bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of changes in vegetation and land cover types between Shenzhen and Bangkok
Authors: Song Yi , Aryal Jagannath , Tan Liangcheng , Jin Long , Gao Zhihua , Wang Yunqiang
Published: October 2020

As important node cities in the Belt and Road region, Shenzhen and Bangkok are faced with similar environmental threats posed by the high‐speed social development process. Rapid urbanization leads to changes in vegetation growth and land cover types and then affects ecosystem services. In the current study, we used a time‐series normalized difference vegetation index dataset from 2000 to 2019 and two land cover type datasets from 2000 to 2018 to investigate and compare the spatiotemporal characteristics of the changes in vegetation and land cover types of the two cities. We found that the trend of vegetation change was mainly affected by the change in land cover types, while the interannual fluctuation of vegetation change was likely related to the extreme climate events caused by El Niño‐Southern Oscillation events. However, different urbanization strategies led to opposite vegetation change trends in Bangkok and Shenzhen after 2005. With urbanization, the vegetation coverage (Pv) of Shenzhen increased from 48% in 2000 to 62% in 2018. The total urban green spaces (except croplands) of Shenzhen have remained above 33% of the total area since 2006. However, the total urban green space in Bangkok accounted for only 8% of the total area in 2018, which was even lower than the area percentage of Shenzhen's forests in the same year. Rapid urbanization without adequate urban green spaces caused a decreasing trend of Pv in Bangkok. Green development under the Belt and Road Initiative requires serious considerations of environmental quality and urban livability during the rapid urbanization.
Triblock Copolymer/Polyoxometalate Nanocomposite Electrolytes with Inverse Hexagonal Cylindrical Nanostructures
Authors: Zhai Liang , Chai Shengchao , Wang Gang , Zhang Wei , He Haibo , Li Haolong
Published: October 2020

The primary issue of polymer electrolytes is to achieve high ion conductivity while retaining mechanical properties. A nanocomposite electrolyte with the inverse hexagonal cylindrical phase (three‐dimensionally continuous domains for ion conduction and embedded domains for mechanical support) is prepared through the electrostatic self‐assembly of a polyoxometalate (H3PW12O40, PW) and a triblock copolymer poly(N‐vinyl pyrrolidone)‐block‐polystyrene‐block‐poly(N‐vinyl pyrrolidone) (PSP). The cylindrical nanocomposite exhibits a conductivity of 1.32 mS cm−1 and a storage modulus of 4.6 × 107 Pa at room temperature. These two values are higher than those of pristine PSP by two orders of magnitudes and a factor of six, respectively. PW clusters are used as multifunctional nano‐additives (morphological inducer, proton conductor, and nano‐enhancer) and their incorporation achieves the simultaneous improvement in both conductive and mechanical performance.
Comprehensive Analysis of Familial Parkinsonism Genes in Rapid‐Eye‐Movement Sleep Behavior Disorder
Authors: Mufti Kheireddin , Rudakou Uladzislau , Yu Eric , Krohn Lynne , Ruskey Jennifer A. , Asayesh Farnaz , Laurent Sandra B. , Spiegelman Dan , Arnulf Isabelle , Hu Michele T.M. , Montplaisir Jacques Y. , Gagnon Jean‐François , Desautels Alex , Dauvilliers Yves , Gigli Gian Luigi , Valente Mariarosaria , Janes Francesco , Högl Birgit , Stefani Ambra , Holzknecht Evi , Šonka Karel , Kemlink David , Oertel Wolfgang , Janzen Annette , Plazzi Giuseppe , Antelmi Elena , Figorilli Michela , Puligheddu Monica , Mollenhauer Brit , Trenkwalder Claudia , Sixel‐Döring Friederike , Cochen De Cock Valérie , Monaca Christelle Charley , Heidbreder Anna , Ferini‐Strambi Luigi , Dijkstra Femke , Viaene Mineke , Abril Beatriz , Boeve Bradley F. , Postuma Ronald B. , Rouleau Guy A. , Gan‐Or Ziv
Published: October 2020

Background

There is only partial overlap in the genetic background of isolated rapid‐eye‐movement sleep behavior disorder (iRBD) and Parkinson's disease (PD).

Objective

To examine the role of autosomal dominant and recessive PD or atypical parkinsonism genes in the risk of iRBD.

Methods

Ten genes, comprising the recessive genes PRKN, DJ‐1 (PARK7), PINK1, VPS13C, ATP13A2, FBXO7, and PLA2G6 and the dominant genes LRRK2, GCH1, and VPS35, were fully sequenced in 1039 iRBD patients and 1852 controls of European ancestry, followed by association tests.

Results

We found no association between rare heterozygous variants in the tested genes and risk of iRBD. Several homozygous and compound heterozygous carriers were identified, yet there was no overrepresentation in iRBD patients versus controls.

Conclusion

Our results do not support a major role for variants in these genes in the risk of iRBD. © 2020 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
A new concept for improved quantitative analysis of reversible transverse relaxation in tissues with variable microscopic field distribution
Authors: Steidle Günter , Schick Fritz
Published: October 2020

Purpose

The intravoxel distribution of the magnetic field strongly influences signal dephasing after RF excitation and the resulting signal decay in gradient echo–based MRI. In this work, several different field distribution models were applied and tested for analysis of microscopic field characteristics within pixels.

Theory

A flexible model for improved pixel‐wise characterization of the underlying field distribution is introduced. The proposed symmetric alpha‐stable (SαS) distribution covers Lorentzian, Gaussian, and intermediate field distributions in a continuous way using a two‐parametric (width and shape) function.

