bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating the mechanisms underlying phytoprotection by plant growth‐promoting rhizobacteria in Spartina densiflora under metal stress
Authors: Paredes‐Páliz K. , Rodríguez‐Vázquez R. , Duarte B. , Caviedes M. A. , Mateos‐Naranjo E. , Redondo‐Gómez S. , Caçador M. I. , Rodríguez‐Llorente I. D. , Pajuelo E.
Published: January 2018

Pollution of coasts by toxic metals and metalloids is a worldwide problem for which phytoremediation using halophytes and associated microbiomes is becoming relevant. Metal(loid) excess is a constraint for plant establishment and development, and plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) mitigate plant stress under these conditions. However, mechanisms underlying this effect remain elusive. The effect of toxic metal(loid)s on activity and gene expression of ROS‐scavenging enzymes in roots of the halophyte Spartina densiflora grown on real polluted sediments in a greenhouse experiment was investigated.

Sediments of the metal‐polluted joint estuary of Tinto and Odiel rivers and control, unpollutred samples from the Piedras estuary were collected and submitted to ICP‐OES. Seeds of S. densiflora were collected from the polluted Odiel marshes and grown in polluted and unpolluted sediments. Rhizophere biofilm‐forming bacteria were selected based on metal tolerance and inoculated to S. densiflora and grown for 4 months. Fresh or frozen harvested plants were used for enzyme assays and gene expression studies, respectively.

Metal excess induced SOD (five‐fold increase), whereas CAT and ascorbate peroxidase displayed minor induction (twofold). A twofold increase of TBARs indicated membrane damage. Our results showed that metal‐resistant PGPR (P. agglomerans RSO6 and RSO7 and B. aryabhattai RSO25) contributed to alleviate metal stress, as deduced from lower levels of all antioxidant enzymes to levels below those of non‐exposed plants. The oxidative stress index (OSI) decreased between 50 and 75% upon inoculation.

The results also evidenced the important role of PAL, involved in secondary metabolism and/or lignin synthesis, as a pathway for metal stress management in this halophyte upon inoculation with appropriate PGPR, since the different inoculation treatments enhanced PAL expression between 3.75‐ and five‐fold. Our data confirm, at the molecular level, the role of PGPR in alleviating metal stress in S. densiflora and evidence the difficulty of working with halophytes for which little genetic information is available.
Role of ethylene and related gene expression in the interaction between strawberry plants and the plant growth‐promoting bacterium Azospirillum brasilense
Authors: Elías J. M. , Guerrero‐Molina M. F. , Martínez‐Zamora M. G. , Díaz‐Ricci J. C. , Pedraza R. O.
Published: January 2018

Induced systemic resistance (ISR) is one of the indirect mechanisms of growth promotion exerted by plant growth‐promoting bacteria, and can be mediated by ethylene (ET). We assessed ET production and the expression of related genes in the Azospirillum–strawberry plant interaction.

Ethylene production was evaluated by gas chromatography in plants inoculated or not with A. brasilense REC3. Also, plants were treated with AgNO3, an inhibitor of ET biosynthesis; with 1‐aminocyclopropane‐1‐carboxylic acid (ACC), a precursor of ET biosynthesis; and with indole acetic acid (IAA). Plant dry biomass and the growth index were determined to assess the growth‐promoting effect of A. brasilense REC3 in strawberry plants. Quantitative real time PCR (qRT‐PCR) was performed to analyse relative expression of the genes Faetr1, Faers1 and Faein4, which encode ET receptors; Factr1 and Faein2, involved in the ET signalling pathway; Faacs1 encoding ACC synthase; Faaco1 encoding ACC oxidase; and Faaux1 and Faami1 for IAA synthesis enzymes.

Results showed that ET acts as a rapid and transient signal in the first 12 h post‐treatment. A. brasilense REC3‐inoculated plants had a significantly higher growth index compared to control plants. Modulation of the genes Faetr1, Faers1, Faein4, Factr1, Faein2 and Faaco1 indicated activation of ET synthesis and signalling pathways. The up‐regulation of Faaux1 and Faami1 involved in IAA synthesis suggested that inoculation with A. brasilense REC3 induces production of this auxin, modulating ET signalling.

Ethylene production and up‐regulation of genes associated with ET signalling in strawberry plants inoculated with A. brasilense REC3 support the priming activation characteristic of ISR. This type of resistance and the activation of systemic acquired resistance previously observed in this interaction indicate that both are present in strawberry plants, could act synergistically and increase protection against pathogens.
Induced Earthquakes from Long‐Term Gas Extraction in Groningen, the Netherlands: Statistical Analysis and Prognosis for Acceptable‐Risk Regulation
Authors: Vlek Charles
Published: January 2018

