bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Continuity of the Alpine slab unraveled by high‐resolution P wave tomography
Authors: Zhao Liang , Paul Anne , Malusà Marco G. , Xu Xiaobing , Zheng Tianyu , Solarino Stefano , Guillot Stéphane , Schwartz Stéphane , Dumont Thierry , Salimbeni Simone , Aubert Coralie , Pondrelli Silvia , Wang Qingchen , Zhu Rixiang
Published: November 2016

The question of lateral and/or vertical continuity of subducted slabs in active orogens is a hot topic partly due to poorly resolved tomographic data. The complex slab structure beneath the Alpine region is only partly resolved by available geophysical data, leaving many geological and geodynamical issues widely open. Based upon a finite‐frequency kernel method, we present a new high‐resolution tomography model using P wave data from 527 broadband seismic stations, both from permanent networks and temporary experiments. This model provides an improved image of the slab structure in the Alpine region and fundamental pinpoints for the analysis of Cenozoic magmatism, (U)HP metamorphism, and Alpine topography. Our results document the lateral continuity of the European slab from the Western Alps to the central Alps, and the downdip slab continuity beneath the central Alps, ruling out the hypothesis of slab break off to explain Cenozoic Alpine magmatism. A low‐velocity anomaly is observed in the upper mantle beneath the core of the Western Alps, pointing to dynamic topography effects. A NE dipping Adriatic slab, consistent with Dinaric subduction, is possibly observed beneath the Eastern Alps, whereas the laterally continuous Adriatic slab of the Northern Apennines shows major gaps at the boundary with the Southern Apennines and becomes near vertical in the Alps‐Apennines transition zone. Tear faults accommodating opposite‐dipping subductions during Alpine convergence may represent reactivated lithospheric faults inherited from Tethyan extension. Our results suggest that the interpretations of previous tomography results that include successive slab break offs along the Alpine‐Zagros‐Himalaya orogenic belt might be proficiently reconsidered.
Too Big to Solve? Heliophysics Pioneers a New Approach to Intractable Problems
Authors: Guhathakurta M.
Published: November 2016

Key Points

Heliophysics is combinatorial, encompassing threads of science separated by artificial boundaries of funding and academic labels

To create synergism, NASA/Heliophysics created Working Groups where members from different disciplines are meeting for the first time

First such working group came together in March 2015, to tackle the problem of geomagnetically induced current (GICs)
New Roadmap for the Journey From Internist to Rheumatologist
Authors: Criscione‐Schreiber Lisa G. , Brown Calvin R. , O'Rourke Kenneth S. , Fuchs Howard A. , Putterman Chaim , Tan Irene J. , Valeriano‐Marcet Joanne , Hsieh Evelyn , Zirkle Sarah , Bolster Marcy B.
Published: November 2016

Objective

Measurement is necessary to gauge improvement. US training programs have not previously used shared standards to assess trainees’ mastery of the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to practice rheumatology competently. In 2014, the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) Next Accreditation System began requiring semiannual evaluation of all medicine subspecialty fellows on 23 internal medicine subspecialty reporting milestones. Since these reporting milestones are not subspecialty specific, rheumatology curricular milestones were needed to guide rheumatology fellowship training programs and fellows on the training journey from internist to rheumatologist.

Methods

Rheumatology curricular milestones were collaboratively composed by expanding the internal medicine reporting milestones to delineate the specific targets of rheumatology fellowship training within 6 ACGME core competencies. The 2006 American College of Rheumatology core curriculum for rheumatology training programs was updated.

Results

A total of 80 rheumatology curricular milestones were created, defining progressive learning through training; most focus on patient care and medical knowledge. The core curriculum update incorporates the new curricular milestones and rheumatology entrustable professional activities.

Conclusion

Rheumatology curricular milestones are now available for implementation by rheumatology fellowship training programs, providing a clear roadmap for specific training goals and a guide to track each fellow's achievement over a 2‐year training period. The comprehensive core curriculum delineates the essential breadth of knowledge, skills, and attitudes that define rheumatology, and provides a guide for educational activities during fellowship training. These guiding documents are now used to train and assess fellows as they prepare for independent rheumatology practice as the next generation of rheumatologists.
Different Rating of Global Rheumatoid Arthritis Disease Activity in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients With Multiple Morbidities
Authors: Radner Helga , Yoshida Kazuki , Tedeschi Sara , Studenic Paul , Frits Michelle , Iannaccone Christine , Shadick Nancy A. , Weinblatt Michael , Aletaha Daniel , Smolen Josef S. , Solomon Daniel H.
Published: November 2016

Objective

To quantify differences and determine the factors contributing to the difference in patient global assessment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) disease activity (PtGA) between RA patients with multiple morbidities (RA‐MM) and those with RA only.

Methods

We compared the PtGA between RA‐MM patients and those with RA only, followed up in a longitudinal cohort (n = 1,040). In analyses performed on RA‐MM patients (n = 575) and those with RA only (matched for swollen joint count, tender joint count, evaluator global assessment, and disease duration), the mean difference in PtGA (ΔPtGA) between the 2 groups was assessed. The contribution of patient characteristics to the explained variation of ΔPtGA in the matched cohort was calculated as semipartial R2 and summarized as the percentage of the total R2 in linear regression models.

