bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The usefulness of past crime data as an attractiveness index for residential burglars
Authors: Hanayama Aiko , Haginoya Shumpei , Kuraishi Hiroki , Kobayashi Masakazu
Published: May 2018

This study examines the effects of neighbourhood attractiveness on the residential burglar's crime location choice process using a discrete choice model. We show that past crime data are an important index of a neighbourhood's attractiveness and can be combined with other attractiveness indices adapted from previous studies. We used data from 369 solved cases committed by 70 offenders and related these data to 1,134 areas (500 m grid cells) in Sendai City, Japan. The results showed that residential burglars were attracted to the following potential locations for crimes: (a) areas in proximity to his or her own residence; (b) areas having many or at least a higher proportion of residential burglaries in the past; (c) areas having many residential units; and (d) areas having a higher proportion of single‐family dwellings. The results confirm the validity of past crime data as an index of a neighbourhood's attractiveness for residential burglary.
Investigating the interaction of anticancer drug temsirolimus with human transferrin: Molecular docking and spectroscopic approach
Authors: Shamsi Anas , Ahmed Azaj , Khan Mohd Shahnawaz , Husain Fohad Mabood , Amani Samreen , Bano Bilqees
Published: May 2018

In our present study, binding between an important anti renal cancer drug temsirolimus and human transferrin (hTF) was investigated employing spectroscopic and molecular docking approach. In the presence of temsirolimus, hyper chromaticity is observed in hTF in UV spectroscopy suggestive of complex formation between hTF and temsirolimus. Fluorescence spectroscopy revealed the occurrence of quenching in hTF in the presence of temsirolimus implying complex formation taking place between hTF and temsirolimus. Further, the mode of interaction between hTF and temsirolimus was revealed to be static by fluorescence quenching analysis at 3 different temperatures. Binding constant values obtained employing fluorescence spectroscopy depicts strong interaction between hTF and temsirolimus; temsirolimus binds to hTF at 298 K with a binding constant of .32 × 104 M−1 implying the strength of this interaction. The negative Gibbs free energy obtained through quenching experiments is evident of the fact that the binding is spontaneous. CD spectra of hTF also showed a downward shift in the presence of temsirolimus as compared with free hTF implying complex formation between hTF and temsirolimus. Molecular docking was performed with a view to find out which residues are key players in this interaction. The importance of our study stems from the fact it will provide an insight into binding pattern of commonly administered renal cancer drug with an important protein that plays a pivotal role in many physiological processes.
Assay of lovastatin containing dietary supplement by LC‐MS/MS under MRM condition
Authors: Di Donna Leonardo , Bartella Lucia , Napoli Anna , Sindona Giovanni , Mazzotti Fabio
Published: May 2018

Monacolin K, the active ingredient present in dietary supplement, is a nutraceutical whose health benefits have been widely documented. A fast approach for the assay of lovastatin in both forms, lactone and acid, by mass spectrometry is presented. The quantitative assay is carried out by high‐performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry by using the multiple reaction monitoring mode and simvastatin and pravastatin as internal standards. The accuracy values ranged from 97 to 101%; the analytical parameter values of limit of quantitation, limit of detection, recovery, and reproducibility were calculated by analyzing fortified samples, confirming the reliability of the proposed approach.
Gait mechanics and tibiofemoral loading in men of the ACL‐SPORTS randomized control trial
Authors: Capin Jacob J. , Khandha Ashutosh , Zarzycki Ryan , Arundale Amelia J.H. , Ziegler Melissa L. , Manal Kurt , Buchanan Thomas S. , Snyder‐Mackler Lynn
Published: May 2018

The risk for post‐traumatic osteoarthritis is elevated after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), and may be especially high among individuals with aberrant walking mechanics, such as medial tibiofemoral joint underloading 6 months postoperatively. Rehabilitation training programs have been proposed as one strategy to address aberrant gait mechanics. We developed the anterior cruciate ligament specialized post‐operative return‐to‐sports (ACL‐SPORTS) randomized control trial to test the effect of 10 post‐operative training sessions consisting of strength, agility, plyometric, and secondary prevention exercises (SAPP) or SAPP plus perturbation (SAPP + PERT) training on gait mechanics after ACLR. A total of 40 male athletes (age 23 ± 7 years) after primary ACLR were randomized to SAPP or SAPP + PERT training and tested at three distinct, post‐operative time points: 1) after impairment resolution (Pre‐training); 2) following 10 training sessions (Post‐training); and 3) 2 years after ACLR. Knee kinematic and kinetic variables as well as muscle and joint contact forces were calculated via inverse dynamics and a validated electromyography‐informed musculoskeletal model. There were no significant improvements from Pre‐training to Post‐training in either intervention group. Smaller peak knee flexion angles, extension moments, extensor muscle forces, medial compartment contact forces, and tibiofemoral contact forces were present across group and time, however the magnitude of interlimb differences were generally smaller and likely not meaningful 2 years postoperatively. Neither SAPP nor SAPP + PERT training appears effective at altering gait mechanics in men in the short‐term; however, meaningful gait asymmetries mostly resolved between post‐training and 2 years after ACLR regardless of intervention group. © 2018 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:2364–2372, 2018.
Preparation and Performance Evaluation of Fatty Amine Polyoxyethylene Ether Diethyl Disulfonate for Enhanced Oil Recovery in High‐Temperature and High‐Salinity Reservoirs
Authors: Zhang Yan , You Qing , Fang Jichao , Liu Yifei , Gao Mingwei , Fan Hongfu , Dai Caili
Published: May 2018

