bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
BARRIERS TO FORMAL SAVING: MICRO‐ AND MACROECONOMIC EFFECTS
Authors: Di Giannatale Sonia , Roa María José
Published: July 2018

This paper examines different barriers to formal saving, considering various interventions and their possible effects at microeconomic and macroeconomic levels. It presents a comprehensive review of the literature, based on a detailed classification of the barriers associated with supply‐side factors, related to access to financial products, and demand‐side barriers, related to the use and frequency of use of those products. The paper concludes that this classification and analysis contributes to a fuller understanding of the question of financial inclusion, and how to achieve it.
Least Squares Bias in Time Series with Moderate Deviations from a Unit Root
Authors: Stoykov Marian Z.
Published: July 2018

This articles derives the approximate bias of the least squares estimator of the autoregressive coefficient in discrete autoregressive time series where the autoregressive coefficient is given byαT=1+c/kT, withkTbeing a deterministic sequence increasing to infinity at a rate slower thanT, such thatkT=o(T) asT→∞. The cases in whichc<0,c=0 andc>0 are considered correspond to (moderately) stationary, non‐stationary and (moderately) explosive series respectively. The result is used to derive the limiting distribution of the indirect inference method for such processes with moderate deviations from a unit root and for explosive series with a fixed coefficient, which does not depend on the sample size. Second, the result demonstrates why the jackknife estimator cannot be constructed for explosive time series for values of the autoregressive parameter close to unity in view of the discontinuity of the bias function, which the article derives. Finally, the expression is used to construct a bias‐corrected estimator, and simulations are carried out to assess the three estimators' bias reduction capabilities.
Isolation and identification of phosphate‐solubilizing microorganisms and distribution of orthophosphate in different seasons from sewage‐fed East Kolkata Wetland
Authors: Mondal Subinoy , Haque Smaranya , Kundu Debajyoti , Dutta Deblina , Ghosh Apurba Ratan
Published: July 2018

This study focused on isolation and identification of possible phosphate‐solubilizing bacteria (PSB) from the sewage‐fed East Kolkata Wetland (EKWL), a prospective water resource for pisciculture. In addition, different limnological parameters have been correlated with orthophosphate and seasonal variations. PSB have been isolated in Pikovskaya medium and identified morphologically and biochemically and finally analysed by 16S rDNA gene sequence. Limnological studies involving temperature (potentiometric), pH (potentiometric), dissolved oxygen (iodometric), ammonia‐nitrogen (spectrophotometric) and orthophosphate (spectrophotometric) concentrations were conducted. The results of this study established the presence of Bacillus megaterium, a potential PSB in EKWL. The activity of B. megaterium is also supported by the seasonal orthophosphate variations. The changes in concentration of other limnological parameters were also prominent. The water quality parameters of temperature (r = 0.886), dissolved oxygen (r = 0.729) and ammonia‐nitrogen (r = 0.396) concentrations exhibited a positive correlation with orthophosphate and a negative correlation with pH (r = −0.699). The B. megaterium obtained in this study, exhibited a significant alteration in regard to orthophosphate content and relationships with other factors. Further experiment on the soluble phosphorus solubilization potential of B. megaterium revealed the biological availability of phosphorus was increased by threefold after 120 hr of incubation, with the decreasing pH value, although the phytase activity was 0.419 U/ml. PSB have a vital function in plant nutrition in supplying phosphate, essential nutrients and its uptake results in appropriate functioning and metabolism of different aquatic plants and organisms. PSB are competent biofertilizer to amplify aquaculture production for sustainable development.
Little evidence that farmers should consider abundance or diversity of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi when managing crops
Authors: Ryan Megan H. , Graham James H.
Published: July 2018

Contents

Summary
1092

I.
Introduction
1093

II.
Investigating activity of AMF in agroecosystems
1093

III.
Crop benefit from AMF: agronomic and mycorrhizal literature differ
1094

IV.
Flawed methodology leads to benefits of mycorrhizas being overstated
1094

V.
Rigorous methodology suggests low colonisation by AMF can sometimes reduce crop yield
1095

VI.
Predicting when mycorrhizas matter for crop yield
1096

VII.
Crop genotype
1099

VIII.
Fungal genotype
1100

IX.
Complex interactions between the mycorrhizal fungal and soil microbial communities
1102

X.
Phosphorus‐efficient agroecosystems
1102

XI.
Conclusions
1103

Acknowledgements
1104

References
1104

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are ubiquitous in agroecosystems and often stated to be critical for crop yield and agroecosystem sustainability. However, should farmers modify management to enhance the abundance and diversity of AMF? We address this question with a focus on field experiments that manipulated colonisation by indigenous AMF and report crop yield, or investigated community structure and diversity of AMF. We find that the literature presents an overly optimistic view of the importance of AMF in crop yield due, in part, to flawed methodology in field experiments. A small body of rigorous research only sometimes reports a positive impact of high colonisation on crop yield, even under phosphorus limitation. We suggest that studies vary due to the interaction of environment and genotype (crop and mycorrhizal fungal). We also find that the literature can be overly pessimistic about the impact of some common agricultural practices on mycorrhizal fungal communities and that interactions between AMF and soil microbes are complex and poorly understood. We provide a template for future field experiments and a list of research priorities, including phosphorus‐efficient agroecosystems. However, we conclude that management of AMF by farmers will not be warranted until benefits are demonstrated at the field scale under prescribed agronomic management.
Systematic deviations from linear size spectra of lake fish communities are correlated with predator–prey interactions and lake‐use intensity
Authors: Arranz Ignasi , Hsieh Chih‐hao , Mehner Thomas , Brucet Sandra
Published: July 2018

