bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Writing self‐efficacy in nursing students: The influence of a discipline‐specific writing environment
Authors: Mitchell Kim M. , Harrigan Tom , McMillan Diana E.
Published: July 2017

Aim

To explore if writing self‐efficacy improved among first‐year nursing students in the context of discipline‐specific writing. The relationship between writing self‐efficacy, anxiety and student grades are also explored with respect to various learner characteristics such as postsecondary experience, writing history, English as a second language status and online versus classroom instruction.

Design

A one group quasi‐experimental study with a time control period.

Method

Data was collected over the 2013–2014 academic year at orientation, start of writing course and end of writing course.

Results

Writing self‐efficacyimproved from pre‐ to post writing course but remained stable during the time control period. Anxiety was negatively related towriting self‐efficacybut remained stable across the study period. Inexperienced students and students with less writing experience, appeared to over‐inflate their self‐assessedwriting self‐efficacyearly in the programme. This study gives promising evidence that online and classroom delivery of instruction are both feasible for introducing discipline specific writing.
Surface modification of boron nitride via poly (dopamine) coating and preparation of acrylonitrile‐butadiene‐styrene copolymer/boron nitride composites with enhanced thermal conductivity
Authors: Li Guohua , Xing Rongfen , Geng Peipei , Liu Zhenxin , He Lianqi , Wang Nongyue , Zhang Qingxin , Qu Xiongwei
Published: July 2017

A biology‐inspired approach was utilized to functionalize hexagonal boron nitride (h‐BN), to enhance the interfacial interactions in acrylonitrile‐butadiene‐styrene copolymer/boron nitride (ABS/BN) composites. The poly (dopamine), poly (DOPA) layer, was formed on the surface of BN platelets via spontaneously oxidative self‐polymerization of DOPA in aqueous solution. The modified BN (named as mBN) coated with poly (DOPA) was mixed with ABS resin by melting. The strong interfacial interactions via π‐π stacking plus Van der Waals, both derived from by poly (DOPA), significantly promoted not only the homogeneous dispersion of h‐BN in the matrix, but also the effective interfacial stress transfer, leading to improve the impact strength of ABS/mBN even at slight mBN loadings. A high thermal conductivity of 0.501 W/(m·K) was obtained at 20 wt% mBN content, reaching 2.63 times of the value for pure ABS (0.176 W/(m·K)). Meanwhile, the ABS/mBN composites also exhibited an excellent electrical insulation property, which can be expected to be applied in the fields of thermal management and electrical enclosure.
Antimicrobial modified hydroxyapatite composite dental bite by stereolithography
Authors: Makvandi Pooyan , Esposito Corcione Carola , Paladini Federica , Gallo Anna Lucia , Montagna Francesco , Jamaledin Rezvan , Pollini Mauro , Maffezzoli Alfonso
Published: July 2017

This study is aimed at the synthesis of antimicrobial hydroxyapatite (HAP)‐based composites for dental application by stereolithography (SLA). A micron‐sized commercial HAP was modified by methacrylate and quaternary ammonium salt, and, then, it was used in different amounts (namely 2.5, 5, and 10 wt%) as filler for a photocurable custom made resin for SLA. Thermal stability, microstructure, and particles size of the pristine (HAP) and modified HAP (mHAP) were evaluated by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and particle size analyser (CILAS). The suitability of each formulation for stereolithography process was assessed by measuring viscosity, degree of conversion (DC%) by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), glass transition temperature, and thermal stability. Photo‐cured specimens for physical, mechanical, and antimicrobial testing were built by SLA. The flexural strength of the samples was measured using a 3‐point bending test method, and the fractured surface was analysed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The antimicrobial activity of samples was investigated against some standard microorganisms (Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans), as representative Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria and fungus, respectively. The flexural strength increased with a filler content up to 5% and slightly decreased for higher content. SEM analysis confirmed the presence of uniformly distributed HAP. The incorporation of mHAP reduced the bacterial and fungal growth in dose‐dependent manner in comparison with the neat samples. Finally, a prototype of dental bite was built by SLA.
Can quantity of amniotic fluid reliably predict postnatal renal function in boys with posterior urethral valves: a decision curve analysis
Authors: Harper Luke , Waubant Alice , Vignes Julien , Amat Sara , Dobremez Eric , Lefevre Yan , Ferdynus Cyril
Published: July 2017

Objective

Prenatal management of male fetuses with suspected posterior urethral valves depends on reliable markers for postnatal long‐term renal function. Whether ultrasound parameters, including the presence or absence of oligohydramnios, are reliable remains the subject of debate. We decided to evaluate the reliability of quantity of amniotic fluid to predict postnatal renal function using decision curve analysis (DCA), a method for evaluating the clinical utility of a diagnostic test.

Methods

We analyzed retrospectively 51 male fetuses born with prenatally suspected posterior urethral valves between 2009 and 2012. We studied the relationship between quantity of amniotic fluid on prenatal ultrasound and the nadir creatinine during the first year of life as a proxy of postnatal renal function using DCA.

Results

Twelve fetuses presented with prenatal oligohydramnios. Thirty‐one children had a normal nadir creatinine, of which one had prenatal oligohydramnios (3.2%). Thirteen had a nadir creatinine between 35 and 75 μmol/L, of which four had prenatal oligohydramnios (30.8%). Seven had a nadir creatinine >75 μmol/L, all of them had prenatal oligohydramnios.

