bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design, Synthesis, and the Biological Evaluation of a New Series of Acyclic 1,2,3‐Triazole Nucleosides
Authors: Głowacka Iwona E. , Andrei Graciela , Schols Dominique , Snoeck Robert , Gawron Katarzyna
Published: August 2017

A new strategy for the synthesis of N3‐benzoylated‐ and N3‐benzylated N1‐propargylquinazoline‐2,4‐diones 30a−d and 31a−d from isatoic anhydride 41 is reported. The alkynes 30a−d and 31a−d were applied in the 1,3‐dipolar cycloadditions with azides 27 and 28 to synthesize acyclic 1,2,3‐triazole nucleosides. The obtained alkynes and 1,2,3‐triazole were evaluated for antiviral activity against a broad range of DNA and RNA viruses. The alkyne 30d showed activity against adenovirus‐2 (EC50 = 8.3 μM), while compounds 37a and 37d were also active toward herpes simplex virus‐1 wild‐type and thymidine kinase deficient (HSV‐1 TK−) strains (EC50 values in the range of 4.6–13.8 μM). In addition, compounds 30a, 30b, 37b, and 37c exhibited activity toward varicella‐zoster virus (VZV) TK+ and TK− strains (EC50 = 2.1–9.5 μM). The compound 30b proved to be the most selective against VZV and displayed marginal activity against human cytomegalovirus (HCMV). Although the compound 30a had improved anti‐HCMV activity, the increase in anti‐HCMV activity was accompanied by significant toxicity. Compounds 37a and 37d showed inhibitory effects toward the human T lymphocyte (CEM) cell line (IC50 = 21 ± 7 and 22 ± 1 μM, respectively), while compound 35 exhibited cytostatic activity toward HMEC‐1 cells (IC50 = 28 ± 2 μM).
Willy Gehler – Versuch einer Einordnung
Authors: Steinbock Oliver , Curbach Manfred , Hänseroth Thomas
Published: August 2017

Im Rahmen des durch die DFG geförderten Projekts Willy Gehler (1876–1953) – Spitzenforschung, politische Selbstmobilisierung und historische Rezeption eines bedeutenden Bauingenieurs und Hochschullehrers im „Jahrhundert der Extreme“ luden das Institut für Massivbau und der Lehrstuhl für Technikgeschichte der TU Dresden am 11.04.2017 zum gemeinsamen Workshop unter dem Titel: Willy Gehler – Versuch einer zeitgenössischen Einordnung mit anschließender Ausstellungseröffnung ein. Aufbauend auf einer Projektvorstellung bietet nachfolgender Beitrag einen Überblick über Konzept, Umsetzung und Ergebnisse dieses Workshops und darüber, was den Besucher in der dazugehörenden Ausstellung erwartet.
Ligand Exchange for Controlling the Surface Chemistry and Properties of Nanoparticle Superstructures
Authors: Merg Andrea D. , Zhou Yicheng , Smith Ashley M. , Millstone Jill E. , Rosi Nathaniel L.
Published: August 2017

Nanoparticle superstructures have received widespread interest due to their unique physical properties that derive from the size, shape, composition, and 3D assembly of their component nanoparticle building blocks. Successful deployment of these materials for target applications requires methods for modifying their surfaces to impart specific properties and functions. To this end, we demonstrate that ligand exchange processes, which are extensively employed for functionalizing discrete nanoparticles, can be used to modify the surfaces of nanoparticle superstructures. We show that peptides coating the external surfaces of hollow, spherical gold nanoparticle superstructures are effectively exchanged with thiolated ligands, while maintaining the integrity of the assembled structure. The resulting superstructures are stable on the bench. These proof‐of‐principle studies highlight the potential of using ligand exchange to differentiate nanoparticle superstructures, thereby expanding their utility and application scope.
Cardiac Safety of Rupatadine in a Single‐Ascending‐Dose and Multiple‐Ascending‐Dose Study in Healthy Japanese Subjects, Using Intensive Electrocardiogram Assessments—Comparison With the Previous White Caucasian Thorough QT Study
Authors: Täubel J. , Ferber G. , Fernandes S. , Santamaría E. , Izquierdo I.
Published: August 2017

A thorough QT/QTc study in healthy white Caucasian subjects demonstrated that rupatadine has no proarrhythmic potential and raised no cardiac safety concerns. The present phase 1 study aimed to confirm the cardiac safety of rupatadine in healthy Japanese subjects. In this randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study, 27 healthy Japanese subjects were administered single and multiple escalating rupatadine doses of 10, 20, and 40 mg or placebo. Triplicate electrocardiogram (ECG) recordings were performed on days −1, 1, and 5 at several points, and time‐matched pharmacokinetic samples were also collected. Concentration–effect analysis based on the change in the QT interval corrected using Fridericia's formula (QTcF) from average baseline was performed. Data from the formal TQT study in white Caucasian subjects was used for a comparison analysis. The ECG data for rupatadine at doses up to 40 mg did not show an effect on the QTc interval of regulatory concern. The sensitivity of this study to detect small changes in the QTc interval was confirmed by demonstrating a significant shortening of QTcF on days 1 and 5 four hours after a standardized meal. The data from this study exhibited no statistically significant differences in the QTc effect between Japanese and white Caucasian subjects.
Characterization of Human Blood Monocytes and Intestinal Macrophages
Authors: Dennis Evida A. , Robinson Tanya O. , Smythies Lesley E. , Smith Phillip D.
Published: August 2017

