bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A functional perspective for breeding and wintering waterbird communities: temporal trends in species and trait diversity
Authors: de Arruda Almeida Bia , Sebastián‐González Esther , dos Anjos Luiz , Green Andy J. , Botella Francisco
Published: February 2019

Waterbird communities are prone to strong temporal changes both seasonally and annually, but little is known about how this affects their functional diversity and community assembly. Detecting temporal trends in taxonomic and functional diversity within (alpha diversity) and between (beta diversity) communities in breeding and wintering seasons could give insight into the ecological processes driving those trends. In this study, we investigated trends in wintering and breeding waterbirds within and between eleven wetlands in Mediterranean Spain, using a 28‐year time‐series up to 2017. We assessed the temporal trends in taxonomic and functional diversity measures, and compared observed functional diversity values with null expectations, in order to explore the mechanisms driving community assembly. We found increases over time in species richness and in the occupied functional space for both wintering and breeding communities, indicating that species with distinct functional roles were added in both seasons. However, the distribution of the abundances in the functional space was different for breeding and wintering communities. Dissimilarity of species and functional traits decreased among wetlands, suggesting that some of the same functional traits were added to the different wetlands, increasing regional homogenization through time. This is reflected in increases over time in mean body mass, diet plasticity and in the importance of fish in waterbird diets, plus declines in the dietary importance of invertebrates and in plasticity of feeding strata. Furthermore, species composition between wintering and breeding communities, but not trait composition, has become more similar through time. Our results highlight that annual changes, and especially seasonal changes, in the composition of waterbird communities have different effects on their functional diversity, and are influenced by opposing community assembly mechanisms.
Somatic distance, trust and trade
Authors: Melitz Jacques , Toubal Farid
Published: February 2019

Somatic distance, or differences in physical appearance, proves to be extremely important in the gravity model of bilateral trade in conformity with results in other areas of economics and outside in the social sciences. This is also true independently of survey evidence about bilateral trust. These findings are obtained in a sample of the 15 members of the European Economic Area in 1996. Robustness tests also show that somatic distance, as well as co‐ancestry, has a more reliable influence on bilateral trade than the other customary cultural variables. The article finally discusses the interpretation and breadth of application of these results.
Health Effects of Sanitation Facilities: A Bayesian Semiparametric Analysis of Compositional Data
Authors: Watson Samuel I. , Sartori Jo , Uthman Olalekan , Lilford Richard J.
Published: February 2019

Diarrhoeal disease is one of the leading causes of illness and death in young children: a problem exacerbated by a lack of access to safe sanitation facilities. But the effects of different types of sanitation facilities, and the relationship between their levels of coverage in an area and disease risk, remain uncertain. We specify a hierarchical model that enables us to estimate the disease risk response surface across the multi-dimensional space of the composition of sanitation facilities in an area. This permits a non-linear relationship between coverage of improved sanitation, differential effects by sanitation type and unobserved differences between countries. The model is used to estimate the change in risk associated with different types of sanitation facility, from which it is estimated that only increases in the coverage of sewerage and private improved sanitation facilities will achieve clinically meaningful reductions in the risk of adverse outcomes.
Tax Competition and the Distribution of Income*
Authors: Traub Stefan , Yang Hongyan
Published: February 2019

In this paper, we provide a two‐country, two‐class model of asymmetric capital tax competition. We show formally that poor people living in small countries can benefit from capital tax competition and therefore they are in favor of it. In order to benefit from capital inflow from larger countries, poor people in smaller countries accept less within‐country income redistribution. As a consequence, between‐country income inequality is increased by tax competition.
A social learning video method: Identifying and sharing successful transformation knowledge for sustainable soil management in Switzerland
Authors: Fry Patricia , Thieme Susan
Published: February 2019

To enhance sustainable land use, aFrom Farmer to Farmerproject was conducted in Switzerland (2001–2010). A multi‐stakeholder discussion group co‐produced nine videos with experienced farmers and wine producers showing sustainable soil management practices. We analysed the video audio‐visual content and drew on reflections of the co‐production process, referring to concepts of system, target and transformation knowledge, as well as on social learning. The analysis showed a broad range of means (or actions) for sustainable soil management in arable land management, fodder production and wine growing that are aligned to transformation knowledge. The research showed that farmers refer to three phases of social learning, light‐bulb moments, coping with challenges and gaining successful expertise. These are not just linear processes of individuals. Four types of social learning were found in the video analysis: (a) learning from observing actions of others, (b) sharing experiences with storytelling, (c) informal social interactions and (d) being a role model with a large social network. Videos enable transformation knowledge to be shared with peers using storytelling; this powerful narrative communication style provides credibility and respects the ‘thought style’ of the target audience group. We conclude that for successful implementation of sustainable actions, it is important to address a specific target group and share their transformation knowledge built upon system and target knowledge. The social learning video method is a viable way to enable social learning between science, administration and practice and has potential for fostering change in sustainable soil management.
Female genitalia are moderately informative for phylogenetic inference and not concerted with male genitalia in Saprininae beetles (Coleoptera: Histeridae)
Authors: Lackner Tomáš , Tarasov Sergei
Published: February 2019

