Showing papers by "University of Connecticut published in 2017"
20 Aug 2017
TL;DR: “Ouroboros” is presented, the first blockchain protocol based on proof of stake with rigorous security guarantees and it is proved that, given this mechanism, honest behavior is an approximate Nash equilibrium, thus neutralizing attacks such as selfish mining.
Abstract: We present “Ouroboros”, the first blockchain protocol based on proof of stake with rigorous security guarantees. We establish security properties for the protocol comparable to those achieved by the bitcoin blockchain protocol. As the protocol provides a “proof of stake” blockchain discipline, it offers qualitative efficiency advantages over blockchains based on proof of physical resources (e.g., proof of work). We also present a novel reward mechanism for incentivizing Proof of Stake protocols and we prove that, given this mechanism, honest behavior is an approximate Nash equilibrium, thus neutralizing attacks such as selfish mining.
1,314 citations
13 Dec 2017
TL;DR: This article attempts to provide an overview of some of the recent successful data-driven “materials informatics” strategies undertaken in the last decade, with particular emphasis on the fingerprint or descriptor choices.
Abstract: Propelled partly by the Materials Genome Initiative, and partly by the algorithmic developments and the resounding successes of data-driven efforts in other domains, informatics strategies are beginning to take shape within materials science. These approaches lead to surrogate machine learning models that enable rapid predictions based purely on past data rather than by direct experimentation or by computations/simulations in which fundamental equations are explicitly solved. Data-centric informatics methods are becoming useful to determine material properties that are hard to measure or compute using traditional methods—due to the cost, time or effort involved—but for which reliable data either already exists or can be generated for at least a subset of the critical cases. Predictions are typically interpolative, involving fingerprinting a material numerically first, and then following a mapping (established via a learning algorithm) between the fingerprint and the property of interest. Fingerprints, also referred to as “descriptors”, may be of many types and scales, as dictated by the application domain and needs. Predictions may also be extrapolative—extending into new materials spaces—provided prediction uncertainties are properly taken into account. This article attempts to provide an overview of some of the recent successful data-driven “materials informatics” strategies undertaken in the last decade, with particular emphasis on the fingerprint or descriptor choices. The review also identifies some challenges the community is facing and those that should be overcome in the near future.
1,021 citations
TL;DR: The contributions of the syndemics approach for understanding both interacting chronic diseases in social context, and the implications of a Syndemics orientation to the issue of health rights, are examined.
805 citations
TL;DR: A critical review that encompasses the fundamentals and state-of-the-art knowledge of barium titanate-based piezoelectrics is presented in this paper, where a detailed compilation of their functional and mechanical properties is provided.
Abstract: We present a critical review that encompasses the fundamentals and state-of-the-art knowledge of barium titanate-based piezoelectrics. First, the essential crystallography, thermodynamic relations, and concepts necessary to understand piezoelectricity and ferroelectricity in barium titanate are discussed. Strategies to optimize piezoelectric properties through microstructure control and chemical modification are also introduced. Thereafter, we systematically review the synthesis, microstructure, and phase diagrams of barium titanate-based piezoelectrics and provide a detailed compilation of their functional and mechanical properties. The most salient materials treated include the (Ba,Ca)(Zr,Ti)O3, (Ba,Ca)(Sn,Ti)O3, and (Ba,Ca)(Hf,Ti)O3 solid solution systems. The technological relevance of barium titanate-based piezoelectrics is also discussed and some potential market indicators are outlined. Finally, perspectives on productive lines of future research and promising areas for the applications of these ma...
697 citations
Yukawa Institute for Theoretical Physics1, KEK2, Nagoya University3, Brookhaven National Laboratory4, Université Paris-Saclay5, Washington University in St. Louis6, University of Connecticut7, University of Bern8, Spanish National Research Council9, University of Southern Denmark10, University of Rome Tor Vergata11, Forschungszentrum Jülich12, University of Wuppertal13, Osaka University14, San Francisco State University15, Indiana University16, Graduate University for Advanced Studies17, American Physical Society18, University of Edinburgh19, University of Southampton20, Aix-Marseille University21, National Chiao Tung University22, Roma Tre University23, Columbia University24, Autonomous University of Madrid25, University of Washington26, University of Mainz27
TL;DR: The determination of the light-quark masses, the form factor, and the decay constant ratio arising in the semileptonic $$K \rightarrow \pi $$K→π transition at zero momentum transfer are reported on.
