bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Global map and indicators of food system sustainability
Authors: Béné Christophe , Prager Steven D. , Achicanoy Harold A. E. , Toro Patricia Alvarez , Lamotte Lea , Bonilla Camila , Mapes Brendan R.
Published: November 2019

This paper presents the first global map of food systems sustainability based on a rigorous protocol. The choice of the metric dimensions, as well as the individual indicators included in the metric, were initially identified from a thorough review of the existing literature. A rigorous inclusion/exclusion protocol was then used to refine the list and shorten it to a sub-set of 27 indicators. An aggregate sustainability score was then computed based on those 27 indicators organized into four dimensions: environment, social, food security & nutrition and economic. The paper shows how the availability of data (or lack therefore) results in an unavoidable trade-off between number of indicators and number of countries, and highlights how optimization can be used to present the most robust metric possible given the existence of this trade-offs in the data space. The process results in the computation of a global sustainability map covering 97 countries and 20 indicators. The sustainability scores obtained for each country are made available over the entire range of indicators.
Molecular Dynamics Simulation reveals the mechanism by which the Influenza Cap-dependent Endonuclease acquires resistance against Baloxavir marboxil
Authors: Yoshino Ryunosuke , Yasuo Nobuaki , Sekijima Masakazu
Published: November 2019

Baloxavir marboxil (BXM), an antiviral drug for influenza virus, inhibits RNA replication by binding to RNA replication cap-dependent endonuclease (CEN) of influenza A and B viruses. Although this drug was only approved by the FDA in October 2018, drug resistant viruses have already been detected from clinical trials owing to an I38 mutation of CEN. To investigate the reduction of drug sensitivity by the I38 mutant variants, we performed a molecular dynamics (MD) simulation on the CEN-BXM complex structure to analyze variations in the mode of interaction. Our simulation results suggest that the side chain methyl group of I38 in CEN engages in a CH-pi interaction with the aromatic ring of BXM. This interaction is abolished in various I38 mutant variants. Moreover, MD simulation on various mutation models and binding free energy prediction by MM/GBSA method suggest that the I38 mutation precludes any interaction with the aromatic ring of BXA and thereby reduces BXA sensitivity.
Quantitative LC-MS/MS method for nivolumab in human serum using IgG purification and immobilized tryptic digestion
Authors: Abe Kazuki , Shibata Kaito , Naito Takafumi , Karayama Masato , Hamada Etsuko , Maekawa Masato , Yamada Yasuhide , Suda Takafumi , Kawakami Junichi
Published: November 2019

A simple and rapid LC-MS/MS method for quantification of nivolumab in human serum using immobilized trypsin coupled to IgG purification.
Response of intestinal signaling communication between the nucleus and peroxisome to nanopolystyrene at a predicted environmental concentration
Authors: Shao Huimin , Kong Yan , Wang Dayong
Published: November 2019

Our results suggest the crucial function of intestinal canonical Wnt/β-catenin-mediated nucleus–peroxisome signaling communication in response to nanopolystyrene exposure.
Clustering micropollutants based on initial biotransformations for improved prediction of micropollutant removal during conventional activated sludge treatment
Authors: Wang Yuxin , Fenner Kathrin , Helbling Damian E.
Published: November 2019

The lack of fundamental insights on the fate of micropollutants during activated sludge treatment presents one of the biggest challenges in optimizing their removal in wastewater treatment plants.
Controllable 3D plasmonic nanostructures for high-quantum-efficiency UV photodetectors based on 2D and 0D materials
Authors: Li Ming-Yu , Yu Muni , Jiang Shenglin , Liu Sisi , Liu Hezhuang , Xu Hao , Su Dong , Zhang Guangzu , Chen Yuntian , Wu Jiang
Published: November 2019

3D Au nanostructure/anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) matrix plasmonic architectures with strong plasmonic coupling for spatial light utilization are reported.
Optical properties of nanocrystal films: blue shifted transitions as signature of strong coupling
Authors: Skibinsky-Gitlin Erik S. , Rodríguez-Bolívar Salvador , Califano Marco , Gómez-Campos Francisco M.
Published: November 2019

Large blue shifts in the intra-conduction-band transitions and the red shift of the band gap absorption are both the manifestation of strong interdot coupling in the film.
Structural characterization and gas-phase studies of the [Ag10H8(L)6]2+ nanocluster dication
Authors: Ma Howard Z. , McKay Alasdair I. , Mravak Antonija , Scholz Michael S. , White Jonathan M. , Mulder Roger J. , Bieske Evan J. , Bonačić-Koutecký Vlasta , O'Hair Richard A. J.
Published: November 2019

The structure of a large dicationic silver hydride nanocluster was determined by X-ray crystallography. Pathways to the gas-phase liberation of hydrogen have been identified.
Pt2+-Exchanged ZIF-8 nanocube as a solid-state precursor for L10-PtZn intermetallic nanoparticles embedded in a hollow carbon nanocage
Authors: Kwon Taehyun , Lim Sunghyun , Jun Minki , Kang Minjung , Joo Jinwhan , Oh Aram , Baik Hionsuck , Hong Chang Seop , Lee Kwangyeol
Published: November 2019

