bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The implementation of NEMS GFS Aerosol Component (NGAC) Version 2.0 for global multispecies forecasting at NOAA/NCEP – Part 2: Evaluation of aerosol optical thickness
Authors: Bhattacharjee Partha Sarathi , Wang Jun , Lu Cheng-Hsuan , Tallapragada Vijay
Published: June 2018

Abstract. An accurate representation of aerosols in global numerical weather prediction
(NWP) models is important to predict major air pollution events and to also
understand aerosol effects on short-term weather forecasts. Recently the
global aerosol forecast model at NOAA, the NOAA Environmental Modeling System
(NEMS) GFS Aerosol Component (NGAC), was upgraded from its dust-only
version 1 to include five species of aerosols (black carbon, organic carbon,
sulfate, sea salt and dust). This latest upgrade, now called NGACv2, is an
in-line aerosol forecast system providing three-dimensional aerosol mixing
ratios along with aerosol optical properties, including aerosol optical
thickness (AOT), every 3 h up to 5 days at global
1∘×1∘ resolution. In this paper, we evaluated
nearly 1.5 years of model AOT at 550 nm with available satellite retrievals,
multi-model ensembles and surface observations over different aerosol
regimes. Evaluation results show that NGACv2 has high correlations and low
root mean square errors associated with African dust and also accurately
represented the seasonal shift in aerosol plumes from Africa. Also, the model
represented southern African and Canadian forest fires, dust from Asia, and
AOT within the US with some degree of success. We have identified model
underestimation for some of the aerosol regimes (particularly over Asia) and
will investigate this further to improve the model forecast. The addition of
a data assimilation capability to NGAC in the near future is expected to
provide a positive impact in aerosol forecast by the model.
TAMSAT-ALERT v1: a new framework for agricultural decision support
Authors: Asfaw Dagmawi , Black Emily , Brown Matthew , Nicklin Kathryn Jane , Otu-Larbi Frederick , Pinnington Ewan , Challinor Andrew , Maidment Ross , Quaife Tristan
Published: June 2018

Abstract. Early warning of weather-related hazards enables farmers, policy makers and
aid agencies to mitigate their exposure to risk. We present a new operational
framework, Tropical Applications of Meteorology using SATellite data and
ground based measurements-AgricuLtural EaRly warning sysTem (TAMSAT-ALERT),
which aims to provide early warning for meteorological risk to agriculture.
TAMSAT-ALERT combines information on land-surface properties, seasonal
forecasts and historical weather to quantitatively assess the likelihood of
adverse weather-related outcomes, such as low yield. This article describes
the modular TAMSAT-ALERT framework and demonstrates its application to risk
assessment for low maize yield in northern Ghana (Tamale). The modular design
of TAMSAT-ALERT enables it to accommodate any impact or land-surface model
driven with meteorological data. The implementation described here uses the
well-established General Large Area Model (GLAM) for annual crops to provide
probabilistic assessments of the meteorological hazard for maize yield in
northern Ghana (Tamale) throughout the growing season. The results show that
climatic risk to yield is poorly constrained in the beginning of the season,
but as the season progresses, the uncertainty is rapidly reduced. Based on the
assessment for the period 2002–2011, we show that TAMSAT-ALERT can
estimate the meteorological risk on maize yield 6 to 8 weeks in advance
of harvest. The TAMSAT-ALERT methodology implicitly weights forecast and
observational inputs according to their relevance to the metric being
assessed. A secondary application of TAMSAT-ALERT is thus an evaluation of the
usefulness of meteorological forecast products for impact assessment. Here,
we show that in northern Ghana (Tamale), the tercile seasonal forecasts of
seasonal cumulative rainfall and mean temperature, which are routinely issued
to farmers, are of limited value because regional and seasonal temperature and
rainfall are poorly correlated with yield. This finding speaks to the
pressing need for meteorological forecast products that are tailored for
individual user applications.
Dynamics of wormhole formation in fractured karst aquifers
Authors: Dreybrodt Wolfgang , Gabrovšek Franci
Published: June 2018

Abstract. The most spectacular wormholes are caves in fractured limestone terrains. Here, a model of their evolution is presented. The modeling domain is a two-dimensional square net consisting of one-dimensional fractures with given width b and length l. To each of the fractures one designs a constant aperture width, a, (homogeneous net) or an aperture width taken from a lognormal distribution (heterogeneous net). The boundary conditions are constant head h at the input driving the water downstream to the output at h = 0. Linear dissolution kinetics, controlled by surface kinetics and diffusion are active. First we discuss the simple case of a homogeneous net. Two steps in its evolution are observed. In the first, all fractures are widened evenly and a homogeneous even dissolution front progresses slowly into the aquifer. The second step is triggered by an instability when, due to small perturbations, some of the foremost fractures gain length compared to the neighboring ones. Then, these fractures eject flow using the parallel resistances of the net. This way they attract more fresh aggressive water and their propagation is enhanced. Several wormholes (caves) are penetrating into the aquifer but only one reaches the output, whereas the others stop growing due to the redistribution of hydraulic heads caused by the leading wormhole. The mechanisms governing the evolution of a single wormhole are explored by increasing the aperture width of one selected input fracture by Δa
Autonomous ice sheet surface mass balance measurements from cosmic rays
Authors: Howat Ian M. , de la Peña Santiago , Desilets Darin , Womack Gary
Published: June 2018