To enhance oil recovery in high‐temperature and high‐salinity reservoirs, a novel fatty amine polyoxyethylene ether diethyl disulfonate (FPDD) surfactant with excellent interfacial properties was synthesized. The interfacial tension (IFT) and contact angle at high temperature and high salinity were systematically investigated using an interface tension meter and a contact angle meter. According to the experimental results, the IFT between crude oil and high‐salinity brine water could reach an ultra‐low value of 10−3 mN m−1 without the aid of extra alkali at 90°C after aging. The FPDD surfactant has strong wettability alternation ability that shifts wettability from oil‐wet to water‐wet. The FPDD surfactant with a high concentration also has good emulsion ability under high‐temperature and high‐salinity conditions. Through this research work, we expect to fill the lack of surfactants for high‐temperature and high‐salinity reservoirs and broaden its great potential application area in enhanced oil recovery.
Multicomponent Reactions for Surface Modification
Authors: Wu Haibo , Gou Yanzi , Wang Jun , Tao Lei
Published: May 2018

Modification of material surfaces with polymers is an effective method to develop applicable polymer–material composites. Recently, multicomponent reactions (MCRs) have found their roles in advanced polymer chemistry and applied in surface modification. In this mini review, recent results of MCRs for surface modification are summarized, including the utilization of MCRs as coupling tools to link polymers on material surfaces, and polymers containing multicomponent structures for surface modification. The unique properties of these polymer–material composites stemming from MCRs are introduced, and the preliminary applications of these composites are also discussed.
Shell‐Sheddable Poly(N‐2‐hydroxypropyl methacrylamide) Polymeric Micelles for Dual‐Sensitive Release of Doxorubicin
Authors: Zhang Jiajing , Tang Hao , Shen Yi , Yu Qingsong , Gan Zhihua
Published: May 2018

Poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) shell‐sheddable micelles are proved to be effective tools for rapid intracellular drug delivery. However, some adverse factors, such as the potential immunogenicity and the accelerated blood clearance, might be accompanied with the traditional PEG sheddable micelles. Here, a poly(N‐2‐hydroxypropyl methacrylamide) (PHPMA) sheddable block copolymer containing disulfide bonds on the main chain is prepared to form pH‐ and reduction‐dual‐responsive micelles. The most optimal synthetic route of the block copolymer is selected from three potential pathways. Doxorubicin is loaded via an acid‐labile hydrazone bond to achieve high drug loading content and to prevent premature drug release. As expected, as‐prepared shell‐sheddable micelles exhibit faster intracellular drug release and more satisfactory in vitro anticancer efficacy than the nonsheddable counterpart did. This design provides a feasible guideline for the efficient synthesis of similar shell‐sheddable micelles consisting of PHPMA coatings.
Influence of Heat Treatment on Loading of Polymeric Multilayer Microcapsules with Rhodamine B
Authors: Ermakov Alexey V. , Inozemtseva Olga A. , Gorin Dmitry A. , Sukhorukov Gleb B. , Belyakov Sergei , Antipina Maria N.
Published: May 2018

Layer‐by‐layer assembled polymeric multilayer capsules (PMC) of micrometer sizes are permeable for molecules below 1 KDa; therefore, the efficacy of such capsules in the delivery of low molecular weight water soluble bioactive compounds and drugs is frequently challenged. Thermally induced contraction of hollow PMC is explored here to enhance their loading efficacy with model compound, fluorescent rhodamine B (RhB). Four bilayered capsules obtained of poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride)/polystyrene sulfonate ([PDADMAC/PSS]4) or poly‐l‐arginine/dextran sulfate ([PARG/DS]4) on sacrificial CaCO3 spherical microparticles are postloaded with RhB at ambient or elevated temperatures. The influence of heat on capsule loading is determined quantitatively by varying the amounts of capsules in the batch and keeping the concentration of RhB constant. The applied heat improves the loading efficacy of [PDADMAC/PSS]4 capsules at concentrations up to 2.25 × 109 capsules mL−1, but has a reversed effect on [PARG/DS]4 capsules at all studied concentrations ((0–3.5) × 109 capsules mL−1).
Evaluation of Three Electrical Outputs in an Electro-Immobilization System to Reduce Induction Time during Routine Handling of Fish at a Hatchery
Authors: Nguyen Phong L , Haman Katherine , Carstensen LeeRoy , McKlveen Tori , Cooney Patrick , Gibson Scott
Published: May 2018

