bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
True phase quantitative susceptibility mapping using continuous single‐point imaging: a feasibility study
Authors: Jang Hyungseok , Lu Xing , Carl Michael , Searleman Adam C. , Jerban Saeed , Ma Yajun , von Drygalski Annette , Chang Eric Y. , Du Jiang
Published: October 2018

Purpose

In this study, we explore the feasibility of a new imaging scheme for quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM): continuous single‐point imaging (CSPI), which uses a pure phase encoding strategy to achieve true phase imaging and improve QSM accuracy.

Methods

The proposed CSPI is a modification of conventional SPI to allow acquisition of multiple echoes in a single scan. Immediately following a phase encoding gradient, the free induction decay is continuously sampled with extremely high temporal resolution to obtain k‐space data at a fixed spatial frequency (i.e., at a fixed k‐space coordinate). By having near‐0 readout duration, CSPI results in a true snapshot of the transverse magnetization at each TE. Additionally, parallel imaging with autocalibration is utilized to reduce scan time, and an optional temporal averaging strategy is presented to improve signal‐to‐noise ratio for objects with low proton density or short T2* decay. The reconstructed CSPI images were input to a QSM framework based on morphology enabled dipole inversion.

Result

In an experiment performed using iron phantoms, susceptibility estimated using CSPI showed high linearity (R2 = 0.9948) with iron concentration. Additionally, reconstructed CSPI phase images showed much reduced ringing artifact compared with phase images obtained using a frequency encoding strategy. In an ex vivo experiment performed using human tibia samples, estimated susceptibilities ranged from –1.6 to –2.1 ppm, in agreement with values reported in the literature (ranging from –1.2 to –2.2 ppm).

Conclusion

We have demonstrated the feasibility of using CSPI to obtain true phase images for QSM.
Imaging shallow gas migration pathways in a mud‐volcano province using an autonomous underwater vehicle (Malta Plateau, Mediterranean Sea)
Authors: Savini A. , Pinson S. , Bistacchi A. , Etiope G. , Holland C.W.
Published: October 2018

Data acquired by an autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) towing a source (1600–3500 Hz) and a horizontal array of hydrophones have been analysed to image discrete, isolated or even a small cluster of scatterers within the sediment, to determine shallow migration paths of hydrocarbons in a mud volcano system of the Malta Plateau. An algorithm based on a semblance function was applied to the acoustic data to highlight scatterers rather than interface reflections. The resulting scatterer map, obtained along the AUV track, generated a pseudo‐three‐dimensional coverage of the study area, with a horizontal and vertical resolution of roughly 3–5 m and 5–10 m, respectively. This map was combined with high‐resolution bathymetric and backscattering seafloor maps obtained from previous explorations. This integrated dataset provides new evidence for the role of fault zones as a preferential path for gas/fluid migration and reveals the intermittent activity of seeping gas. The data show, in particular, that gas bubble slugs, i.e. discontinuous gas columns, rise through Plio‐Quaternary sediments along a complex system of conduits terminating at the surface into quiescent mud volcanoes. The gas flux is facilitated by the regional stress field that results in dilatant conditions on the mapped fault zones.
Microstructural and optical properties of polyvinyl alcohol/manganese chloride composite film
Authors: Banerjee M. , Jain Amit , Mukherjee G.S.
Published: October 2018

Films of pure polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and its manganese chloride filled polymer composite film (MPVA) were prepared and their optical properties were evaluated. XRD, UV–vis, and FTIR analyses reveal that there is strong interaction between polyvinyl alcohol and manganese chloride. Interchain separation (R) for pristine PVA and MPVA composite films was found as 5.60 and 4.69 Ǻ, respectively, thus showing polymer chains are more compact in MPVA. Optical band gap of polyvinyl alcohol was reduced on incorporation of manganese chloride in polyvinyl alcohol to cause approximately 2.5‐fold increase in optical conductivity. Refractive index of MPVA was found to be higher than that of PVA in the visible range up to 710 nm but beyond that it became lower than that of PVA. Abbe Number was decreased on incorporation of manganese chloride to PVA with concomitant increase in dispersion energy. Urbach energy (Eu) for PVA and MPVA was found to be 0.70 and 0.82 eV, respectively. AFM study reveals formation ofsunflowerlike assembled texture at nano‐scale level in MPVA film and it exhibits a higher root mean square (RMS) roughness and absorbance than those of pristine PVA film. Average oscillation wavelength (λ0) was found to be close to the respective absorption edge; and MPVA showed higher oscillation strength (S0) than that of PVA. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:E765–E775, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Prediction and optimization design for thermal expansion coefficients of three‐dimensional n‐directional‐braided composites
Authors: Guo Fangliang , Yan Ying , Hong Yang , Tian Ziyang , Li Jie
Published: October 2018

A new model based on thermomechanics analysis is established to predict the coefficients of thermal expansion (CTEs) of 3D n‐directional (n = 4, 5, full‐5, 6, or 7)‐braided composites in this article. In this model, relationships between stresses and strains generated in fiber and polymer matrix are portrayed by a bridging matrix to obtain elastic constants of yarns. Based on equivalent fiber cross‐sections and space projections of yarns, effective overall CTEs of 3D n‐directional‐braided composites are obtained. We introduce parameterization into the finite element modeling to complete our verification. The theoretical predictions are consistent with the finite element method and existing experiments. This article gives detailed insights into the effect of braiding parameters on CTEs to explore indication of addition yarns for thermal expansion performance. As an application of the proposed model, we utilize an improved genetic algorithm with objective weight mechanism and dynamic mutation to obtain the multi‐objective optimization design for zero expansion 3D‐braided composites. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers POLYM. COMPOS., 40:2495–2509, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
OPAL+: Length‐Specific MoRF Prediction in Intrinsically Disordered Protein Sequences
Authors: Sharma Ronesh , Sharma Alok , Raicar Gaurav , Tsunoda Tatsuhiko , Patil Ashwini
Published: October 2018

Intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) contain long unstructured regions, which play an important role in their function. These intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs) participate in binding events through regions called molecular recognition features (MoRFs). Computational prediction of MoRFs helps identify the potentially functional regions in IDRs. In this study, OPAL+, a novel MoRF predictor, is presented. OPAL+ uses separate models to predict MoRFs of varying lengths along with incorporating the hidden Markov model (HMM) profiles and physicochemical properties of MoRFs and their flanking regions. Together, these features help OPAL+ achieve a marginal performance improvement of 0.4–0.7% over its predecessor for diverse MoRF test sets. This performance improvement comes at the expense of increased run time as a result of the requirement of HMM profiles. OPAL+ is available for download at https://github.com/roneshsharma/OPAL-plus/wiki/OPAL-plus-Download.
Vineyard evaluation of stilbenoid‐rich grape cane extracts against downy mildew: a large‐scale study
Authors: Billet Kévin , Delanoue Guillaume , Arnault Ingrid , Besseau Sébastien , Oudin Audrey , Courdavault Vincent , Marchand Patrice A , Giglioli‐Guivarc'h Nathalie , Guérin Laurence , Lanoue Arnaud
Published: October 2018

BACKGROUND

Plasmopara viticola control in organic viticulture requires copper‐based fungicides with harmful effects on health and the environment. Plant extracts represent a biorational eco‐friendly alternative to copper. The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential of stilbenoid‐rich grape cane extract (GCE) against downy mildew on three cultivars over 3 years following natural downy mildew infection.

RESULTS

Over all field trials, GCE treatments showed an average reduction in disease incidence of −35% and −38% on leaves and clusters, respectively. The average reduction in disease severity was −35% and −43% on leaves and clusters, respectively. Under artificial downy mildew infection, GCE efficacy corresponded to 1 g L−1 of copper. Neither phytotoxicity nor adverse effects on auxiliary fauna were observed after treatment with GCE.

CONCLUSION

Because few or no biocontrol agents are active alone against P. viticola, GCE is a promising alternative to copper‐based fungicides. Grape canes, an abundant by‐product of viticulture, have great potential for valorization as a biocontrol agent for sustainable viticulture. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Invisible apple snail invasions: importance of continued vigilance and rigorous taxonomic assessments
Authors: Yang Qianqian , Liu Suwen , He Chao , Cowie Robert H , Yu Xiaoping , Hayes Kenneth A
Published: October 2018

BACKGROUND

Due to the similarities of overall shell morphology among apple snail species and considerable variability within species, substantial taxonomic confusion has plagued the accurate identification of Pomacea species. Many invasive apple snails have been mistakenly identified as P. canaliculata since their introduction to Asia around 1980. In 2008, three other introduced species in addition to P. canaliculata were recognized. In 2013, a fifth, previously unrecognized lineage was reported from China, indicating that despite the taxonomic clarity brought by previous work, continued surveys and taxonomic research are necessary to prevent additional introductions and continued spread, as well as to develop effective management strategies.

RESULTS

Phylogenetic analysis of mitochondrial COI sequences confirmed the presence of a widespread unidentified Pomacea lineage in China. All sequences from samples of this newly documented lineage were recovered in a monophyletic clade delineated from closely related species; however, different DNA barcoding methods yielded inconsistent species boundaries. Additionally, nuclear EF1α sequences indicated incomplete lineage sorting or recent hybridization of the unidentified lineage with the other two established species.

CONCLUSION

Barcoding is a valuable tool for species discovery, and a powerful approach for delineating introduced species. However, determining the identity of the newly discovered invasive lineage in China will require an integrated taxonomic approach incorporating individuals from the native range, and examination of natural history collections at museums around the world. To manage and prevent additional spread of already established species, and to stop the introduction of new taxa, continued monitoring and rigorous taxonomic assessments must be undertaken. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Does ecosystem services valuation reflect local cultural valuations? Comparative analysis of resident perspectives in four major urban river ecosystems
Authors: du Bray Margaret V. , Stotts Rhian , Beresford Melissa , Wutich Amber , Brewis Alexandra
Published: October 2018

Anthropologists have long considered how people create and perceive the value of goods and services. While valuation of nature as a commodity is one means of conservation, locally resonant values of nature may not follow market logic. We apply the ecosystem services valuation (ESV) framework to four major urban river ecosystems (Australia, New Zealand, United States, and United Kingdom) to compare and contrast value (the alienable goods that are readily commodified and monetized) and values (the inalienable goods and rights that defy easy comparability and recognition). In interviews, respondents (N = 283) living near the rivers described the local river‐associated ecosystem services (ES) they experienced. Thematic content analysis of coded interview data showed that respondents in all four sites recognize ES in their local areas related to rivers, and these resonate with the value‐oriented ESV frameworks. While the ESV framework offers a way for scholars and policymakers to easily compare the monetary value of ES, our results indicate that rivers have locally ascribed value that defies easy commodification. In particular, our work highlights the local importance of priceless, inalienable values perceived to be conferred across ES and not just restricted to cultural services.
Ligand‐Centered Radical Activity by a Zinc‐Schiff‐Base Complex towards Catechol Oxidation
Authors: Das Subrata , Sahu Amrita , Joshi Mayank , Paul Suvendu , Shit Madhusudan , Roy Choudhury Angshuman , Biswas Bhaskar
Published: October 2018