Abstract: We review lattice results related to pion, kaon, D- and B-meson physics with the aim of making them easily accessible to the particle-physics community. More specifically, we report on the determination of the light-quark masses, the form factor [Formula: see text], arising in the semileptonic [Formula: see text] transition at zero momentum transfer, as well as the decay constant ratio [Formula: see text] and its consequences for the CKM matrix elements [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. Furthermore, we describe the results obtained on the lattice for some of the low-energy constants of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] Chiral Perturbation Theory. We review the determination of the [Formula: see text] parameter of neutral kaon mixing as well as the additional four B parameters that arise in theories of physics beyond the Standard Model. The latter quantities are an addition compared to the previous review. For the heavy-quark sector, we provide results for [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] (also new compared to the previous review), as well as those for D- and B-meson-decay constants, form factors, and mixing parameters. These are the heavy-quark quantities most relevant for the determination of CKM matrix elements and the global CKM unitarity-triangle fit. Finally, we review the status of lattice determinations of the strong coupling constant [Formula: see text].
678 citations
Charité1, Oregon Health & Science University2, French Institute of Health and Medical Research3, University of Western Australia4, King Edward Memorial Hospital5, Sanford Health6, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario7, University of Toronto8, University of Cambridge9, University College London10, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory11, Queen Mary University of London12, Radboud University Nijmegen13, Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute14, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven15, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine16, University of Kiel17, University of Pennsylvania18, University of Luxembourg19, Medical College of Wisconsin20, Newcastle University21, Tohoku University22, Manchester Royal Eye Hospital23, John Radcliffe Hospital24, University of Sydney25, University of Miami26, Garvan Institute of Medical Research27, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory28, University of Connecticut29
TL;DR: The progress of the HPO project is reviewed, including specific areas of expansion such as common (complex) disease, new algorithms for phenotype driven genomic discovery and diagnostics, integration of cross-species mapping efforts with the Mammalian Phenotype Ontology, an improved quality control pipeline, and the addition of patient-friendly terminology.
Abstract: Deep phenotyping has been defined as the precise and comprehensive analysis of phenotypic abnormalities in which the individual components of the phenotype are observed and described. The three components of the Human Phenotype Ontology (HPO; www.human-phenotype-ontology.org) project are the phenotype vocabulary, disease-phenotype annotations and the algorithms that operate on these. These components are being used for computational deep phenotyping and precision medicine as well as integration of clinical data into translational research. The HPO is being increasingly adopted as a standard for phenotypic abnormalities by diverse groups such as international rare disease organizations, registries, clinical labs, biomedical resources, and clinical software tools and will thereby contribute toward nascent efforts at global data exchange for identifying disease etiologies. This update article reviews the progress of the HPO project since the debut Nucleic Acids Research database article in 2014, including specific areas of expansion such as common (complex) disease, new algorithms for phenotype driven genomic discovery and diagnostics, integration of cross-species mapping efforts with the Mammalian Phenotype Ontology, an improved quality control pipeline, and the addition of patient-friendly terminology.
638 citations
TL;DR: This review highlights recent developments for the direct synthesis of single-layer LDH nanosheets, as well as the emerging applications of LDH nano-fillers in catalyzing oxygen evolution reactions and preparing light emitting devices, supercapacitors, and flame retardant nanocomposites.
Abstract: Layered double hydroxides (LDHs) with their highly flexible and tunable chemical composition and physical properties have attracted tremendous attention in recent years. LDHs have found widespread application as catalysts, anion exchange materials, fire retardants, and nano-fillers in polymer nanocomposites. The ability to exfoliate LDHs into ultrathin nanosheets enables a range of new opportunities for multifunctional materials. In this review we summarize the current available LDH exfoliation methods. In particular, we highlight recent developments for the direct synthesis of single-layer LDH nanosheets, as well as the emerging applications of LDH nanosheets in catalyzing oxygen evolution reactions and preparing light emitting devices, supercapacitors, and flame retardant nanocomposites.
597 citations
TL;DR: In this article, a review of defect formation mechanisms in selective laser melting (SLM) is provided, which summarizes the recent research outcomes on defect findings and classification, analyzes formation mechanisms of the common defects, such as porosities, incomplete fusion holes, and cracks.
Abstract: Defect formation is a common problem in selective laser melting (SLM). This paper provides a review of defect formation mechanisms in SLM. It summarizes the recent research outcomes on defect findings and classification, analyzes formation mechanisms of the common defects, such as porosities, incomplete fusion holes, and cracks. The paper discusses the effect of the process parameters on defect formation and the impact of defect formation on the mechanical properties of a fabricated part. Based on the discussion, the paper proposes strategies for defect suppression and control in SLM.
504 citations
TL;DR: In this article, a review article mainly focuses on the development of CDs based fluorescent sensors in recent 5 years, and a broad range of analytes including cations, anions, small molecules, macromolecules, cells and bacteria are discussed.
