bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shorebirds as important vectors for plant dispersal in Europe
Authors: Lovas‐Kiss Ádám , Sánchez Marta I. , Wilkinson David M. , Coughlan Neil E. , Alves José A. , Green Andy J.
Published: November 2018

Shorebirds (Charadriiformes) undergo rapid migrations with potential for long‐distance dispersal (LDD) of plants. We studied the frequency of endozoochory by shorebirds in different parts of Europe covering a broad latitudinal range and different seasons. We assessed whether plants dispersed conformed to morphological dispersal syndromes. A total of 409 excreta samples (271 faeces and 138 pellets) were collected from redshank Tringa totanus, black‐winged stilt Himantopus himantopus, pied avocet Recurvirostra avosetta, northern lapwing Vanellus vanellus, Eurasian curlew Numenius arquata and black‐tailed godwit Limosa limosa in south‐west Spain, north‐west England, southern Ireland and Iceland in 2005 and 2016, and intact seeds were extracted and identified. Godwits were sampled just before or after migratory movements between England and Iceland. The germinability of seeds was tested. Intact diaspores were recovered from all bird species and study areas, and were present in 13% of samples overall. Thirteen plant families were represented, including Charophyceae and 26 angiosperm taxa. Only four species had an ‘endozoochory syndrome’. Four alien species were recorded. Ellenberg values classified three species as aquatic and 20 as terrestrial. Overall, 89% of seeds were from terrestrial plants, and 11% from aquatic plants. Average seed length was higher in redshank pellets than in their faeces. Six species were germinated, none of which had an endozoochory syndrome. Seeds were recorded during spring and autumn migration. Plant species recorded have broad latitudinal ranges consistent with LDD via shorebirds. Crucially, morphological syndromes do not adequately predict LDD potential, and more empirical work is required to identify which plants are dispersed by shorebirds. Incorporating endozoochory by shorebirds and other migratory waterbirds into plant distribution models would allow us to better understand the natural processes that facilitated colonization of oceanic islands, or to improve predictions of how plants will respond to climate change, or how alien species spread.
Potential effects of global climate change on fisheries in the Trasimeno Lake (Italy), with special reference to the goldfish Carassius auratus invasion and the endemic southern pike Esox cisalpinus decline
Authors: Carosi Antonella , Ghetti Lucia , Padula Rosalba , Lorenzoni Massimo
Published: November 2018

Global climate changes have led to a gradual warming of the planet, resulting in decreased precipitation and rising temperatures in Mediterranean inland waters. In Trasimeno Lake, the largest shallow lake in Italy, some non‐native fish species have probably benefited from these changes as they are thermophilic and characterised by wider habitat preferences. Fish data collected by gillnets and fyke nets between 1956 and 2016, and by electrofishing in 1993 and 2014, were used to analyse changes over time in the fish community in relation to environmental conditions. An explosion in goldfish Carassius auratus (L.), following its introduction in 1988, coupled with water level fluctuations and reduced transparency, contributed to the reduction in commercial fish catch in the lake, and to the decline of the endemic southern pike Esox cisalpinus Bianco & Delmastro, already threatened by reduced spawning habitat and interspecific competition with other non‐native predatory fishes.
Punching above their weight: Large release of greenhouse gases from small agricultural dams
Authors: Ollivier Quinn R. , Maher Damien T. , Pitfield Chris , Macreadie Peter I.
Published: November 2018

Freshwater ecosystems play a major role in global carbon cycling through the breakdown of organic material and release of greenhouse gases (GHGs). Carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4) emissions from lakes, wetlands, reservoirs and small natural ponds have been well studied, however, the GHG emissions of highly abundant, small‐scale (<0.01 km2) agricultural dams (small stream and run‐off impoundments) are still unknown. Here, we measured the diffusive CO2 and CH4 flux of 77 small agricultural dams within south‐east Australia. The GHG emissions from these waterbodies, which are currently unaccounted for in GHG inventories, amounted to 11.12 ± 2.59 g CO2‐equivalent m2/day, a value 3.43 times higher than temperate reservoir emissions. Upscaling these results to the entire state of Victoria, Australia, resulted in a farm dam CO2‐equivalent/day emission rate of 4,853 tons, 3.1 times higher than state‐wide reservoir emissions in spite of farm dams covering only 0.94 times the comparative area. We also show that CO2 and CH4 emission rates were both significantly positively correlated with dissolved nitrate concentrations, and significantly higher in livestock rearing farm dams when compared to cropping farm dams. The results from this study demonstrate that small agricultural farm dams can be a major source of greenhouse gas emissions, thereby justifying their inclusion in global carbon budgets.
Environmental and physiochemical controls on coral calcification along a latitudinal temperature gradient in Western Australia
Authors: Ross Claire L. , DeCarlo Thomas M. , McCulloch Malcolm T.
Published: November 2018

