bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical modelling, simulation and experimental validation of partial discharge in cross‐linked polyethylene cables
Authors: Joseph Jineeth , Mohan Shilpa , Thiruthi Krishnan Sindhu
Published: November 2018

A clear understanding of the partial discharge (PD) phenomena occurring in cavities at various radial locations in the insulation is essential for proper monitoring of cables. This work presents a comparison of finite element method (FEM) model and capacitive model for simulation of PD in the insulation and an attempt to identify reliable parameters for monitoring the condition of cable insulation is done. A three‐dimensional FEM‐based model of the cable is developed in ANSYS software by including the effects of surface charge accumulation and propagation along with the phenomena of charge decay at the void surface. The induced charge concept which is correlated with changes in capacitance is employed to model a capacitive model for simulation of PD by considering the free electron availability for simulation of PDs in cables in EMTP software. The experimental validation of developed models is done by PD measurement on 11 kV cross‐linked polyethylene cables. Analysis of the simulation results recommends the relevance of the capacitive model to be employed for condition assessment of cable insulation in view of its simplicity and appropriateness in the estimation of model parameters from actual cable measurements.
The first detection of radio recombination lines at cosmological distances
Authors: Emig K. L. , Salas P. , de Gasperin F. , Oonk J. B. R. , Toribio M. C. , Röttgering H. J. A. , Tielens A. G. G. M.
Published: November 2018

Context. Recombination lines involving high principal quantum numbers (n ∼ 50 − 1000) populate the radio spectrum in large numbers. Low-frequency (< 1 GHz) observations of radio recombination lines (RRLs) primarily from carbon and hydrogen offer a new, if not unique, way to probe cold, largely atomic gas and warm, ionised gas in other galaxies. Furthermore, RRLs can be used to determine the physical state of the emitting regions, such as temperature and density. These properties make RRLs, potentially, a powerful tool of extragalactic interstellar medium (ISM) physics. At low radio frequencies, it is conceivable to detect RRLs out to cosmological distances when illuminated by a strong radio continuum. However, they are extremely faint (τpeak ∼ 10−3 − 10−4) and have so far eluded detection outside of the local universe.

Aims. With observations of the radio quasar 3C 190 (z = 1.1946), we aim to demonstrate that the ISM can be explored out to great distances through low-frequency RRLs.

Methods. 3C 190 was observed with the LOw Frequency ARray (LOFAR) and processed using newly developed techniques for spectral analysis.

Results. We report the detection of RRLs in the frequency range 112 MHz–163 MHz in the spectrum of 3C 190. Stacking 13 α-transitions with principal quantum numbers n = 266 − 301, a peak 6σ feature of optical depth τpeak = (1.0 ± 0.2)×10−3 and FWHM = 31.2 ± 8.3 km s−1 was found at z = 1.124. This corresponds to a velocity offset of −9965 km s−1 with respect to the systemic redshift of 3C 190.

Conclusions. We consider three interpretations of the origin of the RRL emission: an intervening dwarf-like galaxy, an active galactic nucleus (AGN) driven outflow, and the inter-galactic medium. We argue that the recombination lines most likely originate in a dwarf-like galaxy (M ∼ 109 M⊙) along the line of sight, although we cannot rule out an AGN-driven outflow. We do find the RRLs to be inconsistent with an inter-galactic medium origin. With this detection, we have opened up a new way to study the physical properties of cool, diffuse gas out to cosmological distances.
Evidence of spawning among Pacific bluefin tuna, Thunnus orientalis, in the Kuroshio and Kuroshio–Oyashio transition area
Authors: Ohshimo Seiji , Sato Takuya , Okochi Yumi , Tanaka Sho , Ishihara Taiki , Ashida Hiroshi , Suzuki Nobuaki
Published: November 2018

Reproductive characteristics are one of the key factors for understanding population dynamics in fishes. This study describes the spawning habitat of Pacific bluefin tuna (Thunnus orientalis) in the Kuroshio and the Kuroshio–Oyashio transition area. A total of 551 adult fish (fork length > 120 cm) were collected during 1994–2007 (except in 2001 and 2003) and 2016. Based on a histological analysis of the gonads, we concluded that actively spawning females were mainly present in late May to early July. Relative batch fecundity was significantly lower than that reported in the Sea of Japan but was similar to that observed in the Nansei area. Whereas most spawning adults in the Sea of Japan are 3–6 years old and those in the Nansei area are over 10 years old, the majority of the specimens in this study ranged from 160 to 180 cm in length, which corresponds to 6–8 years of age. Our results indicate that Pacific bluefin tuna spawn in the study area and provide important data for understanding the spatiotemporal differences in spawning strategy with growth in this species.
The complexity of weakly recognizing morphisms
Authors: Fleischer Lukas , Kufleitner Manfred
Published: November 2018

