bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Functional diversity of cover crop mixtures enhances biomass yield and weed suppression in a Mediterranean agroecosystem
Authors: Ranaldo M , Carlesi S , Costanzo A , Bàrberi P 
Published: October 2019

SummaryFunctional diversity of cover crop mixtures is thought to improve biomass production and weed suppression, two key agroecosystem services in organic systems. To test this hypothesis, we selected eight cover crop species belonging to four functional groups: (i) vining growing large‐seeded legumes (field pea, common vetch), (ii) erect growing small‐seeded legumes (crimson clover, squarrosum clover), (iii) grasses (barley, oats) and (iv) Brassicaceae (radish, black mustard). Nine cover crop mixtures were designed to create a gradient of diversity in terms of number of species and number of functional groups. A control treatment and all monocrops were included in the trial. Regarding cover crop biomass, mixtures outyielded monocrops by an average of 37%. Both functional identity and composition (i.e. trait complementarity) influenced biomass production and weed suppression provided by cover crops. Regression analysis showed that increase in both species diversity and functional diversity in cover crop mixtures improved the provision of agroecosystem services. Results from this study show that complementarity of species functional traits in cover crop mixtures can be used as a strategy to ensure high biomass production and good weed suppression in changing agroecosystems.
Whole‐body heat exchange in black‐African and Caucasian men during exercise eliciting matched heat‐loss requirements in dry heat
Authors: Muia Caroline M. , Notley Sean R. , Saci Samah , D'Souza Andrew W. , Kenny Glen P. 
Published: October 2019

New Findings
What is the central question of this study?
Black‐African descendants are thought, by some, to possess genotypic adaptations conducive to survival in hot climates. We therefore assessed whether Canadian residents of black‐African descent display enhanced whole‐body total heat loss (evaporative plus dry heat exchange) in comparison to Caucasian Canadians during exercise eliciting matched heat‐loss requirements in dry heat.

What is the main finding and its importance?
Neither whole‐body total heat loss nor body heat storage differed significantly between groups, irrespective of the exercise intensity. Our findings indicate that genotypic adaptations associated with ethnicity do not appreciably modify whole‐body heat exchange during exercise–heat stress.

AbstractEthnicity has long been thought to modulate thermoregulatory function; however, an evaluation of whole‐body heat exchange in men of black‐African descent and Caucasian men (white‐European descendants), born and raised in the same climate, during exercise eliciting matched heat‐loss requirements remained unavailable. We therefore used direct calorimetry to assess whole‐body total heat loss (evaporative plus dry heat exchange) in young (18–30 years of age), second‐generation (or higher) black‐African (n = 11) and Caucasian (n = 11) men. Participants performed three 30 min bouts of semi‐recumbent cycling at fixed metabolic heat productions (and therefore matched heat‐loss requirements between groups) of 200 (light), 250 (moderate) and 300 W m−2 (vigorous), each followed by 15 min recovery, in dry heat (40°C, ∼13% relative humidity). Across all exercise bouts, dry (P = 0.435) and evaporative (P = 0.600) heat exchange did not differ significantly between groups. As such, total heat loss during light, moderate and vigorous exercise was similar between groups (P = 0.777), averaging [mean (SD)] 177 (10), 217 (13) and 244 (20) W m−2 in black‐African men and 172 (13), 212 (17) and 244 (17) W m−2 in Caucasian men. Accordingly, body heat storage across all exercise bouts (summation of metabolic heat production and total heat loss) was also similar between the black‐African [568 (142) kJ] and Caucasian groups [623 (124) kJ; P = 0.356]. We demonstrated that, when assessed in young, second‐generation (or higher) black‐African and Caucasian men during exercise eliciting matched heat‐loss requirements in dry heat, ethnicity did not significantly modulate whole‐body dry and evaporative heat exchange or the resulting changes in total heat loss and body heat storage.
Relationship Between Lateral Patellar Stability and Tibial Tubercle Location for Varying Patellofemoral Geometries
Authors: Clouthier Allison L. , Borschneck Daniel , Thelen Darryl G. , Deluzio Kevin J. , Rainbow Michael J. 
Published: October 2019

