bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimal coordination of voltage controllable devices in distribution systems using power‐based models and quadratic programming
Authors: Van Dao Tu , Chaitusaney Surachai , Hayashi Yasuhiro , Ishii Hideo
Published: June 2017

The incorporation of photovoltaic (PV) inverters makes the management of voltage difficult for power system operators. One solution is to consider these inverter‐based devices as controllable reactive power (VAr) sources and to coordinate them with other voltage regulating devices in the distribution system. This paper proposes some acceptable approximations to quickly formulate and solve a mixed‐integer quadratic programming problem to periodically determine the optimal voltage coordination of a load tap changer, voltage regulators, capacitor banks, and PVs on a smart grid platform. The solution to the optimization problem is aided by an iteration‐based algorithm. By using the MATLAB software to carry out the simulation and computation, the method is well verified by comparing its generated result with a trustworthy solution obtained from examining all possible coordinating combinations of voltage regulating devices and PVs in a modified IEEE 34‐bus system. The effectiveness and features of the method are clearly illustrated on that test system by considering a time‐varying load and PV generation. The obtained results demonstrate the practical application of this work to medium‐voltage systems. © 2017 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Multi‐command SSAEP‐based BCI system with training sessions for SSVEP during an eye fatigue state
Authors: Punsawad Yunyong , Wongsawat Yodchanan
Published: June 2017

This paper proposes a steady‐state auditory stimulus modality and a detection algorithm to replace steady‐state visual evoked potential (SSVEP)‐based brain–computer interface (BCI) systems during visual fatigue periods. The optimal speaker position for the steady‐state auditory evoked potential (SSAEP)‐based BCI system and possible electrode positions are investigated. Using the proposed system, an accuracy of 85% for two commands was achieved based on the T3–T5 and T4–T6 electrode positions using only one speaker. SSAEP is a promising BCI modality for mitigating the problem of eye fatigue that often occurs during the use of SSVEP‐based BCI systems. However, SSAEP‐based BCI systems suffer from low accuracy. To increase accuracy, we propose a new enhanced SSAEP training method. The training process was enhanced by instructing users to control their attention levels while simultaneously detecting an auditory stimulus frequency. Furthermore, we propose a corresponding single‐frequency, multi‐command BCI paradigm for the proposed training method. With the proposed paradigm, four commands can be detected using only one auditory stimulus frequency. The proposed training system yielded an accuracy of ∼81% compared to 66% for sessions performed without the proposed training method. © 2017 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Mobile navigation services with augmented reality
Authors: Chu Chung‐Hua , Wang Shu‐Lin , Tseng Bi‐Chi
Published: June 2017

In this study, we combine augmented reality (AR) with the technique of assisted global positioning system to construct a guiding system of AR and design the guiding graphs metaphorically, so that the system interface operation is used more intuitively. We further investigate the availability of the system, and present an empirical study to statistically show that the guiding system of AR significantly outperforms that of plane map in terms of the finishing time of mission and correctness. Finally, according to the results of questionnaire of the system availability, we induct six essential factors influencing the guiding system availability of AR, namely guiding service usability factor, user esthetics of design factor, guiding service technique factor, guiding service creativity factor, guiding service entertainment factor, and guiding service practicality factor. The results of the study could be extended to other related studies. In terms of task completion time and accuracy rate, AR navigation is obviously better than the two plane map navigation modes. The users can find the direction of the destination within 7 s on average, and the accuracy rate is as high as 97.73%. © 2017 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
ADRC‐based transient air/fuel ratio control with time‐varying transport delay consideration for gasoline engines
Authors: Wang Zhijing , Jiao Xiaohong
Published: June 2017

This paper presents a fuel injection controller based on the modified active disturbance rejection control (ADRC) algorithm to maintain the air/fuel ratio (AFR) at the stoichiometric value in the presence of a transport time delay. The factors affecting the dynamics of the AFR include the variations of the intake manifold pressure, engine speed, and load torque, as well as uncertain parameters existing in the fuel film evaporation and the oxygen sensor aging, which are viewed as the 'total disturbance' to the AFR system and estimated by the extended state observer (ESO). Thus, based on the Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional stability theory, the ADRC fuel injection controller is designed with the gain matrices of the controller and observer and solved by employing linear matrix inequalities. Considering the time‐varying transport delay, a time delay block is added to the ESO. By synchronizing the input signals of the ESO, the performance in terms of the timely compensation for the disturbance is improved. The effectiveness of the proposed control strategy is validated through simulation of a V6 spark ignition engine model developed by the Society of Instrument and Control Engineers (SICE) Research Committee on Advanced Powertrain Control Theory. © 2017 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Choledochal Malformation in Children: Lessons Learned from a Dutch National Study
Authors:   Nederlandse Studiegroep voor Choledochus Cysten/malformaties (NeSCHoC), van den Eijnden Maria. H. A. , de Kleine Ruben H. J. , de Blaauw Ivo , Peeters Paul G. J. M. , Koot Bart P. G. , Oomen Matthijs W. N. , Sloots Cornelius E. J. , van Gemert W. G. , van der Zee David C. , van Heurn L. W. E. , Verkade Henkjan J. , Wilde Jim C. H. , Hulscher Jan B. F.
Published: June 2017

Introduction

A choledochal malformation (CM) is a rare entity, especially in the Western world. We aimed to determine the incidence of CM in the Netherlands and the outcome of surgery for CM in childhood.

