bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quality of life, satisfaction with life, and functional mobility of young adults with arthrogryposis after leaving pediatric care
Authors: Altiok Haluk , Flanagan Ann , Krzak Joseph J. , Hassani Sahar
Published: July 2019

The aim of this study was to describe satisfaction and quality of life (QOL) of young adults with arthrogryposis after leaving pediatric care. Twenty‐three adults with arthrogryposis multiplex congenital (AMC) followed at a single pediatric orthopedic hospital (average age 23.6 years; range 18–36 years; 9 males, 14 females) completed questionnaires related to demographics, mobility, and activities of daily living. The Patient Reported Outcomes Measure Information System and Satisfaction with Life Scale were utilized to evaluate QOL and life satisfaction. Eighty‐three percent reported general health as good/excellent, 30% lived independently, 69% were ambulatory in the community, and 57% were employed. QOL scores for physical function were lower, but other QOL scores were consistent with the general U.S. population. Average pain intensity was mild at 2.6 out of 10, with pain frequently reported in the legs and feet. Fifty‐six percent were satisfied to extremely satisfied with life. Five individuals who were dissatisfied with life also reported lower physical function, higher anxiety, depression and fatigue, and pain in multiple joints. Although most young adults with AMC presented with mild pain and limitations in physical function; overall, they reported good QOL. Findings from the current study will help clinicians anticipate the needs of individuals with AMC as they transition from pediatric to adult care.
The relationship between joint surgery and quality of life in adults with arthrogryposis: An international study
Authors: Sawatzky Bonita , Jones Talon , Miller Rebecca , Noureai Hirmand
Published: July 2019

Individuals with Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita (AMC) are born with multiple joint contractures in multiple body areas, typically manifested as clubfeet, extended or flexed knees and/or elbows, and internal shoulder rotation, and clasped hands. They require multiple surgeries as children, but there is little data that reports their aging and future quality of life (QOL). This study describes the relationship between AMC‐related surgically‐managed joints in childhood and adulthood, and QOL as adults. Participants (n = 83) from 14 countries completed an online questionnaire followed by a telephone/Skype interview as adults. Data points collected regarding total number of surgeries, affected joints, country of origin, sex, age, and SF‐36's Physical Capacity Score (PCS) for QOL were analyzed using a beta regression model to explore which factors may potentially influence adult QOL. The average number of surgeries per participant was 9.8, with at least 50% performed during childhood. 78, 45, and 31% of participants had foot, knee, and hip surgeries, respectively. The model demonstrated that knee and/or shoulder surgeries were more likely to have a negative correlation with PCS; elbow surgery, however, showed a positive correlation, as elbow function may impact independent function. However, future expansion of this data set to a longitudinal registry would provide better ongoing surgery‐specific data.
Cell therapy stimulates bone neoformation in calvaria defects in rats subjected to local irradiation
Authors: Sório Ana Luisa Riul , Vargas‐Sanchez Paula Katherine , Fernandes Roger Rodrigo , Pitol Dimitrius Leonardo , de Sousa Luiz Gustavo , Bianchini Adriano Luiz Balthazar , de Melo Geraldo Batista , Siessere Selma , Bombonato‐Prado Karina Fittipaldi
Published: July 2019

Background

The purpose of the study was to analyze the effect of cell therapy on the repair process in calvaria defects in rats subjected to irradiation.

Methods

Bone marrow mesenchymal cells were characterized for osteoblastic phenotype. Calvariae of male Wistar rats were irradiated (20 Gy) and, after 4 weeks, osteoblastic cells were placed in surgically created defects in irradiated (IRC) and control animals (CC), paired with untreated irradiated (IR) and control (C) animals. After 30 days, histological and microtomographic evaluation was performed to establish significant (P < 0.05) differences among the groups.

Results

Higher alkaline phosphatase detection and activity, along with an increase in mineralized nodules, in the IRC, C and CC groups compared to the IR group, confirmed an osteoblastic phenotype. Histology showed impaired bone neoformation following irradiation, affecting bone marrow composition. Cell therapy in the IRC group improved bone neoformation compared to the IR group. Microtomography revealed increased bone volume, bone surface and trabecular number in IRC group compared to the IR group.

Conclusion

Cell therapy may improve bone neoformation in defects created after irradiation.
Reply to Correspondence on “Core Electron Topologies in Chemical Compounds: Case Study of Carbon versus Silicon”
Authors: Yoshida Daisuke , Raebiger Hannes , Shudo Ken‐ichi
Published: July 2019

In their Correspondence, von Szentpály, Schwarz, Stoll, and Werner claim that the main conclusions of our Communication previously published in this journal are based on computational artifacts and oversimplified models. We clarify the justification of our simple one‐electron model to describe one‐electron physics, and refute their criticism based on what they call “computational artifacts.” We remind that our main conclusion on the crucial role of qualitative changes in core electron wavefunctions is evidenced not only by wavefunction topologies the complainants cling to, but also by several other physical observables, which remain unrefuted. Hence, the conclusions of our original Communication stand.
The First Recyclable, Nanocrystalline CdS Thin Film Mediated Eco‐benign Synthesis Of Hantzsch 1, 4 Dihyropyridines, 1, 8‐Dioxodecahydroacridine and Polyhydroquinolines derivatives
Authors: Lavanya G. , Venkatapathy K. , Magesh C.J. , Perumal P.T. , Sathishkumar R. , Amudha P.
Published: July 2019

