bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Emergency Medicine Resident Shift Work Preferences: A Comparison of Resident Scheduling Preferences and Recommended Schedule Design for Shift Workers
Authors: Rischall Megan L. , Chung Arlene S. , Tabatabai Ramin , Doty Christopher , Hart Danielle
Published: May 2018

Background

Shift work can negatively impact an individual's health, wellness, and quality of work. Optimal schedule design can mitigate some of these effects. The American College of Emergency Physicians has published schedule design guidelines to increase wellness and longevity in the field, but these guidelines are difficult to apply to emergency medicine (EM) residents given their high shift burdens and other scheduling constraints. Little is known is known about EM resident scheduling preferences or ideal schedule design in the context of residency training.

Objectives

The objectives were to determine whether EM resident schedule design preferences are consistent with current scheduling guidelines for shift workers and to gather information on scheduling practices that are important to residents.

Methods

We surveyed residents at four allopathic EM residency programs and assessed residents’ preferences on various schedule design features including shift length, circadian scheduling, night shift scheduling, and impact of schedule design on personal wellness.

Results

Of the 144 residents surveyed, 98% of residents felt that their shift schedule was a key factor in their overall wellness. Residents agreed with shift work guidelines regarding the importance of circadian scheduling (65% favorable), although rated the ability to request a day off and have a full weekend off as more important (84 and 78% favorable responses, respectively). Recommended guidelines promote shorter shifts, but only 24% of residents preferred 8‐hour shifts compared to 57, 71, and 43% of residents preferring 9‐, 10‐, and 12‐hour shifts, respectively. Sixty‐seven percent of residents preferred their nights to be scheduled in one sequence per 4‐week period, a night scheduling strategy most at odds with recommended guidelines.

Conclusions

Emergency medicine resident scheduling preferences are not universally consistent with shift work guidelines, likely due to the distinct circumstances of residency training. Residents identify schedule design as a significant factor in their overall wellness.
Piepkorn type of osteochondrodysplasia: Defining the severe end of FLNB‐related skeletal disorders in three fetuses and a 106‐year‐old exhibit
Authors: Rehder Helga , Laccone Franco , Kircher Susanne G. , Schild Ralf L. , Rapp Christiane , Bald Rainer , Schulze Bernt , Behunova Jana , Neesen Juergen , Schoner Katharina
Published: May 2018

The Piepkorn type of lethal osteochondrodysplasia (POCD) is a rare and lethal dwarfing condition. Four cases have been reported to date. The characteristic features are distinctly shortened “flipper‐like” limbs, polysyndactyly, excessive underossification, especially of the limb bones and vertebrae, and large (giant) chondrocytes in the cartilaginous bone primordia. These characteristics allowed the diagnosis of Piepkorn type of osteochondrodysplasia in four new cases, three fetuses of 15 to 22 weeks and one 106‐year‐old museum exhibit. Piepkorn type of osteochondrodysplasia has been assigned to the giant cell chondrodysplasias such as atelosteogenesis type 1 (AO1) and boomerang dysplasia (BD). Analysis of the Filamin B gene in 3p14.3, which is associated with these disorders, allowed the identification of the first FLNB mutations in Piepkorn type of osteochondrodysplasia. The heterozygous missense mutations, found in the three fetuses, were located in exons 28 and 29, encoding the immunoglobulin‐like repeat region R15, one of three mutational hot spots in dominant FLNB‐related skeletal disorders. Direct preparations and alcian blue staining revealed single upper and lower arm and leg bone primordia, preaxial oligodactyly, and polysyndactyly with complete fusion and doubling of the middle and end phalanges II–V to produce eight distal finger rays. Considering the unique clinical features and the extent of underossification, Piepkorn type of osteochondrodysplasia can be regarded as a distinct entity within the AO1‐BD‐POCD continuum.
Efficient Synthesis and Properties of [1]Benzothieno[3,2‐b]thieno[2,3‐d]furans and [1]Benzothieno[3,2‐b]thieno[2,3‐d]thiophenes
Authors: Kurimoto Yuji , Mitsudo Koichi , Mandai Hiroki , Wakamiya Atsushi , Murata Yasujiro , Mori Hiroki , Nishihara Yasushi , Suga Seiji
Published: May 2018

Efficient syntheses of benzodithienofuran (BDTF; [1]benzothieno[3,2‐b]thieno[2,3‐d]furan) and benzodithienothiophene (BDTT; [1]benzothieno[3,2‐b]thieno[2,3‐d]thiophene) were achieved by the combination of an addition‐elimination reaction, reduction, and Pd‐catalyzed dehydrogenative cyclization. We also achieved the synthesis of π‐extended BDTF and BDTT derivatives through the use of coupling reactions. The detailed physical properties of these compounds were investigated. The newly synthesized BDTFs exhibited strong fluorescence compared with BDTTs. 2,2′‐Bis([1]benzothieno[3,2‐b]thieno[2,3‐d]furan) (BBTTF) exhibited p‐type organic field‐effect transistor (OFET) properties.
MnI/AgI‐Kaskadenkatalyse: spurlose diazoassistierte C(sp2)‐H/C(sp3)‐H‐Kupplung für β‐(Hetero)aryl‐/β‐Alkenylketone
Authors: Lu Qingquan , Mondal Shobhan , Cembellín Sara , Glorius Frank
Published: May 2018

