bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Algorithms and complexity of range clustering
Authors: Hochbaum Dorit S.
Published: September 2018

We introduce a novel criterion in clustering that seeks clusters with limited range of values associated with each cluster's elements. In clustering or classification the objective is to partition a set of objects into subsets, called clusters or classes, consisting of similar objects so that different clusters are as dissimilar as possible. We propose a number of objective functions that employ the range of the clusters as part of the objective function. Several of the proposed objectives mimic objectives based on sums of similarities. These objective functions are motivated by image segmentation problems, where the diameter, or range of values associated with objects in each cluster, should be small. It is demonstrated that range‐based problems are in general easier, in terms of their complexity, than the analogous similarity‐sum problems. Several of the problems we present could therefore be viable alternatives to existing clustering problems which are NP‐hard, offering the advantage of efficient algorithms.
Sharp force trauma to a 1,000‐year‐old skull from the Jerusalem mountains
Authors: Nagar Yossi , Cohen Haim , Zissu Boaz
Published: September 2018

Well‐preserved human skull, two upper vertebral bodies, and bones of the right hand were found in a remote cave in the Jerusalem mountains. The individual was identified as an adult male, 30–40 years old, who was C‐14 dated to the 11th century. It was attributed to the local, Bedouin population. The skull manifested four sharp force trauma lesions, resulted from interpersonal violence in different occasions: Two represent past events, one is peri‐mortem, and one is the direct cause of death. The current manuscript describes the pathologies and discusses possible interpretations, which combine physical anthropology with archaeology, history, and ethnography altogether.
Drug release and biocompatibility of self‐assembled micelles prepared from poly (ɛ‐caprolactone/glycolide)‐poly (ethylene glycol) block copolymers
Authors: Su Feng , Sun Xiangke , Li Rongye , Wang Yuandou , Xi Laishun , Chen Yangsheng , Li Suming
Published: September 2018

A series of poly(ɛ‐caprolactone/glycolide)‐poly(ethylene glycol) (P(CL/GA)‐PEG) diblock copolymers were prepared by ring opening polymerization of a mixture of ɛ‐caprolactone and glycolide using mPEG as macro‐initiator and stannous octoate as catalyst. Self‐assembled micelles were prepared from the copolymers using nanoprecipitation method. The micelles were spherical in shape. The micelle size was larger for copolymers with longer PEG blocks. In contrast, the critical micelle concentration of copolymers increased with decreasing the overall hydrophobic block length. Drug loading and drug release studies were performed under in vitro conditions, using paclitaxel as a hydrophobic model drug. Higher drug loading was obtained for micelles with longer poly(ε‐caprolactone) blocks. Faster drug release was obtained for micelles of mPEG2000 initiated copolymers than those of mPEG5000 initiated ones. Higher GA content in the copolymers led to faster drug release. Moreover, drug release rate was enhanced in the presence of lipase from Pseudomonas sp., indicating that drug release is facilitated by copolymer degradation. The biocompatibility of copolymers was evaluated from hemolysis, dynamic clotting time, and plasma recalcification time tests, as well as MTT assay and agar diffusion test. Data showed that copolymer micelles present outstanding hemocompatibility and cytocompatibility, thus suggesting that P(CL/GA)‐PEG micelles are promising for prolonged release of hydrophobic drugs.
Construction of nanostructures in aqueous solution from amphiphilic glucose‐derived polycarbonates
Authors: Osumi Shota , Felder Simcha E. , Wang Hai , Lin Yen‐Nan , Dong Mei , Wooley Karen L.
Published: September 2018

Carbohydrates are the fundamental building blocks of many natural polymers, their wide bioavailability, high chemical functionality, and stereochemical diversity make them attractive starting materials for the development of new synthetic polymers. In this work, one such carbohydrate, d‐glucopyranoside, was utilized to produce a hydrophobic five‐membered cyclic carbonate monomer to afford sugar‐based amphiphilic copolymers and block copolymers via organocatalyzed ring‐opening polymerizations with 4‐methylbenzyl alcohol and methoxy poly(ethylene glycol) as initiator and macroinitiator, respectively. To modulate the amphiphilicities of these polymers acidic benzylidene cleavage reactions were performed to deprotect the sugar repeat units and present hydrophilic hydroxyl side chain groups. Assembly of the polymers under aqueous conditions revealed interesting morphological differences, based on the polymer molar mass and repeat unit composition. The initial polymers, prior to the removal of the benzylidenes, underwent a morphological change from micelles to vesicles as the sugar block length was increased, causing a decrease in the hydrophilic–hydrophobic ratio. Deprotection of the sugar block increased the hydrophilicity and gave micellar morphologies. This tunable polymeric platform holds promise for the production of advanced materials for implementation in a diverse range of applications. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2019, 57, 432–440
Accessible and Cost‐Effective Method of PDMS Microdevices Fabrication Using a Reusable Photopolymer Mold
Authors: Bourguignon Natalia , Olmos Carol M. , Sierra‐Rodero Marina , Peñaherrera Ana , Rosero Gustavo , Pineda Pedro , Vizuete Karla , Arroyo Carlos R. , Cumbal Luis , Lasorsa Carlos , Perez Maximiliano S. , Lerner Betiana
Published: September 2018

