bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hydrogenation in multicrystalline silicon: The impact of dielectric film properties and firing conditions
Authors: Sio Hang Cheong , Phang Sieu Pheng , Nguyen Hieu T. , Hameiri Ziv , Macdonald Daniel
Published: October 2019

Hydrogenation is a crucial step for improving the efficiency of multicrystalline silicon solar cells. In this work, we investigate the influence of different firing and annealing conditions on the efficacy of bulk hydrogenation in state‐of‐the‐art high‐performance multicrystalline silicon, for a range of hydrogen‐containing dielectric layers. All of the dielectric films studied, including aluminium oxide, amorphous silicon, and silicon nitride deposited with different tools, yield similar bulk lifetimes when annealed at optimal conditions. However, the optimal conditions vary between films, depending on the film properties. The overall hydrogenation effect does not appear to be affected by the cooling rate used during firing or by the application of illuminated annealing, performed at 250 ° C under 8 sun illumination. Moreover, we monitor in situ changes in the recombination behaviour of grain boundaries during the hydrogenation process, using a micro‐photoluminescence spectroscopy system with a temperature controlled stage. It is found that the hydrogenation reaction occurs at the annealing temperature range between 400 ° C and 500 ° C.
Nature of C60 and C70 fullerene encapsulation in a porphyrin‐ and metalloporphyrin‐based cage: Insights from dispersion‐corrected density functional theory calculations
Authors: Camacho Gonzalez Johanna , Mondal Sukanta , Ocayo Fernanda , Guajardo‐Maturana Raul , Muñoz‐Castro Alvaro
Published: October 2019

The search for efficient synthetic hosts able to encapsulate fullerenes has attracted attention with regard to the purification and formation of ordered supramolecular architectures. This study of a porphyrin‐based cage as an extension of the well‐described ExCage6+ and BlueCage6+, involving viologen as sidearms, provides an interesting scenario where the oblate C70 fullerene is preferred in comparison to the spherical C60. Our results expose the nature of the fullerene‐cage interaction involving ∼50% of dispersion‐type interactions evidencing the strong π⋯π surface stacking, with a complementary contribution by the electrostatic and orbital polarization character produced by a charge reorganization with a charge accumulation facing the porphyrin macrocycles and a charge depletion along the equator formed by the viologens sidearms. Interestingly, the central N4H2 ring from each porphyrin contributes to the dispersion term via N‐H⋯π interactions, which is decreased when the metallate N4Zn is evaluated. Thus, the formation of stable and selective fullerene encapsulation can be achieved by taking into account two main driving forces, namely, (a) the extension of the π⋯π and X‐H⋯π stacking surface and (b) charge reorganization over the fullerene surfaces, which can be used to control fine tuning of the encapsulation thanks to the introduction of more electron‐deficient and electron‐rich groups within the host cage.
Proteomics profiling of swine serum following lipopolysaccharide stimulation
Authors: Olumee‐Shabon Zohra , Chattopadhaya Chaitali , Myers Michael J.
Published: October 2019

Rationale

There are no approved animal drugs for management of inflammation in swine due to lack of validated animal models. To assess efficacy, it was essential to develop proteomics approaches to identify suitable biomarkers of inflammation as presented in this study.

Methods

Serum samples were collected from a group of four pigs prior to (baseline) and 24 and 48 h following lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation to reveal proteomic changes during inflammation. Two other pigs served as untreated controls. Proteins were separated by either one‐dimensional sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE) or two‐dimensional (2D) gel electrophoresis (2DE) prior to analysis by nano‐flow liquid chromatography (nLC) coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS).

Results

We identified 165 proteins using SDS‐PAGE, of which 47 proteins were also detected by 2DE prior to nLC/MS/MS. More than half (72%) of all characterized proteins were modulated as a result of LPS stimulation, many of which are known to be involved with innate and adaptive immunity. Pig serum samples obtained 24 h after LPS initiation of inflammation showed protein modulations of serum albumin, serotransferrin, light and heavy immunoglobulin chains (IGs), and major acute phase proteins including haptoglobin (HPT), serum amyloid A2 (SAA2), C‐reactive protein (CRP), β‐2‐glycoprotein 1 (B‐2GP1), alpha‐2‐HS‐glycoprotein (A2HS), α‐1‐antitrypsin (A1AT), and α‐1‐acid glycoprotein (A1AG). SAA2 was distinguished from the other SAA isoforms by the unique peptide sequence of SAA2.

