bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A spatially explicit, multi‐scale occupancy model for large‐scale population monitoring
Authors: Crosby Andrew D. , Porter William F.
Published: April 2018

One of the continuing challenges in wildlife ecology and management is the ability to obtain reliable estimates of species’ distributions at large spatial extents. Multi‐scale occupancy models using a cluster sampling design offer the opportunity to increase the resolution of estimates and model processes occurring at multiple spatial scales, increasing the efficiency of large‐scale monitoring and mitigating the tradeoff between extent and grain. However, accounting for spatial correlation among subsamples in a way that allows for the addition of covariates remains an issue. Using tracking transect surveys for carnivores as an example, we describe and evaluate a hierarchical, multi‐scale occupancy model that integrates existing approaches to estimate occupancy at multiple spatial scales simultaneously, and uses a conditional autoregressive (CAR) process to account for spatial correlation in use between subsamples. We evaluated 3 versions of the model under a single‐survey and a multi‐survey sampling design: a non‐spatial model, a model that accounted for spatial correlation in use between transect segments, and a model that also accounted for spatial correlation in the detection process. Simulations showed that accounting for spatial correlation gave better estimates of transect‐level occupancy under both sampling designs, whereas accurate estimates of segment‐level use required a multi‐survey design. When applied to historical snow track data, the differences in estimates among models followed the same pattern found in the simulations. The multi‐survey design was able to detect equivalent declines in segment use with much less survey effort than the single‐survey design. The modeling framework presented here offers researchers and managers a powerful tool for monitoring populations at large spatial extents while being able to detect ecologically important dynamics at finer spatial scales. © 2018 The Wildlife Society.
Disease Modification in Parkinson's Disease: Current Approaches, Challenges, and Future Considerations
Authors: Lang Anthony E. , Espay Alberto J.
Published: April 2018

The greatest unmet therapeutic need in Parkinson's disease is the development of treatment that slows the relentless progression of the neurodegenerative process. The concept of “disease modification” encompasses intervention types ranging from those designed to slow the underlying degeneration to treatments directed at regenerating or replacing lost neurons. To date all attempts to develop effective disease‐modifying therapy have failed. Many reasons have been proposed for these failures including our rudimentary understanding of disease pathogenesis and the assumption that each targeted mechanisms of disease apply to most patients with the same clinical diagnosis. Here we review all aspects of this broad field including general concepts and past challenges followed by a discussion of treatment approaches under the following 4 categories: (1) α‐synuclein, (2) pathogenic mechanisms distinct from α‐synuclein (most also potentially triggered by α‐synuclein toxicity), (3) non‐SNCA genetic subtypes of “PD,” and (4) possible disease‐modifying interventions not directly influencing the underlying PD pathobiology. We emphasize treatments that are currently under active clinical development and highlight a wide range of important outstanding questions and concerns that will need to be considered to advance the field of disease modification in PD. Critically, it is unknown whether the dysfunctional molecular pathways/organelles amenable to modification occur in a sequential fashion across most clinically affected individuals or manifest differentially in independent molecular subtypes of PD. It is possible that there is no “order of disruption” applicable to most patients but, rather, “type of disruption” applicable to subtypes dependent on unknown factors, including genetic variability and other causes for heterogeneity in PD. Knowing when (early vs late), which (eg, synaptic transmission, endosomal sorting and maturation, lysosomal degradation, mitochondrial biogenesis), and in whom (PD subtype) specific disrupted cell pathways are truly pathogenic versus compensatory or even protective, will be important in considering the use of single or combined (“cocktails”) putative disease‐modifying therapies to selectively target these processes. Beyond the current phase 2 or 3 studies underway evaluating treatments directed at oxidative stress (inosine), cytosolic Ca2+ (isradipine), iron (deferiprone), and extracellular α‐synuclein (passive immunization), and upcoming trials of interventions affecting c‐Abl, glucagon‐like peptide‐1, and glucocerebrosidase, it might be argued that further trials in populations not enriched for the targeted pathogenic process are doomed to repeat the failures of the past. © 2018 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Studies on the local structures for the trigonal Ni3+ centers in cathode materials LiAlyCo1–yO2 (y = 0, 0.1, 0.5, and 0.8)
Authors: Ding Chang‐Chun , Wu Shao‐Yi , Xu Yong‐Qiang , Zhang Li‐Juan
Published: April 2018

The local angular distortions Δθ are theoretically studied for the various Ni3+ centers in LiAlyCo1–yO2 at different Al concentrations (y = 0, 0.1, 0.5, and 0.8) based on the perturbation calculations of electron paramagnetic resonance g factors for a trigonally distorted octahedral 3d7 cluster with low spin (S = 1/2). Due to the Jahn–Teller effect, the [NiO6]9– clusters are found to experience the local angular distortions (Δθ ≈ 5°–9°) along the C3 axis. The variation trend of Δθ with y is in accordance with that of anisotropy (Δg = g|| − g⊥). As the substitutions can weaken bond strengths between transition metal and oxygen and the structural stability plays an important role in cathode performances, detailed investigations on the structural properties of the cathode materials LiAlyCo1–yO2 can be practically helpful to understand the performances of these materials. The oxy‐redox properties of LiAlyCo1–yO2 systems are comprehensible in the framework of Ni3+/Ni4+ couples, and the trigonally compressed octahedral [NiO6]9– clusters are applicable to the clarification of the electrochemical properties of lithium nickel oxide batteries. It appears that LiAl0.8Co0.2O2 with the largest Al concentration may correspond to the smallest distortion among the mixing systems.
Experimental butchery study investigating the influence of timing of access and butcher expertise on cut mark variables
Authors: Pobiner Briana L. , Higson Charles P. , Kovarovic Kris , Kaplan Robert S. , Rogers Jacklyn , Schindler William
Published: April 2018

