bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cobalt Diselenide Nanorods Grafted on Graphitic Carbon Nitride: A Synergistic Catalyst for Oxygen Reactions in Rechargeable Li−O2 Batteries
Authors: Kumar Surender , Jena Anirudha , Hu Yao Chong , Liang Chaolun , Zhou Wuzong , Hung Tai Feng , Chang Wen Sheng , Chang Ho , Liu Ru Shi
Published: September 2017

CoSe2 nanorods are prepared through a hydrothermal approach and characterized by using various techniques to examine crystallinity, crystallite size, morphology, and defects present within. CoSe2 is grafted on graphitic carbon nitride (g‐C3N4) for oxygen reactions in a non‐aqueous medium. Li−O2 batteries are assembled in di‐methyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and investigated for charge‐discharge cycles at various current densities. The Li−O2 battery with CoSe2@g‐C3N4 delivers a discharge capacity of 2158 mAh g−1 at a current density of 0.1 mA cm−2. The charging potential of the Li−O2 battery is reduced by 280 mV in a combination of CoSe2 and g‐C3N4. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy of the Li−O2 battery shows that the charge‐transfer resistance of the CoSe2 catalyst is reduced from 311 to 181 Ω by adding g‐C3N4. Tetra‐ethylene glycol dimethyl ether is also used as the electrolyte to ensure better performance in terms of the stability of the cell in comparison to the DMSO electrolyte. Upon illumination of solar light, without any redox mediator, the overpotential of the charging step can be reduced. Under solar light illumination, the charging potential plateau shows a reduction of 330 and 170 mV in CoSe2 and CoSe2@g‐C3N4 samples, respectively.
Influence of bronchial diameter change on the airflow dynamics based on a pressure‐controlled ventilation system
Authors: Ren Shuai , Cai Maolin , Shi Yan , Xu Weiqing , Zhang Xiaohua Douglas
Published: September 2017

Bronchial diameter is a key parameter that affects the respiratory treatment of mechanically ventilated patients. In this paper, to reveal the influence of bronchial diameter on the airflow dynamics of pressure‐controlled mechanically ventilated patients, a new respiratory system model is presented that combines multigeneration airways with lungs. Furthermore, experiments and simulation studies to verify the model are performed. Finally, through the simulation study, it can be determined that in airway generations 2 to 7, when the diameter is reduced to half of the original value, the maximum air pressure (maximum air pressure in lungs) decreases by nearly 16%, the maximum flow decreases by nearly 30%, and the total airway pressure loss (sum of each generation pressure drop) is more than 5 times the original value. Moreover, in airway generations 8 to 16, with increasing diameter, the maximum air pressure, maximum flow, and total airway pressure loss remain almost constant. When the diameter is reduced to half of the original value, the maximum air pressure decreases by 3%, the maximum flow decreases by nearly 5%, and the total airway pressure loss increases by 200%. The study creates a foundation for improvement in respiratory disease diagnosis and treatment.
Characterizing the Nano‐Bio Interface Using Microscopic Techniques: Imaging the Cell System is Just as Important as Imaging the Nanoparticle System
Authors: Sayes Christie M. , Lujan Henry
Published: September 2017

The rapid growth of nanotechnology and its industries has elevated the need to understand the risks associated with handling, using, and disposing of nanomaterials. These risks can be assessed through exposure measurement and hazard identification. One of the common challenges associated with quantifying nanomaterials in products, waste, humans, or the environment is the lack of tools available to measure concentration. The ability of refined tools and techniques to qualitatively detect nanoparticles in complex matrices has been demonstrated. For biological and ecological tests systems, dose can be represented as initial concentration in the applied matrix, concentration administered during the route of exposure, concentration at the target organ, and intake concentration at the cellular level. Each of these concentration measurements requires different sets of tools to perform accurate analyses. Advances in microscopy techniques provide new opportunities for reporting observations occurring at the interaction of a nanoparticle with a biomolecular entity of similar size within a biological test(s) system. This protocol outlines the steps to image nanomaterials within cell‐based systems. © 2017 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Diversity of Board of Directors and Environmental Social Governance: Evidence from Italian Listed Companies
Authors: Cucari Nicola , Esposito De Falco Salvatore , Orlando Beatrice
Published: September 2017

This study investigates the association between environmental, social, and governance (ESG) disclosure and diversity of the board of directors (BoD) in Italian listed companies. Diversity of BoD in terms of gender diversity, CSR committees, board average, and independent directors are examined as to their influence on voluntary ESG disclosure. This rating is highly relevant to managers and investors considering ESG issues in their decision‐making process. The factors that drive or hinder ESG disclosure are gaining importance. Despite the relevance of the topic, in Italy there is a scarce amount of literature regarding diversity in the BoD. The data set includes ESG data for more than 54 Italian companies for the period 2011–2014. The results indicate that firm's CSR disclosure is associated with independent director and committee CSR. In addition, women on BoDs is negatively correlated while the age of the board is not significant. Based on this study, shareholders and policymakers will have a deeper knowledge on the significant roles that board diversity is playing as a determinant of ESG disclosure. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment
Territory surveillance and prey management: Wolves keep track of space and time
Authors: Schlägel Ulrike E. , Merrill Evelyn H. , Lewis Mark A.
Published: September 2017

