bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dissimilarity measure for ranking data via mixture of copulae*
Authors: Bonanomi Andrea , Nai Ruscone Marta , Osmetti Silvia A.
Published: February 2019

We define a new distance measure for ranking data using a mixture of copula functions. Our distance measure evaluates the dissimilarity of subjects' ranking preferences to segment them via hierarchical cluster analysis. The proposed distance measure builds upon Spearman grade correlation coefficient on a copula transformation of rank denoting the level of importance assigned by subjects on the classification of k objects. These mixtures of copulae enable flexible modeling of the different types of dependence structures found in data and the consideration of various circumstances in the classification process. For example, by using mixtures of copulae with lower and upper tail dependence, we can emphasize the agreement on extreme ranks when they are considered important.
Concise Review: Skeletal Muscle as a Delivery Route for Mesenchymal Stromal Cells
Authors: Hamidian Jahromi Shiva , Davies John E.
Published: February 2019

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have demonstrated extensive capacity to modulate a catabolic microenvironment toward tissue repair. The fate, biodistribution, and dwell time of the in vivo delivered MSCs largely depend on the choice of the cell delivery route. Intramuscular (IM) delivery of MSCs is clinically safe and has been used for the effective treatment of local pathologies. Recent findings have shown that the secretome of the IM-delivered MSCs enters the circulation and provides systemic effects on distant organs. In addition, muscle tissue provides a safe residence for the delivered MSCs and an extended secretorily active dwell time compared with other delivery routes. There are, however, controversies concerning the fate of MSCs post IM-delivery and, specifically, into an injured site with proinflammatory cues. This review seeks to provide a brief overview of the fate and efficacy of IM-delivered MSCs and to identify the gaps that require further assessment for adoption of this promising route in the treatment of systemic disease. Stem Cells Translational Medicine  2019;8:456–465
Encapsulation of a Palladium Schiff‐Base Complex into the Nanocages of Mesoporous SBA‐16 as an Efficient Heterogeneous Catalyst for the Suzuki‐Miyaura Coupling Reaction in Water
Authors: Niakan Mahsa , Asadi Zahra , Masteri‐Farahani Majid
Published: February 2019

A palladium Schiff base complex was successfully encapsulated in the nanocages of SBA‐16 by post‐reducing the pore entrance size through a simple silylation method. The prepared material was demonstrated to be a high‐performance and efficient heterogeneous catalyst in the Suzuki‐Miyaura reaction of a wide range of aryl halides with arylboronic acids even with low palladium loading (0.01 mol%) under mild aqueous condition. The catalyst could be recovered by simple filtration from the reaction mixture and reused for eight cycles with no change in catalytic performance confirming its good stability. Comparison of the activity of free and encapsulated complex revealed that placement of the complex in the nanocages of SBA‐16 did not compromise its catalytic activity. Moreover, based on the experimental results, we proposed a possible reaction mechanism, which was further confirmed by density functional theory (DFT) calculations.
One‐pot Synthesis of 4‐Aryl‐NH‐1,2,3‐triazoles in Presence of Fe3O4@SiO2@Propyl‐HMTA as a New Basic Catalyst
Authors: Mirzaei‐Mosbat Maryam , Ghorbani‐Vaghei Ramin , Sarmast Narges
Published: February 2019

In this paper, hexamethylenetetramine‐functionalized magnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles (Fe3O4@SiO2@Propyl‐HMTA) catalyst was prepared and utilized for the synthesis of 4‐aryl‐NH‐1,2,3‐triazole derivatives. Also, the interaction between aldehyde, nitromethane, and sodium azide was investigated within the synthesis route. Henry Reaction between the aldehyde and nitromethane created an intermediate that was immediately attacked by N3−. As a result of this attack, 4‐aryl‐NH‐1,2,3‐triazole was generated through an in situ [3 + 2] cycloaddition.
Recent Advances in Hollow Porous Carbon Materials for Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Fu Ang , Wang Chaozhi , Pei Fei , Cui Jingqin , Fang Xiaoliang , Zheng Nanfeng
Published: February 2019

Lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries are considered as one of the most potential next‐generation rechargeable batteries due to their high theoretical energy density. However, some critical issues, such as low capacity, poor cycling stability, and safety concerns, must be solved before Li–S batteries can be used practically. During the past decade, tremendous efforts have been devoted to the design and synthesis of electrode materials. Benefiting from their tunable structural parameters, hollow porous carbon materials (HPCM) remarkably enhance the performances of both sulfur cathodes and lithium anodes, promoting the development of high‐performance Li–S batteries. Here, together with the templated synthesis of HPCM, recent progresses of Li–S batteries based on HPCM are reviewed. Several important issues in Li–S batteries, including sulfur loading, polysulfide entrapping, and Li metal protection, are discussed, followed by a summary on recent research on HPCM‐based sulfur cathodes, modified separators, and lithium anodes. After the discussion on emerging technical obstacles toward high‐energy Li–S batteries, prospects for the future directions of HPCM research in the field of Li–S batteries are also proposed.
Biocompatibility of Amine‐Functionalized Silica Nanoparticles: The Role of Surface Coverage
Authors: Hsiao I‐Lun , Fritsch‐Decker Susanne , Leidner Arnold , Al‐Rawi Marco , Hug Vanessa , Diabaté Silvia , Grage Stephan L , Meffert Matthias , Stoeger Tobias , Gerthsen Dagmar , Ulrich Anne S. , Niemeyer Christof M. , Weiss Carsten
Published: February 2019

