bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simultaneous analysis of carbohydrates, polyols and amines in urine samples using chemical ionization gas chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Kubinec Róbert , Kotora Peter , Ferenczy Viktória , Blaško Jaroslav , Podolec Peter , Hengerics Szabó Alexandra , Behúlová Darina , Bierhanzl Václav , Čabala Radomír , Stuchlík Stanislav , Filipiak Wojciech , Thắng Ngô Mạnh
Published: October 2017

A simple method for the simultaneous derivatization of carbohydrates, polyols, amines and amino acids using hexamethyldisilazane and N,O‐bis(trimethylsilyl)trifluoroacetamide was developed. This method allows the direct derivatization of urine samples without sample pretreatment before derivatization. The method was successfully used for analysis of the selected metabolites in urine samples of healthy individuals and neonates suffering from galactosemia. The limits of detection by positive chemical ionization gas chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry analysis were in the range of 1.0 mgL‐1 for mannitol to 4.7 mg/L for glucose.
Liquid chromatography coupled with hybrid ion trap time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry method for the determination of caulophine in rat bio‐samples and its pharmacokinetic study after intragastric and intraperitoneal administration
Authors: Lu Dan , Xu Xiao , Li Chunlei , Wang Sicen
Published: October 2017

A rapid and precise liquid chromatography coupled with hybrid ion trap/time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry method to detect and quantify caulophine and its possible active metabolites in rat plasma and urine was developed. Samples were prepared by plasma protein precipitation combined with a liquid‐liquid extraction method. The separation was carried out on an InertSustain® C18 column with a mobile phase comprising methanol and 0.1% aqueous formic acid solution. The analysis was complete in 20 min with a flow rate of 0.4 mL/min. Taspine was used as the internal standard. Mass spectrometric detection was conducted with hybrid ion trap/time‐of‐flight equipped with electrospray ionization in the positive ion mode. The calibration curves of caulophine were linear over the concentration ranges of 0.002–0.20 μg/mL for plasma and 0.005–0.50 μg/mL for urine with the correlation coefficients greater than 0.998 in both cases. The method was successfully used to investigate the pharmacokinetics and bioavailability in rat plasma and urine samples after intragastric and intraperitoneal administration of caulophine sodium salt.
Electrophoretic Deposition (EPD) of Lectin in the Presence of New Glycopolymers Aiming at Facile Detection of Carbohydrate–Protein Interactions
Authors: Komura Tomomi , Takasu Akinori
Published: October 2017

Atom transfer radical polymerization of allyl methacrylate followed by a thiol‐ene click reaction with 1‐thio‐β‐D‐glucose tetraacetate is performed to afford a new type of glycopolymers via deacetylation. Their interactions with a sugar‐binding protein are evaluated by electrophoretic deposition (EPD) procedures as well as fluorescence measurements. The deposition amount of concanavalin A (conA) in the presence of glucose or galactose measured by EPD is remarkably different from that in the presence of the synthesized glycopolymer, even though the concentration of sugar residue is the same. The deposition amount, as well as the electric current that flows during the EPD, is higher in the presence of the polymer, which confirms that interaction of conA with the glycopolymer is detected by the EPD procedure.
High Efficiency Conversion of Regenerated Cellulose Hydrogel Directly to Functionalized Cellulose Nanoparticles
Authors: Wang Han‐Qing , Tan Huang , Hua Sun , Liu Zheng‐Ying , Yang Wei , Yang Ming‐Bo
Published: October 2017

This article provides a novel and efficient method of “self‐assembly/modification/dispersion” for the preparation of functionalized cellulose nanoparticles (CNPs) based on regenerated cellulose hydrogel (RCH). The process of the preparation of CNPs is simplified greatly, which contributes to broadening the utilization of CNPs. Under the given conditions, cellulose chains self‐assemble into nanoparticles, which connect with each other to form strings and walls of nanoparticles inside RCH. Then, RCH acts as the hydrophilic precursor of the preparation of CNPs and is modified by oligo side chains to obtain functionalized RCH with imperfect cellulose II structures. After dispersing the functionalized RCH in dimethyl sulfoxide, individual CNPs are finally isolated from functionalized RCH as a result of the decline of the crystallinity of CNPs. Obtained CNPs possess uniform size and good thermal stability, and also exhibit excellent dispersibility in organic solvents. The particle size of CNPs can be adjusted easily by oligo content and particle size of the self‐assembled cellulose nanoparticles in RCH. Prepared CNPs are promising candidates for polymer modification in terms of fillers, and for biomedical fields with respect to drug delivery.
Design and Synthesis of PET‐Based Copolyesters with Flame‐Retardant and Antidripping Performance
Authors: Zhao Hai‐Bo , Wang Yu‐Zhong
Published: October 2017

Poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) is a fiber‐forming polymer with the largest output and widest usage. Its flame retardation is well‐achieved via a mechanism of promoting the melt dripping while ignited. However, the melt dripping leads to secondary damage and an immediate empyrosis during fire. How to address the contradiction between the flame retardation and the melt‐dripping behavior of PET via an inherent flame‐retardant approach becomes a real challenge. This feature article highlights the design and synthesis of novel PET‐based copolyesters with flame‐retardant and antidripping performance. Three approaches are used to design these copolyesters: “ionic aggregation,” “smart self‐cross‐linking,” and “rearrangement at high temperatures.” Some new conceptions are proposed accordingly. The synthesis, structure characterization, and properties of those copolyesters are discussed together with the ongoing challenges and limitations at this frontier.
11C‐PE2I and 18F‐Dopa PET for assessing progression rate in Parkinson's: A longitudinal study
Authors: Li Weihua , Lao‐Kaim Nick P. , Roussakis Andreas A. , Martín‐Bastida Antonio , Valle‐Guzman Natalie , Paul Gesine , Loane Clare , Widner Håkan , Politis Marios , Foltynie Tom , Barker Roger A. , Piccini Paola
Published: October 2017

Background

18F‐dopa PET measuring aromatic l‐amino acid decarboxylase activity is regarded as the gold standard for evaluating dopaminergic function in Parkinson's disease. Radioligands for dopamine transporters are also used in clinical trials and for confirming PD diagnosis. Currently, it is not clear which imaging marker is more reliable for assessing clinical severity and rate of progression. The objective of this study was to directly compare 18F‐dopa with the highly selective dopamine transporter radioligand 11C‐PE2I for the assessment of motor severity and rate of progression in PD.

Methods

Thirty‐three mild‐moderate PD patients underwent 18F‐dopa and 11C‐PE2I PET at baseline. Twenty‐three were followed up for 18.8 ± 3.4 months.

Results

Standard multiple regression at baseline indicated that 11C‐PE2I BPND predicted UPDRS‐III and bradykinesia‐rigidity scores (P < 0.05), whereas 18F‐dopa Ki did not make significant unique explanatory contributions. Voxel‐wise analysis showed negative correlations between 11C‐PE2I BPND and motor severity across the whole striatum bilaterally. 18F‐Dopa Ki clusters were restricted to the most affected putamen and caudate. Longitudinally, negative correlations were found between striatal Δ11C‐PE2I BPND, ΔUPDRS‐III, and Δbradykinesia‐rigidity, whereas no significant associations were found for Δ18F‐dopa Ki. One cluster in the most affected putamen was identified in the longitudinal voxel‐wise analysis showing a negative relationship between Δ11C‐PE2I BPND and Δbradykinesia‐rigidity.

Conclusions

Striatal 11C‐PE2I appears to show greater sensitivity for detecting differences in motor severity than 18F‐dopa. Furthermore, dopamine transporter decline is closely associated with motor progression over time, whereas no such relationship was found with aromatic l‐amino acid decarboxylase. 11C‐PE2I may be more effective for evaluating the efficacy of neuroprotective treatments in PD. © 2017 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Cognitive impairment in progressive supranuclear palsy is associated with tau burden
Authors: Koga Shunsuke , Parks Adam , Kasanuki Koji , Sanchez‐Contreras Monica , Baker Matthew C. , Josephs Keith A. , Ahlskog J. Eric , Uitti Ryan J. , Graff‐Radford Neill , van Gerpen Jay A. , Wszolek Zbigniew K. , Rademakers Rosa , Dickson Dennis W.
Published: October 2017

Background

Cognitive impairment is one of the core features of progressive supranuclear palsy. This study aimed to clarify the profile of cognitive impairment and its underlying pathology in progressive supranuclear palsy.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed medical records to evaluate the pattern and severity of cognitive impairment in 121 autopsy‐confirmed progressive supranuclear palsy patients. A subset of 37 patients underwent neuropsychological evaluation as part of their clinical workup. The burden of progressive supranuclear palsy‐related tau pathology (neurofibrillary tangles/pretangles, coiled bodies, tufted astrocytes, and threads) was semiquantitatively scored in 20 vulnerable brain regions. Concurrent pathologies potentially associated with cognitive impairment, such as Alzheimer's‐type pathology, were also assessed. To evaluate possible genetic risk factors for cognitive impairment, genetic analysis for APOE and MAPT was performed.

Results

Ninety patients (74%) had documented cognitive impairment based on neurologic evaluation. In a subgroup with neuropsychological testing (n = 37), executive functioning was the most severely impaired cognitive domain. A global cognitive impairment index (Spearman's rho, −0.49; P = 0.005) and executive functioning were negatively correlated with total tau burden (Spearman's rho, −0.51; P = 0.003), but not correlated with the Alzheimer's‐type pathology. APOE ɛ4 carriers had more severe amyloid pathology, but total tau burden and a global cognitive impairment index did not differ from APOE ɛ4 noncarriers.

Conclusion

Cognitive impairment in progressive supranuclear palsy, most notably executive dysfunction, is associated with severity of progressive supranuclear palsy‐related tau pathology. © 2017 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Dietary Glycation Products Regulate Immune Homeostasis: Early Glycation Products Promote Prostate Cancer Cell Proliferation through Modulating Macrophages
Authors: Chen Yingjia , Filipov Nikolay M. , Guo Tai L.
Published: October 2017

Scope

Well‐controlled glycation (generally limited to the early stages) has been proposed as a strategy to improve the physiochemical properties of dietary proteins, but the functional studies of glycation products are mostly on advanced glycation end‐products (AGEs) rather than early glycation products (EGPs). Since cytokines are important modulators of various biological processes, this study aims to determine whether EGPs and AGEs affected immune homeostasis differentially and do so through modulating macrophage‐derived factors.