Methods

All pediatric patients who underwent a surgical procedure for type I–IV CM between 1989 and 2014 were entered into the Netherlands Study group on choledochal cyst/malformation. Patients with type V CM were excluded from the present analysis. Symptoms, surgical details, short‐term (<30 days) and long‐term (>30 days) complications were studied retrospectively.

Results

Between January 1989 and December 2014, 91 pediatric patients underwent surgery for CM at a median age of 2.1 years (0.0–17.7 years). All patients underwent resection of the extrahepatic biliary tree with restoration of the continuity via Roux‐en‐Y hepaticojejunostomy. Twelve patients (12%) were operated laparoscopically. Short‐term complications, mainly biliary leakage and cholangitis, occurred in 20 patients (22%), without significant correlations with weight or age at surgery or surgical approach. Long‐term postoperative complications were mainly cholangitis (13%) and anastomotic stricture (4%). Eight patients (9%) required radiological intervention or additional surgery. Surgery before 1 year of age (OR 9.3) and laparoscopic surgery (OR 4.4) were associated with more postoperative long‐term complications. We did not observe biliary malignancies during treatment or follow‐up.

Conclusion

Surgery for CM carries a significant short‐ and long‐term morbidity. Given the low incidence, we would suggest that (laparoscopic) hepatobiliary surgery for CM should be performed in specialized pediatric surgical centers with a wide experience in laparoscopy and hepatobiliary surgery.
Chemical Composition and Sensory Quality of Tunisian ‘Sayali’ Virgin Olive Oils as Affected by Fruit Ripening: Toward an Appropriate Harvesting Time
Authors: Nsir Houda , Taamalli Amani , Valli Enrico , Bendini Alessandra , Gallina Toschi Tullia , Zarrouk Mokhtar
Published: June 2017

Herein, the influence of the ripeness of Tunisian Sayali olives on the chemical composition and sensory quality of virgin olive oils have been investigated, with a particular focus on minor metabolites. Towards this end, five samples (S1–S5) were produced from fruits at increasing stages of maturity and then analyzed. Quality indices (free acidity, peroxide value, specific extinction in UV, sensory characteristics) and composition in major (fatty acids) and minor compounds (squalene, pigments, tocopherols, phenolic compounds, volatile compounds), as well as oxidative stability, were evaluated. Significant variations for the most analytical parameters of Sayali samples were demonstrated, highlighting the impact of stage of ripening. In particular, at later stages of ripening a decreased tendency was seen in minor compounds that are able to inhibit lipid oxidation (tocopherols, carotenoids, squalene and polar phenolic compounds) and, as a consequence, in the oxidative stability value. Moreover, a higher intensity of positive sensory notes (fruity, bitter and pungent) characteristic of extra virgin olive oil were found for samples produced with less ripe olives. Finally, a deeper knowledge of the influence of this factor would be helpful to correctly manage the optimal fruit harvesting time for producers for this variety and to improve the marketing of extra virgin olive oils by using a promising secondary variety (with a high oxidative stability and an interesting fatty acid composition).
Computational fluid dynamics model of rhythmic motion of charged droplets between parallel electrodes
Authors: Flittner Rudolf , Přibyl Michal
Published: June 2017

A mathematical model of rhythmic motion of a charged droplet between two parallel electrodes is developed in this study. The work is motivated by recent experimental findings that report oscillatory behaviour of water in oil droplets under a direct current electric field. The model considers the presence of a charged droplet placed in a dielectric medium. The droplet is immediately attracted to the electrode with the opposite polarity. When approaching the electrode, the electric charge is electrochemically reversed within the droplet, which is then repelled to the other electrode. The entire process can periodically repeat. The model is able to track a deformable liquid–liquid interface, the dynamics of the wetting process at the electrodes and the dynamics of electrochemical charge transfer between the droplet and the electrodes. The dependences of the oscillation frequency, charge acquired by the droplet and charging time on several model parameters (surface charge density on electrodes, kinetic parameter of charging, droplet–electrode contact angle, droplet size, liquid permittivity) are examined. Qualitative agreement of the model predictions with available experimental data is obtained, e.g. the oscillation frequency increases with growing electric field strength or droplet size. Our model represents the first successful attempt to predict oscillatory motion of aqueous droplets by a pseudo-three-dimensional two-phase approach. Our model also strongly supports the theory that the oscillatory motion relies on the combination of electrochemical charge injection at the electrodes and electrostatic attraction/repulsion processes.
A local scattering approach for the effects of abrupt changes on boundary-layer instability and transition: a finite-Reynolds-number formulation for isolated distortions
Authors: Huang Zhangfeng , Wu Xuesong
Published: June 2017

