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Background: Early discharge of frail older adults from post-acute care service may result in individuals’ reduced functional ability to carry out activities of daily living, and social, emotional, and psychological distress. To address these shortcomings, the Montreal West Island Integrated University Health and Social Services Centre in Quebec, Canada piloted a post-acute home physiotherapy program (PAHP) to facilitate the transition of older adults from the hospital to their home. This study aimed to evaluate: (1) the implementation fidelity of the PAHP program; (2) its impact on the functional independence, physical and mental health outcomes and quality of life of older adults who underwent this program (3) its potential adverse events, and (4) to identify the physical, psychological, and mental health care needs of older adults following their discharge at home. Methods: A quasi-experimental uncontrolled design with repeated measures was conducted between April 1st, 2021 and December 31st, 2021. Implementation fidelity was assessed using three process indicators: delay between referral to and receipt of the PAHP program, frequency of PAHP interventions per week and program duration in weeks. A battery of functional outcome measures, including the Functional Independence Measure (FIM) and the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Global-10 scale, as well as fall incidence, emergency visits, and hospitalizations were used to assess program impact and adverse events. The Patient’s Global Impression of Change (PGICS) was used to determine changes in participants’ perceptions of their level of improvement/deterioration. In addition, the Camberwell Assessment of Need for the Elderly (CANE) questionnaire was administered to determine the met and unmet needs of older adults. Results: Twenty-four individuals (aged 60.8 to 94 years) participated in the PAHP program. Implementation fidelity was low in regards with delay between referral and receipt of the program, intensity of interventions, and total program duration. Repeated measures ANOVA revealed significant improvement in FIM scores between admission and discharge from the PAHP program and between admission and the 3-month follow-up. Participants also reported meaningful improvements in PGICS scores. However, no significant differences were observed on the physical or mental health T-scores of the PROMIS Global-10 scale, in adverse events related to the PAHP program, or in the overall unmet needs. Conclusion: Findings from an initial sample undergoing a PAHP program suggest that despite a low implementation fidelity of the program, functional independence outcomes and patients’ global impression of change have improved. Results will help develop a stakeholder-driven action plan to improve this program. A future study with a larger sample size is currently being planned to evaluate the overall impact of this program. Clinical trial registration: Retrospectively registered NCT05915156 (22/06/2023). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Positron emission tomography (PET) is a powerful imaging tool for drug discovery, clinical diagnosis, and monitoring of disease progression. Fluorine‐18 is the most common radionuclide used for PET, but advances in radiotracer development have been limited by the historical lack of methodologies and precursors amenable to radiolabeling with fluorine‐18. Radiolabeling of electron‐rich (hetero)aromatic rings remains a long‐standing challenge in the production of PET radiopharmaceuticals. In this personal account, we discuss the history of spirocyclic iodonium ylide precursors, from inception to applications in clinical research, for the incorporation of fluorine‐18 into complex non‐activated (hetero)aromatic rings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Niobium (Nb) is one of the most immobile elements during supergene weathering, widely used for mass-balance calculations, despite elusive information on the mechanisms controlling its dynamics in the critical zone. Here, a multiscale approach, from weathering profile to atomic-scale, is developed to monitor Nb speciation along a thick (about 50 m) lateritic regolith formed over the Pitinga pluton (Amazonas, Brazil). In the A-type parent granite, Nb is mainly hosted in ilmenite (1.5–2 wt% Nb 2 O 5) and, to a lesser extent, in rutile (2–3 wt% Nb 2 O 5). A quantitative assessment of the average Nb speciation from the parent rock to the upper horizons has been carried out by combining spectroscopic and spatially-resolved chemical techniques. The contribution of Nb-bearing Ti oxides (2–6 wt% Nb 2 O 5) and Fe oxides (0.1–0.3 wt% Nb 2 O 5) in the average Nb speciation increases with the degree of weathering and reaches 80% in the most altered horizon. This unusual Nb speciation results from the nature of the primary Nb carriers, less resistant to weathering than common Nb ore minerals such as pyrochlore. X-ray absorption spectroscopy demonstrates that Nb released from the weathering of ilmenite substitutes for Fe and Ti in goethite and Ti oxides, respectively, providing atomic-scale evidence of the high affinity of Nb for these phases. Elemental mobility of Nb, Ta and Sn followed by geochemical mass-transfer calculations evidences lateral transport from Nb-Sn-enriched laterites developed over the surrounding Nb-enriched facies of the Pitinga granite to the studied profile. Elements such as Ti, Zr and Hf, often considered immobile, are leached or redistributed in the studied profile. Our results demonstrate Nb remobilization during intense weathering. Although Nb scavenging by secondary Fe and Ti oxides limits Nb mobility at the mineral scale, this work questions the unrestricted use of Nb as a chemical invariant during surficial alteration processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Positron emission tomography (PET) is a powerful tool for imaging biological processes in the central nervous system (CNS). Designing PET radiotracers capable of crossing the blood–brain barrier (BBB) remains a major challenge. In addition to being brain‐penetrant, a quantifiable CNS PET radiotracer must have high target affinity and selectivity, appropriate pharmacokinetics, minimal non‐specific binding, negligible radiometabolites in the brain, and generally must be amenable to labeling with carbon‐11 (11C) or fluorine‐18 (18F). This review aims to give an overview of some of the critical physicochemical and biochemical contributors specific for CNS PET radiotracer design and how they can differ from pharmaceutical drug development, including in vitro assays, in silico predictions, and in vivo studies, with examples for how such methods can be implemented to optimize brain uptake of radiotracers based on experiences from our neuroimaging program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Members of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) are required to meet the minimum standards of the Fitness for Operational Requirements of CAF Employment (FORCE) job-based simulation test (JBST) and must possess the capacity to perform other common essential tasks. One of those tasks is to perform basic fire management tasks during fire emergencies to mitigate damage and reduce the risk of injuries and/or death until professional firefighters arrive at the scene. To date however, the physiological demands of common firefighting tasks have mostly been performed on professional firefighters, thus rendering the transferability of the demands to the general military population unclear. This pilot study aimed to quantify, for the first time, the physiological demands of basic fire management tasks in the military, to determine if they are reflected in the FORCE JBST minimum standard. We hypothesized that the physiological demands of basic fire management tasks within the CAF are below the physiological demands of the FORCE JBST minimum standard, and as such, be lower than the demands of professional firefighting. Materials and methods To achieve this, 21 CAF members (8 females; 13 