Methods and results

Two systems (glycine‐glucose and whey protein isolate (WPI)‐glucose) are established to generate glycation products. They are applied to human macrophages (PMA‐differentiated U937 cells), and cell viability and cytokine production are measured. Furthermore, EGPs, AGEs, and their conditioned medium (CM) from macrophages are applied to human prostate cancer (PCa) cells with different etiology (LNCaP and PC‐3) and murine PCa cells (TRAMP‐C2) to determine their direct and indirect effects on PCa cell proliferation. EGPs enhance the production of immunosuppressive cytokines, and this enhancement is associated with increased PCa cell proliferation. In contrast, AGEs inhibit macrophages to secret cytokines, but increase PCa cell proliferation directly.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that EGPs promote the prostate tumor proliferation indirectly through modulating macrophages, while AGEs have a direct effect.
Compressed sensing in quantitative determination of GAG concentration in cartilage by microscopic MRI
Authors: Wang Nian , Badar Farid , Xia Yang
Published: October 2017

Purpose

To evaluate the potentials of compressed sensing (CS) in MRI quantification of glycosaminoglycan (GAG) concentration in articular cartilage at microscopic resolution.

Methods

T1‐weighted 2D experiments of cartilage were fully sampled in k‐space with five inversion times at 17.6 μm resolution. These fully sampled k‐space data were re‐processed, by undersampling at various 1D and 2D CS undersampling factors (UFs). The undersampled data were reconstructed individually into 2D images using nonlinear reconstruction, which were used to calculate 2D maps of T1 and GAG concentration. The values of T1 and GAG in cartilage were evaluated at different UFs (up to 16, which used 6.25% of the data). K‐space sampling pattern and zonal variations were also investigated.

Results

Using 2D variable density sampling pattern, the T1 images at UFs up to eight preserved major visual information and produced negligible artifacts. The GAG concentration remained accurate for different sub‐tissue zones at various UFs. The variation of the mean GAG concentration through the whole tissue depth was 1.20%, compared to the fully sampled results. The maximum variation was 2.24% in the deep zone of cartilage. Using 1D variable density sampling pattern, the quantitative T1 mapping and GAG concentration at UFs up to 4 showed negligible variations.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that CS could be beneficial in microscopic MRI (µMRI) studies of cartilage by acquiring less data, without losing significant accuracy in the quantification of GAG concentration. Magn Reson Med 79:3163–3171, 2018. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Internalizing Weight Stigma: Prevalence and Sociodemographic Considerations in US Adults
Authors: Puhl Rebecca M. , Himmelstein Mary S. , Quinn Diane M.
Published: October 2017

Objective

This study aimed to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the presence, severity, and sociodemographic correlates of weight bias internalization (WBI) across three distinct samples of US adults.

Methods

Levels of WBI were compared in (1) a sample of adults with obesity and heightened risk of weight stigma (N = 456), (2) an online community sample (N = 519), and (3) a national online panel (N = 2,529). Samples 2 and 3 comprised adults with and without obesity. Participants completed identical self‐report measures, including demographic variables and weight‐related factors, to determine their relationship with low, mean, and high levels of WBI.

Results

At least 44% of adults across samples endorsed mean levels of WBI (as determined by sample 3). The highest levels of WBI were endorsed by approximately one in five adults in the general population samples and by 52% in the sample of adults with obesity. Individuals with the highest WBI were white, had less education and income, were currently trying to lose weight, and had higher BMIs, higher self‐perceived weight, and previous experiences of weight stigma (especially teasing).

Conclusions

Internalized weight bias is prevalent among women and men and across body weight categories. Findings provide a foundation to better understand characteristics of individuals who are at risk for internalizing weight bias.
Effect of miscibility on migration of third component in star‐like co‐continuous and disperse‐within‐disperse mixed brushes
Authors: Abbaspoor Saleheh , Agbolaghi Samira , Mahmoudi Mojgan , Jahanbani Yalda , Abbasi Farhang , Sarvari Raana
Published: October 2017

Novel ternary mixed‐brush single crystals were designed with disperse‐within‐disperse and star‐like co‐continuous morphologies based on poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)‐b‐polystyrene (PS)/PEG‐b‐poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA)/PEG‐b‐polyaniline (PANI) and PEG‐b‐PS/PEG‐b‐PMMA/PEG‐b‐(poly(ϵ‐caprolactone) (PCL) or poly(l‐lactide) (PLLA)) block copolymers, respectively. In the disperse‐within‐disperse ternary mixed brushes, PANI nanorods were dispersed within the matrix (PS)–dispersed (PMMA) amorphous brushes. The flexibility and rigidity of brushes mainly affected the ultimate morphology and arrangement of amorphous coiled brushes in the vicinity of PANI nanorods. In addition, the migration of PCL and PLLA crystallizable brushes was evident into PMMA phases dispersed in the PS matrix, leading to star‐like co‐continuous patterns of PCL and PLLA brushes. This phenomenon was related to the miscibility of crystallizable PCL and PLLA brushes with the PMMA phase. The migration of crystallizable PCL and PLLA brushes increased the size of PMMA domains in the star‐like co‐continuous patterns. Despite the larger osmotic pressure of PLLA brushes, their higher miscibility with PMMA chains reflected the greater PMMA dispersal and wider PLLA star‐like branches. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
The impact of conventional and nonconventional inhalants on children and adolescents
Authors: Nasr Samya Z. , Nasrallah Ali Ibrahim , Abdulghani Mariam , Sweet Stuart C.
Published: October 2017

Aim

Inhalant abuse in the adolescent population is a growing concern for care givers, communities, physicians, and medical providers. The aim of this article is to provide a review of the literature about this new challenge. In addition, it raises awareness about recent health policy rulings.