Conclusions

The results provided proteomics analysis of swine serum due to LPS stimulation and indicated the importance of SAA2, which appears to be unique and may be regarded as a potential clinical diagnostic biomarker of inflammation.
Question Asking During Reading Comprehension Instruction: A Corpus Study of How Question Type Influences the Linguistic Complexity of Primary School Students’ Responses
Authors: Blything Liam P. , Hardie Andrew , Cain Kate
Published: October 2019

The authors examined teachers’ (N = 19) use of different question types during small‐group comprehension instruction for 6–11‐year‐olds (N = 115). The authors tagged the corpus of 40 hours of guided reading sessions to enable computer‐based searches for syntactic forms of questions. Teachers frequently asked high‐challengewh‐ word questions (e.g., “How does that fit in with what you just read?”), and this was more pronounced in schools located in regions of low socioeconomic status, a finding associated with recency of completion of teacher training. Students’ responses were more linguistically complex when teacher questions comprised a high frequency of high‐challenge questions, particularlywh‐ word adverb questions (predominantlywhyandhow). These findings applied across the wide age and ability range of the sample, indicating that high‐challenge questions are effective in small‐group comprehension instruction for students in different age groups and at various levels of reading ability. The authors conclude that teachers benefit from being informed about the effect of various syntactic forms of questions, particularly the nuances ofwh‐ word questions. The findings also highlight the advantages of using corpus search methods to examine the influence of teacher question‐asking strategies during classroom interactions.
Covariate‐adjusted region‐referenced generalized functional linear model for EEG data
Authors: Scheffler Aaron W. , Telesca Donatello , Sugar Catherine A. , Jeste Shafali , Dickinson Abigail , DiStefano Charlotte , Şentürk Damla
Published: October 2019

Electroencephalography (EEG) studies produce region‐referenced functional data in the form of EEG signals recorded across electrodes on the scalp. It is of clinical interest to relate the highly structured EEG data to scalar outcomes such as diagnostic status. In our motivating study, resting‐state EEG is collected on both typically developing (TD) children and children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) aged 2 to 12 years old. The peak alpha frequency (PAF), defined as the location of a prominent peak in the alpha frequency band of the spectral density, is an important biomarker linked to neurodevelopment and is known to shift from lower to higher frequencies as children age. To retain the most amount of information from the data, we consider the oscillations in the spectral density within the alpha band, rather than just the peak location, as a functional predictor of diagnostic status (TD vs ASD), adjusted for chronological age. A covariate‐adjusted region‐referenced generalized functional linear model is proposed for modeling scalar outcomes from region‐referenced functional predictors, which utilizes a tensor basis formed from one‐dimensional discrete and continuous bases to estimate functional effects across a discrete regional domain while simultaneously adjusting for additional nonfunctional covariates, such as age. The proposed methodology provides novel insights into differences in neural development of TD and ASD children. The efficacy of the proposed methodology is investigated through extensive simulation studies.
A review of the use of time‐varying covariates in the Fine‐Gray subdistribution hazard competing risk regression model
Authors: Austin Peter C. , Latouche Aurélien , Fine Jason P.
Published: October 2019

In survival analysis, time‐varying covariates are covariates whose value can change during follow‐up. Outcomes in medical research are frequently subject to competing risks (events precluding the occurrence of the primary outcome). We review the types of time‐varying covariates and highlight the effect of their inclusion in the subdistribution hazard model. External time‐dependent covariates are external to the subject, can effect the failure process, but are not otherwise involved in the failure mechanism. Internal time‐varying covariates are measured on the subject, can effect the failure process directly, and may also be impacted by the failure mechanism. In the absence of competing risks, a consequence of including internal time‐dependent covariates in the Cox model is that one cannot estimate the survival function or the effect of covariates on the survival function. In the presence of competing risks, the inclusion of internal time‐varying covariates in a subdistribution hazard model results in the loss of the ability to estimate the cumulative incidence function (CIF) or the effect of covariates on the CIF. Furthermore, the definition of the risk set for the subdistribution hazard function can make defining internal time‐varying covariates difficult or impossible. We conducted a review of the use of time‐varying covariates in subdistribution hazard models in articles published in the medical literature in 2015 and in the first 5 months of 2019. Seven percent of articles published included a time‐varying covariate. Several inappropriately described a time‐varying covariate as having an association with the risk of the outcome.
Dynamic Assembly of Micellar Mesostructures
Authors: Altay Yigit , Pijpers Imke A. B. , Abdelmohsen Loai K. E. A. , van Hest Jan C. M.
Published: October 2019

Transient structural organization as a result of reversible interactions between individual structures is a significant characteristic of biological systems. Rearrangements of individual cells and cellular populations constantly take place as a result of interaction between different cells, in response to chemical cues. Colloidal systems that operate out‐of‐equilibrium attempt to replicate the interactivity and, in particular, dynamic association displayed in biological systems. To probe such dynamic behavior, we present an out‐of‐equilibrium micellar nanosystem, which is able to engage in assembly and disassembly processes. Utilizing reversible disulfide chemistry via simultaneous oxidation and reduction of thiol‐functionalized micelles results in formation of dynamic mesostructures. Such transient behavior is well‐controlled under non‐equilibrium conditions.
Recent Progress on Inverse and Data Assimilation Procedure for High-Latitude Ionospheric Electrodynamics
Authors: Matsuo Tomoko
Published: October 2019

