bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abortion by telemedicine in the European Union
Authors: Hervey Tamara , Sheldon Sally
Published: December 2018

This paper analyses an important set of legal issues raised by the telemedical provision of abortion pills. Focusing on the case of European Union (EU) law, it suggests that a properly accredited doctor seeking to treat a patient with abortion pills is entitled, in principle, to rely on EU rules of free movement to protect their access to patients in other member states, and women facing unwanted pregnancies likewise have legal rights to access the services thus offered. EU countries seeking to claim an exception to those rules on the basis of public health or the protection of a fundamental public policy interest (here, the protection of fetal life) will face significant barriers.
miR‐202 modulates the progression of neuropathic pain through targeting RAP1A
Authors: Fang Baojun , Wei Limin , Dong Kejun , Niu Xiaohui , Sui Xiuhui , Zhang Hongquan
Published: December 2018

Neuropathic pain is a somatosensory disorder which is caused by disease or nerve injury that affects the nervous system. microRNAs (miRNAs) are proved to play crucial roles in the development of neuropathic pain. However, the role of miR‐202 in neuropathic pain is still unknown. Sprague‐Dawley rats were used for constructing the neuropathic pain model. The expression of miR‐202 was determined by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Potential target gene for miR‐202 was measured using bioinformatics methods and Western blot analysis. In this study, we used rats to establish a neuropathic pain model and measured the effect of miR‐202 in neuropathic pain. We demonstrated that miR‐202 expression was downregulated in the spinal dorsal horn of bilateral sciatic nerve chronic constriction injury (bCCI) rat. However, miR‐202 expression was not changed in the dorsal root ganglion, hippocampus, and anterior cingulated cortex of bCCI rat. We identified that RAP1A was a direct target gene of miR‐202 in the PC12 cell. RAP1A expression was upregulated in the spinal dorsal horn of bCCI rat. Overexpression of miR‐202 could improve the pain threshold for bCCI rats in both hindpaws, indicating that miR‐202 overexpression could lighten the pain threshold for model rats. Moreover, RAP1A overexpression increased the pain threshold effect of miR‐202 overexpression treated bCCI rats, indicating that miR‐202 could lighten the pain threshold through inhibiting RAP1A expression. These data suggested that miR‐202 acted pivotal roles in the development of neuropathic pain partly through targeting RAP1A gene.
Mitochondrial DNA plays an important role in lung injury induced by sepsis
Authors: Zeng Zhenguo , Li Dan , Liu Fen , Zhou Chaoqi , Shao Qiang , Ding Chengzhi , Qing Cheng , Wang Xuzhen , Hu Zhiguo , Qian Kejian
Published: December 2018

The effects and mechanisms of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) in the development of sepsis‐induced lung injury is not well understood. In our present study, we studied the mtDNA effects in sepsis‐induced lung injury model, in vitro and in vivo. Compared with the Normal group, the lung histopathological score, the number of positive apoptosis cell, wet/dry (W/D) ratio and TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐6 concentrations of lipopolysaccharides (LPSs) and mtDNA groups were significantly increased (P < 0.001, respectively). Meanwhile, the lung histopathological score, positive W/D ratio, number of apoptosis cell and tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), interleukin (IL)‐1β, and IL‐6 concentrations of LPS + mtDNA and small interfering RNA (siRNA)‐NC + LPS + mtDNA groups were significantly upregulated compared with those of LPS group (P < 0.05, respectively). However, the lung histopathological score, the number of positive apoptosis cell, W/D ratio and TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐6 concentrations were significantly improved within the toll‐like receptor (TLR9)siRNA + LPS + mtDNA group compared with the LPS group (P < 0.01, respectively). The TLR9, MyD88, and NF‐κB proteins or gene expressions of the LPS group and mtDNA group were significantly upregulated compared with those of Normal group by Western blot analysis or immunohistochemistry assay (P < 0.01, respectively), and the TLR9, MyD88, and NF‐κB proteins or gene expressions of LPS + mtDNA and siRNA‐NC + LPS + mtDNA groups were significantly enhanced compared with those of LPS group (P < 0.05, respectively). However, the TLR9, MyD88, and NF‐κB proteins or gene expressions of TLR9siRNA + LPS + mtDNA group were significantly suppressed compared with those of the LPS group (P < 0.01, respectively). In conclusion, mtDNA could provoke lung injury induced by sepsis via regulation of TLR9/MyD88/NF‐κB pathway in vitro and in vivo.
MicroRNA‐590‐3P suppresses cell survival and triggers breast cancer cell apoptosis via targeting sirtuin‐1 and deacetylation of p53
Authors: Abdolvahabi Zohreh , Nourbakhsh Mitra , Hosseinkhani Saman , Hesari Zahra , Alipour Mohsen , Jafarzadeh Meisam , Ghorbanhosseini Seyedeh Sara , Seiri Parvaneh , Yousefi Zeynab , yarahmadi Sahar , Golpour Pegah
Published: December 2018

