bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heavy metal adsorption ability of a new composite material based on starch strengthened with chemically modified cellulose
Authors: Anghel Narcis , Marius Niculaua , Spiridon Iuliana
Published: February 2019

Adsorption of heavy metals (Pb, Zn, and Cu) on a new bioadsorbent based on starch reinforced with modified cellulose with toluene‐diisocyanate has been studied using batch‐adsorption technology. The study was carried out in order to find if this bio material, designed for seedling pots manufacture, is able to act like a barrier between soil pollutants and plants. The influence of contact time, pH, adsorbent dose, and salt concentrations was also evaluated. The obtained data were examined using the Langmuir and Freundlich adsorption models. Optimal results were obtained at pH 5.0, temperature of 25°C, contact time of 120 minutes, and an adsorbent dose of 4 mg/mL. Experimental data along with computed Langmuir parameters show that the adsorption process is favorable, and the maximum adsorption capacity of the adsorbent for lead, zinc, and copper was 66.66, 58.82, and 47.61 mg/g, respectively.
Disparities in the delivery of pediatric oncology nursing care by country income classification: International survey results
Authors: Morrissey Lisa , Lurvey Megan , Sullivan Courtney , Challinor Julia , Forbes Peter W. , Abramovitz Linda , Afungchwi Glenn M. , Hollis Rachel , Day Sara
Published: February 2019

Background

In 2014, a task force of the International Society of Paediatric Oncology (SIOP) Paediatric Oncology in Developing Countries Nursing Workgroup published six baseline standards to provide a framework for pediatric oncology nursing care in low‐ and lower‐middle income countries (L/LMIC). We conducted an international survey in 2016–2017 to examine the association between country income level and nurses’ resporting of conformity to the standards at their respective institutions.

Procedure

Data from a cross‐sectional web‐based survey completed by nurses representing 54 countries were analyzed (N = 101). Responses were clustered by relevance to each standard and compared according to the 2017 World Bank–defined country income classification (CIC) of hospitals.

Results

CIC and nurse‐to‐patient ratios in inpatient wards were strongly associated (P < 0.0001). Nurses in L/LMIC prepared chemotherapy more often (P < 0.0001) yet were less likely to have access to personal protective equipment such as nitrile gloves (P = 0.0007) and fluid‐resistant gowns (P = 0.011) than nurses in high‐resource settings. Nurses in L/LMIC were excluded more often from physician/caregiver meetings to discuss treatment options (P = 0.04) and at the time of diagnosis (P = 0.002). Key educational topics were missing from nursing orientation programs across all CICs. An association between CIC and the availability of written policies (P = 0.009) was found.

Conclusions

CIC and the ability to conform to pediatric oncology baseline nursing standards were significantly associated in numerous elements of the baseline standards, a likely contributor to suboptimal patient outcomes in L/LMIC. To achieve the goal of high‐quality cancer care for children worldwide, nursing disparities must be addressed.
Continuity of care in a crisis resolution home treatment team
Authors: Titheradge Daniel , Galea Adrian
Published: February 2019

Staff consistency is recognised nationally as an issue for crisis resolution home treatment (CRHT) teams. Here the authors discuss their evaluation of a CRHT team to establish the number and consistency of staff contacts with service users during a typical CRHT care episode. They propose initiatives to improve the continuity of patient care and highlight a need for further research in this model of care.
Complicated pneumococcal pneumonia with pleural effusion or empyema in the 13‐valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine era
Authors: Díaz‐Conradi Alvaro , Hernández Sergi , García‐García Juan José , Muñoz‐Almagro Carmen , Moraga‐Llop Fernando , Ciruela Pilar , Izquierdo Conchita , Campins Magda , de Sevilla Mariona F. , González‐Peris Sebastià , Uriona Sonia , Martínez‐Osorio Johanna , Solé‐Ribalta Anna , Codina Gemma , Esteva Cristina , Planes Ana María , Soldevila Nuria , Salleras Luis , Domínguez Angela
Published: February 2019

Aim

The aim was to analyze the epidemiological, microbiological and clinical characteristics of patients with complicated pneumococcal pneumonia with pleural effusion (PE) or empyema.

Method

Prospective study in three Catalan hospitals in persons aged <18 years diagnosed with complicated pneumonia with PE or empyema with isolation of Streptococcus pneumoniae in blood or pleural fluid by culture or real‐time PCR between January 2012 and June 2016. Patients were divided into <2 years and 2‐17 years age groups. Epidemiological, microbiological, and clinical data of patients were compared annually in both groups. PCV13 vaccination coverage increased from 48.2% in 2012 to 74.5% in 2015.

Results

We included 143 patients. The incidence of pneumococcal pneumonia was 6.83 cases × 10−5 persons/year in cases with PE or empyema and 2.09 cases × 10−5 person‐years in cases without (rate ratio [RR]: 3.27; 2.25‐4.86; P < 0.001). Empyema was more frequent than PE (79.7% vs 20.3%, P < 0.005). Of 143 cases studied, 93 (65.0%, P < 0.001) were diagnosed by real‐time‐PCR, 43 (30.1%) by culture and RT‐PCR and 7 (4.9%) by culture only. PCV13 serotypes were more frequent in complicated than in uncomplicated pneumonia (116/142, 81.7% vs 27/45, 60.0%; P = 0.003), especially serotype 1 (41/142, 28.9% vs 6/45, 13.3%, P : 0.036). From 2012 to 2015 there was a significant reduction in serotype 1 (16/43, 37.2% vs 3/27, 11.1%, P = 0.026), and a trend to an increase in non‐PCV13 serotypes (6/43, 14% vs 9/27, 33.3%, P = 0.054).

