bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
BUSINESS CYCLES AND ADMISSIONS TO SUBSTANCE ABUSE TREATMENT
Authors: Maclean Johanna Catherine , Horn Brady P. , Cantor Jonathan H.
Published: July 2019

We study the effect of business cycles on admissions to specialty substance abuse treatment using administrative data between 1992 and 2015. We proxy business cycles with the state unemployment rate and apply a panel fixed‐effects model. While previous economic research has shown that substance abuse is counter‐cyclical, we observe no change in the total number of admissions across the business cycle. However, focusing on average effects misses important heterogeneity. In substance‐specific regressions we find statistically significant evidence that heroin‐related admissions are counter‐cyclical while stimulant‐related admissions are procyclical. Our findings add to the literature on business cycles and health. (JEL I1, J2)
Evaluating stakeholder‐derived strategies to reduce the risk of ships striking whales
Authors: Redfern Jessica V. , Moore Thomas J. , Becker Elizabeth A. , Calambokidis John , Hastings Sean P. , Irvine Ladd M. , Mate Bruce R. , Palacios Daniel M.
Published: July 2019

Aim

Ship strikes are one of the largest sources of human‐caused mortality for baleen whales on the West Coast of the United States. Reducing ship‐strike risk in this region is complicated by changes in ship traffic that resulted from air pollution regulations and economic factors. A diverse group of stakeholders was convened to develop strategies to reduce ship‐strike risk in the Southern California Bight. Strategies proposed by some stakeholders included: (a) adding a shipping route; (b) expanding the existing area to be avoided (ATBA); and (c) reducing ship speeds.

Location

Southern California Bight, off the coast of California, United States.

Methods

We developed methods to estimate ship traffic in the stakeholder‐derived strategies using 8 years of ship traffic data. To assess ship‐strike risk for fin, humpback, and blue whales, we used habitat models developed from 7 years of survey data and home ranges derived from 53 blue whale tags. We defined collision risk as the co‐occurrence between whales and ships. The risk of a lethal collision was calculated by multiplying collision risk by the probability that a collision is lethal, which is estimated using ship speed.

Results

Speed reductions resulted in a large decrease in the risk of a lethal ship strike. Creating a shipping route or expanding the ATBA reduced the risk of a strike by removing traffic from a whale feeding area. Creating a shipping route was opposed by the United States Navy and the shipping industry, but expanding the ATBA was broadly supported.

Main conclusions

Our analyses suggest that speed reductions and expanding the ATBA may provide an optimal solution for addressing stakeholder needs and reducing ship strikes in the Southern California Bight. The methods we developed can be used to address the global issue of balancing human use of the marine environment with the protection of whale populations.
A pilot randomized controlled trial of a gratitude intervention for adolescents with Type 1 diabetes
Authors: Schache K. R. , Hofman P. L. , Serlachius A. S.
Published: July 2019

Aim

Cost‐effective psychosocial interventions that can feasibly be implemented into busy clinical settings are needed to improve psychological and physical health outcomes in adolescents with Type 1 diabetes. We examined the efficacy of a gratitude journalling intervention to improve psychological well‐being and glycaemic control in adolescents aged 10–16 years with Type 1 diabetes.

Methods

Eighty adolescents were randomized to the 8‐week gratitude intervention (N = 40) or standard care (N = 40). Self‐reported measures of stress, quality of life, self‐care, depression and gratitude were assessed at baseline and 8 weeks after baseline. Glycaemic control (HbA1c) was assessed at baseline and 12 weeks after baseline. A per‐protocol analysis was conducted with the adolescents who completed all questionnaires (N = 60). Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was used to examine differences between treatment arms at follow‐up adjusting for baseline scores.

Results

There was no evidence of any between‐group differences in the psychological or behavioural measures at follow‐up (all P‐values > 0.05). Glycaemic control slightly increased in the control group while remaining stable in the gratitude group, with a between‐group difference of 6.1 mmol/mol [95% confidence interval (CI) −2.6 to 14.7; 0.6%, 95% CI −0.2 to 1.3] at 12 weeks after baseline. After adjusting for baseline HbA1c, this between‐group difference was significant (P = 0.048).

Conclusions

This is the first randomized trial of a gratitude journalling intervention for adolescents with Type 1 diabetes. Gratitude journalling interventions represent a clinically usable approach. If and how it helps to stabilise glycaemic control in adolescents with Type 1 diabetes remains to be confirmed in future research.
Risk of bleeding and thrombosis in inherited qualitative fibrinogen disorders
Authors: Castaman Giancarlo , Giacomelli Sofia H. , Biasoli Chiara , Contino Laura , Radossi Paolo
Published: July 2019

Objectives

Inherited dysfibrinogenemia is a rare disorder, for which clinical studies related to the risk of bleeding or thrombosis and the type of causative mutation are scanty.

Materials and Methods

We analyzed the laboratory, clinical, and genotypic features of 50 patients with inherited dysfibrinogenemia belonging to 19 unrelated families.