The processes that occur at the micro‐scale site of calcification are fundamental to understanding the response of coral growth in a changing world. However, our mechanistic understanding of chemical processes driving calcification is still evolving. Here, we report the results of a long‐term in situ study of coral calcification rates, photo‐physiology, and calcifying fluid (cf) carbonate chemistry (using boron isotopes, elemental systematics, and Raman spectroscopy) for seven species (four genera) of symbiotic corals growing in their natural environments at tropical, subtropical, and temperate locations in Western Australia (latitudinal range of ~11°). We find that changes in net coral calcification rates are primarily driven by pHcf and carbonate ion concentration []cf in conjunction with temperature and DICcf. Coral pHcf varies with latitudinal and seasonal changes in temperature and works together with the seasonally varying DICcf to optimize []cf at species‐dependent levels. Our results indicate that corals shift their pHcf to adapt and/or acclimatize to their localized thermal regimes. This biological response is likely to have critical implications for predicting the future of coral reefs under CO2‐driven warming and acidification.
On future research directions: Temporality and permanency in the study of migration and settler colonialism in Canada
Authors: Madokoro Laura
Published: November 2018

Building on the historiography surrounding existing studies of migration and settler colonialism in Canada, this article considers possible future research directions in these fields with a few to squaring epistemological differences in how the permanency and implications of human movement are understood.
Peril and possibility: A contemplation of the current state of migration history and settler colonial studies in Canada
Authors: Madokoro Laura
Published: November 2018

This paper provides an overview of the trajectory of research on immigration history, now migration history, in Canada over the past 50 years and highlights recent points of intersection with the newly established field of settler colonial studies. The article concludes by positing questions about the possibility of building on these points of intersection and dissension in future research in these fields.
Efficacy and safety of switching to dolutegravir plus emtricitabine/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) or elvitegravir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/TDF in virologically suppressed HIV‐infected patients in clinical practice: results from a multicentre, observational study
Authors: Baldin G , Ciccullo A , Capetti A , Rusconi S , Sterrantino G , Cossu MV , Giacomelli A , Lagi F , Latini A , Bagella P , De Luca A , Di Giambenedetto S , Madeddu G
Published: November 2018

Objectives

The aim of the study was to compare the efficacy and tolerability of switching antiretroviral therapy to dolutegravir + emtricitabine/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) with those of switching to elvitegravir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/TDF in clinical practice.

Methods

In a multicentre real‐life observational study, we analysed data for HIV‐infected patients on antiretroviral treatment with viral load < 50 HIV‐1 RNA copies/mL switching to dolutegravir + emtricitabine/TDF (dolutegravir group) or elvitegravir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/TDF (elvitegravir group). Follow‐up was censored at 48 weeks.

Results

The 48‐week estimated proportion maintaining virological efficacy was 96.1% with dolutegravir (n = 123) and 95.4% with elvitegravir (n = 186; P = 0.941). Patients in the dolutegravir group showed more treatment discontinuations, but these were mainly as a result of simplification. The elvitegravir group showed more discontinuations because of renal adverse events (2.7% versus 0% with dolutegravir). Interestingly, no difference was observed between the two regimens in central nervous system toxicity‐related discontinuations. Switching to dolutegravir was associated with a better blood lipid profile.

Conclusions

Switching to dolutegravir + emtricitabine/TDF was associated with similar efficacy and tolerability to switching to elvitegravir/cobicistat/emtricitabine/TDF in virologically suppressed patients in clinical practice, although reasons for discontinuation showed differences between regimens. These results should be interpreted with caution, as this is a nonrandomized comparison.
Meta‐analysis of risk and protective factors for gastrointestinal bleeding after percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Wang Lan , Pei Dajun , Ouyang Yan‐Qiong , Nie Xiaofei
Published: November 2018

Aim

To quantitatively analyse factors related to gastrointestinal bleeding after percutaneous coronary intervention and provide evidence for the prevention of gastrointestinal bleeding.

Data Sources and Review Methods

Cochrane Library, Pubmed, Embase, and Ovid databases were searched from inception to 31 May 2018; case‐control and cohort studies published in English were included. The methodological quality of each study was assessed by two independent reviewers using the Newcastle‐Ottawa Scale. Meta‐analysis was performed using Revman version 5.3.

Results

A total of 16 publications yielded data about risk factors. It was found that age older than 70 years, age (per 10‐year increase), female sex, baseline anaemia, history of smoking, history of using alcohol, history of peptic ulcer disease, chronic renal failure, previous bleeding, shock, congestive heart failure, acute myocardial infarction, prior use of inotropic medications, and prior use of antithrombotic medications were positively associated with gastrointestinal bleeding. Four articles yielded data about protective factors. It was found that proton‐pump inhibitor and bivalirudin therapy were negatively associated with gastrointestinal bleeding after percutaneous coronary intervention.