Monocytes and macrophages play fundamental roles in defense against microbes, clearance of senescent and dead cells, and immunoregulation. Although blood monocytes are the source of intestinal macrophages in the developed mucosal immune system, blood monocytes and intestinal macrophages from healthy human subjects display distinct phenotypic and functional differences. Blood monocytes can be induced to polarize into M1 and M2 macrophages, whereas intestinal macrophages appear to be terminally differentiated and are unable to undergo such inducible polarization. Nevertheless, in response to local conditions, monocytes differentiated into intestinal macrophages display phenotypic and functional characteristics that enhance their capacity to provide non‐inflammatory host defense and participate in local immunoregulation. Using the protocols described here, this unit presents the key phenotypic and functional differences between human blood monocytes and intestinal macrophages, as well as between mouse and human intestinal macrophages. © 2017 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Generation of Recombinant Vaccinia Viruses
Authors: Wyatt Linda S. , Earl Patricia L. , Moss Bernard
Published: August 2017

This unit describes how to infect cells with vaccinia virus and then transfect them with a plasmid‐transfer vector or PCR fragment to generate a recombinant virus. Selection and screening methods used to isolate recombinant viruses and a method for the amplification of recombinant viruses are described. Finally, a method for live immunostaining that has been used primarily for detection of recombinant modified vaccinia virus Ankara (MVA) is presented. © 2017 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Preparation of Cell Cultures and Vaccinia Virus Stocks
Authors: Cotter Catherine A. , Earl Patricia L. , Wyatt Linda S. , Moss Bernard
Published: August 2017

The culturing of cell lines used with vaccinia virus, both as monolayer and in suspension, is described. The preparation of chick embryo fibroblasts (CEF) is presented for use in the production of the highly attenuated and host range‐restricted modified vaccinia virus Ankara (MVA) strain of vaccinia virus. Protocols for the preparation, titration, and trypsinization of vaccinia virus stocks, as well as viral DNA preparation and virus purification methods are also included. © 2017 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Fine‐scale distribution of moisture in the surface of a degraded blanket bog and its effects on the potential spread of smouldering fire
Authors: Prat‐Guitart Nuria , Belcher Claire M. , Thompson Dan K. , Burns Paul , Yearsley Jon M.
Published: August 2017

During rain‐free periods, the water table in peatlands falls and the moisture content (MC) of top 10 cm, including the moss layer, depends upon the hydrophysical properties and the responses of the local composition of species to water deficit. Thus, the ecosystem becomes vulnerable to surface peat fires. The spread of such fires is often irregular; however, there is little understanding of how the fine‐scale variation of peatMCcan affect the spread of smouldering fire.

We analyse the fine‐scale distribution of surfaceMCfrom a degraded blanket bog (i.e., horizontal intervals of 10 cm), thus indirectly analysing the effect of fine‐scaleMCdistribution on peat fire spread. We determine the relationship of vegetation and microtopography to the spatial distribution of near surfaceMCand the moisture gradient around patches of dry peat (less than 250%MC, moisture content in a dry mass basis). We found that theMCof the surface peat was distributed in clusters with dry patches (less than 250%MC) averaging 40 ± 15 cm in size. TheMCgradient surrounding dry patches was 10 ± 7%MC∙cm−1. A mixed‐effects model showed that dry patches were associated with lawns (of feather moss orSphagnum) and hummocks of feather moss. Our model showed that wet patches were associated with both hummocks and hollows ofSphagnum. Therefore, the characterization of the surfaceMCin a fine‐scale is critical if we are to understand the spread of fires in peatlands.
Diatoms to human uses: linking nitrogen deposition, aquatic eutrophication, and ecosystem services
Authors: Rhodes Charles , Bingham Andrew , Heard Andrea M. , Hewitt Julie , Lynch Jason , Waite Randall , Bell Michael D.
Published: August 2017

Nitrogen (N) loading to aquatic ecosystems can lead to eutrophication, changing the ecosystem within a waterbody, including primary productivity, water clarity, and food web dynamics. Nutrient loading often first affects the primary productivity of aquatic systems through shifts in phytoplankton communities. However, ecologically important changes in phytoplankton are often not relatable to the general public—whose behavior would need to change to alter patterns of nutrient loading. Therefore, we use the STressor–Ecological Production function–final ecosystem Services Framework to develop 154 chains that link changes in biological indicators of aquatic eutrophication (a shift in phytoplankton community) to final ecosystem services that people use or appreciate. We identify 13 ecological production functions (EPF) within three different ecosystems (alpine lakes, lakes, and estuaries) that connect changes in phytoplankton and algae to ecological endpoints that the general public and policy makers can appreciate. Using the Final Ecosystem Goods and Services Classification System, we identify 18 classes of human beneficiaries that potentially will be impacted by a change in one of these endpoints. We further assign strength‐of‐science scores to each link within the EPFs for the 154 chains according to how well each link is supported by current peer‐reviewed literature. By identifying many pathways through which excess N loading in U.S. surface waters can affect ecosystems and ultimately the beneficiaries of ecosystem services, this work intends to draw attention to gaps in empirical ecological literature that constrain understanding of the magnitude of effects that excess N loading can have on human well‐being. Results highlight the importance of intersections between the natural and social sciences when managers and policy makers evaluate impacts from ecological stressors. A balance between knowledgeable specialists proved key to applying this approach and will continue to remain important.
Clinical endpoints and adaptive clinical trials in precirrhotic nonalcoholic steatohepatitis: Facilitating development approaches for an emerging epidemic
Authors: Filozof Claudia , Chow Shein‐Chung , Dimick‐Santos Lara , Chen Yeh‐Fong , Williams Richard N. , Goldstein Barry J. , Sanyal Arun
Published: August 2017