Methods

The new model was applied on human brain, potatoes (homogeneous isotropic tissue), and stems of pineapple (anisotropic fibrous tissue). Effects of microscopic structure and background gradients on the shape and the widths of the microscopic field distribution were analyzed using gradient echo sampling of the spin echo and multigradient‐echo sequences. Effects of non‐Lorentzian shapes of microscopic field distributions on the results of common measurements with mono‐exponential fitting of signal values were tested.

Results

Many pixels of the examined objects showed field characteristics in between Lorentzian and Gaussian shapes. Microscopic field inhomogeneities caused by microscopic susceptibility effects and background gradients sometimes led to rather Gaussian than Lorentzian field distribution. In cases with nearly Gaussian field distribution, mono‐exponential fitting of the signal decay resulted in different values, depending on the sampling points.

Conclusions

Using the concept of more flexible distributions for characterization of microscopic susceptibility effects in tissue provides better fitting of data and nearly sampling point–independent results than common measurements with mono‐exponential fitting.
Fatigue in chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy
Authors: Peric Stojan Z. , Cornblath David R.
Published: October 2020

See article on pages 673–680 in this issue.
Prevalence of smooth muscle dysfunction among children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Authors: Manokaran Ranjith K. , Aggarwala Sandeep , Kumar Rakesh , Gupta Arun K. , Chakrabarty Biswaroop , Jauhari Prashant , Pandey Ravindra M. , Gulati Sheffali
Published: October 2020

Smooth muscle dysfunction in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) has been rarely studied. A cross‐sectional study was conducted to estimate the prevalence of smooth muscle dysfunction (vascular, upper gastrointestinal, and bladder smooth muscle) in children with DMD using questionnaires (Pediatric Bleeding Questionnaire, Pediatric Gastroesophageal Symptom Questionnaire, and Dysfunctional Voiding Symptom Score). Investigations included bleeding time estimation, nuclear scintigraphy for gastroesophageal reflux, and uroflowmetry for urodynamic abnormalities. Ninety‐nine subjects were included in the study. The prevalence of vascular, upper gastrointestinal, and bladder smooth muscle dysfunction was 27.2%. Mean bleeding time was prolonged by 117.5 seconds. The prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux was 21%. Voided volume/estimated bladder capacity over 15% and abnormal flow curves on uroflowmetry were seen in 18.2% and 9.7% of the subjects, respectively. Our study highlights the need for addressing issues related to smooth muscle dysfunction in the routine clinical care of patients with DMD.
Alterungsprozesse verlangsamen
Authors: Brendel Karin , Duchowny Anton , Ehring Michael , Blümich Bernhard , Adams Alina , Plum Wilfried
Published: October 2020

Heizöl und Dieselkraftstoff mit höheren Fettsäuremethylesteranteilen aus regenerativen Quellen verhalten sich im Betrieb und bei der Lagerung anders als bisher üblich. Betriebsstörungen von Motoren und Ölheizungen lassen sich durch Additive in den Brennstoffmischungen vermeiden.
Großspeicherwahl
Authors: Grün Thorsten , Mast Michael , Schwarz Bernhard
Published: October 2020

Lithiumionen‐ und Redoxflusssysteme sind für Tests zum Speichern großer Energiemengen am Karlsruher Institut für Technologie aufgebaut. Die Techniken zeigen je nach Anwendung Vor‐ und Nachteile.
Mit Metabolic Profiling gegen Betrug
Authors: Hackl Thomas , Bachmann René , Schmitt Caroline , Watermann Stephanie
Published: October 2020

Wenn Betrüger Haselnüsse mit Erdnüssen verfälschen und so einen höheren Preis erzielen, ist das ein lukratives Geschäft. Ob Lebensmittel authentisch sind, lässt sich anhand ihrer Metaboliten überprüfen, denn diese zeigen ein charakteristisches NMR‐Spektrum.
Trendbericht Analytische Chemie II: Trenntechniken und Elektroanalytik
Authors: Vogel Martin , Engewald Werner , Dettmer‐Wilde Katja , Schmitz Oliver J. , Sperling Michael , Huber Christian G , Regl Christof , Berger Thomas , Piendl Sebastian , Belder Detlev , Matysik Frank‐Michael
Published: October 2020

Dieser zweite Teil des Trendberichts Analytische Chemie (erster Teil siehe Nachr. Chem. 2020, 68(4), 52) zeigt Entwicklungen in der Chromatographie, bei Detektions‐ und Kopplungstechniken sowie bei On‐chip‐Trennungen. Miniaturisierung spielt auch in der Elektroanalytik eine Rolle. Zudem werden elektrochemische Analysentechniken für Anwendungen maßgeschneidert und profitieren dabei von Erkenntnissen aus den Materialwissenwissenschaften.
So entsteht eine Proteinfabrik
Authors: Groß Michael
Published: October 2020

Das Ribosom ist die Fabrik für Proteine und die komplizierteste molekulare Struktur der lebenden Zelle. Seit einem halben Jahrhundert wissen wir, dass Bakterienribosomen sich im Reagenzglas aus ihren mehr als 50 Bestandteilen selbst zusammensetzen. Wie neuere Untersuchungen zeigen, entstehen die noch komplexeren Ribosomen der Eukaryonten jedoch mit Hilfsproteinen.
Monitoring mit Abwasser
Authors: Leusmann Eliza
Published: October 2020

