bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Groundwater Buffers Decreasing Glacier Melt in an Andean Watershed—But Not Forever
Authors: Somers Lauren D. , McKenzie Jeffrey M. , Mark Bryan G. , Lagos Pablo , Ng Gene‐Hua Crystal , Wickert Andrew D. , Yarleque Christian , Baraër Michel , Silva Yamina
Published: November 2019

Accelerating mountain glacier recession in a warming climate threatens the sustainability of mountain water resources. The extent to which groundwater will provide resilience to these water resources is unknown, in part due to a lack of data and poorly understood interactions between groundwater and surface water. Here we address this knowledge gap by linking climate, glaciers, surface water, and groundwater into an integrated model of the Shullcas Watershed, Peru, in the tropical Andes, the region experiencing the most rapid mountain‐glacier retreat on Earth. For a range of climate scenarios, our model projects that glaciers will disappear by 2100. The loss of glacial meltwater will be buffered by relatively consistent groundwater discharge, which only receives minor recharge (~2%) from glacier melt. However, increasing temperature and associated evapotranspiration, alongside potential decreases in precipitation, will decrease groundwater recharge and streamflow, particularly for the RCP 8.5 emission scenario.
Impact Degassing of H2 on Early Mars and its Effect on the Climate System
Authors: Haberle Robert M. , Zahnle Kevin , Barlow Nadine G. , Steakley Kathryn E.
Published: November 2019

Impacts on early Mars can produce H2 and CH4 in the thermal plume. In a thick CO2 atmosphere, collision‐induced absorptions between CO2‐H2 and CO2‐CH4 can boost the greenhouse effect. We construct a simple model of the impact history of Mars and show that for a variety of impactor types and CO2 surface pressures >0.5 bars, postimpact surface temperatures due to H2 alone can exceed the melting point of water for much longer periods of time than from the dissipation of the heat derived from the impactor's kinetic energy. This longer timescale is set by hydrogen escape rather than radiation to space. Cumulatively, the Noachian surface may have been above the melting point of water for millions of years by this mechanism. These greatly extended postimpact warm environments may have played a larger role in the erosion and mineralogy of the surface than previously thought and may partly explain some of the observed fluvial features.
Seasonal Variations of Titan's Brightness
Authors: Creecy Ellen C. , Li L. , Jiang X. , Nixon C.A. , West R.A. , Kenyon M.E.
Published: November 2019

The absolute brightness of astronomical bodies can be represented by the emitted power, which plays important roles in their radiated energy budgets. The Cassini observations include three seasons of Titan, which provides an unprecedented opportunity to examine the seasonal variations of Titan's emitted power. Our analyses show that Titan's emitted power displays different seasonal behaviors between the Northern Hemisphere and the Southern Hemisphere. The global‐average emitted power decreased by 6.8 ± 0.4% during the Cassini period (2004–2017). Such a temporal variation represents the magnitude of the seasonal cycle of Titan's emitted power, which is at least one order of magnitude stronger than the seasonal variation of Earth's emitted power (<0.5%). More importantly, the ~6.8% decrease of the emitted power is much smaller than the ~18.6% decrease of the solar flux from the change of Sun‐Titan distance, implying a significantly dynamical energy budget on Titan.
The Minimum Scale of Grooving on a Recently Ruptured Limestone Fault
Authors: Okamoto K. K. , Brodsky E. E. , Thom C. A. , Smeraglia L. , Billi A.
Published: November 2019

Faults have grooves that are formed by abrasion and wear during slip. Recent observations indicate that this grooving is only a large‐scale feature, indicating brittle behavior has a length scale limit. The connection between this scale and earthquake behavior remains limited because no examples exist from a proven seismogenic fault. Here, we address this problem and analyze differences in this scale between lithologies to further our understanding of the underlying mechanics. This study uses samples from the Mt. Vettoretto fault collected after the Norcia earthquake of 2016. We imaged fault topography with a white light interferometer and 10 μm resolution structure from motion and then calculated a Monte Carlo version of root mean square roughness. We found a minimum scale of grooving of ~100 μm. In comparing this fault to the Corona Heights fault, we find that this minimum grooving scale is consistent with predictions based on material properties.
Increasing Water Vapor in the Stratosphere and Mesosphere After 2002
Authors: Yue Jia , Russell James , Gan Quan , Wang Tao , Rong Pingping , Garcia Rolando , Mlynczak Martin
Published: November 2019

Water vapor (H2O) measurements made by the Sounding of the Atmosphere using Broadband Emission Radiometry (SABER) instrument between 2002 and 2018 and by the Aura Microwave Limb Sounder (MLS) instrument between 2004 and 2018 are analyzed to determine the linear trend and solar cycle response of H2O in the stratosphere and mesosphere. Both SABER and MLS show a rapid global H2O increase of 5–6% per decade in the lower stratosphere after the 2001 drop. The increasing zonal mean H2O at 40°N in SABER and MLS is consistent with the Boulder frost point hygrometer data in the lower stratosphere. The global distribution of SABER and MLS H2O trends are positive at most altitudes and latitudes, and they peak in the tropical lower stratosphere. In the mesosphere the SABER H2O trend is 0.1–0.2 ppmv per decade and the MLS H2O trend is 0.2–0.3 ppmv per decade. The trend and solar cycle response derived from the observations are compared against the Whole Atmosphere Community Climate Model (WACCM). The solar cycle response of H2O from WACCM agrees with SABER and MLS. The linear H2O trend from WACCM does not show the observed increase in the lower stratosphere.
Areal Models for Spatially Coherent Trend Detection: The Case of British Peak River Flows
Authors: Prosdocimi Ilaria , Dupont Emiko , Augustin Nicole H. , Kjeldsen Thomas R. , Simpson Dan P. , Smith Theresa R.
Published: November 2019