Identifying behavioral mechanisms that underlie observed movement patterns is difficult when animals employ sophisticated cognitive‐based strategies. Such strategies may arise when timing of return visits is important, for instance to allow for resource renewal or territorial patrolling. We fitted spatially explicit random‐walk models toGPSmovement data of six wolves (Canis lupus; Linnaeus, 1758) from Alberta, Canada to investigate the importance of the following: (1) territorial surveillance likely related to renewal of scent marks along territorial edges, to reduce intraspecific risk among packs, and (2) delay in return to recently hunted areas, which may be related to anti‐predator responses of prey under varying prey densities. The movement models incorporated the spatiotemporal variable “time since last visit,” which acts as a wolf's memory index of its travel history and is integrated into the movement decision along with its position in relation to territory boundaries and information on local prey densities. We used a model selection framework to test hypotheses about the combined importance of these variables in wolf movement strategies. Time‐dependent movement for territory surveillance was supported by all wolf movement tracks. Wolves generally avoided territory edges, but this avoidance was reduced as time since last visit increased. Time‐dependent prey management was weak except in one wolf. This wolf selected locations with longer time since last visit and lower prey density, which led to a longer delay in revisiting high prey density sites. Our study shows that we can use spatially explicit random walks to identify behavioral strategies that merge environmental information and explicit spatiotemporal information on past movements (i.e., “when” and “where”) to make movement decisions. The approach allows us to better understand cognition‐based movement in relation to dynamic environments and resources.
Understanding and predicting habitat for wildlife conservation: the case of Canada lynx at the range periphery
Authors: Holbrook Joseph D. , Squires John R. , Olson Lucretia E. , DeCesare Nicholas J. , Lawrence Rick L.
Published: September 2017

Ecologists and managers are motivated to predict the distribution of animals across landscapes as well as understand the mechanisms giving rise to that distribution. Satisfying this motivation requires an integrated framework that characterizes multi‐scale habitat use and selection, as well as builds predictive models such as resource selection functions. However, the assumption of constant habitat use or selection is often made in such analyses, which ignores the possibility that individuals experiencing different conditions might respond differently. Assessing functional responses in habitat use evaluates how animal behavior changes with differing environmental conditions, which has basic and applied utility. Here, we combined these ideas into an integrated process that characterizes habitat relationships, predicts habitat, and assesses behavioral differences with changing environmental conditions. Our species of interest was Canada lynx (Lynx canadensis) in the Northern Rocky Mountains, which is a rare and federally threatened forest carnivore. Through our process, we developed multi‐scale predictions of lynx distribution and learned that across scales and seasons, lynx use more mature, spruce‐fir forests than any other structure stage or species. Intermediate snow depths and the distribution of snowshoe hares (Lepus americanus) were the strongest predictors of where lynx selected their home ranges. Within their home ranges, female and male lynx increasingly used advanced regeneration forest structures as they became more available (up to a maximum availability of 40%). These patterns supported the bottom‐up mechanisms regulating Canada lynx in that advanced regeneration generally provides the most abundant snowshoe hares, while mature forest is where lynx appear to hunt efficiently. However, lynx exhibited decreasing use of stand initiation structures (up to a maximum availability of 25%). Land managers have an opportunity to promote lynx habitat in the form of advanced regeneration, but are required to go through the stand initiation phase. Thus, managers can apply the relative proportions of forest structure classes along with our response curves to inform landscape actions (e.g., timber harvest) targeted at facilitating the forest mosaic used and selected by Canada lynx. Collectively, the insights gleaned from our approach advance habitat conservation efforts and consequently are of broad utility to applied ecologists and managers.
Novel role of the nociceptin system as a regulator of glutamate transporter expression in developing astrocytes
Authors: Meyer Logan C. , Paisley Caitlin E. , Mohamed Esraa , Bigbee John W. , Kordula Tomasz , Richard Hope , Lutfy Kabirullah , Sato‐Bigbee Carmen
Published: September 2017

Our previous results showed that oligodendrocyte development is regulated by both nociceptin and its G‐protein coupled receptor, the nociceptin/orphanin FQ receptor (NOR). The present in vitro and in vivo findings show that nociceptin plays a crucial conserved role regulating the levels of the glutamate/aspartate transporter GLAST/EAAT1 in both human and rodent brain astrocytes. This nociceptin‐mediated response takes place during a critical developmental window that coincides with the early stages of astrocyte maturation. GLAST/EAAT1 upregulation by nociceptin is mediated by NOR and the downstream participation of a complex signaling cascade that involves the interaction of several kinase systems, including PI‐3K/AKT, mTOR, and JAK. Because GLAST is the main glutamate transporter during brain maturation, these novel findings suggest that nociceptin plays a crucial role in regulating the function of early astrocytes and their capacity to support glutamate homeostasis in the developing brain.
Pyrido[1,2‐a]pyrimidin‐4‐ones: Ligand‐based Design, Synthesis, and Evaluation as an Anti‐inflammatory Agent
Authors: Jadhav Sunil B. , Fatema Samreen , Patil Rajesh B. , Sangshetti Jaiprakash N. , Farooqui Mazahar
Published: September 2017

