bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determinants of seasonal changes in availability of food patches for elephants (Loxodonta africana) in a semi-arid African savanna
Authors: Clegg Bruce W. , O’Connor Timothy G.
Published: June 2017

Loss of biodiversity caused by impact of elephants (Loxodonta africana) on African woodlands may require a management response, but any action should be based on an understanding of why elephants choose to utilise trees destructively. Comprehension of elephant feeding behaviour requires consideration of the relative value of the plant groups they may potentially consume. Profitability of available food is partly determined by the time to locate a food patch and, therefore, as a foundation for understanding the influence of food availability on diet selection, key controls on the density of grass, forb, and browse patches were investigated across space and time in a semi-arid African savanna. Density of food patches changed seasonally because plant life-forms required different volumes of soil water to produce green forage; and woody plants and forbs responded to long-term changes in soil moisture, while grasses responded to short-term moisture pulses. Soil texture, structure of woody vegetation and fire added further complexity by altering the soil water thresholds required for production of green forage. Interpolating between regularly-timed, ground-based measurements of food density by using modelled soil water as the predictor in regression equations may be a feasible method of quantifying food available to elephants in complex savanna environments.
A new species ofTriteSimon, 1885 (Araneae: Salticidae) from New Zealand, with remarks onTriterelationships and radiation
Authors: Patoleta Barbara , Żabka Marek
Published: June 2017

A species known from earlier behavioural studies as “Holoplatys sp.”, is described asTrite pollardisp. nov. Within the genusTrite, two species groups are distinguished: theplaniceps-group (found in New Caledonia, New Zealand, Lord Howe Island and Norfolk Island) and theincognita-group (limited to New Zealand). The three alternative scenarios of theTriteorigin, relationships and radiation in New Zealand, New Caledonia and Lord Howe Island are discussed. Three species are considered to be excluded fromTrite.
MEK inhibitors induce Akt activation and drug resistance by suppressing negative feedback ERK‐mediated HER2 phosphorylation at Thr701
Authors: Chen Chia‐Hung , Hsia Te‐Chun , Yeh Ming‐Hsin , Chen Tsung‐Wei , Chen Yun‐Ju , Chen Jung‐Tsu , Wei Ya‐Ling , Tu Chih‐Yen , Huang Wei‐Chien
Published: June 2017

Targeting the MEK/ERK pathway has been viewed as a promising strategy for cancer therapy. However, MEK inhibition leads to the compensatory PI3K/AKT activation and thus contributes to the desensitization of cancer cells to MEK inhibitors. The underlying molecular mechanism of this event is not yet understood. In this study, our data showed that the induction of Akt activity by MEK inhibitors was specifically observed in HER2‐positive breast cancer cells. Silence of HER2, or overexpression of HER2 kinase‐dead mutant, prevents the induction of Akt activation in response to MEK inhibition, indicating HER2 as a critical regulator for this event. Furthermore, HER2 Thr701 was demonstrated as a direct phosphorylation target of ERK1/2. Inhibition of this specific phosphorylation prolonged the dimerization of HER2 with EGFR in a clathrin‐dependent manner, leading to the enhanced activation of HER2 and EGFR tyrosine kinase and their downstream Akt pathway. These results suggest that suppression of ERK‐mediated HER2 Thr701 phosphorylation contributes to MEK inhibitor‐induced Akt activation.
Synthesis of β‐Keto Sulfones via Coupling of Aryl/Alkyl Halides, Sulfur Dioxide and Silyl Enolates through Metal‐Free Photoinduced C–X Bond Dissociation
Authors: Gong Xinxing , Ding Yechun , Fan Xiaona , Wu Jie
Published: June 2017

A photoinduced sulfonylative coupling of aryl/alkyl halides, DABCO⋅(SO2)2 (1,4‐diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane‐sulfur dioxide), and silyl enolates under metal‐free conditions has been developed, giving rise to β‐keto sulfones in good yields. This transformation proceeds smoothly at room temperature under ultraviolet irradiation with good tolerance of various functional groups. Aryl iodides/bromides and alkyl halides are all good substrates in the sulfonylative reaction. A plausible mechanism is proposed, which proceeds through a radical process under photoinduced conditions.

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Effect of sol maturation on the preparation of luminescent ormosils
Authors: Liu Xiaobang , Li Wei , Li Xuefei , Wang Ying , Mao Zhengnan , Shen Shukun , Chen Jian Gang , Hu Daodao
Published: June 2017

An UV‐polymerization approach was proposed to construct luminescence organic‐inorganic hybrid. Methacryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane (MAPTMS) was chosen as sol–gel precursor to prepare the host matrix and acrylic europium Eu(AA)3 was used as guest dopants. Structural modifications during irradiation were evident in both the inorganic and organic domains of the hybrid material. The influence of condensation degree of the silicate network on the photopolymerization kinetics of organic moieties was investigated. It appeared that the sol maturation time was of vital importance to the phase homogeneity and optical transparency of materials. To get more efficient copolymerization and higher luminescence intensity of the target ormosils, two key processing factors including incorporation time and entrapping concentration are reported. Incorporation time when acrylic europium was introduced into the matrix during sol maturation is found to be helpful to overcome phase separation. The effect of entrapping concentration of europium(III) compound on the luminescence performance was further studied. Material synthesized by this approach has three advantages: optical transparency with little phase separation, organic and inorganic composite with interpenetrating network, covalent grafting of acrylic europium without luminescent species leakage. This “photopolymerization of molecular grafting” strategy is hopeful to offer a promising development for luminescent ormosil glasses. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45146.
Synthesis, Optoelectronic and Self‐Assembly Properties of Diazadioxaacene Derivatives
Authors: Pan Huahang , Duan Jingdan , Zhai Guixia , Jin Pengcheng , Zhao Xiaohui , Jiang Li , Xiao Jinchong
Published: June 2017

