bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Probing the “Default Network Interference Hypothesis” With EEG: An RDoC Approach Focused on Attention
Authors: Gerrits Berrie , Vollebregt Madelon A. , Olbrich Sebastian , van Dijk Hanneke , Palmer Donna , Gordon Evian , Pascual-Marqui Roberto , Kessels Roy P. C. , Arns Martijn
Published: July 2019

Studies have shown that specific networks (default mode network [DMN] and task positive network [TPN]) activate in an anticorrelated manner when sustaining attention. Related EEG studies are scarce and often lack behavioral validation. We performed independent component analysis (ICA) across different frequencies (source-level), using eLORETA-ICA, to extract brain-network activity during resting-state and sustained attention. We applied ICA to the voxel domain, similar to functional magnetic resonance imaging methods of analyses. The obtained components were contrasted and correlated to attentional performance (omission errors) in a large sample of healthy subjects (N = 1397). We identified one component that robustly correlated with inattention and reflected an anticorrelation of delta activity in the anterior cingulate and precuneus, and delta and theta activity in the medial prefrontal cortex and with alpha and gamma activity in medial frontal regions. We then compared this component between optimal and suboptimal attentional performers. For the latter group, we observed a greater change in component loading between resting-state and sustained attention than for the optimal performers. Following the National Institute of Mental Health Research Domain Criteria (RDoC) approach, we prospectively replicated and validated these findings in subjects with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Our results provide further support for the “default mode interference hypothesis.”
Peripheral and central substance P expression in rat CFA-induced TMJ synovitis pain
Authors: Xu Liqin , Jiang Henghua , Feng Yaping , Cao Pinyin , Ke Jin , Long Xing
Published: July 2019

Synovitis contributes to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain, nevertheless, the detailed nociceptive mechanism remains unclear. In this study, a rat model of TMJ synovitis was induced by intra-articular injection with complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA). After CFA-induced synovitis, pain behaviors were observed. Then, TMJ, trigeminal ganglion, and trigeminal nucleus caudalis (TNC) tissues were collected, and immunohistochemistry was used to detect the expression of substance P (SP) and protein gene product 9.5 (PGP9.5) in the synovium tissue. Furthermore, the gene expression level of SP and PGP9.5 in synovium was detected by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Afterwards, the expression of SP in the trigeminal ganglion and TNC and c-fos in the TNC was detected by immunohistochemistry. Compared with the control group, the expression of SP and PGP9.5 nerve fibers density and gene levels of them in the synovium tissue were significantly increased in CFA-induced TMJ synovitis rats. Similarly, SP expression in the trigeminal ganglion and TNC, and c-fos expression in the TNC were also obviously increased in CFA-induced TMJ synovitis rats. Collectively, CFA-induced rat TMJ synovitis resulted in obvious pain. This nociceptive reaction could be attributed to the augmented quantity of SP and PGP9.5 positive-stained nerve fibers distributed in the inflammatory synovium as well as enhanced SP expression in the trigeminal ganglion and TNC tissue. c-fos expression in the rat TNC illustrates CFA-induced TMJ synovitis can evoke the acute pain.
Identification of Anti-Helicobacter pylori Compounds From Usnea undulata
Authors: Do Trung , Nguyen Trang T.H. , Ha Thai N. , Nhu Nguyen T.H. , Van Lam Nguyen , Tram Nguyen T.T. , Pham Yen
Published: July 2019

In this study, we evaluated 3 extracts ( n-hexane, acetone, and methanol) of Usnea undulata Stirton (Usneaaceae) and 5 isolated compounds [methyl orsellinate (1), methyl β-orsellinate (2), 7-hydroxyl-5-methoxy-6-methylphtalide (3), usnic acid (UA) (4), and salazinic acid (5)] for their inhibitory activity against Helicobacter pylori. The results showed that the n-hexane extract exhibited the strongest activity with the largest inhibition zone ( d = 14 mm). For the isolated metabolites, besides UA that has been reported as a potent anti- H. pylori agent, compounds 1 and 2 showed higher inhibition compared to the reference drugs. Our results demonstrated that U. undulata could be a promising source of potential anti- H. pylori metabolites.
Invasive Plants Distribution Modeling: A Tool for Tropical Biodiversity Conservation With Special Reference to Sri Lanka
Authors: Kariyawasam Champika S. , Kumar Lalit , Ratnayake Sujith S.
Published: July 2019

The potential threats and habitat preferences of noxious plants in tropical countries are poorly known. Species distribution modeling (SDM) is a robust tool that can be used in conservation planning for early detection of invasion risks. However, the use of SDM for the strategic management of increasing risks of such plant invasions in Sri Lanka has not been undertaken due to several underlying reasons including the long-lasting data gap, technical, technological, and financial issues. In addition, the literature relevant to SDM applications in the country is substantially poor, scattered, and unpublished. Therefore, in this article, we explore SDM applications relevant to invasive plants in Sri Lanka with implications similar to other countries in the tropics. We examine the challenges and potentials for utilization of SDM technology in conservation planning in Sri Lanka and discuss data gap as a major obstacle. We also identify the potential SDM interventions relevant to invasive plants control and management in Sri Lanka and recommend conservation planners to prioritize them and apply for the strategic management of invasive plants in Sri Lanka. Finally, we suggest some recommendations to make an enabling environment in relevant institutions for the utilization of SDM technology in ecosystem management planning in Sri Lanka.
Effect of statin treatment on circulating malondialdehyde concentrations: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zinellu Angelo , Paliogiannis Panagiotis , Usai Maria Franca , Carru Ciriaco , Mangoni Arduino A.
Published: July 2019

Background:

The effect of statins on oxidative stress markers, such as malondialdehyde (MDA), is still a matter of debate. We sought to address this issue by conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis of published data on the effect of statin treatment on systemic MDA concentrations.

