bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measurement properties of quality‐of‐life outcome measures for children and adults with eczema: An updated systematic review
Authors: Gabes Michaela , Tischer Christina , Apfelbacher Christian ,   for the quality of life working group of the Harmonising Outcome Measures for Eczema (HOME) initiative
Published: September 2019

Objective

The aim of this updated systematic review was to systematically assess the measurement properties of previously discussed and new quality‐of‐life patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs) in children and adults with eczema using the new COSMIN guideline.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed and EMBASE. Eligible studies reported on measurement properties of quality‐of‐life PROMs for children and adults with eczema. The methodological quality of selected already known PROMs and new evidence identified through the literature search was assessed with the COSMIN Risk of Bias checklist. The adequacy of included PROMs was judged with updated quality criteria, and the quality of evidence of the summarized results was graded. Finally, PROMs were placed in a recommendation category (A‐C).

Results

In total, 133 measurement properties of nine different PROMs were assessed. No PROM could be placed in category A due to a lack of validation studies. Only the DLQI fulfilled the criteria for category C and therefore should not be recommended for use. All other PROMs were placed in category B, that is, they still have the opportunity to be recommended, but need further validation.

Conclusions

Currently, no PROM for quality of life can be recommended for use in children and adults with eczema. Further validation is needed. The DLQI cannot be recommended for future use.
Ultrasound and Anatomical Study of Accessing the Nerves in the Knee by Fascial Planes
Authors: Míguez‐Fernández Mar , Miguel‐Pérez Maribel , Ortiz‐Sagristà Juan Carlos , Pérez‐Bellmunt Albert , Blasi‐Cabus Juan , Möller Ingrid , Martinoli Carlo
Published: September 2019

The fascia is an undifferentiated mesenchymal tissue related to the peripheral nerves. Both can be identified by ultrasound, which is useful when performing peripheral nerve blocks. However, there is no unanimity about the approaching point of each nerve, nor is there a consensus on how to name the appropriate infiltration zone, although the paraneural zone is frequently mentioned. The aims of this study were to determine if ultrasound is accurate for identifying the fascial planes and the paraneural space of the nerves in the knee, infiltrating them, and achieving a correct anatomical diffusion, as well as for establishing access routes to avoid intraneural infiltration. The study was performed in 16 cryopreserved lower extremities of the dissection room of the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona. Nerves of the knee were injected with colorant guided by ultrasound after they were visualized. Correct location of the nerves by ultrasound was achieved in 98.75% of the cases, correct visualization of the needle by ultrasound in 82.5%, the hypoechogenic image around the nerve after infiltration in 82.5%, and a correct paraneural infiltration in 76.25% of cases. With these results, we can conclude that high‐definition ultrasound enables location of the peripheral nerves and adjacent structures as well as the fasciae that surround them, and therefore allows performance of infiltrations in the paraneural spaces.
A single nucleotide polymorphism (−250 A/C) of the GFAP gene is associated with brain structures and cerebral blood flow
Authors: Takahashi Yuta , Takeuchi Hikaru , Sakai Mai , Yu Zhiqian , Kikuchi Yoshie , Ito Fumiaki , Matsuoka Hiroo , Tanabe Osamu , Yasuda Jun , Taki Yasuyuki , Kawashima Ryuta , Tomita Hiroaki
Published: September 2019

Aim

Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), the intermediate filament protein expressed in astrocytes, plays a key role in many aspects of brain function through communication with neurons or blood vessels. A common single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), GFAP –250 C/A (rs2070935), is associated with the transcriptional regulation of GFAP, which can potentially result in the genotype‐specific brain structure. This study aimed to verify the biological effects of the GFAP variants on brain structure and function.

Methods

We investigated the associations between the GFAP variants and magnetic resonance imaging findings, including gray and white matter volumes, white matter integrity, and resting arterial blood flow, from 1212 healthy Japanese subjects.

Results

The GFAP –250 C/A genotype was significantly associated with total gray matter volume, total white matter volume, average mean diffusivity, and mean cerebral blood flow. In voxel‐by‐voxel analyses, the GFAP genotype showed significant associations with the regional gray and white matter volumes in the inferior frontal lobe and corpus callosum, the regional mean diffusivity in the left posterior region, and the regional cerebral blood flow throughout the brain.

Conclusion

This study revealed a common SNP that is significantly associated with multiple global brain structure parameters.
An empirical analysis on the effects of the inflation targeting framework on monetary policy in South Africa
Authors: Chen Weiming , Creamer Kenneth
Published: September 2019

This article examines the impact of the adoption of an Inflation Targeting (IT) framework in 2000 on the conduct of South Africa’s monetary policy. Taylor rule analysis is used to test empirically whether the implementation of IT in South Africa can be shown to have impacted on the conduct of monetary policy. In particular, the article analyses whether the implementation of the IT framework yields the expected changes when comparing the conduct of monetary policy pre and post the adoption of the IT framework. Thereafter, an analysis of term structure of interest rates, which serve as a proxy variable for market expectations, is used to test whether South Africa’s IT framework has resulted in more predictability and transparency in monetary policy conduct. Lastly, the article analyses the impact of the global financial crisis of 2008–2009, the so‐called Great Recession, on the predictability and transparency of monetary policy in South Africa.
Bank Income Diversification, Asset Correlation and Systemic Risk
Authors: Lee Chien‐Chiang , Chen Pei‐Fen , Zeng Jhih‐Hong
Published: September 2019