We investigate the influence of abrupt changes on boundary-layer instability and transition. Such changes can take different forms including a local porous wall, suction/injection and surface roughness as well as junctions between rigid and porous walls. They may modify the boundary conditions and/or the mean flow, and their effects on transition have usually been assessed by performing stability analysis for the modified base flow and/or boundary conditions. However, such a conventional local linear stability theory (LST) becomes invalid if the change occurs over a relatively short scale comparable with, or even shorter than, the characteristic wavelength of the instability. In this case, the influence on transition is through scattering with the abrupt change acting as a local scatter, that is, an instability mode propagating through the region of abrupt change is scattered by the strong streamwise inhomogeneity to acquire a different amplitude. A local scattering approach (LSA) should be formulated instead, in which a transmission coefficient, defined as the ratio of the amplitude of the instability wave after the scatter to that before, is introduced to characterize the effect on instability and transition. In the present study, we present a finite-Reynolds-number formulation of LSA for isolated changes including a rigid plate interspersed by a local porous panel and a wall suction through a narrow slot. When the weak non-parallelism of the unperturbed base flow is ignored, the local scattering problem can be cast as an eigenvalue problem, in which the transmission coefficient appears as the eigenvalue. We also improved the method to take into account the non-parallelism of the unperturbed base flow, where it is found that the weak non-parallelism has a rather minor effect. The general formulation is specialized to two-dimensional Tollmien–Schlichting (T–S) waves. The resulting eigenvalue problem is solved, and full direct numerical simulations (DNS) are performed to verify some of the predictions by LSA. A parametric study indicates that conventional LST is valid only when the change is sufficiently gradual, and becomes either inaccurate or invalid when the scale of the local distortion is short. A local porous panel enhances T–S waves, while a local suction with a moderate mass flux significantly inhibits T–S waves. In the latter case, a comprehensive comparison is made between the theoretical predictions and experimental data, and a satisfactory quantitative agreement was observed.
Absolute Dating of the Gihon Spring Fortifications, Jerusalem
Authors: Regev Johanna , Uziel Joe , Szanton Nahshon , Boaretto Elisabetta
Published: June 2017

One of the most impressive structures in Jerusalem’s ancient landscape is the tower that was built to surround and protect the Gihon Spring, Jerusalem’s perennial water source. The structure, first discovered by Reich and Shukron (2004), encompasses the cave in which the spring sprouts from, with walls 7 m thick built of large boulders. The Spring Tower, along with the other features relating to it, were all attributed to the Middle Bronze Age II, based on their architectural and stratigraphical relationship, the type of architecture, and the pottery found. In the continued excavations carried out by the Israel Antiquities Authority along the outer, eastern face of the Spring Tower, it was noted that at least the northeast side of the tower was not built on bedrock, but rather on layers of sediment, which were sealed by the massive boulders at the base of the tower. In order to provide an absolute dating for the structure, two sections were sampled for radiocarbon (14C) dating beneath the foundation stones at two locations. Scenarios for the construction of the tower during Middle Bronze Age (MB) and Iron Age II are considered, based on the new14C data, yielding a series of dates, the latest of which falls in the terminal phases of the 9th century BCE, alongside previous excavation data.
Isotopic Evidence for Environmental Adaptation in Medieval Iin Hamina, Northern Finland
Authors: Lahtinen Maria
Published: June 2017

This study investigates human environmental adaptation in northern Finland at the cemetery of Iin Hamina. The cemetery was in use in the 15th and 16th centuries AD during the cool climate anomaly called the Little Ice Age. It is possible that these extreme climatic conditions may have impacted human survival in this agriculturally marginal region. In previous studies, carbon and nitrogen isotopes in the bone collagen of humans and fauna have shown that the main protein source for people at Iin Hamina was fish. In this study, I observe annual changes in diet derived from isotopic studies of teeth. Apart from one individual whose protein source shifted radically during tooth formation, the results show the inhabitants of Iin Hamina experienced only minor changes in diet over periods of several years. Moreover, none of the dietary profiles provided evidence of dietary or physiological stress through raised nitrogen isotope ratios. The results indicate that the individuals in this study appear to have been well-adapted to their environment.
Waist circumference as a predictor of mortality in peritoneal dialysis patients: a follow-up study of 48 months
Authors: Castro Ana Catarina M. , Bazanelli Ana Paula , Nerbass Fabiana B. , Cuppari Lilian , Kamimura Maria A.
Published: June 2017

Body-fat gain is a common finding among peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients, and the accumulation of adipose tissue occurs predominantly in the abdominal area. Waist circumference (WC) is a reliable marker of abdominal obesity and its association with worse outcomes has been demonstrated in non-dialysis and haemodialysis patients. We aimed at investigating whether WC measurements as well as the changes over time in WC were able to predict mortality in PD patients. This prospective study included 109 patients undergoing PD (57 % male, age 52 (sd16) years, 32 % diabetics, 48 % BMI≥25 kg/m2). WC was measured at the umbilicus level (empty abdominal cavity), and values >88 cm for women and >102 cm for men were considered high. Nutritional status and laboratory parameters were also evaluated. WC was measured at baseline and after 6 months, and mortality was registered during a period of 48 months. High WC was observed in 55 % of women and in 23 % of men at baseline. After 6 months, 61 % of the patients showed an increased WC. At the end of the study, twenty-seven deaths were registered. A significant increase in WC was observed only in the non-survivor group. In the Cox regression analysis adjusting for sex, age, duration on dialysis, diabetes, BMI, serum albumin and C-reactive protein, high WC at baseline as well as the 6-month increase in WC were independently associated with mortality. This study demonstrated that a high WC and the increase over time in WC were both predictors of mortality in PD patients.
Selenium supplementation affects the retention of stable isotopes of selenium in human subjects consuming diets low in selenium
Authors: Finley John W. , Duffield Anna , Ha Pengcheng , Vanderpool Richard A. , Thomson Christine D.
Published: June 2017

