bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prediction Skill for the East Asian Winter Monsoon Based on APCC Multi-Models
Authors: Shin Sun-Hee , Moon Ja-Yeon
Published: August 2018

The prediction skill for the East Asian winter monsoon (EAWM) has been analyzed, using the observations and different climate models that participate in the APEC Climate Center (APCC) multi-model ensemble (MME) seasonal forecast. The authors first examined the characteristics of the existing EAWM indices to find a suitable index for the APCC seasonal forecast system. This examination revealed that the selected index shows reasonable prediction skill of EAWM intensity and well-represents the characteristics of wintertime temperature anomalies associated with the EAWM, especially for the extreme cold winters. Although most models capture the main characteristics of the seasonal mean circulation over East Asia reasonably well, they still suffer from difficulty in predicting the interannual variability (IAV) of the EAWM. Fortunately, the POAMA has reasonable skill in capturing the timing and strength of the EAWM IAV and reproduces the EAWM-related circulation anomalies well. The better performance of the POAMA may be attributed to the better skill in simulating the high-latitude forcing including the Siberian High (SH) and Artic Oscillation (AO) and the strong links of the ENSO to the EAWM, compared to other models.
Surface and Tropospheric Water Vapor Variability and Decadal Trends at Two Supersites of CO-PDD (Cézeaux and Puy de Dôme) in Central France
Authors: Hadad Dani , Baray Jean-Luc , Montoux Nadège , Van Baelen Joël , Fréville Patrick , Pichon Jean-Marc , Bosser Pierre , Ramonet Michel , Yver Kwok Camille , Bègue Nelson , Duflot Valentin
Published: August 2018

We present an analysis of decadal in situ and remote sensing observations of water vapor over the Cézeaux and puy de Dôme, located in central France (45° N, 3° E), in order to document the variability, cycles and trends of surface and tropospheric water vapor at different time scales and the geophysical processes responsible for the water vapor distributions. We use meteorological stations, GPS (Global Positioning System), and lidar datasets, supplemented with three remote sources of water vapor (COSMIC-radio-occultation, ERA-interim-ECMWF numerical model, and AIRS-satellite). The annual cycle of water vapor is clearly established for the two sites of different altitudes and for all types of measurement. Cezeaux and puy de Dôme present almost no diurnal cycle, suggesting that the variability of surface water vapor at this site is more influenced by a sporadic meteorological system than by regular diurnal variations. The lidar dataset shows a greater monthly variability of the vertical distribution than the COSMIC and AIRS satellite products. The Cézeaux site presents a positive trend for the GPS water vapor total column (0.42 ± 0.45 g·kg−1/decade during 2006–2017) and a significant negative trend for the surface water vapor mixing ratio (−0.16 ± 0.09 mm/decade during 2002–2017). The multi-linear regression analysis shows that continental forcings (East Atlantic Pattern and East Atlantic-West Russia Pattern) have a greater influence than oceanic forcing (North Atlantic Oscillation) on the water vapor variations.
State-of-Charge Monitoring by Impedance Spectroscopy during Long-Term Self-Discharge of Supercapacitors and Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Kurzweil Peter , Shamonin Mikhail
Published: August 2018

Frequency-dependent capacitance C(ω) is a rapid and reliable method for the determination of the state-of-charge (SoC) of electrochemical storage devices. The state-of-the-art of SoC monitoring using impedance spectroscopy is reviewed, and complemented by original 1.5-year long-term electrical impedance measurements of several commercially available supercapacitors. It is found that the kinetics of the self-discharge of supercapacitors comprises at least two characteristic time constants in the range of days and months. The curvature of the Nyquist curve at frequencies above 10 Hz (charge transfer resistance) depends on the available electric charge as well, but it is of little use for applications. Lithium-ion batteries demonstrate a linear correlation between voltage and capacitance as long as overcharge and deep discharge are avoided.
Binding Energy Referencing for XPS in Alkali Metal-Based Battery Materials Research (II): Application to Complex Composite Electrodes
Authors: Oswald Steffen , Thoss Franziska , Zier Martin , Hoffmann Martin , Jaumann Tony , Herklotz Markus , Nikolowski Kristian , Scheiba Frieder , Kohl Michael , Giebeler Lars , Mikhailova Daria , Ehrenberg Helmut
Published: August 2018

X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) is a key method for studying (electro-)chemical changes in metal-ion battery electrode materials. In a recent publication, we pointed out a conflict in binding energy (BE) scale referencing at alkali metal samples, which is manifested in systematic deviations of the BEs up to several eV due to a specific interaction between the highly reactive alkali metal in contact with non-conducting surrounding species. The consequences of this phenomenon for XPS data interpretation are discussed in the present manuscript. Investigations of phenomena at surface-electrolyte interphase regions for a wide range of materials for both lithium and sodium-based applications are explained, ranging from oxide-based cathode materials via alloys and carbon-based anodes including appropriate reference chemicals. Depending on material class and alkaline content, specific solutions are proposed for choosing the correct reference BE to accurately define the BE scale. In conclusion, the different approaches for the use of reference elements, such as aliphatic carbon, implanted noble gas or surface metals, partially lack practicability and can lead to misinterpretation for application in battery materials. Thus, this manuscript provides exemplary alternative solutions.
A User Study of a Prototype of a Spatial Augmented Reality System for Education and Interaction with Geographic Data
Authors: De A. Pereira Gabriel Henrique , Bravo João Vitor M. , Centeno Jorge A. S.
Published: August 2018