Methods:

A literature search was conducted on MEDLINE/ PubMed, ISI Web of Sciences and Scopus. Data were pooled using a random-effects model.

Results:

A total of 35 studies assessing MDA concentrations before and after statin treatment in 1512 participants (mean age 53.6 years, 48.7% males) were identified. Extreme between-study heterogeneity was observed (I2 = 96.0%, p < 0.001). Pooled standardized mean difference (SMD) showed a significant reduction in plasma MDA concentrations after treatment (SMD = −1.47 µmol/l, 95% confidence interval = −1.89 to −1.05 μmol/l; p < 0.001). Similarly, a subgroup analysis of 10 studies that also included a placebo group showed a significant reduction in plasma MDA concentrations with statins (−1.03 μmol/l, 95% confidence interval = −1.52 to −0.29 μmol/l; p = 0.036).

Conclusions:

This systematic review and meta-analysis showed that statin treatment significantly reduces systemic MDA concentrations. However, the results should be interpreted with caution because of extreme between-study heterogeneity, which warrants further intervention studies.
High Rate of Recurrent Meniscal Tear and Lateral Compartment Osteoarthritis in Patients Treated for Symptomatic Lateral Discoid Meniscus: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Sabbag Orlando D. , Hevesi Mario , Sanders Thomas L. , Camp Christopher L. , Dahm Diane L. , Levy Bruce A. , Stuart Michael J. , Krych Aaron J.
Published: July 2019

Background:

Little is known about the natural history of a surgically treated symptomatic lateral discoid meniscus. The goals of this study were to describe the rate and factors associated with recurrent lateral meniscal tears and progression to symptomatic lateral compartment osteoarthritis (OA) in patients surgically treated for a symptomatic lateral discoid meniscus.

Hypothesis:

Patients with surgically treated lateral discoid meniscus have a high incidence of meniscal retear and progression to lateral compartment OA.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

A large geographic database was reviewed to identify and confirm patients presenting with symptomatic lateral discoid meniscus between 1998 and 2015. Charts were reviewed to document treatment and outcomes at a minimum clinical follow-up of 2 years.

Results:

A total of 59 patients (27 females, 32 males) with a mean age of 25.7 years (range, 4.0-66.0 years) underwent surgical management of a discoid lateral meniscus and were evaluated for a mean of 5.6 years (range, 2.0-23.7 years). Of these, 48 (82%) patients underwent partial lateral meniscectomy, with 24 patients undergoing concurrent saucerization. Eleven (18%) underwent meniscal repair. Tear-free survival following surgery was 41% at 8 years. Progression to symptomatic lateral compartment OA was 50% at 8 years. Young age (hazard ratio, 0.96; 95% CI, 0.93-0.99; P = .01) and open growth plates (hazard ratio, 3.19; 95% CI, 1.15-8.88; P = .03) were associated with increased incidence of postoperative retear. Older age at diagnosis and body mass index ≥30 kg/m2 were associated with increased risk of progression to lateral compartment OA on final radiographs.

Conclusion:

Patients with a surgically treated lateral discoid meniscal tear had a high rate of recurrent meniscal tear (59% at 8 years). Approximately 50% of surgically treated patients developed symptomatic lateral compartment OA at 8 years from diagnosis.
Advancing International Research on Long-Term Care: Using Adaptive Leadership to Build Consensus on International Measurement Priorities and Common Data Elements
Authors: Lepore Michael , Corazzini Kirsten
Published: July 2019

International research on long-term care (LTC) can valuably inform LTC policy and practice, but limited transnational collection of data on key LTC issues restricts the contributions of international LTC research. This special collection of Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine helps close the gap between the status quo and the potential for international LTC research by cultivating a transnational common ground of internationally prioritized measurement concepts and sowing the seeds of international LTC common data elements. The articles in this special collection address both adaptive and technical challenges to international LTC measurement, build on and complement existing LTC measurement systems, and provide diverse international perspectives on the measurement of LTC across four overarching domains: LTC contexts, workforce and staffing, person-centered care, and care outcomes. From large transnational teams of scholars specifying the meanings of central LTC concepts, to smaller subnational research teams testing new measures of person-centered care across diverse local LTC settings, contributors spark new insights and point in new directions for a LTC measurement infrastructure supportive of person-centered care and lifelong thriving.
Forms of self-organization: Urban complexity and planning implications
Authors: Moroni Stefano , Rauws Ward , Cozzolino Stefano
Published: July 2019

The implications of self-organizing phenomena for planning strategies and interventions are a relatively new topic of research that is gaining increasing traction with urban planners and the emerging literature. The problem is that the concept of self-organization is at present applied in a variety of different ways in the contemporary planning debate, a fact that has generated misunderstandings, dubious definitions, and questionable practical suggestions. The aim of this article is to (1) unravel this complex issue by differentiating urban phenomena that are usually all labeled as self-organizing; (2) identify which of them is the most challenging for planning theory and practice, and (3) discuss how planning can productively relate to this form of self-organization.
A genome-wide scan of cleft lip triads identifies parent-of-origin interaction effects between ANK3 and maternal smoking, and between ARHGEF10 and alcohol consumption
Authors: Haaland Øystein Ariansen , Romanowska Julia , Gjerdevik Miriam , Lie Rolv Terje , Gjessing Håkon Kristian , Jugessur Astanand
Published: July 2019

