bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Longterm Analysis of Biliary Complications After Duct‐to‐Duct Biliary Reconstruction in Living Donor Liver Transplantations
Authors: Hong Sung Yeon , Hu Xu‐Guang , Lee Hyun Young , Won Je Hwan , Kim Jin Woo , Shen Xue‐Yin , Wang Hee‐Jung , Kim Bong‐Wan
Published: April 2018

Biliary complication (BC) is still regarded as the Achilles’ heel of a living donor liver transplantation (LDLT). This study aims to evaluate the longterm outcomes of the duct‐to‐duct (DD) biliary reconstruction using 7‐0 suture and to identify the risk factors of BCs after LDLTs. Data of 140 LDLTs between 2006 and 2015 were analyzed. All biliary reconstructions were performed as DD anastomoses using 7‐0 suture: 102 for the right lobe, 20 for the left lobe, and 18 for right posterior sector grafts. BC was defined as a bile leakage (BL) or a biliary stricture (BS), and the median follow‐up time after LDLT was 65 months. A total of 19 recipients (13.5%) developed BCs (8 BLs and 16 BSs) after LDLT. The survival rates between recipients with and without BCs were 83% and 86.7%, respectively (P = 0.88). In univariate analyses, the risk factors for BC were small diameter of the graft’s bile duct, long warm ischemic time, small graft‐to‐recipient weight ratio, and no use of external biliary stent (EBS). The graft’s bile duct diameter ≤ 3 mm and no use of EBS were determined as independent risk factors (hazard ratios of 9.74 and 7.68, respectively) in multivariate analyses. The 116 recipients with EBS had no BL, 11 had BSs (9%), while 24 without EBS had 8 BLs (33%) and 5 BSs (21%). After a propensity score match between the recipients with and without EBS, the EBS group (24) developed only 1 BS (4%). In conclusion, DD anastomosis using 7‐0 suture combined with EBS could provide favorable longterm outcomes after LDLT, which should thus be considered the surgical technique of choice for LDLTs.
Complex Coacervate Core Micelles Containing Poly(vinyl alcohol) Inhibit Ice Recrystallization
Authors: Sproncken Christian C. M. , Surís‐Valls Romà , Cingil Hande E. , Detrembleur Christophe , Voets Ilja K.
Published: April 2018

Complex coacervate core micelles (C3Ms) form upon complexation of oppositely charged copolymers. These co‐assembled structures are widely investigated as promising building blocks for encapsulation, nanoparticle synthesis, multimodal imaging, and coating technology. Here, the impact on ice growth is investigated of C3Ms containing poly(vinyl alcohol), PVA, which is well known for its high ice recrystallization inhibition (IRI) activity. The PVA‐based C3Ms are prepared upon co‐assembly of poly(4‐vinyl‐N‐methyl‐pyridinium iodide) and poly(vinyl alcohol)‐block‐poly(acrylic acid). Their formation conditions, size, and performance as ice recrystallization inhibitors are studied. It is found that the C3Ms exhibit IRI activity at PVA monomer concentrations as low as 1 × 10−3m. The IRI efficacy of PVA‐C3Ms is similar to that of linear PVA and PVA graft polymers, underlining the influence of vinyl alcohol monomer concentration rather than polymer architecture.
Subtle Esophageal Motility Alterations in Parkinsonian Syndromes: Synucleinopathies vs. Tauopathies
Authors: Claus Inga , Suttrup Judith , Muhle Paul , Suntrup‐Krueger Sonja , Siemer Marie‐Luise , Lenze Frank , Dziewas Rainer , Warnecke Tobias
Published: April 2018

Background

Esophageal dysfunction is a frequent phenomenon in Parkinson's disease during all disease stages, but data about esophageal involvement in atypical parkinsonian syndromes as well as possible differences between alpha‐synucleinopathies and tauopathies, including causative links to the origin of the dysfunction, are lacking so far.

Objective

To describe esophageal alternation patterns in different parkinsonian syndromes and to look for differences supporting the hypothesis of alpha‐synuclein aggregation being linked to gastrointestinal impairment in parkinsonian syndromes.

Methods

We performed an analysis and comparison of esophageal high‐resolution manometry examination parameters in n = 10 patients with Parkinson's disease, n = 10 patients with multiple system atrophy (both alpha‐synucleinopathies), n = 10 patients with progressive supranuclear palsy (tauopathy), and n = 10 age‐matched controls. Additionally, pharyngeal dysphagia was evaluated by an endoscopic examination of swallowing in all three patient groups.

Results

Statistically significant lower values for esophageal peristalsis and distal contractile integral were found for both groups of alpha‐synucleinopathies (Parkinson's disease and multiple system atrophy) in comparison to the patients with tauopathy (progressive supranuclear palsy group), as well as the age‐matched controls, where pathological pharyngeal findings were similar in all patient groups.