Polar ionospheric electrodynamics plays an important role in the Sun–Earth connection chain, acting as one of the major driving forces of the upper atmosphere and providing us with a means to probe physical processes in the distant magnetosphere. Accurate specification of the constantly changing conditions of high-latitude ionospheric electrodynamics has long been of paramount interest to the geospace science community. The Assimilative Mapping of Ionospheric Electrodynamics procedure, developed with an emphasis on inverting ground-based magnetometer observations for historical reasons, has long been used in the geospace science community as a way to obtain complete maps of high-latitude ionospheric electrodynamics by overcoming the limitations of a given geospace monitoring system. This Chapter presents recent technical progress on inverse and data assimilation procedures motivated primarily by availability of regular monitoring of high-latitude electrodynamics by space-borne instruments. The method overview describes how electrodynamic state variables are represented with polar-cap spherical harmonics and how coefficients are estimated from the point of view of the Bayesian inferential framework. Some examples of the recent applications to analysis of SuperDARN plasma drift, Iridium, and DMSP magnetic fields, as well as DMSP auroral particle precipitation data are included to demonstrate the method.
Introduction to Spherical Elementary Current Systems
Authors: Vanhamäki Heikki , Juusola Liisa
Published: October 2019

This is a review of the Spherical Elementary Current System or SECS method, and its various applications to studying ionospheric current systems. In this chapter, the discussion is more general, and applications where both ground-based and/or satellite observations are used as the input data are discussed. Application of the SECS method to analyzing electric and magnetic field data provided by the Swarm satellites will be discussed in more detail in the next chapter.
Spherical Elementary Current Systems Applied to Swarm Data
Authors: Vanhamäki Heikki , Juusola Liisa , Kauristie Kirsti , Workayehu Abiyot , Käki Sebastian
Published: October 2019

This chapter describes how the Spherical Elementary Current Systems (SECS) are applied to analyze the magnetic and electric field measurements provided by the Swarm spacecraft. The Swarm/SECS method produces two-dimensional (latitude–longitude) maps of the ionospheric horizontal and field-aligned currents around the satellite paths. If also electric field data are available, similar maps of the electric field and conductances can be obtained.
Local Least Squares Analysis of Auroral Currents
Authors: Vogt Joachim , Blagau Adrian , Bunescu Costel , He Maosheng
Published: October 2019

Multi-spacecraft probing of geospace allows the study of physical structures on spatial scales dictated by orbital and instrumental parameters. This chapter highlights multi-point array analysis methods for constellations of two or three spacecraft such as Swarm, and also discusses multi-scale techniques for the geometrical characterisation of auroral current structures using observations of stationary or weakly time-dependent current structures along the tracks of individual satellites. Linear estimators are based on a least squares approach which is local in the sense that only few measurements around a reference point are considered for the reconstruction of geometrical and physical parameters. Local least squares estimators for field-aligned currents are compared with non-local counterparts and also local estimators based on finite differences. Uncertainties, implementation and other practical aspects are discussed. The techniques are illustrated using selected Swarm crossings of the auroral zone.
Multi-spacecraft Current Estimates at Swarm
Authors: Dunlop Malcolm Wray , Yang J.-Y. , Yang Y.-Y. , Lühr Hermann , Cao J.-B.
Published: October 2019

In this chapter the application of the curlometer technique to various regions of the inner magnetosphere and upper ionosphere and for special circumstances of sampling is described. The basic technique is first outlined, together with the caveats of use, covering: the four-spacecraft technique, its quality factor and limitations; the lessons learnt from Cluster data, together with issues of implementation, scale size and stationarity, and description of the key regions covered by related methodology. Secondly, the application to the Earth’s ring current region is outlined, covering: the application of Cluster crossings to survey the ring current; the use of the MRA (magnetic rotation analysis) method for field curvature analysis; the use of THEMIS (Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Sub-storms mission) three-spacecraft configurations to sample the ring current, and future use of MMS (Magnetospheric MultiScale mission) and Swarm data, i.e. the case of small separations. Thirdly, the application of the technique to the low altitude regions covered by Swarm is outlined, covering: the extension of the method to stationary signals; the use of special configurations and adjacent times to achieve 2, 3, 4, 5 point analysis; the use of the extended ‘curlometer’ with Swarm close configurations to compute 3-D current density, and a brief indication of the computation of current sheet orientation implied by 2-spacecraft correlations. Fourthly, the direct coordination of Cluster and Swarm to check the scaling and coherence of field-aligned currents (FACs) is outlined.
Applying the Dual-Spacecraft Approach to the Swarm Constellation for Deriving Radial Current Density
Authors: Lühr Hermann , Ritter Patricia , Kervalishvili Guram , Rauberg Jan
Published: October 2019

One of the Swarm prime mission goals is the estimation of ionospheric currents. Of particular interest in this context are field-aligned currents (FACs). In order to improve our ability of determining FACs, two of the Swarm spacecraft are orbiting side-by-side separated only by 1.4° in longitude. This close-formation flight enables the application of Ampère’s integral law to magnetic field measurements for estimating radial currents. From experience gained in space we can state that most reliable results are obtained in the auroral region. Here the spacing of the measurement quad and the size of current structures match best. In the vicinity of the poles, close to the orbital crossovers, spacecraft separations become too small for reliable gradient measurements. At low latitudes the separation becomes largest (~150 km). Here certain FAC features, e.g. associated with plasma instabilities and disturbances exist, which cannot be analysed reliably with the dual-SC approach. However, mid-latitude large-scale currents like the inter-hemispheric FACs can be recorded reliably by the Swarm mission. Besides presenting some measurement examples special emphasis is put on the discussion of underlying assumptions and on the limitations of the approach.
Association between cumulative serum urate and development of diabetes type II: the Kailuan Study
Authors: Han Yixuan , Liu Yanying , Liu Xuejun , Yang Wenhao , Yu Ping , Wang Jian , Hu Yuqin , Shu Rong , Song Haicheng , Wang Jierui , Yuan Wei , Liu Bailu , Li Na , Shi Huijing , Yang Wenfang , Li Lina , Hao Yudi , Cui Liufu
Published: October 2019

Objective

To explore whether cumulative serum urate (cumSU) is correlated with diabetes type II mellitus incidence.

