bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Block Copolymers: Thermodynamics, Dynamics, and Small-Angle Scattering
Authors: Trask Lee M. , Hernandez Nacu , Cochran Eric W.
Published: August 2017

This article explores the dynamics, thermodynamics, and small-angle scattering of block copolymers. The goal is to determine what drives the applications of block copolymers, i.e. how block copolymers behave and how they are characterized. The article begins with a summary of the experimental data and various theories that comprise our understanding of block copolymer thermodynamics, with particular emphasis on phase behavior and especially the theory of microphase separation. It then considers topics related to block copolymer dynamics, including diffusion, viscoelasticity and rheology, shear-processing, and the kinetics of self-assembly. It also discusses small-angle scattering techniques as applied to block copolymer characterization, including scattering from ordered block copolymer melts.
Did true frogs ‘dispersify’?
Authors: Chan Kin Onn , Brown Rafe M.
Published: August 2017

The interplay between range expansion and concomitant diversification is of fundamental interest to evolutionary biologists, particularly when linked to intercontinental dispersal and/or large scale extinctions. The evolutionary history of true frogs has been characterized by circumglobal range expansion. As a lineage that survived the Eocene–Oligocene extinction event (EOEE), the group provides an ideal system to test the prediction that range expansion triggers increased net diversification. We constructed the most densely sampled, time-calibrated phylogeny to date in order to: (i) characterize tempo and patterns of diversification; (ii) assess the impact of the EOEE; and (iii) test the hypothesis that range expansion was followed by increased net diversification. We show that late Eocene colonization of novel biogeographic regions was not affected by the EOEE and surprisingly, global expansion was not followed by increased net diversification. On the contrary, the diversification rate declined or did not shift following geographical expansion. Thus, the diversification history of true frogs contradicts the prevailing expectation that amphibian net diversification accelerated towards the present or increased following range expansion. Rather, our results demonstrate that despite their dynamic biogeographic history, true frogs diversified at a relatively constantly rate, even as they colonized the major land masses of Earth.
Eversion and withdrawal of an intromittent organ before sexual maturation prepares male beetles for copulation
Authors: Matsumura Yoko , Kubo Takuya
Published: August 2017

Some species of criocerine beetles have a hyper-elongated part of the intromittent organ called a flagellum. In resting position, the flagellum is stored in a specialized internal sac in the intromittent organ. This specialized state of the flagellum and internal sac is indispensable during copulation for flagellar insertion into the female spermathecal duct for sperm transfer. However, the morphogenesis of the flagellum does not generate the active state of the flagellum; rather, the flagellum is generated in an inactive and completely coiled state. After eclosion, males ofLema coronataevert and withdraw the internal sac multiple times before sexual maturation, without mounting a female. This behaviour serves to uncoil the flagellum and guide it into the active state with the aid of surface structures on the internal sac. A closely related species,Lema dilecta, also has a long flagellum and undergoes the same behaviour to place the flagellum in the active position. However, some other species of criocerine beetles with much shorter flagella can attain the active state without exhibiting this behaviour. Based on a previously proposed phylogenetic tree, we discuss the evolutionary history of the hyper-elongation of the flagellum and associated behaviour.
The nature and distribution of affiliative behaviour during exposure to mild threat
Authors: Dezecache Guillaume , Grèzes Julie , Dahl Christoph D.
Published: August 2017

Individual reactions to danger in humans are often characterized as antisocial and self-preservative. Yet, more than 50 years of research have shown that humans often seek social partners and behave prosocially when confronted by danger. This research has relied onpost hocverbal reports, which fall short of capturing the more spontaneous reactions to danger and determine their social nature. Real-world responses to danger are difficult to observe, due to their evanescent nature. Here, we took advantage of a series of photographs freely accessible online and provided by a haunted house attraction, which enabled us to examine the more immediate reactions to mild threat. Regarding the nature and structure of affiliative behaviour and their motivational correlates, we were able to analyse the distribution of gripping, a behaviour that could either be linked to self- or other-oriented protection. We found that gripping, an affiliative behaviour, was common, suggestive of the social nature of human immediate reactions to danger. We also found that, while gripping behaviour is quite stable across group sizes, mutual gripping dropped dramatically as group size increases. The fact that mutual gripping disappears when the number of available partners increases suggests that gripping behaviour most probably reflects a self-preservative motivation. We also found age class differences, with younger individuals showing more gripping but receiving little reciprocation. Also, the most exposed individuals received little mutual gripping. Altogether, these results suggest that primary reactions to threat in humans are driven by affiliative tendencies serving self-preservative motives.
The effects of geometric uncertainties on computational modelling of knee biomechanics
Authors: Meng Qingen , Fisher John , Wilcox Ruth
Published: August 2017

