bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Groundwater quality variations in Precambrian hard rock aquifers: a case study from Kerala, India
Authors: Nandakumaran P. , Balakrishnan K.
Published: November 2019

Analytical data of groundwater samples collected from weathered and deep fractured zones in the Precambrian charnockite aquifers in Kerala, India, have been studied to understand their hydrochemical variations and reasons thereof. Concentrations of the majority of the constituents analyzed were found to increase with increasing depth of aquifers, with the exception of nitrate. Studies indicate that various processes such as ion exchange reactions, carbonate weathering and silicate weathering are active in both the aquifers which influence the hydrochemical composition of groundwater in them. The prevailing groundwater quality in the aquifers is dependent on the dominance of each process in relation to others. Principal component analysis of the data suggests that contamination from anthropogenic sources has a major role in determining the hydrochemical characteristics of groundwater in the weathered zone unlike in the case of fractured aquifers where water–rock interaction is the major factor responsible. The study also indicates limited hydraulic connection between the weathered and fractured aquifers at the local scale.
Growth and nitrogen removal characteristics of Halomonas sp. B01 under high salinity
Authors: Wang Te , Jiang Zhengzhong , Dong Wenbo , Liang Xiaoya , Zhang Linghua , Zhu Yimin
Published: November 2019

Purpose

At present, the nitrogen (N) removal efficiency of the microbial treatment in the high-salinity nitrogenous wastewaters is relatively low. Study on the N removal behavior and properties of moderately halophilic bacteriaHalomonasunder high salinity is of great significance for the microbial treatment of high-salinity nitrogenous wastewater.

Methods

The response mechanism ofHalomonassp. B01 to high osmotic pressure stress was investigated by measuring the compatible solute ectoine concentration and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity. The salt tolerance during growth and N removal of the strain was evaluated by measuring the activities of growth-related and N removal–related enzymes and the mRNA expression abundance of ammonia monooxygenase-encoding gene (amoA). The process of simultaneous heterotrophic nitrification and aerobic denitrification (SND) under high salinity was described by measuring the concentration of inorganic N.

Result

Halomonassp. B01 synthesized ectoine under NaCl stress, and the intracellular ectoine concentration increased with increased NaCl concentration in the growth medium. When the NaCl concentration of the medium reached 120 g L−1, the malondialdehyde concentration and SOD activity were significantly increased to 576.1 μg mg−1and 1.7 U mg−1, respectively. The growth-related and N removal–related enzymes of the strain were active or most active in medium with 30–60 g L−1NaCl. TheamoAof the strain cultured in medium with 60 g L−1NaCl had the highest mRNA expression abundance. In the N removal medium containing 60 g L−1NaCl and 2121 mg L−1NH4+-N, SND byHalomonassp. B01 was performed over 96 h and the N removal rate reached 98.8%.

Conclusion

In addition to the protective mechanism of synthetic compatible solutes,Halomonassp. B01 had the repair mechanism of SOD for lipid peroxidation. The growth-related and N removal–related enzymes of the strain were most active at a certain salt concentration;amoAalso had the highest mRNA expression abundance under high salinity.Halomonassp. B01 could efficiently perform N removal by SND under high salinity.
Lactic acid bacteria diversity in corn silage produced in Minas Gerais (Brazil)
Authors: Santos Andréia de Oliveira dos , Ávila Carla Luiza da Silva , Soares Célia , Carvalho Beatriz Ferreira , Schwan Rosane Freitas , Lima Nelson
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The diversity of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) in silages produced in warm climate countries is not well known. This study aimed to identify and characterise the metabolic and genotypic aspects of autochthonous LAB isolated from corn silage produced in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil.

Methods

Eighty-eight LAB were isolated. To evaluate their performance at the strain level, all isolates were distinguished among strains using random amplified polymorphic DNA polymerase chain reaction (RAPD-PCR) and repetitive extragenic palindromic PCR (REP-PCR) techniques. The organic acid and ethanol production were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).

Result

The fingerprints obtained by RAPD-PCR with a M13 primer were more discriminatory than those obtained with the REP-PCR technique using a (GACA)4 primer. Moreover, 28 representative isolates were identified as Lactobacillus acidophilus, L. buchneri, L. casei, L. diolivorans, L. hilgardii, L. paracasei, L. parafarraginis, L. plantarum, L. rhamnosus, L. zeae and Pediococcus acidilactici. Different fingerprinting profiles between isolates within the same species were observed. However, some strains isolated from different silages showed the same band profile, thus suggesting the presence of clusters with high similar fingerprints in silages from various regions.

