bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the issue of juvenile delinquency: the current state and features in modern conditions
Authors: Serenko Roman Sergeevich , Yakovleva Elena Olegovna
Published: November 2024

The subject of this article is juvenile delinquency, its condition and certain aspects of determination in modern conditions. The article analyzes the personality characteristics of juvenile offenders, their susceptibility to the influence of external factors, as well as certain issues of determining juvenile delinquency due to cases of unjustified use of the institution of probation in practice. Attention is paid to statistical data, the analysis of which allows us to establish a clear downward trend in both the number of crimes committed annually by minors and their share in the total mass of crimes committed. The relevance of the stated research topic is related to the need to study the specifics of bringing minors to criminal responsibility in connection with the specifics of this category of criminals and the need to minimize criminal actions on their part. The need to study issues related to juvenile delinquency clearly takes place in modern conditions, especially in the light of the increase in the population of the Russian Federation as a result of the annexation of new territories. The novelty of the study consists in the presentation and research of statistical data on juvenile delinquency in the Russian Federation, as well as the formulation and analysis of problematic aspects of the application of the institution of probation to minors in its current form. In the light of the accession of new regions to the territory of the Russian Federation, this topic requires detailed study in order to exclude the likelihood of an increase in crimes committed by minors as a result of placing them in conditions with new legal realities for them. The main conclusions of the study are the statement about the need for further scientific research of options for optimizing the legislative regulation of the institution of conditional sentencing of minors, which in the future can contribute to the continuation of the trend towards an annual decrease in the number of crimes committed by minors, as well as generally have a positive impact on crime prevention activities in the country.
Distinct mechanisms of inhibition of Kv2 potassium channels by tetraethylammonium and RY785
Authors: Zhang Shan , Stix Robyn , Orabi Esam A , Bernhardt Nathan , Faraldo-Gómez José D
Published: November 2024

Voltage-gated K
+
channels play central roles in human physiology, both in health and disease. A repertoire of inhibitors that are both potent and specific would therefore be of great value, not only as pharmacological agents but also as research tools. The small molecule RY785 has been described as particularly promising in this regard, as it selectively inhibits channels in the Kv2 subfamily with high potency. Kv2 channels are expressed in multiple cell types in humans, and are of particular importance for neuronal function. The mechanism of action of RY785 has not yet been determined at the molecular level, but functional studies indicate it differs from that of less specific inhibitors, such as quaternary-ammonium compounds or aminopyridines; RY785 is distinct also in that it is electroneutral. To examine this mechanism at the single-molecule level, we have carried out a series of all-atom molecular dynamics simulations based on the experimental structure of the Kv2.1 channel in the activated, open state. First, we report a 25-microsecond trajectory calculated in the absence of any inhibitor, under an applied voltage of 100 mV, which demonstrates outward K
+
flow under simulation conditions at rates comparable to experimental measurements. Additional simulations in which either RY785 or tetraethylammonium (TEA) is introduced in solution show both inhibitors spontaneously enter the channel through the cytoplasmic gate, with distinct effects. In agreement with prior structural studies, we observe that TEA binds to a site adjacent to the selectivity filter, on the pore axis, thereby blocking the flow of K
+
ions. RY785, by contrast, binds to the channel walls, off-axis, and allows K
+
flow while the cytoplasmic gate remains open. The observed mode of RY785 binding, however, indicates that its mechanism of action is to stabilize and occlude a semi-open state of the gate, by bridging hydrophobic protein-protein interactions therein; this hypothesis would explain the puzzling experimental observation that RY785 recognition influences the gating currents generated by the voltage sensors, 3 nm away.
A new moradisaurine captorhinid reptile (Amniota: Eureptilia) from the upper Permian of India
Authors: Reisz Robert R. , Chatterjee Sankar , Modesto Sean P.
Published: November 2024

Upper Permian rocks of the former supercontinent Gondwana record climax late Paleozoic terrestrial vertebrate faunas that were dominated numerically and ecologically by therapsid synapsids. Older faunal elements of earlier Paleozoic faunas, such as captorhinid reptiles, are rare and scattered components of the first amniote faunas to inhabit high-latitude regions. Here we describe a new genus and species of moradisaurine captorhinid that represents an archaic faunal element of the high-fibre herbivore fauna of the late Permian of what is now peninsular India. The presence of a relatively broad parietal and three rows of conical teeth on the maxilla and the dentary distinguishesIndosauriscus kuttyigen. et sp. nov. from other moradisaurines. The hypodigm ofI. kuttyicomprises skulls that range in length from 39 mm to 54 mm, and high ossification of the braincase elements and well developed skull-roof sutures, indicate thatI. kuttyiadults were smaller than those of most moradisaurines. Results of our phylogenetic analyses suggest that moradisaurines, despite appearing first in the paleotropics, dispersed into temperate, high-latitude regions of Pangea early in their evolutionary history. Moradisaurines in dicynodont-dominated faunas, viz.Indosauriscus kuttyiandGansurhinus naobaogouensis, were the smallest high-fibre herbivores in their respective faunas. This suggests that small body size may have evolved in these moradisaurines as they co-evolved with the more numerous and diverse dicynodont therapsids.
Logística de distribuição de produtos farmacêuticos no estado do Amazonas
Authors: Sousa Rodrigo da Silva , Rodriguez Carlos Manuel Taboada
Published: November 2024

