bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transport pathways shape the biogeography of alien freshwater fishes in Australia
Authors: García‐Díaz Pablo , Kerezsy Adam , Unmack Peter J. , Lintermans Mark , Beatty Stephen J. , Butler Gavin L. , Freeman Rob , Hammer Michael P. , Hardie Scott , Kennard Mark J. , Morgan David L. , Pusey Bradley J. , Raadik Tarmo A. , Thiem Jason D. , Whiterod Nick S. , Cassey Phillip , Duncan Richard P.
Published: May 2018

Aim

Changing preferences regarding which species humans have transported to new regions can have major consequences for the potential distribution of alien taxa, but the mechanisms shaping these patterns are poorly understood. We assessed the extent to which changes in human preferences for transporting and introducing alien freshwater fishes have altered their biogeography.

Location

Australia.

Methods

We compiled an up‐to‐date database of alien freshwater fishes established in drainages in Australia before and after the number of established alien fish species doubled (pre‐1970 and post‐1970, respectively). Using metacommunity models, we analysed the influence of species traits and drainage features on the distribution of alien fishes that established pre‐ and post‐1970.

Results

Alien fishes in Australia were introduced via four main transport pathways: acclimatization, aquaculture, biocontrol and ornamental trade. The relative importance of each pathway changed substantially between the two periods, accompanied by changes in the distribution of alien fishes and the variables predicting their distribution. Pre‐1970, most species (64%) were introduced by acclimatization societies for purposes such as angling and biocontrol, and these fish have established in inland drainages more heavily impacted by human activities. In contrast, most of the post‐1970 introductions (69%) were ornamental fishes, with most species established in small, north‐eastern, tropical and subtropical coastal drainages.

Main conclusions

Substantial changes in introduction preferences and transport pathways over time have altered both the patterns and underlying processes shaping the biogeography of alien fishes in Australia. Our findings highlight the need for caution when using historical data to infer potential future distributions of alien species. The continuing spread of alien species means traditional biogeographical units may no longer be identifiable in the foreseeable future.
Bureaucratic manoeuvres and the local politics of climate change mitigation in China and India
Authors: Harrison Tom , Kostka Genia
Published: May 2018

This article explores how strategies of thinking and working politically are used by agencies within developing country governments to influence wider government agendas. It uses research on climate change mitigation in China and India to explore how government agencies seek to overcome challenges of limited capacity and competing priorities by bundling climate change together with more immediate priorities and thereby developing a coalition with an interest in achieving these objectives. The article is based on interviews conducted in China and India, as well as analysis of themes covered in the growing body of literature on the domestic politics of climate change mitigation. In both countries we found that pragmatic approaches leveraging what already exists made significant progress in putting energy efficiency on the agenda, strengthening institutional presence (in India) and delivering improvements in energy efficiency (in China). Yet, we also found that the use of these tactics had significant limitations. While there was probably no other way that the policy space given to climate change mitigation could have increased so rapidly, there are significant side effects that arise as a result of the traction gained by these initial policy approaches. While bundling raised the profile of energy efficiency, it also created perverse incentives that highlight the need to consider the long‐term effect on the interests, capacity and sustainability of informal coalitions. We highlight the need to take account of both the short‐ and long‐term effects of thinking and working politically, and the challenges of doing so when the outcomes are unpredictable and inherently difficult to assess.
Sudden cardiac death in athletes and the value of cardiovascular magnetic resonance
Authors: Mavrogeni Sophie I. , Bacopoulou Flora , Apostolaki Despoina , Chrousos George P.
Published: May 2018

Sudden cardiac death (SCD) is the nontraumatic death, due to loss of heart function that occurs suddenly and unexpectedly within 6 hours of a previously normal state of health. It is related to intense competitive sports promoting ventricular tachycardia (VT)/ventricular fibrillation (VF) in the presence of underlying abnormal substrate. A serial evaluation of cardiac physiologic changes taking place during training will allow the better understanding of athlete's heart and will facilitate its discrimination from other grey‐zone cardiomyopathies. According to the ESC recommendations, a pre‐participation evaluation should include medical history, physical examination as well as a 12‐lead electrocardiogram (ECG). Additional tests, such as echocardiography, 24‐hours Holter monitoring, stress testing and cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) should be requested upon positive findings at the initial evaluation. Cardiovascular magnetic resonance can be of great value in the differential diagnosis between various cardiomyopathies including hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC), left ventricle noncompaction cardiomyopathy (LVNC) and athlete's heart. This is due to its great versatility that can provide reliable and reproducible anatomical, functional and tissue characterization information, which are operator and acoustic window independent.
Modern approaches for early detection of forest pathogens are sorely needed in the United States
Authors: Munck Isabel A. , Bonello Pierluigi
Published: May 2018

