bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Farmers’ Perceptions of Rice Production Constraints and Stem Borers Management Practices in Tanzania
Authors: January Bonaventure , Rwegasira Gration M. , Tefera Tadele
Published: May 2018

Rice farmers in Tanzania continue to experience losses due to stem borers. However, the information on farmers’ knowledge and perceptions of rice stem borers is limited and farmers’ efforts on managing this insect have been ineffective. The aim of this study was to investigate constraints affecting rice production and farmers’ approaches of stem borer management in irrigated low land rice ecosystems in Tanzania. Research method: A focus group discussion with farmers using a semi-structured questionnaire was used for data collection. The information collected included: farmers’ socio-economic profiles, farm characteristics, knowledge and perceptions of stem borers and their management practices.Farmers reported insect pests such as stem borers, white flies, leaf rollers and grasshoppers as major constraints of rice production. Other constraints reported were such as diseases, damage by birds, drought, weeds and lack of access to credit for purchasing inputs. Most of the farmers apply chemical insecticides against rice insect pests particularly stem-borers where number of health hazards have been reported. Very few farmers use cultural methods including crop residue disposal and split application of nitrogenous fertilizers for reduction of stem borer damages. The study revealed that, most farmers have limited knowledge on the recommended stem borer management practices and suggests that environmentally friendly pest management methods to be designed and implemented to minimize losses associated with rice stem borers.
Distribution, Incidence and Severity of Maize Lethal Necrosis Disease in Major Maize Growing Agro-ecological Zones of Uganda
Authors: Mudde Barnabas , Olubayo Florence M’mogi , Miano Douglas Watuku , Asea Godfrey , Kilalo Dora C. , Kiggundu Andrew , Bomet Daniel K. , Adriko John
Published: May 2018

The distribution, incidence and severity of maize lethal necrosis (MLN) disease in major maize growing agro-ecological zones (AEZ) of Uganda was determined following field surveys carried out in 16 major maize growing districts from 5 AEZ over three consecutive seasons. A total of 604 maize fields were visited and MLN disease status visually assessed and 3,624 maize leaf samples collected for identification and confirmation of the MLN causal viruses by Double antibody sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (DAS-ELISA) and Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR). MLN disease was not widely distributed at an epidemic proportion, with only 36 (5%) of the 604 farms surveyed over three seasons confirmed to have the disease. The MLN incidence and severity was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in the Eastern AEZ during the three seasons. The main MLN-causing viruses detected using DAS-ELISA were Maize chlorotic mottle virus (MCMV) and Sugarcane mosaic virus (SCMV). MCMV was the most prevalent MLN causing virus driving the epidemic in Uganda. The three major districts where MLN disease has been found in all three seasons surveyed are Bulambuli, Tororo and Busia which are hotspots for MLN disease. Strategies to control spread of MLN disease should focus on high risk AEZs and hotspot districts.
Effect of Trichoderma on Growth and Sporangia Production of Phytophthora capsici
Authors: Ramirez-Delgado Estefania , Luna-Ruiz Jose de J. , Moreno-Rico Onesimo , Quiroz-Velasquez Jesus D.C. , Hernandez-Mendoza Jose L.
Published: May 2018

Phytophthora capsici is the main agent of chili pepper root rot, causing significant yield losses in commercial fields worldwide. Management of this plant pathogen has been difficult due to its ability to develop fungicide resistance, therefore biocontrol of P. capsici appears to be a promising alternative. In this study we evaluated the effects of three species of Trichoderma: T. harzianum (Th-7), T. koningiopsis (Tk NRRL50190) and T. asperellum (Ta NRRL50191) on two mexican isolates of P. capsici (RDP-1 and RDP-2) obtained from commercial pepper fields in Aguascalientes, Mexico. The ability to inhibit mycelia growth of P. capsici was tested with in vitro assays, followed by the quantification of sporangia after dual confrontations. All Trichoderma isolates inhibited the mycelia growth of the phytopathogen, but only Ta and Tk showed mycoparasitism. Sporangia production of P. capsici RDP-1 and RDP-2 was significantly reduced by Trichoderma isolates, compared to the non-confronted control, except for the Th-RDP-2 confrontation. Sporangia of RDP-1 significantly decreased by 95.6%, 81.3% and 78% after confrontations with Tk, Ta and Th, respectively; and by 76% and 85.4% in RDP-2 by Tk and Ta, respectively. The results suggest that Ta, Tk and Th could be used as potential biocontrol agents of Phytopthora root rot, however, further studies are necessary to test the in vivo protection of Ta, Tk and Th and their synergistic effects against Phytophthora root rot of chile peppers and other P. capsici susceptible solanaceous and cucurbitaceous crops such as tomatoes, squash, melons, and cucumbers.
Nutritional Status and Productive Components of Maize Fertilized With Sewage Sludge
Authors: Breda Carlos Cesar , Tavanti Renan Francisco Rimoldi , Freddi Onã Da Silva , Tavanti Tauan Rimoldi , Piedade Aline Regina , Mahl Denise , Guerrini Iraê Amaral , Traballi Rogério Carlos
Published: May 2018

