bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental Measurement of Frequency-Dependent Permeability and Streaming Potential of Sandstones
Authors: Glover P. W. J. , Peng R. , Lorinczi P. , Di B.
Published: November 2019

Hydraulic flow, electrical flow and the passage of elastic waves through porous media are all linked by electrokinetic processes. In its simplest form, the passage of elastic waves through the porous medium causes fluid to flow through that medium and that flow gives rise to an electrical streaming potential and electrical counter-current. These processes are frequency-dependent and governed by coupling coefficients which are themselves frequency-dependent. The link between fluid pressure and fluid flow is described by dynamic permeability, which is characterised by the hydraulic coupling coefficient (Chp). The link between fluid pressure and electrical streaming potential is characterised by the streaming potential coefficient (Csp). While the steady-state values of such coefficients are well studied and understood, their frequency dependence is not. Previous work has been confined to unconsolidated and disaggregated materials such as sands, gravels and soils. In this work, we present an apparatus for measuring the hydraulic and streaming potential coefficients of high porosity, high permeability consolidated porous media as a function of frequency. The apparatus operates in the range 1 Hz to 2 kHz with a sample of 10 mm diameter and 5–30 mm in length. The full design and validation of the apparatus are described together with the experimental protocol it uses. Initial data are presented for three samples of Boise sandstone, which present as dispersive media with the critical transition frequency of 918.3 ± 99.4 Hz. The in-phase and in-quadrature components of the measured hydraulic and streaming potential coefficients have been compared to the Debye-type dispersion model as well as theoretical models based on bundles of capillary tubes and porous media. Initial results indicate that the dynamic permeability data present an extremely good fit to the capillary bundle and Debye-type dispersion models, while the streaming potential coefficient presents an extremely good fit to all of the models up to the critical transition frequency, but diverges at higher frequencies. The streaming potential coefficient data are best fitted by the Pride model and its Walker and Glover simplification. Characteristic pore size values calculated from the measured critical transition frequency fell within 1.73% of independent measures of this parameter, while the values calculated directly from the Packard model showed an underestimation by about 12%.
Functional Regions for Policy: a Statistical ‘Toolbox’ Providing Evidence for Decisions between Alternative Geographies
Authors: Martínez-Bernabeu Lucas , Coombes Mike , Casado-Díaz José Manuel
Published: November 2019

Labour market areas and other functional regions (FRs) are increasingly used within research and policy, but how FRs are best defined is an unresolved issue. This is important because the policy impacts, or the research results, will differ depending on the specific FR boundaries used. As a result of this sensitivity (termed the Modifiable Areal Unit Problem), quantitative metrics are needed so that differing sets of FR boundaries can be evaluated. To meet this need the paper firstly reviews the concept and use of labour market areas – the form of FRs most widely used in policy – to identify relevant criteria for evaluating any regionalisation comprising a set of FRs. Next a range of potential measurable indicators for each of the criteria is defined. These candidate indicators are then exemplified by applying them to a huge number of alternative sets of FRs. From this empirical evidence a short-list of preferred indicators is identified, creating a statistical ‘toolbox’ for evaluating sets of FRs. The paper ends by first sketching possible processes within which applying the indicators can help policy-makers with a decision over the appropriate set of FRs for a specific policy, before finally outlining some potential future research developments.
Situation, challenges, and SEOM recommendations for the future of undergraduate education in Oncology in Spain
Authors: Segui M. A. , Cruz J. J. , Alba E. , Feliu J. , Jara C. , Rivera F. , Rodriguez Lescure A. , Lorenzo A. , Martin M.
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The Spanish Society of Medical Oncology (SEOM, for its Spanish acronym) would like to attest to the relevance of training in Oncology as part of the undergraduate education in Medicine program and issue recommendations to improve said training, with the aim of responding better to the challenges that cancer poses to our society.

Materials and methods

The curricula of 42 schools of medicine were reviewed with interviews with at least one teaching medical oncologist from each faculty. The qualitative and opinion analysis was completed by means of an online questionnaire targeting lecturers, resident tutors, and residents in Medical Oncology (MO), enabling the detection of needs and areas for improvement at an organizational level and in terms of skill acquisition.

Results

While the number of medical schools with a specific, mandatory program in MO has grown by up to 90%, it has not been accompanied by an increase in independent programs. Instead, they largely consist of programs shared with other specialties (61% of the medical faculties). In most of the undergraduate education programs, Oncology contents are fragmented and approached from the perspective of each organ system.

