bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of introduction of α‐carboxylate, N‐methyl, and N‐formyl groups on intramolecular cyclization of o‐quinone amines: Density functional theory‐based study
Authors: Kishida Ryo , Saputro Adhitya Gandaryus , Arevalo Ryan Lacdao , Kasai Hideaki
Published: August 2017

o‐Quinone amines, which are relevant to various biological processes, can undergo spontaneous intramolecular cyclization (ring closure reaction by amino‐terminated hydrocarbon side chain) that deactivates them toward another possible reactions, that is, thiol binding. Density functional theory‐based calculation is employed for obtaining the potential energy curves along the CN bond formation in the intramolecular cyclization of various o‐quinone amines, viz., dopaminequinone, dopaquinone, N‐methyl‐dopaminequinone, N‐formyl‐dopaminequinone, and the corresponding methylene‐inserted analogues. The activation barrier is decreased by introduction of α‐carboxylate and N‐methyl group whereas increased by introduction of N‐formyl group. A negative correlation between the activation barriers and the level of highest occupied molecular orbital is pointed out. Furthermore, the methylene‐inserted analogues show decreased activation barriers. This is explained by reduction of steric repulsion in the transition state.
Preparation of large‐scale, durable, superhydrophobic PTFE films using rough glass templates
Authors: Zhu Yan , He Yin , Zhang Ji‐Fan , Li Zhen‐Hua , Zhou Wei , Yang De‐Quan , Sacher Edward
Published: August 2017

Large superhydrophobic polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) films, with good durability, were successfully prepared by a facile, low cost, environmentally friendly templating method, using a PTFE emulsion. For the first time, commercially available rough glass was employed as a reusable template. The results show that both the microstructure of the glass template and the concentration of the PTFE emulsion play important roles in the superhydrophobicity of the films. Commercially available, acid‐etched, rough glass is found to be an ideal template for such films, the superhydrophobicity increasing with decreasing emulsion concentration. Abrasive wear testing shows that superhydrophobic PTFE film, prepared under an optimal concentration of 5 wt% PTFE emulsion, has good abrasion resistance. Moreover, the results show that this method is suitable for the large‐scale preparation of superhydrophobic PTFE films. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
In situ chemical and morphological characterization of copper under near ambient reduction and oxidation conditions
Authors: Sezen H. , Al‐Hada M. , Amati M. , Gregoratti L.
Published: August 2017

By using spatially resolved photoelectron spectromicroscopy, we have investigated the formation of Cu(I) oxide phases when a bulk Cu foil is exposed to a near ambient pressure of molecular oxygen. The experiment was performed by using a novel cell for in operando measurements capable to overcome the so called ‘pressure gap’. We have found that the oxidation of Cu proceeds through the formation of Cu(I) oxide domains in the micron and submicron range size, the evolution of which affects the overall morphology of the Cu surface as well. Chemical and morphological changes have been simultaneously detected. It was, surprisingly, found that during the oxidation process in many areas domains having +1 valence state do not spread on the metallic regions which homogenously oxidize; no chemical oxidizing wave was detected by the available lateral resolution and time frame.
Estimation of smooth ROC curves for biomarkers with limits of detection
Authors: Bantis Leonidas E. , Yan Qingxiang , Tsimikas John V. , Feng Ziding
Published: August 2017

Protein biomarkers found in plasma are commonly used for cancer screening and early detection. Measurements obtained by such markers are often based on different assays that may not support detection of accurate measurements due to a limit of detection. TheROCcurve is the most popular statistical tool for the evaluation of a continuous biomarker. However, in situations where limits of detection exist, the empiricalROCcurve fails to provide a valid estimate for the whole spectrum of the false positive rate (FPR). Hence, crucial information regarding the performance of the marker in high sensitivity and/or high specificity values is not revealed. In this paper, we address this problem and propose methods for constructingROCcurve estimates for all possibleFPRvalues. We explore flexible parametric methods, transformations to normality, and robust kernel‐based and spline‐based approaches. We evaluate our methods though simulations and illustrate them in colorectal and pancreatic cancer data.
A joint modeling and estimation method for multivariate longitudinal data with mixed types of responses to analyze physical activity data generated by accelerometers
Authors: Li Haocheng , Zhang Yukun , Carroll Raymond J. , Keadle Sarah Kozey , Sampson Joshua N. , Matthews Charles E.
Published: August 2017

A mixed effect model is proposed to jointly analyze multivariate longitudinal data with continuous, proportion, count, and binary responses. The association of the variables is modeled through the correlation of random effects. We use a quasi‐likelihood type approximation for nonlinear variables and transform the proposed model into a multivariate linear mixed model framework for estimation and inference. Via an extension to the EM approach, an efficient algorithm is developed to fit the model. The method is applied to physical activity data, which uses a wearable accelerometer device to measure daily movement and energy expenditure information. Our approach is also evaluated by a simulation study.
A Low‐Cost NiO Hole Transfer Layer for Ohmic Back Contact to Cu2O for Photoelectrochemical Water Splitting
Authors: Wei Yijia , Chang Xiaoxia , Wang Tuo , Li Chengcheng , Gong Jinlong
Published: August 2017