The geometry of the articular components of the knee is an important factor in predicting joint mechanics in computational models. There are a number of uncertainties in the definition of the geometry of cartilage and meniscus, and evaluating the effects of these uncertainties is fundamental to understanding the level of reliability of the models. In this study, the sensitivity of knee mechanics to geometric uncertainties was investigated by comparing polynomial-based and image-based knee models and varying the size of meniscus. The results suggested that the geometric uncertainties in cartilage and meniscus resulting from the resolution of MRI and the accuracy of segmentation caused considerable effects on the predicted knee mechanics. Moreover, even if the mathematical geometric descriptors can be very close to the imaged-based articular surfaces, the detailed contact pressure distribution produced by the mathematical geometric descriptors was not the same as that of the image-based model. However, the trends predicted by the models based on mathematical geometric descriptors were similar to those of the imaged-based models.
Higher songs of city birds may not be an individual response to noise
Authors: Zollinger Sue Anne , Slater Peter J. B. , Nemeth Erwin , Brumm Henrik
Published: August 2017

It has been observed in many songbird species that populations in noisy urban areas sing with a higher minimum frequency than do matched populations in quieter, less developed areas. However, why and how this divergence occurs is not yet understood. We experimentally tested whether chronic noise exposure during vocal learning results in songs with higher minimum frequencies in great tits (
Parus major
), the first species for which a correlation between anthropogenic noise and song frequency was observed. We also tested vocal plasticity of adult great tits in response to changing background noise levels by measuring song frequency and amplitude as we changed noise conditions. We show that noise exposure during ontogeny did not result in songs with higher minimum frequencies. In addition, we found that adult birds did not make any frequency or song usage adjustments when their background noise conditions were changed after song crystallization. These results challenge the common view of vocal adjustments by city birds, as they suggest that either noise itself is not the causal force driving the divergence of song frequency between urban and forest populations, or that noise induces population-wide changes over a time scale of several generations rather than causing changes in individual behaviour.
Indole-3-Acetaldehyde Dehydrogenase-dependent Auxin Synthesis Contributes to Virulence ofPseudomonas syringaeStrain DC3000
Authors: McClerklin Sheri A. , Lee Soon Goo , Nwumeh Ron , Jez Joseph M. , Kunkel Barbara N.
Published: August 2017

The bacterial pathogenPseudomonas syringaemodulates plant hormone signaling to promote infection and disease development.P. syringaeuses several strategies to manipulate auxin physiology inArabidopsis thalianato promote pathogenesis, including synthesis of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), the predominant form of auxin in plants, and production of virulence factors that alter auxin responses in the host; however, the role of pathogen-derived auxin inP. syringaepathogenesis is not well understood. Here we demonstrate thatP. syringaestrain DC3000 produces IAA via a previously uncharacterized pathway and identify a novel indole-3-acetaldehyde dehydrogenase, AldA, that functions in IAA biosynthesis by catalyzing the NAD-dependent formation of IAA from indole-3-acetaldehyde (IAAld). Biochemical analysis and solving of the 1.9 Å resolution x-ray crystal structure reveal key features of AldA for IAA synthesis, including the molecular basis of substrate specificity. Disruption ofaldAand a close homolog,aldB, lead to reduced IAA production in culture and reduced virulence onA. thaliana.We use these mutants to explore the mechanism by which pathogen-derived auxin contributes to virulence and show that IAA produced by DC3000 suppresses salicylic acid-mediated defenses inA. thaliana.Thus, auxin is a DC3000 virulence factor that promotes pathogenicity by suppressing host defenses.

Author Summary

Pathogens have evolved multiple strategies for suppressing host defenses and modulating host physiology to promote colonization and disease development. For example, the plant pathogenPseudomonas syringaeuses several strategies to the manipulate hormone signaling of its hosts, including production of virulence factors that alter hormone responses in and synthesis of plant hormones or hormone mimics. Synthesis of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), a common form of the plant hormone auxin, by many plant pathogens has been implicated in virulence. However, the role of pathogen-derived IAA during pathogenesis by leaf spotting pathogens such asP. syringaestrain DC3000 is not well understood. Here, we demonstrate thatP. syringaestrain DC3000 uses a previously uncharacterized biochemical pathway to synthesize IAA, catalyzed by a novel aldehyde dehydrogenase, AldA, and carry out biochemical and structural studies of the AldA protein to investigate AldA activity and substrate specificity. We also generate analdAmutant disrupted in IAA synthesis to show that IAA is a DC3000 virulence factor that promotes pathogenesis by suppressing host defense responses.
Parasympathetic and Sympathetic Activity Are Associated with Individual Differences in Neural Indices of Selective Attention in Adults
Authors: Giuliano Ryan J. , Karns Christina M. , Bell Theodore A. , Petersen Seth , Skowron Elizabeth A. , Neville Helen J. , Pakulak Eric
Published: August 2017