Recent technological advancements in many areas have changed the way that individuals interact with the world. Some daily tasks require visualization skills, especially when in a map-reading context. Augmented Reality systems could provide substantial improvement to geovisualization once it enhances a real scene with virtual information. However, relatively little research has worked on assessing the effective contribution of such systems during map reading. So, this research aims to provide a first look into the usability of an Augmented Reality system prototype for interaction with geoinformation. For this purpose, we have designed an activity with volunteers in order to assess the system prototype usability. We have interviewed 14 users (three experts and 11 non-experts), where experts were subjects with the following characteristics: a professor; with a PhD degree in Cartography, GIS, Geography, or Environmental Sciences/Water Resources; and with experience treating spatial information related to water resources. The activity aimed to detect where the system really helps the user to interpret a hydrographic map and how the users were helped by the Augmented Reality system prototype. We may conclude that the Augmented Reality system was helpful to the users during the map reading, as well as allowing the construction of spatial knowledge within the proposed scenario.
Influence of Chemical and Physical Variables on 87Sr/86Sr Isotope Ratios Determination for Geographical Traceability Studies in the Oenological Food Chain
Authors: Sighinolfi Simona , Durante Caterina , Lisa Lancellotti , Tassi Lorenzo , Marchetti Andrea
Published: August 2018

This study summarizes the results obtained from a systematic and long-term project aimed at the development of tools to assess the provenance of food in the oenological sector. 87Sr/86Sr isotope ratios were measured on a representative set of soils, branches, and wines sampled from the Chianti Classico wine production area. In particular, owing to the high spatial resolution of the 87Sr/86Sr ratio in the topsoil, the effect of two mill techniques for soil pretreatment was investigated to verify the influence of the particle dimension on the measured isotopic ratios. Samples with particle sizes ranging from 250 to less than 50 µm were investigated, and the extraction was performed by means of the DIN 19730 procedure. For each sample, the Sr isotope ratio was determined as well. The obtained results showed that the 87Sr/86Sr ratio is not influenced by soil particle size and may represent an effective tool as a geographic provenance indicator for the investigated product.
Model Senescent Microglia Induce Disease Related Changes in α-Synuclein Expression and Activity
Authors: Angelova Dafina M. , Brown David R.
Published: August 2018

Aging is the most prominent risk factor for most neurodegenerative diseases. However, incorporating aging-related changes into models of neurodegeneration rarely occurs. One of the significant changes that occurs in the brain as we age is the shift in phenotype of the resident microglia population to one less able to respond to deleterious changes in the brain. These microglia are termed dystrophic microglia. In order to better model neurodegenerative diseases, we have developed a method to convert microglia into a senescent phenotype in vitro. Mouse microglia grown in high iron concentrations showed many characteristics of dystrophic microglia including, increased iron storage, increased expression of proteins, such as ferritin and the potassium channel, Kv1.3, increased reactive oxygen species production and cytokine release. We have applied this new model to the study of α-synuclein, a protein that is closely associated with a number of neurodegenerative diseases. We have shown that conditioned medium from our model dystrophic microglia increases α-synuclein transcription and expression via tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) and mediated through nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB). The conditioned medium also decreases the formation of α-synuclein tetramers, associated ferrireductase activity, and increases aggregates of α-synuclein. The results suggest that we have developed an interesting new model of aged microglia and that factors, including TNFα released from dystrophic microglia could have a significant influence on the pathogenesis of α-synuclein related diseases.
Cytotoxicity of Different Concentrations of Three Root Canal Sealers on Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Alsubait Sara A. , Al Ajlan Reem , Mitwalli Hala , Aburaisi Nour , Mahmood Amer , Muthurangan Manikandan , Almadhri Randa , Alfayez Musaad , Anil Sukumaran
Published: August 2018

This study assessed the dose-dependent effect on the cytotoxicity of BioRoot RCS (BR) and Endosequence BC (BC) sealers in human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) compared to those of the AH Plus sealer. Cells were exposed to different dilutions of extracts from freshly prepared sealers (1:2, 1:8, 1:32). Unexposed cells acted as the negative control. Cytotoxicity was evaluated by an alamar blue assay. Cell morphology was analyzed by using scanning electron microscopy after exposure to the different sealers’ extracts. Statistical analysis was performed using a one-way analysis of variance and the Bonferroni post hoc test (p < 0.05). The cytotoxicities of BC and BR were less than that of AH Plus. In the presence of 1:2 BR, the cell proliferation was significantly lower than the control. At 1:8 and 1:32 concentrations, both the tricalcium silicate sealers led to similar cellular proliferation. Cells in BC and BR sealers’ extracts spread better than those in AH Plus extract.
The Role of Calcium in Inflammation-Associated Bone Resorption
Authors: Klein Gordon L.
Published: August 2018

