bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Successful field performance in warm and dry environments of soybean expressing the sunflower transcription factor HB4
Authors: Ribichich Karina F , Chiozza Mariana , Ávalos-Britez Selva , Cabello Julieta V , Arce Augustin L , Watson Geronimo , Arias Claudia , Portapila Margarita , Trucco Federico , Otegui Maria E , Chan Raquel L
Published: February 2020

Soybean yield is limited primarily by abiotic constraints. No transgenic soybean with improved abiotic stress tolerance is commercially available. We transformed soybean plants with genetic constructs able to express the sunflower transcription factor HaHB4, which confers drought tolerance to Arabidopsis and wheat. One line (b10H) carrying the sunflower promoter was chosen among three independent lines because it exhibited the best performance in seed yield, and was evaluated in the greenhouse and in 27 field trials in different environments in Argentina. In greenhouse experiments, transgenic plants showed increased seed yield under stress conditions together with greater epicotyl diameter, larger xylem area, and increased water use efficiency compared with controls. They also exhibited enhanced seed yield in warm and dry field conditions. This response was accompanied by an increase in seed number that was not compensated by a decrease in individual seed weight. Transcriptome analysis of plants from a field trial with maximum difference in seed yield between genotypes indicated the induction of genes encoding redox and heat shock proteins in b10H. Collectively, our results indicate that soybeans transformed with HaHB4 are expected to have a reduced seed yield penalty when cultivated in warm and dry conditions, which constitute the best target environments for this technology.
Deducing Crystallization Sequence of Magmas from Spatial Distribution of Crystals in Rocks
Authors: Špillar Václav
Published: February 2020

The order of crystallization of minerals from melt is of prime importance for an understanding of magma fractionation and chemical differentiation from the magma chamber to the planetary scale. Determination of the crystallization sequence based on petrographic observations, however, is often ambiguous; especially in multiply saturated, nearly eutectic felsic melts. This paper presents a novel approach to estimate the order of crystallization of minerals in igneous systems based on a quantitative study of their spatial distributions. Statistical modelling of crystallization demonstrates that later crystallizing mineral phases are generally more clustered. A simple inversion model is then derived to calculate the crystallization sequence and the volume fraction of older minerals present in the system at the onset of crystallization of a later (younger) phase. Application of the model to a sample of equigranular granodiorite (Fichtelgebirge granite batholith, Germany) indicates that plagioclase was the first liquidus phase. It was followed by biotite, K-feldspar, and quartz at 41, 48, and 63 vol. % crystallized, respectively, which is in qualitative agreement with experimental phase equilibria results for moderately hydrous granitic melts. If phase equilibria for a given composition are known or assumed, the crystallization sequence thus constrains the intensive variables (e.g., water content) and their evolution during magma solidification. The model thus provides a novel and independent approach to reconstruct the magma crystallization path that would be inaccessible by other methods.
Sevoflurane and Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Tsai Sheng-Tzung , Tseng Guo-Fang , Kuo Chang-Chih , Chen Tsung-Ying , Chen Shin-Yuan
Published: February 2020

Background

General anesthetics-induced changes of electrical oscillations in the basal ganglia may render the identification of the stimulation targets difficult. The authors hypothesized that while sevoflurane anesthesia entrains coherent lower frequency oscillations, it does not affect the identification of the subthalamic nucleus and clinical outcome.

Methods

A cohort of 19 patients with Parkinson’s disease with comparable disability underwent placement of electrodes under either sevoflurane general anesthesia (n = 10) or local anesthesia (n = 9). Microelectrode recordings during targeting were compared for neuronal spiking characteristics and oscillatory dynamics. Clinical outcomes were compared at 5-yr follow-up.

Results

Under sevoflurane anesthesia, subbeta frequency oscillations predominated (general vs. local anesthesia, mean ± SD; delta: 13 ± 7.3% vs. 7.8 ± 4.8%; theta: 8.4 ± 4.1% vs. 3.9 ± 1.6%; alpha: 8.1 ± 4.1% vs. 4.8 ± 1.5%; all P < 0.001). In addition, distinct dorsolateral beta and ventromedial gamma oscillations were detected in the subthalamic nucleus solely in awake surgery (mean ± SD; dorsal vs. ventral beta band power: 20.5 ± 6.6% vs. 15.4 ± 4.3%; P < 0.001). Firing properties of subthalamic neurons did not show significant difference between groups. Clinical outcomes with regard to improvement in motor and psychiatric symptoms and adverse effects were comparable for both groups. Tract numbers of microelectrode recording, active contact coordinates, and stimulation parameters were also equivalent.