Wie sich die Zahl Coronainfizierter entwickeln wird, wollen Forscher an Abwasserproben ablesen.
Compressed sensing with signal averaging for improved sensitivity and motion artifact reduction in fluorine‐19 MRI
Authors: Darçot Emeline , Yerly Jérôme , Hilbert Tom , Colotti Roberto , Najdenovska Elena , Kober Tobias , Stuber Matthias , van Heeswijk Ruud B.
Published: October 2020

Fluorine‐19 (19F) MRI of injected perfluorocarbon emulsions (PFCs) allows for the non‐invasive quantification of inflammation and cell tracking, but suffers from a low signal‐to‐noise ratio and extended scan time. To address this limitation, we tested the hypotheses that a 19F MRI pulse sequence that combines a specific undersampling regime with signal averaging has both increased sensitivity and robustness against motion artifacts compared with a non‐averaged fully sampled pulse sequence, when both datasets are reconstructed with compressed sensing. As a proof of principle, numerical simulations and phantom experiments were performed on selected variable ranges to characterize the point spread function of undersampling patterns, as well as the vulnerability to noise of undersampling and reconstruction parameters with paired numbers of x signal averages and acceleration factor x (NAx‐AFx). The numerical simulations demonstrated that a probability density function that uses 25% of the samples to fully sample the k‐space central area allowed for an optimal balance between limited blurring and artifact incoherence. At all investigated noise levels, the Dice similarity coefficient (DSC) strongly depended on the regularization parameters and acceleration factor. In phantoms, the motion robustness of an NA8‐AF8 undersampling pattern versus NA1‐AF1 was evaluated with simulated and real motion patterns. Differences were assessed with the DSC, which was consistently higher for the NA8‐AF8 compared with the NA1‐AF1 strategy, for both simulated and real cyclic motion patterns (P < 0.001). Both strategies were validated in vivo in mice (n = 2) injected with perfluoropolyether. Here, the images displayed a sharper delineation of the liver with the NA8‐AF8 strategy than with the NA1‐AF1 strategy. In conclusion, we validated the hypotheses that in 19F MRI the combination of undersampling and averaging improves both the sensitivity and the robustness against motion artifacts.
A full‐range gradient survey for 2D electrical resistivity tomography
Authors: Zhou Bing , Bouzidi Youcef , Ullah Saif , Asim Muhammad
Published: October 2020

In this paper, we propose an enhanced version of the multi‐gradient measurement technique, called full‐range gradient survey, for 2D electrical resistivity tomography. To demonstrate its effectiveness, we conducted numerical simulations and field experiments to highlight the advantages of the new data‐acquisition technique on the traditional electrode arrays and the original multi‐gradient measurement technique. A comparison of the imaging capabilities of the full‐range gradient technique with the dipole–dipole, Schlumberger and multi‐gradient shows that the former inherits all the advantages of the multi‐gradient technique as well as the sensitivity of the traditional three‐ and four‐electrode arrays. The new survey technique has a better pseudo‐section coverage, a much smaller geometrical factor, and less noise contamination than the dipole–dipole survey. It significantly improves the subsurface images of the Schlumberger and original multi‐gradient data. The numerical and field experiments both demonstrate that the full‐range gradient survey can be an alternative to all the traditional electrode arrays and original multi‐gradient surveys of 2D electrical resistivity tomography to obtain better quality and higher resolution images of near‐surface targets.
A new exploration on existence of Sobolev‐type Hilfer fractional neutral integro‐differential equations with infinite delay
Authors: Vijayakumar V. , Udhayakumar R.
Published: October 2020

This article is primarily focusing on the existence of Sobolev‐type Hilfer fractional neutral integro‐differential systems via measure of noncompactness. We study our primary outcomes by employing fractional calculus, measure of noncompactness and fixed point technique. First, we discuss the existence of mild solution for the fractional evolution system. Then, we extend our results to discuss the system with nonlocal conditions. Finally, we provide theoretical and practical applications to illustrate the obtained theory.
Employee engagement practices during COVID‐19 lockdown
Authors: Chanana Nisha , Sangeeta
Published: October 2020

In the present business situation during the COVID‐19 pandemic, employee engagement has become one of the utmost prominent primacies for human resource managers and practitioners in organizations due to lockdown. The paper is to determine the engagement of employees by various companies during coronavirus pandemic. Organizations nowadays are constantly developing innovative and effective means to engage the employees during this tough time. This paper is a conceptual paper that is based on various research papers, articles, blogs, online newspapers, and reports of World Health Organization. During this pandemic situation, organizations are evolving many engagement activities like online family engagement practices, virtual learning and development, online team building activities, webinars with industry experts, online conduct weekly alignment sessions, team meet‐ups over video conference for lunch, short online game sessions, virtual challenges and competitions, online courses, appreciation sessions, communication exercises, live sessions for new‐skill training, online counseling sessions, recognition and acknowledgment session, webinars dealing with anxiety and stress, providing online guidance for exercise and meditation, social interactions in a virtual office, classrooms training modules digitally, e‐learning modules, and many more creative learning sessions. Work‐from‐home regime engagement activities are very fruitful for employees as well as for organizations. Those organizations doing these kinds of engagement activities for their employees are learning new skills and developing themselves. Employees are feeling committed to the organization and stay motivated during this tough time of COVID‐19 pandemic.
The influences of different size SiO2 nanoparticles on dielectric properties and corona resistance of epoxy composites
Authors: Zhao Wei , Chen Hao , Fan Yong , Cui Weiwei
Published: October 2020