Background: Although both genetic and environmental factors have been reported to influence the risk of isolated cleft lip with or without cleft palate (CL/P), the exact mechanisms behind CL/P are still largely unaccounted for. We recently developed new methods to identify parent-of-origin (PoO) interactions with environmental exposures (PoOxE) and now apply them to data from a genome-wide association study (GWAS) of families with children born with isolated CL/P.

Methods: Genotypes from 1594 complete triads and 314 dyads (1908 nuclear families in total) with CL/P were available for the current analyses. Of these families, 1024 were Asian, 825 were European and 59 had other ancestries. After quality control, 341,191 SNPs remained from the original 569,244. The exposures were maternal cigarette smoking, use of alcohol, and use of vitamin supplements in the periconceptional period. Our new methodology detects if PoO effects are different across environmental strata and is implemented in the R-package Haplin.

Results: Among Europeans, there was evidence of a PoOxSmoke effect for ANK3 with three SNPs (rs3793861, q=0.20, p=2.6e-6; rs7087489, q=0.20, p=3.1e-6; rs4310561, q=0.67, p=4.0e-5) and a PoOxAlcohol effect for ARHGEF10 with two SNPs (rs2294035, q=0.32, p=2.9e-6; rs4876274, q=0.76, p=1.3e-5).

Conclusion: Our results indicate that the detected PoOxE effects have a plausible biological basis, and thus warrant replication in other independent cleft samples. Our demonstration of the feasibility of identifying complex interactions between relevant environmental exposures and PoO effects offers new avenues for future research aimed at unravelling the complex etiology of cleft lip defects.
Improved Results on Adaptive Control Approach for Projective Synchronization of Neural Networks with Time-Varying Delay
Authors: Abdurahman Abdujelil , Sader Malika , Jiang Haijun
Published: July 2019

Compared to other types of synchronization such as complete synchronization and lag synchronization, there is a unique advantage in projective synchronization since it can greatly improve the security of communication. In this paper, the projective synchronization problem of a class of chaotic neural networks with time-varying delay is investigated via designing a novel adaptive controller. Some simple and useful criteria are derived by employing Lyapunov functional method and Lagrange mean value theorem. Finally, an example and its numerical simulations are given to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed control schemes. It is worth to mention that the designed controller in this paper dos not require any knowledge about the activation functions, which can be seen the main novelty of the paper.
Prescribing a heat flux coming from a wave equation
Authors: Ikehata Masaru
Published: July 2019

What happens when one prescribes a heat flux which is proportional to the Neumann data of a solution of the wave equation in the whole space on the surface of a heat conductive body?
It is shown that there is a difference in the asymptotic behavior of the indicator function in the most recent version of the time domain enclosure method, which aims at extracting information about an unknown cavity embedded in the body.
Auflehnung und Vermittlung. Petru Dumitrius Essay Die Transmoderne. Zur Situation des Romans (1965)
Authors: Bauer Matthias
Published: July 2019

This paper aims to reveal the relevance of a so far neclected essay, written by Petru Dumitriu in German and originally published in 1965. This essay discussed the situation of the novel and argue against some shortcomings in contemporary conceptions of literature.
Heimat und fragile Werte. Lavinia Braniştes Null Komma Irgendwas
Authors: Sadikou Nadjib
Published: July 2019

Using the example of Lavinia Branişte’s novel Null Komma Irgendwas, the present article will explore the value of intercultural literature through a specific poetry. I will analyze with a close reading how questions of values as well as questions of apprehension of’ home’ are presented through a specific narrativ. I will draw paralells to Gottfried Keller´s Die drei gerechten Kammmacherandto Friedrich Nietzsche’s poem Vereinsamt.
Congenital Pseudohypoparathyroidism – A Late Diagnosis
Authors: Ilina Andreea Ruxandra , Gorun Andra Elena , Badea Camelia Georgeta , Băicuș Cristian Răsvan
Published: July 2019

The purpose of this paper is to present a case of congenital pseudohypoparathyroidism, late diagnosed in a 22-year-old patient.

The patient’s history revealed hypocalcaemia, diagnosed at birth and persistent despite the treatment with calcium. At 8 years old, the patient is diagnosed with epilepsy and receives treatment with Levetiracetam and Oxcarbazepine; at 12 years old she is diagnosed with dilatative cardiomyopathy and receives treatment with Spironolactone and Glycosides. At 22 years old, she visits our Internal Medicine Department with the suspicion of polymyositis and psoriasis. Clinical examination shows armonic short stature, fourth finger hypoplasia, laboratory findings show severe hypocalcaemia, the hand X-ray - third and fourth metacarpal hypoplasia, immunological tests were negative. All data leads to the diagnosis of congenital disease, and given the history of the patient and the evolution of the clinical manifestations we presume hypoparathyroidism or pseudohypoparathyroidism, therefore PTH is dosed – with normal values, and the diagnosis of congenital pseudohypoparathyroidism is established. The patient was referred to endocrinology, where genetic tests were performed to confirm the diagnosis.