Eine neuartige MnI/AgI‐kaskadenkatalysierte C(sp2)‐H/C(sp3)‐H‐Kupplung von (Vinyl)arenen mit α‐Diazoketonen wurde entwickelt, wobei die Diazogruppe als ein spurloses Hilfsmittel zur Kontrolle der Regioselektivität genutzt wurde. Anspruchsvolle β‐(Hetero)aryl‐/β‐Alkenylketone wurden über diese operativ einfache Methode erhalten. Die Kaskadenreaktion umfasst die N2‐Abspaltung, Carbenumlagerung, C‐H‐Aktivierung und Hydroarylierung/Hydroalkenylierung. Die Robustheit dieser Methode wurde im präparativen Maßstab gezeigt und auf die Diversifizierung von Naturstoffen angewendet.
Genome Mining and Comparative Biosynthesis of Meroterpenoids from Two Phylogenetically Distinct Fungi
Authors: Zhang Xuan , Wang Ting Ting , Xu Qin Lan , Xiong Ying , Zhang Li , Han Hao , Xu Kuang , Guo Wen Jie , Xu Qiang , Tan Ren Xiang , Ge Hui Ming
Published: May 2018

Two homologous meroterpenoid gene clusters consisting of contiguous genes encoding polyketide synthase (PKS), prenyltransferase (PT), terpenoid cyclase (TC) and other tailoring enzymes were identified from two phylogenetically distinct fungi through computational analysis. Media optimization guided by reverse‐transcription PCR (RT‐PCR) enabled two strains to produce eight new and two known meroterpenoids (1–10). Using gene inactivation, heterologous expression, and biochemical analyses, we revealed a new polyketide‐terpenoid assembly line that utilizes a pair of PKSs to synthesize 2,4‐dihydroxy‐6‐alkylbenzoic acid, followed by oxidative decarboxylation, farnesyl transfer, and terpene cyclization to construct the meroterpenoid scaffold. In addition, two of the isolated meroterpenoids (3 and 17 d) showed immunosuppressive bioactivity. Our work reveals a new strategy for meroterpenoid natural products discovery, and reveals the biosynthetic pathway for compounds 1–10.
Whole‐Cell Biotransformation of Benzene to Phenol Catalysed by Intracellular Cytochrome P450BM3 Activated by External Additives
Authors: Karasawa Masayuki , Stanfield Joshua Kyle , Yanagisawa Sota , Shoji Osami , Watanabe Yoshihito
Published: May 2018

An Escherichia coli whole‐cell biocatalyst for the direct hydroxylation of benzene to phenol has been developed. By adding amino acid derivatives as decoy molecules to the culture medium, wild‐type cytochrome P450BM3 (P450BM3) expressed in E.coli can be activated and non‐native substrates hydroxylated, without supplementing with NADPH. The yield of phenol reached 59 % when N‐heptyl‐l‐prolyl‐l‐phenylalanine (C7‐Pro‐Phe) was employed as the decoy molecule. It was shown that decoy molecules, especially those lacking fluorination, reached the cytosol of E. coli, thus imparting in vivo catalytic activity for the oxyfunctionalisation of non‐native substrates to intracellular P450BM3.
Reforming the Eastern Australian gas market
Authors: Shi Xunpeng (Roc) , Grafton R. Quentin
Published: May 2018

We analyse the deficiencies behind the Eastern Australian gas market by applying a framework proposed by the International Energy Agency. We show that this gas market has structural weaknesses that include inadequate supplies at hubs; limited pipeline capacity; predominance of long‐term gas supply contracts; deficiencies in design; and difficulties with third party access. We provide five policy actions to help remedy these deficiencies and to help establish a functional gas market. Although our study is limited to Australia, it, nevertheless, provides insights for countries in the Asia Pacific region, which may wish to move towards more competitive gas markets, including trading hubs.
Linking “adaptive efficiency” with the basic market functions: A new analytical perspective for institution and policy analysis
Authors: Song Ligang , Simpson Chérie
Published: May 2018

This conceptual paper develops a new perspective linking the concept of “adaptive efficiency” with the allocative, discovery and creative functions of the market from an institutional perspective. The efficacy of the adaptive efficiency of market functions in improving economic performance is proposed to be measured by changes in transaction costs. This perspective enables an analysis of the independent and interrelated effects of these functions, provides a more complete understanding of entrepreneurial activities and the efficient allocation of resources, better deals with the central problems of economic system and organisation, namely, adaptation and the coordination of knowledge, and has useful implications for public policy.
A Supramolecular Hydrogel Based on Polyglycerol Dendrimer‐Specific Amino Group Recognition
Authors: Cho Ik Sung , Ooya Tooru
Published: May 2018

Dendrimer‐based supramolecular hydrogels have gained attention in biomedical fields. While biocompatible dendrimers were used to prepare hydrogels via physical and/or chemical crosslinking, smart functions such as pH and molecular control remain undeveloped. Here, we present polyglycerol dendrimer‐based supramolecular hydrogel formation induced by a specific interaction between the polyglycerol dendrimer and an amino group of glycol chitosan. Gelation was achieved by mixing the two aqueous solutions. Hydrogel formation was controlled by varying the polyglycerol dendrimer generation. The hydrogel showed pH‐dependent swelling; strongly acidic conditions induced degradation via dissociation of the specific interaction. It also showed unique l‐arginine‐responsive degradation capability due to competitive exchange of the amino groups of glycol chitosan and l‐arginine. These polyglycerol dendrimer‐based supramolecular characteristics allow multimodal application in smart biomaterials.
PdII‐Catalyzed Cascade Synthesis of Chromane Derivatives Initiated by cis‐Chloropalladation or trans‐Acetoxypalladation
Authors: Shukla Rahul K. , Pal Kuntal , Volla Chandra M. R.
Published: May 2018