In this work, we present the synthesis and structural characterization of a new Zn(II)‐Schiff base complex, [Zn(L)(H2O)] (1), [L=N,N′‐bis(3‐methoxysalicylidene)‐1,3‐diamino‐2‐propanol]. Single crystal X‐ray structural analysis reveals that 1 crystallizes in monoclinic system with P21/c space group. The compound shows good photo‐luminescence property in methanol medium. This Zn(II) complex has been evaluated as a catalytic system in the catalytic oxidation of 3,5‐di‐tert‐butylcatechol (DTBC) in methanol. The Zn(II) complex displays good catecholase like activity with significant turn over, kcat(h–1)=7.99×102 in methanol under aerobic condition. Very interestingly, we are able to isolate the oxidation product as 3,5‐di‐tert‐butylquinone (2) in association with the substrate in the form of a single crystal. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), electron spray ionization (ESI) mass and 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectral analyses of the reaction mixture between Zn(II) complex and DTBC recommend that the course of catalysis proceeds through substrate‐catalyst adduct formation & confirm the presence of radical pathways in favour of oxidation products. The computation studies have been executed with density functional theory and all experimental observations are well rationalised with extensive theoretical calculations. Being a redox inactive metal ion, catalytic oxidation of DTBC by Zn(II) complexes will always be a remarkable example in the scientific community.
Birnessite: A New‐Generation and Cost Effective Ion Exchange Material for Separation of Clinical‐Grade 90Y from 90Sr/90Y Mixture
Authors: Chakravarty Rubel , Bevara Samatha , Bahadur Jitendra , Chakraborty Sudipta , Dev Sarma Haladhar , Achary S. Nagabhusan , Dash Ashutosh , Tyagi Avesh Kumar
Published: October 2018

The widespread clinical utilization of 90Y for preparation of target specific radiopharmaceuticals stipulates design of superior advanced materials for facile and cost effective separation of 90Y. We demonstrate for the first time potential of birnessite type phylomanganates for radiochemical separation of clinical grade 90Y from 90Sr/90Y mixture. Sodium birnessite was synthesized by controlled oxidation of MnCl2.4H2O in presence of excess of NaOH and characterized thoroughly for structure, microstructure and purity. Ion exchange experiments in the presence of 90Sr/90Y equilibrium mixture confirmed the exceptionally high selectivity of synthetic sodium birnessite for exchanging Sr2+ ions and the conditions have been optimized to achieve radiochemically pure 90Y (> 80% separation yield) meeting all the pharmaceutical requirements for its clinical use. Radionuclidic purity of 90Y could be achieved to < 1 × 10−4 % of 90Sr which is well below the limit set internationally (2 × 10−3 %). The separated 90Y has been used to prepare 90Y radiolabeled 1,4,7,10‐tetraazacyclododecane‐1,4,7,10‐tetraacetic acid coupled dimeric cyclic RGD peptide derivative [DOTA−E[c(RGDfK)]2] and the biological efficacy of the radiotracer was established in C57/BL6 mice bearing melanoma tumors. The results indicated highly target specific radiotherapy suggesting the potential of sodium birnessite for cost effective radiochemical separation of 90Y.
Exploration of Antifungal Potential of Carbohydrate‐Tethered Triazoles as CYP450 Inhibitors
Authors: Nainwal Lalit M. , Azad Chandra S. , Deswal Deepa , Narula Anudeep K.
Published: October 2018

In search of potent and novel antifungal agents, herein, the authors report the synthesis, chemical characterization and biological evaluation of triazole tethered glycoconjugates. The structural verification of the molecules was carried out by 13C NMR, 1H NMR and mass spectra analysis. The in vitro antifungal activity was investigated against three filamentous fungi, Trichoderma viride 4329, Aspergillus fumigatus 3007 and Sporothrix schenckii. Among the synthesized compounds, it was observed that compound 10f completely inhibited the fungal growth giving a Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) value of 800 μg/ml against Aspergillus fumigatus 3007. Moreover through microscopic analysis, using Scanning Electron Microscopy and confocal imaging, it was detected that the compound had induced pronounced irreversible membrane damage and disruption of fungal mycelium.
The anti‐inflammatory Design, Synthesis and Exploiting Pharmacological Activities of 2,3‐Dihydrofuranocoumarins as Multi‐Therapeutic Agents
Authors: Madar Jyoti M. , Shastri Lokesh A. , Shastri Samundeeswari L. , Holiyachi Megharaja , Naik Nirmala S. , Shaikh Farzanabi , Kumbar Vijay M. , Bhat Kishor G. , Joshi Shrinivas D. , Sungar Vinay A.
Published: October 2018

