bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optical characterization of atmospheric‐pressure plasma needle
Authors: Fatima S.S. , Rehman N.U. , Younus Maria , Ahmad I.
Published: October 2017

The atmospheric‐pressure plasma needle is a promising source that can be used efficiently for different industrial applications. A radio frequency (RF) (13.56 MHz) generator was used to generate a He–O2/Ar mixture plasma. The ground‐state oxygen atomic density [O] was calculated as a function of discharge parameters by “actinometry”. The Ar‐I (2p1 → 1s2) line at 750 nm and the O‐I (3P → 3S) line at 844 nm were used to estimate the [O] atomic density. The rotational temperature TR of He–O2/Ar mixture was measured from the rotational levels of the “first negative system” (FNS) by using the “Boltzmann plot”. The effect of discharge parameters on the atomic oxygen density [O] and the gas temperature was monitored. These results show that [O] density increases with RF power and O2 concentration, but decreases with the gas flow rate. Whereas the gas temperature increases with increase in the input RF power, it decreases with increase in the gas flow rate and O2 concentration in the mixture. Since the [O] atomic density contributes to plasma‐based biomedical applications, the proposed optimum conditions for plasma‐based decontamination of heat‐sensitive materials in the present study are 0.6% oxygen, 500 sccm flow rate, and 26 W RF power.
Angelicin potentiates TRAIL‐induced apoptosis in renal carcinoma Caki cells through activation of caspase 3 and down‐regulation of c‐FLIP expression
Authors: Min Kyoung‐Jin , Um Hee Jung , Seo Seung Un , Woo Seon Min , Kim Shin , Park Jong‐Wook , Lee Hyun‐Shik , Kim Sang Hyun , Choi Yung Hyun , Lee Tae‐Jin , Kwon Taeg Kyu
Published: October 2017

Preclinical Research & Development

Angelicin is a furocoumarin derived from Psoralea corylifolia L. fruit that has anti‐inflammatory and anti‐tumor activity. In the present study, the effect of angelicin in enhancing tumor necrosis factor‐related apoptosis‐inducing ligand (TRAIL)‐induced apoptotic cell death was studied in Caki (renal carcinoma) cells. Angelicin alone and TRAIL alone had no effect on apoptosis, but in combination these compounds markedly induced apoptosis in the cancer cell lines while not inducing apoptosis in normal cells. The combination treatment induced accumulation of the sub‐G1 population, DNA fragmentation, and activated caspase 3 activity in Caki cells, induced down‐regulation of c‐FLIP expression post‐translationally, and over‐expression of c‐FLIP markedly blocked apoptosis induced by combined treatment with angelicin plus TRAIL. This study provides evidence that angelicin might be a TRAIL sensitizer.
Fatality involving ocfentanil documented by identification of metabolites
Authors: Allibe Nathalie , Richeval Camille , Phanithavong Mélodie , Faure Amandine , Allorge Delphine , Paysant François , Stanke‐Labesque Françoise , Eysseric‐Guerin Hélène , Gaulier Jean‐Michel
Published: October 2017

The use of new psychoactive substances (NPS) has rapidly increased over the last decade. In the last 4 years, producers increasingly appear to be targeting non‐controlled synthetic opioids, involving fentanyl derivatives such as ocfentanil (OcF). Identification of metabolites is of major importance in the context of NPS use, as it could improve the detection window in biological matrices in clinical and forensic intoxication cases. Hence, this work aims to report a fatality involving OcF documented by the identification of metabolites. A 30‐year‐old woman was found dead at home: an unidentified powder was found near her body and some injection sites were found at the autopsy. Toxicological analyses allowed to determine the presence of OcF in the powder, blood (3.7/3.9 μg/L, peripheral/cardiac) and in other post‐mortem samples. The most relevant potential CYP‐ and UGT‐dependent metabolites of OcF were investigated in vitro using human liver microsome incubation and liquid chromatography coupled with high resolution mass spectrometry, and subsequently confirmed in post‐mortem samples. Four OcF metabolites were produced in vitro (a mono‐hydroxylated OcF, O‐desmethylOcF, a hydroxylated desmethylOcF and a glucuronidated form of the O‐desmethylOcF), and all except the glucuronide were observed in blood and bile post‐mortem samples. Considering the relative intensity of the chromatographic peak areas, O‐desmethylOcF can be suggested to be an abundant metabolite of OcF. Nevertheless, the relevance of O‐desmethylOcF as being a complementary analytical target of OcF for OcF use detection needs further in vivo confirmation, especially through analysis of urines from users.
A novel mouse Cre‐driver line targeting Perilipin 2‐expressing cells in the neonatal lung
Authors: Ntokou Aglaia , Szibor Marten , Rodríguez‐Castillo José Alberto , Quantius Jennifer , Herold Susanne , El Agha Elie , Bellusci Saverio , Salwig Isabelle , Braun Thomas , Voswinckel Robert , Seeger Werner , Morty Rory E. , Ahlbrecht Katrin
Published: October 2017

