bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detection of Submeter Scale Irregularities in the Low‐Latitude Ionospheric E Layer Using High VHF Radar at 205 MHz
Authors: V. Rakesh , Manoj M. G. , Mohankumar K. , Neethu M. , Samson Titu K.
Published: April 2019

A preliminary study on the first‐time observation of the submeter‐scale disturbances in the ionospheric E layer above the near‐equatorial site of Cochin (10.04°N, 76.33°E; Declination: −1°37′, Inclination: 7°2′), India, using an atmospheric radar in the high very high frequency range at 205 MHz has been carried out. Selected cases of E layer disturbances observed in the 90‐ to 105‐km altitude region, during summer, equinox, and winter periods are reported. It is noted that the submeter‐scale disturbances exist in the near‐equatorial E region with a life span of few minutes to several hours. Both continuous and intermittent echoes were seen in the 90‐ to 105‐km region. The continuous irregularities remain at constant altitude initially, descend and vanish in the later stage. The E layer irregularities observed in the morning and noon were continuous, whereas the echoes after the late afternoon were quasiperiodic in nature with a lifetime of 10–15 min. However, no apparent mean Doppler is observed during this period and is expected to be associated with a turbulent cascade from long wavelengths to shorter ones.
Unexpected Sources of Strontium to the Neuse and Cape Fear River Basins, North Carolina: Implications for the Global Strontium Isotope Budget in Seawater
Authors: Watts Elena M. , Coleman Drew S. , Colon‐Ramirez Angel M. , Walsh Aleah R.
Published: April 2019

Water, bedrock, and saprolite samples from the Neuse and Cape Fear River basins, North Carolina, were analyzed for 87Sr/86Sr and [Sr] to evaluate the control of exposed bedrock on fluvial Sr isotopic compositions and the influence of geology on Sr delivered to the ocean. The 87Sr/86Sr and [Sr] of the two rivers start low and rise downstream, eventually approximating recent ocean isotopic compositions before entering their estuaries. Groundwater samples from the headwaters have 87Sr/86Sr ratios that are lower than expected from the dominant exposed bedrock. The isotopic compositions of bedrock and saprolite samples vary predictably with rock type and age and show no correlation with degree of weathering. The data indicate that dominant surficial bedrock is not the primary source of Sr to the headwaters of the rivers. Rather, mafic dikes that focus groundwater flow and are more easily weathered than their silicic hosts impact the 87Sr/86Sr of the waters more than their limited exposure might suggest. Furthermore, the Sr isotopic composition of the water delivered to the marine environment is buffered by groundwater from coastal plain sedimentary rocks, leaving no evidence of upstream geology. The data suggest that rock type and structure exert significant control on the Sr isotope geochemistry of groundwater that enters into streams. Considering the global fluvial Sr budget, these results emphasize that, in some settings, (1) rock exposure area can be a poor indication of the geologic influence on Sr isotopic compositions of surface waters, and (2) downstream Sr isotopic compositions may not reflect upstream geology.
Hydrodynamic Controls on Primary Producer Communities in Spring‐Fed Rivers
Authors: Reaver N. G. F. , Kaplan D. A. , Mattson R. A. , Carter E. , Sucsy P. V. , Frazer T. K.
Published: April 2019

In many spring‐fed rivers, benthic macroalgae and periphytic algae are increasing and, in some cases, replacing rooted vascular plants, which are critical to ecosystem function. While most research has focused on the role of nutrients in driving this change, in‐channel hydrodynamics also control vascular plant and algal abundances and their interactions. Understanding relationships between hydrology and primary producers is essential for developing ecologically relevant flow regulations. We investigated the relationship between flow velocity and primary producer abundance in spring‐fed rivers using observational data from 16 springs to determine critical velocity thresholds for periphyton, macroalgae, and vascular plants. We also used flow suppression experiments to quantify periphyton growth rates and test for hysteretic behavior. Results suggest a critical velocity of 0.22 m/s (95% CI: 0.13–0.28 m/s) for periphyton but no specific thresholds for macroalgae or vascular plants. Experimental and theoretical results supported these findings and suggest periphyton establishment is not hysteretic.
Carbon Isotope Record of Trace n‐alkanes in a Continental PETM Section Recovered by the Bighorn Basin Coring Project (BBCP)
Authors: Baczynski Allison A. , McInerney Francesca A. , Freeman Katherine H. , Wing Scott L. ,   the Bighorn Basin Coring Project (BBCP) Science Team
Published: April 2019