A highly regio‐ and stereoselective PdII‐catalyzed cascade synthesis of biologically relevant chromane derivatives from easily available enynes was developed under operationally simple conditions. The cascade reaction consists of nucleopalladation of alkynes, insertion of the alkene and protonation. When CuCl2 was employed as nucleophile, a cis‐chloropalladation initiates the cascade. Whereas in the case of AcOH, a trans‐acetoxypalladation takes place.
Enantioselective Alkylation of N‐Arylhydrazones Derived from α‐Keto Esters and Isatin Derivatives through Asymmetric Phase‐Transfer Catalysis
Authors: Kang Qi‐Kai , Selvakumar Sermadurai , Arumugam Natarajan , Almansour Abdulrahman I. , Kumar Raju Suresh , Maruoka Keiji
Published: May 2018

The phase‐transfer‐catalyzed asymmetric alkylation reactions of N‐arylhydrazones derived from α‐keto‐esters and isatin derivatives afford enantioenriched azo compounds that bear a tetra‐substituted carbon stereocenter in good yields with high chemo‐ and enantioselectivity. The alkylation products can be readily converted into chiral amino esters, hydrazine derivatives, and aza‐β‐lactams without loss of enantiopurity.
Drainage network reorganization affecting the Nene and Welland catchments of eastern England as a result of a late Middle Pleistocene glacial advance
Authors: Langford Harry E.
Published: May 2018

Britain's latitude is critical for determining the southerly extent of western European ice sheet expansion. Palaeoclimate and palaeosea‐level reconstruction in Britain, however, is complicated by spatially discontinuous glacigenic deposits and genetic and stratigraphic interpretations have relied on their lithological characteristics. This study adopted a sedimentary facies approach combined with geomorphological analyses for investigating upper Middle Pleistocene deposits in two adjacent catchments: Nene and Welland. Detailed sedimentology determined not only genesis of ice‐contact (Welland) and glaciolacustrine (Nene) deposits but also provided insight on lake surface water levels. The ice‐contact deposits recorded a constant lake level at the same height as alluvial remnants upstream in the Welland valley. These alluvial remnants are located where present tributaries join the Welland, indicating they were formed where influent streams entered a former lake and therefore can be interpreted as fluvial terraces resulting from local baselevel rise. The glaciolacustrine deposits in the Nene valley recorded fluctuating lake levels, indicating that altitudinally separated sand and gravel bodies coincident with these fluctuations and located where influent streams entered the lake also can be interpreted as fluvial terraces, but resulting from fluctuating baselevel. Sand and gravel bodies at the southern end of a dry valley linking the two catchments are interpreted as alluvial fan remnants, and those occurring on interfluves downstream of the alluvial fan remnants as flood deposits emanating from lake overflow. This drainage reorganization probably occurred in marine oxygen isotope stage (MIS) 8, but the ice advance footprint is different to that in MI 6.
Mito‐nuclear discordance across a recent contact zone for California voles
Authors: Lin Dana , Bi Ke , Conroy Christopher J. , Lacey Eileen A. , Schraiber Joshua G. , Bowie Rauri C. K.
Published: May 2018

To examine the processes that maintain genetic diversity among closely related taxa, we investigated the dynamics of introgression across a contact zone between two lineages of California voles (Microtus californicus). We tested the prediction that introgression of nuclear loci would be greater than that for mitochondrial loci, assuming ongoing gene flow across the contact zone. We also predicted that genomic markers would show a mosaic pattern of differentiation across this zone, consistent with genomes that are semi‐permeable. Using mitochondrial cytochromebsequences and genome‐wide loci developed via ddRAD‐seq, we analyzed genetic variation for 10 vole populations distributed along the central California coast; this transect included populations from within the distributions of both parental lineages as well as the putative contact zone. Our analyses revealed that (1) the two lineages examined are relatively young, having diverged ca. 8.5–54 kya, (2) voles from the contact zone in Santa Barbara County did not include F1 or early generation backcrossed individuals, and (3) there appeared to be little to no recurrent gene flow across the contact zone. Introgression patterns for mitochondrial and nuclear markers were not concordant; only mitochondrial markers revealed evidence of introgression, putatively due to historical hybridization. These differences in genetic signatures are intriguing given that the contact zone occurs in a region of continuous vole habitat, with no evidence of past or present physical barriers. Future studies that examine specific isolating mechanisms, such as microhabitat use and mate choice, will facilitate our understanding of how genetic boundaries are maintained in this system.
Selection of the sex‐linked inhibitor of apoptosis in mountain pine beetle (Dendroctonus ponderosae) driven by enhanced expression during early overwintering
Authors: Horianopoulos Linda C. , Boone Celia K. , Samarasekera G. D. N. Gayathri , Kandola Gurkirat K. , Murray Brent W.
Published: May 2018

