bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Postoperative Voiding Dysfunction: The Preferred Method for Catheterization
Authors: McDermott Colleen D. , Ryan Victoria , Pulver Ariel , Boutet Marianne
Published: November 2017

Objectives

Bladder drainage can be achieved by clean intermittent self-catheterization (CISC), transurethral indwelling catheterization (TIC), or with a suprapubic tube (SPT). The primary objective of this study was to determine patient preference for catheter type in the management of potential voiding dysfunction after pelvic organ prolapse (POP) surgery.

Methods

Between 2012 and 2016, patients scheduled for POP surgery were recruited into the study. Before surgery, patients were informed of the potential for postoperative voiding dysfunction and the catheter choices were discussed. Each patient's choice was recorded along with baseline information, surgery performed, and perioperative details. After surgery, voiding dysfunction, length of catheter use, scores on a catheter satisfaction questionnaire, as well as uroflowmetry and urine culture testing were assessed.

Results

Of those recruited to the study (N = 150), 6.7% chose CISC, 7.3% chose TIC, and 86% chose SPT. Catheter satisfaction score 1 week after surgery was significantly better for SPT compared with CISC and TIC (P = 0.005). In addition, at week 1, 33% of CISC, 25% of TIC, and 13% of SPT had a PVR of more than 30% (P = 0.002) on uroflowmetry, and 33% of CISC, 50% of TIC, and 24% of SPT had a positive urine culture (P = 0.05).

Conclusions

This study has shown that patients prefer SPT over CISC and TIC for management of voiding dysfunction after POP surgery. Use of SPT showed better satisfaction rates, better uroflowmetry results, and lower infection rates 1 week after surgery. Patient preference is an important factor in this decision and can help facilitate a clinical approach.
Assessing Fitness to Drive in Patients With Different Types of Dementia
Authors: Piersma Dafne , Fuermaier Anselm B.M. , De Waard Dick , Davidse Ragnhild J. , De Groot Jolieke , Doumen Michelle J.A. , Bredewoud Ruud A. , Claesen René , Lemstra Afina W. , Scheltens Philip , Vermeeren Annemiek , Ponds Rudolf , Verhey Frans , De Deyn Peter P. , Brouwer Wiebo H. , Tucha Oliver
Published: November 2017

Dementia is a risk factor for unsafe driving. Therefore, an assessment strategy has recently been developed for the prediction of fitness to drive in patients with the Alzheimer disease (AD). The aim of this study was to investigate whether this strategy is also predictive of fitness to drive in patients with non-AD dementia, that is, vascular dementia, frontotemporal dementia, and dementia with Lewy bodies. Predictors were derived from 3 types of assessment: clinical interviews, neuropsychological tests, and driving simulator rides. The criterion was the pass-fail outcome of an official on-road driving assessment. About half of the patients with non-AD dementia (n=34) failed the on-road driving assessment. Neuropsychological assessment [area under the curve (AUC)=0.786] was significantly predictive of fitness to drive in patients with non-AD dementia, however, clinical interviews (AUC=0.559) and driving simulator rides (AUC=0.404) were not. The fitness-to-drive assessment strategy with the 3 types of assessment combined (AUC=0.635) was not found to significantly predict fitness to drive in non-AD dementia. Different types of dementia require different measures and assessment strategies.
Characterization of biofilm formation by Enterococcus faecalis isolates derived from urinary tract infections in China
Authors: Zheng Jin-xin , Bai Bing , Lin Zhi-wei , Pu Zhang-ya , Yao Wei-ming , Chen Zhong , Li Duo-yun , Deng Xiang-bin , Deng Qi-wen , Yu Zhi-jian
Published: November 2017

Purpose. This study explored the prevalence and characteristics of Enterococcus faecalis biofilm formation by urinary tract infection (UTI) isolates in order to identify virulence factors associated with biofilm formation.

Methodology. A total of 113 E. faecalis isolates were collected from UTI patients in Shenzhen, China. The isolates were subjected to multilocus sequence typing based on housekeeping genes. Biofilms were detected by crystal violet staining and the expression levels of the E. faecalis genes were detected by quantitative real-time PCR.

Results/Key findings. The main sequence types (STs) were ST16 and ST179 with the ST16 isolates more likely to form strong biofilms than the ST179 isolates (P=0.008). Strong biofilm formation was more frequently detected in aggregation substance (agg)-positive (+) isolates than in negative (−) isolates (P=0.033). Biofilm formation was also more common in isolates containing enterococcal surface protein (esp), or cytolysin A (cylA)-positive (+) isolates than in isolates negative (−) for these virulence factors. Multivariate regression analysis indicated that cylA [odds ratio (OR), 7.143, P=0.012] was associated with weak biofilm formation, and that agg (OR, 4.471, P=0.004) was associated with strong biofilm formation. The expression of cylA was increased (8.75- to 23.05-fold) in weak biofilm, and the expression of agg was greatly elevated (11.99- to 439.10-fold) in strong biofilm isolates when compared to biofilm-negative isolates.