Twenty-nine women and fifteen men from an area of low Se intake (South Island of New Zealand) consumed 100 μg stable74Se, as selenate given in water after an overnight fast, and blood was collected for 3 weeks. They were then divided into five groups and supplemented with 0, 10, 20, 30 and 40 μg Se/d (as selenomethionine) for 5 months. After 5 months, they received a second dose of74Se identical to the first. Supplementation significantly altered retention of74Se in the plasma, but not in the erythrocytes or platelets. Subjects receiving the placebo retained the greatest amount, and subjects receiving 30 μg supplemental Se/d retained the least74Se. Supplementation resulted in relatively more isotope being retained in a medium molecular mass protein considered to be albumin, and relatively less in another fraction considered to be selenoprotein P. The lack of many observed changes in retention of stable Se, and the shift in retention among the plasma proteins, suggests that supplemental Se was not being used to replete critical pools of Se, probably because of adaptation to low Se intake.
RELIABILITY OF NDVI DERIVED BY HIGH RESOLUTION SATELLITE AND UAV COMPARED TO IN-FIELD METHODS FOR THE EVALUATION OF EARLY CROP N STATUS AND GRAIN YIELD IN WHEAT
Authors: BENINCASA PAOLO , ANTOGNELLI SARA , BRUNETTI LUCA , FABBRI CARLO ALBERTO , NATALE ANTONIO , SARTORETTI VELIA , MODEO GIANLUCA , GUIDUCCI MARCELLO , TEI FRANCESCO , VIZZARI MARCO
Published: June 2017

This study was aimed at comparing in-field parameters and remote sensing NDVI (normalized difference vegetation index) by both satellite (SAT) and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) for the assessment of early nitrogen (N) status and prediction of yield in winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Six increasing N rates, i.e., 0, 40, 80, 120, 160, 200 kg N ha−1 were applied, half at tillering and half at shooting. Thus, when the crop N status was monitored between the two N applications, consecutive N treatments differentiated from each other by just 20 kg N ha−1. The following in-field and remote sensed parameters were compared as indicators of crop vegetative and N status: plant N% (w:w) concentration; crop N uptake (Nupt); ratio between transmitted and incident photosynthetically active radiation (PARt/PARi); leaf SPAD values, an indirect index for chlorophyll content; SAT and UAV derived NDVI. As reliable indicators of wheat N availability, in-field parameters were ranked as follows: PARt/PARi ≅ Nupt > SPAD ≅ N%. The PARt/PARi, Nupt and SPAD resulted quite strongly correlated to each other. At all crop stages, the NDVI was strongly correlated with PARt/PARi and Nupt. It is of relevance that NDVI correlated quite strongly to in-field parameters and grain yield at shooting, i.e., before the second N application, when the N rate can still be adjusted. The SAT and UAV NDVIs were strongly correlated to each other, which means they can be used alternatively depending on the context.
Fine mapping by composite genome-wide association analysis
Authors: CASELLAS JOAQUIM , CAÑAS-ÁLVAREZ JHON JACOBO , FINA MARTA , PIEDRAFITA JESÚS , CECCHINATO ALESSIO
Published: June 2017

Genome-wide association (GWA) studies play a key role in current genetics research, unravelling genomic regions linked to phenotypic traits of interest in multiple species. Nevertheless, the extent of linkage disequilibrium (LD) may provide confounding results when significant genetic markers span along several contiguous cM. In this study, we have adapted the composite interval mapping approach to the GWA framework (composite GWA), in order to evaluate the impact of including competing (possibly linked) genetic markers when testing for the additive allelic effect inherent to a given genetic marker. We tested model performance on simulated data sets under different scenarios (i.e., qualitative trait loci effects, LD between genetic markers and width of the genomic region involved in the analysis). Our results showed that the genomic region had a small impact on the number of competing single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) as well as on the precision of the composite GWA analysis. A similar conclusion was derived from the preferable range of LD between the tested SNP and competing SNPs, although moderate-to-high LD seemed to attenuate the loss of statistical power. The composite GWA improved specificity and reduced the number of significant genetic markers. The composite GWA model contributes a novel point of view for GWA analyses where testing circumscribed to the genomic region flanking each SNP (delimited by the nearest competing SNPs) and conditioning on linked markers increases the precision to locate causal mutations, but possibly at the expense of power.
The Jurassic–Early Cretaceous basalt–chert association in the ophiolites of the Ankara Mélange, east of Ankara, Turkey: age and geochemistry
Authors: BORTOLOTTI VALERIO , CHIARI MARCO , GÖNCÜOGLU M. CEMAL , PRINCIPI GIANFRANCO , SACCANI EMILIO , TEKIN U. KAGAN , TASSINARI RENZO
Published: June 2017