Due to the increasing prevalence of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and its associated health burden, there is a high need to develop therapeutic strategies for patients with this disease. Unfortunately, its long and asymptomatic natural history, the uncertainties about disease progression, the fact that most patients are undiagnosed, and the requirement for sequential liver biopsies create substantial challenges for clinical development. Adaptive design methods are increasingly used in clinical research as they provide the flexibility and efficiency for identifying potential signals of clinical benefit of the test treatment under investigation and make prompt preplanned adaptations without undermining the validity or integrity of the trial. Given the high unmet medical need and the lack of validated surrogate endpoints in NASH, the use of adaptive design methods appears reasonable. Furthermore, due to the limited number of patients willing to have multiple liver biopsies and the need for long‐term exposure to assess an impact in outcomes, a continuous seamless adaptive design may reduce the overall sample size while allowing patients to continue after each one of the phases. Here, we review strategic frameworks that include potential surrogate endpoints as well as statistical and logistical approaches that could be considered for applying adaptive designs to clinical trials in NASH with the goal of facilitating drug development for this growing medical need. (Hepatology Communications 2017;1:577–585)
Prospective study of the feasibility and effectiveness of a second‐trimester quadruple test for Down syndrome in Thailand
Authors: Kaewsuksai Peeranan , Jitsurong Siroj
Published: August 2017

Objective

To evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of a quadruple test for Down syndrome in the second trimester of pregnancy in clinical settings in Thailand.

Methods

From October 2015 to September 2016, a prospective study was undertaken in 19 hospitals in Songkhla province, Thailand. Women with a singleton pregnancy of 14–18 weeks were enrolled and underwent the quadruple test. The risk cutoff value was set at 1:250. All women with a positive test (risk ≥1:250) were offered amniocentesis. Women were followed up until delivery.

Results

Among 2375 women, 206 (8.7%) had a positive quadruple test; 98 (47.6%) of these women voluntarily underwent amniocentesis. Overall, seven pregnancies were complicated with chromosomal abnormalities (2.9 cases in 1000), including four cases of Down syndrome (1.7 in 1000) and three of other abnormalities. The detection, false‐positive, and accuracy rates of the quadruple test for Down syndrome were 75.0%, 8.6%, and 91.4%, respectively.

Conclusion

The quadruple test was found to be a feasible and efficient method for screening for Down syndrome in the second trimester of pregnancy in a Thai clinical setting. The test should be performed for pregnant women before an invasive test for Down syndrome.
An investigation of shock wave therapy and low‐intensity pulsed ultrasound on fracture healing under reduced loading conditions in an ovine model
Authors: Gadomski Benjamin C. , McGilvray Kirk C. , Easley Jeremiah T. , Palmer Ross H. , Jiao Jian , Li Xiaofei , Qin Yi‐Xian , Puttlitz Christian M.
Published: August 2017

The use of shock wave therapy (SWT) and low‐intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) as countermeasures to the inhibited fracture healing experienced during mechanical unloading was investigated by administering treatment to the fracture sites of mature, female, Rambouillet Columbian ewes exposed to partial mechanical unloading or full gravitational loading. The amount of fracture healing experienced by the treatment groups was compared to controls in which identical surgical and testing protocols were administered except for SWT or LIPUS treatment. All groups were euthanized after a 28‐day healing period. In vivo mechanical measurements demonstrated no significant alteration in fixation plate strains between treatments within either partial unloading group. Similarly, DXA BMD and 4‐point bending stiffness were not significantly altered following either treatment. μCT analyses demonstrated lower callus bone volume for treated animals (SWT and LIPUS, p < 0.01) in the full gravity group but not between reduced loading groups. Callus osteoblast numbers as well as mineralized surface and bone formation rate were significantly elevated to the level of the full gravity groups in the reduced loading groups following both SWT and LIPUS. Although no increase in 4‐week mechanical strength was observed, it is possible that an increase in the overall rate of fracture healing (i.e., callus strength) may be experienced at longer time points under partial loading conditions given the increase in osteoblast numbers and bone formation parameters following SWT and LIPUS. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:921–929, 2018.
Application of Computer‐Aided Diagnosis on Breast Ultrasonography: Evaluation of Diagnostic Performances and Agreement of Radiologists According to Different Levels of Experience
Authors: Cho Eun , Kim Eun‐Kyung , Song Mi Kyung , Yoon Jung Hyun
Published: August 2017

Objectives

To investigate the feasibility of a computer‐aided diagnosis (CAD) system (S‐Detect; Samsung Medison, Co, Ltd, Seoul, Korea) for breast ultrasonography (US), according to radiologists with various degrees of experience in breast imaging.