Abstract: Fluorescent carbon dots (CDs) are a new class of carbon nanomaterials and have demonstrated excellent optical properties, good biocompatibility, great aqueous solubility, low cost, simple synthesis, etc. Since their discovery, various synthesis methods using different precursors have been developed, and are mainly classified as top-down and bottom-up approaches. For the mechanistic origin of CDs photoluminescence, three mechanisms have been proposed such as quantum confinement effect, surface state and molecule state. CDs have presented many applications, and this review article mainly focuses on the development of CDs based fluorescent sensors in recent 5 years. The sensing mechanisms, senor design and sensing properties to various targets are summarized. A broad range of analytes including cations, anions, small molecules, macromolecules, cells and bacteria have been discussed. In addition, the challenges and future directions for CDs as sensing materials are also presented.
493 citations
TL;DR: The assumption that measurement error always reduces effect sizes is false means that any study finding an effect under noisy conditions provides evidence that the underlying effect is particularly strong and robust.
Abstract: Measurement error adds noise to predictions, increases uncertainty in parameter estimates, and makes it more difficult to discover new phenomena or to distinguish among competing theories. A common view is that any study finding an effect under noisy conditions provides evidence that the underlying effect is particularly strong and robust. Yet, statistical significance conveys very little information when measurements are noisy. In noisy research settings, poor measurement can contribute to exaggerated estimates of effect size. This problem and related misunderstandings are key components in a feedback loop that perpetuates the replication crisis in science.
407 citations
TL;DR: It is shown that secondary succession in tropical landscapes is a multifactorial phenomenon affected by a myriad of forces operating at multiple spatio‐temporal scales, and succession must be examined using more comprehensive explanatory models.
Abstract: Old-growth tropical forests are being extensively deforested and fragmented worldwide. Yet forest recovery through succession has led to an expansion of secondary forests in human-modified tropical landscapes (HMTLs). Secondary forests thus emerge as a potential repository for tropical biodiversity, and also as a source of essential ecosystem functions and services in HMTLs. Such critical roles are controversial, however, as they depend on successional, landscape and socio-economic dynamics, which can vary widely within and across landscapes and regions. Understanding the main drivers of successional pathways of disturbed tropical forests is critically needed for improving management, conservation, and restoration strategies. Here, we combine emerging knowledge from tropical forest succession, forest fragmentation and landscape ecology research to identify the main driving forces shaping successional pathways at different spatial scales. We also explore causal connections between land-use dynamics and the level of predictability of successional pathways, and examine potential implications of such connections to determine the importance of secondary forests for biodiversity conservation in HMTLs. We show that secondary succession (SS) in tropical landscapes is a multifactorial phenomenon affected by a myriad of forces operating at multiple spatio-temporal scales. SS is relatively fast and more predictable in recently modified landscapes and where well-preserved biodiversity-rich native forests are still present in the landscape. Yet the increasing variation in landscape spatial configuration and matrix heterogeneity in landscapes with intermediate levels of disturbance increases the uncertainty of successional pathways. In landscapes that have suffered extensive and intensive human disturbances, however, succession can be slow or arrested, with impoverished assemblages and reduced potential to deliver ecosystem functions and services. We conclude that: (i) succession must be examined using more comprehensive explanatory models, providing information about the forces affecting not only the presence but also the persistence of species and ecological groups, particularly of those taxa expected to be extirpated from HMTLs; (ii) SS research should integrate new aspects from forest fragmentation and landscape ecology research to address accurately the potential of secondary forests to serve as biodiversity repositories; and (iii) secondary forest stands, as a dynamic component of HMTLs, must be incorporated as key elements of conservation planning; i.e. secondary forest stands must be actively managed (e.g. using assisted forest restoration) according to conservation goals at broad spatial scales.
TL;DR: It is revealed that delta cells specifically express receptors that receive and coordinate systemic cues from the leptin, ghrelin, and dopamine signaling pathways implicating them as integrators of central and peripheral metabolic signals into the pancreatic islet.
Abstract: Blood glucose levels are tightly controlled by the coordinated action of at least four cell types constituting pancreatic islets. Changes in the proportion and/or function of these cells are associated with genetic and molecular pathophysiology of monogenic, type 1, and type 2 (T2D) diabetes. Cellular heterogeneity impedes precise understanding of the molecular components of each islet cell type that govern islet (dys)function, particularly the less abundant delta and gamma/pancreatic polypeptide (PP) cells. Here, we report single-cell transcriptomes for 638 cells from nondiabetic (ND) and T2D human islet samples. Analyses of ND single-cell transcriptomes identified distinct alpha, beta, delta, and PP/gamma cell-type signatures. Genes linked to rare and common forms of islet dysfunction and diabetes were expressed in the delta and PP/gamma cell types. Moreover, this study revealed that delta cells specifically express receptors that receive and coordinate systemic cues from the leptin, ghrelin, and dopamine signaling pathways implicating them as integrators of central and peripheral metabolic signals into the pancreatic islet. Finally, single-cell transcriptome profiling revealed genes differentially regulated between T2D and ND alpha, beta, and delta cells that were undetectable in paired whole islet analyses. This study thus identifies fundamental cell-type-specific features of pancreatic islet (dys)function and provides a critical resource for comprehensive understanding of islet biology and diabetes pathogenesis.