This study is focused on slide blocks including oceanic lavas associated with pelagic sediments within the eastern part of the Ankara Mélange. A detailed petrological characterization of the volcanic rocks and a detailed biochronological investigation of the associated radiolarian cherts in eight sections (east of Ankara) was carried out. The volcanic rocks are largely represented by basalts and minor ferrobasalts and trachytes. They show different geochemical affinities and overlapping ages including: (a) Late Jurassic – Early Cretaceous garnet-influenced MORB (middle late Oxfordian to late Kimmeridgian–early Tithonian and early–early late Tithonian; late Valanginian–early Barremian); (b) Early Cretaceous enriched-MORB (middle late Barremian–early early Aptian; Valanginian to middle Aptian–early Albian); (c) Middle Jurassic plume-type MORB (early–middle Bajocian to late Bathonian–early Callovian); (d) Late Jurassic – Early Cretaceous alkaline basalts (middle–late Oxfordian to late Kimmeridgian–early Tithonian; late Valanginian to late Hauterivian). All rock types show a clear garnet signature, as testified to by their high MREE/HREE (middle rare earth element/heavy rare earth element) ratios. The coexistence of chemically different rock types from Middle Jurassic to Early Cretaceous times suggests that they were formed in a mid-ocean ridge setting from partial melting of a highly heterogeneous mantle characterized by the extensive occurrence of OIB-metasomatized portions, which were likely inherited from Triassic mantle plume activity associated with the continental rift and opening of the Neotethys branch.
Frank O'Hara in Transit
Authors: REVELY-CALDER CAL
Published: June 2017

The poetry of Frank O'Hara (1926–66) takes place in the routes of New York City, both above and below the ground. This essay looks at the characteristics of his poetic lines, and some of the ways they invest themselves in each other, interacting complexly through rhymes and line breaks that we may struggle to negotiate. Then, broadening outwards to consider urban topographies and the experience of inhabiting the avenues of Manhattan, it discusses how the lines of a poem might relate to the lines of a subway system or street grid, and considers how O'Hara's poetry opens our attention, and our generosity, to the aspects of a cityscape that we habitually overlook.
Gyrokinetic continuum simulation of turbulence in a straight open-field-line plasma
Authors: Shi E. L. , Hammett G. W. , Stoltzfus-Dueck T. , Hakim A.
Published: June 2017

Five-dimensional gyrokinetic continuum simulations of electrostatic plasma turbulence in a straight, open-field-line geometry have been performed using a full-$f$discontinuous-Galerkin approach implemented in the Gkeyll code. While various simplifications have been used for now, such as long-wavelength approximations in the gyrokinetic Poisson equation and the Hamiltonian, these simulations include the basic elements of a fusion-device scrape-off layer: localised sources to model plasma outflow from the core, cross-field turbulent transport, parallel flow along magnetic field lines, and parallel losses at the limiter or divertor with sheath-model boundary conditions. The set of sheath-model boundary conditions used in the model allows currents to flow through the walls. In addition to details of the numerical approach, results from numerical simulations of turbulence in the Large Plasma Device, a linear device featuring straight magnetic field lines, are presented.
Long-read sequencing improves assembly of Trichinella genomes 10-fold, revealing substantial synteny between lineages diverged over 7 million years
Authors: THOMPSON PETER C. , ZARLENGA DANTE S. , LIU MING-YUAN , ROSENTHAL BENJAMIN M.
Published: June 2017

Genome assemblies can form the basis of comparative analyses fostering insight into the evolutionary genetics of a parasite's pathogenicity, host–pathogen interactions, environmental constraints and invasion biology; however, the length and complexity of many parasite genomes has hampered the development of well-resolved assemblies. In order to improve Trichinella genome assemblies, the genome of the sylvatic encapsulated species Trichinella murrelli was sequenced using third-generation, long-read technology and, using syntenic comparisons, scaffolded to a reference genome assembly of Trichinella spiralis, markedly improving both. A high-quality draft assembly for T. murrelli was achieved that totalled 63·2 Mbp, half of which was condensed into 26 contigs each longer than 571 000 bp. When compared with previous assemblies for parasites in the genus, ours required 10-fold fewer contigs, which were five times longer, on average. Better assembly across repetitive regions also enabled resolution of 8 Mbp of previously indeterminate sequence. Furthermore, syntenic comparisons identified widespread scaffold misassemblies in the T. spiralis reference genome. The two new assemblies, organized for the first time into three chromosomal scaffolds, will be valuable resources for future studies linking phenotypic traits within each species to their underlying genetic bases.
The role of rare innate immune cells in Type 2 immune activation against parasitic helminths
Authors: WEBB LAUREN M. , TAIT WOJNO ELIA D.
Published: June 2017

The complexity of helminth macroparasites is reflected in the intricate network of host cell types that participate in the Type 2 immune response needed to battle these organisms. In this context, adaptive T helper 2 cells and the Type 2 cytokines interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, IL-9 and IL-13 have been the focus of research for years, but recent work has demonstrated that the innate immune system plays an essential role. Some innate immune cells that promote Type 2 immunity are relatively abundant, such as macrophages and eosinophils. However, we now appreciate that more rare cell types including group 2 innate lymphoid cells, basophils, mast cells and dendritic cells make significant contributions to these responses. These cells are found at low frequency but they are specialized to their roles – located at sites such as the skin, lung and gut, where the host combats helminth parasites. These cells respond rapidly and robustly to worm antigens and worm-induced damage to produce essential cytokines, chemokines, eicosanoids and histamine to activate damaged epithelium and to recruit other effectors. Thus, a greater understanding of how these cells operate is essential to understand how the host protects itself during helminth infection.
Anti-parasitic effect of the diuretic and Na+-ATPAse inhibitor furosemide in cutaneous leishmaniasis
Authors: ARRUDA-COSTA N. , ESCRIVANI D. , ALMEIDA-AMARAL E. E. , MEYER-FERNANDES J. R. , ROSSI-BERGMANN B.
Published: June 2017