males; mean [SD] age: 33 [10] years; height: 174.5 [10.5] cm; weight: 85.4 [22.1] kg, estimated maximal oxygen uptake [ |$\dot V$| O2peak]: 44.4 (7.4) mL kg−1 min−1) participated in a realistic, but physically demanding, JBST developed by CAF professional firefighting subject matter experts. The actions included lifting, carrying, and manipulating a 13-kg powder fire extinguisher and connecting, coupling, and dragging a 38-mm fire hose over 30 m. The rate of oxygen uptake (⁠|$\dot V$| O2), heart rate, and percentage of heart rate reserve were measured continuously during two task simulation trials, which were interspersed by a recovery period. Rating of perceived exertion (6-no exertion; 20-maximal exertion) was measured upon completion of both task simulations. Peak |$\dot V$| O2 (⁠|$\dot V$| O2peak) was estimated based on the results of the FORCE JBST. Results The mean (SD) duration of both task simulation trials was 3:39 (0:19) min:s, whereas the rest period in between both trials was 62 (19) minutes. The mean O2 was 21.1 (4.7) mL kg−1 min−1 across trials, which represented 52.1 (12.2) % |$\dot V$| O2peak and ∼81% of the FORCE JBST. This was paralleled by a mean heart rate of 136 (18) beats min−1, mean percentage of heart rate reserve of 61.2 (10.8), and mean rating of perceived exertion of 11 ± 2. Other physical components of the JBST consisted of lifting, carrying, and manipulating a 13-kg load for ∼59 seconds, which represents 65% of the load of the FORCE JBST. The external resistance of the fire hose drag portion increased up to 316 N, translating to a total of 6205 N over 30 m, which represents 96% of the drag force measured during the FORCE JBST. Conclusions Our findings demonstrate that the physiological demands of basic fire management tasks in the CAF are of moderate intensity, which are reflected in the CAF physical fitness standard. As such, CAF members who achieve the minimum standard on the FORCE JBST are deemed capable of physically performing basic fire management tasks during fire emergencies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Computed tomography perfusion (CTP) evaluates blood flow parameters within brain tissue, offering a potentially more accurate estimate of cerebral perfusion. Lipophilic tracers may be better suited for assessing cerebral perfusion because they accumulate in brain tissue, serving potentially as a more accurate surrogate of perfusion. Additionally, absence of electrical activity does not always indicate DNC, as some brain activity may still be present below the detection threshold or in areas of the brain not assessed by the tests. Determination of death by neurologic criteria (DNC) is a specialized area of expertise in intensive care medicine. [Extracted from the article]

BACKGROUND Conflicting observational evidence exists regarding the association between the sex of red-cell donors and mortality among transfusion recipients. Evidence to inform transfusion practice and policy is limited. METHODS In this multicenter, double-blind trial, we randomly assigned patients undergoing red-cell transfusion to receive units of red cells from either male donors or female donors. Patients maintained their trial-group assignment throughout the trial period, including during subsequent inpatient and outpatient encounters. Randomization was conducted in a 60:40 ratio (male donor group to female donor group) to match the historical allocation of red-cell units from the blood supplier. The primary outcome was survival, with the male donor group as the reference group. RESULTS A total of 8719 patients underwent randomization before undergoing transfusion; 5190 patients were assigned to the male donor group, and 3529 to the female donor group. At baseline, the mean (±SD) age of the enrolled patients was 66.8±16.4 years. The setting of the first transfusion was as an inpatient in 6969 patients (79.9%), of whom 2942 (42.2%) had been admitted under a surgical service. The baseline hemoglobin level before transfusion was 79.5±19.7 g per liter, and patients received a mean of 5.4±10.5 units of red cells in the female donor group and 5.1±8.9 units in the male donor group (difference, 0.3 units; 95% confidence interval [CI], −0.1 to 0.7). Over the duration of the trial, 1141 patients in the female donor group and 1712 patients in the male donor group died. In the primary analysis of overall survival, the adjusted hazard ratio for death was 0.98 (95% CI, 0.91 to 1.06). CONCLUSIONS This trial showed no significant difference in survival between a transfusion strategy involving red-cell units from female donors and a strategy involving red-cell units from male donors. (Funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research; iTADS ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT03344887.) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We consider collections of Lagrangian submanifolds of a given symplectic manifold which respect uniform bounds of curvature type coming from an auxiliary Riemannian metric. We prove that, for a large class of metrics on these collections, convergence to an embedded Lagrangian submanifold implies convergence to it in the Hausdorff metric. This class of metrics includes well-known metrics such as the Lagrangian Hofer metric, the spectral metric and the shadow metrics introduced by Biran et al. [Lagrangian shadows and triangulated categories, Astérisque 426 (2021) 1–128]. The proof relies on a version of the monotonicity lemma, applied on a carefully-chosen metric ball. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The systematic mineralogy of niobium (Nb) is complex, with more than one hundred species dominated by multicomponent oxides of similar chemistry. The determination of Nb speciation in solids (i.e., the distribution between the phases and the crystal-chemical environment of Nb) is thus a challenge in geological contexts. Here, we present the first Nb L2,3-edges X-ray absorption near-edge structure (XANES) measurements on various Nb minerals and synthetic oxides with geological relevance. The interpretation of Nb L2,3-edges XANES spectra in the light of crystal-field theory shows the sensitivity of spectra to local site symmetry and electronic environment around Nb atoms. Crystal-field multiplet simulations give estimates of the 10Dq crystal-field parameter values for Nb5+, which range from 2.8 to 3.9 eV depending on Nb coordination and Nb‒O distances. Rather than a 10Dq vs. R–5 relationship (where R represents the average Nb‒O bond distance) expected in a point-charge model, we find a R–3 dependence with the crystal-field splitting for reference materials with octahedrally coordinated Nb. Complementary ligand-field multiplet simulations provide evidence of charge transfer between Nb and O. The contribution of the ionic and covalent characters to the Nb‒O bonds is equivalent, unlike more ionic 3d metal‒O bonds. This systematic characterization of the L2,3-edges XANES spectral properties of Nb provides information on the mechanisms by which Nb5+ substitutes for Fe3+, Ti4+, or Ce4+ in oxides common in geological contexts. Whereas the substitution of Nb5+ for Ce4+ does not modify the local structure of the cation site in cerianite, the substitution of Nb5+ for Ti4+ in rutile and anatase results in an increase of the cation-ligand distance and a decrease in the symmetry of the cation site. Conversely, the substitution of Nb5+ for Fe3+ in hematite and goethite results in a smaller cation site distortion. Our study demonstrates the usefulness of L2,3-edges XANES spectroscopy to determine Nb speciation in minerals to understand the processes of enrichment of this critical metal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Positron emission tomography (PET) is a molecular imaging technique that makes use of radiolabelled molecules for in vivo evaluation. Carbon-11 is a frequently used radionuclide for the labelling of small molecule PET tracers and can be incorporated into organic molecules without changing their physicochemical properties. While the short half-life of carbon-11 (11C; t½ = 20.4 min) offers