Conclusion

In this retrospective study, DCA confirms the relationship between prenatal quantity of amniotic fluid volume and postnatal renal function. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Outcome of prenatally diagnosed congenital lung anomalies in the North of England: a review of 228 cases to aid in prenatal counselling
Authors: Walker Lesley , Cohen Kelly , Rankin Judith , Crabbe David
Published: July 2017

Objective

To describe data on congenital lung anomalies identified on prenatal ultrasound from two centres in the North of England.

Method

This retrospective case series includes all cases notified to the Northern Congenital Abnormality Survey from 1990 to 2010 and to Leeds Regional Fetal Medicine Unit 2000–2015.

Results

There were a total of 228 cases, 101 from Northern Congenital Abnormality Survey and 127 from Leeds Regional Fetal Medicine Unit. Eight‐five per cent were unilateral congenital pulmonary airway malformations (CPAMs), 2% bilateral CPAMs and 11% bronchopulmonary sequestrations. Mediastinal shift was present in 50% of cases, occurring more frequently in macrocystic CPAMs and larger lesions. Polyhydramnios was evident in 28%, and fetal hydrops occurred in 9%. Prenatal regression occurred in 54%, and lesions were no longer visible on ultrasound in 27% at a later gestation. Prenatal intervention was performed in 5% of cases, and postnatal surgical intervention was required in 12% due to ongoing respiratory symptoms. Regression of fetal hydrops occurred in five cases.

Conclusion

The outcome was favourable in 83% cases. Prenatal regression was common, and macrocystic lesions were less likely to regress than microcystic lesions. No specific prenatal features predicted the need for early surgical intervention. The data analysed in this prenatal series will help when counselling prenatal cases. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Adherence with direct oral anticoagulants in nonvalvular atrial fibrillation new users and associated factors: a French nationwide cohort study
Authors: Maura Géric , Pariente Antoine , Alla François , Billionnet Cécile
Published: July 2017

Purpose

Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) have been promoted in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (nv‐AF) as a more convenient alternative to vitamin K antagonists. We estimated 1‐year dabigatran and rivaroxaban adherence rates in nv‐AF patients and assessed associations between baseline patient characteristics and nonadherence.

Methods

This cohort study included OAC‐naive nv‐AF patients with no contraindications to OAC, who initiated dabigatran and rivaroxaban, using nationwide data from French national health care databases. One‐year adherence was defined by the proportion of days covered of 80% or more over a fixed 1‐year period after treatment initiation. Associations between nonadherence and baseline patient characteristics were assessed using multivariate logistic regression models.

Results

The population was composed of 11 141 dabigatran (women: 48%; mean age: 74 ± 10.7 y; ≥80 y: 34.9%) and 11 126 rivaroxaban (46.5%; 74 ± 10.9 y; 34.8%) new users. One‐year adherence was 53.3% in dabigatran‐treated and 59.9% in rivaroxaban‐treated patients, consistent with numerous subgroup analyses. A switch to vitamin K antagonist was observed in 14.5% of dabigatran and 11.7% of rivaroxaban patients; 10.2% and 5.9% of patients switched to another DOAC, respectively; and 4.3% of patients died in the 2 cohorts. In patients who did not die or switch during the follow‐up, 1‐year adherence was 69.6% in dabigatran‐treated and 72.3% in rivaroxaban‐treated patients. Having concomitant ischemic heart diseases was associated with an increased risk of nonadherence in the 2 cohorts.

Conclusion

In this real‐life study, 1‐year adherence to DOAC is poor in nv‐AF new users. Despite the introduction of DOAC, adherence to OACs may remain a significant challenge in AF patients.
Population‐based incidence of diabetic ketoacidosis in type 2 diabetes: medical claims data analysis in Japan
Authors: Takeuchi Masato , Kawamura Taichi , Sato Izumi , Kawakami Koji
Published: July 2017

Purpose

Determination of the incidence rate of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is urgent, in response to the safety issue with use of the glucose lowering drugs, sodium‐glucose cotransporter‐2 inhibitors, and DKA.

Methods

We extracted data of adult patients with T2DM from a medical claims database in Japan, which included 1 million individuals. The study period was 2005–2013, before the era of sodium‐glucose cotransporter‐2 inhibitors. The inclusion criteria were patients with a diagnosis of T2DM who had at least 1 prescription for a glucose‐lowering drug. We further examined the number of DKA‐related admissions and medication use prior to admission. Calculation of DKA incidence was on a patient‐years basis, with 95% confidence interval using a Poisson distribution.

Results

Of 36,674 adult patients with T2DM, we identified 74 cases admitted for DKA, with an estimated DKA incidence of 0.48/1000 (95% confidence interval, 0.38–0.60/1000) patient‐years. Of these 74 cases, approximately two‐thirds of patients had no past or recent history of glucose‐lowering drug use before admission for DKA.

Conclusions

This study estimated that the incidence of DKA was 0.48/1000 patient‐years in Japan, similar to previous studies. We also found that underuse of glucose‐lowering medication was common among patients hospitalized for DKA.

KEY POINTS

The population‐based incidence of DKA in T2DM is largely unknown.