Multiple theoretical frameworks posit that interactions between the autonomic nervous system and higher-order neural networks are crucial for cognitive regulation. However, few studies have directly examined the relationship between measures of autonomic physiology and brain activity during cognitive tasks, and fewer studies have examined both the parasympathetic and sympathetic autonomic branches when doing so. Here, 93 adults completed an event-related potential (ERP) auditory selective attention task concurrently with measures of parasympathetic activity (high-frequency heart rate variability; HF-HRV) and sympathetic activity (pre-ejection period; PEP). We replicate previous findings showing effects of selective attention on mean amplitude of the N1 ERP component (Hillyard et al., 1973; Coch et al., 2005), and extend this result to show that the effects of selective attention were associated with baseline values of HF-HRV and PEP. Individuals with higher resting HF-HRV and shorter resting PEP showed larger effects of selective attention on their ERPs. Follow-up regression models demonstrated that HF-HRV and PEP accounted for unique variance in selective attention effects on N1 mean amplitude. These results are consistent with the neurovisceral integration model, which posits that greater parasympathetic activity is a marker of increased cognitive capacity, as well as other theoretical models which emphasize the role of heightened sympathetic activity in more efficient attention-related processing. The present findings highlight the importance of autonomic physiology in the study of individual differences in neurocognitive function, and given the foundational role of selective attention across cognitive domains, suggest that both parasympathetic and sympathetic activity may be key to understanding variability in brain function across a variety of cognitive tasks.
Impaired brain glymphatic flow in a rodent model of chronic liver disease and minimal hepatic encephalopathy
Authors: Hadjihambi Anna , Harrison Ian F. , Arias Natalia , Gallego-Durán Rocío , Hosford Patrick S. , Davies Nathan , Habtesion Abeba , Lythgoe Mark F. , Gourine Alexander V. , Jalan Rajiv
Published: August 2017

Neuronal function is exquisitely sensitive to alterations in extracellular environment. In patients with hepatic encephalopathy (HE), accumulation of metabolic waste products and noxious substances in the interstitial fluid of the brain may contribute to neuronal dysfunction and cognitive impairment. In a rat model of chronic liver disease, we used an emerging dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI technique to assess the efficacy of the glymphatic system, which facilitates clearance of solutes from the brain. We identified discrete brain regions (olfactory bulb, prefrontal cortex and hippocampus) of altered glymphatic flow, which aligned with cognitive/behavioural deficits. Although the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms remain unclear, this study provides the first experimental evidence of impaired glymphatic clearance in HE.
Pan-embryo cell dynamics of germlayer formation in zebrafish
Authors: Shah Gopi , Thierbach Konstantin , Schmid Benjamin , Reade Anna , Roeder Ingo , Scherf Nico , Huisken Jan
Published: August 2017

Cell movements are coordinated across spatio-temporal scales to achieve precise positioning of organs during vertebrate gastrulation. In zebrafish, mechanisms governing such morphogenetic movements have so far only been studied within a local region or a single germlayer. Here, we present pan-embryo analyses of fate specification and dynamics of all three germlayers simultaneously within a gastrulating embryo, showing that cell movement characteristics are predominantly determined by its position within the embryo, independent of its germlayer identity. The spatially confined fate specification establishes a distinct distribution of cells in each germlayer during early gastrulation. The differences in the initial distribution are subsequently amplified by a unique global movement, which organizes the organ precursors along the embryonic body axis, giving rise to the blueprint of organ formation.
Advanced whole genome sequencing and analysis of fetal genomes from amniotic fluid
Authors: Mao Qing , Chin Robert , Xie Weiwei , Deng Yuqing , Xu Huixin , Zhang Rebecca Yu , Shi Quan , Peters Erin E. , Gulbahce Natali , Li Zhenyu , Chen Fang , Drmanac Radoje , Peters Brock A.
Published: August 2017

Amniocentesis is typically performed to identify large chromosomal abnormalities within the fetus. Here we demonstrate that it is feasible to generate an accurate whole genome sequence (WGS) of a fetus from an amniotic sample. DNA from cells and the amniotic fluid were isolated and sequenced from 31 amniocenteses. Concordance of variant calls between the two DNA sources and with parental libraries was high. Two fetal genomes were found to harbor potentially detrimental variants inCHD8andLRP1, variations in these genes have been associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Keratosis pilaris atrophicans, respectively. We also discovered drug sensitivities and carrier information of fetuses for a variety of diseases. In this study, we demonstrate for the first time the sequencing of the whole genome of fetuses from amniotic fluid and show that much more information than large chromosomal abnormalities can be gained from an amniocentesis.
Form factor of any polyhedron: a general compact formula and its singularities
Authors: Croset Bernard
Published: August 2017

A general and compact formula is established for the form factor of any polyhedron, which involves only the apex coordinates and the apex connections. For large diffusion vectorq, the form factor behaves likeq−3for generic directions, but it exhibitsq−2singularities in the directions perpendicular to the edges andq−1singularities in the directions normal to the faces. General results are established for these singularities. Using a Python implementation, illustrative examples are discussed. The generality of the formula and of its singularities are likely to be important for any discussion of scattering from polyhedral particles.
The EIGER detector for low-energy electron microscopy and photoemission electron microscopy
Authors: Tinti G. , Marchetto H. , Vaz C. A. F. , Kleibert A. , Andrä M. , Barten R. , Bergamaschi A. , Brückner M. , Cartier S. , Dinapoli R. , Franz T. , Fröjdh E. , Greiffenberg D. , Lopez-Cuenca C. , Mezza D. , Mozzanica A. , Nolting F. , Ramilli M. , Redford S. , Ruat M. , Ruder Ch. , Schädler L. , Schmidt Th. , Schmitt B. , Schütz F. , Shi X. , Thattil D. , Vetter S. , Zhang J.
Published: August 2017