In the present study, a series of novel pyrido[1,2‐a]pyrimidin‐4‐one derivatives (1–45) were synthesized, characterized, and evaluated for their anti‐inflammatory activity. The structures of all newly synthesized compounds were confirmed by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, mass spectroscopy, and C, H, and N analyses. Preliminary these newly synthesized compounds were evaluated for their in vitro cyclooxygenase (COX)‐2/COX‐1 inhibitory activity. The celecoxib, a COX‐2 inhibitor, was used as a reference standard drug. In this inhibitory study, compounds 42, 43, 44, and 45 were found to have significant in vitro inhibitory profile as compared with the reference drug. These compounds were then subjected to their in vivo anti‐inflammatory assay by using carrageenan‐induced rat paw edema method in next level of screening. Later, these same compounds were tested for their ulcerogenic property. Based on these activity data, the compound 43 (in vitro COX‐2 activity—IC50 = 0.4 μM, SI = 400, in vivo anti‐inflammatory activity—72% inhibition after 3 h, and 0.38%—Ulcer index) was emerged as most promising anti‐inflammatory agent with very low ulcerogenic action.
Synthesis of New Pyrano‐fused Quinolines as Antibacterial and Antimicrobial Agents
Authors: Watpade Rahul , Bholay Avinash , Toche Raghunath
Published: September 2017

This manuscript describes a brief overview of latest research involving the use of pyrano‐fused quinolines as new antibacterial and antimicrobial agents. The synthesis begins with 4‐hydroxy quinolone‐2‐one 1a and 6‐fluoro‐4‐hydroxyquinolin‐2(1H)‐one 1b, which were obtained by condensation of aromatic amines with diethyl malonate. 9‐Fluoro‐6H‐pyrano[3,2‐c]quinoline‐2,5‐dione 3b and 6H‐pyrano[3,2‐c]quinoline‐2,5‐dione 3a were obtained by reaction with diethyl malonate in presence of ammonium acetate. These pyranoquinolones on refluxing in phosphorous oxychloride were converted to 5‐chloro‐2H‐pyrano[3,2‐c]quinolin‐2‐one 4a and 5‐chloro‐9‐fluoro‐2H‐pyrano[3,2‐c]quinolin‐2‐one 4b in good yields. The chloro functionality in compound 4a and 4b, which are reactive, can be replaced by various nucleophilic reagents such as amines and amino acids. The resulted amino pyrano[3,2‐c]quinolines showed moderate‐to‐excellent antibacterial and antimicrobial activity.
Synthesis of New Spirooxindole‐Fused Isoxazoline/Triazole and Isoxazoline/Isoxazole Derivatives from Three‐Component 1,3‐Dipolar Cycloaddition
Authors: Sakly Randa , Edziri Hayet , Askri Moheddine , Knorr Michael , Louven Kathrin , Strohmann Carsten , Mastouri Maha
Published: September 2017

A series of diverse heterocycles containing spirooxindole, isoxazoline/triazole, and isoxazole rings has been synthesized via an efficient three‐component reaction of (E)‐2‐(1‐propargyl‐2‐oxoindoline‐3‐ylidene)acetophenones 1, arylnitrile oxides 2, and arylazides 3 using Cu(I) as catalyst. The regiochemistry and stereochemistry of cycloadducts 4a and 5a have been confirmed by X‐ray diffraction studies. The heterocycles were screened against Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria and fungi. Several compounds exhibit moderate to excellent activities comparable to those of established standard drugs.
Synthesis and Characterization of Some New Heteroaromatic Compounds Having Chirality Adjacent to a 1,3,4‐Thiadiazole Moiety and Their Antimicrobial Activities
Authors: Gür Mahmut , Şener Nesrin , Kaştaş Çiğdem A. , Özkan Osman Emre , Muğlu Halit , Elmaswari Magboule A. M.
Published: September 2017

Through a cyclization reaction of 2‐phenylbutyric acid with N‐phenylthiosemicarbazide and POCl3, novel 1,3,4‐thiadiazole derivatives were synthesized. Their structures were confirmed using IR, 1H NMR, and 13C NMR spectroscopies and elemental analysis. The antibacterial activities of the obtained 1,3,4‐thiadiazole derivatives were tested against Gram‐negative bacteria (Salmonella enteritidis, Salmonella typhimurium, Enterobacter aerogenes, Salmonella infantis, Salmonella kentucky, and Escherichia coli) and Gram‐positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, and Enterococcus durans) using a disk diffusion method. Moreover, an antifungal activity experiment was performed against Candida albicans using the disk diffusion method. It was observed that the synthesized 1,3,4‐thiadiazole derivatives exhibited effective antimicrobial activity against S. aureus, E. coli, and C. albicans. Based on these results, the 1,3,4‐thiadiazole derivatives can be considered as a source of bioactive agents for pharmacological and medicinal applications.
Synthesis and Spectral Characterization of Novel Bis‐thiazole Derivatives via Ring Closure of Benzo[d]thiazol‐2‐amine, Various α‐Haloketones, and S‐Nucleophiles
Authors: Arab‐Salmanabadi Samira
Published: September 2017