Results

In all the index cases, fibrinogen activity by Clauss method was below the normal range, while it was observed in 57.9% only by PT‐derived method. In three families, hypodysfibrinogenemia was evident, associated with three novel mutations (Ter492Gln in FGB, Cys365Asp, and Leu370Phe in FGG). Three additional novel mutations were also identified (Arg114Lys in FGA, Ile131Thr and Trp234Arg in FGG). Bleeding symptoms assessed by ISTH‐BAT scored at least 1 in 30% of patients and, significant bleeding symptoms were mainly present in female patients, especially associated with pregnancy. Two patients with FGB Arg44Cys suffered from venous thromboembolism, and two with FGA Arg35His had ischemic stroke at older age.

Conclusions

This study confirms the heterogeneity of clinical features in inherited dysfibrinogenemia, due to the wide spectrum of the causative mutations. Larger multicenter studies are needed to assess the definitive correlation of some mutations with bleeding or thrombosis.
Adsorption process of polar and nonpolar compounds in a nanopore model of humic substances
Authors: Tunega Daniel , Gerzabek Martin H. , Haberhauer Georg , Lischka Hans , Solc Roland , Aquino Adelia J. A.
Published: July 2019

Humic substances (HSs) as a major part of soil organic matter (SOM) are complex combinations of natural organic matter, which are ubiquitous in the environment and occur predominantly in soils, residues and natural water. They play a crucial role in the fate and behaviour of contaminants in the environment. In this work, an HS nanopore model was based on a structural motif containing polar and nonpolar domains. The polar domain was represented by the carboxyl groups that predominate in the composition of HSs, whereas the nonpolar domain was constructed by aliphatic chains. The effect of hydrophobic/hydrophilic interactions on sorption in HSs was analysed by the inclusion of the nonpolar polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon naphthalene and the polar herbicide 2‐methyl‐4‐chlorophenoxyacetic acid (MCPA) in the nanopore. Water cluster was also included to allow the formation of the water molecular bridges (WaMB), which stabilized the whole system. Thermodynamic potential‐of‐mean‐force (PMF) calculations by means of classical molecular dynamics simulations were performed to investigate the effect of polar and nonpolar domains in the adsorption mechanism. The polar MCPA molecule was stabilized at the hydrophilic water–HS interface, whereas nonpolar naphthalene was stabilized inside of the hydrophobic nanovoid of the HS nanopore model. The obtained results demonstrated that the adsorption strength of HSs regarding polar and nonpolar species is similar, but the adsorption mechanisms differ.

Highlights

The work elucidates the adsorption mechanism of polar and nonpolar species in SOM at the molecular scale.

The derived HS model was suitable to describe and explain the adsorption properties of SOM by means of constrained molecular dynamics simulations.

Adsorption mechanisms for polar and nonpolar species in SOM differ. Polar molecules prefer the water–SOM interface, whereas nonpolar molecules are trapped in hydrophobic nanovoids of SOM.

Molecular dynamics simulation is an effective method providing a detailed description of the adsorption processes in SOM.
Sensory Processing Sensitivity and the Subjective Experience of Parenting: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Aron Elaine N. , Aron Arthur , Nardone Natalie , Zhou Shelly
Published: July 2019

Objective

To explore the relationship between sensory processing sensitivity (SPS) and parental subjective experience (PSE).

Background

SPS is a temperament trait characterized by greater sensitivity to environmental and social stimuli; no previous research has examined the relation of SPS to PSE (e.g., how much parents feel parenting is difficult or feel connected to their child).

Method

In the first of two online studies, mothers were unaware of the study's relation to SPS (N = 92). In the second, mothers (n = 802) and fathers (n = 65) were recruited through an SPS‐related website. SPS was assessed by the short version of the Highly Sensitive Person Scale; PSE by 27 items with three components—Parenting Difficulties, Good Coparenting Relationship, and Attunement to Child.

Results

Controlling or not for external stressors, negative affectivity, children's age, and socioeconomic status, high‐SPS mothers in both studies scored meaningfully higher on Parenting Difficulties and Attunement to Child; high‐SPS fathers scored higher on Attunement to Child. SPS had little association with Coparenting Relationship.

Conclusion

Parents high in SPS report more attunement with child, although mothers found parenting more difficult.

Implications

This information could aid family researchers, particularly by considering the role of adult temperament. It also suggests that interventions focused on high‐SPS parents could improve their parenting experience and hence perhaps enhance child development. Thus, this research and what may follow from it could advance both theory and practice.
Reliability analysis of metal‐composite adhesive joints under debonding modes I, II, and I/II using the results of experimental and FEM analyses
Authors: Delbariani‐Nejad A. , Malakouti M. , Farrokhabadi A.
Published: July 2019

In the present study, the experimental and finite element (FE) analyses are first carried out to investigate the deboning behavior of metal‐composite adhesive joints under modes of I and mode II loading. To conduct an FE on the debonding propagation, cohesive zone method (CZM), as well as maximum nominal stress and energy criteria, is applied. In the reliability analysis, to achieve the probability of debonding growth (PODG), limit state functions are formulated based on the energy release rate. To that end, the first‐order reliability method (FORM), the second‐order reliability method (SORM), and the Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) are used to calculate the PODG. The effect of initial debonding length on the PODG in all mentioned modes is investigated. Results obtained from reliability analysis reveal that the random variables including the initial debonding length, width, and thickness are the most sensitive variables to ascertain the PODG.
Dynamic finite element modeling and fatigue damage analysis of thermite welds
Authors: Liu Z. , Shi X. , Tsang K.S. , Hoh H.J. , Pang J.H.L.
Published: July 2019

