bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identifying the determinants of tree distributions along a large ephemeral river
Authors: Douglas Caitlin M. S. , Cowlishaw Guy , Harrison Xavier A. , Henschel Joh R. , Pettorelli Nathalie , Mulligan Mark
Published: June 2018

Although ephemeral rivers act as linear oases and play a fundamental role in sustaining regional biodiversity in dryland regions, little is known about these systems or their sensitivity to human impacts. Without such knowledge, it is difficult to manage or conserve them. Here, we conduct the first systematic investigation into the determinants of riparian tree distributions along a large ephemeral river. Adopting a macroecological approach, we test four hypotheses relating to the effects of topography, river flow, climate, and land tenure on three indices of tree distribution: species richness, occupancy, and recruitment. We also consider the effect of upstream damming. Our study site is the Swakop River in Namibia. The most common trees along the river were the invasive Prosopis spp., followed by native Faidherbia albida, Vachellia erioloba, Euclea pseudebenus, and Vachellia tortilis. We found a gradient in tree distributions along the river, with a drier climate westward associated with lower native tree species richness and increased scarcity of the dominant native species (F. albida). These patterns were seen in both pre‐ and post‐dam samples. We also found F. albida was more likely to recruit immediately downstream of tributaries. Our results suggest that water availability (climate and river flow) is a more important determination of tree distribution along this ephemeral river than topography or land tenure and that ephemeral rivers may show a nodal organization.
Quantifying relative importance: computing standardized effects in models with binary outcomes
Authors: Grace James B. , Johnson Darren J. , Lefcheck Jonathan S. , Byrnes Jarrett E. K.
Published: June 2018

Scientists commonly ask questions about the relative importance of processes and then turn to statistical models for answers. Standardized coefficients are typically used in such situations, with the goal being to compare effects on a common scale. Traditional approaches to obtaining standardized coefficients were developed with idealized Gaussian variables in mind. When responses are binary, complications arise that impact standardization methods. In this paper, we review, evaluate, and propose new methods for standardizing coefficients from models that contain binary outcomes. We first consider the interpretability of unstandardized coefficients and then examine two main approaches to standardization. One approach, which we refer to as the latent‐theoretical (LT) method, assumes that underlying binary observations, there exists a latent, continuous propensity linearly related to the coefficients. A second approach, which we refer to as the observed‐empirical (OE) method, assumes responses are purely discrete and estimates error variance empirically via reference to a classicalR2estimator. We also evaluate the standard formula for calculating standardized coefficients based on standard deviations. Criticisms of this practice have been persistent, leading us to propose an alternative formula that is based on user‐defined “relevant ranges.” Finally, we implement all of the above in an open‐source package for the statistical software R. Results from simulation studies show that both theLTandOEmethods of standardization support a similarly broad range of coefficient comparisons. TheLTmethod estimates effects that reflect underlying latent‐linear propensities, while theOEmethod computes a linear approximation for the effects of predictors on binary responses. The contrast between assumptions for the two methods is reflected in persistently weaker standardized effects associated withOEstandardization. Reliance on standard deviations for standardization (the traditional approach) is critically examined and shown to introduce substantial biases when predictors are non‐Gaussian. The use of relevant ranges in place of standard deviations has the capacity to placeLTandOEstandardized coefficients on a more comparable scale. As ecologists address increasingly complex hypotheses, especially those that comparing the influences of different controlling factors (e.g., top‐down vs. bottom‐up or biotic vs. abiotic controls), comparable coefficients become necessary for evaluations.
Sex‐ and age‐based differences in the natural history and outcome of dilated cardiomyopathy
Authors: Halliday Brian P. , Gulati Ankur , Ali Aamir , Newsome Simon , Lota Amrit , Tayal Upasana , Vassiliou Vassilios S. , Arzanauskaite Monika , Izgi Cemil , Krishnathasan Kaushiga , Singhal Arvind , Chiew Kayla , Gregson John , Frenneaux Michael P. , Cook Stuart A. , Pennell Dudley J. , Collins Peter , Cleland John G.F. , Prasad Sanjay K.
Published: June 2018

Aim

To evaluate the relationship between sex, age and outcome in dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM).

Methods and results

We used proportional hazard modelling to examine the association between sex, age and all‐cause mortality in consecutive patients with DCM. Overall, 881 patients (290 women, median age 52 years) were followed for a median of 4.9 years. Women were more likely to present with heart failure (64.0% vs. 54.5%; P = 0.007) and had more severe symptoms (P < 0.0001) compared to men. Women had smaller left ventricular end‐diastolic volume (125 mL/m2 vs. 135 mL/m2; P < 0.001), higher left ventricular ejection fraction (40.2% vs. 37.9%; P = 0.019) and were less likely to have mid‐wall late gadolinium enhancement (23.0% vs. 38.9%; P < 0.0001). During follow‐up, 149 (16.9%) patients died, including 41 (4.7%) who died suddenly. After adjustment, all‐cause mortality [hazard ratio (HR) 0.61, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.41–0.92; P = 0.018] was lower in women, with similar trends for cardiovascular (HR 0.60, 95% CI 0.35–1.05; P = 0.07), non‐sudden (HR 0.63, 95% CI 0.39–1.02; P = 0.06) and sudden death (HR 0.70, 95% CI 0.30–1.63; P = 0.41). All‐cause mortality (per 10 years: HR 1.36, 95% CI 1.20–1.55; P < 0.0001) and non‐sudden death (per 10 years: HR 1.51, 95% CI 1.26–1.82; P < 0.00001) increased with age. Cumulative incidence curves confirmed favourable outcomes, particularly in women and those <60 years. Increased all‐cause mortality in patients >60 years of age was driven by non‐sudden death.