Downregulation of microRNA‐590‐3p (miR‐590‐3p) is a frequently occurring, nonphysiological event which is observed in several human cancers, especially breast cancer. However, the significance of miR‐590‐3p still remain unclear in the progression of this disease. This study explored the role of miR‐590‐3p in apoptosis of breast cancer cells. Gene expression of miR‐590‐3p, Sirtuin‐1 (SIRT1), Bcl‐2 associated X protein (BAX), and p21 was evaluated with real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and SIRT1 protein expression was assessed by Western blot analysis in breast cancer cell lines. Bioinformatics analysis and luciferase reporter assay were used to evaluate targeting of SIRT1 messenger RNA (mRNA) by miR‐590‐3p. Cells were transfected with miR‐590‐3p mimic and inhibitor and their effects on the expression and activity of SIRT1 were evaluated. The effects of miR‐590‐3p upregulation on the acetylation of p53 as well as cell viability and apoptosis were assessed by Western blot analysis, WST‐1 assay, and flow cytometry, respectively. miR‐590‐3p expression was considerably downregulated in breast cancer cells which was accompanied by upregulation of SIRT1 expression. SIRT1 was recognized as a direct target for miR‐590‐3p in breast cancer cells and its protein expression and activity was dramatically inhibited by the miR‐590‐3p. In addition, there was an increase in p53 and its acetylated form that ultimately led to upregulation of BAX and p21 expression, suppression of cell survival, and considerable induction of apoptosis in breast cancer cells. These findings suggest that miR‐590‐3p exerts tumor‐suppressing effects through targeting SIRT1 in breast cancer cells, which makes it a potential therapeutic target for developing more efficient treatments for breast cancer.
Electronic and nuclear flux analysis on nonadiabatic electron transfer reaction: A view from single‐configuration adiabatic born–huang representation
Authors: Matsuzaki Rei , Takatsuka Kazuo
Published: December 2018

A detailed flux analysis on nonadiabatically coupled electronic and nuclear dynamics in the intramolecular electron transfer of LiF is presented. Full quantum dynamics both of electrons and nuclei within two‐state model has uncovered interesting features of the individual fluxes (current of probability density) and correlation between them. In particular, a spatiotemporal oscillatory pattern of electronic flux has been revealed, which reflects the coherence coming from spatiotemporal differential overlap between nuclear wavepackets running on covalent and ionic potential curves. In this regard, a theoretical analogy between the nonadiabatic transitions and the Rabi oscillation is surveyed. We also present a flux–flux correlation between the nuclear and electronic motions, which quantifies the extent of deviation of the actual electronic and nuclear coupled dynamics from the Born–Oppenheimer adiabatic limit, which is composed only of a single product of the adiabatic electronic and nuclear wavefunctions. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Popularity and Intensity of Engineering Undergraduate Out‐of‐Class Activities
Authors: Simmons Denise R. , Van Mullekom Jennifer , Ohland Matthew W.
Published: December 2018

Background

Although researchers have documented the outcomes of various out‐of‐class activities for undergraduate students, less attention has been given to student perspectives on activity category and activity levels, particularly when considering demographics such as gender and race/ethnicity.

Purpose/Hypothesis

This study aims to create a more nuanced profile of engineering undergraduate engagement in out‐of‐class activities disaggregated by gender, race/ethnicity, and level of activity. As an exploratory study, its goal is to identify patterns that can be explored in the future.

Design/Method

A purposive sample of 649 engineering students from three institutions provided complete survey responses that were quantitatively analyzed using frequency tables, diverging bar charts, and calculated odds ratios. This study included an intentional focus on gender and racial/ethnic differences.

Results

Job and Sports were most commonly identified as the top out‐of‐class activity for engineering students. Select pre‐professional activities and activities related to the humanities, arts, environment, and civic life were identified less frequently as top activities. Significant differences in choice of top activity and level of activity were found when comparing students by gender and race/ethnicity.

Conclusion

A better understanding of engineering student engagement in out‐of‐class activities helps guide actions of program administrators and educators and the direction of future research exploring out‐of‐class engagement. Such opportunities can be shaped to improve engagement, particularly among underrepresented groups.
Responsible tourism in Bangkok, Thailand: Resident perceptions of Chinese tourist behaviour
Authors: Gong Jian , Detchkhajornjaroensri Pornpen , Knight David W.
Published: December 2018

This study uses mixed methods to assess resident views of Chinese tourist behaviour in the world's, and China's, most travelled to destination: Bangkok, Thailand. Analysis of 10 semistructured interviews informed the creation of a responsible tourism framework and subsequent survey administered to residents at three scenic spots in the city. Multiple linear regression tested three responsible tourism indices in predicting whether residents considered Chinese tourist behaviour to be responsible overall. Findings highlight environmentally ethical behaviour as a key component of responsible tourist action, providing theoretical insights into what comprises responsible tourism and presenting implications for behaviour‐based analyses of destination sustainability.
Neonatal Bicycling Movements Associated With a Basal Ganglia Stroke
Authors: McKeown Monica D. , Graveline Justin , Thulasirajah Salini , Pohl Daniela
Published: December 2018

View Supplementary Video 1
Linear stability for a free boundary tumor model with a periodic supply of external nutrients
Authors: Huang Yaodan , Zhang Zhengce , Hu Bei
Published: December 2018

