bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Functionality of Surface Hydroxy Groups on the Selectivity and Activity of Carbon Dioxide Reduction over Cuprous Oxide in Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Yang Piaoping , Zhao Zhi‐Jian , Chang Xiaoxia , Mu Rentao , Zha Shenjun , Zhang Gong , Gong Jinlong
Published: April 2018

Carbon dioxide (CO2) reduction in aqueous solutions is an attractive strategy for carbon capture and utilization. Cuprous oxide (Cu2O) is a promising catalyst for CO2 reduction as it can convert CO2 into valuable hydrocarbons and suppress the side hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). However, the nature of the active sites in Cu2O remains under debate because of the complex surface structure of Cu2O under reducing conditions, leading to limited guidance in designing improved Cu2O catalysts. This paper describes the functionality of surface‐bonded hydroxy groups on partially reduced Cu2O(111) for the CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) by combined density functional theory (DFT) calculations and experimental studies. We find that the surface hydroxy groups play a crucial role in the CO2RR and HER, and a moderate coverage of hydroxy groups is optimal for promotion of the CO2RR and suppression of the HER simultaneously. Electronic structure analysis indicates that the charge transfer from hydroxy groups to coordination‐unsaturated Cu (CuCUS) sites stabilizes surface‐adsorbed COOH*, which is a key intermediate during the CO2RR. Moreover, the CO2RR was evaluated over Cu2O octahedral catalysts with {111} facets and different surface coverages of hydroxy groups, which demonstrates that Cu2O octahedra with moderate coverage of hydroxy groups can indeed enhance the CO2RR and suppress the HER.
Acid‐Induced Shift of Intramolecular Hydrogen Bonding Responsible for Excited‐State Intramolecular Proton Transfer
Authors: Wang Qin , Niu Yahui , Wang Rong , Wu Haoran , Zhang Yanrong
Published: April 2018

The significant progress recently achieved in designing smart acid‐responsive materials based on intramolecular charge transfer inspired us to utilize excited‐state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT) for developing a turn‐on acid‐responsive fluorescent system with an exceedingly large Stokes shift. Two ESIPT‐active fluorophores, 2‐(2‐hydroxyphenyl)pyridine (HPP) and 2‐(2‐hydroxyphenyl)benzothiazole (HBT), were fused into a novel dye (HBT‐HPP) fluorescent only in the protonated state. Moreover, we also synthesized three structurally relevant control compounds to compare their steady‐state fluorescence spectra and optimized geometric structures in neutral and acidic media. The results suggest that the fluorescence turn‐on was caused by the acid‐induced shift of the ESIPT‐responsible intramolecular hydrogen bond from the HPP to HBT moiety. This work presents a systematic comparison of the emission efficiencies and basicity of HBT and HPP for the first time, thereby utilizing their differences to construct an acid‐responsive smart organic fluorescent material. As a practical application, red fluorescent letters can be written using the acid as an ink on polymer film.
Robust Wind Speed Estimation and Control of Variable Speed Wind Turbines
Authors: Barambones Oscar
Published: April 2018

In this work, a robust control scheme for variable speed wind turbine system that incorporates a doubly feed induction generator is described. The sliding mode controller is designed in order to track the optimum wind turbine speed value that produces the maximum power extraction for different wind speed values. A robust sliding mode observer for the aerodynamic torque is also proposed in order to avoid the wind speed sensors in the control scheme. The controller uses the estimated aerodynamic torque in order to calculate the reference value for the wind turbine speed. Another sliding mode control is also proposed in order to maintain the dc‐link voltage constant regardless of the direction of the rotor power flow. The stability analysis of the proposed controller under disturbances and parameter uncertainties is provided using the Lyapunov stability theory. Finally, the simulation results show that the proposed control scheme provides a high‐performance turbine speed control, in order to obtain the maximum wind power generation, and a high‐performance dc‐link regulation in the presence of system uncertainties.
Comparison of epidemiological features, clinicopathological features, and treatments between premenopausal and postmenopausal female breast cancer patients in western China: a retrospective multicenter study of 15,389 female patients
Authors: Feng Fan , Wei Yuxian , Zheng Ke , Li Yujing , Zhang Lu , Wang Tielin , Zhang Yanli , Li Hongyuan , Ren Guosheng , Li Fan
Published: April 2018

