bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of convective storms using spaceborne radars over the Indo‐Gangetic Plains and western coast of India
Authors: Mangla Rohit , Indu J. , Lakshmi Venkataraman
Published: May 2020

Monsoonal convective systems are examined using four years (2014–2017) of radar reflectivity data from the Precipitation Features (PFs) database of the Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) Microwave Imager (GMI) and Dual Precipitation Radar (DPR). The study classifies the cumulonimbus tower (PF‐CbT) at 12 km, and intense convective clouds at both 3 km (PF‐ICC3) and 8 km (PF‐ICC8) based on PFs' reflectivity threshold at a reference height over the Indo‐Gangetic Plains (IGP) and Indian Western coastal (WG) region, including the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats. Results show that the regional variations are more enhanced for the PF‐ICC3 clouds with high occurrence over the IGP region. In the mixed‐phase regime, the median maximum reflectivity is greater for all cloud types over the IGP region. The occurrences of 20 and 40 dBZ echo the top height > 5 km is higher in the IGP region, indicating the deep and intense convection. The aerosol–cloud interaction is examined for warm and mixed‐phase clouds. The vertical structure of aerosols shows the suppression of warm rainfall over the IGP region. However, rainfall intensity increases in mixed‐phase clouds because of the dominancy of ice processes. The significant positive (negative) correlation is observed between the echo top height and aerosol concentrations over the IGP (WG) region. The value of the novel findings clearly states the region‐specific demand for a closer examination of the radar reflectivity–aerosol interaction on regime‐dependent clouds over the IGP region as well as contrasts against other regions for similar and contrasting cloud–aerosol‐radiation interactions.
Inflow artifact reduction using an adaptive flip‐angle navigator restore pulse for late gadolinium enhancement of the left atrium
Authors: Henningsson Markus , Carlhäll Carl‐Johan
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) of the left atrium is susceptible to artifacts arising from the right pulmonary veins, caused by inflowing blood tagged by the navigator restore pulse. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a new method to reduce the inflow artifact using an adaptive flip‐angle restore pulse.

Methods

A low‐restore angle reduces the inflow artifact but may lead to a poor navigator SNR. The proposed approach aims to determine the patient‐specific restore angle, which optimizes the trade‐off between inflow artifacts and navigator SNR. Three‐dimensional LGE with adaptive navigator restore (3D LGEA) was implemented by incrementing the flip angle of the restore pulse from a starting value of 0°, based on the navigator normalized cross‐correlation. Magnetic resonance imaging experiments were performed on a 1.5T scanner. The value of 3D LGEA was compared with 3D LGE with a constant 180° restore pulse (3D LGE180) in 22 patients with heart diseases. The values of 3D LGEA and 3D LGE180 were compared in terms of pulmonary vein blood signal relative to reference blood in the descending aorta (PVrel) and visual scoring to determine level of motion artifacts using a 4‐point scale (1 = severe artifacts; 4 = no artifacts).

Results

The value of PVrel was significantly lower for 3D LGEA than for 3D LGE180 (1.16 ± 0.23 vs. 1.59 ± 0.29, P < .001). Furthermore, visual scoring of the motion artifacts yielded no difference (P = .78).

Conclusion

Adaptively adjusting the navigator restore flip angle based on the navigator normalized cross‐correlation reduces the 3D LGE inflow artifact without affecting image quality or the scan time.
Real‐world data in Saudi Arabia: Current situation and challenges for regulatory decision‐making
Authors: Alnofal Fatemah A. , Alrwisan Adel A. , Alshammari Thamir M.
Published: May 2020

Purpose

To present the process of establishing a pharmacoepidemiological database in Saudi Arabia, challenges and models used.

Methods

The database establishment has started in 2017 by piloting the conversion of electronic health records of one hospital to the Observational Health Data Sciences and Informatics (OHDSI), Observational Medical Outcomes Partnership's Common Data Model (OMOP).

Results

During the pilot phase we have faced several challenges such as limited contribution in providing data by local medical institution due to uncertainty about data governance, diversity of systems used by hospitals, inconsistent coding of medical information, and limited awareness about data structure from participating hospital. The pilot phase was completed in 2019 containing information about patient attributes, medical care, therapies, and other additional services for around 130 000 patients in Saudi Arabia. The majority of patients were below the age of 50 years (89%), and acute respiratory infections were the most frequent diagnosis. The data quality was acceptable and no major anomalies were detected during the conversion.

Conclusions

We demonstrated a successful creation of a pilot database using OHDSI Common Data Model. Our experience with the pilot database could be extended to other institutions to create a national dataset that could be used to generate real‐world evidence.
Registration of USDA‐N7004 soybean germplasm with good yield, elevated seed protein, and 25% exotic pedigree from Tamahikari
Authors: McNeece Brant T. , Bagherzadi Laleh , Carter Thomas E. , Mian M. A. Rouf
Published: May 2020