Tools designed to electrically induce fish immobilization are increasingly being implemented by practitioners for safe and effective fish handling. Currently used methods for electro-immobilizing batches of fish incorporate a period of hyperactivity that serves to reduce spinal injuries in fish. However, like the hyperactive period that is seen in other fish immobilization techniques, it provides a visually unappealing effect and introduces questions surrounding humane animal treatment. In this study, three different electro-immobilization treatments were evaluated for rates and severity of injury as well as time to immobilization to determine ways of reducing the hyperactive period while also maintaining low rates of injury. Tests were conducted in a Smith-Root EA-1000B System on adult summer steelhead Oncorhynchus mykiss at the Cowlitz Salmon Hatchery (Salkum, Washington). Treatments included an electrical output setting commonly used at the facility, two experimental electrical outputs, and a chemical anesthetic (MS-222) treatment that served as a control. Efficacy, indicated as time to immobilization, was evaluated among electrical output treatments; humane fish treatment, measured by hemorrhage, spinal injuries, and mortality, was quantified and compared among all treatments. Analysis of variance indicated a significant difference in induction times among electrical treatment groups, which ranged from 14.2 ± 4.9 to 53.4 ± 2.6 s (mean ± 95% CI). Some spinal and hemorrhage injuries were observed in all treatment groups; however, only one electrical treatment had significantly higher (P = 0.003) incidence and severity of injuries compared to the control. Results indicate that hatchery managers can significantly reduce the time needed to immobilize fish while maintaining minimal fish injury rates when using a commercial electro-immobilization system.
Winter-Rearing Temperature Affects Growth Profiles, Age of Maturation, and Smolt-to-Adult Returns for Yearling Summer Chinook Salmon in the Upper Columbia River Basin
Authors: Harstad Deborah L. , Larsen Donald A. , Miller Joseph , Adams Ian , Spangenberg Dina K. , Nance Shelly , Rohrbach Larissa , Murauskas Joshua G. , Beckman Brian R.
Published: May 2018

We assessed the effects of rearing conditions in four hatchery programs from the upper Columbia River basin on the survival and demographics of yearling summer Chinook Salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha over four release years. Juveniles from each hatchery program were initially reared at Eastbank Hatchery near Wenatchee, Washington, (which uses groundwater for fish rearing) and experienced similar rearing temperatures until their first autumn in culture. Fish that were to be used for two of the programs were subsequently transferred to surface water acclimation sites, where they were reared until release the following spring (surface water winter rearing). Fish to be used for the other two programs were overwintered at the Eastbank Hatchery and then transferred to their acclimation and release sites 1 to 2 months before spring release (groundwater winter rearing). Fish from the two rearing strategies experienced contrasting temperature profiles, which in turn affected winter growth, age at maturation, and smolt-to-adult survival (SAS). Overall, the two release groups that were overwintered in colder surface water experienced reduced winter growth, reduced minijack rate, and smaller size at release, but achieved a two- to threefold higher SAS than did the two release groups overwintered in warmer groundwater at Eastbank Hatchery. In addition, based on migration data compiled from fish tagged with PIT tags, smaller juveniles tended to mature at older age-classes than did larger smolts. We concluded that rearing yearling hatchery summer Chinook Salmon under more natural thermal regimes (surface water) may result in the return of larger, older adults that have a higher survival rate than would fish reared under constant or less natural thermal regimes (ground water). These results highlight the importance of the hatchery-rearing environment in shaping the survival and life history of summer Chinook Salmon juveniles released into the Columbia River basin.
A Riemannian trust‐region method for low‐rank tensor completion
Authors: Heidel Gennadij , Schulz Volker
Published: May 2018

The goal of tensor completion is to fill in missing entries of a partially known tensor (possibly including some noise) under a low‐rank constraint. This may be formulated as a least‐squares problem. The set of tensors of a given multilinear rank is known to admit a Riemannian manifold structure; thus, methods of Riemannian optimization are applicable. In our work, we derive the Riemannian Hessian of an objective function on the low‐rank tensor manifolds using the Weingarten map, a concept from differential geometry. We discuss the convergence properties of Riemannian trust‐region methods based on the exact Hessian and standard approximations, both theoretically and numerically. We compare our approach with Riemannian tensor completion methods from recent literature, both in terms of convergence behavior and computational complexity. Our examples include the completion of randomly generated data with and without noise and the recovery of multilinear data from survey statistics.
High refractive index adamantane‐based silicone resins for the encapsulation of light‐emitting diodes
Authors: Tong Lin , Feng Yakai , Sun Xujun , Han Ying , Jiao Dongshun , Tan Xiaohua
Published: May 2018

The encapsulation of high power light emitting diode (LED) needs the silicone resins to have relative high refractive index and thermal‐aging properties. Herein, high refractive index adamantane‐based phenyl epoxy‐silicone (APES) resins for LED encapsulation were synthesized by the sol‐gel condensation of 1‐adamantane methanol propyltrimethoxysilane‐3‐urethane, γ‐(2,3‐epoxypropoxy)propytrimethoxysilane and diphenylsilanediol. These adamantane‐based silicone resins have multifunctional groups including adamantyl group, phenyl group, and epoxy group in order to meet the various requirements for LED encapsulation. Importantly, the adamantane group in the silicone resins benefits for high refractive index and anti‐thermal properties. These APES resins were characterized by proton nuclear magnetic resonance and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. When APES resins were cured by methylhexahydrophthalic anhydride, they showed relatively high refractive index of 1.56, high hardness, and high thermal resistance. The encapsulated LED demonstrated high adhesion properties by red‐ink tests. These merits make adamantane‐based silicone resins promising candidates as LED encapsulation materials.
Highly stretchable, tough, and self‐recoverable and self‐healable dual physically crosslinked hydrogels with synergistic “soft and hard” networks
Authors: Li Xuefeng , Zhao Youjiao , Li Dapeng , Zhang Gaowen , Gao Xiang , Long Shijun
Published: May 2018

