bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Major Differences in Diet across Three Linguistic Regions of Switzerland: Results from the First National Nutrition Survey menuCH
Authors: Chatelan Angeline , Beer-Borst Sigrid , Randriamiharisoa Alex , Pasquier Jerome , Blanco Juan , Siegenthaler Stefan , Paccaud Fred , Slimani Nadia , Nicolas Genevieve , Camenzind-Frey Esther , Zuberbuehler Christine , Bochud Murielle
Published: October 2017

Switzerland is a multilingual country located between Germany, France and Italy, which differ by dietary habits and related outcomes. We explored differences in food consumption as well as compliance to the Swiss food-based dietary guidelines (FBDG) across the German-, French-, and Italian-speaking regions. The 2014–2015 nationwide cross-sectional survey was conducted among a stratified random sample of 2057 adults aged 18 to 75 years. Trained dietitians assessed food consumption via two non-consecutive 24-h dietary recalls using the international validated software GloboDiet®. Recorded foods and beverages were classified into six groups and 31 subgroups relevant for assessing compliance to the FBDG (Swiss Food Pyramid). Usual daily intake distributions were modelled and weighted for sampling design, non-response, weekdays and season. Participation rate was 38%. Significant differences across regions were observed in 18 of 31 food subgroups (p ≤ 0.01). Weighted mean daily intakes in the German-, French- and Italian-speaking regions were, respectively, 245 g, 155 g, 140 g for soft drinks, 273 g, 214 g, 135 g for coffee, 127 g, 72 g, 109 g for milk, 32 g, 45 g, 43 g for red meat, 18 g, 29 g, 34 g for fish/seafood, 8.1 g, 6.4 g, 3.7 g for butter, and 206 g, 214 g, 168 g for vegetables. The seven FBDGs were followed by <1% of the population. Four in 10 participants met ≥3 FBDG. Eighteen percent of participants ate ≥5 portions of fruit and vegetables a day, without regional differences. Food consumption substantially differed across the three linguistic regions of Switzerland. Adherence to FBDG was uniformly low. This highlights the potential influence of culture on diet. Nutritional education along with public health interventions are needed and may be most efficient if regionally targeted.
Clinical Effect of IRT-5 Probiotics on Immune Modulation of Autoimmunity or Alloimmunity in the Eye
Authors: Kim Jaeyoung , Choi Se , Kim Yu , Jeong Hyun , Ryu Jin , Lee Hyun , Kim Tae , Im Sin-Hyeog , Oh Joo , Kim Mee
Published: October 2017

Background: Although the relation of the gut microbiota to a development of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases has been investigated in various animal models, there are limited studies that evaluate the effect of probiotics in the autoimmune eye disease. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the effect of IRT-5 probiotics consisting of Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus reuteri, Bifidobacterium bifidum, and Streptococcus thermophilus on the autoimmunity of uveitis and dry eye and alloimmunity of corneal transplantation. Methods: Experimental autoimmune uveitis was induced by subcutaneous immunization with interphotoreceptor-binding protein and intraperitoneal injection of pertussis toxin in C57BL/6 (B6) mice. For an autoimmune dry eye model, 12-weeks-old NOD.B10.H2b mice were used. Donor cornea of B6 mice was transplanted into BALB/C mice. IRT-5 probiotics or phosphate buffered saline (PBS) were administered for three weeks immediately after induction of uveitis or transplantation. The inflammation score of the retinal tissues, dry eye manifestations (corneal staining and tear secretion), and graft survival were measured in each model. The changes of T cells were evaluated in drainage lymph nodes using fluorescence-activated cell sorting. Results: Retinal histology score in IRT-5 group of uveitis was lower than that in PBS group (p = 0.045). Ocular staining score was lower (p < 0.0001) and tear secretion was higher (p < 0.0001) in the IRT-5 group of NOD.B10.H2b mice than that in the PBS group. However, the graft survival in the IRT-5 group was not different from those of PBS group. The percentage of regulatory T cells was increased in the IRT-5-treated dry eye models (p = 0.032). The percentage of CD8+IL-17hi (p = 0.027) and CD8+ interferon gamma (IFNγ)hi cells (p = 0.022) were significantly decreased in the IRT-5-treated uveitis models and the percentage of CD8+IFNγhi cells was markedly reduced (p = 0.036) in IRT-5-treated dry eye model. Conclusion: Our results suggest that administration of IRT-5 probiotics may modulate clinical manifestations of autoimmunity in the eye, but not on alloimmunity of corneal transplantation.
Stimuli Responsive Polymer-Based 3D Optical Crystals for Sensing
Authors: Zhang Qiang , Serpe Michael , Mugo Samuel
Published: October 2017

3D optical crystals have found their applications in sensing, actuation, optical devices, batteries, supercapacitors, etc. The 3D optical crystal devices are comprised of two main components: colloidal gels and nanoparticles. Nanoparticles self-assemble into face center cubic structures in colloidal gels. The inherent 3D optical crystal structure leads to display of structural colors on these devices following light impingement. As such, these optical properties have led to the utilization of these 3D optical crystals as self-reporting colorimetric sensors, which is the focus of this review paper. While there is extensive work done so far on these materials to exhaustively be covered in this review, we focus here in on: mechanism of color display, materials and preparation of 3D optical crystals, introduction of recent sensing examples, and combination of 3D optical crystals with molecular imprinting technology. The aim of this review is to familiarize the reader with recent developments in the area and to encourage further research in this field to overcome some of its challenges as well as to inspire creative innovations of these materials.
Strategies to Fabricate Polypeptide-Based Structures via Ring-Opening Polymerization of N-Carboxyanhydrides
Authors: González-Henríquez Carmen M. , Sarabia-Vallejos Mauricio A. , Rodríguez-Hernández Juan
Published: October 2017