Weakly recognizing morphisms from free semigroups onto finite semigroups are a classical way for defining the class of ω-regular languages, i.e., a set of infinite words is weakly recognizable by such a morphism if and only if it is accepted by some Büchi automaton. We study the descriptional complexity of various constructions and the computational complexity of various decision problems for weakly recognizing morphisms. The constructions we consider are the conversion from and to Büchi automata, the conversion into strongly recognizing morphisms, as well as complementation. We also show that the fixed membership problem is NC1-complete, the general membership problem is in L and that the inclusion, equivalence and universality problems are NL-complete. The emptiness problem is shown to be NL-complete if the input is given as a non-surjective morphism.
Die Entwicklung und Ergebnisse von TAVI und chirurgischem Aortenklappenersatz in Deutschland 2014 bis 2015
Authors: Stachon Peter , Kaier Klaus , Zirlik Andreas , Bothe Wolfgang , Zehender Manfred , Bode Christoph , von zur Mühlen Constantin
Published: November 2018

Einleitung Die Behandlung der Aortenklappenstenose unterliegt seit der Einführung von Transkatheterklappen (TAVI) einem großen Wandel. Die vorliegende Studie untersucht die Behandlungsrealität 2014 und 2015 in Deutschland.

Methode Es wurden alle 38 414 isolierten chirurgischen Aortenklappeneingriffe und TAVIs durch Abfrage von Behandlungscodes analysiert.

Ergebnisse Seit 2014 werden in Deutschland mehr TAVI-Prozeduren als chirurgische Aortenklappeneingriffe durchgeführt. Insgesamt kam es zu einem deutlichen Anstieg von Eingriffen an der Aortenklappe: 2009 waren es insgesamt 10 858, 2015 schon 19 929. Im Jahre 2015 wurden Patienten ab 75 Jahren bevorzugt mit transfemoraler TAVI (TF-TAVI) behandelt. Bei Patienten über 80 Jahre wurde ein chirurgischer Klappenersatz lediglich 474-mal durchgeführt (im Vergleich: TF-TAVI: 7519; transapikale (TA)-TAVI: 1192). TAVI-Patienten waren deutlich älter, häufiger weiblichen Geschlechts, hatten mehr Vorerkrankungen und ein erhöhtes Operationsrisiko. Die innerklinische Mortalität lag nach chirurgischem Aortenklappeneingriff bei 2 %, nach TF-TAVI bei 3 % und nach TA-TAVI bei 6 %. Schlaganfallraten waren zwischen den drei Verfahren vergleichbar. Blutungen traten nach chirurgischem Aortenklappeneingriff und TA-TAVI zu 9 bzw. 8 % auf, nach TF-TAVI zu 3 %. Nach TF-TAVI wurden 66 % nach Hause entlassen, nach chirurgischem Klappenersatz 40 %.

Diskussion TF-TAVI ist zwischenzeitlich bei über 75-Jährigen der bevorzugte Aortenklappenersatz. Trotz eines im Vergleich zum chirurgischen Aortenklappenersatz deutlich kränkeren Kollektivs konnten Patienten sicher mit TAVI behandelt werden.
An overview of the rationale for qualitative research methods in social health
Authors: Stuckey Heather
Published: November 2018

Qualitative research is a primary way to understand the context of diabetes in a person′s life, beyond the medical outcomes. Identifying the qualitative issues such as patients′ knowledge about diabetes, their beliefs and attitudes, and their relationship with health care professionals can serve as data to determine the obstacles and, in turn, resolutions to those issues in diabetes management. Characteristics of qualitative and quantitative methods are described, with the discussion that both methods are complementary, not conflicting, to further the field of diabetes research.
Can social scientists be the change agents for diabetes prevention? Diabetes-related knowledge, attitude, and practice among social scientists
Authors: Shetty Raman , Jena Biranchi , Kadithi Adibabu
Published: November 2018

Introduction:Diabetes is an emergency in slow motion in India. There is an urgent need of improving awareness and education on diabetes in the community and the social scientist working in the community health are the important group to make this happen.

Objectives:To assess the prevalence of diabetes among the social scientists and measure their knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) on diabetes.

Materials and Methods:A delegate of social scientists attending a national conference on social science and health were screened for random blood sugar and a survey was conducted through a structured self-answered questionnaire on KAP in diabetes. Excel Microsoft Office 2010 package was used for descriptive analysis.

Results:A total of 245 social scientists attended the conference; of them, 211 (86%) social scientists voluntarily participated in diabetes screening, and among them, 99 (47%) voluntarily responded on KAP questionnaire. Prevalence rate of diabetes among social scientists was found to be 9.5% and the study revealed that the knowledge was fair, attitude was positive, and practice was good among the social scientists working in the field of social health.

Conclusion:The social scientists could be the Change Agents for the changing diabetes in the community through appropriate strategies involving them.
Structural and optical properties of sulfur passivated epitaxial step-graded GaAs1-ySby materials
Authors: Hudait Mantu K. , Clavel Michael B. , Saluru Sarat , Liu Jheng-Sin , Meeker Michael A. , Khodaparast Giti A. , Bodnar Robert J.
Published: November 2018