Jamia Millia Islamia1, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology2, Hanoi University of Science3, Saitama University4, Aarhus University5, University of California, Santa Barbara6, Commissariat à l'énergie atomique et aux énergies alternatives7, University of Münster8, University of Connecticut9, University of Manchester10, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati11, Leiden University12, Northwestern University13, Federal University of Paraíba14, Centre national de la recherche scientifique15, Universidade Federal do ABC16, University of Southampton17, Argonne National Laboratory18, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology19, University of Mainz20, Technische Universität München21, Max Planck Society22, Heidelberg University23, University of Tübingen24, Massachusetts Institute of Technology25, Durham University26, University of California, San Diego27, C. N. Yang Institute for Theoretical Physics28, Russian Academy of Sciences29, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology30, University of Sydney31, University of Copenhagen32, Université libre de Bruxelles33, Paris Diderot University34, Niels Bohr Institute35, Estácio S.A.36, CERN37, University of California, Santa Cruz38, Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy39, University of Bern40, Institute for Advanced Study41, RWTH Aachen University42, Chinese Academy of Sciences43, East China University of Science and Technology44, University of Chicago45, Autonomous University of Madrid46, King's College London47, INAF48, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory49, Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare50, University of Bari51, University of Geneva52, Petersburg Nuclear Physics Institute53, University of Genoa54, Kapteyn Astronomical Institute55, Fermilab56, Spanish National Research Council57, Oak Ridge National Laboratory58, University of California, Berkeley59, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne60, University of Paris61, University of Zurich62, Mitchell Institute63, Tohoku University64, Princeton University65, Shimane University66, University of Maryland, College Park67, Dresden University of Technology68
TL;DR: A comprehensive review of keV-scale neutrino Dark Matter can be found in this paper, where the role of active neutrinos in particle physics, astrophysics, and cosmology is reviewed.
Abstract: We present a comprehensive review of keV-scale sterile neutrino Dark Matter, collecting views and insights from all disciplines involved—cosmology, astrophysics, nuclear, and particle physics—in each case viewed from both theoretical and experimental/observational perspectives. After reviewing the role of active neutrinos in particle physics, astrophysics, and cosmology, we focus on sterile neutrinos in the context of the Dark Matter puzzle. Here, we first review the physics motivation for sterile neutrino Dark Matter, based on challenges and tensions in purely cold Dark Matter scenarios. We then round out the discussion by critically summarizing all known constraints on sterile neutrino Dark Matter arising from astrophysical observations, laboratory experiments, and theoretical considerations. In this context, we provide a balanced discourse on the possibly positive signal from X-ray observations. Another focus of the paper concerns the construction of particle physics models, aiming to explain how sterile neutrinos of keV-scale masses could arise in concrete settings beyond the Standard Model of elementary particle physics. The paper ends with an extensive review of current and future astrophysical and laboratory searches, highlighting new ideas and their experimental challenges, as well as future perspectives for the discovery of sterile neutrinos.
TL;DR: The multistep workflow required for force fields construction is discussed, which begins with generating diverse reference atomic environments and force data, choosing a numerical representation for the atomic environments, selecting a representative training set, and lastly the learning method itself, for the case of Al.
Abstract: Force fields developed with machine learning methods in tandem with quantum mechanics are beginning to find merit, given their (i) low cost, (ii) accuracy, and (iii) versatility. Recently, we proposed one such approach, wherein, the vectorial force on an atom is computed directly from its environment. Here, we discuss the multistep workflow required for their construction, which begins with generating diverse reference atomic environments and force data, choosing a numerical representation for the atomic environments, down selecting a representative training set, and lastly the learning method itself, for the case of Al. The constructed force field is then validated by simulating complex materials phenomena such as surface melting and stress–strain behavior, that truly go beyond the realm of ab initio methods, both in length and time scales. To make such force fields truly versatile an attempt to estimate the uncertainty in force predictions is put forth, allowing one to identify areas of poor performance...