Conclusion

Women with DCM have better survival compared to men, which may partly be due to less severe left ventricular dysfunction and a smaller scar burden. There is increased mortality driven by non‐sudden death in patients >60 years of age that is less marked in women. Outcomes with contemporary treatment were favourable, with a low incidence of sudden death.
TiO2@C Nanostructured Electrodes for the Anodic Removal of Cocaine
Authors: Sanz Germán , Ferreira Garcia Luane , Yepez Alfonso , Colletes de Carvalho Thays , Gontijo Vaz Boniek , Romão Wanderson , Ivars‐Barcelo Francisco , de Souza Gil Eric , Luque Rafael
Published: June 2018

The generalization use of therapeutic and illicit drugs are introducing new several chemical pollutants in water. They have been detected in water and sewage samples worldwide, hence they are considered as emerging pollutants. The increase of water threats has a negative impact on the life quality and human health. Among the illicit drugs, cocaine and derivatives are increasingly present, making efficient detection and elimination of wastewater highly prioritaire. In that sense, the main core of this work is the assessment of a novel cost‐efficient electrochemical method based on substrate electro‐oxidation (EO) using low‐cost anodes based on common graphite modified with TiO2 nanosized particles incorporated on the surface by assisted microwave deposition. Two different diameters (2 and 5 nm) of nanostructured TiO2@C anodes were tested for cocaine EO reaction using three different electrolytic solutions (NaCl 50 mM, Na2SO4 50 mM or Na2SO4 100 mM). In all cases, the electrochemical oxidation of cocaine appears to be a combination of hypsochromic and hyperchromic processes. Reaching ca. 90 % degradation after 10 minutes for all electrodes, an enhanced efficiency was especially observed for the system with higher cylindrical diameter and NaCl salt medium. The differential pulse (DP) voltammogram, carried out with all assay solutions after 10 minutes of anodic remediation at both electrodes, exhibited an anodic peak consistent with catechol like compounds.
Physical sedimentary controls on subtropical coastal and shelf sedimentary systems: Initial application in conceptual models and computer visualizations to support archaeology
Authors: Larcombe P. , Ward I. A. K. , Whitley T.
Published: June 2018

Advances in digital spatial analysis and 3D photorealistic modeling offer the potential to create virtual interpretations of the now inundated landscapes of NW Australia. While this provides a useful template for potential late Pleistocene and early Holocene coastal occupation on the shelf, we stress the importance of understanding sediment dynamics as a primary control for terrain modelling, particularly at the scale of human ecosystem dynamics. We briefly review six major drivers of change upon tropical and semi‐tropical continental shelves and coastlines, and some of the typical coastal geomorphologies associated with each. We then hypothesize how these drivers might have varied on the NW Shelf of Australia since 65 ka, and then apply the logic to the Barrow Island region, to form some “end‐member” visualizations of coastal change in the early Holocene. The visualizations indicate a high degree of variability in coastal morphology, particularly through the post‐glacial period, which is likely to have radically changed the capacity of the coastline to provide resources for human use during that period. Hence, rather than considering any single visualization as being absolute, end‐member visualizations should be used to generate testable hypotheses that are reviewed repeatedly in the light of new physical, environmental, and archaeological information.
Analysis of pedigree data in populations with multiple ancestries: Strategies for dealing with admixture in Caribbean Hispanic families from the ADSP
Authors: Nafikov Rafael A. , Nato Alejandro Q. , Sohi Harkirat , Wang Bowen , Brown Lisa , Horimoto Andrea R. , Vardarajan Badri N. , Barral Sandra M. , Tosto Giuseppe , Mayeux Richard P. , Thornton Timothy A. , Blue Elizabeth , Wijsman Ellen M.
Published: June 2018

Multipoint linkage analysis is an important approach for localizing disease‐associated loci in pedigrees. Linkage analysis, however, is sensitive to misspecification of marker allele frequencies. Pedigrees from recently admixed populations are particularly susceptible to this problem because of the challenge of accurately accounting for population structure. Therefore, increasing emphasis on use of multiethnic samples in genetic studies requires reevaluation of best practices, given data currently available. Typical strategies have been to compute allele frequencies from the sample, or to use marker allele frequencies determined by admixture proportions averaged over the entire sample. However, admixture proportions vary among pedigrees and throughout the genome in a family‐specific manner. Here, we evaluate several approaches to model admixture in linkage analysis, providing different levels of detail about ancestral origin. To perform our evaluations, for specification of marker allele frequencies, we used data on 67 Caribbean Hispanic admixed families from the Alzheimer's Disease Sequencing Project. Our results show that choice of admixture model has an effect on the linkage analysis results. Variant‐specific admixture proportions, computed for individual families, provide the most detailed regional admixture estimates, and, as such, are the most appropriate allele frequencies for linkage analysis. This likely decreases the number of false‐positive results, and is straightforward to implement.
Adverse outcome of AML with aberrant CD16 and CD56 NK cell marker expression
Authors: Junge Alexandra , Bacher Ulrike , Mueller Beatrice U. , Keller Peter , Solenthaler Max , Pabst Thomas
Published: June 2018

