bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SAPROPEL IN THE TECHNOLOGY OF PRODUCTION OF SEA-BUCKTHORN SEEDLINGS
Authors: N Mistratova A , V Bopp L
Published: February 2018

The biological effects of sapropel in the technology of growing sea- buckthorn seedlings are studied. It is established that the rooting of green cuttings of the studied varieties on the sapropelic substrate is higher compared to the classic version – peat + sand by 2,0 – 31,3%. It is revealed that the composition of the substrate, the use of the root formation stimulator and varietal characteristics of culture influence the further development of plants grown by the non-transplant method at the place of green cuttings rooting. The most positive effect on the quality of the sea-buckthorn planting material is obtained on the substrate of peat + sand. It is recommended to use the sapropel-based substrate for rooting of the sea-buckthorn stem cuttings in the production conditions, and to apply the transplant method for seedlings further growing.
CROPLAND SUITABILITY ASSESSMENT AND CONFUSION MATRIX EVALUATION WITH GIS
Authors: P Myagmartseren , I Myagmarjav
Published: February 2018

Aim of the research is to test multi-criteria method for suitability valuation with GIS method in cropland of Bornuur, Mongolia. The research has following steps: (i) to value the suitable land for cropland with basic condition (constraint mapping) (ii) to value the suitable land with Multi-criteria (factor mapping) analysis; iii) to check the integrated suitability assessment image with confusion matrix. Basic condition or constraint map is drawn with Boolean logic method. Weighted value for analysis had been calculated using “ranking hierarchy". Weighted linear model are used for it. Cropland factors hierarchy is sorted out through pair wais comparison technique. The relative weight is calculated using analytical hierarchy processing (AHP) method for sorting factors based on previous researches and shows following values: S=organic matter*0.36+ (A+B) horizon*0.22+ soil texture*0.16 + slope*0.08+ soil moisture*0.06+ altitude*0.04+ soil stoniness* 0.02+ exch. bases* 0.02 + pH*0.02. To check the accuracy and agreement the field study materials archived in 1989-2009 and performed model map had been used in confusion matrix evaluation. It could be concluded that suitability map is prpcessed somewhat correct according to the result of overall accuracy 0.83, matched cells 72-95% and Kappa coefficient 0.8 results. Correspondingly the places modeled for an exploration area for the cropland was matched to the current location of agricultural land possessions.
Relation between Luminosity and Surface Rotation of Spotted Stars
Authors: Ingila Rahim  , Muhammad Rashid Kamal Ansari
Published: February 2018

This communications explores the existence of a possible relationship between Luminosity and surface rotation for the study of the evolution of spotted stars using the data of Kepler’s and DI spotted stars. For the determination of such a relationship between luminosity and rotation the dependency of rotational shear on effective temperature is to be reviewed first. The strong dependence of rotational shear on the effective temperature in the range of 3000K and 6000K is confirmed by a power law. This dependence in turn introduces rotation as an evolutionary parameter for the study of the evolution of spotted stars. Multivariate Linear regression, Log-Log multivariate and Nonlinear Multivariate (2, 2) Degree models are constructed to determine the Luminosity of Kepler’s and Doppler imaging spotted stars with rotational shear, relative differential rotation and radius as independent variables. In this regard Log-Log model and Nonlinear Multivariate (2, 2) Degree model is best suited as compared to the linear model. In the next stage Log-Log model is applied to the main sequence Kepler’s stars (excluding giants) and also to the stars in the individual spectral classes A, F, G, K, and M. The model appears best for main sequence stars and also for the stars in the individual classes F-M. Applying the model on DI spotted stars the standard errors indicate that the adequacy of the model for DI spotted stars data is weak. A description of stellar motions and description of data and model used is given in the introduction.
Influence of Phytohormones on Callus Indication and Micrpropagation on Rose (Rosa indica L.)
Authors: Mehran Ali  , Shahla Karim Baloch  , Nighat Seema  , Shafqat Yaeen  , Arshad Ali Kaleri  , Rameez Raja Kaleri  , Ghulam Shah Nizamani  , Ghulam Farooq Subhapoto  , Mohsin Ali Kaleri  , Faizan Shahani  , Memona Shahani
Published: February 2018

Roses (Rosa indica L.) is one of the greatest significant flower collection in the biosphere and have commercial value in decorative, therapeutic and cosmetic trade. Speedy development and construction of disease free plants through in vitro technique have played a dynamic part in broadcast of salable rose cultivars. The five diverse meditations of growth controller such as (MS + 2.00 mg L-1 ), (IBA + 2.00 mg L-1 ), (AA + 30 gL-1 sucrose), (MS + 2.00 mg L-1), (BAP + 3.00 mg L-1 ), (NAA +30 mg L-1 sucrose), (MS + 2.00 mg L-1), (BAP + 3.00 mg L-1 ), ( IAA + 30 mg L-1 sucrose), (MS + 4 mg L-1), (BAP + 2.00 mg L-1), (( IAA + 30 mg L-1 sucrose) and (MS + 3.00 mg L-1 ), (BAP + 3.00 mg L-1), (IAA + 30 mg L-1 sucrose for shoot induction. After establishment of plantlets, stem was cast off as explants foundation for the initiation of callus. It is concluded that the two different concentrations 2.00 and 4.00 mg L-1 of 2 to 4 D were better worked out for callus induction.
Entrainer la cognition sociale auprès d’enfants présentant une déficience intellectuelle
Authors: Jacobs Émilie , Léonard Charline , Nader-Grosbois Nathalie , Houssa Marine , Mazzone Stéphanie
Published: February 2018