Railway track comprises of continuous welded rail mounted with rail clips on sleepers integrated to a ballast track form system. Modeling the rail structure with thermite weld subjected to the complex dynamic loadings is a challenging problem. Fatigue failures at the head‐to‐web, web‐to‐foot, and foot regions of weld collar are investigated. In this paper, a combined method of multibody system dynamic analysis and dynamic finite element analysis was used. A train roll‐in experiment was conducted at a train depot test track to validate modeling results predicted at the strain gauge location. Three critical plane‐based multiaxial fatigue criterions incorporated with a smallest enclosing circle algorithm were implemented in Python code to study the fatigue behavior at weld collar. Parametric studies were also conducted to investigate the effects of track component materials, track curvature, and train velocity. This approach provides a method for predicting the failures of thermite welded joints in railway tracks.
A triage framework for managing novel, hybrid, and designed marine ecosystems
Authors: Schläppy Marie‐Lise , Hobbs Richard J.
Published: July 2019

The novel ecosystem (NE) concept has been discussed in terrestrial restoration ecology over the last 15 years but has not yet found much traction in the marine context. Against a background of unprecedented environmental change, managers of natural marine resources have portfolios full of altered systems for which restoration to a previous historical baseline may be impractical for ecological, social, or financial reasons. In these cases, the NE concept is useful for weighing options and emphasizes the risk of doing nothing by forcing questions regarding the value of novelty and how it can best be managed in the marine realm. Here, we explore how the concept fits marine ecosystems. We propose a scheme regarding how the NE concept could be used as a triage framework for use in marine environments within the context of a decision framework that explicitly considers changed ecosystems and whether restoration is the best or only option. We propose a conceptual diagram to show where marine NEs fit in the continuum of unaltered to shifted marine ecosystems. Overall, we suggest that the NE concept is of interest to marine ecologists and resource managers because it introduces a new vocabulary for considering marine systems that have been changed through human actions but have not shifted to an alternate stable state. Although it remains to be seen whether the concept of marine NEs leads to better conservation and restoration decisions, we posit that the concept may help inform management decisions in an era of unprecedented global marine change.
Anthropogenic N deposition alters soil organic matter biochemistry and microbial communities on decaying fine roots
Authors: Argiroff William A. , Zak Donald R. , Upchurch Rima A. , Salley Sydney O. , Grandy A. Stuart
Published: July 2019

Fine root litter is a primary source of soil organic matter (SOM), which is a globally important pool of C that is responsive to climate change. We previously established that ~20 years of experimental nitrogen (N) deposition has slowed fine root decay and increased the storage of soil carbon (C; +18%) across a widespread northern hardwood forest ecosystem. However, the microbial mechanisms that have directly slowed fine root decay are unknown. Here, we show that experimental N deposition has decreased the relative abundance of Agaricales fungi (−31%) and increased that of partially ligninolytic Actinobacteria (+24%) on decaying fine roots. Moreover, experimental N deposition has increased the relative abundance of lignin‐derived compounds residing in SOM (+53%), and this biochemical response is significantly related to shifts in both fungal and bacterial community composition. Specifically, the accumulation of lignin‐derived compounds in SOM is negatively related to the relative abundance of ligninolytic Mycena and Kuehneromyces fungi, and positively related to Microbacteriaceae. Our findings suggest that by altering the composition of microbial communities on decaying fine roots such that their capacity for lignin degradation is reduced, experimental N deposition has slowed fine root litter decay, and increased the contribution of lignin‐derived compounds from fine roots to SOM. The microbial responses we observed may explain widespread findings that anthropogenic N deposition increases soil C storage in terrestrial ecosystems. More broadly, our findings directly link composition to function in soil microbial communities, and implicate compositional shifts in mediating biogeochemical processes of global significance.
Whole hepatic lipid volume quantification and color mapping by multi‐slice and multi‐point magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Igarashi Hiroyuki , Shigiyama Fumika , Wakui Noritaka , Nagai Hidenari , Shibuya Kazutoshi , Shiraga Nobuyuki , Hirose Takahisa , Kumashiro Naoki
Published: July 2019

Aim

Current approaches for hepatic steatosis assess only a small point within the liver and might cause inaccuracy for longitudinal observation. We aimed to establish a reliable non‐invasive method for whole hepatic lipid content evaluation.

Methods

A total of 52 patients with hepatic steatosis underwent liver biopsy. Hepatic lipid content was assessed by Dixon in‐phase/out‐of‐phase magnetic resonance imaging and proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Using multi‐slice and multi‐point magnetic resonance imaging, we calculated the lipid intensity of every voxel throughout the liver and showed the color‐mapped lipid distributions. This new analysis could also quantify the whole hepatic lipid and whole liver volumes absolutely. The diagnostic performance of hepatic lipid content between the new analysis and proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy methods was compared by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis referring to the steatosis scores of the liver biopsy.