This work describes a novel and cost‐effective method of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) microchips fabrication by using a printing plate photopolymer called Flexcel as a master mold (Fmold). This method has demonstrated the ability to generate multiple devices from a single master, reaching a minimum channel size of 25 μm, structures height ranging from 53 to 1500 μm and achieving dimensions of 1270 × 2062 mm2, which are larger than those obtained by the known techniques to date. Scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, and profilometry techniques have been employed to characterize the Fmold and PDMS replicas. The results showed high replication fidelity of Fmold to the PDMS replica. Furthermore, it was proved the reusability of the Fmold. In our study, up to 50 PDMS replicas have been fabricated without apparent degradation of the mold. The feasibility of the resulting PDMS replica was effectively demonstrated using a microfluidic device for enhanced oil recovery analysis. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2018, 56, 1433–1442
Structure and optical properties of transparent polyamide 6 containing lithium bromide
Authors: Sato Yusuke , Ito Asae , Maeda Shuichi , Yamaguchi Masayuki
Published: September 2018

We investigated the effects of lithium bromide (LiBr) on the structure and properties of polyamide 6 (PA6). The strong ion–dipole interactions between lithium cations and the amide groups in PA6 greatly increased the glass transition temperature (Tg) and retarded the crystallization rate of PA6. As a result, compression‐molded PA6 blends were highly transparent and had high Tg values. The rheological terminal region was obvious in the blends because the ion–dipole interactions weakened at high temperatures. This indicates that the melt processability was barely affected by LiBr. We also evaluated the optical anisotropy of the polymer to determine its suitability as a functional optical film. We found that hot‐stretched blend films had large positive orientation birefringence with significantly weak wavelength dispersion, which can be attributed to the enhanced anisotropic polarizability of PA6. We also found that the stress‐optical coefficient in the glassy region decreased with increasing LiBr content. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2018, 56, 1513–1520
Patient‐reported outcomes of breast reconstruction in older women: Audit of a large metropolitan public/private practice in Sydney, Australia
Authors: Oh Daniel D. , Flitcroft Kathy , Brennan Meagan E. , Snook Kylie L. , Spillane Andrew J.
Published: September 2018

Objective

Older age is associated with lower rates of breast reconstruction (BR) for women requiring mastectomy. This study compared patient‐reported outcomes between women aged 60 years and older who had received mastectomy and BR with those who received no BR (NBR).

Methods

About 135 women aged 60 or over treated between 2009 and 2016 with mastectomy only (N = 87) or mastectomy with BR (N = 48) for primary breast cancer completed patient‐reported outcome measures using a set of validated questionnaires. Reasons for choosing or declining BR were also explored using a set of nonvalidated questionnaires.

Results

Patients who received BR were generally younger (P = <0.001) and reported greater satisfaction with their bodies (P = 0.048) than NBR patients. Patients with autologous reconstruction reported greater satisfaction with their breasts than implant‐based reconstruction patients. Both BR and NBR patients reported good quality of life, low pain scores, good body image, and low levels of decisional regret.

Conclusions

These data do not identify any quality of life‐related reasons to not offer clinically fit, well‐informed older women the option of BR.
A novel approach to the diagnosis and treatment of hemoptysis in infants: A case series
Authors: Zaidi S. Javed , Schweig Lorene , Patel Dhaval , Javois Alexander , Akhter Javeed
Published: September 2018

Introduction

Hemoptysis in children is an uncommon presenting symptom but can be life‐threatening if massive. Cardiac catheterization and coil embolization of aorto‐pulmonary collateral vessels (APCs) is uncommon in pediatric hemoptysis patients without congenital heart disease.

Methods

We present a series of seven infants (≤12 months of age) with hemoptysis, all of whom underwent cardiac catheterization to look for and intervene upon APCs, if found. Only those patients who underwent both bronchoscopy as well as cardiac catheterization from January 1995 to January 2015 were included in this retrospective review.

Results

Seven patients met inclusion criteria, and three had a history of recurrent hemoptysis. The mean age was 3 months. Four had evidence of bleeding on bronchoscopy. All seven had respiratory distress which necessitated ICU admission; five required mechanical ventilation. Cardiac catheterization showed significant APCs (>2 mm) in six of the seven studied patients, all of which were coil embolized. One patient had no significant APCs and therefore, no embolization. All patients had complete resolution with no recurrences during the 10‐20‐year outpatient follow‐up period. Chest CT scans were not helpful in delineating the site or etiology of bleeding in any patient.

Conclusions

APCs should be considered as a differential diagnosis for pulmonary hemorrhage in infants after more common causes have been ruled out.
Transcriptomic analysis of interactions between Hyphantria cunea larvae and nucleopolyhedrovirus
Authors: Sun Lili , Liu Peng , Sun Shouhui , Yan Shanchun , Cao Chuanwang
Published: September 2018

BACKGROUND

Hyphantria cunea is a destructive forest pest. To utilise H. cunea nucleopolyhedrovirus (HcNPV) for biological control, understanding insect‐virus interactions is essential.