Pulmonary diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung fibrosis, and bronchopulmonary dysplasia are characterized by the destruction or malformation of the alveolar regions of the lung. The underlying pathomechanisms at play are an area of intense interest since these mechanisms may reveal pathways suitable for interventions to drive reparative processes. Lipid‐laden fibroblasts (lipofibroblasts) express the Perilipin 2 (Plin2) gene‐product, PLIN2, commonly called adipose‐differentiation related protein (ADRP). These cells are also thought to play a role in alveolarization and repair after injury to the alveolus. Progress in defining the functional contribution of lipofibroblasts to alveolar generation and repair is hampered by a lack of in vivo tools. The present study reports the generation of an inducible mouse Cre‐driver line to target cells of the ADRP lineage. Robust Cre‐mediated recombination in this mouse line was detected in mesenchymal cells of the postnatal lung, and in additional organs including the heart, liver, and spleen. The generation and validation of this valuable new tool to genetically target, manipulate, and trace cells of the ADRP lineage is critical for assessing the functional contribution of lipofibroblasts to lung development and repair.
Doubt and fear of self in bulimia nervosa
Authors: Wilson Samantha , Aardema Frederick , O'Connor Kieron
Published: October 2017

Objective

Several overlapping cognitive processes have been identified in eating disorders (EDs) and obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). Drawing from the OCD literature, the present study examined whether bulimia nervosa (BN) is associated with a maladaptive inductive reasoning style characterized by the over‐investment in possibility‐based (as opposed to reality‐based) information.

Method

Women with BN (n = 25) and healthy controls (HC; n = 24) completed the Inference Processes Task (IPT), an ecological inductive reasoning task previously validated in OCD samples. Participants also completed the Fear of Self Questionnaire (FSQ) that evaluates investment in a feared possible identity.

Results

Significant differences on the IPT indicate that the BN group was more influenced by possibility‐based information throughout the task than the HC group (F[5.44, 255.78] = 6.94, p > .001). It was also found that the BN group scored significantly higher on the FSQ than the HC group (t[29.98] = 8.4, p > .001), replicating previous findings. Finally, scores on the IPT were significantly correlated with measures of symptom severity.

Discussion

These findings suggest that BN may be associated with maladaptive inductive reasoning processes characterized by over‐investment in possibility‐based feared outcomes and identities.
Field evidence challenges the often‐presumed relationship between early male maturation and female‐biased sexual size dimorphism
Authors: Chelini Marie‐Claire , Hebets Eileen
Published: October 2017

Female‐biased sexual size dimorphism (SSD) is often considered an epiphenomenon of selection for the increased mating opportunities provided by early male maturation (i.e., protandry). Empirical evidence of the adaptive significance of protandry remains nonetheless fairly scarce. We use field data collected throughout the reproductive season of an SSD crab spider, Mecaphesa celer, to test two hypotheses: Protandry provides fitness benefits to males, leading to female‐biased SSD, or protandry is an indirect consequence of selection for small male size/large female size. Using field‐collected data, we modeled the probability of mating success for females and males according to their timing of maturation. We found that males matured earlier than females and the proportion of virgin females decreased abruptly early in the season, but unexpectedly increased afterward. Timing of female maturation was not related to clutch size, but large females tended to have more offspring than small females. Timing of female and male maturation was inversely related to size at adulthood, as early‐maturing individuals were larger than late‐maturing ones, suggesting that both sexes exhibit some plasticity in their developmental trajectories. Such plasticity indicates that protandry could co‐occur with any degree and direction of SSD. Our calculation of the probability of mating success along the season shows multiple male maturation time points with similar predicted mating success. This suggests that males follow multiple strategies with equal success, trading‐off access to virgin females with intensity of male–male competition. Our results challenge classic hypotheses linking protandry and female‐biased SSD, and emphasize the importance of directly testing the often‐assumed relationships between co‐occurring animal traits.
Phylogeography of Schizopygopsis stoliczkai (Cyprinidae) in Northwest Tibetan Plateau area
Authors: Wanghe Kunyuan , Tang Yongtao , Tian Fei , Feng Chenguang , Zhang Renyi , Li Guogang , Liu Sijia , Zhao Kai
Published: October 2017

Schizopygopsis stoliczkai (Cyprinidae, subfamily Schizothoracinae) is one of the major freshwater fishes endemic to the northwestern margin of the Tibetan Plateau. In the current study, we used mitochondrial DNA markers cytochrome b (Cyt b) and 16S rRNA (16S), as well as the nuclear marker, the second intron of the nuclear beta‐actin gene (Act2), to uncover the phylogeography of S. stoliczkai. In total, we obtained 74 haplotypes from 403 mitochondrial concatenated sequences. The mtDNA markers depict the phylogenetic structures of S. stoliczkai, which consist of clade North and clade South. The split time of the two clades is dated back to 4.27 Mya (95% HPD = 1.96–8.20 Mya). The estimated split time is earlier than the beginning of the ice age of Pleistocene (2.60 Mya), suggesting that the northwestern area of the Tibetan Plateau probably contain at least two glacial refugia for S. stoliczkai. SAMOVA supports the formation of four groups: (i) the Karakash River group; (ii) The Lake Pangong group; (iii) the Shiquan River group; (iv) the Southern Basin group. Clade North included Karakash River, Lake Pangong, and Shiquan River groups, while seven populations of clade South share the haplotypes. Genetic diversity, star‐like network, BSP analysis, as well as negative neutrality tests indicate recent expansions events of S. stoliczkai. Conclusively, our results illustrate the phylogeography of S. stoliczkai, implying the Shiquan River is presumably the main refuge for S. stoliczkai.
Incorporating phylogenetic information for the definition of floristic districts in hyperdiverse Amazon forests: Implications for conservation
Authors: Guevara Andino Juan Ernesto , Pitman Nigel C. A. , ter Steege Hans , Mogollón Hugo , Ceron Carlos , Palacios Walter , Oleas Nora , Fine Paul V. A.
Published: October 2017