Cut marks on fossils from Plio‐Pleistocene faunal assemblages can elucidate the timing and nature of hominin procurement of animal tissues. Although butchery experiments have great potential to enhance our ability to understand hominin butchery behaviours, studies that model variation in the timing of access to carcasses and butcher expertise have either yielded conflicting results or have not yet been undertaken. We conducted butchery experiments on 8 pig limbs with replicated Oldowan flake tools that varied the amount of flesh removed prior to butchery (simulating early or late carcass access) and butcher expertise. These experiments investigated the effects of these variables on resultant cut mark count, length, and number of tool strokes. The relationship between the number of tool strokes as a measure of butchery intensity and the number of cut marks produced was also explored. We also compared the length of experimental cut marks with those on 1.5‐million‐year‐old fossil bones from Koobi Fora, Kenya. Although the bones that were partially defleshed prior to butchery had a higher number and longer cut marks on average than fleshed bones, and the expert butcher created fewer and shorter cut marks than the novice butcher, none of these relationships were statistically significant. We found no relationship between the number of tool strokes and the amount of flesh removed prior to butchery or the number of cut marks produced during butchery, although the expert butcher used fewer tool strokes. Although not statistically significant, the length of cut marks created by the novice butcher is much more variable than those created by the expert butcher and the fossil cut marks, and fossil cut marks are much shorter than those created by both modern butchers. More work needs to be undertaken to identify cut mark attributes that may be influenced by behavioural or ecological variables that can be measured and manipulated during butchery experiments.
Prevalence of mental disorders and psychosocial distress in German adolescent and young adult cancer patients (AYA)
Authors: Geue Kristina , Brähler Elmar , Faller Hermann , Härter Martin , Schulz Holger , Weis Joachim , Koch Uwe , Wittchen Hans‐Ulrich , Mehnert Anja
Published: April 2018

Objective

This study provides prevalence data of mental disorders (4‐week, 1‐year, lifetime) and psychological distress in Adolescent and Young Adult (AYAs) with cancer.

Methods

We included an AYA subsample (15 to 39 year olds; diagnosed within the last 5 years) extracted from a larger sample (4.020 cancer patients) who had been recruited for an epidemiological study across all major tumor entities. Participants were assessed with a depression screener (PHQ‐9). Following that, 50% of the participants who scored below the cutoff of 9 and all patients who scored above were assessed using the Composite International Diagnostic Interview for Oncology (CIDI‐O). Patients also completed an anxiety screener (GAD‐7).

Results

A total of 302 AYA (167 completed CIDI‐O) were identified. With regard to psychological distress, 29.5% of the AYA had increased depression symptoms (PHQ‐9), and 20.8% had increased anxiety symptoms (GAD‐7). Gender and age were associated with psychological distress, with women and older AYA being found to have higher distress. The 4‐week prevalence of mental disorders of any kind was 46.7% (95%‐CI:39%‐55%). Anxiety (24.4%; 95%‐CI:20%‐36%) and adjustment disorders (14.1%; 95%‐CI:9%‐19%) had the highest prevalence rates. The lowest prevalence rates were reported for alcohol dependence (0.8%; 95%‐CI:0%‐2%) and somatoform disorders (3.7%; 95%‐CI:1%‐7%). The 1‐year‐prevalence was 55.4% (CI:47.36‐62.64), and the lifetime‐prevalence was 69.5% (CI: 62.29‐77.06).

Conclusion

Our findings may sensitize clinicians to the possible presence of mental disorders in AYA. The results indicate that there is a strong need for psycho‐oncological interventions designed to improve mental health in AYAs with cancer at all stages of medical care.
Maternal perceptions of BRCA genetic counseling communication processes about disclosing cancer risk information to children and adult relatives
Authors: Hamilton Jada G. , Peshkin Beth N. , Mays Darren , DeMarco Tiffani A. , Patenaude Andrea Farkas , Tercyak Kenneth P.
Published: April 2018

Objectives

Using a novel measure, examine maternal perceptions of the process by which issues pertaining to family communication of BRCA test results are addressed during cancer genetic counseling.

Methods

After receiving BRCA results, mothers (N = 211) of minor‐age children reported on their counseling experiences with providers using a communication process measure as well as other psychosocial variables.

Results

The novel Genetic Counseling Communication Process measure demonstrated good internal consistency of its 2 factors: patient‐led communication (Cronbach's α = 0.73) and provider‐led communication (Cronbach's α = 0.82). Participants most often reported that discussions about family communication of BRCA test results to children and adult relatives were led only by their providers (38.2%‐39.2%), as opposed to being led by the patient, both parties, or neither party. Providers were most likely to lead these discussions when mothers had stronger family histories of cancer and expressed more confidence about making a decision to talk to their children about BRCA. However, mothers typically led such discussions if they were raising older children and held more positive attitudes about pediatric BRCA testing.