In the present study, we report a recyclable, nanocrystalline CdS thin film mediated efficient one‐pot, three component synthesis of Hantzsch 1, 4 Dihydropyridine in good yields. The catalyst is also effective for the efficient synthesis of Polyhydroquinoline and 1, 8‐dioxodecahydroacridine derivatives in good to excellent yields. The CdS thin film catalyst was prepared by chemical bath deposition (CBD) technique. The cadmium sulphide thin film was characterized by powder XRD and FT‐IR studies. The average crystallite size (D) was calculated from powder XRD by using Scherrer formula and SEM analysis. The elemental composition of the CdS thin film was established by EDS analysis. The effect of temperature, substituent's, catalyst loading and mole ratio on the reaction was also studied. All the products were thoroughly characterized by 1H‐NMR, 13C‐NMR, FT‐IR, Mass spectral and CHN analysis. A plausible mechanism for the CdS thin film catalyzed synthesis of 1, 4 DHP's is proposed. The heterogeneous catalyst could be easily recovered from the reaction mixture and successively reused at least five times without loss of activity.
Synthesis of nano‐sized magnetite mesoporous carbon for removal of Reactive Yellow dye from aqueous solutions
Authors: Toutounchi Sanaz , Shariati Shahab , Mahanpoor Kazem
Published: July 2019

In this study, core‐shell structures of magnetite nanoparticles coated with CMK‐8 ordered mesoporous carbon (Fe3O4@SiO2‐CMK‐8 NPs) have been successfully synthesized for the first time by carbonizing sucrose inside the pores of the Kit‐6 mesoporous silica. The nano‐sized mesoporous particles were characterized by X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform‐infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscope, dynamic light scattering, vibrating‐sample magnetometer, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) and transmission electron microscopy instruments. The obtained nanocomposite was used for removal of Reactive Yellow 160 (RY 160) dye from aqueous samples. The N2 adsorption–desorption method (at 77 K) confirmed the mesoporous structure of synthesized Fe3O4@SiO2‐CMK‐8 NPs. Also, the surface area was calculated by the BET method and Langmuir plot as 276.84 m2/g and 352.32 m2/g, respectively. The surface area, volume and pore diameter of synthesized nanoparticles (NPs) were calculated from the pore size distribution curves using the Barrett–Joyner–Halenda formula (BJH). To obtain the optimum experimental variables, the effect of various experimental parameters on the dye removal efficiency was studied using Taguchi orthogonal array experimental design method. According to the experimental results, about 90.0% of RY 160 was removed from aqueous solutions at the adsorbent amount of 0.06 g, pH 3 and ionic strength = 0.05 m during 10 min. The pseudo‐second order kinetic model provided a very good fit for the RY 160 dye removal (R2 = 0.999). The Langmuir, Freundlich, Temkin and Dubinin–Radushkevich models were applied to describe the equilibrium isotherms, and the Langmuir isotherm showed the best fit to data with the maximum adsorption capacity of 62.893 mg/g. Furthermore, the Fe3O4@SiO2‐CMK‐8 NPs could be simply recovered by external magnet, and exhibited recyclability and reusability for a subsequent six runs.
Structural, spectroscopic, molecular docking, thermal and DFT studies on metal complexes of bidentate orthoquinone ligand
Authors: Zayed Ehab M. , El‐Samahy Fatma A. , Mohamed Gehad G.
Published: July 2019

4‐Triphenylmethyl‐1,2‐benzoquinone (TPMBQ) reacted with some metal ions and the structure of the new compounds had been identified. The metal to ligand ratio was 1:2 which was revealed by elemental analysis. The complexes were found to have octahedral geometry and their thermal stability was studied using thermogravimetric analysis technique. The molar conductance measurements revealed the electrolytic nature of the synthesized chelates. The IR spectra concluded the bidentate nature of the TPMBQ ligand while the 1H NMR revealed the presence of water molecules. The XRD spectra of Mn (II) and Fe (III) complexes concluded their crystalline structure while Co (II) and Cu (II) chelates refer to amorphous structures. The geometries of the TPMBQ ligand were optimized using Gaussian 09 W; density functional theory B3LYP method. (DFT)/basis set 6–311++G (d, p). HOMO and LUMO energy values for chelates, chemical hardness and electro‐negativity had been calculated. The ligand and its metal complexes had been examined against different kinds of bacteria such as Proteus vulgaris, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aurous and Bacillus subtitles to examine their antimicrobial activity. Molecular docking using Auto Dock tools were utilized.
Ultrasonic assisted synthesis of nanocrystalline cellulose as support and reducing agent for Ag nanoparticles: green synthesis and novel effective nanocatalyst for degradation of organic dyes
Authors: Heidari Hannaneh , Karbalaee Melika
Published: July 2019