RESULTS

Four cDNA libraries were constructed from H. cunea larvae (two HcNPV‐infected and two uninfected groups) and 76 004 expressed genes were obtained by next‐generation sequencing. Compared with controls, 272 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in infected groups, including 162 up‐regulated and 110 down‐regulated genes. Transcription levels of 20 random DEGs were consistent with the Solexa expression profiles obtained by quantitative real‐time PCR. DEGs associated with innate immunity were grouped into several categories, including pattern recognition proteins, heat‐shock proteins, UDP‐glycosyltransferases, cytochrome P450s, antimicrobial peptides and hormonal signalling proteins. Interestingly, up‐regulated host genes included farnesoic acid O‐methyltransferase, two juvenile hormone (JH) binding proteins, and a circadian clock‐controlled protein related to JH regulation. Pathway enrichment analysis indicates that mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) signalling pathways, key candidate genes and important biological pathways may be associated with molecular modification in H. cunea larvae in response to virus stress.

CONCLUSION

These findings provide insight for future research on the molecular mechanisms of HcNPV invasion and anti‐HcNPV mechanisms in H. cunea. A better understanding of gene regulation following HcNPV invasion could help to develop the virus as a bio‐insecticide. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Extreme floods and river values: A social–ecological perspective
Authors: Parsons Melissa
Published: September 2018

The social–ecological status of rivers is particularly pronounced during extreme flood events. Extreme floods are a substantial threat to people, infrastructure, and livelihoods. Efforts to address the threats of extreme floods are aligned largely with social values of flood risk mitigation, flood preparation, and avoidance of loss. However, extreme floods are also a fundamental driver of river ecosystems, aligned with ecological (biophysical) values of event effectiveness, river change, disturbance, biotic response, and heterogeneity. A survey of the public perceptions of extreme floods revealed that participants generally understood the ecological values of extreme floods through concepts of naturalness, climate change, and knowledge production. However, participants had less understanding of how river integrity might influence the response of rivers to extreme floods. Resilience can be used as a framework for uniting the social and ecological values of extreme floods because it embodies a common language of change, disturbance, and adaptation and complements the socially dominated discourse of risk and emergency management. Three strategies are given for river scientists to frame ecological values in parallel with the paradigms of the socially dominated discourse of extreme floods: be prepared to act following an extreme flood disaster, learn and use the language of the flood risk and emergency management sector, and undertake assessments of the ecological values of extreme floods to highlight the threats to those values that may occur with climate change and river modification.
Testing convexity of figures under the uniform distribution
Authors: Berman Piotr , Murzabulatov Meiram , Raskhodnikova Sofya
Published: September 2018

We consider the following basic geometric problem: Given , a 2‐dimensional black‐and‐white figure is ∊‐ far from convex if it differs in at least an ∊ fraction of the area from every figure where the black object is convex. How many uniform and independent samples from a figure that is ∊‐ far from convex are needed to detect a violation of convexity with constant probability? This question arises in the context of designing property testers for convexity.

We show that uniform samples (and the same running time) are necessary and sufficient for detecting a violation of convexity in an ∊‐far figure and, equivalently, for testing convexity of figures with 1‐sided error. Our algorithm beats the lower bound by Schmeltz [32] on the number of samples required for learning convex figures under the uniform distribution. It demonstrates that, with uniform samples, we can check if a set is approximately convex much faster than we can find an approximate representation of a convex set.
Hollow Zeolite Single Crystals: Synthesis Routes and Functionalization Methods
Authors: Tuel Alain , Farrusseng David
Published: September 2018

Hollow zeolite single crystals represent a new class of materials that have received considerable attention over the last decade. Besides facilitating the transport of molecules in zeolite crystals, the cavity present in hollow crystals offers many possibilities for encapsulating active species and constitutes a closed space that can be used as a nanoreactor. However, despite the simplicity of the concept, the synthesis of hollow zeolites is difficult, as it necessitates to control the chemistry and the spatial distribution of elements throughout the crystals. Here, the different strategies that can be used to transform bulk zeolite crystals into hollow analogs are reported. In particular, selective dissolution as well as dissolution–recrystallization methods are discussed in detail in the case of zeolites with mobile five (MFI) framework type. More sophisticated fabrication strategies are also described for two other major zeolites, namely, zeolites Beta and Y. Additionally, methods to introduce metal nanoparticles with controlled size and composition in the cavity are also addressed. The review ends with concluding remarks, including major challenges and future outlooks in the field.
Superdensity operators for spacetime quantum mechanics
Authors: Cotler Jordan , Jian Chao-Ming , Qi Xiao-Liang , Wilczek Frank
Published: September 2018

Abstract

We introduce superdensity operators as a tool for analyzing quantum information in spacetime. Superdensity operators encode spacetime correlation functions in an operator framework, and support a natural generalization of Hilbert space techniques and Dirac’s transformation theory as traditionally applied to standard density operators. Superdensity operators can be measured experimentally, but accessing their full content requires novel procedures. We demonstrate these statements on several examples. The superdensity formalism suggests useful definitions of spacetime entropies and spacetime quantum channels. For example, we show that the von Neumann entropy of a super-density operator is related to a quantum generalization of the Kolmogorov-Sinai entropy, and compute this for a many-body system. We also suggest experimental protocols for measuring spacetime entropies.
Climbing-Related Injury Among Adults in the United States: 5-Year Analysis of the National Emergency Department Sample
Authors: Forrester Joseph D. , Tran Kenneth , Tennakoon Lakshika , Staudenmayer Kristan
Published: September 2018

Introduction

Rock climbing and mountaineering are popular outdoor recreational activities. More recently, indoor climbing has become popular, which has increased the number of persons at risk for climbing-related injuries. The purpose of this study was to assess the morbidity, mortality, and healthcare cost due to climbing-related injury among persons presenting to US emergency departments (ED).