Results

RA‐MM patients reported higher (or worse) PtGA, with an increased PtGA associated with more morbidities (P for linear trend < 0.01); this relationship remained significant after adjustment for disease activity, age, and disease duration. After matching 294 RA‐MM patients to those with RA only, the pairwise comparison of mean PtGA (on a scale of 0–100 mm) was significantly higher (worse) for RA‐MM patients (mean ± SD 30.5 ± 24.3) versus those with RA only (25.6 ± 22.9) (mean ΔPtGA 4.9 ± 26.7; P < 0.01 by paired t‐test). Variables uniquely contributing to ΔPtGA were fatigue (18%), pain (17%), and modified Health Assessment Questionnaire scores (9%).

Conclusion

In RA patients with multiple morbidities, the perception of RA disease activity as measured by the PtGA might be impacted by the burden of multiple diseases in one individual. RA‐MM patients have higher (worse) levels of PtGA scores compared to patients with RA only. The difference in PtGA is mainly explained by differences in fatigue and pain.
Coordination Kinetics of Different Metal Ions with the Amidoximated Polyacrylonitrile Nanofibrous Membranes and Catalytic Behaviors of their Complexes
Authors: Li Fu , Dong Yongchun , Kang Weimin , Cheng Bowen , Qu Xiang , Cui Guixin
Published: November 2016

Two transition metal ions (Fe3+ and Cu2+) and a rare earth metal ion (Ce3+) were selected to coordinate with amidoximated polyacrylonitrile (PAN) nanofibrous membrane for preparing three metal modified PAN nanofibrous membrane complexes (M‐AO‐n‐PANs, M = Fe, Cu, or Ce) as the heterogeneous Fenton catalysts for the dye degradation in water under visible irradiation. The coordination kinetics of three metal ions with modified PAN nanofibrous membranes was studied and the catalytic properties of the resulting complexes were also compared. The results indicated that increasing metal ion concentrations in solution or higher coordination temperature led to a significant increase in metal content, particularly in Fe and Cu contents of the complexes. Their coordination process could be described using Langmuir isotherm and pseudo‐second‐order kinetic equations. Moreover, Fe‐AO‐n‐PAN had the best photocatalytic efficiency for the dye degradation in acidic medium, but a lower photocatalytic activity than Cu‐AO‐n‐PAN in alkali medium.
Simple extraction method for quantification of phenothiazine residues in pork muscle using liquid chromatography–triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Zhang Dan , Park Jin‐A , Kim Seong‐Kwan , Cho Sang‐Hyun , Cho Soo‐Min , Shim Jae‐Han , Kim Jin‐Suk , Abd El‐Aty A. M. , Shin Ho‐Chul
Published: November 2016

In this study, an analytical method was developed for quantification of residues of the anthelmintic drug phenothiazine (PTZ) in pork muscle using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. Muscles were extracted using 0.2% formic acid and 10 mm ammonium formate in acetonitrile, defatted and purified using n‐hexane. The drug was well separated on a Waters XBridge™ C18 analytical column using a binary solvent system consisting of 0.2% formic acid and 10 mm ammonium formate in ultrapure water (A) and acetonitrile (B). Good linearity was achieved over a six‐point concentration range in matrix‐matched calibration with determination coefficient =0.9846. Fortified pork muscle having concentrations equivalent to and double the limit of quantification (1 ng/g) yielded recovery ranges between 100.82 and 104.03% and relative standard deviations <12%. Samples (n = 5) collected from large markets located in Seoul City tested negative for PTZ residue. In conclusion, 0.2% formic acid and ammonium formate in acetonitrile can effectively extract PTZ from pork muscle without solid‐phase extraction, a step normally required for cleanup before analysis and the validated method can be used for routine analysis to ensure the quality of animal products.
Comparison of radiation exposure during transradial diagnostic coronary angiography with single‐ or multi‐catheters approach
Authors: Plourde Guillaume , Abdelaal Eltigani , MacHaalany Jimmy , Rimac Goran , Poirier Yann , Arsenault Jean , Costerousse Olivier , Bertrand Olivier F.
Published: November 2016

Objective

To compare radiation exposure during transradial diagnostic coronary angiography (DCA) using standard single‐ or multi‐catheters with different shapes.

Background

Transradial DCA can be performed using single‐ or multi‐catheters to canulate left and right coronary ostia. To date, it remains unknown whether there are differences in radiation exposure between the two strategies.

Methods

From November 2012 to June 2014, 3,410 consecutive patients who underwent transradial DCA were recruited. Groups were based on the initial diagnostic catheter used and were dichotomized between single‐ and multi‐catheters approach. All crossovers were excluded. The multi‐catheters approach (Multi) group consisted of Judkins left and right catheters, whereas the single‐catheter (Single) group included Amplatz, Barbeau, or Multipurpose catheters. Fluoroscopy time (FT) as a surrogate end‐point for total radiation exposure and kerma‐area product (KAP; patient radiation exposure) were collected as radiation exposure parameters.

Results

A single‐catheter strategy was used in 439 patients, while 2,971 patients had a multi‐catheters approach. There was no significant difference in FT between groups (2.86 ± 1.48 min for Multi vs. 2.87 ± 1.72 min for Single, P = 0.13). The multi‐catheters approach was associated with a significant 15% reduction in KAP (3,599 ± 2,214 cGy · cm2 vs. 3,073 ± 1,785 cGy · cm2, P < 0.0001) compared to the single‐catheter approach. When pooling all patients, mean FT was 2.86 ± 1.51 min. Mean KAP was 3,141 ± 1,854 cGy · cm2. Reference levels in our institution in both groups were below international diagnostic reference levels. Overall both FT and KAP decreased by 15% and 19%, respectively, over the 2‐year study period.