Recently, growing earthquake activity in the northeastern Netherlands has aroused considerable concern among the 600,000 provincial inhabitants. There, at 3 km deep, the rich Groningen gas field extends over 900 km2 and still contains about 600 of the original 2,800 billion cubic meters (bcm). Particularly after 2001, earthquakes have increased in number, magnitude (M, on the logarithmic Richter scale), and damage to numerous buildings. The man‐made nature of extraction‐induced earthquakes challenges static notions of risk, complicates formal risk assessment, and questions familiar conceptions of acceptable risk. Here, a 26‐year set of 294 earthquakes with M ≥ 1.5 is statistically analyzed in relation to increasing cumulative gas extraction since 1963. Extrapolations from a fast‐rising trend over 2001–2013 indicate that—under “business as usual”—around 2021 some 35 earthquakes with M ≥ 1.5 might occur annually, including four with M ≥ 2.5 (ten‐fold stronger), and one with M ≥ 3.5 every 2.5 years. Given this uneasy prospect, annual gas extraction has been reduced from 54 bcm in 2013 to 24 bcm in 2017. This has significantly reduced earthquake activity, so far. However, when extraction is stabilized at 24 bcm per year for 2017–2021 (or 21.6 bcm, as judicially established in Nov. 2017), the annual number of earthquakes would gradually increase again, with an expected all‐time maximum M ≈ 4.5. Further safety management may best follow distinct stages of seismic risk generation, with moderation of gas extraction and massive (but late and slow) building reinforcement as outstanding strategies. Officially, “acceptable risk” is mainly approached by quantification of risk (e.g., of fatal building collapse) for testing against national safety standards, but actual (local) risk estimation remains problematic. Additionally important are societal cost–benefit analysis, equity considerations, and precautionary restraint. Socially and psychologically, deliberate attempts are made to improve risk communication, reduce public anxiety, and restore people's confidence in responsible experts and policymakers.
Four cases of iridociliary tumors in domestic rabbits (Oryctolagus Cuniculus)
Authors: Swisher Samantha D. , Klein Heidi , Lennox Angela M. , Reavill Drury R. , Teixeira Leandro B. C. , Shaw Gillian C.
Published: January 2018

Spontaneously occurring ocular neoplasia is rarely reported in rabbits. This case series presents four cases of rabbits diagnosed with iridociliary tumors, which have not been previously reported in this species. Major pathological findings include epithelial tumors affecting the anterior uvea with variable pigmentation and basement membrane formation. Follow‐up information was only available for two cases, but neither showed evidence of metastasis, suggesting that the prognosis for these tumors in rabbits, as in other species, may be very good.
Outcomes From the First Helene Fuld Health Trust National Institute for Evidence‐Based Practice in Nursing and Healthcare Invitational Expert Forum
Authors: Melnyk Bernadette Mazurek , Gallagher‐Ford Lynn , Zellefrow Cindy , Tucker Sharon , Van Dromme Laurel , Thomas Bindu Koshy
Published: January 2018

Background

Even though multiple positive outcomes are the result of evidence‐based care, including improvements in healthcare quality, safety, and costs, it is not consistently delivered by clinicians in healthcare systems throughout the world.

Aims

In an attempt to accelerate the implementation of evidence‐based practice (EBP) across the United States, an invitational Interprofessional National EBP Forum to determine major priorities for the advancement of EBP was held during the launch of the newly established Helene Fuld Health Trust National Institute for Evidence‐Based Practice in Nursing and Healthcare at The Ohio State University College of Nursing.

Methods

Interprofessional leaders from national organizations and federal agencies across the United States were invited to participate in the Forum. A pre‐Forum survey was disseminated to participants to assess their perceptions of the state of EBP and actions necessary to speed the translation of research into real‐world clinical settings.

Results

Findings from a pre‐Forum survey (n = 47) indicated ongoing low implementation of EBP in U.S. healthcare settings. These findings were shared with leaders from 45 organizations and agencies who attended the Forum. Breakout groups on practice, education, implementation science, and policy discussed the findings and responded to a set of standardized questions. High‐priority action tactics were identified, including the need for: (a) enhanced reimbursement for EBP, (b) more interprofessional education and skills building in EBP, and (c) leaders to prioritize EBP and fuel it with resources.

Linking Evidence to Action

The delivery of and reimbursement for evidence‐based care must become a high national priority. Academic faculty across all healthcare disciplines need to teach EBP, healthcare systems must invest in EBP resources, and payers must attach reimbursement to care that is evidence‐based. An action collaborative of the participating organizations has been formed to accelerate EBP across the United States to achieve the quadruple aim in health care.
Parallel Analysis of Linear Systems in CORTH and KYLIN2
Authors: Ming Pingzhou , Chen Dingyong , Wu Bin , Lu Wei , Liu Dong , Yu Hongxing
Published: January 2018

Subchannel thermal-hydraulics program named CORe thermal-hydraulics (CORTH) and assembly lattice calculation program named KYLIN2 have been developed in Nuclear Power Institute of China (NPIC). For the sake of promoting the efficiencies of these programs and achieving the better description on fined parameters of reactor, programs' linear systems and details are interpreted and parallelized. Test results show that the calculation efficiencies of linear systems occupy a large proportion of according serial computation. Based on the analysis, both programs' efficiencies are improved greatly through the proposed distributed-memory parallel strategy.
Determination of Repair Weld Residual Stress in a Tube to Tube-Sheet Joint by Neutron Diffraction and the Finite Element Method
Authors: Luo Yun , Jiang Wenchun , Chen Dongfeng , Wimpory Robert C. , Li Meijuan , Liu Xiaolong
Published: January 2018