Premenopausal and postmenopausal breast cancers are considered different types. Thus, this study aimed to explore differences in risk factors, epidemiological features, clinicopathological features, and treatment modes of premenopausal breast cancer compared to postmenopausal patients in western China. This was a hospital‐based, retrospective, multicenter epidemiological study of patients with breast cancer. Using the Western China Clinical Cooperation Group database, we obtained the records of 15,389 female breast cancers between January 2010 and April 2017. These patients were divided into premenopausal and postmenopausal groups, and their risk factors, epidemiological feature, clinicopathological features, and treatment modes were compared. Chi‐square tests, t‐test, and the multivariate logistic regression analysis were applied for statistical analysis. A total of 8395 patients were categorized as premenopausal, and 6994 patients were categorized as postmenopausal. Their risk factors, epidemiological features, clinicopathological features, and treatment modes were compared. Premenopausal patients with breast cancer had a greater tumor diameter at diagnosis (P = 0.008); higher rates of estrogen receptor (ER) expression (P < 0.0001), progesterone receptor (PR) expression (P < 0.0001), negative human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) expression (P = 0.015), and negative P53 expression (P < 0.0001); and higher proportions of receiving breast‐conserving surgery and breast reconstruction (P < 0.0001), chemotherapy (P < 0.0001), radiotherapy (P < 0.0001), and endocrine therapy (P < 0.0001). The ethnicity, age at menarche, marital status, number of pregnancies, and number of births were the risk factors for age at diagnosis of breast cancer before or after menopause in western China. We found that the fall in the fertility rate, early menarche age, married, and less breastfeeding might have increased the possibility of premenopausal breast cancer. Significant differences exist in the tumor size, hormone receptor state, HER2 expression, epidemiological features, and treatment modes between premenopausal and postmenopausal female breast cancer patients in western China. Its further implementation requires prospective clinical testing.
Atrial remodeling and ectopic burden in recreational athletes: Implications for risk of atrial fibrillation
Authors: Elliott Adrian D. , Mahajan Rajiv , Linz Dominik , Stokes Michael , Verdicchio Christian V. , Middeldorp Melissa E. , La Gerche Andre , Lau Dennis H. , Sanders Prashanthan
Published: April 2018

Background

Atrial remodeling, vagal tone, and atrial ectopic triggers are suggested to contribute to increased incidence of atrial fibrillation (AF) in endurance athletes. How these parameters change with increased lifetime training hours is debated.

Hypothesis

Atrial remodeling occurs in proportion to total training history, thus contributing to elevated risk of AF.

Methods

We recruited 99 recreational endurance athletes, subsequently grouped according to lifetime training hours, to undergo evaluation of atrial size, autonomic modulation, and atrial ectopy. Athletes were grouped by self‐reported lifetime training hours: low (<3000 h), medium (3000–6000 h), and high (>6000 h). Left atrial (LA) volume, left ventricular (LV) dimensions, and LV systolic and diastolic function were assessed by echocardiography. We used 48‐hour ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring to determine heart rate, heart rate variability, premature atrial contractions, and premature ventricular contractions.

Results

LA volume was significantly greater in the high (+5.1 mL/m2, 95% CI: 1.3–8.9) and medium (+4.2 mL/m2, 95% CI: 0.2–8.1) groups, compared with the low group. LA dilation was observed in 19.4%, 12.9%, and 0% of the high, medium, and low groups, respectively (P = 0.05). No differences were observed between groups for measures of LV dimensions or function. Minimum heart rate, parasympathetic tone expressed using heart rate variability indices, and premature atrial contraction and premature ventricular contraction frequencies did not differ between groups.

Conclusions

In recreational endurance athletes, increased lifetime training is associated with LA dilation in the absence of increased vagal parameters or atrial ectopy, which may promote incidence of AF in this cohort.
Whole‐exome sequencing reveals microsatellite DNA markers for response to dofetilide initiation in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation: A pilot study
Authors: Kinney Nick , Larsen Timothy R. , Kim David M. , Varghese Robin T. , Poelzing Steven , Garner Harold R. , AlMahameed Soufian T.
Published: April 2018

Background

Dofetilide is a class III antiarrhythmic drug effective for the treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF). Dofetilide initiation (DI) associates with corrected QT interval (QTc) prolongation. Significant QTc prolongation during DI mandates dose adjustment or discontinuation of the drug. Microsatellite DNA are novel genetic markers associated with congenital and acquired health conditions.

Hypothesis.

DNA microsatellite polymorphism may associate with QTc response to dofetilide initiation in patients with persistent AF.

Methods

We performed whole‐exome sequencing in a cohort of patients with persistent AF undergoing DI. Electrocardiographic variables and clinical data were assessed. We defined patients as eligible for DI when no significant QTc prolongation (>20% compared with baseline) was seen with a 500‐μg dose. We defined patients as ineligible for DI when significant QTc prolongation was seen during DI with 500 μg. We investigated polymorphisms for 11 919 DNA microsatellite loci in relation to QTc response to DI.

Results

During the study, 14 consecutive patients with persistent AF presenting for DI were enrolled. Whole‐exome sequencing revealed 14 different microsatellite loci in the 2 groups. All genes or proximal genes that harbor these loci are known to have expression in the human heart. Two genes, MYH6 and TRAK2, are known to have expression in the atria. TRAK2 is known to interact with KCNJ2, the inward‐rectifier potassium channel 1.

Conclusions

Microsatellite DNA polymorphisms seem to associate with QTc response to DI therapy in patients with persistent AF who are deemed otherwise eligible for dofetilide therapy.
Acute Effects of Riluzole and Retigabine on Axonal Excitability in Patients With Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A Randomized, Double‐Blind, Placebo‐Controlled, Crossover Trial
Authors: Kovalchuk Maria O. , Heuberger Jules A.A.C. , Sleutjes Boudewijn T.H.M. , Ziagkos Dimitrios , van den Berg Leonard H. , Ferguson Toby A. , Franssen Hessel , Groeneveld Geert Jan
Published: April 2018