The aim of this mini-review is to discuss the role of calcium in the process of cytokine-mediated bone resorption in an effort to understand the role circulating calcium may play in the resorption of bone. The liberation of calcium and possibly phosphorus and magnesium by bone resorption may sustain and intensify the inflammatory response. We used a burn injury setting in humans and a burn injury model in animals in order to examine the effects on the bone of the systemic inflammatory response and identified the parathyroid calcium-sensing receptor as the mediator of increasing bone resorption, hence higher interleukin (IL)-1 production, and decreasing bone resorption, hence the lowering of circulating ionized calcium concentration. Thus, extracellular calcium, by means of the parathyroid calcium-sensing receptor, is able to modulate inflammation-mediated resorption.
Patient-Derived Stem Cell Models in SPAST HSP: Disease Modelling and Drug Discovery
Authors: Wali Gautam , Sue Carolyn M. , Mackay-Sim Alan
Published: August 2018

Hereditary spastic paraplegia is an inherited, progressive paralysis of the lower limbs first described by Adolph Strümpell in 1883 with a further detailed description of the disease by Maurice Lorrain in 1888. Today, more than 100 years after the first case of HSP was described, we still do not know how mutations in HSP genes lead to degeneration of the corticospinal motor neurons. This review describes how patient-derived stem cells contribute to understanding the disease mechanism at the cellular level and use this for discovery of potential new therapeutics, focusing on SPAST mutations, the most common cause of HSP.
Interface-Active Metal Organic Frameworks for Knoevenagel Condensations in Water
Authors: Zhang Yanmei , Zhang Xiang , Bai Rixia , Hou Xiyan , Li Jun
Published: August 2018

It is desirable but challenging to locate solid catalysts at the oil-water interface to stabilize “Pickering emulsions”, which is one of the promising ways to develop efficient green chemical processes. Herein, water-stable metal organic framework ZIF-8 without any chemical modification was demonstrated to be an interface-active catalyst for Knoevenagel condensation in a biphasic system. Pickering emulsion formed under the reaction conditions due to its amphiphilic property, which was beneficial to the mass transfer and led to high catalytic performance. Moreover, it can be repeatedly applied for Knoevenagel condensation for at least six successive cycles without losing its catalytic activity and framework integrity.
Effect of Charge on the Structures of Zn(II) Coordination Polymers with Triazole-carboxylate Ligands: Syntheses, Structures, and Luminescent Properties
Authors: Miao Shaobin , Sun Xiaojuan , Wang Kexin , Xu Chunying , Li Zhaohao , Wang Zhiqiang
Published: August 2018

Three new Zn(II) coordination polymers, {[Zn(L1)2(H2O)2]·4H2O}n (1), {[Zn(L2)(H2O)2]·0.5H2O}n (2), and {[Zn1.5(L1)(o-bdc)(H2O)]·0.5H2O}n (3) (HL1 = 3,5-di(1,2,4-triazol-1-yl)benzoic acid, H2L2 = 5-(triazol-1-yl)isophthalic acid, o-H2bdc = 1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid), were successfully synthesized and characterized. Compound 1 exhibits 1D chain structure containing [Zn(L1)2] unit. Compound 2 shows a 2D plane with the ratio of Zn:L2 was 1:1 since L2 can match the positive charge of Zn(II). When L1 and o-bdc2– were presented together, Zn(II) centers are linked by L1 to form 2D double layers, then o-bdc2– further connected the adjacent layers to generate final 3D framework of 3. The ligand charges may play key roles in tuning the frameworks of compounds 1–3. The solid state luminescence of compounds 1–3 and all ligands have been investigated here.
Review of the Hygrophilous Weevils in Israel (Coleoptera: Curculionoidea)
Authors: Friedman Ariel-Leib-Leonid
Published: August 2018

Forty-one species in 20 genera of hygrophilous weevils belonging to Brentidae and Curculionidae, associated with inland aquatic habitats, have been recorded recently from Israel, eight of them for the first time. Thirty-four species are extant, while five species have probably become extinct recently, and two are fossil species, known from Late Cretaceous deposits. Sixteen species are either aquatic or semi-aquatic, while the rest occur only or predominantly on riparian vegetation. Distributional and biological data for most of the species are provided. A key to all hygrophilous weevil taxa and illustrations for most of the species are provided.
In-Hospital Surgery as a Risk Factor for Onset of AmpC-Producing Escherichia coli Blood Stream Infections
Authors: Chavada Ruchir , Tong Deborah , Maley Michael
Published: August 2018

