bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Truth of Conditional Assertions
Authors: Goodwin Geoffrey P. , Johnson‐Laird P. N.
Published: August 2018

Given a basic conditional of the form, If A then C, individuals usually list three cases as possible: A and C, not‐A and not‐C, not‐A and C. This result corroborates the theory of mental models. By contrast, individuals often judge that the conditional is true only in the case of A and C, and that cases of not‐A are irrelevant to its truth or falsity. This result corroborates other theories of conditionals. To resolve the discrepancy, we devised two new tasks: the “collective” truth task, in which participants judged whether sets of assertions about a specific individual, such as: If A then C, not‐A, C, could all be true at the same time; and one in which participants judged the truth of conditional predictions about specific future events. The results consistently matched the three possibilities, thereby corroborating the model theory. They also showed a massive violation of the probability calculus in estimates of the probabilities of the four cases in the partition of conditionals (A and C, A and not‐C, not‐A and C, and not‐A and not‐C), which summed to over 200%.
Politicians in the boardroom: Is it a convenient burden?
Authors: Pascual‐Fuster Bartolomé , Crespí‐Cladera Rafel
Published: August 2018

Manuscript Type

Empirical

Research Question/Issue

Our paper analyzes whether firms appoint former politicians to relevant positions (Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary) in the boardroom and on the main delegated committees. We also analyze how former politicians perform in their monitoring tasks as board directors.

Research Findings/Insights

We find evidence that the probability of having former politicians in relevant positions on boards of directors and on the main delegated committees is not different from that of the other directors. We also find that their activity does not affect board performance in terms of CEO turnover control, executive director compensation, audit qualifications, and earnings management. It is only when politicians serve as proprietary directors, representing large shareholders, or as executive directors that we find some evidence that board monitoring performance deteriorates.

Theoretical/Academic Implications

Our analysis suggests that the expected positive contributions predicted by resource dependence theory regarding the political connections that are provided to the firm by former politicians serving as board directors do not generally imply higher agency costs due to weaker monitoring performance. Our analysis provides a more comprehensive understanding of the implications of resource dependence theory and of agency theory to explain politicians' functions on boards of directors.

Practitioner/Policy Implications

We deliver a better understanding of the specific implications of having politicians on boards of directors, providing guidance on how to configure a board to maximize the value that politically connected directors provide. Furthermore, regulators and investors should consider that the general interests of shareholders may be better protected when former politicians serve as independent directors. https://youtu.be/pBsOZIwqdAQ
Genomewide association study reveals novel genetic loci associated with change in renal function in heart transplant recipients
Authors: Asleh Rabea , Snipelisky David , Hathcock Matthew , Kremers Walter , Liu Duan , Batzler Anthony , Jenkins Gregory , Kushwaha Sudhir , Pereira Naveen L.
Published: August 2018

Background

Renal dysfunction occurs commonly after heart transplantation (HTx) with wide inter‐individual variability but whether a genetic predisposition exists in these patients is unknown. Genomewide association studies (GWAS) have not been performed to assess the association of genetic variation with change in renal function after HTx.

Methods

Clinical and demographic data of patients who underwent HTx and provided blood samples and consent for genetic analysis were included. Genotyping was performed using Illumina Infinium Human CoreExome v1.0 analysis kit. A GWAS utilizing linear regression models was performed with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) at 1 year as the phenotype after adjusting for baseline eGFR prior to HTx and conversion from calcineurin inhibitor to sirolimus as primary immunosuppression therapy.

Results

A total of 251 HTx recipients were genotyped for 314,903 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). The mean (SD) age was 50 (12.5) years; most patients were of European origin (n = 243, 96.8%) and males (n = 179, 71.3%). After adjustment for potential confounders, two variants, rs17033285 (P = 4.3 × 10−7) and rs4917601 (P = 6.46 × 10−7), in a long non‐coding RNA (lncRNA) gene LINC01121 and a pseudogene BTBD7P2, were identified to have a significant association with change in GFR at 1 year after HTx.

Conclusions

Our first of its kind GWAS demonstrates that genetic variation affects renal function after HTx independent of other risk factors. Agnostic genetic approaches such as these may lead to identification of novel biological pathways such as the role of lncRNAs in the development of renal dysfunction post‐HTx.
Children's scale errors: A by‐product of lexical development?
Authors: Grzyb Beata J. , Cangelosi Angelo , Cattani Allegra , Floccia Caroline
Published: August 2018

Scale errors occur when young children seriously attempt to perform an action on an object which is impossible due to its size. Children vary substantially in the incidence of scale errors with many factors potentially contributing to these differences, such as age and the type of scale errors. In particular, the evidence for an inverted U‐shaped curve of scale errors involving the child's body (i.e., body scale errors), which would point to a developmental stage, is mixed. Here we re‐examine how body scale errors vary with age and explore the possibility that these errors would be related to the size and properties of children's lexicon. A large sample of children aged 18–30 months (N = 125) was tested in a scale error elicitation situation. Additionally, parental questionnaires were collected to assess children's receptive and expressive lexicon. Our key findings are that scale errors linearly decrease with age in childhood, and are more likely to be found in early talkers rather than in less advanced ones. This suggests that scale errors do not correspond to a developmental stage, and that one determinant of these errors is the speed of development of the linguistic and conceptual system, as a potential explanation for the individual variability in prevalence.
Visceral Fibromuscular Dysplasia: From asymptomatic disorder to emergency
Authors: Van der Niepen Patricia , van Tussenbroek Frank , Devos Hannes , Debing Erik , Di Monaco Silvia , Goffette Pierre , Astarci Parla , Persu Alexandre
Published: August 2018

Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) is an idiopathic, segmental, non‐atherosclerotic and non‐inflammatory disease of the musculature of arterial walls, leading to stenosis of small and medium‐sized arteries, mostly involving renal and cervical arteries. As a result of better and more systematic screening, it appears that involvement of the splanchnic vascular bed is more frequent than originally assumed. We review epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical picture as well as diagnosis and treatment of visceral artery (VA) FMD. The clinical picture is very diverse, and diagnosis is based on CT‐, MR‐ or conventional catheter‐based angiography. Involvement of VAs generally occurs among patients with multi‐vessel FMD. Therefore, screening for VA FMD is advised especially in renal artery (RA) FMD and in case of aneurysms and/or dissections. Treatment depends on the clinical picture. However, the level of evidence is low, and much of the common practice is extrapolated from visceral atherosclerotic disease.
Predicting the phenology of codling moth, Cydia pomonella, for sustainable pest management in Swiss apple orchards
Authors: Graf B. , Höhn H. , Höpli H.U. , Kuske S.
Published: August 2018

The effects of temperature on post‐diapause development, female lifespan, and reproduction of Cydia pomonella L. (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) were studied under controlled conditions to determine the respective parameters for a temperature‐driven phenology model. Lower thermal thresholds of 10.0 and 9.7 °C and thermal constants of 417.2 and 427.7 degree days were established for post‐diapause development of females and males, respectively. Female lifespan was found to be 202.6 degree days on average, with a lower thermal threshold of 11.2 °C. Total fecundity was highest at 27.7 °C with an average of 241.9 eggs per female. Literature data were used to quantify the lower thermal thresholds and the thermal constants for eggs, larvae, and pupae. For validation, the model was run with weather data from 13 consecutive years and the output was compared with pheromone trap catches from 39 to 63 different orchards, depending on the year. The model proved to be a reliable and useful tool to forecast codling moth phenology under Swiss conditions not only for a whole growing season but also during several years with very variable weather conditions. Hence, it can be used to support apple growers in pest management decisions on the one hand and to predict changes in codling moth phenology with respect to climate change on the other.
Mental health service use decision‐making among young adults at clinical high risk for developing psychosis
Authors: Ben‐David Shelly , Cole Andrea , Brucato Gary , Girgis Ragy R. , Munson Michelle R.
Published: August 2018

Aim

Research has shown that young adults at clinical high risk (CHR) for developing psychosis have the capability to recognize that they have a problem and initiate mental health services, yet there is a paucity of theoretically based research examining this decision‐making process. This is critical to study because there are high rates of underutilization of mental health services among these young people. The following study explored the decision‐making process among young adults at CHR in order to understand mental health services utilization at a CHR clinic.

Methods

Semi‐structured face‐to‐face interviews were conducted with 30 young adults at CHR between the ages of 18 and 30, from an Eastern city in the United States. The study applied the unified theory of behaviour (UTB), a decision‐making framework for health behaviour, to examine service use. Content analysis with multiple coders was used.

Results

The most salient constructs discussed when participants envisioned seeking services at the clinic included attitudes or beliefs about help‐seeking, social image beliefs and emotional reactions towards seeking services. Differences in UTB responses emerged depending on whether participants were engaged in clinical services and research at the time of the interview or just taking part in research follow‐ups.

Conclusion

When designing future interventions to increase service utilization among young adults at CHR, programs can address health beliefs such as how services at the clinic can improve symptoms, stigma and difficult emotions such as fear and shame about seeking services, and particularly among young people who are more ambivalent about seeking clinical services.
A microcalorimetric approach for investigating stoichiometric constraints on the standard metabolic rate of a small invertebrate
Authors: Ruiz Thomas , Bec Alexandre , Danger Michael , Koussoroplis Apostolos‐Manuel , Aguer Jean‐Pierre , Morel Jean‐Pierre , Morel‐Desrosiers Nicole
Published: August 2018

Understanding the determinants of metabolism is a core ecological topic since it permits to link individual energetic requirements to the ecology of communities and ecosystems. Yet, besides temperature, metabolic responses to environmental factors remain poorly understood. For example, it is commonly assumed that dietary stoichiometric constraints increase metabolism of small invertebrates despite scarce experimental support. Here, we used microcalorimetric measurements to determine the standard metabolic rate (SMR) of Daphnia magna fed stoichiometrically balanced (C/P: 166) or imbalanced (C/P: 1439). Daphnids fed imbalanced maintained their stoichiometric homeostasis within narrow boundaries. However, they consistently increased their SMR while decreasing their growth rate. Our measurements demonstrate that homeostatic regulation implies higher metabolic costs, thereby reducing available energy for growth. We demonstrate that microcalorimetry is a powerful and precise tool for measuring small‐sized organisms’ metabolic rate, thus opening promising perspectives for understanding how environmental factors, such as nutritional constraints, affect organismal metabolism.
Mechanisms of status epilepticus: α‐Amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazolepropionic acid receptor hypothesis
Authors: Joshi Suchitra , Kapur Jaideep
Published: August 2018