Conclusions

A directly proportional relationship was observed between the reduction in pneumonia complicated with PE or empyema and a significant reduction in PCV13 serotypes, especially serotype 1, coinciding with increased PCV13 coverage.
Stability of impulsive coupled systems on networks with both multicoupling structure and time‐varying delays
Authors: Wang Pengfei , Sun Zhenyao , Fan Meng , Su Huan
Published: February 2019

This paper explores the stability of impulsive coupled systems on networks with both multicoupling structure and time‐varying delays (ICSNMT). The coupling structure can be nonlinear and the time‐varying delays in which can be different, which can well describe more realistic networks. In order to describe this multicoupling structure, we build ICSNMT on a digraph with multiple arcs. Two cases are discussed, ie, (i) the continuous dynamics is stable and (ii) the impulsive dynamics is stable. Then, by means of impulsive differential inequalities with multiple delays and weighted Lyapunov functions method where the weights are closely linked to the network's topological structure, some stability criteria are established. Then, the theoretical results are illustrated by examples of bidirectional associative memory neural networks and coupled modified Chua's circuits, respectively. The numerical simulations are also carried out to demonstrate the effectiveness and feasibility of our theoretical findings.
Intra‐spacecraft optical communication solutions using discrete transceiver
Authors: Mughal Muhammad Rizwan , Ali Anwar , Praks Jaan , Reyneri Leonardo M.
Published: February 2019

The ever‐decreasing size of the small satellites with more demanding payloads has opened new research areas to investigate innovative onboard data‐handling solutions. This paper presents the use of optical intra‐satellite communication using discretely designed transceivers. The transceiver can handle large variations in the received photocurrents and implements filtration against the ambient light. The designed transceiver has been tested with selected optical components including infrared diodes, photo detectors, and optical guides to validate its functionality. The displacement damage testing on selected optical components was performed to validate their suitability for use in space. The experimental communication schemes have been presented for free space as well as glass fiber‐based intra‐spacecraft communication.
Surface characterisation of TiCxN1 − x coatings processed by cathodic arc physical vapour deposition: XPS and XRD analysis
Authors: Siow Ping Chuan , Ghani Jaharah A. , Rizal Muhammad , Jaafar Talib Ria , Ghazali Mariyam Jameelah , Che Haron Che Hassan
Published: February 2019

The properties of titanium carbonitride (TiCN) can be controlled by maintaining the C―N ratio within the coating to a certain level. An experimental study was carried out to vary the composition and properties of TiCN using cathodic arc physical vapour deposition (CAPVD). The substrate used was tungsten carbide (WC‐6Co), which was prepared in‐house through a powder metallurgy process. In order to form the TiCxN1 − x coatings, titanium (Ti) was used as the cathode, while methane (CH4) and nitrogen (N2) gases were used as sources for C and N, respectively. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) were used to investigate the composition, chemical state, and bonding structure of the deposited coatings. The results show that the composition, intensity of elements, lattice parameter, and d‐value of TiCxN1 − x coatings were successfully varied by controlling the CH4 fraction (CH4/N2 ratio). With the increase in CH4 fraction, the intensity of C and N within the TiCxN1 − x coatings increased and decreased, respectively. Consequently, the C―Ti and C―N bonds were increased and N―Ti bonds were decreased.
Sensitivity analyses for average treatment effects when outcome is censored by death in instrumental variable models
Authors: Lee Kwonsang , Lorch Scott A. , Small Dylan S.
Published: February 2019

Two problems that arise in making causal inferences for nonmortality outcomes such as bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) are unmeasured confounding and censoring by death, ie, the outcome is observed only when subjects survive. In randomized experiments with noncompliance and no censoring by death, instrumental variable (IV) methods can be used to control for the unmeasured confounding. But, when there is censoring by death, the average causal treatment effect cannot be identified under usual assumptions but can be studied for a specific subpopulation by using sensitivity analysis with additional assumptions. However, evaluating the local average treatment effect (LATE) in observational studies with censoring by death problems while controlling for unmeasured confounding is not well studied. We develop a novel sensitivity analysis method based on IV models for studying the LATE. Specifically, we present the identification results under an additional assumption and propose a three‐step procedure for the LATE estimation. Also, we propose an improved two‐step procedure by simultaneously estimating the instrument propensity score (ie, the probability of instrument given covariates) and the parameters induced by the assumption. We show with simulation studies that the two‐step procedure can be more robust and efficient than the three‐step procedure. Finally, we apply our sensitivity analysis methods to a study on the effect of delivery at high‐level neonatal intensive care units on the risk of BPD.
Magnetically Separable Transition Metal Ferrites: Versatile Heterogeneous Nano‐Catalysts for the Synthesis of Diverse Bioactive Heterocycles
Authors: Kaur Gurpreet , Devi Pooja , Thakur Sheetal , Kumar Aman , Chandel Rajesh , Banerjee Bubun
Published: February 2019

