bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
#colorectalsurgery
Authors: Brady R R W , Chapman S J , Atallah S , Chand M , Mayol J , Lacy A M , Wexner S D
Published: September 2017

Background

The use of social media platforms among healthcare professionals is increasing. A Twitter social media campaign promoting the hashtag #colorectalsurgery was launched with the aim of providing a specialty-specific forum to collate discussions and science relevant to an engaged, global community of coloproctologists. This article reviews initial experiences of the early adoption, engagement and utilization of this pilot initiative.

Methods

The hashtag #colorectalsurgery was promoted via the online microblogging service Twitter across a 180-day interval. Data on all tweets containing the #colorectalsurgery hashtag were analysed using online analytical tools. Data included total number of tweets, number of views, and user engagement since registration and launch of the campaign. Content of tweet and user demographic analysis was undertaken.

Results

The number of tweets using #colorectalsurgery grew rapidly following the launch on 24 April 2016; #colorectalsurgery was used in 15 708 tweets, which resulted in 65 398 696 impressions and involved 1863 individual Twitter accounts. Increased volumes of #colorectalsurgery tweets were noted in association with the timing of three major international colorectal surgical conferences, and geographical trends were noted. Some 88·4 per cent of all posts were by male users. The top 25 users by volume of #colorectalsurgery tweets had considerable influence and posted 8023 tweets (51·1 per cent).

Conclusion

Online global communities formed via healthcare-related hashtags, such as #colorectalsurgery, unify social media posts, scientists, surgeons and authors who have an interest in coloproctology. Furthermore, they facilitate greater connectivity among geographically separate users.
Fabrication of Photocontrolled Surfaces for Oil/Water Separation through Sulfur(VI) Fluoride Exchange
Authors: Zhu Haiguang , Chen Dongyun , Li Najun , Xu Qingfeng , Li Hua , He Jinghui , Wang Hua , Wu Peng , Lu Jianmei
Published: September 2017

Smart surfaces with controllable wettability have attracted substantial interest owing to the potential use of these materials for the separation of oil from oily water caused by frequent oil‐spill accidents. Because there are few separation materials on the market that are capable of switching between hydrophobicity and hydrophilicity, this work reports an efficient and low‐cost method to fabricate a photoresponsive membrane through the sulfur(VI) fluoride exchange reaction (SuFEx) between poly(4‐vinylphenol sulfofluoridate) and (E)‐1‐(4‐(tert‐butoxy)phenyl)‐2‐(4‐(trifluoromethoxy)phenyl)diazene. The resulting material displays switchable wettability between hydrophobic and hydrophilic states when subjected to ultraviolet or visible irradiation. This membrane can be recycled (greater than five times) and features superior efficiency (up to 97.9 %) for the separation of oils that have both higher and lower densities than water. This work is the first proof‐of‐concept application of SuFEx to fabricate functional materials for environmental remediation.
The Cancer of the Bladder Risk Assessment (COBRA) score: Estimating mortality after radical cystectomy
Authors: Welty Christopher J. , Sanford Thomas H. , Wright Jonathan L. , Carroll Peter R. , Cooperberg Matthew R. , Meng Maxwell V. , Porten Sima P.
Published: September 2017

BACKGROUND

Risk stratification of patients with urothelial carcinoma of the bladder (UCB) after cystectomy has important clinical and research implications. The authors assessed the relative effect of tumor stage and lymph node status on cancer‐specific survival (CSS) after cystectomy and developed a simplified risk‐assessment tool.

METHODS

In total, 14,828 patients who underwent cystectomy with lymph node dissection for UCB were identified from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database (1988‐2011). The relative importance of tumor stage and lymph node status with regard to CSS was assessed using stratified Kaplan‐Meier and Cox proportional‐hazards analyses. The patients were split randomly into development and validation cohorts. Additional validation using overall survival was performed on 19,362 patients from the National Cancer Data Base. The Cancer of Bladder Risk Assessment (COBRA) tool was created using a Cox model incorporating age, tumor stage, and lymph node density. Performance was validated using observed versus expected survival plots and the Harrell concordance index.

RESULTS

Patients with muscle invasive (T2), lymph node‐positive disease had a survival curve similar to that in patients with extravesical (T3 and T4), lymph node‐negative disease (2‐year CSS, 67% and 70%, respectively). Each point increase in the COBRA score (range, 0‐7) was associated with a 1.61‐fold increase (95% confidence interval, 1.56‐fold to 1.65‐fold increase) in the risk of bladder cancer death in the development cohort. The model accurately stratified patients across risk levels in the development cohort and the 2 validation cohorts (C‐index, 0.712, 0.705, and 0.68, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

The COBRA score offers a straightforward, validated risk‐stratification tool that incorporates the relative contribution of tumor stage and lymph node involvement to patient prognosis after cystectomy for UCB. Cancer 2017;123:4574‐4582. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
Strategic recruitment of an ethnically diverse cohort of overweight survivors of breast cancer with lymphedema
Authors: Sturgeon Kathleen M. , Hackley Renata , Fornash Anna , Dean Lorraine T. , Laudermilk Monica , Brown Justin C. , Sarwer David B. , DeMichele Angela M. , Troxel Andrea B. , Schmitz Kathryn H.
Published: September 2017

BACKGROUND

Black women are more likely to experience adverse effects from cancer treatment such as lymphedema. Thus, black women may particularly benefit from research regarding interventions to improve lymphedema. Herein, the authors report the challenges and strategies related to the recruitment of minority survivors of breast cancer and to the recruitment of survivors of breast cancer with lymphedema into the Women In Steady Exercise Research (WISER) Survivor Clinical Trial.