In conclusion, in the absence of multiple pathology integration into a single disease, the diagnosis of the genetic disease is delayed. Therefore, it is important to have a comprehensive approach and collaboration between different specialties to establish the correct diagnosis.
Distribution of Mineral Nitrogen in Soil in Relation to Risk of Nitrate Leaching in Farms with Irrigated Vegetables and Early Potatoes
Authors: Haberle Jan , Svoboda Pavel , Šimon Tomáš , Kurešová Gabriela , Henzlová Barbora , Klír Jan
Published: July 2019

Vegetable production may be the source of excessive residual nitrate that is prone to leaching to waters. To ascertain the risk of nitrate leaching in water collection area, the content of soil mineral nitrogen (Nmin = N-NO3
− + N-NH4
+) down to 120 cm depth was monitored in the years 2013–2016 on vegetable farms along lower Jizera river (in the Czech Republic). The risk of nitrate leaching below 30, 60, 90 and 120 cm during winter period was simulated with a simple model. The depths represent the limits of effective root depth and N depletion of groups of vegetables and field crops. The average autumn mineral nitrogen content in the fields, during experimental years, ranged from 101 kg to 134 kg N·ha−1 in the 0–120 cm soil layer, 85 to 92% of which was in the form of nitrate. The calculated leaching of nitrate from the topsoil (0–30 cm) and shallow subsoil (0–60 cm) ranged from 27 to 41%, and from 7 to 14% of autumn content, respectively. The risk of leaching below 60 cm and 90 cm was near to none during the experimental years due to the exceptionally low precipitation. High nitrate content in subsoil layers below 60 cm constitutes risk of leaching and water pollution due to shallow root systems of many vegetables and potatoes in seasons with normal weather and higher water percolation.
A Clinical Trial of the Intradermal TLR2 Agonist CADI-05 for BCG Recurrent and Unresponsive Non-Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer
Authors: O’Donnell Michael A. , Singh Sharwan , Sood Rajeev , Amlani Jitendra , Krishnamoorthy H. , Shukla Ketan , Mohanty Nayan , Bhatia Sushil , Chakraborty Bhaswat , Desai Nirav , Modi Rajiv , Shukla Chandreshwar , Vachhani Kapil , Patel Rashmi , Kundu Anup , Khamar Bakulesh
Published: July 2019

Background:

CADI-05, a TLR-2 agonist, induces Th1 immune response following intradermal administration and has been found useful in management of lung cancer and melanoma.

Objective:

To evaluate CADI-05 in patients with BCG recurrent and unresponsive Non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) for 15-months recurrence free survival (RFS) rate.

Methods:

In BCG unresponsive (BU) or recurrent (BR) NMIBC, CADI-05 was administered intradermally every two weeks for 3 months followed by every month for 3 months and subsequently every 2 months for 6 months following transurethral resection (TUR) in a single arm study (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT00694798). Cystoscopy, cytology, and sonography were performed for the presence/recurrence of NMIBC at 3, 6, 9, 12, 15 months and beyond and confirmed by biopsy. Evaluation of preoperative biopsy for Desmocollin-3 (DSC3) expression and tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) was optional.

Results:

Twenty patients with NMIBC received intradermal CADI-05. RFS at 15 and 30 months was 35% (7/20) patients. The median RFS was also better for BU compared to BR group (HR, 0.329; 95% CI, 0.071 to 1.532). DSC3 expression was present in 68.8% (11/16) patients. TIL and RFS beyond 30 months were seen 2.3 times and 2.8 times more often in DSC3 expressing NMIBC respectively. No grade IV or V adverse events occurred. Local site reactions were the most common adverse event.

Conclusion:

Intradermal CADI-05 following TUR is associated with 35% RFS at 30 months.
Un nuevo capítulo en la tutela del derecho a la protección de datos personales: los datos de contenido político
Authors: Pascua Mateo Fabio Antonio
Published: July 2019

El Tribunal Constitucional estima el recurso de amparo interpuesto por el Defensor del Pueblo contra el artículo 58 bis de la Ley Orgánica 5/1985, de 19 de junio, del Régimen Electoral General que permitía a los partidos políticos, en el ejercicio de sus actividades electorales, tratar las opiniones y datos políticos difundidas por los particulares en internet. El fallo se fundamenta en la triple infracción del derecho a la protección de datos de carácter personal, en lo relativo a la categoría especial de los datos de contenido político, que constituye (i) no haber especificado el fin público que justifica la intromisión en el derecho, (ii) no haber establecido las limitaciones de esta habilitación y (iii) no haber regulado las garantías adecuadas para su ejercicio. Como consecuencia, se anula la totalidad del apartado 1 de dicho precepto.
Benign Lymphoepithelial Cyst: An Unusual Cause of Parotid Swelling in Two Immunocompetent Patients
Authors: Thong How Kit , Sabir Husin Athar Primuharsa Putra , Wan Mustaffa Wan Muhaizan
Published: July 2019