In order to optimize the dispersion structure of the filler in polymer composites, 15 nm SiO2 (HL‐150) and 6 nm SiO2 (HL‐380) are added to epoxy (EP). The total content of silica filler is fixed at 15 wt%, and the mass ratio of HL‐380 to HL‐150 in silica filler is adjusted. SiO2/EP nanocomposites are prepared by the sand milling and heat curing process. Transmission electron microscopy results show that the mixed SiO2 fillers are well dispersed in EP. With the increase of HL‐380 filler, the relative permittivity of the SiO2/EP nanocomposites with mixed SiO2 nano‐fillers increases, compared with the nanocomposites added HL‐150 filler alone. The electrical aging threshold and dielectric strength increases, and the inhibiting effect on space charge accumulation is enhanced. When the mass ratio of HL‐380 to HL‐150 is 1/6.89, the corona resistance life are the longest, with the value of 13.23 hours, which is 1.47 times than that of the composites with HL‐150 filler alone.
Cover Image, Volume 76, Issue 11
Authors: Singh Vijay , Etheredge Luke , McGinty Josh , Morgan Gaylon , Bagavathiannan Muthukumar
Published: October 2020

The cover image is based on the Research Article First case of glyphosate resistance in weedy sunflower (Helianthus annuus) by Vijay Singh et al., https://doi.org/10.1002/ps.5917.

image
Mechanisms underlying the selectivity of meta‐diamides between insect resistance to dieldrin (RDL) and human γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glycine receptors
Authors: Nakao Toshifumi , Banba Shinichi
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUND

Meta‐diamides [3‐benzamido‐N‐(4‐(perfluoropropan‐2‐yl)phenyl)benzamides] show high insecticide activity by acting as antagonists to the insect resistance to dieldrin (RDL) γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors. In contrast, low‐level antagonist activities of meta‐diamides have been demonstrated against the human GABA type A receptor (GABAAR) α1β2γ2S, mammalian GABAAR α1β3γ2S, and the human glycine receptor (GlyR) α1β. Glycine residue 336 in the membrane‐spanning region M3 of the Drosophila RDL GABA receptor is essential for its high sensitivity to meta‐diamide 7, [3‐benzamido‐N‐(2‐bromo‐4‐(perfluoropropan‐2‐yl)‐6‐(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)‐2‐fluorobenzamide].

RESULTS

We examined the effects of an equivalent mutation (M288G) in spontaneously opened human GABAAR β3 homomers using membrane potential assay. Picrotoxin and fipronil blocked spontaneously opened human GABAARs β3 and β3‐M286G in a concentration‐dependent manner. In contrast, meta‐diamide 7 did not block spontaneously opened GABAAR β3 homomers, although meta‐diamide 7 blocked spontaneously opened GABAAR β3‐M286G homomers. In addition, inhibitory potency of meta‐diamide 7 for GABA‐induced membrane potential change in cells expressing GABAAR α1β3‐M286G was much higher than that in cells expressing GABAAR α1β3. In the same way, the equivalent mutation (A288G) in GlyR α1 increased the inhibitory potency of meta‐diamide 7 for GlyRs α1 and α1β.

CONCLUSION

Studies substituting an equivalent mutation (M288G) in spontaneously opening human GABAAR β3 homomers and human GABAARs α1β3 heteromers suggest that M286 in human GABAAR β3 is important for the low sensitivity to meta‐diamide 7. In this study, we summarize the mechanisms underlying the selectivity of meta‐diamides between insect RDL and human GABA and glycine receptors. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
New iterative linear matrix inequality based procedure for H2 and H∞ state feedback control of continuous‐time polytopic systems
Authors: Hu Cheng , Jaimoukha Imad M.
Published: October 2020

This article provides new linear matrix inequality (LMI) sufficient conditions for a generalized robust state feedback control synthesis problem for linear continuous‐time polytopic systems. This generalized problem includes the robust stability, H2‐norm, and H∞‐norm problems as special cases. Using a novel general separation result, which separates the state feedback gain from the Lyapunov matrix but with the state feedback gain synthesized from the slack variable, then allows the formulation of LMI sufficient conditions for the generalized problem. Compared to existing parameterized LMI based conditions, where auxiliary scalar parameters are introduced in order to include the quadratic stability conditions (ie, assuming a constant Lyapunov matrix) as a special case, the proposed new conditions are true LMIs and contain as a particular case the optimal quadratic stability solution. Utilizing any initial solution derived by the quadratic or some existing methods as a starting solution, we propose an algorithm based on an iterative procedure, which is recursively feasible in each update, to compute a sequence of nonincreasing upper bounds for the H2‐norm and H∞‐norm. In addition, if no feasible initial solution can be found for some uncertain systems using any existing methods, another algorithm is presented that offers the possibility of obtaining a robust stabilizing gain. Numerical examples from the literature demonstrate that our algorithms can provide less conservative results than existing methods, and they can also find feasible solutions where all other methods fail.
Control‐channel interactions in diffusive dynamical networks: A graph‐theoretic perspective
Authors: Koorehdavoudi Kasra , Roy Sandip , Abad Torres Jackeline , Xue Mengran
Published: October 2020