Conclusions

Despite the positive evolution in recent years, the heterogeneity in Oncology contents during undergraduate education training continues to be remarkable. Cross-sectional programs with an integral vision, taught in the final years of undergraduate medical education would be desirable. Among the recommendations for improvement of training in Medical Oncology, the SEOM proposes that updated, theoretical content be incorporated and clinical practice in Medical Oncology departments be promoted.
Religious Attendance and Social Support: Integration or Selection?
Authors: Bradley Christopher S. , Hill Terrence D. , Burdette Amy M. , Mossakowski Krysia N. , Johnson Robert J.
Published: November 2019

Although numerous studies have shown that religious attendance is associated with greater social support, concerns remain about selection into religious attendance and more supportive relationships. In this paper, we employ data collected from the 2011 Miami-Dade Health Survey (n = 444) to assess the extent to which the association between religious attendance and social support is due to selection processes related to personality, health behavior, and health status. In our multinomial logistic regression of attendance, we find that the odds of weekly attendance are increased by extraversion and reduced by smoking. We also observe that religious attendance does not vary according to level of agreeableness, self-esteem, alcohol consumption, psychological distress, or physical health. In our regression of support, we find that respondents who attend religious services weekly or more tend to report more social support than respondents who never attend. This association persisted with adjustments for age, gender, race, immigrant status, interview language, education, employment status, household income, financial strain, marital status (parent and respondent), the presence of children, family difficulties, personality (agreeableness, extroversion, and self-esteem), health behavior (smoking, binge drinking, and substance use), and health status (psychological distress, activity limitations, and overall physical health). Across models, the association between weekly attendance and social support is attenuated by no more than 7%. This attenuation is due to personality (extraversion), not health behavior or health status. We conclude that the association between religious attendance and social support is primarily driven by integration processes rather than any selection processes we have considered.
Optimal structure of groups under exposure to fake news
Authors: Berekméri Evelin , Derényi Imre , Zafeiris Anna
Published: November 2019

Humans predominantly form their beliefs based on communication with other humans rather than direct observations, even on matters of facts, such as the shape of the globe or the effects of child vaccinations. Despite the fact that this is a well-known (not to say: trivial) observation, literature on opinion dynamics and opinion formation largely overlooks this circumstance. In the present paper we study the effects of limited access to information on the level of knowledge of members of groups embedded into an environment that can be observed. We also study the consequences of false information circulating within the group. We find that exposure to fake news makes intense communication counterproductive, but, at the same time, calls forth diversification of agents with respect to their information spreading abilities.
Facilitators and barriers to the training and maintenance of young persons’ advisory groups (YPAGs)
Authors: Tsang V.W.L. , Chew S.Y. , Junker A.K.
Published: November 2019

Introduction:

Increasing demands from public and private healthcare coupled with national initiatives in patient-oriented research has led to an increase in avenues to allow patients to be directly involved in research. In particular, the push towards participation of children and youth has resulted in the formation of pediatric patient advisory groups with broad partnerships and consultation requests across the globe. However, there is a lack of evidence to examine the challenges in formation and training of young persons’ advisory groups (YPAGs) and management processes required thereafter.

Purpose and objectives:

This study’s purpose is to document YPAG formation and training protocols around the world, highlight common strengths, and evaluate pitfalls and challenges. The results from this study will subsequently inform the development of standardized training protocols for children and youth to be piloted globally.

Methods:

In this study, 17 select YPAG team leaders from 7 countries were surveyed to determine current training techniques used within existing groups. 17 youth representatives and 16 team leaders were then interviewed to gather further qualitative data on facilitators and barriers that aid or prevent successful initiation and maintenance of these groups. Qualitative interview data was coded and analyzed using NVivo by two independent reviewers (SYC, VWLT). Any inconsistencies in thematic analysis was confirmed by a third reviewer (JB).

Results:

The most common training topics include consent and assent (64.71%), clinical trials (64.71%), and patient safety (70.59%). There are significant discrepancies to the amount of training received by each team. Most YPAGs out of the 17 groups receive no formal training (58.82%) while training sessions in the remaining 7 groups vary in both duration and frequency. Collectively, meetings ranged from 15 minutes to 6 hours long, with the majority of team meetings being 2–3 hours long (58.82%). The most common training facilitators are a positive relationship with a local hospital (82.35%) and access to a dedicated team coordinator (64.71%). 70.59% of team leaders identified a lack of access to appropriate educational materials available as a drawback to the impact of their YPAG, making this the greatest common barrier.

Conclusion:

Bringing children and youth to the forefront of paediatric trials and clinical research facilitates appropriate patient representation in subsequent research decision-making. There is an urgency to create and implement standardized protocols for the training of children and youth, especially in preparation for national and international research consultations. This low barrier framework may be of special interest to lower-middle-income countries who wish to encourage community participation in healthcare.
Henkel and Sonderhoff jointly exhibit technology for bonding and sealing filters
Authors: Atkinson Simon
Published: November 2019

Henkel AG & Co KGaA, together with Sonderhoff Group – its business that supplies polymer sealing and potting systems – used FILTECH 2019, a major exhibition that focuses on filtration and separation equipment and services, to display and demonstrate technology for bonding and sealing filters. Here we look briefly at some of the technology developed and offered by the companies which, by working together, enable products and systems used in the manufacture of filters to be obtained from a single source.
Permissible Promise-Making Under Uncertainty
Authors: LIBERMAN ALIDA
Published: November 2019

I outline four conditions on permissible promise-making: the promise must be for a morally permissible end, must not be deceptive, must be in good faith, and must involve a realistic assessment of oneself. I then address whether promises that you are uncertain you can keep can meet these four criteria, with a focus on campaign promises as an illustrative example. I argue that uncertain promises can meet the first two criteria, but that whether they can meet the second two depends on the source of the promisor's uncertainty. External uncertainty stemming from outside factors is unproblematic, but internal uncertainty stemming from the promisor's doubts about her own strength leads to promises that are in bad faith or unrealistic. I conclude that campaign promises are often subject to internal uncertainty and are therefore morally impermissible to make, all else being equal.
COVER TIME FOR THE FROG MODEL ON TREES
Authors: HOFFMAN CHRISTOPHER , JOHNSON TOBIAS , JUNGE MATTHEW
Published: November 2019