USDA‐N7004 (Reg. no. GP‐438, PI 692263) is a conventional late maturity group VII soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] germplasm with good yield potential, elevated seed protein content, and 25% exotic pedigree from Japanese cultivar Tamahikari (PI 423897). USDA‐N7004 was jointly released as a non‐GM germplasm by the USDA‐ARS and the North Carolina Agricultural Research Service in September 2019. USDA‐N7004, experimental name N10‐711, was derived from a cross of USDA‐ARS breeding lines NTCPR01‐163 (‘Dillon’ × Tamahikari) and N03‐832. Across 27 environments of the USDA Uniform Soybean Tests‐Southern States (Uniform Tests), USDA‐N7004 yielded 97 and 94% of elite checks ‘N7003CN’ and ‘NC‐Wilder’, respectively. Over 20 environments of United Soybean Board Southern Diversity Yield Trials (Diversity Trials), USDA‐N7004 yielded 98 and 94% of the same two checks, respectively. In the Uniform Tests, seed protein content of USDA‐N7004 (421 g kg−1) was significantly higher than N7003CN and NC‐Wilder on a zero‐moisture basis (405 and 399 g kg−1, respectively). The meal protein content of USDA‐N7004 (49%) was significantly higher than N7003CN or NC‐Wilder (47%) in the Uniform Tests as well as in the Diversity Trials. USDA‐N7004 should be a useful parent in breeding programs aimed at broadening the genetic base of soybean along with improving seed protein and seed yield.
A systematic study of stereochemical effects in homologous poly(alkenamer)s: Dewar benzene versus norbornene
Authors: Lee Stanfield Y. , Seo Jinwon , Bielawski Christopher W.
Published: May 2020

Two diastereomeric derivatives of norbornene, dimethyl (1R,2R,3S,4S)‐bicyclo[2.2.1]hept‐5‐ene‐2,3‐dicarboxylate and dimethyl (1R,2S,3S,4S)‐bicyclo[2.2.1]hept‐5‐ene‐2,3‐dicarboxylate, were synthesized and polymerized using ring‐opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP). For comparative purposes, diastereomeric derivatives of Dewar benzene, dimethyl (1R,2S,3R,4S)‐bicyclo[2.2.0]hex‐5‐ene‐2,3‐dicarboxylate and dimethyl (1R,2S,3S,4S)‐bicyclo[2.2.0]hex‐5‐ene‐2,3‐dicarboxylate, were also synthesized and polymerized using ROMP. The polymerization reactions proceeded in a controlled manner as evidenced in part by linear relationships between the monomer‐to‐catalyst feed ratios and the molecular weights of the polymer products. Chain extension experiments were also conducted which facilitated the formation of block copolymers. Although the poly(norbornene) derivatives exhibited glass transition temperatures that were dependent on their monomer stereochemistry (cis: 115°C vs. trans: 125°C), more pronounced differences were observed upon analysis of the polymers derived from Dewar benzene (cis: 70°C vs. trans: 95°C). Likewise, microphase separation was observed in block copolymers that were prepared using the diastereomeric monomers derived from Dewar benzene but not in block copolymers of the norbornene‐based diastereomers. The differential thermal properties were attributed to the relative monomer sizes as reducing the distances between the polymer backbones and the pendant stereocenters appeared to enhance the thermal effects.
The impact of social constraints on insomnia among African‐American breast cancer survivors: The mediating role of fear of recurrence
Authors: Martin Chloé M. , Greene Danyella , Harrell Jules P. , Mwendwa Denée Thomas , Williams Carla D. , Horton Sara , Cradle Melanie , Hudson Briana D. , Taylor Teletia R.
Published: May 2020

Objective

Insomnia is a significant concern among African‐American breast cancer survivors (BCS). Social constraints (SC)—receiving unsupportive or critical responses when expressing trauma‐related emotions—and fear of recurrence (FOR) have been associated with insomnia. We examined FOR as a mediator in the relationship between SC and insomnia in African‐American BCS. We hypothesized a direct effect of SC on insomnia, and an indirect effect of SC on insomnia through FOR.

Methods

Sixty‐four African‐American BCS completed a questionnaire assessing demographics, clinical characteristics, SC, FOR, and insomnia. Participants were an average of M = 8.41 (SD = 5.8) year survivors. The mediation was tested using PROCESS for SPSS.

Results

The direct effect of SC on insomnia was significant (direct effect = .17, SE = .08, P = .04). Moreover, the indirect effect of SC on insomnia through FOR was significant (indirect effect = .19, SE = .10, 95% CI = .05, .41).

Conclusions

Experiencing SC from family and friends could produce cognitions that impact sleep for BCS, and FOR could be one of those cognitions. Family‐based models of care that emphasize the emotional needs of survivors and families could be a relevant strategy to address the SC that impacts sleep.
Progress on Lithium Dendrite Suppression Strategies from the Interior to Exterior by Hierarchical Structure Designs
Authors: Shen Lu , Shi Peiran , Hao Xiaoge , Zhao Qiang , Ma Jiabin , He Yan‐Bing , Kang Feiyu
Published: May 2020