Here, amorphous silica nanoparticles (NPs), one of the most abundant nanomaterials, are used as an example to illustrate the utmost importance of surface coverage by functional groups which critically determines biocompatibility. Silica NPs are functionalized with increasing amounts of amino groups, and the number of surface exposed groups is quantified and characterized by detailed NMR and fluorescamine binding studies. Subsequent biocompatibility studies in the absence of serum demonstrate that, irrespective of surface modification, both plain and amine‐modified silica NPs trigger cell death in RAW 264.7 macrophages. The in vitro results can be confirmed in vivo and are predictive for the inflammatory potential in murine lungs. In the presence of serum proteins, on the other hand, a replacement of only 10% of surface‐active silanol groups by amines is sufficient to suppress cytotoxicity, emphasizing the relevance of exposure conditions. Mechanistic investigations identify a key role of lysosomal injury for cytotoxicity only in the presence, but not in the absence, of serum proteins. In conclusion, this work shows the critical need to rigorously characterize the surface coverage of NPs by their constituent functional groups, as well as the impact of serum, to reliably establish quantitative nanostructure activity relationships and develop safe nanomaterials.
The Role of Sequential Enzyme Treatments on Structural and Physicochemical Properties of Cassava Starch Granules
Authors: Guo Li , Li Hui , Lu Lu , Zou Feixue , Tao Haiteng , Cui Bo
Published: February 2019

To illuminate the relationship between the branch chain structures and physicochemical characteristics of cassava starch and to expand the range of its functionality, cassava starch granules are modified with sequential α‐amylase from hog pancreas, barley β‐amylase, and transglucosidase from Aspergillus niger. The molecular weight and amylose contents of the enzyme‐modified starches decrease, and the modified starches exhibits increased numbers of short and medium chains and a higher branch density compared with those of control starch. The crystal pattern is transformed from A‐type to a mixture of A‐type and V‐type, and the crystallinity is reduced. The enzyme‐modified starches exhibits increased solubility and paste clarity, a more homogeneous crystal distribution, and reduced gelatinization temperatures, gelatinization enthalpy, and viscosity compared with those of control starch. The enzyme‐treated starches exhibit a larger elasticity modulus, a viscous modulus, and a reduced loss angle tangent when the range of the transglucosidase treatment time is from 2 to 4 h, whereas the opposite effect is observed when the transglucosidase treatment time ranges from 8 to 10 h. These findings demonstrate that the rheological properties of the enzyme‐modified starch are significantly dependent on the time of the transglucosidase treatment. Thus, triple enzyme modification may supply a new potential method to obtain the expected hydrophilic, rheological, and thermal properties of cassava starch.
Functional Equivalency in Human Somatic Cell Nuclear Transfer-Derived Endothelial Cells
Authors: Park Soon-Jung , Lee Ji-Heon , Lee Seul-Gi , Lee Jeoung Eun , Seo Joseph , Choi Jong Jin , Jung Taek-Hee , Chung Eun-Bin , Kim Ha Na , Ju Jongil , Song Yun-Ho , Chung Hyung-Min , Lee Dong Ryul , Moon Sung-Hwan
Published: February 2019

The derivation of human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) by somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) has prompted a re-emerging interest in using such cells for therapeutic cloning. Despite recent advancements in derivation protocols, the functional potential of CHA-NT4 derived cells is yet to be elucidated. For this reason, this study sought to differentiate CHA-NT4 cells toward an endothelial lineage in order to evaluate in vitro and in vivo functionality. To initial differentiation, embryoid body formation of CHA-NT4 was mediated by concave microwell system which was optimized for hESC-endothelial cell (EC) differentiation. The isolated CD31+ cells exhibited hallmark endothelial characteristics in terms of morphology, tubule formation, and ac-LDL uptake. Furthermore, CHA-NT4-derived EC (human nuclear transfer [hNT]-ESC-EC) transplantation in hind limb ischemic mice rescued the hind limb and restored blood perfusion. These findings suggest that hNT-ESC-EC are functionally equivalent to hESC-ECs, warranting further study of CHA-NT4 derivatives in comparison to other well established pluripotent stem cell lines. This revival of human SCNT-ESC research may lead to interesting insights into cellular behavior in relation to donor profile, mitochondrial DNA, and oocyte quality. Stem Cells  2019;37:623–630
Chemopreventive efficacy zingerone (4‐[4‐hydroxy‐3‐methylphenyl] butan‐2‐one) in experimental colon carcinogenesis in Wistar rats
Authors: Ganaie Majid Ahmad , Al Saeedan Abdulaziz , Madhkali Hassan , Jan Basit Lateef , Khatlani Tanvir , Sheikh Ishfaq Ahmad , Rehman Muneeb U. , Wani Khalida
Published: February 2019