Methods

In this study, we recruited individuals participating in all Kailuan health examinations from 2006 to 2013 without stroke, cancer, gestation, myocardial infarction, and diabetes type II diagnosis in the first three examinations. CumSU was calculated by multiplying the average serum urate concentration and the time between the two examinations (umol/L × year). CumSU levels were categorized into five groups: Q1–Q5. The effect of cumSU on diabetes type II incidence was estimated by logistic regression.

Results

A total of 36,277 individuals (27,077 men and 9200 women) participated in the final analysis. The multivariate logistic regression model showed the odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) of diabetes type II from Q1 to Q5 were 1.00 (reference), 1.25 (1.00 to 1.56), 1.43 (1.15 to 1.79), 1.49 (1.18 to 1.87), and 1.80 (1.40 to 2.32), respectively. Multivariable odds ratios per 1-standard deviation increase in cumSU were 1.26 (1.17 to 1.37) in all populations, 1.20 (1.10 to 1.32) for men, and 1.52 (1.27 to 1.81) for women, respectively.

Conclusions

CumSU is a significant risk factor for diabetes type II. Individuals with higher cumSU, especially women, are at a higher risk of diabetes type II independent of other known risk factors.Key Points• Cumulative exposure to serum urate is a significant risk factor for diabetes type II.• Individuals with higher cumSU, especially women, are at a higher risk of diabetes type II.
Intact global cognitive and olfactory ability predicts lack of transition to dementia
Authors: Devanand Davangere P. , Lee Seonjoo , Luchsinger Jose A. , Andrews Howard , Goldberg Terry , Huey Edward D. , Schupf Nicole , Manly Jennifer , Stern Yaakov , Kreisl William C. , Mayeux Richard
Published: October 2019

Introduction

Odor identification deficits characterize Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. We examined if intact performance on brief cognitive and odor identification tests predicts lack of transition to dementia.

Methods

In an urban community, 1037 older adults without dementia completed the 40‐item University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test, which includes the 12‐item Brief Smell Identification Test (B‐SIT). Data from 749 participants followed up for 4 years were analyzed.

Results

In covariate‐adjusted survival analyses, impairment on the Blessed Orientation Memory Concentration Test and B‐SIT each predicted dementia (n = 109), primarily Alzheimer's disease (n = 101). Among participants with intact olfactory (B‐SIT ≥ 11/12 correct) and cognitive (Blessed Orientation Memory Concentration Test ≤ 5/28 incorrect) ability, 3.4% (4/117) transitioned to dementia during follow‐up with no transitions in the 70‐75 and 81‐83 years age group quartiles.

Discussion

Odor identification testing adds value to global cognitive testing, and together can identify individuals who rarely transition to dementia, thereby avoiding unnecessary diagnostic investigation.
Emergency Airways After Himalayan Black Bear Attacks in Bhutan
Authors: Mize Charles Haviland , Dorji Lhab , Zafren Ken
Published: October 2019

Introduction

Although bear attacks on humans are uncommon, the incidence has slowly risen as human populations increasingly encroach on wilderness habitat. In the Kingdom of Bhutan, Himalayan black bear attacks occur regularly. Bears preferentially attack the face, often causing injuries that require surgical airway management. We sought to determine how often patients injured by Himalayan black bears required airway management during initial resuscitation.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of emergency department and admission records of the 3 referral hospitals in Bhutan. We identified all victims of bear attacks in Bhutan who received emergency airway management, including surgical airway management during the period from August 2013 to December 2017.

Results

There were 21 patients who were treated for injuries from bear attacks during the study period. Of these, 12 required emergency airway management. Three patients who required emergency airways (2 intubations, 1 surgical airway) were attacked near a regional referral hospital and received care at that hospital. The remaining 9 patients received care from the helicopter emergency medical services (HEMS) retrieval team (1 intubation, 8 surgical airways).

