bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mendelian randomization incorporating uncertainty about pleiotropy
Authors: Thompson John R. , Minelli Cosetta , Bowden Jack , Del Greco Fabiola M. , Gill Dipender , Jones Elinor M. , Shapland Chin Yang , Sheehan Nuala A.
Published: August 2017

Mendelian randomization (MR) requires strong assumptions about the genetic instruments, of which the most difficult to justify relate to pleiotropy. In a two‐sample MR, different methods of analysis are available if we are able to assume,M1: no pleiotropy (fixed effects meta‐analysis),M2: that there may be pleiotropy but that the average pleiotropic effect is zero (random effects meta‐analysis), andM3: that the average pleiotropic effect is nonzero (MR‐Egger). In the latter 2 cases, we also require that the size of the pleiotropy is independent of the size of the effect on the exposure. Selecting one of these models without good reason would run the risk of misrepresenting the evidence for causality. The most conservative strategy would be to useM3in all analyses as this makes the weakest assumptions, but such an analysis gives much less precise estimates and so should be avoided whenever stronger assumptions are credible. We consider the situation of a two‐sample design when we are unsure which of these 3 pleiotropy models is appropriate. The analysis is placed within a Bayesian framework and Bayesian model averaging is used. We demonstrate that even large samples of the scale used in genome‐wide meta‐analysis may be insufficient to distinguish the pleiotropy models based on the data alone. Our simulations show that Bayesian model averaging provides a reasonable trade‐off between bias and precision. Bayesian model averaging is recommended whenever there is uncertainty about the nature of the pleiotropy.
A robust interrupted time series model for analyzing complex health care intervention data
Authors: Cruz Maricela , Bender Miriam , Ombao Hernando
Published: August 2017

Current health policy calls for greater use of evidence‐based care delivery services to improve patient quality and safety outcomes. Care delivery is complex, with interacting and interdependent components that challenge traditional statistical analytic techniques, in particular, when modeling a time series of outcomes data that might be “interrupted” by a change in a particular method of health care delivery. Interrupted time series (ITS) is a robust quasi‐experimental design with the ability to infer the effectiveness of an intervention that accounts for data dependency. Current standardized methods for analyzing ITS data do not model changes in variation and correlation following the intervention. This is a key limitation since it is plausible for data variability and dependency to change because of the intervention. Moreover, present methodology either assumes a prespecified interruption time point with an instantaneous effect or removes data for which the effect of intervention is not fully realized. In this paper, we describe and develop a novel robust interrupted time series (robust‐ITS) model that overcomes these omissions and limitations. The robust‐ITS model formally performs inference on (1) identifying the change point; (2) differences in preintervention and postintervention correlation; (3) differences in the outcome variance preintervention and postintervention; and (4) differences in the mean preintervention and postintervention. We illustrate the proposed method by analyzing patient satisfaction data from a hospital that implemented and evaluated a new nursing care delivery model as the intervention of interest. The robust‐ITS model is implemented in an R Shiny toolbox, which is freely available to the community.
Improving phase II oncology trials using best observed RECIST response as an endpoint by modelling continuous tumour measurements
Authors: Lin Chien‐Ju , Wason James M.S.
Published: August 2017

In many phase II trials in solid tumours, patients are assessed using endpoints based on the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumours (RECIST) scale. Often, analyses are based on the response rate. This is the proportion of patients who have an observed tumour shrinkage above a predefined level and no new tumour lesions. The augmented binary method has been proposed to improve the precision of the estimator of the response rate. The method involves modelling the tumour shrinkage to avoid dichotomising it. However, in many trials the best observed response is used as the primary outcome. In such trials, patients are followed until progression, and their best observed RECIST outcome is used as the primary endpoint. In this paper, we propose a method that extends the augmented binary method so that it can be used when the outcome is best observed response. We show through simulated data and data from a real phase II cancer trial that this method improves power in both single‐arm and randomised trials. The average gain in power compared to the traditional analysis is equivalent to approximately a 35% increase in sample size. A modified version of the method is proposed to reduce the computational effort required. We show this modified method maintains much of the efficiency advantages.
Mechanical properties of epoxy/basalt polymer concrete: Experimental and analytical study
Authors: Hassani Niaki Mostafa , Fereidoon Abdolhosein , Ghorbanzadeh Ahangari Morteza
Published: August 2017

In this paper, first we investigated the effects of the amount of crushed basalt aggregates on the compressive strength, flexural strength, and splitting tensile strength of a polymer concrete (PC) obtained by epoxy resin. We found that increasing the amount of epoxy resin to the basalt aggregates to 25 wt% improved mechanical properties of the concrete. After determining the optimum weight percentage of basalt in epoxy, the mechanical properties of the optimized PC were experimentally investigated at three different temperatures: 50°C, 75°C, and 100°C. Our results indicate that as the temperature increases, the highest maximum stress rapidly decreases, but the yield displacement increases significantly. Moreover, the PC sample became barrel shaped under compression stress because of its ductility at high temperatures. Afterwards, effects of four different aggregate sizes, 3–5 mm, 1.2–3 mm, 0.6–1.2 mm, and microsized particles, on mechanical properties of the optimized PC were experimentally studied. We found that, the larger aggregate size outcomes higher compressive strength and lower flexural and splitting tensile strength. Finally, an empirical model for the relationships between compressive, splitting tensile, and flexural stress was derived that can be used to predict the strength of PCs.
The algorithm of seamless image mosaic based on A‐KAZE features extraction and reducing the inclination of image
Authors: Qu Zhong , Bu Wei , Liu Ling
Published: August 2017

