bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Global changes of miRNA expression indicates an increased reprogramming efficiency of induced mammary epithelial cells by repression of miR-222-3p in fibroblasts
Authors: Liu Mingxing , Liu Siyi , Qin Liangshan , Lv Danwei , Wang Guodong , Liu Quanhui , Huang Ben , Zhang Dandan
Published: July 2024

Background

Our previous studies have successfully reported the reprogramming of fibroblasts into induced mammary epithelial cells (iMECs). However, the regulatory relationships and functional roles of MicroRNAs (miRNAs) in the progression of fibroblasts achieving the cell fate of iMECs are insufficiently understood.

Methods

First, we performed pre-and post-induction miRNAs sequencing analysis by using high-throughput sequencing. Following that, Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment studies were used to determine the primary roles of the significantly distinct miRNAs and targeted genes. Finally, the effect of miR-222-3p on iMECs fate reprogramming in vitro by transfecting.

Results

As a result goat ear fibroblasts (GEFs) reprogramming into iMECs activates a regulatory program, involving 79 differentially expressed miRNAs. Besides, the programming process involved changes in multiple signaling pathways such as adherens junction, TGF-β signaling pathway, GnRH secretion and the prolactin signaling pathway, etc. Furthermore, it was discovered that the expression of miR-222-3p downregulation by miR-222-3p inhibitor significantly increase the reprogramming efficiency and promoted lipid accumulation of iMECs.
Estimation of reference evapotranspiration using some class-A pan evaporimeter pan coefficient estimation models in Mediterranean–Southeastern Anatolian transitional zone conditions of Turkey
Authors: Usta Selçuk
Published: July 2024

Background

Reference evapotranspiration (ETo), which is used as the basic data in many studies within the scope of hydrology, meteorology, irrigation and soil sciences, can be estimated by using the evaporation (Epan) measured from the class-A pan evaporimeter. However, this method requires reliable pan coefficients (Kp). Many empirical models are used to estimate Kp coefficients. The reliability of these models varies depending on climatic and environmental conditions. Therefore, they need to be tested in the local conditions where they will be used. In this study, conducted in Kahramanmaraş, which has a semi-arid Mediterranean climate in Turkey during the July–October periods of 2020 and 2021, aimed to determine the usability levels of six Kp models in estimating daily and monthly average ETo.

Methods

The Kp coefficients estimated by the models were multiplied with the daily Epan values, and the daily average ETo values were estimated on the basis of the model. The daily Epan values were measured using an ultrasonic sensor sensitive to the water surface placed on the class-A pan evaporimeter. The ultrasonic sensor was managed by a programmable logic controller (PLC). To enable the sensor to be managed by PLC, a software was prepared using the CODESYS programming language and uploaded to the PLC. The daily average ETo values determined by the FAO-56 Penman–Monteith equation were accepted as actual values. The ETo values estimated by the Kp models were compared with the actual ETo values using the mean absolute error (MAE), mean absolute percentage error (MAPE), root mean square error (RMSE) and determination coefficient (R2) statistical approaches.

Results

The Wahed & Snyder outperformed the other models in estimating daily (MAE = 0.78 mm day−1, MAPE = 14.40%, RMSE = 0.97 mm day−1, R2 = 0.82) and monthly (MAE = 0.32 mm day−1, MAPE = 5.88%, RMSE = 0.32 mm day−1, R2 = 0.99) average ETo. FAO-56 showed the nearest performance to Wahed & Snyder. The Snyder model presented the worst performance in estimating daily (MAE = 2.09 mm day−1, MAPE = 37.53%, RMSE = 2.36 mm day−1, R2 = 0.82) and monthly (MAE = 1.83 mm day−1, MAPE = 31.82%, RMSE = 1.87 mm day−1, R2 = 0.99) average ETo. It has been concluded that none of the six Kp models can be used to estimate the daily ETo in Kahramanmaraş located in the Mediterranean–Southeastern Anatolian transitional zone, and only Wahed & Snyder and FAO-56 can be used to estimate the monthly ETo without calibration.
Whole-brain radiation therapy plus simultaneous integrated boost for brain metastases from breast cancers
Authors: Zhang Hongyan , Wu Qiuji , Li Li , Wang Linwei , Zhong Yahua
Published: July 2024

Background

The effect of whole-brain radiation therapy (WBRT) plus simultaneous integrated boost (SIB) in brain metastasis from breast cancers has not been demonstrated.

Method

In this single-center retrospective study, we reviewed consecutive breast cancer patients who developed brain metastasis and were treated with hypofractionated radiation therapy plus WBRT using intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT)-SIB approaches. We analyzed clinical outcomes, prognostic factors and patterns of treatment failure.

Result

A total of 27 patients were eligible for analysis. Four (14.8%) patients achieved clinical complete response and 14 (51.9%) had partial response of brain lesions. The other nine patients were not evaluated for brain tumor response. The median brain progression-free survival was 8.60 (95% CI [6.43–13.33]) months and the median overall survival was 16.8 (95% CI [13.3–27.7]) months. Three patients had in-field failure, five had out-field failure and two had in-field and out-field failure.