Using complementary metrics to evaluate phylogenetic diversity can facilitate the delimitation of floristic units and conservation priority areas. In this study, we describe the spatial patterns of phylogenetic alpha and beta diversity, phylogenetic endemism, and evolutionary distinctiveness of the hyperdiverse Ecuador Amazon forests and define priority areas for conservation. We established a network of 62 one‐hectare plots in terra firme forests of Ecuadorian Amazon. In these plots, we tagged, collected, and identified every single adult tree with dbh ≥10 cm. These data were combined with a regional community phylogenetic tree to calculate different phylogenetic diversity (PD) metrics in order to create spatial models. We used Loess regression to estimate the spatial variation of taxonomic and phylogenetic beta diversity as well as phylogenetic endemism and evolutionary distinctiveness. We found evidence for the definition of three floristic districts in the Ecuadorian Amazon, supported by both taxonomic and phylogenetic diversity data. Areas with high levels of phylogenetic endemism and evolutionary distinctiveness in Ecuadorian Amazon forests are unprotected. Furthermore, these areas are severely threatened by proposed plans of oil and mining extraction at large scales and should be prioritized in conservation planning for this region.
Effects of seasonality and environmental gradients on Spartina alterniflora allometry and primary production
Authors: Hill Troy D. , Roberts Brian J.
Published: October 2017

Predictions of how salt marsh primary production and carbon storage will respond to environmental change can be improved through detailed datasets documenting responses to real‐world environmental variation. To address a shortage of detailed studies of natural variation, we examined drivers of Spartina alterniflora stem allometry and productivity in seven marshes across three regions in southern Louisiana. Live‐stem allometry varied spatially and seasonally, generally with short stems weighing more (and tall stems weighing less) in the summer and fall, differences that persist even after correcting for flowering. Strong predictive relationships exist between allometry parameters representing emergent stem mass and mass accumulation rates, suggesting that S. alterniflora populations navigate a trade‐off between larger mass at emergence and faster rates of biomass accumulation. Aboveground production and belowground production were calculated using five and four approaches, respectively. End‐of‐season aboveground biomass was a poor proxy for increment‐based production measures. Aboveground production (Smalley) ranged from 390 to 3,350 g m−2 year−1 across all marshes and years. Belowground production (max–min) was on average three times higher than aboveground; total production ranged from 1,400 to 8,500 g m−2 year−1. Above‐ and belowground production were both positively correlated with dissolved nutrient concentrations and negatively correlated to salinity. Synthesis: Interannual variation in water quality is sufficient to drive above‐ and belowground productivity. The positive relationship between nutrients and belowground production indicates that inputs of nutrients and freshwater may increase salt marsh carbon storage and ecosystem resilience to sea level rise.
Right heart dysfunction and failure in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: mechanisms and management. Position statement on behalf of the Heart Failure Association of the European Society of Cardiology
Authors: Gorter Thomas M. , van Veldhuisen Dirk J. , Bauersachs Johann , Borlaug Barry A. , Celutkiene Jelena , Coats Andrew J.S. , Crespo‐Leiro Marisa G. , Guazzi Marco , Harjola Veli‐Pekka , Heymans Stephane , Hill Loreena , Lainscak Mitja , Lam Carolyn S.P. , Lund Lars H. , Lyon Alexander R. , Mebazaa Alexandre , Mueller Christian , Paulus Walter J. , Pieske Burkert , Piepoli Massimo F. , Ruschitzka Frank , Rutten Frans H. , Seferovic Petar M. , Solomon Scott D. , Shah Sanjiv J. , Triposkiadis Filippos , Wachter Rolf , Tschöpe Carsten , de Boer Rudolf A.
Published: October 2017

There is an unmet need for effective treatment strategies to reduce morbidity and mortality in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Until recently, attention in patients with HFpEF was almost exclusively focused on the left side. However, it is now increasingly recognized that right heart dysfunction is common and contributes importantly to poor prognosis in HFpEF. More insights into the development of right heart dysfunction in HFpEF may aid to our knowledge about this complex disease and may eventually lead to better treatments to improve outcomes in these patients. In this position paper from the Heart Failure Association of the European Society of Cardiology, the Committee on Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction reviews the prevalence, diagnosis, and pathophysiology of right heart dysfunction and failure in patients with HFpEF. Finally, potential treatment strategies, important knowledge gaps and future directions regarding the right side in HFpEF are discussed.
Synthesis of Pyrrole‐Annulated Heterocycles through Copper‐Catalyzed Site‐Selective Dehydrogenative Cross‐Coupling
Authors: Tripathi Krishna N. , Ray Devalina , Singh Ravi P.
Published: October 2017

A method for the Cu‐catalyzed, intramolecular dehydrogenative cross‐coupling of 3‐substituted and 3,4‐disubstituted pyrrole–azole systems was developed. The C–H bond in the C2 position was site‐selectively activated over the C–H bond in the C5 position of unsymmetrically substituted pyrroles, and the six‐ and seven‐membered annulated pyrrole products were directly accessed in moderate to good yields.
Cultural variation in individuals' responses to incivility by perpetrators of different rank: The mediating role of descriptive and injunctive norms
Authors: Moon Chanki , Weick Mario , Uskul Ayse K.
Published: October 2017

