bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Resilience and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms in National Guard Soldiers Deployed to Iraq: A Prospective Study of Latent Class Trajectories and Their Predictors
Authors: Polusny Melissa A. , Erbes Christopher R. , Kramer Mark D. , Thuras Paul , DeGarmo Dave , Koffel Erin , Litz Brett , Arbisi Paul A.
Published: August 2017

This study examined the prospective course of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms in a cohort of National Guard soldiers (N= 522) deployed to combat operations in Iraq. Participants were assessed 4 times: 1 month before deployment, 2–3 months after returning from deployment, 1 year later, and 2 years postdeployment. Growth mixture modeling revealed 3 distinct trajectories: low‐stable symptoms, resilient, 76.4%; new‐onset symptoms, 14.2%; and chronic distress, 9.4%. Relative to the resilient class, membership in both the new‐onset symptoms and chronic distress trajectory classes was predicted by negative emotionality/neuroticism, odds ratios (ORs) = 1.09, 95% CI [1.02, 1.17], andOR= 1.22, 95% CI [1.09,1.35], respectively; and combat exposure,OR= 1.07, 95% CI [1.02, 1.12], andOR= 1.12, 95% CI [1.02, 1.24], respectively. Membership in the new‐onset trajectory class was predicted by predeployment military preparedness,OR= 0.95, 95% CI [0.91, 0.98], perceived threat during deployment,OR= 1.07, 95% CI [1.03, 1.10], and stressful life events following deployment,OR= 1.44, 95% CI [1.05, 1.96]. Prior deployment to Iraq or Afghanistan,OR= 3.85, 95% CI [1.72, 8.69], predeployment depression,OR= 1.27, 95% CI [1.20, 1.36], and predeployment concerns about a deployment's impact on civilian/family life,OR= 1.09, 95% CI [1.02, 1.16], distinguished the chronic distress group relative to the resilient group. Identifying predeployment vulnerability and postdeployment contextual factors provides insight for future efforts to bolster resilience, prevent, and treat posttraumatic symptoms.
Ptarmigan hunting restrictions: Effects on hunters’ opinions and harvest
Authors: Breisjøberget Jo Inge , Storaas Torstein , Odden Morten
Published: August 2017

In Norway, willow (Lagopus lagopus) and rock ptarmigan (Lagopus muta) populations and harvests have declined during the last few decades, and the 2 species are considered as near threatened on the Norwegian Red List. The Norwegian State‐Owned Land and Forest Enterprise (Statskog) is a main provider of ptarmigan hunting on public lands, and has recently introduced harvest restrictions in Nordland County. We investigated the relationship between hunters’ opinions and the effects of restrictions on hunters and ptarmigan harvest using online structured questionnaires (2012, n = 570) and bag reports (2009–2011, n = 8,795). A majority of hunters (66%) supported harvest restrictions, and 89% were willing to shoot fewer birds to increase population size. However, opinions towards specific management alternatives were more negative and disparate. Residency of the hunters (local or non‐resident) was the most influential factor on hunter opinions, and this reflected a tendency to approve of restrictions with the smallest effect on their own hunting practice. Our study indicates that access and the opportunity to hunt are more important to hunters than bag size. Daily and annual hunting bags were small, averaging 1.7 and 5.8 ptarmigan, respectively, and the daily bag limit of 4 birds was reached during 5.8% of hunting days. A harvest reduction of 50% implied a daily bag limit of 1 bird and a seasonal bag of 4, which were lower than what hunters found as acceptable. Hence, although hunter opinions may provide useful guidelines for the development of management practices, their opinions need to be evaluated for the actual effects they may have on the game populations. © 2017 The Authors. Journal of Wildlife Management Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Land Cover Trade‐offs in Small Oceanic Islands: A Temporal Analysis of Pico Island, Azores
Authors: Gil Artur , Fonseca Catarina , Benedicto‐Royuela José
Published: August 2017

Livestock production has been highly relevant in the Azores, boosted by European agricultural policies, increasing the demand for pasture and competing for space with other land uses. Therefore, it is important to understand the spatial evolution of pasture and related land use/land cover (LULC) trade‐offs. This study describes a geographical information systems‐based LULC change detection approach to identify, map and assess pasture‐related land use changes and respective trade‐offs in Pico Island in the period between 1998 and 2013 (15 years). Pasture in 1998 occupied a total area of 17,131 ha (about 39% of Pico Island surface), while in 2013, this same area was of 17,621 ha (about 40% of Pico Island surface). During this period, about 16,316 ha of pasture remained unchanged, while 2,110 ha (about 5% of Pico Island surface) of land use have changed from pasture to another land use (810 ha), or from a previous land use to pasture (1,300 ha). The whole pasture spatial dynamics and its net increase of 3% from 1998 to 2013 (490 ha, about 1% of Pico Island surface) were analysed through the identification, mapping and assessment of LULC trade‐offs and interpreted according to several physical (elevation) and socio‐economic/policy drivers. Pasture and livestock grazing activity with adequate management may not constitute per se threats to nature conservation and biodiversity protection in Pico Island, as the identified issues have been shown to be mostly related to the pasture dynamics (changes and respective trade‐offs). Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of Alfalfa on Aggregate Stability, Aggregate Preserved‐C and Nutrients in Region Mountain Agricultural Soils 1 Year After its Planting
Authors: Guidi Patrizia , Vittori Antisari Livia , Marè Boussa T. , Vianello Gilmo , Falsone Gloria
Published: August 2017

