bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Payments for ecosystem services in Mexico reduce forest fragmentation
Authors: Ramirez‐Reyes Carlos , Sims Katharine R. E. , Potapov Peter , Radeloff Volker C.
Published: May 2018

Forest fragmentation can lead to habitat reduction, edge increase, and exposure to disturbances. A key emerging policy to protect forests is payments for ecosystem services (PES), which offers compensation to landowners for environmental stewardship. Mexico was one of the first countries to implement a broad‐scale PES program, enrolling over 2.3 Mha by 2010. However, Mexico's PES did not completely eliminate deforestation in enrolled parcels and could have increased incentives to hide deforestation in ways that increased fragmentation. We studied whether Mexican forests enrolled in the PES program had less forest fragmentation than those not enrolled, and whether the PES effects varied among forest types, among socioeconomic zones, or compared to the protected areas system. We analyzed forest cover maps from 2000 to 2012 to calculate forest fragmentation. We summarized fragmentation for different forest types and in four socioeconomic zones. We then used matching analysis to investigate the possible causal impacts of the PES on forests across Mexico and compared the effects of the PES program with that of protected areas. We found that the area covered by forest in Mexico decreased by 3.4% from 2000 to 2012, but there was 9.3% less forest core area. Change in forest cover was highest in the southern part of Mexico, and high‐stature evergreen tropical forest lost the most core areas (−17%), while oak forest lost the least (−2%). Our matching analysis found that the PES program reduced both forest cover loss and forest fragmentation. Low‐PES areas increased twice as much of the number of forest patches, forest edge, forest islets, and largest area of forest lost compared to high‐PES areas. Compared to the protected areas system in Mexico, high‐PES areas performed similarly in preventing fragmentation, but not as well as biosphere reserve core zones. We conclude that the PES was successful in slowing forest fragmentation at the regional and country level. However, the program could be improved by targeting areas where forest changes are more frequent, especially in southern Mexico. Fragmentation analyses should be implemented in other areas to monitor the outcomes of protection programs such as REDD+ and PES.
Combining data‐derived priors with postrelease monitoring data to predict persistence of reintroduced populations
Authors: Drummond Faline M. , Lovegrove Tim G. , Armstrong Doug P.
Published: May 2018

Monitoring is an essential part of reintroduction programs, but many years of data may be needed to obtain reliable population projections. This duration can potentially be reduced by incorporating prior information on expected vital rates (survival and fecundity) when making inferences from monitoring data. The prior distributions for these parameters can be derived from data for previous reintroductions, but it is important to account for site‐to‐site variation. We evaluated whether such informative priors improved our ability to estimate the finite rate of increase (λ) of the North Island robin (Petroica longipes) population reintroduced to Tawharanui Regional Park, New Zealand. We assessed how precision improved with each year of postrelease data added, comparing models that used informative or uninformative priors. The population grew from about 22 to 80 individuals from 2007 to 2016, with λ estimated to be 1.23 if density dependence was included in the model and 1.13 otherwise. Under either model, 7 years of data were required before the lower 95% credible limit for λ was > 1, giving confidence that the population would persist. The informative priors did not reduce this requirement. Data‐derived priors are useful before reintroduction because they allow λ to be estimated in advance. However, in the case examined here, the value of the priors was overwhelmed once site‐specific monitoring data became available. The Bayesian method presented is logical for reintroduced populations. It allows prior information (used to inform prerelease decisions) to be integrated with postrelease monitoring. This makes full use of the data for ongoing management decisions. However, if the priors properly account for site‐to‐site variation, they may have little predictive value compared with the site‐specific data. This value will depend on the degree of site‐to‐site variation as well as the quality of the data.
Counter‐current swimming of lotic copepods as a possible mechanism for drift avoidance
Authors: Sidler Daniel , Michalec François‐Gaël , Holzner Markus
Published: May 2018

Benthic invertebrates in streams and rivers face a dominant downstream flow that may impose drift. The mechanisms that allow organisms to maintain their position instead of being swept downstream are not well known. One possible strategy involves active behaviour: Organisms perform small‐scale counter‐current displacements along the streambed. Because these fine‐scale processes are difficult to approach in field studies, evidence for behavioural mechanisms against flow advection has remained scarce. We reconstruct the three‐dimensional trajectories of the widespread cyclopoid copepod Eucyclops serrulatus moving freely in the water column and in the transparent sediment bed of a laboratory flume. In the different experiments, the average flow velocity is 12, 35, and 67 mm/s. We isolate the behavioural component of their motion by subtracting the local flow velocity. We show that copepods stay preferentially within the interstitial space of the sediment bed or close to its surface from which they perform frequent excursions in the water column. We also show that copepods perform active counter‐current swimming to limit downstream drift. The counter‐current swimming effort increases with flow velocity, and therefore, downstream drift remains moderate and does not vary strongly for the different flow rates tested. This active behavioural response to changing flow conditions, combined with frequent stops in the substratum where flow velocity is negligible, may confer lotic copepods the ability to reduce downstream transport. Our results confirm the importance of behaviour in drift avoidance and may evoke further research on taxon‐specific responses to varying hydraulic conditions.
Aryl(dimethylaminomethyl)phosphinic Acid Esters: Syntheses, Structures, and Reactions with Halogen Hydrogen Acids, Tin Halides, and Trimethyl Halosilanes
Authors: Lutter Michael , Jurkschat Klaus
Published: May 2018