Conclusions

When the assessment of BRCA genetic counseling outcomes includes family communication to potentially at‐risk relatives, we learned that most but not all sessions addressed this topic. Cancer family history, child age, and maternal attitudes are important co‐factors in these patient‐provider communication exchanges. Providers delivering BRCA genetic counseling should be attentive to mothers' information and support needs regarding communicating cancer genetic test results to at‐risk relatives, including children.
Investigating the dynamics and polyanion binding sites of fibroblast growth factor‐1 using hydrogen‐deuterium exchange mass spectrometry
Authors: Angalakurthi Siva K. , Tenorio Connie A. , Blaber Michael , Middaugh Charles Russell
Published: April 2018

In this study, we examined the local dynamics of acidic fibroblast growth factor (FGF‐1) as well as the binding sites of various polyanions including poly‐sulfates (heparin and low MW heparin) and poly‐phosphates (phytic acid and ATP) using hydrogen‐deuterium exchange mass spectrometry (HX‐MS). For local dynamics, results are analyzed at the peptide level as well as in terms of buried amides employing crystallographic B‐factors and compared with a residue level heat map generated from HX‐MS results. Results show that strand 4 and 5 and the turn between them to be the most flexible regions as was previously seen by NMR. On the other hand, the C‐terminal strands 8, 9, and 10 appear to be more rigid which is also consistent with crystallographic B‐factors as well as local dynamics studies conducted by NMR. Crystal structures of FGF‐1 in complex with heparin have shown that heparin binds to N‐terminal Asn18 and to C‐terminal Lys105, Tryp107, Lys112, Lys113, Arg119, Pro121, Arg122, Gln127, and Lys128 indicating electrostatic forces as dominant interactions. Heparin binding as determined by HX‐MS is consistent with crystallography data. Previous studies have also shown that other polyanions including low MW heparin, phytic acid and ATP dramatically increase the thermal stability of FGF‐1. Using HX‐MS, we find other poly anions tested bind in a similar manner to heparin, primarily targeting the turns in the lysine rich C‐terminal region of FGF‐1 along with two distinct N‐terminal regions that contains lysines and arginines/histidines. This confirms the interactions between FGF‐1 and polyanions are primary directed by electrostatics.
Airfoil optimization for wind turbine application
Authors: Hansen T. H.
Published: April 2018

An airfoil optimization method for wind turbine applications that controls the loss in performance due to leading edge contamination is developed and tested. The method uses the class‐shape‐transformation technique to parametrize the airfoil geometry and uses an adjusted version of the panel code XFOIL to calculate the aerodynamic performance. To find optimal airfoil shapes, the derivative‐free Covariance Matrix Adaptation Evolution Strategy is used in combination with an adaptive penalty function. The method is tested for the design of airfoils for the outer part of a megawatt‐class wind turbine rotor blade, and the results are compared with airfoils from Delft University. It is found that the method is able to automatically create airfoils with equal or improved performance compared with the Delft designs. For the tested application, the adjustments performed to the XFOIL code improve the maximum lift, post stall, and the overall drag predictions.
Modulus D-term inflation
Authors: Kadota Kenji , Kobayashi Tatsuo , Saga Ikumi , Sumita Keigo
Published: April 2018

Abstract

We propose a new model of single-field D-term inflation in supergravity, where the inflation is driven by a single modulus field which transforms non-linearly under the U(1) gauge symmetry. One of the notable features of our modulus D-term inflation scenario is that the global U(1) remains unbroken in the vacuum and hence our model is not plagued by the cosmic string problem which can exclude most of the conventional D-term inflation models proposed so far due to the CMB observations.
Structure of rapidity divergences in multi-parton scattering soft factors
Authors: Vladimirov Alexey
Published: April 2018

Abstract

We discuss the structure of rapidity divergences that are presented in the soft factors of transverse momentum dependent (TMD) factorization theorems. To provide the discussion on the most general level we consider soft factors for multi-parton scattering. We show that the rapidity divergences are result of the gluon exchanges with the distant transverse plane, and are structurally equivalent to the ultraviolet divergences. It allows to formulate and to prove the renormalization theorem for rapidity divergences. The proof is made with the help the conformal transformation which maps rapidity divergences to ultraviolet divergences. The theorem is the systematic form of the factorization of rapidity divergences, which is required for the definition of TMD parton distributions. In particular, the definition of multi parton distributions is presented. The equivalence of ultraviolet and rapidity divergences leads to the exact relation between soft and rapidity anomalous dimensions. Using this relation we derive the rapidity anomalous dimension at the three-loop order.
The exceptional sigma model
Authors: Arvanitakis Alex S. , Blair Chris D. A.
Published: April 2018

Abstract

We detail the construction of the exceptional sigma model, which describes a string propagating in the “extended spacetime” of exceptional field theory. This is to U-duality as the doubled sigma model is to T-duality. Symmetry specifies the Weylinvariant Lagrangian uniquely and we show how it reduces to the correct 10-dimensional string Lagrangians. We also consider the inclusion of a Fradkin-Tseytlin (or generalised dilaton) coupling as well as a reformulation with dynamical tension.
Dispersion of group velocities of Rayleigh and Love waves and anisotropic properties of the Asian continent
Authors: Seredkina A.I. , Kozhevnikov V.M. , Solovei O.A.
Published: April 2018