Strength, toughness and self‐recoverability are among the most important properties of hydrogels for tissue‐engineering applications. Yet, it remains a challenge to achieve these desired properties from the synthesis of a single‐polymer hydrogel. Here, we report our one‐pot, a monomer‐polymerization approach to addressing the challenge by creating dual physically crosslinked hybrid networks, in particular, synergistic “soft and hard” polyacrylic acid‐Fe3+ hydrogels (SHPAAc‐Fe3+). Favorable mechanical properties achieved from such SHPAAc‐Fe3+ hydrogels included high tensile strength (about 1.08 MPa), large elongation at break (about 38 times), excellent work of extension (about 19 MJ m−3), and full self‐recoverability (100% recovery of initial properties within 15 min at 50°C and within 60 min in ambient conditions, respectively). In addition, the hydrogels exhibited good self‐healing capabilities at ambient conditions (about 40% tensile strength recovery without any external stimuli). This work demonstrates that dual physical crosslinking combining hydrophobic interaction and ionic association can be achieved in single‐polymer hydrogels with significantly improved mechanical performance but without sacrificing favorable properties. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 59:145–154, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Leader‐following consensus of multiple uncertain Euler‐Lagrange systems
Authors: Lu Maobin , Liu Lu
Published: May 2018

A new adaptive distributed controller is developed for the leader‐following consensus problem of multiple uncertain Euler‐Lagrange systems. A distinct feature of our proposed approach as opposed to the existing ones is that it does not need the exchange of controller's state among the communication network. As a consequence, it not only makes the implementation of the controller much easier but also reduces the communication cost. The effectiveness of the main result is demonstrated by some exemplary applications to cooperative control of multiple two‐link robot arms.
Conclusive Evidence for OCT4 Transcription in Human Cancer Cell Lines: Possible Role of a Small OCT4-Positive Cancer Cell Population
Authors: Miyamoto Tomoyuki , Mizuno Nobuhiko , Kosaka Mitsuko , Fujitani Yoko , Ohno Eiji , Ohtsuka Aiji
Published: May 2018

The role of octamer-binding transcription factor 4 (OCT4) in human cancer is still debated. Although many studies have been published on human OCT4, determining which of the findings are accurate or which are false-positives is currently challenging. We thus developed the most reliable method to date for highly specific and comprehensive detection of genuine OCT4-transcript variants without false-positive results. Our results provided clear evidence that the transcripts of OCT4A, OCT4B, OCT4B1, and other novel splicing variants are indeed present in many cancer cell lines, but are rarely detected in normal tissue-derived differentiated cells. Using the tagged genomic transgene, we then verified endogenous OCT4A translation in cancer cell subpopulations. Moreover, analysis of possible other protein isoforms by enforced expression of OCT4B variants showed that the B164 isoform, designated human OCT4C, is preferentially produced in a cap-dependent manner. We confirmed that the OCT4C isoform, similar to OCT4A, can transform non-tumorigenic fibroblasts in vitro. Finally, ablation of OCT4-positive cells using promoter-driven diphtheria toxin A in high malignant cancer cells caused a significant decrease in migration and Matrigel invasion. These findings strongly suggest a significant contribution of OCT4 to the phenotype of human cancer cells.
Concise Review: Current Status of Three-Dimensional Organoids as Preclinical Models
Authors: Kaushik Garima , Ponnusamy Moorthy P. , Batra Surinder K.
Published: May 2018

Three-dimensional (3D) cultures use the property of some cells to self-organize in matrices and generate structures that can be programmed to represent an organ or a pathology. Organoid cultures are the 3D cultivation of source tissue (ranging from cells to tissue fragments) in a support matrix and specialized media that nearly resembles the physiological environment. Depending on the source tissue, growth factors, and inhibitors provided, organoids can be programmed to recapitulate the biology of a system and progression of pathology. Organoids are genetically stable, and genetically amenable, making them very suitable tools to study tissue homeostasis and cancer. In this Review, we focus on providing recent technical advances from published literature to efficiently use organoids as a tool for disease modeling and therapeutics. Also, we discuss stem cell biology principles used to generate multiple organoids and their characteristics, with a brief description of methodology. A major theme of this review is to expand organoid applications to the study disease progression and drug response in different cancers. We also discuss shortcomings, limitations, and advantages of developed 3D cultures, with the rationale behind the methodology.
Tuples all the Way Down?
Authors: Hewitt Simon Thomas ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: May 2018

We can introduce singular terms for ordered pairs by means of an abstraction principle. Doing so proves useful for a number of projects in the philosophy of mathematics. However there is a question whether we can appeal to the abstraction principle in good faith, since a version of the Caesar Problem can be generated, posing the worry that abstraction fails to introduce expressions which refer determinately to the requisite sort of object. In this note I will pose the difficulty, and then propose a solution. Since my solution appeals to a plausible constraint on the introduction of new expressions to a language, it is of interest independently of the particular case of terms for pairs. Since these provide the occasion for discussion we should nonetheless review the use of abstraction for pairs before the argumentative business of the paper commences.
Logarithmic corrections to black hole entropy: the non-BPS branch
Authors: Castro Alejandra , Godet Victor , Larsen Finn , Zeng Yangwenxiao
Published: May 2018