In mountain areas, water erosion plays an important role on soil structure and can strongly affect its functions. Suitable management practices, namely choice of crops, may be able to improve aggregate stability and reduce soil loss by surface runoff. To study the effects of cover crops on aggregation in mountain soils, we investigated a soil planted with wheat (site C) compared with two soils under alfalfa (sites A and B). All investigated soils were Typic Ustorthents. The soil aggregates were isolated by a physical‐functional procedure defined on the basis of aggregate resistance against specific breakdown mechanisms such as slaking and water abrasion. One year after alfalfa plantation, its effect on wet aggregate stability and the amount of organic carbon (OC) and nutrients retained by the isolated aggregates were measured. In the less degraded soils (site B), organic matter decomposition was stimulated, and after 1 year, the total OC (TOC) and TOC/N declined. Consequently, a reduction in aggregate stability and ability to preserve elements occurred, as shown by the decrease of wet aggregate stability indexes and total nutrients (e.g. N, P and K) retained by stable aggregates. In more degraded soil (site A), alfalfa generally positively affected the investigated properties. The effect of alfalfa in the studied crop rotation depends on the degree of land degradation due to water erosion. As regards the investigated breakdown mechanisms, our data showed that the aggregate resistance to water abrasion was related to TOC, while the resistance against fast wetting breakdown is correlated to the microbial biomass. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Blockage of Wnt/β‐Catenin Signaling by Nanoparticles Reduces Survival and Proliferation of CLL Cells In Vitro—Preliminary Study
Authors: Franiak‐Pietryga Ida , Maciejewski Henryk , Ziemba Barbara , Appelhans Dietmar , Voit Brigitte , Robak Tadeusz , Jander Magdalena , Treliński Jacek , Bryszewska Maria , Borowiec Maciej
Published: August 2017

The Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway is shown to play a significant role in the control of the survival, proliferation, and differentiation of hematopoietic cells. Studies have confirmed that aberrant activation of canonical Wnt signaling occurs in various forms of leukemia, and is crucial for chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) pathogenesis. The aim of the study is to evaluate the influence of maltotriose (M3) modified fourth generation poly(propylene imine) dendrimers (PPI‐G4) on Wnt/β‐catenin pathway gene expression in CLL (MEC‐1) cells and to compare these findings with those obtained with fludarabine (FA). Microarray data analysis reveals seven of 19 Wnt/β‐catenin pathway genes whose expression changes significantly during dendrimer and FA treatment: WNT10A, WNT6, and CDH1 among others. PPI‐G4‐M3 is already known to influence MEC‐1 cell apoptosis and proliferation. The obtained results suggest that the reduction in cell survival under the influence of glycodendrimers and FA may be due to loss of Wnt signaling.
Expanding the mutational spectrum in Johanson‐Blizzard syndrome: identification of whole exon deletions and duplications in theUBR1gene by multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification analysis
Authors: Sukalo Maja , Schäflein Eva , Schanze Ina , Everman David B. , Rezaei Nima , Argente Jesús , Lorda‐Sanchez Isabel , Deshpande Charu , Takahashi Tsutomu , Kleger Alexander , Zenker Martin
Published: August 2017

Background

Johanson‐Blizzard syndrome (JBS,MIM#243800) is a very rare autosomal recessive disorder characterized by exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, nasal wing hypoplasia, hypodontia, and other abnormalities.JBSis caused by mutations of theUBR1gene (MIM*605981), encoding a ubiquitin ligase of the N‐end rule pathway.

Methods

Molecular findings in a total of 65 unrelated patients with a clinical diagnosis ofJBSwho were previously screened forUBR1 mutations by Sanger sequencing were reviewed and cases lacking a disease‐causingUBR1 mutation on either one or both alleles were included in this study. In order to discover mutations that are not detectable by Sanger sequencing, we designed a probe set for multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification (MLPA) analysis of theUBR1gene and analyzed the copy number status of all 47UBR1exons.

Results

Our previous studies using Sanger sequencing could detect mutations in 93.1% of 130 disease‐associatedUBR1alleles. Six patients with a highly suggestive clinical diagnosis ofJBSand unsolved genotype were included in this study.MLPAanalysis detected six alleles harboring exon deletions/duplications, thereby raising the mutation detection rate in the entire cohort to 97.7% (127/130 alleles).

Conclusion

We conclude that single or multi‐exon deletions or duplications account for a substantial proportion ofJBS‐associatedUBR1mutations.
The accuracy of static pressure measurement with water‐filled urodynamic systems
Authors: Gammie Andrew
Published: August 2017

Aims

To quantify the inaccuracy of pressure measurement by water‐filled systems, with a view to recommending better practice.

