bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do local economic interests matter when regulating nationally significant infrastructure? The case of renewable energy infrastructure projects
Authors: Rydin Yvonne , Natarajan Lucy , Lee Maria , Lock Simon
Published: March 2018

Government policy in the UK, as in many countries, sees investment in infrastructure projects – particularly large ones – as a key means of supporting the national economy. But where does this leave local economic interests in the loci of these projects? And how does the regulation of such projects handle these interests? These are the questions addressed by this paper in the context of renewable energy projects that are regulated by the Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects regime. Drawing on original research into the regulation of 12 projects – and using thematic analysis of key documents and focus groups with local participants – the analysis highlights the limited understanding of the local economy presented, the challenges that local businesses face in participating and the partial protection offered to them. It concludes by proposing agendas for reforms and future research.
ESCA Studies on Heparin-like Materials Used for Extracorporeal Shunts
Authors: Lautier A. , Baquey Ch. , Salesse A. , Fougnot C. , Labarre D. , Basse-Cathalinat B. , Ducassou D. , Josefowicz M.
Published: March 2018

Amino-acids sulfamide substituted polystyrene surfaces exhibit an heparin-like activity. Similar treatments were achieved on small diameter tubings made of polystyrene grafted on polyethylene. Electron spectroscopy for Chemical Analysis (ESCA) appeared as the suitable method for a chemical characterization of the surface (~ 50–100 Å depth) to be in contact with circulating blood. These tubings were implanted as extracorporeal shunts on dogs. The variations of local concentrations of labelled platelets, red cells and fibrinogen were recorded in situ. Depending on the conditions of preparation and implantation, a slight adhesion of platelets was observed. By using such type of materials with an improved mechanical compliance, small diameter antithrombogenic tubings could be developped, provided the chlorosulfonation prior to amino-acid grafting is mild.
Dialysis Leucopenia -No Correction after Prolonged Washing of the Membrane
Authors: Hoenich N.A. , Laing C. , Buckley P. , Woffindin C. , Kerr D.N.S.
Published: March 2018

Re-use of hemodialysers diminishes the extent of leucopenia observed during hemodialysis. A possible cause of this change is the prolonged washing of the membrane by an aqueous solution on both sides and by protein contained solutions on the blood side which removes some substance from the membrane which affects leucocytes directly or by activation of complement. A series of studies to test this hypothesis were performed using two hemodialysis membranes -Cuprophan (Enka AG) and Cellulate (Cordis Dow Corporation) and the results obtained demonstrate no elution of any water soluble substance from the dialyser membrane.
Design Considerations for the Omniscience Pivoting Disc Cardiac Valve Prosthesis
Authors: Reif T.H. , Huffstutler M.C.
Published: March 2018

Parametric studies are conducted in an effort to determine the optimum curvature and eccentricity for concave-convex pivoting disc prosthetic heart valves. Steady-state pressure measurements with prototype valves and laser-Doppler anemometer measurements of the velocity field with a two-dimensional model are presented. These results suggest that an optimum curvature exists and that the minimum eccentricity that promotes full opening should be used. Estimates of the shear stress distribution in the wake of the valve are computed. The maximum shear stress for both the major and minor outflow areas appear to be: 1) fairly evenly distributed, 2) well below the level for damage to the formed elements of blood as they pass through the valve, and 3) above the level required for the formation of a stable thrombus.
Serum Vitamin E Levels in Patients with Chronic Renal Failure
Authors: Stein G. , Richter G. , Fünfstück R. , Sperschneider H. , Günther K.
Published: March 2018

27 patients with chronic renal failure, 21 patients on chronic intermittend dialysis treatment and 27 healthy controls were tested for serum level of vitamin E estimated spectrophotometrically. Both patient groups had significant higher mean values (12.1 ± 1.2 and 7.2 ± 0.8 μg/ml respectively) in comparison with normal controls (4.6 ± 0.7 μg/ml). No correlation was found to serum creatinine, hematologic values, protein and lipoprotein concentration, nor to mode and duration of treatment regimes. Vitamin E was not extracted from blood throughout dialysis.

Under normal conditions of conservative or dialysis treatment of chronic renal failure patients vitamin E seems not to be a factor concerning uremic symptoms and there is no need for supplementation.
Effects of Serial Resin Hemoperfusion in Fulminant Hepatic Failure
Authors: Bihari D. , Hughes R.D. , Gimson A.E.S. , Langley P.G. , Ede R.J. , Eder G. , Williams R.
Published: March 2018

Resin hemoperfusion using an albumin coated Amberlite XAD-7 column was performed in 19 patients in coma due to fulminant hepatic failure. The procedure was clinically well tolerated, with good blood compatibility, platelet and white cell levels being 97.3 ± SE 3.2% and 105 ± 3.8% of the respective initial values after four hours hemoperfusion. No significant changes were observed in β-thromboglobulin, screen filtration pressure, plasma electrolytes, calcium, protein or albumin. The total plasma bilirubin fell by a mean of 24 μmol/l, with a reduction in 21 of the 25 perfusions studied of up to 104 μmol/l during perfusion. Mean plasma levels of total bile acids were 137 ± 19 μmol/l and 115 ± 16 μmol/l respectively before and after four hours hemoperfusion.

