bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Removal of gaseous methyl tert‐butyl ether using bagasse activated carbon pretreated with chemical agents
Authors: Pongkua Waleeporn , Dolphen Rujira , Thiravetyan Paitip
Published: January 2019

Background

Methyl tert‐butyl ether (MTBE), an anti‐knocking reagent emitted from incomplete gasoline combustion can affect human health. Bagasse activated carbon (AC) was modified by H2SO4, KOH, CaCl2/HCl and HNO3 to increase surface area and surface functional groups which led to enhance MTBE adsorption.

Results

The results showed maximum adsorption capacity (Qmax) of MTBE by bagasse AC modified by H2SO4 was the highest (989.33 mg g−1), while the lowest was bagasse AC modified by HNO3 (463.82 mg g−1). Not much difference was shown to the surface area and micropore volume of the different modified materials. Therefore, the surface functional groups on the different modified materials played an important role in MTBE adsorption. H2SO4 modified bagasse AC had a higher maximum adsorption capacity than a commercial AC (CGC12) (560.48 mg g−1), which might be due to the presence of higher ester (CO), carbonyl (CO) and CH stretching groups than commercial AC and other modified bagasse ACs.

Conclusion

Surface functional groups of adsorbents play an important role in MTBE adsorption. Consequently, it will be possible to enhance MTBE removal by increasing ester (CO), carbonyl (CO) and CH groups on the material's surface. These functional groups are directly involved in MTBE adsorption. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Comparative omasum anatomy in ruminants: Relationships with natural diet, digestive physiology, and general considerations on allometric investigations
Authors: Ehrlich Christian , Codron Daryl , Hofmann Reinhold R. , Hummel Jürgen , Clauss Marcus
Published: January 2019

The omasum is the third forestomach compartment of pecoran ruminants. It is assumed that the re‐absorption of fluid present in the forestomach digesta (that facilitates particle sorting, digestion, and harvest of microbes) is its main function, so that less diluted digesta is submitted to enzymatic digestion in the lower digestive tract. Here, we evaluate measures of omasum size (representing 84 ruminant species in the largest data set) against body mass and proxies of the natural diet (%grass) or forestomach physiology (fluid throughput), using phylogenetically controlled models. The origin of specimens (free‐ranging or captive) did not have an effect in the data set. Models with the best support invariably either included %grass or a physiology proxy in addition to body mass. These effects were not necessarily additive (affecting the intercept of the allometric regression), but often indicated a change in the allometric body mass‐exponent with diet or physiology. Only models that allowed an influence on the allometric exponent yielded basic exponents compatible with predictions derived from geometry. Species that include more grass in their natural diet, or that have a “cattle‐type” physiology marked by a high forestomach fluid throughput, generally have larger omasa. However, the existence of outliers, as well as the overall data pattern, suggest that this is not an obligatory morphophysiological condition. Circumstantial evidence is presented leading to the hypothesis that the comparatively small and less complex omasa of “moose‐type” species do not necessarily represent an “original” state, but may be derived from more complex states by ontogenetic reduction and fusion of omasal laminae.
Modest immigration can rescue a reintroduced carnivore population
Authors: Grauer Jennifer A. , Gilbert Jonathan H. , Woodford James E. , Eklund Daniel , Anderson Scott , Pauli Jonathan N.
Published: January 2019

Reintroductions are frequently conducted to restore carnivore populations, though many fail despite following best management practices. Although demographic approaches are increasingly used to assess reintroduced populations, immigration is often overlooked in reintroduction planning and assessment. American martens (Martes americana) were reintroduced to 2 sites in Wisconsin, the Nicolet and Chequamegon national forests, which have anecdotally experienced differential population recovery. Via non‐invasive sampling and a mark‐recapture framework, we explored the possible mechanisms behind the divergent trajectories of the Nicolet National Forest (Nicolet) population, which appears to be recovering, and the Chequamegon National Forest (Chequamegon) population, which appears to be declining toward extinction. We tested for site‐level differences in survival, estimated population size, and calculated immigration rates based on simulations of the original reintroductions to the Nicolet. We then projected each population forward, both with and without our estimated immigration rate. We calculated a current population size of 66 female martens in the Nicolet, and estimated that the reintroduced population would have reached this size if supplemented by 1 female immigrant per year. We simulated future populations with the estimate of 1 female immigrant per year; this sustained level of immigration to the Nicolet reduced the probability of extinction to <1% over the next 100 years. When we applied the same rate of immigration to the starting population of 22 female martens in the Chequamegon, extinction probabilities were reduced by approximately 30%. Despite similarities between the 2 reintroduction sites, we propose that the differential population recovery was primarily due to modest rates of immigration to the Nicolet and the relative isolation of the Chequamegon population. Martens in the Chequamegon have been projected to go extinct in the foreseeable future, yet increasing connectivity with the Nicolet or Upper Peninsula of Michigan could improve persistence. Our results illustrate the effect of modest immigration on reintroduction success and the importance of planning for connectivity across reintroduction sites. © 2019 The Wildlife Society.
Decreased phototoxicity of photodynamic therapy by Cx32/Cx26‐composed GJIC: A “Good Samaritan” effect
Authors: Wu Deng‐Pan , Ding Chun‐Hui , Bai Li‐Ru , Zhou Yan , Yang Si‐Man , Zhang Fan , Huang Jin‐Lan
Published: January 2019

Background and Objective

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has been widely used to treat malignant tumors. Our previous studies indicated that connexin (Cx) 32‐ and Cx26‐composed gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC) could improve the phototoxicity of PDT. However, the role of heterotypic Cx32/Cx26‐formed GJIC in PDT phototoxicity is still unknown. Thus, the present study was aimed to investigate the effect of Cx32/Cx26‐formed GJIC on PDT efficacy.