Our study – the first of its kind within Histeridae (Coleoptera) – deals with the female genitalia in the subfamily Saprininae, with respect to their variation and utility for phylogenetic reconstruction. Morphology of female genitalia (chiefly characters of the spermatheca, and variation of the gonocoxites, articulating sclerites and gonostyli) is herein described and depicted. We perform parsimony‐based morphological phylogenetic analyses of Saprininae using combined datasets that comprise somatic, male and female genitalia characters. We assess phylogenetic utility of female genital characters and test for their correlation with male genital characters. We found that female genitalia are generally moderately informative for phylogenetic reconstruction. The somatic and male genitalia characters (on average) possess higher phylogenetic signal; female genitalia provide better support and diagnoses for particular clades (emphasizing their importance for systematics), in which the evolution of female genitalia can be linked to environmental factors imposed by the mode of life. Regardless of the degree of informativeness, structures of female genitalia represent an additional interesting and important source of information for systematics and taxonomy. We did not find any evidence of correlated evolution between male and female genitalia.
Women's recommendations: vacuum extraction or caesarean section for prolonged second stage of labour, a prospective cohort study in Uganda
Authors: Nolens Barbara , van den Akker Thomas , Lule John , Twinomuhangi Sulphine , van Roosmalen Jos , Byamugisha Josaphat
Published: February 2019

Objectives

To investigate what women who have experienced vacuum extraction or second stage caesarean section (CS) would recommend as mode of birth in case of prolonged second stage of labour.

Methods

A prospective cohort study was conducted in a tertiary referral hospital in Uganda. Between November 2014 and July 2015, women with a term singleton in vertex presentation who had undergone vacuum extraction or second stage CS were included. The first day and 6 months after birth women were asked what they would recommend to a friend: vacuum extraction or CS and why. Outcome measures were: proportions of women choosing vacuum extraction vs. CS and reasons for choosing this mode of birth.

Results

The first day after birth, 293/318 (92.1%) women who had undergone vacuum extraction and 176/409 (43.0%) women who had undergone CS recommended vacuum extraction. Of women who had given birth by CS in a previous pregnancy and had vacuum extraction this time, 31/32 (96.9%) recommended vacuum extraction. Six months after birth findings were comparable. Less pain, shorter recovery period, avoiding surgery and the presumed relative safety of vacuum extraction to the mother were the main reasons for preferring vacuum extraction. Main reasons to opt for CS were having experienced CS without problems, CS presumed as being safer for the neonate, CS being the only option the woman was aware of, as well as the concern that vacuum extraction would fail.

Conclusions

Most women would recommend vacuum extraction over CS in case of prolonged second stage of labour.
Hematologic and serum biochemical reference intervals for wild eastern quolls (Dasyurus viverrinus): Variation by age, sex, and season
Authors: Fancourt Bronwyn A. , Nicol Stewart C.
Published: February 2019

Background

The eastern quoll (Dasyurus viverrinus) is an endangered carnivorous marsupial that has recently suffered significant population declines. Several small captive breeding populations have been established, with plans to translocate wild and captive individuals to areas of their former distribution. Accordingly, hematologic and serum biochemical reference intervals (RIs) established from wild eastern quoll populations are essential for monitoring the health and disease status of both captive and wild populations, and to evaluate the health of individuals before, during, and after translocation.

Objectives

We aimed to establish hematologic and serum biochemical RIs for wild eastern quolls, and examine the effects of age, sex, and season.

Methods

We collected a total of 202 hematologic samples, 309 packed cell volume samples, and 335 serum biochemical samples from 168 individual quolls between May 2011 and November 2013. Species‐level RIs were established, as well as RIs of groups separated by age (juvenile, adult) and sex (adult male, adult female) using nonparametric, robust, and parametric methods. Seasonal variation in age‐ and sex‐specific reference values was also assessed.

Results

Strong age and seasonal variation were evident in many hematologic and serum biochemical analytes, with significant variation observed in serum biochemical analytes between the sexes.

Conclusions

The observed age, sex, and seasonal variation reflect differences in the timing of growth and reproductive stressors, which interact with seasonal energetic demands. Our findings highlight the importance of using age‐, sex‐, and season‐specific RIs for clinical evaluation of eastern quolls, as species‐level RIs will inadvertently smooth and mask important seasonal fluctuations that reflect reproductive status at different times.
Comparison of charantin extract from Momordica Charantia using modified supercritical carbon dioxide and soxhlet extraction method
Authors: Zaini Ahmad Syahmi , Aris Noor Aiysah , Putra Nicky Rahmana , Abd Hashib Syafiza , Kamaruddin Mohd Johari , Idham Zuhaili , Che Yunus Mohd Azizi
Published: February 2019