Conclusion

This research found risk and protective factors which can assist in effective management of this potentially fatal complication.
An anatomy of zero‐hour contracts in the UK
Authors: Koumenta Maria , Williams Mark
Published: November 2018

We present the first attempt to locate zero‐hour contract (ZHC) jobs—jobs that lack a guaranteed minimum number of hours—within theoretical frameworks of the employment relationship and occupational class and empirically explore their characteristics using successive UK Labour Force Survey. In line with these theories, we find this contentious form of employment to be strongly differentiated by the nature of occupational tasks and to overlap with nonstandard employment features (e.g. part‐time and temporary). They are also highly concentrated in a small number of occupations and sectors, with over half of ZHC jobs found in just 10 occupations. We further show that ZHCs are associated with indicators of inferior job quality such as low pay and underemployment. Although we find no evidence that ZHCs are a particularly pervasive feature of the UK labour market, further growth cannot be ruled out in certain occupations.
Dehydrated Na6[AlSiO4]6 sodalite as a promising SO2 sorbent material: A first principles thermodynamics prediction
Authors: Wang Yinglou , Jiang Yong , Hu Shuanglin , Peng Sai , Xu Canhui , Lu Anxian
Published: November 2018

The capture of sulfur dioxide (SO2) using dehydrated Na6[AlSiO4]6 sodalite was investigated using the first principles density functional theory calculations and thermodynamics analysis. The adsorption geometries, energetics, and electronic structures were predicted with the increasing number of SO2 adsorbates. Upon adsorption, the S atom of single SO2 molecule tends to align to the framework O2− and the two oxygen atoms are oriented to the framework Na+, through electrostatic interactions and with a minor charge transfer. Increasing the number of SO2 adsorbates, the Na6[AlSiO4]6 sodalite framework shrinks first and then expands. Statistical thermodynamics analysis suggests that the capture reaches its saturation limit of four SO2 molecules per Na6[AlSiO4]6 formula (~300 mg/g) at room temperature and a low SO2 partial pressure of 0.001 atm, indicating that dehydrated Na6[AlSiO4]6 can be an efficient SO2 sorbent even at its extremely low concentrations. Higher SO2 partial pressures lead to a higher capture capacity. A low baking temperature of 100‐150°C can efficiently release the adsorbed SO2 and hence restore the capture capacity of Na6[AlSiO4]6.
Slag‐fly ash and slag‐metakaolin binders: Part II—Properties of precursors and NMR study of poorly ordered phases
Authors: Sankar Kaushik , Sutrisno Andre , Kriven Waltraud M.
Published: November 2018

Sodium silicate‐activated slag‐fly ash binders (SFB) and slag‐metakaolin binders (SMKB) are room‐temperature hardening binders that have excellent mechanical properties and a significantly lower carbon footprint than ordinary Portland cement (OPC). The aim of this study was to use nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy to study the nanostructure of poorly ordered phases in SFB by varying slag/fly ash ratio, curing time, and curing temperature. Fly ash was completely substituted with metakaolin and the effect of this substitution on the poorly ordered phases was studied. It was observed that the proportion of geopolymer was generally higher in SMKB when compared to SFB. Although C–N–A–S–H and geopolymer coexisted in SFB and SMKB, C–N–A–S–H was the major product phase formed. The mean chain length (MCL) and the structure of C–N–A–S–H gel were estimated as a function of time, temperature, and slag/fly ash ratio. The MCL was found to have a negative correlation with slag/fly ash ratio and Ca/(Si+Al) ratio, but positive correlation with curing temperature. The average Si/Al atom ratios for geopolymers were also estimated. Lastly, the increased proportion of five‐coordinated aluminum (Al(V)) in metakaolin resulted in the decreased unreacted metakaolin in the hardened binder but did not increase the geopolymer content.
The role of psychological distress in the relationship between the severity of pressure injury and pain intensity in hospitalized adults
Authors: Kim Junglyun , Lyon Debra , Weaver Michael T. , Keenan Gail , Chen Xinguang (Jim)
Published: November 2018

Aims

To examine the effect of psychological distress in mediating the relationship between the severity of pressure injury and pain intensity in hospitalized adults.

Background

Despite the prevalence of pressure injury (previously known as pressure ulcers) in hospitalized adults, the current knowledge of pain associated with pressure injury is limited and findings are inconsistent. There is also a lack of understanding of the relationship between psychological distress and pain from pressure injury.

Design

Retrospective cross‐sectional secondary analysis of data from electronic health records.

Methods

The data were retrieved from the third day of admission in the period between 2013 ‐ 2016 through the Integrated Data Repository (IDR). Electronic health records were reviewed to collect data as needed. The mediation effect was tested by using path analysis implemented through Mplus.

Results

Path analysis revealed that the severity of pressure injuries and psychological distress have significant direct effects on pain intensity in hospitalized adults. However, the relationship between the severity of pressure injury and pain intensity was not significantly mediated by psychological distress.