Prolonged seizures of status epilepticus (SE) result from failure of mechanisms of seizure termination or activation of mechanisms that sustain seizures. Reduced γ‐aminobutyric acid type A receptor–mediated synaptic transmission contributes to impairment of seizure termination. However, mechanisms that sustain prolonged seizures are not known. We propose that insertion of GluA1 subunits at the glutamatergic synapses causes potentiation of α‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazolepropionic receptor (AMPAR)‐mediated neurotransmission, which helps to spread and sustain seizures. The AMPAR‐mediated neurotransmission of CA1 pyramidal neurons was increased in animals in SE induced by pilocarpine. The surface membrane expression of GluA1 subunit–containing AMPARs on CA1 pyramidal neurons was also increased. Blockade of N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate receptors 10 minutes after the onset of continuous electrographic seizure activity prevented the increase in the surface expression of GluA1 subunits. N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate receptor antagonist MK‐801 in conjunction with diazepam also terminated seizures that were refractory to MK‐801 or diazepam alone. Future studies using mice lacking the GluA1 subunit expression will provide further insights into the role of GluA1 subunit–containing AMPAR plasticity in sustaining seizures of SE.
SENSE registry for status epilepticus
Authors: Kellinghaus Christoph , Rossetti Andrea O. , Trinka Eugen , Lang Nicolas , Unterberger Iris , Rüegg Stephan , Tilz Christian , Uzelac Zeljko , Rosenow Felix
Published: August 2018

Evidence is scarce regarding the treatment of status epilepticus (SE). Only a few large randomized controlled trials have been published. Therefore, we set up a multicenter registry to prospectively document treatment practice in several different large hospitals in German‐speaking countries. Over a period of more than 4 years, we were able to document 1179 episodes of 1049 patients who were treated for SE in 1 of the 8 participating centers in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Median age was 70 years. The most frequent etiology was remote (32%), followed by acute (31%), or a mixture of acute and remote factors (10%). Semiology was generalized convulsive in 44%, focal motor in 27%, and nonconvulsive in 30%. Only a few patients did not have relevant comorbidities. Median latency between SE onset and first treatment was 1 hour (median). Three hundred ninety‐three (32%) of the patients were treated within 30 minutes after onset. The first treatment step consisted of benzodiazepines in more than 80%, and in levetiracetam in 15%. Five hundred eleven patients (49%) were refractory (defined as ongoing SE after application of benzodiazepine and 1 intravenous anticonvulsant). Further analysis of these registry data may be important for hypothesis generation and trial design for treatment of status epilepticus.
Analysing the water and greenhouse gas effects of soya bean‐based biodiesel in five different regions
Authors: Knoope Marlinde M. J. , Balzer Christoph H. , Worrell Ernst
Published: August 2018

Bioenergy may have significant lower greenhouse gas (GHG) emission intensities compared to fossil alternatives, but concerns are raised that bioenergy would contribute to additional water scarcity. Therefore, the GHG intensity, water intensity and water‐related risks are analysed simultaneously for conventional diesel and soya bean‐based biodiesel from Argentina, Brazil, Unites States (U.S.), Thailand and Iran on a life cycle basis. The water‐related risks are estimated with a water scarcity—consumption matrix, which was recently developed. Results show that a significant share (9%‐38%) of the GHG emissions in all biodiesel cases is caused by soil N2O emissions. In addition, the ranges in water consumption intensity for soya bean‐based biodiesel are considerably larger than for fossil fuels. However, whether this leads to high water‐related risks depends on the local water scarcity. Soya bean‐based biodiesel from Argentina has low water‐related risks to all nodes of the supply chain due to low local water stress combined with a low direct water consumption intensity (20 L/GJfuel). In addition, high GHG emission reduction (71%) and a low‐specific eutrophication potential (0.04 kg PO43−/GJfuel) are achieved. The indirect water consumption intensity is estimated at 120–420 L/GJ for soya bean‐based biodiesel, which is significant if the soya beans are rainfed, like in Argentina and Brazil. If irrigation is required, indirect water consumption is dwarfed by irrigation water. Overall, it is concluded that soya bean‐based biodiesel can have significant lower GHG emission intensity than fossil diesel, without causing additional water stress in the supply chain if they are produced in water abundant areas and good agricultural practices are used. The used method shows disaggregated water‐related risks for the different nodes of the supply chain to acknowledge the regional nature of water scarcity and enables decision makers to identify “hot spots” and take targeted actions.
Traits of lizards of the world: Variation around a successful evolutionary design
Authors: Meiri Shai
Published: August 2018

Motivation

over the last 12 years I have been collecting trait and geographic data on lizards. These data could be useful for scientists studying this remarkable reptilian radiation. Furthermore, as published data for some of the less well known species are scarce, I hope this study can initiate a community effort to fill in data gaps. I present geographical, morphological, ecological, physiological and life history data for the 6,657 known species of lizards. I further indicate whether there are phylogenetic data associated with them, and their threat assessment, if they have one. I present descriptive statistics regarding these traits and point to avenues for future research using the dataset.

