bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Processor Linkages and Farm Household Productivity: Evidence from Dairy Hubs in East Africa
Authors: Omondi Immaculate , Rao Elizaphan J. O. , Karimov Aziz A. , Baltenweck Isabelle
Published: February 2017

Linking smallholder farmers to large enterprises could be a powerful mechanism to improve input and output markets as well as other productivity‐enhancing services for liquidity constrained smallholders. Dairy hubs promoted by East African Dairy Development project are collective farmer‐owned milk bulking and/or chilling plants through which farmers get access to output markets and inputs as well as other services necessary for their dairy enterprises. The hubs act as a linkage between large processors and smallholder dairy farmers. They enable farmers to supply milk to large dairy processors who are emerging key players in the East African dairy industry. In addition to the different forms of linkages with large processors, these hubs also differ in their level of growth toward sustainability. In light of this background, this work aims to provide evidence on the effects, at farm level, of different types of linkages between smallholder dairy farmers and large processors through dairy hubs. The study uses cross‐sectional survey data collected from 993 smallholder livestock keeping households living within the dairy hubs’ catchment areas in Kenya and Uganda. Statistical tests on technical efficiency estimates from dairy farm enterprises were conducted in order to provide evidence of the effects of the types of processor linkages on the performance of the dairy farm enterprises. The results provide evidence of no strong influence at farm levels that can be attributed to different forms of linkages with processor that dairy hubs adopt. Moreover, though hub sustainability is directly linked to the producer organization's efficiency level, our results show that it does not sufficiently translate to more productive farmers. These findings call for concerted efforts by development agents in the dairy sector, policy makers, and even large processors to intervene in order to support improved farm performance. As evident from the study, one direct policy tool at the disposal of these agents is extension messages. [EconLit citations D24; L25; Q12].
Socially transmitted diffusion of a novel behavior from subordinate chimpanzees
Authors: Watson Stuart K. , Reamer Lisa A. , Mareno Mary Catherine , Vale Gillian , Harrison Rachel A. , Lambeth Susan P. , Schapiro Steven J. , Whiten Andrew
Published: February 2017

Chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) demonstrate much cultural diversity in the wild, yet a majority of novel behaviors do not become group‐wide traditions. Since many such novel behaviors are introduced by low‐ranking individuals, a bias toward copying dominant individuals (“rank‐bias”) has been proposed as an explanation for their limited diffusion. Previous experimental work showed that chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) preferentially copy dominant over low‐rank models. We investigated whether low ranking individuals may nevertheless successfully seed a beneficial behavior as a tradition if there are no “competing” models. In each of four captive groups, either a single high‐rank (HR, n = 2) or a low‐rank (LR, n = 2) chimpanzee model was trained on one method of opening a two‐action puzzle‐box, before demonstrating the trained method in a group context. This was followed by 8 hr of group‐wide, open‐access to the puzzle‐box. Successful manipulations and observers of each manipulation were recorded. Barnard's exact tests showed that individuals in the LR groups used the seeded method as their first‐choice option at significantly above chance levels, whereas those in the HR groups did not. Furthermore, individuals in the LR condition used the seeded method on their first attempt significantly more often than those in the HR condition. A network‐based diffusion analysis (NBDA) revealed that the best supported statistical models were those in which social transmission occurred only in groups with subordinate models. Finally, we report an innovation by a subordinate individual that built cumulatively on existing methods of opening the puzzle‐box and was subsequently copied by a dominant observer. These findings illustrate that chimpanzees are motivated to copy rewarding novel behaviors that are demonstrated by subordinate individuals and that, in some cases, social transmission may be constrained by high‐rank demonstrators.
Catalytic Alkylation Using a Cyclic S‐Adenosylmethionine Regeneration System
Authors: Mordhorst Silja , Siegrist Jutta , Müller Michael , Richter Michael , Andexer Jennifer N.
Published: February 2017

S‐Adenosylmethionine‐dependent methyltransferases are versatile tools for the specific alkylation of many compounds, such as pharmaceuticals, but their biocatalytic application is severely limited owing to the lack of a cofactor regeneration system. We report a biomimetic, polyphosphate‐based, cyclic cascade for methyltransferases. In addition to the substrate to be methylated, only methionine and polyphosphate have to be added in stoichiometric amounts. The system acts catalytically with respect to the cofactor precursor adenosine in methylation and ethylation reactions of selected substrates, as shown by HPLC analysis. Furthermore, 1H and 13C NMR measurements were performed to unequivocally identify methionine as the methyl donor and to gain insight into the selectivity of the reactions. This system constitutes a vital stage in the development of economical and environmentally friendly applications of methyltransferases.
Mind the gap: Ensuring laboratory‐scale testing of an electrospinning product meets commercial‐scale needs
Authors: LeCorre‐Bordes Deborah S. , Jaksons Peter , Hofman Kathleen
Published: February 2017