In this study, nanocrystalline cellulose (NCC) prepared from microcrystalline cellulose using high‐intensity ultrasonication as mechanical method without any chemical treatment. The obtained NCC with around 30–50 nm diameters, utilized as support, reducing and stabilizing agent for in‐situ green and eco‐friendly synthesis of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs). The catalytic activity of composite was examined for degradation of environmental pollutants. The structure of as‐synthesized composite (Ag@NCC) was characterized by ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV–vis), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM); Transmission electron microscopy (TEM); Energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The results of the catalytic reaction experiments showed that spherically shaped silver nanoparticles of around 20 nm distributed on the surface of nanocellulose demonstrated high catalytic efficiency towards the removal of methyl orange (MO) and 4‐nitrophenol (4‐NP).
Specific Heat Capacity Measurements of Frying Oil Using Modulated Differential Scanning Calorimetry
Authors: Chen Fangfang , Zhao Tingting , Liang Junmei , Cao Wenming , Jiang Yuanrong , Xu Xuebing
Published: July 2019

The specific heat capacity (cp) of frying oils is of practical importance in engineering work associated with refining operations and the thermal resistance during application. The objective of this study was to use modulated differential scanning calorimetry (MDSC) to measure the specific heat capacity of frying oil. Samples were exposed to a cyclic heating profile that was generated by a linear heating rate while simultaneously superimposing a sinusoidally varying time–temperature wave. The cp variation of three commercial frying oils during frying was tested over a temperature range between 0 and 250 °C, and the correlation of cp with triacylglycerol (TAG) polymer contents, total polar compounds (TPC), and polar fractions was studied. Results indicated that the specific heat capacity of frying oils increased linearly as temperature increased. During frying, cp had a positive relation with TAG polymers and TPC at the beginning, but finally decreased when frying ended. This was possibly associated with the variation of polar fractions as frying continued. The large molecular compounds and small molecular compounds of polar fractions were considered to contribute oppositely to cp, which led to its final decrease.
Using expert opinion to identify and determine the relative impact of threats to sea turtles in Mozambique
Authors: Williams Jessica L. , Pierce Simon J. , Hamann Mark , Fuentes Mariana M.P.B.
Published: July 2019

Although robust and consistent long‐term datasets are lacking, it is commonly accepted that sea turtle populations face significant human threats while using Mozambique's coastal habitats. While multiple threats have been identified, their relative impact – and thus the ability to prioritize limited conservation resources – is poorly known.

To obtain a better understanding of these threats, information from experts was elicited through a semi‐structured survey using open and closed‐ended questions. Experts in research, conservation and management of sea turtles were identified and asked to identify key threats and to complete pairwise comparison matrixes to determine the relative weight (w) of each threat (13 criterion, n = 24 questions).

Weights for the perceived impact of threats were calculated from scores given in the pair‐wise matrix using the analytic hierarchy process. Responses (n = 18) to open‐ended survey questions were thematically coded and discussed according to common themes (e.g. extent of knowledge, limitations, conservation management tools) identified.

Bycatch from commercial trawling (w = 13.65), artisanal fishing (w = 12.30) and hunting of nesting turtles (w = 11.33) were the top threats identified, in order of relative impact. While two of the three top threats are widely distributed and likely to be logistically and resource intensive to address, the top‐scoring threat, ‘bycatch from commercial trawling', is a clearly defined target for conservation intervention.

Given a lack of baseline or published data, soliciting expert opinion was an efficient way to identify emergent threats, along with the success and limiting factors influencing sea turtle conservation in a developing nation.

The methodology and technique implemented here are transferable. Expert surveys can provide valuable insights in locations with similar socio‐economic environments and limited empirical data to help clarify the relative impact of various threats.
The Frontoparietal Fossa and Dorsotemporal Fenestra of Archosaurs and Their Significance for Interpretations of Vascular and Muscular Anatomy in Dinosaurs
Authors: Holliday Casey M. , Porter William Ruger , Vliet Kent A. , Witmer Lawrence M.
Published: July 2019

The attachments of jaw muscles are typically implicated in the evolution and shape of the dorsotemporal fenestra on the skull roof of amniotes. However, the dorsotemporal fenestrae of many archosaurian reptiles possess smooth excavations rostral and dorsal to the dorsotemporal fossa which closely neighbors the dorsotemporal fenestra and jaw muscle attachments. Previous research has typically identified this region, here termed the frontoparietal fossa, to also have attachment surfaces for jaw‐closing muscles. However, numerous observations of extant and extinct archosaurs described here suggest that other tissues are instead responsible for the size and shape of the frontoparietal fossa. This study reviewed the anatomical evidence that support soft‐tissue hypotheses of the frontoparietal fossa and its phylogenetic distribution among sauropsids. Soft‐tissue hypotheses (i.e., muscle, pneumatic sinus, vascular tissues) were analyzed using anatomical, imaging and in vivo thermography techniques within a phylogenetic framework using extant and extinct taxa to determine the inferential power underlying the reconstruction of the soft tissues in the skull roofs of dinosaurs, pseudosuchians, and other reptiles. Relevant anatomical features argue for rejection of the default hypothesis—that the fossa was muscular—due to a complete lack of osteological correlates reflective of muscle attachment. The most‐supported inference of soft tissues is that the frontoparietal fossa contained a large vascular structure and adipose tissue. Despite the large sizes and diverse morphologies of these fossae found among dinosaur taxa, these data suggest that non‐avian dinosaurs had the anatomical foundation to support physiologically significant vascular devices and/or vascular integumentary structures on their skull roofs. Anat Rec, 303:1060–1074, 2020. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Palatal Biomechanics and Its Significance for Cranial Kinesis inTyrannosaurus rex
Authors: Cost Ian N. , Middleton Kevin M. , Sellers Kaleb C. , Echols Michael Scott , Witmer Lawrence M. , Davis Julian L. , Holliday Casey M.
Published: July 2019