This review compiles the up to date literatures on the preparations and applications of the transition metal ferrites as an efficient, heterogeneous, magnetically separable nano‐catalyst for the synthesis of diverse bioactive heterocycles.
3D Lattice Engineering of Nanoparticles by DNA Shells
Authors: Ji Min , Ma Ningning , Tian Ye
Published: February 2019

With the development of structural DNA nanotechnology, DNA has now far exceeded its original function: as a genetic code. It can, in principle, self‐assemble into desired shapes with accurate size. Moreover, it can perform as a functional linker to program other materials by grafting DNA onto these materials. Nanoparticles, both inorganic and organic, can now be programmatically assembled into complex 3D superlattices with high order when guided by DNA. By encoding functions into the as‐assembled nanoparticles, materials with excellent collective effects may be invented. Here, how nanoparticles with different shapes or functions are successfully fabricated into 3D lattices with the help of DNA shells coated on the surface and how scientists can produce desired lattices by design are reviewed. The cases to achieve dynamic superlattices of nanoparticles by affecting the environment where DNA survives are also discussed.
Stimuli‐Directed Colorimetric Interconversion of Helical Polymers Accompanied by a Tunable Self‐Assembly Process
Authors: Rodríguez Rafael , Quiñoá Emilio , Riguera Ricardo , Freire Félix
Published: February 2019

Interconversion between extended and bent structures at the pendant groups of a chiral polyene framework [poly(phenylacetylene) with (R)‐(2‐methoxy‐2‐phenylacetyl)glycine residues linked to 4‐vinylanilines] allows the reversible colorimetric transformation from stretched to compressed helical cis‐transoid polyenic structures through manipulation of the flexible spacer. This transformation generates either organogels (stretched helical form) or nanoparticles (compressed helical form) under the control of polar/low polar stimuli respectively and opens the way to the development of new sensors and stimuli‐sensitive materials based on these concepts.
WSe2 Photovoltaic Device Based on Intramolecular p–n Junction
Authors: Tang Yicheng , Wang Zhen , Wang Peng , Wu Feng , Wang Yueming , Chen Yunfeng , Wang Hailu , Peng Meng , Shan Chongxin , Zhu Zhihong , Qin Shiqiao , Hu Weida
Published: February 2019

High quality p–n junctions based on 2D layered materials (2DLMs) are urgent to exploit, because of their unique properties such as flexibility, high absorption, and high tunability which may be utilized in next‐generation photovoltaic devices. Based on transfer technology, large amounts of vertical heterojunctions based on 2DLMs are investigated. However, the complicated fabrication process and the inevitable defects at the interfaces greatly limit their application prospects. Here, an in‐plane intramolecular WSe2 p–n junction is realized, in which the n‐type region and p‐type region are chemically doped by polyethyleneimine and electrically doped by the back‐gate, respectively. An ideal factor of 1.66 is achieved, proving the high quality of the p–n junction realized by this method. As a photovoltaic detector, the device possesses a responsivity of 80 mA W−1 (≈20% external quantum efficiency), a specific detectivity of over 1011 Jones and fast response features (200 µs rising time and 16 µs falling time) at zero bias, simultaneously. Moreover, a large open‐circuit voltage of 0.38 V and an external power conversion efficiency of ≈1.4% realized by the device also promises its potential in microcell applications.
Supporting software evolution through feedback on executing/skipping energy tests for proposed source code changes
Authors: Sahin Cagri , Pollock Lori , Clause James
Published: February 2019

With the increasing use of battery‐powered devices comes the need to test mobile applications for energy consumption and energy issues. Unfortunately, energy testing is expensive because it is a manual, labor‐intensive process that often requires multiple, separate, energy‐measuring devices to collect energy usage data. The high costs of energy testing can negatively affect the planning process of application evolution. For example, developers might be limited in the number of changes they can include in a release because they must conservatively plan to conduct energy testing after each change.

In this paper, we present a new approach to provide developers with feedback on executing/skipping energy tests for proposed code changes. Our technique leverages change impact analysis and precomputed API energy usage information. More specifically, for a proposed change, the technique predicts whether energy testing will be required, and if so, which energy tests will need to be run. Such information may allow developers to avoid spending unnecessary time for energy testing and develop an effective application evolution timeline. To investigate the feasibility of our technique, we implemented a prototype for Android applications and conducted three case studies at different granularity levels on 10 Android applications.
Non‐Enzymatic Assembly of a Minimized RNA Polymerase Ribozyme
Authors: Wachowius Falk , Holliger Philipp
Published: February 2019

Central to the “RNA world” hypothesis of the origin of life is the emergence of an RNA catalyst capable of RNA replication. However, possible replicase ribozymes are quite complex and were likely predated by simpler non‐enzymatic replication reactions. The templated polymerisation of phosphorimidazolide (Imp) activated ribonucleotides currently appears as the most tractable route to both generate and replicate short RNA oligomer pools from which a replicase could emerge. Herein we demonstrate the rapid assembly of complex ribozymes from such Imp‐activated RNA fragment pools. Specifically, we show assembly of a newly selected minimal RNA polymerase ribozyme variant (150 nt) by RNA templated ligation of 5’‐2‐methylimidazole‐activated RNA oligomers <30 nucleotides long. Our results provide support for the possibility that complex RNA structures could have emerged from pools of activated RNA oligomers and outlines a path for the transition from non‐enzymatic/chemical to enzymatic RNA replication.
Experimental and numerical evaluation of rigid column to baseplate connection under cyclic loading
Authors: Abdolahzadeh Gholamreza , Shabanian Seyed Mostafa , Tavakol Amirsina
Published: February 2019

