bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dexmedetomidine alleviates lipopolysaccharide‐induced acute kidney injury by inhibiting the NLRP3 inflammasome activation via regulating the TLR4/NOX4/NF‐κB pathway
Authors: Yao Yujie , Hu Xueyuan , Feng Xiujing , Zhao Yuan , Song Manyu , Wang Chaoran , Fan Honggang
Published: June 2019

Dexmedetomidine (DEX) prevents kidney damage caused by sepsis, but the mechanism of this effect remains unclear. In this study, the protective molecular mechanism of DEX in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced acute kidney injury was investigated and its potential pharmacological targets from the perspective of inhibiting oxidative stress damage and the nucleotide‐binding domain‐like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome activation. Intraperitoneal injection of DEX (30 μg/kg) significantly improved LPS (10 mg/kg) induced renal pathological damage and renal dysfunction. DEX also ameliorated oxidative stress damage by reducing the contents of reactive oxygen species, malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide, and increasing the level of glutathione, as well as the activity of superoxide dismutase and catalase. In addition, DEX prevented nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐κB) activation and I‐kappa B (IκB) phosphorylation, as well as the expressions of NLRP3 inflammasome‐associated protein and downstream IL‐18 and IL‐1β. The messengerRNA (mRNA) and protein expressions of toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4), NADPH oxidase‐4 (NOX4), NF‐κB, and NLRP3 were also significantly reduced by DEX. Their expressions were further evaluated by immunohistochemistry, yielding results were consistent with the results of mRNA and protein detection. Interestingly, the protective effects of DEX were reversed by atipamezole‐an alpha 2 adrenal receptor (α2AR) inhibitor, whereas idazoxan‐an imidazoline receptor (IR) inhibitor failed to reverse this change. In conclusion, DEX attenuated LPS‐induced AKI by inhibiting oxidative stress damage and NLRP3 inflammasome activation via regulating the TLR4/NOX4/NF‐κB pathway, mainly acting on the α2AR rather than IR.
MicroRNA‐488‐3p inhibits proliferation and induces apoptosis by targeting ZBTB2 in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Yang Yi , Li He , He Zhifeng , Xie Deyao , Ni Jiangwei , Lin Xiaoming
Published: June 2019

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is the eighth most prevalent cancer and the sixth leading cause for cancer‐associated mortality. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are increasingly reported to exert important regulatory functions in human cancers by regulating certain gene expression. miR‐488‐3p has been identified to be a tumor suppressor in multiple cancers, but its role in ESCC is yet to be investigated. The present study aimed to uncover the biological role and modulatory mechanism of miR‐488‐3p in ESCC. We first revealed the downregulation of miR‐488‐3p in ESCC tissues and cell lines. Gain‐of‐function assays confirmed that miR‐488‐3p overexpression abrogated proliferation and accelerated apoptosis. Mechanistically, we identified via bioinformatics tool and confirmed that zinc finger and BTB domain containing 2 (ZBTB2) was a target for miR‐488‐3p. Moreover, miR‐488‐3p activated the p53 pathway through suppressing ZBTB2. Finally, rescue assays proved that ZBTB2 was involved in the regulation of miR‐488‐3p on proliferation and apoptosis in ESCC. Additionally, we verified that miR‐488‐3p had alternate targets in ESCC by confirming the involvement of protein kinase, DNA‐activated, catalytic subunit (PRKDC), a known target for miR‐488‐3p, in miR‐488‐3p‐mediated regulation on ESCC. In sum, this study revealed that miR‐488‐3p inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis by targeting ZBTB2 and activating p53 pathway in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, providing a novel biological target for ESCC.
miR‐206 inhibits thyroid cancer proliferation and invasion by targeting RAP1B
Authors: Wang Peng , Gu Jialei , Wang Kejing , Shang Jinbiao , Wang Wendong
Published: June 2019

Thyroid cancer (TC) is one of the primary tumors arisen from endocrine system. The purpose of this study was to investigate the underlying mechanism by which RAP1B (Ras‐related protein Rap‐1b) modulates microRNA (miR)‐206 related effects on TC cells. Expression of miR‐206 and RAP1B was analyzed in cells and tissues. miR‐206 mimics or inhibitors and RAP1B vector were used in functional experiments to investigate the effects of miR‐206 and RAP1B on cell activities including proliferation, migration, and invasion. Luciferase assay was performed to explore the association between miR‐206 and RAP1B. The influence of miR‐206 on tumorigenesis of TC cells was investigated using an ex vivo model. Our results demonstrated the reduce of miR‐206 in TC tissues and cell lines in which RAP1B was increased. Overexpression of miR‐206 significantly inhibited the functional capacities of TPC‐1 cells including proliferation, invasion, and migration, most likely, through reducing the expression of RAP1B. Xenograft experiment showed that increased miR‐206 could effectively inhibit the tumorigenesis of TC cells. Our study showed that miR‐206 negatively regulated cell activities of proliferation, invasion, and migration in TC via suppressing RAP1B expression, suggesting that miR‐206 exerts a vital role in TC.
Transperineal versus transvaginal sonographic measurements of cervical length in pregnant women between 16 and 24 weeks of gestation
Authors: Songserm Vilasinee , Komwilaisak Ratana , Saksiriwuttho Piyamas , Kongwattanakul Kiattisak
Published: June 2019

Purpose

To investigate the correlation between cervical length measurements using transvaginal and transperineal approaches at 16‐24 weeks of gestation.