Abstract. Observations of mass accumulation and net balance on glaciers
and ice sheets are sparse due to the difficulty of acquiring manual
measurements and the lack of a reliable remote-sensing method. The
methodology for recording the water-equivalent accumulation of snowfall using
the attenuation of fast neutrons generated by cosmic ray impacts was
developed in the 1970s and has been employed in large-network snowpack
monitoring but has yet to be applied to glaciers and ice sheets. In order to
assess this potential method, we installed a cosmic ray neutron-sensing
device at Summit Camp, Greenland, in April 2016. Hourly neutron count was
recorded for ∼ 24 months and converted to water-equivalent thickness
after correcting for variability in atmospheric pressure and incoming cosmic
radiation. The daily accumulation estimates are analysed for noise level and
compared to manual surface core and snow stake network measurements. Based on
measurements of up to 56 cm of water equivalent, we estimate the sensor's
precision to be better than 1 mm for water-equivalent thicknesses less than
14 cm and better than 1 cm in up to 140 cm, or approximately 0.7 %.
Our observations agree with the surface core measurements to within their
respective errors, with temporary biases that are explained by snow drifting,
as supported by comparison to the snow stake network. Our observations reveal
large temporal variability in accumulation on daily to monthly scales, but
with similar annual totals. Based on these results, cosmic ray sensing
represents a potentially transformative method for acquiring continuous in
situ measurements of mass accumulation that may add constraint to glacier and
ice sheet mass balance estimates from meteorological models and remote
sensing.
Assessment of Anthropogenic Impact of Surface Water Quality, South Africa
Authors: Manamela Dipitseng , Awofolu Omotayo
Published: June 2018

This article investigates the impact of anthropogenic activities on an important surface water from physico-chemical, chemical and microbial perspectives. The surface water, referred to as Blesbokspruit is in the West Rand District of South Africa. Potential impactors include wastewater treatment plant, mines, farmlands and informal settlements. Water samples were collected from nine purposively selected sampling points and analysed in 2014. The mean values of analysed variables across sampling sites and periods ranged from pH: 7.4-8.4; EC: 93.0 - 146.6 mS/m; TSS: 11.3 – 39.0 mg/L; TDS: 590.3 - 1020.3 mg/L; COD: 15.6- 34.8 mg/L. Those for anions varied from NO3-: 0.2- 2.1 (mg/L) N; PO43- : 0.4-0.9 mg/L and SO42-: 118.6 - 379.5 mg/L. The metallic variables ranged from As: 0.01-0.06 mg/L; Cd: 0.02-0.06 mg/L; Fe: 0.04-0.73 mg/L; Cu: 0.02 – 0.05 mg/L and Zn: 0.05 – 0.15 mg/L. The Faecal coliform varied from 15.9-16878.5 cfu/100 ml; Total coliform: 92.9-430294 cfu/100 ml and HPC from 4322.5-39776 cfu/1ml. Detection of toxic metals and pathogenic organisms above target safety limits indicate unsuitability of the water for domestic use with impact on the health of aquatic ecosystem. The study generally revealed the impact of anthropogenic activities on the surface water quality.
Firm Internal Factors and Competitive Position of Export-oriented Companies in Pakistan: Evidence from the Textile Sector
Authors: Abbas Syed Zagham , Nadeem Syed Amad
Published: June 2018

Different internal factors that affect the competitive position of export-oriented firms in Pakistan have been investigated in this paper. The sample is based on firms which are involved in the textile trade and are listed on Pakistan Stock Exchange. Results of empirical analysis show that return on assets has negative relation with leverage. Similarly, the results of our empirical analysis show that size has a negative relation with ROE. Liquidity has a positive relation with ROA, whereas growth and exports do not have any observable effect on competitive position of a firm.
Reading Habits Amongst University Undergraduates: Implications for Academic Performance
Authors: Labo-Popoola Serifat Olubunmi
Published: June 2018

Human beings transmit knowledge from one generation to another through many ways/skills. This is why the human being is different from other creatures. One of the many tools used by humans is reading. Reading is, no doubt, a complex but very important skill needed by everyone who wishes to succeed in life. The ultimate goal of reading is to be able to understand/comprehend written material, evaluate it, and use the material for one’s need. Comprehension, therefore, is required of the material read. Reading has a lot to do in one’s life as it is the foundation of enjoyment in life; it is equally a valuable key needed to carry out certain skills. For every student, reading takes a large chunk of time in academic pursuit if he/she plans to succeed. A student who finds it difficult to engage in serious reading is not likely to do well in his/her studies. A student must be able to read fluently to gain comprehension, thereby improving in his/her studies. Today, casual observation of students have shown that students do not want to engage in reading, let alone in serious reading, though when confronted with examinations, they are compelled to read. The age of reading novels, science fiction, etc. seems gone. If this is the situation, how do they fare in their academics? This study is therefore conducted to investigate/assess students’ reading habits/culture and how this impacted on their level of intelligence or academics. Four research questions guided the conduct of the research work. A questionnaire was used for data collection from university undergraduates. The data obtained was analyzed quantitatively using the Statistical Package for Social Science. The study reported a high perception of reading among the university undergraduates. The respondents agreed with the proposition that there exists a relationship between reading and their academic performance. Though there is a decline in reading, this can be addressed by inculcating reading as a subject into the academic curriculum at the tertiary level. Other means are establishing reading clubs/centres/clinics in and around the higher institutions. The paper therefore recommends that teachers/ lecturers should be equipped with trainings that will make them teach reading effectively. The General Studies Programme of all Universities should incorporate reading as a course into the curriculum of the Programme.
Customer Experience in Social Commerce Websites: Toward an Integrated Conceptual Framework
Authors: Beyari Hasan , Ghouth Alaa
Published: June 2018