Abstract

We compute the leading logarithmic correction to black hole entropy on the non-BPS branch of 4D$$ \mathcal{N}\ge 2 $$N≥2supergravity theories. This branch corresponds to finite temperature black holes whose extremal limit does not preserve supersymmetry, such as theD0 −D6 system in string theory. Starting from a black hole in minimal Kaluza-Klein theory, we discuss in detail its embedding into$$ \mathcal{N}=8 $$N=8, 6, 4, 2 supergravity, its spectrum of quadratic fluctuations in all these environments, and the resulting quantum corrections. We find that thec-anomaly vanishes only when$$ \mathcal{N}\ge 6 $$N≥6, in contrast to the BPS branch wherecvanishes for all$$ \mathcal{N}\ge 2 $$N≥2. We briefly discuss potential repercussions this feature could have in a microscopic description of these black holes.
Stress-stress correlator in ϕ4 theory: poles or a cut?
Authors: Moore Guy D.
Published: May 2018

Abstract

We explore the analytical properties of the traceless stress tensor 2-point function at zero momentum and small frequency (relevant for shear viscosity and hydrodynamic response) in hot, weakly coupled λϕ
4 theory. We show that, rather than one or a small number of poles, the correlator has a cut along the negative imaginary frequency axis. We briefly discuss this result’s relevance for constructing 2’nd order hydrodynamic models of hot relativistic field theories.
Ghostbusters in f (R) supergravity
Authors: Fujimori Toshiaki , Nitta Muneto , Ohashi Keisuke , Yamada Yusuke
Published: May 2018

Abstract

f(R) supergravity is known to contain a ghost mode associated with higher-derivative terms if it containsRnwithngreater than two. We remove the ghost inf(R) supergravity by introducing auxiliary gauge field to absorb the ghost. We dub this method as the ghostbuster mechanism [1]. We show that the mechanism removes the ghost super-multiplet but also terms includingRnwithn≥ 3, after integrating out auxiliary degrees of freedom. For pure supergravity case, there appears an instability in the resultant scalar potential. We then show that the instability of the scalar potential can be cured by introducing matter couplings in such a way that the system has a stable potential.
Phases and stability of non-uniform black strings
Authors: Emparan Roberto , Luna Raimon , Martínez Marina , Suzuki Ryotaku , Tanabe Kentaro
Published: May 2018

Abstract

We construct solutions of non-uniform black strings in dimensions fromD≈ 9 all the way up toD= ∞, and investigate their thermodynamics and dynamical stability. Our approach employs the large-Dperturbative expansion beyond the leading order, including corrections up to 1/D4. Combining both analytical techniques and relatively simple numerical solution of ODEs, we map out the ranges of parameters in which non-uniform black strings exist in each dimension and compute their thermodynamics and quasinormal modes with accuracy. We establish with very good precision the existence of Sorkin’s critical dimension and we prove that not only the thermodynamic stability, but also the dynamic stability of the solutions changes at it.
Electroweak gauge boson parton distribution functions
Authors: Fornal Bartosz , Manohar Aneesh V. , Waalewijn Wouter J.
Published: May 2018

Abstract

Transverse and longitudinal electroweak gauge boson parton distribution functions (PDFs) are computed in terms of deep-inelastic scattering structure functions, following the recently developed method to determine the photon PDF. The calculation provides initial conditions at the electroweak scale for PDF evolution to higher energies. Numerical results for the W
± and Z transverse, longitudinal and polarized PDFs, as well as the γZ transverse and polarized PDFs are presented.
Largest-chunk strategy for syllable-based segmentation
Authors: DRIENKÓ LÁSZLÓ
Published: May 2018

abstract

We apply the largest-chunk segmentation algorithm to texts consisting of syllables as smallest units. The algorithm was proposed in Drienkó (2016, 2017a), where it was used for texts considered to have letters/characters as smallest units. The present study investigates whether the largest chunk segmentation strategy can result in higher precision of boundary inference when syllables are processed rather than characters. The algorithm looks for subsequent largest chunks that occur at least twice in the text, where text means a single sequence of characters, without punctuation or spaces. The results are quantified in terms of four precision metrics: Inference Precision, Alignment Precision, Redundancy, and Boundary Variability. We segment CHILDES texts in four languages: English, Hungarian, Mandarin, and Spanish. The data suggest that syllable-based segmentation enhances inference precision. Thus, our experiments (i) provide further support for the possible role of a cognitive largest-chunk segmentation strategy, and (ii) point to the syllable as a more optimal unit for segmentation than the letter/phoneme/character, (iii) in a cross-linguistic context.
Last 1100 yr of precipitation variability in western central Asia as revealed by tree-ring data from the Pamir-Alay
Authors: Opała-Owczarek Magdalena , Niedźwiedź Tadeusz
Published: May 2018