METHODS

Subjects for this community‐based trial were recruited from the Philadelphia area through active (mailings) and passive (printed materials and Web site) recruitment strategies. In addition, education sessions coordinated through partner hospitals in communities with a predominantly minority population were conducted to increase awareness of lymphedema in survivors of breast cancer. Women who were interested in the study were screened for lymphedema via telephone questionnaire and invited to see a study‐related certified lymphedema therapist to confirm the presence of lymphedema.

RESULTS

Screening was conducted among 2295 women: 628 were eligible, 450 consented, and 351 were randomized. Minority women comprised 38% of the study population. Letters to women on state and hospital registries resulted in a 0.4% randomization rate; education sessions yielded a 10% randomization rate. The authors observed that approximately 23.6% of the study sample had no previous diagnosis of lymphedema.

CONCLUSIONS

The WISER Survivor Clinical Trial faced multiple recruitment challenges and used unique strategies to successfully enroll minority survivors of breast cancer into a lifestyle intervention. Cancer 2018;124:95‐104. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
Thyroid cancer mortality is higher in Filipinos in the United States: An analysis using national mortality records from 2003 through 2012
Authors: Nguyen Michelle‐Linh T. , Hu Jiaqi , Hastings Katherine G. , Daza Eric J. , Cullen Mark R. , Orloff Lisa A. , Palaniappan Latha P.
Published: September 2017

BACKGROUND

Well‐differentiated thyroid carcinoma has a favorable prognosis, but patients with multiple recurrences have drastically lower survival. Filipinos in the United States are known to have high rates of thyroid cancer incidence and disease recurrence. To the authors' knowledge, it is unknown whether Filipinos also have higher thyroid cancer mortality rates.

METHODS

The authors studied thyroid cancer mortality in Filipino, non‐Filipino Asian (NFA), and non‐Hispanic white (NHW) adults using US death records (2003‐2012) and US Census data. Age‐adjusted mortality rates and proportional mortality ratios (PMRs) were calculated. Sex, nativity status, age at death, and educational attainment also were examined.

RESULTS

The authors examined 19,940,952 deaths. The age‐adjusted mortality rates due to thyroid cancer were highest in Filipinos (1.72 deaths per 100,000 population; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 1.51‐1.95) compared with NFAs (1.03 per 100,000 population; 95% CI, 0.95‐1.12) and NHWs (1.17 per 100,000 population; 95% CI, 1.16‐1.18). Compared with NHWs, higher proportionate mortality was observed in Filipino women (3‐5 times higher) across all age groups, and among Filipino men, the PMR was 2 to 3 times higher in the subgroup aged >55 years. Filipinos who completed a higher educational level had a notably higher PMR (5.0) compared with their counterparts who had not (3.5).

CONCLUSIONS

Negative prognostic factors for thyroid cancer traditionally include age >45 years and male sex. The results of the current study demonstrate that Filipinos die of thyroid cancer at higher rates than NFA and NHW individuals of similar ages. Highly educated Filipinos and Filipino women may be especially at risk of poor thyroid cancer outcomes. Filipino ethnicity should be factored into clinical decision making in the management of patients with thyroid cancer.Cancer2017;123:4860‐7. ©2017 American Cancer Society.
Safety, Tolerability, Pharmacokinetics, and Pharmacodynamics of Domagrozumab (PF‐06252616), an Antimyostatin Monoclonal Antibody, in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Bhattacharya Indranil , Pawlak Sylvester , Marraffino Shannon , Christensen Jared , Sherlock Sarah P. , Alvey Christine , Morris Carl , Arkin Steven , Binks Michael
Published: September 2017

Safety, tolerability, anabolic effects, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of single ascending and multiple doses of domagrozumab, an antimyostatin monoclonal antibody, were assessed following intravenous (IV) and subcutaneous (SC) administration in healthy subjects. A range of single ascending dose levels between 1 and 40 mg/kg IV and multiple doses (3 doses) of 10 mg/kg IV were tested (n = 8 per cohort). Additionally, a 3 mg/kg SC (n = 8) cohort also received domagrozumab. Magnetic resonance imaging and whole‐body dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry imaging were conducted to investigate the anabolic effects of domagrozumab. Domagrozumab was well tolerated with no severe and 1 non–treatment‐related serious adverse event. The most commonly reported adverse events were headache (21 subjects) and fatigue, upper respiratory tract infections, and muscle spasms (10 subjects each). Domagrozumab demonstrated typical IgG1 pharmacokinetics, with slow SC absorption and slow clearance, low volume of distribution, and a long half‐life. Target engagement was observed with an increase in extent of myostatin modulation, plateauing at the 20 mg/kg IV dose. Downstream pharmacology following myostatin binding by domagrozumab was only observed in the 10 mg/kg single IV cohort (increase in whole‐body lean mass of 5.38% using dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry) and the 10 mg/kg repeat‐dose cohort (muscle volume increase of 4.49% using magnetic resonance imaging).
Effects of Self‐Assembled Monolayer Modification of Nickel Oxide Nanoparticles Layer on the Performance and Application of Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Wang Qin , Chueh Chu‐Chen , Zhao Ting , Cheng Jiaqi , Eslamian Morteza , Choy Wallace C. H. , Jen Alex K.‐Y.
Published: September 2017