The frog model is a branching random walk on a graph in which particles branch only at unvisited sites. Consider an initial particle density of

$\unicode[STIX]{x1D707}$

on the full

$d$

-ary tree of height

$n$

. If

$\unicode[STIX]{x1D707}=\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FA}(d^{2})$

, all of the vertices are visited in time

$\unicode[STIX]{x1D6E9}(n\log n)$

with high probability. Conversely, if

$\unicode[STIX]{x1D707}=O(d)$

the cover time is

$\exp (\unicode[STIX]{x1D6E9}(\sqrt{n}))$

with high probability.
Meltwater percolation, impermeable layer formation and runoff buffering on Devon Ice Cap, Canada
Authors: Ashmore David W. , Mair Douglas W. F. , Burgess David O.
Published: November 2019

The retention of meltwater in the accumulation area of the Greenland ice sheet and other Arctic ice masses buffers their contribution to sea level change. However, sustained warming also results in impermeable ice layers or ‘ice slabs’ that seal the underlying pore space. Here, we use a 1-D, physically based, high-resolution model to simulate the surface mass balance (SMB), percolation, refreezing, ice layer formation and runoff from across the high-elevation area of Devon Ice Cap, Canada, from 2001 to 2016. We vary the thickness of the ‘impermeable’ ice layer at which underlying firn becomes inaccessible to meltwater. Thick near-surface ice layers are established by an initial deep percolation, the formation of decimetre ice layers and the infilling of interleaving pore space. The cumulative SMB increases by 48% by varying impermeable layer thickness between 0.01 and 5 m. Within this range we identify narrower range (0.25–1 m) that can simulate both the temporal variability in SMB and the observed near-surface density structure. Across this range, cumulative SMB variation is limited to 6% and 45–49% of mass retention takes place within the annually replenished snowpack. Our results indicate cooler summers after intense mid-2000s warming have led to a partial replenishment of pore space.
A single injection of vitamin D3 improves insulin sensitivity and β-cell function but not muscle damage or the inflammatory and cardiovascular responses to an acute bout of resistance exercise in vitamin D-deficient resistance-trained males
Authors: Ashtary-Larky Damoon , Kheirollah Alireza , Bagheri Reza , Ghaffari Mohammad Ali , Mard Seyyed Ali , Hashemi Seyed Jalal , Mir Iman , Wong Alexei
Published: November 2019

Vitamin D deficiency is now a recognised problem affecting multiple physiological functions. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of a single dose of vitamin D3 injection on the inflammatory, muscular damage, metabolic and cardiovascular responses to an acute bout of resistance exercise (RE) in vitamin D-deficient resistance-trained males. Blood samples from fourteen vitamin D-deficient resistance-trained males were obtained during two separate trials: lower vitamin D (LVD) and higher vitamin D (HVD, after vitamin D3 injection). Metabolic, inflammatory, muscle damage and cardiovascular markers were evaluated at baseline, immediately and 1 h after RE. There were significant trial-by-time interactions for insulin and homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) which significantly (P < 0·05) declined for 1 h after RE in the HVD trial compared with the LVD trial. Homeostasis model assessment of β-cell function (HOMA-β) declines at 1 h post-RE in the HVD trial. There was also a time effect for blood sugar which significantly (P < 0·05) decreased and for creatine kinase, lactate dehydrogenase and IL-6 which increased significantly 1 h post-RE in both trials. There were no significant changes in other inflammatory and cardiovascular markers following both trials. A single injection of vitamin D3 improved insulin resistance and β-cell function following RE in previously vitamin D-deficient resistance-trained males. Conversely, the injection did not change muscle damage and the inflammatory response to acute RE. Intramuscular vitamin D replacement may have key implications for the promotion of glucose metabolism and lowering the risk of diabetes in vitamin D-deficient individuals.
Human bioavailability of phenolic compounds found in common beans: the use of high-resolution MS to evaluate inter-individual variability
Authors: Mecha Elsa , Feliciano Rodrigo P. , Rodriguez-Mateos Ana , Silva Sandra D. , Figueira Maria Eduardo , Vaz Patto Maria Carlota , Bronze Maria Rosário
Published: November 2019