We developed a 1108 yr chronology of tree-ring widths, based on 64 Himalayan pencil juniper (Juniperus semiglobosa Regel) trees, for the Pamir-Alay Mountains, central Asia. Dendroclimatological analysis demonstrates that precipitation has significant effects on tree growth in the semiarid mountainous area of northwestern Tajikistan located on the edge of the great midlatitude Karakum and Kyzylkum deserts. The highest level of linear correlation (r=0.67) is observed between tree growth and seasonalised winter (previous December–February) precipitation. Our studies also show that moisture (precipitation/Palmer Drought Severity Index) from the previous June to the current September was the dominant climatic factor accounting for interannual variations in tree-ring width, suggesting that this should be considered in climate reconstruction. Using the transfer function method, we reconstructed the region’s drought history over the period AD 908–2015. The results of this moisture reconstruction showed that the most recent millennium was characterised by series of dry and wet stages. The driest periods occurred before 1000, 1200–1250, and at the end of the eighteenth century and beginning of the nineteenth century. The wettest conditions existed in 1650–1700 and after 1990.
Exploring pathways to late Holocene increased surface wetness in subarctic peatlands of eastern Canada
Authors: van Bellen Simon , Garneau Michelle , Baird Andy , Bourgault Marc-André , Quillet Anne
Published: May 2018

The poor fens of the Laforge region, northeastern Canada, have developed under subarctic conditions. They are characterized by a microtopography of large pools and low, narrow strings. Paleorecords suggest some of these systems were once ombrotrophic and relatively dry. Taking account of their current bioclimatic position, we aimed to explore the possible pathways towards the current wet state, a process referred to as “aqualysis”. We combined paleoecological methods applied to a peat core with conceptual modelling to identify factors that might plausibly explain aqualysis. Reconstructions showed the Abeille peatland became minerotrophic with high water tables between 2400 and 2100 cal yr BP. Conceptual modelling, supported by simulations using the numerical DigiBog model, allowed us to identify the effects of cooling and increased precipitation on productivity, decay, peat hydraulic conductivity and vertical peat accumulation. Both cooling and increased precipitation were required for aqualysis to occur and for wet surface conditions to persist to the present day. Increased recharge from the catchment, which also restricted drainage from the peatland center laterally, was likely critical for the development of minerotrophic conditions. The scenario of cooling and wetting in these peatlands is supported by available paleoclimate records for eastern Canada.
Adherence to the New Nordic Diet during pregnancy and subsequent maternal weight development: a study conducted in the Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort Study (MoBa)
Authors: Skreden Marianne , Hillesund Elisabet R. , Wills Andrew K. , Brantsæter Anne Lise , Bere Elling , Øverby Nina C.
Published: May 2018

The rising prevalence of overweight and obesity is a worldwide public health challenge. Pregnancy and beyond is a potentially important window for future weight gain in women. We investigated associations between maternal adherence to the New Nordic diet (NND) during pregnancy and maternal BMI trajectories from delivery to 8 years post delivery. Data are from the Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort. Pregnant women from all of Norway were recruited between 1999 and 2008, and 55 056 are included in the present analysis. A previously constructed diet score, NND, was used to assess adherence to the diet. The score favours intake of Nordic fruits, root vegetables, cabbages, potatoes, oatmeal porridge, whole grains, wild fish, game, berries, milk and water. Linear spline multi-level models were used to estimate the association. We found that women with higher adherence to the NND pattern during pregnancy had on average lower post-partum BMI trajectories and slightly less weight gain up to 8 years post delivery compared with the lower NND adherers. These associations remained after adjustment for physical activity, education, maternal age, smoking and parity (mean diff at delivery (high v. low adherers): −0·3 kg/m2; 95 % CI −0·4, −0·2; mean diff at 8 years: −0·5 kg/m2; 95 % CI −0·6, −0·4), and were not explained by differences in energy intake or by exclusive breast-feeding duration. Similar patterns of associations were seen with trajectories of overweight/obesity as the outcome. In conclusion, our findings suggest that the NND may have beneficial properties to long-term weight regulation among women post-partum.
Low birth weight is associated with increased fat intake in school-aged boys
Authors: Bischoff Adrianne R. , Portella André K. , Paquet Catherine , Dalle Molle Roberta , Faber Aida , Arora Narendra , Levitan Robert D. , Silveira Patrícia P. , Dube Laurette
Published: May 2018

Evidence suggests that both high and low birth weight children have increased the risk for obesity and the metabolic syndrome in adulthood. Previously we have found altered feeding behaviour and food preferences in pre-school children and adults born with low birth weight. In this study, we investigated if birth weight was associated with different intake of fat, carbohydrate and/or protein at 6–12 years of age. This is a cross-sectional study where 255 guardians answered online and telephone questions including anthropometrics and demographic data, parental family food rules (food control, encouragement and restriction) and a complete web-based FFQ for their children (130 boys and 125 girls). Baseline demographic and parental food rules characteristics did not differ accordingly to sex. Linear regression models were conducted separately for each sex, adjusted for income, age and maternal age. There were no differences in total energy intake, but energy density (ED, energy content/g) was negatively associated with birth weight in boys. Macronutrient analysis showed that ED intake was from a greater intake of fat. Birth weight was not a significant predictor of protein and carbohydrate intake in boys. In girls, we saw a positive correlation between fat intake and cholesterol intakev. birth weight, but no association with ED intake (results did not remain after adjustment). The study shows that low birth weight is associated with altered fat intake in childhood in a sex-specific manner. It is likely that biological factors such as fetal programming of homoeostatic and/or hedonic pathways influencing food preferences are involved in this process.
A Neo-Kantian Account of Perception
Authors: Stevenson Leslie
Published: May 2018

