bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Season and Cooking May Alter Fatty Acids Profile of Polar Lipids from Blue‐Back Fish
Authors: Farabegoli Federica , Nesci Salvatore , Ventrella Vittoria , Badiani Anna , Albonetti Sabrina , Pirini Maurizio
Published: November 2019

Polar lipids (PoL) represent a new promising dietary approach in the prevention and treatment of many human diseases, due to their potential nutritional value and unique biophysical properties. This study investigates the effects of catching season and oven baking on the fatty acid profiles (FAP) of PoL in four species of blue‐back fish widely present in the North Adriatic Sea: anchovy (Engraulis encrasicholus), sardine (Sardina pilchardus), sprat (Sprattus sprattus), and horse mackerel (Trachurus trachurus). PoL levels (427–652 mg/100 g flesh) varied among the four species, with no significant seasonal variations within species. FAP of raw fillets were particularly high in polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA), especially docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and EPA; total PUFA was constant in all species throughout the year, while long‐chain n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (n‐3 PUFA) rose in spring (except in sprat), especially due to the contribution of DHA. The FAP response for PoL to oven baking was species‐specific and, among n‐3 PUFA, DHA exhibited the greatest heat resistance; the influence of oven baking on FAP was found to be correlated with the catching season, especially for anchovy and sardine, while sprat PoL were not affected by cooking processes. The four species analyzed in this study presented very low n‐6/n‐3 fatty acid ratios and highly favorable nutritional indices, emphasizing their PoL qualities and promoting their role in increasing human n‐3 PUFA intake. The four species can be considered as superior sources of n‐3 PUFA and can be employed as supplements in functional food manufacturing and in pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries.
Seasons of Syn
Authors: Hunter‐Cevera Kristen R. , Neubert Michael G. , Olson Robert J. , Shalapyonok Alexi , Solow Andrew R. , Sosik Heidi M.
Published: November 2019

Synechococcus is a widespread and important marine primary producer. Time series provide critical information for identifying and understanding the factors that determine abundance patterns. Here, we present the results of analysis of a 16‐yr hourly time series of Synechococcus at the Martha's Vineyard Coastal Observatory, obtained with an automated, in situ flow cytometer. We focus on understanding seasonal abundance patterns by examining relationships between cell division rate, loss rate, cellular properties (e.g., cell volume, phycoerythrin fluorescence), and environmental variables (e.g., temperature, light). We find that the drivers of cell division vary with season; cells are temperature‐limited in winter and spring, but light‐limited in the fall. Losses to the population also vary with season. Our results lead to testable hypotheses about Synechococcus ecophysiology and a working framework for understanding the seasonal controls of Synechococcus cell abundance in a temperate coastal system.
Contact lens‐type ocular in vivo dosimeter for radiotherapy
Authors: Kim Jung‐in , Cho Jin‐dong , Son Jaeman , Choi Chang Heon , Wu Hong‐Gyun , Park Jong Min
Published: November 2019

Purpose

This study aimed to (a) develop a contact lens‐type ocular in vivo dosimeter (CLOD) that can be worn directly on the eye and (b) assess its dosimetric characteristics and biological stability for radiation therapy.

Methods

The molder of a soft contact lens was directly used to create the dosimeter, which included a radiation‐sensitive component — an active layer similar to a radiochromic film — to measure the delivered dose. A flatbed scanner with a reflection mode was used to measure the change in optical density due to irradiation. The sensitivity, energy, dose rate, and angular dependence were tested, and the uncertainty in determining the dose was calculated using error propagation analysis. Sequential biological stability tests, specifically, cytotoxicity and ocular irritation tests, were conducted to ensure the safe application of the CLOD to patients.

Results

The dosimeter demonstrated high sensitivity in the low dose region, and the sensitivity linearly decreased with the dose. The responses obtained for the 10 and 15 MV photon beams were 1.7% and 1.9% higher compared to the 6 MV photon beam. A strong dose rate dependence was not obtained for the CLOD. Angular dependence was observed from 90° to 180° with a difference in response from 1% to 2%. The total uncertainty in error propagation analysis decreased as a function of the dose in the red channel. For a dose range of 0 to 50 cGy, the total uncertainties for 5, 10, and 50 cGy were 14.2%, 8.9%, and 5%, respectively. Quantitative evaluation using the MTT (3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide) method presented no cytotoxicity. Further, no corneal opacity, iris reaction, or conjunctival inflammation was observed.

Conclusions

The CLOD is the first dosimeter that can be worn close to the eye. The results of cytotoxicity and irritation tests indicate that it is a stable medical device. The evaluation of dose characteristics in open field conditions shows that the CLOD can be applied to an in vivo dosimeter in radiotherapy.
Flow quantification dependency on background phase correction techniques in 4D‐flow MRI
Authors: Callaghan Fraser M. , Burkhardt Barbara , Geiger Julia , Valsangiacomo Buechel Emanuela R. , Kellenberger Christian J.
Published: November 2019

Purpose

To analyze the dependence of flow volume measurements on 3D cine phase‐contrast MRI (4D‐flow MRI) background phase correction.

