bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epigenetic response of endothelial cells to different wall shear stress magnitudes: A report of new mechano‐miRNAs
Authors: Rashad Sherif , Han Xiaobo , Saqr Khalid , Tupin Simon , Ohta Makoto , Niizuma Kuniyasu , Tominaga Teiji
Published: January 2020

Endothelial cells (ECs) respond to flow stress via a variety of mechanisms, leading to various intracellular responses that can modulate the vessel wall and lead to diseases if the flow is disturbed. Mechano‐microRNAs (miRNAs) are a subset of miRNAs in the ECs that are flow responsive. Mechano‐miRNAs were shown to be related to atherosclerosis pathophysiology, and a number of them were identified as pathologic. Here, we exposed human carotid ECs to different wall shear stresses (WSS), high and low, and evaluated the response of miRNAs by microarray and quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis. We discovered five new mechano‐miRNAs that were not reported in that context previously to the best of our knowledge. Moreover, functional pathway analysis revealed that under low WSS conditions, several pathways regulating apoptosis are affected. In addition, KLF2 and KLF4, known atheroprotective genes, were downregulated under low WSS and upregulated under high WSS. KLF2 and VCAM1, both angiogenic, were upregulated under high WSS. NOS3, which is vascular protective, was also upregulated with higher WSS. On the contrary, ICAM‐1 and E‐selectin, both atherogenic and proinflammatory, were upregulated with high WSS. Collectively, the epigenetic landscape with the gene expression analysis reveals that low WSS is associated with a proapoptotic state, while high WSS is associated with a proliferative and proinflammatory state.
Neratinib degrades MST4 via autophagy that reduces membrane stiffness and is essential for the inactivation of PI3K, ERK1/2, and YAP/TAZ signaling
Authors: Dent Paul , Booth Laurence , Poklepovic Andrew , Martinez Jennifer , Hoff Daniel Von , Hancock John F.
Published: January 2020

The irreversible ERBB1/2/4 inhibitor neratinib causes plasma membrane‐associated K‐RAS to mislocalize into intracellular vesicles liminal to the plasma membrane; this effect is enhanced by HDAC inhibitors and is now a Phase I trial (NCT03919292). The combination of neratinib and HDAC inhibitors killed pancreatic cancer and lymphoma T cells. Neratinib plus HDAC inhibitor exposure was as efficacious as (paclitaxel+gemcitabine) at killing pancreatic cancer cells. Neratinib reduced the phosphorylation of PAK1, Merlin, LATS1/2, AKT, mTOR, p70 S6K, and ERK1/2 which required expression of Rubicon, Beclin1, and Merlin. Neratinib altered pancreatic tumor cell morphology which was associated with MST4 degradation reduced Ezrin phosphorylation and enhanced phosphorylation of MAP4K4 and LATS1/2. Knockdown of the MAP4K4 activator and sensor of membrane rigidity RAP2A reduced basal LATS1/2 and YAP phosphorylation but did not prevent neratinib from stimulating LATS1/2 or YAP phosphorylation. Beclin1 knockdown prevented MST4 degradation, Ezrin dephosphorylation and neratinib‐induced alterations in tumor cell morphology. Our findings demonstrate that neratinib enhances LATS1/2 phosphorylation independently of RAP2A/MAP4K4 and that MST4 degradation and Ezrin dephosphorylation may represent a universal trigger for the biological actions of neratinib.
New opportunities in tuberculosis prevention: implications for people living with HIV
Authors: González Fernández Lucia , Casas Esther C , Singh Satvinder , Churchyard Gavin J , Brigden Grania , Gotuzzo Eduardo , Vandevelde Wim , Sahu Suvanand , Ahmedov Sevim , Kamarulzaman Adeeba , Ponce‐de‐León Alfredo , Grinsztejn Beatriz , Swindells Susan
Published: January 2020

Introduction

Tuberculosis (TB) is a leading cause of mortality among people living with HIV (PLHIV). An invigorated global END TB Strategy seeks to increase efforts in scaling up TB preventive therapy (TPT) as a central intervention for HIV programmes in an effort to contribute to a 90% reduction in TB incidence and 95% reduction in mortality by 2035. TPT in PLHIV should be part of a comprehensive approach to reduce TB transmission, illness and death that also includes TB active case‐finding and prompt, effective and timely initiation of anti‐TB therapy among PLHIV. However, the use and implementation of preventive strategies has remained deplorably inadequate and today TB prevention among PLHIV has become an urgent priority globally.

Discussion

We present a summary of the current and novel TPT regimens, including current evidence of use with antiretroviral regimens (ART). We review challenges and opportunities to scale‐up TB prevention within HIV programmes, including the use of differentiated care approaches and demand creation for effective TB/HIV services delivery. TB preventive vaccines and diagnostics, including optimal algorithms, while important topics, are outside of the focus of this commentary.