BACKGROUND: Lymphoepithelial cysts, which are benign and slow-growing tumours, usually involve the head and neck regions. Benign lymphoepithelial cysts (BLECs) are the most common cause of parotid swelling in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive patients and are less common in immunocompetent patients.
CASE PRESENTATION: Here, we present two cases of immunocompetent patients with long-standing, progressively enlarging parotid swelling. Postoperative histopathological examination of these patients revealed features of BLEC.
CONCLUSION: Wide surgical excision is the gold standard for treatment and recurrences is rare. These cases are of particular interest because of the rarity of BLEC in HIV-negative patients and highlight an important differential diagnosis of parotid swelling.
Comparison of IAGOS in-situ water vapour measurements and ECMWF ERA-Interim Reanalysis data
Authors: Reutter Philipp , Neis Patrick , Rohs Susanne , Sauvage Bastien
Published: July 2019

Abstract. Cirrus clouds and their potential formation regions, so-called ice-supersaturated regions (ISSRs) occur frequently in the tropopause region. It is assumed that ISSRs and cirrus clouds can change the tropopause structure by diabatic processes, driven by latent heating due to phase transition and interaction with radiation. For many research questions a three-dimensional picture including a sufficient temporal resolution of the water vapour fields in the tropopause region is required. This requirement is fulfilled nowadays by reanalysis products such as the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) ERA-Interim reanalysis. However, for a meaningful investigation of water vapour in the tropopause region a comparison of the reanalysis data with measurement is advisable, since it is difficult to measure water vapour and to assimilate meaningful measurements into reanalysis products. Here, we present an intercomparison of high-resolution in-situ measurements aboard passenger aircraft within the European Research Infrastructure IAGOS (In-service Aircraft for a Global Observing System; http://www.iagos.org) with ERA-Interim. Temperature and humidity data over the North Atlantic from 2000 to 2010 are compared relative to the dynamical tropopause. The comparison of the temperature shows a good agreement between measurement and ERA-Interim. While ERA-Interim can reproduce the main features of the water vapour measurements of IAGOS, the variability of the data is underestimated by the reanalysis data. The combination of temperature and water vapour leads to the relative humidity with respect to ice (RHi). Here ERA-Interim deviates from the measurements concerning values of larger than RHi=100 %, both in number and strength of supersaturation. The comparison of ISSR pathlengths shows distinct differences, which can be traced back to the spatial resolution of both data sets. IAGOS shows significantly more smaller ISSRs compared to ERA-Interim. A good agreement begins only at pathlengths in the order of the ERA-Interim spatial resolution and larger.
A geometry-dependent surface Lambertian-equivalent reflectivity product for UV–Vis retrievals – Part 1: Evaluation over land surfaces using measurements from OMI at 466 nm
Authors: Qin Wenhan , Fasnacht Zachary , Haffner David , Vasilkov Alexander , Joiner Joanna , Krotkov Nickolay , Fisher Bradford , Spurr Robert
Published: July 2019

Abstract. The anisotropy of the Earth's surface reflection has implications for satellite-based retrieval algorithms
that utilize climatological surface reflectivity databases that do not depend upon the observation geometry.
This is the case for most of the current ultraviolet and visible (UV–Vis) cloud, aerosol, and trace-gas algorithms.
The illumination–observation dependence of surface reflection is described by the bidirectional reflectance distribution function (BRDF).
To account for the BRDF effect, we use the concept of
geometry-dependent surface Lambertian-equivalent reflectivity (GLER),
which is derived from the top-of-atmosphere (TOA) radiance computed with Rayleigh scattering and surface BRDF for the exact geometry of a satellite-based pixel.
We present details on the implementation of land and water surface BRDF models, and
we evaluate our GLER product over land surfaces using observed
Sun-normalized radiances at 466 nm.
The input surface BRDF parameters for computing TOA radiance
are derived from Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) satellite observations.
The observed TOA radiance for comparison is from the Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI).
The comparison shows good agreement between observed and calculated OMI
reflectivity in 2006 in typical geographical
regions, with correlation coefficients greater than 0.8 for some regions.
Seasonal variations of clear-sky OMI
reflectivity (i.e., with minimum clouds and aerosols)
closely follow those computed using MODIS-derived GLER over land.
GLER also captures the cross-track dependence of OMI-derived LER,
though the latter is
slightly higher than the former
presumably owing to residual cloud and aerosol (nonabsorbing) contamination,
particularly over dark surfaces (heavily vegetated regions such as mixed forest, croplands, and grasslands).
Calibration differences between OMI and MODIS may also be responsible for some of this bias.
The standard OMI climatological surface reflectivity database
predicts higher radiances than GLER and OMI observations with different seasonal variation
over most regions and does not have any angular-dependent variation.
Overall, our evaluation demonstrates that the GLER product
adequately accounts for surface BRDF effects while at the same time simplifying the surface
BRDF implementation within the existing
OMI retrieval infrastructure; use of our GLER product requires changes
only to the input surface reflectivity database.
The Met Office Weather Game: investigating how different methods for presenting probabilistic weather forecasts influence decision-making
Authors: Stephens Elisabeth M. , Spiegelhalter David J. , Mylne Ken , Harrison Mark
Published: July 2019