Current plant regulatory protocols rely on lists of known pathogens, but many forest pathogens are unknown. Live plants are inspected at port of entry for disease symptoms, but many plant pathogens can persist asymptomatically. Current efforts should be expanded by including random sampling of both symptomatic and asymptomatic plant tissues. Molecular probes and standardized protocols could be developed for invasive forest pathogens of most concern to the United States. High‐throughput sequencing (also known as next‐generation sequencing, or NGS) and bioinformatics could be used to identify potential pathogens in plant and soil samples collected at ports of entry from sentinel trees planted abroad, or in biosurveillance efforts. If potentially invasive forest pathogens were to be identified at ports of entry, sentinel trees, or with biosurveillance, this information must be shared with agencies that conduct forest health monitoring surveys beyond ports of entry.
Effect of deferasirox + erythropoietin vs erythropoietin on erythroid response in Low/Int‐1‐risk MDS patients: Results of the phase II KALLISTO trial
Authors: Gattermann Norbert , Coll Rosa , Jacobasch Lutz , Allameddine Allameddine , Azmon Amin , DeBonnett Laurie , Bruederle Andreas , Jin Jie ,   the KALLISTO study investigators
Published: May 2018

Objectives

Erythropoiesis‐stimulating agents (ESAs) remain first‐choice to treat symptomatic anemia and delay transfusion dependence in most patients with lower‐risk myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) without del(5q). Deferasirox increased erythroid responses in some lower‐risk MDS patients in clinical trials, and adding low‐dose deferasirox to ESA treatment may further improve erythroid response.

Methods

KALLISTO (NCT01868477) was a randomized, open‐label, multicenter, phase II study. Lower‐risk MDS patients received deferasirox at 10 mg/kg/d (dispersible tablets) or 7 mg/kg/d (film‐coated tablets) plus erythropoietin (n = 11), or erythropoietin alone (n = 12) for 24 weeks. The primary endpoint was the between‐group difference in erythroid response within 12 weeks.

Results

Erythroid response occurred in 27.3% of patients receiving deferasirox plus erythropoietin vs 41.7% of patients receiving erythropoietin alone within 12 weeks (difference 14.4%; 95% CI −24.0, 48.16). Within 24 weeks, the hematologic response rate was 27.3% with deferasirox plus erythropoietin vs 50% with erythropoietin alone, and hematologic improvement rates were 45.5% vs 100%. Deferasirox plus erythropoietin was generally well tolerated.

Conclusions

In this small pilot study, combining low‐dose deferasirox with erythropoietin did not improve erythroid response. It remains of interest to investigate early chelation approaches with even lower deferasirox doses plus erythropoietin in lower‐risk MDS patients before the onset of transfusion dependence.
Intra‐specific relatedness, spatial clustering and reduced demographic performance in tropical rainforest trees
Authors: Shao Xiaona , Brown Calum , Worthy Samantha J. , Liu Lu , Cao Min , Li Qiaoming , Lin Luxiang , Swenson Nathan G.
Published: May 2018

Intra‐specific negative density dependence promotes species coexistence by regulating population sizes. Patterns consistent with such density dependence are frequently reported in diverse tropical tree communities. Empirical evidence demonstrating whether intra‐specific variation is related to these patterns, however, is lacking. The present study addresses this important knowledge gap by genotyping all individuals of a tropical tree in a long‐term forest dynamics plot in tropical China. We show that related individuals are often spatially clustered, but having closely related neighbours reduces the growth performance of focal trees. We infer from the evidence that dispersal limitation and negative density dependence are operating simultaneously to impact the spatial distributions of genotypes in a natural population. Furthermore, dispersal limitation decreases local intra‐specific genetic diversity and increases negative density dependence thereby promoting niche differences and species coexistence as predicted by theory.
Qualitative Data Analysis: Exploring Themes, Metaphors and Stories
Authors: Cassell Catherine , Bishop Vicky
Published: May 2018

This paper explores the processes and outcomes of using three different forms of data analytic processes to analyse the same set of qualitative data. The dataset are 24 in‐depth qualitative interviews with taxi drivers about their experiences of dignity at work. To enable an effective comparison of techniques, three types of analysis are used which rely on similar categorisation processes: template analysis; story analysis; and metaphor analysis. In presenting the analysis the aims are to draw attention to the research questions and opportunities for theorising that might be enabled by a given analytic approach and highlight some of the rich variety of analytic approaches available to the qualitative management researcher. Hence we offer a novel, empirical account of the practical use of these three approaches with the intention of potentially expanding the analytic toolkit of other qualitative researchers and promoting the use of a range of different forms of qualitative data analysis. It is argued that given the increasing trend towards standardisation in qualitative management research, it is important to promote alternatives within the qualitative researcher's analytic toolkit.
Limited hatchery introgression into wild brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) populations despite reoccurring stocking
Authors: White Shannon L. , Miller William L. , Dowell Stephanie A. , Bartron Meredith L. , Wagner Tyler
Published: May 2018