Conclusions

Subtle esophageal motility alterations in parkinsonian syndromes seem to be limited to alpha‐synucleinopathies, but are not measurable in tauopathies, indicating a causative connection between pathological alpha‐synuclein aggregation in gastrointestinal tissues and esophageal involvement.
Broadband circularly polarized dipole look‐like F‐shaped antenna with symmetrically inverted F‐shaped modified ground plane
Authors: Kumar Yatendra , Gangwar Ravi Kumar , Kanaujia Binod Kumar
Published: April 2018

A microstrip antenna consists of F‐shaped radiating structure with symmetrical F‐shaped modified or defected ground plane look‐like dipole antenna featured for broad axial ratio bandwidth (ARBW) is presented. Modified/defected ground plane comprises of an optimized rectangular ground plane united with symmetrically inverted F‐shaped structure printed at the bottom side of substrate. Furthermore, a narrow rectangular slit was imprinted from the modified ground plane to obtain broad ARBW. Proposed antenna optimized, fabricated, and experimentally examined. Measured results confirm that it can yield an fractional impedance bandwidth of approximately ≈37.5% and a 3‐dB ARBW of ≈31.7%. The measured gain range from 2 dB to 4 dB within the 3‐dB ARBW with maximum gain of 4 dBic. The cross polar rejection was observed better than 15 dB alongwith wide −3 dB beamwidth of 85°.
Performance enhancement of a microstrip patch antenna using substrate integrated waveguide frequency selective surface for ISM band applications
Authors: Güneş Filiz , Belen Mehmet A. , Mahouti Peyman
Published: April 2018

In this work, performance enhancement of a microstrip patch antenna working at ISM band (2.4 GHz) is presented using modified cross shaped Frequency Selective Surface (FSS) constructed on Substrate Integrated Waveguide (SIW). Design optimizations and simulations of both the antennas and FSS are carried out on low‐cost FR4 substrate (with ɛr = 4.4, h = 1.58 mm, and tan δ = 0.0035) in the 3D CST MSW environment. In addition, to exhibit merit of using SIW structure, the traditional FSS in the same configuration is also applied and performances of the antennas used FSSs with and without SIW are also simulated and compared in the 3D CST MSW environment. Finally, the proposed model is confirmed by measurements agreed with the theoretical results to have enhanced gain and beam width at the 2.4 GHz bandwidth alongside improvement in the return loss.
Flexible thin antenna solution for wearable ankle bracelet applications with GNSS and BLE connectivity
Authors: Flores‐Cuadras Javier R. , Medina‐Monroy Jose L. , Chavez‐Perez Ricardo A. , Lobato‐Morales Humberto
Published: April 2018

A thin antenna structure to operate in GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) and BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication standards is proposed. The antenna was built on a flexible and thin Kapton material inserted between 2 layers of bovine leather, suitable for limited weight and slim ankle bracelet designs. Proposed antenna structure consist of 2 opposed planar inverted F antennas modified using matching stubs, sharing the same substrate and ground plane, with total size of 96.8 × 35 × 4.14 mm. The ground plane area of the antenna can be used for electronic circuit and battery placement. The antenna structure operates in the following specific 4 bands: BeiDou (1561 MHz), GPS (1575 MHz), GLONASS (1602 MHz), and BLE (2400 MHz). The antenna exhibited great agreement between electromagnetic simulations in ADS Momentum and measurements performed into 3D anechoic chamber with anthropomorphic leg‐foot model from Speag. The antenna peak gain is approximately −1.8 dBi for GNSS bands and −2.0 dBi for BLE.
A third‐order bandpass iris filter with reconfigurable dielectric irises
Authors: Gong Liang , Chan King Yuk , Ramer Rodica
Published: April 2018

A novel concept of reconfiguring high Q‐factor iris filters, to operate in different frequency bands, is presented. Compared to traditional iris filters, the air‐filled irises are here replaced with dielectric substrate, similarly as the concept of substrate integrated waveguide. By controlling RF MEMS switches placed on the dielectric substrate, the equivalent iris width and thickness, and the resonant cavity length can be reconfigured simultaneously. As a demonstration of the concept, this article has proposed a third‐order bandpass filter consisting of 3 waveguide sections made of brass and 4 inverters fabricated on Rogers RT/duroid 5880 substrate. Constant absolute bandwidths between different states and theoretical unloaded Q‐factor of 1800 are achievable in our approach.
Design and characterization of tissue‐mimicking gel phantoms for diffusion kurtosis imaging
Authors: Portakal Ziyafer Gizem , Shermer Sophie , Jenkins Christopher , Spezi Emiliano , Perrett Teresa , Tuncel Nina , Phillips Jonathan
Published: April 2018

Purpose

The aim of this work was to create tissue‐mimicking gel phantoms appropriate for diffusion kurtosis imaging (DKI) for quality assurance, protocol optimization, and sequence development.

Methods

A range of agar, agarose, and polyvinyl alcohol phantoms with concentrations ranging from 1.0% to 3.5%, 0.5% to 3.0%, and 10% to 20%, respectively, and up to 3 g of glass microspheres per 100 ml were created. Diffusion coefficients, excess kurtosis values, and relaxation rates were experimentally determined.

Results

The kurtosis values for the plain gels ranged from 0.05 with 95% confidence interval (CI) of (0.029,0.071) to 0.216(0.185,0.246), well below the kurtosis values reported in the literature for various tissues. The addition of glass microspheres increased the kurtosis of the gels with values up to 0.523(0.465,0.581) observed for gels with the highest concentration of microspheres. Repeat scans of some of the gels after more than 6 months of storage at room temperature indicate changes in the diffusion parameters of less than 10%. The addition of the glass microspheres reduces the apparent diffusion coefficients (ADCs) and increases the longitudinal and transverse relaxation rates, but the values remain comparable to those for plain gels and tissue, with ADCs observed ranging from 818(585,1053) × 10−6 mm2/s to 2257(2118,2296) × 10−6 mm2/s, R1 values ranging from 0.34(0.32,0.35) 1/s to 0.51(0.50,0.52) 1/s, and R2 values ranging from 9.69(9.34,10.04) 1/s to 33.07(27.10, 39.04) 1/s.