In Japan, the estimated DKA incidence was 0.48/1000 (95% CI, 0.38–0.60/1000) patient‐years.

Drug‐induced DKA is an emerging research area, and our results can be applied to evaluating the risk of DKA.
Perceived employer‐related barriers and facilitators for work participation of cancer survivors: A systematic review of employers' and survivors' perspectives
Authors: Greidanus M.A. , de Boer A.G.E.M. , de Rijk A.E. , Tiedtke C.M. , Dierckx de Casterlé B. , Frings‐Dresen M.H.W. , Tamminga S.J.
Published: July 2017

Objective

To identify employer‐related barriers and facilitators for work participation of cancer survivors from the perspective of both employers and cancer survivors, and to synthesise these perceived barriers and facilitators to understand their perceived consequences.

Methods

A systematic review of qualitative studies focusing on employers' and cancer survivors' perspectives on the work participation of cancer survivors was performed. Four databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, and Business Source Premier) were systematically searched, and the quality of studies included was assessed using the CASP checklist. Perceived barriers and facilitators were extracted and synthesised to conduct a content analysis.

Results

Five studies representing the employers' perspectives and 47 studies representing the cancer survivors' perspectives were included. Employers perceived barriers and facilitators related to support, communication, RTW policies, knowledge about cancer, balancing interests and roles, and attitude. Survivors perceived barriers and facilitators related to support, communication, work environment, discrimination, and perception of work ability. The synthesis found that the employers' willingness to support can be understood by perceptions they have of the survivor, goals of the employer, and national or organisational policies. Employers require knowledge about cancer and RTW policies to be able to support survivors.

Conclusions

This review identified a plurality of and a large variety in perceived employer‐related barriers and facilitators for work participation of cancer survivors, which can be understood to be related to both employers' willingness and ability to support. There is a need for interventions targeting employers, with the aim of enhancing the sustainable work participation of cancer survivors.
Influence of Prostanoids in the Diuretic and Natriuretic Effects of Extracts and Kaempferitrin from Bauhinia forficata Link Leaves in Rats
Authors: de Souza Priscila , da Silva Luisa Mota , Boeing Thaise , Somensi Lincon Bordignon , Cechinel‐Zanchett Camile Cecconi , Campos Adriana , Krueger Clarissa de Medeiros Amorim , Bastos Jairo Kenupp , Cechinel‐Filho Valdir , Andrade Sérgio Faloni de
Published: July 2017

Although Bauhinia forficata Link is popularly used in Brazil to induce diuresis, no scientific investigation has focused on demonstrating its efficacy in preclinical trials. For that, normotensive male Wistar and spontaneously hypertensive rats were used to test the effect of extracts and kaempferitrin obtained from Bauhinia forficata leaves in the experimental model of diuresis. Cumulative urine volume, Na+ and K+ excretion, calcium, creatinine, prostaglandin E2, pH, density, and conductivity were measured at the end of the experiment (after 8 or 24 h). The treatment with aqueous infusion, methanolic extract, trichloromethane, or ethyl acetate–butanolic fractions significantly increase urinary volume and electrolytes levels when orally given to rats, without altering the pH or density parameters. Kaempferitrin induced diuretic, natriuretic, but not kaliuretic effects in both normotensive and hypertensive rats. In addition, kaempferitrin enhanced urinary creatinine and prostaglandin E2 excretion, without modifying calcium levels. Kaempferitrin‐induced diuresis was unaffected by previous treatment with a nonselective inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase and neither with a nonselective muscarinic receptor antagonist. On the other hand, a cyclooxygenase inhibitor was able to decrease its effect when compared with vehicle‐treated rats, suggesting that the diuretic and natriuretic properties from kaempferitrin are associated with endogenous prostanoids generation. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Safety, Efficacy, and Mechanistic Studies Regarding Citrus aurantium (Bitter Orange) Extract and p‐Synephrine
Authors: Stohs Sidney J.
Published: July 2017

Citrus aurantium L. (bitter orange) extracts that contain p‐synephrine as the primary protoalkaloid are widely used for weight loss/weight management, sports performance, appetite control, energy, and mental focus and cognition. Questions have been raised about the safety of p‐synephrine because it has some structural similarity to ephedrine. This review focuses on current human, animal, in vitro, and mechanistic studies that address the safety, efficacy, and mechanisms of action of bitter orange extracts and p‐synephrine. Numerous studies have been conducted with respect to p‐synephrine and bitter orange extract because ephedra and ephedrine were banned from use in dietary supplements in 2004. Approximately 30 human studies indicate that p‐synephrine and bitter orange extracts do not result in cardiovascular effects and do not act as stimulants at commonly used doses. Mechanistic studies suggest that p‐synephrine exerts its effects through multiple actions, which are discussed. Because p‐synephrine exhibits greater adrenergic receptor binding in rodents than humans, data from animals cannot be directly extrapolated to humans. This review, as well as several other assessments published in recent years, has concluded that bitter orange extract and p‐synephrine are safe for use in dietary supplements and foods at the commonly used doses. Copyright © 2017 The Authors Phytotherapy Research Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
On the representation error in data assimilation
Authors: Janjić T. , Bormann N. , Bocquet M. , Carton J. A , Cohn S. E. , Dance S. L. , Losa S. N. , Nichols N. K. , Potthast R. , Waller J. A. , Weston P.
Published: July 2017