Our recent research interest regarding synthesis of bioactive furanocoumarin derivatives, we have developed pyridinium yield assisted synthesis of 2,3‐dihydrofuran coumarin derivatives via, multicomponent one step reaction with excellent yield. All compounds 4(a–p) and 6(a–b) were screened for their in vitro antimicrobial, Anti‐inflammatory and cytotoxicity activity. The activity results demonstrated that, synthesized compounds are selective against both Gram positive bacterial strains B.subtilis, S.aureus and inactive against Gram negative bacterial strains E.coli, P.aeruginosa. Similarly, compounds are highly potent against both fungal strains C.albicans and C.tropicalis over standard drugs Fuconazole. The anti‐inflammatory activity was examined using egg albumin protein denaturation and Human red blood cell membrane stabilization methods; in both methods anti‐inflammatory results are highly promising. Compounds 4 a, 4 b, 4 d and 4 o exhibited potential cytotoxic activity against lung cancer cell lines with IC50 value ranging from 0.29 to 0.35 μM. Identifying the active antimicrobial and anti‐inflammatory agent is as essential factor for the successful development of lead molecules in drug designing. Molecular docking study was performed for all the compounds and docking result reveals that compounds are possessing drug like property.
One‐Pot Synthesis and Photophysical Studies of Dihydropyrimidinone‐Based Dyes: Novel Violet‐Blue Light Emitting Fluorophores
Authors: Matta Akanksha , Gupta Mohit , Kumar Yogesh , Taniike Toshiaki , Van der Eycken Johan , Singh Brajendra K.
Published: October 2018

A one‐pot, four‐component methodology have been developed for the synthesis of coumarin‐linked triazolyl‐dihydropyrimidinones (DHPM). The Biginelli reaction was combined with the click reaction for the first time in a sequential multicomponent tandem reaction approach. A series of ten such compounds have been synthesised and examined for their fluorescent properties. These were found to emit violet‐blue light in the visible region of the spectrum with very high Stoke's shift values. The compounds have demonstrated high quantum yields which makes them attractive targets for their utilization as new fluorescent probes. The electronic structure of these coumarin‐based donor–π–acceptor (D–π–A)‐type organic dyes have been studied by Density Functional Theory (DFT). Thermal analysis of few of the compounds show that they are stable up to temperature range of 0–290 °C. The synthesised compounds have been characterised by NMR and mass spectrometry.
Synthesis and Study of Palladium(II) and Platinum(II) Complexes Supported by a Common “Wingtip” N‐Heterocyclic Carbene
Authors: Dinda Joydev , Jhulki Lalmohan , Kisan Hemanta K. , Mahapatra Pradip K. , Isab Anvarhusein A. , Bielawski Christopher W.
Published: October 2018

Two annulated imidazolium salts, 2‐(phenyl)imidazo[1,5‐a]pyridin‐4‐ylium hexafluorophosphate 1⋅H(PF6) and 1‐methyl‐2‐(phenyl)imidazo[1,5‐a]pyridin‐4‐ylium hexafluorophosphate 2⋅H(PF6), were synthesized via formylative cyclization of the corresponding Schiff bases followed by anion metathesis with KPF6. Independently treating 1⋅H(PF6) or 2⋅H(PF6) with silver oxide and then palladium chloride in acetonitrile led to the formation of the complexes [Pd(1)2Cl(CH3CN)]PF6 (1 a) and [Pd(2)2Cl(CH3CN)]PF6 (2 a), respectively. Likewise, [Pt(1)2Cl(CH3CN)]PF6 (1 b) and [Pt(2)2Cl(CH3CN)]PF6 (2 b) were synthesized using similar transmetallation chemistry. The complexes were characterized using various spectroscopic techniques and the solid state structures of 1‐H(PF6) as well as 2 a were elucidated using X‐ray diffraction analyses. A series of DFT calculations were also performed to gain further insight into the respective structures of the complexes. Complexes 1 a and 2 a were found to facilitate Suzuki coupling reactions under relatively mild conditions.
Selective Synthesis of Mono‐ and Disubstituted Quinoxalines via Heteroaromatic Nucleophilic Substitution of 2,3‐Dichloro‐6,7‐dinitroquinoxaline (DCDNQX) with Anilines and Phenols
Authors: de O. Lima Filho Edson , da S. Ribeiro Stephany L. , Araújo Renata M. , Menezes Fabrício G. , Cavalcanti Lívia N.
Published: October 2018

The chemistry of quinoxalines has attracted great attention due to the potential applications of this class of nitrogen‐based heterocycle in many areas. In this paper, heteroaromatic nucleophilic substitution of the quinoxaline substrate 2,3‐dichloro‐6,7‐dinitroquinoxaline (DCDNQX) with anilines and phenols is reported. Reactions using this reagent were proven to proceed under mild and metal‐free conditions for selectively obtaining mono and disubstituted products in good to excellent yields.
Nitroalkane‐Mediated Multicomponent Synthesis of β‐Enaminones
Authors: Manjappa Kiran B. , Yang Ya‐An , Mysore Santosh S. , Yang Ding‐Yah
Published: October 2018

A multicomponent synthesis of β‐enaminones is explored using nitroalkane as a reagent and a solvent. The one‐pot reaction of 1,3‐diketone, aldehyde, and amine using nitromethane as the solvent resulted β‐enaminones exclusively. When the same reaction was performed in nitroethane, however, lactone ring‐opening of coumarin moiety was observed, leading to the formation of hydroxy‐β‐enaminones. The possible mechanisms for these reactions are deduced and the substrate scope of the reaction is investigated.
Regioselective Chlorination of Quinoline Derivatives via Fluorine Mediation in a Microfluidic Reactor
Authors: Qi Hao , Li Xin , Liu Zhuang , Miao Shan‐Shan , Fang Zheng , Chen Lin , Fang Zheng , Guo Kai
Published: October 2018