The amount of bile acids recovered by elution of the resin column was over three times greater than that apparent from the change in plasma levels. Column chromatography on Sephadex G-25 of material eluted from the resin column showed various peaks to be removed, including substances in the middle molecular weight range (1000-5000 daltons). Of the patients treated, eight (42%) survived to leave hospital.
Plasma Exchange (PE) and Lymphocytapheresis (LCA) in Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
Authors: Höcker P. , Stellamor V. , Summer K. , Mann M.
Published: March 2018

In 96 patients suffering from multiple sclerosis (MS) 277 plasma exchanges (PE) including 176 lymphocytaphereses were performed. Improvement was mainly seen in patients with a short course of disease and at acute exacerbations. Patients with chronic progressive and relapsing intermittent courses responded only poorly. One or two PE were sufficient to induce improvement which was only marginally altered by subsequent PE.

Our data confirm that only selected patients will benefit from PE-treatment especially those with acute exacerbations.
In vitro evaluation of the genotoxicity of CeO2 nanoparticles in human peripheral blood lymphocytes using cytokinesis-block micronucleus test, comet assay, and gamma H2AX
Authors: Könen-Adıgüzel Serpil , Ergene Serap
Published: March 2018

Engineered nanoparticles (ENPs) are used in a wide range of applications because of their unique properties. Cerium dioxide nanoparticles (CeO2 NPs) are one of the important ENPs, and they can cause negative health effects, such as genotoxicity, in humans and other living organisms. The aim of this work was to analyze the genotoxic effects of short-term (3–24 h) CeO2 NPs exposure to cultured human blood lymphocytes. Three genotoxicity systems “cytokinesis-block micronucleus test, comet assay, and gamma H2AX test” were used to show the genotoxic potential of CeO2 NPs (particle size <25 nm, concentrations: 6, 12, and 18 µg/mL). Hydrogen peroxide was selected as the positive-control genotoxic agent. Our results indicate that CeO2 NPs have genotoxic potential on human peripheral blood lymphocytes cells even at 3–24 h exposure under in vitro conditions.
Caregiver-Reported Sleep Disturbances Are Associated With Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms in an Asian Elderly Cohort With Cognitive Impairment-No Dementia
Authors: Xu Xin , Kan Cheuk Ni , Wong Tien Yin , Cheng Ching-Yu , Ikram M. Kamran , Chen Christopher Li-Hsian , Venketasubramanian Narayanaswamy
Published: March 2018

Objective:

Sleep disturbances were found to be associated with more behavioral and psychological symptoms (BPS) in early patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, data on preclinical stages of dementia are lacking. Hence, the present study sought to investigate the association between sleep disturbances and BPS in dementia-free elderly with varying severity of cognitive impairment in an Asian sample.

Methods:

Community-living elderly were recruited and administered a comprehensive cognitive battery (vascular dementia battery [VDB]) and the Neuropsychiatric Inventory to assess symptoms of sleep disturbances and BPS. Severity of cognitive impairment was diagnosed and classified as no cognitive impairment (NCI), cognitive impairment-no dementia (CIND) -mild (1-2 impaired domains on the VDB), and CIND-moderate (≥3 impaired domains on the VDB). Analysis of variance was conducted to assess the associations between the presence of sleep disturbances and BPS scores in each diagnostic group. Logistic regression was used to examine whether the coexistence of sleep disturbances and other BPS was associated with CIND-moderate, which is known to carry a higher risk of progression to AD.

Results:

Among 839 elderly, 79 (9.4%) reported sleep disturbances. Participants with sleep disturbances had higher total BPS burden than those without among CIND participants but not in NCIs. Furthermore, CIND-moderate participants with sleep disturbances had more delusions, hallucinations, anxiety, depression, irritability, aberrant motor behavior, and appetite change ( P < .05). The presence of both sleep disturbances and other BPS was associated with CIND-moderate (odds ratio: 2.5, 95% confidence interval: 1.1-5.5).

Conclusions:

Sleep disturbances are associated with higher total BPS burden and specific BPS among elderly patients with cognitive impairment, particularly those with CIND moderate, which carries higher risk of developing dementia.
Where You Age Matters: Individual- and County-Level Predictors of Formal and Informal Care in Rural Appalachia
Authors: Savla Jyoti , Bivens L. Rebecca , Roberto Karen A. , Blieszner Rosemary
Published: March 2018

Objective: Despite overall improvements in the U.S. health care, older adults living in rural counties, such as Appalachian Virginia, continue to be underserved. Method: Multinomial regression models, including both individual and county data from 503 older adults aged 65+, were used to examine factors associated with informal and formal care use. Results: Older adults with stronger filial beliefs and less positive attitudes toward community services preferred informal help. If the county had more formal care services, however, older adults were more likely to use them, regardless of their filial beliefs. Disparities based on gender were observed, in that women who lived in counties with a higher percentage of older adults below the poverty line were more likely to receive no help than men. Discussion: Developing effective service promotion tactics, destigmatizing community services, and targeting services and support, especially to women, could decrease health disparities in rural Appalachia and similar geographic areas.
Field and numerical investigation of the effect of under-sleeper pads on the dynamic behavior of railway bridges
Authors: Mottahed Jaber , Zakeri Jabbar A , Mohammadzadeh Saeed
Published: March 2018