L10-PtZn intermetallic nanoparticles embedded in hollow, N-doped carbon nanocages were directly synthesized from the solid-state precursor, Pt2+-exchanged ZIF-8 nanocubes.
A 2D covalent organic framework involving strong intramolecular hydrogen bonds for advanced supercapacitors
Authors: Li Tao , Yan Xiaodong , Liu Yong , Zhang Wen-Da , Fu Qiu-Ting , Zhu Haiyan , Li Zaijun , Gu Zhi-Guo
Published: November 2019

A two-dimensional covalent organic framework with abundant intramolecular hydrogen bonds and a benzobisthiazole skeleton shows a superior specific capacitance of 724 F g−1 at 1 A g−1.
Enantioselective synthesis of chiral multicyclic γ-lactones via dynamic kinetic resolution of racemic γ-keto carboxylic acids
Authors: Xiong Zhichao , Tian Jiangyan , Xue Peng , Zhang Xumu , Lv Hui
Published: November 2019

Ru-Catalyzed asymmetric transfer hydrogenation of γ-keto carboxylic acids has been achieved, affording chiral multicyclic γ-lactones in high yields with excellent diastereo- and enantioselectivities.
Identification of exosomal miR-455-5p and miR-1255a as therapeutic targets for breast cancer
Authors: Xin Ying , Wang Xueqiang , Meng Kexin , Ni Chao , Lv Zhenye , Guan Dandan
Published: November 2019

Accumulated evidence has demonstrated exosomes of cancer cells carry microRNAs (miRNAs) to non-malignant cells to induce metastasis. The present study aimed to identify crucial exosomal miRNAs for breast cancer (BC) using microarray data (GSE83669 and GSE50429) from Gene Expression Omnibus database, including exosomal samples from human BC cells (MCF7, MDA-MB-231) and normal mammary epithelial cell line (MCF10, MCF-10A), as well as original cell samples. Differentially expressed miRNAs (DEMs) were identified using EdgeR package, and mRNA targets were predicted using miRWalk2 database. The target genes were overlapped with BC genes from Comparative Toxicogenomics Database (CTD) to construct BC-related interaction network. Potential functions were analyzed by DAVID. The expression of crucial miRNAs and target genes were confirmed in other microarray datasets or TCGA sequencing data. Their associations with survival and other clinical characteristics were validated by Kaplan–Meier plotter and LinkedOmics database. As a result, 9 and 8 DEMs were identified to be shared in two datasets for exosomal and original cells, respectively. Further comparison showed that miR-455-5p was specifically differentially expressed in exosomes, and miR-1255a was commonly expressed in exosomal and original cells samples. miR-455-5p could interact with CDKN1B to influence cell cycle process and miR-1255a could regulate SMAD4 to participate in TGF-β signaling pathway. High expressed miR-455-5p (basal-like) and miR-1255a (overall) were associated with poor overall survival, while the high expression of their target genes was associated with excellent overall, recurrence-free or distant metastasis-free survival. In conclusion, the present study preliminarily indicates that exosomal miR-455-5p and miR-1255a may be novel therapeutic targets for BC.
Frequency bandwidth enhancement using continuous wavelet transform and random noise attenuation by f-xy filtering technique – a case study from Badin oilfield, Indus basin, Pakistan
Authors: Taimur Asad , Akinsunmade Akinniyi , Tomecka-Suchon Sylwia , Mehmood Fahad
Published: November 2019

Routine seismic data processing does not always meet the quantitative interpreters’ expectations especially in areas like Badin, where prospective thin bed B – sand interval is ambiguous throughout the seismic volume. Continuous Wavelet Transform (CWT) provides detailed description of seismic signal in both time and frequency without compromising on window length and a fixed time-frequency resolution over time-frequency spectrum. We present enhancement of seismic data for effective interpretation using the bandwidth extension technique. Implementing bandwidth extension, the dominant frequency increases from 18 Hz to 30 Hz and the frequency content boosted from 40 Hz to 60 Hz. Noise inclusion by the technique was suppressed by F-XY predictive filter and F-XY deconvolution with edge preserve smoothing. Phase and spectral balancing were applied to partial angle stacks to stabilize the phase rotation across the 3D survey, particularly for far offset stack. Frequency was balanced using surface consistent spectrum balancing, and subjected to trace scaling for amplitudes balance and preservation. Results of the techniques yielded unique improvement on the data resolution and subtle information about the thin sand beds were better delineated. Tuning thickness analysis reveals the usefulness of bandwidth extension, with an increase of 30% in the resolving power of thin beds.
Social and philosophical background and legal mechanism of assisted reproductive technologies regulation (by example of surrogate maternity)
Authors: Hrekov Yevhen , Hrekova Maryna , Kabalskyi Roman
Published: November 2019