With increasing concerns on the impacts of climate change, there is wide interest in understanding whether hydrometric and environmental series display any sort of trend. Many studies however, focus on the analysis of highly variable individual series at each measuring location. We propose a novel and straightforward approach to trend detection, modelling the test statistic for trend at each location via an areal model in which the information across measuring locations is pooled together. We exemplify the method with a detailed study of change in high flows in Great Britain. Using areal models, we detect a statistically relevant signal for a positive trend across Great Britain in the recent decades. This evidence is also found when different temporal subsets of the records are analysed. Further, the model identifies areas where the increase has been higher or lower than average, thus providing a way to prioritise intervention.
Depletion of Heat Producing Elements in the Martian Mantle
Authors: Ojha Lujendra , Karimi Saman , Lewis Kevin W. , Smrekar Suzanne E. , Siegler Matt
Published: November 2019

Heat is primarily generated in planetary interiors by the decay of long‐lived heat producing elements (HPE). Planetary heat flow estimates can thus provide critical insights into the thermal state of a planet and the bulk distribution of the HPE. The lack of appreciable lithospheric deflection in the north polar region of Mars by the weight of the polar ice cap is suggestive of low heat flow. Here we model the deflection of the Martian lithosphere and show that the present‐day mantle heat flow cannot exceed 7 mW m−2 in the north polar region of Mars. Our mantle heat flow estimate is notably lower than the heat flow expected from a chondritic mantle suggesting the Martian mantle to be depleted in HPE. If our result is globally representative, lower levels of heat generation in the planet's mantle may have inhibited widespread late‐stage volcanism on Mars.
Convection‐Diffusion Competition Within Mixed Layers of Stratified Natural Waters
Authors: Sepúlveda Steiner Oscar , Bouffard Damien , Wüest Alfred
Published: November 2019

In stratified natural waters, convective processes tend to form nearly homogeneous mixed layers. However, shear‐driven turbulence generated by large‐scale background flow often rapidly smooths them through mixing with the stratified surroundings. Here we studied the effect of background turbulence on convectively driven mixed layers for the case of bioconvection in Lake Cadagno, Switzerland. Along with microstructure measurements, a diffusive‐shape model for the mixed layers allowed us to define (i) mixed layer thickness and (ii) diffusive transition length. Further microstructure analysis was performed allowing estimation of convective turbulence in the mixed layer and shear‐driven turbulence quantified by eddy diffusion in their surroundings. Based upon these results, we propose a Péclet number scaling that relates mixed layer shape to the opposing effects of convection and diffusion. We further validate this quantitative approach by applying it to two other distinct convective systems representative of double‐diffusive convection and radiatively driven under‐ice convection.
Diurnal Cycle of IMERG V06 Precipitation
Authors: Tan Jackson , Huffman George J. , Bolvin David T. , Nelkin Eric J.
Published: November 2019

This study demonstrates the maturing ability of the half‐hourly precipitation estimates from the Integrated Multi‐satellitE Retrievals for GPM (IMERG) for use in global analyses of the diurnal cycle. The refined intercalibration and interpolation between the sensors in V06 leads to greater consistency in the precipitation retrievals over different hours of the day. Evaluation against ground measurements suggests a slight lag in the diurnal phase of only +0.59 hr. We demonstrate the diurnal cycle over different regions around the globe, including the Maritime Continent, where accurate representation of precipitation variability in global models remains a challenge. Using examples over Singapore, Bangladesh, and Lake Victoria, we reveal the intricate interplay between diurnal and seasonal variability. This study demonstrates the unprecedented capability of IMERG in capturing the diurnal cycle of precipitation globally, potentially advancing our understanding in regions of sparse ground measurements and supporting improvements in its representation in global models.
Unprecedented Northern Hemisphere Tropical Cyclone Genesis in 2018 Shaped by Subtropical Warming in the North Pacific and the North Atlantic
Authors: Wang Chao , Wang Bin , Cao Jian
Published: November 2019

Northern Hemisphere tropical cyclone (TC) genesis (TCG) frequency in June‐September of 2018 reached a record high since 1965. This unprecedented TCG was mainly driven by the North Pacific (NP) and the subtropical North Atlantic (NA). TCs in the western North Pacific (WNP) predominately took a northward‐recurving track, resulting in the highest number of named storm days in the subtropical WNP on record. TCs in the eastern North Pacific propagated anomalously westward with three Category 4–5 hurricanes reaching the central North Pacific. The unprecedented TCG in the NP was caused by a persistent weakening of the NP subtropical high that was tightly coupled with the subtropical NP sea surface temperature (SST) warming. In the NA, enhanced TCG was mainly found in the subtropics owing to a favorable large‐scale environment forced by subtropical SST warming. The result here has important implications for understanding variability in TC activity on the hemisphere‐scale.
Looking Up or Looking Down? Hydrologic and Atmospheric Perspectives on Precipitation and Evaporation Variability
Authors: Yin Jun , Porporato Amilcare
Published: November 2019