Due to increased anthropogenic pressures on many fish populations, supplementing wild populations with captive‐raised individuals has become an increasingly common management practice. Stocking programs can be controversial due to uncertainty about the long‐term fitness effects of genetic introgression on wild populations. In particular, introgression between hatchery and wild individuals can cause declines in wild population fitness, resiliency, and adaptive potential and contribute to local population extirpation. However, low survival and fitness of captive‐raised individuals can minimize the long‐term genetic consequences of stocking in wild populations, and to date the prevalence of introgression in actively stocked ecosystems has not been rigorously evaluated. We quantified the extent of introgression in 30 populations of wild brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) in a Pennsylvania watershed and examined the correlation between introgression and 11 environmental covariates. Genetic assignment tests were used to determine the origin (wild vs. captive‐raised) for 1,742 wild‐caught and 300 hatchery brook trout. To avoid assignment biases, individuals were assigned to two simulated populations that represented the average allele frequencies in wild and hatchery groups. Fish with intermediate probabilities of wild ancestry were classified as introgressed, with threshold values determined through simulation. Even with reoccurring stocking at most sites, over 93% of wild‐caught individuals probabilistically assigned to wild origin, and only 5.6% of wild‐caught fish assigned to introgressed. Models examining environmental drivers of introgression explained <3% of the among‐population variability, and all estimated effects were highly uncertain. This was not surprising given overall low introgression observed in this study. Our results suggest that introgression of hatchery‐derived genotypes can occur at low rates, even in actively stocked ecosystems and across a range of habitats. However, a cautious approach to stocking may still be warranted, as the potential effects of stocking on wild population fitness and the mechanisms limiting introgression are not known.
Population genomics of the introduced and cultivated Pacific kelp Undaria pinnatifida: Marinas—not farms—drive regional connectivity and establishment in natural rocky reefs
Authors: Guzinski Jaromir , Ballenghien Marion , Daguin‐Thiébaut Claire , Lévêque Laurent , Viard Frédérique
Published: May 2018

Ports and farms are well‐known primary introduction hot spots for marine non‐indigenous species (NIS). The extent to which these anthropogenic habitats are sustainable sources of propagules and influence the evolution of NIS in natural habitats was examined in the edible seaweed Undaria pinnatifida, native to Asia and introduced to Europe in the 1970s. Following its deliberate introduction 40 years ago along the French coast of the English Channel, this kelp is now found in three contrasting habitat types: farms, marinas and natural rocky reefs. In the light of the continuous spread of this NIS, it is imperative to better understand the processes behind its sustainable establishment in the wild. In addition, developing effective management plans to curtail the spread of U. pinnatifida requires determining how the three types of populations interact with one another. In addition to an analysis using microsatellite markers, we developed, for the first time in a kelp, a ddRAD‐sequencing technique to genotype 738 individuals sampled in 11 rocky reefs, 12 marinas, and two farms located along ca. 1,000 km of coastline. As expected, the RAD‐seq panel showed more power than the microsatellite panel for identifying fine‐grained patterns. However, both panels demonstrated habitat‐specific properties of the study populations. In particular, farms displayed very low genetic diversity and no inbreeding conversely to populations in marinas and natural rocky reefs. In addition, strong, but chaotic regional genetic structure, was revealed, consistent with human‐mediated dispersal (e.g., leisure boating). We also uncovered a tight relationship between populations in rocky reefs and those in nearby marinas, but not with nearby farms, suggesting spillover from marinas into the wild. At last, a temporal survey spanning 20 generations showed that wild populations are now self‐sustaining, albeit there was no evidence for local adaptation to any of the three habitats. These findings highlight that limiting the spread of U. pinnatifida requires efficient management policies that also target marinas.
Conceptualizing cultural literacy through student learning outcomes assessment
Authors: Barrette Catherine M. , Paesani Kate
Published: May 2018

Student learning outcomes (SLO) assessment is often perceived as a burdensome, top‐down process driven by institutional requirements. Recent research has thus called for discipline‐specific models of SLO assessment to more deeply engage postsecondary faculty in determining what constitutes student learning within their programs. In response, this article presents a recursive process of developing and applying a model of cultural literacy to SLO assessment documents from one foreign language (FL) department comprising multiple BA programs. The study has two interrelated parts: (1) operationalizing the concept of cultural literacy, and (2) analyzing assessment documents using qualitative content analysis. Findings show that cultural literacy is characterized by eight unique factors evident across FL program assessment documents to varying degrees. This measurable definition of cultural literacy can facilitate the alignment of goals and outcomes with disciplinary principles and has implications for curriculum development and instructional practices in collegiate FL programs.
Vegetation growth enhancement in urban environments of the Conterminous United States
Authors: Jia Wenxiao , Zhao Shuqing , Liu Shuguang
Published: May 2018

Cities are natural laboratories for studying vegetation responses to global environmental changes because of their climate, atmospheric, and biogeochemical conditions. However, few holistic studies have been conducted on the impact of urbanization on vegetation growth. We decomposed the overall impacts of urbanization on vegetation growth into direct (replacement of original land surfaces by impervious built‐up) and indirect (urban environments) components, using a conceptual framework and remotely sensed data for 377 metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) in the conterminous United States (CONUS) in 2001, 2006, and 2011. Results showed that urban pixels are often greener than expected given the amount of paved surface they contain. The vegetation growth enhancement due to indirect effects occurred in 88.4%, 90.8%, and 92.9% of urban bins in 2001, 2006, and 2011, respectively. By defining offset value as the ratio of the absolute indirect and direct impact, we obtained that growth enhancement due to indirect effects compensated for about 29.2%, 29.5%, and 31.0% of the reduced productivity due to loss of vegetated surface area on average in 2001, 2006, and 2011, respectively. Vegetation growth responses to urbanization showed little temporal variation but large regional differences with higher offset value in the western CONUS than in the eastern CONUS. Our study highlights the prevalence of vegetation growth enhancement in urban environments and the necessity of differentiating various impacts of urbanization on vegetation growth, and calls for tailored field experiments to understand the relative contributions of various driving forces to vegetation growth and predict vegetation responses to future global change using cities as harbingers.
Core outcome set for gene therapy in haemophilia: Results of the coreHEM multistakeholder project
Authors: Iorio A. , Skinner M. W. , Clearfield E. , Messner D. , Pierce G. F. , Witkop M. , Tunis S. ,   the coreHEM panel
Published: May 2018

Background

Gene therapy trial results show potential to cure haemophilia A and haemophilia B. Securing broad access to a cure for a lifelong chronic disease is anticipated to face barriers at the individual and healthcare system levels, which can be partly mitigated by harmonized planning of clinical research studies. The aim of the coreHEM project was to determine the set of outcome measures required to evaluate efficacy, safety, comparative effectiveness and value of gene therapy for haemophilia.