Lithium (Li) metal is promising for high energy density batteries due to its low electrochemical potential (−3.04 V) and high specific capacity (3860 mAh g−1). However, the safety issues impede the commercialization of Li anode batteries. In this work, research of hierarchical structure designs for Li anodes to suppress Li dendrite growth and alleviate volume expansion from the interior (by the 3D current collector and host matrix) to the exterior (by the artificial solid electrolyte interphase (SEI), protective layer, separator, and solid state electrolyte) is concluded. The basic principles for achieving Li dendrite and volume expansion free Li anode are summarized. Following these principles, 3D porous current collector and host matrix are designed to suppress the Li dendrite growth from the interior. Second, artificial SEI, the protective layer, and separator as well as solid‐state electrolyte are constructed to regulate the distribution of current and control the Li nucleation and deposition homogeneously for suppressing the Li dendrite growth from exterior of Li anode. Ultimately, this work puts forward that it is significant to combine the Li dendrite suppression strategies from the interior to exterior by 3D hierarchical structure designs and Li metal modification to achieve excellent cycling and safety performance of Li metal batteries.
Simplified seismic axial collapse capacity prediction model for moderately compressed reinforced concrete shear walls adjacent to transfer structure in tall buildings
Authors: Shan Zhiwei , Looi Daniel T. W. , Cheng Bei , Su Ray K. L.
Published: May 2020

Nonseismically detailed reinforced concrete (RC) shear walls adjacent to transfer structure in tall buildings are found to have short shear spans and designed to hold considerable axial load. In a previous paper, a Modified Mohr's Axial Capacity Model was developed by the authors to estimate the axial collapse of these RC walls in seismic events, which is expressed as an axial load ratio devised based on classical Mohr's circle framework. It was noted that the previous model can be complicated and appears not suitable for direct adoption in engineering design check. Hence, in this paper, a new simplified seismic axial collapse capacity prediction model is formulated to improvise the previous model. This simplified model typifies the practical range of shear wall geometry, concrete strength, steel reinforcement stress and strain and reinforcement ratio. Simplified charts to estimate maximum shear stress are presented for quicker design check. The complex inelastic buckling stress calculation is simplified into graphs and design equations. A knife‐edge feasible solutions zone is defined, expressed as an inequality function of axial‐to‐shear capacity ratio and additional axial stress induced by lateral shear. Recommendations are made based on results obtained from Genetic Algorithm search and further justified by parametric studies.
Fluorimetric Detection of Phosphates in Water Using a Disassembly Approach: A Comparison of FeIII‐, ZnII‐, MnII‐ and MnIII‐salen Complexes
Authors: Winkler Daniela , Banke Sophie , Kurz Philipp
Published: May 2020

Details of the reaction sequence used for the fluorimetric detection of phosphates by disassembly of transition metal Schiff base complexes were investigated for [FeIII(salen)(H2O)]+, [ZnII(salen)], [MnII(salen)(H2O)2], and [MnIII(salen)(H2O)]+. The reactivity of these compounds towards phosphorus oxoanions of differing charge, number of donor atoms and steric hindrance was detected by UV/Vis and fluorescence spectroscopy in both aprotic organic and aqueous media. Selectivity of [FeIII(salen)(H2O)]+ towards pyrophosphate over all other tested phosphorus‐containing analytes was strongly supported. [ZnII(salen)] showed a faster reactivity but was much less selective. In contrast, [MnIII(salen)(H2O)]+ proved to be more stable than the iron complex but generally showed little reactivity towards phosphorus oxoanions. The influence of the charge of the central atom was investigated using the MnII analogue [MnII(salen)(H2O)2]. As expected, the reduced charge resulted in a reactivity comparable to the ZnII complex in organic solution but lead to hydrolysis of the complex in water. Finally, the reaction products of [FeIII(salen)(H2O)]+ with phosphates were characterized by IR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry, providing further insights into the reaction mechanism of the disassembly process.
Application of Accelerators and Storage Rings
Authors: Dohlus M. , Rossbach J. , Bethge K. H. W. , Meijer J. , Amaldi U. , Magrin G. , Lindroos M. , Molloy S. , Rees G. , Seidel M. , Angert N. , Boine-Frankenheim O.
Published: May 2020

It is well known from Maxwell theory that electromagnetic radiation is emitted whenever electric charges are accelerated in free space. This radiation assumes quite extraordinary properties whenever the charged particles move at ultrarelativistic speed: The radiation becomes very powerful and tightly collimated in space, and it may easily cover a rather wide spectrum ranging from the THz into the hard X-ray regime. When generation of such radiation is intended rather than being a side effect, the charged particles are normally electrons, thus kinetic energies are then typically in the multi-MeV range.
Beam Dynamics
Authors: Wilson E. , Holzer B. J.
Published: May 2020

Now let us look in detail at the motion of particles in the transverse coordinates of the coordinate system defined in Fig. 2.1.
Design and Principles of Synchrotrons and Circular Colliders
Authors: Holzer B. J. , Goddard B. , Herr Werner , Muratori Bruno , Rivkin L. , Biagini M. E. , Jowett J. M. , Hanke K. , Fischer W. , Caspers F. , Möhl D.
Published: May 2020

Lattice design in the context we will describe it here is the design and optimization of the principle elements—the lattice cells—of a circular accelerator, and it includes the dedicated variation of the accelerator elements (as for example position and strength of the magnets in the machine) to obtain well defined and predictable parameters of the stored particle beam. It is therefore closely related to the theory of linear beam optics that has been described in Chap.10.1007/978-3-030-34245-6_2[1].
Accelerator Operations
Authors: Lamont M. , Wenninger J. , Steinhagen R. , Tomás García R. , Garoby R. , Assmann R. W. , Brüning O. , Hostettler M. , Damerau H.
Published: May 2020