There is a growing need to minimise vibrations of railway structures, especially the railway bridges, due to the increasing speed of trains. Various methods are used to reduce the effects of vibration on bridges. One of the methods is using under-sleeper pads. In this study, a real railway bridge – located in the northern district of Iran – with two spans and a free span length of 7 m was selected for the investigation of the effect of under-sleeper pads on the reduction of vibrations imposed on railway bridges. Field experiments – including the installation of an accelerometer to measure the accelerations beneath bridge decks, on the rail web, and next to the sleeper, and also the installation of Linear variable differential transformers (LVDTs) to measure the displacements of midspan point of bridge decks – were conducted. The effect of under-sleeper pads on the reduction of vibration accelerations, displacements, and moments of bridge midspan was investigated by developing numerical models of the bridge and validating its results through experimental outputs. The modeling predicts that the reduction of acceleration imposed on the deck in the first and second spans was different; the reduction effects in the first span were higher, where there was 58% reduction after using under-sleeper pads beneath the sleepers. There was a 15% decrease in the displacement of the bridge deck when under-sleeper pads are used. Similar results were obtained for the midspan moment of the bridge which reduced by 16%.
An analytical model for the prediction of thermal track buckling in dual gauge tracks
Authors: Villalba Sanchis Ignacio , Insa Ricardo , Salvador Pablo , Martínez Pablo
Published: March 2018

In rail transport, track gauge is one of the principal factors that condition the passage of trains. For technical and economic reasons, in some circumstances it is necessary to build and operate the so-called dual gauge track, in which a third rail is added to allow operation of trains in two separate gauges. Although the problem of lateral buckling of rail tracks under thermal loading has been well researched, the addition of the third rail increases the steel area subjected to thermal loads, and thus requires a more accurate analysis. The objective of this paper is to develop an analytical model to analyse the lateral buckling under thermal loads on dual gauge tracks. An in-depth analysis of the effects of the thermal track buckling response produced by each fundamental parameter is presented and discussed. It is found that the risk of buckling is more in dual gauge tracks when compared with the conventional tracks. Finally, this model establishes a mechanism that can be used to perform a more effective infrastructure management policy.
“It’s Not Much of a Life”: The Benefits and Ethics of Using Life History Methods With People Who Inject Drugs in Qualitative Harm Reduction Research
Authors: Harris Magdalena , Rhodes Tim
Published: March 2018

A life history approach enables study of how risk or health protection is shaped by critical transitions and turning points in a life trajectory and in the context of social environment and time. We employed visual and narrative life history methods with people who inject drugs to explore how hepatitis C protection was enabled and maintained over the life course. We overview our methodological approach, with a focus on the ethics in practice of using life history timelines and life-grids with 37 participants. The life-grid evoked mixed emotions for participants: pleasure in receiving a personalized visual history and pain elicited by its contents. A minority managed this pain with additional heroin use. The methodological benefits of using life history methods and visual aids have been extensively reported. Crucial to consider are the ethical implications of this process, particularly for people who lack socially ascribed markers of a “successful life.”
The Subthalamic Nucleus: Unravelling New Roles and Mechanisms in the Control of Action
Authors: Bonnevie Tora , Zaghloul Kareem A.
Published: March 2018

How do we decide what we do? This is the essence of action control, the process of selecting the most appropriate response among multiple possible choices. Suboptimal action control can involve a failure to initiate or adapt actions, or conversely it can involve making actions impulsively. There has been an increasing focus on the specific role of the subthalamic nucleus (STN) in action control. This has been fueled by the clinical relevance of this basal ganglia nucleus as a target for deep brain stimulation (DBS), primarily in Parkinson’s disease but also in obsessive-compulsive disorder. The context of DBS has opened windows to study STN function in ways that link neuroscientific and clinical fields closely together, contributing to an exceptionally high level of two-way translation. In this review, we first outline the role of the STN in both motor and nonmotor action control, and then discuss how these functions might be implemented by neuronal activity in the STN. Gaining a better understanding of these topics will not only provide important insights into the neurophysiology of action control but also the pathophysiological mechanisms relevant for several brain disorders and their therapies.
Harmonic vibrations in thermoelastic dynamics with double porosity structure
Authors: Florea Olivia A
Published: March 2018

This paper is a study regarding the harmonic vibrations of materials with a double porosity structure. The amplitude of vibrations corresponding to the backward in time problem is analysed. The aim is to estimate the evolution of the amplitude and to obtain conservation laws.
Surgical technique of placement of an external jugular tunneled hemodialysis catheter in a large pig model
Authors: Florescu Marius C , Runge Joseph , Lof John , Stolze Elizabeth , Fry Gretchen , Flora Maurino , Nio George , Foster Kirk W
Published: March 2018

Background:

Currently, there is insufficient knowledge about the surgical anatomy and surgical techniques in large animals that can be used to test medical devices designed for human use. We encountered this problem in our study requiring the placement of jugular vein, tunneled, cuffed hemodialysis catheter in 70 kg pigs. Despite the operator’s extensive expertise in placing tunneled hemodialysis catheters in humans, the important differences in anatomy made the procedure and choosing the appropriate catheter length challenging.