We have studied the structures of the Earth’s crust and upper mantle of the Asian continent using a representative sample of dispersion curves of group velocities of fundamental-mode Rayleigh and Love waves for more than 3200 seismic paths. Maps of distributions of variations in group velocities with periods of 10 to 250 s over a spherical surface were calculated by the 2D tomography method. The maps reflect the deep structure of the Earth’s crust and upper mantle of the study area and give a tentative idea of the horizontal distribution of the anisotropic properties of the mantle matter. The obtained data are confirmed by the calculations of the velocity profiles of SV- and SH-waves for the entire Asian continent and for its regions. Vertically, anisotropy is observed to the depths of ~250 km, with its maximum in the depth range from the bottom of the crust to 150 km.
Thermodynamic model of formation of carbonates and uranium mineral phases in lakes Namshi-Nur and Tsagan-Tyrm (Cisbaikalia)
Authors: Strakhovenko V.D. , Gas’kova O.L.
Published: April 2018

The Tazheran lakes are located compactly in the small Tazheran steppe area. Their bottom sediments are predominantly various calcite–dolomite carbonates, and their waters are rich in uranium. The studies have shown that the main process in these lakes is chemogenic carbonate precipitation with the participation of carbon dioxide formed through the bacterial destruction of organic matter. For thermodynamic modeling of the composition of bottom sediments, we chose two lakes with different basic parameters. Calculations were made for the 15-component heterogeneous system H2O–Na–Ca–Mg–K–Sr–Ba–Si–Al–Cl–C–S–Fe–U–Mn including particles in the solution, minerals, and gases at 25 °C and 1 bar. As starting information, we used the obtained analytical data on the natural composition of waters and bottom sediments. The results show that calcite–dolomite carbonates are predominant in the bottom sediments and the destruction of organic matter results in reducing conditions. This confirms the hypothesis of the formation of mineral phases of U(IV) during diagenetic processes in the bottom sediments of the studied lakes.
Structure of the basement surface and sediments in the Kochkor basin (Tien Shan): geological and geophysical evidence
Authors: Przhiyalgovskii E.S. , Lavrushina E.V. , Batalev V.Yu. , Bataleva E.A. , Leonov M.G. , Rybin A.K.
Published: April 2018

The basement surface and sediments of the Kochkor basin have been studied by structural geological and geophysical methods. The work included high-resolution mapping of the southern basin margin, with a focus on Cenozoic basin stratigraphy, structural unconformities, basement/sediment contacts, and latest deformation (folds, fractures, and faults). Magnetotelluric (MT) soundings provided insights into basin and basement structure, especially important in the poorly exposed eastern flank of the basin margin. The sections across the southern margin of the basin based on geological and geophysical data reveal deformation in both the basement and the sediments. Deformation in sediments shows up as folding, conformal peneplain surfaces, large faults, low-angle detachment faults, and related thrust-fold belts. Thrusting in sediments is inferred to result from cataclastic flow and mass redistribution in disintegrated basement granites. With this mechanism, the total amount of thrusting in the central part of the basin can exceed the convergence of the basin sides.
ON THE DISTRIBUTION OF THE EXCEDENTS OF FUNDS WITH ASSETS AND LIABILITIES IN PRESENCE OF SOLVENCY AND RECOVERY REQUIREMENTS
Authors: Avanzi Benjamin , Henriksen Lars Frederik Brandt , Wong Bernard
Published: April 2018

We consider a profitable, risky setting with two separate, correlated asset and liability processes (first introduced by Gerber and Shiu, 2003). The company that is considered is allowed to distribute excess profits (traditionally referred to as dividends in the literature), but is regulated and is subject to particular regulatory (solvency) constraints. Because of the bivariate nature of the surplus formulation, such distributions of excess profits can take two alternative forms. These can originate from a reduction of assets (and hence a payment to owners), but also from an increase of liabilities (when these represent the wealth of owners, such as in pension funds). The latter is particularly relevant if distributions of assets do not make sense because of the context, such as in regulated pension funds where assets are locked until retirement. In this paper, we extend the model of Gerber and Shiu (2003) and consider recovery requirements for the distribution of excess funds. Such recovery requirements are an extension of the plain vanilla solvency constraints considered in Paulsen (2003), and require funds to reach a higher level of funding than the solvency level (if and after it is triggered) before excess funds can be distributed again. We obtain closed-form expressions for the expected present value of distributions (asset decrements or liability increments) when a distribution barrier is used.
Vertical-axis wind turbine experiments at full dynamic similarity
Authors: Miller Mark A. , Duvvuri Subrahmanyam , Brownstein Ian , Lee Marcus , Dabiri John O. , Hultmark Marcus
Published: April 2018