EIGER is a single-photon-counting hybrid pixel detector developed at the Paul Scherrer Institut, Switzerland. It is designed for applications at synchrotron light sources with photon energies above 5 keV. Features of EIGER include a small pixel size (75 µm × 75 µm), a high frame rate (up to 23 kHz), a small dead-time between frames (down to 3 µs) and a dynamic range up to 32-bit. In this article, the use of EIGER as a detector for electrons in low-energy electron microscopy (LEEM) and photoemission electron microscopy (PEEM) is reported. It is demonstrated that, with only a minimal modification to the sensitive part of the detector, EIGER is able to detect electrons emitted or reflected by the sample and accelerated to 8–20 keV. The imaging capabilities are shown to be superior to the standard microchannel plate detector for these types of applications. This is due to the much higher signal-to-noise ratio, better homogeneity and improved dynamic range. In addition, the operation of the EIGER detector is not affected by radiation damage from electrons in the present energy range and guarantees more stable performance over time. To benchmark the detector capabilities, LEEM experiments are performed on selected surfaces and the magnetic and electronic properties of individual iron nanoparticles with sizes ranging from 8 to 22 nm are detected using the PEEM endstation at the Surface/Interface Microscopy (SIM) beamline of the Swiss Light Source.
A luminescent bis(pyridyl)-substituted benzimidazole platinum(II) complex exhibiting an intermolecular anagostic interaction
Authors: DeStefano Matthew R. , Geiger David K.
Published: August 2017

The photophysical properties of transition metal complexes of the 5,6-dimethyl-2-(pyridin-2-yl)-1-(pyridin-2-ylmethyl)-1H-benzimidazole ligand are of interest. Dichlorido[5,6-dimethyl-2-(pyridin-2-yl)-1-(pyridin-2-ylmethyl)-1H-benzimidazole-κ2
N
2,N
3]platinum(II), [PtCl2(C20H18N4)], is luminescent in the solid state at room temperature. The compound displays a distorted square-planar coordination geometry. The Pt—N(imidazole) bond length is shorter than the Pt—N(pyridine) bond length. The extended structure reveals that symmetry-related molecules display weak C—H...N, C—H...Cl, and C—H...Pt hydrogen-bonding interactions that are clearly discernable in the Hirshfeld surface and fingerprint plots. The intermolecular C—H...Pt and C—H...N interactions have been explored using density functional theory. The result of an analysis of the distance dependence of C—H...Pt yields a value consistent with that observed in the solid-state structure. The energy of interaction for the C—H...Pt interaction is found to be about −11 kJ mol−1.
A post-global financial crisis (GFC) framework for strategic planning, assessment and management decision making for US sustainable commercial real estate
Authors: Christensen Pernille Hoy
Published: August 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to understand both the facts and the values associated with the breadth of issues, and the principles related to sustainable real estate for institutional investors. Sustainable real estate is a growing sector within the commercial real estate industry, and yet, the decision-making practices of institutional investors related to sustainability are still not well understood. In an effort to fill that gap, this research investigates the post-global financial crisis (GFC) motivations driving the implementation of sustainability initiatives, the implementation strategies used, and the predominant eco-indicators and measures used by institutional investors.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper presents the results of a three-round modified Delphi study conducted in the USA in 2011-2012 investigating the nature of performance measurements and reporting requirements in sustainable commercial real estate and their impact on the real estate decision-making process used by institutional investors. Two rounds of in-depth interviews were conducted with 14 expert panelists. An e-questionnaire was used in the third round to verify qualitative findings.

Findings

The key industry drivers and performance indicators influencing institutional investor decision making were associated with risk management of assets and whether initiatives can improve competitive market advantage. Industry leaders advocate for simple key performance indicators, which is in contrast to the literature which argues for the need to adopt common criteria and metrics. Key barriers to the adoption of sustainability initiatives are discussed and a decision framework is presented.

Practical implications

This research aims to help industry partners understand the drivers motivating institutional investors to uptake sustainability initiatives with the aim of improving decision making, assessment, and management of sustainable commercial office buildings.

Originality/value

Building on the four generations of the sustainability framework presented by Simonset al.(2001), this research argues that the US real estate market has yet again adjusted its relationship with sustainability and revises their framework to include a new, post-GFC generation for decision making, assessment, and management of sustainable real estate.
Biopigment produced by Monascus purpureus MTCC 369 in submerged and solid state fermentation: a comparative study
Authors: Sehrawat Rachna , Panesar Parmjit S. , Panesar Reeba , Kumar Anit
Published: August 2017

Purpose

Biopigments, natural colors from microbiological origin are of great interest because of their potential advantages over synthetic colorants. Therefore, this paper aims to evaluate the best possible fermentative conditions for the maximum production of biopigment using solid state fermentation and submerged fermentation by Monascus purpureus MTCC 369.