In this paper, we consider a free boundary tumor model with a periodic supply of external nutrients, so that the nutrient concentration σ satisfies σ = ϕ(t) on the boundary, where ϕ(t) is a positive periodic function with period T. A parameter μ in the model is proportional to the “aggressiveness” of the tumor. If
, where
is a threshold concentration for proliferation, Bai and Xu [Pac J Appl Math. 2013;5;217‐223] proved that there exists a unique radially symmetric T‐periodic positive solution (σ∗(r,t),p∗(r,t),R∗(t)), which is stable for any μ > 0 with respect to all radially symmetric perturbations. We prove that under nonradially symmetric perturbations, there exists a number μ∗ such that if 0 < μ < μ∗, then the T‐periodic solution is linearly stable, whereas if μ > μ∗, then the T‐periodic solution is linearly unstable.
Dietary Prevention of Colitis by Aronia Berry is Mediated Through Increased Th17 and Treg
Authors: Pei Ruisong , Martin Derek A. , Valdez Jonathan C. , Liu Jiyuan , Kerby Robert L. , Rey Federico E. , Smyth Joan A. , Liu Zhenhua , Bolling Bradley W.
Published: December 2018

Scope

Increased fruit consumption is associated with reduced risk of colitis. It has been investigated whether the anti‐colitic effects of the polyphenol‐rich aronia berry (Aronia mitschurinii ‘Viking’) are mediated through Th17 and Treg.

Methods and results

Colitis is induced in recombinase activating gene‐1 deficient mice injected with syngeneic CD4+CD62L+ naïve T cells. Mice consume either 4.5% w/w aronia‐berry‐supplemented or a control diet concurrent with T cell transfer. The extent of colitis and immunocyte populations are evaluated at weeks 3 to 7 after transfer. Aronia consumption prevents colitic wasting and reduces colon weight/length ratios relative to the control diet at weeks 5 and 7. Compared to the control diet, aronia feeding increases Treg in mesenteric lymph node at all colitis stages. Treg and regulatory Th17 subpopulations (IL‐17A+IL‐10+ and IL‐17A+IL‐22+) are increased in lamina propria and spleen at week 5 in aronia‐fed mice. Aronia feeding also decreases total CD4+ cells but increases colonic Tregs. The ability of aronia to modulate colonic cytokines is associated with functional T cell IL‐10 and increased diversity of microbiota.

Conclusions

Aronia berry consumption inhibits adoptive transfer colitis by increasing Treg and regulatory Th17 cells. Dietary modulation of T cells is dynamic and precedes colitic wasting.
The scaled boundary finite element method for computational homogenization of heterogeneous media
Authors: Talebi Hossein , Silani Mohammad , Klusemann Benjamin
Published: December 2018

Materials exhibit macroscopic properties that are dependent on the underlying components at lower scales. Computational homogenization using the finite element method (FEM) is often used to determine the effective mechanical properties based on the microstructure. However, the use of FEM might suffer from several difficulties such as mesh generation, application of periodic boundary conditions or computations in presence of material interfaces, and further discontinuities. In this paper, we present an alternative approach for computational homogenization of heterogeneous structures based on the scaled boundary finite element method (SBFEM). Based on quadtrees, we are applying a simple meshing strategy to create polygonal elements for arbitrary complex microstructures by using a relatively small number of elements. We show on selected numerical examples that the proposed computational homogenization technique represents a suitable alternative to classical FEM approaches capable of avoiding some of the mentioned difficulties while accurately and effectively calculating the macroscopic mechanical properties. An example of a two‐scale semiconcurrent coupling between FEM and SBFEM is presented, illustrating the complementarity of both approaches.
Discontinuous Galerkin methods for solving a hyperbolic inequality
Authors: Wang Fei , Han Weimin
Published: December 2018

In this paper, we study spatially semi‐discrete and fully discrete schemes to numerically solve a hyperbolic variational inequality, with discontinuous Galerkin (DG) discretization in space and finite difference discretization in time. Under appropriate regularity assumptions on the solution, a unified error analysis is established for four DG schemes, which reaches the optimal convergence order for linear elements. A numerical example is presented, and the numerical results confirm the theoretical error estimates.
Maximum norm error analysis of an unconditionally stable semi‐implicit scheme for multi‐dimensional Allen–Cahn equations
Authors: He Dongdong , Pan Kejia
Published: December 2018

In this paper, a linearized finite difference scheme is proposed for solving the multi‐dimensional Allen–Cahn equation. In the scheme, a modified leap‐frog scheme is used for the time discretization, the nonlinear term is treated in a semi‐implicit way, and the central difference scheme is used for the discretization in space. The proposed method satisfies the discrete energy decay property and is unconditionally stable. Moreover, a maximum norm error analysis is carried out in a rigorous way to show that the method is second‐order accurate both in time and space variables. Finally, numerical tests for both two‐ and three‐dimensional problems are provided to confirm our theoretical findings.
Advanced paternal age, infertility, and reproductive risks: A review of the literature
Authors: Brandt Justin S. , Cruz Ithier Mayra A. , Rosen Todd , Ashkinadze Elena
Published: December 2018

Advanced paternal age (APA) is associated with infertility and other reproductive risks. Studies looking at APA and outcomes have used different paternal age cut‐offs, which has complicated systematic evaluations of reproductive risk associated with paternal aging. This review of the literature suggests that the impact of paternal aging on adverse reproductive outcomes is small, but significant. Studies suggest the incidence of paternal age effect disorders attributed to de novo autosomal dominant mutations is less than 0.5%. Other risks associated with APA include infertility, miscarriage, birth defects, poor neurodevelopmental outcomes, and childhood cancer. Although the increasing prevalence of APA has mirrored the rise in maternal age, this topic has not received similar attention. In this review, we summarize the available literature on the reproductive risks associated with APA to provide a framework for comprehensive genetic counseling and evidence‐based management of APA pregnancies.
Antifouling poly(vinylidene fluoride) hollow fiber membrane with hydrophilic surfaces by ultrasonic wave‐assisted graft polymerization
Authors: Qi Yating , Shao Huiju , Luo Dajun , Xiang Li , Luo Jiyong , Tian Qin , Qin Shuhao
Published: December 2018