The cost of building a particle accelerator is a major capital investment. Commissioning should be swift and the subsequent exploitation of a facility must provide an effective return. This return may be difficult to quantify unambiguously but generally acceptable measures of performance can be established. These measures might include: machine availability; integrated luminosity; protons on target; beam hours to users and so on.
Implications of the first detection of coherent elastic neutrino-nucleus scattering (CEvNS) with liquid Argon
Authors: Miranda O.G. , Papoulias D.K. , Garcia G. Sanchez , Sanders O. , Tórtola M. , Valle J.W.F.
Published: May 2020

Abstract

The CENNS-10 experiment of the COHERENT collaboration has recently reported the first detection of coherent-elastic neutrino-nucleus scattering (CEvNS) in liquid Argon with more than 3σ significance. In this work, we exploit the new data in order to probe various interesting parameters which are of key importance to CEvNS within and beyond the Standard Model. A dedicated statistical analysis of these data shows that the current constraints are significantly improved in most cases. We derive a first measurement of the neutron rms charge radius of Argon, and also an improved determination of the weak mixing angle in the low energy regime. We also update the constraints on neutrino non-standard interactions, electromagnetic properties and light mediators with respect to those derived from the first COHERENT-CsI data.
Updating dual-specificity tyrosine-phosphorylation-regulated kinase 2 (DYRK2): molecular basis, functions and role in diseases
Authors: Correa-Sáez Alejandro , Jiménez-Izquierdo Rafael , Garrido-Rodríguez Martín , Morrugares Rosario , Muñoz Eduardo , Calzado Marco A.
Published: May 2020

Members of the dual-specificity tyrosine-regulated kinase (DYRKs) subfamily possess a distinctive capacity to phosphorylate tyrosine, serine, and threonine residues. Among the DYRK class II members, DYRK2 is considered a unique protein due to its role in disease. According to the post-transcriptional and post-translational modifications, DYRK2 expression greatly differs among human tissues. Regarding its mechanism of action, this kinase performs direct phosphorylation on its substrates or acts as a priming kinase, enabling subsequent substrate phosphorylation by GSK3β. Moreover, DYRK2 acts as a scaffold for the EDVP E3 ligase complex during the G2/M phase of cell cycle. DYRK2 functions such as cell survival, cell development, cell differentiation, proteasome regulation, and microtubules were studied in complete detail in this review. We have also gathered available information from different bioinformatic resources to show DYRK2 interactome, normal and tumoral tissue expression, and recurrent cancer mutations. Then, here we present an innovative approach to clarify DYRK2 functionality and importance. DYRK2 roles in diseases have been studied in detail, highlighting this kinase as a key protein in cancer development. First, DYRK2 regulation of c-Jun, c-Myc, Rpt3, TERT, and katanin p60 reveals the implication of this kinase in cell-cycle-mediated cancer development. Additionally, depletion of this kinase correlated with reduced apoptosis, with consequences on cancer patient response to chemotherapy. Other functions like cancer stem cell formation and epithelial–mesenchymal transition regulation are also controlled by DYRK2. Furthermore, the pharmacological modulation of this protein by different inhibitors (harmine, curcumine, LDN192960, and ID-8) has enabled to clarify DYRK2 functionality.
Immuntherapie beim malignen Melanom
Authors: Zaremba A. , Zimmer L. , Griewank K. G. , Ugurel S. , Roesch A. , Schadendorf D. , Livingstone E.
Published: May 2020

Obwohl das kutane Melanom nur etwa 4 % aller Hautkrebsarten (einschließlich des nichtmelanozytären Hautkrebses) ausmacht, ist es für 80 % aller durch Hautkrebs verursachten Todesfälle verantwortlich. Die Einführung von Immuncheckpointinhibitoren führte zu einer erheblichen Verbesserung des Langzeitüberlebens von Patienten im fortgeschrittenen Stadium unabhängig vom BRAF-Mutations-Status. Neben der zielgerichteten Therapie für Patienten mit BRAF-mutiertem Melanom sind Immuntherapien die Behandlungsoptionen der Wahl im fortgeschrittenen Stadium und seit 2018 auch in der adjuvanten Therapie. Aktuell wird in Studien die Wirksamkeit von Therapiekombinationen sowie Sequenztherapien mit zielgerichteten und Immuntherapien geprüft.
Surgical Needs of Internally Displaced Persons in Kerenik, West Darfur, Sudan
Authors: Kuwayama David P. , Chu Kathryn M. , Hartman Zachary , Idris Bashir , Wolfgang Christopher , Frist Hon William H.
Published: May 2020

Background

The burden of surgical disease in refugee and internally displaced person (IDP) populations has not been well defined. Populations fleeing conflict are mobile, limiting the effectiveness of traditional sampling methods. We employed novel sampling and survey techniques to conduct a population‐based surgical needs assessment amongst IDPs in Kerenik, West Darfur, Sudan, over 4 weeks in 2008.

Methods

Satellite imagery was used to identify man‐made structures. Ground teams were guided by GPS to randomly selected households. A newly created surgical needs survey was administered by surgeons to household members. One randomly selected individual answered demographic and medical history questions pertaining to themselves and first‐degree blood relatives. All household members were offered a physical examination looking for surgical disease.