Continental sedimentary records of early Paleogene hyperthermals are typically limited to weathered, often discontinuous, outcrop exposures. In 2011, the Bighorn Basin Coring Project (BBCP) collected the first continuous terrestrial records of the Paleocene‐Eocene Thermal Maximum (PETM) in the Bighorn Basin, Wyoming. Organic matter preservation was poor during the PETM, even in core material. Concentrations of leaf waxes during the PETM are too low for compound‐specific carbon isotope analysis by conventional means. However, the recent development of picomolar‐scale compound‐specific isotope analyses (pico‐CSIA) has reduced sample requirements and enabled measurements of carbon isotope ratios of n‐alkanes across the PETM in the Basin Substation core. While the prominent, negative carbon isotope excursion in total organic carbon that typically identifies the PETM in the sedimentary record is absent from the core, lithostratigraphic, biostratigraphic, and chemostratigraphic data suggest that the most likely position of the PETM is from ~87.82‐ to ~50‐m composite depth. This ~40‐m interval coincides with the lowest weight percent organic carbon, n‐alkane abundances, and n‐alkane δ13C values and the highest n‐alkane average chain lengths. Comparison of the n‐alkane isotope record from the core with that from organic‐rich rocks exposed in the SE Bighorn Basin suggests that n‐alkanes in the core fail to express the full magnitude of the carbon isotope excursion. We hypothesize that floodplain sediments at Basin Substation contain a mixture of PETM and reworked fossil n‐alkanes. Low total organic carbon suggests that PETM climate accelerated organic matter decay rates and floodplains may have acted as a carbon source during the PETM.
Spatial vs. temporal controls over soil fungal community similarity at continental and global scales
Authors: Averill Colin , Cates LeAnna L , Dietze Michael C , Bhatnagar Jennifer M
Published: April 2019

Large-scale environmental sequencing efforts have transformed our understanding of the spatial controls over soil microbial community composition and turnover. Yet, our knowledge of temporal controls is comparatively limited. This is a major uncertainty in microbial ecology, as there is increasing evidence that microbial community composition is important for predicting microbial community function in the future. Here, we use continental- and global-scale soil fungal community surveys, focused within northern temperate latitudes, to estimate the relative contribution of time and space to soil fungal community turnover. We detected large intra-annual temporal differences in soil fungal community similarity, where fungal communities differed most among seasons, equivalent to the community turnover observed over thousands of kilometers in space. inter-annual community turnover was comparatively smaller than intra-annual turnover. Certain environmental covariates, particularly climate covariates, explained some spatial–temporal effects, though it is unlikely the same mechanisms drive spatial vs. temporal turnover. However, these commonly measured environmental covariates could not fully explain relationships between space, time and community composition. These baseline estimates of fungal community turnover in time provide a starting point to estimate the potential duration of legacies in microbial community composition and function.
Ensuring expression of four core cardiogenic transcription factors enhances cardiac reprogramming
Authors: Zhang Zhentao , Zhang Alexander D. , Kim Luke J. , Nam Young-Jae
Published: April 2019

Previous studies have shown that forced expression of core cardiogenic transcription factors can directly reprogram fibroblasts to induced cardiomyocyte-like cells (iCMs). This cardiac reprogramming approach suggests a potential strategy for cardiomyocyte regeneration. However, a major challenge of this approach remains the low conversion rate. Here, we showed that ensuring expression of four cardiogenic transcription factors (i.e. Gata4 (G), Hand2 (H), Mef2c (M), and Tbx5 (T)) in individual fibroblasts is an initial bottleneck for cardiac reprogramming. Following co-transduction of three or four retroviral vectors encoding individual cardiogenic transcription factors, only a minor subpopulation of cells indeed expressed all three (GMT) or four (GHMT) factors. By selectively analyzing subpopulations of cells expressing various combinations of reprogramming factors, we found that co-expression of GMT in individual fibroblasts is sufficient to induce sarcomeric proteins. However, only a small fraction of those cells expressing GMT were able to develop organized sarcomeric structures and contractility. In contrast, ensuring expression of GHMT markedly enhanced the development of contractile cardiac structures and functions in fibroblasts, although its incremental effect on sarcomeric protein induction was relatively small. Our findings provide new insights into the mechanistic basis of inefficient cardiac reprogramming and can help to devise efficient reprogramming strategies.
Flow of condensed particles around a packing front visualized by drying colloidal suspensions on a tilted substrate
Authors: Mizuguchi Takuho , Inasawa Susumu
Published: April 2019

Tilted drying: a simple way to evaluate particles readiness for packing.
Update: Behavioral Management of Unilateral Vocal Fold Paralysis and Paresis
Authors: Schneider Sarah L.
Published: April 2019

Purpose

Vocal fold motion impairment (VFMI) can be the result of iatrogenic or traumatic injury or may be idiopathic in nature. It can result in glottic incompetence leading to changes in vocal quality and ease. Associated voice complaints may include breathiness, roughness, diplophonia, reduced vocal intensity, feeling out of breath with talking, and vocal fatigue with voice use. A comprehensive interprofessional voice evaluation includes auditory-perceptual voice evaluation, laryngeal examination including videostroboscopy, acoustic and aerodynamic voice measures. These components provide valuable insight into laryngeal structure and function and individual voice use patterns and, in conjunction with stimulability testing, help identify candidacy for voice therapy and choice of therapeutic techniques.