One of the most important connections in steel structures is column to the baseplate connection. This kind of connection has a complex nature, due to different behaviors of the constituents, including baseplate, grout, foundation, and anchor bolts. Studying the impact of this connection in general behavior of structure seems to be an essential issue, especially during earthquake, which is more likely to be associated with plastic hinge forming. The main goal of this work is to provide a hybrid modeling for describing hysteresis behavior of column to the baseplate connection. Within hybrid modeling, a mechanical model is accomplished by using neural network model components. Our findings reveal that hybrid models are able to show pinched hysteresis complex behavior of baseplate connections. Also, the proposed hybrid developed model is robust and reliable approaches for predicting behaviors of a recent designed connection.
Fault analysis for the same‐phase power supply scheme
Authors: Huang Yu‐Wen , Chen Tsai‐Hsiang
Published: February 2019

Following the theory and method of the ‘same‐phase power supply scheme’, as declared in United States and Taiwan patents, a novel power supply method is proposed to reduce damage to users when the supply power is in shortage. This paper proposes using the equivalent model function blocks, as built by MATLAB/Simulink, for simulations of the probable line‐to‐line and single line‐to‐ground faults in a distribution system when the power supply mode is switched from ‘normal’ to ‘same‐phase’. The simulation results prove that, when the power supply is switched to the ‘same‐phase’ power supply mode, all the short‐circuit fault currents are a little lower than that in the ‘normal’ power supply mode, and the maximum difference is less than 3%. Therefore, when the supplying power of the system is in shortage or the power distribution system has a short‐circuit fault between phase lines, the system can be directly switched to the ‘same‐phase’ power supply mode and can continue supplying power to the essential and basic loads for life‐support and people's livelihoods. © 2019 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Effect of aeration and hydraulic loading rate on nitrogen removal by subsurface infiltration systems
Authors: Zheng Fanping , Huang Linli , Pan Jing , Qi Shiyue , Tan Chaoquan , Xiao Lu
Published: February 2019

This study investigated the effect of hydraulic loading rate (HLR) on matrix dissolved oxygen (DO), organic matter removal, nitrogen removal, N2O emissions, and the abundances of functional genes participating in nitrogen removal in intermittent aerated mode (IAM) and nonaerated mode (NAM) subsurface infiltration systems (SISs). In contrast to NAM SISs, IAM SISs were able to create aerobic conditions in the upper matrix (above 50 cm depth) and anoxic or anaerobic conditions in the lower matrix (below 80 cm depth). Subsequently, this enhanced the abundance of functional genes related to nitrogen removal. Chemical oxygen demand (COD) and nitrogen removal performance were significantly higher under IAM SISs than with NAM SISs. Under a HLR of 0.3 m3/(m2 d), the IAM SIS was able to achieve low N2O emissions (12.6 mg/[m2 d]) along with removal efficiencies of 90.5%, 91.4%, and 85.7% for COD, ammonia nitrogen (‐N), and total nitrogen (TN), respectively.

Practitioner points

Intermittent aeration successfully realized sequential aerobic and anaerobic conditions at 50 cm depth and at 80 and 110 cm depths of a subsurface infiltration system.

Intermittent aeration reduced N2O emissions and improved hydraulic loading rate and organic matter, nitrogen removal efficiencies.

Intermittent aeration enhanced the abundances of amoA, nxrA, napA, narG, nirS, nirK, qnorB, and nosZ.
Energy dispersive X‐ray fluorescence determination of Fe in solid powder samples: A quality improvement perspective
Authors: Chavan Trupti A. , Ajith Nicy , Periyamana Sankaran nampoothiri Remya Devi , Swain Kallola Kumar
Published: February 2019

The various factors affecting energy dispersive X‐ray fluorescence determination of iron in solid powder samples were evaluated, to improve the quality of these measurements. Influence of samples/standards preparation and instrumental parameters such as applied voltage to the X‐ray tube, tube output current, and duration of acquisition were assessed, and the optimized instrumental parameters were 12 kV, 200 μA, and 200 s, respectively. Linear dynamic range of the spectrometer was found to be 0.0052 to 5.042 g kg−1. Detection limits of iron in various organic/inorganic samples were found to be 2.5 to 21.9 mg kg−1. The values obtained during the present method were evaluated with neutron activation analysis.
Heterologous co-expression of two β-glucanases and a cellobiose phosphorylase resulted in a significant increase in the cellulolytic activity of the Caldicellulosiruptor bescii exoproteome
Authors: Kim Sun-Ki , Chung Daehwan , Himmel Michael E , Bomble Yannick J , Westpheling Janet
Published: February 2019