This paper reports the synthesis of the aryl(iodomethyl)phosphinic acid ethyl esters, Ar(ICH2)P(O)OEt (Ar = Ph, Ar = mesityl), which, via dimethyamination, are converted to the corresponding aryl(dimethylaminomethyl)phosphinic acid ethyl esters, Ar(Me2NCH2)P(O)OEt (Ar = Ph, Ar = mesityl). Upon reaction with hydrogen chloride, compound Me2NCH2(Ph)P(O)OEt forms its hydrochloride salt as a crystalline material. Depending on the reaction conditions, treatment of Me2NCH2(Ph)P(O)OEt with SnCl2 gave either [Me2HNCH2(Ph)P(O)OEt][SnCl3] or the mixed‐valent dinuclear tin salt [{Me2HNCH2(Ph)P(O)O}4SnCl2][SnCl3]2, as its dichloromethane solvate. The reaction of Me2NCH2(Mes)P(O)OEt with SiMe3I gives the diorgano bis(trimethylsiloxy)phosphinium iodide [Me2NCH2(Mes)P(OSiMe3)2]I, as its toluene solvate. In solution, it is involved in an equilibrium with Me2NCH2(Mes)P(O)OSiMe3 and SiMe3I. From the hydrolysis of [Me2NCH2(Mes)P(OSiMe3)2]I, the hydrogen iodide derivative [Me2HNCH2(Mes)P(O)OH]I was obtained as three different solvates. [Me2NCH2(Mes)P(OSiMe3)2]I reacted with SnF2 to give a product mixture from which the mixed‐valent tin compound [{SnII2Me2NCH2(Mes)P(O)2}4SnIVF2]I2, was isolated. The compounds were characterized by NMR and IR spectroscopy, electrospray ionization mass spectrometry, and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis.
Assessing the Electrocatalytic Properties of the {Cp*RhIII}2+‐Polyoxometalate Derivative [H2PW11O39{RhIIICp*(OH2)}]3– towards CO2 Reduction
Authors: Girardi Marcelo , Platzer Dominique , Griveau Sophie , Bedioui Fethi , Alves Sandra , Proust Anna , Blanchard Sébastien
Published: May 2018

Storage of electricity produced intermittently by renewable energy sources is a societal issue. Besides the use of batteries and supercapacitors, conversion of excess electricity into chemical energy is also actively investigated. The conversion of CO2 to fuel or fuel precursors is an option that requires the use of a catalyst to overcome the high activation energy barrier. Of molecular catalysts, metal complexes with polypyridyl ligands are well represented, among which the [Cp*Rh(bpy)Cl]+ and [M(bpy)(CO)3X] (M = Re, Mn) complexes. As redox non‐innocent ligand, the bipyridine ligand is generally involved in the reduction mechanisms. It is thus tempting to replace it by other redox non‐innocent ligands such as vacant polyoxometalates (POMs). We have thus prepared [α‐H2PW11O39{RhIIICp*(OH2)}]3– which is closely related to [Cp*RhIII(bpy)Cl]+ by substitution of the monovacant [PW11O39]7– Keggin‐type POM for the bipyridine ligand. Its activity towards CO2 reduction has been assessed in acetonitrile in the presence of water. Compared to [Cp*Rh(bpy)Cl]+ that produces formate selectively over CO and H2, the POM derived catalyst favors proton reduction over CO2 reduction.
An Anomalous Antiaromaticity That Arises from the Cycloheptatrienyl Anion Equivalent
Authors: Uehara Keiji , Mei Peifeng , Murayama Tomohisa , Tani Fumito , Hayashi Hironobu , Suzuki Mitsuharu , Aratani Naoki , Yamada Hiroko
Published: May 2018

A fused azulene dimer with helicene‐like structure prepared by simple Suzuki–Miyaura coupling between naphthalene and azulene derivatives shows absorption in the near‐IR region up to 900 nm owing to the effective π‐expansion. The newly formed seven‐membered ring exhibits a positive NICS(1) value that arises from the antiaromatic cycloheptatrienyl anionic structure.
IonSens: A Wearable Potentiometric Sensor Patch for Monitoring Total Ion Content in Sweat
Authors: Hoekstra Rafael , Blondeau Pascal , Andrade Francisco J.
Published: May 2018

A sensor for monitoring total ion activity is described, and its performance as a wearable device for monitoring the total ion levels of sweat is evaluated. The sensor works by tracking changes in the Donnan potential generated across a Nafion® membrane. This cation‐exchange polymer was cast on a paper coated with carbon‐ink, making the platform elegantly simple. Analytical parameters during calibration in aqueous solution include a sensitivity of 56.3±1.0 mV/dec.a(Na+) and a standard deviation between standard electrode potentials of 5.3 mV (N=5) for first time use. By integrating a paper‐based pseudo‐reference electrode, a miniature disposable electrochemical cell (the “IonSens” device) was created and demonstrated as a wearable sensor. Potentiometric measurements estimating the total ion activities were validated against conductivity measurements. Recoveries of eleven raw sweat samples were determined to be 95.2±6.6 % (n=3). The perspiration conductivity profile of an athlete during exercise was monitored in real‐time and visualized on a mobile phone application connected via Bluetooth®. The excellent reproducibility of the electrode without any conditioning is noteworthy and lends itself to applications including – but not limited to – the monitoring of total ion activity in sweat.
State-Level Freshwater Mussel Programs: Current Status and a Research Framework to Aid in Mussel Management and Conservation
Authors: L. Bouska Kristen , Rosenberger Amanda , McMurray Stephen E , Lindner Garth A , Key Kayla N
Published: May 2018