The present research sought to establish how cultural settings create a normative context that determines individuals' reactions to subtle forms of mistreatment. Two experimental studies (n = 449) examined individuals' perceptions of high‐ and low‐ranking individuals' incivility in two national (Study 1) and two organizational (Study 2) cultural settings that varied in power distance. Consistent across studies, the uncivil actions of a high‐ranking perpetrator were deemed more acceptable than the uncivil actions of a low‐ranking perpetrator in the large power distance cultural settings, but not in the small power distance cultural settings. Differing injunctive norms (acceptability), but not descriptive norms (perceived likelihood of occurrence), contributed to cultural variations in the level of discomfort caused by incivility. In addition, perceptions of descriptive and injunctive norms coincided, but differed markedly in their associations with discomfort. We discuss the practical and theoretical implications of these findings.
Batch Injection Analysis‐Multiple Pulse Amperometric Fingerprint: A Simple Approach for Fast On‐site Screening of Drugs
Authors: Garcia Cardozo Camila , Melo Cardoso Rafael , Matheus Guimarães Selva Thiago , Evaristo de Carvalho Adriana , Torres Pio dos Santos Wallans , Regis Longo Cesar Paixão Thiago , Amorim Bezerra da Silva Rodrigo
Published: October 2017

In this work, the association of batch injection analysis with multiple pulse amperometric detection (BIA‐MPA) is presented as a new approach to obtain drugs fingerprints. To illustrate the potential of this screening method, tablets containing sildenafil as the active substance were used. Here, a sequence of three potential pulses as a function of time (+1.3, +1.6 and +2.1 V) were applied on a boron‐doped diamond electrode while reproducible injections were performed in a BIA cell (wall jet configuration). The chemical profile of the respective drug combined three ratios among the peak currents obtained in each amperogram: R1=ipa1.6V/ipa1.3V, R2=ipa2.1V/ipa1.6V, R3=ipa2.1V/ipa1.3V. This simple protocol allowed discrimination between Viagra® (reference)/generic and two smuggled tablets, as well as pure Viagra® from Viagra® adulterated with other electroactive compounds (caffeine, dipyrone, paracetamol and tadalafil). For comparison, screening of these samples was also performed using square wave voltammetry combined with a chemometric method (principal component analysis), in which was achieved similar discrimination by one or other strategy for the most of drugs. This new BIA‐MPA fingerprinting combines desirable features in forensic science such as low cost, simplicity, high sample throughput (two drugs discerned in less than 30 s) and portability (screening at the place of the seizure).
A new single‐urea‐bound 3,5‐dimethylphenylcarbamoylated β‐cyclodextrin chiral stationary phase and its enhanced separation performance in normal‐phase liquid chromatography
Authors: Lin Chun , Fan Jun , Liu Wenna , Chen Xiaodong , Ruan Lijun , Zhang Weiguang
Published: October 2017

A new single‐urea‐bound chiral stationary phase based on 3,5‐dimethylphenylcarbamoylated β‐cyclodextrin was prepared through the Staudinger reaction of mono (6A‐azido‐6A‐deoxy)‐per(3,5‐dimethylphenylcarbamoylated) β‐cyclodextrin and 3‐aminopropyl silica gel under CO2 atmosphere. The new phase exhibited good enantioseparation performance for 33 analytes using normal‐phase HPLC conditions; 19 of them were baseline separated. Effects of structure of analytes, alcoholic modifiers, and acidic/basic additives on separation performances of this new cyclodextrin chiral stationary phase have been studied in detail. The results showed that the retention and resolution of acidic and basic analytes on the CSP were greatly affected by the additives. Peak symmetry for some analytes could be improved by simultaneously adding acidic and basic additives to the mobile phase. This work expands the potential applications of the cyclodextrin‐based chiral stationary phases in the normal‐phase HPLC.
Potential application of Bacillus subtilis SPB1 biosurfactants in laundry detergent formulations: Compatibility study with detergent ingredients and washing performance
Authors: Bouassida Mouna , Fourati Nada , Ghazala Imen , Ellouze‐Chaabouni Semia , Ghribi Dhouha
Published: October 2017

Surfactants play a very important role in laundry and household cleaning products ingredients. In this research, the application of lipopeptide biosurfactants, produced by Bacillus subtilis SPB1, in the formulation of a washing powder was investigated. The SPB1 biosurfactant was mixed with sodium tripolyphosphate as a builder and sodium sulfate as filler. The efficiency of the formulated detergent composition with different washing conditions to remove a stain from cotton fabric was examined. The results showed that the formulated detergent was effective in oil removal, with optimal washing conditions of pH, temperature, striate and time of washing system of 7, 65°C, 1000 RPM and 60 min, respectively. A comparative study of different detergent compositions (biosurfactant‐based detergent, combined biosurfactant‐commercial detergent, and a commercial detergent) for the removal of oil and tea stains, proved that the bio‐scouring was more effective (>75%) in terms of the stain removal than the commercial powders (<60%). Moreover, the results demonstrated that the biosurfactant acts additively with a commercial detergent and enhances their performance from 33 to 45% in removing oil stain and from 57 to 64% in removing tea stain. As a conclusion, in addition to the low toxicity and the high biodegradability of the microbial biosurfactants, the results of this study have shown that the future use of this lipopeptide biosurfactant as laundry detergent additive is highly promising.
Comparative copper sensitivity between life stages of common subantarctic marine invertebrates
Authors: Holan Jessica R. , King Catherine K. , Davis Andrew R.
Published: October 2017