Methods

In 31 subjects scanned on a 1.5T MRI scanner, flow volume measurements at 4 vessels were made using phantom corrected 2D phase contrast and 4D flow with background phase correction performed by linear, second, third, and fourth‐order polynomial fitting to static tissue. Variations in the amount and distribution of static tissue were made to investigate the influence on flow volume measurements.

Results

Bland Altman comparison of 2D phase‐contrast and 4D‐flow measurements showed low bias (2.3%‐4.8%) and relatively large limits of agreement (13.5%‐17.6%). Approximately half of this was attributable to sequence and physiological differences between the 2 scan sequences, demonstrated by smaller limits of agreement (5.3%‐10.0%) when comparing 4D‐flow measurements with differing background phase corrections. Using only 20% of available static tissue points for polynomial fitting resulted in only 1% difference in flow volume measurements. Using asymmetrically distributed static tissue or including nonstatic tissue for polynomial fitting yielded highly variable differences in flow volume measurements, which became more variable with increased polynomial order. Completely asymmetric static tissue selection resulted in high deviations in flow volume measurements (mean > 7%, max = 345%).

Conclusion

Comparisons between 2D phase‐contrast and 4D‐flow volume measurements should consider influences from sequence and physiological differences. A subset of static tissue points may be used with low impact on flow measurements, but should avoid the inclusion of nonstatic tissue and avoid asymmetric distribution. Higher‐order polynomial fits are more susceptible to inaccurate static tissue selection.
Early electrodiagnosis in the management of neonatal brachial plexus palsy: A systematic review
Authors: van der Looven Ruth , Le Roy Laura , Tanghe Emma , van den Broeck Christine , de Muynck Martine , Vingerhoets Guy , Pitt Matthew , Vanderstraeten Guy
Published: November 2019

Neonatal brachial plexus palsy (NBPP) is a prominent form of newborn morbidity with a potentially disabling persistence. Neurosurgical intervention is indicated in select NBPP patients. Early prognostic assessment would facilitate rational selection of those infants for surgery. We conducted a systematic literature review to determine the prognostic value of early electrodiagnosis (EDx) in NBPP. We included 16 observational studies with a total sample size of 747 children. Risk of bias and quality of evidence were rated. Wide variation was found in EDx techniques, outcome algorithms, and decisionmaking. Nevertheless, the most methodologically sound studies support the use of EDx, at standardized time‐frames, as a key prognostic modality for complementing clinical judgment and neuroimaging. An accurate knowledge of the underlying anatomy of the nerve injury helps to counsel families and to guide reconstructive strategy.
Monitoring daily physical activity of upper extremity in young and adolescent boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy: A pilot study
Authors: van der Geest Annette , Essers Johannes M. N. , Bergsma Arjen , Jansen Merel , de Groot Imelda J. M.
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Accelerometry of the upper extremity (UE) potentially provides information on the extent of activities in daily life in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). The objective of this study is to evaluate the validity of home measurements of UE accelerometry.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study in 16 patients with DMD (aged 7‐17 years). Patients were monitored for 1 to 3 days with two accelerometers on the UE and one accelerometer on the wheelchair.

Results

The mean intensity of activity and the mean frequency of transfers of arm elevation from low to middle were approximately twofold higher in patients with a Brooke scale score of 1 or 2 than in patients with a Brooke scale score of 3 or 4. Correlations with the Performance of Upper Limb scale score were high for intensity and for the total frequency of arm elevations per hour.

Discussion

Intensity, percentage of time in middle orientation, and frequency of transfers of the upper arm correlated well with functional measurements.
R1ρ sensitivity to pH and other compounds at clinically accessible spin‐lock fields in the presence of proteins
Authors: Owusu Nana , Johnson Casey P. , Kearney William , Thedens Dan , Wemmie John , Magnotta Vincent A.
Published: November 2019

Numerous human diseases involve abnormal metabolism, and proton exchange is an effective source of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast for assessing metabolism. One MRI technique that capitalizes on proton exchange is R1 relaxation in the rotating frame (R1ρ). Here, we investigated the sensitivity of R1ρ to various proton‐exchange mechanisms at spin‐lock pulses within Food and Drug Administration (FDA) safety guidelines for radiofrequency‐induced heating. We systematically varied pH known to change the rate of proton exchange as well as the glucose and lysine concentrations, thus changing the number of amide, hydroxyl and amine exchangeable sites in a series of egg‐white albumin phantoms. The resulting effects on quantitative relaxation time measurements of R1ρ, R1 and R2 were observed at 3 T. Using spin‐lock amplitudes available for human imaging (less than 23.5 μT) at near physiologic temperatures, we found R1ρ was more sensitive to physiologic changes in pH than to changes in glucose and lysine concentrations. In addition, R1ρ was more sensitive to pH changes than R1 and R2. Models of proton exchange fitted to the relaxation measurements suggest that amide groups were the primary source of pH sensitivity. Together, these experiments suggest an optimal spin‐lock amplitude for measuring pH changes while not exceeding FDA‐subject heating limitations.
Influence of fused deposition modeling parameters on the mechanical properties of ABS parts
Authors: Vicente Carlos M.S. , Martins Tomás S. , Leite Marco , Ribeiro António , Reis Luís
Published: November 2019