Conclusion. ST16 classification was positively associated with strong biofilm formation in E. faecalis as was agg, while cylA was associated with weak biofilm formation.
Crystal structure ofr-1,c-2-dibenzoyl-t-3,t-4-bis(2-nitrophenyl)cyclobutane
Authors: Velasco Ximello Manuel , Bernès Sylvain , Pérez-Benítez Aarón , Hernández Pareja Ulises , Mendoza Angel , Juárez Posadas Jorge R. , Vázquez Bravo Jaime
Published: November 2017

The condensation reaction of acetophenone (1-phenylethan-1-one) with 2-nitrobenzaldehyde in the molten state yielded the expected chalcone, (E)-3-(2-nitrophenyl)-1-phenylprop-2-en-1-one, and, unexpectedly, the title compound, C30H22N2O6, which results from thesynhead-to-head [2 + 2] cycloaddition of the chalcone. The molecular structure of the dimer shows that the four benzene rings of the substituents are oriented in such a way that potential steric hindrance is minimized, whilst allowing some degree of intermolecular π–π interactions for crystal stabilization. In the molecule, one nitro group is disordered over two positions, with occupancies for each part of 0.876 (7) and 0.127 (7).
Crystal structures of salen-type ligands 2-[(1E)-({1-(3-chlorophenyl)-2-[(E)-(2-hydroxybenzylidene)amino]propyl}imino)methyl]phenol and 2-[(1E)-({1-(4-chlorophenyl)-2-[(E)-(2-hydroxybenzylidene)amino]propyl}imino)methyl]phenol
Authors: Gayathri A. , Rajeswari K. , Vidhyasagar T. , Selvanayagam S.
Published: November 2017

The title compounds, C23H21ClN2O2, differ from each other only by the position of the Cl atom on the corresponding benzene ring:metarelative to the centralsp3C atom for (I) andparafor (II). In (I), the hydroxyphenyl rings are almost parallel, the dihedral angle between the mean planes being 9.2 (2)°, but in (II), the relative position of the ring is different, characterized by a dihedral angle of 48.5 (1)°. Compound (I) features intramolecular O—H...N and intermolecular C—H...O hydrogen bonds, while in (II), intramolecular O—H...N, C—H...N hydrogen bonds and weak intermolecular C—H...π interactions are observed. Compound (I) was refined as an inversion twin.
25 years of quality management research – outlines and trends
Authors: Carnerud Daniel
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore and describe how research on quality management (QM) has evolved historically. The study includes the complete digital archive of three academic journals in the field of QM. Thereby, a unique depiction of how the general outlines of the field as well as trends in research topics have evolved through the years is presented.

Design/methodology/approach

The study applies cluster and probabilistic topic modeling to unstructured data fromThe International Journal of Quality & Reliability Management,The TQM JournalandTotal Quality Management & Business Excellence. In addition, trend analysis using support vector machine is performed.

Findings

The study identifies six central, perpetual themes of QM research: control, costs, reliability and failure; service quality; TQM – implementation and performance; ISO – certification, standards and systems; Innovation, practices and learning and customers – research and product design. Additionally, historical surges and shifts in research focus are recognized in the study. From these trends, a decrease in interest in TQM and control of quality, costs and processes in favor of service quality, customer satisfaction, Six Sigma, Lean and innovation can be noted during the past decade. The results validate previous findings.

Originality/value

Of the identified central themes, innovation, practices and learning appears not to have been documented as a fundamental part of QM research in previous studies. Thus, this theme can be regarded as a new perspective on QM research and thereby on QM.
Understanding the success of private universities
Authors: Hossain Mohammad Alamgir , Hossain Md Moazzem , Chowdhury Tajmin Hossain
Published: November 2017

Purpose

A successful education system is a great asset for any society. However, what factors make an academic institution successful and how these factors interact with each other are not clear in literature. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to develop and validate a model that explains success of private universities which entails clarification on theoretical understanding and explains the relationships among relevant variables.

Design/methodology/approach

Variables from information systems success models and marketing theories have been adapted in the context of private universities to theorize a conceptual model. In order to validate the model, this study employed quantitative approach. Survey data, collected from 326 respondents, were analysed using partial least squares algorithm.

Findings

The results suggest that: “curriculum quality”, “teaching competence”, “service facility”, and “service delivery” provided by a private university are positively related to “perceived value (PV)”, while students’ perceived satisfaction (SPS) is dependent on “service facility”; PV and SPS drive to students’ “intention for continued education (ICE)”, and ICE eventually improves quality of students’ lives. Additionally, PV and SPS are interrelated. The mediating roles of PV and SPS are also identified.

Research limitations/implications

Empirical data analyses confirm that improving quality of life through continued education represents an insightful theoretical lens for investigating success in higher education. To become successful in education business, maintaining both academic quality and service quality are important for a private university because they lead to student satisfaction and the overall PV of education.

Originality/value

This study is the first initiative that develops and validates a success model of private universities. The findings provide some guidelines for top managers in higher education to maximize their abilities to understand customers’ expectations in both strategic and operational settings.
Model of the port performance metrics in ports by integration six sigma and system dynamics
Authors: Ridwan Asep , Noche Bernd
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to design a model of the port performance metrics for improving the quality in ports by integration of six sigma and system dynamics (SD) approach.