Design/methodology/approach

The biopigment was produced using solid state fermentation and submerged with optimized substrate to achieve higher yield. The statistical analysis was carried out using a Microsoft Excel ® (Microsoft Corporation).

Findings

On comparative analysis, it was observed that solid state fermentation resulted significant accumulation of biopigment (9.0 CVU/g) on the 9th day in comparison to submerged fermentation (5.1 CVU/g) on the 15th day.

Practical implications

Results revealed that sweet potato peel powder and pea pods provides necessary nutrients required for mycelial growth, and biopigment production, therefore, can be used as potent substrate for biopigment production by Monascus purpureus MTCC 369. Extracted color can be used in confectionery, beverages and pharmaceutical industries.

Originality/value

This work focuses on utilisation of waste for production of pigment as alternative source to synthetic colorant, and few studies have been carried out using wastes, but no work has been carried out on sweet potato peel to the best of the authors’ knowledge.
Chinese cleft structures and the dynamics of processing
Authors: Liu Wei , Kempson Ruth
Published: August 2017

This paper addresses the challenge of Chinese cleft structures, involving a pairing of the particlesshiandde, which in different combinations display a variety of focus‐related effects and different potentials for ambiguity: clefts and pseudo‐clefts in particular differ only in order of the elements. We argue that retaining conventional assumptions necessarily involves positing unrelated structures and multiple ambiguities, leaving the systematicity of variation unexplained; and we go on to argue that it is only by turning to a dynamic framework in which syntax is defined as mechanisms for incremental build‐up of interpretation that an integrated characterisation of these effects is made possible. Adopting the Dynamic Syntax framework (Cann et al 2005), we argue thatshianddeinduce procedures for incremental build‐up of construal which feed and can be fed by other such procedures; and we show how the array of effects both in clefts and pseudo‐clefts can be shown to follow from the dynamics of building up interpretation reflecting online processing.
A multilayered psychosocial resilience framework and its implications for community‐focused crisis management
Authors: Dückers Michel L.A.
Published: August 2017

The focus of this contribution is on the psychosocial well‐being, health, and functioning of communities in the context of major crises. A multilayered psychosocial resilience framework is described, conceptualizing and connecting capacities at individual, community, and society levels. Effective crisis management is strengthening and utilizing these capacities. The community as a resilient, functioning social system depends, almost by definition, on collaboration among government, business, and civil society. Yet while resilience and crisis management form a logical combination, resilience for its part is depoliticized and naturalizing, whereas crisis management can be controversial and politically intense, which in practice means crisis management might negatively affect the development of more resilient communities.
Illegal Roaming and File Manipulation on Target Computers
Authors: Testa Alexander , Maimon David , Sobesto Bertrand , Cukier Michel
Published: August 2017

Research Summary

The results of previous research indicate that the presentation of deterring situational stimuli in an attacked computing environment shapes system trespassers’ avoiding online behaviors during the progression of a system trespassing event. Nevertheless, none of these studies comprised an investigation of whether the effect of deterring cues influence system trespassers’ activities on the system. Moreover, no prior research has been aimed at exploring whether the effect of deterring cues is consistent across different types of system trespassers. We examine whether the effect of situational deterring cues in an attacked computer system influenced the likelihood of system trespassers engaging in active online behaviors on an attacked system, and whether this effect varies based on different levels of administrative privileges taken by system trespassers. By using data from a randomized experiment, we find that a situational deterring cue reduced the probability of system trespassers with fewer privileges on the attacked computer system (nonadministrative users) to enter activity commands. In contrast, the presence of these cues in the attacked system did not affect the probability of system trespassers with the highest level of privileges (administrative users) to enter these commands.

Policy Implications

In developing policies to curtail malicious online behavior committed by system trespassers, a “one‐policy‐fits‐all” approach is often employed by information technology (IT) teams to protect their organizations. Our results suggest that although the use of a warning banner is effective in reducing the amount of harmful commands entered into a computer system by nonadministrative users, such a policy is ineffective in deterring trespassers who take over a network with administrative privileges. Accordingly, it is important to recognize that the effectiveness of deterring stimuli in cyberspace is largely dependent on the level of administrative privileges taken by the system trespasser when breaking into the system. These findings present the need for the development and implementation of flexible policies in deterring system trespassers.
Moving From Efficacy to Effectiveness
Authors: Saunders Jessica , Robbins Michael , Ober Allison J.
Published: August 2017

Research Summary

In 2012, the editors of CPP published an exchange about the Drug Market Intervention (DMI) in High Point, NC, concluding that it may be a promising approach to crime control but questioning whether it could be implemented across different settings. In this effectiveness study, we followed a cohort of seven sites that participated in a Bureau of Justice Assistance–sponsored DMI training to assess implementation and outcomes. Three sites were not able to implement, and implementation fidelity varied across the four sites that did implement. Of the four sites that held at least one call‐in, only one was successful at reducing overall and drug crime (by 28% and 56%, respectively). This works out to an implementation rate of 57% with an average overall crime reduction of 16% (treatment‐on‐the‐treated) or 4% (intent‐to‐treat). The results of this study demonstrate the importance of replication and the careful study of implementation fidelity prior to wide dissemination.