Conclusion

WBRT plus SIB led to improved tumor control and clinical outcome in breast cancer patients with brain metastasis.
Microplastic from beach sediment to tissue: a case study on burrowing crab Dotilla blanfordi
Authors: Zala Hiralba , Rabari Vasantkumar , Patel Krupal , Patel Heris , Yadav Virendra Kumar , Patel Ashish , Sahoo Dipak Kumar , Trivedi Jigneshkumar
Published: July 2024

Background

Microplastics (MPs) are pervasive pollutants in the marine environment, exhibiting persistence in coastal sediment over extended periods. However, the mechanism of their uptake by marine organisms and distribution in habitat is less understood. The objective of the present study was to investigate the presence of MP contamination in burrow sediment, feeding pellets, and tissue of Dotilla blanfordi in the Gulf of Kachchh, Gujarat State.

Methods

A total of 500 g of burrow sediment, 100 g of feeding pellets, and body tissue of 10 resident D. blanfordi were pooled as one replica. Such seven replicas from each site were analyzed for MP extraction from three sites, including Asharmata, Mandvi, and Serena, located in the Gulf of Kachchh. The standard protocol was used during the analysis of the collected samples in order to isolate MPs.

Results

The abundance of MP was found higher in burrow sediment, feeding pellets and tissue of D. blanfordi at study site Mandvi, followed by Serena and Asharmata. The abundance of MP was found higher in D. blanfordi tissue, followed by burrow sediment and feeding pellet. A significant variation was observed in MP abundance among burrow sediment, feeding pellets, and tissue. MPs with various shapes (fiber, film, and fragment), sizes (1–2, 2–3, 3–4, and 4–5 mm), and colors (blue, green, black, pink, purple, red transparent) were recorded from all the study sites. Polyurethane and polyvinyl chloride were recognized as the chemical profile of the extracted MPs. The current investigation revealed greater accumulation of MPs in D. blanfordi’s tissues compared to sediment and pellets, suggesting a risk of MP contamination in marine benthic fauna with a greater rate of bioaccumulation. D. blanfordi plays a significant role as a structuring agent for MP distribution in the intertidal flat through burrowing activity.
Liverwort and hornwort collections of Heinar Streimann from Vanuatu
Authors: Pócs Tamás
Published: July 2024

From the rich Vanuatu bryophyte collections of the late Heinar Streimann, 29 liverworts and one hornwort species were identified. One genus (Schiffneriolejeunea) and 16 species proved to be new records for the islands, 6 of them new to the whole Pacific realm.
El respeto : un análisis comparativo entre los objetivos transversales y las competencias fundamentales del currículo de Chile y de República Dominicana
Authors:   , Figaro Kelly de Anderson Asfia
Published: July 2024

La presente investigación tiene como objetivo comprender las nociones de respeto presentes en los Objetivos de Aprendizaje Transversales del currículo chileno y en las Competencias Fundamentales del currículo de República Dominicana, a partir de una caracterización de las similitudes y diferencias en el abordaje curricular. En ese sentido, esta investigación pretende estudiar el respeto como un contenido curricular, a través de un análisis comparativo del currículo chileno y dominicano. Este estudio es iterativo y fronético, ya que en él se torna a la literatura revisada y se incorporan nuevas lecturas conforme avanza el mismo (Tracy, 2020). Asimismo, el enfoque metodológico utilizado se enmarca en el paradigma cualitativo. Este se orienta al estudio, en profundidad, del concepto de respeto presente en el apartado Objetivos de Aprendizajes Transversales de las Bases Curriculares (Ministerio de Educación [MINEDUC], 2015a) de 7° a 1° medio de Chile, en el apartado de Competencias Fundamentales de las Bases de la Revisión y Actualización Curricular (Ministerio de Educación [MINERD], 2016a) de República Dominicana y en el Diseño Curricular, Nivel Secundario, segundo Ciclo (MINERD, 2018) del mismo país. Para llevar a cabo el análisis de estos documentos ministeriales, se emplean categorías de análisis correspondientes a la noción de respeto de las propuestas de Audley (2019) y Goodman (2009). Además, se establece un abordaje curricular del concepto que atiende a los pilares de la educación propuesto por Delors (1996), los cuales son fusionados con las funciones de cualificación y subjetivación planteadas por Biesta (2009). Como principales hallazgos de este estudio, es posible mencionar que, tanto en el currículo chileno como en el dominicano, se aprecia la noción de respeto relacional, mutuo y debido. Sin embargo, no se hace referencia a las nociones de respeto unilateral y ganado. Con relación al abordaje curricular, en los Objetivos de Aprendiza Transversal predomina un aprendizaje desde el Aprender a vivir juntos, mientras que en las Competencias Fundamentales prevalece el Aprender a ser (función de subjetivación).
Naturaleza y Trabajo. Cómo las crisis ecológicas afectan a la agencia laboral en la salmonicultura chilena
Authors:   , Velásquez Orellana Diego
Published: July 2024

