bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Smart Cities in Taiwan: A Perspective on Big Data Applications
Authors: Wu Shiann , Chen Tsung-chun , Wu Yenchun , Lytras Miltiadis
Published: January 2018

In this paper, we discuss the concept of a smart city based on information and communication technology (ICT), analyze the objectives of smart city development in Taiwan, and explain the supporting technologies that make such development possible. Subsequently, we propose a hierarchical structure framework of smart city systems with levels of complexity ranging from low to high and interconnections and interactive relationships in five dimensions: the Internet of Things (IoT), cloud computing, Big Data, Mobile Network, and smart business. We integrate each key resource of the core operation systems of cities to promote the innovative operation of cities and further optimize city development. We then propose a Big Data platform data flow framework that uses information from ubiquitous sensor networks and information equipment to analyze the Big Data application process of smart cities and determine the resulting advantages and challenges. Additionally, we analyze the current state of development of smart cities in Taiwan. Finally, we discuss a new philosophy of smart city development and provide a practical blueprint for the formation, operation, and development of the smart cities with the aim of creating a bright future for the smart cities of Taiwan.
Knowledge-Perception Bridge of Green-Smart Integration of Cities: An Empirical Study of Hong Kong
Authors: Chan Chung-Shing , Marafa Lawal
Published: January 2018

Cities often thematize themselves as attractive and sustainable places by adopting some emerging concepts of urban development. Green city and smart city are two of these themes that contain distinctive but often overlapping attributes. These green and smart city attributes, as proposed in previous studies, are tested with a sample of Hong Kong residents (n = 243). This paper identifies the factors in a combined green–smart theme of Hong Kong based on local perception. The empirical results confirm that local residents believe Hong Kong is performing smarter than greener. The findings from factor analysis reveal a combined green–smart structure consisting of one mixed green–smart infrastructural elements and six other specific factors about greenness or smartness. Regression also builds up two models showing the locally-perceived determinants of a successful green city and smart city for Hong Kong, respectively. This study reflects a complexity–simplicity paradox of how decision makers should respond to a knowledge–perception gap. The result further confirms that human factor, including the engagement and the quality of societal actors, is the key to successful green and smart urban development.
Determination of Multi-Class Mycotoxins in Tartary Buckwheat by Ultra-Fast Liquid Chromatography Coupled with Triple Quadrupole Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Ren Guixing , Hu Yichen , Zhang Jinming , Zou Liang , Zhao Gang
Published: January 2018

Considering crops are susceptible to toxicogenic fungi during plantation, pre-processing and storage, an ultra-fast liquid chromatography coupled with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (UFLC-QTrap-MS/MS) method was developed and validated for simultaneous determination of the 12 most frequent mycotoxins, including aflatoxin B1, B2, G1, G2, HT-2, T-2 toxin, ochratoxin A, fumonisin B1, B2, zearalanone, zearalenone, and deoxynivalenol, in 14 batches of Tartary buckwheat cultivar, collected from different origins in Sichuan Province, China. Differing from those complicated approaches, a simple and cost-efficient pretreatment method based on dilute-and-shoot was employed. Based on optimized chromatographic and mass spectrometry conditions, these 12 mycotoxins could be analyzed with high correlation coefficients (all over 0.995), high precision (RSD 0.47–9.26%), stability (RSD 0.72–11.36%), and recovery (79.52% to 108.92%, RSD 4.35–14.27%). Furthermore, this analysis method exhibited good determination performance with little disturbance of the matrix effect. Finally, this proposed method was applied for 14 batches of Tartary buckwheat seeds, in which aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) was detected in one moldy cultivar, Meigu No. 2, with its concentration exceeding the maximum residue limits set by EU regulations. The method thus established, which has significant advantages, could provide a preferred determination approach candidate for measurement of multiple mycotoxins measurement in Tartary buckwheat, even other kinds of foodstuffs.
E3L and F1L Gene Functions Modulate the Protective Capacity of Modified Vaccinia Virus Ankara Immunization in Murine Model of Human Smallpox
Authors: Volz Asisa , Jany Sylvia , Freudenstein Astrid , Lantermann Markus , Ludwig Holger , Sutter Gerd
Published: January 2018

The highly attenuated Modified Vaccinia virus Ankara (MVA) lacks most of the known vaccinia virus (VACV) virulence and immune evasion genes. Today MVA can serve as a safety-tested next-generation smallpox vaccine. Yet, we still need to learn about regulatory gene functions preserved in the MVA genome, such as the apoptosis inhibitor genes F1L and E3L. Here, we tested MVA vaccine preparations on the basis of the deletion mutant viruses MVA-ΔF1L and MVA-ΔE3L for efficacy against ectromelia virus (ECTV) challenge infections in mice. In non-permissive human tissue culture the MVA deletion mutant viruses produced reduced levels of the VACV envelope antigen B5. Upon mousepox challenge at three weeks after vaccination, MVA-ΔF1L and MVA-ΔE3L exhibited reduced protective capacity in comparison to wildtype MVA. Surprisingly, however, all vaccines proved equally protective against a lethal ECTV infection at two days after vaccination. Accordingly, the deletion mutant MVA vaccines induced high levels of virus-specific CD8+ T cells previously shown to be essential for rapidly protective MVA vaccination. These results suggest that inactivation of the anti-apoptotic genes F1L or E3L modulates the protective capacity of MVA vaccination most likely through the induction of distinct orthopoxvirus specific immunity in the absence of these viral regulatory proteins.
When Veterinarians Support Canine Therapy: Bidirectional Benefits for Clinics and Therapy Programs
Authors: Binfet John-Tyler , Silas Haley , Longfellow Sean , Widmaier-Waurechen Katrina
Published: January 2018