This paper explores whether the asset correlations among the non‐interest activities of banks are the key causes for enhancing the bank diversification‐systemic risk nexus. Our empirical evidence indicates that banks' income diversification significantly raises systemic risk. After removing those banks with high asset correlations, the effect of individual banks' diversification on banking systemic risk turns insignificant or even inverse. The results show that high asset correlations among banks could introduce bank failures, thereby leading to higher systemic risk in the financial sector.
“It's been a life‐changing experience!” A qualitative study of young adult cancer survivors’ experiences of the coexistence of negative and positive outcomes after cancer treatment
Authors: Hauken May A. , Grue Marthe , Dyregrov Atle
Published: September 2019

The aim of this study was to illuminate the coexistence of negative and positive experiences of young adult cancer survivors after cancer treatment. Using an interpretive descriptive design, 20 young adult cancer survivors were interviewed. The participants stated that the cancer was a life‐changing experience followed by both negative and positive outcomes. The range of negative outcomes was identified in the main theme “the cancer still hampers me,” subdivided into three subthemes “impaired function and changed body,” “intrusion of thoughts and feelings” and “negative impact on relationships.” Simultaneously, the informants experienced positive outcomes identified in the main theme “I have acknowledged what's important in life,” where “a changed perspective,” “personal growth” and “the significance of close relationships” were important facets. The findings indicate that young adult cancer survivors need close and sustained follow up with screening and tailored interventions to minimize negative physical, emotional and social outcomes. In addition, actions that promote positive outcomes such as increasing social support, prioritizing close relationships and facilitating positive changes in values and life goals should be fostered during the entire cancer trajectory.
Proximal Correlates of Suicidal Ideation and Behaviors: A Test of the Interpersonal‐Psychological Theory of Suicide
Authors: Wolford‐Clevenger Caitlin , Stuart Gregory L. , Elledge Lawrence Christian , McNulty James K. , Spirito Anthony
Published: September 2019

Objective

The interpersonal‐psychological theory of suicide hypothesizes proximal causes of suicidal ideation and behaviors; however, past studies have generally tested distal relations. The present study tested the proximal nature of the theory’s hypotheses.

Methods

A repeated‐measures design collected daily survey data on the theory constructs over 90 days from 206 (150 women) college students with previous histories of suicidal ideation. Participants completed 7,342 (39.6%) of the 18,540 surveys sent.

Results

Thwarted belongingness and perceived burdensomeness both positively associated with passive suicidal ideation at the daily level. A statistical trend revealed that perceived burdensomeness was associated with daily active suicidal ideation only at high levels of thwarted belongingness and hopelessness. Active suicidal ideation, but not capability for suicide, was positively associated with suicidal behavior at the daily level.

Conclusions

These results support the theory’s predictions regarding passive and active suicidal ideation, with limited support regarding suicidal behaviors. The proximal associations of the IPTS constructs with daily suicidal ideation suggest areas for potential intervention with suicidal clients.
Characterization of seven new HLA alleles, A*24:14:01:04, A*29:02:01:07, C*06:02:01:37, C*07:830, C*16:162, C*16:01:01:07 and DQA1*01:02:05
Authors: Planelles Dolores , Balas Antonio , Rodríguez‐Cebriá Manuel , Moreno‐Hidalgo Miguel A. , Vicario José L.
Published: September 2019

Seven new HLA alleles were characterized by next generation sequencing in the Spanish population.
HLA‐A*11:01:46, a novel HLA‐A*11 variant, detected in a Chinese individual
Authors: Li Jian‐Ping , Zhang Xu , Lin Feng‐Qiu , Zhang Kun‐Lian , Li Xiao‐Feng
Published: September 2019

HLA‐A*11:01:46 has one synonymous nucleotide change from HLA‐A*11:01:01:01 at nucleotide 807 (codon 245 Alanine).
Helping Preservice Secondary Mathematics Teachers Construct Pedagogical Content Knowledge
Authors: Liang Su
Published: September 2019

This paper intends to shed light on understanding of Mathematical Pedagogical Content Knowledge (MPCK) from an empirical angle. Examples are utilized to explicitly demonstrate how a class activity in a capstone course of preservice secondary mathematics teachers (PSMTs) could be structured for PSMTs to build MPCK.
Multifidelity and Multiscale Bayesian Framework for High-Dimensional Engineering Design and Calibration
Authors: Sarkar Soumalya , Mondal Sudeepta , Joly Michael , Lynch Matthew E. , Bopardikar Shaunak D. , Acharya Ranadip , Perdikaris Paris
Published: September 2019