A novel green and efficient reaction route for the synthesis of 2‐chloroquinoline via N‐fluoride fluorinated by 1‐Chloromethyl‐4‐fluoro‐1,4‐diazoniabicyclo [2.2.2] octane bis(tetrafluoroborate) (Selectfluor) with 1,3‐Dichloro‐5,5‐dimethylhydantoin (DCDMH) in Vapourtec reactor has been developed. In addition, a series of C2 heterocyclic derivative products are obtained in moderate to good yields under no metal conditions.
Scalable 3D Nanoparticle Trap for Electron Microscopy Analysis
Authors: Sun Xingwu , Berenschot Erwin J. W. , Veltkamp Henk‐Willem , Gardeniers Han J. G. E. , Tas Niels R.
Published: October 2018

Arrays of nanoscale pyramidal cages embedded in a silicon nitride membrane are fabricated with an order of magnitude miniaturization in the size of the cages compared to previous work. This becomes possible by combining the previously published wafer‐scale corner lithography process with displacement Talbot lithography, including an additional resist etching step that allows the creation of masking dots with a size down to 50 nm, using a conventional 365 nm UV source. The resulting pyramidal cages have different entrance and exit openings, which allows trapping of nanoparticles within a predefined size range. The cages are arranged in a well‐defined array, which guarantees traceability of individual particles during post‐trapping analysis. Gold nanoparticles with a size of 25, 150, and 200 nm are used to demonstrate the trapping capability of the fabricated devices. The traceability of individual particles is demonstrated by transferring the transmission electron microscopy (TEM) transparent devices between scanning electron microscopy and TEM instruments and relocating a desired collection of particles.
Studies on the Adsorption and Thermodynamics of Theophylline, Vitamin C and Bovine Serum Albumin on Microporous Corn Starch
Authors: Li Yuhua , Zhang Yeli , Zhao Juan , Han Ning , Bian Liujiao
Published: October 2018

As a good controlled‐release and sustained‐release adsorption material, microporous starch is likely to become a potential drug carrier with broad market prospects. In this work, the adsorption of three model drugs, theophylline, vitamin C, and bovine serum albumin (BSA), is studied and compared by measuring their adsorption onto raw corn starch, microporous corn starch alone, and microporous corn starch in the presence of 0.015% (g L−1) xanthan gum along with the corresponding thermodynamic data. The results shows that microporous corn starch in the presence of 0.015% xanthan gum is a good drug carrier and that the static saturation adsorption capacities of theophylline, vitamin C, and BSA were 183.1 × 10−3, 292.5 × 10−3, and 0.322 × 10−3 (mol g−1), respectively. These values are approximately two and four times those on microporous corn starch alone and raw corn starch, respectively. All the adsorption data of the three drugs onto corn starch mixtures can be well described by the Langmuir adsorption equation. Additionally, although the adsorption processes of theophylline, vitamin C and BSA are all spontaneous and exothermic, the first two processes are mainly driven by an enthalpy change, while the latter process is mainly driven by an entropy change. The in vitro release of drugs from microporous corn starch is initially rapid, and then, the release mechanism slowed. This work provides useful information regarding the use of microporous corn starch as a novel controlled‐release and sustained‐release drug carrier.
It's time to consider the benefits of Credential Engine
Authors: Taylor Alexander , Parrish Jesse , Parks Rodney
Published: October 2018

To increase the transparency and utility of the higher education ecosystem, registrars should support the adoption of a universal credential registry. By connecting information about credentials and their value, Credential Engine's registry creates for students an ever‐expanding atlas of educational possibilities.
Serve your students better by moving to centralized scheduling
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: October 2018

NASHVILLE — Is scheduling classes and classrooms an easy‐to‐manage function on your campus? If not, moving to a centralized scheduling model could restore order to your campus, while ensuring students can access the courses they need to complete their degree.
Conformal boundary conditions, loop gravity and the continuum
Authors: Wieland Wolfgang
Published: October 2018

Abstract

In this paper, we will make an attempt to clarify the relation between three-dimensional euclidean loop quantum gravity with vanishing cosmological constant and quantum field theory in the continuum. We will argue, in particular, that in three spacetime dimensions the discrete spectra for the geometric boundary observables that we find in loop quantum gravity can be understood from the quantisation of a conformal boundary field theory in the continuum without ever introducing spin networks or triangulations of space. At a technical level, the starting point is the Hamiltonian formalism for general relativity in regions with boundaries at finite distance. At these finite boundaries, we choose specific conformal boundary conditions (the boundary is a minimal surface) that are derived from a boundary field theory for an SU(2) boundary spinor, which is minimally coupled to the spin connection in the bulk. The resulting boundary equations of motion define a conformal field theory with vanishing central charge. We will quantise this boundary field theory and show that the length of a one-dimensional cross section of the boundary has a discrete spectrum. In addition, we will introduce a new class of coherent states, study the quasi-local observables that generate the quasi-local Virasoro algebra and discuss some strategies to evaluate the partition function of the theory.
KINSHIP AND COMMUNITY IN THE NORTHERN SOUTHWEST: CHACO AND BEYOND
Authors: Ware John
Published: October 2018

