bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The combined hydrodynamic and thermodynamic effects of immobilized proteins on the diffusion of mobile transmembrane proteins
Authors: Singh Rohit R. , Sangani Ashok S. , Daniel Susan , Koch Donald L.
Published: August 2019

The plasma membranes of cells are thin viscous sheets in which some transmembrane proteins have two-dimensional mobility and some are immobilized. Previous studies have shown that immobile proteins retard the short-time diffusivity of mobile particles through hydrodynamic interactions and that steric effects of immobile proteins reduce the long-time diffusivity in a model that neglects hydrodynamic interactions. We present a rigorous derivation of the long-time diffusivity of a single mobile protein interacting hydrodynamically and thermodynamically with an array of immobile proteins subject to periodic boundary conditions. This method is based on a finite element method (FEM) solution of the probability density of the mobile protein diffusing with a position-dependent mobility determined through a multipole solution of Stokes equations. The simulated long-time diffusivity in square arrays decreases as the spacing in the array approaches the particle size in a manner consistent with a lubrication analysis. In random arrays, steric effects lead to a percolation threshold volume fraction above which long-time diffusion is arrested. The FEM/multipole approach is used to compute the long-time diffusivity far away from this threshold. An approximate analysis of mobile protein diffusion through a network of pores connected by bonds with resistances determined by the FEM/multipole calculations is then used to explore higher immobile area fractions and to evaluate the finite simulation cell size scaling behaviour of diffusion near the percolation threshold. Surprisingly, the ratio of the long-time diffusivity to the spatially averaged short-time diffusivity in these two-dimensional fixed arrays is higher in the presence of hydrodynamic interactions than in their absence. Finally, the implications of this work are discussed, including the possibility of using the methods developed here to investigate more complex diffusive phenomena observed in cell membranes.
Flows over surface-mounted bluff bodies with different spanwise widths submerged in a deep turbulent boundary layer
Authors: Fang Xingjun , Tachie Mark F.
Published: August 2019

The spatio-temporal dynamics of separation bubbles induced by surface-mounted bluff bodies with different spanwise widths and submerged in a thick turbulent boundary layer is experimentally investigated. The streamwise extent of the bluff bodies is fixed at 2.36 body heights and the spanwise aspect ratio ($AR$), defined as the ratio between the width and height, is increased from 1 to 20. The thickness of the upstream turbulent boundary layer is 4.8 body heights, and the dimensionless shear and turbulence intensity evaluated at the body height are 0.23 % and 15.8 %, respectively, while the Reynolds number based on the body height and upstream free-stream velocity is 12 300. For these upstream conditions and limited streamwise extent of the bluff bodies, two distinct and strongly interacting separation bubbles are formed over and behind the bluff bodies. A time-resolved particle image velocimetry is used to simultaneously measure the velocity field within these separation bubbles. Based on the dynamics of the mean separation bubbles over and behind the bluff bodies, the flow fields are categorized into three-dimensional, transitional and two-dimensional regimes. The results indicate that the low-frequency flapping motions of the separation bubble on top of the bluff body with $\mathit{AR}=1$ are primarily influenced by the vortex shedding motion, while those with larger aspect ratios are modulated by the large-scale streamwise elongated structures embedded in the oncoming turbulent boundary layer. For $\mathit{AR}=1$ and 20, the flapping motions in the wake region are strongly influenced by those on top of the bluff bodies but with a time delay that is dependent on the $AR$. Moreover, an expansion of the separation bubble on the top surface tends to lead to an expansion and contraction of separation bubbles in the wake of $\mathit{AR}=20$ and 1, respectively. As for the transitional case of $\mathit{AR}=8$, the separation bubbles over and behind the body are in phase over a wide range of time difference. The dynamics of the shear layer in the wake region of the transitional case is remarkably more complex than the limiting two-dimensional and three-dimensional configurations.
Flow physics and dynamics of flow-induced pitch oscillations of an airfoil
Authors: Menon Karthik , Mittal Rajat
Published: August 2019

We conduct a computational study of flow-induced pitch oscillations of a rigid airfoil at a chord-based Reynolds number of 1000. A sharp-interface immersed boundary method is used to simulate two-dimensional incompressible flow, and this is coupled with the equations for a rigid foil supported at the elastic axis with a linear torsional spring. We explore the effect of spring stiffness, equilibrium angle-of-attack and elastic-axis location on the onset of flutter, and the analysis of the simulation data provides insights into the time scales and mechanisms that drive the onset and dynamics of flutter. The dynamics of this configuration includes complex phenomena such as bifurcations, non-monotonic saturation amplitudes, hysteresis and non-stationary limit-cycle oscillations. We show the utility of ‘maps’ of energy exchange between the flow and the airfoil system, as a way to understand, and even predict, this complex behaviour.
Drone-Mounted Lidar Survey of Maya Settlement and Landscape
Authors: Murtha Timothy M. , Broadbent Eben N. , Golden Charles , Scherer Andrew , Schroder Whittaker , Wilkinson Ben , Zambrano Angélica Almeyda
Published: August 2019