This paper proposes a machine learning–based multifidelity modeling (MFM) and information-theoretic Bayesian optimization approach where the associated models can have complex discrepancies among each other. Advantages of MFM-based optimization over a single-fidelity surrogate, specifically under complex constraints, are discussed with benchmark optimization problems involving noisy data. The MFM framework, based on modeling of the varied fidelity information sources via Gaussian processes, is augmented with information-theoretic active learning strategies that involve sequential selection of optimal points in a multiscale architecture. This framework is demonstrated to exhibit improved efficiency on practical engineering problems like high-dimensional design optimization of compressor rotor via implementing its multiscale architecture and calibration of expensive microstructure prediction model. From the perspective of the machine learning–assisted design of multiphysics systems, advantages of the proposed framework have been presented with respect to accelerating the search of optimal design conditions under budget constraints.
Properties and Corrosion Resistance of Borided AISI H11 Tool Steel
Authors: Günen Ali
Published: September 2019

In this study, the effect of different boriding parameters on some mechanical properties and corrosion resistance of AISI H11 steel, which is extensively used in hot and cold processing applications, was investigated. The grown boride layers were compact and crack-free for all boriding conditions, and they were detected as single phase (Fe2B) at 800 °C and dual phase (FeB + Fe2B) at 900 and 1000 °C. Depending on the treatment condition, the thickness, surface hardness, and Ra values of the coatings were ranged 10.25–94.5 µm, 1704–2015 HV, and 0.285–0.650 µm, respectively. The corrosion resistance was observed to be related to the phase structure, coating thickness, surface roughness, and the density of the boride layers. There is found to be an increase in the corrosion resistance up to almost 65 times after the boriding process, due to the barrier effect of the grown boride layers (such as B2O3).
Non-Synchronous Aeroacoustic Interaction in an Axial Multi-Stage Compressor
Authors: Fiquet Anne-Lise , Brandstetter Christoph , Aubert Stéphane , Philit Mickael
Published: September 2019

Non-engine order rotor blade vibration is an aeroelastic phenomenon of major interest for compressor designers resulting from excitation of rotor blade modes through aerodynamic instabilities. Indicators for a comparable type of instability, caused by propagating acoustic modes, have been observed in an experimental multistage high-speed compressor by Safran Helicopter Engines. It is intended to understand the cause of these instabilities by combining experimental data and numerical simulations. Unsteady pressure measurements were carried out by case-mounted and stator-mounted transducers. Rotor tip-timing and magnet-coil sensor systems were installed to measure the blade vibrations. Experimental results show non-engine order signatures in the unsteady pressure signal coherent to the shifted frequency of blade vibrations. In the present paper, the waveform of these oscillations is analyzed in detail, showing a dominant propagating acoustic mode interacting with vibrations of rotor 2. The root cause for the non-synchronous oscillations is identified as an acoustic mode that is cutoff downstream of rotor 3. During the test, the mode changes its frequency and circumferential order, affecting the amplitude of associated blade vibrations.
Yoga Practices as an Alternative Training for Physical Fitness in Children With Visual Impairment
Authors: Mohanty Soubhagyalaxmi , Pradhan Balaram , Hankey Alex
Published: September 2019

Physical activities provide fundamental benefits to children’s health and well-being. They are vital for development and healthy life, but participation of children with visual impairment is limited. Herein, the authors report results of a 16-wk yoga program, evaluating its effects on physical fitness in children with visual impairment. Eighty-three children age 9–16 years (12.37 ± 2.19) participated in a 2-arm, single-blind wait-list-controlled study at a residential school in south India. Participants (yoga group 41, controls 42) were assessed on muscle strength, flexibility, endurance, coordination, and respiratory health. Significant improvements in physical fitness were observed after the yoga intervention (Group × Time interactions for right-hand grip strength, p < .001; sit-up, p < .001; sit and reach, p < .001; bilateral plate tapping, p < .001; and peak expiratory flow rate, p < .001). Left-hand grip strength showed main effects of time, although there were no Group × Time interactions. Results demonstrate yoga’s ability to improve a wide range of physical variables in children with visual impairment.
Associations Between Neighborhood Recreation Environments and Adolescent Physical Activity
Authors: Gavand Kavita A. , Cain Kelli L. , Conway Terry L. , Saelens Brian E. , Frank Lawrence D. , Kerr Jacqueline , Glanz Karen , Sallis James F.
Published: September 2019

Background: To examine relations between parents’ perceived neighborhood recreation environments and multiple measures of adolescent physical activity (PA). Methods: Participants (N = 928; age 14.1 [1.4] y, 50.4% girls, and 33.4% nonwhite/Hispanic) and their parents were recruited. Teen moderate to vigorous PA (MVPA) was assessed with 7-day accelerometry. Self-reported total PA, PA near home, and PA at recreation locations were also assessed. Proximity of home to 8 types of recreation facilities was reported by parents. Mixed-model linear regressions relating environments to various measures of PA were adjusted for demographics and neighborhood clustering. Results: Perceiving more availability of recreation facilities around home was related to higher reports of days per week with 60+ minutes of PA (b = 0.153; P < .05), reported PA time near home (b = 0.152; P < .001), PA time at recreation facilities (b = 0.161; P < .001), accelerometer-measured total MVPA (b = 1.741; P < .05), and nonschool MVPA (b = 1.508; P < .01). Adolescents living in lowest quintile of recreation facility availability averaged 27.6 (3.2) minutes per day of total MVPA versus 49.8 (3.5) minutes per day for those living in highest quintile. Conclusions: Adolescents living in neighborhoods that parents reported having more availability of recreation facilities around homes had higher activity across 5 indicators of PA.
Intramural Ice Hockey: Are you Covered?
Authors: Adler Phillip , Shingles René Revis
Published: September 2019

The following article outlines the important steps taken to develop a Standard Operating Procedure for handling injuries during intramural ice hockey at an ice arena. The existing SOP for handling injuries did not include ice hockey and needed to be modified in order to facilitate the circumstances of a new ice rink, a new intramural sport, and an inexperienced staff. When no published guidelines were found while these new procedures were being developed, we created our own which we are sharing.