Methods:

The following article describes the anatomy and our technique for the placement of tunneled hemodialysis catheter in the pig model.

Results:

We consider our surgical technique to be sound because in all animals the catheters were placed in the desired location, the procedures were well tolerated by the animals, and there were no immediate or late complications.

Conclusion:

We present our experience to help other researchers who might encounter the same problem.
One-stage operation for superficialization of native radio-cephalic fistula in obese patients
Authors: Okawa Takao , Murakami Masaaki , Yamada Ryo , Tanaka Satoshi , Mori Kiyoshi , Mori Noriko
Published: March 2018

Purpose:

The population of obese patients is increasing in general and also at hemodialysis initiation. For successful cannulation of arteriovenous fistula, the National Kidney Foundation-Dialysis Outcome Quality Initiative guidelines suggest that the required maturation parameters are at a depth of <6 mm. There are several reports describing two-stage superficialization of arteriovenous fistulas in obese cases. Therefore, we investigated the utility and complications of one-stage superficialization of radio-cephalic fistula.

Methods:

From January 2011 to March 2017, we simultaneously performed forearm radio-cephalic fistula creation and superficialization of the cephalic vein for 10 patients having obesity (body mass index > 30 kg/m2) and deep cephalic vein (>6 mm). Initially, an arteriovenous anastomosis was created at an appropriate site. Subsequently, an 8–10 cm longitudinal skin incision was made along the lateral aspect of the forearm cephalic vein. The cephalic vein was identified and exposed. The cephalic vein was repositioned superficially.

Results:

The mean age of the patients was 53 years (range: 40–72 years) and the mean body mass index was 40.2 kg/m2 (33.1–59.7 kg/m2). The cause of renal failure in eight patients was diabetic nephropathy, and in two patients, it was unknown. After the procedure, vein depth became 3.4 mm (1.9–4.6 mm) from 8.2 mm (6.0–13.4 mm). All patients who initiated dialysis underwent successful two-needle cannulation. Primary patency rate was 71.4% at 12 months (two patients underwent percutaneous transluminal angioplasty) and secondary patency rate was 100%. There was one procedure-related complication and delayed wound healing, which was improved by observation without antibiotics.

Conclusion:

This small series of patients indicates that one-stage superficialization of radio-cephalic fistula is a safe and effective option to start hemodialysis in obese subjects.
The gendered nature of stereotypes about climate change opinion groups
Authors: Swim Janet K. , Geiger Nathaniel
Published: March 2018

We document the gendered nature and valence of stereotypes about each of the Six Americas climate change opinion groups that represent a continuum of climate change opinions from Dismissive to Alarmed. Results primarily supported predictions. First, the more groups were associated with strong concern about climate change, the more feminine they were perceived to be. Second, groups with strong concern or strong lack of concern were seen the most negatively. However, contrary to expectations, greater concern was also associated with more positive masculine traits. Combining effects, most perceived the Dismissive to have negative masculine traits and not to have positive feminine traits, those with intermediate opinions (especially, those who were Cautious and Concerned) most favorably, and the Alarmed to have both positive masculine and negative feminine traits. Ratings suggest that (a) the Dismissive may be seen as being “bad but bold”, (b) the Cautious and Concerned may be seen as liked but not respected, and (c) the Alarmed may be seen as respected but not liked. Thus, ratings indicate the importance of attending to gendered and ambivalent impressions of group. Third, valence of impressions was moderated by perceivers’ personal concern about climate change in a manner consistent with intergroup biases. Findings lay the groundwork for understanding the influence of impressions of opinion groups on, for example, willingness to endorse opinions, associate with opinion groups, and support or oppose climate change action.
Validity of the diagnosis of appendicitis in the Danish National Patient Register
Authors: Kleif Jakob , Thygesen Lau C. , Gögenur Ismail
Published: March 2018

Aims: Appendicitis is a common disease. The nationwide Danish National Patient Register provides an important data source for epidemiological research. Data used in register-based epidemiological research needs to be validated. We aimed to validate the diagnosis of appendicitis in the Danish National Patient Register. Methods: From 1997 to 2015 nationwide data from the Danish National Patient Register, the Danish Pathology Register, and the Danish Civil Registration System were used to validate the diagnosis of appendicitis or the combination of the diagnosis for appendicitis and surgical removal of the appendix in the Danish National Patient Register. Sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values were calculated using pathology reports as golden standard. Results: Diagnosis of appendicitis in the Danish National Patient Register had a sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of 0.928 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.927; 0.930), 0.995 (95% CI: 0.995; 0.995), 0.769 (95% CI: 0.767; 0.771), and 0.999 (95% CI: 0.999; 0.999). A diagnosis of appendicitis and a procedure code for surgical removal of the appendix had a sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of 0.886 (95% CI: 0.885; 0.888), 0.998 (95% CI: 0.998; 0.998), 0.895 (95% CI: 0.894; 0.897), and 0.998 (95% CI: 0.998; 0.998). Conclusions: The diagnosis of appendicitis alone or in combination with the registered surgical removal of the appendix in the Danish National Patient Register showed acceptable validity. Whether to use the diagnosis for appendicitis only or in combination with procedure codes for the removal of the appendix depends on whether high sensitivity or high positive predictive values are warranted.
Endovascular Treatment of Severely Calcified Femoropopliteal Lesions Using the “Pave-and-Crack” Technique: Technical Description and 12-Month Results
Authors: Dias-Neto Marina , Matschuck Manuela , Bausback Yvonne , Banning-Eichenseher Ursula , Steiner Sabine , Branzan Daniela , Staab Holger , Varcoe Ramon L. , Scheinert Dierk , Schmidt Andrej
Published: March 2018