Charantin extract from Momordica Charantia fruits for anti-diabetic compound was proposed via Supercritical Fluid Extraction using carbon dioxide (SC-CO2) as solvent. This method is a promising alternative technique to a conventional Soxhlet and shaking water bath extraction method. Experiments were conducted to analyze the charantin i) with and without modifier (ethanol), ii) Soxhlet extraction with four types of solvent (distilled water, ethanol, dichloromethane, and petroleum ether) and iii) shaking water bath with distilled water as a solvent. A purification step was conducted post extraction to remove intrusive components such as chlorophylls and sugar from analyte in order to quantify charantin extract using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The results show that, in 2.5 hours SC-CO2 with ethanol as modifier gives highest charantin yield with 0.7817 mg charantin per gram sample. In contrast, shaking water bath gives the highest charantin yield for conventional method with 0.712 mg charantin per gram sample during 6 hours of extraction. The result shows that by using SC-CO2 modified with ethanol can be a promising “green” extraction than conventional method.
Photocatalytic study for indium tantalum oxide thin film in visible light
Authors: Li Chuan , Hsieh Joe Jang-Hsin , Hsueh Po Hui
Published: February 2019

Indium tantalum oxide thin film was deposited by sputtering using three different designs: 5–7 and 10–14 nm alternative layers of Ta2O5 and In2O3 and co-sputtering of In2O3 and Ta2O5. Then, as-deposited films were rapidly annealed at different temperatures to assess the thermal effects on microstructures and photocatalytic functions. Results from XRD and energy-dispersive x-ray spectrometer indicate that crystalline InTaO4 emerges in 5–7 and 10–14 nm stacks of films but absent in the co-sputtered films. Since crystalline InTaO4 is capable of photocatalysis under both ultraviolet and visible light, the authors particularly tested the annealed films in water to degrade methylene blue under visible light. The photo-induced degradation on methylene blue by 5–7 and 10–14 nm stacks can reach 45% after 6-h continuous exposure. Using UV-Visible-Near Infrared spectroscopy, the authors can estimate the optical bandgaps in these annealed films and from these estimations, a mechanism for the photocatalysis is discussed. This mechanism is similar to the other electron-hole separation and transfer across the heterogeneous junctions in semiconductors.
Coda-wave monitoring of continuously evolving material properties and the precursory detection of yielding
Authors: Zotz-Wilson Reuben , Boerrigter Thijs , Barnhoorn Auke
Published: February 2019

The nominally incoherent coda of a scattered wavefield has been shown to be a remarkably sensitive quantitive monitoring tool. Its success is, however, often limited to applications where only moderate or localised changes in the scattering properties of the medium can be assumed. However, the compressional deformation of a relatively homogeneous rock matrix towards failure represents for a monitoring wavefield pronounced changes in both velocity and scattering power often due to a distribution of inelastic changes. A rolling reference wavefield is implemented when applying coda-wave interferometry (CWI) and coda-wave decorrelation (CWD), allowing relative velocity and material scattering power monitoring for such applications. It is demonstrated how this modification enables the qualitative monitoring of stages in material deformation common to unconfined compressive strength tests. In addition, the precursory/subtle onset of material yielding is identifiable in both the CWI and CWD methods, which was not possible when comparing to a fixed reference wavefield. It is, therefore, expected that this approach will enable these coda-based methods to robustly monitor continuous, destructive processes at a variety of scales. Possible applications include critical infrastructure, landslide, and reservoir compaction monitoring where both the subtle continuous and sudden large changes in a material's scattering properties occur.
Comparison of the Antiviral Activity of Bictegravir against HIV-1 and HIV-2 Isolates and Integrase Inhibitor-Resistant HIV-2 Mutants
Authors: Smith Robert A. , Raugi Dana N. , Wu Vincent H. , Zavala Christopher G. , Song Jennifer , Diallo Khardiata Mbaye , Seydi Moussa , Gottlieb Geoffrey S. ,   on behalf of the University of Washington-Dakar HIV-2 Study Group, Sall Fatima , Mouhamadou Baïla Diallo , Faye Khadim , Cisse Samba , Pierre Sy Marie , Diaw Binetou , Ndiaye Ousseynou , Faye Babacar , Diop Ndeye Astou , Diop Amadou Bale , Diome Marianne Fadam , Malomar Jean Jacques , Sall ElHadji Ibrahima , Cisse Ousseynou , Tamba Ibrahima Tito , Faye Dominique , Diatta Jean Philippe , Bakhoum Raphael , Jacques Francois Sambou , Juliette Gomis , Dieye Therese , Hawes Stephen , Benzekri Noelle , Lin John , Nixon Robbie , Burhen Pallas , Chang Ming , Coombs Robert , Mullins James , Sow Papa Salif , Kiviat Nancy
Published: February 2019

We compared the activity of the integrase inhibitor bictegravir against HIV-1 and HIV-2 using a culture-based, single-cycle assay. Values of 50% effective concentrations ranged from 1.2 to 2.5 nM for 9 HIV-1 isolates and 1.4 to 5.6 nM for 15 HIV-2 isolates.
Resistance and Virulence Mechanisms of
Escherichia coli
Selected by Enrofloxacin in Chicken
Authors: Li Jun , Hao Haihong , Dai Menghong , Zhang Heying , Ning Jianan , Cheng Guyue , Shabbir Muhammad Abu Bakr , Sajid Abdul , Yuan Zonghui
Published: February 2019