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of the 2010 to 2014 National Emergency Department Sample database, a nationally representative sample of all visits to US EDs. Rock climbing, mountain climbing, and wall climbing injuries were identified using International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification codes (E004.0). Outcomes evaluated included morbidity, mortality, inpatient admission, and costs. Adjusted analyses accounting for survey methodology were performed.

Results

A weighted-estimate 15,116 adult ED visits were associated with climbing-related injury. Patient age was 32.8±14.7 (mean±SD) (95% CI: 32.1−33.5) y, and 62% of patients were male. The majority of the injuries occurred in the Western census region (9593; 63%). Less than 1% of all climbing-related visits resulted in death. Only of injury severity score >15 was associated with death ( P = 0.005). A total of 1610 (11%) of patients were admitted as inpatients. Accounting for ED and inpatient costs, climbing-related injuries cost the US healthcare system approximately $102 (95% CI: $75−130) million USD for the 5-y period, averaging $20±9.5 million USD per y.

Conclusions

Most persons with climbing-related injuries presenting to EDs do not require inpatient admission. Although death is rare among patients with climbing-related injuries, the costs of injuries in survivors remain high.
A higher-order slender-body theory for axisymmetric flow past a particle at moderate Reynolds number
Authors: Khair Aditya S. , Chisholm Nicholas G.
Published: September 2018

Slender-body theory is utilized to derive an asymptotic approximation to the hydrodynamic drag on an axisymmetric particle that is held fixed in an otherwise uniform stream of an incompressible Newtonian fluid at moderate Reynolds number. The Reynolds number,$Re$, is based on the length of the particle. The axis of rotational symmetry of the particle is collinear with the uniform stream. The drag is expressed as a series in powers of$1/\text{ln}(1/\unicode[STIX]{x1D716})$, where$\unicode[STIX]{x1D716}$is the small ratio of the characteristic width to length of the particle; the series is asymptotic for$Re\ll O(1/\unicode[STIX]{x1D716})$. The drag is calculated through terms of$O[1/\text{ln}^{3}(1/\unicode[STIX]{x1D716})]$, thereby extending the work of Khayat & Cox (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 209, 1989, pp. 435–462) who determined the drag through$O[1/\text{ln}^{2}(1/\unicode[STIX]{x1D716})]$. The calculation of the$O[1/\text{ln}^{3}(1/\unicode[STIX]{x1D716})]$term is accomplished via the generalized reciprocal theorem (Lovalenti & Brady,J. Fluid Mech., vol. 256, 1993, pp. 561–605). The first dependence of the inertial contribution to the drag on the cross-sectional profile of the particle is at$O[1/\text{ln}^{3}(1/\unicode[STIX]{x1D716})]$. Notably, the drag is insensitive to the direction of travel at this order. The asymptotic results are compared to a numerical solution of the Navier–Stokes equations for the case of a prolate spheroid. Good agreement between the two is observed at moderately small values of$\unicode[STIX]{x1D716}$, which is surprising given the logarithmic error associated with the asymptotic expansion.
A single dose of beetroot juice improves endothelial function but not tissue oxygenation in pregnant women: a randomised clinical trial
Authors: Volino-Souza Mônica , de Oliveira Gustavo Vieira , Alvares Thiago Silveira
Published: September 2018

Beetroot juice (BJ) consumption has been associated with improved cardiovascular health owing to an increase in NO bioconversion. This study evaluates the effect of BJ consumption on macrovascular endothelial function (flow-mediated dilation (FMD)) and muscle oxygen saturation (StO2) parameters in pregnant women within a randomised, crossover, double-blind design in which twelve pregnant women consumed a single dose (140 ml) of BJ or placebo (PLA). Urinary nitrate was assessed before (T0) and 150 min after BJ/PLA consumption. FMD was used to evaluate macrovascular endothelial function, and near-IR spectroscopy was used to evaluate muscle StO2 parameters during the occlusion and reperfusion phases, which were taken at baseline (PRE) and 120 and 140 min after BJ/PLA consumption, respectively. A significant increase in urinary nitrate was observed at 150 min after BJ consumption when compared with T0 (BJ: 0·20 (sd 0·13) v. T0: 0·02 (sd 0·00), P=0·000) and PLA intervention (PLA: 0·02 (sd 0·00), P=0·001). FMD improved after BJ consumption when compared with PRE (BJ: 11·00 (sd 1·67) v. PRE: 5·53 (sd 1·17), P=0·000) and PLA (5·34 (sd 1·31), P=0·000). No significant difference between PLA and PRE in FMD (P=1·000) was observed. In StO2 parameters, a difference was not observed after BJ consumption compared with PRE and PLA intervention. The data demonstrate that a single dose of 140 ml of BJ consumption improves macrovascular endothelial function, but not StO2 parameters.
Homosexuality and Comradeship: Destabilizing the Hegemonic Masculine Ideal in Nazi Germany
Authors: Crouthamel Jason
Published: September 2018