Conclusion

A comprehensive, interprofessional evaluation of patients with VFMI is necessary to assess the role of voice therapy and develop a treatment plan. Although there is no efficacy data to support specific voice therapy techniques for treating VFMI, considerations for various techniques are provided.
Low profile quad‐beam circularly polarised antenna using transmissive metasurface
Authors: Lee Chang‐Hyun , Hoang The Viet , Chi Sang Wook , Lee Sun‐Gyu , Lee Jeong‐Hae
Published: April 2019

This paper presents a high efficiency and low profile quad‐beam circularly polarised transmitarray antenna using metasurface. In order to improve the aperture efficiency, the small unit cell is employed to obtain the beam forming since the gain of multi‐beam is higher and the feed antenna suitable for low profile transmitarray is selected. To further improve the aperture efficiency, the cells with high transmittance are located at the centre of metasurface to increase the transmission efficiency since the electric fields of the low profile transmitarray are more concentrated on the centre of metasurface than those of the high profile transmitarray. The unit cell of metasurface is stacked by optimising with equivalent circuit analysis and generalised sheet transition conditions that can confirm a multi‐layer performance easily. The principle of superposition was used to easily calculate the phase set required for quad‐beam forming. The designed metasurface is 17 × 17 array of four‐layer unit cells of 0.25λ0 × 0.25λ0 size at 5.8 GHz. The finally designed antenna with circularly polarised quad‐beam has the peak gain of 12.1 dBic at 5.72 GHz, and the aperture efficiency and 1 dB gain bandwidth were found to be 30.7% and 3.5%∼5.5% at four beams, respectively.
Iterative greedy user clustering algorithm for D2D–relay in vehicular communication systems
Authors: Wang Zhenyu , Zhou Ting , Xu Tianheng , Hu Honglin
Published: April 2019

Device‐to‐device (D2D) communications help in improving the performance of wireless services in cellular networks via enabling cooperation among mobile users. Further, compared to traditional pairwise cooperation, cluster‐wise cooperation can achieve even higher spectral and power efficiency. D2D clustering certainly can be a great supporting technology for the future of intelligent transportation. In this study, the authors investigate the D2D–relay clustering network in the vehicular scenario and propose a new clustering scheme named iterative greedy user clustering (IGUC). By exploiting those vehicles with better channel state, system resources can be saved. Here, they mainly focus on the question which is by applying D2D–relay clustering among vehicles, how much bandwidth could be saved in the uplink. This problem is mathematically formulated into a non‐linear binary programming problem with the goal being minimum spectrum usage. Due to the NP‐hardness, the low‐complexity suboptimal algorithm IGUC is introduced to tackle it. Simulation results show that compared to the non‐cooperative uplink system, IGUC saves a considerable proportion of the spectrum. Furthermore, clusters in denser and further areas tend to produce a higher gain. Influence of the fast time‐varying characteristic of vehicular wireless channels is also investigated, upon which an adaptive switch mechanism is proposed to further facilitate IGUC.
Probabilistic evaluation of a power system's capability to accommodate uncertain wind power generation
Authors: Liu Bin , Liu Feng , Wei Wei , Meng Ke , Dong Zhao Yang , Zhang Wang
Published: April 2019

With the rapidly growing integration of wind power generation (WPG), it is of great importance for an operator to grasp the ability of the power system to accommodate uncertain WPG. This study proposes two probabilistic methods to assess such capability of a power system based on the level of data availability. If the probability distribution type (PDT) of wind power prediction error (WPPE) is known, the total accommodation probability is calculated as the sum of a fully guaranteed probability and a partially guaranteed probability. The former one leads to a tri‐level max‐max‐min optimisation problem which is solved via a dichotomy procedure, and the latter one can be obtained based on the geometrical analysis of the dispatchable region of WPG. If the PDT of WPPE is not exactly known, the authors tackle the problem via a data‐driven uncertainty quantification method. More precisely, they consider a family of ambiguous probability distributions around the empirical distribution described by historical data in the sense of Wasserstein metric. The probability of failure in the worst‐case distribution is calculated from a linear programming. The proposed method is tested on modified PJM‐5 and IEEE‐118 bus systems. Comparison with the traditional Monte Carlo Simulation method demonstrates its efficacy and efficiency.
Planetesimal fragmentation and giant planet formation
Authors: San Sebastián I. L. , Guilera O. M. , Parisi M. G.
Published: April 2019

Context.Most planet formation models that incorporate planetesimal fragmentation consider a catastrophic impact energy threshold for basalts at a constant velocity of 3 km s−1throughout the process of the formation of the planets. However, as planets grow, the relative velocities of the surrounding planetesimals increase from velocities of the order of meters per second to a few kilometers per second. In addition, beyond the ice line where giant planets are formed, planetesimals are expected to be composed roughly of 50% ices.

Aims.We aim to study the role of planetesimal fragmentation on giant planet formation considering the planetesimal catastrophic impact energy threshold as a function of the planetesimal relative velocities and compositions.

Methods.We improved our model of planetesimal fragmentation incorporating a functional form of the catastrophic impact energy threshold with the planetesimal relative velocities and compositions. We also improved in our model the accretion of small fragments produced by the fragmentation of planetesimals during the collisional cascade considering specific pebble accretion rates.

Results.We find that a more accurate and realistic model for the calculation of the catastrophic impact energy threshold tends to slow down the formation of massive cores. Only for reduced grain opacity values at the envelope of the planet is the cross-over mass achieved before the disk timescale dissipation.