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors developed and tested a multilevel model connecting dual-focused transformational leadership (TFL) and creativity and incorporating intervening mechanisms at the two levels, and found that knowledge sharing constituted a cross-level contextual factor that moderated the relationship among individual-focused TFL, skill development, and individual creativity.
Abstract: Summary
Addressing the challenges faced by team leaders in fostering both individual and team creativity, this research developed and tested a multilevel model connecting dual-focused transformational leadership (TFL) and creativity and incorporating intervening mechanisms at the two levels. Using multilevel, multisource survey data from individual members, team leaders, and direct supervisors in high-technology firms, we found that individual-focused TFL had a positive indirect effect on individual creativity via individual skill development, whereas team-focused TFL impacted team creativity partially through its influence on team knowledge sharing. We also found that knowledge sharing constituted a cross-level contextual factor that moderated the relationship among individual-focused TFL, skill development, and individual creativity. We discuss the theoretical and practical implications of this research and offer suggestions for future research. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
TL;DR: This paper examined teacher leadership research completed since York-Barr and Duke published the seminal review on teacher leadership in 2004, concluding that teacher leadership, although rarely defined, focused on roles beyond the classroom, supporting the professional learning of peers, influencing policy/decision making, and ultimately targeting student learning.
Abstract: In the current review, we examined teacher leadership research completed since York-Barr and Duke published the seminal review on teacher leadership in 2004. The review was undertaken to examine how teacher leadership is defined, how teacher leaders are prepared, their impact, and those factors that facilitate or inhibit teacher leaders’ work. Beyond this, the review considered theories informing teacher leadership, teacher leadership within disciplinary contexts, and the roles of teacher leaders in social justice and equity issues. The most salient findings were (a) teacher leadership, although rarely defined, focused on roles beyond the classroom, supporting the professional learning of peers, influencing policy/decision making, and ultimately targeting student learning; (b) the research is not always theoretically grounded; (c) principals, school structures, and norms are important in empowering or marginalizing teacher leaders; and (d) very little teacher leadership research examines issues of social ...
TL;DR: The purpose of this chapter is to advance theory in a world where literacy has become deictic and suggests that a dual-level theory of New Literacies is a useful approach to theory building in a World where the nature of literacy continuously changes.
Abstract: This chapter suggests that a dual-level theory of new literacies is a useful approach to theory building in a world where the nature of literacy continuously changes. It begins by making a central point: Social contexts have always shaped both the function and form of literate practices and been shaped by them in return. The chapter discusses the social context of the current period and explain how this has produced new information and communication technologies, and the new literacies that the technologies demand. It explores several lowercase new literacies perspectives that are emerging. The chapter argues that a dual-level New Literacies theory is essential to take full advantage of this important and diverse work. It presents one lowercase theory of new literacies, the new literacies of online research and comprehension, to illustrate how a dual-level theory of new literacies can inform new literacies research that takes related but different theoretical perspectives.
TL;DR: The zeptolitre sensing volume of bilayer-coated solid-state nanopores can be used to determine the approximate shape, volume, charge, rotational diffusion coefficient and dipole moment of individual proteins.
Abstract: Established methods for characterizing proteins typically require physical or chemical modification steps or cannot be used to examine individual molecules in solution. Ionic current measurements through electrolyte-filled nanopores can characterize single native proteins in an aqueous environment, but currently offer only limited capabilities. Here we show that the zeptolitre sensing volume of bilayer-coated solid-state nanopores can be used to determine the approximate shape, volume, charge, rotational diffusion coefficient and dipole moment of individual proteins. To do this, we developed a theory for the quantitative understanding of modulations in ionic current that arise from the rotational dynamics of single proteins as they move through the electric field inside the nanopore. The approach allows us to measure the five parameters simultaneously, and we show that they can be used to identify, characterize and quantify proteins and protein complexes with potential implications for structural biology, proteomics, biomarker detection and routine protein analysis.
TL;DR: It is found that the presence of a food swamp is a stronger predictor of obesity rates than the absence of full-service grocery stores, and local government policies such as zoning laws simultaneously restricting access to unhealthy food outlets and incentivizing healthy food retailers to locate in underserved neighborhoods warrant consideration as strategies to increase health equity.