The development of environmental guidelines in the Antarctic and subantarctic is essential, because expansion of research, tourism, and fishing is placing these regions at increasing risk of contamination. Data are currently insufficient to create the region-specific guidelines needed for the unique conditions in these areas. To develop the most appropriate environmental guidelines, data from the most sensitive life stages of a species should be included to ensure effective protection throughout its life cycle. It is generally accepted that early life stages are more sensitive to contaminants. We compared the toxicity of copper between juvenile and adult life stages of 4 subantarctic marine invertebrates using sublethal and lethal endpoints. For 2 of the species tested, juveniles were more sensitive than adults. (The 7-d median effect concentration [EC50] values for the gastropod Laevilittorina caliginosa were 79 μg/L at the juvenile stage and 125 μg/L at the adult; for the flatworm Obrimoposthia ohlini, values were 190 μg/L at the juvenile stage and 300 μg/L at the adult.) For the isopod Limnoria stephenseni, juveniles were either more sensitive or of equal sensitivity to adults (7-d EC50 values: juvenile 278 μg/L and adult 320 μg/L). In contrast, for the bivalve Gaimardia trapesina, adults appeared to be more sensitive than young adults (7-d EC50 values: juvenile 23 μg/L and adult <10–20 μg/L). Although no consistent trend in the sensitivity of life history stages was observed, the present study contributes important information for the development of water quality guidelines in polar regions. Environ Toxicol Chem 2018;37:807–815. © 2017 SETAC

Abstract

Effect concentrations comparing life stages of subantarctic marine invertebrates.
Environmental variation causes different (co) evolutionary routes to the same adaptive destination across parasite populations
Authors: Auld Stuart K. J. R. , Brand June
Published: October 2017

Epidemics are engines for host-parasite coevolution, where parasite adaptation to hosts drives reciprocal adaptation in host populations. A key challenge is to understand whether parasite adaptation and any underlying evolution and coevolution is repeatable across ecologically realistic populations that experience different environmental conditions, or if each population follows a completely unique evolutionary path. We established twenty replicate pond populations comprising an identical suite of genotypes of crustacean host, Daphnia magna, and inoculum of their parasite, Pasteuria ramosa. Using a time-shift experiment, we compared parasite infection traits before and after epidemics and linked patterns of parasite evolution with shifts in host genotype frequencies. Parasite adaptation to the sympatric suite of host genotypes came at a cost of poorer performance on foreign genotypes across populations and environments. However, this consistent pattern of parasite adaptation was driven by different types of frequency-dependent selection that was contingent on an ecologically relevant environmental treatment (whether or not there was physical mixing of water within ponds). In unmixed ponds, large epidemics drove rapid and strong host-parasite coevolution. In mixed ponds, epidemics were smaller and host evolution was driven mainly by the mixing treatment itself; here, host evolution and parasite evolution were clear, but coevolution was absent. Population mixing breaks an otherwise robust coevolutionary cycle. These findings advance our understanding of the repeatability of (co)evolution across noisy, ecologically realistic populations.
Is Capacity Oversupply Too Much of a Good Thing?
Authors: Chen Jennifer
Published: October 2017

Capacity oversupply can inhibit the grid from embracing nimble, flexible, and customer‐friendly technologies. Oversupply brings down energy prices for generators while imposing excess total costs on consumers.1
Utility Grid Resiliency—What the Future Might Hold
Authors: DeCotis Paul A.
Published: October 2017

The US Department of Energy (DOE) released its Staff Report on Electricity Markets and Reliability in September to little fanfare and with accolades and criticism from many. The report was ordered by Energy Secretary Rick Perry in April to review the closure of “baseload” coal and nuclear power plants and “market‐distorting effects of federal subsidies that boost one form of energy at the expense of others.”
Paleoenvironmental reconstruction of an urban archaeological site: The Roman Salt mines of Vigo, northwest Iberia
Authors: Tallón‐Armada Rebeca , Costa‐Casais Manuela , Blanco‐Chao Ramón , Taboada Rodríguez Teresa , Martínez‐Cortizas Antonio
Published: October 2017

Pedostratigraphy applied to urban archaeological coastal sites, combined with coastal geomorphological and archaeological data, provide important information for interpreting the complexity of coastal urban areas and their environment. This paper applies this methodology in the case of the Roman salt mines of Vigo, northwest Spain, and presents geomorphological and geoarchaeological data (stratigraphy, physicochemical soil properties, mineralogy, radiocarbon dating) for the museum where these remains are located. A 2000 year pedostratigraphic sequence was reconstructed, showing coastal evolution from beach to marshland. This change, along with more favorable climatic conditions related to the Roman Warm Period and dynamics associated with late Holocene rising sea level, created suitable conditions for the establishment of a salt mine. Geoarchaeological work is essential in archaeological excavations of modern urban areas, as demonstrated at Vigo where the study of pedostratigraphy provides crucial information on past environmental changes and human activities. Pedostratigraphic records and archaeological remains should be considered part of the geological and cultural heritage of urban areas.
Shengli Oilfield, China as a natural analogue of CO2 storage: Diagenetic fluid evolution mode and potentials for carbon sequestration
Authors: Li Fulai , Li Wenshuai
Published: October 2017