In many countries of the world, the practice of using assisted reproductive technologies faces a number of legal obstacles, from the introduction of restrictions to their complete prohibition. In most cases, these restrictions are due to public rejection of these methods and procedures for social, psychological and religious reasons. Indeed, these technologies add reissues of assess in galore of women in the society, its functions, problems of relationships with a surrogate mother or an egg donor, emergence and distribution of a surrogate mother's or donor's rights, as well as persons' who are beneficiaries of the results of these technologies. However, a solution of these problems cannot be achieved only by improving the legal mechanisms regulating the use of these technologies. In this situation, the solution is at the junction of the interests of the society (state) and personal interests of persons who need their use, while normative consolidation and enforcement is only a form of consolidating of the achieved balance.
Fatness and thermoregulation of qualified rugby players
Authors: Pontaga Inese , Liepina Jekaterina , Kazoka Dzintra , Umbrasko Silvija
Published: November 2019

A large body size and mass are advantages in rugby. The desire to gain weight can bring players to become overweight or obese. This can worsen their thermoregulation and health risks. The aim was to evaluate anthropometric characteristics and to determine the effect of additional body fat percentage on sweat loss during play-match in male rugby players. Nineteen qualified male rugby players were tested during play-match. The age, height, body mass, body mass index (BMI) and body fat percent of participants were: 29 ± 6 years, 183 ± 7 cm, 96.86 ± 12.88 kg, 29.07 ± 3.90 kg/m2, 20.52 ± 5.64%, respectively. The skin fold thickness measurement was used to assess body fat percent. Body mass loss was detected by weighting. The mean BMI was 26.18 ± 2.37 (kg/m2) and the body fat 15.87 ± 3.97% in backs. Forwards were significantly heavier and had BMI 31.18 ± 3.44 (kg/m2)(p = 0.002) and the body fat 23.91 ± 4.02% (p < 0.001). The mean body mass decrease in the play-match was 1.83 ± 0.84%. The mean sweating intensity was 2.24 ± 1.07 l/h, but individual varied among players in very wide range (1.12–6.16 l/h). Relationships between the body fat percentage and sweating intensity was not determined (p > 0.05). Recommendation is to increase the volume of regular strength training, to correct the diet and liquid consumption.
The specifics in the work of social workers when rendering social services at the person's home
Authors: Raudeliunaite Rita
Published: November 2019

The objective of the study is to highlight the specifics of the work of a social worker when rendering social services at the person's home on the basis of the experience of social workers. Qualitative research strategy was used, including semi-structured interview. The study revealed a wide spectrum of the activities of the social worker when organising the provision of social services at home: the identification and assessment of the need for a service, the planning, provision, coordination and assessment of the assistance or care at the person's home, the involvement of the service recipient in decision-making, the involvement of close relatives of the service recipient, teamwork, cooperation with other institutions, and improvement of skills of the employees. The study revealed the benefit of social services at the person's home to the recipients of the services: living at their homes, they do not feel so lonely, they feel safe, needful, capable of benefiting from the needed assistance. Difficulties, which arise when cooperating with the recipients of social services at home, are the following: people provide false information when identifying the need for a service, mental disorders of the service recipient, dissatisfaction with the rotation of the visiting care workers, complaints regarding the lack of communication. Organisational limitations of bodies providing services are linked to formalism, shortage of the staff, time restrictions for services, lack of transport, unavailability of services due to the limited financial resources of service recipients.
Public-Private Partnership in the Implementation of the Industrial Policy of Russia
Authors: Kasatov A.D.
Published: November 2019

The article views the creation of public-private partnership as an important direction in the activation of the innovative type of the development of the economy of Russia. The need to combine the efforts of the public and private business in solving this problem is connected, firstly, with the economic sanctions of the West and not only financial sanctions but also with the refusal to supply high-tech equipment to Russia and, secondly, even more threatening prospects of the dynamics of the innovative development of the manufacturing sector. That is why the main attention is paid to the impact of public-private partnership on the development of integrated business in the context of the implementation of the strategic task of the innovative way of the Russian economy development. It is shown that public-private partnerships are one of the most common instruments for attracting private investments in infrastructure projects both in Russia and abroad. But the format of public-private partnerships for the implementation of Russia's industrial policy in the field of innovation should be used not only for the infrastructure development but also for the development of Russian industrial enterprises and the implementation of national projects.
Digital Transformation of Enforcement Proceedings: Russian Experience
Authors: Ageeva G.E.
Published: November 2019

In this study, the author considers the main problems of digital modernization concerning enforcement proceedings in the Russian Federation. Generation and further enhancement of the digital space have determined the vector of legal regulation in the implementation of any social processes several years ago. Various aspects of the economic, legal and other spheres of public life were reformed. Changes in various areas of enforcement proceedings occurred in stages, sequentially and in plain consideration with the specific features of legal relationships. However the digital transformation of enforcement proceedings has not yet come to its final stages. Many researchers note the “unavailability” of both legislation and law enforcement procedure for the changes that are taking place as well as to the final establishment of such changes as the basic and fundamental rules of law enforcement. In addition, the existing fragmentary regulation in the process of law enforcement gave rise to many problems. In this article the author attempts to identify the positive and negative experience of digital modernization of Russian law enforcement practice and define suggestions that could improve the process.
Financial Technologies of International Banking Regulations
Authors: Panova G.S.
Published: November 2019