Natural killer cells mediate antibody‐dependent cell‐mediated cytotoxicity, and CD16 exerts key functions to induce antibody‐dependent cell‐mediated cytotoxicity response. Because the prognostic relevance of aberrant CD16 expression in AML patients at diagnosis is unknown, we analyzed 325 AML patients undergoing intensive chemotherapy for aberrant CD16+ and CD56+ natural killer‐cell marker expression. CD56+ AML patients had inferior median event‐free (EFS; P = 0.0699) and overall survival (OS; 10.9 versus 20.6 months; P = 0.0132). Patients expressing CD16 had worse median EFS (P = 0.0622) and OS (13.0 versus 45.9 months; P = 0.0277). EFS for CD16+/CD56+ patients was 5.7 months compared with 7.1 months for CD16−/CD56− (P = 0.3690), and OS was 10.6 months for CD16+/CD56+ patients compared with 52.2 months for CD16−/CD56− patients (P = 0.0311). Patients with CD16+/CD56+ expression had a lower probability to achieve complete remission after 2 induction cycles (52% versus 72%). Our data suggest that AML patients with aberrant CD16 and CD56 expression have adverse survival outcomes.
Rheumatoid arthritis and lymphoma: Incidence, pathogenesis, biology, and outcome
Authors: Klein Alina , Polliack Aaron , Gafter‐Gvili Anat
Published: June 2018

Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have a greater risk of developing both Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) and non‐HL than the general population. Non‐Hodgkin lymphoma is more common than HL in these patients, and diffuse large B cell lymphoma is the most frequent subtype observed. Although the clinical course of lymphoma in RA is often aggressive, the prognosis in these cases is similar to that of lymphoma in the general population. In this review, we summarize data derived from both retrospective and prospective studies, regarding incidence, pathogenesis, and outcome of lymphomas in RA patients and outline the possible mechanisms and hypotheses linking these 2 disorders. Over the years, 3 main theories have been suggested to explain this association. These hypotheses relate to genetic predisposition, persistence of long standing disease activity with continued immune stimulation, and the role of anti‐RA therapy given. A common genetic predisposition linking RA and lymphoma has not been established. As for treatment of RA, this includes immunosuppressive antitumor necrosis factor drugs or conventional disease modifying antirheumatic drugs like methotrexate. Neither of these drug categories appears to be associated with a higher risk of lymphoma in RA. The impact of continuing disease activity and immune stimulation appears to be the most significant in lymphomagenesis in these patients.
Clinical oversight and the avoidance of repeat induced abortion
Authors: Jacovetty Erica L. , Clare Camille A. , Squire Mary‐Beatrice , Kubal Keshar P. , Liou Sherry , Inchiosa Mario A.
Published: June 2018

Objective

To evaluate the impact of patient counseling, demographics, and contraceptive methods on repeat induced abortion in women attending family planning clinics.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of repeat induced abortions was performed. The analysis included patients with an initial induced abortion obtained between January 1, 2001, and March 31, 2014, at New York City Health + Hospitals/Metropolitan. The duration of involvement in the family planning program, the use of contraceptive interventions, and 18 patient factors were analyzed for their correlation with the incidence of repeat induced abortions per year of follow‐up.

Results

A decreased rate of repeat induced abortions was associated with a longer duration of clinical oversight (r2=0.449, P<0.001), a higher contraceptive efficacy score (r=0.280, P=0.025), and a larger number of clinic visits for contraception (r=0.333, P=0.007).

Conclusion

A continuum of contact with all of the services of a family planning clinic demonstrated a strong efficacy to limit repeat induced abortions. By determining the patient characteristics that most influence repeat induced abortion rates, providers can best choose the most efficacious method of contraception available.
Artificial light at night prolongs juvenile development time in the black field cricket, Teleogryllus commodus
Authors: Durrant Joanna , Botha L. Michael , Green Mark P. , Jones Therésa M.
Published: June 2018

A growing body of evidence exists to support a detrimental effect of the presence of artificial light at night (ALAN) on life‐history and fitness traits. However, few studies simultaneously investigate multiple traits and the life stages at which changes manifest. We experimentally manipulated ALAN intensities, within those found in the natural environment, to explore the consequences for growth, survival, and reproductive success of the field cricket, Teleogryllus commodus. We reared crickets from egg to adult under a daily light‐cycle consisting of 12 hr bright daylight (2,600 lx) followed by either 12 hr darkness (0 lx) or dim‐light environments (1, 10, or 100 lx). We found egg hatch, adult survival, and reproductive measures were largely comparable for all treatments. However, juvenile development time (number of days from egg to adult) was on average 10 days (14%) longer and adults were also larger when crickets were exposed to any light at night (1, 10, or 100 lx). Our data demonstrate that chronic lifetime exposure to ALAN can modulate the timing of life‐history events and may disrupt phenology to a similar extent as other abiotic factors.
Profiling: The Efficacy of Using Social Networking Sites for Job Screening
Authors: Evuleocha Stevina U. , Ugbah Steve D.
Published: June 2018