Purpose: To report midterm results of the “pave-and-crack” technique to facilitate safe and effective scaffolding of heavily calcified femoropopliteal lesions in preparation for delivery of a Supera interwoven stent. Methods: Data were collected retrospectively on 67 consecutive patients (mean age 71±8 years; 54 men) treated with this technique between November 2011 and February 2017 at a single center. A third (22/64, 34%) of the patients had critical limb ischemia (CLI). Most lesions were TASC D (52/67, 78%), and the majority were occlusions (61/66, 92%). The mean lesion length was 26.9±11.2 cm. Nearly two-thirds (40/64, 62%) had grade 4 calcification (Peripheral Arterial Calcium Scoring System). To prepare for Supera stenting, the most heavily calcified segments of the lesion were predilated aggressively to obliterate recoil. A Viabahn stent-graft was then implanted to “pave” the lesion and protect from vessel rupture as aggressive predilation continued until the calcified plaque was “cracked” before lining the entire lesion with a Supera stent. Patency and target lesion revascularization (TLR) rates were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method. Results: Procedural success was achieved in 100% and technical success (residual stenosis <30%) in 98% (66/67). The mean cumulative stent lengths were 16±9 cm for the Viabahn and 23±12 cm for the Supera. Only 2 complications occurred (distal embolization and access-site pseudoaneurysm). Two CLI patients died within 30 days, and 3 patients (all claudicants) underwent a TLR. Patients were followed for a mean 19±18 months, during which another 2 CLI patients died and 1 patient had a major amputation. One-year primary and secondary patency estimates were 79% and 91%, respectively; freedom from TLR was 85%. Conclusion: Despite severe lesion calcification, patients experienced high technical success and a safe and durable therapy at midterm follow-up with the femoropopliteal “pave-and-crack” technique.
Realizing the potential of real-time clinical collaboration in maternal–fetal and obstetric medicine through WhatsApp
Authors: Carmona Sergio , Alayed Nada , Al-Ibrahim Ali , D’Souza Rohan
Published: March 2018

Background

This study aimed to explore the potential of using instant messaging to enhance patient-care and physician-education in obstetric medicine and maternal–fetal medicine.

Methods

This retrospective study examined real-time correspondence between a closed group of maternal–fetal medicine physicians and fellows-in-training. Correspondence was grouped into four domains. Time to obtain a response and their utility was analysed.

Results

Over the two-year period, 41 international members contributed 534 clinically relevant messages (291 stems and 243 responses). Of these, 33% were advice seeking, 23.4% case-sharing, 35% educational content and 8.2% miscellaneous content. The median response time was 52 min, and 53% responded in less than 60 min. At least one response in each case influenced clinical management.

Conclusion

Instant messaging is effective for real-time clinical collaboration and could serve as an important platform for enhancing management and continuing education for obstetric medicine and maternal–fetal medicine physicians. International societies should consider exploring this avenue further.
Metastatic colorectal cancer during pregnancy: A tertiary center experience and review of the literature
Authors: Lee Shu Fen , Burge Matthew , Eastgate Melissa
Published: March 2018

Background

Colorectal cancer during pregnancy is rare. Diagnosis may be delayed and clinicians are faced with unique challenges when formulating management plans, having to consider the well-being of both fetus and mother.

Cases

Our series outlines five cases of metastatic colorectal cancer during pregnancy. There was one patient who presented in each of the first, second and third trimesters, whilst the remaining were post-partum. Diagnosis was difficult as the patients were either asymptomatic or their symptoms were misconstrued as features of pregnancy. Two patients received chemotherapy while pregnant but only one had a successful delivery. Survival of patients in this series ranged between 1 and 35 months from diagnosis.