Na logística fluvial da Amazônia, a distribuição de medicamentos e produtos para saúde enfrenta desafios significativos, exigindo dos gestores a constante busca por redução de impactos à população e melhoria na eficiência operacional. O estudo será conduzido em uma empresa sediada na cidade de Manaus/AM e terá como foco o processo que se inicia na área de expedição do centro de distribuição até a entrega ao cliente. As etapas de transporte e distribuição de medicamentos e produtos para saúde são realizadas de acordo aos processos da transportadora, responsável por garantir a qualidade dos medicamentos. Para realizar esse estudo, será desenvolvido um mapeamento de processos utilizando notação para modelagem de processos de negócio denominado BPMN (Business Process Model and Notation) ao qual estabelece um padrão para representar os processos por gráficos e diagramas. Além disso, será empregado a simulação digital na avaliação de desempenho do processo atual, análise crítica dos processos mapeados em conformidade com a legislação vigente e propor melhorias a partir do mapeamento e análise crítica.
Processos cotidianos de organização do trabalho nas feiras livres da Transamazônica
Authors: Silva Linco da Cruz , Santos Franklin Rúsivel Silva , Lima Madson Luan Silva , Oliveira Mauricio de Souza , Correia Maíra de Souza , Araújo Maysa Lorrane Medeiros de , Cordeiro Cláudia Barbosa , Lobato Alexandre Augusto Cardoso
Published: November 2024

O estudo analisou os processos de organização do trabalho nas feiras livres da Transamazônica, um elemento crucial para a dinâmica socioeconômica da região, onde o acesso a mercados formais é limitado e a comercialização direta de produtos agrícolas e artesanais desempenha um papel central na economia local. O objetivo geral foi avaliar como esses processos são organizados em feiras de quatro municípios da região, destacando fatores que influenciam a sustentabilidade e a segurança alimentar. Utilizando uma abordagem qualitativa, foram aplicados questionários semiestruturados aos feirantes de Anapu, Altamira, Brasil Novo e Medicilândia, em maio de 2023. Os resultados mostraram que 86% das feiras operam diariamente, com 59% dos produtos sendo de produção própria, evidenciando a importância da agricultura familiar. No entanto, 73% dos feirantes relataram perdas por falta de vendas, e 54% não participam de cooperativas ou associações, indicando desafios na gestão e comercialização dos produtos. Além disso, a maioria dos feirantes baseia a precificação em pesquisas de mercado (59%), mas há uma significativa dependência do custo de produção. Conclui-se que, embora as feiras livres desempenhem um papel essencial na economia local, há necessidade de melhorias na infraestrutura, maior apoio técnico e políticas públicas para reduzir as perdas e aumentar a integração dos feirantes em organizações coletivas.
Trends and Patterns in Indo-ASEAN Agricultural Trade: Evidence from India (2013-2022)
Authors: Saikia Chayanika , Gogoi Manashi
Published: November 2024

The study investigates the trade dynamics between India and ASEAN, focusing on agricultural trade from 2013-2022. The study examines the growing trade relations with ASEAN in the case of merchandise and agricultural trade. The study's primary objective is to evaluate trends and variations in trade flows, identify growth patterns, and assess trade intensity. Utilizing the Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR), Coefficient of Variation (CV), and Trade Intensity Index, the analysis reveals significant findings that India experienced a consistent trade deficit in agricultural commodities with ASEAN, peaking in 2022. The CAGR for imports (2.2%) and exports (-2.11%) highlights a slower growth rate in agricultural exports than imports. CV analysis shows notable variability in trade values, indicating fluctuating export-import patterns. The Trade Intensity Index results illustrate a higher import intensity than export intensity, underscoring ASEAN’s strong export position relative to India. These insights provide crucial guidance for policymakers to strengthen India’s agricultural trade strategies and address the trade imbalance within the ASEAN region.
Assessment of Water Quality in Pangani, Kayole and Dandora Boreholes in Nairobi County, Kenya
Authors: Roble Fardowsa Abdullahi , Yusuf Amir Okeyo , Wafula Godfrey Angoe , Were Farida Hussein
Published: November 2024

This study was done to assess the physical-chemical properties of some boreholes in Pangani, Dandora and Kayole in Nairobi County, to assess the content of some heavy metals in some boreholes in Pangani, Dandora and Kayole and to determine the bacteriological quality of the water. These were checked for compliance as per the World Health Organization’s guideline values. Borehole water samples were collected from Dandora, Kayole and Pangani. Water parameters determined included electrical conductivity, total suspended solids, total dissolved solids, pH, fluoride, chloride, ammonia, nitrate, Escherichia-coli, total count and analysis of some selected heavy metal ions. The measurements of pH, fluoride, and electrical conductivity were made by an ion-selective electrode. The determinations of total dissolved solids and total suspended solids were made by the gravimetric method. The titration method was used to quantify chloride, while ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometer was used to measure ammonia and nitrate. E. coli and total counts were ascertained by the biological method. Heavy metals were measured using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. All boreholes met the guideline values of WHO with regard to pH, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, chloride and ammonia. Total suspended solids were found to be above the recommended limits of WHO. Nitrate values in all the borehole conformed to the WHO guidelines. Escherichia coli conformed to WHO guideline except at Pangani Borehole 2. Total coliforms did not conform to the set WHO limit values. The concentration of zinc conformed with the set limit values except that of Pangani Borehole 1, Pangani Borehole 2 and Pangani Borehole 3. Concentrations of lead and cadmium in all the boreholes did not conform to the WHO guideline values. It is recommended that the boreholes at Dandora, Kayole and Pangani should not be used for drinking by humans since these heavy metal ions found in the boreholes have a detrimental effect on human health.
Relationship between the Profile of Soybean Growers and their Knowledge and Adoption of Liquid Biofertilizer in Marathwada Region of Maharashtra
Authors: Kamble Prashil , Kapse Pravin Sharadchandra , Kadam Rajesh Prabhatrao , Deshmukh Prashant Rangnathrao , Puri Shankar Ganpatrao
Published: November 2024