This paper proposes a mutually beneficial model of collaboration between veterinarians and canine therapy programs. Veterinarians and the clinics for whom they work routinely establish collaborations with multiple and varied stakeholders. This might include a laboratory for processing samples and the corresponding courier company needed to deliver samples to the lab or a partnership with a local dog rescue organization for whom discounted rates are offered. One community partnership that stands to benefit both the clinic and the community agency, is for veterinarians to work in tandem with a local canine-assisted therapy program. The benefits to such an alliance are multifold and address aspects of veterinary medicine including client recruitment, community education, and access to a network of devoted dog enthusiasts.
Uptake of Zn2+ and As3+ from Wastewater by Adsorption onto Imine Functionalized Magnetic Nanoparticles
Authors: Ojemaye Mike , Okoh Omobola , Okoh Anthony
Published: January 2018

In this paper, imine functionalized magnetic nanoparticles (MNP-Maph) were employed to aqueous solutions for the uptake of Zn(II) and As(III). Characterization of the material showed the successful synthesis of this material. Factors affecting the uptake of metal ions in aqueous solution such as change in pH, time, adsorbent dose, adsorbate concentration, and temperature were investigated and optimized to determine the best experimental conditions for the effective adsorption of Zn(II) and As(III) from wastewater samples. The adsorption capacity of MNP-Maph followed similar patterns as that of amine functionalized magnetic nanoparticles (MNP-NH2) for the uptake of both metal ions from aqueous solution when solution pH was varied. Higher pH values favored the uptake of Zn(II) and As(III) by using both adsorbents. Also, increasing the contact time and temperature yielded a higher uptake of Zn(II) and As(III). Both processes can best be described with a pseudo-second order kinetic model, while the Langmuir maximum adsorption capacity (qm) for Zn(II) increased from 35.83 to 54.53 mg g−1, and for As(III) from 50.08 to 57.60 mg g−1. Of note is that the qm of As(III) was higher than that of Zn(II) because of the lower concentration of As(III) in solution compared to that of Zn(II), and thermodynamic parameters indicated that the adsorption processes were heat absorbing and rapid in nature. Experiments to evaluate if the adsorbent could be recycled showed excellent recyclability capacity of MNP-Maph after seven runs. Lastly, application of MNP-Maph for the uptake of Zn(II) and As(III) from municipal wastewater samples showed remarkable sorption performance confirming the potential of imine functionalized magnetic nanoparticles as an excellent adsorbent for the uptake of metal ions from aqueous solutions.
The Effect of Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary Wastewater Treatment Processes on Antibiotic Resistance Gene (ARG) Concentrations in Solid and Dissolved Wastewater Fractions
Authors: Quach-Cu Jennipher , Herrera-Lynch Bellanira , Marciniak Christine , Adams Scott , Simmerman April , Reinke Ryan
Published: January 2018

Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) have been identified as potential sources of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) but the effects of tertiary wastewater treatment processes on ARGs have not been well characterized. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine the fate of ARGs throughout a tertiary-stage WWTP. Two ARGs, sul1 and bla, were quantified via quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) in solids and dissolved fractions of raw sewage, activated sludge, secondary effluent and tertiary effluent from a full-scale WWTP. Tertiary media filtration and chlorine disinfection were studied further with the use of a pilot-scale media filter. Results showed that both genes were reduced at each successive stage of treatment in the dissolved fraction. The solids-associated ARGs increased during activated sludge stage and were reduced in each subsequent stage. Overall reductions were approximately four log10 with the tertiary media filtration and disinfection providing the largest decrease. The majority of ARGs were solids-associated except for in the tertiary effluent. There was no evidence for positive selection of ARGs during treatment. The removal of ARGs by chlorine was improved by filtration compared to unfiltered, chlorinated secondary effluent. This study demonstrates that tertiary-stage WWTPs with disinfection can provide superior removal of ARGs compared to secondary treatment alone.
Reducing the Content of Metal Ions from Mine Water by Using Converter Sludge
Authors: Rozumová Lucia , Prehradná Jana
Published: January 2018

The aim of this paper was to study of utilization of converter sludge waste as a sorbent. The sorbent was utilized to reduce the content of manganese, cobalt, and nickel ions from mine water. Sorbent utilized in this work was obtained from the metallurgical industry from a process of gas treatment in an oxygen converter. Converter sludge was characterized by X-ray diffraction, Scanning Electron Microscope, X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, Specific Surface Area and Particle Size. Sorption experiments were conducted in a batch mode by using the real mine water. The impact of pH and contact time on the pollutant removal efficiency was observed. The sorption kinetics were evaluated with pseudo-first and pseudo-second order kinetic models. For the tested materials, the highest level of mine water purification was achieved; thus, the mine water could be discharged into the watercourse. The results of this study indicate that the application of metallurgical waste as a sorbent is highly effective for the treatment of multicomponent mine water.
Nematic liquid crystal alignment on subwavelength metal gratings
Authors: Kasyanova Irina V , Geivandov Artur R , Artemov Vladimir V , Gorkunov Maxim V , Palto Serguei P
Published: January 2018