The author considers the problems of banking regulation in the context of globalization. An analysis of relevant issues indicates the need to improve financial technologies for banking regulation. Basel innovations, designed to ensure the stability and uninterrupted operation of the global banking system, have led to the creation of counter-innovations by the banking sector. Basel Accords led to the development of the so-called “regulatory rally”, when increasingly sophisticated methods of regulation gave rise to increasingly inventive ways to protect the gains of the banking business. These ways sometimes became an indirect source of rising risks, and were initially taken as effective protection against these risks. The author analyzes the main advantages and disadvantages of the latest Basel Accords on Banking Supervision (Basel III) and identifies specific directions for its improvement, taking into account current practices of national and international approaches to regulating the activities of credit organizations 10 years after the global financial and banking crisis. The importance of the study is determined by the need to develop financial technologies for international banking regulations, as well as theoretical and methodological approaches that determine the interconnectedness and interdependence of financial markets. It is also important to evaluate the effectiveness of measures to regulate the activities of financial and credit institutions at the national and international levels to develop strategies and tactics for the optimal progressive development of financial markets. The purpose of the study is to develop theoretical and methodological approaches to assessing the impact of international standards on activities of Russian credit organizations.
Some Aspect of Legal Regulation of Special Economic Zones in Russia
Authors: Tarasova Yu.A. , Kozhevnikova S.A. , Bobkova T.S. , Porunova O.G.
Published: November 2019

The authors analyze the Russian and international experience of functioning of territories with special legal status. The multiple advantages of establishing and developing of such territories in the country in the short-term and long term are noted. On the basis of the analysis of the Federal Law “About special economic zones in the Russian Federation” and the other normative legal acts, the advantages and the shortcomings of the legal regulation of the creation, management and closing of the special economic zones are revealed. The factors defining a set of privileges for the foreign investors in various territories with special legal status and also the conditions of the effective work of the special economic zone of industrial and production type are considered. The authors support their analysis of the legislation with the description and comparison of economic indicators of work of two special economic zones of industrial and production type in the Volga Federal District. The authors also consider jurisprudence on the controversial issues arising in the connection with the establishment of special economic zones. The article comes to the end with the consideration of possible prospects of the territories with special legal status transformation.
Modernization of Managing a “Smart City” on the Basis of Digital Platforms
Authors: Pogorelova E.V. , Efimova T.B. , Haitbaev V.A.
Published: November 2019

The main challenges facing modern cities initiate review of approaches to management of city development. Combining of information systems and “smart” equipment used in various spheres of activity is analyzed. It causes digitization of social and economic processes which are not the optimal ones, and management mistakes are transferred to the sphere of digital transformation. In this research it is proposed to consider the development of digital platforms of a “smart city” according to systematic transformation of social and economic processes into the view optimal for management whilst taking into account psychological and cognitive characteristics of city dwellers. This issue may be solved by creating digital platforms of a new class which are based on neural management of knowledge and artificial intellect.
Innovations in the Management of Marketing Activities of the Higher Education System
Authors: Surayeva M.O. , Grigoryants I.A. , Kochetkova N.V. , Evdokimov A.N.
Published: November 2019

Modern educational organization is actually a full member of market relations. Universities now have the right to make money and manage it. On the education market there are many factors that affect the stability of the educational organization. The authors made an attempt to analyze the factors and risks in the education market. Analyzing the set of factors operating in the education market, the authors identify the most dangerous of them, which currently affect the sustainable functioning of universities. It is proposed to solve the problem of sustainable functioning of the University with the use of marketing management as one of the components of management studying market processes.
Methods for Overcoming Psychological Barrier by Adults while Studying Information Technology
Authors: Andreeva V.V. , Makarov A.A. , Makarova T.K.
Published: November 2019

The article considers the problems of teaching information technology to the adult population of Russia in accordance with the strategic direction of the country's development until 2025 - the digital economy, which requires improving the process of teaching information technology (IT), developing new pedagogical technologies and methods focused on modern conditions. Evaluation of developed methods of teaching IT and overcoming the psychological barrier in a large sample of the country's population for a long time shows their replicability and effectiveness.
Gastric mucosal devitalization (GMD): translation to a novel endoscopic metabolic therapy
Authors: Fayad Lea , Oberbach Andreas , Schweitzer Michael , Askin Frederic , Voltaggio Lysandra , Larman Tatianna , Enderle Markus , Hahn Hartmut , Khashab Mouen A. , Kalloo Anthony N. , Kumbhari Vivek
Published: November 2019

Background and study aims The metabolic effects of bariatric surgery may partially result from removal of the gastric mucosa, an often underappreciated endocrine organ. Using argon plasma coagulation (APC), we may be able to selectively devitalize (ablate) the mucosa. The aim of this study was to identify the optimal tissue color that would correspond to selective gastric mucosal devitalization (GMD) using ex-vivo human stomach specimens.