Cuprous oxide (Cu2O) photocathode is reported as a promising candidate for photoelectrochemical water splitting. The p‐type Cu2O usually forms a Schottky junction with the conductive substrate due to its large work function, which blocks the collection of photogenerated holes. NiO is considered as one of the most promising hole transfer layers (HTL) for its high hole mobility, good stability, and easy processability to form a film by spin coating. The utilization of NiO HTL to form an Ohmic back contact to Cu2O is described, thus achieving a positive onset potential of 0.61 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode and a twofold increase of solar conversion efficiency.
The role of nongovernmental organizations in China's climate change governance
Authors: Liu Lei , Wang Pu , Wu Tong
Published: August 2017

Nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) have been a key player in international climate negotiations. In addition to being UNFCCC observers at the international level, the role of NGOs in domestic climate change governance has differed across countries due to varying political, legislative, and even cultural contexts. As the largest CO2 emitter in the world, China is engaged in the challenging process of low‐carbon development, which may not be achievable through exclusive reliance on top–down management and voluntary actions by the private sector. The participation of NGOs as a civil society actor is important. However, current understanding about the role of NGOs in China's climate change governance has been under‐studied. Climate change is still a relatively new topic for China's NGOs, and it has been difficult to differentiate the involvement of NGOs in climate change issues from their involvement in environmental issues more generally. Overall, the role NGOs play in China's climate change governance has had four main features: government partnership with restricted political space, organization development with inadequate professional capacity, strong international financial reliance but with growing domestic support, and public advocacy with low social recognition. WIREs Clim Change 2017, 8:e483. doi: 10.1002/wcc.483

This article is categorized under:

Policy and Governance > Private Governance of Climate Change
Developments in pseudo‐random number generators
Authors: Deng Lih‐Yuan , Bowman Dale
Published: August 2017

Monte Carlo simulations have become a common practice to evaluate a proposed statistical procedure, particularly when it is analytically intractable. Validity of any simulation study relies heavily on the goodness of random variate generators for some specified distributions, which in turn is based on the successful generation of independent variates from the uniform distribution. However, a typical computer‐generated pseudo‐random number generator (PRNG) is a deterministic algorithm and we know that no PRNG is capable of generating a truly random uniform sequence. Since the foundation of a simulation study is built on the PRNG used, it is extremely important to design a good PRNG. We review some recent developments on PRNGs with nice properties such as high‐dimensional equi‐distribution, efficiency, long period length, portability, and efficient parallel implementations. WIREs Comput Stat 2017, 9:e1404. doi: 10.1002/wics.1404

This article is categorized under:

Algorithms and Computational Methods > Random Number Generation
Stability analysis in spatial modeling of cell signaling
Authors: Getz Michael C. , Nirody Jasmine A. , Rangamani Padmini
Published: August 2017

Advances in high‐resolution microscopy and other techniques have emphasized the spatio‐temporal nature of information transfer through signal transduction pathways. The compartmentalization of signaling molecules and the existence of microdomains are now widely acknowledged as key features in biochemical signaling. To complement experimental observations of spatio‐temporal dynamics, mathematical modeling has emerged as a powerful tool. Using modeling, one can not only recapitulate experimentally observed dynamics of signaling molecules, but also gain an understanding of the underlying mechanisms in order to generate experimentally testable predictions. Reaction–diffusion systems are commonly used to this end; however, the analysis of coupled nonlinear systems of partial differential equations, generated by considering large reaction networks is often challenging. Here, we aim to provide an introductory tutorial for the application of reaction–diffusion models to the spatio‐temporal dynamics of signaling pathways. In particular, we outline the steps for stability analysis of such models, with a focus on biochemical signal transduction. WIREs Syst Biol Med 2018, 10:e1395. doi: 10.1002/wsbm.1395

This article is categorized under:

Biological Mechanisms > Cell Signaling

Analytical and Computational Methods > Dynamical Methods

Models of Systems Properties and Processes > Mechanistic Models
Cancer Counseling of Low‐Income Limited English Proficient Latina Women Using Medical Interpreters: Implications for Shared Decision‐Making
Authors: Kamara Daniella , Weil Jon , Youngblom Janey , Guerra Claudia , Joseph Galen
Published: August 2017

In cancer genetic counseling (CGC), communication across language and culture challenges the model of practice based on shared decision‐making. To date, little research has examined the decision‐making process of low‐income, limited English proficiency (LEP) patients in CGC. This study identified communication patterns in CGC sessions with this population and assessed how these patterns facilitate or inhibit the decision‐making process during the sessions. We analyzed 24 audio recordings of CGC sessions conducted in Spanish via telephone interpreters at two public hospitals. Patients were referred for risk of hereditary breast and ovarian cancer; all were offered genetic testing. Audio files were coded by two bilingual English‐Spanish researchers and analyzed using conventional content analysis through an iterative process. The 24 sessions included 13 patients, 6 counselors, and 18 interpreters. Qualitative data analyses identified three key domains – Challenges Posed by Hypothetical Explanations, Misinterpretation by the Medical Interpreter, and Communication Facilitators – that reflect communication patterns and their impact on the counselor's ability to facilitate shared decision‐making. Overall, we found an absence of patient participation in the decision‐making process. Our data suggest that when counseling LEP Latina patients via medical interpreter, prioritizing information with direct utility for the patient and organizing information into short‐ and long‐term goals may reduce information overload and improve comprehension for patient and interpreter. Further research is needed to test the proposed counseling strategies with this population and to assess how applicable our findings are to other populations.
Social exposure and emotion dysregulation: Main effects in relation to nonsuicidal self‐injury
Authors: Zelkowitz Rachel L. , Porter Andrew C. , Heiman Ellen R. , Cole David A.
Published: August 2017