Conclusions

Compared to a single‐catheter approach, a multi‐catheters approach with standard Judkins catheters for DCA significantly reduced patient radiation exposure. Whether single catheter designed for DCA by radial approach can further reduce radiation exposure compared to Judkins catheters remains to be compared in randomized studies. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Single‐center experience in percutaneous closure of arterial duct with Amplatzer duct Occluder II additional sizes
Authors: Mahmoud Heba Talat , Santoro Giuseppe , Gaio Gianpiero , D'Aiello Fabio Angelo , Capogrosso Cristina , Palladino Maria Teresa , Russo Maria Giovanna
Published: November 2016

Objectives

This study aimed to report a large, single‐center experience of percutaneous arterial duct (AD) closure using Amplatzer Duct Occluder II Additional Sizes device (ADO II‐AS)(St. Jude Medical Corp, St. Paul, MN, USA).

Background

Transcatheter closure of AD remains challenging in low body weight patients and those who have a persisting shunt following a previous attempt at interventional closure. Recent technical advances in device design may address these issues.

Methods

From May 2011 to April 2016, 109 patients underwent attempted percutaneous closure of AD with ADO II‐AS at our Institution. Mean age and weight were 4.8 ± 8.1 years (range 0‐48) and 21.4 ± 20.6 kg (range 3‐93), respectively. Fifteen patients (13.8%) were ≤6 kg (age 3.5 ± 2.0 months; weight 4.7 ± 1.1 kg). Arterial duct morphology was type A in 62 (57%), type B in 1 (1%), type C in 32 (29%), type D in 7 (6%) and type E in 6 patients (6%), respectively. Arterial approach was used to negotiate and deploy the occluding device in 103 patients (94.5%).

Results

AD diameter was 2.2 ± 0.6 (range 1.5–4.5) resulting in QP/QS of 1.9 ± 0.7 (range 1‐3.3). Mean pulmonary artery pressure and PA/aortic pressure ratio were 19.3 ± 5.0 mm Hg (range 12‐38) and 0.34 ± 0.14 (range 0.14‐0.95), respectively. Successful device deployment was achieved in 107 patients (98.2%). Neither procedural morbidity nor mortality was recorded. Immediate, 24h and mid‐term (30 ± 17 months) complete occlusion was recorded in 71%, 98.1%, and 100% of patients, respectively.

Conclusion

In our experience, trans‐catheter closure of AD of different sizes and morphologies using ADO II‐AS is highly feasible, safe and effective also in challenging anatomic/clinical settings. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Double trouble: fetal diagnosis of a pulmonary artery sling and vascular ring
Authors: Lee Jesse W. , Printz Beth F. , Hegde Sanjeet R. , Vargas Lisa A. , Sun Heather Y.
Published: November 2016

Key Clinical Message

Left pulmonary artery slings and vascular rings are rare congenital anomalies definable by fetal echocardiography. Left pulmonary artery slings are associated with high respiratory morbidity and mortality. Prenatal diagnosis of a left pulmonary artery sling should prompt delivery planning for postnatal management at a pediatric tertiary care center.
Facile fabrication of H2BDC‐NH2 modified anatase TiO2 for effective photocatalytic degradation of azo dyes
Authors: Liu Meiling , Liu Yong , Zhang Dou , Pan Jun , Liu Bowei , Ouyang Sihui
Published: November 2016

abstract

The 2‐amino benzene dicarboxylic acid (H2BDC‐NH2) modified TiO2 was prepared via hydrothermal method. The surface areas of unmodified and modified TiO2 were 23.206 and 231.908 m2/g, and the according light absorption range changed from 400 nm to 540 nm. The modified TiO2 exhibited 3 times higher visible‐light photocatalytic degradation efficiency for four types of azo dyes than unmodified TiO2 and commercial P25. The ligand H2BDC of modified TiO2 generated photoelectrons and holes under visible light irradiation, producing and active sites for the dye degradation. Moreover, the modified TiO2 showed excellent stability, which suggests the as‐prepared composite to be a promising photocatalyst.
Refuge quality impacts the strength of nonconsumptive effects on prey
Authors: Donelan Sarah C. , Grabowski Jonathan H. , Trussell Geoffrey C.
Published: November 2016

Prey often retreat into the safety of refuges for protection from predators. This shift into refuge can reduce foraging opportunities, escalating the costs of risk and the strength of nonconsumptive effects. Such costs, however, may be shaped by the variation in resources that refuges harbor for prey foraging (i.e., refuge quality), and change dynamically via impacts on prey state. Despite its potential importance, we lack an explicit understanding of how refuge quality impacts prey performance under risk. Using a rocky intertidal food chain, we examined the interaction between predation risk and the amount of resources available for prey in refuge. We found that refuges with more resources greatly reduce the costs of refuge use, and that nonconsumptive effects are thereby weakened by as much as one‐half, with especially strong impacts on prey growth and growth efficiency. These results suggest that failure to consider refuge quality could result in overestimation of the negative effects associated with prey refuge use.
Cobalt‐Embedded Nitrogen‐Doped Carbon Nanotubes as High‐Performance Bifunctional Oxygen Catalysts
Authors: Hao Yongchao , Lu Zhiyi , Zhang Guoxin , Chang Zheng , Luo Liang , Sun Xiaoming
Published: November 2016

The oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) are key processes in various renewable‐energy technologies and call for high‐performance bifunctional ORR/OER electrocatalysts. In this study, a highly efficient bifunctional oxygen catalyst, which was made of bamboo‐like nitrogen‐doped carbon nanotubes with embedded cobalt nanoparticles (Co@NCNTs), was fabricated by a one‐step pyrolysis route. Systematic electrochemical results demonstrated that the optimized electrocatalyst only needed a small potential hysteresis of about 0.834 V to achieve 1 mA cm−2 ORR current and 10 mA cm−2 OER current, and simultaneously gave superior stability and methanol tolerance to those of commercial metal catalysts. The major factors that influenced the bifunctional catalyst performance of Co@NCNTs are discussed, among which the nitrogen chemical state and metal element play important roles. Moreover, the catalyst showed good activity and stability in rechargeable zinc–air batteries, which indicated their potential applications in metal–air batteries, fuel cells, and water‐splitting devices.
Valorising the IoT Databox: creating value for everyone
Authors: Perera Charith , Wakenshaw Susan Y. L. , Baarslag Tim , Haddadi Hamed , Bandara Arosha K. , Mortier Richard , Crabtree Andy , Ng Irene C. L. , McAuley Derek , Crowcroft Jon
Published: November 2016

The Internet of Things is expected to generate large amounts of heterogeneous data from diverse sources including physical sensors, user devices and social media platforms. Over the last few years, significant attention has been focused on personal data, particularly data generated by smart wearable and smart home devices. Making personal data available for access and trade is expected to become a part of the data‐driven digital economy. In this position paper, we review the research challenges in building personal Databoxes that hold personal data and enable data access by other parties and potentially thus sharing of data with other parties. These Databoxes are expected to become a core part of future data marketplaces. Copyright © 2016 The Authors Transactions on Emerging Telecommunications Technologies Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Macropores and preferential flow—a love‐hate relationship
Authors: Weiler Markus
Published: November 2016

Preferential flow is of high relevance for runoff generation, transport of chemicals and nutrients, and the transit time distribution of water in the soil or watershed. However, preferential flow effects are generally ignored in lumped hydrological models. And even most physically‐based models ignore macropores and preferential flow features at the soil and hillslope scale. Keith Beven was never satisfied with this situation and he tried again and again to convince the scientific community to focus their research on the complex topic of macropore and preferential flow. Although he recognized how difficult it is to correctly include preferential flow in hydrological models, he made substantial progress defining and describing macropore flow and showing its relevance, developing models to simulate preferential flow, and in particular, the interaction between macropores and the soil matrix. In this short commentary, I reflect on these achievements and outline a vision for research in preferential flow experiments and modeling.
Poly(styrene‐co‐N‐methacryloyl‐l‐phenylalanine methyl ester)‐functionalized magnetic nanoparticles as sorbents for the analysis of sodium benzoate in beverages
Authors: Ji Shilei , Li Nan , Qi Li , Wang Minglin
Published: November 2016

In this study, poly(styrene‐co‐N‐methacryloyl‐l‐phenylalanine methyl ester)‐functionalized magnetic nanoparticles were constructed and used as magnetic solid‐phase extraction sorbents for analysis of food preservatives in beverages. To prepare the poly(amino acid)‐based sorbents, N‐methacryloyl‐l‐phenylalanine methyl ester, and styrene served as the functional monomers and modified onto the magnetic nanoparticles via free radical polymerization. Interestingly, compared with propylparaben and potassium sorbate, the proposed poly(amino acid)‐based sorbents showed a good selectivity to sodium benzoate. The adsorption capacity of the sorbents to sodium benzoate was 6.08 ± 0.31 mg/g. Moreover, the fast adsorption equilibrium could be reached within 5 min. Further, the resultant poly(amino acid)‐based sorbents were applied in the analysis of sodium benzoate in real beverage samples. The results proved that the proposed magnetic solid‐phase extraction sorbents have a great potential for the analysis of preservatives in food samples.
Longterm renal allograft survival after sequential liver‐kidney transplantation from a single living donor
Authors: Kitajima Kumiko , Ogawa Yuichi , Miki Katsuyuki , Kai Kotaro , Sannomiya Akihito , Iwadoh Kazuhiro , Murakami Toru , Koyama Ichiro , Nakajima Ichiro , Fuchinoue Shohei
Published: November 2016

Combined liver‐kidney transplantation (CLKT) is well established as a definitive therapy with the potential to provide complete recovery for certain liver‐kidney diseases, although the results might be contingent on the cause of transplantation. The purposes of the present study were to review the longterm outcome of renal allografts in CLKT patients from single living donors and to investigate the beneficial factors, compared with solitary renal transplantation. Thirteen patients underwent sequential liver transplantation (LT) and kidney transplantation (KT) from single living donors. The indications for KT were oxaluria (n = 7), autosomal recessive polycystic disease (n = 3), and others (n = 3). The same immunosuppressive regimen used after LT was also used after KT. KT was performed between 1.7 and 47.0 months after the LT. The overall patient survival rate was 92.3% at 10 years. In 12 of the 13 surviving patients, the renal allografts were found to be functioning in 11 patients after a mean follow‐up period of 103.6 months. The death‐censored renal allograft survival rate at 10 years was 100%, which was better than that of KT alone (84.9%) in Japan. Immunological protection conferred by the preceding liver allograft may have contributed to the longterm outcomes of the renal allografts. In addition, the donation of double organs from a single living and related donor may have a favorable impact on the graft survival rate. In the future, investigations of factors affecting the longterm outcome of renal allografts, including details of the involvement of de novo donor‐specific antibody, will be needed. Liver Transplantation 23 315–323 2017 AASLD.
Homogeneity of echo intensity values in transverse ultrasound images
Authors: Varanoske Alyssa N. , Fukuda David H. , Boone Carleigh H. , Beyer Kyle S. , Stout Jeffrey R. , Hoffman Jay R.
Published: November 2016