The study “Knowledge and adoption of liquid biofertilizers among the soybean growers” was conducted to delineate the relationship between profile of soybean growers with their knowledge and adoption of liquid biofertilizers in Parbhani district of Marathwada region of Maharashtra state. 120 respondents were randomly selected for the present study from 12 villages of 2 talukas of Parbhani district. Data were collected using a well-structured interview schedule. There were two dependent variables namely “knowledge” and “adoption” and ten independent variables. Data were analysed by using frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation and Pearson’s coefficient of correlation. According to the profile of soybean growers, majority of the soybean growers were educated up to Middle school level (29.17%), having small land holdings (40.83%), with medium annual income (89.17%), area under soybean cultivation (71.67 %), extension contact (70.00 %), level of social participation (55.83%), economic motivation (70.00%), risk orientation (64.17%), using medium source of information (74.17%), and belonged to medium innovativeness (72.50%). According to correlation analysis, Education, Source of information and Innovativeness of soybean growers showed positive and highly significant relationship with their knowledge and adoption of liquid biofertilizer technology. Area under soybean cultivation, Extension contact, Social participation, Economic motivation, and Risk orientation of soybean growers showed positive and significant relationship with knowledge and adoption about liquid biofertilizer technology. Land holding and annual income of soybean growers showed non-significant relationship with the knowledge and adoption about liquid biofertilizer technology.
Status of Grain Discoloration Disease in Paddy Growing Ecosystems of Karnataka, India
Authors: H Sharanabasav, , S. K Jayalakshmi , S Gururaj , N. R Harischandra , Pampangouda  , H Pushpa , S.T Yenjerappa , D Pramesh
Published: November 2024

Among different diseases that affect rice crops, grain discoloration disease (GD) is one of the emerging diseases in all rice cultivating areas around the world. Though the disease has recently emerged, it is catching the attention of the scientific and farming community due to its qualitative and quantitative loss. Since the disease is a highly complex disease caused by multiple pathogens, thus its management is challenging. As the disease is still in the emerging stage, its incidence and severity in different rice ecosystems are still not available.  Assessment of disease incidence, severity, and yield loss is very crucial for disease management. We carried out an intensive roving survey to assess the incidence of GD across Karnataka. An intensive roving survey was conducted across 130 villages, covering 192 paddy-growing locations and 14 districts of six major rice-growing ecosystems in Karnataka state, India. The highest disease incidence (98) was recorded in Sutturu village of Nanjanagud Taluk of Mysuru District of Kaveri ecosystem. In contrast, the lowest disease incidence (3) was recorded in the Kadakal village of Shahpur taluk of Yadgir District of Upper Krisha Project (UKP) of Karnataka state. Among six distinct ecosystems, the highest mean disease incidence was recorded in the coastal ecosystem (85.11), followed by the Kaveri ecosystem (74.34), which is considered a hot spot for GD incidence. Upper Krishna Project (UKP) and Thunga Bhadra Project (TBP) are considered less risky regions for GD. Analyzing hotspots for GD in Karnataka aids in formulating ecosystems and ecologically specific disease management practices. This study also helps to identify rice cultivars distributed and the disease incidence observed. The highest disease incidence was recorded in bold-seeded cultivars such as Jyothi, KCP-1, Sahyadri Panchamukhi, MO-4, MTU-1001, Kempu Jyothi, Kaje 25-9, Kaje Jaya, Godavari, IR-64, Meenakshi, Sahyadri Kempumukthi, Abhilash, Guttasale, Gandhasale, Uma with more than 90 disease incidence. Whereas the lowest disease incidence was recorded in small and slender seeded cultivars such as Cross Sona, Sona and Gandu Sona, RNR-15048, Nellore Sona, MTU-1010, BPT-5204 recording < 10 disease incidence. This is the first intensive study to document the status of GD in the distinct rice ecosystems of Karnataka.
Productivity Enhancement in Blackgram (Vigna mungo L.) through Foliar Application of Potassium Salt of Active Phosphorus (PSAP)
Authors: K Hemavathi , G J Shimi , P Shalini Pillai , Raj Sheeja K , Gopinath Pratheesh P , K Gangadhar
Published: November 2024