Acrylic acid (AA)‐grafted poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) hollow fiber membrane was obtained by ultrasonic wave‐assisted graft polymerization. The grafting density (GD) of AA on the PVDF membrane surface could be controlled by altering the reaction conditions, such as ultrasonic time, ultrasonic power, monomer concentration and initiator concentration. The attenuated total reflectant Fourier transform infrared spectra (FITR‐ATR) and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy were used to investigate the chemical composition of modified membranes. The changes of surface morphology and roughness were characterized by field emission scanning electron microscope and atomic force microscopy. Results show that AA was successfully grafted on the membrane surface. With increasing GD, the static water contact angle was decreased from 95.7 to 41.4°, indicating that hydrophilicity of modified membrane was significantly enhanced. Pure water flux before and after bovine serum albumin (BSA) contamination was measured. The modified membrane with the GD of 0.76 mg/cm2 has the highest water flux as high as 350 L/m2·h. When compared with the pristine membrane(M0), the flux recovered ratio was improved from 52.75 to 96.29% at the GD 2.76 mg/cm2 (M3), which suggested the protein fouling could be effectively prevented for the modified membrane. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2018. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers POLYM. ENG. SCI., 59:E446–E454, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Optimization of fiber prediction model coefficients in injection molding simulation based on micro computed tomography
Authors: Morak Matthias , Tscharnuter Daniel , Lucyshyn Thomas , Hahn Wolfram , Göttlinger Michael , Kummer Maximilian , Steinberger Robin , Gross Thomas
Published: December 2018

Fiber‐reinforced thermoplastic for low weight application become increasingly important for many industrial branches. During the injection molding of short fiber‐reinforced thermoplastic parts the fibers become orientated. This orientation is determined on the one hand by the geometry of the part, and on the other hand by the injection molding parameters, and influence the mechanical behavior of the part. The determination of the fiber properties that is, the orientation distribution of the fibers, is therefore of considerable interest. Since a more accurate fiber orientation prediction of the injection molding simulation will lead to a more precise structural simulation the objective of the present work is to achieve a preferably accurate orientation distribution. To describe the orientation distribution of the fibers, the fiber orientation tensor defined by Advani and Tucker (Advani and Tucker, Journal of Rheology, 31, 751 (1987)) was used. To determine the entries of this tensor micro computed tomography scans (μCT‐scans) of an injection‐molded plate, as well as an injection‐molded specimen with different cross section and shape were performed. Injection molding simulation using Autodesk Moldflow Insight were carried out. The residual strain closure (RSC) model was the underlying model to depict the fiber orientation distribution, or rather the orientation tensors. The two model parameters, the fiber interaction coefficient Ci and the scalar factor κ, were adapted by an optimization procedure, in such a way that the orientation distributions of the simulations fit the results of the μCT‐analysis at its best. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 59:E152–E160, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Proteins Regulating Microvesicle Biogenesis and Multidrug Resistance in Cancer
Authors: Taylor Jack , Bebawy Mary
Published: December 2018

Microvesicles (MV) are emerging as important mediators of intercellular communication. While MVs are important signaling vectors for many physiological processes, they are also implicated in cancer pathology and progression. Cellular activation is perhaps the most widely reported initiator of MV biogenesis, however, the precise mechanism remains undefined. Uncovering the proteins involved in regulating MV biogenesis is of interest given their role in the dissemination of deleterious cancer traits. MVs shed from drug‐resistant cancer cells transfer multidrug resistance (MDR) proteins to drug‐sensitive cells and confer the MDR phenotype in a matter of hours. MDR is attributed to the overexpression of ABC transporters, primarily P‐glycoprotein and MRP1. Their expression and functionality is dependent on a number of proteins. In particular, FERM domain proteins have been implicated in supporting the functionality of efflux transporters in drug‐resistant cells and in recipient cells during intercellular transfer by vesicles. Herein, the most recent research on the proteins involved in MV biogenesis and in the dissemination of MV‐mediated MDR are discussed. Attention is drawn to unanswered questions in the literature that may prove to be of benefit in ongoing efforts to improve clinical response to chemotherapy and circumventing MDR.
Prediction of folding mechanisms for Ig‐like beta sandwich proteins based on inter‐residue average distance statistics methods
Authors: Aumpuchin Panyavut , Kikuchi Takeshi
Published: December 2018