Cette étude investigue la possibilité de modifier les compétences socio-émotionnelles d’enfants présentant une déficience intellectuelle (DI) grâce à un entrainement de la Théorie de l’esprit (ToM) ou du Traitement de l’information sociale (TIS). Dix-huit enfants présentant une DI sont répartis aléatoirement dans le groupe contrôle ou dans un des deux groupes expérimentaux, entrainant grâce à une séance, soit la ToM, soit le TIS. Avant et après ceux-ci, une évaluation de l’âge développemental, des compétences en compréhension des états mentaux, en résolution de problèmes sociaux, en adaptation sociale et en régulation émotionnelle des enfants est réalisée. La comparaison entre les trois groupes montre que certaines performances en ToM ou en TIS peuvent être améliorées.
Oxygen and early animals
Authors: Rytkönen Kalle T
Published: February 2018

The biology of sponges provides clues about how early animals may have dealt with low levels of oxygen.
Development of Hospice and Palliative Medicine Knowledge and Skills for Emergency Medicine Residents: Using the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education Milestone Framework
Authors: Shoenberger Jan , Lamba Sangeeta , Goett Rebecca , DeSandre Paul , Aberger Kate , Bigelow Suzanne , Brandtman Todd , Chan Garrett K. , Zalenski Robert , Wang David , Rosenberg Mark , Jubanyik Karen
Published: February 2018

Objectives

Emergency medicine (EM) physicians commonly care for patients with serious life‐limiting illness. Hospice and palliative medicine (HPM) is a subspecialty pathway of EM. Although a subspecialty level of practice requires additional training, primary‐level skills of HPM such as effective communication and symptom management are part of routine clinical care and expected of EM residents. However, unlike EM residency curricula in disciplines like trauma and ultrasound, there is no nationally defined HPM curriculum for EM resident training. An expert consensus group was convened with the aim of defining content areas and competencies for HPM primary‐level practice in the ED setting. Our overall objective was to develop HPM milestones within a competency framework that is relevant to the practice of EM.

Methods

The American College of Emergency Physicians Palliative Medicine Section assembled a committee that included academic EM faculty, community EM physicians, EM residents, and nurses, all with interest and expertise in curricular design and palliative medicine.

Results

The committee peer reviewed and assessed HPM content for validity and importance to EM residency training. A topic list was developed with three domains: provider skill set, clinical recognition of HPM needs, and logistic understanding related to HPM in the ED. The group also developed milestones in HPM‐EM to identify relevant knowledge, skills, and behaviors using the framework modeled after the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) EM milestones. This framework was chosen to make the product as user‐friendly and familiar as possible to facilitate use by EM educators.

Conclusions

Educators in EM residency programs now have access to HPM content areas and milestones relevant to EM practice that can be used for curriculum development in EM residency programs. The HPM‐EM skills/competencies presented herein are structured in a familiar milestone framework that is modeled after the widely accepted ACGME EM milestones.
Meta-analysis of mortality in patients with high-risk intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms under observation
Authors: Vanella G. , Crippa S. , Archibugi L. , Arcidiacono P. G. , Delle Fave G. , Falconi M. , Capurso G.
Published: February 2018

Background

Although consensus guidelines suggest that patients with high-risk intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs) should have surgery, a non-operative strategy is often selected in patients who are poor surgical candidates. The aim was to determine the risk of disease-related death from IPMN in patients with worrisome features or high-risk stigmata who were kept under observation.

Methods

A PubMed literature search was undertaken of articles published from August 1992 to June 2016 (updated October 2017). The methodology was developed from PRISMA and MOOSE checklists. Incidence proportions and rates of overall and IPMN-related deaths were calculated, with subgroup analyses for main-duct/mixed-type and branch-duct IPMNs. Quality of the studies, publication bias and heterogeneity were explored.

Results

Six studies reported data on overall mortality and eight described disease-specific mortality for 556 patients during follow-up ranging from 24·9 to 60·0 months. Pooled rates of overall and IPMN-related mortality were 30·9 (95 per cent c.i. 19·6 to 45·1) and 11·6 (6·0 to 21·2) per cent respectively. The pooled incidence rate for overall mortality was substantially higher than that for IPMN-related mortality: 78 (95 per cent c.i. 44 to 111) and 23 (9 to 37) per 1000 patient-years respectively. The pooled incidence rate for disease-specific mortality was considerably lower for branch-duct than for main-duct or mixed-type IPMNs: 5 (0 to 10) and 32 (12 to 52) per 1000 patient-years respectively.

Conclusion

In patients unfit for surgery, IPMN-related mortality among patients with worrisome features and high-risk stigmata is low, and the risk of death from other causes much higher.
Randomized clinical trial of intraoperative parathyroid gland angiography with indocyanine green fluorescence predicting parathyroid function after thyroid surgery
Authors: Vidal Fortuny J. , Sadowski S. M. , Belfontali V. , Guigard S. , Poncet A. , Ris F. , Karenovics W. , Triponez F.
Published: February 2018

Background

Hypoparathyroidism, the most common complication after thyroid surgery, leads to hypocalcaemia and significant medical problems. An RCT was undertaken to determine whether intraoperative parathyroid gland angiography with indocyanine green (ICG) could predict postoperative hypoparathyroidism, and obviate the need for systematic blood tests and oral calcium supplementation.