Conclusion

Women with gestational colorectal cancer are often diagnosed at an advanced stage and have a poor prognosis.
Emotion Perception as Conceptual Synchrony
Authors: Gendron Maria , Barrett Lisa Feldman
Published: March 2018

Psychological research on emotion perception anchors heavily on an object perception analogy. We present static “cues,” such as facial expressions, as objects for perceivers to categorize. Yet in the real world, emotions play out as dynamic multidimensional events. Current theoretical approaches and research methods are limited in their ability to capture this complexity. We draw on insights from a predictive coding account of neural activity and a grounded cognition account of concept representation to conceive of emotion perception as a stream of synchronized conceptualizations between two individuals, which is supported and shaped by language. We articulate how this framework can illuminate the fundamental need to study culture, as well as other sources of conceptual variation, in unpacking conceptual synchrony in emotion. We close by suggesting that the conceptual system provides the necessary flexibility to overcome gaps in emotional synchrony.
A Christian social answer to globalisation
Authors: van Gennip Jos J.
Published: March 2018

This article discusses whether Christian social thinking is obsolete in the age of globalisation or whether it continues to provide answers to the challenges of the modern world. Some people believe that the heydays of a Christian social alternative to capitalism or to state socialism are over following its successes in the middle of the twentieth century. Social protection and the emancipation of the working class have been achieved, and the distribution of wealth and income has reached a fair level throughout Europe. This article rejects this view and argues that Christian social thinking and its translation into political positions do not belong exclusively to a specific socio-economic phase of history or to a specific socio-economic system. The article also provides Christian social remedies for five aspects of globalisation: financialisation, the distribution of the fruits of globalisation, automation, control mechanisms and environmental protection.
Matrix microcrystalline structure and acoustic properties of oomoldic dolograinstone
Authors: Janson Xavier , Lucia F. Jerry
Published: March 2018

Previous studies have shown that carbonate rock with rounded moldic macropores has a higher compressional velocity at a given porosity than rock with interparticle or intercrystalline porosity and high-aspect-ratio macropores. Our study of Permian dolograinstone challenges this commonly accepted result. Petrophysical and acoustic velocities were measured on 55 mini core plugs collected along an approximately 1 km long horizontal transect within a single grainstone unit having lateral changes from grainstone with dominantly interparticle porosity to grainstone with mostly moldic porosity. The studied dolograinstone samples have a large scattering of acoustic velocity (up to [Formula: see text]) at equal porosity. Some oomoldic grainstone samples have either higher velocity or significantly lower velocity than that of the intercrystalline grainstone samples. Petrographic analysis under plain light and UV light combined with mercury injection capillary pressure data and scanning electron microscopy analysis indicates that moldic samples with a lower than average velocity for a given porosity have a matrix with between 50% and 75% of the total porosity as intercrystalline microporosity between large moldic pores. Conversely, rocks with a higher than average velocity for a given porosity find a lack of micropores in the microcrystalline part of the matrix. The amount of micro- and mesoporosity in the matrix is the primary control on acoustic properties of those moldic dolograinstone samples. Therefore, the matrix microcrystalline structure can exert a stronger control on acoustic property than do the macropore types and shapes. These results indicate that using acoustic data from the subsurface to identify pore shape and reservoir properties still remains a challenge.
Adolescent THC exposure does not sensitize conditioned place preferences to subthreshold d-amphetamine in male and female rats
Authors: Keeley Robin J , Bye Cameron , Trow Jan , McDonald Robert J
Published: March 2018

The acute effects of marijuana consumption on brain physiology and behaviour are well documented, but the long-term effects of its chronic use are less well known. Chronic marijuana use during adolescence is of increased interest, given that the majority of individuals first use marijuana during this developmental stage , and  adolescent marijuana use is thought to increase the susceptibility to abusing other drugs when exposed later in life. It is possible that marijuana use during critical periods in adolescence could lead to increased sensitivity to other drugs of abuse later on. To test this, we chronically administered ∆9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) to male and female Long-Evans (LER) and Wistar (WR) rats directly after puberty onset. Rats matured to postnatal day 90 before being exposed to a conditioned place preference task (CPP). A subthreshold dose of d-amphetamine, found not to induce place preference in drug naïve rats, was used as the unconditioned stimulus. The effect of d-amphetamine on neural activity was inferred by quantifying cfos expression in the nucleus accumbens and dorsal hippocampus following CPP training. Chronic exposure to THC post-puberty had no potentiating effect on a subthreshold dose of d-amphetamine to induce CPP. No differences in cfos expression were observed. These results show that chronic exposure to THC during puberty did not increase sensitivity to d-amphetamine in adult LER and WR rats. This supports the concept that THC may not sensitize the response to all drugs of abuse.
Preliminary investigation of deoxyoligonucleotide binding to ribonuclease A using mass spectrometry: An attempt to develop a lab experience for undergraduates
Authors: Clark Daniel D.
Published: March 2018

Deoxyoligonucleotide binding to bovine pancreatic ribonuclease A (RNase A) was investigated using electrospray ionization ion-trap mass spectrometry (ESI-IT-MS). Deoxyoligonucleotides included CCCCC (dC5) and CCACC (dC2AC2).  This work was an attempt to develop a biochemistry lab experience that would introduce undergraduates to the use of mass spectrometry for the analysis of protein-ligand interactions.  Titration experiments were performed using a fixed RNase A concentration and variable deoxyoligonucleotide concentrations.  Samples at equilibrium were infused directly into the mass spectrometer under native conditions.  For each deoxyoligonucleotide, mass spectra showed one-to-one binding stoichiometry, with marked increases in the total ion abundance of ligand-bound RNase A complexes as a function of concentration, but the accurate determination of dC5and dC2AC2dissociation constants was problematic.
FROZEN CRACKS AS SPECIFIC PATHOLOGICAL TISSUE OF OAK TREES OF OAK RECREATION ZONE OF VORONEZH CITY
Authors: Фурменкова Евгения , Furmenkova Evgeniya , Кочергина Марина , Kochergina Marina , Деревянко Ирина , Derevyanko Irina
Published: March 2018