Conclusions

Sevoflurane general anesthesia decreased beta-frequency oscillations by inducing coherent lower frequency oscillations, comparable to the pattern seen in the scalp electroencephalogram. Nevertheless, sevoflurane-induced changes in electrical activity patterns did not reduce electrode placement accuracy and clinical effect. These observations suggest that microelectrode-guided deep brain stimulation under sevoflurane anesthesia is a feasible clinical option.

Editor’s Perspective

What We Already Know about This Topic

What This Article Tells Us That Is New
A Mixed-Method Study of Providing and Implementing a Support Model Focusing on Systematic Work Environment Management
Authors: Hellman Therese , Molin Fredrik , Svartengren Magnus
Published: February 2020

Aims:

To explore how a support model (Stamina) targeting the systematic work environment management was experienced, provided and implemented in Swedish municipalities.

Methods:

A mixed method approach was applied, including material from interviews and questionnaire. The questionnaire was answered by 123 persons (67.5%), and 18 participants were interviewed twice during a one year period. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and qualitative content analysis.

Results:

The participants followed the structure of the Stamina model in their practical work. Still, there was variation in the practical provision of the model. The implementation was supported by their organizations and was influenced by various actors. Creating commitment was an essential part to facilitate implementation.

Conclusion:

To promote implementation of the Stamina model, there is a need to create commitment among stakeholders that will participate in the implementation.
A concept analysis of nurse practitioner autonomy
Authors: Peacock Michelle , Hernandez Stephen
Published: February 2020

Background:

Nurse practitioner (NP) autonomy is often misunderstood and misconstrued. These misconceptions cause a confusing interplay of words that impedes advocating for policy change and ultimately hinders the profession.

Objective:

To develop a clear definition of NP autonomy to describe the professional role.

Data sources:

Walker and Avant's method of concept analysis was used to undertake a concept analysis of NP autonomy. The terms used to search for possible uses and definitions of NP autonomy in electronic databases included NP, autonomy, and concept analysis. In addition, the websites for nursing organizations, Google, Google Scholar, and the Merriam-Webster dictionary were searched and included in this analysis. This search yielded 29 articles, consisting of literature reviews, meta-synthesis, position papers, and qualitative and quantitative studies.

Conclusions:

Nurse practitioner autonomy should be defined as the NP's use of their experience, clinical judgment, and responsibility to practice without restriction in professional collaboration with other health care professionals. Autonomy allows NPs to practice to the maximum extent of their advanced education, participate in productive and voluntarily collaborations, and continue to positively influence health care discrepancies throughout the United States.

Implications for practice:

This concept analysis provides a clear definition of NP autonomy. In addition, it explains the difference between the concepts of NP autonomy and full practice authority. Clear definitions of the concepts of NP autonomy and full practice authority will be beneficial in advocating and advancing policy on behalf of NPs.
Dynamic balancing of the cleaning unit used in agricultural thresher using a non-dominated sorting Jaya algorithm
Authors: Singh Prem , Chaudhary Himanshu
Published: February 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to propose a dynamically balanced mechanism for cleaning unit used in agricultural thresher machine using a dynamically equivalent system of point masses.

Design/methodology/approach

The cleaning unit works on crank-rocker Grashof mechanism. This mechanism can be balanced by optimizing the inertial properties of each link. These properties are defined by the dynamic equivalent system of point masses. Parameters of these point masses define the shaking forces and moments. Hence, the multi-objective optimization problem with minimization of shaking forces and shaking moments is formulated by considering the point mass parameters as the design variables. The formulated optimization problem is solved using a posteriori approach-based algorithm i.e. the non-dominated sorting Jaya algorithm (NSJAYA) and a priori approach-based algorithms i.e. Jaya algorithm and genetic algorithm (GA) under suitable design constraints.

Findings

The mass, center of mass and inertias of each link are calculated using optimum design variables. These optimum parameters improve the dynamic performance of the cleaning unit. The optimal Pareto set for the balancing problem is measured and outlined in this paper. The designer can choose any solution from the set and balance any real planar mechanism.