La tesis analiza cómo la naturaleza afecta a la agencia laboral en la industria salmonera chilena, enfocándose en las crisis socio-ecológicas del brote del virus ISA y el florecimiento de algas nocivas. La tesis propone una estructura argumentativa en la cual se describen la trayectoria de la agencia laboral de los sindicatos, los actores involucrados en las crisis y sus acciones, seguido por un análisis del territorio en el contexto del régimen laboral salmonero. Se resalta la necesidad de comprender la relación entre naturaleza y agencia laboral a través de la historia sindical y los cambios ocurridos después de las crisis. e argumenta la necesidad de comprender los fenómenos a través de distintas escalas geográficas y se emplean tres cuerpos teóricos: la teoría del proceso de trabajo, la teoría de regímenes laborales y la teoría de las redes globales de producción.La metodología combina métodos cualitativos como proceso tracing y dependencia de caminos, apoyándose en tres marcos teóricos: la teoría del proceso de trabajo, regímenes laborales y redes globales de producción. Se destaca la importancia de comprender la relación entre naturaleza y agencia laboral a través de la historia sindical y los cambios post-crisis. Los principales hallazgos revelan una doble contribución: primero, al describir la historia de los trabajadores y sindicatos del salmón, usualmente marginados en la literatura laboral, ofreciendo así un aporte significativo a los estudios del trabajo en el sector. Se evidencia cómo la proletarización, la organización sindical y las luchas laborales se vieron truncadas por las crisis socio-ecológicas, especialmente por el brote del virus ISA, forzando un cambio en las estrategias hacia mejoras en las condiciones laborales y fortalecimiento del Diálogo Social. Por otro lado, se identifica un vínculo causal entre la indeterminación de la naturaleza y la agencia laboral en la salmonicultura chilena. Las crisis impactaron los recursos de poder asociativo, estructural y societal de los trabajadores. La afiliación sindical se redujo por despidos masivos y se fragmentó debido a presiones del mercado global y nuevas regulaciones. El recurso estructural no se debilitó, sino que se reconfiguró ante estrategias intensivas exigidas por regulaciones gubernamentales y bancarias. En cuanto al recurso societal, las crisis agudizaron la contradicción entre protección del empleo y conservación ambiental, debilitando la relación de los trabajadores con la comunidad.
Estilística y traducción: análisis comparativo de una selección de cuentos de Poe traducidos por Cortázar
Authors:   , Armijo Gallero Gracia
Published: July 2024

Esta investigación se basa en el estudio estilístico de la traducción de los cuentos "The Black Cat" y "The Tell-Tale Heart" de Edgar Allan Poe, realizadas por Julio Cortázar para poder observar si existe una tendencia de Julio Cortázar hacia su estilo como autor literario en sus traducciones de los cuentos seleccionados. Se analizaron las diferencias entre textos originales y traducciones, enfocándose en los elementos lingüísticos de complejidad de las oraciones y uso de puntuación, observando también la presencia de tendencias deformantes presentes en la traducción literaria explicadas por Berman (2014), en específico la racionalización, el alargamiento y la destrucción de los ritmos. Como referencia del estilo literario propio de Julio Cortázar, se analizaron los elementos lingüísticos elegidos en suscuentos "Carta a una Señorita en París" y "Casa Tomada". No se encontraron diferencias estilísticas significativas entre las traducciones y las versiones originales de los cuentos seleccionados de Poe, sin embargo, se pudieron observar las tendencias deformantes elegidas y algunas diferencias entre texto fuente y texto meta que podían mostrar un indicio de influencia de su estilo por parte de Julio Cortázar. Por otro lado, en el ámbito de la clasificación de las oraciones en los textos que conforman el corpus de esta investigación, se lograron encontrar similitudes en el estilo literario de Julio Cortázar de los cuentos seleccionados de su autoría y el estilo literario en los cuentos seleccionados de Edgar Allan Poe (en su idioma original). Adicionalmente, se estableció una relación entre las tendencias deformantes observadas y el nivel de complejidad de las oraciones.
Association between Vision-related Quality of Life and Mental Health Status among Glaucoma Patients in a Tertiary Care Hospital, Uttar Pradesh, India: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Gupta Alka , Singh Astha , Sharma Kumudini , Khan Haseeb , Tiwari Deepti , Trivedi Astha , Mittal Bharat
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Glaucoma is a chronic, progressive optic neuropathy that can lead to blindness. It is a multifactorial disorder, with elevated Intraocular Pressure (IOP) being one of the modifiable risk factors. Glaucoma affects the emotional and psychological wellbeing of patients, even in the early stages of the disease, impacting their Quality of Life (QoL). Aim: To assess the association between vision-related QoL and mental health status among glaucoma patients. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted on 110 glaucoma patients aged 18 to 70 years who were residents of Barabanki district, Uttar Pradesh, India from September 2023 to December 2023. Glaucoma severity was graded based on mean deviation measured by visual field testing. Anxiety and depression levels were graded using the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A) and Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D). QoL was assessed using the Glaucoma QoL15 questionnaire. Data analysis was performed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 27.0, and the association between different variables was examined using Chi-square, Fisher’s exact test, and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) test. A p-value of <0.05 was considered significant. Results: Among the 110 participants, 47 (42.7%) were females and 63 (57.3%) were males, with an average age of 52.6±12.2 years. 56 (50.9%) had moderate anxiety, and 59 (53.6%) had moderate levels of depression. QoL factors assessed included peripheral vision, dark adaptation and glare, central and near vision, and outdoor mobility. Statistically significant differences were observed between different severity levels of glaucoma (p-value<0.05) in relation to these factors. A comparison of glaucoma severity, anxiety level, and depression level with QoL revealed a significant difference (p-value<0.001). Conclusion: Glaucoma impacts the mental health status of patients by causing anxiety and depression, as well as affecting their QoL. As the severity of glaucoma increases, anxiety and depression levels rise, while QoL decreases.
Exploring the Role of Chitosan: A Natural Solution for Plant Disease and Insect Management
Authors: Padamini Rajkumari , Bhumita Pukhram , Hazarika Sanjay , NM Ramesha , Gowda G R Vishwas , Chaturvedi Kushal , Panigrahi Chandan Kumar , Karanwal Rajshree
Published: July 2024