Policy Implications

When the findings of an evaluation reveal an effective crime reduction program, particularly when it garners significant public attention, it is not uncommon to rush to judgment that it should be widely implemented. DMI is a perfect illustration of this shortsighted approach to evidence‐based crime prevention—multiple trials across a variety of contexts are necessary to understand whether a program is ready for broad dissemination and scale‐up. The DMI program was challenging for sites to implement and resulted in significant reductions in crime in the site with the implementation fidelity that was highest and most similar to the original site. Our findings echo earlier concerns that the approach may be less effective across diverse settings and illustrate why effectiveness studies are vital in the development of evidence‐based policy.
Bringing multivariate support to multiscale codependence analysis: Assessing the drivers of community structure across spatial scales
Authors: Guénard Guillaume , Legendre Pierre
Published: August 2017

Multiscale codependence analysis (MCA) quantifies the joint spatial distribution of a pair of variables in order to provide a spatially explicit assessment of their relationships to one another. For the sake of simplicity, the original definition of MCA only considered a single response variable (e.g. a single species). However, that definition would limit the application of MCA when many response variables are studied jointly, for example when one wants to study the effect of the environment on the spatial organisation of a multi‐species community in an explicit manner.

In the present paper, we generalise MCA to multiple response variables. We conducted a simulation study to assess the statistical properties (i.e. type I error rate and statistical power) of multivariate MCA (mMCA) and found that it had honest type I error rate and sufficient statistical power for practical purposes, even with modest sample sizes. We also exemplified mMCA by applying it to two ecological datasets.

The simulation study confirmed the adequacy of mMCA from a statistical standpoint: it has honest type I error rates and sufficient power to be useful in practice. Using mMCA, we were able to detect variation in fish community structure along the Doubs River (in France), which was associated with large spatial structures in the variation of physical and chemical variables related to water quality. Also, mMCA usefully described the spatial variation of an Oribatid mite community structure associated with a gradient of water content superimposed on various smaller‐scale spatial features associated with vegetation cover in the peat blanket surrounding Lac Geai (in Québec, Canada).

In addition to demonstrating the soundness of mMCA in theory and practice, we further discuss the strengths and assumptions of mMCA and describe other potential scenarios where it would be helpful to biologists interested in assessing influence of environmental conditions on community structure in a spatially explicit way.
Emergency Department Provider Perspectives on Benzodiazepine–Opioid Coprescribing: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Kim Howard S. , McCarthy Danielle M. , Hoppe Jason A. , Mark Courtney D. , Lambert Bruce L.
Published: August 2017

Objective

Benzodiazepines and opioids are prescribed simultaneously (i.e., “coprescribed”) in many clinical settings, despite guidelines advising against this practice and mounting evidence that concomitant use of both medications increases overdose risk. This study sought to characterize the contexts in which benzodiazepine–opioid coprescribing occurs and providers’ reasons for coprescribing.

Methods

We conducted focus groups with emergency department (ED) providers (resident and attending physicians, advanced practice providers, and pharmacists) from three hospitals using semistructured interviews to elicit perspectives on benzodiazepine–opioid coprescribing. Discussions were audio‐recorded and transcribed. We performed qualitative content analysis of the resulting transcripts using a consensual qualitative research approach, aiming to identify priority categories that describe the phenomenon of benzodiazepine–opioid coprescribing.

Results

Participants acknowledged coprescribing rarely and reluctantly and often provided specific discharge instructions when coprescribing. The decision to coprescribe is multifactorial, often isolated to specific clinical and situational contexts (e.g., low back pain, failed solitary opioid therapy) and strongly influenced by a provider's beliefs about the efficacy of combination therapy. The decision to coprescribe is further influenced by a self‐imposed pressure to escalate care or avoid hospital admission. When considering potential interventions to reduce the incidence of coprescribing, participants opposed computerized alerts but were supportive of a pharmacist‐assisted intervention. Many providers found the process of participating in peer discussions on prescribing habits to be beneficial.