Despite increased focus on their ecology and conservation, freshwater mussels remain one of the most imperiled groups of aquatic organisms. We documented current management actions, resources, and challenges in managing freshwater mussels in the United States through a survey of state natural resource agencies. Approximately 85% of surveyed states (N =40) actively managed mussel populations. Common challenges to mussel conservation included limited funding, lack of public awareness, and poor understanding of habitat needs and risks. We present a research framework, currently underway in Missouri, to support a regional mussel conservation assessment whereby habitat needs are identified, risks are assessed, and standardized protocols are developed to monitor and detect trends in mussel assemblages and threats. The research framework conforms to the National Strategy for the Conservation of Native Freshwater Mollusks and is adaptable to other states. With full consideration of resource limitations, we explore how this framework can improve the effectiveness of mussel conservation efforts.
Comparative analysis of AKT and the related biomarkers in uterine leiomyomas with MED12, HMGA2, and FH mutations
Authors: Xie Jia , Ubango Julianne , Ban Yanli , Chakravarti Debabrata , Kim J. Julie , Wei Jian‐Jun
Published: May 2018

Uterine leiomyomas (ULM) are histologically and molecularly heterogeneous and clinically they grow at vastly different rates. Several driver gene mutations have been identified in ULM, including MED12 mutations, HMGA2 overexpression, and biallelic FH inactivation. ULM with different driver mutant genes may use different molecular pathways, but currently no clear correlation between gene mutations and growth related pathways has been established. To better define this relationship, we collected ULM with MED12 (n = 25), HMGA2 (n = 15), and FH (n = 27) mutations and examined the sex steroid hormone, cell cycle, and AKT pathway genes by immunohistochemistry. While ER and PR were highly expressed in all types of ULM, FH ULM showed lower ER expression and higher PR expression. HMGA2 tumors had significantly higher levels of AKT signaling and mitogenic activity than other ULM types. HMGA2 activated AKT signaling through upregulation of IGF2BP2. Silencing HMGA2 in ULM cells resulted in downregulation of AKT and upregulation of p16 and p21, which eventually led to cell senescence. HMGA2 overexpression in ULM is not only related to tumor development but also plays a role in controlling cellular proliferation through the AKT pathway.
Relationship between cumulative ultraviolet exposure and cognitive function in a rural elderly Chinese population
Authors: Xin Shimeng , Luan Dechun , Wang Xue , Wang Fang , Liu Yang , Gao Qian
Published: May 2018

Objectives

Some researchers have focused on the relationship between vitamin D and cognition, but the conclusions are inconsistent. We estimated cumulative UV exposure could be used to represent the individual's long‐term vitamin D status and investigated its association with global cognitive function in elderly Chinese.

Methods

A total of 641 participants aged 60 years and over were recruited in a rural area of Shenyang, China. All were interviewed to obtain data regarding sociodemographic characteristics and time spent outdoors. Cognitive function was evaluated using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment‐Beijing version (MoCA‐BJ). Images of skin from UV‐exposed (dorsal hand) and UV‐protected (inner forearm) sites from each individual were graded by the Beagley‐Gibson system. Differences in skin‐grade between the 2 sites were used to indicate cumulative UV exposure level. Subjects were grouped in tertiles based on skin‐grade differences (<1.75, 1.75–2.74, and ≥ 2.75), representing low, medium, and high UV exposure levels, respectively. The MoCA‐BJ score was classified in tertiles as low (<19), middle (19‐22), and high (≥23) levels of cognition. Associations between cognitive function and UV exposure were analyzed using ordinal regression.

Results

Skin‐grade differences were associated with self‐reported time spent outdoors. After adjustment for age, gender, education, BMI, whether living alone, income, diet, hypertension, and diabetes, a high UV exposure level was associated with better cognitive function (odds ratio = 0.643, 95% confidence interval = 0.427–0.969).

Conclusions

Greater cumulative UV exposure appears to be associated with better cognitive function in elderly adults.
Hepatitis B Virus–Upregulated LNC‐HUR1 Promotes Cell Proliferation and Tumorigenesis by Blocking p53 Activity
Authors: Liu Ningning , Liu Qi , Yang Xiaohai , Zhang Fang , Li Xinda , Ma Yuanwu , Guan Feifei , Zhao Xin , Li Zhiwei , Zhang Lianfeng , Ye Xin
Published: May 2018