Representation, representativity, representativeness error, forward interpolation error, forward model error, observation‐operator error, aggregation error and sampling error are all terms used to refer to components of observation error in the context of data assimilation. This article is an attempt to consolidate the terminology that has been used in the earth sciences literature and was suggested at a European Space Agency workshop held in Reading in April 2014. We review the state of the art and, through examples, motivate the terminology. In addition to a theoretical framework, examples from application areas of satellite data assimilation, ocean reanalysis and atmospheric chemistry data assimilation are provided. Diagnosing representation‐error statistics as well as their use in state‐of‐the‐art data assimilation systems is discussed within a consistent framework.
Negative ions, molecular electron affinity and orbital structure of cata‐condensed polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons
Authors: Khatymov Rustem V. , Muftakhov Mars V. , Shchukin Pavel V.
Published: July 2017

Rationale

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are molecules of ecological, astrochemical significance that find practical applications in organic electronics, photonics and the chemical synthesis of novel materials. The utility of these molecules often implies the occurrence of their ionized forms. Studies in the gas phase of elementary processes of energy‐controlled interaction of molecules with low‐energy electrons shed light on the mechanisms of transient negative ion formation and evolution.

Methods

Experiments with the individual compounds representing homologous and/or isomeric series of cata‐condensed polyaromatic hydrocarbons were carried out by means of negative ion mass spectrometry in the resonant electron capture mode. Literature data obtained by complementary techniques and theoretical quantum chemical methods (ab initio and density functional theory (DFT)) were invoked to treat the experimental observations.

Results

Most polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) molecules form long‐lived molecular negative ions when exposed to free electrons of thermal or epi‐thermal energy, and no fragmentation is observed up to ca 5 eV. The lifetimes of such ions with respect to the spontaneous loss of extra‐electron vary from tens of microseconds for angular and branched PAH molecules to milliseconds for linear ones, and correlate with the adiabatic electron affinity (EA) of molecules. Detailed analysis of the electronic (orbital) structure of the molecules made it possible to rationalize the relatively low EAs of angular and branched PAH compared with those of linear ones.

Conclusions

The obtained results contribute to the field of electron‐molecule interactions and may be of importance for the better comprehension of the functioning of organic electronics, for the synthesis of relevant novel materials, and the development of efficient analytical methods capable of discriminating structural isomers.
The influence of coarse particle mobility on scour depth in salmonid spawning habitat
Authors: Dusterhoff S.R. , Sloat M.R. , Ligon F.K.
Published: July 2017

This study examined the influence of flow hydraulics and coarse particle mobility on bed scour adjacent to coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) redds in a coastal California watershed for a bankfull flood. It was theorized that coarse particle mobility (i.e., mobility of particles larger than the median bed particle size, D50) exerts a strong control on bed scour depth. Maximum scour depth at the study sites was found to be negatively correlated with flow shear stress, which is dissimilar to findings from previous scour studies in spawning reaches. This resulted from a relatively similar coarse particle size (D84) for all study sites and a negative relationship between shear stress and coarse particle exposure to flow (or the D84/D50 ratio), which together caused sites with low shear stress to have a high degree of localized coarse particle mobility and an associated high maximum scour depth. This study provides new insights into the vulnerability of spawning reaches with low flow energy to redd scour and highlights the need to consider the mobility of coarse particle sizes explicitly when examining the dominant controls on redd scour.
Surface and buried interface layer studies on challenging structures as studied by ARXPS
Authors: Sodhi Rana N. S. , Brodersen Peter , Cademartiri Ludovico , Thuo Martin M. , Nijhuis Christian A.
Published: July 2017

Previous extensive studies were performed at Surface Science Western on the treatment of III‐V semiconductors to produce surfaces suitable for subsequent epitaxial growth. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) was used to study oxide formation and capping techniques, and to monitor changes that would occur upon thermal desorption. The effects of a remote plasma on these surfaces were studied as well as to apply thin dielectric films of Si3N4 in order to study interfacial properties. Angle‐resolved XPS (ARXPS) was performed in many cases to ascertain oxide layer thickness, uniformity, and structure. For the types of surfaces studied—mirror finished semiconductors, ARXPS is straightforward, and the angular dependence is obtained by physically altering the surface orientation with respect to the analyser. While the sample can be repositioned with care to analyse the same spot, changing the angle will effectively change the sampling area, further, surface topography can preclude the use of ARXPS. Use of parallel PARXPS, now available on recent instrumentation, can alleviate these problems. In this case, photoelectrons are collected simultaneously from a large angle. A multichannel detector allows this to be split into smaller angles thereby giving the PARXPS spectra without physically tilting the sample. Further, because the sample is not tilted, topographical effects are minimised allowing meaningful data to be extracted from not so perfect samples. To illustrate this, a detailed PARXPS study on a gallium Indium eutectic (EGaIn) will be presented. Various methods of extracting the depth information from these spectra will be discussed. Finally, the application of using PARXPS to study buried interfaces will be briefly discussed. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Artificial Active Nanoreactor with Nature‐Inspired Sequential Catalytic Ability
Authors: Zuo Chongchong , Wei Wenjing , Zhou Qin , Wu Shuping , Li Songjun
Published: July 2017

