bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The molecular effects of electrical stimulation on the muscle components of the urethra of female rats after trauma by vaginal distention
Authors: Salerno Gisela R. F. , Bortolini Maria A. T. , Gomes Regina C. T. , Feitosa Suellen M. , Simões Manuel J. , Zanoteli Edmar , Castanho Fernanda L. , Castro Rodrigo A.
Published: December 2019

Aims

To evaluate the expression of genes and proteins related to the urethral muscles of female rats after trauma by vaginal distention (VD) and after electrical stimulation therapy (EST).

Methods

We compared the urethras of four groups of 20 animals each: control without trauma (C), 7 (recent‐trauma) and 30 days (late‐trauma) post‐VD, and VD‐treated with EST. We evaluated the expression of myogenic regulatory factors MYOD1 and myogenin (MYOG); skeletal muscle myosin heavy chain 1, 2, and 3 (MYH1, MYH2, and MYH3); smooth muscle MYH11; and myosin light chain 9 (MYL9). We used real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, Western blot analysis, and immunohistochemistry.

Results

MYOD1 and MYOG genes were overexpressed in the recent‐trauma group compared with the other groups (P < .05). MYH1 and MYH3 genes were upregulated in the recent‐trauma group compared with the control and EST groups (P < .05). The MYH2 gene was overexpressed in the late‐trauma group (P < .05), while the MYH2 protein was significantly increased in the EST group compared with control, recent‐trauma and late‐trauma groups by 5‐, 3‐, and 2.7‐fold change, respectively (P < .05). MYL9 and MYH11 messenger RNA were overexpressed in both trauma groups compared with control and EST groups (P < .05). MYH11 protein was not different among the study groups (P > .05).

Conclusions

EST enhances the recovery of the damaged urethral tissue of rats mainly by acting on the striated‐muscle components. The MYH2 pathway underlies the positive effects of EST in the external urethral sphincter.
The home visit communication skills inventory: Piloting a tool to measure community health worker fidelity to training in rural South Africa
Authors: Laurenzi Christina A. , Gordon Sarah , Skeen Sarah , Coetzee Bronwynè J. , Bishop Julia , Chademana Emma , Tomlinson Mark
Published: December 2019

Community‐based home visiting programs using community health workers (CHWs) have become popular modes of delivering health care services, especially in settings where health workers are overburdened and resources are limited. Yet, little is known about the processes that shape effective implementation in low‐resource settings, and whether these processes adhere to home visitors’ training. This study used the newly‐developed Home Visit Communication Skills Inventory (HCSI) to explore the delivery of a CHW program in rural South Africa. Routine home visits from CHWs to their maternal care clients were audio‐recorded with consent, and later transcribed and translated into English. The HCSI, devised and piloted using existing frameworks and program‐specific training components, consisted of 21 items covering domains related to active listening, active delivery, and active connecting, and was used to score English transcripts of the home visits. The HCSI was used to generate general frequencies and aggregate scores for each CHW. Eighty‐four home visits by 14 CHWs showed a diverse application of communication skills. Active listening and active delivery were common, with fewer instances of active connecting observed. Practices disaggregated by CHW showcased varying strengths by an individual. In reviewing visit characteristics, longer average visit duration was significantly correlated with the presence of multiple types of active connecting skills. While technical skills were widely observed, fewer CHWs engaged in more complex “connecting” skills. The HCSI is a feasible, low‐cost, and practical way to describe home visit fidelity among CHWs. Audio‐based checklists can be used to describe fidelity to a model in the absence of additional supervisory resources.
The research on multi‐responsive azobenzene block copolymer and its self‐assembly behavior
Authors: Cao Ying , Cao Jie , Zhang Jiatian , Zhang Dandan , Li Meng , Xu Yiting , He Kaibin , Chen Guorong , Yuan Conghui , Dai Lizong
Published: December 2019

The azobenzene‐based amphiphilic copolymers have drawn significant attention as a kind of multi‐responsive smart materials. The demand on deeper investigation of how the azobenzene group influences the micelles formation and light‐responsive behavior on molecular level is very urgent. In this article, multi‐responsive block copolymers, poly (acrylic acid)‐block‐poly[4'‐[[(2‐Methacryloyloxy)ethyl]ethylainino]azobenzene‐co‐poly (ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate] (PAA‐b‐P (AzoMA‐co‐PEGMA)), with pH‐, light‐ and reduction‐responsiveness were synthesized by the monomers of AzoMA, PEGMA and acrylic acid via reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer polymerization (RAFT). The amphiphilic block copolymer presented aggregation‐induced emission effect, and it was pH, light, and reduction responsive. The results showed that the micelle size decreased with the decreasing of pH within a certain range. However, the particle size of micelles increased significantly when the pH was 4. Once adding reduction agent, the micelles were disassembly. Fluorescent molecule of Nile red was selected as a hydrophobic guest molecule to study the properties of encapsulating and releasing abilities of block copolymer micelles for guest molecules. The results showed that the loading capacity of three kinds of copolymer micelles was closely related to the aggregates formed by the hydrophobic block, mainly azobenzene block. Besides, the block copolymer micelles could release a certain amount of Nile red under the irradiation of UV light, the reduction with Na2S2O4 as reductant, and the exposure to alkaline environment. The mechanism of how the different status of azobenzene group influenced the self‐assembly and multi‐responsive behavior was explored on molecular level.
Subcutaneous immunoglobulin replacement following CD19‐specific chimeric antigen receptor T‐cell therapy for B‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia in pediatric patients
Authors: Arnold Danielle E. , Maude Shannon L. , Callahan Colleen A. , DiNofia Amanda M. , Grupp Stephan A. , Heimall Jennifer R.
Published: December 2019