We conducted unmanned aerial vehicle lidar missions in the Maya Lowlands between June 2017 and June 2018 to develop appropriate methods, procedures, and standards for drone lidar surveys of ancient Maya settlements and landscapes. Three site locations were tested within upper Usumacinta River region using Phoenix Lidar Systems: Piedras Negras, Guatemala, was tested in 2017, and Budsilha and El Infiernito, both in Mexico, were tested in 2018. These sites represent a range of natural and cultural contexts, which make them ideal to evaluate the usefulness of the technology in the field. Results from standard digital elevation and surface models demonstrate the utility of deploying drone lidar in the Maya Lowlands and throughout Latin America. Drone survey can be used to target and efficiently document ancient landscapes and settlement. Such an approach is adaptive to fieldwork and is cost effective but still requires planning and thoughtful evaluation of samples. Future studies will test and evaluate the methods and techniques for filtering and processing these data.
Intake of starch and sugars and total and cause-specific mortality in a Japanese community: the Takayama Study
Authors: Nagata Chisato , Wada Keiko , Yamakawa Michiyo , Konishi Kie , Goto Yuko , Koda Sachi , Mizuta Fumi , Uji Takahiro
Published: August 2019

Studies on the intake of different types of carbohydrates and long-term mortality are sparse. We examined the association of starch, total and each type of sugar and free sugars with the risk of total and cause-specific mortality in a cohort of the general population in Japan. Study subjects were 29 079 residents from the Takayama Study, Japan, who responded to a self-administered questionnaire in 1992. Diet was assessed by a validated FFQ at the baseline. Mortality was ascertained during 16 years of follow-up. We noted 2901 deaths (974 cancer related and 775 cardiovascular related) in men and 2438 death (646 cancer related and 903 cardiovascular related) in women. In men, intake of starch was inversely associated with total mortality after controlling for covariates (hazard ratio (HR) for the highest quartile v. lowest quartile: 0·71; 95 % CI 0·60, 0·84; Ptrend < 0·001). Intakes of total sugars, glucose, fructose, sucrose, maltose and free and naturally occurring sugars were significantly positively associated with total mortality in men (HR for the highest v. lowest quartile of total sugar: 1·27; 95 % CI 1·12, 1·45; Ptrend < 0·0001). Similar relations were observed for cardiovascular mortality and non-cancer, non-cardiovascular mortality in men. In women, there was no significant association between any type of carbohydrates and mortality except that intake of free sugars was significantly positively associated with total and non-cancer, non-cardiovascular mortality. Data suggest that the high intake of starch reduces mortality, whereas the high intake of sugars, including glucose, fructose and sucrose, increases mortality in Japanese men.
Claims-Based Co-management in Norway's Arctic? Examining Sami Land Governance as a Case of Treaty Federalism
Authors: Spitzer Aaron John , Selle Per
Published: August 2019

Around the world, Indigenous peoples seek increased control of traditional lands. In northern Canada, such control may be afforded by claims-based co-management regimes. Such regimes are a common, and sometimes celebrated, component of treaty federalism. In Norway, Europe's only Indigenous people, the Sami, now participate in a land-management regime: the Finnmark Estate (FeFo). We explore whether FeFo is, in effect, claims-based co-management and whether Sami thus enjoy the sort of guaranteed shared rule envisioned in treaty federalism. We compare FeFo to Canadian co-management in three dimensions: novelty, independence and Indigenous influence. We conclude FeFo is indeed claims-based co-management. But FeFo falls short of the treaty-federal ideal, for reasons possibly including bureaucratic capture, fragile legitimacy, conflicting interpretations of the Sami interest and conflicting views on the merits of shared rule.
Isolated perfused udder model for transcriptome analysis in response toStreptococcus agalactiae
Authors: Weller Mayara M. D. C. A. , Fonseca Isabela , Sbardella Ana P. , Pinto Isabella S. B. , Viccini Lyderson F. , Brandão Humberto M. , Gern Juliana C. , Carvalho Wanessa A. , Guimarães Alessandro S. , Brito Maria A. V. P. , Munari Danísio P. , Silva Marcos V. G. B. , Martins Marta F.
Published: August 2019

This study aimed to evaluate the transcriptional changes occurring in isolated perfused mammary alveolar tissue in response to inoculation withS. agalactiaeand to identify the most affected biological functions and pathways after 3 h. Four udders taken at slaughter from cows with healthy mammary gland were perfused ex situ with warmed and gassed Tyrode's solution. Mammary alveolar tissue samples were taken from the left fore and rear quarters (IQ-inoculated quarters) before inoculation (hour 0) and at 3 h post inoculation (hpi) and at the same times from control right fore and rear quarters (not inoculated: NIQ). A total of 1756 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified between IQ and NIQ at 3 hpi using edgeR package. Within this set of DEGs, 952 were up regulated and mainly involved with innate immune response and inflammatory response, e.g.,CD14,CCL5,TLR2,IL-8,SAA3, as well as in transcriptional regulation such asFOS,STAT3andNFKBIA. Genes down-regulated (804) included those involved with lipid synthesis e.g.,APOC2,SCD,FABP3andFABP4. The most affected pathways were chemokine signaling, Wnt signaling and complement and coagulation cascades, which likely reflects the early stage response of mammary tissue toS. agalactiaeinfection. No significant gene expression changes were detected by RNA-Seq in the others contrasts. Real time-PCR confirmed the increase in mRNA abundance of immune-related genes:TLR2,TLR4,IL-1β, andIL-10at 3 hpi between IQ and NIQ. The expression profiles ofCasp1andBaxfor any contrasts were unaffected whereasBcl2was increased in IQ, which suggests no induction of apoptosis during the first hours after infection. Results provided novel information regarding the early functional pathways and gene network that orchestrate innate immune responses toS. agalactiaeinfection. This knowledge could contribute to new strategies to enhance resistance to this disease, such as genomic selection.
Waves in a warm pair plasma: a relativistically complete two-fluid analysis
Authors: Keppens Rony , Goedbloed Hans , Durrive Jean-Baptiste
Published: August 2019