Increased excitability of motor neurons in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) may be a relevant factor leading to motor neuron damage. This randomized, double‐blind, three‐way crossover, placebo‐controlled study evaluated peripheral motor nerve excitability testing as a biomarker of hyperexcitability and assessed the effects of riluzole and retigabine in 18 patients with ALS. We performed excitability testing at baseline, and twice after participants had received a single dose of either 100 mg riluzole, 300 mg retigabine, or placebo. Between‐ and within‐day repeatability was at least acceptable for 14 out of 18 recorded excitability variables. No effects of riluzole on excitability testing were observed, but retigabine significantly decreased strength‐duration time‐constant (9.2%) and refractoriness at 2 ms (10.2) compared to placebo. Excitability testing was shown to be a reliable biomarker in patients with ALS, and the acute reversal of previously abnormal variables by retigabine justifies long‐term studies evaluating the impact on disease progression and survival.
Response diversity, functional redundancy, and post‐logging productivity in northern temperate and boreal forests
Authors: Correia David Laginha Pinto , Raulier Frédéric , Bouchard Mathieu , Filotas Élise
Published: April 2018

The development of efficient ecosystem resilience indicators was identified as one of the key research priorities in the improvement of existing sustainable forest management frameworks. Two indicators of tree diversity associated with ecosystem functioning have recently received particular attention in the literature: functional redundancy (FR) and response diversity (RD). We examined how these indicators could be used to predict post‐logging productivity in forests of Québec, Canada. We analysed the relationships between pre‐logging FR and RD, as measured with sample plots, and post‐logging productivity, measured as seasonal variation in enhanced vegetation index obtained from MODIS satellite imagery. The effects of the deciduous and coniferous tree components in our pre‐disturbance diversity assessments were isolated in order to examine the hypothesis that they have different impacts on post‐disturbance productivity. We also examined the role of tree species richness and species identity effects. Our analysis revealed the complementary nature of traditional biodiversity indicators and trait‐based approaches in the study of biodiversity–ecosystem‐functioning relationships in dynamic ecosystems. We report a significant and positive relationship between pre‐disturbance deciduous RD and post‐disturbance productivity, as well as an unexpected significant negative effect of coniferous RD on productivity. This negative relationship with post‐logging productivity likely results from slower coniferous regeneration speeds and from the relatively short temporal scale examined. Negative black‐spruce‐mediated identity effects were likely associated with increased stand vulnerability to paludification and invasion by ericaceous shrubs that slow down forest regeneration. Response diversity outperformed functional redundancy as a measure of post‐disturbance productivity most likely due to the stand‐replacing nature of the disturbance considered. To the best of our knowledge, this is among the first studies to report a negative significant relationship between a component of RD and ecosystem functioning, namely coniferous RD and forest ecosystem productivity after a stand‐replacing disturbance.
Differential levels of gene expression and molecular mechanisms between red maple (Acer rubrum) genotypes resistant and susceptible to nickel toxicity revealed by transcriptome analysis
Authors: Nkongolo Kabwe , Theriault Gabriel , Michael Paul
Published: April 2018

Knowledge of regulation of genes associated with metal resistance in higher plants is very limited. Many plant species have developed different genetic mechanisms and metabolic pathways to cope with metal toxicity. The main objectives of this study were to 1) assess gene expression dynamics of A. rubrum in response to nickel (Ni) stress and 2) describe gene function based on ontology. Certified A. rubrum genotypes were treated with 1,600 mg of Ni per 1 Kg of soil corresponding to a soil total nickel content in a metal‐contaminated region in Ontario, Canada. Nickel resistant and susceptible genotypes were selected and used for transcriptome analysis. Overall, 223,610,443 bases were generated. Trinity reads were assembled to trinity transcripts. The transcripts were mapped to protein sequences and after quality controls and appropriate trimmings, 66,783 annotated transcripts were selected as expressed among the libraries. The study reveals that nickel treatment at a high dose of 1,600 mg/kg triggers regulation of several genes. When nickel‐resistant genotypes were compared to water controls, 6,263 genes were upregulated and 3,142 were downregulated. These values were 3,308 and 2,176, respectively, when susceptible genotypes were compared to water control. The coping mechanism of A. rubrum to Ni toxicity was elucidated. Upregulation of genes associated with transport in cytosol was prevalent in resistant genotypes compared to controls while upregulation of genes associated with translation in the ribosome was higher in susceptible genotypes when compared to water. The analysis revealed no major gene associated with Ni resistance in A. rubrum. Overall, the results of this study suggest that the genetic mechanism controlling the resistance of this species to nickel is controlled by genes with limited expression. The subtle differences between resistant and susceptible genotypes in gene regulation were detected using water‐treated genotypes as references.
Dispersal capacity explains the evolution of lifespan variability
Authors: Galván Ismael , Møller Anders P.
Published: April 2018