Conclusion

Hospitalized adults who have more severe pressure injury and more treatments for psychological distress experienced greater pain intensity. Healthcare providers must pay attention to treating psychological distress among hospitalized adults to manage pain. Further study is needed to validate these findings and it should incorporate more appropriate measures of psychological distress. The lack of standardized nursing documentation in electronic health records severely limits the usefulness of data from electronic health records for nursing research.
Mathematical modeling of wheat hydration: Process and starch properties
Authors: Mattioda Fernanda , de Matos Jorge Luiz Mario , Jorge Regina Maria Matos
Published: November 2018

Previous studies of kinetic and mathematical modeling of wheat hydration did not present the thermal and morphological properties of the starch, nor did they investigate the thermodynamic properties involved in hydration. Therefore, in this study the starch properties were determined and related to the hydration kinetic, as well as the mathematical models were fitted to experimental data and the thermodynamic properties were estimated. The thermal and morphological characterization of the starch shows that there was a partial gelatinization of the starch in one of the temperatures tested. Peleg and Omoto‐Jorge Model allowed satisfactorily describing the moisture gain under various thermal conditions, and generalized Peleg equation best represented the experimental data. The thermodynamic properties involved in wheat hydration were estimated, and this allows us to conclude that the process is endothermic and non‐spontaneous.

Practical applications

This study allowed to investigate the wheat hydration and to understand the phenomena involved in the process, from the kinetic study and the thermal and morphological properties of the starch. This information can help, in a simple and practical way, in the monitoring and control of industrial processes and in the development of new wheat products. Mathematical models were fitted to the hydration experimental data, which allow the simulation and control of the industrial hydration process in an inexpensive and simple way. In addition, this study presents the estimation of the thermodynamic properties of hydration process, which makes it possible to investigate the energy involved in the process.
Physicochemical properties and antioxidant stability of microencapsulated marjoram extract prepared by co‐crystallization method
Authors: Sarabandi Khashayar , Mahoonak Alireza Sadeghi , Akbari Mahdieh
Published: November 2018

In this study, the physicochemical characteristics of the microencapsulated marjoram extract powders such as entrapment yield (EY), loading capacity (LC), DPPH* radical scavenging activity, thermal characteristics (DSC), chemical structure (FTIR), and surface morphology (SEM) was investigated. Finally, the maintenance yield of total phenolic compounds and antioxidant properties of the co‐crystallized powder were compared with the spray‐dried powders in different conditions (75% relative humidity, artificial light, darkness, and at temperature of 4°C) during 4 months storage. The color and loading capacity of powder samples was significantly affected by concentrations of the extract. The encapsulation efficiency of co‐crystallized products was about 83%. DSC and FTIR graphs indicate lack of interaction between core and matrix components. The surface morphology of particles showed porous structure and the irregular holes among the agglomerates. Also, stability tests indicated a better performance of co‐crystallization process than the spray‐drying in maintaining phenolic compounds during different storage conditions.

Practical applications

Marjoram has several health benefits and its bioactive components can be used to produce functional foods. However, due to many problems including an unpleasant taste and instability of their polyphenols during storage, use of its liquid extract made is difficult. Encapsulation by co‐crystallization process due to its unique features is a promising method for protection of sensitive bioactive components such as phenolic compounds. Sucrose as a safe and food grade carrier is main matrix in this process and widely used in various food industries. The co‐crystallized Marjoram extract can be used as a source of antioxidants in the production of functional foods, confectionery, chocolate, candy products, and a variety of instant drinks powders.
How thyroid hormones and their inhibitors affect cartilage growth and shape in the frogXenopus laevis
Authors: Rose Christopher S. , Cahill Jennifer W.
Published: November 2018

Understanding how skeleton changes shape in ontogeny is fundamental to understanding how its shape diversifies in phylogeny. Amphibians pose a special case because their jaw and throat skeleton consists of cartilages that are dramatically reshaped midway through life to support new feeding and breathing styles. Although amphibian metamorphosis is commonly studied by immersing larvae in thyroid hormones (TH), how individual cartilages respond to TH is poorly understood. This study documents the effects of larval stage and TH type (T4 vs. T3), dose and deprivation on the size, shape and morphogenesis of the lower jaw and ceratohyal cartilages in the frogXenopus laevis. It uses thyroid inhibitors to isolate the effects of each hormone at specific concentrations. It also deconstructs the TH responses into the effects on individual dimensions, and uses measures of percent change to eliminate the effects of body size and growth rate variation. As stage increases, T4 and T3 responses become increasingly similar to each other and to natural remodeling; the differences at low and intermediate stages result largely from abnormal responses to T3. Most notably, the beak‐like lower jaw commonly observed at the lowest stage in other studies results largely from arrested growth of cartilage. TH responses are superimposed upon the growth typical for each stage so that cartilages can attain postmetamorphic shapes through dimensional changes that exceed those of natural metamorphosis. Using thyroid inhibitors alters the outcome of TH‐induced remodeling, and T4 has almost the same capacity to induce metamorphic shape changes as T3. The results have implications for understanding how the starting shapes of larval elements affect morphogenesis, how chondrocytes behave to change cartilage shape, and how intracellular processing of TH might contribute to interspecific differences in shape change. Also, the data on animal mortality and which stages and doses most closely replicate natural remodeling have practical value for researchers who treatXenopustadpoles with TH.
Whole‐ and partial‐body cryotherapy in aesthetic dermatology: Evaluating a trendy treatment
Authors: O’Connor Mackenzie , Wang Jordan V. , Saedi Nazanin
Published: November 2018