Methods

Between September 2014 and February 2016, patients who had at least one well perfused parathyroid gland on ICG angiography were randomized to receive standard follow-up (measurement of calcium and parathyroid hormone (PTH) on postoperative day (POD) 1 and systematic supplementation with calcium and vitamin D; control group) or no supplementation and no blood test on POD 1 (intervention group). In all patients, calcium and PTH levels were measured 10–15 days after thyroidectomy. The primary endpoint was hypocalcaemia on POD 10–15.

Results

A total of 196 patients underwent ICG angiography during thyroid surgery, of whom 146 had at least one well perfused parathyroid gland on ICG angiography and were randomized. None of these patients presented with hypoparathyroidism, including those who did not receive calcium supplementation. The intervention group was statistically non-inferior to the control group (exact 95 per cent c.i. of the difference in proportion of patients with hypocalcaemia –0·053 to 0·053; P = 0·012). Eleven of the 50 excluded patients, in whom no well perfused parathyroid gland could be identified by angiography, presented with hypoparathyroidism on POD 1, and six on POD 10–15, which was significantly different from the findings in randomized patients (P = 0·007).

Conclusion

ICG angiography reliably predicts the vascularization of the parathyroid glands and obviates the need for postoperative measurement of calcium and PTH, and supplementation with calcium in patients with at least one well perfused parathyroid gland. Registration number: NCT02249780 (http://www.clinicaltrials.gov).
Responsible business under adverse conditions: Dilemmas regarding company contributions to local development
Authors: Kolk Ans , Lenfant François
Published: February 2018

While literature on companies’ contributions to local development exists, little is known about the specific dilemmas encountered on the ground when operating under adverse conditions, and how transparency can be improved. Companies typically need to navigate through a complex web of relationships with local stakeholders and deal with large expectations from communities. This article sheds light on these topics, using gold mining in Mali as a case illustrative for other difficult settings in developing countries. We find that many companies show transparency in reporting on development projects funded, local employees hired, taxes paid and local purchases. Concurrently, what companies do seems less important than how they do it, and with whom. The article offers practical and theoretical insights into how (international) companies can derive value from fine‐tuning their contribution to development and adjusting their reporting, and also contributes to current debates about inclusiveness in the context of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
PHASE VELOCITY TOMOGRAPHY OF RAYLEIGH WAVE IN QINLING‐DABIE AND ITS ADJACENT AREAS USING AMBIENT SEISMIC NOISE
Authors: Wen‐Xiu DING , Yuan‐Yuan FU , Yuan GAO , Wu‐Lin LIAO , Ya‐Juan HE , Yong‐Jian CAI , Xue‐Lin SHEN
Published: February 2018

The Qinling‐Dabie orogenic belt is located between the northeastern margin of the Tibetan Plateau and the Tan‐Lu fault; it was formed by the collision of Yangtze and North China blocks. We obtain the phase velocity of Rayleigh wave at the periods of 8∼35 s in the Qinling‐Dabie orogenic belt using ambient seismic noise recorded at 160 broad‐band stations from China digital seismic network. 24 month data have been cross‐correlated to yield the empirical Rayleigh wave Green's functions. Phase velocity dispersion curves are measured for each interstation path by frequency‐time analysis. The Rayleigh wave phase speed maps agree well with each other and show clear correlations with major tectonic structures. The Dabie is characterized by high velocity anomaly at 8 s but slow velocity at 14 s, indicating the influence of high pressure (HP)/ultrahigh pressure (UHP) metamorphic regions in the upper crust. At 25 s, the velocity varies from slow in the west to high in the east across the gravity gradient zone in the Taihang‐Wuling Mountains. This pattern mainly reflects the effect of crust thickness which is thicker in the west and thin in the east. The southern segment of Tan‐Lu fault shows different features across it at 14∼35 s, suggesting that the fault zone may extend down to the crust‐mantle boundary. The slow velocity close to the fault is probably caused by the hot material upwelling. More constraints are needed by further study. Obvious slow velocities at periods of 14∼25 s in South Qinglin and northeast Sichuan basin are observed. We could not determine whether this low velocity zone is due to the Tibetan lower crustal flow and/or the delamination of the South Qinglin now. Study of the 3‐D shear wave velocity structure in the crust and upper mantle is necessary to constrain the geodynamics of this region in the future.
A NUMERICAL STUDY OF THE EFFECTS OF AEROSOL ON ELECTRIFICATION AND LIGHTNING DISCHARGES IN THUNDERSTORMS
Authors: Yong‐Bo TAN , Xiao MA , Chun‐Yan XIANG , Yan‐Ling XIA , Xin ZHANG
Published: February 2018