Patients and methods Stomach specimens were obtained at sleeve gastrectomy. Prior to APC application, a submucosal fluid cushion was created. APC was then applied over a 2 × 2-cm area to the fundus and body, aiming for the three indicator colors (white, golden, brown). Pathological analysis was then performed independently and in a blinded fashion by two pathologists to determine the depth of mucosal and submucosal percent thermal injury and mucosal percent cell death.

Results Six patients were enrolled. There was a significant correlation between tissue color and mucosal percent thermal injury. The highest percent mucosal thermal injury was seen with brown (99.6 %, 95 % CI: 98.7, 100), followed by golden (92.5 %, 95 % CI: 85.5, 99.5), and then white (75.2 %, 95 % CI: 58.3, 92.1, P < 0.01). Submucosal thermal injury was seen in 88.9 % of the slides. Greater than minimal submucosal injury (> 10 % depth) was found significantly more with brown tissue color (91.6 %) than golden (75 %) or white (33.3 %, P < 0.05). However, 91.7 % of the entire sample set < 50 % injury.

Conclusion GMD is achievable using APC without thermal injury to muscularis propria. A golden color results in sufficient mucosal injury with only superficial injury to the submucosa.
Comparison of colon adenoma detection rates using cap-assisted and Endocuff-assisted colonoscopy: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Marsano Joseph , Johnson Sheeva , Yan Stephanie , Alli-Akintade Latifat , Wilson Machelle , Al-Juburi Amar , Stondell Jesse , Tejaswi Sooraj
Published: November 2019

Objectives and study aim Colonoscopy prevents colorectal cancer by removing adenomatous polyps, but missed adenomas lead to interval cancers. Different devices have been used to increase adenoma detection rates (ADR). Two such devices of interest are the transparent cap (Olympus) and Endocuff (ARC Medical). Our study aimed to compare differences in ADR between Endocuff-assisted colonoscopy (EAC), cap-assisted colonoscopy (CAC) and standard colonoscopy (SC).

Patients and methods A sample size of 126 subjects was calculated to determine an effect size of 30 %. Patients undergoing screening or surveillance colonoscopy between March 2016 and January 2017 were randomized to SC, CAC or EAC groups. Three experienced endoscopists performed all colonoscopies. Patient demographics, procedure indication, Boston Bowel Prep Score (BBPS), withdrawal time, polyp size, location, histopathology, were analyzed.

Results There was no difference in ADR (52 %, 40 % and 54 %) in the SC, CAC and EAC groups respectively (P = 0.4). Similar findings were also observed for proximal ADR (45 %, 35 %, and 50 %, P = 0.4) and SSA detection rate (16 %, 14 %, and 23 %, P = 0.5). EAC detected higher mean ADR per colonoscopy compared to CAC (1.70 vs 0.76, P = 0.01). However, there was no significant difference in mean ADR per positive colonoscopy (2.08, 1.63, and 2.59, P = 0.21).

Conclusion In a randomized controlled trial comparing AC to CAC and SC, neither device conferred additional benefits in ADR among high detectors. When comparing each device, EAC may be better than CAC at detecting more total adenomas.
International multicenter expert survey on endoscopic treatment of upper gastrointestinal anastomotic leaks
Authors: Rodrigues-Pinto Eduardo , Repici Alessandro , Donatelli Gianfranco , Macedo Guilherme , Devière Jacques , van Hooft Jeanin E. , Campos Josemberg M. , Galvao Neto Manoel , Silva Marco , Eisendrath Pierre , Kumbhari Vivek , Khashab Mouen A.
Published: November 2019

Background and study aims A variety of endoscopic techniques are currently available for treatment of upper gastrointestinal (UGI) anastomotic leaks; however, no definite consensus exists on the most appropriate therapeutic approach. Our aim was to explore current management of UGI anastomotic leaks.

Methods A survey questionnaire was distributed among international expert therapeutic endoscopists regarding management of UGI anastomotic leaks.

Results A total of 44 % of 163 surveys were returned; 69 % were from gastroenterologists and 56 % had > 10 years of experience. A third of respondents treat between 10 and 19 patients annually. Fifty-six percent use fully-covered self-expandable metal stents as their usual first option; 80% use techniques to minimize migration; 4 weeks was the most common reported stent dwell time. Sixty percent perform epithelial ablation prior to over-the-scope-clip placement or suturing. Regarding endoscopic vacuum therapy (EVT), 56 % perform balloon dilation and intracavitary EVT in patients with large cavities but small leak defects. Regarding endoscopic septotomy, 56 % consider a minimal interval of 4 weeks from surgery and 90 % consider the need to perform further sessions. Regarding endoscopic internal drainage (EID), placement of two stents and shorter stents is preferred. Persistent inflammation with clinical sepsis was the definition most commonly reported for endoscopic failure. EVT/stent placement and EVT/EID were the therapeutic options most often chosen in patients with previous oncologic surgery and previous bariatric surgery, respectively.