Precipitation and evapotranspiration, respectively, an input and an output for hydrologists and ocean scientists, but the opposite for meteorologists, quantify the intensity of vertical water exchange between land, ocean, and the atmosphere. The interesting paper by Dagan et al. (2019,https://doi.org/10.1029/2019GL084173) analyzed important constraints between such fluxes as a function of spatial scales. This commentary aims to provide a complementary, hydrologic point of view, emphasizing how their intermittency at different spatial and temporal scales is essentially related to the contrasting water storage capacities of the atmosphere and the Earth's surface. Alterations of such storage due to global warming and land cover change are a challenge for the geophysical community and beyond.
Strong Diffusion of Energetic Electrons by Equatorial Chorus Waves in the Midnight‐to‐Dawn Sector
Authors: Kasahara S. , Miyoshi Y. , Kurita S. , Yokota S. , Keika K. , Hori T. , Kasahara Y. , Matsuda S. , Kumamoto A. , Matsuoka A. , Seki K. , Shinohara I.
Published: November 2019

Drastic variations of radiation‐belt/ring current electrons are the result of competing processes of acceleration, transport, and loss. For subrelativistic energetic electrons (10–100 keV), one of the promising loss mechanisms is precipitation into the atmosphere due to pitch angle scattering by whistler mode chorus waves. The efficiency of the scattering has yet to be quantified by direct observations, however. Using in situ measurements by the ERG (Arase) spacecraft in the midnight‐to‐dawn sector at and around the magnetic equator, we demonstrate that the full filling of energetic electron loss cones occurs commonly, associated with typical‐amplitude (greater than 50 pT) chorus waves. The spatial distribution of the loss cone filling indicates that the efficient scattering is limited to |MLAT|< 10°.
Intermodel Spread in the Northern Hemisphere Stratospheric Polar Vortex Response to Climate Change in the CMIP5 Models
Authors: Wu Yutian , Simpson Isla R. , Seager Richard
Published: November 2019

This study investigates the intermodel spread of the Northern Hemisphere winter stratospheric polar vortex change to anthropogenic greenhouse gas increase in Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5 (CMIP5) models. Previous proposed mechanisms for the polar vortex response to climate change, based on analysis of atmosphere‐only models, are found inadequate to explain the intermodel spread in the coupled models in CMIP5. It is further found that resolved stationary wave driving in the polar vortex region accounts for less than 30% of the intermodel spread, and intermodel differences in both the vertical and meridional wave propagation contribute to differences in the wave driving. The results call for a detailed budget analysis of the stratospheric circulation response by including both the resolved and parameterized processes through the Dynamics and Variability Model Intercomparison Project. The results also highlight a need for an improved theoretical understanding of future projected polar vortex change and intermodel spread.
Morphodynamic Resilience of Intertidal Mudflats on a Seasonal Time Scale
Authors: van der Wegen M. , Roelvink J. A. , Jaffe B. E.
Published: November 2019

Intertidal mudflats are morphodynamic features present in many estuaries worldwide. Often located between vegetated shores and deep channels they comprise valuable ecosystems and serve to protect the hinterland by attenuating waves. Although mudflats are persistently present on yearly to decadal time scales, little is known on their morphodynamic adaptation to short‐term variations in forcing such as storms, spring‐neap tidal cycles, and sediment supply. This study aims to explore the morphodynamic resilience of mudflats to seasonal variations in forcing. First, we compare transects observed in South Bay, California, at 3‐ to 6‐monthly intervals. Second, we present the results of a process‐based, morphodynamic profile model (Mflat). Mflat is an open source, Matlab code that describes both cross‐shore and alongshore tidal hydrodynamics as well as a stationary wave model. An advection‐diffusion equation solves sediment transport while bed level changes occur by the divergence of the sediment transport field. Mflat reproduces the observed South San Francisco Bay profile in equilibrium with significant skill. Short‐term variations in hydrodynamic forcing and sediment characteristics disturb the profile mainly at the channel‐shoal edge. The modeled profile disturbance is consistent with observations. The modeled profile is remarkably resilient since it recovers to the equilibrium profile within weeks to months. The model results suggest that 3‐monthly observation intervals are probably too long to discriminate processes responsible for the profile disturbance. These processes may include variations in sediment supply, mudflat erodibility, and wave action as well as the spring‐neap tidal cycle.
Sperm DNA Methylation Epimutation Biomarkers for Male Infertility and FSH Therapeutic Responsiveness
Authors: Luján Saturnino , Caroppo Ettore , Niederberger Craig , Arce Joan-Carles , Sadler-Riggleman Ingrid , Beck Daniel , Nilsson Eric , Skinner Michael K.
Published: November 2019

Male factor infertility is increasing and recognized as playing a key role in reproductive health and disease. The current primary diagnostic approach is to assess sperm quality associated with reduced sperm number and motility, which has been historically of limited success in separating fertile from infertile males. The current study was designed to develop a molecular analysis to identify male idiopathic infertility using genome wide alterations in sperm DNA methylation. A signature of differential DNA methylation regions (DMRs) was identified to be associated with male idiopathic infertility patients. A promising therapeutic treatment of male infertility is the use of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) analogs which improved sperm numbers and motility in a sub-population of infertility patients. The current study also identified genome-wide DMRs that were associated with the patients that were responsive to FSH therapy versus those that were non-responsive. This novel use of epigenetic biomarkers to identify responsive versus non-responsive patient populations is anticipated to dramatically improve clinical trials and facilitate therapeutic treatment of male infertility patients. The use of epigenetic biomarkers for disease and therapeutic responsiveness is anticipated to be applicable for other medical conditions.
Boosting Ultra-Fast Charge Battery Performance: Filling Porous nanoLi4Ti5O12 Particles with 3D Network of N-doped Carbons
Authors: Daigle Jean-Christophe , Asakawa Yuichiro , Beaupré Mélanie , Gariépy Vincent , Vieillette René , Laul Dharminder , Trudeau Michel , Zaghib Karim
Published: November 2019