Methods

The prospective study recruited 110 singleton pregnant women. All the measurements were performed by one operator who was blinded to the results of both approaches. Cervical length was first measured by transvaginal sonography (TVUS) then transperineal sonography (TPUS). The transvaginal approach was used as the reference measurement. Patient preference regarding the sonographic approaches was evaluated using questionnaire.

Results

Cervical length was successfully measured by TVUS in all cases. TPUS was successful in 108/110 participants. There was high correlation between the results of TVUS and TPUS (Pearson's correlation coefficient was .94; 95% CI .9 to .95. Lin's concordance correlation coefficient was .94; 95% CI .92‐.96). The estimated difference in cervical length measured using TVUS and TPUS was .2 mm. The 95% tolerance interval for paired observation was −1.8 to 2.3 mm. The interobserver coefficient of TPUS measurement was .98 (95% CI .92‐.99). TPUS was rated as resulting in mild or no discomfort and was preferred by most women.

Conclusion

TVUS and TPUS techniques showed high correlation in cervical length measurement with high interobserver reliability. More patients preferred TPUS. TPUS should be considered as an alternative method of cervical length measurement.
Alpha‐keratin and corneous beta protein in the parakeratinized epithelium of the tongue in the domestic goose (Anser anser f. domestica)
Authors: Skieresz‐Szewczyk Kinga , Buchwald Tomasz , Szybowicz Mirosław , Jackowiak Hanna
Published: June 2019

The parakeratinized epithelium is a common epithelium in the oral cavity in birds and is characterized by the presence of cell nuclei in the cells of the cornified layer. This epithelium covers almost the entire dorsal surface of the tongue in the domestic goose apart of the lingual nail and conical papillae. So far no study has identified the molecular proteins alpha‐keratin (IF‐keratin) and/or corneous beta protein (CBP), which are responsible for keratinization or cornification processes in the parakeratinized epithelium of domestic geese. The study was performed using immunohistochemical (IHC) methods to identify alpha‐keratin. The innovative method of Raman microspectroscopy was used to determine the presence of CBP and specify their percentage in epithelial layers of the parakeratinized epithelium. The results revealed that alpha‐keratin is present in the whole parakeratinized epithelium. A strong staining reaction was detected in the basal and intermediate layers and a less strong staining reaction in the cornified layer. Raman microspectroscopy analysis confirmed the presence of alpha‐keratin and demonstrated that its percentage decreases from the basal layer to the cornified layer. The Raman microspectroscopy technique revealed the occurrence of CBP in the parakeratinized epithelium and demonstrated that the percentage of this protein increases from the basal layer to the cornified layer. Performed analysis determines that parakeratinized epithelium undergoes cornification. However, the lower percentage of CBP in the cornified layer of parakeratinized epithelium than in orthokeratinized epithelium points to the fact that parakeratinized epithelium has a weaker protective function.
Recurrence patterns after resection of retroperitoneal sarcomas: An eight‐institution study from the US Sarcoma Collaborative
Authors: Chouliaras Konstantinos , Senehi Rebecca , Ethun Cecilia G. , Poultsides George , Tran Thuy , Grignol Valerie , Gamblin Thomas Clark , Roggin Kevin K. , Tseng Jennifer , Fields Ryan C. , Weber Sharon M. , Russell Gregory B. , Levine Edward A. , Cardona Kenneth , Votanopoulos Konstantinos
Published: June 2019

Background and Objectives

Resection of primary retroperitoneal sarcomas (RPS) has a high incidence of recurrence. This study aims to identify patterns of recurrence and its impact on overall survival.

Methods

Adult patients with primary retroperitoneal soft tissue sarcomas who underwent resection in 2000‐2016 at eight institutions of the US Sarcoma Collaborative were evaluated.

Results

Four hundred and ninety‐eight patients were analyzed, with 56.2% (280 of 498) having recurrences. There were 433 recurrences (1‐8) in 280 patients with 126 (25.3%) being locoregional, 82 (16.5%) distant, and 72 (14.5%) both locoregional and distant. Multivariate analyses revealed the following: Patient age P = .0002), tumor grade (P = .02), local recurrence (P = .0003) and distant recurrence (P < .0001) were predictors of disease‐specific survival. The 1‐, 3‐, and 5‐year survival rate for patients who recurred vs not was 89.6% (standard error [SE] 1.9) vs 93.5% (1.8), 66.0% (3.2) vs 88.4% (2.6), and 51.8% (3.6) vs 83.9% (3.3), respectively, P < .0001. Median survival was 5.3 years for the recurrence vs 11.3+ years for the no recurrence group (P < .0001). Median survival from the time of recurrence was 2.5 years.

Conclusions

Recurrence after resection of RPS occurs in more than half of patients independently of resection status or perioperative chemotherapy and is equally distributed between locoregional and distant sites. Recurrence is primarily related to tumor biology and is associated with a significant decrease in overall survival.
Identification of 99% of CFTR gene mutations in Bulgarian‐, Bulgarian Turk‐, and Roma cystic fibrosis patients
Authors: Petrova Guergana , Yaneva Nadezhda , Hrbková Jana , Libik Malgorzata , Savov Alexey , Macek Milan
Published: June 2019

Background

The spectrum and frequencies of CFTR mutations causing Cystic fibrosis (CF) varies among different populations in Europe, and beyond.