The extinct nonavian dinosaurTyrannosaurus rex, considered one of the hardest biting animals ever, is often hypothesized to have exhibited cranial kinesis, or, mobility of cranial joints relative to the braincase. Cranial kinesis inT.rexis a biomechanical paradox in that forcefully biting tetrapods usually possess rigid skulls instead of skulls with movable joints. We tested the biomechanical performance of a tyrannosaur skull using a series of static positions mimicking possible excursions of the palate to evaluate Postural Kinetic Competency inTyrannosaurus. A functional extant phylogenetic bracket was employed using taxa, which exhibit measurable palatal excursions:Psittacus erithacus(fore–aft movement) andGekko gecko(mediolateral movement). Static finite element models ofPsittacus,Gekko, andTyrannosauruswere constructed and tested with different palatal postures using anatomically informed material properties, loaded with muscle forces derived from dissection, phylogenetic bracketing, and a sensitivity analysis of muscle architecture and tested in orthal biting simulations using element strain as a proxy for model performance. Extant species models showed lower strains in naturally occurring postures compared to alternatives. We found that fore–aft and neutral models ofTyrannosaurusexperienced lower overall strains than mediolaterally shifted models. Protractor muscles dampened palatal strains, while occipital constraints increased strains about palatocranial joints compared to jaw joint constraints. These loading behaviors suggest that even small excursions can strain elements beyond structural failure. Thus, these postural tests of kinesis, along with the robusticity of other cranial features, suggest that the skull ofTyrannosauruswas functionally akinetic. Anat Rec, 303:999–1017, 2020. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Observer‐based control of a photovoltaic DC–DC buck converter: HDS approach
Authors: Ali Dali , Said Diaf , Mohamed Tadjine
Published: July 2019

In this paper, a new observer‐based controller is proposed for a photovoltaic DC–DC buck converter; both photovoltaic (PV) voltage and current regulation are considered. In order to deal with the complex and nonlinear PV mathematical model and adapt it to the control purpose, a hybrid PV current observer model is proposed; three modes are defined and the stability of the observer is discussed using the hybrid dynamical system approach (HDS). The observer‐based controller is designed for both voltage and current regulation of the PV system; the closed loop of the full system stability is demonstrated through Lyapunov analysis. Experimental results are also presented showing the feasibility of the proposed observer‐based controller.
Novelty detection based on learning entropy
Authors: Dohnal Gejza , Bukovský Ivo
Published: July 2019

The Approximate Individual Sample Learning Entropy is based on incremental learning of a predictor
, where x(k) is an input vector of a given size at time k, w is a vector of weights (adaptive parameters), and h is a prediction horizon. The basic assumption is that, after the underlying process x changes its behavior, the incrementally learning system will adapt the weights w to improve the predictor
. Our goal is to detect a change in the behavior of the weight increment process. The main idea of this paper is based on the fact that weight increments △w(k), where △w(k) = w(k + 1) − w(k), create a weakly stationary process until a change occurs. Once a novelty behavior of the underlying process x(k) occurs, the process △w(k) changes its characteristics (eg, the mean or variation). We suggest using convenient characteristics of △w(k) in a multivariate detection scheme (eg, the Hotelling's T2 control chart).
Overview of Monitoring Techniques for Evaluating Water Quality at Potable Reuse Treatment Facilities
Authors: Vandegrift Jillian , Hooper Jennifer , da Silva Allegra , Bell Kati , Snyder Shane , Rock Channah M.
Published: July 2019

Needless to say, the safety of treated water for potable reuse must be definitively ensured. Numerous methods are available for assessing water quality; it's important to understand their challenges and limitations.
Commissioning a High‐Recovery Brackish Groundwater Desalination Plant in San Antonio
Authors: Shirazi Saqib H. , Hernandez Andrew J. , Morrison Kevin
Published: July 2019

Optimizing San Antonio Water System's new desalination plant yielded operational strategies and lessons learned for engineers and operators.
A validated high‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry method for quantification of gefitinib and its main metabolites in xenograft mouse tumor: Application to a pharmacokinetics study
Authors: Zhao Can , Zheng Nan , Yang Fen , Han Shu‐Yan , Li Ping‐Ping
Published: July 2019