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide. Development of naturally occurring inexpensive and safe alternatives can be effective in suppressing colon related proliferations. Zingerone (4‐[4‐hydroxy‐3‐methylphenyl] butan‐2‐one), a polyphenolic alkanone of ginger, has massive pharmacological properties and thus can be used as promising candidate against various ailments. In the current study, we aimed at demonstrating the protective effect of zingerone against experimental colon carcinogenesis and elucidating its possible mechanism by studying inflammatory and Nrf‐2 signaling cascade. Four groups of animals (I‐IV) were made with six animals each. Group I (control) was given normal saline orally. Group II was given 1,2‐dimethylhydrazine (DMH) at the dose rate of 20 mg/kg body weight. Group III and IV were treated with DMH at the dose rate of 20 mg/kg body weight and also received oral treatment of zingerone at a dose rate of 50 and 100 mg/kg body weight, respectively, for first 5 weeks and animals were euthanized after 16 weeks. Our results reveal that DMH treated rats exhibited elevated ROS and MDA levels, increased activity of cytochrome P450 2E1 and serum marker enzyme carcinoembreyonic antigen (CEA), increased no of aberrant crypts of foci (ACF), and elevated expression of inflammatory and proliferative proteins. Nrf‐2 was downregulated by DMH treatment. Treatment with zingerone to DMH treated rats, resulted in alterations in the activity of the cytochrome P450 2E1 and CEA. In addition, immunostaining of NF‐kB‐p65, COX‐2, iNOS, and PCNA, Ki‐67 was suppressed by zingerone. Furthermore, zingerone administration also attenuated the level of IL‐6 and TNF‐α and it also helps in preserving mucous layer. Thus, zingerone could be considered as a good chemopreventive agent in experimental model of colon carcinogenesis. Further studies are required to study other pathways involved in colon carcinogenesis and their modulation buy zingerone.
Nest survival data confirm managed housing is an important component to the conservation of the eastern purple martin
Authors: Raleigh Daniel , Ray James D. , Grisham Blake A. , Siegrist Joe , Greene Daniel U.
Published: February 2019

The purple martin (Progne subis) is entrenched in a consistent, long‐term decline. This is especially true for the subspecies east of the Rocky Mountains (P. s. subis), which today nests almost exclusively in provisioned housing (birdhouses and hollow gourds) provided by citizen scientists. One benefit of provisioned housing is reduced nest‐site competition with nonnative European starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) and house sparrows (Passer domesticus) when managed by citizen scientists. Increased competition for nest sites and subsequently lower productivity due to declining management of available housing is speculated to be primary factors for their long‐term declines. To assess whether managed housing promoted high nest‐survival metrics, we used a 19‐year database (1995–2013) of nest‐check records provided by Project MartinWatch, a citizen science program of the Purple Martin Conservation Association. We compared nest ecology metrics and survival among housing and entrance‐hole type to assess if specific provisioned housing or entrance‐hole type increased clutch size or number of chicks fledged. Using 72,627 nests across 8 regions monitored by citizen scientists, our major findings were 1) nest survival was >85% among 8 regions in the eastern United States and Canada; and 2) clutch size and number of fledglings produced were slightly larger in natural and artificial gourds with entrances designed to exclude European starlings; but 3) housing and entrance‐hole types were not important predictors of nest survival and clutch size had a small, inverse relationship with daily nest survival (βClutch = −0.002). Our results suggest managed housing is an important conservation tool based on previously undocumented high nest survival across the numerous artificial housing options. Our findings encourage the use of artificial and natural gourds with European starling‐resistant entrance holes, but promotion of managed artificial housing of any type in North America is beneficial and strongly encouraged. © 2019 The Wildlife Society.
Discrete Neutral Niobium Cluster Units in Compounds of the Type [Nb6Cl14L4] with L = O or N Donor Ligand
Authors: Sperlich Eric , König Jonas , Weiß Daniel Holger , Schröder Florian , Köckerling Martin
Published: February 2019

Six new hexanuclear niobium cluster compounds of the general formula [Nb6Cl14L4]·x(solvent molecule) [L = neutral O or N donor ligand, x = 0–2.5; pyrimidine (1), 1‐methyl imidazole (2), isobutyronitrile (3), isopropyl alcohol (4), triphenylphosphine oxide (5), dimethyl sulfoxide (6)] were prepared. The syntheses were carried out by dehydration of the precursor [Nb6Cl14(H2O)4]·4H2O with different water scavangers, like acetic anhydride, trimethyl acetic anhydride and diethylcarbonate in the presence of the corresponding neutral ligand. The structures are determined by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. The specific bonding situations of the ligands to the [Nb6Cl12]2+ cluster cores are compared and discussed. The phenomenon of the observed M6 distortion is explained and interpreted based on the matrix effect and the terminal ligand effect. In addition, other interactions between the cluster units, such as hydrogen bonding and π–π stacking are discussed.
Lactamomethylsilanes – Synthesis, Structures, and Reactivity towards CO2 and Phenylisocyanate
Authors: Herbig Marcus , Böhme Uwe , Kroke Edwin
Published: February 2019

Lactamomethylsilanes of γ‐butyrolactam, δ‐valerolactam, ε‐caprolactam, and 1‐isoindolinone (phthalimidine) with up to three methyl moieties were synthesized according to the chemical formula MexSiLac(4–x) (x = 0, 1, 2, and 3). Using the lactams as starting materials four synthetic routes were tested: salt elimination, transsilylation, transamination, and metallation of the lactames followed by reaction with methylchlorosilanes. All products were analyzed by NMR (1H, 13C and 29Si) and RAMAN spectroscopy. Selected solid products were crystallized and the molecular structure was determined by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. The reactivity of the lactamomethylsilanes towards phenylisocyanate and CO2 was studied.
Ag‐Enhanced TiO2–x/C Composites with Metal‐Organic Frameworks as Precursors for Photodegradation of Methyl Blue
Authors: Fan Dongmei , Xu Qing
Published: February 2019