This study aimed to investigate the genetic characteristics, antibiotic resistance patterns, and novel mechanisms involved in fluoroquinolone (FQ) resistance in commensal
Escherichia coli
isolates. The
E. coli
isolates were recovered from a previous clinical study and subjected to antimicrobial susceptibility testing and molecular typing.
Molecular Characterization of Multidrug-Resistant
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Isolates in Hospitals in Myanmar
Authors: Tada Tatsuya , Hishinuma Tomomi , Watanabe Shin , Uchida Hiroki , Tohya Mari , Kuwahara-Arai Kyoko , Mya San , Zan Khin Nyein , Kirikae Teruo , Tin Htay Htay
Published: February 2019

The emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR)
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
has become a serious worldwide medical problem. This study was designed to clarify the genetic and epidemiological properties of MDR
P. aeruginosa
strains isolated from hospitals in Myanmar.
Fluoroquinolone Efficacy against Tuberculosis Is Driven by Penetration into Lesions and Activity against Resident Bacterial Populations
Authors: Sarathy Jansy , Blanc Landry , Alvarez-Cabrera Nadine , O’Brien Paul , Dias-Freedman Isabela , Mina Marizel , Zimmerman Matthew , Kaya Firat , Ho Liang Hsin-Pin , Prideaux Brendan , Dietzold Jillian , Salgame Padmini , Savic Radojka M. , Linderman Jennifer , Kirschner Denise , Pienaar Elsje , Dartois Véronique
Published: February 2019

Fluoroquinolones represent the pillar of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) treatment, with moxifloxacin, levofloxacin, or gatifloxacin being prescribed to MDR-TB patients. Recently, several clinical trials of “universal” drug regimens, aiming to treat drug-susceptible and drug-resistant TB, have included a fluoroquinolone.
HIV-1 Escape from Small-Molecule Antagonism of Vif
Authors: Sharkey Mark , Sharova Natalia , Mohammed Idrees , Huff Sarah E. , Kummetha Indrasena Reddy , Singh Gatikrushna , Rana Tariq M. , Stevenson Mario
Published: February 2019

Although antiretroviral therapy can suppress HIV-1 replication effectively, virus reservoirs persist in infected individuals and virus replication rapidly rebounds if therapy is interrupted. Currently, there is a need for therapeutic approaches that eliminate, reduce, or control persistent viral reservoirs if a cure is to be realized. This work focuses on the preclinical development of novel, small-molecule inhibitors of the HIV-1 Vif protein. Vif inhibitors represent a new class of antiretroviral drugs that may expand treatment options to more effectively suppress virus replication or to drive HIV-1 reservoirs to a nonfunctional state by harnessing the activity of the DNA-editing cytidine deaminase A3G, a potent, intrinsic restriction factor expressed in macrophage and CD4
+
T cells. In this study, we derived inhibitor escape variants to characterize the mechanism by which these novel agents inhibit virus replication and to provide evidence for target validation.
Checks and Balances in Bacterial Cell Division
Authors: den Blaauwen Tanneke , Luirink Joen
Published: February 2019

Assembly of the division machinery in Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria occurs in two time-dependent steps. First, the FtsZ proto-ring localizes at midcell including some FtsN molecules.
Minor Isozymes Tailor Yeast Metabolism to Carbon Availability
Authors: Bradley Patrick H. , Gibney Patrick A. , Botstein David , Troyanskaya Olga G. , Rabinowitz Joshua D.
Published: February 2019

Gene duplication is one of the main evolutionary paths to new protein function. Typically, duplicated genes either accumulate mutations and degrade into pseudogenes or are retained and diverge in function. Some duplicated genes, however, show long-term persistence without apparently acquiring new function. An important class of isozymes consists of those that catalyze the same reaction in the same compartment, where knockout of one isozyme causes no known functional defect. Here we present an approach to assigning specific functional roles to seemingly redundant isozymes. First, gene expression data are analyzed computationally to identify conditions under which isozyme expression diverges. Then, knockouts are compared under those conditions. This approach revealed that the expression of many yeast isozymes diverges in response to carbon availability and that carbon source manipulations can induce fitness phenotypes for seemingly redundant isozymes. A driver of these fitness phenotypes is differential allosteric enzyme regulation, indicating isozyme divergence to achieve more-optimal control of metabolism.
What factors promote or inhibit implementation of a new procedure for screening and treatment of malnutrition in community settings? A prospective process evaluation of theImplementing Nutrition Screening in Community Care for Older People(INSCCOPe) project (UK)
Authors: Bracher Mike , Murphy Jane , Steward Katherine , Wallis Kathy , May Carl R
Published: February 2019

Introduction

Malnutrition remains underdetected, undertreated and often overlooked by those working with older people in primary care in the UK. A new procedure for screening and treatment of malnutrition is currently being implemented by a large National Health Service (NHS) trust in England, incorporating a programme of training for staff working within Integrated Community Teams and Older People’s Mental Health teams. Running in parallel, the Implementing Nutrition Screening in Community Care for Older People process evaluation study explores factors that may promote or inhibit its implementation and longer term embedding in routine care, with the aim of optimising sustainability and scalability.

Methods and analysis

Implementation will be assessed through observation of staff within a single area of the trust, in addition to the procedure development and delivery group (PDDG). Data collection will occur at three observation points: prior to implementation of training, baseline (T0); 2 months following training (T1); and 8 months following training (T2). Observation points will consist of a survey and follow-up semistructured telephone interview with staff. Investigation of the PDDG will involve: observations of discussions around development of the procedure; semistructured telephone interviews prior to implementation, and at 6 months following implementation. Quantitative data will be described using frequency tables reporting by team type, healthcare provider role group, and total study sample (Wilcoxon rank-sum and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests may also be conducted if appropriate. Audio and transcription data will be analysed using Nomarlization Process Theory as a framework for deductive thematic analysis (using the NVIVO CAQDAS software package).