Archaeogenomic studies of a burial crypt in Pueblo Bonito, Chaco Canyon, New Mexico, have demonstrated the presence of an elite matrilineal descent group that spanned most of the 300+ years the great house was occupied, confirming, among other things, the deep antiquity of matrilineal ideologies among the Ancestral Pueblos of the northern Southwest. This article explores the sociopolitical implications of matrilineal descent, matrilocal residence, and Iroquois-Crow alliance structures among the Ancestral Pueblos of Chaco and elsewhere. It argues that matrilineal ideologies helped shape community forms and intercommunity relations throughout the Pueblo Southwest. It argues further that kinship provides insights into Chaco's eleventh-century expansion that dispersed “outlier” great houses over much of the southeastern Colorado Plateau. The article concludes with a call for archaeologists and cultural historians to pay more attention to kinship, the principal idiom of social, economic, and political relations in nonstate societies.
God's propositional omniscience: a defence of the strictly restricted account
Authors: ZAREPOUR MOHAMMAD SALEH
Published: October 2018

By discussing three different understandings of the notion of God's propositional omniscience from a theistic point of view, I show that the strictly restricted account (SPO) – according to which God knows all true propositions that He can know – is preferable to the two other candidates as the standard interpretation of God's propositional omniscience. To establish this conclusion, I argue that Pruss's argument that strictly restricted omniscience (SPO) entails full omniscience (FPO) fails because it relies on a flawed construal of the former thesis. I propose an alternative construal for strictly restricted omniscience and defend it against some potential objections.
Truth, consequences, and the Evil-god challenge: a response to Anastasia Scrutton
Authors: LANCASTER-THOMAS ASHA
Published: October 2018

In her 2016 article in Religious Studies, Anastasia Scrutton attempts to undermine Stephen Law's Evil-god challenge by arguing that belief in a good god is more justified than belief in an evil god, despite the alethic similarity of the two hypotheses. Drawing on the epistemological theory of pragmatic encroachment, Scrutton claims that is it more reasonable to believe in a benevolent deity than a malevolent one because belief in the latter (i) is detrimental to one's well-being and (ii) has worse moral consequences, whereas belief in the former (i) is good for one's well-being and (ii) has better moral consequences. In this article, I critically respond to Scrutton's argument by proposing that even if belief in a good god results in better consequences than belief in an evil god does, pragmatic encroachment does not undermine the Evil-god challenge. I further argue that pragmatic encroachment potentially undermines itself in this instance.
Would Aristotle Have Seen the Wrongness of Slavery If He Had Undergone a Course of Moral Enhancement?
Authors: Pleasants Nigel
Published: October 2018

I agree with those proponents of bio-medical moral enhancement who claim that we face large-scale global moral problems which are currently un-recognised or un-acted upon. But I argue that the proposed bio-medical means for tackling them is misconceived. I show that both bio-medical and “traditional” conceptions of moral enhancement share a misleading picture of the relation between the moral psychology of individuals and the socially structured moral problems with which they are faced. The argument unfolds in three stages. First I reflect on prominent historical cases of large-scale progressive moral change to assess the role of the agents’ moral psychology in bringing that about and sustaining it. Second, I identify some current cases of people recognising one or more of (what I call) the “new moral problems” that we face but not acting in accordance with that recognition. Third, I adumbrate an alternative stance to the idea of both traditional and bio-medical moral enhancement.
Moral Enhancement and the Human Condition
Authors: Skidelsky Edward
Published: October 2018

I argue that the project of moral enhancement is incipiently contradictory. All our judgements of human excellence and deficiency rest on what I call the human “form of life”, meaning that a radical transformation of this form of life, such as is envisioned by advocates of moral enhancement, would undermine the basis of those judgements. It follows that the project of moral enhancement is self-defeating: its fulfilment would spell the abolition of the very conditions that allow us to describe it as an “enhancement”.
Moral Enhancement and Climate Change: Might it Work?
Authors: Kulawska Aleksandra , Hauskeller Michael
Published: October 2018

Climate change is one of the most urgent global problems that we face today. The causes are well understood and many solutions have been proposed; however, so far none have been successful. Ingmar Persson and Julian Savulescu have argued that this is because our moral psychology is ill-equipped to deal with global problems such as this. They propose that in order to successfully mitigate climate change we should morally enhance ourselves. In this chapter we look at their proposal to see whether moral enhancement is indeed a viable solution to the climate crisis, and conclude that due to various theoretical and practical problems it most likely is not.
A novel technique for iatrogenic pseudoaneurysm obliteration with ultrasound-guided thrombin foam injection
Authors: Lewandowski Paweł , Baran Jakub , Maciejewski Paweł , Budaj Andrzej
Published: October 2018

Abstract. Background: Iatrogenic pseudoaneurysms (IPA) are treated with ultrasound-guided thrombin injections (UGTI). We describe a novel technique for IPA repair that applies UGTI with thrombin foam (UGTFI). Methods and results: Successful obliteration of 6 IPAs (IPA without a neck, n = 5; with a neck, n = 1) in 6 patients (2 males, aged 68 ± 1 years, 4 females, aged 59 ± 11 years) was performed by using UGTFI. The dose of administered thrombin was 25–75 IU. No microembolization phenomenon and no serious clinical complications were observed. Conclusions: Treatment of IPA with UGTFI may reduce the embolization rate, risk of IPA cavity thrombin leakage, required drug dose. Use of the thrombin foam could be the next step in the development of the UGTI, particularly in the treatment of IPA without a neck.

