bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Formation of Social Rank in the Early Neolithic of Northern Europe
Authors: Nielsen Poul Otto , Sørensen Lasse
Published: January 2019

Klavs Randsborg has made important contributions to the archaeology of the Bronze Age and later prehistoric periods, but in the 1970s he also touched upon issues such as the formation of rank in Neolithic societies. In his article ‘Social Dimensions of Early Neolithic Denmark’, he suggested that a hierarchical society arose at the transition from the Early to Middle Neolithic, c. 3300-3200 BC. Since then, excavations and research have resulted in numerous publications about the Neolithic, but only rarely have these examined social development. In this article, the authors continue the debate, sharing the same starting point as Klavs Randsborg, but here approaching the question of emerging social inequality on the background of recent research into the early agricultural societies in Northern Europe, seen in a broader European context. The primary focus is upon burial monuments as manifestations of status and power, and parallels are drawn with similar construction activities amongst present-day farming communities in such remote areas as the islands of Southeast Asia. The social organisation and ritual customs of these modern farming communities are considered relevant when interpreting the archaeological evidence for early agricultural societies in Northern Europe.
Durable aluminate toughened zirconate composite thermal barrier coating (TBC) materials for high temperature operation
Authors: Schmitt Michael P. , Stokes Jamesa L. , Rai Amarendra K. , Schwartz Andrew J. , Wolfe Douglas E.
Published: January 2019

Research on advanced thermal barrier coating (TBC) materials capable of operating beyond 1200°C has primarily focused on the rare earth zirconate pyrochlores, particularly gadolinium zirconate (Gd2Zr2O7 – GZO). The drawback of this material is a significant reduction in durability due to a low fracture toughness. This study investigates utilization of a thermodynamically compatible gadolinia alumina perovskite (GdAlO3 – GAP) toughening phase to improve the durability of GZO. Dense pellets were fabricated to assess the material properties with minimal microstructural influence. Thermal stability, elastic modulus, hardness, indentation fracture resistance and erosion durability were evaluated for GZO, GAP, and composite pellets containing 10, 30, and 50 wt.% GAP. It was demonstrated that GAP and GZO are thermodynamically compatible through 1600°C and thus capable of operating well beyond the limits of traditional 7 wt.% yttria stabilized zirconia (YSZ). Grain sizes are maintained due to a lack of diffusion, and thus microstructural stability is enhanced. The GAP fracture toughness was shown to be over 2X that of GZO while exhibiting a lower elastic modulus and similar hardness. The 50:50 GZO‐GAP composite exhibited a 63% reduction in the absolute erosion rate, demonstrating the immense toughening capabilities of this system. The implications for composite TBCs utilizing this system are discussed, along with future work.
Bond theory, terahertz spectra, and dielectric studies in donor‐acceptor (Nb‐Al) substituted ZnTiNb2O8 system
Authors: Luo Weijia , Li Lingxia , Yu Shihui , Li Jining , Zhang Bowen , Qiao Jianli , Chen Siliang
Published: January 2019

As a donor and acceptor separately, Nb5+ and Al3+ are used to substitute Ti4+ in the ixiolite ZnTiNb2O8 system for the first time. The dielectric responses in the terahertz range of this system are initially studied based on the data from terahertz time‐domain transmitted spectroscopy. Combined with ligand field theory, the formation of a secondary phase of ZnAl2O4 is reasonably explicated. Then, the origins of the lower dielectric loss and the terahertz wave absorption coefficient are determined to be the high chemical bond covalency and effective phase control. For the composition of ZnTi0.85(Al0.5Nb0.5)0.15Nb2O8 sintered at 1180°C, a low dielectric loss (<5 × 10−3 @ 0.5 THz) and absorption coefficient (<10/cm @ 0.5 THz) are obtained, which make this kind of material propitious for developing terahertz dielectric devices.
N6‐methyladenosine demethylase FTO suppresses clear cell renal cell carcinoma through a novel FTO‐PGC‐1α signalling axis
Authors: Zhuang Changshui , Zhuang Chengle , Luo Xiaomin , Huang Xinbo , Yao Lv , Li Jianfa , Li Yawen , Xiong Tiefu , Ye Jing , Zhang Fangting , Gui Yaoting
Published: January 2019

The abundant and reversible N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) RNA modification and its modulators have important roles in regulating various gene expression and biological processes. Here, we demonstrate that fat mass and obesity associated (FTO), as an m6A demethylase, plays a critical anti‐tumorigenic role in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). FTO is suppressed in ccRCC tissue. The low expression of FTO in human ccRCC correlates with increased tumour severity and poor patient survival. The Von Hippel‐Lindau‐deficient cells expressing FTO restores mitochondrial activity, induces oxidative stress and ROS production and shows impaired tumour growth, through increasing expression of PGC‐1α by reducing m6A levels in its mRNA transcripts. Our work demonstrates the functional importance of the m6A methylation and its modulator, and uncovers a critical FTO‐PGC‐1α axis for developing effective therapeutic strategies in the treatment of ccRCC.
Influence of Maternal Obesity on Labor Induction: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Ellis Jessica A. , Brown Carolyn M. , Barger Brian , Carlson Nicole S.
Published: January 2019

Introduction

Studies have shown that women with obesity have longer labors. The purpose of this systematic review and meta‐analysis is to examine existing evidence regarding labor induction in women with obesity, including processes and outcomes. The primary outcome was cesarean birth following labor induction. Secondary outcomes were the timing and dosage of prostaglandins, the success of mechanical cervical ripening methods, and synthetic oxytocin dose and timing.

