bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interpretando a Contabilidade Pública em Portugal
Authors: Gonçalves Miguel , Correia Claúdio , Marques Maria Da Conceição da Costa
Published: September 2017

O Plano Oficial de Contabilidade das Autarquias Locais (POCAL) encontra-se em vigor em Portugal há oito anos. O anuário financeiro dos municípios portugueses, baseado nas contas das 308 autarquias nacionais, é um documento de inegável valor para a análise da informação agregada dos municípios sobre a sua situação orçamental, financeira, económica e patrimonial. Nestes termos, o estudo sintetiza os resultados de um trabalho de investigação cujo principal objectivo foi o de cotejar a informação proporcionada pelo último anuário financeiro (de 2008), com aquela apresentada por um município em particular — Oliveira do Hospital (distrito de Coimbra). Com base num conjunto de indicadores procurou-se efectuar uma comparação com os parâmetros médios nacionais. As fontes de informação referem-se aos principais documentos de reporte, relativos a 2007, 2008 e 2009, recolhidos por meio de requerimento dirigido ao Presidente da Câmara Municipal e a dados do Instituto Nacional de Estatística. A metodologia implicou o tratamento, a agregação e o confronto da informação do município com a do anuário financeiro de 2008. Os resultados indicam que a autarquia parece dar preferência à informação orçamental em detrimento da patrimonial, económica e financeira.
Benefits and Challenges of Developing a Customized Rubric for Curricular Review of a Residency Program in Laboratory Animal Medicine
Authors: Whitcomb Tiffany L. , Wilson Ronald P.
Published: September 2017

Rigorous curricular review of post-graduate veterinary medical residency programs is in the best interest of program directors in light of the requirements and needs of specialty colleges, graduate school administrations, and other stakeholders including prospective students and employers. Although minimum standards for training are typically provided by specialty colleges, mechanisms for evaluation are left to the discretion of program directors. The paucity of information available describing best practices for curricular assessment of veterinary medical specialty training programs makes resources from other medical fields essential to informing the assessment process. Here we describe the development of a rubric used to evaluate courses in a 3-year American College of Laboratory Animal Medicine (ACLAM)-recognized residency training program culminating in a Master of Science degree. This rubric, based on examples from medical education and other fields of graduate study, provided transparent criteria for evaluation that were consistent with stakeholder needs and institutional initiatives. However, its use caused delays in the curricular review process as two significant obstacles to refinement were brought to light: variation in formal education in curriculum design and significant differences in teaching philosophies among faculty. The evaluation process was able to move forward after institutional resources were used to provide faculty development in curriculum design. The use of a customized rubric is recommended as a best practice for curricular refinement for residency programs because it results in transparency of the review process and can reveal obstacles to change that would otherwise remain unaddressed.
Using Spreadsheets to Teach Data Encryption Techniques
Authors: Simkin Mark G.
Published: September 2017

There are a variety of reasons why understanding encryption technology is likely to become increasingly important in the future, and therefore why accounting courses are likely to include encryption materials in future curricula. This paper discusses five encryption techniques: transposition ciphers, cyclic substitution ciphers, Vigenere ciphers, exclusive OR ciphers, and permutation ciphers. Accompanying these discussions are explanations of how instructors can demonstrate these techniques with spreadsheet models. The author's experiences with such models in classroom use have been uniformly positive.
Should Informatics Be the Theoretical Paradigm of AIS? A Panel Discussion of AIS Researchers
Authors: Krippel Greg , Moody Janette , Barra Roberta , Stone Dan , White Clinton E.
Published: September 2017

Some have argued that the absence of a unifying theory has limited the contribution of Accounting Information Systems (AIS) to accounting research and practice. Hunton (2006) proposed the Science of Informatics as a unifying theory. Informatics is an interdisciplinary science that studies the representation, processing and communication of information in natural and artificial systems. The panel discussion, “Informatics: Should This Be the Next Theoretical Paradigm for AIS?”, held at the 2007 AIS Educator Conference, explores this topic. Some panelists expressed concern about the effect on accounting software design and on publishing in top journals of adopting informatics as a theoretical foundation. Others suggested that informatics could provide legitimacy by linking AIS research to the mainstream accounting research. Some panelists believed that an informatics foundation would better position AIS research relative to accounting research and increase funding. Consensus opinion noted the value of more research into the contribution of informatics as a theoretical foundation for AIS. This paper briefly reviews the Science of Informatics, summarizes the panel discussion, and concludes with suggestions for integrating informatics into AIS education.
'n Ondersoek na taalprobleme by leergestremde kinders
Authors: De Koker Elize
Published: September 2017

Hierdie studie ondersoek met behulp van die Toets vir Mondelinge Taalproduksie (TMT) (Vorster 1980), die taalvermoens van 'n groep van 30 leergestremde kinders. Resultate het getoon dat, wat betref mondelinge taalproduksie, die eksperimentele leergestremde groep betekenisvol swakker as die normgroep presteer. Die voorkoms en aard van betrokke taalprobleme, asook die nut van die TMT vir gebruik by leergestremde kinders, word bespreek.
Biofeedback and stuttering
Authors: Gordon E. , Gordon A. , Gordon L. , Shapiro M. , Mentis M. , Suchet M.
Published: September 2017