The mountain pine beetle (Dendroctonus ponderosae) is an insect native to western North America; however, its geographical range has recently expanded north in BC and east into Alberta. To understand the population structure in the areas of expansion, 16 gene‐linked microsatellites were screened and compared to neutral microsatellites using outlier analyses of Fst and Fct values. One sex‐linked gene, inhibitor of apoptosis (IAP), showed a strong signature of positive selection for neo‐X alleles and was analyzed for evidence of adaptive variation. Alleles of IAP were sequenced, and differences between the neo‐X and neo‐Y alleles were consistent with neutral evolution suggesting that the neo‐Y allele may not be under functional constraints. Neo‐Y alleles were amplified from gDNA, but not effectively from cDNA, suggesting that there was little IAP expression from neo‐Y alleles. There were no differences in overall IAP expression between males and females with the common northern neo‐X allele suggesting that the neo‐X allele in males compensates for the reduced expression of neo‐Y alleles. However, males lacking the most common northern neo‐X allele thought to be selected for in northern populations had reduced overall IAP expression in early October—at a time when beetles are preparing for overwintering. This suggests that the most common allele may have more rapid upregulation. The reduced function of neo‐Y alleles of IAP suggested by both sequence differences and lower levels of expression may foster a highly selective environment for neo‐X alleles such as the common northern allele with more efficient upregulation.
Unique maternal and environmental effects on the body morphology of the Least Killifish, Heterandria formosa
Authors: Landy J Alex , Travis Joseph
Published: May 2018

An important step in diagnosing local adaptation is the demonstration that phenotypic variation among populations is at least in part genetically based. To do this, many methods experimentally minimize the environmental effect on the phenotype to elucidate the genetic effect. Minimizing the environmental effect often includes reducing possible environmental maternal effects. However, maternal effects can be an important factor in patterns of local adaptation as well as adaptive plasticity. Here, we report the results of an experiment with males from two populations of the poeciliid fish, Heterandria formosa, designed to examine the relative influence of environmental maternal effects and environmental effects experienced during growth and development on body morphology, and, in addition, whether the balance among those effects is unique to each population. We used a factorial design that varied thermal environment and water chemistry experienced by mothers and thermal environment and water chemistry experienced by offspring. We found substantial differences between the two populations in their maternal and offspring norms of reaction of male body morphology to differences in thermal environment and water chemistry. We also found that the balance between maternal effects and postparturition environmental effects differed from one thermal regime to another and among traits. These results indicate that environmental maternal effects can be decidedly population‐specific and, as a result, might either contribute to the appearance of or blur evidence for local adaptation. These results also suggest that local adaptation might also occur through the evolution of maternal norms of reaction to important, and varying, environmental factors.
Warming delays the phenological sequences of an autumn‐flowering invader
Authors: Peng Yang , Yang Jian‐Xia , Zhou Xiao‐Hui , Peng Pei‐Hao , Li Jing‐Ji , He Wei‐Ming
Published: May 2018

Phenology can play an important role in driving plant invasions; however, little is known about how climate warming, nitrogen (N) deposition, and invasion stages influence the phenological sequences of autumn‐flowering invaders in a subtropical climate. Accordingly, we conducted an experiment to address the effects of experimental warming, N‐addition, and community types on the first inflorescence buds, flowering, seed‐setting, and dieback of invasive Solidago canadensis. Warming delayed the onset of first inflorescence buds, flowering, seed‐setting, and dieback; N‐addition did not influence these four phenophases; community types influenced the onset of first seed‐setting but not the other phenological phases. Seed‐setting was more sensitive to experimental manipulations than the other phenophases. The onset of first inflorescence buds, flowering, and seed‐setting was marginally or significantly correlated with ramet height but not ramet numbers. Our results suggest that future climate warming might delay the phenological sequences of autumn‐flowering invaders and some phenophases can shift with invasion stages.
Stereoselective Synthesis of C1–C7 and C6–C22 Fragments of Phostriecin, Goniothalamines, and Their Analogues
Authors: Purushotham Reddy K. , Vasudeva Reddy D. , Sabitha Gowravaram
Published: May 2018

The stereoselective synthesis of two fragments (C1–C7 and C6–C22) of the anti‐tumor agent phostriecin has been achieved. The chiral hydroxy‐vinyl‐δ‐lactone building block (fragment C1–C7) was subsequently utilized for the synthesis of 5‐hydroxygoniothalamin, 5‐acetoxygoniothalamin, and their derivatives.
Parathyroid hormone‐related peptide activates and modulates TRPV1 channel in human DRG neurons
Authors: Shepherd A.J. , Mickle A.D. , McIlvried L.A. , Gereau R.W. , Mohapatra D.P.
Published: May 2018

Parathyroid hormone‐related peptide (PTHrP) is associated with advanced tumor growth and metastasis, especially in breast, prostate and myeloma cancers that metastasize to bones, resulting in debilitating chronic pain conditions. Our recent studies revealed that the receptor for PTHrP, PTH1R, is expressed in mouse DRG sensory neurons, and its activation leads to flow‐activation and modulation of TRPV1 channel function, resulting in peripheral heat and mechanical hypersensitivity. In order to verify the translatability of our findings in rodents to humans, we explored whether this signalling axis operates in primary human DRG sensory neurons. Analysis of gene expression data from recently reported RNA deep sequencing experiments performed on mouse and human DRGs reveals that PTH1R is expressed in DRG and tibial nerve. Furthermore, exposure of cultured human DRG neurons to PTHrP leads to slow‐sustained activation of TRPV1 and modulation of capsaicin‐induced channel activation. Both activation and modulation of TRPV1 by PTHrP were dependent on PKC activity. Our findings suggest that functional PTHrP/PTH1R‐TRPV1 signalling exists in human DRG neurons, which could contribute to local nociceptor excitation in the vicinity of metastatic bone tumor microenvironment.
Clast abrasion of a rock shore platform on the Atlantic coast of Ireland
Authors: Cullen Niamh Danielle , Bourke Mary Carol
Published: May 2018