Conclusion

A variation in LAB diversity was observed in the silages of the evaluated regions, with L. rhamnosus and L. buchneri showing the highest distribution. Differences in organic acid production were observed among the strains belonging to the same species. This research contributes to a better understanding of the LAB community present in corn silage produced in warm climates. These strains will be studied as potential silage starters.
Correction to: Real‑world experience with dalbavancin therapy in gram‑positive skin and soft tissue infection, bone and joint infection
Authors: Tobudic Selma , Forstner Christina , Burgmann Heinz , Lagler Heimo , Steininger Christoph , Traby Ludwig , Vossen Mathias G. , Winkler Stefan , Thalhammer Florian
Published: November 2019

The original version of this article unfortunately contained a mistake. The presentation of Fig. 1 was incorrect. The corrected figure is given below.
Phase evolution and characterization of mechanically alloyed hexanary Al16.6Mg16.6Ni16.6Cr16.6Ti16.6Mn16.6 high entropy alloy
Authors: Parameswaran P. , Rameshbabu A.M. , Vijayan V. , Sathish Kumar G. , Sakthivel C. , Pargunam N. , Godwin Antony A.
Published: November 2019

The design, processing, phase generation, microstructure, mechanical properties and homogeneity of Hexanary (Al16.6Mg16.6Ni16.6Cr16.6Ti16.6Mn16.6) High Entropy Alloy (HEA) were analyzed. The trial and error method was used to establish the composition (in atomic percentage) of the hexanary alloy. The alloy was prepared through Mechanical Alloying (MA) and Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS). The phase formed after the MA process has BCC solid solution with crystal size less than 10 nm. The stability of the alloy as analyzed using Thermo-Gravimetric Analysis (TGA) and found that the alloy was stable upto 850 °C. The SPS was done for the MA samples at 850 °C with 50 MPa pressure and its density was found to be 98.83%. The phase after SPS were evaluated with crystal structure of FCC dispersed in the BCC structure. The homogeneity of the composition was deep-rooted by Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS). The hardness of the alloy is found to be 680 ± 20 HV. The progression of the phase imply that this alloy is pertinent for both high strength and high temperature applications.
How career adaptability can enhance career satisfaction: Exploring the mediating role of person–job fit
Authors: Yen Hung-Chieh , Cheng Jen-Wei , Hsu Chin-Tien , Yen Kuo-Ching
Published: November 2019

This study examined the operation of resources as a mechanism underlying the relationship between career adaptability and career satisfaction. Based on career construction theory and conservation of resources theory, we examined the interactive effects of career adaptability, career satisfaction, person–job fit, and job uncertainty. The results of two-wave data collection from 234 full-time workers revealed that employees with stronger career adaptability were more likely to report career satisfaction. The full mediating effect was found of person–job fit. Specifically, we found that career adaptability enhances person–job fit, which results in greater career satisfaction. Additional analysis revealed that job uncertainty interferes with the mediation model. We identified a new antecedent of career satisfaction (i.e., person–job fit) and revealed the functional mechanism underlying the effect of this antecedent. This study provides novel insights valuable to the field of career management.
Multigroup connectivity structures and their implications
Authors: Mohagheghi Shadi , Agharkar Pushkarini , Bullo Francesco , Friedkin Noah E.
Published: November 2019

We investigate the implications of different forms of multigroup connectivity. Four multigroup connectivity modalities are considered: co-memberships, edge bundles, bridges, and liaison hierarchies. We propose generative models to generate these four modalities. Our models are variants of planted partition or stochastic block models conditioned under certain topological constraints. We report findings of a comparative analysis in which we evaluate these structures, controlling for their edge densities and sizes, on mean rates of information propagation, convergence times to consensus, and steady-state deviations from the consensus value in the presence of noise as network size increases.
A VOEvent-based automatic trigger system for the Murchison Widefield Array
Authors: Hancock P. J. , Anderson G. E. , Williams A. , Sokolowski M. , Tremblay S. E. , Rowlinson A. , Crosse B. , Meyers B. W. , Lynch C. R. , Zic A. , Beardsley A. P. , Emrich D. , Franzen T. M. O. , Horsley L. , Johnston-Hollitt M. , Kaplan D. L. , Kenney D. , Morales M. F. , Pallot D. , Steele K. , Tingay S. J. , Trott C. M. , Walker M. , Wayth R. B. , Wu C.
Published: November 2019

The Murchison Widefield Array (MWA) is an electronically steered low-frequency (<300 MHz) radio interferometer, with a ‘slew’ time less than 8 s. Low-frequency (∼100 MHz) radio telescopes are ideally suited for rapid response follow-up of transients due to their large field of view, the inverted spectrum of coherent emission, and the fact that the dispersion delay between a 1 GHz and 100 MHz pulse is on the order of 1–10 min for dispersion measures of 100–2000 pc/cm3. The MWA has previously been used to provide fast follow-up for transient events including gamma-ray bursts (GRBs), fast radio bursts (FRBs), and gravitational waves, using systems that respond to gamma-ray coordinates network packet-based notifications. We describe a system for automatically triggering MWA observations of such events, based on Virtual Observatory Event standard triggers, which is more flexible, capable, and accurate than previous systems. The system can respond to external multi-messenger triggers, which makes it well-suited to searching for prompt coherent radio emission from GRBs, the study of FRBs and gravitational waves, single pulse studies of pulsars, and rapid follow-up of high-energy superflares from flare stars. The new triggering system has the capability to trigger observations in both the regular correlator mode (limited to ≥0.5 s integrations) and using the Voltage Capture System (VCS, 0.1 ms integration) of the MWA and represents a new mode of operation for the MWA. The upgraded standard correlator triggering capability has been in use since MWA observing semester 2018B (July–Dec 2018), and the VCS and buffered mode triggers will become available for observing in a future semester.
The Political Consequences of Labor Market Dualization: Labor Market Status, Occupational Unemployment and Policy Preferences
Authors: Vlandas Tim
Published: November 2019