Electromyographic biofeedback was used to reduce tension and enhance control of the speech associated muscles, resulting in a reduction of the frequency of stuttering. Five sessions were conducted over a course of three weeks. A mild, moderate and severe stutterer were assessed. A decrease in stuttering frequency was seen in each subject from pre to post biofeedback sessions on both a descriptive and an inferential level.
Spike-Layer Simulation for Steady-State Coupled Schrödinger Equations
Authors: Liao Liming , Ji Guanghua , Tang Zhongwei , Zhang Hui
Published: September 2017

An adaptive finite element method is adopted to simulate the steady state coupled Schrödinger equations with a small parameter. We use damped Newton iteration to solve the nonlinear algebraic system. When the solution domain is elliptic, our numerical results with Dirichlet or Neumann boundary conditions are consistent with previous theoretical results. For the dumbbell and circular ring domains with Dirichlet boundary conditions, we obtain some new results that may be compared with future theoretical analysis.
Kongsberg Vision Meeting 2011: Abstracts
Authors: Baraas Rigmor C. , Einevoll Gaute T.
Published: September 2017

Kongsberg Vision Meeting was arranged at Buskerud University College in Kongsberg for the fourth time on December 2, 2011. Rigmor C. Baraas and Gaute T. Einevoll organized the meeting. Keynote speakers were Marianne Fyhn from the University of Oslo (Norway) and Almut Kelber from Lund University (Sweden). The abstracts from the talks are presented in the order they were given.
Hansen’s disease with Lucio’s phenomenon in a country in the post elimination era: A case report
Authors: Pardo Santiago Sánchez , Cabeza Luis Daniel , Díaz Andrés Ochoa , Figueroa Claudia Lucia , Mantilla Julio Cesar
Published: September 2017

Leprosy is defined as a chronic granulomatous bacterial infection that affects the skin and peripheral nerves caused by the obligate intracellular bacillus Mycobacterium leprae. According to the 2015 World Health Organization reports, there were 587 prevalent cases and 423 new cases, of the latter 73% were multibacillary, predominantly in the departments of Santander and Boyacá (Colombia). Lucio’s phenomenon was first described in 1852 by Rafael Lucio, in collaboration with Alvarado. The Lucio’s phenomenon is relatively rare and none have been reported in Colombia about it, as reference, in South America, Brazil has reported approximately 11 cases since 2000.We present a rare case of Lucio’s phenomenon in a country where leprosy is considered as eradicate which represents a diagnostic challenge, of a disease that continues with increasing incidence rates in a country considered in the post-elimination stage.
Authenticity of Classical Arabic and its relation to Aristotelian Logic (In the opinions of some orientalists and Arab scholars)
Authors: Shamsuddin Salahuddin Mohd. , Ahmad Siti Sara Binti Hj.
Published: September 2017

Classical Arabic was originated in the family of Semitic languages as a result of mixing among the languages of thepeople who lived in the Arabian Peninsula. Nobody knows the exact time of its emergence. We had some knowledgeby some stone monuments and oral histories indicated that some distinct languages were in the south and north of theArabian island. Some of their images remained for us that were sometimes seen in some Arabic dialects later in theaspects of their expression, derivation and synonymous words. The age of this classical Arabic is mentioned byal-Jāḥiẓ in his book: “The Animal”, which is between 150-200 years before Islam.There is no doubt that Arabic Language has evolved through the ages and has become a standard language after itwas audible, especially when it established its linguistic bases to protect its originality and Arab nature from themelody entered from the non-Arabs who accepted Islam, after the mixing among Arab Muslims and the other people.It is true that Arabs had used the Aristotelian logic in the development of their linguistic sciences, but their Arabicwas not affected by the Aristotelian logic and their Arab culture did not lose its originality and nature.
Aktywizacja turystyczna polskiej wsi
Authors: Staszewska Sylwia , Dajek Olga , Micek Michał
Published: September 2017

Cel. Analiza i ocena wartości polskiej przestrzeni wiejskiej, która ma lub może mieć wpływ na aktywizację turystyczną. Poruszono zagadnienia odnoszące się do wartości obszarów wiejskich, motywów uprawiania turystyki oraz form turystyki. Opisano zmiany funkcjonalno-przestrzenne wywołane wzmożonym zainwestowaniem turystycznym i zintensyfikowanym ruchem poznawczo- wypoczynkowym. Teoretyczne rozważania poparto przykładami. Metoda. Badania oparto na wynikach projektu pt. „Sieć Najciekawszych Wsi” (szczegóły na www.psorw.odnowawsi.pl). SNW ma być markowym produktem turystycznym i sposobem na zachowanie najcenniejszych walorów materialnego dziedzictwa, autentyzmu wiejskiej przestrzeni oraz form życia mieszkańców wsi. Każda z 50 wsi, we wspomnianym projekcie, otrzymała ocenę ekspercką opartą na Karcie Oceny Miejscowości. Oceny dokonano analizując zasób wsi, specyfikę wsi oraz klimat miejsca. Wyniki prezentowane w niniejszym artykule pochodzą z ocen 7 wsi położonych w woj. lubuskim i wielkopolskim. Wyniki. Działania aktywizujące obszary wiejskie wpływają korzystnie i niekorzystnie na ich rozwój. Efekty pozytywne uwidaczniają się w poprawnych relacjach społecznych, we wzmożonej przedsiębiorczości oraz kreatywności i twórczości mieszkańców. Negatywne ukazują nadmierną koncentrację zabudowy, jej izolację, zajmowanie obszarów cennych przyrodniczo i krajobrazowo oraz znaczną konsumpcję przestrzeni. Należy rozważnie wykorzystywać potencjał wsi do jej turystycznego rozwoju. Ograniczenia badań i wnioskowania. Badania empiryczne dotyczą wyłącznie polskich obszarów wiejskich i ich potencjału wpływającego na aktywizację turystyczną. Implikacje praktyczne. Podejście badawczo-analityczne ukazuje narzędzia i sposób określania potencjału turystycznego wsi, które mogą być wykorzystywane przez władze samorządowe. Pokazuje nowe produkty turystyczne i wartości, z których można czerpać kształtując owe produkty. Oryginalność. W publikacjach z zakresu turystki opis dotyczący prezentowanego tu produktu turystycznego jeszcze się nie pojawił. Podejście badawcze autora – urbanisty-geografa – wnosi odmienny sposób analizy i rozumowania wartości tworzących produkt turystyczny. Rodzaj pracy. Artykuł teoretyczny wykorzystujący badania empiryczne.
Fast Facts
Authors: Pattillo Gary
Published: September 2017