Size structure of organisms at logarithmic scale (i.e. size spectrum) can often be described by a linear function with a negative slope; however, substantial deviations from linearity have often been found in natural systems. Theoretical studies suggest that greater nonlinearity in community size spectrum is associated with high predator–prey size ratios but low predator–prey abundance ratios; however, empirical evaluation of the effects of predator–prey interactions on nonlinear structures remains scarce. Here, we aim to empirically explore the pattern of the size‐specific residuals (i.e. deviations from the linear regression between the logarithmic fish abundance and the logarithmic mean fish size) by using size spectra of fish communities in 74 German lakes. We found that nonlinearity was strong in lakes with high predator–prey abundance ratios but at low predator–prey size ratios. More specifically, our results suggest that only large predators, even if occurring in low abundances, can control the density of prey fishes in a broad range of size classes in a community and thus promote linearity in the size spectrum. In turn, the lack of large predator fishes may cause high abundances of fish in intermediate size classes, resulting in nonlinear size spectra in these lakes. Moreover, these lakes were characterized by a more intense human use including high fishing pressure and high total phosphorus concentrations, which have negative impacts on the abundance of large, predatory fish. Our findings indicate that nonlinear size spectra may reflect dynamical processes potentially caused by predator–prey interactions. This opens a new perspective in the research on size spectrum, and can be relevant to further quantify the efficiency of energy transfer in aquatic food webs.
Extracardiac ice formation during CoolLoop cryoablation of atrial fibrillation
Authors: de Asmundis Carlo , Chierchia Gian‐Battista , La Meir Marc
Published: July 2018

A 75‐year‐old male patient was referred for longstanding atrial fibrillation ablation. We performed this procedure combining an epicardial and endocardial approach. Under general anesthesia and via a left‐sided thoracoscopic approach, we isolated the pulmonary veins (PVs) and the roofline and inferior line were created using a radiofrequency tool. To isolate the endocardial PVs, a transseptal puncture was performed via the groin, and a cryoablation CoolLoop catheter (AFreeze GmbH, Innsbruck, Austria) was advanced into the left atrium. Ice crystals started to appear on the epicardial surface of the left inferior PV antrum after 121 seconds later, those crystals had formed an ice plaque. For the first time in humans, we were able to visualize the transmural effects of cryothermal energy ablation via a CoolLoop catheter on the epicardial surface of the ostium of the PV.
Role of implantable loop recorders in patients with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome
Authors: Kanjwal Khalil , Qadir Rehana , Ruzieh Mohammed , Grubb Blair P.
Published: July 2018

Introduction

We previously reported on a subgroup of postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) patients who may also have features of neurocardiogenic syncope as well. In this subgroup of patients, we found syncope and presyncope were predominant clinical features. To understand the mechanism of syncope in this subgroup, we identified 39 patients who underwent loop recorder insertion.

Methods

We reviewed charts of 450 patients who had POTS and syncope seen at the University of Toledo Medical Center from 2003 to 2017. Thirty‐nine patients had at least four episodes of syncope in the last 6 months and were included for this study. All of these patients had a prior evaluation with a Holter and an event monitor which were inconclusive.

Results

Thirty‐nine patients, 33 (85%) women, aged 20–46 years, were included in this study. All patients demonstrated prolonged asystole (>6 seconds) or severe bradycardia (heart rate < 30 beats/min) during their syncope on implantable loop recorder (IRL). Fifteen patients demonstrated an asystole of >10 seconds and also had prolonged and convulsive syncope. All patients had abrupt syncope without any warning sign. All patients underwent dual‐chamber pacemaker implantation using a closed loop stimulation algorithm. Syncope were completely eliminated in all patients following pacemaker implantation; however, they continued to have orthostatic tachycardia.

Conclusion

POTS patients with unusually frequent syncope should be considered for ILR implantation if other monitoring modalities like 48‐hour Holter monitor or event recorder are inconclusive. ILR may identify a subgroup of POTS patients who may benefit from pacemaker implantations.
Electroanatomic mapping‐guided localization of alternative right ventricular septal pacing sites in children
Authors: Silvetti Massimo Stefano , Battipaglia Irma , Pazzano Vincenzo , Saputo Fabio Anselmo , Ravà Lucilla , Ammirati Antonio , Calvieri Camilla , Ciani Michele , Drago Fabrizio
Published: July 2018

Background

Alternative right ventricular (RV) sites (RVAPS) have been proposed to prevent or reduce RV pacing‐induced left‐ventricular (LV) dysfunction. Nonfluoroscopic 3D electroanatomic mapping systems (EAM) have been developed to guide cardiac catheter navigation and reduce fluoroscopy during electrophysiological procedures or pacemaker implantations.

Aim

The aim of the study was to compare the results of EAM‐guided permanent pacemaker implantation aiming at RVAPS with conventional fluoroscopic‐guided implantation in RV apex (RVA) in children and adolescents.