Introduction

Echo intensity of skeletal muscle measured by means of ultrasonography has been used to assess muscle quality, however, the heterogeneity of echo intensity has not been thoroughly investigated. Therefore, this study examined echo intensity in different sections of panoramic ultrasound images captured in the transverse plane.

Methods

Echo intensity of the vastus lateralis was assessed in 24 men (20.2 ± 1.6 years) using panoramic ultrasonography. Echo intensity homogeneity was examined by dividing each image into 3 compartments of equal horizontal length (tertiles).

Results

No differences were found between echo intensity of the anterior tertile (59.1 ± 9.1 AU), posterior tertile (56.4 ± 9.9 AU), lateral tertile (58.7 ± 9.9 AU), or the overall panoramic image (58.0 ± 8.8 AU).

Conclusions

Echo intensity of the vastus lateralis appears to be homogeneous as assessed in the transverse plane. Further research is necessary to determine if still imaging is sufficient to obtain an accurate measure of echo intensity. Muscle Nerve 56: 93–98, 2017.
Surface and interfacial segregation of polyethersulfone deuterated chain ends determined by neutron reflectivity
Authors: Knauer Katrina M. , Pollino Joel , Schwartz Jonathan , Moore Levi M. J. , Morgan Sarah E.
Published: November 2016

The surface localization of polymer chain ends has been shown to be an effective method for surface composition control in amorphous polymer films. This work determines chain end distribution in thin polyethersulfone (PESU) films end‐capped with deuterated compounds of varying size and composition. Neutron reflectivity revealed the preferential localization of chain ends to the PESU‐air interface, independent of chain end identity. The length scale of the chain end concentration gradient was determined to differ from that predicted for flexible chain polymers. Atomic force microscopy and contact angle analysis demonstrated that chain end localization allows for improved control of nanoscale and macroscale surface properties of PESU films. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2017, 55, 293–301
Maternal cardiac function after HELLP syndrome: an echocardiography study
Authors: Orabona R. , Vizzardi E. , Sciatti E. , Prefumo F. , Bonadei I. , Valcamonico A. , Metra M. , Frusca T.
Published: November 2016

Objective

To evaluate maternal hemodynamics in asymptomatic women with a previous pregnancy affected by hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes and low platelets (HELLP) syndrome and compare the findings to those of women with previous pre‐eclampsia (PE) and controls with a previous uncomplicated pregnancy.

Methods

Women with a history of PE (n = 60) or HELLP syndrome (n = 49) and matched healthy controls (n = 60) underwent echocardiography at 6 months to 4 years after delivery, recording left ventricular (LV) dimensions, ejection fraction (LVEF) and mass, right ventricular (RV) tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion and fractional area change (FAC). Diastolic filling (E/A and E/E′ ratios) and tissue Doppler imaging were evaluated for both ventricles and the myocardial performance index was calculated.

Results

Only women with previous HELLP syndrome showed significant LV concentric hypertrophy (20.4%). However, in both HELLP and PE groups, LV concentric remodeling (46.9% and 46.7%, respectively), diastolic dysfunction (expressed as altered E/A and E/E′ ratios) and reduced LVEF (14.3% and 21.7%, respectively) were documented. RV variables did not differ significantly between cases and controls, except for FAC and E/E′ ratio, which were slightly impaired in women with previous HELLP syndrome compared to those with previous PE (16.3% vs 10.0%, P = 0.04; 14.3% vs 3.3%, P = 0.03, respectively).

Conclusions

The significant overlap of echocardiographic features in women with previous PE and HELLP syndrome suggests that these two conditions share the same pathophysiology. However, HELLP syndrome may lead to more severe cardiovascular remodeling in the short to medium term after delivery. Copyright © 2016 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Formation of Crystalline Telluridomercurates from Ionic Liquids near Room Temperature
Authors: Donsbach Carsten , Dehnen Stefanie
Published: November 2016

The ternary telluridomercurate Na2[HgTe2] (1) was formed by fusion of Na2Te and HgTe at 600 °C and further treated in the ionic liquid (C4C1Im)[BF4] (C4C1Im = 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium) at moderately elevated temperatures (60 °C), leading to replacement of the Na+ cations with (C4C1Im)+ and re‐arrangement of the inorganic substructure. As a result, we obtained the telluridomercurate (C4C1Im)2[HgTe2] (2) and the tellurido/ditelluridomercurate (C4C1Im)2[Hg2Te4] (3) besides polytellurides and HgTe as by‐products. The heavy atom compositions of the compounds were confirmed by micro X‐ray fluorescence spectroscopy (μ‐XFS), and their structures were determined by single‐crystal diffraction. The cation‐exchanged salts were further investigated by UV/Vis spectroscopy, indicating narrow band‐gap optical transitions at 2.80 eV (2) and 1.63 eV (3), in agreement with their visible yellow or reddish‐black color, respectively.
A retrospective analysis of mortality in captive pygmy hippopotamus (Choeropsis liberiensis) from 1912 to 2014
Authors: Flacke Gabriella L. , Tkalčić Suzana , Steck Beatrice , Warren Kristin , Martin Graeme B.
Published: November 2016