The abrasion of coastal rock platforms by individual or clusters of clasts during transport has not been quantitatively assessed. We present a study which identifies the types of abrasion and quantifies erosion due to the transport of clasts during three storms in February and March 2016. We explore relationships between platform roughness, determined by the fractal dimension (D) of the topographic profiles, geomorphic controls and the type and frequency of abrasion feature observed. Clast transport experiments were undertaken in conjunction with the measurement of wave energy to assess transport dynamics under summer and winter (non‐storm) conditions.

Platform abrasion occurred extensively during the storms. We identify two types of clast abrasion trails: simple and complex. In addition, we find two forms of erosion occur on these trails: Scratch marks and Percussion marks. An estimated 13.6 m2 of the platform surface was eroded by clast abrasion on simple abrasion trails during the three storms. We attribute approximately two thirds of this to scratch‐type abrasion. The total volume of material removed by abrasion was 67 808 cm3. Despite the larger surface area affected by scratch marks, we find that the volume of material removed through percussion impact was almost seven times greater. We also find that the type and frequency of abrasion features is strongly influenced by the effect of platform morphometry on transport mode, with impact‐type abrasion dominating areas of higher platform roughness. Results of the clast transport experiments indicate that abrasion occurs under non‐storm wave energy conditions with observable geomorphological effects. We suggest that abrasion by clasts is an important component of platform erosion on high energy Atlantic coastlines, particularly over longer timescales, and that the morphogenetic link between the cliff and the platform is important in this context as the sediment supplied by the cliff is used to abrade the platform. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Modelling the relative dominance of wave erosion and weathering processes in shore platform development in micro‐ to mega‐tidal settings
Authors: Matsumoto Hironori , Dickson Mark E. , Kench Paul S.
Published: May 2018

In this paper we use a numerical model to explore the relative dominance of two main processes in shore platform development: wave erosion; weathering due to wetting and drying. The modelling approach differs from previous work in several aspects, including: the way that it accounts for weathering arising from gradual surficial intertidal rock degradation; subtidal profile shape development; and the consideration of a broad erosion parameter space in which, at either end of the erosion spectrum, shore platform profiles are produced by waves or weathering alone. Results show that in micro‐tidal settings, wave erosion dominates the evolution of (i) shore platforms that become largely subtidal and (ii) sub‐horizontal shore platforms that have a receding seaward edge. Weathering processes dominate the evolution of sub‐horizontal shore platforms with a stable seaward edge. In contrast, sloping shore platforms in mega‐tidal settings are produced across the full range of the process‐dominance spectrum depending on the how the erosional efficacy of wave erosion and weathering are parameterized. Morphological feedbacks control the process‐dominance. In small tidal environments wave processes are strongly controlled by the presence/absence of an abrupt seaward edge, but this influence is much smaller in large tidal environments due to larger water depths particularly at high tides. In large tidal environments, similar shore platform profile geometries can be produced by either wave‐dominant or weathering‐dominant process regimes. Equifinality in shore platform development has been noted in other studies, but mainly in the context of smaller‐scale (centimetre to metre) erosion features. Here we draw attention to geomorphic equifinality at the scale of the shore platform itself. Progress requires a greater understanding of the actual mechanics of the process regimes operating on shore platforms. However, this paper makes a substantial contribution to the debate by identifying the physical conditions that allow clear statements about process dominance. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Distribution of erosion intensity in the Jingjiang reach influenced by the Three Gorges Dam
Authors: Han Jianqiao , Sun Zhaohua , Li Yitian
Published: May 2018

Elucidation of the fluvial processes influenced by dams provides better understanding of river protection and basin management. However, less attention has been given to the erosion intensity distribution of riverbeds and its association with channel morphology and hydrological conditions. Based on hydrological and topographic data, the spatial and temporal distributions of erosion intensity (2002–2014) influenced by the Three Gorges Dam (TGD) were analyzed for the Jingjiang reach of the Yangtze River. The mechanisms underlying the distribution of erosion intensity in response to hydrological conditions were investigated. The results are as follows: (1) The erosion intensities of different discharges were not uniform, and moderate flow (10 000–27 000 m3/s) produced the largest erosion magnitude among all flow ranges. Owing to the hydrological changes caused by flood reduction and prolongation of moderate flow duration after the TGD began operating, up to 70% of the erosion amount was caused by moderate flows. (2) The lateral distribution of erosion intensity was extremely uneven, as the proportion of cumulative erosion of the low‐flow channel within the bankfull channel reached 88% in 2013. This caused the channel to become narrower and deeper. (3) The longitudinal distribution of erosion intensity was inhomogeneous. The erosion intensity in the wide reaches was greater than that in the narrow reaches, leading to smaller differences in channel morphology along the river. (4) Changes in hydrological conditions influenced by the TGD, significant reduction of sediment concentration along with flood abatement, and increased duration of moderate flow discharges were the main factors affecting erosion distribution in the post‐dam period. Our conclusions can be applied to the Yangtze River as a basis for riverbed change estimations, and river management strategies. Copyright © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Description of soil micro‐topography and fractional wetted area under runoff using fractal dimensions
Authors: García‐Serrana María , Gulliver John S. , Nieber John L.
Published: May 2018