We present an ideal two-fluid wave mode analysis for a pair plasma, extending an earlier study for cold conditions to the warm pair plasma case. Starting from the completely symmetrized means for writing the governing linearized equations in the pair fluid rest frame, we discuss the governing dispersion relation containing all six pairs of forward and backward propagating modes, which are conveniently labelled as S, A, F, M, O and X. These relate to the slow (S), Alfvén (A) and fast (F) magnetohydrodynamic waves, include a modified (M) electrostatic mode, as well as the electromagnetic O and X branches. In the dispersion relation, only two parameters appear, which define the pair plasma magnetization$E^{2}\in [0,\infty ]$and the squared pair plasma sound speed $v^{2}$, measured in units of the light speed $c$. The description is valid also in the highly relativistic regime, where either a high magnetization and/or a relativistic temperature (hence sound speed) is reached. We recover the exact relativistic single-fluid magnetohydrodynamic expressions for the S, A and F families in the low wavenumber–frequency regime, which can be obtained for any choice of the equation of state. We argue that, as in a cold pair plasma, purely parallel or purely perpendicular propagation with respect to the magnetic field vector$\boldsymbol{B}$is special, and near-parallel or near-perpendicular orientations demonstrate avoided crossings of branches at computable wavenumbers and frequencies. The complete six-mode phase and group diagram views are provided as well, visually demonstrating the intricate anisotropies in all wave modes, as well as their transformations. Analytic expressions for all six wave group speeds at both small and large wavenumbers complement the analysis.
RON2, a novel gene in Babesia bigemina, contains conserved, immunodominant B-cell epitopes that induce antibodies that block merozoite invasion
Authors: Mosqueda Juan , Hidalgo-Ruiz Mario , Calvo-Olvera Diana Alexandra , Hernandez-Silva Diego Josimar , Ueti Massaro Wilson , Mercado-Uriostegui Miguel Angel , Rodriguez Angelina , Ramos-Aragon Juan Alberto , Hernandez-Ortiz Ruben , Kawazu Shin-ichiro , Igarashi Ikuo
Published: August 2019

Bovine babesiosis is the most important protozoan disease transmitted by ticks. In Plasmodium falciparum, another Apicomplexa protozoan, the interaction of rhoptry neck protein 2 (RON2) with apical membrane antigen-1 (AMA-1) has been described to have a key role in the invasion process. To date, RON2 has not been described in Babesia bigemina, the causal agent of bovine babesiosis in the Americas. In this work, we found a ron2 gene in the B. bigemina genome. RON2 encodes a protein that is 1351 amino acids long, has an identity of 64% (98% coverage) with RON2 of B. bovis and contains the CLAG domain, a conserved domain in Apicomplexa. B. bigemina ron2 is a single copy gene and it is transcribed and expressed in blood stages as determined by RT-PCR, Western blot, and confocal microscopy. Serum samples from B. bigemina-infected bovines were screened for the presence of RON2-specific antibodies, showing the recognition of conserved B-cell epitopes. Importantly, in vitro neutralization assays showed an inhibitory effect of RON2-specific antibodies on the red blood cell invasion by B. bigemina. Therefore, RON2 is a novel antigen in B. bigemina and contains conserved B-cell epitopes, which induce antibodies that inhibit merozoite invasion.
Flea infestation, social contact, and stress in a gregarious rodent species: minimizing the potential parasitic costs of group-living
Authors: Warburton Elizabeth M. , Khokhlova Irina S. , Palme Rupert , Surkova Elena N. , van der Mescht Luther , Krasnov Boris R.
Published: August 2019

Both parasitism and social contact are common sources of stress that many gregarious species encounter in nature. Upon encountering such stressors, individuals secrete glucocorticoids and although short-term elevation of glucocorticoids is adaptive, long-term increases are correlated with higher mortality and deleterious reproductive effects. Here, we used an experimental host-parasite system, social rodents Acomys cahirinus and their characteristic fleas Parapulex chephrenis, in a fully-crossed design to test the effects of social contact and parasitism on stress during pregnancy. By analysing faecal glucocorticoid metabolites, we found that social hierarchy did not have a significant effect on glucocorticoid concentration. Rather, solitary females had significantly higher glucocorticoid levels than females housed in pairs. We found a significant interaction between the stressors of parasitism and social contact with solitary, uninfested females having the highest faecal glucocorticoid metabolite levels suggesting that both social contact and infestation mitigate allostatic load in pregnant rodents. Therefore, the increased risk of infestation that accompanies group-living could be outweighed by positive aspects of social contact within A. cahirinus colonies in nature.
In vitroinfluence ofTheileria annulataon the functions of bovine dendritic cells for stimulation of T lymphocyte proliferation
Authors: Rashid Muhammad , Liu Junlong , Guan Guiquan , Wang Jinming , Li Zhi , Hassan Muhammad Adeel , Rashid Muhammad Imran , Mukhtar Muhammad Uzair , Luo Jianxun , Yin Hong
Published: August 2019