The evolutionary explanation for lifespan variation is still based on the antagonistic pleiotropy hypothesis, which has been challenged by several studies. Alternative models assume the existence of genes that favor aging and group benefits at the expense of reductions in individual lifespans. Here we propose a new model without making such assumptions. It considers that limited dispersal can generate, through reduced gene flow, spatial segregation of individual organisms according to lifespan. Individuals from subpopulations with shorter lifespan could thus resist collapse in a growing population better than individuals from subpopulations with longer lifespan, hence reducing lifespan variability within species. As species that disperse less may form more homogeneous subpopulations regarding lifespan, this may lead to a greater capacity to maximize lifespan that generates viable subpopulations, therefore creating negative associations between dispersal capacity and lifespan across species. We tested our model with individual‐based simulations and a comparative study using empirical data of maximum lifespan and natal dispersal distance in 26 species of birds, controlling for the effects of genetic variability, body size, and phylogeny. Simulations resulted in maximum lifespans arising from lowest dispersal probabilities, and comparative analyses resulted in a negative association between lifespan and natal dispersal distance, thus consistent with our model. Our findings therefore suggest that the evolution of lifespan variability is the result of the ecological process of dispersal.
Effects of Ionomer Carbon Ratio and Ionomer Dispersity on the Performance and Durability of MEAs
Authors: Lee M.‐R. , Lee H.‐Y. , Yim S.‐D. , Kim C.‐S. , Shul Y.‐G. , Kucernak A. , Shin D.
Published: April 2018

Membrane‐electrode assemblies (MEAs) are fabricated using different catalysts and ionomers, in order to investigate the effects of these factors on the performance and stability of the polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PEMFC). Platinum catalysts with different degrees of graphitization in the carbon support (less graphitized: Tanaka, more graphitized: RTX) are used. Perfluorosulfonic acid polymer‐based ionomers with water‐based or organic solvent‐based solvents are also prepared as binders for the electrode. The optimum composition of catalyst and ionomer is identified based on the results of cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, single cell performance, and long‐term durability tests. Tanaka catalyst and water‐based ionomer show the best performance and durability. In addition, the ionomer to carbon (I/C) weight ratio affects the fuel cell performance, and the optimum value is I/C = 1 for both water‐based and organic solvent‐based ionomers.
The Predicament of Bank Creditors in Chinese Bankruptcy and the Way Out
Authors: Wei Chuyi , Chen Yongwei
Published: April 2018

Although Chinese banks are the major creditors for companies in China, their role in bankruptcy is often neglected. Even if this may be justified in the past, as banks did not assume an important role, it is not the case now as banks have become more proactive in the bankruptcy procedure and begin to conduct debt‐for‐equity swaps under the initiative of the government. This article considers the role of Chinese banks in bankruptcy both in and out of formal bankruptcy procedure. It argues that based on the reality of the country, especially its corporate governance structure, bank intervention is feasible for corporate rescues in China. The debt‐for‐equity swap scheme could be the start. Copyright © 2018 INSOL International and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Association between pelvic organ prolapse types and levator‐urethra gap as measured by 3D transperineal ultrasound
Authors: Kozma Bence , Larson Kindra , Scott Lauren , Cunningham Tina D. , Abuhamad Alfred , Poka Robert , Takacs Peter
Published: April 2018

Objectives

To evaluate the association between pelvic organ prolapse (POP) types and levator‐urethra gap (LUG) as measured by 3‐dimensional transperineal tomographic ultrasound.

Methods

A retrospective study was carried out on 98 women with symptomatic POP. Three‐dimensional transperineal tomographic ultrasound images and POP quantification coordinates were reviewed. Each vaginal compartment was staged for the degree of prolapse, and total number of involved compartments identified. LUG was measured on 3‐dimensional tomographic sonograms as the distance between the center of the urethra and the levator insertion bilaterally. Based on prior studies, an abnormal LUG of 25 mm or greater indicated levator avulsion. The LUG and the presence or absence of unilateral/bilateral avulsions was analyzed with reference to the clinical diagnosis of prolapse (single versus multicompartment, and mild [stage II] versus severe [stage III–IV]). Generalized logit models were used to evaluate the association between avulsion and prolapse type and stage.

Results

The LUG was substantially larger in women with multicompartment compared to single‐compartment POP (28.9 ± 4.1 mm versus 22.7 ± 4.1 mm, P < .01). Similarly, LUG was substantially larger in women with severe (stage III–IV) compared to mild (stage II) POP (28.8 ± 4.7 mm versus 23.3 ± 4.5 mm, P < .01). Women with severe prolapse were 32 times more likely than women with mild prolapse to have bilateral levator avulsion. Those with POP involving all 3 vaginal compartments were 76 times more likely than single‐compartment POP to have bilateral levator avulsions.

Conclusions

Bilateral levator ani avulsion as diagnosed by LUG measurements of 25 mm or greater at rest is associated with multicompartment, severe prolapse.
Effectiveness of protected areas in preventing rubber expansion and deforestation in Xishuangbanna, Southwest China
Authors: Sarathchandra Chaya , Dossa Gbadamassi G.O. , Ranjitkar Niranjan Bhakta , Chen Huafang , Deli Zhai , Ranjitkar Sailesh , de Silva Kaluwa Handi Wasana Lalanthi , Wickramasinghe Sriyani , Xu Jianchu , Harrison Rhett D.
Published: April 2018