The impact of bulk and surface defect states on the vibrational and optical properties of step-graded epitaxial GaAs1-ySby (0 ≤ y ≤ 1) materials with and without chemical surface treatment by (NH4)2S was investigated. Tunable antimony (Sb) composition GaAs1-ySby epitaxial layers, grown by solid source molecular beam epitaxy (MBE), were realized on GaAs and Si substrates by varying key growth parameters (e.g., Sb/Ga flux ratio, growth temperature). Raman and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopic analysis of (NH4)2S-treated GaAs1-ySby epitaxial layers revealed composition-independent Raman spectral widths and enhanced PL intensity (1.3×) following (NH4)2S surface treatment, indicating bulk defect-minimal epitaxy and a reduction in the surface recombination velocity corresponding to reduced surface defect sites, respectively. Moreover, quantification of the luminescence recombination mechanisms across a range of measurement temperatures and excitation intensities (i.e., varying laser power) indicate the presence of free-electron to neutral acceptor pair or Sb-defect-related recombination pathways, with detectable bulk defect recombination discernible only in binary GaSb PL spectra. In addition, PL analysis of the short- and long-term thermodynamic stability of sulfur-treated GaAs1-ySby/Al2O3 heterointerfaces revealed an absence of quantifiable atomic interdiffusion or native oxide formation. Leveraging the combined Raman and PL analysis herein, the quality of the heteroepitaxial step-graded epitaxial GaAs1-ySby materials can be optimized for optical devices.
Electronic states of CeT2X20 (T:transition metal, X=Zn and Cd)
Authors: Hirose Yusuke , Suzuki Yoshitaka , Honda Fuminori , Kulkarni Ruta , Thamizhavel Arumugam , Kawamura Naomi , Mizumaki Masaichiro , Simokasa Ryohei , Mimura Kojiro , Doto Hiroshi , Settai Rikio
Published: November 2018

The electronic state of single crystals of CeIr2(Zn1−xCdx)20 and CePt2Cd20 has been studied by measuring the electrical resistivity ρ and specific heat C. We found that by substituting Zn with Cd, the lattice parameter expands, and the electronic specific heat coefficient γ and A coefficient, which is T2-term in ρ, are enhanced. Our experimental results reveal that the electronic state of the intermediate valence compound CeIr2Zn20 changes to a moderately heavy fermion state due to the negative chemical pressure. On the other hand, C and ρ of CePt2Cd20 show a clear jump and an abrupt change of slope below 0.3 K, respectively, due to a magnetic transition. The relation between the hybridization strength and Ce valence state has also been investigated by X-ray absorption experiment.
A compact ultrahigh vacuum scanning tunneling microscope with dilution refrigeration
Authors: Balashov T. , Meyer M. , Wulfhekel W.
Published: November 2018

We have designed and built a scanning tunneling microscope (STM) setup for operation at millikelvin temperatures in an ultrahigh vacuum. A compact cryostat with an integrated dilution refrigerator has been built that allows measurements at a base temperature of 25 mK in the magnetic field up to 7.5 T with low mechanical and electronic noise. The cryostat is not larger than conventional helium bath cryostats (23 and 13 l of nitrogen and helium, respectively) so that the setup does not require a large experimental hall and fits easily into a standard lab space. Mechanical vibrations with running dilution circulation were kept below 1 pm/Hz by mechanically decoupling the STM from the cryostat and the pumping system. All electronic input lines were low-pass filtered, reducing the electronic temperature to below 100 mK, as deduced from the quasiparticle peaks of superconducting aluminum. The microscope is optically accessible in the parked position, making sample and tip exchange fast and user-friendly. For measurement, the STM is lowered 60 mm down so that the sample ends in the middle of a wet superconducting magnetic coil.
Empirical design of slot-die having shallow reservoir for thin-film printed electronics
Authors: Shin Yejin , Kim Inyoung , Oh Dongho , Kim Hyun-Chang , Son Min-Jung , Lee Seung-Hyun , Lee Taik-Min
Published: November 2018

Slot-die coating plays an important role in printed electronics, which are fabricated by stacking thin films and patterns. As electronic devices are being required to have higher performance, the importance of coating uniformity cannot be overestimated in the slot-die coating. The coating uniformity consists of two directions: nozzle direction, which is affected by the interior design of the head, and machine direction, which is majorly related to exterior operating conditions. In this research, the empirical design procedure of a slot-die head is proposed. The internal resistance values of the slot-die were calculated using the experimental parameter obtained through a coating experiment, and the acquired resistances were reflected in the modeling of the interior design of the slot-die head. The hanger type reservoir was adapted to minimize the consumption of ink. After fabricating the slot-die head, coating experiments were carried out using PEDOT:PSS ink. The resulting deviation of the coating thickness was within ±1.7%, thus proving that the proposed design predicted the uniformity of the actual thickness of the coating correctly. The significance of the slot-die design method presented in this paper is that it is based on the experimental equation that can be readily applied to the printed electronics industry.
Child-Langmuir law for photoinjectors
Authors: Shamuilov Georgii , Mak Alan , Pepitone Kevin , Goryashko Vitaliy
Published: November 2018

