bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The rate of equilibration of viscous aerosol particles
Authors: O'Meara Simon , Topping David O. , McFiggans Gordon
Published: April 2016

Abstract. The proximity of atmospheric aerosol particles to equilibrium with their surrounding condensable vapours can substantially impact their transformations, fate and impacts and is the subject of vibrant research activity. In this study we first compare equilibration timescales estimated by three different models for diffusion through aerosol particles to assess any sensitivity to choice of model framework. Equilibration times for diffusion coefficients with varying dependencies on composition are compared for the first time. We show that even under large changes in the saturation ratio of a semi-volatile component (es) of 1–90 % predicted equilibration timescales are in agreement, including when diffusion coefficients vary with composition. For condensing water and a diffusion coefficient dependent on composition, a plasticising effect is observed, leading to a decreased estimated equilibration time with increasing final es. Above 60 % final es maximum equilibration times of around 1 s are estimated for comparatively large particles (10 µm) containing a relatively low diffusivity component (1  ×  10−25 m2 s−1 in pure form). This, as well as other results here, questions whether particle-phase diffusion through water-soluble particles can limit hygroscopic growth in the ambient atmosphere. In the second part of this study, we explore sensitivities associated with the use of particle radius measurements to infer diffusion coefficient dependencies on composition using a diffusion model. Given quantified similarities between models used in this study, our results confirm considerations that must be taken into account when designing such experiments. Although quantitative agreement of equilibration timescales between models is found, further work is necessary to determine their suitability for assessing atmospheric impacts, such as their inclusion in polydisperse aerosol simulations.
Are BVOC exchanges in agricultural ecosystems overestimated? Insights from fluxes measured in a maize field over a whole growing season
Authors: Bachy Aurélie , Aubinet Marc , Schoon Niels , Amelynck Crist , Bodson Bernard , Moureaux Christine , Heinesch Bernard
Published: April 2016

Abstract. Although maize is the second most important crop worldwide, and the most important C4 crop, no study on biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) has yet been conducted on this crop at ecosystem scale and over a whole growing season. This has led to large uncertainties in cropland BVOC emission estimations. This paper seeks to fill this gap by presenting, for the first time, BVOC fluxes measured in a maize field at ecosystem scale (using the disjunct eddy covariance by mass scanning technique) over a whole growing season in Belgium. The maize field emitted mainly methanol, although exchanges were bi-directional. The second most exchanged compound was acetic acid, which was taken up mainly in the growing season. Bi-directional exchanges of acetaldehyde, acetone and other oxygenated VOCs also occurred, whereas the terpenes, benzene and toluene exchanges were small, albeit significant. Surprisingly, BVOC exchanges were of the same order of magnitude on bare soil and on well developed vegetation, suggesting that soil is a major BVOC reservoir in agricultural ecosystems. Quantitatively, the maize BVOC emissions observed were lower than those reported in other maize, crops and grasses studies. The standard emission factors (SEFs) estimated in this study (231 ± 19 µg m−2 h−1 for methanol, 8 ± 5 µg m−2 h−1 for isoprene and 4 ± 6 µg m−2 h−1 for monoterpenes) were also much lower than those currently used by models for C4 crops, particularly for terpenes. These results suggest that maize fields are small BVOC exchangers in north-western Europe, with a lower BVOC emission impact than that modelled for growing C4 crops in this part of the world. They also reveal the high variability in BVOC exchanges across world regions for maize and suggest that SEFs should be estimated for each region separately.
Ground-based imaging remote sensing of ice clouds: uncertainties caused by sensor, method and atmosphere
Authors: Zinner Tobias , Hausmann Petra , Ewald Florian , Bugliaro Luca , Emde Claudia , Mayer Bernhard
Published: April 2016

Abstract. In this study a method is introduced for retrieval of optical thickness and effective particle size of ice clouds over a wide range of optical thickness from ground-based transmitted radiance measurements. Low optical thickness of cirrus clouds and their complex microphysics present a challenge for cloud remote sensing. In transmittance, the relationship between optical depth and radiance is ambiguous. To resolve this ambiguity the retrieval utilizes the spectral slope of radiance between 485–560 nm in addition to the commonly employed combination of a visible and a shortwave infrared wavelength. An extensive test of retrieval sensitivity was conducted using synthetic test spectra in which all parameters introducing uncertainty into the retrieval were varied systematically: unknown ice crystal habit and aerosol properties, instrument noise, calibration uncertainty and the interpolation in the lookup table required by the retrieval process. The most important source of errors identified are uncertainties due to habit assumption: Averaged over all test spectra, systematic biases in the effective radius retrieval of several micrometer can be caused. The statistical uncertainties of any individual retrieval can easily exceed 10 μm. For optical thickness biases are mostly below 1, statistical uncertainties are in the range of 1 to 2.5. For demonstration and verification the retrieval is applied to observations by the LMU hyperspectral imager specMACS at the Schneefernerhaus observatory (2650 m a.s.l) during the ACRIDICON-Zugspitze campaign in September and October 2012. Results are compared to MODIS and SEVIRI satellite based cirrus retrievals. Considering the identified uncertainties for our ground based approach and for the satellite retrievals, comparison shows good agreement within the range of natural variability in the direct surrounding.
The Pilatus unmanned aircraft system for lower atmospheric research
Authors: de Boer Gijs , Palo Scott , Argrow Brian , LoDolce Gabriel , Mack James , Gao Ru-Shan , Telg Hagen , Trussel Cameron , Fromm Joshua , Long Charles N. , Bland Geoff , Maslanik James , Schmid Beat , Hock Terry
Published: April 2016