AbstractThe geometry of the patellofemoral joint affects function and pathology. However, the impact of trochlear groove depth on treatments for patellar instability and pain is not clear. Tibial tubercle osteotomy is a common surgical intervention for patellar instability where the tibial insertion of the patellar tendon (PT) is translated to align the extensor mechanism and stabilize the joint. The aim of this work was to investigate the interaction between trochlear groove depth and PT insertion and their effect on patellar stability. Patellofemoral geometry was modified based on a statistical shape model to create knees with a range of trochlear groove depths. A Monte Carlo approach was used and 750 instances of a musculoskeletal model were generated with varying geometry and anterior and medial transfer of the PT. Stability was assessed by applying a lateral perturbation force to the patella during simulation of overground walking. In knees with deep trochlear grooves, a medialized PT increased stability. However, in knees with shallow trochlear grooves, stability was maximized for tendon insertion ∼1 mm medial to its neutral location. This PT insertion also corresponded to the best alignment of the patella in the trochlear groove in these knees, indicating that good alignment may be important to maximizing stability. Anterior PT transfer had minimal effect on stability for all geometries. A better understanding of the effects of articular geometry and tubercle location on stability may aid clinicians in patient-specific surgical planning.
Statistical Methodology for a Quantified Validation of Sodium Fast Reactor Simulation Tools
Authors: Marie N. , Marrel A. , Herbreteau K. 
Published: October 2019

Abstract
This paper presents a statistical methodology for a quantified validation of the OCARINa simulation tool, which models the unprotected transient overpower (UTOP) accidents. This validation on CABRI experiments is based on a best-estimate plus uncertainties (BEPU) approach. To achieve this, a general methodology based on recent statistical techniques is developed. In particular, a method for the quantification of multivariate data is applied for the visualization of simulator outputs and their comparison with experiments. Still for validation purposes, a probabilistic indicator is proposed to quantify the degree of agreement between the simulator OCARINa and the experiments, taking into account both experimental uncertainties and those on OCARINa inputs. Going beyond a qualitative validation, this work is of great interest for the verification, validation and uncertainty quantification or evaluation model development and assessment process approaches, which leads to the qualification of scientific calculation tools. Finally, for an in-depth analysis of the influence of uncertain parameters, a sensitivity analysis based on recent dependence measures is also performed. The usefulness of the statistical methodology is demonstrated on CABRI-E7 and CABRI-E12 tests. For each case, the BEPU propagation study is carried out performing 1000 Monte Carlo simulations with the OCARINa tool, with nine uncertain input parameters. The validation indicators provide a quantitative conclusion on the validation of the OCARINa tool on both transients and highlight future efforts to strengthen the demonstration of validation of safety tools. The sensitivity analysis improves the understanding of the OCARINa tool and the underlying UTOP scenario.
Angular Distribution of Neutrons Around Thick Beryllium Target of Accelerator-Based 9Be(d, n) Neutron Source
Authors: Shehada A. M. , Golovkov V. M. 
Published: October 2019

AbstractAn experimental work and simulations were carried out to determine the angular distributions of neutrons and yields of the 9Be(d, n) reaction over all angular range (360 deg) on a thick beryllium target as an accelerator-based neutron source at incident-deuteron energy 13.6 MeV. The neutron activation method was used in the experimental part using aluminum and iron foils as detectors to calculate the neutron flux. The Monte Carlo neutral-particles code (MCNP5) was used to demonstrate and simulate the neutron distribution, also to understand and compare with the experimental results. The neutron energy spectrum was computed using the projection angular-momentum coupled evaporation code PACE4 (LISE++) and the spectrum was adopted in MCNP5 code. Two experimental ways were used, one with beryllium target and another one without the beryllium target, to evaluate the neutron flux emitted only by the beryllium target. Typical computational results were presented and are compared with the previous experimental data to evaluate the computing model as well as the characteristics of emitted neutrons produced by the 9Be(d, n) reaction with a thick Be-target. Moreover, the results can be used to optimize the shielding and collimating system for neutron therapy.
Automating the Derivation of the Equations of Motion of a Multibody Dynamic System With Uncertainty Using Polynomial Chaos Theory and Variational Work
Authors: Ryan Paul S. , Baxter Sarah C. , Voglewede Philip A. 
Published: October 2019