Methods

A prospective, randomized analysis was performed on children/adolescents with complete atrioventricular block (CAVB) who underwent EAM‐guided pacemaker and transvenous leads implantation into RVAPS (EAM‐RVAPS) or conventional, fluoroscopic‐guided implantation into RV apex (RVA). In EAM‐RVAPS, a pacing map guided the implantation of ventricular leads in septal sites with narrower QRS. After implantation, LV contractility (ejection fraction [EF], Global Longitudinal Strain [GLS]) and synchrony were evaluated at 1–12 months.

Results

Twenty‐one pediatric patients with CAVB, with (six patients) or without structural heart diseases, aged 4–16 (median 10.5) years, were divided in two groups: EAM‐RVAPS (11 patients, four dual‐chamber/DDD, seven single‐chamber/VVIR pacemakers) and RVA (10 patients, one DDD/nine VVIR). The two groups did not show significant differences for preoperative parameters. EAM‐RVAPS showed: preserved LVEF and synchrony (not significantly different than RVA), significantly lower GLS and radiation doses/exposures, in spite more complex procedures, significantly longer procedure times and narrower paced QRS than RVA.

Conclusions

EAM‐guided procedures have been useful to reduce radiation exposure and to localize RVAPS with narrower paced QRS and lower GLS than RVA.
Three new naraoiid species from the Burgess Shale, with a morphometric and phylogenetic reinvestigation of Naraoiidae
Authors: Mayers Benjamin , Aria Cédric , Caron Jean‐Bernard
Published: July 2018

Naraoiids are non‐biomineralized euarthropods characterized by the complete fusion of post‐cephalic tergo‐pleurae into a single shield, as well as an extensively ramified digestive tract. Ranging from the early Cambrian to the late Silurian (Pridoli), these arthropods of simple appearance have traditionally been associated with the early diversification of trilobites and their close relatives, but the interrelationships and affinities of naraoiids within Artiopoda remain poorly characterized. Three new species from the Burgess Shale (middle Cambrian, Stage 5) of British Columbia, Canada, are described here: Misszhouia canadensis sp. nov., from Marble Canyon (Kootenay National Park), the first species belonging to the genus Misszhouia outside of China; Naraoia magna sp. nov., from Marble Canyon and also from the Raymond Quarry (Yoho National Park), the largest species of Naraoia described thus far, reaching up to 9 cm in length; and Naraoia arcana sp. nov., from two sublocalities on Mount Stephen (Yoho National Park), defined by its unusual combination of spines. This new material shows that gut morphology is no longer a reliable character to distinguish Misszhouia from Naraoia. We demonstrate that Naraoia and Misszhouia can instead be discriminated morphometrically, based on simple metrics of the dorsal exoskeleton. Our quantitative results also help with inter‐specific discrimination and illustrate possible cases of sexual dimorphism. Phylogenetically, the inclusion of morphometric data adds resolution to our cladogram, although parsimony and likelihood treatments provide somewhat different evolutionary scenarios. In all cases, liwiines are nested within Naraoiidae, resolved as the most derived clade of trilobitomorph arthropods.
Information, Tax Salience, and Support for School Bond Referenda
Authors: Brunner Eric J. , Robbins Mark D. , Simonsen Bill
Published: July 2018

We examine whether the salience of the property tax liability implications of voting yes on a school bond referendum affects bond approval rates. We exploit the fact that school districts in Minnesota are required to explicitly note the property tax implications of voting yes on bond referenda in bold capital letters on a ballot while districts in the neighboring state of Wisconsin are only required to inform voters of the amount of bonds to be issued. Using data on local school bond passage rates from Minnesota and Wisconsin over the period 2008–2017, we find that when the property tax implications of voting yes are more salient, the fraction of voters favoring bond passage declines by approximately four to seven percentage points and the probability of bond passage falls by approximately ten percentage points. These results are robust to numerous specification checks including propensity score weighting methods and leveraging the geographic distance between school districts in Minnesota and Wisconsin.
Natural variation in cytokinin maintenance improves salt tolerance in apple rootstocks
Authors: Feng Yi , Liu Jing , Zhai Longmei , Gan Zengyu , Zhang Guifen , Yang Shuhua , Wang Yi , Wu Ting , Zhang Xinzhong , Xu Xuefeng , Han Zhenhai
Published: July 2018

Plants experiencing salt‐induced stress often reduce cytokinin levels during the early phases of stress‐response. Interestingly, we found that the cytokinin content in the apple rootstock “robusta” was maintained at a high level under salt stress. Through screening genes involved in cytokinin biosynthesis and catabolism, we found that the high expression levels of IPT5b in robusta roots were involved in maintaining the high cytokinin content. We identified a 42 bp deletion in the promoter region of IPT5b, which elevated IPT5b expression levels, and this deletion was linked to salt tolerance in robusta×M.9 segregating population. The 42 bp deletion resulted in the deletion of a Proline Response Element (ProRE), and our results suggest that ProRE negatively regulates IPT5b expression in response to proline. Under salt stress, the robusta cultivar maintains high cytokinin levels as IPT5b expression cannot be inhibited by proline due to the deletion of ProRE, leading to improve salt tolerance.
Photophysical and Photoacoustic Properties of π‐Extended Curcumin Dyes. Effects of the Terminal Dimethylamino Electron‐donor and the Bridging Aryl Ring
Authors: Borg Raymond E. , Hatamimoslehabadi Maryam , Bellinger Stephanie , La Jeffrey , Mithila Farha , Yelleswarapu Chandra , Rochford Jonathan
Published: July 2018