Results

Areas under the receiver operating characteristic for the diagnosis of steatosis scores ≥1, ≥2, and ≥3 using magnetic resonance imaging and proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy were 0.86 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.70–1.00) and 0.98 (95% CI 0.93–1.00), 0.94 (95% CI 0.87–1.00) and 0.93 (95% CI 0.86–1.00), and 0.95 (95% CI 0.89–1.00) and 0.97 (95% CI 0.93–1.00), respectively, showing comparable diagnostic accuracies. However, color mapping showed some inconsistencies between the methods.

Conclusions

We described a non‐invasive and repeatable evaluation method of whole hepatic lipid accumulation with absolute quantification and color mapping. Hepatic steatosis was accurately evaluated regardless of heterogeneous lipid accumulation. The whole hepatic lean volume, reflecting the hepatic parenchymal condition, can also be determined by this method.
Characterisation of starch quality from barley varieties grown in South Africa
Authors: Balet Sandra , Gous Peter , Fox Glen , Lloyd James , Manley Marena
Published: July 2019

Starch is a major determinant of grain quality in cereals but the variation in starch structure has yet to be fully explored in its relation to processing impacts. This study examined the starch properties of South African grown malting barley varieties. Starch amounts, amylose content, covalently bound phosphate, starch granule size, starch molecular structure and pasting properties were examined. There was no difference in amylose content but there was variation in the amylose chain length distribution, despite all barleys showing similar granule parameters. The longer amylose chain length resulted in increased pasting temperature. There was no difference in phosphate content for these samples. Starch properties for the brewing industry are important in the context of the production of fermentable sugars. The variation in starch structure was not observed when measuring content and could impact on fermentation efficiency through variation in fermentable sugars hydrolysed from the starch.
Factors associated with diabetic polyneuropathy‐related sensory symptoms and signs in patients with polyneuropathy: A cross‐sectional Japanese study (JDDM 52) using a non‐linear model
Authors: Yokoyama Hiroki , Tsuji Toshinaga , Hayashi Shinji , Kabata Daijiro , Shintani Ayumi
Published: July 2019

Aims/Introduction

To assess the prevalence of diabetic polyneuropathy (DPN)‐related sensory symptoms/signs and associated factors in patients with polyneuropathy, considering non‐linear effects for numerical variables.

Materials and Methods

A cross‐sectional survey of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus from 17 primary care clinics across Japan was carried out. DPN and DPN‐related sensory symptoms/signs were diagnosed according to the Diabetic Neuropathy Study Group in Japan criteria.

Results

Of the 9,914 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in this study, 2,745 had DPN and 1,689 had DPN‐related sensory symptoms/signs (61.5% of patients with DPN). There were significant correlations between DPN‐related sensory symptoms/signs and smoking status (odds ratio 2.04 for current and 1.64 for former; P < 0.001 and P = 0.002, respectively), sex (odds ratio 0.56 for male/female; P < 0.001) and alcohol consumption (odds ratio 2.02 for former/never; P = 0.004). Based on the non‐linear logistic regression model, significant correlations were observed between the presence of DPN‐related sensory symptoms/signs and higher systolic blood pressure (SBP), longer diabetes duration, and decreasing age. The logarithm of odds for SBP increased until reaching approximately 130 mmHg, then it plateaued.

Conclusions

Some modifiable factors assessed in the large survey database might be associated with DPN‐related sensory symptoms/signs, namely smoking, alcohol consumption and SBP. Maintaining SBP <130 mmHg was associated with lower odds of DPN‐related sensory symptoms/signs in patients with DPN.
Pedagogical Considerations for Examining Rater Variability in Rater‐Mediated Assessments: A Three‐Model Framework
Authors: Wesolowski Brian C. , Wind Stefanie A.
Published: July 2019

Rater‐mediated assessments are a common methodology for measuring persons, investigating rater behavior, and/or defining latent constructs. The purpose of this article is to provide a pedagogical framework for examining rater variability in the context of rater‐mediated assessments using three distinct models. The first model is the observation model, which includes ecological/environmental considerations for the evaluation system. The second model is the measurement model, which includes the transformation of observed, rater response data to linear measures using a measurement model with specific requirements of rater‐invariant measurement in order to examine raters’ construct‐relevant variability stemming from the evaluative system. The third model is the interaction model, which includes an interaction parameter to allow for the investigation into raters’ systematic, construct‐irrelevant variability stemming from the evaluative system. Implications for measurement outcomes and validity are discussed.
Modeling Rater Response Processes in Evaluating Score Meaning
Authors: Lane Suzanne
Published: July 2019

Rater‐mediated assessments require the evaluation of the accuracy and consistency of the inferences made by the raters to ensure the validity of score interpretations and uses. Modeling rater response processes allows for a better understanding of how raters map their representations of the examinee performance to their representation of the scoring criteria. Validity of score meaning is affected by the accuracy of raters' representations of examinee performance and the scoring criteria, and the accuracy of the mapping process. Methodological advances and applications that model rater response processes, rater accuracy, and rater consistency inform the design, scoring, interpretations, and uses of rater‐mediated assessments.
Surfacing Family Privilege and Supremacy in Family Science: Toward Justice for All
Authors: Letiecq Bethany L.
Published: July 2019