Design/methodology/approach

The port performance is measured by the sigma value (SV), the process capability indices (PCIs), and the cost of poor quality (COPQ) as the performance metrics. A port is a complex system that requires SD as an appropriate tool to simulate the model dynamically. The performance metrics focus on measuring the port performance in the entire flow of material in the cargo handling process.

Findings

With this model, the changing of the SV, the PCIs, and the COPQ can be identified and analyzed the results to improve the performance in ports. These metrics are utilized to eliminate “waste” in the cargo handling process at ports. This waste consists of lost and damaged cargo, equipment and transporter breakdown, and equipment and transporter delay time. The port performance metrics model can assess the causal relationships in ports as a complex system.

Originality/value

Studies on integration between the six sigma model and SD in ports are few and relatively limited. The port’s performance can be measured directly using the SV, the PCIs, and the COPQ in the simulation. The port performance metrics model will give the decision makers to make some scenarios to contribute for the optimization of performance in ports.
Monitoring the process quality for multistage systems with multiple characteristics
Authors: Pan Jeh-Nan , Li Chung-I , Hsu Jun-Wei
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a new approach for detecting the small sustained process shifts in multistage systems with correlated multiple quality characteristics.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors propose a new multivariate linear regression model for a multistage manufacturing system with multivariate quality characteristics in which both the auto-correlated process outputs and the correlations occurring between neighboring stages are considered. Then, the multistage multivariate residual control charts are constructed to monitor the overall process quality of multistage systems with multiple quality characteristics. Moreover, an overall run length concept is adopted to evaluate the performances of the authors’ proposed control charts.

Findings

In the numerical example with cascade data, the authors show that the detecting abilities of the proposed multistage residual MEWMA and MCUSUM control charts outperform those of Phase II MEWMA and MCUSUM control charts. It further demonstrates the usefulness of the authors’ proposed control charts in the Phase II monitoring.

Practical implications

The research results of this paper can be applied to any multistage manufacturing or service system with multivariate quality characteristics. This new approach provides quality practitioners a better decision making tool for detecting the small sustained process shifts in multistage systems.

Originality/value

Once the multistage multivariate residual control charts are constructed, one can employ them in monitoring and controlling the process quality of multistage systems with multiple characteristics. This approach can lead to the direction of continuous improvement for any product or service within a company.
Configuration of volume flexibility in Indian manufacturing firms: evidence from case studies
Authors: Mishra Ruchi
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore different drivers and volume flexibility strategies employed in manufacturing firms. It also examines contingent factors, which determine volume flexibility requirement in manufacturing firms.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a multi-case study approach, the study examines and analyses drivers, strategies and contingent factors that affect volume flexibility in four Indian manufacturing plants belonging to automobiles, auto ancillary, fashion apparel and electrical industry.

Findings

The empirical analysis suggests various drivers of volume flexibility and different strategies employed by firms to enhance flexibility. The study also illustrates various contingent factors that determine the need of volume flexibility in firms.

Research limitations/implications

The sample of the study is majorly confined to the northern region of India. Methodologically, the analysis is solely based on the qualitative data.

Practical implications

The study suggests practitioners to consider a range of contingent factors, while evaluating the need of volume flexibility in manufacturing plants. Rather than relying on a single strategy, a mix of strategies should be used to develop volume flexibility in firms.

Originality/value

The identification of a range of strategies employed by volume flexible firms as well as contingent factors that need to be evaluated before employing volume flexibility are the major contributions of this study.
Enigma of KAIZEN approach in manufacturing industry of Northern India – a case study
Authors: Singh Jagdeep , Singh Harwinder
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to uncover the significance of KAIZEN technique in manufacturing environments.

Design/methodology/approach

KAIZEN is a management approach focused on incremental improvements in operations. Different elements of KAIZEN are being utilized by manufacturing industry to improve the performance of current manufacturing system processes. This study attempts to evaluate the performance of different elements of KAIZEN in manufacturing industry of Northern India. The importance level of different elements of KAIZEN, important benefits achieved after successful implementation of KAIZEN approach and benefits occurred after implementation of different elements of KAIZEN have been identified. Questionnaire survey in the case company has been performed and the most important element of KAIZEN has been implemented.

Findings

Results explicitly depict that failure mode and effective analysis is the most important element of KAIZEN. Results indicate the net savings of rupees 422,208 annually after implementing KAIZEN technique in a case company.

Originality/value

The paper demonstrates the practical application of KAIZEN technique showing how it can bring real breakthroughs in saving cost in the manufacturing industry.
Understanding climate change adaptation in Africa: key considerations
Authors: Abraham Ernest Mensah
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to synthesise lessons from research on adaptation to demonstrate that African countries can explore the opportunities and challenges inherent in climate variability and change.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is a review work which synthesises lessons from relevant journal articles and other related documents. The literature was retrieved from Google and Google Scholar using search terms such as climate change, climate change and mitigation, climate change and mitigation in Africa, climate change adaptation and mitigation in Africa, climate change vulnerability, climate change impacts, among others. Various combinations of the search terms were also deployed. The journals were subjected to critical review and key lessons synthesised from them and reflections on their future implications in relation to climate risks and vulnerability presented.