We examined the relation of interpersonal and media exposure to nonsuicidal self‐injury (NSSI) among 340 university students in the southeastern United States (73.5% female, M age = 19.38 years, SD = 1.15). We also assessed interactions and main effects of each exposure and emotion dysregulation in relation to NSSI, testing the social learning hypothesis of NSSI. Most participants endorsed medium to high levels of exposure to NSSI via media sources. More than one‐third of participants were somewhat or very familiar with someone who engaged in NSSI. Almost half reported occasional or frequent conversations about NSSI. Both exposure forms were significantly related to NSSI history. However, hurdle regression analyses revealed that interpersonal exposure and emotion dysregulation, but not media exposure, were significantly associated with NSSI history and frequency. We did not find evidence for an emotion dysregulation‐by‐interpersonal‐exposure interaction. We discuss implications for theoretical models of NSSI, limitations, and future directions.
Relative impact of early versus late design decisions in systems development
Authors: Tan James J. Y. , Otto Kevin N. , Wood Kristin L.
Published: August 2017

To better understand the impact of early versus late design decisions, a study was undertaken on the root causes of missed requirements in new product development and their impact on development cost through rework activities. The context is the industrial development of unmanned aerial vehicles. The aim is to understand the occurrence rate of missed requirements, their root causes, and their relative impact. A quantitative approach of counting requirements changes and using engineering documentation enabled traceability from observation back to root cause origin. The development process was partitioned into sequential program segments, to categorize activities to before and after concept and design freeze. We found that there was a significant difference in the rate of design defects arising before and after concept freeze; and found there was a significantly higher number of corrective activities required for design defects arising earlier before concept freeze. The revision rate of concept phase decisions was over 50%, and the rework multiplier if detected late was over 10X. In combination, design decisions made before design freeze accounted for 86% of the total expected program cost, and 34% was determined before concept freeze. These results quantify and support the anecdotal 80–20 impact rule for design decisions.
COPING WITH CONFLICT: DEFENSIVE STRATEGIES AND CHRONIC WARFARE IN THE PREHISPANIC NAZCA REGION
Authors: McCool Weston C.
Published: August 2017

Warfare was a prevalent phenomenon throughout the Andes during the Late Intermediate period (LIP; AD 1000–1450). A salient research topic within broader investigations of conflict is how populations cope with chronic warfare. This article utilizes statistical and GIS-based analyses of architectural features and settlement patterns to reconstruct defensive coping mechanisms among groups living in 15 fortified settlements in the Nazca region of Peru. This research evaluates how populations deployed artificial defenses (fortifications), natural defensibility, and settlement placement to best protect themselves and critical resources from enemy incursions. Intersite variation in fortification was primarily driven by population size: the smallest and most vulnerable settlements were the most heavily fortified and occupied the least accessible areas. Variation in fortification investment within each site was driven by differences in the accessibility of approaches leading to the residential sector of a site. Settlement patterns were largely driven by natural defensibility, large viewsheds, and proximity to economic resources. This research demonstrates that LIP populations made optimal trade-offs between competing defensive variables, revealing highly patterned regional defensive strategies. Broader spatial, settlement, and architectural data indicate that warfare in the region was chronic and internecine.
Arginine and aerobic training prevent endothelial and metabolic alterations in rats at high risk for the development of the metabolic syndrome
Authors: Medeiros Renata F. , Gaique Thaiane G. , Bento-Bernardes Thais , Kindlovits Raquel , Gomes Tamiris M. B. , Motta Nadia Alice V. , Brito Fernanda Carla , Fernandes-Santos Caroline , Oliveira Karen J. , Nóbrega Antonio Claudio L.
Published: August 2017

Endothelial function is a key mechanism in the development of CVD. Arginine and exercise are important non-pharmacological strategies for mitigating the impact of metabolic changes in the metabolic syndrome, but the effect of their combined administration is unknown. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the isolated and combined effects of aerobic training and arginine supplementation on metabolic variables and vascular reactivity in rats at high risk for developing the metabolic syndrome. Wistar rats were divided into two groups: control and fructose (F – water with 10 % fructose). After 2 weeks, the F group was divided into four groups: F, fructose+arginine (FA, 880 mg/kg per d of l-arginine), fructose+training (FT) and fructose+arginine+training (FTA); treatments lasted for 8 weeks, and no difference was observed in body mass gain. Arginine did not improve the body protein content, and both the FA and FT groups show a reversal of the increase in adipose tissue. Insulin increase was prevented by training and arginine, without additive effect, and the increase in serum TAG was prevented only by training. The F group showed impaired endothelium-dependent vasodilation and hyperreactivity to phenylephrine, but arginine and training were capable of preventing these effects, even separately. Higher nitric oxide level was observed in the FA and FT groups, and no potentiating effect was detected. Thus, only training was able to prevent the increase in TAG and improve the protein mass, and training and arginine exert similar effects on fat content, insulin and endothelial function, but these effects are not additive.
Population dynamics of Eldana saccharina Walker (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae): application of a biophysical model to understand phenological variation in an agricultural pest
Authors: Kleynhans E. , Barton M.G. , Conlong D.E. , Terblanche J.S.
Published: August 2017