The space-charge field at the cathode limits the current density extracted from particle sources such as photoinjectors. For a long time, the maximum current has been estimated by using the classical Child-Langmuir law, which is derived with an assumption inconsistent with the conditions of modern laser-driven electron guns. Here, we introduce a theoretical model that accurately accounts for space-charge effects in transversely confined particle beams emerging from photocathodes. The model enables us to (i) determine the maximum current density extractable from the photocathode for an arbitrary cathode radius, (ii) reveal its dependence on the transverse profile of the particle beam, and (iii) predict its upper limit for structured beams such as the ones produced by surface-plasmon resonance-enhanced photocathodes.
Permanent neuroglial remodeling of the retina following infiltration of CSF1R inhibition-resistant peripheral monocytes
Authors: Paschalis Eleftherios I. , Lei Fengyang , Zhou Chengxin , Kapoulea Vassiliki , Dana Reza , Chodosh James , Vavvas Demetrios G. , Dohlman Claes H.
Published: November 2018

Significance

This work contributes to the understanding of the enigmatic progressive retinal damage following acute ocular surface injury. Clinical findings in patients suggest that such injuries can adversely affect the retina. This study demonstrates that corneal injury leads to rapid infiltration of blood-derived monocytes into the retina and to subsequent remodeling of the neuroglial system. In contrast to previously held belief, this study shows that the blood-derived monocytes engraft permanently into the retina and differentiate into microglia-like cells. Although these cells are morphologically indistinguishable from native microglia, they retain a distinct signature and insensitivity to CSF1R inhibition and exhibit a reactive phenotype which persists long after the noxious stimuli is removed, ultimately contributing to progressive neuroretinal degeneration.
Mesoscale structure, mechanics, and transport properties of source rocks’ organic pore networks
Authors: Berthonneau Jeremie , Obliger Amaël , Valdenaire Pierre-Louis , Grauby Olivier , Ferry Daniel , Chaudanson Damien , Levitz Pierre , Kim Jae Jin , Ulm Franz-Josef , Pellenq Roland J.-M.
Published: November 2018

Significance

In source rocks, natural hydrocarbons are generated from organic matter dispersed in a fine-grained mineral matrix. The potential recovery of hydrocarbons is therefore influenced by the geometry of the organic hosted porous networks. Here, the three-dimensional structures of such networks are revealed using electron tomography with a subnanometer resolution. The reconstructions are first characterized in terms of morphology and topology and then used to build a multiscale simulation tool to study the mechanics and the transport properties of confined fluids. Our results offer evidence of the prevalent role of connected nanopores, which subsequently constitutes a material limit for long-term hydrocarbon production.
Arc/Arg3.1 mediates a critical period for spatial learning and hippocampal networks
Authors: Gao Xiaoyan , Castro-Gomez Sergio , Grendel Jasper , Graf Sabine , Süsens Ute , Binkle Lars , Mensching Daniel , Isbrandt Dirk , Kuhl Dietmar , Ohana Ora
Published: November 2018

Significance

Spatial learning and memory are hippocampal functions that emerge and mature during early postnatal development. The molecular mechanisms which shape this process are largely unknown. Here, we present evidence that the activity-regulated gene Arc/Arg3.1 is transiently up-regulated in the hippocampus of neonatal mice where it is required for establishing appropriate hippocampal network activity essential for spatial learning. Once established, network activity supports normal spatial learning in the absence of Arc/Arg3.1 while long-term memory storage continues to rely on Arc/Arg3.1 expression throughout life. These results demonstrate that hippocampal networks undergo a critical period of development mediated by Arc/Arg3.1 and open opportunities to investigate normal and pathological neurodevelopment of higher brain functions.
Rapid evolution of decreased host susceptibility drives a stable relationship between ultrasmall parasite TM7x and its bacterial host
Authors: Bor Batbileg , McLean Jeffrey S. , Foster Kevin R. , Cen Lujia , To Thao T. , Serrato-Guillen Alejandro , Dewhirst Floyd E. , Shi Wenyuan , He Xuesong
Published: November 2018

Significance

Cultivation-independent sequencing has revealed enormous numbers of bacterial species. Amongst the most enigmatic are members of the Candidate Phyla Radiation, which are estimated to represent over 26% of all bacterial diversity. This group of ultrasmall bacteria are thought to be mostly symbionts; however, understanding these bacteria is hampered by an inability to culture them. Here, we study TM7x, the only strain of the Candidate Phyla Radiation successfully cultured, and demonstrate that it can be virulent and lethal for its bacterial host. The host, however, can rapidly evolve to a state of reduced susceptibility, which results in a long-term parasitic relationship in which both species persist. These findings provide a rare glimpse into the lifestyle and symbiosis of Candidate Phyla Radiation organisms.
Molecular dynamics simulations of nucleotide release from the circadian clock protein KaiC reveal atomic-resolution functional insights
Authors: Hong Lu , Vani Bodhi P. , Thiede Erik H. , Rust Michael J. , Dinner Aaron R.
Published: November 2018

Significance

Circadian rhythms enable organisms to adapt to the 24-h day/night cycle. The importance of these rhythms is evident from their prevalence across the kingdoms of life and their dysregulation in many diseases. The core clock of the cyanobacterium
Synechococcus elongatus
serves as a paradigm for molecular studies of circadian rhythms because its oscillations can be reconstituted in vitro. There is evidence that the action of KaiC, the central component of the oscillator, depends critically on whether its active sites bind ADP or ATP, metabolites that function as the energy currency in cells. Here, we use molecular dynamics simulations to develop an atomic-resolution picture of ADP release and, in turn, hypotheses for the regulation of ADP/ATP exchange.
The interdependence of gene-regulatory elements and the 3D genome
Authors: Vermunt Marit W. , Zhang Di , Blobel Gerd A.
Published: November 2018