In family science, a great deal of scholarly work has focused on marginalized and disadvantaged families with stated goals of improving family outcomes and well‐being. Yet little attention has been paid to family privilege and the ways in which the advantages of privileged families are maintained within a White heteronormative hegemonic society to the continued disadvantage of others. In this article, I define family privilege and consider how it intersects with other privileges (e.g., White privilege) to maintain the supremacy of the Standard North American Family. I theorize how family privilege is masked yet perpetuated and instantiated in the field of family science. I conclude with a discussion of approaches that family scientists can employ to surface and redress family privilege in the self, family privilege in family theories and methods, and the mechanisms that perpetuate family privilege and the maintenance of advantage. This work is critical to advancing family equality and social justice.
Association of multiple patient and disease characteristics with the presence and type of pain in chronic pancreatitis
Authors: Olesen Søren S , Kuhlmann Louise , Novovic Srdan , Nøjgaard Camilla , Kalaitzakis Evangelos , Jensen Nanna M , Engjom Trond , Dimcevski Georg , Waage Anne , Haas Stephan L , Vujasinovic Miroslav , Riauka Romualdas , Pukitis Aldis , Ozola‐Zālīte Imanta , Okhlobystin Alexey , Parhiala Mikael , Laukkarinen Johanna , Drewes Asbjørn M ,   for the Scandinavian Baltic Pancreatic Club
Published: July 2019

Background and Aim

Pain is the primary symptom of chronic pancreatitis (CP) and associates with a number of patient and disease characteristics. However, the complex interrelations of these parameters are incompletely understood, and pain treatment remains unsatisfactory in a large proportion of patients. The aim of this study is to investigate multiple pain risk factors in a large population of CP patients, with a special emphasis on patients' patterns of smoking and alcohol use.

Methods

This was a multicenter, cross‐sectional study including 1384 patients with CP. Patient demographics and disease characteristics, as well as current patterns of smoking and alcohol use, were compared for patients with pain (n = 801) versus without pain (n = 583). Multivariate logistic regression models were performed to assess the variables associated with the presence and type of pain (constant vs intermittent pain).

Results

The mean age of participants was 52.1 ± 14.6 years, and 914 (66%) were men. Active smoking (odds ratio 1.6 [95% confidence interval 1.1–2.2], P = 0.005) and alcohol consumption (odds ratio 1.8 [95% confidence interval 1.1–3.0], P = 0.03) were independently associated with the presence of pain. In addition, patients' age at diagnosis, pancreatic duct pathology, and the presence of pseudocysts, duodenal stenosis, and exocrine pancreatic insufficiency were confirmed as pain risk factors (all P ≤ 0.01). Constant pain, as opposed to intermittent pain, was more frequently reported by smokers (P = 0.03), while alcohol consumption was associated with intermittent pain (P = 0.006).

Conclusion

Multiple patient and disease characteristics, including patterns of smoking and alcohol consumption, associate with the presence and type of pain in patients with CP.
Heterogeneity in age at death for adults with developmental disability
Authors: Landes S. D. , Stevens J. D. , Turk M. A.
Published: July 2019

Background

Although increased attention has been devoted to mortality trends for adults with developmental disability, research has not accounted for possible differences in age at death between disability types. We examine whether heterogeneity is present in age at death between adults with different types of developmental disability.

Methods

Data were from the 2012–2016 U.S. Multiple Cause‐of‐Death Mortality files. Mean age at death and age at death distributions were analysed for adults, aged 18–126, with and without developmental disability collectively and then stratified by biological sex.

Results

There were 33 154 decedents with and 13 026 759 without developmental disability. Compared with adults without developmental disability, age at death was lower for all decedents with developmental disability but varied markedly by disability type and biological sex. Among adults with developmental disability, those with intellectual disability had the highest age at death, and those with cerebral palsy or other rare developmental disabilities, especially if co‐morbid for a second developmental disability, had the lowest age at death.

Conclusion

Research on age at death for adults with developmental disability must account for heterogeneity among disability types in order to ensure reliable estimates. Failure to do so conceals important differences between disability types, which can misguide public health and preventive care efforts to reduce premature mortality and/or provide aging‐related supports.
Short‐term health outcomes of newborn infants of substance‐using mothers in Australia and New Zealand: A systematic review
Authors: Oni Helen T. , Khan Md Nuruzzaman , Abdel‐Latif Mohamed , Buultjens Melissa , Islam M Mofizul
Published: July 2019

Aim

Substance use is not unusual among women of childbearing age. Pregnant women who use a substance and the consequent impacts on a newborn vary across studies and settings. We reviewed New Zealand and Australian literature to examine the short‐term health outcomes of newborn of substance‐using mothers and their demographic characteristics.

Methods

Five medical/nursing databases and google scholar were searched in April 2017. Studies were considered eligible if they described outcomes of newborn of substance‐using mothers. Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool was used for quality assessment of candidate studies. Relevant data were extracted and analyzed using narrative synthesis. Based on data availability, a subset of studies was included in meta‐analysis.