Methods

Modified Delphi consensus process, based on methods adapted from the COMET Initiative.

Results

Forty‐nine participants (five patients, five clinicians, five researchers, four regulators, three research agencies, six health technology assessors, nine payers and 12 drug developers) took part in the study, with over 90% participation. The frequency of bleeds, factor activity level, duration of expression, chronic pain, healthcare resource use and mental health were identified as the core outcomes to be measured in addition to regulatory‐mandated adverse effects.

Conclusions

For the first time in haemophilia, a core outcome set has been developed, with the involvement of representatives of all relevant stakeholder groups. The core set has been expanded to include outcomes supporting assessment of comparative effectiveness and value, with the goal of streamlining regulatory approval, health technology assessment and market access decisions. Patient involvement ensures that outcomes are meaningful and relevant to those living with haemophilia. Active dialogue among drug developers, regulators and payers throughout the process is expected to facilitate broad uptake of the core outcomes in forthcoming clinical trials.
Regenerative endodontics: a comprehensive review
Authors: Kim S. G. , Malek M. , Sigurdsson A. , Lin L. M. , Kahler B.
Published: May 2018

The European Society of Endodontology and the American Association for Endodontists have released position statements and clinical considerations for regenerative endodontics. There is increasing literature on this field since the initial reports of Iwaya et al. (Dental Traumatology, 17, 2001, 185) and Banchs & Trope (Journal of Endodontics, 30, 2004, 196). Endogenous stem cells from an induced periapical bleeding and scaffolds using blood clot, platelet rich plasma or platelet‐rich fibrin have been utilized in regenerative endodontics. This approach has been described as a ‘paradigm shift’ and considered the first treatment option for immature teeth with pulp necrosis. There are three treatment outcomes of regenerative endodontics; (i) resolution of clinical signs and symptoms; (ii) further root maturation; and (iii) return of neurogenesis. It is known that results are variable for these objectives, and true regeneration of the pulp/dentine complex is not achieved. Repair derived primarily from the periodontal and osseous tissues has been shown histologically. It is hoped that with the concept of tissue engineering, namely stem cells, scaffolds and signalling molecules, that true pulp regeneration is an achievable goal. This review discusses current knowledge as well as future directions for regenerative endodontics. Patient‐centred outcomes such as tooth discolouration and possibly more appointments with the potential for adverse effects needs to be discussed with patients and parents. Based on the classification of Cvek (Endodontics and Dental Traumatology, 8, 1992, 45), it is proposed that regenerative endodontics should be considered for teeth with incomplete root formation although teeth with near or complete root formation may be more suited for conventional endodontic therapy or MTA barrier techniques. However, much is still not known about clinical and biological aspects of regenerative endodontics.
“The Evolution of Eyebrow Morphology: The Westmore Model Revisited”
Authors: Jabbour Samer , Nasr Marwan , Kechichian Elio , Aderian Sandrine S. , Nseir Iad , Levan Philippe , Noel Warren
Published: May 2018

Background

The most widely recognized eyebrow model was described by Westmore in 1974. With the rapidly changing concept of beauty, an accurate up‐to‐date model is needed.

Methods

The Westmore model was tested on fashion models that were randomly selected from the covers of the 1965–1975 (group 1) and 2006–2016 (group 2) Vogue magazine. The eyebrows of fashion models, which represent the beauty ideals of these decades, were objectively measured and compared. We proposed a modified eyebrow model more adapted to the modern standards of beauty, applied it to group 2, and objectively compared it to the Westmore model. This new model was validated on a group of randomly selected Caucasian women.

Results

Thirty women were included in each group. The medial edge of the eyebrow was better defined by the Westmore model in group 1 compared to group 2. The lateral edge of the eyebrow was better defined by the Westmore model in group 2. The peak of the eyebrow was not well defined by the Westmore model in both groups. The new model was more adapted than the Westmore model for both the medial edge and the peak of the eyebrow in group 2. It was also accurate in non‐model Caucasian women.