Entirely low‐temperature solution‐processed (≤100 °C) planar p‐i‐n perovskite solar cells (PSCs) offer great potential for commercialization of roll‐to‐roll fabricated photovoltaic devices. However, the stable inorganic hole‐transporting layer (HTL) in PSCs is usually processed at high temperature (200–500 °C), which is far beyond the tolerant temperature (≤150 °C) of roll‐to‐roll fabrication. In this context, inorganic NiOx nanoparticles (NPs) are an excellent candidate to serve as the HTL in PSCs, owing to their excellent solution processability at room temperature. However, the low‐temperature processing condition is usually accompanied with defect formation, which deteriorates the film quality and device efficiency to a large extent. To suppress this setback, we used a series of benzoic acid selfassembled monolayers (SAMs) to passivate the surface defects of the NiOx NPs and found that 4‐bromobenzoic acid could effectively play the role of the surface passivation. This SAM layer reduces the trap‐assisted recombination, minimizes the energy offset between the NiOx NPs and perovskite, and changes the HTL surface wettability, thus enhancing the perovskite crystallization, resulting in more stable PSCs with enhanced power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 18.4 %, exceeding the control device PCE (15.5 %). Also, we incorporated the above‐mentioned SAMs into flexible PSCs (F‐PSCs) and achieved one of the highest PCE of 16.2 % on a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrate with a remarkable power‐per‐weight of 26.9 W g−1. This facile interfacial engineering method offers great potential for the large‐scale manufacturing and commercialization of PSCs.
Structural heterogeneity affects raptor assemblages and niche characteristics in mixed‐grass ecosystems
Authors: Atuo Fidelis A. , O'Connell Timothy J.
Published: September 2017

Landscape function is largely determined by landscape structure. Evidence suggests that landscape heterogeneity often benefits generalists over sympatric specialists. The scale at which animals perceive that heterogeneity likely varies across species and could play an important role in determining the species assemblages supported by different landscapes. In this study, we investigated the relative importance of landscape heterogeneity in the structuring of raptor assemblages in mixed‐grass prairie. We compared niche breadth and overlap of 14 species in two landscapes that differed in heterogeneity. We used a modified line transect approach and distance sampling to determine approximate locations of raptors and mapped these locations in aGIS. We then compared land cover in buffered areas around detection locations to randomly selected locations at different scales. We calculated Outlying Mean Index to quantify niche breadth and compare among species. Species composition was similar in both landscapes, but niche characteristics differed according to heterogeneity. Raptor assemblages were better predicted by land cover composition in heterogeneous landscapes than by land cover configuration in homogenous landscapes. Outlying Mean Index analysis suggested that six of the 14 species occupied marginal niches and narrower niche breadths in homogeneous landscapes. None of these species demonstrated marginality but occupied broader niche breadths in heterogeneous landscapes. Our study provides evidence that heterogeneity is important in providing conditions necessary to support multiple, sympatric birds of prey in mixed‐grass prairie. Species overlapped broadly under heterogeneity but less in landscapes with larger patches of distinct land cover types.
Microemulsion‐Mediated Synthesis and Properties of Uniform Ln:CaWO4 (Ln = Eu, Dy) Nanophosphors with Multicolor Luminescence for Optical and CT Imaging
Authors: Laguna Mariano , Núñez Nuria O. , Garcia Francisco J. , Corral Ariadna , Parrado‐Gallego Ángel , Balcerzyk Marcin , Becerro Ana I. , Ocaña Manuel
Published: September 2017

A new room‐temperature method has been developed that yields, for the first time in the literature, uniform and well‐dispersed CaWO4 nanospindles. This method is based on the use of microemulsions consisting of aqueous solutions of Ca2+ and WO42– precursors, cyclohexane as the organic medium, Triton X‐100 as the surfactant, and n‐octanol as the cosurfactant. We show that the formation of uniform nanospindles requires a restrictive set of experimental conditions. These particles crystallize into the tetragonal CaWO4 phase and emit blue–green luminescence when excited by UV radiation. The reported method is also useful for doping the CaWO4 spindles with Eu3+ or Dy3+ cations, resulting in multicolor emissions (red for Eu3+; white for Dy3+). The luminescence is much stronger when excited through a WO42––Ln3+ (Ln = Eu or Dy) energy‐transfer band than through the f–f transition bands of the Ln3+ cations. Interestingly, because of the white luminescence associated with the Dy:CaWO4 nanophosphor, it might be useful for LED technologies. Luminescence dynamics and energy‐transfer efficiency have been analyzed to determine the optimum phosphors. Finally, the Eu‐doped CaWO4 nanospindles also showed excellent X‐ray attenuation efficacy, which confers double functionality to this material as both a luminescence bioprobe and as a contrasting agent for X‐ray computed‐tomography.
Carbon Dioxide as Feedstock in Selective Oxidation of Propane
Authors: Kang Jungshik , Czaja Andrew D. , Guliants Vadim V.
Published: September 2017