Laboratory experiments were performed on a geometrically scaled vertical-axis wind turbine model over an unprecedented range of Reynolds numbers, including and exceeding those of the full-scale turbine. The study was performed in the high-pressure environment of the Princeton High Reynolds number Test Facility (HRTF). Utilizing highly compressed air as the working fluid enabled extremely high Reynolds numbers while still maintaining dynamic similarity by matching the tip speed ratio (defined as the ratio of tip velocity to free stream, $\unicode[STIX]{x1D706}=\unicode[STIX]{x1D714}R/U$) and Mach number (defined at the turbine tip, $Ma=\unicode[STIX]{x1D714}R/a$). Preliminary comparisons are made with measurements from the full-scale field turbine. Peak power for both the field data and experiments resides around $\unicode[STIX]{x1D706}=1$. In addition, a systematic investigation of trends with Reynolds number was performed in the laboratory, which revealed details about the asymptotic behaviour. It was shown that the parameter that characterizes invariance in the power coefficient was the Reynolds number based on blade chord conditions ($Re_{c}$). The power coefficient reaches its asymptotic value when $Re_{c}>1.5\times 10^{6}$, which is higher than what the field turbine experiences. The asymptotic power curve is found, which is invariant to further increases in Reynolds number.
Transonic flow over localised heating elements in boundary layers
Authors: Aljohani A. F. , Gajjar J. S. B.
Published: April 2018

The problem of transonic flow past an array of micro-electro-mechanical-type (MEMS-type) heating elements placed on a flat surface is investigated using the triple-deck theory. The compressible Navier–Stokes equations supplemented by the energy equation are considered for large Reynolds numbers. The triple-deck problem is formulated with the aid of the method of matched expansions. The resulting nonlinear viscous lower deck problem, coupled with the upper deck problem governed by the nonlinear Kármán–Guderley equation, is solved using a numerical method based on Chebyshev collocation and finite differences. Our results show the differences in subsonic and supersonic flow behaviour over heated elements. The results indicate the possibility of using the elements to favourably control the transonic flow field.
Large-sample neutron activation analysis in mass balance and nutritional studies
Authors: Van de Wiel Albert , Blaauw Menno
Published: April 2018

Low concentrations of elements in food can be measured with various techniques, mostly in small samples (mg). These techniques provide only reliable data when the element is distributed homogeneously in the material to be analysed either naturally or after a homogenisation procedure. When this is not the case or homogenisation fails, a technique should be applied that is able to measure in samples up to grams and even kilograms and regardless of the distribution of the element. An adaptation of neutron activation analysis (NAA), called large-sample NAA, has been developed and proven accurate and may be an attractive alternative in food research and mass balance studies. Like standard NAA, large-sample NAA can be used to measure both toxic and trace elements relevant for nutrition.
The presence of children in households was associated with dietary intake among Japanese married women: the POTATO study
Authors: Saito Aki , Matsumoto Mai , Hyakutake Aiko , Saito Masafumi , Okamoto Naoko
Published: April 2018

A growing body of evidence from Western countries shows that the presence of children in households is associated with the dietary intake of adults, but little is known about this relationship in non-Western countries with different food cultures. Our aim was to examine whether dietary intake was different with respect to the presence of young children in the home among Japanese married women. Subjects were Japanese married women (aged 23–44 years) living with children aged less than 5 years (n73) and married women who did not have children (n85). Data regarding habitual dietary intake were obtained using a validated, self-administered diet history questionnaire. A cross-sectional comparison between women with young children and women without children was conducted using ANCOVA adjusted for potential confounding factors. Women with young children had a significantly greater intake of protein, carbohydrates, Na, Zn and Cu than did women without children. Intake of cereals, pulses and sugar was significantly higher among mothers than among non-mothers. Intake of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages was significantly higher among non-mothers than among mothers. Thus, the presence of young children at home might influence women's intake of macronutrients and some minerals, especially Na, and beverages among Japanese married women. Our findings suggest that effective dietary interventions among Japanese mothers with young children may differ from those of married women without children.
Directly dating postglacial Greenlandic land-surface emergence at high resolution using in situ10Be
Authors: Bierman Paul R. , Rood Dylan H. , Shakun Jeremy D. , Portenga Eric W. , Corbett Lee B.
Published: April 2018

Postglacial emergence curves are used to infer mantle rheology, delimit ice extent, and test models of the solid Earth response to changing ice and water loads. Such curves are rarely produced by direct dating of land emergence; rather, most rely on the presence of radiocarbon-datable organic material and inferences made between the age of sedimentary deposits and landforms indicative of former sea level. Here, we demonstrate a new approach,10Be dating, to determine rates of postglacial land emergence in two different settings. In southern Greenland (Narsarsuaq/Igaliku), we date directly the exposure, as relative sea level fell, of gravel beaches and rocky outcrops allowing determination of rapid, post–Younger Dryas emergence. In western Greenland (Kangerlussuaq), we constrain Holocene isostatic response by dating the sequential stripping of terrace sediment driven by land-surface uplift, relative sea-level fall, and resulting fluvial incision. The technique we employ provides high temporal and elevation resolution important for quantifying rapid emergence immediately after deglaciation and less rapid uplift during the middle Holocene.10Be-constrained emergence curves can improve knowledge of relative sea-level change by dating land emergence along rocky coasts, at elevations and locations where radiocarbon-datable sediments are not present, and without the lag time needed for organic material to accumulate.
Extrinsic iron from soil contributes to Hb regeneration of anaemic rats: implications for foods contaminated with soil iron
Authors: Guja Habtamu , Baye Kaleab
Published: April 2018