This study is aimed at addressing the present challenge in tandem catalysis, where the sequential catalytic processes are often not compatible with each other and even engage in each other. The objective is met by reporting an artificial “active” nanoreactor capable of sequential catalytic ability. This nanoreactor is made of nature‐inspired “active” compartments consisting of core‐and‐shell architectures. The “active” compartments allow the nanoreactor to catalytically separate the tandem processes from each other, avoiding the occurrence of mutual interferences. Unlike the use of reported nanoreactors and conventional bi‐functional catalysts, the tandem catalysis at this nanoreactor involves neither the mutual competition nor the spatiotemporal mismatching between the tandem processes. This nanoreactor suggests a potential model for achieving sequential catalytic ability.
Facile Synthesis of a Heteroatoms′ Quaternary‐Doped Porous Carbon as an Efficient and Stable Metal‐Free Catalyst for Oxygen Reduction
Authors: Zhang Mei , Zhang Miao‐Miao , Wei Yong‐Sheng , Dong Xi‐Yan , Zang Shuang‐Quan
Published: July 2017

Facile preparation of metal‐free materials as efficient, stable and economical catalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is highly desirable but remains challenging for metal‐air battery and fuel cell applications. Herein, firstly through pyrolysing tea dregs with inorganic salts, we developed a simple approach to synthesize a heteroatoms quaternary‐doped (B, N, P, S) porous carbon as a new metal‐free ORR catalyst. Remarkably, after doping with heteroatoms, such prepared hybrid material displays significantly higher onset potential and limiting diffusion current density than the corresponding undoped carbon with similar specific surface area, and much better stability than commercial Pt/C catalyst in alkaline and even neutral solutions. Notably, when used in a Zn–air battery, our hybrid catalyst can reveal comparable open circuit voltage and power density, but better stability than these of Pt/C catalyst as well.
Effect of Welding Heat Input on Microstructure and Toughness of Heated‐Affected Zone in Steel Plate with Mg Deoxidation
Authors: Xu Longyun , Yang Jian , Wang Ruizhi , Wang Wanlin , Ren Zhongmin
Published: July 2017

Effect of heat input on the microstructure and toughness of heat‐affected zone (HAZ) in steel plate with Mg deoxidation has been investigated through welding thermal cycle simulation method. With the heat input increasing from 100–400 kJ cm−1, the average prior‐austenite grain (PAG) size is increased from 43 to 56 and then to 173 µm, and the HAZ microstructure is changed from fine bainite lath to relative larger bainite lath and then to grain boundary ferrite (GBF) and intragranular acicular ferrite (IAF). With the heat input increasing up to 400 kJ cm−1, a great amount of IAF is nucleated by the MgO–MnS inclusions with the size about 2 µm. The Charpy impact values at −40 °C of HAZ are larger than 140 J, and excellent low temperature HAZ toughness is obtained for the 68 mm thickness steel plate with Mg deoxidation with the heat input in the range from 100–400 kJ cm−1.
Neighborhoods, Schools, and Academic Achievement: A Formal Mediation Analysis of Contextual Effects on Reading and Mathematics Abilities
Authors: Wodtke Geoffrey T. , Parbst Matthew
Published: July 2017

Although evidence indicates that neighborhoods affect educational outcomes, relatively little research has explored the mechanisms thought to mediate these effects. This study investigates whether school poverty mediates the effect of neighborhood context on academic achievement. Specifically, it uses longitudinal data from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics, counterfactual methods, and a value-added modeling strategy to estimate the total, natural direct, and natural indirect effects of exposure to an advantaged rather than disadvantaged neighborhood on reading and mathematics abilities during childhood and adolescence. Contrary to expectations, results indicate that school poverty is not a significant mediator of neighborhood effects during either developmental period. Although moving from a disadvantaged neighborhood to an advantaged neighborhood is estimated to substantially reduce subsequent exposure to school poverty and improve academic achievement, school poverty does not play an important mediating role because even the large differences in school composition linked to differences in neighborhood context appear to have no appreciable effect on achievement. An extensive battery of sensitivity analyses indicates that these results are highly robust to unobserved confounding, alternative model specifications, alternative measures of school context, and measurement error, which suggests that neighborhood effects on academic achievement are largely due to mediating factors unrelated to school poverty.
Traditional God Images and Attitudes towards Voluntary Euthanasia
Authors: Sharp Shane
Published: July 2017

I use data from the General Social Survey (N = 8905) to evaluate whether imagining God in traditional ways is associated with attitudes towards voluntary euthanasia. Bivariate analysis reveals that individuals who imagine God as a father, a master, and a king have negative attitudes towards voluntary euthanasia. The associations between imagining God as a father and as a master and attitudes towards voluntary euthanasia hold after controlling for religious affiliation, frequency of religious attendance, views of the Bible, and other sociodemographic characteristics that predict attitudes towards voluntary euthanasia; however, the association between imagining God as a king do not. I also find that while there is no association between imagining God as a judge on voluntary euthanasia attitudes at the bivariate level, there is a significant and positive association with having favorable voluntary euthanasia attitudes in the full model, revealing a suppression effect. These findings highlight the importance of evaluating if different, distinct beliefs about the same religious object have differential associations with social attitudes and behaviors.
ISABE and the 2017 symposium
Authors: Breugelmans F.A.E.
Published: July 2017