This article looks at the experiences and perspectives of homosexual men in Nazi Germany—in particular, at homosexual veterans of World War I. How did homosexual men perceive “hegemonic masculinity” and ideals of comradeship during the Third Reich? The central argument is that the Nazi regime's emphasis on heterosexuality as an essential masculine trait was contested by homosexual veterans, who attempted to exert agency by actively defining notions of “masculinity,” the nature of their homosexuality, as well as their status in theVolksgemeinschaft(people's community). The ways in which homosexual men perceived homosexuality in relation to hegemonic masculine norms were diverse: whereas some tried to argue for the compatibility of homosexuality and martial masculinity, those who were arrested often distanced themselves from their homosexual identity. The testimonies of veterans, available in Gestapo police interrogation records, suggest how subjective constructions of sexual identity both undermined and reinforced hegemonic masculine ideals.
Prefrontal glutamate levels predict altered amygdala–prefrontal connectivity in traumatized youths
Authors: Ousdal Olga Therese , Milde Anne Marita , Craven Alexander R. , Ersland Lars , Endestad Tor , Melinder Annika , Huys Quentin J. , Hugdahl Kenneth
Published: September 2018

Background

Neurobiological models of stress and stress-related mental illness, including post-traumatic stress disorder, converge on the amygdala and the prefrontal cortex (PFC). While a surge of research has reported altered structural and functional connectivity between amygdala and the medial PFC following severe stress, few have addressed the underlying neurochemistry.

Methods

We combined resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging measures of amygdala connectivity with in vivo MR-spectroscopy (1H-MRS) measurements of glutamate in 26 survivors from the 2011 Norwegian terror attack and 34 control subjects.

Results

Traumatized youths showed altered amygdala–anterior midcingulate cortex (aMCC) and amygdala–ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC) connectivity. Moreover, the trauma survivors exhibited reduced levels of glutamate in the vmPFC which fits with the previous findings of reduced levels of Glx (glutamate + glutamine) in the aMCC (Ousdal et al., 2017) and together suggest long-term impact of a traumatic experience on glutamatergic pathways. Importantly, local glutamatergic metabolite levels predicted the individual amygdala–aMCC and amygdala–vmPFC functional connectivity, and also mediated the observed group difference in amygdala–aMCC connectivity.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that traumatic stress may influence amygdala–prefrontal neuronal connectivity through an effect on prefrontal glutamate and its compounds. Understanding the neurochemical underpinning of altered amygdala connectivity after trauma may ultimately lead to the discovery of new pharmacological agents which can prevent or treat stress-related mental illness.
The Anatomy of Courage in Aristotle'sNicomachean Ethics
Authors: Pangle Lorraine Smith
Published: September 2018

This paper analyzes Aristotle's discussion of courage, the first and paradigmatic virtue in his account of moral virtue, as the perfection of human beings’ natures as both political and rational. It identifies unrecognized complexities in his definition of courage as “a mean with respect to fear and confidence,” in his subtle analysis of political courage, and especially in what he reveals to be the conflict-riddled reasons people find courage noble and good. While working to moderate the excessive fieriness of traditional heroism and to render citizens’ courage more sober and moderate, Aristotle shows why political courage can in fact never be made perfectly rational, pointing to a key limit to human rationality altogether.
Accurate evaluation of the conditions for generation of quantum effects in relativistic interactions between laser and electron beams
Authors: Popa Alexandru
Published: September 2018

The quantum behavior of the system composed of an electron in an electromagnetic field is described by the Dirac equation, whose solution is a wave function represented by a column matrix with four components. We prove, without using any approximation, that these components can be put in a form which reveals directly the values of the electron energy, laser beam intensity, or amplitude of the electric field intensity, for which the quantum electrodynamics effects are generated. Our results are in good agreement with the experimental data reported in the literature. We prove that the four components of the wave function verify the continuity equation of quantum electrodynamics. Our treatment is in good agreement with the Compton relation. We show that the interaction of electrons with laser beams could be modeled using classical approaches regardless of the laser beam intensity as long as the electrons are non-relativistic, in agreement with published experimental data.
The HOMFLY-PT polynomials of sublinks and the Yokonuma–Hecke algebras
Authors: Poulain d’Andecy L. , Wagner E.
Published: September 2018

We describe completely the link invariants constructed using Markov traces on the Yokonuma–Hecke algebras in terms of the linking matrix and the Hoste–Ocneanu–Millett–Freyd–Lickorish–Yetter–Przytycki–Traczyk (HOMFLY-PT) polynomials of sublinks.
Wine with a Bouquet of Biodiversity: Assessing Agricultural Adoption of Conservation Practices in Chile
Authors: Márquez-García Marcela , Jacobson Susan K. , Barbosa Olga
Published: September 2018