Abstract. This paper presents details of the University of Colorado (CU) “Pilatus” unmanned research aircraft, assembled to provide measurements of aerosols, radiation and thermodynamics in the lower troposphere. This aircraft has a wingspan of 3.2 m and a maximum take-off weight of 25 kg, and it is powered by an electric motor to reduce engine exhaust and concerns about carburetor icing. It carries instrumentation to make measurements of broadband up- and downwelling shortwave and longwave radiation, aerosol particle size distribution, atmospheric temperature, relative humidity and pressure and to collect video of flights for subsequent analysis of atmospheric conditions during flight. In order to make the shortwave radiation measurements, care was taken to carefully position a high-quality compact inertial measurement unit (IMU) and characterize the attitude of the aircraft and its orientation to the upward-looking radiation sensor. Using measurements from both of these sensors, a correction is applied to the raw radiometer measurements to correct for aircraft attitude and sensor tilt relative to the sun. The data acquisition system was designed from scratch based on a set of key driving requirements to accommodate the variety of sensors deployed. Initial test flights completed in Colorado provide promising results with measurements from the radiation sensors agreeing with those from a nearby surface site. Additionally, estimates of surface albedo from onboard sensors were consistent with local surface conditions, including melting snow and bright runway surface. Aerosol size distributions collected are internally consistent and have previously been shown to agree well with larger, surface-based instrumentation. Finally the atmospheric state measurements evolve as expected, with the near-surface atmosphere warming over time as the day goes on, and the atmospheric relative humidity decreasing with increased temperature. No directional bias on measured temperature, as might be expected due to uneven heating of the sensor housing over the course of a racetrack pattern, was detected. The results from these flights indicate that the CU Pilatus platform is capable of performing research-grade lower tropospheric measurement missions.
Retrieval of aerosol optical depth in the visible range with a Brewer spectrophotometer in Athens
Authors: Diémoz Henri , Eleftheratos Kostas , Kazadzis Stelios , Amiridis Vassilis , Zerefos Christos S.
Published: April 2016

Abstract. A MkIV Brewer spectrophotometer has been operating in Athens since 2004. Direct-sun measurements originally scheduled for nitrogen dioxide retrievals were reprocessed to provide aerosol optical depths (AODs) at a wavelength of about 440 nm. A novel retrieval algorithm was specifically developed and the resulting AODs were compared to those obtained from a collocated Cimel filter radiometer belonging to the Aerosol Robotic Network (AERONET). The series are perfectly correlated, with Pearson's correlation coefficients being as large as 0.996 and with 90 % of AOD deviations between the two instruments being within the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) traceability limits. In order to reach such a high agreement, several instrumental factors impacting the quality of the Brewer retrievals must be taken into account, including sensitivity to the internal temperature, and the state of the external optics and pointing accuracy must be carefully checked. Furthermore, the long-term radiometric stability of the Brewer was investigated and the performances of in situ Langley extrapolations as a way to track the absolute calibration of the Brewer were assessed. Other sources of error, such as slight shifts of the wavelength scale, are discussed and some recommendations to Brewer operators are drawn. Although MkIV Brewers are rarely employed to retrieve AODs in the visible range, they represent a key source of information about aerosol changes in the past three decades and a potential worldwide network for present and future coordinated AOD measurements. Moreover, a better understanding of the AOD retrieval at visible wavelengths will also contribute in improving similar techniques in the more challenging UV range.
Revisiting ocean carbon sequestration by direct injection: A global carbon budget perspective
Authors: Reith Fabian , Keller David P. , Oschlies Andreas
Published: April 2016

Abstract. In this study we look beyond the previously studied effects of oceanic CO2 injections on atmospheric and oceanic reservoirs, and also account for carbon cycle and climate feedbacks between the atmosphere and the terrestrial biosphere. Considering these additional feedbacks is important since backfluxes from the terrestrial biosphere to the atmosphere in response to reducing atmospheric CO2 can further offset the targeted reduction. To quantify these dynamics we use an Earth-system model of intermediate complexity to simulate direct injection of CO2 into the deep ocean as a means of emissions mitigation during a high CO2 emission scenario. In three sets of experiments with different injection depths, we simulate a 100-year injection period of a total of 70 GtC and follow global carbon cycle dynamics over another 900 years. Simulated seawater chemistry changes and marine carbon storage effectiveness are similar to previous studies. As expected, by the end of the injection period avoided emissions fall short of the targeted 70 GtC by 16 % to 30 % as a result of carbon cycle feedbacks and backfluxes in both land and ocean reservoirs. An unexpected feature are effects of the model's internal variability of deep-water formation in the Southern Ocean, which, in some model runs, causes additional oceanic carbon uptake after injection termination relative to a control run without injection and therefore with slightly different atmospheric CO2 and climate. These results of a model that has very low internal climate variability illustrate that attribution of carbon fluxes and accounting for injected CO2 may be very challenging in the real climate system with its much larger internal variability.
Predicting the salt water intrusion in the Shatt al Arab estuary using an analytical approach
Authors: Abdullah Ali D. , Gisen Jacqueline I. A. , van der Zaag Pieter , Savenije Hubert H. G. , Karim Usama F. A. , Masih Ilyas , Popescu Ioana
Published: April 2016