Main types of variable contained

body size, ecological, thermal biology, geographic, phylogenetic and life history data.

Spatial location

Global.

Time period

data are for species known from living, or recently extinct species. Most underlying data were collected during the 20th and 21st centuries.

Major taxa

Reptilia, Sauria (Squamata, including Amphisbaenia but excluding Serpentes).

Level of measurement

species.

Software format

csv.
Robustness of relative diversity metrics to inventory incompleteness: Could we estimate the near imponderable?
Authors: Azovsky Andrey I.
Published: August 2018

Aim

Relative diversity metrics (RDMs), such as local : global or regional : global diversity ratios and percentage of endemics, are widely applied in biodiversity studies. This approach, however, is flawed because the real global diversity of many taxa is still largely unknown, especially for rare species. This potential inconsistency of RDMs has not been proved (or disproved) thus far. Here, I use simulation models to explore the efficiency of RDM estimations from incomplete inventories.

Location

World‐wide.

Methods

Three simple models of species distribution were used: (a) the “everything is everywhere” model (unlimited dispersal, i.e., equal probability for a species to occur at every point); (b) the “environmental selection” model (each species can occupy only a portion of randomly distributed “suitable localities” according to its ecological preferences); and (c) the “endemicity” model (most species are restricted to a few regions each). To parameterize these models, the world‐wide datasets on ciliates, flagellates and harpacticoid copepods were used. The RDMs were estimated by simulating equal‐effort sampling and by varying the full number of species and number of sampled individuals per cell.

Results

Estimated species richness at any scale was heavily influenced by the sampling effort and was greatly underestimated with small sample sizes. The estimated RDM values also depended on the sampling effort (being either upward or downward biased) but were only slightly influenced by the unrecorded part of real global diversity (ignorance). The predictions of the first two models were generally close to each other but differed noticeably from those of the third model.

Main conclusions

The relative metrics, albeit influenced by undersampling, are nevertheless more robust to inventory incompleteness than absolute measures and can therefore be a reliable tool in comparative biodiversity studies, even if the true number of species cannot be estimated overall. Their estimated values, however, must be interpreted with caution.
Community‐dwelling older men with dementia are at high risk of hip fracture, but not any other fracture: The Concord Health and Aging in Men Project
Authors: Hsu Benjumin , Bleicher Kerrin , Waite Louise M , Naganathan Vasi , Blyth Fiona M , Handelsman David J , Le Couteur David G , Seibel Markus J , Cumming Robert G
Published: August 2018

Aim

The aim of the present longitudinal study of community‐dwelling older men was to examine the association between cognitive status at baseline, and falls, fractures and bone loss over time.

Methods

In the Concord Health and Aging in Men Project, 1705 community‐dwelling men aged 70–97 years had detailed baseline clinical assessment of cognitive status (dementia, mild cognitive impairment [MCI] and normal cognition), as well as depression, physical activity, neuromuscular function, health status, sociodemographics, comorbidities, medication use and serum 25 hydroxyvitamin D, 1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D and parathyroid hormone levels. During a mean follow‐up period of 6 years, participants were contacted 4‐monthly to ascertain incident falls and fractures, the latter being confirmed by radiographic reports. Bone mineral density was measured by dual X‐ray absorptiometry at multiple time‐points.

Results

At baseline, 120 men were assessed to have MCI and 93 men to have dementia. Over time, there were 162 first incident fractures, including 43 hip and 32 vertebral fractures. In univariate models, baseline dementia, but not MCI, predicted an increased incidence of hip fracture (HR 6.95, 95% CI 3.47–13.96), but not vertebral (HR 2.26, 95% CI 0.79–6.46) or non‐hip non‐vertebral fracture (HR 0.73, 95% CI 0.27–1.99). The strong risk of hip fractures associated with dementia remained after accounting for potential confounders (HR 4.44, 95% CI 1.97–9.98). In multivariate analyses, dementia (incidence rate ratio 2.26, 95% CI 1.70–2.99), but not MCI, was associated with an increased risk of falls compared with normal cognition. There was no association between baseline dementia and change in bone mineral density.

Conclusions

Older men with dementia, but not MCI, have a greater tendency to fall and sustain hip fractures, but not any other types of fractures. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2018; 18: 1479–1484.
Development of a novel conditional knockdown mouse based on YB‐1 protein degradation
Authors: Huang Lijuan , Ozawa Masaaki , Miyamoto‐Sato Etsuko
Published: August 2018