Imaging studies, high-resolution chromatin conformation maps, and genome-wide occupancy data of architectural proteins have revealed that genome topology is tightly intertwined with gene expression. Cross-talk between gene-regulatory elements is often organized within insulated neighborhoods, and regulatory cues that induce transcriptional changes can reshape chromatin folding patterns and gene positioning within the nucleus. The cause–consequence relationship of genome architecture and gene expression is intricate, and its molecular mechanisms are under intense investigation. Here, we review the interdependency of transcription and genome organization with emphasis on enhancer–promoter contacts in gene regulation.
A Cinematic Cultural Memory of Courtship, Weddings, Marriage, and Adultery in July Monarchy France through Heritage Films Claude Chabrol’s Madame Bovary, Jean-Paul Rappeneau’s The Horseman on the Roof, and Catherine Breillat’s The Last Mistress
Authors: Doherty Annabelle
Published: November 2018

Through the cinematic experience of heritage films’ historical reconstitutions, audiences may acquire a vivid cultural memory of prior eras, where the powerful corporeal effect of the cinematographic language stimulates a lived sensation of the past. Yet the recreations of heritage cinema are, at times, refracted through the lens of auteurism, impacting the historical realism and effect of authenticity and in the case of adaptations transforming the original source text. This article considers key French heritage films to depict the July Monarchy in France, investigating how different auteurs influence the films’ sensual audio-visual recreations and consequently spectators’ filmic experience. Former new wave auteur Claude Chabrol’s adaptation Madame Bovary (1991) and its recreation of 1830–1840s France is compared and contrasted with later-generation auteur Jean-Paul Rappeneau’s Le Hussard sur le toit/The Horseman on the Roof (1995) and younger-generation auteur Catherine Breillat’s Une vieille maîtresse/The Last Mistress (2007), exploring history via their unique authorial aesthetics and ideologies. The depiction of (semi-)fictional historical figures during events of the July Monarchy is analysed, in the films’ portraits of past landscapes, focusing on the intimate settings of courtship, weddings, marriage, and adultery during the reign of Louis Philippe I. The article examines the adaptation of Chabrol’s vision of Gustave Flaubert’s canonical 1857 work, together with Rappeneau’s interpretation of Jean Giono’s 1951 novel and Breillat’s recreation of Barbey d’Aurevilly’s 1851 text. It explores the cinematic cultural memory of the past potentially acquired by spectators through the embodied experience of each auteur’s powerful heritage adaptation.
Opportunities and Challenges in Conducting Economic Research on Food Loss and Waste
Authors: Ellison Brenna , Muth Mary K , Golan Elise
Published: November 2018

Food loss and waste (FLW) issues are receiving heightened attention from local, national, and international governments and nongovernmental organizations. While research in the FLW space is growing rapidly, economists have important contributions to make to the FLW conversation. In this paper we discuss the opportunities and challenges in conducting economic research on FLW. We highlight some of the more technical opportunities and challenges related to data, measurement, and evaluation of FLW reduction initiatives as these are often focal points in the current FLW literature. In addition, we discuss the notion of optimal FLW, which has been mostly absent from the policy discussion to date. Economic analyses can help contribute towards identifying market failures that support the need for FLW interventions, estimating the costs and benefits of FLW interventions, and clearly identifying the winners and losers of potential mandatory requirements to reduce FLW.
Development and Emergence of Individual Variability in the Functional Connectivity Architecture of the Preterm Human Brain
Authors: Xu Yuehua , Cao Miao , Liao Xuhong , Xia Mingrui , Wang Xindi , Jeon Tina , Ouyang Minhui , Chalak Lina , Rollins Nancy , Huang Hao , He Yong
Published: November 2018

Individual variability in human brain networks underlies individual differences in cognition and behaviors. However, researchers have not conclusively determined when individual variability patterns of the brain networks emerge and how they develop in the early phase. Here, we employed resting-state functional MRI data and whole-brain functional connectivity analyses in 40 neonates aged around 31–42 postmenstrual weeks to characterize the spatial distribution and development modes of individual variability in the functional network architecture. We observed lower individual variability in primary sensorimotor and visual areas and higher variability in association regions at the third trimester, and these patterns are generally similar to those of adult brains. Different functional systems showed dramatic differences in the development of individual variability, with significant decreases in the sensorimotor network; decreasing trends in the visual, subcortical, and dorsal and ventral attention networks, and limited change in the default mode, frontoparietal and limbic networks. The patterns of individual variability were negatively correlated with the short- to middle-range connection strength/number and this distance constraint was significantly strengthened throughout development. Our findings highlight the development and emergence of individual variability in the functional architecture of the prenatal brain, which may lay network foundations for individual behavioral differences later in life.
School Performance and Educational Attainment as Early-Life Predictors of Age-Related Memory Decline: Protective Influences in Later-Born Cohorts
Authors: Pudas Sara , Rönnlund Michael
Published: November 2018

Objectives

Evidence is accumulating that early-life characteristics and experiences contribute significantly to differences in cognitive aging. This study investigated whether school performance at age 12 predicted late-life level and rate of memory change over 15–25 years, and whether its potential protective influence on memory change was mediated by educational attainment or income.