Abstract
Understanding how variation impacts a multibody dynamic (MBD) system's response is important to ensure the robustness of a system. However, how the variation propagates into the MBD system is complicated because MBD systems are typically governed by a system of large differential algebraic equations. This paper presents a novel process, variational work, along with the polynomial chaos multibody dynamics (PCMBoD) automation process for utilizing polynomial chaos theory (PCT) in the analysis of uncertainties in an MBD system. Variational work allows the complexity of the traditional PCT approach to be reduced. With variational work and the constrained Lagrangian formulation, the equations of motion of an MBD PCT system can be constructed using the PCMBoD automated process. To demonstrate the PCMBoD process, two examples, a mass-spring-damper and a two link slider–crank mechanism, are shown.
Modeling and Analysis of Spatial Flexible Mechanical Systems With a Spherical Clearance Joint Based on the LuGre Friction Model
Authors: Tan Xiao , Chen Guoping , Shao Hanbo 
Published: October 2019

Abstract
A computational methodology for modeling spatial flexible mechanical systems with stick-slip friction in a spherical clearance joint is presented. A modified three-dimensional (3D) absolute nodal coordinate formulation based shear deformable beam element with two nodes is proposed and employed to discretize the flexible components. To avoid locking problems, we employed an enhanced continuum mechanics approach to evaluate the beam element elastic forces. The strain components εyz, εyy, and εzz are approximated using linear interpolation to improve the computational efficiency while the loss of accuracy is acceptable. The contact and friction forces in a spherical clearance joint were evaluated by the hybrid contact and LuGre friction models, respectively. Three numerical examples are presented and discussed. A simple pendulum was utilized to prove the correctness of the modified beam element. A classical slider–crank mechanism was employed to validate the computational methodology. A spatial rigid–flexible slider–crank mechanism with a spherical clearance joint was used to investigate the effect of link flexibility and joint clearance on the dynamic behavior of mechanical systems. Using the LuGre friction model, we reproduced the Stribeck effect as it is expected in real world settings. The components with appropriate stiffness play the role of suspension for spatial mechanical systems with imperfect joints. The vibrations of the flexible components play an active role of intensifying the collision in kinematic joint with clearance.
Numerical Investigation on Heat and Mass Transfer of Volatile Flammable Gases Within the Nuclear Reactor Containment
Authors: Wang Yan-Feng , Liang Xi-Mei , Chu Ying-Jie , Wu Jiang-Tao 
Published: October 2019

Abstract
Diffusion of volatile flammable species in the air can cause a fire risk within the nuclear reactor containment. However, computational prediction on species concentration distributions remains significantly difficult due to a shortage of multicomponent diffusion coefficients. In this work, considerable effort has been made to calculate concentration distributions of formaldehyde and benzene vapor volatilized from radiation-proof coatings of reactor containment walls. For this purpose, a numerical model is proposed to simulate species transport and concentration distributions due to full multicomponent diffusion and thermal diffusion. Meanwhile, the in-house UDFs' source code is programmed for solving diffusivities and essential thermophysical properties. After compiling and linking the source code with the numerical model, a pressure-based SIMPLE algorithm is imposed for pressure–velocity coupling calculations. Computational results indicate that concentration distributions are highly dependent on the fluid motion as well as potentially flammable areas decrease gradually with increased ventilation rates. Also, primary and secondary vortices are symmetrically distributed about the vertical centerline of the reactor containment as well as triangular secondary vortices can significantly suppress concentrations of formaldehyde and benzene vapor at the bottom portion of the containment. Finally, excellent agreement is observed between computational results and analytical solutions.
Early Career Professionals’ (Researchers, Practitioners, and Policymakers) Role in Advocating, Disseminating, and Implementing the Global Action Plan on Physical Activity: ISPAH Early Career Network View
Authors: Direito Artur , Murphy Joseph J. , Mclaughlin Matthew , Mair Jacqueline , Mackenzie Kelly , Kamada Masamitsu , Sutherland Rachel , Montgomery Shannon , Shilton Trevor , _ _ 
Published: October 2019