The article is devoted to the most specific to oak pathological signs in the plantations of the recreational zone of the city of Voronezh. These include frost cracks. Regularities of the manifestation of frost-breaking cracks and their significance are analyzed. On the basis of literature sources it is established that frost cracks appear on the trunk of oaks not only in extremely severe, but also in ordinary winters and affect the best, cleaned from the branches, part of the lower trunk, significantly reducing the yield of valuable assortments. The mechanism of crack formation on the trunks of living trees is given, with rapid and significant lowering of the ambient temperature. Occurrence of this feature in the oak forests of the forest-steppe is identified and analyzed. Evaluation of the role of frost crack in the weakening of oak trees is conducted. The causes and regularities of their appearance in various types of plantations are revealed. The data for all frost cracks are recorded with their differentiation into overgrown and unbroken cracks. Variation of this feature in various plantations is shown. Analysis of the structure of frost crack as a result of a disproportionate thermal contraction of the tissues of the outer and inner parts of the trunk is made. The location of the frost cracks is analyzed depending on the sides of the light and depending on the inclination of the trunk. Manifestations of the occurrence of frost cracks are analyzed depending on the combination of the inclination of the trunk and the sides of the light. Comparative characteristic of frost cracks on height of a trunk and extent on trees of other species is made. As a result, the occurrence of frost cracks in all ripening and ripe oak plantations of the recreational zone of Voronezh has been revealed. The ability of frosts to infect oak trees with stem decay and deteriorate the sanitary state of plantations is revealed. It is determined that frost cracks appear in the draft timber facing the north and east and have a well-defined specificity in place of location and extent.
genetic variability of sukachev's larch (larix sukaczewii djil.) in geographical cultures under Voronezh
Authors: Кулаков Евгений , Kulakov Evgeniy , Сиволапов Владимир , Sivolapov Vladimir , Воробьева Елена , Vorob'eva Elena , Сиволапов Алексей , Sivolapov Aleksey
Published: March 2018

Information on the genetic structure of populations of forest tree plants is the basis for assessing the genetic po-tential of the species. These studies are particularly relevant for economically valuable species and species occupying extensive areas, like larch. Accurate information about the genetic structure of populations, the level of their genetic variability, the nature of its distribution within the range allows us to designate measures aimed at preserving the genet-ic resources of the species for the use in the country's economy and reproduction. During the analysis of electrophoretic spectra of the products of amplification of six nuclear microsatellite loci 42 allelic variants have been identified. An estimation of the genetic polymorphism of the population structure of forest plantations of Sukachev’s larch from the seeds of the Sverdlovsk region by microsatellite analysis for 6 pairs of pri-mers is given.
COMPONENT COMPOSITION AND CHARACTERISTICS OF THE THERMAL DESTRUCTION PROCESS OF BAGASSA
Authors: Везенцев Александр , Vezentsev Alexander , Нгуен Динь Тьиен , Nguen Din' T'ien , Михайлюкова Мария , Mihaylyukova Mariya
Published: March 2018

The production of cane sugar accompanies the formation of a waste called bagasse, which can serve as a source for obtaining sorption-active materials. The purpose of this work was to determine the composition and the characteristics of thermal destruction of bagasse. The composition of the bagasse was determined - 47.59 wt. % cellulose, 26.92 wt. % hemicellulose, 21.53 wt. % lignin, 1.37 wt. % of the substance extracted with organic solvents and 2.59 wt. % of ash. In an oxidizing environment, the destruction of bagasse occurs intensively in the range 230-520°C with the release of thermal energy, in a protective medium in the range 240-395°C without the release of thermal energy.
ROBOTIZED SYSTEM OF POINTING THE GRIPPER-CUTTING DEVICE ON THE TREE
Authors: Мохирев Александр , Mokhirev Aleksandr , Мохирев Иван , Mohirev Ivan , Морозов Дмитрий , Morozov Dmitriy
Published: March 2018