Methods

Searches were performed in PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, EBSCO, the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, the Database of Abstracts of Effects, Google Scholar, and ClinicalTrials.gov. Searches were limited to studies published in English after 1990. Ten studies published between 2009 and 2017 were included in this review. All were observational studies comparing processes and outcomes of induction of labor in relation to maternal body mass index. The primary outcome was cesarean birth following labor induction. We assessed heterogeneity using Cochran's Q test and tau‐squared and I2 statistics. We also calculated fixed‐effect models to estimate pooled relative risks and weighted mean differences.

Results

Ten cohort studies met inclusion criteria; 8 studies had data available for a meta‐analysis of the primary outcome. Cesarean birth was more common among women with obesity compared with women of normal weight following labor induction (Mantel‐Haenszel fixed‐effect odds ratio, 1.82; 95% CI, 1.55‐2.12; P < .001). Maternal obesity was associated with a longer time to birth, higher doses of prostaglandins, less frequent success of cervical ripening methods, and higher dose of synthetic oxytocin, as well as a longer time to birth after oxytocin use.

Discussion

Women with obesity are more likely than women with a normal weight to end labor induction with cesarean birth. Additionally, women with obesity require longer labor inductions involving larger, more frequent applications of both cervical ripening methods and synthetic oxytocin.
Functional MRI Task Comparison for Language Mapping in Neurosurgical Patients
Authors: Unadkat Prashin , Fumagalli Luca , Rigolo Laura , Vangel Mark G. , Young Geoffrey S. , Huang Raymond , Mukundan Srinivasan , Golby Alexandra , Tie Yanmei
Published: January 2019

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Language task‐based functional MRI (fMRI) is increasingly used for presurgical planning in patients with brain lesions. Different paradigms elicit activations of different components of the language network. The aim of this study is to optimize fMRI clinical usage by comparing the effectiveness of three language tasks for language lateralization and localization in a large group of patients with brain lesions.

METHODS

We analyzed fMRI data from a sequential retrospective cohort of 51 patients with brain lesions who underwent presurgical fMRI language mapping. We compared the effectiveness of three language tasks (Antonym Generation, Sentence Completion (SC), and Auditory Naming) for lateralizing language function and for activating cortex within patient‐specific regions‐of‐interest representing eloquent language areas, and assessed the degree of spatial overlap of the areas of activation elicited by each task.

RESULTS

The tasks were similarly effective for lateralizing language within the anterior language areas. The SC task produced higher laterality indices within the posterior language areas and had a significantly higher agreement with the clinical report. Dice coefficients between the task pairs were in the range of .351‐.458, confirming substantial variation in the components of the language network activated by each task.

CONCLUSIONS

SC task consistently produced large activations within the dominant hemisphere and was more effective for lateralizing language within the posterior language areas. The low degree of spatial overlap among the tasks strongly supports the practice of using a battery of tasks to help the surgeon to avoid eloquent language areas.
Just Like Global Firms: Unintended Gender Parity and Speculative Isomorphism in India's Elite Professions
Authors: Ballakrishnen Swethaa S.
Published: January 2019

Against most male-dominated accounts of professional work, elite law firms in India pose a puzzling exception: women make up about half of these firms, even at senior levels of partnership. Using in-depth interviews with over 130 professionals in India's elite litigation, transactional law, and consulting firms, this research suggests that elite law firms—as new local organizations—aggressively differentiate themselves from their more traditional peers to establish organizational legitimacy. At the same time, as institutions trying to mimic global firms without actual scripts for doing so, these firms engage in a form of “speculative isomorphism” through which they signal meritocracy and modernity to their global audience. Because equal gender representation is one such mechanism, the result is environments where certain kinds of women are uniquely advantaged.
Irony of Citizenship: Descent, National Belonging, and Constitutions in the Postcolonial African State
Authors: Ng'weno Bettina , Aloo L. Obura
Published: January 2019

In 2010, like many African countries since the 1990s, Kenya passed a new constitution. This constitution aimed to get rid of many past issues including the definition of citizenship. Globally, two general principles govern the acquisition of citizenship, descent from a citizen (jus sanguinis), and the fact of birth within a state territory (jus soli). In contrast to the prior Constitution that required both descent from Kenyan parents and birth in Kenya, the 2010 Constitution adopted a rule of citizenship by descent alone (jus sanguinis) from either parent. However, today Kenya is faced with a conundrum first articulated by Aristotle: how do you understand and operationalize citizenship by descent in a new state, or in the case of Kenya, one that has only just turned fifty? The crux of this conundrum is determining the basis of the citizenship of parents who precede the polity and therefore what they can transfer to their children. Understanding that articulations of citizenship are also systems of exclusion, this paper asks who can and cannot be a Kenyan citizen and why? What are the unintended consequences of efforts to escape Aristotle's conundrum?
SLA and the Study of Equitable Multilingualism
Authors: ORTEGA LOURDES
Published: January 2019

The Douglas Fir Group (2016) sought to articulate a transdisciplinary agenda for SLA but said little about multilingualism specifically. Moreover, many multilinguals are under siege in a worrisome world where threats to human difference have risen to the mainstream in the aftermath of Brexit and the 2016 U.S. presidential election. I argue that considering multilingualism as the central object of inquiry and embracing social justice as an explicit disciplinary goal are two moves necessary to provide sustainable support for the kind of transdisciplinary SLA that the Douglas Fir Group (2016) envisioned. I examine some missing pieces of the puzzle of transdisciplinary transformation that may make it possible for SLA researchers, and particularly those who investigate linguistic–cognitive dimensions of language learning, to contribute knowledge about the human capacity for language while supporting equitable multilingualism for all.
Essentials of a Theory of Language Cognition
Authors: ELLIS NICK C.
Published: January 2019