Lithium titanium oxide (Li4Ti5O12)-based cells are a promising technology for ultra-fast charge-discharge and long life-cycle batteries. However, the surface reactivity of Li4Ti5O12 and lack of electronic conductivity still remains problematic. One of the approaches toward mitigating these problems is the use of carbon-coated particles. In this study, we report the development of an economical, eco-friendly, and scalable method of making a homogenous 3D network coating of N-doped carbons. Our method makes it possible, for the first time, to fill the pores of secondary particles with carbons; we reveal that it is possible to cover each primary nanoparticle. This unique approach permits the creation of lithium-ion batteries with outstanding performances during ultra-fast charging (4C and 10C), and demonstrates an excellent ability to inhibit the degradation of cells over time at 1C and 45 °C. Furthermore, using this method, we can eliminate the addition of conductive carbons during electrode preparation, and significantly increase the energy density (by weight) of the anode.
Hierarchical growth and morphological control of ordered Cu–Au alloy arrays with high surface enhanced Raman scattering activity
Authors: Wang Zhezhe , Liu Ruihua , Feng Zhuohong , Lin Lin , Xie Rongrong , Li Jiabing , Liu Heguang , Huang Feng , Zheng Zhiqiang
Published: November 2019

Low-cost Cu–Au alloy hierarchical structures are fabricated by coelectrodeposition, and the highest SERS activity is obtained when the atom ratio of Cu and Au is about 88 : 12.
Hierarchical NiMn2O4/rGO composite nanosheets decorated with Pt for low-temperature formaldehyde oxidation
Authors: Wang Yuanyuan , Ye Jiawei , Jiang Chuanjia , Le Yao , Cheng Bei , Yu Jiaguo
Published: November 2019

Graphene nanomaterials can improve the textural properties and surface reactivity of metal-based HCHO oxidation catalysts, leading to improved room-temperature HCHO oxidation performance.
Automatic mutual information noise omission (AMINO): generating order parameters for molecular systems
Authors: Ravindra Pavan , Smith Zachary , Tiwary Pratyush
Published: November 2019

AMINO uses techniques from information theory to generate new order parameters for molecular dyanmics simulations.
High-performance solid-state Zn batteries based on a free-standing organic cathode and metal Zn anode with an ordered nano-architecture
Authors: Xiao Xingchi , Liu Wenjie , Wang Kai , Li Chen , Sun Xianzhong , Zhang Xiong , Liu Wenhao , Ma Yanwei
Published: November 2019

A solid-state Zn battery based on a free-standing ordered organic cathode, PAAM-ZnSO4 gel electrolyte and metal Zn nanoarray anode is developed, delivering high capacity, good capacity retention and excellent flexibility under different bending states.
Pyrolysis of mixtures of methane and ethane: activation of methane with the aid of radicals generated from ethane
Authors: Ogihara Hitoshi , Tajima Hiroki , Kurokawa Hideki
Published: November 2019

Inert CH4 molecules can be activated and incorporated into pyrolysis products with the aid of radicals generated by pyrolysis of C2H6.
Die Hautprävention in der BGN aus medizinischer Perspektive
Authors: Müller M. , Sautter A. , Steen T. , Stadeler M. , Stark U.
Published: November 2019

Der BGN als Unfallversicherungsträger für Beschäftigte im Nahrungsmittel- und Gastgewerbe werden aktuell jährlich etwa 2000 berufsbedingte Hauterkrankungen gemeldet. Beschäftigte in der Gastronomie sind dabei am häufigsten betroffen, gefolgt von Bäckern, Konditoren, Backwarenverkäufern, Beschäftigten im Bereich der Fleischwirtschaft und in der Lebensmittel- und Getränkeindustrie. Als Hauptbelastungsfaktoren für die Haut an Händen und Unterarmen gelten Feuchtarbeit sowie Kontakt zu Nahrungsmitteln. Kumulativ-subtoxische Kontaktdermatitis, atopisches Ekzem und deutlich seltener auch die allergische Kontaktdermatitis sind die häufigsten Primärdiagnosen im Hautarztbericht. Wird seitens der Bezirksverwaltung der BGN ein Heilbehandlungsauftrag erteilt, erfolgt zeitnah ein telefonisches Erstprofiling mit dem Betroffenen. Die Teilnahme an einem eintägigen Haut-Basisseminar wird obligatorisch angeboten. Bei schweren berufsbedingten Hauterkrankungen oder langwierigem, chronisch rezidivierendem Verlauf erfolgt je nach Region die Einbeziehung des beratenden Hautarztes der BGN, die Vorstellung in einem speziellen Hautschutzzentrum, die Teilnahme am regionalen Hautpräventionsprogramm der BGN bzw. eine individuelle Tertiärpräventionsmaßnahme (TIP).
Der Schlaganfall als Risikofaktor für osteoporotische Frakturen
Authors: Benzinger Petra , Bauer Jürgen M
Published: November 2019