Based on existing three‐dimensional (3‐D) thunderstorm electrification and discharge model, this work coupled with a classical parameterization scheme of aerosol activation is used to simulate a case of tropical convection in Changchun. The study shows that the change of aerosol concentration has an important influence on the microphysics, electrification and discharge processes of thunderstorm clouds. The results show that: (1) As the aerosol concentration increases in the polluted thunderclouds, the increase of the number of cloud droplets and the updraft cause the increase of the number of ice crystal and graupel, but the decrease of the scale; (2) Compared to the clean thunderclouds, the non‐induced electrification process is weak, while the induction electrification process is strong, and the duration of electrification become longer in polluted thunderclouds; (3) The first charge time of the polluted thunderclouds delays, but the total lightning frequency increases and duration is longer. Meanwhile, the frequency of the cloud‐to‐ground flash in the polluted thunderclouds increases, and the increase of the positive cloud‐to‐ground flash is more obvious.
A Comparative Study of Light‐Emitting Diodes Based on All‐Inorganic Perovskite Nanoparticles (CsPbBr3) Synthesized at Room Temperature and by a Hot‐Injection Method
Authors: Clasen Hames Bruno , Sánchez Sánchez Rafael , Fakharuddin Azhar , Mora‐Seró Iván
Published: February 2018

Perovskite nanoparticles (PeNPs) have been extensively studied for optoelectronic applications, owing to their extremely high photoluminescence quantum yield, tunable band gap, and exceptionally narrow emission spectra. Therefore, PeNPs are considered excellent candidates for the development of high‐efficiency, low‐cost, wide‐gamut, and high‐purity color displays. However, their synthesis typically involves multistep cumbersome processes that might hinder commercial development. Herein, green light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) prepared by using all‐inorganic PeNPs CsPbBr3 synthesized at room temperature (RT) are reported and their performance compared with those prepared by a traditional hot‐injection method. Insights into the morphology and optoelectronic properties of RT PeNPs are provided through AFM and TEM and employing them in LEDs.
Six‐month outcome after transcatheter edge‐to‐edge repair of severe tricuspid regurgitation in patients with heart failure
Authors: Orban Mathias , Besler Christian , Braun Daniel , Nabauer Michael , Zimmer Marion , Orban Martin , Noack Thilo , Mehilli Julinda , Hagl Christian , Seeburger Joerg , Borger Michael , Linke Axel , Thiele Holger , Massberg Steffen , Ender Joerg , Lurz Philipp , Hausleiter Jörg
Published: February 2018

Aims

Severe tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is common in patients with right‐sided heart failure (HF) and causes substantial morbidity and mortality. Treatment options beyond medical therapy are limited for high‐risk patients. Transcatheter edge‐to‐edge tricuspid valve (TV) repair showed procedural safety and short‐term efficacy. Impact on mid‐term outcome is unclear. This dual‐centre observational study evaluates the mid‐term safety, efficacy and clinical outcome after edge‐to‐edge TV repair for severe TR in patients with HF.

Methods and results

Overall, 50 patients with right‐sided HF and severe TR were treated with the transcatheter edge‐to‐edge repair technique; 14 patients were treated for isolated TR and 36 patients for combined mitral regurgitation (MR) and TR. At 6‐month follow‐up (available for 98% of patients), a persistent reduction of at least one echocardiographic TR grade was achieved in 90% of patients and New York Heart Association class improved in 79% of patients. The 6‐minute walk distance increased by 44% (+84 m, P < 0.001), the median N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide decreased by 30% (from 3625 to 2526 pg/mL, P = 0.002), and the quality of life score improved by 16% (decrease of 6 points in the Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire score, P = 0.056). The improvements were comparable in patients undergoing isolated TR or combined MR and TR treatment. During follow‐up, 8 patients died, 14 were hospitalized for worsening of HF, 2 underwent TV surgery, and 2 received a second TV clip procedure.

Conclusions

Transcatheter edge‐to‐edge TV repair for severe TR is safe and effective in reducing TR. It appears to be associated with improved clinical outcome in the majority of patients.
A comparative study of the antioxidant and intestinal protective effects of extracts from different parts of Java tea (Orthosiphon stamineus)
Authors: Cai Xuan , Xiao Changfeng , Xue Huiqin , Xiong Huihui , Hang Yiqiong , Xu Jianxiong , Lu Yonghong
Published: February 2018

The aim of this study was to compare the free radical scavenging ability and intestinal epithelial cell protective effects of Java tea (Orthosiphon stamineus) root extracts (ORE), stem extracts (OSE), and leaf extracts (OLE) to determine the potential of Java tea by‐products. The Java tea extracts were prepared using a standard water–ethanol method. The antioxidant activity and intestinal protective effects were tested by H2O2‐induced cell model and high‐fat diet‐induced mice model, respectively. The results showed that the total phenolic acid and flavonoid content and relative content were different in the ORE, OSE, and OLE. ORE had the highest total polyphenol and flavonoid content, the highest free radical scavenging rate, and the highest intracellular free radical scavenging rate. However, the yeast content in the ORE was lower than that in the OSE and OLE. All the Java tea extracts protected mouse intestine from high‐fat diet‐induced oxidative injury. This study indicates the potential of Java tea extracts as food or feed additives to protect the intestine from oxidative stress.
My journey in system dynamics and reflections on how to make a difference
Authors: Mashayekhi Ali N.
Published: February 2018

This paper describes my journey starting from when I entered the field of system dynamics at MIT, to being honored by receiving the lifetime achievement award from the System Dynamics Society. After I obtained my PhD with supervision from Professor Forrester, I made an important decision to move back to Iran while the country was in the midst of a revolution. I began my career in Iran as a teacher, as a consultant, and as an institutional builder in a very harsh and turbulent environment. This paper explains how I built credibility that allowed me to found influential institutions and graduate programs and attracted talented students to the field, some of whom are now prominent members of the System Dynamics Society. In concluding the paper, I also describe my areas of research and attempt some general observations for system dynamics.