Abstract. To inform the way probabilistic forecasts would be displayed on their
website, the UK Met Office ran an online game as a mass participation
experiment to highlight the best methods of communicating uncertainty in
rainfall and temperature forecasts, and to widen public engagement in
uncertainty in weather forecasting. The game used a hypothetical “ice-cream
seller” scenario and a randomized structure to test decision-making ability using different methods
of representing uncertainty and to enable participants to experience being
“lucky” or “unlucky” when the most likely forecast scenario did not
occur. Data were collected on participant age, gender, educational
attainment, and previous experience
of environmental modelling. The large number of participants (n>8000)
that played the game has led to the collation of a unique large dataset with
which to compare the impact on the decision-making ability of different
weather forecast presentation formats. This analysis demonstrates that within
the game the provision of information regarding forecast uncertainty greatly
improved decision-making ability and did not cause confusion in situations
where providing the uncertainty added no further information.
The Spatial Relationship between Land Surface Temperature and Land Use/Cover Types in Sapporo City, Japan
Authors: Wang Ruci , Murayama Yuji
Published: July 2019

Abstract. Land surface temperature (LST) has received a significant attention for urban health and sustainable development. In recent years, with the rapid urbanization and industrialization, urban heat island phenomenon has prevailed in many cities in developed countries and caused excessive energy consumption, and climatic and environmental deterioration. It is expected that to optimize the composition of land use/cover distribution can reduce the urban heat island phenomenon. Therefore, monitoring the spatial changes and analysing its effects on land surface temperature are crucial for maintaining the healthy urban development in the near future.Based on the above background, this study tried to geographically examine the relationship between the LST and land use/cover changes in Sapporo which is the fifth largest city and a gateway city on the northern island in Japan. We investigated the LST in each land use/cover category from 1985 to 2015 by using Landsat data. The results show that: (1)the land use/cover types and spatial distribution have a great influence on the formation of the LST; (2) the expansion of built-up area is the most significant factor affecting urban heat island during the past 30 years; and (3) the green space and water area help cool the urbanized area. By revealing a spatial relationship between the land use/cover distribution and the LST, this analysis could open an avenue to scientific research on future LST simulation and scenario based on land use/cover changes.Our research goal does not only contribute to the urban health and sustainable development but also provide an important insight into the consequence of the strong city competence.
Measuring compound flood potential from river discharge and storm surge extremes at the global scale and its implications for flood hazard
Authors: Couasnon Anaïs , Eilander Dirk , Muis Sanne , Veldkamp Ted I. E. , Haigh Ivan D. , Wahl Thomas , Winsemius Hessel , Ward Philip J.
Published: July 2019

Abstract. The interaction between physical drivers from oceanographic, hydrological, and meteorological processes in coastal areas can result in compound flooding. Compound flood events, like Cyclone Idai and Hurricane Harvey, have revealed the devastating consequences of the co-occurrence of coastal and river floods. A number of studies have recently investigated the likelihood of compound flooding at the continental scale based on simulated variables of flood drivers such as storm surge, precipitation, and river discharges. At the global scale, this has only been performed based on observations, thereby excluding a large extent of the global coastline. The purpose of this study is to fill this gap and identify potential hotspots of compound flooding from river discharge and storm surge extremes in river mouths globally. To do so, we use daily time-series of river discharge and storm surge from state-of-the-art global models driven with consistent meteorological forcing from reanalysis datasets. We measure the compound flood potential by analysing both variables with respect to their timing, joint statistical dependence, and joint return period. We find many hotspot regions of compound flooding that could not be identified in previous global studies based on observations alone, such as: Madagascar, Northern Morocco, Vietnam, and Taiwan. We report possible causal mechanisms for the observed spatial patterns based on existing literature. Finally, we provide preliminary insights on the implications of the bivariate dependence behaviour on the flood hazard characterisation using Madagascar as a case study. Our global and local analyses show that the dependence structure between flood drivers can be complex and can significantly impact the joint probability of discharge and storm surge extremes. These emphasise the need to refine global flood risk assessments and emergency planning to account for these potential interactions.
Nanoscale Insights into Photovoltaic Hysteresis in Triple‐Cation Mixed‐Halide Perovskite: Resolving the Role of Polarization and Ionic Migration
Authors: Xia Guozhan , Huang Boyuan , Zhang Ying , Zhao Xingyu , Wang Chen , Jia Chunmei , Zhao Jinjin , Chen Weiqiu , Li Jiangyu
Published: July 2019

Triple‐cation mixed‐halide perovskites of composition Csx(FAyMA1−y)1−xPb(IzBr1−z)3 (CsFAMA) have been reported to possess excellent photovoltaic efficiency with minimal hysteresis; in this work, nanoscale insight is shed into the roles of illumination‐induced polarization and ionic migration in photovoltaic hysteresis. By examining the concurrent evolution of ionic distribution and spontaneous polarization of CsFAMA under light illumination using dynamic‐strain‐based scanning probe microscopy, strong linear piezoelectricity arising from photoenhanced polarization is observed, while ionic migration is found to be not significantly increased by lightening. Nanoscale photocurrents are mapped under a series of biases using conductive atomic force microscopy, revealing negligible difference between forward and backward scans, and local IV curves reconstructed from principal component analysis show minimal hysteresis of just 1%. These observations at the nanoscale are confirmed in a macroscopic perovskite solar cell made of CsFAMA, exhibiting a high efficiency of 20.11% and with hysteresis index as small as 3%. Ionic migration, polarization, and photocurrent hysteresis are thus directly correlated at the nanoscale, and photoenhanced polarization in triple‐cation mixed‐halide perovskites is established, which does not contribute to the photovoltaic hysteresis.
Maternal risk factors for congenital heart defects in infants with Down syndrome from Western Mexico
Authors: Corona‐Rivera Jorge Román , Nieto‐García Rafael , Gutiérrez‐Chávez Andrea S. , Bobadilla‐Morales Lucina , Rios‐Flores Izabel M. , Corona‐Rivera Alfredo , Fabián‐Morales Gerardo E. , Zavala‐Cortés Ignacio , Lugo‐Iglesias Cynthia , Peña‐Padilla Christian
Published: July 2019