The traditional feature point detection algorithm is based on the linear scale decomposition. In the SIFT (Scale Invariant Feature Transform) algorithm, features are obtained through building the image pyramid by the Gaussian filter. SIFT has good robustness but has some flaws as well. Gaussian filter neither preserve object boundaries nor smooth the same level details and noise at all scales, which impair the accuracy and distinctiveness of the feature point positioning. Nonlinear scale decomposition can solve these problems. In this paper, a new image mosaic algorithm based on A‐KAZE feature is proposed to take advantages of the A‐KAZE algorithm in terms of rotation invariance, illumination invariance, speed, and stability. The optimal stitching line is obtained and the multi‐resolution fusion algorithm is used to fuse the image in order to achieve a satisfactory seamless image of high resolution. The whole straightening method is applied in the image mosaic to solve the problem of the tilt of multiple image mosaic. Experimental results show that stitching algorithm in this paper is faster and more robust compared to the traditional SIFT algorithm. © 2017 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Online hunting forums identify achievement as prominent among multiple satisfactions
Authors: Ebeling‐Schuld Alena M. , Darimont Chris T.
Published: August 2017

Understanding hunter satisfactions can lead to improved wildlife management policy and practice. Whereas previous work has suggested that hunters often seek multiple satisfactions (achievement, affiliation, appreciation), little is known about how satisfactions might vary with target species. Additionally, past research has mostly gathered data using interviews and surveys, which might limit scope as well as introduce strategic bias for potentially provocative subjects such as hunting. To address these gaps, we analyzed data from online hunting forums, which provide an open‐access source of peer‐to‐peer discussion that is geographically and taxonomically broad. We used directed qualitative content analysis to analyze hunting narratives for satisfactions by coding 2,864 phrases across 455 hunting “stories,” and compared patterns of dominant (most frequent) and multiple satisfactions between target species type (ungulates and carnivores) using forums from 3 regions: British Columbia, Canada; Texas, USA; and North America‐wide. We found that achievement was the dominant satisfaction in 81% of ungulate and 86% of carnivore stories. Appreciation was nearly absent as a dominant satisfaction in carnivore stories. We found that 62% of ungulate and 53% of carnivore stories had multiple satisfactions present, indicating that appreciation and affiliation play important secondary satisfaction roles even when achievement is dominant. If these data are broadly representative of hunters on a larger scale, management policy instruments that ignore achievement may not evoke change in hunter behavior, particularly involving carnivore target species. Despite limitations associated with online forums (e.g., nonrepresentative of all hunters), they provide a new and valuable resource for wildlife management research. © 2017 The Authors. Wildlife Society Bulletin published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of The Wildlife Society.
Fast Room Temperature Synthesis of the Thiostannate [Ni(2amp)3]2[Sn2S6]·9.5H2O: Crystal Structure and Properties
Authors: Hilbert Jessica , Näther Christian , Bensch Wolfgang
Published: August 2017

The new compound [Ni(2amp)3]2[Sn2S6]·9.5H2O (1) was obtained at room temperature using Na4SnS4·14H2O and [Ni(2amp)3][ClO4]2 [2amp = 2‐(aminomethyl)pyridine] or [Ni(en)3]Cl2·2H2O as starting materials. The synthesis is fast and crystals grew within 1 d. The two unique anions and cations are embedded in an extended water cluster network and an extensive hydrogen bonding network is formed. The complexes are arranged to form intermolecular π–π interactions between neighboring 2amp ligands. A Hirshfeld surface analysis yields a detailed picture about the intermolecular interactions. Heating the compound up to about 100 °C the crystal water molecules are removed and a new crystalline material is formed. Storing the dehydrated sample in a water atmosphere leads to reformation of the title compound.
Local Governing of Schools in Scandinavia—Between State, Market and Civil Society
Authors: Thøgersen Malene
Published: August 2017

This chapter focuses on the local governing of schools across institutional sectors (public, for-profit and nonprofit) and Scandinavian countries. Local governing in the field is analysed with a specific focus on elements of control, competition and collaboration. The case studies reveal several similarities across countries. One common trend is that the degree of municipal control is lower for private schools than public schools. However, there are also differences, indicating that variation in national legislation is reflected at the local level. Sweden stands out with more focus on equivalent services and less room for distinctiveness in spite of a more market-based approach. Hence, local steering in the field of schools takes place within a complex mix of logics and tools from state, market and civil society.
Valencies of the lanthanides
Authors: Johnson David A. , Nelson Peter G.
Published: August 2017