Carbon dioxide is a promising nonconventional oxidant for catalytic dehydrogenation of lower alkanes to olefins. The lower catalytic activity of CO2 compared to oxygen, which is typically used in oxidative dehydrogenation (ODH), also means that more reactive olefins are less likely to undergo undesirable combustion in the presence of CO2. Supported vanadia catalysts were synthesized by incipient wetness impregnation of silica supports, and by varying the surface coverage of VOx species by means of sodium on the silica surface, the nature of the catalyst was investigated. Promotion with Na cations significantly improved the dispersion of surface VOx species but resulted in the formation of surface Na metavanadate or another reduced V3+/V4+ phase, which lacked catalytic activity in propane ODH in the presence of CO2.
Coast formation in an Arctic area due to glacier surge and retreat: The Hornbreen–Hambergbreen case from Spistbergen
Authors: Grabiec M. , Ignatiuk D. , Jania J.A. , Moskalik M. , Głowacki P. , Błaszczyk M. , Budzik T. , Walczowski W.
Published: September 2017

Glacierised coasts undergo faster geomorphic processes than unglaciated ones. We have studied changes of the coastal area in southern Svalbard with the glacier bridge between Torell Land and Sørkapp Land since the beginning of the 20th century. The existence of a continuous subglacial depression beneath the Hornbreen–Hambergbreen glacier system has been debated since the 1960s, with inconclusive results. In this study we assess both the subglacial topography and the bathymetry of Hornsund Fjord and Hambergbukta bay. This included ~40 km of radar surveys over the glacial system and sea depth sounding. The extent of the glaciers from maps and satellite images together with digital terrain models and surface elevation data based on GPS profiling were used to analyse geometry changes of the glacier surfaces. The results confirm the existence of a continuous subglacial depression below sea level (c. 40 m deep) between Hornsund and the Barents Sea. The Hornbreen‐Hambergbreen system has changed in shape over the past century, reflecting its dynamic origin and activity, also exemplified by the sequential surges identified since 1899. There was a pre‐surge build‐up event of Flatbreen causing a surge and subsequent lowering of the Hornbreen‐Hambergbreen frontal parts by the 1960s. After, the entire surface lowered, albeit with a delay in the Hornbreen terminal zone. Since the year 2000, Hornbreen terminus has retreated at an average rate of 106 m a−1; ~50% faster than that of Hambergbreen. If the retreat continues at the 2000–2015 average rate, the ice bridge between Hornsund and Hambergbukta will be broken sometime between 2055 and 2065 and the Hornsund strait will separate Sørkapp Land from the Spitsbergen island. The processes and events described in this study, particularly the effects of the glacier surge, may provide a model for changes likely to occur in other coastal glaciated regions experiencing rapid change. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hypersensitivity to low intensity fearful faces in autism when fixation is constrained to the eyes
Authors: Lassalle Amandine , Åsberg Johnels Jakob , Zürcher Nicole R. , Hippolyte Loyse , Billstedt Eva , Ward Noreen , Lemonnier Eric , Gillberg Christopher , Hadjikhani Nouchine
Published: September 2017

Previous studies that showed decreased brain activation in people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) viewing expressive faces did not control that participants looked in the eyes. This is problematic because ASD is characterized by abnormal attention to the eyes. Here, we collected fMRI data from 48 participants (27 ASD) viewing pictures of neutral faces and faces expressing anger, happiness, and fear at low and high intensity, with a fixation cross between the eyes. Group differences in whole brain activity were examined for expressive faces at high and low intensity versus neutral faces. Group differences in neural activity were also investigated in regions of interest within the social brain, including the amygdala and the ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC). In response to low intensity fearful faces, ASD participants showed increased activation in the social brain regions, and decreased functional coupling between the amygdala and the vmPFC. This oversensitivity to low intensity fear coupled with a lack of emotional regulation capacity could indicate an excitatory/inhibitory imbalance in their socio‐affective processing system. This may result in social disengagement and avoidance of eye‐contact to handle feelings of strong emotional reaction. Our results also demonstrate the importance of careful control of gaze when investigating emotional processing in ASD. Hum Brain Mapp 38:5943–5957, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Concluding Thoughts
Authors: Zilvinskis John , Borden Victor M. H.
Published: September 2017

Constructively engaging with learning analytics enables institutions of higher education to support students in more personalized, empowering ways, but to do so requires sustained levels of collaboration not commonly found within colleges and universities. Themes that emerge from the chapters of this volume provide useful principles for leveraging available technologies to meet the challenges of educating increasingly diverse learners.
Natural immunoglobulin M initiates an inflammatory response important for both hepatic ischemia reperfusion injury and regeneration in mice
Authors: Marshall Keely , Jin Junfei , Atkinson Carl , Alawieh Ali , Qiao Fei , Lei Biao , Chavin Kenneth D. , He Songqing , Tomlinson Stephen
Published: September 2017