Methods

We identified 98.9% of all CFTR mutations in a representative cohort of 140 CF patients comprising 107 Bulgarian‐ (BG), 17 BG Turk‐, and 16 BG Roma cases. The compiled clinical and genotype dataset includes 110 previously analyzed patients with 30 cases currently analyzed for rare CFTR variants by massively parallel sequencing of the entire CFTR coding region and adjacent introns combined with the analysis of intra‐CFTR rearrangements.

Results

Altogether 53 different mutations, of which 15 newly identified in the BG CF population, were observed. Comparison of clinical and laboratory data between individual BG ethnic groups proved that BG Roma have a more severe nutritional status and are younger than other CF patients, as well as that the spectrum mutations differs between them.

Conclusion

This collaborative study improves genetic counselling in BG, facilitates introduction of multitier CF neonatal screening and fosters public health measures for improvement of care in the Roma CF population.
Maximum error estimates for a compact difference scheme of the coupled nonlinear Schrödinger–Boussinesq equations
Authors: Hu Xiuling , Wang Shanshan , Zhang Luming
Published: June 2019

The coupled nonlinear Schrödinger–Boussinesq (SBq) equations describe the nonlinear development of modulational instabilities associated with Langmuir field amplitude coupled to intense electromagnetic wave in dispersive media such as plasmas. In this paper, we present a conservative compact difference scheme for the coupled SBq equations and analyze the conservative property and the existence of the scheme. Then we prove that the scheme is convergent with convergence order O(τ2 + h4) in L∞‐norm and is stable in L∞‐norm. Numerical results verify the theoretical analysis.
A 1H‐NMR spectroscopic method for the analysis of thermolabile chemical markers from the essential oil of black turmeric (Curcuma caesia) rhizome: application in post‐harvest analysis
Authors: Mahanta Bhaskar Protim , Sut Dristi , Kemprai Phirose , Paw Manabi , Lal Mohan , Haldar Saikat
Published: June 2019

Introduction

Curcuma caesia (black turmeric), an essential oil‐bearing rhizomatous herb has been a part of ethnomedicinal practices in India and southeast Asian countries since ancient time. Oleochemical profile of black turmeric has been investigated previously by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC–MS) technique from different geographical regions showing a large variation in the identity as well as abundance of the constituents.

Objectives

To develop an analytical method for the reliable analysis of essential oil from black turmeric rhizome through identified chemical markers and to show the credibility of the developed method on real samples.

Methods

The essential oil of black turmeric was analysed through proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H‐NMR) based method using an internal standard.

Results

Four thermolabile sesquiterpene markers were unambiguously identified from the essential oil of black turmeric rhizome. GC–MS based analysis produced an erroneous identification of the constituents. A standardised 1H‐NMR spectroscopy based method was developed for the qualitative and quantitative analysis of the identified chemical markers. The developed method was further utilised for analysing the variation in oleochemical profile across multiple batches of harvest and the rhizomes subjected to different post‐harvest storage or drying conditions.

Conclusion

The identified marker molecules and developed 1H ‐NMR spectroscopic method might prove to be a useful tool for the analysis of essential oil and quality control of this endangered crop material. Also, the present study provided information on the preferred drying and storage condition of black turmeric rhizome prior to the extraction of essential oil.
Correlation of displacement of mediastinal metastatic lymph nodes with adjacent organs in non‐small cell lung cancer on four‐dimensional computed tomography
Authors: Wang Suzhen , Xing Huai‐Xin , Li Jianbin , Zhang Ying‐Jie , Fan Ting‐Yong , Yuan Shuang‐Hu , Hu Xu‐Dong , Xu Min
Published: June 2019

Objective

To determine the correlation of displacement of the mediastinal metastatic lymph nodes with adjacent organs in non‐small cell lung cancer using four‐dimensional computed tomography.

Methods

The displacements of 51 mediastinal metastatic lymph nodes located in the left–right, anterior–posterior, and superior–inferior directions were measured using four‐dimensional computed tomography. Correlation analyses were carried out to determine the association between the displacement of lymph nodes and volumetric change of the lungs and heart.

Results

A significant correlation of displacement of the left group lymph nodes in left–right and the right group in anterior–posterior directions with volumetric change of the ipsilateral lung was observed. There were significant correlations between displacement of the left group lymph nodes and volumetric change of the heart.