Methods

Papers examining quality of measurements were reviewed, and standards documents examined. Technical data from manufacturers were gathered and summarized. Measurements were made on two different urodynamic systems. Individual inaccuracies were combined using the root sum of squares method.

Results

The total inaccuracy in measurement may reach up to 9.6 cmH2O on pdet, but with good practice this may be mitigated to 1.3 cmH2O.

Conclusions

Water‐filled systems, while being the recommended method for urodynamic measurements, are subject to a potential inaccuracy during poor use of up to approximately 10 cmH2O on pdet. Good practice can reduce this inaccuracy to a tolerable level, that is, approximately 1 cmH2O.
Health literacy, cognition, and urinary incontinence among geriatric inpatients discharged to skilled nursing facilities
Authors: Cohn Joshua A. , Shah Avantika S. , Goggins Kathryn M. , Simmons Sandra F. , Kripalani Sunil , Dmochowski Roger R. , Schnelle John F. , Reynolds William Stuart
Published: August 2017

Aims

To investigate the association between health literacy and cognition and nursing and patient‐reported incontinence in a geriatric inpatient population transitioning to skilled nursing facilities (SNF).

Methods

Health literacy, depression, and cognition were assessed via the Brief Health Literacy Screen (BHLS), Geriatric Depression Scale 5‐item (GDS) and Brief Interview for Mental Status (BIMS), respectively. Multivariable logistic regression assessed the association between BHLS score and incontinence by: (1) nursing‐reported urinary incontinence during hospitalization; and (2) patient self‐reported “bladder accidents” in the post‐enrollment study interview.

Results

A total of 1556 hospitalized patients aged 65 and older met inclusion criteria, of whom 922 (59.3%) were women and 1480 had available BHLS scores. A total of 464 (29.8%) and 515 (33.1%) patients had nursing‐reported and self‐reported urinary incontinence, respectively. Nursing‐reported incontinence was significantly associated with lower BHLS (ie, poorer health literacy) (aOR 0.93, 95%CI 0.89‐0.99) and BIMS (ie, poorer cognition) (aOR 0.90, 95%CI 0.83‐0.97) scores and need for assistance with toileting (aOR 7.08, 95%CI 2.16‐23.21). Patient‐reported incontinence was significantly associated with female sex (aOR 1.62, 95%CI 1.19‐2.21), increased GDS score (ie, greater likelihood of depression) (aOR 1.22, 95%CI 1.10‐1.36) and need for assistance with toileting (aOR 2.46, 95%CI 1.26‐4.79).

Conclusions

Poorer health literacy and cognition are independently associated with an increased likelihood of nursing‐reported urinary incontinence among geriatric inpatients transitioning to SNF. Practitioners should consider assessment of health literacy and cognition in frail patients at risk for urinary incontinence and that patient and nursing assessment may be required to capture the diagnosis.
Enabling autonomicity in wireless mesh networks with the ETSI AFI GANA reference model
Authors: Szott Szymon , Gozdecki Janusz , Kosek‐Szott Katarzyna , Loziak Krzysztof , Natkaniec Marek , Wagrowski Michal , Chaparadza Ranganai
Published: August 2017

The distributed nature of wireless mesh networks (WMNs) allows them to benefit from multiple autonomic functionalities. However, the existing landscape of self‐x solutions (eg, self‐configuration) is fragmented and the lack of a standardized framework through which interoperable autonomics can be developed has been hampering adoption and deployment of autonomics in real‐world service networks. There is a need for a standardized architectural framework that enables to comprehensively support and integrate interoperable components for autonomicity in WMNs. Such an architecture (autonomicity‐enabled wireless mesh architecture) is currently being standardized by the working group called Evolution of Management towards Autonomic Future Internet (AFI) in the European Telecommunications Standards Institute within the Network Technologies Technical Committee. The proposed autonomic wireless mesh architecture is an instantiation of the AFI GANA (Generic Autonomic Network Architecture) reference model, a standards‐based approach to autonomics. This paper complements and extends the early version of the architecture by further detailing the architectural principles and providing experimental and validation results. First, we provide a brief overview of the AFI GANA reference model and then show how each of its building blocks can be instantiated for WMNs. We evaluate the proposed architecture by implementing and testing the 4 basic self‐x functionalities defined by the GANA model. The provided guidelines can now help researchers and engineers build autonomicity‐enabled WMNs using a standardized framework that enables adoption and deployment of autonomics by industry, thereby enabling researchers and engineers to contribute to the further evolution of the standard in the European Telecommunications Standards Institute.
Enhanced piezo‐electric property induced in graphene oxide/polyvinylidene fluoride composite flexible thin films
Authors: Bhunia Ritamay , Dey Rajkumar , Das Shirsendu , Hussain Shamima , Bhar Radhaballav , Kumar Pal Arun
Published: August 2017