The response of crops to the application of biofertilizers in the soil is not yet well established. Therefore, we carried out this study with the objective of evaluating the productive potential of maize fertilized with doses of sewage sludge, comparing with the use of mineral fertilizer over four agricultural seasons. The experiment was conducted in a Red Dystroferric Nitosol (Ultisol) in a randomized block design and repeated measures in time. The treatments consisted of five doses of sewage sludge and one treatment using nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in formulation. All fertilizations were carried out at maize sowing at four planting times (summer and 2nd crop of 1st agricultural year and, summer and 2nd crop of 2nd agricultural year) and replicates. The results showed a cumulative increase in the P, Ca, Mg and Zn leaf concentrations over the four seasons crops, when the sewage sludge was used in the 30 and 40 Mg ha-1 doses. However, reductions in plant height, weight and maize cob diameter, mass and grain yield were observed at the end of the last harvest. The treated sewage sludge is a viable alternative for maize fertilization in the first harvest, provides increases in grain yield in the order of 1.35 Mg ha-1 and can be recommended instead of NPK mineral fertilizers in built-up fertility soils.
Impact of Light Intensity and Nitrogen of Nutrient Solution on Nitrate Content in Three Lettuce Cultivars Prior to Harvest
Authors: Khan Khurshid Ahmed , Yan Zhengnan , He Dongxian
Published: May 2018

Nitrate smoothly accumulates in leafy vegetables and poses serious health hazards if connected excessively in the human diet. The objective of this study was to improve the cultivation method of low nitrate lettuce grown in plant factory. A substantial decrease of nitrate content (NO3-) in three lettuce cultivars were subjected by short-term pre-harvest treatment combined with lowing nitrogen supply of nutrient solution to half concentration and high photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD) by LED lighting. The lettuce (Lactuca sativa L. cv. Frill ice, Lvzhu, Ziwei) were hydroponically grown in full strength of nutrient solution based on Yamasaki formula up to harvest time within a controlled environment under two light sources using fluorescent lamps and LEDs. The results demonstrated that a subsequent 3-days treatment of additional PPFD from 250 µmol m-2 s-1 to 350 µmol m-2 s-1 from 18 days after transplanting and half concentrations of nitrogen (NO3--N) in nutrient solution which is composition to standard resulted in the decrease of nitrate content as compared to plants grown under initial PPFD and full concentration of NO3--Ncomposition. The gradual decrease in nitrate content was accompanied by an increased concentration of nutritionally carbohydrates. Another important indicator of nutritional quality such as vitamin C content exhibited some variation, fresh weight of cultivars in cv. Frill ice and Ziwei observed higher with fluorescent lamps and for cv. Lvzhu with LED treatment section followed by lowest nitrate content of fresh leaves, respectively. Further, presented results disclosed that to avoid high accumulation of nitrate in leafy vegetables, the strategy of lowering nitrogen supply and increasing light intensity prior to harvest benefiting growers and consumers by improving quality of the product also making it consumer friendly.
SCHOOL MUSEUMS IN THE KINGDOM OF
POLAND – IDENTIFICATION OF MAIN ISSUES
Authors: Tołysz Aldona
Published: May 2018

School museums – which had been founded
mostly in the vicinity of educational institutions – used to
collect teaching aids. So-called natural history cabinets
were the most popular among them, recommended, inter
alia, by the Commission of National Education in 1783. The
tradition of collecting this type of exhibits was common
until the middle of the 20th century. There are two types
to be distinguished: school museums and pedagogical
museums, which differ with respect to the character of
their activity and the kind of exhibits. School museums
collected basically objects of natural science, instruments
for teaching geography, chemistry and mathematics as
well as prints and facilities used during lessons. The second
group also specialised in exhibits of natural science, but they
were no longer used and usually of higher scientific value,
including patterns and examples known in the education
system. Among the earliest school museums created in
the Kingdom of Poland were Warsaw collections of the
Institute for Deaf and Blind People (1875), and those of the
Eugeniusz Babiński’s so-called Realschule. At the beginning
of the 20th century the idea was spreading, inspired inter
alia by the exemplary activity of the Polish School Museum
in Lviv (1903). The biggest number of school museums
and collections were created in institutions founded by
the Polish Educational Society (1906–1907). The survived
resources give us relatively detailed information about the
collections from Warsaw and Pabianice, which aspired to
be categorised as pedagogical museums. The Secondary
School for Boys of the Merchants Association in Łódź and
the Pedagogical Museum in Warsaw (1917) had also in their
possession some interesting collections. The latter one was
based upon the collections of former governmental schools,
in which – in accordance with a decree issued by Russian
authorities – the scientific exhibits were to be collected.
FAN FICTION E PARÓDIA: UMA TENTATIVA DE VIABILIZAÇÃO DA PRODUÇÃO DE FÃS EM MEIO À AUSÊNCIA DE REFORMA DA LEI DE DIREITOS AUTORAIS
Authors: Camelo Ana Paula , Liguori Filho Carlos Augusto
Published: May 2018

O presente artigo busca descrever e analisar o popular fenômeno da fan fiction frente ao direito autoral brasileiro.  Fan fiction consiste em uma forma de produção literária produzida por fãs, que utilizam-se de elementos de histórias originais, como personagens e cenários, para a elaboração de uma obra nova, que é compartilhada livremente entre fãs por meio de plataformas online. Por causa de sua composição, este tipo de produção é considerada obra derivada pela atual lei de direitos autorais, modalidade que exige autorização do detentor dos direitos da obra original, sob pena de violação de direito autoral. A lei, no entanto, prevê algumas situações em que esta autorização não é necessária, as limitações ao direito autoral, como é o caso da figura da paródia. Busca-se, então, compreender na doutrina e na jurisprudência o que se entende por paródia para enfim identificar quais categorias de fan fiction poderiam ser enquadradas na limitação, de forma a tentar viabilizar ao menos em parte este tipo de produção cultural frente à ausência de reforma da lei.
A JUDICIALIZAÇÃO DO DIREITO À SAÚDE NO CONSTITUCIONALISMO BRASILEIRO: ESCASSEZ, CUSTOS E EFICIÊNCIA ECONÔMICO-SOCIAL
Authors: Gonçalves Everton Das Neves , Silva Marco Aurélio Souza da
Published: May 2018