Methods

Latent growth curve models were fitted to 15–25 year longitudinal memory data from a population-based sample, stratified on age cohorts (n = 227, born 1909–1935; n = 301, born 1938–1954).

Results

A latent-level school grade variable significantly predicted both memory level and slope in later-born cohorts. Higher grades were associated with higher level and reduced decline, measured between ages 45 and 70 years, on average. In the earlier-born cohorts, grades predicted memory level, but not slope, measured between ages 66 and 81 years. Follow-up analyses indicated that the protective influence of higher school grades in later-born cohorts was partially mediated by educational attainment, but independent of income.

Discussion

The results suggest that higher childhood school performance is protective against age-related cognitive decline in younger or later-born cohorts, for which further education has been more accessible. Education may exert such influence through increased cognitive reserve or more well-informed health- and lifestyle decisions.
Error estimates of finite difference schemes for the Korteweg–de Vries equation
Authors: Courtès Clémentine , Lagoutière Frédéric , Rousset Frédéric
Published: November 2018

This article deals with the numerical analysis of the Cauchy problem for the Korteweg–de Vries equation with a finite difference scheme. We consider the explicit Rusanov scheme for the hyperbolic flux term and a 4-point $\theta $-scheme for the dispersive term. We prove the convergence under a hyperbolic Courant–Friedrichs–Lewy condition when $\theta \geq \frac{1}{2}$ and under an ‘Airy’ Courant–Friedrichs–Lewy condition when $\theta <\frac{1}{2}$. More precisely, we get a first-order convergence rate for strong solutions in the Sobolev space $H^s(\mathbb{R})$, $s \geq 6$ and extend this result to the nonsmooth case for initial data in $H^s(\mathbb{R})$, with $s\geq \frac{3}{4}$, at the price of a reduction in the convergence order. Numerical simulations indicate that the orders of convergence may be optimal when $s\geq 3$.
An expandable approach for design and personalization of digital, just-in-time adaptive interventions
Authors: Gonul Suat , Namli Tuncay , Huisman Sasja , Laleci Erturkmen Gokce Banu , Toroslu Ismail Hakki , Cosar Ahmet
Published: November 2018

Objective

We aim to deliver a framework with 2 main objectives: 1) facilitating the design of theory-driven, adaptive, digital interventions addressing chronic illnesses or health problems and 2) producing personalized intervention delivery strategies to support self-management by optimizing various intervention components tailored to people’s individual needs, momentary contexts, and psychosocial variables.

Materials and Methods

We propose a template-based digital intervention design mechanism enabling the configuration of evidence-based, just-in-time, adaptive intervention components. The design mechanism incorporates a rule definition language enabling experts to specify triggering conditions for interventions based on momentary and historical contextual/personal data. The framework continuously monitors and processes personal data space and evaluates intervention-triggering conditions. We benefit from reinforcement learning methods to develop personalized intervention delivery strategies with respect to timing, frequency, and type (content) of interventions. To validate the personalization algorithm, we lay out a simulation testbed with 2 personas, differing in their various simulated real-life conditions.

Results

We evaluate the design mechanism by presenting example intervention definitions based on behavior change taxonomies and clinical guidelines. Furthermore, we provide intervention definitions for a real-world care program targeting diabetes patients. Finally, we validate the personalized delivery mechanism through a set of hypotheses, asserting certain ways of adaptation in the delivery strategy, according to the differences in simulation related to personal preferences, traits, and lifestyle patterns.

Conclusion

While the design mechanism is sufficiently expandable to meet the theoretical and clinical intervention design requirements, the personalization algorithm is capable of adapting intervention delivery strategies for simulated real-life conditions.
Prevention of enteric fever in travellers with typhoid conjugate vaccines
Authors: Britto Carl , Jin Celina , Theiss-Nyland Katherine , Pollard Andrew J
Published: November 2018

The 2018 WHO position paper on typhoid vaccines indicates preference for the use of new generation typhoid conjugate vaccines over existing parenteral Vi-polysaccharide (Vi-PS) and oral attenuated Ty21a vaccines
A search for warm/hot gas filaments between pairs of SDSS Luminous Red Galaxies
Authors: Tanimura Hideki , Hinshaw Gary , McCarthy Ian G , Van Waerbeke Ludovic , Aghanim Nabila , Ma Yin-Zhe , Mead Alexander , Hojjati Alireza , Tröster Tilman
Published: November 2018