We have studied the alignment of a nematic liquid crystal (LC) material on aluminum subwavelength nanogratings as a function of the period, p, and the slit width to period ratio, w/p. A method, based on Fourier analysis of the transmittance spectra of the LC grating system, has been applied. We show that the gratings provide stable planar alignment only for shorter periods and narrower slits (p < 400 nm, w/p < 2/3). As these parameters increase, the homogeneous surface alignment changes to domains with different tilt angles or to spatially modulated alignment. We have also obtained a 90° twisted LC director distribution, implying sufficiently strong azimuthal LC anchoring at the grating surface.
Aminosugar-based immunomodulator lipid A: synthetic approaches
Authors: Zamyatina Alla
Published: January 2018

The immediate immune response to infection by Gram-negative bacteria depends on the structure of a lipopolysaccharide (LPS, also known as endotoxin), a complex glycolipid constituting the outer leaflet of the bacterial outer membrane. Recognition of picomolar quantities of pathogenic LPS by the germ-line encoded Toll-like Receptor 4 (TLR4) complex triggers the intracellular pro-inflammatory signaling cascade leading to the expression of cytokines, chemokines, prostaglandins and reactive oxygen species which manifest an acute inflammatory response to infection. The “endotoxic principle” of LPS resides in its amphiphilic membrane-bound fragment glycophospholipid lipid A which directly binds to the TLR4·MD-2 receptor complex. The lipid A content of LPS comprises a complex mixture of structural homologs varying in the acylation pattern, the length of the (R)-3-hydroxyacyl- and (R)-3-acyloxyacyl long-chain residues and in the phosphorylation status of the β(1→6)-linked diglucosamine backbone. The structural heterogeneity of the lipid A isolates obtained from bacterial cultures as well as possible contamination with other pro-inflammatory bacterial components makes it difficult to obtain unambiguous immunobiological data correlating specific structural features of lipid A with its endotoxic activity. Advanced understanding of the therapeutic significance of the TLR4-mediated modulation of the innate immune signaling and the central role of lipid A in the recognition of LPS by the innate immune system has led to a demand for well-defined materials for biological studies. Since effective synthetic chemistry is a prerequisite for the availability of homogeneous structurally distinct lipid A, the development of divergent and reproducible approaches for the synthesis of various types of lipid A has become a subject of considerable importance. This review focuses on recent advances in synthetic methodologies toward LPS substructures comprising lipid A and describes the synthesis and immunobiological properties of representative lipid A variants corresponding to different bacterial species. The main criteria for the choice of orthogonal protecting groups for hydroxyl and amino functions of synthetically assembled β(1→6)-linked diglucosamine backbone of lipid A which allows for a stepwise introduction of multiple functional groups into the molecule are discussed. Thorough consideration is also given to the synthesis of 1,1′-glycosyl phosphodiesters comprising partial structures of 4-amino-4-deoxy-β-L-arabinose modified Burkholderia lipid A and galactosamine-modified Francisella lipid A. Particular emphasis is put on the stereoselective construction of binary glycosyl phosphodiester fragments connecting the anomeric centers of two aminosugars as well as on the advanced P(III)-phosphorus chemistry behind the assembly of zwitterionic double glycosyl phosphodiesters.
Constraints on the Progenitor System of SN 2016gkg from a Comprehensive Statistical Analysis
Authors: Sravan Niharika , Marchant Pablo , Kalogera Vassiliki , Margutti Raffaella
Published: January 2018

Type IIb supernovae (SNe) present a unique opportunity for understanding the progenitors of stripped-envelope SNe because the stellar progenitor of several SNe IIb have been identified in pre-explosion images. In this paper, we use Bayesian inference and a large grid of non-rotating solar-metallicity single and binary stellar models to derive the associated probability distributions of single and binary progenitors of the SN IIb 2016gkg using existing observational constraints. We find that potential binary star progenitors have smaller pre-SN hydrogen-envelope and helium-core masses than potential single-star progenitors typically by 0.1 M
⊙ and 2 M
⊙, respectively. We find that, a binary companion, if present, is a main-sequence or red-giant star. Apart from this, we do not find strong constraints on the nature of the companion star. We demonstrate that the range of progenitor helium-core mass inferred from observations could help improve constraints on the progenitor. We find that the probability that the progenitor of SN 2016gkg was a binary is 22% when we use constraints only on the progenitor luminosity and effective temperature. Imposing the range of pre-SN progenitor hydrogen-envelope mass and radius inferred from SN light curves, the probability that the progenitor is a binary increases to 44%. However, there is no clear preference for a binary progenitor. This is in contrast to binaries being the currently favored formation channel for SNe IIb. Our analysis demonstrates the importance of statistical inference methods to constrain progenitor channels.
L’accueil allemand, un modèle pour la France ?
Authors: Steinhilper Elias , Hinger Sophie
Published: January 2018