Social networking sites (SNS) are a rich source of extractive information about job applicants. Human resources (HR) professionals now use SNS to gather additional information about job applicants; consequently, job applicants begin interviewing even before the actual interview. The authors examine SNS in the context of hiring decisions, using uncertainty reduction theory as a framework of analysis to explain how individuals obtain and process information about interpersonal relationships to reduce uncertainty before a face‐to‐face meeting. The authors recommend mandatory training for HR professionals, recruiters, and applicants in the strategic use and placement of SNS profiles in the public domain.
Space‐time as a structured relativistic continuum
Authors: Sławianowski J. J. , Kovalchuk V. , Gołubowska B. , Martens A. , Rożko E. E.
Published: June 2018

There are various models of gravitation: the metrical Hilbert‐Einstein theory, a wide class of intrinsically Lorentz‐invariant tetrad theories (generally covariant in the space‐time sense), and many gauge models based on various internal symmetry groups (Lorentz, Poincare,
, etc). The gauge models are usually preferred but nevertheless it is an interesting idea to develop the class of
‐invariant (or rather
‐invariant) tetrad (n‐leg) generally covariant models. This is done below and motivated by our idea of bringing back to life the Thales of Miletus concept of affine symmetry. Formally, the obtained scheme is a generally covariant tetrad (n‐leg) model, but it turns out that generally covariant and intrinsically affinely invariant models must have a kind of nonaccidental Born‐Infeld‐like structure. Let us also mention that they, being based on tetrads (n‐legs), have many features common with continuous defect theories. It is interesting that they possess some group‐theoretical solutions and more general spherically symmetric solutions, discussion of which is the main new result presented in this paper, including the applications of the 't Hooft‐Polyakov monopoles in the generally covariant theories, which enables us to find some rigorous solutions of our strongly nonlinear equations. It is also interesting that within such a framework, the normal‐hyperbolic signature of the space‐time metric is not introduced by hand but appears as a kind of solution, rather integration constants, of differential equations. Let us mention that our Born‐Infeld scheme is more general than alternative tetrad models. It may be also used within more general schemes, including also the gauge ones.
The associations of occupational hazards and injuries with work environments and overtime for nurses in China
Authors: Wu Yan , Zheng Jing , Liu Ke , Baggs Judith G. , Liu Jiali , Liu Xu , You Liming
Published: June 2018

Occupational hazards (OHs) and occupational injuries (OIs) may contribute to nurses needing sick time and to a high financial burden for hospitals. There is little published literature about nurse‐reported OHs/OIs and their relationships with work environments and working overtime in China. This study was designed to describe Chinese hospital registered nurses’ OHs/OIs and to explore the associations between work environments, working overtime, and nurse‐reported OHs/OIs. This cross‐sectional study was conducted in Guangdong province in China in 2014. The sample included 1,517 nurses from 111 medical/surgical units in 23 hospitals. The Practice Environment Scale of the Nursing Work Index was used to measure work environment. Overtime was calculated by subtracting scheduled work hours from actual work hours. Six items were used to measure nurse‐reported OHs/OIs. Descriptive statistics, Chi‐square tests, and two‐level logistic regression models were used to analyze the data. The percentages of nurses reporting OHs/OIs occurred in the year before the survey ranged from 47% to 80%. Nurses who worked in good (vs. poor) unit work environments were less likely to experience OHs/OIs (Odds ratio [OR] = 0.65–0.68, p < .05). Nurses who worked overtime (OR = 1.19–1.33, p < .05) and in Level 3 (largest) hospitals (OR = 1.45–1.80, p < .05) were more likely to experience OHs/OIs. We found that OHs/OIs were prevalent among hospital nurses in China. Better work environment and less nurse overtime were associated with fewer nurse OHs/OIs.
Methodologic limitations of prescription opioid safety research and recommendations for improving the evidence base
Authors: Ranapurwala Shabbar I. , Naumann Rebecca B. , Austin Anna E. , Dasgupta Nabarun , Marshall Stephen W.
Published: June 2018

Purpose

The ongoing opioid epidemic has claimed more than a quarter million Americans' lives over the past 15 years. The epidemic began with an escalation of prescription opioid deaths and has now evolved to include secondary waves of illicit heroin and fentanyl deaths, while the deaths due to prescription opioid overdoses are still increasing. In response, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) moved to limit opioid prescribing with the release of opioid prescribing guidelines for chronic noncancer pain in March 2016. The guidelines represent a logical and timely federal response to this growing crisis. However, CDC acknowledged that the evidence base linking opioid prescribing to opioid use disorders and overdose was grades 3 and 4.

Methods

Motivated by the need to strengthen the evidence base, this review details limitations of the opioid safety studies cited in the CDC guidelines with a focus on methodological limitations related to internal and external validity.

Results

Internal validity concerns were related to poor confounding control, variable misclassification, selection bias, competing risks, and potential competing interventions. External validity concerns arose from the use of limited source populations, historical data (in a fast‐changing epidemic), and issues with handling of cancer and acute pain patients' data. We provide a nonexhaustive list of 7 recommendations to address these limitations in future opioid safety studies.