This work aims to determine the influence of fused deposition modeling (FDM) printing parameters on the mechanical properties of parts fabricated on an Ultimaker2 printer with acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). The effect of several parameters such as interlayer cooling time (ILCT), nozzle diameter, infill density, raster angle and layer thickness on the ultimate tensile strength, yield strength, and elastic modulus of produced parts was evaluated. Two independent studies were conducted: a first study dedicated to the ILCT and a second study where the influence of other parameters was evaluated through a design of experiments (DoE) approach. Both studies were carried out through the execution of standard tensile tests. The statistical analysis of tensile tests results was processed with the ANOVA methodology. The obtained results indicate that a reduced ILCT improves the tensile strength of parts. It is shown that nozzle diameter and infill density are the parameters that most influence the mechanical properties of ABS, with the upper range selected values improving the studied mechanical properties. The raster angle configuration of (−45o/45o) benefits UTS and yield strength of ABS samples. Interactions of nozzle diameter on layer thickness were detected. It was observed that smaller layer thickness promotes a higher elastic modulus and UTS; however, for thinner layers (0.06‐0.10 mm), no significant differences were found on strength of samples due to potential high distortion levels.
In fetuses with congenital lung masses, decreased ventricular and atrioventricular valve dimensions are associated with lesion size and clinical outcome
Authors: Mardy Christopher , Blumenfeld Yair J. , Arunamata Alisa A. , Girsen Anna I. , Sylvester Karl G. , Halabi Safwan , Rubesova Erika , Hintz Susan R. , Tacy Theresa A. , Maskatia Shiraz A.
Published: November 2019

Introduction

The clinical importance of mass effect from congenital lung masses on the fetal heart is unknown. We aimed to report cardiac measurements in fetuses with congenital lung masses and to correlate lung mass severity/size with cardiac dimensions and clinical outcomes.

Methods

Cases were identified from our institutional database between 2009 and 2016. We recorded atrioventricular valve (AVVz) annulus dimensions and ventricular widths (VWz) converted into z scores, ratio of aortic to total cardiac output (AoCO), lesion side, and congenital pulmonary airway malformation volume ratio (CVR). Respiratory intervention (RI) was defined as intubation, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), or use of surgical intervention prior to discharge.

Results

Fifty‐two fetuses comprised the study cohort. Mean AVVz and VWz were below expected for gestational age. CVR correlated with ipsilateral AVVz (RS = −.59, P < .001) and ipsilateral VWz (−0.59, P < .001). Lower AVVz and AoCO and higher CVR were associated with RI. No patient had significant structural heart disease identified postnatally.

Conclusion

In fetuses with left‐sided lung masses, ipsilateral cardiac structures tend to be smaller, but in our cohort, there were no patients with structural heart disease. However, smaller left‐sided structures may contribute to the need for RI that affects a portion of these fetuses.
Fetal cardiac rhabdomyomas treated with maternal sirolimus
Authors: Pluym Ilina D. , Sklansky Mark , Wu Joyce Y. , Afshar Yalda , Holliman Kerry , Devore Greggory R. , Walden Ayanna , Platt Lawrence D. , Krakow Deborah
Published: November 2019

Objective

To review the pathophysiology of rhabdomyomas and the emerging option of prenatal treatment of fetal cardiac rhabdomyomas.

Methods

We present a case of fetal rhabdomyomas causing significant hemodynamic compromise that received in utero treatment of maternal sirolimus. Genetic amniocentesis confirmed a TSC2 mutation. A treatment program was initiated with a 10‐mg loading dose titrated to a goal maternal trough of 10 to 15 ng/dL. In order to follow fetal cardiac function, a sophisticated method of speckle tracking echocardiography was used before and after treatment. Obstetric ultrasound was used to monitor fetal growth, and clinical surveillance, echocardiography, and brain MRI were used to monitor postnatal growth and development through 6 months of neonatal life.

Results

Sirolimus was initiated from 28 to 36 weeks of gestation with improvement of cardiac status. During this period, intrauterine growth restriction developed. Postnatally, the infant has had stable rhabdomyomas and cardiac function without reinitiating sirolimus. Brain MRI demonstrated scattered cortical tubers and subependymal nodules, and the infant has not had seizure‐like activity. At 6 months of age, the infant has achieved appropriate developmental milestones.

Conclusion

In counseling cases of prenatal onset large obstructing rhabdomyomas and cardiac compromise, in utero sirolimus treatment can be considered.
Organismal Aging and Oxidants beyond Macromolecules Damage
Authors: Clement Marie‐Veronique , Luo Le
Published: November 2019