Complement plays a role in both hepatic ischemia reperfusion (IR) injury (IRI) and liver regeneration, but it is not clear how complement is activated in either process. We investigated the role of self‐reactive immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies in activating complement after hepatic IR and liver resection. Natural IgM antibodies that recognize danger‐associated molecular patterns (neoepitopes) activate complement following both hepatic IR and liver resection. Antibody‐deficient Rag1–/– mice were protected from hepatic IRI, but had increased hepatic injury and an impaired regenerative response after 70% partial hepatectomy (PHx). We identified two IgM monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) that specifically reversed the effect of Rag1 deficiency in both models; B4 (recognizes Annexin IV) and C2 (recognizes subset of phospholipids). Focusing on the B4‐specific response, we demonstrated sinusoidal colocalization of IgM and C3d in Rag1–/– mice that were reconstituted with B4 mAb, and furthermore that the Annexin IV neoepitope is specifically and similarly expressed after both hepatic IR and PHx in wild‐type (WT) mice. A single‐chain antibody construct (scFv) derived from B4 mAb blocked IgM binding and reduced injury post‐IR in WT mice, although, interestingly, B4scFv did not alter regeneration post‐PHx, indicating that anti‐Annexin IV antibodies are sufficient, but not necessary, for the regenerative response in the context of an entire natural antibody repertoire. We also demonstrated expression of the B4 neoepitope in postischemic human liver samples obtained posttransplantation and a corollary depletion in IgM recognizing the B4 and C2 neoepitopes in patient sera following liver transplantation. Conclusion: These data indicate an important role for IgM in hepatic IRI and regeneration, with a similar cross‐species injury‐specific recognition system that has implications for the design of neoepitope targeted therapeutics. (Hepatology 2018;67:721‐735).
Transcranial Doppler: a stethoscope for the brain‐neurocritical care use
Authors: Robba Chiara , Cardim Danilo , Sekhon Mypinder , Budohoski Karol , Czosnyka Marek
Published: September 2017

Transcranial Doppler (TCD) ultrasonography is a noninvasive bedside monitoring technique that can evaluate cerebral blood flow hemodynamics in the intracranial arterial vasculature.

TCD allows assessment of linear cerebral blood flow velocity, with a high temporal resolution and is inexpensive, reproducible, and portable.

The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the most commonly used TCD derived signals and measurements used commonly in neurocritical care. We describe both basic (flow velocity, pulsatility index) and advanced concepts, including critical closing pressure, wall tension, autoregulation, noninvasive intracranial pressure, brain compliance, and cerebrovascular time constant; we also describe the clinical applications of TCD to highlight their utility in the diagnosis and monitoring of cerebrovascular diseases as the “stethoscope for the brain.”
The contribution of zooplankton to methane supersaturation in the oxygenated upper waters of the central Baltic Sea
Authors: Schmale Oliver , Wäge Janine , Mohrholz Volker , Wasmund Norbert , Gräwe Ulf , Rehder Gregor , Labrenz Matthias , Loick‐Wilde Natalie
Published: September 2017

We report on methane enrichments that were observed during summer in the upper water column of the Gotland Basin, central Baltic Sea. In the eastern part of the basin, methane concentrations just below the thermocline varied between 15 nM and 77 nM, in contrast to the western part where no methane enrichments could be detected. Stable carbon isotope ratios of methane (δ13C‐CH4 of −67.6‰) indicated its in situ biogenic origin from CO2 reduction, which was supported by clonal sequences that clustered with Methanomicrobiaceae, a family of methanogenic Archaea. Incubation experiments with a Temora longicornis dominated seston fraction obtained from the relevant depth showed a positive correlation between seston concentration and methane production rates. Our results, in combination with previous literature outcomes, suggest that the methane enrichment in the eastern basin might be sustained by a diet‐consumer relationship between the dinoflagellate Dinophysis norvegica and the copepod T. longicornis. However, our mass balance indicates that a local methane production of 110 pmol L−1 d−1 was needed to maintain the methane enrichment, and that the estimated production rate from our incubation experiments of 0.3 pmol CH4 d−1 per adult T. longicornis (about 1 pmol L−1 d−1) was too low to maintain the methane enrichment by zooplankton associated methane production only. These calculations also showed that methane was consumed below the thermocline and not transported into the upper‐ocean, suggesting that other sources in the mixed layer in the range of 95 pmol L−1 d−1 are needed to maintain the observed methane air–sea flux.
Using isotope labeling to partition sources of CO2 efflux in newly established mangrove seedlings
Authors: Ouyang Xiaoguang , Lee Shing Yip , Connolly Rod M.
Published: September 2017

Carbon dioxide (CO2) flux is a critical component of the global C budget. While CO2 flux has been increasingly studied in mangroves, better partitioning of components contributing to the overall flux will be useful in constraining C budgets. Little information is available on how CO2 flux may vary with forest age and conditions. We used a combination of 13C stable isotope labeling and closed chambers to partition CO2 efflux from the seedlings of the widespread mangrove Avicennia marina in laboratory microcosms, with a focus on sediment CO2 efflux in establishing forests. We showed that (1) above‐ground part of plants were the chief component of overall CO2 efflux; and (2) the degradation of sediment organic matter was the major component of sediment CO2 efflux, followed by root respiration and litter decomposition, as determined using isotope mixing models. There was a significant relationship between C isotope values of CO2 released at the sediment–air interface and both root respiration and sediment organic matter decomposition. These relative contributions of different components to overall and sediment CO2 efflux can be used in partitioning of the sources of overall respiration and sediment C mineralization in establishing mangroves.
Vertically challenged: How disease suppressesDaphniavertical migration behavior
Authors: Johnson Pieter T. J. , Stanton Daniel E. , Forshay Kenneth J. , Calhoun Dana M.
Published: September 2017