To clarify the pathogenic mechanism of disease and establish effective therapies, animal disease models that can be dynamically analyzed are urgently required. Knockout mouse models and conditional genetically engineered mouse models were developed to analyze genes and proteins involved in disease. However, these methods have drawbacks, including embryonic lethality, side effects and low efficiency. To address this issue, we created a novel transgenic mouse model in which the YB1 gene was fused with a destabilizing domain (DD), named the YB1‐DD mouse. YB‐1 is widely expressed throughout development and has been implicated as a cell survival factor. Newly synthesized DD proteins are degraded through the proteasome pathway, but their degradation can be blocked with trimethoprim (TMP). In this study, we established a novel conditional knockdown mouse model that enables targeting of protein degradation directly; this model resulted in dose‐dependent regulation of the target protein YB‐1 by the ligand TMP in YB1 heterozygous mice. Since this conditional knockdown mouse model appears to be functional, it has potential as a useful disease model based on direct protein degradation control.
Measuring therapeutic relationship in the care of patients with haemophilia: A scoping review
Authors: McCabe Erin , Miciak Maxi , Dennett Liz , Manns Patricia , Guptill Christine , Hall Jeremy , Gross Douglas P.
Published: August 2018

Objective

We conducted a scoping review of the tools used to measure therapeutic relationship in patients with haemophilia.

Background

Haemophilia is an inherited bleeding disorder caused by a deficiency of a clotting factor in the blood. Therapeutic relationship is foundational to the management of patients with chronic diseases like haemophilia. A reliable and valid measurement tool for assessing therapeutic relationship is needed to evaluate the quality of care received by these patients, and to rigorously study the association between therapeutic relationship and the outcomes of treatment.

Methods

We adopted the Arksey and O'Malley framework for scoping studies. The following electronic databases were searched for studies that measured a construct related to therapeutic relationships in haemophilia care: MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO and Scopus. We inventoried these studies, identified the measurement tools used, and described each tool by purpose, content, measurement properties and target population. We identified gaps in the current evidence and directions for future research.

Results

There were 253 unique records retrieved in the search, and twenty studies were deemed relevant. Ten measurement tools were identified. None of the tools measured therapeutic relationship as a single entity; however, six tools measured constructs considered part of patient‐provider relationship (eg trust, communication, working alliance). There has been little validation testing of these tools in haemophilia patient populations.

Conclusions

There is a need for a validated tool for measuring therapeutic relationship in the care of patients with haemophilia. This review provides a foundation for future research in this area.
Diagnostic performance of clinical characteristics to detect airflow limitation in people living with HIV and in uninfected controls
Authors: Ronit A , Benfield T , Mocroft A , Gerstoft J , Nordestgaard BG , Vestbo J , Nielsen SD ,   the Copenhagen Co‐morbidity in HIV Infection (COCOMO) Study Group
Published: August 2018

Objectives

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is underdiagnosed in the general population and possibly also in people living with HIV (PLWH). We evaluated the diagnostic performance of symptoms and risk factors for assessment of airflow limitation in PLWH and in uninfected controls.

Methods

Spirometry was performed in the Copenhagen Comorbidity in HIV Infection (COCOMO) study and Copenhagen General Population Study (CGPS), and airflow limitation was defined by forced expiratory volume in 1 s/forced vital capacity < lower limit of normal. We calculated the sensitivity, specificity, predictive values and area under the curve (AUC) of symptoms and risk factors for assessment of airflow limitation in PLWH and uninfected controls.

Results

A total of 1083 PLWH and 12 074 uninfected controls were included in the study. The sensitivity for sputum, chronic cough, breathlessness, wheezing, current and cumulative smoking and self‐reported COPD was higher, but the specificity lower, in PLWH than in uninfected controls. The negative and positive predictive values were largely similar between the groups. The AUCs were similar or slightly higher in PLWH and highest for > 20 pack‐years smoked [0.65; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.58–0.72] and wheezing (0.64; 95% CI 0.57–0.71). A summed score for five variables was associated with slightly higher AUC in PLWH compared with uninfected controls [0.71 (95% CI 0.63–0.79) versus 0.65 (95% CI 0.63–0.68), respectively; P = 0.06].

Conclusions

Clinical variables were relatively poor discriminators of airflow limitation in PLWH and uninfected controls. Active COPD case finding by screening for symptoms and relevant exposures, as recommended in the general population, is likely to yield similar diagnostic power in PLWH.
Effect of process parameters on the microstructure and property of hydroxyapatite precursor powders and resultant sintered bodies
Authors: Liu Dan , Wu Yonghao , Wu Hongfeng , Li Xiangfeng , Yang Xiao , Zhu Xiangdong , Zhang Xingdong
Published: August 2018

Nanocrystalline hydroxyapatite (HA) ceramic could have better potential in biomedical application due to its high bioactivity and mechanical strength. This study aimed at investigating on the relationship between the starting HA powders and resultant HA ceramics. The synthesized HA crystals using chemical precipitation showed different morphology, size, and crystallinity under different reaction temperature and aging time. The spray‐dried HA powders from the different HA slurries synthesized at 40, 60, and 80°C had spherical shapes and similar particles size but different specific surface area (SSA). Lower synthesizing temperature resulted in lower crystallinity and need‐like shape of the HA crystals, and thus higher SSA of the spray‐dried HA powders. After cold isostatic pressing of the HA powders, the HA green compacts were sintered at 1000, 1050, and 1150°C, respectively, and they presented different sinterability, compactness, and mechanical strength, which were tightly dependent on the starting HA powders. As compared to 80°C synthesized powders, 40 and 60°C synthesized powders exhibited better sinterability due to the lower crystallinity and higher SSA, leading to the relatively high compactness and mechanical strength, but small grain size below 100 nm of the resultant HA ceramics even at low sintering temperature of 1050°C.
Research on slag‐resistance of ZrN‐SiAlON‐SiC‐C composite refractory in different atmospheres
Authors: Cheng Bohao , Zhang Zhijie , Wu Xiaowen , Min Xin , Huang Zhaohui , Tao Tianyi , Zhao Haiqing , Fang Minghao , Liu Yan‐gai
Published: August 2018