Understanding pest population dynamics and seasonal phenology is a critical component of modern integrated pest-management programs. Accurate forecasting allows timely, cost-effective interventions, including maximum efficacy of, for example, biological control and/or sterile insect technique. Due to the variation in life stage-related sensitivity toward climate, insect pest population abundance models are often not easily interpreted or lack direct relevance to management strategies in the field. Here we apply a process-based (biophysical) model that incorporates climate data with life stage-dependent physiology and life history to attempt to predict Eldana saccharina life stage and generation turnover in sugarcane fields. Fitness traits are modelled at two agricultural locations in South Africa that differ in average temperature (hereafter a cold and a warm site). We test whether the life stage population structures in the field entering winter and local climate during winter directly affect development rates, and therefore interact to determine the population dynamics and phenological responses of E. saccharina in subsequent spring and summer seasons. The model predicts that: (1) E. saccharina can cycle through more generations at the warm site where fewer hours of cold and heat stress are endured, and (2) at the cold site, overwintering as pupae (rather than larvae) confer higher relative fitness and fecundity in the subsequent summer adult moths. The model predictions were compared with a large dataset of field observations from scouting records. Model predictions for larval presence (or absence) generally overlapped well with positive (or negative) scout records. These results are important for integrated pest management strategies by providing a useful foundation for future population dynamics models, and are applicable to a variety of agricultural landscapes, but especially the sugarcane industry of South Africa.
Spatial and temporal distribution, environmental drivers and community structure of mosquitoes in the Kaipara Harbour, New Zealand
Authors: Cane R.P. , Hartley S. , Gradwell B. , Singe M.
Published: August 2017

Mosquito communities across the globe frequently comprise a mix of native and cosmopolitan species. New Zealand's mosquito communities are no exception. Here we describe the abundance, distribution and phenological patterns for a community of six mosquito taxa resident across the Kaipara Harbour region of northern New Zealand. Adult mosquitoes were sampled using baited light traps, serviced biweekly for 3½ years. Seasonal fluctuations in abundance of adults were examined for correlations with temperature and rainfall over the preceding weeks. Four endemic species comprised over 98% of the total catch, with Coquillettidia iracunda being the most abundant. Two introduced species, Aedes notoscriptus and Culex quinquefasciatus were widely distributed, but each comprised <1% of the total catch. Culiseta tonnoiri was the only species that appeared geographically restricted, occurring at one-third of the sites. Distinct temporal peaks in adult abundance were evident: Aedes antipodeus was most abundant in spring, Ae. notoscriptus and Cq. iracunda were most abundant in summer and Cx. quinquefasciatus was most abundant in autumn. Culiseta tonnoiri and Culex pervigilans were of variable abundance throughout the year. For all species examined, temporal variations in abundance were more strongly associated with temperature in the preceding weeks than with preceding rainfall. A better knowledge of the factors driving patterns of spatial and temporal abundance will allow an improved understanding of how non-native species may integrate themselves into resident mosquito communities.
REASON AND AUTHORITY IN ADMINISTRATIVE LAW
Authors: Grant James A.
Published: August 2017

In judicial review of administrative action, the pivotal distinction between decisions about “jurisdiction” (for the reviewing court) and “the merits of the case” (for the administrative decision maker) is a source of much confusion. This article argues that jurisdiction should be understood as the scope of legitimate authority, the best theory of which is Joseph Raz's service conception of authority. As well as explaining how to determine jurisdiction, this article explains that a legitimate authority's intra-vires decision “pre-empts” the reviewing court's judgment on the merits, and that the concept of jurisdiction precludes any standard of reasonableness for reviewing a legitimate authority.
THE NATURE AND SIGNIFICANCE OF THE RIGHT TO BODILY INTEGRITY
Authors: Herring Jonathan , Wall Jesse
Published: August 2017

This article seeks to explain and explore the concept of bodily integrity. The concept is often elided with autonomy in the case law and the academic literature. It argues that bodily integrity is non-reducible to the principle of autonomy. Bodily integrity relates to the integration of the self and the rest of the objective world. A breach of it, therefore, is significantly different to inteference in decisions about your body. This explains why interference with bodily integrity requires justification beyond what will suffice for an interference with autonomy. It also explores how this understanding of bodily integrity assists in understanding disability, gender and separated bodily material.
Immune responses induced by co-infection withCapillaria hepaticainClonorchis sinensis-infected rats
Authors: Moon E.-K. , Lee S.-H. , Goo T.W. , Quan F.-S.
Published: August 2017