The pygmy hippopotamus (Choeropsis liberiensis) is an IUCN Red List Endangered species (CITES Appendix II) that has been housed in zoological collections since 1912. As wild populations continue to decline throughout the species’ range, successful ex situ breeding and management, including an understanding of morbidity and mortality, are of utmost importance. This study is the first comprehensive review of mortality data from the captive population since 1982 and significantly expands on previous analyses. We solicited necropsy reports from 129/187 zoological institutions worldwide that currently or previously held pygmy hippos and received data for 404 animals (177 ♂, 220 ♀, 7 undermined sex), representing 43% of pygmy hippos that have died in captivity. Mortality in neonates was primarily due to perinatal causes (51.8%—stillbirth, failure to thrive, weakness, poor suckling reflex, maternal neglect) or parent‐inflicted trauma (28%). Common causes of mortality in adult and geriatric animals included cardiovascular disease (16%), degenerative musculoskeletal conditions (10%), obstructive gastrointestinal disease (9%), and renal insufficiency (13%), sometimes associated with advanced polycystic kidney disease (PKD). Although not the direct cause of mortality, a number of adult and geriatric pygmy hippos were also overweight to obese. Infectious causes of mortality in included leptospirosis and encephalomyocarditis virus, the latter usually presenting as acute death due to cardiovascular demise. This comprehensive overview presents a useful guide for recommendations in preventative veterinary care and for improved husbandry and management of pygmy hippos in captivity. Zoo Biol. 35:556–569, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Zonal distribution of coarse woody debris and its contribution to net primary production in a secondary mangrove forest
Authors: Umnouysin Suthathip , Sangtiean Tanuwong , Poungparn Sasitorn
Published: November 2016

Coarse woody debris (CWD) plays an important role in long‐term carbon storage in forest ecosystems. However, few studies have examined CWD in mangrove forests. A secondary mangrove forest on an estuary of the Trat River showed different structures along vegetation zones ranging from the river's edge to inland parts of the forest (the Sonneratia–Avicennia, Avicennia, Rhizophora, and Xylocarpus zones, respectively). The mass distribution of CWD stock in downed wood and standing dead trees along these vegetation zones was evaluated. Most of the CWD stock in the Sonneratia–Avicennia and Avicennia zones was found in downed wood, while it mainly accumulated in standing dead trees in the Rhizophora and Xylocarpus zones. The total mass of CWD stock that accumulated in each zone ranged from 1.56–8.39 t ha−1, depending on the forest structure and inundation regimes. The annual woody debris flux in each zone was calculated by summing the necromass (excluding foliage) of dead trees and coarse litter from 2010 to 2013. The average woody debris flux was 5.4 t ha−1 year−1, and its zonal variation principally depended on the necromass production that resulted from forest succession, high tree‐density, and lightning. Over all the zones, the above‐ and below‐ground net primary production (ANPP and BNPP, respectively) was estimated at 18.0 and 3.6 t ha−1 year−1, respectively. The magnitude of BNPP and its contribution to the NPP was markedly increased when fine root production was taken into consideration. The contribution of the woody debris flux without root necromass to the ANPP ranged from 12 to 28%.
Synthesis, Characterization and Properties of N‐Alkyl‐N,N‐di(2‐hydroxyethyl) Amine Oxides
Authors: Liu Hongqin , Shi Guoying , Xu Baocai , Chen Shuyu , Zhang Guiju
Published: November 2016

N‐Dodecyl‐N,N‐di(2‐hydroxyethyl) amine oxide (C12DHEAO) and N‐stearyl‐N,N‐di(2‐hydroxyethyl) amine oxide (C18DHEAO) were synthesized with N‐alkyl‐diethanolamine and hydrogen peroxide. Their chemical structures were confirmed using 1H‐NMR spectra, mass spectral fragmentation and FTIR spectroscopic analysis. It was found that C12DHEAO and C18DHEAO reduced the surface tension of water to a minimum value of approximately 28.75 mN m−1 at concentration of 2.48 × 10−3 mol L−1 and 32.45 mN m−1 at concentration of 5.21 × 10−5 mol L−1, respectively. The minimum interfacial tension (IFTmin) and the dynamic interfacial tension (DIT) of oil–water system were measured. When C18DHEAO concentration was in the range of 0.1–0.5%, the IFTmin between liquid paraffin and C18DHEAO solutions all reached the ultra‐low interfacial tension. Furthermore, their foam properties were investigated by Ross‐Miles method, and the height of foam of C12DHEAO was 183 mm. It was also found that they showed strong emulsifying power.
Russia's political economy re-conceptualized: A changing hybrid of liberalism, statism and patrimonialism
Authors: Becker Uwe , Vasileva Alexandra
Published: November 2016

Russian political–economic development since the early 1990s has been described as one of initial liberalization and subsequent re-etatization a decade later. Our paper critically builds upon this view, systematically adding patrimonialism as third dimension and conceptualizing Russia's trajectory as varying with respect to ideal–typical liberalism, statism and patrimonialism. We argue that Russian patrimonialism hindered the rise of the economically facilitating state capacity and undermined both liberalization in the 1990s and re-etatization in the 2000s.