Conclusions

The use of highly trained HEMS critical care retrieval teams may improve outcomes in critically injured patients who require time-critical airway management in remote areas. Countries such as Bhutan with populations far from emergency and critical care might benefit from the establishment of HEMS critical care retrieval services. HEMS teams providing care while retrieving patients from austere environments should be expert in emergency airway management.
Nonlinear parameter estimation of airship using modular neural network
Authors: Agrawal S. , Gobiha D. , Sinha N.K.
Published: October 2019

The prime focus of this work is to estimate stability and control derivatives of an airship in a completely nonlinear environment. A complete six degrees of freedom airship model has its aerodynamic model as nonlinear functions of angle of attack. Estimating the parameters of aerodynamic model in a nonlinear environment is challenging as it demands an exhaustive dataset that could cover the entire regime of operation of airship. In this work, data generation is achieved by simulating the mathematical model of airship for different trim conditions obtained from continuation analysis. The mathematical model is simulated using predicted parameter values obtained using DATCOM methodology. A modular neural network is then trained using back-propagation and Adam optimisation algorithm for each of the aerodynamic coefficients separately. The estimated nonlinear airship parameters are found to be consistent with the DATCOM parameter values which were used for open-loop simulation. This validates the proposed methodology and could be extended to estimate airship parameters from real flight data.
Estimating the value of forests for provisioning non-timber forest products to market: concepts, approaches, and case studies
Authors: Frey Gregory E. , Chamberlain James L. , Schmidt John Paul
Published: October 2019

We discuss the process of estimating the ecosystem service value (ESV) for provisioning of non-timber forest products (NTFPs) to market, with a focus on the United States. NTFPs are harvested throughout the U.S. for numerous purposes, and those sold in market contribute significantly to household and local economies. While estimates of ESV can aid decision-making related to conservation and management, NTFPs have been generally neglected. We discuss challenges and approaches for prioritizing valuation, quantifying production, measuring costs and benefits, and finding data sources. Many NTFP markets are informal, and market players may have an interest in withholding information. Data about geographic and temporal distribution, production cost, quantity harvested, and price may therefore be limited. In two case studies, we explore the nuances of estimating ESV of forests for medicinal products.
The Error Condition
Authors: Fix Jeremy David
Published: October 2019

The possibility of error conditions the possibility of normative principles. I argue that extant interpretations of this condition undermine the possibility of normative principles for our action because they implicitly treat error as a perfection of an action. I then explain how a constitutivist metaphysics of capacities explains why error is an imperfection of an action. Finally, I describe and defend the interpretation of the error condition which follows.
Canadian Multiple Sclerosis Pregnancy Study (CANPREG-MS): Rationale and Methodology
Authors: Sadovnick A. Dessa , Carruthers Robert , Houtchens Maria , Schabas Alice , Smyth Penelope
Published: October 2019

Background:

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common cause of neurological disability, other than trauma, among young adults of reproductive age. In contrast to the past, today there is very little lag time from clinical onset to diagnosis. Disease-modifying therapies are also now available outside of clinical trials. However, there is very little evidence-based population data to help an individual with MS make informed decisions with respect to reproductive options.

Objective:

The objective of this study is to develop a Canada-wide, prospective population-based registry of women with MS who are either trying to become pregnant and/or have become pregnant.

Methods:

The study represents a “real-world” scenario. Women with MS are invited to participate, regardless of clinical course, therapy, disease duration, and/or disability. The methodology to develop such a registry is very complex making it imperative to understand the design and rationale when interpreting results for clinical purposes.

Results:

This paper is a comprehensive discussion of the study rationale and methodology.

Conclusions:

The study is ongoing, with over 100 potential participants. Numerous future publications are envisioned as the study progresses. The present paper is thus designed to be the key referral paper for subsequent publications in which it will not be possible to provide the necessary detailed information on rationale and methodology.
Sepsis in Traumatic Brain Injury: Epidemiology and Outcomes
Authors: Anderson Dustin , Kutsogiannis Demetrios J. , Sligl Wendy I.
Published: October 2019

Background:

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a leading cause of death and disability. Risk factors for in-hospital mortality include older age, co-morbidity, and TBI severity. Few studies have investigated the role of sepsis in individuals with TBI.

Methods:

We studied adult patients with TBI admitted to intensive care over a 5-year period. Patient characteristics were identified by linking clinical and administrative databases. Charts of individuals with TBI and sepsis were manually reviewed. Predictors of ICU and hospital mortality were identified using logistic regression modeling.

Results:

Four hundred eighty-six individuals with TBI were admitted to intensive care. Sixteen (3.3%) developed sepsis. Pneumonia was the most common source (94%). Staphylococcus aureus was the most common pathogen (75%). ICU lengths of stay (LOS) (12.2 days [interquartile range (IQR) 4.4–23.5] versus 3.7 days [IQR 1.7–8.2]; p < 0.001) and hospital LOS (28.0 days [IQR 11.8–41.4] versus 15.3 days [IQR 5.0–30.9]; p = 0.017) were longer in patients with TBI and sepsis. Sepsis was not associated with ICU (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.51; 95%CI 0.12–2.27; p = 0.38) or hospital (aOR 0.78; 95% CI 0.21–2.96; p = 0.78) mortality, though age (aOR 1.02; 95% CI 1.00–1.04; p = 0.014 for hospital mortality), severe TBI (aOR 3.71; 95% CI 1.52–9.08; p = 0.004 for ICU mortality and 4.10; 95% CI 1.95–8.65; p < 0.001 for hospital mortality), and APACHE II score (aOR 1.19; 95% CI 1.11–1.28; p < 0.001 for ICU mortality and 1.22; 95% CI 1.14–1.31; p < 0.001 for hospital mortality) were.