In this review, we provide a general and clear overview about the different alternatives reported to fabricate a myriad of polypeptide architectures based on the ring-opening polymerization of N-carbonyanhydrides (ROP NCAs). First of all, the strategies for the preparation of NCA monomers directly from natural occurring or from modified amino acids are analyzed. The synthetic alternatives to prepare non-functionalized and functionalized NCAs are presented. Protection/deprotection protocols, as well as other functionalization chemistries are discussed in this section. Later on, the mechanisms involved in the ROP NCA polymerization, as well as the strategies developed to reduce the eventually occurring side reactions are presented. Finally, a general overview of the synthetic strategies described in the literature to fabricate different polypeptide architectures is provided. This part of the review is organized depending on the complexity of the macromolecular topology prepared. Therefore, linear homopolypeptides, random and block copolypeptides are described first. The next sections include cyclic and branched polymers such as star polypeptides, polymer brushes and highly branched structures including arborescent or dendrigraft structures.
Intelligibility and Normativity in the Study of Religion
Authors: Ranganathan Bharat
Published: October 2017

In his essay “The Devil in Mr. Jones,” J. Z. Smith issues a call. If religionists do not, he writes, “persist in the quest for intelligibility, there can be no human sciences, let alone, any place for the study of religion within them.” How should Smith’s call be construed? In other words, what constitutes the “quest for intelligibility”? And what (if anything) differentiates the religionist’s quest for intelligibility from that of other humanistic scholars? Taking as my starting point Smith’s call, I will mount a constructive proposal. On my proposal, religionists should conceive their task as twofold. First, religionists should comparatively describe religious phenomena. Second, they should evaluate these phenomena. Only if the practices of description and prescription are tethered will religious studies succeed in its quest for intelligibility.
A New Composite Index for Greenhouse Gases: Climate Science Meets Social Science
Authors: Edmonds Heidi , Lovell Julie , Lovell C.
Published: October 2017

Global greenhouse gas emissions have increased at a rate of nearly 2% per year since 1970, and the rate of increase has been increasing. The contribution of greenhouse gases to global warming constitutes an environmental management challenge requiring interdisciplinary effort and international cooperation. In an effort to meet this challenge, the Kyoto Protocol imposes limits on aggregate CO2-equivalent emissions of four greenhouse gases, although it permits countries to trade off one gas for another at specified rates. This requires a definition of trade-off rates, which the Protocol specifies as Global Warming Potentials, although these have been controversial since their introduction. The primary source of concern has been the constancy of the trade-off rates, both across countries and through time. We propose a new composite index that allows freely variable trade-off rates, thereby facilitating the design of efficient abatement policy. In a pair of exercises we compare our composite index with that used by the Protocol. In both exercises we reject the constancy of trade-off rates, although despite the significantly different weighting schemes we find a degree of concordance between the two greenhouse gas indices.
Towards Intelligent Interpretation of Low Strain Pile Integrity Testing Results Using Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Cui De-Mi , Yan Weizhong , Wang Xiao-Quan , Lu Lie-Min
Published: October 2017

Low strain pile integrity testing (LSPIT), due to its simplicity and low cost, is one of the most popular NDE methods used in pile foundation construction. While performing LSPIT in the field is generally quite simple and quick, determining the integrity of the test piles by analyzing and interpreting the test signals (reflectograms) is still a manual process performed by experienced experts only. For foundation construction sites where the number of piles to be tested is large, it may take days before the expert can complete interpreting all of the piles and delivering the integrity assessment report. Techniques that can automate test signal interpretation, thus shortening the LSPIT’s turnaround time, are of great business value and are in great need. Motivated by this need, in this paper, we develop a computer-aided reflectogram interpretation (CARI) methodology that can interpret a large number of LSPIT signals quickly and consistently. The methodology, built on advanced signal processing and machine learning technologies, can be used to assist the experts in performing both qualitative and quantitative interpretation of LSPIT signals. Specifically, the methodology can ease experts’ interpretation burden by screening all test piles quickly and identifying a small number of suspected piles for experts to perform manual, in-depth interpretation. We demonstrate the methodology’s effectiveness using the LSPIT signals collected from a number of real-world pile construction sites. The proposed methodology can potentially enhance LSPIT and make it even more efficient and effective in quality control of deep foundation construction.
Determinants of Corporate Social Responsibility Disclosure: An Empirical Study of Polish Listed Companies
Authors: Dyduch Justyna , Krasodomska Joanna
Published: October 2017