Leishmania amazonensispromastigotes are known to express furosemide (Lasix®)-sensitiveP-type membrane Na+-ATPase. In the present study, furosemide activity was studied in intracellular amastigotes and infected BALB/c mice to investigate its efficacy in cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL). Intracellular parasites, but not macrophages, were found to be sensitive to killing by furosemide (IC50= 87µmvsCC50≫ 1000µm, respectively). Although furosemide did not induce nitric oxide production or intracellular pH changes in infected macrophages, it led to a significant reactive oxygen species (ROS) burst. Freshly isolated tissue parasites expressed a high degree of Na+-ATPase activity that decreased with culture, indicative of a higher enzyme expression in amastigotes than in promastigotes. Both intraperitoneal and oral treatment ofL. amazonensis-infected mice with furosemide dosages equivalent to that prescribed as a diuretic significantly reduced the parasite's growth compared with the situation in untreated mice. Combination with oral furosemide increased the efficacy and safety of intraperitoneal treatment with sodium stibogluconate (SSG). To summarize, furosemide control of intracellular leishmanial growth by means of parasite Na+-ATPase inhibition, and macrophage ROS activation may help explain its sole and SSG-combined therapeutic effect against murine CL.
Trichomonas tenax and periodontal diseases: a concise review
Authors: MARTY MATHIEU , LEMAITRE MATHIEU , KÉMOUN PHILIPPE , MORRIER JEAN-JACQUES , MONSARRAT PAUL
Published: June 2017

Periodontal diseases (gingivitis and periodontitis), result from a disruption of the host–oral microbiome homoeostasis. Whereas the pathological role of some specific bacterial strains during periodontal diseases is well documented, the impact of parasites in periodontium pathophysiology is still under debate. This review aims to collect data about the prevalence and the potential role of Trichomonas tenax during periodontal diseases. Data from 47 studies revealed that T. tenax prevalence in diseased periodontium ranged from 0 to 94·1%. The prevalence of oral protozoan infections was found to be largely greater in patients with periodontal diseases than with healthy periodontium. The parasite detection was mainly performed by direct microscopy. Trichomonas tenax presence was clearly correlated with periodontal disease. The high heterogeneity of its periodontal prevalence may be correlated with the diversity of the population screened (age, sex, systemic diseases), and the methods used for diagnosis. This protozoan seems to have the capacity to be involved in the inflammatory process of gum disease. Animal experimentation, using relevant physiopathological models of periodontitis, needs to be performed to investigate the ability of T. tenax to cause and/or worsen the disease. Further investigations using standardized experimental designs of epidemiologic studies are also needed.
Demodex canis regulates cholinergic system mediated immunosuppressive pathways in canine demodicosis
Authors: KUMARI P. , NIGAM R. , SINGH A. , NAKADE U. P. , SHARMA A. , GARG S. K. , SINGH S. K.
Published: June 2017

Demodex canis infestation in dogs remains one of the main challenges in veterinary dermatology. The exact pathogenesis of canine demodicosis is unknown but an aberration in immune status is considered very significant. No studies have underpinned the nexus between induction of demodicosis and neural immunosuppressive pathways so far. We have evaluated the involvement of cholinergic pathways in association with cytokines regulation as an insight into the immuno-pathogenesis of canine demodicosis in the present study. Remarkable elevations in circulatory immunosuppressive cytokine interleukin-10 and cholinesterase activity were observed in dogs with demodicosis. Simultaneously, remarkable reduction in circulatory pro-inflammatory cytokine tumour necrosis factor-alpha level was observed in dogs with demodicosis. Findings of the present study evidently suggest that Demodex mites might be affecting the cholinergic pathways to induce immunosuppression in their host and then proliferate incessantly in skin microenvironment to cause demodicosis.
Meta-analysis of longitudinal studies of cognition in bipolar disorder: comparison with healthy controls and schizophrenia
Authors: Bora E. , Özerdem A.
Published: June 2017

Background

Bipolar disorder (BP) is associated with significant cognitive impairment. Recent evidence suggests that cognitive deficits are already evident after first-episode mania. However, it is not clear whether BP is associated with further decline in cognitive functions in individuals with established illness. Aim of this meta-analytic review was to examine longitudinal neurocognitive changes in BP and to compare trajectory of cognitive deficits in BP with schizophrenia and healthy controls.

Methods

Electronic databases were searched for the studies published between January 1987 and November 2016. In total 22 reports were included in the current meta-analysis. The main analysis assessed the longitudinal change in cognition in 643 patients with BP. Further analyses were conducted in studies investigating cognitive changes in BP along with healthy controls (459 BP and 367 healthy controls) and schizophrenia (172 BP and 168 schizophrenia).