Twenty‐eight patients were maintained on subcutaneous immunoglobulin replacement for persistent B‐cell aplasia and agammaglobulinemia following CD19‐targeted chimeric antigen receptor T‐cell therapy for B‐cell lymphoblastic leukemia. Patients were transitioned from intravenous to subcutaneous immunoglobulin replacement at a median of 11.5 months (range, 4‐20). Increasing serum IgG level was significantly associated with a lower rate of sinopulmonary infection (P = 0.0072). The median serum IgG level during infection‐free periods was 1000 mg/dL (range, 720‐1430), which was significantly higher than IgG levels in patients with sinopulmonary infections. As such, we recommend maintaining a goal IgG level > 1000 mg/dL to provide optimal protection.
Transverse impact responses and failure mechanism of 3D braided composites by mesostructure model
Authors: Lyu Zheng‐Qiang , Li Yuan‐Yuan , Wang Ya‐Lan , Chen Ting , Zhang Yan , Guo Chong‐Bin
Published: December 2019

This article aims to establish a full‐size mesostructure model of three‐dimensional (3D) braided composites based on the real structural characteristics, to explore the transverse impact response characteristics and failure mechanism of 3D braided composites at different impact speeds. The results showed that four stress wave cycles were applied on the composite and decreased gradually. The corresponding displacement, peak load, and energy absorption capacity were investigated. All the values increased with the increase of impact velocity. In addition, the stress propagation features into length, width, and thickness directions of composite were distinctly different. Finally, the failure modes and damage morphologies were examined to reveal the failure mechanism of 3D braided composite under transverse impact loading.
Acid‐catalyzed decomposition and stability of diazofuranones: Experimental and mechanistic study
Authors: Semenok Dmitrii , Mereshchenko Andrey S. , Medvedev Jury , Visentin Giorgio
Published: December 2019

Reactions of substituted 4‐diazotetrahydrofurane‐3‐ones with various acids (pKa < 3) irrespective of acid strength give rise to elimination of nitrogen with subsequent 1,2‐nucleophilic migration of aryl (alkyl) groups from C‐5 to C‐4 position of heterocyclic core with quantitative formation of regioisomeric 3(2Н)furanones (yields up to 99%). Regioselectivity of this acid‐catalyzed process increases with the decreasing of solvent polarity and strongly depends on the nature of substituents in the aryl groups. The suggested mechanism of this reaction via intermediate RN2+ cation was confirmed by density functional theory (DFT) calculations at the PBE0/6‐31+G(d) functional due to good agreement between calculated and experimental data on the acid stability of diazoketones in different solvents.
Small for gestational age birth may increase airflow limitation in bronchopulmonary dysplasia
Authors: Kim Yoon Hee , Kim Kyung Won , Eun Ho Sun , Shin Jung Eun , Sol In Suk , Kim Soo Yeon , Kim Young Suh , Sohn Myung Hyun , Namgung Ran
Published: December 2019

Objectives

To determine significant indices for assessing the pulmonary function of infants according to bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) severity and to evaluate whether small for gestational age (SGA) could affect pulmonary function in BPD.

Methods

We evaluated 117 preterm infants who had undergone tidal breathing flow‐volume loop and multiple‐breath washout analyses within 7 months after birth. We categorized preterm infants according to BPD severity into mild/moderate BPD (n = 86), severe BPD (n = 21), and without BPD (n = 10) and the presence of SGA or appropriate gestational age (AGA) using the Fenton growth chart. We evaluated nine healthy term infants as controls.

Results

The tidal breathing ratio (time to peak expiratory flow/expiratory time [tPEF/tE]) was significantly lower in infants with severe BPD than in those with mild/moderate BPD. Lung clearance index (LCI) was not different based on BPD severity. In the correlation analysis after adjusting for gestational age and sex, tPEF/tE was correlated with the duration of mechanical ventilation (r = −0.347, P < .001) and the duration of oxygen supply (r = −0.248, P = .013) in infants with BPD. The proportion of “lower tPEF/tE,” defined as below the cut‐off value, was greater in SGA infants (P = .017), while no significant difference was seen in the percentage of “higher LCI,” defined as above the cut‐off value between SGA and AGA infants.