Abstract. Longitudinal and vertical salinity measurements are used in this study to predict the extent of in-land seawater intrusion in a deltaic river estuary. A predictive model is constructed to apply to the specific tidal, seasonal and discharge variability and geometric characteristics of the Shatt al-Arab River (SAR) situated along the border of Iraq and Iran. Reliable hydrologic simulation of salinity dynamics and seawater intrusion was lacking prior to this study. Tidal excursion is simulated analytically using a 1-D analytical salt intrusion model with recently updated equations for tidal mixing. The model was applied under different river conditions to analyze the seasonal variability of salinity distribution during wet and dry periods near spring and neap tides between March 2014 and January 2015. A good fit is possible with this model between computed and observed salinity distribution. Estimating water abstractions along the estuary improves the performance of the equations, especially at low flows and with a well calibrated dispersion-excursion relationship of the updated equations. Salt intrusion lengths given the current data varied from 38 to 65 km during the year of observation. With extremely low river discharge, which is highly likely there, we predict a much further distance of 92 km. These new predictions demonstrate that the SAR, already plagued with extreme salinity, may face deteriorating water quality levels in the near future, requiring prompt interventions.
How fast do amphibians disperse? Introductions, distribution and dispersal of the common frog Rana temporaria and the common toad Bufo bufo on a coastal island in Central Norway
Authors: Dolmen Dag , Seland Jan
Published: April 2016

The common frog (Rana temporaria) and the common toad (Bufo bufo) were introduced successfully to the coastal island of Frøya in Central Norway several times during 1960–2012. There is still a very high degree of conformity between sites where they were introduced and the present distribution of the two species. However, in western Frøya, a release of frogs about 1996 was followed by a quick expansion of their distribution area; in 2012 and 2013, breeding was registered close to 7 km westwards and eastwards, respectively, i.e. a population dispersal speed of approximately 0.4 km/yr. On eastern Frøya and some small islands in the archipelago, area expansions at another four frog localities have been prevented by ecological barriers like unfavourable limnetic or terrestrial habitats or salty water. Two local common toad populations on eastern Frøya do not show any expansion either. However, an apparently isolated record of the species on western Frøya in 2011 can possibly be explained by the expansion westwards of a population in northern central Frøya, where toads were introduced around 1995. This stretch is about 9.9 km, i.e. an average population dispersal speed of 0.6 km/yr.
UMA ANÁLISE DA REFORMA TRIBUTÁRIA SOBRE A ECONOMIA E A COMPETITIVIDADE SETORIAL DAS MACRORREGIÕES BRASILEIRAS
Authors: Pereira Matheus Wemerson Gomes , Teixeira Erly Cardoso , Gurgel Ângelo Costa
Published: April 2016

A estrutura tributária brasileira é considerada obsoleta, extremamente complexa, dispendiosa para o setor produtivo, trazendo prejuízo à competitividade e induzindo à sonegação. Nesse sentido uma reforma tributária que desonere o setor produtivo é primordial para melhoria das condições de produção domésticas. O objetivo deste trabalho é determinar os efeitos de uma reforma tributaria sobre a economia e a competitividade setorial das regiões brasileiras. O cenário de análise simula uma reforma que ocorre pela eliminação do ICMS e ISS e sua substituição pelo Imposto sobre o Valor Adicionado (IVA) e pela redução nos principais impostos indiretos específicos do âmbito federal. Para isto, utilizou-se o modelo de equilíbrio geral do PAEG (versão 2.2), que caracteriza economias das grandes regiões brasileiras e países parceiros. O principal efeito desse cenário ocorre sobre o consumo e o bem-estar. Destaca-se que o fluxo comercial é negativo, e neste cenário a redução nos impostos foi capaz de promover o crescimento em grande parte das regiões e no país como um todo, além de melhorar a distribuição de renda regional.
PROGRAMA BOLSA FAMÍLIA: UMA ANÁLISE ESPACIAL NOS MUNICÍPIOS DO PARANÁ EM 2004, 2008 E 2012
Authors: Brambilla Marcos Aurélio , Marconato Marcio , Câmara Marcia Regina Gabardo , Carvalho Sergio Carlos , Nascimento Sidinei Pereira
Published: April 2016

O objetivo do presente trabalho é fazer uma análise espacial multivariada entre a taxa de pobreza e o benefício médio anual do principal programa de transferência de renda do Governo Federal (Programa Bolsa Família) nos municípios do Paraná com dados de 2004, 2008 e 2012. Para isso, o trabalho toma como metodologia a Análise Exploratória dos Dados Espaciais para se identificar os coeficientes bivariados I de Moran, os gráficos de dispersão, os mapas de significâncias e finalmente os mapas de clusters das variáveis dos municípios, cuja análise utiliza os dados fornecidos pelo Ministério de Desenvolvimento Social e Combate à Fome (MDS) e Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estatística (IBGE). O estudo permite concluir que houve: incremento do benefício médio (PBF) em cidades com alto índice de pobreza e menor em cidades com menores índices de pobreza; e expansão do programa no Paraná, alcançando as regiões mais pobres do estado.
O SETOR CALÇADISTA DO VALE DOS SINOS/RS: UM ESTUDO A PARTIR DO MODELO ESTRUTURA-CONDUTA-DESEMPENHO
Authors: Lopes Herton Castiglioni
Published: April 2016