Results

Although findings of individual studies vary, there are some evidence that the infants born to substance‐using mothers were likely to have preterm birth, low birthweight, small‐for‐gestational age, low Apgar score, and admission to neo‐natal intensive care unit. The likelihood of adverse health outcomes was much higher for newborns of polysubstance‐using mothers, than newborns of mothers using a single substance. Pregnant women who use illicit substance are predominantly socially disadvantaged, in their twenties and or of Aboriginal descent.

Conclusion

Infants of substance‐using mothers suffer a range of adverse health outcomes. Multidisciplinary and integrated approach of services that ensure supportive social determinants of health may result in a better outcome for newborn and positive behavioral change among mothers.
The Geography of Lender Behavior in Peer‐to‐Peer Loan Markets
Authors: Senney Garrett T.
Published: July 2019

This paper empirically investigates the role of geography in online peer‐to‐peer loan markets. Using transaction level data, I find strong evidence that lenders are more informed about local projects and have higher demand for better performing local projects. This effect is shown to be driven by informational frictions. Additionally, listings with more early local bidding attract more lenders, leading to a higher probability of funding and a lower final interest rate, if funded. My results are consistent with localness embodying some incidentally obtained initial informational advantage which rationally causes persistent information asymmetries.
Glucose and Nitrogen Amendments Can Mitigate Wastewater‐Borne Bacteria Competition Effect Against Algal Growth in Wastewater‐Based Systems
Authors: Conceição Gabriele R. , Xavier Larissa M. B. D. , Matos Josilene B. T. L. , de Almeida Paulo F. , de Moura‐Costa Lilia F. , Chinalia Fábio Alexandre
Published: July 2019

The reuse of wastewater is important for reducing costs involved with algal lipid production. However, nutrient limitations, wastewater‐borne microbes, and mixotrophic growth can significantly affect biomass yields and lipid/biomass ratios. This research compared the growth performances of both Chlorella vulgaris and Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata on domestic wastewater effluent. The experiments were conducted in the presence and absence of wastewater‐borne bacteria, while additionally assessing the impact of distinct nitrate and glucose supplementations. When compared to the sterilized controls, the presence of wastewater‐borne bacteria in the effluent reduced C. vulgaris and P. subcapitata total biomass production by 37% and 46%, respectively. In the corresponding treatments supplemented with glucose and nitrate, total biomass production increased by 12% and 61%, respectively. The highest biomass production of 1.11 and 0.72 g · L−1 was, however, observed in the sterilized treatments with both glucose and nitrate supplementations for C. vulgaris and P. subcapitata, respectively. Lipid to biomass ratios were, on average, threefold higher when only nitrate was introduced in the sterilized treatments for both species (0.4 and 0.5, respectively). Therefore, the combination of nitrate and glucose supplementation is shown to be an important strategy for enhancing algal lipid and biomass production when those algae are grown in the presence of wastewater‐borne bacteria. On the other hand, in the absence of wastewater‐borne bacteria, only nitrate supplementation can significantly improve lipid/biomass ratios.
Acceleration of the identification of sepsis‐inducing bacteria in cultures of dog and cat blood
Authors: Ulrich S. , Gottschalk C. , Straubinger R. K. , Schwaiger K. , Dörfelt R.
Published: July 2019

Objectives

To evaluate matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionisation time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOF MS) combined with the Sepsityper kit (Bruker Daltoniks GmbH, Bremen) for the direct detection of bacterial species from inoculated blood cultures from dogs and cats.

Materials and Methods

Canine and feline blood samples were inoculated with typical sepsis‐causing bacteria such as Staphylococcus intermedius, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus canis, Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa at two distinct concentrations (each in triplicate), resulting in 72 blood culture bottles incubated at 37°C. Samples were comparatively analysed with MALDI‐TOF MS after preparation with the Sepsityper kit and also by standard bacteriology (culturing and biochemical characterisation).

Results

Bacterial species identified from agar plates and by MALDI‐TOF MS from blood culture bottles were identical for all samples. The MALDI Biotyper software (Bruker Daltoniks) correctly identified all bacterial strains from inoculated canine and feline blood with analysis indicating very good precision.

Clinical Significance

MALDI‐TOF MS analysis combined with the Sepsityper kit is a reliable tool for a quick detection of veterinary‐relevant bacterial species directly from blood culture bottles. This approach could reduce the time for identification of critical species to only 24 hours.
Construction materials affect the hydrological properties of bird nests
Authors: Biddle L. E. , Dickinson A. M. , Broughton R. E. , Gray L. A. , Bennett S. L. , Goodman A. M. , Deeming D. C.
Published: July 2019