Plant & Food BioProcessing has developed a process to electrospin denatured whole‐chain marine collagen. The collagen is routinely tested on laboratory‐scale electrospinning equipment, but when it is electrospun on industrial equipment, the conditions and the product testing criteria differ from those used in the laboratory. A laboratory electrospinning machine was modified to simulate industrial conditions (≥30 kV). Then, several parameters (voltage, working distance) were adjusted from laboratory‐ to commercial‐scale. These changes did not affect average fiber diameter or deposition rate. The optimum electrospinning conditions were a mixture of laboratory‐ and commercial‐scale conditions (30–50 kV; 10 cm working distance). Reducing the working distance by 5 cm improved the production rate by up to 75%. These changes resulted in better repeatability of electrospun fibers over multiple production runs, with fewer adjustments of solutions and parameters. We recommend this approach to design materials and processes relevant to industrial manufacturing of electrospun fibers. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 44836.
Comparison of three drought indices and their evolutionary characteristics in the arid region of northwestern China
Authors: Wang Huaijun , Pan Yingping , Chen Yaning
Published: February 2017

Drought evolutions in the arid region of northwestern China from 1960 to 2010 were analyzed based on the standardized precipitation index (SPI), the standardized precipitation‐evapotranspiration index (SPEI), and the self‐calibrated Palmer drought severity index (SC‐PDSI). All three forms of drought indices were significantly correlated with each other. No statistically significant differences were found for the severity of drought, as assessed by both the SPI and SPEI. The SC‐PDSI was generally an index representing water deficits at a medium period. For the entire geographical area of study, wet conditions dominated during 1987–2010, whereas persistent drought conditions occurred from 1960 to 1986.
Intermediate term hemodynamic effects of single inferior vena cava valve implant for the treatment of severe tricuspid regurgitation
Authors: Rakita Val , Lakhter Vladimir , Patil Pravin , O'Neill Brian P.
Published: February 2017

Severe tricuspid regurgitation (TR) remains a vastly undertreated disease, with sustained elevation of right atrial (RA) pressure directly resulting in chronic end‐organ damage. Recently, bi‐caval valve implantation has been shown to improve symptoms in patients with symptomatic TR who are at high risk for surgery. We present the first report of intermediate term hemodynamic effects of single inferior vena cava (IVC) valve implantation (CAVI) for treatment of severe TR. We performed CAVI on a 66‐year‐old female with severe TR, who suffered from repeat hospitalizations for treatment refractory NYHA class III–IV heart failure symptoms and had prohibitive operative risk. Pre‐implantation right heart catheterization (RHC) revealed a mean RA pressure of 12 mm Hg, an IVC mean pressure of 13 mm Hg, with V‐waves to 16 and 18 mm Hg in the RA and IVC respectively, and a cardiac output (CO) of 3.5 liters per minute (LPM). Postprocedure, mean IVC and RA pressures decreased to 11 and 10 mm Hg, respectively, with CO increasing to 5.1 LPM. At one month, symptoms improved to NYHA class II. At 9 months, mean RA pressure was 5 mm Hg with V‐waves to 7 mm Hg and an improvement in CO to 6.3 LPM. CAVI appears to result in similar decreases in RA pressure at intermediate follow‐up as compared to bi‐caval valve implantation. The favorable hemodynamic effects were likely mediated by redirection of regurgitant blood flow away from the IVC thereby resulting in sustained reduction in right‐sided pressures as well as an increase in CO. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Beyond restenosis: Patients' preference for drug eluting or bare metal stents
Authors: Qintar Mohammed , Chhatriwalla Adnan K. , Arnold Suzanne V. , Tang Fengming , Buchanan Donna M. , Shafiq Ali , Pokharel Yashashwi , deBronkart Dave , Ashraf Javed M. , Spertus John A.
Published: February 2017

Objectives

To assess patients’ perspective about factors associated with stent choice.

Background

Drug eluting stents (DES) markedly reduce the risk of repeat percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), but necessitate a longer duration of dual anti‐platelet therapy (DAPT) as compared with bare metal stents (BMS). Thus, understanding patients’ perspective about factors associated with stent choice is paramount.

Methods

Patients undergoing angiography rated, on a 10‐point scale, the importance (1 = not important, 10 = most important) of avoiding repeat revascularization and avoiding the following potential DAPT drawbacks: bleeding/bruising, more pills/day, medication costs and delaying elective surgery. The factor, or group of factors, that was rated highest by each patient was identified.

Results

Among 311 patients, repeat revascularization was the single most important consideration to 14.4% of patients, while 20.6% considered avoiding one of the DAPT drawbacks as most important. Most patients (65%) considered avoiding at least one DAPT drawback as important as avoiding repeat revascularization. In no subgroup of patients did more than a quarter of patients prefer avoiding repeat revascularization above all other concerns. Among patients undergoing PCI, more than three quarters received a DES, regardless of their stated preferences (DES use among those most valuing DES benefits, avoiding DAPT drawbacks, or both equally were 78.7%, 86.2%, and 85.6%, respectively, P = 0.56).

Conclusion

Most patients reported that avoiding DAPT drawbacks was as important as avoiding repeat revascularization. Eliciting patient preferences regarding stent type can enhance shared decision‐making and allow physicians to better tailor stent choice to patients’ goals and values.