Methods

CCK8 assay was used to detect cell survival after PDT. Western blot assay was utilized to detect Cx32/Cx26 expression. “Parachute” dye‐coupling assay was performed to measure the function of GJ channels. The intracellular Ca2+ concentrations were determined using flow cytometer. ELISA assay was performed to detect the intracellular levels of PGE2 and cAMP.

Results

The present study demonstrates there is a Cx32/Cx26‐formed GJIC‐dependent reduction of phototoxicity when cells were exposure to low concentration of Photofrin. Such a protective action is missing at low cell density due to the lack of GJ coupling. Under high‐cell density condition, where there is opportunity for the cells to contact each other and form GJ, suppressing Cx32/Cx26‐formed GJIC by either inhibiting the expression of Cx32/Cx26 or pretreating with GJ channel inhibitor augments PDT phototoxicity after cells were treated with at 2.5 µg/ml Photofrin. The above results suggest that at low Photofrin concentration, the presence of Cx32/Cx26‐formed GJIC may decrease the phototoxicity of PDT, leading to the insensitivity of malignant cells to PDT treatment. The GJIC‐mediated PDT insensitivity was associated with Ca2+ and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) signaling pathways.

Conclusion

The present study provides a cautionary note that for tumors expressing Cx32/Cx26, the presence of Cx32/Cx26‐composed GJIC may cause the resistance of tumor cells to PDT. Oppositely, treatment strategies designed to downregulate the expression of Cx32/Cx26 or restrain the function of Cx32/Cx26‐mediated GJIC may increase the sensitivity of malignant cell to PDT. Lasers Surg. Med. 51:301–308, 2019. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Not All Cellular Rejections Are the Same: Differences in Early and Late Hepatic Allograft Rejection
Authors: Jadlowiec Caroline C. , Morgan Paige E. , Nehra Avinash K. , Hathcock Matthew A. , Kremers Walter K. , Heimbach Julie K. , Wiesner Russell H. , Taner Timucin
Published: January 2019

T cell–mediated rejection (TCMR) is common after liver transplantation (LT), and it is often thought to have a minimum impact on outcomes. Because alloimmune response changes over time, we investigated the role of the timing of TCMR on patient and allograft survival and examined the risk factors for early and late TCMR. We reviewed protocol liver biopsies for 787 consecutive LT recipients with an 8.6‐year follow‐up. The incidence of early TCMR (≤6 weeks after LT) was 33.5% with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis patients having the lowest incidence. Younger recipient age (P < 0.01), number of human leukocyte antigen mismatches (P < 0.01), and use of deceased donor allografts (P = 0.01) were associated with increased risk of early TCMR, which had no impact on allograft (hazard ratio [HR], 1.02; 95% CI, 0.79‐1.32; P = 0.89) or overall survival (HR, 1.03; 95% CI, 0.78‐1.34; P = 0.86). Late TCMR (>6 weeks after LT) was less common (17.7%) and was associated with different risk factors. The majority of late TCMR (56.2%) episodes had no antecedent early TCMR, although moderate‐to‐severe early TCMR (HR, 2.85; 95% CI, 1.55‐5.23; P < 0.01) and steroid resistance (HR, 3.62; 95% CI, 1.87‐6.99; P < 0.01) were associated with late TCMR. Late TCMR increased risk of mortality (HR, 1.89; 95% CI, 1.35‐2.65; P = 0.001) and graft loss (HR, 1.71; 95% CI, 1.23‐2.37; P = 0.001). Thus, these data suggest that the timing and histologic grade of TCMR determine its impact on patient and allograft survival. Early mild TCMR episodes after LT do not adversely impact patient or allograft survival provided that they are adequately treated. The occurrence of late TCMR carries deleterious effects with increased longterm risk of graft loss and decreased survival. Patients with moderate‐to‐severe early TCMR are at an increased risk for late TCMR and warrant closer clinical follow‐up.
When should you order genetic testing for patients with cryptogenic neuropathy? Let the data do the talking
Authors: Pasnoor Mamatha , Gordon Smith A.
Published: January 2019

See article on pages 354–357 in this issue.
An adaptive finite element model for wellbore breakout simulation
Authors: Cecílio Diogo L. , Devloo Philippe R. B. , Gomes Sônia M. , Santos Erick S.R.
Published: January 2019

A finite element formulation is proposed and implemented for analysing the stability of excavated wells using the DiMaggio‐Sandler constitutive elastoplastic model with a typical carbonate reservoir configuration. The quality of the finite element approximation is ensured by applying smooth curved elements adapted to the wellbore geometry, and h − p adaptive finite element meshes in the plastic zone. General purpose procedures are defined to transfer the elastoplastic deformation history to newly created integration points. A breakout damage criterion is proposed based on the second invariant of the deviatoric plastic deformation tensor. This damage criterion is used to apply a mesh movement algorithm to represent material collapse. The automatic successive application of the breakout damage criterion results in elliptical realistically looking geometries obtained in experiments reported in the literature.
Expressing and Challenging Racist Discourse on Facebook: How Social Media Weaken the “Spiral of Silence” Theory
Authors: Chaudhry Irfan , Gruzd Anatoliy
Published: January 2019