Two novel diazadioxaacene derivatives (ADOP and ADOQ) have been successfully synthesized and characterized. Their single crystal analyses disclose that molecule ADOP forms a twisted topology configuration, whereas ADOQ adopts reclining‐chair architecture. Both of them emit strong blue fluorescence in organic solvents. Moreover, they can self‐assemble to form regular nanobelts and nanowires, respectively, via a simple surfactant‐assisted method.
One vowel or two? Diphthongs, digraphs, ligatures, and diaereses, oh my!
Authors: Neumann Paul E.
Published: June 2017

This is the first in a short series about orthography in anatomical Latin. Although phonology is an important aspect of diphthongs and digraphs, the focus here is on spelling, not the more complicated topic of pronunciation. Recommendations are made for standard spellings of words that contain or may appear to contain diphthongs in Latin anatomical words or their ancient Greek sources. Ligatures and diaereses (typographical symbols that were developed after the classical period) are not recommended for use in anatomical Latin terms. Clin. Anat. 30:1013–1016, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Formation of BiFeO3 from a Binary Oxide Superlattice Grown by Atomic Layer Deposition
Authors: Plokhikh Aleksandr V. , Falmbigl Matthias , Golovina Iryna S. , Akbashev Andrew R. , Karateev Igor A. , Presnyakov Mikhail Y. , Vasiliev Alexander L. , Spanier Jonathan E.
Published: June 2017

We report on the growth of polycrystalline BiFeO3 thin films on SiO2/Si(001) and Pt(111) substrates by atomic layer deposition using the precursors ferrocene, triphenyl‐bismuth, and ozone. By growing alternating layers of Fe2O3 and Bi2O3, we employ a superlattice approach and demonstrate an efficient control of the cation stoichiometry. The superlattice decay and the resulting formation of polycrystalline BiFeO3 films are studied by in situ X‐ray diffraction, in situ X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. No intermediate ternary phases are formed and BiFeO3 crystallization is initiated in the Bi2O3 layers at 450 °C following the diffusion‐driven intermixing of the cations. Our study of the BiFeO3 formation provides an insight into the complex interplay between microstructural evolution, grain growth, and bismuth oxide evaporation, with implications for optimization of ferroelectric properties.
Structural Variation of Carbazole Derivatives for Plastic Scintillation Applications
Authors: Montbarbon Eva , Sguerra Fabien , Bertrand Guillaume H. V. , Gaillard Sylvain , Renaud Jean‐Luc , Pansu Robert B. , Hamel Matthieu
Published: June 2017

The preparation of various plastic scintillators with embedded carbazole moieties is reported. As a result of their versatility and advantageous luminescence properties, this system is a candidate of choice for such applications. Through careful system design, the carbazole in the system can have a variety of functions, for example as the polymer matrix, as the primary fluorophore or as the secondary fluorophore. For systems in which carbazole is embedded in the polymer matrix, poly(Nvinylcarbazole) (PVK) and poly(styrene‐co‐N‐vinylcarbazole) were prepared by bulk radical polymerization. For application as a primary or secondary fluorophore, N‐(2‐ethylhexyl)carbazole (EHCz) is a particularly suitable molecule. When used at a low concentration it can act either as a primary fluorophore (when coupled with 1,4‐bis(5‐phenyloxazol‐2‐yl) (POPOP) or bis‐(2‐methylstyryl)benzene (bis‐MSB) as the wavelength shifter), or as both primary and secondary fluorophore if the concentration inside the polymer matrix is high. The performance of EHCz was compared with the related molecule N‐(ethyl)carbazole. Finally, another carbazole‐containing molecule 2,4,5,6tetrakis(carbazol‐9‐yl)‐1,3‐dicyanobenzene was loaded in a polymer matrix as the secondary fluorophore. Scintillation results show its efficiency to shift the scintillation response to wavelengths close to 500 nm. The preparation and primary photophysical properties of each of these new plastic scintillators was reported, in addition to the scintillation properties of each. These results highlight the potential application of carbazole derivatives as fluorophores for nuclear detection.
A Perylene‐Based Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon Electron Donor for a Highly Efficient Solar Cell Dye
Authors: Wang Junting , Wu Heng , Jin Linrui , Zhang Jing , Yuan Yi , Wang Peng
Published: June 2017

The continuing efforts to develop novel polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and exploit them as building blocks to create organic donor–acceptor (D–A) dyes with impressive excited‐state features should offer an excellent means by which to improve the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). To this end, a nonacyclic aromatic hydrocarbon, N‐annulated benzoindenopentaphene (NBIP) was tethered with multiple solubilizing groups, including NBIPs with one 2‐hexyldecyl, with one 2‐hexyldecyloxy, and with four 4‐hexylphenyl substituents. The side‐ and end‐chain‐functionalized NBIPs can be conveniently prepared in excellent yield, and further cross‐coupled with 4‐(7‐ethynylbenzo[c][1,2,5]thiadiazol‐4‐yl)benzoic acid to afford a metal‐free D–A dye, which achieves a high power conversion efficiency of 12.6 % under AM1.5G illumination in DSSCs without need for any coadsorbent.
Efficacy of a high‐observation protocol in major head and neck cancer surgery: A prospective study
Authors: Barber Brittany , Harris Jeffrey , Shillington Cameron , Rychlik Shannon , Dort Joseph , Meier Michael , Estey Angela , Elwi Adam , Wickson Patty , Buss Michael , Zygun David , Ansari Kal , Biron Vincent , O'Connell Daniel , Seikaly Hadi
Published: June 2017

Background

The purpose of this study was to optimize an existing clinical care pathway (CCP) for head and neck cancer with a high‐observation protocol (HOP) and to determine the effect on length of intensive care unit (ICU) admission and length of stay in hospital (LOS).