Conclusions

A number of new tools and strategies to make TPT a standard of care in HIV programmes have become available. The new TPT regimens are safe and effective and can be used with current ART, with attention being paid to potential drug‐drug interactions between rifamycins and some classes of antiretrovirals. More research and development is needed to optimize TPT for small children, pregnant women and drug‐resistant TB (DR‐TB). Effective programmatic scale‐up can be supported through context‐adapted demand creation strategies and the inclusion of TPT in client‐centred services, such as differentiated service delivery (DSD) models. Robust collaboration between the HIV and TB programmes represents a unique opportunity to ensure that TB, a preventable and curable condition, is no longer the number one cause of death in PLHIV.
Scaling Up for Sustainable Development: Benefits and Costs of Expanding and Optimizing Balance Sheet in the Multilateral Development Banks
Authors: Munir Waqas , Gallagher Kevin P.
Published: January 2020

Multilateral development banks (MDBs) seemingly face a dilemma whereby rating agencies require them to maintain low‐risk profiles; otherwise, they may be at risk of downgrade. Meanwhile, MDBs are faced with the pressure to increase quantum of their lending operations. This paper estimates the lending headroom available to ‘AAA'‐rated MDBs under scenarios that attempt to manage both of these parameters. Our estimates suggest that MDBs can collectively increase their lending between US$598billion and US$1268billion (65–137 per cent) and that for at least four MDBs, the policy option of opting for ‘AA+' may possibly be a viable case. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cystathionine beta synthase deficiency and brain edema associated with methionine excess under betaine supplementation: Four new cases and a review of the evidence
Authors: Schwahn Bernd C. , Scheffner Thomas , Stepman Hedwig , Verloo Peter , Das Anibh M , Fletcher Janice , Blom Henk J , Benoist Jean‐Francois , Barshop Bruce A. , Barea Jaime J. , Feigenbaum Annette
Published: January 2020

CBS deficient individuals undergoing betaine supplementation without sufficient dietary methionine restriction can develop severe hypermethioninemia and brain edema. Brain edema has also been observed in individuals with severe hypermethioninemia without concomitant betaine supplementation. We systematically evaluated reports from 11 published and 4 unpublished patients with CBS deficiency and from additional four cases of encephalopathy in association with elevated methionine. We conclude that, while betaine supplementation does greatly exacerbate methionine accumulation, the primary agent causing brain edema is methionine rather than betaine. Clinical signs of increased intracranial pressure have not been seen in patients with plasma methionine levels below 559 μmol/L but occurred in one patient whose levels did not knowingly exceed 972 μmol/L at the time of manifestation. While levels below 500 μmol/L can be deemed safe it appears that brain edema can develop with plasma methionine levels close to 1000 μmol/L. Patients with CBS deficiency on betaine supplementation need to be regularly monitored for concordance with their dietary plan and for plasma methionine concentrations. Recurrent methionine levels above 500 μmol/L should alert clinicians to check for clinical signs and symptoms of brain edema and review dietary methionine intake. Levels approaching 1000 μmol/L do increase the risk of complications and levels exceeding 1000 μmol/L, despite best dietetic efforts, should be acutely addressed by reducing the prescribed betaine dose.
Peri‐left bundle branch pacing after atrioventricular node ablation and failed his bundle pacing in atrial fibrillation
Authors: Tondas Alexander Edo , Pranata Raymond , Hongwei Han
Published: January 2020

We described a case where peri‐left bundle branch pacing (PLBP) may become an alternative approach in difficult His bundle pacing (HBP) following atrioventricular nodal ablation in a patient with atrial fibrillation. After atrioventricular nodal ablation, the HBP lead was removed to another LBB position distal to the first PLBP lead, due to acute threshold increase. At 3 month follow‐up, PLBP exhibited acceptable pacing parameters without any adverse event.
Does Coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara L.) have an autumn temperature control to limit precocious flowering in spring?
Authors: Sparks Tim H. , Buras Allan , Estrella Nicole , Menzel Annette
Published: January 2020

The flowering phenology of Coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara L.) shows a very strong negative response to warmer temperatures in spring (warmer springs = earlier flowering) as reported in numerous studies for other species in Europe and North America. However, despite this, flowering dates in some locations have failed to show a strong advance and, in a small number of cases, have even shown significant delays. Here we use a very extensive data set on first flowering dates (FFD) of Coltsfoot in Germany, firstly on a national scale in the period 1894–2015 and secondly at a regional level in the more thoroughly recorded period from 1951–2015. FFDs were coupled with gridded temperature data using regression techniques to attempt to understand the reasons for the unexpected changes in phenology. National mean FFD did not change significantly over 122 years, although January–March mean temperatures had warmed by 1.2°C. The flowering‐temperature model was significantly improved when the previous September mean temperature was included, which decreased the overall temperature response from 4.5 to 3.7 days/°C. For the more thoroughly recorded period of 1951–2015, January–March mean temperature warmed significantly by 1.7–2.4°C in all 11 German federal state combinations and mean FFD dates advanced by 3–14 days, significant for seven of the States. For 10 of the 11 States, multiple linear regressions explained 79–89% of the observed variation in FFD and evidenced a positive relationship (significant in half of these) with higher temperature in the September preceding flowering (warmer September = later flowering). However, the scale of the September influence is insufficient to explain why Coltsfoot flowering may have stalled or been delayed. The use of controlled experiments to supplement observational data may be necessary to fully understand the drivers of Coltsfoot flowering in spring.
Surgical intervention for exercise‐induced laryngeal obstruction: A UK perspective
Authors: Famokunwa Bamidele , Sandhu Guri , Hull James H.
Published: January 2020

Objectives

Exercise‐induced laryngeal obstruction (EILO) is a prevalent cause of exertional breathlessness and wheeze in young individuals. Typically diagnosed using the continuous laryngoscopy during exercise (CLE) test, treatment is largely based on breathing retraining promoting improved laryngeal function. In some cases, these techniques fail to alleviate symptoms, and surgical intervention with supraglottoplasty can be valuable in the supraglottic form of EILO. Globally, there is currently limited experience utilizing a surgical approach to EILO, and data regarding the optimum surgical technique and published outcomes and complication rates are thus limited.