Novel functionalized bis‐thiazole derivatives (4a–d, 9a,b, 13a–e, and 16a–d) were synthesized in good to excellent yields (70–90%) via the ring closure of benzo[d]thiazol‐2‐amine and various α‐haloketones in the presence of carbon disulfide or aryl isothiocyanates as S‐nucleophiles. The structures of newly synthesized compounds were characterized by IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, elemental analysis, and mass spectroscopy techniques.
Group A rotaviruses circulating prior to a national immunization programme in Nigeria: Clinical manifestations, high G12P[8] frequency, intra‐genotypic divergence of VP4 and VP7
Authors: Japhet Margaret O. , Famurewa Oladiran , Iturriza‐Gomara Miren , Adesina Olufisayo A. , Opaleye Oluyinka O. , Niendorf Sandra , Bock C. Thomas , Mas Marques Andreas
Published: September 2017

Nigeria having approximately 50 000 Rotavirus A (RVA) deaths annually is yet to introduce RVA vaccine into routine national immunization; therefore surveillance of RVA strains circulating before vaccine introduction is essential in evaluating impact of the intervention. Stool samples and sociodemographic data of diarrhoeic children, <5 years were collected between August 2012 and December 2013. While a high prevalence of RVA infection (47.6%; 49/103) was observed by quantitative reverse transcription real time PCR, only 25% (26/103) had high RVA genome concentrations and were antigen positive. G and P types were obtained for 31 and 37 samples respectively. G12P[8] strains were predominant (30.6%; 16/31); Other genotypes found included G9, G3, G2 and P[4], P[6], P[8]. A G12 + G2/P[8] + P[6] mixed infection was detected. The P[8] genotype showed divergence with strains distributed in lineage III and IV. Compared to the vaccines, changes in antigenic sites of VP8* and VP7 were found. The finding of the G2P[6] genotype combination and emergence of G12 strains support observations in most of the recent RVA studies from Africa. P[6] is common in many African countries, in contrast to countries in Europe and the Americas. In conclusion, this study shows the circulation of other RVA genotypes compared to the common RVA genotypes in Nigeria. PCR results should be interpreted with caution to avoid significant bias from samples with low RVA genome concentrations. These findings provide important information on the detection and molecular epidemiology of RVA prior to vaccination and contribute as a baseline for future evaluations after possible vaccine introduction.
Serial changes in liver stiffness and controlled attenuation parameter following direct‐acting antiviral therapy against hepatitis C virus genotype 1b
Authors: Ogasawara Nobuhiko , Kobayashi Masahiro , Akuta Norio , Kominami Yoko , Fujiyama Shunichiro , Kawamura Yusuke , Sezaki Hitomi , Hosaka Tetsuya , Suzuki Fumitaka , Saitoh Satoshi , Suzuki Yoshiyuki , Arase Yasuji , Ikeda Kenji , Kobayashi Mariko , Kumada Hiromitsu
Published: September 2017

Little information is available on the impact of direct‐acting antiviral (DAA) therapy on changes in liver fibrosis and steatosis. Liver stiffness (LS) and controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) values were evaluated using transient elastography. The study subjects were 214 elderly patients infected with HCV genotype 1b who received 24‐week daclatasvir and asunaprevir dual therapy. All patients of this retrospective study had no hepatocellular carcinoma before and during DAA therapy. LS and CAP were assessed before treatment (baseline), at end of treatment (EOT), and at 24, 48, 72 weeks (W) after EOT. The rate of sustained viral response (SVR) by daclatasvir and asunaprevir therapy was 91%. LS values for the entire group correlated with Fib‐4 index at baseline (r = 0.565, P < 0.001). LS in both chronic hepatitis group (Fib‐4 index <3.25) and cirrhosis group (Fib‐4 index ≥3.25) decreased significantly at each time point compared with baseline (P < 0.001). Especially, a larger decrease in LS from baseline to EOT was seen in the cirrhosis group than chronic hepatitis group (P < 0.001). LS was also significantly lower in the SVR group at EOT, 24W, 48W, 72W compared with baseline (P < 0.001). Even in the non‐SVR group, LS tended to be lower at EOT (P = 0.039), 24W (P = 0.009), 48W (P = 0.475), 72W (P = 0.033) compared with baseline. CAP increased significantly following the treatment from baseline to 48W post‐EOT (P = 0.018). Our results showed significant improvement in LS in response to daclatasvir and asunaprevir dual therapy. In the other hand, there was a tendency that CAP increased from baseline.
Labral calcification in end‐stage osteoarthritis of the hip correlates with pain and clinical function
Authors: Hubert Jan , Hawellek Thelonius , Moe Martin , Hischke Sandra , Krause Matthias , Rolvien Tim , Schmidt Tobias , Rüther Wolfgang , Niemeier Andreas
Published: September 2017