Social Commerce (SC) is the new stream of e-commerce, as it takes advantage of the interactive information technology platforms and help customers on their online activates. Although social commerce is another phase of e-commerce, the factors that influence customer experience in social commerce might not be the same as the factors that influence customer experience in e-commerce. This paper identifies the relationships that affect the customer experience phenomenon with respect to social commerce. To analyze the measurement and structural models, the authors employed “the Smart PLS application program, particularly the Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling” (PLS-SEM) technique. This study is an in-depth analysis of the factors that influence customer experience in social commerce, which may add value to the existing literature on social commerce.
Women's Empowerment Model through Development of Households Industry Locally Specific in District of Abang, Karangasem Regency
Authors: Sri Astiti Ni Wayan , Darmawan Dwi Putra , Raka Sarjana Dewa Gede
Published: June 2018

This study aims to identify the profile of households handicraft industries and to propose strengthening women’s strategic role models through the development of households industries locally specific. Household industry profiles were analyzed descriptively and The Analytic Network Process (ANP) was selected as women's empowerment priority decision analysis tools and Super Decisions software as supporters.The results showed that (a) most household’s handicraft industries in the District of Abang, Karangasem Regency, Bali Province are classified as business-type starters and undeveloped; (b) rural people assume that women's businesses are conducted merely as a sideline and there has been no attempt to reach a wider market segment; (c) the contribution of women in the household handicraft industry can be summed up very strong, but not as a profitable business for themselves; (d) the results of Analytic Network Process (ANP) showed that the strengthening of the competence of human resources is the best alternative to the empowerment of women by relative priority of 39%.It is therefore, in applying the strategy of strengthening the competency of human resources, women need to incorporate important strategic orientation and product innovation capabilities in order to expand the business and in turn is able to increase the scale of their business from households scale only becomes SMEs.
Multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging-transrectal ultrasoundguided cognitive fusion biopsy of the prostate: Clinically significant cancer detection rates stratified by the Prostate Imaging and Data Reporting System version 2 assessment categories
Authors: John Susan , Cooper Steven , Breau Rodney H. , Flood Trevor A. , Cagiannos Ilias , Lavallée Luke T. , Morash Christopher , O’Sullivan Joseph , Schieda Nicola
Published: June 2018

Introduction: We aimed to report the clinically significant prostate cancer (PCa) detection rate in men undergoing magnetic resonance imaging-transrectal ultrasound (MRI-TRUS)-cognitive fusion (CF) targeted biopsies stratified by the Prostate Imaging and Data Reporting System (PI-RADS) version 2 (v2) scores.

Methods: With a quality assurance waiver from the institutional review board, we identified a cohort of men who underwent MRITRUS- CF and synchronous template biopsy from 2015–2017. MRI (PI-RADS v2 score, lesion size, lesion location [peripheral or transition zone (PZ/TZ)]), and CF-TRUS biopsy (operator experience, TRUS visibility, and number of biopsies) features were extracted. The primary outcome was diagnosis of clinically significant (Gleason score ≥3+4=7 or International Society of Urological Pathology [ISUP] grade group ≥2) PCa.

Results: During the study period, 131 men (with 142 PI-RADS v2 score ≥3 lesions) met inclusion criteria; 98 men had previously negative template biopsy and 33 were on active surveillance for previously detected low-grade PCa. In total, 41.9% (55/131) men had clinically significant PCa — 17.6% (23/131) detected on targeted biopsy only, 8.4% (11/131) on template biopsy only, and 16.0% (21/131) on both targeted and template biopsy. Clinically significant PCa detection stratified by PI-RADS v2 scores were: 11.1% (3/27) for score 3 (indeterminate), 42.9% (24/56) for score 4 (significant cancer likely), and 35.6% (21/59) for score 5 (significant cancer very likely). Clinically significant PCa detection rates in targeted biopsies were better among PZ (41.8% [33/79]) compared to TZ (23.8% [15/63]) lesions (p=0.025) in TRUS-visible lesions (p=0.033) and in the most experienced radiologists (p=0.05), with no difference by lesion size or number of additional core biopsies performed (all p>0.05).

Conclusions: CF-MRI-TRUS-guided targeted biopsy yielded substantially lower rates of clinically significant cancer in PI-RADS v2 score 4 and 5 lesions when compared to published results using in-bore MR-guided or automated MRI-TRUS fusion guidance systems. Cancer detection was worst for TZ lesions.
Language Attitude of Sellers in Traditional Market Toward Karonese Language
Authors: Ginting Siti Aisyah
Published: June 2018