Monitoring gefitinib and its metabolites may help to explore the underlying mechanisms of gefitinib resistance. The concentration of gefitinib and its metabolites in tumor tissues could influence its anticancer activities more than that in the plasma. In the present study, a rapid and specific HPLC–MS/MS method was developed and validated to simultaneously determine gefitinib, M387783, M523595, M537194 and M608236 in tumor tissues of H1975 human lung cancer xenografts of nude mice. The established HPLC–MS/MS method was validated for specificity, linearity, accuracy and precision, matrix effect and recovery, carryover and dilution integrity, and analyte stability. The standard curves were linear (r2 ≥ 0.99) over the range of 0.5–100 ng/mL for M608236 and 1–200 ng/mL for gefitinib, M523595 and M537194 as well as M387783. The accuracy ranged from −8.35 to 6.03% relative error; and the precision was <15% relative standard deviation. Recoveries (87.74–99.96%) and matrix effects (86.60–106.40%) were satisfactory in the biological matrix examined. Stability studies showed that the analytes were stable during the assay procedure and storage. Finally, the validated method was successfully applied to study the pharmacokinetics profiles for gefitinib and its metabolites in nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) xenograft mouse tumors. Meanwhile, MTT assay showed that gefitinib had a more powerful inhibitory effect than its four major metabolites in H1975 NSCLC cells. This validated HPLC–MS/MS method may be applied to help understand the mechanisms of gefitinib resistance in EGFR‐mutant nonsmall cell lung cancer.
Business‐community engagement: A case of mining company in India
Authors: Narula Sapna A. , Magry Muneer Ahmad , Mathur Ashima
Published: July 2019

Through a case of community development project in open caste coal mining areas, this paper demonstrates how businesses could successfully engage with the communities for Corporate Social Responsibility and other development activities. The five phases of the project were implemented over a period of three years (2015–2018) in Jharia Coal mines by a public sector mining company in India. The critical enablers and constraints at different phases of the project implementation have been identified. Based on our study, we propose a novel framework for business‐community interface for similar projects. The paper highlights implications for both practitioners and researchers and is quite significant in light of the Corporate Social Responsibility mandate in India and the growing interest of corporates in community development projects.
Constancy of the Dimension for RCD(K,N) Spaces via Regularity of Lagrangian Flows
Authors: Brué Elia , Semola Daniele
Published: July 2019

We prove a regularity result for Lagrangian flows of Sobolev vector fields over RCD(K, N) metric measure spaces; regularity is understood with respect to a newly defined quasi‐metric built from the Green function of the Laplacian. Its main application is that RCD(K, N) spaces have constant dimension. In this way we generalize to such an abstract framework a result proved by Colding‐Naber for Ricci limit spaces, introducing ingredients that are new even in the smooth setting. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Impact of unhealthy childhood and unfavorable parents' characteristics on adiposity in schoolchildren
Authors: Vinciguerra Federica , Tumminia Andrea , Roppolo Francesca , Romeo Luana Catena , La Spina Nadia , Baratta Roberto , Parrino Cristina , Sciacca Laura , Vigneri Riccardo , Frittitta Lucia
Published: July 2019

Background

Childhood obesity is encouraged by low physical activity (PA), time spent using screens (screen time, ST), and by sugar‐sweetened beverage consumption (SSBc). It is also influenced by unfavorable parents' characteristics, such as a high body mass index (BMI) and low education level (EL). Our aim was to evaluate the overall and specific influence of these factors on childhood adiposity.

Material and methods

Anthropometric parameters including BMI z‐score, waist circumference (WC), waist to height ratio (WtHR), and fat mass were measured in a cohort of 1702 schoolchildren (6.0‐14.5 years, mean 10.7 ± 1.8) and questionnaires concerning children's PA, ST, and SSBc, and parent's BMI and EL were administered to parents.

Results

Overweight/obesity prevalence was higher (P < .0001) in males (57%) than in females (43%). Less physically active children (28.9%) had a higher prevalence of overweight/obesity and higher BMI z‐score, WC, WtHR, and fat mass relative to more physically active children (P < .05). PA was negatively associated with the BMI z‐score (r = 0.18, P < .0001) and fat mass percentage (r = 0.18, P < .0001). Children with more ST had higher WC and WtHR than non‐ST viewers (P < .05) but not BMI. Moreover, SSBc did not influence the anthropometric parameters. At multivariate analysis, male gender, less PA, and parental risk factors (parent's overweight/obesity and low/medium EL) were independently associated with overweight and obesity among childhood with a progressively increasing odds ratio (1.65, 1.40, and 1.80, respectively).

Conclusions

Male gender, behavioral risk factors (particularly low PA), and parent's characteristics are important correlates of obesity in children.
Weakened portfolio effects constrain management effectiveness for population aggregates
Authors: Freshwater Cameron , Anderson Sean C. , Holt Kendra R. , Huang Ann‐Marie , Holt Carrie A.
Published: July 2019