Repair welding is a popular method to repair the leakage zone in tube-to-tubesheet joint of shell-tube heat exchangers. But the repaired residual stresses are generated inevitably and have a great effect on stress corrosion cracking (SCC). In this paper, the effects of repair welding on residual stress were studied by finite element method (FEM) and neutron diffraction measurement. The original weld residual stresses calculated by FEM showed good agreement with neutron diffraction measurement results. After repair welding, the transverse residual stresses change very little while the longitudinal residual stresses are increased in the repair zone. In the nonrepair zone, both the transverse and longitudinal stresses are decreased. The repair welding times have little effect on residual stress distribution. With the increase of welding length and heat input, the residual stresses increase. Repair opposite to the original welding direction is recommended because the opposite welding direction minimizes the residual stresses.
Swept-tone stimulus-frequency otoacoustic emissions: Normative data and methodological considerations
Authors: Abdala Carolina , Guardia Yeini C. , Shera Christopher A.
Published: January 2018

Stimulus-frequency otoacoustic emissions (SFOAEs) are reflection-source emissions, and are the least familiar and perhaps most underutilized otoacoustic emission. Here, normative SFOAE data are presented from a large group of 48 young adults at probe levels from 20 to 60 dB sound pressure level (SPL) across a four-octave frequency range to characterize the typical SFOAE and describe recent methodological advances that have made its measurement more efficient. In young-adult ears, SFOAE levels peaked in the low-to-mid frequencies at mean levels of ∼6–7 dB SPL while signal-to-noise ranged from 23 to 34 dB SPL and test-retest reliability was ±4 dB for 90% of the SFOAE data. On average, females had ∼2.5 dB higher SFOAE levels than males. SFOAE input/output functions showed near linear growth at low levels and a compression threshold averaging 35 dB SPL across frequency. SFOAE phase accumulated ∼32–36 cycles across four octaves on average, and showed level effects when converted to group delay: low-level probes produced longer SFOAE delays. A “break” in the normalized SFOAE delay was observed at 1.1 kHz on average, elucidating the location of the putative apical-basal transition. Technical innovations such as the concurrent sweeping of multiple frequency segments, post hoc suppressor decontamination, and a post hoc artifact-rejection technique were tested.
Presenting and processing information in background noise: A combined speaker–listener perspective
Authors: Bockstael Annelies , Samyn Laurie , Corthals Paul , Botteldooren Dick
Published: January 2018

Transferring information orally in background noise is challenging, for both speaker and listener. Successful transfer depends on complex interaction between characteristics related to listener, speaker, task, background noise, and context. To fully assess the underlying real-life mechanisms, experimental design has to mimic this complex reality. In the current study, the effects of different types of background noise have been studied in an ecologically valid test design. Documentary-style information had to be presented by the speaker and simultaneously acquired by the listener in four conditions: quiet, unintelligible multitalker babble, fluctuating city street noise, and little varying highway noise. For both speaker and listener, the primary task was to focus on the content that had to be transferred. In addition, for the speakers, the occurrence of hesitation phenomena was assessed. The listener had to perform an additional secondary task to address listening effort. For the listener the condition with the most eventful background noise, i.e., fluctuating city street noise, appeared to be the most difficult with markedly longer duration of the secondary task. In the same fluctuating background noise, speech appeared to be less disfluent, suggesting a higher level of concentration from the speaker's side.
Uncovering mental representations of smiled speech using reverse correlation
Authors: Ponsot Emmanuel , Arias Pablo , Aucouturier Jean-Julien
Published: January 2018

Which spectral cues underlie the perceptual processing of smiles in speech? Here, the question was addressed using reverse-correlation in the case of the isolated vowel [a]. Listeners were presented with hundreds of pairs of utterances with randomly manipulated spectral characteristics and were asked to indicate, in each pair, which was the most smiling. The analyses revealed that they relied on robust spectral representations that specifically encoded vowel's formants. These findings demonstrate the causal role played by formants in the perception of smile. Overall, this paper suggests a general method to estimate the spectral bases of high-level (e.g., emotional/social/paralinguistic) speech representations.
Air pollution's hidden impacts
Authors: Zivin Joshua Graff , Neidell Matthew
Published: January 2018

Exposure can affect labor productivity and human capital
New connections: Signaling in learning disability
Authors: Ferrarelli Leslie K.
Published: January 2018

Research in this issue of
Science Signaling
and the Archives brings us steps closer to understanding the origins of learning disability.
CLSI Methods Development and Standardization Working Group Best Practices for Evaluation of Antimicrobial Susceptibility Tests
Authors: Humphries Romney M. , Ambler Jane , Mitchell Stephanie L. , Castanheira Mariana , Dingle Tanis , Hindler Janet A. , Koeth Laura , Sei Katherine , Hardy Dwight , Zimmer Barbara , Butler-Wu Susan , Dien Bard Jennifer , Brasso Bill , Shawar Ribhi , Dingle Tanis , Humphries Romney , Sei Katherine , Koeth Laura
Published: January 2018

Effective evaluations of antimicrobial susceptibility tests (ASTs) require robust study design. The Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) Subcommittee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing has recognized that many published studies reporting the performance of commercial ASTs (cASTs) suffer from major design and/or analysis flaws, rendering the results difficult or impossible to interpret. This minireview outlines the current consensus of the Methods Development and Standardization Working Group of the CLSI Subcommittee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing regarding best practices for systematic evaluation of the performance of an AST, including the analysis and presentation of essential data intended for publication.
Targeted Phenotypic Screening in Plasmodium falciparum and Toxoplasma gondii Reveals Novel Modes of Action of Medicines for Malaria Venture Malaria Box Molecules
Authors: Subramanian Gowtham , Belekar Meenakshi A. , Shukla Anurag , Tong Jie Xin , Sinha Ameya , Chu Trang T. T. , Kulkarni Akshay S. , Preiser Peter R. , Reddy D. Srinivasa , Tan Kevin S. W. , Shanmugam Dhanasekaran , Chandramohanadas Rajesh
Published: January 2018