The valencies of the lanthanides vary more than was once thought. In addition to valencies associated with a half-full shell, there are valencies associated with a quarter- and three-quarter-full shell. This can be explained on the basis of Slater’s theory of many-electron atoms. The same theory explains the variation in complexing constants in the trivalent state (the “tetrad effect”). Valency in metallic and organometallic compounds is also discussed.
Thrombo-hemorrhagic liability in children with congenital heart diseases
Authors: Shebl Shebl Said , El-shehaby Walid Ahmed Naguib , Said Yasmin Shebl , Darwish Amira Hamed , Elfadaly Nabeh Helal , Amer Eman
Published: August 2017

Background:

The precise mechanisms of the increased incidence of hemostatic abnormalities in congenital heart disease (CHD) have not been determined. The aim of the study was to evaluate some indicators of activation of platelets and vascular endothelial cells in patients with CHD, evaluation of bleeding liability of these patients, and correlation with the clinical presentation of these patients.

Methods:

This work was carried out on 20 patients with cyanotic congenital heart diseases (CCHD), 20 patients with acyanotic congenital heart diseases (ACHD), and 20 healthy children who served as the control group, aged between 1 and 10 years. All were subjected to full clinical examination, complete blood count, oxygen saturation, echocardiography, bleeding and coagulation times, PT, PTT, FDPs, plasma soluble P-selectin, E-selectin, and platelet factor 4 (PF4).

Results:

There was significant prolongation of PT and PTT, and there was a significant lowering of platelet counts. These results were obtained in CCHD and ACHD, but were more significant in CCHD patients. There was a significant elevation in PF4 (55.0 ± 25.5 ng/mL), P-selectin (128.9 ± 42.44 ng/dL), and E-selectin (9461.5 ± 1701.24 pg/mL) levels in children with CCHD as compared to those with ACHD (PF4, 21 ± 7.94 ng/mL; P-selectin, 80.1 ± 13.2 ng/mL; E-selectin, 7969.6 ± 2127.5 pg/mL), and significant increase in both groups when compared to the control group (PF4, 8.1 ±4.7 ng/mL; P-selectin, 27.83 ± 9.73 ng/mL; E-selectin, 6750.00 ± 3204.00 pg/ mL). There was a significant negative correlation between oxygen saturation, plasma P-selectin (r = -0.865), E-selectin (r = -0.401), and PF4 (r = -0.792) in patients with CCHD.

Conclusion:

Patients with CHD-both cyanotic and acyanotic-have variable degrees of increased liability for both thrombosis and hemorrhage that represents some sort of adaptation to preserve hemostasis and to protect these patients against the clinical presentation of both thrombosis and bleeding. This is to say that CHD patients have their own point of balance between thrombogenicity and bleeding liability. Wide-scale studies are needed to detect the normal levels of different thrombohemorrhagic parameters of these patients.
La práctica y enseñanza de la medicina: ¿es una tarea compleja o complicada?
Authors: Sánchez-Mendiola Melchor
Published: August 2017

Las diferentes perspectivas ante la vida forman parte dela riqueza de la naturaleza humana, desde quien ve y vivela vida de forma sencilla y simple, hasta quien lo hace demanera tremendamente compleja e intrincada.
Analytical Groundwater Mechanics
Authors: Strack Otto D. L.
Published: August 2017

Groundwater mechanics is the study of fluid flow in porous media. Focusing on applications and case studies, this book explains the basic principles of groundwater flow using mathematical expressions to describe a wide range of different aquifer configurations. Emphasis is placed throughout on the importance of developing simplified models that can be solved analytically to provide insight into complex groundwater flow scenarios and to allow better interpretation of the full numerical solution. Focusing first on identifying the important features of a problem, the book explains how to translate practical questions into mathematical form and discusses the interpretation of the results. Illustrated with numerous real-world examples and graphical results, this is an ideal textbook for advanced undergraduate and graduate Earth science, geological engineering, and environmental engineering courses, as well as a useful reference for researchers and professionals.
Graded Aerobic Treadmill Testing in Adolescent Traumatic Brain Injury Patients
Authors: Cordingley Dean M. , Girardin Richard , Morissette Marc P. , Reimer Karen , Leiter Jeff , Russell Kelly , Ellis Michael J.
Published: August 2017