Clonorchis sinensisandCapillaria hepaticaare zoonotic parasites that mainly infect the liver and cause serious liver disorders. However, immunological parameters induced by co-infection with these parasites remain unknown. In this study, for the first time, we investigated immunological profiles induced by co-infection withC. hepatica(CH) inC. sinensis(CS)-infected rats (Sprague–Dawley). Rats were infected primarily with 50 metacercariae ofC. sinensis; 4 weeks later, they were subsequently infected with 1000 infectiveC. hepaticaeggs. Significantly higher levels ofC. sinensis- orC. hepatica-specific IgG antibodies were found in the sera of rats. Interestingly, no cross-reacting antibody was observed betweenC. sinensisandC. hepaticainfections. Significantly raised eosinophil levels were found in the blood ofC. sinensis/C. hepaticaco-infected rats (CS + CH) compared to the blood of rats infected singly withC. sinensis. Co-infected rats showed significantly higher levels of lymphocyte proliferation and cytokine production compared to a singleC. sinensisinfection. The worm burden ofC. sinensiswas significantly reduced in co-infected rats compared to the singleC. sinensisinfection. These results indicate that the eosinophils, lymphocyte proliferation and cytokine production induced by subsequent infection withC. hepaticainC. sinensis-infected rats might contribute to the observedC. sinensisworm reduction.
The early Franciscan doctrine of divine immensity: Towards a middle way between classical theism and panentheism
Authors: Schumacher Lydia
Published: August 2017

Since Augustine, western medieval thinkers have largely identified ‘simplicity’ as the most fundamental feature of the divine nature. Although the western tradition of thinking about God has often been regarded as relatively continuous, I will demonstrate in this paper that a separate line of thought developed amongst early thirteenth-century Franciscan thinkers. This new tradition stressed God's immensity or infinity. In doing so, I will argue, it instigated a fundamental shift in the way of conceiving the nature of God that holds profound promise for reconciling factions in systematic theology today, particularly between classical theists and panentheists.
Evaluating outcomes of community-based conservation on Kenyan group ranches with remote sensing
Authors: WILLIAMS DAVID , THORNE JAMES H. , SUMBA DAUDI , MURUTHI PHILIP , GREGORY-MICHELMAN NATASHA
Published: August 2017

Conservationists have adopted community-based conservation (CBC) strategies to support landscape conservation programmes in East Africa, and these projects often involve community development assistance in exchange for a commitment to dedicating a portion of community lands for conservation management. There is, however, a dearth of empirical evidence assessing the effectiveness of CBC conservation programmes. This paper uses sub-metre-resolution satellite imagery to measure land-use change on four Kenyan group ranches that had created CBCs. Each ranch underwent a common participatory planning process that established a land-use plan involving three management zones: conservation, livestock grazing and settlement/cultivation. Using a satellite image time series, we recorded threat-based development – anthropogenic modification of natural areas and the density of structures – for each ranch. We found that CBCs with tourism lodges were more effective at controlling development than the CBCs without a lodge, particularly in the conservation zones and, to a lesser degree, in the grazing zones. We conclude that our use of very-high-resolution satellite imagery offers conservationists a cost-effective, fast and replicable approach to measuring CBC land-use change and that CBC projects can lead to positive conservation results.
Brucella suisbiovar 2 infection in humans in France: emerging infection or better recognition?
Authors: MAILLES A. , OGIELSKA M. , KEMICHE F. , GARIN-BASTUJI B. , BRIEU N. , BURNUSUS Z. , CREUWELS A. , DANJEAN M. P. , GUIET P. , NASSER V. , TOURRAND B. , VALOUR F. , MAURIN M. , O'CALLAGHAN D. , MICK V. , VAILLANT V. , JAY M. , LAVIGNE J. P. , DE VALK H.
Published: August 2017

Brucellosis is usually acquired by humans through contact with infected animals or the consumption of raw milk from infected ruminants.Brucella suisbiovar 2 (BSB2) is mainly encountered in hares and wild boars (Sus scrofa), and is known to have very low pathogenicity to humans with only two case reports published in the literature. Human cases of brucellosis caused by BSB2 were identified through the national mandatory notification of brucellosis. The identification of the bacterium species and biovar were confirmed by the national reference laboratory. Epidemiological data were obtained during medical follow-up visits. Seven human cases were identified between 2004 and 2016, all confirmed by the isolation of BSB2 in clinical specimens. All patients had direct contact with wild boars while hunting or preparing wild boar meat for consumption. Five patients had chronic medical conditions possibly responsible for an increased risk of infection. Our findings suggest that BSB2 might be an emerging pathogen in hunters with massive exposure through the dressing of wild boar carcasses. Hunters, especially those with chronic medical conditions, should be informed about the risk of BSB2 infection and should receive information on protective measures.
AGB and post-AGB objects in the outer Galaxy
Authors: Szczerba Ryszard , Yung Bosco H. K. , Sewiło Marta , Siódmiak Natasza , Karska Agata
Published: August 2017

We present the results of our search for low- and intermediate mass evolved stars in the outer Galaxy using AllWISE catalogue photometry. We show that the [3.4]−[12] vs. [4.6]−[22] colour-colour diagram is most suitable for separating C-rich/O-rich AGB and post-AGB star candidates. We are able to select 2,510 AGB and 24,821 post-AGB star candidates. However, the latter are severely mixed with the known young stellar objects in this diagram.
[WN] central stars of planetary nebulae
Authors: Todt H. , Miszalski B. , Toalá J. A. , Guerrero M. A.
Published: August 2017