Conclusion

Eyebrow morphology has evolved since the description of the Westmore model. Our model represents a simple way to accurately predict the eyebrow landmarks according to the modern ideals of beauty.
Acquired digital fibrokeratoma: review of its clinical and dermoscopic features and differential diagnosis
Authors: Shih Shawn , Khachemoune Amor
Published: May 2018

Acquired digital fibrokeratoma (ADFK) is a rare, benign, fibrous tumor that most often occurs on fingers. It may resemble a rudimentary supernumerary digit and is often misdiagnosed as another common benign condition, such as common wart. It is typically asymptomatic and occurs as a solitary nodule less than 1 cm in diameter. Oftentimes ADFK shares clinical and/or histologic resemblance with other benign and malignant cutaneous conditions so it is crucial that careful examination is undertaken. In this article, we will discuss the clinical presentation, epidemiology, etiology, dermoscopic and histologic findings, management, and differential diagnoses for ADFK, with the hope that this review will facilitate timely diagnosis and management for this distinct condition.
Chemical characterisation and hypolipidaemic effects of two purified Pleurotus eryngii polysaccharides
Authors: Jin Xing , Wang Qilong , Yang Xia , Guo Min , Li Wenjing , Shi Jixiang , Adu‐Frimpong Michael , Xu Ximing , Deng Wenwen , Yu Jiangnan
Published: May 2018

This study is focused on the isolation and characterisation of two purified polysaccharide fractions (namely PPEP‐1 and PPEP‐2) from Pleurotus eryngii (P. eryngii) and evaluation of their hypolipidaemic effects. The Congo red analysis indicated that PPEP‐2 but not PPEP‐1 possessed a triple‐helix conformation. The atomic force microscope analysis revealed that PPEP‐1 and PPEP‐2 showed different polysaccharide chain conformations. Importantly, the mice treated with PPEP‐1 showed significantly lowered serum levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG) and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐c) and increased high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol when compared with the hyperlipidaemia mice induced by the high‐fat diet. However, PPEP‐2 revealed less hypolipidaemic effect than PPEP‐1. Additionally, both PPEP‐1 and PPEP‐2 demonstrated remarkable hypolipidaemic effects by decreasing levels of serum TC, TG and LDL‐c in the hyperlipidaemic model induced by P‐407. Taken together, our findings suggest that the P. eryngii polysaccharides, especially PPEP‐1, could be developed as a natural functional food supplement for preventing hyperlipidaemia.
Optimization of pre‐analytical heat treatment for inhibitor detection in haemophilia A
Authors: Batty P. , Hart D. P. , Platton S.
Published: May 2018

Introduction

Factor VIII (FVIII) antibody formation is the greatest clinical and laboratory challenge within the haemophilia centre. The Nijmegen‐Bethesda assay (NBA) is the gold standard for inhibitor quantification, but affected by pre‐analytical variables including a patient’s FVIII activity (FVIII:C). Pre‐analytical heat treatment (PHT) provides a methodology for inhibitor testing when measurable FVIII:C is present.

Methods

We evaluated the effect of different PHT conditions (time/temperature) on FVIII:C as well as on potency of inhibitory activity in samples containing FVIII:C (endogenous pooled plasma and exogenous recombinant FVIII (rFL‐FVIII) concentrate) or FVIII inhibitor.

Results

PHT of endogenous FVIII at 37°C, 47°C and 52°C resulted in declining measurable FVIII:C at 120 minutes (69%, 57% and 13% of the original FVIII:C, respectively). Incubation at 56°C resulted in FVIII:C ≤ 1IU/dL after 60 minutes for endogenous FVIII and 120 minutes for rFL‐FVIII. Incubation at 58°C resulted in FVIII:C < 1IU/dL at 15‐30 minutes for endogenous FVIII and at 30‐60 minutes for rFL‐FVIII. No difference was seen for inhibitor detection following PHT (56°C or 58°C) by NBA or anti‐FVIII IgG ELISA.

Conclusion

PHT at 58°C for 30 minutes demonstrated consistent reduction in FVIII:C < 1IU/dL without appearing to affect inhibitor detection. Laboratory awareness of differences in thermostability of different sources of FVIII is important when choosing PHT conditions.
Care provider allocation on admissions to acute mental health wards: The development and validation of the Admission Team Score List
Authors: van den Berg Sjobha R. N. , Stringer Barbara , van de Sande Roland , Draisma Stasja
Published: May 2018

Currently, support tools are lacking to prioritize steps in the care coordination process to enable safe practice and effective clinical pathways in the first phase of acute psychiatric admissions. This study describes the development, validity, and reliability of an acute care coordination support tool, the Admission Team Score List (ATSL). The ATSL assists in care provider allocation during admissions. Face validity and feasibility of the ATSL were tested in 77 acute admissions. Endscores of filled out ATSL's were translated to recommended team compositions. These ATSL team (ATSL‐T) compositions were compared to the actually present team (AP‐T) and the most preferred team (MP‐T) composition in hindsight. Consistency between the ATSL‐T and the MP‐T was substantial; Kw = 0.70, P < 0.001, 95% CI [0.55–0.84]. The consistency between the ATSL‐T and AP‐T was moderate; Kw = 0.43, P < 0.001, 95% CI [0.23–0.62]. The ATSL has an adequate (inter‐rater) reliability; ICC = 0.90, P < 0.001, 95% CI [0.65–0.91]. The ATSL study is an important step to promote safety and efficient care based on care provider allocation, for service users experiencing an acute admission. The ATSL may stimulate structured clinical decision‐making during the hectic process around acute psychiatric admissions.
Development of optical grade polycrystalline YIG ceramics for faraday rotator
Authors: Ikesue Akio , Aung Yan Lin
Published: May 2018