Methods

The HOP mandated initiation of spontaneous breathing trials before the conclusion of the surgery, weaning of sedation, and limiting mechanical ventilation. All patients with head and neck cancer undergoing primary surgery on the HOP were compared to a historical cohort regarding length of ICU admission, ICU readmissions, and LOS.

Results

Ninety‐six and 52 patients were observed in “historical” and “HOP” cohorts. The length of ICU admission (1.9 vs 1.2 days; p = .021), LOS (20.3 vs 14.1 days; p = .020), and ICU readmissions (10.4% vs 1.9%; p = .013) were significantly decreased in the “HOP” cohort.

Conclusion

Rapid weaning of sedation and limiting mechanical ventilation may contribute to a shorter length of ICU admission and LOS, as well as decreased ICU readmissions. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 39: 1689–1695, 2016
A cross‐sectional analysis of Kenyan postabortion care services using a nationally representative sample
Authors: Mutua Michael M. , Achia Thomas N.O. , Maina Beatrice W. , Izugbara Chimaraoke O.
Published: June 2017

Objective

To assess quality of postabortion care (PAC) offered by Kenyan healthcare facilities.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey was conducted using data from the Incidence and Magnitude of Unsafe Abortions study, conducted among 326 PAC‐providing healthcare facilities throughout Kenya from March 13 to June 30, 2012. Descriptive results with weighted proportions and an ordered probit model were used.

Results

Overall, 408 (41.8%) first‐trimester PAC cases were treated using appropriate technology versus 826 (82.6%) second‐trimester cases. Private healthcare facilities lagged behind public healthcare facilities on the use of appropriate technology: 264 (47.5%) public and 144 (33.1%) private facilities used such technology for first‐trimester abortion, and 664 (89.6%) public versus 162 (68.8%) private for second‐trimester abortions). Most healthcare facilities (251, 70.7%) had at least one provider trained in PAC. A total of 273 (80.7%) healthcare facilities reported offering contraception to all PAC patients, mainly short‐acting methods. Delivery of PAC services depended on the availability of separate evacuation room (public level 2–3: odds ratio [OR] 22.93; public level 4–6: OR 77.14), and the number of family planning methods offered within the facility (public level 2–3: OR 1.38; public level 4–6 OR 1.57; private level 2–3: OR 2.27; private level 4–5: 4.89).

Conclusion

Effective monitoring of PAC services, particularly among private healthcare facilities, might improve overall quality of services.
Decomposing economic mobility transition matrices
Authors: Richey Jeremiah , Rosburg Alicia
Published: June 2017

We present a decomposition method for transition matrices to identify forces driving the persistence of economic status across generations. The method decomposes differences between an estimated transition matrix and a benchmark transition matrix into portions attributable to differences in characteristics between individuals from different households (a composition effect) and portions attributable to differing returns to these characteristics (a structure effect). A detailed decomposition based on copula theory further decomposes the composition effect into portions attributable to specific characteristics and their interactions. To examine potential drivers of economic persistence in the USA, we apply the method to white males from the 1979 US National Longitudinal Survey of Youth. Depending on the transition matrix entry of interest, differing characteristics between sons from different households explain between 40% and 70% of observed income persistence, with differing returns for these characteristics explaining the remaining gap. Further, detailed decompositions reveal significant heterogeneity in the role played by specific characteristics (e.g., education) across the income distribution.
Age‐related spontaneous lumbar intervertebral disc degeneration in a mouse model
Authors: Ohnishi Takashi , Sudo Hideki , Tsujimoto Takeru , Iwasaki Norimasa
Published: June 2017

The pathogenesis of intervertebral disc degeneration is unclear, but it is a major cause of several spinal diseases. Animal models have historically provided an appropriate benchmark for understanding the human spine. However, there is little information about when intervertebral disc degeneration begins in the mouse or regarding the relationship between magnetic resonance imaging and histological findings. The aim for this study was to obtain information about age‐related spontaneous intervertebral disc degeneration in the mouse lumbar spine using magnetic resonance imaging and a histological score regarding when the intervertebral disc degeneration started and how rapidly it progressed, as well as how our histological score detected the degeneration. The magnetic resonance imaging index yielded a moderate correlation with our Age‐related model score. The Pfirrmann grade and magnetic resonance imaging index had moderate correlations with age. However, our Age‐related model score had a high correlation with age. Intervertebral disc level was not a significant variable for the severity of disc degeneration. Both Pfirrmann grade and the Age‐related model score were higher in the ≥14‐month‐old group than in the 6‐month‐old group. The present results indicated that mild but significant intervertebral disc degeneration occurred in 14‐month‐old mice, and the degree of degeneration progressed slowly, reaching a moderate to severe condition for 22‐month‐old mice. At least a 14‐month follow‐up is mandatory for evaluating spontaneous age‐related mouse intervertebral disc degeneration. The histological classification score can precisely detect the gradual progression of age‐related spontaneous intervertebral disc degeneration in the mouse lumbar spine, and is appropriate for evaluating it. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:224–232, 2018.
Luminescence dating of Late Pleistocene eruptions in the Eifel Volcanic Field, Germany
Authors: Schmidt Christoph , Schaarschmidt Maria , Kolb Thomas , Büchel Georg , Richter Daniel , Zöller Ludwig
Published: June 2017