Conclusions

In this qualitative study of ED providers, we found that benzodiazepine–opioid coprescribing occurs in specific clinical and situational contexts, such as the treatment of low back pain or failed solitary opioid therapy. The decision to coprescribe is strongly influenced by a provider's beliefs and by self‐imposed pressure to escalate care or avoid admission.
Emergency Department use of Apneic Oxygenation Versus Usual Care During Rapid Sequence Intubation: A Randomized Controlled Trial (The ENDAO Trial)
Authors: Caputo Nicholas , Azan Ben , Domingues Rui , Donner Lee , Fenig Mark , Fields Douglas , Fraser Robert , Hosford Karlene , Iuorio Richard , Kanter Marc , McCarty Moira , Parry Thomas , Raja Andaleeb , Ryan Mary , Williams Blaine , Sharma Hemlata , Singer Daniel , Shields Chris , Scott Sandra , West Jason R. ,   The Lincoln Airway Group
Published: August 2017

Objectives

Desaturation leading to hypoxemia may occur during rapid sequence intubation (RSI). Apneic oxygenation (AO) was developed to prevent the occurrence of oxygen desaturation during the apnea period. The purpose of this study was to determine if the application of AO increases the average lowest oxygen saturation during RSI when compared to usual care (UC) in the emergency setting.

Methods

A randomized controlled trial was conducted at an academic, urban, Level I trauma center. All patients requiring intubation were included. Exclusion criteria were patients in cardiac or traumatic arrest or if preoxygenation was not performed. An observer, blinded to study outcomes and who was not involved in the procedure, recorded all times, while all saturations were recorded in real time by monitors on a secured server. Two‐hundred patients were allocated to receive AO (n = 100) or UC (n = 100) by predetermined randomization in a 1:1 ratio.

Results

A total of 206 patients were enrolled. There was no difference in lowest mean oxygen saturation between the two groups (92, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 91 to 93 in AO vs. 93, 95% CI = 92 to 94 in UC; p = 0.11).

Conclusion

There was no difference in lowest mean oxygen saturation between the two groups. The application of AO during RSI did not prevent desaturation of patients in this study population.
Hidradenitis suppurativa: A neglected disease in Indigenous Australians
Authors: Vekic Dunja Ana , Woods Jane , Cains Geoffrey D
Published: August 2017

We report the first case series of hidradenitis suppurativa in patients of Indigenous Australian heritage. The incidence and ethnicity of populations affected by this condition are not known. The high comorbid disease burden and socioeconomic disadvantage that is well recognised in the Indigenous Australian population poses significant challenges to therapeutic outcomes.
Evolution of the IgE and IgG repertoire to a comprehensive array of allergen molecules in the first decade of life
Authors: Huang X. , Tsilochristou O. , Perna S. , Hofmaier S. , Cappella A. , Bauer C.‐P. , Hoffman U. , Forster J. , Zepp F. , Schuster A. , D'Amelio R. , Wahn U. , Keil T. , Lau S. , Matricardi P. M.
Published: August 2017

Background

In early childhood, the allergen‐specific IgG repertoire is mainly directed to animal and vegetable food molecules and infrequently to airborne molecules. It is unknown whether this early pattern is maintained throughout childhood.

Objective

To investigate the evolution of IgG and IgE responses to a broad panel of allergenic molecules from birth to age 10 years.

Methods

We examined the sera collected between birth and age 10 years from participants in the German Multicentre Allergy Study, a birth cohort born in 1990. The IgE (cutoff ≥0.30 ISU) and IgG (cutoff ≥0.10 ISU) responses to 35 genuine allergenic molecules were measured with a multiplex microarray approach (ImmunoCAP ISAC™).

Results

IgE responses were mostly directed against a restricted group of airborne molecules, with a sequence and prevalence hierarchy (Phl p 1> Bet v 1> Fel d 1> Phl p 5> Der p 2> Der p 1) largely maintained over time. Conversely, the IgG repertoire was much broader, starting with animal foodborne, then spreading to vegetable foodborne and finally to airborne molecules. A strong and persistent IgG response to a given airborne molecule almost invariably preceded or accompanied an IgE response to that molecule.

Conclusions

The evolution of IgG and IgE responses throughout childhood differs widely at population level. IgG responses are mostly directed to animal food allergens, while IgE responses are dominated by airborne allergens. However, a strong IgG response almost invariably precedes or accompanies the appearance of IgE to the same molecule in specifically sensitized subjects.
Is early recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma in HCV cirrhotic patients affected by treatment with direct‐acting antivirals? A prospective multicentre study
Authors: Cabibbo G. , Petta S. , Calvaruso V. , Cacciola I. , Cannavò M. R. , Madonia S. , Distefano M. , Larocca L. , Prestileo T. , Tinè F. , Bertino G. , Giannitrapani L. , Benanti F. , Licata A. , Scalisi I. , Mazzola G. , Cartabellotta F. , Alessi N. , Barbàra M. , Russello M. , Scifo G. , Squadrito G. , Raimondo G. , Craxì A. , Di Marco V. , Cammà C. ,   Rete Sicilia Selezione Terapia – HCV (RESIST‐HCV)
Published: August 2017

Background

Data on HCV‐related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) early recurrence in patients whose HCC was previously cured, and subsequently treated by direct‐acting antivirals (DAAs), are equivocal.

Aim

To assess the risk of HCC early recurrence after DAAs exposure in a large prospective cohort of HCV‐cirrhotic patients with previous successfully treated HCC, also looking for risk factors for cancer early recurrence.