Conclusions

Glass microspheres can be used to effectively modify diffusion properties of gel phantoms and achieve a range of kurtosis values comparable to those reported for a variety of tissues.
Effects of Aquaculture on Lakes in the Central Yangtze River Basin, China, I. Water Quality
Authors: Wang Rui , Zhang Yingxue , Xia Wentong , Qu Xiao , Xin Wei , Guo Chuanbo , Bowker Jim , Chen Yushun
Published: April 2018

Lake aquaculture in China has become more common, but there has been only limited research on its effects on the quality of lake water. We measured selected water quality parameters from July to September 2015 in 23 lakes in the middle reach of the Yangtze River basin to investigate the effects of different types of lake aquaculture on water quality. The lakes were classified as “low,” “medium,” “high,” or “fallow” based on their stocking rate. The results showed that turbidity, total suspended solids, chemical oxygen demand, conductivity, chloride, total nitrogen, total phosphorus, orthophosphate, and chlorophyll a were lowest in the low lakes and highest in the high or medium lakes (and on occasion in the fallow lakes). These results confirm a close relationship between the level of fish stocking and many of the water quality parameters measured and that the effects of banning aquaculture in the fallow lakes has likely not yet been fully realized.
What are the additional signs and symptoms in patients with detrusor underactivity and coexisting detrusor overactivity?
Authors: Gammie Andrew , Kaper Mathilde , Steup Achim , Yoshida Satoshi , Dorrepaal Caroline , Kos Ton , Abrams Paul
Published: April 2018

Aims

This study aimed to determine what difference the inclusion of patients with coexisting detrusor overactivity (DO) makes to the signs and symptoms of patients with detrusor underactivity (DU).

Methods

A total of 250 male and 435 female urodynamic tests were analyzed retrospectively. Signs and symptoms which showed a statistically significant difference between DU without DO and DU with DO were identified.

Results

Males with DO in addition to DU had higher age and number of daily micturitions, and were more likely to report urgency with or without urgency incontinence than males with DU without DO. They also had lower volumes for first desire to void, volume voided, and post void residual urine, lower abdominal pressure at Qmax and were less likely to report a history of retention or reduced bladder filling sensation than males with DU without DO. Females with DO in addition to DU had higher age and BMI, and were more likely to report urgency incontinence, higher day and night pad usage, constipation and have reduced anal tone than females with DU without DO. They also had lower volumes for first desire to void, volume voided, and post void residual urine, and lower abdominal pressure at Qmax than females who had DU without DO.

Conclusions

There are differences in signs and symptoms between patients who have DU without DO, compared to patients having DU with DO. This understanding will help future studies investigating treatment options for DU patients.
An automated intravaginal dynamometer: Reliability metrics and the impact of testing protocol on active and passive forces measured from the pelvic floor muscles
Authors: Bérubé Marie‐Ève , Czyrnyj Catriona S. , McLean Linda
Published: April 2018

Aims

(1) To determine the reliability of an automated dynamometer designed to assess pelvic floor muscle (PFM) strength and resistance to passive elongation. (2) To evaluate the impact of PFM length and rate of tissue elongation on dynamometric outcomes.

Methods

At each of two sessions, twenty nulliparous women performed three maximum voluntary contractions (MVC) of their PFMs with the dynamometer set to two different anteroposterior (AP) diameters (25 mm, 35 mm). Next, with PFMs relaxed, the arms of the dynamometer opened three times to 40 mm at two speeds (25 mm/s, 50 mm/s). Outcomes included baseline force, peak force, relative peak force, rate of force development (RFD), stiffness and stress relaxation. Repeated‐measures ANOVAs were used to test trial, day, and task effects (α = 0.05), and intra‐class correlation coefficients (ICCs) were computed.

Results

Forces measured on MVC were higher with the larger AP diameter, and passive resistance was higher for the faster rate of tissue elongation. The between‐trial reliability of all outcomes was excellent (0.82 < ICC < 0.98) for all measures except for peak force during the passive elongation task (0.56 < ICC < 0.93). Between‐day reliability was good to excellent for active and passive RFD (0.75 < ICC < 0.93), stiffness (ICC = 0.77) and relative peak force (0.71 < ICC < 0.87); absolute force (0.11 < ICC < 0.85) and stress relaxation responses (0.19 < ICC < 0.98) tended to be less reliable.

Conclusions

The reliability of the dynamometer is adequate for both clinical and research applications. Relative forces were more reliable than absolute forces. Dimensions and rate of tissue elongation should be controlled and reported with all pelvic floor muscle assessments as these parameters impact outcomes.
Bladder underactivity after prolonged stimulation of somatic afferent axons in the tibial nerve in cats
Authors: Li Shun , Theisen Katherine , Browning Jeffery , Shen Bing , Wang Jicheng , Roppolo James R. , de Groat William C. , Tai Changfeng
Published: April 2018

Aims

To establish an animal model of bladder underactivity induced by prolonged and intense stimulation of somatic afferent axons in the tibial nerve.

Methods

In seven cats under α‐chloralose anesthesia, tibial nerve stimulation (TNS) of 30‐min duration was repeatedly (3‐8 times) applied at 4‐6 times threshold (T) intensity for inducing a toe twitch to produce bladder underactivity determined by cystometry. Naloxone (1 mg/kg, i.v.) was administered to examine the role of opioid receptors in TNS‐induced bladder underactivity.

Results

After prolonged (1.5‐4 h) and intense (4‐6T) TNS, a complete suppression of the micturition reflex occurred in six cats and an increase in bladder capacity to about 150% of control and a decrease in the micturition contraction amplitude to 50% of control occurred in one cat. The bladder underactivity was maintained for at least 1‐1.5 h. Naloxone reversed the bladder underactivity, but an additional 30‐min TNS removed the naloxone effect.