There has been a progressive rise in the incidence of blood stream infections (BSI) caused by multidrug-resistant Gram-negative organisms (MDR GN), which cause increased morbidity and mortality. For this reason, recent studies have focused on risk factors of acquisition of carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase producers. However, there is limited data on risk factors for BSI caused by AmpC-producing Enterobacteriaceae (AmpC EC), especially in low prevalence settings such as Australia. This study was performed to identify risk factors for acquisition of AmpC E. coli, using a retrospective matched case control design over a 3-year period. Patients with BSI caused by AmpC E. coli were matched with controls (third generation cephalosporin susceptible E. coli) by age and site of infection (n = 21). There was no significant difference in age, sex, clinical outcome, time to onset of BSI, recent antibiotic use (last 3 months), comorbidities (type 2 diabetes mellitus, renal failure) intensive care unit admission, underlying hematological condition, immunosuppressant use, APACHE II score, or any recent urological procedures (within last 3 months) between the two groups. On univariate analysis, the AmpC E. coli group were more likely to have had a surgical procedure in hospital and lived in a residential aged care facility. On multivariate logistic regression analysis, a recent surgical procedure was associated with the onset of AmpC E. coli BSI (Odd’s Ratio (OR) 4.78, p = 0.034). We concluded that in a relatively low prevalence setting such as Australia, AmpC E. coli BSI is potentially associated with surgery performed in hospital due to previous antibiotic exposure and longer hospitalization.
Evaluation of Altitude Sensors for a Crop Spraying Drone
Authors: Hentschke Matheus , Pignaton de Freitas Edison , Hennig Carlos Henrique , Girardi da Veiga Igor Caike
Published: August 2018

This work aims to study and compare different range finders applied to altitude sensing on a rotating wings UAV. The specific application is the altitude maintenance for the fluid deployment valve aperture control in an unmanned pulverization aircraft used in precision agriculture. The influence of a variety of parameters are analyzed, including the tolerance for crop inconsistencies, density variations and intrinsic factors to the process, such as the pulverization fluid interference in the sensor’s readings, as well as their vulnerability to harsh conditions of the operation environment. Filtering and data extraction techniques were applied and analyzed in order to enhance the measurement reliability. As a result, a wide study was performed, enabling better decision making about choosing the most appropriate sensor for each situation under analysis. The performed data analysis was able to provide a reliable baseline to compare the sensors. With a baseline set, it was possible to counterweight the sensors errors and other factors such as the MSE for each environment to provide a summarized score of the sensors. The sensors which provided the best performance in the used metrics and tested environment were Lightware SF11-C and LeddarTech M16.
Estimating Infrastructure Financing Needs in the Asia-Pacific Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries, and Small Island Developing States
Authors: Branchoux Candice , Fang Lin , Tateno Yusuke
Published: August 2018

To assist with the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030, this paper develops a framework to estimate infrastructure financing needs of the Asia-Pacific least developed countries (LDCs), landlocked developing countries (LLDCs), and small island developing States (SIDS) by 2030. The framework takes into account the financing required to close existing infrastructure gaps, keep up with growing demands for new infrastructure, maintain existing infrastructure, and mitigate the vulnerability of infrastructure to climate-related risks. Based on a panel of 71 developing economies from 1990 to 2015 and the application of unit costs to the level of physical infrastructure stock projected to 2030, the required resources are estimated to amount to 8.1% of GDP per annum on weighted average, which exceeds current levels of infrastructure funding of 5–7% of GDP. The paper finds that a large proportion of financing needs in LDCs and SIDS arises from the current infrastructure shortages, particularly in the transport and energy sector, implying that provision of universal access to basic infrastructure services would require large outlays of resources. The results also suggest that LLDCs and some SIDS require over one-third of their spending to be allocated to maintenance and replacement of existing assets, while those in low-lying coastal areas face substantial long-run costs in improving infrastructure to mitigate climate change and protect them against loss and damages caused by extreme weather events. Meeting future infrastructure financing needs will require greater engagement of the private sector and other global and regional initiatives to ensure that sufficient resources can be raised for investment in infrastructure.
The Influence of Local Environmental, Economic and Social Variables on the Spatial Distribution of Photovoltaic Applications across China’s Urban Areas
Authors: Lin Alin , Lu Ming , Sun Pingjun
Published: August 2018

The capacity of new installed photovoltaic (PV) in China in 2017 was increased to 53.06 GW, reaching a total of 402.5 GW around the world. Photovoltaic applications have a significant role in the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and alleviating electricity shortages in the sustainable development process of cities. Research on the factors that influenced the spatial distribution of photovoltaic applications mostly focus on a certain project or a region. However, it is a complicated process for decision-making of photovoltaic installations in urban areas. This study uses zip code level data from 83 cities to investigate the influence of local environmental, economic and social variables on the spatial distribution of photovoltaic applications across China’s urban areas. By analyzing the current situation, the locations of urban photovoltaic applications are collected and presented. Statistical analysis software is used to evaluate the influence of selected variables. In this paper, correlation analysis, principle component analysis (PCA) and cluster analysis are generated to predict urban photovoltaic installations. The results of this research show that Gross Domestic Product (GDP), electricity consumption, policy incentives, the number of photovoltaic companies, population, age, education and rate of urbanization were important factors that influenced the adoption of urban photovoltaic systems. The results also indicate that Southeast China and Hangzhou Province are currently the most promising areas as they have a higher rate of solar photovoltaic installation. These conclusions have significancefor energy policy and planning strategies by predicting the future development of urban photovoltaic applications.
Deep Learning to Forecast Solar Irradiance Using a Six-Month UTSA SkyImager Dataset
Authors: Moncada Ariana , Richardson Walter , Vega-Avila Rolando
Published: August 2018