Conclusions

In infants with BPD, tPEF/tE could be a useful pulmonary index which shows lower values in severe BPD. The finding of SGA in infants with BPD could be associated with poor pulmonary function related to the tPEF/tE values.
Reference values of sniff nasal inspiratory pressure in healthy children
Authors: Marcelino Ana A. , Fregonezi Guilherme A. , Lira Maria G. A. , de Oliveira Layana M. , Araújo Palomma R. S. , Parreira Verônica F. , de Andrade Arméle D. , Resqueti Vanessa
Published: November 2019

Objective

To determine reference values of sniff nasal inspiratory pressure (SNIP) in healthy children.

Methods

This cross‐sectional observational study included healthy children aged 6 to 11 years of both sexes. The volunteers underwent a pulmonary function test to rule out respiratory disorders. Respiratory muscle strength was measured using maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) and maximal expiratory pressure (MEP), respectively, with MIP close to functional residual capacity (FRC) and residual volume, while MEP to total lung capacity. SNIP was performed through the nostril contralateral to the occlusion, close to FRC. Two 6‐minute walk tests were performed to assess functional exercise capacity.

Results

The sample comprised 121 healthy children (62 girls); 54% presented body mass index (BMI) percentile less than 85th and 46% more than equal to 85th percentile, higher than expected. SNIP values were similar between sexes (91.1 ± 21.0 cmH2O in girls and 87.7 ± 19.4 cmH2O in boys; P = .36) as well as the means of lower limits of normal (56.88 cmH2O for girls and 56.66 cmH2O for boys). Girls presented SNIP measurements larger than those of the MIP of FRC (P < .0001), while boys presented similar mean values for both. We found a positive correlation between SNIP and BMI percentile (r = .25, P = .04) in girls, unlike boys, in whom no correlation was observed.

Conclusions

SNIP reference values and mean lower limits of normal were defined for healthy children aged 6 to 11. BMI percentile seems to positively influence the inspiratory muscle strength measured by SNIP in girls only.
The clinical predictive factors and postoperative histopathological parameters associated with upgrading after radical prostatectomy: A contemporary analysis with grade groups
Authors: Erdem Selcuk , Verep Samed , Bagbudar Sidar , Ozluk Yasemin , Sanli Oner , Ozcan Faruk
Published: December 2019

Background and Aim

Upgrading after radical prostatectomy (RP) is an ongoing problem since first description of Gleason score. In this retrospective study, our aim is to investigate upgrading after RP in grade groups (GG) and clinical predictive, and postoperative histopathological factors associated with GG upgrading (GGU).

Patients and Methods

A total of 753 patients undergoing RP between January 2006 and June 2019 at our institution were investigated. Overall cohort were divided into two groups according to GGU status after RP as nonupgrading and upgrading. Retrospectively documented preoperative clinical and postoperative histopathological parameters were compared between two groups. Furthermore, we investigated a subgroup of institutional cohort (n = 398) whose prostate biopsy (Pbx) and RP were performed in our institution and we also divided this cohort into two groups according to GGU status. χ2 and Mann‐Whitney U tests were used for comparative analyses. The independent preoperative predictive and postoperative histopathological factors associated with GGU were investigated using multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results

The total GGU was 55.8% in overall cohort and 45.2% in institutional cohort. The GGU was found as the most common in bioptic GG1 group in both overall (64.0%), and institutional (54.5%) cohorts. In multivariate analyses, the noninstitutional Pbx (odds ratio [OR] = 2.56; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.86‐3.51; P < .001), tumor positive core numbers in Pbx (OR = 1.11; 95%CI: 1.04‐1.19; P = .003), increased prostate specific antigen (PSA) density (OR = 3.59; 95%CI: 1.03‐12.52, P = .045) and age (OR = 1.03; 95%CI: 1.00‐1.05, P = .046) were independent clinical predictors of GGU in overall cohort whereas only increased PSA density (OR = 5.94; 95%CI: 1.28‐27.50; P = .023) was independent predictor in institutional cohort. Among postoperative histopathological factors, perineural invasion (OR = 1.57; 95%CI: 1.70‐3.87; P < .001 and OR = 2.53; 95%CI: 1.46‐4.40; P = .001, respectively), increased maximum tumor diameter (OR = 1.46; 95%CI: 1.23‐1.73; P < .001 and OR = 1.33; 95%CI: 1.07‐1.66; P = .010, respectively), and high‐grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (HGPIN) existence at tumor surrounding tissue (OR = 1.96; 95%CI: 1.32‐2.90; P = .001 and OR = 1.87; 95%CI: 1.10‐3.21; P = .022, respectively) were independently associated with GGU after RP, in both of overall and institutional cohorts.

Conclusions

Noninstitutional prostate biopsy, increased PSA density, higher tumor positive cores in Pbx and older age are the clinical predictors of upgrading after RP in contemporary GG. Perineural invasion, increased maximum tumor diameter, and HGPIN existence at tumor surrounding tissue are postoperative histopathological factors associated with GGU.
Activity of native tick kinins and peptidomimetics on the cognate target G protein‐coupled receptor from the cattle fever tick, Rhipicephalus microplus (Acari: Ixodidae)
Authors: Xiong Caixing , Kaczmarek Krzysztof , Zabrocki Janusz , Nachman Ronald J , Pietrantonio Patricia V
Published: December 2019

BACKGROUND

Kinins are multifunctional neuropeptides that regulate key insect physiological processes such as diuresis, feeding, and ecdysis. However, the physiological roles of kinins in ticks are unclear. Furthermore, ticks have an expanded number of kinin paracopies in the kinin gene. Silencing the kinin receptor (KR) in females of Rhipicephalus microplus reduces reproductive fitness. Thus, it appears the kinin signaling system is important for tick physiology and its disruption may have potential for tick control.