Methods

Review of the literature was done.

Results

In this review article, the prevalence of different modes of inhalant use and abuse in children and young adults and their potential health implications will be examined: Cigarettes, ENDS (E Cigarettes), Hookah, Marijuana, and Huffing. Additionally, marketing and advertising tactics will be reviewed to understand how they target this population. A review of current health policy recommendations from the FDA, American Thoracic Society, and the American Academy of Pediatrics will also be discussed.

Conclusion

The rapid rise in e‐cigarette and hookah use in school aged children should trigger a call to action in the medical and public health communities. Health policy recommendations need to be made to reduce the level of adolescent substance abuse.
The nuclear DEK interactome supports multi‐functionality
Authors: Smith Eric A. , Krumpelbeck Eric F. , Jegga Anil G. , Prell Malte , Matrka Marie M. , Kappes Ferdinand , Greis Kenneth D. , Ali Abdullah M. , Meetei Amom R. , Wells Susanne I.
Published: October 2017

DEK is an oncoprotein that is overexpressed in many forms of cancer and participates in numerous cellular pathways. Of these different pathways, relevant interacting partners and functions of DEK are well described in regard to the regulation of chromatin structure, epigenetic marks, and transcription. Most of this understanding was derived by investigating DNA‐binding and chromatin processing capabilities of the oncoprotein. To facilitate the generation of mechanism‐driven hypotheses regarding DEK activities in underexplored areas, we have developed the first DEK interactome model using tandem‐affinity purification and mass spectrometry. With this approach, we identify IMPDH2, DDX21, and RPL7a as novel DEK binding partners, hinting at new roles for the oncogene in de novo nucleotide biosynthesis and ribosome formation. Additionally, a hydroxyurea‐specific interaction with replication protein A (RPA) was observed, suggesting that a DEK‐RPA complex may form in response to DNA replication fork stalling. Taken together, these findings highlight diverse activities for DEK across cellular pathways and support a model wherein this molecule performs a plethora of functions.
New theoretically predicted RDX‐ and β‐HMX‐based high‐energy‐density molecules
Authors: Jeong Keunhong
Published: October 2017

Theoretically new high‐energy‐density materials (HEDM) in which the hydrogens on RDX and β‐HMX (hexahydro‐1,3,5‐trinitro‐1,3,5‐triazine and octahydro‐1,3,5,7‐tetranitro‐1,3,5,7‐tetrazocine, respectively) were sequentially replaced by (NNO2)x functional groups were designed and evaluated using density functional theory calculations in combination with the Kamlet–Jacobs equations and an atoms‐in‐molecules (AIM) analysis. Improved detonation properties and reduced sensitivity compared to RDX and β‐HMX were predicted. Interestingly, the RDX and β‐HMX derivatives having one attached NNO2 group [RDX‐(NNO2)1 and HMX‐(NNO2)1] showed excellent detonation properties (detonation velocities: 9.529 and 9.575 km·s−1, and detonation pressures: 40.818 and 41.570 GPa, respectively), which were superior to the parent compounds. Sensitivity estimations obtained by calculating impact sensitivities and HOMO‐LUMO gaps indicated that RDX‐(NNO2)1 and HMX‐(NNO2)1 were less stable than RDX and HMX but more stable than any of the other derivatives. This method of sequential NNO2 group attachment on conventional HEDMs offers a firm basis for further studies on the design of new explosives. Furthermore, the newly found structures may be promising candidates for better HEDMs.
Distance‐based control of formations with hybrid communication topology
Authors: Hou Yun , Yu Changbin
Published: October 2017

In this paper, we focus on the control of multiagent formations with hybrid communication topology through a distance‐based approach. By saying hybrid topology, we mean that the communication topology contains both undirected and directed links, or the underlying graph of the formation contains both undirected and directed edges. A new type of graph, ie, hybrid graph, is introduced. We discuss the persistence of hybrid graphs and present the persistence verification strategy for hybrid graphs. It is proved that all the minimally persistent hybrid graphs can be obtained from persistent directed graphs by the operation of edge transformation. As the main result, it is shown that multiagent formations modeled by acyclic persistent hybrid graphs can be stabilized locally under distance‐based controllers.
Performance analysis of 2‐DOF tracking control for a class of nonlinear uncertain systems with discontinuous disturbances
Authors: Xue Wenchao , Huang Yi
Published: October 2017