Conclusion:

Sepsis in patients with TBI was not associated with mortality; however, sepsis was associated with increased health care utilization (ICU and hospital LOS).
Reproducibility of dietary intakes of macronutrients, specific food groups, and dietary patterns in 211 050 adults in the UK Biobank study
Authors: Carter Jennifer L. , Lewington Sarah , Piernas Carmen , Bradbury Kathryn , Key Timothy J. , Jebb Susan A. , Arnold Matthew , Bennett Derrick , Clarke Robert
Published: October 2019

To detect modest associations of dietary intake with disease risk, observational studies need to be large and control for moderate measurement errors. The reproducibility of dietary intakes of macronutrients, food groups and dietary patterns (vegetarian and Mediterranean) was assessed in adults in the UK Biobank study on up to five occasions using a web-based 24-h dietary assessment (n 211 050), and using short FFQ recorded at baseline (n 502 655) and after 4 years (n 20 346). When the means of two 24-h assessments were used, the intra-class correlation coefficients (ICC) for macronutrients varied from 0·63 for alcohol to 0·36 for polyunsaturated fat. The ICC for food groups also varied from 0·68 for fruit to 0·18 for fish. The ICC for the FFQ varied from 0·66 for meat and fruit to 0·48 for bread and cereals. The reproducibility was higher for vegetarian status (κ > 0·80) than for the Mediterranean dietary pattern (ICC = 0·45). Overall, the reproducibility of pairs of 24-h dietary assessments and single FFQ used in the UK Biobank were comparable with results of previous prospective studies using conventional methods. Analyses of diet–disease relationships need to correct for both measurement error and within-person variability in dietary intake in order to reliably assess any such associations with disease in the UK Biobank.
Layer optimized SAR processing and slope estimation in radar sounder data
Authors: Castelletti Davide , Schroeder Dustin M. , Mantelli Elisa , Hilger Andrew
Published: October 2019

Englacial layers in Antarctica and Greenland are indicators of the dynamic, rheological and subglacial configuration of the ice sheets. Airborne radar sounder data is the primary remote sensing solution for directly observing englacial layers and structures at the glacier-catchment to ice-sheet scale. However, when traditional along-track synthetic aperture radar (SAR) processing is applied, steep layers can disappear, limiting the detectability and interpretability of englacial layer geometry. This study provides a reconstruction algorithm to address the problem of destructive phase interference during the radargram formation. We develop and apply a novel SAR processor optimized for layer detection that enhances the Signal-to-Noise ratio (SNR) of specular reflectors. The algorithm also enables the automatic estimation of layer slope. We demonstrate the algorithm using data acquired at the Institute Ice Stream, West Antarctica.
Radiocarbon dating of Chinese Ancient Tea Trees
Authors: Chen Jia , Shen Hongtao , Sasa Kimikazu , Lan Haihui , Matsunaka Tetsuya , Matsumura Masumi , Takahashi Tsutomu , Hosoya Seiji , He Ming , He Yun , Li Zhaomei , Zhao Zhenchi , Liu Mingji , Wei Siyu , Qi Mingli , Zhao Qingzhang , Qin Xiuju , Chen Xinqiang , Jiang Shan
Published: October 2019

The jungles of Linyun and Longlin Autonomous Prefecture, located in the heart of the southwestern Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of China, are home to the oldest tea trees (Camellia sinensis) in the world. In the absence of regular annual rings, radiocarbon (14C) dating is one of the most powerful tools that can assist in the determination of the ages and growth rates of these plants. In this work, cores were extracted from large ancient tea trees in a central Longlin rain forest; extraction of carbon was performed with an automated sample preparation system. The 14C levels in the tree cores were measured using accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) at the University of Tsukuba. These measurements indicated that contrary to conventional views, the ages of trees in these forests range up to ~700 years, and the growth rate of this species is notably slow, exhibiting a long-term radial growth rate of 0.039±0.006 cm/yr. It was demonstrated that 14C analyses provide accurate determination of ages and growth rates for subtropical wild tea trees.
ON THE HYPERSTABILITY OF THE DRYGAS FUNCTIONAL EQUATION ON A RESTRICTED DOMAIN
Authors: SENASUKH JEDSADA , SAEJUNG SATIT
Published: October 2019

We prove hyperstability results for the Drygas functional equation on a restricted domain (a certain subset of a normed space). Our results are more general than the ones proposed by Aiemsomboon and Sintunavarat [‘Two new generalised hyperstability results for the Drygas functional equation’, Bull. Aust. Math. Soc.95 (2017), 269–280] and our proof does not rely on the fixed point theorem of Brzdęk as was the case there. A characterisation of the Drygas functional equation in terms of its asymptotic behaviour is given. Several examples are given to illustrate our generalisations. Finally, we point out a misleading statement in the proof of the second result in the paper by Aiemsomboon and Sintunavarat and propose its correction.
Detrital zircon age and Sr isotopic constraints for a Late Palaeozoic carbonate platform in the lower Rhodope thrust system, Pirin, SW Bulgaria
Authors: Bonev Nikolay , Filipov Petyo , Raicheva Raya , Chiaradia Massimo , Moritz Robert
Published: October 2019