The ZrN‐SiAlON composite powder was synthesized using low‐grade zircon and bauxite by carbothermal reduction nitridation at first and then ZrN‐SiAlON‐SiC‐C composite refractory were fabricated with the ZrN‐SiAlON powder, SiC particles, and a small amount of Si powder as raw materials and sucrose as the binder. The slag resistance of these composites in O2, N2 and Ar atmosphere was investigated by X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and energy dispersion spectra. The results show that the pores in the inside of ZrN‐SiAlON‐SiC‐C composite refractory were enlarged in oxygen atmosphere due to oxidation, which leads to the decrease in slag resistance. In argon atmosphere, blast furnace slag destroyed the sintered body of zircon, corundum, and cristobalite with the formation of CaZrO3, then infiltrated into and filled the pores inside the refractory to form a dense layer, which hindered the further erosion of the blast furnace slag. In the reducing atmosphere, the interfacial energy of the gas‐liquid phases became larger due to the reactions between blast furnace slag liquid and the gas, resulting in a larger wetting angle which prevented the erosion.
Inclusion of heritage language learners on the autism spectrum: Lessons from second‐generation parents
Authors: Yu Betty , Hsia Summer
Published: August 2018

Drawing on the frameworks offamily language policyandlinguistic practice, this study examines the constraints and affordances of heritage language maintenance efforts in three families of children on the autism spectrum whose parents are second‐generation Chinese‐Americans. The findings show the parents’ choices for facilitating heritage language maintenance were significantly constrained by the pressures for their children to achieve normative standards and by the lack of supports for addressing their children's intersectional needs. We discuss the implications of these findings and make an argument for an inclusive approach to education grounded in an intersectional understanding of disability and language.
Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) and multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS): one more reason for a new effective treatment against leishmaniasis
Authors: Cuestas Daniel , Forero Yency , Galvis Ingrid , Peñaranda Elkin , Cortes Carolina , Motta Adriana , Mora Sergio , Pérez Carlos , Velasquez Oscar , Puentes José
Published: August 2018

Introduction

Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) syndrome is a severe drug‐induced reaction associated with eosinophilia and systemic manifestations. Anticonvulsants, sulfonamides, and antivirals are the most related and described drugs in DRESS syndrome.

Methods and case

We present a case of severe multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) with the risk of death associated with DRESS syndrome due to antileishmanial pentavalent antimonial drug and its simultaneous toxicity. Consequently, a comprehensive review of the main clinical problems and comparative discussion of both clinical conditions was made.

Discussion

The overlap of DRESS syndrome and antileishmanial pentavalent antimonial drug toxicity can be life‐threatening. Both conditions represent a true clinical, diagnostic, and therapeutic challenge. We exposed specific clinical and laboratory results with rare occurrence.

Conclusion

Any physician and dermatologists should keep in mind the broad spectrum of clinical manifestations and laboratory findings associated with the use of pentavalent antimonial drugs. The clinical suspicion, an early diagnosis, and aggressive treatment are essential to prevent complications and death.
Acacia seyal and Terminalia brownii associated airborne contact dermatitis (Dukhan dermatitis)
Authors: Kibar Ozturk Melike , Zindancı Ilkin , Zemheri Ebru
Published: August 2018

Taking scented smoke baths (Dukhan) is a universal custom among African women who indulge in it for pleasure, cleanliness, health, and for restoration after childbirth. The woods used in this procedure are usually Acacia seyal and Terminalia brownii. This report is a case series of 11 women with brown‐erythematous excoriated papules, plaques, and lichenification confined to the sites of scented smoke baths. They were diagnosed with airborne contact dermatitis on the basis of patient history, existence of dust agents, the morphology and distribution of the lesions, the results of epicutaneous tests (repeated open application test), and avoidance of further exposure leading to recovery from dermatitis.
Differences in UK healthcare professionals’ knowledge, attitude and practice towards infliximab and insulin glargine biosimilars
Authors: Aladul Mohammed I , Fitzpatrick Raymond W , Chapman Stephen R
Published: August 2018

Objectives

To investigate knowledge and attitudes of different healthcare professionals in UK towards infliximab and insulin glargine biosimilars

Methods

UK medical consultants/registrars, nurses and pharmacists participated in anonymised, self-administered web-based survey distributed by professional associations.

Key findings

There were 234 respondents: medical consultants/registrars (150), nurses (58) and pharmacists (26). 76% of medical consultants/registrars, 84% of pharmacists and 53% of nurses understood what biosimilars were. Medical consultants/registrars and pharmacists had safety and efficacy concerns when switching patients compared to initiation. Nurses had similar levels of safety and efficacy concerns about initiation.