A field experiment was conducted at the Instructional Farm, College of Agriculture, Vellayani during December 2023 to March 2024, to assess the performance of blackgram in terms of yield. The field experiment was laid out in Factorial Randomized Complete Block Design (FRCBD) with 12 different treatment combinations and one control treatment, which were replicated thrice. The treatments comprised of two fertilizer sources (s1- nano-DAP, s2- PSAP), three concentrations (c1- 0.1%, c2- 0.2 % and c3- 0.4 %) and two nutrient levels (l1- 100% RDN and l2- 75% RDN) which were compared against a control (KAU POP). The treatment s2 (PSAP) showed earliness in reaching days to 50 % flowering and highest in number of pods per plant, pod length, pod weight, number of seeds per pod, pod yield and seed yield compared to s1. Among concentrations 0.4 % (c3) took lesser days to reach 50 % flowering and highest in number of pods per plant, pod length, pod weight, number of seeds per pod, pod yield and seed yield compared to c1. Whereas in nutrient levels 100 % RDN (l1) recorded highest in seed yield compared to 75 % RDN (l2) in blackgram.
Proof of the weak gravity conjecture from black hole entropy
Authors: Cheung Clifford , Liu Junyu , Remmen Grant N.
Published: October 2018

Abstract

We prove that higher-dimension operators contribute positively to the entropy of a thermodynamically stable black hole at fixed mass and charge. Our results apply whenever the dominant corrections originate at tree level from quantum field theoretic dynamics. More generally, positivity of the entropy shift is equivalent to a certain inequality relating the free energies of black holes. These entropy inequalities mandate new positivity bounds on the coefficients of higher-dimension operators. One of these conditions implies that the charge-to-mass ratio of an extremal black hole asymptotes to unity from above for increasing mass. Consequently, large extremal black holes are unstable to decay to smaller extremal black holes and the weak gravity conjecture is automatically satisfied. Our findings generalize to arbitrary spacetime dimension and to the case of multiple gauge fields. The assumptions of this proof are valid across a range of scenarios, including string theory constructions with a dilaton stabilized below the string scale.
Thermalization, viscosity and the averaged null energy condition
Authors: Delacrétaz Luca V. , Hartman Thomas , Hartnoll Sean A. , Lewkowycz Aitor
Published: October 2018

Abstract

We explore the implications of the averaged null energy condition for thermal states of relativistic quantum field theories. A key property of such thermal states is the thermalization length. This lengthscale generalizes the notion of a mean free path beyond weak coupling, and allows finite size regions to independently thermalize. Using the eigenstate thermalization hypothesis, we show that thermal fluctuations in finite size ‘fireballs’ can produce states that violate the averaged null energy condition if the thermalization length is too short or if the shear viscosity is too large. These bounds become very weak with a large number N of degrees of freedom but can constrain real-world systems, such as the quark-gluon plasma.
Global testing of shifts in metabolic phenotype
Authors: Fazelzadeh Parastoo , Hoefsloot Huub C. J. , Hankemeier Thomas , Most Jasper , Kersten Sander , Blaak Ellen E. , Boekschoten Mark , van Duynhoven John
Published: October 2018

Introduction

Current metabolomics approaches to unravel impact of diet- or lifestyle induced phenotype variation and shifts predominantly deploy univariate or multivariate approaches, with a posteriori interpretation at pathway level. This however often provides only a fragmented view on the involved metabolic pathways.

Objectives

To demonstrate the feasibility of using Goeman’s global test (GGT) for assessment of variation and shifts in metabolic phenotype at the level of a priori defined pathways.

Methods

Two intervention studies with identified phenotype variations and shifts were examined. In a weight loss (WL) intervention study obese subjects received a mixed meal challenge before and after WL. In a polyphenol (PP) intervention study obese subjects received a high fat mixed meal challenge (61E% fat) before and after a PP intervention. Plasma samples were obtained at fasting and during the postprandial response. Besides WL- and PP-induced phenotype shifts, also correlation of plasma metabolome with phenotype descriptors was assessed at pathway level. The plasma metabolome covered organic acids, amino acids, biogenic amines, acylcarnitines and oxylipins.

Results

For the population of the WL study, GGT revealed that HOMA correlated with the fasting levels of the TCA cycle, BCAA catabolism, the lactate, arginine–proline and phenylalanine–tyrosine pathways. For the population of the PP study, HOMA correlated with fasting metabolite levels of TCA cycle, fatty acid oxidation and phenylalanine–tyrosine pathways. These correlations were more pronounced for metabolic pathways in the fasting state, than during the postprandial response. The effect of the WL and PP intervention on a priori defined metabolic pathways, and correlation of pathways with insulin sensitivity as described by HOMA was in line with previous studies.