Purpose:To examine the safety and tolerability of clinical graded aerobic treadmill testing in recovering adolescent moderate and severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients referred to a multidisciplinary pediatric concussion program.Methods:We completed a retrospective case series of two moderate and five severe TBI patients (mean age, 17.3 years) who underwent initial Buffalo Concussion Treadmill Testing at a mean time of 71.6 days (range, 55-87) postinjury.Results:Six patients completed one graded aerobic treadmill test each and one patient underwent initial and repeat testing. There were no complications. Five initial treadmill tests were completely tolerated and allowed an accurate assessment of exercise tolerance. Two initial tests were terminated early by the treatment team because of neurological and cardiorespiratory limitations. As a result of testing, two patients were cleared for aerobic exercise as tolerated and four patients were treated with individually tailored submaximal aerobic exercise programs resulting in subjective improvement in residual symptoms and/or exercise tolerance. Repeat treadmill testing in one patient performed after 1 month of treatment with submaximal aerobic exercise prescription was suggestive of improved exercise tolerance. One patient was able to tolerate aerobic exercise following surgery for posterior glottic stenosis.Conclusions:Preliminary results suggest that graded aerobic treadmill testing is a safe, well tolerated, and clinically useful tool to assess exercise tolerance in appropriately selected adolescent patients with TBI. Future prospective studies are needed to evaluate the effect of tailored submaximal aerobic exercise prescription on exercise tolerance and patient outcomes in recovering adolescent moderate and severe TBI patients.
AGENTIAL INSENSITIVITY AND SOCIALLY SUPPORTED IGNORANCE
Authors: Woomer Lauren
Published: August 2017

In this paper, I identify a form of epistemic insensitivity that occurs when someone fails to make proper use of the epistemic tools at their disposal in order to bring their beliefs in line with epistemically relevant evidence that is available to them. I call this kind of insensitivityagential insensitivitybecause it stems from the epistemic behavior of an individual agent. Agential insensitivity can manifest as a failure to either attend to relevant and available evidence, or appropriately interpret evidence that is attended to. The concept of agential insensitivity allows us to conceptualize the kind of not-knowing involved in forms of ignorance that are cultivated and maintained by individual agents, especially when this ignorance is enabled or encouraged by social structures. I use the skepticism about racial disparities in policing practices that is displayed by many white Americans as a lens for exploring this connection. Understanding agential insensitivity thus provides insight into both social and epistemic phenomena.
The effect of reducing energy density, via the addition of water to dry diet, on body weight and activity in dogs
Authors: Alexander Janet E. , Colyer Alison , Morris Penelope J.
Published: August 2017

Approximately 40 % of pet dogs are estimated to be overweight and this is associated with health conditions significantly reducing life span and quality. In cats, dietary energy dilution has been reported to increase activity levels and aid healthy body-weight maintenance. Our aim was to investigate this in dogs. For 28 d, a complete and balanced standard dry diet, hydrated to a total moisture content (TMC) of 72 %, was offered to forty-six dogs at individual maintenance energy requirements (MER). Intake, body weight and activity were measured. For the following 28 d, the dry diet was offered at 200 % of MER with or without hydration (7·6 or 72 % TMC) and measurements repeated. When offered diets in excess, body weight increased significantly faster (19·3 g/d) with the hydrated diet (P = 0·001), but activity levels did not change from baseline (P = 0·392), while activity reduced significantly with the dry diet (about 15 %; P < 0·001). Dogs completely compensated for the reduction of dietary energy content, indicating that this is not a useful strategy for maintaining body weight when offered excess food.
The coevolution of networks and health
Authors: SCHAEFER DAVID R. , ADAMS JIMI
Published: August 2017

Historically, health has played an important role in network research, and vice versa (Valente, 2010). This intersection has contributed to how we understand human health as well as the development of network concepts, theory, and methods. Throughout, dynamics have featured prominently. Even when limited to static methods, the emphasis in each of these fields on providing causal explanations has led researchers to draw upon theories that are dynamic, often explicitly. Here, we elaborate a variety of ways to conceptualize the relationship between health and network dynamics, show how these possibilities are reflected in the existing literature, highlight how the articles within this special issue expand that understanding, and finally, identify paths for future research to push this intersection forward.
IFU Spectroscopy of Southern Planetary Nebulae V: Low-Ionisation Structures
Authors: Ali A. , Dopita M. A.
Published: August 2017

In this fifth paper of the series, we examine the spectroscopy and morphology of four southern Galactic planetary nebulae Hen 2-141, NGC 5307, IC 2553, and PB 6 using new integral field spectroscopy data. The morphologies and ionisation structures of the sample are given as a set of emission-line maps. In addition, the physical conditions, chemical compositions, and kinematical characteristics of these objects are derived. The results show that PB 6 and Hen 2-141 are of very high excitation classes and IC 2553 and NGC 5307 are mid to high excitation objects. The elemental abundances reveal that PB 6 is of Type I, Hen 2-141 and IC 2553 are of Type IIa, and NGC 5307 is of Type IIb/III. The observations unveil the presence of well-defined low-ionisation structures or ‘knots’ in all objects. The diagnostic diagrams reveal that the excitation mechanism of these knots is probably by photoionisation of dense material by the nebular central stars. The physical analysis of six of these knots show no significant differences with their surrounding nebular gas, except their lower electron densities. In spite of the enhancement of the low-ionisation emission lines of these knots, their chemical abundances are nearly comparable to their surrounding nebulae, with the exception of perhaps slightly higher nitrogen abundances in the NGC 5307 knots. The integrated spectrum of IC 2553 reveals that nearly all key lines that have led researchers to characterise its central star as a weak-emission line star type are in fact of nebular origin.
Chambered structures from the Ediacaran Dengying Formation, Yunnan, China: comparison with the Cryogenian analogues and their microbial interpretation
Authors: LUO CUI , PAN BING , REITNER JOACHIM
Published: August 2017