Control‐channel interactions in a linear diffusive network model are studied, with the aim of determining the role of the network's topology in such interactions. Specifically, the influence of a built controller on the infinite and finite zero structure of a second control channel is characterized. The analysis shows how the network's graph topology, the relative positions of the two channels, and the architecture of the built controller influence the zero structure of the second control channel. Further, the influence of low or high gain controller designs on remote channels is examined. The analyses demonstrate that some control architectures and positions can introduce undesirable nonminimum‐phase dynamics at remote locations, while others are guaranteed to maintain or promote minimum‐phase dynamics.
A Metal–Polymer Hybrid Biomimetic System for use in the Chemodynamic‐Enhanced Photothermal Therapy of Cancers
Authors: Kong Lingdan , Yuan Feng , Huang Pingping , Yan Lu , Cai Zhenzhai , Lawson Tom , Wu Wencan , Chou Shulei , Liu Yong
Published: October 2020

This article reports the fabrication of a smart biomimetic enzyme system, which incorporates a pH‐responsive chemodynamic therapy (CDT) combined with a photothermal (PTT) therapy approach in resolving the high recurrence rate of deadly cancers. The resulting enzyme system comprises copper sulfide (CuS) nanoparticle (NP) cores as Fenton‐like catalysts, and a photothermal‐active generation 5 poly(amidoamine) (G5) dendrimer as a template for the entrapment of Cu NPs and the compression of glucose oxidase (GOD). GOD is introduced to produce H2O2 necessary in the sequential Fenton‐like reaction, and this generates hydroxyl radicals that kill the cancerous cells. Polyethylene glycol is added to the system to improve biocompatibility. Mechanism study suggests that the constructed CuS/G5‐GOD‐based system has a better Fenton‐like catalytic activity than a Fe3O4‐GOD‐based system. This allows the further inhibition on the residual tumors from recurrence and metastasis through CDT after being treated by PTT. The developed smart nanoscale biomimetic system shows high efficiency for breast cancer suppression from recurrence and metastasis by combining PTT with a pH‐responsive CDT. It has the potential to resolve the essential issue of cancer recurrence after its initial clinic treatment.
An Overview of Some Issues in the Theory of Deep Networks
Authors: Poggio Tomaso , Banburski Andrzej
Published: October 2020

During the last few years, significant progress has been made in the theoretical understanding of deep networks. We review our contributions in the areas of approximation theory and optimization. We also introduce a new approach based on cross‐validation leave‐one‐out stability to estimate bounds on the expected error of overparametrized classifiers, such as deep networks. © 2020 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Modeling tomato evapotranspiration and yield responses to salinity using different macroscopic reduction functions
Authors: Yang Hui , Du Taisheng , Mao Xiaomin , Shukla Manoj K
Published: October 2020

Plant responses to salinity can be used to manage irrigation with brackish water. This study evaluated effects of brackish water irrigation on tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) plants, proposed a new model to describe plant relative evapotranspiration (ET) and relative yield as a function of electrical conductivity of soil saturated paste extract (ECe), and compared the estimations of the new model with four other models (linear model of Mass and Hoffman, and three nonlinear models of van Genuchten, Dirksen, and Homaee). A greenhouse experiment was conducted with five salinity treatments: tap water of EC 0.6, brackish groundwater of EC 2 and 3, and reverse osmosis (RO) of EC 4 and 6 dS m−1. Results indicated no changes in leaf photosynthesis rate (Pn), transpiration rate (Tr), and stomatal conductance (Gs) up to 2 dS m−1 irrigation water salinity. Nonlinear models better described tomato yield and seasonal ET. The proposed new model performed best when compared with four previous models to predict tomato yield and ET responses to salinity. The calculated soil salinity threshold values (ECe*) from the new model were 1.73 dS m−1 for yield and 2.52 dS m−1 for ET. Data from published studies on effects of irrigation water salinity (ECw) on tomato yield and ET were analyzed to validate models. The results showed that the new model was simpler and superior in estimating plant responses to ECw. Tomato is a salt‐sensitive crop, and irrigation with brackish waters adversely influences growth and ET.
Low‐carbon transition risks for finance
Authors: Semieniuk Gregor , Campiglio Emanuele , Mercure Jean‐Francois , Volz Ulrich , Edwards Neil R.
Published: October 2020

The transition to a low‐carbon economy will entail a large‐scale structural change. Some industries will have to expand their relative economic weight, while other industries, especially those directly linked to fossil fuel production and consumption, will have to decline. Such a systemic shift may have major repercussions on the stability of financial systems, via abrupt asset revaluations, defaults on debt, and the creation of bubbles in rising industries. Studies on previous industrial transitions have shed light on the financial transition risks originating from rapidly rising “sunrise” industries. In contrast, a similar conceptual understanding of risks from declining “sunset” industries is currently lacking. We substantiate this claim with a critical review of the conceptual and historical literature, which also shows that most literature either examines structural change in the real economy, or risks to financial stability, but rarely both together. We contribute to filling this research gap by developing a consistent theoretical framework of the drivers, transmission channels, and impacts of the phase‐out of carbon‐intensive industries on the financial system and on the feedback from the financial system into the rest of the economy. We also review the state of play of policy aiming to protect the financial system from transition risks and spell out research implications.