Conclusion

Strengthening the opioid safety evidence base will aid any future revisions of the CDC guidelines and enhance their prevention impact.
Safety of repeated doses of tetanus toxoid, reduced diphtheria toxoid, and acellular pertussis vaccine in adults and adolescents
Authors: Jackson Michael L. , Yu Onchee , Nelson Jennifer C. , Nordin James D. , Tartof Sara Y. , Klein Nicola P. , Donahue James G. , Irving Stephanie A. , Glanz Jason M. , McNeil Michael M. , Jackson Lisa A.
Published: June 2018

In light of waning immunity to pertussis following receipt of tetanus toxoid, reduced diphtheria toxoid and acellular pertussis (Tdap) vaccine, maintaining protection may require repeated Tdap vaccination. We evaluated the safety of repeated doses of tetanus‐containing vaccine in 68 915 nonpregnant adolescents and adults in the Vaccine Safety Datalink population who had received an initial dose of Tdap. Compared with 7521 subjects who received a subsequent dose of tetanus toxoid, reduced diphtheria (Td) vaccine, the 61 394 subjects who received a subsequent dose of Tdap did not have significantly elevated risk of medical visits for seizure, cranial nerve disorders, limb swelling, pain in limb, cellulitis, paralytic syndromes, or encephalopathy/encephalitis/meningitis. These results suggest that repeated Tdap vaccination has acceptable safety relative to Tdap vaccination followed by Td vaccination.
Semiparametric statistical analysis of the blade tip timing data for detection of turbine rotor speed instabilities
Authors: Brabec Marek , Prochazka Pavel , Maturkanic Dusan
Published: June 2018

In this paper, we propose an extension of an existing standard approach to the blade tip timing data when analyzing turbine rotor vibrations. Instabilities related to the non‐constant trigonometric coefficients at prominent frequencies might not be noticed in the traditional analyses. Our methodology is based on time‐varying coefficient statistical models, and hence it allows a full formalization of the estimation and other inferential tasks (uncertainty assessments, hypothesis tests etc.). First, we formulate a univariate generalized additive model that is useful for investigation of vibration behavior of individual blades. It can extract trajectories of the trigonometric coefficients. Using the trajectories, one can investigate time changes of power at a given frequency. In the second approach, we use a multivariate model for simultaneous assessment of all of the rotor blades. The model acknowledges similarity of the vibration behavior of closely located blades. It is formulated as a state‐space model, and hence it allows for a wide range of prediction, smoothing, and filtering tasks. We illustrate the performance and practical usefulness of our models on real blade tip timing turbine monitoring data obtained from the Czech nuclear power plant Temelin.
Who produces knowledge? Transforming undergraduate students’ views of science through participatory action research
Authors: Weinberg Andrea E. , Trott Carlie D. , Sample McMeeking Laura B.
Published: June 2018

Undergraduate research experiences (UREs) that include interdisciplinary, engagement‐oriented, and collaborative experiences have the potential to benefit students in unique ways. Through these innovative experiences, students are able to see the social impact and importance of their work—a factor known to strengthen the academic and career persistence of students traditionally underrepresented in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. In the present study, students assumed simultaneous roles as students, interdisciplinary researchers, and community liaisons as they facilitated a community‐engaged participatory research project. Using interpretive phenomenological analysis, we explore students’ evolving perspectives of knowledge generation and social change processes before, during, and after the URE. Findings emphasize participants’ altered views of the respective roles of academic researchers and community members in generating knowledge, the value of interdisciplinary research, and the potential of innovative UREs to foster positive change—in academic and community contexts.
Investigation of Structural, Vibrational Properties and Electronic Structure of Fluorene‐9‐Bisphenol: A DFT Approach
Authors: Kotiloğlu Selin Özkan , Çelik Sibel , Tanış Emine , Kurban Mustafa
Published: June 2018

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical used in a variety of materials and has adverse effects on endocrine system. The substitutes of BPA have been developed to produce BPA‐free plastics. Fluorene‐9‐bisphenol (BPFL), has anti‐oestrogenic effects, is one of those substitutes used in ‘BPA‐free’ bottles. In this study, the physical, electronic and vibrational properties of BPFL molecule are investigated using density functional theory (DFT) calculations at B3LYP/6‐311G (d, p) basis set. Bond distances, Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) spectra, natural atomic charges, solvation energies, dipole moments and vibrational frequencies were carried out. The calculated bond distance for the optimized geometry of BPFL obtained from DFT calculations were compared with the measured results. Structural properties like radial distribution function (RDF) and probability distribution depending on coordination number have been calculated for the molecule. Ultraviolet–visible (UV‐Vis) spectra characteristics and the electronic features, such as absorption wavelengths, frontier orbitals, excitation energies and band gap energy of BPFL were also recorded using time‐dependent (TD) DFT approach based on optimized structure with different solvent environments. Finally, we investigated the effects of solvents on structural, electronic and vibrational frequencies of BPFL molecule.
Synthesis of CuxS Thin Films with Tunable Localized Surface Plasmon Resonances
Authors: Kalanur Shankara S , Seo Hyungtak
Published: June 2018

In this work, we report the fabrication of copper sulfide (CuS, Cu1.39S, and Cu2S) thin films with tunable localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR). The thin films were synthesized by keeping the Cu precursor concentration constant and varying that of sodium thiosulfate, which dictated the final CuxS product. CuS showed the highest intensity LSPR peak and its intensity decreased with the increasing incorporation of Cu, as in the case of Cu1.39S, and vanished for the Cu‐rich Cu2S, indicating carrier concentration‐dependent plasmonic absorption. The shift in the XRD peak positions towards a lower degree and the increase in the d‐spacing values for CuS indicated the intercalation of Cu species in the initial covellite lattice, yielding Cu1.39S and Cu2S in the process. XPS valence band edge studies revealed that among the synthesized CuxS thin films, CuS showed a stronger p‐type as compared to Cu1.39S and Cu2S.
Dual‐Functional NaCl Template Strategy towards Synthesis of Metal‐Free Sulfur/nitrogen co‐Doped Carbon Nanosheets Catalysts for Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Chen Changli , Ma Jun , Yu Yue , Xiao Dejian , Luo Qiaomei , Ma Jie , Liao Yi , Zuo Xia
Published: June 2018