Methods

From December 2015 to March 2016, 119 breast masses in 116 women were included. Ultrasonographic images of the breast masses were retrospectively reviewed and analyzed by 2 radiologists specializing in breast imaging (7 and 1 years of experience, respectively) and S‐Detect, according to the individual ultrasonographic descriptors from the fifth edition of the American College of Radiology Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System and final assessment categories. Diagnostic performance and the interobserver agreement among the radiologists and S‐Detect was calculated and compared.

Results

Among the 119 breast masses, 54 (45.4%) were malignant, and 65 (54.6%) were benign. Compared to the radiologists, S‐Detect had higher specificity (90.8% compared to 49.2% and 55.4%) and positive predictive value (PPV; 86.7% compared to 60.7% and 63.8%) (all P < .001). Both radiologists had significantly improved specificity, PPV, and accuracy when using S‐Detect compared to US alone (all P < .001). The area under the receiving operating characteristic curves of the both radiologists did not show a significant improvement when applying S‐Detect compared to US alone (all P > .05). Moderate agreement was seen in final assessments made by each radiologist and S‐Detect (κ = 0.40 and 0.45, respectively).

Conclusions

S‐Detect is a clinically feasible diagnostic tool that can be used to improve the specificity, PPV, and accuracy of breast US, with a moderate degree of agreement in final assessments, regardless of the experience of the radiologist.
Impact of glacial meltwater on spatiotemporal distribution of copepods and their grazing impact in Young Sound NE, Greenland
Authors: Middelbo Ane Bruun , Sejr Mikael Kristian , Arendt Kristine Engel , Møller Eva Friis
Published: August 2017

The melting of sea ice, increased terrestrial runoff and meltwater from the Greenland Ice Sheet contribute to increased freshening and stratification of Arctic seas. However, the impacts on ecosystem structure and carbon cycling are still poorly quantified. We studied copepod abundance, grazing, and carbon turnover in Young Sound, Northeast Greenland, during the ice‐free period from mid‐July to early October 2014 at four stations along the freshwater gradient from the inner fjord to the Greenland Sea. Freshwater enters the fjord as surface runoff from land‐terminating glaciers and forms a surface layer of high turbidity and low salinity limiting light availability and nutrient replenishment. This resulted in the inner station consistently having lower biomass of chlorophyll a, (average 21 mg m−2) compared to the outer station (47 mg m−2) and phytoplankton cells smaller than 10 μm constituted 89% at the inner station compared to 59% at the outer station. Copepod grazing rates were low on these small cells, which resulted in low copepods community grazing at the freshwater impacted site in the inner fjord. Daily grazing impact by copepods was about half of the daily primary production during July and August in the outer region of the fjord, but grazing impact was always less than 10% of the daily primary production in the inner fjord and in the late part of the open water season at all stations. Our study shows that meltwater driven stratification results in dominance of small phytoplankton cells, which directly impacts secondary producers and reduces transfer to higher trophic levels.
Swimming speeds of Mediterranean settlement‐stage fish larvae nuance Hjort's aberrant drift hypothesis
Authors: Faillettaz Robin , Durand Elysanne , Paris Claire B. , Koubbi Philippe , Irisson Jean‐Olivier
Published: August 2017

Historically, the mortality of early‐life stages of marine fishes was supposed to be mostly caused by poor feeding during a critical period and aberrant drifting away from favorable recruitment areas. While fish larvae may display remarkable swimming abilities, Hjort's aberrant drift hypothesis has rarely been tested. In this study, we measured critical swimming speed (Ucrit) of settlement‐stage larvae of six coastal, warm temperate Mediterranean fish species, for which no data were previously available (Sparidae: Boops boops, Diplodus annularis, Spicara smaris, Spondyliosoma cantharus; Pomacentridae: Chromis chromis; Mugilidae sp.). Their swimming speeds were comparable with those of other temperate species, but also with the speeds of tropical species, which are considered as very fast swimmers. Mugilidae were the fastest (29.2 cm s−1), followed by Pomacentridae (22.8 cm s−1) and Sparidae (11.6 cm s−1). Most larvae swam in an inertial regime (Reynolds number > 1000). Those swimming speeds were then implemented in a Lagrangian model of the competency period of these species, set in the same area (the Ligurian Sea) and at the same time (June 2014) as the observations. In this modeling experiment, directional swimming strongly increased the proportion of successful settlers, independent of mesoscale hydrological structures. Fish larvae could settle on the coast from as far as tens of kilometers offshore, in just 4 d. These findings suggest that aberrant drift is unlikely to occur for strong swimming temperate larvae and show that larval behavior should be considered on equal footing with ocean currents when assessing larval fish dispersal.
Coexisting depressive symptoms do not limit the benefits of chronic neuromodulation: A study of over 200 patients
Authors: Killinger Kim A. , Fergus Jonathan , Edwards Luke , Boura Judith A. , Bartley Jamie , Gupta Priyanka , Tomakowsky Janice , Gilleran Jason , Peters Kenneth M.
Published: August 2017

Aims

To examine the relationship between coexisting depressive symptoms and outcomes after staged neuromodulation procedures for refractory urological symptoms.