Protected areas (PAs) are supposedly key refuges for the world's remaining biodiversity. Our study site, Xishuangbanna, harbors a high proportion of China's biodiversity but is threatened by rapid deforestation and expansion of monoculture rubber. We quantified the success of Xishuangbanna's PAs in preventing deforestation. Most previous analyses of PA effectiveness have insufficiently accounted for biases arising from PA location and establishment, because they overlooked the importance of site‐matching in accounting for landscape change. We used matching methods to minimize such biases in comparing land use conversion rates inside and outside‐PAs. By 2010, Xishuangbanna had 3,455.5 km2 (~18%) designated as PAs. However, rubber occupied 22% of its land area and was expanding at a rate of 153.4 km2/year. Between 1988 and 2010, conventional analysis showed a deforestation rate of 9.3 km2/year. However, matching analysis showed a significantly higher rate of deforestation, 10.7 km2/year, which resulted in the deforestation of ~11% of PA's land. We argue that PAs were less effective than had previously been thought. The situation worsened from 2002 to 2010, when the deforestation rate within PAs was actually higher than that of outside PAs, although this difference was not significant. The designated higher levels of protection in ‘core’ zones were also unsuccessful in preventing deforestation. At current rates, within the next 50 years, a further 16% of PAs would be deforested in Xishuangbanna. This could even be an underestimate, as without intervention, drivers of deforestation tend to accelerate. Therefore, reviewing and strengthening current PA management policies is essential.
Low‐Temperature Wafer‐Scale Deposition of Continuous 2D SnS2 Films
Authors: Mattinen Miika , King Peter J. , Khriachtchev Leonid , Meinander Kristoffer , Gibbon James T. , Dhanak Vin R. , Räisänen Jyrki , Ritala Mikko , Leskelä Markku
Published: April 2018

Semiconducting 2D materials, such as SnS2, hold immense potential for many applications ranging from electronics to catalysis. However, deposition of few‐layer SnS2 films has remained a great challenge. Herein, continuous wafer‐scale 2D SnS2 films with accurately controlled thickness (2 to 10 monolayers) are realized by combining a new atomic layer deposition process with low‐temperature (250 °C) postdeposition annealing. Uniform coating of large‐area and 3D substrates is demonstrated owing to the unique self‐limiting growth mechanism of atomic layer deposition. Detailed characterization confirms the 1T‐type crystal structure and composition, smoothness, and continuity of the SnS2 films. A two‐stage deposition process is also introduced to improve the texture of the films. Successful deposition of continuous, high‐quality SnS2 films at low temperatures constitutes a crucial step toward various applications of 2D semiconductors.
Chiral anomalies on a circle and their cancellation in F-theory
Authors: Corvilain Pierre , Grimm Thomas W. , Regalado Diego
Published: April 2018

Abstract

We study in detail how four-dimensional local anomalies manifest themselves when the theory is compactified on a circle. By integrating out the Kaluza-Klein modes in a way that preserves the four-dimensional symmetries in the UV, we show that the three-dimensional theory contains field-dependent Chern-Simons terms that appear at one-loop. These vanish if and only if the four-dimensional anomaly is canceled, so the anomaly is not lost upon compactification. We extend this analysis to situations where anomalies are canceled through a Green-Schwarz mechanism. We then use these results to show automatic cancellation of local anomalies in F-theory compactifications that can be obtained as a limit of M-theory on a smooth Calabi-Yau fourfold with background flux.
Signatures of a light sterile neutrino in T2HK
Authors: Agarwalla Sanjib Kumar , Chatterjee Sabya Sachi , Palazzo Antonio
Published: April 2018

Abstract

We investigate the performance of T2HK in the presence of a light eV scale sterile neutrino. We study in detail its influence in resolving fundamental issues like mass hierarchy, CP-violation (CPV) induced by the standard CP-phase δ
13 and new CP-phase δ
14, and the octant ambiguity of θ
23. We show for the first time in detail that due to the impressive energy reconstruction capabilities of T2HK, the available spectral information plays an important role to enhance the mass hierarchy discovery reach of this experiment in 3ν framework and also to keep it almost intact even in 4ν scheme. This feature is also of the utmost importance in establishing the CPV due to δ
14. As far as the sensitivity to CPV due to δ
13 is concerned, it does not change much going from 3ν to 4ν case. We also examine the reconstruction capability of the two phases δ
13 and δ
14, and find that the typical 1σ uncertainty on δ
13 (δ
14) in T2HK is ∼ 150 (300). While determining the octant of θ
23, we face a complete loss of sensitivity for unfavorable combinations of unknown δ
13 and δ
14.
FURTHER INSIGHTS INTO PALEOINDIAN USE OF THE POWARS II RED OCHER QUARRY (48PL330), WYOMING
Authors: Frison George C. , Zeimens George M. , Pelton Spencer R. , Walker Danny N. , Stanford Dennis J. , Kornfeld Marcel
Published: April 2018

We report major new insights from recent research at the Powars II Paleoindian red ocher quarry (48PL330). We salvaged more than 7,000 artifacts from Powars II between 2014 and 2016 by screening redeposited sediment from the talus slope below the intact portion of the site. Clovis artifacts dominate the diagnostic artifact assemblage, including 53 Clovis points, 33 preforms, and artifacts associated with a previously unrecognized blade core industry. We report the first radiocarbon dates from the site, determined from dating bone tools, which indicate Cody-aged use (ca. >10,000 cal BP). Further, salvage efforts discovered a previously unknown toolstone source from which many of the Clovis artifacts were produced. The Powars II Clovis points most resemble early Paleoindian points from the far Northern Plains and were likely both produced and discarded in the red ocher quarry after hunting, as evidenced by preform production and the presence of impact fractures on many used points. Given these production and discard patterns, Powars II holds some of the best evidence archaeologists currently have for Paleoindian ritualism related to hunting.
Diplomatic Gifts: Rethinking Colonial Politics in Uganda through Objects
Authors: Bennett Alison
Published: April 2018