Conclusions

The results indicate that prolonged and intense activation of somatic afferent axons in the tibial nerve can suppress the central reflex mechanisms controlling micturition. This animal model may be useful for examining the pathophysiology of neurogenic bladder underactivity and for development of new treatments for underactive bladder symptoms.
Pattern of Daily Steps is Associated with Weight Loss: Secondary Analysis from the Step‐Up Randomized Trial
Authors: Creasy Seth A. , Lang Wei , Tate Deborah F. , Davis Kelliann K. , Jakicic John M.
Published: April 2018

Objective

The aim of this study was to examine the association between the amount, intensity, and pattern of steps·day−1 with weight loss.

Methods

Participants (N = 260; age = 42.8 ± 8.9 y; BMI = 32.8 ± 3.5 kg/m2) completed an 18‐month weight‐loss intervention that included a calorie‐restricted diet and prescribed physical activity. Participants were categorized by 18‐month weight loss as weight gain (GAIN), weight loss of 0% to < 5% (WL < 5%), 5% to < 10% (WL < 10%), or ≥ 10% (WL ≥ 10%). Steps·day−1 were measured at 0, 6, 12, and 18 months and defined as total steps·day−1, total steps·day−1 of moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity (MVPA) (≥3 metabolic equivalents) in bouts of ≥ 10 minutes (BOUT‐MVPA), MVPA in bouts of < 10 minutes (NON‐BOUT‐MVPA), or non‐MVPA steps·day−1 (NON‐MVPA).

Results

There was a weight‐loss category by time interaction (P < 0.0001) for total and BOUT‐MVPA steps·day−1. The total steps·day−1 at 18 months were WL ≥ 10% = 9,822 (95% CI: 9,073‐10,571), WL < 10% = 8,612 (7,613‐9,610), WL < 5% = 7,802 (6,782‐8,822), and GAIN = 7,801 (6,549‐9,053). BOUT‐MVPA steps·day−1 at 18 months were WL ≥ 10% = 3,482 (2,982‐3,981), WL < 10% = 1,949 (1,269‐2,629), WL < 5% = 1,735 (1,045‐2,426), and GAIN = 1,075 (210‐1,941). Participants were also categorized based on achieving ≥ 10% weight loss at either 6 or 18 months, and a similar pattern was observed.

Conclusions

These findings show that 10,000 steps·day−1, with approximately 3,500 steps·day−1 performed as BOUT‐MVPA, are associated with enhanced weight loss in a behavioral intervention.
Polyelectrolyte micelles in salt‐free solutions: Micelle size and electrostatic potential
Authors: Miliou Kalliopi , Gergidis Leonidas N. , Vlahos Costas
Published: April 2018

The structural and electrical characteristics of polyelectrolyte micelles formed by diblock copolymers with one charged block and one solvophobic block are studied by the means of molecular dynamics simulations using the Primitive model at different Bjerrum lengths. The properties of interest are the mean aggregation number, the shape, the electrical potential as a function of the distance of the micelle's center of mass and the zeta potential. We found that for partially charged short A blocks the micelles’ mass distribution function is at least bimodal, indicating the coexistence of small and large micelles in agreement with theoretical and experimental findings. The zeta potential is not a monotonic function of the length of the charged block. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2018, 56, 924–934
Pharmacological upregulation of prostate‐specific membrane antigen (PSMA) expression in prostate cancer cells
Authors: Kranzbühler Benedikt , Salemi Souzan , Umbricht Christoph A. , Müller Cristina , Burger Irene A. , Sulser Tullio , Eberli Daniel
Published: April 2018

Background

Prostate‐specific membrane antigen (PSMA)‐based imaging and therapy are increasingly used for prostate cancer management. However, limitations are a low PSMA expression in certain patients. Androgen receptor axis inhibition can induce PSMA expression in vitro. We hypothesized that different approved compounds upregulate PSMA expression and tested their effect in vitro.

Methods

Androgen receptor (AR) expressing prostate cancer (LNCaP) and epithelial prostate cells (PNT1A) were treated for 7 days with enzalutamide, dutasteride, rapamycin, metformin, lovastatin, and acetylsalicylic acid (ASA). PSMA and AR protein expression was assessed using flow cytometry, immunocytochemistry and immunoblotting. Furthermore, uptake and internalization of 177Lu‐PSMA‐617 was performed.

Results

Enzalutamide and dutasteride led to a significant (both P < 0.05) upregulation of PSMA surface levels in LNCaP cells. In addition, treatment with rapamycin showed a non‐significant trend toward PSMA upregulation. No changes were detected after treatment with vehicle, metformin, lovastatin, and ASA. Total PSMA protein expression was significantly enhanced after treatment with enzalutamide and rapamycin (both P < 0.05), whereas dutasteride led to a non‐significant upregulation. Uptake of 177Lu‐PSMA‐617 was significantly increased after treatment of LNCaP with enzalutamide, dutasteride, and rapamycin (P < 0.05). In addition, internalization was significantly increased by enzalutamide and rapamycin (P < 0.05), and non‐significantly increased by dutasteride.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our data provide new insights into the effect of different approved pharmacological compounds that can markedly upregulate PSMA expression and radioligand uptake in vitro. Pharmacologically induced PSMA expression may prove useful to improve prostate cancer detection and to enhance anticancer effects in PSMA‐based therapy.
Comparative proteome analysis reveals pathogen specific outer membrane proteins of Leptospira
Authors: Dhandapani Gunasekaran , Sikha Thoduvayil , Rana Aarti , Brahma Rahul , Akhter Yusuf , Gopalakrishnan Madanan Madathiparambil
Published: April 2018