Conclusion

GGT confirmed earlier biological findings in a hypothesis led approach. A main advantage of GGT is that it provides a direct view on involvement of a priori defined pathways in phenotype shifts.
Absorbed Residue Evidence for PrehistoricDaturaUse in the American Southeast and Western Mexico
Authors: King Adam , Powis Terry G. , Cheong Kong F. , Deere Bobi , Pickering Robert B. , Singleton Eric , Gaikwad Nilesh W.
Published: October 2018

Absorbed residue studies have been used in subsistence research for decades. Only more recently have the chemical methods employed been used to explore the consumption of ritual concoctions such as those including cacao, yaupon holly, and alcohol. In this article we use mass spectrometry to identifyDaturaresidues in prehistoric contexts from western Mexico and the American Southeast.Daturais a genus of flowering plants that contain hallucinogenic alkaloids. Their use in both regions is known historically and still continues today. This study sampled 55 pottery vessels and 18 shell vessels using both a traditional burr method and a water-based sonicator sampling method.Daturaresidues were found in 13 pottery vessels and 14 shell vessels using both sampling approaches. These results demonstrate that it is possible to identifyDaturaresidue in pottery and shell vessels and that the use ofDaturaextends back into prehistory in both regions. The form and decoration of pottery vessels withDaturaresidues show correlations with specific motifs and themes. Historically, shell vessels were used in the Southeast for the consumption of another ritual beverage, called the Black Drink. The presence ofDaturashows that those vessels were used for other kinds of beverages as well.
Whole-genome sequencing for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) outbreak investigation in a neonatal intensive care unit
Authors: Madigan Theresa , Cunningham Scott A. , Patel Robin , Greenwood-Quaintance Kerryl E. , Barth Jean E. , Sampathkumar Priya , Cole Nicolynn C. , Kohner Peggy C. , Colby Christopher E. , Asay Garth F. , Fang Jennifer L. , Baker Christine A. , Heinrich Angela L. , Fjerstad Kelly A. , Lujero Maria J. , Chia Nicholas , Jeraldo Patricio R. , Nelson Heidi , Huskins W. Charles
Published: October 2018

Objective

To evaluate whole-genome sequencing (WGS) as a molecular typing tool for MRSA outbreak investigation.

Design

Investigation of MRSA colonization/infection in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) over 3 years (2014–2017).

Setting

Single-center level IV NICU.

Patients

NICU infants and healthcare workers (HCWs).

Methods

Infants were screened for MRSA using a swab of the anterior nares, axilla, and groin, initially by targeted (ring) screening, and later by universal weekly screening. Clinical cultures were collected as indicated. HCWs were screened once using swabs of the anterior nares. MRSA isolates were typed using WGS with core-genome multilocus sequence typing (cgMLST) analysis and by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). Colonized and infected infants and HCWs were decolonized. Control strategies included reinforcement of hand hygiene, use of contact precautions, cohorting, enhanced environmental cleaning, and remodeling of the NICU.

Results

We identified 64 MRSA-positive infants: 53 (83%) by screening and 11 (17%) by clinical cultures. Of 85 screened HCWs, 5 (6%) were MRSA positive. WGS of MRSA isolates identified 2 large clusters (WGS groups 1 and 2), 1 small cluster (WGS group 3), and 8 unrelated isolates. PFGE failed to distinguish WGS group 2 and 3 isolates. WGS groups 1 and 2 were codistributed over time. HCW MRSA isolates were primarily in WGS group 1. New infant MRSA cases declined after implementation of the control interventions.

Conclusion

We identified 2 contemporaneous MRSA outbreaks alongside sporadic cases in a NICU. WGS was used to determine strain relatedness at a higher resolution than PFGE and was useful in guiding efforts to control MRSA transmission.
Management and Organization ReviewSpecial Issue ‘Social Networks ‒ The Dark and Bright Sides of Informal Networks’
Authors: Horak Sven , Afiouni Fid , Bian Yanjie , Ledeneva Alena , Muratbekova-Touron Maral , Fey Carl
Published: October 2018

Research on the mechanisms of organizing and managing via interpersonal relations has a rich history in the management and organization-oriented literature. So far, however, the informal dimension of managing and organizing by drawing on informal networks in an international context has received comparably less attention. Recent research has pointed out that social capital and network theories have largely been developed by Western scholars based on circumstances and social structures that are typical of Western societies. Thus, current theory takes into account to a lesser extent their character and nature and the way in which informal ties and networks are formed in other parts of the world (Ledeneva, 2018; Li, 2007b; Qi, 2013; Sato, 2010). Besides the growing body of literature concerned with informal ties and networks in emerging and transitioning countries, for exampleguanxi(China),blat/svyazi(Russia), andwasta(Arab World), a trend for analyzing pervasive informal networks in advanced and industrialized economies, such asyongo(Korea), has arisen. While insights from the latter research stream indicate that informal networks persist, the results generated in both research streams will help in developing the extant informal network theories further.
Overview of the oxygen isotope systematics of land snails from North America
Authors: Yanes Yurena , Al-Qattan Nasser M. , Rech Jason A. , Pigati Jeffrey S. , Dodd Justin P. , Nekola Jeffrey C.
Published: October 2018