In this paper we explore whether a number of elements influence the levels of corporate social responsibility (CSR) disclosure in the annual reports of Polish companies. These elements include the following: company size, profitability, financial leverage, industry environmental sensitivity, board size, women on the board, internationalization, and reputation. We use content analysis to determine the quality of CSR disclosures. We test our hypotheses using a Tobit regression analysis on a sample of 60 reports from Polish companies listed on the Warsaw Stock Exchange. We find industry environmental sensitivity to have significant influence on CSR disclosures. Our research findings also reveal a relationship between company turnover, duration of the stock exchange listing, inclusion in the Respect Index portfolio and foreign capital share, and the level of CSR disclosures. This study extends the scope of previous studies by including non-commonly used independent variables: the company’s internationalization and reputation. To the authors’ knowledge, it is the primary step to investigating CSR reporting practices coupled with the corporate characteristics in a Central and Eastern European country such as Poland. The paper contributes to the understanding of determinants of CSR disclosure and offers findings which are potentially useful for both theory and practice.
Self-Sufficiency versus Security: How Trade Protectionism Challenges the Sustainability of the Food Supply in Russia
Authors: Erokhin Vasilii
Published: October 2017

Food security is increasingly influenced by multilateral trade systems and foreign trade policies implemented by national governments. Many of them are now concerned about the sustainability of food supply and the vulnerability of domestic food markets to price volatility, and seek to support domestic producers and protect themselves from increasing food imports. Such restrictions improve food self-sufficiency, but decrease food security. It is important to understand any changes that may have occurred in the food consumption pattern due to trade protectionism and to observe any nutritional implications of these changes. This paper employs the rational food security (RFS) assessment approach, which differentiates sources of food supply on the domestic market, assesses the influence of agricultural and trade frameworks on food consumption patterns, and complies consumption with the appropriate food intake threshold. In the case of Russia, the study demonstrates that the conventional consumption approach to self-sufficiency (FSCA) underestimates the food insecurity level by not accounting for nutrition factors. In addition, the gap between the FSCA and the RFS increases in times of protectionist trade policy and decreases when the agricultural and trade policy framework turns to liberalization. The paper concludes that trade protectionism challenges the sustainability of food supply by decreasing food availability and quality of food products, causes dietary changes, and threatens the food security of the country.
Sustainable Urbanization and Development Goals Strategy through Public–Private Partnerships in a South-Asian Metropolis
Authors: Anwar Bilal , Xiao Zhongdong , Akter Sharmin , Rehman Ramiz-Ur
Published: October 2017

Contemporary urbanization appears as a conundrum especially in developing nations. This study will act as an accelerator to spill out snags caused by urbanization with a new approach in the development of sustainable infrastructure through Public–Private Partnerships (3Ps). This study first explains the complications generated by rapid urbanization in different infrastructural sectors in South Asian mega cities like Dhaka and Lahore. Second, the findings of the study elaborate on a new mechanism to adapt to Sustainable Development Goal 11 declared by the United Nations with the engagement of different stake holders working in different silos through 3Ps (like BOT, BOOT, BLT, DBF, PFI etc.). This study uses case studies as part of the research mixed methodology. Studies on Dhaka and Lahore including multi projects through 3Ps, and a detailed questionnaire survey based on critical risk factors from the Meta review of 3P literature are presented to establish the current status of sustainable development goals. This paper primarily contributes in two ways. First, by providing a new direction to policy makers to devise policies using a twofold approach i.e., grasp urbanization with sustainable infrastructure delivery by sustainable enactment of 3P projects. Second, bridge the knowledge gap by identifying the risk factors in the sustainable establishment of 3P projects in developing nations.
Soluble CD40 Ligand and Oxidative Response Are Reciprocally Stimulated during Shiga Toxin-Associated Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome
Authors: Abrey Recalde Maria , Alvarez Romina , Alberto Fabiana , Mejias Maria , Ramos Maria , Fernandez Brando Romina , Bruballa Andrea , Exeni Ramon , Alconcher Laura , Ibarra Cristina , Amaral María , Palermo Marina
Published: October 2017

Shiga toxin (Stx), produced by Escherichia coli, is the main pathogenic factor of diarrhea-associated hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), which is characterized by the obstruction of renal microvasculature by platelet-fibrin thrombi. It is well known that the oxidative imbalance generated by Stx induces platelet activation, contributing to thrombus formation. Moreover, activated platelets release soluble CD40 ligand (sCD40L), which in turn contributes to oxidative imbalance, triggering the release of reactive oxidative species (ROS) on various cellular types. The aim of this work was to determine if the interaction between the oxidative response and platelet-derived sCD40L, as consequence of Stx-induced endothelium damage, participates in the pathogenic mechanism during HUS. Activated human glomerular endothelial cells (HGEC) by Stx2 induced platelets to adhere to them. Although platelet adhesion did not contribute to endothelial damage, high levels of sCD40L were released to the medium. The release of sCD40L by activated platelets was inhibited by antioxidant treatment. Furthermore, we found increased levels of sCD40L in plasma from HUS patients, which were also able to trigger the respiratory burst in monocytes in a sCD40L-dependent manner. Thus, we concluded that platelet-derived sCD40L and the oxidative response are reciprocally stimulated during Stx2-associated HUS. This process may contribute to the evolution of glomerular occlusion and the microangiopathic lesions.
Travel and Insight on the Limen: A Content Analysis of Adventure Travel Narratives
Authors: Goodnow Jasmine M. , Bordoloi Samit
Published: October 2017