Cognition is not just ‘in the head’; it extends well beyond the skull and the skin. Non‐Cartesian Cognitive Science views cognition as being embodied, environmentally embedded, enacted, encultured, and socially distributed. The Douglas Fir Group (2016) likewise recognizes languages as emergent, social, integrated phenomena. Language is the quintessence of distributed cognition. Language cognition is shared across naturally occurring, culturally constituted, communicative activities. Usage affects learning and it affects languages, too. These are essential components of a theory of language cognition. This article summarizes these developments within cognitive science before considering implications for language research and teaching, especially as these concern usage‐based language learning and cognition in second language and multilingual contexts. Here, I prioritize research involving corpus‐, computational‐, and psycho‐linguistics, and cognitive psychological, complex adaptive system, and network science investigations of learner–language interactions. But there are many other implications. Looking at languages through any one single lens does not do the phenomena justice. Taking the social turn does not entail restricting our research focus to the social. Nor does it obviate more traditional approaches to second language acquisition. Instead it calls for greater transdisciplinarity, diversity, and collaborative work.
Ethnic differences in the root to crown ratios of the permanent dentition
Authors: Wang Jue , Rousso Craig , Christensen Brenna I. , Li Peng , Kau Chung How , MacDougall Mary , Lamani Ejvis
Published: January 2019

Structured Abstract

Objective

Root resorption due to orthodontic tooth movement may adversely affect the root‐crown (R/C) ratios of permanent teeth, especially in patients with Short Root Anomaly (SRA), a poorly understood disorder affecting root development. Evaluation of SRA R/C ratios to normal dentition would facilitate diagnosis and orthodontic treatment planning. However, reference values are not available for all ethnicities. Our goal was to determine R/C ratios of permanent teeth and their relationship to gender and ethnicity.

Setting/Sample

A retrospective study of 333 patients (109 Caucasians, 112 African Americans and 112 Hispanics) from the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Dentistry.

Materials/Methods

Root lengths and crown heights were measured from panoramic radiographs of 6241 teeth using modified Lind's method. A linear mixed model was used to compare the R/C ratios of teeth among subgroups (gender, ethnicity).

Results

The mean R/C ratios varied from 1.80 to 2.21 for the maxillary teeth and 1.83‐2.49 for the mandibular teeth. Gender differences in R/C ratios were found to be significant only for the lower central incisors (P < 0.05). Hispanics showed significantly lower ratios for most teeth compared to the other two groups (P < 0.05). There were significant differences in R/C ratios between African Americans and Caucasians in the upper lateral incisors, lower central incisors and lower first premolars (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Our results suggest that ethnicity is an important factor in determining the R/C ratios of permanent teeth. Therefore, when diagnosing developmental conditions such as SRA, ethnic group‐specific reference values should be considered.
Labial gland biopsy: shared care, medicolegal and surgical considerations
Authors: French K. , Fleming C. , Bell C. , Staines K.
Published: January 2019

Aim

To give the surgeon an overview of Primary Sjögren's syndrome, its pathophysiology, diagnosis and management thus giving insight into why labial gland biopsies are required. The authors also aim to make the operating surgeon aware of their role, responsibility and medicolegal factors to be considered prior to undertaking a labial gland biopsy (LgBx).

Materials and methods

A literature search of PubMed (MEDLINE), Cochrane and EMBASE electronic databases using the search terms ‘Primary Sjӧgren's Syndrome’, ‘Diagnostic Criteria for Sjӧgren's Syndrome’, ‘Labial Gland Biopsy’, ‘Labial Gland Biopsy Complications’, ‘Diagnostic Imaging for Sjӧgren's Syndrome’ and ‘Medicolegal Responsibility of Surgeons’. Title and then abstract were reviewed to determine relevance. Widely used guidelines were identified, indications for biopsy and the risks posed by surgery considered. Medicolegal advice was formally sought via a medical/dental defence union.

Results

The authors considered the available evidence and medicolegal advice and applied this knowledge to the clinical setting. A preoperative checklist for consideration prior to LgBx was developed.

Conclusions

Labial gland biopsy is an invasive procedure with potential to cause post‐operative complications. The operator assumes ultimate responsibility for the procedure. Every surgeon aims to ensure safe surgical practice, in the best interest of the patient. Here, we consolidate recent evidence and propose a checklist to facilitate the process for oral surgeons.
Education in the workplace
Authors: Nathwani S.
Published: January 2019

Aim

The aim of this study was to highlight the importance of clinical supervision (CS) in the current climate, examine the important issues surrounding CS events in surgery and how these may be overcome.

Methods

Identify the important issues of confidentiality, roles and time management in CS and how these impact the trainee and supervisor. Provide evidence through literature review for current education theory and practice surrounding CS in surgery.