Im Rahmen der demographischen Entwicklung in Deutschland nimmt die Zahl der Personen, welche einen Schlaganfall erleiden, stetig zu. Überlebende eines Schlaganfalls haben im Vergleich zur altersgleichen Bevölkerung ein erhöhtes Risiko, eine Fragilitätsfraktur zu erleiden. Für Personen über 65 Jahre mit Schlaganfall wurde eine Inzidenz von 33,6 Frakturen pro 1000 Personenjahre berechnet im Vergleich zu 21,4 pro 1000 Personenjahre in der altersgleichen Bevölkerung. Ursachen sind hier die erhöhte Sturzneigung sowie eine Verminderung der Knochendichte auf der paretischen Seite. Das Risiko für eine sturzbedingte Fraktur ist dabei abhängig von der wiedererlangten Selbständigkeit. Personen mit anhaltendem Pflegebedarf weisen daher ein deutlich erhöhtes Frakturrisiko auf. In Ermangelung einer ausreichenden spezifischen Evidenz für diese Risikogruppe sollten die Empfehlungen zur Sturzprävention für ambulant lebende Menschen berücksichtigt werden. Hier ist insbesondere ein Gleichgewichtstraining in Kombination mit einem Krafttraining anzuraten. Die Indikation zu einer Basisdiagnostik nach DVO Leitlinie sollte unter besonderer Berücksichtigung des Sturzrisikos überprüft werden. Bei Personen mit einer residuellen Hemiparese sollte die DXA Messung auf der paretischen Seite erfolgen.
Patient-Specific Explanations for Predictions of Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Tajgardoon Mohammadamin , Samayamuthu Malarkodi J. , Calzoni Luca , Visweswaran Shyam
Published: November 2019

Background Machine learning models that are used for predicting clinical outcomes can be made more useful by augmenting predictions with simple and reliable patient-specific explanations for each prediction.

Objectives This article evaluates the quality of explanations of predictions using physician reviewers. The predictions are obtained from a machine learning model that is developed to predict dire outcomes (severe complications including death) in patients with community acquired pneumonia (CAP).

Methods Using a dataset of patients diagnosed with CAP, we developed a predictive model to predict dire outcomes. On a set of 40 patients, who were predicted to be either at very high risk or at very low risk of developing a dire outcome, we applied an explanation method to generate patient-specific explanations. Three physician reviewers independently evaluated each explanatory feature in the context of the patient's data and were instructed to disagree with a feature if they did not agree with the magnitude of support, the direction of support (supportive versus contradictory), or both.

Results The model used for generating predictions achieved a F1 score of 0.43 and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) of 0.84 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.81–0.87). Interreviewer agreement between two reviewers was strong (Cohen's kappa coefficient = 0.87) and fair to moderate between the third reviewer and others (Cohen's kappa coefficient = 0.49 and 0.33). Agreement rates between reviewers and generated explanations—defined as the proportion of explanatory features with which majority of reviewers agreed—were 0.78 for actual explanations and 0.52 for fabricated explanations, and the difference between the two agreement rates was statistically significant (Chi-square = 19.76, p-value < 0.01).

Conclusion There was good agreement among physician reviewers on patient-specific explanations that were generated to augment predictions of clinical outcomes. Such explanations can be useful in interpreting predictions of clinical outcomes.
Potential Benefits of Laparoscopic Repair of Duodenal Atresia: Insights from a Retrospective Comparative Study
Authors: Sidler Martin , Djendov Florin , Curry Joe I. , Blackburn Simon , Giuliani Stefano , Eaton Simon , Mullassery Dhanya , Cross Kate M. , De Coppi Paolo
Published: November 2019

Introduction Congenital duodenal obstruction (CDO) repair can be performed open or laparoscopically. We aimed to determine the potential benefit of laparoscopic repair regarding tolerance of enteral feeding, postoperative pain, hospital stay, and complication rate.

Materials and Methods In a single-center retrospective cohort study, we compared neonates with isolated CDO operated open versus laparoscopically from 2010 to 2019. No transanastomotic tubes were used, and anastomoses were created in a side-to-side fashion in all cases. An early feeding policy is applied for all cases operated at our institution. Statistical comparison was performed using the Mann–Whitney's test or Fisher's exact test where appropriate.

Results Forty-one patients analyzed were similar regarding body weight, gestational age, and proportion of patients with trisomy 21. Median follow-up was 21 months. Four (20%) out of 20 laparoscopic procedures started laparoscopically were converted to open. Comparing the 21 open with the 16 laparoscopically completed patients, median anesthetic duration was shorter by 18% in the open versus laparoscopic completed group (218 vs. 179 minutes, respectively; p = 0.025). Median postoperative time to full enteral feeds was shorter by 4 days in the first group (7 vs. 11 days, respectively; p = 0.028). In accordance, the median duration of parenteral nutrition (PN) was less than half in the laparoscopic completed compared with the open group (5 vs. 11.5 days, respectively; p = 0.031). Postoperative opioids were required for only half the duration in the laparoscopically completed group compared with open (2 vs. 4 days, respectively; p = 0.026). Outcomes such as length of stay, the occurrence of strictures or adhesions requiring reintervention, or line sepsis were similar in both groups.

Conclusion Patients undergoing laparoscopic CDO repair at our institution benefited from shorter time to full enteral feeds, and reduced the need for PN as well as postoperative pain medication.
Asthma Medication Use in Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Survivors: A Retrospective Population Level Data Analysis
Authors: Levesque Matthew , Lum Min Suyin A. , Morris Melanie I. , Shawyer Anna C. , Keijzer Richard
Published: November 2019

Introduction The purpose of this study was to determine if congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) survivors had worse long-term respiratory outcomes compared with age-matched controls, as measured by inhaled bronchodilator use, inhaled steroid use, and asthma-related physician visits.