This article examines the discursive practices of Facebook users who use the platform to express racist views. We analyzed 51,991 public comments posted to 119 news stories about race, racism, or ethnicity on the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation News Facebook page. We examined whether users who hold racist viewpoints (the vocal minority) are less likely to express views that go against the majority view for fear of social isolation. According to the “spiral of silence” theory, the vocal minority would presumably fear this isolation effect. However, our analysis shows that on Facebook, a predominantly nonanonymous and moderated platform, the vocal minority are comfortable expressing unpopular views, questioning the explanatory power of this popular theory in the online context. Based on automated analysis of 8,636 comments, we found 64 percent mentioned race or ethnicity, and 18 percent exhibited some form of othering. A manual coding of 1,161 comments showed that 18 percent exhibited some form of othering, and 25 percent countered the racist discourse. In sum, while Facebook provides space to express racist discourse, users also turn to this platform to counter the hateful narratives.
Prediction of peak oxygen uptake using the modified shuttle test in children and adolescents with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Vendrusculo Fernanda M. , Heinzmann‐Filho João P. , Campos Natália E. , Gheller Mailise F. , de Almeida Ingrid S. , Donadio Márcio V. F.
Published: January 2019

Background

Several tests may be used to assess exercise intolerance in cystic fibrosis (CF), including the gold standard cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) and the Modified Shuttle Test (MST).

Objective

To evaluate the use of the MST as a predictor of peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) and to compare VO2peak and maximal heart rate (HRmax) obtained in both tests.

Methods

Cross‐sectional study including individuals with CF aged between 6 and 20 years old. Participants who were unable to perform the tests and/or presented signs of pulmonary exacerbation were excluded. Demographic, anthropometric, clinical and spirometric values ​​were collected. CPET and the MST were performed in two consecutive outpatient visits. HRmax, peripheral oxygen saturation, dyspnea, and VO2peak measured and estimated were compared.

Results

Twenty‐four patients, mean age 15.7 ± 4.2 years and FEV1 (% predicted) 76.4 ± 23.8, were included. Mean values ​​of HRmax (bpm) and HRmax in percent of predicted (HRmax%) were lower (P = 0.01) in the MST (171.6 ± 14.5 and 87.1 ± 7.5) compared to CPET (180.9 ± 10.0 and 91.9 ± 5.4). However, there was no significant differences between tests in the variation (delta) for HRmax and HRmax% (P = 0.17). A strong correlation (r = 0.79; P < 0.0001) was found between distance achieved (MST) and VO2peak (CPET). The regression model to estimate VO2peak resulted in the following equation: VO2(mL · kg−1 · min−1) = 20.301 + 0.019 × MST distance (meters). There was no difference (P = 0.50) between VO2peak measured (CPET) and estimated by the equation.

Conclusion

The MST may be an alternative method to evaluate exercise capacity and to predict VO2peak in children and adolescents with CF.
Imaging Interstitial Iron Concentrations in Gallium‐Doped Silicon Wafers
Authors: Post Regina , Niewelt Tim , Schön Jonas , Schindler Florian , Schubert Martin C.
Published: January 2019

In this work, the established method of iron imaging is transferred from B‐doped silicon to Ga‐doped material. For this purpose, the pairing and splitting conditions are investigated and a preparation procedure suggested that ensures a sufficient fraction of iron–gallium pairing and splitting, respectively. Furthermore the defect parameters available in literature are compared and evaluated for a suitable description of the injection dependent carrier lifetime measurements. A parameter set that enables a coherent and adequate iron evaluation is suggested. Thus, a robust method for spatially resolved determination of the interstitial iron concentration in Ga‐doped silicon wafers is presented.
Photocatalytic Activity of ZnO–SnO2 Ceramic Nanofibers for RhB Dye Degradation: Experimental Design, Modeling, and Process Optimization
Authors: Pascariu Petronela , Cojocaru Corneliu , Olaru Niculae , Airinei Anton
Published: January 2019

Photocatalytic degradation of rhodamine B (RhB) dye in aqueous solution is evaluated using ZnO−SnO2 nanofibers under visible‐ and UV‐light irradiation. The ceramic nanofibers are characterized by X‐ray diffractometry (XRD) and TEM technique. The results of XRD disclose the wurtzite phase for the inorganic structures. In turn, the microscopy analysis by TEM reveals the formation of the ultrathin ceramic fibers with 500 nm in diameter. The influence of the irradiation time, temperature, and pH on the color removal efficiency is investigated. UV–vis spectral analysis is used to measure the photocatalytic activity of metal oxide composites. The optimal conditions for the efficient RhB dye degradation under visible‐light are found to be: irradiation time *t = 13.3 h; temperature *T = 42 °C, and *pH = 9.5. In these conditions, a color removal efficiency of 94.20% is observed under visible‐light irradiation. In addition, a photocatalytic test under UV‐light irradiation is performed revealing a pseudo‐first‐order rate constant of 0.0166 min−1 and a color removal efficiency of 99.35%.
Bi‐Induced Electron Concentration Enhancement Being Responsible for Photoluminescence Blueshift and Broadening in InAs Films
Authors: Chen Xiren , Zhao Huan , Wu Xiaoyan , Wang Lijuan , Zhu Liangqing , Song Yuxin , Wang Shumin , Shao Jun
Published: January 2019