Travel narratives, both historical and modern, depict a hero's quest for insight and self-discovery where the outward journey is a literal and metaphorical search for one's authentic self, spirituality, and life's meaning. This article reports the results of a study that examined the
association between travel's liminal experience and insight. Using content analysis of 50 published adventure travel narratives, a significant association between insight and liminality was identified, and the tentative conclusion that liminal experience may be a stimulus for insight was made.
Variables (solo/group travel, travel motivation, gender, and cultural novelty) hypothesized to moderate the association between liminality and insight were also explored. Hierarchical log linear modeling identified only one significant three-way association: travel motive. Travelers who sought
to escape negative associations with home were less likely to experience liminality and insight than those who were motivated to travel for other reasons.
Temporal population genetic structure in the pollen pool for flowering time: A field experiment with Brassica rapa (Brassicaceae)
Authors: Ison Jennifer L. , Weis Arthur E.
Published: October 2017

PREMISE OF THE STUDY:

Assortative mating by flowering time can cause temporal genetic structure in species with heritable flowering times. A strong temporal structure, when coupled with a seasonal shift in selection, may lead to adaptive temporal clines. We implemented a prospective and retrospective method to estimate the temporal genetic structure in the pollen pool of Brassica rapa.

METHODS:

The prospective method uses flowering schedules to estimate the seasonal shift in the pollen donors’ phenotype. By examining the offspring generation, we can get a direct estimate of temporal genetic structure, i.e., a retrospective estimate. However, this estimate is problematic because of the phenotypic correlation of the trait of interest, flowering time, between dam and sire. We developed a novel retrospective method that isolates flowering time by holding the maternal contribution constant and sampled the pollen pool in eight open‐pollinated field plots throughout the flowering season.

KEY RESULTS:

We found temporal genetic structure for flowering time in seven of the eight field plots. Interestingly, the direct (retrospective) temporal structure estimate was 35% larger than the prospective estimate based on flowering schedules. Spatial clumping of pollen donors did not affect temporal structure, but structure intensified when heritability was experimentally enhanced.

CONCLUSIONS:

Temporal genetic structure, especially for flowering time, likely occurs in many plant populations and may be underestimated using a prospective method. We discuss the genome‐wide consequences of temporal genetic structure and the potential for adaptive temporal clines in plant populations.
Linking wood traits to vital rates in tropical rainforest trees: Insights from comparing sapling and adult wood
Authors: Osazuwa‐Peters Oyomoare L. , Wright S. Joseph , Zanne Amy E.
Published: October 2017

PREMISE OF THE STUDY:

Wood density is the top predictor of growth and mortality rates (vital rates) but with modest explanatory power at best. Stronger links to vital rates are expected if wood density is decomposed into its anatomical properties at sapling and adult stages, since saplings and adults differ in wood traits and vital rates. We examined whether anatomical determinants of wood density and strength of the relationship between wood traits and vital rates shift between saplings and adults.

METHODS:

Using wood segments from near pith (sapling) and near bark (adult) for 20 tree species (three adults each) from Barro Colorado Island, Panama, we quantified wood traits. Vital rates for saplings and adults were obtained from an earlier study.

KEY RESULTS:

Anatomical predictors of wood density were similar for sapling and adult wood, with wood density variation largely explained by fiber lumen area and fiber wall fraction. In sapling wood only, growth rates decreased with fiber wall fraction and increased with fiber lumen area, while mortality rates increased with vessel area but decreased with fiber wall fraction and vessel density.

CONCLUSIONS:

Wood traits of sapling trees provide functional insight into the growth–mortality tradeoff. Sapling wood with relatively large fiber lumen area and wide vessels, enabling faster hydraulic transport but less mechanical strength, is associated with fast growth and high mortality. Sapling wood with relatively more fiber wall and many narrow vessels, enabling greater mechanical strength but slower hydraulic transport, is associated with slow growth and low mortality.
The Pointing Self-calibration Algorithm for Aperture Synthesis Radio Telescopes
Authors: Bhatnagar S. , Cornwell T. J.
Published: October 2017

This paper is concerned with algorithms for calibration of direction-dependent effects (DDE) in aperture synthesis radio telescopes (ASRT). After correction of direction-independent effects (DIE) using self-calibration, imaging performance can be limited by the imprecise knowledge of the forward gain of the elements in the array. In general, the forward gain pattern is directionally dependent and varies with time due to a number of reasons. Some factors, such as rotation of the primary beam with Parallactic Angle for Azimuth–Elevation mount antennas are known a priori. Some, such as antenna pointing errors and structural deformation/projection effects for aperture-array elements cannot be measured a priori. Thus, in addition to algorithms to correct for DD effects known a priori, algorithms to solve for DD gains are required for high dynamic range imaging. Here, we discuss a mathematical framework for antenna-based DDE calibration algorithms and show that this framework leads to computationally efficient optimal algorithms that scale well in a parallel computing environment. As an example of an antenna-based DD calibration algorithm, we demonstrate the Pointing SelfCal (PSC) algorithm to solve for the antenna pointing errors. Our analysis show that the sensitivity of modern ASRT is sufficient to solve for antenna pointing errors and other DD effects. We also discuss the use of the PSC algorithm in real-time calibration systems and extensions for antenna Shape SelfCal algorithm for real-time tracking and corrections for pointing offsets and changes in antenna shape.
The Dependence of Convective Core Overshooting on Stellar Mass: A Semi-empirical Determination Using the Diffusive Approach with Two Different Element Mixtures
Authors: Claret Antonio , Torres Guillermo
Published: October 2017