Robust chronologies of Late Pleistocene and Holocene volcanic eruptions are vital for hazard analysis but accurate and precise dating of these events is often difficult. Here we apply various luminescence techniques to quartz and polymineral extracts from heated crustal xenoliths enclosed in scoria and volcanically heated bedrock in the Quaternary Eifel Volcanic Field (EVF), Germany. Consistent results from red thermoluminescence (RTL) and optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) of quartz and from post‐infrared infrared stimulated luminescence of polymineral material demonstrate complete luminescence signal resetting during lava emplacement and sufficient signal stability. RTL and OSL age underestimation of one sample with independently known age from the lava contact zone could be eliminated by annealing before laboratory regenerative irradiation. The average luminescence age of 33.6 ± 2.4 ka for the Wartgesberg eruption is in good agreement with independent age control, while the average age of 15.5 ± 1.1 ka for the Facher Höhe scoria cone is much younger than previously assumed. This result represents the third youngest known eruption in the EVF. Our new data are in line with the hypothesized climate‐controlled triggering of Eifel volcanism and confirm that active volcanism related to asthenosphere upwelling migrates from NW to SE in the EVF.
Nerve growth factor and basic fibroblast growth factor promote reinnervation by nerve−muscle−endplate grafting
Authors: Mu Liancai , Sobotka Stanislaw , Chen Jingming , Nyirenda Themba
Published: June 2017

Introduction

This study was designed to test whether exogenous application of nerve growth factor (NGF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (FGF‐2) to muscles reinnervated with nerve−muscle−endplate band grafting (NMEG) could promote specific outcomes.

Methods

The right sternomastoid muscle in adult rats was experimentally denervated and immediately reinnervated by implanting an NMEG pedicle from the ipsilateral sternohyoid muscle. A fibrin sealant containing NGF and FGF‐2 was focally applied to the implantation site. Maximal tetanic force, muscle weight, regenerated axons, and motor endplates were analyzed 3 months after treatment.

Results

Mean tetanic force, wet muscle weight, and number of regenerated axons in the treated muscles were 91%, 92%, and 84% of the contralateral controls, respectively. The majority of endplates (86%) in the treated muscles were reinnervated by regenerated axons.

Discussion

Focal administration of NGF and FGF‐2 promotes efficacy of the NMEG technique. Muscle Nerve 57: 449–459, 2018
Reliability of a novel approach for quadriceps motor point assessment
Authors: Weiss Ada , Glaviano Neal R. , Resch Jacob , Saliba Susan
Published: June 2017

Introduction: We studied the ability of clinicians to identify quadriceps motor points using a transcutaneous electrical stimulation unit (TENS). Methods: Twenty‐two certified athletic trainers and 1 expert‐rater identified the 7 motor points of the quadriceps at 2 time‐points separated by 1 week. The difference was calculated between where each participant and the expert‐rater identified each motor point using an x–y coordinate system. Bland–Altman plots were used to compare differences between 2 testing sessions. Results: No differences were observed between participants and the expert‐rater for motor point location. The smallest variability in the limits of agreements were observed in the distal vastus medialis oblique (–1.89 to 1.86 cm) and proximal vastus lateralis (–1.61 to 2.35 cm). Discussion: Our results suggest the utilization of a TENS unit may be 1 way to identify quadriceps motor points to improve electrical stimulation applications. The smallest limits of agreement were over the most common quadriceps electrical stimulation electrode positions. Muscle Nerve 57: E1–E7, 2018
Processing and properties of pineapple leaf fibers‐polypropylene composites prepared by twin‐screw extrusion
Authors: Berzin Françoise , Amornsakchai Taweechai , Lemaitre Alain , Di Giuseppe Erika , Vergnes Bruno
Published: June 2017

Pineapple leaf fiber (PALF) is an agricultural waste, very abundant in some countries of East Asia (India, Thailand, and Philippines). Owing to its intrinsic mechanical properties, it could be used as a reinforcing fiber for thermoplastic polymers. In this article, PALF was used to prepare polypropylene‐based composites by twin‐screw extrusion. The variation of the fiber dimensions (length, diameter, and aspect ratio) induced by the compounding process was analyzed. PALF suffer from a significant reduction in length, but the bundles are very difficult to separate and their diameter remains almost constant. The change in fiber length and aspect ratio along the screw profile showed an exponential decrease, as already observed for other lignocellulosic fibers. The mechanical properties of composites prepared with 20 wt% PALF fibers show an increase in Young's modulus (+46%) and stress at break (+12%), but a strong decrease in elongation at break (−98%). These results confirm the potential value of this agricultural waste as effective reinforcing fiber for polymer composites. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:4115–4122, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Distribution‐free mixed cumulative sum‐exponentially weighted moving average control charts for detecting mean shifts
Authors: Malela‐Majika Jean‐Claude , Rapoo Eeva
Published: June 2017