In this paper, the tracking control problem is considered for a class of uncertain nonlinear systems with infinite discontinuous points in the external disturbance. The extended state observer–based 2‐degree‐of‐freedom control is used with one degree to estimate and cancel the “total disturbance” and the other to force the closed‐loop system to have desired characteristics. The tracking error between the state vector and its ideal trajectory in the entire transient process is adequately discussed to illuminate the performance of resulting control systems. The quantitative analysis shows that the tracking error can be small enough by tuning the bandwidth of the extended state observer. Moreover, the necessary and sufficient condition for the tracking error and the estimation error of the “total disturbance” to converge to zero is presented. The simulation results of a motion test demonstrate that the desired performance of the control system can be achieved despite discontinuous disturbance and nonlinear uncertainties.
Adaptive output‐feedback Lyapunov‐based model predictive control of nonlinear process systems
Authors: Das Buddhadeva , Mhaskar Prashant
Published: October 2017

This work addresses the problem of output feedack control of nonlinear uncertain systems via adaptive Lyapunov‐based model predictive control design. To this end, at every control implementation, a moving horizon mechanism is first utilized to generate current estimates of the uncertainty and states. The model with the current estimated uncertainty is then used in a Lyapunov‐based model predictive controller to achieve uncertainty rejection. The key ideas are explained through an illustrative example and the application demonstrated on a networked reactor‐separator process subject to measurement noise and uncertainty.
Stability analysis of time‐delay systems via Bessel inequality: A quadratic separation approach
Authors: Ariba Yassine , Gouaisbaut Frédéric , Seuret Alexandre , Peaucelle Dimitri
Published: October 2017

In this paper, new sufficient stability conditions for the asymptotic stability of time‐delay systems are presented using the quadratic separation approach. The time‐delay system is modeled as an interconnected closed‐loop system involving a linear transformation and delay‐dependent functions, representing the uncertainties brought by the delay. Those complex‐valued functions are then embedded into adequate norm‐bounded uncertainties, which lead to several stability results. The novelty of this approach relies on the introduction of new dedicated functions that are built in accordance to the Bessel inequality. They allow us to model the system as an uncertain feedback system and to control the accuracy of the inequality. Then, a sequence of linear matrix inequality conditions is proposed, which tends to the analytical bounds for both delay‐dependent stability and delay range stability, at least on examples.
How to avoid small results with big data
Authors: Joshi Amit
Published: October 2017

Big data and analytics are buzzwords that elicit both excitement and fear in managers in most firms, small or large. Firms are competing with each other to implement their data and analytics strategies, in the process spending billions of dollars, either to cement their leadership position or play catch‐up with their closest competitors. According to a recent report by the International Data Corporation, the big data and business analytics (BDA) market is expected to generate a revenue of $150 billion in 2017.

Moreover, this industry is predicted to grow at over 12% annually, crossing the $200 billion mark by 2020.
DIY Research
Authors: Macer Tim
Published: October 2017

Tim Macer interviews Mario Callegaro, a senior research scientist at Google
Pairwise residuals and diagnostic tests for misspecified dependence structures in models for binary longitudinal data
Authors: Breinegaard Nina , Rabe‐Hesketh Sophia , Skrondal Anders
Published: October 2017

Maximum likelihood estimation of models for binary longitudinal data is typically inconsistent if the dependence structure is misspecified. Unfortunately, diagnostics specifically designed for detecting such misspecifications are scant. We develop residuals and diagnostic tests based on comparing observed and expected frequencies of response patterns over time in the presence of arbitrary time‐varying and time‐invariant covariates. To overcome the sparseness problem, we use lower‐order marginal tables, such as two‐way tables for pairs of time‐points, aggregated over covariate patterns. Our proposed pairwise concordance residuals are valuable for exploratory diagnostics and for constructing both generic tests for misspecified dependence structure as well as targeted adjacent pair concordance tests for excess serial dependence. The proposed methods are straightforward to implement and work well for general situations, regardless of the number of time‐points and the number and types of covariates.
Weighted estimation for confounded binary outcomes subject to misclassification
Authors: Gravel Christopher A. , Platt Robert W.
Published: October 2017

In the presence of confounding, the consistency assumption required for identification of causal effects may be violated due to misclassification of the outcome variable. We introduce an inverse probability weighted approach to rebalance covariates across treatment groups while mitigating the influence of differential misclassification bias. First, using a simplified example taken from an administrative health care dataset, we introduce the approach for estimation of the marginal causal odds ratio in a simple setting with the use of internal validation information. We then extend this to the presence of additional covariates and use simulated data to investigate the finite sample properties of the proposed weighted estimators. Estimation of the weights is done using logistic regression with misclassified outcomes, and a bootstrap approach is used for variance estimation.
Does stress mediate the association between personal relative deprivation and gambling?
Authors: Mishra Sandeep , Meadows Tyler J. S.
Published: October 2017