Materials and Methods We performed a retrospective case-control study of infants with isolated CDH from 1991 to 2013. The primary outcome measures were inhaled bronchodilator prescriptions, inhaled steroid prescriptions, and asthma-related physician visits between 0 and 5 years of age and between 5 and 10 years of age. Subgroup analysis compared the same outcomes for CDH patients grouped by: birth weight, gestational age, side of defect, defect size, liver herniation, hernia sac, and pulmonary hypertension.

Results Fifty-six patients with CDH and 753 age-matched controls met the inclusion criteria for the 0 to 5 years of age analysis. Between 0 and 5 years of age, more CDH survivors were prescribed an inhaled bronchodilator (odds ratio [OR] = 2.47[1.38–4.48], p = 0.001) and inhaled steroid (OR = 2.03[1.07–3.74], p = 0.03), and had an asthma-related physician visit (OR = 1.92[1.00–3.56], p = 0.04). Thirty-eight cases and 491 controls met the inclusion criteria for the 5 to 10 years of age analysis. Between 5 and 10 years of age, CDH survivors were not more likely to be prescribed inhaled bronchodilators, inhaled steroids, or have an asthma-related physician visit. Among the CDH patients, we did not find a clinical characteristic associated with increased inhaled bronchodilator or steroid prescriptions at any age.

Conclusion A history of CDH is associated with higher rates of inhaled bronchodilator prescriptions, inhaled steroid prescriptions, and asthma-related physician visits from 0 to 5 years of age compared with age-matched controls. However, this difference resolves by 5 to 10 years of age.
Pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma in a case of tuberous sclerosis
Authors: Martin Arvind G. , Singh Mutum Samarendra , Idris Badrisyah , Abdullah Jafri Malin
Published: November 2019

Tuberous sclerosis is a known phakomatosis and the associated finding of a subependymal giant cell astrocytoma is common with this disorder. A case of tuberous sclerosis with a finding not previously reported, i.e. that of a pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma, is presented here.
Diagnosis and Management of Pediatric Patients with Intussusception
Authors: Smith Caitlin A. , Maloney Ezekiel
Published: November 2019

Intussusception is one of the most common cause of bowel obstruction in infancy. While surgical intervention is sometimes needed, the primary modality for the reduction of intussusception is pneumatic or air enema. This is highly successful in the reduction of ileocolic intussusception with 90% success rate. Here we review the presentation, pathophysiology, appropriate radiographic studies and findings, and fluoroscopic reduction technique.
Tuft Cells: A New Player in Hirschsprung's Disease
Authors: O'Donnell Anne Marie , Nakamura Hiroki , Puri Prem
Published: November 2019

Introduction “Tuft” cells, also known as brush or caveolated cells, are characteristically fusiform shaped, with a distinct apical “tuft” of microvilli extending into the lumen. Double cortin-like kinase 1 (DCLK1) is a microtubule kinase and is a specific marker of intestinal tuft cells. DCLK1-positive tuft cells have been shown to play a key role in gastrointestinal chemosensation, inflammation, and neurotransmission. DCLK1 and Choline acetyltransferase (ChAT), the enzymes responsible for acetylcholine production, are reported to be coexpressed within the gastrointestinal tract. We designed this study to investigate the hypothesis that DCLK1 gene expression is altered in Hirschsprung's disease (HSCR).

Materials and Methods HSCR tissue specimens (n = 6) were collected at the time of pull-through surgery, while control samples were obtained at the time of colostomy closure in patients with imperforate anus (n = 6). Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) analysis was undertaken to quantify DCLK1 gene expression, and immunolabeling of DCLK1-positive tuft cells was visualized using confocal microscopy.

Results qRT-PCR analysis revealed significant downregulation of the DCLK1 gene in both aganglionic and ganglionic HSCR specimens compared with controls (p < 0.05). Confocal microscopy revealed DCLK1-positive tuft cell expression within the colonic mucosa, with a reduction in expression in both aganglionic and ganglionic HSCR colon compared with controls.

Conclusion DCLK1 is significantly downregulated in HSCR colon, suggesting a role for tuft cells in cholinergic neurotransmission of the distal colon. The marked decrease in DCLK1 expression within ganglionic specimens highlights the physiologically abnormal nature of this segment in HSCR patients.
Accelerated Intestinal Epithelial Cell Turnover Correlates with Stimulated BMP Signaling Cascade following Intestinal Ischemia–Reperfusion in a Rat
Authors: Ben-Shahar Yoav , Abassi Zaid , Kreizman Shefer Hila , Pollak Yulia , Bhattacharya Udayan , Sukhotnik Igor
Published: November 2019

Introduction Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are a family of proteins that regulate proliferation and differentiation of intestinal epithelial cells. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the role of BMP signaling following intestinal ischemia–reperfusion (IR) in a rat model.

Materials and Methods Male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four experimental groups: Sham-24 and Sham-48 rats underwent laparotomy and were sacrificed 24 or 48 hours later, respectively; IR-24 and IR-48 rats underwent occlusion of superior mesenteric artery and portal vein for 30 minutes followed by 24 or 48 hours of reperfusion, respectively. Enterocyte proliferation and apoptosis were determined at sacrifice. BMP-related genes and protein expression were determined using real-time polymerase chain reaction, Western blot, and immunohistochemistry for 48 hours followed by IR.