Copyright © 2018 System Dynamics Society
Wet‐Chemical Etching of GaN: Underlying Mechanism of a Key Step in Blue and White LED Production
Authors: Tautz Markus , Díaz Díaz David
Published: February 2018

Gallium nitride (GaN) is the key material for the fabrication of blue and white light emitting diodes (LEDs). Etching of this material is applied to improve the light extraction efficiency of the product. Wet‐chemical etching of GaN is commonly carried out by treatment with aqueous KOH solution at elevated temperature. Thereby, the anisotropic etching results in a highly rough surface. Hence, a remarkably higher out‐coupling possibility of generated photons is feasible. On the other hand, anisotropy generally prohibits the application of a predictable and standardized etching process. In this review, both material‐ and process‐dependent influences on the etching performance in aqueous KOH solution are classified. Herein, we critically present the factors that affect the etching rate of GaN. Moreover, the etching mechanism at the molecular level and the generation of anisotropy from the hexagonal crystal lattice are discussed. The existing gaps in the current understanding of this process maintain the field still open for further research aligned to a permanent interest of the electronic industry.
Functionalized Graphdiyne Nanowires: On‐Surface Synthesis and Assessment of Band Structure, Flexibility, and Information Storage Potential
Authors: Klappenberger Florian , Hellwig Raphael , Du Ping , Paintner Tobias , Uphoff Martin , Zhang Liding , Lin Tao , Moghanaki Bahare Abedin , Paszkiewicz Mateusz , Vobornik Ivana , Fujii Jun , Fuhr Olaf , Zhang Yi‐Qi , Allegretti Francesco , Ruben Mario , Barth Johannes V.
Published: February 2018

Carbon nanomaterials exhibit extraordinary mechanical and electronic properties desirable for future technologies. Beyond the popular sp2‐scaffolds, there is growing interest in their graphdiyne‐related counterparts incorporating both sp2 and sp bonding in a regular scheme. Herein, we introduce carbonitrile‐functionalized graphdiyne nanowires, as a novel conjugated, one‐dimensional (1D) carbon nanomaterial systematically combining the virtues of covalent coupling and supramolecular concepts that are fabricated by on‐surface synthesis. Specifically, a terphenylene backbone is extended with reactive terminal alkyne and polar carbonitrile (CN) moieties providing the required functionalities. It is demonstrated that the CN functionalization enables highly selective alkyne homocoupling forming polymer strands and gives rise to mutual lateral attraction entailing room‐temperature stable double‐stranded assemblies. By exploiting the templating effect of the vicinal Ag(455) surface, 40 nm long semiconducting nanowires are obtained and the first experimental assessment of their electronic band structure is achieved by angle‐resolved photoemission spectroscopy indicating an effective mass below 0.1m0 for the top of the highest occupied band. Via molecular manipulation it is showcased that the novel oligomer exhibits extreme mechanical flexibility and opens unexplored ways of information encoding in clearly distinguishable CN‐phenyl trans–cis species. Thus, conformational data storage with density of 0.36 bit nm−2 and temperature stability beyond 150 K comes in reach.
Special issue on software engineering for Connected Health: Challenges and research roadmap
Authors: Carroll Noel , Kuziemsky Craig , Richardson Ita
Published: February 2018

Over the past decade, there have been increasing expectations and pressures placed on health care providers to deliver more efficient, quality, and safe health care services. As a result, this shifts the balance between supply‐and‐demand of health care services. It also brings about new challenges for health care professionals' capabilities to deliver safe and quality care in a timely manner. There are significant opportunities to exploit information and communications technology and transform how health care service is provided. Connected Health is one such transformation for health care management and changes in health care practice. However, the field of Connected Health is still in its infancy. This Special Issue in Software Engineering for Connected Health begins to address this and presents 5 quality contributions to demonstrate how software engineering research plays an important role in Connected Health research. These contributions also identify the limitations of the existing theories and to develop new or revised theories of Software Engineering for Connected Health.
Less global inequality can improve climate outcomes
Authors: Rao Narasimha D. , Min Jihoon
Published: February 2018

Two of the biggest global challenges we face today are mitigating climate change and economic inequality. Some research suggests these goals are in conflict, based largely on the observation that a dollar spent at higher income levels is less carbon intensive than at lower income levels. We put this concern to rest. We quantify this effect in its most extreme manifestation, both within countries and between countries. We use a wide range of income elasticities of emissions (0.7–1.0) and scenarios from the Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSP) with the highest (SSP4) and lowest (SSP5) between‐country inequality. Within countries, even with assumptions of low elasticities (0.7) and aggressive inequality reduction (Gini coefficient of 0.55 to 0.30), emissions would realistically increase by less than 8%, which would likely occur over several decades. Income convergence between countries may reduce the emissions intensity of global income growth, because the energy intensity reductions from income growth in emerging economies, such as India and China, offsets the energy increasing effect of higher growth in developing countries. Given these findings, it seems a distraction for future research to dwell on this narrow framing when there are deeper under‐explored linkages and synergies between reducing income inequality and climate change, such as the effect of reducing inequality on social norms, consumption and on political mobilization around climate policy.