Propulsion systems have revolutionised human activities and made the world smaller. They have brought transport advances that enabled the conversion of dreams into reality. Very large international high-technology investments are being made to continue to develop efficient and affordable gas turbine and ramjet propulsion while implementing knowledge that is bringing large environmental benefits.
Tourist Viewshed Externalities and Wind Energy Production
Authors: Fooks Jacob R. , Messer Kent D. , Duke Joshua M. , Johnson Janet B. , Li Tongzhe , Parsons George R.
Published: July 2017

This study uses an experiment where ferry passengers are sold hotel room “views” to evaluate the impact of wind turbines views on tourists’ vacation experience. Participants purchase a chance for a weekend hotel stay. Information about the hotel rooms was limited to the quality of the hotel and its distance from a large wind turbine, as well as whether or not a particular room would have a view of the turbine. While there was generally a negative effect of turbine views, this did not hold across all participants, and did not seem to be effected by distance or hotel quality.
The number sense is neither last resort nor of primary import
Authors: Beran Michael J. , Parrish Audrey E.
Published: July 2017

Leibovich et al. argue that evidence for an innate sense of number in children and animals may instead reflect the processing of continuous magnitude properties. However, some comparative research highlights responding on the basis of numerosity when non-numerical confounds are controlled. Future comparative tests might evaluate how early experience with continuous magnitudes affects the development of a sense of number.
Is the ANS linked to mathematics performance?
Authors: Inglis Matthew , Batchelor Sophie , Gilmore Camilla , Watson Derrick G.
Published: July 2017

Leibovich et al. argue persuasively that researchers should not assume that approximate number system (ANS) tasks harness an innate sense of number. However, some studies have reported a causal link between ANS tasks and mathematics performance, implicating the ANS in the development of numerical skills. Here we report a p-curve analysis, which indicates that these experimental studies do not contain evidential value.
Right idea, wrong magnitude system
Authors: Lourenco Stella F. , Aulet Lauren S. , Ayzenberg Vladislav , Cheung Chi-Ngai , Holmes Kevin J.
Published: July 2017

Leibovich et al. claim that number representations are non-existent early in life and that the associations between number and continuous magnitudes reside in stimulus confounds. We challenge both claims – positing, instead, that number is represented independently of continuous magnitudes already in infancy, but is nonetheless more deeply connected to other magnitudes through adulthood than acknowledged by the “sense of magnitude” theory.
Number faculty is alive and kicking: On number discriminations and number neurons
Authors: Nieder Andreas
Published: July 2017

Leibovich et al. advocate for a single “sense of magnitude” to which a dedicated faculty for number could allegedly be reduced. This conclusion is unjustified as the authors adopt an unnecessarily narrow definition of “number sense,” neglect studies that demonstrate non-symbolic numerosity representation, and furthermore ignore abstract number representations in the brain.
Numerical magnitude evaluation as a foundation for decision making
Authors: Olivola Christopher Y. , Chater Nick
Published: July 2017

The evaluation of magnitudes serves as a foundation not only for numerical and mathematical cognition, but also for decision making. Recent theoretical developments and empirical studies have linked numerical magnitude evaluation to a wide variety of core phenomena in decision making and challenge the idea that preferences are driven by an innate, universal, and stable sense of number or value.
How not to develop a sense of number
Authors: Opfer John E. , McCrink Koleen
Published: July 2017

The authors rightly point to the theoretical importance of interactions of space and number through the life span, yet propose a theory with several weaknesses. In addition to proclaiming itself unfalsifiable, its stage-like format and emphasis on the role of selective attention are at odds with what is known about the development of spatial-numerical associations in infancy.
What is a number? The interplay between number and continuous magnitudes
Authors: Rugani Rosa , Castiello Umberto , Priftis Konstantinos , Spoto Andrea , Sartori Luisa
Published: July 2017

Leibovich et al. argue that it is impossible to control for all continuous magnitudes in a numerical task. We contend that continuous magnitudes (i.e., perimeter, area, density) can be simultaneously controlled. Furthermore, we argue that shedding light on the interplay between number and continuous magnitudes – rather than considering them independently – will provide a much more fruitful approach to understanding mathematical abilities.
A “sense of magnitude” requires a new alternative for learning numerical symbols
Authors: Sasanguie Delphine , Reynvoet Bert
Published: July 2017

Leibovich et al. proposed that the processing of numerosities is based primarily on a “sense of magnitude.” The consequences of this proposal for how numerical symbols acquire their meaning are, however, neglected. We argue that symbols cannot be learned by associating them with a system that is not yet able to derive discrete numbers accurately because of immature cognitive control.
Numerical intuitions in infancy: Give credit where credit is due
Authors: Savelkouls Sophie , Cordes Sara
Published: July 2017

Leibovich et al. overlook numerous human infant studies pointing to an early emerging number sense. These studies have carefully manipulated continuous magnitudes in the context of a numerical task revealing that infants can discriminate number when extent is controlled, that infants fail to track extent cues with precision, and that infants find changes in extent less salient than numerical changes.
Controlling for continuous variables is not futile: What we can learn about number representation despite imperfect control
Authors: vanMarle Kristy
Published: July 2017