Conclusions There is a wide variation in the management of patients with UGI anastomotic leaks. Future prospective studies are needed to move from an expert- to evidence- and personalization-based care.
Effect of Variable Injection Sites for Indocyanine Green Dye on the Success of Lymphaticovenular Anastomosis
Authors: Nuri Takashi , Iwanaga Hiroyuki , Otsuki Yuki , Ueda Koichi
Published: November 2019

Background Indocyanine green lymphography (ICGL) allows more accurate visualization for lymphaticovenular anastomosis (LVA). However, the protocol for ICGL has not been established yet. We investigated how injection sites of ICG affect lymphography results by comparing ICGL images based on different injection sites on the same patients.

Methods Our hospital followed two ICGL protocols over time: ICG was injected into patients' 1st to 4th toe web spaces during 2013 to 2017 (Protocol 1), but into their lateral and medial ankles and 1st and 4th toe web spaces starting in 2018 (Protocol 2). Ten patients with secondary lymphedema who underwent LVA twice, using each protocol, were included in this study. We compared their results in detail and evaluated the effects of variable ICG injection sites.

Results The average period between patients' first and second LVAs was 506 days. In six patients, Protocol 2 detected new and additional linear findings that had not been detected by Protocol 1. Average reduction of lower limb circumferences after second LVAs (using Protocol 2) was 2.73 cm in patients who showed new linear findings, whereas those with no new findings showed little reduction.

Conclusion LVA based on ICG injections only into the dorsum of the foot can miss valuable findings. Variable ICG injection sites may improve detection of lymphatic flow and LVA efficacy.
Probing energy landscapes in multilayer heterostructures: Challenges and opportunities
Authors: Chambers Scott A. , Sushko Peter V.
Published: November 2019

Quantitative characterization of energy landscapes at buried interfaces is essential for assessing their functionality. This perspective highlights recent developments in reconstructing internal potential profiles based on hard x-ray photoemission experiments that have proved to be a rich source of information. We show that band-edge profiles can be reconstructed from core-level photoelectron spectra by performing a comprehensive search for the best-fit set of associated layer-resolved spectra. The use of hard x-rays allows heterostructures to be probed over length scales comparable to relevant electronic screening lengths. Significantly, this information takes our understanding of such systems to a new level that is not currently achievable using any other experimental technique.
Cost-effective fuel treatment planning: a theoretical justification and case study
Authors: Kreitler Jason , Thompson Matthew P. , Vaillant Nicole M. , Hawbaker Todd J.
Published: November 2019

Modelling the spatial prioritisation of fuel treatments and their net effect on values at risk is an important area for applied work as economic damages from wildfire continue to grow. We model and demonstrate a cost-effective fuel treatment planning algorithm using two ecosystem services as benefits for which fuel treatments are prioritised. We create a surface of expected fuel treatment costs to incorporate the heterogeneity in factors affecting the revenue and costs of fuel treatments, and then prioritise treatments based on a cost-effectiveness ratio to maximise the averted loss of ecosystem services from fire. We compare treatment scenarios that employ cost-effectiveness with those that do not, and use common tools and models in a case study of the Sisters Ranger District on the Deschutes National Forest in central Oregon, USA. Using cost-effectiveness not only increases the expected averted losses from fuel treatments, but it also allows a larger area to be treated for the same cost, simply by incorporating costs and cost-effectiveness into the prioritisation routine. These results have considerable implications for policymakers and land managers trying to minimise risk. Incorporating costs into the spatial planning of treatments could allow more effective outcomes without increasing fuel treatment budgets.
Current and future patterns of forest fire occurrence in China
Authors: Wu Zhiwei , He Hong S. , Keane Robert E. , Zhu Zhiliang , Wang Yeqiao , Shan Yanlong
Published: November 2019

Forest fire patterns are likely to be altered by climate change. We used boosted regression trees modelling and the MODIS Global Fire Atlas dataset (2003–15) to characterise relative influences of nine natural and human variables on fire patterns across five forest zones in China. The same modelling approach was used to project fire patterns for 2041–60 and 2061–80 based on two general circulation models for two representative concentration pathways scenarios. The results showed that, for the baseline period (2003–15) and across the five forest zones, climate variables explained 37.4–43.5% of the variability in fire occurrence and human activities were responsible for explaining an additional 27.0–36.5% of variability. The fire frequency was highest in the subtropical evergreen broadleaf forests zone in southern China, and lowest in the warm temperate deciduous broadleaved mixed-forests zone in northern China. Projection results showed an increasing trend in fire occurrence probability ranging from 43.3 to 99.9% and 41.4 to 99.3% across forest zones under the two climate models and two representative concentration pathways scenarios relative to the current climate (2003–15). Increased fire occurrence is projected to shift from southern to central-northern China for both 2041–60 and 2061–80.
(Re)negotiation of the cultural and linguistic identities of the Azorean Portuguese in Eastern Massachusetts
Authors: Gubitosi Patricia , Oliveira Judy de
Published: November 2019