other advantages for imaging including multiple PET scans in the same subject on the same day, its use is limited to facilities that have an on-site cyclotron, and the radiochemical transformations are consequently more restrictive. Many researchers have embraced this challenge by discovering novel carbon-11 radiolabelling methodologies to broaden the synthetic versatility of this radionuclide. This review presents new carbon-11 building blocks and radiochemical transformations as well as PET tracers that have advanced to first-in-human studies over the past five years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article is a comment on contributions to a special volume of the European Review of History, "The International Statistical Institute, 1885–1938" [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stock status of southern Gulf of Saint Lawrence (sGSL) snow crab (Chionoecetes opilio) in 2022 is in the healthy zone, based on defined reference points. A commercial biomass of 85,532 tonnes (t) is projected for 2023. Fishery recruitment biomass is estimated at 68,348 t, while the residual biomass was estimated at 17,388 t. Based on the harvest decision rule the commercial biomass estimate corresponds to a target exploitation rate of 41.79% and a catch option of 35,745 t for the 2023 fishery. For this catch option, a risk analysis indicates that there is a very low likelihood that the residual biomass would be below the limit reference point and a very high likelihood that the 2023 commercial stock biomass would remain above the upper stock reference point. Population recruitment and spawning stock abundance remain at high levels. Warming bottom temperatures remain a cause for concern, with crab densities in areas along the margins of the sGSL showing marked declines in recent years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When conducting a digestibility trial, pigs are usually fed only twice a day with a restricted feed intake which is not representative of the feeding conditions in a commercial farm. This study aimed to determine the effects of meal size and frequency, and exogenous enzymes (xylanase and phytase) on the digestibility of a high-fiber diet using porcine in vivo and in vitro approaches. Pigs (n = 6) were fitted with a T cannula, and each received all treatments using a 6 × 6 Latin square experimental design. The diets were supplemented (Enz) or not with a combination of xylanase and phytase and distributed into three feeding programs: one received two meals per day that met three times the maintenance energy requirement (2M), one received the same quantity of feed in eight meals (8M), and another received an amount that met five times the maintenance energy requirements in eight meals (8M+). For in vitro experiment, the degradability of fiber with or without xylanase supplementation only was determined. Enzyme supplementation increased apparent ileal digestibility (AID) of dry matter, starch, and degradation of insoluble non-starch polysaccharides (I-NSP) in all in vivo treatments (P < 0.05). The 2M compared with 8M increased the AID of starch and total tract digestibility of organic matter and I-NSP (P < 0.05). Enzyme supplementation decreased the content of insoluble arabinoxylan (P < 0.05) and increased arabinoxylan oligosaccharides (P < 0.05) in the in vivo ileal digesta and in vitro incubation. The results of this study confirm degradation by xylanase of the fiber fraction at the ileal level, which resulted in less fermentation of fiber in the large intestine. However, number and size of meals had little influence on feed digestibility. The consequences of shifting fiber fermentation more towards the upper part of the gastrointestinal tract need further investigation. The in vitro model provided a confirmation of the action of xylanase on the degradation of non-starch polysaccharides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The way in which the effect of temperature on the development rate of crustacean larvae is simulated in larval dispersal models potentially impacts the inferences made about population recruitment and connectivity. In this study, we contrasted dispersal and connectivity predictions made by a large‐scale dispersal model of American lobster (Homarus americanus H. Milne Edwards, 1837) larvae using three temperature‐dependent larval development functions proposed in the literature: (1) "warm‐source lab", (2) "warm‐source field", and (3) "cold‐source lab". Differences in predictions using each function were contrasted in the northern (colder) and southern (warmer) portions of the species' range. Using these different development functions resulted in significant and marked differences (61.3–162.4 km in the north and 30.9–81.9 km in the south) in the distances dispersed by larvae from hatch to settlement. In general, predicted self‐seeding, retention, and local connectivity were increased, and predicted connectivity among distant locations was decreased, when a function predicting faster development was used. The field‐derived function predicted much less connectivity and decreased dispersal overall than both lab‐derived functions. The cold‐source lab function predicted more retention in northern regions, but less in southern regions, than the warm‐source lab function. Our findings indicate the need for more studies to quantify the rate at which lobster larvae develop in nature, including how this may vary over space and time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We study sequences of immersions respecting bounds coming from Riemannian geometry and apply the ensuing results to the study of sequences of submanifolds of symplectic and contact manifolds. This allows us to study the subtle interaction between the Hausdorff metric and the Lagrangian Hofer and spectral metrics. In the process, we get proofs of metric versions of the nearby Lagrangian conjecture and of the Viterbo conjecture on the spectral norm. We also get C 0 -rigidity results for a vast class of important submanifolds of symplectic and contact manifolds in the presence of Riemannian bounds. Likewise, we get a Lagrangian generalization of results of Hofer [19] and Viterbo [42] on simultaneous C 0 and Hofer/spectral limits — even without any such bounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An overview of physical oceanographic conditions in the Gulf of St. Lawrence (GSL) in 2021 is presented as part of the Atlantic Zone Monitoring Program (AZMP). AZMP data as well as data from regional monitoring programs are analyzed and presented in relation to long-term means. The annual average freshwater runoffs of the St. Lawrence River measured at Québec City and its combination with rivers flowing into the Estuary (RIVSUM II) were well below normal. The sea ice seasonal maximum volume was just shy of the series low record of 2010 and the January-April average was at a series record low. The winter mixed layer volume was second lowest of the 1996-2021 time series for waters colder than -1 °C and lowest for waters colder than 0 °C. The August cold intermediate layer (CIL) average minimum temperature was the highest of the 1985-2021 time series and the seasonally averaged minimum temperature index was the highest since 1980. On the Magdalen Shallows, the bottom area covered by waters cooler than 1 °C in August-September was at a record low. Sea surface temperatures (SST) averaged monthly over the Gulf were the highest of the satellite record (since 1981) in October and November. The May-November average SST for the Gulf was 3rd highest of the time series after 2006 and 2012. Deep water temperatures have been increasing overall in the Gulf since 2009, with inward advection from Cabot Strait. Gulf-wide average temperature has hit new series record highs (since 1915) of 4.1 °C at 150 m, 6.0 °C at 200 m, 6.7 °C at 250 m and 6.9 °C at 300 m. Bottom area covered by waters warmer than 6 °C was at a record high in all regions along the deep channels, with a notable increase in the Estuary. In the northeast Gulf, there was about the same bottom area between 