A Carta Política de 1988 estabeleceu que a saúde é direito de todos e dever do Estado. Diante da incapacidade do Poder Executivo em dar efetividade a esse direito, o Poder Judiciário tem obrigado o Estado a custear medicamentos pleiteados individualmente. O problema se refere aos limites das determinações judiciais. As concessões individuais também prejudicam o atendimento coletivo, desorganizam as contas públicas e deslocam recursos previamente programados. Partindo do método dedutivo, o estudo tem por objetivo evidenciar que a escassez dos recursos públicos conduz à ideia de que a efetivação do direito individual à saúde apresenta custos econômicos que geram consequências para a coletividade. Conclui-se que a decisão judicial, nesses casos, não deve prescindir dos fundamentos econômicos e consequencialistas da análise econômica.
BETWEEN FOOTPRINTS: BALANCING ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY AND PRIVACY IN SMART TOURISM DESTINATIONS
Authors: Masseno Manuel David , Santos Cristiana Teixeira
Published: May 2018

Os dados estão na base de todas as atividades turísticas inteligentes pois os turistas ficam envolvidos em serviços diferentes e personalizados antes/durante/depois das viagens ou das férias. Para estas interações, um rastro de dados é imperceptivelmente obtido por um meio ambiente embebido em tecnologia, sendo depois minerado e armazenado no contexto de Destinos Turísticos Inteligentes para criar experiências valiosas, designadamente relacionadas com a eco-responsabilidade, assim como facultando vantagens competitivas a tais destinos. Ao mesmo tempo, estas tecnologias permitem aos destinos turísticos uma otimização do uso de recursos naturais e da energia, assim como a preservação dos espaços naturais, em síntese, reduzindo a “pegada ecológica” do turismo. Porém, isto ocorre com um custo, o de uma “pegada de dados” acrescida. Consequentemente, a fruição apercebida de experiências tem de ser considerada no contexto normativo da Privacidade e da Proteção de Dados proteção de dados expondo os riscos potencias relacionados que lhe são inerentes, analisando as respostas das pelo RGPD - Regulamento Geral sobre Proteção de Dados da União Europeia. Assim, os objetivos do artigo são os seguintes: i. identificar as especificidades dos Destinos Turísticos Inteligentes; ii. mostrar como os princípios da proteção de dados, tal como constam do RGPD, são relevantes para os DTI; iii, finalmente, avaliar as consequências jurídicas potenciais deste ecossistema. A nossa perspectiva assenta numa análise jurídica de natureza académica. Sobretudo, procuramos mostrar como as implicações jurídicas das experiências turísticas reforçadas pelas tecnologias têm sido subestimadas, tal como o envolvimento informado e consciente das pessoas nestes processos. Este estudo é novo ao ter empreendido uma exploração inicial das implicações jurídicas que resultam das experiências que têm lugar nos DTI.
LA EXPRESIÓN IMPROPIA DE LA LEY Y LA FORMA DEL DERECHO
Authors: Gutiérrez Oloco Rodrigo
Published: May 2018

O presente artigo pretende encontrar, a partir da análise conceitual do trabalho, qual é a solução que Fernando Atria dá em "A Forma do Direito" aos dois problemas colocados pela indevida expressão da lei. Em relação ao problema institucional, são os juízes que devem ajustar os casos de expressão imprópria, e fazê-lo é a maneira paradigmática de exercer jurisdição. Em relação ao problema epistêmico, Atria não tem resposta, o que faz com que seu modelo de juiz não possa identificar casos de expressão imprópria quando apresentados a ele. Isso leva ao fato de que, de fato, a jurisdição atria não pode não colapsar com o conceito de legislação. No documento, propõe-se, a partir da perspectiva institucional, quebrar a idéia de aplicabilidade da lei em duas facetas, aplicabilidade formal e aplicabilidade institucional. Além disso, em relação ao problema epistêmico, é postulado um critério para a identificação de uma expressão imprópria com base na violação de princípios legais.
Comparative digestive physiology of archosaurs with notes on bird origins
Authors: Bajdek Piotr
Published: May 2018

It is widely accepted that birds evolved from theropod dinosaurs, and few paleontologists disagree preferring a more ancient split of the avian and dinosaur lineages. The difference in digestive physiology between members of the theropod and crocodile lineages, documented by fossil feces and gut contents, offers an opportunity to test these phylogenetic hypotheses. Birds share with crocodiles the functional gizzard that contains swallowed stones and where gastric pellets are formed before regurgitation, as well as a mechanism that prevents the passage of indigestible residues into the intestine. Both these adaptations are missing in unquestionable theropod groups (compsognathids, tyrannosaurids, allosaurids, coelophysids). The theropod ancestry of birds implies reappearance and strong development of a specific stomach functionality that either had been already lost in the theropod dinosaurs or was never present in their lineage. Coprolites of early archosaurs contain undigested bones, which suggests a short digestion time and higher metabolic rates than in extant crocodiles. Early archosaurs were similar to birds, but not to dinosaurs, in all these aspects of physiology.
Population dynamic between vulnerable coastal jaguars (Panthera onca) and endangered green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas) in Tortuguero National Park, Costa Rica.
Authors: Butera Stephanie , Restrepo Jaime
Published: May 2018