The present study was performed on antigen-presenting cells (APCs) ofTheileria annulatatransformed dendritic cells (TaDCs) and monocyte-derived dendritic cells (MoDCs) to compare differences in antigen presentation and stimulation of T lymphocyte proliferation. Antigen presentation for T lymphocyte proliferation was analysed by flow cytometry. Additionally, the level of mRNA transcription of small GTPases of the Rab family expressed in the TaDC cell line was analysed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (Q-RT-PCR). The endocytosis rate of TaDCs was significantly (P< 0.01) lower than in MoDCs. In contrast, when T lymphocytes were co-cultured with TaDC-APCs T cell proliferation was similar, while co-culture with MoDC-APC stimulated proliferation of CD4+cells to a greater degree than CD8+cells. However, the efficacy of TaDC-APCs to stimulate T lymphocytes dropped as the number of passages of TaDC-APC increased. Likewise, the transcription level of Rab family genes also significantly (P> 0.001) declined with progressive passages (>50) of the TaDC cell line. We conclude that initially the TaDC cell line efficiently presents antigen to stimulate T lymphocyte proliferation to produce a cellular immune response against the presented antigen.
Host dispersal and landscape conversion are associated with the composition of haemosporidian parasites of the golden-winged warbler
Authors: Enslow Chelsea , Vallender Rachel , Rondel Emily , Koper Nicola
Published: August 2019

Understanding factors that influence the spatial and temporal distributions of blood parasites is important to help predict how host species and their parasites may respond to global change. Factors that may influence parasite distributions are land cover and host dispersal patterns, which may result in exposure of a host to novel parasites, or escape from parasites of their origin. We screened golden-winged warblers from across the United States and Canada for blood parasites, and investigated whether land-use patterns or host dispersal affected the prevalence and composition of haemosporidian assemblages. Parasite prevalence varied strongly with study area, and areas with high agricultural cover had a significantly higher prevalence ofLeucocytozoonandParahaemoproteusparasites. Lineages ofParahaemoproteusandLeucocytozoonwere genetically differentiated among study areas, and prevalence and composition of parasite assemblages indicated an increase in parasite prevalence and accumulation of unique parasite lineages from the southeast to the northwest. This matches the historical range expansion and natal dispersal patterns of golden-winged warblers, and suggests that golden-winged warblers may have been sensitive to novel parasites as they dispersed. The high prevalence and diversity of parasite lineages in the north-west extent of their breeding range (Manitoba) indicates that this population may face unique pressures.
Symptom structure of PTSD and co-morbid depressive symptoms – a network analysis of combat veteran patients
Authors: Lazarov Amit , Suarez-Jimenez Benjamin , Levi Ofir , Coppersmith Daniel D. L. , Lubin Gadi , Pine Daniel S. , Bar-Haim Yair , Abend Rany , Neria Yuval
Published: August 2019

Background

Despite extensive research, symptom structure of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is highly debated. The network approach to psychopathology offers a novel method for understanding and conceptualizing PTSD. However, extant studies have mainly used small samples and self-report measures among sub-clinical populations, while also overlooking co-morbid depressive symptoms.

Methods

PTSD symptom network topology was estimated in a sample of 1489 treatment-seeking veteran patients based on a clinician-rated PTSD measure. Next, clinician-rated depressive symptoms were incorporated into the network to assess their influence on PTSD network structure. The PTSD-symptom network was then contrasted with the network of 306 trauma-exposed (TE) treatment-seeking patients not meeting full criteria for PTSD to assess corresponding network differences. Finally, a directed acyclic graph (DAG) was computed to estimate potential directionality among symptoms, including depressive symptoms and daily functioning.

Results

The PTSD symptom network evidenced robust reliability. Flashbacks and getting emotionally upset by trauma reminders emerged as the most central nodes in the PTSD network, regardless of the inclusion of depressive symptoms. Distinct clustering emerged for PTSD and depressive symptoms within the comorbidity network. DAG analysis suggested a key triggering role for re-experiencing symptoms. Network topology in the PTSD sample was significantly distinct from that of the TE sample.

Conclusions

Flashbacks and psychological reactions to trauma reminders, along with their strong connections to other re-experiencing symptoms, have a pivotal role in the clinical presentation of combat-related PTSD among veterans. Depressive and posttraumatic symptoms constitute two separate diagnostic entities, but with meaningful between-disorder connections, suggesting two mutually-influential systems.
Behavioural insight and the labour market: evidence from a pilot study and a large stepped-wedge controlled trial
Authors: Sanders Michael , Briscese Guglielmo , Gallagher Rory , Gyani Alex , Hanes Samuel , Kirkman Elspeth , Service Owain
Published: August 2019

In this article, we describe two experiments measuring the impact of a collection of interventions informed by behavioural sciences to reduce unemployment. In a small-scale pilot study (n= 2,383) run in partnership with a Jobcentre in the UK, we found that small changes to the way jobseekers interacted with employment advisers showed promising effects. Based on these findings, we refined our intervention and tested it in a second, larger trial (n= 88,033) across 12 Jobcentres in the UK. We found that our intervention significantly increased off-flow from benefits. These experiments demonstrate that policies and programmes aimed at reducing unemployment can benefit greatly from a deeper understanding of the behaviours of jobseekers and employment advisers. Further, we suggest that this approach could have positive implications for other areas of public policy.
Traversing the soft/hard power binary: the case of the Sino-Japanese territorial dispute
Authors: Hagström Linus , Pan Chengxin
Published: August 2019