The ability to deconstruct plant biomass without conventional pretreatment has made members of the genus Caldicellulosiruptor the target of investigation for the consolidated processing of plant lignocellulosic biomass to biofuels and bioproducts. To investigate the synergy of enzymes involved and to further improve the ability of C. bescii to degrade cellulose, we introduced CAZymes that act synergistically with the C. bescii exoproteome in vivo and in vitro. We recently demonstrated that the Acidothermus cellulolyticus E1 endo-1,4-β-D-glucanase (GH5) with a family 2 carbohydrate-binding module (CBM) increased the activity of C. bescii exoproteome on biomass, presumably acting in concert with CelA. The β-glucanase, GuxA, from A. cellulolyticus is a multi-domain enzyme with strong processive exoglucanase activity, and the cellobiose phosphorylase from Thermotoga maritima catalyzes cellulose degradation acting synergistically with cellobiohydrolases and endoglucanases. We identified new chromosomal insertion sites to co-express these enzymes and the resulting strain showed a significant increase in the enzymatic activity of the exoproteome.
Identification of biosynthetic genes for the β-carboline alkaloid kitasetaline and production of the fluorinated derivatives by heterologous expression
Authors: Ueda Shohei , Ikeda Haruo , Namba Takushi , Ikejiri Yukinori , Nishimoto Yuri , Arai Masayoshi , Nihira Takuya , Kitani Shigeru
Published: February 2019

β-Carboline alkaloids exhibit a broad spectrum of pharmacological and biological activities and are widely distributed in nature. Genetic information on the biosynthetic mechanism of β-carboline alkaloids has not been accumulated in bacteria, because there are only a few reports on the microbial β-carboline compounds. We previously isolated kitasetaline, a mercapturic acid derivative of a β-carboline compound, from the genetically modified Kitasatospora setae strain and found a plausible biosynthetic gene cluster for kitasetaline. Here, we identified and characterized three kitasetaline (ksl) biosynthetic genes for the formation of the β-carboline core structure and a gene encoding mycothiol-S-conjugate amidase for the modification of the N-acetylcysteine moiety by using heterologous expression. The proposed model of kitasetaline biosynthesis shows unique enzymatic systems for β-carboline alkaloids. In addition, feeding fluorotryptophan to the heterologous Streptomyces hosts expressing the ksl genes led to the generation of unnatural β-carboline alkaloids exerting novel/potentiated bioactivities.
Dynamics and motion of a gas bubble in a viscoplastic medium under acoustic excitation
Authors: Karapetsas G. , Photeinos D. , Dimakopoulos Y. , Tsamopoulos J.
Published: February 2019

We investigate the dynamics of the buoyancy-driven rise of a bubble inside a viscoplastic material when it is subjected to an acoustic pressure field. To this end, we develop a simplified model based on the Lagrangian formalism assuming a pulsating bubble with a spherical shape. Moreover, to account for the effects of a deformable bubble, we also perform detailed two-dimensional axisymmetric simulations. Qualitative agreement is found between the simplified approach and the detailed numerical simulations. Our results reveal that the acoustic excitation enhances the mobility of the bubble, by increasing the size of the yielded region that surrounds the bubble, thereby decreasing the effective viscosity of the liquid and accelerating the motion of the bubble. This effect is significantly more pronounced at the resonance frequency, and it is shown that bubble motion takes place even for Bingham numbers (Bn) that can be orders of magnitude higher than the critical Bn for bubble entrapment in the case of a static pressure field.
A NOTE ON RADIAL SYMMETRY FOR AN INTEGRAL EQUATION OF WOLFF TYPE
Authors: WANG YUN , TIAN LIXIN
Published: February 2019

We prove that positive solutions of an integral equation of Wolff type are radially symmetric and decreasing about some point in$R^{n}$. The hypotheses allow a wider range of exponents and are easier to apply than those in previous work.
A QUANTITATIVE EXTENSION OF SZLENK’S THEOREM
Authors: KRYCZKA ANDRZEJ
Published: February 2019

We show that for a bounded subset $A$ of the $L_{1}(\unicode[STIX]{x1D707})$ space with finite measure $\unicode[STIX]{x1D707}$, the measure of weak noncompactness of $A$ based on the convex separation of sequences coincides with the measure of deviation from the Banach–Saks property expressed by the arithmetic separation of sequences. A similar result holds for a related quantity with the alternating signs Banach–Saks property. The results provide a geometric and quantitative extension of Szlenk’s theorem saying that every weakly convergent sequence in the Lebesgue space $L_{1}$ has a subsequence whose arithmetic means are norm convergent.
ON THE TRANSCENDENCE OF CERTAIN REAL NUMBERS
Authors: KUMAR VEEKESH , MANCE BILL
Published: February 2019

In this article, we prove the transcendence of certain infinite sums and products by applying the subspace theorem. In particular, we extend the results of Hančl and Rucki [‘The transcendence of certain infinite series’, Rocky Mountain J. Math.
35 (2005), 531–537].
NONPARAMETRIC IDENTIFICATION OF THE MIXED HAZARD MODEL USING MARTINGALE-BASED MOMENTS
Authors: Ruf Johannes , Wolter James Lewis
Published: February 2019

Nonparametric identification of the Mixed Hazard model is shown. The setup allows for covariates that are random, time-varying, satisfy a rich path structure and are censored by events. For each set of model parameters, an observed process is constructed. The process corresponding to the true model parameters is a martingale, the ones corresponding to incorrect model parameters are not. The unique martingale structure yields a family of moment conditions that only the true parameters can satisfy. These moments identify the model and suggest a GMM estimation approach. The moments do not require use of the hazard function.
Risk factors for development of obesity in an ethnically diverse CHD population
Authors: Weinreb Scott J. , Pianelli Abigail J. , Tanga Sreyans R. , Parness Ira A. , Shenoy Rajesh U.
Published: February 2019

Objectives

Previous cross-sectional studies have demonstrated obesity rates in children with CHD and the general paediatric population. We reviewed longitudinal data to identify factors predisposing to the development of obesity in children, hypothesising that age may be an important risk factor for body mass index growth.