This article is categorized under:

Climate Economics > Economics and Climate Change
Farmer's income and agrarian distress: The case of India
Authors: Singh Rohit
Published: October 2020

The paper analyses the effects of five distinct factors, which are responsible for high incidents of suicides among farmers in India. The study analyses the effect of ratio of net irrigated area to net sown area, average yield per hectare and expenditure by the households, and credit advanced to the farmers and proportion of food grain crops and non‐food grain crops on farmer's suicides. The study uses a panel data over 17 years (from 2001–2002 till 2017–2018) for all 28 states. The study finds that an increase in ratio of net irrigated area to net sown area, average yield and credit advanced to the farmers reduces the number of farmer suicides, whereas farmer's household expenditure and proportion of food to non‐food crops have no significant effect on suicides. Furthermore, the paper suggests that there are increased incidences of suicides by the farmers every year and the government need to amend its existing agricultural policies and work for the economic and social well‐being of the farmers, thus preventing suicides at a larger scale. The study also draws a comparison with Chinese policy at local level which may be implicated in India.
Synthesis of Homo‐ and Heteroleptic Al, Ga and Zn Complexes Containing (Per)fluorinated β‐Diketiminate Ligands
Authors: Huse Kevin , Li Bin , Ghosh Swarup , Wölper Christoph , Schulz Stephan
Published: October 2020

Alkane elimination reactions of equimolar amounts of 17Fnac2H (17Fnac2H = FC[C(CF3)NC6F5]2H) with ZnEt2 and AlMe3 as well as 16Fnac2H (16Fnac2H = HC[C(CF3)NC6F5]2H) with GaMe3 yielded the corresponding heteroleptic complexes of 17Fnac2ZnEt (1), 17Fnac2AlMe2 (2), and 16Fnac2GaMe2 (3), whereas reactions of two equivalents of 16Fnac2H and 17Fnac2H with either ZnEt2 or Cp*2Zn gave homoleptic ZnII complexes (16Fnac2)2Zn (4) and (17Fnac2)2Zn (5), respectively. 1–5 were characterized by IR and NMR spectroscopy (1H, 13C, 19F), elemental analysis and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction.
Conformal group theory of tensor structures
Authors: Burić Ilija , Schomerus Volker , Isachenkov Mikhail
Published: October 2020

Abstract

The decomposition of correlation functions into conformal blocks is an indispensable tool in conformal field theory. For spinning correlators, non-trivial tensor structures are needed to mediate between the conformal blocks, which are functions of cross ratios only, and the correlation functions that depend on insertion points in the d-dimensional Euclidean space. Here we develop an entirely group theoretic approach to tensor structures, based on the Cartan decomposition of the conformal group. It provides us with a new universal formula for tensor structures and thereby a systematic derivation of crossing equations. Our approach applies to a ‘gauge’ in which the conformal blocks are wave functions of Calogero-Sutherland models rather than solutions of the more standard Casimir equations. Through this ab initio construction of tensor structures we complete the Calogero-Sutherland approach to conformal correlators, at least for four-point functions of local operators in non-supersymmetric models. An extension to defects and superconformal symmetry is possible.
Compressions of Multiplication Operators and Their Characterizations
Authors: Câmara M. Cristina , Kliś–Garlicka Kamila , Łanucha Bartosz , Ptak Marek
Published: October 2020

Dual truncated Toeplitz operators and other restrictions of the multiplication by the independent variable $$M_z$$

M
z

on the classical $$L^2$$

L
2

space on the unit circle are investigated. Commutators are calculated and commutativity is characterized. A necessary and sufficient condition for any operator to be a dual truncated Toeplitz operator is established. A formula for recovering its symbol is stated.
Current treatment and outcomes of traumatic sternovertebral fractures: a systematic review
Authors: Klei Dorine S. , Öner F. Cumhur , Leenen Luke P. H. , van Wessem Karlijn J. P.
Published: October 2020

Purpose

Combined sternal and spinal fractures are rare traumatic injuries with significant risk of spinal and thoracic wall instability. Controversy remains with regard to treatment strategies and the biomechanical need for sternal fixation to achieve spinal healing. The present study aimed to assess outcomes of sternovertebral fracture treatment.

Methods

A systematic review of literature on the treatment of traumatic sternovertebral fractures was conducted. Original studies published after 1990, reporting sternal and spinal healing or stability were included. Studies not reporting treatment outcomes were excluded.

Results

Six studies were included in this review, with a total study population of 98 patients: 2 case series, 3 case reports, and 1 retrospective cohort study. 10 per cent of sternal fractures showed displacement. Most spinal fractures were located in the thoracic spine and were AOSpine type A (51%), type B (35%), or type C (14%). 14 per cent of sternal fractures and 49% of spinal fractures were surgically treated. Sternal treatment failure occurred in 5% of patients and biomechanical spinal failure in 8%. There were no differences in treatment failure between conservative and operative treatment.

Conclusion

Literature on traumatic sternovertebral fracture treatment is sparse. Findings indicate that in most patients, sternal fixation is not required to achieve sternal and spinal stability. However, results of the current review should be cautiously interpreted, since most included studies were of poor quality.
Health effects after inhalation of micro- and nano-sized zinc oxide particles in human volunteers
Authors: Monsé Christian , Raulf Monika , Jettkant Birger , van Kampen Vera , Kendzia Benjamin , Schürmeyer Leonie , Seifert Christoph Edzard , Marek Eike-Maximilian , Westphal Götz , Rosenkranz Nina , Merget Rolf , Brüning Thomas , Bünger Jürgen
Published: October 2020