Recent studies have indicated that a number of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are dysregulated in hepatocellular carcinoma, while their aberrant expressions are associated with tumorigenesis and poor prognosis. To identify hepatitis B virus (HBV)‐related lncRNAs, we used RNA deep sequencing to quantify the abundances of lncRNAs in HepG2 cells and HBV transgenic HepG2‐4D14 cells. Here, we demonstrate that lnc‐HUR1 is significantly upregulated in HepG2‐4D14 cells. We found that HBV‐encoded hepatitis B x protein can enhance the transcription of lnc‐HUR1. Overexpression of lnc‐HUR1 promotes cell proliferation, whereas knockdown of lnc‐HUR1 inhibits cell growth. We identified that lnc‐HUR1 can interact with p53 and inhibit its transcriptional regulation on downstream genes, such as p21 and B cell lymphoma 2–associated X protein. We generated lnc‐HUR1 transgenic mice and performed the partial hepatectomy (PHx) to examine liver regeneration. The data showed that the ratio of liver weight to body weight in lnc‐HUR1 transgenic mice is higher than that in wild‐type (WT) littermates at day 2 and day 3 following hepatectomy. Consistently, the results of bromodeoxyuridine staining on liver sections following hepatectomy indicate that the ratio of bromodeoxyuridine‐positive cells in lnc‐HUR1 transgenic mice is significantly higher than that in WT mice, suggesting that lnc‐HUR1 promotes cell proliferation during liver regeneration. Next, we performed the experiment of diethylnitrosamine‐induced tumorigenesis. The data demonstrate that tumor number in lnc‐HUR1 transgenic mice is higher compared with control mice, indicating that lnc‐HUR1 enhances diethylnitrosamine‐induced tumorigenesis. Conclusion: We reveal that HBV‐upregulated lnc‐HUR1 promotes cell proliferation and tumorigenesis by interacting with p53 to block downstream gene transcription. Our findings suggest that lnc‐HUR1 plays an important role in HBV‐related hepatocellular carcinoma development and may serve as a therapeutic marker for hepatocellular carcinoma. (Hepatology 2018; 00:000‐000).
Coagulation Failure in Patients With Acute‐on‐Chronic Liver Failure and Decompensated Cirrhosis: Beyond the International Normalized Ratio
Authors: Blasi Annabel , Calvo Andrea , Prado Verónica , Reverter Enric , Reverter Juan Carlos , Hernández‐Tejero María , Aziz Fátima , Amoros Alex , Cardenas Andres , Fernández Javier
Published: May 2018

Balanced hemostasis with hypocoagulable and hypercoagulable features may occur in acute‐on‐chronic liver failure (ACLF). The characteristics and prognostic impact of the coagulation profile in ACLF are unknown. Consecutive patients with ACLF (n = 36) and acute decompensation (AD; n = 24) were included. Blood samples for thromboelastometry (TE) were obtained at admission and 72 hours thereafter. The coagulation profile was evaluated in patients with and without ACLF and in those with and without systemic inflammatory response syndrome. The impact of the coagulation profile on transfusion requirements, bleeding events, and short‐term survival was assessed. At admission, patients with ACLF showed more hypocoagulable characteristics compared to AD subjects, with prolonged time to initial fibrin formation and clot formation time and decreased maximum clot firmness and alpha‐angle values. TE parameters worsened at 72 hours in ACLF but improved in patients with AD. Prevalence of a hypocoagulable profile (three or more TE parameters outside range) was significantly higher in patients with ACLF either at admission (61% versus 29% in AD; P = 0.03) or during follow‐up. Hypocoagulability correlated with systemic inflammation and was associated with higher 28‐day (45% versus 16%; P = 0.02) and 90‐day (52% versus 19%; P = 0.01) mortality rates but not with transfusion requirements or bleeding. Prolonged time to initial fibrin formation (extrinsic TE assay >80 seconds) and Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease score at baseline were independent predictors of 28‐day mortality. Conclusion: Patients with ACLF frequently show hypocoagulable features with prolonged time to initial fibrin formation and clot formation time and reduced clot firmness; these alterations worsen after admission, correlate with systemic inflammation, and translate into higher short‐term mortality; hypofibrinolysis could contribute to organ failure in ACLF.
Human Leukocyte Antigen F Locus Adjacent Transcript 10 Overexpression Disturbs WISP1 Protein and mRNA Expression to Promote Hepatocellular Carcinoma Progression
Authors: Yan Jinlong , Lei Jun , Chen Leifeng , Deng Huan , Dong Dingxiang , Jin Tao , Liu Xiuxia , Yuan Rongfa , Qiu Yumin , Ge Jin , Peng Xiaogang , Shao Jianghua
Published: May 2018

Recently, studies on transcriptome–proteome relationships have revealed mRNA/protein expression discordance for certain genes and speculated that protein posttranslational modification (PTM) may be involved. However, there is currently no evidence to support this hypothesis. Wnt‐induced secreted protein‐1 (WISP1) is the downstream target gene of β‐catenin and plays an important role in tumorigenesis and progression, but the expression and role of WISP1 in different tumor types are controversial. Here, we first confirmed that WISP1 protein expression was significantly down‐regulated in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tissue and could be an independent predictor of poor prognosis for patients with HCC. In vivo and in vitro evidence was provided that WISP1 can suppress HCC cell proliferation. Further studies have found that low WISP1 protein expression was related to expression of human leukocyte antigen F locus adjacent transcript 10 (FAT10), a specific ubiquitin‐like protein with both degradation and stabilization functions, which plays an important role in PTM. FAT10 overexpression facilitated WISP1 degradation by FAT10ylation to decrease WISP1 protein expression, thus promoting HCC proliferation. Interestingly, we found and demonstrated that FAT10 overexpression could result in WISP1 protein/mRNA expression discordance, with protein expression decreasing while mRNA expression increased. The underlying mechanism is that FAT10 exerts substrate stabilization and degradation functions simultaneously, while FAT10 overexpression promotes WISP1 mRNA expression by stabilizing β‐catenin and directly degrades WISP1 protein. Conclusion: Our study demonstrated that overexpression of FAT10 results in expression discordance between WISP1 protein and mRNA, thereby promoting HCC progression by down‐regulating WISP1 protein expression.
The Pharmacology, Pharmacokinetics, Efficacy, and Adverse Events Associated With Kava
Authors: White C. Michael
Published: May 2018