The Shengli Oilfield is discussed to investigate CO2 trapping mechanisms involved in geothermal oil reservoir systems. Diagenetic fluid evolution of the dawsonite‐bearing sandstones from the Dongying Sag, Bohai Bay Basin, China, was studied to understand the CO2 migration and accumulation and the formation of dawsonite, as a possible mechanism for mineral trapping of CO2 in geothermal fields. Information about the petrology, dawsonite‐forming fluid, authigenic mineral associations, and diagenetic fluid evolution mode was analysed using techniques including thin‐section identification, scanning electron microscope observation, X‐ray diffraction analysis, X‐ray fluorescence spectrum analysis, hydrochemistry, and stable isotope analyses. The paragenetic sequence, from early to late, is early calcite (A)–compaction–dissolution–quartz overgrowth–late calcite (B1)–ferrocalcite (A)–dawsonite–late calcite (B2)–ferrocalcite (B)–ankerite–siderite or pyrite. The current in situ formation water type of the dawsonite‐bearing sandstone strata is NaHCO3, with the typical characteristics of weak alkaline, high mineralization, and high Na+ + K+ and HCO3− content. The formation fluid from which the dawsonite forms is mainly sealed underground brine, which has been affected by atmospheric precipitation and magmatic activity, and is thus mixed with surface meteoric water and subsurface hydrothermal fluid. The fluid evolution process sequence is alkaline fluid environment prior to CO2 influx, an early micritic or sparry calcite (A) association; acidic fluid environment after CO2 influx, a quartz overgrowth and kaolinite association; alkalescent fluid environment, an association of late calcite (B1), ferrocalcite (A), and illite; alkaline fluid environment, a dawsonite and late calcite (B2) association; and weak‐alkaline fluid environment, an association of ferrocalcite (B), ankerite, siderite, and pyrite.
Advantageous source–reservoir combination in siliciclastic–carbonate sedimentary systems in a saline lacustrine basin (Jiuquan Basin, NW China): Implications for prediction of tight oil enrichment
Authors: Guo Yingchun , Song Yan , Zhang Kaixun
Published: October 2017

Unconventional tight oil reservoirs have recently emerged as a significant source of oil worldwide, and juxtaposed to organic‐rich source rocks, tight mixed siliciclastic–carbonate sedimentary reservoirs are widely found. In China, such reservoirs are mainly found in saline lacustrine basins. In this paper, we conduct a systematic study on advantageous source–reservoir combinations (SRCs) in the Cretaceous Xiagou Formation in the Qingxi Sag of the Jiuquan Basin, a tight saline lacustrine and mixed siliciclastic–carbonate sedimentary oil reservoir. Mixed sediments result in multiple SRCs as follows: self‐contained SRC, thick interbedded‐type SRC, thin interbedded‐type SRC, and down generated‐up stored SRC. Geochemical characteristics of organic matter in the Cretaceous Xiagou Formation are established on the basis of Rock‐Eval pyrolysis and total organic carbon (TOC) and vitrinite reflectance analyses. TOC (0.5–4.12%, av. 1.62%) and S2 (0.36–26.63 mg/g, av. 5.62 mg/g) indicate a good hydrocarbon generative potential. The organic matters contain predominantly Type II kerogen with minor contributions from Type I kerogen. The samples analysed have vitrinite reflectance in the range of 0.65–1.0%Ro, and pyrolysis Tmax in the range of 430–450 °C indicate that the source rocks are early mature to mature and within the main stage of oil generation. The tight oil resources are divided into 4 classifications according to TOC versus S1 diagram, and dolomitic mudstone in lower K1g3 and K1g1 is primarily considered to be potentially generative and productive. Reservoir characterization such as porosity, permeability, and pore‐size distribution derived from nuclear magnetic resonance indicates that nano‐meter‐sized pores dominate pore size distribution, regardless of the lithology. Fractures contribute to the creation of relatively higher productivity reservoirs. The statistics of oil testing results shows that the daily oil productions increased basically from the down generated‐up stored SRCs to thin interbedded‐type SRCs to thick interbedded‐type SRCs to self‐contained SRCs. The movable oil saturations derived from nuclear magnetic resonance have the same changes as daily oil production. The self‐contained SRCs and the thick interbedded‐type SRCs are identified as advantageous SRCs that are important for tight oil prediction.
Epilepsy and astrocyte energy metabolism
Authors: Boison Detlev , Steinhäuser Christian
Published: October 2017