Results and Conclusion

There remains ambiguity regarding the guidelines supporting the act of CS, and therefore, the role of the supervisor becomes multifaceted. This paper highlights that the duty of education lies not only with the individual (trainee and trainer) but also the organisations in which it takes place, with responsibility for learning from all parties concerned.
Construction and evaluation of introgression lines and fine mapping of ehd8 from Jinghong common wild rice (Oryza rufipogon)
Authors: Sun Dayun , Wang Wenxiang , Xin Xiaoyun , Cao Liming , Sun Xuejun , Hu Zejun , Jiang Ling , Dong Shiqing , Liu Yahui , Yang Jinshui , Luo Xiaojin
Published: January 2019

Heading date is one of the most important traits in rice and regulated by multiple genes. Common wild rice is the ancestor of Asian cultivated rice and harbours abundant genetic diversity. To use wild rice resource in rice breeding, a set of 154 introgression lines (ILs) covering 93% of the genome of Jinghong common wild rice was constructed in the background 'Teqing', using 208 simple sequence repeat markers evenly distributed on 12 chromosomes. Among the ILs, the line JIL64 displayed late heading independent of photoperiod. Genetic analysis using the two F2 populations crossed ''Teqing'/JIL64 and JIL64/'Teqing' revealed that late flowering was controlled by a recessive gene on chromosome 8 (designated early heading date 8, ehd8), and ehd8 was fine mapped to the 50‐kb region flanked by markers RM22221 and 64Indel4. Sequencing and qRT‐PCR demonstrated that LOC_Os08g01410 and LOC_Os08g01420 were deleted in JIL64 and may be associated with the late heading of Jinghong common wild rice. These findings lay a practical foundation for characterizing ehd8, and the ILs help to mine genes from Jinghong common wild rice.
Sun‐protective behaviours of Turkish young adults
Authors: Baykal Selcuk Leyla , Aksu Arica Deniz , Ates Elif , Yayli Savaş , Bahadir Sevgi
Published: January 2019

Background

The prevalence of skin cancers, including melanoma, has increased significantly in the past five decades. The main environmental factor implicated in their development is excessive sun exposure. Data on sun‐protective behaviours in the Turkish population are very limited.

Objectives

We aim to assess sun protection behaviours and the prevalence of exposure through broad participation among a young adult population in a national university in Turkey.

Methods

A multiple‐choice questionnaire including 27 questions to evaluate sun protection behaviours was sent to e‐mail addresses of all undergraduates. From 40 000 undergraduates, 17 769 of them were included in the study, with a response rate of 44.4%.

Results

Sunscreen usage was the most preferred sun protection method, used by 64% of the study population, followed by the use of sunglasses (60%), tending to remain in the shade (49%), the use of a hat (34%) and wearing long‐sleeved clothing (23%). Forty‐four percentage of the students used at least two methods, whereas 7% did not use any sun protection method. The prevalence rates of the use of sunscreen, sunglasses, wearing long‐sleeved clothing and preferring to remain in the shade in the summer were all significantly higher among women. In addition, the prevalence rates of the use of sunscreen and preferring to remain in the shade were higher among students in the faculty of medicine.

Conclusion

We found that when compared to the countries with the highest incidences of skin cancer, such as Australia and the United States, young adults in Turkey are protecting themselves more from the sun. This rate was even higher among women and faculty of medicine undergrads.
Graphics for Uncertainty
Authors: Bowman Adrian W.
Published: January 2019

Graphical methods such as colour shading and animation, which are widely available, can be very effective in communicating uncertainty. In particular, the idea of a ‘density strip’ provides a conceptually simple representation of a distribution and this is explored in a variety of settings, including a comparison of means, regression and models for contingency tables. Animation is also a very useful device for exploring uncertainty and this is explored particularly in the context of flexible models, expressed in curves and surfaces whose structure is of particular interest. Animation can further provide a helpful mechanism for exploring data in several dimensions. This is explored in the simple but very important setting of spatiotemporal data.
Factors of regional poverty reduction in Colombia: Do institutional conditions matter?
Authors: Nieto‐Aleman Paula‐Andrea , Garcia‐Alvarez‐Coque Jose‐Maria , Roig‐Tierno Norat , Mas‐Verdú Francisco
Published: January 2019

Colombia has a unique history, which has been heavily conditioned by armed conflict lasting more than 50 years. This study examines the institutional conditions for success and failure in reducing poverty in Colombian departments by considering changes that took place between 2003 and 2014. Fuzzy‐set qualitative comparative analysis identifies the changes in regional conditions that reduce poverty over time. The pathways for poverty reduction are multidimensional, and many involve changes in institutional attributes such as government transparency, absence of violence, and electoral turnout. The framework developed in this paper can be used to monitor necessary and sufficient pathways in regional clusters.
Precarious workers' choices about unemployment insurance membership after the Ghent system reform: The Finnish experience
Authors: Shin Young‐Kyu , Böckerman Petri
Published: January 2019

The literature on the Ghent system has focused on the link between voluntary unemployment insurance and union membership in terms of industrial relations. Less attention has been paid to unemployment benefits and employees' decision‐making concerning unemployment insurance, even though the core function of the Ghent system is to provide unemployment insurance. This paper examines both of the options that precarious workers (i.e., part‐timers, temporary employees, and low‐skilled service employees) choose regarding unemployment insurance membership and the change in union density after the Ghent system reform in Finland. First, the results show that the growth of the independent unemployment insurance fund was the main reason for declining union density in the 2000s and early 2010s. Second, in terms of precarious workers, we find that the emergence of the independent fund has affected their choices about unemployment insurance membership and that their choices depend on the type of precarious employment they have. Moreover, part‐timers and temporary employees younger than 35 years of age are much less likely to enroll in unemployment insurance than older employees who have the same types of employment contracts.
Reviewer Acknowledgements
Authors: Young James
Published: January 2019