Promoting conservation practices in agriculture to protect biodiversity of rare Mediterranean ecosystems is nowhere more critical than in Chile, where less than 2% of the Mediterranean region is formally protected. We used the theory of planned behaviour to assess what influences Chilean winegrowers’ conservation behaviour and tested whether a sustainability programme was effective. We compared winegrowers involved in the programme with a comparison group, using semi-structured interviews at 23 wineries to determine predictors of conservation practice adoption at vineyards. The intervention group had higher levels of conservation behaviour than the comparison group and practised integrated pest management and exotic species control more frequently. Managers’ views on conservation practices as doing ‘what is right’ with regards to nature and the environment were evident in both groups. However, programme winegrowers recognized more cultural benefits of nature and reported a broader spectrum of organizational and community stakeholder influence. Economic resources were perceived as a major barrier, as well as the lack of data connecting biodiversity conservation with wine quality and production. This study demonstrates the multidimensional nature of winegrowers’ motivations and barriers for adopting conservation practices, which is critical to addressing the significant challenges facing biodiversity conservation and the promotion of sustainable agricultural systems.
Scenarios of Land Use and Land Cover Change and Their Multiple Impacts on Natural Capital in Tanzania
Authors: Capitani Claudia , van Soesbergen Arnout , Mukama Kusaga , Malugu Isaac , Mbilinyi Boniface , Chamuya Nurdin , Kempen Bas , Malimbwi Rogers , Mant Rebecca , Munishi Panteleo , Njana Marco Andrew , Ortmann Antonia , Platts Philip J. , Runsten Lisen , Sassen Marieke , Sayo Philippina , Shirima Deo , Zahabu Elikamu , Burgess Neil D. , Marchant Rob
Published: September 2018

Reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation plus the conservation of forest carbon stocks, sustainable management of forests and enhancement of forest carbon stocks in developing countries (REDD+) requires information on land-use and land-cover changes (LULCCs) and carbon emission trends from the past to the present and into the future. Here, we use the results of participatory scenario development in Tanzania to assess the potential interacting impacts on carbon stock, biodiversity and water yield of alternative scenarios where REDD+ is or is not effectively implemented by 2025, a green economy (GE) scenario and a business as usual (BAU) scenario, respectively. Under the BAU scenario, LULCCs will cause 296 million tonnes of carbon (MtC) national stock loss by 2025, reduce the extent of suitable habitats for endemic and rare species (mainly in encroached protected mountain forests) and change water yields. In the GE scenario, national stock loss decreases to 133 MtC. In this scenario, consistent LULCC impacts occur within small forest patches with high carbon density, water catchment capacity and biodiversity richness. Opportunities for maximizing carbon emission reductions nationally are largely related to sustainable woodland management, but also contain trade-offs with biodiversity conservation and changes in water availability.
The Art of Rhetoric: Perceptions of the International Criminal Court and Legalism
Authors: KOTECHA BIRJU
Published: September 2018

Perceptions of the International Criminal Court have undergone a deep malaise, particularly on the African continent. The frequent target of these perceptions is the Court’s Office of the Prosecutor; its prosecutorial selections have generated the most trenchant criticism of bias. These perceptions, often amplified by political elites and hostile media coverage, risk damaging the Court’s perceived legitimacy among its most essential audience: affected communities. These communities are crucial to the achievement of the Court’s goals, and are those within which justice must be seen to be done. In this light, this article conducts an analysis of the Office’s rhetoric and its ability to persuade affected communities that the Court is politically independent. The article outlines how the Office’s public communications express a key message of legalism; a belief in technical rule-compliance and in law’s superiority to politics. Using a classic Aristotelian framework, I argue that legalism lacks persuasiveness; it makes a weak appeal to the Prosecutor’s reputation, has a limited appeal in eliciting emotional support, and, is not a sufficiently logical explanation of the Court’s independence. In summary, legalism is a weak tactic of legitimation and a well-worn progress narrative. The article’s analysis has implications for other international institutions and the rhetoric they adopt to legitimate their independence. More specifically, the article concludes with recommendations that can help the Office reflect on its rhetoric and thus, develop a meaningful dialogue to those comm unities that are the Court’s raison d’être.
Highlighting inequalities in the histories of human rights: Contestations over justice, needs and rights in the 1970s
Authors: DEHM JULIA
Published: September 2018

This article considers the ways in which concerns about economic equalities, both among and within countries, were taken up in human rights debates of the 1970s and how concerns about economic inequalities impacted on discussions about the possibilities, objectives and conceptions of rights. It shows how scholars and advocates from the global South, concerned about the production of underdevelopment and unequal accumulation, advocated a more ‘structural approach’ to human rights during this period that argued that a just international order was necessary for the realization of rights. The article first considers Third World demands for a New International Economic Order to address inequalities among countries, as well as the potentially conflicting focus on inequalities within countries by the World Bank and its subsequent promotion of a ‘basic needs’ approach to development. Thereafter, it considers how these different approaches to economic inequality were taken up in and influenced human rights debates and frameworks of this period.
Embryonic development of teleostBrycon orbignyanus
Authors: Ganeco-Kirschnik Luciana Nakaghi , Franceschini-Vicentini Irene Bastos , Faria Paes Maria do Carmo , Nakaghi Laura Satiko Okada
Published: September 2018