We focused on the Pirin–Pangeon–Thasos carbonate sequence of the Rhodope thrust system, combining Sr isotopes from marble with U–Pb dating of detrital zircons from interlayered schists with outcrop near the villages of Ilindentsi and Petrovo in Bulgaria. The youngest zircon age at Ilindentsi is 266 Ma, i.e. Middle Permian, while the youngest zircon at Petrovo yielded an age of 290 Ma, i.e. Early Permian. Strontium isotopes range from 0.707420 to 0.707653, and are consistent with a Middle Permian maximum depositional age. Middle Permian sedimentation of this carbonate platform most likely occurred along the Eurasian margin rather than the Gondwana margin.
Pattern and determinant factors of birth intervals among Iranian women: a semi-parametric multilevel survival model
Authors: Seyedtabib Maryam , Moghimbeigi Abbas , Mahmoudi Mahmood , Majdzadeh Reza , Mahjub Hossein
Published: October 2019

The interval between successive pregnancies (birth interval) is one of the main indexes used to evaluate the health of a mother and her child. This study evaluated birth intervals in Iran using data from the Iranian Multiple Indicators Demographic and Health Survey (IrMIDHS) conducted in 2010–2011. A total of 20,093 married Iranian women aged 15–54 years from the whole country constituted the study sample. Based on the nature of sampling and the unobserved population heterogeneity for birth intervals in each city and province, a multilevel survival frailty model was applied. Data were analysed for women’s first three birth intervals. The median first and second birth intervals were 30.3 and 39.7 months respectively. Higher education, Caesarean delivery, contraceptive use and exposure to public mass media were found to decrease the hazard rate ratio (HRR) of giving birth. Meanwhile, higher monthly income increased the hazard of giving birth. The results suggest that public mass media can play an effective role in encouraging women to have the recommended birth interval. Furthermore, increasing family income could encourage Iranian couples to decrease the time to their next birth.
Information in Electricity Forward Prices
Authors: Michelfelder Richard A. , Pilotte Eugene A.
Published: October 2019

We examine forward prices in a market where nonstorable inventory exacerbates the influence of seasonal and hourly variation in supply and demand, expected and unexpected, on the level and volatility of spot prices. We find strong evidence, unusual for a commodity, that the difference between contemporaneous forward and spot prices has power to forecast both the spot price change and the risk premium realized at delivery. Our evidence of a time-varying risk premium is consistent with expected hourly and seasonal variation in the needs of producers and retailers of electricity to hedge against extreme spot price decreases and increases, respectively.
ON STOCHASTIC COMPARISONS OF ORDER STATISTICS FROM HETEROGENEOUS EXPONENTIAL SAMPLES
Authors: Yu Yaming
Published: October 2019

We show that the kth order statistic from a heterogeneous sample of n ≥ k exponential random variables is larger than that from a homogeneous exponential sample in the sense of star ordering, as conjectured by Xu and Balakrishnan [14]. As a consequence, we establish hazard rate ordering for order statistics between heterogeneous and homogeneous exponential samples, resolving an open problem of Pǎltǎnea [11]. Extensions to general spacings are also presented.
Effects of high calcium levels on the disturbed extrusion of the second polar body during in vitro fertilization in C3H/He mouse substrains
Authors: Ohta-Takada Y. , Nagao Y. , Kito S.
Published: October 2019

We previously reported that high concentrations (≥3.42 mM) of calcium during in vitro fertilization (IVF) disturbed the extrusion of the second polar body (PBII) in C3H/He inbred mice. In this study, the substrain specificity of this phenomenon was examined under 1.71–6.84 mM calcium concentration in ova from six C3H/He mouse commercially available substrains in Japan. PBII extrusion in ova from J substrains was not affected by calcium concentrations (<10% at any calcium level), but was grossly disturbed at high calcium levels in the ova of other substrains. This result has practical applications for the efficient production of normal zygotes by IVF, therefore contributing to the reduction in the numbers of donor animals for further zygote or embryo manipulation. Care must be taken in choosing IVF medium for particular strains and substrains.
Theatre as ‘An Encounter’: Grotowski’s Cosmopolitanism in the Cold War Era
Authors: He Chengzhou
Published: October 2019

Throughout his career as a theatre director, Jerzy Grotowski encountered many different theatre cultures, which both collided with and were synthesized in his own practices. Confronted with Cold War mindsets and ideological constraints, Grotowski’s theatrical art reflects a kind of cosmopolitan spirit by embracing a common humanity. Analysing Grotowski’s biography alongside his theatrical innovations and theoretical thinking, this article aims to investigate the following three aspects of his theatrical cosmopolitanism: his encounters with different performance cultures in his theatrical concept of ‘poor theatre’, his advocacy of universal ethics in his representative theatrical productionAkropolis, and his belief in world citizenship reflected in his concept of ‘art as vehicle’ from the later years of his career. As a pioneer in the contemporary experimental theatre and performance, Grotowski travelled, lived and worked all over the world, transcending the geographical and ideological divide between the Socialist and the Capitalist blocs during the Cold War. The adverse social conditions of the time did not hinder his creativity, but rather instigated his unmatched artistic talent and his cosmopolitan spirit, both of which are deeply interconnected and integrated.
Cognitive behavioural responses to envy: development of a new measure
Authors: Jordan Cheryl , Vitoratou Silia , Siew Yee , Chalder Trudie
Published: October 2019

Background:

Envy is depicted as motivating destructive desires and actions intended to spoil or destroy that which is envied.