Contamination of foods with extrinsic (soil) Fe is common in developing countries. However, the bioavailability of this extrinsic Fe and the extent to which it contributes to Fe nutrition remains unknown. The present study compared the bioavailability of laboratory- and field-threshed teff (Eragrostisis tef (Zucc) Trotter) to evaluate the bioavailablity of extrinsic soil Fe that resulted from the traditional threshing of the staple grain. Using sequential extraction, Fe was fractionated and its solubility was evaluated. The contribution of the additional extrinsic (soil) Fe to the Hb regeneration of Fe-depleted rats was evaluated using a rat Hb depletion–repletion assay. Weanling male Wistar rats (n24) were fed Fe-deficient diet for 21 d, and were then repleted for 14 d with diets: either laboratory-threshed teff (35 mg Fe/kg;n 8), field-threshed teff (35 mg intrinsic Fe/kg+ 120 mg soil Fe/kg;n 8), or FeSO4(control;n8). Fe content of field-threshed teff (29·4 mg/100 g) was four times greater than that of the laboratory-threshed (6·7 mg/100 g) teff (P<0·05). Soil contamination significantly increased the exchangeable, acid-soluble and reducible fractions obtained after sequential extraction. The relative biological value of the field-threshed teff (88 %) was higher than that of the laboratory-threshed (68 %) teff (P<0·05). Soil Fe can contribute to Hb regeneration in Fe-deficient rats. Considering that contamination of foods with soil is common in Ethiopia and other developing countries, it needs to be accounted for in the design and implementation of fortification programmes to prevent excessive intakes. Human studies are needed to confirm the present findings.
Vitamin C intake in relation to bone mineral density and risk of hip fracture and osteoporosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies
Authors: Malmir Hanieh , Shab-Bidar Sakineh , Djafarian Kurosh
Published: April 2018

We aimed to systematically review available data on the association between vitamin C intake and bone mineral density (BMD), as well as risk of fractures and osteoporosis, and to summarise this information through a meta-analysis. Previous studies on vitamin C intake in relation to BMD and risk of fracture and osteoporosis were selected through searching PubMed, Scopus, ISI Web of Science and Google Scholar databases before February 2017, using MeSH and text words. To pool data, either a fixed-effects model or a random-effects model was used, and for assessing heterogeneity, Cochran’s Q and I2 tests were used. Subgroup analysis was applied to define possible sources of heterogeneity. Greater dietary vitamin C intake was positively associated with BMD at femoral neck (pooled r 0·18; 0·06, 0·30) and lumbar spine (pooled r 0·14; 95 % CI 0·06, 0·22); however, significant between-study heterogeneity was found at femoral neck: I2=87·6 %, Pheterogeneity<0·001. In addition, we found a non-significant association between dietary vitamin C intake and the risk of hip fracture (overall relative risk=0·74; 95 % CI 0·51, 1·08). Significant between-study heterogeneity was found (I2=79·1 %, Pheterogeneity<0·001), and subgroup analysis indicated that study design, sex and age were the main sources of heterogeneity. Greater dietary vitamin C intake was associated with a 33 % lower risk of osteoporosis (overall relative risk=0·67; 95 % CI 0·47, 0·94). Greater dietary vitamin C intake was associated with a lower risk of hip fracture and osteoporosis, as well as higher BMD, at femoral neck and lumbar spine.
A carbohydrate-reduced high-protein diet acutely decreases postprandial and diurnal glucose excursions in type 2 diabetes patients
Authors: Samkani Amirsalar , Skytte Mads J. , Kandel Daniel , Kjaer Stine , Astrup Arne , Deacon Carolyn F. , Holst Jens J. , Madsbad Sten , Rehfeld Jens F. , Haugaard Steen B. , Krarup Thure
Published: April 2018

The aim of the study was to assess whether a simple substitution of carbohydrate in the conventionally recommended diet with protein and fat would result in a clinically meaningful reduction in postprandial hyperglycaemia in subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). In all, sixteen subjects with T2DM treated with metformin only, fourteen male, with a median age of 65 (43–70) years, HbA1cof 6·5 % (47 mmol/l) (5·5–8·3 % (37–67 mmol/l)) and a BMI of 30 (sd4·4) kg/m2participated in the randomised, cross-over study. A carbohydrate-reduced high-protein (CRHP) diet was compared with an iso-energetic conventional diabetes (CD) diet. Macronutrient contents of the CRHP/CD diets consisted of 31/54 % energy from carbohydrate, 29/16 % energy from protein and 40/30 % energy from fat, respectively. Each diet was consumed on 2 consecutive days in a randomised order. Postprandial glycaemia, pancreatic and gut hormones, as well as satiety, were evaluated at breakfast and lunch. Compared with the CD diet, the CRHP diet reduced postprandial AUC of glucose by 14 %, insulin by 22 % and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide by 17 % (allP<0·001), respectively. Correspondingly, glucagon AUC increased by 33 % (P<0·001), cholecystokinin by 24 % (P=0·004) and satiety scores by 7 % (P=0·035), respectively. A moderate reduction in carbohydrate with an increase in fat and protein in the diet, compared with an energy-matched CD diet, greatly reduced postprandial glucose excursions and resulted in increased satiety in patients with well-controlled T2DM.
Eating frequency is inversely associated with BMI, waist circumference and the proportion of body fat in Korean adults when diet quality is high, but not when it is low: analysis of the Fourth Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES IV)
Authors: Kim Sunmi , Yang Jeong Hee , Park Gyeong-Hun
Published: April 2018