Conclusions.While planetesimal fragmentation favors the quick formation of massive cores of 5–10M⊕the cross-over mass could be inhibited by planetesimal fragmentation. However, grain opacity reduction or pollution by the accreted planetesimals together with planetesimal fragmentation could explain the formation of giant planets with low-mass cores.
A Non-Linear-Threshold-Accepting Function Based Algorithm for the Solution of Economic Dispatch Problem
Authors: Nahas Nabil , Darghouth Mohamed Noomane , Abouheaf Mohammed
Published: April 2019

This article introduces a novel heuristic algorithm based on Non-Linear Threshold Accepting Function to solve the challenging non-convex economic dispatch problem. Economic dispatch is a power system management tool; it is used to allocate the total power generation to the generating units to meet the active load demand. The power systems are highly nonlinear due to the physical and operational constraints. The complexity of the resulting non-convex objective cost function led to inabilities to solve the problem by using analytical approaches, especially in the case of large-scale problems. Optimization techniques based on heuristics are used to overcome these difficulties. The Non-Linear Threshold Accepting Algorithm has demonstrated efficiency in solving various instances of static and dynamic allocation and scheduling problems but has never been applied to solve the economic dispatch problem. Existing benchmark systems are used to evaluate the performance of the proposed heuristic. Additional random instances with different sizes are generated to compare the adopted heuristic to the Harmony Search and the Whale Optimization Algorithms. The obtained results showed the superiority of the proposed algorithm in finding, for all considered instances, a high-quality solution in minimum computational time.
Symmetric duality results for second-order nondifferentiable multiobjective programming problem
Authors: Dubey Ramu , Mishra Vishnu Narayan
Published: April 2019

In this article, we study the existence of Gf-bonvex/Gf
-pseudo-bonvex functions and construct various nontrivial numerical examples for the existence of such type of functions. Furthermore, we formulate Mond-Weir type second-order nondifferentiable multiobjective programming problem and give a nontrivial concrete example which justify weak duality theorem present in the paper. Next, we prove appropriate duality relations under aforesaid assumptions.
Bewegte Zeiten
Authors: Wildner Manfred
Published: April 2019

Kennen Sie Minkowski? „Der Minkowski-Raum ist ein vierdimensionaler reeller Vektorraum, auf dem das Skalarprodukt nicht durch den üblichen Ausdruck, sondern durch eine nichtausgeartete Bilinearform vom Index 1 gegeben ist…“ usw. 1. Um es kurz – und damit zumindest im Ansatz verständlich – zu machen: Hermann Minkowski konnte 1907 Albert Einstein mit dem Vorschlag eines vierdimensionalen Raum-Zeit-Kontinuums den mathematischen Bezugsrahmen für seine Relativitätstheorie geben. Und so plagen wir kosmologischen Laien uns seither mit der daraus abgeleiteten Anmutung der Physiker – die im Grunde ja angewandte Naturphilosophie betreiben – dass Zeit womöglich nur der Nebeneffekt eines sich stetig ausweitenden Raumes sei, obendrein beeinflusst von dem Absolutum der Geschwindigkeit des Lichtes. Ohne diese Bewegung bestünde womöglich universelle Gleichzeitigkeit bzw. Zeitlosigkeit, eine echte naturphilosophische Alternative zur immer noch zeitgebundenen Ewigkeit: wir leben sehr handfest in „bewegten Zeiten“.
Single Low-Volume Center Experience with Frozen Elephant Trunk in Acute Type A Aortic Dissections
Authors: López Almodóvar Luis , Lima Cañadas Pedro , Enríquez Puga Andrés , Narváez Mayorga Irene , Buendía Miñano José , Sánchez Casado Marcelino , Cañas Cañas Alfonso
Published: April 2019

Background Acute Type A aortic dissection (AAAD) is a surgical emergency. In patients with arch and descending aorta involvement (DeBakey Type I), a total aortic arch replacement with frozen elephant trunk (FET) could favor false lumen thrombosis and improve long-term results. The authors hereby present their experience with this technique in a single low-volume center, to assess whether the technique is feasible to treat such disease.

Methods From January 2011 to December 2016, 43 patients with AAAD were operated on in the authors' institution, which carries out 300 to 350 annual procedures. Among these, 12 patients with an intimal tear in the aortic arch and/or proximal descending aorta received a FET procedure (10 males, age 57 years). Concomitant procedures were aortic valve replacement (42%), Bentall (25%), and aortic valve repair (17%).

Results Cardiopulmonary bypass, cardiac arrest, and circulatory arrest times were 235 ± 43, 171 ± 33, and 75 ± 20 minutes, respectively. The operative mortality was 16.7% (n = 2). Stroke and re-thoracotomy for bleeding occurred in 8% (n = 1) and 8% (n = 1), respectively. There was no spinal cord injury. Follow-up was 36.1 months. During follow-up, no patients died or required a reoperation on the downstream aorta.

Conclusion Although all patients were operated on in a low-volume center, the results with FET in AAAD are acceptable. Even though this technique demands high technical skills, it is a promising approach in patients with acute aortic dissection.
Spontaneous Aortocaval Fistula with Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm 5 Years after Aortic Valve Replacement Complicated by Aortic Dissection
Authors: Mleyhi Sobhi , Messai Mohamed , Hammamia Mohamed , Omrane Skander
Published: April 2019

Iatrogenic aortic dissection after cardiac surgery is a rare and serious complication, the management of which involves many therapeutic modalities and whose prognosis is associated with high rate of morbidity and mortality. The authors report the case of a 61-year-old man presented with aortocaval fistula and aortic dissection 5 years after aortic valve replacement.
Epidemiology and Estimated Cost of Microsurgical Treatment of Peripheral Nerve Tumor Conducted by the Brazilian Unified Health Care System (2008–2016)
Authors: Magalhães Marcelo José da Silva de , Mendes Mayallu Almeida , Oliva Henrique Nunes Pereira
Published: April 2019

Introduction Primary nerve tumors correspond to ∼ 5% of the soft tissue neoplasms affecting the upper limbs, with benign lesions being more frequent than malignant lesions.