Photoluminescence (PL) study is conducted on InAs films molecular beam epitaxially grown on GaAs substrates with different Bi flux levels. A PL peak blueshift accompanied by linewidth broadening is found with the increase of Bi/As flux ratio, in contrast to the common Bi isoelectronic incorporation or surfactant effect. It is, with detailed lineshape analysis and the evidence of PL peak splitting in a magnetic filed, attributed to the electron concentration enhancement induced by Bi flux. The electron concentration in InAs film is evaluated, which is about 5‐fold enhanced as Bi/As flux ratio rises up from 0 to 1 × 10−3. The temperature dependence of the PL spectrum indicates that the carrier redistribution augments while the carrier–phonon Fröhlich scattering weakens in InAs films with high Bi/As flux ratios. These findings reveal a novel Bi effect of electron concentration enhancement, and contribute to the basic knowledge of Bi in III–V semiconductors.
Enhanced Quantum Synchronization via Quantum Machine Learning
Authors: Cárdenas‐López Francisco A. , Sanz Mikel , Retamal Juan Carlos , Solano Enrique
Published: January 2019

The quantum synchronization between a pair of two‐level systems inside two coupled cavities is studied. By using a digital–analog decomposition of the master equation that rules the system dynamics, it is shown that this approach leads to quantum synchronization between both two‐level systems. Moreover, in this digital–analog block decomposition, the fundamental elements of a quantum machine learning protocol can be identified, in which the agent and the environment (learning units) interact through a mediating system, namely, the register. If the algorithm can be additionally equipped with a classical feedback mechanism, which consists of projective measurements in the register, reinitialization of the register state, and local conditional operations on the agent and environment subspace, a powerful and flexible quantum machine learning protocol emerges. Indeed, numerical simulations show that this protocol enhances the synchronization process, even when every subsystem experiences different loss/decoherence mechanisms, and gives the flexibility to choose the synchronization state. Finally, an implementation is proposed, based on current technologies in superconducting circuits.
Electrochemical testing practices of environmentally friendly aerospace coatings for corrosion performance assessment
Authors: Kefallinou Zoi , Zhou Xiaorong , Curioni Michele
Published: January 2019

Hexavalent chromium has been successfully employed for corrosion protection purposes in aerospace coatings for decades. However, legislation will restrict the use of Cr6+ in the future and therefore the aerospace sector needs to identify alternative environmentally friendly coatings for corrosion protection. Before implementation of newly developed systems into actual components is possible, rigorous and time‐consuming testing practices are required to ensure the new systems can achieve the strict aerospace standards requirements. The emerging number of coating systems being developed, and the vast research conducted on the subject worldwide, make the selection of suitable replacements for industrial application challenging. In this work, differently pretreated aluminium AA2024 alloy surfaces are coated with conventional Cr6+ containing coating and compared with a number of industrial alternative coatings. Corrosion performance is assessed by real‐time imaging while immersed, by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and by standardised salt‐spray testing (SST). Results reveal that the performance ranking acquired by SST can be readily replaced by short‐term immersion tests, and the time to failure in SST can be estimated from key corrosion indicators arising from EIS measurements at specific immersion times.
Synthesis and Characterization of Positively Charged tris‐Imidazolium Calix[6]arene Hosts for Anion Recognition
Authors: Aloui Lobna , Elhabiri Mourad , Platas‐Iglesias Carlos , Esteban‐Gómez David , Abidi Rym , Chetcuti Michael J.
Published: January 2019

The syntheses of new tripodal ligands with effective C3 symmetry and anion recognition properties, are reported herein. The ligands have a 1,3,5‐tris‐methoxy‐2,4,6‐tris‐(α,ω‐bromoalkoxy)calix‐[6]arene as a backbone, and were prepared from 1,3,5‐tris‐methoxy‐p‐tert‐butyl‐calix[6]arene by alkylation with a series of α,ω‐dibromo‐alkanes [Br(CH2)nBr] of different chain lengths (n=2, 4 or 6). Further substitution of the bromo groups, via the use of 1‐methyl‐, 1‐mesityl‐or 2,6‐diisopropylphenyl‐1H‐imidazole, led to alkylation by imidazole units and afforded tripodal and tricationic 1,3,5‐tris‐methoxy‐2,4,6‐tris‐imidazolium‐p‐tert‐butyl‐calix[6]arenes. These scaffolds provide a framework for H‐bonded and electrostatic interactions with various anions and their anion binding properties were investigated by 1H NMR and UV‐visible spectroscopy. A sizeable selectivity for HSO4– (present as the n‐Bu4N+ salt) was demonstrated for most of the tripodal ligands considered in this work. Other anions such BF4–, ClO4–, PF6–, NO3–, Cl– exhibited weak to medium associations with the investigated ligands. A single crystal X‐ray study, unfortunately of poor quality, corroborated the geometry of the calix[6]arenes that was previously established by 1H NMR spectroscopy. The binding‐site geometry was more definitively probed by DFT calculations.