Fully dense and infrared transparent YIG (Y3Fe5O12) ceramics was successfully produced by solid‐state reaction of Y2O3 and Fe2O3 powders. Its relative density reached 99.8% (5.16 g/cm3) after sintered at 1400°C for 3 hours, and almost 100% relative density (5.17 g/cm3) was obtained by additional HIP treatment. It was transparent at wavelength ranges longer than 1100 nm, and its in‐line transmittance (ca. 75%‐77%) was very comparable to that of commercial YIG single crystal especially over 1700 nm. Faraday rotation angle at 1300 and 1550 nm was 224 and 175 deg/cm, respectively, and extinction ratio was 35 dB and insertion loss polarized at 45° was 0.3 dB at 1550 nm. It was confirmed that the Faraday effect of polycrystalline material which has numerous grain boundaries and randomized crystal orientations is analogous to that of the single crystal. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report to achieve highly transparent polycrystalline iron garnet ceramics successfully, and it is expected to use as an optical isolator in optical communication and medical field.
Role of Al3+ on tuning optical properties of Ce3+‐activated borosilicate scintillating glasses prepared in air
Authors: Sun Xin‐Yuan , Xiao Zhuo‐Hao , Wu Yun‐Tao , Yu Xiao‐Guang , Hu Qiang‐Lin , Yuan Yong , Liu Qiang , Struebing Christian , Kang Zhitao
Published: May 2018

A colorless Ce3+‐activated borosilicate scintillating glass enriched with Gd2O3 is successfully synthesized in air atmosphere for the first time. The full replacement of 10 mol% BaO by Al2O3, and the partial substitution of 3 mol% SiO2 by Si3N4 in the designed glass composition are crucial for this success. The role of Al3+ on tuning the optical properties of Ce3+‐activated borosilicate scintillating glass synthesized in air are analyzed by optical transmittance, X‐ray absorption near edge spectroscopy (XANES) spectra, photoluminescence (PL) and radioluminescence (RL) spectra. The results suggest that the stable Ce4+ ions can be effectively reduced to stable Ce3+ ions by the full replacement of BaO by Al2O3, and both the PL andRL intensity of the designed borosilicate scintillating glass are enhanced by a factor of 6.7 and 5.2, respectively. The integral RL intensity of the synthesized Ce3+‐activated borosilicate scintillating glass is ~17.2%BGO, with a light output of about 1180 ph/MeV. The strategy of substituting BaO by Al2O3 will trigger more scientific and technological considerations in designing novel fast scintillating glasses.
Understanding the atomic and electronic origin of mechanical property in thaumasite and ettringite mineral crystals
Authors: San Saro , Li Neng , Tao Yong , Zhang Wenqin , Ching Wai‐Yim
Published: May 2018

Ettringite and thaumasite are 2 of the relevant secondary products in portland cement minerals. They are rare crystals with high water content. Two density functional theory based ab initio packages VASP and the OLCAO were used for exploring the geometry structure, electronic, and mechanical properties of ettringite and thaumasite. The calculations focus on the comparison of their structures and properties to gain insights that can reveal the minute difference in properties due to differences in their structure, composition and water content. Detailed analysis of interatomic bonding shows the similarities and subtle difference between them even though thaumasite has the Si tetrahedron as the backbone unit in contrast to ettringite with Al‐columns and no Si atoms. Moreover, thaumasite has strong C–O bonds that are absent in ettringite, and ettringite has far more water molecules with a substantial contribution from the hydrogen bonding. It is shown that the role played by relatively strong S–O bonds in both crystals has a large impact on the hydration in these crystals. On the basis of calculated total bond order density, it is concluded that thaumasite is slightly more cohesive than ettringite consistent with the calculated mechanical properties. The detailed comparative results for these 2 important minerals we obtained in this paper, many of them for the first time, will pave the way to understanding the structure and electronic structure origin of other more complex cement crystals.
Thin water films and particle morphology evolution in nanocrystalline MgO
Authors: Thomele Daniel , Gheisi Amir R. , Niedermaier Matthias , Elsässer Michael S. , Bernardi Johannes , Grönbeck Henrik , Diwald Oliver
Published: May 2018

A key question in the field of ceramics and catalysis is how and to what extent residual water in the reactive environment of a metal oxide particle powder affects particle coarsening and morphology. With X‐ray Diffraction (XRD) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), we investigated annealing‐induced morphology changes on powders of MgO nanocubes in different gaseous H2O environments. The use of such a model system for particle powders enabled us to describe how adsorbed water that originates from short exposure to air determines the evolution of MgO grain size, morphology, and microstructure. While cubic nanoparticles with a predominant abundance of (100) surface planes retain their shape after annealing to T = 1173 K under continuous pumping with a base pressure of water p(H2O) = 10−5 mbar, higher water partial pressures promote mass transport on the surfaces and across interfaces of such particle systems. This leads to substantial growth and intergrowth of particles and simultaneously favors the formation of step edges and shallow protrusions on terraces. The mass transfer is promoted by thin films of water providing a two‐dimensional solvent for Mg2+ ion hydration. In addition, we obtained direct evidence for hydroxylation‐induced stabilization of (110) faces and step edges of the grain surfaces.
Higher contact force during radiofrequency ablation leads to a much larger increase in edema as compared to chronic lesion size
Authors: Thomas Samuel , Silvernagel Josh , Angel Nathan , Kholmovski Eugene , Ghafoori Elyar , Hu Nan , Ashton John , Dosdall Derek J. , MacLeod Rob , Ranjan Ravi
Published: May 2018

Introduction

Reversible edema is a part of any radiofrequency ablation but its relationship with contact force is unknown. The goal of this study was to characterize through histology and MRI, acute and chronic ablation lesions and reversible edema with contact force.