Originality/value

The efficiency of the proposed approach is tested through the existing cleaning mechanism of the thresher machine. It is found that the NSJAYA is computationally more efficient than the GA and Jaya algorithm. ADAMS software is used for the simulation of the mechanism.
Traces left by Herbert Brün that orient my cybernetics (Maybe)
Authors: Lombardi Judith
Published: February 2020

Purpose

Herbert Brün was a composer of many things including electronic and computer music. His compositions were, by design, nested in his passions for designing a new society – without violence. In this article, the author attempts to address several of Brün’s concepts relevant to his desire for social change. This paper was stimulated by a panel discussion about Brün at the 2018 American Society for Cybernetics (ASC) conference “Framing a Reality and How It Matters in a Shared World.”

Design/methodology/approach

Herbert Brün nested his communication in what he labeled “anticommunication,” which requires a listener to generate new ways of listening. As a video ethnographer, the author had many opportunities to videotape Brün, beginning with our first encounter at the 1992 ASC Conference in Washington State. During the past several decades, the author has composed a variety of movies in which the video footage of Brün and others that the author associates with cybernetics is used. Excerpts from many of these movies are embedded in the links located in the references section of this paper.

Findings

Brün’s cybernetic formulations for designing social transformations explored in this paper include his ideas on floating hierarchies, anticommunication, his notions on a circularity of needs, peace as a need, articulating desires, composing as an element of daily life, and the retardation of decay.

Originality/value

It is the author’s desire that this paper encourages the reader to explore some of Herbert Brün’s formulations for designing social change and transformations.
Examining brand loyalty from an attachment theory perspective
Authors: Boateng Henry , Kosiba John Paul , Adam Diyawu Rahman , Ofori Kwame Simpe , Okoe Abednego Feehi
Published: February 2020

Purpose

This study aimed to ascertain the relationship between experiential value, brand attachment and brand loyalty. The authors employed the attachment theory as the theoretical framework and operationalised attachment as a two-dimensional construct: identity-based and bonding-based. The authors argue that experiential value reinforces customer attachment in these two perspectives of attachment and consequently determine brand loyalty.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used a survey research design and collected data from 500 customers of mobile telecommunication network companies in Ghana. The authors analysed the data collected using the partial least squares approach to structural equation modeling.

Findings

The findings of the study showed that there is a relationship between experiential value, brand attachment (identity-based and bonding-based) and brand loyalty. This study showed how experiential value reinforces each dimension of the attachment theory, and drives brand loyalty.

Originality/value

This study intensifies the application of attachment theory in the marketing literature. It provides insight into how brand loyalty is developed via attachment.
Bounded rationality, capital budgeting decisions and small business
Authors: Morales Burgos Jaime A. , Kittler Markus , Walsh Michael
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide insight into the capital budgeting decision-making of Canadian and Mexican entrepreneurs in small businesses in the food sector. The objective is to understand the capital budgeting decisions through the lens of bounded rationality and how these decisions are affected by different (national) contexts.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a comparative study in which the use of constructivist grounded theory allowed deep conversations about capital budgeting decisions. Data was collected from forty semi-structured interviews with entrepreneurs/managers in two regions, Mexico and Canada.

Findings

Insights from this study suggest that entrepreneurs’ capital budgeting decisions are not only taken under conditions of bounded rationality but also suggest a prominent role of context in how bounded rationality is applied differently towards investment decisions.

Research limitations/implications

While the findings cannot simply be generalized, exploring how capital budgeting decisions are made differently across two regional contexts adds to the understanding of the nexus of context, bounded rationality and capital budgeting decision-making.

Practical implications

Using a bounded rationality lens, this study contrasts and explains similarities and differences in the entrepreneur’s capital budgeting decision-making within small businesses. The insights add to the body of knowledge and help entrepreneurs to reflect on their approach to decision-making.

Originality/value

The paper uses a less commonly applied approach to understand two under-researched regional contexts. We use constructivist grounded theory to explore entrepreneurs’ capital budgeting decision-making in small businesses in two regions, Canada and Mexico. The comparative approach and the findings add to the understanding of decision-making, highlight the prominent role of context and also challenge some insights from previous research.
Is board diversity an antecedent of corporate social responsibility performance in firms? A research on the 500 biggest Turkish companies
Authors: Colakoglu Nese , Eryilmaz Mehmet , Martínez-Ferrero Jennifer
Published: February 2020

Purpose

This study aims to understand whether board diversity has a direct effect on “corporate social responsibility (CSR)” performance of companies or not. In addition, this study also aims to examine the moderation effect of age and education level of female board members on the relationship between board gender diversity and CSR performance.