This manuscript addresses the use of whole‐ and partial‐body cryotherapy in aesthetic dermatology. Over the past several years, these have become trendy treatments that have been marketed for many purported benefits in overall skin appearance and skin health. With increased access through cryotherapy facilities and medical spas, whole‐ and partial‐body cryotherapy have grown in popularity. Unfortunately, many of the advertised claims have little, if any, scientific evidence behind them. Here, we summarize the data available in the literature. As trends evolve, clinicians should continue to be knowledgeable about them and their evidence in order to properly counsel patients appropriately.
Access and closure management of large bore femoral arterial access
Authors: Kaki Amir , Blank Nimrod , Alraies M. Chadi , Kajy Marvin , Grines Cindy L. , Hasan Reema , Htun Wah Wah , Glazier James , Mohamad Tamam , Elder Mahir , Schreiber Theodore
Published: November 2018

Femoral and radial artery access continue to be the standard of care for percutaneous coronary interventions. Cardiac catheterization has progressed to encompass a wide range of diagnostic and interventional procedures including coronary, peripheral, endovascular, and structural heart disease interventions. Despite advanced technology to make these procedures safe, bleeding, and vascular complications continue to be a substantial source of morbidity, especially in patients undergoing large‐bore access procedures. New variations of percutaneous devices have reduced complications associated with these procedures. However, safe vascular access with effective hemostasis requires special techniques which have not been well described in the literature. Large‐bore femoral artery access is feasible, safe, and associated with low complication rates when a protocol is implemented. Wayne State University, Detroit Medical Center Heart Hospital is a tertiary care, high‐volume center for endovascular, structural heart and complex high risk indicated procedures with more 150 procedures involving mechanical circulatory support (MCS) devices per year. In this manuscript, we describe our approach to femoral artery large‐bore sheath insertion and management. Our protocol includes proper identification of the puncture site, device selection, insertion, assessment of limb perfusion while on prolong MCS support, and hemostasis techniques after sheath removal.
Recent progress in follicular lymphoma in Japan and characteristics of the duodenal type
Authors: Yoshino Tadashi , Takata Katsuyoshi , Tanaka Takehiro , Sato Yasuharu , Tari Akira , Okada Hiroyuki
Published: November 2018

The incidence of lymphoma has rapidly increased over the last 40 years in Japan, following a trend that is very similar to that of breast cancer. In particular, the relative frequency of follicular lymphoma (FL) has reached that in Western countries. Given its indolence, a “watch‐and‐wait” approach is often applied to FL patients. We have shown that FL is often detected in the second portion of the duodenum and has a distinct follicular dendritic cell distribution and heavy chain variable usage similar to mucosa‐associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma. Although the t(14;18)(q32;q21) frequency is the same as in the nodal subtype of FL, there are also ongoing mutations, immunopositivity for cluster of differentiation 10 and B‐cell lymphoma (BCL)6, and overexpression of BCL2. Gene expression profiling has shown that it is more similar to gastric MALT lymphoma than to nodal FL. Duodenal‐type FL lacks the activation‐induced cytidine deaminase (AID) expression observed in nodal ones, although this may be compensated for by BTB domain and CNC homolog 2. Based on these findings, duodenal‐type FL has been included in the Revised 4th edition of the World Health Organization classification published in late 2017.
Developing an optimized texture mapping for photorealistic 3D buildings
Authors: Lee Jungil , Yang Byungyun
Published: November 2018

Texture mapping generates photorealistic representations of three‐dimensional (3D) geometric objects and enhances the spatial perception of areas of interest. Over the past two decades, even though various approaches for 3D urban models have been investigated, their use has been limited because of the lack of spatial accuracy, details, and the complex processes. It is difficult to maintain highly detailed texture information without using a hybrid of aerial image and ground‐based imaging techniques, which are costly. Furthermore, it is hard to develop a fully automated process for 3D urban mapping that achieves high spatial accuracy. With regard to the issues, this research aims to develop a semi‐automated process for 3D building models that would help image‐based approaches. It helps acquire qualified texture information and improve the appearance of building façades in a large city. In particular, this research first investigates an optimal overlap of consecutive aerial images that generates sufficient information to texture each façade, thus making this process more cost‐effective. Second, this research develops an application to semi‐automatically build 3D buildings and textured 3D buildings. The application is developed in C++. The textured 3D building models are quantitatively and qualitatively assessed to determine the usability of the semi‐automated process.
Color Naming Reflects Both Perceptual Structure and Communicative Need
Authors: Zaslavsky Noga , Kemp Charles , Tishby Naftali , Regier Terry
Published: November 2018

Gibson et al. () argued that color naming is shaped by patterns of communicative need. In support of this claim, they showed that color naming systems across languages support more precise communication about warm colors than cool colors, and that the objects we talk about tend to be warm‐colored rather than cool‐colored. Here, we present new analyses that alter this picture. We show that greater communicative precision for warm than for cool colors, and greater communicative need, may both be explained by perceptual structure. However, using an information‐theoretic analysis, we also show that color naming across languages bears signs of communicative need beyond what would be predicted by perceptual structure alone. We conclude that color naming is shaped both by perceptual structure, as has traditionally been argued, and by patterns of communicative need, as argued by Gibson et al. —although for reasons other than those they advanced.
Chronic dialysis in patients with end‐stage renal disease: Relevance to kidney xenotransplantation
Authors: Jagdale Abhijit , Cooper David K. C. , Iwase Hayato , Gaston Robert S.
Published: November 2018