Soft power and hard power are conceptualised in International Relations as empirically and normatively dichotomous, and practically opposite – one intangible, attractive, and legitimate, the other tangible, coercive, and less legitimate. This article critiques this binary conceptualisation, arguing that it is discursively constructed with and for the construction of Self and Other. It further demonstrates that practices commonly labelled and understood as soft power and hard power are closely interconnected. Best understood as ‘representational force’ and ‘physical force’ respectively, soft and hard power intertwine through the operation of productive and disciplinary forms of power. We illustrate this argument by analysing the Sino-Japanese dispute over the Diaoyu/Senkaku Islands. Both governments exercise representational force in constructing their respective versions of events and Self/Other. The soft/hard power binary itself plays a performative role as the Self is typically associated with soft power and the Other with hard power. The operation of productive power, moreover, privileges the attractiveness of the former and the repellence of the latter, and disciplinary power physically enforces these distinctions on subjects in both states. Finally, reinforced Self/Other distinctions legitimise preparations for violence against the Other on both sides, thus exposing how fundamentally entangled soft and hard power are in practice.
Genetic Algorithm Coupled with the Krawczyk Method for Multi-Objective Design Parameters Optimization of the 3-UPU Manipulator
Authors: El Hraiech Safa , Chebbi Ahmed H. , Affi Zouhaier , Romdhane Lotfi
Published: August 2019

In this paper, a multi-objective design optimization of the 3-UPU translational parallel manipulator is presented. Based on a new algorithm, which combines the genetic algorithms and the Krawczyk operator, the robot position error is minimized and the robot design parameters tolerances are maximized, simultaneously. The results show that the designer can maintain the manipulator accuracy by using a specific size of the base, and can restrict its tolerance even by enlarging the actuators’ tolerance intervals. This algorithm is also used to determine the maximum design parameters tolerances for an allowable robot position error. The proposed algorithm can be extended to optimize other types of robots.
Nitrogen-fixing and non-fixing trees differ in leaf chemistry and defence but not herbivory in a lowland Costa Rican rain forest
Authors: Taylor Benton N. , Ostrowsky Laura R.
Published: August 2019

Nitrogen-fixing plants provide critical nitrogen inputs that support the high productivity of tropical forests, but our understanding of the ecology of nitrogen fixers – and especially their interactions with herbivores – remains incomplete. Herbivores may interact differently with nitrogen fixers vs. non-fixers due to differences in leaf nitrogen content and herbivore defence strategies. To examine these potential differences, our study compared leaf carbon, nitrogen, toughness, chemical defence and herbivory for four nitrogen-fixing tree species (Inga oerstediana, Inga sapindoides, Inga thibaudiana and Pentaclethra macroloba) and three non-fixing species (Anaxagorea crassipetala, Casearia arborea and Dipteryx panamensis) in a lowland tropical rain forest. Leaf chemical defence, not nutritional content, was the primary driver of herbivore damage among our species. Even though nitrogen fixers exhibited 21.1% higher leaf nitrogen content, 20.1% lower C:N ratios and 15.4% lower leaf toughness than non-fixers, we found no differences in herbivory or chemical defence between these two plant groups. Our results do not support the common hypotheses that nitrogen fixers experience preferential herbivory or that they produce more nitrogen-rich defensive compounds than non-fixers. Rather, these findings suggest strong species-specific differences in plant–herbivore relationships among both nitrogen-fixing and non-fixing tropical trees.
LINGUISTIC DIMENSIONS OF COMPREHENSIBILITY AND PERCEIVED FLUENCY: AN INVESTIGATION OF COMPLEXITY, ACCURACY, AND FLUENCY IN SECOND LANGUAGE ARGUMENTATIVE SPEECH
Authors: Suzuki Shungo , Kormos Judit
Published: August 2019

This study examined the linguistic dimensions of comprehensibility and perceived fluency in the context of L2 argumentative speech elicited from 40 Japanese-speaking learners of English. Their speaking performance was judged by 10 inexperienced native speakers of English for comprehensibility and perceived fluency, and was also objectively analyzed in terms of complexity, accuracy, and fluency as well as pronunciation and discourse features. The results showed that comprehensibility and fluency judgments strongly correlated with each other and that native listeners were significantly more severe when they judged fluency. Furthermore, multiple regression analyses revealed that both constructs were commonly associated with a set of underlying linguistic dimensions (grammatical accuracy, breakdown fluency, and pronunciation). However, comprehensibility was best predicted by articulation rate (speed fluency) whereas perceived fluency was most strongly associated with the frequency of mid-clause pauses (breakdown fluency).
Why now? Examining antecedents for substance use initiation among African American adolescents
Authors: Zapolski Tamika C. B. , Yu Tianyi , Brody Gene H. , Banks Devin E. , Barton Allen W.
Published: August 2019

Current adolescent substance use risk models have inadequately predicted use for African Americans, offering limited knowledge about differential predictability as a function of developmental period. Among a sample of 500 African American youth (ages 11–21), four risk indices (i.e., social risk, attitudinal risk, intrapersonal risk, and racial discrimination risk) were examined in the prediction of alcohol, marijuana, and cigarette initiation during early (ages 11–13), mid (ages 16–18), and late (ages 19–21) adolescence. Results showed that when developmental periods were combined, racial discrimination was the only index that predicted initiation for all three substances. However, when risk models were stratified based on developmental period, variation was found within and across substance types. Results highlight the importance of racial discrimination in understanding substance use initiation among African American youth and the need for tailored interventions based on developmental stage.
Personality, romantic relationships, and alcohol use disorder symptoms in adolescence and young adulthood: An evaluation of personality × social context interplay
Authors: Samek Diana R. , Hicks Brian M. , Iacono William G. , McGue Matt
Published: August 2019