A series of Ag‐enhanced TiO2–x/C composites (Ag/TiO2–x/C composites) with metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) as precursors were prepared, and their photocatalytic activities were evaluated by the UV‐light driven photodegradation behaviors of methyl blue (MB). The as‐obtained samples were characterized by several techniques such as SEM, XRD, N2‐adsorption, XPS, UV/Vis spectrophotometry and UV/Vis diffuse‐reflectance spectra. The best photocatalytic performance was achieved in Ag/TiO2–x/C composite pyrolyzed at 1000 °C (ATC‐P10) due to rapid capture of electrons caused by silver doping, higher density of TiO2–x lattice oxygen vacancies for better trapping of electrons, and high surface area due to reduction and evaporation of metallic Zn. No obvious deactivation was observed after 10 cycles of UV‐light degradation of MB under the same experimental conditions. This report reveals a new approach to prepare stable and highly efficient UV‐light‐driven photocatalysts for organic pollutants in water.
Characterization of bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon L.) germplasm for nitrogen use efficiency
Authors: Schneider-Canny Raquel , Chekhovskiy Konstantin , Muñoz Patricio , Kwon Soonil , Saha Malay C.
Published: February 2019

Bermudagrass is the most important warm-season pasture in the Southern USA with exceptional forage production potential and abiotic stress tolerance. However, it requires high nitrogen (N) supply to reach its full biomass and quality potential. Our objectives were to: (1) develop a nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) screening protocol for bermudagrass in controlled or semi-controlled conditions, (2) identify contrasting genotypes for NUE from natural variants and, (3) develop a knowledge base of NUE in bermudagrass. A collection consisting 290 Cynodon sp. genotypes was first pre-screened in the greenhouse. Thirty-nine genotypes with high NUE, five with low NUE were selected for further evaluations along with 5 checks in greenhouse and hoop-house under four N rates. Biomass, crude protein and N content were evaluated. N uptake efficiency (NUpE), N utilization efficiency (NUtE) and NUE were calculated based on biomass production. Genotypes showed significant influences (P < 0.0001) in all of the response variables. The genotype × N rate interaction was not significant for NUE in both environments. NUE had strong correlation with biomass production and NUpE, which got stronger as N rates increased. In N limiting conditions, bermudagrass showed a trade-off between biomass maintenance and crude protein content. Lower N applications increased biomass production over crude protein. However, when N is abundant the crop has the ability to improve crude protein. Several genotypes presented high NUE due their high NUtE and NUpE. Genotypes with contrasting NUE were selected and subjected to further field evaluation. Superior genotypes for NUE will be used in the breeding program to enhance NUE in bermudagrass.
Biplanar Low-Dose Radiography is Accurate for Measuring Combined Anteversion after Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Esposito Christina I. , Miller Theodore T. , Lipman Joseph D. , Carroll Kaitlin M. , Padgett Douglas E. , Mayman David J. , Jerabek Seth A.
Published: February 2019

Background

Acetabular component position alone has not been predictive of stability after total hip arthroplasty (THA). Combined anteversion of the acetabulum and femur has the potential of being more predictive of stability. Unfortunately, femoral component position is difficult to measure on plain radiographs. Computed tomography (CT) is the gold standard for measuring implant position post-operatively, but CT exposes patients to a substantial amount of radiation.

Questions/Purposes

We sought to determine whether biplanar low-dose radiography can be used to accurately measure both acetabular and femoral implant position after THA.

Methods

Twenty patients underwent standing low-dose biplanar spine-to-ankle radiographs and supine CT scans 6 weeks after THA. Measurements of acetabular inclination, acetabular anteversion, and femoral anteversion were performed by two blinded observers and compared.

Results

The average absolute differences between biplanar radiographs and CT scans were 2° ± 2° for acetabular inclination, 3° ± 2° for acetabular anteversion, and 4° ± 4° for femoral anteversion between EOS measurements and CT measurements. Interobserver agreement was good for acetabular inclination, acetabular anteversion, and femoral anteversion (Cronbach's α = 0.90) using biplanar low-dose imaging.

Conclusion

Biplanar radiography is a reliable low-radiation alternative for measuring acetabular inclination, acetabular anteversion, femoral version, and thus combined anteversion compared to CT. Femoral anteversion had the most variability but is still clinically relevant.
Putting post-decision wagering to the test: a measure of self-perceived knowledge in basic sciences?
Authors: Versteeg Marjolein , Steendijk Paul
Published: February 2019

Introduction Students learn more effectively when they know what they do not know. Gaining insight into students’ metacognitive awareness is needed as misalignment between actual and self-perceived knowledge impedes their learning process. The optimal method of measuring self-perceived knowledge is still under debate. In this study, we evaluate the use of psychology-derived post-decision wagering for mapping students self-perceived knowledge.

Methods Students (n = 71) performed a pre-test on medical physiology, followed by a teacher-moderated discussion and a post-test with isomorph questions. Half of the students rated their self-perceived knowledge on each question using post-decision wagering, i. e. betting 1–5 points on the correctness of their answer, whereas the other half used a 5-point Likert scale to rate their confidence.