Chitosan is an eco-friendly and multipurpose biopolymer that is obtained from the deacetylation of chitin. It is a polysaccharide with several uses. Chitosan is a useful option in phytopathology because of its biocompatibility, biodegradability, and bioactivity. Two naturally occurring substances that may be used in agriculture to manage plant diseases are chitin and chitosan. It was found that these compounds are toxic and that they prevent the growth and development of fungi. According to reports, they were effective against viruses, bacteria, and other pests. When host plants are exposed to microbial infections, fragments of chitin and chitosan have been shown to elicit activities that trigger a range of defence responses, such as the accumulation of phytoalexins, pathogen-related (PR) proteins and proteinase inhibitors, lignin synthesis, and callose formation. Thus, the goal of this study is to give the reader current knowledge about the use of chitosan formulations as pest and diseases control tools as well as information about their potential uses.
Taxpayer Compliance: Can Accountant Commitment, Whistleblowing, and Tax System Modernization Impact?
Authors: Sormin Feber , Tarmidi Deden , Murwaningsari Etty
Published: July 2024

Aims: The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of Accountants' Professional Dedication, Whistleblowing Mechanism, and Modernization of Tax Administration System on Taxpayer Compliance among practicing accountants in Accounting Firms in Indonesia.
Methodology: This research utilizes a Quantitative Method with multiple regression analysis using statistical data analytics software SPSS. The primary data for this study was collected through a Google Form questionnaire from 87 practicing accountants employed at Accounting Firms.
Results: The findings suggest that Accountants' Professional Commitment and Tax Administration System Modernization do not affect Taxpayer Compliance, whereas the Whistleblowing Mechanism does have an influence on it. In simultaneous testing, all three independent variables studied collectively demonstrate a positive effect on the dependent variable.
Conclusion and Suggestion: This research outcome aims to provide practical insights, offer recommendations for government policy considerations, serve as educational material concerning the role of practicing accountants in improving Taxpayer Compliance, and serve as an academic resource for future researchers.
Transgenerational Effects of Maternal Health
Authors: Thompson Imomoemi Nwinam , Bademosi Adetomi , Ezeh Golda Lugesi , Ekesiobi Sandra Ujunwa
Published: July 2024

This study highlights the profound impact of maternal health on offspring well-being through transgenerational effects, extending beyond direct genetic inheritance. It emphasizes epigenetic modifications, intrauterine environment, and maternal lifestyle factors, influencing fetal programming and health trajectories across generations. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for developing targeted interventions to prevent intergenerational disease transmission and promote lifelong health. The seminar explores these complexities, examining mechanisms, implications for offspring health, and the role of environmental and socioeconomic factors. Current research underscores the importance of maternal health in shaping offspring outcomes, revealing associations with chronic diseases, neurodevelopmental disorders, and metabolic disorders. Epidemiological evidence supports these findings, emphasizing the need for interventions addressing health disparities and promoting health equity. Future research priorities include elucidating underlying mechanisms, integrating multi-omics approaches, and addressing societal and environmental determinants. Early intervention strategies, preventive measures, and policy recommendations are vital for mitigating adverse effects and improving maternal and offspring health outcomes, thereby breaking the cycle of intergenerational disease transmission and promoting health equity across generations.
Microalgae Incorporated in Bakery Products: Application to Millet Pretzel
Authors: Maiti Akash Kusum , Lal Aditya , Masih Harison
Published: July 2024

The objective of this study was to develop and physico-chemical analysis for a recipe for millet pretzels by using two different blends of foxtail millet and little millet flour, incorporated with Chlorella vulgaris microalgae biomass at varying concentrations of 0.6%, 0.8% and 1.0% (measured as grams per 100 grams of flour). For the pretzel samples labeled CW0.6, CW0.8 and CW1.0, the flour base consisted of 80% foxtail millet flour and 20% little millet flour. On the other hand, the samples labeled TS0.6, TS0.8 and TS1.0 were made using a base of 75% foxtail millet flour and 25% little millet flour. The research conducted a thorough analysis to understand how these different flour blends and the addition of microalgae impacted the physico - chemical properties of the final products. Additionally, the sensory quality was assessed by a semi-trained panelist based on color, appearance, taste, flavor, texture and overall quality. The study revealed that the combination of different flour blends and varying concentrations of microalgae had a significant impact on the protein content of the pretzels. Specifically, pretzels with 1% microalgae biomass stood out due to their high protein content, making them a nutritious option. However, pretzels formulated with 0.8% microalgae received higher scores in sensory evaluations, indicating that this concentration was more favorable in terms of taste and overall sensory experience. In terms of other physico - chemical properties, the moisture content of the pretzels ranged from 31.67% to 33.95%, and the ash content varied from 1.653% to 1.953%. The findings of this study suggest that it is feasible to produce millet pretzels incorporated with microalgae that are both nutritious and appealing to consumers. This research opens up new possibilities for developing healthy and tasty snack options using millet and microalgae.
Cross-sectional Study of HIV Infection and Implication of Demographic Dependent Risk among People in Three Local Government Areas in Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Nwalozie Rhoda , Obi-Thomas Jane Nkechi , Nnokam Brenda Anyakwe , Kareem Jubril Adeyinka
Published: July 2024