Graphene oxide/PVDF composite free‐standing flexible films were prepared with different amount of GO fillers in PVDF matrix using sol‐gel technique. The films were characterized by Field emission scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Raman studies. Results FTIR, XPS, and Raman were critically analysed for modulation of bonding ambience. The GO/PVDF composite films indicated films to be sp2 rich. Departure from centro‐symmetry of GO when embedded in PVDF matrix leading towards efficient nanogenerator application is discussed critically in the light of Raman and XPS studies. High output voltage was recorded for the unpoled film while the poled samples indicated very negligible output. A rectifying circuit was used to charge a capacitor which was discharged for supplying energy to trigger a red light emitting diode. A maximum a.c. output voltage of ±28V was recorded at microwatt power level. Increments in output voltages with increased GO loading in the PVDF matrix were observed. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:4205–4216, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Unique shape memory behavior of polyolefinic blends with special reference to creep behavior, stress relaxation, and melt rheological study
Authors: Chatterjee Tuhin , Dutta Joyeeta , Naskar Kinsuk
Published: August 2017

Creep response, stress relaxation behavior, and melt rheological study of the shape memory polymer blend based on EOC‐EPDM has been studied in details. In this study, especially the effect of the crosslinks formation in presence of electron beam on the creep response, melt rheological study and stress relaxation behavior has been reported. With increase of electron beam dose, creep response becomes lower and the creep compliance value also comes down. Higher resistance creep response of the radiation crosslinked blends indicates the superior shape recovery behavior of the blends. Stress relaxation behavior of the crosslinked blend also shows the lower decay of stress value with time for higher radiation crosslinked blend. The lower relaxation ratio of the highly radiation crosslinked blend also supports the superior shape recovery behavior of the crosslinked blend. Apart from, melt rheological study shows the higher storage modulus value and higher complex viscosity of the radiation crosslinked blend which also supports the formation of higher crosslinked network structure. Tension set value also clearly indicates the better shape recovery behavior of the crosslinked blend. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 58:876–885, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Chain extension of recycled PA6
Authors: Tuna Basak , Benkreira Hadj
Published: August 2017

Recycling of polymers is a necessity in our intensively consuming polymer world but the nature of polymers is such that they are prone to thermal degradation when re‐extruded and this poses technical challenges to recycling. This article describes research that seeks to rebuild the structure of degraded PA6. We present data from controlled experiments with pristine pPA6 extruded to form a base recycle rPA6 to which we added two chain extenders, separately: one with anhydride multifunctionality (ANHY), highly reactive with amide groups and one with epoxy multifunctionality (EPOX), less reactive. We found from rheological data carried out in the linear viscoelastic region (so as to study structural changes) a striking difference in the ability of the chain extenders to rebuild structure: 306% increase in the complex viscosity of rPA6/ANHY compared to 25% in that of rPA6/EPOX of the base rPA6. Mechanical and thermal (DSC and TGA) tests confirmed the superior efficacy of the multifunctional anhydride chain extender. Beside the practical benefit that ensues from this research, it also provides a strategic platform to develop chain extenders for other degrading polymers on the basis of understanding the degradation chemical reaction and targeting the most reactive end group of the split chains. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 58:1037–1042, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Adsorptive polyHIPE composites based on biosorbent immobilized nanoclay: Effects of immobilization techniques
Authors: Mert Hatice Hande , Tekay Emre , Nugay Nihan , Nugay Turgut , Şen Sinan
Published: August 2017

Styrene/divinyl benzene‐based macroporous polyHIPE composites were prepared from water‐in‐oil (w/o) high internal phase emulsion (HIPE) templates by using both organo‐modified montmorillonite (MMT) and a nonionic surfactant. For this purpose, Spirulina (Sp) microalgae was immobilized onto Na‐MMT clay by using two different modification techniques. They are based on conventional adsorption in solution (SOL) and novel cryoscopic expansion (C‐XP) assisted adsorption. Highly porous nanocomposites were prepared by using different percentages of modified nanoclays (SpSOLM/SpXPM) with a constant internal phase volume of 80%. The emulsion stability, morphology, and dye adsorption capacities were discussed by paying attention to nanoclay immobilization techniques, clay loading degree and surfactant concentration. The critical amount of nonionic surfactant for formation of the stable neat HIPE template was found to be only 5 vol% with respect to volume of organic phase. However, this amount was further reduced to much less value (2 vol%) with Sp immobilized nanoclays via help of cooperative interactions of Sp and MMT nanoclay. The C‐XP assisted modification of clay led to nanocomposites with 580% higher adsorption capacity for cationic dye. This remarkable benefit was obtained with even 0.5% clay loading and only 2% surfactant concentration. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 58:1229–1240, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Clinician provision of oncofertility support in cancer patients of a reproductive age: A systematic review
Authors: Logan S. , Perz J. , Ussher J. , Peate M. , Anazodo A.
Published: August 2017

Objective

The emerging discipline of oncofertility advocates for the timely provision of fertility information and referral for fertility preservation to all cancer patients of reproductive age (<45 years). A systematic review was undertaken on the clinician provision of oncofertility support to determine whether cancer patients are having their support needs adequately met by staff.

Methods

An initial search conducted in May 2016 identified 351 potentially relevant studies. The papers were divided into 2 categories: Papers on the clinician provision of oncofertility support were reviewed for this study, and papers on patient oncofertility support needs were reviewed for a separate systematic review.