The purpose of this study was to find out the trades attitude towards the karonese language in Indonesia. Therefore, descriptive analysis research was conducted to get the relevan findings in this study. The data were collected by using interview and documentation techniques. Furthermore, the data were analyzed qualitatively on language attitude. The Finding of this study was there were 12 traders consists of 10 male traders and 2 female traders (67%) of respondents showed positive attitudes towards Karonese Language. They said that they are responsible to use Karonese Language since it is their personal identity. In addition, There was nobody using Karonese Language unless themselves. While the researcher found 6 female traders (33%) of respondents showed negative attitudes since they usually use Indonesian Language in their daily life activities because their husbands are not Karonese. In conclusion, all male gave positive attitude towards karonese language in traditional market in Indonesia and some females give negative attitude towards karonese language in traditional market in Indonesia.
New Bounds on Poisson Approximation for Random Sums of Independent Binomial Random Variables}
Authors: Le Giang Truong
Published: June 2018

In this paper, we use the Stein-Chen method to obtain new bounds on Poisson approximation for random sums of  independent binomial random variables. Some results related to sums of independent binomial distributed random variables are also investigated. The received results in the present study are more general and sharper than some known results.
The Impact of Sidewalks on Vehicle-Pedestrian Crash Severity
Authors: Doustmohammadi Mehrnaz , Bidabadi Niloufar Shirani , Kesaveraddy Sumalatha , Anderson Michael
Published: June 2018

Walking is a sustainable mode of transportation that has several benefits related to improved health and reducing traffic congestion. The drawback to walking as a mode of transportation is the increased potential to be involved in a severe crash, which is greater than when two automobiles are involved in a crash. This paper provides a statistical analysis of pedestrian crashes that occurred in two Alabama cities where the crashes are divided into those where a sidewalk was present and those where a sidewalk was not present. The goal of the paper is to determine the difference in crash experiences and variables that contribute to vehicle-pedestrian crashes associated with the presence of the sidewalk. The paper uses binary logistic regression to develop models of pedestrian crashes and evaluates the models to determine factors that contribute the pedestrian crashes. The paper concludes that pedestrian crashes often happen in the evenings, with low lighting and visibility levels, independent of the presence of sidewalks.
Applying Design Thinking as a Method for Teaching Packaging Design
Authors: Yang Chao-Ming
Published: June 2018

Design thinking is a human-centered creative method that can be used to seek innovative solutions for life and social topics. Moreover, design thinking can enable developing innovative ideas that can satisfy consumer needs. A packaging design course is a professional course that combines material application, design aesthetics, and branding. It is also a comprehensive science course that emphasizes developing students’ creative thinking and the ability to use practical technologies. This study applied an experimental teaching method to introduce design thinking in a packaging design course. The aim was to guide students to identify problems from the perspectives of product packaging, brand image, spatial structure, and marketing. Students were expected to be able to reconsider the meaning and importance of packaging design and thus enhance their structural creativity, visual aesthetics, and design thinking, in addition to improving their rational analysis and design problem-solving abilities.
A Cultural Interpretation of the Bodies of Marginalized People in Welty’s - A Curtain of Green and Other Stories
Authors: Liu Liu , Sun Yu
Published: June 2018

A Curtain of Green and Other Stories is a collection of short stories written by Southern American writer Eudora Welty. In the story collection, Welty portrays life and people in Mississippi in the first half of the 20th century, including quite a few marginalized people. Being a photographer as well, Welty has a unique vision for body expression. This essay tries to make an analysis of the body narration of two types of marginalized people in A Curtain of Green and Other Stories, including physically disabled people and black people. By analyzing the body culture in Welty’s works, this essay tries to give a vivid picture of Southern marginalized people’s daily existence, probe into the social circumstances of Southern America in early 20th century, and find a new perspective to interpret Southern American culture.
Beëindigingsbedingen zijn helemaal het einde, of toch niet?
Authors: Schelhaas H.N. , Spanjaard J.H.M.
Published: June 2018

Beëindigingsbedingen zijn helemaal het einde, of toch niet?

Een veel gekozen boilerplateclausule in contracten is de beëindigingsclausule. Niet altijd wordt echter duidelijk gemaakt welke wijze van beëindiging partijen beogen: een vorm van ontbinding in de zin van artikel 6:265 BWof een bijzondere contractuele beëindigingsvorm? Auteurs bespreken de leerstukken van opzegging en ontbinding en bespreken in dat kader de voors en tegens van veel gekozen beëindigingsclausules.
Smart contracts?
Authors: Stam J.K.
Published: June 2018

Smart contracts?

De termen ‘smart contracts’ en ‘blockchain’ kunnen verwarrend zijn. Zo hoeven smart contracts geen contracten te zijn, maar kunnen ze dat wel zijn. Ze zijn, anders dan de naam wellicht doet vermoeden, nog niet intelligent (althans: niet in combinatie met een blockchain). En hoewel vaak gesproken wordt van de blockchain, is er niet slechts één (soort). Dit artikel beoogt misverstanden met betrekking tot de relatief nieuwe termen smart contracts en blockchain te voorkomen.
Atravessar as fronteiras da modernidade: movimentos de transversalidade no contexto europeu e brasileiro.
Authors: Leal Fernandes Barbosa Aline
Published: June 2018

Se os paradigmas estéticos da modernidade buscavam acentuar a autonomia da arte, sua radical separação de qualquer interesse exterior à própria obra, a distância entre expressões culturais altas e baixas, assistimos contemporaneamente à crescente aproximação entre as esferas culturais, apostando no intercâmbio horizontal em detrimento da verticalização polarizada e sinalizando a necessidade de novos recortes que permitam dar conta da tenuidade das fronteiras entre a chamada alta cultura e a cultura midiática de mercado.
O espaço liminar das listas em romances em inglês
Authors: Sá Luiz Fernando Ferreira
Published: June 2018