Study design

Retrospective electronic health records were reviewed in all 5–20-year-old CHD patients seen between 2011 and 2015, and in age-, sex-, and race/ethnicity-matched controls. Subjects were stratified into aged cohorts of 5–10, 11–15, and 15–20. Annualised change in body mass index percentile (BMI%) over this period was compared using paired Student’s t-test. Linear regression analysis was performed with the CHD population.

Results

A total of 223 CHD and 223 matched controls met the inclusion criteria for analysis. Prevalence of combined overweight/obesity did not differ significantly between the CHD cohort (24.6–25.8%) and matched controls (23.3–29.1%). Univariate analysis demonstrated a significant difference of BMI% change in the age cohort of 5–10 (CHD +4.1%/year, control +1.7%/year, p=0.04), in male sex (CHD +1.8%/year, control −0.3%/year, p=0.01), and status-post surgery (CHD 2.03%/year versus control 0.37%, p=0.02). Linear regression analysis within the CHD subgroup demonstrated that age 5–10 years (+4.80%/year, p<0.001) and status-post surgery (+3.11%/year, p=0.013) were associated with increased BMI% growth.

Conclusions

Prevalence rates of overweight/obesity did not differ between children with CHD and general paediatric population over a 5-year period. Longitudinal data suggest that CHD patients in the age cohort 5–10 and status-post surgery may be at increased risk of BMI% growth relative to peers with structurally normal hearts.
The Namibian Children’s Heart Project: a South–South partnership to provide cardiac care
Authors: Shidhika Fenny F. , Hugo-Hamman Christopher T. , Lawrenson John B. , Du Toit Henning J. , Vosloo Susan M. , Brooks Andre , Pribut Harold S. , Perkins Susan R. , Zühlke Liesl J.
Published: February 2019

Introduction

Congenital and acquired heart diseases are highly prevalent in developing countries despite limited specialised care. Namibia established a paediatric cardiac service in 2009 with significant human resource and infrastructural constraints. Therefore, patients are referred for cardiac interventions to South Africa.

Objectives

To describe the diagnoses, clinical characteristics, interventions, post-operative morbidity and mortality, and follow-up of patients referred for care.

Methods

Demographics, diagnoses, interventions, intra- and post-operative morbidity and mortality, as well as longitudinal follow-up data of all patients referred to South Africa, were recorded and analysed.

Results

The total cohort constituted 193 patients of which 179 (93%) had CHD and 7% acquired heart disease. The majority of patients (78.8%) travelled more than 400 km to Windhoek before transfer. There were 28 percutaneous interventions. Palliative and definitive surgery was performed in 27 and 129 patients, respectively. Out of 156 patients, 80 (51.3%) had post-operative complications, of which 15 (9.6%) were a direct complication of surgery. Surgical mortality was 8/156 (5.1%, 95% confidence interval 2.2–9.8), with a 30-day mortality of 3.2%. Prolonged ICU stay was associated with a 5% increased risk of death with hazard ratio 1.05, 95% confidence interval 1.02–1.08, p=0.001. Follow-up was complete in 151 (78%) patients for more than 7 years.

Conclusions

Despite the challenges associated with a cardiac programme for referring patients seeking intervention in a neighbouring country and the adverse characteristics of multiple lesions and complexity associated with late presentation, we report good surgical and interventional outcomes. Our goal remains to develop a comprehensive sustainable cardiac service in Namibia.
Second-language proficiency modulates the brain language control network in bilingual translators: an event-related fMRI study
Authors: Mouthon Michael , Khateb Asaid , Lazeyras François , Pegna Alan J. , Lee-Jahnke Hannelore , Lehr Caroline , Annoni Jean-Marie
Published: February 2019

In bilinguals, language proficiency has been advanced to influence the involvement of domain-general control networks in language selection. We assessed, in university student translators with moderate- to high-second language (L2) proficiency depending on their translation educational level, the functional activity in the key language and control areas (the caudate nucleus, anterior cingulate, and prefrontal cortex), during task- and language-selection in an oral production context. We found that L2 proficiency influenced the relative involvement of our regions of interest during language selection vs domain-general cognitive control processes. While the left middle frontal and left caudate areas were more involved during linguistic than alphanumeric task selection in the low L2 proficiency group, these regions were similarly involved in both tasks in the high-L2 proficiency group. These findings suggest that language selection relies primarily on a network within domain-general cognitive control system with an increase in resource needs when L2 proficiency is low.
Wideband radar cross section reduction of a microstrip antenna with square slots
Authors: Jiakai Zhang , Qi Zheng , Haixiong Li , Jun Ding , Chenjiang Guo
Published: February 2019