Linguistic identity of migrant communities is highly related to cultural practices. Given that social and individual identity emerges through social interaction and discursive practices where the role of linguistic processes is fundamental, this paper analyses how Portuguese migrants and their descendants negotiate and contest their cultural and linguistic identity while struggling to maintain their language and traditions in Eastern Massachusetts.
Misunderstanding the Universal Audience
Authors: Gross Alan G.
Published: November 2019

A major contribution to rhetorical theory and an important tool of rhetorical criticism, Perelman’s distinction between particular audiences and the universal audience has been misconstrued by his critics and even by Perelman himself. Properly construed, the universal audience is focused on facts and truths and consists of all human beings in so far as they are rational; consequently, discourse addressed to it eschews proofs from character and emotion. In contrast, addresses to particular audiences focus on values; they embrace not only proofs reason, but also those from character and emotion.
Poor man’s scaling and Lie algebras
Authors: Kogan Eugene
Published: November 2019

We consider a general model, describing a quantum impurity with degenerate energy levels, interacting with a gas of itinerant electrons, derive general scaling equation for the model, and analyse the connection between its particular forms and the symmetry of interaction. On the basis of this analysis we write down scaling equations for the Hamiltonians which are the direct products of su(3) Lie algebras and have either SU(2) × U(1) or SU(2) symmetry. We also put into a new context anisotropic Coqblin—Schrieffer models proposed by us earlier.
Ferroelectricity and stability measurements in perovskite solar cells
Authors: Colsmann Alexander , Röhm Holger
Published: November 2019

With the ferroelectric nature of modern perovskite solar cells being more and more accepted by the community, new questions arise. How do the microscopic electric fields within the polar domains affect the device performance, and how must measurement routines be adapted to account for the ferroelectric effect within the light-harvesting layer? This becomes particularly important, if devices are measured constantly for a long time as commonly performed in solar cell ageing tests. In this perspective article, we discuss which effects may arise from creeping poling even under low driving voltages or under illumination, as well as effects from phase transitions when crossing the Curie temperature for accelerated ageing at elevated temperatures. We elucidate why ferroelectric effects must be carefully considered when assessing the lifetime of perovskite solar cells and where comparability comes to its limits.
Seed release by a serotinous pine in the absence of fire: implications for invasion into temperate regions
Authors: Wyse Sarah V , Brown Jerusha E , Hulme Philip E
Published: November 2019

In pines, the release of seeds from serotinous cones is primarily considered a response to the high temperatures of a fire. However, the naturalization of serotinous pines in regions where fires are rare highlights the need to quantify environmental conditions that determine seed release to allow accurate prediction of dispersal and spread risk. We investigated the conditions that break cone serotiny in Pinus radiata, a widely planted forestry species that has naturalized in temperate regions worldwide. We quantified the cone temperatures at which cones open in this species, while also assessing potential confounding effects of cone moisture and age on these temperature requirements. We compared our laboratory results with cone opening behaviour under typical field conditions during summer in Canterbury, New Zealand. Cones opened at a mean temperature of 45 °C, much higher than maximum ambient air temperatures recorded in New Zealand. We found no influence of cone age or moisture content on opening temperature. Under field conditions, cones opened upon reaching similar temperatures to those determined in the laboratory; however, passive solar heating caused cones to reach temperatures up to 15 °C higher than ambient conditions. This resulted in 50 % of cones opening in field conditions where maximum air temperatures never exceeded 30 °C. Our results highlight the need for complementary laboratory and field experiments for understanding seed release from serotinous cones. Our findings have important implications for weed risk assessments, showing that serotinous pines can release seed in temperate climates without fire.
Sustained involuntary muscle activity in cerebral palsy and stroke: same symptom, diverse mechanisms
Authors: Forman Christian Riis , Svane Christian , Kruuse Christina , Gracies Jean-Michel , Nielsen Jens Bo , Lorentzen Jakob
Published: November 2019