New-born sea turtles face a number of predators between the time the mothers lay eggs on the beach to when the hatchlings grow into larger juveniles. Nest depredation impacts reproductive success of nesting sea turtles, reducing the number of new turtles that make it to the sea. On Tortuguero beach nest predators include; dogs, coati, and raccoons. Nest depredation within Tortuguero National Park (TNP) has decreased dramatically since 1979. This decrease in nest depredation is linked to the increased jaguar population within TNP as the aforementioned species are considered the jaguars natural prey. Although jaguars prey on nesting turtles, they also control the populations of nest predators. Even more, jaguars have been demonstrated to change their behaviour to suit their preference in prey species therefore the nest predator distribution in TNP was examined to investigate whether changes in jaguar prey preference had an effect. Nest predation and the number of adult turtles lost to jaguar depredation were examined to determine the significance of the threat jaguars pose to the sea turtle population. This study investigates the predator prey relationship between jaguars, nest predators, and nesting female sea turtles; aiming to assessing the impact that jaguars have on the turtle's population.
Moderate thinning increases soil nitrogen in a Larix principis-rupprechtii (Pinaceae) plantations
Authors: Ma Junyong , Han Hairong , Zhang Wenwen , Cheng Xiaoqin
Published: May 2018

Changes in the concentration of soil N or its components of the soil may directly affect forestry ecosystem functioning. Thinning of forest stands, a widely used forestry management practice, may transform soil nutrients directly by altering the soil environment, or indirectly by changing above- or belowground plant biomass. The study objectives were to determine how tree stem density affects the soil N pool and what mechanisms drive any potential changes. In this study, N and its active components were measured beneath a Larix principis-rupprechtii plantation across two entire growing season and under 12 25*25m plots: LT (low thinning forests, removal of 15% of the trees, three plot repetitions), MT (35% removal) and HT (50% removal) and contrast: CK (no thinning control). The environmental index like the light condition, soil reoperation, soil temperatures and prescription was measured in the plots. Results indicated that STN (soil total nitrogen) was affected by tree stem density adjustments in short-term, STN generally increased with decreasing tree stem density, reaching its highest concentration in the MT treatment before decreasing in HT; this pattern was echoed by DON/STN (DON, dissolve organic nitrogen), under MT, a lower DON/STN was measured across the seasons; and MBN (microbial biomass nitrogen) and the SOC/STN (SOC, soil organic carbon) ratios, density treatments had an influence on MBN concentration and inhibited SOC/STN (SOC, soil organic carbon). MT tended to accumulate more STN and produce lower DON/STN and generally higher microbial activity, which may be partly ascribed to the higher MBN value, MBN/STN ratio and lower DON/STN; and the water condition (water content, surface runoff and sediment loads) and light and soil temperatures may partly be responsible to the N pool dynamic in the different density treatments.
Calibration of the E3SM Land Model Using Surrogate‐Based Global Optimization
Authors: Lu Dan , Ricciuto Daniel , Stoyanov Miroslav , Gu Lianhong
Published: May 2018

Calibration of the Energy Exascale Earth System Model (E3SM), land model (ELMv0) is challenging because of its model complexity, strong model nonlinearity, and significant computational requirements. Therefore, only a limited number of simulations can be allowed in any attempt to find a near‐optimal solution within an affordable time. The goal of this study is to calibrate some of the ELMv0 parameters to improve model projection of carbon fluxes. We propose a computationally efficient global optimization procedure using sparse‐grid based surrogates. We first use advanced sparse grid (SG) interpolation to construct a surrogate system of the ELMv0, and then calibrate the surrogate model in the optimization process. As the surrogate model is a polynomial whose evaluation is fast, it can be efficiently evaluated a sufficiently large number of times in the optimization, which facilitates the global search. We calibrate eight parameters against five years of net ecosystem exchange, total leaf area index, and latent heat flux data from the U.S. Missouri Ozark flux tower. The calibrated model is then used for predicting the three variables in the following 4 years. The results indicate that an accurate surrogate model can be created for the ELMv0 with a relatively small number of SG points, i.e., a few ELMv0 simulations that can be fully parallel. And, the application of the optimized parameters leads to a better model performance and a higher predictive capability than the default parameter values in the ELMv0.
Target position reproducibility in left‐breast irradiation with deep inspiration breath‐hold using multiple optical surface control points
Authors: Fassi Aurora , Ivaldi Giovanni B. , de Fatis Paola Tabarelli , Liotta Marco , Meaglia Ilaria , Porcu Patrizia , Regolo Lea , Riboldi Marco , Baroni Guido
Published: May 2018

The aim of this study was to investigate the use of 3D optical localization of multiple surface control points for deep inspiration breath‐hold (DIBH) guidance in left‐breast radiotherapy treatments. Ten left‐breast cancer patients underwent whole‐breast DIBH radiotherapy controlled by the Real‐time Position Management (RPM) system. The reproducibility of the tumor bed (i.e., target) was assessed by the position of implanted clips, acquired through in‐room kV imaging. Six to eight passive fiducials were positioned on the patients' thoraco‐abdominal surface and localized intrafractionally by means of an infrared 3D optical tracking system. The point‐based registration between treatment and planning fiducials coordinates was applied to estimate the interfraction variations in patients' breathing baseline and to improve target reproducibility. The RPM‐based DIBH control resulted in a 3D error in target reproducibility of 5.8 ± 3.4 mm (median value ± interquartile range) across all patients. The reproducibility errors proved correlated with the interfraction baseline variations, which reached 7.7 mm for the single patient. The contribution of surface fiducials registration allowed a statistically significant reduction (p < 0.05) in target localization errors, measuring 3.4 ± 1.7 mm in 3D. The 3D optical monitoring of multiple surface control points may help to optimize the use of the RPM system for improving target reproducibility in left‐breast DIBH irradiation, providing insights on breathing baseline variations and increasing the robustness of external surrogates for DIBH guidance.
Patients With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Show an Increased Arterial Stiffness That is Predicted by IgM Anti–β2‐Glycoprotein I and Small Dense High‐Density Lipoprotein Particles
Authors: Parra Sandra , Lopez‐Dupla Miguel , Ibarretxe Daiana , de las Heras Mercedes , Amigó Nuria , Català Alba , Benavent Marc , Garcés Esperanza , Navarro Alvaro , Castro Antoni
Published: May 2018

Objective

To investigate the metabolic and immunologic factors associated with the presence of central arterial stiffness as measured by the augmentation index (AIx).