Conclusion

Displacement of the mediastinal metastatic lymph nodes was relevant to the adjacent organs.
In vitro evaluation of an intravenous microdialysis catheter for therapeutic drug monitoring of gentamicin and vancomycin
Authors: van der Mast Jackelien E. , Nijsten Maarten W. , Alffenaar Jan‐Willem C. , Touw Daan J. , Bult Wouter
Published: June 2019

A central venous catheter with a built‐in microdialysis membrane is available for continuous lactate and glucose monitoring in the intensive care unit (ICU). As this catheter might also be suitable for repeated measurements of unbound drug levels, we studied in vitro the feasibility of monitoring unbound antibiotic concentrations. The catheter was placed in various media at 37°C spiked with gentamicin or vancomycin. Dialysate fractions were repeatedly collected over 3 hours with a NaCl 0.9% perfusate flow of 5 μL/min. Total and unbound drug concentrations in medium and perfusate were measured by immunoassay. After 60 minutes stable recovery for both drugs was observed, with mean ±SD relative recoveries of vancomycin and gentamicin in human serum of 64% ±0.4% and 73% ±3%. The recoveries of the unbound concentrations were 91% ±3% and 91% ±4%. This intravenous microdialysis system may be a very useful platform for therapeutic drug monitoring in the ICU.
Molecular characterization of nonionic surfactant components of the Corexit® 9500 oil spill dispersant by high‐resolution mass spectrometry
Authors: Choyke Sarah , Ferguson P. Lee
Published: June 2019

Rationale

Approximately 7 million liters of Corexit® dispersants were applied during the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill to facilitate the dispersion of crude oil. At the time of application, the exact chemical composition of Corexit® was relatively unknown. Characterization of Corexit® 9500 was performed using high‐resolution mass spectrometry to further understand the complexity of the nonionic surfactant components of this mixture.

Methods

Corexit®9500 was analyzed by ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) coupled to a high resolution Orbitrap Fusion Lumos mass spectrometer operated in positive electrospray ionization mode and a charged aerosol detector. Chromatographic conditions were optimized to efficiently separate isobaric and isomeric compounds. Polyethoxylated nonionic surfactants in Corexit® 9500 were identified using the following criteria: accurate mass (<3 ppm), retention time, and homologue series; in addition, interpretation of high‐resolution tandem mass spectra was used to annotate tentative component structures.

Results

More than 2000 polysorbate nonionic surfactants in 87 homologue series were detected. Polysorbate surfactants were characterized by the type of molecular basis group (sorbitan, isosorbide, or fatty acid), degree of esterification (n = 0–4), ester chain length (C6–C24), and ester saturation, in addition to polydispersion by ethoxylation. Isomeric compounds were differentiated by LC/HRMS/MS analysis with product ion assignment. Results from the charged aerosol detector showed that the diesters (23.9 ± 0.78%) were the most abundant component in Corexit® 9500 followed by dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate (DOSS) (19.2 ± 1.5%), triesters (17.3 ± 1.5%), and monoesters (15.7 ± 2.3%).

Conclusions

Our analytical approach facilitated the characterization of polysorbate surfactants within Corexit® 9500 and allowed a systematic study to differentiate isomeric and isobaric compounds, when standards were not available. The characterized composition of Corexit® 9500 will facilitate future studies to determine the chemical and biological transformation kinetics and byproducts of Corexit® 9500 under environmental conditions.
Within the asylum‐advocacy nexus: An analysis of Mexican transgender asylum seekers in the United States
Authors: Barnes Nielan
Published: June 2019

Despite that Mexico has experienced significant legislative gains for LGBT rights, why is transphobic violence on the rise, driving increasing numbers to immigrate to the United States, even though the United States also experiences high levels of transphobic violence? This paper uses action‐based research from within the “asylum‐advocacy nexus” to analyze the experiences of Mexican transgender and gender non‐conforming persons within both the Mexican society and the US society and asylum process. Data show early childhood socialization is deeply informed by conservative religious (trans‐ and homophobic) ideas and practices that extend from the family and church into each sector of society—educational, employment, health care, public security, popular culture, sports, etc. Despite some legislative advances and possibilities for empowerment, there remains a programmatic need to address a culture of violence against sexual minorities within family, educational, legal, and public security sectors in both countries.
Discovering common bug‐fix patterns: A large‐scale observational study
Authors: Campos Eduardo C. , Maia Marcelo de A.
Published: June 2019

Background: Automatic program repair aims to reduce costs associated with defect repair. The detection and characterization of common bug‐fix patterns in software repositories play an important role in advancing this field. Aim: In this paper, we characterize the occurrence of known bug‐fix patterns in Java repositories at an unprecedented large scale. Furthermore, we propose a novel automatic technique for unveiling frequent and isolated repair actions corresponding to realistic bug fixes in Java. Method: The study was conducted for Java GitHub projects organized in two distinct data sets. The first data set (Boa) contains more than 4 million bug‐fix commits from 101 471 projects. The second data set (Defects4J) contains 369 real bug fixes from five open‐source projects. Results: We characterized the prevalence of the five most common bug‐fix patterns (identified in the work of Pan et al) in those bug fixes. The combined results showed direct evidence that developers often forget to add IF preconditions in the code.Conclusion: We discover a total of 155 repair actions from Defects4J patches and discuss 10 pervasive repair actions that occur across all analyzed Java projects. Moreover, the overall Precision and Recall values for the clustering approach were 0.62 and 0.64, respectively.
Investigation of the intershell higher order resonant recombination and polarization of X‐ray emission of B‐like silicon ions
Authors: Xie Luyou , Lu Simei , Cheng Xiaoshu , Zhang Denghong , Jiang Jun , Dong Chenzhong
Published: June 2019