A project of ACRL confirms multiple ways that academic libraries are contributing to student learning and success: students benefit from library instruction in their initial coursework, library use increases student success, collaborative academic programs and services involving the library enhance student learning, information literacy instruction strengthens general education outcomes, and library research consultations boost student learning.
A atual classificação do antigo gênero Tabebuia (Bignoniaceae), sob o ponto de vista da anatomia da madeira
Authors: Dos Santos Sidinei Rodrigues
Published: September 2017

O gênero Tabebuia (Bignoniaceae) sofreu inúmeras alterações ao longo de sua história, sendo recentemente dividido em três novos gêneros: Tabebuia, Handroanthus e Roseodendron. O presente estudo teve como objetivo verificar se essas modificações também se refletem na anatomia da madeira. Foram analisados caracteres anatômicos de vasos, raios e fibras de 43 espécies pertencentes aos três gêneros, retirados da literatura. Os resultados depõem favoravelmente à segregação dos novos gêneros, conforme sugerido em estudos taxonômicos recentes. Apesar de não haver uma característica ou um conjunto de características anatômicas comuns e exclusivas às espécies de cada um dos gêneros, como atualmente circunscritos, é inegável que distintas tendências estruturais justificam a separação dos mesmos.
Contrast based circular approximation for accurate and robust optic disc segmentation in retinal images
Authors: Sigut Jose , Nunez Omar , Fumero Francisco , Gonzalez Marta , Arnay Rafael
Published: September 2017

A new method for automatic optic disc localization and segmentation is presented. The localization procedure combines vascular and brightness information to provide the best estimate of the optic disc center which is the starting point for the segmentation algorithm. A detection rate of 99.58% and 100% was achieved for the Messidor and ONHSD databases, respectively. A simple circular approximation to the optic disc boundary is proposed based on the maximum average contrast between the inner and outer ring of a circle centered on the estimated location. An average overlap coefficient of 0.890 and 0.865 was achieved for the same datasets, outperforming other state of the art methods. The results obtained confirm the advantages of using a simple circular model under non-ideal conditions as opposed to more complex deformable models.
Anthropometric, physical function and general health markers of Masters athletes: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Fien Samantha , Climstein Mike , Quilter Clodagh , Buckley Georgina , Henwood Timothy , Grigg Josie , Keogh Justin W.L.
Published: September 2017

Once the general decline in muscle mass, muscle strength and physical performance falls below specific thresholds, the middle aged or older adult will be diagnosed as having sarcopenia (a loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength). Sarcopenia contributes to a range of adverse events in older age including disability, hospitalisation, institutionalisation and falls. One potentially relevant but understudied population for sarcopenia researchers would be Masters athletes. Masters sport is becoming more common as it allows athletes (typically 40 years and older) the opportunity to participate in individual and/or team sports against individuals of similar age. This study examined a variety of measures of anthropometric, physical function and general health markers in the male and female Masters athletes who competed at the 2014 Pan Pacific Masters Games held on the Gold Coast, Australia. Bioelectrical impedance analysis was used to collect body fat percentage, fat mass and fat-free mass; with body mass, height, body mass index (BMI) and sarcopenic status also recorded. Physical function was quantified by handgrip strength and habitual walking speed; with general health described by the number of chronic diseases and prescribed medications. Between group analyses utilised ANOVA and Tukey’s post-hoc tests to examine the effect of age group (40–49, 50–59, 60–69 and >70 years old) on the outcome measures for the entire sample as well as the male and female sub-groups. A total of 156 athletes (78 male, 78 female; mean 55.7 years) provided informed consent to participate in this study. These athletes possessed substantially better anthropometric, physical function and general health characteristics than the literature for their less physically active age-matched peers. No Masters athletes were categorised as being sarcopenic, although one participant had below normal physical performance and six participants had below normal muscle strength. In contrast, significant age-related reductions in handgrip strength and increases in the number of chronic diseases and prescribed medications were observed for the overall cohort as well as the male and female sub-groups. Nevertheless, even those aged over 70 years only averaged one chronic disease and one prescribed medication. These results may suggest that participation in Masters sport helps to maintain anthropometry, physical function and general health in middle-aged and older adults. However, it is also possible that only healthier middle-aged and older adults with favourable body composition and physical function may be able to participate in Masters sport. Future research should therefore utilise longitudinal research designs to determine the health and functional benefits of Master sports participation for middle-aged and older adults.
Table Salt as a Template to Prepare Reusable Porous PVDF–MWCNT Foam for Separation of Immiscible Oils/Organic Solvents and Corrosive Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Chen Faze , Lu Yao , Liu Xin , Song Jinlong , He Guanjie , Tiwari Manish K. , Carmalt Claire J. , Parkin Ivan P.
Published: September 2017