The phylum
Apicomplexa
includes many human and animal pathogens, such as
Plasmodium falciparum
(human malaria) and
Toxoplasma gondii
(human and animal toxoplasmosis). Widespread resistance to current antimalarials and the lack of a commercial vaccine necessitate novel pharmacological interventions with distinct modes of action against malaria. For toxoplasmosis, new drugs to effectively eliminate tissue-dwelling latent cysts of the parasite are needed. The Malaria Box antimalarial collection, managed and distributed by the Medicines for Malaria Venture, includes molecules of novel chemical classes with proven antimalarial efficacy. Using targeted phenotypic assays of
P. falciparum
and
T. gondii
, we have identified a subset of the Malaria Box molecules as potent inhibitors of plastid segregation and parasite invasion and egress, thereby providing early insights into their probable mode of action. Five molecules that inhibit the egress of both parasites have been identified for further mechanistic studies. Thus, the approach we have used to identify novel molecules with defined modes of action in multiple parasites can expedite the development of pan-active antiparasitic agents.
P18 Plasma-lyte 148 vs 0.9% saline for fluid resuscition in children: electrolytic and clinical outcomes
Authors: Andrew Wignell , Patrick Davies
Published: January 2018

Aims

Crystalloid fluid boluses are a mainstay of treatment in unwell children, with the traditional fluid of choice being 0.9% saline (NS). However, the use of NS has been associated with an increase in plasma chloride levels and acidosis, leading to kidney injury and other detrimental clinical effects. Plasma-Lyte 148 (PLA) is a balanced, physiological, crystalloid intravenous fluid, which is both calcium-free and isotonic. Its use in place of NS for fluid resuscitation may circumvent hyperchloraemic metabolic acidosis. In May 2015 our hospital altered its standard resuscitation fluid from NS to PLA. We aimed to compare the effect of fluid boluses of NS to those of PLA in children.

Methods

All patients admitted in the 18 month periods before and after the change from NS to PLA, and receiving a fluid bolus in the first 24 hours of admission, were included. Post-surgical patients and those who had undergone haemofiltration were excluded. Arterial blood gas and creatinine values for up to 5 days after bolus fluid administration were examined. Patients were stratified according to the total resuscitation volume (ml/kg), then split into categories determined by the balance of PLA vs. NS.

The primary outcome was plasma chloride. Secondary outcomes included blood pH and percentage change in creatinine. Clinical outcomes were length of ventilation and length of PICU stay.

Results

126 patients were included in the analysis. Patients receiving NS boluses tended to have a higher maximum chloride, higher average chloride, lower pH and higher percentage creatinine increase than those given PLA. Subgroup analysis showed a statistically significant difference in average serum chloride for the 61–90 ml/kg group {PLA 105.59±1.29 vs NS 111.29±2.1 mmol/L; difference: −6.21 [95% confidence interval (CI)−9.55,–2.87]}. Patients who received PLA tended to have a higher pH than those receiving NS. A statistically significant difference was seen in the 10–30 ml/kg group [PLA 7.42±0.49 vs NS 7.33±0.65; difference: 0.0913 (95% CI: −0.18 to −0.02)].

Significant differences were not seen in the clinical outcomes of length of stay or ventilation

Conclusion

PLA as a resuscitation fluid is significantly associated with a more physiological plasma chloride and pH across several resuscitation fluid volume categories, when compared to NS. The trends in the other fluid volume categories are in line with these findings, but are not statistically significant. There was also a trend towards patients receiving PLA having a lower percentage rise in creatinine than those who received saline. These results were consistent over all weight and age categories.
BET 2: Is early chemical thromboprophylaxis safe in patients with blunt trauma solid organ injury (SOI) undergoing non-operative management (NOM)?
Authors: Ferguson Craig , Lewin Jonathan
Published: January 2018

A short cut review was carried out to establish whether chemical thromboprophylaxis was a safe early intervention in patients with solid organ injury that is being managed non-operatively. Eight papers presented the best evidence to answer the clinical question. The author, date and country of publication, patient group studied, study type, relevant outcomes, results and study weaknesses of these papers are tabulated. It is concluded that there is inadequate evidence assessing safety of low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) within 24 hours of trauma. The current available evidence does suggest that administration of LMWH within 48 hours is safe in non-operative management of patients who have sustained solid organ injury from blunt trauma.
Protective effect of C-peptide on experimentally induced diabetic nephropathy and the possible link between C-peptide and nitric oxide
Authors: Elbassuoni Eman A. , Aziz Neven M. , El-Tahawy Nashwa F.
Published: January 2018