K‐shell dielectronic, trielectronic, and quadruelectronic recombination and polarization of X‐ray emission have been studied for the highly charged Si9+ ions in the initial ground state 2P1/2 and the metastable state 2P3/2 using the Flexible Atomic Code. It is found that the resonant recombination cross section from the long‐lived metastable state is comparable in magnitude with that of the ground state, so it is important for plasma diagnostics. For Si9+(2P1/2), trielectronic recombination contributions of nearly 25% to the total resonant recombination strength are predicted, which is less than previous calculations. We compare the degree of linear polarization for the eleven dominant resonant recombination satellite lines from the initial parent Si9+(2P1/2) and Si9+(2P3/2) ions. For the same X‐ray lines, large variations of polarization are found between 2P1/2 and 2P3/2, which can be employed to diagnose formation mechanisms of intermediate resonance states and corresponding X‐ray lines.
Fatigue in primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS) is associated with lower levels of proinflammatory cytokines: a validation study
Authors:   UK Primary Sjögren’s Syndrome Registry, Davies Kristen , Mirza Kamran , Tarn Jessica , Howard-Tripp Nadia , Bowman Simon J. , Lendrem Dennis , Ng Wan-Fai
Published: June 2019

Primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS) is a chronic autoimmune rheumatic disease with symptoms including dryness, fatigue, and pain. The previous work by our group has suggested that certain proinflammatory cytokines are inversely related to patient-reported levels of fatigue. To date, these findings have not been validated. This study aims to validate this observation. Blood levels of seven cytokines were measured in 120 patients with pSS from the United Kingdom Primary Sjögren’s Syndrome Registry and 30 age-matched healthy non-fatigued controls. Patient-reported scores for fatigue were classified according to severity and compared to cytokine levels using analysis of variance. The differences between cytokines in cases and controls were evaluated using Wilcoxon test. A logistic regression model was used to determine the most important identifiers of fatigue. Five cytokines, interferon-γ-induced protein-10 (IP-10), tumour necrosis factor-α (TNFα), interferon-α (IFNα), interferon-γ (IFN-γ), and lymphotoxin-α (LT-α) were significantly higher in patients with pSS (n = 120) compared to non-fatigued controls (n = 30). Levels of two proinflammatory cytokines, TNF-α (p = 0.021) and LT-α (p = 0.043), were inversely related to patient-reported levels of fatigue. Cytokine levels, disease-specific and clinical parameters as well as pain, anxiety, and depression were used as predictors in our validation model. The model correctly identifies fatigue levels with 85% accuracy. Consistent with the original study, pain, depression, and proinflammatory cytokines appear to be the most powerful predictors of fatigue in pSS. TNF-α and LT-α have an inverse relationship with fatigue severity in pSS challenging the notion that proinflammatory cytokines directly mediate fatigue in chronic immunological conditions.
Inattention and task switching performance: the role of predictability, working memory load and goal neglect
Authors: Arabacı Gizem , Parris Benjamin A.
Published: June 2019

Inattention is a symptom of many clinical disorders including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and is thought to be primarily related to limitations in working memory. In two studies, we investigated the implications of inattention for task switching performance. In study one, we measured task switching performance using predictable and unpredictable conditions in adults who self-rated inattention and other ADHD-related tendencies. Tasks required proactive control and reactive control, respectively, under both high and low working memory loads. Results revealed that inattentive, but not hyperactive/impulsive traits, predicted switch costs when switching was predictable and working memory load was high. None of the ADHD traits were related to unpredictable switch costs. Study two was designed to: (1) de-confound the role of proactive control and the need to keep track of task order in the predictable task switching paradigm; (2) investigate whether goal neglect, an impairment related to working memory, could explain the relationship between inattention and predictable task switching. Results revealed that neither predictability nor the need to keep track of the task order led to the association between switch costs and inattention, but instead it was the tendency for those high in inattention to neglect preparatory proactive control, especially when reactive control options were available.
The influence of soil compaction in explaining spatial heterogeneity of different larch forest types: a preliminary study
Authors: Tian Yuan , Zhang Qiuliang , Liu Xuan
Published: June 2019

Compacted soil has an adverse effect on plant roots and affects water and nutrient availability. However, different degrees of soil compaction may be suitable for growth and development of different understory species. This study determined whether soil compaction could explain characteristics of 10 different Dahurian larch (Larix gmelinii Rupr.) forest types in the Daxing’anling area. The relationship of soil compaction to soil depth was also studied. Forty-five tests were conducted on soil compaction of the 10 forest types with multiple comparisons, of which five showed no significant differences. At different soil depths, there were significant differences in soil compaction among forest types. The correlation between the degree of soil compaction and depth was positive and significant. The Larix gmelinii—shrub forest type, L. gmelinii—herb forest type, and L. gmelinii—swamp forest type were significantly different in soil compaction according to soil depth. This research indicates that, as a physical property, soil compaction may be used to explain forest distribution spatial variabilities.
Early life stress and the propensity to develop addictive behaviors
Authors: Walters Hailey , Kosten Therese A.
Published: June 2019