Although common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) are consumed worldwide, studies on the metabolic fate of phenolic compounds from common beans are still very scarce. The present work aimed to study the bioavailability of phenolic compounds in human plasma and urine, after acute consumption of a single meal of cooked common beans. Blood and urine of seven volunteers were collected before (0 h) and at different time points (1, 2, 4, 6 and 8 h for plasma and 0–2, 2–4, 4–6, 6–8 and 8–24 h for urine) after beans’ intake. Ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole-time of flight-MS (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS) was used for quantification. After beans’ intake, 405 (sd 3) g, containing 188 mg of phenolic compounds (expressed as gallic acid equivalents), there was a significant increase (P < 0·05) in the plasma concentration of six metabolites and in the urinary excretion of eleven metabolites. After 1 h post-consumption, metabolites, such as kaempferol-3-O-glucuronide, showed a significant increase in plasma concentration, suggesting kaempferol’s glucuronidation in the upper gastrointestinal tract. More than 50 % of the total amount of metabolites, such as 4-methylcatechol-O-sulphate and dihydrocaffeic acid-3-O-sulphate, were excreted after 8 h post-consumption, indicating colonic bacterial metabolism of the phenolic compounds. Partial least square-discriminant analysis models clearly showed clusters of metabolites, which contributed to extend the list of compounds related to cooked common beans’ human intake at different time points and showed the human inter-individual variability in plasma concentration as well as in urinary excreted metabolites, after cooked common beans’ intake.
Does maternal smoking in pregnancy explain the differences in the body composition trajectory between breastfed and formula-fed infants?
Authors: Zhou Shao J. , Hawke Karen , Collins Carmel T. , Gibson Robert A. , Makrides Maria
Published: November 2019

Growth patterns are known to differ between breastfed and formula-fed infants, but little is known about the relative impact of maternal smoking in pregnancy v. feeding mode on growth trajectory in infancy. We conducted a secondary analysis of a trial, the Tolerance of Infant Goat Milk Formula and Growth Assessment trial involving 290 healthy infants, to examine whether smoking in pregnancy modified the association between feeding mode and body composition of infants. Fat mass (FM) and fat-free mass (FFM) were estimated at 1, 2, 3, 4, 6 and 12 months of age using bioimpedance spectroscopy. Formula-fed infants (n 190) had a higher mean FFM at 4 months (mean difference (MD) 160 g, 95 % CI 50·4, 269·5 g, P < 0·05)) and 6 months (MD 179 g, 95 % CI 41·5, 316·9 g, P < 0·05) compared with the breastfed infants (n 100). Sub-group analysis of breastfed v. formula-fed infants by maternal smoking status in pregnancy showed that there were no differences in the FM and FFM between the breastfed and formula-fed infants whose mothers did not smoke in pregnancy. Formula-fed infants whose mothers smoked in pregnancy were smaller at birth and had a lower FM% and higher FFM% at 1 month compared with infants of non-smoking mothers regardless of feeding mode, but the differences were not significant at other time points. Adequately powered prospective studies with an appropriate design are warranted to better understand the relative impact of maternal smoking, feeding practice and the growth trajectory of infants.
Family, Gender, and Labour in the Greek Mines, 1860–1940
Authors: Papastefanaki Leda
Published: November 2019

To date, research on work in the mines in Greece has ignored the significance of gender in the workplace, since mining is associated exclusively with male labour. As such, it is considered, indirectly, not subject to gender relations. The article examines the influence of family and gender relations on labour in the Greek mines in the period 1860–1940 by highlighting migration trajectories, paternalistic practices, and the division of labour in mining communities.

Sources include: official publications of the Mines Inspectorate and the Mines and Industrial Censuses, the Greek Miners’ Fund Archive, British and French consular reports, various economic and technical reports by experts, literature and narratives, the local press from mining regions, and the Archive of the Seriphos Mines.
The Figure of the Gypsy (Cigano) as a Signpost for Crises of the Social Hierarchy (Bahia, 1590s–1900s)
Authors: Fotta Martin
Published: November 2019

Gypsies (Ciganosin Portuguese) have been present in Brazil since the earliest days of Portuguese colonization. Part of the (free) masses (o povo, “the people”), they were known primarily as itinerant traders of trinkets, slaves, and animals, and were one category of intermediaries who made the internal economy function. Authorities viewed their lifestyle and activities with suspicion. Focusing on the state of Bahia, in the north-eastern region of Brazil, between the late sixteenth and late nineteenth centuries, this article shows that the tenuous position of Gypsies was amenable to transformations reflecting political priorities and ideas about the proper social order. The continued difference ofCiganosand their independent way of making a living were at times problematized by elites, embodying wider tensions between the authorities and the people. The case of BahianCiganosis revelatory within Romani-related historiography in that it foregrounds connected developments within locales enmeshed in a metropole–periphery relationship, continuities between imperial and nation-building projects, and the centrality of race on which they were built.
Dependence on ion temperature of shallow-angle magnetic presheaths with adiabatic electrons
Authors: Geraldini Alessandro , Parra F. I. , Militello F.
Published: November 2019

The magnetic presheath is a boundary layer occurring when magnetized plasma is in contact with a wall and the angle

$\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FC}$

between the wall and the magnetic field

$\boldsymbol{B}$

is oblique. Here, we consider the fusion-relevant case of a shallow-angle,

$\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FC}\ll 1$

, electron-repelling sheath, with the electron density given by a Boltzmann distribution, valid for

$\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FC}/\sqrt{\unicode[STIX]{x1D70F}+1}\gg \sqrt{m_{\text{e}}/m_{\text{i}}}$