Findings

There were 780 study participants; 82% were IDPs. A history since displacement of surgical and potentially surgical conditions was reported in 38% of respondents and by 73% of respondents in first‐degree blood relatives. Surgical histories included trauma (gunshots, stabbings, assaults) (5% respondents; 27% relatives), burns (6% respondents; 14% relatives), and obstetrical problems (5% female respondents; 11% relatives). 1485 individuals agreed to physical examinations. Untreated surgical and potentially surgical disease was identified in 25% of participants.

Interpretation

We identified and characterized a high burden of surgical and potentially surgical disease in an IDP population in West Darfur. Our study is unique in its direct assessment of a traumatized, mobile, vulnerable population. Health officials and agencies charged with the care of IDP and refugee populations should be aware of the high prevalence of surgical and potentially surgical conditions in these communities. This study adds to the growing body of evidence that investment in surgical resources may address a significant portion of the overall burden of disease in marginalized populations.
A Household Survey to Evaluate Access to Surgical Care in Vanuatu
Authors: Bunkley N. , Bissett I. , Buka M. , Bong J. , Leodoro B. , Dare A. , Perry W.
Published: May 2020

Introduction

Surgical care is an integral part of any healthcare system, yet there is a paucity of data on the burden of surgical disease, surgical capacity and access to surgical services in the Pacific region. This study aimed to evaluate access to surgical care through a pilot household survey in the Vanuatu island of Efate and five of its surrounding islands.

Methods

The 2009 Vanuatu census’ GPS coordinates were used to randomly select 150 rural and 150 urban households from Efate and its surrounding islands. A total of 143 urban households and 142 rural households were available for inclusion in this study. A household questionnaire was developed to evaluate access to surgical care and included information regarding household demographics, socio‐economic indicators and perceived and realised barriers to accessing care. The questionnaire was administered by local health workers, and data were collected electronically.

Results

Questionnaires were completed by 285 households. Two hundred and forty‐one out of 254 (94.8%) households reported being able to access Port Vila Hospital, if required. The most commonly cited potential barriers to accessing surgical care were financial constraints (42.4%) and transport (26.4%).

Conclusion

Our results provide important insights into the geographic, sociocultural and economic barriers to seeking, reaching and receiving surgical care in this region of Vanuatu. Identifying specific areas and communities with poor access to care, alongside the determinants of access, will help in designing both clinical and policy interventions to improve access to surgical care.
Chronic cough related to the upper airway cough syndrome: one entity but not always the same
Authors: Dąbrowska Marta , Arcimowicz Magdalena , Grabczak Elżbieta M. , Truba Olga , Rybka Aleksandra , Białek-Gosk Katarzyna , Klimowicz Karolina , Jamróz Barbara , Niemczyk K. , Krenke Rafał
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Upper airway cough syndrome (UACS), described as chronic cough (CC) associated with allergic (AR), non-allergic rhinitis (NAR) or chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), is one of the major causes of CC. We aimed to characterize a cohort of UACS patients with special attention to differences between patients with AR and NAR.

Methods

A prospective analysis of clinical data of patients, diagnosed with UACS between 2015 and 2018.

Results

There were 143 patients diagnosed with UACS, median age 52 years, women predominance (68.5%), The group comprised of 59 (41%) AR and 84 (59%) NAR subjects, CRS diagnosed in 17 (12%). Median cough duration: 48 months (IQR 24–120), median cough severity (VAS)—60 mm (IQR 42–78), median Leicester Cough Questionnaire (LCQ) score—11.3 (IQR 8.7–13.7), never-smokers: 70%. The most common symptoms: PND (62%), rhinorrhea (59%), nasal congestion (54%), abnormalities of sinus CT: septum deviation (62%), turbinates hypertrophy (53%), mucosal thickening (53%). UACS as the only cause of CC, was presented in 20 patients (14%). We found no differences between patients with AR and NAR in terms of age, gender, duration and severity of cough, BMI, blood eosinophil count, total IgE and FeNO. AR was associated with higher comorbidity of asthma than NAR (54% vs 35%, p = 0.019). Abnormalities in sinus CT scan were more frequently found in patients with NAR than AR (p = 0.018).

Conclusion

NAR is the most common upper airway disease associated with UACS. Clinical characteristics of UACS patients with AR and NAR are similar with only minor differences between these groups. It seems reasonable to plan further studies concerning relationship of NAR and cough sensitivity, also in terms of potential similar neurogenic mechanism.
Key gait findings for diagnosing three syndromic categories of dynamic instability in patients with balance disorders
Authors: Schniepp Roman , Möhwald Ken , Wuehr Max
Published: May 2020

With the emergence of affordable, clinical-orientated gait analysis techniques, clinicians may benefit from a general understanding of quantitative gait analysis procedures and their clinical applications. This article provides an overview of the potential of a quantitative gait analysis for decision support in three clinically relevant scenarios of early stage gait disorders: scenario I: gait ataxia and unsteadiness; scenario II: hypokinesia and slow gait; scenario III: apparently normal gait with a specific fall tendency in complex mobility situations. In a first part, we justify the advantages of standardized data collection and analysis procedures including data normalization and dimensionality reduction techniques that facilitate clinical interpretability of instrument-based gait profiles. We then outline typical patterns of pathological gait and their modulation during different walking conditions (variation of speed, sensory perturbation, and dual tasking) and highlight key aspects that are particularly helpful to support and guide clinical decision-making.
Die Bedeutung der Diagnostik in der kognitiven Verhaltenstherapie mit Kindern und Jugendlichen
Authors: Ohmann Susanne , Schuch Bibiana , Popow Christian
Published: May 2020