Background: HIV poses a substantial global health challenge, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where Nigeria grapples with a disproportionate burden. Three Local Government Area of Rivers State, Nigeria, known for distinctive HIV patterns, are the focus. In Nigeria, South-South presents with the highest rate of HIV infection in Nigeria.
Aim: This study aims to understand the relationships between HIV infection and various social, demographic, and non-HIV-specific modifiable factors.
Methodology: A cross-sectional study (N = 392) was carried out to explore these dynamics, examining marital status, education, employment, physical environment, age, sex, and non-HIV-specific factors like fever, weight loss, alcohol consumption, Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) status, and tuberculosis (TB). Chi-square was used to test the hypothesis at alpha level of 0.05.
Results: It revealed no significant relationship between age and HIV infection (p<0.05), and similarly, no significant gender association at p<0.05. However, marital status emerged as a significant factor (p<0.05), while educational status did not show significance at p<0.05. Modifiable non-HIV-specific factors, including Hepatitis, Fever, Weight Loss, HBsAg, and TB, exhibited significant associations with HIV at p<0.05.
Conclusion: This study has provided valuable insights into the complex interplay of social, demographic, and modifiable factors influencing HIV vulnerability in Nigeria's South-South region. The findings have implications for tailoring focused prevention and intervention strategies to mitigate HIV transmission risks in this specific region.
Impact of Plant Growth Regulators on Growth, Fruit Yield and Quality of Strawberry (Fragaria ananassa Duch.) cv. Winter Dawn
Authors: Gautam Manish Kumar , Mishra Saket
Published: July 2024

The present study aimed to investigate the impact of plant growth regulators on the growth, yield, and quality of strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch) cv. Winter Dawn. A total of ten treatments were examined, including control (Water Spray), individual treatments of NAA (Naphthalene Acetic Acid) and GA3(Gibberellic Acid) and BA(6-benzvladenine). The experiment was conducted under controlled conditions, and various parameters related to vegetative growth, quality, and yield were evaluated.
The results demonstrated that treatment T9, combination BA (6-benzyladenine) 75ppm exhibited superior vegetative growth characteristics. Plants treated with T9 displayed increased plant height, Number of leaves, plant spread, petiole length, chlorophyll content, and early onset of flowering and first fruiting. Moreover, T9 also demonstrated remarkable performance in terms of fruit production, with a higher number of fruits, flowers, and excellent fruit set, and TSS, Acidity (%), and Ascorbic acid.
These findings highlight the beneficial impact of plant growth regulators on the growth, yield, and quality of strawberry plants. The combined application of BA (6-benzyladenine) 75ppm (T9) resulted in superior vegetative growth. These results suggest that the incorporation of Plant growth regulators in strawberry cultivation practices can be a promising approach to optimize both yield and fruit quality. Further studies are warranted to understand the underlying mechanisms and optimize the application dosage and timing of these bio inputs for sustainable strawberry production.
Identifying Rare Variants Associated with Complex Traits via Sequencing
Authors: Li Bingshan , Liu Dajiang J. , Leal Suzanne M.
Published: July 2013

Although genome‐wide association studies have been successful in detecting associations with common variants, there is currently an increasing interest in identifying low‐frequency and rare variants associated with complex traits. Next‐generation sequencing technologies make it feasible to survey the full spectrum of genetic variation in coding regions or the entire genome. The association analysis for rare variants is challenging, and traditional methods are ineffective, however, due to the low frequency of rare variants, coupled with allelic heterogeneity. Recently a battery of new statistical methods has been proposed for identifying rare variants associated with complex traits. These methods test for associations by aggregating multiple rare variants across a gene or a genomic region or among a group of variants in the genome. In this unit, we describe key concepts for rare variant association for complex traits, survey some of the recent methods, discuss their statistical power under various scenarios, and provide practical guidance on analyzing next‐generation sequencing data for identifying rare variants associated with complex traits. Curr. Protoc. Hum. Genet. 78:1.26.1‐1.26.22. © 2013 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Gene Delivery to the Airway
Authors: Keiser Nicholas W. , Engelhardt John F.
Published: July 2013

This unit describes generation of and gene transfer to several commonly used airway models. Isolation and transduction of primary airway epithelial cells are first described. Next, the preparation of polarized airway epithelial monolayers is outlined. Transduction of these polarized cells is also described. Methods are presented for generation of tracheal xenografts, as well as both ex vivo and in vivo gene transfer to these xenografts. Finally, a method for in vivo gene delivery to the lungs of rodents is included. Methods for evaluating transgene expression are given in the support protocols. Curr. Protoc. Hum. Genet. 78:13.9.1‐13.9.41. © 2013 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Polymer Brushes
Authors: Hadjesfandiari Narges , Bajgai Madhab P. , Yu Kai , Brooks Donald E. , Kizhakkedathu Jayachandran N.
Published: July 2013