To date, the improvement of forest machines is aimed at increasing productivity using modern information sys-tems. The most complex operation in logging, which requires the experience and skill of the operator, is the manipulator control when gripper-cutting device is pointed to a tree. At "hard" capture of the tree as a result of inaccurate pointing of the manipulator, the sawed tree growing around the undergrowth is damaged, expensive equipment is damaged, there is a risk of tree falling in the undetermined direction, saw mechanism is destroyed. Also the time for pointing the manipulator and capture the tree increases, which significantly reduces the productivity of work. With constant concentration on a complex operation, the operator quickly becomes fatigued, which reduces his/her efficiency and attention. Not precise guidance of the manipulator and "hard" capture of the tree occurs quite often and can happen even with an experienced operator. The operations are performed by one algorithm, which means that they can be automated. In order to eliminate the above-mentioned shortcomings, a system of automatic guidance of gripper-cutting device on a tree and its gripping is proposed. It consists, apart from both technological equipment of the machine itself, a computer with a logging machine control system, two distance sensors, and touch sensor. The distance sensors are installed on the pick-up device and determine the location of the tree. The information from the sensors is fed to the computer of the forest machine, which controls the operating mechanisms of the manipulator of the forest machine. Controlled by the machine control system, actuators of hydromanipulator guide the gripper-cutting device onto the tree. The touch sensor is mounted on the body of the gripping device. When you touch the tree with the sensor, the tree is captured. With such an implementation, the accuracy and speed of guiding the cutting device onto the tree is increased, which leads to a reduction in operator fatigue, increased productivity of the forest machine, reduction of damage to trees and gripping device due to the partial automation of the process of guiding the cutting device on the tree and its capture
THE ROLE OF THE FOREST COMPLEX IN THE SOCIO-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF THE REGION (ON THE EXAMPLE OF THE REPUBLIC OF MARIY EL)
Authors: Мочаева Татьяна , Mochaeva Tat'yana , Шургин Алексей , Shurgin Aleksey , Туев Андрей , Tuev Andrey
Published: March 2018

The strategic goal of the development of the Russian forest complex is to significantly increase its contribution to the national economy by creating an economically sustainable, private and globally competitive group of industries. For this, the products of forest sector of Russia should enjoy equal demand both on domestic and foreign markets. The basic branch of forest complex is forestry, which provides protection, reproduction of forests, regulation of forest man-agement and control over the use of forest resources. The Republic of Mariy El is not distinguished by the presence of a large number of industrially significant natural resources. The main natural wealth of the region is forest, which covers more than 50% of its territory. The forest-growing conditions of the Republic of Mariy El in most of its territory are favorable for the growth of valuable coniferous species. Extensive exploitation of the republic's forests is a difficult period of the beginning and the middle of the 20th century, traditional ways of managing in the forest, aimed primarily at selecting the most valuable timber; insufficient financing of reforestation, forest protection measures; as well as cur-rent market situation of timber currently lead to negative changes in species and commodity structure of the country's forest resources. The locomotive of the growth of the forest complex of the Republic of Mariy El is JSC Mari Pulp and Paper Mill, which largely covers its need for wood raw materials by importing it from outside the region. Enterprises-tenants of forest areas carry out the harvesting of timber and subsequent sale of products with low added value, which reduces the contribution of forestry industries to the economy of the region. Forest recreation should be a strategic di-rection for the development of forest management in the Republic of Mariy El.
The Rights of Indigenous Peoples in Peru
Authors: Kania Marta
Published: March 2018

The purpose of this article is to give a brief overview of the evolution of the socio-political and legal status of indigenous peoples in the Republic of Peru, and to present one particular example of the struggle for respect and implementation of their rights, as enshrined in international documents and the Constitution of Peru (1993). In the article the historical and problematic perspective has been assumed, discussing the problem from Colonial times, when important decisions were made by the Spanish administration regarding legal and political aspects of indigenous peoples’ status. Next it is discussed the Republican period, which was characterized by a policy of integration and forced acculturation of indigenous peoples into Creole-mestizo mainstream of society. Then the article focuses on the 20th century and the first attempts to acknowledge the diversity and cultural and ethnic identity of the indigenous population, albeit as part of a paternalistic indigenism movement. Finally, it examines the recent decades, which saw the introduction of multicultural policy principles in the form of particular amendments to the Constitution and ratification of major international documents relating to the rights of indigenous peoples. This last period is characterized by a new model of relations between the state and indigenous, and represents an official effort to move away from discriminatory and marginalizing attitudes towards the Indian community, although implementation of multicultural principles is still a very difficult process due to the ossified and inflexible system of dependency and indolence at the level of local administration. The article concludes with a case study of Comunidad Nativa Tres Islas (Madre de Dios), one of the native communities which has for years been fighting for the implementation of a favorable decision of the Constitutional Court of Peru, which at the regional level is still not respected.
Analyzing Televised Presidential General Election Debates
Authors: Rzepecka Marta
Published: March 2018

This paper describes how general election presidential debates have changed over the last four decades. It will trace the development of the debate format, the dynamics of visual rhetoric, and the patterns of discourse; and will compare the standards followed by John F. Kennedy and Richard M. Nixon in the first series of general election presidential debates held in 1960, with those followed by Barack Obama and Mitt Romney in the latest series of debates held in 2012. It will also analyze debate videos and transcripts in order to identify the techniques used during both series of debates, and emphasize the similarities, differences, and effectiveness thereof. Considering the growing influence of the media on presidential campaigns over the last forty years, it is assumed that the rules and format for debates, as well as the dynamics of visual rhetoric and functions of debate discourse, have changed. This stands in contrast to the role of such debates in managing and guiding public opinion during elections, which has remained the same.
Advising families on appropriate car seat safety
Authors: Noakes Amy
Published: March 2018

Car safety is an important health promotion consideration and, for health visitors, providing families with information on the appropriate use of car seats should be a priority.