, where

$m_{\text{e}}$

is the electron mass,

$m_{\text{i}}$

is the ion mass,

$\unicode[STIX]{x1D70F}=T_{\text{i}}/ZT_{\text{e}}$

,

$T_{\text{e}}$

is the electron temperature,

$T_{\text{i}}$

is the ion temperature and

$Z$

is the ionic charge state. The thickness of the magnetic presheath is of the order of a few ion sound Larmor radii

$\unicode[STIX]{x1D70C}_{\text{s}}=\sqrt{m_{\text{i}}(ZT_{\text{e}}+T_{\text{i}})}/ZeB$

, where e is the proton charge and

$B=|\boldsymbol{B}|$

is the magnitude of the magnetic field. We study the dependence on

$\unicode[STIX]{x1D70F}$

of the electrostatic potential and ion distribution function in the magnetic presheath by using a set of prescribed ion distribution functions at the magnetic presheath entrance, parameterized by

$\unicode[STIX]{x1D70F}$

. The kinetic model is shown to be asymptotically equivalent to Chodura’s fluid model at small ion temperature,

$\unicode[STIX]{x1D70F}\ll 1$

, for

$|\text{ln}\,\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FC}|>3|\text{ln}\,\unicode[STIX]{x1D70F}|\gg 1$

. In this limit, despite the fact that fluid equations give a reasonable approximation to the potential, ion gyro-orbits acquire a spatial extent that occupies a large portion of the magnetic presheath. At large ion temperature,

$\unicode[STIX]{x1D70F}\gg 1$

, relevant because

$T_{\text{i}}$

is measured to be a few times larger than

$T_{\text{e}}$

near divertor targets of fusion devices, ions reach the Debye sheath entrance (and subsequently the wall) at a shallow angle whose size is given by

$\sqrt{\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FC}}$

or

$1/\sqrt{\unicode[STIX]{x1D70F}}$

, depending on which is largest.
Spatiotemporal pattern analysis of schistosomiasis based on village level in the transmission control stage in lake and marshland areas in China
Authors: Chen Yanyan , Liu Jianbing , Xiao Ying , Zhong Chenhui , Wei Fenghua , Liu Si
Published: November 2019

Hubei Province is one of the endemic regions with severe schistosomiasis in China. To eliminate schistosomiasis in lake and marshland regions, this study detected hotspots of schistosomiasis cases both spatially and spatiotemporally on the basis of spatial autocorrelation; clustering and outlier, purely spatial and spatiotemporal cluster analyses at the village level from 2013 to 2017 in Hubei Province. The number of cases confirmed positive by an immunodiagnostic test and etiological diagnosis and advanced schistosomiasis cases dramatically declined during the study period. Significant global spatial autocorrelation of schistosomiasis patients was found at the village level in the whole province in 5 years. Clustering and outlier analysis showed that most HH villages were mainly concentrated along the Yangtze River, especially in Jianghan Plain. Spatial and spatiotemporal cluster analyses showed that significant clusters of the schistosomiasis cases were detected at the village level. In general, space and spatiotemporal clustering of schistosomiasis cases at the village level demonstrated a downward trend from 2013 from 2017 in Hubei Province. High-risk regions included Jianghan Plain along the middle reach of Yangtze River and Yangxin County in the lower reaches of the Yangtze River in Hubei Province. To eliminate schistosomiasis, precise control and management of schistosomiasis cases should be strictly implemented. Moreover, comprehensive prevention and control measures should be continuously strengthened in these regions.
PRICES AND WAGES IN SEGOVIA, 1571–1807
Authors: Andrés Ucendo José Ignacio , Lanza García Ramón
Published: November 2019

This paper deals with the evolution of wages in the construction offices of Segovia, one of the most important Castilian and Spanish manufacturing towns, between 1571 and 1807. Part two deals with the nominal wages earned by the building officials and labourers of the city and part three presents the Segovian prices index between 1571 and 1807. Finally, part four analyses the evolution of the real wages earned in the construction offices of the town. Segovian real wages evolved in line with the local economy; after peaking in the first quarter of the 17thcentury, they experienced a continuous decline, so in 1807 the real wages of Segovian building officials and labourers were 50 per cent of those of the first quarter of the 17thcentury.
The costs of war: Condolence payments and the politics of killing civilians
Authors: Gregory Thomas
Published: November 2019

Coalition forces have spent upwards of $50 million on condolence payments to Afghan and Iraqi civilians. These condolence payments were intended as an expression of sympathy rather than an admission of fault, and the programme itself has been criticised for the arbitrary, inconsistent, and low valuation of civilian lives. Rather than focus on the practical problems associated with condolence payments or normative arguments about whether belligerents ought to compensate those harmed, this article will trace the strategic imperatives that underpinned this programme and shaped its development. As coalition forces began to recognise the strategic costs of civilian casualties, they used a variety of tactics to mitigate the effects of civilian casualties on the success of military operations. This article will argue that condolence payments should not be seen as a humanitarian gesture designed to recognise and respond to the suffering of ordinary civilians, but will argue that condolence payments should be viewed as a weapons system aimed at securing specific military goals. As such, this article will argue that condolence payments continued to objectify and devalue the lives of Afghans and Iraqis by treating them as a means to an end rather than an end in themselves.
Patient autonomy and participation in end-of-life decision-making: An interpretive-systemic focus group study on perspectives of Asian healthcare professionals
Authors: Dutta Oindrila , Lall Priya , Patinadan Paul Victor , Car Josip , Low Chan Kee , Tan Woan Shin , Ho Andy Hau Yan
Published: November 2019

Objectives

Asia's first national advance care planning (ACP) program was established in Singapore in 2011 to enhance patient autonomy and self-determination in end-of-life (EoL) care decision-making. However, no known study has examined the extent to which ACP in Singapore successfully met its aims. The purpose of the current study was to examine the attitudes of local healthcare professionals on patients’ autonomy in decision-making at the EoL since they strongly influence the extent to which patient and family wishes are fulfilled.