Polymer brushes are monolayers of one‐end tethered polymer chains at high graft density on a surface. Owing to the steric interactions between the tethered polymer chains within the brush regime, this class of polymer thin films has unique properties compared to the conventional polymer thin films. Polymer brushes provide an elegant route for surface modification owing to their excellent mechanical stability as well as functional versatility. Among the polymer brush synthesis methods, surface‐initiated polymerization (SIP) offers a unique opportunity for the generation of high graft density polymer brushes. Combined with controlled/living polymerization, the SIP method revolutionized the polymer brush synthesis and allowed the tailoring of surface properties of these molecular thin films. The control of surface properties provided new ways to change wettability, lubrication, and the interaction of biological macromolecules/cells to surfaces and created new opportunities in the design of responsive surfaces, smart materials, biocompatible surfaces, and various biotechnology and nanotechnology applications. This field is rapidly emerging with wide range of applications in multiple research fields and is promoting cross‐disciplinary research.
Microfluidic Production of Micro‐ and Nanoparticles
Authors: Serra Christophe A. , Khan Ikram Ullah , Cortese Bruno , de Croon Mart H. J. M. , Hessel Volker , Ono Tsutomu , Anton Nicolas , Vandamme Thierry
Published: July 2013

Polymeric micro‐ and nanoparticles have attracted a wide attention of researchers in various areas such as drug delivery, sensing, imaging, cosmetics, diagnostics, and biotechnology. However, processes with conventional equipment do not always allow a precise control of their morphology, size, size distribution, and composition. On the other hand, microreaction technology offers an improved control on the hydrodynamics, mass, and heat transfer, allowing the production of polymeric particles with better defined or new characteristics. Thus new horizons in polymer particle engineering arise from the use of microstructured or microfluidic devices. This article gives an insight into the latest developments and trends in the production of polymeric micro‐ and nanoparticles using microreaction technology directly from either monomers or polymer solutions.
Intelligent Cities and the Taxonomy of Cognitive Scales
Authors: Weinstock Michael , Gharleghi Mehran
Published: July 2013

Here, Guest‐Editor Michael Weinstock with Mehran Gharleghi of the EmTech programme at the Architectural Association (AA) School of Architecture in London shift the definition of the intelligent city away from one that is predicated on information and communication technologies towards a deeper and more profound characterisation. They explore the possibilities of cognitive complexity in urbanism emerging out of the interaction of sensory processing and behavioural responses to the world. Within the context of large infrastructural systems, what might, for instance, rapidly developing machine consciousness have in common with collective intelligence? What could the preliminary conceptual schema be for an intelligent city that is sufficiently self‐aware to synchronise its systems with climatic and ecological phenomena at regional and local scales?
Darwin Among the Machines
Authors: Self Jack
Published: July 2013

In the mid‐19th century, Samuel Butler in his article ‘Darwin among the Machines’ provided a theory for the iterative development of machines over time. Here, London‐based architect, theorist, editor and writer Jack Self casts ‘the modern city’ as ‘a multiplex superposition of network infrastructures’, defined by hierarchical systems of information and material exchange. He argues that current informational technologies have the power to conversely hyper‐centralise or hyper‐localise the city, thus either encouraging disengagement or nurturing engagement with the emergent social practices of the city's inhabitants.
Gold‐Catalyzed Highly Diastereoselective Synthesis of Functionalized 3,4‐Disubstituted Butyrolactams via Phosphatyloxy or Carbonate Double Migrations
Authors: Yang Weibo , Yu Yang , Zhang Tuo , Hansmann Max M. , Pflästerer Daniel , Hashmi A. Stephen K.
Published: July 2013

A gold‐catalyzed highly diastereoselective synthesis of functionalised 3,4‐disubstituted butyrolactams via phosphatyloxy or carbonate double migrations is reported, which is proposed to proceed by a tandem 1,3‐phosphatyloxy or carbonate migration and a “long‐range” 1,5‐phosphatyloxy or carbonate migration, which overall corresponds to a formal 1,6‐migration.
Arene CH Bond Functionalization Coupling with Cyclization of Allenes
Authors: Zeng Rong , Ye Juntao , Fu Chunling , Ma Shengming
Published: July 2013

Under the catalysis of a rhodium(III) complex, the cyclization of 2,3‐allenols was most probably initiated with the CH bond functionalization of N‐methoxybenzamides using the tetramethylcyclopentadiene anion (C5Me4−) as ligand, affording differently substituted 2,5‐dihydrofuran derivatives. Highly efficient axial‐to‐central chirality transfer has been observed.
Technological Advances in Soybean Yields: A Disaggregated Approach
Authors: Sanders Dwight R. , Altman Ira J. , Ferraro Nick
Published: July 2013

Increasing row crop productivity—as measured by yields per acre—is an important topic from a number of perspectives. On a global scale, increased output per unit of land is needed to meet growing world food demand. On a regional scale, investments in yield‐enhancing basic research need to result in improved yields for producers. In this research we set forth to quantify the impact of technology, precipitation, and temperature on soybean yields. Specifically, a disaggregated approach is used to model Illinois soybean yields across the nine state crop reporting districts. The results show that weather impacts are similar across the crop reporting districts; however, technology benefits accrue at statistically different rates across regions. The results provide no evidence that soybean yields in Illinois are plateauing [JEL Classifications: Q130, Q160, Q190].
Breaking the take home pesticide exposure pathway for agricultural families: Workplace predictors of residential contamination
Authors: Fenske Richard A. , Lu Chensheng , Negrete Maria , Galvin Kit
Published: July 2013

Background

Pesticides used in agriculture can be taken into worker homes and pose a potential risk for children and other family members. This study focused on identification of potential intervention points at the workplace.

Methods

Workers (N = 46) recruited from two tree fruit orchards in Washington State were administered a 63‐item pesticide safety questionnaire. Dust was collected from commuter vehicles and worker homes and analyzed for four organophosphorus (OP) pesticides (azinphosmethyl, phosmet, chlorpyrifos, malathion).