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval for the study has been granted through institutional ethical review (Bournemouth University); NHS Research Ethics committee approval was not required. Dissemination will occur through presentations to academic and practitioner audiences and publication results in peer-reviewed academic journals.
Prospective cohort study examining cervical cancer screening methods in HIV-positive and HIV-negative Cambodian Women: a comparison of human papilloma virus testing, visualization with acetic acid and digital colposcopy
Authors: Thay Sovannara , Goldstein Andrew , Goldstein Lena Sophia , Govind Vaishnavi , Lim Kruy , Seang Chanthou
Published: February 2019

Objectives

Logistical and economic issues make traditional cytology-based cervical cancer screening challenging in developing countries. Alternative, cost-effective, screening strategies must be developed to screen millions of women in resource-poor countries such as Cambodia.

Design

A prospective cohort study during which all women underwent four cervical cancer screening methods: (1) self-sampled human papilloma virus (HPV) testing (careHPV system), (2) clinician-collected HPV testing, (3) visualization with acetic acid (VIA) and (4) digital colposcopy (DC) with the Enhanced Visual Assessment System (EVA).

Setting

A referral hospital in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

Participants

Two hundred and fifty Cambodian women (129 HIV+, 121 HIV-). Subjects were recruited from the National Center for HIV/AIDS Dermatology and sexually transmitted disease (STD) cohort, the Sihanouk Hospital Center of Hope’s Rural Outreach Teams and the Pochentong Medical Center.

Results

Fifty six of the 250 (22.4%) patients tested positive for high-risk HPV (hrHPV+). Thirty seven of the 129 HIV+ women were hrHPV+ (28.6%) whereas 19/121 HIV- women were hrHPV+ (15.7%) p=0.0154. Self-sampling HPV specimens identified 50/56 (89%) whereas physician-collected specimens identified 45/56 (80%) p=0.174. 95.2% of the patients felt comfortable obtaining HPV self-samples. Thirty seven of 250 women were VIA+. Thirty of 37 VIA+ women underwent confirmatory biopsies for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) (26 CIN1, 4 CIN2+). The rate of confirmed dysplasia in the HIV+ group was 20/129 (15.5%) compared with 10/121 (8.26%) in HIV- women p=0.0291. The contemporaneous physician impressions of the DC images accurately differentiated between CIN1 and CIN2+ lesions in all 30 women having confirmatory biopsies.

Conclusions

The results of this study suggest potential modifications of the current cervical screening strategy that is currently being employed in Cambodia. The first step in this new strategy would be self-swabbing for hrHPV. Subsequently, hrHPV+ patients would have DC and immediate treatment based on colposcopic findings: cryotherapy for suspected CIN1 and loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) for suspected CIN2+.
Performance of specific immunoglobulin E tests for diagnosing occupational asthma: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Lux Harald , Lenz Klaus , Budnik Lygia Therese , Baur Xaver
Published: February 2019

Objectives

To determine the test performance parameters for the retrievable range of high-molecular-weight (HMW) and low-molecular-weight (LMW) occupational allergens and to evaluate the impact of allergenic components and the implementation of measures for test validation.

Methods

A protocol with predefined objectives and inclusion criteria was the basis of an electronic literature search of MEDLINE and EMBASE (time period 1967–2016). The specific inhalation challenge and serial peak flow measurements were the reference standards for the specific IgE (sIgE) test parameters. All of the review procedures were reported according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses.

Results

Seventy-one studies were selected, and 62 entered meta-analysis. Pooled pairs analysis indicated a sensitivity of 0.74(95% CI 0.66 to 0.80) and specificity of 0.71(95% CI 0.63 to 0.77) for HMW allergens and a sensitivity of 0.28(95% CI 0.18 to 0.40) and specificity of 0.89(95% CI 0.77 to 0.95) for LMW allergens. Component-specific analysis improved the test parameters for some allergens. Test validation was handled heterogeneously among studies.

Conclusion

sIgE test performance is rather satisfactory for a wide range of HMW allergens with the potential for component-specific approaches, whereas sensitivity for LMW allergens is considerably lower, indicating methodological complications and/or divergent pathomechanisms. A common standard for test validation is needed.
Pesticide use and incident hyperthyroidism in farmers in the Agricultural Health Study
Authors: Shrestha Srishti , Parks Christine G , Goldner Whitney S , Kamel Freya , Umbach David M , Ward Mary H , Lerro Catherine C , Koutros Stella , Hofmann Jonathan N , Beane Freeman Laura E , Sandler Dale P
Published: February 2019

Background

Few studies have evaluated associations between pesticides and hyperthyroidism.

Objective

We evaluated associations between specific pesticides and incident hyperthyroidism in private pesticide applicators in the Agricultural Health Study.