Leibovich et al. argue that because it is impossible to isolate numerosity in a stimulus set, attempts to show that number is processed independently of continuous magnitudes are necessarily in vain. I propose that through clever design and manipulation of confounding variables, we can gain deep insight into number representation and its relationship to the representation of other magnitudes.
The evolvement of discrete representations from continuous stimulus properties: A possible overarching principle of cognition
Authors: Gronau Nurit
Published: July 2017

Leibovich et al. propose that non-symbolic numerosity abilities develop from the processing of more basic, continuous magnitudes such as size, area, and density. Here I review similar arguments arising in the visual perception field and further propose that the evolvement of discrete representations from continuous stimulus properties may be a fundamental characteristic of cognitive development.
Computational foundations of the visual number sense
Authors: Stoianov Ivilin Peev , Zorzi Marco
Published: July 2017

We provide an emergentist perspective on the computational mechanism underlying numerosity perception, its development, and the role of inhibition, based on our deep neural network model. We argue that the influence of continuous visual properties does not challenge the notion of number sense, but reveals limit conditions for the computation that yields invariance in numerosity perception. Alternative accounts should be formalized in a computational model.
Toward an integrative approach to numerical cognition
Authors: Leibovich Tali , Katzin Naama , Salti Moti , Henik Avishai
Published: July 2017

In response to the commentaries, we have refined our suggested model and discussed ways in which the model could be further expanded. In this context, we have elaborated on the role of specific continuous magnitudes. We have also found it important to devote a section to evidence considered the “smoking gun” of the approximate number system theory, including cross-modal studies, animal studies, and so forth. Lastly, we suggested some ways in which the scientific community can promote more transparent and collaborative research by using an open science approach, sharing both raw data and stimuli. We thank the contributors for their enlightening comments and look forward to future developments in the field.
MUSEing about the SHAPE of eta Car's outer ejecta
Authors: Mehner A. , Steffen W. , Groh J. , Vogt F. P. A. , Baade D. , Boffin H. M. J. , de Wit W. J. , Oudmaijer R. D. , Rivinius T. , Selman F.
Published: July 2017

The role of episodic mass loss in evolved massive stars is one of the outstanding questions in stellar evolution theory. Integral field spectroscopy of nebulae around massive stars provide information on their recent mass-loss history. η Car is one of the most massive evolved stars and is surrounded by a complex circumstellar environment. We have conducted a three-dimensional morpho-kinematic analysis of η Car’s ejecta outside its famous Homunculus nebula. SHAPE modelling of VLT MUSE data establish unequivocally the spatial cohesion of the outer ejecta and the correlation of ejecta with the soft X-ray emission.
Light-curve and spectral properties of ultra-stripped core-collapse supernovae
Authors: Moriya Takashi J.
Published: July 2017

We discuss light-curve and spectral properties of ultra-stripped core-collapse supernovae. Ultra-stripped supernovae are supernovae with ejecta masses of only ~0.1M⊙ whose progenitors lose their envelopes due to binary interactions with their compact companion stars. We follow the evolution of an ultra-stripped supernova progenitor until core collapse and perform explosive nucleosynthesis calculations. We then synthesize light curves and spectra of ultra-stripped supernovae based on the nucleosynthesis results. We show that ultra-stripped supernovae synthesize ~0.01M⊙ of the radioactive 56Ni, and their typical peak luminosity is around 1042 erg s−1 or −16 mag. Their typical rise time is 5 − 10 days. By comparing synthesized and observed spectra, we find that SN 2005ek and some of so-called calcium-rich gap transients like PTF10iuv may be related to ultra-stripped supernovae.
Spectropolarimetry of the BL-Ic SN 2014ad
Authors: Stevance H. F. , Maund J. R.
Published: July 2017

Over the past two decades a clear relation between Gamma-Ray Bursts (GRBs) and some broad-lined Type Ic Supernovae (SNe) has been observed. The use of spectropolarimetry allows us to directly probe the 3D geometry of the unresolved ejecta of SNe, which can help us better understand the physics of their explosion and the SN-GRB connection. We present 7 epochs of spectropolarimetry of the broad-lined Type Ic SN 2014ad and highlight its similarities with SN 1998bw.
A new prescription for the mass-loss rates of hydrogen-free WR stars
Authors: Tramper Frank , Sana Hugues , de Koter Alex
Published: July 2017

We present a new empirical prescription for the mass-loss rates of hydrogen-free Wolf-Rayet stars based on results of detailed spectral analyses of WC and WO stars. Compared to the prescription of Nugis & Lamers (2000), Ṁ is less sensitive to the surface helium abundance, implying a stronger mass loss at the late stages of Wolf-Rayet evolution. The winds of hydrogen-free WN stars have a strong metallicity dependence, while those of WC and WO stars have a very weak metallicity dependence.
Exploring the physics of core-collapse supernovae with multidimensional simulations: from axisymmetry to three dimensions
Authors: Summa Alexander , Janka Hans-Thomas , Hanke Florian , Melson Tobias , Marek Andreas , Müller Bernhard
Published: July 2017