The role of eating frequency (EF) in obesity development has been debated, and few studies have investigated Asian populations. Diet quality might affect the association between EF and obesity. Therefore, we investigated the association between EF and obesity indicators in a representative sample of Korean adults with consideration to diet quality. This cross-sectional study used data of 6951 participants aged 19–93 years (male 49·8 %, female 50·2 %) from the Fourth Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. EF was assessed using a questionnaire, and diet quality was defined as mean adequacy ratio (MAR). To explore the association between EF and obesity indicators, we used multiple linear regression analyses with and without interaction terms between diet quality and EF. EF was inversely associated with each obesity indicator, including body fat percentage (BF%), BMI and waist circumference (WC), showing a significant linear trend (P<0·001 for BF%, WC and BMI). In addition, the association between EF and each obesity indicator was significantly altered according to diet quality (Pvalue of the interaction term EF×diet quality=0·008 in the regression model for BF%, <0·001 for BMI and 0·043 for WC). In the stratified analyses according to diet quality, EF had a significant inverse association with BF%, WC and BMI in the high diet quality groups, but not in the low diet quality groups. This study suggests that EF is inversely associated with the obesity indicators when diet quality is high, but not when it is low in Korean adults.
PERENNIAL GRAINS FOR AFRICA: POSSIBILITY OR PIPEDREAM?
Authors: SNAPP SIEGLINDE , ROGÉ PAUL , OKORI PATRICK , CHIKOWO REGIS , PETER BRAD , MESSINA JOSEPH
Published: April 2018

Perennial grain crops have been proposed as a transformative approach to agriculture. Replacing annual staple crops with perennialized growth types of the same crops could provide environmental services, improve labour efficiency and weather resilience, reduce seed costs and produce livestock fodder or fuelwood production. Yet, the technologies and science for agricultural development in Africa have focused almost exclusively on annuals. In this paper, we review the literature to explore what has been potentially overlooked, including missed opportunities as well as the disadvantages associated with perennial grains. The case studies of pigeon pea and sorghum are considered, as an analogue for perennial grain crops in Africa. We find that a substantial number of farmers persist in ‘perennializing’ pigeon pea systems through ratoon management, and that sorghum ratoons are widely practiced in some regions. In contrast, many crop scientists are not interested in perennial traits or ratoon management, citing the potential of perennials to harbour disease, and modest yield potential. Indeed, an overriding prioritization of high grain yield response to fertilizer, and not including accessory products such as fodder or soil fertility, has led to multipurpose, perennial life forms being overlooked. Agronomists are encouraged to consider a wide range of indicators of performance for a sustainable approach to agriculture, one that includes management for diversity in crop growth habits.
Leishmaniasis: current challenges and prospects for elimination with special focus on the South Asian region
Authors: KARUNAWEERA NADIRA D. , FERREIRA MARCELO U.
Published: April 2018

Leishmania donovani, the most virulent species of Leishmania, is found in the South Asian region that harbours the majority of visceral leishmaniasis (VL) cases in the world. The traditionally accepted relationships between the causative species of Leishmania and the resultant disease phenotype have been challenged during recent years and have underscored the importance of revisiting the previously established taxonomy with revisions to its classification. The weak voice of the afflicted with decades of neglect by scientists and policy makers have led to the miserably inadequate and slow advancements in product development in the fields of diagnostics, chemotherapeutics and vector control that continue to hinder the effective management and control of this infection. Limitations notwithstanding, the regional drive for the elimination of VL initiated over a decade ago that focused on India, Nepal and Bangladesh, the three main afflicted countries in the Indian subcontinent is therefore, commendable, with the subsequent status reviews and restructuring of strategies possibly even more so. However, the renewed efforts would need to be combined with plans to combat new challenges in the South-Asian region that includes the emergence of atypical parasite variants, in order to realistically achieve the set goal of regional elimination of VL.
Phylogenetic heritability of geographic range size in haematophagous ectoparasites: time of divergence and variation among continents
Authors: Krasnov Boris R. , Shenbrot Georgy I. , van der Mescht Luther , Warburton Elizabeth M. , Khokhlova Irina S.
Published: April 2018

To understand existence, patterns and mechanisms behind phylogenetic heritability in the geographic range size (GRS) of parasites, we measured phylogenetic signal (PS) in the sizes of both regional (within a region) and continental (within a continent) geographic ranges of fleas in five regions. We asked whether (a) GRS is phylogenetically heritable and (b) the manifestation of PS varies between regions. We also asked whether geographic variation in PS reflects the effects of the environment's spatiotemporal stability (e.g. glaciation disrupting geographic ranges) or is associated with time since divergence (accumulation differences among species over time). Support for the former hypothesis would be indicated by stronger PS in southern than in northern regions, whereas support for the latter hypothesis would be shown by stronger PS in regions with a large proportion of species belonging to the derived lineages than in regions with a large proportion of species belonging to the basal lineages. We detected significant PS in both regional and continental GRSs of fleas from Canada and in continental GRS of fleas from Mongolia. No PS was found in the GRS of fleas from Australia and Southern Africa. Venezuelan fleas demonstrated significant PS in regional GRS only. Local Indicators of Phylogenetic Association detected significant local positive autocorrelations of GRS in some clades even in regions in which PS has not been detected across the entire phylogeny. This was mainly characteristic of younger taxa.
EXPLORING MEDICAL DEVICES: THE USE OF RISK ASSESSMENT TOOLS AND THEIR LINK WITH TRAINING IN HOSPITALS
Authors: Porte Petra J. , Verweij Lisanne M. , de Bruijne Martine C. , van der Vleuten Cees P.M. , Wagner Cordula
Published: April 2018

Objectives:The aim of this study was to explore the risk assessment tools and criteria used to assess the risk of medical devices in hospitals, and to explore the link between the risk of a medical device and how those risks impact or alter the training of staff.