Keywords: Iatrogenic pseudoaneurysms, thrombin, ultrasound-guided thrombin injection, UGTI
Nicht-medikamentöse Maßnahmen bei Ein- und Durchschlafproblemen von älteren Patienten im Krankenhaus – Qualitative Interviews mit Pflegenden
Authors: Kauffmann Lea , Heinemann Stephanie , Himmel Wolfgang , Hußmann Olaf , Schlott Thilo , Weiß Vivien
Published: October 2018

Zusammenfassung. Hintergrund: Ältere Patienten leiden im Krankenhaus häufig unter Ein- und Durchschlafproblemen. Nicht selten erhalten diese Patienten trotz der bekannten Risiken ein Schlaf- oder Beruhigungsmittel, obwohl auch nicht-medikamentöse Maßnahmen zur Verfügung stehen. Ziel: Die Studie untersucht Erfahrungen und Wahrnehmungen von Pflegenden im Umgang mit nicht-medikamentösen Maßnahmen bei Schlafproblemen älterer Patienten im Krankenhaus. Methode: Es wurden semistrukturierte Interviews mit 13 examinierten Gesundheits- und Krankenpflegern / -pflegerinnen aus einem Krankenhaus geführt und inhaltsanalytisch ausgewertet. Ergebnisse: Folgende nicht-medikamentöse Maßnahmen werden bei Schlafproblemen älterer Patienten eingesetzt: (1) strukturelle Maßnahmen (Regulierung von Temperatur und Licht), (2) organisatorische Maßnahmen (Zeit für abendliche Rundgänge), (3) pflegerische Maßnahmen (pflegerische Schlafanamnesen, beruhigende Ganzkörperpflegen) und (4) übliche Hausmittel. Die Anwendung dieser Maßnahmen erhöht die Patientenzufriedenheit und entspannt Abläufe im Nachtdienst. Barrieren ergeben sich durch knappe zeitliche und personelle Ressourcen, fehlende Standards, diskrepante Vorstellungen im Pflegeteam und dezidierte Patientenwünsche nach Medikamenten. Schlussfolgerung: Pflegende kennen eine Vielzahl nicht-medikamentöser Maßnahmen zur Förderung eines gesunden Schlafes. Das Fehlen eines Konsenses und mangelnde Ressourcen behindern den Einsatz dieser Maßnahmen. Wünschenswert wäre ein Klima, das den Einsatz von Medikamenten bei Schlafproblemen als letzte Möglichkeit vorsieht.
Lozier to Be AGU President-Elect/AGU Leadership Transitions
Authors: Leinen Margaret
Published: October 2018

As new AGU leaders assume their governance roles in 2019, about half of the organization's current officers will continue to serve and provide leadership continuity.
2018 AGU Election Statistics
Authors: Leinen Margaret , Duce Robert , Gonzalez Luis , Lechner Hans , McCammon Catherine , Pizzuto Jim , Stanley Sabine , Tsoflias George , Turekian Vaughan , Zhu Tong , McEntee Chris , Enderlein Cheryl
Published: October 2018

AGU's Leadership Development/Governance Committee recaps the timing, participation, and other details of the organization's recently completed 2018 leadership election.
Spatial Distribution of Fine‐Structured and Unstructured EMIC Waves Observed by the Arase Satellite
Authors: Matsuda S. , Kasahara Y. , Miyoshi Y. , Nomura R. , Shoji M. , Matsuoka A. , Kasaba Y. , Kurita S. , Teramoto M. , Ishisaka K.
Published: October 2018

We surveyed 378 electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) wave events using Arase during the first 12 months. We discriminated the observed EMIC waves into two types (fine‐structured EMIC waves and unstructured EMIC waves), according to whether or not they exhibited clear periodic amplitude modulations. We found a clear afternoon peak in the occurrence probability of unstructured EMIC waves in the region of L = 5–9. Fine‐structured EMIC waves were mainly distributed in the off‐equatorial region, and their occurrence probability was clearly high around the noon sector. Such noon sector EMIC wave peaks had not been found in the THEMIS, AMPTE, or Cluster measurements, due to their limited L shell coverages. The Van Allen probes, too, were not able to measure the major region of fine‐structured EMIC waves because of their limited latitudinal coverage. Our unique statistical results demonstrate the importance of discriminating the wave structures as well as of performing observations over a wide range of latitudes.
Rapid Oligocene to Early Miocene Extension Along the Grant Range Detachment System, Nevada, USA: Insights From Multipart Cooling Histories of Footwall Rocks
Authors: Long Sean P. , Heizler Matthew T. , Thomson Stuart N. , Reiners Peter W. , Fryxell Joan E.
Published: October 2018

In Nevada and Utah, the Cordilleran orogen underwent a protracted Cenozoic transition to an extensional setting. However, the geodynamic processes that controlled this transition are poorly understood, in part because the space‐time patterns of extension are not known in many areas. Localities of pre‐Neogene extension have the potential to elucidate the dynamics of the Cordilleran crust during the final stages of subduction. Here we present data that constrain the timing of extension in the Grant Range in eastern Nevada, which was deformed by a low‐angle normal fault system. We present temperature‐time histories of eight granite samples exhumed by this fault system, constrained by muscovite 40Ar/39Ar multi‐diffusion domain modeling and fission track and (U‐Th)/He ages from zircon and apatite. These data demonstrate rapid cooling (20–35 °C/Myr) from 350–425 to 25–50 °C between 28–31 and 15–19 Ma. The fault system accommodated ~24 km of extension (~115%), and exhumed the granite samples from 7–9 km depths to the near‐surface. Rapid Oligocene‐early Miocene cooling is interpreted to date the duration of motion on the fault system, and defines an extension rate of 1.5–2.6 km/Myr. This was one of the most significant fault systems active during an episode of spatially distributed late Eocene‐Oligocene extension, which overlaps temporally with volcanism generated by slab rollback. Reduced interplate coupling that accompanied slab rollback is interpreted as the primary driver of extension of the Cordilleran plateau during the final stages of subduction. This supports a scenario of orogenic collapse that proceeded in distinct episodes that were initiated by external geodynamic events.
Ultrafast cryptography with indefinitely switchable optical nanoantennas
Authors: Ma Pujuan , Gao Lei , Ginzburg Pavel , Noskov Roman E.
Published: October 2018