Study Design

Retrospective observational case series.

Methods

In this report, we describe our experience as the only UK center undertaking supraglottoplasty for EILO. We report the surgical outcome of 19 patients (n = 16 female), mean age, 29.6 ± 13.1 years, referred for surgery with moderate to severe supraglottic EILO. Follow‐up clinic ± CLE was performed within 4 months (median = 6 weeks), and CLE scores were evaluated before and following surgery.

Results

We found a beneficial effect of surgery on supraglottic CLE scores (median score reducing from 3/3 to 1/3 postoperatively [P < .05] overall) with 79% (n = 15) of patients reporting an improvement in their exercise capacity. One patient developed an apparent increased tendency for glottic‐level EILO following surgery; however, no voice‐ or swallowing‐related complications were encountered.

Conclusions

This study is the first to report the UK experience, surgical technique, and outcome for EILO surgery. The findings indicate that EILO surgery appears to be a safe and effective option for individuals with moderate to severe supraglottic‐type EILO who have failed initial conservative treatment.

Level of Evidence

5 Laryngoscope, 130:E667–E673, 2020
Soil bacterial community succession during desertification in a desert steppe ecosystem
Authors: Fan Miaochun , Li Jiajia , Tang Zhuangsheng , Shangguan Zhouping
Published: January 2020

Desertification often occurs in fragile steppe ecosystems, which may lead to severe soil degradation. Understanding how soil microbial communities respond to desertification is critical for ecological restoration of degraded desert steppes. We used an Ion S5™ XL sequencing platform to explore the soil bacterial community succession across four desertification stages in a desert steppe in Ningxia, China. The results showed that soils from potential to light desertification stage had similar physicochemical properties, whereas significantly lower macronutrients, silt, and clay contents and higher pH, moisture, and sand contents were observed in the severe and very severe stages . Due to change in soil conditions, bacterial communities shifted drastically across the four stages. Variation in bacterial community composition was driven mainly by the deterministic processes (i.e., habitat filtering based on resource availability and space limitations), but their effects decreased toward the very severe desertification stage. More potential indicator species including members of the genera Nitrosomonas, Pirellula, and Methylobacterium were selected to predict very severe desertification relative to the other three stages. These potential indicators could survive in a wide range of habitats with low availability of carbon and nitrogen sources. Co‐occurrence network analysis revealed that most of soil microorganisms might form symbiotic relationships in response to the habitat heterogeneity caused by desertification. In conclusion, as desertification intensified, distinct shifts in soil bacterial communities were driven primarily by the deterministic processes, which provide new insights for the restoration of degraded habitats and sustainable development of land resources.
The green mate appeal: Men's pro‐environmental consumption is an honest signal of commitment to their partner
Authors: Borau Sylvie , Elgaaied‐Gambier Leila , Barbarossa Camilla
Published: January 2020

Green consumption is associated with femininity. This green‐feminine stereotype has been accused of deterring men from buying green products to protect their gender identity. Here, we investigate whether men can benefit from this green‐feminine stereotype, beyond the status effect of green conspicuous consumption. We propose that green consumption can act as a signal of altruism and high commitment both as a partner and as a father. Based on evidence showing that these traits are sought in a long‐term partner, we predict that men can increase their value as long‐term mates by engaging in green consumption. We also investigate whether men involved in a long‐term mating relationship are indeed eco‐friendlier, testing the novel hypothesis that green consumption is an honest signal of commitment. Finally, we specify the type of commitment that is associated with men's green consumption. Across six studies, our findings suggest that green consumption is an honest signal of men's long‐term mating value and that it is a more reliable sign of partner commitment than of father commitment. We discuss how companies and governments can use these findings to increase green consumption among men.
User‐generated content in the era of digital well‐being: A netnographic analysis in a healthcare marketing context
Authors: Cuomo Maria Teresa , Tortora Debora , Giordano Alex , Festa Giuseppe , Metallo Gerardino , Martinelli Erika
Published: January 2020

The disruptive strength of digital technologies in healthcare has led to valuable changes in the search for information and the application of these technologies. The introduction of these technologies has altered, sometimes even inverting, the doctor–patient relationship. User‐generated content on social media and online communities represents a form of disruptive cooperation that has huge potential benefits for the future growth of society. Using netnographic analysis of smart patients and data from an online survey of Italian oncologists and health professionals, this paper shows the impact of user‐generated content on the pursuit of personal well‐being. The linkages between new forms of knowledge, business, and innovation are highlighted. Based on an analysis of the emerging concept of systems medicine, this paper focuses on the dimension of participation. A data‐driven approach is adopted, and the data, information, knowledge, and wisdom framework is used to explain how people employ user‐generated content in their pursuit of well‐being. Managerial perspectives and suggestions for future research developments are discussed.
Existence results for a fractional elliptic system with critical Sobolev‐Hardy exponents and concave‐convex nonlinearities
Authors: Zhang Jinguo , Hsu Tsing‐San
Published: January 2020