Le système d’asile allemand, réputé plus efficace pour expulser les demandeurs d’asile déboutés, mais aussi pour accueillir, héberger et intégrer les nouveaux venus sur le marché du travail, serait-il un modèle ? La réponse ne va pas de soi. Basé sur une approche sélective et répressive qui vise à dissuader par l’inconfort, ce système ne manque pas de susciter de vives critiques en Allemagne. Impulsées par divers acteurs locaux, des modalités alternatives d’accueil et d’hébergement se développent montrant que d’autres voies sont possibles.
Le focus juridique
Authors: Henriot Patrick
Published: January 2018

Les poursuites et les condamnations visant les personnes décidées à manifester en actes leur solidarité envers les migrants se succèdent à un rythme soutenu depuis de nombreux mois 1 . Parmi elles, les deux décisions rendues par la cour d’appel d’Aix-en-Provence les 8 août et 11 septembre derniers, à l’encontre de Cédric Herrou et de Pierre-Alain Mannoni 2  ne se présentent pas seulement comme les énièmes manifestations de l’entêtement policier et judiciaire qui a fait se lever le vaste mouvement des « délinquants solidaires ». En se livrant à une interprétation inédite des dispositions «  modifiant le délit d’aide au séjour irrégulier pour en exclure les actions humanitaires et désintéressées  » 3  afin de condamner les auteurs d’actes relevant de cette catégorie, les juges ont mis en évidence les ambiguïtés de ce texte. À leur insu sans doute, ils ont ainsi donné raison aux associations et aux défenseurs des libertés qui dénoncent depuis longtemps une législation ouvrant la voie à toutes les dérives répressives.
Usages numériques et performances scolaires : des relations contrastées selon les types d’usage et leur intensité
Authors: Grimault-Leprince Agnès
Published: January 2018

La recherche présentée analyse les relations entre les compétences scolaires des adolescents et leurs usages numériques déclarés, à partir des données issues d’une enquête par questionnaire menée dans le cadre de la recherche ANR Ineduc « Inégalités éducatives et construction des parcours des 11-15 ans dans leurs espaces de vie » auprès de plus de 3 000 collégiens de classe de 4e. S’il apparaît que les usages numériques intensifs sont négativement liés aux performances scolaires, l’analyse apporte des éléments de compréhension des processus en jeu. Pour l’usage d’Internet, elle montre ainsi que les activités récréatives et documentaires sont liées positivement à la réussite quand les activités communicationnelles lui sont liées négativement.
Multi-Level Mediation in Strategic Human Resource Management: A Conceptual Framework
Authors: Palagolla Nisha , Wickramasinghe Vathsala
Published: January 2018

This paper aims to contribute to the understanding of Human Resource Management (HRM) practices and firm performance relationship, by conceptualizing an integrated framework to explain the mediating linkage through sequential analysis of individual, job, and unit level outcomes whilst exploring contextual factors influencing this relationship. This aim is achieved by critically reviewing different strands of literature. There is an on-going debate that empirical explanations of how HRM practices influence firm performance are inconclusive, abstract, and lacking theoretical justification. In response, literature highlights a dire need of developing comprehensive integrated frameworks to explain this relationship. Thus, a theoretically and empirically driven framework is proposed by employing employee work effort, job performance, and unit performance in sequence as the intervening/mediating linkage of the proposed HRM-firm performance relationship. Future researchers may find the proposed integrated framework as a template to articulate a holistic view of this relationship.
Econometric Analysis of Trade Openness and Economic Growth for Developing Countries
Authors: Tahir Muhammad , Lodhi Mohammad Saeed
Published: January 2018

This paper has examined the relationship between trade openness and economic growth in the developing countries in order to have a better understanding of the trade-growth relationship. Empirical analyses are carried out through panel fixed effects estimation procedure, and data are utilized for two samples of the developing countries for the period 1990-2009. The endogeneity issue of trade openness is handled through instrumental variable. Our main finding is that the relationship between trade openness and economic growth is positive and statistically significant. The impact of domestic investment, labour force, education, and democracy on economic growth is also positive and statistically significant. The results also show that uncertain policies such as frequent fluctuations in prices are detrimental to long-run economic growth. It recommended that the developing countries should liberalize international trade, ensure macroeconomic stability, and pay favourable attention to other determinants of economic growth in order to grow faster in the long-run.
A Boy With Recurrent Swelling of the Jaw
Authors: Haverals Lien , Mattheij Marjolein , Hoppenreijs Esther , Bergé Stefaan , van der Weij Annemieke
Published: January 2018

We present a 10-year old boy with recurrent swelling of the right mandibular region. Based on the diagnosis of chronic recurrent parotitis, he received only supportive treatment. Because of frequent relapses, the diagnosis was reconsidered. Magnetic resonance imaging, scintigraphy and biopsy were compatible with chronic osteomyelitis. This lead to a diagnosis of mandibular primary chronic osteomyelitis, an uncommon non-suppurative inflammatory disease of unknown origin. After decortication of the mandible, the patient recovered well. Because there were no further complaints, the follow-up was ended 18 months after the operation.
Role of percutaneous computed tomography-guided radiofrequency ablation in treatment of osteoid osteoma
Authors: Upadhyay Ajay R. , Desai Nikunj Chandrakant , Vaghela Digish U.
Published: January 2018