A esperança, a imagem e a resposta utópicas discutidas por Terry Eagleton e Georg Lukács se tornam evidentes em The studhorse man de Robert Kroetsch, Waiting for the barbarians de J. M. Coetzee, The god of small things de Arundhati Roy e City of god de E. L. Doctorow na maneira que os conflitos são, se não resolvidos, pelo menos revestidos de uma aparência insólita nas coisas e objetos inventariados em listas. Proponho pensar como as listas nos referidos romances participam na ruptura da linguagem, no colapso da narrativa, no confronto de perspectivas, na fragilidade do valor e na vacuidade de sentido. Estes romances em inglês tendem a nos dar um tipo de atalho na percepção por meio do uso de listas, enumerações e inventários, os quais suspendem a linguagem, a narrativa, a subjetividade, o valor e o sentido, em sua confusa voracidade e infinidade.
Framing and Bias: A Literature Review of Recent Findings
Authors: Beratšová Adriana , Krchová Kristína , Gažová Nikola , Jirásek Michal
Published: June 2018

Framing bias is an individual decision-making misconception caused by the fact that a person interprets the surrounding world according to a decision frame chosen by her or his subjective opinion. This article aims to review various kinds of factors that cause and affect framing or lead to debiasing, i.e. a decrease in the resulting framing bias. The objective of the study is carried out using a literature review that analyzes recent empirical studies. As a result, numerous factors are identified that according to the studies have an impact on framing. It transpires that four broader groups of these factors can be established – decision situation setup (amount of information, additional presentation of options), experience (knowledge, engagement), effort (attention, complexity, the amount of information to process) and demographics (gender, nationality).
A mountain of millipedes VII: The genus Eviulisoma Silvestri, 1910, in the Udzungwa Mountains, Tanzania, and related species from other Eastern Arc Mountains. With notes on Eoseviulisoma Brolemann, 1920, and Suohelisoma Hoffman, 1963 (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Paradoxosomatidae)
Authors: Enghoff Henrik
Published: June 2018

Twenty-two new species of the genus Eviulisoma Silvestri, 1910, from the Eastern Arc Mountains, Tanzania, are described: E. acaciae sp. nov., E. aequilobatum sp. nov., E. akkariae sp. nov., E. angulatum sp. nov., E. articulatum sp. nov., E. biquintum sp. nov., E. breviscutum sp. nov., E. cetafi sp. nov., E. chitense sp. nov., E. commelina sp. nov., E. coxale sp. nov., E. ejti sp. nov., E. grumslingslak sp. nov., E. kalimbasiense sp. nov., E. navuncus sp. nov., E. nessiteras sp. nov., E. ottokrausi sp. nov., E. paradisiacum sp. nov., E. sternale sp. nov. and E. zebra sp. nov. from the Udzungwa Mts, E. culter sp. nov. from the Rubeho Mts and E. kangense sp. nov. from the Kanga Mts. Eviulisoma kwabuniense Kraus, 1958, and E. dabagaense Kraus, 1958, both from the Udzungwa Mts, are redesribed based on new material. Notes are provided on E. iuloideum (Verhoeff, 1941) based on type material. Eoseviulisoma Brolemann, 1920, is synonymized under Eviulisoma, based on newly collected material of E. julinum (Attems, 1909), type species of Eoseviulisoma. New material of Suohelisoma ulugurense Hoffman, 1964, type species of Suohelisoma Hoffman, 1964, has revealed that the gonopod structure is more similar to that of Eviulisoma than originally thought, but Suohelisoma is retained as a valid genus. Four species groups are recognized among Eviulisoma species from the Udzungwa Mts, but the need for a revision of the entire genus is emphasized. Two types of epizootic fungi are recorded from Eviulisoma spp., and an enigmatic amorphous mass, which may be a kind of plugging substance, is recorded from the gonopod tips and excavated sixth sternum of several species.
Pojavnost in mesto razmika preme trebušne mišice pri nosečnicah in otročnicah v porodnišnici Ljubljana
Authors: Šerbec Medjimurec Mateja , Mihelj Erika , Šćepanović Darija
Published: June 2018

Background: The purpose of the research was to determine the prevalence and location of diastasis recti abdominis muscle (DRA) during pregnancy and puerperium in women in the Ljubljana maternity hospital.Methods: The study sample included sixty randomly selected women; forty-five pregnant and postpartum women were recruited from the Ljubljana Maternity Hospital, and fifteen non-pregnant women from the larger Ljubljana area as a control group. All women were examined for the presence or absence of diastasis recti abdominis muscle along with the most and least likely location along the white lines. The measurements were performed by the finger-width method.Results: The findings indicate that the diastasis recti abdominis muscle increases with the progression of pregnancy. In the case of non-pregnant women, the diastasis is not present. The presence of DRA was first observed in the second trimester of pregnancy (9.5 %) and was most common in the third trimester (52.4 %). After birth, the incidence decreased (38.1 %). The majority of diastasis recti abdominis cases were observed in the umbilical area (52.6 %) in the third trimester. In the puerperium group three days after childbirth the diastasis below the umbilicus was most common (60.0 %) and slightly less common above the umbilicus (53.8 %).Conclusion: Diastasis recti abdominis muscle during pregnancy and after childbirth is a common condition. It is therefore recommended that all women should be timely examined for the presence of DRA before and after birth along the linea alba to start timely and adequate physiotherapy treatment. Health professionals as well as sports teachers and coaches who work with pregnant and puerperium women should be educated/trained in the field of testing and treatment of diastasis recti abdominis muscle.
Pratique de gouvernance éducative multijoueur et leadership partagé : la direction, les parents et les membres de la communauté
Authors: Lacroix Isabelle
Published: June 2018