To understand the folding mechanism of a protein is one of the goals in bioinformatics study. Nowadays, it is enigmatic and difficult to extract folding information from amino acid sequence using standard bioinformatics techniques or even experimental protocols which can be time consuming. To overcome these problems, we aim to extract the initial folding unit for titin protein (Ig and fnIII domains) by means of inter‐residue average distance statistics, Average Distance Map (ADM) and contact frequency analysis (F‐value). TI I27 and TNfn3 domains are used to represent the Ig‐domain and fnIII‐domain, respectively. Beta‐strands 2, 3, 5, and 6 are significant for the initial folding processes of TI I27. The central strands of TNfn3 were predicted as a primary folding segment. Known 3D structure and unknown 3D structure domains were investigated by structure or non‐structure based multiple sequence alignment, respectively, to learn the conserved hydrophobic residues and predicted compact region relevant to evolution. Our results show good correspondence to experimental data, phi‐value and protection factor from H‐D exchange experiments. The significance of conserved hydrophobic residues near F‐value peaks for structural stability using hydrophobic packing is confirmed. Our prediction methods once again could extract a folding mechanism only knowing the amino acid sequence.
AssessingCYP2C19 Ontogeny in Neonates and Infants Using Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Models: Impact of Enzyme Maturation Versus Inhibition
Authors: Duan Peng , Wu Fang , Moore Jason N. , Fisher Jeffrey , Crentsil Victor , Gonzalez Daniel , Zhang Lei , Burckart Gilbert J. , Wang Jian
Published: December 2018

The objective of this study was to develop pediatric physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) models for pantoprazole and esomeprazole. PediatricPBPKmodels were developed by Simcyp version 15 by incorporating cytochrome P450 (CYP)2C19 maturation and auto‐inhibition. The predicted‐to‐observed pantoprazole clearance (CL) ratio ranged from 0.96–1.35 in children 1–17 years of age and 0.43–0.70 in term infants. The predicted‐to‐observed esomeprazole CL ratio ranged from 1.08–1.50 for children 6–17 years of age, and 0.15–0.33 for infants. The prediction was markedly improved by assuming no auto‐inhibition of esomeprazole in infants in thePBPKmodel. Our results suggested that theCYP2C19 auto‐inhibition model was appropriate for esomeprazole in adults and older children but could not be directly extended to infants. A better understanding of the complex interplay of enzyme maturation, inhibition, and compensatory mechanisms forCYP2C19 is necessary forPBPKmodeling in infants.
Structure, Ionic Transport Properties and Scaling Behavior of Eu, Pr, and Sm Co‐Doped Ceria Oxygen Ion Conductors
Authors: Anirban Sk. , Dutta Abhigyan
Published: December 2018

In this work, structural, electrical, and scaling behavior of Eu, Pr, and Sm co‐doped ceria‐based ionic conductors are reported. The materials are prepared using citrate‐auto ignition method. The average particle size is found to be within 20 nm. The values of lattice parameter are found to depend on the ionic radius of dopants. Sm–Eu co‐doped ceria shows the highest conductivity and lowest activation energy for the conduction. Pr–Sm co‐doped ceria shows highest and Sm–Eu co‐doped ceria shows lowest migration energy. The values of dc conductivity are found to be consistent with the charge carrier concentration. The relaxation phenomenon is investigated using Cole–Davidson formalism. The scaling behavior of complex impedance plots, impedance and modulus spectra confirm the temperature and dopant‐independent conduction and relaxation mechanism. The impact of multivalency of Pr on conductivity and relaxation is also discussed.
Technology, psychiatry, and answering the ultimate question
Authors: Price Lawrence H.
Published: December 2018

Have the technological and scientific advances of the past 20 years changed your day‐to‐day clinical practice much? I'm not talking about electronic medical records (we don't have enough time to get into that conversation)—I'm talking about how you actually diagnose and implement treatment for your patients. If you are like the vast majority of American psychiatrists (and I have no reason to think our readership is substantively different), your answer is going to be “No.” It is a sad and hard truth, but even the remarkable progress made by our colleagues in the basic and applied neurosciences, much as it has transformed our understanding of neurobehavioral dysfunction, has had little impact on how we care for our patients.
Transitions in the wintertime near‐surface temperature inversion at Dome C, Antarctica
Authors: Baas Peter , van de Wiel Bas J. H. , van Meijgaard Erik , Vignon Etienne , Genthon Christophe , van der Linden Steven J. A. , de Roode Stephan R.
Published: December 2018

In this work we study the dynamics of the surface‐based temperature inversion over the Antarctic Plateau during the polar winter. Using 6 years of observations from the French–Italian Antarctic station Concordia at Dome C, we investigate sudden regime transitions in the strength of the near‐surface temperature inversion. Here we define “near‐surface” as being within the domain of the 45‐m measuring tower. In particular, we consider the strongly nonlinear relation between the 10‐m inversion strength (T10m – Ts) and the 10‐m wind speed.

To this end, all individual events for which the 10‐m inversion strength increases or decreases continuously by more than 15 K in time are considered. Composite time series and vertical profiles of wind and temperature reveal specific characteristics of the transition from weak to very strong inversions and vice versa. In contrast to midlatitudes, the largest variations in temperature are not found at the surface but at a height of 10 m.

A similar analysis was performed on results from an atmospheric single‐column model (SCM). Overall, the SCM results reproduce the observed characteristics of the transitions in the near‐surface inversion remarkably well. Using model output, the underlying mechanisms of the regime transitions are identified. The nonlinear relation between inversion strength and wind speed at a given level is explained by variations in the geostrophic wind speed, changes in the depth of the turbulent layer and the vertical divergence of turbulent fluxes. Moreover, the transitions between different boundary layer regimes cannot be explained without considering the contribution of subsidence heating.
A Novel Shim-Assisted Resistance Spot Welding Process to Improve Weldability of Medium-Mn Transformation-Induced Plasticity Steel
Authors: Li Shuoshuo , Yang Shanglu , Lu Qi , Luo Haiwen , Tao Wu
Published: December 2018