Understanding the connections between the micro‐topography of a surface and the patterns of shallow overland flow is important to the study of runoff and infiltration processes. In slopes with micro‐topographic features parallel to the flow, water tends to concentrate in channels and only a fraction of the slope contributes to the overland flow. This study aimed to formulate the relevance of the fractal approach for understanding the relation of surface roughness to overland flow patterns. Laboratory experiments of simulated runoff over a bare soil slope were used to test the efficacy of two fractal parameters (fractal dimension [FD] and vertical intercept [VIC] from the Fourier power spectrum method) to describe how main surface micro‐topographic features can influence runoff, infiltration and erosion processes.

The fractal parameters behaved differently for the distinctive initial surface treatments (smooth, three rills, and five rills). The anisotropy of the surface was evident based on the change of the fractal parameters with direction. The rose plots of the fractal parameters provided important information about the magnitude of the concentrated flow erosion of a surface and its main direction; in the direction perpendicular to the rills, the FD values were lower and the VIC greater. The minimum FD decreased and the maximum VIC increased with runoff time.

A linear relationship between the infiltration depth and the percentage of wetted area was observed. Furthermore, a relationship between the fraction of wetted area and the fractal parameters has been developed, indicating that vertical variations (VIC) in roughness had more impact on fraction of wetted area than horizontal variations (FD) of the surface. Finally, a decrease in the minimum FD and an increase in the maximum VIC were related to greater scour volumes. The scour volume of an initially smooth surface seems to be well‐represented by a power relationship with the maximum VIC. By defining indicators of rill erosion and associating them with flow patterns through these fractal parameters, a better description of shallow overland flow can be achieved. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Highly Efficient Water Harvesting with Optimized Solar Thermal Membrane Distillation Device
Authors: Xue Guobin , Chen Qian , Lin Shizhe , Duan Jiangjiang , Yang Peihua , Liu Kang , Li Jia , Zhou Jun
Published: May 2018

Water distillation with solar thermal technology could be one of the most promising way to address the global freshwater scarcity, with its low cost and minimum environmental impacts. However, the low liquid water productivity, which is caused by the heat loss and inadequate heat utilization in solar‐thermal conversion process, hinders its practical application. Here, a compact solar‐thermal membrane distillation system with three structure features: highly localized solar‐thermal heating, effective cooling strategy, and recycling the latent heat, is proposed. The steam generation rate is 0.98 kg m−2 h−1 under solar illumination of 1 kW m−2 in the open system, while the liquid water productivity could be 1.02 kg m−2 h−1 with the solar efficiency up to 72% with a two‐level device. The outdoor experiments show a water productivity of 3.67 kg m−2 with salt rejection over 99.75% in one cloudy day. These results demonstrate an easy and high‐efficiency way for water distillation, especially suitable for household solar water purification.
Mitigating Reasons for the Poor Performance of n‐CdS/p‐SnS Solar Cells
Authors: Gupta Yashika , Ravikant Chhaya , Palakkandy Arun
Published: May 2018

In the present work, indium tin oxide (ITO)/n‐CdS/p‐SnS/Au structured solar cells are fabricated with best conversion efficiency of 0.005%. A detailed investigation is made into the cause of the poor conversion efficiency and the cause is narrowed down to defects in p‐SnS which effect the junction and the neutral region of the cell. The junctions performance is quantified using the ideality factor which is found to be related to the band misalignment. The paper also investigates into literature and discusses efforts made to overcome the problems with this structure.
Geoengineering at the “Edge of the World”: Exploring perceptions of ocean fertilisation through the Haida Salmon Restoration Corporation
Authors: Gannon Kate Elizabeth , Hulme Mike
Published: May 2018

The Haida Salmon Restoration Corporation's (HSRC) 2012 ocean fertilisation experiment introduced a controversial geoengineering technology to the First Nations village of Old Massett on the islands of Haida Gwaii in British Columbia. Local debate centred on conflicting interpretations of the potential environmental impacts of the project and on the Corporation's attempts to align its public brand with the Haida name and proud identity of environmental stewardship. More broadly, the controversy illustrated long‐standing arguments about the desirability and feasibility of ocean fertilisation as a geoengineering response to the threat of anthropogenic climate change. Using theHSRCcase, this paper reports a novel situated study of public perceptions of geoengineering that combines ethnographic engagement with Q‐methodology. Three distinct viewpoints on ocean fertilisation are revealed, shaped by the unique confluence of social, political, cultural and environmental circumstances of Haida Gwaii. These viewpoints on ocean fertilisation reflect different ideas held by local residents about planetary limits, about the way humans attain knowledge of natural systems and about the human values of, and responsibilities toward, nature. Although the revealed viewpoints are constructed through contextually specific local meanings, they engage with debates that emerge across a range of other geoengineering technologies and which reflect contested philosophical positions visible in wider environmental management and restoration discourses. The case of ocean fertilisation off the islands of Haida Gwaii may therefore provide a useful benchmark for reflexivity in geoengineering governance. Our case study shows that engaging with the situated beliefs and values that underpin human attitudes and responses towards novel geoengineering technologies is asine qua nonfor good governance. Even so, our results suggest such technologies will likely always be contested given the diverse ways in which people understand human relations with the non‐human world.
Fluorescent Nucleobase Analogues with Extended Pi Surfaces Stabilize DNA Duplexes Containing O6‐Alkylguanine Adducts
Authors: Dahlmann Heidi A. , Berger Florence D. , Kung Ryan W. , Wyss Laura A. , Gubler Irina , McKeague Maureen , Wetmore Stacey D. , Sturla Shana J.
Published: May 2018