Renal allotransplantation clearly offers better survival and quality of life for end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) patients than chronic dialysis. The median waiting time for a deceased donor kidney in a suitable ESRD patient is 3.9 years. The initial candidates for pig kidney xenotransplantation will be those with ESRD unlikely to receive an allograft within a reasonable period of time. It is thus reasonable to ascertain whether clinical trials of xenotransplantation might likewise offer superior outcomes. Chronic dialysis in patients with ESRD is associated with poor quality of life, significant morbidity, and relatively high mortality, with only 56% surviving 3 years and 42% at 5 years. However, a significant number of these patients, because of comorbidities, frailty, etc, would not be considered for renal allotransplantation and likely not for xenotransplantation. As genetically engineered pig kidneys have satisfactorily supported life in immunosuppressed nonhuman primates for many months or even more than a year, consideration in carefully selected patients could be given to pig kidney xenotransplantation. We suggest that, in order to give a patient the best possible outcome, the pig kidney could be transplanted pre‐emptively (before dialysis is initiated). If it fails at any stage, the patient would then begin chronic dialysis and continue to await an allograft. The present (limited) evidence is that failure of a pig graft would not be detrimental to a subsequent allograft.
Dynamics Characteristics and Diagnosis of a Rotor-Bearing's System Through a Dimensional Analysis Approach: An Experimental Study
Authors: Desavale R. G.
Published: November 2018

In this work, vibration characteristic diagnosis of misalignment rotor in loosely fitted bearing is investigated using dimensional analysis (DA) approach. A comprehensive empirical model (EM) using nondimensional parameters is developed to diagnose the rotor-bearing system, and EM model has been validated through an experimental setup developed in-house. Experiments are performed for various defects such as misalignment and bearing looseness. The EM results can be used to monitor the real-time conditions of the rotor-bearing system. This work also presents the effect of misalignment and bearing looseness under various load and speed conditions. Further, work has been extended to predict the combined effect of bearing looseness and misalignment. It has been found that EM model predictions of the vibration amplitude are better when compared to experimental results.
SiO2 etch characteristics and environmental impact of Ar/C3F6O chemistry
Authors: Lee Ho Seok , Yang Kyung Chae , Kim Soo Gang , Shin Ye Ji , Suh Dae Woong , Song Han Dock , Lee Nae Eung , Yeom Geun Young
Published: November 2018

Perfluorocarbon gases are commonly used for nanoscale etching in semiconductor processing; however, they have the disadvantages of a long lifetime and inducing global warming effects when released into the atmosphere. In this study, the SiO2 etch characteristics and global warming effects of C3F6O gas chemistry, which has a low global warming potential, were compared with those of C4F8 chemistry, which is commonly used in semiconductor processing. Using Ar/C3F6O, the SiO2 etch rate was higher and the etch selectivity of SiO2 over the amorphous carbon hardmask layer was lower than the etch rate and etch selectivity using Ar/C4F8/O2, with all other etch conditions the same. Furthermore, using Ar/C3F6O exhibited more anisotropic SiO2 etch profiles by suppressing the bowing, narrowing, and necking effects compared to the etch profiles using Ar/C4F8/O2. The global warming effects were evaluated by calculating the million metric ton carbon equivalents (MMTCEs) from the volumetric concentrations of the emitted by-product species and process gases, and the results showed that, in the optimized conditions, Ar/C3F6O exhibited a lower environmental impact with an MMTCE of <24% than that of Ar/C4F8/O2. Therefore, it is suggested that the Ar/C3F6O gas mixture is a potential replacement for Ar/C4F8/O2 because of its lower MMTCE and acceptable SiO2 etch characteristics.
Enhanced uptake of plasmid at boronic acid decorated linear polyethylenimines results in higher transfection efficiency
Authors: Yadav Santosh , Kumar Pradeep
Published: November 2018

High molecular weight polyethylenimines (PEIs) are considered as gold standard for transfection studies; however, cytotoxicity associated with branched ones and lower charge density on linear PEIs as well as lower uptake of the resulting deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) complexes have limited their applications in clinical studies. In order to address these concerns and improve the uptake efficiency of the DNA complexes of linear polyethylenimine (25 kDa), the polymer was grafted with variable amounts of butylboronic acid to obtain a small series of linear polyethylenimine-butylboronic acid polymers. These modified polymers were allowed to interact with plasmid DNA and the resulting complexes were characterized by physicochemical techniques. Dynamic light scattering data showed the formation of nanosized complexes with positive zeta potential values. Furthermore, when these complexes were evaluated in vitro, they not only showed enhanced cell viability but also exhibited higher transfection efficiency as compared to native linear and branched PEIs and a commercially available standard transfection reagent, Lipofectamine 2000.
Thermal atomic layer deposition of Sn metal using SnCl4 and a vapor phase silyl dihydropyrazine reducing agent
Authors: Stevens Eric C. , Mousa Moataz Bellah M. , Parsons Gregory N.
Published: November 2018