The synthesis, photophysical and photoacoustic characterization for a series of nine π‐extended quadrupolar curcumin dyes is presented. A systematic evaluation of the π‐bridging unit including the p‐phenyl, naphth‐4‐yl, thien‐2‐yl and hybrid 4‐naphthathien‐2‐yl groups is presented. Furthermore, evaluation of the strongly donating donor‐π‐acceptor‐π‐donor quadrupolar dimethylamino terminated derivatives is also included. Select dyes exhibit excited state absorption at increased laser fluence which translates to the production of a nonlinear enhanced photoacoustic response. In particular, the bis‐4‐dimethylaminonaphtha‐2‐thien‐5‐yl curcuminBF2 contrast agent DMA‐5 exhibits an excellent molar photoacoustics (PA) emission at both low (9.4 × 103 V M−1) and high (1.47 × 105 V M−1) laser fluence which is confirmed by its strong contrast by photoacoustic tomography (PAT). In summary, the strong absorbance and enhanced photoacoustic properties of naphthyl and thienyl curcuminoids here presented provides great promise for future photoacoustic imaging applications as demonstrated by preliminary PAT studies.
Methotrexate‐associated lymphoproliferative disorders with angioimmunoblastic T‐cell lymphoma‐like features accompanied by gamma‐heavy chain disease in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Kiyasu Junichi , Arakawa Fumiko , Haji Shojiro , Tachikawa Yoshimichi , Tsuda Mariko , Tsukamoto Yasuhiro , Ikeda Motohiko , Muta Hiroki , Matsushima Takamitsu , Miyoshi Hiroaki , Shiratsuchi Motoaki , Ogawa Yoshihiro , Ohshima Kouichi , Yufu Yuji
Published: July 2018

Although gamma heavy chain disease (γ‐HCD) lesions occasionally morphologically resemble angioimmunoblastic T‐cell lymphoma (AITL), no association has been described in detail due to the rarity of the disease. In this report, we present a rare manifestation of methotrexate (MTX)‐associated lymphoproliferative disorders (LPDs) with AITL‐like features accompanied by γ‐HCD in a 75‐year‐old man with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). A biopsy specimen was evaluated using immunohistochemistry, clonal analyses of immunoglobulin VH and T‐cell receptor γ gene rearrangements by polymerase chain reaction, and Sanger sequencing for confirmation of the structure of deleted γ‐HCD clones. The histological features characterized by proliferation of CD4‐ and PD‐1‐positive medium‐sized T cells and arborizing high endothelial venules together with numbers of small lymphocytes, eosinophils, plasma cells, and histiocytes in the background mimicked those of AITL, but did not completely fulfill the diagnostic criteria. Clonal analysis demonstrated that the specimen contained multiple LPDs of both B‐cell and T‐cell lineages. Sequence analysis confirmed the co‐existence of a clone responsible for production of the abnormal heavy chain. This report provides new insights into the pathology of γ‐HCD. Multiple host‐derived factors (e.g., RA and/or use of MTX) may be responsible for the occurrence of LPDs of multiple lineages within a single lymph node.
Loneliness in Chinese older adults in primary care: prevalence and correlates
Authors: Zhong Bao‐Liang , Liu Xiu‐Jun , Chen Wen‐Cai , Chiu Helen Fung‐Kum , Conwell Yeates
Published: July 2018

Background

Loneliness is a significant public health concern among older adults (OA) given its association with a wide range of adverse health outcomes. Primary care is an opportune setting to manage loneliness. However, the epidemiology of loneliness in Chinese OA treated in primary care remains unclear. The present study investigated the prevalence and correlates of loneliness in OA treated in Chinese primary care.

Methods

A total of 744 OA patients (65+ years) were consecutively recruited from 13 primary care clinics in Wuhan, China, and interviewed with a standardized questionnaire, concerning sociodemographic characteristics, lifestyle, relationships with family and others, physical health, and sensory impairments. Consistent with prior research on the construct, loneliness was measured with a single‐item self‐report question. Logistic regression was used to identify correlates of loneliness.

Results

Of primary care OA patients, 26.2% endorsed loneliness. Factors significantly and independently associated with loneliness included 75+ age group (odds ratio [OR]: 1.61, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.07, 2.44, P: 0.023), being illiterate (OR: 2.07, 95%CI: 1.26, 3.42, P: 0.004), unmarried (OR: 2.30, 95%CI: 1.40, 3.78, P: 0.001), living alone (OR: 4.37, 95%CI: 2.27, 8.41, P < 0.001), having fair and poor family (OR: 2.44, 95%CI: 1.48, 4.00, P < 0.001) and non‐family relationships (OR: 1.75, 95%CI: 1.10, 2.78, P: 0.019), and ≥2 chronic medical conditions (OR: 2.91, 95%CI: 1.22, 6.95, P: 0.016).

Conclusions

Loneliness is common in Chinese primary care OA. The high prevalence and many negative health consequences of loneliness for OA highlight the importance of routine screening, assessment, and interventions to reduce loneliness in the primary health‐care setting.
Moderating effect of depression on the association between pain and activities of daily living in older adults
Authors: Ko Kai‐Ting , Yu Shu‐Han , Lee Chun‐Yi , Tseng Han‐Yun , Chiu Yen‐Feng , Hsiung Chao A.
Published: July 2018

Background

Maintaining older adults’ ability to function independently in the community is a critically important public health concern. One of the most common symptoms threatening that ability is pain. Depression is a common co‐occurring symptom in older adults with pain. In the present study, we determined the moderating effect of depression on the association between pain and functional limitations.