Many advanced materials are designed for separation of immiscible oils/organic solvents and aqueous solutions, including poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF)‐based materials with superwettability. However, due to the limited solubility of PVDF, techniques (e.g., phase inversion and electrospinning) often involve the use of toxic organic solvents. Here a facile organic solvent‐free method is described to prepare a porous PVDF–MWCNT (multiwalled carbon nanotube) foam using table salt as a sacrificial template. The porous PVDF–MWCNT foam is characterized as superhydrophobic–superoleophilic with good elasticity due to its 3D porosity and low surface energy. The foam exhibits high adsorption capacity to a variety of oils/organic solvents and can be easily reused by squeezing, heating, or releasing in other solvents. Moreover, the foam is highly resistant toward UV exposure, corrosive aqueous solutions such as acidic, alkaline, salty solutions, and turbulent environments, and shows effective oils/organic solvents removal in these complex environments. The continuous separation of immiscible oils/organic solvents and corrosive aqueous solutions with vacuum assistance is also presented. The organic solvent‐free and reusable PVDF–MWCNT foam is a promising candidate for large‐scale industrial separation of oils/organic solvents and water in corrosive and turbulent conditions.
Pituitary and skull‐base lesions and the litigious patient
Authors: Wang Alan C. , Darlin Spencer , Lai Wanda , Svider Peter F. , Jacob Jeffrey T. , Liu James K. , Eloy Jean Anderson , Folbe Adam J.
Published: September 2017

Background

The objective of this research was to evaluate litigation relating to the diagnosis and management of pituitary and ventral skull base lesions and delineate allegations involved in the decision to pursue medicolegal proceedings.

Methods

Publically available federal and court records were accessed via the Westlaw Next database. Jury verdict and settlement reports relevant to pituitary and anterior skull‐base lesions were accessed, and litigation was reviewed for alleged injuries, defendant specialty, patient demographics, and other factors raised in proceedings.

Results

Of 75 cases included, 50.7% were resolved in the defendant's favor. The most frequent physician specialties cited as defendants included primary care (20%), neurosurgery (17%), and radiology (16%), while otolaryngologists were defendants in only 5% of cases. Fifty‐two (69%) did not involve surgical intervention; the most common allegations in these proceedings were misdiagnosis, permanent injury (19%), requiring additional procedures as a result of misdiagnosis (17%), permanent endocrine dysfunction (14%), and visual sequelae (12%). Among surgical cases, the most common allegations raised included permanent injury (17%), postoperative complications (14%), intraoperative complications (13%), and death (10%). Among cases resolved with payment, there was no statistical difference in payment between surgical cases ($5.7M) and nonsurgical cases ($4.8M).

Conclusion

Misdiagnosis of endocrinopathy, failure to appropriately workup patients presenting with neurologic complaints, and radiologic misdiagnosis play important roles in the pursuit of litigation in nonsurgical cases. Sustaining permanent sequelae including endocrine and visual injury play an important role in surgical cases. Postoperative management appears to play just as important a role in the decision to pursue litigation as intraoperative considerations.
Graphene oxide nanosheet‐embedded crosslinked poly(ethylene oxide) hydrogel
Authors: Shin Jae Eun , Kim Hyo Won , Yoo Byung Min , Park Ho Bum
Published: September 2017

Nanofiller‐reinforced polymer nanocomposites can be used to improve the mechanical, thermal, electrical, and barrier properties of neat polymers. In this study, two‐dimensional graphene oxide (GO) nanosheets were successfully incorporated into hydrophilic crosslinked poly(ethylene oxide) (XPEG) hydrogels. Change in the gas permeability and mechanical strength were monitored as functions of the GO content and average GO flake size. The experimental results are discussed with two theoretical models (i.e., the modified Nielsen and Halpin‐Tsai models) to predict the effect of two‐dimensional GO nanofillers (e.g., loading content and alignment) on the gas permeability and mechanical properties of the GO‐embedded XPEG hydrogels (GO–XPEGs). When the GO sheets were fully exfoliated and homogeneously dispersed in the XPEG matrix, their significant reduction in gas permeability and improvement in mechanical strength were in good agreement with those theoretical models. In particular, the incorporation of 4 wt % GO into the XPEG hydrogel matrix resulted in an 80–90% reduction in the gas permeability for various gases, including He, H2, O2, N2, CH4, and CO2. Also, with increasing GO content, both the Young's modulus and tensile strength of the GO–XPEG nanocomposite hydrogels increased significantly compared to those of the neat XPEG hydrogel. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 45417.
Crosslinked poly(vinyl alcohol) composite films with cellulose nanocrystals: Mechanical and thermal properties
Authors: Tanpichai Supachok , Oksman Kristiina
Published: September 2017