Enigmatic chambered structures have been reported forming reef frames in Cryogenian interglacial carbonates, prior to the commonly acknowledged microbial-metazoan reefs at the terminal Ediacaran, and interpreted as fossils of possible sponge-grade organisms. A better constraint on the affinity of these structures is partly hindered by few analogues in other time periods. This study describes similar structures from peritidal dolostones of the Ediacaran Denying Formation from Yunnan, China. Samples were investigated using optical microscopy and three-dimensional (3-D) reconstruction based on grinding tomography. The Dengying chambered structures are comparable with Cryogenian structures in basic construction, but are not frame building, and show variations in overall shape and inhabiting facies. Two-dimensional (2-D) cross-sections show that thin, homogeneous micritic laminae are the basic building blocks of the chamber walls. Thick walls represent parallel accretion of these laminae, and thin walls developed from the angular growth of a single lamina or merging of multiple laminae. In 3-D space, the laminae primarily correspond to continuous surfaces which sometimes contain sub-circular holes, while a few represent filamentous elements connected to the surfaces. The morphological features and growth pattern of the Dengying chambered structures indicate that they are likely to be calcified microbial constructions rather than skeletal remains of basic metazoans. However, aside from the Cryogenian and Dengying examples, comparable chambered constructions with laminae-based architecture are yet unknown from other fossil or extant microbialites. Further work investigating related structures is needed to determine the microbial consortia and controlling environmental factors that produced these chambered structures.
LEGALITY OF UNILATERAL EXPLOITATION OF SPACE RESOURCES UNDER INTERNATIONAL LAW
Authors: Su Jinyuan
Published: August 2017

In recent years, there has been a surge of private investment in space resources and the enactment of domestic legislation aimed at protecting property rights over the resources to be extracted. This article argues that the unilateral exploitation of space resources is not prohibited by the principle of non-appropriation and is consistent with the freedom of use for common benefit and interests, with the caveat that it does not exclude others from exploitation or exacerbate inequality among States. It also argues that a laissez-faire approach would be detrimental to the orderly, sustainable and safe exploitation and use of space resources and calls for the establishment of an international regulatory regime consisting of rules concerning international coordination, benefits sharing and environmental protection.
Impact of climate change on yield, irrigation requirements and water productivity of maize cultivated under the moderate continental climate of Bosnia and Herzegovina
Authors: Stricevic R. J. , Stojakovic N. , Vujadinovic-Mandic M. , Todorovic M.
Published: August 2017

In the past 20 years, extreme weather events (atypical variations of temperature and precipitation in space and time) have increased in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the consequences being significant material damage and decreased crop yields. The aims of the current paper were to investigate the impact of climate change on yield, irrigation requirements and water productivity of maize grown in one of the most important agricultural regions of the country. It used the results of projections of the EBU-POM regional climate model (Eta Belgrade University – Princeton Ocean Model) for the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Special Report on Emissions Scenarios (SRES) A1B, A2 and A1B > carbon dioxide (CO2), A2 > CO2 for the 2020s (2010–2039), the 2050s (2040–2069) and the 2080s (2070–2099), and it compared them with the reference period (1961–1990) using measured and modelled data. AquaCrop was calibrated for the study area using data from experimental studies. The model was applied in simulations of future cultivation scenarios considering different irrigation regimes and variations in precipitation, temperature, CO2 concentration and sowing date. The results of simulations indicate that in the 2020s, there will be no significant changes in irrigation needs and yield due to the earlier sowing date and overall shifting of the growing season early in spring. A slightly larger negative impact of climate change will occur by the 2050s and a larger one by the 2080s due to a reduction in precipitation in the summer months. Compared with the reference period, in the 2080s, irrigation requirements are expected to increase by almost 100% (from 100 to 200 mm) and to provide up to 30% greater yield. In the future, water productivity of maize will remain high and will be even greater than current levels for both rainfed and irrigated cultivation due to anticipation and shortening of the growing season, reduction in crop evapotranspiration and increase in CO2 concentration. Due to an increase in precipitation in early spring and its reduction in the May–June period, the blue-to-green water ratio will increase in the future with positive environmental connotations. The productive use of blue water will also increase.
Characterising the muscle anabolic potential of dairy, meat and plant-based protein sources in older adults
Authors: Gorissen Stefan H. M. , Witard Oliver C.
Published: August 2017