This work explores a novel, thermal atomic layer deposition (ALD) process to deposit tin metal at a low temperature. The authors employ 1,4-bis(trimethylsilyl)-1,4-dihydropyrazine (DHP) to reduce SnCl4 on silicon substrates. The authors explored a range of temperatures between 130 and 210 °C to determine the ALD window, which was found to be 170–210 °C. The authors show that this process yields a growth rate of ∼0.3 Å per cycle at 190 °C. Furthermore, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy results showed that the film impurities are reduced for depositions within the ALD window. The reaction mechanism was explored using in situ mass spectrometry and in situ quartz crystal microbalance (QCM). Within the ALD temperature window, the QCM results showed a saturated mass gain during the SnCl4 exposure and a net mass loss during the DHP dose. Consistent with the QCM results, in situ mass spectroscopy data indicate that the DHP exposure step removes surface Cl via formation of volatile trimethylsilyl chloride and pyrazine by-products, effectively reducing the oxidation state of surface-bound Sn. This work is the first thermal Sn metal ALD process to be reported in literature and the oxidation/reduction chemistry presented here may be applied to other metal precursors, increasing the applicability of metal ALD use in industry.
Rebounding motion of a highly elastic ball between two parallel matte plates
Authors: Liu Songling , Guan Guoye , Peng Shuting , Lin Fang
Published: November 2018

If a highly elastic ball is thrown into the space between two parallel matte plates, under some circumstances, the ball might be projected back in the opposite direction after bounding a few times. In this paper, a theoretical model, which describes the transformation of the ball's centroid velocity and angular velocity before and after a collision, as well as its motion in the air between two collisions, is established and then verified by experiments. In addition, the coefficient of restitution between the ball and the plates are fitted. Numerical simulations were performed to discuss the conditions under which the ball would rebound back and its various rebounding modes that might exist.
A matrix exponential approach to radioactive decay equations
Authors: Levy Edmond
Published: November 2018

This paper demonstrates how the Bateman solution to the radioactive decay equations can be derived using the matrix exponential function. It is shown that when the matrix has triangular form, the elements for the matrix function satisfy a recursive form from which a simple routine can be developed to perform calculations. A compact expression for the solution is found by showing that these elements can also be represented in terms of divided differences of the exponential function. With little additional effort, the approach can be developed to yield solutions to more general forms of these equations.
The size of the tongue movement area affects the temporal coordination of consonants and vowels—A proof of concept on investigating speech rhythm
Authors: Tomaschek Fabian , Leemann Adrian
Published: November 2018

Recent research has revealed substantial between-speaker variation in speech rhythm, which in effect refers to the coordination of consonants and vowels over time. In the current proof-of-concept study, the hypothesis was investigated that these idiosyncrasies arise, in part, from differences in the tongue's movement amplitude. Speech rhythm was parameterized by means of the percentage over which speech is vocalic (%V) in the German pronoun “sie” [ziː]. The findings support the hypothesis: all else being equal, idiosyncratic %V values behaved proportionally to a speaker's tongue movement area. This research underlines the importance of studying language-external factors, such as a speaker's individual tongue movement behavior, to investigate variation in temporal coordination.
Listening through hearing aids affects spatial perception and speech intelligibility in normal-hearing listeners
Authors: Cubick Jens , Buchholz Jörg M. , Best Virginia , Lavandier Mathieu , Dau Torsten
Published: November 2018

Cubick and Dau [(2016). Acta Acust. Acust. 102, 547–557] showed that speech reception thresholds (SRTs) in noise, obtained with normal-hearing listeners, were significantly higher with hearing aids (HAs) than without. Some listeners reported a change in their spatial perception of the stimuli due to the HA processing, with auditory images often being broader and closer to the head or even internalized. The current study investigated whether worse speech intelligibility with HAs might be explained by distorted spatial perception and the resulting reduced ability to spatially segregate the target speech from the interferers. SRTs were measured in normal-hearing listeners with or without HAs in the presence of three interfering talkers or speech-shaped noises. Furthermore, listeners were asked to sketch their spatial perception of the acoustic scene. Consistent with the previous study, SRTs increased with HAs. Spatial release from masking was lower with HAs than without. The effects were similar for noise and speech maskers and appeared to be accounted for by changes to energetic masking. This interpretation was supported by results from a binaural speech intelligibility model. Even though the sketches indicated a change of spatial perception with HAs, no direct link between spatial perception and segregation of talkers could be shown.
Adolescent Weight and Health Behaviors and Their Associations With Individual, Social, and Parental Factors
Authors: Baker Kayla M. , Healy Sean , Rice David J. , Garcia Jeanette M.
Published: November 2018