Methods

Adults who enrolled in a prospective database and completed a Personal Health Questionnaire Depression Scale (PHQ‐8) at baseline were reviewed. The PHQ‐8 and Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD‐7) assessed depressive/anxiety symptoms pre and 6 months post device implant. Urological symptoms were assessed with The Interstitial Cystitis Symptom Index/Problem Index (ICSI‐PI) and Overactive Bladder Questionnaire (OAB‐q) at baseline, 3 and 6 months, and Global Response Assessments (GRA) post implant. Subjects, grouped by PHQ <10 and PHQ ≥10, were compared with Pearson's Chi‐square, Fisher's Exact or Wilcoxon rank test, and Spearman's correlations.

Results

In 117 PHQ <10 and 84 PHQ ≥10 patients, age differed (mean 59 vs 52 years; P = 0.001), and PHQ <10 had lower GAD‐7, ICSI‐PI, and OAB‐q scores at baseline (P < 0.0001, P = 0.0003, and P < 0.0008, respectively). Implantation rates were similar between groups. Reoperation and complication rates within the first 6 months did not differ, similar proportions (majority) were improved on the GRA at each time point, and ICSI‐PI and OAB‐q scores improved significantly. PHQ scores only improved significantly for those with baseline PHQ ≥10. Baseline PHQ strongly correlated with GAD‐7 at baseline and 6 months, and baseline ICSI‐PI. Change in PHQ positively correlated with the change in GAD‐7, 6 month ICSI‐PI, and change in ICSI‐PI from baseline to 6 months.

Conclusions

Coexisting depressive symptoms do not limit the efficacy of neuromodulation and PHQ improvements correlate with improved anxiety and bladder symptoms.
Human–vehicle embodiment when predictability is violated
Authors: Tanida Koji , Paolini Marco , Silveira Sarita
Published: August 2017

Embodiment in human–vehicle interaction is higher for perceived safety than for perceived risk. When operational anticipations are violated, experiencing a vehicle as body‐extension is negatively correlated with operational effort as indicated by neural activation in the motor system.
The effects of initial vortex size on tropical cyclogenesis and intensification
Authors: Kilroy Gerard , Smith Roger K.
Published: August 2017

Three high‐resolution numerical simulations are carried out to investigate the effects of initial vortex size on tropical cyclogenesis and intensification, starting with a relatively weak initial vortex with a maximum tangential wind speed of 5 m s−1, but located at different radii. In all simulations, there is a progressive organization of convectively induced, cyclonic relative vorticity into a monopole structure. As the initial vortex size is increased, the organization occurs later. In addition, the size of the vorticity monopole, the sizes of the inner and outer core tangential wind circulations and the lifetime intensity of the vortex all become larger. An explanation for this behaviour is offered in terms of a boundary‐layer control of the overturning circulation. The findings are consistent with those of previous studies that bypass the genesis stage and start with appreciably stronger initial vortices.
Photovoltaics in the assessment of wireless sensor network reliability with changing environmental conditions
Authors: Kassan R. , Châtelet E.
Published: August 2017

This paper presents a reliability assessment of a wireless sensor network (WSN) equipped with mini photovoltaic cells (PV‐WSN) under natural environmental conditions while accounting for different types of system failures. In particular, our assessment considers the hardware specifications of the sensors, photovoltaic (PV) specifications, the use of rechargeable batteries, communication protocols, and various elements required for efficient detection of environmental conditions. We accomplished this by developing a simulator that generated data for 2 broad WSN conditions: (1) WSN without PV and (2) WSN with PV. The dynamic source routing protocol was employed for these simulations, and the following variables were assessed for both conditions: WSN reliability, the impact of energy consumption on the network, and the types of failures that lead to sensor unavailability. The following assumptions were made to run the simulation: the distribution of WSN nodes is random, with 1 sink node per rectangular cluster, the sensor nodes are structurally and functionally identical, environmental interference and suboptimal orientation impair PV cell recharge capacity randomly, and no communication loss occurs. Our reliability assessment assumed extreme environmental conditions and further made assessments of component reliability that included the following parameters: sensor and PV cell hardware specifications, the rechargeable nature of PV cell batteries for different sensor activity states, the availability of sunlight for powering PV cells, and the energy efficiency of PV cells. We found that network lifetime was prolonged for the PV‐WSN condition over the WSN without PV condition, introducing a role for PV cells as potential energy sources for WSNs.
Relating Environmental Performance of Nation States to Income and Income Inequality
Authors: Morse Stephen
Published: August 2017

This paper explores a number of ways in which environmental quality can be represented by indicators within empirical attempts to look for a relationship between environmental performance, income and income inequality. A total of 16 environmental performance indicators were selected where data were available at the national scale (180 countries), all of which were components of the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) published in early 2016, and included as dependent variables with income/capita (GDP/capita) and distribution of income (Gini coefficient) spanning nearly 20 years as independent variables. Data were analysed using principal component regression. The results generate a rather complex picture, whereby some of the EPI component indicators, notably those in the Environmental Health category, have a relationship with income and income distribution, while others, especially those centred on Ecosystem Vitality, do not. The paper provides some of the first published evidence for a relationship between environmental performance and income distribution and discusses some of the possible causal factors. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment
In Situ Generation of Core‐Shell Protein‐Based Microcapsules with Regulated Ion Absorbance Capacity
Authors: Zhou Pei , Wang Lei , Wu Guangyu , Zhou Yuting , Hegazy Mohammad , Huang Xin
Published: August 2017