The age-related loss of skeletal muscle mass and function is caused, at least in part, by a reduced muscle protein synthetic response to protein ingestion. The magnitude and duration of the postprandial muscle protein synthetic response to ingested protein is dependent on the quantity and quality of the protein consumed. This review characterises the anabolic properties of animal-derived and plant-based dietary protein sources in older adults. While approximately 60 % of dietary protein consumed worldwide is derived from plant sources, plant-based proteins generally exhibit lower digestibility, lower leucine content and deficiencies in certain essential amino acids such as lysine and methionine, which compromise the availability of a complete amino acid profile required for muscle protein synthesis. Based on currently available scientific evidence, animal-derived proteins may be considered more anabolic than plant-based protein sources. However, the production and consumption of animal-derived protein sources is associated with higher greenhouse gas emissions, while plant-based protein sources may be considered more environmentally sustainable. Theoretically, the lower anabolic capacity of plant-based proteins can be compensated for by ingesting a greater dose of protein or by combining various plant-based proteins to provide a more favourable amino acid profile. In addition, leucine co-ingestion can further augment the postprandial muscle protein synthetic response. Finally, prior exercise or n-3 fatty acid supplementation have been shown to sensitise skeletal muscle to the anabolic properties of dietary protein. Applying one or more of these strategies may support the maintenance of muscle mass with ageing when diets rich in plant-based protein are consumed.
On the digital representation of smooth numbers
Authors: BUGEAUD YANN , KANEKO HAJIME
Published: August 2017

Let b ⩾ 2 be an integer. Among other results we establish, in a quantitative form, that any sufficiently large integer which is not a multiple of b cannot simultaneously be divisible only by very small primes and have very few nonzero digits in its representation in base b.
Meanings of Treason in a Colonial Context: Indian Challenges to the Charges of ‘Waging War against the King’ and ‘Crimes against Peace’
Authors: SELLARS KIRSTEN
Published: August 2017

In November 1945, the British colonial authorities convened a court martial of members of the Indian National Army, which had fought alongside the Japanese in the Asia-Pacific War. Three defendants were charged with ‘waging war against the King’ – the equivalent of treason, set out in Section 121 of the Indian Penal Code.

At the heart of the case was the question of allegiance. The chief defence counsel, Bhulabhai Desai, had the task of presenting a legitimate – i.e., non-treasonable – exception to the duty of allegiance to a state during a war. Drawing on Hobbesian themes, Desai insisted that a specific event – the fall of Singapore – had convinced the surrendered Indian troops of the British Army that Britain was no longer capable of protecting their interests. Further, he questioned the very premise of the ‘waging war against the King’ charge, by arguing that during a war of liberation the justice of the challenger eclipsed the security of the challenged.

Desai's approach influenced Radhabinod Pal, who would take these arguments to the International Military Tribunal for the Far East. Pal, like Desai, took as his starting point the differing interests of the powerful states and their colonies. He argued that the Allies’ motives for creating the new charge of ‘crimes against peace’ were highly suspect, considering their own history of violence towards the non-Western world. Would it not potentially immobilize the struggle against colonialism? And,paceHobbes, could not a colonized state's duty of allegiance to the society of states be relinquished?
Cardiac surgery in adults with high-surgical complexity CHD: results of a network collaborative programme
Authors: Gilad Vered , Santoro Francesco , Ribera Elena , Calevo Maria G. , Cipriani Adriano , Pasquè Achille , Chierchia Sergio L.
Published: August 2017

Background

Adults with CHD often exhibit complex cardiac abnormalities, whose management requires specific clinical and surgical expertise. To enable easier access of these patients to highly specialised care, we implemented a collaborative programme that incorporates medical and surgical specialists belonging to both paediatric and adult cardiovascular institutions.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to review the experience gained and to analyse the surgical outcome of major cardiac surgery.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed all consecutive patients admitted for major cardiac surgery using our network between January, 2010 and December, 2013. Analysis of surgical outcome was performed in patients selected for major cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass. Early and late outcomes were evaluated.

Results

Out of a total of 433 inward patients, 86 were selected for surgery. The median age was 25.5 years, –64 patients (74.4%) had previously undergone heart surgery, and –55 patients (64%) had been subjected to at least one sternotomy. Abnormalities of the left ventricular and right ventricular outflow tract were the most frequent (37.2% and 30.2%, respectively), and despite high-surgical complexity only one death occurred (in-hospital mortality 1.1%). On a median follow-up time of 4 years no deaths and no heart-failure events have occurred; one patient underwent further cardiac surgery programmed at the time of discharge.

Conclusions

Low mortality and morbidity rates can be obtained in high-surgical complexity adults with CHD populations when paediatric and adult cardiac specialists operate in the same multidisciplinary environment.
Asymptomatic atresia of the anomalous pulmonary vein in a patient with scimitar syndrome presenting in childhood
Authors: O’Byrne Michael L. , Cross Russell R. , Martin Gerard R.
Published: August 2017

An asymptomatic 6-year-old boy with a history of right lung hypoplasia was referred for cardiology evaluation. Echocardiography demonstrated right pulmonary artery hypoplasia with flow reversal in that vessel. The right pulmonary veins were not visualised in the echocardiogram. Cardiac catheterisation confirmed the diagnosis of scimitar syndrome with a characteristic large vertical vein; however, the right pulmonary veins were found to be atretic with no connection to the heart with decompression through the azygos vein. In all, four systemic to pulmonary arterial collaterals were identified, supplying the right lung, which were occluded using embolization coils. This case demonstrates the potential for progressive stenosis and atresia of the so-called “scimitar vein” without previous surgical instrumentation, and that this can occur without haemodynamic embarrassment or development of pulmonary vascular disease.
Food appearances in children’s television programmes in Iceland
Authors: Olafsdottir Steingerdur , Berg Christina
Published: August 2017

Objective

Exposure to advertisements cannot fully explain the associations between young children’s dietary intake and the time they spend in front of the television. It is therefore of importance to study television content other than advertisements in this aspect. The present study aimed to examine the nature and extent of verbal and visual appearances of foods and beverages in children’s television programmes on Icelandic public service television.