Results

A total of 23 studies were included within the final review of this manuscript. Although many clinicians are broadly informed about the risk to their patients' fertility brought about by cancer treatment, there are many factors which hinder the appropriate discussion, referral, or service utilisation needed to provide adequate oncofertility support to patients of reproductive age.

Conclusions

Oncofertility support is often not delivered to the standard of current guidelines, with many clinicians not providing the recommended care to all eligible patients, and as such many patients may lack the oncofertility support that they require. The implementation of a clear procedural process would assist clinicians in the provision of oncofertility support for cancer patients of reproductive age.
Ensemblator v3: Robust atom‐level comparative analyses and classification of protein structure ensembles
Authors: Brereton Andrew E. , Karplus P. Andrew
Published: August 2017

Ensembles of protein structures are increasingly used to represent the conformational variation of a protein as determined by experiment and/or by molecular simulations, as well as uncertainties that may be associated with structure determinations or predictions. Making the best use of such information requires the ability to quantitatively compare entire ensembles. For this reason, we recently introduced the Ensemblator (Clark et al., Protein Sci 2015; 24:1528), a novel approach to compare user‐defined groups of models, in residue level detail. Here we describe Ensemblator v3, an open‐source program that employs the same basic ensemble comparison strategy but includes major advances that make it more robust, powerful, and user‐friendly. Ensemblator v3 carries out multiple sequence alignments to facilitate the generation of ensembles from non‐identical input structures, automatically optimizes the key global overlay parameter, optionally performs “ensemble clustering” to classify the models into subgroups, and calculates a novel “discrimination index” that quantifies similarities and differences, at residue or atom level, between each pair of subgroups. The clustering and automatic options mean that no pre‐knowledge about an ensemble is required for its analysis. After describing the novel features of Ensemblator v3, we demonstrate its utility using three case studies that illustrate the ease with which complex analyses are accomplished, and the kinds of insights derived from clustering into subgroups and from the detailed information that locates significant differences. The Ensemblator v3 enhances the structural biology toolbox by greatly expanding the kinds of problems to which this ensemble comparison strategy can be applied.
A comparison of operative outcomes between standard and robotic laparoscopic surgery for endometrial cancer: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Ind Thomas , Laios Alex , Hacking Matthew , Nobbenhuis Marielle
Published: August 2017

Background

Evidence has been systematically assessed comparing robotic with standard laparoscopy for treatment of endometrial cancer.

Methods

A search of Medline, Embase and Cochrane databases was performed until 30th October 2016.

Results

Thirty‐six papers including 33 retrospective studies, two matched case–control studies and one randomized controlled study were used in a meta‐analysis. Information from a further seven registry/database studies were assessed descriptively. There were no differences in the duration of surgery but days stay in hospital were shorter in the robotic arm (0.46 days, 95%CI 0.26 to 0.66). A robotic approach had less blood loss (57.74 mL, 95%CI 38.29 to 77.20), less conversions to laparotomy (RR = 0.41, 95%CI 0.29 to 0.59), and less overall complications (RR = 0.82, 95%CI 0.72 to 0.93). A robotic approach had higher costs ($1746.20, 95%CI $63.37 to $3429.03).

Conclusion

A robotic approach has favourable clinical outcomes but is more expensive.
Poorer without It? The Neglected Role of the Natural Environment in Poverty and Wellbeing
Authors: Schleicher Judith , Schaafsma Marije , Burgess Neil D. , Sandbrook Chris , Danks Fiona , Cowie Chris , Vira Bhaskar
Published: August 2017

The relationship between sustainable development's prime goal, human wellbeing, and the natural environment has been narrowly conceived. This paper focuses on the possibility and the implications of treating the natural environment as a ‘constituent’, or internal element, of the concepts of wellbeing and poverty, as opposed to a ‘determinant’, or instrumental, external factor. Our review of philosophical accounts and conceptual frameworks of wellbeing and poverty suggests that treating the environment as a constituent element is philosophically sound, conceptually robust and empirically grounded. We argue that failing to consider these missing environmental aspects can result in an incomplete capturing of the multiple dimensions of wellbeing and poverty, and their underlying drivers. This broader framing of the environment–wellbeing relationship has the potential to inform a new generation of individual level wellbeing and poverty indicators, creating measures of multidimensional poverty that reflect the broadened scope ambitiously articulated in the Sustainable Development Goals. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Sustainable Development published by ERP Environment and John Wiley & Sons Ltd
Growth and characterization of ultrathin carbon films on electrodeposited Cu and Ni
Authors: Pedrazzetti L. , Nobili L. , Magagnin L. , Bernasconi R. , Lucotti A. , Soltani P. , Mezzi A. , Kaciulis S.
Published: August 2017

Ultrathin carbon films were grown on different types of metallic substrates. Free‐standing foils of Cu and Ni were prepared by electroforming, and a pure Ni film was obtained by galvanic displacement on a Si wafer. Commercial foil of Ni 99.95% was used as a reference substrate. Carbon films were grown on these substrates by chemical vapour deposition in a CH4‐H2 atmosphere. Obtained films were characterized by Raman spectroscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Auger electron spectroscopy, and ultraviolet photoemission spectroscopy. The XPS at grazing collection angle was used to determine the thickness of carbon films.