Diabetic nephropathy one of the major microvascular diabetic complications. Besides hyperglycemia, other factors contribute to the development of diabetic complications as the proinsulin connecting peptide, C-peptide. We described the role of C-peptide replacement therapy on experimentally induced diabetic nephropathy, and its potential mechanisms of action by studying the role of nitric oxide (NO) as a mediator of C-peptide effects by in vivo modulating its production by NG-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME). Renal injury markers measured were serum urea, creatinine, tumor necrosis factor alpha, and angiotensin II, and malondialdehyde, total antioxidant, Bcl-2, and NO in renal tissue. In conclusion, diabetic induction resulted in islet degenerations and decreased insulin secretion with its metabolic consequences and subsequent renal complications. C-Peptide deficiencies in diabetes might have contributed to the metabolic and renal error, since C-peptide treatment to the diabetic rats completely corrected these errors. The beneficial effects of C-peptide are partially antagonized by L-NAME coadministration, indicating that NO partially mediates C-peptide effects.
Development of a recombinase polymerase amplification assay forVibrio parahaemolyticusdetection with an internal amplification control
Authors: Yang Huan-Lan , Wei Shuang , Gooneratne Ravi , Mutukumira Anthony N. , Ma Xue-Jun , Tang Shu-Ze , Wu Xi-Yang
Published: January 2018

A novel RPA–IAC assay using recombinase polymerase and an internal amplification control (IAC) for Vibrio parahaemolyticus detection was developed. Specific primers were designed based on the coding sequence for the toxR gene in V. parahaemolyticus. The recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) reaction was conducted at a constant low temperature of 37 °C for 20 min. Assay specificity was validated by using 63 Vibrio strains and 10 non-Vibrio bacterial species. In addition, a competitive IAC was employed to avoid false-negative results, which co-amplified simultaneously with the target sequence. The sensitivity of the assay was determined as 3 × 103CFU/mL, which is decidedly more sensitive than the established PCR method. This method was then used to test seafood samples that were collected from local markets. Seven out of 53 different raw seafoods were detected as V. parahaemolyticus-positive, which were consistent with those obtained using traditional culturing method and biochemical assay. This novel RPA–IAC assay provides a rapid, specific, sensitive, and more convenient detection method for V. parahaemolyticus.
The core of a weakly group-theoretical braided fusion category
Authors: Natale Sonia
Published: January 2018

We show that the core of a weakly group-theoretical braided fusion category [Formula: see text] is equivalent as a braided fusion category to a tensor product [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is a pointed weakly anisotropic braided fusion category, and [Formula: see text] or [Formula: see text] is an Ising braided category. In particular, if [Formula: see text] is integral, then its core is a pointed weakly anisotropic braided fusion category. As an application we give a characterization of the solvability of a weakly group-theoretical braided fusion category. We also prove that an integral modular category all of whose simple objects have Frobenius–Perron dimension at most 2 is necessarily group-theoretical.
Solar Photovoltaic System Interfaced Shunt Active Power Filter for Enhancement of Power Quality in Three-Phase Distribution System
Authors: Senguttuvan S. , Vijayakumar M.
Published: January 2018

This paper presents a solar photovoltaic (SPV) interfaced shunt active power filter (APF), which is certainly one of the utmost effective custom power devices, which mitigates the long duration current harmonics and compensates the reactive power. The shunt APF consists of the parallel connected voltage source inverter (VSI) and storage capacitor which is connected in the DC link. The compensation ability of the APF is mainly inspired by the control technique which is used to estimate the reference source current signal. Furthermore, the controller chooses the number of devices required and measurement practices; thus, it determines the corresponding costs. The fuzzy logic controller (FLC)-based second order generalized integrator (SOGI) is employed to estimate the reference source current of the shunt APF. The presented control scheme does not require voltage associated information and sensors, because it utilizes the details concerning the VSI and load currents. The shunt APF uses the solar photovoltaic (SPV) system with an auxiliary energy storage unit to deliver the required active power to the electric grid and affords the uninterrupted compensation. The performance analysis has been carried out with different load and voltage conditions through the simulation by using the MATLAB/Simulink. The experimental prototype was developed to confirm the usefulness of the PV integrated shunt APF with FLC-based SOGI control scheme.
Regional-scale groundwater investigations for the Crossrail project
Authors: Lawrence U. , Menkiti C. O. , Black M.
Published: January 2018

The Crossrail project includes a new underground railway through the heart of London. It will connect with 110 km of new or upgraded sections of surface rail to Reading, Shenfield and Abbey Wood. Ground investigations for the central tunnelled sections began during the 1990s and continued until 2011 according to a strategy that was based on a review of other major tunnelling projects and best practice. The level of detail in the investigations and subsequent groundwater monitoring varied according to local geological complexity and design requirements. A total of 1019 boreholes were drilled to a maximum depth of 114 m and contained a total of 1314 piezometers. Of these, 233 piezometers were installed during the 1990s and 1081 piezometers and several other monitoring types were installed in the following phase during the 2000s. The ground and groundwater investigation strategy included the following: (1) groundwater monitoring to accurately determine the multiple aquifer regional groundwater regime with varying underdrainage, in the west; (2) tidal monitoring in the east, where an unconfined single aquifer system predominated; (3) investigation of the impact of local features (e.g. fault zones and scour features); (4) determination of long-term groundwater trends. Crossrail data were supplemented with third-party data to provide more information on the far field and provide more definition on larger scale geological structures (e.g. faulting at Farringdon and Limmo). Installation trials were conducted on several types of installation, and their performance for monitoring multiple aquifers, in particular during permeability tests, is discussed. For large projects such as Crossrail, long-term performance of groundwater monitoring installations is critical for establishing a baseline in addition to obtaining information for design. Annual reviews of data backed up by remediation works allowed many installations to provide reliable groundwater data for up to a decade prior to the construction phase.
Evaluation of optimal aquifer yield in Nantong City, China, under land subsidence constraints
Authors: Ma Qingshan , Luo Zujiang , Howard Ken W. F. , Wang Qi
Published: January 2018