Convective core overshooting has a strong influence on the evolution of stars of moderate and high mass. Studies of double-lined eclipsing binaries and stellar oscillations have renewed interest in the possible dependence of overshooting on stellar mass, which has been poorly constrained by observations so far. Here, we have used a sample of 29 well-studied double-lined eclipsing binaries in key locations of the H–R diagram to establish the explicit dependence of

on mass, where

is the free parameter in the diffusive approximation to overshooting. Measurements of the masses, radii, and temperatures of the binary components were compared against stellar evolution calculations based on the MESA code to infer semi-empirical values of

for each component. We find a clear mass-dependence such that

rises sharply from zero in the range

, and levels off thereafter up to the 4.4 

limit of our sample. Tests with two different element mixtures indicate the trend is the same, and we find it to also be qualitatively similar to the one established in our previous study with the classical step-function implementation of overshooting characterized by the free parameter

. Based on these measurements, we infer an approximate relationship between the two overshooting parameters of

, with a possible dependence on stellar properties.
The Chemical Abundance Structure of the Inner Milky Way: A Signature of “Upside-down” Disk Formation
Authors: Freudenburg Jenna K. C. , Weinberg David H. , Hayden Michael R. , Holtzman Jon A.
Published: October 2017

We present a model for the

distribution of stars in the inner Galaxy,

, measured as a function of vertical distance

from the midplane by Hayden et al. (H15). Motivated by an “upside-down” scenario for thick disk formation, in which the thickness of the star-forming gas layer contracts as the stellar mass of the disk grows, we combine one-zone chemical evolution with a simple prescription in which the scale-height of the stellar distribution drops linearly from

to

over a timescale t

c
, remaining constant thereafter. We assume a linear-exponential star formation history,

. With a star formation efficiency timescale

, an outflow mass-loading factor

,

, and

, the model reproduces the observed locus of inner disk stars in

and the metallicity distribution functions (MDFs) measured by H15 at

,

, and

. Substantial changes to model parameters lead to disagreement with the H15 data; for example, models with

or

fail to match the observed MDF at high-

and low-

, respectively. The inferred scale-height evolution, with z

h
(t) dropping on a timescale

at large lookback times, favors upside-down formation over dynamical heating of an initially thin stellar population as the primary mechanism regulating disk thickness. The failure of our short-t

c
models suggests that any model in which thick disk formation is a discrete event will not reproduce the continuous dependence of the MDF on

found by H15. Our scenario for the evolution of the inner disk can be tested by future measurements of the

-distribution and the age–metallicity distribution at

.
IL-17A–Induced PLET1 Expression Contributes to Tissue Repair and Colon Tumorigenesis
Authors: Zepp Jarod A. , Zhao Junjie , Liu Caini , Bulek Katazyna , Wu Ling , Chen Xing , Hao Yujun , Wang Zhenghe , Wang Xinxin , Ouyang Wenjun , Kalady Matthew F. , Carman Julie , Yang Wen-Pin , Zhu Jun , Blackburn Clare , Huang Yina H. , Hamilton Thomas A. , Su Bing , Li Xiaoxia
Published: October 2017

This study identifies a novel mechanism linking IL-17A with colon tissue repair and tumor development. Abrogation of IL-17A signaling in mice attenuated tissue repair of dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced damage in colon epithelium and markedly reduced tumor development in an azoxymethane/DSS model of colitis-associated cancer. A novel IL-17A target gene, PLET1 (a progenitor cell marker involved in wound healing), was highly induced in DSS-treated colon tissues and tumors in an IL-17RC–dependent manner. PLET1 expression was induced in LGR5+ colon epithelial cells after DSS treatment. LGR5+PLET1+ marks a highly proliferative cell population with enhanced expression of IL-17A target genes. PLET1 deficiency impaired tissue repair of DSS-induced damage in colon epithelium and reduced tumor formation in an azoxymethane/DSS model of colitis-associated cancer. Our results suggest that IL-17A–induced PLET1 expression contributes to tissue repair and colon tumorigenesis.
The International Register of Open Abdomen (IROA): An occasion to better understand the pediatric open abdomen -Preliminary results and call for pediatric intensive care participants
Authors: Coccolini Federico , Kaussen Torsten , Nacoti Mirco , Montori Giulia , Ceresoli Marco , Catena Fausto , Fugazzola Paola , Tomasoni Matteo , Salvetti Francesco , Sartelli Massimo , Agnoletti Vanni , Gamberini Emiliano , Bonanomi Ezio , Ansaloni Luca
Published: October 2017