In this study, we presented a way to generate organic/protein hybrid core‐shell micro‐compartment structure by in situ generating poly(o‐phenylenediamine) (POPD) nanoparticles inside a robust and flexible protein‐based shell. Both the size and number of the generated POPD core inside the protein microcapsules could be well varied by using different oxidants including, H2O2, tert‐butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP) and glucose oxidase (GO)/ glucose (Glu). Significantly, via operating the membrane permeability by either the cleavage of the conjugated polymer or additional formation of tannic acid/Fe3+ complex outer shell, the adsorption capacity towards Cu2+ of the constructed multiple cores in single shell model could be well modulated. In general, our studies contribute to the establishment of an improved model with its potential applications in catalysis system, biotechnology and biomedicine.
Grow Bimetallic Platinum‐Iridium Alloy on Reduced Graphene Oxide to Construct Hetero‐Atomic Bridge Catalysis toward Efficient Electrooxidation of Methanol
Authors: Zhou Ling , Zhao Zhi Liang , Zhang Lian Ying , An Hong Ming , Li Chang Ming
Published: August 2017

Bimetallic platinum‐iridium (PtIr) alloy on carbon has been reported to reduce Pt loading toward electrooxidation of ammonia. Herein ultra‐small bimetallic platinum‐iridium (PtIr) alloy nanocrystals are directly and uniformly grown on reduced graphene oxide (rGO) by a one‐pot solvothermal approach, and further used as a catalyst toward electrooxidation of methanol for the first time. The optimal Pt in PtIr/rGO can be as low as 80% while delivering extraordinarily higher catalytic current density than Pt/rGO and commercial Pt/C catalysts by 1.5 times and 2.6 times, respectively, and much better durability. Differently from the ammonia oxidation on PtIr/C, the remarkable improved electrocatalytic performance of Pt4Ir1/rGO with a much lower loading of Pt is mainly attributed to heteroatomically bridged catalysis of the Ir−Pt alloy, in which ‐OH easily forms on Ir surface via the atomic bridge to oxidize CO absorbed on Pt surface for greatly boosting the catalytic performance of methanol oxidation. The highly conductive graphene support also has positive impact on the excellent catalytic performance. This work provides a facile approach to fabricate low‐loaded Pt but highly active anode catalyst for direct methanol fuel cells, and the hetero‐atomic bridged catalytic process in an electrode kinetics may make a universal significance.
Caryosyntrips: a radiodontan from the Cambrian of Spain, USA and Canada
Authors: Pates Stephen , Daley Allison C.
Published: August 2017

Caryosyntrips appendages have previously been reported from the Burgess Shale (Cambrian, Stage 5), British Columbia, Canada. New specimens of the genus are here reported from the Wheeler Formation (Cambrian, Drumian) and Langston Formation, Spence Shale Member (Cambrian, Stage 5), Utah, USA. The original Burgess Shale specimens are re‐examined alongside the new specimens. Caryosyntrips is shown to have paired ventral spines on each podomere. Three species of Caryosyntrips are recognized: C. serratus Daley & Budd, C. camurus sp. nov. and C. durus sp. nov., differentiated by the overall shape of their appendages and arrangement of dorsal and ventral spines. These differences have potential implications for the feeding methods employed by different species of Caryosyntrips. A specimen collected from the upper Valdemiedes Formation of Spain (Cambrian, Stage 4), previously described as the lobopodian Mureropodia apae Gámez Vintaned et al., is reinterpreted as a Caryosyntrips appendage. This identification is supported by the overall shape of the fossil, and the presence, orientation and length:width ratio of ventral spines. However the dorsal surface of the appendage is not well preserved, and the appendage and its ventral spines are larger than those of other known Caryosyntrips. Therefore it is left in open nomenclature as C. cf. camurus. These new finds increase the temporal range of Caryosyntrips (Cambrian Series 2, Stage 4 to Series 3, Drumian) and the geographical range to a new continent: Gondwana.
Association of Areca Nut Chewing With Risk of Erectile Dysfunction
Authors: Huang Yung-Jui , Jiann Bang-Ping
Published: August 2017

Introduction

Areca nut chewing has been shown to increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, but its association with erectile dysfunction (ED) has not been investigated.

Aim

To investigate the association between areca nut chewing and risk of ED.

Methods

Consecutive men at public health centers for oral malignancy screening or health checkup were invited to complete a questionnaire.

Main Outcome Measure

The Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM).

Results

Of the 2,652 respondents, 1,038 (mean age = 43.8 ± 11.1 years) were eligible for the areca nut chewing group and 1,090 non-areca nut chewers were selected as the age-matched control group. In the areca nut group, the mean duration of chewing was 13.2 ± 9.6 years, 61.7% consumed more than 10 portions per day, and 76.2% used it with betel leaf, 16.7% used it with betel inflorescence, and 7.1% used it with betel leaf and inflorescence. Smoking, alcohol drinking, obesity, hypertension, and diabetes were more predominant in areca nut chewers compared with controls. ED defined by self-report and by SHIM score was more prevalent in areca nut chewers than in controls (13.7% vs 9.8% and 48.7% vs 43.3%, respectively; P < .05 for the two comparisons). Areca nut use with betel inflorescence was associated with a higher risk of ED (odds ratio = 2.25, 95% confidence interval = 1.55–3.28) with a dose-dependent effect, whereas using it with betel leaf was not (odds ratio = 1.00, 95% confidence interval = 0.79–1.26) after adjustment of possible confounders.