The acetabular labrum of the hip (ALH) is recognized as a clinically important structure, but knowledge about the pathophysiology of this fibrocartilage is scarce. In this prospective study we determined the prevalence of ALH calcification in patients with end‐stage osteoarthritis (OA) and analyzed the relationship of cartilage calcification (CC) with hip pain and clinical function. Cohort of 80 patients (70.2 ± 7.6years) with primary OA scheduled for total hip replacement. Harris Hip Score (HHS) was recorded preoperatively. Total ALH and femoral head (FH) were sampled intraoperatively. CC of the ALH and FH was analyzed by high‐resolution digital contact radiography. Histological degeneration of the ALH (Krenn‐Score) and FH (OARSI‐Score) was determined. Multivariate linear regression model and partial correlation analyses were performed. The prevalence of cartilage calcification both in the ALH and FH was 100%, while the amount of CC in the ALH was 1.55 times higher than in the FH (p < 0.001). There was a significant inverse regression between the amount of calcification of both the ALH and the FH and preoperative HHS (βALH = −2.1, p = 0.04), (βFH = −2.9, p = 0.005), but pain was influenced only by ALH calcification (βALH = −2.7, p = 0.008). Age‐adjusted, there was a significant correlation between cartilage calcification and histological degeneration (ALH:rs = 0.53, p < 0.001/FH: rs = 0.30, p = 0.007). Fibrocartilage and articular cartilage calcification are inseparable pathological findings in end‐stage osteoarthritis of the hip. Fibrocartilage calcification is associated with poor and painful hip function. Clinical significance: ALH fibrocartilage appears to be particularly prone to calcification, which may explain higher pain levels in individuals with a high degree of ALH calcification independent of age and histological degeneration. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:1248–1255, 2018.
Staff experience and perceptions of the safety and risks of electronic medication management systems in Victorian public hospitals
Authors: Van de Vreede Melita , de Clifford Jan , McGrath Anne
Published: September 2017

Background

Victorian hospitals are at various stages of transition to electronic medication management system (EMMS). Although improvements in medication safety and error reduction are assumed when using an EMMS, concerns have been raised regarding potential unintended consequences and possible new error types, so information from frontline staff using EMMSs provides an insight into their safety and some of the risks associated with their use.

Aim

The aims of this study were to determine the perceptions of frontline staff using an EMMS regarding the safety of the EMMS and the potential for new errors or those errors that were more likely with the use of an EMMS, and providing this feedback to the participating organisations.

Method

Frontline clinical staff in eight Victorian hospitals using EMMS were invited to participate in voluntary, anonymous online survey designed and analysed by experienced medication safety pharmacists.

Results

Respondents (n = 664) included medical officers (30%) nurses (49%) and pharmacists (16%). Forty‐eight percent of respondents have observed, investigated or reviewed errors/near misses in EMMS. Fifty‐six percent believe that these errors/near misses are a new type of error related to EMMS. Top issues identified by those involved in an error (195) were incorrect patient selection and incorrect dose scheduling, resulting in dose duplication. Fifty‐six percent agree or strongly agree that EMMS has reduced the potential for medication errors and 58% consider that EMMS has introduced new types of errors. The most significant issues raised about EMMS were time‐consuming and non‐intuitive processes and overdependence on technology.

Conclusion

Staff experience and perception of EMMS was overall positive, most considering that medication error risk is reduced, but safety concerns remain to be addressed.
Many shades of grey: seeking the optimal medical therapy of acute coronary syndrome in older people
Authors: Paratz Elizabeth D. , Nicolaides Steven , Layland Jamie
Published: September 2017

Ischaemic heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide. Age is the strongest risk factor, yet older patients are consistently underrepresented in clinical trials. With an ageing population, knowledge of the evidence base for the treatment of older patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is crucial. As people age, their responses to medications change, and they may become more susceptible to adverse effects of cardiovascular medications. Management of ACS in older people may be further complicated by the presence of comorbidities, polypharmacy and frailty. Treatment decisions need to be individualised, with consideration of patient preferences, functional and cognitive status and life expectancy. This review aims to summarise the current data for the management of older patients with ACS, with a focus on pharmacological treatment.
Patterns of Smoking and Unhealthy Alcohol Use Following Sexual Trauma Among U.S. Service Members
Authors: Seelig Amber D. , Rivera Anna C. , Powell Teresa M. , Williams Emily C. , Peterson Arthur V. , Littman Alyson J. , Maynard Charles , Street Amy E. , Bricker Jonathan B. , Boyko Edward J.
Published: September 2017

In the first known longitudinal study of the topic, we examined whether experiencing sexual assault or sexual harassment while in the military was associated with increased risk for subsequent unhealthy alcohol use and smoking among U.S. service members in the Millennium Cohort Study (2001–2012). Adjusted complementary log–log models were fit to estimate the relative risk of (a) smoking relapse among former smokers (men: n = 4,610; women: n = 1,453); (b) initiation of unhealthy alcohol use (problem drinking and/or drinking over recommended limits) among those with no known history of unhealthy alcohol use (men: n = 8,459; women: n = 4,816); and (c) relapse among those previously reporting unhealthy alcohol use (men: n = 3,487; women: n = 1,318). Men who reported experiencing sexual assault while in the military had sixfold higher risk for smoking relapse: relative risk (RR) = 6.62; 95% confidence interval (CI) [2.34, 18.73], than men who did not. Women who reported experiencing sexual assault while in the military had almost twice the risk for alcohol relapse: RR = 1.73; 95% CI [1.06, 2.83]. There were no other significant associations. These findings suggest that men and women may respond differently following sexual trauma, and support future concerted policy efforts by military leadership to prevent, detect, and intervene on sexual assault.
Estimating Gestational Age With Sonography: Regression‐Derived Formula Versus the Fetal Biometric Average
Authors: Cawyer Chase R. , Anderson Sarah B. , Szychowski Jeff M. , Neely Cherry , Owen John
Published: September 2017

Objectives

To compare the accuracy of a new regression‐derived formula developed from the National Fetal Growth Studies data to the common alternative method that uses the average of the gestational ages (GAs) calculated for each fetal biometric measurement (biparietal diameter, head circumference, abdominal circumference, and femur length).