Findings

Key lessons were synthesised and reflections on their future implications in relation to climate risks and vulnerability were presented. The evidence seems to suggest that countries in Africa recognise that it is time for them to take action on the impacts of climate change. The key lessons which emerge, going forward, are that climate change adaptation should be mainstreamed into development plans of nations. All efforts should be geared towards sustaining livelihoods of people. Key stakeholders also have a role to play in adaptation. The paper has indicated that although a lot has happened, there are areas that require strengthening and that should be the focus and priority of change and policy makers for the future.

Research limitations/implications

The paper is a synthesis and reflection of existing literature and it is possible that some of the dynamics may have changed since the paper was published.

Practical implications

The dynamics of climate change adaptation is understood. The approaches to adaptation are also explored. Areas worth prioritising in the discourse of adaptation studies have also been indicated.

Originality/value

The syntheses provided are the reflections of the author. The views of the researcher provide insights and understanding into the current adaptation debate.
Transdisciplinary approach to natural resource governance research: a conceptual paper
Authors: Yeboah-Assiamah Emmanuel , Muller Kobus , Domfeh Kwame Ameyaw
Published: November 2017

Purpose

Natural resources in contemporary times are mostly managed by a collaborative governance approach which hinges on complex institutional designs (rules, norms and strategies). Many studies have been designed and carried out to assess collaborative governance, and the various institutional designs underpinning them. The purpose of this paper is to unpack the methodological gaps in natural resource governance research (with emphasis on co-management) and to conceptualise the appropriateness of Transdisciplinary (TD) research approach.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper adopts a critical stage review of relevant theoretical and empirical literature on natural resource governance. It discusses the complexities inherent in natural resource governance and juxtaposes these with the inherent weaknesses in methodologies employed by existing studies on the concept. The authors make a case for a TD research methodology that links scientists, practitioners and society in a joint problem design and solution process.

Findings

The authors register a “fuzziness” of the collaborative governance phenomenon but observe a methodological gap in existing studies on the concept. This paper discusses the complexities inherent. The paper describes TD as a “tailor-made approach” to solving complex societal issues and makes a case for its adoption in natural resource governance studies.

Research limitations/implications

This standalone paper is largely conceptual and not linked to any primary data; this notwithstanding, it synthesizes from both empirical and theoretical literature which would help shape future research endeavours in natural resource governance context.

Practical implications

With TD study oriented towards an epistemologically flexible approach, perspectives from different social and academic actors are integrated in this expanding field of research to address societal problems.

Originality/value

The paper provides a conceptual framework designating how actors interact in the TD research process as well as a “four-phase” approach in carrying out a TD research.
Carbon tax, system marginal price and environmental policies on Smart Microgrid operation
Authors: Anastasiadis Anestis , Konstantinopoulos Stavros , Kondylis Georgios , Vokas Georgios A. , Salame Maya Julien
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to optimally operate a Smart Microgrid which is interconnected to the main grid so as to minimize expenditures associated with CO2 emissions. Microgrids could come into play to aid the network through CO2 emission reduction while increasing their efficiency through local generation. For this purpose, a Smart Microgrid incorporating Distributed Energy Resources (DER), especially Renewable Energy Sources (RES), is operated optimally while keeping the CO2 emissions in check in order to minimize the financial burden from emissions stemming from the carbon tax. Since the network is assumed to be interconnected with the main grid, there is a consideration of the expected emissions associated with the imported energy.

Design/methodology/approach

An economic/environmental dispatch problem is mathematically formulated using an objective function and the constraints that it is subject to. The methodology is applied on a typical 17-bus test distribution network, representing a Hellenic LV network. Various carbon tax rates and their impact on the system marginal price are examined, in terms of their effect on distributed generation (DG) and as a second step, the effect of imposing lower carbon tax rates for micro-sources with the goal of benefitting from their more eco-friendly generation capabilities. In order to assess that benefit, hourly grid emissions coefficients are derived based on actual grid data.

Findings

The CO2 tax refund policy towards the DG owners can lead to optimal coverage of consumers, optimal financial result both for the DG owners and the operator and greater DG integration within the smart grid.

Originality/value

Greater DG integration within the smart grid by using a CO2 tax refund policy.
Gravity inversion by the Multi‐HOmogeneity Depth Estimation method for investigating salt domes and complex sources
Authors: Chauhan Mahak Singh , Fedi Maurizio , Sen Mrinal K.
Published: November 2017

We present a non‐linear method to invert potential fields data, based on inverting the scaling function (τ) of the potential fields, a quantity that is independent on the source property, that is, the mass density in the gravity case or the magnetic susceptibility in the magnetic case. So, no a priori prescription of the density contrast is needed, and the source model geometry is determined independently on it. We assume Talwani's formula and generalise the Multi‐HOmogeneity Depth Estimation method to the case of the inhomogeneous field generated by a general two‐dimensional source. The scaling function is calculated at different altitudes along the lines defined by the extreme points of the potential fields, and the inversion of the scaling function yields the coordinates of the vertices of a multiple source body. Once the geometry is estimated, the source density is automatically computed from a simple regression of the scaling function of the gravity data versus that generated from the estimated source body with a unit density.