Aim:

To develop a new valid and reliable measure of malicious envy (C-BRES), which included items representing the cognitive, emotional and behavioural responses empirically associated with this emotion.

Method:

A total of 203 adults completed the new 22-item cognitive and behavioural responses to envy scale (C-BRES). Exploratory factor analysis was carried out to test for reliability and internal consistency of the C-BRES. Evidence towards the concurrent construct validity (convergent and discriminant) of the C-BRES was assessed through correlations with the Dispositional envy scale and other measures of psychosocial outcomes empirically linked to envy.

Results:

Factor analysis for categorical data identified five dimensions of envy, namely: injustice, hostility, malicious action tendencies, malicious feelings and behavioural responses. The reliability indices of the five factors and the total scale were satisfactory (>0.85). Evidence towards the concurrent construct validity (convergent and discriminant) of the C-BRES is reported. In particular, envy was associated with higher levels of depression, psychoticism, neuroticism, anger and lower levels of self-esteem and quality of life.

Conclusion:

All findings support the psychometric adequacy of the C-BRES.
The stakeholder-empowering philanthropy of Edward Filene
Authors: Taylor Keith , Goodman Nathan P.
Published: October 2019

Credit unions currently serve over 110 million members in the United States. This is surprising, given the challenges associated with forming cooperatives. This paper explains how grants were used to overcome these challenges and create the modern credit union sector. Edward Filene, a wealthy 20th-century department store owner, provided philanthropic funding and technical expertise to early credit unions, resulting directly in the creation of 26,000 American credit unions over a 45-year period. Filene's leadership helped overcome the various social dilemmas associated with creating cooperatives, reforming institutions, and establishing an institutional framework that enables and supports cooperatives.
Practice theory and change in international law: theorizing the development of legal meaning through the interpretive practices of international criminal courts
Authors: Stappert Nora
Published: October 2019

The question of change has emerged as one of the main conceptual and empirical challenges for International Relations' practice turn. In the context of international law, such a challenge is brought into particularly stark relief due to the significant development of legal meaning through more informal, interpretive avenues, including through the judgments of international courts. This paper develops a framework for theorizing how interpretive legal practices generate normative content change in international law. Specifically, it uses the example of the development of international criminal law through the decisions of international criminal courts to analyze how legal interpretation can lead to normative change in practice. Drawing on interviews conducted with judges and legal officers at the International Criminal Court (ICC), the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY), the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR), and the Special Court for Sierra Leone (SCSL), I analyze how a community of legal practice centered around these courts was able to construct and alter legal meaning in international criminal law, and how such a potential for change was curbed by understandings of the interpretive process and the role of international courts dominant among international lawyers.
The Induced Magnetosphere of Mars: Asymmetrical Topology of the Magnetic Field Lines
Authors: Dubinin E. , Modolo R. , Fraenz M. , Päetzold M. , Woch J. , Chai L. , Wei Y. , Connerney J. E. P. , Mcfadden J. , DiBraccio G. , Espley J. , Grigorenko E. , Zelenyi L.
Published: October 2019

An asymmetrical pileup of the interplanetary magnetic field leads to an additional draping of the field lines in the opposite direction to the motional electric field. Such a draping and the associated magnetic field forces push the ionosphere plasma in the transverse direction opening a passage for an ion trail which contains dense and slowly moving plasma. We found that wrapping of the field lines around Mars starts in the hemisphere pointing in the direction of the motional electric field and propagates to the opposite hemisphere where the cross‐flow component of the draped interplanetary magnetic field changes sign in a broad area accompanied by the formation of loops of closed field lines. Reconnection near Mars accompanied by the generation of plasma vortices imposes serious constraints on the ion dynamics and their escape through the tail. The existence of all these features is confirmed by hybrid simulations.
Quantifying Stratospheric Temperature Signals and Climate Imprints From Post‐2000 Volcanic Eruptions
Authors: Stocker Matthias , Ladstädter Florian , Wilhelmsen Hallgeir , Steiner Andrea K.
Published: October 2019

Small volcanic eruptions and their effects have recently come into research focus. While large eruptions are known to strongly affect stratospheric temperature, the impacts of smaller eruptions are hard to quantify because their signals are masked by natural variability. Here, we quantify the temperature signals from small volcanic eruptions between 2002 and 2016 using new vertically resolved aerosol data and precise temperature observations from radio occultation. We find characteristic space‐time signals that can be associated with specific eruptions. In the lower stratosphere, robust warming signals are observed, while in the midstratosphere also cooling signals of some eruptions appear. We find that the volcanic contribution to the temperature trend is up to 20%, depending on latitude and altitude. We conclude that detailed knowledge of the vertical structure of volcanic temperature impacts is crucial for comprehensive trend analysis in order to separate natural from anthropogenic temperature changes.