Proteomes of pathogenic Leptospira interrogans and L. borgpetersenii and the saprophytic L. biflexa were filtered through computational tools to identify Outer Membrane Proteins (OMPs) that satisfy the required biophysical parameters for their presence on the outer membrane. A total of 133, 130, and 144 OMPs were identified in L. interrogans, L. borgpetersenii, and L. biflexa, respectively, which forms approximately 4% of proteomes. A holistic analysis of transporting and pathogenic characteristics of OMPs together with Clusters of Orthologous Groups (COGs) among the OMPs and their distribution across 3 species was made and put forward a set of 21 candidate OMPs specific to pathogenic leptospires. It is also found that proteins homologous to the candidate OMPs were also present in other pathogenic species of leptospires. Six OMPs from L. interrogans and 2 from L. borgpetersenii observed to have similar COGs while those were not found in any intermediate or saprophytic forms. These OMPs appears to have role in infection and pathogenesis and useful for anti‐leptospiral strategies.
Practical experiences of adopting assurance as a quantitative framework to support decision making in drug development
Authors: Crisp Adam , Miller Sam , Thompson Douglas , Best Nicky
Published: April 2018

All clinical trials are designed for success of their primary objectives. Hence, evaluating the probability of success (PoS) should be a key focus at the design stage both to support funding approval from sponsor governance boards and to inform trial design itself. Use of assurance—that is, expected success probability averaged over a prior probability distribution for the treatment effect—to quantify PoS of a planned study has grown across the industry in recent years, and has now become routine within the authors' company. In this paper, we illustrate some of the benefits of systematically adopting assurance as a quantitative framework to support decision making in drug development through several case‐studies where evaluation of assurance has proved impactful in terms of trial design and in supporting governance‐board reviews of project proposals. In addition, we describe specific features of how the assurance framework has been implemented within our company, highlighting the critical role that prior elicitation plays in this process, and illustrating how the overall assurance calculation may be decomposed into a sequence of conditional PoS estimates which can provide greater insight into how and when different development options are able to discharge risk.
Impact of the tropical cyclone Nilam on the vertical distribution of carbon monoxide over Chennai on the Indian peninsula
Authors: Sahu Lokesh K. , Tripathi Nidhi , Sheel Varun , Kajino Mizuo , Deushi Makoto , Yadav Ravi , Nedelec Philippe
Published: April 2018

The present study investigates the impact of tropical cyclone (TC) Nilam on the vertical distribution of carbon monoxide (CO) over Chennai in southern India. Measurements of OZone and water vapour by Airbus In‐service airCraft (MOZAIC) profiles of CO measured during October–November 2012 were analysed. The vertical profiles of CO on 15 October and 2 November were influenced by convective motions with a significant decrease in outgoing long‐wave radiation (OLR) compared to that on normal days of observations. The near‐surface mixing ratios of CO (185 ± 24 ppbv) in convectively influenced conditions were much lower than those measured during normal days (>210 ppbv). The occurrence of minimum CO values at altitudes of 4–6 km coincided with the lowest lapse rate (LR) value of 4–5 °C/km. The uplift of surface air masses led to a large increase in the CO mixing ratio in the free troposphere. The differences in CO between the lower and free troposphere were relatively small (40–50 ppbv) and large (90–100 ppbv) during convective and normal days, respectively. In the lower troposphere, elevated values of CO (>250 ppbv) were measured for lighter wind speeds from the north, while lower values (<150 ppbv) were measured for strong winds from the western sectors. The Model for OZone And Related chemical Tracers (MOZART‐4) and Chemistry Climate Model 2 (CCM2) simulations did not capture the detailed features of the CO profiles. For cyclone‐influenced measurements in the lower troposphere, MOZART‐4 underestimated the CO values by approximately 13%, but CCM2 overestimated the CO values by 70%. In the upper troposphere, MOZART‐4 and CCM2 underestimated the observations by 6–8% and 12–22%, respectively. The mixing scheme of the model and simulated concentrations seem to be the key causes of disagreements. However, the performances of both the MOZART‐4 and CCM2 simulations were better for convection‐free normal days.
δ13C values in archaeological 14C‐AMS dated charcoals: Assessing mid‐Holocene climate fluctuations and human response from a high‐resolution isotope record (Arslantepe, Turkey)
Authors: Vignola C. , Masi A. , Balossi Restelli F. , Frangipane M. , Marzaioli F. , Passariello I. , Rubino M. , Terrasi F. , Sadori L.
Published: April 2018

Rationale

Past climate has always influenced human adaptation to the environment. In order to reconstruct palaeoclimate fluctuations and their role in the evolution of Near Eastern societies during the mid‐Holocene, high‐resolution Δ13C records from fossil wood remains at the archaeoloical site of Arslantepe (eastern Turkey) have been developed.

Methods

After chemical treatment, δ13C values were measured by sample combustion flow using a FLASH EA‐CHNS instrument interfaced with a Delta V isotope ratio mass spectrometer via a CONFLO III. Two replicates per sample were analysed. The measurement precision was evaluated by propagating variations of the δ13C values of samples and V‐PDB standards, whereas the accuracy was checked by a quality control sample. To account for changes in atmospheric CO2, Δ13C values were calculated. In addition, 14C/12C ratios were measured by means of an AMS system (3 MV tandem accelerator).