In this work, poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) were crosslinked using sodium tetraborate decahydrate (borax) to improve the mechanical and thermal properties of the neat PVA. The results showed that the CNCs affected the crystallization behavior of the crosslinked PVA. The crystallization temperature of the crosslinked PVA with CNCs increased considerably from ∼152 to ∼187 °C. The continuous improvement of the thermal stability was observed with the increasing content of CNCs in the crosslinked PVA films. Additionally, the strong interaction between the CNCs and PVA was theoretically estimated from the Young's modulus values of the composites. Thermodynamic mechanical testing revealed that the crosslinked PVA composite films with CNCs could bear higher loads at high temperature compared to the films without the CNCs. At 60 °C, 2.7 GPa was reported for the storage modulus of the crosslinked composites with 3 wt % of CNCs, twice as high as that for the crosslinked films without CNCs. Moreover, creep results were improved when CNCs were added in the crosslinked nanocomposites. The materials prepared in this work could broaden the opportunities for applications in a wide range of temperatures. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 45710.
Reinforcing effect caused by equal channel multiple angular extrusion of polymers manufactured by the FDM process: Experimental investigation and mathematical modeling
Authors: Beloshenko V. A. , Beygelzimer Y. E. , Voznyak Yu. V. , Savchenko B. M. , Dmitrenko V. Yu.
Published: September 2017

The effect of orientation of the layers of the original structure of polymers produced by fused deposition modeling (FDM) on the reinforcing effect caused by succeeding equal channel multiple angular extrusion (ECMAE) is studied. As test objects, glassy acrylonitrile butadiene styrene copolymer (ABS), glycol‐modified poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET‐G) and semicrystalline PET are selected, as well as layered composites ABS/PET and ABS/PET‐G. It is demonstrated that ECMAE results in enhancement of microhardness, storage modulus, impact strength. The density, the glass transition temperature, the melting temperature are increased, too. The crystallinity degree of extrudates is enhanced. It is shown that an increment in the mechanical characteristics is better in the case of longitudinal position of the melt layers, as compared to the transversal one. The achieved effects are related to the pore healing, formation of orientation ordering, and enhanced interphase interaction and homogenization of the system in the course of production of layered composites of thermodynamically incompatible polymers. A physical model is suggested that describes the behavior of the layered materials under ECMAE. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 45727.
Pathways for implementation of blue carbon initiatives
Authors: Herr Dorothée , von Unger Moritz , Laffoley Dan , McGivern Alexis
Published: September 2017

Coastal blue carbon activities are being implemented by a variety of countries, using different approaches. Existing regulatory regimes, including on coastal protection, are still very useful tools to protect and conserve mangroves, seagrasses and saltmarshes, and preserve their carbon value and role. These approaches suffer, however, from ‘traditional’ issues such as lack of enforcement, human and financial constraints as well as unclear or misguiding government mandates.

Successes are witnessed using a community‐based carbon project approach, ensuring high stakeholder participation via direct or indirect incentive programmes. Comprehensive coastal zone management approaches seem very promising, but success overall, and regarding carbon specifically, are yet to be reported.

The Paris Agreement has introduced new tools which could serve as means to trigger more and better coastal adaptation and mitigation efforts. Their implementation details are, however, still under negotiation and their impacts can only be expected in a few years.
The potential to integrate blue carbon into MPA design and management
Authors: Howard Jennifer , McLeod Elizabeth , Thomas Sebastian , Eastwood Erin , Fox Matthew , Wenzel Lauren , Pidgeon Emily
Published: September 2017

Oceans and coasts provide a wide array of services to humans, including climate regulation, food security, and livelihoods. Managing them well is vital to human well‐being as well as the maintenance of marine biodiversity and ocean‐dependent economies.

Carbon sequestration and storage is increasingly recognized as a valuable service provided by coastal vegetation. Carbon sequestered and stored by mangrove forests, tidal marshes, and seagrass meadows is known as ‘blue’ carbon. These habitats capture and store carbon within the plants themselves and in the sediment below them. When the habitats are destroyed, much of their carbon is released back to the atmosphere and ocean contributing to global climate change.

Therefore, blue carbon ecosystem protection is becoming a greater priority in marine management and is an area of interest to scientists, policy makers, coastal communities, and the private sector including those that contribute to ecosystem degradation but also those that are looking to reduce their carbon footprint. A range of policy and management responses aim to reduce coastal ecosystem loss, including the establishment of marine protected areas (MPAs).

This paper explores how MPA design, location, and management could be used to protect and increase carbon sequestration and ensure integrity of carbon storage through conservation and restoration activities. While additional research is necessary to validate the proposed recommendations, this paper describes much needed first steps and highlights the potential for blue carbon finance mechanisms to provide sustainable funding for MPAs.
Virtual reality, augmented reality, mixed reality, and the marine conservation movement
Authors: McMillan Kiki , Flood Kathie , Glaeser Russ
Published: September 2017

Virtual reality (VR) is defined as the computer‐generated simulation of a three‐dimensional image or environment that can be interacted with in a seemingly real or physical way by a person using special electronic equipment, such as a helmet with a screen inside or gloves fitted with sensors. Other related technologies include augmented reality (AR) and mixed reality (MR).