This article explores empirically how different types of labor market inequality affect policy preferences in post-industrial societies. I argue that the two main conceptualizations of labor market vulnerability identified in the insider–outsider literature are complementary: labor market risks are shaped by both labor market status—whether an individual is unemployed, in a temporary or permanent contract—and occupational unemployment—whether an individual is in an occupation with high or low unemployment. As a result, both status and occupation are important determinants of individual labor market policy preferences. In this paper, I first briefly conceptualize the link between labor market divides, risks and policy preferences, and then use cross-national survey data to investigate the determinants of preferences.
Quality Dating: A Well-Defined Protocol Implemented at ETH for High-Precision 14C-Dates Tested on Late Glacial Wood
Authors: Sookdeo Adam , Kromer Bernd , Büntgen Ulf , Friedrich Michael , Friedrich Ronny , Helle Gerhard , Pauly Maren , Nievergelt Daniel , Reinig Frederick , Treydte Kerstin , Synal Hans-Arno , Wacker Lukas
Published: November 2019

Advances in accelerator mass spectrometry have resulted in an unprecedented amount of new high-precision radiocarbon (14C) -dates, some of which will redefine the international 14C calibration curves (IntCal and SHCal). Often these datasets are unaccompanied by detailed quality insurances in place at the laboratory, questioning whether the 14C structure is real, a result of a laboratory variation or measurement-scatter. A handful of intercomparison studies attempt to elucidate laboratory offsets but may fail to identify measurement-scatter and are often financially constrained. Here we introduce a protocol, called Quality Dating, implemented at ETH-Zürich to ensure reproducible and accurate high-precision 14C-dates. The protocol highlights the importance of the continuous measurements and evaluation of blanks, standards, references and replicates. This protocol is tested on an absolutely dated German Late Glacial tree-ring chronology, part of which is intercompared with the Curt Engelhorn-Center for Archaeometry, Mannheim, Germany (CEZA). The combined dataset contains 170 highly resolved, highly precise 14C-dates that supplement three decadal dates spanning 280 cal. years in IntCal, and provides detailed 14C structure for this interval.
A risk-based detection survey for the predatory miridMacrolophus pygmaeusin New Zealand
Authors: Kean John M. , Mansfield Sarah , Hardwick Scott , Barton Diane M.
Published: November 2019

Macrolophus pygmaeus, a predatory mirid used to manage greenhouse whitefly, was illegally imported into New Zealand, and for a time was reared and sold to commercial tomato growers. We designed and implemented a risk-based detection survey to determine whetherM. pygmaeuswas still present in New Zealand a decade later. The survey was designed to have an 80% chance of detecting a single low density (0.05 per lineal metre of host plants) population within 1 km of known points of introduction. The survey was implemented between 8 and 15 March 2018. Local habitat constraints meant that the planned sampling had to be modified but this was accounted for in the subsequent analysis. NoM. pygmaeuswere found in the samples, but 93 specimens from seven other mirid taxa were detected, validating the sample methods. The survey gives 60% confidence thatM. pygmaeuswas not present at a mean density of 0.05 per lineal metre of habitat. It gives 80% confidence that a population at 0.1 m−1was not present and 90% confidence that no population exists at >0.18 m−1. Though there are no published data on typical field population densities ofM. pygmaeus, for related species the survey would have had high confidence in detecting any medium to high density population present. Therefore, it is likely thatM. pygmaeusis no longer present in New Zealand, but if extant within the sampled areas then we have high certainty that it was at low densities compared to other predaceous mirids.
Carriers and cutters: size-dependent caste polyethism in the tropical fire ant (Solenopsis geminata)
Authors: Chiu Ming-Chung , Wu Wen-Jer , Lai Li-Chuan
Published: November 2019

Body size is an important life-history trait in eusocial insects which plays a key role in colony fitness. The division of labour, represented by caste polyethism, correlates with divergent morphological traits. Size polymorphism has been noted in the tropical fire ant, Solenopsis geminata; however, little is known regarding the differences in the size distributions of workers performing foraging tasks. In the present study, task partitioning was observed in the foraging activities of S. geminata. Two subgroups among foraging workers of S. geminata were discovered using the Gaussian mixture model: a large worker group (head width ≥ 0.924 mm) and a small worker group (head width < 0.924 mm). The foraging worker population comprised two distinct groups – 25.64% were large workers and 74.36% were small workers. Larger workers delivered heavier seeds faster than smaller workers, but this difference became less apparent when lighter seeds were being carried. When large prey such as crickets was encountered during foraging, S. geminata partitioned their tasks into cutting and transportation. The large workers were observed to cut cricket prey into fragments with their longer mandibles, and the small workers then transported these fragments back to the nest. These results present evidence of task partitioning among tropical fire ants, with different tasks being performed by ants of different castes.
Geochemistry and zircon U–Pb–Hf isotopes of the Mante Aobao granite porphyry at East Ujimqin Banner, Inner Mongolia: implications for petrogenesis and tectonic setting
Authors: Hu Fei , Huang Wei , Yang Zeli , Wilde Simon A. , Furnes Harald , Luo Mansheng , Zhang Kexin
Published: November 2019