Increasing population levels of physical activity (PA) can assist in achieving the United Nations sustainable development goals, benefiting multiple sectors and contributing to global prosperity. Practices and policies to increase PA levels exist at the subnational, national, and international levels. In 2018, the World Health Organization launched the first Global Action Plan on Physical Activity (GAPPA). The GAPPA provides guidance through a framework of effective and feasible policy actions for increasing PA, and requires engagement and advocacy from a wide spectrum of stakeholders for successful implementation of the proposed actions. Early career professionals, including researchers, practitioners, and policymakers, can play a major role with helping “all people being regularly active” by contributing to 4 overarching areas: (1) generation—of evidence, (2) dissemination—of key messages and evidence, (3) implementation—of the evidence-based actions proposed in the GAPPA, and (4) contributing to advocacy for robust national action plans on PA. The contribution of early career professionals can be achieved through 5 pathways: (1) research, (2) workplace/practice, (3) business, (4) policy, and (5) professional and public opinion. Recommendations of how early career professionals can contribute to the generation, dissemination, and implementation of the evidence and actions proposed by the GAPPA are provided.
Genetic and clinical findings in a Chinese cohort with Leber congenital amaurosis and early onset severe retinal dystrophy
Authors: Xu Ke , Xie Yue , Sun Tengyang , Zhang Xiaohui , Chen Chunjie , Li Yang 
Published: October 2019

BackgroundLeber congenital amaurosis (LCA) and early onset severe retinal dystrophy (EOSRD) are clinically and genetically heterogeneous inherited retinal disorders that cause severe visual impairment in children. The objective of this study was to describe the mutation profile and phenotypic characteristics in Chinese patients with LCA or EOSRD.MethodsRetrospective consecutive case series (2010–2017) study was performed in 148 probands (91 with LCA and 57 with EOSRD). All patients underwent ophthalmic evaluation. Mutations were revealed using targeted next-generation sequencing, followed by Sanger DNA-sequencing and real-time quantitative PCR analysis.ResultsWe identified two diseasing-causing mutations in 88 unrelated patients, heterozygous autosomal dominant mutations in 11 probands and X-linked hemizygous mutations in 11 patients, for an overall mutation detection rate of 74.3% (110/148). We detected 158 different disease-causing mutations involving 14 LCA genes, 16 retinitis pigmentosa or cone-rod dystrophy genes and 3 syndromic retinal dystrophy genes. Of these 158 mutations, 98 were novel. The most common mutation was p.Q141X of AIPL1, with a gene-specific allele frequency of 60%. The first five most frequently mutated genes were AIPL1 (11.0%), RPGRIP1 (8.8%) and CEP290, GUCY2D and RPE65 (each 7.7%) in the patients with LCA and RPGR (12.3%), CRB1 (10.5%), RPE65 (10.5%), RDH12 (7.0%) and RP2 (5.3%) in the patients with EOSRD.ConclusionsOur results revealed that the mutation spectrum of patients with LCA differs from that of the patients with EOSRD and established the configuration of the mutation frequencies for each LCA gene in Chinese patients, thereby providing essential information for future genetic counselling and gene therapy.
Assessing the quality, efficiency and usefulness of the Western Australian population-based Intellectual Disability Exploring Answers (IDEA) surveillance system: a surveillance system evaluation
Authors: Strobel Natalie A , Bourke Jenny , Leonard Helen , Richardson Alice , Edmond Karen M , McAullay Daniel 
Published: October 2019