While most of the low-mass stars stay hydrogen-rich on their surface throughout their evolution, a considerable fraction of white dwarfs as well as central stars of planetary nebulae have a hydrogen-deficient surface composition. The majority of these H-deficient central stars exhibit spectra very similar to massive Wolf-Rayet stars of the carbon sequence, i.e. with broad emission lines of carbon, helium, and oxygen. In analogy to the massive Wolf-Rayet stars, they are classified as [WC] stars. Their formation, which is relatively well understood, is thought to be the result of a (very) late thermal pulse of the helium burning shell. It is therefore surprising that some H-deficient central stars which have been found recently, e.g. IC 4663 and Abell 48, exhibit spectra that resemble those of the massive Wolf-Rayet stars of the nitrogen sequence, i.e. with strong emission lines of nitrogen instead of carbon. This new type of central stars is therefore labelled [WN]. We present spectral analyses of these objects and discuss the status of further candidates as well as the evolutionary status and origin of the [WN] stars.
Planetary Nebulae in the UWISH2 Galactic Plane survey
Authors: Gledhill T. M. , Froebrich D.
Published: August 2017

UWISH2 is the first unbiassed imaging survey of v =1 − 0 S(1) molecular hydrogen emission (λ = 2.122~μm) in the northern Galactic Plane. Here we discuss 284 extended emission line objects which we consider to be candidate planetary or pre-planetary nebulae. Some are clearly associated with known PN, but the majority (60%) have no previous detection. We have classified the objects according to morphology and find 53% are bipolar with half of these being new detections. The remaining objects are mostly elliptical/round (35%), fainter than the median sample flux (4.4 × 10−17 W m−2) and previously undetected (74%).
Exploiting the HASH Planetary Nebula Research Platform
Authors: Parker Quentin A. , Bojičić Ivan , Frew David J.
Published: August 2017

The HASH (Hong Kong/ AAO/ Strasbourg/ Hα) planetary nebula research platform is a unique data repository with a graphical interface and SQL capability that offers the community powerful, new ways to undertake Galactic PN studies. HASH currently contains multi-wavelength images, spectra, positions, sizes, morphologies and other data whenever available for 2401true, 447likely, and 692possibleGalactic PNe, for a total of 3540 objects. An additional 620 Galactic post-AGB stars, pre-PNe, and PPN candidates are included. All objects were classified and evaluated following the precepts and procedures established and developed by our group over the last 15 years. The complete database contains over 6,700 Galactic objects including the many mimics and related phenomena previously mistaken or confused with PNe. Curation and updating currently occurs on a weekly basis to keep the repository as up to date as possible until the official release of HASH v1 planned in the near future.
Gaseous abundances in planetary nebulae: What have we learned in the past five years?
Authors: Delgado-Inglada Gloria
Published: August 2017

Nearly 50 years ago, in the proceedings of the first IAU symposium on planetary nebulae, Lawrence H. Aller and Stanley J. Czyzak said that “the problem of determination of the chemical compositions of planetary and other gaseous nebulae constitutes one of the most exasperating problems in astrophysics”. Although the situation has greatly improved over the years, many important problems are still open and new questions have arrived to the field, which still is an active field of study. Here I will review some of the main aspects related to the determination of gaseous abundances in PNe and some relevant results derived in the last five years, since the last IAU symposium on PNe.
Analysis of the X-ray spectrum of the hot bubble of BD+30°3639
Authors: Schönberner Detlef , Jacob Ralf , Heller René , Steffen Matthias
Published: August 2017

We developed a model for wind-blown bubbles with temperature and density profiles based on self-similar solutions including thermal conduction. We constructed also heat-conduction bubbles with chemical discontinuities. The X-ray emission is computed using the well-documented CHIANTI code (v6.0.1). These bubble models are used to (re)analyse the high-resolution X-ray spectrum of the hot bubble of BD+30°3639, and they appeared to be much superior to constant temperature approaches.

We found for the X-ray emission of BD+30°3639 that temperature-sensitive and abundance-sensitive line ratios computed on the basis of heat-conducting wind-blown bubbles and with abundances as found in the stellar photosphere/wind can only be reconciled with the observations if the hot bubble of BD+30°3639 is chemically stratified, i.e. if it contains also a small mass fraction (≃ 3 %) of hydrogen-rich matter immediately behind the conduction front. Neon appears to be strongly enriched, with a mass fraction of at least about 0.06.
Herschel Planetary Nebula Survey (HerPLaNS): Construction of a Detailed Dusty Photoionization Model of NGC6781
Authors: Otsuka Masaaki , Ueta Toshiya , Chu You-Hua , Asano Kentaro ,   HerPLaNS consortium
Published: August 2017