Verhaltenstherapeutische Diagnostik zielt darauf ab, störungsspezifische Informationen für die Problem- und Plananalyse sowie das bio-psycho-soziale Bedingungsmodell zu liefern. Speziell im Kinder- und Jugendbereich muss die Diagnostik auch die Systeme umfassen, in denen sich das Kind bewegt, und die häufig aufrechterhaltend für die Störung sind. Die Bedeutung der unterschiedlichen Formen der verhaltenstherapeutischen Diagnostik (Eingangsdiagnostik, therapiebegleitende Verlaufsdiagnostik und katamnestische Diagnostik) wird anhand von klinischen Beispielen dargestellt.
Analysis of hull, propeller and engine interactions in regular waves by a combination of experiment and simulation
Authors: Ghaemi M. Hossein , Zeraatgar Hamid
Published: May 2020

The goal of this study is to investigate ship propulsion system dynamics under sea wave conditions by including the interaction of hull, propeller, and engine. A mathematical ship propulsion system model was made and the related computer code was developed. To get the results as close as possible to real conditions, measured data for physical models, including the ship’s resistance in calm and sea waves and propeller performance, were implemented in the model. For a diesel engine, performances provided by the manufacturer were used. The wave force time series, as exciting force, changed the propulsion system state from steady to transient. It activated system variables including ship’s speed, advance number, propeller and engine torque, propeller and engine rotational speeds, effective and generated powers, and net thrust. The analysis was performed for a container ship for two regular waves. Using the developed computer code, the ship’s speed and system variables, as well as the consumed fuel and the voyage distance, were calculated and compared with the calm water condition. The voyage mode was set on constant rotational engine speed implementing a P-action governor with fuel rate and engine torque limiters. The outcomes of the research explain the influence of the governor and its limiters on fuel consumption, identify the nonlinear impact of sea waves on propeller characteristics, and underline the effect of voyage mode on system response and the consumed fuel. The results also show that the conventional method for calculating speed reduction based on the added resistance is not capable of justifying the system’s dynamic behaviour.
Effects on inactivation of Tetraselmis suecica following treatment by KBAL: a UV-based ballast water treatment system with an in-line vacuum drop
Authors: Olsen Ranveig Ottoey , Thuestad Gunnar , Hoell Ingunn Alne
Published: May 2020

The transfer of non-native, possibly invasive species in ship’s ballast water is of global concern, and the International Maritime Organization and U.S. Coast Guard have adopted standards to minimize the environmental footprint caused by the maritime industry. In this study, seawater spiked with the phytoplankter Tetraselmis suecica, was treated with Knutsen Ballast Water Treatment Technology (KBAL), combining UV irradiation with an in-line vacuum drop. The test water was subsequently incubated in dark tanks, simulating what happens onboard a ship, where ballast water is treated at intake, stored in dark ballast tanks during the voyage, and then treated at discharge. Our results of the test water treated with KBAL and stored 5 days in the dark showed < 10 viable T. suecica cells ml−1 when assessing reproduction and > 10 living cells ml−1 when assessing metabolism. This highlights the challenge UV-based BWTS can encounter when meeting testing regimes assessing different characteristics of life. By comparing the effects caused by KBAL treatment with effects caused by UV irradiation only, we demonstrated that the pressure/vacuum technology seems to improve the disinfection effect. In addition, our investigations point out possible challenges with in situ conditions getting representative ballast water samples.
Possible new options and benefits to detect myocarditis, right ventricular remodeling and coronary anomalies by echocardiography in systematic preparticipation screening of athletes
Authors: Döbel Tom , Stöbe Stephan , Marshall Robert Percy , Hepp Pierre , Fikenzer Sven , Fikenzer Kati , Tautenhahn Sandra , Laufs Ulrich , Hagendorff Andreas
Published: May 2020

Exclusion of cardiac abnormalities should be performed at the beginning of the athlete’s career. Myocarditis, right ventricular remodeling and coronary anomalies are well-known causes of life-threatening events of athletes, major cardiovascular events and sudden cardiac death. The feasibility of an extended comprehensive echocardiographic protocol for the detection of structural cardiac abnormalities in athletes should be tested. This standardized protocol of transthoracic echocardiography includes two- and three-dimensional imaging, tissue Doppler imaging, and coronary artery scanning. Post processing was performed for deformation analysis of all compounds including layer strain. During 2017 and 2018, the feasibility of successful image acquisition and post processing analysis was retrospectively analyzed in 54 male elite athletes. In addition, noticeable findings inside the analyzed cohort are described. The extended image acquisition and data analyzing was feasible from 74 to 100%, depending on the used modalities. One case of myocarditis was detected in the present cohort. Coronary anomalies were not found. Right ventricular size and function were within normal ranges. Isovolumetric right ventricular relaxation time showed significant regional differences. One case of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and two subjects with bicuspid aortic valves were found. Due to the excessive cardiac stress in highly competitive sports, high-quality and precise screening modalities are necessary, especially with respect to acquired cardiac diseases like acute myocarditis and pathological changes of left ventricular and RV geometry. The documented feasibility of the proposed extended protocol underlines the suitability to detect distinct morphological and functional cardiac alterations and documents the potential added value of a comprehensive echocardiography.
Early-Career Complexity Before and After Labour-Market Deregulation in Italy: Heterogeneity by Gender and Socio-economic Status Across Cohorts
Authors: Struffolino Emanuela , Raitano Michele
Published: May 2020