Inhalation of ZnO particles can cause inflammation of the airways and metal fume fever. It is unclear if different sizes of the particles alter these effects. However, various studies report higher biological activity of other nano-sized particles compared to microparticles. No effects at all were observed after inhalation of micro- and nano-sized zinc oxide (ZnO) particle concentrations of 0.5 mg/m3. Studies with different particle sizes of ZnO at higher exposures are not available. Accordingly, we hypothesized that inhalation of nano-sized ZnO particles induces stronger health effects than the inhalation of the same airborne mass concentration of micro-sized ZnO particles. 16 healthy volunteers (eight men, eight women) were exposed to filtered air and ZnO particles (2.0 mg/m3) for 2 h (one session with nano- and one with micro-sized ZnO) including 1 h of cycling at moderate workload. Effect parameters were symptoms, body temperature, inflammatory markers in blood and in induced sputum. Induced sputum was obtained at baseline examination, 22 h after exposure and at the end of the final test. The effects were assessed before, immediately after, about 22 h after, as well as two and three days after each exposure. Neutrophils, monocytes and acute-phase proteins in blood increased 22 h after micro- and nano-sized ZnO exposure. Effects were generally stronger with micro-sized ZnO particles. Parameters in induced sputum showed partial increases on the next day, but the effect strengths were not clearly attributable to particle sizes. The hypothesis that nano-sized ZnO particles induce stronger health effects than micro-sized ZnO particles was not supported by our data. The stronger systemic inflammatory responses after inhalation of micro-sized ZnO particles can be explained by the higher deposition efficiency of micro-sized ZnO particles in the respiratory tract and a substance-specific mode of action, most likely caused by the formation of zinc ions.
A comparative study using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, air displacement plethysmography, and skinfolds to assess fat mass in preterms at term equivalent age
Authors: Yumani Dana F. J. , de Jongh Dide , Lafeber Harrie N. , van Weissenbruch Mirjam M.
Published: October 2020

The aim of this study was to compare whole body composition, generated by air displacement plethysmography (ADP) and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), and to evaluate the potential predictive value of the sum of skinfolds (∑SFT) for whole body composition, in preterm infants at term equivalent age. A convenience sample of sixty-five preterm infants with a mean (SD) gestational age of 29 (1.6) weeks was studied at term equivalent age. Fat mass measured by DXA and ADP were compared and the ability of the ∑SFT to predict whole body fat mass was investigated. There was poor agreement between fat mass percentage measured with ADP compared with DXA (limits of agreement: − 4.8% and 13.7%). A previously modeled predictive equation with the ∑SFT as a predictor for absolute fat mass could not be validated. Corrected for confounders, the ∑SFT explained 42% (ADP, p = 0.001) and 75% (DXA, p = 0.001) of the variance in fat mass percentage.

Conclusions: The ∑SFT was not able to accurately predict fat mass and ADP and DXA did not show comparable results. It remains to be elucidated whether or not DXA provides more accurate assessment of whole body fat mass than ADP in preterm infants.

Trial registration: NTR5311

What is Known:• Diverse methods are used to assess fat mass in preterm infants.

What is New:• This study showed that there is poor agreement between dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, air displacement plethysmography, and skinfold thickness measurements.• Our results affirm the need for consensus guidelines on how to measure fat mass in preterm infants, to improve the assimilation of data from different studies and the implementation of the findings from those studies.
Mechanistic models supporting uncertainty quantification of water quality predictions in heterogeneous mining waste rocks: a review
Authors: Muniruzzaman Muhammad , Pedretti Daniele
Published: October 2020

Polluted drainage from weathering of sulfide-rich waste rock deposits can cause long-term impairment to waterways and biodiversity near mining sites. Mechanistic models represent established tools to support the predictions of the quantity and quality of waste rock drainage, and their associated risks. Yet, model-based predictions in typical waste rock systems are ubiquitously uncertain because of the strongly heterogeneous nature of these waste deposits. Embedding heterogeneity within predictive modeling is complicated by the magnitude and level of knowledge of the waste rock heterogeneity, and the large number of scale-dependent parameters feeding the model equations. This review encompasses deterministic and stochastic modeling approaches that emphasize consolidated tools and emerging modeling solutions to deal with heterogeneity for the modeling of waste rocks. Physical (e.g., variability of texture, hydraulic and pneumatic properties), geochemical (e.g., variability of mineralogy and kinetic parameters), and thermal heterogeneities are evaluated. The review points out the importance of stochastic modeling as a fundamental approach to embed uncertainty in long-term model-based decisions. Regulators and decision makers must be convinced of the benefit of using stochastic modeling, which is still considered to belong mainly to the academic sphere.
Bioclimatic conditions of the Lower Silesia region (South-West Poland) from 1966 to 2017
Authors: Głogowski Arkadiusz , Bryś Krystyna , Perona Paolo
Published: October 2020

This work analyses the temporal and spatial characteristics of bioclimatic conditions in the Lower Silesia region. The daily time values (12UTC) of meteorological variables in the period 1966–2017 from seven synoptic stations of the Institute of Meteorology and Water Management (IMGW) (Jelenia Góra, Kłodzko, Legnica, Leszno, Wrocław, Opole, Śnieżka) were used as the basic data to assess the thermal stress index UTCI (Universal Thermal Climate Index). The UTCI can be interpreted by ten different thermal classes, representing the bulk of these bioclimatic conditions. Stochastic autoregressive moving-average modelling (ARMA) was used for the statistical analysis and modelling of the UTCI as well as separately for all meteorological components. This made it possible to test differences in predicting UTCI as a full index or reconstructing it from single meteorological variables. The results show an annual and seasonal variability of UTCI for the Lower Silesia region. Strong significant spatial correlations in UTCI were also found in all stations of the region. “No thermal stress” is the most commonly occurring thermal class in this region (about 38%). Thermal conditions related to cold stress classes occurred more frequently (all cold classes at about 47%) than those of heat stress classes (all heat classes at about 15%). Over the available 52-year period, the occurrence of “extreme heat stress” conditions was not detected. Autoregressive analysis, although successful in predicting UTCI, was nonetheless unsuccessful in reconstructing the wind speed, which showed a persistent temporal correlation possibly due to its vectorial origin. We conclude thereby that reconstructing UTCI using linear autoregressive methods is more suitable when working directly on the UTCI as a whole rather than reconstructing it from single variables.
Depression and related factors after oral oncological treatment: a 5-year prospective cohort study
Authors: Speksnijder Caroline M. , Lankhorst Petra J. M. , de Bree Remco , de Haan Anton F. J. , Koole Ron , Merkx Matthias A. W.
Published: October 2020