This article examines the material underpinnings of the political diplomacy pursued by Ugandan leaders towards European colonial figures in the late nineteenth century. Imperial historians have traditionally understood the institutional processes of treaty-making, diplomacy and state administration as part of the workings of the European “Official Mind.” As such, analyses have been overwhelmingly based upon written colonial sources such as governmental papers. This article provides an alternative perspective on institutional life in Uganda by demonstrating that material objects also served as sites of political praxis for both the governed and those governing when exchanged in the form of a gift. The products of these exchanges can be found in museums across Uganda, Kenya, and Britain. Their biographies shed important new light on the interactions between the material and political worlds as well as between local leaders and the imperial state, yet they have received little critical attention from historians. This article seeks to reinstate their role into the political process, and in doing so, reconfigures our understanding of these different imperial institutions.
The Alur-ization of Aidan Southall – Contested Ethnonymic Traditions in North-Western Uganda
Authors: Browne Adrian J.
Published: April 2018

This article concerns some of the personal commitments and relationships that compelled British anthropologist Aidan Southall to write his seminal essay titled “The Illusion of Tribe” (1970). It analyzes the contested ethnic movement that Southall’s doctoral work on the Alur obscured, the reasons for this act of concealment, and the ways these experiences shaped the ideas he later advanced.
Effects of dietary supplementation with milk fat globule membrane on the physical performance of community-dwelling Japanese adults: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Kokai Yasuo , Mikami Nana , Tada Mitsuhiro , Tomonobu Kazuichi , Ochiai Ryuji , Osaki Noriko , Katsuragi Yoshihisa , Sohma Hitoshi , Ito Yoichi M.
Published: April 2018

We conducted a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial to elucidate the effects of dietary milk fat globule membrane (MFGM) on the physical performance of community-dwelling Japanese adults. For this 24-week study, 115 middle-aged subjects (range 50–70 years old) were invited, of whom 113 (seventy-two women, forty-one men) completed the trial. Participants were then divided into either the placebo control or MFGM group. Measurements of physical performance (without undertaking any mandatory exercise) examining muscle strength, agility and balance were tested every 6 weeks until 24 weeks. Analyses were performed using the intention-to-treat method for all participants. Although the effects of MFGM on muscle strength and agility were not significant, we noted that the parameter for balance (such as the ability to stand on one leg with eyes closed for longer durations) increased in the MFGM group (mean 10·1 (95 % CI 8·25, 12·4) s) compared with the placebo (mean 7·53 (95 % CI 6·11, 9·30) s) (P = 0·046). Similarly, application of the mixed-effect model for repeated measures under unstructured covariance also revealed that the effect of MFGM was significant when compared with the placebo (10·2 (95 % CI 8·33, 12·4) v. 7·61 (95 % CI 6·17, 9·30) s) (P = 0·045). In conclusion, we demonstrated that MFGM had an effect on the physical performance of community-dwelling Japanese adults despite mandatory exercise. However, studies using larger cohorts of individuals from different demographic backgrounds are required to further elucidate the mechanisms underlying these effects and to extend the application of MFGM.
Risk of neurological, eye and ear disease in offspring to parents with schizophrenia or depression compared with offspring to healthy parents
Authors: Gunnarsdóttir Elin Dianna , Hällgren Jonas , Hultman Christina M , McNeil Thomas F , Crisby Milita , Sandin Sven
Published: April 2018

Background

Neurological, visual and hearing deviations have been observed in the offspring of parents with schizophrenia. This study test whether children to parents hospitalized with schizophrenia have increased the likelihood of childhood neurological disorder.

Methods

Among all parents in Sweden born 1950–1985 and with offspring born 1968–2002: 7107 children with a parent hospitalized for schizophrenia were compared to 172 982 children with no parents hospitalized for schizophrenia or major depression, as well as to 32 494 children with a parent hospitalized for major depression as a control population with another severe psychiatric outcome. We estimated relative risks (RR) and two-sided 95% confidence intervals calculated from Poisson regression.

Results

Children to parents with schizophrenia were more likely than controls to have been hospitalized before the age of 10 with a diagnosis of cerebral palsy, RR = 1.76 (95% CI: 1.15–2.69); epilepsy, RR = 1.78 (95% CI: 1.33–2.40), combined neurological disease, RR = 1.33 (95% CI: 1.11–1.60) and certain diseases of the eye, RR = 1.92 (95% CI: 1.17–3.15) and ear, RR = 1.18 (95% CI: 1.05–1.32). Similar disease-risk-pattern was found for children to parents hospitalized with a diagnosis of major depression. A specific risk increase for strabismus RR = 1.21 (95%CI: 1.05–1.40) was found for off-spring with parental depression.