Abstract: This paper investigates the effect of food environments, characterized as food swamps, on adult obesity rates. Food swamps have been described as areas with a high-density of establishments selling high-calorie fast food and junk food, relative to healthier food options. This study examines multiple ways of categorizing food environments as food swamps and food deserts, including alternate versions of the Retail Food Environment Index. We merged food outlet, sociodemographic and obesity data from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food Environment Atlas, the American Community Survey, and a commercial street reference dataset. We employed an instrumental variables (IV) strategy to correct for the endogeneity of food environments (i.e., that individuals self-select into neighborhoods and may consider food availability in their decision). Our results suggest that the presence of a food swamp is a stronger predictor of obesity rates than the absence of full-service grocery stores. We found, even after controlling for food desert effects, food swamps have a positive, statistically significant effect on adult obesity rates. All three food swamp measures indicated the same positive association, but reflected different magnitudes of the food swamp effect on rates of adult obesity (p values ranged from 0.00 to 0.16). Our adjustment for reverse causality, using an IV approach, revealed a stronger effect of food swamps than would have been obtained by naive ordinary least squares (OLS) estimates. The food swamp effect was stronger in counties with greater income inequality (p < 0.05) and where residents are less mobile (p < 0.01). Based on these findings, local government policies such as zoning laws simultaneously restricting access to unhealthy food outlets and incentivizing healthy food retailers to locate in underserved neighborhoods warrant consideration as strategies to increase health equity.
TL;DR: This meta-analysis of 133 studies demonstrated that natural regeneration surpasses active restoration in achieving tropical forest restoration success for all three biodiversity groups and five measures of vegetation structure tested.
Abstract: Is active restoration the best approach to achieve ecological restoration success (the return to a reference condition, that is, old-growth forest) when compared to natural regeneration in tropical forests? Our meta-analysis of 133 studies demonstrated that natural regeneration surpasses active restoration in achieving tropical forest restoration success for all three biodiversity groups (plants, birds, and invertebrates) and five measures of vegetation structure (cover, density, litter, biomass, and height) tested. Restoration success for biodiversity and vegetation structure was 34 to 56% and 19 to 56% higher in natural regeneration than in active restoration systems, respectively, after controlling for key biotic and abiotic factors (forest cover, precipitation, time elapsed since restoration started, and past disturbance). Biodiversity responses were based primarily on ecological metrics of abundance and species richness (74%), both of which take far less time to achieve restoration success than similarity and composition. This finding challenges the widely held notion that natural forest regeneration has limited conservation value and that active restoration should be the default ecological restoration strategy. The proposition that active restoration achieves greater restoration success than natural regeneration may have arisen because previous comparisons lacked controls for biotic and abiotic factors; we also did not find any difference between active restoration and natural regeneration outcomes for vegetation structure when we did not control for these factors. Future policy priorities should align the identified patterns of biophysical and ecological conditions where each or both restoration approaches are more successful, cost-effective, and compatible with socioeconomic incentives for tropical forest restoration.
TL;DR: This policy statement seeks to raise awareness regarding the prevalence and negative effects of weight stigma on pediatric patients and their families and provides 6 clinical practice and 4 advocacy recommendations regarding the role of pediatricians in addressing weight stigma.
Abstract: The stigmatization of people with obesity is widespread and causes harm. Weight stigma is often propagated and tolerated in society because of beliefs that stigma and shame will motivate people to lose weight. However, rather than motivating positive change, this stigma contributes to behaviors such as binge eating, social isolation, avoidance of health care services, decreased physical activity, and increased weight gain, which worsen obesity and create additional barriers to healthy behavior change. Furthermore, experiences of weight stigma also dramatically impair quality of life, especially for youth. Health care professionals continue to seek effective strategies and resources to address the obesity epidemic; however, they also frequently exhibit weight bias and stigmatizing behaviors. This policy statement seeks to raise awareness regarding the prevalence and negative effects of weight stigma on pediatric patients and their families and provides 6 clinical practice and 4 advocacy recommendations regarding the role of pediatricians in addressing weight stigma. In summary, these recommendations include improving the clinical setting by modeling best practices for nonbiased behaviors and language; using empathetic and empowering counseling techniques, such as motivational interviewing, and addressing weight stigma and bullying in the clinic visit; advocating for inclusion of training and education about weight stigma in medical schools, residency programs, and continuing medical education programs; and empowering families to be advocates to address weight stigma in the home environment and school setting.
TL;DR: A case for a collaborative and integrated multidisciplinary approach to the management of patients undergoing radiation therapy for the head and neck is made, with specific recommendation to include knowledgeable and experienced oral health care professionals in the treatment team.