We solve the above non‐linear problem by the very fast simulated annealing algorithm. The best performance is obtained when some vertices are constrained by either reasonable bounds or exact knowledge. In the salt dome case, we assumed that the top of the body is known from seismic observations, and we solved for the lateral and bottom parts of the body. We applied the technique on three synthetic cases of complex sources and on the gravity anomalies over the Mors salt dome (Denmark) and the Godavari basin (India). In all these cases, the method performed very well in terms of both geometrical and source property definition.
Influence of subsurface injection on time‐lapse seismic: laboratory studies at seismic and ultrasonic frequencies
Authors: Szewczyk Dawid , Holt Rune M. , Bauer Andreas
Published: November 2017

Seismic monitoring of reservoir and overburden performance during subsurface CO2 storage plays a key role in ensuring efficiency and safety. Proper interpretation of monitoring data requires knowledge about the rock physical phenomena occurring in the subsurface formations. This work focuses on rock stiffness and elastic velocity changes of a shale overburden formation caused by both reservoir inflation induced stress changes and leakage of CO2 into the overburden. In laboratory experiments, Pierre shale I core plugs were loaded along the stress path representative for the in situ stress changes experienced by caprock during reservoir inflation. Tests were carried out in a triaxial compaction cell combining three measurement techniques and permitting for determination of (i) ultrasonic velocities, (ii) quasistatic rock deformations, and (iii) dynamic elastic stiffness at seismic frequencies within a single test, which allowed to quantify effects of seismic dispersion. In addition, fluid substitution effects connected with possible CO2 leakage into the caprock formation were modelled by the modified anisotropic Gassmann model. Results of this work indicate that (i) stress sensitivity of Pierre shale I is frequency dependent; (ii) reservoir inflation leads to the increase of the overburden Young's modulus and Poisson's ratio; (iii) in situ stress changes mostly affect the P‐wave velocities; (iv) small leakage of the CO2 into the overburden may lead to the velocity changes, which are comparable with one associated with geomechanical influence; (v) non‐elastic effects increase stress sensitivity of an acoustic waves; (iv) and both geomechanical and fluid substitution effects would create significant time shifts, which should be detectable by time‐lapse seismic.
Seminal vesicle‐rectal fistula: A review of an unusual complication following low anterior resection for rectal cancer
Authors: Dixon Steven , McCallum Iain J.D. , Dennison Chris , Katory Mark
Published: November 2017

Low anterior resection is the most common operation in the USA for low rectal cancers. Seminal vesicle‐rectal (SV‐R) fistula is an extremely uncommon complication of this operation. The objective of the present literature review was to investigate risk factors that lead to the development of SV‐R fistula, clinical presentation, investigation and management options. There were nine articles of relevance which reported a total of 12 cases of SV‐R fistula. All other iatrogenic or cryptogenic fistula were excluded. Twelve cases were identified in the literature, and we describe one further case. Pneumaturia and fever were presenting symptoms in 10 of 13 cases; 69.2 per cent (n = 9) of cases presented within 2 weeks of the procedure. Computed tomography was the investigation of choice in nine of 13 cases. A variety of surgical and conservative management plans were utilized. Conservative management was successful in 46.1 per cent (n = 6) of cases. The present study provides the first concise review of SV‐R fistula following low anterior resection and adds a further case. It is also the first article of its kind to recommend a treatment algorithm that consists of a trial of conservative management.
The enzymatic detoxification of the mycotoxin deoxynivalenol: identification of DepA from the DON epimerization pathway
Authors: Carere Jason , Hassan Yousef I. , Lepp Dion , Zhou Ting
Published: November 2017

The biological detoxification of mycotoxins, including deoxynivalenol (DON), represents a very promising approach to address the challenging problem of cereal grain contamination. The recent discovery of Devosia mutans 17‐2‐E‐8 (Devosia spp. 17‐2‐E‐8), a bacterial isolate capable of transforming DON to the non‐toxic stereoisomer 3‐epi‐deoxynivalenol, along with earlier reports of bacterial species capable of oxidizing DON to 3‐keto‐DON, has generated interest in the possible mechanism and enzyme(s) involved. An understanding of these details could pave the way for novel strategies to manage this widely present toxin. It was previously shown that DON epimerization proceeds through a two‐step biocatalysis. Significantly, this report describes the identification of the first enzymatic step in this pathway. The enzyme, a dehydrogenase responsible for the selective oxidation of DON at the C3 position, was shown to readily convert DON to 3‐keto‐DON, a less toxic intermediate in the DON epimerization pathway. Furthermore, this study provides insights into the PQQ dependence of the enzyme. This enzyme may be part of a feasible strategy for DON mitigation within the near future.
Stormwater Control Measures for Runoff and Water Quality Management in Urban Landscapes
Authors: Sadeghi K. Majid , Loáiciga Hugo A. , Kharaghani Shahram
Published: November 2017