Developing eco‐friendly, high‐efficiency and cost‐effective catalysts for oxygen reduction reaction are significantly crucial for the application of direct‐methanol fuel cells. The metal‐free sulfur/nitrogen in‐situ co‐doped carbon nanosheets are prepared through polymerization process and carbonization process using aniline as a nitrogen source, 4‐aminobenzenesulfonamide as a sulfur source and NaCl as a template and protective layer. The obtained catalysts show the obvious two dimensional nanosheet structure with successful doping of S and N. Benefiting from high contents of S atoms and N atom, high special surface area and graphitic degree, well‐ordered micropores and synergetic interaction between thiophenic‐S, pyridinic N and graphitic N, the optimal catalyst S3/N‐CNS800 shows excellent oxygen reduction performance with 13.2 mV more positive half‐wave potential than that of 20% Pt/C, superior long‐term durability and tolerance to methanol crossover.
Catalysts Based on Earth‐Abundant Metals for Visible Light‐Driven Water Oxidation Reaction
Authors: Lin Junqi , Han Qing , Ding Yong
Published: June 2018

Exploration of water oxidation catalyst (WOC) with excellent performance is the key for the overall water splitting reaction, which is a feasible strategy to convert solar energy to chemical energy. Although some compounds composed of noble metals, mainly Ru and Ir, have been reported to catalyze water oxidation with high efficiency, catalysts based on low‐cost and earth‐abundant transition metals are essential for realizing economical and large‐scale light‐driven water splitting. Various WOCs containing earth‐abundant metals (mainly Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu) have been utilized for visible light‐driven water oxidation in recent years. In this Personal Account, we summarize our recent developments in WOCs based on earth‐abundant transition metals including polyoxometalates (POMs), metal oxides or bimetal oxides, and metal complexes containing multidentate ligand scaffolds for visible light‐driven water oxidation reaction.
Role of Adjuvant Chemoradiotherapy for Duodenal Cancer: An Updated Analysis of Long‐Term Follow‐Up from Single Institution
Authors: Jang Bum‐Sup , Park Hae Jin , Kim Kyubo , Jang Jin‐Young , Kim Sun Whe , Oh Do‐Youn , Chie Eui Kyu
Published: June 2018

Background

There are only limited data on the failure patterns after surgical resection for duodenal cancer, and the role of adjuvant chemoradiotherapy (CRT) also remains controversial. In this study, the treatment outcomes of surgery alone were compared to those of surgery plus adjuvant CRT for duodenal cancer.

Methods

Between January 1991 and February 2013, a total of 47 patients with duodenal cancer had pancreaticoduodenectomy, and their age ranged from 31 to 80 (median 62). Twenty‐five patients (53%) underwent surgery alone, while 22 (47%) underwent surgery plus adjuvant CRT. Postoperative radiotherapy with concomitant 5‐fluorouracil was given to tumor bed and regional lymph nodes up to 40–55.4 Gy. Median duration of follow‐up was 31 months (range 6–286) for all patients and 90 months (range 14–286) for survivors.

Results

CRT (+) group included more patients with advanced nodal stage and overall stage group (p = 0.003 and 0.002, respectively). The 5‐year overall survival rates were not different between CRT (−) and CRT (+) groups (50.1 vs. 46.7%, p = 0.794). CRT (+) group achieved a superior 5‐year loco‐regional relapse‐free survival rate compared with CRT (−) group, but the difference did not reach a statistical significance (80.1 vs. 68.4%, p = 0.267). On multivariate analysis, however, the addition of CRT was the only favorable prognosticator predicting loco‐regional relapse‐free survival (p = 0.046). Two patients experienced grade 3 neutropenia during CRT.

Conclusions

Adjuvant CRT after pancreaticoduodenectomy was correlated with an improved loco‐regional control in duodenal cancer. Considering the high loco‐regional recurrence in surgery alone group, CRT may be considered as adjuvant treatment.
Lipids and synaptic functions
Authors: Mochel Fanny
Published: June 2018

Synaptic functions have long been thought to be driven by proteins, especially the SNARE complex, contrasting with a relatively passive role for lipids constituting cell membranes. It is now clear that not only lipids, i.e. glycerophospholipids, sphingolipids and sterols, play a determinant role in the dynamics of synaptic membranes but they also actively contribute to the endocytosis and exocytosis of synaptic vesicles in conjunction with synaptic proteins. On the other hand, a growing number of inborn errors of metabolism affecting the nervous system have been related to defects in the synthesis and remodelling of fatty acids, phospholipids and sphingolipids. Alterations of the metabolism of these lipids would be expected to affect the dynamics of synaptic membranes and synaptic vesicles. Still, only few examples are currently documented. It remains to be determined to which extent the pathophysiology of disorders of complex lipids biosynthesis and remodelling share common pathogenic mechanisms with the more traditional synaptopathies.
Polycystic kidney features of the renal pathology in glycogen storage disease type I: possible evolution to renal neoplasia
Authors: Gjorgjieva Monika , Monteillet Laure , Calderaro Julien , Mithieux Gilles , Rajas Fabienne
Published: June 2018