Trial Registration

Developing and Testing a Personalized Evidence‐based Shared Decision‐making Tool for Stent Selection (DECIDE‐PCI). ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02046902. URL: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02046902 © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Hydrogenation of Levulinic Acid Using Formic Acid as a Hydrogen Source over Ni/SiO2 Catalysts
Authors: Varkolu Mohan , Raju Burri David , Rao Kamaraju Seetha Rama , Jonnalagadda Sreekantha B. , van Zyl Werner E.
Published: February 2017

Several Ni/SiO2 catalysts were developed for the hydrogenation of levulinic acid using formic acid as the hydrogen source. The catalysts were prepared by a variety of methods including impregnation, co‐precipitation, deposition‐precipitation, and citric acid assisted impregnation combustion. The morphological properties were investigated by XRD, N2 sorption, HRTEM, and H2 pulse chemisorption measurements. XRD patterns of the calcined material revealed the presence of NiO particles, while calcination in an inert atmosphere produced Ni particles through in situ reduction of NiO. The reaction proceeded without external H2 flow using formic acid as hydrogen source. The Ni/SiO2 catalyst prepared by the citric acid assisted method and calcined in inert gas flow was the most efficient for the hydrogenation of levulinic acid without external H2 flow. The high catalytic performance was attributed to the high dispersion of cheap and earth‐abundant Ni nanoparticles and optimal porosity.
Long‐term outcomes for patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia who discontinue ibrutinib
Authors: Jain Preetesh , Thompson Philip A. , Keating Michael , Estrov Zeev , Ferrajoli Alessandra , Jain Nitin , Kantarjian Hagop , Burger Jan A. , O'Brien Susan , Wierda William G.
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND

Ibrutinib is a Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitor and is approved for the treatment of patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) in frontline and relapsed/refractory settings. The authors previously reported poor outcomes for patients who discontinued ibrutinib; however, long‐term outcomes were not reported.

METHODS

Data from 320 patients who received ibrutinib on clinical studies between 2010 and 2015 at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center were retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

Long‐term outcomes among patients with CLL after they discontinued ibrutinib were analyzed. Ninety of 320 patients (28%) who were treated on ibrutinib‐based regimens discontinued ibrutinib. Of these, 80 had relapsed/refractory disease, and 10 were treatment‐naive. The median time to discontinuation was 15 months (range, 1.2‐54 months). After a median follow‐up of 38 months after starting ibrutinib, 40 patients (44%) remained alive. Major reasons for ibrutinib discontinuation were intolerance (n = 29; 32%), miscellaneous (n = 28; 31%), progression (n = 19; 21%), and Richter transformation (RT) (n = 9; 10%). The median survival according to the reason for discontinuation was 33 months for ibrutinib intolerance, 11 months for miscellaneous causes, 16 months for progressive CLL, and 2 months for RT. Among the 19 patients who had progressive CLL, 42% responded to subsequent therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Ibrutinib discontinuation was observed during therapy. Patients with CLL who had disease transformation had especially poor outcomes, whereas those who developed progressive disease during ibrutinib therapy had a median survival of <1.5 years. Survival was associated with the reason for discontinuation; patients who had progressive CLL had better survival compared with those who had disease transformation. Effective salvage strategies for patients with CLL who progress on ibrutinib therapy is of critical importance. Cancer 2017;123:2268–2273. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
Gel‐like Carbon Dots: Characterization and their Potential Applications
Authors: Zhou Yiqun , Desserre Alexandra , Sharma Shiv K. , Li Shanghao , Marksberry M. Hensley , Chusuei Charles C. , Blackwelder Patricia L. , Leblanc Roger M.
Published: February 2017

Highly photoluminescent gel‐like carbon dots (G‐CDs) were successfully synthesized for the first time by a rapid one‐step solvothermal synthesis approach with citric acid and 1,2‐ethylenediamine as the precursors. Their gel‐like nature was revealed by the Tyndall and coagulation effects, which were elucidated by a negative ζ potential value. The influences of temperature on the properties and sizes of these G‐CDs were analyzed, and the best method for a maximum quantum yield was identified. The resulting products emitted blue photoluminescence under UV light (λ=365 nm) and a gradient of color under regular light. In addition, the UV/Vis absorption and fluorescence emission spectra of the G‐CDs indicated that those synthesized at 160 °C exhibited the highest fluorescence quantum yield (33 %). Atomic force microscopy and transmission electron microscopy measurements were performed, and a higher temperature of formation resulted in smaller G‐CDs. Furthermore, band shifts in the UV/Vis and fluorescence spectra and sequential changes in the quantum yield values and ζ potentials in addition to elemental compositional changes as determined by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy were monitored throughout the formation process of the G‐CDs. As to applications, G‐CDs were prepared as an invisible ink for printers, which exhibited the applicability of G‐CDs in daily life and military activities.
Anorexia nervosa with massive pulmonary air leak and extraordinary propagation
Authors: Jensen V. M. , Støving R. K. , Andersen P. E.
Published: February 2017

A rare case combining pneumothorax, pneumomediastinum, pneumopericardium, pneumoperitoneum, pneumorrhachis, air in retroperitoneum and extensive subcutaneous emphysema simultaneously in a severely anorectic male with BMI 9.2 (22.8 kg) and multiple vomitings is presented. This unusual condition was treated successfully with conservative medical approach in a specialized somatic unit for anorexia nervosa.
Local Desymmetrization through Diastereotopic Group Selection: An Enabling Strategy for Natural Product Synthesis
Authors: Horwitz Matthew A. , Johnson Jeffrey S.
Published: February 2017