Furthermore, we add a comparative BRICs perspective that clarifies the peculiarity of Russia's development based on statistical data from the World Bank, the OECD and Heritage Foundation. The data confirm the de-liberalization of Russia and show an increase of patrimonialism. Another finding is that Russia was the only BRIC country that de-liberalized and increased its level of patrimonialism in the period under consideration.
A Longitudinal Mirror-Image Assessment of Morbidity in Bipolar Disorder
Authors: Martino D.J. , Samamé C. , Marengo E. , Igoa A. , Scápola M. , Strejilevich S.A.
Published: November 2016

Background

Evidence about the clinical course of bipolar disorder is inconsistent and limited. The aim of this study was to assess changes in morbidity in patients with bipolar disorder along a mean follow-up period of 80 months.

Methods

Based on a mirror-image design, the follow-up period of each patient was divided into two halves. Then, three measures of morbidity — number of affective episodes, time spent ill, and cycle length — were recorded and compared between each half of the follow-up period.

Results

On average, there was a trend to a smaller amount of time spent with subclinical symptomatology during the second half of the follow-up period. In contrast, there were no differences in terms of number of episodes, time spent with clinical symptoms, or cycle length between the first and second half of the follow-up period. A subgroup analysis identified 21.9% of patients with consistent data of a worsening during follow-up.

Conclusions

The results suggest that, on average, there is stability or slight improvement of clinical morbidity over the course of BD. Then, worsening of the clinical course may be a feature of a subgroup of patients rather than an inherent characteristic of the disorder. These subgroups or patient profiles could represent an opportunity for further studies to assess clinical, pathophysiologic, and therapeutic features associated with them.
α1A-Adrenergic Receptor Antagonism Improves Erectile and Cavernosal Responses in Rats with Cavernous Nerve Injury and Enhances Neurogenic Responses in Human Corpus Cavernosum from Patients with Erectile Dysfunction Secondary to Radical Prostatectomy
Authors: Martínez-Salamanca Juan I. , La Fuente José M. , Martínez-Salamanca Eduardo , Fernández Argentina , Pepe-Cardoso Augusto J. , Louro Nuno , Carballido Joaquín , Angulo Javier
Published: November 2016

Introduction

Cavernous nerve injury (CNI) in rats and radical prostatectomy (RP) in men result in loss of nitrergic function and increased adrenergic-neurogenic contractions of cavernosal tissue.

Aim

To evaluate the modulation of the α-adrenergic system as a strategy to relieve erectile dysfunction (ED) and functional cavernosal alterations induced by CNI.

Methods

A non-selective α-blocker (phentolamine 1 mg/kg daily), a selective α1A-blocker (silodosin [SILOD] 0.1 mg/kg daily), or vehicle was orally administered for 4 weeks after bilateral crush CNI (BCNI). Erectile and neurogenic responses of the corpus cavernosum (CC) were evaluated. The acute effects of SILOD also were evaluated in vivo (0.03 mg/kg intravenously) and ex vivo (10 nmol/L). The effects of SILOD and tadalafil (TAD) on nitrergic relaxations were determined in human CC from patients with ED with a vascular etiology or ED secondary to RP.

Main Outcome Measures

Erectile responses in vivo in rats and neurogenic contractions and relaxations of rat and human CC.

Results

Long-term treatment with SILOD significantly improved erectile responses and allowed for the potentiation of erectile responses by acute treatment with TAD (0.3 mg/kg intravenously) in rats with BCNI. SILOD partly recovered nitrergic relaxations and normalized neurogenic contractions in CC from rats with BCNI. Long-term treatment with SILOD partly prevented BCNI-induced decreases in neuronal nitric oxide synthase expression. Acute administration of SILOD (0.03 mg/kg intravenously) improved erectile responses in vivo and potentiated nitrergic relaxation and decreased neurogenic contractions ex vivo in CC from rats with BCNI. In human CC from patients with ED with a vascular etiology, TAD (30 nmol/L), SILOD (10 nmol/L), or their combination increased nitrergic relaxations. Potentiation by TAD was lost in human CC from patients with ED after RP but was recovered after co-treatment with SILOD.

Conclusion

α-Adrenergic modulation, especially selective α1A-blockade, improves erectile and cavernosal functions after BCNI. Modulation of the adrenergic system, mainly in combination strategies, could have a role in the management of ED after RP.
Fractional CO2 Laser Treatment of the Vestibule for Patients with Vestibulodynia and Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause: A Pilot Study
Authors: Murina Filippo , Karram Mickey , Salvatore Stefano , Felice Raffaele
Published: November 2016

Introduction

Chronic vulvar pain and burning remains one of the most perplexing problems faced by practicing gynecologists.

Aim

To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of the application of micro-ablative fractional CO2 laser to the vulvar vestibule in the management of patients with vulvar pain from vestibulodynia or genitourinary syndrome of menopause.

Methods

Patients (N = 70) underwent fractional micro-ablative CO2 laser treatment for vestibular pain plus vestibulodynia (n = 37) or genitourinary syndrome of menopause (n = 33). Inclusion criteria were the existence of vestibular atrophic changes and the absence of moderate or severe pelvic floor hypertonic dysfunction.

Main Outcome Measures

A visual analog scale of pain and the Marinoff score of dyspareunia were chosen to evaluate improvement. Grading of vestibular health also was quantified using a four-point scoring system (0 = no atrophy, 3 = severe atrophy). Data were collected at baseline, at weeks 4, 8, and 12, and 4 months after the final treatment.