This study develops and tests a novel optimization method for optimally selecting and sizing stormwater control measures (SCMs) in urban landscapes for selected design storms. The developed methodology yields SCMs that capture and retain stormwater via onsite percolation, remove stormwater pollutants, and minimize stormwater control expenditures. The resulting environmental optimization problem involves integer and real variables imbedded in an objective function that is subjected to multiple constraints. This study's methodology aims at practicality and ease of implementation in the solution of the SCM sizing and selection optimization problem while taking into account the main factors that govern stormwater management in urban landscapes. The near‐optimal global solution of the SCM selection and design problem is obtained with nonlinear programming and verified with the average of multiple solutions calculated with multiple runs of an optimization evolutionary algorithm. The developed methodology is illustrated with one stormwater project in the City of Los Angeles, California.
Groundwater Nutrient Concentrations and Mass Loading Rates at Iowa Golf Courses
Authors: Schilling Keith E. , Streeter Matthew T.
Published: November 2017

Golf courses are often considered by the public to be significant nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) nonpoint sources but only limited information exists on nutrient concentrations and loads in golf course groundwater. In this study, we measured N and P concentrations in groundwater and available surface water at six randomly selected Iowa golf courses to assess the loading risk posed by these facilities to groundwater and local rivers. At each course, three shallow monitoring wells were installed, one each on representative tee, fairway, and rough locations. Wells and available surface water were sampled on eight occasions during 2015 and 2016. NO3‐N concentrations were not detected above 1 mg/L at three of the six courses monitored in this study and the overall mean NO3‐N concentration in Iowa golf courses was 2.2 mg/L. The mass of NO3‐N recharged to groundwater averaged 3.3 kg/ha at the six courses, which represents approximately one‐tenth of the NO3‐N load exported by the watershed that contains the course and represented approximately 0.1 to 8% of the fertilizer N applied. Groundwater orthophosphorus concentrations averaged 0.13 mg/L and were similar to those measured in a variety of settings across Iowa. Study results should prove useful in evaluating nutrient contributions from golf courses in Midwestern states where nutrient reduction strategies are being pursued.
Landscape Hydrogeology and its Influence on Patterns of Groundwater Flux and Nitrate Removal Efficiency in Riparian Buffers
Authors: Hill Alan R.
Published: November 2017

This study uses data from 46 riparian sites to examine the influence of landscape hydrogeology on patterns of groundwater flux and the buffer width required for effective nitrate removal in humid temperate agricultural regions. There is a considerable imbalance in the research focus on different hydrogeologic settings. More than 40% of the buffers are located in landscapes with surficial sand aquifers, whereas few buffers have been studied in glacial till and weathered bedrock landscapes which cover large areas. Annual groundwater fluxes for 29 of these sites ranged from <20 L/m/day for buffers on flat sand plains and uplands with fine‐textured deposits to 50‐1,200 L/m/day for many sites with upland sand aquifers. Despite a similar range of water fluxes, buffers in gently to moderately sloping landscapes with <4 m depths of sand sediments reached a 90% removal efficiency within 30‐60 m while sites with >4 m depths required a 150‐200 m width. The width for 90% efficiency in buffers with loamy sand and sandy loam sediments also increased from 10‐20 m with <4 m sediment depths to 50‐100 m for >4 m depths. Limited data for buffers with fine‐textured sediments suggest that 90% of the nitrate flux was often depleted in a 10‐20 m width. Groundwater flux did not have a significant relationship with nitrate removal percent per meter buffer width because of the variation in efficiency that occurred in buffers with similar fluxes in different hydrogeologic settings.
First record of Bystrowianid Chroniosuchians (Amphibia: Anthracosauromorpha) from the Middle Permian of China
Authors: JIANG Shan , JI Shu‐an , MO Jinyou
Published: November 2017

Chroniosuchians are basal tetrapods owing to Anthracosauromorpha and the oldest species of chroniosuchians have been recorded in the Late Permian of Russia so far. In this study, we present evidence for their existence in the Middle Permian of China, based on well preserved diagnostic vertebrae with associated osteoderms from the Dashankou fanua in northwestern China. The finds clearly show interosteoderm articulation pattern between the adjacent scutes in bystrowianids. The features observed in Yumenerpeton yangi may warrant the close proximity or phyletic succession of the chroniosuchid and bystrowianid types of the osteoderm design.
Chronology and Geochemistry of the Berezitovoe Polymetallic Gold Deposit in Eastern Siberia, Russia and its Geological Significance
Authors: ZHANG Guobin , YANG Yanchen , VAKH Alexander S. , KHOMICH Vadim G. , WANG Keyong , YE Songqing , HAN Shijiong
Published: November 2017