Population diversity can reduce temporal variability in aggregate population abundances in a process known as the portfolio effect. Portfolio effects may weaken, however, due to greater synchrony among component populations. While weakened portfolio effects have been previously documented, the consequences of reduced stability on meeting conservation goals for population aggregates that are harvested (e.g., stock aggregates in fisheries) are rarely quantified. Here, we demonstrate how changes in variability within components, synchrony among components, and population productivity interact to influence the probability of achieving an array of management objectives for Fraser River sockeye salmon: a stock aggregate of high economic, ecological, and cultural value. We first present evidence that component variability and synchrony have increased over the last two decades, consistent with a weakening portfolio effect. We then parameterize a stochastic, closed‐loop model that simulates the population dynamics of each stock, the fishery that harvests the stock aggregate, and the management framework used to establish mixed‐stock exploitation rates. We find that while median aggregate abundance and catch through time were relatively insensitive to greater aggregate variability, catch stability and performance metrics associated with achieving management targets generally declined as component variability and synchrony increased. A notable exception we observed is that harvest control means that scale exploitation rates based on aggregate abundance may be more effective as synchrony increases. Reductions in productivity led to broad declines in performance, but also moderated the impacts of component variability and synchrony on the proportion of component stocks above management targets and catch stability. Our results suggest that even precautionary management strategies that account for declines in productivity may underestimate risk, particularly to socioeconomic objectives, if they fail to consider changes in aggregate variability. Adequately incorporating changes in portfolio effect strength may be particularly relevant when developing recovery strategies that are robust to climate change, which is likely to increase synchrony and component variability.
Sex‐specific population dynamics of ocelots in Belize using open population spatial capture–recapture
Authors: Satter Christopher B. , Augustine Ben C. , Harmsen Bart J. , Foster Rebecca J. , Kelly Marcella J.
Published: July 2019

We used open population, spatial capture–recapture (SCR) models to estimate sex‐specific density, survival, per capita recruitment, and population growth rate of ocelots (Leopardus pardalis) at five sites in Belize with up to 12 yr of data per site. Open population SCR models enabled us to separate survival and recruitment from migration using an ecologically realistic, spatially explicit movement model. Yearly survival probability across 4 broadleaf forest sites was estimated at 0.73–0.84 for males and 0.81–0.87 for females, with no clear indication of sex differences. Yearly per capita recruitment was estimated across four broadleaf forest sites at 0.06–0.08 recruits/N for males and 0.09–0.12 recruits/N for females, again with no clear indication of sex differences. At a pine forest site with a population comprised largely of males, survival and recruitment estimates were similar to the broadleaf sites. Population densities in the broadleaf forest sites ranged from 6.5 to 14.7 ocelots/100 km2, and 0.9–2.5 ocelots/100 km2 in the pine forest site, with strong evidence of a female‐biased sex ratio in the broadleaf sites and a male‐biased sex ratio in the pine forest site. We also found strong evidence that female within‐year space use at the broadleaf sites was smaller than that of males, and that within‐year space use at the pine forest site was larger than that at broadleaf sites. Between‐year home‐range relocation at broadleaf sites was of a similar spatial scale as within‐year space use, consistent with philopatry. We found evidence of a small population decline (posterior probability > 0.9) at two of four broadleaf sites; however, given the level of uncertainty about decline magnitudes, we suggest continued monitoring of these sites to increase site‐years and gain further precision on population growth rate estimates. Estimating demographic parameters at large spatial and temporal scales is important for establishing reliable baseline estimates for future comparison and for understanding changes in population dynamics. Long‐term data sets like those we collected are of particular importance for long‐lived species living at low densities and large spatial scales, where not many individuals are exposed to capture in any one year.
Snowpack influences spatial and temporal soil nitrogen dynamics in a western U.S. montane forested watershed
Authors: Yano Yuriko , Qubain Claire , Holyman Zach , Jencso Kelsey , Hu Jia
Published: July 2019

Declines in winter snowpack have increased the severity of summer droughts in western U.S. forests, with the potential to also impact soil available nitrogen (N). To understand how snowpack controls spatiotemporal N availability, we examined seasonal N dynamics across elevation, aspect, and topographic position (hollow vs. slope) in a forested watershed in the northern Rocky Mountains. As expected, peak snow‐water equivalent (SWE) was generally greater at higher elevations and on north‐facing aspects. However, the effects of topographic position and snowdrift led to variability in snow accumulation at smaller spatial scales. Spatial patterns of the snowpack, in turn, influenced soil moisture and temperature, with greater SWE leading to generally higher soil moisture levels during the summer and smaller temperature fluctuations throughout the year. Wetter conditions in spring or fall generally supported greater inorganic N pools, but at the driest locations (low‐elevation slope), pulses of N mineralization in summer may have played important roles in overall N dynamics. More importantly, soil moisture during the summer appeared to be more influenced by antecedent snowpack from the previous year than by current‐year summer rain. Subsequently, N mineralization under snowpack may be strongly influenced by soil moisture and temperature conditions from the previous fall, before snowpack accumulation. Together, our results indicate that snowpack strongly influences N dynamics beyond the current growing season in western coniferous forests through mediation of soil moisture and temperature, and suggest that further decline in winter snowpack may affect these forests through constraints in both water and N availability.
Species‐pair associations, null models, and tests of mechanisms structuring ecological communities
Authors: Cordero Ruben D. , Jackson Donald A.
Published: July 2019