We present detailed petrography, geochemistry and zircon U–Pb–Hf isotopes of the Mante Aobao granite porphyry in East Ujimqin Banner, Inner Mongolia, with the aim of determining its age and petrogenesis, important for understanding the early Palaeozoic tectonic evolution of the Xing’an–Mongolian Orogenic Belt. The Mante Aobao granite porphyry consists of plagioclase, quartz and minor biotite, but without amphibole. Zircon U–Pb analyses yield ages of 450 ± 1 Ma and 445 ± 2 Ma for the granite porphyry, indicating that it formed during Late Ordovician time. The granite porphyry is metaluminous to slightly peraluminous (aluminous saturation index A/CNK = 0.98–1.11) with high SiO2, K2O and Na2O concentrations and differentiation index (DI = 85–90). Chondrite-normalized rare earth element (REE) patterns display enrichment of light REEs (LREEs) with high ratios of (La/Yb)N and negative Eu anomalies. In the mantle-normalized multi-element variation diagrams, all samples are characterized by depletions of high-field-strength elements (HFSEs; Nb, Ta and Ti) and enrichments of large-ion lithophiles (LILEs; Rb, Th, U and K). These geochemical features indicate that the granite porphyry is a highly fractionated I-type granite and formed in a subduction-related setting. Zircon grains have positive εHf(t) values of +9.2 to +11.2, and TDM2(Hf) ages of 691–821 Ma, suggesting that the granite porphyry was generated by partial melting of Neoproterozoic juvenile crust with involvement of fractional crystallization during magmatic evolution. It is likely that underplating of mantle-derived magmas during Late Ordovician time provided the necessary heat to partially melt this juvenile crust. Combined with the regional geological data, we infer that the Mante Aobao granite porphyry was emplaced in an active continental margin setting that was probably related to the northwards subduction of the Paleo-Asian Plate beneath the South Mongolian Terrane along the Sonid Zuoqi–Xilinhot axis.
Pronocephaloid cercariae (Platyhelminthes: Trematoda) from gastropods of the Queensland coast, Australia
Authors: Cribb T.H. , Chapman P.A. , Cutmore S.C. , Huston D.C.
Published: November 2019

The superfamily Pronocephaloidea Looss, 1899 comprises digeneans occurring in the gut and respiratory organs of fishes, turtles, marine iguanas, birds and mammals. Although many life cycles are known for species of the Notocotylidae Lühe, 1909 maturing in birds and mammals, relatively few are known for the remaining pronocephaloid lineages. We report the cercariae of five pronocephaloid species from marine gastropods of the Queensland coast, Australia. From Lizard Island, northern Great Barrier Reef, we report three cercariae, two fromRhinoclavis vertagus(Cerithiidae) and one fromNassarius coronatus(Nassariidae). From Moreton Bay, southern Queensland, an additional two cercariae are reported from two genotypes of the gastropod worm shellThylacodessp. (Vermetidae). Phylogenetic analysis using 28S rRNA gene sequences shows all five species are nested within the Pronocephaloidea, but not matching or particularly close to any previously sequenced taxon. In combination, phylogenetic and ecological evidence suggests that most of these species will prove to be pronocephalids parasitic in marine turtles. The Vermetidae is a new host family for the Pronocephaloidea.
Tranexamic acid has no advantage in head and neck surgical procedures: a randomised, double-blind, controlled clinical trial
Authors: Thakur A , Gupta S , Thakur J S , Minhas R S , Azad R K , Vasanthalakshmi M S , Sharma D R , Mohindroo N K
Published: November 2019

Objective

To assess the effect of tranexamic acid in head and neck surgical procedures.

Methods

A prospective, double-blind and randomised, parallel group, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted. Ninety-two patients undergoing various head and neck surgical procedures were randomised. Subjects received seven infusions of coded drugs (tranexamic acid or normal saline) starting at the time of skin closure. Haematological, biochemical, blood loss and other parameters were observed by the staff, who were blinded to patients’ group allocation (case or control).

Results

Patients were analysed on the basis of type of surgery. Fifty patients who had undergone surgical procedures, including total thyroidectomy, total parotidectomy, and various neck dissections with or without primary tumour excision, were included in the first group. The second group comprised 41 patients who had undergone hemithyroidectomy, lobectomy or superficial parotidectomy. There was no statistical difference in blood parameters between both groups. There was a reduction in post-operative drain volume, but this was not significant.

Conclusion

Although this prospective, randomised, placebo-controlled clinical trial found a reduction in post-operative drain volume in tranexamic acid groups, the difference was not statistically significant between the various head and neck surgical procedure groups.
Impact of platelet-rich fibrin therapy in tympanoplasty type 1 surgery on graft survival and frequency-specific hearing outcomes: a retrospective analysis in patients with tympanic membrane perforation due to chronic otitis media
Authors: Gökçe Kütük S , Özdaş T
Published: November 2019

Objective

To evaluate the impact of platelet-rich fibrin therapy in tympanoplasty type 1 surgery on graft survival and frequency-specific hearing outcomes.