Design/methodology/approach

A “corporate social performance (CSP)” measurement instrument was designed to conduct a content analysis that analyzes the CSR disclosure in the annual reports of Turkish companies listed on the “500 biggest Turkish companies” report of “Istanbul Chamber of Industry (ISO)” in 2015. The data coming from content analysis of 117 company reports were analyzed by using hierarchical regression analysis.

Findings

Despite of supporting the increase in CSR performance when there is a greater presence of independent board members in an organization, evidence supports that ratios of female and foreign board members do not have any significant effect on CSR performance.

Originality/value

The study contributes to previous literature on board diversity and CSR performance as follows. First, this paper contributes to previous literature by examining and testing independent, female and foreign board members as a new antecedent of CSR performance in research on Turkey; second, by examining a sample of the “500 biggest Turkish companies” and providing some tips about both Turkey and other developing countries; third, by reopening the debate about the positive impact of a greater presence of independent directors on board on CSR performance and the non-effect of female and foreign board members. Finally, it also offers a partially new CSP measurement instrument based on content analysis.
The INTERNET STUDY: A phase II study of everolimus in patients with fluorodeoxyglucose (18F) positron‐emission tomography positive intermediate grade pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors
Authors: Lung Mei Sim , Hicks Rodney J. , Pavlakis Nick , Link Emma , Jefford Michael , Thomson Benjamin , Wyld David K. , Liauw Winston , Akhurst Timothy , Kuru Narmatha , Michael Michael
Published: February 2020

Aims

This multicenter phase II trial evaluates the efficacy of everolimus in poor prognosis grade 2 (G2) pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PNETs), defined by 2‐[fluorine‐18]fluoro‐2‐deoxy‐d‐glucose (FDG) positron‐emission tomography (PET) avidity. FDG–PET avidity in NETs is associated with a significantly higher risk of death, outperforming Ki‐67 index or liver metastases as a poor prognostic factor. We hypothesized that everolimus has efficacy in patients with FDG–PET‐avid G2 PNETs and prospectively evaluated progression‐free survival (PFS) and response in the first‐line setting.

Methods

Patients with FDG–PET‐avid G2 advanced PNET received everolimus 10 mg daily until disease progression. Patients were staged every 12 weeks with CT/MRI and FDG–PET and every 24 weeks with Gallium 68 (68Ga) 1,4,7,10‐tetraazacyclododecane‐1,4,7,10‐tetraacetic acid (DOTA)–octreotate (DOTATATE, GaTate) PET. The primary endpoint was PFS at 6 months. Overall survival rate, PET/structural imaging response and toxicity were also measured.

Results

Nine patients were accrued from December 2012 to February 2015. Median treatment duration was 13.8 months. The estimated PFS rate at 6 months was 78%. The best response on CT/MRI was stable disease in nine patients (100%) and partial response on FDG–PET in five patients (55.5%). Treatment‐related adverse effects were consistent with previous studies of everolimus.

Conclusion

Everolimus is active with prolonged disease control in poor prognosis FDG‐avid G2 PNETs. Treatment individualization based on functional imaging warrants further evaluation.
Research Methodology and Community Participation: A Decade of Indigenous Social Science Research in Canada
Authors: Dion Michelle L. , Díaz Ríos Claudia , Leonard Kelsey , Gabel Chelsea
Published: February 2020

Those engaged in community‐based participatory research often comment on tensions between social scientific and community values, yet little systematic evidence exists about the relationship between social science research methodologies and community participation. We analyze nearly 500 peer‐reviewed articles published between 2005 and 2015 on Indigenous issues in Canada, where policies encourage participatory research methods with disempowered groups. We find that research that includes Indigenous participation is more likely to include Indigenous epistemologies and participatory evidence sources and analysis methods. We also find that peer‐reviewed research involving Indigenous participants often fails to go beyond minimum levels of consultation required by policies.
A computing method‐based rearrangement of network protocols to improvise quality factors of FACTS devices and sensors using Newton‐Raphson technique
Authors: Sundaravazhuthi V. , Alli Rani A. , Manoj Kumar M.
Published: February 2020