In this paper, we propose distribution‐free mixed cumulative sum‐exponentially weighted moving average (CUSUM‐EWMA) and exponentially weighted moving average‐cumulative sum (EWMA‐CUSUM) control charts based on the Wilcoxon rank‐sum test for detecting process mean shifts without any distributional assumption of the underlying quality process. The performances of the proposed charts are measured through the average run‐length, relative mean index, average extra quadratic loss, and average ratio of the average run‐length and performance comparison index. It is found that the proposed charts perform better than its counterparts considered in this paper under non‐normal distributions and outperform the classical mixed CUSUM‐EWMA and EWMA‐CUSUM charts in many cases under the normal distribution. The effect of the phase I sample size is also investigated on the phase II performance of the proposed charts. A numerical illustration is given to demonstrate the implementation and simplicity of the proposed charts.
Rational Design of LaNiO3/Carbon Composites as Outstanding Platinum‐Free Photocathodes in Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells With Enhanced Catalysis for the Triiodide Reduction Reaction
Authors: Wang Wei , Liu Yu , Zhong Yi Jun , Wang Lianzhou , Zhou Wei , Wang Shaobin , Tadé Moses O. , Shao Zongping
Published: June 2017

In many photovoltaics (PVs), including dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), triiodide/iodide (I3−/I−) redox couple plays an important role, and an active and stable electrocatalyst is required for promoting I3− reduction reaction (IRR) to minimize efficiency losses. Platinum (Pt) is the state‐of‐the‐art electrocatalyst for IRR, which unfortunately suffers from high cost and poor stability. Herein, strongly coupled LaNiO3 perovskite/carbon composites are developed for the first time as highly efficient, stable and low‐cost electrocatalysts for IRR to enable better DSSCs. High‐energy ball milling of crystallized LaNiO3 with carbon material is applied for the facile synthesis of LaNiO3/carbon composites. This ball‐milling process simultaneously leads to partial reduction of LaNiO3 by carbon with the creation of oxygen vacancies inside the perovskite oxide lattice, a decrease in LaNiO3 particle size and the creation of strong coupling between LaNiO3 and carbon. Particularly, DSSC with LaNiO3/multi‐walled carbon nanotubes photocathode delivers a high power conversion efficiency of 9.81% with an attractive enhancement of 21% compared with Pt electrocatalyst, superior to most state‐of‐the‐art highly efficient Pt‐free photocathodes in DSSCs. LaNiO3 or carbon alone demonstrates a much poorer performance. Moreover, LaNiO3/carbon composites demonstrate excellent operational stability. This study highlights the extended applications of perovskites in other I3−/I−‐mediated PVs, electrochromic devices or batteries.
Superselective Transarterial Chemoembolization as an Alternative to Surgery in Symptomatic/Enlarging Liver Hemangiomas
Authors: Özden İlgin , Poyanlı Arzu , Önal Yılmaz , Demir Ali Aslan , Hoş Gültekin , Acunaş Bülent
Published: June 2017

Background

Transarterial embolization of liver hemangiomas has not been considered to be consistently effective.

Methods

The charts of 25 patients who underwent superselective transarterial chemoembolization with the bleomycin–lipiodol emulsion were evaluated retrospectively.

Results

Twenty‐two patients had abdominal pain; asymptomatic/vaguely symptomatic enlargement was the treatment indication in three patients. A single session was conducted in 17 patients, two sessions in 7 and three sessions in one. After the first session, lesion volume decreased by median (range) 51% (10–92%) from median (range) 634 (226–8435) to 372(28–4710) cm3 (p < 0.01), after a median period of 4 months (range 2–8). A second session was performed in eight patients (median (range) initial volume 1276 (441–8435) cm3) with persistent complaints and/or large lesions receiving feeders from both right and left hepatic arteries (staged treatment). Median (range) lesion size decreased further from 806 (245–4710) to 464 (159–2150) cm3 (p < 0.01). Three patients experienced a postembolization syndrome that persisted after the first week. Seventeen of the 22 symptomatic patients (77%) reported resolution or marked amelioration of complaints. Regrowth after initial regression was not observed during median (range) 14 (8–39) months of follow‐up (n:18).

Conclusion

Transarterial chemoembolization with the bleomycin–lipiodol emulsion is a potential alternative to surgery for symptomatic/enlarging liver hemangiomas. Volume reduction is universal, and symptom control is satisfactory. Centrally located and very large (>1000 cm3) lesions may require two sessions.
Bushmeat consumption and environmental awareness in rural households: a case study around Taï National Park, Côte d'Ivoire
Authors: Kouassi Joseph A. K. , Normand Emmanuelle , Koné Inza , Boesch Christophe
Published: June 2017

Consumption of bushmeat, a staple food of people living in the vicinity of protected areas, is a challenge for the conservation of wildlife. The underlying factors driving this consumption are, however, relatively understudied, particularly among rural households, and improved understanding would facilitate the development of conservation strategies. We therefore aimed to identify the factors that influence bushmeat consumption in rural households to the west of Taï National Park, in Côte d'Ivoire. We carried out enquiries in a total of 144 rural households in 20 localities during July–December 2012. Bushmeat, the majority of which comprised rodents and bovids, accounted for 13% of the animal protein consumed in these households. This consumption was significantly higher in households in which poverty was more acute (low annual income and more dependent children). We found that repeated awareness campaigns involving theatre performances and/or film screenings (multimedia campaigns) contributed to a decrease in bushmeat consumption. This decrease exceeded 62% after exposure to four multimedia campaigns. We highlight the importance of awareness campaigns for reducing consumption of wild animals, and demonstrate the importance of recurring multimedia campaigns to maximize the impact of such conservation activities in rural communities.
The use of English in the social network of a student in South China
Authors: Botha Werner
Published: June 2017