Design

A total of 27 h of children’s programmes (domestic and internationally produced) were watched. All verbal and visual appearances of foods and beverages were coded, as well as the context in which the foods/beverages were discussed or appeared.

Setting

Children’s programmes on Icelandic public service television.

Subjects

Two food groups were of special interest for their importance from a public health perspective: high-calorie and low-nutrient (HCLN) foods and fruits and vegetables (F&V). The χ2 test and logistic regression were performed to analyse if the occurrence of the two groups was associated with the context where foods/beverages appeared.

Results

Of the 125 different programmes, a food or beverage appeared in 86 %. Of the total food appearances (n 599), HCLN foods accounted for 26 % and F&V for 23 %. HCLN foods were presented as desirable by appearing more frequently with child characters (P<0·01) than F&V.

Conclusions

Public service television has the potential to improve the way food and eating is presented in children’s programmes, as young childhood is a critical period for founding healthy habits for later life.
Genome organization: connecting the developmental origins of disease and genetic variation
Authors: Jacobson E. , Vickers M. H. , Perry J. K. , O’Sullivan J. M.
Published: August 2017

An adverse early life environment can increase the risk of metabolic and other disorders later in life. Genetic variation can modify an individual’s susceptibility to these environmental challenges. These gene by environment interactions are important, but difficult, to dissect. The nucleus is the primary organelle where environmental responses impact directly on the genetic variants within the genome, resulting in changes to the biology of the genome and ultimately the phenotype. Understanding genome biology requires the integration of the linear DNA sequence, epigenetic modifications and nuclear proteins that are present within the nucleus. The interactions between these layers of information may be captured in the emergent spatial genome organization. As such genome organization represents a key research area for decoding the role of genetic variation in the Developmental Origins of Health and Disease.
Developing an Integrated Weed Management System for Herbicide-Resistant Weeds Using Lentil (Lens culinaris) as a Model Crop
Authors: Redlick Colleen , Syrovy Lena D. , Duddu Hema S. N. , Benaragama Dilshan , Johnson Eric N. , Willenborg Christian J. , Shirtliffe Steven J.
Published: August 2017

The escalating evolution of weed species resistant to acetolactase synthase (ALS)-inhibitor herbicides makes alternative weed control strategies necessary for field crops that are dependent on this herbicide group. A fully integrated strategy that combined increased crop seeding rates (2X or 4X recommended), mechanical weed control with a minimum-tillage rotary hoe, and reduced-rate non–ALS inhibitor herbicides was compared with herbicides, rotary hoe, and seeding rates alone as a method of controlling ALS inhibitor–tolerant Indian mustard as a model weed. The full-rate herbicide treatment had the lowest weed biomass (98% reduction) and the highest yield of all treatments in 3 of 4 site-years, regardless of seeding rate. The fully integrated treatment at the 4X seeding rate had weed suppression rates equal to the full herbicide treatment at the recommended seeding rate. The fully integrated and reduced-rate herbicide treatments at the 4X seeding rate reduced weed biomass by 89% and 83%, respectively, compared with the control at the recommended seeding rate. The rotary hoe treatment alone resulted in poor weed control (≤38%), even at the highest seeding rate. Fully integrated and reduced-rate herbicide treatments at 2X and 4X seeding rates had yields equal to those of the full herbicide treatment at the recommended seeding rate. Partially or fully integrated weed control strategies that combine increased crop seeding rates and reduced-rate non–ALS inhibitor herbicides, with or without the use of a rotary hoe, can control weeds resistant to ALS-inhibitor herbicides, while maintaining crop yields similar to those achieved with full-rate herbicides. However, combining increased seeding rate, reduced-rate herbicides, and mechanical rotary hoe treatment into a fully integrated strategy maximized weed control, while reducing reliance on and selection pressure against any single weed control tactic.
Honoring Earth and Space Scientists
Authors:   AGU
Published: August 2017

AGU members and others in the news.
A New Platform for Managing Soil Carbon and Soil Health
Authors: Loisel Julie , Malhotra Avni , Phillips Claire
Published: August 2017

International Soil Carbon Network Workshop; Stanford, California, 27 February to 3 March 2017
White light emission from a single organic molecule with dual phosphorescence at room temperature
Authors: He Zikai , Zhao Weijun , Lam Jacky W. Y. , Peng Qian , Ma Huili , Liang Guodong , Shuai Zhigang , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: August 2017