Methods and results

In a canine model (n = 14), chronic ventricular lesions were created with a 3.5‐mm tip ThermoCool SmartTouch (Biosense Webster) catheter at 25 W or 40 W for 30 seconds. Repeat ablation was performed after 3 months to create a second set of lesions (acute). Each ablation procedure was followed by in vivo T2‐weighted MRI for edema and late‐gadolinium enhancement (LGE) MRI for lesion characterization. For chronic lesions, the mean scar volumes at 25 W and 40 W were 77.8 ± 34.5 mm3 (n = 24) and 139.1 ± 69.7 mm3 (n = 12), respectively. The volume of chronic lesions increased (25 W: P < 0.001, 40 W: P < 0.001) with greater contact force. For acute lesions, the mean volumes of the lesion were 286.0 ± 129.8 mm3 (n = 19) and 422.1 ± 113.1 mm3 (n = 16) for 25 W and 40 W, respectively (P < 0.001 compared to chronic scar). On T2‐weighted MRI, the acute edema volume was on average 5.6–8.7 times higher than the acute lesion volume and increased with contact force (25 W: P = 0.001, 40 W: P = 0.011).

Conclusion

With increasing contact force, there is a marginal increase in lesion size but accompanied with a significantly larger edema. The reversible edema that is much larger than the chronic lesion volume may explain some of the chronic procedure failures.
Electrophysiology and structural interventions in adults with congenital heart disease: Comparison of combined versus separate procedures
Authors: Lindsay Ian , Nik‐Ahd Farnoosh , Aboulhosn Jamil A. , Moore Jeremy P.
Published: May 2018

Background

Electrophysiologic (EP) and structural interventions in adult congenital heart disease (ACHD) are typically completed during separate hospital encounters. With planning/coordination, these cases can be combined.

Objectives

We hypothesized that this integrated approach would yield patient and health system benefits.

Methods

Consecutive ACHD patients undergoing combined interventions were matched to controls with identical but separate procedures. Primary endpoints of total hospital length of stay and cost were compared.

Results

Sixty‐six combined cases and 120 controls were identified (45% male, mean age 36.2 ± 14.2 years). The most common diagnoses were Fontan (27%), tetralogy of Fallot (23%), and transposition complexes (20%). The most common EP procedure was catheter ablation (n = 30) followed by electrophysiologic study (n = 13); the most common structural intervention was transcatheter valve replacement (n = 16) followed by angioplasty/stenting (n = 14). Compared to controls, cases showed shorter anesthesia duration (323 [IQR 238–405] vs. 355 minutes [270–498], P = 0.06), smaller contrast dose (130 [50–189] vs. 177 mL [94–228], P = 0.045), fewer venipunctures (4 [3–4] vs. 6 [5–7], P < 0.001), and fewer work days missed (2 [2–5] vs. 4 [4–6], P < 0.001). There was shorter hospital stay (30 [19–35] vs. 38 hours [26–50], P = 0.023) and a 37% reduction in hospital charges ($117,894 vs. $187,648; P = 0.039) and 27% reduction in payments ($65,757 vs. $88,859; P = 0.016), persisting after adjustment for group differences. There were no significant differences in number of complications or efficacy.

Conclusions

There appear to be advantages to combining ACHD interventional procedures that include reductions in hospital length of stay and cost, without detectable difference in procedural outcome.
Utility of heart rate turbulence and T‐wave alternans to assess risk for readmission and cardiac death in hospitalized heart failure patients
Authors: Yamada Shinya , Yoshihisa Akiomi , Sato Yu , Sato Takamasa , Kamioka Masashi , Kaneshiro Takashi , Oikawa Masayoshi , Kobayashi Atsushi , Suzuki Hitoshi , Ishida Takafumi , Takeishi Yasuchika
Published: May 2018

Background

Heart failure (HF) patients have a higher risk of recurrent HF and cardiac death, and electrical remodeling is considered to be an important factor for HF progression. The present study aimed to validate the utility of electrocardiogram and Holter monitoring for the risk stratification of HF patients.

Methods

Our study comprised 215 patients (144 males, mean age 62 years) who had been hospitalized due to acute decompensated HF. Electrocardiogram (QRS duration and QTc interval) and 24‐hour Holter monitoring (heart rate variability, heart rate turbulence, and T‐wave alternans [TWA]) were performed in stable condition before discharge. The clinical characteristics and outcomes were then investigated.

Results

During a median follow‐up period of 2.7 years, there were 83 (38.6%) cardiac events (rehospitalization due to worsening HF [n = 51] or cardiac death [n = 32]). The patients with cardiac events had a lower turbulence slope (TS) and higher TWA compared to those without cardiac events (TS, 3.0 ± 5.5 ms/RR vs. 5.3 ± 5.6 ms/RR, P = 0.001; TWA, 66.1 ± 19.6 μV vs. 54.7 ± 15.1 μV, P < 0.001). Univariable analysis showed that TS, TWA, QRS duration, and QTc interval were associated with cardiac events (P = 0.004, P < 0.001, P = 0.037, and P = 0.024, respectively), while the multivariable analysis after the adjustment of multiple confounders showed that TS and TWA were independent predictive factors of cardiac events with a hazard ratio of 0.936 and 1.015 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.860–0.974, P = 0.006; and 95% CI: 1.003–1.027, P = 0.016), respectively.