The Berezitovoe deposit is a large‐sized Au–Ag–Zn–Pb deposit in the east of the Selenga–Stanovoi superterrane, Russia. Au–Ag orebodies are hosted by tourmaline‐garnet‐quartz‐muscovite metasomatic rocks; Zn–Pb orebodies are hosted by granodiorites, porphyritic granites and tourmaline‐garnet‐quartz‐muscovite metasomatic rocks. These orebodies are surrounded by wall rocks dominated by the Tukuringra Complex granodiorites, porphyritic granites, and gneissic granodiorites. The alteration includes silicification and garnet, sericitization chloritization, carbonatization and kaollinization. LA–ICP–MS U–Pb zircon dating indicates that the gold mineralization can be divided into two stages in the Berezitovoe polymetallic gold deposit (at 363.5 ± 1.5 Ma, and 133.4 ± 0.5). Hornblende–plagioclase gneisses of the Mogocha Group in the study area underwent Paleoproterozoic metamorphism (at 1870 ± 7.8 and 2400 ± 13 Ma), gneissic granodiorite of the Tukuringra Complex yields a late Paleozoic magmatic age (at 379.2 ± 1.1 Ma), and subalkaline porphyritic granitoid of the Amudzhikan Complex yield late Mesozoic magmatic ages (133–139 and 150–163 Ma). Granodiorites of the Tukuringra Complex in the study area have high concentrations of SiO2 (average of 60.9 wt%), are aluminum‐oversaturated (average A/CNK of 1.49), are enriched in the large ion lithophile elements (e.g., K, Rb, and Ba), U, Th, and Pb, are depleted in high field strength elements (e.g., Ta, Nb, and Ti), and have slightly negative Eu and no Ce anomalies in chondrite‐normalized rare earth element diagrams. Fluid inclusions from quartz veins include three types: aqueous two‐phase, CO2‐bearing three‐phase, and pure CO2. Aqueous two‐phase inclusions homogenize at 167°C–249°C and have salinities of 4.32%–9.47% NaCl equivalent, densities of 0.86–0.95 g/cm3, and formed at depths of 0.52–0.94 km. In comparison, the CO2‐bearing three‐phase inclusions have homogenization temperatures of 265°C–346°C, salinities of 7.14%–11.57% NaCl equivalent, and total densities of 0.62–0.67 g/cm3. The geochemical and zircon U–Pb data and the regional tectonic evolution of the study area, show that the Berezitovoe polymetallic gold deposit formed in an island arc or active continental margin setting, most probably related to late Paleozoic subduction of Okhotsk Ocean crust beneath the Siberian Plate.
Evidence of the Near‐Source Accumulation of the Tight Sandstone Gas in Northern Ordos Basin, North‐Central China
Authors: YANG Zhi , LI Qiyan , WU Songtao , LIN Senhu , LIU Xinshen
Published: November 2017

The tight sandstone gas in Upper Paleozoic Formation of the northern Ordos Basin is a typical giant unconventional tight gas province. Evidences from geochemistry, reservoir geology and pale‐otectonic setting all verify that the present‐day tight sandstone gas accumulation in the Ordos Basin is the result of near‐source accumulation. The evidences are listed as following: tight sandstone gas is mainly distributed in the area with high gas‐generating strength; gas composition was not subjected to fractionation; gas saturation significantly decreases with the distance away from the source rocks; gas isotopes suggest their origin is the same and maturity is consistent with in‐place source rocks; reservoirs have experienced three types of densification digenesis, including intense compaction, siliceous cementation and calcareous cementation, which took place before the formation of a large amount of tight sandstone gas, forming tight reservoirs with low porosity and permeability, fine pore throat and great capillary resistance; the paleo‐structural gradient ratio is small from the main hydrocarbon generation period to present. It is indicated the present distribution of tight sandstone gas in the northern Ordos Basin is the result of near‐source and short‐distance migration and accumulation.
Two‐dimensional Dynamics Simulation of Two‐phase Debris Flow
Authors: LIU Wei , HE Siming , OUYANG Chaojun
Published: November 2017

To investigate the movement mechanism of debris flow, a two‐dimensional, two‐phase, depth‐integrated model is introduced. The model uses Mohr‐Coulomb plasticity for the solid rheology, and the fluid stress is modeled as a Newtonian fluid. The interaction between solid and liquid phases, which plays a major role in debris flow movement, is assumed to consist of drag and buoyancy forces. The applicability of drag force formulas is discussed. Considering the complex interaction between debris flow and the bed surface, a combined friction boundary condition is imposed on the bottom, and this is also discussed. To solve the complex model equations, a numerical method with second‐order accuracy based on the finite volume method is proposed. Several numerical experiments are performed to verify the feasibilities of model and numerical schemes. Numerical results demonstrate that different solid volume fractions substantially affect debris flow movement.
A Pilot Study of Trophic Level and Human Origins at the Xiaoshuangqiao Site, China (ca. 1400 BC) Using δD Values of Collagen
Authors: WANG Ning , LI Suting , HU Yaowu , SONG Guoding
Published: November 2017