The development of single molecule white light emitters is extremely challenging for pure phosphorescent metal-free system at room temperature. Here we report a single pure organic phosphor, namely 4-chlorobenzoyldibenzothiophene, emitting white room temperature phosphorescence with Commission Internationale de l’Éclair-age coordinates of (0.33, 0.35). Experimental and theoretical investigations reveal that the white light emission is emerged from dual phosphorescence, which emit from the first and second excited triplet states. We also demonstrate the validity of the strategy to achieve metal-free pure phosphorescent single molecule white light emitters by intrasystem mixing dual room temperature phosphorescence arising from the low- and high-lying triplet states.
Convergent Akt activation drives acquired EGFR inhibitor resistance in lung cancer
Authors: Jacobsen Kirstine , Bertran-Alamillo Jordi , Molina Miguel Angel , Teixidó Cristina , Karachaliou Niki , Pedersen Martin Haar , Castellví Josep , Garzón Mónica , Codony-Servat Carles , Codony-Servat Jordi , Giménez-Capitán Ana , Drozdowskyj Ana , Viteri Santiago , Larsen Martin R. , Lassen Ulrik , Felip Enriqueta , Bivona Trever G. , Ditzel Henrik J. , Rosell Rafael
Published: August 2017

Non-small-cell lung cancer patients with activating epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations typically benefit from ﻿EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor treatment. However, virtually all patients succumb to acquired EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance that occurs via diverse mechanisms. The diversity and unpredictability of EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance mechanisms presents a challenge for developing new treatments to overcome EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance. Here, we show that Akt activation is a convergent feature of acquired EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance, across a spectrum of diverse, established upstream resistance mechanisms. Combined treatment with an EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor and Akt inhibitor causes apoptosis and synergistic growth inhibition in multiple EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor-resistant non-small-cell lung cancer models. Moreover, phospho-Akt levels are increased in most clinical specimens obtained from EGFR-mutant non-small-cell lung cancer patients with acquired EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance. Our findings provide a rationale for clinical trials testing Akt and EGFR inhibitor co-treatment in patients with elevated phospho-Akt levels to therapeutically combat the heterogeneity of EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance mechanisms.
Stromal and epithelial transcriptional map of initiation progression and metastatic potential of human prostate cancer
Authors: Tyekucheva Svitlana , Bowden Michaela , Bango Clyde , Giunchi Francesca , Huang Ying , Zhou Chensheng , Bondi Arrigo , Lis Rosina , Van Hemelrijck Mieke , Andrén Ove , Andersson Sven-Olof , Watson R. William , Pennington Stephen , Finn Stephen P. , Martin Neil E. , Stampfer Meir J. , Parmigiani Giovanni , Penney Kathryn L. , Fiorentino Michelangelo , Mucci Lorelei A. , Loda Massimo
Published: August 2017

While progression from normal prostatic epithelium to invasive cancer is driven by molecular alterations, tumor cells and cells in the cancer microenvironment are co-dependent and co-evolve. Few human studies to date have focused on stroma. Here, we performed gene expression profiling of laser capture microdissected normal non-neoplastic prostate epithelial tissue and compared it to non-transformed and neoplastic low-grade and high-grade prostate epithelial tissue from radical prostatectomies, each with its immediately surrounding stroma. Whereas benign epithelium in prostates with and without tumor were similar in gene expression space, stroma away from tumor was significantly different from that in prostates without cancer. A stromal gene signature reflecting bone remodeling and immune-related pathways was upregulated in high compared to low-Gleason grade cases. In validation data, the signature discriminated cases that developed metastasis from those that did not. These data suggest that the microenvironment may influence prostate cancer initiation, maintenance, and metastatic progression.
The cytoplasmic nuclear receptor RARγ controls RIP1 initiated cell death when cIAP activity is inhibited
Authors: Xu Qing , Jitkaew Siriporn , Choksi Swati , Kadigamuwa Chamila , Qu Jianhui , Choe Moran , Jang Jonathan , Liu Chengyu , Liu Zheng-gang
Published: August 2017

Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) has a critical role in diverse cellular events including inflammation, apoptosis and necroptosis through different signaling complexes. However, little is known about how the transition from inflammatory signaling to the engagement of death pathways is modulated. Here we report that the cytoplasmic retinoic acid receptor gamma (RARγ) controls receptor-interacting protein kinase 1 (RIP1)-initiated cell death when cellular inhibitor of apoptosis (cIAP) activity is blocked. Through screening a short hairpin RNA library, we found that RARγ was essential for TNF-induced RIP1-initiated apoptosis and necroptosis. Our data suggests that RARγ initiates the formation of death signaling complexes by mediating RIP1 dissociation from TNF receptor 1. We demonstrate that RARγ is released from the nucleus to orchestrate the formation of the cytosolic death complexes. In addition, we demonstrate that RARγ has a similar role in TNF-induced necroptosis in vivo. Thus, our study suggests that nuclear receptor RARγ provides a key checkpoint for the transition from life to death.