Conclusions

Compared with children to healthy parents, children to parents with schizophrenia have increased risk of a variety of neurological disorders as well as visual and hearing disorders at an early age. The risk increase was not specific to schizophrenia but was also seen in children to parents with a diagnosis of major depression.
What Happened in the Summer ofa.d. 122? Hadrian on the British Frontier — Archaeology, Epigraphy and Historical Agency
Authors: Graafstal Erik
Published: April 2018

In the summer ofa.d.122, Hadrian (a.d.117–38) visited Britain as part of his first major journey. It is broadly accepted that the construction of Hadrian's Wall was inaugurated on this occasion. Following recent advances in Upper Germany where thelimespalisade is now known to have been under construction when Hadrian visited the province, this paper re-examines the various strands of evidence for the early chronology of the Wall. It is argued that work started well beforea.d.122 and that it was in fact the ‘fort decision’ which resulted from the imperial visit. The revised sequence offers a fresh perspective on several classic Wall problems and prepares the ground for a new understanding of unique features like the milecastles and Vallum.
Transverse electromagnetic Hermite–Gaussian mode-driven direct laser acceleration of electron under the influence of axial magnetic field
Authors: Ghotra Harjit Singh , Jaroszynski Dino , Ersfeld Bernhard , Saini Nareshpal Singh , Yoffe Samuel , Kant Niti
Published: April 2018

Hermite–Gaussian (HG) laser beam with transverse electromagnetic (TEM) mode indices (m, n) of distinct values (0, 1), (0, 2), (0, 3), and (0, 4) has been analyzed theoretically for direct laser acceleration (DLA) of electron under the influence of an externally applied axial magnetic field. The propagation characteristics of a TEM HG beam in vacuum control the dynamics of electron during laser–electron interaction. The applied magnetic field strengthens the $\vec v \times \vec B$ force component of the fields acting on electron for the occurrence of strong betatron resonance. An axially confined enhanced acceleration is observed due to axial magnetic field. The electron energy gain is sensitive not only to mode indices of TEM HG laser beam but also to applied magnetic field. Higher energy gain in GeV range is seen with higher mode indices in the presence of applied magnetic field. The obtained results with distinct TEM modes would be helpful in the development of better table top accelerators of diverse needs.
A Transformative Journey: Making A Tempest in Postcolonial India
Authors: Nilu Kamaluddin
Published: April 2018

This article is based on the author's production of Aimé Césaire's A Tempest in India. Guided by the concept of transculturation, a key concern of Kamaluddin Nilu in the working process was to develop positions that could be considered parallel to those of Césaire. The topographical condition of present-day India is interpreted as ‘internal colonialism’, locked in differences within, and presented through a double-framed vision. The parallel to ‘black subjectivity’ was found to be the Dalits, who suffer from systematic discrimination and are segregated from the main social body. Further, when adjusting the text to ‘India's world’, the notion of a ‘third space’, benefiting from the performance matrix of the traditional ritualistic performance Ram Lila as well as a heterotopian space concept, was crucial. The intention to make a theatre production that could give the audience an opportunity to engage in a political debate on the hierarchical nature of Indian society was fulfilled. Breaking the established postcolonial political myth meant that the audience was faced with the unexpected. In such cases an indirect or parabolic performance mode of communication rather than a synergetic one becomes likely. Kamaluddin Nilu is an independent theatre director and researcher affiliated with the Centre for Ibsen Studies, University of Oslo. He is currently a Research Fellow at the International Research Centre ‘Interweaving Performance Cultures’ at the Freie University, Berlin. He was Chair Professor of the Theatre Department at Hyderabad University in India, and Artistic Director of the Centre for Asian Theatre (CAT) in Dhaka.
Prehospital Blood Product Administration Opportunities in Ground Transport ALS EMS – A Descriptive Study
Authors: Mix Felicia M. , Zielinski Martin D. , Myers Lucas A. , Berns Kathy S. , Luke Anurahda , Stubbs James R. , Zietlow Scott P. , Jenkins Donald H. , Sztajnkrycer Matthew D.
Published: April 2018

Introduction

Hemorrhage remains the major cause of preventable death after trauma. Recent data suggest that earlier blood product administration may improve outcomes. The purpose of this study was to determine whether opportunities exist for blood product transfusion by ground Emergency Medical Services (EMS).

Methods

This was a single EMS agency retrospective study of ground and helicopter responses from January 1, 2011 through December 31, 2015 for adult trauma patients transported from the scene of injury who met predetermined hemodynamic (HD) parameters for potential transfusion (heart rate [HR]≥120 and/or systolic blood pressure [SBP]≤90).

Results

A total of 7,900 scene trauma ground transports occurred during the study period. Of 420 patients meeting HD criteria for transfusion, 53 (12.6%) had a significant mechanism of injury (MOI). Outcome data were available for 51 patients; 17 received blood products during their emergency department (ED) resuscitation. The percentage of patients receiving blood products based upon HD criteria ranged from 1.0% (HR) to 5.9% (SBP) to 38.1% (HR+SBP). In all, 74 Helicopter EMS (HEMS) transports met HD criteria for blood transfusion, of which, 28 patients received prehospital blood transfusion. Statistically significant total patient care time differences were noted for both the HR and the SBP cohorts, with HEMS having longer time intervals; no statistically significant difference in mean total patient care time was noted in the HR+SBP cohort.

Conclusions

In this study population, HD parameters alone did not predict need for ED blood product administration. Despite longer transport times, only one-third of HEMS patients meeting HD criteria for blood administration received prehospital transfusion. While one-third of ground Advanced Life Support (ALS) transport patients manifesting HD compromise received blood products in the ED, this represented 0.2% of total trauma transports over the study period. Given complex logistical issues involved in prehospital blood product administration, opportunities for ground administration appear limited within the described system.