In this paper, we study the following nonlinear fractional Laplacian system with critical Sobolev‐Hardy exponent

where
is a smooth bounded domain in
,
,
,
,
,
,
satisfy
,
is the critical Sobolev‐Hardy exponent,
,
are parameters,
,
and
are nonnegative functions on
. Using the variational methods and analytic techniques, we prove that the critical fractional Laplacian system admits at least two positive solutions when the pair of parameters
belongs to a suitable subset of
.
Flavonoid‐Derived Human Phenyl‐γ‐Valerolactone Metabolites Selectively Detoxify Amyloid‐β Oligomers and Prevent Memory Impairment in a Mouse Model of Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Ruotolo Roberta , Minato Ilaria , La Vitola Pietro , Artioli Luisa , Curti Claudio , Franceschi Valentina , Brindani Nicoletta , Amidani Davide , Colombo Laura , Salmona Mario , Forloni Gianluigi , Donofrio Gaetano , Balducci Claudia , Del Rio Daniele , Ottonello Simone
Published: January 2020

Scope

Amyloid‐β oligomers (AβO) are causally related to Alzheimer's disease (AD). Dietary natural compounds, especially flavonoids and flavan‐3‐ols, hold great promise as potential AD‐preventive agents but their host and gut microbiota metabolism complicates identification of the most relevant bioactive species. This study aims to investigate the ability of a comprehensive set of phenyl‐γ‐valerolactones (PVL), the main circulating metabolites of flavan‐3‐ols and related dietary compounds in humans, to prevent AβO‐mediated toxicity.

Methods and results

The anti‐AβO activity of PVLs is examined in different cell model systems using a highly toxic β‐oligomer‐forming polypeptide (β23) as target toxicant. Multiple PVLs, and particularly the monohydroxylated 5‐(4′‐hydroxyphenyl)‐γ‐valerolactone metabolite [(4′‐OH)‐PVL], relieve β‐oligomer‐induced cytotoxicity in yeast and mammalian cells. As revealed by atomic force microscopy (AFM) and other in vitro assays, (4′‐OH)‐PVL interferes with AβO (but not fibril) assembly and actively remodels preformed AβOs into nontoxic amorphous aggregates. In keeping with the latter mode of action, treatment of AβOs with (4′‐OH)‐PVL prior to brain injection strongly reduces memory deterioration as well as neuroinflammation in a mouse model of AβO‐induced memory impairment.

Conclusion

PVLs, which have been validated as biomarkers of the dietary intake of flavan‐3‐ols, lend themselves as novel AβO‐selective, candidate AD‐preventing compounds.
Compact broadband printed quasi‐Yagi antenna with series‐fed double monopole
Authors: Chaudhari Amar D. , Ray K. P.
Published: January 2020

In this study, a new configuration of a low profile, broadband printed quasi‐Yagi antenna with two directly fed monopoles has been proposed. The property of a printed monopole antenna with a simple microstrip feed‐line has been used to simplify feeding structure of the printed quasi‐Yagi antenna. A broad bandwidth is achieved by cascading another monopole element of different lengths in a series to obtain two nearby resonances. The proposed antenna consists of two driven monopoles on one side of the dielectric substrate, whereas, on the other side, a reflector and a director are realized as parasitic monopole elements, directly on the ground plane. The measured impedance bandwidth of 70.2% (1.46‐3.05 GHz) with stable gain ranging from 4.7 to 5.3 dBi in the entire bandwidth has been achieved. The antenna has the front‐to‐back ratio better than 10 dB and cross‐polarization level below −20 dB in the direction of maximum radiation over the entire bandwidth. The simulated performance of the antenna has been experimentally verified with good agreement.
Low‐loss frequency selective surface for multi‐band THz transmission measurement
Authors: Yang Xiaofan , Zeng Yonghu , Liu Xiaoming , Zhou Jun , Gan Lu , Chen Hao , Yu Junsheng
Published: January 2020

Frequency selective surface is a key component in a quasi‐optical system enabling multi‐band operation. This work presents the design, fabrication and measurement of a low‐loss frequency selective surface in a quasi‐optical system for terahertz transmission measurement to separate 220 to 260 GHz and 325 to 340 GHz bands. High‐precision milling technique was employed for fabrication. The measurement was conducted using a terahertz time domain spectroscopy and a home‐made quasi‐optical test bench. Good agreement was achieved between the measured results and simulated ones. The design and measurement methods can be applied to frequency selective surfaces working in other millimeter wave bands.
What is the form of muscimol from fly agaric mushroom (Amanita muscaria) in water? An insight from NMR experiment supported by molecular modeling
Authors: Kupka Teobald , Broda Małgorzata A. , Wieczorek Piotr P.
Published: January 2020

The biologically active alkaloid muscimol is present in fly agaric mushroom (Amanita muscaria), and its structure and action is related to human neurotransmitter γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA). The current study reports on determination of muscimol form present in water solution using multinuclear 1H and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) experiments supported by density functional theory molecular modeling. The structures of three forms of free muscimol molecule both in the gas phase and in the presence of water solvent, modeled by polarized continuous model, and nuclear magnetic isotropic shieldings, the corresponding chemical shifts, and indirect spin–spin coupling constants were calculated. Several J‐couplings observed in proton and carbon NMR spectra, not available before, are reported. The obtained experimental spectra, supported by theoretical calculations, favor the zwitterion form of muscimol in water. This structure differs from NH isomer, previously determined in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) solution. In addition, positions of signals C3 and C5 are reversed in both solvents.
From hybrid fibers to microfibers: The characteristics of polyamide 6/polypropylene blend via one‐step twin‐screw melt extrusion
Authors: Kunchimon Siti Zaharah , Tausif Muhammad , Goswami Parikshit , Cheung Vien
Published: January 2020

