic chamber, but in an open space. However, typical absorbers used in anechoic chambers to absorb incident radiation and to reduce the amount of rays reflected from the walls and the floor, such as ferrite tiles and graphite cones, are not suitable in an open space. In this work, we present the design and a test for the absorbing material, which can successfully be used in a tent or in a similar light and portable structure. The proposed composite material is flexible, has good absorbing and mechanical properties as well as low reflectivity. As an absorber, the nanocrystalline iron alloy with graphite, mixed with an elastomer was proposed. This material was additionally exposed to the ionizing radiation in the dose of 100 kGy in the radioactive gamma source (60Co). The permittivity, permeability, and the shielding properties of the material have been analyzed as well.
LRS-Prävention bei Risikokindern: Langfristige Effekte bis in die 3. Klasse
Authors: Moraske Svenja , Wyschkon Anne , Poltz Nadine , Kucian Karin , von Aster Michael , Esser Günter
Published: February 2018

Zusammenfassung.Fragestellung: Ziel der Studie war die Überprüfung der Wirksamkeit einer vorschulischen Förderung der phonologischen Bewusstheit und der Buchstaben-Laut-Verknüpfung bei Kindern mit einem Risiko für die Entwicklung einer Lese-Rechtschreibstörung (LRS) unter Bedingungen, die sich am Alltag der Kindertagesstätten orientierten und somit auch bei einem breiten Einsatz des Programms eine relativ ökonomische Variante darstellen. Methodik: Die Risikokinder der Trainingsgruppe (n = 20) wurden über 11 Wochen mit den Programmen Hören, Lauschen, Lernen 1 und 2 ( Küspert & Schneider, 2008 ; Plume & Schneider, 2004 ) von Erzieherinnen gefördert. Sie wurden einer nicht-geförderten Risiko-Kontrollgruppe (n = 43) hinsichtlich ihrer Lese- und Rechtschreibleistungen sowie der Häufigkeit von LRS von der 1. bis zur 3. Klasse gegenübergestellt. Dabei wurden neben den Daten regulär eingeschulter Kinder auch jene in die Analyse inkludiert, die vom Schulbesuch zurückgestellt wurden. Ergebnisse: Im 1. und 2. Grundschuljahr zeigten die trainierten Risikokinder im Lesen und Rechtschreiben einen mindestens tendenziellen Leistungsvorsprung gegenüber nicht-geförderten Risikokindern. Trainingseffekte zeigten sich ebenfalls in einer Reduktion der Anzahl von Kindern mit LRS bis Klasse 2, tendenziell auch in Klasse 3. Schlussfolgerung: Insgesamt sprechen die Befunde für die Wirksamkeit des Trainings in der primären Prävention von Lese-Rechtschreibschwierigkeiten bei Risikokindern unter alltagsnahen Bedingungen.
Transcriptional patterns identify resource controls on the diazotrophTrichodesmiumin the Atlantic and Pacific oceans
Authors: Rouco Mónica , Frischkorn Kyle R , Haley Sheean T , Alexander Harriet , Dyhrman Sonya T
Published: February 2018

The N2-fixing cyanobacterium Trichodesmium is intensely studied because of the control this organism exerts over the cycling of carbon and nitrogen in the low nutrient ocean gyres. Although iron (Fe) and phosphorus (P) bioavailability are thought to be major drivers of Trichodesmium distributions and activities, identifying resource controls on Trichodesmium is challenging, as Fe and P are often organically complexed and their bioavailability to a single species in a mixed community is difficult to constrain. Further, Fe and P geochemistries are linked through the activities of metalloenzymes, such as the alkaline phosphatases (APs) PhoX and PhoA, which are used by microbes to access dissolved organic P (DOP). Here we identified significant correlations between Trichodesmium-specific transcriptional patterns in the North Atlantic (NASG) and North Pacific Subtropical Gyres (NPSG) and patterns in Fe and P biogeochemistry, with the relative enrichment of Fe stress markers in the NPSG, and P stress markers in the NASG. We also observed the differential enrichment of Fe-requiring PhoX transcripts in the NASG and Fe-insensitive PhoA transcripts in the NPSG, suggesting that metalloenzyme switching may be used to mitigate Fe limitation of DOP metabolism in Trichodesmium. This trait may underpin Trichodesmium success across disparate ecosystems.
Co-inhibition of BET proteins and NF-κB as a potential therapy for colorectal cancer through synergistic inhibiting MYC and FOXM1 expressions
Authors: Wu Tingyu , Wang Guanghui , Chen Wei , Zhu Zhehui , Liu Yun , Huang Zhenyu , Huang Yuji , Du Peng , Yang Yili , Liu Chen-Ying , Cui Long
Published: February 2018