The load flow analysis project was carried out using the Newton‐Raphson's iteration technique and a multiobjective method was suggested to minimize power loss, increase bus voltage, reduce operating costs, and controlling the flexible AC transmission system (FACTS) controllers. The key focus is to improvise the load sustainability subjected to controlling of system safety, integrity, and stability margins within specified limits by acquiring optimum place, installation expenses for FACTS controllers. It is important to analyze the benefits and architect the FACTS devices for the power steady state analysis. For effective modeling, the five bus standard is analyzed without the FACTS end devices and with the FACTS controllers. Transient voltage is critical which requires accurate and quick response to avoid the voltage collapse and instability issues. The Newton‐Raphson's method of load flow analysis is an iterative method which approximates the set of nonlinear simultaneous load flow equations to a set of linear simultaneous load flow equations using Taylor's series expansion and the terms are limited to first order approximation. The variations in voltage are within 5% for a well designated power system. If it exceeds the specified limit then the performance of equipment will be poor and the life of equipment will reduce. Hence the voltage control is very important to improvise the quality factor of the FACTS controllers and devices in power system. The voltage variations in a bus or node are related to reactive power. If the reactive power is injected to a bus is less than reactive power drawn from the FACTS devices, the voltage instability becomes infinite issue causes damage to the controllers and devices. In a load flow problem, two quantities are specified for each bus and the remaining quantities are obtained by the load flow equation analysis using Newton‐Raphson method. This method has been tested for IEEE 30 bus system and then the values are compared and analyzed with MATLAB.
Quality indicators for a community‐based wound care centre: An integrative review
Authors: Seaton Philippa C. J. , Cant Robyn P. , Trip Henrietta T.
Published: February 2020

The purpose of this review was to identify the role and contribution of community‐based nurse‐led wound care as a service delivery model. Centres increasingly respond proactively to assess and manage wounds at all stages – not only chronic wound care. We conducted an integrative review of literature, searching five databases, 2007–2018. Based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, we systematically approached article selection and all three authors collaborated to chart the study variables, evaluate data, and synthesise results. Eighteen studies were included, representing a range of care models internationally. The findings showed a need for nurse‐led clinics to provide evidence‐based care using best practice guidelines for all wound types. Wound care practices should be standardised across the particular service and be integrated with higher levels of resources such as investigative services and surgical units. A multi‐disciplinary approach was likely to achieve better patient outcomes, while patient‐centred care with strong patient engagement was likely to assist patients' compliance with treatment. High‐quality community‐based wound services should include nursing leadership based on a hub‐and‐spoke model. This is ideally patient‐centred, evidence‐based, and underpinned by a commitment to developing innovations in terms of treatment modalities, accessibility, and patient engagement.
Maternal Antecedents to Adolescent Girls’ Neural Regulation of Emotion
Authors: Modi Haina H. , Davis Megan M. , Miernicki Michelle E. , Telzer Eva H. , Rudolph Karen D.
Published: February 2020

The purpose of this study was to investigate contributions of maternal emotional resources to individual differences in adolescents’ functional connectivity during emotion regulation. Participants included 35 adolescent girls who completed an implicit emotion regulation task during fMRI. Mothers reported on the quality of their adult attachment and emotional awareness when youth were in elementary school. Higher anxious attachment and lower emotional awareness were significantly correlated with more positive amygdala–right ventrolateral prefrontal cortex connectivity, a pattern linked in prior research with ineffective emotion regulation and emotional difficulties. Further, there was an indirect effect of anxious attachment on adolescent connectivity through emotional awareness. These results suggest that compromised maternal emotional resources in childhood may be linked to atypical neural processing of emotions.
Diverging Perceptions of Personal Moral Values and the Values of One's Religious Group
Authors: Clark Travis Daryl , Grove Richard C. , Terrell Heather K. , Swanson Casey
Published: February 2020

A popular notion in many religions is that less pious individuals are also less moral. We sought to test the self‐described moral values of religious and nonreligious individuals under the framework of Moral Foundations Theory. In Study 1, we found that atheists differ from Christians in some moral domains. We also found evidence that Christians’ self‐ratings are consistently lower than what they perceive to be the moral values of other Christians. This finding contradicts previous findings that suggest that Christians may inflate their positive characteristics relative to their peers in other domains. In Studies 2 and 3, we tested several alternative explanations for this finding. Preliminary evidence suggests that Christians rate their moral values lower in comparison to Christian exemplars such as religious leaders, and not from a sense of humility. In contrast, atheists may not have exemplars for such a comparison.
Sialographic analysis of parotid ductal abnormalities associated with Sjogren's syndrome
Authors: Foggia Megan J. , Peterson Joseph , Maley Joan , Policeni Bruno , Hoffman Henry T.
Published: February 2020

Objectives

To analyze the location and degree of parotid ductal abnormalities associated with Sjogren's syndrome (SS) and to correlate findings with the duration of the disease. To develop a classification system based on contemporary sialography techniques and employ the system to grade findings on sialograms. To assess the role for therapeutic intervention in patients with SS.