Objective To describe the epidemiological data of the microsurgical treatment of peripheral nerve tumors performed by the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS, in the Portuguese acronym), with the code 0403020131, from 2008 to 2016, regarding the number of annual procedures, hospital and professional expenses, the average duration of hospital stay, and the number of deaths.

Methods This is a descriptive epidemiological study whose data were obtained by consulting the database provided by the Health Informatics Department of the Brazilian Ministry of Health (DATASUS, in the Portuguese acronym).

Results/Discussion A total of 6,012 procedures were performed during the period studied, with an average of 688 procedures per year. The average hospital stay was of 2.13 days. There was no mortality rate. The average annual cost of the professional was BRL 50,091.45; and the average hospital expenses were BRL111,887.94.

Conclusion The microsurgical treatment of peripheral nerve tumors is a safe surgical procedure with zero mortality rate and short hospital stay. There was no national data on tumors of this nature in the medical literature.
A Case of Chronic and Relapsing Paget Disease of the Vulva
Authors: Bouceiro-Mendes Rita , Mendonça-Sanches Maria , Soares-de-Almeida Luís , Correia-Fonseca Isabel
Published: April 2019

Extramammary Paget disease is a rare neoplastic condition that more commonly affects postmenopausal Caucasian women. Although the vulvar area is the most frequently affected location, it corresponds solely to 1 to 2% of all vulvar malignancies. A 72-year-old female patient was observed in our outpatient clinic with a 2-year history of an erythematous and pruritic plaque on the vulva. Histopathology and immunohistochemistry studies were compatible with extramammary Paget disease of the vulva. Associated neoplastic conditions were excluded. Due to multiple relapses, the patient was submitted to three surgical interventions, including a total vulvectomy, and to external radiotherapy. The present case illustrates the chronic and recurrent nature of extramammary Paget disease despite aggressive procedures as well as the challenge in obtaining tumor-free resection margins.
B-type Landau-Ginzburg models on Stein manifolds
Authors: Babalic E. M. , Doryn D. , Lazaroiu C. I. , Tavakol M.
Published: April 2019

We summarize the description of the open-closed TFT datum for B-type Landau-Ginzburg models with Stein manifold targets and discuss various constructions which lead to large classes of examples of such models.
Extensin arabinosylation is involved in root response to elicitors and limits oomycete colonization
Authors: Castilleux Romain , Plancot Barbara , Gügi Bruno , Attard Agnès , Loutelier-Bourhis Corinne , Lefranc Benjamin , Nguema-Ona Eric , Arkoun Mustapha , Yvin Jean-Claude , Driouich Azeddine , Vicré Maïté
Published: April 2019

Background and Aims

Extensins are hydroxyproline-rich glycoproteins thought to strengthen the plant cell wall, one of the first barriers against pathogens, through intra- and intermolecular cross-links. The glycan moiety of extensins is believed to confer the correct structural conformation to the glycoprotein, leading to self-assembly within the cell wall that helps limit microbial adherence and invasion. However, this role is not clearly established.

Methods

We used Arabidopsis thaliana mutants impaired in extensin arabinosylation to investigate the role of extensin arabinosylation in root–microbe interactions. Mutant and wild-type roots were stimulated to elicit an immune response with flagellin 22 and immunolabelled with a set of anti-extensin antibodies. Roots were also inoculated with a soilborne oomycete, Phytophthora parasitica, to assess the effect of extensin arabinosylation on root colonization.

Key Results

A differential distribution of extensin epitopes was observed in wild-type plants in response to elicitation. Elicitation also triggers altered epitope expression in mutant roots compared with wild-type and non-elicited roots. Inoculation with the pathogen P. parasitica resulted in enhanced root colonization for two mutants, specifically xeg113 and rra2.

Conclusions

We provide evidence for a link between extensin arabinosylation and root defence, and propose a model to explain the importance of glycosylation in limiting invasion of root cells by pathogenic oomycetes.
Critical wind speeds suggest wind could be an important disturbance agent in Amazonian forests
Authors: Peterson Chris J , Ribeiro Gabriel Henrique Pires de Mello , Negrón-Juárez Robinson , Marra Daniel Magnabosco , Chambers Jeffrey Q , Higuchi Niro , Lima Adriano , Cannon Jeffery B
Published: April 2019