Bird nests are highly variable structures that represent extended phenotypes, which may have a range of roles during avian reproduction, but all nests serve as the location for incubation of eggs. Nest characteristics should counter any adverse weather conditions that could potentially reduce hatchability or chick survival. Thermal properties of nests are relatively well studied, but the effects of moisture on nest insulation are largely unknown. Wet nests could reduce thermal insulation or deleteriously cool the eggs or nestlings. In this study, a novel method of simulated rainfall was applied to open‐cup nests from nineteen different passerine species. The amount of water absorbed by the nest and the time it took to dry were recorded. To determine the factors affecting these characteristics, nests were deconstructed to provide data on materials used. Compared with smaller nests, larger nests absorbed more water and took longer to dry. The amount of water absorbed was a function of the proportion of grass, moss, roots and hair present in the nest. The time taken for the nest to dry completely was affected by the proportion of grass, moss, and hair in the nest. When tested individually, the materials all had different rates of water absorption and took different times to dry; moss absorbed the most water and took the longest time to dry. We concluded that simulated rainfall was a realistic approach to understanding the hydrological characteristics of nests. Structural considerations for nest construction may affect the hydrological properties of nests, but ex situ studies provide no information about the possible shelter provided to a nest by its immediate surroundings. Further research into nest function should consider the importance of exposure to water to nest construction and function.
Robust martingale selection problem and its connections to the no‐arbitrage theory
Authors: Burzoni Matteo , Šikić Mario
Published: July 2019

We analyze the martingale selection problem of Rokhlin in a pointwise (robust) setting. We derive conditions for solvability of this problem and show how it is related to the classical no‐arbitrage deliberations. We obtain versions of the Fundamental Theorem of Asset Pricing in models spanning frictionless markets, models with proportional transaction costs, and models for illiquid markets. In all these models, we also incorporate trading constraints.
Dispersal limitation: Evolutionary origins and consequences in arthropods
Authors: Emerson Brent C. , Salces‐Castellano Antonia , Arribas Paula
Published: July 2019

Niche and dispersal ability are key traits for explaining the geographical structuring of species into discrete populations, and its evolutionary significance. Beyond their individual effects, the interplay between species niche and its geographic limits, together with the evolutionary lability of dispersal ability, can underpin trait diversification and speciation when exposed to gradients of selection. In this issue of Molecular Ecology, two complementary papers demonstrate how evolutionary lability for dispersal ability linked to niche shift can drive such a model in a context that includes selection. Both papers investigate the evolution of dispersal limitation in arthropods across altitudinal gradients, but using taxa with contrasting ecologies. McCulloch et al. (2019) investigate the evolution of wing loss at higher altitudes in stoneflies, a taxon inhabiting freshwater systems. Suzuki et al. (2019) report a similar phenomenon, but involving wing reduction at higher altitudes in scorpionflies, a taxon associated with moist terrestrial habitats. Here, we compare and contrast the results of both studies to explore their broader implications for understanding diversification and speciation within arthropods.
The ameliorating effects of Bushen Tiaoxue Granules and Kunling Wan on impaired angiogenesis and endometrial receptivity in rats following controlled ovarian hyperstimulation
Authors: Lv Bo‐Yang , Sun Hao‐Yu , Li Quan , Zhang Hao‐Lin , Pan Chun‐Shui , Yan Li , Fan Jing‐Yu , Li Dong , Han Jing‐Yan
Published: July 2019

Objective

To investigate the effects of Bushen Tiaoxue Granules and Kunling Wan, the two Chinese medicines, on vascular dysfunction and the impairment of endometrial receptivity caused by controlled ovarian hyperstimulation and its underlying mechanism.

Methods

Female Sprague Dawley rats with regular estrous cycle were enrolled and given Bushen Tiaoxue Granules or Kunling Wan by gavage for 12 days, and then, controlled ovarian hyperstimulation model was induced. We assessed endometrial microvessels, endometrial blood flow, levels of estradiol and progesterone in serum, vascular endothelial growth factor A upstream molecules estrogen and progesterone receptors in the endometrium, and pregnancy outcome.

Results

Pre‐treatment of Bushen Tiaoxue Granules or Kunling Wan increases endometrial blood flow of controlled ovarian hyperstimulation rats, up‐regulates vascular endothelial growth factor A and microvessels, improves the endometrial morphology of controlled ovarian hyperstimulation rats during implantation, decreases the super physiological concentration of estradiol and progesterone in serum, and increases the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor A upstream molecules estrogen and progesterone receptors in the endometrium. In addition, Bushen Tiaoxue Granules or Kunling Wan elevates the lysophosphatidic acid receptor 3 that participates in vascularization and increases the expression of leukemia inhibitory factor through up‐regulating the expression of p53 in the endometrium, ultimately affecting pregnancy outcome.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated Bushen Tiaoxue Granules or Kunling Wan as a potential strategy for prevention of impairment in angiogenesis and endometrial receptivity induced by controlled ovarian hyperstimulation.
Food for thought: Harbor porpoise foraging behavior and diet inform vulnerability to disturbance
Authors: Booth Cormac G.
Published: July 2019