International Journal of Social Science Studies (IJSSS) would like to acknowledge the following reviewers for their assistance with peer review of manuscripts for this issue. Many authors, regardless of whether IJSSS publishes their work, appreciate the helpful feedback provided by the reviewers. Their comments and suggestions were of great help to the authors in improving the quality of their papers. Each of the reviewers listed below returned at least one review for this issue. Reviewers for Volume 7, Number 1Amanda ElBassiouny, California Lutheran University, USAAmin Ali Almubar, Jazan University, Saudi ArabiaAslan,Yasin, Sinop University, TurkeyAurora Pestaño, University of San Jose Recoletos (USJR), PhilippinesK.O. Aramide, The Polytechnic Ibadan, NigeriaMickey Langlais, University of Nebraska – Kearney, USAMuhammad Uhaib As’ad, Islamic University of Kalimantan, IndonesiaQingzhi Huan, Peking University, ChinaRachita Shrivastava Roy, Department of Higher Education,Chhatisgarh-India, IndiaXue Yang, Ghent University, BelgiumYaghoob Foroutan , The University of Waikato, New ZealandYanzhe Zhang, Jilin University, China , China/Australia
A Technique Based on Adaptive Extended Jacobians for Improving the Robustness of the Inverse Numerical Kinematics of Redundant Robots
Authors: Simas Henrique , Di Gregorio Raffaele
Published: January 2019

The extended Jacobian is a technique for solving the redundancy of redundant robots. It is based on the definition of secondary tasks, through constraint functions that are added to the mapping between joint rates and end-effector's twist. Several approaches showed its potential, applications, and limitations. In general, the constraint functions are a linear combination of basic functions with constant coefficients. This paper proposes the use of adaptive coefficients in such functions by using the conditioning index of the extended Jacobian as a quality measure. A good conditioning index of the extended Jacobian keeps the robot far from singularities and contributes to the solution of the inverse kinematics. In this paper, initially, the extended Jacobian and the proposed algorithm are discussed, and then, two tests in different circumstances are presented in order to validate the proposal.
Misalignment Compensation for Full Human-Exoskeleton Kinematic Compatibility: State of the Art and Evaluation
Authors: Näf Matthias B. , Junius Karen , Rossini Marco , Rodriguez-Guerrero Carlos , Vanderborght Bram , Lefeber Dirk
Published: January 2019

The use of exoskeletons by the elderly, disabled people, heavy labor workers, and soldiers can have great social and economic benefit. However, limitations in usability are impeding the widespread adoption of exoskeletal devices. Kinematic compatibility, comfort, volume, mass, simplicity, expandability, and the ability to transmit forces, relative angles between the exoskeleton and the human, and the donning and doffing procedure need to be considered. Over the last decades, a large number of exoskeletons have been developed, to assert kinematic compatibility and compensate for misalignment. To such a degree, that it has become difficult to keep an overview of the different strategies. Therefore, this review article presents an extensive overview of different misalignment compensation strategies existing in the literature. Further, these strategies are organized in nine categories, evaluated and discussed around the exoskeleton's application domain and its specific requirements and needs.
Effect of BO33− ions on photoluminescence of CaMoO4:Eu3+ phosphor
Authors: Letswalo Machaba L. A. , Reddy Leelakrishna , Balakrishna Avula , Swart Hendrik C. , Ntwaeaborwa Odireleng M.
Published: January 2019

A series of CaMoO4-BO33−:Eu3+ phosphors with different concentrations of Eu3+ (0, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, and 2.5 mol. %) were prepared using the solid-state reaction method. The crystal structure, particle morphology, and photoluminescence (PL) were characterized by x-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectrometry, ultraviolet–vis diffuse reflectance, and PL spectroscopy. The XRD patterns showed that CaMoO4−BO33−:Eu3+ phosphor consisted of a pure phase with a tetragonal structure. The introduction of BO33− ions did not affect the crystal structure of the CaMoO4:Eu3+ phosphors, but it slightly influenced the particle morphology and the peak intensity of the red PL from Eu3+. As confirmed from the FE-SEM data, the shapes and sizes of the particles were modified by the incorporation of BO33− ions. The bandgap was influenced by the incorporation of BiO33− and Eu3+ as confirmed from the diffuse reflectance data. The PL intensity was dependent on the concentration of the Eu3+, and the red emission due to the f → f transitions of Eu3+ was enhanced considerably by the incorporation of BO33− ions when the samples were excited at the wavelength of 395 nm using a monochromatized xenon lamp. The effect of BO33− ions on the PL intensity is discussed.
The approximate constant Q and linearized reflection coefficients based on the generalized fractional wave equation
Authors: Sun Fengyuan , Gao Jinghuai , Liu Naihao
Published: January 2019

The fractional parameter in a generalized fractional model is set to control the degree of absorption. However, it does not have an explicit physical meaning, even though it may be estimated from seismic data. Therefore, it is necessary to establish a common reference, which is physically significant for the fractional parameter in model applications. In this paper, a reference is presented according to the constant Q model. The proposed reference can be used to analyze the fractional parameter in different value interval ranges. When the fractional parameter is small, the related absorptive mechanism is equivalent to a constant Q model. When the fractional parameter is large, it reveals an attenuation mechanism corresponding to a frequency-dependent Q. This analysis makes the fractional parameter more practical in other applications. The study also investigates how to derive the generalized linearized reflection coefficient with the fractional parameter for amplitude variation with offset/frequency. The linearized formulas are used to directly analyze the effects of the parameter contrast. They can also be used to directly estimate the related parameters in detail. According to the study, a known fractional parameter could be analyzed in practice. The synthetic results confirmed that the theory could extend the application of the generalized fractional wave equation.
Cadherin-11–mediated adhesion of macrophages to myofibroblasts establishes a profibrotic niche of active TGF-β
Authors: Lodyga Monika , Cambridge Elizabeth , Karvonen Henna M. , Pakshir Pardis , Wu Brian , Boo Stellar , Kiebalo Melanie , Kaarteenaho Riitta , Glogauer Michael , Kapoor Mohit , Ask Kjetil , Hinz Boris
Published: January 2019