Conclusion

Healthcare professionals were more comfortable with the initiation of biosimilars than switching current patients. Medical consultants/registrars and pharmacists were more informed than nurses.
Genetic regulation of antibody responsiveness to immunization in substrains of BALB/c mice
Authors: Poyntz Hazel C , Jones Angela , Jauregui Ruy , Young Wayne , Gestin Aurélie , Mooney Anna , Lamiable Olivier , Altermann Eric , Schmidt Alfonso , Gasser Olivier , Weyrich Laura , Jolly Christopher J , Linterman Michelle A , Gros Graham Le , Hawkins Edwin D , Forbes‐Blom Elizabeth
Published: August 2018

Antibody‐mediated immunity is highly protective against disease. The majority of current vaccines confer protection through humoral immunity, but there is high variability in responsiveness across populations. Identifying immune mechanisms that mediate low antibody responsiveness may provide potential strategies to boost vaccine efficacy. Here, we report diverse antibody responsiveness to unadjuvanted as well as adjuvanted immunization in substrains of BALB/c mice, resulting in high and low antibody response phenotypes. Furthermore, these antibody phenotypes were not affected by changes in environmental factors such as the gut microbiota composition. Antigen‐specific B cells following immunization had a marked difference in capability to class switch, resulting in perturbed IgG isotype antibody production. In vitro, a B‐cell intrinsic defect in the regulation of class‐switch recombination was identified in mice with low IgG antibody production. Whole genome sequencing identified polymorphisms associated with the magnitude of antibody produced, and we propose candidate genes that may regulate isotype class‐switching capability. This study highlights that mice sourced from different vendors can have significantly altered humoral immune response profiles, and provides a resource to interrogate genetic regulators of antibody responsiveness. Together these results further our understanding of immune heterogeneity and suggest additional research on the genetic influences of adjuvanted vaccine strategies is warranted for enhancing vaccine efficacy.
Anti‐Corruption and Corporate Tax Burden: Evidence from China
Authors: Chen Yunsen , Zheng Dengjin , Li Peixin , Wang Weimin
Published: August 2018

We examine whether the Chinese government's anti‐corruption enforcement reduces corporate tax burdens. Using a difference‐in‐difference approach, we find tax burdens of firms located in corrupt political leaders’ jurisdictions are lower after these leaders were deposed. An analysis of two tax policy changes shows that the reduction in tax burden is more pronounced when corrupt politicians had more power in levying taxes.
A realization of excellent piezoelectricity and good thermal stability in CaBi2Nb2O9: Pseudo phase boundary
Authors: Liu Gang , Wang Dan , Wu Chao , Wu Jiagang , Chen Qiang
Published: August 2018

Phase boundaries (PBs) are known to contribute to the outstanding performances of lead‐based and lead‐free materials. However, a lack of PBs restricts the promotion of piezoelectric performance in bismuth layer‐structured ferroelectrics (BLSFs). In this work, a pseudo PB, ie, pseudotetragonal distortion (regulated by Ce), is proposed to promote the piezoelectric properties of CaBi2Nb2O9‐based ceramics, and an excellent piezoelectric constant (d33) of 20.2 pC/N with a high Curie temperature of 923°C is obtained. Verified Ce incorporation into the (Bi2O2)2+ layer alters the environment of the (Bi2O2)2+ layer, thereby influencing the atomic displacement in the Nb‐O octahedron and modulating the theoretical spontaneous polarization (Ps). Strengthening of the pseudotetragonal distortion is favorable to the polarization switching, and maintains the theoretical Ps of ceramics at a high level, thus realizing the promotion of d33. Furthermore, pseudotetragonal distortion guarantees good thermal depoling performance of the ceramic, which remains at 89.6% (18.1 pC/N) of its initial d33 after depoling at 875°C. This work provides clear guidance on obtaining high d33 and good thermal stability in BLSFs.
Flash sintering with current rate: A different approach
Authors: Kumar M K Punith , Yadav Devinder , Lebrun Jean‐Marie , Raj Rishi
Published: August 2018

The original flash sintering experiment was carried out by applying an electric field, and switching to current control at the onset of the flash, signaled by a rise in conductivity. Here, we consider experiments where the experiment is controlled from the very start, by injecting current, which is increased at a constant rate. The current rates are varied from 50 mA/min to 5000 mA/min. The experiment is continued until, in all cases, the current density reaches 100 mA/mm2. The total duration of the experiment ranged from approximately 7 seconds to 700 seconds. The following comparisons to the earlier voltage‐to‐current experiments are noted: (a) in both instances, the onset of the flash is signaled by an unusual rise in conductivity; however, since the power supply remains in the current control mode, the increase in conductivity is manifested by a drop in the voltage generated across the specimen; (b) the blackbody radiation model is modified to include the energy absorbed in specific heat, in order to determine the time‐dependent change in temperature as the current is increased—this correction is particularly significant at the very high current rates; (c) sintering occurs continuously, reaching full density, in all instances, when the current density reaches ~100 mA/mm2; and (d) these early experiments suggest that the current‐rate experiments yield fine‐grained microstructure across the entire gauge section of the dog‐bone specimen, presumably because the highly transient conditions of voltage‐to‐current flash experiments are sidestepped. The experiments were carried out on 3 mol% yttria‐stabilized zirconia.
Estimating the population size of lemurs based on their mutualistic food trees
Authors: Herrera James P. , Borgerson Cortni , Tongasoa Lydia , Andriamahazoarivosoa Pascal , Rasolofoniaina B. J. Rodolph , Rakotondrafarasata Eli R. , Randrianasolo J. L. Rado Ravoavy , Johnson Steig E. , Wright Patricia C. , Golden Christopher D.
Published: August 2018