Results IR rats demonstrated a significant increase in BMP2 (twofold increase, p < 0.05), BMP4 (sevenfold increase), STAT3 (70% increase), BMPR1 (70% increase) messenger ribonucleic acid levels in jejunum and was accompanied by a significant increase in BMP2 and BMP4 protein levels in jejunum (sixfold increase) (Western blot) and upward increase in the number of BMP-positive cells (by immunohistochemistry) in jejunal (48% increase) and ileal (56% increase) villi compared with Sham-48 animals. Elevation in BMP2 and BMP4 levels was associated with increased rates of cell proliferation and increased cell apoptosis.

Conclusion Forty-eight hours following intestinal IR in rats, BMP signaling pathway was stimulated. The increase in BMP signaling pathway activity correlates with accelerated cell turnover.
Efficacy of PARP Inhibitors in the Treatment of Ovarian Cancer: A Literature-Based Review
Authors: Goswami Vikas , Koyyala Venkata Pradeep Babu , Goyal Sumit , Sharma Manish , Goel Varun , Dhamne Nilesh , Maheshwari Udip , Sharma Atul
Published: November 2019

Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors are a unique class of therapeutic agents that focus on tumors with deficiencies in the homologous recombination DNA repair mechanism. Genomic instability outlines high-grade serous ovarian cancer, with 50% of all tumors displaying defects in the important DNA repair mechanism of homologous recombination. Earlier research studies have demonstrated considerable efficiency for PARP inhibitors in patients with germ line breast-related cancer antigens 1 and 2 (BRCA-1/BRCA-2) mutations. It has also been observed that BRCA wild-type patients with other defects in the homologous recombination repair mechanism get benefited from this therapy. Companion homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) scores are being developed to guide the selection of patients that are most likely to benefit from PARP inhibition. The selection of PARP inhibitor is mainly dependent upon the number of prior therapies and the presence of a BRCA mutation or HRD. The identification of cases which are most likely to get benefited from PARP inhibitor therapy in view of HRD and other biomarker assessments is still challenging. The purpose of this review is to focus and describe the current evidences for PARP inhibitors in ovarian malignancy, their mechanism of action, and the outstanding issues, including the rate of long-term toxicities and the evolving resistance.
The Mechanism of Membrane Permeabilization by Peptides: Still an Enigma
Authors: Wimley William C. , Hristova Kalina
Published: November 2019

Peptide-induced permeabilization of lipid vesicles has been measured for decades and has provided many insights into the sequence–structure–function relationships of membrane-active peptides. However, researchers in the field have noted that many experiments show transient permeabilization, in which a burst of leakage occurs immediately after peptide addition, followed by a slow-down or cessation of leakage before all contents have been released. This widely observed, but rarely studied, phenomenon is not explained by standard equilibrium pore models that are commonly invoked in both experimental and computational studies. Here, we discuss observations of transient permeabilization, and we outline a pathway towards understanding this enigmatic phenomenon.
Natural capital accounting perspectives: a pragmatic way forward
Authors: Turner Kerry , Badura Tomas , Ferrini Silvia
Published: November 2019

Introduction
: Recent debates surrounding the application of natural capital accounting (NCA) have produced several approaches to further develop this system, as well as highlighted a number of conceptual and methodological issues that need to be resolved before mainstreaming NCA into policy and decision making. We argue that prolonged debate over the value concepts (i.e., exchange versus other values) underpinning different modifications to NCA has slowed progress in experimentation and uptake by policymakers.
Outcomes
: Consequently we propose three broad approaches which can be progressed in parallel to reinvigorate experimentation with the NCA principles and practice, while at the same time generating policy relevant tools and evidence bases for decision support. The three approaches are; extended SNA accounting anchored to the use of exchange values; a complementary accounts network (CAN) that utilizes plural values as supplementary accounts to the SNA system; and wealth accounting that focuses on measures of welfare and wellbeing. The three approaches are complementary and data developed in any one can inform the other two.
Conclusions
: We contend that CAN offers the most flexibility and opportunities to progress short term support for decision making on environmental issues which are now becoming urgent.
How Do ImPACT Quick Test Scores Compare with ImPACT Online Scores in Non-Concussed Adolescent Athletes?
Authors: Elbin R J , D’Amico Nathan R , McCarthy Matthew , Womble Melissa N , O’Connor Sydne , Schatz Philip
Published: November 2019

Objective

To compare neurocognitive scores between the Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing (ImPACT) Quick Test (QT) and Online Versions in non-concussed high school athletes.

Methods

A sample of 47 high school athletes completed the ImPACT Online Version pre-season and the ImPACT QT approximately 3 months later. Paired sample t-tests and Pearson’s correlations examined differences and relationships between the ImPACT batteries.

Results

The ImPACT QT scores were significantly higher for performance on the Three Letters: Average Counted (p < .001, d = .88), Three Letters: Average Counted Correctly (p < .001, d = .80), and Symbol Match: Correct RT Visible (p < .001, d = .72), and Symbol Match: Correct RT Hidden (p = .002, d = .50) subtests. There were significant relationships for Three Letters: Average Counted (r = .85, p < .001), Three Letters: Average Counted Correctly (r = .82, p < .001), and Symbol Match: Total Correct Hidden (r = .40, p = .006) subtests.