The SOP development was separated into stages: researching the rules of the sport and the injuries that might occur; examining the facility for emergency exists and determining staffing and responsibilities; the classification of injuries and how to reach and remove the injured athlete; and, staff education, game day responsibilities, and the evaluation of the SOP was performed.
The Washing Machine as a Reservoir for Transmission of Extended-Spectrum-Beta-Lactamase (CTX-M-15)-Producing Klebsiella oxytoca ST201 to Newborns
Authors: Schmithausen Ricarda M. , Sib Esther , Exner Martin , Hack Sylvia , Rösing Claudia , Ciorba Patrick , Bierbaum Gabriele , Savin Mykhailo , Bloomfield Sally F. , Kaase Martin , Jacobshagen Anja , Gemein Stefanie , Gebel Jürgen , Engelhart Steffen , Exner Daniel
Published: September 2019

Washing machines should be further investigated as possible sites for horizontal gene transfer (ESBL genes) and cross-contamination with clinically important Gram-negative strains. Particularly in the health care sector, the knowledge of possible (re-)contamination of laundry (patients’ clothes and staff uniforms) with multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria could help to prevent and to control nosocomial infections. This report describes an outbreak with a single strain of a multidrug-resistant bacterium (
Klebsiella oxytoca
sequence type 201) in a neonatal intensive care unit that was terminated only when the washing machine was removed. In addition, the study implies that changes in washing machine design and processing are required to prevent accumulation of residual water where microbial growth can occur and contaminate clothes.
Chagas Disease Serological Test Performance in U.S. Blood Donor Specimens
Authors: Whitman Jeffrey D. , Bulman Christina A. , Gunderson Emma L. , Irish Amanda M. , Townsend Rebecca L. , Stramer Susan L. , Sakanari Judy A. , Bern Caryn
Published: September 2019

Chagas disease affects an estimated 300,000 individuals in the United States. Diagnosis in the chronic phase requires positive results from two different IgG serological tests. Three enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) (Hemagen, Ortho, and Wiener) and one rapid test (InBios) are FDA cleared, but comparative data in U.S. populations are sparse. We evaluated 500 seropositive and 300 seronegative blood donor plasma samples.
Multicenter Evaluation of Colistin Broth Disk Elution and Colistin Agar Test: a Report from the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute
Authors: Humphries Romney M. , Green Daniel A. , Schuetz Audrey N. , Bergman Yehudit , Lewis Shawna , Yee Rebecca , Stump Stephania , Lopez Mabel , Macesic Nenad , Uhlemann Anne-Catrin , Kohner Peggy , Cole Nicolynn , Simner Patricia J.
Published: September 2019

Susceptibility testing of the polymyxins (colistin and polymyxin B) is challenging for clinical laboratories. The Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Subcommittee evaluated two methods to enable accurate testing of these agents. These methods were a colistin broth disk elution (CBDE) and a colistin agar test (CAT), the latter of which was evaluated using two inoculum volumes, 1 μl (CAT-1) and 10 μl (CAT-10).
Dual Reporting of Clostridioides difficile PCR and Predicted Toxin Result Based on PCR Cycle Threshold Reduces Treatment of Toxin-Negative Patients without Increases in Adverse Outcomes
Authors: Hitchcock Matthew M. , Holubar Marisa , Hogan Catherine A. , Tompkins Lucy S. , Banaei Niaz
Published: September 2019

Nucleic acid amplification tests are commonly used to diagnose
Clostridioides difficile
infection (CDI). Two-step testing with a toxin enzyme immunoassay is recommended to discriminate between infection and colonization but requires additional resources. Prior studies showed that PCR cycle threshold (

C
T

) can predict toxin positivity with high negative predictive value. Starting in October 2016, the predicted toxin result (CT-toxin) based on a validated cutoff was routinely reported at our facility.
Comprehensive Interactome Analysis Reveals that STT3B Is Required for N-Glycosylation of Lassa Virus Glycoprotein
Authors: Zhu Shenglin , Wan Weiwei , Zhang Yanjun , Shang Weijuan , Pan Xiaoyan , Zhang Lei-Ke , Xiao Gengfu
Published: September 2019

Glycoproteins play vital roles in the arenavirus life cycle by facilitating virus entry and participating in the virus budding process. N-glycosylation of GPs is responsible for their proper functioning; however, little is known about the host factors on which the virus depends for this process. In this study, a comprehensive LASV GP interactome was characterized, and further study revealed that STT3B-dependent N-glycosylation was preferentially required by arenavirus GPs and critical for virus infectivity. The two specific thioredoxin subunits of STT3B-OST MAGT1 and TUSC3 were found to be essential for the N-glycosylation of viral GP. NGI-1, a small-molecule inhibitor of OST, also showed a robust inhibitory effect on arenavirus. Our study provides new insights into LASV GP-host interactions and extends the potential targets for the development of novel therapeutics against Lassa fever in the future.
RSFit3000: A MATLAB GUI-based program for determining rate and state frictional parameters from experimental data
Authors: Skarbek Rob M. , Savage Heather M.
Published: September 2019