Methods

Guided by the Interpretive-Systemic Framework and Proctor's conceptual taxonomy of implementation research outcomes, an interview guide was developed. Inquiries focused on healthcare professionals’ attitudes towards ACP, their clinical experiences working with patients and families, and their views on program effectiveness. Sixty-three physicians, nurses, medical social workers, and designated ACP coordinators who were actively engaged in ACP facilitation were recruited from seven major hospitals and specialist centers in Singapore through purposive sampling. Twelve interpretive-systemic focus groups were conducted, recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using a thematic analysis.

Results

The extent to which patients in Singapore can exert autonomy in EoL care decision-making is influenced by five themes: (i) collusion over truth-telling to patient, (ii) deferment of autonomy by patients, (iii) negotiating patient self-determination, (iv) relational autonomy as the gold standard and (v) barriers to realization of patient choices.

Significance of results

Healthcare practitioners in Asian communities must align themselves with the values and needs of patients and their family and jointly make decisions that are consistent and congruent with the values of patients and their families. Sensitivity towards such cross-cultural practices is key to enhancing ACP awareness, discourse, and acceptability in Asian communities.
An examination of Latino-advanced cancer patients' and their informal caregivers' preferences for communication about advance care planning: A qualitative study
Authors: Shen Megan Johnson , Gonzalez Cyndi , Leach Benjamin , Maciejewski Paul K. , Kozlov Elissa , Prigerson Holly G.
Published: November 2019

Objectives

Latino-advanced cancer patients engage in advance care planning (ACP) at lower rates than non-Latino patients. The goal of the present study was to understand patients' and caregivers' preferred methods of communicating about ACP.

Methods

Patients and caregivers were interviewed about cultural, religious, and familial beliefs that influence engagement in ACP and preferences for ACP communication.

Results

Findings highlighted that Latino patients respect doctors' medical advice, prefer the involvement of family members in ACP discussions with doctors, hold optimistic religious beliefs (e.g., belief in miracles) that hinder ACP discussions, and prefer culturally competent approaches, such as using their native language, for learning how to discuss end-of-life (EoL) care preferences.

Significance of results

Key cultural, religious, and familial beliefs and dynamics influence Latino engagement in ACP. Patients prefer a family-centered, physician informed approach to discussing ACP with consideration and incorporation of their religious medical beliefs about EoL care. Promising targets for improving the communication of and engagement in ACP include integrating cultural and religious beliefs in ACP discussions, providing information about ACP from the physician, involving family members in ACP discussions and decision-making, and giving instructions on how to engage in ACP discussions.
Flaxseed and evening primrose oil slightly affect systolic and diastolic function of isolated heart in male but not in female rats
Authors: Andjic Marijana , Draginic Nevena , Radoman Kristina , Jeremic Jovana , Turnic Tamara Nikolic , Srejovic Ivan , Zivkovic Vladimir , Kovacevic Marija , Bolevich Sergey , Jakovljevic Vladimir
Published: November 2019

Abstract. Considering that sex related differences in cardiac response to flaxseed (FSO) and evening primrose oil (EPO) are insufficiently known present investigation assessed the effect of these two oils, on the cardiac function of isolated rat hearts and the possible role of sex in this. The present study was carried out on 60 adult male Wistar albino rats randomly divided into 6 groups: male rats treated with EPO, dose of 10 mg/kg/day; female rats treated with EPO, dose of 10 mg/kg/day; male rats treated with FSO, dose of 300 mg/kg/day; female rats treated with FSO, dose of 300 mg/kg/day; control group of female rats treated with regular laboratory diet for animals; control group of male rats treated with regular laboratory diet for animals. Using the Langendorff technique, markers of the heart function were evaluated: the maximum and minimum rates of pressure development in the left ventricle (LV; dP/dtmax, dP/dtmin), systolic and diastolic left ventricular pressure (SLVP, DLVP, respectively), heart rate (HR) and coronary flow (CF). Male rats treated with EPO had significantly higher (p = 0.016) mean values of dP/dtmax, dP/dtmin, SLVP and DLVP (average increase for all CPPs 20%, 25%, 30% and 110%, respectively), compared to the group of male rats treated with FSO (p = 0.914). Our study results indicate that both types of PUFA oils only slightly changed the function of the isolated rat heart in male but not in female rats. Nevertheless, the difference between oil treatments was found in male rats who had stronger cardiac response after supplementation with EPO.
L-arginine effect on inflammatory mediators: A systematic review of	randomized controlled clinical trials
Authors: Mirhafez Seyed Reza , Hariri Mitra
Published: November 2019