Chemical alkylation of DNA produces potentially toxic and mutagenic damage such as O6‐alkylguanine (O6‐alkylG) adducts. Non‐natural nucleoside analogues that pair with DNA adducts provide a potential basis for studying damaged DNA. Herein, we evaluated the base pairing properties of elongated nucleoside analogues containing napthalene‐derived tricyclic nucleobases as DNA adduct‐pairing nucleoside analogues in DNA hybridization probes. DNA duplex melting studies revealed that the elongated nucleoside analogs formed more stable base pairs opposite O6‐alkylG than G and were better able to distinguish between G, O6‐alkylG, and an abasic site than any previously described nucleoside analogue. DNA duplexes containing an elongated base analogue exhibited different fluorescence intensities when paired opposite O6‐alkylG vs. G or abasic sites. Their selectivity for stabilizing alkylated DNA make the elongated hydrophobic base analogues improved candidates for incorporating into DNA hybridization probes targeting O6‐alkylG.
The interface between the EGF1 and EGF2 domains is critical in integrin affinity regulation
Authors: Hu Ping , Luo Bing‐Hao
Published: May 2018

It has been proposed that integrins adopt a bent, closed conformation with low ligand binding capability at resting state and switch into an extended, open conformation upon activation or interacting with extracellular matrix (ECM) ligand. In this study, we addressed how integrin conformational change at the β genu affects ligand binding and signaling. We discovered that swapping of the β3 epidermal growth factor‐like (EGF) domain 1 and 2 with that of β8 greatly promoted ligand binding in β3β8 chimeras. Sequence alignment indicated that β8 integrin uniquely lacks the interface between the EGF1 and 2. Disrupting this interface of the β3 integrin increased integrin ligand binding. Furthermore, the interface is critical for integrin affinity regulation but not downstream outside‐in signaling.
Travelling the circle together, solo: An individual protocol for the Circle of Security intensive intervention
Authors: Andrews Ellen , Coyne Joe
Published: May 2018

Circle of Security (COS) is an approach to help parents better understand the attachment needs of their children. The COS model, which began as an intensive, individualized intervention delivered in the context of a group, has been implemented in a variety of formats, including a DVD‐based format (Circle of Security Parenting [COS‐P]). This article presents a return to the original intensive intervention, adapted to be delivered in an individual therapy context and incorporating clips from COS‐P. This approach emphasizes the importance of retaining video review within this intervention, showing the client directly interacting with his or her own child. The application of this hybrid format is demonstrated through the case of a mother and 5‐year‐old child presenting with difficulty negotiating separations.
Treating disorganized attachment in the Group Attachment‐Based Intervention (GABI©): A case study
Authors: Knafo Hannah , Murphy Anne , Steele Howard , Steele Miriam
Published: May 2018

This paper describes the treatment of a mother and child who demonstrated disorganized attachment behaviors in their interactions with one another. The mother, who was diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder, felt incapable of managing her aggressive toddler and his emotional needs. The dyad was referred for therapy due to concerns about his developmental progress, evident delays having been mainly attributed to the problems observed within the parent–child relationship. The primary intervention applied to working with the dyad was the Group Attachment‐Based Intervention (GABI©), developed by Anne Murphy in collaboration with Miriam Steele and Howard Steele. The mother also received individual psychotherapy as a supplement to the dyadic and group work of GABI©. The process and outcome of this comprehensive approach to treating a vulnerable dyad is explored in this case study.
Zafirlukast promotes insulin secretion by increasing calcium influx through L‐type calcium channels
Authors: Hwang Hyeon‐Jeong , Park Kyoung‐Su , Choi Jang Hyun , Cocco Lucio , Jang Hyun‐Jun , Suh Pann‐Ghill
Published: May 2018

The zafirlukast has been reported to be anti‐inflammatory and widely used to alleviate the symptoms of asthma. However, its influence on insulin secretion in pancreatic β‐cells has not been investigated. Herein, we examined the effects of zafirlukast on insulin secretion and the potential underlying mechanisms. Among the cysteinyl leukotriene receptor 1 antagonists, zafirlukast, pranlukast, and montelukast, only zafirlukast enhanced insulin secretion in a concentration‐dependent manner in both low and high glucose conditions and elevated the level of [Ca2+]i, further activating Ca2+/calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII), protein kinase B (AKT), and extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) signaling. These effects were nearly abolished by the L‐type Ca2+ channel antagonist nifedipine, while treatment with thapsigargin, a sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ ATPase inhibitor, did not have the same effect, suggesting that zafirlukast primarily induces the entry of extracellular Ca2+ rather than intracellular Ca2+ from the endoplasmic reticulum. Zafirlukast treatment resulting in a significant drop in glucose levels and increased insulin secretion in C57BL/6J mice. These findings will contribute to an improved understanding of the side effects of zafirlukast and potential candidate for a therapeutic intervention in diabetes.
The immunomodulatory effects of adipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cells and mesenchymal stem cells‐conditioned medium in chronic colitis
Authors: Heidari Maryam , Pouya Sedigheh , Baghaei Kaveh , Aghdaei Hamid Asadzadeh , Namaki Saeed , Zali Mohammad Reza , Hashemi Seyed Mahmoud
Published: May 2018