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional study of 69 female patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) compared with a control group of 34 healthy women. The anthropometrical variables, the vascular studies, and the analytic data were obtained the same day. The AIx was assessed by peripheral arterial tonometry. The analysis of lipoprotein populations was performed using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy.

Results

Arterial stiffness was increased in patients with SLE compared with control subjects (mean ± SD 20.30 ± 21.54% versus 10.84 ± 11.51%; P = 0.0021). Values for the AIx were correlated with the Framingham risk score (r = 0.481, P < 0.001), carotid intima‐media thickness (r = 0.503, P < 0.001), systolic blood pressure (r = 0.270, P < 0.001), and age (r = 0.365, P < 0.001). Patients receiving antimalarial drugs had a lower AIx (mean ± SD 11.74 ± 11.28% versus 24.97 ± 20.63%; P = 0.024). The AIx was correlated with the atherogenic lipoproteins analyzed by NMR. The immunologic variables associated with the AIx were C4 (r = 0.259, P = 0.046) and IgM anti–β2‐glycoprotein I (IgM anti‐β2GPI) (r = 0.284, P = 0.284). In the multivariate analysis, age (β = 0.347, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 0.020–0.669, P = 0.035), IgM β2GPI (β = 0.321, 95% CI 0.024–0.618, P = 0.035) and small dense high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) particles (β = 1.288, 95% CI 0.246–2.329, P = 0.017) predicted the AIx.

Conclusion

SLE patients had increased arterial stiffness compared with healthy control subjects. Arterial stiffness was decreased in patients treated with antimalarial drugs. Age, IgM β2GPI, and the number of small dense HDL particles predicted the AIx.
Novel Approach to Estimate Osteoarthritis Progression: Use of the Reliable Change Index in the Evaluation of Joint Space Loss
Authors: Parsons Camille M. , Judge Andrew , Leyland Kirsten , Bruyère Olivier , Petit Dop Florence , Chapurlat Roland , Reginster Jean‐Yves , Edwards Mark H. , Dennison Elaine M. , Cooper Cyrus , Inskip Hazel ,   the SEKOIA Study Group
Published: May 2018

Objective

Osteoarthritis‐related changes in joint space measurements over time are small and sensitive to measurement error. The Reliable Change Index (RCI) determines whether the magnitude of change observed in an individual can be attributed to true change. This study aimed to examine the RCI as a novel approach to estimating osteoarthritis progression.

Methods

Data were from 167 men and 392 women with knee osteoarthritis (diagnosed using the American College of Rheumatology criteria) randomized to the placebo arm of the 3‐year Strontium Ranelate Efficacy in Knee Osteoarthritis trial (SEKOIA) and assessed annually. The RCI was used to determine whether the magnitude of change in joint space width (JSW) on radiographs between study years was likely to be true or due to measurement error.

Results

Between consecutive years, 57–69% of participants had an apparent decrease (change <0) in JSW, while 31–43% of participants had annual changes indicating improvement in JSW. The RCI identified JSW decreases in only 6.0% of patients between baseline and year 1, and in 4.5% of patients between the remaining study years. The apparent increases in JSW were almost eliminated between baseline and year 1, and between years 1 and 2 only 1.3% of patients had a significant increase, dropping to 0.9% between years 2 and 3.

Conclusion

The RCI provides a method to identify change in JSW, removing many apparent changes that are likely to be due to measurement error. This method appears to be useful for assessing change in JSW from radiographs in clinical and research settings.
Real‐time cycling cadence estimation via wheel speed measurement
Authors: Rallo Gianmarco , Formentin Simone , Corno Matteo , Savaresi Sergio M
Published: May 2018

The need to reduce emissions and improve mobility in overcrowded cities is promoting the use of bicycles as transportation means. Bicycles have a small footprint, are easy to use, and cost effective. The introduction of modern electric bicycles has also widened the user base, extending the reach of bicycles as a commuter's option. Electric bicycles, in order to meet regulation standards, need sensors that are not usually available on muscular bicycles, like torque or cadence sensors. In this paper, we develop a cadence estimation strategy based on the wheel speed encoder only, thus allowing to remove the cadence sensor. Specifically, we propose 2 approaches, ie, a direct cadence estimate and an indirect one via gear ratio estimate. Both estimation problems are shown to be equivalent to a frequency tracking problem, which can be solved by Kalman filtering. The final algorithm embeds a logic supervisor that guarantees the reliability of the procedure in all working conditions, including freewheeling. The whole analysis and development are based upon a thorough experimental campaign using an instrumented bicycle.
Strain Rate Dependence of Tensile Properties of Extruded Mg–9Y–3Zn–1Mn Alloy
Authors: Zhang Xiaoru , Wang Zehui , Jiang Yue , Sun Guixun , Jiang Zhonghao , Che Chaojie , Bi Guangli , Liu Jiaan , Wang Wenquan , Fang Daqing
Published: May 2018