Abstract: Patients undergoing radiation therapy for the head and neck are susceptible to a significant and often abrupt deterioration in their oral health. The oral morbidities of radiation therapy include but are not limited to an increased susceptibility to dental caries and periodontal disease. They also include profound and often permanent functional and sensory changes involving the oral soft tissue. These changes range from oral mucositis experienced during and soon after treatment, mucosal opportunistic infections, neurosensory disorders, and tissue fibrosis. Many of the oral soft tissue changes following radiation therapy are difficult challenges to the patients and their caregivers and require life-long strategies to alleviate their deleterious effect on basic life functions and on the quality of life. We discuss the presentation, prognosis, and management strategies of the dental structure and oral soft tissue morbidities resulting from the administration of therapeutic radiation in head and neck patient. A case for a collaborative and integrated multidisciplinary approach to the management of these patients is made, with specific recommendation to include knowledgeable and experienced oral health care professionals in the treatment team.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors used DerSimonian-Laird random effects models to determine the overall incidence of pneumonitis and differences according to type of inhibitors and prior chemotherapy use.
University of Queensland1, Central South University2, University of Adelaide3, Heidelberg University4, University of Lübeck5, Imperial College London6, Tehran University of Medical Sciences7, Hong Kong Department of Health8, Catholic University of Korea9, Yale University10, University of Connecticut11, All India Institute of Medical Sciences12, McGill University13, Nottingham Trent University14, Prince of Songkla University15, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences16, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong17, National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre18
TL;DR: Gaming disorder shares many features with addictions due to psychoactive substances and with gambling disorder, and functional neuroimaging shows that similar areas of the brain are activated.
Abstract: Online gaming has greatly increased in popularity in recent years, and with this has come a multiplicity of problems due to excessive involvement in gaming. Gaming disorder, both online and offline, has been defined for the first time in the draft of 11th revision of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11). National surveys have shown prevalence rates of gaming disorder/addiction of 10%-15% among young people in several Asian countries and of 1%-10% in their counterparts in some Western countries. Several diseases related to excessive gaming are now recognized, and clinics are being established to respond to individual, family, and community concerns, but many cases remain hidden. Gaming disorder shares many features with addictions due to psychoactive substances and with gambling disorder, and functional neuroimaging shows that similar areas of the brain are activated. Governments and health agencies worldwide are seeking for the effects of online gaming to be addressed, and for preventive approaches to be developed. Central to this effort is a need to delineate the nature of the problem, which is the purpose of the definitions in the draft of ICD-11.
01 Jan 2017
TL;DR: This chapter provides details of the challenges and associated problems which usually arise during the characterization of the nanomaterials and ways to resolve the issues with an emphasis on minimizing the associated interferences.
Abstract: Nanoparticle manufacturing industries use well-established synthesis protocols or methodology as much as possible. The nanomaterials have unique physical and chemical properties at the atomic and molecular levels which often interfere with the standardized methods and compromise the reproducibility of the results. This chapter provides details of the challenges and associated problems which usually arise during the characterization of the nanomaterials and ways to resolve the issues with an emphasis on minimizing the associated interferences.
Imperial College London1, Newcastle University2, University of East Anglia3, Zoological Society of London4, American Museum of Natural History5, University of Cambridge6, BirdLife International7, National Autonomous University of Mexico8, Lancaster University9, University of Connecticut10, University of Oxford11, State University of Santa Cruz12, Oregon State University13, University of Liverpool14, Ghent University15, National University of Colombia16, University of Pretoria17, University of Western Ontario18, University of Wisconsin-Madison19, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul20, University of Münster21, University of Kent22, Pontifical Xavierian University23, John Carroll University24, California State University, Los Angeles25
TL;DR: A global dataset on species responses to fragmentation and a statistical approach for quantifying edge impacts in heterogeneous landscapes are assembled to quantify edge-determined changes in abundance of 1,673 vertebrate species and highlight the pervasive ability of forest edges to restructure ecological communities on a global scale.
Abstract: Forest edges influence more than half of the world's forests and contribute to worldwide declines in biodiversity and ecosystem functions. However, predicting these declines is challenging in heterogeneous fragmented landscapes. Here we assembled a global dataset on species responses to fragmentation and developed a statistical approach for quantifying edge impacts in heterogeneous landscapes to quantify edge-determined changes in abundance of 1,673 vertebrate species. We show that the abundances of 85% of species are affected, either positively or negatively, by forest edges. Species that live in the centre of the forest (forest core), that were more likely to be listed as threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), reached peak abundances only at sites farther than 200-400 m from sharp high-contrast forest edges. Smaller-bodied amphibians, larger reptiles and medium-sized non-volant mammals experienced a larger reduction in suitable habitat than other forest-core species. Our results highlight the pervasive ability of forest edges to restructure ecological communities on a global scale.
TL;DR: Kim et al. as mentioned in this paper presented a survey of the challenges and benefits of aquaculture in the South Korean SEA, focusing on the cultivation technologies, challenges and ecosystem services of sea algae.