Kava is a plant with numerous kavapyrones that can induce pharmacologic effects and drug interactions through the cytochrome P450 and P‐glycoprotein systems. Kava is used recreationally and for the treatment of anxiety. Clinical trials verify anxiolytic effects in excess of placebo, but the effects are not seen immediately and the optimal dose and dosing schedule needs to be determined. Clinical trials usually lasting for 4 weeks found generally good tolerability and safety; however, dermatologic, hepatologic, and cognitive adverse effects may occur. Some of these adverse effects are known to occur from the kavapyrones themselves, while others can be caused or exacerbated by use of substandard kava products. There is tremendous variability in the constitution of a kava product based on the parts of the plant that are being extracted and the extraction method. The most commonly studied extract for the treatment of anxiety is the acetone extract.
Rapid and noninvasive quality control of anhydrous milk fat by PTR‐MS: The effect of storage time and packaging
Authors: Pedrotti M. , Khomenko I. , Cappellin L. , Fontana M. , Somenzi M. , Falchero L. , Arveda M. , Fogliano V. , Biasioli F.
Published: May 2018

In this study, proton transfer reaction‐mass spectrometry (PTR‐MS), coupled with a time‐of‐flight mass analyzer and a multipurpose automatic sampler, was evaluated as a rapid and nondestructive tool for the quality control of anhydrous milk fat. Anhydrous milk fats packed in cardboard and bag‐in‐box were compared during refrigerated shelf life at 4°C for 9 months. Anhydrous milk fat samples were taken at 120, 180, and 240 days and measured by PTR‐MS during storage at 50°C for 11 days. Univariate and multivariate data analysis were performed in order to classify samples according to the packaging type and compare aromatic profiles.

Markers related to both packaging and storage duration were identified, and all stored samples were clearly distinguishable from reference fresh samples. Significant differences in some key butter aroma compounds such as 2‐pentanone, 2‐heptanone, 2/3‐methylbutanal, acetoin, and butanoic acid were observed between different types of packaging. During the refrigerated storage, differences related to packaging are more evident, while during the storage at 50°C, the fat oxidation induced by the high temperature becomes the most relevant phenomenon independently of the packaging type. These results indicate the importance of avoiding anhydrous milk fat storage at 50°C for long times during industrial production processes. All together data demonstrated the viability of PTR‐MS as a rapid and high‐sensitivity tool in agroindustry quality control program.
General node for transmission‐line modeling (TLM) method applied to bio‐heat transfer
Authors: Milan Hugo F.M. , Gebremedhin Kifle G.
Published: May 2018

Transmission‐line modeling (TLM) is a numerical method used to solve coupled partial differential equations in time domain. Using TLM, the equations of the problem and a small control volume are represented by an electric network composed of nodes. In this paper, a general TLM node theory for bio‐heat transfer that simplifies to existing node formulations is presented. This formulation allows for the use of irregular node geometries, such as irregular quadrangles and hexahedrons, which are necessary to accurately model complex geometries of biological systems. Using irregular hexahedron nodes, solutions of skin‐surface temperatures of a breast with tumor are demonstrated. This theory is based on 2 assumptions. The first is that the unit vector perpendicular to the border of the node is similar to the unit vector from the center of the node to the midpoint of its border, which is exact for regular geometries (eg, rectangles in 2‐D, and parallelepipeds in 3‐D) and approximated for most irregular geometries used in practice (eg, triangles and quadrangles in 2‐D, and tetrahedrons and hexahedrons in 3‐D). This first assumption does not, however, hold for all geometries such as 3‐D pyramids. The second assumption, which is controlled by an error parameter, is that the dispersive effect intrinsically modeled by the transmission‐line inductor is negligible compared with the diffusive effect modeled by the resistor of the node. This general TLM node formulation facilitates algorithm development and increases flexibility, increasing the applicability of TLM to solve complex geometric problems typical of most biological systems.
Infrared and Raman spectroscopy of α‐ZrW2O8: A comprehensive density functional perturbation theory and experimental study
Authors: Weck Philippe F. , Gordon Margaret E. , Greathouse Jeffery A. , Bryan Charles R. , Meserole Stephen P. , Rodriguez Mark A. , Payne Clay , Kim Eunja
Published: May 2018

Cubic zirconium tungstate (α‐ZrW2O8), a well‐known negative thermal expansion material, has been investigated within the framework of density functional perturbation theory (DFPT), combined with experimental characterization to assess and validate computational results. Using combined Fourier transform infrared measurements and DFPT calculations, new and extensive assignments were made for the far‐infrared (<400 cm−1) spectrum of α‐ZrW2O8. A systematic comparison of DFPT‐simulated infrared, Raman, and phonon density‐of‐state spectra with Fourier transform far‐/mid‐infrared and Raman data collected in this study, as well as with available inelastic neutron scattering measurements, shows the superior accuracy of the PBEsol exchange‐correlation functional over standard PBE calculations for studying the spectroscopic properties of this material.
MRI‐based EMVI positivity predicts systemic recurrence in rectal cancer patients with a good tumor response to chemoradiotherapy followed by surgery
Authors: Cho Min Soo , Park Youn Young , Yoon Jiho , Yang Seung Yoon , Baik Seung Hyuk , Lee Kang Young , Kim Ik Yong , Kim Nam Kyu
Published: May 2018

Background

This study aimed to determine the prognostic value of baseline magnetic resonance imaging‐based extramural vascular invasion status (EMVI) among rectal cancer patients with a good tumor response to standard chemoradiotherapy followed by surgery.