Continental paleoclimate proxies with near-global coverage are rare. Land snail δ18O is one of the few proxies abundant in Quaternary sediments ranging from the tropics to the high Arctic tundra. However, its application in paleoclimatology remains difficult, attributable in part to limitations in published calibration studies. Here we present shell δ18O of modern small (<10 mm) snails across North America, from Florida (30°N) to Manitoba (58°N), to examine the main climatic controls on shell δ18O at a coarse scale. This transect is augmented by published δ18O values, which expand our coverage from Jamaica (18°N) to Alaska (64°N). Results indicate that shell δ18O primarily tracks the average annual precipitation δ18O. Shell δ18O increases 0.5–0.7‰ for every 1‰ increase in precipitation δ18O, and 0.3–0.7‰ for every 1°C increase in temperature. These relationships hold true when all taxa are included regardless of body size (ranging from ~1.6 to ~58 mm), ecology (herbivores, omnivores, and carnivores), or behavior (variable seasonal active periods and mobility habits). Future isotopic investigations should include calibration studies in tropical and high-latitude settings, arid environments, and along altitudinal gradients to test if the near linear relationship between shell and meteoric precipitation δ18O observed on a continental scale remains significant.
Quantification of dissolved organic14C-containing compounds by accelerator mass spectrometry in a corrosion experiment with irradiated steel
Authors: Cvetković Benjamin Z , Salazar Gary , Kunz Dominik , Tits Jan , Szidat Sönke , Wieland Erich
Published: October 2018

Low- and intermediate-level (L/ILW) radioactive waste produced in Switzerland consists of large amounts of14C-containing irradiated steel.14C will be released during the anoxic corrosion of the steel in the cementitious near field of an L/ILW repository. In this study, a corrosion experiment with irradiated steel was carried out to determine the speciation of14C released during the corrosion process in conditions similar to those anticipated in the near field of a cement-based repository. The development of the experimental setup, including installation of the reactor and development of suitable analytical methods based on compound-specific14C analysis with accelerator mass spectrometry (CSRA AMS) is reported. Time-dependent increase in the total content of14C-bearing organic compounds in solution (TO14C) was determined by AMS and the main organic corrosion products that are14C-bearing formate, acetate and lactate were identified by CSRA AMS after a pre-concentration step. The concentration of the14C-bearing organic compounds was found to be very low (fmol to pmol14C/L). Stable carbon compounds were identified and quantified while the source of stable carbon in the system has not yet been identified and the temporal evolution of the concentration of these carbon species is presently not understood.
ROOM FOR IDEAS: TRACING NON-DOMESTIC ROUNDHOUSES
Authors: Romankiewicz Tanja
Published: October 2018

Iron Age studies in Britain operate in a world populated by roundhouses. Post-ring evidence is generally interpreted in domestic contexts. However, research on later prehistoric roundhouses in north-east Scotland has identified a small yet significant number of round structures in unusual locations, with unusual architectural details and a distinct lack of domestic material. Some of these relate to Chalcolithic and Early Bronze Age stone circles, for which Richard Bradley’s work in the wider region has highlighted progressive biographies of construction and reuse. This paper, rooted in architectural design theory, selects a particular case study – the multiple timber post-rings at Candle Stane (in Aberdeenshire) – to highlight the complexities in interpreting these fascinating and enigmatic buildings. The architectural approach develops alternative reconstructions that lead to new perspectives on later prehistoric architecture as event-based and concerned with process. These processes only gradually lead to an architectural end-product, which displays distinctly non-domestic connotations. The research not only highlights the usefulness of data derived from rescue work for academic study, but the advocated approach of reconstructing in alternatives also lends itself to developing innovative approaches in Higher Education to teach visual competence.
OPTIMAL STOPPING FOR THE LAST EXIT TIME
Authors: REN DAN
Published: October 2018

Given a one-dimensional downwards transient diffusion process $X$, we consider a random time $\unicode[STIX]{x1D70C}$, the last exit time when $X$ exits a certain level $\ell$, and detect the optimal stopping time for it. In particular, for this random time $\unicode[STIX]{x1D70C}$, we solve the optimisation problem $\inf _{\unicode[STIX]{x1D70F}}\mathbb{E}[\unicode[STIX]{x1D706}(\unicode[STIX]{x1D70F}-\unicode[STIX]{x1D70C})_{+}+(1-\unicode[STIX]{x1D706})(\unicode[STIX]{x1D70C}-\unicode[STIX]{x1D70F})_{+}]$ over all stopping times $\unicode[STIX]{x1D70F}$. We show that the process should stop optimally when it runs below some fixed level $\unicode[STIX]{x1D705}_{\ell }$ for the first time, where $\unicode[STIX]{x1D705}_{\ell }$ is the unique solution in the interval $(0,\unicode[STIX]{x1D706}\ell )$ of an explicitly defined equation.
Bringing sustainable seafood back to the table: exploring chefs’ knowledge, attitudes and practices in Peru
Authors: López De La Lama Rocio , De La Puente Santiago , Valdés-Velásquez Armando
Published: October 2018

Conservation organizations promoting sustainable seafood have had greater success when chefs are empowered as agents of change in favour of sustainable seafood. Peru is experiencing a gastronomic revolution with seafood at its core, and Peruvian top chefs are being approached by conservation organizations to become environmental advocates. Within this context we characterize the factors that influence chefs’ behaviours regarding sustainable seafood. A total of 52 Peruvian top chefs were surveyed using the Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices Framework, complemented by a focus group with a subset of the surveyed population. Our results suggest that, regardless of their age or academic background, chefs are aware of the negative consequences that human activities have on the ocean and believe that restaurants have an obligation to become part of the solution by promoting the use of sustainable seafood. Nonetheless, three factors limit chefs’ understanding of key concepts and prevent them from fully internalizing the environmental consequences of their actions in restaurants: (1) sustainability is a new topic for them, particularly for older chefs; (2) the fish species commonly used at restaurants are poorly regulated, and (3) chefs are risk averse to actions that could result in profit loss. Additionally, the structure of the seafood supply chain further limits chefs’ capacity to act sustainably, even if they are aware of the need to change their behaviour. Recommendations are provided for future conservation campaigns advocating use of sustainable seafood, some of which have now been implemented.
Uqsuqtuurmiut inuita tuktumi qaujimaningit(Inuit knowledge of caribou from Gjoa Haven, Nunavut): Collaborative research contributions to co-management efforts
Authors: Ljubicic Gita , Okpakok Simon , Robertson Sean , Mearns Rebecca
Published: October 2018