We search the Planck data for a thermal Sunyaev–Zel’dovich (tSZ) signal due to gas filaments between pairs of Luminous Red Galaxies (LRGs) taken from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey Data Release 12 (SDSS/DR12). We identify ∼260 000 LRG pairs in the DR12 catalogue that lie within 6–10 $h^{-1} \, \mathrm{Mpc}$ of each other in tangential direction and within 6 $h^{-1} \, \mathrm{Mpc}$ in radial direction. We stack pairs by rotating and scaling the angular positions of each LRG so they lie on a common reference frame, then we subtract a circularly symmetric halo from each member of the pair to search for a residual signal between the pair members. We find a statistically significant (5.3σ) signal between LRG pairs in the stacked data with a magnitude Δy = (1.31 ± 0.25) × 10−8. The uncertainty is estimated from two Monte Carlo null tests which also establish the reliability of our analysis. Assuming a simple, isothermal, cylindrical filament model of electron overdensity with a radial density profile proportional to rc/r (as determined from simulations), where r is the perpendicular distance from the cylinder axis and rc is the core radius of the density profile, we constrain the product of overdensity and filament temperature to be $\delta _\mathrm{ c} \times (T_{\rm e}/10^7 \, {\rm K}) \times (r_\mathrm{ c}/0.5h^{-1} \, {\rm Mpc}) = 2.7 \pm 0.5$. To our knowledge, this is the first detection of filamentary gas at overdensities typical of cosmological large-scale structure. We compare our result to the BAHAMAS suite of cosmological hydrodynamic simulations (McCarthy et al. 2017) and find a slightly lower, but marginally consistent Comptonization excess, Δy = (0.84 ± 0.24) × 10−8.
Musculoskeletal Signs Associated with Shoulder Pain in Patients Undergoing Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery
Authors: Rodríguez-Torres Janet , Lucena-Aguilera María del M , Cabrera-Martos Irene , López-López Laura , Torres-Sánchez Irene , Valenza Marie C
Published: November 2018

Background

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death worldwide, and lung resection still represents the main curative treatment modality. Although video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery has emerged as a minimally invasive alternative, its relationship with shoulder musculoskeletal signs remains unclear.

Objective

To characterize shoulder dysfunction in patients after video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery and to analyze its influence on quality of life.

Design and Setting

A longitudinal observational prospective cohort study has been carried out in the Thoracic Surgery Service of the Hospital Virgen de las Nieves (Granada).

Subjects

Fifty-nine patients undergoing video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery were included.

Methods

Patients were assessed before surgery, at discharge, and one month after discharge. Musculoskeletal disturbances, pain severity, and health status were assessed. Musculoskeletal outcomes measured were range of movement and trigger points, both bilaterally. Additionally, pain severity and health status were measured with Brief Pain Inventory and Euroqol-5 dimensions.

Results

Significant differences were found at discharge in trigger points of ipsilateral and contralateral upper limbs. One month after surgery, no muscle returned to baseline measures, and ipsilateral and contralateral shoulders presented a decreased range of motion, as well as poor quality of life and high severity and interference of pain.

Conclusions

Video-assissted thoracoscopic surgery was associated with musculoskeletal shoulder dysfunction, which remained one month after the intervention. This musculoskeletal dysfunction included significant dysfunction in both shoulders with a decreased range of movement, an increase in trigger points, poor quality of life, and high severity and interference of pain.
Paradox of Redistribution: Legislative Overrepresentation and Regional Development in Brazil
Authors: Hiroi Taeko
Published: November 2018

This article examines the relationship between legislative malapportionment, redistribution, and regional economic development. One of the primary justifications for legislative malapportionment—the disparity between the share of legislative seats and the share of the national population—is interregional income equalization by means of favorable allocations of resources to rural areas through overrepresentation. By analyzing the case of Brazil using instrumental variables, this study evaluates the theoretical argument and the empirical validity of the presumed mechanism linking unequal representation to regional development and national economic convergence. It argues that in contexts of undeveloped democracies, rather than convergence, disproportionate resource transfers via overrepresentation hinder the development of beneficiary regions. The empirical analyses of Brazilian states indicate that while overrepresented jurisdictions do receive disproportionate shares of resources from the federal government, disproportionate resource transfers, and dependence on resource transfers attributable to overrepresentation hamper the development potential of those regions.
Safety of Percutaneous Dilatational Tracheostomy During Veno-Venous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Support in Adults With Severe Respiratory Failure
Authors: Dimopoulos Stavros , Joyce Holly , Camporota Luigi , Glover Guy , Ioannou Nicholas , Langrish Christopher J. , Retter Andrew , Meadows Christopher I. S. , Barrett Nicholas A. , Tricklebank Stephen
Published: November 2018

Objectives:

To investigate the safety of percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy in severe respiratory failure patients during veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support.

Design:

A single-center, retrospective, observational cohort study.

Setting:

Tertiary referral severe respiratory failure center, university teaching hospital.

Patients:

Severe respiratory failure patients consecutively admitted and supported with veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation between January 2010 and December 2015.

Intervention:

A bronchoscopy-guided percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy was performed in all cases.

Measurements and Main Results:

Sixty-five veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation patients (median [interquartile range] age, 47 yr [interquartile range, 35-59 yr]; 39 males; Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation-II score, 18 [interquartile range, 17-22] Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score, 10 [interquartile range, 7-16]) underwent percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy. Ten patients (15%) developed one or more major complications. Of these, seven (11%) had major bleeding, and three of these also required circuit change due to extracorporeal membrane oxygenation circuit dysfunction. Two more patients (3.1%) presented with isolated extracorporeal membrane oxygenation circuit dysfunction requiring circuit change, and one developed bilateral pneumothoraces (1.5%) requiring intercostal drain insertion. Patients who developed complications had significantly lower extracorporeal membrane oxygenation postoxygenator Po
2 prior to percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy (45.8 kPa [interquartile range, 36.9–56.5 kPa] vs 57.9 kPa [interquartile range, 45.1–64.2 kPa]; p = 0.019]. On multivariate analysis, including demographic, clinical, biochemical, hematologic variables, and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation circuit functional variables, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation postoxygenator Po
2 was the only independent variable associated with major complications following percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy (beta = –0.09; odds ratio, 0.9; 95% CI, 0.84–0.99; p = 0.03).