Parasitic infections are increasingly recognized as influential forces in the migratory behaviors of hosts ranging from butterflies to whales. In aquatic zooplankton, diel vertical migrations (DVMs) are among the most recurrent behaviors with implications for predator‐prey interactions, nutrient cycling, and energy flow, yet how parasitism affects such migrations remains an open question. Here, we tested the effects of sporangia cluster disease (SCD) on DVM of the large‐bodiedDaphnia pulicaria, which is often considered a key component of lake food webs. By collecting depth‐specific zooplankton samples across diel cycles, between years, and among lakes, we show that infection is associated with strong inhibition of host DVM; while allDaphniatended to occur deeper during the day, uninfectedDaphniaand especially gravid individuals migrated to shallower waters at night. In contrast, infected hosts—which could comprise 40% of the population—were more likely to remain deep regardless of time of day. Among infected hosts, the intensity of SCD (sporangia count per host) predicted the degree of DVM inhibition. These observations—coupled with lab‐based assays showing that infected hosts exhibited fewer swimming movements and persisted at lower depths than uninfected conspecifics—suggest that parasite‐induced inhibition of DVM is a “sickness behavior” resulting from increasing morbidity and energy depletion as the infection intensifies toward host death. Considering the importance of large‐bodiedDaphniaas regulators of water clarity and prey for fishes, parasite‐induced alterations of host migratory behavior have broad potential to affect the redistribution of energy and nutrients within lake ecosystems.
Profiling novel metabolic biomarkers for Parkinson's disease using in‐depth metabolomic analysis
Authors: Han Wei , Sapkota Shraddha , Camicioli Richard , Dixon Roger A. , Li Liang
Published: September 2017

Objective

To profile the amine/phenol submetabolome to determine potential metabolite biomarkers associated with Parkinson's disease (PD) and PD with incipient dementia.

Methods

At baseline of a 3‐wave (18‐month intervals) longitudinal study, serum samples were collected from 42 healthy controls and 43 PD patients. By wave 3 (year 3), 16 PD patients were diagnosed with dementia and were classified as PD with incipient dementia at baseline. Metabolomic profiling using dansylation isotope labeling liquid chromatography mass spectrometry was conducted to compare controls with the full PD, PD with no dementia, and PD with incipient dementia groups.

Results

Metabolomic analyses detected 719 common metabolites in 80% of the samples. Some were significantly altered in pairwise comparison of different groups (fold change of >1.2 or <0.83 with q < 0.05). We discriminated PD and controls by using a 5‐metabolite panel, vanillic acid, 3‐hydroxykynurenine, isoleucyl‐alanine, 5‐acetylamino‐6‐amino‐3‐methyluracil, and theophylline. The receiver operating characteristic curve produced an area‐under‐the‐curve value of 0.955 with 87.5% sensitivity and 93.0% specificity. In comparing PD with no dementia with PD with incipient dementia, we used an 8‐metabolite panel, His‐Asn‐Asp‐Ser, 3,4‐dihydroxyphenylacetone, desaminotyrosine, hydroxy‐isoleucine, alanyl‐alanine, putrescine [‐2H], purine [+O] and its riboside. This produced an area‐under‐the‐curve value of 0.862 with 80.0% sensitivity and 77.0% specificity.

Conclusions

The significantly altered metabolites can be used to differentiate (1) PD patients from healthy controls with high accuracy and (2) the stable PD with no dementia group from those with incipient dementia. Following further validation in larger cohorts, these metabolites could be used for both discrimination and establishing prognosis in PD. © 2017 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Sarcolemmal excitability in the myotonic dystrophies
Authors: Boland‐Freitas Robert , Lee James , Howells James , Liang Christina , Corbett Alastair , Nicholson Garth , Ng Karl
Published: September 2017

Introduction: Chloride conductance disturbances contribute to sarcolemmal dysfunction in myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) and type 2 (DM2). Studies using muscle velocity recovery cycles (MVRCs) suggest Na+/K+‐adenosine triphosphatase activation becomes defective in advanced DM1. We used MVRCs to investigate muscle excitability in DM1 and DM2. Methods: MVRCs were measured for patients with mild (n = 8) and advanced (n = 11) DM1, DM2 (n = 4), and normal controls (n = 30). Results: Residual supernormality after multiple conditioning stimuli was increased in DM2 and advanced DM1. Advanced DM1 was distinguished by increases in muscle relative refractory period (MRRP) and reduced early supernormality as well as peak amplitude decrements for the first and last responses in train during repetitive stimulation. Discussion: Prolongation of the MRRP indicates that depolarization of the resting muscle membrane potential occurs in advanced DM1, with possible implications for future therapeutic approaches. Muscle Nerve 57: 595–602, 2018
Synthesis of π‐conjugated network polymers based on fluoroarene and fluorescent units via direct arylation polycondensation and their porosity and fluorescent properties
Authors: Hayashi Shotaro , Togawa Yuki , Yamamoto Shin‐Ichi , Koizumi Toshio , Nishi Koji , Asano Atsushi
Published: September 2017