6 °C and 7 °C as there was > 7 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stock status of southern Gulf of St. Lawrence (sGSL) snow crab, Chionoecetes opilio, in 2021 is in the healthy zone based on the defined reference points for this stock, with an a commercially exploitable biomass of 80,950 t projected for 2022. The exploitation rate of the 2021 fishery was estimated at 31.5%, a relatively low value stemming from a 15% reduction in commercial biomass estimates made in response to concerns of over-estimation of stock indices during the 2019 and 2020 surveys. Fishery recruitment biomass is estimated at 62,473 t, while residual biomass was estimated at 19,144 t. Based on the harvest control rule, the commercial stock biomass index corresponds to a target exploitation rate of 40.96% resulting in a Total Allowable Catch (TAC) of 33,163 t for the 2022 fishery. Based on this catch option, a risk analysis indicates that there is a very low likelihood that the residual stock biomass would be below the limit reference point and a very high likelihood that the 2022 commercial stock biomass would be above the upper stock reference point. Mature female abundance remains high, though at lower levels than those observed in 2019 and 2020 and the population recruitment index is very high. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When digestibility trials are conducted, pigs are typically fed twice a day with a restricted amount of feed. These conditions are not representative of the feeding conditions in commercial farm. The present study aimed to determine the effects of meal size and frequency, xylanase and phytase inclusion as well as digesta sampling period, on the digestibility of protein, amino acids (AA), calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P). Pigs (n = 6) were fitted with a T cannula, and each received all treatments following a 2 × 3 factorial arrangement in a 6 × 6 Latin square experimental design. The diets were supplemented or not with a combination of xylanase and phytase and divided into 3 feeding programs: one received 2 meals per day that met 3 times the maintenance energy requirement (2M), one received the same quantity of feed in 8 meals (8M), and another received an amount that supplied 5 times the maintenance energy requirements in 8 meals (8M+). Digesta was sampled from 0800 to 1200, 1200–1600, 1600–2000 and 0800–2000. The results indicated an improvement in the coefficient of apparent ileal digestibility of dry matter, crude protein, P, Ca, Val and Thr with enzyme inclusion in all meal distribution (enzyme effect, P < 0.05). Apparent ileal digestibility of Ca in the 0800–1200 period was reduced in 8M+ treatment compared to 2M and 8M whereas no difference was observed for meal size or frequency in 1200–1600 and 1600–2000 periods (Interaction meal × period, P = 0.017). A meal effect was observed for coefficient of apparent total tract digestibility of Ca (meal effect, P = 0.003) which was higher by 8% in pigs fed 8M compared to 8M+ (contrast 8M vs 8M+, P = 0.040). Saturation of the absorption processes may explain lower digestibility with 8M+. Enzyme efficacy was not affected by meal size or frequency indicating minor modifications of digestive conditions. An 8-h sampling period would allow collection of a representative sample and avoid underestimating or overestimating digestibility of certain nutrients. [Display omitted] • Ileal digestibility of Ca, P, CP, Thr and Gly was increased with enzyme inclusion. • CATTD of Ca was increased when pigs were fed 2M and was further reduced when pigs were fed 8M+. • Ileal digestibility was lower during the 0800–1200 period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Niobium (Nb) is considered as one of the most immobile elements during supergene weathering due to its low solubility and the expected resistance of the pyrochlore mineral group (A 2 B 2 X 6 Y) in which Nb occupies the B site. Although the resistance of pyrochlore is challenged by direct evidence of alteration in lateritic profiles, the geochemical and mineralogical processes controlling its behavior in the critical zone remains elusive. This study uses a multiscale geochemical, mineralogical and spectroscopic approach to monitor Nb solid speciation in a thick weathering profile. The weathering of the pyrochlore-bearing core carbonatite facies from Morro dos Seis Lagos has resulted in a Fe-enriched laterite with exceptional Nb concentrations (2.91 wt% Nb 2 O 5 on average). The preservation of the successive secondary phases (Ti-, Fe-, Ce-oxides) resulting from weathering processes along the horizons offers the opportunity to track Nb during pyrochlore alteration from the fresh parent rock to the final stages of weathering. Intense lateritization processes have led to an enrichment in Fe and Ti in the pyrochlore B-sites, resulting in the weakening of the structure and its ultimate destabilization due to weaker B-O bonds. After the release of Nb from pyrochlore, the fate of Nb is dependent on the secondary phases formed during weathering. In the lower horizons dominated by Fe oxides, goethite is the main host for Nb (1 wt% Nb 2 O 5) due to its capacity to substitute Fe3+ for Nb5+, in contrast to hematite. In the upper horizons, where Ti oxides have formed during the reworking of the laterite, Nb5+ is preferentially incorporated into brookite and rutile (20 wt% Nb 2 O 5), which may have formed owing to slightly acidic pH and high Nb activity during their growth. The presence of Nb in hollandite and cerianite in a vein from the manganiferous horizon involves the transport of Nb with mobile elements at the scale of the laterite. With this study, we describe a new model accounting for the formation of Nb-enriched laterites. The latter is based on the ability of Nb5+ to substitute for Fe3+, Ti4+, Ce4+ in minerals formed by lateritization processes after its release from pyrochlore. The nature of the secondary Nb-bearing oxides is dependent on the chemistry of the parent rock and the conditions of formation of the laterite. This work, evidencing the mobilization of Nb both at the scale of the mineralogical assemblage and of the entire profile questions the pervasive use of Nb as a geochemical invariant in the critical zone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to determine the effect of the size and frequency of meals and diet type (high- or low-fibre) on fibre degradation and retention time of digesta in growing pigs. Pigs (n = 6) were fitted with a T-cannula, and each received all treatments following a 2 × 3 factorial arrangement in a 6 × 6 Latin square experimental design. The diets were either corn-soybean meal-based diet with low fibre (LowFibre) or wheat-barley based diet with high fibre (HighFibre) and distributed differently: 2 meals per day that met 3 times the maintenance energy requirement (2M), the same amount of feed in 8 meals (8M), and 8 meals per day that met 5 times the requirements (8M+). A diet type × meal interaction was observed for mean retention time (MRT) of the solid and liquid phase of digesta where MRT in LowFibre diet was higher in 2M compared to 8M and 8M+ while in HighFibre only 8M had lower MRT than 2M and 8M+ (Solid phase, P = 0.023, Liquid phase, P = 0.097). Ileum digesta from the LowFibre diet was less viscous than ileum digesta from HighFibre diet (P = 0.028) regardless of the meal distribution. Concentrations of the indigestible markers in the ileal digesta (TiO 2 and YbCl 3) increased faster in the LowFibre compared to the HighFiber diet, and marker concentrations were more constant in the 2M than the 8M and 8M+ treatments (P < 0.05). Coefficient of apparent ileal digestibility (CAID) of dry matter, energy, crude protein, total non-starch polysaccharides (NSP) and insoluble NSP was higher in the HighFibre diet than the LowFibre diet, while opposed results were observed for apparent total tract digestibility (P < 0.05). No effect of meal type was observed on CAID. Blood glucose levels were stable throughout the day for 8M and 8M+ while blood glucose for 2M was decreased between two meals (meal × time effect, P = 0.035). Larger meals in 2M-LowFibre, 2M-HighFibre and 8M+HighFibre can therefore explain longer MRT potentially due to decreased motility and slower gastric emptying. In conclusion, feeding pigs with an increased number of meals per day allows a continuous flow of digesta, stabilized blood glucose and increased digestibility. Ingestion of a high-fibre diet causes increased digesta viscosity. The type of diet had more impact on digestibility and transit time than the meal size and frequency. [Display omitted] • Pigs fed bigger meals have longer retention time especially with high-fibre diet. • Digestibility was increased when pigs were fed smaller and frequent meals. • Digesta viscosity was increased with high-fibre diet increasing retention time. • Postprandial metabolism was not affected by diet type (high- or low-fibre). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An overview of physical oceanographic conditions in the Gulf of St. Lawrence (GSL) in 2020 is presented as part of the Atlantic Zone Monitoring Program (AZMP). AZMP data as well as data from regional monitoring programs are analysed and presented in relation to long-term means, shifted from 1981-2010 to 1991-2020 in this edition of the report. The annual average freshwater runoffs of the St. Lawrence River measured at Québec City and its combination with rivers flowing into the Estuary (RIVSUM II) were above normal. Sea-ice maximum volume was below normal, but the winter mixed layer volume was near normal. The August cold intermediate layer (CIL) was warmer than normal but the seasonally averaged minimum temperature index was near normal. Surface water temperatures in the Estuary reached an unusual series record high in July; upwelling and mixing that occurs at the head of the Laurentian Channel usually keeps Estuary surface water cool, but North-easterly winds appear to have created a circulation that capped the mixing region with warmer waters. The overall seasonal average May-November SST for the Gulf was near normal in spite of an above normal seasonal August maximum (+0.7°C, +0.9 SD). Surface water temperatures were then at a record low in September in the Estuary and Northwest Gulf, caused by strong vertical wind mixing. This mixing warmed the bottom waters of the Magdalen Shallows such that the area covered by water with temperatures <1°C in September decreased to a near record low. Deep water temperatures have been increasing overall in the Gulf since 2009, with inward advection from Cabot Strait. Gulf-wide average temperature at 150 m was lower than the 2015 record highs but above normal at 3.7°C (+1.6 SD). New series record highs (since 1915) were set at 200, 250 and 300 m, at 5.7°C (+1.2°C, +1.9 SD), 6.6°C (+1.1°C, +2.5 SD) and 6.8°C (+1.1°C, +2.7 SD) respectively. Bottom area covered by waters warmer than 6°C was at a record high in the Northwest Gulf, the Northeast Gulf, and in Centre and Cabot Strait, and some 7-8°C habitat appeared for the first time in the Northeast Gulf. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyacrylates are important polymers widely used in pharmaceutical industry such as drug coatings due to their low cost, processability and ease of functionalisation. Chemical functionalities (e.g. H-bonding) can be easily included to modulate the transport of low molecular weight drug-like entities through the network. Understanding how such microscopic structural modifications determine macroscopic diffusion is critical for designing next generation responsive polymers. In this study pulsed field gradient (PFG) 1H NMR measurements of the self-diffusion of a dye molecule (Eosin Y) in a series of polyacrylate networks with differing H-bonding strength were undertaken; it was found that the diffusion of Eosin Y is significantly reduced in networks with H-bonding. Detailed analyses by 1H NMR relaxometry and double quantum (DQ) NMR show that H-bonding can also reduce polymer chain mobility. Furthermore, DSC thermoporometry showed a significant increase in the average network mesh size potentially due to the pre-organization of H-bonding containing monomer during network curing. By introducing the H-bonding disrupter, LiClO 4 , it was found that the diffusivity of solute becomes positively correlated to the average mesh size across the series of networks. Hence, a modified diffusion model based on hydrodynamic theory is proposed to separate the direct (solute-network) H-bonding contribution to solute diffusion from the indirect contribution arising from monomer pre-ordering induced mesh size reduction. Finally, it is shown that the same direct and indirect contributions to microscopic diffusivity, arising from the H-bond strength of the co-monomers, also contribute significantly to the macroscopic membrane permeability which is similarly subject to H-bond disruption. Unlabelled Image [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An analysis of the extended X‐ray absorption fine structure is developed, in which experimental modulations are projected onto calculated ones from backscattering at single neighboring atoms. From the extended X‐ray absorption fine structures of single crystals of SrTiO3 and BaTiO3, initial values for nearest neighbor distances are obtained. In addition, a preference for the element of the next nearest neighbor can be given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Musculoskeletal injuries (MSKIs) and recruitment are major challenges faced by modern military forces. The Canadian Armed Forces uses a physical employment standard (PES) proxy to determine occupational fitness and job suitability. It is unknown whether the performance on the PES proxy can be also used as predictor of MSKIs. The purpose of this study was to investigate for relationships between age, sex, body composition, aerobic fitness, performance on the Canadian Armed Forces PES proxy (FORCE evaluation), and risk of sustaining a MSKI requiring intervention in the Training Rehabilitation Program (MSKI-TRP1) during Canadian Basic Military Qualification.Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective analysis of MSKIs in recruits introduced in the Training Rehabilitation Program (TRP1) in 2016 and 2017. A two-tailed t-test and a multivariate stepwise logistic regression were completed to investigate the interrelationships of sex, age, FORCE performance (20 m rushes, sandbag lift, intermittent loaded shuttles, sandbag drag) and health-related characteristics (waist circumference, predicted peak oxygen consumption [$\dot{V}$O2peak]), and odds for sustaining a MSKI-TRP.Results: The MSKI-TRP1 intervention rate observed was 4.3%. Rehabilitation duration was an average (SD) of 87 (76) days; nearly 80% of MSKI-TRP were lower body injuries. MSKI-TRP recruits were older, had a lower score on FORCE, and had a larger mean waist circumference and lower $\dot{V}$O2peak than non-TRP1 recruits (all P < 0.01). Recruits with performance lower than 1 SD below mean on the 20 m rushes, intermittent loaded shuttle, or sandbag drag were 2.69 (1.89-3.83), 2.74 (1.91-3.95), and 2.26 (1.52-3.37) times more likely to sustain a MSKI-TRP1, respectively (all P < 0.01). Recruits with $\dot{V}$O2peak lower than 1 SD below mean were also 2.19 (1.30-3.70) times more likely to sustain a MSKI-TRP. Neither sex, age, nor waist circumference impacted the risk of MSKI-TRP1 when controlling for FORCE performance.Conclusions: The Canadian Armed Forces PES proxy performance can be used to assess the odds of sustaining a MSKI-TRP1 in Canadian military recruit training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scandium is often associated with iron oxides in the environment. Despite the use of scandium as a geochemical tracer and the existence of world-class supergene deposits, uncertainties on speciation obscure the processes governing its sequestration and concentration. Here, we use first-principles approaches to interpret experimental K-edge X‑ray absorption near-edge structure spectra of scandium either incorporated in or adsorbed on goethite and hematite, at concentrations relevant for