Multimaterial textiles are frequently employed to attain a certain function or aesthetic effect. The multimaterial assemblies face recycling limitations due to challenges to sort and separate the component materials. A one‐step melt extrusion approach to process two mixed common textile polymers, polyamide 6 (PA6), and polypropylene (PP), into PA6:PP hybrid fibers is reported in this study. PA6:PP hybrid fibers were produced in four different configurations; PA6‐50 (50 wt% PA6), PA6‐60 (60 wt% PA6), PA6‐65 (65 wt% PA6), and PA6‐80 (80 wt% PA6). The PP component was sacrificially removed from the hybrid fibers and the resultant PA6 fiber structure was analyzed. The SEM images show the development of PA6 microfibers in PA6‐50 and PA6‐60 hybrid fibers with mean diameters of 0.76 μm and 1.13 μm upon fiber drawing, respectively. In PA6‐65 hybrid fibers, the PA6 microfibers were found along with areas where PA6 was encapsulating the PP. Thermal and mechanical properties of the untreated and treated hybrid fibers were also investigated. PA6‐60 hybrid fibers were processed into single jersey knitted fabrics and treated to obtain PA6 microfibers fabrics. The bursting strength and wicking properties of the fabric, before and after treatment, were comparatively studied. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 60:690–699, 2020. © 2020 Society of Plastics Engineers
In situ Polymerization of Polyamide 6/Boron Nitride Composites to Enhance Thermal Conductivity and Mechanical Properties via Boron Nitride Covalently Grafted Polyamide 6
Authors: Fang Hui , Li Denghui , Wu Fangjuan , Peng Xiangfang , Chen Anlin , Zhang Lingjie , Chen Sheng
Published: January 2020

Polyamide 6/boron nitride (PA6/BN) composites were synthesized via anionic ring‐opening polymerization using ε‐caprolactam as the monomer and functional boron nitride (f‐BN) as the thermal conductive filler. Besides the homopolymerized PA6, some PA6 molecule chains would grow from the f‐BN sheets through the “grafting from” strategy. Compared with unfunctional hexagonal BN (h‐BN), the introduction of f‐BN not only improved the dispersion of f‐BN in the matrix but also enhanced the interface bonding between f‐BN and PA6. The homogeneous dispersion of f‐BN in the PA6/f‐BN composite favored the formation of the continuous thermal conductive paths or network at a low f‐BN loading, and the good interface bonding reduced the phonon scattering in the interface, which improved the thermal conductivity (TC) of the PA6/f‐BN composite by 66.0% compared with that of the pure PA6, when only 5 wt% f‐BN was added. In contrast, with the same content of unfunctional h‐BN loading, the TC of the corresponding composite merely improved by 29.7%. Moreover, Young's modulus and yield strength of PA6/f‐BN composites had increased obviously with the introduction of f‐BN, whereas those of PA6/h‐BN composites showed small fluctuation with the same contents of BN. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 60:710–716, 2020. © 2020 Society of Plastics Engineers
Synthesis and Characterization of New Phosphorus Containing Sulfonated Polytriazoles for Proton Exchange Membrane Application
Authors: Ghorai Arijit , Mandal Arun Kumar , Banerjee Susanta
Published: January 2020

Sulfonated polytriazoles have drawn a great attention as high performance polymers and their good film forming ability. In the present study, a phosphorus containing new diazide monomer namely, bis‐[4‐(4′‐aminophenoxy)phenyl]phenylphosphine was synthesized and accordingly, a series of phosphorus containing sulfonated polytriazoles (PTPBSH‐XX) was synthesized by reacting equimolar amount of this diazide monomer (PAZ) in combination with another sulfonated diazide monomer (DSAZ) and a terminal bis‐alkyne (BPALK) by the Cu (I) catalyzed azide–alkyne click polymerization. The polymers were characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance (1H, 13C, 31P NMR) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic techniques. The sulfonic acid content of the copolymers also determined from the different integral values obtained from the 1H NMR signals. The small‐angle X‐ray scattering results unfolded the well‐separated dispersion of the hydrophilic and hydrophobic domains of the polymers. As a whole, the copolymer membranes displayed sufficient thermal, mechanical, and oxidative stabilities high with high proton conductivity and low water uptake that are essential for proton exchange membrane applications. The copolymers exhibited oxidative stability in the range of 15–24 h and had proton conductivity values were found as high as 38–110 mS cm−1 at 80 °C in completely hydrated condition. Among the all copolytriazoles, PTPBSH‐90 (BPALK:DSAZ:PAZ = 100:90:10) having IECW = 2.44 mequiv g−1, showed proton conductivity as high as 119 mS cm−1 at 90 °C with an activation energy of 10.40 kJ mol−1 for the proton conduction. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci. 2020, 58, 263–279
Aerobic capacity is associated with disease activity and cardiovascular risk factors in early rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Ångström Lars , Hörnberg Kristina , Sundström Björn , Jonsson Solveig Wållberg , Södergren Anna
Published: January 2020

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate aerobic capacity and its associations with disease activity and risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD) in early rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included 67 patients with early RA. Aerobic capacity was estimated with the Åstrand submaximal test adjusted according to the Nord‐Tröndelag Health Study formula. The following were also assessed: subclinical atherosclerosis by carotid intima‐media thickness and pulse wave analysis; body composition by dual X‐ray absorptiometry; estimated CVD mortality risk by the Systematic Coronary Risk Evaluation; disease activity by the Disease Activity Score 28, C‐reactive protein and erythrocyte sedimentation rate; blood lipids by total cholesterol, low‐density lipoproteins, high‐density lipoproteins, and triglycerides; and functional ability by the Stanford health assessment questionnaire. Univariate and multiple linear regression analyses were performed to explore the associations between variables.