Recent research in the central Amazon suggests that wind is a major agent of disturbance, however, a mechanistic understanding of how wind may lead to tree mortality in Amazonian forests remains unclear. Here we estimated wind speeds necessary to topple central Amazon trees by linking both static and dynamic versions of two wind speed estimation methods (four methods total) to field data on tree failure derived from a static winching study. Static versions of these methods assumed invariant wind characteristics as more trees failed, while dynamic versions updated tree spacing, leaf area index and wind profiles progressively after each tree failure. First, we used a profile method which estimates wind force on individual trees by segments. We calculated drag on each segment and converted drag into basal turning moment, and compared the summed turning moments to the critical turning moment measured in the winching study. Estimated critical wind speeds from the static profile method varied greatly, from 10.75 m s−1 to >120.0 m s−1 with a mean of 45.70 m s−1. Critical wind speeds estimated with static approaches decreased with tree size but were not significantly different between two focal genera. Primary drivers of variation in critical wind speed were tree height and crown size. Second, we used the turning moment coefficient method of Hale, S.E., Gardiner, B., Peace, A., Nicoll, B., Taylor, P. and Pizzirani, S. 2015 Comparison and validation of three versions of a forest wind risk model. Environ. Model. Softw.68, 27–41. doi:10.1016/j.envsoft.2015.01.016.; the static version of this method yielded less-variable estimates, ranging from 18.98 to 52.01 m s−1, with a mean of 30.88 m s−1. Notably, the two static methods for estimating critical wind speeds differed in the trees they identified as having the highest and lowest critical wind speeds. Dynamic variants of the above two methods produced greatly reduced ranges in CWS estimates for our study trees, because after the early tree failures, remaining trees were subject to greater wind penetration into the stand and thus greater loading for a given above-canopy wind speed. CWS estimated with dynamic approaches differed significantly between the focal taxa. Nevertheless, both estimates suggest that wind speeds commonly observed during Amazon storms are sufficient to produce widespread tree damage and mortality.
Different impact of rATG induction on CMV infection risk in D+R– and R+ KTRs
Authors: Kaminski Hannah , Jarque Marta , Halfon Mathieu , Taton Benjamin , Di Ascia Ludovic , Pfirmann Pierre , Visentin Jonathan , Garrigue Isabelle , Déchanet-Merville Julie , Moreau Jean-François , Crespo Elena , Montero Nuria , Melilli Edoardo , Meneghini Maria , Pascual Manuel , Couzi Lionel , Manuel Oriol , Bestard Oriol , Merville Pierre
Published: April 2019

Background

Rabbit antithymocyte globulin (rATG) induction is associated with profound immunosuppression, leading to a higher risk of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection compared with anti–interleukin 2 receptor antibody (anti–IL-2RA). However, this risk, depending on the baseline CMV serological recipient/donor status, is still controversial.

Methods

The CMV DNAemia-free survival between rATG- and anti–IL-2RA–treated patients was analyzed in donor-positive/recipient-negative (D+R−) and recipient-positive (R+) patients in 1 discovery cohort of 559 kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) and 2 independent cohorts (351 and 135 kidney KTRs). The CMV-specific cell-mediated immunity (CMI) at baseline and at different time points after transplantation was assessed using an interferon γ enzyme-linked immunosorbent spot assay.

Results

rATG increased the risk of CMV DNAemia in R+ but not in D+R− KTRs. In R+ CMI-positive (CMI+) patients, the CMV DNAemia rate was higher in rATG-treated than in anti–IL-2RA–treated patients; no difference was observed among R+ CMI-negative (CMI−) patients. Longitudinal follow-up demonstrated a deeper depletion of preformed CMV CMI in R+ rATG-treated patients.

Conclusions

D+R− KTRs have the highest risk of CMV DNAemia, but rATG adds no further risk. Among R+ KTRs, we described 3 groups, the least prone being R+CMI+ KTRs without rATG, then R+CMI+ KTRs with rATG, and finally R+CMI− KTRs. CMV serostatus, baseline CMV-specific CMI, and induction therapy may lead to personalized preventive therapy in further studies.
Transmammary delivery of firocoxib to piglets reduces stress and improves average daily gain after castration, tail docking, and teeth clipping1
Authors: Coetzee Johann F , Sidhu Pritam K , Seagen Jon , Schieber Teresa , Kleinhenz Katie , Kleinhenz Michael D , Wulf Larry W , Cooper Vickie L , Mazloom Reza , Jaberi-Douraki Majid , Lechtenberg Kelly
Published: April 2019

Painful processing procedures in piglets such as tail docking, castration, and teeth clipping are an emerging animal welfare concern. We hypothesized that transmammary delivery of a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, firocoxib, would reduce pain associated with processing in piglets. This study compared the pharmacokinetics, efficacy, safety, and tissue residue concentrations of 4 doses of firocoxib (0.5, 1.0, 1.5, or 2.0 mg/kg) administered to sows and delivered to nursing piglets prior to processing. Sixteen sows, 5 ± 2 d postpartum, were randomly assigned to 1 of 4 treatment groups. On day 0, sows received a single intramuscular dose of firocoxib at 7 ± 1 h before piglet surgical castration, tail docking, and teeth clipping (males) or sham handling (females). Firocoxib and cortisol concentrations were determined from selected samples collected from sows and 3 piglets per litter (2 barrows and 1 gilt) at 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, 24, 48, 72, 96, and 120 h after drug administration. On day 21, piglets were weighed and all animals were euthanized and necropsied. Tissues were collected from 3 piglets per litter for histological examination and drug residue analysis. Mean (±SEM) peak plasma firocoxib concentrations (Cmax) were 107.90 ± 15.18, 157.50 ± 24.91, 343.68 ± 78.89, and 452.83 ± 90.27 ng/mL in sows receiving 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 mg/kg firocoxib, respectively, and 9.53 ± 1.21, 31.04 ± 6.79, 53.30 ± 11.1, and 44.03 ± 7.47 ng/mL in their respective piglets. Mean plasma terminal half-life values ranged from 26 to 31 h in sows and 30 to 48 h in piglets. Barrows nursing sows that received 2.0 mg/kg firocoxib had a lower mean plasma cortisol concentration at 1 ± 1 h after processing compared with barrows nursing sows that received 1.0 mg/kg (P = 0.0416) and 0.5 mg/kg of firocoxib (P = 0.0397). From processing to weaning, litters of sows receiving 2.0 mg/kg firocoxib gained more weight than litters of sows that received 0.5 mg/kg (P = 0.008) or 1.0 mg/kg (P = 0.005). No signs of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug toxicity were observed on examination of the kidney, liver, stomach, and small intestine, and concentrations of firocoxib and the descyclopropylmethyl metabolite were below the limit of detection (0.01 µg/g) in all tissues examined from sows and piglets. These findings indicate that maternal delivery of firocoxib to suckling piglets before tail docking and castration may safely reduce processing-induced stress and enhance production by increasing weaning weights.
Developing Mass Egg-Laying Medium for the Edible Ruspolia differens (Orthoptera: Tettigonidae)
Authors: Malinga Geoffrey M , Lehtovaara Vilma J , Valtonen Anu , Nyeko Philip , Roininen Heikki
Published: April 2019