Aim: The aim of the study was to evaluate efficacy of percutaneous computed tomography (CT)-guided radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of nidus in osteoid osteoma (OO). Materials and Methods: RFA was performed on fifty patients with clinically and radiologically diagnosed OO. RFA was done in the department of radio-diagnosis in our institute (a tertiary care providing institute in Ahmedabad, Western India). Ablation was performed by putting at an electrode tip (3–5 mm) into nidus under CT guidance with targeted temperature of 90°C for 3 min. Results: All procedures were technically successful. No immediate major or minor complications were observed. Complete clinical success was achieved in 46 patients. Only four patients required second intervention. Conclusion: Our experience indicates a 98% success rate. No major complications were noted.
Regional reporting of the incidence of Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase mutation in 379 non-small-cell lung cancer patients from Kolkata: Using immunohistochemistry as the diagnostic modality in a significant subset
Authors: Chatterjee Koushik , Bhowmik Raja , Chattopadhyay Bhargab
Published: January 2018

Context: Regional epidemiology of anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) mutation in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is an unmet need in India, and so is the knowledge of its incidence based on immunohistochemistry (IHC). Aims: Reporting the incidence of ALK mutation in NSCLC from Kolkata, incorporating IHC as the diagnostic modality in a considerable subset of patients. Subjects and Methods: It is a retrospective observational study done on NSCLC patients with adenocarcinoma histology, unselected , whose samples were tested for ALK mutation status between March 1, 2013, and March 15, 2017. The study involved all cancer facilities in Kolkata, except Tata Medical Centre. Up to June 2015, the tests were done by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and from July 2015 to the end, tests were done using IHC, as per the standard testing guidelines existing during the respective time periods. Results were documented in a de-identified manner to analyze the incidence of ALK mutations. Results: A total of 379 patients was tested for ALK mutations. March 2013 to June 2015, 200 (52.77%) patients were tested by FISH, 17 (8.5%) samples were unreportable and 4 patients [(2.19%) 4/183] tested positive for ALK mutations. From July 2015 to March 2017, 179 (47.22%) patients were tested by IHC, 9 (5.02%) samples were unreportable, and 10 patients [(5.88%) 10/170] tested positive for ALK mutations. Overall, 26 (6.8%) samples were unreportable and 14 [(3.9%) 14/353] patients tested positive for ALK mutations. Conclusions: The overall incidence of ALK mutation positive NSCLC in Kolkata is 3.9%. The incidence by IHC is 5.88% and by FISH is 2.19%, in the subset of patients tested by these two modalities respectively.
Neutrophil gelatinase associated lipocalin
Authors: El-Sayed Hoda M. , Mansour Hayam H. , El-Mobdy Essam Abd El-Aziz Abd , Mohammed Ragaa R. , Ajam Ahmed N. , Abd El-Hamid Haytham S. , El-Din Zaky Mohammed S. , Biomy Mohamed H.
Published: January 2018

Introduction

Serum creatinine is a late marker of acute kidney injury (AKI) and its alterations are often not apparent until 48–72 h postinjury. Urine and plasma neutrophil gelatinase associated lipocalin (NGAL) measurements may represent early biomarker of AKI in intensive care, being able to predict this complication ∼2 days prior to the rise in serum creatinine.

Aim

To evaluate the role of plasma NGAL level as a marker for early diagnosis of AKI in ICU patients and if it is related to the severity of kidney injury and renal outcomes.

Patients and methods

Our study including 40 ICU patients, 20 patients admitted for surgical causes and 20 admitted for medical causes. For all participants, clinical examination, laboratory investigations were done in the form of serum creatinine, plasma NGAL, with daily measurement of urine output and estimation of glomerular filtration rate. Patients with AKI were classified according to Risk, Injury, Failure, Loss, End stage renal disease (RIFLE) classification, non-AKI patients served as controls for comparison.

Results

Out of 40 patients, 14 (35%) developed AKI, and according to RIFLE classification, seven (17.5%) were class R, four (10%) were class I, three (7.5%) were F. There was statistically significant comparison between operative time and development of AKI in surgical patients. Also patients who did not develop AKI had lowest NGAL level while AKI group showed rising level with RIFLE classes.

Conclusion

Plasma NGAL can be used as early biomarker for diagnosis of AKI and its level is increasing with the severity of AKI classes in ICU patients
Chronological timeframes of cultural changes in the Dnepr-Dvina region (7th to 3rd millennium BC)
Authors: Mazurkevich Andrey , Dolbunova Ekaterina , Zaitseva Ganna , Kulkova Marianna
Published: January 2018