Methods

We used Cox proportional hazards models to estimate HRs and 95% CIs for associations between pesticide use at enrolment and hyperthyroidism (n=271) in 35 150 applicators (mostly men), adjusting for potential confounders.

Results

Ever use of several pesticides (organophosphate insecticide malathion, fungicide maneb/mancozeb, herbicides dicamba, metolachlor, and atrazine in overall sample and chlorimuron ethyl among those ≤62 years) was associated with reduced hyperthyroidism risk, with HRs ranging from 0.50 (95% CI 0.30 to 0.83) for maneb/mancozeb to 0.77 (95% CI 0.59 to 1.00) for atrazine. Hyperthyroidism risk was lowest among those with higher intensity-weighted lifetime days of using carbofuran and chlorpyrifos (ptrend ≤0.05).

Conclusions

Observed associations between pesticides and decreased risk of hyperthyroidism warrant further investigation.
Differential expression of leaf proteome of tolerant and susceptible maize (Zea mays L.) genotypes in response to multiple abiotic stresses
Authors: Rafique Suphia
Published: February 2019

In the present work, tropical maize genotypes were evaluated for multiple stresses (drought × low-N and waterlogging × low-N) applied simultaneously to 30-day-old maize seedlings. Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis was used to examine the protein changes induced by combined stress, in leaves, of tolerant and susceptible genotypes. Moreover, physiological and biochemical parameters were assessed to understand the physiological status of tolerant and susceptible genotypes under combined stress. The results show that up-regulated proteins of the tolerant genotype have a significant role in activating defense response, restoration of plant growth, and to maintain metabolic homeostasis under stressful conditions. Therefore, they contribute to improve and maintain the state of acclimation of the genotype under stress. Alternatively in the susceptible genotype, the up-regulated proteins are representative biomarkers of stress or are involved in the defense against pathogens and efforts to maintain energy metabolism. Thus, protecting the survival of the genotype under multiple stress conditions. We conclude that depending on the given stress treatment, tolerant and susceptible genotypes differed in stress-enduring approaches. Therefore, the study provides insight to comprehend the response of tolerant and susceptible genotypes under combined stress conditions, which could be valuable for further research and will demonstrate that it is advantageous to select combined stress-tolerant genotypes.
Study of thermo-elastic and lattice dynamics properties of half-Heusler compounds XMgAl (X = Li, Na) by computational investigations
Authors: Afaq A. , Bakar Abu , Rizwan M. , Fareed M. Aftab , Munir H. Bushra , Asif Anila
Published: February 2019

In this study, thermo-elastic and lattice dynamic properties of XMgAl (X = Li, Na) half-Heusler compounds are investigated using density functional theory implemented in WIEN2k and Quantum ESPRESSO codes. Generalized gradient approximation (GGA) as an exchange correlation function has been used in Kohn–Sham equations. Firstly, the structure of these Heusler compounds is optimized and then these optimized parameters are used to find three elastic constants [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] for [Formula: see text] type structures. Three elastic constants are then used to determine different elastic moduli like bulk modulus, shear modulus, Young’s modulus and other mechanical parameters like Pugh’s ratio, Poisson’s ratio, anisotropic ratio, sound velocities, Debye temperature and melting temperature. On behalf of these mechanical parameters, the brittle/ductile nature and isotropic/anisotropic behavior of the materials has been studied. Different regions of vibrational modes in the materials are also discussed on behalf of Debye temperature calculations. The vibrational properties of the half-Heusler compounds are computed using Martins–Troullier pseudo potentials implemented in Quantum ESPRESSO. The phonon dispersion curves and phonon density of states in first Brillion zone are obtained and discussed. Reststrahlen band of LiMgAl is found greater than NaMgAl.
A multiscale view of nonlinear diffusion in biology: From cells to tissues
Authors: Burini D. , Chouhad N.
Published: February 2019

This paper presents a review on the mathematical tools for the derivation of macroscopic models in biology from the underlying description at the scale of cells as it is delivered by a kinetic theory model. The survey is followed by an overview of research perspectives. The derivation is inspired by the Hilbert’s method, known in classic kinetic theory, which is here applied to a broad class of kinetic equations modeling multicellular dynamics. The main difference between this class of equations with respect to the classical kinetic theory consists in the modeling of cell interactions which is developed by theoretical tools of stochastic game theory rather than by laws of classical mechanics. The survey is focused on the study of nonlinear diffusion and source terms.
The obstacle problem for quasilinear stochastic PDEs with Neumann boundary condition
Authors: Dong Yuchao , Yang Xue , Zhang Jing
Published: February 2019

We prove the existence and uniqueness of solution to obstacle problem for quasilinear stochastic partial differential equations with Neumann boundary condition. Our method is based on the analytical techniques coming from parabolic potential theory. The solution is expressed as a pair [Formula: see text] where [Formula: see text] is a predictable continuous process which takes values in a proper Sobolev space and [Formula: see text] is a random regular measure satisfying minimal Skohorod condition.
A transformation model based on dual-tree complex wavelet transform for non-rigid registration of 3D MRI images
Authors: Torbati Nima , Ayatollahi Ahmad
Published: February 2019