I suggest a reconstruction of Kant's theory of perception – in particular his notions of intuition, concept, sensible impression, sensation, synthesis and combination – informed by the progress of philosophy and human and animal psychology since his time. I take from Burge the distinction between unconceptualized perception of objects (found in animals, infants, and to some extent in adult humans) and our conceptualized, judgmental perceptual experience. Kant concentrated on the latter, but he can be seen to leave room for the former, especially if we make clearer distinctions than he did between sensible impression and sensation, and between synthesis and combination.
Startle habituation, sensory, and sensorimotor gating in trauma-affected refugees with posttraumatic stress disorder
Authors: Meteran Hanieh , Vindbjerg Erik , Uldall Sigurd Wiingaard , Glenthøj Birte , Carlsson Jessica , Oranje Bob
Published: May 2018

Background

Impairments in mechanisms underlying early information processing have been reported in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD); however, findings in the existing literature are inconsistent. This current study capitalizes on technological advancements of research on electroencephalographic event-related potential and applies it to a novel PTSD population consisting of trauma-affected refugees.

Methods

A total of 25 trauma-affected refugees with PTSD and 20 healthy refugee controls matched on age, gender, and country of origin completed the study. In two distinct auditory paradigms sensory gating, indexed as P50 suppression, and sensorimotor gating, indexed as prepulse inhibition (PPI), startle reactivity, and habituation of the eye-blink startle response were examined. Within the P50 paradigm, N100 and P200 amplitudes were also assessed. In addition, correlations between psychophysiological and clinical measures were investigated.

Results

PTSD patients demonstrated significantly elevated stimuli responses across the two paradigms, reflected in both increased amplitude of the eye-blink startle response, and increased N100 and P200 amplitudes relative to healthy refugee controls. We found a trend toward reduced habituation in the patients, while the groups did not differ in PPI and P50 suppression. Among correlations, we found that eye-blink startle responses were associated with higher overall illness severity and lower levels of functioning.

Conclusions

Fundamental gating mechanisms appeared intact, while the pattern of deficits in trauma-affected refugees with PTSD point toward a different form of sensory overload, an overall neural hypersensitivity and disrupted the ability to down-regulate stimuli responses. This study represents an initial step toward elucidating sensory processing deficits in a PTSD subgroup.
The Annexe of the Roman Fort at Slack, West Yorkshire: Excavations by B.R. Hartley in 1968–9
Authors: Bidwell Paul , Croom Alexandra , Hodgson Nick
Published: May 2018

This paper represents the final publication of excavations by Brian Hartley in the northern annexe of the Roman fort at Slack, West Yorkshire, carried out half a century ago, but still providing rare evidence for activity within an annexe and the nature of its defences. Hartley concluded that the annexe enclosed a civilianvicusof Trajanic–Hadrianic date, although its defensive enclosure was provided only in the Hadrianic period. This report upholds that conclusion. In the light of recent claims of later Roman occupation at Slack, Hartley's conclusion that the site was abandoned byc.a.d.140 is examined and upheld. It is proposed that a second annexe at Slack enclosed the fort baths (and possibly amansio) and by examining the Slack annexes in the context of other fort/annexe plans an attempt is made to distinguish between annexes enclosing fortviciand those enclosing official or military activities.
Moral externalization may precede, not follow, subjective preferences
Authors: Kaznatcheev Artem , Shultz Thomas R.
Published: May 2018

We offer four counterarguments against Stanford's dismissal of moral externalization as an ancestral condition, based on requirements for ancestral states, mismatch between theoretical and empirical games, passively correlated interactions, and social interfaces that prevent agents’ knowing game payoffs. The fact that children's externalized phenomenology precedes their discovery of subjectivized phenomenology also suggests that externalized phenomenology is an ancestral condition.
Is all morality or just prosociality externalized?
Authors: Poulin Michael J.
Published: May 2018

It is more likely that externalized morality that facilitated cooperation (externalized prosociality) was selected for versus other types of moral impulses. Recent research suggests that those other moral impulses may actually be at root prosocial, in that judgments about them are indirectly about avoidance of harm. Externalized prosociality may help explain why prosocial behavior benefits individuals.
Moralization of preferences and conventions and the dynamics of tribal formation
Authors: Ross Don
Published: May 2018

Stanford casts original light on the question of why humans moralize some preferences. However, his account leaves some ambiguity around the relationship between the evolutionary function of moralization and the dynamics of tribal formation. Does the model govern these dynamics, or only explain why there are moralizing dispositions that more conventional modeling of the dynamics can exploit?
Externalization of moral demands does not motivate exclusion of non-cooperators: A defense of a subjectivist moral psychology
Authors: Schulz Armin W.
Published: May 2018

It is not clear how a moral demand alone can motivate an agent to exclude those who fail to act as the demand states. A more plausible hypothesis for the evolution of human moral cognition is based on seeing moral demands as subjective, but inherently conjunctive. This subjectivist-conjunctive proposal can still account for the apparent externalization of moral demands.
Disgust as a mechanism for externalization: Coordination and disassociation
Authors: Wiegman Isaac
Published: May 2018