The relationship between oxidants and organismal aging was first articulated through the free radical theory of aging. One of the major predictions of the free radical theory of aging is that oxidative stress shortens organisms’ lifespan because of an increased level of oxidants, which are damaging to macromolecules. However, challenging the role of oxidants in age‐related diseases, there is now sufficient evidence that antioxidant supplements do not provide significant health benefits. Interestingly, in addition to an increase in oxidant‐mediated macromolecules damage, there is convincing experimental data to support the role of senescent cells in the process of aging. Here, the current knowledge regarding the role of oxidants and cellular senescence in organismal aging is reviewed and it is proposed that, in addition to the role of oxidants as inducers of macromolecular damage, oxidants may also function as regulators of signaling pathways involved in the establishment of cellular senescence. If this role for oxidants is established, it may be necessary to modify the free radical theory of aging from “Organisms age because cells accumulate reactive oxygen species‐dependent damage over time” to: “Organisms age because cells accumulate oxidants’‐dependent damage and oxidants’‐dependent senescent characteristics over time.”
RNA‐based biocontrol compounds: current status and perspectives to reach the market
Authors: Taning Clauvis NT , Arpaia Salvatore , Christiaens Olivier , Dietz‐Pfeilstetter Antje , Jones Huw , Mezzetti Bruno , Sabbadini Silvia , Sorteberg Hilde‐Gunn , Sweet Jeremy , Ventura Vera , Smagghe Guy
Published: November 2019

Facing current climate challenges and drastically reduced chemical options for plant protection, the exploitation of RNA interference (RNAi) as an agricultural biotechnology tool has unveiled possible new solutions to the global problems of agricultural losses caused by pests and other biotic and abiotic stresses. While the use of RNAi as a tool in agriculture is still limited to a few transgenic crops, and only adopted in restricted parts of the world, scientists and industry are already seeking innovations in leveraging and exploiting the potential of RNAi in the form of RNA‐based biocontrol compounds for external applications. Here, we highlight the expanding research and development pipeline, commercial landscape and regulatory environment surrounding the pursuit of RNA‐based biocontrol compounds with improved environmental profiles. The commitments of well‐established agrochemical companies to invest in research endeavours and the role of start‐up companies are crucial for the successful development of practical applications for these compounds. Additionally, the availability of standardized guidelines to tackle regulatory ambiguities surrounding RNA‐based biocontrol compounds will help to facilitate the entire commercialization process. Finally, communication to create awareness and public acceptance will be key to the deployment of these compounds. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Biaxially Textured Titanium Thin Films by Oblique Angle Deposition: Conditions and Growth Mechanisms
Authors: Liedtke-Grüner Susann , Grüner Christoph , Lotnyk Andriy , Gerlach Juergen W. , Rauschenbach Bernd
Published: November 2019

Growing highly crystalline nanowires over large substrate areas remains an ambiguous task nowadays. Herein, a time‐efficient and easy‐to‐handle bottom‐up approach is demonstrated that enables the self‐assembled growth of biaxially textured Ti thin films composed of single‐crystalline nanowires in a single‐deposition step. Ti thin films are deposited under highly oblique incidence angles by electron beam evaporation on amorphous substrates. Substrate temperature, angle of the incoming particle flux, and working pressure are varied to optimize the crystallinity in those films. Height‐resolved structure information of individual nanowires is provided by a transmission electron microscopy (TEM) nanobeam, high‐resolution TEM, and electron diffraction. Ti nanowires are polycrystalline at 77 K, whereas for ≥300 K, single‐crystalline nanowires are tendentially found. The Ti crystals grow along the thermodynamically favored c‐direction, but the nanowires’ tilt angle is determined by shadowing. Biaxially textured Ti thin films require a certain temperature range combined with highly oblique deposition angles, which is proved by X‐ray in‐plane pole figures. A general correlation between average activation energy for surface self‐diffusion and melting point of metals is given to estimate the significant influence of surface self‐diffusion on the evolution of obliquely deposited metal thin films.
Trends in cyclones in the high‐latitude North Atlantic during 1979–2016
Authors: Wickström S. , Jonassen M. O. , Vihma T. , Uotila P.
Published: November 2019

We report an increase in winter (DJF) cyclone densities in the areas around Svalbard and in northwestern Barents Sea and a decrease in cyclone densities in southeastern Barents Sea during 1979–2016. Despite high interannual variability, the trends are significant at the 90% confidence level. The changes appear as a result of a shift into a more meridional winter storm track in the high‐latitude North Atlantic, associated with a positive trend in the Scandinavian Pattern. A significant decrease in the Brunt–Väisälä frequency east of Svalbard and a significant increase in the Eady Growth Rate north of Svalbard indicate increased baroclinicity, favouring enhanced cyclone activity in these regions. For the first time, we apply composite analysis to explicitly address regional consequences of these wintertime changes in the high‐latitude North Atlantic. We find a tendency toward a warmer and more moist atmospheric state in the Barents Sea and over Svalbard with increased cyclone activity around Svalbard.
Software reliability analysis for safety‐critical and control systems
Authors: Kumar Pramod , Singh Lalit Kumar , Kumar Chiranjeev
Published: November 2019

The transition from analog to digital safety‐critical instrumentation and control (I&C) systems has introduced new challenges for software experts to deliver increased software reliability. Since the 1970s, researchers are continuing to propose software reliability models for reliability estimation of software. However, these approaches rely on the failure history for the assessment of reliability. Due to insufficient failure data, these models fail to predict the reliability of safety critical systems. This paper utilizes the Bayesian update methodology and proposes a framework for the reliability assessment of the safety‐critical systems (SCSs). The proposed methodology is validated using experiments performed on real data of 12 safety‐critical control systems of nuclear power plants.
Renewing Literature Circles: Pedagogies for Curated Multimodal Responses
Authors: Cloonan Anne , Paatsch Louise , Hutchison Kirsten
Published: November 2019