Results

Geometric mean azinphosmethyl concentrations in dust for three worker groups (16 pesticide handlers, 15 green fruit thinners, 15 organic orchard workers) ranged from 0.027–1.5 μg/g, with levels in vehicle dust higher than in house dust, and levels in house dust from handlers' homes higher than levels from tree fruit thinners' homes. Vehicle and house dust concentrations of azinphosmethyl were highly associated (R2 = 0.44, P < 0.001). Significant differences were found across worker groups for availability of laundry facilities, work boot storage, frequency of hand washing, commuter vehicle use, parking location, and safety training.

Conclusions

These findings support a focus on intervention activities to reduce take home pesticide exposure closer to the source of contamination; specifically, the workplace and vehicles used to travel to the workplace. Am. J. Ind. Med. 56:1063–1071, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Three‐Dimensional Mapping of Archaeological and Sedimentary Deposits with Ground‐penetrating Radar at Saruq al‐Hadid, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Authors: Herrmann Jason T.
Published: July 2013

A three‐dimensional model of aeolian deposits interleaved with layers of cultural materials was created from the results of a ground‐penetrating radar (GPR) survey at Saruq al Hadid, a multiperiod archaeological site located on the eastern fringe of the Rub al‐Khali desert in the United Arab Emirates. Results from this survey provide some context for artefacts collected in prior excavations and offer valuable insight into the physical processes that shaped the present manifestation of the site. Concentrations of artefacts within the dune deposits and the possible footprints of architectural installations have been located through the examination of two‐dimensional time slices and three‐dimensional depictions of isosurfaces. A three‐dimensional model of the dune interior, paired with absolute dates from related excavations, illustrates a history of occupation and sediment accumulation recorded at Saruq al‐Hadid that is consistent with chronologies of environmental change and settlement proposed elsewhere for the third through first millennia bce. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Joint Photoelectron Spectroscopy and Theoretical Study on the Electronic Structure of UCl5− and UCl5
Authors: Su Jing , Dau Phuong Diem , Xu Chao‐Fei , Huang Dao‐Ling , Liu Hong‐Tao , Wei Fan , Wang Lai‐Sheng , Li Jun
Published: July 2013

We report a combined photoelectron spectroscopic and relativistic quantum chemistry study on gaseous UCl5− and UCl5. The UCl5− anion is produced using electrospray ionization and found to be highly electronically stable with an adiabatic electron binding energy of 4.76±0.03 eV, which also represents the electron affinity of the neutral UCl5 molecule. Theoretical investigations reveal that the ground state of UCl5− has an open shell with two unpaired electrons occupying two primarily U 5f and 5fxyz based molecular orbitals. The structures of both UCl5− and UCl5 are theoretically optimized and confirmed to have C4v symmetry. The computational results are in good agreement with the photoelectron spectra, providing insights into the electronic structures and valence molecular orbitals of UCl5− and UCl5. We also performed systematic theoretical studies on all the uranium pentahalide complexes UX5− (X=F, Cl, Br, I). Chemical bonding analyses indicate that the UX interactions in UX5− are dominated by ionic bonding, with increasing covalent contributions for the heavier halogen complexes.
Lötschberg Basistunnel
Authors: Teuscher Peter , Aeschbach Markus
Published: July 2013

Der 34,6 km lange Lötschberg Basistunnel ist der erste Basistunnel der neuesten Tunnelgeneration durch die Alpen. Die Hauptbaulose begannen im Jahre 1999 und die Inbetriebnahme fand im Dezember 2007 statt. Das Tunnelsystem besteht aus zwei Tunnelröhren mit einem gegenseitigen Abstand von 40 m. Die Röhren sind alle 333 m durch einen Querschlag miteinander verbunden. Als Grundsatz für die Sicherheit gilt: Die eine Tunnelröhre ist die Schutzröhre der anderen. Es wird über das Baukonzept und die Besonderheiten in den einzelnen Baulosen berichtet. Vertieft werden die Gebirgsabdichtungsmaßnahmen im Baulos Ferden beschrieben. Bei 40°C warmem Wasser, das unter einem Druck von 110 bar stand, wurden aus Umweltschutzgründen insgesamt 172 Injektionsbohrungen mittels Preventer mit einer Gesamtlänge von 7700 m ausgeführt und 233 m3 Injektionsgut in die feinstverteilten Felsklüfte verpresst.

Die Gesamtbaukosten für den Lötschberg Basistunnel betrugen 3490 Mio. CHF (Preisbasis 2008).

Lötschberg base tunnel

The 34,6 km long Lötschberg base tunnel is the first base tunnel of the latest generation of tunnels through the Alps. The main construction contracts started in 1999 and the tunnels were commissioned at the end of 2007. The tunnel system comprises two tunnel tubes placed at a distance of 40 m. The tubes are connected with each other by cross tunnels at 333 m intervals. The following safety principle applies: each tunnel tube serves as safety route for the other tube. The article will cover a description of the construction concept and the special features of the different construction contracts, with special emphasis on the waterproofing measures at the Ferden construction section. For environmental protection reasons a total of 172 injection holes were drilled with a preventer using warm water at 40°C, at a pressure of 110 bar; the total length was 7,700 m into which 233 m3 of injection material was injected under pressure to fill even very minute fissures in the rock formation.