Methods

This retrospective cross‐sectional study identified nonanomalous singleton pregnancies that had a crown‐rump length plus at least 1 additional sonographic examination with complete fetal biometric measurements. With the use of the crown‐rump length to establish the referent estimated date of delivery, each method's (National Institute of Child Health and Human Development regression versus Hadlock average [Radiology 1984; 152:497–501]), error at every examination was computed. Error, defined as the difference between the crown‐rump length–derived GA and each method's predicted GA (weeks), was compared in 3 GA intervals: 1 (14 weeks–20 weeks 6 days), 2 (21 weeks–28 weeks 6 days), and 3 (≥29 weeks). In addition, the proportion of each method's examinations that had errors outside prespecified (±) day ranges was computed by using odds ratios.

Results

A total of 16,904 sonograms were identified. The overall and prespecified GA range subset mean errors were significantly smaller for the regression compared to the average (P < .01), and the regression had significantly lower odds of observing examinations outside the specified range of error in GA intervals 2 (odds ratio, 1.15; 95% confidence interval, 1.01–1.31) and 3 (odds ratio, 1.24; 95% confidence interval, 1.17–1.32) than the average method.

Conclusions

In a contemporary unselected population of women dated by a crown‐rump length–derived GA, the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development regression formula produced fewer estimates outside a prespecified margin of error than the commonly used Hadlock average; the differences were most pronounced for GA estimates at 29 weeks and later.
Efficacy and safety of a novel picosecond laser using combination of 1 064 and 595 nm on patients with melasma: A prospective, randomized, multicenter, split‐face, 2% hydroquinone cream‐controlled clinical trial
Authors: Choi Young‐Jun , Nam Jae‐Hui , Kim Jung Yup , Min Joon Hong , Park Kui Young , Ko Eun Jung , Kim Beom Joon , Kim Won‐Serk
Published: September 2017

Background and Objectives

Melasma is a common acquired, chronic hypermelanosis and still remains a therapeutic challenge. The low‐fluence 1 064 nm Q‐switched Nd:YAG laser is the most widely used for the treatment of moderate to severe melasma in Asia. Recently, the picosecond laser has been introduced for various pigmentary disorders such as melasma. We evaluated the efficacy and safety of a picosecond laser with dual‐wavelengths (1 064 and 595 nm) and topical 2% hydroquinone (HQ) combination therapy on patients with melasma, and compared results with those obtained with 2% HQ alone.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

This was a prospective, randomized, split‐face, controlled trial comparing two treatments with combined 7 week 2% HQ (daily) and 5 week picosecond laser (weekly) versus 7 week 2% HQ. The primary efficacy variable was the change rate of the relative lightness values (RL*I) at week 7 from baseline. RL*I at a follow‐up visit, modified melasma severity score (mMASI), and satisfaction were assessed.

Results

Picosecond laser and 2% HQ had superior efficacy to 2% HQ alone: 30/39 (76.92%) subjects on combination treatment achieved ≥51% improvement of RL*I versus 1/39 (2.56%) subjects on 2% HQ. The mMASI, RL*I, and satisfaction on the laser‐treated side at week 7 supported these results. Aside from RL*I, no difference between the laser‐treated versus control side was found after follow‐up. No serious adverse events were reported.

Conclusion

A 750 picosecond laser using 1 064 and 595 nm was effective and safe for the treatment of Korean melasma patients. The picosecond laser with dual‐wavelength used in this study can reduce the photothermal effect generated during the removal of pigment and total duration of the procedure, and can be expected to reduce the occurrence of adverse events. Lasers Surg. Med. 49:899–907, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Diode laser to treat small oral vascular malformations: A prospective case series study
Authors: Bacci Christian , Sacchetto Luca , Zanette Gastone , Sivolella Stefano
Published: September 2017

Objective

The current work examined a consecutive series of patients presenting vascular malformations (VMs) and venous lakes (VLs) of the lip and oral mucosa who were treated with transmucosal diode laser applications and assessed over a 1 year period.

Study Design and Methods

Fifty‐nine patients (31 males and 28 females) presenting low‐flow VMs or VLs of the oral cavity were treated transmucosally using a diode laser (with an 830 nm operating wavelength and 1.6 W output power) with a 320 µm diameter flexible fiber. All the lesions were assessed 7 days, 30 days, and 1 year after the laser treatment, and the lesion reduction percentage was scored on a one to five scale. The patients were also asked to assess their pain perception daily during the 7 days following the treatment using a visual analog scale (VAS).

Results

There were no procedure‐related intra‐ or post‐operative complications; only modest pain intensity was reported. Thirty days after the treatment, lesion reduction was described as excellent or good in 52 cases; it was fair or poor in 7. Six patients (F:M ratio 2:4) required a second diode laser application. At the 1 year follow‐up, volume reduction was complete in 48 out of 59 patients; there were five recurrences (F:M ratio 3:2). No relevant gender‐related differences were noted.