Because of land subsidence in Nantong City caused by aquifer pumping, studies have been undertaken using a 3D groundwater flow model linked to a 1D land subsidence model to optimize the rates and distribution of abstraction. Model results to the end of 2022 show that the current pumping regime will cause subsidence rates to exceed established control targets by over 40% locally. However, a radical redistribution of pumping wells including the greater use of shallower aquifers will potentially allow annual yields to be increased threefold to around 128 × 10
6
 m
3
without exceeding those targets. The results of this work have important implications for the sustainable development of groundwater resources in Nantong City and demonstrate the considerable benefits of modelling for proactive aquifer management and protection against subsidence.
No-Tension Sensor Closed-Loop Control Method with Adaptive PI Parameters for Two-Motor Winding System
Authors: Wang Zhiqiang , Nan Haibao , Shi Tingna , Geng Qiang , Xia Changliang
Published: January 2018

In a winding system, it is very important to control the tension precisely. Based on the process of rewinding and unwinding, a sensorless tension control method with PI parameters of adaptive speed controllers is proposed in this paper. According to the principle of torque balance, a tension observer is designed to replace the tension sensor, and the observed value instead of the measured value of tension is used as feedback. Then the measurement delay caused by tension sensor is reduced. For the time-variable inertia, Landau discrete-time recursive algorithm is used to estimate the inertias of the rewind and unwind motors. Moreover, the estimated inertias are used to adjust the PI parameters of the speed controllers. As the tension control system has the ability to adapt to the change of inertia, its dynamic performance is improved to some extent. In addition, the proposed sensorless tension control method is simple and easy to implement, which only uses the current and speed signals of the motors without any additional hardware needed. At last, the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method are verified by the experimental results.
Random Attractor of Reaction-Diffusion Hopfield Neural Networks Driven by Wiener Processes
Authors: Liang Xiao , Wang Linshan , Wang Ruili
Published: January 2018

This paper studies the global existence and uniqueness of the mild solution for reaction-diffusion Hopfield neural networks (RDHNNs) driven by Wiener processes by applying a Schauder fixed point theorem and a priori estimate; then the random attractor for this system is also studied by constructing proper random dynamical system.
Association between Dietary Patterns and Precocious Puberty in Children: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Chen Chang , Chen Yao , Zhang Yunting , Sun Wanqi , Jiang Yanrui , Song Yuanjin , Zhu Qi , Mei Hao , Wang Xiumin , Liu Shijian , Jiang Fan
Published: January 2018

Objective. The aim of the present study was to investigate the association between dietary patterns and precocious puberty among Shanghai children.Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted among Shanghai children by multistage stratified cluster random sampling in June 2014. Diet was assessed using a simplified food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Height, weight, and Tanner stages of breast development, pubic hair growth, and testicular volume were carefully measured. Exploratory factor analysis was used to identify dietary patterns, and logistic regression analysis was used to assess the association between dietary patterns and precocious puberty.Results. Three distinct dietary patterns, “traditional diet,” “unhealthy diet,” and “protein diet,” were established. Neither the “traditional diet” pattern nor the “protein diet” pattern showed any association with precocious puberty, taking gender, BMI, and adjustment factors into consideration. The “unhealthy diet” pattern was significantly positively associated with precocious puberty in both boys (OR = 1.24, 95% CI = 1.02–1.51) and girls (OR = 1.31, 95% CI = 1.10–1.56). The relationship remained positive only for girls (OR = 1.25, 95% CI = 1.04–1.49) after adjustment for age and BMI but statistically nonsignificant after further adjustment for socioeconomic factors in both boys and girls.Conclusions. Dietary patterns were found to be related to precocious puberty among Shanghai children.
Modeling Air Traffic Situation Complexity with a Dynamic Weighted Network Approach
Authors: Wang Hongyong , Song Ziqi , Wen Ruiying
Published: January 2018

In order to address the flight delays and risks associated with the forecasted increase in air traffic, there is a need to increase the capacity of air traffic management systems. This should be based on objective measurements of traffic situation complexity. In current air traffic complexity research, no simple means is available to integrate airspace and traffic flow characteristics. In this paper, we propose a new approach for the measurement of air traffic situation complexity. This approach considers the effects of both airspace and traffic flow and objectively quantifies air traffic situation complexity. Considering the aircraft, waypoints, and airways as nodes, and the complexity relationships among these nodes as edges, a dynamic weighted network is constructed. Air traffic situation complexity is defined as the sum of the weights of all edges in the network, and the relationships of complexity with some commonly used indices are statistically analyzed. The results indicate that the new complexity index is more accurate than traffic count and reflects the number of trajectory changes as well as the high-risk situations. Additionally, analysis of potential applications reveals that this new index contributes to achieving complexity-based management, which represents an efficient method for increasing airspace system capacity.
Caries-Preventive Effect of NaF, NaF plus TCP, NaF plus CPP-ACP, and SDF Varnishes on Sound Dentin and Artificial Dentin Caries in vitro
Authors: Wierichs Richard J. , Stausberg Sabrina , Lausch Julian , Meyer-Lueckel Hendrik , Esteves-Oliveira Marcella
Published: January 2018