As one of the follow-up studies of Herschel Planetary Nebula Survey (HerPlaNS; Ueta et al. 2014), we focus on a bipolar planetary nebula (PN) NGC6781 to characterize the dusty nebula and the central star based on our own Herschel data and the rich archival spectroscopic/photometric image data in the wavelengths from UV to far-IR. With CLOUDY, we constructed a comprehensive photoionization model of NGC6781 ever made including data from UV to radio. We succeeded to reproduce the observed spectral energy distribution (SED) and the atomic gas, H2, CO, and OH molecular line fluxes. We found that about 40% of the total dust mass would be from warm-cold dust components.
The evolution of the oxygen abundance radial gradient in the Milky Way Galaxy disk
Authors: Mollá Mercedes , Cavichia Oscar , Costa Roberto D. D. , Maciel Walter J. , Gibson Brad , Díaz Angeles I
Published: August 2017

We review the state of our chemical evolution models for spiral and low mass galaxies. We analyze the consequences of using different stellar yields, infall rate laws and star formation prescriptions in the time/redshift evolution of the radial distributions of abundances, and other quantities as star formation rate or gas densities, in the Milky Way Galaxy; In particular we will study the evolution of the oxygen abundance radial gradient analyzing its relation with the ratio SFR/infall. We also compare the results with our old chemical evolution models, cosmological simulations and with the existing data, mainly with the planetary nebulae abundances.
Mass transfer in asymptotic-giant-branch binary systems
Authors: Chen Zhuo , Frank Adam , Blackman Eric G. , Nordhaus Jason , Carroll-Nellenback Jonathan
Published: August 2017

Binary stars can interact via mass transfer when one member (the primary) ascends onto a giant branch. The amount of gas ejected by the binary and the amount of gas accreted by the secondary over the lifetime of the primary influence the subsequent binary phenomenology. Some of the gas ejected by the binary will remain gravitationally bound and its distribution will be closely related to the formation of planetary nebulae. We investigate the nature of mass transfer in binary systems containing an AGB star by adding radiative transfer to the AstroBEAR AMR Hydro/MHD code.
3D morphology of the PN IRAS 18333-2357
Authors: Muthumariappan C.
Published: August 2017

We analysed the Spitzer 8μm and WISE 22μm images of the PN IRAS 18333-2357 using a 3D RT code. We describe its morphology with a H-poor disk and a spherical shell around it.
Using u band emission to trace star formation rates of galaxies
Authors: Zhou Zhimin
Published: August 2017

Star formation rate (SFR) is one of the most important diagnostics in understanding the evolution of galaxies across cosmic times. In order to explore the possibility of using the optical u-band luminosities to estimate SFRs of galaxies, we show the correlations between u band, Hα and infrared luminosities by combing the data from the South Galactic Cap u band Sky Survey (SCUSS) with the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) and the Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer (WISE). We derive the u versus Hα relation and the u and 12 μm relations to calibrate the u-band luminosity as an SFR indicator.
Dust in planetary nebulae
Authors: Sloan G. C.
Published: August 2017

Infrared spectra from the Spitzer Space Telescope trace the evolution of carbon-rich dust from the asymptotic giant branch (AGB) to young planetary nebulae (PNe). On the AGB, amorphous carbon dominates the dust, but SiC and MgS also appear. In more evolved systems with warmer central stars, the spectra reveal the unidentified 21 μm feature, features from aliphatic hydrocarbons, and spectra from polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), often with shifted feature positions indicative of the presence of aliphatics. More evolved systems with hot central stars show more typical PAH spectra, along with fullerenes and/or an emission feature known as the big-11 feature at ~11 μm. This features arises from a combination of SiC and PAHs, and it is usually accompanied by a shoulder at 18 μm, which while unidentified might be from cool silicate grains. The strong emission from MgS and SiC in young PNe probably arises from coatings on carbonaceous grains.
Mapping the Physical and Chemical Conditions of the Ring Nebula
Authors: Leal-Ferreira Marcelo L. , Aleman Isabel , Gaughan Andrea , Ladjal Djazia , Ueta Toshiya , Kerber Samuel , Conn Blair , Gardiner Rhiannon , Tielens Alexander G. G. M.
Published: August 2017

We observed the Planetary Nebula NGC 6720 with the Gemini Telescope and the Gemini Multi-Object Spectrographs. We obtained spatial maps of 36 emission-lines in the wavelength range between 3600 Å and 9400 Å. We derived maps of c(Hβ), electronic densities, electronic temperatures, ionic and elemental abundances, and Ionization Correction Factors (ICFs) in the source and investigated the mass-loss history of the progenitor. The elemental abundance results indicate the need for ICFs based on three-dimensional photoionization models.
The Hong Kong/AAO/Strasbourg Hα (HASH) Planetary Nebula Database
Authors: Bojičić Ivan S. , Parker Quentin A. , Frew David J.
Published: August 2017

The Hong Kong/AAO/Strasbourg Hα (HASH) planetary nebula database is an online research platform providing free and easy access to the largest and most comprehensive catalogue of known Galactic PNe and a repository of observational data (imaging and spectroscopy) for these and related astronomical objects. The main motivation for creating this system is resolving some of long standing problems in the field e.g. problems with mimics and dubious and/or misidentifications, errors in observational data and consolidation of the widely scattered data-sets. This facility allows researchers quick and easy access to the archived and new observational data and creating and sharing of non-redundant PN samples and catalogues.
Improving Comprehension in Written Medical Informed Consent Procedures
Authors: Schatz Tanja , Haberstroh Julia , Bindel Kerstin , Oswald Frank , Pantel Johannes , Paulitsch Michael , Konopik Nadine , Knopf Monika
Published: August 2017