Purposes

Being diagnosed with oral cancer is a life-threatening life event. It often induces social, emotional and psychological consequences and may cause depressive disorders. The primary aim of this study was to identify and quantify the personal and clinical characteristics involved in depression for patients who have been treated for oral cavity malignancies, with a 5-year follow-up period after treatment. The secondary aim of this study was to identify the clinical factors that increase a patient’s risk of experiencing depression 5 years after treatment.

Methods

Patients with primary oral cancer were assessed for up to 5 years after primary treatment. A mixed-model analysis was performed, with depression measured by the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale as outcome measure.

Results

A total of 141 patients were included in the study. Factors associated with depression were gender, tumour location and having an emotion-oriented coping style. The occurrence of depression within 5 years after treatment could be reliably predicted by a patient’s gender, the location of their tumour and the extent to which they had an emotion-oriented coping style.

Conclusions

This study revealed that being female, having a maxillary tumour and having an emotion-oriented coping style are associated with higher levels of depressive symptoms in patients treated for oral cancer up to 5 years post-treatment. A substantial proportion of the patients with oral cancer experienced high levels of depression both before and after their treatment, suggesting that adequate diagnostics and care are needed to try to prevent severe depression in these patients.
Unraveling patients’ readiness in advance care planning conversations: a qualitative study as part of the ACTION Study
Authors: Zwakman M. , Milota M. M. , van der Heide A. , Jabbarian L. J. , Korfage I. J. , Rietjens J. A. C. , van Delden J. J. M. , Kars M. C.
Published: October 2020

Purpose

Patients’ readiness for advance care planning (ACP) is often considered a prerequisite for starting ACP conversations. Healthcare professionals’ uncertainty about patients’ readiness hampers the uptake of ACP in clinical practice. This study aims To determine how patients’ readiness is expressed and develops throughout an ACP conversation.

Methods

A qualitative sub-study into the ACTION ACP conversations collected as part of the international Phase III multicenter cluster-randomized clinical trial. A purposeful sample was taken of ACP conversations of patients with advanced lung or colorectal cancer who participated in the ACTION study between May 2015 and December 2018 (n = 15). A content analysis of the ACP conversations was conducted.

Results

All patients (n = 15) expressed both signs of not being ready and of being ready. Signs of being ready included anticipating possible future scenarios or demonstrating an understanding of one’s disease. Signs of not being ready included limiting one’s perspective to the here and now or indicating a preference not to talk about an ACP topic. Signs of not being ready occurred more often when future-oriented topics were discussed. Despite showing signs of not being ready, patients were able to continue the conversation when a new topic was introduced.

Conclusion

Healthcare professionals should be aware that patients do not have to be ready for all ACP topics to be able to participate in an ACP conversation. They should be sensitive to signs of not being ready and develop the ability to adapt the conversation accordingly.
Geochemical and Sr–Nd isotopic features of the Zaro volcanic complex: insights on the magmatic processes triggering a small-scale prehistoric eruption at Ischia island (south Italy)
Authors: Pelullo C. , Cirillo G. , Iovine R. S. , Arienzo I. , Aulinas M. , Pappalardo L. , Petrosino P. , Fernandez-Turiel J. L. , D’Antonio M.
Published: October 2020

The prehistoric (< 7 ka) Zaro eruption at Ischia island (Southern Italy) produced a lava complex overlaying a pyroclastic deposit. Although being of low energy, the Zaro eruption might have caused casualties among the neolithic population that inhabited that area of Ischia, and damages to their settlements. A similar eruption at Ischia with its present-day population would turn into a disaster. Therefore, understanding the magmatic processes that triggered the Zaro eruption would be important for volcanic hazard assessment and risk mitigation, so as to improve a knowledge that can be applied to other active volcanic areas worldwide. The main Zaro lava body is trachyte and hosts abundant mafic and felsic enclaves. Here all juvenile facies have been fully characterized from petrographic, geochemical and isotopic viewpoints. The whole dataset (major and trace element contents; Sr–Nd isotopic composition) leads to rule out a genetic link by fractional crystallization among the variable facies. Thus, we suggest that the Zaro mafic enclaves could represent a deep-origin mafic magma that mingled/mixed with the main trachytic one residing in the Ischia shallow magmatic system. The intrusion of such a mafic magma into a shallow reservoir filled by partly crystallized, evolved magma could have destabilized the magmatic system presumably acting as a rapid eruption trigger. The resulting processes of convection, mixing and rejuvenation have possibly played an important role in pre- and syn-eruptive phases also in several eruptions of different sizes in the Neapolitan area and elsewhere in the world.