Brycon orbignyanusis an important large teleost that is currently on the list of endangered species, therefore studies on its reproductive biology and embryology are fundamental to help species conservation and recovery. The objective of this research was to characterize the events that occur during extrusion, fertilization and embryonic development of the species. The samples were collected at predetermined times, fixed and processed for light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The greenish oocytes were spherical, had translucent chorion and a mean diameter of 1.3±0.11 mm. The eggs had well defined animal and vegetative poles approximately 18 min post-fertilization. Stages from 2 to 128 blastomeres occurred between 20 min and 3 h post-fertilization (hPF), when the morula was characterized. The blastula stage was observed between 2 and 3 hPF, and the gastrula between 3 and 7 hPF, when the embryonic shield emerged and the cellular migration with the consequent formation of epiblast and hypoblast. At 8 hPF, the formation of the neural tube, above the notochord and the encephalic region, was observed, delimiting the forebrain, mesencephalon and rhombencephalon regions. From 11 hPF onward, the optic vesicle was formed close to the forebrain and the embryo tail was well developed. The optic vesicle was observed from 12 hPF onward, and the tail showed an intense movement that culminated with the rupture of the chorion and consequent hatching of the larva at 13 hPF and 27°C.
Spermatic mitochondria: role in oxidative homeostasis, sperm function and possible tools for their assessment
Authors: Losano João Diego de Agostini , Angrimani Daniel de Souza Ramos , Ferreira Leite Roberta , Simões da Silva Bárbara do Carmo , Barnabe Valquíria Hyppolito , Nichi Marcilio
Published: September 2018

Despite sperm mitochondrial relevance to the fertilization capacity, the processes involved in the production of ATP and functional dynamics of sperm mitochondria are not fully understood. One of these processes is the paradox involved between function and formation of reactive oxygen species performed by the organelle. Therefore, this review aimed to provide data on the role of sperm mitochondria in oxidative homeostasis and functionality as well the tools to assess sperm mitochondrial function.
Die körperliche Untersuchung des «unkooperativen» älteren Patienten
Authors: Schlögl Mathias , Schietzel Simeon , Kunz Roland , Savaskan Egemen , Kressig Reto W. , Riese Florian
Published: September 2018

Zusammenfassung. Die körperliche Untersuchung unkooperativer älterer Patienten stellt Ärzte in der Praxis, im Spital oder im Pflegeheim regelmässig vor grosse Herausforderungen. Der Mangel an Kooperation selbst kann dabei ein wichtiger Hinweis auf eine unterliegende medizinische Problematik sein. Wichtige Elemente, um die Kooperation des Patienten zu verbessern, beinhalten das Sicherstellen von Grundbedürfnissen, ausreichend Zeit und Geduld, eine adäquate Kommunikation sowie eine gute Zusammenarbeit mit den Angehörigen und den anderen medizinischen Fachpersonen. Eine gezielte klinische Beobachtung sowie das Denken in geriatrischen Syndromen und Bedürfnissen kann helfen, körperliche Befunde trotz eingeschränkter Kooperation zu erheben. Pathologische Befunde sind dabei Indikatoren für gestörte Organ- und Funktionssysteme und müssen unbedingt durch eine Detailuntersuchung ergänzt werden.
Getting Your Paper Published Part 1: Don’t Annoy the Reviewers
Authors: Robock Alan
Published: September 2018

Recommendations from an AGU journal editor on how to prepare a manuscript in a way that makes it easy for reviewers to read and assess.
New Achievements in Coastal Altimetry
Authors: Restano Marco , Passaro Marcello , Benveniste J�r�me
Published: September 2018

11th Coastal Altimetry Workshop; Frascati, Italy, 12–15 June 2018
Hack Weeks Gaining Ground in the Earth and Space Sciences
Authors: Duncombe Jenessa
Published: September 2018

Workshops that fuse traditional learning with Silicon Valley–inspired “hack sessions” are giving scientists a new venue to build community and sharpen their skills.
Congress Spars over Environmental Permitting
Authors: Showstack Randy
Published: September 2018

Democrats say that there is bipartisan support to reduce red tape but that environmental regulations shouldn’t be weakened to speed up the permitting process.
Uncertainty Quantification for Subsurface Flow and Transport: Coping With Nonlinearity/Irregularity via Polynomial Chaos Surrogate and Machine Learning
Authors: Meng J. , Li H.
Published: September 2018

Subsurface flow and transport problems usually involve some degree of uncertainty. Polynomial chaos expansion can be used as surrogate of physical models for uncertainty quantification. However, a global model can hardly be found for model responses with strong nonlinearity or irregularity. In this study, we propose a novel approach by use of the classification method in machine learning, that is, supported vector machine, to cope with such nonlinearity/irregularity. Piecewise surrogate models are constructed in relatively smooth subdomains separated by the supported vector machine hyperplanes. We demonstrate the effectiveness of using the trained piecewise surrogate model in solute transport and two‐phase flow problems in homogeneous and heterogeneous porous media. The numerical results are compared with standard global polynomial chaos expansion results and the Monte Carlo benchmark. The proposed nonintrusive approach is able to accurately quantify uncertainty, with much smaller computational efforts.
Flow, Flux, and Feeding in Freshwater Mussels
Authors: Mistry Rakesh , Ackerman Josef D.
Published: September 2018