Epilepsy is a complex neurological syndrome characterized by neuronal hyperexcitability and sudden, synchronized electrical discharges that can manifest as seizures. It is now increasingly recognized that impaired astrocyte function and energy homeostasis play key roles in the pathogenesis of epilepsy. Excessive neuronal discharges can only happen, if adequate energy sources are made available to neurons. Conversely, energy depletion during seizures is an endogenous mechanism of seizure termination. Astrocytes control neuronal energy homeostasis through neurometabolic coupling. In this review, we will discuss how astrocyte dysfunction in epilepsy leads to distortion of key metabolic and biochemical mechanisms. Dysfunctional glutamate metabolism in astrocytes can directly contribute to neuronal hyperexcitability. Closure of astrocyte intercellular gap junction coupling as observed early during epileptogenesis limits activity‐dependent trafficking of energy metabolites, but also impairs clearance of the extracellular space from accumulation of K+ and glutamate. Dysfunctional astrocytes also increase the metabolism of adenosine, a metabolic product of ATP degradation that broadly inhibits energy‐consuming processes as an evolutionary adaptation to conserve energy. Due to the critical role of astroglial energy homeostasis in the control of neuronal excitability, metabolic therapeutic approaches that prevent the utilization of glucose might represent a potent antiepileptic strategy. In particular, high fat low carbohydrate “ketogenic diets” as well as inhibitors of glycolysis and lactate metabolism are of growing interest for the therapy of epilepsy.
The human PKP2/plakophilin‐2 gene is induced by Wnt/β‐catenin in normal and colon cancer‐associated fibroblasts
Authors: Niell Núria , Larriba María Jesús , Ferrer‐Mayorga Gemma , Sánchez‐Pérez Isabel , Cantero Ramón , Real Francisco X. , del Peso Luis , Muñoz Alberto , González‐Sancho José Manuel
Published: October 2017

Colorectal cancer results from the malignant transformation of colonic epithelial cells. Stromal fibroblasts are the main component of the tumour microenvironment, and play an important role in the progression of this and other neoplasias. Wnt/β‐catenin signalling is essential for colon homeostasis, but aberrant, constitutive activation of this pathway is a hallmark of colorectal cancer. Here we present the first transcriptomic study on the effect of a Wnt factor on human colonic myofibroblasts. Wnt3A regulates the expression of 1,136 genes, of which 662 are upregulated and 474 are downregulated in CCD‐18Co cells. A set of genes encoding inhibitors of the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway stand out among those induced by Wnt3A, which suggests that there is a feedback inhibitory mechanism. We also show that the PKP2 gene encoding the desmosomal protein Plakophilin‐2 is a novel direct transcriptional target of Wnt/β‐catenin in normal and colon cancer‐associated fibroblasts. PKP2 is induced by β‐catenin/TCF through three binding sites in the gene promoter and one additional binding site located in an enhancer 20 kb upstream from the transcription start site. Moreover, Plakophilin‐2 antagonizes Wnt/β‐catenin transcriptional activity in HEK‐293T cells, which suggests that it may act as an intracellular inhibitor of the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway. Our results demonstrate that stromal fibroblasts respond to canonical Wnt signalling and that Plakophilin‐2 plays a role in the feedback control of this effect suggesting that the response to Wnt factors in the stroma may modulate Wnt activity in the tumour cells.
Disrespect and abuse during childbirth in fourteen hospitals in nine cities of Peru
Authors: Montesinos‐Segura Reneé , Urrunaga‐Pastor Diego , Mendoza‐Chuctaya Giuston , Taype‐Rondan Alvaro , Helguero‐Santin Luis M. , Martinez‐Ninanqui Franklin W. , Centeno Dercy L. , Jiménez‐Meza Yanina , Taminche‐Canayo Ruth C. , Paucar‐Tito Liz , Villamonte‐Calanche Wilfredo
Published: October 2017

Objective

To assess the prevalence of disrespect and abuse during childbirth and its associated factors in Peru.

Methods

In an observational cross‐sectional study, women were surveyed within 48 hours of live delivery at 14 hospitals located in nine Peruvian cities between April and July 2016. The survey was based on seven categories of disrespect and abuse proposed by Bowser and Hill. To evaluate factors associated with each category, prevalence ratios (PRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using adjusted Poisson models with robust variances.

Results

Among 1528 participants, 1488 (97.4%) had experienced at least one category of disrespect and abuse. Frequency of abandonment of care was increased with cesarean delivery (PR 1.27, 95% CI 1.03–1.57) but decreased in the jungle region (PR 0.27, 0.14–0.53). Discrimination was associated with the jungle region (PR 5.67, 2.32–13.88). Physical abuse was less frequent with cesarean than vaginal delivery (PR 0.23, 0.11–0.49). The prevalences of abandonment of care (PR 0.42, 0.29–0.60), non‐consented care (PR 0.70, 0.57–0.85), discrimination (PR 0.40, 0.19–0.85), and non‐confidential care (PR 0.71, 0.55–0.93) were decreased among women who had been referred.

Conclusion

Nearly all participants reported having experienced at least one category of disrespect and abuse during childbirth care, which was associated with type of delivery, being referred, and geographic region.
Subchondral Trabecular Rod Loss and Plate Thickening in the Development of Osteoarthritis
Authors: Chen Yan , Hu Yizhong , Yu Y Eric , Zhang Xingjian , Watts Tezita , Zhou Bin , Wang Ji , Wang Ting , Zhao Weiwei , Chiu Kwong Yuen , Leung Frankie KL , Cao Xu , Macaulay William , Nishiyama Kyle K , Shane Elizabeth , Lu William W , Guo X Edward
Published: October 2017