Contemporary students, accustomed to the agency and multimodality afforded by digital media in their out‐of‐school lives, require literature pedagogies that provide currency and appeal while furthering their understandings of literary techniques. Literature circles have long promoted student voice and choice but can lack criticality and attention to literary devices and fail to capitalize on the potential of digital technologies. The authors explore literature circle pedagogies designed to develop knowledge of literary theme and mood, highlighting multimodal responses foregrounding students’ identities. Two analytical lenses, curation and multimodality, underpin this investigation into the opportunities presented through pedagogical design. Curation, an expanded concept of text creation, is used to analyze opportunities for student displays of literary knowledge and identity through multimodal resources. Multimodal resources are understood as combinations of modes of meaning. Together, these analytical lenses offer insight into ways in which multimodal curation pedagogies enable students’ development of literary knowledge.
Improving Thermal Stability and Electrical Insulation of Gamma‐Irradiated Silicone Rubber Nanocomposites
Authors: Attia Mona K.
Published: November 2019

Room temperature vulcanized silicone rubber (RTVSR) nanocomposites were prepared by mixing of surface‐modified montmorillonite nanoclay or nano fumed silica, or both of them with RTVSR to improve thermal stability, electrical insulation, and flame retardant. Their tensile strength, elongation, swelling, and solubility properties at different doses of gamma radiation were investigated to study the effect of gamma radiation on the properties of the nanocomposites. The thermal stability, flammability properties, and volume resistivity of the nanocomposites were also investigated. The nanocomposite which containing fumed silica has the best thermal, mechanical properties, electrical insulation and fire retardancy. The thermal characteristics, namely, Tonset, T10%, Tcomp, and Tmax, of the nanocomposite sample containing fumed silica were 22, 23, 13, and 11 °C higher than those of the blank, respectively. The tensile strength (TS) increased when the radiation dose was increased up to 100 kGy, but elongation, swelling, and solubility decreased when the radiation dose was increased up to 150 kGy. It can be generally concluded that the nanocomposites containing fumed silica and irradiated to 100 kGy are characterized by having outstanding mechanical, thermal, fire retardant, and electrical insulation properties and hence, they may have wide industrial applications as good thermal and electrical insulating materials. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 26:354–361, 2020. © 2019 Society of Plastics Engineers
A review of the current quality standards framework supporting forensic science: Risks and opportunities
Authors: Doyle Sean
Published: November 2019

The publication and implementation of the latest editions of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 9001:2015 and ISO/International Electrochemical Commission (IEC) 17025:2017 together with the recent publication of the first book on quality management in forensic science provide an opportunity for this review. It details the changes to the structure, content and scope of the latest editions and assesses the impact on forensic science. Key terms are defined and explained. The review examines the effectiveness of the quality standards framework (QSF) supporting forensic science in the regions of Australia and New Zealand, Europe and North America. The concept of a hierarchy is introduced as a means of classifying standards to better navigate the crowded landscape. The main body of the review identifies risks to the QSF and opportunities for improvement.

This article is categorized under:

Forensic Science in Action/Crime Scene Investigation > Education and Formation

Forensic Chemistry and Trace Evidence > Presentation and Evaluation of Forensic Science Output

Jurisprudence and Regulatory Oversight > Expert Evidence and Narrative

Forensic Biology > Interpretation of Biological Evidence
Dynamical vector resonances from the EChL in VBS at the LHC: the WW case
Authors: Delgado R.L. , Garcia-Garcia C. , Herrero M.J.
Published: November 2019

Abstract

In this work we study the phenomenology of the process pp → W+W−jj at the LHC, in the scenario of the resonant vector boson scattering subprocess W+W−→ W+W− which we describe within the effective field theory framework of the Electroweak Chiral Lagrangian. We assume a strongly interacting electroweak symmetry breaking sector in which dynamically generated resonances with masses in the TeV scale appear as poles in the Electroweak Chiral Lagrangian amplitudes unitarized with the Inverse Amplitude Method. The relevant resonance here, V0, is the neutral component of the triplet of vector resonances which are known to emerge dynamically at the TeV scale for specific values of the Electroweak Chiral Lagrangian parameters. With the aim of studying the production and possible observation of V0 at the LHC, via the resonant W+W−→ W+W− scatter- ing, a MadGraph 5 UFO model has been developed employing a phenomenological Proca Lagrangian as a practical tool to mimic the correct V0 properties that are predicted with the Inverse Amplitude Method. We choose to study the fully hadronic decay channel of the final gauge bosons W W → J (jj)J (jj) since it leads to larger event rates and because in the alternative leptonic decay channels the presence of neutrinos complicates the re- construction of the resonance properties. In this context, the 2 boosted jets from the W hadronic decays, jj, are detected as a single fat jet, J , due to their extreme collinearity. We perform a dedicated analysis of the sensitivity to these vector resonances V0 with masses between 1.5 and 2.5 TeV at the LHC with $$ \sqrt{s} $$

s

= 13 TeV and the planned high luminosity of 3000 fb−1, paying special attention to the study of efficient cuts to extract the resonant vector boson fusion signal from the QCD background, which clearly represents the main challenge of this search.
NeQuick-G performance assessment for space applications
Authors: Montenbruck Oliver , González Rodríguez Belén
Published: November 2019