Conclusion

Areca nut chewing with betel inflorescence was associated with an increased risk of ED. These findings warrant further studies.

Huang Y-J, Jiann B-P. Association of Areca Nut Chewing With Risk of Erectile Dysfunction. Sex Med 2017;5:e163–e168.
Is Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus More Prevalent Than Expected in Transgender Persons? A Local Observation
Authors: Defreyne Justine , De Bacquer Dirk , Shadid Samyah , Lapauw Bruno , T’Sjoen Guy
Published: August 2017

The International Diabetes Federation estimates that approximately 0.4% of the Belgian population is diagnosed with type 1 diabetes mellitus, which is similar to other industrialized countries. The prevalence of transgenderism is estimated at 0.6% to 0.7% of all adults in Western populations. In this study, we evaluated whether there was an increased prevalence of type 1 diabetes mellitus in transgender people in the local cohort. Medical records of transgender patients were analyzed retrospectively. From January 1, 2007 until October 10, 2016, 1,081 transgender patients presented at a tertiary reference center to start hormonal treatment. Nine of these 1,081 patients were previously diagnosed with type 1 diabetes mellitus and 1 was diagnosed with latent autoimmune diabetes in adults. A 2.3-fold higher prevalence of type 1 diabetes mellitus was observed in transgender patients. We concluded that type 1 diabetes mellitus was more prevalent in transgender patients than one would expect from population prevalences. This could be a spurious result in a local cohort, because a causal relation seems unlikely, but our finding might encourage other centers to investigate this putative association.

Defreyne J, De Bacquer D, Shadid S, et al. Is Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus More Prevalent Than Expected in Transgender Persons? A Local Observation. Sex Med 2017;5:e215–e218.
Red, blue and purple states of mind: Segmenting the political marketplace
Authors: Rao Akshay R.
Published: August 2017

John Jost (2017 – this issue) provides a thoughtful review of the literature in political psychology that speaks to important distinctions between conservatives and progressives. I use his essay as a point of departure to accomplish three goals: a) further elaborate on the left/right segmentation scheme, identifying other portions of the political market that are less brand loyal and therefore more persuadable; b) offer preliminary suggestions based on consumer psychology perspectives on how voter attitudes and behaviors might be nudged by political candidates and campaigns; and c) identify some areas in which the fields of political and consumer psychology might profitably benefit from cross‐pollination of theories, approaches and evidence.
Development of powder injection molding process for sintered soft magnet with the addition of Fe-17 at.% P powder
Authors: Shin Da Seul , Jung Im Doo , Kim Hwi Jun , Park Seong Jin
Published: August 2017

Soft magnetic powder injection molding is a net-shape production technology to fabricate sintered soft magnets. Powder injection molding technology for soft magnetic materials can be expected to develop a new type of electromagnetic components with the miniaturization and complexity design. In this work, 8 wt.% of iron-phosphorus powders (Fe-17 at.% P) were added to carbonyl iron powders to improve the magnetic performances with PIM process. Soft magnetic feedstocks were fabricated by optimized PIM process using a wax-based binder system. The critical solids loading of feedstocks were measured to determine the optimal solids loading, and injection molding process was conducted for the PIMed soft magnetic parts. The effect of Fe-17 at.% P addition to carbonyl iron powder was investigated on the sintering behaviors and magnetic properties. It was observed that sample with Fe-17 at.% P addition had optimum relative density (99.8%) and magnetic polarization (28,299 Gauss) at sintering temperature 1400°C in a hydrogen atmosphere.
The CIA and the Politics of US Intelligence Reform
Authors: Durbin Brent
Published: August 2017

Examining the political foundations of American intelligence policy, this book develops a new theory of intelligence adaptation to explain the success or failure of major reform efforts since World War II. Durbin draws on careful case histories of the early Cold War, the Nixon and Ford administrations, the first decade after the Cold War, and the post-9/11 period, looking closely at the interactions among Congress, executive branch seniors, and intelligence officials. These cases demonstrate the significance of two factors in the success or failure of reform efforts: the level of foreign policy consensus in the system, and the ability of reformers to overcome the information advantages held by intelligence agencies. As these factors ebb and flow, windows of opportunity for reform open and close, and different actors and interests come to influence reform outcomes. Durbin concludes that the politics of US intelligence frequently inhibit effective adaptation, affecting America's security and the civil liberties of its citizens.
Maritime flight trials of the Southampton University laser sintered aircraft–Project Albatross
Authors: Keane A. , Scanlan J. , Lock A. , Ferraro M. , Spillane P. , Breen J.
Published: August 2017

As part of the ongoing development of small unmanned air systems by the University of Southampton, an all laser sintered aircraft has been test flown from the Royal Navy's ice patrol ship HMS Protector to assist with navigating through the Antarctic. These flights were carried out with pre-planned autopilot control with oversight from Andrew Lock, acting as the pilot embarked on HMS Protector. This is the first time the Royal Navy has used unmanned aerial vehicles in this part of the world. In this paper, we set out the trial reports and lessons learnt from this series of test flights.
Business Responsibilities for Human Rights: A Commentary on Arnold
Authors: HSIEH Nien-hê
Published: August 2017