Labour-market deregulation may have generated more unstable and complex employment life courses. As exposure to highly volatile early-career trajectories has long-lasting consequences for the working lives of individuals, it is especially important to consider how these processes have affected younger workers in countries like Italy. Here, deregulation ‘at the margins’ of the labour market has been characterized by a strong age divide and has exacerbated the separation between insiders and outsiders. We contrast the individualization of risk perspective with the persistent inequality hypothesis by looking at differentials by gender and socio-economic status in the degree of early-career complexity of workers who entered the labour market before and after deregulation. The use of an innovative longitudinal dataset (AD-SILC) which combines administrative records on employment episodes and survey data on individuals’ socio-economic characteristics allows this study to apply advanced methods in sequence analysis to calculate the complexity of 7-year-long early career trajectories. Complexity is measured by considering the number of transitions between employment states and the length of each episode. We find that early-career complexity increased across cohorts, especially for those more exposed to deregulation. Against the scenario of a generalized increase in labour market dualization, this non-linear dynamic especially affected medium and low-educated individuals and was particularly pronounced for women. Although our analytical strategy does not allow for a causal interpretation of mechanisms engendering the observed trends, this empirical evidence is highly relevant for the implication of changes in early career patterns across cohorts for stratification research.
Are annoyance scores based on sound pressure levels suitable for snoring assessment in the home environment?
Authors: Fischer René , Unverdorben Franziska , Kuehnel Thomas S. , Vielsmeier Veronika , Spanier Gerrit , Marcrum Steven C. , Rohrmeier Christian
Published: May 2020

Purpose

An objective statement about the annoyance of snoring can be made with the Psychoacoustic Snore Score (PSS). The PSS was developed based on subjective assessments and is strongly influenced by observed sound pressure levels. Robustness against day-to-day interfering noises is a fundamental requirement for use at home. This study investigated whether or not the PSS is suitable for use in the home environment.

Methods

Thirty-six interfering noises, which commonly occur at night, were played in the acoustic laboratory in parallel with 5 snoring sounds. The interfering noises were each presented at sound pressure levels ranging from 25 to 55 dB(A), resulting in 3255 distinct recordings. Annoyance was then assessed using the PSS.

Results

In the case of minimally annoying snoring sounds, interfering noises with a sound pressure level of 25 dB(A) caused significant PSS changes from 40 to 55 dB(A) for annoying snoring sounds. If the interfering noise was another snoring sound, the PSS was more robust depending on the sound pressure level of the interfering noise up to 10 dB(A). Steady (no-peak) interfering noises influenced the PSS more strongly than peak noises.

Conclusions

The PSS is significantly distorted by quiet interfering noises. Its meaningfulness therefore depends strongly on the acoustic environment. It may therefore be assumed that scores dependent on sound pressure level are suitable for measurements when there is minimal ambient noise, as in the sleep laboratory. However, for measurements where noise is incalculable, as in the home environment, interfering noises may distort the results.
Explaining Variation in Levels of Public (Dis)trust in Traditional Leaders: Colonial Ruling Strategies and Contemporary Roles in Governance
Authors: Zimbalist Zack
Published: May 2020

Why does public trust in traditional leaders vary dramatically across African countries? This article argues that trust in traditional leaders is higher in cases where: (1) the French colonial authority did not interfere in traditional structures and allowed leaders to operate outside of the colonial apparatus (as opposed to the British practice of augmenting the authority of traditional leaders to extract on behalf of the Crownwithinthe colonial structure); (2) leaders in the post-independence era were not hostile towards traditional leaders; and (3) citizens believe traditional leaders play a positive role in meeting local needs vis-à-vis contemporary elected officials.
A dynamic thermo-mechanical actuator system with contact and Barber's heat exchange boundary conditions
Authors: Paoli L. , Shillor M.
Published: May 2020

This work, motivated by the rapid developments in Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) structures, especially actuators and grippers, analyses the dynamics of a thermo-mechanical system consisting of a horizontal beam joined at one end to a vertical rod. As a result of thermal expansion or vibration of the rod, the other end may come into contact with another part of the MEMS device and that closes an electrical circuit, which is the actuating or switching function of such a beam–rod system. The interaction between the rod's contacting end and the supporting device is described by a normal compliance contact law for the displacements and by an inclusion-type Barber's heat exchange condition for the temperature. The heat-exchange coefficient is a multi-function taking into account the air resistance in the gap when there is no contact and the contact pressure when contact occurs. The model consists of a nonlinear variational inclusion for the temperature coupled with a nonlinear variational equation for the displacements. The existence of a weak solution to the problem is proved by using the Galerkin method, a regularization of Barber's condition with the Yosida approximation of a maximal monotone operator, and a priori estimates.
Current practices in building and reporting age-depth models
Authors: Lacourse Terri , Gajewski Konrad
Published: May 2020