Caribou (tuktuit) are embedded in northern life, and have been part of Inuit culture and seasonal rounds for generations. InInuit Nunangat(Inuit homelands),tuktuitare the most prevalent of country foods consumed, and remain interconnected with Inuit values, beliefs and practices. Despite co-management mandates to consider Inuit and scientific knowledge equally, the intertwined colonial legacies of research and wildlife management render this challenging. In Uqsuqtuuq (Gjoa Haven, Nunavut), community members identified the importance of documenting Inuit knowledge in order to be taken more seriously by researchers and government managers. To address this priority we worked with Uqsuqtuurmiut (people of Uqsuqtuuq) to articulate which types oftuktuitare found on or near Qikiqtaq (King William Island), provide a historical perspective oftuktuitpresence/absence in the region, and describe seasonal movements oftuktuiton and off the island. In reflecting on potential intersections of our work with the Government of Nunavut strategy “Working Together for Caribou”, we identify several considerations in support ofQanuqtuurniq(information and knowledge acquisition): defining information needs, recognising and valuing Inuit knowledge, and developing and implementing credible research. By sharing lessons from our collaborative process we aim to contribute to broader cross-cultural research and co-management efforts in Nunavut.
THE ITALIAN EXPERIENCE OF THE HOLY ROMAN EMPEROR CHARLES IV: MUSICAL AND LITERARY ASPECTS
Authors: Abramov-van Rijk Elena
Published: October 2018

The Italians had conflicting sentiments regarding the visit of the Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV in Italy in 1355: from the enthusiastic expectations of the impact the Emperor would have on the local political life to contemptuous scepticism and even to overt disdain. Two Italian Trecento madrigals have traditionally been considered to refer to this visit: (1) the three-voice polytextual madrigal Aquil altera/Creatura gentil/Uccel di Dio by Jacopo da Bologna, seen as related to Charles’s coronation with the Iron Crown of Lombardy in Milan; and (2) the two-voice madrigal Sovran uccello by Donato da Firenze, considered a celebratory piece for Charles’s coronation as well. This essay explores the relevant historical contexts, Milanese for Jacopo’s madrigal and Florentine for Donato’s, with a view to placing both pieces.
SINGING THE KING’S MUSIC: ATTAINGNANT’S MOTET SERIES, ROYAL HEGEMONY AND THE FUNCTION OF THE MOTET IN SIXTEENTH-CENTURY FRANCE
Authors: Bazinet Geneviève
Published: October 2018

This article examines Pierre Attaingnant’s motet series (1535–9), with special attention to the rubrics assigned to the titles of books and to individual motets. The role of the rubric as an organisational tool and its relation to contemporary liturgical and devotional practices is explored, revealing a strikingly cohesive series and connections to liturgical books and books of hours. A consideration of the use of the motet texts in other types of books and the uses suggested by Attaingnant’s rubrics reveals that the printer was promoting the use of Paris in his series. This study also revisits the issue of the function of the motet in sixteenth-century France. Finally, in the light of several connections between this series and the French royal court, the role of motets in the devotional life of Francis I and the possibility that this series served as an extension of the king’s political influence are examined.
Repeated Chlamydia trachomatis infections are associated with lower bacterial loads
Authors: Gupta K. , Bakshi R. K. , Van Der Pol B. , Daniel G. , Brown L. , Press C. G. , Gorwitz R. , Papp J. , Lee J. Y. , Geisler W. M.
Published: October 2018

Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) infections remain highly prevalent. CT reinfection occurs frequently within months after treatment, likely contributing to sustaining the high CT infection prevalence. Sparse studies have suggested CT reinfection is associated with a lower organism load, but it is unclear whether CT load at the time of treatment influences CT reinfection risk. In this study, women presenting for treatment of a positive CT screening test were enrolled, treated and returned for 3- and 6-month follow-up visits. CT organism loads were quantified at each visit. We evaluated for an association of CT bacterial load at initial infection with reinfection risk and investigated factors influencing the CT load at baseline and follow-up in those with CT reinfection. We found no association of initial CT load with reinfection risk. We found a significant decrease in the median log10 CT load from baseline to follow-up in those with reinfection (5.6 CT/ml vs. 4.5 CT/ml; P = 0.015). Upon stratification of reinfected subjects based upon presence or absence of a history of CT infections prior to their infection at the baseline visit, we found a significant decline in the CT load from baseline to follow-up (5.7 CT/ml vs. 4.3 CT/ml; P = 0.021) exclusively in patients with a history of CT infections prior to our study. Our findings suggest repeated CT infections may lead to possible development of partial immunity against CT.
Advancing the assessment of cultural orientation: A developmental and contextual framework of multiple psychological dimensions and social identities
Authors: Knight George P. , Safa M. Dalal , White Rebecca M. B.
Published: October 2018