This article is categorized under:

Climate and Development > Sustainability and Human Well‐Being
Moderate intensity physical activity associates with CSF biomarkers in a cohort at risk for Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Law Lena L. , Rol Rachael N. , Schultz Stephanie A. , Dougherty Ryan J. , Edwards Dorothy F. , Koscik Rebecca L. , Gallagher Catherine L. , Carlsson Cynthia M. , Bendlin Barbara B. , Zetterberg Henrik , Blennow Kaj , Asthana Sanjay , Sager Mark A. , Hermann Bruce P. , Johnson Sterling C. , Cook Dane B. , Okonkwo Ozioma C.
Published: February 2018

Introduction

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by the presence of amyloid β (Aβ) plaques, neurofibrillary tangles, and neurodegeneration, evidence of which may be detected in vivo via cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) sampling. Physical activity (PA) has emerged as a possible modifier of these AD‐related pathological changes. Consequently, the aim of this study was to cross‐sectionally examine the relationship between objectively measured PA and CSF levels of Aβ42 and tau in asymptomatic late‐middle‐aged adults at risk for AD.

Methods

Eighty‐five cognitively healthy late‐middle‐aged adults (age = 64.31 years, 61.2% female) from the Wisconsin Registry for Alzheimer's Prevention participated in this study. They wore an accelerometer (ActiGraph GT3X+) for one week to record free‐living PA, yielding measures of sedentariness and various intensities of PA (i.e., light, moderate, and vigorous). They also underwent lumbar puncture to collect CSF, from which Aβ42, total tau, and phosphorylated tau were immunoassayed. Regression analyses were used to examine the association between accelerometer measures and CSF biomarkers, adjusting for age, sex, and other relevant covariates.

Results

Engagement in moderate PA was associated with higher Aβ42 (P = .008), lower total tau/Aβ42 (P = .006), and lower phosphorylated tau/Aβ42 (P = .030). In contrast, neither light nor vigorous PA was associated with any of the biomarkers. Increased sedentariness was associated with reduced Aβ42 (P = .014).

Discussions

In this cohort, moderate PA, but not light or vigorous, was associated with a favorable AD biomarker profile, while sedentariness was associated with greater Aβ burden. These findings suggest that a physically active lifestyle may play a protective role against the development of AD.
Developmental States
Authors: Haggard Stephan
Published: February 2018

The concept of the developmental state emerged to explain the rapid growth of a number of countries in East Asia in the postwar period. Yet the developmental state literature also offered a theoretical approach to growth that was heterodox with respect to prevailing approaches in both economics and political science. Arguing for the distinctive features of developmental states, its proponents emphasized the role of government intervention and industrial policy as well as the significance of strong states and particular social coalitions. This literature blossomed into a wider approach, firmly planted in a much longer heterodox tradition, that explored comparisons with states that were decidedly not developmentalist, thus contributing to our historical understanding of long-run growth. This Element provides a critical but sympathetic overview of this literature and ends with its revival and a look forward at the possibility for developmentalist approaches, both in the advanced and developing world.
Why Judicial Formalism is Incompatible with the Rule of Law
Authors: Matczak Marcin
Published: February 2018

Judicial formalism is perceived as fully compliant with the requirements of the rule of law. With its reliance on plain meaning and its reluctance to apply historical, purposive and functional interpretative premises, it seems an ideal tool for constraining discretionary judicial powers and securing the predictability of law’s application, which latter is one of the main tenets of the rule of law. In this paper, I argue that judicial formalism is based on a misguided model of language, and as such cannot deliver what it promises. In fact, judicial decisions based on formalistic reasoning are surprising to their addressees and instead of promoting predictability, they undermine it. A judicial strategy fully compliant with the rule of law requires a different vision of language than that proposed by judicial formalism, and as a consequence, a different, moderately non-formalistic conception of legal interpretation.
Low Recruitment of Native Trees in a Deciduous Forest Associated with Japanese Barberry (Berberis thunbergii) Invasion
Authors: Link Arthur F. , Turnblacer Trey , Snyder Cierra K. , Daugherty Sarah E. , Utz Ryan M.
Published: February 2018

Invasive plants may dramatically impact forest ecosystems by establishing dense populations and suppressing the recruitment of native tree species. One invasive shrub currently spreading throughout eastern deciduous forests of North America, Japanese barberry (Berberis thunbergii DC), may be limiting tree recruitment in stands where it invades. Once established, B. thunbergii becomes densely populated within forest understories and suppresses native plants by competing for limited resources, altering soil conditions, and changing the understory microclimate. To quantify native seedling inhibition caused by B. thunbergii invasion, we conducted an observational study on seedling abundance within forest plots that were either invaded or not invaded by B. thunbergii and used survey data to generate Bayesian models of native seedling densities along gradients of increasing B. thunbergii stem counts and aboveground plant dry mass. Model outputs predicted that B. thunbergii–invaded plots had 82% lower seedling densities compared with uninvaded plots. Native tree seedling densities were very low even in areas with moderate B. thunbergii density, suggesting that reduced tree seedling densities are observed even at low densities of invasion. Our findings indicate that forests invaded with B. thunbergii harbor substantially lower densities of native tree seedlings, with potentially significant long-term consequences for forest ecological integrity, biodiversity, and ecosystem services.
Teinver SA and Others v. Argentine Republic
Authors: Collins Anne
Published: February 2018