Tensile mechanical properties of an extruded Mg–9Y–3Zn–1Mn alloy are investigated at a wide range of strain rates. It is demonstrated that the tensile ductility of the alloy exhibits a pronounced strain rate dependence, while its tensile strength is less sensitive to strain rate. As strain rate decreases from to , the yield and ultimate tensile strengths of the alloy only decrease by 13% and 7% (from 237 and 320 MPa to 206 and 295 MPa), while its uniform and total elongations increase by 173% and 176% (from 10.12% and 11.53% to 27.62% and 29.32%), respectively. The results of the above tensile tests are analyzed by the characterizations of microstructure and morphologies of deformation surface and the measurements of strain hardening rate and strain rate sensitivity. It reveals that the less sensitive strain rate dependence of the tensile strengths arises from the reversed contributions of the precipitation strengthening role and the softening role caused by the grain boundary (GB) deformation; the pronounced strain rate dependence of the tensile ductility is attributed to the enhanced stress relaxation role of the GB deformation and the high deformation accomodation capability caused by the long period stacking ordered (LPSO) phase and stacking faults (SFs).
Anisotropic Saturable and Excited‐State Absorption in Bulk ReS2
Authors: Meng Xianghai , Zhou Yongjian , Chen Ke , Roberts Richard H. , Wu Wenzhi , Lin Jung‐Fu , Chen Ray T. , Xu Xiaochuan , Wang Yaguo
Published: May 2018

The intensity‐scan (I‐scan) technique to study the polarization‐dependent, nonlinear processes in exfoliated bulk ReS2 is utilized. The polarization‐dependent reflection and transmission of ReS2, from which the absorption coefficients are extracted using the transfer matrix method, are measured. Absorption coefficients under high laser peak power show a transition from saturable absorption (SA) to reverse saturable absorption when rotating the laser polarization with respect to the b‐axis. It is found that SA and excited‐state absorption (ESA) contribute to the nonlinear optical processes. Both the SA and ESA show strong dependence on the polarization angle, which is attributed to the anisotropic optical transition probability and electronic band structure in ReS2. The anisotropic nonlinear optical properties of ReS2 may find applications as saturable absorbers in lasers and optical modulators.
Solution‐Processed Aluminum Nanogratings for Wire Grid Polarizers
Authors: Kang Juhoon , Yun Hae‐Su , Jang Hyun‐Ik , Kim Junho , Park Jae Hong , Lee Jung‐Yong
Published: May 2018

The wire grid polarizer (WGP) consisting of parallel metal nanogratings is an attractive alternative to conventional polarizers because it offers thin layer thickness, easy integration capability, and outstanding chemical and thermal stability. In this report, a facile solution process is proposed for fabricating Al WGPs. High‐aspect‐ratio Al nanostructures are formed in a 1D nanoimprinted template by electroless plating. Because of the geometrically irreversible deposition and wet etching processes on the nanotemplate, only the embedded Al nanogratings are retained. The solution‐processed Al nanostructured WGP with a line width of 60 nm and a height of 150 nm exhibits an average extinction ratio of 104 and transmittance of 52.3% in the visible wavelengths.
Conducting Polymer Electrocatalysts for Proton‐Coupled Electron Transfer Reactions: Toward Organic Fuel Cells with Forest Fuels
Authors: Che Canyan , Vagin Mikhail , Wijeratne Kosala , Zhao Dan , Warczak Magdalena , Jonsson Magnus P. , Crispin Xavier
Published: May 2018

Lignin is one of the most abundant biopolymers, constituting 25% of plants. The pulp and paper industries extract lignin in their process and today seek new applications for this by‐product. Here, it is reported that the aromatic alcohols obtained from lignin depolymerization can be used as fuel in high power density electrical power sources. This study shows that the conducting polymer poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene), fabricated from abundant elements via low temperature synthesis, enables efficient, direct, and reversible chemical‐to‐electrical energy conversion of aromatic alcohols such as lignin residues in aqueous media. A material operation principle related to the relatively high molecular diffusion and ionic conductivity within the conducting polymer matrix, ensuring efficient uptake of protons in the course of proton‐coupled electron transfers between organic molecules is proposed.
Potential of B/Al‐Doped Silicene Electrodes in Na/K‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhu Jiajie , Gandi Appala Naidu , Schwingenschlögl Udo
Published: May 2018

Metal‐ion batteries are key for energy storage in both portable electronics and large‐scale applications. As the ion capacity of the widely used graphite electrodes is limited, 2D materials, in particular silicene, are considered for possible replacement. Here, the effects of B/Al doping on the ion capacity of silicene are studied and it is demonstrated that complex charge transfer leads to ultra‐high Na capacity. Low Na/K diffusion barriers open potential for fast charge and discharge.
Inorganic CsPb1−xSnxIBr2 for Efficient Wide‐Bandgap Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Li Nan , Zhu Zonglong , Li Jiangwei , Jen Alex K.‐Y. , Wang Liduo
Published: May 2018