We present here a pilot study to examine trophic level effects and migration patterns at the middle Shang Dynasty site of Xiaoshuangqiao in Henan Province using δD results combined with δ13C and δ15N values. A total of 33 specimens (17 humans, 7 cattle, 5 pigs, 3 sheep, 1 dog) of bone collagen were isotopically analyzed for δ13C, δ15N, and dD values. A strong positive correlation (R2 = 0.94) between mean δ15N and δD values of herbivores (cattle and sheep), omnivores (pig), carnivores (dog) and humans was observed. The δD results were found to increase by ∼10‰ to 20‰ from herbivores to omnivores to carnivorous, evidence that collagen δD results are a useful indicator for the study of trophic levels and dietary patterns at archaeological sites. The δD results were also used to examine the origins of two different groups of individuals buried at Xiaoshuangqiao. Individuals buried in sacrificial pits of district V had mean δD values (−47.0 ± 2.9‰, n = 11) that were significantly (p = 0.049) elevated compared to the people buried in the stratigraphy of district IX (−51.3 ± 3.3‰, n = 3), indicating that they were ingesting water from different locations. In addition, the D values of the people buried in the stratigraphy were similar to the pigs (−54.5 ± 4.2‰, n = 5) at Xiaoshuangqiao, suggesting that they were most probably of the local population, and that the individuals buried in the sacrificial pits were most possibly from the coast and prisoners of the Dongyi (“东夷”) people. Thus, δD results have the potential to examine human origins and migration patterns and should be increasingly used in conjunction with δ13C and δ15N values at archaeological sites.
Analyst Firm Coverage and Forecast Accuracy: The Effect of Regulation Fair Disclosure
Authors: Dong Yi , Hu Nan , Li Xu , Liu Ling
Published: November 2017

In this study, we revisit the relationship between analyst firm coverage and forecast accuracy. In contrast to the proposed negative association in Clement (1999) owing to the portfolio complexity effect, we hypothesize an ‘economy‐of‐scale effect’ that is likely to dominate when analysts rely mostly on public information. In support of the latter effect, we find a positive association between firm coverage and forecast accuracy after the enactment of Regulation Fair Disclosure (Reg FD), which substantially reduces the flow of material private information to analysts. Such a result survives a battery of robustness analyses. We further show that, in the post‐Reg FD period, covering more firms increases an analyst's probability of being selected as a star analyst in the subsequent year. Overall, our findings highlight the importance of the information environment in shaping the economic link between an analyst's firm coverage and forecast accuracy.
Exome sequence analysis and follow up genotyping implicates rare ULK1 variants to be involved in susceptibility to schizophrenia
Authors: Al Eissa Mariam M. , Fiorentino Alessia , Sharp Sally I. , O'Brien Niamh L. , Wolfe Kate , Giaroli Giovanni , Curtis David , Bass Nicholas J. , McQuillin Andrew
Published: November 2017

Schizophrenia (SCZ) is a severe, highly heritable psychiatric disorder. Elucidation of the genetic architecture of the disorder will facilitate greater understanding of the altered underlying neurobiological mechanisms. The aim of this study was to identify likely aetiological variants in subjects affected with SCZ.

Exome sequence data from a SCZ cas–control sample from Sweden was analysed for likely aetiological variants using a weighted burden test. Suggestive evidence implicated the UNC‐51‐like kinase (ULK1) gene, and it was observed that four rare variants that were more common in the Swedish SCZ cases were also more common in UK10K SCZ cases, as compared to obesity cases. These three missense variants and one intronic variant were genotyped in the University College London cohort of 1304 SCZ cases and 1348 ethnically matched controls.

All four variants were more common in the SCZ cases than controls and combining them produced a result significant at P = 0.02.

The results presented here demonstrate the importance of following up exome sequencing studies using additional datasets. The roles of ULK1 in autophagy and mTOR signalling strengthen the case that these pathways may be important in the pathophysiology of SCZ. The findings reported here await independent replication.
Silenced DMBT1 promotes nasal mucosa epithelial cell growth
Authors: Lu Xiaoqing , Xu Yaping , Zhao Yu , Tao Qilei , Wu Jian
Published: November 2017

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the role of the deleted in malignant brain tumors 1 (DMBT1) gene in the development of nasal polyps, as well as related mechanisms.

Methods

A stable human nasal mucosa epithelial cell (HNEpC) line with low expression of DMBT1 was generated. Three groups were established: a control group (HNEpCs without any treatment), a control short interference RNA (shRNA) group (HNEpCs transfected with an empty vector), and a DMBT1 shRNA group (HNEpCs with silenced DMBT1). Cell viability, apoptosis, and cell cycle distribution were measured after incubation. Expression of p53, signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), protein kinase B (AKT) and extracellular signal‐regulated kinase1/2 (ERK1/2) was detected by western blotting.

Results

Compared with the control cell line, HNEpCs with silenced DMBT1 had increased viability and decreased apoptosis. Moreover, after DMBT1 silence, cell numbers were decreased significantly in the G1 phase and increased in the G2 and S phases. DMBT1 silence was associated with increased AKT expression and decreased p53 expression, but it did not alter expression of ERK1/2 or STAT3 (P > 0.05). Compared with the control cell line, HNEpCs transfected with an empty vector did not have altered cell viability, apoptosis, cell cycle distribution or expression of AKT, p53, ERK1/2, or STAT3 (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

DMBT1 plays an important role in the growth and division of nasal epithelial cells. The possible mechanism might involve DMBT1 regulating the AKT–p53 pathway to promote cell viability and reduce apoptosis of nasal epithelial cells.