We present a MATLAB graphical user interface (GUI) software package for analyzing rate and state friction experiments. Called RSFit3000, the software allows users to easily determine frictional parameters by fitting velocity-step and slide-hold-slide events using the aging- and slip-law forms for state variable evolution. RSFit3000 includes features for removing strain hardening or weakening trends from the data, and provides options for using two state variables, applying a weighting function, and treating stiffness as a fitting parameter. Completed fits are conveniently saved in MATLAB structure arrays that contain fitted parameter values with their error intervals, and all information required to reproduce a given fit. The GUI makes the program simple to use, as all fitting tasks are completed via interaction with the interface. Here we describe how to use the software, and illustrate its flexibility and utility by analyzing two sets of synthetic friction data, as well as some previously published experimental data. Although descriptions of rate and state friction fitting routines have been published in the past, RSFit3000 marks the first time a software package for analyzing friction experiments has been described in the literature.
Sacrospinous hysteropexy versus vaginal hysterectomy with uterosacral ligament suspension in women with uterine prolapse stage 2 or higher: observational follow-up of a multicentre randomised trial
Authors: Schulten Sascha F M , Detollenaere Renée J , Stekelenburg Jelle , IntHout Joanna , Kluivers Kirsten B , van Eijndhoven Hugo W F
Published: September 2019

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness and success of uterus preserving sacrospinous hysteropexy as an alternative to vaginal hysterectomy with uterosacral ligament suspension in the surgical treatment of uterine prolapse five years after surgery.

Design

Observational follow-up of SAVE U (sacrospinous fixation versus vaginal hysterectomy in treatment of uterine prolapse ≥2) randomised controlled trial.

Setting

Four non-university teaching hospitals, the Netherlands.

Participants

204 of 208 healthy women in the initial trial (2009-12) with uterine prolapse stage 2 or higher requiring surgery and no history of pelvic floor surgery who had been randomised to sacrospinous hysteropexy or vaginal hysterectomy with uterosacral ligament suspension. The women were followed annually for five years after surgery. This extended trial reports the results at five years.

Main outcome measures

Prespecified primary outcome evaluated at five year follow-up was recurrent prolapse of the uterus or vaginal vault (apical compartment) stage 2 or higher evaluated by pelvic organ prolapse quantification system in combination with bothersome bulge symptoms or repeat surgery for recurrent apical prolapse. Secondary outcomes were overall anatomical failure (recurrent prolapse stage 2 or higher in apical, anterior, or posterior compartment), composite outcome of success (defined as no prolapse beyond the hymen, no bothersome bulge symptoms, and no repeat surgery or pessary use for recurrent prolapse), functional outcome, quality of life, repeat surgery, and sexual functioning.

Results

At five years, surgical failure of the apical compartment with bothersome bulge symptoms or repeat surgery occurred in one woman (1%) after sacrospinous hysteropexy compared with eight women (7.8%) after vaginal hysterectomy with uterosacral ligament suspension (difference−6.7%, 95% confidence interval −12.8% to−0.7%). A statistically significant difference was found in composite outcome of success between sacrospinous hysteropexy and vaginal hysterectomy (89/102 (87%)
v
77/102 (76%). The other secondary outcomes did not differ. Time-to-event analysis at five years showed no differences between the interventions.

Conclusions

At five year follow-up significantly less anatomical recurrences of the apical compartment with bothersome bulge symptoms or repeat surgery were found after sacrospinous hysteropexy compared with vaginal hysterectomy with uterosacral ligament suspension. After hysteropexy a higher proportion of women had a composite outcome of success. Time-to-event analysis showed no differences in outcomes between the procedures.

Trial registration

trialregister.nl NTR1866.
Hyperspectral analysis of algal biomass in northern lakes, Churchill, MB, Canada
Authors: Ghunowa Kimisha , Medeiros Andrew Scott , Bello Richard
Published: September 2019

A hyperspectral approach to quantify algal biomass was studied across 30 shallow ponds in the Hudson Bay Lowlands near Churchill, MB. Normalized difference algal indices (NDAI) were calculated based on hyperspectral measurements of the reflectance collected on shore with a hand-held spectrometer in parallel to estimations of biomass with an in vivo fluorometer designed for benthic algae. Algal biomass and coarse assemblages were differentiated through their spectral reflectance as a demonstration of concept for future upscaling that would be necessary for regional monitoring using remote sensing technology. Results indicated strong agreements between the calculated NDAI for measured reflectance from each pond and that of the isolated benthic zone. Cyanobacteria were the dominant component of the algal community for most ponds. As such, measures of reflectance and use of simple NDAIs may be able to characterize the total biomass of northern ponds. However, the distinction between algal groups may require independent validation of algal assemblages for estimations beyond total biomass. Nonetheless, hyperspectral analysis could provide a strong potential for monitoring northern freshwater systems at a regional scale.
The influence of subchronic co-application of vitamins B6 and folic acid on cardiac oxidative stress and biochemical markers in monocrotaline-induced heart failure in male Wistar albino rats
Authors: Jakovljevic Uzelac Jovana , Djukic Tatjana , Mutavdzin Slavica , Stankovic Sanja , Labudovic Borovic Milica , Rakocevic Jelena , Milic Natasa , Savic Radojevic Ana , Vasic Marko , Japundzic Zigon Nina , Simic Tatjana , Djuric Dragan
Published: September 2019