Bistability is widely exploited to demonstrate all-optical signal processing and light-based computing. The standard paradigm of switching between two steady states corresponding to “0” and “1” bits is based on the rule that a transition occurs when the signal pulse intensity overcomes the bistability threshold, and otherwise, the system remains in the initial state. Here, we break with this concept by revealing the phenomenon of indefinite switching in which the eventual steady state of a resonant bistable system is transformed into a nontrivial function of signal pulse parameters for moderately intense signal pulses. The essential nonlinearity of the indefinite switching allows realization of well-protected cryptographic algorithms with a single bistable element in contrast to software-assisted cryptographic protocols that require thousands of logic gates. As a proof of concept, we demonstrate stream deciphering of the word “enigma” by means of an indefinitely switchable optical nanoantenna. An extremely high bitrate ranging from ~0.1 to 1 terabits per second and a small size make such systems promising as basic elements for all-optical cryptographic architectures.
Atmospheric sulfur is recycled to the crystalline continental crust during supercontinent formation
Authors: LaFlamme Crystal , Fiorentini Marco L. , Lindsay Mark D. , Bui Thi Hao
Published: October 2018

The sulfur cycle across the lithosphere and the role of this volatile element in the metasomatism of the mantle at ancient cratonic boundaries are poorly constrained. We address these knowledge gaps by tracking the journey of sulfur in the assembly of a Proterozoic supercontinent using mass independent isotope fractionation (MIF-S) as an indelible tracer. MIF-S is a signature that was imparted to supracrustal sulfur reservoirs before the ~2.4 Ga Great Oxidation Event. The spatial representation of multiple sulfur isotope data indicates that successive Proterozoic granitoid suites preserve Δ33S up to +0.8‰ in areas adjacent to Archean cratons. These results indicate that suturing of cratons began with devolatilisation of slab-derived sediments deep in the lithosphere. This process transferred atmospheric sulfur to a mantle source reservoir, which was tapped intermittently for over 300 million years of magmatism. Our work tracks pathways and storage of sulfur in the lithosphere at craton margins.
Group decision-making is optimal in adolescence
Authors: Haller Simone P. W. , Bang Dan , Bahrami Bahador , Lau Jennifer Y. F.
Published: October 2018

Group decision-making is required in early life in educational settings and central to a well-functioning society. However, there is little research on group decision-making in adolescence, despite the significant neuro-cognitive changes during this period. Researchers have studied adolescent decision-making in ‘static’ social contexts, such as risk-taking in the presence of peers, and largely deemed adolescent decision-making ‘sub-optimal’. It is not clear whether these findings generalise to more dynamic social contexts, such as the discussions required to reach a group decision. Here we test the optimality of group decision-making at different stages of adolescence. Pairs of male pre-to-early adolescents (8 to 13 years of age) and mid-to-late adolescents (14 to 17 years of age) together performed a low-level, perceptual decision-making task. Whenever their individual decisions differed, they were required to negotiate a joint decision. While there were developmental differences in individual performance, the joint performance of both adolescent groups was at adult levels (data obtained from a previous study). Both adolescent groups achieved a level of joint performance expected under optimal integration of their individual information into a joint decision. Young adolescents’ joint, but not individual, performance deteriorated over time. The results are consistent with recent findings attesting to the competencies, rather than the shortcomings, of adolescent social behaviour.
Identification of a two-SNP PLA2R1 Haplotype and HLA-DRB1 Alleles as Primary Risk Associations in Idiopathic Membranous Nephropathy
Authors: Latt Khun Zaw , Honda Kenjiro , Thiri Myo , Hitomi Yuki , Omae Yosuke , Sawai Hiromi , Kawai Yosuke , Teraguchi Shunsuke , Ueno Kazuko , Nagasaki Masao , Mabuchi Akihiko , Kaga Hajime , Komatsuda Atsushi , Tokunaga Katsushi , Noiri Eisei
Published: October 2018

The associations of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in PLA2R1 and HLA-DQA1, as well as HLA-DRB1*15:01-DQB1*06:02 haplotype with idiopathic membranous nephropathy (IMN) is well known. However, the primary associations of these loci still need to be determined. We used Japanese-specific SNP genotyping array and imputation using 2,048 sequenced Japanese samples to fine-map PLA2R1 region in 98 patients and 413 controls. The most significant SNPs were replicated in a separate sample set of 130 patients and 288 controls. A two-SNP haplotype of intronic and missense SNPs showed the strongest association. The intronic SNP is strongly associated with PLA2R1 expression in the Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) database, and the missense SNP is predicted to alter peptide binding with HLA-DRB1*15:01 by the Immune Epitope Database (IEDB). In HLA region, we performed relative predispositional effect (RPE) tests and identified additional risk alleles in both HLA-DRB1 and HLA-DQB1. We collapsed the risk alleles in each of HLA-DRB1 and HLA-DQB1 into single risk alleles. Reciprocal conditioning of these collapsed risk alleles showed more residual significance for HLA-DRB1 collapsed risk than HLA-DQB1 collapsed risk. These results indicate that changes in the expression levels of structurally different PLA2R protein confer risk for IMN in the presence of risk HLA-DRB1 alleles.