The application of desymmetrization strategies in chemical synthesis has allowed fundamentally new synthetic sequences that efficiently create dense and polyfunctional stereochemical arrays. Enantiotopic group discrimination has become a well‐established method of global desymmetrization, whereas the conceptually unique strategy of local desymmetrization by diastereotopic group discrimination has its own advantages. This microreview focuses on the application of local desymmetrization in natural product synthesis and places particular emphasis on the efficiency engendered by diastereotopic group discrimination. Local desymmetrization is subdivided into three distinct variants; examples under each paradigm are presented and compared.
PEDOT/C Composites used as a Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell Catalyst Support: Role of Carbon Amount
Authors: Daş Elif , Bayrakçeken Yurtcan Ayşe
Published: February 2017

Carbon‐based support materials are mostly used in proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs); however, they often suffer from degradation under the operating conditions. In this context, conducting polymers and their composites stand out as a good alternative support material thanks to their chemical stability, high electrical conductivity, and higher oxidation‐resistant properties, which fulfills the requirements for possible utilization as electrocatalyst in PEMFCs. This study reports the preparation of poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene)/carbon (PEDOT/C) composite‐supported Pt nanoparticles for PEMFC electrodes. First, PEDOT/C composites were prepared using different carbon amounts by in situ chemical oxidative polymerization of EDOT monomer on carbon particles. Then, Pt nanoparticles (about 20 % loading) were obtained by using a microwave irradiation technique as it is fast, inexpensive, energy and time saving, and ecofriendly. The successful synthesis was confirmed by XRD, TEM, and thermogravimetric analysis investigations. The surface area and pore structure of the PEDOT/C supports was also investigated by using the BET technique. The ex situ and in situ electrochemical analyses were performed by using cyclic voltammetry and PEMFC performance tests. The obtained results for the fuel cell open the way for the use of PEDOT/C composite support materials as electrocatalysts for fuel cells.
Treatment of hepatitis C virus infection in patients with cirrhosis and predictive value of model for end‐stage liver disease: Analysis of data from the Hepa‐C registry
Authors: Fernández Carrillo Carlos , Lens Sabela , Llop Elba , Pascasio Juan Manuel , Crespo Javier , Arenas Juan , Fernández Inmaculada , Baliellas Carme , Carrión José Antonio , de la Mata Manuel , Buti Maria , Castells Lluís , Albillos Agustín , Romero Manuel , Turnes Juan , Pons Clara , Moreno‐Planas José María , Moreno‐Palomares José Javier , Fernández‐Rodriguez Conrado , García‐Samaniego Javier , Prieto Martín , Fernández Bermejo Miguel , Salmerón Javier , Badia Ester , Salcedo Magdalena , Herrero José Ignacio , Granados Rafael , Blé Michel , Mariño Zoe , Calleja José Luis
Published: February 2017

Direct‐acting antiviral agents (DAAs) are highly effective and well tolerated in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus infection, including those with compensated cirrhosis. However, fewer data are available in patients with more advanced liver disease. Our retrospective, noninterventional, national, multicenter study in patients from the Spanish Hepa‐C registry investigated the effectiveness and safety of interferon‐free DAA regimens in patients with advanced liver disease, including those with decompensated cirrhosis, in routine practice (all currently approved regimens were registered). Patients transplanted during treatment or within 12 weeks of completing treatment were excluded. Among 843 patients with cirrhosis (Child‐Turcotte‐Pugh [CTP] class A, n = 564; CTP class B/C, n = 175), 90% achieved sustained virologic response 12 weeks after treatment (SVR12). Significant differences in SVR12 and relapse rates were observed between CTP class A and CTP class B/C patients (94% versus 78%, and 4% versus 14%, respectively; both P < 0.001). Serious adverse events (SAEs) were more common in CTP class B/C versus CTP class A patients (50% versus 12%, respectively; P < 0.001). Incident decompensation was the most common serious adverse event (7% overall). Death rate during the study period was 16/843 (2%), significantly higher among CTP class B/C versus CTP class A patients (6.4% versus 0.9%; P < 0.001). Baseline Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score alone (cut‐off 18) was the best predictor of survival. Conclusion: Patients with decompensated cirrhosis receiving DAAs present lower response rates and experience more SAEs. In this setting, a MELD score ≥18 may help clinicians to identify those patients with a higher risk of complications and to individualize treatment decisions. (Hepatology 2017;65:1810‐1822).
Modeling and solving assembly line design problems by considering human factors with a real‐life application
Authors: Baykasoglu Adil , Tasan Seren Ozmehmet , Tasan Ali Serdar , Akyol Sebnem Demirkol
Published: February 2017

Ergonomics has been playing an important role in assembly system design (ASD) that contains not only the main assembly line balancing problem but also the subassembly line balancing and assembly layout problem. The ergonomics in ASD has an impact both on productivity and on workers’ health, especially when frequent changes in the product mix occur. In this study, we propose a systematic approach in order to handle ASD, which consists of three subproblems, while considering ergonomic risk factors. The first two subproblems are solved simultaneously using the proposed rule‐based constructive search algorithm, where ergonomic risks are evaluated by OCRA method. Later, layout problem is solved under transportation constraints using local search methods with various neighborhood structures. To provide the applicability and evaluate the performance of the proposed systematic approach, a real‐life case study in a harness manufacturing company is solved and prototype productions are performed.
Heat Transfer Performance of Heat Pipe Radiator with SiO2/Water Nanofluids
Authors: Shi Jiyuan , Zhao Weilin , Li Jinkai , Liu Zongming
Published: February 2017