The total construction cost of the Lötschberg base tunnel was CHF 3490 million (based on 2008 prices).
Besondere Herausforderungen beim Bau der neuen Unterinntalbahn
Authors: Saischek Michael , Kölbach Peter
Published: July 2013

Die Herausforderungen bei der Umsetzung von Großprojekten sind vielfältig. Im Projektmanagement liegen sie darin, den Überblick über das Gesamtvorhaben zu bewahren, die Nahtstellen zwischen den Projektbeteiligten zu koordinieren und das Projekt im Spannungsfeld zwischen Terminen, Kosten und Qualität im Hinblick auf die Lebenszykluskosten zu optimieren. Andererseits ist aber auch eine Vielzahl von technischen Hürden zu meistern. Die Erschütterungsschutzmaßnahmen bei der neuen Unterinntalbahn werden exemplarisch für diese unzähligen technischen Herausforderungen näher betrachtet.

Um die vorgeschriebenen, sehr niedrigen Immissionsgrenzwerte für Erschütterungen und Sekundärluftschall im bereits hochbelasteten und dichtbesiedelten Unterinntal einzuhalten, sind hochwertige und dauerhaft wirksame Schutzmaßnahmen erforderlich. Eine dem Stand der Technik entsprechende Schutzmaßnahme ist der Einbau von Masse‐Feder‐Systemen, die die erforderlichen lokalen Anforderungen an die Schutzziele bestmöglich erfüllen.

Particular challenges during the construction of the new Lower Inn Valley Railway Line

The challenges in the implementation of major projects are diverse. On the one hand, the challenges lie in project management trying to maintain an overview of the entire project and to coordinate the interfaces between the project participants and to optimize the project given the tension between deadlines, costs and quality in terms of life cycle costs. On the other hand, there are also a variety of technical hurdles to overcome. The vibration protection measures in the new Unterinntalbahn be considered an example for so many of these technical challenges in more detail.

To comply with the prescribed very low emission limit for shock and secondary airborne noise in the already highly noise exposed and densely populated Lower Inn Valley, high quality and permanently effective protection measures are required. One state‐of‐the‐art protection measure used is the installation of mass‐spring systems that meet the necessary requirements for local protection.
A general mechanism for conditional expression of exaggerated sexually‐selected traits
Authors: Warren Ian A. , Gotoh Hiroki , Dworkin Ian M. , Emlen Douglas J. , Lavine Laura C.
Published: July 2013

Sexually‐selected exaggerated traits tend to be unusually reliable signals of individual condition, as their expression tends to be more sensitive to nutritional history and physiological circumstance than that of other phenotypes. As such, these traits are the foundation for many models of sexual selection and animal communication, such as “handicap” and “good genes” models. Exactly how expression of these traits is linked to the bearer's condition has been a central yet unresolved question, in part because the underlying physiological mechanisms regulating their development have remained largely unknown. Recent discoveries across animals as diverse as deer, beetles, and flies now implicate the widely conserved insulin‐like signaling pathway, as a common physiological mechanism regulating condition‐sensitive structures with extreme growth. This raises the exciting possibility that one highly conserved pathway may underlie the evolution of trait exaggeration in a multitude of sexually‐selected signal traits across the animal kingdom.
Validated spectrofluorimetric method for the determination of tamsulosin in spiked human urine, pure and pharmaceutical preparations
Authors: Karasakal A. , Ulu S. T.
Published: July 2013

A novel, sensitive and selective spectrofluorimetric method was developed for the determination of tamsulosin in spiked human urine and pharmaceutical preparations. The proposed method is based on the reaction of tamsulosin with 1‐dimethylaminonaphthalene‐5‐sulfonyl chloride in carbonate buffer pH 10.5 to yield a highly fluorescent derivative. The described method was validated and the analytical parameters of linearity, limit of detection (LOD), limit of quantification (LOQ), accuracy, precision, recovery and robustness were evaluated. The proposed method showed a linear dependence of the fluorescence intensity on drug concentration over the range 1.22 × 10‐7 to 7.35 × 10‐6 M. LOD and LOQ were calculated as 1.07 × 10‐7 and 3.23 × 10‐7 M, respectively. The proposed method was successfully applied for the determination of tamsulosin in pharmaceutical preparations and the obtained results were in good agreement with those obtained using the reference method. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Identification of the metabolites of anti‐inflammatory compound clematichinenoside AR in rat intestinal microflora
Authors: Li Feng , Wang Dawei , Xu Ping , Wu Jie , Liu Li , Liu Xiaodong
Published: July 2013

Clematichinenoside AR (C‐AR), a pentacyclic triterpenoid saponin with anti‐inflammatory and anti‐rheumatoid activities, is the main active component of the traditional Chinese medicine Clematidis Radix et Rhizoma. However, its poor oral absorption indicated that not only the parent compound C‐AR itself, but also its metabolites could be responsible for the pharmacological effects in rats. The present study aimed to investigate the metabolism of C‐AR in rat intestinal microflora, where C‐AR was extensively metabolized. C‐AR was incubated with the content of the large intestine. The culture solution was collected at different time points and analyzed for the metabolites of C‐AR. Eight metabolites were identified by liquid chromatography/quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry. M1, M2 and M5 were the major metabolites. In addition, it was proposed that deglycosylation was the only pathway contributing to the biotransformation of C‐AR in rat intestinal microflora. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.