Many Chinese university students are bilingual or multilingual, increasingly switching between various Chinese language varieties and the English language (Bolton, 2013; Botha, 2014, Bolton & Botha, 2015). Bolton and Botha (2015) reported that undergraduate students at a national university in China used English for a range of social activities including ‘reading’, ‘Internet searches’, ‘online socialising’ and ‘socializing with friends’, among others. There is a need to investigate the extent to which these students actually use English in these contexts, especially in the productive use of the English language in their social lives. In examining such practices, the following questions are addressed in this article: (i) How is the English language used in the personal life of a student in Southern China; (ii) What are some of the functions of spoken and written English-Chinese code-mixing and switching between members of this student's social network; and (iii) What kind of social information is conveyed through the use of English in this student's social network? In order to examine the sociolinguistic reality of language use by these students, this article explores some of the social dynamics underlying the emerging use of English-Chinese code-switching and mixing within a particular social network: that of ‘Natalie’, a Chinese university student who speaks Putonghua (Mandarin, as a first language) and members within her social network, conversing within a range of modalities. This case study focuses in particular on the use of English-Chinese code-switching and mixing practices, and the extent to which these communicative practices are shaped by various social factors, ranging from the status of English as a perceived ‘international’ language, to aspects of stance and the affective quality of the relationships between members in this social network, to the intertextual nature of many of the linguistic instances to these practices.
Single-crystal structure analysis of designer drugs circulating in the Japanese drug market by the synchrotron radiation X-ray diffraction
Authors: Hashimoto Takashi , Hanajiri Ruri , Yasuda Nobuhiro , Nakamura Yuki , Mizuno Nobuhiro , Honda Sadao , Hayakawa Shinjiro , Nishiwaki Yoshinori , Kimura Shigeru
Published: June 2017

Over the past 20 years, many designer drugs derived from controlled substances have been widely distributed as easily available psychoactive substances and have become a serious problem in Japan. In order to determine the absolute structures of four new designer drugs derived from medicines (methylphenidate and phenmetrazine) X-ray single-crystal structure analyses were performed using the BL26B1 beamline of synchrotron radiation facility SPring-8. The results show that the molecular configuration of these designer drugs (having two asymmetric carbons), which were distributed in the illegal drug market had threo-forms as found for methylphenidate and phenmetrazine.
THE GESELL CONNECTION DURING THE GREAT DEPRESSION
Authors: Patalano Rosario
Published: June 2017

In the current recession, the proposal of negative nominal interest has received widespread attention, not only in the academic world. The negative interest rate issue was originally developed by Silvio Gesell (1862–1930), a German merchant, self-taught economist, and social reformer. In his main work,The Natural Economic Order, Gesell offered a theoretical basis for the practical implementation of the negative interest rate. This proposal, generally known as the “stamped money plan,” was favorably commented upon by two outstanding twentieth-century economists, Irving Fisher and John Maynard Keynes, and put into practice during the Great Depression. In this paper I propose a reading of Gesell’s theory of money from the point of view of quantity theory, giving prominence to elements of affinity with Fisher’s monetary theory. This re-examination entails revision of the opinion on the analytical contribution made by Gesell, who was generally tagged as a typical monetary crank, and proves that his place in the history of economic thought is less marginal than previously thought, reinforcing critical appreciation of him.
A feasibility study for the introduction of micro-enema to improve organ consistency in patients receiving radiotherapy for urinary bladder cancer
Authors: Hutton D. , Callender J. , Hutton N. , Wong H. , Syndikus I.
Published: June 2017

Aims

The aim of the study was to assess the effect on rectal consistency, of introducing a micro-enema in the preparation of patients receiving radiotherapy treatment of urinary bladder cancer.

Materials and methods

The treatment cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) images from patients receiving radiotherapy for bladder cancer were retrospectively assessed. CBCT datasets from nine patients treated without rectal preparation (97 CBCT), and 13 patients (134 CBCT) treated following micro-enema use before planning and treatment were evaluated. CBCT were compared with the planning computed tomography for rectal status, rectal diameter and presence of gas.

Results

Reproducibility of an empty rectum was achieved in 70% of treatment fractions delivered using an enema protocol compared with 33% of fractions delivered without preparation. In total, 10% of fractions were delivered with the presence of faeces or faeces and gas, compared with 46% of fractions for the non-intervention group. Enemas did not affect the proportion of fractions delivered with gas, however, where gas was present, 65% of CBCT fractions had <5% gas for patients using enemas compared with 32% without.

Findings

The use of a micro-enema before planning scan and each fraction was well tolerated and proved effective in managing and reducing inter-fraction variations in rectal volume and contents.
The collaboration of general practitioners and nurses in primary care: a comparative analysis of concepts and practices in Slovenia and Spain
Authors: Hämel Kerstin , Vössing Carina
Published: June 2017

Aim

A comparative analysis of concepts and practices of GP-nurse collaborations in primary health centres in Slovenia and Spain.

Background

Cross-professional collaboration is considered a key element for providing high-quality comprehensive care by combining the expertise of various professions. In many countries, nurses are also being given new and more extensive responsibilities. Implemented concepts of collaborative care need to be analysed within the context of care concepts, organisational structures, and effective collaboration.

Methods

Background review of primary care concepts (literature analysis, expert interviews), and evaluation of collaboration in ‘best practice’ health centres in certain regions of Slovenia and Spain. Qualitative content analysis of expert interviews, presentations, observations, and group discussions with professionals and health centre managers.