In this study, we report the synthesis of π‐conjugated network polymers including unique fluorescent units via palladium‐catalyzed direct (CH) arylation polycondensation of 1,2,4,5‐tetrafluorobenzene with tetrabromoarenes. The obtained polymers, including tetraphenylethene (TPE) or pyrene (PYR) units, had microporous structures with the specific Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface areas at 508 and 824 m2 g−1, respectively. These polymers possessed narrow pore distributions (<15 nm). These analyses supported that π‐conjugated microporous polymers (CMPs) were synthesized by the direct arylation. Similar to the result of BET surface areas, carbon capture capacity of CMP based on PYR unit was higher than that of CMP based on TPE unit. Because the nitrogen capture capacity of these CMPs was low (≈ 0), selectivity of carbon dioxide adsorption was very high. TPE is a typical aggregation‐induced emission unit but PYR is an aggregation‐caused quenching (ACQ) molecule. The incorporation of TPE unit into the microporous polymer gave green‐colored fluorescence (Φ = 0.12). The polymer including PYR units also showed the green‐colored fluorescence (Φ = 0.05) even though the ACQ property. These synthesized CMPs exhibited characteristic solvatofluorochromism. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2017, 55, 3862–3867
Does the lower stratosphere provide predictability for month‐ahead wind electricity generation in Europe?
Authors: Beerli Remo , Wernli Heini , Grams Christian M.
Published: September 2017

Wind power is playing an increasingly important role in Europe's electricity generation. Accurate forecasts of wind‐power output on various spatial and temporal scales are therefore of high interest for the energy industry. However, predictability of near‐surface wind on subseasonal time‐scales has received relatively little attention. The stratosphere is an important source of subseasonal predictability in winter. Here, we study the implications of the lower stratospheric circulation for month‐ahead wind electricity generation in Europe in winter. Using ERA‐Interim reanalysis and the novel wind‐power dataset Renewables.ninja, we demonstrate a strong relationship between the lower stratospheric circulation and month‐ahead wind electricity generation in different parts of Europe in the period 1985–2014. This relationship exists due to episodes of troposphere–stratosphere coupling, which lead to prolonged periods of either the positive or negative phase of the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO). Since these persistent NAO periods are associated with strong surface wind anomalies, they have an important impact on wind electricity generation, in particular in Northern Europe. The state of the lower stratospheric circulation also determines the exact latitudinal position of these prolonged NAO patterns, with contrasting implications for wind electricity generation in specific countries. Using simple statistical forecasts, we show that the observed relationship between the lower stratosphere and wind electricity generation can be used for skilful forecasts of month‐ahead wind electricity generation. Particularly high forecast skill is found when the circulation in the lower stratosphere differs strongly from its climatological mean. Anomalous states of the lower stratospheric circulation therefore provide windows of subseasonal‐range predictability for wind‐power output in many European countries.
Transboundary ‘hydro‐hegemony’: 10 years later
Authors: Warner Jeroen , Mirumachi Naho , Farnum Rebecca L. , Grandi Mattia , Menga Filippo , Zeitoun Mark
Published: September 2017

This article places the theorization and analysis of hydro‐hegemony in the context of the scholarship on transboundary water conflict and cooperation. We discuss critiques, developments, and debates in this domain over the past 10 years, focusing particularly on the contributions of the London Water Research Group, showing how thinking on the theorization and analysis of hydro‐hegemony—and hydropolitics—has moved beyond the state‐centricity, the tendency to see hegemony as solely negative, and the conceptually hegemonic potential of hydro‐hegemony itself. Various strands of international relations theory (realism, neo‐institutionalism, critical theory) have left their mark on the London School. Intense interaction between analysts and pragmatic practitioners is found to invite (or incite) eclecticism as well as promote vibrancy. WIREs Water 2017, 4:e1242. doi: 10.1002/wat2.1242

This article is categorized under:

Human Water > Water Governance
Hausdorff dimension of invariant measure of circle diffeomorphisms with a break point
Authors: KHANIN KONSTANTIN , KOCIĆ SAŠA
Published: September 2017

We prove that, for almost all irrational $\unicode[STIX]{x1D70C}\in (0,1)$, the Hausdorff dimension of the invariant measure of a $C^{2+\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FC}}$-smooth $(\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FC}\in (0,1))$ circle diffeomorphism with a break of size $c\in \mathbb{R}_{+}\backslash \{1\}$, with rotation number $\unicode[STIX]{x1D70C}$, is zero. This result cannot be extended to all irrational rotation numbers.
An approach towards the projectile trajectory during the oblique Steinheim meteorite impact by the interpretation of structural crater features and the distribution of shatter cones
Authors: BUCHNER E.
Published: September 2017

The distinct alignment of the Steinheim Basin and the Nördlinger Ries impact structures in SW Germany and the Central European tektite strewn field suggest ENE-directed trajectories of the Ries and Steinheim impacting bodies. From impact experiments, the asymmetry of the Steinheim crater and the arrangement of structural features therein are in good agreement with features produced during an oblique impact at 30° from the horizontal. The restriction of shatter cones to the eastern segment of the Steinheim Basin crater also suggests a west–east-directed trend of the impact direction, and supports previous models that favoured such impactor trajectory.
Are questionnaires reliable in diagnosing sleep-disordered breathing in university students?
Authors: Migacz E , Wichniak A , Kukwa W
Published: September 2017

Objective:

This study aimed to screen young adults for sleep-disordered breathing, and compare those with high and low risk for sleep-disordered breathing.