Image registration is regarded as an important component of medical procedures. The present study aimed to introduce a new transformation model based on dual-tree complex wavelet transform (DT-CWT). To this aim, parametric registration methods was revised based on the function expansion theory and the gradient descent algorithm was used to introduce a general formulation for transformation models based on spatio-spectral transforms. Then, the performance of the proposed method was evaluated on a public dataset of 3D real magnetic resonance images (MRI) and compared with the transformation model based on wavelets. Finally, the performance of the proposed method was compared with the current state-of-the-art methods (IRTK, SyN and SPM-DARTEL). Based on the experimental results, the proposed method could deliver superior registration performance compared with the previous methods.
Role of Social Media and Emotion in South Korea’s Presidential Impeachment Protests
Authors: MIN HEE , YUN SEONGYI
Published: February 2019

Previous studies have shown that social media is effective in large-scale mobilization, facilitating leaderless and more flexible forms of resistance. However, some scholars argue that this type of mobilization suffers from a lack of organizational form and collective identity. This paper shows that social media-centered networks can in fact promote collective actions powerful enough to challenge a corrupt president. We also prove the role of emotions in collective actions. Using an empirical analysis of the 2016 Presidential Impeachment Protests surrounding “Choi Soon-sil Gate,” we first demonstrate the effects of social media activities on participation in collective actions. Next, we explore the effects of anger on social media activities and participation. In short, this study reveals a new angle on social media’s influence in mobilizing collective actions by analyzing the effect of emotions on participation. In this process, social media activities are escalated by emotional outbreaks, and participation then increases throughout a given collective action.
Synthesis of Dye and Heat-Treated Halloysite Nanotube Hybrids and their Color Properties and Chemical Resistances
Authors: Wang Shi-Liang , Yao Yu-Feng , Chen Hao
Published: February 2019

A series of new organic–inorganic nanohybrids were successfully prepared by using Congo red and heat-treated halloysite clays. The results show that an increase in calcination temperature leads to the reduction of lightness ([Formula: see text]*) and color hue ([Formula: see text]*, [Formula: see text]*). The hybrids prepared, respectively, with 400∘C treated and 500∘C treated halloysites have the same order of HNO[Formula: see text] with respect to the acid resistance. The hybrid with a light red hue can be obtained by alkali treatment when halloysite calcined at higher temperature was used as a host. There exists a strong host–guest interaction between nanotubes and Congo red anions. The leaching of aluminum in the clay has a decisive influence on the acid/alkali resistance of the hybrid.
Frequency-dependent scaling behavior of polyvinylidene fluoride/metal composites
Authors: Panda Maheswar
Published: February 2019

The frequency-dependent percolation and scaling behavior of a variety of polymer/metal composites (PMC), based on polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) matrix and various types of fillers such as; metal/alloy particles of different sizes, prepared through cold/hot pressing process conditions have undergone investigation. The universal percolation behavior in the vicinity of percolation threshold ([Formula: see text]), i.e., [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] is well satisfied, which suggests [Formula: see text] to be independent of frequency, where [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are the effective ac conductivity and effective dielectric constants of the composite and [Formula: see text] is the frequency of applied ac signal. The obtained experimental values of the exponents are consistent with the inter-cluster polarization model ([Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]), satisfying [Formula: see text]. The widely used percolative equations are well fitted with the experimental results of all PMC at all values of the frequency. The value of [Formula: see text] is found to be independent of frequency of the applied signal, suggesting the studied PMC are real percolating systems. The critical exponents ([Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]) which characterize the divergence of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] in the vicinity of [Formula: see text] are found to decrease with the increase of frequency. The rate of decrease of ‘[Formula: see text]’ and ‘[Formula: see text]’ with increase of frequency is attributed to the method of preparation, size of the fillers, adhesiveness of polymer/filler and the rate of decrease of [Formula: see text] with frequency (due to the absence of different extents of contributions of various types of conventional polarizations).
Conceptual Representations for Computational Concept Creation
Authors: Xiao Ping , Toivonen Hannu , Gross Oskar , Cardoso Amílcar , Correia João , Machado Penousal , Martins Pedro , Oliveira Hugo Goncalo , Sharma Rahul , Pinto Alexandre Miguel , Díaz Alberto , Francisco Virginia , Gervás Pablo , Hervás Raquel , León Carlos , Forth Jamie , Purver Matthew , Wiggins Geraint A. , Miljković Dragana , Podpečan Vid , Pollak Senja , Kralj Jan , Žnidaršič Martin , Bohanec Marko , Lavrač Nada , Urbančič Tanja , Velde Frank Van Der , Battersby Stuart
Published: February 2019

Computational creativity seeks to understand computational mechanisms that can be characterized as creative. The creation of new concepts is a central challenge for any creative system. In this article, we outline different approaches to computational concept creation and then review conceptual representations relevant to concept creation, and therefore to computational creativity. The conceptual representations are organized in accordance with two important perspectives on the distinctions between them. One distinction is between symbolic, spatial and connectionist representations. The other is between descriptive and procedural representations. Additionally, conceptual representations used in particular creative domains, such as language, music, image and emotion, are reviewed separately. For every representation reviewed, we cover the inference it affords, the computational means of building it, and its application in concept creation.
Polar Affine Arithmetic
Authors: Wang Shouxiang , Wang Kai , Wu Lei , Wang Chengshan
Published: February 2019