Methods

Data were from the Healthy Aging Longitudinal Study in Taiwan, a population‐based study of community‐dwelling older adults in Taiwan (N = 2680). All data were collected by face‐to‐face interviews. Sociodemographic and health‐related factors along with the location and severity of pain were collected. Functional limitation was assessed using the Barthel Index of Activities of Daily Living, whereas depression was assessed using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale.

Results

Pain presence was not significantly associated with functional limitation, but overall pain severity and number of pain sites were. Depressive older adults exhibited a stronger association of pain and functional limitation.

Conclusion

Depression moderates the relation between pain and functional limitation. This knowledge may be valuable in developing effective public health and clinical management strategies to reduce functional limitation in older adults.
Assessing wandering risk among individuals with Alzheimer's disease and dementia: a pilot study
Authors: Barnard‐Brak Lucy , Richman David M. , Owen Donna C.
Published: July 2018

Background

We examined a screening instrument to assess risk for wandering among individuals with Alzheimer's disease and dementia according to caregiver informants.

Methods

Pilot data were collected on the Risk of Wandering (RoW) screening instrument by 48 responses from an online survey using the Alzheimer's Association Trial Match system.

Results

Results indicated acceptable evidence of the internal consistency of scores for the data obtained, α = 0.81. Receiver operating characteristic curve results indicated acceptable evidence of the screening instrument scores’ ability to discriminate between individuals who eloped and those who did not wander off, AUC = 0.72, P = 0.003.

Conclusions

A cut‐off score for future use is suggested along with directions for future research. The development of a screening instrument would appear to be preferable to restricting the movement of these individuals or unnecessarily invading their privacy through monitoring devices while simultaneously balancing the desire to prevent distress, serious injury, or death.
Imaging studies of kleptomania in a middle‐aged woman with obsessive–compulsive disorder: a case report
Authors: Midorikawa Haruhiko , Ide Masayuki , Nemoto Kiyotaka , Mizukami Katsuyoshi , Asada Takashi , Arai Tetsuaki
Published: July 2018

A 57‐year‐old woman who had been arrested for shoplifting visited our hospital. She was diagnosed with kleptomania. She had previously been diagnosed with CREST (calcinosis, Raynaud's phenomenon, esophageal dysmotility, sclerodactyly, and telangiectasia) syndrome and obsessive–compulsive disorder. Cranial magnetic resonance imaging showed mild atrophy of the bilateral dorsolateral prefrontal cortices, left hippocampus, and occipital cortex, as well as diffuse mild T2 hyperintensity in the deep and subcortical white matter, including the frontal region. During a single‐photon emission computed tomography scan, significant hyperperfusion was observed in the right ventral striatum, including the nucleus accumbens, ventral thalamus, and right ventrolateral prefrontal areas. Patchy hypoperfusion was found in the bilateral posterior cingulate, parietal, and occipital regions. The patient's neurocognitive function was normal, except for slight impairment of her executive function. Her symptoms and neuroimaging findings were not suggestive of a specific neurocognitive disorder. Hyperactivity of the right ventral striatum may contribute to both obsessive–compulsive disorder and kleptomania. Although frontotemporal lobar degeneration is a major neurocognitive disorder related to illegal behaviours, CREST syndrome‐induced white matter microstructural damage in the orbitofrontal lobe could have caused our patient's kleptomania.
Effects of cover soil stockpiling on plant community development following reclamation of oil sands sites in Alberta
Authors: Dhar Amalesh , Comeau Philip G. , Vassov Robert
Published: July 2018

Stockpiling of cover soil can influence vegetation development following reclamation. Cover soil, comprising the upper 15–30 cm of the surface material on sites scheduled for mining, is commonly salvaged prior to mining and used directly or stockpiled for various lengths of time until it is needed. Salvaging and stockpiling causes physical, chemical, and biological changes in cover soils. In particular, stockpiling reduces the availability and vigor of vegetative propagules and seed, and can lead to increases in the abundance of some weedy species. This study uses data from monitoring plots to assess how stockpiling of cover soil impacts plant community development on reclaimed oil sands mine sites in northern Alberta. Development of plant communities differed distinctly between directly placed and stockpiled cover soil treatments even 18 years after reclamation. Direct placement of cover soil resulted in higher percent cover, species richness, and diversity. Nonmetric multidimensional scaling and multiresponse permutation procedure revealed compositional differentiation between the treatments. Indicator species analysis showed that direct placement treatment was dominated by perennial species while grasses and annual forb species dominated sites where stockpiled soil was used. Results indicate that stockpiling leads to slower vegetation recovery while direct placement of cover soil supports more rapid succession (from ruderal and annual communities to perennial communities). In addition, direct placement may be less costly than stockpiling. However, scheduling of salvage and placement remains a challenge.
Spatial analysis of water quality and its suitability in farming giant freshwater prawn (Macrobrachium rosenbergii) in Negeri Sembilan region, Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Bwadi Benjamin Ezekiel , Mustafa Firuza Begham , Ali Mohammad Lokman , Bhassu Subha
Published: July 2018