Conclusion

The measurement of TS and TWA is useful for assessing risk for rehospitalization and cardiac death in HF patients.
Predictor factors for long‐term outcomes stability of coronally advanced flap with or without connective tissue graft in the treatment of single maxillary gingival recessions: 9 years results of a randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Rasperini Giulio , Acunzo Raffaele , Pellegrini Gaia , Pagni Giorgio , Tonetti Maurizio , Pini Prato Giovan Paolo , Cortellini Pierpaolo
Published: May 2018

Aim

To assess the clinical outcomes 9 years after the surgical treatment of single maxillary gingival recessions and identify predictors for long‐term gingival margin stability.

Materials and Methods

Twenty‐five gingival recessions (Miller Class I and II) were randomly treated with Coronally Advanced Flap (CAF) plus Connective Tissue Graft (CTG) or CAF alone. Outcomes included complete root coverage (CRC), recession reduction (REC), keratinized tissue (KT) gain and dentin hypersensitivity, and were evaluated at 6 months, 1 and 9 years. Multilevel analysis was performed to identify predictors for long‐term gingival margin stability.

Results

Baseline gingival recession was 2.4 ± 0.8 mm and 2.4 ± 1.0 mm in the CAF + CTG and in the CAF‐treated sites, respectively (p = 0.693). The chance to gain and preserve CRC over time is equal to 70% in the CAF + CTG group (Relative Risk [RR] = 1.70, 95% CI [0.84–3.45]; adjusted RR = 1.48, 95% CI [0.61–3.62]). Using the CTG, an increase in KT was recorded 9 years after the surgery (p = 0.019). An OR of 0.12 (p = 0.022) of not achieving CRC was observed in cases with non‐carious cervical lesions (NCCL) compared to cases without NCCL.

Conclusion

Both treatment modalities demonstrated stability over time. Additional use of CTG provided a greater increase in KT. The presence of NCCL negatively affected CRC and REC.
Serum high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol is a protective predictor of executive function in older patients with diabetes mellitus
Authors: Sun Yue , Lee Jenny , Ma Ronald C , Kwok Timothy
Published: May 2018

Aims/Introduction

Older people with diabetes mellitus are at high risk for cognitive impairment or dementia. The clinical predictors for cognitive decline in older people with diabetes mellitus were elucidated.

Materials and Methods

This was a secondary analysis of a vitamin B12 intervention trial in older people with diabetes mellitus. A total of 271 non‐demented individuals were followed up at 9‐month intervals for 27 months. We explored the association between baseline clinical features with changes in cognitive measures (Clinical Dementia Rating scale, Neuropsychological Test Battery including executive function z‐scores, psychomotor speed z‐scores and memory z‐scores).

Results

A total of 152 participants had normal cognition (Clinical Dementia Rating 0) and 119 had cognitive impairment (Clinical Dementia Rating 0.5) at baseline. After 27 months, 41 participants had cognitive decline, 36 of whom were cognitively normal at baseline. Multiple logistic regression showed no significant clinical predictor of global cognitive decline. Higher high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C) was associated with better executive performance at month 27 (β = 0.359, P < 0.001). Multilevel modeling showed that the highest tertile of HDL‐C was associated with better executive function z‐scores than the lowest tertile of HDL‐C at all time‐points.

Conclusions

Among older people with diabetes mellitus, higher serum HDL‐C was associated with better executive function.
Abiotic factors affecting Diachasmimorpha longicaudata (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) activity as a natural enemy of Ceratitis capitata (Diptera: Tephritidae) under semi‐natural conditions in the Mediterranean region
Authors: Harbi A. , Beitia F. , Chermiti B. , de Pedro L. , Ferrara F. , Asís J. D. , Polidori C. , Tormos J. , Sabater‐Muñoz B.
Published: May 2018

The larval–pupal endoparasitoid Diachasmimorpha longicaudata (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) is currently the most commonly employed biological control agent against Tephritid fruit flies in the Americas. However, this parasitoid remains largely ignored and is not used in many regions, including the Mediterranean Basin. In this study, the potential of D. longicaudata as a biocontrol agent against the Mediterranean fruit fly (medfly) Ceratitis capitata (Diptera: Tephritidae) was addressed in an area of eastern Spain (the Valencian community). The parasitic activity of parasitoids and the effects of climatic conditions were evaluated throughout a 1‐year period in field‐cage experiments in which parasitoids were confined with apples artificially infested with medfly larvae. The following parameters were calculated and related statistically to several environmental conditions: the parasitism rate, the induced mortality and progeny sex ratio. The results show that D. longicaudata is able to parasitize medfly larvae throughout the year under semi‐natural conditions. Important fluctuations in the parasitism rate (from almost zero to 42%) and the induced mortality (from 6% to 80%) were partially influenced by climatic conditions. The parasitism rate increased with mean temperature and decreased with mean relative humidity, while the induced mortality decreased with minimum relative humidity. The optimal climatic conditions for the activity of the parasitoid were a mean temperature of 16–24°C combined with a relative humidity of 45%–60%. Overall, these results suggest that reduction in the medfly population due to D. longicaudata activity is feasible and provide information about the optimal time period for parasitoid release in the field. In conclusion, D. longicaudata has a significant potential to control C. capitata in the Mediterranean region.