Methods:

A survey based on the Berlin questionnaire was completed by 330 university students, and the results were used to divide them into sleep-disordered breathing positive and sleep-disordered breathing negative groups. A representative group was selected from each cohort (positive group,n= 16; negative group,n= 21), and assessed with sleep study, ENT examination, the Nose Obstruction Symptom Evaluation scale, and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale.

Results:

Sleep-disordered breathing prevalence was 11.2 per cent in the questionnaire and 24 per cent according to the sleep study. The sleep-disordered breathing positive and negative groups significantly differed in terms of coexisting sleep-disordered breathing symptoms. There were no significant differences between the positive and negative groups with regard to sleep study parameters (apnoea/hypopnoea index, respiratory disturbance index, oxygen desaturation index, snoring intensity) and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale.

Conclusion:

Subjective and objective diagnostic tools revealed that sleep-disordered breathing is a common problem among young adults.
A (tidal-marine) boulder pavement in the late Cenozoic of Seymour Island, West Antarctica: contribution to the palaeogeographical and palaeoclimatic evolution of West Antarctica
Authors: Rocha-Campos Antonio C. , Kuchenbecker Matheus , Duleba Wania , Dos Santos Paulo Roberto , Canile Fernanda M.
Published: September 2017

We report here the discovery of a boulder pavement cropping out at the base of the Hobbs Glacier Formation (Miocene), on the northern sector of Seymour Island (Isla Marambio), West Antarctica, along the contact with the underlying La Meseta Formation (Eocene). The feature described has many points in common with boulder pavements developed in tidal-marine environments. The clasts of the pavement are mostly boulders and bear up to three sets of glacial striae on their bevelled truncated surfaces, but are not elongate parallel to them or bullet shaped. No diamictite body was identified associated with the boulder pavement. These features differ from those of boulder pavements described from terrestrially glaciated Cenozoic deposits and may indicate a shallow glaciomarine environment for the late Cenozoic of Seymour Island.
Avian pox in seabirds on Marion Island, southern Indian Ocean
Authors: Schoombie S. , Schoombie J. , Oosthuizen A. , Suleman E. , Jones M.G.W. , Pretorius L. , Dilley B.J. , Ryan P.G.
Published: September 2017

Albatrosses are among the most threatened groups of seabirds with the main land-based threats being alien invasive species, human disturbance and habitat degradation. Disease outbreaks in Antarctic and sub-Antarctic seabird populations are uncommon, but in the past few decades there has been an increase in reported cases. The sub-Antarctic Prince Edward Islands (46°S, 37°E) in the south-western Indian Ocean provide breeding grounds for many seabird species, including 44% of all wandering albatrosses (Diomedea exulans L.). In 2015, five wandering albatrosses and two penguins (Eudyptes chrysocome Forster and Aptenodytes patagonicus Miller) with pox-like lesions were observed on Marion Island, the larger of the two Prince Edward Islands. Despite intensive study of the wandering albatross population since the 1980s, the only previous records of such lesions are one case in 2006 and another in 2009 in white-chinned petrels (Procellaria aequinoctialis L.). Molecular and phylogenetic analysis of tissue samples from two albatross chicks confirmed the presence of avian pox virus (Avipoxvirus). This highlights the need for research into the diseases present on sub-Antarctic islands, for strict controls to limit the risk of accidental introduction of diseases through human activities and the need for effective conservation measures in the event of an outbreak.
The prevalence and factors associated with stunting among infants aged 6 months in a peri-urban South African community
Authors: Matsungo Tonderayi M , Kruger Herculina S , Faber Mieke , Rothman Marinel , Smuts Cornelius M
Published: September 2017

Objective

To determine the prevalence and factors associated with stunting in 6-month-old South African infants.

Design

This cross-sectional study was part of the baseline of a randomized controlled trial. Weight-for-length, length-for-age and weight-for-ageZ-scores were based on the WHO classification. Blood samples were analysed for Hb, plasma ferritin and soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR). Socio-economic, breast-feeding and complementary feeding practices were assessed by questionnaire.

Setting/Subjects

Infants aged 6 months (n750) from a peri-urban area of Matlosana Municipality, North West Province of South Africa.

Results

Stunting, underweight, wasting and overweight affected 28·5, 11·1, 1·7 and 10·1 % of infants, respectively. Exclusive breast-feeding to 6 months of age was reported in 5·9 % of the infants. Multivariable binary logistic regression showed that birth weight (OR=0·12; 95 % CI 0·07, 0·21,P<0·001) and maternal height (OR=0·94; 95 % CI 0·91, 0·98,P=0·001) were inversely associated with stunting; while male sex (OR=1·73; 95 % CI 1·10, 2·70,P=0·014) was associated with higher odds for stunting. Stunting was also associated with higher plasma sTfR (>8·3 mg/l) concentrations.

Conclusions

The association between stunting and lower birth weight, shorter maternal height and male sex reflects possibly the intergenerational origins of stunting. Therefore, interventions that focus on improving preconceptual and maternal nutritional status, combined with strategies to promote appropriate infant feeding practices, may be an important strategy to prevent stunting in vulnerable settings.