O trabalho tem como objetivo realizar um estudo do setor calçadista do Vale dos Sinos/RS a partir do modelo Estrutura-Conduta-Desempenho (E-C-D). Para isso, foram utilizadas informações de fonte secundária, como publicações sobre o assunto, e dados primários, referentes à aplicação de questionários às empresas da região do Vale dos Sinos/RS cadastradas na Abicalçados. Quanto à estrutura, observou-se queda no grau de concentração da indústria no estado. Já nas empresas do Vale dos Sinos/RS constataram-se baixas barreiras à entrada, mas com necessidade de grandes investimentos e uma alta escala produtiva para que as firmas possam concorrer no mercado. É uma indústria diversificada, com baixa ocorrência de integração vertical e com produtos diferenciados, mas em que as estratégias de redução de custos tem sido prioridade para os empresários. Observaram-se significativos esforços por parte das empresas no sentido de melhorar o desempenho de mercado, altamente prejudicado devido às políticas macroeconômicas e ao ambiente concorrencial que se formou nos últimos anos.
Reviewer Acknowledgements for Global Journal of Health Science, Vol. 8, No. 5
Authors: Grey Erica
Published: April 2016

Reviewer Acknowledgements for Global Journal of Health Science, Vol. 8, No. 5, 2016.
In Health Care, It Pays to be Green
Authors: Christoffersen Susan Carol , Granitz Elizabeth Harman
Published: April 2016

Firms have a responsibility to their shareholders to maximize their financial performance however they are increasingly scrutinized for environmental practices as well. These two objectives are often thought to be in conflict; it can be costly to be a good steward of the environment however it may be more costly in the long run to ignore societal pressures and environmental impacts. While various studies provide ambiguous and sometimes contradictory results, we conduct a rigorous analysis of the health care sector using Trucost’s Environmental Impact Score and financial data. The study uses regression analysis to identify the extent to which the benefit to the firm of reducing its environmental impact is financially beneficial. In the health care sector, an increase in the environmental impact score of 1 unit is correlated with an increase of 4% of their earnings per share. Improving the environmental bottom line improves the financial bottom line.
Board Gender Diversity and Dimensions of Corporate Social Responsibility
Authors: Kaspereit Thomas , Lopatta Kerstin , Matolcsy Zoltan
Published: April 2016

This study investigates the association between board gender diversity and various dimensions of CSR. We develop a theoretical framework, where specific dimensions of CSR have various predicted associations with board gender diversity. Our empirical results show that board gender diversity has an impact on the following CSR dimensions: community, diversity, employees, and environment. Our findings support the notion that women exhibit more communal traits, demand more CSR information before they take investment decisions, and are more concerned about stakeholders than their male counterparts. Our results also contribute to the current “push” for greater gender diversity of boards by regulators and policy makers, as we demonstrate some of the benefits associated with board gender diversity.
Confession Validity in Civil Right in Iranian Law and International Conventions
Authors: Khodadoost Behnam , Mirkhalili Seyed Mahmoud
Published: April 2016

Confession importance in retribution and even in civil affairs is so that law scientists call it as key reasons. Its importance is that is always in claims such as the most important reason to it. In principal in punishment affairs, confession accused without there is investigation on his/her validity confession and there is documentaries on its affirm, there is not subjectivism and maybe there is from knowledge and presumption from court located on accused crime identification, therefore there is not worth confession that it obtains from compulsion, threat and torment and it has no way to it and taking confession to this way is perfect breach for civil law in law examination. There is one of sensible antitype retribution justice, observe civil law in judgmental courts there is the most important pillar in observation civil right, security and freedom in judgement sessions and especially confession controversy is the same subject. Guarantee civil law and judgement execution all of judgement procedures including crime discovery, pursuit, investigation, punishment execution or security and cultivation actions are basic assignments of retribution justice. In this study there was paid to specify confession place in judgements and volume its credit with confirm on civil rights.
Reviewer Acknowledgements for Journal of Politics and Law, Vol. 9, No. 3
Authors: Sheng Vivian
Published: April 2016

Reviewer acknowledgements for Journal of Politics and Law, Vol. 9, No. 3, 2016.
Fiscal Responsibility Law and Life Quality: Public Health Analysis
Authors: Silva Maria Luiza G. R. , Faroni Walmer , Baeta Odemir V. , Araujo Djair C
Published: April 2016

This article seeks to identify the existence of correlation between responsible management of the public finances as a result of the Lei de Responsabilidade Fiscal (LRF) (“Fiscal Responsibility Law”) and the life quality of the population in the municipalities of the Zona da Mata Mineira, in relation to health. The aim is to measure the impact of the LRF in the life quality of the population. A time analysis of the data of the period from 2000 to 2010 was carried out, using the collection of secondary data. The statistic technique used was the average test. The results of this study showed that, in relation to the selected variables, there was an average of considerable progresses concerning this fact. All the variables researched obtained, in 2010, higher averages to those obtained in 2000. It is noticed that the LRF enabled higher financial power to the public health services, resulting in social welfare.
A European Account of Justice: Under Pressure of Subsidiarity?
Authors: Cools Dries
Published: April 2016

A European Account of Justice: Under Pressure of Subsidiarity?