I extend Stanford's proposal in two ways by focusing on a possible mechanism of externalization: disgust. First, I argue that externalization also has value for solving coordination problems where interests of different groups coincide. Second, Stanford's proposal also holds promise for explaining why people “over-comply” with norms through disassociation, or the avoidance of actions that merely appear to violate norms.
A cognitive, non-selectionist account of moral externalism
Authors: Zinser Jason
Published: May 2018

A general feature of our moral psychology is that we feel that some moral demands are motivated externally. Stanford explains this feature with an evolutionary account, such that moral externalism was selected for its ability to facilitate prosocial interactions. Alternatively, I argue that a cognitive, non-selectionist account of moral externalism is a more parsimonious explanation.
A methodological synthesis of self-paced reading in second language research
Authors: MARSDEN EMMA , THOMPSON SOPHIE , PLONSKY LUKE
Published: May 2018

Self-paced reading tests (SPRs) are being increasingly adopted by second language (L2) researchers. Using SPR with L2 populations presents specific challenges, and its use is still evolving in L2 research (as well as in first language research, in many respects). Although the topic of several narrative overviews (Keating & Jegerski, 2015; Roberts, 2016), we do not have a comprehensive picture of its usage in L2 research. Building on the growing body of systematic reviews of research practices in applied linguistics (e.g., Liu & Brown, 2015; Plonsky, 2013), we report a methodological synthesis of the rationales, study contexts, and methodological decision making in L2 SPR research. Our comprehensive search yielded 74 SPRs used in L2 research. Each instrument was coded along 121 parameters, including: reported rationales and study characteristics, indicating the scope and nature of L2 SPR research agendas; design and analysis features and reporting practices, determining instrument validity and reliability; and materials transparency, affecting reproducibility and systematicity of agendas. Our findings indicate an urgent need to standardize the use and reporting of this technique, requiring empirical investigation to inform methodological decision making. We also identify several areas (e.g., study design, sample demographics, instrument construction, data analysis, and transparency) where SPR research could be improved to enrich our understanding of L2 processing, reading, and learning.
Suppression of drill-string stick–slip vibration by sliding mode control: Numerical and experimental studies
Authors: VAZIRI VAHID , KAPITANIAK MARCIN , WIERCIGROCH MARIAN
Published: May 2018

We investigate experimentally and numerically suppression of drill-string torsional vibration while drilling by using a sliding mode control. The experiments are conducted on the novel experimental drill-string dynamics rig developed at the University of Aberdeen (Wiercigroch, M., 2010, Modelling and Analysis of BHA and Drill-string Vibrations) and using commercial Polycrystalline Diamond Compact (PDC) drill-bits and rock-samples. A mathematical model of the experimental setup, which takes into account the dynamics of the drill-string and the driving motor, is constructed. Physical parameters of the experimental rig are identified in order to calibrate the mathematical model and consequently to ensure robust predictions and a close agreement between experimental and numerical results for stick–slip vibration is shown. Then, a sliding mode control method is employed to suppress stick–slip vibration. A special attention is paid to prove the Lyapunov stability of the controller in presence of model parameter uncertainties by defining a robust Lyapunov function. Again experimental and numerical results for the control cases are in a close agreement. Stick–slip vibration is eliminated and a significant reduction in vibration amplitude has been observed when using the sliding controller.
The effects of uncertain forest conservation benefits on long-run deforestation in the Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Di Corato Luca , Moretto Michele , Vergalli Sergio
Published: May 2018

Deforestation results from the trade-off between benefits from forest conservation and economic profits associated with land development. However, as net gains are often uncertain, irreversible land development may later be regretted. To better inform conservation policies, we use a real options framework to model irreversible forest conversion under uncertain conservation benefits and determine the associated optimal long-run average rate of deforestation. We then analyze the impact of the demand for agricultural products on the rate of deforestation in the Brazilian Amazon. In a scenario analysis for the nine states of the Brazilian Amazon, we calculate: (i) the expected time for exhaustion of the current forest stock; and (ii) the potential forest coverage for the next 20, 100 and 200 years. Our results suggest that if forest benefits grow over time at a sufficiently high speed, they may significantly slow down deforestation. In contrast, the higher their volatility, the faster deforestation proceeds.
LOCAL VANISHING AND HODGE FILTRATION FOR RATIONAL SINGULARITIES
Authors: Mustaţă Mircea , Olano Sebastián , Popa Mihnea
Published: May 2018

Given an $n$-dimensional variety $Z$ with rational singularities, we conjecture that if $f:Y\rightarrow Z$ is a resolution of singularities whose reduced exceptional divisor $E$ has simple normal crossings, then $$\begin{eqnarray}\displaystyle R^{n-1}f_{\ast }\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FA}_{Y}(\log E)=0. & & \displaystyle \nonumber\end{eqnarray}$$ We prove this when $Z$ has isolated singularities and when it is a toric variety. We deduce that for a divisor $D$ with isolated rational singularities on a smooth complex $n$-dimensional variety $X$, the generation level of Saito’s Hodge filtration on the localization $\mathscr{O}_{X}(\ast D)$ is at most $n-3$.