Prior research has shown that person-level characteristics (e.g., temperament, personality) correlate and interact with social-contextual factors (e.g., parent–child relationship quality, antisocial peer affiliation) to predict adolescent substance use, but less research has examined similar processes for adult substance use problems. We addressed this gap by testing for personality × romantic partner context interplay in relation to symptoms of alcohol use disorder (AUD) at ages 24 and 29. Participants were twins in the longitudinal Minnesota Twin Family Study (N = 2,769; 52% female). Results support the corresponsive principle of personality in that we found that key personality traits in late adolescence (low constraint, negative emotionality) predicted subsequent “selection” into key social contexts in early adulthood (poorer quality romantic relationships and greater romantic partner alcohol use), which subsequently reinforced those traits and associated outcomes (including correlated AUD symptoms) through late young adulthood. There were few meaningful gender differences in these associations. There was also no support for the personality × romantic partner context interaction as a significant predictor of AUD symptoms at ages 24 or 29. Taken together with prior studies, these results suggest that such interactions may be less relevant to the development of young adult AUD compared to adolescent substance use problems.
Non-linear regulation of cardiac autonomic modulation in obese youths: interpolation of ultra-short time series
Authors: Garner David M. , Vanderlei Franciele M. , Valenti Vitor E. , Vanderlei Luiz Carlos M.
Published: August 2019

Background:

In this study, we applied ultra-short time series of interbeat intervals (RR-intervals) to evaluate heart rate variability through default chaotic global techniques with the purpose of discriminating obese youths from non-obese youth patients.

Method:

Chaotic global analysis of the RR-intervals from the electrocardiogram and pre-processing adjustments was undertaken. The effect of cubic spline interpolations was assessed, while the spectral parameters remained fixed. Exactly, 125 RR-intervals of data were recorded.

Results:

CFP1, CFP3, and CFP6 were the only significant combinations of chaotic globals when the standard conditions were enforced and at the level p<0.01 (or <1%). These significances were acheived via Kruskal–Wallis and Cohen’s ds effects sizes tests of significance after Anderson–Darling and Lilliefors statistical tests indicated non-normal distributions in the majority of cases. Adjustments of the cubic spline interpolation from 1 to 13 Hz were revealed to be inconsequential when measured by Kruskal–Wallis and Cohen’s ds, regarding the outcome between the two datasets.

Conclusion:

Chaotic global analysis was offered as a robust technique to distinguish autonomic dysfunction in obese youths. It can discriminate the two different groups using ultra-short data lengths, and no cubic spline interpolations need be applied.
Exploring the Parameter Space of Point Spread Function Determination for the Scanning Electron Microscope—Part I: Effect on the Point Spread Function
Authors: Nevins Mandy C. , Quoi Kathryn , Hailstone Richard K. , Lifshin Eric
Published: August 2019

The point spread function (PSF) of the scanning electron microscope (SEM) can be determined using a recently developed nanoparticle calibration method. Many parameters are involved in PSF determination and introduce a previously unstudied amount of uncertainty into the PSF size and shape. Signal type, support material thickness, reference particle size, PSF smoothing (K), and background correction were investigated regarding their effect on the PSF. Experimental data were complemented by CASINO simulations. Differences in detector position between the observed particles and the method's simulated reference particles caused shifting between secondary electron PSFs and backscattered electron PSFs. Support material thickness did not have a practical effect on the PSF at the tested voltages. Uncertainty in reference particle size varied the PSF full width at half maximum (FWHM) within ±0.7 nm at 2σ, with virtually no uncertainty in some cases. K and background correction within a reasonable range of values resulted in PSF FWHM differences within ±0.9 nm, except at 2 kV for K with an upper bound of ±1.9 nm due to increased noise. Tailoring K and background correction case-by-case would result in smaller differences. The interconnection of these parameters may help in future efforts to calculate their best selection.
Anatomical, Phytochemical, and Histochemical Study of Juniperus rigida Needles at Different Altitudes
Authors: Kuang Shun , Liu Linfang , Qing Mingliang , Zhang Yujia , Feng Xueping , Wang Dongmei , Jiang Yun , Zhang Xin , Li Dengwu
Published: August 2019

Needles ofJuniperus rigidaare used in Chinese traditional medicine for the treatment of brucellosis, dropsy, skin disease, and rheumatoid arthritis. This is the first study that reports anatomical structures of theJ. rigidaneedles collected at different altitudes. The most common anatomical, phytochemical, and histochemical techniques and methods are used. The results show that anatomical structures and chemical composition change significantly at different altitudes. The main anatomical characters are significant xeromorphic structures (thick epidermis, hypodermis, and cuticle), a stomatal band, a developed vascular bundle, and a marginal resin duct. The xeromorphic structures become more pronounced with increasing altitude. The phytochemical and histochemical results demonstrate that the content of the main chemical compounds (phenols and terpenoids) basically increases at a higher elevation. Histochemical analysis localizes the phenols in epidermal cells, sponge tissue, endothelial layer cells, and stomatal bands, and the terpenoids in palisade tissue, sponge tissue, and the edge of the resin duct. This work reveals the relation between anatomy and chemistry inJ. rigidaneedles, contributes to the quality control of its ethno-medicine, and provides the evidence to develop the commercial cultivation.
Jalal’s Angels of Deliverance and Destruction: Genealogies of Theo-politics, Sovereignty and Coloniality in Iran and Israel
Authors: Sadeghi-Boroujerdi Eskandar , Yadgar Yaacov
Published: August 2019