This paper provides a dialectical-historical description of the EU's constitutional discourse. It is argued that the early Community's member state blind principle of justice implied the notion of a European political community and led to the establishment of fair procedures for decision making. This coming of age of an encompassing European constitutional narrative of justice and fairness prompted the question of the demarcation between the political role of the European political community and that of member states' political communities. The answer proved to be subsidiarity. However, subsidiarity has introduced national conceptions of justice in the Union's constitutional discourse, at the risk of making European justice dependent on national conceptions of justice.
Detailhandel – een dienst die geen dienst mag heten?
Authors: van der Gouw J.J. (Jaap) , Timmer M.J.W. (Matthijs)
Published: April 2016

Detailhandel – een dienst die geen dienst mag heten?

Naar aanleiding van wijzigingen van ruimtelijkeordeningswetgeving, de schorsing van enkele bepalingen van de Verordening ruimte 2014 van de provincie Zuid-Holland vanwege (vermeende) strijd met de Dienstenrichtlijn en prejudiciële vragen van de Afdeling bestuursrechtspraak aan het Hof van Justitie wordt in dit artikel de relatie tussen de Dienstenrichtlijn en de ruimtelijke ordening besproken.
Prazer, Beleza, Marca, Facilidade, Utilidade... O que Importa para os Jovens em um IPad?
Authors: Zampieri Grohmann Márcia , Silinske Jaqueline , Frohlich Marquetto Matheus , Flores Battistella Luciana
Published: April 2016

Os avanos tecnolgicos esto sendo criados mais rapidamente e com o objetivo de criar desejos e expectativas nos consumidores para que a venda seja realizada. Diante disso, o objetivo dessa pesquisa analisar a influncia das perspectivas emocional, esttica e ergonmica sobre a inteno de uso do Ipad. Os dados foram coletados por meio de um questionrio baseado em Tzou e Lu (2009), o qual foi aplicado para alunos do ensino mdio de uma escola estadual de Santa Maria/RS. A presente pesquisa quantitativa e descritiva. Como resultado, as relaes mais fortes encontradas foram entre avaliao de beleza do Ipad e o prazer de utilizar o Ipad (R2= 53,7%), seguido por o prazer de utilizar Ipad e a inteno de uso de Ipad pelos estudantes (R2= 35,3%).
Experiência do Consumidor no Varejo: Um Estudo Bibliométrico
Authors: Höpner Aline , Ganzer Paula Patrícia , Chais Cassiane , Olea Pelayo Munhoz
Published: April 2016

A preocupao dos varejistas com a experincia do consumidor no ambiente de loja evidencia o emprego de tcnicas sempre mais avanadas, visando criar experincias interessantes para os consumidores no ambiente de loja. Estes esforos, no entanto, podem, por vezes, no estar alinhados com as demandas dos consumidores, os quais revelam que suas experincias em loja, em grande medida, so influenciadas por valores tradicionais. O presente estudo tem como objetivo analisar como a experincia do consumidor no varejo tem sido discutida em publicaes nos principais peridicos da rea. Foi realizada a anlise bibliomtrica da produo cientfica sobre experincia do cliente e experincia do consumidor no varejo. A opo pela bibliometria decorre da crescente necessidade de avaliar os avanos e o desenvolvimento da cincia e da tecnologia, nas diversas reas do conhecimento. Observou-se relevante concentrao das publicaes nos anos mais recentes, em especial em 2013, o que demonstra a crescente preocupao dos estudiosos de marketing com o comportamento do consumidor no ambiente de varejo. A experincia do consumidor como uma rea de pesquisa vem ganhando espao nos peridicos e se mostrando como uma rea importante de estudo para o marketing de servios, em especial no varejo. Com o amadurecimento desse campo de estudo, surgem novas tendncias de pesquisa e ampliao do escopo de anlise do comportamento do consumidor. Conhecer as recentes descobertas empricas trazidas pelos estudos poder criar novo espao de discusso, embasado em elementos concretos, estudados, analisados e estruturados.
Health behavior in the Nordic countries
Authors: Ásgeirsdóttir Tinna Laufey , Gerdtham Ulf-G
Published: April 2016

This paper provides a descriptive analysis of the level of and change in cigarette smoking, excessive alcohol consumption and body weight in Nordic countries and compares them with non-Nordic OECD countries. Our results show that the average prevalence of daily smokers is significantly lower for Nordic countries compared to non-Nordic countries. Four out of five Nordic countries are below the non-Nordic average. However, for alcohol consumption and obesity, it is more difficult to see a clear difference between Nordic countries and non-Nordic countries. Sweden ranks relatively low on all three health behaviors, while alcohol consumption is relatively high in Finland and Denmark. Smoking rates are relatively high in Norway, while the obesity rate is relatively high in Iceland. We conclude that although Nordic populations are often perceived as relatively homogeneous in terms of cultural and political aspects, there are interesting differences in health behaviors within these Nordic countries. These differences need more focus in health-economics research and may have a significant potential in light of the availability of health surveys and administrative register data that can sometimes be linked at the individual level. Such Nordic analyses may, in general, help to move the research front forward and can also be used to predict changes in population health and to study the effectiveness of health economic policies.Published: April 2016.
The development of voluntary private health insurance in the Nordic countries
Authors: Alexandersen Nina , Anell Anders , Kaarboe Oddvar , Lehto Juhani S , Tynkkynen Liina-Kaisa , Vrangbaek Karsten
Published: April 2016