Biotic interactions and niche processes are fundamental determinants of community structure and species co‐occurrence. Most studies of species co‐occurrence have focused on negative association patterns (segregation presumed to arise from competition), often ignoring positive aggregations, although positive and negative associations may arise from multiple mechanisms. We used a pairwise approach to identify co‐occurrence patterns of 76 fish species across almost 9500 lakes, followed by a meta‐analytic approach to compare the co‐occurrence pattern of each species pair across watersheds and determine their cumulative species associations. Biological information relating to species’ phylogeny, habitat preferences, and diet was used to group species into relevant subsets in order to test community assembly processes of competition, predation, and habitat filtering. We found consistent non‐random patterns of co‐occurrence in nearly half the species pairs and more extremely aggregated than segregated species pairs. Observed co‐occurrence patterns indicated the importance of shared habitat requirements and predation, rather than competition, driving positively aggregated and negatively segregated species associations, respectively. Our meta‐analytic approach incorporating important biological attributes permitted the testing of specific mechanisms of community assembly, providing novel insights into the major determinants of fish community structure and their generality across a vast set of lakes.
Long‐term influence of early human occupations on current forests of the Guiana Shield
Authors: Odonne Guillaume , van den Bel Martijn , Burst Maxime , Brunaux Olivier , Bruno Miléna , Dambrine Etienne , Davy Damien , Desprez Mathilde , Engel Julien , Ferry Bruno , Freycon Vincent , Grenand Pierre , Jérémie Sylvie , Mestre Mickael , Molino Jean‐François , Petronelli Pascal , Sabatier Daniel , Hérault Bruno
Published: July 2019

To decipher the long‐term influences of pre‐Columbian land occupations on contemporary forest structure, diversity, and functioning in Amazonia, most of the previous research focused on the alluvial plains of the major rivers of the Amazon basin. Terra firme, that is, nonflooded forests, particularly from the Guiana Shield, are yet to be explored. In this study, we aim to give new insights into the subtle traces of pre‐Columbian influences on present‐day forests given the archaeological context of terra firme forests of the Guiana Shield. Following archaeological prospects on 13 sites in French Guiana, we carried out forest inventories inside and outside archaeological sites and assessed the potential pre‐Columbian use of the sampled tree species using an original ethnobotanical database of the Guiana Shield region. Aboveground biomass (320 and 380 T/ha, respectively), basal area (25–30 and 30–35 m2/ha, respectively), and tree density (550 and 700 stem/ha, respectively) were all significantly lower on anthropized plots (As) than on nonanthropized plots (NAs). Ancient human presence shaped the species composition of the sampled forests with Arecaceae, Burseraceae, and Lauraceae significantly more frequent in As and Annonaceae and Lecythidaceae more frequent in NAs. Although alpha diversity was not different between As and NAs, the presence of pre‐Columbian sites enhances significantly the forest beta diversity at the landscape level. Finally, trees with edible fruits are positively associated with pre‐Columbian sites, whereas trees used for construction or for their bark are negatively associated with pre‐Columbian sites. Half a millennium after their abandonment, former occupied places from the inner Guiana Shield still bear noticeable differences with nonanthropized places. Considering the lack of data concerning archaeology of terra firme Amazonian forests, our results suggest that pre‐Columbian influences on the structure (lower current biomass), diversity (higher beta diversity), and composition (linked to the past human tree uses) of current Amazonian forests might be more important than previously thought.
Southern California and range‐wide raccoon gastrointestinal helminth database
Authors: Weinstein Sara B. , Van Wert Jacey C. , Kinsella Mike , Tkach Vasyl V. , Lafferty Kevin D.
Published: July 2019

Local and global measurements of parasite prevalence and abundance are critical for understanding the dynamics that underlie the diversity, distribution, and evolution of infectious diseases. Here, we present a data set of gut helminths found in (1) raccoons throughout their range, based on primary literature from 1925–2017 and (2) raccoons in Santa Barbara County, California, USA surveyed from 2012 to 2015. The range‐wide data set has 1,256 parasite entries from 217 literature sources across three continents and 32 states in the USA. This data set includes a list of all recorded raccoon gut helminths (n = 100) and their presence and prevalence in surveyed raccoon populations. The Santa Barbara data set includes gut helminth data from 182 raccoons from one Southern California County. In addition to the presence and abundance data for 13 parasite species, this data set includes measurements of 7,465 individual raccoon roundworms (Baylisascaris procyonis). For both range‐wide and Santa Barbara data sets, we include information on parasite site of infection in host, sampling method, and sample size. We also provide geographic coordinates for infected raccoon populations (range‐wide database) and individuals (Santa Barbara). In the associated metadata, we include sampling methods and summary figures for both the range‐wide and Santa Barbara raccoon gut helminth records. There are no copyright or proprietary restrictions for research and/or teaching purposes. S. B. Weinstein and J. C. Van Wert contributed equally to this manuscript and are shared first authors.
Pain over the adult life course: 15‐year pain trajectories—The Doetinchem Cohort Study
Authors: Picavet H. Susan J. , Monique Verschuren W. M. , Groot Lichelle , Schaap Laura , van Oostrom Sandra H.
Published: July 2019

Background

Pain at any age is related to pain experienced at younger ages, but not much is known on how pain develops over the adult life course. We studied long‐term individual trajectories of pain over 15 years of the life course and evaluated the role of baseline sociodemographic factors, lifestyle factors and health characteristics.