Age-depth models provide essential temporal frameworks in paleoenvironmental science. We use a sample of 80 recently-published age-depth models to comment on current practices in building and reporting radiocarbon-based age-depth models. We address options for model building, sampling strategies, dating densities, and best practices for reporting age-depth models and associated data. Our review reveals incomplete reporting of14C ages, model-building methods, age-depth models and associated meta-data in many recent studies. All information needed to evaluate, reproduce and update an age-depth model should accompany every published model. We also present a case study of building age-depth models for a lake sediment core that has both14C ages and an independent varve chronology. The case study illustrates that choosing the ‘best model’ is not a simple task, and that model accuracy is ultimately controlled by differences between14C ages and true age that likely occur in many late Quaternary records.
Structural Characterization and Thermal Decomposition of Lime Binders Allow Accurate Radiocarbon Age Determinations of Aerial Lime Plaster
Authors: Toffolo Michael B , Regev Lior , Mintz Eugenia , Kaplan-Ashiri Ifat , Berna Francesco , Dubernet Stéphan , Yan Xin , Regev Johanna , Boaretto Elisabetta
Published: May 2020

Radiocarbon (14C) dating of anthropogenic carbonates (CaCO3) such as ash, lime plaster and lime mortar, has proven a difficult task due to the occurrence of a number of contaminants embedded within the CaCO3 pyrogenic binder. These include 14C-free geologic components and/or secondary phases bearing an unknown amount of 14C, and thus the alteration of the original pyrogenic isotopic signature of the material results in major age offsets when carbon recovery is performed through acid hydrolysis. Here we present a characterization/quantification approach to anthropogenic carbonates that includes Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction, thin section petrography, thermogravimetric analysis and scanning electron microscopy coupled with high-resolution cathodoluminescence, with which we identified the pyrogenic CaCO3 fraction in an aerial lime plaster and two hydraulic mortars. The preserved pyrogenic component was then isolated by density separation and its purity checked again using FTIR. Carbon was recovered through thermal decomposition in vacuum. The resulting 14C age matches the expected age of the lime plaster, whereas hydraulic mortars are slightly offset due to the carbonation of calcium hydroxide lumps. This approach highlights the importance of a dedicated characterization strategy prior to dating and may be applied to aerial lime plasters to obtain accurate ages.
Allowing ‘leeway to expediency, without abandoning principle’? The International Court of Justice’s use of avoidance techniques
Authors: Fouchard Felix
Published: May 2020

As the principal judicial organ of the United Nations, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) has an ambitious mandate. However, due to its institutional design, the ICJ depends in large part on whether the states allow it to play this role, and their resistance can prove particularly damaging for the ICJ in this regard. Against this background, the article argues that resort to judicial avoidance techniques may be a pragmatic way for the ICJ to adapt to this reality, and that it seems likely that the ICJ has been relying on such techniques on several occasions. With reference to the ICJ’s case law, the article highlights different avoidance techniques at the ICJ’s disposal, proposes a categorization based on their effects, and evaluates the potential and risks each category holds for the ICJ. Accordingly, the article distinguishes between merits-avoidance techniques, issue-avoidance techniques, and resort to deferential standards of review. It demonstrates that relying on merits-avoidance techniques and issue-avoidance techniques is counterproductive and sometimes even dangerous for the ICJ. In contrast, resort to deferential standards of review allows the ICJ to reconcile its ambitious legal mandate with the political realities, and accordingly holds the greatest potential for the ICJ.
Bridging the Twenty-first Century Gap in Education – History, Causation, and Solutions
Authors: Demetriou Andreas
Published: May 2020

This article discusses the gaps in the cognitive demands of education as higher levels of education became socially and culturally necessary. These gaps are related to major transitions between education levels, such as the transition from preschool to primary school, from primary to secondary, or from secondary to tertiary education. Gaps reflect deviations between the concepts and skills prescribed for learning by a specific population and the readiness of this population to cope with the demands of the task within the time frame prescribed. The history and the cognitive developmental profile of the gaps is outlined. This article focuses on the gap between secondary and tertiary education. It is explained that a major reason for the gap is the vast expansion in the population of youth attending university studies. We outline a programme for bridging this gap, which extends from primary to university education. We emphasize changes in principle-based and critical thought that are needed by many students if they are be able to grasp science as intended by universities.
Universal Lemmatizer: A sequence-to-sequence model for lemmatizing Universal Dependencies treebanks
Authors: Kanerva Jenna , Ginter Filip , Salakoski Tapio
Published: May 2020

In this paper, we present a novel lemmatization method based on a sequence-to-sequence neural network architecture and morphosyntactic context representation. In the proposed method, our context-sensitive lemmatizer generates the lemma one character at a time based on the surface form characters and its morphosyntactic features obtained from a morphological tagger. We argue that a sliding window context representation suffers from sparseness, while in majority of cases the morphosyntactic features of a word bring enough information to resolve lemma ambiguities while keeping the context representation dense and more practical for machine learning systems. Additionally, we study two different data augmentation methods utilizing autoencoder training and morphological transducers especially beneficial for low-resource languages. We evaluate our lemmatizer on 52 different languages and 76 different treebanks, showing that our system outperforms all latest baseline systems. Compared to the best overall baseline, UDPipe Future, our system outperforms it on 62 out of 76 treebanks reducing errors on average by 19% relative. The lemmatizer together with all trained models is made available as a part of the Turku-neural-parsing-pipeline under the Apache 2.0 license.