Aim

Species’ distributions and abundances are primarily determined by the suitability of environmental conditions, including climate and interactions with sympatric species, but also increasingly by human activities. Modelling tools can help in assessing the extinction risk of affected species. By combining species distribution modelling of abiotic and biotic niches with population size modelling, we estimated the abundance of 19 lemur taxa in three regions, especially focusing on 10 species that are considered Endangered or Critically Endangered.

Location

Madagascar.

Taxa

Lemurs (Primates) and angiosperm trees.

Methods

We used climate data, field samples, and published occurrence data on trees to construct species distribution models (SDM) for lemur food tree species. We then inferred the SDMs for lemurs based on the probability of occurrence of their food trees as well as climate. Finally, we used tree SDMs, topography, distance to the forest edge, and field estimates of lemur population density to predict lemur abundance in general linear models.

Results

The SDMs of lemur food trees were stronger predictors of the occurrence of lemurs than climate. The predicted probability of presence of food trees, slope, elevation, and distance from the forest edge were significant correlates of lemur density. We found that sixteen species had minimum estimated abundances greater than 10,000 individuals over >1,000km2. Three lemur species are especially threatened, with less than 2,500 individuals predicted for Cheirogaleus sibreei, and heavy hunting pressure for the relatively small populations of Indri indri and Hapalemur occidentalis.

Main conclusions

Biotic interactors were important variables in SDMs for lemurs, allowing refined estimates of ranges and abundances. This paper provides an analytical workflow that can be applied to other taxonomic groups to substantiate estimates of species’ vulnerability to extinction.
Community‐based mealtime management for adolescents with anorexia nervosa: A qualitative study of clinicians’ perspectives and experiences
Authors: Watt Jaclyn , Dickens Geoffrey L.
Published: August 2018

Background and Objective

Community‐based mealtime management is an intensive, focused, and time‐limited intervention for young people with an eating disorder which aims to support refeeding at home and thus prevent hospital admission. Little is known about clinicians’ experiences of delivering this intervention. We aimed to explore mental health clinicians’ perspectives on community mealtime management with children and adolescents diagnosed with an eating disorder.

Methods

A qualitative design was used. Semistructured interviews were conducted with six mental health clinicians with experience of delivering or referral for the intervention. Interview recordings were transcribed and subjected to a thematic analysis.

Results

Analysis resulted in identification of three themes: (a) technical aspects of mealtime management, (b) emotional aspects of mealtime management, and (c) a mixed zone of uncertainty around the use of dietary supplements. Overall, participants believed mealtime management to be a valuable intervention.

Conclusions

Findings highlight the perceived need for more formal training for clinicians undertaking mealtime management, and the positive impact this could potentially have on their practice. Clinicians’ emotion regulation during intervention delivery was perceived to be important. There was a perceived need for greater adherence to protocols but an acceptance that flexibility was also required.
Local air velocity, a key factor governing the Raclette cheese mass loss in an industrial ripening room
Authors: Corrieu G. , Leclercq‐Perlat M. N. , Picque D. , Canal J. P. , Perret B.
Published: August 2018

Raclette cheeses arranged in racks were ripened in an industrial ripening room under temperature, relative humidity, and air circulation control. Cheese mass loss was investigated via two ripening trials and by weighing nine racks located at chosen places in the ripening room. Air velocity (varying from 0.06 to 0.48 m/s as a function of the distance of the textile ventilation ducts that ensure air circulation) had the greatest effect on mass loss (changing from 4.1 to 8.7% of the initial mass). The higher the air velocity was, the greater the cheese mass loss was. The racks at the top of the stacks significantly exhibited the highest mass loss. Linear and exponential relationships between mean cheese mass loss rate and air velocity are proposed. Compared to continuous ventilation, time‐based sequential ventilation led to a mean reduction of mass loss of about 0.75% and confirmed a reduction in energy consumption (about 42%).

Practical applications

The control of air circulation in industrial cheese ripening rooms is difficult, and considerable heterogeneities in air velocity are often observed. The higher the air velocity is, the greater the cheese mass loss will be, so it is important to know the air velocity distribution inside the ripening room and to obtain and maintain air velocities close to 0.08 m/s, thus favoring homogeneous cheese mass loss. Knowledge of the variations in cheese mass loss as a function of the ripening conditions and of the changes in air velocity must be improved so that cheese‐makers can limit mass loss while maintaining ripened cheese quality, as well as significantly increasing cheesemaking yield.

Opting for sequential ventilation (a time or temperature‐based process) at the industrial cheese ripening scale can provide economic benefits by reducing energy consumption and decreasing cheese mass loss.