Finding potential sites for resilient prawn production in the tropical environment that also prevents wastage of natural resources is not an easy task. The purpose of this study is to evaluate water quality suitability for prawn farming in Negeri Sembilan of Peninsular Malaysia based on Geographic Information System (GIS). To achieve this goal, numerous criteria including sources of water, water temperature, water pH, sources of pollution, salinity, soil texture and availability of phytoplankton criteria were considered for the modelling process. Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) technique was performed to standardize the criteria and the weighting process. The weighted overlay of indicators and results were accomplished by applying the Multi‐Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) method in GIS. It was indicated that the Negeri Sembilan area has potential for prawn farming. The results showed that about 25 per cent (163 056.93 ha) of the area was most suitable for prawn farming, about 58 per cent (384 656.88 ha) was considered moderately suitable, while 18 per cent (117 633.49 ha) was regarded as least suitable. The study concluded that the multi‐criteria decision analysis of water quality for prawn farming is vital for regional economic planning in the Negeri Sembilan area and also significant when establishing a model for aquaculture development.
Letermovir successfully used for secondary prophylaxis in a heart transplant recipient with ganciclovir‐resistant cytomegalovirus syndrome (UL97 mutation)
Authors: Chong Pearlie P. , Teiber Dagny , Prokesch Bonnie C. , Arasaratnam Reuben J. , Peltz Matthias , Drazner Mark H. , Garg Sonia
Published: July 2018

Letermovir was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in November 2017 for use in adult cytomegalovirus (CMV)‐seropositive allogeneic stem cell transplant (SCT) recipients for primary prophylaxis of CMV infection and disease. We report off‐label use of letermovir for secondary prophylaxis of genotype‐confirmed ganciclovir‐resistant cytomegalovirus (CMV) syndrome (UL 97 mutation [C603W]) in a heart transplant recipient initially treated with intravenous cidofovir followed by foscarnet, both discontinued due to unacceptable toxicities.
Canine urinary bladder transitional cell carcinoma tumor volume is dependent on imaging modality and measurement technique
Authors: Leffler Andrew J. , Hostnik Eric T. , Warry Emma E. , Habing Gregory G. , Auld Danelle M. , Green Eric M. , Drost Wm Tod
Published: July 2018

Transitional cell carcinoma is the most common cancer of the canine urinary tract. The inconsistent appearance of transitional cell carcinoma in patients introduces error if applying mathematic models for extrapolating total tumor volume from linear measurements. Reliable techniques to assess tumor size are important for monitoring treatment response. A method comparison study was performed comparing four techniques for calculating tumor volume were compared: (1 and 2) contoured tracing of tumor margins using serial computed tomography (CT) images using pre‐(1) and postintravenous (2) contrast medium studies, (3) longest three linear dimensions using CT, and (4) longest three linear dimensions on abdominal ultrasound. Volumes of the transitional cell carcinoma tumor calculated by CT tracing techniques were significantly smaller than volumes calculated with an ellipsoid mathematic model using the linear measurements (P < 0.01). Intravenous contrast medium did not significantly change the volumes calculated from tracing tumor margins on CT for observer B; however, volumes differed for observer A. The volumes extrapolated from linear measurements using CT and ultrasound did not differ significantly. The interobserver reliability was highest for the precontrast CT contoured technique and was lowest using the ultrasound linear technique. Tumor volumes differed significantly between techniques of contoured tracing of the tumor margins on serial CT images compared to calculation of tumor volume from linear dimensions. The calculated volume of a transitional cell carcinoma depends upon the technique used. Characterizing the response of urinary bladder transitional cell carcinoma tumor size to therapy differs based on the method and modality used.
Modeling the kinetics and cost performance index of high rate up‐flow anaerobic, anoxic, oxic bioreactor for meat wastewater treatment
Authors: Abyar Hajar , Younesi Habibollah , Bahramifar Nader , Zinatizadeh Ali Akbar
Published: July 2018

The simultaneous biological removal of COD, TN and phosphorus from meat industrial wastewater (MIW) using a lab‐scale high rate up‐flow anaerobic–anoxic–oxic bioreactor (A2O bioreactor) was investigated. The bioreactor was operated at different HRT, COD/TN ratio and aerated volume fractions to monitor the COD and nutrient removal efficiency. The maximum COD removal rate was detected at HRT of 5 h and COD/TN ratio of 100 : 12. The total nitrogen removal efficiency was changed between 65.8 and 94.4% and the lowest effluent nitrate concentration was measured as 1.6 mg/l. Seven kinetic models were applied to experimental data to determine the substrate utilization rate. The Monod and Haldane models were ideal to estimate the reactor performance. Moreover, the cost performance evaluation indicated the A2O bioreactor capability in low energy consumption for MIW treatment. According to the modeling results, integrating anaerobic and aerobic zones within a single bioreactor could be beneficial and cost‐effective due to the high effluent quality and low operational costs.
Peer Effects and Scholastic Achievement: Regression Discontinuity Estimates Using the Age Sorting Criterion in the Composition of Classrooms
Authors: Raposo Isabel Pessoa de Arruda , Soares Sammara Cavalcanti , Menezes Tatiane Almeida de
Published: July 2018

This paper evaluates the influence of the classmates’ age on individual academic achievement. The identification strategy explores a mechanism for the division of classes based on age homogeneity, with cutoff value determined by the Brazilian law of age at school entry. Fuzzy regression discontinuity estimates a local average treatment effect of 2.34 standard deviations favorable to students assigned to class with older peers, in comparison to those allocated to classes with younger classmates. The empirical estimations use a unique educational dataset originated from the Brazilian Ministry of Education, which provides a large information set related to the student’s scholar environment.
Real‐time optical manipulation of cardiac conduction in intact hearts
Authors: Scardigli M. , Müllenbroich C. , Margoni E. , Cannazzaro S. , Crocini C. , Ferrantini C. , Coppini R. , Yan P. , Loew L. M. , Campione M. , Bocchi L. , Giulietti D. , Cerbai E. , Poggesi C. , Bub G. , Pavone F. S. , Sacconi L.
Published: July 2018

Key points

Although optogenetics has clearly demonstrated the feasibility of cardiac manipulation, current optical stimulation strategies lack the capability to react acutely to ongoing cardiac wave dynamics.