On 21 July 2017, an International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) tribunal (Tribunal) chaired by Judge Thomas Buergenthal, with co-arbitrators Henri C. Alvarez (Claimants’ appointee) and Kamal Hossain (Respondent's appointee), issued its award in Teinver SA and others v. Argentine Republic (Award). The Tribunal upheld, by a majority, several of Claimants’ claims, and ordered Argentina to pay US$320 million in compensation, as well as 20% of Claimants’ legal costs and expenses. On 22 November 2017, Argentina registered a request to have the Award annulled.
Geographic Information System for Pigweed Distribution in the US Southeast
Authors: Fletcher Reginald S. , Reddy Krishna N.
Published: February 2018

In the southeastern United States, Amaranthus, or pigweed species, have become troublesome weeds in agricultural systems. To implement management strategies for the control of these species, agriculturalists need information on areas affected by pigweeds. Geographic information systems (GIS) afford users the ability to evaluate agricultural issues at local, county, state, national, and global levels. Also, they allow users to combine different layers of geographic information to help them develop strategic plans to solve problems. Furthermore, there is a growing interest in testing free and open-source GIS software for weed surveys. In this study, the free and open-source software QGIS was used to develop a geographic information database showing the distribution of pigweeds at the county level in the southeastern United States. The maps focused on the following pigweeds: Palmer amaranth, redroot pigweed, and tall waterhemp. Cultivated areas and glyphosate-resistant (GR) pigweed data were added to the GIS database. Database queries were used to demonstrate applications of the GIS for precision agriculture applications at the county level, such as tallying the number of counties affected by the pigweeds, identifying counties reporting GR pigweed, and identifying cultivated areas located in counties with GR pigweeds. This research demonstrated that free and open-source software such as QGIS has strong potential as a decision support tool, with implications for precision weed management at the county scale.
Willingness of Older Adults to Share Mobile Health Data with Researchers
Authors: Seifert Alexander , Christen Markus , Martin Mike
Published: February 2018

Abstract. This study explored the use of wearable devices to track self-recorded health data and the willingness to share this data with researchers. Participants aged ≥ 50 years (n = 1,013) were interviewed in a representative telephone survey. Results indicated that 43.3% of all participants used one or more mobile devices (activity tracker, smartwatch, smartphone, or tablet), and that 27.6% used those devices for the purposes of recording health data. Additionally, 57.2% of the participants who tracked their health data were willing to share it with researchers. Income significantly contributed to predicting this willingness, whereas other independent variables were not significant predictors. This study indicates a relatively positive overall willingness to share self-recorded mobile health data with the science community.
Publisher Correction: Nanoplasmonic electron acceleration by attosecond-controlled forward rescattering in silver clusters
Authors: Passig Johannes , Zherebtsov Sergey , Irsig Robert , Arbeiter Mathias , Peltz Christian , Göde Sebastian , Skruszewicz Slawomir , Meiwes-Broer Karl-Heinz , Tiggesbäumker Josef , Kling Matthias F. , Fennel Thomas
Published: February 2018

The original PDF version of this Article contained an error in Equation 1. The original HTML version of this Article contained errors in Equation 2 and Equation 4. These errors have now been corrected in both the PDF and the HTML versions of the Article.
Rationally designed synthetic protein hydrogels with predictable mechanical properties
Authors: Wu Junhua , Li Pengfei , Dong Chenling , Jiang Heting , Bin Xue  , Gao Xiang , Qin Meng , Wang Wei , Bin Chen  , Cao Yi
Published: February 2018

Designing synthetic protein hydrogels with tailored mechanical properties similar to naturally occurring tissues is an eternal pursuit in tissue engineering and stem cell and cancer research. However, it remains challenging to correlate the mechanical properties of protein hydrogels with the nanomechanics of individual building blocks. Here we use single-molecule force spectroscopy, protein engineering and theoretical modeling to prove that the mechanical properties of protein hydrogels are predictable based on the mechanical hierarchy of the cross-linkers and the load-bearing modules at the molecular level. These findings provide a framework for rationally designing protein hydrogels with independently tunable elasticity, extensibility, toughness and self-healing. Using this principle, we demonstrate the engineering of self-healable muscle-mimicking hydrogels that can significantly dissipate energy through protein unfolding. We expect that this principle can be generalized for the construction of protein hydrogels with customized mechanical properties for biomedical applications.
Phonon-driven spin-Floquet magneto-valleytronics in MoS2
Authors: Shin Dongbin , Hübener Hannes , De Giovannini Umberto , Jin Hosub , Rubio Angel , Park Noejung
Published: February 2018