Background: To examine the associations and differences between gender and weight classification for physical activity (PA) and individual, social, and parental factors. Methods: Data from wave 2 of the “Growing up in Ireland” national study were used, resulting in a sample of 7525 13-year-old adolescents. Information on factors affecting adolescents’ social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development was collected. Results: Overweight (OW) adolescents were more likely to exercise and restrict food for weight loss and less likely to perform moderate to vigorous PA than normal weight adolescents. Parent body mass index was associated with adolescent body mass index for OW and normal weight adolescents, with the strongest association seen with OW females. Parents of OW adolescents considered themselves to be more OW and less physically active than parents of normal weight adolescents. Furthermore, for all groups, a greater amount of moderate to vigorous PA was associated with less television viewing, greater PA of parents, and a greater number of friends. Conclusion: Parental health behaviors play a significant role in adolescents’ bodyweight, representing the necessity for more constructive health behaviors and PA among parents. Future interventions may be strengthened by focusing specifically on gender and body mass index, while taking into consideration the importance of parental behaviors on adolescents.
Population Pharmacokinetics of Mefloquine Intermittent Preventive Treatment for Malaria in Pregnancy in Gabon
Authors: Ramharter Michael , Schwab Matthias , Mombo-Ngoma Ghyslain , Zoleko Manego Rella , Akerey-Diop Daisy , Basra Arti , Mackanga Jean-Rodolphe , Würbel Heike , Wojtyniak Jan-Georg , Gonzalez Raquel , Hofmann Ute , Geditz Mirjam , Matsiegui Pierre-Blaise , Kremsner Peter G. , Menendez Clara , Kerb Reinhold , Lehr Thorsten
Published: November 2018

Mefloquine was evaluated as an alternative for intermittent preventive treatment of malaria in pregnancy (IPTp) due to increasing resistance against the first-line drug sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine (SP). This study determined the pharmacokinetic characteristics of the mefloquine stereoisomers and the metabolite carboxymefloquine (CMQ) when given as IPTp in pregnant women.
Draft Genome Sequence of
Lactobacillus kosoi
NBRC 113063, Isolated from Kôso, a Japanese Sugar-Vegetable Fermented Beverage
Authors: Chiou Tai-Ying , Suda Wataru , Oshima Kenshiro , Hattori Masahira , Matsuzaki Chiaki , Yamamoto Kenji , Takahashi Tomoya
Published: November 2018

Lactobacillus kosoi
NBRC 113063 is a fructophilic species isolated from kôso, a Japanese sugar-vegetable fermented beverage. The draft genome sequence of
Lactobacillus kosoi
NBRC 113063 is useful for understanding the carbohydrate metabolism of fructophilic lactic acid bacteria.
Draft Whole-Genome Sequences of Seven Isolates of Klebsiella pneumoniae from New Zealand Sea Lions
Authors: Pinpimai Komkiew , Roe Wendi D. , Biggs Patrick J. , Dittmer Keren E.
Published: November 2018

Klebsiella pneumoniae
is a Gram-negative bacterium that may cause infection in a broad range of hosts. We report here the genome sequences of seven
K. pneumoniae
isolates from New Zealand sea lions.
Whole-Genome Sequences of Phages p000v and p000y, Which Infect the Bacterial Pathogen Shiga-Toxigenic Escherichia coli
Authors: Howard-Varona Cristina , Vik Dean R. , Solonenko Natalie E. , Gazitua M. Consuelo , Hobbs Zack , Honaker Ryan W. , Kinkhabwala Anika A. , Sullivan Matthew B.
Published: November 2018

We report here the genome sequences and morphological characterizations of phages p000v and p000y, which infect the bacterial pathogen Shiga-toxigenic
Escherichia coli
O157:H7 and which are potential candidates for phage therapy against such pathogens.
High school personality traits and 48-year all-cause mortality risk: results from a national sample of 26 845 baby boomers
Authors: Chapman Benjamin P , Huang Alison , Horner Elizabeth , Peters Kelly , Sempeles Ellena , Roberts Brent , Lapham Susan
Published: November 2018

Background

It is unclear if adolescent personality predicts mortality into late life, independent of adolescent socioeconomic status (SES).

Methods

Over 26 000 members of Project Talent, a US population cohort of high school students, completed a survey including 10 personality scales and SES in 1960. Multi-source mortality follow-up obtained vital status data through an average 48-year period ending in 2009. Cox proportional hazard models examined the relative risk associated with personality traits, as well as confounding by both a measure of SES and by race/ethnicity.

Results

Adjusted for sex and grade, higher levels of vigour, calm, culture, maturity and social sensitivity in high school were associated with reduced mortality risk (HRs=0.92 to. 96), while higher levels of impulsivity were associated with greater mortality risk. Further adjustment for SES and school racial/ethnic composition mildly attenuated (eg, 12%), but did not eliminate these associations. Final HRs for a 1 SD change in personality traits were similar to that for a 1 SD change in SES.

Conclusions

Adaptive personality traits in high school are associated with all-cause mortality in the USA as far into the future as the seventh decade, and to a degree similar to high school socioeconomic disadvantage.