The edible katydid, Ruspolia differens (Serville), is an economically and nutritionally important insect species that is common and widespread in Africa. Currently, there are aims to develop mass-rearing methods suitable for this species, but a critical first step would require a suitable oviposition medium to ensure economic and easy production of eggs with high hatchability. The objective of the present study was to determine the oviposition preference and egg hatchability in different oviposition media. Based on preliminary testing of a wide range of different materials, two oviposition media, namely, artificial (folded plastic cloth) and natural medium (leaf sheath of Pennisetum purpureum Schumach attached to a stem), were selected for a detailed experiment. A two-choice laboratory experiment was conducted in which R. differens females were able to select between the folded plastic cloth (one side covered with short fleece) and a leaf sheath of P. purpureum (wrapped in polyester fiber). The results show that R. differens laid almost three times more eggs on the plastic cloth (mean ± SE, 169.3 ± 18.0) than on the natural substrate, P. purpurem (69.0 ± 13.9). However, the hatchability (overall mean% ± SE, 56.5 ± 4.7) of eggs in the two media did not differ. Folded plastic cloth, therefore, provided a more effective medium for egg laying by R. differens, and is thus a promising oviposition medium for getting natural populations to start laying eggs in future mass rearing.
Sensitivity of the Egg Parasitoid Trissolcus japonicus (Hymenoptera: Scelionidae) to Field and Laboratory-Applied Insecticide Residue
Authors: Lowenstein David M , Andrews Heather , Mugica Anthony , Wiman Nik G
Published: April 2019

The spread of adventive Trissolcus japonicus (Ashmead, 1904) populations in North America is anticipated to increase biological control of Halyomorpha halys (Stål; Hemiptera: Pentatomidae), the brown marmorated stink bug. In an agricultural context, biological control will succeed if it can be integrated in an environment with insecticide applications. We investigated T. japonicus compatibility with nine conventional and organic insecticides commonly used in integrated pest management in perennial crops. Through evaluating mortality and longevity in field and laboratory trials, we determined that T. japonicus fares poorly when exposed to residues of neonicotinoids and pyrethroids. Spinosad resulted in the highest percentage of T. japonicus mortality, 100% in the laboratory and 97% in a field trial. The anthranilic diamide, chlorantraniliprole, had the lowest lethality, with no differences compared to an untreated control. Trissolcus japonicus survived insecticide applications in hazelnut orchards, and over 50% of wasps remained alive after contact with the anthranilic diamides, chlorantraniliprole and cyantraniliprole, the biopesticide Chromobacterium, and an untreated control. Our results indicate that T. japonicus is unlikely to survive and parasitize H. halys in settings that coincide with broad-spectrum insecticide application. Future T. japonicus redistributions could continue in orchards treated with anthranilic diamides and Chromobacterium. As H. halys is a landscape-level pest, orchards may also benefit from biological control if T. japonicus are released in unsprayed areas adjacent to agriculture and in urban sites.
Evidence-Based Practice for the Prevention and Treatment of Body Image Disturbance and Eating Pathology in Sexual Minority Men
Authors: Blashill Aaron J. , Brown Tiffany A. , Klimek Patrycja
Published: April 2019

Eating disorders are serious mental health disorders that are associated with significant medical and psychiatric comorbidities, and they have one of the highest mortality rates of any psychiatric disorder. Although considerable research has demonstrated that sexual minority males represent a high-risk group for eating disorders and body image disturbance, less research has been conducted on evidence-based practice for this population. This chapter describes the prevalence of body image disturbance and eating pathology/disorders among sexual minority men. Next, it reviews leading theoretical models that explain these concerns among sexual minority men, including objectification theory, tripartite theory, and sexual minority stress theory. It then discusses clinical interventions and prevention programs tailored to sexual minority men and briefly reviews leading treatment packages for eating pathology in the general population. A case example of enhanced cognitive–behavioral therapy with a hypothetical sexual minority male patient is presented. The chapter concludes with future directions.
Matching Parent Education Programs to Family Treatment Needs
Authors: Moran John A. , Weinstock David , Butler Kolette
Published: April 2019