The effect of nanofluids on thermal performance of the miniature heat pipe radiator which was assembled by two heat pipes containing 0.6 vol.% SiO2/water nanofluids and 30 pieces of rectangular aluminum fins was investigated experimentally and theoretically. The wall temperatures of the miniature heat pipe and fin surface temperatures were measured. Results showed that the utilization of SiO2/water nanofluids as a working fluid in the heat pipe enhanced the heat performance by reducing wall temperature differences. Compared with Deionized water (DI water), the thermal resistance of the miniature heat pipe with SiO2/water nanofluids decreased by about 23% to 40%. Furthermore, the theoretical calculation on a basis of one dimension found that the fin heat dissipation in the miniature heat pipe radiator charged SiO2/water nanofluids was about 1.17 times of that of the DI water radiator.
Double Diffusive Flows over a Stretching Sheet of Variable Thickness with or without Surface Mass Transfer
Authors: Patil P. M. , Roy S. , Moitsheki R. J. , Momoniat E.
Published: February 2017

This paper presents a numerical investigation of the steady two‐dimensional mixed convection flow along a vertical semi‐infinite stretching sheet of variable thickness. The effect of double diffusion on velocity, thermal and concentration fields in presence of power‐law temperature and concentration distributions at wall along with surface mass transfer is considered. The nonlinear coupled partial differential equations governing the flow, thermal and concentration fields are first transformed into a nondimensional set of coupled nonlinear partial differential equations and solved numerically using an implicit finite‐difference scheme in combination with the Newton's linearization technique to obtain nonsimilar solutions at each stream‐wise location. Numerical results are presented to discuss the effects of various physical parameters on the velocity, temperature, and concentration fields. Furthermore, the numerical results for the local skin friction coefficient, local Nusselt number, and local Sherwood number are also reported. For a fixed buoyancy force, the skin friction coefficient and Nusselt number increase with Prandtl number. The increase in the Prandtl number causes about a 30% reduction in the thickness of the thermal boundary layer. The wall thickness parameter enhances the thickness of the momentum boundary layer and the velocity overshoot is observed up to 20% for wall thickness parameter . In contrast, the increase of power‐law index parameter m from to reduces approximately 10% to 25% the momentum and thermal boundary layer thicknesses depending on the values of other parameters
Enhancing Social Support Postincarceration: Results From a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Pettus‐Davis Carrie , Dunnigan Allison , Veeh Christopher A. , Howard Matthew Owen , Scheyett Anna M. , Roberts‐Lewis Amelia
Published: February 2017

Objective

Over 50% of released prisoners are reincarcerated within 3 years. Social support from loved ones postincarceration significantly reduces the likelihood of reincarceration. Increasingly, intervention developers aim to implement interventions that will enhance the stability of support available. This study responds to gaps in knowledge.

Method

The current efficacy study reports findings from a randomized controlled trial (n= 57) of a social support intervention. A priori power analysis indicated moderate effect sizes could be detected. Participants were men, average age was 25 years, and over 90% were African American. Preliminary effects on social support, cognitions, substance use, and rearrest were assessed. Recruitment and consent occurred in prison; the intervention and 4 follow‐ups occurred postrelease.

Results

Findings converge with research indicating declines in social support (b = −.70, p < .05) and perceived quality of support (b = .05, p < .01) over time. Age showed inverse relationships with support (b = −1.77, p < .05). There were no statistically significant group effects for social support, cognitions, substance use (with the exception of marijuana), or recidivism. Clinical implications are discussed.

Conclusion

This study advances research on intervention dosage, potency, and measurement considerations.
Trends in breast cancer surgery at Brazil's public health system
Authors: Freitas‐Júnior Ruffo , Gagliato Debora Melo , Moura Filho João Wesley Cabral , Gouveia Pollyana Alves , Rahal Rosemar Macedo Sousa , Paulinelli Régis Resende , Oliveira Luis Fernando Pádua , Freitas Paola Ferreira , Martins Edesio , Urban Cicero , Lucena Clécio Ênio Murta
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

To analyze time trend patterns in Breast Cancer (BC) surgeries performed at Brazil's Public Health System, known as SUS from 2008 to 2014.

METHODS

Ecological study of time series, based on the database system from SUS. Information on surgical procedures performed for BC treatment was collected. Analysis of the absolute number of surgeries was performed using Poisson Regression through Jointpoint Regression, and the trends were calculated through the annual percentage change (APC), with a confidence interval (CI) of 95%, and statistical significance when P < 0.05.

RESULTS

Data analysis from 193.596 breast surgeries revealed a reduced number of simple mastectomies (APC −4.4%; CI −7.4 to −1.4; P < 0.05); stable trends in radical mastectomy with lymphadenectomy (APC −1.0%; CI −2.4 to 0.5; P = 0.1) and breast conserving surgery (APC 0.4%; CI −1.6 to 2.4; P = 0.6). Also, we observed a reduced number of axillary lymphadenectomy dissection (APC −16.8%; CI −26.8 to −5.4; P < 0.05); increased trends in breast reconstruction with implants after 2011 (APC 9.1%; CI 0.1‐18.8; P < 0.05) and with flaps after 2012 (APC 61.3%; CI 41.3‐84.0; P < 0.05). The overall rate of patients with breast reconstruction increased from 15% in 2008 to 29.2% in 2014.