Results Self-perceived knowledge scores were higher for post-decision wagering (pre: 3.75 ± 0.14, post: 4.60 ± 0.07) compared with Likert scales (pre: 3.13 ± 0.08, post: 3.92 ± 0.08) despite similar actual knowledge scores. Furthermore, Likert ratings showed a near-normal distribution, whereas wagers were placed preferentially using the outer ends of the scale. Correlations between mean actual and self-perceived knowledge scores were low in both groups. On average, 8.5% of responses were classified as misconceptions, defined as highly confident incorrect answers.

Discussion Despite the presumed reliability of post-decision wagering, our findings suggest that we should adhere to the use of Likert scales as a balanced measure for self-perceived knowledge in medical education. Moreover, the prevalence of misconceptions did not alter after instruction, indicating a need for instructional
Can we meet our mission? Examining the professional development of social studies teachers to support students with disabilities and emergent bilingual learners
Authors: Mullins Ricky Dale , Williams Thomas , Hicks David , Mullins Sara Brooke
Published: February 2019

In this paper, we conduct a secondary analysis of The Institute of Educational Sciences’ (IES) 2011-2012 Schools and Staffing Survey (SASS) data, a self-reported, nationally representative database to examine: (a) the average caseload of students with disabilities and emergent bilingual learners within and across social studies content areas, as well how social studies teachers’ caseloads compare with other content area disciplines and (b) the extent and perceived utility of professional development opportunities social studies teachers receive to support both students with disabilities and emergent bilingual learners.
To Measure the Sky
Authors: Chromey Frederick R.
Published: February 2019

The second edition of this popular text provides undergraduates with a quantitative yet accessible introduction to the physical principles underlying the collection and analysis of observational data in contemporary optical and infrared astronomy. The text clearly links recent developments in ground- and space-based telescopes, observatory and instrument design, adaptive optics, and detector technologies to the more modest telescopes and detectors that students may use themselves. Beginning with reviews of the most relevant physical concepts and an introduction to elementary statistics, students are given the firm theoretical foundation they need. New topics, including an expanded treatment of spectroscopy, Gaia, the Large Synoptic Survey Telescope, and photometry at large redshifts bring the text up to date. Historical development of topics and quotations emphasize that astronomy is both a scientific and a human endeavour, while extensive end-of-chapter exercises facilitate the students' practical learning experience.
Research IT maturity models for academic health centers: Early development and initial evaluation
Authors: Knosp Boyd M. , Barnett William K. , Anderson Nicholas R. , Embi Peter J.
Published: February 2019

This paper proposes the creation and application of maturity models to guide institutional strategic investment in research informatics and information technology (research IT) and to provide the ability to measure readiness for clinical and research infrastructure as well as sustainability of expertise. Conducting effective and efficient research in health science increasingly relies upon robust research IT systems and capabilities. Academic health centers are increasing investments in health IT systems to address operational pressures, including rapidly growing data, technological advances, and increasing security and regulatory challenges associated with data access requirements. Current approaches for planning and investment in research IT infrastructure vary across institutions and lack comparable guidance for evaluating investments, resulting in inconsistent approaches to research IT implementation across peer academic health centers as well as uncertainty in linking research IT investments to institutional goals. Maturity models address these issues through coupling the assessment of current organizational state with readiness for deployment of potential research IT investment, which can inform leadership strategy. Pilot work in maturity model development has ranged from using them as a catalyst for engaging medical school IT leaders in planning at a single institution to developing initial maturity indices that have been applied and refined across peer medical schools.
What is the impact of physicians in prehospital treatment for patients in need of acute critical care? – An overview of reviews
Authors: Valentin Gitte , Jensen Lotte Groth
Published: February 2019

Objectives

The aim of this overview was to systematically identify and synthesize existing evidence from systematic reviews on the impact of prehospital physician involvement.

Methods

The Medline, Embase, and Cochrane library were searched from 1 January 2000 to 17 November 2017. We included systematic reviews comparing physician-based with non–physician-based prehospital treatment in patients with one of five critical conditions requiring a rapid response.

Results

Ten reviews published from 2009 to 2017 were included. Physician treatment was associated with increased survival in patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest and patients with severe trauma; in the latter group, the result was based on more limited evidence. The success rate of prehospital endotracheal intubation (ETI) has improved over the years, but ETI by physicians is still associated with higher success rates than intubation by paramedics. In patients with severe traumatic brain injury, intubation by paramedics who were not well skilled to do so markedly increased mortality.

Conclusions

Current evidence is hinting at a benefit of physicians in selected aspects of prehospital emergency services, including treatment of patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest and critically ill or injured patients in need of prehospital intubation. Evidence is, however, limited by confounding and bias, and comparison is hampered by differences in case mix and the organization of emergency medical services. Future research should strive to design studies that enable appropriate control of baseline confounding and obtain follow-up data for the proportion of patients who die in the prehospital setting.
Reversal strategies in patients treated with direct oral	anticoagulants
Authors: Gressenberger Paul
Published: February 2019