Other than traditional single-layer ionosphere models for global navigation satellite system (GNSS) receivers, the NeQuick-G model of Galileo provides a fully three-dimensional description of the electron density and obtains the ionospheric path delay by integration along the line of sight. While optimized for users on or near the surface of the earth, NeQuick-G can thus as well be used for ionospheric correction of single-frequency observations from spaceborne platforms. Based on slant and total electron content measurements obtained in the Swarm mission, the performance of NeQuick-G for users in low earth orbit is assessed for periods of high and low solar activity as well as different orientations of the orbital plane with respect to the sun and the region of high total electron content. A slant range correction performance of better than 70% is achieved in more than 85% of the examined epochs in good accord with the performance reported for terrestrial users. Likewise, the positioning errors can be notably reduced when applying the NeQuick-G corrections in single-frequency navigation solutions. For users at orbital altitudes, it is furthermore shown that vertical total electron predictions from NeQuick-G may be favorably combined with an elevation-dependent thick-layer mapping function to reduce the high computational effort associated with the integration of the electron density along the ray path for each tracked GNSS satellite.
Jumping with variably scaled discontinuous kernels (VSDKs)
Authors: De Marchi S. , Marchetti F. , Perracchione E.
Published: November 2019

In this paper we address the problem of approximating functions with discontinuities via kernel-based methods. The main result is the construction of discontinuous kernel-based basis functions. The linear spaces spanned by these discontinuous kernels lead to a very flexible tool which sensibly or completely reduces the well-known Gibbs phenomenon in reconstructing functions with jumps. For the new basis we provide error bounds and numerical results that support our claims. The method is also effectively tested for approximating satellite images.
Computerized cognitive performance assessments in the Brooklyn Cognitive Impairments in Health Disparities Pilot Study
Authors: Adler Kerry , Apple Samuel , Friedlander Alison , Cheng Frank , Cohen Carl , Levine Steven R. , Lucchesi Michael , Maruff Paul , Reinhardt Michael , Salmieri Margaret , Stevens David , Weingast Sarah , Gustafson Deborah
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Detecting cognitive impairment in diverse, health disparities communities is an urgent health care priority.

Methods

The Brooklyn Cognitive Impairments in Health Disparities Pilot Study investigated quantitative aspects and liking of a computerized cognitive performance assessment, Cognigram, among individuals ≥ 40 years in traditional and nontraditional primary care settings.

Results

Cognigram was piloted in the Emergency Department, Family Medicine, and Geriatric Psychiatry clinics: 58 adults (23 men, 35 women), 67.9 ± 9.8 years (range 43–91), completed the Cognigram and 5‐item liking survey. The observed liking range was 2 to maximum score 5 (67% scored 4–5; no sex or age differences).

Discussion

The Cognigram was well liked in waiting rooms of primary care settings. Assistance from a trained adult and clinic endorsement were keys to success. How the Cognigram performs in a geographically compact, population‐dense global setting, such as Brooklyn with high vascular disease risk and a plethora of health disparities, is being tested.
Emergency and Disaster Preparedness of European Hospital Pharmacists: A Survey
Authors: Schumacher Laurence , Bonnabry Pascal , Widmer Nicolas
Published: November 2019

Objective:

This study was focused on reviewing the emergency and disaster preparedness of European hospital pharmacists.

Methods:

An online survey based on International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) guidelines for natural disasters was sent to European hospital pharmacies, with the support of the European Association of Hospital Pharmacists. Additional questions were added about the characteristics of respondents, as well as preparedness and experience of manmade disasters. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the results.

Results:

Hospital pharmacists in France (20%) and Spain (19%) returned most of the 306 questionnaires completed in 27 countries. Half of the respondents had analyzed their regional disaster risk, but 65% had never practiced emergency drills. Fifteen percent of respondents had experienced at least 1 major emergency or disaster event in the last 5 years. Fifty-six percent of those respondents who experienced a disaster subsequently created and promoted internal standard operating procedures (SOPs) for future emergencies, versus 23% for those who had not experienced disasters. Among pharmacists having experienced disasters, 40% organized a post-disaster debriefing to improve their future response.

Conclusions:

Results highlighted that most European hospital pharmacists were not fully compliant with FIP guidelines. However, respondents who had experienced disasters were more likely to create and promote SOPs for future disasters. Further worldwide analysis and benchmarking are necessary, and FIP guidelines should be more strongly promoted.
Coordination difficulties, IQ and psychopathology in children with high-risk copy number variants
Authors: Cunningham Adam C. , Hall Jeremy , Owen Michael J. , van den Bree Marianne B. M.
Published: November 2019

Background

The prevalence and impact of motor coordination difficulties in children with copy number variants associated with neurodevelopmental disorders (ND-CNVs) remains unknown. This study aims to advance understanding of motor coordination difficulties in children with ND-CNVs and establish relationships between intelligence quotient (IQ) and psychopathology.