Methods

A total of 359 patients with ypT0‐2/N0 disease from The Yonsei Multicenter Colorectal Cancer Electronic Database were retrospectively included between January 2000 and December 2014. Magnetic resonance images and medical records were reviewed to investigate risk factors for tumor recurrence.

Results

When we compared patients without and with EMVI, significant differences were observed in the 5‐year disease‐free survival rate (DFS) (80.8% vs 57.8%, P = 0.005) and in the 5‐year systemic recurrence‐free survival rate (SRFS) (86.9% vs 64.3%, P = 0.007). In the multivariate analysis, both mrEMVI and APR independently predicted overall DFS (APR; HR 2.088, 95% CI: 1.082‐4.031, P = 0.028, mrEMVI; HR: 2.729, 95% CI: 1.230‐6.058, P = 0.014). mrEMVI was only independent prognostic factor for systemic recurrence with statistical significance (HR: 3.321, 95% CI: 1.185‐9.309, P = 0.022).

Conclusion

Even in rectal cancer patients with a good response to chemoradiotherapy followed by curative surgery, extramural vascular invasion and APR may predict poor disease‐free survival outcomes. Intensified treatment strategy should be considered.
Merkel cell carcinoma: Clinical outcome and prognostic factors in 351 patients
Authors: van Veenendaal Linde M. , van Akkooi Alexander C. J. , Verhoef Cees , Grünhagen Dirk Jan , Klop W. Martin C. , Valk Gerlof D. , Tesselaar Margot E. T.
Published: May 2018

Background

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare and aggressive neuroendocrine carcinoma of the skin.

Aim

To describe clinical outcome and prognostic factors of MCC patients in two expert‐centers.

Method

Patients with histologically confirmed MCC in 1990‐2014 were included. Data on patient, tumor characteristics and treatment were retrospectively collected.

Results

A total of 351 Patients were evaluated, 153 (44%) males, median age 74 years (range 28‐94). Median follow‐up time was 28 months (IQR 13‐58). Median primary tumor size was 17 mm (range 2‐135). At time of diagnosis 112 (32%) patients had lymph node metastases. The cohorts′ 5‐year overall survival (OS) was 58%. Using a competing risk analysis the 5‐year relapse and MCC related death was 42% and 22%. Adjuvant radiation therapy (XRT) was associated with reduced recurrence (SDH 0.54; CI 0.3‐0.9). Nodal involvement (SDH 2.7; CI 1.1‐6.6) and the male gender were associated with higher MCC related death (SDH 3.1; CI 1.2‐7.9)

Conclusion

In a large cohort a low MCC related death, in the presence of a low OS was seen. This indicates that a significant number of MCC patients die due to other causes than MCC. Adjuvant XRT was associated with relapse. Male gender and nodal metastasis were associated with MCC related death.
How might sediment connectivity change in space and time?
Authors: Cossart Etienne , Viel Vincent , Lissak Candide , Reulier Romain , Fressard Mathieu , Delahaye Daniel
Published: May 2018

Many authors focus on the concept of sediment connectivity to predict the sedimentary signal delivered at catchment outlets. In this framework, the sedimentary signal is seen as an emergent aggregation of local links and interactions. The challenge is then to open black boxes that remain within a sediment cascade, which requires both accurate geomorphic investigations in the field (reconstruction of sequences of geomorphic evolution and description of sediment routes) and the development of tools dedicated to the modeling of sediment cascades. On the basis of study cases in various environmental regimes (high‐energy mountainous environment and agricultural lowland catchments), in this paper, we (a) exhibit some spatial and temporal paradoxes in terms of sediment delivery and (b) develop various modeling procedures to test some hypothesis of interpretations. These modeling approaches explore different components of sediment connectivity at the catchment scale, including graph theory, agent‐based modeling, and differential equations. Each protocol is chosen according to the scientific objective and how the geomorphological system is simplified. Collectively, the results show that connectivity is an efficient conceptual framework with which to predict how a sediment cascade may transmit (or not) a perturbation throughout the system, including local perturbations (local sediment input, removal of a reservoir, etc.) and perturbations due to external‐boundary forces.
Detection of areas susceptible to land degradation in Cyprus using remote sensed data and environmental quality indices
Authors: Kolios Stavros , Mitrakos Stavros , Stylios Chrysostomos
Published: May 2018