Summary. Administration of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) for the treatment of venous thrombotic events (VTE) or non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AF) is now standard of care and has demonstrated clinical efficacy and safety in numerous clinical studies. Usually these substances have lower overall mortality and less risk of cerebral hemorrhage, but depending on the substance and study, they are more likely to cause gastrointestinal bleeding than vitamin K antagonists (VKA), the medication that used to be standard for VTE and AF. Since DOACs have very short plasma elimination half-lives compared to VKA, for most bleeding events, expert opinions suggest that withdrawal of DOACs and supportive care will likely suffice to stop a bleeding episode. Because there is a bleeding risk associated with DOACs, reversal strategies may be needed if a patient receiving DOAC therapy bleeds during surgery or an invasive procedure. So far, idarucizumab has been the only available antidote that binds specifically to dabigatran and safely and quickly reverses its anticoagulant effects. Idarucizumab has no effects on anti Xa inhibitors or other anticoagulants. To date, treatment of serious, life-threatening bleeds in patients with anti-Xa-inhibitor has involved 4 factor prothrombin complex concentrates (PCC). PCC restores normal hemostasis laboratory values in most patients with major bleeding events after anti Xa inhibitor intake. Recently, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved andexanet alfa as the first specific antidote for the anti-Xa inhibitors apixaban and rivaroxaban. So far clinical experience with this substance and data comparing it with PCC are lacking. Currently ciraparantag is under investigation as a universal reversal agent for all DOACs and low molecular weight heparin as well. Because it is so broadly applicable, ciraparantag might be a good future option for the management of most bleeding complications under anticoagulant treatment. The aim of this review is to summarize recent study data and recommendations on nonspecific and specific DOAC reversal strategies and to present the current evidence.
Variation of Solar Wind Parameters Along With the Understanding of Energy Dynamics Within the Magnetospheric System During Geomagnetic Disturbances
Authors: Poudel Prashant , Simkhada Sunil , Adhikari Binod , Sharma Deepak , Nakarmi Jeevan Jyoti
Published: February 2019

Interplanetary solar wind parameters (velocity of solar wind particle [Vp], proton density [Nsw], and component of solar magnetic field [IMF‐Bz]) and geomagnetic indices (symmetric horizontal component of geomagnetic field [SYM‐H], auroral electrojet [AE]) divulge great deal of information about geomagnetic disturbances. To better understand the influence of solar wind invasion into the energy dynamics of magnetosphere system, we have chosen five geomagnetic disturbance events of completely different nature as the quietest days, intense storm, High Intensity Long Duration Continuous Auroral Activity, Substorm, and Supersubstorm. The statistical analysis of these five events clearly supports the case that most of the time IMF‐Bz plays major role to create magnetic reconnection leading to the geomagnetic disturbances. Our study shows that Joule heating covers the largest fraction of energy dissipation, averaging 53.6% of total deposited energy for all events. Even though, in case of Supersubstorm, the major contribution due to the ring current (47%) surpasses Joule heating (43%). The cross‐correlation analysis applied for the IMF‐Bz with SYM‐H, solar wind energy and magnetospheric sinks explain and quantify the relation between them. The positive correlation of IMF‐Bz with SYM‐H value in each event delineates that southward orientation of IMF‐Bz is responsible for the depression of SYM‐H. However, an interesting result that IMF‐Bz correlated negatively with SYM‐H value for the quiet event suggests the southward orientation of IMF‐Bz does not necessarily have to be the cause of disturbance always. In few occasion, Solar Quiet (Sq) and Lunar (L) current is found to be taking over the role of IMF‐Bz to create disturbance.
High‐Resolution Terrain Analysis for Lander Safety Landing and Rover Path Planning Based on Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter Narrow Angle Camera Images: A Case Study of China's Chang'e‐4 Probe
Authors: Li Bo , Yue Zongyu , Zhang Jiang , Fu Xiaohui , Ling Zongcheng , Chen Shengbo , Chen Jian , Yao Peiwen
Published: February 2019

China's Chang'e‐4 (CE‐4) probe will explore the South Pole‐Aitken basin in late 2018. Its preselected landing area is located on the southeastern floor of the Von Kármán crater. Landing experience of China's Chang'e‐3 probe may not be applied to CE‐4 mission directly because the topography of lunar farside is more rugged. Moreover, due to scale dependence and smooth effects, the previous topographic studies derived from digital elevation model data with lower resolution cannot represent the meter‐scale topographic features. Because of low time and space complexities in lunar images, image segmentation algorithm is especially suitable for recognizing lunar features. We divided the narrow angle camera (NAC) mosaic image into three parts: dark area, bright area, and flat area, based on a double‐threshold Otsu method. The first two parts corresponded to the undulating areas (positive and negative terrains). And then we calculated the flat area percentage (Fap) of the previous successful lunar landing missions (including Chang'e‐3, Apollo, Surveyor, and Luna series) and obtained the Fap threshold (>0.6) for lunar safe landing. According to Fap map (~1.5 m per pixel) of CE‐4 preselected landing area, the divided square grids with a size of 0.01° can be classified into safe grids (Fap > 0.6) and unsafe grids (Fap ≤ 0.6). The CE‐4 preselected landing areas can be greatly reduced to five potential landing areas. In the last, we proposed a route planning method, which took both the distance and security into account, for CE‐4 rover to dynamically generate a safe and short route between current grid and target grid.
Quantifying Flood Vulnerability Reduction via Private Precaution
Authors: Sairam Nivedita , Schröter Kai , Lüdtke Stefan , Merz Bruno , Kreibich Heidi
Published: February 2019