Developing effective treatment for osteoarthritis (OA), a prevalent and disabling disease, has remained a challenge, primarily because of limited understanding of its pathogenesis and late diagnosis. In the subchondral bone, rapid bone loss after traumatic injuries and bone sclerosis at the advanced stage of OA are well-recognized hallmarks of the disease. Recent studies have further demonstrated the crucial contribution of subchondral bone in the development of OA. However, the microstructural basis of these bone changes has not been examined thoroughly, and the paradox of how abnormal resorption can eventually lead to bone sclerosis remains unanswered. By applying a novel microstructural analysis technique, individual trabecula segmentation (ITS), to micro-computed tomography (μCT) images of human OA knees, we have identified a drastic loss of rod-like trabeculae and thickening of plate-like trabeculae that persisted in all regions of the tibial plateau, underneath both severely damaged and still intact cartilage. The simultaneous reduction in trabecular rods and thickening of trabecular plates provide important insights to the dynamic and paradoxical subchondral bone changes observed in OA. Furthermore, using an established guinea pig model of spontaneous OA, we discovered similar trabecular rod loss and plate thickening that preceded cartilage degradation. Thus, our study suggests that rod-and-plate microstructural changes in the subchondral trabecular bone may play an important role in the development of OA and that advanced microstructural analysis techniques such as ITS are necessary in detecting these early but subtle changes. With emerging high-resolution skeletal imaging modalities such as the high-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT), trabecular rod loss identified by ITS could potentially be used as a marker in assessing the progression of OA in future longitudinal studies or clinical diagnosis. © 2017 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Prevalence of Osteoporosis and Low Bone Mass Among Puerto Rican Older Adults
Authors: Noel Sabrina E , Mangano Kelsey M , Griffith John L , Wright Nicole C , Dawson-Hughes Bess , Tucker Katherine L
Published: October 2017

Historically, osteoporosis has not been considered a public health priority for the Hispanic population. However, recent data indicate that Mexican Americans are at increased risk for this chronic condition. Although it is well established that there is heterogeneity in social, lifestyle, and health-related factors among Hispanic subgroups, there are currently few studies on bone health among Hispanic subgroups other than Mexican Americans. The current study aimed to determine the prevalence of osteoporosis and low bone mass (LBM) among 953 Puerto Rican adults, aged 47 to 79 years and living on the US mainland, using data from one of the largest cohorts on bone health in this population: The Boston Puerto Rican Osteoporosis Study (BPROS). Participants completed an interview to assess demographic and lifestyle characteristics and bone mineral density measures. To facilitate comparisons with national data, we calculated age-adjusted estimates for osteoporosis and LBM for Mexican American, non-Hispanic white, and non-Hispanic black adults, aged ≥50 years, from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). The overall prevalence of osteoporosis and LBM were 10.5% and 43.3% for participants in the BPROS, respectively. For men, the highest prevalence of osteoporosis was among those aged 50 to 59 years (11%) and lowest for men ≥70 years (3.7%). The age-adjusted prevalence of osteoporosis for Puerto Rican men was 8.6%, compared with 2.3% for non-Hispanic white, and 3.9% for Mexican American men. There were no statistically significant differences between age-adjusted estimates for Puerto Rican women (10.7%), non-Hispanic white women (10.1%), or Mexican American women (16%). There is a need to understand specific factors contributing to osteoporosis in Puerto Rican adults, particularly younger men. This will provide important information to guide the development of culturally and linguistically tailored interventions to improve bone health in this understudied and high-risk population. © 2017 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Let's not talk about sex
Authors: Love Melanie , Farber Barry A.
Published: October 2017

This article uses both a case illustration and data from a large‐scale survey of outpatient clients (N = 798) to understand the client's perspective about avoiding or being dishonest with his or her therapist about sexual topics. The case study, of a gay young man working with a heterosexual female therapist, explores this client's experience of what happens when it feels impossible to be forthcoming about sex and sexuality. Based on the findings of our study, we note clients’ motives for avoiding these intimate yet important areas (e.g., shame), their perception of how this impacts the therapy process (e.g., impedes clinical progress), and their sense of therapist responses and attitudes that could increase their ability to be more honest (“just ask”). We discuss ways in which therapists can facilitate a more open dialogue about sexual material while attending to clients’ concerns about doing so.
Unhealthy dependency in victims and perpetrators of child maltreatment: A meta‐analytic review
Authors: Kane Fallon A. , Bornstein Robert F.
Published: October 2017

Objective

Theoretical conceptualizations of interpersonal dependency and dependent personality disorder suggest that (a) high levels of dependency in parents may increase risk for perpetration of child abuse and neglect and (b) children who are victimized may show elevated levels of dependency later in life. This study used meta‐analytic techniques to examine these hypothesized links.

Method

A systematic search of psychological and medical online databases revealed 14 published studies (21 effect sizes) examining the link between parental dependency and perpetration of abuse or neglect (overall N of perpetrators = 1,321), and 14 published studies (25 effect sizes) assessing dependency in victims of child abuse and neglect (overall N of victims = 38,265).

Results

The dependency–abuse effect size (d) for perpetrators collapsed across all moderating variables was 0.36, which is considered to be in the medium range. The dependency–victimization effect size (d) collapsed across all moderating variables was 0.29, also a medium effect size.

Conclusion

These results support and extend analyses of the relationship between dependency and child maltreatment, and suggest that dependency may be both a precipitant of child maltreatment and consequence of victimization. Theoretical and clinical implications are discussed, with suggestions for further research outlined.