This study is an effort to adapt the general principles, methodological tools, and equations of a widely used Mediterranean desertification and land use approach (MEDALUS approach) in order to detect environmental sensitive areas susceptible for land degradation in Cyprus. For this scope, different remote sensed data and products (Landsat multispectral imagery and ASTER Digital Elevation Model) were used as well as demographic information, taken from the Socioeconomic Data and Applications Center. Four quality indices were calculated (Climate Quality Index, Demographic Index, Soil Quality Index, and Vegetation Quality Index) and combined in order to provide at final stage, the Environmental Sensitivity Area Index (ESAI) with which the environmental status is described. The use of remote sensed data of 30‐m spatial resolution and the calculation of different indices to extract the environmental stress at regional scale can be considered as innovative characteristics of this study. According to this ESAI, it was found that 9.68% of the Cyprus Island is at environmental risk, strictly related to the land degradation potential. The spatial distribution of the ESAI values shows that the environmental risk is most significant in Paphos district and Limassol, following the Larnaca and the Famagusta districts. Nicosia and Kyrenia districts are found slightly less problematic. In addition, large parts of Troodos Mountain (especially in its low altitudes), which is one of the most vegetated areas of the Island, seem to be at notable environmental stress.
Application feasibility of HRB400 steel in seawater and marine sand concrete
Authors: Shang Baihui , Li Ying
Published: May 2018

Due to the shortage of fresh water and river sand in coastal areas, seawater, and marine sand sometimes must be used in the preparation of concrete for construction. Thus, the corrosion of steel rebar in seawater and marine sand concrete cannot be ignored. In this study, the feasibility of using HRB400 steel in seawater and marine sand concrete was determined based on steel rebar corrosion. Electrochemical methods were used to investigate the passivation and depassivation of HRB400 steel in curing and in‐service concrete, respectively, and to determine conditions for forming a stable passive film and the critical chloride threshold for the steel depassivation. Our experimental results demonstrate that HRB400 steel cannot be directly applied in seawater concrete but may be used in marine sand concrete when the concentration of mixed‐in chloride is no more than 0.05 M because low concentrations of mixed‐in chloride had no effect on the properties of the passive film.
Crosslinkable deoxidizing hybrid adhesive of epoxy–diacid for electrical interconnections in semiconductor packaging
Authors: Jang Keon‐Soo , Eom Yong‐Sung , Choi Kwang‐Seong , Bae Hyun‐Cheol
Published: May 2018

For electrical interconnections in semiconductor packaging, epoxy‐based pastes have recently attracted considerable interest due to their excellent adhesion to various substrates and their reasonable electrical and mechanical properties, especially when combined with deoxidizing agents (to remove metallic oxides). Here, epoxy–diacid‐based hybrid pastes were examined to achieve a deoxidizing capability for eliminating Sn‐based solder oxides and adhesion between microchip and substrate as a one‐step process. Onset, exothermic peak and end temperatures of the reaction between epoxy and diacids were systematically probed using DSC, rheometry and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The last moment of the adhesive reaction during heating substantially enhanced the thermal and mechanical properties of the epoxy–diacid adhesive despite the absence of exothermic enthalpy detected by DSC. The glass transition temperature (Tg) and Young's modulus gradually decreased as a function of aliphatic chain length of diacids except when the length was extremely short and voids were produced. Soldering (wetting) and deoxidizing capabilities of the hybrid adhesive were observed via optical microscopy and FTIR. The correlation between the reaction, Tg, conversion and viscosity was also investigated. Lastly, complete wetting and electrical interconnection with good mechanical robustness were achieved for a commercial chip/substrate set by flip‐chip bonding. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
The role of the ratio (PEG:PPG) of a triblock copolymer (PPG‐b‐PEG‐b‐PPG) in the cure kinetics, miscibility and thermal and mechanical properties in an epoxy matrix
Authors: Silva Bruna L , Bello Roger H , Ferreira Coelho Luiz A
Published: May 2018

The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of different poly(ethylene glycol):poly(propylene glycol) (PEG:PPG) molar ratios in a triblock copolymer in the cure kinetics, miscibility and thermal and mechanical properties in an epoxy matrix. The poly(propylene glycol)‐block‐poly(ethylene glycol)‐block‐poly(propylene glycol) (PPG‐b‐PEG‐b‐PPG) triblock copolymers used had two different molecular masses: 3300 and 2000 g mol−1. The mass concentration of PEG in the copolymer structure played a key role in the miscibility and cure kinetics of the blend as well as in the thermal–mechanical properties. Phase separation was observed only for blends formed with the 3300 g mol−1 triblock copolymer at 20 wt%. Concerning thermal properties, the miscibility of the copolymer in the epoxy matrix reduced the Tg value by 13 °C, although a 62% increase in fracture toughness (KIC) was observed. After the addition of PPG‐b‐PEG‐b‐PPG with 3300 g mol−1 there was a reduction in the modulus of elasticity by 8% compared to the neat matrix; no significant changes were observed in Tg values for the immiscible system. The use of PPG‐b‐PEG‐b‐PPG with 2000 g mol−1 reduced the modulus of elasticity by approximately 47% and increased toughness (KIC) up to 43%. Finally, for the curing kinetics of all materials, the incorporation of the triblock copolymer PPG‐b‐PEG‐b‐PPG delayed the cure reaction of the DGEBA/DDM (DGEBA, diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A; DDM, Q3‐4,4′‐Diaminodiphenylmethane) system when there is miscibility and accelerated the cure reaction when it is immiscible. All experimental curing reactions could be fitted to the Kamal autocatalytic model presenting an excellent agreement with experimental data. This model was able to capture some interesting features of the addition of triblock copolymers in an epoxy resin. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
In silico and Wet Bench Interactomics Sheds Light on the Similitudes and Differences between Human ROCO Proteins
Authors: Taymans Jean‐Marc , Chartier‐Harlin Marie‐Christine
Published: May 2018