Since the 1960s, more than 250 radiocarbon dates have been obtained for materials in the Upper Western Dvina area, which cover a timeframe from the 7th to the 1st millennium BC. Ra­diocarbon dates for materials of the Dnepr-Dvina area date the appearance and decline of various cultural traditions – from the formation of the most ancient pottery among hunter-gatherer com­munities until the appearance of the first stock-breeders in the forest zone, the bearers of cultural traditions of the Corded Ware culture. Dates for materials from the Upper Dvina area show both the existence of hiatuses between some cultural-chronological groups coinciding with some sig­nificant climatic and environmental changes, and the quasi (?) co-existence of some of the groups. Could these hiatuses also be traced in material culture, or do they appear because of a lack of data?
Сhronology of early Neolithic materials of the site Sakhtysh IIa (Central Russia)
Authors: Dolbunova Ekaterina , Kostyleva Elena , Kulkova Marianna , Meadows John , Mazurkevich Andrey , Lozovskaya Olga
Published: January 2018

The Upper Volga culture (UVC) in the Volga and Oka basin is one of the earliest pottery cultures in Eastern Europe. The Sakhtysh IIa site is attributed to the core area of the UVC, with pottery encompassing all stages of this culture. A detailed analysis of artefact deposition in different lay­ers allows the creation of chronological models of early pottery development in this region. A series of new radiocarbon dates of food crust on pottery sherds which typologically belong to different stages of UVC at Sakhtysh IIa, as well as an overview of the oldest pottery are presented in this article.
Radiocarbon chronology of the Neolithic in the Povolzhye (Russian Eastern Europe)
Authors: Vybornov Alexander Alexeevich , Kulkova Marianna Alexeevna , Andreev Konstantin , Nesterov Eugeny
Published: January 2018

The radiocarbon dates obtained on materials from archaeological sites of the Low and Middle Povolzhye are presented in this article. The analysis of the complex of radiocarbon dates allowed a determination of the most appropriate dates for forming chronological schemes of cultural development in this region. The chronological frameworks of the Early Neolithic in the Low Povolzhye were determined from 6600–5500 cal BC; in the Middle Povolzhye they are from 6500 to 4600 cal BC.
Diet and subsistence at the late Neolithic tell sites of Sopot, Slavča and Ravnjaš, eastern Croatia
Authors: Reed Kelly , Škrivanko Maja Krznarić , Mihaljević Marija
Published: January 2018

This paper presents archaeobotanical data from three late Neolithic Sopot Culture (c. 5200–4000 cal BC) tell sites, Sopot, Slavča and Ravnjaš, located in eastern Croatia. Tell settlements are well suited for exploring aspects of diet and subsistence, as they present a concentrated area with successive generations building upon previous occupation levels. The plant remains from the three study sites suggest a crop-based diet of mainly einkorn, emmer, barley, lentil and pea, as well as evi­dence of crop-processing activities. This diet was also probably supplemented by wild fruit from the local environment, such as cornelian cherry, chinese lantern and blackberry.
Neolithic Thessaly: radiocarbon dated periods and phases
Authors: Reingruber Agathe , Toufexis Giorgos , Kyparissi-Apostolika Nina , Anetakis Michalis , Maniatis Yannis , Facorellis Yorgos
Published: January 2018

Thessaly in Central Greece is famous for settlement mounds (magoules) that were already partly formed in the Early Neolithic period. Some of these long-lived sites grew to many metres in height during the subsequent Middle, Late and Final Neolithic periods, and were also in­habited in the Bronze Age. Such magoules served as the backbone for defining relative chronolo­gical schemes. However, their absolute dating is still a topic of debate: due to a lack of well-defined se­quences, different chronological schemes have been proposed. New radiocarbon dates obtained in the last few years allow a better understanding of the duration not only of the main Neolithic pe­riods, but also of the different phases and sub-phases.
Periodisation of the Neolithic and radiocarbon chronology of the Early Neolithic and the beginning of the Middle Neolithic in Finland
Authors: Nordqvist Kerkko , Mökkönen Teemu
Published: January 2018

This paper discusses the basis of Neolithic periodization used in mainland Finland. It is suggested that the periodization should be revised: boundary between the Middle and Late Neolithic periods should be moved to correspond the appearance of Corded Ware (ca. 2800 calBC), and a term Final Neolithic introduced to cover the final centuries of the Neolithic. This kind of division would reflect changes in the cultural development better than the currently used one. In addition, the chronological frames for the pottery types dated between the late 6th and mid-4th millennium calBC, i.e. the Early Neolithic and the beginning of Middle Neolithic, are presented.
Impact of regional climate change and future emission scenarios on surface O3 and PM2.5 over India
Authors: Pommier Matthieu , Fagerli Hilde , Gauss Michael , Simpson David , Sharma Sumit , Sinha Vinay , Ghude Sachin D. , Landgren Oskar , Nyiri Agnes , Wind Peter
Published: January 2018