This paper aims to advance the scientific understanding of the role of culture, particularly cultural orientation, in development and psychopathology. We advance a theoretical framework that conceptualizes cultural orientation as a developmental construct represented by multiple psychological dimensions and social identities, and influenced by the contexts in which individuals are embedded. This perspective suggests that cultural orientation changes within individuals over time as a function of their experiences with and memberships in multiple groups, including the mainstream and ethnic culture groups, as well as a function of their normative developmental changes (i.e., the development of cognitive, social, and emotional capabilities). In addition, this framework places the development of an ethnic culture social identity (e.g., an ethnic identity) and a mainstream culture social identity in broader developmental perspectives that recognize these as two of the many social identities that are simultaneously embedded within the individual's self-concept and that simultaneously influence one's cultural orientation. To support the successful integration of culture into the study of development and psychopathology, we describe how highly reliable and valid measures of cultural orientation, indexed by individuals’ social identities, are essential for generating a scientifically credible understanding of the role of cultural orientation in development and psychopathology. Further, we detail some best research practices associated with our developmental and contextual framework, and note some important considerations for researchers interested in studying cultural orientation, development, and psychopathology.
Podcast-based pronunciation training: Enhancing FL learners’ perception and production of fossilised segmental features
Authors: Fouz-González Jonás
Published: October 2018

This study investigates the potential of a podcast-based approach aimed at helping foreign language learners improve their pronunciation of features that tend to be fossilised in their interlanguage. Training took place over a period of three weeks in which podcasts were used for perceptual and productive practice as well as for peer evaluation. Participants in this study (N=47) were randomly assigned to two groups that acted as control and experimental at the same time. One group received training on the English /s – z/ contrast and the other one was trained on the pronunciation of English /b d g/ as stops in intervocalic position. Pre- and post-tests were used to measure the participants’ perception and production of the target features. The results show that training had a positive impact on the participants’ perception and production of the target sounds. Even though the differences between groups did not reach statistical significance for every sound in every task, the data reveal that the approach adopted could foster substantial improvements in the participants’ pronunciation of features that tend to be fossilised, even after short periods of training.
Additive negative effects of Philornis nest parasitism on small and declining Neotropical bird populations
Authors: BULGARELLA MARIANA , QUIROGA MARTÍN A. , HEIMPEL GEORGE E.
Published: October 2018

The declining-population paradigm holds that small populations are particularly vulnerable to anthropogenic influences such as habitat destruction, pollution and species introductions. While the effects of particular stressors, such as parasitism, may be unimportant in a large, healthy population, they can be serious and even devastating in situations characterised by a restricted geographic range, or by fragmented or reduced population sizes. We apply this idea to nest parasitism of threatened Neotropical bird species that exist in small populations, focusing on dipteran nest parasites in the genusPhilornis. We review the literature onPhilornisparasitism exerting negative pressure on bird populations that have become small and isolated due to human actions and present a new case ofPhilornisparasitism of a threatened hummingbird species. Our aim is to raise awareness about the exacerbating effect that nest parasites can have on small and declining bird populations; especially when biological information is scarce. The five reviewed cases involve two species of Darwin’s Finches in the Galápagos Islands attacked by the invasiveP. downsi, two species of hawks on islands in the Caribbean attacked by the nativeP. piciandP. obscura, and the Yellow CardinalGubernatrix cristatain southern South America attacked by an unknownPhilornisspecies. We also present new documentation of parasitism of a threatened hummingbird species in mainland Ecuador by an unidentifiedPhilornisspecies. We recommend more field studies to determine the presence of nest parasites in bird populations worldwide to improve understanding how nest parasites affect bird fitness and population viability and to allow time to act in advance if needed. Parasitism byPhilornismay represent a severe mortality factor in most already threatened bird species, putting them at greater risk of extinction. Therefore, parasitism management should be included in all threatened species recovery plans.
Identifying the Underlying Mechanisms of Change During Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): A Systematic Review of Contemporary Mediation Studies
Authors: Stockton Daniel , Kellett Stephen , Berrios Raul , Sirois Fuschia , Wilkinson Nicolas , Miles Georgina
Published: October 2018

Background: Mediation studies test the mechanisms by which interventions produce clinical outcomes. Consistent positive mediation results have previously been evidenced (Hayeset al., 2006) for the putative processes that compromise the psychological flexibility model of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT).Aims: The present review aimed to update and extend the ACT mediation evidence base by reviewing mediation studies published since the review of Hayeset al.(2006).Method: ACT mediation studies published between 2006 and 2015 were systematically collated, synthesized and quality assessed.Results: Twelve studies met inclusion criteria and findings were synthesized by (a) the putative processes under investigation, and (b) the outcomes on which processes were tested for mediation. Mediation results were found to be generally consistent with the psychological flexibility model of ACT. However, studies were limited in methodological quality and were overly focused on a small number of putative processes.Conclusions: Further research is required that addresses the identified methodological limitations and also examines currently under-researched putative processes.