Atrioventricular septal defects (AVSDs) have been identified as intriguingly infrequent among Hispanics with Down syndrome (DS) born in the United States. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of possible maternal risk factors in the presence of congenital heart defects (CHDs) in Mexican infants with DS. A total of 231 live birth infants born with DS during 2009–2018 at the “Dr. Juan I. Menchaca” Civil Hospital of Guadalajara (Guadalajara, Mexico) were ascertained in a case–control study. Patients with DS with any major CHD were included as cases and those without major CHD as controls. Potential risk factors were analyzed using logistic regression. Of eligible infants with DS, 100 (43.3%) had ≥1 major CHDs (cases) and were compared with a control group of 131 infants (56.7%) with DS without CHDs. Prevalent CHDs were ostium secundum atrial septal defects (ASDs) (46.9%), ventricular septal defects (27.3%), and AVSDs (14%). Lack of folic acid supplementation before pregnancy had a significant risk for CHDs in infants with DS (adjusted odds ratio [aORs] = 2.9 (95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 1.0–8.6) and in the analysis by subtype of CHDs, also, for the occurrence of ASDs (aOR = 11.5, 95% CI: 1.4–94.4). Almost half of the infants with DS in our sample had CHDs, being ASD the commonest subtype and AVSD the rarest. Our ethnic background alone or in concomitance with observed nutritional disadvantages seems to contribute differences in CHD subtype rates in our DS patients.
Perturbation of Transmission Matrices in Nonlinear Random Media
Authors: Fleming Adam , Conti Claudio , Di Falco Andrea
Published: July 2019

Random media with tailored optical properties are attracting burgeoning interest for applications in imaging, biophysics, energy, nanomedicine, spectroscopy, cryptography, and telecommunications. A key paradigm for devices based on this class of materials is the transmission matrix, the tensorial link between the input and the output signals, that describes in full their optical behavior. The transmission matrix has specific statistical properties, such as the existence of lossless channels, that can be used to transmit information, and are determined by the disorder distribution. In nonlinear materials, these channels may be modulated and the transmission matrix tuned accordingly. Here, the direct measurement of the nonlinear transmission matrix of complex materials is reported, exploiting the strong optothermal nonlinearity of scattering silica aerogel (SA). It is shown that the dephasing effects due to nonlinearity are both controllable and reversible, opening the road to applications based on the nonlinear response of random media.
A Recyclable bi‐functional Luminescent Zinc (II) metal–organic framework as highly selective and sensitive sensing probe for nitroaromatic explosives and Fe3+ ions
Authors: Gao Enjun , Liu Dongsheng , Xing Jialing , Feng Yunhui , Su Junqi , Liu Jiaxing , Zhao Hongwei , Wang Ning , Jia Zhili , Zhang Xiaoyin , Fedin Vladimir P. , Zhu Mingchang
Published: July 2019

By introducing carboxyl tag to the aromatic ligands system and borrowing the organic template open framework idea, a stable fluorescent Zn metal–organic framework was successfully prepared through a rigid ligand H6L (3,5‐bis‐(3‐carboxyphenoxy)benzoic acid) under hydrothermal conditions. The selectivity and sensitivity of the Zn‐MOF to metal ions and nitro‐aromatic compounds (NACs) were investigated by fluorescence quenching. And the Zn‐MOF showed a high sensibility of nitro‐aromatic compounds (NACs) and Fe3+ ions, especially for 4‐(4‐nitropheny lazo) resorcinol (NPLR). More importantly, the detection limit of the Zn‐MOF for detecting NPLR solution was found to be 1.71 ppb. Moreover, this sensor is remarkable recyclable and is promisingly applied for rapid, on‐site and sensing of explosive residuals.
Wie viele Moleküle enthält ein Mol?
Authors: Stosch Rainer , Rienitz Olaf , Pramann Axel , Güttler Bernd
Published: July 2019

Nach der Revision des Internationalen Einheitensystems (SI) basiert das Mol (die SI‐Einheit der Stoffmenge) allein auf einer exakt festgelegten Anzahl spezifizierter Teilchen, die dem Zahlenwert der Avogadro‐Konstante NA entspricht. Experimente zur praktischen Realisierung der Einheit Mol auf höchstem Niveau werden unabhängig von ihrer Definition in einer sogenannten „mise en pratique“ beschrieben. Die Rückführung einer chemischen Messgröße auf die Einheit Mol erfordert wie bisher ein Messverfahren, mit dem ein Analyt identifiziert und quantifiziert werden kann. Die Neudefinition hat keinerlei Auswirkungen auf die Resultate, die mit Präzisionsmethoden oder anderen für die Rückführung chemischer Messgrößen verwendeten Messverfahren gemessen werden. Auswirkungen auf praktische Arbeiten, z. B. chemisch‐analytische Messungen in einem Routinelabor, sind somit nicht zu befürchten.
A New Type of Crystal: Dislocation‐Helix Array of Cholic Acid
Authors: Wang Xudong , Lu Yan
Published: July 2019