MixFM, ZielinskiMD, MyersLA, BernsKS, LukeA, StubbsJR, ZietlowSP, JenkinsDH, SztajnkrycerMD. Prehospital blood product administration opportunities in ground transport ALS EMS – a descriptive study. Prehosp Disaster Med. 2018;33(3):230–236.
Needle Thoracostomy: Does Changing Needle Length and Location Change Patient Outcome?
Authors: Weichenthal Lori A. , Owen Scott , Stroh Geoffory , Ramos John
Published: April 2018

Background

Needle thoracostomy (NT) is a common prehospital intervention for patients in extremis or cardiac arrest due to trauma. The purpose of this study is to compare outcomes, efficacy, and complications after a change in policy related to NT in a four-county Emergency Medical Services (EMS) system with a catchment area of greater than 1.6 million people.

Methods

This is a before and after observational study of all patients who had NT performed in the Central California (USA) EMS system. The before, anterior midclavicular line (MCL) group consisted of all patients who underwent NT from May 7, 2007 through February 28, 2013. The after, midaxillary line (MAL) axillary group consisted of all patients who underwent NT from March 1, 2013 through January 30, 2016, after policy revisions changed the timing, needle size, and placement location for NT. All prehospital and hospital records where NT was performed were queried for demographics, mechanism of injury, initial status and post-NT clinical change, reported complications, and final outcome. The trauma registry was accessed to obtain Injury Severity Scores (ISS). Information was manually abstracted by study investigators and examined utilizing univariate and multivariate analyses.

Results

Three-hundred and five trauma patients treated with NT were included in this study, of which, 169 patients (the MCL group) were treated with a 14-guage intravenous (IV) catheter at least 5.0-cm long at the second intercostal space (ICS), MCL after being placed in the ambulance; and 136 patients (the MAL group) were treated with a 10-guage IV catheter at least 9.5-cm long at the fifth ICS, MAL on scene. The mean ISS was lower in the MAL cohort (64.5 versus 69.2; P=.007). The mortality rate was 79% in both groups. The multivariate model with regard to survival supported that a lower ISS (P<.001) and reported clinical change after NT (P=.003) were significant indicators of survival. No complications from NT were reported.

Conclusions

Changing the timing, length of needle, and location of placement did not change mortality in patients requiring NT. Needle thoracostomy was used more frequently after the change in policy, and the MAL cohort was less injured. No increase in reported complications was noted.

WeichenthalLA, OwenS, StrohG, RamosJ. Needle thoracostomy: does changing needle length and location change patient outcome?Prehosp Disaster Med. 2018;33(3):237–244.
Does a modified mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) course have the potential to reduce stress and burnout in NHS GPs? Feasibility study
Authors: Hamilton-West Kate , Pellatt-Higgins Tracy , Pillai Neil
Published: April 2018

Aim

To explore, for the first time, whether a modified mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) course has the potential to reduce stress and burnout among National Health Service (NHS) General Practitioners.

Background

There is a crisis of low morale among NHS GPs, with most describing their workload as ‘unmanageable’. MBCT has been demonstrated to improve stress and burnout in other populations, but has not yet been evaluated in a cohort of NHS GPs.

Methods

NHS GPs in South East England (n=22) attended a modified version of the MBCT course approved by National Institute for Health and Care Excellence for prevention of depressive relapse. This comprised eight weekly 2-h sessions with homework (mindfulness practice) between sessions. Participants completed the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) and Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) before (baseline) and then again one month (T2) and three months (T3) after attending the course. We also obtained qualitative data on participants’ experiences of the course.

Findings

Compliance with the intervention was very high. All GPs attended at least six sessions and all completed baseline questionnaires. At T2, data were obtained from 21 participants (95%); PSS scores were significantly lower than at baseline (P<0.001), as were MBI emotional exhaustion (P<0.001) and depersonalization scores (P=0.0421). At T3 we obtained data for 13 participants (59%); PSS scores and MBI emotional exhaustion scores were significantly lower (P<0.001; P=0.0024, respectively) and personal accomplishment scores were significantly higher (P<0.001) than at baseline. Participants reported that the course helped them to manage work pressures, feel more relaxed, enjoy their work and experience greater empathy and compassion (for self, colleagues and patients). Findings of this preliminary evaluation are promising. Further research is needed to evaluate this approach within a larger randomized-controlled trial.
Machine Learning Predictions of a Multiresolution Climate Model Ensemble
Authors: Anderson Gemma J. , Lucas Donald D.
Published: April 2018

Statistical models of high‐resolution climate models are useful for many purposes, including sensitivity and uncertainty analyses, but building them can be computationally prohibitive. We generated a unique multiresolution perturbed parameter ensemble of a global climate model. We use a novel application of a machine learning technique known as random forests to train a statistical model on the ensemble to make high‐resolution model predictions of two important quantities: global mean top‐of‐atmosphere energy flux and precipitation. The random forests leverage cheaper low‐resolution simulations, greatly reducing the number of high‐resolution simulations required to train the statistical model. We demonstrate that high‐resolution predictions of these quantities can be obtained by training on an ensemble that includes only a small number of high‐resolution simulations. We also find that global annually averaged precipitation is more sensitive to resolution changes than to any of the model parameters considered.