Human rights have come to play a prominent role in debates about the responsibilities of business. In the business ethics literature, there are two approaches to the question of whether businesses have human rights obligations. The ‘moral’ approach conceives of human rights as antecedently existing basic moral rights. The ‘institutional’ approach starts with contemporary human rights practice in which human rights refer to rights enumerated in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and subsequent international documents, and in which states are the primary duty bearers of human rights. This commentary argues that the implications of adopting one or the other approach are much greater than most scholars recognize, and that we have reason to reject the moral approach and to adopt the institutional approach instead. The commentary highlights key questions that need to be addressed if human rights are to play a central role in framing the responsibilities of business.
Moral Psychology, Stability and The Law of Peoples
Authors: Reidy David A.
Published: August 2017

In this paper I take seriously Rawls’s characterization of his The Law of Peoples as carrying forward the project of Political Liberalism. The latter articulates Rawls’s reworking of the stability argument from Part III of A Theory of Justice to better square it with the permanent fact of reasonable doctrinal pluralism under conditions of freedom and right. As presented in Theory the stability argument is an argument from moral psychology. This moral psychology structures the problem generated by doctrinal pluralism in both Political Liberalism and The Law of Peoples, each of which sets out a consistent principled liberal response to it, the former in the domestic, and the latter in the international, context. Bringing this moral psychology to the surface sheds considerable light on Rawls’s attempt to vindicate the possibility of world hospitable to enduring just and stable constitutional liberal democracies governed by legitimate law.
Between Legal Technique and Legal Policy: Remarks on Hans Kelsen’s Constitutional Theory
Authors: Sólyom Péter
Published: August 2017

In this article I seek to re-interpret some of the problems characteristic of Kelsen’s constitutional theory. I shall do so by making use of the Kelsenian perspectives of the legal scholar and the policy-maker as developed in his Pure Theory of Law. I shall argue that in his discussion of constitutional policy issues, Kelsen’s treatises mix legal theoretical arguments (related to the perspective of the legal scholar) with the practical approach of legal policy. My main contention is that political principles are more important for the use of Kelsen’s legal theoretical concepts than usually acknowledged in generally accepted interpretations. The Pure Theory of Law is based on the rejection of autocratic legal thinking, and may be regarded as a formalistic theory of law for a democratic rule of law. Such a conclusion, however, also means that Kelsen’s views concerning the methodology of legal theory are no longer tenable.
A Conceptual Analysis of Conceptual Analysis in Analytic Jurisprudence
Authors: Zanghellini Aleardo
Published: August 2017

Conceptual analysis remains the methodology of much contemporary mainstream jurisprudence. The last fifteen years have seen significant contributions addressing the nature of conceptual analysis in legal theory, but many questions have not been answered in a satisfactory way. These questions can be more clearly addressed if we appreciate: a) that there is a central case of conceptual analysis; and b) the ways in which non-paradigmatic cases of conceptual analysis differ from the central one. Among other things, the article argues that conceptual analysis is necessary but not sufficient to a full understanding of the nature of law. Some knowledge about law is impervious to conceptual analysis but not to empirical social science. The reverse is also true. In explaining the meaning of ‘conceptual analysis’ the article also enacts conceptual analysis: the method the article uses to clarify the nature of conceptual analysis is precisely the method known as ‘conceptual analysis’.
The Emergence of an Export Cluster: Traders and Palm Oil in Early Twentieth-Century Southeast Asia
Authors: GIACOMIN VALERIA
Published: August 2017

Malaysia and Indonesia account for 90 percent of global exports of palm oil, forming one of the largest agricultural clusters in the world. This article uses archival sources to trace how this cluster emerged from the rubber business in the era of British and Dutch colonialism. Specifically, the rise of palm oil in this region was due to three interrelated factors: (1) the institutional environment of the existing rubber cluster; (2) an established community of foreign traders; and (3) a trading hub in Singapore that offered a multitude of advanced services. This analysis stresses the historical dimension of clusters, which has been neglected in the previous management and strategy works, by connecting cluster emergence to the business history of trading firms. The article also extends the current literature on cluster emergence by showing that the rise of this cluster occurred parallel, and intimately related, to the product specialization within international trading houses.
Is There a Case for Mandatory Reporting of Racism in Schools?
Authors: Auld Glenn
Published: August 2017

This paper explores how the colonial hegemony of racism in Australia could be disrupted in schools by introducing mandatory reporting of racism by teachers in Australia, and addresses the benefits and risks of mandatory reporting of racism. Using Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders as a case study, the ongoing prevalence of racism in schools is established. I then draw on the literature associated with teachers’ mandatory reporting of child abuse and neglect to construct racism as a form of emotional abuse of children. The complexity of racism as evidenced from the literature limits the mandatory reporting to interactional racism by teachers as an antiracist practice. The justification for mandatory reporting covers the emotional stress caused by racism to students and can also be extended to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff in schools. The evidence of learning success where antiracism strategies have been introduced in schools, the opportunity to normalise bystander antiracism by teachers, and the alignment of this reporting initiative with the professional standards of teachers together support a case for mandatory reporting of racism in schools. The arguments against mandatory reporting of racism draw on the generative practices of teachers integrating antiracist discourses in schools.