Methods

169 children with an ND-CNV (67% male, median age = 8.88 years, range 6.02–14.81) and 72 closest-in-age unaffected siblings (controls; 55% male, median age = 10.41 years, s.d. = 3.04, range 5.89–14.75) were assessed with the Developmental Coordination Disorder Questionnaire, alongside psychiatric interviews and standardised assessments of IQ.

Results

The children with ND-CNVs had poorer coordination ability (b = 28.98, p < 0.001) and 91% of children with an ND-CNV screened positive for suspected developmental coordination disorder, compared to 19% of controls (OR = 42.53, p < 0.001). There was no difference in coordination ability between ND-CNV genotypes (F = 1.47, p = 0.184). Poorer coordination in children with ND-CNV was associated with more attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) (β = −0.18, p = 0.021) and autism spectrum disorder trait (β = −0.46, p < 0.001) symptoms, along with lower full-scale (ß = 0.21, p = 0.011), performance (β = −0.20, p = 0.015) and verbal IQ (β = 0.17, p = 0.036). Mediation analysis indicated that coordination ability was a full mediator of anxiety symptoms (69% mediated, p = 0.012), and a partial mediator of ADHD (51%, p = 0.001) and autism spectrum disorder trait symptoms (66%, p < 0.001) as well as full scale IQ (40%, p = 0.002), performance IQ (40%, p = 0.005) and verbal IQ (38%, p = 0.006) scores.

Conclusions

The findings indicate that poor motor coordination is highly prevalent and closely linked to risk of mental health disorder and lower intellectual function in children with ND-CNVs. Future research should explore whether early interventions for poor coordination ability could ameliorate neurodevelopmental risk.
Comprehension of the copula: preschoolers (and sometimes adults) ignore subject–verb agreement during sentence processing
Authors: DAVIES Benjamin , XU RATTANASONE Nan , DEMUTH Katherine
Published: November 2019

Subject–verb (SV) agreement helps listeners interpret the number condition of ambiguous nouns (The sheep is/are fat), yet it remains unclear whether young children use agreement to comprehend newly encountered nouns. Preschoolers and adults completed a forced choice task where sentences contained singular vs. plural copulas (Where is/are the [novel noun(s)]?). Novel nouns were either morphologically unambiguous (tup/tups) or ambiguous (/geks/ = singular: gex / plural: gecks). Preschoolers (and some adults) ignored the singular copula, interpreting /ks/-final words as plural, raising questions about the role of SV agreement in learners’ sentence comprehension and the status of is in Australian English.
A Mutual Information-Based Bayesian Network Model for Consequence Estimation of Navigational Accidents in the Yangtze River
Authors: Wu Bing , Yip Tsz Leung , Yan Xinping , Mao Zhe
Published: November 2019

Navigational accidents (collisions and groundings) account for approximately 85% of mari-time accidents, and consequence estimation for such accidents is essential for both emergency resource allocation when such accidents occur and for risk management in the framework of a formal safety assessment. As the traditional Bayesian network requires expert judgement to develop the graphical structure, this paper proposes a mutual information-based Bayesian network method to reduce the requirement for expert judgements. The central premise of the proposed Bayesian network method involves calculating mutual information to obtain the quantitative element among multiple influencing factors. Seven-hundred and ninety-seven historical navigational accident records from 2006 to 2013 were used to validate the methodology. It is anticipated the model will provide a practical and reasonable method for consequence estimation of navigational accidents.
Genetic diversity using single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and screening for salinity tolerance in rice germplasm at reproductive stage
Authors: Barrera Wilfredo B. , Dela Viña Celia B. , Vispo Naireen Aiza , Singh Rakesh Kumar
Published: November 2019

Genetic diversity is a valuable asset for crop improvement. In this study, a total of 50 rice genotypes were screened for salinity tolerance at the reproductive stage using gravel-based hydroponics, soil, controlled mini-field and field methods. Different morpho-agronomic, physiological markers and tolerance indices were used to classify tolerant and susceptible genotypes. Our results showed high genetic variability in response of rice genotypes to salinity using different screening methods. The significant effect (P < 0.01) of salinity include increased Na+ sequestration in the flag leaf, increased unfilled grains (except for the field method) and reduced pollen fertility, total yield, panicle length and the average number of filled grains per panicle. Plant height (except for the soil method) and K+ ion concentration in the flag leaf were not significantly affected by salinity (P > 0.05). Genetic diversity analysis indicated that the germplasm evaluated exhibits moderate diversity (PIC ${\overline{\bf X}}$ = 0.2085). Cluster analysis using single nucleotide polymorphisms showed that the genetic make-up of rice germplasm somehow did not necessarily indicate their over-all tolerance or susceptibility to salinity. This study proved that the controlled mini-field method is the most advantageous among the screening methods while geometric mean productivity, stress tolerance index and yield index are the tolerance indices that can be classified as better predictors of salinity tolerance considering the yield potentials of the genotypes. The genotypes Nona Bokra and Mushkan 41 can be used for breeding in the future through low Na+:K+ ratio while Damodar and Bhura Rata 4-10 for breeding salt-tolerant cultivars with higher yield potentials.
An Improved Lyman‐Alpha Composite
Authors: Machol J. , Snow M. , Woodraska D. , Woods T. , Viereck R. , Coddington O.
Published: November 2019