Recently, the stability of organic–inorganic perovskite thin films under thermal, photo, and moisture stresses has become a major concern for further commercialization due to the high volatility of the organic cations in the prototype perovskite composition (CH3NH3PbI3). All inorganic cesium (Cs) based perovskite is an alternative to avoid the release or decomposition of organic cations. Moreover, substituting Pb with Sn in the organic–inorganic lead halide perovskites has been demonstrated to narrow the bandgap to 1.2–1.4 eV for high‐performance perovskite solar cells. In this work, a series of CsPb1−xSnxIBr2 perovskite alloys via one‐step antisolvent method is demonstrated. These perovskite films present tunable bandgaps from 2.04 to 1.64 eV. Consequently, the CsPb0.75Sn0.25IBr2 with homogeneous and densely crystallized morphology shows a remarkable power conversion efficiency of 11.53% and a high Voc of 1.21 V with a much improved phase stability and illumination stability. This work provides a possibility for designing and synthesizing novel inorganic halide perovskites as the next generation of photovoltaic materials.
Targeting Bruton's tyrosine kinase for the treatment of B cell associated malignancies and autoimmune diseases: Preclinical and clinical developments of small molecule inhibitors
Authors: Zhang Zhen , Zhang Daoguang , Liu Yang , Yang Dezhi , Ran Fansheng , Wang Michael L. , Zhao Guisen
Published: May 2018

B cell receptor (BCR) signaling plays a key role in B cell development and function. Aberrant BCR signaling has been confirmed as a central driver for the pathogenesis of various B cell malignancies. Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) is a vital component of BCR signaling and exhibits overexpression in various B cell leukemias and lymphomas. Inhibiting BTK has been proved as an efficient way for B cell malignancy intervention. Remarkable achievements have been made in the pursuit of selective BTK inhibitors, represented by the success of the irreversible BTK inhibitors, ibrutinib and acalabrutinib. Constantly emerging agents exhibiting superior efficacy and safety in preclinical and clinical studies provide promising therapeutics for the treatment of B cell malignancies.
Solvents Effects on Film Morphologies and Memory Behavior of a Perylenediimide‐Containing Pendent Polymer
Authors: Wang Ming , Zhang Qi‐jian , Li Zhuang , Li Hua , Lu Jian‐Mei
Published: May 2018

The large polydispersity index of functional pendant polymers has hindered their application in semiconductors. Herein, a novel pendant polymer with perylenediimide (PDI) in the side chains was successfully synthesized through ring‐opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP) with a very low polydispersity index. The synthesized polymers were spin‐coated on indium tin oxide (ITO) substrate by using a mixture of 1,2‐dichlorobenzene (o‐DCB) and methanol (MeOH) solvents. The surface morphologies and intermolecular π–π stacking of the fabricated film could be adjusted through tuning of the ratio of o‐DCB and MeOH, and thus, the sandwich‐structured device of ITO/polymer/aluminum exhibited different electrical behavior. The threshold voltages of the devices decreased as the MeOH content was increased from 0 to 30 % (v/v); however, the device changed from being unrewritable to rewritable if the MeOH content was increased to 40 %; a probable mechanism for this process is discussed. It is hoped that this new idea of synthesizing narrow polydispersity index pendant polymers, and the fabrication of high‐quality films through the use of a mixture of solvents could allow high‐performance memory devices to be prepared in the future.
A General Palladium–Phosphine Complex To Explore Aryl Tosylates in the N‐Arylation of Amines: Scope and Limitations
Authors: Choy Pui Ying , Chung Kin Ho , Yang Qingjing , So Chau Ming , Sun Raymond Wai‐Yin , Kwong Fuk Yee
Published: May 2018

The scope and limitations of the monoselective N‐arylation of various amines by using aryl and hetaryl tosylates are presented. The air‐stable and easily accessible Pd(OAc)2/CM‐phos {CM‐phos=2‐[2‐(dicyclohexylphosphino)phenyl]‐1‐methyl‐1H‐indole}catalyst system was able to deal with a wide range of aryl tosylate substrates as well as amine nucleophiles, including primary and secondary cyclic/acyclic aliphatic amines and anilines. NH‐Bearing heterocycles such as indole, carbazole, pyrrole, 10‐phenothiazine, and 10‐phenoxazine were shown to be feasible coupling partners under this catalytic system. The described reaction conditions tolerate a wide range of functional groups and allow an array of aromatic amines as well as unsymmetrical amine products to be easily accessed from the various phenolic derivatives. Interestingly, this catalyst system even offers the opportunity to perform the reaction in water medium. We also report the intermolecular coupling of optically active α‐central chiral amines with aryl tosylates without erosion of the enantiomeric purity.
A Defined and Flexible Pocket Explains Aryl Substrate Promiscuity of the Cahuitamycin Starter Unit–Activating Enzyme CahJ
Authors: Tripathi Ashootosh , Park Sung Ryeol , Sikkema Andrew P. , Cho Hyo Je , Wu Jianfeng , Lee Brian , Xi Chuanwu , Smith Janet L. , Sherman David H.
Published: May 2018

Cahuitamycins are biofilm inhibitors assembled by a convergent nonribosomal peptide synthetase pathway. Previous genetic analysis indicated that a discrete enzyme, CahJ, serves as a gatekeeper for cahuitamycin structural diversification. Here, the CahJ protein was probed structurally and functionally to guide the formation of new analogues by mutasynthetic studies. This analysis enabled the in vivo production of a new cahuitamycin congener through targeted precursor incorporation.
Anion–π Interaction‐Induced Room‐Temperature Phosphorescence of a Polyoxometalate‐Based Charge‐Transfer Hybrid Material
Authors: Liao Jian‐Zhen , Meng Lingyi , Jia Ji‐Hui , Liang Dong , Chen Xu‐Lin , Yu Rong‐Min , Kuang Xiao‐Fei , Lu Can‐Zhong
Published: May 2018