Here, we developed an all‐optical platform to monitor and control electrical activity in real‐time.

The methodology was applied to restore normal electrical activity after atrioventricular block and to manipulate the intraventricular propagation of the electrical wavefront.

The closed‐loop approach was also applied to simulate a re‐entrant circuit across the ventricle.

The development of this innovative optical methodology provides the first proof‐of‐concept that a real‐time all‐optical stimulation can control cardiac rhythm in normal and abnormal conditions.

Optogenetics has provided new insights in cardiovascular research, leading to new methods for cardiac pacing, resynchronization therapy and cardioversion. Although these interventions have clearly demonstrated the feasibility of cardiac manipulation, current optical stimulation strategies do not take into account cardiac wave dynamics in real time. Here, we developed an all‐optical platform complemented by integrated, newly developed software to monitor and control electrical activity in intact mouse hearts. The system combined a wide‐field mesoscope with a digital projector for optogenetic activation. Cardiac functionality could be manipulated either in free‐run mode with submillisecond temporal resolution or in a closed‐loop fashion: a tailored hardware and software platform allowed real‐time intervention capable of reacting within 2 ms. The methodology was applied to restore normal electrical activity after atrioventricular block, by triggering the ventricle in response to optically mapped atrial activity with appropriate timing. Real‐time intraventricular manipulation of the propagating electrical wavefront was also demonstrated, opening the prospect for real‐time resynchronization therapy and cardiac defibrillation. Furthermore, the closed‐loop approach was applied to simulate a re‐entrant circuit across the ventricle demonstrating the capability of our system to manipulate heart conduction with high versatility even in arrhythmogenic conditions. The development of this innovative optical methodology provides the first proof‐of‐concept that a real‐time optically based stimulation can control cardiac rhythm in normal and abnormal conditions, promising a new approach for the investigation of the (patho)physiology of the heart.
Synchronization of Quadratic Chaotic Systems Based on Simultaneous Estimation of Nonlinear Dynamics
Authors: Zarei Amin , Tavakoli Saeed
Published: July 2018

To synchronize quadratic chaotic systems, a synchronization scheme based on simultaneous estimation of nonlinear dynamics (SEND) is presented in this paper. To estimate quadratic terms, a compensator including Jacobian matrices in the proposed master–slave schematic is considered. According to the proposed control law and Lyapunov theorem, the asymptotic convergence of synchronization error to zero is proved. To identify unknown parameters, an adaptive mechanism is also used. Finally, a number of numerical simulations are provided for the Lorenz system and a memristor-based chaotic system to verify the proposed method.
Nutritional Intake in Elite Cross-Country Skiers During Two Days of Training and Competition
Authors: Carr Amelia , McGawley Kerry , Govus Andrew , Andersson Erik P. , Shannon Oliver M. , Mattsson Stig , Melin Anna
Published: July 2018

This study investigated the energy, macronutrient, and fluid intakes, as well as hydration status (urine specific gravity), in elite cross-country skiers during a typical day of training (Day 1) and a sprint skiing competition the following day (Day 2). A total of 31 (18 males and 13 females) national team skiers recorded their food and fluid intakes and urine specific gravity was measured on Days 1 and 2. In addition, the females completed the Low Energy Availability in Females Questionnaire to assess their risk of long-term energy deficiency. Energy intake for males was 65 ± 9 kcal/kg on Day 1 versus 58 ± 9 kcal/kg on Day 2 (p = .002) and for females was 57 ± 10 on Day 1 versus 55 ± 5 kcal/kg on Day 2 (p = .445). Carbohydrate intake recommendations of 10–12 g·kg−1·day−1 were not met by 89% of males and 92% of females. All males and females had a protein intake above the recommended 1.2–2.0 g/kg on both days and a postexercise protein intake above the recommended 0.3 g/kg. Of the females, 31% were classified as being at risk of long-term energy deficiency. In the morning of Day 1, 50% of males and 46% of females were dehydrated; on Day 2, this was the case for 56% of males and 38% of females. In conclusion, these data suggest that elite cross-country skiers ingested more protein and less carbohydrate than recommended and one third of the females were considered at risk of long-term energy deficiency. Furthermore, many of the athletes were dehydrated prior to training and competition.
Comparison of Body Composition Assessment Methods in Professional Urban Firefighters
Authors: Smee Disa J. , Walker Anthony , Rattray Ben , Cooke Julie A. , Serpell Ben G. , Pumpa Kate L.
Published: July 2018