Virtual reality has the potential to be an effective tool that marine educators and conservationists can use to motivate an interest in and empathy for marine conservation and education at a global level.

However, the various differing systems that are currently available, many with different but vaguely similar names, can make this groundbreaking technology particularly daunting for newcomers.

Understanding the differences among VR, AR, and MR is key to understanding how best to use this technology for the promotion of marine conservation and global education.

There are some potential legal and health‐related impacts on users of VR technology that need to be addressed before VR can truly be effective on a global scale.

Infinite Scuba is a video game developed by Cascade Game Foundry (CGF) that enables players to explore the ocean virtually with Mission Blue founder, Dr Sylvia Earle.

Cascade Game Foundry (CGF) recently introduced a VR version of Infinite Scuba and made some discoveries that should be encouraging to those engaged in the global marine conservation effort.

Virtual reality technology has the potential to play a key role in mobilizing knowledge and conservation action in the future.
Organometallic DNA–B12 Conjugates as Potential Oligonucleotide Vectors: Synthesis and Structural and Binding Studies with Human Cobalamin‐Transport Proteins
Authors: Mutti Elena , Hunger Miriam , Fedosov Sergey , Nexo Ebba , Kräutler Bernhard
Published: September 2017

The synthesis and structural characterization of Co‐(dN)25‐Cbl (Cbl: cobalamin; dN: deoxynucleotide) and Co‐(dN)39‐Cbl, which are organometallic DNA–B12 conjugates with single DNA strands consisting of 25 and 39 deoxynucleotides, respectively, and binding studies of these two DNA–Cbl conjugates to three homologous human Cbl transporting proteins, transcobalamin (TC), intrinsic factor (IF), and haptocorrin (HC), are reported. This investigation tests the suitability of such DNA–Cbls for the task of eventual in vivo oligonucleotide delivery. The binding of DNA–Cbl to TC, IF, and HC was investigated in competition with either a fluorescent Cbl derivative and Co‐(dN)25‐Cbl, or radiolabeled vitamin B12 (57Co‐CNCbl) and Co‐(dN)25‐Cbl or Co‐(dN)39‐Cbl. Binding of the new DNA–Cbl conjugates was fast and tight with TC, but poorer with HC and IF, which extends a similar original finding with the simpler DNA–Cbl, Co‐(dN)18‐Cbl. The contrasting affinities of TC versus IF and HC for the DNA–Cbl conjugates are rationalized herein by a stepwise mechanism of Cbl binding. Critical contributions to overall affinity result from gradual conformational adaptations of the Cbl‐binding proteins to the DNA–Cbl, which is first bound to the respective β domains. This transition is fast with TC, but slow with IF and HC, with which weaker binding results. The invariably tight interaction of the DNA–Cbl conjugates with TC makes the Cbl moiety a potential natural vector for the specific delivery of oligonucleotide loads from the blood into cells.
Criminal thinking shifts among male prisoners participating in a cognitive‐based education programme
Authors: Warner Cody , Conley Timothy , Murphy Riley
Published: September 2017

Background

Many prisoners rationalise criminal behaviour, and this type of thinking has been linked to recidivism. Correctional programmes for modifying criminal thinking can reshape how offenders view themselves and their circumstances.

Aim

Our aim was to test whether participation in a cognitive‐based curriculum called Steps to Economic and Personal Success (STEPS) was associated with changes in criminal thinking.

Methods

The STEPS curriculum is delivered in 15 video‐based facilitated classes. A pre‐intervention/post‐intervention survey design was applied to 128 adult male prisoners who completed the programme. Criminal thinking was measured by the Texas Christian University Criminal Thinking Scale, a self‐report instrument with the six domains: entitlement, justification, power orientation, cold heartedness, criminal rationalisation and personal irresponsibility.

Results

Participants had lower scores in most of the criminal thinking domains after the intervention than before, with largest reductions in justification and power orientation.

Conclusion

Findings provide evidence that attitudes to crime can be changed in a correctional setting, and the programme under study shows promise as an effective intervention for changing these attitudes among prisoners. Future research should build on these findings to examine whether and how such changes are related to desistance from offending behaviours. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Efficient Sensitized Z→E Photoisomerization of an Iridium(III)‐Azobenzene Complex over a Wide Concentration Range
Authors: Moreno Javier , Grubert Lutz , Schwarz Jutta , Bléger David , Hecht Stefan
Published: September 2017

To improve the sensitized Z→E photoisomerization of azobenzenes, and circumvent the threshold concentration necessary for the bimolecular photoinduced electron transfer reaction to generate the rapidly isomerizing Z‐azobenzene radical anion, an IrIII complex with a covalently tethered azobenzene fragment was synthesized. Selective irradiation of the 1MLCT band of the IrIII complex induced an efficiently sensitized photoswitching of the dyad over a wide concentration range and even at high dilution.
Facet‐Specific Ligand Interactions on Ternary AgSbS2 Colloidal Quantum Dots
Authors: Choi Hyekyoung , Kim Sungwoo , Luther Joseph M. , Kim Sang‐Wook , Shin Dongwoon , Beard Matthew C. , Jeong Sohee
Published: September 2017