Methods

Patients who underwent tympanoplasty type 1 surgery were randomised into temporal fascia graft alone (n= 55) and temporal fascia graft plus platelet-rich fibrin therapy (n= 36) groups. Graft survival and hearing outcomes were recorded.

Results

Graft survival rates were significantly higher in the temporal fascia graft plus platelet-rich fibrin therapy group than in the temporal fascia graft alone group at one (100.0vs85.5 per cent,p= 0.020), three (97.2vs80.0 per cent,p= 0.024) and six months post-operatively (94.4vs74.5 per cent,p= 0.031). The difference in hearing gain between groups was not significant.

Conclusion

Our findings revealed that the use of a platelet-rich fibrin plus temporal fascia graft for type 1 tympanoplasty was associated with more favourable post-operative outcomes than the use of temporal fascia alone, both in terms of tympanic membrane healing and graft survival; hearing restoration outcomes were similar.
Reliability of diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging in differentiation of recurrent cholesteatoma and granulation tissue after intact canal wall mastoidectomy
Authors: Allam H S , Abdel Razek A A K , Ashraf B , Khalek M
Published: November 2019

Objective

To assess the reliability of diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging in differentiating recurrent cholesteatoma from granulation tissue after intact canal wall mastoidectomy.

Methods

A prospective study was conducted of 56 consecutive patients with suspected cholesteatoma recurrence after intact canal wall mastoidectomy who underwent diffusion-weighted imaging and delayed contrast magnetic resonance imaging of the temporal bone. The final diagnosis was recurrence in 38 patients and granulation tissue in 18 patients.

Results

Cholesteatoma detection on diffusion-weighted imaging based on two sets of readings had sensitivity of 94.7 and 94.7 per cent, specificity of 94.4 and 88.9 per cent, and accuracy of 94.6 and 92.8 per cent, with good intra-observer agreement (Κ= 0.72,p= 0.001). Cholesteatoma detection on delayed contrast magnetic resonance imaging had sensitivity of 81.6 and 78.9 per cent, specificity of 77.8 and 66.7 per cent, and accuracy of 80.4 and 75.0 per cent, with fair intra-observer agreement (Κ= 0.57,p= 0.001). The mean cholesteatoma diameter on diffusion-weighted imaging was 7.7 ± 1.8 and 7.9 ± 1.8 mm, with excellent intra-observer agreement (Κ= 0.994,p= 0.001).

Conclusion

Diffusion-weighted imaging is a reliable method for differentiating recurrent cholesteatoma and granulation tissue after intact canal wall mastoidectomy.
An assessment of rapamycin for weakening binge-eating memories via reconsolidation: a pre-registered, double-blind randomised placebo-controlled experimental study
Authors: Walsh Katie , Iskandar Georges , Kamboj Sunjeev K. , Das Ravi K.
Published: November 2019

Background

Maladaptive learning linking environmental food cues to high-palatability food reward plays a central role in overconsumption in obesity and binge eating disorders. The process of memory reconsolidation offers a mechanism to weaken such learning, potentially ameliorating over-eating behaviour. Here we investigated whether putatively interfering with synaptic plasticity using the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor, rapamycin, could weaken retrieved chocolate reward memories through blockade of reconsolidation

Methods

Seventy five healthy volunteers with a tendency to binge eat chocolate were randomised to retrieve chocolate reward memory under 10 mg rapamycin (RET + RAP, active condition), or placebo (RET + PBO), or they received 10 mg rapamycin without subsequent retrieval (NO RET + RAP). Indices of chocolate reward memory strength were assessed one week pre and post manipulation and at one month follow-up.

Results

Contrary to hypotheses, the RET + RAP group did not show any greater reduction than control groups on indices of motivational salience of chocolate cues, motivation to consume chocolate or liking of chocolate. Mild evidence of improvement in the RET + RAP group was found, but this was limited to reduced chocolate binge episodes and improved healthy food choices.

Conclusions

We did not find convincing evidence of comprehensive naturalistic chocolate reward memory reconsolidation blockade by rapamycin. The effects on chocolate bingeing and food choices may warrant further investigation. These limited positive findings may be attributable to insufficient interference with mTOR signalling with 10 mg rapamycin, or failure to destabilise chocolate memories during retrieval.
Dissecting the functional outcomes of first episode schizophrenia spectrum disorders: a 10-year follow-up study in the PAFIP cohort
Authors: Ayesa-Arriola Rosa , Ortíz-García de la Foz Víctor , Martínez-García Obdulia , Setién-Suero Esther , Ramírez María Luz , Suárez-Pinilla Paula , Mayoral-van Son Jacqueline , Vázquez-Bourgon Javier , Juncal-Ruiz María , Gómez-Revuelta Marcos , Tordesillas-Gutiérrez Diana , Crespo-Facorro Benedicto
Published: November 2019

Background

The aim of the current study was to examine the heterogeneity of functional outcomes in first episode psychosis (FEP) patients and related clinical, neurocognitive and sociodemographic factors using a cluster analytic approach.

Method

A large sample of FEP patients (N = 209) was functionally reassessed 10 years after the first contact with an early intervention service. Multiple baseline, 3-year and 10-year follow-up variables were explored.