The Nordic countries represent an institutional setting with tax-based health care financing and universal access to health care services. Very few health care services are excluded from what are offered within the publically financed health care system. User fees are often non-existing or low and capped. Nevertheless, the markets for voluntary private health insurance (VPHI) have been rapidly expanding. In this paper we describe the development of the market for VPHI in the Nordic countries. We outline similarities and differences and provide discussion of the rationale for the existence of different types of VPHI. Data is collected on the population covered by VPHI, type and scope of coverage, suppliers of VPHI and their relations with health providers. It seems that the main roles of VPHI are to cover out-of-pocket payments for services that are only partly financed by the public health care system (complementary), and to provide preferential access to treatments that are also available free of charge within the public health care system, but often with some waiting time (duplicate).Published: April 2016.
General practice in the Nordic countries
Authors: Olsen Kim Rose , Anell Anders , Häkkinen Unto , Iversen Tor , Ólafsdóttir Thorhildur , Sutton Matt
Published: April 2016

Background: General practice systems in the Nordic countries share certain common features. The sector is based on the Nordic model of a tax-financed supply of services with a political objective of equal access for all. The countries also share the challenges of increased political expectations to deliver primary prevention and increased workload as patients from hospital care are discharged earlier. However, within this common framework, primary care is organized differently. This is particularly in relation to the private-public mix, remuneration systems and the use of financial and non-financial incentives. Objective: The objective of this paper is to compare the differences and similarities in primary care among the Nordic countries, to create a mapping of the future plans and reforms linked to remuneration and incentives schemes, and to discuss the pros and cons for these plans with reference to the literature. An additional objective is to identify gaps in the literature and future research opportunities. Results/Conclusions: Despite the many similarities within the Nordic health care systems, the primary care sectors function under highly different arrangements. Most important are the differences in the gate-keeping function, private versus salaried practices, possibilities for corporate ownership, skill-mix and the organisational structure. Current reforms and political agendas appear to focus on the side effects of the individual countries’ specific systems. For example, countries with salaried systems with geographical responsibility are introducing incentives for private practice and more choices for patients. Countries with systems largely based on private practice are introducing more monitoring and public regulation to control budgets. We also see that new governments tends to bring different views on the future organisation of primary care, which provide considerable political tension but few actual changes. Interestingly, Sweden appears to be the most innovative in relation to introducing new incentive schemes, perhaps because decisions are made at a more decentralised level.Published: April 2016.
The journey towards Africanising psychology in Ghana
Authors: Oppong Seth
Published: April 2016

Psychology has come a long way since its origin in Africa and Ghana in particular. In this paper, an attempt is made to explore the current state of psychological knowledge in Ghana as well as the associated problems in the application of such knowledge. It was concluded that the approach to the study and application of psychological knowledge and tests has been too Eurocentric and westernized. As a result, it limits the applicability of the approach to the African setting, and yet, Western theorists may expect African psychologists to apply the theories to Africans. On the basis of this criticism, the scope of Pan-African psychology is defined and suggestions for pursuing an Africanisation project are presented. It is expected that the strategies that this paper advocates for indigenizing psychology in Africa can equally be useful to psychologists in other developing regions of the world.
Ideological bases of institutional trust in eastern and western europe and the effect of motivated social cognition
Authors: Hadarics Márton
Published: April 2016

Our study investigates the assumption that citizens expect the democratic institutional system to operate in accordance with values and norms that are deeply embedded in public thinking of their country. As individual-level trust towards the institutional system is built mainly on these norms and values, our results show that differences between Eastern and Western European public thinking lead to asymmetries regarding the bases of institutional trust. Specifically, degree of income inequalities and perceived quality of welfare services seem to be more important factors in the postsocialist region in comparison with Western Europe. Furthermore, in accordance with the approach of motivated social cognition, we could also confirm that those with a higher level of conventionality motivation lean on normative ideological elements to a greater extent when they are indicating their personal level of institutional trust.
Use of Information Parameters as Criterion for Determination of Biological Activity of Hepatoprotective Preparations
Authors: David Areshidze  , Lyudmila Timchenko  , Maria Kozlova  , Igor Rzhepakovsky  , Ivan Syomin
Published: April 2016

Possibility of use of the information parameters characterizing adaptational and regenerative opportunities of tissue system of an organ as potential criteria for an assessment of biological activity of hepatoprotective preparations is investigated in this research. Influence of enzymatic hydrolyzate of Chlorophytum comosum (L.) on a morphofunctional condition of a liver of rats at experimental toxic damage of organ and in norm was studied. The assessment of morphofunctional condition of a liver under the influence of a preparation was carried out as with use of traditional morphological, biochemical and histologic parameters, and by means of information parameters, which were earlier used for an evaluation of the adaptative and regenerative opportunities of organs of mammals. As a result of research the hepatoprotective effect of enzymatic hydrolyzate of Chlorophytum comosum (L.) is confirmed both by dynamics of change of results of traditional techniques of an assessment and by informational parameters, that allows to draw a conclusion on possibility of use of information parameters as criterion for assesment of effectiveness of biostimulation.
Protein complexes in focus
Authors: Glaeser Robert M
Published: April 2016

A new advance in electron microscopy can reveal highly-detailed structures of protein complexes.
Bacteria associated with human saliva are major microbial components of Ecuadorian indigenous beers (chicha)
Authors: Freire Ana L. , Zapata Sonia , Mosquera Juan , Mejia Maria Lorena , Trueba Gabriel
Published: April 2016