Evidence has linked subjective feelings of personal relative deprivation with general gambling involvement and problem gambling tendencies. In turn, problem gambling tendencies have been linked with a wide array of damaging physical and mental health consequences. It has been theorized that the deleterious effects of perceived inequality on mental and physical health operate at the individual level through the experience of personal relative deprivation leading to psychosocial stress. We empirically examined whether the experience of perceived stress contributes to explaining the deprivation‐gambling link using cross‐sectional, self‐reported survey data collected from a crowdsourced population of adults (n = 565). Results indicate that personal relative deprivation is associated with problem gambling tendencies (but not general gambling involvement) and that this association is mediated by perceived stress. These associations were particularly strong among participants who reported non‐zero levels of problem gambling tendencies. Together, our results further emphasize the importance of individual‐level social comparison reactions in the context of health.
Enhancing Strength of Nanolaminate 1045 Steel Prepared by Aluminothermic Reaction through Multiple Warm Rolling
Authors: Li Zhengning , Wei Fuan , La Peiqing , Sheng Jie
Published: October 2017

Large dimensional bulk 1045 carbon steel with nanolaminate pearlite is prepared by aluminothermic reaction casting method. The steel is rolled at 873 K with different thickness reduction. Microstructures evolution and mechanical properties are characterized in detail. The results show that the nanolaminate cementites are crushed with the increase of thickness reduction, the dislocation density increases, meanwhile the tensile strength is improved greatly. The rolled steels possess the key combination of three characteristics, namely, high density dislocation, nanolamination, and second‐phase particles. When the thickness reduction is 60%, most of the lamellar cementites are crushed to globular particles, the tensile strength reaches 719 MPa, and the elongation is 14%. It provides a guidance for all high strength alloy design efforts by this route.
Narrative Manhood Acts: Batterer Intervention Program Graduates' Tragic Relationships
Authors: Schrock Douglas , McCabe Janice , Vaccaro Christian
Published: October 2017

We analyze how twenty graduates of a Batterer Intervention Program constructed autobiographical stories about their relationships with women they assaulted. We focus on the presentation of gendered selves via narrative manhood acts, which we define as self‐narratives that signify membership in the category “man” and the possession of a masculine self. We also show how graduates constructed self‐narratives as a genre that was oppositional to organizational narratives: rather than adopting the program's domestic violence melodrama or preferred conversion narrative, graduates used the larger culture—especially “bitch” imagery and sometimes racialized discourse—to construct tragedies. Our study demonstrates the usefulness of narrative analysis for research on batterers' accounts and manhood acts, and also shows how oppositional genre‐making can be a method to resist organizational narratives.
Teaching Study Skills
Authors: Fisher Douglas , Frey Nancy
Published: October 2017

Literacy instruction does not just happen during the language arts block, as students can learn more about reading and writing during science, social studies, and mathematics. This department features examples of how teachers can teach literacy across various content areas.
Reading the Past to Inform the Future: 25 Years of The Reading Teacher
Authors: Mohr Kathleen A.J. , Ding Guoqin , Strong Ashley , Branum Lezlie , Watson Nanette , Priestley K. Lea , Juth Stephanie , Carpenter Neil , Lundstrom Kacy
Published: October 2017

This analysis examines articles from the past 25 years of The Reading Teacher to better understand the journal's content and trends influencing literacy instruction. A research team coded and analyzed the frequency of topics and grade levels targeted, then compared results with those of a similar analysis published in 1992. The Web of Science provided current information about trends in authorship and the popularity of highly cited and frequently accessed articles. This report shares various metrics, insights, and interpretations that help profile the impact of The Reading Teacher and make predictions about the future of reading instruction.
Developing English Learners’ Reading Confidence With Whole‐Class Repeated Reading
Authors: Monobe Gumiko , Bintz William P. , McTeer Janis S.
Published: October 2017

This Teaching Tip describes how one second‐grade teacher used whole‐class repeated reading (WCRR) to promote social interaction and develop reading confidence with English learners (ELs). The authors share a brief review of professional literature on the challenges of ELs and the benefits of repeated reading and WCRR. The authors also provide instructional recommendations for teachers interested in using WCRR in the classroom: prepare intentionally and implement systematically, select texts thoughtfully and sensitively, promote active engagement, support public performance and family involvement, and support reading growth and development. The authors end with final thoughts about how WCRR can help create an inclusive classroom and ultimately help all students, particularly ELs, learn together in an active, meaningful, and enjoyable environment.
Context‐aware movement analytics: implications, taxonomy, and design framework
Authors: Sharif Mohammad , Alesheikh Ali Asghar
Published: October 2017

Movement of an entity is greatly affected by its internal and external contexts. Such consequential influence has created new paradigms for context‐aware movement data mining and analysis. The significance of incorporating contextual information and movement data is becoming quite evident because of the growing interest in context‐aware movement analysis. Despite such importance, there is limited consensus among researchers on the definition of context and context‐aware system design in movement studies. Therefore, this paper comprehensively reviews current concepts of context and provides a definition and a taxonomy for context in movement analysis. The paper proceeds by providing a definition of context‐aware systems in the movement area after a complete review and comparison of the present definitions present in the literature. Inspired by related works, the paper further suggests a holistic three‐layer design framework tailored to context‐aware systems in movement studies to examine in greater depth the techniques applied during the design stages. The paper outlines the challenges and emergent issues in future research directions in context‐aware movement analysis. The present study is an attempt to bridge the gap between solely using context and developing context‐aware systems, thus paving the way for further research in movement applications. WIREs Data Mining Knowl Discov 2018, 8:e1233. doi: 10.1002/widm.1233

This article is categorized under:

Fundamental Concepts of Data and Knowledge > Data Concepts

Fundamental Concepts of Data and Knowledge > Human Centricity and User Interaction