Results

The cluster analysis emphasized the existence of six independent clusters of functioning: one cluster was normal overall (42.16%), two clusters showed moderate interpersonal (9.63%) or instrumental (12.65%) deficits, two clusters showed more severe interpersonal (12.05%) or interpersonal and instrumental (13.85%) deficits and there was a significantly overall impaired cluster (9.63%). Cluster comparisons showed that several baseline and follow-up factors were differentially involved in functional outcomes.

Conclusions

The current study demonstrated that distinct clusters of functioning in FEP patients can be identified. The fact that a variety of profiles was observed contributes to a better understanding of the nature of the heterogeneity characterizing FEP patients and has clinical implications for developing individualized treatment plans.
Parietal P3 and midfrontal theta prospectively predict the development of adolescent alcohol use
Authors: Harper Jeremy , Malone Stephen M. , Iacono William G.
Published: November 2019

Background

Subclinical adolescent alcohol use is highly prevalent and may have deleterious effects on important psychosocial and brain outcomes. Prior research has focused on identifying endophenotypes of pathological drinking, and the predictors of normative drinking remain understudied. This study investigated the incremental predictive value of two potential psychophysiological endophenotypes, P3 amplitude (an index of decision making) and midfrontal theta power (a correlate of attentional control), for prospectively predicting the expression and initiation of alcohol use emerging in adolescence.

Methods

A large (N= 594) epidemiological sample was prospectively assessed at ages 11/14/17. Alcohol/substance use was assessed at all ages via a computerized self-report inventory. EEG was recorded at age-14 during a visual oddball task to elicit P3 and theta.

Results

Reduced target-related P3 and theta at age-14 prospectively predicted drinking at age-17 independent of one another. Among alcohol-naive individuals at age-14, attenuated P3 and theta increased the odds of new-onset alcohol behaviors 3 years later. Importantly, the endophenotypes provided significant incremental predictive power of future non-clinical alcohol use beyond relevant risk factors (prior alcohol use; tobacco/illicit drug initiation; parental alcohol use disorder).

Conclusions

The current report is the first of our knowledge to demonstrate that deviations in parietal P3 and midfrontal theta prospectively predict the emergence of normative/non-pathological drinking. P3 and theta provide modest yet significant explanatory variance beyond prominent self-report and familial risk measures. Findings offer strong evidence supporting the predictive utility of P3 and theta as candidate endophenotypes for adolescent drinking.
Social connectedness: what matters to older people?
Authors: Morgan Tessa , Wiles Janine , Park Hong-Jae , Moeke-Maxwell Tess , Dewes Ofa , Black Stella , Williams Lisa , Gott Merryn
Published: November 2019

While social connectedness is heralded as a key enabler of positive health and social outcomes for older people, rarely have they themselves had the opportunity to express their views about the concept. Working with a diverse group of Pacific, Māori, Asian and New Zealand European older adults, this paper explores what matters to older people when discussing social connectedness? We draw from individual, in-depth interviews with 44 older adults, and three group interviews comprising 32 older adults. Data were analysed using thematic and narrative analyses. The three themes identified were: getting out of the house, ability to connect and feelings of burden. Fundamental to social connectedness was participants’ desire to be recognised as resourceful agents able to foster relationships on the basis of mutual respect. Social connectedness was conceptualised as multi-levelled: relating to interpersonal relationships as much as neighbourhoods and wider society. Alongside these similarities we also discuss important differences. Participants preferred to socialise with people from similar cultural backgrounds where they shared taken-for-granted social customs and knowledges. This is in the context where racism, poverty and inequalities clearly impeded already minoritised participants’ sense of social connection. Key structural ways to improve social connectedness should focus on factors that enable cohesion between levels of connection, including stable neighbourhoods serviced with accessible public transport, liveable pensions and inclusivity of cultural diversity.
First Nations Elders Who Use Wheeled Mobility: An Exploration of Culture and Health
Authors: Croxall Lindsay , Gifford Wendy , Jutai Jeffrey
Published: November 2019

Une recherche interdisciplinaire faisant appel à des méthodes qualitatives a été menée pour étudier les obstacles et les facilitateurs relatifs à la participation culturelle des aînés des Premières Nations qui utilisent la mobilité sur roues et vivent dans des réserves en Ontario (Canada). Les thèmes ont été divisés en trois grandes catégories : (1) l’impact de la participation des aînés à des activités culturelles, (2) l’utilité des aides à la mobilité sur roues et (3) les obstacles freinant la participation à des événements culturels. Les obstacles incluent le manque de transports, l’incapacité de sortir du domicile en toute sécurité et de manière indépendante, l’irrégularité du terrain des réserves ; la stigmatisation associée au handicap, et le sentiment d’être un fardeau. Les résultats suggèrent que la mobilité sur roues peut augmenter la participation active des aînés aux événements culturels, mais démontrent aussi la nécessité de faciliter l’utilisation de cette mobilité dans les réserves en Ontario.
Maternal alcohol dependence and harsh caregiving across parenting contexts: The moderating role of child negative emotionality
Authors: Jacques Debrielle T. , Sturge-Apple Melissa L. , Davies Patrick T. , Cicchetti Dante
Published: November 2019