Abstract. L-arginine is an important factor in several physiological and biochemical processes. Recently, scientists studied L-arginine effect on inflammatory mediators such as C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). We conducted a systematic review on randomized controlled trials assessing L-arginine effect on inflammatory mediators. We searched data bases including Google scholar, ISI web of science, SCOPUS, and PubMed/Medline up to April 2019. Randomized clinical trials assessing the effect of L-arginine on inflammatory mediators in human adults were included. Our search retrieved eleven articles with 387 participants. Five articles were on patients with cancer and 6 articles were on adults without cancer. L-arginine was applied in enteral form in 5 articles and in oral form in 6 articles. Eight articles were on both genders, two articles were on women, and one article was on men. L-arginine could not reduce inflammatory mediators among patients with and without cancer except one article which indicated that taking L-arginine for 6 months decreased IL-6 among cardiopathic nondiabetic patients. Our results indicated that L-arginine might not be able to reduce selected inflammatory mediators, but for making a firm decision more studies are needed to be conducted with longer intervention duration, separately on male and female and with different doses of L-arginine.
Export Flux, Biogeochemical Effects, and the Fate of a Terrestrial Carbonate System: From Changjiang (Yangtze River) Estuary to the East China Sea
Authors: Xiong Tian‐qi , Liu Peng‐fei , Zhai Wei‐dong , Bai Yan , Liu Dong , Qi Di , Zheng Nan , Liu Jin‐wen , Guo Xiang‐hui , Cheng Tian‐yu , Zhang Hai‐xia , Wang Song‐yin , He Xian‐qiang , Chen Jian‐fang , Li Ru
Published: November 2019

Seasonal variations in the transports of total alkalinity (TAlk) and dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) from the Lower Changjiang (Yangtze) River/Estuary to the East China Sea were investigated based on a series of field surveys in 2015–2017, including monthly samplings at Datong Station and seasonal mapping cruises in the Changjiang Estuary and the adjacent northwestern East China Sea. In comparison with historical data sets, the Changjiang TAlk flux varied around a nearly stable average over the past 55 years. This is much different from some American rivers, where TAlk export fluxes increased for a century long. To assess effects of riverine carbonate inputs on coastal carbonate chemistry, we compared several cases showing freshwater‐dilution‐induced decline in coastal aragonite saturation state (Ωarag), including rainwater dilution and riverine water dilution. Without riverine carbonate inputs, the effect of a unit of salinity decrease (due to rainwater dilution) on Ωarag was expected to be counteracted by a DIC removal of 10 μmol/kg relative to the baseline value along relevant conservative mixing line, when coastal Ωarag was close to a critical value of 1.5. Considering terrestrial carbonate inputs from Changjiang, however, the freshwater‐dilution‐induced coastal Ωarag suppression decreased by 12%. Our data also showed that more than 10% of wet‐season DIC flux discharged from the Changjiang Estuary was sequestered by biological activities in nearshore areas, while the TAlk flux was rarely affected. This biological alteration effectively transformed the terrestrial carbonate system from a feature of DIC:TAlk >1.0 to the usual seawater feature of DIC:TAlk <0.9.
Retrieval of Aerosol Optical Depth Over North China From Polarized Satellite Observations Using Re‐derived Surface Properties
Authors: Wang Han , Zhao Meiru , Yang Leiku , Liu Pei , Du Weibing , Sun Xiaobing
Published: November 2019

Key Points

We re‐derived the spectral relationships of surface polarized reflectance over north China

Aerosol optical depths over north China were retrieved from polarized satellite observations using the new relationships

The seasonal variation of vegetable surface is the main disturbance in aerosol retrieval
Investigation on the Distinct Nocturnal Secondary Sodium Layer Behavior Above 95 km in Winter and Summer Over Logan, UT (41.7°N, 112°W) and Arecibo Observatory, PR (18.3°N, 67°W)
Authors: Cai Xuguang , Yuan Tao , Eccles J. Vincent , Raizada Shika
Published: November 2019

Recent studies reveal that the Secondary sodium layer (SeSL) occurs more frequently in summer than in winter at midlatitudes. However, the physical mechanism underlying such seasonal difference is still a mystery due to the complexity of the process that involves both chemistry and neutral dynamics. In this paper, we undertake a statistical study based on seven‐year Na lidar observations at Utah State University in Logan, Utah (41.7°N, 112°W), and 12‐year Na lidar observations at Arecibo Observatory, Puerto Rico (18.3°N, 67°W), along with a two‐dimensional numerical model simulations, to investigate the mechanism that drives such summer‐winter difference of the SeSL occurrence rate in the middle latitude. The numerical simulations reveal that the Na number density, width of the mesospheric Na main layer, and the behavior of Na+ all strongly influence the winter‐summer occurrence of the nocturnal SeSL at Utah State University. And this mechanism is also able to explain the winter‐summer SeSL difference over other midlatitude locations in China, and that observed in the mid‐low‐latitude station at Arecibo Observatory.
Quantifying the Effects of Nutrient Enrichment and Freshwater Mixing on Coastal Ocean Acidification
Authors: Rheuban Jennie E. , Doney Scott C. , McCorkle Daniel C. , Jakuba Rachel W.
Published: November 2019