Distributed PV power generation necessitates both intra-hour and day-ahead forecasting of solar irradiance. The UTSA SkyImager is an inexpensive all-sky imaging system built using a Raspberry Pi computer with camera. Reconfigurable for different operational environments, it has been deployed at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), Joint Base San Antonio, and two locations in the Canary Islands. The original design used optical flow to extrapolate cloud positions, followed by ray-tracing to predict shadow locations on solar panels. The latter problem is mathematically ill-posed. This paper details an alternative strategy that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to forecast irradiance directly from an extracted subimage surrounding the sun. Several different AI models are compared including Deep Learning and Gradient Boosted Trees. Results and error metrics are presented for a total of 147 days of NREL data collected during the period from October 2015 to May 2016.
Agronomical and Chemical Effects of the Timing of Cluster Thinning on Pinot Noir (Clone 115) Grapes and Wines
Authors: Mawdsley Paul F. W. , Dodson Peterson Jean Catherine , Casassa L. Federico
Published: August 2018

A two-year study was performed to evaluate the effects of the timing of cluster thinning on Pinot noir grapes and wines in the central coast of California. Vines were thinned to one cluster per shoot at three selected time-points during the growing season, and fruit was harvested and made into wine. No consistent effect of cluster thinning was found in wine phenolic profile or color across a cool (2016) and a warm (2017) growing season. The growing season had a more significant effect than the cluster thinning treatment for most parameters measured. There was no detectable overall sensory difference between the non-thinned control wines and any of the thinned treatment wines. Based on current results, Pinot noir vineyards on the central coast of California can support crop loads that result in Ravaz Index values from 3 to 6 without concern for impacting ripening potential or negatively affecting fruit composition.
Context Analysis of Cloud Computing Systems Using a Pattern-Based Approach
Authors: Goeke Ludger , Mohammadi Nazila Gol , Heisel Maritta
Published: August 2018

Cloud computing services bring new capabilities for hosting and offering complex collaborative business operations. However, these advances might bring undesirable side-effects, e.g., introducing new vulnerabilities and threats caused by collaboration and data exchange over the Internet. Hence, users have become more concerned about security and privacy aspects. For secure provisioning of a cloud computing service, security and privacy issues must be addressed by using a risk assessment method. To perform a risk assessment, it is necessary to obtain all relevant information about the context of the considered cloud computing service. The context analysis of a cloud computing service and its underlying system is a difficult task because of the variety of different types of information that have to be considered. This context information includes (i) legal, regulatory and/or contractual requirements that are relevant for a cloud computing service (indirect stakeholders); (ii) relations to other involved cloud computing services; (iii) high-level cloud system components that support the involved cloud computing services; (iv) data that is processed by the cloud computing services; and (v) stakeholders that interact directly with the cloud computing services and/or the underlying cloud system components. We present a pattern for the contextual analysis of cloud computing services and demonstrate the instantiation of our proposed pattern with real-life application examples. Our pattern contains elements that represent the above-mentioned types of contextual information. The elements of our pattern conform to the General Data Protection Regulation. Besides the context analysis, our pattern supports the identification of high-level assets. Additionally, our proposed pattern supports the documentation of the scope and boundaries of a cloud computing service conforming to the requirements of the ISO 27005 standard (information security risk management). The results of our context analysis contribute to the transparency of the achieved security and privacy level of a cloud computing service. This transparency can increase the trust of users in a cloud computing service. We present results of the RestAssured project related to the context analysis regarding cloud computing services and their underlying cloud computing systems. The context analysis is the prerequisite to threat and control identification that are performed later in the risk management process. The focus of this paper is the use of a pattern at the time of design systematic context analysis and scope definition for risk management methods.
Simulations and Modeling of Intermediate Luminosity Optical Transients and Supernova Impostors
Authors: Kashi Amit
Published: August 2018