Results

For visual analog scale and dyspareunia scoring and for the overall vestibular health index scoring, statistically significant improvement was noted after three sessions of vestibular fractional CO2 laser treatment. Improvement gradually increased throughout the study period and was maintained through the 4-month follow-up visit. There was no statistically significant difference in outcomes between the two study groups. No adverse events from fractional CO2 laser treatment were noted. Overall, 67.6% of patients stated significant improvement from the laser procedure.

Conclusion

This preliminary case series showed encouraging results using fractional CO2 laser treatment of the vestibule in women with vestibulodynia and genitourinary syndrome of menopause.
Bank profits, loan activity, and monetary policy: evidence from the FDIC's Historical Statistics on Banking
Authors: Orzechowski Paul E.
Published: November 2016

This paper examines the long‐run relationship between bank profits, loan growth, and monetary policy at different types of profitable banks. U.S. commercial bank data are analyzed from the FDIC's Historical Statistics on Banking from 1966 to 2013. The banks are divided into two groups based on their relative profitability (above or below the average profit rate) to examine their real estate and commercial loan activities. The bank's loan portfolio allocation (i.e., the ratio between real estate and commercial loans) is also examined to see if it has a relationship with monetary policy. The study finds evidence that monetary policy has a slightly larger negative relationship with real estate loans in banks with above average profits than with their less profitable peers. The analysis also finds evidence suggesting that commercial loan growth in low‐profit banks may be more sensitive to their loan loss provisions than to monetary policy. The loan portfolio ratio shows a significant negative relationship with monetary policy and a positive relationship with provisions. The analysis reveals a positive coefficient or ‘perverse result’ between some of the commercial loan growth measures and monetary policy that may be explained by portfolio shifting at banks.
The American School of Empire
Authors: Larkin Edward
Published: November 2016

Early American artists and political thinkers wrestled with the challenges of forming a cohesive, if not coherent, culture and political structure to organize the young republic and its diverse peoples. The American School of Empire shows how this American idea of empire emerged through a dialogue with British forms of empire, becoming foundational to how the US organized its government and providing early Americans with the framework for thinking about the relations between states and the disparate peoples and cultures that defined them. Edward Larkin places special emphasis on the forms of the novel and history painting, which were crucial vehicles for the articulation of the American vision of empire in the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries.
The Use of Milrinone in Patients with Delayed Cerebral Ischemia Following Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: A Systematic Review
Authors: Lannes Marcelo , Zeiler Frederick , Guichon Céline , Teitelbaum Jeanne
Published: November 2016

Objective:The purpose of this article is to provide a systematic review of the evidence supporting the use of milrinone for the management of delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI) following subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH).Design:Primary outcomes were functional neurological status and the incidence of cerebral infarction. Search strategies adapted to the different databases were developed by a professional librarian. Medline, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library database, Web of Science, SCOPUS, BIOSIS, Global Health, Health Star, Open SIGLE, Google Scholar and the New York Academy of Medicine Gray Literature were searched as well as clinical trials databases and the proceedings of several scientific meetings. Quality of the evidence for these outcomes across studies was adjudicated using the GRADE Working Group criteria.Results:The search resulted in 284 citations after elimination of duplicates. Of those 9 conference proceedings and 15 studies met inclusion criteria and consisted of case reports, case series and two comparative studies: one non-randomized study with physiological outcomes only and a case series with historical controls. There was considerable variation in dosing and in co-interventions and no case control or randomized controlled studies were found.Conclusion:There is currently only very low quality evidence to support the use of milrinone to improve important outcomes in patients with delayed cerebral ischemia secondary to subarachnoid hemorrhage. Further research is needed to clarify the value and risks of this medication in patients with SAH.
Electoral Rules and Legislative Particularism: Evidence from U.S. State Legislatures
Authors: BAGASHKA TANYA , CLARK JENNIFER HAYES
Published: November 2016

We argue that state legislative politics is qualitatively different from national congressional politics in the extent to which it focuses on localized and geographically specific legislation salient to subconstituencies within a legislative district. Whereas congressional politics focuses on casework benefits for individual constituents, state legislative politics is more oriented to the delivery of localized benefits for groups of citizens in specific areas within a district, fostering a geographically specific group connection. A primary way to build such targeted geographical support is for members to introduce particularistic legislation designed to aid their specific targeted geographical area within the district. We argue that this is primarily a function of electoral rules. Using original sponsorship data from U.S. state houses, we demonstrate that greater district magnitude and more inclusive selection procedures such as open primaries are associated with more particularism. Our findings provide strong support for a voter-group alignment model of electoral politics distinct from the personal vote/electoral connection model that characterizes U.S. congressional politics and is more akin to patterns of geographically specific group-oriented electoral politics found in Europe and throughout the world.
Political Commitment and the Value of Partisanship
Authors: YPI LEA
Published: November 2016

This article defends the value of partisanship for political commitment. It clarifies what political commitment is, how it resembles and differs from other forms of commitment, and under what conditions it can prosper. It argues that political commitment is sustained and enhanced when agents devoted to particular political projects form a lasting associative relation that coordinates future action both on behalf of their future selves and of similarly committed others. Partisanship contributes to the feasibility of such projects, and helps strengthen them from a motivational and epistemic perspective. Although partisanship is also often criticized for sacrificing individuals’ independence of thought and action, if we value political commitment, this is a necessary trade-off.