Abstract. Eleven of the world's 20 most polluted cities are located in India and poor air quality is already a major public health issue. However, anthropogenic emissions are predicted to increase substantially in the short-term (2030) and medium-term (2050) futures in India, especially if no further policy efforts are made. In this study, the EMEP/MSC-W chemical transport model has been used to predict changes in surface ozone (O3) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5) for India in a world of changing emissions and climate. The reference scenario (for present-day) is evaluated against surface-based measurements, mainly at urban stations. The evaluation has also been extended to other data sets which are publicly available on the web but without quality assurance. The evaluation shows high temporal correlation for O3 (r =  0.9) and high spatial correlation for PM2.5 (r =  0.5 and r =  0.8 depending on the data set) between the model results and observations. While the overall bias in PM2.5 is small (lower than 6 %), the model overestimates O3 by 35 %. The underestimation in NOx titration is probably the main reason for the O3 overestimation in the model. However, the level of agreement can be considered satisfactory in this case of a regional model being evaluated against mainly urban measurements, and given the inevitable uncertainties in much of the input data.For the 2050s, the model predicts that climate change will have distinct effects in India in terms of O3 pollution, with a region in the north characterized by a statistically significant increase by up to 4 % (2 ppb) and one in the south by a decrease up to −3 % (−1.4 ppb). This variation in O3 is assumed to be partly related to changes in O3 deposition velocity caused by changes in soil moisture and, over a few areas, partly also by changes in biogenic non-methane volatile organic compounds.Our calculations suggest that PM2.5 will increase by up to 6.5 % over the Indo-Gangetic Plain by the 2050s. The increase over India is driven by increases in dust, particulate organic matter (OM) and secondary inorganic aerosols (SIAs), which are mainly affected by the change in precipitation, biogenic emissions and wind speed.The large increase in anthropogenic emissions has a larger impact than climate change, causing O3 and PM2.5 levels to increase by 13 and 67 % on average in the 2050s over the main part of India, respectively. By the 2030s, secondary inorganic aerosol is predicted to become the second largest contributor to PM2.5 in India, and the largest in the 2050s, exceeding OM and dust.
Can explicit convection improve modelled dust in summertime West Africa?
Authors: Roberts Alexander J. , Woodage Margaret J. , Marsham John H. , Highwood Ellie J. , Ryder Claire L. , McGinty Willie , Wilson Simon , Crook Julia
Published: January 2018

Abstract. Global and regional models have large systematic errors in their modelled dust fields over West Africa. It is well established that cold pool outflows from moist convection (haboobs) can raise over 50 % of the dust over the Sahara and Sahel in summer, but parameterised moist convection tends to give a very poor representation of this in models. Here, we test the hypothesis that an explicit representation of convection improves haboob winds and so may reduce errors in modelled dust fields. The results show that despite varying both grid-spacing and the representation of convection there are only minor changes in dust aerosol optical depth (AOD) and dust mass loading fields between simulations. In all simulations there is an AOD deficit over the observed central Saharan dust maximum and a high bias in AOD along the west coast: both features consistent with many climate (CMIP5) models. Cold pool outflows are present in the explicit simulations and do raise dust. Consistent with this there is an improved diurnal cycle in dust-generating winds with a seasonal peak in evening winds at locations with moist convection that is absent in simulations with parameterised convection. However, the explicit convection does not change the AOD field significantly for several reasons. Firstly, the increased windiness in the evening from haboobs is approximately balanced by a reduction in morning winds associated with the breakdown of the nocturnal low-level jet (LLJ). Secondly, although explicit convection increases the frequency of the strongest winds, these are still weaker than observed, especially close to the observed summertime Saharan dust maximum: this results from the fact that although large mesoscale convective systems (and resultant cold pools) are generated, they have a lower frequency than observed and haboob winds are too weak. Finally, major impacts of the haboobs on winds occur over the Sahel, where, although dust uplift is known to occur in reality, uplift in the simulations is limited by a seasonally constant bare soil fraction in the model, together with soil moisture and clay fractions which are too restrictive of dust emission in seasonally-varying vegetated regions. For future studies, the results demonstrate 1) the improvements in behaviour produced by the explicit representation of convection, 2) the value of simultaneously evaluating both dust and winds and 3) the need to develop parameterisations of the land surface alongside those of dust-generating winds.
Assimilating bio-optical glider data during a phytoplankton bloom in the southern Ross Sea
Authors: Kaufman Daniel E. , Friedrichs Marjorie A. M. , Hemmings John C. P. , Smith Jr. Walker O.
Published: January 2018

Abstract. The Ross Sea is a region characterized by high primary productivity in comparison to other Antarctic coastal regions, and its productivity is marked by considerable variability both spatially (1–50 km) and temporally (days to weeks). This variability presents a challenge for inferring phytoplankton dynamics from observations that are limited in time or space, which is often the case due to logistical limitations of sampling. To better understand the spatiotemporal variability in Ross Sea phytoplankton dynamics and to determine how restricted sampling may skew dynamical interpretations, high-resolution bio-optical glider measurements were assimilated into a one-dimensional biogeochemical model adapted for the Ross Sea. The assimilation of data from the entire glider track using the micro-genetic and local search algorithms in the Marine Model Optimization Testbed improves the model–data fit by  ∼ 50 %, generating rates of integrated primary production of 104 g C m−2 yr−1 and export at 200 m of 27 g C m−2 yr−1. Assimilating glider data from three different latitudinal bands and three different longitudinal bands results in minimal changes to the simulations, improves the model–data fit with respect to unassimilated data by  ∼ 35 %, and confirms that analyzing these glider observations as a time series via a one-dimensional model is reasonable on these scales. Whereas assimilating the full glider data set produces well-constrained simulations, assimilating subsampled glider data at a frequency consistent with cruise-based sampling results in a wide range of primary production and export estimates. These estimates depend strongly on the timing of the assimilated observations, due to the presence of high mesoscale variability in this region. Assimilating surface glider data subsampled at a frequency consistent with available satellite-derived data results in 40 % lower carbon export, primarily resulting from optimized rates generating more slowly sinking diatoms. This analysis highlights the need for the strategic consideration of the impacts of data frequency, duration, and coverage when combining observations with biogeochemical modeling in regions with strong mesoscale variability.
Climate and marine biogeochemistry during the Holocene from transient model simulations
Authors: Segschneider Joachim , Schneider Birgit , Khon Vyacheslav
Published: January 2018