The aim of this study was to compare the caries-preventive effect of different fluoride varnishes on sound dentin as well as on artificial dentin caries-like lesions. Bovine dentin specimens (n = 220) with one sound surface (ST) and one artificial caries lesion (DT) were prepared and randomly allocated to 11 groups. The interventions before pH cycling were as follows: application of a varnish containing NaF (22,600 ppm F-; Duraphat [NaF0/NaF1]), NaF plus tricalcium phosphate (22,600 ppm F-; Clinpro White Varnish Mint [TCP0/TCP1]), NaF plus casein phosphopeptide-stabilized amorphous calcium phosphate complexes (CPP-ACP; 22,600 ppm F-; MI Varnish [CPP0/CPP1]), or silver diamine fluoride (SDF; 35,400 ppm F-; Cariestop 30% [SDF0/SDF1]) and no intervention (NNB/N0/N1). During pH cycling (14 days, 6 × 120 min demineralization/day) half of the specimens in each group were brushed (10 s; 2 times/day) with either fluoride-free (“0”; e.g., TCP0) or 1,100 ppm F- (“1”; e.g., TCP1) dentifrice slurry. In another subgroup, the specimens were pH cycled but not brushed (NNB). Differences in integrated mineral loss (ΔΔZ), lesion depth (ΔLD), and colorimetric values (ΔΔE) were calculated between the values after initial demineralization and those after pH cycling, using transversal microradiography and photographic images. After pH cycling, no discoloration could be observed. Furthermore, NNB, N0, and N1 showed significantly increased ΔZDT/LDDT and ΔZST/LDST values, indicating further demineralization. In contrast, CPP0, CPP1, SDF0, and SDF1 showed significantly decreased ΔZDT/LDDT values, indicating remineralization (p ≤ 0.004; paired t test). CPP0, CPP1, SDF0, and SDF1 showed significantly higher changes in ΔΔZDT/ΔLDDT and ΔΔZST/ΔLDST than NNB, N0, and N1 (p < 0.001; Bonferroni post hoc test). In conclusion, under the conditions chosen, all fluoride varnishes prevented further demineralization. However, only NaF plus CPP-ACP and SDF could remineralize artificial dentin caries-like lesions under net-demineralizing conditions, thereby indicating that NaF plus CPP-ACP and SDF may be helpful to high-caries-risk patients.
FcγR/ROS/CK2α Is the Key Inducer of NF-κB Activation in a Murine Model of Asthma
Authors: Kim June-Mo , Kim Hae-Kyoung , Im Yoo-Na , Bae Yun-Soo , Im Suhn-Young , Lee Hern-Ku
Published: January 2018

Background: The transcription factor nuclear factor (NF)-κB plays a pivotal role in the development of allergic airway inflammation. However, the mechanism of NF-κB activation in asthma remains to be elucidated. Methods: CK2α activation was assessed by CK2α phosphorylation and protein expression. Airway levels of histamine and cytokines were determined by ELISA. We used 2 (active and passive) forms of allergic pulmonary inflammation models. In the active form, the animals were immunized with ovalbumin (OVA) intraperitoneally, followed by an airway challenge with OVA. In the passive form, the animals were passively sensitized by intratracheal instillation with either anti-OVA IgE or anti-OVA IgG, followed by an airway challenge with OVA. The role of NADPH oxidase (NOX) in CK2α activation was assessed using NOX2-/- and NOX4-/- mice because NOX2 and NOX4 contribute to many inflammatory diseases. Results: The second airway challenge increased CK2α phosphorylation and protein expression in airway epithelial cells as well as nuclear translocation of the p50 and p65 subunits of NF-κB, all of which were inhibited by the CK2α inhibitor 4,5,6,7-tetrabromobenzotriazole and the antioxidant N-acetyl-L-cysteine. CK2α phosphorylation and protein expression were significantly impaired in NOX2-/-, but not in NOX4-/-, mice. Induction of passive sensitization using anti-OVA IgE activated neither CK2α nor NF-κB. In contrast, induction of passive sensitization using anti-OVA IgG activated both CK2α and NF-κB. Conclusions: These data suggest that Fcγ receptor/reactive oxygen species/CK2α is a key inducer of NF-κB activation in airway epithelial cells in a murine model of asthma.
Automated Screening for Diabetic Retinopathy – A Systematic Review
Authors: Nørgaard Mads Fonager , Grauslund Jakob
Published: January 2018

Purpose: Worldwide ophthalmologists are challenged by the rapid rise in the prevalence of diabetes. Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is the most common complication in diabetes, and possible consequences range from mild visual impairment to blindness. Repetitive screening for DR is cost-effective, but it is also a costly and strenuous affair. Several studies have examined the application of automated image analysis to solve this problem. Large populations are needed to assess the efficacy of such programs, and a standardized and rigorous methodology is important to give an indication of system performance in actual clinical settings. Methods: In a systematic review, we aimed to identify studies with methodology and design that are similar or replicate actual screening scenarios. A total of 1,231 publications were identified through PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Embase searches. Three manual search strategies were carried out to identify publications missed in the primary search. Four levels of screening identified 7 studies applicable for inclusion. Results: Seven studies were included. The detection of DR had high sensitivities (87.0–95.2%) but lower specificities (49.6–68.8%). False-negative results were related to mild DR with a low risk of progression within 1 year. Several studies reported missed cases of diabetic macular edema. A meta-analysis was not conducted as studies were not suitable for direct comparison or statistical analysis. Conclusion: The study demonstrates that despite limited specificity, automated retinal image analysis may potentially be valuable in different DR screening scenarios with a relatively high sensitivity and a substantial workload reduction.
Oral Immunotherapy in Japanese Children with Anaphylactic Peanut Allergy
Authors: Nagakura Ken-ichi , Sato Sakura , Yanagida Noriyuki  , Nishino Makoto , Asaumi Tomoyuki , Ogura Kiyotake , Ebisawa Motohiro
Published: January 2018