Adhesion with macrophages promotes the activation of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts and creates a self-sustaining profibrotic niche.
Mapping the stochastic sequence of individual ligand-receptor binding events to cellular activation: T cells act on the rare events
Authors: Lin Jenny J. Y. , Low-Nam Shalini T. , Alfieri Katherine N. , McAffee Darren B. , Fay Nicole C. , Groves Jay T.
Published: January 2019

Low-affinity ligands stimulate T cell responses when sequential antigen recognition events occur in nearby membrane regions.
mTORC1 goes sensorless
Authors: Wong Wei
Published: January 2019

A metabolite of leucine regulates mTORC1 through acetylation of Raptor in certain cell types and tissues.
A Glucuronoxylomannan Epitope Exhibits Serotype-Specific Accessibility and Redistributes towards the Capsule Surface during Titanization of the Fungal Pathogen Cryptococcus neoformans
Authors: Probert Mark , Zhou Xin , Goodall Margaret , Johnston Simon A. , Bielska Ewa , Ballou Elizabeth R. , May Robin C.
Published: January 2019

Disseminated infections with the fungal species
Cryptococcus neoformans
or, less frequently,
Cryptococcus gattii
are an important cause of mortality in immunocompromised individuals. Central to the virulence of both species is an elaborate polysaccharide capsule that consists predominantly of glucuronoxylomannan (GXM).
Effects of Alterations to the CX3C Motif and Secreted Form of Human Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) G Protein on Immune Responses to a Parainfluenza Virus Vector Expressing the RSV G Protein
Authors: Liang Bo , Kabatova Barbora , Kabat Juraj , Dorward David W. , Liu Xiang , Surman Sonja , Liu Xueqiao , Moseman Annie Park , Buchholz Ursula J. , Collins Peter L. , Munir Shirin
Published: January 2019

Human RSV is the leading viral cause of severe pediatric respiratory illness. An RSV vaccine is not yet available. The RSV attachment protein G is an important protective and neutralization antigen. G contains a conserved fractalkine-like CX3C motif and is expressed in mG and sG forms. sG and the CX3C motif are thought to interfere with host immune responses, but this remains poorly characterized. Here, we used an attenuated chimeric bovine/human parainfluenza virus type 3 (rB/HPIV3) vector to express various modified forms of RSV G. We demonstrated that strong antibody and protective responses could be induced by G alone, and that this was highly dependent on the integrity of the CX3C motif. There was no evidence that sG or the CX3C motif impaired immune responses against RSV G or the rB/HPIV3 vector. rB/HPIV3 expressing wt RSV G provides a bivalent vaccine against RSV and HPIV3.
Acetylation of E2 by P300 Mediates Topoisomerase Entry at the Papillomavirus Replicon
Authors: Thomas Yanique , Androphy Elliot J.
Published: January 2019

Human papillomaviruses affect an estimated 75% of the sexually active adult population in the United States, with 5.5 million new cases emerging every year. More than 200 HPV genotypes have been identified; a subset of them are linked to the development of cancers from these epithelial infections. Specific antiviral medical treatments for infected individuals are not available. This project examines the mechanisms that control viral genome replication and may allow the development of novel therapeutics.
First Detection and Genome Sequence of Senecavirus A in Vietnam
Authors: Arzt Jonathan , Bertram Miranda R. , Vu Le T. , Pauszek Steven J. , Hartwig Ethan J. , Smoliga George R. , Palinski Rachel , Stenfeldt Carolina , Fish Ian H. , Hoang Bui H. , Phuong Nguyen T. , Hung Vo V. , Vu Pham P. , Dung Nguyen K. , Dong Pham V. , Tien Nguyen N. , Dung Do H.
Published: January 2019

In 2018, senecavirus A was detected for the first time in Vietnam. This report contains the first complete genome of a senecavirus A isolate collected from pigs in Kon Tum Province, Vietnam.
Complete Genome Sequence of an Alphabaculovirus from the Southern Armyworm,
Spodoptera eridania
Authors: Harrison Robert L. , Rowley Daniel L.
Published: January 2019

We report the complete genome sequence of a baculovirus from the moth
Spodoptera eridania
, the southern armyworm. The genome sequence is 149,090 bp and exhibits the greatest degree of sequence similarity with genomes from alphabaculoviruses isolated from other moths of the genus
Spodoptera
.
Complete Genome Sequence of Escherichia coli O157:H7 Phage PhiG17
Authors: Akindolire Muyiwa A. , Aremu Bukola R. , Ateba Collins N.
Published: January 2019