Findings

In Slovenian health centres, the collaboration between GPs and nurses has been strongly shaped by their organisation in separate care units and predominantly case-oriented functions. Conventional power structures between professions hinder effective collaboration. The introduction of a new cross-professional primary care concept has integrated advanced practice nurses into general practice. Conventional hierarchies still exist, but a shared vision of preventive care is gradually strengthening attitudes towards team-oriented care. Formal regulations or incentives for teamwork have yet to be implemented. In Spain, health centres were established along with a team-based care concept that encompasses close physician–nurse collaboration and an autonomous role for nurses in the care process. Nurses collaborate with GPs on more equal terms with conflicts centring on professional disagreements. Team development structures and financial incentives for team achievements have been implemented, encouraging teams to generate their own strategies to improve teamwork.

Conclusion

Clearly defined structures, shared visions of care and team development are important for implementing and maintaining a good collaboration. Central prerequisites are advanced nursing education and greater acceptance of advanced nursing practice.
Mysterious Particle Beams Found over Jupiter’s Poles
Authors: Zastrow Mark
Published: June 2017

The unexpected character of the beams, revealed by NASA’s Juno spacecraft, suggests that the processes that produce Jupiter’s auroras are unlike those on Earth.
Niche comparison among two invasive leafminer species and their parasitoid Opius biroi: implications for competitive displacement
Authors: Xing Zhenlong , Zhang Linya , Wu Shengyong , Yi Hao , Gao Yulin , Lei Zhongren
Published: June 2017

Fundamental to competitive displacement in biological invasion is that exotic species occupy the ecological niches of native species in novel environments. Contrasting outcomes of competitive displacement have occurred between Liriomyza trifolii and L. sativae in different geographical regions following their introduction. Various factors have been advanced in an attempt to explain these different competitive outcomes, although none of these explanations have addressed the effects of niche differences. We conducted field cage experiments to compare the feeding and habitat niches of the two leafminer species and their primary parasitoid, Opius biroi, when occurring together on kidney bean. A wider spatiotemporal niche breadth was found in L. trifolii (0.3670) than in L. sativae (0.3496). With respect to the parasitoid, the proportional niche similarity between L. sativae and the parasitoid was 0.3936 but only 0.0835 for L. trifolii, while similar results were found for niche overlap, indicating that stronger trailing behaviour and parasitic effects of O. biroi occurred in L. sativae. In conclusion, L. trifolii has outperformed L. sativae in occupying the ecological niche and is superior to L. sativae in avoiding parasitization by the pupal parasitoid, O. biroi.
Opposite-view digital holographic microscopy with autofocusing capability
Authors: Zheng Juanjuan , Gao Peng , Shao Xiaopeng
Published: June 2017

Digital holographic microscopy (DHM) has its intrinsic ability to refocusing a sample by numerically propagating an object wave from its hologram plane to its image plane. In this paper opposite-view digital holographic microscopy (OV-DHM) is demonstrated for autofocusing, namely, digitally determining the location of the image plane, and refocusing the object wave without human intervention. In OV-DHM, a specimen is illuminated from two sides in a 4π-alike configuration, and two holograms are generated and recorded by a CCD camera along two orthogonal polarization orientations. The image plane of the sample is determined by finding the minimal variation between the two object waves, and consequently refocusing is performed by propagating the waves to the image plane. Furthermore, the field of view (FOV) of OV-DHM can be extended by combining the two object waves which have an angle in-between. The proposed technique also has the potential to reduce speckle noise and out-of-focus background.
The Incidence, Risk Factors and Outcomes of Postoperative Acute Kidney Injury in Neurosurgical Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Deng Yujun , Yuan Jie , Chi Ruibin , Ye Heng , Zhou Dong , Wang Sheng , Mai Cong , Nie Zhiqiang , Wang Lin , Zhai Yiling , Gao Lu , Zhang Danqing , Hu Linhui , Deng Yiyu , Chen Chunbo
Published: June 2017

We investigated the incidence, perioperative risk factors, and outcomes of postoperative acute kidney injury (AKI) in neurosurgical critically ill patients. A prospective multicenter cohort study was conducted, enrolling adult patients who underwent neurosurgical procedure and admitted to the neurosurgical intensive care units (ICU). Postoperative AKI was diagnosed within 7 days after surgery based on the Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes criteria. Of 624 enrolled patients, postoperative AKI occurred in 84 patients. AKI was associated with increased rates of ICU and in-hospital mortality, postoperative renal replacement therapy, postoperative tracheotomy, and postoperative tracheal reintubation. Patients who developed AKI had higher total ICU costs, prolonged length of hospital and ICU stay, and longer duration of postoperative mechanical ventilation. Multivariate analysis identified postoperative reoperation (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 5.70 [95% CI, 1.61–20.14]), postoperative concentration of serum cystatin C (adjusted OR 4.53 [95% CI, 1.98–10.39]), use of mannitol during operation (adjusted OR 1.97 [95% CI, 1.13–3.43]), postoperative APACHE II score (adjusted OR 1.11 [95% CI, 1.06–1.16]), and intraoperative estimated blood loss (adjusted OR 1.04 [95% CI, 1.00–1.08]) as independent risk factors for postoperative AKI. Postoperative AKI in neurosurgical critically ill cohort is prevalent and associated with adverse in-hospital outcomes.
Synthesis of 2,6-Substituted 7-(Het)aryl-7-deazapurine Nucleobases (2,4-Disubstituted 5-(Het)aryl-pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidines)
Authors: Sabat Nazarii , Smoleń Sabina , Nauš Petr , Perlíková Pavla , Cebová Magdaléna , Poštová Slavětínská Lenka , Hocek Michal
Published: June 2017