There is a vast literature on effects of early life manipulations in rodents much of which is aimed at investigating the long‐term consequences related to emotion and cognition in adulthood. Less is known about how these manipulations affect responses reflective of alcohol (AUD) and substance (SUD) use disorders. The purpose of this paper is to review the literature of studies that employed early life manipulations and assessed behavioral responses to psychoactive substances, specifically alcohol, opiates, and stimulants, in rodents. While the findings with alcohol are more limited and mixed, studies with opiates and stimulants show strong support for the ability of these manipulations to enhance behavioral responsivity to these substances in line with epidemiological data. Some outcomes show sex differences. The mechanisms that influence these enduring changes may reflect epigenetic alterations. Several studies support a role for altered DNA methylation (and other epigenetic mechanisms) as biological responses to early environmental insults. The chemical changes induced by DNA methylation affect transcriptional activity of DNA and thus can have a long‐term impact on the individual's phenotype. Such effects are particularly robust when they occur during sensitive periods of brain development (e.g., first postnatal weeks in rodents). We review this emerging literature as it relates to the known neurobiology of AUDs and SUDs and suggest new avenues of research. Such findings will have implications for the treatment and prevention of AUDs and SUDs and could provide insight into factors that support resiliency.
Elizabeth Hamilton's Scottish Associationism: Early Nineteenth-Century Philosophy of Mind
Authors: GOKCEKUS SAMIN
Published: June 2019

This article compares early nineteenth-century English and Scottish theories of the mind and the way that it develops to findings in today's developmental psychology and neuroscience through a close observation of the work of Elizabeth Hamilton (1756–1816). Hamilton was a Scottish writer and philosopher who produced three pedagogical works in her lifetime, consisting of her carefully formulated philosophy of mind and practical suggestions to caretakers and educators. Although Hamilton has received relatively little attention in modern philosophical literature, her understanding of the mind and the way it develops—based on her nuanced understanding of associationism and Scottish faculty psychology—is overwhelmingly supported by empirical findings today. In addition to utilizing Hamilton's work for the sake of understanding early nineteenth-century philosophy of mind, I argue that a large portion of Hamilton's work should be used to inform future research programs, early caregiving guides, and educational methods.
A Bayesian Approach to Andean Faunal Assemblages
Authors: Osborn Jo
Published: June 2019

Faunal assemblages offer rich data for exploring domestication, subsistence, ritual practice, and political economy. Issues of equifinality, however, frequently complicate interpretations because different agents and processes may create similar archaeological signatures. Analysts are often forced to make interpretations based on qualitative observations, which can be difficult to justify or replicate. I present an alternative method for classifying Andean assemblages by using ethnographic, ethnohistoric, and archaeological data to construct a Bayesian network model. The model is assessed using specifically constructed test datasets and archaeological case studies. Bayesian models can lead to explicit and quantifiable probabilistic interpretations of faunal assemblages.
Strata sequence and paleochannel response to tectonic, sea-level, and Asian monsoon variability since the late Pleistocene in the South Yellow Sea
Authors: Wang Liyan , Li Guangxue , Xu Jishang , Liu Yong , Qiao Lulu , Ding Dong , Yang Jichao , Dada Olusegun A. , Li Qian
Published: June 2019

The continental shelf strata provide information regarding sea-level fluctuation and climate changes in the Quaternary period. A 5831.47-km-long high-resolution seismic profile and borehole core (YS01) were acquired to reconstruct the evolutionary history of the strata in South Yellow Sea (SYS) during the late Pleistocene. The strata recorded three transgression events (HI, HII, and HIII) and three stages of paleochannel development (LI, LII, and LIII). Based on the distribution, thickness, and volume of the strata formed in the three transgressions, we concluded that the scale of the three transgressions during the late Pleistocene was HIII, HI, and HII, in descending order. In addition, our data show that the Yellow River extended to the Yellow Sea Trough during the last glacial maximum. The influence of the tectonic framework on sedimentation in the SYS was completely concealed by sea-level changes and sediment supply in the late Pleistocene (~Marine Isotope Stage 5). Since then, the accommodation space, a crucial prerequisite for sedimentation, has been controlled solely by sea-level changes in the SYS. Furthermore, two “source to sink” models of the neritic shelf in the marine and terrestrial environments were established, including high sea-level and shelf-exposure models.
Towards a Multilingual Literary History: Lessons from a conflict environment
Authors: DE SILVA ANNEMARI
Published: June 2019

This article presents methodologies towards a multilingual literary history of Sri Lanka in the twentieth century by examining multilingual encounters or cultures through places, people, and institutions. Massey's concept of plural space underpins the study and gives rise to various strategies to build a multilingual literary history. The guiding research questions are: How do we construct multilingual literary histories in the context of language-based conflict? What can conflict environments teach us about approaches to multilingual literary histories and spheres? In addition to discovering future directions for intra-national comparative literary studies and documenting multilingual cultures and sites, I also focus on the changing geography of multilingualism in the twentieth century. As ideological separation of language spheres turned to real-world segregation through a series of policy shifts and institutional changes, we see that the pursuit of multilingual research takes us from organic, or naturally occurring, sites of multilingualism to orchestrated, or purposefully created, sites. Orchestrated sites work to counterbalance the decreasing opportunity for organic multilingual encounters in the context of ethnolinguistic conflict.
Neural Network Design for Manipulator Collision Detection Based Only on the Joint Position Sensors
Authors: Sharkawy Abdel-Nasser , Koustoumpardis Panagiotis N. , Aspragathos Nikos
Published: June 2019