More luminous than classical novae, but less luminous than supernovae, lies the exotic stellar eruptions known as Intermediate luminosity optical transients (ILOTs). They are divided into a number of sub-groups depending on the erupting progenitor and the properties of the eruption. A large part of the ILOTs is positioned on the slanted Optical Transient Stripe (OTS) in the Energy-Time Diagram (ETD) that shows their total energy vs. duration of their eruption. We describe the different kinds of ILOTs that populate the OTS and other parts of the ETD. The high energy part of the OTS hosts the supernova impostors—giant eruptions (GE) of very massive stars. We show the results of the 3D hydrodynamical simulations of GEs that expose the mechanism behind these GEs and present new models for recent ILOTs. We discuss the connection between different kinds of ILOTs and suggest that they have a common energy source—gravitational energy released by mass transfer. We emphasize similarities between Planetary Nebulae (PNe) and ILOTs, and suggest that some PNe were formed in an ILOT event. Therefore, simulations used for GEs can be adapted for PNe, and used to learn about the influence of the ILOT events on the central star of the planetary nebula.
Geriatric Patient-Aligned Care Teams in Department of Veterans Affairs: How Are They Structured?
Authors: Sullivan Jennifer L. , Shin Marlena H. , Adjognon Omonyêlé L. , Shay Kenneth , Harvey Kimberly , Intrator Orna , Yaksic Enzo , Moye Jennifer , Solimeo Samantha
Published: August 2018

Geriatric Patient-Aligned Care Teams (GeriPACT) were implemented in the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) (i.e., Patient-Centered Medical Homes for older adults) to provide high quality coordinated care to older adults with more risk of negative health and psychosocial outcomes. The objectives of this paper are: (1) to present data on GeriPACT structural characteristics; and (2) to examine a composite measure of GeriPACT model consistency. We utilized a web survey targeting 71 physician leads resulting in a 62% response rate. We found GeriPACTs employed a range of staffing, empanelment, clinic space, and patient assignment practices. The mean value of the GeriPACT consistency measure was 2.03 (range: 1–4) and 6.3% of facilities were considered consistent to the GeriPACT model. We observed large variation in GeriPACT structure and in model consistency. More research is needed to understand how these variations are related to processes and outcomes of care.
Applications of Open-Access Remotely Sensed Data for Flood Modelling and Mapping in Developing Regions
Authors: Ekeu-wei Iguniwari Thomas , Blackburn George Alan
Published: August 2018

Flood modelling and mapping typically entail flood frequency estimation, hydrodynamic modelling and inundation mapping, which require specific datasets that are often unavailable in developing regions due to financial, logistical, technical and organizational challenges. This review discusses fluvial (river) flood modelling and mapping processes and outlines the data requirements of these techniques. This paper explores how open-access remotely sensed and other geospatial datasets can supplement ground-based data and high-resolution commercial satellite imagery in data sparse regions of developing countries. The merits, demerits and uncertainties associated with the application of these datasets, including radar altimetry, digital elevation models, optical and radar images, are discussed. Nigeria, located within the Niger river basin of West Africa is a typical data-sparse country, and it is used as a case study in this review to evaluate the significance of open-access datasets for local and transboundary flood analysis. Hence, this review highlights the vital contribution that open access remotely sensed data can make to flood modelling and mapping and to support flood management strategies in developing regions.
Assessing the Impact of a Risk-Based Intervention on Piped Water Quality in Rural Communities: The Case of Mid-Western Nepal
Authors: Tosi Robinson Dorian , Schertenleib Ariane , Kunwar Bal Mukunda , Shrestha Rubika , Bhatta Madan , Marks Sara J.
Published: August 2018

Ensuring universal access to safe drinking water is a global challenge, especially in rural areas. This research aimed to assess the effectiveness of a risk-based strategy to improve drinking water safety for five gravity-fed piped schemes in rural communities of the Mid-Western Region of Nepal. The strategy was based on establishing community-led monitoring of the microbial water quality and the sanitary status of the schemes. The interventions examined included field-robust laboratories, centralized data management, targeted infrastructure improvements, household hygiene and filter promotion, and community training. The results indicate a statistically significant improvement in the microbial water quality eight months after intervention implementation, with the share of taps and household stored water containers meeting the international guidelines increasing from 7% to 50% and from 17% to 53%, respectively. At the study endline, all taps had a concentration of <10 CFU Escherichia coli/100 mL. These water quality improvements were driven by scheme-level chlorination, improved hygiene behavior, and the universal uptake of household water treatment. Sanitary inspection tools did not predict microbial water quality and, alone, are not sufficient for decision making. Implementation of this risk-based water safety strategy in remote rural communities can support efforts towards achieving universal water safety.
Obesity Inequalities According to Place of Birth: The Role of Education
Authors: Rodriguez-Alvarez Elena , Lanborena Nerea , Borrell Luisa N.
Published: August 2018

This study examined obesity inequalities according to place of birth and educational attainment in men and in women in Spain. A cross-sectional study was conducted using data from the Spanish National Health Survey 2011–2012 and from the European Health Survey in Spain 2014. We used data for 27,720 adults aged 18–64 years of whom 2431 were immigrants. We used log-binomial regression to quantify the association of place of birth with obesity before and after adjusting for the selected characteristics in women and in men. We found a greater probability of obesity in immigrant women (PR: 1.42; 95% CI: 1.22–1.64) and a lower probability of obesity in immigrant men (PR: 0.73; 95% CI: 0.59–0.89) relative to natives after adjustment. Significant heterogeneity was observed for the association of place of birth and obesity according to education in men (p-interactions = 0.002): Men with lower educational levels (PR: 0.47; 95% CI: 0.26–0.83) have a protective effect against obesity compared with their native counterparts. This study suggests that place of birth may affect obesity in women and in men. However, this effect may be compounded with education differently for women and men.
Implementation of Motivational Interviewing Training in an Undergraduate Nursing Curriculum: Identifying Adolescents at Risk for Substance Use
Authors: Seigart Denise , Veltman Max , Willhaus Janet , Letterle Colene
Published: August 2018