Depuis plusieurs années, au Québec comme ailleurs, les États ont approfondi et intensifié la gouvernance multijoueur dans leur pratique de gestion publique (Côté, Lévesque et Morneau, 2007; Hamel et Jouve, 2006; Gaudin, 2002). Le secteur de l’éducation a suivi cette tendance et a notamment accru de façon importante la participation des acteurs concernés (Meyer, 2014; Lacroix, 2012; Paquet, 2010; Brassard, 2007; Lessard et Brassard, 2006; Landry et Haché, 2001). Dans le présent article, nous nous intéressons à la gouvernance multijoueur et plus particulièrement à l’espace qu’elle crée pour l’exercice d’un leadership véritablement partagé (Luc, 2010; Harris et Spillane, 2008). Ainsi, nous avons étudié les pratiques de gouvernance et de leadership partagé — notamment entre les directions, les parents et les membres de la communauté — au sein de deux commissions scolaires québécoises au moyen d’entrevues et d’observations. Les résultats de nos analyses ont fait ressortir les aspects facilitant le partage du leadership et les contraintes inhérentes à cette pratique de gouverne.
Human primary T cells: A practical guide
Authors: Aksoy Bulent Arman , Aksoy Pinar , Wyatt Megan , Paulos Chrystal , Hammerbacher Jeff
Published: June 2018

Human primary T cells are invaluable and feasible model systems to study the characteristics of the immune cells in various contexts, including but not limited to cancer immunotherapy. Following isolation of T cells from fresh human blood samples, it is possible to culture, expand, and manipulate these cells, which allows extensive investigation for research purposes. Techniques for isolation and handling of T cells are well-established but parts of the protocols can highly vary across different labs. These differences in the protocols are there due to historical reasons and are often only supported by anecdotal evidence. We systematically modified basic components of the T cell culturing protocols and collected data on how they altered the final yield. Here, based on these data, we provide practical hints and tips on basic cellular and molecular techniques for handling primary human T cells. We hope that this guide will serve as a reference point to allow evaluate, discuss, and improve current practices in T cell culturing and manipulation.
Local and global influences on protein turnover in neurons and glia
Authors: Dörrbaum Aline R , Kochen Lisa , Langer Julian D , Schuman Erin M
Published: June 2018

Regulation of protein turnover allows cells to react to their environment and maintain homeostasis. Proteins can show different turnover rates in different tissue, but little is known about protein turnover in different brain cell types. We used dynamic SILAC to determine half-lives of over 5100 proteins in rat primary hippocampal cultures as well as in neuron-enriched and glia-enriched cultures ranging from <1 to >20 days. In contrast to synaptic proteins, membrane proteins were relatively shorter-lived and mitochondrial proteins were longer-lived compared to the population. Half-lives also correlate with protein functions and the dynamics of the complexes they are incorporated in. Proteins in glia possessed shorter half-lives than the same proteins in neurons. The presence of glia sped up or slowed down the turnover of neuronal proteins. Our results demonstrate that both the cell-type of origin as well as the nature of the extracellular environment have potent influences on protein turnover.
A new mode of pancreatic islet innervation revealed by live imaging in zebrafish
Authors: Yang Yu Hsuan Carol , Kawakami Koichi , Stainier Didier YR
Published: June 2018

Pancreatic islets are innervated by autonomic and sensory nerves that influence their function. Analyzing the innervation process should provide insight into the nerve-endocrine interactions and their roles in development and disease. Here, using in vivo time-lapse imaging and genetic analyses in zebrafish, we determined the events leading to islet innervation. Comparable neural density in the absence of vasculature indicates that it is dispensable for early pancreatic innervation. Neural crest cells are in close contact with endocrine cells early in development. We find these cells give rise to neurons that extend axons toward the islet as they surprisingly migrate away. Specific ablation of these neurons partly prevents other neurons from migrating away from the islet resulting in diminished innervation. Thus, our studies establish the zebrafish as a model to interrogate mechanisms of organ innervation, and reveal a novel mode of innervation whereby neurons establish connections with their targets before migrating away.
Synergy in anti-malarial pre-erythrocytic and transmission-blocking antibodies is achieved by reducing parasite density
Authors: Sherrard-Smith Ellie , Sala Katarzyna A , Betancourt Michael , Upton Leanna M , Angrisano Fiona , Morin Merribeth J , Ghani Azra C , Churcher Thomas S , Blagborough Andrew M
Published: June 2018