Multidimensional effects are essential for the success of the neutrino-driven explosion mechanism of core-collapse supernovae. Although astrophysical phenomena in nature involve three spatial dimensions, the huge computational demands still allow only for a few self-consistent, three-dimensional (3D) simulations focusing on specific aspects of the explosion physics, whereas systematic studies of larger sets of progenitor models or detailed investigations of different explosion parameters are restricted to the axisymmetric (2D) modeling approach at the moment. Employing state-of-the-art neutrino physics, we present the results of self-consistent core-collapse supernova simulations performed with the Prometheus-Vertex code in 2D and 3D. The 2D study of 18 successfully exploding pre-supernova models in the range of 11 to 28 solar masses shows the progenitor dependence of the explosion dynamics: if the progenitor exhibits a pronounced decline of the density at the Si/Si-O composition shell interface, the rapid drop of the mass-accretion rate at the time the interface arrives at the shock induces a steep reduction of the accretion ram pressure. This causes a strong shock expansion supported by neutrino heating and thus favors an early explosion. In case of a more gradually decreasing accretion rate, it takes longer for the neutrino heating to overcome the accretion ram pressure and explosions set in later. By considering the effects of turbulent pressure in the gain layer, we derive a generalized condition for the critical neutrino luminosity that captures the explosion behavior of all models very well. We show that this concept can also be extended to describe the effects of rotation as well as the behavior of recent 3D simulations and that the conditions necessary for the onset of explosion can be defined in a similar way.
Exploring the explosion mechanism of core-collapse supernovae in three dimensions
Authors: Melson Tobias , Janka Hans-Thomas , Summa Alexander , Bollig Robert , Marek Andreas , Müller Bernhard
Published: July 2017

We present the first successful simulations of neutrino-driven supernova explosions in three dimensions (3D) using the Vertex-Prometheus code including sophisticated energy-dependent neutrino transport. The simulated models of 9.6 and 20 solar-mass iron-core stars demonstrate that successful explosions can be obtained in self-consistent 3D simulations, where previous models have failed. New insights into the supernova mechanism can be gained from these explosions. The first 3D model (Melson et al. 2015a) explodes at the same time but more energetically than its axially symmetric (2D) counterpart. Turbulent energy cascading reduces the kinetic energy dissipation in the cooling layer and therefore suppresses neutrino cooling. The consequent inward shift of the gain radius increases the gain layer mass, whose recombination energy provides the surplus for the explosion energy.

The second explosion (Melson et al. 2015b) is obtained through a moderate reduction of the neutral-current neutrino opacity motivated by strange-quark contributions to the nucleon spin. A corresponding reference model without these corrections failed, which demonstrates how close current 3D models are to explosion. The strangeness adjustment is meant as a prototype for remaining neutrino opacity uncertainties.
Machine-learning approaches to select Wolf-Rayet candidates
Authors: Marston A. P. , Morello G. , Morris P. , Van Dyk S. , Mauerhan J.
Published: July 2017

The WR stellar population can be distinguished, at least partially, from other stellar populations by broad-band IR colour selection. We present the use of a machine learning classifier to quantitatively improve the selection of Galactic Wolf-Rayet (WR) candidates. These methods are used to separate the other stellar populations which have similar IR colours. We show the results of the classifications obtained by using the 2MASS J, H and K photometric bands, and the Spitzer/IRAC bands at 3.6, 4.5, 5.8 and 8.0μm. The k-Nearest Neighbour method has been used to select Galactic WR candidates for observational follow-up. A few candidates have been spectroscopically observed. Preliminary observations suggest that a detection rate of 50% can easily be achieved.
Equilibrium structures of rapidly rotating stars with shellular rotation
Authors: Fujisawa Kotaro , Yamamoto Yu
Published: July 2017

We have developed a new numerical method for obtaining self-consistent structures of rapidly rotating stars. We obtained self-consistent equilibrium structures of rapidly rotating massive stars with shellular rotation by using the method. These equilibrium structures might be useful for both evolution of rapidly rotating massive stars and progenitor models of core-collapse supernovae simulations.
Detectability of Wolf-Rayet stars in M33 and Beyond the Local Group
Authors: Brocklebank Aaron J. , Pledger J. L. , Sansom A. E.
Published: July 2017

To understand how complete our surveys of Wolf-Rayet (WR) stars can be with the current generation of telescopes, we study images of M33, a galaxy with a nearly complete WR catalogue, and degrade them to investigate the detectability of WRs out to 30Mpc. We lose almost half of our sample at 4.2Mpc, and at 30Mpc we detect only those WRs in bright regions.
The origin of the dusty envelope around Betelgeuse
Authors: Haubois Xavier , Norris Barnaby , Tuthill Peter G. , Pinte Christophe , Kervella Pierre , Girard Julien , Perrin Guy , Lacour Sylvestre , Chiavassa Andrea , Ridgway S. T.
Published: July 2017

The origin of red supergiant mass loss still remains to be unveiled. Characterising the formation loci and the dust distribution in the first stellar radii above the surface is key to understand the initiation of the mass loss phenomenon. Polarimetric interferometry observations in the near-infrared allowed us to detect an inner dust atmosphere located only 0.5 stellar radius above the photosphere of Betelgeuse. We modelled these observations and compare them with visible polarimetric measurements to discuss the dust distribution properties.