Private precaution is an important component in contemporary flood risk management and climate adaptation. However, quantitative knowledge about vulnerability reduction via private precautionary measures is scarce and their effects are hardly considered in loss modeling and risk assessments. However, this is a prerequisite to enable temporally dynamic flood damage and risk modeling, and thus the evaluation of risk management and adaptation strategies. To quantify the average reduction in vulnerability of residential buildings via private precaution empirical vulnerability data (n = 948) is used. Households with and without precautionary measures undertaken before the flood event are classified into treatment and nontreatment groups and matched. Postmatching regression is used to quantify the treatment effect. Additionally, we test state‐of‐the‐art flood loss models regarding their capability to capture this difference in vulnerability. The estimated average treatment effect of implementing private precaution is between 11 and 15 thousand EUR per household, confirming the significant effectiveness of private precautionary measures in reducing flood vulnerability. From all tested flood loss models, the expert Bayesian network‐based model BN‐FLEMOps and the rule‐based loss model FLEMOps perform best in capturing the difference in vulnerability due to private precaution. Thus, the use of such loss models is suggested for flood risk assessments to effectively support evaluations and decision making for adaptable flood risk management.
Hydroxylamine as a Potential Indicator of Nitrification in the Open Ocean
Authors: Korth Frederike , Kock Annette , Arévalo‐Martínez Damian L. , Bange Hermann W.
Published: February 2019

Hydroxylamine (NH2OH), a short‐lived intermediate in the nitrogen cycle, is a potential precursor of nitrous oxide (N2O) in the ocean. However, measurements of NH2OH in the ocean are sparse. Here we present a data set of depth profiles of NH2OH from the equatorial Atlantic Ocean and the eastern tropical South Pacific and compare it to N2O, nitrate, and nitrite profiles under varying oxygen conditions. The presence of NH2OH in surface waters points toward surface nitrification in the upper 100 m. Overall, we found a ratio of 1:3 between NH2OH and N2O in open ocean areas when oxygen concentrations were >50 μmol/L. In the equatorial Atlantic Ocean and the open ocean eastern tropical South Pacific, where nitrification is the dominant N2O production pathway, stepwise multiple regressions demonstrated that N2O, NH2OH, and nitrate concentrations were highly correlated, suggesting that NH2OH is a potential indicator for nitrification.
Pacific Ocean Variability Influences the Time of Emergence of a Seasonally Ice‐Free Arctic Ocean
Authors: Screen J. A. , Deser C.
Published: February 2019

The Arctic Ocean is projected to become seasonally ice‐free before midcentury unless greenhouse gas emissions are rapidly reduced, but exactly when this could occur depends considerably on internal climate variability. Here we show that trajectories to an ice‐free Arctic are modulated by concomitant shifts in the Interdecadal Pacific Oscillation (IPO). Trajectories starting in the negative IPO phase become ice‐free 7 years sooner than those starting in the positive IPO phase. Trajectories starting in the negative IPO phase subsequently transition toward the positive IPO phase, on average, with an associated strengthening of the Aleutian Low, increased poleward energy transport, and faster sea‐ice loss. The observed IPO began to transition away from its negative phase in the past few years. If this shift continues, our results suggest increased likelihood of accelerated sea‐ice loss over the coming decades, and an increased risk of an ice‐free Arctic within the next 20–30 years.
Wave Activity in Jupiter's North Equatorial Belt From Near‐Infrared Reflectivity Observations
Authors: Giles Rohini S. , Orton Glenn S. , Stephens Andrew W. , Wong Michael H. , Irwin Patrick G. J. , Sinclair James A. , Tabataba‐Vakili Fachreddin
Published: February 2019

High spatial resolution images of Jupiter at 1.58–2.28 μm are used to track and characterize a wave pattern observed in 2017 at a planetocentric latitude of 14°N. The wave pattern has a wave number of 18 and spans ∼5° in latitude. One bright crest remains stationary in System III longitude, while the remaining crests move slowly westward. The bright and dark regions of the near‐infrared wave pattern are caused by variations in the vertical location of the upper tropospheric haze layer. A comparison with thermal infrared observations shows a correlation with temperature anomalies in the upper troposphere. The results are consistent with a Rossby wave, generated by flow around a stationary vortex.
Inferring Source Properties of Monoenergetic Electron Precipitation From Kappa and Maxwellian Moment‐Voltage Relationships
Authors: Hatch Spencer M. , LaBelle James , Chaston Christopher C.
Published: February 2019

We present two case studies of FAST electrostatic analyzer measurements of both highly nonthermal (
 2.5) and weakly nonthermal/thermal monoenergetic electron precipitation at ∼4,000 km, from which we infer the properties of the magnetospheric source distributions via comparison of experimentally determined number density‐, current density‐, and energy flux‐voltage relationships with corresponding theoretical relationships. We also discuss the properties of the two new theoretical number density‐voltage relationships that we employ. Moment uncertainties, which are calculated analytically via application of the Gershman et al. (2015, https://doi.org/10.1002/2014JA020775) moment uncertainty framework, are used in Monte Carlo simulations to infer ranges of magnetospheric source population densities, temperatures, κ values, and altitudes. We identify the most likely ranges of source parameters by requiring that the range of κ values inferred from fitting experimental moment‐voltage relationships correspond to the range of κ values inferred from directly fitting observed electron distributions with two‐dimensional kappa distribution functions. Observations in the first case study, which are made over ∼78–79° invariant latitude in the Northern Hemisphere and 4.5–5.5 magnetic local time, are consistent with a magnetospheric source population density nm= 0.7–0.8 cm−3, source temperature Tm≈ 70 eV, source altitude h= 6.4–7.7 RE, and κ= 2.2–2.8. Observations in the second case study, which are made over 76–79° invariant latitude in the Southern Hemisphere and ∼21 magnetic local time, are consistent with a magnetospheric source population density nm= 0.07–0.09 cm−3, source temperature Tm≈ 95 eV, source altitude
 6 RE, and κ= 2–6.
Rupture of the Indian Slab in the 2011 Mw 6.9 Sikkim Himalaya Earthquake and Its Tectonic Implications
Authors: Sunilkumar T. C. , Earnest Anil , Silpa K. , Andrews Ronia
Published: February 2019