the environment. This modeling helps to interpret the characteristic spectral features, providing key information to determine scandium speciation when associated with iron oxides. We show that scandium is substituted into iron oxides at low concentrations without modifying the crystal structure. When scandium is adsorbed onto iron oxide surfaces, the process occurs through outer-sphere complexation with a reduction in the coordination number of the hydration shell. Considering available X‑ray absorption spectra from laterites, the present results confirm that scandium adsorption onto iron oxides is the dominant mechanism of sequestration in these geochemical conditions. This speciation explains efficient scandium recovery through mild metallurgical treatments of supergene lateritic ores. The specificities of scandium sorption mechanisms are related to the preservation of adsorbed scandium in million-years old laterites. These results demonstrate the emerging ability to precisely model fine X‑ray absorption spectral features of trace metals associated with mineral phases relevant to the environment. It opens new perspectives to accurately determine trace metals speciation from high-resolution spatially resolved X‑ray absorption near-edge structure spectroscopy in order to constrain the molecular mechanisms controlling their dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: During general anaesthesia, most patients develop atelectasis, which promotes postoperative pulmonary complications. RCTs that investigated perioperative lung protection have failed to reduce postoperative pulmonary complications consistently. Ultrasound imaging could help confirm the effects of different protective ventilatory strategies, but this has not been tested in trials. The objective of this study was to use ultrasonography to evaluate whether lung-protective ventilation measures reduce perioperative atelectasis.Methods: We conducted a prospective, randomised patient- and assessor-blinded controlled trial in women undergoing open gynaecological surgery. Subjects were randomised to either lung protection or zero end-expiratory pressure (ZEEP; with no recruitment manoeuvres [RMs]). Lung protection entailed PEEP (7 cm H2O) and RMs every 30 min. Lung ultrasonography was undertaken at five predefined time points. The primary outcome was the difference in lung ultrasonography score (LUS) between groups before emergence; a lower LUS indicates better lung aeration.Results: We recruited 45 women (34-85 yr old). Women randomised to lung protection had lower mean (standard deviation) LUS before emergence (6.1 [3.7]), compared with women randomised to ZEEP (11.7 [3.9]; 95% confidence interval for the difference between group means [-7.9 to -3.2]; P<0.0001). This difference did not persist after extubation, with similar mean LUSs in women who had received intraoperative lung protection (7.0 [4.1]), compared with women randomised to receive ZEEP (7.7 [3.1]).Conclusions: As assessed by lung ultrasonography, intraoperative PEEP/RMs decreased aeration loss during general anaesthesia. However, similar degrees of aeration loss were observed after tracheal extubation regardless of intraoperative ventilatory strategy.Clinical Trial Registration: NCT02055807. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This study was conducted to determine what physical and physiological characteristics contribute to the performance of an urban operation casualty evacuation (UO) and its predictive test, FORCE combat (FC) and describe the metabolic demand of the UO in female soldiers.Methods: Seventeen military members (9 M and 8 F) completed a loaded walking maximal aerobic test, the UO and FC. Heart rate reserve (HRR) and completion time were used as efficiency/performance measures. Oxygen consumption (VO2) was directly measured for UO on five female participants with a portable indirect calorimetry system, and analyzed using descriptive statistics. Stepwise multiple regression analysis was used to determine the contribution of the non-modifiable (age, sex, height) and modifiable characteristics (lean body mass to dead mass ratio (LBM:DM), VO2max corrected for load (L.VO2max), peak force (PF) measured on an isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP) and medicine ball chest throw distance (Dist) on to the performance of each exercise.Results: LBM:DM and PF were the only factors included in the stepwise regression model for UO, predicting 70% of UO performance (p < 0.01). For FC, L.VO2max only was included in the stepwise regression model predicting 54% of FC performance (p < 0.01). Sex, age and height were not included in the regression model. The average metabolic cost of UO was 21.4 mL of O2*kg-1*min-1 in female soldiers while wearing PPE.Conclusion: This study showed that modifiable factors such as body composition, PF on IMTP and L.VO2max are key contributors to performance on UO and FC performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scandium is often considered as immobile during chemical weathering, based on its low solubility. In contrast to other conservative (i.e. relatively immobile) elements incorporated into accessory minerals resistant to weathering (e.g. zirconium, thorium or niobium), the scarcity of scandium minerals indicates that the processes accounting for scandium's immobilisation are distinctive. However, the evolution of scandium speciation during weathering is unknown, limiting the understanding of the processes controlling its dynamics in the critical zone. Exceptional scandium concentrations in east Australian laterites provide the possibility of unravelling these mechanisms. We follow scandium speciation through thick lateritic profiles (> 30 m) using a multiscale mineralogical and spectroscopic approach involving electron microprobe, laser-ablation–inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, selective leaching and X-ray absorption near-edge structure spectroscopy, complemented by mass-transfer calculations. We show that the initial reservoir of scandium contained in the parent rock is preserved under reducing conditions occurring in the lowest horizons of the profiles. The dissolution of scandium-bearing clinopyroxene generates smectitic clays that immobilise and concentrate scandium. It is subsequently trapped in the lateritic duricrust by goethite. Scandium mobilisation appears in this horizon and increases upward as a result of the dissolution of goethite, possibly assisted by dissolved organic matter, and the precipitation of hematite. Molecular-scale analyses demonstrate that changes in speciation govern scandium dynamics, with substitution in smectitic clays and adsorption on iron oxyhydroxides playing a crucial role in scandium immobility in the saprolite and lower lateritic duricrust. The higher affinity of scandium for goethite relative to hematite drives scandium mobilisation in the upper lateritic duricrust, leading to its concentration downward in the lower lateritic duricrust. These successive mechanisms illustrate how the unique complexity of the critical zone leads to scandium concentrations that may form new types of world-class scandium deposits. Comparison with conservative elements and with rare-earth elements, expected to have similar geochemical properties, emphasizes the unique behaviour of scandium in the critical zone. While scandium remains immobile during the early stages of weathering, intense and long-term alteration processes, observed in lateritic contexts, lead to scandium mobilisation. This study highlights the dependence of scandium mobility on weathering conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ferromagnetic, pure ZnO films were grown on Al2O3 substrates at various nitrogen pressures (0.01-1.0 mbar) and investigated with x-ray diffraction (XRD) and x-ray absorption spectroscopy. According to XRD data, the crystalline films were composed of crystallites of approximately 50 nm in size, oriented with respect to the substrates, and the lattice spacings show slight deviations with respect to single-crystalline ZnO of wurtzite