The hydrogen Lyman‐alpha (Lyman α) line at 121.56 nm is the strongest solar vacuum ultraviolet emission line. Especially because of the impacts on planetary atmospheres, long‐term data sets of Lyman α are important for understanding solar and atmospheric processes. A revised composite data set of daily Lyman α values beginning in 1947 is constructed using measurements of Lyman α from Atmospheric Explorer E, Solar Mesospheric Explorer, Upper Atmosphere Research Satellite, and Solar Radiation and Climate Experiment. Gaps are filled using proxy models based on the Magnesium II index and the 10.7‐ and 30‐cm solar radio fluxes (F10.7 and F30).
The Entrainment Rate of Non‐Boussinesq Hazardous Geophysical Gas‐Particle Flows: An Experimental Model With Application to Pyroclastic Density Currents
Authors: Dellino P. , Dioguardi F. , Doronzo D. M. , Mele D.
Published: November 2019

The entrainment rate of pyroclastic density currents is investigated by large‐scale experiments. The ground flows are initiated by the impact on the terrain of a dense gas‐particle fountain issuing from a cylindrical conduit, similarly to natural volcanic events. On impact, the excess density with respect to the surrounding atmosphere was up to 11.6 kg/m3, making the currents non‐Boussinesq. A power law model of the entrainment rate is developed, which is similar to that proposed for snow avalanches by Ancey (2004, https://doi.org/10.1029/2003JF000052) and is verified for the Richardson's number range between 0.25 and 5.95. Rapid changes of the entrainment are caused by (i) strong accelerations at the fountain impact on the ground; (ii) break in slope; and (iii) topographic obstacles. Such changes, together with the sedimentation rate, influence flow mobility. The use of the power law is suggested for modeling the motion of unsteady hazardous geophysical mass flows such as pyroclastic density currents and snow avalanches.
Recordings of Fast Paleomagnetic Reversals in a 1.2 Ma Greigite‐Rich Sediment Archive From Lake Ohrid, Balkans
Authors: Just J. , Sagnotti L. , Nowaczyk N. R. , Francke A. , Wagner B.
Published: November 2019

State‐of‐the‐art paleoclimate research strongly depends on the availability of time‐equivalent markers as chronological control to disentangle interrelationships in the climate system from regional to global scale. Geomagnetic reversals are regarded as excellent age constraints because they are global events and independent from climatic conditions. However, spatial variations of timing and internal dynamics of reversals may limit their precision. Our 1.2 Ma high‐resolution (~25 cm/kyr) sediment record from Lake Ohrid is promising to precisely depict the Matuyama‐Brunhes (MB) reversal and the Jaramillo subchron. Two generations of diagenetic ferrimagnetic minerals are present in glacial intervals of the Lake Ohrid record. Early diagenetic greigite acquired a quasi synsedimentary chemical magnetization, while a late diagenetic greigite formation, triggered by the upward diffusion of H2S‐rich waters, obscures the polarity record at the top of the Jaramillo. Interglacial intervals are unaffected by greigite formation, likely due to low iron concentrations. Based on an orbitally tuned age model with tephrostratigraphic markers, the base of Jaramillo can be precisely dated to 1072.4 ka, and the MB reversal to 778.5 ka. Both polarity reversals occurred very rapidly in our record, lasting 2.3 and 1 kyr, respectively. Our results reveal that the dipole component of the Earth's magnetic field fell below the nondipole components only for a short duration in the Mediterranean region. The comparison of the timing of the MB boundary across different archives implies that the onset of the reversal provides a more synchronous age marker compared to often used midpoint ages.
The Paroxysmal Precipitation of the Desert: Flash Floods in the Southwestern United States
Authors: Smith James A. , Baeck Mary Lynn , Yang Long , Signell Julia , Morin Efrat , Goodrich David C.
Published: November 2019

The 14 September 2015 Hildale, Utah, storm resulted in 20 flash flood fatalities, making it the most deadly natural disaster in Utah history; it is the quintessential example of the “paroxysmal precipitation of the desert”. The measured peak discharge from Maxwell Canyon at a drainage area of 5.3 km2 was 266 m3/s, a value that exceeds envelope curve peaks for Utah. The 14 September 2015 flash flood reflects features common to other major flash flood events in the region, as well as unique features. The flood was produced by a hailstorm that was moving rapidly from southwest to northeast and intensified as it interacted with complex terrain. Polarimetric radar observations show that the storm exhibited striking temporal variability, with the Maxwell Canyon tributary of Short Creek and a small portion of the East Fork Virgin River basin experiencing extreme precipitation. Periods of extreme rainfall rates for the 14 September 2015 storm are characterized by KDP signatures of extreme rainfall in polarimetric radar measurements. Similar KDP signatures characterized multiple storms that have produced record and near‐record flood peaks in Colorado Plateau watersheds. The climatology of monsoon thunderstorms that produce flash floods exhibits striking spatial heterogeneities in storm occurrence and motion. The hydroclimatology of flash flooding in arid/semiarid watersheds of the southwestern United States exhibits relatively weak dependence on drainage basin area. Large flood peaks over a broad range of basin scales can be produced by small thunderstorms like the 14 September 2015 Hildale Storm, which pass close to the outlet.