Medium-Mn transformation-induced plasticity steels have great potential to significantly reduce vehicle weight and improve fuel economy due to their outstanding combination of high strength and excellent ductility. One bottleneck to the application is their poor weldability resulting from their high Mn contents. In this paper, three resistance spot welding set-ups, including no shim, an interstitial-free steel shim at the faying interface (shim-in) and shims against the electrodes (shim-out), were incorporated to investigate the weldability of Fe-7Mn-0.14C medium-Mn steel. Tensile-shear, cross-tension, and microhardness tests were used to evaluate the mechanical properties of the welds. Experimental results demonstrated that the failure mode of the welds transitioned from the interfacial fracture in the case of no shim to the desired nugget pull-out fracture in the shim-out set-up, resulting in dramatical improvements in both peak loads and their corresponding extensions during the tensile-shear and cross-tension tests. In contrast, the shim-in set-up made no improvement. What can contribute to such improvement was then discussed on the basis of observed morphologies and microstructures of welds.
The integration of emerging omics approaches to advance precision medicine: How can regulatory science help?
Authors: Adamo Joan E. , Bienvenu Robert V. , Fields F. Owen , Ghosh Soma , Jones Christina M. , Liebman Michael , Lowenthal Mark S. , Steele Scott J.
Published: December 2018

Building on the recent advances in next-generation sequencing, the integration of genomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and other approaches hold tremendous promise for precision medicine. The approval and adoption of these rapidly advancing technologies and methods presents several regulatory science considerations that need to be addressed. To better understand and address these regulatory science issues, a Clinical and Translational Science Award Working Group convened the Regulatory Science to Advance Precision Medicine Forum. The Forum identified an initial set of regulatory science gaps. The final set of key findings and recommendations provided here address issues related to the lack of standardization of complex tests, preclinical issues, establishing clinical validity and utility, pharmacogenomics considerations, and knowledge gaps.
Disembedded Politics: Neoliberal Reform and Labour Market Institutions in Central and Eastern Europe
Authors: Pula Besnik
Published: December 2018

Defying predictions of radical liberalization, labour market institutions in post-socialist Central and Eastern Europe are characterized by relatively protective employment legislation, sometimes combined with collective bargaining rights. However, not all protective employment regimes survived political attack by neoliberal reformers. Existing theories in comparative political economy suggest that employment regimes reflect the relative political power of producer groups. Others have suggested that in Central and Eastern Europe the content of labour market reform was determined by the coercive influence of transnational actors. Through a comparative analysis of labour market reform in Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Romania and Slovakia, this article finds that trade unions played a key role in early institutional settlements over labour markets. However, in Romania and Slovakia, these institutional settlements were subsequently undermined by attacks by ideologically motivated domestic elites in episodes of disembedded politics. The article develops the concept of disembedded politics and demonstrates its importance in post-socialist institutional change.
Human factors–based risk analysis to improve the safety of doffing enhanced personal protective equipment
Authors: Gurses Ayse P. , Dietz Aaron S. , Nowakowski Elaine , Andonian Jennifer , Schiffhauer Maggie , Billman Carrie , Abashian Anya M. , Trexler Polly , Osei Patience , Benishek Lauren E. , Xie Anping , Pronovost Peter , Rosen Michael A. , Maragakis Lisa L. ,   for the CDC Prevention Epicenter Program
Published: December 2018

Objective

To systematically assess enhanced personal protective equipment (PPE) doffing safety risks.

Design

We employed a 3-part approach to this study: (1) hierarchical task analysis (HTA) of the PPE doffing process; (2) human factors-informed failure modes and effects analysis (FMEA); and (3) focus group sessions with a convenience sample of infection prevention (IP) subject matter experts.

Setting

A large academic US hospital with a regional Special Pathogens Treatment Center and enhanced PPE doffing protocol experience.

Participants

Eight IP experts.

Methods

The HTA was conducted jointly by 2 human-factors experts based on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention PPE guidelines. The findings were used as a guide in 7 focus group sessions with IP experts to assess PPE doffing safety risks. For each HTA task step, IP experts identified failure mode(s), assigned priority risk scores, identified contributing factors and potential consequences, and identified potential risk mitigation strategies. Data were recorded in a tabular format during the sessions.

Results

Of 103 identified failure modes, the highest priority scores were associated with team members moving between clean and contaminated areas, glove removal, apron removal, and self-inspection while preparing to doff. Contributing factors related to the individual (eg, technical/ teamwork competency), task (eg, undetected PPE contamination), tools/technology (eg, PPE design characteristics), environment (eg, inadequate space), and organizational aspects (eg, training) were identified. Participants identified 86 types of risk mitigation strategies targeting the failure modes.