Results

The mean (SD) aerobic capacity was 31.6 (8.7) ml O2−1 kg min−1. Disease activity and risk factors for CVD were more favourable for patients with aerobic capacity above the median value. Aerobic capacity was associated with ESR and several CVD risk factors, independent of age and sex. In a multiple regression model that was adjusted for age and sex, aerobic capacity was significantly associated with per cent body fat (β = −0.502, 95% CI [−0.671, −0.333]) and triglycerides (β = −2.365, 95% CI [−4.252, −0.479]).

Conclusions

Disease activity and risk factors for CVD were in favour for patients with a higher aerobic capacity. Aerobic capacity was associated with disease activity and several risk factors for CVD, independent of age and sex. In RA, these findings may provide insights into the benefits of using aerobic capacity as a marker to prevent CVD.
Trap or opportunity—What role does geography play in the use of cash for childcare?
Authors: Magnusson Turner Lena , Östh John
Published: January 2020

After a heated debate, the Norwegian parliament voted for the introduction of Cash‐for‐Care (CFC) in 1997, a programme designed to give parents more opportunities to plan childcare. The pro‐CFC faction claimed that the reform would give parents more time with their children, whereas CFC opponents pointed to the increased risks of creating gender traps and discouraging women from returning to work. Earlier studies have suggested that the socio‐economic dimensions are important for understanding the use of CFC. However, the role of geography in the implementation of CFC has not been studied, though it is well‐known that the residential context is important to understand how parents choose to organize childcare. Our study is designed to examine the use of CFC in order to determine how much can be attributed to socio‐economic factors and how much can be attributed to geography. We focus on mothers who gave birth to their first child in 2009 and follow their life course through 2011. We use a unique and comprehensive longitudinal data set with annual economic, demographic, and geographical information that includes all mothers residing in Norway during the study period. We find that the use of CFC is strongly correlated with several socio‐economic variables and that there are also strong geographical factors, local and regional, affecting the choice to use CFC.
The Degree‐of‐Order Dependent Electronic Structures and Magnetic Properties of Fe3Si Alloys
Authors: Xie Jing , Liao Yang-Fang , Wu Dong-Ni , Xiao Wen-Jun , Xie Quan
Published: January 2020

The effect of ordering degree on the electronic structures and magnetism of Fe3Si alloys are investigated scientifically using first‐principles calculations based on plane‐wave pseudopotential theory. The studied results of the heat of formation and cohesive energy for D03 and B2 structures of Fe3Si reveal that the order of structural stability from high to low is B2‐9, B2‐8, B2‐7, B2‐6, D03/B2‐1, B2‐2, B2‐3, B2‐4, and B2‐5. Both D03 and B2 structures of Fe3Si exhibit the metallic feature. A wider breadth of the pseudogap with occupation of Si sites by more Fe[B] atoms except B2‐5 implies that the hybridization and covalent bond are intensified. Meanwhile, with substitution of Fe[B] atoms by more Si atoms, the stability of the system improves because the Fermi level is nearer to the bottom of the pseudogap. The origin of ferromagnetism for ordered Fe3Si except B2‐9 is mainly from the Fe 3d spin polarization. Compared with D03 structure of Fe3Si, an increment in the concentration of Fe atoms with occupation of Si sites by more Fe[B] atoms causes the change of interaction between Fe and Si atoms and the total magnetic moment increases. On the contrary, the total magnetic moment decreases with gradual substitution of Fe[B] atoms by Si atoms.
Steel column stability and implications in the seismic assessment of steel structures according to Eurocode 8 Part 3
Authors: Lignos Dimitrios G. , Hartloper Alexander R.
Published: January 2020

Seismic performance assessment of new and existing steel structures based on nonlinear static (pushover) analysis necessitates the use of engineering‐oriented models that trace the nonlinear response of structural steel elements under static and cyclic loading. Recent experiments and corroborating finite element simulations on I‐ and H‐shaped steel columns constitute an important data source for such a development. This paper presents important insights regarding the behaviour of steel columns under cyclic and monotonic loading based on an assembled steel column database. We propose simple, yet accurate, practice‐oriented models to predict the strength and deformation capacities at yield and ultimate rotation (near collapse) of steel columns within the framework of Eurocode 8 Part 3 (EC8‐Part 3). The proposed models are derived from first principles of mechanics along with robust statistical approaches leveraging the assembled datasets. It is shown that modelling provisions for steel columns in the current EC8 Part 3 do not reflect column behavioural trends from the available databases. The influence of loading history on the derived modelling recommendations for columns is also quantified and discussed. The proposed recommendations may be incorporated in future versions of EC8‐Part 3 for seismic performance assessment of new and existing steel structures.
Investigation on the Explosion and Combustion of Various Carbon–Starch Blended Dust
Authors: Wang YaChao , Tang Gongfan , Zhao JiangPing , Han Yujiu
Published: January 2020