RESULTS

We determined the activities of endogenous kinins on the KR, a G protein‐coupled receptor, and identified potent peptidomimetics. Fourteen predicted R. microplus kinins (Rhimi‐K), and 11 kinin analogs containing aminoisobutyric acid (Aib) were tested. The latter incorporated tick kinin sequences and/or were modified for enhanced resistance to arthropod peptidases. A high‐throughput screen using a calcium fluorescence assay in 384‐well plates was performed. All tested kinins and Aib analogs were full agonists. The most potent kinin and two kinin analogs were equipotent. Analogs 2414 ([Aib]FS[Aib]WGa) and 2412 ([Aib]FG[Aib]WGa) were the most active with EC50 values of 0.9 and 1.1 nM, respectively, matching the EC50 of the most potent tick kinin, Rhimi‐K‐14 (QDSFNPWGa) (EC50 = 1 nM). The potent analog 2415 ([Aib]FR[Aib]WGa, EC50 = 6.8 nM) includes both Aib molecules for resistance to peptidases and a positively charged residue, R, for enhanced water solubility and amphiphilic character.

CONCLUSION

These tick kinins and pseudopeptides expand the repertoire of reagents for tick physiology and toxicology towards finding novel targets for tick management. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Below‐Bandgap Photoluminescence from GaAs
Authors: Roca Ronel Christian , Fukui Kosei , Mizuno Hiroto , Suzuki Mikihito , Kamiya Itaru
Published: December 2019

The below‐bandgap photoluminescence (PL) from semi‐insulating (s.i.) GaAs is investigated. It is found that various electronic states that give rise to near‐infrared (NIR) PL peaks are generated through processes that are standard for epitaxial growth of InAlGaAs structures on (001) GaAs substrates. Moreover, the PL signals from these states overlap with those from InAs quantum dots, wetting layers, and InGaAs structures, complicating the design of devices for telecommunications or intermediate band solar cells. The spatial positions of the various defects are also investigated by below‐gap excitation and back‐illuminated PL measurements. The possible identities of the defects are also presented. The present results provide guidelines for distinguishing the desired electronic states from thermal treatment‐induced defect states.
Characterizations of REE:Tb2O3 Magneto‐Optical Ceramics
Authors: Balabanov Stanislav S. , Permin Dmitry A. , Rostokina Elena Ye. , Palashov Oleg V. , Snetkov Ilya L.
Published: December 2019

The magneto‐optical ceramics of terbium oxide doped with different rare earth elements (REE) REE:Tb2O3 (REE—Y3+, Lu3+, Sc3+, Ce3+, Dy3+, Ho3+, Yb3+, Nd3+) are successfully fabricated by hot pressing using powders obtained by the self‐propagating high‐temperature synthesis (SHS) method. The prepared REE:Tb2O3 ceramics have good optical quality and magneto‐optical properties. The in‐line transmittance of Tb2O3 ceramics doped with REE except Sc3+ is close to undoped terbium oxide, especially in the long‐wavelength region. The Verdet constant of the REE:Tb2O3 samples considered at 633 nm is about 3.3 and 2.6 times higher in absolute value than that of the commercial terbium–gallium garnet (TGG) single crystal and terbium–aluminum garnet (TAG) ceramics, respectively. It is noted that REE (except Yb3+ and Nd3+) doping only slightly increases the Verdet constant of pure Tb2O3 (when the content of terbium ions in the optical element is taken into consideration in the calculation). The dilution of the Tb2O3 matrix with REE in relatively high concentrations leads to a decrease in the absolute value of the Verdet constant.
Nickel Oxide–Based Heterostructures with Large Band Offsets
Authors: Karsthof Robert , von Wenckstern Holger , Zúñiga-Pérez Jesús , Deparis Christiane , Grundmann Marius
Published: December 2019

The authors present research on the electronic transport in heterostructures based on p‐type nickel oxide (NiO) with the n‐type oxide semiconductors zinc oxide (ZnO) and cadmium oxide (CdO). NiO is a desirable candidate for application in (opto)electronic devices. Because of its small electron affinity, heterojunctions with most n‐type oxide semiconductors exhibit conduction and valence band offsets at the heterointerface in excess of 1 eV. ZnO/NiO junctions exhibit a so‐called type‐II band alignment, making interfacial electron–hole recombination the only process enabling vertical current flow through the structure. These heterojunctions are nevertheless shown to be of practical use in optoelectronic devices, as exemplified here by UV‐converting transparent solar cells. These devices, although exhibiting high conversion efficiencies, suffer from two light‐activated recombination channels connected to the type‐II interface, one of which the authors analyze in more detail here. Furthermore, CdO/NiO contacts are studied—a heterostructure with even larger band offsets, achieving a type‐III band alignment which theoretically enables the development of a 2D electronic system consisting of topologically protected states. The authors present experiments demonstrating that CdO/NiO heterostructures indeed hosts a conductive layer absent in both materials when studied separately.
Identification and characterization of saikosaponins as antagonists of transient receptor potential A1 channel
Authors: Lee Gyeongbeen , Choi Jiwon , Nam Yeon‐Ju , Song Myung‐Jin , Kim Jin Kyu , Kim Woo Jung , Kim Pansoo , Lee Jong Suk , Kim Songmi , No Kyoung Tai , Lee Ji Hyun , Lee Jin Koo , Choi Yongmun
Published: November 2019