Introduction
The conditional mean spectra by disaggregating the eta spectral shape indicator
Authors: Mohandesi Mohammad Ali , Azarbakht Alireza , Ghafory‐Ashtiany Mohsen
Published: January 2019

Conditional spectra are a recent development in this field, which utilizes the advantages of spectral shape indicators, for example, epsilon and eta. The application of an eta indicator in conditional spectra calculations depends mainly on calculating the peak ground velocity epsilon, data about which are not readily available in the current literature. This issue has been solved by linear regression between the conventional epsilon and the peak ground velocity epsilon. However, not enough attention has been paid in the literature to the disaggregation of the eta indicator. For this reason, the disaggregation of seismic hazard based on the use of an eta indicator has been investigated in this paper, based on a simplified linear seismic source. The obtained results were compared with the available approach in the literature, which shows that this refinement has a meaningful effect on the conditional spectra specifically in the short period range. Furthermore, eta‐based conditional spectra are used at different hazard levels to select ground‐motion records. A three‐storeyed building is then analysed, and the corresponding annual probability of failure is calculated based on the full dataset as well as on the records, which were selected based on conditional spectra.
Displaced B−c mesons as an inclusive signature of weakly decaying double beauty hadrons
Authors: Gershon T. , Poluektov A.
Published: January 2019

Abstract

The recent discovery, by the LHCb collaboration, of the Ξ

cc

+ +
doubly charmed baryon, has renewed interest in the spectroscopy of doubly heavy hadrons. Experimentally, however, searches for such states appear highly challenging. The reconstructed final states tend to involve multiple heavy flavoured (beauty or charm) hadrons, so the yield for any exclusive decay mode will be suppressed to unobservably low levels by the product of several branching fractions, each of which is typically 10−3–10−2. Noting that decays of double beauty hadrons are the only possible source of B

c

−
mesons that are displaced from the primary vertices of proton-proton collisions at the LHC, a more promising inclusive search strategy is proposed.
Curved spacetime effective field theory (cEFT) — construction with the heat kernel method
Authors: Nakonieczny Łukasz
Published: January 2019

Abstract

In the presented paper we tackle the problem of the effective field theory in curved spacetime (cEFT) construction. To this end, we propose to use the heat kernel method. After introducing the general formalism based on the well established formulas known from the application of the heat kernel method to deriving the one-loop effective action in curved spacetime, we tested it on selected problems. The discussed examples were chosen to serve as a check of validity of the derived formulas by comparing the obtained results to the known flat spacetime calculations. On the other hand, they allowed us to obtain new results concerning the influence of the gravity induced operators on the effective field theory without unnecessary calculational complications.
Modulating heterologous pathways and optimizing fermentation conditions for biosynthesis of kaempferol and astragalin from naringenin in Escherichia coli
Authors: Pei Jianjun , Chen Anna , Dong Ping , Shi Xuejia , Zhao Linguo , Cao Fuliang , Tang Feng
Published: January 2019

Kaempferol and astragalin are used as standards to assess the quality of Ginkgo biloba extract and Radix astragali, respectively, and possess numerous biological properties. In this study, we constructed a recombinant strain with a highly efficient biosynthetic pathway of kaempferol by screening key enzyme genes, designing a synthetic fusion enzyme and increasing the gene copy number. By optimizing conversion and fed-batch fermentation conditions, maximal kaempferol production reached 1184.2 ± 16.5 mg/L, which represents the highest yield of kaempferol from naringenin reported to date. Based on this result, glycosyltransferase (AtUGT78D2) and an efficient UDP-glucose synthesis pathway were introduced into the recombinant strain to produce astragalin, resulting in maximal astragalin production at 1738.5 ± 24.8 mg/L without kaempferol accumulation. The efficient synthesis pathway described in this study for kaempferol and astragalin biosynthesis can be widely used for flavonoid biosynthesis in Escherichia coli.
Giving feedback on others’ writing
Authors: Watling Chris , Lingard Lorelei
Published: January 2019

None
Developmental duration and predation rate of the coccidophagous coccinellid Rhyzobius lophanthae (Blaisdell) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) on Aspidiotus nerii Bouche
Authors: Abu Alloush A.H.
Published: January 2019

The consumption rate, survival, and developmental duration of the coccidophagous coccinellid Rhyzobius lophanthae (Blaisdell) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), a predator of the armored scale insect, Aspidiotus nerii Bouche (Hemiptera: Diaspididae) were studied under laboratory conditions at two temperature regimes of 25 ± 1 and 30 ± 1°C, 50–65% RH, and 16L:8D. Developmental time (egg to adult) significantly decreased with increase in the temperature. It lasted 27.5 days at 25 ± 1°C and 21.3 days at 30 ± 1°C. The development threshold of R. lophanthae immature stages was 7.823°C, while the thermal constant was 472.379 degree-days. No mortality was recorded during the incubation period. The total mortality rate amongst the larval instars was with 3.33% at 25 ± 1°C and 6.77% at 30 ± 1°C. The sex ratio male to female was 1:1.06. The consumption rate significantly increased with increasing temperatures and within the larval instars. The four larval instar consumed 24.3 and 33.5 adults of A. nerii at 25 ± 1 and 30 ± 1°C, respectively. Overall, micro-climate temperature had a significant impact on the biological parameters of R. lophanthae.
Kalasinemys, a new xinjiangchelyid turtle from the Late Jurassic of NE Thailand
Authors: Tong Haiyan , Naksri Wilailuck , Buffetaut Eric , Suteethorn Suravech , Suteethorn Varavudh , Chantasit Phornphen , Claude Julien
Published: January 2019