Methods:Within a broader questionnaire on implementation of a national guideline, we collected quantitative data regarding the types of risk assessment tools used in hospitals and the training of healthcare staff.

Results:The response rate for the questionnaire was 81 percent; a total of sixty-five of eighty Dutch hospitals. All hospitals use a risk assessment tool and the biggest cluster (40 percent) use a tool developed internally. The criteria used to assess risk most often are: the function of the device (92 percent), the severity of adverse events (88 percent) and the frequency of use (77 percent). Forty-seven of fifty-six hospitals (84 percent) base their training on the risk associated with a medical device. For medium- and high-risk devices, the main method is practical training. As risk increases, the amount and type of training and examination increases.

Conclusions:Dutch hospitals use a wide range of tools to assess the risk of medical devices. These tools are often based on the same criteria: the function of the device, the potential severity of adverse events, and the frequency of use. Furthermore, these tools are used to determine the amount and type of training required for staff. If the risk of a device is higher, then the training and examination is more extensive.
Duality between loci of complex polynomials and the zeros of polar derivatives
Authors: SENDOV BLAGOVEST , SENDOV HRISTO
Published: April 2018

This work investigates the connections between the notion of a locus of a complex polynomial and the polar derivatives. Polar differentiation extends classical derivatives and provides additional flexibility. The notion of a locus was introduced in [8] and proved useful in providing sharp versions of several classical results in the area known as Geometry of Polynomials. The investigations culminated in the work [11]. A need was revealed for a unified treatment of bounded and unbounded loci of polynomials of degree at mostnas well as a unified treatment of polar derivatives and ordinary derivatives. This work aims at providing such a framework.
Review of periodical articles
Authors: BUYLAERT FREDERICK , VERHOEVEN GERRIT , VERLAAN TIM , VERMOESEN REINOUD
Published: April 2018

Historians are held hostage by the sources that are available to them, and for that reason, the historiography of medieval towns is dominated by research on thirteenth-, fourteenth- or fifteenth-century case-studies. In preceding centuries, literacy was largely the monopoly of ecclesiastical milieus, who were often hostile or simply not interested in describing the urban settlements which then emerged all over Europe. An interesting exception, however, is the Breton town of Redon, which took shape around an abbey that was established in 832 with support of the Carolingian Emperor Louis the Pious. By navigating the unusually extensive set of Carolingian cartularies of this abbey, as well as the available cartographic and archaeological evidence, Julien Bachelier has developed an incisive sketch of the development of a town in the shadow of the Carolingian abbey in the eleventh and twelfth centuries (‘Une ville abbatiale bretonne. Redon du IXe au XIVe siècle’, Histoire Urbaine, 48 (2017), 133–54). This case-study confirms once again that the urbanization of medieval Europe was more than a side-effect of the rebirth of long-distance trade as the canonical Pirenne thesis would have it. The Redon case provides a valuable contribution to the revisionist perspective that stresses the importance of local demand from abbeys, episcopal palaces and castles as a stimulus for urban development (see esp. the seminal work of A. Verhulst, The Rise of Cities in North-West Europe (Cambridge, 1999)).
Translation equivalents facilitate lexical access in very young bilinguals – CORRIGENDUM
Authors: POULIN-DUBOIS DIANE , KUZYK OLIVIA , LEGACY JACQUELINE , ZESIGER PASCAL , FRIEND MARGARET
Published: April 2018

In this article a reference was published incorrectly. The correct reference is as follows:-

Deanda, S., Hendrickson, K., Zesiger, P., Poulin-Dubois, D., & Friend, M. (2017). Lexical access in the second year: a study of monolingual and bilingual vocabulary development. Bilingualism: Language and Cognition, 21(2), 314–327.
Wie ungesund ist ein Ultramarathon?
Authors: Knechtle Beat , Nikolaidis Pantelis T.
Published: April 2018

Zusammenfassung. Wir stellen die wichtigsten Erkenntnisse zu Organschädigungen durch einen Ultramarathon zusammen. Nach einem Ultramarathon können kardiale Biomarker wie CK, CK-MB, kardiales Troponin I (cTnI) und N-terminales pro-Brain Natriuretic Peptide (NT-pro BNP) erhöht sein. Bis 80 % und mehr der Finisher klagen über Verdauungsprobleme, die einer der Hauptgründe sind, einen Ultramarathon nicht zu finishen. Bis zu 90 % der Läufer, die einen Ultramarathon aufgeben, klagen über Übelkeit. Nach einem Ultramarathon steigen die Leberwerte oft an, schwerwiegende Konsequenzen bleiben meist aus. Risikofaktoren für eine Einschränkung der Nierenfunktion sind eine ausgeprägte Muskelschädigung mit Rhabdomyolyse, Dehydratation, Hypotonie, Hyperurikämie, Hyponatriämie, geringe Wettkampferfahrung sowie die Einnahme von NSARs. Ultraläufer leiden nach einem Ultramarathon oft an Infekten der oberen Atemwege.