Motivational interviewing (MI) has been increasingly utilized by health care practitioners for many years. MI has been practiced by social workers, nurses, physicians, psychologists, substance use counselors, and many other health care practitioners. Unfortunately, many health care practitioners do not have adequate training in motivational interviewing, and therefore feel ill equipped to utilize this approach when faced with clients who are in need of assessment and coaching. This paper discusses our experiences with a pilot project to implement MI training within an Adolescent SBIRT (Screening, Brief Intervention, Referral to Treatment) content addition to the undergraduate nursing curriculum. It includes discussion of the evaluation, which measured student attitudes towards substance users with the Substance Use Attitudinal Survey (SAAS), student satisfaction with the newly implemented curriculum, and implications for sustainable inclusion of this content and simulation experiences at the undergraduate level to promote MI use by future health care practitioners. Pre- and post-tests (SAAS) were conducted with 51 nursing students, and 56 students completed the satisfaction survey. Overall, students were very satisfied with the implementation of the curriculum, however, we did not see significant changes in SAAS test scores. This may, however, be a positive indicator of a balanced attitude toward substance users. Continuing evaluation of the curriculum change is needed.
Is Sunlight Exposure Enough to Avoid Wintertime Vitamin D Deficiency in United Kingdom Population Groups?
Authors: Kift Richard , Rhodes Lesley E. , Farrar Mark D. , Webb Ann R.
Published: August 2018

Solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) is required for cutaneous vitamin D synthesis, and experimental studies have indicated the levels of sun exposure required to avoid a vitamin D deficient status. Our objectives are to examine the sun exposure behaviours of different United Kingdom sectors and to identify if their exposure is enough to maintain winter circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D above deficiency (>25 nmol/L). Data are from a series of human studies involving >500 volunteers and performed using the same protocols in Greater Manchester, UK (53.5° N) in healthy white Caucasian adolescents and working-age adults (skin type I–IV), healthy South Asian working-age adults (skin type V), and adults with photodermatoses (skin conditions caused or aggravated by cutaneous sun exposure). Long-term monitoring of the spectral ambient UVR of the Manchester metropolitan area facilitates data interpretation. The healthy white populations are exposed to 3% ambient UVR, contrasting with ~1% in South Asians. South Asians and those with photodermatoses wear clothing exposing smaller skin surface area, and South Asians have the lowest oral vitamin D intake of all groups. Sun exposure levels prevent winter vitamin D deficiency in 95% of healthy white adults and 83% of adolescents, while 32% of the photodermatoses group and >90% of the healthy South Asians were deficient. The latter require increased oral vitamin D, whilst their sun exposure provides a tangible contribution and might convey other health benefits.
Aberrant Driving Behaviour, Risk Involvement, and Their Related Factors Among Taxi Drivers
Authors: Vahedi Javadreza , Shariat Mohaymany Afshin , Tabibi Zahra , Mehdizadeh Milad
Published: August 2018

The current study aims to investigate the aberrant driving behaviour and risk involvement of Iranian taxi drivers. The sample comprised 405 Iranian taxi drivers, who were recruited with a cross-sectional design, using a self-completion questionnaire survey during October and November 2016. We contribute to the literature by understanding how and to what extent the socioeconomic, demographic, driving, and aberrant driving behaviours influence risk involvement (accident involvement and traffic tickets). The validated 27-item Driver Behaviour Questionnaire (DBQ) was applied to measure aberrant driving behaviour. The results from valid observations (n = 381) explored a four-factor solution (including errors, ordinary violations, lapses, and aggressive violations) of the DBQ. The results also showed that being a single driver, having a high annual driving mileage, and a high number of daily taxi trips were positively associated with accident involvement. Furthermore, there was a positive correlation between the more ordinary violations and aggressive violations and accident involvement. Establishing better training and qualification mechanisms for taxi drivers could be considered by traffic safety experts in order to reduce ordinary and aggressive violations.
Do Challenge Stress and Hindrance Stress Affect Quality of Health Care? Empirical Evidence from China
Authors: Ma Tengyang , Yang Tianan , Guo Yilun , Wang Yifei , Deng Jianwei
Published: August 2018