The effect of different carbon allotropes on the explosion and combustion of potato‐starch dust is preliminarily investigated by modified Hartmann tube and cone calorimeter (CC), using expandable graphite (EG), naturally flaky graphite, vermicular graphite, and carbon black as the dust suppressants, respectively. The results show that the maximum explosion pressure (Pmax) decreases from 0.66 to 0.39 MPa and the peak heat release rate reduces from 31.45 to13.64 kW·m−2 for the EG‐starch blended dust, due to the physically shielding effect of the fluffy and charring layer. It clarifies that the combustion of starch is mainly governed by Zhuralev–Lesokin–Tempelman 3D diffusion calculated by the modified Coats–Redfern integral method; the carbonaceous materials block the pyrolysis and migration of volatiles, leading to a decrease in DTGmax. It establishes a comprehensive method to evaluate the explosion and combustion of organic combustible dust, combining the CC with combustion kinetics effectively.
Effects of Controlled Far‐Infrared Treatment on Granular Swelling and Rheological Properties of Crop Starches
Authors: Guo Baozhong , Wu Jianyong , Hu Xiuting , Luo Shunjing , Wang Haoqiang , Xu Shunqian , Huang Zhaohua , Liu Chengmei
Published: January 2020

Rheological properties of starch‐based foods influence their processability, mouthfeel, and shelf life and are considered to be primarily related to granular swelling of starches. In this work, four major crop starches (rice, maize, wheat, and potato) are treated by controlled far‐infrared ray (FIR) treatment to investigate the changes and correlations of swelling and rheological properties. The granular swelling of all starches is obviously decreased by FIR treatment. However, the changes in rheological properties by FIR treatment depend on sources of starches. FIR decreases the critical strain, flow point, and K value of rice and wheat starch gels, but increases those of potato starch gel. Moreover, the KG′ and in‐shear structural recovery of potato starch gel are decreased by FIR, while those of rice and wheat starch gels are increased. Therefore, the rheological properties of crop starches are not determined by granular swelling. Nevertheless, the FIR still can be an effective physical treatment for starch modification.
Robustness assessment of planar steel frames caused by failure of a side column under localized fire
Authors: Jiang Binhui , Wang Mengjie , Shen Yongjiang , Li Yaozhuang
Published: January 2020

Progressive collapse of a building structure under fire is a disaster that may cause heavy casualties and serious economic loss. However, there is a lack of codified method to assess fire‐induced progressive collapse of building structures. A global–local analysis method (GLAM) has recently been proposed by the authors and their colleagues to assess progressive collapse of steel buildings under localized fire, and its application on fire scenarios that causes one inner column to fail has been verified. This paper extends the application of GLAM to fire scenarios that causes a side column to fail in a planar steel frame. The predictions of the GLAM were validated against the results obtained from nonlinear dynamic analysis of the whole frame model. Besides, effects of location of the heated column at different storeys and load level of the frame were also studied. The results show that GLAM gives the same collapse predictions to the case studies with detailed nonlinear dynamic analysis. The differences between the critical load obtained from GLAM and that provided by the nonlinear dynamic analysis is within 7%. Therefore, GLAM has good applicability on robustness assessment of planar steel frames caused by failure of a side column under localized fire.
Recovery of T‐cell function in healthy dogs following cessation of oral cyclosporine administration
Authors: Narayanan Lakshmi , Mulligan Charlee , Durso Lisa , Thames Brittany , Thomason John , Fellman Claire , Mackin Andrew , Wills Robert , Archer Todd
Published: January 2020

Cyclosporine is a potent immunosuppressive agent used to treat immune‐mediated disorders in dogs. Secondary infections sometimes necessitate withdrawal of cyclosporine, but it is not known how long it takes for the immune system to recover after cessation of cyclosporine. Our goal was to utilize a validated RT‐qPCR assay in dogs to assess recovery time of the T‐cell cytokines IL‐2 and IFN‐γ after discontinuation of cyclosporine. Six healthy dogs were given oral cyclosporine (10 mg/kg every 12 hr) for 1 week, with samples collected for measurement of cytokine gene expression prior to treatment, and on the last day of therapy. Cyclosporine was then discontinued, and samples were collected daily for an additional 7 days. Results revealed that there was a significant difference in cytokine expression when comparing pre‐treatment and immediate post‐treatment values, corresponding to marked suppression of T‐cell function. There was no significant difference between pre‐treatment values for either cytokine when compared with any day during the recovery period. Cytokine expression, evaluated as a percentage of pre‐treatment baseline samples, demonstrated progressing return of T‐cell function after drug cessation, with full recovery seen in all dogs by Day 4 of the recovery period.
Automated classification of simulated wind field patterns from multiphysics ensemble forecasts
Authors: Durán Pablo , Basu Sukanta , Meißner Cathérine , Adaramola Muyiwa S.
Published: January 2020