In pediatric patients open abdomen (OA) is applied with many and not standardized indications. Several studies have been published regarding the OA management in adults and fewer in pediatrics. Several issues are still unclear and need more high quality data. The World Society of Emergency Surgery (WSES) promoted the International Register of Open Abdomen (IROA) dedicated to adults and pediatric patients. The register is held on a web platform (Clinical Registers®) through a dedicated web site: www.clinicalregisters.org. (ClinicalTrials. gov Identifier: NCT02382770).
Dryopteris filix-mas (Dryopteridaceae) leaves inhibit mouse uterine activity
Authors: Bafor Enitome E. , Omokaro Wellington O. , Uwumarongie Osamuyi H. , Elvis-Offiah Uloma B. , Omoruyi Osemelomen , Viegelmann Christina V. , Edrada-Ebel RuAngelie
Published: October 2017

Background: The plant Dryopteris filix-mas has been used traditionally for its uterine-stimulant effects.Aim: The current study is therefore aimed at investigating and determining the effect of the leaves of D. filix-mas on uterine contractility in vitro.Setting: Fresh leaves of D. filix-mas were collected from a river bank in the south-western part of Nigeria.Methods: The leaves of D. filix-mas were cleaned, dried and extracted in methanol. The extract (0.07 µg/mL–21.0 µg/mL) was tested on the isolated mouse uteri in order to determine activity on spontaneous-induced uterine contractions. Subsequently the extract (0.005 mg/mL and 0.05 mg/mL) was tested on oxytocin-induced contraction (0.00017 ng/mL–4.98 ng/mL) in calcium-containing media, submaximal oxytocin-induced contraction (0.116 ng/mL) in calcium-free media and in the presence of high KCl-induced uterine contractions (80 mM). The extract was also subjected to mass spectrometric determination of secondary metabolites.Results: The plant extract inhibited spontaneous-induced contractions with IC50 amplitude = 658.41 ng/mL ± 0.11 ng/mL and IC50 frequency = 175.32 ng/mL ± 0.53 ng/mL. The plant extract inhibited oxytocin-induced and high KCl-induced uterine contractions (p < 0.01 at 0.5 mg/mL). The plant extract had no effect on oxytocin-induced contractions under calcium-free conditions. Secondary metabolites belonging to classes of fatty acids, alkaloids, saponin glycosides, amino acids, limonoids, terpenes and porphyrins were identified.Conclusion: The current study reports an inhibitory effect of the plant on uterine contractility in this study, suggesting possible application as a tocolytic or as a contraceptive, as most contraceptive plants have shown uterine-relaxing effect.
Preferential Voting: Definition and Classification
Authors: Toplak Jurij
Published: October 2017

There is no single definition for ‘preferential voting’ or ‘preference voting’ since the terms are used for a number of different election systems and groups of such systems. They can be synonymous with the single-transferable vote, the alternative vote, open-list proportional representation, or the group of all ranking methods. This article offers an overview of the various definitions and classifications of preferential voting and other terms used in the literature to describe it. It proposes a common understanding of preferential voting. I suggest that preferentiality ought to be one of the characteristics by which electoral systems are evaluated. All election systems are preferential, though to varying degrees. I offer a classification of numerous electoral schemes according to their preferentiality.
Measuring Local Government Transparency. Influence of Political Sign in Multidimensional Analysis
Authors: Garrido-Rodríguez Juan Carlos , Zafra-Gómez José Luis , López-Hernández Antonio Manuel
Published: October 2017

During the last years, Transparency has become in a key element in the interaction between public administrations and society. However, this is a broad concept, which needs to be defined and measured carefully. Various authors have addressed this concept, from the perspective of different areas, through the creation of dichotomous indexes of transparency, but not measuring the quality of the information. In the present study, we propose a new method to measure the quality and content of municipal information disclosure, avoiding the creation of a synthetic index, highlighting the elements of transparency that provide optimal information, in quality and quantity. After that, we identify differences between local governments with different political ideologies, using multidimensional scaling analysis. The results obtained show that conservative governments grant more importance to transparency indicators, especially regarding legal and institutional information, than progressive ones.
Las leyes autónomas de la creación de la forma arquitectónica
Authors: Hidalgo Arellano José Ángel
Published: October 2017

La forma arquitectónica se presenta como un misterio desde el tiempo del proyecto hasta el tiempo de la historia. Aquí se reflexiona sobre su naturaleza a través de tres protagonistas: Loos, Mies y Lewerentz. La lógica de la función, la de la técnica y la del material son abordadas con el objetivo de revelar la condición de la forma arquitectónica: la obra de arquitectura surge de una manera autónoma a medida que el arquitecto presta atenta escucha a sus dictados. Se produce así, de forma natural, lo que se ha dado en llamar la manifestación de la arquitectura.
Regreso a la montaña. Hacia una nueva identidad del paisaje
Authors: Rivera Linares Javier
Published: October 2017

Los factores que definen la identidad del paisaje son amplios, variados y variables, pero sin duda la topografía ha tenido un papel relevante en su conformación. Por su fuerte presencia física, su papel estratégico y político o por sus longevos condicionantes místicos y religiosos que el ser humano le ha ido otorgando a lo largo de la historia, la montaña ha marcado la relación de los pobladores con sus distintos hábitats montañosos. Sin embargo, en la presente era global, la identidad del lugar se diluye cada vez más y los paisajes se homogeneizan en exceso, superponiéndose a las características topográficas intrínsecas que les confieren cualidad. El presente artículo, a través de una inspección del factor topográfico en la gestación de la identidad del paisaje y ejemplificado mediante una serie de proyectos de arquitectura del paisaje actuales, pretende demostrar la máxima de que una relectura de la topografía en el proyecto de paisajismo puede hacer virar el empobrecido panorama actual descrito. Así, una mirada al pasado, con el regreso a la montaña, ayuda a mirar al futuro, hacia una nueva identidad del paisaje.
Vivienda en Villarcayo, Burgos, España.
Authors: Arquitectos Pereda Pérez
Published: October 2017

Obra: Vivienda en Villarcayo, Burgos, Spain.