Severe job stress has adverse effects on the health of Chinese healthcare workers. We investigated associations between job stress, health, and quality of health care among Chinese healthcare workers. To analyze associations between stress, health, and quality of health care among healthcare workers in 74 Chinese hospitals, we surveyed 2426 healthcare workers of primary, secondary, and tertiary hospitals in Western, Central, and Eastern China in 2017. Structural equation modelling was used to examine relationships between job stress, health, and quality of health care. The mediating effect of health on the association between job stress and quality of health care was examined with the Sobel test. In the final model, health had a moderate direct positive effect on the quality of health care (β = 0.24; p < 0.001). Challenge stress had a direct inverse effect on health (β = −0.05; p < 0.05) and a significant direct positive effect on the quality of health care (β = 0.26; p < 0.001). Hindrance stress had a significant inverse effect on health (β = −0.37; p < 0.001) and a moderate inverse effect on the quality of health care (β = −0.19; p < 0.001). The correlation between challenge stress and hindrance stress was significant and positive (β = 0.59; p < 0.001). A partial mediation effect was in the final model. The health status of healthcare workers is an important concern at all levels of Chinese hospitals. To improve quality of healthcare, appropriate challenge stress is recommended among young staff, and interventions targeting hindrance stress should be developed and implemented in all hospital departments.
Developmental Exposure to Atrazine Impairs Spatial Memory and Downregulates the Hippocampal D1 Dopamine Receptor and cAMP-Dependent Signaling Pathway in Rats
Authors: Li Jianan , Li Xueting , Bi Haoran , Ma Kun , Li Baixiang
Published: August 2018

Atrazine (ATR) is a widely used herbicide that has been implicated as a neurotoxicant. Recent experimental evidence has implicated that ATR exposure also appears to have adverse effects on the hippocampus, which is a critical region for learning and memory. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of ATR toxicity on the hippocampus of developing rats. Postnatal day (PND) 28 male Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats received ATR by oral gavage at 10 or 100 mg/kg bodyweight (BW) for 30 consecutive days and were sacrificed at PND 90. Behavioral test results indicated that spatial learning and memory were affected by ATR treatment. Electron microscopy analysis showed that the ultrastructures of the hippocampus were altered in the ATR-treated groups, as compared to the control group. Additionally, ATR treatment impacted dopamine and D1 dopamine receptor (D1DR) contents through different mechanisms. Reduced mRNA and protein expression levels of factors involved in the cAMP-dependent signaling pathway were also detected. These results indicate that the developmental exposure of rats to ATR can damage the hippocampus and spatial memory, which might be related to the downregulation of expression levels of the D1DR and its downstream signaling pathway.
The Perturbance of Microbiome and Gut-Brain Axis in Autism Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Fowlie Greta , Cohen Nicholas , Ming Xue
Published: August 2018

Gastrointestinal problems have been documented in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Studies have found that these disturbances may be associated with an altered gut microbiome in ASD. Furthermore, in ASD, these alterations are implicated in increased gut permeability, or “leaky gut”, which allows bacterial metabolites to cross the gut barrier, impacting neurodevelopment during early childhood in susceptible subjects by way of gut-brain axis. In our review, we will discuss the interaction of gut microbiota and brain development in ASD and the signaling mechanisms underlying this interaction. We will also explore the potential for treatment of ASD by targeting the microbiome with probiotics. Finally, this paper will attempt to provide significance to the aggregation of the research in this area of research; providing our interpretations and assessments of future of this field.
From Neonatal Hearing Screening to Intervention: Results of the Dutch Program for Neonatal Hearing Screening in Well Babies
Authors: Uilenburg Noëlle , Van der Ploeg Catharina , Van der Zee Rosanne , Meuwese-Jongejeugd Anneke , Van Zanten Bert
Published: August 2018

In the Netherlands, Youth Health Care services (YHC) have been carrying out neonatal hearing screening (NHS) in newborns since 2006. The aim of the NHS is to identify children with permanent hearing loss, so that intervention can be started before the age of 4 months. Early detection of hearing loss is important, as children who start intervention early have been shown to develop better. This article describes the structure and performance of the NHS carried out by the YHC, the quality of the program, and the timeliness of the start of intervention. Since its implementation, the NHS has been audited annually in order to monitor the program’s quality. Monitoring reports and data from the Dutch Foundation for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Child were used in this study. For many years, results have shown the NHS to be a stable screening program of high quality. The participation rate is high, refer percentage low, and the timeliness of the program is continually improving. Although the timeliness of post screening diagnostics and intervention need most improvement as they do not always meet the target times, this has improved over recent years.
Getting Ready for the Next Step: Merging Information Ethics and Roboethics—A Project in the Context of Marketing Ethics
Authors: Lumbreras Sara
Published: August 2018

This article presents some pressing issues on roboethics, which lie at the frontier between roboethics and information ethics. It relates them to the well-established field of marketing ethics, stressing two main points. First, that human attention and willpower is limited and susceptible to be exploited. Second, that the possibility of using consumer profiles considerably increases the possibility of manipulation. It presents the interactions with robots as a particularly intense setting, in which the humanlike presence and the possibility of tailoring communications to the profile of the human target can be especially problematic. The paper concludes with some guidelines that could be useful in limiting the potentially harmful effects of human–robot interactions in the context of information ethics. These guidelines focus on the need for transparency and the establishment of limits, especially for products and services and vulnerable collectives, as well as supporting a healthy attention and willpower.