Research has shown that noise disturbance can disrupt the behavior of harbor porpoises. The significance of such disturbance is unclear. However, these animals may be vulnerable to starvation when disturbed due to their high energy requirements. Important parameters determining harbor porpoise energy balance are the size and energy content of prey, their foraging behavior and their energetic requirements for homeostasis, growth, and reproduction. Energy intake can be estimated using published data from tagged animals. Such analysis indicates a broad range of plausible levels of energy intake, in line with those from captive studies. Metabolizable energy intake estimates were most strongly affected by variations in target prey size and to a lesser extent, by the foraging intensity of porpoises. In all but the worst case scenarios, harbor porpoises are well equipped for their ecological niche due to their generalist diet, consisting of a range of moderate to high energy‐density prey combined with ultra‐high foraging rates and high capture success. If animals can find suitable prey, porpoises may be capable of recovering from some lost foraging opportunities. Minimizing disturbances is, however, important for their health. Further research into prey and the environment are required to fully test the assumption of vulnerability.
Is Doppler echocardiography useful for estimating left ventricular filling pressures in pediatric heart transplant recipients?
Authors: Lunze Fatima I. , Narciso Ryan , Gauvreau Kimberlee , Blume Elizabeth D. , Colan Steven D. , Singh Tajinder P
Published: July 2019

LV E/E′ ratio obtained using Doppler echocardiography is considered a surrogate for LV filling pressure in adults but has performed poorly in children. We hypothesized that LV E/E′ ratio Z‐score, adjusted for age, will relate more strongly to LV filling pressures than LV E/E′ ratio in pediatric HT recipients. We analyzed 751 echocardiograms performed within 24 hours of a heart catheterization in 122 pediatric HT recipients (median age at HT 13 years, median 6 studies per patient). The primary end‐point was PCWP, assessed both as a continuous and a binary variable. Associations with LV E/E′ ratios and z‐scores were assessed using generalized estimating equations models. PCWP, LV E/E′ ratios (using E′ from LV free wall, septum, and their average), and LV E/E′ ratio Z‐scores, all declined over time after HT. LV E/E′ ratios and their Z‐scores were significantly associated with PCWP assessed as a continuous variable (P < 0.001 for all); however, the relationship was weak (R2 range, 0.083 to 0.121). LV E/E′ ratios and their Z‐scores were also significantly associated with PCWP as a binary variable (P < 0.001 for all) but with only modest ability to discriminate PCWP ≥15 mm Hg (c‐statistic range, 0.660 to 0.695). The association between LV E/E′ ratio and PCWP in pediatric HT recipients is modest. Using a LV E/E′ ratio Z‐score did not result in significantly improved association with PCWP. Current Doppler echocardiographic methods are unreliable for estimating LV filling pressures in pediatric HT recipients.
Quantitative Risk Assessment of Seafarers’ Nonfatal Injuries Due to Occupational Accidents Based on Bayesian Network Modeling
Authors: Zhang Guizhen , Thai Vinh V. , Law Adrian Wing‐Keung , Yuen Kum Fai , Loh Hui Shan , Zhou Qingji
Published: July 2019

Reducing the incidence of seafarers’ workplace injuries is of great importance to shipping and ship management companies. The objective of this study is to identify the important influencing factors and to build a quantitative model for the injury risk analysis aboard ships, so as to provide a decision support framework for effective injury prevention and management. Most of the previous research on seafarers’ occupational accidents either adopts a qualitative approach or applies simple descriptive statistics for analyses. In this study, the advanced method of a Bayesian network (BN) is used for the predictive modeling of seafarer injuries for its interpretative power as well as predictive capacity. The modeling is data driven and based on an extensive empirical survey to collect data on seafarers’ working practice and their injury records during the latest tour of duty, which could overcome the limitation of historical injury databases that mostly contain only data about the injured group instead of the entire population. Using the survey data, a BN model was developed consisting of nine major variables, including “PPE availability,” “Age,” and “Experience” of the seafarers, which were identified to be the most influential risk factors. The model was validated further with several tests through sensitivity analyses and logical axiom test. Finally, implementation of the result toward decision support for safety management in the global shipping industry was discussed.
eHealth tool for patients with abdominal aortic aneurysm: development and initial evaluation
Authors: Nilsson Olga , Hultgren Rebecka , Letterstål Anna
Published: July 2019

Rationale

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a prevalent condition among elderly men and may require surgical repair. Recent technical advances offer new opportunities to provide patients and next of kin with tailored and individualised information. eHealth tools have proven useful in other patient cohorts, but there are currently no validated educational eHealth tools for patients with AAA.

Aim

Our aim was to develop and evaluate an eHealth tool for patients with abdominal aortic aneurysm using a participatory design process.

Method

Patients, healthcare professionals and a technical team were involved in the development of the eHealth tool. The tool was assessed for content and usability through questionnaires, validated instruments and focus group interviews. Readability was assessed using Flesch Reading Ease Score (FRE) and Flesch–Kincaid Grade Level (FKGL). Interview data were analysed using thematic content analysis.

Results

Factual content and illustrations were accurate and in line with current information routine. Readability assessments produced a mean FRE score of 42.2 (±3,7) and mean FKGL of 10 (±1), implying that the eHealth tool may be difficult to comprehend for certain users. However, participants in the focus group interviews found the tool to be understandable, relevant and easy to use.

Conclusion

The developed eHealth tool is acceptable, understandable and usable for the potential end‐users. Further evaluation of the usability of the tool and effect on outcome in clinical care is warranted. This is the first educational eHealth tool for patients with AAA and has potential to contribute to improved communication and quality of care for AAA patients.