Methods

We enrolled 143 consecutive patients with complete response after curative treatment of HCC, subsequently treated with DAAs and monitored by the web‐based RESIST‐HCV database. Clinical, biological, and virological data were collected. The primary endpoint was the probability of HCC early recurrence from DAA starting by Kaplan‐Meier method.

Results

Eighty‐six per cent of patients were in Child‐Pugh class A and 76% of patients were BCLC A. Almost all patients (96%) achieved sustained virological response. Twenty‐four HCC recurrences were observed, with nodular or infiltrative pattern in 83% and 17% of patients, respectively. The 6‐, 12‐ and 18‐month HCC recurrence rates were 12%, 26.6% and 29.1%, respectively. Main tumour size and history of prior HCC recurrence were independent risk factors for HCC recurrence by Cox multivariate model.

Conclusions

Probability of HCC early recurrence in patients who had HCC previously cured remains high, despite HCV eradication by DAAs. Risk was comparable but not higher to that reported in literature in DAA‐untreated patients. Previous HCC recurrence and tumour size can be used to stratify the risk of HCC early recurrence. Further studies are needed to assess impact of DAAs on late recurrence and mortality.
The Role of Auditing in Corporate Governance in Australia and New Zealand: A Research Synthesis
Authors: Hay David , Stewart Jenny , Botica Redmayne Nives
Published: August 2017

Corporate governance is of growing importance in Australia, New Zealand and all over the world. Corporate governance interacts with auditing and it is useful to understand how corporate governance and auditing affect companies. A related issue is whether better governance is a substitute for auditing or a complement. Previous studies of that issue have had mixed results. This review article provides a synthesis of Australian and New Zealand research about corporate governance and auditing that assesses what has been found and examines issues that can be explored using multiple studies. We conclude that despite extensive research, there is still considerable uncertainty about how corporate governance mechanisms are related to auditing and how auditing is associated with corporate governance. We conclude that recommendations for better governance (beyond a minimum level) are not yet supported by evidence. The results are intended to be helpful in providing advice about policy in Australia and New Zealand, and in determining directions for new research.
Value for Money and Risk Relationships in Public–Private Partnerships: Evaluating Program‐based Evidence
Authors: Opara Michael
Published: August 2017

Value for money – VfM (the provision of improved public infrastructure and services at lower cost) – is a central rationale for the deployment of public–private partnerships (P3s). However, it remains unclear how VfM is actually created in P3s. There are several issues that surround the ex ante evaluation conducted during P3 assessment, including: transparency of the process, engagement of stakeholders, potential restrictions on current and future public sector flexibility, and political influences that call into question the legitimacy of the process. This study examines these issues using Alberta's P3 projects executed since 2003, and interviews 35 key participants and stakeholders. The findings suggest that while the transfer of risk from the public to the private sector is a key driver of VfM, it may overstate the extent to which planning related risks can be transferred. This paper recommends enhanced VfM component disclosures and transparency as the evaluation process evolves. Furthermore, a more rigorous approach to risk conceptualisation and valuation should be adopted. Risk allocation should be about managing not only occurrence, but also impact of the risk factor. Finally, political interference must be moderated to allow for the optimal realisation of the best possible choices presented by P3 deployments.
Area under the curve during OGTT in first‐degree relatives of diabetic patients as an efficient indicator of future risk of type 2 diabetes and prediabetes
Authors: Feizi Awat , Meamar Rokhsareh , Eslamian Mohammad , Amini Masoud , Nasri Maryam , Iraj Bijan
Published: August 2017

Objective

To establish whether the area under the curve of an OGTT has a predictive role in identifying prediabetic and diabetic subjects among first‐degree relatives (FDR) of patients with diabetes mellitus type 2 (DM).

Design, patients and measurements

In a population‐based cohort study, 766 FDR of diabetic patients with a normal glucose tolerance test (NGT) completed a 2‐hour OGTT. They were followed up for 7 years and classified according to the American Diabetes Association criteria into: NGT, impaired fasting glucose (IFG), impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) and DM. Relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) were calculated based on logistic regression. Receiver operator characteristic (ROC) analysis along with AUC at different intervals and at time points during the OGTT was used to evaluate the risk of prediabetes and diabetes.

Results

Twenty‐three subjects (3%) developed type 2 DM, 118 (29.3%) IFG, 81 (11.5%) IGT and 544 (71%) subjects remained NGT. AUC and mean difference of glucose in all high‐risk groups demonstrated significant differences in both intervals and time points when compared to the NGT group. The cut‐off values during OGTT to predict prediabetes and diabetes was determined as blood glucose more than 7.2 and 7.8 mmol/L at 30 and 60 minutes, respectively. The time point 60 has the highest predictive role for the development of diabetes, alone, and improved the performance of a prediction model containing multiple important clinical risk factors.

Conclusion

The data suggest that the glycaemic response to an OGTT may predict the risk of development of diabetes in first‐degree relatives of DM patients.