Conclusions

Post-injury evaluation data using ImPACT QT should be compared to normative referenced data, and not to pre-season data from the ImPACT Online Version.
Value Profiles and Perceived Job Performance of Social Workers in Israel
Authors: Levin Lia , Benish-Weisman Maya , Savaya Riki
Published: November 2019

Values play a crucial role in the credo of social work. Recent definitions of the profession delineate the values that should guide social work worldwide. At the same time, social workers’ employment patterns and changes in the traditional welfare state have resulted in fragmentations in the profession, highlighting the importance of shared professional values. This study is the first to examine value profiles endorsed by social workers, as well as the association between such profiles and social workers’ perceived job performance. Participants in the study were 519 social workers, working in various organizations and with diverse populations in Israel. Its findings delineate three value profiles identified among our sample—growth-focused, social-focused and growth-self-focused. Differences between social workers endorsing each profile were found in terms of workers’ perceived job performance and perceived job-related abilities. These findings are discussed with relation to their unique contribution to what is known about values supported by social workers, as well as concerning the relationship between these values and social workers’ job-related functioning in the context of the social work profession and social services in Israel.
Strong genetic differentiation among populations of Fosterella rusbyi (Bromeliaceae) in Bolivia
Authors: Wöhrmann Tina , Michalak Ingo , Zizka Georg , Weising Kurt
Published: November 2019

The terrestrial bromeliad Fosterella rusbyi is endemic to the Bolivian Andes, where it mainly grows on steep, exposed slopes along roadsides and riverbeds in the seasonally dry tropical forest (SDTF) and the mesic montane forest (Yungas) biomes. We hypothesize that allopatric speciation may have been a main driver of diversification in Fosterella since the Miocene and that the scattered distribution of suitable habitats fostered the evolution of the high degree of endemism observed today. To provide further information relating to this hypothesis, we analysed the partition of genetic diversity and the extent of gene flow among natural populations of F. rusbyi using plastid and nuclear microsatellite markers. Nineteen plastid haplotypes were found, but the mean haplotype diversity per population was low. Nuclear microsatellite markers revealed 177 different multilocus genotypes (MLGs), of which 31 occurred in more than one plant. Recurrent MLGs were found in 76 plants that were therefore identified as clones. A considerable deficit of heterozygotes was detected at all nuclear loci. Geographical and genetic distances between populations were only weakly correlated with each other. Genetic divergence between populations was extremely high for both marker classes, suggesting that seed and pollen flow are low, even over short distances. The observed patterns are consistent with our hypothesis that newly available sites are sporadically colonized by one or a few founders, followed by in situ population expansion via vegetative propagation, self-pollination and/or biparental inbreeding, genetic differentiation among persistent populations and, ultimately, allopatric speciation.
Transformation of Event Representations along Middle Temporal Gyrus
Authors: Leshinskaya Anna , Thompson-Schill Sharon L
Published: November 2019

When learning about events through visual experience, one must not only identify which events are visually similar but also retrieve those events’ associates—which may be visually dissimilar—and recognize when different events have similar predictive relations. How are these demands balanced? To address this question, we taught participants the predictive structures among four events, which appeared in four different sequences, each cued by a distinct object. In each, one event (“cause”) was predictably followed by another (“effect”). Sequences in the same relational category had similar predictive structure, while across categories, the effect and cause events were reversed. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging data, we measured “associative coding,” indicated by correlated responses between effect and cause events; “perceptual coding,” indicated by correlated responses to visually similar events; and “relational category coding,” indicated by correlated responses to sequences in the same relational category. All three models characterized responses within the right middle temporal gyrus (MTG), but in different ways: Perceptual and associative coding diverged along the posterior to anterior axis, while relational categories emerged anteriorly in tandem with associative coding. Thus, along the posterior–anterior axis of MTG, the representation of the visual attributes of events is transformed to a representation of both specific and generalizable relational attributes.
Concurrent Extraction and Purification of Gentiopicroside from Gentiana scabra Bunge Using Microwave-Assisted Ethanol-Salt Aqueous Two-Phase Systems
Authors: Cheng Zhenyu , Song Haiyan , Zhang Yuewei , Han Dandan , Yu Xue , Shen Qihui , Zhong Fangli
Published: November 2019

A potential method called microwave-assisted aqueous two-phase extraction (MA-ATPE) was developed for concurrent extraction and purification of gentiopicroside from Gentiana scabra Bunge. Formation characteristics of aqueous two-phase system (ATPS) composed of ethanol and 25 kinds of salts were investigated; K2HPO4 (w/w, 21.71%) and ethanol (w/w, 40.72%) were determined to be the optimal compositions of ATPS. Response surface methodology based on Box–Behnken design was used to investigate the extraction conditions, the optimal parameters were summarized as follows: 80°C of extraction temperature, 31 s of extraction time, 11:1 (mL/g) of liquid-to-solid ratio, 100 meshes of particle size and 806 W of microwave power. Under these conditions, the extraction yield of gentiopicroside was 65.32 ± 0.24 mg/g with a recovery of 96.51%. Compared with other four methods, the purity of gentiopicroside in the crude extracts reached 17.16 ± 0.25%, which was significantly higher than that of smashing tissue extraction, microwave assisted-extraction, ultrasonic-assisted extraction and heat reflux extraction, respectively. In addition, the phase-forming salt can be recyclable. Therefore, MA-ATPE was an excellent and alternative technique to the conventional extraction approaches of gentiopicroside.