Arquitectos: Carlos Pereda Iglesias y Óscar Pérez Silanes. 

Fecha de proyecto y obra: 2007/9 y 2012/10
Vivienda unifamiliar en Pamplona, España
Authors: Arquitectos Pereda Pérez
Published: October 2017

Obra: Vivienda unifamiliar en Pamplona, España

Arquitectos: Carlos Pereda Iglesias y Óscar Pérez Silanes
Centro de día para el Valle de Losa, Burgos, España
Authors: Arquitectos Pereda Pérez
Published: October 2017

Obra: Centro de día para el Valle de Losa, Burgos, España

Arquitectos: Carlos Pereda Iglesias y Óscar Pérez Silanes

Fecha proyecto y fin de obra: 2015/02. En construcción

 
La Planta de Equivalencias. Mat-rooming.
Authors: Colmenares Silvia
Published: October 2017

Attention to the mechanisms by which certain architectural configurations are able to adapt to change defines a field of interest that has only been growing since the mid-twentieth century, after overcoming the exclusive dilemma between form and function. However, the influence of strategies based on the principle of free plan is still much greater than that of other proposals that are not based on the independence between supporting structure and distributive organization. The aim of this work is the definition of a genealogy for the idea of the plan of equivalents that is proposed as an alternative model of functional indifference, establishing a connection between the logics of pre-bourgeois domestic architecture and the most recent examples of programmatic experimentation in housing. The re-interpretation of some iteration techniques of elements developed in the 60s by the most critical generation with canonical modernity, together with the analysis of their associated operative vocabulary, will allow an outline to an approach of the inhabiting patterns based on the systematic proliferation of the room as a generic piece.
The Combined Effect of Chemical and Structural Factors on Pitting Corrosion Induced by MnS-(Cr, Mn, Al)O Duplex Inclusions
Authors: Man Cheng , Dong Chaofang , Xiao Kui , Yu Qiang , Li Xiaogang
Published: October 2017

In situ atomic force microscopy, scanning Kelvin probe force microscopy, and potential pulse technology were used to study the pitting behavior induced by inclusions in AM355 martensitic stainless steel. The MnS-(Cr, Mn, Al)O duplex inclusion exhibited the highest sensitivity to the pitting corrosion with respect to the individual MnS and (Cr, Mn, Al)O inclusions. When exposed to a solution containing Cl−, the selective dissolution occurred on the sulfide segment of the duplex inclusion, leading to trenching along the oxide part. The dissolution mechanism of MnS segment in the duplex inclusion is similar to the individual MnS inclusion. The Cr depletion in the boundary layer at the inclusion/metal interface promoted the transition from metastable to stable pitting corrosion in the duplex inclusion.
Salinity changes and anoxia resulting from enhanced runoff during the late Permian global warming and mass extinction event
Authors: van Soelen Elsbeth E. , Twitchett Richard J. , Kürschner Wolfram M.
Published: October 2017

Abstract. The Late Permian biotic crisis had a major impact on marine and terrestrial environments. Rising CO2 levels following Siberian Trap volcanic activity were likely responsible for expanding marine anoxia and elevated water temperatures. This study focusses on one of the stratigraphically most expanded Permian-Triassic records known, from Jameson land, east Greenland. High resolution sampling allows for a detailed reconstruction of the changing environmental conditions during the extinction event and the development of anoxic water conditions. Since very little is known about how salinity was affected during the extinction event, we especially focus on the aquatic palynomorphs and infer changes in salinity from changes in the assemblage and morphology. The extinction event, here defined by a peak in spore/pollen, indicating disturbance and vegetation destruction in the terrestrial environment, postdates a negative excursion in the total organic carbon, but predates the development of anoxia in the basin. Based on the newest estimations for sedimentation rates, the marine and terrestrial ecosystem collapse took between 1.6 to 8 kyrs, a much shorter interval than previously estimated. The palynofacies and palynomorph records show that the environmental changes can be explained by enhanced runoff, increased primary productivity and water column stratification. A lowering in salinity is supported by changes in the acritarch morphology. The length of the processes of the acritarchs becomes shorter during the extinction event and we propose that these changes are evidence for a reduction in salinity in the shallow marine setting of the study site. This inference is supported by changes in acritarch distribution, which suggest a change in palaeoenvironment from open marine conditions before the start of the extinction event to more near-shore conditions during and after the crisis. In a period of sea-level rise, such a reduction in salinity can only be explained by increased runoff. High amounts of both terrestrial and marine organic fragments in the first anoxic layers suggest that high runoff, increased nutrient availability, possibly in combination with soil erosion, are responsible for the development of anoxia in the basin. Enhanced runoff could result from changes in the hydrological cycle during the late Permian extinction event, which is a likely consequence of global warming. In addition, vegetation destruction and soil erosion may also have resulted in enhanced runoff. Salinity stratification could potentially explain the development of anoxia in other shallow marine sites. The input of fresh water and related changes in coastal salinity could also have implications for the interpretation of oxygen isotope records and sea water temperature reconstructions in some sites.
A modelling study of eddy-splitting by an island/seamount
Authors: Yang Shengmu , Xing Jiuxing , Chen Daoyi , Chen Shengli
Published: October 2017