Conclusions:

Percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy is associated with a considerable complication rate in veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation patients. Preprocedure circuit performance as indicated by extracorporeal membrane oxygenation postoxygenator Po
2 is an independent predictor of major complications following percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy.
Melanoma vaccines: clinical status and immune endpoints
Authors: Maurer Deena M. , Butterfield Lisa H. , Vujanovic Lazar
Published: November 2018

It has been known for decades that the immune system can be spontaneously activated against melanoma. The presence of tumor infiltrating lymphocytes in tumor deposits is a positive prognostic factor. Cancer vaccination includes approaches to generate, amplify, or skew antitumor immunity. To accomplish this goal, tested approaches involve administration of tumor antigens, antigen presenting cells or other immune modulators, or direct modulation of the tumor. Because the success of checkpoint blockade can depend in part on an existing antitumor response, cancer vaccination may play an important role in future combination therapies. In this review, we discuss a variety of melanoma vaccine approaches and methods to determine the biological impact of vaccination.
Graded Exercise Testing Predicts Recovery Trajectory of Concussion in Children and Adolescents
Authors: Orr Rhonda , Bogg Tina , Fyffe Andrew , Lam Lawrence T. , Browne Gary J.
Published: November 2018

Objective:

To determine whether graded exercise testing can predict recovery trajectory of concussion in children and adolescents.

Design:

Prospective study.

Setting:

Children's Hospital, Westmead, Australia.

Participants:

One hundred thirty-nine children aged 12 to 16 years at 5 to 7 days after an acute concussive injury.

Intervention:

Graded exercise testing on a treadmill at the subacute phase to assess symptom provocation and determine clinical recovery indicating readiness to commence a return to activity (RTA) protocol. Exercise time to symptom exacerbation and clinical recovery were measured.

Main Outcome Measures:

Standard concussion assessment and clinical testing (neurocognitive, vestibular/ocular, and balance) were conducted to determine major clinical drivers/indicators.

Results:

Participants (mean age 12.4 ± 2.8 years, 73% male) had a confirmed sport-related concussion. The main clinical drivers identified on exercise testing were headache, balance, and vestibular dysfunction. Participants fell into 1 of 2 groups, exercise-tolerant (54%) and exercise-intolerant (46%). Exercise-tolerant patients showed mild clinical indicators, no symptom exacerbation during 10.3 ± 3.3 minutes of exercise, were safely transitioned to a RTA protocol, and recovered within 10 days. Exercise-intolerant patients had high clinical indicators, significant symptom exacerbation at 4.2 ± 1.6 minutes of exercise, and prolonged recovery of 45.6 days. No adverse effects from exercise were reported in either group. Combined use of provocative exercise and clinical testing was 93% predictive of outcome.

Conclusions:

Exercise testing during the subacute phase after a concussion can predict longer recovery. Exercise testing can identify a unique window where patients can be safely transitioned to activity, enabling clinicians to better inform patients and families, allocate resources and streamline care.
A Systematic Review of the Reported Proportions of Diagnoses for Dizziness and Vertigo
Authors: Parker Ian Gerard , Hartel Gunter , Paratz Jennifer , Choy Nancy Low , Rahmann Ann
Published: November 2018

Objectives:

To determine the typical proportions of diagnoses for patients presenting with dizziness or vertigo based on clinical speciality and to assess the change in proportions of diagnoses over time.

Data Sources:

Following PRISMA guidelines, systematic searches of PubMed and CINAHL databases and follow-up reference searches were performed for articles published in English up to October 2016.

Study Selection:

Analysis of searches yielded 42 studies meeting the criteria of case series of adult patients with dizziness and/or vertigo presenting to general practice, emergency departments or specialist outpatient clinics.

Data Extraction:

Data comprising demographics, diagnostic cases, and the total number of cases were recorded and independently tested, followed by a risk of bias analysis.

Data Synthesis:

Sample size weighted proportions expressed as percentages with confidence intervals were calculated and compared using χ
2 analysis and a reference proportion formed by the combination of Ear Nose and Throat and Neurotology case series published between 2010 and 2016. Analysis of diagnostic trends over time used Poisson regression with consideration for overdispersion.

Conclusions:

This systematic review of case series demonstrated significant differences in the proportions of diagnoses for patients presenting with dizziness or vertigo, depending on the specialty making the diagnosis. ENT proportions were dominated by BPPV, Psychogenic and Menière's disease diagnostic categories, whereas emergency proportions were dominated by Other, Cardiac, and Neurological categories. Analysis of case series proportions over time revealed increases in diagnoses such as Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo and Vestibular Migraine, and a corresponding decrease in the diagnoses of Menière's disease.