Conclusions

Despite detailed guidelines, our study revealed 103 enhanced PPE doffing failure modes. Analysis of the failure modes suggests potential mitigation strategies to decrease self-contamination risk during enhanced PPE doffing.
Rites of Passage: Mortuary Practice, Population Dynamics, and Chronology at the Carrowkeel Passage Tomb Complex, Co. Sligo, Ireland
Authors: Kador Thomas , Cassidy Lara M. , Geber Jonny , Hensey Robert , Meehan Pádraig , Moore Sam
Published: December 2018

The first detailed investigation of the human remains from the Carrowkeel passage tomb complex since their excavation in 1911 has revealed several new and important insights about life, death, and mortuary practice in Neolithic Ireland. Osteological analysis provides the first conclusive proof for the occurrence of dismemberment of the dead at Irish passage tombs, practised contemporarily with cremation as one of a suite of funerary treatments. The research also highlights changes in burial tradition at the complex over the course of the Neolithic. Providing a chronology for these changes allows them to be linked to wider trends in monument construction, which may relate to changes in both land use and climate during the period. Multi-isotope analysis hints at the presence of non-local individuals among the interred and the possible existence of different food sourcing areas at the onset of the later Neolithic period. Preliminary results from ancient DNA sequencing of six individuals from Carrowkeel provide evidence for the genetic ancestry of Irish Neolithic populations, demonstrating their Anatolian origins and links along the Atlantic façade.
Lake-level variability in Salar de Coipasa, Bolivia during the past ∼40,000 yr
Authors: Nunnery J. Andrew , Fritz Sherilyn C. , Baker Paul A. , Salenbien Wout
Published: December 2018

Various paleoclimatic records have been used to reconstruct the hydrologic history of the Altiplano, relating this history to past variability of the South American summer monsoon. Prior studies of the southern Altiplano, the location of the world’s largest salt flat, the Salar de Uyuni, and its neighbor, the Salar de Coipasa, generally agree in their reconstructions of the climate history of the past ∼24 ka. Some studies, however, have highly divergent climatic records and interpretations of earlier periods. In this study, lake-level variation was reconstructed from a ∼14-m-long sediment core from the Salar de Coipasa. These sediments span the last ∼40 ka. Lacustrine sediment accumulation was apparently continuous in the basin from ∼40 to 6 ka, with dry or very shallow conditions afterward. The fossil diatom stratigraphy and geochemical data (δ13C, δ15N, %Ca, C/N) indicate fluctuations in lake level from shallow to moderately deep, with the deepest conditions correlative with the Heinrich-1 and Younger Dryas events. The stratigraphy shows a continuous lake of variable depth and salinity during the last glacial maximum and latter stages of Marine Oxygen Isotope Stage 3 and is consistent with environmental inferences and the original chronology of a drill core from Salar de Uyuni.
In Bangladesh: Direct Control of Media Trumps Fake News
Authors: Ahmed K. Anis
Published: December 2018

Mainstream media faces challenges in developed democracies like never before. On one hand, seemingly “free” digital (including social media) options are eroding the market for print drastically. Ads are not so much shifting from print to digital, but apparently simply disappearing. In the face of the pressures stemming from changing economics of the news business—which still has to be gathered at great expense, even if it can be distributed or shared by third parties practically for free (denying the gatherers their share of revenue)—one now encounters a new form of threat that is more political and cultural, namely, “fake news” and state and nonstate actors who wield it to undermine the public's trust in traditional media or news sources.
Variable sialic acid content in milk of Indian cattle and buffalo across different stages of lactation
Authors: Sharma Rekha , Ahlawat Sonika , Sharma Himani , Aggarwal R.A.K. , Sharma Vivek , Tantia M.S.
Published: December 2018

The aim of this Research Communication was to contribute to the knowledge of milk sialic acid concentration of bovines with specific focus on India. Sialic acids (SA) are important constituents of mammalian milks. Buffaloes are the main milk producing species in India, therefore, our research focused on both cow and buffalo. Two Indian cattle (Bos indicus) breeds (Sahiwal, Tharparkar), one cross bred cattle – Karan Fries (Tharparkar × Holstein Friesian) and a buffalo breed (Murrah) were selected. Systematic comparisons of the total, free and bound form of SA and also its distribution over the course of lactation- colostrums and mature milk (120–140 d) was generated. Animal management, sample collection and methodology of SA estimation were identical for the different groups. Colostrum had the highest concentration of SA, which declined with the progress of lactation in all the groups. Majority of the SA existed in bound form. No significant (P < 0.05) difference was recorded in the total, bound or free SA across all the groups. However, differences were obvious in the total and bound SA level in the mature milk. Indian cattle, Sahiwal and Tharparkar were equivalent, but had higher concentration of total and bound SA than crossbred cattle. Milk of buffalo had SA equivalent to that of crossbred cattle. The mean (se) levels of total SA was 23.4 (0.8), 25.8 (2.4), 20.3 (0.6) and 20.2 (1.2) in Sahiwal, Tharparkar, cross bred and Murrah buffalo, respectively. The findings suggested that milk of indigenous cattle may be a potential source of SA, a bioactive compound with beneficial effect on human health and a potential functional ingredient in foods. Results add value to the currently declining indigenous cattle of India.
An amended description of two Gyrodactylus species (Platyhelminthes: Monogenea) parasitizing Antarctic Notothenioid fish
Authors: Heglasová I. , Nezhybová V. , Přikrylová I.
Published: December 2018