Results

Mean Δ13C curves of deciduous Quercus and Juniperus from archaeological levels between 4700 and 2000 bc (Arslantepe periods VIII‐VI D) were produced, where the isotope values were ordered by the available Radiocarbon ages. Interspecific variations of evergreen vs deciduous plants were postulated for the juniper Δ13C values being higher than 3‰. The seasonal rainfall amount was recorded by the juniper remains, while the water table levels were obtained from the oak samples.

Conclusions

The local climate experienced times of enhanced/reduced precipitation in concert with regional trends. Anomalies in the air mass circulation from the Mediterranean basin also produced oscillations of rainfall amount. In such a frame the Rapid Climate Change dry events had a consistent signature in the Arslantepe Δ13C record, thus potentially contributing to social or organisational changes at the site.
Endotracheal tube clamping and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation to resuscitate massive pulmonary haemorrhage
Authors: Lee Chien‐Feng , Huang Chun‐Ta , Ruan Sheng‐Yuan
Published: April 2018

Massive pulmonary haemorrhage is a life‐threatening and difficult‐to‐manage condition. In certain circumstances, traditional approaches for haemoptysis may not be effective. Here, we report a 64‐year‐old man presenting with dyspnoea and leg oedema. He was diagnosed with microscopic polyangiitis due to positive perinuclear anti‐neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody and other supportive evidence. His hospital course was complicated with massive pulmonary haemorrhage, which led to hypoxic respiratory failure, shock, and pulseless electrical activity. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) was employed during cardiopulmonary resuscitation. To control blood loss from his lungs, we clamped the endotracheal tube for tamponade therapy. The tube was clamped for 15 h till the haemorrhage subsided. ECMO and ventilator support were successfully weaned off after 5 and 10 days, respectively. Our favourable experience suggests that endotracheal tube clamping with ECMO support is a viable management option for life‐threatening pulmonary haemorrhage.
Structural and electronics properties of Rh‐doped SnO2(110) surfaces: Ab‐initio calculations
Authors: Bouamra F. , Boumeddiene A.
Published: April 2018

Structural and electronics properties of SnO2(110)‐doped Rh surfaces have been calculated for different atomic Rh/Sn ratio: 9.09%, 14.28%, 20%, and 26.31% using a density functional theory (DFT) at B3LYP level with CRYSTAL09 program. These structures are obtained by substitution of Rh atoms with tin Sn atoms of the most outer atomic faces of SnO2(110) surfaces, which contain Sn and O atoms. Relaxation parameters, band structures, and projected density of state of neighboring atoms of Rh (PDOS) are represented and discussed.
Explained variation of excess hazard models
Authors: Maringe Camille , Pohar Perme Maja , Stare Janez , Rachet Bernard
Published: April 2018

The availability of longstanding collection of detailed cancer patient information makes multivariable modelling of cancer‐specific hazard of death appealing. We propose to report variation in survival explained by each variable that constitutes these models. We adapted the ranks explained (RE) measure to the relative survival data setting, ie, when competing risks of death are accounted for through life tables from the general population. RE is calculated at each event time. We introduce weights for each death reflecting its probability to be a cancer death. RE varies between −1 and +1 and can be reported at given times in the follow‐up and as a time‐varying measure from diagnosis onward. We present an application for patients diagnosed with colon or lung cancer in England. The RE measure shows reasonable properties and is comparable in both relative and cause‐specific settings. One year after diagnosis, RE for the most complex excess hazard models reaches 0.56, 95% CI: 0.54 to 0.58 (0.58 95% CI: 0.56–0.60) and 0.69, 95% CI: 0.68 to 0.70 (0.67, 95% CI: 0.66–0.69) for lung and colon cancer men (women), respectively. Stage at diagnosis accounts for 12.4% (10.8%) of the overall variation in survival among lung cancer patients whereas it carries 61.8% (53.5%) of the survival variation in colon cancer patients. Variables other than performance status for lung cancer (10%) contribute very little to the overall explained variation. The proportion of the variation in survival explained by key prognostic factors is a crucial information toward understanding the mechanisms underpinning cancer survival. The time‐varying RE provides insights into patterns of influence for strong predictors.
Robust analysis of stepped wedge trials using cluster‐level summaries within periods
Authors: Thompson J.A. , Davey C. , Fielding K. , Hargreaves J.R. , Hayes R.J.
Published: April 2018

In stepped‐wedge trials (SWTs), the intervention is rolled out in a random order over more than 1 time‐period. SWTs are often analysed using mixed‐effects models that require strong assumptions and may be inappropriate when the number of clusters is small.

We propose a non‐parametric within‐period method to analyse SWTs. This method estimates the intervention effect by comparing intervention and control conditions in a given period using cluster‐level data corresponding to exposure. The within‐period intervention effects are combined with an inverse‐variance‐weighted average, and permutation tests are used. We present an example and, using simulated data, compared the method to (1) a parametric cluster‐level within‐period method, (2) the most commonly used mixed‐effects model, and (3) a more flexible mixed‐effects model. We simulated scenarios where period effects were common to all clusters, and when they varied according to a distribution informed by routinely collected health data.

The non‐parametric within‐period method provided unbiased intervention effect estimates with correct confidence‐interval coverage for all scenarios. The parametric within‐period method produced confidence intervals with low coverage for most scenarios. The mixed‐effects models' confidence intervals had low coverage when period effects varied between clusters but had greater power than the non‐parametric within‐period method when period effects were common to all clusters.