Neuropathic pain is associated with an increased sensitivity to painful stimuli or abnormal sensitivity to otherwise innocuous stimuli. However, in addition to adverse effects, currently available drugs have shown limited response in patients with neuropathic pain, which provides a rationale to explore new drug classes acting on novel targets and with better efficacy and safety profiles. Here, we found that saikosaponins potently inhibit agonist‐induced activation of the transient receptor potential A1 (TRPA1) channel, which has been reported to mediate neuropathic pain by sensing a variety of chemical irritants. Molecular docking and site‐directed mutagenesis analyses suggested that saikosaponins bind to the hydrophobic pocket in TRPA1 near the Asn855 residue, which, when mutated to Ser, was previously associated with enhanced pain perception in humans. In support of these findings, saikosaponin D significantly attenuated agonist‐induced nociceptive responses and vincristine‐induced mechanical hypersensitivity in mice. These results indicate that saikosaponins are TRPA1 antagonists and provide a basis for further elaboration of saikosaponin derivatives for the development of new therapeutics for neuropathic pain.
Subclinical community‐acquired Acinetobacter pneumonia associated with mature cystic teratoma masquerading as lung abscess
Authors: Ling Sai‐on , Yau Pak‐yuen Anthony , Kwan Hoi‐yee , Yim Chie‐wai , Poon Yik‐ning , Mok Thomas
Published: December 2019

A 22‐year‐old lady presented with fever and right pleuritic chest pain with chest X‐ray showing a right suprahilar shadow. Her symptoms largely subsided with antibiotic therapy but the shadow remained unresolved. Computerized tomography (CT) scan of thorax showed consolidation over the anterior segment of the right upper lobe with a hypodense area suspicious of a lung abscess. Fine needle aspirates of the lesion grew Acinetobacter baumannii twice but the shadow persisted despite multiple courses of antibiotics targeted at the organism. Right video‐assisted thoracoscopic surgery was done and the pathological diagnosis was a mature cystic teratoma with adjacent lung consolidation. Culture of the lung specimen also grew Acinetobacter baumannii. This was the first reported case of subclinical community‐acquired Acinetobacter pneumonia in association with a mature cystic teratoma, which masquerades as a lung abscess.
A multilevel sampled‐data approach for resilient navigation and control of autonomous systems
Authors: Jafarnejadsani Hamidreza , Wan Neng , Hovakimyan Naira , Voulgaris Petros G.
Published: December 2019

Autonomous systems are rapidly becoming an integrated part of the modern life. Safe and secure navigation and control of these systems present significant challenges in the presence of uncertainties, physical failures, and cyber attacks. In this paper, we formulate a navigation and control problem for autonomous systems using a multilevel control structure, in which the high‐level reference commands are limited by a saturation function, whereas the low‐level controller tracks the reference by compensating for disturbances and uncertainties. For this purpose, we consider a class of nested, uncertain, multiple‐input–multiple‐output systems subject to reference command saturation, possibly with nonminimum phase zeros. A multirate output‐feedback
adaptive controller is developed as the low‐level controller. The sampled‐data (SD) design of this controller facilitates the direct implementation on digital computers, where the input/output signals are available at discrete time instances with different sampling rates. In addition, stealthy zero‐dynamics attacks become detectable by considering a multirate SD formulation. Robust stability and performance of the overall closed‐loop system with command saturation and multirate
adaptive control are analyzed. Simulation scenarios for navigation and control of a fixed‐wing drone under failures/attacks are provided to validate the theoretical findings.
Social Justice Work at Religiously Affiliated and Public Institutions
Authors: Bennett LaVonya , Walton Marci K. , Boettcher Michelle L.
Published: December 2019

This chapter explores tensions and opportunities for social justice work in residence life at religiously affiliated and public institutional environments.
Damage index of reinforced concrete members based on the energy dissipation capability degradation
Authors: Wang Yukui , Liu Zhefeng , Yang Weijun , Hu Yi , Chen Yuping
Published: December 2019