The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that subchronic co-application of vitamins B6 and folic acid (FA) could affect heart failure (HF) induced by monocrotaline (MCT), with the modulation of oxidative stress parameters and cardiometabolic biomarkers. Biochemical and histomorphometric analyses were assessed in blank solution-exposed controls (C1 physiological saline 1 mL/kg, 1 day, n = 8; C2 physiological saline 1 mL/kg, 28 days, n = 8), MCT-induced HF (MCT 50 mg/kg, n = 8), B6+FA (vitamin B6 7 mg·kg–1·day–1, FA 5 mg·kg–1·day–1; n = 8), and MCT+B6+FA (MCT 50 mg/kg, vitamin B6 7 mg·kg–1·day–1, FA 5 mg·kg–1·day–1; n = 8) in male Wistar albino rats (body mass 160 g at the start). Superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activities, thiol-, carbonyl groups, and nitrotyrosine were determined in cardiac tissue. Echocardiography was performed to confirm MCT-induced HF. The right ventricular wall hypertrophy, accompanied with significant increase of troponin T and preserved renal and liver function, has been shown in MCT-induced HF. However, these effects were not related to antioxidant effects of vitamin B6 and FA, since several parameters of oxidative stress were more pronounced after treatment. In this study, co-application of vitamins B6 and FA did not attenuate hypertrophy of the right ventricle wall but aggravated oxidative stress, which is involved in HF pathogenesis.
A re-examination of the relationship between Steller sea lion (Eumetopias jubatus) diet and population trend using data from the Aleutian Islands
Authors: Fritz L. , Brost B. , Laman E. , Luxa K. , Sweeney K. , Thomason J. , Tollit D. , Walker W. , Zeppelin T.
Published: September 2019

Prey diversity and energy density have been linked to each other and to population trends in many studies of bird and mammal diets. We re-examined these relationships in Steller sea lions (Eumetopias jubatus (Schreber, 1776)) using data collected from the Aleutian Islands, where there has been a strong longitudinal gradient in population trend. Diet diversity and energy density metrics were similar in the western Aleutians, where sea lion counts declined consistently, and in the easternmost Aleutian area, where population trends improved significantly. We compared traditional deterministic diet diversity metrics with diversity scores based on an occupancy model that accounts for differences in sample size and uncertainty in prey group detection. This analysis indicated that there was no significant change in diet diversity over the 23-year study period or any significant differences across the Aleutian Islands. These results are consistent with prey abundance data from nine groundfish bottom trawl surveys conducted over the same period. While diet studies detail what Steller sea lions eat and provide an estimate of their energy intake, they provide only limited information on the energy expended to obtain their food or the consequences of their diet and foraging ecology on individual or population fitness.
Seesaw mechanism and pseudo C-symmetry
Authors: Fujikawa Kazuo , Tureanu Anca
Published: September 2019

It is shown that the specific “charge conjugation” transformation used to define the Majorana fermions in the conventional seesaw mechanism, namely $$(\nu _{R})^{C}=C\overline{\nu _{R}}^{T}$$(νR)C=CνR¯T for a chiral fermion $$\nu _{R}$$νR (and similarly for $$\nu _{L}$$νL), is a hidden symmetry associated with CP symmetry, and thus it formally holds independently of the P- and C-violating terms in the CP invariant Lagrangian and it is in principle applicable to charged leptons and quarks as well. This hidden symmetry, however, is not supported by a consistent unitary operator and thus it leads to mathematical (operatorial) ambiguities. When carefully examined, it also fails as a classical transformation law in a Lorentz invariant field theory. To distinguish it from the standard charge conjugation symmetry, we suggest for it the name of pseudo C-symmetry. The pseudo C-symmetry is effective to identify Majorana neutrinos analogously to the classical Majorana condition. The analysis of CP breaking in weak interactions is performed using the conventional CP transformation, which is defined independently of the pseudo C-transformation, in the seesaw model after mass diagonalization. A way to ensure an operatorially consistent formulation of C-conjugation is to formulate the seesaw scheme by invoking a relativistic analogue of the Bogoliubov transformation.
Accommodating three low-scale anomalies (g − 2, Lamb shift, and Atomki) in the framed Standard Model
Authors: Bordes José , Chan Hong-Mo , Tsou Sheung Tsun
Published: September 2019

The framed Standard Model (FSM) predicts a [Formula: see text] boson with mass around 20 MeV in the “hidden sector,” which mixes at tree level with the standard Higgs [Formula: see text] and hence acquires small couplings to quarks and leptons which can be calculated in the FSM apart from the mixing parameter [Formula: see text]. The exchange of this mixed state [Formula: see text] will contribute to [Formula: see text] and to the Lamb shift. By adjusting [Formula: see text] alone, it is found that the FSM can satisfy all present experimental bounds on the [Formula: see text] and Lamb shift anomalies for [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], and for the latter for both hydrogen and deuterium.