Indigenous beers (chicha) are part of the indigenous culture in Ecuador. The fermentation process of these beers probably relies on microorganisms from fermented substrates, environment and human microbiota. We analyzed the microbiota of artisanal beers (including a type of beer produced after chewing boiled cassava) using bacterial culture and 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene-based tag-encoded FLX amplicon pyrosequencing (bTEFAP). Surprisingly, we found thatStreptococcus salivariusandStreptococcus mutans(part of the human oral microbiota) were among the most abundant bacteria in chewed cassava and in non-chewed cassava beers. We also demonstrated thatS. salivariusandS. mutans(isolated from these beers) could proliferate in cassava mush.Lactobacillussp. was predominantly present in most types of Ecuadorianchicha.
Ultrathin Indium Tin Oxide Accumulation Mode Electrolyte‐Gated Transistors for Bioelectronics
Authors: Migliaccio Ludovico , Say Mehmet Girayhan , Pathak Gaurav , Gablech Imrich , Brodský Jan , Donahue Mary Jocelyn , Daniel Głowacki Eric
Published: September 2024

Electrolyte‐gated field effect transistors and electrochemical transistors have emerged as powerful components for bioelectronic sensors and biopotential recording devices. A set of parameters must be considered when developing devices to amplify weak electrophysiological signals. These include maximum transconductance values, cut‐off frequencies, and large on/off current ratios. Organic polymer‐based devices have recently dominated the field, especially when considering flexibility as a key factor. Oxide semiconductors may also offer these features, as well as advantages like higher mobility. Herein, flexible, ultrathin, indium tin oxide (ITO) electrolyte‐gated transistors are reported. These accumulation‐mode devices combine n‐type operation with µe = 9.5 cm2 Vs−1, high transconductance (gm = 44 mS), and on/off ratios (105) as well as optically transparent layouts. While oxides are normally considered brittle, mechanically flexible ITO layers are obtained by room temperature deposition of amorphous layers onto parylene C. This process results in low strain, producing devices that survive bending. ITO electrochemically degrades, however, with cycling. To overcome this, the surface is passivated with high dielectric constant inert capping layers of Ta2O5 or Ta2O5/AlN. This greatly improves stability while preserving low gate voltages. Based on their overall performance, ITO‐based EGFETs are promising for bioelectronics.
Electrochemical Oxidative Functionalization of Pyrazolin‐5‐Ones: Access to 4‐Quinoxalinone‐Substistuted Pyrazoles
Authors: Zhang Shuai , Zhang Zhihua , Qin Changsheng , Hu Meiqian , Wang Jingfang , Ji Fanghua , Jiang Guangbin
Published: September 2024

A strategy for the preparation of 4‐quinoxalinone‐substituted pyrazole derivatives by electrochemical functionalization of pyrazolin‐5‐ones is reported. Quinoxalinones, possessing significant biological activities, serve as aryl sources and participate in the transformation under electrochemical conditions without the necessity of adding extra oxidants and catalysts. This method features one‐pot synthesis, scale‐up and late‐stage functionalization of bioactive molecule derivatives. Notably, activity testing reveals that some compounds exhibit superior inhibitory effects on the proliferation of A549 cells compared to 5‐fluorouracil.
Long‐term tillage and cover cropping differentially influenced soil nitrous oxide emissions from cotton cropping system
Authors: Dhaliwal Jashanjeet Kaur , Lussich Facundo R. , Jagadamma Sindhu , Schaeffer Sean M. , Saha Debasish
Published: September 2024

Climate‐smart agricultural practices, such as no‐tillage (NT) and cover cropping, have been widely adopted and are anticipated to yield multiple benefits, including soil carbon sequestration, enhancing soil health, and crop yield stability. However, their influence on nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions varies, with the potential of both increasing and decreasing N2O emissions. Increasing N2O emissions under these practices may potentially offset the climate mitigation benefits from increased soil carbon sequestration. We investigated N2O emissions in response to 42 years of long‐term adoption of NT and legume cover crop, under nitrogen (N) rates of 0 and 67 kg N ha−1, in a continuous cotton system in the Southeastern United States. Intensive manual chamber‐based measurements were conducted over two growing seasons (2021–2022 and 2022–2023). Long‐term NT did not significantly affect cumulative N2O emissions during the study period (p > 0.05). Hairy vetch cover crop‐grown plots emitted two to three times more N2O than those without cover crops in 2021–2022, with no significant effect observed in 2022–2023. Cumulative emissions in cover crop plots were greater compared to those in no cover crop plots when fertilized with 67 kg N ha−1 in 2021–2022; however, this trend did not persist in 2022–2023. While interannual variability exists, our results generally suggest that long‐term NT may not increase N2O emissions, hence its adoption could enhance its broader soil health and climate benefits via soil carbon sequestration, whereas managing legume cover crop residues in N‐fertilized systems is critical to mitigate N2O emissions.
Cover crop grazing length impacts on soil health and crop productivity in US Coastal Plain soils
Authors: Reiter Wade S. , Gamble Audrey V. , Crowell Hayley , Balkcom Kipling S. , Feng Yucheng , Dillard Leanne , Mullenix Kim , Prasad Rishi
Published: September 2024