This paper proposes a new radar cross section (RCS) reduced microstrip antenna incorporating 475 square slots on the patch. The proposed antenna achieves wideband RCS reduction with radiation performance sustained. The modified and reference antenna are simulated and analyzed in radiating and scattering mode, respectively. Prototypes of two antennas are fabricated and measured. Compared with the reference antenna, the simulated result shows the modified antenna RCS reduced in the frequency range 1.1–2.6 GHz, which contains the in-band and out-of-band frequency band simultaneously. And the maximum RCS reduction is 7.6dB at the frequency of 1.19GHz. Besides, the modified antenna can achieve the antenna RCS reduction in the case of oblique incidence. The prototypes of two antennas are fabricated and measured, and the accuracy of the simulation is proved by the measured result. Due to its advantages of simplicity, wideband RCS reduced, broad-angle RCS reduced, the method in this paper is suitable for wideband antenna RCS reduction in space-limited environment.
Safety, procedural success and outcome of the	Aspirex®S endovascular thrombectomy system in the	treatment of iliofemoral deep vein thrombosis – data from the Arnsberg	Aspirex registry
Authors: Lichtenberg Michael , Stahlhoff Wilhelm Friedrich , Özkapi Ahmet , de Graaf Rick , Breuckmann Frank
Published: February 2019

Summary. Background: Percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy (PMT) represents a treatment option in addition to conventional therapy for patients with iliofemoral deep vein thrombosis (DVT). We sought to determine the safety, patency and short-term outcome of the Aspirex®S catheter as a rotational mechanical thrombectomy device in the endovascular treatment of iliofemoral DVT. Patients and methods: 56 patients (66 % female, median age 51 years) undergoing mechanical thrombectomy with the Aspirex®S catheter for endovascular treatment of iliofemoral DVT were included in the analysis. Device- and procedure-related complications, prevention of post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) and patency rates were determined at baseline and at 1, 6 and 12 months after intervention. Results: No device-related complications or malfunction occurred. Procedure-related complications (rehospitalization, re-occlusion of target vein, prolonged hospitalization resulting from access site complication) were seen in 14 % of patients. PMT was followed by implantation of a dedicated venous stent in all patients. Low PTS reflected by a revised venous clinical severity score (rVCSS) of < 3 and a clinical, etiologic, anatomic and pathophysiologic (CEAP) score of < 3 were achieved in 64 % of the patients at 12 months. Patency was 95 % after 1 month, 94 % after 6 months and 87 % after 12 months. Conclusions: Even though long-term studies are missing, PMT of iliofemoral DVT using the Aspirex®S rotational thrombectomy device as a standalone approach exhibited an excellent patency at short term associated with substantial prevention of moderate to severe PTS and low device-related complications including bleeding.
Generation of Earth's Early Continents From a Relatively Cool Archean Mantle
Authors: Piccolo Andrea , Palin Richard M. , Kaus Boris J.P. , White Richard W.
Published: February 2019

Several lines of evidence suggest that the Archean (4.0–2.5 Ga) mantle was hotter than today's potential temperature (TP) of 1350 °C. However, the magnitude of such difference is poorly constrained, with TP estimation spanning from 1500 to 1600 °C during the Meso‐Archean (3.2–2.8 Ga). Such differences have major implications for the interpreted mechanisms of continental crust generation on the early Earth, as their efficacy is highly sensitive to the TP. Here we integrate petrological modeling with thermomechanical simulations to understand the dynamics of crust formation during Archean. Our results predict that partial melting of primitive oceanic crust produces felsic melts with geochemical signatures matching those observed in Archean cratons from a mantle TP as low as 1450 °C thanks to lithospheric‐scale RayleighTaylor‐type instabilities. These simulations also infer the occurrence of intraplate deformation events that allow an efficient transport of crustal material into the mantle, hydrating it.
Energetic Onset of Earthquakes
Authors: Denolle Marine A.
Published: February 2019

Earthquake radiation is broadband, and its temporal evolution carries the seismic signature of the rupture process. I use established and develop new observational metrics to quantify the temporal variation in radiated energy (seismic power) and in a time‐dependent scaled radiated energy. Universal functional forms of moment rate, seismic power, and scaled energy arise from a global database of source time functions. Earthquakes radiate mostly and most efficiently in the early stage of development of the rupture that is in the first 10–30% of the overall rupture duration. This result is independent of earthquake magnitude, depth, and focal mechanism. Beyond depth dependence in elastic properties with depth that explain variations in source duration and radiated energy, subtle differences in functional forms exist between shallow and deep earthquakes. Deep events have a slower development than shallow earthquakes, but they carry a higher peak in seismic power.
Seismicity Enhances Macrodispersion in Finite Porous and Fractured Domains: A Pore‐Scale Perspective
Authors: Zheng Lizhi , Wang Lichun , Deng Wen
Published: February 2019

Understanding the effects of oscillating flow field induced by seismicity on the transport process is vital for predicting the fate and transport of solute in many dynamic environments. However, there is prominent discrepancy in arguing with the response of dispersion to the oscillating flow field (i.e., the longitudinal dispersion coefficient would decrease, increase, or maintain unchanged). To unravel the underpinning physics about this controversial response, we simulated two‐hundred twenty pore‐scale numerical experiments for the seismicity‐induced oscillating flow field and associated solute transport in the idealized finite porous (i.e., fluidic plate) and fractured (i.e., parallel plates) domains. The numerically obtained breakthrough curves were fitted to the macroscopic advection‐dispersion equation to retrieve the mean velocity and apparent macrodispersion coefficient (DL). We found that DL increases to its maxima when the oscillating flow field resonates with the finite systems, that is, the period (T) of the oscillating flow field or the seismic wave approaches the pore volume (τ) of a finite domain. The resonant effects diminish and DL barely changes when T is much larger or smaller than τ. Moreover, the degree of enhancement in DL increases exponentially with the amplitude of the seismic force. Fundamental understanding of the response of macrodispersion to the oscillating flow field adds value in predicting the fate of solute in transient flow systems via the advection‐dispersion equation.
Interannual Variability of the Exchange Flow Through the Strait of Bab‐al‐Mandeb
Authors: Xie Jieshuo , Krokos George , Sofianos Sarantis , Hoteit Ibrahim
Published: February 2019