Given the importance of body composition in maintaining optimal physical and functional capacities, the use of appropriate, field-based assessment tools should be a priority to assist in maintaining the occupational safety of firefighters and the community. For ease, body mass index has often been used to assess these changes. However, it is limited in its accuracy. The purposes of this study were twofold: (a) to compare the validity of different measures of body composition against dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) in urban firefighters and (b) to assess these measures in their ability to provide meaningful interpretation of criteria-driven categories of adiposity. A total of 64 male firefighters (age = 44.0 ± 9.5 years) underwent full anthropometric profiling (predictor equations used to determine body fat percentage [BF%]), bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), and DXA assessments. Participants’ body mass index was calculated, and BF% and lean mass were determined along with criteria-driven categorizations of adiposity. Anthropometric (skinfolds) predictor equations (e.g., mean bias = −4.4% for BF%) were typically closer to DXA measures, compared with BIA (9.4% for BF%). However, when determining categories of criteria-driven adiposity, BIA (42.9% overweight or obese) provided closer estimates to the DXA-determined distribution (44.6%) than anthropometric-based measures (up to 40%). Body mass index appears an inappropriate measure for accurately determining categories of adiposity with 64.1% classified as overweight or obese. Given the logistical constraints of anthropometric profiling, and the closeness of BIA to DXA in adiposity categories, BIA may be a suitable alternative to DXA for assessing body composition in professional urban firefighters.
Biomechanical Outcomes Due to Impact Loading in Runners While Looking Sideways
Authors: Mangubat Anamaria Laudet Silva , Zhang Janet Hanwen , Chan Zoe Yau-Shan , MacPhail Aislinn Joan , Au Ivan Pui-Hung , Cheung Roy Tsz-Hei
Published: July 2018

A stable gaze is necessary to optimize visual conditions during running. Head accelerations generally remain stable when looking in front; however, it is unclear if this response is similar when the head is turned sideways, and whether other adaptive strategies are present to maintain this stability. The purpose of this study, therefore, was to examine whether runners maintained stable head accelerations while gazing at fixed targets in front and to their sides. The authors collected biomechanical data from 13 runners as they directed their gaze to visual targets located in front, 45°, and 90° to the sides at a random sequence. Vertical head and tibial accelerations were the primary outcome measures, while vertical loading rate, footstrike angle, contact time, stride length, and stride rate were the secondary measures. A reduction in vertical head accelerations was found in the rightmost direction (P = .04), while an increase in vertical tibial accelerations was found on the same direction (P = .02). No other significant differences were observed for the other variables. The results of this study suggest that the tibia accommodated the increased shock to maintain head stability.
The Functional Utilization of Propulsive Capacity During Human Walking
Authors: Conway Katie A. , Bissette Randall G. , Franz Jason R.
Published: July 2018

Aging and many gait pathologies are characterized by reduced propulsive forces and ankle moment and power generation during trailing leg push-off in walking. Despite those changes, we posit that many individuals retain an underutilized reserve for enhancing push-off intensity during walking that may be missed using conventional dynamometry. By using a maximum ramped impeding force protocol and maximum speed walking, we gained mechanistic insight into the factors that govern push-off intensity and the available capacity thereof during walking in young subjects. We discovered in part that young subjects walking at their preferred speed retain a reserve capacity for exerting larger propulsive forces of 49%, peak ankle power of 43%, and peak ankle moment of 22% during push-off—the latter overlooked by maximum isometric dynamometry. We also provide evidence that these reserve capacities are governed at least in part by the neuromechanical behavior of the plantarflexor muscles, at least with regard to ankle moment generation. We envision that a similar paradigm used to quantify propulsive reserves in older adults or people with gait pathology would empower the more discriminate and personalized prescription of gait interventions seeking to improve push-off intensity and thus walking performance.
Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Studies to Assess Safety and Prophylactic Efficacy of Naphthoquine-Azithromycin Combination for Malaria Prophylaxis in Southeast Asia
Authors: Yang Henglin , Wang Jingyan , Liu Hui , Li Xingliang , Nie Renhua , Li Chunfu , Wang Hengye , Wang Qinghu , Cao Yaming , Cui Liwang
Published: July 2018

New prophylactic drugs against malaria infections are urgently needed. We conducted randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 2 trials of a new antimalarial drug combination, naphthoquine-azithromycin (NQAZ), to determine its safety and protective efficacy in a low-endemicity area of Southeast Asia.
Echinocandin Treatment of Candida albicans Biofilms Enhances Neutrophil Extracellular Trap Formation
Authors: Hoyer Amanda R. , Johnson Chad J. , Hoyer Matthew R. , Kernien John F. , Nett Jeniel E.
Published: July 2018

The nosocomial pathogen
Candida albicans
forms biofilms on medical devices that persist in the face of antifungals and host defenses. Echinocandins, the most effective antibiofilm drugs, have recently been shown to augment the activity of neutrophils against biofilms through an unknown mechanism.
Standardization of Pneumococcal Biofilm Release to PncO Expression, a Predictive Measurement of Virulence
Authors: Hill A. , Beitelshees M. , Pfeifer B. A. , Jones C. H.
Published: July 2018

A critical component in clinical trials for vaccines against pneumococcal disease is the establishment of robust preclinical models and clinical correlates of protection, which, in the case of the causative bacterial agent
Streptococcus pneumoniae
, include standard sepsis/pneumonia mouse models and opsonophagocytic activity (OPA), respectively. Despite broad usage, these gold-standard measures are ill equipped to evaluate nontraditional antigens that target virulence factors beyond capsular polysaccharides and/or proteins not associated with colonization or routine growth.