This article discusses the historical context of the famed dissident intellectual Jalal Al-e Ahmad’s (1923–69) travelogue documenting his visit to Israel in early 1963, posthumously titledSafar beh velayat-e ʿezraʾil(Journey to the Province of the Angel of Death), focusing on (1) the political and intellectual context and reception of his controversial essay, in particular the brief infatuation of Iranian anti-Soviet socialists in the League of Iranian Socialists with socialist Zionism; (2) Al-e Ahmad’s discussion of political sovereignty and theo-politics in modern Israel and the important insights and observations provided therein; and (3), finally, the shifting sands of Al-e Ahmad’s engagement with Israel and Zionism and their relation to how he understood the politics of anticolonialism in the context of modern Iran following the 1953coup d’état, which overthrew the nationalist government of Mohammad Mosaddeq, the Shah’s “White Revolution” and the Arab–Israeli War of 1967. The development of his views from ones of curiosity, fascination and ambivalence to condemnation echo less a simplistic and psychologized “return to religion” or “quest for authenticity” than an integration of the category of coloniality in relation to a wider field of struggles then unfolding across the global South during the 1960s, and provided the basis for a critique of not only Iranian social democrats, but several leading lights of the French left.
Yet more on a stochastic economic model: Supplement to Part 4: A model for share earnings, dividends and prices
Authors: Wilkie A. D. , Şahin Şule
Published: August 2019

In this paper, we revisit the Earnings, Cover (the ratio of earnings over dividends) and Price/Earnings (P/E) Ratio models which we introduced in Part 4 of this series. Although we suggested that the significant decline in the Earnings Index over 2015-2016 might be followed by dividends and share prices, this has not happened. Instead, Earnings have risen substantially over the years 2016 to 2018. Therefore, we revise our models based on the updated data and compare the new set of models with the one in Part 4 as well as with themselves. We then compare different methods for forecasting Dividends and Share Prices.
Political insurance for the (relative) poor: How liberal constitutionalism could resist plutocracy
Authors: KHAITAN TARUNABH
Published: August 2019

Fair value of equal political liberties is a key precondition for the legitimacy of a regime in liberal thought. This liberal guarantee is breached whenever a group is permanently or semi-permanently locked out of power. Given the convertibility, subtlety, and resilience of power, gross material inequality – produced by neoliberal economic policies – effectively locks the relative poor out of political power. Such lockout breaches the legitimacy constraint on a liberal constitutional democracy. Neoliberal democracies, sooner or later, become plutocracies. This possibility should concern not only liberal political theory but also liberal constitutionalism. The usual objections to a constitutional concern with gross inequality and plutocracy – based on concerns relating to transparency, counter-majoritarianism and flexibility – are useful design instructions, but do not rule out the constitutionalisation of egalitarian and anti-plutocratic norms. A whole panoply of legal and political constitutional measures – already familiar to or incrementally developed from liberal constitutional thought and practice worldwide – could be marshalled to effectively promote material equality and resist plutocracy. These measures – documented to map the possibilities rather than as a manifesto – seek either to prevent material inequality from becoming excessive or to prevent its conversion into political inequality. Good constitutional design, depending on the context, is likely to deploy several tools from both these toolboxes.
Persistent Bias Among Local Election Officials
Authors: Hughes D. Alex , Gell-Redman Micah , Crabtree Charles , Krishnaswami Natarajan , Rodenberger Diana , Monge Guillermo
Published: August 2019

Results of an audit study conducted during the 2016 election cycle demonstrate that bias toward Latinos observed during the 2012 election has persisted. In addition to replicating previous results, we show that Arab/Muslim Americans face an even greater barrier to communicating with local election officials, but we find no evidence of bias toward blacks. An innovation of our design allows us to measure whether e-mails were opened by recipients, which we argue provides a direct test of implicit discrimination. We find evidence of implicit bias toward Arab/Muslim senders only.
Die Diagnostik von Angst und Depression mit dem Mehrdimensionalen Angstinventar für Kinder und Jugendliche (MAI-KJ)
Authors: Hock Michael , Heim-Dreger Uwe , Eschenbeck Heike , Kohlmann Carl-Walter
Published: August 2019

Zusammenfassung. Das allgemeine Modul des „Mehrdimensionalen Angstinventars für Kinder und Jugendliche“ (MAI-KJ) dient der Messung von dispositioneller Angst (indiziert durch Aufgeregtheit und Besorgnis) und Depression (indiziert durch hohe Traurigkeit und niedrige Freude). Der Aufbau des Fragebogens wird vorgestellt. Überprüft werden Faktorenstruktur, psychometrische Eigenschaften und Validität des Verfahrens. Die Analysen basieren vorwiegend auf 2 Stichproben von Kindern und Jugendlichen der Klassenstufen 3 bis 10 (Stichprobe 1: N = 2 594, Stichprobe 2: N = 7 339). Die angenommene Struktur konnte mittels explorativer und konfirmatorischer Faktorenanalysen bestätigt werden. Struktur und Messeigenschaften des MAI-KJ waren weitgehend invariant gegenüber Geschlecht und Alter der Kinder. Die Reliabilitäten der Skalen fielen zufriedenstellend bis gut aus (Cronbachs α zwischen .70 und .88). Die Stabilitäten erwiesen sich als hoch (Korrelationen zwischen .61 und .76, Zeitabstand: 2 bis 4 Wochen). Zahlreiche Hinweise auf die Validität konnten durch Korrelationen mit Fragebogenverfahren zur Diagnostik von Angst und Depression gewonnen werden.
Psychologische Diagnostik im Rahmen der Behandlung von Gewalt- und Sexualstraftätern im Justizvollzug
Authors: Etzler Sonja , Rettenberger Martin
Published: August 2019