Depending on the deposition parameters, the films of graphene or graphite were obtained on the different substrates. The uniformity of graphene and its distribution over the sample area were investigated from Raman data, optical images, and XPS chemical maps. The presence of graphene or graphite in the films was determined from the Raman spectra and Auger peak of C KVV. For this purpose, the D parameter, which is a fingerprint of carbon allotropes, was determined from C KVV spectra acquired by using X‐rays and electron beam. A formation of an intermediate layer of metal hydroxide was revealed in the samples with graphene overlayer.
Dynamic classification using credible intervals in longitudinal discriminant analysis
Authors: Hughes David M. , Komárek Arnošt , Bonnett Laura J. , Czanner Gabriela , García‐Fiñana Marta
Published: August 2017

Recently developed methods of longitudinal discriminant analysis allow for classification of subjects into prespecified prognostic groups using longitudinal history of both continuous and discrete biomarkers. The classification uses Bayesian estimates of the group membership probabilities for each prognostic group. These estimates are derived from a multivariate generalised linear mixed model of the biomarker's longitudinal evolution in each of the groups and can be updated each time new data is available for a patient, providing a dynamic (over time) allocation scheme. However, the precision of the estimated group probabilities differs for each patient and also over time. This precision can be assessed by looking at credible intervals for the group membership probabilities. In this paper, we propose a new allocation rule that incorporates credible intervals for use in context of a dynamic longitudinal discriminant analysis and show that this can decrease the number of false positives in a prognostic test, improving the positive predictive value. We also establish that by leaving some patients unclassified for a certain period, the classification accuracy of those patients who are classified can be improved, giving increased confidence to clinicians in their decision making. Finally, we show that determining a stopping rule dynamically can be more accurate than specifying a set time point at which to decide on a patient's status. We illustrate our methodology using data from patients with epilepsy and show how patients who fail to achieve adequate seizure control are more accurately identified using credible intervals compared to existing methods.
Multiplicity considerations in subgroup analysis
Authors: Dmitrienko Alex , Millen Brian , Lipkovich Ilya
Published: August 2017

This paper deals with the general topic of subgroup analysis in late‐stage clinical trials with emphasis on multiplicity considerations. The discussion begins with multiplicity issues arising in the context of exploratory subgroup analysis, including principled approaches to subgroup search that are applied as part of subgroup exploration exercises as well as in adaptive biomarker‐driven designs. Key considerations in confirmatory subgroup analysis based on one or more pre‐specified patient populations are reviewed, including a survey of multiplicity adjustment methods recommended in multi‐population phase III clinical trials. Guidelines for interpretation of significant findings in several patient populations are introduced to facilitate the decision‐making process and achieve consistent labeling across development programs. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cr–Containing Magnetic Oxides in a Methanol Synthesis: Does Cr Ion Distribution Matter?
Authors: Baird Nicholas , Dittmar Jasper W. , Losovyj Yaroslav B. , Pink Maren , Morgan David Gene , Stein Barry D. , Torozova Alexandra S. , Krasnova Irina Yu. , Grigoriev Maxim E. , Sidorov Alexander I. , Sulman Mikhail G. , Shifrina Zinaida B. , Bronstein Lyudmila M.
Published: August 2017

Here, we report on the development of novel Cr‐containing magnetic oxide nanoparticles (NPs) as catalysts for a syngas‐to‐methanol reaction which constitutes a sustainable route to obtain value‐added chemicals. These NPs have been synthesized in a one‐pot reaction by thermal decomposition of Cr acetylacetonate and doping metal acetylacetonates (if used) in the reaction solution of preformed magnetite NPs stabilized by polyphenylquinoxaline. For all the samples, the NP surface is enriched with Cr. At the same time, the Cr species are finely dispersed in the magnetite phase. This exposes Cr catalytic species to reacting molecules and creates an intimate contact between Cr3+ and Fe3O4. As a result, the methanol productivity rate for the Cr‐containing magnetic oxide prepared with 0.5 mmol of the Cr precursor is approximately three orders of magnitude higher than that for the conventional Cu/ZnO/Al2O3 catalyst. Additional doping of this Cr‐containing magnetic oxide with small amounts of Ni or La leads to even higher catalytic activity (by 40–49%).
Synthesis of 4‐Formyl‐2‐arylbenzofuran Derivatives by PdCl(C3H5)dppb‐Catalyzed Tandem Sonogashira Coupling‐Cyclization under Microwave Irradiation ‐ Application to the Synthesis of Viniferifuran Analogues
Authors: Vo Duy D. , Elofsson Mikael
Published: August 2017