Here, we announce the complete genome sequence of bacteriophage PhiG17, which is virulent toEscherichia coliO157:H7 strains and was isolated from cattle feces in the North West province of South Africa. This report presents the major genetic features of the phage PhiG17 based on its whole-genome sequence.
Draft Genome Sequences of Eight
Vibrio
sp. Clinical Isolates from across the United States That Form a Basal Sister Clade to Vibrio cholerae
Authors: Liang Kevin , Islam Mohammad Tarequl , Hussain Nora , Winkjer Nathan S. , Im Monica S. , Rowe Lori A. , Tarr Cheryl L. , Boucher Yan
Published: January 2019

We sequenced the genomes of eight isolates from various regions of the United States. These isolates form a monophyletic cluster clearly related to but distinct from
Vibrio
cholerae
.
Do stair climbing exercise “snacks” improve cardiorespiratory fitness?
Authors: Jenkins E. Madison , Nairn Leah N. , Skelly Lauren E. , Little Jonathan P. , Gibala Martin J.
Published: January 2019

We investigated the effect of stair climbing exercise “snacks” on peak oxygen uptake. Sedentary young adults were randomly assigned to perform 3 bouts/day of vigorously ascending a 3-flight stairwell (60 steps), separated by 1–4 h of recovery, 3 days/week for 6 weeks, or a nontraining control group (n = 12 each). Peak oxygen uptake was higher in the climbers after the intervention (P = 0.003), suggesting that stair climbing “snacks” are effective in improving cardiorespiratory fitness, although the absolute increase was modest.
A note on generalization of the Ermakov–Lewis invariant and its demystification
Authors: Guha Partha , Ghose-Choudhury Anindya
Published: January 2019

Recently, a physical basis for the Ermakov–Lewis invariant has been pointed out by Padmanabhan [Mod. Phys. Lett. A 33, 1830005 (2018)] and the most general form of the equations admitting such an invariant has been identified. Further generalizations to other equations beyond the Ermakov–Lewis system are derived by considering a more general form of a nonlocal transformation of the Sundman type and the corresponding invariants are derived. Reductions to the time-dependent isotonic oscillator are also obtained.
Impurity-induced tunneling-mediated superconducting gap in bilayer cuprate superconductors
Authors: Pradhan B.
Published: January 2019

We have proposed a model Hamiltonian describing the interlayer tunneling in d-wave bilayer cuprate superconductors. The Hamiltonian is solved for the quasi-particle energy bands and the superconducting (SC) order parameter by using Zubarev’s technique of double time Green’s functions. The effects of interlayer tunneling and the strength of non-magnetic potential are studied for SC order parameter, density of states (DOS), electronic specific heat and quasi-particle energy bands, and the results are compared with others.
The lines of evidence approach to challenges faced in engineering geological practice
Authors: Privett Kevin D.
Published: January 2019

Establishing appropriate lines of evidence enables us to resolve the challenges faced in engineering geological practice. When considering the lines of evidence used to derive a conceptual site model (CSM), three interlocking themes are (1) multi-disciplinary working, (2) knowledge and experience and (3) lessons from the past. This is explored through case histories. There may be no standard approach and conventional engineering geological skills are not always sufficient – as during the decommissioning of cryogenic gas storage tanks at Canvey Island. Alternatively, there may be reservations about using a standard approach; which led to the unconventional use of chalk fill at Port Solent Marina. In the case of a major oil leak into the Permo-Triassic aquifer, understanding the basic science of the problem explained why the original CSM was too simplistic and informed a change of remedial strategy. Obtaining permits for an underground gas storage facility on a landslide complex on the Isle of Portland required numerous lines of evidence to assess the stability of the slope. Furthermore, new lines of evidence can be added to old datasets as technology develops, such as the use of LiDAR in mapping Cotswolds landslides.
Extending Battery System Operation via Adaptive Reconfiguration
Authors: He Liang , Kong Linghe , Gu Yu , Liu Cong , He Tian , Shin Kang G.
Published: January 2019

Large-scale battery packs are commonly used in applications such as electric vehicles (EVs) and smart grids. Traditionally, to provide stable voltage to the loads, voltage regulators are used to convert battery packs’ output voltage to those of the loads’ required levels, causing power loss especially when the difference between the supplied and required voltages is large or when the load is light. In this article, we address this issue via a reconfiguration framework for the battery system. By abstracting the battery system as a cell graph, we develop an adaptive reconfiguration algorithm to identify the desired system configurations based on real-time load requirements. Our design is evaluated via both prototype-based experiments, EV driving trace-based emulations, and large-scale simulations. The results demonstrate an extended system operation time of up to 5×, especially when facing severe cell imbalance.
Language, Gender, and Sexuality
Authors: Meyerhoff Miriam , Ehrlich Susan
Published: January 2019

Research on language and gender encompasses a variety of methods and focuses on many aspects of linguistic structure. This review traces the historical development of the field, explicating some of the major debates, including the need to move from a reductive focus on difference and dichotomous views of gender to more performative notions of identity. It explains how the field has come to include language, gender, and sexuality and how queer theory and speaker agency have influenced research in the field.
Renal cortical oxygen tension is decreased following exposure to long-term but not short-term intermittent hypoxia in the rat
Authors: O’Neill Julie , Jasionek Greg , Drummond Sarah E. , Brett Orla , Lucking Eric F. , Abdulla Mohammed A. , O’Halloran Ken D.
Published: January 2019