Parental alcohol dependence is a significant risk factor for harsh caregiving behaviors; however, it is unknown whether and how harsh caregiving changes over time and across parenting contexts for alcohol-dependent mothers. Furthermore, to our knowledge, no studies have examined whether and how distinct dimensions of child characteristics, such as negative emotionality modulate harsh caregiving among alcohol-dependent mothers. Guided by parenting process models, the present study examined how two distinct domains of children's negative emotionality—fear and frustration—moderate the association between maternal alcohol dependence and maternal harshness across discipline and free-play contexts. A high-risk sample of 201 mothers and their two-year-old children were studied over a one-year period. Results from latent difference score analyses indicated that harsh parenting among alcohol-dependent mothers increased over time in the more stressful discipline context, but not in the parent–child play context. This effect was maintained even after controlling for other parenting risk factors, including other forms of maternal psychopathology. Furthermore, this increase in harsh parenting was specific to alcohol-dependent mothers whose children were displaying high levels of anger and frustration. Findings provide support for specificity in conceptualizations of child negative emotionality and parenting contexts as potential determinants of maladaptive caregiving among alcohol-dependent mothers.
Gradual session types
Authors: IGARASHI ATSUSHI , THIEMANN PETER , TSUDA YUYA , VASCONCELOS VASCO T. , WADLER PHILIP
Published: November 2019

Session types are a rich type discipline, based on linear types, that lifts the sort of safety claims that come with type systems to communications. However, web-based applications and microservices are often written in a mix of languages, with type disciplines in a spectrum between static and dynamic typing. Gradual session types address this mixed setting by providing a framework which grants seamless transition between statically typed handling of sessions and any required degree of dynamic typing. We propose Gradual GV as a gradually typed extension of the functional session type system GV. Following a standard framework of gradual typing, Gradual GV consists of an external language, which relaxes the type system of GV using dynamic types; an internal language with casts, for which operational semantics is given; and a cast-insertion translation from the former to the latter. We demonstrate type and communication safety as well as blame safety, thus extending previous results to functional languages with session-based communication. The interplay of linearity and dynamic types requires a novel approach to specifying the dynamics of the language.
Culture of goat preantral follicles in situ associated with mesenchymal stem cell from bone marrow
Authors: Arrivabene Neves Camila , dos Santos Silva Lucilene , de Carvalho Camila Ernanda Sousa , Silva Carvalho Marina , Sarmento José Lindenberg Rocha , Vasconcelos Cavalcante Tânia , Arrivabene Mônica , Arrivabene Neves Tábatta , de Sousa Bezerra Maria Éllida , Júnior Antônio Luiz Gomes , da Silva Cleidson Manoel Gomes , de Carvalho Maria Acelina Martins
Published: November 2019

This study aims to develop an in vitro co-culture system of in situ goat preantral follicles with bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSC), evaluating the influence of these cells on follicular growth, rate of activation and morphologically normal follicles. Fragments of ovarian cortex were cultured for 1 or 7 days in the presence of BM-MSC (BM-MSC+) and absence of BM-MSC (BM-MSC−). Histological sections of the fragments were analysed and data were obtained regarding morphological classification, survival rate of morphologically normal follicles and rate of follicular activation. Culture medium on days 1 and 7 was also sampled for nitrite concentration and reduced glutathione activity. There was a reduction (P < 0.05) in the percentage of morphologically normal follicles in the BM-MSC+ compared with the fresh control only on the seventh day of culture. When comparing treatments, on the seventh day of culture, a higher rate of morphologically normal preantral follicles was observed in BM-MSC+ (P < 0.05). In both treatments, primordial and developing follicle rates were similar to the fresh control (P > 0.05). When comparing treatments with each other, as well as with the fresh control, no differences were observed in follicular diameter (P > 0.05) or nitrite concentration (P > 0.05). The concentration of reduced glutathione was lower on the seventh day of co-culture in both treatments (P < 0.05). In conclusion, co-culture had no influence on follicular or oocyte development. However, it was critical to maintain the survival of preantral follicles during 7 days of culture.
Nutrition care by primary-care physicians: advancing our understanding using the COM-B framework
Authors: Crowley Jennifer , Ball Lauren , Hiddink Gerrit J
Published: November 2019

Objective:

To investigate the nutrition education provided by primary-care physicians (PCP).

Design:

An integrative review was used to examine literature on nutrition care provided by PCP from 2012 to 2018. A literature search was conducted in MEDLINE, PubMed, Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) and Scopus using key search terms.

Setting:

USA, Netherlands, Germany, Denmark, UK, Lebanon, Australia and New Zealand.

Participants:

Primary-care physicians.

Results:

Sixteen qualitative and quantitative studies were analysed thematically using meta-synthesis informed by the COM-B model of behaviour (capability, motivation and opportunity), to understand the influences on PCP behaviours to provide nutrition care. PCP perceive that they lack nutrition capability. While PCP motivation to provide nutrition care differs based on patient characteristics and those of their own, opportunity is influenced by medical educators, mentors and policy generated by professional and governmental organisations.