Abstract: Copyright © 2017 The Korean Society of Phycology 1 http://e-algae.org pISSN: 1226-2617 eISSN: 2093-0860 Seaweed aquaculture: cultivation technologies, challenges and its ecosystem services Jang K. Kim, Charles Yarish*, Eun Kyoung Hwang, Miseon Park and Youngdae Kim Department of Marine Science, School of Natural Sciences, Incheon National University, Incheon 22012, Korea Department of Marine Sciences, University of Connecticut, 1 University Place, Stamford, CT 06901, USA Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, University of Connecticut, 1 University Place, Stamford, CT 06901, USA Seaweed Research Center, National Institute of Fisheries Science, Mokpo 58746, Korea Southeast Sea Fisheries Research Institute, National Institute of Fisheries Science, Tongyeong 46083, Korea
TL;DR: The authors review the evolution of team research over the past century with a particular focus on that which has appeared in this journal, and chronicle the shift from a focus on individuals within teams, or on individual versus team comparisons, to afocus on the team itself and larger systems of teams.
Abstract: Work groups are a vital link between individuals and organizations. Systematic psychological research on the nature and effects of work groups dates back at least to the Hawthorne studies of the 1920s and 1930s. Yet little to none of this work appeared in the Journal of Applied Psychology until the 1950s when groups were treated primarily as foils against which to compare the performance of individuals. From the 1990s to the present, the volume of research and the nature of topics addressing work group/teams expanded significantly. The authors review the evolution of team research over the past century with a particular focus on that which has appeared in this journal. They chronicle the shift from a focus on individuals within teams, or on individual versus team comparisons, to a focus on the team itself and larger systems of teams. They describe the major outcomes studied within this literature, and how they relate to the nature of team tasks and structures. Further, the authors consider the roles of team members' characteristics and composition, and team dynamics in terms of processes and emergent states. They close with a call for future research that models dynamic team relationships in context and as they operate in complex systems. (PsycINFO Database Record
TL;DR: Overall, it has been well documented that Moringa Oleifera leaves are a good strategic for various conditions associated with heart disease, diabetes, cancer and fatty liver.
Abstract: Moringa Oleifera (MO), a plant from the family Moringacea is a major crop in Asia and Africa. MO has been studied for its health properties, attributed to the numerous bioactive components, including vitamins, phenolic acids, flavonoids, isothiocyanates, tannins and saponins, which are present in significant amounts in various components of the plant. Moringa Oleifera leaves are the most widely studied and they have shown to be beneficial in several chronic conditions, including hypercholesterolemia, high blood pressure, diabetes, insulin resistance, non-alcoholic liver disease, cancer and overall inflammation. In this review, we present information on the beneficial results that have been reported on the prevention and alleviation of these chronic conditions in various animal models and in cell studies. The existing limited information on human studies and Moringa Oleifera leaves is also presented. Overall, it has been well documented that Moringa Oleifera leaves are a good strategic for various conditions associated with heart disease, diabetes, cancer and fatty liver.
TL;DR: In this article, a systematic literature search elicited 101 studies reporting rates for youth aged 13 to 18, with a meta-analytic combination produced an overall prevalence of 20% for physical dating violence and 9% for sexual dating violence.
Abstract: Objective: The goals of the present review were to determine the prevalence of physical and sexual TDV among adolescents, obtain the rates of teen dating violence (TDV) separately by gender, and examine the potential moderation effects of age, demographics, and measurement. Method: A systematic literature search elicited 101 studies reporting rates for youth aged 13 to 18. Results: Meta-analytic combination produced an overall prevalence of 20% for physical TDV and 9% for sexual TDV. Significant variability in rates was found, with physical TDV ranging from 1% to 61% and sexual TDV ranging from <1% to 54%. Gender differences in physical TDV were significant for perpetration (boys 13% vs. girls 25%) but not for victimization (21% boys and girls). A different pattern was observed for sexual TDV with girls reporting lower rates of perpetration compared with boys (3% vs. 10%) and higher rates of victimization (14% vs. 8%). Moderator analyses revealed higher rates in samples representing higher proportions of older teens (sexual TDV), cultural minority girls (physical TDV), and disadvantaged neighborhoods (physical TDV). Studies using broad measurement tools yielded higher rates of both forms of TDV across gender. Conclusions: Basing the meta-analysis on a large pool of studies with comparable samples, 1 in 5 adolescents reported physical TDV and roughly 1 in 10 reported sexual TDV. Systematic bias in boys’ and girls’ self-reports was evident along with high variability in TDV rates across studies and significant moderator influences. These findings are suggestive of substantive methodological challenges in extant studies. The obtained rates should be cautiously interpreted and future research should address the methodological limitations of self-reported TDV, taking into consideration the potential influences of gender, demographics, age, and measurement issues when designing TDV research.