Based on the estimation method of the energy dissipation capacity of reinforced concrete members under variable amplitude displacement cycles, the damage quantitative index of reinforced concrete members based on the energy dissipation capacity degradation is proposed. This index can establish a quantitative relationship with the energy dissipation capacity requirements and material parameters (yield force, yield displacement, and stirrup ratio). To understand the performance classification criteria of reinforced concrete members under variable amplitude displacement cycles based on the damage quantitative index, nine reinforced concrete members with different reinforcement conditions were tested. It was found that the reinforced concrete members can be classified as undergoing no damage (0 < Dk ≤ 0.3), mild damage (0.3 < Dk ≤ 0.6), moderate damage (0.6 < Dk ≤ 0.7), severe damage (0.7 < Dk ≤ 0.8), and destruction (0.8 < Dk ≤ 1), where the five performance states are based on the damage quantitative index. The performance classification criteria were verified by 18 flexural failure specimens in the Pacific Earthquake Engineering Research Center database.
Environmental contours for circular‐linear variables based on the direct sampling method
Authors: Vanem Erik , Hafver Andreas , Nalvarte Gladys
Published: December 2019

Environmental contours are often used in the design of engineering structures to identify extreme environmental conditions that may give rise to extreme loads and responses. The perhaps most common application of environmental contours is for wave climate variables such as significant wave height and wave period. However, for the design of wind energy installations, the joint distribution of wind speed and wind direction may be equally important. In this case, joint modelling of linear (wind speed) and circular (wind direction) variables are needed, and methods for establishing environmental contours for circular‐linear variables will be required.

In this paper, different ways of establishing environmental contours for circular‐linear variables will be presented and applied to a joint distribution model for wind speed and wind direction. In particular, the direct sampling approach to environmental contours will be modified to the case where one of the variables is cyclic. In addition, contours based on exceedance planes in polar coordinates will be established, and circular‐linear contours will also be calculated based on the inverse FORM (I‐FORM) approach.
Responsible Universities in Context
Authors: Geschwind Lars , Kekäle Jouni , Pinheiro Rómulo , Sørensen Mads P.
Published: December 2019

In this introductory chapter, the concept of the responsible university is introduced and put into context, first concerning other organisations and society at large, secondly in a historical perspective and thirdly related to policy initiatives across the globe. We also discuss how to implement this concept within the complex organisations that universities constitute. Lastly, we present some key features of the Nordic countries and introduce the empirical chapters of the book.
The Changing Meanings of ‘Responsible University’. From a Nordic-Keynesian Welfare State to a Schumpeterian Competition State
Authors: Kohvakka Mikko , Nevala Arto , Nori Hanna
Published: December 2019

In the Nordic countries, a gradual restructuring from a Nordic-Keynesian welfare state towards a more international, Schumpeterian competition state model began in the 1980s and the early 1990s. This transformation affected socio-spatial discourses and ways of thinking about the responsibility of universities. Whereas the strategies of the Nordic-Keynesian welfare state regime aimed towards de-centralized socio-spatial formations based on regional political ideas emphasizing national integrity, the Schumpeterian competition state strategies put less stress on territorial and social equalization processes and focused, instead, on competitiveness, specialization, and a more centralized or urbanized state territory. This chapter aims to investigate the evolution of the meaning of socio-spatially responsible university in Finnish higher education policy from the late 1950s to the 2010s. Firstly, we describe how the idea of spatial (regional) responsibility of universities has been conceptualized during the Nordic-Keynesian welfare state era and the following Schumpeterian competition state period. Secondly, within the above-mentioned spatial and temporal framework, we analyse how changes in the socio-economic background of students and admission processes of university applicants have influenced the redefinition of a socio-spatially responsible university.
The Overlapping Uncertainties of Film Professionals
Authors: Moghaddari Sonja
Published: December 2019

Returning to an interpersonal micro-perspective, this chapter centers on the development of ties between the three film professionals Hushang, Kian, and Milad and examines the way they try to generate capital in German and Iranian local and transnational professional social fields. Building on previous research on social capital and the film business, the analysis brings the difficulties of interdependence in internal relations to the forefront. Furthermore, I highlight how systems of value prevailing in different social fields may both intersect and overlap, thus accounting for the fact that agency in different social fields is interconnected. The ways the three men deal with uncertainties deriving from migration and the job market illustrates that people with similar resources may still find very different ways of dealing with barriers to inclusion.
The Prevention of Chronic Diseases Through eHealth: A Practical Overview
Authors: Monzani Dario , Pizzoli Silvia Francesca Maria
Published: November 2019

Disease prevention is an umbrella term embracing individual-based or population-based interventions aimed at preventing the manifestation of diseases (primary prevention), reducing the impact of a disease that has arisen (secondary prevention), or mitigating the impact of an ongoing illness (tertiary prevention). Digital health has the potential to improve prevention of chronic diseases. Its application ranges from effective mHealth weight-loss intervention to prevent or delay the onset of diabetes in overweight adults to the cost-effective intervention on the provision of mental-health care via mobile-based or Internet-based programs to reduce the incidence or the severity of anxiety. The present contribution focuses on the effectiveness of eHealth preventive interventions and on the role of digital health in improving health promotion and disease prevention. We also give a practical overview on how eHealth interventions have been effectively implemented, developed, and delivered for the primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention of chronic diseases.
Introduction
Authors: Jarmai Katharina
Published: December 2019