Fundamental Concepts of Data and Knowledge > Key Design Issues in Data Mining
Archaeometric study of possible Ninevite‐5 pottery from upper Tigris region using SEM‐EDS, PEDXRF, and OM
Authors: Bayazit Murat
Published: October 2017

This study aims to reveal the production technology of some representative samples of possible Ninevite‐5 potsherds which are generally dated between the Early Jezirah I to EJ‐II/EJ‐III periods (roughly 3000–2500 bc) and accepted as the typical ceramics reflecting the northern Mesopotamian culture in the first half of the 3rd millennium BC. The samples were selected from the archeological excavation area of Kuriki (upper Tigris region, Turkey) and exposed to multiple analytical techniques including scanning electron microscopy with an energy dispersive spectrometer, optical microscopy, and polarized energy dispersive X‐ray fluorescence spectrometry. The results showed that all the samples have high amounts of CaO (up to 29.83 wt.%) indicating use of calcareous clay deposits and they have an analogous chemical compositions in terms of both major oxides and trace elements which implied the use of the same raw materials. The vitrification degrees of the samples, examined by back scattered electron images, suggested that the firing temperature of the potsherds did not exceed the range of 800–900°C. It was also revealed that the firing atmosphere was oxidative which would be attributed to use of kiln firing rather than a bonfire or pit firing. Both the chemical and petrographic results suggested that the investigated samples presumably belong to a regional (upper Tigris) production rather than a local one.
A combinatorial approach to synthetic transcription factor‐promoter combinations for yeast strain engineering
Authors: Dossani Zain Y. , Reider Apel Amanda , Szmidt‐Middleton Heather , Hillson Nathan J. , Deutsch Samuel , Keasling Jay D. , Mukhopadhyay Aindrila
Published: October 2017

Despite the need for inducible promoters in strain development efforts, the majority of engineering in Saccharomyces cerevisiae continues to rely on a few constitutively active or inducible promoters. Building on advances that use the modular nature of both transcription factors and promoter regions, we have built a library of hybrid promoters that are regulated by a synthetic transcription factor. The hybrid promoters consist of native S. cerevisiae promoters, in which the operator regions have been replaced with sequences that are recognized by the bacterial LexA DNA binding protein. Correspondingly, the synthetic transcription factor (TF) consists of the DNA binding domain of the LexA protein, fused with the human estrogen binding domain and the viral activator domain, VP16. The resulting system with a bacterial DNA binding domain avoids the transcription of native S. cerevisiae genes, and the hybrid promoters can be induced using estradiol, a compound with no detectable impact on S. cerevisiae physiology. Using combinations of one, two or three operator sequence repeats and a set of native S. cerevisiae promoters, we obtained a series of hybrid promoters that can be induced to different levels, using the same synthetic TF and a given estradiol. This set of promoters, in combination with our synthetic TF, has the potential to regulate numerous genes or pathways simultaneously, to multiple desired levels, in a single strain.
Why Europe Matters
Authors: McCormick John
Published: October 2017

Critics like to depict the European Union as undemocratic and unpopular, but their arguments are too often based on myths and misunderstandings. This does us all a disservice, and in this period of uncertainty about the future of Europe it is more important than ever that we have a firm grasp of the issues at stake.

This powerful new book debunks the misconceptions surrounding the EU and makes a compelling and comprehensive case for the benefits of European integration. It shows how the EU has improved the lives of Europeans in countless ways, and how it has given Europe a powerful presence on the international stage. Guaranteed to illuminate as well as spark debate, this book will appeal to anyone who seeks to better understand what Europe means and why it matters.
The Myth of Autism
Authors: Timimi Sami , Gardner Neil , McCabe Brian
Published: October 2017

In this groundbreaking book, the authors dispute the concept of autism and explore the cultural and political reasons why the number of those diagnosed with it has increased over the years. This is a must-read for students studying autism and related disorders as well as practitioners working in the mental health services.
Correction to: CYP79 P450 monooxygenases in gymnosperms: CYP79A118 is associated with the formation of taxiphyllin in Taxus baccata
Authors: Luck Katrin , Jia Qidong , Huber Meret , Handrick Vinzenz , Wong Gane Ka-Shu , Nelson David R. , Chen Feng , Gershenzon Jonathan , Köllner Tobias G.
Published: October 2017

Due to an unfortunate turn of events, the funding note for Open Access publication was not properly provided in the original publication. Hence, the original article has been corrected. The opening line of the Acknowledgement section should read:
Foreign Relations Law as a Field of Study
Authors: Bradley Curtis A.
Published: October 2017

This essay offers a working definition of “foreign relations law,” describes its various sources, and distinguishes it from international law. It also provides some comparative illustrations of this law and notes some reasons for both commonalities and differences in this law across national jurisdictions. Finally, it discusses the growing emergence of foreign relations law as a field of study outside the United States.
Foreign Relations Law and Global Constitutionalism
Authors: Peters Anne
Published: October 2017