Results

There was no cognitive decline overtime neither in short-term (mean duration = 1.5 years) nor in long-term (mean duration = 5.5 years) follow-up studies in BP. In contrast, there was evidence for modest improvements in task performance in memory and working memory at follow-up. The trajectory of cognitive functioning in BP was not significantly different from changes in schizophrenia and healthy controls.

Conclusions

Together with the findings in early BP and individuals at genetic risk for BP, current findings suggest that neurodevelopmental factors might play a significant role in cognitive deficits in BP and do not support the notion of progressive cognitive decline in most patients with BP.
Patterns of biogenic weathering as indicators of palaeoclimates in Israel
Authors: Danin Avinoam
Published: June 2017

Synopsis

Massive calcareous rocks and stones support lithobiont communities of bacteria, fungi, cyanobacteria, lichens, and phanerogams in most parts of Israel. The distribution of these communities is influenced by environmental conditions. Moisture regime of their substratum is the most important factor. Many of the lithobiont communities cause typical patterns of weathering that may be preserved on the rock surface or inside the rock for thousands of years. Knowing the climatic affinities of the lithobiont communities, one can use the uncoveredin siturocks and stones and those that were buried in the past as fossil climate recorders. With this method, the following deductions have been made about palaeoclimates in our area: (i) the wettest period ended 30,000 years BP; (ii) a period drier than the present took place sometime between 10,000 and 30,000 years BP; (iii) the Neolithic Period (9,000–10,000 years BP) was much wetter than the present; (iv) since the Chalcolithic Period (5,000 to 6,000 years BP) the climate of Israel has been similar to that of the present.
Denis Burkitt and the origins of the dietary fibre hypothesis
Authors: Cummings John H. , Engineer Amanda
Published: June 2017

For more than 200 years the fibre in plant foods has been known by animal nutritionists to have significant effects on digestion. Its role in human nutrition began to be investigated towards the end of the 19th century. However, between 1966 and 1972, Denis Burkitt, a surgeon who had recently returned from Africa, brought together ideas from a range of disciplines together with observations from his own experience to propose a radical view of the role of fibre in human health. Burkitt came late to the fibre story but built on the work of three physicians (Peter Cleave, G. D. Campbell and Hugh Trowell), a surgeon (Neil Painter) and a biochemist (Alec Walker) to propose that diets low in fibre increase the risk of CHD, obesity, diabetes, dental caries, various vascular disorders and large bowel conditions such as cancer, appendicitis and diverticulosis. Simply grouping these diseases together as having a common cause was groundbreaking. Proposing fibre as the key stimulated much research but also controversy. Credit for the dietary fibre hypothesis is given largely to Burkitt who became known as the ‘Fibre Man’. This paper sets out the story of the development of the fibre hypothesis, and the contribution to it of these individuals.
The Importance of Being Human
Authors: McNaughton David
Published: June 2017

I wish from my Heart, I could avoid concluding, that since Morality, according to your Opinion as well as mine, is determin'd merely by Sentiment, it regards only human Nature & human Life. … If Morality were determin'd by Reason, that is the same to all rational Beings: But nothing but Experience can assure us, that the Sentiments are the same. What Experience have we with regard to superior Beings? How can we ascribe to them any Sentiments at all? They have implanted those Sentiments in us for the Conduct of Life like our bodily Sensations, which they possess not themselves. (Letter from Hume to Hutcheson: March 16, 1740)

When we ask whether morality ‘regards only human nature and human life’ we might be concerned with one of two kinds of question. We may be asking what kinds of being could share our moral point of view. What is the potential scope of the community of moral agents and assessors? Is the moral point of view essentially a human point of view? Could we, or should we, adopt a wider standpoint (say that of rational agency as such) which would leave room for a significant moral dialogue with non-human moral agents, if there are any? Alternatively, we could be asking whether only human beings should be the objects of moral concern or whether we should widen the circle of concern to include other kinds of being. We may make the same point using a helpful device of Cora Diamond's. We may be concerned with what should replace x or with what should replace y in the formula: We xs assess together conduct and character in so far as it affects ourselves and our fellow ys.
How Many Selves Make Me?
Authors: Wilkes Kathleen V.
Published: June 2017

The answer to the title question which I want to defend in this paper is ‘none’. That is: I doubt strongly that the notion of ‘a self’ has any use whatsoever as part of an explanans for the explanandum ‘person’.

Put another way: I shall argue that the question itself is misguided, pointing the inquirer in quite the wrong direction by suggesting that the term ‘self’ points to something which can sustain a philosophically interesting or important degree of reification.
Intensity-modulated radiation therapy versus volumetric-modulated arc therapy in non-small cell lung cancer: assessing the risk of radiation pneumonitis
Authors: Rosas Sara , Barbosa Bárbara , Couto José G.
Published: June 2017

Purpose

This study aimed to compare intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and volumetric-modulated arc therapy (VMAT) regarding plan quality and healthy lung sparing, in stage III non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients.