A new xinjiangchelyid turtle,Kalasinemys prasarttongosothin. gen. n. sp., is described on the basis of skull and shell material from the Upper Jurassic Phu Kradung Formation at Phu Noi locality, Kalasin Province, in NE Thailand. This second xinjiangchelyid turtle from Phu Noi is distinct fromPhunoichelys thirakhuptiby the smooth shell surface, the presence of a cervical notch, and vertebral 1 narrower than nuchal. The skull presents an arterial system characteristic of the Xinjiangchelyidae (basal Eucryptodira), and its outline is similar to that ofAnnemysspp. known from the Middle–Late Jurassic of China and Mongolia, but distinct from the latter mainly by the wider triturating surface, smaller foramen palatinum posterius and the shape of the prefrontal and frontal, as well as that of the basisphenoid and basioccipital. Based on the turtle assemblages, the correlation with mainland Asia further supports a Late Jurassic age for the lower part of the Phu Kradung Formation where Phu Noi site is located stratigraphically. Our study provides new insight on the evolution of the basal eucryptodiran turtles in Asia.
Media Coverage and the Cost of Debt
Authors: Gao Haoyu , Wang Junbo , Wang Yanchu , Wu Chunchi , Dong Xi
Published: January 2019

This paper investigates the relation between media coverage and offering yield spreads using a comprehensive dataset of 5,338 industrial bonds issued from 1990 to 2011. We find that media coverage is negatively associated with firms’ cost of debt. This association is robust to controlling for standard yield determinants, different model specifications, and endogeneity. We identify 4 economic channels through which media coverage influences the cost of debt: Information asymmetry, governance, liquidity, and default risk. Importantly, media coverage has an independent influence beyond the effects of these economic mechanisms and is not a proxy for other firm attributes.
Levels of early-childhood behavioral inhibition predict distinct neurodevelopmental pathways to pediatric anxiety
Authors: Abend Rany , Swetlitz Caroline , White Lauren K. , Shechner Tomer , Bar-Haim Yair , Filippi Courtney , Kircanski Katharina , Haller Simone P. , Benson Brenda E. , Chen Gang , Leibenluft Ellen , Fox Nathan A. , Pine Daniel S.
Published: January 2019

Background

Anxiety symptoms gradually emerge during childhood and adolescence. Individual differences in behavioral inhibition (BI), an early-childhood temperament, may shape developmental paths through which these symptoms arise. Cross-sectional research suggests that level of early-childhood BI moderates associations between later anxiety symptoms and threat-related amygdala–prefrontal cortex (PFC) circuitry function. However, no study has characterized these associations longitudinally. Here, we tested whether level of early-childhood BI predicts distinct evolving associations between amygdala–PFC function and anxiety symptoms across development.

Methods

Eighty-seven children previously assessed for BI level in early childhood provided data at ages 10 and/or 13 years, consisting of assessments of anxiety and an fMRI-based dot-probe task (including threat, happy, and neutral stimuli). Using linear-mixed-effects models, we investigated longitudinal changes in associations between anxiety symptoms and threat-related amygdala–PFC connectivity, as a function of early-childhood BI.

Results

In children with a history of high early-childhood BI, anxiety symptoms became, with age, morenegativelyassociated with right amygdala–left dorsolateral-PFC connectivity when attention was to be maintained on threat. In contrast, with age, low-BI children showed an increasinglypositiveanxiety–connectivity association during the same task condition. Behaviorally, at age 10, anxiety symptoms did not relate to fluctuations in attention bias (attention bias variability, ABV) in either group; by age 13, low-BI children showed a negative anxiety–ABV association, whereas high-BI children showed a positive anxiety–ABV association.

Conclusions

Early-childhood BI levels predict distinct neurodevelopmental pathways to pediatric anxiety symptoms. These pathways involve distinct relations among brain function, behavior, and anxiety symptoms, which may inform diagnosis and treatment.
Voters and Abstainers in National and European Elections
Authors: Stockemer Daniel , Blais Andre
Published: January 2019

Through a panel analysis conducted in Bavaria, which covers two adjacent elections – the federal elections and the European elections in 2013 and 2014 – we examine the attitudinal factors that drive citizens’ propensity to turn out. We find that abstainers have generally low levels of knowledge, interest and sense of civic duty. National-level voters have relatively high interest, knowledge and sense of duty in national politics, but not in European affairs. In contrast, European- and national-level voters have high interest, knowledge and a sense of duty for both national and European politics. This finding contextualizes the characterization of European elections as second-ordernationalelections. While prior research has established that voters make their vote choice based on national-level politics, we demonstrate that European elections are not national elections when it comes to citizens’ decision to vote. Rather, knowledge, interest and a sense of duty about national politics are not sufficient conditions for somebody to vote in the European elections. The person needs to have the same positive attitudes about European affairs as they have about national politics to participate in European elections.
Gabriel and the Virgin II
Authors: Altmann Simon , Leiva Gloria Martínez
Published: January 2019