This essay draws upon the perspectives, concepts, and tools developed in the literature on global constitutionalism as support for “normalizing” foreign relations law—that is, presumptively subjecting foreign relations actions to the constitutional and other legal standards that apply to domestic actions.
IMPLEMENTING INDIVIDUAL SAVINGS DECISIONS FOR RETIREMENT WITH BOUNDS ON WEALTH
Authors: Donnelly Catherine , Guillen Montserrat , Nielsen Jens Perch , Pérez-Marín Ana Maria
Published: October 2017

We present a savings plan for retirement that removes risk by fixing a constraint on a life-long pension so that it has an upper and a lower bound. This corresponds to the ideas of Nobel laureate R.C. Merton whose implementation has never been published. We show with an illustration that our proposed practical algorithm reproduces the theoretical results after a savings period of around 30 years by using daily, monthly, weekly or yearly updates of the investment positions. We calculate the percentiles of the final accumulated wealth distribution for the adjusted implementation. In the simulated illustration, we observe that the adjusted values converge to the theoretical values of the percentiles when the frequency of update increases. We conclude that monthly adjustments result in a practical way to implement theoretical results that were obtained under the hypothesis of a continuous process by Donnellyet al.(2015). This method is easy to use in practice by pension savers and fund managers.
The Promise and Perils of Direct Democracy for the European Union
Authors: MENDEZ Fernando , MENDEZ Mario
Published: October 2017

Direct democracy exhibits both promise and peril for the EU. The referendum has been deployed by Member States in a way that has shaped and will continue to shape the EU’s geographical boundaries, its constitutional evolution, and salient EU policy matters. The referendum’s promise is to accord a high degree of legitimacy to a political decision, but that promise varies across different types of EU referendum. Their peril for the EU has become increasingly apparent as they have proliferated in number and type and with a growing failure rate. In contrast, the European Citizens’ Initiative is intended to harness the promise of direct democracy for the EU. But current practice raises the question of whether the failure to satisfy the ambitions placed on this novel instrument could, paradoxically, become a source of peril. Contrary to an increasingly pessimistic narrative, it is concluded that practice under the ECI exhibits promise and that the future of this instruments appears bright.
A Just System? How Punitive Youth Justice Systems Increase the Risk of Crime
Authors: Edwards Julie
Published: October 2017

For children and young people who offend, contact with the justice system can lead to life-long offending, with evidence showing that the younger a child enters the justice system the more likely he/she is to have sustained contact and go on to reoffend (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), 2017). Local and international youth justice approaches that aim to rehabilitate or resocialise the child or young person often have more success in preventing reoffending (Elwick, Davis, Crehan, & Clay, 2013). So, what is it that makes an effective youth justice system, and how can we ensure that children and young people are diverted from the criminal justice system effectively and that those who offend do not continue into a life of crime?
Modelling the dynamics of complex early design processes: an agent-based approach
Authors: Fernandes João Ventura , Henriques Elsa , Silva Arlindo , Pimentel César
Published: October 2017

Among the different phases of complex design processes, early design is the most dynamic and unpredictable stage since it involves a great deal of uncertainty, concurrency of activity streams, collaborative design iterations, and distributed and adaptive decision-making behaviour in response to both organizational commitments and to the occurrence of unforeseen events. This paper argues that current activity-based modelling approaches have limited ability to capture the dynamics of complex early design processes and explores novel modelling approaches. The development of an Agent Model for Planning and rEsearch of eaRly dEsign (AMPERE) aiming to capture various facets of uncertainty, iteration, collaboration and adaptation is described. The model was developed to tackle early design phases of complex systems, with the ability to deal with changes in requirements coming in and affecting the subsequent design evolution while design tasks are on-going. Initial results from agent-based simulations are presented, showing how the agent-based approach can support industrial organizations evaluating likely early design project performance and understanding complex cause–effect relationships that may affect project outcomes. Early design planning support from the agent model is demonstrated through an investigation to the likely project performance for varying levels of externally driven requirements change.
Feasibility and acceptability of a universal screening and referral protocol for gender-based violence with women seeking care in health clinics in Dadaab refugee camps in Kenya
Authors: Vu A. , Wirtz A. L. , Bundgaard S. , Nair A. , Luttah G. , Ngugi S. , Glass N.
Published: October 2017

Background.

Gender-based violence (GBV) is both a global public health problem and violation of human rights. Refugees and internally displaced persons experience an increased risk of GBV and health outcomes associated with GBV are often exacerbated in conflict settings.

Methods.

A mixed methods study to examine the feasibility and acceptability of universal screening for GBV in a refugee population in the Dadaab refugee camp of Kenya, using the ASIST-GBV from January to July 2015.

Results.

Of 9366 women offered screening at International Rescue Committee health clinics, about 89% (n = 8369) female refugees consented to participate. Only 15% of the potentially eligible population could participate in GBV screening because of the ongoing struggle to identify private space in the clinics. Over 85% of women reported being ‘willing’ or ‘very willing’ to participate in GBV screening; 96% felt they had a good or very good experience with the screening protocol. Qualitative findings stressed the importance of securing a room/space in the busy clinic is critical to universal screening with referral to safe and confidential services for survivors.

Conclusions.

The findings suggest that the evidence-based ASIST-GBV is both feasible to implement and acceptable to both providers and women seeking care. Universal GBV screening and referral is an effective way for health care and service providers in humanitarian settings to assist survivors of GBV.