The U.S. Northeast is vulnerable to ocean and coastal acidification because of low alkalinity freshwater discharge that naturally acidifies the region, and high anthropogenic nutrient loads that lead to eutrophication in many estuaries. This study describes a combined nutrient and carbonate chemistry monitoring program in five embayments of Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts to quantify the effects of nutrient loading and freshwater discharge on aragonite saturation state (Ω). Monitoring occurred monthly from June 2015 to September 2017 with higher frequency at two embayments (Quissett and West Falmouth Harbors) and across nitrogen loading and freshwater discharge gradients. The more eutrophic stations experienced seasonal aragonite undersaturation, and at one site, nearly every measurement collected was undersaturated. We present an analytical framework to decompose variability in aragonite Ω into components driven by temperature, salinity, freshwater endmember mixing, and biogeochemical processes. We observed strong correlations between apparent oxygen utilization and the portion of aragonite Ω variation that we attribute to biogeochemistry. The regression slopes were consistent with Redfield ratios of dissolved inorganic carbon and total alkalinity to dissolved oxygen. Total nitrogen and the contribution of biogeochemical processes to aragonite Ω were highly correlated, and this relationship was used to estimate the likely effects of nitrogen loading improvements on aragonite Ω. Under nitrogen loading reduction scenarios, aragonite Ω in the most eutrophic estuaries could be raised by nearly 0.6 units, potentially increasing several stations above the critical threshold of 1. This analysis provides a quantitative framework for incorporating ocean and coastal acidification impacts into regulatory and management discussions.
Comparison of Estimation Methods for a Nonstationary Index‐Flood Model in Flood Frequency Analysis Using Peaks Over Threshold
Authors: Durocher Martin , Burn Donald H. , Ashkar Fahim
Published: November 2019

Accurate estimation of flood frequency is crucial for designing safe infrastructures. To reduce model uncertainty, threshold modeling techniques are often useful in bringing more valuable flood information into the analysis than traditional models based on annual maximum discharges. Due to climatic or anthropogenic causes, changes in flood magnitudes in many parts of the world have been observed and are expected to continue in the future. To characterize such changes, nonstationary models have focused on the modeling of stations with long records, but in practice such models may be needed to improve the evaluation of flood risk for stations having shorter records. In this study, a nonstationary index‐flood model for peaks over threshold is investigated to reduce model uncertainty. The assumption of an index‐flood model is used to define a probability structure that is stable in time. This allows to extend existing (stationary) procedures to automatically calibrate the proposed model in an at‐site and regional context. As part of this procedure, four estimators are investigated in a simulation study to determine which perform best in different situations. Two methods are based on the combination of regression techniques and L‐moments, while the other two methods employ likelihood‐based techniques. A case study of 425 stations in Canada is considered to verify if a nonstationary index‐flood model using pooling groups that combine stationary and nonstationary stations can reduce the uncertainty of design levels associated with a finite reference period.
Amphetamine disrupts haemodynamic correlates of prediction errors in nucleus accumbens and orbitofrontal cortex
Authors: Werlen Emilie , Shin Soon-Lim , Gastambide Francois , Francois Jennifer , Tricklebank Mark D. , Marston Hugh M. , Huxter John R. , Gilmour Gary , Walton Mark E.
Published: November 2019

In an uncertain world, the ability to predict and update the relationships between environmental cues and outcomes is a fundamental element of adaptive behaviour. This type of learning is typically thought to depend on prediction error, the difference between expected and experienced events and in the reward domain that has been closely linked to mesolimbic dopamine. There is also increasing behavioural and neuroimaging evidence that disruption to this process may be a cross-diagnostic feature of several neuropsychiatric and neurological disorders in which dopamine is dysregulated. However, the precise relationship between haemodynamic measures, dopamine and reward-guided learning remains unclear. To help address this issue, we used a translational technique, oxygen amperometry, to record haemodynamic signals in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) and orbitofrontal cortex (OFC), while freely moving rats performed a probabilistic Pavlovian learning task. Using a model-based analysis approach to account for individual variations in learning, we found that the oxygen signal in the NAc correlated with a reward prediction error, whereas in the OFC it correlated with an unsigned prediction error or salience signal. Furthermore, an acute dose of amphetamine, creating a hyperdopaminergic state, disrupted rats’ ability to discriminate between cues associated with either a high or a low probability of reward and concomitantly corrupted prediction error signalling. These results demonstrate parallel but distinct prediction error signals in NAc and OFC during learning, both of which are affected by psychostimulant administration. Furthermore, they establish the viability of tracking and manipulating haemodynamic signatures of reward-guided learning observed in human fMRI studies by using a proxy signal for BOLD in a freely behaving rodent.
Correction: Dual role for miR-34a in the control of early progenitor proliferation and commitment in the mammary gland and in breast cancer
Authors: Bonetti Paola , Climent Montserrat , Panebianco Fabiana , Tordonato Chiara , Santoro Angela , Marzi Matteo Jacopo , Pelicci Pier Giuseppe , Ventura Andrea , Nicassio Francesco
Published: November 2019

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.