Species identification based on the morphometry of opisthaptoral hard parts, in combination with internal transcribed spacer ribosomal DNA (ITS rDNA) region sequences, confirmed the presence of four viviparous Gyrodactylus von Nordman, 1832 (Plathyhelminthes, Monogenea) species on Nototheniid fish from the Prince Gustav Channel (Weddell Sea, Antarctica). Gyrodactylus antarcticus Gusev, 1967 was found mostly on Trematomus newnesi Boulenger (93 specimens) but also on T. bernacchii Boulenger (one specimen), the latter representing a new host record for this species. Gyrodactylus byrdi Hargis & Dillon, 1968 and G. coriicepsi Rokicka, Lumme & Ziętara, 2009 were recorded on their type hosts, T. newnesi and Notothenia coriiceps Richardson, respectively. Gyrodactylus wilkesi Hargis & Dillon, 1968 was found mostly on the fins of T. bernacchii (29 specimens), but also on T. hansoni Boulenger (one specimen) and T. newnesi (three specimens). The finding of G. wilkesi on T. newnesi represents a new host record. The low number of Gyrodactylus specimens may indicate an accidental infection. The occurence of all four Gyrodactylus species in the Prince Gustav Channel represents a new locality record. According to phylogentic methods, the newly redescribed monogeneans belong to the Antarctic lineage, forming a sister group to North American and European marine Gyrodactylus species, and consist of two species groups, one comprising G. coriicepsi and G. nudifronsi Rokicka, Lumme & Ziętara, 2009, and the other G. anarcticus and G. wilkesi.
A re-evaluation of thelotremoidGraphidaceae(lichenized Ascomycota:Ostropales) in India
Authors: JOSHI Santosh , UPRETI Dalip K. , DIVAKAR Pradeep K. , LUMBSCH H. Thorsten , LÜCKING Robert
Published: December 2018

An account of thelotremoid species ofGraphidaceaein India is provided, which includes 124 species in 24 genera.OcellulariaandThelotremaare the most diverse genera represented by 34 and 18 species, respectively. Type specimens were re-examined and additional samples studied morphologically and chemically. One new species,Ocellularia upretiiS. Joshi, Divakar, Lumbsch & Lücking, is described; it is characterized by a greyish green thallus, porinoid ascomata, brown proper exciple, simple, carbonized columella, clear hymenium, transversely septate, amyloid ascospores of 110–125×15–20 µm and an absence of secondary metabolites.Asteristion australianum,Astrochapsa mirabilis,Cruentotrema cruentatum,C. kurandense,Ocellularia violaceaandThelotrema adjectumare reported as new to the country, andAstrochapsa mirabilis,Melanotrema submicrosporoides,Ocellularia annuloelevata,O. subkeralensisandRhabdodiscus verrucoisidiatusare proposed as new combinations.Diploschistes awasthii,Ocellularia gupeti,O. leucina, O. mahabalei,Thelotrema confertumandT. verrucorugosumare synonymized underD. scruposus,O. neomasonhalei,O. urceolaris,O. thelotremoides,Chapsa leprocarpoidesandT. rugatulum, respectively, withOcellularia canarianaandO. verrucomarginatareduced to synonymy withO. allosporoides.
White House Releases STEM Education Strategy
Authors: Showstack Randy
Published: December 2018

The strategy focuses on maintaining the nation’s STEM leadership, and it emphasizes inclusion, diversity, and workforce development.
The Effect of a Mainshock on the Size Distribution of the Aftershocks
Authors: Gulia L. , Rinaldi A. P. , Tormann T. , Vannucci G. , Enescu B. , Wiemer S.
Published: December 2018

A systematic decay of the aftershock rate over time is one of the most fundamental empirical laws in Earth science. However, the equally fundamental effect of a mainshock on the size distribution of subsequent earthquakes has still not been quantified today and is therefore not used in earthquake hazard assessment. We apply a stacking approach to well‐recorded earthquake sequences to extract this effect. Immediately after a mainshock, the mean size distribution of events, orbvalue, increases by 20–30%, considerably decreasing the chance of subsequent larger events. This increase is strongest in the immediate vicinity of the mainshock, decreasing rapidly with distance but only gradually over time. We present a model that explains these observations as a consequence of the stress changes in the surrounding area caused by the mainshocks slip. Our results have substantial implications for how seismic risk during earthquake sequences is assessed.
Floe Size Effect on Gravity Wave Propagation Through Ice Covers
Authors: Cheng Sukun , Tsarau Andrei , Evers Karl‐Ulrich , Shen Hayley
Published: December 2018

When modeling gravity wave propagation through an array of discrete ice floes, considered as a homogenous elastic continuum, the equivalent elasticity is less than the intrinsic material elasticity of ice. The array behaves increasingly like a collection of rigid floating masses when the floe sizes decrease. Extending a former wave flume experiment with polyethylene plates (Sakai & Hanai, 2002, https://web2.clarkson.edu/projects/iahrice/IAHR%202002/Volume%202/189.pdf), we conducted an experiment with saline ice floes at the Hamburg Ship Model Basin (HSVA). Using the measured wave number and the dispersion relation from a continuous elastic plate theory, we determine the equivalent elasticity. Parallel theoretical solutions are obtained using the matched eigenfunction expansion method (Kohout et al., 2007, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jfluidstructs.2006.10.012), assuming ice floes as an array of thin elastic plates floating over inviscid water. Despite data scatter in laboratory tests, the celerity (phase speed) from the laboratory and theoretical results both show a decreasing trend when the floe size reduces. The corresponding equivalent elastic modulus decreases from the intrinsic modulus to zero. The matched eigenfunction expansion method is then applied to investigate cases under field conditions. Using all the theoretical results, an empirical relation is proposed for the equivalent elasticity in terms of wavelength, floe size, and length scale from the intrinsic elasticity of the floes. In addition to celerity, wave amplitude along the ice cover is compared with the theoretical results. Large discrepancies of wave attenuation from laboratory and theoretical solutions are found, indicating that attenuation mechanisms other than wave scattering need to be considered.