Conclusion

The use of diode laser application to treat small oral VMs and VLs was associated to shorter operating times and fewer postoperative complications with respect to the scapel surgery approach. More than one session may nevertheless be required if the anomaly is larger than 10 mm. Lasers Surg. Med. 50:111–116, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Vitamin D in the Parkinson Associated Risk Syndrome (PARS) study
Authors: Fullard Michelle E. , Xie Sharon X. , Marek Ken , Stern Matthew , Jennings Danna , Siderowf Andrew , Willis Allison W. , Chen‐Plotkin Alice S.
Published: September 2017

Background

Lower vitamin D levels have been associated with manifest Parkinson's disease, prompting the hypothesis that vitamin D insufficiency or deficiency may increase risk for PD.

Objectives

To evaluate vitamin D levels in a population at risk for developing PD.

Methods

Plasma vitamin D levels were measured in the Parkinson Associated Risk Syndrome Study, a cohort of asymptomatic individuals, some of whom are at high risk for PD. Vitamin D levels were compared between subjects at high risk for PD (hyposmia and dopamine transporter scan deficit) versus all others and examined for correlations with dopaminergic system integrity.

Results

Mean vitamin D levels did not differ between groups, with a level of 27.8 ng/mL (standard deviation = 12.0) in the high‐risk group versus 24.7 ng/mL (standard deviation = 9.0) in all others (P = 0.09). Vitamin D levels did not associate with putaminal dopamine transporter uptake.

Conclusions

Our data from the asymptomatic Parkinson Associated Risk Syndrome cohort do not support the hypothesis that chronic vitamin D insufficiency threatens dopaminergic system integrity, contributing to PD pathogenesis. © 2017 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Optically controlled on‐coil amplifier with RF monitoring feedback
Authors: Gudino Natalia , de Zwart Jacco A. , Duan Qi , Dodd Stephen J. , Murphy‐Boesch Joe , van Gelderen Peter , Duyn Jeff H.
Published: September 2017

Purpose

To develop a new optically controlled on‐coil amplifier that facilitates safe use of multi‐channel radiofrequency (RF) transmission in MRI by real‐time monitoring of signal phase and amplitude.

Methods

Monitoring was carried out with a 4‐channel prototype system by sensing, down sampling, digitizing, and optically transmitting the RF transmit signal to a remote PC to control the amplifiers. Performance was evaluated with benchtop and 7 T MRI experiments.

Results

Monitored amplitude and phase were stable across repetitions and had standard deviations of 0.061 μT and 0.0073 rad, respectively. The feedback system allowed inter‐channel phase and B1 amplitude to be adjusted within two iterations. MRI experiments demonstrated the feasibility of this approach to perform safe and accurate multi‐channel RF transmission and monitoring at high field.

Conclusion

We demonstrated a 4‐channel transceiver system based on optically controlled on‐coil amplifiers with RF signal monitoring and feedback control. The approach allows the safe and precise control of RF transmission fields, required to achieve uniform excitation at high field. Magn Reson Med 79:2833–2841, 2018. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Long‐time stability and asymptotic analysis of the IFE method for the multilayer porous wall model
Authors: Zhang Huili , Wang Kun
Published: September 2017

In this article, we study the long‐time stability and asymptotic behavior of the immersed finite element (IFE) method for the multilayer porous wall model for the drug‐eluting stents. First, with the IFE method for the spatial descretization, and the implicit Euler scheme for the temporal discretization, respectively, we deduce the global stability of fully discrete solution. Then, we investigate the asymptotic behavior of the discrete scheme which reveals that the multilayer porous wall model converges to the corresponding elliptic equation if approaches to a steady‐state in both and norms as . Finally, some numerical experiments are given to verify the theoretical predictions.
Fundraising as a theatrical event
Authors: Weinryb Noomi , Turunen Jaakko
Published: September 2017

This paper introduces and elaborates the notion of fundraising as a theatrical event. By exploring the theatrical setup, as well as social context, of two elite fundraising events that took place at almost the same time and place and for the same cause, the authors disentangle different components that are at play in a fundraising event. The paper shows that a fundraising event needs to align sensory, artistic, and symbolic theatrical levels to convey the desirability of the fundraising cause. In addition, not only the economic but also the social and cultural capitals of the hosts of the event may be of relevance to the fundraising.
Kinetic‐Controlled Formation of Bimetallic Metal–Organic Framework Hybrid Structures
Authors: Guo Wenhan , Xia Wei , Cai Kunting , Wu Yingxiao , Qiu Bin , Liang Zibin , Qu Chong , Zou Ruqiang
Published: September 2017

Heterometallic metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are constructed from two or more kinds of metal ions, while still remaining their original topologies. Due to distinct reaction kinetics during MOF formation, partial distribution of different metals within a single MOF crystal can lead to sophisticated heterogeneous nanostructures. Here, this study reports an investigation of reaction kinetics for different metal ions in a bimetallic MOF system, the ZIF‐8/67 (M(2‐mIM)2, M = Zn for ZIF‐8, and Co for ZIF‐67, 2‐mIM = 2‐methylimidazole), by in situ optical method. Distinct kinetics of the two metals forming single‐component MOFs are revealed, and when both Co and Zn ions are present in the starting solution, homogeneous distributions of the two metals are only achieved at high Co/Zn ratio, while at low Co/Zn ratio concentration gradient from Co‐rich cores to Zn‐rich shells is observed. Further, by adding the two metals in sequence, more sophisticated structures are achieved. Specifically, when Co2+ is added first, ZIF‐67@ZIF‐8/67 core–shell nanocrystals are achieved with tunable core/shell thickness ratio depending on the time intervals; while when Zn2+ is added first, only agglomerates of irregular shape form due to the weak nucleation ability of Zn2+.
New Experimental Technique for Nodularity and Mg Fading Control in Compacted Graphite Iron Production on Laboratory Scale
Authors: Hernando Juan Carlos , Domeij Björn , González Daniel , Amieva José Manuel , Diószegi Attila
Published: September 2017