The non‐parametric within‐period method is a robust method for analysing SWT. The method could be used by trial statisticians who want to emphasise that the SWT is a randomised trial, in the common position of being uncertain about whether data will meet the assumptions necessary for mixed‐effect models.
Sustainable Synthesis of Co@NC Core Shell Nanostructures from Metal Organic Frameworks via Mechanochemical Coordination Self‐Assembly: An Efficient Electrocatalyst for Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Peera Shaik Gouse , Balamurugan Jayaraman , Kim Nam Hoon , Lee Joong Hee
Published: April 2018

Herein, a new type of cobalt encapsulated nitrogen‐doped carbon (Co@NC) nanostructure employing ZnxCo1−x(C3H4N2) metal–organic framework (MOF) as precursor is developed, by a simple, ecofriendly, solvent‐free approach that utilizes a mechanochemical coordination self‐assembly strategy. Possible evolution of ZnxCo1−x(C3H4N2) MOF structures and their conversion to Co@NC nanostructures is established from an X‐ray diffraction technique and transmission electron microscopy analysis, which reveal that MOF‐derived Co@NC core–shell nanostructures are well ordered and highly crystalline in nature. Co@NC–MOF core–shell nanostructures show excellent catalytic activity for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), with onset potential of 0.97 V and half‐wave potential of 0.88 V versus relative hydrogen electrode in alkaline electrolyte, and excellent durability with zero degradation after 5000 potential cycles; whereas under similar experimental conditions, the commonly utilized Pt/C electrocatalyst degrades. The Co@NC–MOF electrocatalyst also shows excellent tolerance to methanol, unlike the Pt/C electrocatalyst. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis shows the presence of ORR active pyridinic‐N and graphitic‐N species, along with CoNxCy and CoNx ORR active (M–N–C) sites. Enhanced electron transfer kinetics from nitrogen‐doped carbon shell to core Co nanoparticles, the existence of M–N–C active sites, and protective NC shells are responsible for high ORR activity and durability of the Co@NC–MOF electrocatalyst.
Method to estimate colors of amber debris
Authors: Kageyama Yoichi , Ishikawa Hina , Ishizawa Chikako , Takahashi Tsuyoshi , Nishida Makoto , Shinden Hisao , Takisawa Toshio , Koyama Taro , Kobushi Makoto
Published: April 2018

This letter first demonstrates the color features of ambers and then a method to estimate their colors. The RGB (Red, Green, and Blue) color space and the HSV (Hue, Saturation, and Value) color space are used for data analysis. Four kinds of ambers: three of different colors (yellow, brown, and black) and an amber with an outer cover (AOC) created by solid resin or amber dirt are examined. The proposed method consists of masking, detection of AOC, and an estimation of amber colors. Experimental results for 185 images show that the proposed method can estimate amber colors with an accuracy of 90.3%. It is also shown that the yellow color is perfectly distinguished, and that the estimation accuracy of the three colors is 98.0%. © 2018 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
THE MISSISSIPPIAN FIN DE SIÈCLE IN THE MIDDLE CUMBERLAND REGION OF TENNESSEE
Authors: Krus Anthony M. , Cobb Charles R.
Published: April 2018

Bayesian chronological modeling is used to investigate the chronology for a large-scale human depopulation event during the Mississippian period (AD 1000–1600) known as the Vacant Quarter phenomenon. The Middle Cumberland region (MCR) of Tennessee is within the Vacant Quarter area, and six villages from the final phase of Mississippian activity in the MCR have been subjected to radiocarbon dating. Complete radiocarbon datasets from these sites are presented within an interpretative Bayesian statistical framework. The results provide a unique history of each settlement and demonstrate that Mississippian occupations at each site likely terminated in the mid- to late fifteenth and possibly early sixteenth centuries AD, which is 50 to 100 years later than the most recent estimate for the timing of the Vacant Quarter. Mississippian abandonment in the MCR was relatively quick, likely occurring over less than a century. The exact reasons for abandonment are not entirely clear but appear to be linked to climate change. A radiocarbon simulation experiment indicates that future robust radiocarbon dating with well-selected samples could greatly improve the chronological precision for this late Mississippian activity. More broadly, this example demonstrates that model building with radiocarbon simulations can be used to address regional-scale chronological issues within the American Southeast and beyond.
VILLAGE GROWTH, EMERGING INFECTIOUS DISEASE, AND THE END OF THE NEOLITHIC DEMOGRAPHIC TRANSITION IN THE SOUTHWEST UNITED STATES AND NORTHWEST MEXICO
Authors: Phillips David A. , Wearing Helen J. , Clark Jeffery J.
Published: April 2018

In the final centuries prior to the arrival of the Spanish, the southwest United States and northwest Mexico underwent two major sociodemographic changes: (1) many people coalesced into large villages, and (2) most of the villages were depopulated within two centuries. Basic epidemiological models indicate that village coalescence could have triggered epidemic diseases that caused the observed demographic decline. The models also link this decline to a global phenomenon, the Neolithic Demographic Transition.
Are Choice Experiment Treatments of Outcome Uncertainty Sufficient? An Application to Climate Risk Reductions
Authors: Makriyannis Christos , Johnston Robert J. , Whelchel Adam W.
Published: April 2018