Uncertainties practically arise from numerous factors, such as ambiguous information, inaccurate model, and environment disturbance. Interval arithmetic has emerged to solve problems with uncertain parameters, especially in the computational process where only the upper and lower bounds of parameters can be ascertained. In rectangular coordinate systems, the basic interval operations and improved interval algorithms have been developed in the numerical analysis. However, in polar coordinate systems, interval arithmetic still suffers from issues of complex computation and overestimation. This article defines a polar affine variable and develops a polar affine arithmetic (PAA) that extends affine arithmetic to the polar coordinate systems, which performs better in many aspects than the corresponding polar interval arithmetic (PIA). Basic arithmetic operations are developed based on the complex affine arithmetic. The Chebyshev approximation theory and the min-range approximation theory are used to identify the best affine approximation. PAA can accurately keep track of the interdependency among multiple variables throughout the calculation procedure, which prominently reduces the solution conservativeness. Numerical examples implemented in MATLAB programs show that, compared with benchmark results from the Monte Carlo method, the proposed PAA ensures completeness of the exact solution and presents a more compact solution region than PIA when dependency exists in the calculation process. Meanwhile, a comparison of affine arithmetic in polar and rectangular coordinates is presented. An application of PAA in circuit analysis is quantitatively presented and potential applications in other research fields involving complex variables in polar form will be gradually developed.
EFFECT OF AlN LAYERS ON THE AlxGa1-xN/GaN GROWN ON SAPPHIRE SUBSTRATES
Authors: Bun Kheam
Published: February 2019

The effect of a thin AlN layer inserted between AlxGa1-xN/GaN heterostructures grown on sapphire substrates was investigated for possible application in opto-electronic and power electronic devices. The heterostructures with two different Al compositions (0.35 and 0.49) were applied to study. After growing a thin AlN interlayer (~10nm) on the buffer GaN/AlN/sapphire substrate, then a thick AlxGa1-xN/GaN heterostructure were grown and investigated the Al mole fractions. Low rocking curves were also achieved with 0.35 and 0.48 for the 0.3 and 0.49 Al compositions, respectively. The experimental results show that with an increasing of Al composition, the crystallinity is also improved with lower surface roughness. The AlxGa1-xN/GaN heterostructures with 0.35 and 0.49 Al compositions were also investigated the electrical characteristics to confirm that they are suitable for development in optoelectronic and power electronic devices.
Analysis of Machining Parameters in WEDM of Al/SiCp20 MMC Using Taguchi-Based Grey-Fuzzy Approach
Authors: Phate Mangesh R. , Toney Shraddha B. , Phate Vikas R.
Published: February 2019

Aluminium silicate metal matrix composite (AlSiC MMC) is satisfying the requirement of material with good mechanical, thermal properties, and good wear resistance. But the difficulties during the machining are the main hurdles to its replacement for other materials. Wire electric discharge machining (WEDM) is a very effective process used for this type of difficult-to-cut material. So an effort has been taken to find out the most favourable level of input parameters for WEDM of AlSiC (20%) composite using a Taguchi-based hybrid grey-fuzzy grade (GFG) approach. The plan for experimentation is designed using Taguchi’s L9 (23) array. The various process parameters considered for the investigation are pulse on time (TON), pulse off time (TOFF), wire feed rate (WFR), and peak current (IP). Surface integrity such as surface roughness measured during the different types of cutting (along straight, inclined, and curvature directions) is considered in the present work. Grey relational analysis (GRA) pooled with the fuzzy logic is effectively used to find out the grey-fuzzy reasoning grade (GFRG). The Taguchi approach is coupled with the GFRG to obtain the optimum set of process parameters. From the experimental findings, it has been observed that the most economical process parameters for WEDM of AlSiCp20 were the pulse on time is 108 microsec, pulse off time is 56 microsec, wire feed rate (WFR) is 4 m/min, and peak current (IP) is 11 amp. From the analysis of variance (ANOVA), it is observed that the pulse on time is the foremost influencing parameters that contribute towards GFRG by 52.61%, followed by the wire feed rate (WFR) 38.32% and the current by 5.45%.
Low-Temperature Performance and Evaluation Index of Gussasphalt for Steel Bridge Decks
Authors: Ye Hongyu , Wang Xuancang , Fang Naren , Su Ziyuan
Published: February 2019

Gussasphalt is widely used in steel deck pavement in cold regions; thus, it should have good low-temperature performance. A method for evaluating the low-temperature performance of gussasphalt is presented in this paper. Low-temperature bending, bending creep, and splitting tests were used to study the performance of different types of gussasphalt. The sensitivity and correlation between low-temperature indices obtained from three methods were compared and analyzed with sensitivity factors and the grey relational coefficient, respectively, and the low-temperature evaluation index and standard of gussasphalt in cold regions were determined. Flow, penetration at 50°C, low-temperature bending, and bending fatigue tests of the trabeculae were carried out after secondary mixing of gussasphalt asphalt concrete. Degradation of the material performance after different storage times was studied. Finally, taking the strain energy density as the main control index and considering the fluidity, the high-temperature performance, fatigue characteristics, technical requirements for storage, and mixing time of gussasphalt in cold weather after two mixing procedures are discussed.