Abstract. Climate and marine biogeochemistry changes over the Holocene are investigated based on transient global climate and biogeochemistry model simulations over the last 9,500 yr. The simulations are forced by accelerated and non-accelerated orbital parameters, respectively, and atmospheric pCO2. The analysis focusses on key climatic parameters of relevance to the marine biogeochemistry, on the processes that determine the strength of the carbon pumps that drive the ocean–atmosphere carbon flux, and on the oxygen minimum zones (OMZs) in the ocean. The most pronounced changes occur in the eastern equatorial Pacific (EEP) OMZ, and in the North Atlantic. Changes in global mean values of biological production and export of detritus remain modest, with generally lower values in the mid-Holocene. The simulated ocean–atmosphere CO2-flux is of the right order of magnitude to explain the observed atmospheric pCO2 evolution, but with different timing. As the most significant result, we find a substantial increase in volume of the OMZ in the EEP continuing into the late Holocene in the non-accelerated simulation. The concurrent increase of age of the water mass within the EEP OMZ suggests that this growth is driven by a slow down of the circulation in the interior of the deep Pacific. This results in large scale deoxygenation in the deeper Pacific and hence the source regions of the EEP OMZ waters from mid-to-late Holocene. The simulated expansion of the OMZ raises the question whether the currently observed deoxygenation is a continuation of the orbitally driven decline in oxygen, or if it is already a result of the occuring climate change from anthropogenic forcing as widely assumed. An additional explanation would be that the anthropogenic forcing amplifies the natural forcing. The increase in water mass age and EEP OMZ volume can only be simulated with the non-accelerated model simulation. The simulations thus demonstrate that non-accelerated experiments are required for an analysis of the marine biogeochemistry in the Holocene.
Tributaries affect the thermal response of lakes to climate change
Authors: Råman Vinnå Love , Wüest Alfred , Zappa Massimiliano , Fink Gabriel , Bouffard Damien
Published: January 2018

Abstract. Thermal responses of inland waters to climate change varies on global and regional scales. The extent of warming is determined by system-specific characteristics such as fluvial input. Here we examine the impact of ongoing climate change on two alpine tributaries, the Aare River and the Rhône River, and their respective downstream peri-alpine lakes: Lake Biel and Lake Geneva. We propagate regional atmospheric temperature effects into river discharge projections. These, together with anthropogenic heat sources, are in turn incorporated into simple and efficient deterministic models that predict future water temperatures, river-borne suspended sediment concentration (SSC), lake stratification and river intrusion depth/volume in the lakes. Climate-induced shifts in river discharge regimes, including seasonal flow variations, act as positive and negative feedbacks in influencing river water temperature and SSC. Differences in temperature and heating regimes between rivers and lakes in turn result in large seasonal shifts in warming of downstream lakes. The extent of this repressive effect on warming is controlled by the lakes hydraulic residence time. Previous studies suggest that climate change will diminish deep-water oxygen renewal in lakes. We find that climate-related seasonal variations in river temperatures and SSC shift deep penetrating river intrusions from summer towards winter. Thus potentially counteracting the otherwise negative effects associated with climate change on deep-water oxygen content. Our findings provide a template for evaluating the response of similar hydrologic systems to on-going climate change.
Invited perspectives: Hydrological perspectives on precipitation intensity-duration thresholds for landslide initiation: proposing hydro-meteorological thresholds
Authors: Bogaard Thom , Greco Roberto
Published: January 2018

Abstract. Many shallow landslides and debris flows are precipitation initiated.
Therefore, regional landslide hazard assessment is often based on empirically
derived precipitation intensity-duration (ID) thresholds and landslide
inventories. Generally, two features of precipitation events are plotted and
labeled with (shallow) landslide occurrence or non-occurrence. Hereafter, a
separation line or zone is drawn, mostly in logarithmic space. The practical
background of ID is that often only meteorological information is available
when analyzing (non-)occurrence of shallow landslides and, at the same time,
it could be that precipitation information is a good proxy for both
meteorological trigger and hydrological cause. Although applied in many case
studies, this approach suffers from many false positives as well as limited
physical process understanding. Some first steps towards a more
hydrologically based approach have been proposed in the past, but these
efforts received limited follow-up. Therefore, the objective of our paper is to (a) critically analyze the
concept of precipitation ID thresholds for shallow landslides and debris
flows from a hydro-meteorological point of view and (b) propose a
trigger–cause conceptual framework for lumped regional hydro-meteorological
hazard assessment based on published examples and associated discussion. We
discuss the ID thresholds in relation to return periods of precipitation,
soil physics, and slope and catchment water balance. With this paper, we aim
to contribute to the development of a stronger conceptual model for regional
landslide hazard assessment based on physical process understanding and
empirical data.