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) occurs in more than 50% of patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). However, the impact of intermittent hypoxia (IH) on renal function and oxygen homeostasis is unclear. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed to IH (270 s at 21% O2; 90 s hypoxia, 6.5% O2 at nadir) for 4 h [acute IH (AIH)] or to chronic IH (CIH) for 8 h/day for 2 wk. Animals were anesthetized and surgically prepared for the measurement of mean arterial pressure (MAP), and left renal excretory function, renal blood flow (RBF), and renal oxygen tension (Po2). AIH had no effect on MAP (123 ± 14 vs. 129 ± 14 mmHg, means ± SE, sham vs. IH). The CIH group was hypertensive (122 ± 9 vs. 144 ± 15 mmHg, P < 0.05). Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) (0.92 ± 0.27 vs. 1.33 ± 0.33 ml/min), RBF (3.8 ± 1.5 vs. 7.2 ± 2.4 ml/min), and transported sodium (TNa) (132 ± 39 vs. 201 ± 47 μmol/min) were increased in the AIH group (all P < 0.05). In the CIH group, GFR (1.25 ± 0.28 vs. 0.86 ± 0.28 ml/min, P < 0.05) and TNa (160 ± 39 vs. 120 ± 40 μmol/min, P < 0.05) were decreased, while RBF (4.13 ± 1.5 vs. 3.08 ± 1.5 ml/min) was not significantly different. Oxygen consumption (QO2) was increased in the AIH group (6.76 ± 2.60 vs. 13.60 ± 7.77 μmol/min, P < 0.05), but it was not significantly altered in the CIH group (3.97 ± 2.63 vs. 6.82 ± 3.29 μmol/min). Cortical Po2 was not significantly different in the AIH group (46 ± 4 vs. 46 ± 3 mmHg), but it was decreased in the CIH group (44 ± 5 mmHg vs. 38 ± 2 mmHg, P < 0.05). For AIH, renal oxygen homeostasis was preserved through a maintained balance between O2 supply (RBF) and consumption (GFR). For CIH, mismatched TNa and QO2 reflect inefficient O2 utilization and, thereby, sustained decrease in cortical Po2.
Inhibition of 5-lipoxygenase decreases renal fibrosis and progression of chronic kidney disease
Authors: Montford John R. , Bauer Colin , Dobrinskikh Evgenia , Hopp Katharina , Levi Moshe , Weiser-Evans Mary , Nemenoff Raphael , Furgeson Seth B.
Published: January 2019

In inflammatory diseases, the 5-lipoxygenase (5-LO) pathway contributes to epithelial damage and fibrosis by catalyzing the production of leukotrienes (LTs). Antagonists of the 5-LO pathway are currently approved for use in patients and are well tolerated. We found that expression of 5-LO is strongly induced in three models of chronic kidney disease: unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO), folate nephropathy, and an orthologous mouse model of polycystic kidney disease. Immunohistochemistry showed that macrophages are the dominant source of 5-LO. Zileuton, a US Food and Drug Administration-approved antagonist of 5-LO, significantly reduced fibrosis at 7 and 14 days after UUO; these findings were confirmed using a genetically modified [5-LO-associated protein-knockout ( Alox5ap−/−)] mouse strain. Inhibition of 5-LO did not appear to change infiltration of leukocytes after UUO as measured by flow cytometry. However, fluorescence-lifetime imaging microscopy showed that 5-LO inhibitors reversed the glycolytic switch in renal tubular epithelial cells after UUO. Two downstream enzymes of 5-LO, LTA4 hydrolase (LTA4H) and LTC4 synthase (LTC4S), are responsible for the synthesis of LTB4 and cysteinyl LTs, respectively. Fibrosis was reduced after UUO in Ltc4s−/−, but not Lta4h−/−, mice. In contrast, using the folate nephropathy model, we found reduced fibrosis and improved renal function in both Ltc4s−/− and Lta4h−/− mice. In summary, our studies suggest that manipulation of the 5-LO pathway may represent a novel treatment approach for chronic kidney disease.
Blockade of ERK1/2 by U0126 alleviates uric acid-induced EMT and tubular cell injury in rats with hyperuricemic nephropathy
Authors: Tao Min , Shi Yingfeng , Tang Lunxian , Wang Yi , Fang Lu , Jiang Wei , Lin Tao , Qiu Andong , Zhuang Shougang , Liu Na
Published: January 2019

Extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1 and 2 (ERK1/2) are serine/threonine kinases and function as regulators of cellular proliferation and differentiation. Recently, we demonstrated that inhibition of ERK1/2 alleviates the development and progression of hyperuricemia nephropathy (HN). However, its potential roles in uric acid-induced tubular epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and tubular epithelial cell injury are unknown. In this study, we showed that hyperuricemic injury induced EMT as characterized by downregulation of E-cadherin and upregulation of vimentin and Snail1 in a rat model of HN. This was coincident with epithelial cells arrested at the G2/M phase of cell cycle, activation of Notch1/Jagged-1 and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways, and upregulation of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and MMP-9. Administration of U0126, a selective inhibitor of ERK1/2, blocked all these responses. U0126 was also effective in inhibiting renal tubular cell injury, as shown by decreased expression of lipocalin-2 and kidney injury molecule-1 and active forms of caspase-3. U0126 or ERK1/2 siRNA can inhibit tubular cell EMT and cell apoptosis as characterized with decreased expression of cleaved caspase-3. Moreover, ERK1/2 inhibition suppressed hyperuricemic injury-induced oxidative stress as indicated by decreased malondialdehyde and increased superoxide dismutase. Collectively, ERK1/2 inhibition-elicited renal protection is associated with inhibition of EMT through inactivation of multiple signaling pathways and matrix metalloproteinases, as well as attenuation of renal tubule injury by enhancing cellular resistance to oxidative stress.