In a previous paper in the European Review one of us discussed the positioning of the Archangel Gabriel in Annunciation pictures from the point of view of his chirality.1 By means of a very extensive database it was shown that the Angel is mostly represented as dextral, which favours his position on the left of the picture. We have now extended and improved this database. In the previous work we were able to discuss chirality in only a fraction of the over 1000 examples treated, because in many of them the Angel has his arms crossed on his chest. We observed that dextrals normally do this with the right arm over the left one. In 1073 examples from the third century (henceforth C3) to 1750 we found only 99 sinistrals. The period from C3to 1400 is very important, being more stable, so that the pictorial traditions of the Annunciation were established during it and it shows only two sinistrals over 100 examples. There are several hypotheses about the positioning of the Angel and Virgin in the pictures which were not discussed in the previous paper and which will now be treated in the light of our results. It is clear that there are two different strands: until 1400 the weight of tradition prevails, but after this period fashion becomes more significant, with great painters such as Titian creating a large number of imitators. After 1400, composition becomes freer and more complex and artists become more interested in the pictorial impact of their work than the iconographic impact. The new freedom enjoyed by the artists means nevertheless that some purely pictorial conventions acquire greater weight; they appear to rule the composition and are discussed in detail in this article.
Religion, Grammar and Style: Wittgenstein and Hamann
Authors: Halpern Maya
Published: January 2019

In this article, I claim that Wittgenstein was familiar with Hamann’s work, particularly with two of the latter’s original contributions: (a) the idea of transforming Luther’s concept of grammar into a critical philosophical and linguistic tool; and (b) Hamann’s use of a kenotic, impure style as a means to attain the humility his religious stance demands. I suggest that an understanding of Hamann’s style as a tool to achieve humility sheds light on Wittgenstein’s later refutation of the purity of the Tractarian style. As reflected in remarks published in collections such as Culture and Value and Public and Private Occasions, Wittgenstein – like Hamann – aspired to modesty not only in his private life, but also in his philosophical work, attributing it a religious significance. In this context, his later style of philosophizing, characterized by the use of everyday rather than metaphysical terms, the inclusion of impure concepts and humble examples, dialogue and fragmentariness, is a means to ‘dismantle one’s pride’, in the practice of philosophy conceived as ‘working on oneself’.
Adaptability analysis in a participatory variety trial of organic vegetable crops
Authors: Lyon Alexandra , Tracy William , Colley Micaela , Culbert Patrick , Mazourek Michael , Myers James , Zystro Jared , Silva Erin M.
Published: January 2019

Successful organic farming requires crop varieties that are resilient to environmental variability. Assessing variety performance across the range of conditions represented on working farms is vital to developing such varieties; however, data collected from on-farm, participatory trials can be difficult to both collect and interpret. To assess the utility of data arising from participatory trialing efforts, we examined the performance of butternut squash (Cucurbita moschataL.), broccoli (Brassica oleraceaL.) and carrot (Daucus carotaL.) varieties grown in diverse organic production environments in participatory trials in Oregon, Washington, Wisconsin and New York using adaptability analysis (regression of variety means on environmental index). Patterns of adaptation varied across varieties, with some demonstrating broad adaptation and others showing specific adaptation to low- or high-yielding environments. Selection of varieties with broadvsspecific adaptation should be guided by farmers’ risk tolerance and on-farm environmental variation. Adaptability analysis was appropriate for continuous variables (e.g., yield traits), but less so for ordinal variables and quality traits such as flavor and appearance, which can be vitally important in organic vegetable crop variety selection. The relative advantages of adaptability analysis and additive main effects and multiplicative interactions are also discussed in relation to on-farm trial networks. This work demonstrated the unique challenges presented by extensive participatory vegetable trialing efforts, which, as compared to grain crops, require novel approaches to facilitating farmer participation as well as data collection and analysis. Efficient, precise and reliable methods for evaluating quality related traits in these crops would allow researchers to assess stability and adaptation across a wider range of traits, providing advantages for effective plant breeding and trialing activities within the organic sector.
Mini-Review: Recovery without treatment in gambling disorder and problematic gambling
Authors: Rumpf Hans-Jürgen , Petzold Maria , Bischof Anja , Bischof Gallus
Published: January 2019

Mini-Review: Überwindung von Glücksspielstörung und problematischem Glücksspielen ohne Behandlung

Abstract. ﻿Zusammenfassung:﻿ ﻿Ziel:﻿ Eine Reihe von Studien konnte zeigen, dass im Bereich der substanzbezogenen Störungen Remissionen ohne formelle Hilfe weitverbreit sind. Weniger ist dazu im Bereich von Verhaltenssüchten bekannt. Ziel ist eine Übersicht zur Datenlage unbehandelter Remission bei Glücksspielstörungen zur Verfügung zu stellen. Methode: Es wurde eine systematische Recherche in PubMed and Web of Science durchgeführt. Nach Ausschluss von Duplikaten wurden 152 Publikationen hinsichtlich Relevanz und Einschlusskriterien geprüft. Insgesamt konnten 8 Studien für dieses Review genutzt werden. Ergebnisse: Etwa 80 % aller Remittierten – mit höheren Raten bei Männern im Vergleich zu Frauen – nutzen keine formale Hilfe. Remittierte mit Behandlung wiesen eine ausgeprägtere Schwere und mehr negative Konsequenzen auf. Die methodische Qualität der Studien weist deutliche Unterschiede auf und ist auf der einen Seite durch kleine Stichproben, Sample-Selection-Bias und wenig präzisen Erhebungsinstrumenten gekennzeichnet, während die Allgemeinbevölkerungsstudien eine sehr hohe Qualität aufweisen. Schlussfolgerung: Die Ergebnisse zeigen Ähnlichkeiten zu Befunden in Studien zu unbehandelter Remission bei substanzbezogenen Störungen auf. Die geringe Anzahl der gefundenen Studie in dieser systematischen Übersicht weisen auf eine Forschungslücke hin. Dies ist in Anbetracht dessen, dass solche Studien wertvolle Hinweise für die Prävention und Behandlung zur Vermeidung und Überwindung von Glücksspielstörungen ermöglichen, bedauerlich.
The impact of supply reductionon the prevalence of gamblingparticipation and disordered gambling behavior: A systematic review
Authors: Meyer Gerhard , Kalke Jens , Hayer Tobias
Published: January 2019