In this paper, a multilayer feedforward neural network (NN) is designed and trained, for human–robot collisions detection, using only the intrinsic joint position sensors of a manipulator. The topology of one NN is designed considering the coupled dynamics of the robot and trained, with and without external contacts, by Levenberg–Marquardt algorithm to detect unwanted collisions of the human operator with the manipulator and the link that is collided. The proposed approach could be applied to any industrial robot, where only the joint position signals are available. The designed NN is compared quantitatively and qualitatively with an NN, where both the intrinsic joint position and the torque sensors of the manipulator are used. The proposed method is evaluated experimentally with the KUKA LWR manipulator, which is considered as an example of the collaborative robots, using two of its joints in a planar horizontal motion. The results illustrate that the developed system is efficient and fast to detect the collisions and identify the collided link.
Powder X-ray structural studies and reference diffraction patterns for three forms of porous aluminum terephthalate, MIL-53(A1)
Authors: Wong-Ng W. , Nguyen H. G. , Espinal L. , Siderius D. W. , Kaduk J. A.
Published: June 2019

Powder X-ray diffraction patterns for three forms of MIL-53(Al), a metal organic framework (MOF) compound with breathing characteristics, were investigated using the Rietveld refinement method. These three samples are referred to as the MIL-53(Al)as-syn (the as synthesized sample), orthorhombic, Pnma, a = 17.064(2) Å, b = 6.6069(9) Å, c = 12.1636(13) Å, V = 1371.3(2) Å3, Z = 4), MIL-53(Al)LT-H (low-temperature hydrated phase, monoclinic P21/c, a = 19.4993(8) Å, b = 15.2347(6) Å, c = 6.5687(3) Å, β = 104.219(4) °, V = 1891.55(10) Å3, Z = 8), and MIL-53(Al)HT-D (high-temperature dehydrated phase, Imma, a = 6.6324(5) Å, b = 16.736(2) Å, c = 12.840(2), V = 1425.2(2) Å3, Z = 4). The crystal structures of the “as-syn” sample and the HT-D sample are confirmed to be the commonly adopted ones. However, the structure of the MIL-53(Al)LT-H phase is confirmed to be monoclinic with a space group of P21/c instead of the commonly accepted space group Cc, resulting in a cell volume double in size. The structure has two slightly different types of channel. The pore volumes and pore surface area were estimated to be 0.11766 (8) cm3/g and 1461.3(10) m2/g for MIL-53(Al)HT-D (high-temperature dehydrated phase), and 0.08628 (5) cm3/g and 1401.6 (10) m2/g for MIL-53(Al)as-syn phases, respectively. The powder patterns for the MIL-53(Al)as-syn and MIL-53(Al)HT-D phases are reported in this paper.
The Carle-Illinois (Urbana, Illinois USA) Transport Protocol for LEK9s: Guidelines for Emergency Medical Service Providers
Authors: Weir William B. , Mitek Ashley E. , Smith Michael , Schneider Danielle , McMichael Maureen A.
Published: June 2019

Three states and one county now allow Emergency Medical Services (EMS) providers to transport injured law enforcement K9s (LEK9s) as long as no human needs the ambulance at the time. Several other states either have pending legislation or are in discussions about this topic. As additional states ponder these laws, it is likely that the EMS transport of LEK9s will become legal in many states. In the wake of this legislation, a significant void was created. Currently, there are no published protocols for the safe transport of LEK9s by EMS providers. Additionally, the transport destination for these LEK9s is unlikely to be programmed into vehicle Global Positioning Systems. The authors of this report convened a Joint Task Force on Working Dog Care, consisting of veterinarians, EMS directors, EMS physicians, and LEK9 handlers, who met to develop a protocol for LEK9s being transported to a veterinary facility. The protocol covers the logistics of getting the LEK9 into the ambulance (eg, when the handler is or is not available), appropriate restraint, and the importance of prior arrangements with a veterinary emergency facility. A LEK9 hand-off form and a Transport Policy Form are provided, downloadable, and customizable for each EMS provider. This protocol provides essential information on safety and transport logistics for injured LEK9s. The hope is that this protocol will assist EMS providers to streamline the transport of an injured LEK9 to an appropriate veterinary facility.
The post-fact world in a post-truth era: the productivity and emergent meanings of the prefixpost-in contemporary English
Authors: PRAŻMO EWELINA
Published: June 2019

This article proposes a cognitive linguistic analysis of the prefixpost-in contemporary English by looking into the possible motivations of the semantic changes which have led to the increasing applicability of the prefix. The prefix's productivity in combinations such aspost-truthandpost-factcalls for expanding its original definition. These recent combinations go beyond the main two established meanings of the prefix, namely the spatial and the temporal meaning. In order to explain this semantic extension a radial model of categorisation is proposed. Offering an analysis of contexts in which the prefixpost-is used in British and American press coverage, especially in relation to the 2016 UK Brexit referendum and the 2016 US presidential campaign, the article claims that the appearance of the prefix in new combinations is motivated by the need to describe the changing reality (especially in political and media discourse).
40 Jahre Deutsche Gesellschaft für Suchtforschung und Suchttherapie (DG-Sucht) 1978–2018: Ihr Beitrag zum Transfer von Forschungsergebnissen in die Praxis
Authors: Bühringer Gerhard
Published: June 2019