Abstract. A mesoscale eddy's trajectory and its interaction with topography under the planetary β and nonlinear effects in the South China Sea are examined using the MIT General Circulation Model (MITgcm). Warm eddies propagate to the southwest while cold eddies propagate to the northwest. The propagation speed of both warm and cold eddies is about 2.4 km day−1 in the model. The eddy trajectory and its structure are affected by an island or a seamount, in particular, under certain conditions, the eddy may split during the interaction with an island/seamount. We focus this research on two parameters R and S (where R and S are two dimensionless parameters of the island size and submergence depth; R is the ratio of the island radius to the eddy radius, and S is the ratio of the seamount submergence depth to the eddy vertical length). The results of sensitivity experiments with varying island or seamount geometry indicate that the eddy would split in the qualitative range of 1∕4  <  R  <  2 and S  <  1∕5. The scale of the secondary eddy split-off decreases as the island diameter or the seamount submergence depth increases. In the splitting process, besides the off-spring eddy, there are also some filaments or eddies with opposite vorticity appearing around the eddy. Eddy-splitting, therefore, is an important way to transform energy from the mesoscale to sub-mesoscale in the ocean.
Analysis of crystallographic preferred orientations of experimentally deformed Black Hills Quartzite
Authors: Kilian Rüdiger , Heilbronner Renée
Published: October 2017

Abstract. The crystallographic preferred orientations (textures) of three samples of Black Hills Quartzite (BHQ) deformed experimentally in the dislocation creep regimes 1, 2 and 3 (according to Hirth and Tullis, 1992) have been analyzed using electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD). All samples were deformed to relatively high strain at temperatures of 850 to 915 °C and are almost completely dynamically recrystallized. A texture transition from peripheral [c] axes in regime 1 to a central [c] maximum in regime 3 is observed. Separate pole figures are calculated for different grain sizes, aspect ratios and long-axis trends of grains, and high and low levels of intragranular deformation intensity as measured by the mean grain kernel average misorientation (gKAM). Misorientation relations are analyzed for grains of different texture components (named Y, B, R and σ grains, with reference to previously published prism, basal, rhomb and σ1 grains). Results show that regimes 1 and 3 correspond to clear end-member textures, with regime 2 being transitional. Texture strength and the development of a central [c]-axis maximum from a girdle distribution depend on deformation intensity at the grain scale and on the contribution of dislocation creep, which increases towards regime 3. Adding to this calculations of resolved shear stresses and misorientation analysis, it becomes clear that the peripheral [c]-axis maximum in regime 1 is not due to deformation by basal 〈a〉 slip. Instead, we interpret the texture transition as a result of different texture forming processes, one being more efficient at high stresses (nucleation or growth of grains with peripheral [c] axes), the other depending on strain (dislocation glide involving prism and rhomb 〈a〉 slip systems), and not as a result of temperature-dependent activity of different slip systems.
Automated detection of ice cliffs within supraglacial debris cover
Authors: Herreid Sam , Pellicciotti Francesca
Published: October 2017

Abstract. Ice cliffs within a supraglacial debris cover have been identified as a source for high ablation relative to the surrounding debris-covered area. Due to their small relative size and steep orientation, ice cliffs are difficult to detect using nadir-looking space borne sensors. The method presented here uses surface slopes calculated from digital elevation model (DEM) data to map ice cliff geometry and produce an ice cliff probability map. Surface slope thresholds, which can be sensitive to geographic location and/or data quality, are selected automatically. The method also attempts to included area at the (often narrowing) ends of ice cliffs which could otherwise be neglected due to signal saturation in surface slope data. The method was calibrated in the Eastern Alaska Range, Alaska, USA, against a control ice cliff dataset derived from high resolution visible and thermal data. Using the same input parameter set that performed best in Alaska, the method was applied against ice cliffs manually mapped in the Khumbu Himal, Nepal. Our results suggest the method can accommodate different glaciological settings and different DEM data sources without a data intensive (high resolution, multi-data source) re-calibration.
Simulation of transient gusts on the NREL5 MW wind turbine using CFD
Authors: Länger-Möller Annika
Published: October 2017

Abstract. The performed work presents a procedure, implemented in the CFD-solver THETA, to propagate longitudinal transient gusts through a flow field by using a resolved gust approach. Both, the gust strike of a 1–cos()-gust and an extreme operating gust following the IEC-64100-1 standard, on the generic NREL 5MW wind turbine at rated operating conditions are investigated with CFD. The impact of both gusts on pressure distributions, rotor thrust, rotor torque, and flow states on the blade are examined and quantified. The flow states on the rotor blade before the gust strike and at maximum and minimum gust velocity are compared. An increased blade loading is detectable in the pressure coefficients and integrated blade loads. The friction force coefficients indicate the dynamic separation and re-attachment of the flow during the gust.