Methods

Longitudinal data from the Doetinchem Cohort Study was used with 3,485 adults aged 25–71 years at baseline who were measured every 5 years, until the age of 40–86 years. Four measurements of self‐reported pain were used to distinguish 15‐year trajectories of pain, that were summarized in five pre‐definedpatterns.

Results

The typical pain trajectory patterns were (prevalence): never pain (32.2%), persistent pain (19.5%), development of pain (19.2%), diminishing pain (11.1%) and fluctuating pain (18.0%). Multinomial logistic regression analyses showed that the trajectory characterized by never pain was more often found among: men, non‐smokers, those reporting a normal sleep duration and those without obesity, chronic disease, a poor mental health, a poor perceived health, or musculoskeletal complaints.

Conclusions

A substantial part of the population reports pain over a long period of their life course and long‐term trajectories of pain may reflect phenotypes that may be relevant to take into account in pain management. Several risk factors, such as short‐sleep duration, smoking, obesity and poor perceived or mental health may be relevant in recognizing those with pain, and tackling these may contribute to the prevention of pain over the life course.

Significance

Asking adults about pain every 5 years over a 15‐year period shows that almost one‐third never reported pain and one‐fifth persistent pain. “Persistent” and “developing” pain is associated with smoking, obesity and short sleep duration. Long‐term pain trajectories may reflect relevant pain phenotypes.
Performance evaluation and organic mass balance for treatment of high strength wastewater by anaerobic hybrid membrane bioreactor
Authors: Burman Isha , Sinha Alok
Published: July 2019

The performance and chemical oxygen demand (COD) mass balance of a lab‐scale anaerobic hybrid membrane bioreactor (An‐HMBR), treating high strength wastewater, at mesophilic temperature, was investigated. Long‐term (275 days) operation was carried out at various hydraulic retention times (HRTs), namely, 3, 2, 1, and 0.5 days corresponding to organic loading rate (OLR) of 1.06, 1.6, 3.2, and 6.4 kg COD/m3d, respectively. An‐HMBR achieved, COD removal of 97–87% at HRT of 3–0.5 days, respectively. The study showed that polyurethane foam as attached growth media adsorbed mixed liquor suspended solids and thereby reduced the load on the membrane by 42%. During COD mass balance, an additional 4–5% of COD balance was achieved by consideration of COD conversion to biomass. The results suggest that unknown COD fraction varies between 33 and 37%, which was attributed to the loss of gaseous as well as oversaturation of dissolved methane. Consideration of oversaturation leads to a COD mass balance of over 95%.
An assessment on removal performance of arsenic with treated Turbinaria vulgaris as an adsorbent: Characterization, optimization, isotherm, and kinetics study
Authors: Boddu Sumalatha , Dulla John Babu , Alugunulla Venkata Narayana , Khan Anoar A.
Published: July 2019

In this current research, batch experiments were performed toward the characterization and optimization of arsenic removal by Turbinaria vulgaris. The four process parameters, that is, initial solution pH (3–5), initial arsenic ion concentration (20–100 mg/L), T. vulgaris dosage (0.10.5 g/L), and temperature (293–313 K), were considered for the process optimization through response surface methodology via central composite design (CCD) approach. According to CCD methodology, a set of 30 experimental runs were conducted and the results were analyzed; the suggested quadratic model has well matched to the experimental results which might be used to design space according to the study of analysis of variance. The highest removal efficiency of 92.12% was attained, retaining the process conditions viz. pH 4.41, biomass dosage 0.3 g/L, initial arsenic concentration 21.33 mg/L, and temperature 298.32 K. Biosorbent morphology and chemical properties were characterized by means of fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis. The presence of metal ions in the biomass of T. vulgaris after biosorption was confirmed from the SEM result. These results are significant toward the assessment and optimization of removal of arsenic ions by T. vulgaris biomass. To estimate the solute interaction and biosorption nature, the experimental data were verified with different isotherms and kinetic models. The results discovered that T. vulgaris could be a cost‐effective and eco‐friendly biosorbent for the removal of arsenic ions.
Enhanced simulated sunlight‐driven photocatalytic performance of SnWO4 prepared in the presence of cetyltrimethylammonium bromide
Authors: Huang Jiao , Liu Huanhuan , Zhong Junbo , Li Jianzhang
Published: July 2019

In this paper, SnWO4 photocatalyst with enhanced simulated sunlight‐driven photocatalytic performance was prepared by a hydrothermal method in the presence of cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB). The samples were characterized by Brunauer–Emmett–Teller method, X‐ray diffraction, UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, surface photovoltage spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. The active free radicals formed were investigated by electron spin resonance spectroscopy and trapping experiments. Photocatalytic abilities of the photocatalyts were evaluated using methyl orange as model contaminant. The results show that CTAB induces redshift and promotes the photo‐induced charge separation rate of SnWO4, thereby boosting the photocatalytic performance. The photocatalytic test results reveal that the photocatalytic activity of CTAB‐SnWO4 is 7.25 times of the reference SnWO4.