Individuals with lesions of central motor pathways frequently suffer from sustained involuntary muscle activity. This symptom shares clinical characteristics with dystonia but is observable in individuals classified as spastic. The term spastic dystonia has been introduced, although the underlying mechanisms of involuntary activity are not clarified and vary between individuals depending on the disorder. This study aimed to investigate the nature and pathophysiology of sustained involuntary muscle activity in adults with cerebral palsy and stroke. Seventeen adults with cerebral palsy (Gross Motor Function Classification System I–V), 8 adults with chronic stroke and 14 control individuals participated in the study. All individuals with cerebral palsy or stroke showed increased resistance to passive movement with Modified Ashworth Scale >1. Two-minute surface EMG recordings were obtained from the biceps muscle during attempted rest in three positions of the elbow joint; a maximally flexed position, a 90-degree position and a maximally extended position. Cross-correlation analysis of sustained involuntary muscle activity from individuals with cerebral palsy and stroke, and recordings of voluntary isometric contractions from control individuals were performed to examine common synaptic drive. In total, 13 out of 17 individuals with cerebral palsy and all 8 individuals with stroke contained sustained involuntary muscle activity. In individuals with cerebral palsy, the level of muscle activity was not affected by the joint position. In individuals with stroke, the level of muscle activity significantly (P < 0.05) increased from the flexed position to the 90 degree and extended position. Cumulant density function indicated significant short-term synchronization of motor unit activities in all recordings. All groups exhibited significant coherence in the alpha (6–15 Hz), beta (16–35 Hz) and early gamma band (36–60 Hz). The cerebral palsy group had lower alpha band coherence estimates, but higher gamma band coherence estimates compared with the stroke group. Individuals with increased resistance to passive movement due to cerebral palsy or stroke frequently suffer sustained involuntary muscle activity, which cannot exclusively be described by spasticity. The sustained involuntary muscle activity in both groups originated from a common synaptic input to the motor neuron pool, but the generating mechanisms could differ between groups. In cerebral palsy it seemed to originate more from central mechanisms, whereas peripheral mechanisms likely play a larger role in stroke. The sustained involuntary muscle activity should not be treated simply like the spinal stretch reflex mediated symptom of spasticity and should not either be treated identically in both groups.
A comparative life-cycle analysis of tall onshore steel wind-turbine towers
Authors: Stavridou N , Koltsakis E , Baniotopoulos C C
Published: November 2019

Earth has lately been suffering from unforeseen catastrophic phenomena related to the consequences of the greenhouse effect. It is therefore essential not only that sustainability criteria be incorporated into the everyday lifestyle, but also that energy-saving procedures be enhanced. According to the number of wind farms installed annually, wind energy is among the most promising sustainable-energy sources. Taking into account the last statement for energy-saving methods, it is essential to value the contribution of wind energy not only in eliminating CO2 emissions when producing electricity from wind, but also in assessing the total environmental impact associated with the entire lifetime of all the processes related with this energy-production chain. In order to quantify such environmental impacts, life-cycle analysis (LCA) is performed. As a matter of fact, there are a very limited number of studies devoted to LCA of onshore wind-energy-converter supporting towers—a fact that constitutes a first-class opportunity to perform high-end research. In the present work, the life-cycle performance of two types of tall onshore wind-turbine towers has been investigated: a lattice tower and a tubular one. For comparison reasons, both tower configurations have been designed to sustain the same loads, although they have been manufactured by different production methods, different amounts of material were used and different mounting procedures have been applied; all the aforementioned items diversify in their overall life-cycle performance as well as their performance in all LCA phases examined separately. The life-cycle performance of the two different wind-turbine-tower systems is calculated with the use of efficient open LCA software and valuable conclusions have been drawn when combining structural and LCA results in terms of comparing alternative configurations of the supporting systems for wind-energy converters.
Melatonin inhibits inflammasome-associated activation of endothelium and macrophages attenuating pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Zhang Jingyuan , Lu Xiaohui , Liu Mei , Fan Hanlu , Zheng Han , Zhang Shanshan , Rahman Nafis , Wołczyński Sławomir , Kretowski Adam , Li Xiangdong
Published: November 2019

Aims

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a pathophysiological syndrome associated with pulmonary/systemic inflammation. Melatonin relieves PAH, but the molecular mode of action remains unclear. Here, we investigated the role of melatonin in normalizing vascular homeostasis.

Methods and results

Light-time mean serum melatonin concentration was lower in patients with PAH than in normal controls [11.06 ± 3.44 (7.13–15.6) vs. 14.55 ± 1.28 (8.0–19.4) pg/mL], which was negatively correlated with increased serum levels of interleukin-1β (IL-1β) in patients with PAH. We showed that inflammasomes were activated in the PAH mice model and that melatonin attenuated IL-1β secretion. On one hand, melatonin reduced the number of macrophages in lung by inhibiting the endothelial chemokines and adhesion factors. Moreover, use of Il1r−/− mice, Caspase1/11−/− mice, and melatonin-treated mice revealed that melatonin reduced hypoxia-induced vascular endothelial leakage in the lung. On the other hand, we verified that melatonin reduced the formation of inflammasome multiprotein complexes by modulating calcium ions in macrophages using a live cell station, and melatonin decreased inositol triphosphate and increased cAMP. Furthermore, knockdown of melatonin membrane receptors blocked melatonin function, and a melatonin membrane receptors agonist inactivated inflammasomes in macrophages.

Conclusion

Melatonin attenuated inflammasome-associated vascular disorders by directly improving endothelial leakage and decreasing the formation of inflammasome multiprotein complexes in macrophages. Taken together, our data provide a theoretical basis for applying melatonin clinically, and inflammasomes may be a possible target of PAH treatment.