structure. The parameters determined by XRD agree with those determined by extended x-ray absorption fine structure, except for the sample grown at the lowest N2 pressure of 0.01 mbar, which was attributed to deviations from the ZnO single crystals. The results for the ZnO films grown at 0.1 to 1.0 mbar partial N2 pressure indicate wurtzite unit cells compressed along the c axis. The x-ray absorption near-edge structure (XANES) spectra exhibited a strong dependence on the x-ray polarization and on nitrogen partial pressure, which was explained by the increase in the concentration of defects with nitrogen partial pressure and by interface or grain boundary effects. First-principles calculations using multiple-scattering formalism suggested that the XANES spectra changes were because of increasing Zn vacancy concentration with increasing nitrogen pressure. The results indicated that Zn vacancy defects play a significant role in the ferromagnetism of these films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work we present an improved approach for the analysis of 1H double-quantum nuclear magnetic resonance build-up data, mainly for the determination of residual dipolar coupling constants and distributions thereof in polymer gels and elastomers, yielding information on crosslink density and potential spatial inhomogeneities. We introduce a new generic build-up function, for use as component fitting function in linear superpositions, or as kernel function in fast Tikhonov regularization (ftikreg). As opposed to the previously used inverted Gaussian build-up function based on a second-moment approximation, this method yields faithful coupling constant distributions, as limitations on the fitting limit are now lifted. A robust method for the proper estimation of the error parameter used for the regularization is established, and the approach is demonstrated for different inhomogeneous elastomers with coupling constant distributions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The contact angles of most surfaces modified by ion implantation change with the passage of time. The aim of this experiment is to better understand the mechanism leading to the aging of argon implanted silicon oxide surfaces. Coupons of silicon with its native oxide layer have been irradiated by means of 3 keV Ar ions with a fluence of 1.8 x 10[SUP16] Ar/cm[SUP2]. Some of the implantations have been performed under oxygen partial pressure (~5 x 10[SUP-5] Torr). The samples have been characterized at different periods of time after the implantation, by means of contact angle hysteresis measurements and angle resolved x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (ARXPS). Irradiation with Ar ions has produced a more hydrophilic surface immediately after implantation. With the passage of time, the contact angles have increased both in ambient air and in argon atmosphere. Characterization by means of XPS has shown that there is with time a small increase of the O concentration as well as a small decrease of the quantity of Ar in the silicon oxide surfaces. The shape of the C 1 s and Si 2p spectra and their details are also slightly modified with the passage of time. A model using the ARXPS measurements suggests that for the samples implanted without oxygen, the aging would be principally due to the spreading of a natural carbonaceous surface layer dispersed into islands after the Ar implantation. The layer being more hydrophobic than the silicon oxide, its spreading would increase the apparent contact angles. On the other hand, the increase of the carbon concentration in the carbonaceous layer would produce a more hydrophobic surface and would be responsible for the aging of the samples implanted in O[SUB2] partial pressure. Results obtained by means of a simple model and the Cassie's equation suggest that for the samples implanted without O[SUB2] gas, the contact angles of the substrate and the carbonaceous layer are 5° and 110°, respectively. The apparent contact... [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ecological research is highlighting different kinds of issues concerning biodiversity conservation policies. Based on a historical study on protected areas, we suggest that these issues are not caused by a lack of knowledge or technical tools but rather by a misuse of ecological knowledge during the implementation of policy instruments in part driven by a lack of understanding of the mechanisms underlying the policymaking process. We believe that determining the conditions under which ecological science can enlighten policy decisions is now necessary to address current biodiversity conservation issues. This can only be achieved through the promotion of interdisciplinary research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Circulating fatty acids are a major systemic energy source in the fasting state as well as a determinant of hepatic triglycerides (TG)-rich very-low-density lipoprotein production. Upon acute hypoxia, sympathetic arousal induces adipose tissue lipolysis, resulting in an increase in circulating nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA). Animal studies suggest that TG clearance may also be strongly reduced under hypoxia, though this effect has been shown to be dependent on temperature. Whether the hypoxia-induced rise in blood fatty acid concentrations affects fasting TG levels in humans under thermoneutral conditions remains unknown. TG, NEFA, and glycerol levels were measured in fasted healthy young men ( n = 10) exposed for 6 h to either normoxia (ambient air) or acute hypoxia (fraction of inspired oxygen = 0.12) in a randomized, crossover design. Participants were casually clothed and rested in front of a fan in an environmental chamber maintained at 28 °C during each trial. Under hypoxia, a significantly greater increase in NEFA occurred (condition × time interaction, p = 0.049) and glycerol levels tended to be higher (condition × time, p = 0.104), suggesting an increase in adipose tissue lipolysis. However, plasma TG levels did not change over time and did not differ between the normoxia and hypoxia conditions. In conclusion, acute exposure to normobaric hypoxia under thermoneutral condition in healthy men during fasting state increased lipolysis without affecting circulating TG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spherical gold nanoparticles have been supported onto the surface of potassium niobium oxide perovskites, an underdeveloped class of semiconductor in photocatalytic organic transformations. The nanoparticle dopants of 9.5 nm in diameter and surface plasmon absorption at 530 nm are examined as possible visible light induced catalysts using alcohol photooxidation as the probe reaction. The nanomaterial-induced photooxidation of a series of aromatic alcohols is examined, in the absence of solvent, as a function of base, H2O2, and catalyst concentrations, as well as using multiple visible light sources. This experimental methodology affords extremely selective photooxidation to the carbonyl products (>99%) in as little as 2 h. Using the results obtained from the substitution of the aromatic alcohol, the proposed photocatalytic mechanism is suggested to rely heavily on plasmon-initiated electron transfer from the gold nanoparticle surface to the potassium niobium oxide perovskite and subsequent reductive decomposition of H2O2. This photodegradation step is proposed to favor the formation of ketyl radical species, a key intermediate in the visible light induced mechanism that undergoes both an electron and proton transfer to facilitate formation of the final, carbonyl products. Furthermore, the gold nanoparticle - potassium niobium oxide catalyst exhibits moderate reusability, highly desired in the realm of heterogeneous catalysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The meta-analysis of about 13,000 analyses of scandium content in garnet grains shows that, below the spinel–garnet transition, this phase carries about three-quarters of the Sc budget of the mantle, indicating its control on Sc mobility. The Sc content of