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) as a chronic recurrent disorder is characterized by mucosal immune response dysregulation, which is more prevalent in the youth. Adipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADMSCs) are the multipotent cells that can be effective in immune response regulation via cell–cell interaction and their secretions. In this study, the effects of ADMSCs and mesenchymal stem cell‐conditioned medium (MSC‐CM) were evaluated on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)‐induced colitis in mice. Chronic colitis was induced in female C57BL/6 mice using 2% DSS in drinking water for three cycles; there were 4 days of DSS‐water administration that was followed by 7 days of DSS‐free water, in a cycle. ADMSCs, 106 cells per mouse, were injected intraperitoneally (IP), whereas the MSC‐CM injection was also performed six times from the last day of DSS in Cycle 1. Clinical symptoms were recorded daily. The colon pathological changes, cytokine levels, and regulatory T (Treg) cell percentages were then analyzed. After receiving ADMSCs and MSC‐CM in colitis mice, the clinical symptoms and disease activity index were improved and the survival rate was increased. The histopathological examination also showed tissue healing in comparison with the nontreated group. In addition, the increased level of transforming growth factor beta, increased percentage of Treg cells, increased level of interleukin (IL)‐10, and decreased level of IL‐17 were observed after the treatment. This study showed the regulatory effects of ADMSCs and MSC‐CM on inflammatory responses. Therefore, the use of ADMSCs and MSC‐CM can be introduced as a new and effective therapeutic approach for patients with colitis.
Prevalence of Usutu and West Nile virus antibodies in human sera, Modena, Italy, 2012
Authors: Faggioni Giovanni , De Santis Riccardo , Pomponi Alice , Grottola Antonella , Serpini Giulia Fregni , Meacci Marisa , Gennari William , Tagliazucchi Sara , Pecorari Monica , Monaco Federica , Savini Giovanni , Benedetti Eleonora , Remoli Maria Elena , Fortuna Claudia , Venturi Giulietta , Rezza Giovanni , Lista Florigio
Published: May 2018

A collection of 3069 human sera collected in the area of the municipality of Modena, Emilia Romagna, Italy, was retrospectively investigated for specific antibodies against Usutu (USUV) and West Nile viruses (WNV). All the samples resulting positive using a preliminary screening test were analyzed with the plaque reduction neutralization test. Overall, 24 sera were confirmed as positive for USUV (0.78%) and 13 for WNV (0.42%). The results suggest that in 2012, USUV was circulating more than WNV in North‐eastern Italy.
HTLV‐1 and ‐2 in a first‐time blood donor population in Northeastern Brazil: Prevalence, molecular characterization, and evidence of intrafamilial transmission
Authors: Ribeiro Ivonizete Pires , Kozlowski Aline Garcia , Dias de Matos Marcia Alves , da Costa e Silva Ágabo Macedo , dos Santos Carneiro Megmar Aparecida , Vicente Ana Carolina Paulo , Martins Regina Maria Bringel
Published: May 2018

Independent epidemiology for respective human T‐cell lymphotropic virus (HTLV) types 1 and 2 is little known in blood donors in Brazil, where screening for HTLV‐1/2 is mandatory at blood banks, but no testing to confirm/differentiate these viruses. Therefore, this study aims to assess the prevalence of HTLV‐1 and ‐2 in a first‐time blood donor population in Northeastern Brazil and to carry out molecular characterization of respective isolates. A cross‐sectional study was conducted at the State Blood Bank in Piauí. Samples were screened for anti–HTLV‐1/2 by enzyme immunoassay, and reactive samples were confirmed using a line immunoassay and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Of 37 306 blood donors, 47 were anti–HTLV‐1/2 reactive by enzyme immunoassay. After confirmed by line immunoassay, 22 were positive for HTLV‐1 (0.59 per 1000; 95% CI: 0.38‐0.87), 14 were positive for HTLV‐2 (0.37 per 1000; 95% CI: 0.21‐0.61), 1 was indeterminate, and the remaining donors were negative. The HTLV‐1 infection was also confirmed by PCR in all anti–HTLV‐1‐positive samples, and sequencing classified these isolates as belonging to the Transcontinental (A) subgroup of the Cosmopolitan (1a) subtype. Of 14 anti–HTLV‐2‐positive samples, 11 were also PCR positive, which belonged to subtype a (HTLV‐2a/c). In addition, 38 family members of 5 HTLV‐1‐ and 3 HTLV‐2‐infected donors were analyzed. Familial transmission of HTLV‐1 and ‐2 was evidenced in 3 families. In conclusion, in Northeastern Brazil, where HTLV‐1 and ‐2 are endemic, counseling blood donor candidates and their families might play a key role in limiting the spread of these viruses.