CONCLUSIONS

We found a significant increase in breast reconstruction in public health system in Brazil, and also a reduction in simple mastectomy and axillary lymphadenectomy.
Predictable features attract urban coyotes to residential yards
Authors: Murray Maureen H. , St. Clair Colleen Cassady
Published: February 2017

Several species of urban‐adapted carnivores, including coyotes (Canis latrans), use anthropogenic resources in residential areas, which may increase rates of encounters and conflict with people. These negative interactions might be reduced with more understanding of individual variation in the use of residential areas and if attractants were better predicted by residents and targeted for securement or removal. We fitted 19 urban coyotes with global positioning system (GPS) collars (11 healthy, 8 with sarcoptic mange [Sarcoptes scabiei]) and compared their selection for residential areas at different times of day. We also identified 173 clusters of GPS locations (representing foraging and bedding sites) and paired them with available sites to measure selection for anthropogenic food, shelter, and visual cover. Seventeen of 19 coyotes avoided residential areas in general, but lesser avoidance of residential areas occurred in animals that used these areas during the day. Backyards selected by coyotes were 66.7 times less likely to have fences, 22.2 times more likely to contain anthropogenic food, and had 3.3 times as much visual cover than available yards. Diseased coyotes were 9 times more likely than healthy animals to select for yards with anthropogenic food. Our results suggest that coarse measurements of habitat selection via land cover classes may underestimate the attraction to wildlife of particular features in residential areas. Greater management of these features by municipal governments, residents, and communities might reduce animal use, disease transmission, and human‐wildlife conflict for diverse species in urban areas. © 2017 The Wildlife Society.
Embedding Knowledge Management into Business Processes
Authors: Massingham Peter , Al Holaibi Moshary
Published: February 2017

The paper examines how knowledge management may be used to achieve business process improvement by embedding knowledge management within problem processes. The paper presents knowledge as skilful knowing, and this occurs at the individual, group, and organizational levels. How the organization manages skilful knowing at these three levels is determined by its knowledge management. The paper applies lean thinking principles to identify inefficiencies in workflow and knowledge flow, which we call waste points. It then applies a knowledge management conceptual framework to identify why these waste points exist and to surface solutions. Knowledge management is then embedded into the problem processes to remove the waste points, allow knowledge to flow, and improve the efficiency of workflow. The results are based on a case study of three Saudi Arabia universities. The results have implications for researchers and practitioners. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Erythropoietin accelerates functional recovery after moderate sciatic nerve crush injury
Authors: Geary Michael B. , Li Haiyan , Zingman Alissa , Ketz John , Zuscik Michael , De Mesy Bentley Karen L. , Noble Mark , Elfar John C.
Published: February 2017

Introduction

Erythropoietin (EPO) has been identified as a neuroregenerative agent. We hypothesize that it may accelerate recovery after crush injury and may vary with crush severity.

Methods

Mice were randomized to mild, moderate, or severe crush of the sciatic nerve and were treated with EPO or vehicle control after injury. The sciatic function index (SFI) was monitored over the first week. Microstructural changes were analyzed by immunofluorescence for neurofilament (NF) and myelin (P0), and electron microscopy was used to assess ultrastructural changes.

Results

In moderate crush injuries, EPO significantly improved SFI at 7 days post‐injury, an effect not observed with other severity levels. Increases in the ratio of P0 to NF were observed after EPO treatment in moderate crush injuries. Electron microscopy demonstrated endothelial cell hypertrophy in the EPO group.

Conclusions

EPO accelerates recovery in moderately crushed nerves, which may be through effects on myelination and vascularization. Injury severity may influence the efficacy of EPO. Muscle Nerve 56: 143–151, 2017.
An Optically Isotropic Antiferroelectric Liquid Crystal (OI‐AFLC) Display Mode Operating over a Wide Temperature Range using Ternary Bent‐Core Liquid Crystal Mixtures
Authors: Bergquist Leah , Zhang Cuiyu , Ribeiro de Almeida Roberta R. , Pellegrene Brittany , Salamonczyk Miroslaw , Kim Matthew , Hwang Jung‐Im , Kim Kyeong‐Jin , Lee Joun‐Ho , Jákli Antal , Hegmann Torsten
Published: February 2017

We report on the synthesis and characterization of bent‐core liquid crystal (LC) compounds and the preparation of mixtures that provide an optically isotropic antiferroelectric (OI‐AFLC) liquid crystal display mode over a very wide temperature interval and well below room temperature. From the collection of compounds synthesized during this study, we recognized that several ternary mixtures displayed a modulated SmCaPA phase down to below −40 °C and up to about 100 °C on both heating and cooling, as well as optical tilt angles in the transformed state of approximately 45° (optically isotropic state). The materials were fully characterized and their liquid crystal as well as electro‐optical properties analyzed by polarized optical microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, synchrotron X‐ray diffraction, dielectric spectroscopy, and electro‐optical tests.
Accurate predictions of orientation dependent modulus in short‐fiber‐reinforced composite with experimental validation
Authors: Tseng Huan‐Chang , Chang Rong‐Yeu , Hsu Chia‐Hsiang
Published: February 2017