Zusammenfassung. Sozialtherapeutische Einrichtungen des Justizvollzugs dienen der Behandlung von (Sexual–) Straftätern, um deren Rückfallrisiko nachhaltig zu reduzieren. Das weltweit bekannteste Rehabilitationsmodell, nach dem intramurale Behandlung strukturiert werden sollte, um möglichst positive Behandlungseffekte zu erzielen, ist das Risk-Need-Responsivity-Modell (RNR-Modell). Psychologische Diagnostik nimmt in der Umsetzung dieser RNR-Prinzipien eine Schlüsselposition ein, um im Rahmen der Eingangs-‍, Verlaufs- und Abschlussdiagnostik den Therapieprozess anzuleiten. Ziel der vorliegenden Studie ist eine empirische Darstellung der intramuralen psychodiagnostischen Praxis anhand einer Vollerhebung aller 71 sozialtherapeutischen Einrichtungen im Jahr 2016. Von 71 Einrichtungen führen 62 eine Eingangs-‍, 50 eine Verlaufs- und 36 eine Abschlussdiagnostik durch. Dabei erfolgt die Eingangsdiagnostik in der Regel standardisiert, während Verlaufs- und Abschlussdiagnostik seltener einem standardisierten Schema folgen. Besonders häufig wurden Risikoprognoseverfahren zur Einschätzung des Rückfallrisikos eingesetzt, wobei insgesamt eine starke Anlehnung an das RNR-Modell zu konstatieren ist.
Depositional History and Indian Summer Monsoon Controls on the Silicate Weathering of Sediment Transported to the Eastern Arabian Sea: Geochemical Records From IODP Site U1456 Since 3.8 Ma
Authors: Cai Mingjiang , Xu Zhaokai , Clift Peter D. , Lim Dhongil , Khim Boo‐Keun , Yu Zhaojie , Kulhanek Denise K. , Li Tiegang , Chen Hongjin , Sun Rongtao
Published: August 2019

Systematic variation in elemental and Sr‐Nd isotopic compositions of the clay‐sized (<2 μm) siliciclastic fraction from the International Ocean Discovery Program (IODP) Site U1456 (Laxmi Basin) provides valuable insights into dynamic changes in continental weathering intensity in the western Himalayas and sediment inputs from the Indus River and Deccan Traps to the eastern Arabian Sea. Long‐term, high‐resolution proxy records from the sediment core reveal that the main sources (i.e., Indus River and Deccan Trap basalts) of the fine‐grained detrital sediments have significantly changed with Indian summer monsoon variation over the studied time interval. During two depositional periods (3.8–3.3 and 2.7–1.2 Ma) corresponding to a weak Indian summer monsoon, the Indus River contributed fine‐grained sediments with high K/Al, high 87Sr/86Sr, and low εNd to the study site. Between 3.3 and 2.7 Ma and between 1.2 and 0 Ma, deposition in the eastern Arabian Sea was governed by large inputs of Deccan Trap‐derived basaltic sediments, characterized by high Mg/Al and Fe/Al, low 87Sr/86Sr and chemical index of alteration values, and high εNd values, associated with a change to a stronger Indian summer monsoon driving stronger chemical weathering. Synchronous changes in the geochemical proxies since 3.8 Ma highlight that variations in the inputs of siliciclastic sediments and Indian summer monsoon development are closely coupled.
Observed Northward Migration of Agro‐Climate Zones in Europe Will Further Accelerate Under Climate Change
Authors: Ceglar A. , Zampieri M. , Toreti A. , Dentener F.
Published: August 2019

This study focuses on the northward shift of homogeneous agro‐climate zones in Europe analyzed for the observed past and projected climate conditions for the next decades. Statistical cluster analysis is used to derive eight main agro‐climatic zones driven by two agro‐meteorological indicators, namely, active temperature sum and thermal growing season length. The northward shift of homogeneous agro‐climate zones and the corresponding change of crop growth suitability are analyzed together with the change of exposure of crops to temperature‐related climate extremes during the growing season. Gradual warming over Europe has contributed to a lengthening of the growing season and an increased active temperature accumulation, accompanied by more frequent occurrence of warm extreme climate events. Using a set of five high‐resolution regional climate scenarios, we calculate that a major part of Europe will be affected by further northward climate zone migration. In the next decades, the migration of agro‐climatic zones in Eastern Europe may reach twice the velocity observed during the period 1975–2016. Several regions of the Mediterranean may lose suitability to grow specific crops in favor of northern European regions. This indicator‐based assessment suggests that the potential advantages of the lengthening of the thermal growing season in northern and eastern Europe are often outbalanced by the risk of late frost and increased risk of early spring and summer heat waves.