Unlike the other Himalayan plate boundary segments, the eastern Nepal to Bhutan Himalayan region is not known to have generated prominent shallow thrust faulting earthquakes, typical of the ongoing convergence. This region features strike‐slip earthquakes over the depth ranges of 40–120 km, indicating intraslab deformation. Here we present for the first time a slip distribution model for the largest recorded intraslab strike‐slip earthquake in this region, the Mw 6.9 Sikkim event that occurred on 18 September 2011. Relying on kinematic source process modeling, our results indicate a NE‐SW trending, steeply dipping sinistral source zone within the underthrusting Indian slab. The rupture propagated radially, with a low rupture velocity of 1.7 km/s, breaking a large asperity of 20 × 20 km2 with a maximum slip of 1.6 m. The rupture nucleated at a depth of 45 km and reached upper mantle depths. The computed coseismic stress drop value is 13.6 MPa. We suggest that most of the aftershocks occurred on the conjugate plane, possibly due to stress triggering. Stress inversion of focal mechanisms indicates a transpressive stress regime throughout the crust and pure strike‐slip regime in the upper mantle. We observed a unimodal distribution of earthquakes beneath the Higher Himalaya. This indicates a strong, brittle Indian slab and unravels a scenario of an eventual breakup of the lithosphere; the key trigger might be variation in the convergence rates along the Himalayan arc.
Bio‐optical Properties of Surface Waters in the Atlantic Water Inflow Region off Spitsbergen (Arctic Ocean)
Authors: Kowalczuk Piotr , Sagan Sławomir , Makarewicz Anna , Meler Justyna , Borzycka Karolina , Zabłocka Monika , Zdun Agnieszka , Konik Marta , Darecki Mirosław , Granskog Mats A. , Pavlov Alexey K.
Published: February 2019

Bio‐optical properties of surface waters were characterized off western and northern Spitsbergen in the summers of 2013, 2014, and 2015. We observed statistically significant year‐to‐year differences in spatial distribution of spectral absorption (a(λ)) and beam attenuation (c(λ)). Highest a(λ) and c(λ) were located in the frontal zone between water masses and co‐varied strongly with chlorophyll a fluorescence. Phytoplankton pigments dominated the absorption budget at 443 nm (50%). The contribution of chromophoric dissolved organic matter to total nonwater absorption was highest at 412 nm (42%), and detrital absorption contributed most at 550 nm (37%). Almost all inherent optical properties, except chromophoric dissolved organic matter, were highly correlated with the chlorophyll a concentration (Chla, R2 > 0.81). Relationships between Chla and the particulate and phytoplankton pigments absorption coefficients at 443 and 676 nm were characterized by significant determination coefficients (R2 > 0.73). The phytoplankton pigments line height absorption aLH(676) was found to be the most reliable optical proxy for determination of Chla, compared to total nonwater absorption, apg(676), and stimulated in situ chlorophyll a fluorescence intensity, IChla. In the presence of sea ice melt the water column was stratified and the vertical distribution of inherent optical properties was characterized by a surface minimum followed by a distinct subsurface maximum, aligned with a subsurface chlorophyll a maximum. We surmise that prevailing regional wind patterns affect sea ice and surface drift in central Fram Strait, and thus the location of sea ice meltwater, which affects the vertical stratification and occurrence of subsurface chlorophyll a maximum.
Downstream‐Propagating Channel Responses to Decadal‐Scale Climate Variability in a Glaciated River Basin
Authors: Anderson Scott W. , Konrad Chris P.
Published: February 2019

Regional climate is an important control on the rate of coarse sediment mobilization and transport in alpine river systems. Changes in climate are then expected to cause a cascade of geomorphic responses, including adjustments in downstream channel morphology. However, the mechanics and sensitivity of channel response to short‐term climate variability remain poorly documented. In the Nooksack River, which drains a glaciated stratovolcano in Washington State, bed elevation changes were inferred from shifting stage‐discharge relations at seven U.S Geological Survey stream gages. Decadal‐scale elevation trends can be explained as a downstream‐propagating channel response to regional climate variability, where periods of persistent warm, dry (cool and wet) conditions corresponded to periods of aggradation (incision). The channel elevation response propagated downstream at a rate of 1 to 4 km per year; propagation rate scaled closely with channel slope. Historical trends in glacier extent and flood intensity both show some potential to explain climate‐sediment linkages, though assessing causation is complicated by the shared climate signal in both records. Results show the influence of the Pacific Decadal Oscillation, with relatively high coarse sediment yields prior to 1950 and since 1980, and notably lower sediment yields from 1950 to 1980. Measured sediment yields from nearby glaciated basins corroborate this history, suggesting a regional consistency to these climate‐sediment linkages. These results document consistent relations between climate, sediment supply, and downstream channel response at the basin scale, with channel responses propagating downstream over periods of decades with little apparent attenuation.