Abstract. Older adults are frequently required to undergo medical informed consent procedures. This study investigates the influence of four types of written language and visual support (Elaborated Plain Language, Easy-to-Read Language, Standard Version with additional picture, Easy-to-Read-Language with additional picture) on comprehension and affect, compared with the Standard Version alone. In an online survey, n = 87 younger participants aged 26–59 and n = 72 older participants aged 60–81 read a simulation of an informed consent form. Directly after reading it, we used the Understanding dimension of the MacArthur Competence Assessment Tool for Treatment (MacCAT-T) to ask them about the information presented in the form. The results showed that, by reducing complexity and elaborating the provided information, comprehension of medical information could be improved in the older participant group. In the so-called Elaborated Plain Language groups, the results were the same for younger and older participants. This was not true for the groups that received the Standard Version, on which younger participants performed better. Variations in the language used had no influence on affect. Our conclusion is that Elaborated Plain Language can be recommended for use in medical informed consent procedures with older patients and should be taught to medical professionals.
Networks of Depression and Cognition in Elderly Psychiatric Patients
Authors: Semino Laura , Marksteiner Josef , Brauchle Gernot , Danay Erik
Published: August 2017

Abstract. Objective: Applying the network approach to explore connections between depression and cognition in dependency on cognitive status. Methods: 264 patients from a ward for geriatric psychiatry with depressive symptoms and/or cognitive impairment were included in the study. Assessments of neuropsychological functioning (CERAD, TMT, Clock) and depression (Geriatric Depression Scale) were used. Results: “Hopelessness” and “loss of energy” are the most pivotal nodes in the depression network. Various connections were found when cognitive status differed. “Social withdrawal” connects depression and cognition in the noncognitively impaired group and “subjective memory complaints” and “anxiety” in the cognitively impaired group. Conclusions: Network analyses provide new insights into the complexity of associations. Practical implications for targeted clinical interventions on the connection points are discussed.
Dispositional and Situational Emotion Regulation in Younger and Older Adults
Authors: Hofer Matthias , Allemand Mathias
Published: August 2017

Abstract. Younger and older adults (N = 207) viewed a film scene eliciting strong negative emotions and then indicated how they had regulated their emotions. Dispositional emotion regulation was measured prior to stimulus presentation. Older adults showed higher levels of dispositional suppression than younger adults. Furthermore, individual differences in dispositional expressive suppression were predictive of reappraisal and suppression in the given situation. However, dispositional suppression was more strongly related to situational suppression among older adults than among younger adults. Future directions concerning the importance of and possible implications for age differences in coping with stressful situations are discussed.
Physical Activity and Depressive Mood in the Daily Life of Older Adults
Authors: Gruenenfelder-Steiger Andrea E. , Katana Marko , Martin Annika A. , Aschwanden Damaris , Koska Julia L. , Kündig Yvonne , Pfister-Lipp Eliane , Allemand Mathias
Published: August 2017

Abstract. Empirical evidence suggests that physical activity is related to less depressive moods. However, little is known about this association in the everyday life of older adults, limiting the ecological validity of prior findings. This study examined within-person associations between physical activity and depressive mood in older adults across 7 days. Moreover, the study tested the extent to which need-fulfillment can explain this association. The sample consisted of 68 adults aged 65 to 93 years. Physical activity was assessed objectively with accelerometers, whereas need-fulfillment and depressive mood were assessed at the end of each day using self-reports. Results from multilevel analysis suggest that daily physical activity was negatively related to daily depressive mood within persons. Although need-fulfillment did not explain the association between physical activity and depressive mood, it was a statistically significant predictor of daily depressive mood and even attenuated the effect of physical activity on depressive mood to nonsignificance.
Hyperaktive oder emotionale Verhaltensprobleme in Lernsituationen beachten
Authors: Rittsteiger Petra , Eder-Neuhauser Carola
Published: August 2017

Zusammenfassung. In diesem praxisorientierten Beitrag werden die Ergebnisse aus einer Fragebogenerhebung mit dem Verfahren SDQ-Deu in Hinblick auf die Bedeutung für pädagogische Förder- und Therapiemaßnahmen bei lese, rechtschreib- und/oder rechenschwachen Kindern bzw. für das schulische und häusliche Setting diskutiert. Dafür wurden 420 Volksschulkinder aus 39 Salzburger Schulen nach Abschluss der Grundstufe I, also zu Beginn der dritten Klasse, mit einer standardisierten Testbatterie in den Bereichen Lesen, Rechtschreiben und Rechnen untersucht. Zusätzlich wurde mithilfe von Bewertungen der Bezugspersonen der Schüler/innen (Eltern und Lehrer/innen; N = 309) das emotionale und hyperaktive Verhalten der Kinder erfasst. Die Ergebnisse lassen vermuten, dass gerade Kinder mit Schwierigkeiten im Lesen, Rechtschreiben und Rechnen häufig auch Auffälligkeiten im emotionalen und hyperaktiven Verhalten zeigen.