Choice experiments addressing outcome uncertainty (OU) typically reframe continuous probability densities for each risky outcome into two discrete categories, each with a single probability of occurrence. The implications of this simplification for welfare estimation are unknown. This article evaluates the convergent validity of willingness-to-pay (WTP) estimates from a more accurate multiple-outcome treatment of OU, compared to the two-outcome approach. Results for a case study of coastal flood adaptation in Connecticut, United States, suggest that higher-resolution OU treatments increase choice complexity but can provide additional information on risk preferences and WTP. This tradeoff highlights challenges facing the valuation of uncertain outcomes.
The 2017 Shooting of Kuki Gallmann and the Politics of Conservation in Northern Kenya
Authors: Fox Graham R.
Published: April 2018

This article situates the shooting of white Kenyan landowner Kuki Gallmann within recent critiques of community-based conservation and the politics of whiteness in Kenya. I discuss how conservation has enabled white landowners to consolidate their influence over Laikipia County, as well as neighboring regions of Kenya via an organization called the Northern Rangelands Trust. The NRT is feared to be undermining regional livestock economies, while contributing to land shortages that have precipitated violence in Laikipia. I argue that the pastoralists implicated in these conflicts are subject to a maelstrom of livelihood stressors, some of which are aggravated by the efforts of white Kenyans to expand conservation throughout northern Kenya.
No round wandering domains for -diffeomorphisms of tori
Authors: MERENKOV SERGEI
Published: April 2018

We prove that if
$n\geq 2$
, then there is no
$C^{1}$
-diffeomorphism
$f$
of the
$n$
-torus such that
$f$
is semi-conjugate to a minimal translation and its wandering domains are geometric balls. This improves a recent result of Navas, who proved it assuming
$C^{n+1}$
regularity of 
$f$
.
Sedimentary architecture of the southern basin of Lake of the Woods, Minnesota and its relation to Lake Agassiz history and Holocene environmental change
Authors: Hougardy Devin D. , Colman Steven M.
Published: April 2018

Lake of the Woods (LOTW) is a large, complex lake basin once occupied by glacial Lake Agassiz. High-resolution seismic-reflection profiles and cores in the shallow, open southern basin of LOTW reveal a sedimentary architecture comprising four lacustrine units separated by three low-stand unconformities. These units represent several phases of Lake Agassiz and its changing configuration. One unconformity marks the Moorhead low phase and another marks the separation of LOTW from Lake Agassiz, perhaps ~10 cal ka BP, as the level of the latter fell, but before final drainage of Agassiz. Initially, the separate Holocene lake in the southern basin was broad and shallow, sometimes marshy or dry. Shortly after 8 cal ka BP, the southern basin dried up completely, despite the progressive rise of the northern outlet of the lake due to differential isostatic uplift. The resulting hiatus is related to the well-documented mid-Holocene arid interval in central North America. A return to wetter conditions in the late Holocene caused the southern basin of LOTW to refill since about 3800 cal yr BP. Late Holocene sediments have accumulated slightly asymmetrically in the basin, possible due to continued southward transgression of the lake as a result of isostatic tilting.
J.S. Mill on Calliclean Hedonism and the Value of Pleasure
Authors: BEAUMONT TIM
Published: April 2018

Maximizing Hedonism maintains that the most pleasurable pleasures are the best. Francis Bradley argues that this is either incompatible with Mill’s Qualitative Hedonism, or renders the latter redundant. Some ‘sympathetic’ interpreters respond that Mill was either a Non-Maximizing Hedonist or a Non-Hedonist. However, Bradley’s argument is fallacious, and these ‘sympathetic’ interpretations cannot provide adequate accounts of: Mill’s identification with the Protagorean Socrates; his criticisms of the Gorgian Socrates; or his apparent belief that Callicles is misguided to attempt to show that the pleasures of the intelligent can be more valuable than the pleasures of fools without also being more pleasurable.
REGIONAL DIFFERENCES IN POSITIVE SEXUAL
BEHAVIOUR AMONG YOUTH IN SUB-SAHARAN
AFRICA
Authors: Odimegwu Clifford , Somefun Oluwaseyi Dolapo , Chisumpa Vesper H.
Published: April 2018

The question of youth sexual behaviour has been widely
debated, with researchers such as Berhan and Berhan
(2015)
arguing that young adults aged 15–24 are more likely
to engage in risky behaviours. However, research has
not adequately addressed the issue of positive
sexual behaviours, in particular among young people
in sub-Saharan Africa. Adapting the compensatory
model of risk and resiliency theory, this study
examined the determinants of positive sexual
behaviours among youth in sub-Saharan Africa. Using
recent data from Demographic and Health Surveys of
sixteen countries representative of each African
region (East, West, Southern and Central), it was
hypothesized that positive sexual behaviours of
youth (condom use at last sex and single sexual
partnership) would be most strengthened by
protective factors at the individual and family
levels, and that these behaviours would differ by
region due to regional variation in socio-cultural
practices. Delayed age at sexual debut (first sex
after the age of 15) was found to be the strongest
protective factor for positive sexual behaviours
among males and females in sub-Saharan Africa.
Certain socioeconomic variables were found to be
positively associated with positive sexual
behaviours and the associations differed by
gender.
Market Sentiment and Innovation Activities
Authors: Dang Tri Vi , Xu Zhaoxia
Published: April 2018

We investigate potential mechanisms through which market-wide sentiment affects firms’ innovation activities. We provide evidence for the financing channel by showing that financially constrained firms are more likely to issue equity and invest more in research and development (R&D) than financially unconstrained firms at high market sentiment. Using time-varying manager sentiment measures, we find suggestive evidence for a sentiment spillover channel whereby market sentiment affects R&D investments through influencing manager sentiment. Furthermore, better patent portfolios are produced from R&D investments stimulated by high market sentiment. Market sentiment has a stronger impact on R&D than the capital expenditures of financially constrained firms.