The concept of Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI) originates in discourses on emerging technologies and research ethics in contested innovative fields, such as nanotechnologies or geo-engineering, and has been predominantly driven by European research and innovation policy over the past 10 years. The concept was initially developed and introduced by policy makers and social scientists, but recent studies have aimed to shed light on the implementation of responsible research and innovation practices in business. The contributions collected in this book are a result of work conducted by seven partner organisations in the European funded Horizon 2020 project “COMPASS – Evidence and opportunities for responsible innovation in SMEs”. In combination, they illustrate that responsible innovation (RI) has been emerging as a new field in the ongoing discourse on the role and responsibility of business in society.
Learning from Sustainability-Oriented Innovation
Authors: Jarmai Katharina
Published: December 2019

This chapter argues that insights from the realm of sustainability-oriented innovation can provide useful answers to the question of why Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) would (or should) become interested in implementing responsible innovation practices. It is based on the assumption that “responsible innovation” and “sustainability-oriented innovation” are different approaches aimed at orienting innovation towards increased positive impacts on social and natural environments. Motivations and influences for pursuing sustainability-oriented innovation have been studied in the past, and can provide insights into reasons for pursuing the implementation of responsible innovation practices.
Parent personality is linked to juvenile mortality and stress behavior in the arctic fox (Vulpes lagopus)
Authors: Choi Seoyun , Grocutt Emma , Erlandsson Rasmus , Angerbjörn Anders
Published: December 2019

Life history theory predicts that individuals will differ in their risk-taking behavior according to their expected future fitness. Understanding consequences of such individual variation within a behavioral trait is crucial in explaining potential trade-offs between different traits and in predicting future dynamics in changing environments. Here, we studied individuals in a wild arctic fox population to explore if (1) individual variation in risk-taking behaviors of adult arctic foxes and in stress-dealing behaviors of their juveniles exist and are consistent over time to verify the existence of personality traits; (2) those behavioral traits in adults and juveniles are correlated; (3) they can explain fitness-related components (i.e., juvenile physical condition, mortality rate). We presented simple field experiments assessing behavioral traits by observing adult reactions toward approaching observers, and juvenile behaviors while trapping. Through the experiments, we found highly consistent individual variation of adults in vigilance and boldness levels, and more flexible juvenile behavioral traits categorized as investigating, passive, and escaping. The offspring of bolder adults exhibited more investigating behaviors and were less passive than the offspring of shy adults. Juvenile physical condition was not related to their mortality nor any behavioral traits of either parents or themselves. Lastly, highly investigating and active juveniles with bold parents had significantly lower mortality rates. This shows that interactions between parent personality and juvenile behavioral traits affect a fitness-related component in the life history of individuals.

Significance statement

The recent surge of interest in consistent individual difference in behavior, also called as animal personality, has already focused on its fitness consequences, but few studies have investigated the interactions between parent and offspring personality, and their ecological consequences. Moreover, this has rarely been studied in wild canids. The arctic fox is a charismatic species showing wide individual variation in behaviors. They live in highly fluctuating tundra ecosystems providing different selection regimes, making it even more eco-evolutionarily intriguing. Yet, few studies looked into behavioral traits and their importance in this system. While introducing simple methods to improve personality research in the wild, we provide a unique example of how variation in both parents and their juveniles collectively works for group dynamics in a cyclic population. This provides a firm basic for understanding behavior-mediated dynamics and opens up broader questions on how fluctuating environments exert varying pressures on individual differences.
Proposal for a National Blueprint Framework to Monitor Progress on Water-Related Sustainable Development Goals in Europe
Authors: Essex B. , Koop S. H. A. , Van Leeuwen C. J.
Published: December 2019

The 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) underpinned by 169 targets presents national governments with huge challenges for implementation. We developed a proposal for a National Blueprint Framework (NBF) with 24 water-related indicators, centered on SDG 6 (clean water and sanitation for all), each with a specific target. We applied the NBF to 28 EU Member States (EU-28) and conclude that:

The current SDG 6 indicators are useful for monitoring progress toward water-related targets but their usefulness can be improved by focusing more on their practical implementation.

The extension of SDG 6 with complementary indicators (e.g. for the circular economy of water) and quantitative policy targets is urgently needed. This will benefit the communication process and progress at the science-policy interface.

SDG indicators can be improved in a SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound) manner and by setting clear policy targets for each indicator, allowing for measuring distance-to-targets. This allows country-to-country comparison and learning, and accelerates the SDG implementation process.

We propose 24 water-related indicators centered on SDG 6, with complementary indicators including quantitative policy targets. The approach is doable, easily scalable, and flexibly deployable by collecting information for the EU-28.

Main gaps in the EU-28 are observed for water quality, wastewater treatment, nutrient, and energy recovery, as well as climate adaptation to extreme weather events (heat, droughts, and floods).