Over the past several decades parent education has emerged as a cost-effective alternative or treatment supplement for coparenting conflict and children’s behavior problems. Parent education programs provide psychoeducation and skills development for separated and divorced families across a wide array of topics and in a variety of formats. Distinguishing between the dozens of available programs and determining which best meets each family’s needs could be daunting. This chapter provides an overview of research on coparenting education programs and identifies several critical elements and factors for consideration in selecting a program. These elements and factors include authority of program developers, evidence-informed approaches, costs, accessibility, measures of compliance, evidence of effectiveness, general and special topics, and instructional design.
Body Appreciation
Authors: Tylka Tracy L.
Published: April 2019

This chapter reviews body appreciation, which involves holding favorable opinions of the body regardless of actual physical appearance, accepting the body despite perceived imperfections, respecting the body by attending to its needs and engaging in healthy behaviors, and protecting the body by rejecting unrealistic societal appearance ideals. The chapter first presents the measurement of this construct, the original and revised Body Appreciation Scale (the BAS and BAS-2), which yield evidence of reliability and validity in samples across different cultures. Next, the chapter reviews the research on body appreciation, documenting its adaptive links to many indices of psychological well-being and physical health, such as positive affect; life satisfaction; intuitive eating; self-compassion; physical activity (yoga, modern and belly dance); sexual and reproductive health; and physical self-care. Its role as a protective factor against media exposure is also discussed. Last, clinical considerations and directions for future research are presented.
Promoting a Resistant Stance Toward Objectification
Authors: Tylka Tracy L. , Calogero Rachel M.
Published: April 2019

Objectification, or the fragmentation of others or oneself into body parts or sexual functions for scrutiny or gratification, is a destructive force that usurps positive embodiment. Yet, many people defend objectification. This chapter presents a two-prong approach to promote a resistant stance toward objectification, with examples. First, at a cultural level, objectification needs to be delegitimized by defusing or redirecting the threat (threat is sexual objectification), framing sexual objectification as already happening and offering ways to challenge it (e.g., #MeToo), helping people and businesses perceive that their outcomes are not dependent on objectification being sustained, and encouraging people to feel that they do not need to rely on objectification to feel personal control. Second, at an individual level, self-objectification (gazing at the self as an objectifier would) needs to be prevented by helping girls and women develop a schema to contextualize (rather than internalize) objectification and cultivate an embodied identity.
The Practice of Yoga
Authors: Neumark-Sztainer Dianne
Published: April 2019

Body image concerns, disordered eating, and eating disorders are of public health concern, given their high prevalence and adverse health consequences. Yoga may offer a tool for addressing these concerns given its underlying tenets and its increasing popularity. The practice of yoga involves both physical and mindfulness components. The physical aspect of yoga can involve varying degrees of cardiovascular and muscular exertion and can be adapted to meet different needs, skill levels, and body sizes. Thus, if yoga is offered within a supportive environment, yoga practitioners can learn to move in a manner that suits their individual bodies. The mindfulness component of yoga provides an opportunity for yoga practitioners to connect with themselves and their bodies in a positive and compassionate manner. This chapter includes a description of yoga and its potential for leading to a positive body image and greater embodiment.
Brain Integration, Embodied Mindfulness, and Movement-Based Approaches to Facilitate Positive Body Image and Embodiment
Authors: Cook-Cottone Catherine P.
Published: April 2019

This chapter examines embodiment as it relates to brain integration, briefly reviews some of the related theory and research, and highlights interventions that facilitate embodiment and neurological integration. The concepts of the embodied brain and embodied mindfulness are defined and described as essential for supporting the shift from thinking and judging toward being and experiencing. Embodiment is then explored in terms of how it supports and develops integration of the brain through stimulation and coordination of brain networks, citing recent research findings to illustrate key points. Embodying interventions that enhance brain integration are described, including embodied mindfulness practices such as self-compassion protocols, mindful approaches to addiction, and sensorimotor psychotherapy for trauma. Postural and mindful-action interventions are also described, including work with posture for individuals with depression and yoga as an adjunct intervention for disordered eating.
What Is Behavior?
Authors: Furlow Christopher M.
Published: April 2019

Prior to implementing interventions, practitioners must first develop definitions of behavior that are objective. This chapter first provides a definition of behavior and provides three criteria for determining whether something is a behavior: it is demonstrated by a living organism, in interaction with the environment, and the interaction results in measurable change within the environment. Next, the chapter outlines how practitioners should develop operational definitions of behaviors of interest. Then, the chapter provides a description of the dead man’s test, a heuristic that practitioners often utilize when determining if something qualifies as a behavior suitable for intervention. Finally, the chapter describes the meaningful operant dimensions of behavior, such as frequency, duration, latency, and magnitude.
Antecedent Interventions
Authors: Kern Lee , Chen Rui
Published: April 2019

Antecedent interventions are a class of intervention strategies in which environmental stimuli are manipulated prior to a behavior occurring, with the intention of stopping a behavior before it occurs. Antecedent interventions may also be used to modify settings such that students may no longer recognize triggers for problem behaviors. The chapter describes various advantages to antecedent interventions in relation to other classes of intervention strategies. Next, considerations for implementing antecedent interventions are discussed, including developing a comprehensive plan and ongoing data collection. The chapter then presents a range of antecedent interventions. Developing clear expectations, use of classroom seating arrangements, praise, increasing structure, delivery of effective instructions, and modifying task difficulty are among the procedures highlighted in the chapter.