Predictions of fiber orientation dependent mechanical properties are extremely important in the automotive industry for injection molded fiber‐reinforced thermoplastic composites. Prior studies on three‐dimensional (3D) numerical computations have not had satisfactory results in the searches for significant deviation in the core region and skin boundary of a fiber orientation pattern, although the orientation in the shell layer was predicted fairly well. To perform the connection between fiber orientation and the mechanical properties in a familiar short‐fiber composite, therefore they aim for accurate predictions of the anisotropic fiber orientation at various flow factors in a reliable, 3D injection molding simulation within a new objective fiber orientation model. Comparisons of the predictive fiber orientation and tensile modulus with related experimental data were also made herein, as well as including variation in the modulus along the flow distance from the gate. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:2847–2859, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Collagen immunoassay as a method to optimise surface functionalisation
Authors: Stynes Gil , Kiroff George , Morrison Wayne , Kirkland Mark
Published: February 2017

Traditional methods of assessing surface functionalisation, including spectroscopy and chemical labelling, often involve significant error and conjecture about bonds. Proteins that improve cell attachment have specific pKa's and optimum binding requirements that may differ from the conditions required for chemical labelling. The utility of collagen ELISA to optimise acetaldehyde glow discharge polymerisation reactor parameters was tested. Accurate stepwise increases in collagen conjugation strength were demonstrated by incubating specimens in 8 M urea for 5–8 days followed by ELISA to test for residual surface collagen. Surface modifications also were assessed by XPS. The results indicated that ELISA after bond‐stressing with urea may suffice for optimising surface functionalisation and that traditional methods of analysis may be superfluous if protein conjugation is the aim of functionalisation.
Crystal structure of TBC1D15 GTPase‐activating protein (GAP) domain and its activity on Rab GTPases
Authors: Chen Yan‐Na , Gu Xin , Zhou X. Edward , Wang Weidong , Cheng Dandan , Ge Yinghua , Ye Fei , Xu H. Eric , Lv Zhengbing
Published: February 2017

TBC1D15 belongs to the TBC (Tre‐2/Bub2/Cdc16) domain family and functions as a GTPase‐activating protein (GAP) for Rab GTPases. So far, the structure of TBC1D15 or the TBC1D15·Rab complex has not been determined, thus, its catalytic mechanism on Rab GTPases is still unclear. In this study, we solved the crystal structures of the Shark and Sus TBC1D15 GAP domains, to 2.8 Å and 2.5 Å resolution, respectively. Shark‐TBC1D15 and Sus‐TBC1D15 belong to the same subfamily of TBC domain‐containing proteins, and their GAP‐domain structures are highly similar. This demonstrates the evolutionary conservation of the TBC1D15 protein family. Meanwhile, the newly determined crystal structures display new variations compared to the structures of yeast Gyp1p Rab GAP domain and TBC1D1. GAP assays show that Shark and Sus GAPs both have higher catalytic activity on Rab11a·GTP than Rab7a·GTP, which differs from the previous study. We also demonstrated the importance of arginine and glutamine on the catalytic sites of Shark GAP and Sus GAP. When arginine and glutamine are changed to alanine or lysine, the activities of Shark GAP and Sus GAP are lost.
Functional clues from the crystal structure of an orphan periplasmic ligand‐binding protein from Treponema pallidum
Authors: Brautigam Chad. A. , Deka Ranjit K. , Liu Wei Z. , Tomchick Diana R. , Norgard Michael V.
Published: February 2017

The spirochete Treponema pallidum is the causative agent of syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection of major global importance. Other closely related subspecies of Treponema also are the etiological agents of the endemic treponematoses, such as yaws, pinta, and bejel. The inability of T. pallidum and its close relatives to be cultured in vitro has prompted efforts to characterize T. pallidum's proteins structurally and biophysically, particularly those potentially relevant to treponemal membrane biology, with the goal of possibly revealing the functions of those proteins. This report describes the structure of the treponemal protein Tp0737; this polypeptide has a fold characteristic of a class of periplasmic ligand‐binding proteins associated with ABC‐type transporters. Although no ligand for the protein was observed in electron‐density maps, and thus the nature of the native ligand remains obscure, the structural data described herein provide a foundation for further efforts to elucidate the ligand and thus the function of this protein in T. pallidum.
Androgen Deprivation Accelerates the Prostatic Urethra Wound Healing After Thulium Laser Resection of the Prostate by Promoting Re‐Epithelialization and Regulating the Macrophage Polarization
Authors: Wang Xing‐Jie , Zhuo Jian , Luo Guang‐Heng , Zhu Yi‐Ping , Yu Dian‐Jun , Zhao Rui‐Zhe , Jiang Chen‐Yi , Shi Yun‐Feng , Li Hao , Chen Lei , Hao Kui‐Yuan , Han Xia , Zhao Sheng , Bei Xiao‐Yu , Jing Yi‐Feng , Xia Shu‐Jie
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND

Complications after a thulium laser resection of the prostate (TmLRP) are related to re‐epithelialization of the prostatic urethra. Since prostate growth and development are induced by androgen, the aim of this study was to determine the role and explore the mechanism of androgen in wound healing of the prostatic urethra.

METHODS

Beagles that received TmLRPs were randomly distributed into a castration group, a testosterone undecanoate (TU) group, and a control group. The prostate wound was assessed once a week using a cystoscope. Histological analysis was then carried out to study the re‐epithelialization of the prostatic urethra in each group. The inflammatory response in the wound tissue and urine was also investigated.