Unionid mussels are important constituents of aquatic systems that are affected by anthropogenic changes in hydrology and concomitant increases in suspended solids, yet little is known about the effects of flow on their suspension feeding. We examined the clearance rates (CRs) of four species of freshwater mussels (Lampsilis siliquoidea, Lampsilis fasciola, Ligumia nasuta, and Villosa iris) to determine whether they feed selectively on river seston and how this may vary with algal flux (concentration × velocity). The CR for the Lampsilis species was also determined using seston particle size, particle fluorescence, and algal taxon. The CR of all species increased linearly with flow chamber velocity, but exhibited saturation‐like kinetics with increasing algal flux. The CRs of Lampsilis species were higher for larger (>10 μm) versus smaller (<10 μm) particles, the latter of which were numerically dominant in river seston. The CR of Lampsilis mussels on most of the algal taxa declined (linearly or nonlinearly) with algal flux indicating that mussels have reduced ability to discriminate among algae at higher flux. This potential feeding limitation could affect mussel growth and survival and make unionids vulnerable to the aforementioned hydrological changes. Ecologically, differential use of algal taxa under different algal flux indicates selective feeding, which may be evidence of resource partitioning for mussel species that occupy the same rivers. The differential use of algal taxa under different algal flux within a mussel species indicates the complex nature of bivalve feeding, their habitat requirements, and their vulnerability to human impacts.
Comparison of two different ecological floating bio-reactors for pollution control in hyper-eutrophic freshwater
Authors: Cui Naxin , Chen Guifa , Liu Yaqin , Zhou Li , Cai Min , Song Xiangfu , Zou Guoyan
Published: September 2018

The use of ecological floating beds (EFBs) to control water pollution has been increasingly reported worldwide due to the severe situation of eutrophication in water bodies. In this study, two kinds of EFBs were set up under similar condition to compare their purification efficiency in hyper-eutrophic water. The conventional ecological floating bed (CEFB) was made of polystyrene foam board, and the enhanced ecological floating bio-reactor (EEFB) was designed as an innovative hollow, thin floating bed integrated with substrates of zeolite and limestone. The results showed that the EEFB increased treatment efficiency of total nitrogen (TN), total phosphate (TP), and ammonia nitrogen (NH4+-N) to 63.5%, 59.3%, and 68.0%, respectively. Plant accumulation was the main pathway for TN and TP removal in the CEFB. Microbial degradation played an increasingly important role in TN and TP removal in the EEFB. A higher concentration of nitrogen cycling bacteria was recorded in the EEFB than the CEFB (P < 0.05), suggesting that the substrates might enhanced the removal efficiency of the EEFB by promoting the growth of microorganisms rather than their absorption effect.
Anti-fibrotic impact of Carvedilol in a CCl-4 model of liver fibrosis via serum microRNA-200a/SMAD7 enhancement to bridle TGF-β1/EMT track
Authors: El-Wakeel Sara A. , Rahmo Rania M. , El-Abhar Hanan S.
Published: September 2018

Circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) play a role in modulating the prevalence of fibrosis and have been a target of the cardiac anti-fibrotic effect of Carvedilol. However, the impact of miRNAs on the hepatoprotective effect of this non-selective β-blocker has not been yet elucidated. Hence, the current goal is to evaluate the potential role of circulating miR-200a in the hepatic anti-fibrotic pathway of Carvedilol. Male Wistar rats were randomized into normal, CCl4 (2 ml/kg, i.p, twice weekly for 8 weeks), and CCl4 + Carvedilol (10 mg/kg, p.o, daily). Carvedilol over-expressed the circulating miR-200a to modulate epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers (vimentin, E-Cadherin). In turn, Carvedilol increased SMAD7 gene expression and protein content to attenuate the pro-fibrogenic marker transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) and the inflammatory markers (p-38 MAPK and p-S536-NF-κB p65). The anti-fibrotic potential was reflected on the decreased expression of the mesenchymal product and EMT marker α-SMA, besides the improved histopathological examination, and the fibrosis scores/collagen quantification to enhance liver functions (AST, ALT, ALP, and AST/platelet ratio index; APRI). In conclusion, circulating miR-200a/SMAD7/TGF-β1/EMT/MAPK axis is crucial in the hepatic anti-fibrotic mechanism of Carvedilol.
Compound-specific δ15N composition of free amino acids in moss as indicators of atmospheric nitrogen sources
Authors: Zhu Ren-guo , Xiao Hua-Yun , Zhang Zhongyi , Lai Yuanyuan
Published: September 2018

Haplocladium microphyllum moss samples were collected in Nanchang, China. Free amino acid (FAA) concentrations and N isotope compositions (δ15NFAA) in the samples were determined and compared with the bulk N concentrations and δ15Nbulk values. The aim was to determine whether δ15NFAA values in moss (which are very variable) indicate the sources of atmospheric N. The δ15NFAA values among individual FAA varied widely (from −19.3‰ to +16.1‰), possibly because of the different sources of N and isotope fractionation in amino acids metabolic pathways. Total 15N-enrichment for the individual FAAs was equal to total 15N-depletion relative to δ15Nbulk. The concentration-weighted mean δ15N value for total FAAs (TFAA) (δ15NTFAA) was −3.1‰ ± 3.2‰, which was similar to δ15Nbulk (−4.0‰ ± 2.9‰). We concluded that a N isotope balance occurred during amino acid metabolism and that little isotope disparity occurred between the concentration-weighted TFAA and bulk N. We concluded that δ15NTFAA ≈ δ15Nbulk ≈ δ15Nsource. The mean δ15Nalanine (−4.1‰), δ15Nglutamate (−4.2‰), and δ15Nlysine (−4.0‰) were similar to the mean δ15Nbulk, which we attributed to little isotope fractionation occurring during their in situ the metabolic pathways. This suggests that δ15Nalanine, δ15Nglutamate, and δ15Nlysine in moss can be used to indicate the sources of atmospheric N deposition.