Conclusions:

The development of PCP capability, motivation and opportunity to provide nutrition care should begin in undergraduate medical training, and continue into PCP training, to create synergy between these behaviours for PCP to become confident providing nutrition care as an integral component of disease prevention and management in contemporary medical practice.
Freedom of the Press and Public Responsiveness
Authors: Hiaeshutter-Rice Dan , Soroka Stuart , Wlezien Christopher
Published: November 2019

Public responsiveness to policy is contingent on there being a sufficient amount of clear and accurate information about policy available to citizens. It is of some significance then, that there are increasing concerns about limits being placed on media outlets around the world. We examine the impact of these limits on the public’s ability to respond meaningfully to policy by analyzing cross-national variation in the opinion–policy link. Using new measures on spending preferences from Wave 4 of the Comparative Study of Electoral Systems, merged with OECD data on government spending and Freedom House measures of press freedom, we assess the role of mass media in facilitating public responsiveness. We find evidence that when media are weak, so too is public responsiveness to policy. These results highlight the critical role that accurate, unfettered media can play in modern representative democracy.
Does physical activity attenuate the association between birth weight and glycated hemoglobin in nondiabetic Japanese women?
Authors: Aoyama Tomoko , Miyatake Nobuyuki , Seki Akiho , Hossaka Kouji , Takimoto Hidemi , Tanaka Shigeho
Published: November 2019

Lower birth weight is associated with a risk of type 2 diabetes in adulthood. However, it is not clear whether this association is modified by physical activity. This study aimed to examine the association between birth weight and glycemic status and whether this association is mediated by moderate- and vigorous-intensity activity (MVPA) in Japanese women. The participants were 103 nondiabetic women (47.4 ± 10.8 years), who underwent health checkups in which data of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) were collected. Abdominal circumference (AC) was measured at the umbilical region. Birth weight was obtained from the Maternal and Child Health Handbook records or reported based on the participant’s or his/her mother’s recall. Time (min/day) spent in MVPA (≥3.0 metabolic equivalents) was objectively measured using a triaxial accelerometer (Actimarker EW4800). Birth weight was inversely correlated with HbA1c (r = −0.32, P < 0.01). Multiple linear regression analyses revealed that lower birth weight was associated with increased HbA1c (β = −0.22, P < 0.05) even after adjusting for age, state of menstruation, AC, and family history of diabetes. This association was little changed when MVPA was introduced as an independent variable in the model (β = −0.23, P < 0.05). These results suggest that lower birth weight may be associated with higher HbA1c levels before the onset of type 2 diabetes, irrespective of adulthood physical activity. Early-life development should be taken into account when considering the risk of diabetes in Japanese women, even if they are physically active.
Herbicide selection to terminate grass, legume, and brassica cover crop species
Authors: Pittman Kara B. , Cahoon Charles W. , Bamber Kevin W. , Rector Lucas S. , Flessner Michael L.
Published: November 2019

Cover crops provide a number of agronomic benefits, including weed suppression, which is important as cases of herbicide resistance continue to rise. To effectively suppress weeds, high cover crop biomass is needed, which necessitates later termination timing. Cover crop termination is important to mitigate potential planting issues and prevent surviving cover crop competition with cash crops. Field studies were conducted in Virginia to determine the most effective herbicide options alone or combined with glyphosate or paraquat to terminate a range of cover crop species. Results revealed that grass cover crop species were controlled (94% to 98%) by glyphosate alone 4 wk after application (WAA). Overall, legume species varied in response to the single active-ingredient treatments, and control increased with the addition of glyphosate or paraquat. Mixes with glyphosate provided better control of crimson clover and hairy vetch by 7% to 8% compared with mixes containing paraquat 4 WAA. Mix partner did not influence control of Austrian winter pea. No treatment adequately controlled rapeseed in this study, with a maximum of 58% control observed with single active-ingredient treatments and 62% control with mixes. Height reduction for all cover crop species supports visible rating data. Rapeseed should be terminated when smaller, which could negate weed suppressive benefits from this cover crop species. Growers should consider herbicide selection and termination timing in their cover crop plan to ensure effective termination.
Asian and Trans‐Pacific Dust: A Multimodel and Multiremote Sensing Observation Analysis
Authors: Kim Dongchul , Chin Mian , Yu Hongbin , Pan Xiaohua , Bian Huisheng , Tan Qian , Kahn Ralph A. , Tsigaridis Kostas , Bauer Susanne E. , Takemura Toshihiko , Pozzoli Luca , Bellouin Nicolas , Schulz Michael
Published: November 2019

Dust is one of the dominant aerosol types over Asia and the North Pacific Ocean, but quantitative estimation of dust distribution and its contribution to the total regional aerosol load from observations is challenging due to the presence of significant anthropogenic and natural aerosols and the frequent influence of clouds over the region. This study presents the dust aerosol distributions over Asia and the North Pacific using simulations from five global models that participated in the AeroCom phase II model experiments, and from multiple satellite remote sensing and ground‐based measurements of total aerosol optical depth and dust optical depth. We examine various aspects of aerosol and dust presence in our study domain: (1) the horizontal distribution, (2) the longitudinal gradient during trans‐Pacific transport, (3) seasonal variations, (4) vertical profiles, and (5) model‐simulated dust life cycles. This study reveals that dust optical depth model diversity is driven mostly by diversity in the dust source strength, followed by residence time and mass extinction efficiency.