The FSM predicts also a [Formula: see text] boson in the “hidden sector” with a mass of 17 MeV, that is, right on top of the Atomki anomaly [Formula: see text]. This mixes with the photon at 1-loop level and couples thereby like a dark photon to quarks and leptons. It is however a compound state and is thought likely to possess additional compound couplings to hadrons. By adjusting the mixing parameter and the [Formula: see text]’s compound coupling to nucleons, the FSM can reproduce the production rate of the [Formula: see text] in beryllium decay as well as satisfy all the bounds on [Formula: see text] listed so far in the literature.

The above two results are consistent in that the [Formula: see text], being [Formula: see text], does not contribute to the Atomki anomaly if parity and angular momentum are conserved, while [Formula: see text], though contributing to [Formula: see text] and Lamb shift, has smaller couplings than [Formula: see text] and can, at first instance, be neglected there.

Thus, despite the tentative nature of the three anomalies in experiment on the one hand and of the FSM as theory on the other, the accommodation of the former in the latter has strengthened the credibility of both. Indeed, if this FSM interpretation were correct, it would change the whole aspect of the anomalies from just curiosities to windows into a vast hitherto hidden sector comprising at least in part the dark matter which makes up the bulk of our universe.
Parity-odd fragmentation functions
Authors: Yang Weihua
Published: September 2019

Quantum chromodynamics is a non-Abelian gauge theory of strong interactions, in which the parity symmetry can be violated by the nontrivial [Formula: see text]-vacuum tunneling effects. The [Formula: see text]-vacuum induces the local parity-odd domains. Those reactions that occur in these domains can be affected by the tunneling effects and quantities become parity-odd. In this paper we consider the fragmentation process where parity-odd fragmentation functions are introduced. We present the fragmentation functions by decomposing the quark–quark correlator. Among the total 16 fragmentation functions, eight of them are parity conserved, and the others are parity violated. They have a one-to-one correspondence. Positivity bounds of these one-dimensional fragmentation functions are shown. To be explicit, we also introduce an operator definition of the parity-odd correlator. According to the definition, we give a proof that the parity-odd fragmentation functions are local quantities and vanish when sum over all the hadrons [Formula: see text].
Parity-odd parton distribution functions from 𝜃-vacuum
Authors: Yang Weihua
Published: September 2019

Quantum chromodynamics is a fundamental non-Abelian gauge theory of strong interactions. The physical quantum chromodynamics vacuum state is a linear superposition of the [Formula: see text]-vacua states with different topological numbers. Because of the configuration of the gauge fields, the tunneling events can induce the local parity-odd domains. Those interactions that occur in these domains can be affected by these effects. Considering the hadron (nucleon) system, we introduce the parity-odd parton distribution functions in order to describe the parity-odd structures inside the hadron in this paper. We obtain 8 parity-odd parton distribution functions at leading twist for spin-1/2 hadrons and present their properties. By introducing the parity-odd quark–quark correlator, we find the parity-odd effects vanish from the macroscopic point of view. In this paper, we consider the high energy semi-inclusive deeply inelastic scattering process to investigate parity-odd effects by calculating the spin asymmetries.
New exact traveling wave solutions of biological population model via the extended rational sinh-cosh method and the modified Khater method
Authors: Rezazadeh Hadi , Korkmaz Alper , Khater Mostafa M. A. , Eslami Mostafa , Lu Dianchen , Attia Raghda A. M.
Published: September 2019

In this paper, the extended rational sinh-cosh method (ERSCM) and modified Khater method are applied to the biological population model to derive new exact solutions. Moreover, the stability property of some obtained solutions is discussed to show the ability of them for using in the model’s applications. Implementation of the direct algebraic methods, the equations derived by substitution of the predicted solution are solved. It is significant to point out that new traveling wave solutions are found. The present methods are easy to employ and sufficient to determine the solutions.
Implementation of Efficient Intra- and Inter-Zone Routing for Extending Network Consistency in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Prasanth A. , Pavalarajan S.
Published: September 2019

Wireless sensor network (WSN) consists of a large amount of limited battery-powered sensor nodes. In general, energy consumption will be a significant concern for WSN owing to irreplaceable battery constraints of sensor nodes. The zone formation approach could be an adequate data aggregation technique which efficiently minimizes the energy consumption by categorizing sensor nodes into zones. However, the main constraints like zone head (ZH) selection, frequent change of ZH, and multi-hop communication from ZH to the sink have a direct impact on the network consistency of WSN. In this paper, a novel efficient intra- and inter-zone routing scheme has been proposed in order to prolong the network consistency of WSN. In the proposed scheme, the hybrid algorithm is established in which harmony search algorithm incorporates with modified moth flame optimization algorithm. This hybrid algorithm provides the appropriate ZH selection for intra-zone routing that reduces the frequent change of ZH in the network. Furthermore, the path balancing in inter-zone routing is acquired through multi-criteria-based optimal path routing algorithm. The performance results confirm that the proposed scheme enhances the network consistency compared with an existing scheme.
Invariants, singularities and horizons
Authors: MacCallum Malcolm A. H.
Published: September 2019