RESULTS

The healing of the prostatic urethra after a TmLRP was more rapid in the castration group and slower in the TU group than that in the control group. Castration accelerated re‐epithelialization by promoting basal cell proliferation in the wound surface and beneath the wound and by accelerating the differentiation of basal cells into urothelial cells. Castration reduced the duration of the inflammatory phase and induced the conversion of M1 macrophages to M2 macrophages, thus accelerating the maturation of the wound. By contrast, androgen supplementation enhanced the inflammatory response and prolonged the inflammatory phase. Moreover, the anti‐inflammatory phase was delayed and weakened.

CONCLUSION

Androgen deprivation promotes re‐epithelialization of the wound, regulates the inflammatory response, and accelerates wound healing of the prostatic urethra after a TmLRP. Prostate 77:708–717, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Degradation of dimethyl disulphide in soil with or without biochar amendment
Authors: Han Dawei , Yan Dongdong , Cao Aocheng , Fang Wensheng , Liu Pengfei , Li Yuan , Ouyang Canbin , Wang Qiuxia
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND

Dimethyl disulphide (DMDS) is a new and effective alternative to methyl bromide for soil fumigation. The effect of biochar on the fate of DMDS in soil is not fully understood. The objective of this study was to determine the degradation kinetics of DMDS in different soils and evaluate the effect of biochar amendment on DMDS degradation using incubation experiments.

RESULTS

The degradation half‐life of DMDS was between 1.05 and 6.66 days under non‐sterile conditions, and 12.63 to 22.67 days under sterile conditions in five types of soil. Seven out of the eight tested biochar amendments (BC‐2 to BC‐8) delayed the degradation of DMDS in soil, increasing the half‐life of DMDS in Fangshan soil from 1.05 to 1.16–5.87 days following amendment with 1% (w/w) biochar. The degradation rate of DMDS in Fangshan soil accelerated as the amendment rate of BC‐1 increased, and decreased as the amendment rate of BC‐7 increased.

CONCLUSION

Biodegradation is an important degradation route for DMDS in soil, and DMDS degraded faster in alkaline soil. The effects of biochar amendments on DMDS degradation in soil are determined by complex multiple factors (such as surface area, pH and physicochemical composition), rather than by any single property of biochar. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Structural and electrical properties of InAs/GaSb superlattices grown by metalorganic vapor phase epitaxy for midwavelength infrared detectors
Authors: Arikata Suguru , Kyono Takashi , Miura Kouhei , Balasekaran Sundararajan , Inada Hiroshi , Iguchi Yasuhiro , Sakai Michito , Katayama Haruyoshi , Kimata Masafumi , Akita Katsushi
Published: February 2017

InAs/GaSb superlattice (SL) structures were fabricated on GaSb substrates by metalorganic vapor phase epitaxy (MOVPE) toward midwavelength infrared (MWIR) photodiodes. Almost defect‐free 200‐period SLs with a strain‐compensation interfacial layer were successfully fabricated and demonstrate an intense photoluminescence peak centered at 6.1 µm at 4 K and an external quantum efficiency of 31% at 3.5 µm at 20 K. These results indicate that the high‐performance MWIR detectors can be fabricated in application with the InAs/GaSb SLs grown by MOVPE as an attractive method for production.
A Joint Reliability and Imperfect Opportunistic Maintenance Optimization for a Multi‐State Weighted k‐out‐of‐n System Considering Economic Dependence and Periodic Inspection
Authors: Atashgar Karim , Abdollahzadeh Hadi
Published: February 2017

This paper formulates a model to simultaneously optimize the redundancy and imperfect opportunistic maintenance of a multi‐state weighted k‐out‐of‐n system. Different from existing approaches that consider binary or multi‐state elements, our approach considers modular redundancy in which each module/subsystem is composed of several multi‐state components in series. The status of each component is considered to degrade with use. Therefore, a new condition‐based opportunistic maintenance approach using three different thresholds for a component health state is developed. The objective is to determine 1) the minimal‐cost of k‐out‐of‐n system structure, 2) optimal imperfect opportunistic maintenance strategy, 3) optimal maintenance capacity, and 4) optimal inspection interval subject to an availability constraint. System availability is defined as the ability to satisfy consumer demand. Based on the three‐phase approach, a simulation procedure is used to evaluate the expected multi‐state system availability and life cycle costs. Also, a multi‐seed Tabu search heuristic algorithm with a proper neighborhood generation mechanism is proposed to solve the formulated problem. An application to the optimal design of a wind farm is provided to illustrate the proposed approach. Sensitivity analysis is conducted to discuss the influence of the different parameters of the simulation model. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Initial reaction mechanism between HO· and bisphenol‐F: Conformational dependence and the role of nonbond interactions
Authors: Bian Cheng , Li Yu , Wang Shujuan , Jing Xinli
Published: February 2017

Hydroxyl radical (HO·) plays an important role in the initial pyrolysis of hydroxyl‐containing polymers, such as phenolic resin (PR). In this study, the reaction mechanism between HO· and bisphenol‐F (BPF) or tetra‐methyl substituted BPFs, which were taken as the model molecules of PR, was studied with the density functional theory approach. The results based on the Fukui function and reduced density gradient function showed that, both the hydroxyls and the carbon atoms in the phenolic groups are the reactive sites for HO· attack. The hydroxyls are most likely to be attacked by HO· owing to the strong electrostatic potential around the hydroxyls and the low reaction barriers, especially for cis‐ o‐o' type BPF. The strong p—π (CH—π and OH—π) interaction between the phenolic rings in BPF leads to decreased conjugative effect of the phenolic rings, which further lead to decreased addition barriers and reaction rate constant.