Anti-malarial pre-erythrocytic vaccines (PEV) target transmission by inhibiting human infection but are currently partially protective. It has been posited, but never demonstrated, that co-administering transmission-blocking vaccines (TBV) would enhance malaria control. We hypothesized a mechanism that TBV could reduce parasite density in the mosquito salivary glands, thereby enhancing PEV efficacy. This was tested using a multigenerational population assay, passaging Plasmodium berghei to Anopheles stephensi mosquitoes. A combined efficacy of 90.8% (86.7–94.2%) was observed in the PEV +TBV antibody group, higher than the estimated efficacy of 83.3% (95% CrI 79.1–87.0%) if the two antibodies acted independently. Higher PEV efficacy at lower mosquito parasite loads was observed, comprising the first direct evidence that co-administering anti-sporozoite and anti-transmission interventions act synergistically, enhancing PEV efficacy across a range of TBV doses and transmission intensities. Combining partially effective vaccines of differing anti-parasitic classes is a pragmatic, powerful way to accelerate malaria elimination efforts.
Proteolytic maturation of α2δ controls the probability of synaptic vesicular release
Authors: Ferron Laurent , Kadurin Ivan , Dolphin Annette C
Published: June 2018

Auxiliary α2δ subunits are important proteins for trafficking of voltage-gated calcium channels (CaV) at the active zones of synapses. We have previously shown that the post-translational proteolytic cleavage of α2δ is essential for their modulatory effects on the trafficking of N-type (CaV2.2) calcium channels (Kadurin et al., 2016). We extend these results here by showing that the probability of presynaptic vesicular release is reduced when an uncleaved α2δ is expressed in rat neurons and that this inhibitory effect is reversed when cleavage of α2δ is restored. We also show that asynchronous release is influenced by the maturation of α2δ−1, highlighting the role of CaV channels in this component of vesicular release. We present additional evidence that CaV2.2 co-immunoprecipitates preferentially with cleaved wild-type α2δ. Our data indicate that the proteolytic maturation increases the association of α2δ−1 with CaV channel complex and is essential for its function on synaptic release.
The effect of running versus cycling high-intensity intermittent exercise on local tissue oxygenation and perceived enjoyment in 18–30-year-old sedentary men
Authors: Kriel Yuri , Askew Christopher D. , Solomon Colin
Published: June 2018

Background

High-intensity interval training (HIIT) has been proposed as a time-efficient exercise format to improve exercise adherence, thereby targeting the chronic disease burden associated with sedentary behaviour. Exercise mode (cycling, running), if self-selected, will likely affect the physiological and enjoyment responses to HIIT in sedentary individuals. Differences in physiological and enjoyment responses, associated with the mode of exercise, could potentially influence the uptake and continued adherence to HIIT. It was hypothesised that in young sedentary men, local and systemic oxygen utilisation and enjoyment would be higher during a session of running HIIT, compared to a session of cycling HIIT.

Methods

A total of 12 sedentary men (mean ± SD; age 24 ± 3 years) completed three exercise sessions: a maximal incremental exercise test on a treadmill (MAX) followed by two experiment conditions, (1) free-paced cycling HIIT on a bicycle ergometer (HIITCYC) and (2) constant-paced running HIIT on a treadmill ergometer (HIITRUN). Deoxygenated haemoglobin (HHb) in the gastrocnemius (GN), the left vastus lateralis (LVL) and the right vastus lateralis (RVL) muscles, oxygen consumption (VO2), heart rate (HR), ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) and physical activity enjoyment (PACES) were measured during HIITCYC and HIITRUN.

Results

There was a higher HHb in the LVL (p= 0.001) and RVL (p= 0.002) sites and a higher VO2(p= 0.017) and HR (p< 0.001) during HIITCYC, compared to HIITRUN. RPE was higher (p< 0.001) and PACES lower (p= 0.032) during HIITCYC compared to HIITRUN.

Discussion

In sedentary individuals, free-paced cycling HIIT produces higher levels of physiological stress when compared to constant-paced running HIIT. Participants perceived running HIIT to be more enjoyable than cycling HIIT. These findings have implications for selection of mode of HIIT for physical stress, exercise enjoyment and compliance.
Incidence of ill-health related job loss and related social and occupational factors. The “unfit for the job” study: a one-year follow-up study of 51,132 workers
Authors: Lesage Francois-Xavier , Dutheil Frederic , Godderis Lode , Divies Aymeric , Choron Guillaume
Published: June 2018

Objective

The analysis of ill-health related job loss may be a relevant indicator for the prioritization of actions in the workplace or in the field of public health, as well as a target for health promotion. The aim of this study was to analyze the medical causes, the incidence, and the characteristics of employees medically unfit to do their job.

Methods

This one-year prospective study included all workers followed by occupational physicians in an occupational health service in the south of France. The incidence of unfitness for work have been grouped according to the main medical causes and analyzed. We performed a multivariate analysis in order to adjust the observed risk of job loss based on the age groups, sex, occupation and the activity sectors.

Results

A total of 17 occupational physicians followed up 51,132 workers. The all-cause incidence of being unfit to return to one’s job was 7.8‰ (n = 398). The two main causes of being unfit for one’s job were musculoskeletal disorders (47.2%, n = 188) and mental ill-health (38.4%, n = 153). Being over 50 years old (Odds ratio (OR) 2.63, confidence interval 95% CI [2.13–3.25]) and being a woman (OR 1.52, 95% CI [1.21–1.91]) were associated with the all-cause unfitness, independent of occupation and activity sector.