Local curvature invariants can be used in locating and characterizing singularities and horizons. After outlining the available invariants and their properties, examples of their use in these contexts, and related general results and conjectures, are presented.
Stability analysis of anisotropic universe in nonlinear electrodynamics
Authors: Ama-Tul-Mughani Qanitah , Sharif M.
Published: September 2019

This paper is devoted to analyze the stability of locally rotationally symmetric Bianchi type I model through phase space portrait in the presence of nonlinear electrodynamics. The normalized dimensionless quantities are introduced to construct an autonomous system of equations. The critical points and respective eigenvalues are evaluated for different linear forms of coupling between scalar field models and dark matter to discuss the stability of the cosmos. We conclude that the increase/decrease of stability in the presence of nonlinear electrodynamics completely depends on the choice of interaction terms between matter and dark energy models.
A Hybrid PSO-GA Algorithm for Traveling Salesman Problems in Different Environments
Authors: Khan Indadul , Pal Sova , Maiti Manas Kumar
Published: September 2019

In this study particle swarm optimization (PSO) is modified and hybridised with genetic algorithm (GA) using one’s output as the other's input to solve Traveling Salesman Problem(TSP). Here multiple velocity update rules are introduced to modify the PSO and at the time of the movement of a solution, one rule is selected depending on its performances using roulette wheel selection process. Each velocity update rule and the corresponding solution update rule are defined using swap sequence (SS) and swap operation (SO). K-Opt operation is applied in a regular interval of iterations for the movement of any stagnant solution. GA is applied on the final output swarm of the PSO to search the optimal path of the large size TSPs. Roulette wheel selection process, multi-point cyclic crossover and the K-opt operation for the mutation are used in the GA phase. The algorithm is tested in crisp environment using different size benchmark test problems available in the TSPLIB. In the crisp environment the algorithm gives approximately 100% success rate for the test problems up to considerably large sizes. Efficiency of the algorithm is tested with some other existing algorithms in the literature using Friedman test. Some approaches are incorporated with this algorithm for finding solutions of the TSPs in imprecise (fuzzy/rough) environment. Imprecise problems are generated from the crisp problems randomly, solved and obtained results are discussed. It is observed that the performance of the proposed algorithm is better compared to the some other algorithms in the existing literature with respect to the accuracy and the consistency for the symmetric TSPs as well as the Asymmetric TSPs.
On Scatters of Probability Distributions and OWA Weights Collections
Authors: Jin LeSheng , Mesiar Radko , Yager Ronald
Published: September 2019

This study proposes a novel concept of Scatter for probability distribution (on [0,1]). The proposed measurement is different from famous Shannon Entropy since it considers [0,1] as a chain instead of a normal set. The measurement works easily and reasonably in practice and conforms to human intuition. Some interesting properties like symmetricity, translation invariance, weak convergence and concavity of this new measurement are also obtained. The measurement also has good potential in more theoretical studies and applications. The novel concept can also be suitably adapted for discrete OWA operators and RIM quantifiers. We then propose a new measurement, the Preference Scatter, with its normalized form, the Normalized Preference Scatter, for OWA weights collections. We analyze its reasonability as a new measurement for OWA weights collections with comparisons to some other measurements like Orness, Normalized Dispersion and Hurwicz Degree of OWA operators. In addition, the corresponding Preference Scatter for RIM quantifiers is defined.
Core for Game with Fuzzy Generalized Triangular Payoff Value
Authors: Yu Xiaohui , Zhang Qiang
Published: September 2019

In this paper, we investigate cooperative game with fuzzy payoff value in the generalized triangular fuzzy number directly. Based on the fuzzy max order, we define three kinds of fuzzy cores, i.e., fuzzy strong core, fuzzy non-dominated core and fuzzy weak core. All three kinds of fuzzy cores can be regarded as the generalization of crisp core. Convexity is one of the sufficient conditions for the existence of fuzzy core. By the balanced cooperative game, a necessary and sufficient existence condition of fuzzy strong core is also given. Further, the fuzzy strong core is represented by crisp core, and the relationship between fuzzy strong core and crisp one is shown. For the fuzzy non-dominated core and fuzzy weak core, we show their necessary and sufficient existence condition, and their properties to construct the fuzzy imputations. Hence, the verification of fuzzy non-dominated core and fuzzy weak core become easier. The above three fuzzy cores are all the extensions of crisp core, but their stable conditions are not different. The weak core is least restricted, but is least stable. Hence, we could choose the fuzzy core according the stable neediness of fuzzy cooperative game.
Fractional Matching Preclusion for Restricted Hypercube-Like Graphs
Authors: LÜ HUAZHONG , WU TINGZENG
Published: September 2019

The restricted hypercube-like graphs, variants of the hypercube, were proposed as desired interconnection networks of parallel systems. The matching preclusion number of a graph is the minimum number of edges whose deletion results in the graph with neither perfect matchings nor almost perfect matchings. The fractional perfect matching preclusion and fractional strong perfect matching preclusion are generalizations of the matching preclusion. In this paper, we obtain fractional matching preclusion number and fractional strong matching preclusion number of restricted hypercube-like graphs, which extend some known results.