Two-dimensional materials equipped with strong spin–orbit coupling can display novel electronic, spintronic, and topological properties originating from the breaking of time or inversion symmetry. A lot of interest has focused on the valley degrees of freedom that can be used to encode binary information. By performing ab initio time-dependent density functional simulation on MoS2, here we show that the spin is not only locked to the valley momenta but strongly coupled to the optical E″ phonon that lifts the lattice mirror symmetry. Once the phonon is pumped so as to break time-reversal symmetry, the resulting Floquet spectra of the phonon-dressed spins carry a net out-of-plane magnetization (≈0.024μB for single-phonon quantum) even though the original system is non-magnetic. This dichroic magnetic response of the valley states is general for all 2H semiconducting transition-metal dichalcogenides and can be probed and controlled by infrared coherent laser excitation.
Publisher Correction: Polymorphic design of DNA origami structures through mechanical control of modular components
Authors: Lee Chanseok , Lee Jae Young , Kim Do-Nyun
Published: February 2018

The originally published version of this Article contained an error in Figure 5. In panel f, the right y-axis ‘Strain energy (kbT)’ was labelled ‘Probability’ and the left y-axis ‘Probability’ was labelled ‘Strain energy (kbT)’. This error has now been corrected in both the PDF and HTML versions of the Article.
Peridotite weathering is the missing ingredient of Earth’s continental crust composition
Authors: Beinlich Andreas , Austrheim Håkon , Mavromatis Vasileios , Grguric Ben , Putnis Christine V. , Putnis Andrew
Published: February 2018

The chemical composition of the continental crust cannot be adequately explained by current models for its formation, because it is too rich in Ni and Cr compared to that which can be generated by any of the proposed mechanisms. Estimates of the crust composition are derived from average sediment, while crustal growth is ascribed to amalgamation of differentiated magmatic rocks at continental margins. Here we show that chemical weathering of Ni- and Cr-rich, undifferentiated ultramafic rock equivalent to ~1.3 wt% of today’s continental crust compensates for low Ni and Cr in formation models of the continental crust. Ultramafic rock weathering produces a residual that is enriched in Ni and also silica. In the light of potentially large volumes of ultramafic rock and high atmospheric CO2 concentrations during the Archean, chemical weathering must therefore have played a major role in forming compositionally evolved components of the early Earth’s crust.
Blue mussel shell shape plasticity and natural environments: a quantitative approach
Authors: Telesca Luca , Michalek Kati , Sanders Trystan , Peck Lloyd S. , Thyrring Jakob , Harper Elizabeth M.
Published: February 2018

Shape variability represents an important direct response of organisms to selective environments. Here, we use a combination of geometric morphometrics and generalised additive mixed models (GAMMs) to identify spatial patterns of natural shell shape variation in the North Atlantic and Arctic blue mussels, Mytilus edulis and M. trossulus, with environmental gradients of temperature, salinity and food availability across 3980 km of coastlines. New statistical methods and multiple study systems at various geographical scales allowed the uncoupling of the developmental and genetic contributions to shell shape and made it possible to identify general relationships between blue mussel shape variation and environment that are independent of age and species influences. We find salinity had the strongest effect on the latitudinal patterns of Mytilus shape, producing shells that were more elongated, narrower and with more parallel dorsoventral margins at lower salinities. Temperature and food supply, however, were the main drivers of mussel shape heterogeneity. Our findings revealed similar shell shape responses in Mytilus to less favourable environmental conditions across the different geographical scales analysed. Our results show how shell shape plasticity represents a powerful indicator to understand the alterations of blue mussel communities in rapidly changing environments.
Mesenchymal stromal cells inhibit NLRP3 inflammasome activation in a model of Coxsackievirus B3-induced inflammatory cardiomyopathy
Authors: Miteva Kapka , Pappritz Kathleen , Sosnowski Marzena , El-Shafeey Muhammad , Müller Irene , Dong Fengquan , Savvatis Konstantinos , Ringe Jochen , Tschöpe Carsten , Van Linthout Sophie
Published: February 2018

Inflammation in myocarditis induces cardiac injury and triggers disease progression to heart failure. NLRP3 inflammasome activation is a newly identified amplifying step in the pathogenesis of myocarditis. We previously have demonstrated that mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) are cardioprotective in Coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3)-induced myocarditis. In this study, MSC markedly inhibited left ventricular (LV) NOD2, NLRP3, ASC, caspase-1, IL-1β, and IL-18 mRNA expression in CVB3-infected mice. ASC protein expression, essential for NLRP3 inflammasome assembly, increased upon CVB3 infection and was abrogated in MSC-treated mice. Concomitantly, CVB3 infectionin vitroinduced NOD2 expression, NLRP3 inflammasome activation and IL-1β secretion in HL-1 cells, which was abolished after MSC supplementation. The inhibitory effect of MSC on NLRP3 inflammasome activity in HL-1 cells was partly mediated via secretion of the anti-oxidative protein stanniocalcin-1. Furthermore, MSC application in CVB3-infected mice reduced the percentage of NOD2-, ASC-, p10- and/or IL-1β-positive splenic macrophages, natural killer cells, and dendritic cells. The suppressive effect of MSC on inflammasome activation was associated with normalized expression of prominent regulators of myocardial contractility and fibrosis to levels comparable to control mice. In conclusion, MSC treatment in myocarditis could be a promising strategy limiting the adverse consequences of cardiac and systemic NLRP3 inflammasome activation.