All crystals reported to date have been 3D lattice arrays of atoms, ions, or molecules. Here, however, it is reported that a prismatic crystal of cholic acid (CA) is a dislocation‐helix array composed of 1D dislocation helices with a pitch of 13.4 µm. In the cross‐section of the array, there are two vectors, with lengths of 51.1 and 31.5 Å, which correspond to the inter‐dislocation‐helix distances. In the array, the dislocation helices, whose interhelix distances are the vectors, diffract the incident X‐ray beam and produce diffracted beams that fall on the 2D detector to form diffraction spots, which compose a 2D lattice in all the single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction patterns of the prismatic crystal of CA. More interestingly, along the helices in the array, the CA molecules, whose intermolecular distance is the pitch of the helix, diffract visible light; and, in a laser confocal scanning microscopy image of the crystal, one right‐handed double‐stranded diffraction helix (which is caused by visible‐light diffraction) is visible around the center line of the prismatic crystal. From what is known, this is the first report of visible‐light diffraction by a crystal.
Cancer and heart disease: associations and relations
Authors: de Boer Rudolf A. , Meijers Wouter C. , van der Meer Peter , van Veldhuisen Dirk J.
Published: July 2019

Emerging evidence supports that cancer incidence is increased in patients with cardiovascular (CV) disease and heart failure (HF), and patients with HF frequently die from cancer. Recently, data have been generated showing that circulating factors in relation to HF promote tumour growth and development in murine models, providing proof that a causal relationship exists between both diseases. Several common pathophysiological mechanisms linking HF to cancer exist, and include inflammation, neuro‐hormonal activation, oxidative stress and a dysfunctional immune system. These shared mechanisms, in combination with risk factors, in concert may explain why patients with HF are prone to develop cancer. Investigating the new insights linking HF with cancer is rapidly becoming an exciting new field of research, and we herein review the most recent data. Besides insights in mechanisms, we call for clinical awareness, that is essential to optimize treatment strategies of patients having developed cancer with a history of HF. Finally, ongoing and future trials should strive for comprehensive phenotyping of both CV and cancer end points, to allow optimal usefulness of data, and to better describe and understand common characteristics of these two lethal diseases.
Modeling of water–energy‐environment nexus by water evaluation and planning and long‐range energy alternative planning models: A case study
Authors: Javadifard Nazanin , Khadivi Samira , Motahari Saeed , Farahani Maryam
Published: July 2019

The present study, as the first study of this type in Iran, was carried out with the aim of modeling Water–Energy‐Environment nexus of Jajrood River in northern Iran. The water evaluation and planning and long‐range energy alternative planning software were used as practical tools for water and energy modeling. To this end, after collecting the required input data on water and power supply and demand in Jajrood Basin, with regard to the population increase rate, three scenarios were simulated. By linking the data of the two software, the overlap between supply and demand in the nexus between water and energy, and greenhouse gas emissions were compared. According to the results, “reducing water consumption” (first scenario) and “rising water prices” (second scenario) were the best scenarios for policy‐making in the fields of water, energy, and environmental conservation in the next 20 years. These two scenarios will have four benefits of reducing water consumption (32.9 and 16.52%, respectively, under the first and second scenarios), reducing energy consumption (32 and 14.4%, respectively, under the first and second scenarios), reducing power generation (1.87 and 81.8%, respectively, under the first and second scenarios), and reducing greenhouse gas emissions (25 and 11%, respectively, under the first and second scenarios).
Any Size for a Dollar: The Effect of Any‐Size‐Same‐Price Versus Standard Pricing on Beverage Size Choices
Authors: Haws Kelly L. , Liu Peggy J. , Dallas Steven K. , Cawley John , Roberto Christina A.
Published: July 2019

Overconsumption of sugary drinks is linked with obesity. These beverages have been the target of recent public health policies, and, simultaneously, some firms have altered their pricing of such beverages, including charging the same price for all beverage sizes (“any‐size‐same‐price” pricing). We compare the effect of any‐size‐same‐price pricing versus standard pricing on soft drink beverage size choices and further explore the effect of this firm lever under different health‐related policy situations. Overall, we show that any‐size‐same‐price pricing increases consumers’ focus on the value of getting a good financial deal and thereby increases beverage size selections. Further, the allure of any‐size‐same‐price pricing prevents calorie postings from successfully reducing choice of larger sizes as occurs under standard pricing. However, a more graphic health intervention can reduce the appeal of larger sizes under any‐size‐same‐price pricing. Finally, the findings are not moderated by diet versus nondiet beverage selections, indicating that consumers do not perceive the value of larger sizes under any‐size‐same‐price pricing to come from getting more calories. We conclude by discussing how this work can improve the design of public health nutrition policies.
Particle accumulation in high‐Prandtl‐number liquid bridges
Authors: Barmak Ilya , Romanò Francesco , Kuhlmann Hendrik C.
Published: July 2019

Particle accumulation in high‐Prandtl‐number (Pr = 68) thermocapillary liquid bridges is studied numerically. Randomly distributed small rigid non‐interacting spherical particles are found to cluster in particle accumulation structures. The accumulation is found to be caused by a finite‐particle‐size effect when the particles move close to the impermeable flow boundaries. The extra drag force experienced by a particle near the boundaries creates a dissipation in the dynamical system describing the particle motion. This causes particles to be attracted to regions in or near Kolmogorov‐Arnold‐Moser tori of the unperturbed flow field.