In this study, we have proposed an automated classification approach to identify meaningful patterns in wind field data. Utilizing an extensive simulated wind database, we have demonstrated that the proposed approach can identify low‐level jets, near‐uniform profiles, and other patterns in a reliable manner. We have studied the dependence of these wind profile patterns on locations (eg, offshore vs onshore), seasons, and diurnal cycles. Furthermore, we have found that the probability distributions of some of the patterns depend on the underlying planetary boundary layer schemes in a significant way. The future potential of the proposed approach in wind resource assessment and, more generally, in mesoscale model parameterization improvement is touched upon in this paper.
About the Reaction of C(PPh3)2 with [M(CO)6] (M = Cr, Mo): Unusual Formation of μ‐Carbonato Complexes of Mo under Participation of THF
Authors: Petz Wolfgang , Neumüller Bernhard , Heitbaum Maya , Weller Frank
Published: January 2020

Attempts to synthesize complexes of group 6 carbonyl compounds [M(CO)6] (M = Cr, Mo, W) with the carbone C(PPh3)2 (1) via the photo chemically created adducts [(CO)5M(THF)] lead to quantitative formation of the salts [HC(PPh3)2]2[M2(CO)10] (2, Cr; 3, Mo; 4, W). Alternatively, a long‐time thermal reaction of [Mo(CO)6] performed with 1 in THF generates a series of products initiated by a Wittig‐type reaction. In addition to 3, minor amounts of [(CO)5MoCCPPh3] (8), [(CO)5MoO2CC{PPh3}2] (5), and the carbonate complexes [HC(PPh3)2]2[(CO)5Mo(CO3)Mo(CO)4] (6) and [HC(PPh3)2]2[(CO)4Mo(CO3)Mo(CO)4] (7) were found. Compounds 2, 3, 5, 6, and 7 were characterized by X‐ray analyses, 31P NMR, and IR spectroscopy. The water, necessary for the formation of the carbonate, stems from decomposition of THF.
Correction to: Engaging Practitioners as Inquirers: Co-constructing Visions for Music Teacher Education in Nepal
Authors: Treacy Danielle Shannon
Published: January 2020

An earlier version of the book has been published with incorrect citation for the quotation “An organized field of social practices, a form of work…” as (Appadurai 2006, 31) on page 198. The citation has now been corrected as follows:
Maschinelles Lernen in der Radiologie
Authors: Langs Georg , Attenberger Ulrike , Licandro Roxane , Hofmanninger Johannes , Perkonigg Matthias , Zusag Mario , Röhrich Sebastian , Sobotka Daniel , Prosch Helmut
Published: January 2020

Methodisches Problem

Maschinelles Lernen (ML) nimmt zunehmend Einzug in die Radiologie, um Aufgaben wie die automatische Detektion und Segmentation von diagnoserelevanten Bildmerkmalen, die Charakterisierung von Krankheits- und Behandlungsverläufen sowie Vorhersagen für individuelle Patienten durchzuführen.

Radiologische Standardverfahren

Die Anwendung von ML-Algorithmen ist für alle radiologischen Verfahren von der Computertomographie (CT), über die Magnetresonanztomographie (MRT) bis zum Ultraschall relevant. Verschiedene Modalitäten führen zu unterschiedlichen Herausforderungen bezüglich Standardisierung und Variabilität.

Methodische Innovationen

ML-Algorithmen sind zunehmend in der Lage, auch longitudinale Beobachtungen zu verarbeiten und für das Training von Vorhersagemodellen zu nutzen. Diese Entwicklung erlaubt es, umfassende Informationen für die Vorhersage individueller Verläufe heranzuziehen.

Leistungsfähigkeit

Die Qualität der Detektion und Segmentation von Läsionen hat in vielen Bereichen ein akzeptables Niveau erreicht, die Genauigkeit von Vorhersagemodellen muss diese aber erst erreichen, was u. a. auch mit der Verfügbarkeit repräsentativer Trainingsdaten zusammenhängt.

Bewertung

Die Entwicklung von ML-basierten Anwendungen in der Radiologie schreitet, trotz dass sich viele der Lösungen noch im Evaluationsstadium befinden, voran, und wird durch eine parallele Weiterentwicklung der grundlegenden Methoden und Techniken begleitet, die sukzessive in die Praxis übergehen werden.

Empfehlung für die Praxis

Maßgeblich für den effektiven Einsatz von ML in der Praxis sind die Validierung der Algorithmen und die Erstellung repräsentativer Datensätze, die sowohl für das Training als auch für die Validierung verwendet werden können.
Optimizing schedules for the VLBI global observing system
Authors: Schartner Matthias , Böhm Johannes
Published: January 2020

Very long baseline interferometry (VLBI) scheduling is a challenging optimization problem. With the development of the new VLBI global observing system (VGOS) consisting of smaller but very fast slewing antennas, new opportunities arise. In this work, we give a deep insight into optimized VGOS scheduling using a newly developed VLBI scheduling software called VieSched, and we show how different scheduling parameters and approaches affect the precision of geodetic results. Therefore, the results of over one thousand generated schedules and over one million simulated sessions are analyzed. The simulations reveal that the most important parameters to optimize VGOS schedules with VieSched are the so-called weight factors. A proper selection of individually optimized weight factors can improve the quality of a schedule significantly. It is shown that the values of the weight factors used to generate the schedule are highly correlated with the expected precision of the geodetic parameters. We highlight the benefit of selecting schedules based on large-scale Monte Carlo simulations and show why scheduling statistics like the number of observations or the sky-coverage are not necessarily the best metric to evaluate schedules.