Defining a common and specific function for homologs of a novel protein family is not a trivial task. In their recent study, Tomkins and colleagues have addressed this challenge for the ROCO protein family by exploring interactomes of its four human members: MASL1, DAPK1, LRRK1, and LRRK2. ROCO proteins are characterized by a Ras‐GTPase domain embedded in complex multidomain proteins and a functional descriptor for this protein family has been elusive despite accumulating research, particularly for LRRK2, a protein implicated in Parkinson's disease. Tomkins et al. have combined an in silico weighted literature mining approach with novel interactomics data obtained on protein chips for all four proteins under strictly comparable conditions. The combination of these approaches has allowed the prudent formulation of common functions for ROCO proteins, including their involvement in stress response and cell projection organization. In addition, the study also confirms functional specificity for the individual ROCOs with such functions as cell death and apoptosis assigned to DAPK1, cellular, and neuronal development associated with LRRK1 and intracellular transport and organization assigned to LRRK2.
Predicting healthcare outcomes in prematurely born infants using cluster analysis
Authors: MacBean Victoria , Lunt Alan , Drysdale Simon B. , Yarzi Muska N. , Rafferty Gerrard F. , Greenough Anne
Published: May 2018

Aims

Prematurely born infants are at high risk of respiratory morbidity following neonatal unit discharge, though prediction of outcomes is challenging. We have tested the hypothesis that cluster analysis would identify discrete groups of prematurely born infants with differing respiratory outcomes during infancy.

Methods

A total of 168 infants (median (IQR) gestational age 33 (31‐34) weeks) were recruited in the neonatal period from consecutive births in a tertiary neonatal unit. The baseline characteristics of the infants were used to classify them into hierarchical agglomerative clusters. Rates of viral lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) were recorded for 151 infants in the first year after birth.

Results

Infants could be classified according to birth weight and duration of neonatal invasive mechanical ventilation (MV) into three clusters. Cluster one (MV ≤5 days) had few LRTIs. Clusters two and three (both MV ≥6 days, but BW ≥or <882 g respectively), had significantly higher LRTI rates. Cluster two had a higher proportion of infants experiencing respiratory syncytial virus LRTIs (P = 0.01) and cluster three a higher proportion of rhinovirus LRTIs (P < 0.001)

Conclusions

Readily available clinical data allowed classification of prematurely born infants into one of three distinct groups with differing subsequent respiratory morbidity in infancy.
Engaged parenting, gender, and children's time use in transnational families: An assessment spanning three global regions
Authors: Jordan Lucy P. , Dito Bilisuma , Nobles Jenna , Graham Elspeth
Published: May 2018

Global circuits of migration regularly separate parents from children. How families navigate this separation has changed markedly. The sharp decline in the cost of international communication makes possible new forms of transnational parenting. In many contexts, migrants are now actively engaged parents, involved in decisions, knowledgeable of children's schooling, employment, and activities, and in some cases, even conversant face‐to‐face with children via videoconferencing. These practices, however, are not universal. We use data from surveys in three countries to document the frequency and variability of intensive, engaged transnational parenting in the diverse global regions of Asia, Africa, and the Americas. We then ask whether the organisation of children's lives—specifically, time allocated to school homework, leisure, and household chores—varies by the degree to which migrant parents stay connected to sending homes. The gender of the migrant parent, stay‐behind caregiver, and the gender of the child emerge as explanatory factors for engaged parenting and children's time use. However, and unexpectedly, in the Philippines, migrant mothers are less likely to practice engaged parenting. In sending households, girls in two of the three countries spend more time doing household chores than boys, but parental migration does not mitigate this difference. Although we find some evidence of more traditional gender practices, we also find exceptions that suggest potentially fruitful avenues for future research.
Transnational families: Cross‐country comparative perspectives
Authors: Mazzucato Valentina , Dito Bilisuma B.
Published: May 2018

This special issue aims to address the gap in transnational families studies by identifying if there are common patterns and effects of transnational family life across countries and regions, using cross‐country comparative analyses. In this editorial introduction, we highlight the overarching themes emerging from seven papers, which employ new large‐scale surveys specifically designed to collect information about transnational family life across different Latin American, African, and Southeast Asian countries and China. We discuss how these comparative studies offer new ways of understanding transnational families by focusing on their prevalence, composition, the experiences of their members, and how these change over time. We also highlight how differing and changing notions of care over space and a person's lifetime influence how transnational families are created, reproduced, maintained, and experienced. In general, the issue as a whole emphasises the need to take structural factors in both sending and receiving contexts into account when studying the form that transnational families take, how this changes over time, and the general and specific gendered effects they have on different members.
Grappling with racism as foundational practice of science teaching
Authors: Sheth Manali J.
Published: May 2018

While current science teacher education frameworks designed to support high‐quality teaching have the potential to promote equitable science learning, they do not substantively engage with how racism organizes science teaching and learning. In this critical qualitative inquiry grounded in critical race theory and sociopolitical perspectives on teaching and learning, I analyzed the contradictions that emerged in science teaching practices that were both intended to support Student of Color science learning and engaged science‐specific colorblind ideologies. The critical race theory analysis demonstrated how science teaching practices such as connecting to students’ experiences, creating interests in science, representing scientists as role models, and scaffolding doing science maintain unequal racialized power relations between students and science when historical and contemporary legacies of racism are not directly confronted. I also propose a science teaching practice of “grappling with racism” as a possible transformative solution to disrupt racism in and through science teaching.