Glycogen storage disease type I (GSDI) is a rare genetic pathology characterized by glucose‐6 phosphatase (G6Pase) deficiency, translating in hypoglycemia during short fasts. Besides metabolic perturbations, GSDI patients develop long‐term complications, especially chronic kidney disease (CKD). In GSDI patients, CKD is characterized by an accumulation of glycogen and lipids in kidneys, leading to a gradual decline in renal function. At a molecular level, the activation of the renin‐angiotensin system is responsible for the development of renal fibrosis, eventually leading to renal failure. The same CKD phenotype was observed in a mouse model with a kidney‐specific G6Pase deficiency (K.G6pc−/− mice). Furthermore, GSDI patients and mice develop frequently renal cysts at late stages of the nephropathy, classifying GSDI as a potential polycystic kidney disease (PKD). PKDs are genetic disorders characterized by multiple renal cyst formation, frequently caused by the loss of expression of polycystic kidney genes, such as PKD1/2 and PKHD1. Interestingly, these genes are deregulated in K.G6pc−/− kidneys, suggesting their possible role in GSDI cystogenesis. Finally, renal cysts are known to predispose to renal malignancy development. In addition, HNF1B loss is a malignancy prediction factor. Interestingly, Hnf1b expression was decreased in K.G6pc−/− kidneys. While a single case of renal cancer has been reported in a GSDI patient, a clear cell renal carcinoma was recently observed in one K.G6pc−/− mouse (out of 36 studied mice) at a later stage of the disease. This finding highlights the need to further analyze renal cyst development in GSDI patients in order to evaluate the possible associated risk of carcinogenesis, even if the risk might be limited.
Ammopemphix hemisphaericus sp. nov., a new attached agglutinated foraminifer from the Pleistocene of the Arctic Ocean, and the taxonomic status of the genus Ammopemphix Loeblich, 1952
Authors: Waśkowska Anna , Kaminski Michael A.
Published: June 2018

The new speciesAmmopemphix hemisphaericussp. nov. is described from Pleistocene sediments of the Central Arctic Ocean. The species is a finely agglutinated monothalamous form with hemispherical shape and a terminal aperture located at the top of the test, often occurring in pseudocolonies.A. hemisphaericussp. nov. attaches itself to inorganic or organic substrates, often growing attached to the inside surfaces of calcareous or agglutinated foraminiferal tests. Pseudocolonies ofA. hemisphaericussp. nov. may also attach themselves to previous generations ofAmmopemphixindividuals. Based on our study of numerous specimens ofAmmopemphixfrom the Central Arctic Ocean, we propose modifications to the description of the genus. The genus may be pseudocolonial or consist of isolated individuals, and in the case of pseudocolonial forms, individual specimens may be arranged randomly or symmetrically. The genusAmmopemphixis found mostly in polar regions, and is here reported for the first time from the fossil record.
Psychopathological characteristics and adverse childhood events are differentially associated with suicidal ideation and suicidal acts in mood disorders
Authors: Janiri Delfina , De Rossi Pietro , Kotzalidis Georgios D. , Girardi Paolo , Koukopoulos Alexia Emilia , Reginaldi Daniela , Dotto Francesco , Manfredi Giovanni , Jollant Fabrice , Gorwood Philip , Pompili Maurizio , Sani Gabriele
Published: June 2018

Background:

Depression is an important risk factor for suicide. However, other dimensions may contribute to the suicidal risk and to the transition from ideas to acts. We aimed to test the relative involvement of hopelessness, temperament, childhood trauma, and aggression in suicide risk in a large sample of patients with mood disorders.

Methods:

We assessed 306 patients with major depressive and bipolar disorders for clinical characteristics including hopelessness, temperament, childhood trauma, and aggression. We tested their associations with suicidal ideation and acts using standard univariate/bivariate methods, followed by multivariate logistic regression models.

Results:

In multivariate analyses, the loss of expectations subscore of the hopelessness scale was associated with lifetime suicidal ideation but not suicide attempt. Childhood emotional abuse, severity of current depression, and female gender were associated with lifetime suicide attempts, whereas hyperthymic temperament was protective. Only hyperthymic temperament differentiated patients with a history of suicidal ideas vs. those with a history of suicide attempt.