Silver dimetal chalcogenide (Ag‐V‐VI2) ternary quantum dots (QDs) are emerging lead‐free materials for optoelectronic devices due to their NIR band gaps, large absorption coefficients, and superior electronic properties. However, thin film‐based devices of the ternary QDs still lag behind due to the lack of understanding of the surface chemistry, compared to that of lead chalcogenide QDs even with the same crystal structure. Herein the surface ligand interactions of AgSbS2 QDs, synthesized with 1‐dodecanethiol used as a stabilizer, are studied. For nonpolar (1 0 0) surfaces, it is suggested that the thiolate ligands are associated with the crystal lattices, thus preventing surface oxidation by protecting sulfur after air‐exposure, as confirmed through optical and surface chemical analysis. Otherwise, silver rich (1 1 1) surfaces are passivated by thiolate ligands, allowing ligand exchange processes for the conductive films. This in‐depth investigation of the surface chemistry of ternary QDs will prompt the performance enhancement of their optoelectronic devices.
Comparison of unilateral versus bilateral intensity‐modulated radiotherapy for surgically treated squamous cell carcinoma of the palatine tonsil
Authors: Chin Re‐I , Rao Yuan James , Hwang Michael Y. , Spencer Christopher R. , Pierro Michael , DeWees Todd , Patel Pranav , Sinha Parul , Gay Hiram A. , Daly Mackenzie , Haughey Bruce H. , Nussenbaum Brian , Adkins Douglas R. , Lewis James S. , Thorstad Wade L.
Published: September 2017

BACKGROUND

The authors hypothesized that unilateral intensity‐modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) would decrease toxicity compared with bilateral IMRT for patients with lateralized palatine tonsillar cancer and a neck classification of N0 to N2b, with similar oncological outcomes.

METHODS

A total of 154 patients were treated with postoperative IMRT from 1997 through 2013. Data were collected prospectively from 2005 to 2013 and retrospectively collected before 2005. Of those patients with lateralized primary and N0 to N2b disease, 48 received unilateral IMRT (group 1) and 59 received bilateral IMRT (group 2); a total of 47 patients had nonlateralized primary or N2c to N3 disease and received bilateral IMRT (group 3).

RESULTS

The median follow‐up was 5.5 years. The 5‐year locoregional control rates were similar in group 1, group 2, and group 3 (100%, 96%, and 94%, respectively; pooled comparison: P = .39 and group 1 vs group 2 comparison: P = .19). The 5‐year overall survival rates were similar in group 1, group 2, and group 3 (85%, 79%, and 76%, respectively; pooled comparison: P = .60 and group 1 vs group 2 comparison: P = .25). There were no contralateral neck recurrences noted among unilaterally treated patients. Unilateral IMRT reduced acute toxicity and improved patient‐reported quality of life compared with bilateral IMRT.

CONCLUSIONS

Unilateral IMRT appears to reduce acute toxicity and achieves oncological outcomes similar to those of bilateral IMRT in selected patients with lateralized palatine tonsillar cancer with a neck classification of N0 to N2b. Cancer 2017;123:4594‐4607. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
Quality of life from the perspective of the patient with acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Buckley Sarah A. , Jimenez‐Sahagun Diana , Othus Megan , Walter Roland B. , Lee Stephanie J.
Published: September 2017

BACKGROUND

Although outcomes for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) have improved over time, they remain poor overall, and toxicity from both the disease and its treatment can affect quality of life (QOL). One barrier to including QOL endpoints in clinical trials is the lack of a disease‐specific QOL instrument that can efficiently capture the major QOL deficits in this population.

METHODS

A cross‐sectional study was performed to elicit concepts for inclusion in a new AML‐specific QOL instrument called the AML‐QOL. Eighty‐two patients at various stages of disease were interviewed about sources of support (positive concepts) and problems and symptoms (negative concepts) experienced over the past week, and they were asked to grade how much each affected their QOL. In addition, patients were asked to complete 2 validated instruments: the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy with the leukemia and transplant modules and the 29‐item Patient‐Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System questionnaire.

RESULTS

With data from the open‐ended and questionnaire‐based portions of the interview, 7 positive concepts and 64 negative concepts were elicited. From these, 5 positive concepts and 21 negative concepts were selected for inclusion in the preliminary AML‐QOL on the basis of concept prevalence and the impact on QOL.

CONCLUSIONS

These concepts will form the basis of a new QOL instrument specific to AML. Cancer 2018;124:145‐52. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
Drivers of nitrogen transfer in stream food webs across continents
Authors: Norman Beth C. , Whiles Matt R. , Collins Sarah M. , Flecker Alexander S. , Hamilton Steve K. , Johnson Sherri L. , Rosi Emma J. , Ashkenas Linda R. , Bowden William B. , Crenshaw Chelsea L. , Crowl Todd , Dodds Walter K. , Hall Robert O. , El‐Sabaawi Rana , Griffiths Natalie A. , Marti Eugènia , McDowell William H. , Peterson Scot D. , Rantala Heidi M. , Riis Tenna , Simon Kevin S. , Tank Jennifer L. , Thomas Steven A. , von Schiller Daniel , Webster Jackson R.
Published: September 2017