A series of 7-(het)aryl-7-deazapurine nucleobases (5-[(het)aryl]-2,4-disubstituted 7H-pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidines) bearing NH2, OMe, SMe, or Me groups at position 6 and H, NH2, or Me at position 2 were prepared by the aqueous Suzuki–Miyaura cross-coupling reactions from SEM-protected 7-iodo-7-deazapurines with (het)arylboronic acids followed by deprotection. The 6-methoxy derivatives were further transformed into 7-deazahypoxanthines or 7-deazaguanines by O-demethylation reactions. Unlike their ribonucleoside counterparts, the 7-deazapurine nucleobases did not exert any significant cytostatic or antiviral effects.
Synthesis of l-Ribose from d-Ribose by a Stereoconversion through Sequential Lactonization as the Key Transformation
Authors: Rhee Hakjune , Ban Jaeyoung , Shabbir Saira , Lim Minkyung , Lee Byunghoon
Published: June 2017

l-Ribose, a key precursor of various l-nucleosides can only be synthesized from other sugars or other non-sugar precursors. Herein, the study involves the synthesis of naturally rare l-ribose from readily available d-ribose. Though, many synthetic strategies are developed to meet the increasing demands of l-ribose, seeking innovation, a synthesis employing sequential lactonization as the key transformation was explored. This novel conversion involves protection, oxidation, sequential lactonization, reduction with DIBAL-H, and deprotection.
The Effect of Alternate-Day Fasting (ADF) on Weight Loss, Metabolic Parameters and Psychological Characteristics
Authors: Widhalm Kurt , Pöppelmeyer Christina , Helk Oliver
Published: June 2017

Einleitung Alternierendes Fasten (ADF), das heißt Phasen 24-stündiger Nahrungskarenz alternierend mit Tagen normaler Nahrungsaufnahme, wurde immer wieder als mögliche Behandlungsoption für Übergewicht diskutiert. Zur Zeit existieren nur wenige Studien in Hinblick auf dessen Praktikabilität, Effektivität und mögliche unerwünschte Komplikationen wie Nährstoffmängel oder anderer Nebenwirkungen. Das Ziel der hier beschriebenen Studie war es, zu untersuchen, ob ADF eine sichere und effektive Methode zur Gewichtsreduktion darstellt, die auch über einen längeren Zeitraum beibehalten werden kann, und ob im Studienzeitraum psychologische oder physische Nebenwirkungen auftreten.

Methoden Wir führten eine prospektive Pilotstudie mit 15 übergewichtigen oder adipösen, aber sonst gesunden, ProbandInnen (älter als 18 Jahre, BMI > 27 kg/m²) durch. Alle ProbandInnen wurden instruiert, sich für einen Zeitraum von 12 Wochen ADF zu unterziehen. Anthropometrische Messungen, Blutdruck- und Bioimpedanzmessungen sowie computerbasierte psychologische Tests wurden durchgeführt. Blutparameter wurden zu Beginn der Intervention, nach 6 Wochen und am Ende der Studie bestimmt.

Ergebnisse Neun von 15 eingeschlossenen ProbandInnen beendeten die Studie. Die durchschnittliche Gewichtsreduktion nach 12 Wochen betrug 7,19 kg (± 4,38). Der relative Körperfettgehalt wurde um 11,68 % (± 15,79 %). Nüchtern-Triglyzeride wurden um 31,29 % (± 54,48 %) reduziert, weiters wurde eine Reduktion von LDL-Cholesterin um 9,20 % (± 40,32 %) verzeichnet.

Tests für subjektives Wohlbefinden und Vitalität zeigten signifikante Verbesserung [p = 0,009; α = 0,05; 95 %-KI] bzw. [p = 0,008; α = 0,05; 95 %-KI]. Weiters konnten signifikante Unterschiede in Bezug auf Essverhalten festgestellt werden [p = 0,002; α = 0,05; 95 %-KI]. Die psychologischen Tests zeigten keine Auswirkung der Intervention auf Konzentrationsfähigkeit, Reaktionszeit und Gemüt.

Schlussfolgerung Unsere Resultate deuten darauf hin dass ADF eine adäquate diätetische Maßnahme zur Gewichtsreduktion darstellt, die gefahrlos auch über einen längeren Zeitraum beibehalten werden kann: es wurden keine negativen Effekte auf physiologische oder psychologische Parameter festgestellt. Größere, kontrollierte und randomisierte Studien sind nötig, um die Ergebnisse dieser Pilotstudie zu verifizieren.
Der tragbare Defibrillator (WCD) – EHRA-Review
Authors: Perings Christian
Published: June 2017

Der Kardioverter-Defibrillator nimmt eine zentrale Rolle in der Prävention des plötzlichen Herztodes ein. Neben identifizierbaren Patientengruppen mit anhaltend erhöhtem Risiko für ein arrhythmogenes Ereignis lassen sich auch diejenigen mit einem nur passager erhöhten Risiko für vital bedrohliche Tachyarrhythmien identifizieren. Hier findet der tragbare Kardioverter-Defibrillator (WCD) seine Anwendung. Neben der Funktionsweise des Systems werden die aktuellen Anwendungsbereiche inklusive der Leitlinienempfehlungen zusammengefasst.