Conclusions:

Findings support the association of hopelessness with suicidal ideation and point to considering in suicidal acts not only depression, but also childhood emotional abuse, hyperthymic temperament, and gender.
Bedside Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter Tip Confirmation: A Direct Savings Analysis
Authors: Patel Sanjay A. , Bhattacharjee Poushali , Roman Latoyia
Published: June 2018

Peripherally inserted central catheter use has increased dramatically over the past decade, parallel to health care costs. Traditional bedside peripherally inserted central catheter placement requires anthropometric measurements of estimated catheter length and confirmation of appropriate tip positioning via chest radiograph. Newer bedside technology, using magnet and electrocardiogram capabilities, seeks to replace the traditional method with equal efficacy but less overall cost. The need for follow-up chest radiograph can been removed, a significant cost savings in direct patient care. In this retrospective case control study, we examine costs related to these 2 tip confirmation methods while assessing overall cost savings to the health care industry.
Complexity of injective piecewise contracting interval maps
Authors: CATSIGERAS E. , GUIRAUD P. , MEYRONEINC A.
Published: June 2018

We study the complexity of the itineraries of injective piecewise contracting maps on the interval. We prove that for any such map the complexity function of any itinerary is eventually affine. We also prove that the growth rate of the complexity is bounded from above by the number, $N-1$, of discontinuities of the map. To show that this bound is optimal, we construct piecewise affine contracting maps whose itineraries all have the complexity $(N-1)n+1$. In these examples, the asymptotic dynamics take place in a minimal Cantor set containing all the discontinuities.
A history of central sets
Authors: HINDMAN NEIL
Published: June 2018

We survey results about, and results using, central sets since their introduction in 1981.
AN INSCRIPTION OF ASHURNASIRPAL II FROM THE IŠTAR-ŠARRAT-NIPHI TEMPLE AT NIMRUD
Authors: Al-Juboori Ali Yaseen
Published: June 2018

An inscription of Ashurnasirpal II (r.883–859 b.c.) was found in the temple of Ištar-Šarrat-niphi at Kalhu (Nimrud) in 2001, during the excavations of the Nineveh inspectorate expedition (State Board of Antiquities and Heritage). The preserved text duplicates RIMA 2 A.0.101.1 i 18–117. This article presents a transliteration, a table of variants, and a translation into Arabic.
The beach as (hu)man limit in Gold Coast narrative fiction
Authors: Palmer Kelly
Published: June 2018

Gold Coast beaches oscillate in the cultural imagination between everyday reality and a tourist’s paradise of ‘sun, surf and sex’ (Winchester and Everett 2000: 59). While these narratives of selfhood and becoming, egalitarianism and sexual liberation punctuate the media, Gold Coast literary fictions instead reveal the beach as a site of danger, wholly personifying the unknown. Within Amy Barker’s Omega Park, Melissa Lucashenko’s Steam Pigs, Georgia Savage’s The House Tibet and Matthew Condon’s Usher and A Night at the Pink Poodle, the beach is a ‘masculine’ space for testing the limit of the coastline and one’s own capacity for survival. This article undertakes a close textual analysis of these novels and surveys other Gold Coast fictions alongside spatial analysis of the Gold Coast coastline. These fictions suggest that the Gold Coast is not simply a holiday world or ‘Crime Capital’ in the cultural imagination, but a mythic space with violent memories, opening out onto an infinite horizon of conflict and estrangement.
Jean-Franc¸ois Vernay, 'A Brief Take on the Australian Novel', Adelaide: Wakefield Press, 2016, 256 pp., ISBN 9 7817 4305 4048, A$29.95
Authors: Walsh Pete
Published: June 2018

Jean-Franc¸ois Vernay, A Brief Take on the Australian Novel, Adelaide: Wakefield Press, 2016, 256 pp., ISBN 9 7817 4305 4048, A$29.95
Queensland's broad-scale land-clearing policy debate, 1998–2006
Authors: Laurent Nathan , Duffield Lee
Published: June 2018

This article outlines the methodology and key findings of a media content analysis of news reporting in the Courier-Mail and Queensland Country Life on the issue of broad-scale land-clearing (BSLC) in Queensland during the period 1998–2006. The case study identifies and examines evidence-based arguments made by stakeholders in the public policy debate surrounding BSLC, including elected officials and judges, interest groups, government agencies, scientists, business owners and individuals, such as academics. In both newspapers, it was noted that throughout the period under review, arguments made on environmental grounds in favour of the policy goal of maximum immediate conservation tended to be concerned with establishing an accurate definition of the BSLC problem. However, reporting of arguments made on political and economic grounds reflected stark differences between the two newspapers. The findings of this study support observations that some participants in a contest over new policy may dispute (persistently, and regardless of previous developments) the validity of: (1) definitions of a problem; (2) proposed policy solutions; (3) matters of detail or technical application; and (4) the enactment and implementation of legislation.
Middlemen, Colonial Officials, and Corruption: The rise and fall of government compradors in Hong Kong, 1840s–1850s
Authors: ABE KAORI
Published: June 2018

Exploring the rise and fall of government compradors, this article highlights Sino-British collusion in the corruption and extortion cases of the Hong Kong colonial government in the 1840s and the 1850s. A number of compradors worked for the Hong Kong colonial government throughout the nineteenth century, acting as a key communication channel between Chinese residents and colonial officials in the formative years of the colony. Various institutions of the colonial government, for instance the Colonial Treasury, Post Office, and British military, employed compradors. Colonial officials also personally employed compradors, who supported their principals’ work in the government. However, a symbiotic relationship between corrupt colonial officials and compradors had become a public problem by the mid-1850s. The colonial government responded to this by diversifying its Chinese staff rather than depending on monopolistic compradors, and also launched a scheme to nurture and employ British personnel who could act as intermediaries between the British and Chinese communities. At the same time, different kinds of Chinese intermediary elites emerged in Hong Kong from the 1860s onwards, and government compradors’ monopolistic authority in mediating between colonial officials and the Chinese public gradually declined. The volatile government comprador system highlights a key phase in the history of the evolution of the comprador system in Hong Kong.