Materials and methods

The plans of 60 patients were allocated either to the IMRT (n=30) or the VMAT (n=30) group. The dose prescribed to the planning target volume (PTV) was evaluated at the 95% level and the mean lung dose (MLD) and the healthy lung receiving 5, 10 and 20 Gy (V5, V10and V20, respectively) were analysed. The normal tissue complication probability (NTCP) for radiation pneumonitis was calculated with the Lyman–Kutcher–Burman model.

Results

Both techniques achieved comparable results for target coverage (V95%=97·87 versus 97·18%,p>0·05) and homogeneity. The MLD (15·57 versus 16·98 Gy,p>0·05), V5(60·35 versus 67·25%,p>0·05) and V10(45·22 versus 53·14%,p=0·011) were lower for IMRT, whereas VMAT reduced V20(26·44 versus 25·90%,p>0·05). The NTCP for radiation pneumonitis was higher for VMAT, but no statistical significance was observed (11·07 versus 12·75,p>0·05).

Conclusion

Both techniques seemed suitable for NSCLC treatment, but IMRT presented better results regarding lung sparing thus being beneficial in reducing the risk of radiation-induced pneumonitis.
SOCIAL CITIZENSHIP AND SOCIAL RIGHTS IN AN AGE OF EXTREMES: T. H. MARSHALL'S SOCIAL PHILOSOPHY IN THELONGUE DURÉE
Authors: MOSES JULIA
Published: June 2017

This article demonstrates how T. H. Marshall's conceptualization of sociology—its subject, key questions and methodology—was embedded within broader moments in twentieth-century political history, including two world wars, the economic crisis of the interwar era, the onset of the Cold War and the rise of decolonization. In doing so, it brings intellectual history and the history of academic disciplines (particularly sociology) together with more recent trends in the historiography of twentieth-century Europe, including research on postwar democratization, reconstruction and the global spread of human rights discourses. Marshall was a sociological thinker in what Eric Hobsbawm has called the “age of extremes,” whose understanding of social citizenship not only played a role in theorizing the welfare state in postwar Britain, but also helped shape reconstruction within Europe and international development efforts following decolonization. In this respect, Marshall was part of a transnational and global movement to recast key concepts such as democracy, human rights and citizenship after the Second World War. This broader perspective illuminates how his work straddles traditions of pluralism and idealism, liberalism and social democracy, rather than being simply representative of any one of these schools of thought.
Propelled abrasive grit applications for weed management in transitional corn grain production
Authors: Erazo-Barradas Mauricio , Friedrichsen Claire N. , Forcella Frank , Humburg Dan , Clay Sharon A.
Published: June 2017

Weed control is challenging to farmers who are transitioning from production systems that use synthetic herbicides to organic systems. A 2-year field study examined air-propelled corncob grit abrasion for in-row weed control efficacy and effect on corn yield. Grit was applied based on corn vegetative developmental stages with one (V1, V3 or V5), two (V1 + V3, V1 + V5, or V3 + V5), or three (V1 + V3 + V5) applications. Flame-weeding or cultivation was used after the V5 application for between-row weed control. Grit applications decreased in-row weed densities by about 60% (α = 0.05) and biomass up to 95% (α = 0.001). Between-row treatments provided similar control, and reduced weed biomass by 55% in 2013 (α = 0.01) and 86% (α = 0.001) in 2014. In-row grit treatments increased corn yield up to 44%, and yield was more influenced by in-row weeds than between row weeds. These results indicate that abrasive corncob grit for in-row weed control, supplemented with cultivation or flaming, can reduce weed biomass substantially and help maintain corn yield. However, timing and frequency of grit application need further refinement based on weed growth as influenced by climate, as treatments at similar corn growth stages did not consistently provide adequate weed control between years.
A New Jurisprudential Framework for Jurisdiction: Beyond the Harvard Draft
Authors: Svantesson Dan Jerker B.
Published: June 2017

Eighty years ago, in 1935, a major step was taken in international law; the Harvard Research Draft Convention on Jurisdiction with Respect to Crime (“Harvard Draft”) was published in the American Journal of International Law. The influence of the Harvard Draft has been nothing but phenomenal and must surely have exceeded the drafters’ wildest ambitions. Indeed, it is fair to say that the structure put forward in the Harvard Draft has represented public international law’s approach to jurisdiction ever since.
Ius Constitutionale Commune en América Latina: Observations on Transformative Constitutionalism
Authors: von Bogdandy Armin
Published: June 2017

A new approach

Ius Constitutionale Commune en América Latina (ICCAL) constitutes a new approach to constitutionalism in the region. It has transformative aims and draws its energy from the perception of unacceptable conditions of a systematic nature. Like many legal concepts it refers both to positive law as a well as to the legal discourse connected to it. In terms of positive law, it is above all based upon the American Convention on Human Rights and other inter-American legal instruments, the concordant guarantees of national constitutions, the constitutional clauses opening up the domestic legal order to international law as well as pertinent national and international case law. In terms of legal discourse it is characterized by a disciplinary combination of national and international legal scholarship, a comparative mindset, and a methodological orientation towards principles.

The proponents of this approach set a stark accent on rights and the transformation of political and social realities but reject plebiscitary presidentialism and the centralization of power as a transformative strategy. Accordingly, the separation of powers and independent institutions are accorded great weight. ICCAL supports the regionally secured realization of the central promises of national constitutions, the embedding of the national legal orders in a larger context, and the transformation of society through law.