Background: Reports on oral immunotherapy (OIT) for anaphylactic food allergy are lacking. We investigated the efficacy and safety of peanut OIT for anaphylactic patients. Methods: We enrolled 22 peanut anaphylactic patients who underwent OIT between 2011 and 2013, all of whom demonstrated anaphylaxis during a baseline double-blind, placebo-controlled food challenge. After starting in-hospital OIT, participants gradually increased ingestion to 795 mg of peanut protein per day at home and then took a maintenance dose (795 mg) daily. After 3 asymptomatic months, participants underwent an oral food challenge (OFC) of 795 mg after 2 weeks of peanut avoidance to confirm sustained unresponsiveness. The historical control group consisted of 11 patients with anaphylaxis by OFC and underwent the second OFC after 2 years. Results: All patients (22/22) achieved desensitization by 8 months after starting OIT and completed the protocol within 2 years. Two years later, 15/22 patients (68.1%) in the OIT group achieved sustained unresponsiveness, whereas only 2 (18.1%) in the control group passed the second OFC. After 2 years, the median peanut-specific IgE had significantly decreased (from 38.5 to 12.4 kUA/L) in the OIT group, but not in the control group. Median peanut- and Ara h 2-specific IgG4 in the OIT group had significantly increased from baseline after 1 month. The adverse reaction rate per ingestion was 43% in hospital and 5% at home. Three patients received adrenaline at the hospital and 2 at home. Conclusions: These data suggest that for patients with peanut anaphylaxis, OIT can increase the threshold and support achieving sustained unresponsiveness with relative safety.
Recent Advances and Future Opportunities to Address Challenges in Offloading Diabetic Feet: A Mini-Review
Authors: Crews Ryan T. , King Abagayle L. , Yalla Sai V. , Rosenblatt Noah J.
Published: January 2018

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) are a substantial dilemma for geriatric individuals with diabetes. The breakdown in tissue associated with DFU is typically a result of repetitive cycles of physical stress placed on the feet during weight-bearing activity. Accordingly, a key tenet in healing as well as preventing DFU is the use of offloading footwear to redistribute physical stress away from high stress locations such as bony prominences. Over the last several years there has been a substantial amount of effort directed at better understanding and implementing the practice of offloading. A review of this work as well as relevant technological advances is presented in this paper. Specifically, we will discuss the following topics in association with offloading diabetic feet: achieving optimal offloading, dosing activity/physical stress, thermal monitoring to detect preulcerative tissue damage, adherence with offloading devices, and optimizing the user experience. In addition to presenting progress to date, potential directions for further advancement are discussed.
Alma migrante
Authors: Montagna Plinio
Published: January 2018

Drawing on the word "soul", used originally in the work of Freud, this article discusses human migration in its intra-psychic and interpsychic components, identity-related aspects and the anxiety brought about in a potentially traumatic process which can lead to experiences of depersonalization and derealization. Migrations give rise to the need for elaborating mourning. Psychological resilience means being able to return to the way of being in another space. Besides Sigmund Freud, this article also relies on contributions from important authors on psychoanalysis, such as Melanie Klein, Wilfred Bion, John Wisdom, Leon Grinberg and Rebecca Grinberg, Nicole Berry, Salmon Akhtar.
Combates à xenofobia, ao racismo e à intolerância
Authors: Farah Paulo Daniel
Published: January 2018

In a scenario of increasing xenophobia, racism, discrimination and anti-immigrant and anti-refugee generalizations, questionings have been recurrently raised about how to change this picture and about the role of the Global South. Here we analyze judicialization initiatives against people who incite to hatred and violence; and actions for education, awareness/ humanization, promoted by the Bibli-Aspa, a center for research, education, culture and social actions, which features migrations and refugees among its main focus areas. Among others, there are educational programs for Portuguese language and Brazilian culture, Arabic language and culture, French and African, Arabic or Haitian culture; English and African or Arabic culture; Spanish and South-American culture, Haitian Creole, History, literature, archaeology, cooking and handicraft.
A novela de cavalaria portuguesa (Achega bibliográfica)
Authors: Moisés Massaud
Published: January 2018

Já constitui lugar comum dizer que a Idade Média portuguê-sa conheceu intimamente a matéria arturiana, expressa na "De-manda do Santo Graal", "Arimatéia", "Merlim" e "Amadis de Gau-la". Pelo menos são essas as notícias que possuímos. Se se conhe-ceram outras novelas — e não seria de estranhar — apenas pode-mos fazer conjecturas à vista do rico material novelístico que àque-la altura a França mandava além fronteiras e pelos vestígios en-contrados na literatura medieval portuguêsa.