The bromodomain and extra-terminal domain inhibitors (BETi) are promising epigenetic drugs for the treatment of various cancers through suppression of oncogenic transcription factors. However, only a subset of colorectal cancer (CRC) cells response to BETi. We investigate additional agents that could be combined with BETi to overcome this obstacle. JQ1-resistant CRC cells were used for screening of the effective combination therapies with JQ1. RNA-seq was performed to explore the mechanism of synergistic effect. The efficacy of combinational treatment was tested in the CRC cell line- and patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models. In BETi-sensitive CRC cells, JQ1 also impaired tumor angiogenesis through the c-myc/miR-17-92/CTGF+THBS1 axis. CTGF knockdown moderately counteracted anti-angiogenic effect of JQ1 and led to partially attenuated tumor regression. JQ1 decreased c-myc expression and NF-κB activity in BETi-sensitive CRC cells but not in resistant cells. Bortezomib synergistically sensitized BETi-resistant cells to the JQ1 treatment, and JQ1+Bortezomib induced G2/M arrest in CRC cells. Mechanistically, inhibition of NF-κB by Bortezomib or NF-κB inhibitor or IKK1/2 siRNA all rendered BETi-resistant cells more sensitive to BETi by synergistic repression of c-myc, which in turn induces GADD45s’ expression, and by synergistic repression of FOXM1 which in turn inhibit G2/M checkpoint genes’ expression. Activation of NF-κB by IκBα siRNA induced resistance to JQ1 in BETi-sensitive CRC cells. Last, JQ1+Bortezomib inhibited tumor growth and angiogenesis in CRC cell line xenograft model and four PDX models. Our results indicate that anti-angiogenic effect of JQ1 plays a vital role in therapeutic effect of JQ1 in CRC, and provide a rationale for combined inhibition of BET proteins and NF-κB as a potential therapy for CRC.
Sheep genome functional annotation reveals proximal regulatory elements contributed to the evolution of modern breeds
Authors: Naval-Sanchez Marina , Nguyen Quan , McWilliam Sean , Porto-Neto Laercio R. , Tellam Ross , Vuocolo Tony , Reverter Antonio , Perez-Enciso Miguel , Brauning Rudiger , Clarke Shannon , McCulloch Alan , Zamani Wahid , Naderi Saeid , Rezaei Hamid Reza , Pompanon Francois , Taberlet Pierre , Worley Kim C. , Gibbs Richard A. , Muzny Donna M. , Jhangiani Shalini N. , Cockett Noelle , Daetwyler Hans , Kijas James
Published: February 2018

Domestication fundamentally reshaped animal morphology, physiology and behaviour, offering the opportunity to investigate the molecular processes driving evolutionary change. Here we assess sheep domestication and artificial selection by comparing genome sequence from 43 modern breeds (Ovis aries) and their Asian mouflon ancestor (O. orientalis) to identify selection sweeps. Next, we provide a comparative functional annotation of the sheep genome, validated using experimental ChIP-Seq of sheep tissue. Using these annotations, we evaluate the impact of selection and domestication on regulatory sequences and find that sweeps are significantly enriched for protein coding genes, proximal regulatory elements of genes and genome features associated with active transcription. Finally, we find individual sites displaying strong allele frequency divergence are enriched for the same regulatory features. Our data demonstrate that remodelling of gene expression is likely to have been one of the evolutionary forces that drove phenotypic diversification of this common livestock species.
Long-term optical brain imaging in live adult fruit flies
Authors: Huang Cheng , Maxey Jessica R. , Sinha Supriyo , Savall Joan , Gong Yiyang , Schnitzer Mark J.
Published: February 2018

Time-lapse in vivo microscopy studies of cellular morphology and physiology are crucial toward understanding brain function but have been infeasible in the fruit fly, a key model species. Here we use laser microsurgery to create a chronic fly preparation for repeated imaging of neural architecture and dynamics for up to 50 days. In fly mushroom body neurons, we track axonal boutons for 10 days and record odor-evoked calcium transients over 7 weeks. Further, by using voltage imaging to resolve individual action potentials, we monitor spiking plasticity in dopamine neurons of flies undergoing mechanical stress. After 24 h of stress, PPL1-α’3 but not PPL1-α’2α2 dopamine neurons have elevated spike rates. Overall, our chronic preparation is compatible with a broad range of optical techniques and enables longitudinal studies of many biological questions that could not be addressed before in live flies.
Uniform two-dimensional square assemblies from conjugated block copolymers driven by π–π interactions with controllable sizes
Authors: Han Liang , Wang Meijing , Jia Xiangmeng , Chen Wei , Qian Hujun , He Feng
Published: February 2018

Two-dimensional (2-D) micro- and nano-architectures are attractive because of their unique properties. However, the formation of 2-D supramolecular highly symmetrical structures with considerable control is still a major challenge. Here we present a simple approach for the preparation of regular and homogeneous 2-D fluorescent square non-crystallization micelles with conjugated diblock copolymers PPV12-b-P2VP
n
through a process of dissolving–cooling–aging. The scale of the formed micelles can be controlled by the ratio of PPV/P2VP blocks and the concentration of the solution. The results reveal that the micelles of PPV12-b-P2VP
n
initially form 1-D structures and then grow into 2-D structures in solution, and the growth is driven by intermolecular π–π interactions with the PPV12 blocks. The formation of 2-D square micelles is induced by herringbone arrangement of the molecules, which is closely related to the presence of the branched alkyl chains attached to conjugated PPV12 cores.