Conclusions

Identification of occupational and demographic determinants independently associated with ill-health related job loss may provide significant and cost-effective arguments for health promotion and job loss prevention.
Propanal
Authors: Hensel Alexander
Published: June 2018

The article contains sections titled:1.Introduction2.Physical and Chemical Properties3.Production4.Uses4.1.Reduction4.2.Oxidation4.3.Condensation5.Quality Specifications6.Storage and Transportation7.Economic Aspects8.Toxicology and Occupational Health
Rare Earth Elements
Authors: Bünzli Jean‐Claude G. , Mcgill Ian
Published: June 2018

The article contains sections titled:1.Introduction2.Mineralogy, Abundance, Occurrence3.Properties3.1.Properties of the Nuclei3.2.Properties of the Atoms and Ions3.2.1.Electronic Configuration, Position in the Periodic Table3.2.2.Oxidation States, Atomic and Ionic Radii3.2.3.Magnetic and Spectral Properties3.2.4.Bonding, Coordination Numbers3.3.Other Chemical and Physical Properties3.3.1.Reactivity3.3.2.Crystal Structures3.3.3.Melting and Boiling Points3.3.4.Elastic Properties3.4.Miscibility and Alloying Behavior3.5.Mechanical Workability4.Digestion of Rare Earth Ores4.1.Wet Chemical Digestion4.1.1.Monazite4.1.2.Bastnaesite4.1.3.Other Ores4.2.Direct Chlorination at High Temperature5.Rare‐Earth Separation5.1.Principles of Separation5.2.Separation by Classical Methods5.2.1.Fractional Crystallization5.2.2.Fractional Precipitation5.2.3.Separations Based on Oxidation State Changes5.3.Separation by Ion Exchange5.3.1.Ion Exchange with Chelating Agents5.3.2.Separation Process5.3.3.Industrial Processes5.3.4.Disadvantages of Ion Exchange5.3.5.Molecular Recognition Processes5.4.Separation by Liquid‐Liquid Extraction5.4.1.Theoretical Basis5.4.1.1.Distribution Coefficient and Separation Factor5.4.1.2.Method of Operation5.4.2.Extractants5.4.2.1.Neutral Extractants5.4.2.2.Acidic Extractants5.4.2.3.Amines and Quaternary Ammonium Salts as Extractants5.4.2.4.Synergistic Effects5.4.2.5.Ionic Liquids5.4.3.Industrial Liquid–Liquid Extraction5.4.3.1.Separation of Europium and Yttrium Oxides5.4.3.2.Separation of Scandium6.Production of the Metals6.1.Fused‐Salt Electrolysis6.2.Metallothermic Reduction6.3.Purification7.Analysis8.Compounds8.1.Hydrides8.2.Oxides, Hydroxides, Peroxides, Salts of Inorganic Oxoacids, Double Salts8.3.Halides8.3.1.Trivalent Halides8.3.2.Tetravalent Halides8.3.3.Divalent Halides8.3.4.Monovalent Halides8.4.Chalcogenides8.5.Nitrides8.6.Carbides8.7.Coordination Compounds with Organic Ligands8.8.Organometallic Compounds9.Uses9.1.Industrial Periods9.2.Metallurgy9.2.1.Metals9.2.2.Alloys and Intermetallic Compounds9.3.Catalysts9.3.1.Fluidified Cracking Catalysts9.3.2.Automotive Catalysts9.3.3.Production of Organic Compounds9.4.Glass and Ceramic Industry9.5.Electronics9.6.Magnets9.7.Photonics9.7.1.Lasers9.7.2.Telecommunications9.7.3.Phosphors for Lighting and Displays9.7.4.Security and Identification Tags, Signage, and Structural Health Sensors9.7.4.1.Downshifting Tags9.7.4.2.Upconversion Tags9.7.4.3.Persistent‐Luminescence Phosphors9.7.4.4.Mechanoluminescent Detectors9.7.4.5.Scintillators9.7.5.Luminescent Thermometers9.8.Energy‐Related Applications9.8.1.Fuel Cells9.8.2.Photovoltaic Processes9.8.3.Luminescent Solar Concentrators and Solar Cells9.8.4.Magnetic and Optical Cooling9.8.5.Other Applications9.9.Medical Applications9.10.Miscellaneous Applications10.Economic Aspects11.Toxicology
Glycosylation and Disease
Authors: Dwek Miriam , Markiv Anatoliy
Published: June 2018

Glycosylation is the process of attachment of carbohydrates (glycans) to proteins and lipids to form the glycoproteins and glycolipids found in eukaryotic organisms. Glycosylation reactions are amongst the most common posttranslational modifications that have been reported on proteins, and they function to alter protein size, stability, charge and antigenicity. Glycosylation plays an important role in cancer, inherited diseases, pathogen–host interactions and immune recognition.

Key Concepts

The analysis of glycosylation is more complex than DNA and RNA or protein analysis as glycosylation is a non‐template‐driven event.

N‐linked glycosylation commences in the endoplasmic reticulum and is completed in the Golgi apparatus.O‐linked glycosylation commences and is completed in the Golgi apparatus.

N‐linked glycosylation occurs on asparagine residues in the consensus sequon Asn‐X‐Ser/Thr.O‐linked glycosylation occurs on serine and threonine residues.

Many enzymes are involved in bothN‐andO‐linked glycosylation.

Glycans play a role in sperm–egg interactions, the implantation process and embryonic development.

Congenital disorders in glycosylation result from autosomally dominant mutations in enzymes involved in glycosylation pathways.

Glycosylation of proteins influences their half‐life in the serum.

N‐andO‐linked glycosylation have been reported to be altered in cancer and implicated in all of the steps in the metastatic cascade.