Zusammenfassung. Zielsetzung: Anlässlich des 40-jährigen Bestehens der DG-Sucht befasst sich diese Arbeit mit einer Zielsetzung der Gesellschaft, nämlich der Förderung der Umsetzung von Forschungsergebnissen in die Praxis der Suchthilfe in Deutschland. Methodik: Im ersten Teil wird eine Zusammenfassung wichtiger Forschungsergebnisse seit 1960 aus den Bereichen der Ätiologie, Epidemiologie und therapeutischen Interventionen vorgestellt. Im zweiten Teil erfolgt eine Analyse des Transfers dieser Ergebnisse in die Praxis, einschließlich der jeweiligen Beiträge der DG-Sucht. Ergebnisse: Der Transferprozess ist insbesondere bei der allgemeinen Vermittlung neuer Forschungserkenntnisse, der Umsetzung von Leitlinien und der therapeutischen Weiterbildung gut gelungen, vor allem im Bereich der stationären Rehabilitation. Schwächen, insbesondere im ambulanten Bereich, sind auf den Gebieten der Strukturverbesserungen, der besseren Zielgruppenerreichbarkeit und neuer Interventionen zu beobachten. Die DG-SUCHT war bei den jeweiligen Themen in sehr unterschiedlichem Ausmaß aktiv. Schlussfolgerungen: Die Suchthilfe war in den ersten Jahren ab etwa 1960 mit der Rezeption der starken Zunahme von Forschungserkenntnissen überfordert und wenig veränderungsbereit. Die DG-Sucht hat einen wichtigen Beitrag zum Praxistransfer geleistet, allerdings mit Lücken in einigen Bereichen. Der auf allen Gebieten notwendige kontinuierliche Transferprozess könnte durch einfache Maßnahmen für die Zukunft nachhaltig verbessert werden.
Thermochronology and Exhumation History of the Northeastern Fennoscandian Shield Since 1.9 Ga: Evidence From 40Ar/39Ar and Apatite Fission Track Data From the Kola Peninsula
Authors: Veselovskiy Roman V. , Thomson Stuart N. , Arzamastsev Andrey A. , Botsyun Svetlana , Travin Aleksey V. , Yudin Denis S. , Samsonov Alexander V. , Stepanova Alexandra V.
Published: June 2019

Results from thermochronological studies have multiple applications to various problems in tectonics and landform evolution. However, up to now a lack of thermochronological data from the northeastern Fennoscandian Shield has complicated the interpretation of tectonothermal evolution of the region. Here, we use both new and previously published multimineral 40Ar/39Ar data (amphibole, mica, and feldspar) on the various Precambrian magmatic and metamorphic complexes to reconstruct the thermal history of NE Fennoscandia within the Kola Peninsula area in the interval 1900–360 Ma. Using the apatite fission track method as well as a numerical model of the heating‐cooling process of northeastern Fennoscandia's upper crust, we have reconstructed its thermal evolution for the interval 360–0 Ma. According to our model, since Lapland‐Kola orogenesis (1930–1905 Ma) northeastern Fennoscandia experienced a quasi‐monotonous cooling with the average rate of ~0.15 °C/Myr, which is equal to an exhumation rate of ~1–2 m/Myr. New apatite fission track data and time‐temperature modeling reveal a “hidden” endogenous thermal event in the NE Fennoscandia that took place between 360 and 300 Ma. This we attribute to an elevated geothermal gradient due to Baltica's drift over the African large low shear‐wave velocity province in the lowest mantle and/or thermal blanketing by insulating Devonian‐Carboniferous sedimentary/volcanic cover. Our model is further supported by evidence of Late Devonian‐Carboniferous rifting in the East and South‐Western Barents Basin, as well as various 360–300 Ma magmatic events within SW Fennoscandia and the Baltic countries.
A Review of Radar‐Rain Gauge Data Merging Methods and Their Potential for Urban Hydrological Applications
Authors: Ochoa‐Rodriguez S. , Wang L.‐P. , Willems P. , Onof C.
Published: June 2019

Radar‐rain gauge merging techniques have been widely used to improve the applicability of radar and rain gauge rainfall estimates by combining their advantages, while partially overcoming their individual weaknesses. Despite significant research in this area, guidance on the suitability of and factors affecting merging techniques at the fine spatial‐temporal resolutions required for urban hydrological applications is still insufficient. In this paper, an in‐depth review of radar‐rain gauge merging techniques is conducted, with a focus on their potential for urban hydrological applications. An overview is first given of existing merging techniques and an application‐oriented categorization is proposed: (1) radar bias adjustment methods, (2) rain gauge interpolation methods using radar spatial association as additional information, and (3) radar‐rain gauge integration methods. A detailed review is given of studies focusing on the evaluation and intercomparison of merging methods, based upon which the most widely used and best performing techniques from each category are identified. These are mean field bias adjustment, kriging with external drift, and Bayesian merging. Climatological, operational, and methodological factors affecting merging performance are then reviewed and their relevance for urban applications discussed. Based on this review, conclusions on merging potential for urban applications are drawn and research gaps are identified, which should be addressed to provide further guidance on the use of merging techniques for urban hydrological applications.