Room‐temperature phosphorescence (RTP) was realized for the first time in a polyoxometalate‐based charge‐transfer (CT) hybrid material bearing polyoxometalates (POMs) as electron‐donors (D) and rigid naphthalene diimides (NDIs) as electron‐acceptors (A), meanwhile, this hybrid material displayed photochromism as well. The significant D‐A anion–π interaction induced an additional through‐space charge‐transfer pathway. The resulting suitable D‐A CT states can efficiently bridge the relatively large energy gap between the NDI‐localized 1π–π* and 3π–π* states and thus trigger the ligand‐localized phosphorescence (3π–π*).
Mechanically Induced Shaping of Organic Single Crystals: Facile Fabrication of Fluorescent and Elastic Crystal Fibers
Authors: Hayashi Shotaro , Koizumi Toshio
Published: May 2018

Mechanically induced shaping (i.e., top‐down processing) of organic single crystals is an undeveloped area of research because applying stress to such nonflexible crystalline materials generally causes them to disintegrate. Herein, we present a mechanically induced splitting phenomenon of elastic organic single crystals, and study on a facile shaping processing method of centimeter‐scale elastic organic single crystal of fluorescent π‐conjugated molecule into various fine crystal fibers (thickness: ≈50 μm; width: ≈150 μm; length: ≈25 mm). The fibers produced maintained their original crystal structure and properties (i.e., fluorescence efficiency and elastic flexibility).
Simulation and Experiment of the Homogeneously Catalyzed Production of Terpenyl Amine
Authors: Schulz Robin , Sengen Laura , Gießelmann Katja , Hunold Sira , Zeiner Tim
Published: May 2018

Continuous terpenyl amine production via a homogeneously catalyzed hydroamination is presented. For the recycling of the catalyst a liquid‐liquid system combined with a subsequent acid complexation as capturing step for the terpenyl amine was used. The whole process was run in pilot plant scale. At first, batch experiments were conducted to determine reaction equilibria of the hydroamination and the acid complexation. On this, a process model was developed which is based on equilibrium stages. This process model was validated by running the continuous process and was able to predict the continuous process in good agreement with experimental data. So, it allows a reduction of the experimental effort.
Identification of Broad‐Spectrum Dengue/Zika Virus Replication Inhibitors by Functionalization of Quinoline and 2,6‐Diaminopurine Scaffolds
Authors: Kaptein Suzanne J. F. , Vincetti Paolo , Crespan Emmanuele , Rivera Jorge I. Armijos , Costantino Gabriele , Maga Giovanni , Neyts Johan , Radi Marco
Published: May 2018

Social and demographic changes across the world over the past 50 years have resulted in significant outbreaks of arboviruses such as dengue virus (DENV) and Zika virus (ZIKV). Despite the increased threat of infection, no approved drugs or fully protective vaccines are available to counteract the spread of DENV and ZIKV. The development of “broad‐spectrum” antivirals (BSAs) that target common components of multiple viruses can be a more effective strategy to limit the rapid emergence of viral pathogens than the classic “one‐bug/one‐drug” approach. Starting from previously identified multitarget DENV inhibitors, herein we report the identification of novel 2,6‐diaminopurine derivatives that are able to block the replication of both Zika virus and all serotypes of dengue virus (DENV 1–4) in infected cells.
Conditional relative survival among long‐term survivors of adolescent and young adult cancers
Authors: Anderson Chelsea , Smitherman Andrew B. , Nichols Hazel B.
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND

Many studies have examined long‐term outcomes after childhood cancer, but few address outcomes for adolescent and young adult (AYA; those aged 15‐39 years) cancer survivors. Conditional survival reflects changing mortality risk with time since cancer diagnosis and is a useful measure for planning long‐term follow‐up care.

METHODS

Using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results registry 9 database, the authors identified a cohort of AYA patients diagnosed with a first malignant cancer between 1973 and 2009 and followed through 2014. They estimated 5‐year relative survival at the time of diagnosis and at each additional year survived up to 25 years after diagnosis, conditional on the individual being alive at the beginning of that year.

RESULTS

A total of 205,954 AYA patients with cancer were identified. Thyroid cancer, melanoma, testicular cancer, breast cancer, lymphoma, leukemia, and central nervous system (CNS) tumors comprised 67% of all cancers. For all cancers combined, 5‐year relative survival was 84.5% (95% confidence interval, 84.3%‐84.7%) at 1 year after diagnosis and 94.0% (95% CI, 93.9%‐94.2%) at 5 years. The relative survival first exceeded 95%, reflecting minimal excess mortality compared with the general population, at 7 years. Patients with thyroid cancer, testicular cancer, melanoma, and breast cancer reached a relative survival of >95% at the time of diagnosis and at 1, 3, and 18 years after diagnosis, respectively. Estimates for those with Hodgkin lymphoma and leukemia were >95% at 6 and 13 years, respectively, but declined to <95% at 20 years. AYA individuals with CNS tumors did not reach 95% by 25 years after diagnosis.

CONCLUSIONS

For AYA survivors of breast cancer, CNS tumors, and hematologic malignancies, long‐term excess mortality should be considered when planning follow‐up care. Cancer 2018;124:3037‐43. © 2018 American Cancer Society.
Topology optimization of fusiform muscles with a maximum contraction
Authors: Chen Qi , Zhang Xianmin , Zhu Benliang
Published: May 2018

Understanding the optimal designs in nature is critical in bionics. This paper presents a method for designing the configuration of fusiform muscle with a maximum contractile displacement based on topology optimization methods. A nearly incompressible continuum constitutive model of skeletal muscle is utilized. The contractile displacement from the relaxed state to the contracted state is regarded as the objective function. To handle the numerical difficulties that result from the existence of element density, an energy interpolation equation is employed, and a modification of the constitutive model of skeletal muscle is proposed. Several numerical examples are given to demonstrate the reasonability of the proposed method.