Introducing integrated crop‐livestock systems into row crop production promotes income diversification and potential soil health benefits through cover crop grazing on degraded soils of the southeastern United States, but effects of these practices on crop yields and soil health in Coastal Plain soils are not well established. A 4‐year study was performed to evaluate the effects of grazing a multi‐species winter cover crop on soil health and crop yields under mid‐February, mid‐March, and mid‐April cattle removal dates and a non‐grazed control within an annual cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) and peanut crop rotation (Arachis hypogaea L.). Chemical soil health indicators (soil organic carbon and permanganate oxidizable carbon), physical soil health indicators (water‐stable aggregates and penetration resistance), biological soil health indicators (microbial biomass carbon, soil respiration, and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi colonization), crop yield, and cover crop biomass were evaluated. Cover crop biomass at termination was reduced by 3660, 5250, and 5610 kg ha−1 for the mid‐February, mid‐March, and mid‐April cattle removal treatments compared to the non‐grazed control. No grazing treatment effects were observed for biological soil properties. Soil organic carbon was higher in the non‐grazed treatment than the mid‐April grazing treatment across 0‐ to 30‐cm depth. Penetration resistance across 0‐ to 50‐cm depth and water‐stable aggregates at the 0‐ to 30‐cm depth were both negatively impacted by increased grazing period lengths. Results from this study suggest that longer cover crop grazing periods have little effect on biological and chemical soil health indicators in the short term but can negatively impact some physical soil health indicators.
Potential Predictor of Epigenetic Age Acceleration in Men: 2D:4D Finger Pattern
Authors: Pruszkowska‐Przybylska Paulina , Noroozi Rezvan , Rudnicka Joanna , Pisarek Aleksandra , Wronka Iwona , Kobus Magdalena , Wysocka Bożena , Ossowski Andrzej , Spólnicka Magdalena , Wiktorska Joanna , Iljin Aleksandra , Pośpiech Ewelina , Branicki Wojciech , Sitek Aneta
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Second to fourth digit ratio is widely known indicator of prenatal sex hormones proportion. Higher prenatal androgenization results in longer fourth finger and lower 2D:4D index. The aim of this study was to determine whether the 2D:4D digit ratio is associated with DNA methylation (DNAm) age dependently on sex.

Material and Methods

The study included 182 adults (106 females and 76 males) with a mean age of 51.5 ± 13 years. The investigation consisted of three main parts: a survey, anthropometric dimensions measurements (fingers length) and methylome analysis using collected blood samples. Genome‐wide methylation was analyzed using EPIC microarray technology. Epigenetic age and epigenetic age acceleration were calculated using several widely applied algorithms.

Results

Males with the female left hand pattern had more accelerated epigenetic age than those with the male pattern as calculated with PhenoAge and DNAmTL clocks.

Conclusions

Finger female pattern 2D:4D above or equal to 1 in males is associated with epigenetic age acceleration, indicating that prenatal exposure to estrogens in males may be related to aging process in the later ontogenesis.
Hydroxylierte Aryl‐Tetrazine als bioorthogonale Scheren zur systematischen Spaltung von trans‐Cyclooctenen
Authors: Wilkovitsch Martin , Kuba Walter , Keppel Patrick , Sohr Barbara , Löffler Andreas , Kronister Stefan , del Castillo Andres Fernandez , Goldeck Marion , Dzijak Rastislav , Rahm Michal , Vrabel Milan , Svatunek Dennis , Carlson Jonathan C. T. , Mikula Hannes
Published: September 2024

Bioorthogonale Bindungsspaltungsreaktionen haben sich als leistungsstarke Werkzeuge für die präzise zeitliche und räumliche Kontrolle (bio)molekularer Funktionen in biologischen Systemen etabliert. Unter diesen sticht die durch Click‐Reaktion mit Tetrazinen ausgelöste Eliminierung spaltbarer trans‐Cyclooctene (Click‐Spaltung, engl. Click‐to‐Release) aufgrund hoher Reaktionsraten sowie ihrer Vielseitigkeit und Selektivität hervor. Trotz des zunehmenden Verständnisses der zugrunde liegenden Mechanismen ist die Anwendung dieser Reaktion aufgrund unzureichender Eigenschaften (Click‐Kinetik, Spaltungskinetik, Spaltungseffizienz) der bestehenden Reagenzien eingeschränkt. Eine effiziente Spaltung war bisher auf Tetrazine mit vergleichsweise niedriger Click‐Reaktivität beschränkt, während hochreaktive Aryl‐Tetrazine nur eine minimale Spaltung erzielen. Durch die Einführung von Hydroxylgruppen an Phenyl‐ und Pyridyl‐Tetrazinen ist es uns gelungen, eine neue Klasse von ′bioorthogonalen Scheren′ mit hoher chemischer Leistungsfähigkeit zu entwickeln. Diese Hydroxyaryl‐Tetrazine erreichen eine nahezu quantitative Spaltung nach beschleunigter Click‐Reaktion mit unterschiedlichen spaltbaren trans‐Cyclooctenen, was durch die Click‐ausgelöste Aktivierung einer Wirkstoffvorstufe (engl. Prodrug), die intramitochondriale Spaltung einer fluorogenen Sonde in lebenden Zellen und die schnelle intrazelluläre bioorthogonale Spaltung eines Ligand‐Farbstoff‐Konjugats demonstriert wird.