garnets in mafic rocks is low, due to a dilution effect resulting from their high modal content in garnet. Garnets from ultramafic rocks exhibit a wider range of Sc concentrations. We assess the relative influence of thermobarometry, crystal chemistry and fluid-related events on the distribution of Sc in garnet from such rocks to improve the tracking of geochemical processes in the mantle. Pressure and temperature of equilibration in the mantle are second-order factors influencing the Sc content of garnet, while crystal chemistry, in particular C r C r + A l and C a C a + M g , is the main parameter controlling the compatibility of Sc. Scandium is incorporated in both X and Y sites of Cr-Ca-rich garnets, resulting in a behaviour intermediate between rare-earth elements, incorporated in the X site, and trivalent transition elements, occupying the Y site. This affinity for both sites results in a mild compatibility of Sc in the garnet stability field of the mantle; hence Sc concentration in garnet increases with melt extraction and can be reduced by silicate-melt metasomatism. In contrast, metasomatism by volatile-rich fluids increases the Sc concentration in garnet. The control of garnet on the compatibility of Sc in deep lithospheric rocks demonstrates the potential of using Sc to track the conditions of formation of magmas and their residual rocks, as well as the origin and nature of metasomatic fluids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Transfusion data for obstetric patients are scarce. Identifying characteristics associated with red blood cell transfusion (RBCT) is of importance to better identify patients who would benefit from blood conservation strategies as the risk of alloimmunization from RBCT has the potential to affect the fetus and newborn.Study Design and Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study using hospital administrative data to identify trends and risk factors of RBCT in obstetric patients. Data were analyzed according to the mode of delivery.Results: A total of 45,213 deliveries were captured between January 1, 2007, and December 31, 2013. A higher proportion of patients undergoing cesarean sections (C/Ss) received an RBCT (2.3%) compared to other modes of delivery (0.7% for spontaneous vaginal delivery, 1.5% for instrumental delivery; p < 0.001). In addition, the risk of RBCT increased over the 7-year period for those patients undergoing C/S (relative risk [RR], 1.56; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.14-2.15). An unavailable hemoglobin (Hb) level (RR, 12.94; 95% CI, 7.39-22.66) and Hb level of 70 to 80 g/L (RR, 7.78; 95% CI = 5.21-11.60) were strongly associated with RBCT among women undergoing C/S. Earlier gestational age at induction increased the risk of RBCT across all modes of delivery.Conclusions: The higher frequency of RBCT for unknown and low Hb supports the need for predelivery patient blood management at the time of delivery. The additional risk factors associated with RBCT identified may be used to develop risk stratification tools by mode of delivery to assist in the identification of patients at the highest risk of requiring RBCT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper disentangles the relationship between election outcomes and satisfaction with democracy. As the first comparative study to employ a measure of satisfaction immediately before and after elections, we can be unusually confident that any changes we observe are attributable to election outcomes. Following previous work, we affirm that voting for parties that win more votes, more legislative seats, and more cabinet seats boosts satisfaction with democracy. In addition, we demonstrate for the first time that voters are sensitive to deficits in representation; satisfaction with democracy decreases when one’s party’s seat share falls short of its vote share. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using sea urchin embryos, we demonstrate that the MEK/MAPK/ERK cascade is essential for the proper progression of the cell cycle. Activation of a limited fraction of MAPK/ERK is required between S-phase and M-phase. Neither DNA replication nor CDK1 activation are impacted by the inhibition of this small active MAPK/ERK fraction. Nonetheless, the chromatin and spindle organisations are profoundly altered. Early morphological disorders induced by the absence of MAPK/ERK activation are correlated with an important inhibition of global protein synthesis and modification in the cyclin B accumulation profile. After appearance of morphological disorders, there is an increase in the level of the inhibitor of protein synthesis, 4E-BP, and, ultimately, an activation of the spindle checkpoint. Altogether, our results suggest that MAPK/ERK activity is required for the synthesis of (a) protein(s) implicated in an early step of chromatin /microtubule attachment. If this MAPK/ERK-dependent step is not achieved, the cell activates a new checkpoint mechanism, involving the reappearance of 4E-BP that maintains a low level of protein translation, thus saving cellular energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A range of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)-based polyacrylate networks with two different topological properties were synthesized by photoinitiated free-radical polymerization and analyzed by mechanical, chromatographic, and NMR methods. Comparison between networks with ziplike and pointlike junctions pinpointed the critical role of network topology in generating the so-called "short chain abnormality" in polymer dynamics. In particular, double quantum (DQ) NMR analysis of the ziplike networks identified strong topological constraints on isotropic movement of network chains directly resulting in increased effective functionality of the system. The failure of classical rubber elasticity theory in treating networks with ziplike cross-links is found to arise primarily from non-Gaussian behavior of these network chains caused by the topological constraints. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a report from a May 26-28, 2016 conference on history and sociology. Topics of presentations delivered include attempts by 18th-century Evangelical missionaries to tabulate the number of saved souls, international migrations of members of the International Labor Organization, and the role of global numerical indices in global development policy.

Abstract: A joint experimental and theoretical investigation of epitaxial MnO films on Ag(001) also including the reference systems Ag(001) and MnO(001) is presented using photoelectron diffraction (XPD) supported by photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and low energy electron diffraction (LEED). MnO films have been grown with thicknesses 1 to 5nm. The conditions of film growth (temperature and time) have been chosen to obtain information on the development of film structure with thickness and to permit comparison regarding film absorption and diffraction studies. Experimental angular distribution patterns (ADP) and angular distribution curves (ADC) have been recorded and analyzed by comparing the results to multiple scattering cluster calculations. Excellent agreement was obtained for the description of the ADCs of Ag(001) and MnO(001) surfaces, and fine structures due to multiple scattering effects have been clearly identified. The multiple scattering analysis has been found to be indispensable in particular for a structural analysis of the oxide material. ADPs of MnO films grown on Ag(001) have supported the epitaxial growth of the films from the beginning. The analysis of the ADCs in dependence on growing MnO film thickness has provided clear evidence for strained, tetragonally distorted MnO films for the first few nm, while the thicker films of about 5nm have evidently adopted bulk structure and bulk lattice constants. These results are discussed in comparison to recent structural studies of MnO on non-lattice matched metal substrates resulting in a rather similar plot for the oxide growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]