The interannual variability of the exchange flow between the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden through the Bab‐al‐Mandeb strait is examined based on a high‐resolution, nonhydrostatic hindcast model simulation covering a 19‐year period (1995–2013), using the MITgcm (MIT general circulation model). The model is validated against moored profiles and along‐strait cruise observations collected during the period from June 1995 to November 1996 and 19‐year sea surface temperature satellite observations. The model well reproduces the properties of the water masses at the strait over a wide range of spatiotemporal scales, including the typical two‐ and three‐layer seasonal patterns and the related intraseasonal‐to‐interannual cycles. The seasonality of the exchange flow is predominately determined by the time‐varying surface winds, with a higher correlation over the Gulf of Aden, reflecting the importance of local Gulf of Aden processes for the exchanges at the strait. The alternation of the two seasonal patterns is driven by a combination of the buoyancy‐driven mean circulation with the wind‐induced transport. The onset/offset of the two patterns is estimated to take place one‐to‐two weeks after the respective monsoon‐driven wind reversal. Model results indicate that the onset dates and durations of both patterns exhibit a considerable interannual variability. Additionally, the duration of the summer (winter) exchange pattern presents a significant increasing (decreasing) trend of ~1.45 day/year (~1.22 day/year) over the 19‐year period. Significant interannual variabilities and trends are observed in terms of the total volume of water, salt mass, and stored heat of the exchanges. Budget analysis of these trends suggests that the duration of the two exchange patterns is more important in determining the interannual variability and the related trends than the intensity of the exchange, or the variations in mean salinity or temperature of the exchanged water masses.
Meteoric Beryllium‐10 as a Tracer of Erosion Due to Postsettlement Land Use in West‐Central Minnesota, USA
Authors: Jelinski Nicolas A. , Campforts Benjamin , Willenbring Jane K. , Schumacher Thomas E. , Li Sheng , Lobb David A. , Papiernik Sharon K. , Yoo Kyungsoo
Published: February 2019

Meteoric beryllium‐10 (10Bem, t1/2 = 1.4 Myr) is a cosmogenic radionuclide that remains largely underutilized for deriving hillslope‐scale estimates of erosion on uplands under conditions of land use change. We applied two different models for estimating erosion rates from observed 10Bem concentrations (a one‐dimensional model predicting vertical profiles of 10Bem within hillslope soils [loss only, diffusion only, LODO] and a two‐dimensional model predicting the concurrent evolution of hillslope topography and 10Bem distributions via bioturbation, chemical mobility, and surface erosion [Be2D]). Both models were used to derive pre‐European and post‐European settlement erosion rates (Enat and Epost, respectively) across paired cultivated and uncultivated hillslopes in west‐central Minnesota, USA. Epost estimates from 10Bem were compared to Epost estimates derived from 137Cs inventories and the process‐based Water and Tillage Erosion Model (WaTEM). The results from these models suggest that erosion rates from upper positions on the cultivated hillslope have increased from an average of 0.047 mm/year under natural conditions to Epost values of 3.09 mm/year. The Be2D and LODO models, on average, produced Epost estimates that were similar in magnitude to WaTEM and 137Cs conversion models. This numerical convergence does not imply absolute 10Bem model accuracy, particularly when considering the uncertainties inherent in each approach, but it does suggest that the orders of magnitude increase in estimated erosion rates from Enat to Epost is robust. Additionally, the pattern of Epost estimates produced using 10Bem conversion models is supported by the distribution of soil inorganic carbon at the study site. Our results demonstrate that 10Bem can provide reasonable estimates of both predisturbance and postdisturbance erosion rates in landscapes that have undergone extensive human modification.
Genetic programming of macrophages generates an in vitro model for the human erythroid island niche
Authors: Lopez-Yrigoyen Martha , Yang Cheng-Tao , Fidanza Antonella , Cassetta Luca , Taylor A. Helen , McCahill Angela , Sellink Erica , von Lindern Marieke , van den Akker Emile , Mountford Joanne C. , Pollard Jeffrey W. , Forrester Lesley M.
Published: February 2019

Red blood cells mature within the erythroblastic island (EI) niche that consists of specialized macrophages surrounded by differentiating erythroblasts. Here we establish an in vitro system to model the human EI niche using macrophages that are derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), and are also genetically programmed to an EI-like phenotype by inducible activation of the transcription factor, KLF1. These EI-like macrophages increase the production of mature, enucleated erythroid cells from umbilical cord blood derived CD34+ haematopoietic progenitor cells and iPSCs; this enhanced production is partially retained even when the contact between progenitor cells and macrophages is inhibited, suggesting that KLF1-induced secreted proteins may be involved in this enhancement. Lastly, we find that the addition of three secreted factors, ANGPTL7, IL-33 and SERPINB2, significantly enhances the production of mature enucleated red blood cells. Our study thus contributes to the ultimate goal of replacing blood transfusion with a manufactured product.