Studies of trophic‐level material and energy transfers are central to ecology. The use of isotopic tracers has now made it possible to measure trophic transfer efficiencies of important nutrients and to better understand how these materials move through food webs. We analyzed data from thirteen 15N‐ammonium tracer addition experiments to quantify N transfer from basal resources to animals in headwater streams with varying physical, chemical, and biological features. N transfer efficiencies from primary uptake compartments (PUCs; heterotrophic microorganisms and primary producers) to primary consumers was lower (mean 11.5%, range <1% to 43%) than N transfer efficiencies from primary consumers to predators (mean 80%, range 5% to >100%). Total N transferred (as a rate) was greater in streams with open compared to closed canopies and overall N transfer efficiency generally followed a similar pattern, although was not statistically significant. We used principal component analysis to condense a suite of site characteristics into two environmental components. Total N uptake rates among trophic levels were best predicted by the component that was correlated with latitude, DIN:SRP, GPP:ER, and percent canopy cover. N transfer efficiency did not respond consistently to environmental variables. Our results suggest that canopy cover influences N movement through stream food webs because light availability and primary production facilitate N transfer to higher trophic levels.
Influence of deterioration modelling on the seismic response of steel moment frames designed to Eurocode 8
Authors: Tsitos Antonios , Bravo‐Haro Miguel A. , Elghazouli Ahmed Y.
Published: September 2017

This paper assesses the influence of cyclic and in‐cycle degradation on seismic drift demands in moment‐resisting steel frames (MRF) designed to Eurocode 8. The structural characteristics, ground motion frequency content, and level of inelasticity are the primary parameters considered. A set of single‐degree‐of‐freedom (SDOF) systems, subjected to varying levels of inelastic demands, is initially investigated followed by an extensive study on multi‐storey frames. The latter comprises a large number of incremental dynamic analyses (IDA) on 12 frames modelled with or without consideration of degradation effects. A suite of 56 far‐field ground motion records, appropriately scaled to simulate 4 levels of inelastic demand, is employed for the IDA. Characteristic results from a detailed parametric investigation show that maximum response in terms of global and inter‐storey drifts is notably affected by degradation phenomena, in addition to the earthquake frequency content and the scaled inelastic demands. Consistently, both SDOF and frame systems with fundamental periods shorter than the mean period of ground motion can experience higher lateral strength demands and seismic drifts than those of non‐degrading counterparts in the same period range. Also, degrading multi‐storey frames can exhibit distinctly different plastic mechanisms with concentration of drifts at lower levels. Importantly, degrading systems might reach a “near‐collapse” limit state at ductility demand levels comparable to or lower than the assumed design behaviour factor, a result with direct consequences on optimised design situations where over‐strength would be minimal. Finally, the implications of the findings with respect to design‐level limit states are discussed.
Soil erosion in the Anthropocene: Research needs
Authors: Poesen Jean
Published: September 2017

Soil erosion is a geomorphological and, at the same time, a land degradation process that may cause environmental and property damage, loss of livelihoods and services as well as social and economic disruption. Erosion not only lowers soil quality on‐site, but causes also significant sediment‐related problems off‐site. Given the large number of research papers on this topic, one might therefore conclude that we know now almost everything about soil erosion and its control so that little new knowledge can be added. This conclusion can be refuted by pointing to some major research gaps. There is a need for more research attention to (1) improved understanding of both natural and anthropogenic soil erosion processes and their interactions, (2) scaling up soil erosion processes and rates in space and time, and (3) innovative techniques and strategies to prevent soil erosion or reduce erosion rates. This is illustrated with various case studies from around the world. If future research addresses these research gaps, we will (1) better understand processes and their interactions operating at a range of spatial and temporal scales, predict their rates as well as their on‐site and off‐site impacts, which is academically spoken rewarding but also crucial for better targeting erosion control measures, and (2) we will be in a better position to select the most appropriate and effective soil erosion control techniques and strategies which are highly necessary for a sustainable use of soils in the Anthropocene. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Central and non‐central networks, cognition, clinical symptoms, and polygenic risk scores in schizophrenia
Authors: Alloza Clara , Bastin Mark E. , Cox Simon R. , Gibson Jude , Duff Barbara , Semple Scott I. , Whalley Heather C. , Lawrie Stephen M.
Published: September 2017

Schizophrenia is a complex disorder that may be the result of aberrant connections between specific brain regions rather than focal brain abnormalities. Here, we investigate the relationships between brain structural connectivity as described by network analysis, intelligence, symptoms, and polygenic risk scores (PGRS) for schizophrenia in a group of patients with schizophrenia and a group of healthy controls. Recently, researchers have shown an interest in the role of high centrality networks in the disorder. However, the importance of non‐central networks still remains unclear. Thus, we specifically examined network‐averaged fractional anisotropy (mean edge weight) in central and non‐central subnetworks. Connections with the highest betweenness centrality within the average network (>75% of centrality values) were selected to represent the central subnetwork. The remaining connections were assigned to the non‐central subnetwork. Additionally, we calculated graph theory measures from the average network (connections that occur in at least 2/3 of participants). Density, strength, global efficiency, and clustering coefficient were significantly lower in patients compared with healthy controls for the average network (pFDR < 0.05). All metrics across networks were significantly associated with intelligence (pFDR < 0.05). There was a tendency towards significance for a correlation between intelligence and PGRS for schizophrenia (r = −0.508, p = 0.052) that was significantly mediated by central and non‐central mean edge weight and every graph metric from the average network. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that intelligence deficits are associated with a genetic risk for schizophrenia, which is mediated via the disruption of distributed brain networks. Hum Brain Mapp 38:5919–5930, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.