Herein we present the use of low catalyst loading of PdCl(C3H5)dppb (1 mol%) to directly prepare 4‐CHO‐2‐arylbenzofurans by copper‐free tandem Sonogashira coupling‐cyclization under microwave irradiation. The method was utilized to prepare highly substituted analogues of viniferifuran, a biologically active resveratrol dimer. Key transformations included the application of PdCl(C3H5)dppb (5 mol%) catalyzed direct arylation of C‐3 sterically congested C‐2 and C‐4 substituted benzofuran substrates. Finally, we demonstrated that BCl3/TBAI is superior to BBr3 for final demethylation.
Deformation Induced Martensitic Transformation and Its Initial Microstructure Dependence in a High Alloyed Duplex Stainless Steel
Authors: Xie Lin , Huang Tian‐Lin , Wang Yu‐Hui , Wu Gui‐Lin , Tsuji Nobuhiro , Huang Xiao‐Xu
Published: August 2017

Deformation induced martensitic transformation (DIMT) usually occurs in metastable austenitic stainless steels. Recent studies have shown that DIMT may occur in the austenite phase of low alloyed duplex stainless steels. The present study demonstrates that DIMT can also take place in a high alloyed Fe–23Cr–8.5Ni duplex stainless steel, which exhibits an unexpectedly rapid transformation from γ‐austenite into α′‐martensite. However, an inhibited martensitic transformation has been observed by varying the initial microstructure from a coarse alternating austenite and ferrite band structure to a fine equiaxed microduplex structure.
GA-Binding Protein Alpha Is Involved in the Survival of Mouse Embryonic Stem Cells
Authors: Ueda Atsushi , Akagi Tadayuki , Yokota Takashi
Published: August 2017

Ets-related transcription factor GA-binding protein alpha (GABPα), which is encoded by Gabpa, is expressed in a variety of cell types and is involved in cellular functions such as cell cycle regulation, apoptosis, and differentiation. Here, we generated Gabpa conditional knockout embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and characterized its cellular phenotypes. Disruption of Gabpa revealed that the proliferation of Gabpa-null ESCs was drastically repressed and cells started to die within 2 days. The repressed proliferation of Gabpa-null ESCs was recovered by artificially forced expression of GABPα. Expression analysis showed that p53 mRNA levels were comparable; however, p53 target genes, including Cdkn1a/p21, Mdm2, and Gadd45a, were upregulated and cell cycle-related genes, including Cyclin D1/D2 and Cyclin E1/E2, were downregulated in Gabpa-null ESCs. Interestingly, p53 and cleaved Caspase3 expressions were enhanced in the cells and reduced proliferation as well as cell death of Gabpa-null ESCs were rescued by either transfection of p53 RNAi or treatment of the p53 inhibitor pifithrin-α. These results suggest that GABPα inhibits the accumulation of p53 and is involved in the proliferation and survival of ESCs.
Bond strength of carbon fiber composites glued to concrete surface
Authors: de Souza Sánchez Filho Emil , Silva Filho Júlio Jerônimo Holtz , Perlingeiro Mayra Soares Pereira Lima , de Figueiredo Guerrante Iporan
Published: August 2017

This paper describes an analytical study about the bond between concrete and glued carbon fiber composites (CFCs) using data of 2 experimental researches. A total of 27 double compression‐tension tests were carried out on specimens with 2 concrete cubes (fixed and movable) connected by carbon fiber strips on opposite sides. The variables were concrete strength, with the evaluation of 9 specimens with strength of 20.5 to 38.1 MPa, with monotonic loading and smooth surface for all specimens, and 18 specimens with strength of 23.2 to 40.8 MPa, with monotonic loading and loading/unloading cycles and different concrete surfaces (smooth face and rough face). The test results showed that the ultimate bond stress slightly varies according to concrete strength in the analyzed zone. The strains of CFCs and concrete were measured, allowing the calculation of bond stress and the corresponding mean strain, which were compared with the values obtained by the expression given in the international codes. The prediction of the old expression applies to steel plates strengthening method, and the results of a more recent expression of CFC glued to concrete given by fib Bulletins and Model Code 2010 are compared with test results. The experimental results provided graphs and correlation curves for bond stress vs maximum strain, energy of fracture vs bond stress and a relationship between the mean shear strain and concrete strength. The expression for fracture energy given by fib Bulletins and Model Code 2010 varies with concrete strength fc and a reasonable agreement with test data was achieved.
Is “glocalization” still the golden way for Electrolux? Is there more to be done?
Authors: Hollensen Svend , Møller Erik
Published: August 2017

Electrolux is the company in the worldwide household appliances industry with the widest geographic reach. But Electrolux manages to cope with regionalization in a clear and effective way, based on its dedication to deep local consumer insight. Electrolux is balancing between globalization and localization in the different key functions, searching to take the best from the two. We conclude that Electrolux has chosen a true glocalization strategy. But there still remain some tough future challenges for Electrolux in terms of coping with slow and blurred internal reporting lines.
The circular economy and circular economic concepts—a literature analysis and redefinition
Authors: Geisendorf Sylvie , Pietrulla Felicitas
Published: August 2017