ObjectivesOur overall aim was to evaluate the Western Australian Intellectual Disability Exploring Answers (IDEA) surveillance system. The primary objective was to evaluate the attributes of the system. The secondary objective was to provide recommendations to data custodians and stakeholders to strengthen the system.MethodThe IDEA system was evaluated using process observation, interviews and secondary data analysis of system attributes: usefulness, simplicity, data quality, acceptability, representativeness, timeliness and stability. 2001 US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines were used.ResultsWe found that the IDEA system was useful, simple, flexible, acceptable, representative, timely and stable. We compared individuals from the IDEA system (n=10 593) with those with cerebral palsy and intellectual disability (ID) (n=582) from another surveillance system. Of the 582 with cerebral palsy and ID, 501 (86.1%) were in the IDEA system and 81 (13.9%) were not. In total, 0.7% of cases (81/10674) with ID were not identified in the IDEA system. There were little differences in cases that were not identified in the IDEA system between Indigenous status, sex and place of residence.ConclusionsThe strengths of the IDEA system include having a high data quality resource contributing to national and international data on ID, strong government support and a dedicated management team. Output from studies linking to IDEA data have had major contributions to the international literature about ID. However, limited resources have prevented it from realising its full potential in relation to translational activities. The IDEA system is a valuable resource to address the needs of people living with ID.
Quality and outcomes in global cancer surgery: protocol for a multicentre, international, prospective cohort study (GlobalSurg 3)
Authors:   NIHR Global Health Research Unit on Global Surgery
Published: October 2019

IntroductionEmpirical, observational data relating to the diagnosis, management and outcome of three common worldwide cancers requiring surgery is lacking. However, it has been demonstrated that patients in low/middle-income countries undergoing surgery for cancer are at increased risk of death and major complications postoperatively. This study aims to determine quality and outcomes in breast, gastric and colorectal cancer surgery across worldwide hospital settings.Methods and analysisThis multicentre, international prospective cohort study will be undertaken by any hospital providing emergency or elective surgical services for breast, gastric or colorectal cancer. Centres will collect observational data on consecutive patients undergoing primary emergency or elective surgery for breast, gastric or colorectal cancer during a 6-month period. The primary outcome is the incidence of mortality and major complication rate at 30 days after cancer surgery. Infrastructure and care processes in the treatment of these cancers worldwide will also be characterised.Ethics and disseminationThis project will not affect clinical practice and has been classified as clinical audit following research ethics review. The protocol will be disseminated through the international GlobalSurg network.Trial registration numberNCT03471494; Pre-results.
Lower secondary school students’ scientific literacy and their proficiency in identifying and appraising health claims in news media: a secondary analysis using large-scale survey data
Authors: Nordheim Lena Victoria , Pettersen Kjell Sverre , Espehaug Birgitte , Flottorp Signe Agnes , Guttersrud Øystein 
Published: October 2019

ObjectivesScientific literacy is assumed necessary for appraising the reliability of health claims. Using a national science achievement test, we explored whether students located at the lower quartile on the latent trait (scientific literacy) scale were likely to identify a health claim in a fictitious brief news report, and whether students located at or above the upper quartile were likely to additionally request information relevant for appraising that claim.DesignSecondary analysis of cross-sectional survey data.Setting and participants2229 Norwegian 10th grade students (50% females) from 97 randomly sampled lower secondary schools who performed the test during April–May 2013.Outcome measuresUsing Rasch modelling, we linked item difficulty and student proficiency in science to locate the proficiencies associated with different percentiles on the latent trait scale. Estimates of students’ proficiency, the difficulty of identifying the claim and the difficulty of making at least one request for information to appraise that claim, were reported in logits.ResultsStudents who reached the lower quartile (located at −0.5 logits) on the scale were not likely to identify the health claim as their proficiency was below the difficulty estimate of that task (0.0 logits). Students who reached the upper quartile (located at 1.4 logits) were likely to identify the health claim but barely proficient at making one request for information (task difficulty located at 1.5 logits). Even those who performed at or above the 90th percentile typically made only one request for information, predominantly methodological aspects.ConclusionsWhen interpreting the skill to request relevant information as expressing students’ proficiency in critical appraisal of health claims, we found that only students with very high proficiency in science possessed that skill. There is a need for teachers, healthcare professionals and researchers to collaborate to create learning resources for developing these lifelong learning skills.