The framework was less successful for non-OECD countries due to lack of data and EU-centric targets for each indicator. This needs further research.
Impact of the Kaiser score on clinical decision-making in BI-RADS 4 mammographic calcifications examined with breast MRI
Authors: Wengert G. J. , Pipan F. , Almohanna J. , Bickel H. , Polanec S. , Kapetas P. , Clauser P. , Pinker K. , Helbich T. H. , Baltzer P. A. T.
Published: December 2019

Objectives

To investigate whether the application of the Kaiser score for breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) might downgrade breast lesions that present as mammographic calcifications and avoid unnecessary breast biopsies

Methods

This IRB-approved, retrospective, cross-sectional, single-center study included 167 consecutive patients with suspicious mammographic calcifications and histopathologically verified results. These patients underwent a pre-interventional breast MRI exam for further diagnostic assessment before vacuum-assisted stereotactic-guided biopsy (95 malignant and 72 benign lesions). Two breast radiologists with different levels of experience independently read all examinations using the Kaiser score, a machine learning–derived clinical decision-making tool that provides probabilities of malignancy by a formalized combination of diagnostic criteria. Diagnostic performance was assessed by receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis and inter-reader agreement by the calculation of Cohen’s kappa coefficients.

Results

Application of the Kaiser score revealed a large area under the ROC curve (0.859–0.889). Rule-out criteria, with high sensitivity, were applied to mass and non-mass lesions alike. The rate of potentially avoidable breast biopsies ranged between 58.3 and 65.3%, with the lowest rate observed with the least experienced reader.

Conclusions

Applying the Kaiser score to breast MRI allows stratifying the risk of breast cancer in lesions that present as suspicious calcifications on mammography and may thus avoid unnecessary breast biopsies.

Key Points

• The Kaiser score is a helpful clinical decision tool for distinguishing malignant from benign breast lesions that present as calcifications on mammography.

• Application of the Kaiser score may obviate 58.3–65.3% of unnecessary stereotactic biopsies of suspicious calcifications.

• High Kaiser scores predict breast cancer with high specificity, aiding clinical decision-making with regard to re-biopsy in case of negative results.
Avoiding skull radiographs in infants with suspected inflicted injury who also undergo head CT: “a no-brainer?”
Authors: Martin Andrew , Paddock Michael , Johns Christopher S. , Smith Jessica , Raghavan Ashok , Connolly Daniel J. A. , Offiah Amaka C.
Published: December 2019

Objectives

To assess whether head CT with 3D reconstruction can replace skull radiographs (SXR) in the imaging investigation of suspected physical abuse (SPA)/abusive head trauma (AHT).

Methods

PACS was interrogated for antemortem skeletal surveys performed for SPA, patients younger than 2 years, SXR and CT performed within 4 days of each other. Paired SXR and CT were independently reviewed. One reviewer analysed CT without and (3 months later) with 3D reconstructions. SXR and CT expert consensus review formed the gold standard. Observer reliability was calculated.

Results

A total of 104 SXR/CT examination pairs were identified, mean age 6.75 months (range 4 days to 2 years); 21 (20%) had skull fractures; two fractures on CT were missed on SXR. There were no fractures on SXR that were not seen on CT. For SXR and CT, respectively: PPV reviewer 1, 95% confidence interval (CI) 48–82% and 85–100%; reviewer 2, 67–98% and 82–100%; and NPV reviewer 1, 95%, CI 88–98% and 96–100%; reviewer 2, 88–97% and 88–98%. Inter- and intra-observer reliability were respectively the following: SXR, excellent (kappa = 0.831) and good (kappa = 0.694); CT, excellent (kappa = 0.831) and perfect (kappa = 1). All results were statistically significant (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

CT has greater diagnostic accuracy than SXR in detecting skull fractures which is increased on concurrent review of 3D reconstructions and should be performed in every case of SPA/AHT. SXR does not add further diagnostic information and can be omitted from the skeletal survey when CT with 3D reconstruction is going to be, or has been, performed.

Key Points

• Head CT with 3D reconstruction is more sensitive and specific for the diagnosis of skull fractures.

• Skull radiographs can be safely omitted from the initial skeletal survey performed for suspected physical abuse when head CT with 3D reconstruction is going to be, or has been, performed.
Fluid moment and force measurement based on control surface integration
Authors: Chin Diana D. , Lentink David
Published: December 2019

The moments and torques acting on a deforming body determine its stability and maneuverability. For animals, robots, vehicles, and other deforming objects locomoting in liquid or gaseous fluids, these fluid moments are challenging to accurately measure during unconstrained motion. Particle image velocimetry and aerodynamic force platforms have the potential to resolve this challenge through the use of control surface integration. These measurement techniques have previously been used to recover fluid forces. Here, we show how control surface integration can similarly be used to recover the 3D fluid moments generated about a deforming body’s center of mass. We first derive a general formulation that can be applied to any body locomoting in a fluid. We then show when and how this formulation can be greatly simplified without loss of accuracy for conditions commonly encountered during fluid experiments, such as for tests done in wind or water channels. Finally, we provide detailed formulations to show how measurements from an aerodynamic force platform can be used to determine the net instantaneous moments generated by a freely flying body. These formulations also apply more generally to other fluid applications, such as underwater swimming or locomotion over water surfaces.

Graphic abstract