Abstract. Background: Current gaming arcade laws in Germany are intended to reduce significantly the number of gambling locations. Aim: The purpose of this paper is to provide a systematic summary and evaluation of the state of research internationally regarding the effects of a reduction in the supply of games of chance on the prevalence of gambling involvement and disordered gambling behavior in the population. Method: A systematic search was made of the databases PsycINFO, Psyindex, Cinahl, Web of Science and Medline using relevant search terms. Results: In total, eight studies were identified that met the criteria for inclusion. The few findings that exist, which are to some extent inconsistent, show that in the period following reduction in supply, there is a decline in participation, in the number of frequent gamblers, in demand for therapy and in the number of problem gamblers. In parallel to this, a few individual studies showed an increase in frequency of participation in other forms of gambling. Conclusions: Possible reasons for the incomplete and inconsistent pattern of findings are discussed and attention is drawn to the limitations of the review. Ultimately, effective prevention should encompass coordinated, broadly based and sustained efforts that cover aspects of both behavioral and situational prevention.
Research in the field of gambling disorders funded by gambling providers: lessons to learn fromthe pharmaceutical industry?
Authors: Batra Anil
Published: January 2019

Abstract. Introduction: The importance of research funding for potential conflicts of interests has been widely discussed in the field of substance-related disorders: research funding by industries producing alcohol, tobacco or drugs as well as by pharmaceutical companies contains a substantial risk of publication bias, conflicts of health care authorities as well as researchers and opinion leaders in the field of addiction research and medicine. Disclosure of all conflicts of interest is an indispensable consequence in every case. Extent of financial support, fields of sponsoring and publication bias are presented. Due to parallels between funding in substance related research and research on pathological gambling and the industrial interest in research of pathological gambling interferences as common in the research of other substances have to be considered as problematic. Discussion and Conclusion: We need (1) evaluation of the potential conflicts of interest on the part of state organizations (2) limitation of advertising and indirect sponsoring, (3) disclosure of any financial and non-financial relationship and, in particular, the scope of a financial relationship between universities, research institutes, study leaders, authors, reviewers and responsible editors of research journals on the gambling providers, (4) a rating system that quantifies a potential publication bias, (5) an exclusion of persons with significant sponsorship in the past five years from responsible functions with regard to the field of gambling, and (6) a pool of public funds for research funding managed by an independent body.
Light Absorption by Ambient Black and Brown Carbon and its Dependence on Black Carbon Coating State for Two California, USA, Cities in Winter and Summer
Authors: Cappa Christopher D. , Zhang Xiaolu , Russell Lynn M. , Collier Sonya , Lee Alex K. Y. , Chen Chia‐Li , Betha Raghu , Chen Sijie , Liu Jun , Price Derek J. , Sanchez Kevin J. , McMeeking Gavin R. , Williams Leah R. , Onasch Timothy B. , Worsnop Douglas R. , Abbatt Jon , Zhang Qi
Published: January 2019

Observations from a wintertime and summertime field campaign are used to assess the relationship between black and brown carbon (BC and BrC, respectively) optical properties and particle composition and coating state. The wintertime campaign, in Fresno, CA, was impacted by primary emissions from residential wood burning, secondary organic and inorganic particle formation, and BC from motor vehicles. Two major types of BrC were observed in wintertime. One occurred primarily at night—the result of primary biomass burning emissions. The second was enhanced in daytime and strongly associated with particulate nitrate and the occurrence of fog. The biomass‐burning‐derived BrC absorbed more strongly than the nitrate‐associated BrC but had a weaker wavelength dependence. The wintertime BC‐specific mass absorption coefficient (MACBC) exhibited limited dependence on the ensemble‐average coating‐to‐BC mass ratio (Rcoat‐rBC) at all wavelengths, even up to Rcoat‐rBC of ~5. For the summertime campaign, in Fontana, CA, BC dominated the light absorption, with negligible BrC contribution even after substantial photochemical processing. The summertime MACBC exhibited limited dependence on Rcoat‐rBC, even up to ratios of >10. Based on the four classes of BC‐containing particles identified by Lee et al. (2017, https://doi.org/10.5194/acp‐17‐15055‐2017) for the summertime measurements, the general lack of an absorption enhancement can be partly—although not entirely—attributed to an unequal distribution of coating materials between the BC‐containing particle types. These observations demonstrate that in relatively near‐source environments, even those impacted by strong secondary aerosol production, the ensemble‐average, mixing‐induced absorption enhancement for BC due to coatings can be quite small.
Evaluating the Efficiency of Data Assimilation
Authors: Sidder Aaron
Published: January 2019

Information is lost when researchers combine statistical models and remote sensing data, but just how much is often unclear. A new study offers a framework to measure the inefficiency.