The narrow production window for compacted graphite iron material (CGI) drastically reduces the possibilities to produce it in small batches outside an industrial environment. This fact hinders laboratory-scale investigations on CGI solidification. This work presents a solution to that issue by introducing an experimental technique to produce graphitic cast iron of the main three families. Samples of a base hypereutectic spheroidal graphite iron (SGI) were re-melted in a resistance furnace under Ar atmosphere. Varying the holding time at 1723 K (1450 °C), graphitic irons ranging from spheroidal to lamellar were produced. Characterization of the graphite morphology evolution, in terms of nodularity as a function of holding time, is presented. The nodularity decay for the SGI region suggests a linear correlation with the holding time. In the CGI region, nodularity deterioration shows a slower rate, concluding with the sudden appearance of lamellar graphite. The fading process of magnesium, showing agreement with previous researchers, is described by means of empirical relations as a function of holding time and nodularity. The results on nodularity fade and number of nodules per unit area fade suggest that both phenomena occur simultaneously during the fading process of magnesium.
Strategic planning for national biomedical big data infrastructure in China
Authors: Wang Zhen , Wang Zefeng , Li Yixue
Published: September 2017

The promise that big data will revolutionize scientific discovery and technology innovation is now being widely recognized. With the explosive growth of biomedical data, life science is being transformed into a digital science in which novel insights are gained from in‐depth data analysis and modeling. Extensive and innovative utilization of biomedical big data is a key to the success of precision medicine. Therefore, constructing a centralized national‐level biomedical big data infrastructure becomes crucial and urgent for China. Such infrastructure should achieve superb capacity of safe data storage, standardized data processing and quality control, systematic data integration across multiple types, and in‐depth data mining and effective data sharing. Full data chain service including information retrieval, knowledge discovery and technology support can be provided to data centers, research institutes and healthcare industries. Relying on Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, agreements have been signed that a main node of the infrastructure will be located in Shanghai, and a backup node will be set up in Guizhou Province. After a construction period of five years, the infrastructure should greatly enhance China’s core competence in collection, interpretation and application of biomedical big data.
THE ARCHAEOLOGY OF PASTORALIST LANDSCAPES IN THE NORTHWESTERN PLAINS
Authors: Bethke Brandi
Published: September 2017

This article examines the extent to which the adoption of the horse created a transition in modes of production from hunting and gathering to nomadic pastoralism by tracing the horse's impact on Blackfoot settlement patterns and landscape use during the Precontact and Postcontact periods on the Northwestern Plains. While changes in hunting techniques, raiding frequencies, and certain social implications such as status and wealth differentiation have been studied from an ethnohistoric perspective, less work has been done to trace the subtle changes to patterns of landscape use that may have directly resulted from the adoption of horse husbandry by the Blackfoot people. This study applies Geographical Information Systems (GIS) technology to broadly distributed Precontact- and Contact-period archaeological sites of Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Montana to reveal the role of horse husbandry on landscape use in the Northwestern Plains. This research expands on previous ethnohistorical work, while also contributing a new, material dimension to the dynamics of this transition at various spatial scales.
Hegel: A Dialetheist? Truth and Contradiction in Hegel’s Logic
Authors: Bordignon Michela
Published: September 2017

The article aims to show that Priest wrongly associates Hegel’s dialectic with his dialetheism. Even if Priest correctly argues that the notion of contradiction in Hegel’s logic is a logical one and that contradiction is meant to be true, Hegel goes a long way beyond Priest’s dialetheism insofar as he is not committed to a dialetheist conception of a three truth-values logic. I start my analysis with a brief introductory overview of the dialetheist’s thesis of the truth of contradiction. Then, in the first part of the article, I show that Hegel’s notion of contradiction can be equated with a logical contradiction and that Hegel argues that some contradictions are true. In the second part of the paper I show that Hegel’s thesis of the truth of contradiction is different from Priest’s, because Hegel endorses a developmental conception of truth which allows him to account for complex and dynamic properties of reality in a way that Priest’s does not allow.
New Human Rights Concept for Old African Problems: An Analysis of the Challenges of Introducing and Implementing Indigenous Rights in Africa
Authors: Tamuno Paul
Published: September 2017

The adoption by some peoples in Africa of the indigenous rights concept has brought about new challenges regarding the application of the concept to these peoples. The indigenous rights concept was shaped by the colonial experiences of indigenous peoples in the Americas and Australasia. The international understanding of the concept pre-supposes the existence of a set of group rights belonging to peoples who are descendants of the earlier inhabitants of the territory on which a state is located, in contrast to other citizens of that state who are considered colonial settlers. The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights has attempted to overcome this challenge by evolving a description of indigenousness for Africa. This article argues that, although the conceptual challenges that flow from the foreign origin of the concept have not been fully overcome, the African Commission's description has successfully located Africa within the global indigenous rights framework.