This article proposes a revised definition of the circular economy after having analyzed and compared the most prominent related concepts. Based on an analysis of academic literature, defining characteristics of different concepts are identified to structure the field of research. The comparison of concepts serves as a basis for the synthesis: a revised definition of the circular economy. While most concepts overlap, they emphasize different issues. Our classification helps to distinguish how concepts are situated in dimensions such as industry/service oriented, efficiency/zero waste target, or micro/macro scope. The revised definition distinguishes between core characteristics of a circular economy and framing conditions enabling its implementation. It has the potential to support both researchers and practitioners to develop clearer guidelines for the path to a circular economy.
Transarterial chemoembolization with miriplatin vs. epirubicin for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma: a phase III randomized trial
Authors: Ikeda Masafumi , Kudo Masatoshi , Aikata Hiroshi , Nagamatsu Hiroaki , Ishii Hiroshi , Yokosuka Osamu , Torimura Takuji , Morimoto Manabu , Ikeda Kenji , Kumada Hiromitsu , Sato Tosiya , Kawai Ikuko , Yamashita Toru , Horio Hiroshi , Okusaka Takuji ,   Miriplatin TACE Study Group
Published: August 2017

Background

This prospective study investigated the superiority of transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) with miriplatin over TACE with epirubicin regarding overall survival (OS) in patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

Patients with unresectable HCC were randomized 1:1 to receive TACE with miriplatin or epirubicin in lipiodol. The primary endpoint was OS; secondary endpoints were percentages of patients who achieved treatment effect (TE) 4 (100% necrotizing effect or tumor reduction), duration of time to TACE failure, and adverse events (AEs). OS was compared using a stratified log-rank test adjusted for clinical stage, Child–Pugh class, and institution.

Results

Of 257 patients enrolled from August 2008 to August 2010, 247 were analyzed for efficacy and toxicity (miriplatin, n = 124; epirubicin, n = 123). Baseline characteristics were well balanced between the two groups. Median OS times were 1111 days for miriplatin and 1127 days for epirubicin (adjusted hazard ratio 1.01, 95% confidence interval 0.73–1.40, P = 0.946). TE4 rates were 44.4% for miriplatin and 37.4% for epirubicin. Median times to TACE failure were 365.5 days for miriplatin and 414.0 days for epirubicin. AEs of grade 3 or higher, including elevated aspartate aminotransferase (miriplatin, 39.5%; epirubicin, 57.7%) and elevated alanine aminotransferase (miriplatin, 31.5%; epirubicin, 53.7%), were less frequent in the miriplatin than the epirubicin group.

Conclusions

OS after TACE with miriplatin was not superior to that after TACE with epirubicin; however, hepatic AEs were less frequent with miriplatin.

Clinical Trial Registration: JapicCTI-080632.
The influence of invasive mongoose on the genetic structure of the endangered Amami rabbit populations
Authors: Ohnishi Naoki , Kobayashi Soh , Nagata Junco , Yamada Fumio
Published: August 2017

Invasive carnivores often cause heavy damage to native species on small islands. Endangered Amami rabbit (Pentalagus furnessi) populations have been fragmented into a north‐isolated population (NI) and a south‐large population (SL) caused by predation pressure from the invasive small Indian mongoose (Herpestes auropunctatus) on Amami Oshima Island in southern Japan. We investigated the genetic structure of these rabbit populations to determine the effects of fragmentation. We collected rabbit feces from most of the Amami Oshima Island habitat and sequenced the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) control region along with its 5′‐flanking region (312 bp) and genotyped eight microsatellite DNA loci. Genetic diversity was lower in the NI than that in the SL population, andFSTvalues between the two populations were significantly higher than zero in both the mtDNA and microsatellite DNA. Bayesian clustering analyses suggested four ancestral clusters of Amami rabbit, but clear genetic structure was not observed. A partial Mantel test supported isolation‐by‐distance but not habitat fragmentation. These results suggest that the low genetic diversity in the NI population was caused by the small population size after fragmentation; however, the difference in genetic structure between the two populations was caused by isolation‐by‐distance and the structure has been maintained.
Increasing Inequality in Parent Incomes and Children’s Schooling
Authors: Duncan Greg J. , Kalil Ariel , Ziol-Guest Kathleen M.
Published: August 2017

Income inequality and the achievement test score gap between high- and low-income children increased dramatically in the United States beginning in the 1970s. This article investigates the demographic (family income, mother’s education, family size, two-parent family structure, and age of mother at birth) underpinnings of the growing income-based gap in schooling using data from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics. Across 31 cohorts, we find that increases in the income gap between high- and low-income children account for approximately three-quarters of the increasing gap in completed schooling, one-half of the gap in college attendance, and one-fifth of the gap in college graduation. We find no consistent evidence of increases in the estimated associations between parental income and children’s completed schooling. Increasing gaps in the two-parent family structures of high- and low-income families accounted for relatively little of the schooling gap because our estimates of the (regression-adjusted) associations between family structure and schooling were surprisingly small for much of our accounting period. On the other hand, increasing gaps in mother’s age at the time of birth accounts for a substantial portion of the increasing schooling gap: mother’s age is consistently predictive of children’s completed schooling, and the maternal age gap for children born into low- and high-income families increased considerably over the period.