Methods

Retrospective chart review of a consecutive series of 337 sialograms done by the senior investigator over a 10‐year period identified 26 sialograms in patients who met the criteria for SS as defined by the American‐European Consensus Group (2002). A classification system was developed to grade the degree of ductal abnormalities identified on the sialograms. Individual, initial blinded review of these sialograms was performed by two head and neck radiologists to identify and grade abnormalities. Radiographic findings were correlated with patient history including symptom duration.

Results

All patients with SS had stenoses within the ductal system. About 73.1% of patients had stenoses in each branch of the ductal system (primary, secondary, and tertiary ducts). In 19% of patients, the main duct was of normal caliber despite the presence of stenosis in the more proximal ducts (secondary and tertiary ducts). Peripheral (proximal) duct dilation was characterized among those affected in patterns classified as destructive (34.6%), cavitary (26.9%), globular (11.5%), or punctate (11.5%). A statistically significant positive correlation (p = .0360) was identified between symptom duration and degree of main ductal stenosis.

Conclusion

Sialography may be useful to objectively assess the degree of parotid ductal damage in SS employing a newly proposed classification system. This assessment may assist clinicians in tailoring management to selectively include ductal dilation.
Family Planning and Child Health Care: Effect of the Peruvian Programa de Salud Reproductiva y Planificación Familiar, 1996–2000
Authors: Battaglia Marianna , Pallarés Nina
Published: February 2020

Our study estimates the effects of exposure to a family planning program which promoted surgical contraception for the first time in Peru on women's use of birth control methods and their children's health. While a broad program, the Programa de Salud Reproductiva y Planificación Familiar forced many indigenous women to undergo sterilization. We compare provinces affected by the program earlier with provinces affected later, before and after the policy. Overall, the results indicate that women in treated areas were more likely to use both temporary and permanent contraceptive methods and their children were less likely to die within their first year of life, partly due to longer breastfeeding. However, we observe heterogeneity by ethnicity. In treated provinces, nonindigenous children benefited from the policy regardless of their mothers’ choice of contraceptive method, while there were few positive impacts for indigenous children whose mothers underwent sterilization. This suggests that coercive or aggressively implemented family planning programs may not confer health benefits on children.
The factors associated with inappropriate prescription patterns of benzodiazepines and related drugs among patients with dementia
Authors: Tien Shin‐Chiao , Chan Hung‐Yu , Hsu Chun‐Chi
Published: February 2020

Background

It has been emphasised that benzodiazepines and related drugs (BZDRs) should be used cautiously in people with dementia. The aim of this study was to identify factors associated with inappropriate prescription patterns of BZDRs including polypharmacy, long‐term treatment and high doses among patients with dementia taking BZDRs.

Methods

This was a retrospective chart review study of patients with dementia who were treated at the study hospital. The date that the patient was issued a catastrophic illness certificate from the National Health Insurance Administration was used as the index date. Medical records of the 2‐year period after the index date were reviewed.

Results

A total of 308 patients with dementia were included in this study. Among them, 151 (49.0%) received at least one prescription of BZDRs. After adjusting for covariates, psychiatric comorbidities (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 4.74, 95% CI = 1.75–12.81), history of past suicidal behaviour (aOR = 4.25, 95% CI = 1.40–12.88) and long‐term treatment with BZDRs (aOR = 3.38, 95% CI = 1.11–10.27) were associated with polypharmacy of BZDRs. Age (aOR = 1.05, 95% CI = 1.0–1.11) and polypharmacy (aOR = 3.57, 95% CI = 1.23–10.32) were associated with long‐term treatment. Living with family (aOR = 3.33, 95% CI = 1.32–9.79) and fewer psychiatric admissions to the study hospital (aOR = 0.56, 95% CI = 0.36–0.86) were associated with treatment with high doses of BZDRs.

Conclusions

Treatment with BZDRs is prevalent in patients with dementia. Inappropriate prescription patterns of BZDRs are not uncommon in these patients and may be interlinked.
Structural insights into immunoglobulin M
Authors: Li Yaxin , Wang Guopeng , Li Ningning , Wang Yuxin , Zhu Qinyu , Chu Huarui , Wu Wenjun , Tan Ying , Yu Feng , Su Xiao-Dong , Gao Ning , Xiao Junyu
Published: February 2020

Hefty structures of IgA and IgM complexes

Immunoglobulin M (IgM) and IgA are antibody isotypes that can form higher-order secretory complexes (sIgM and sIgA), which allows them to effectively bind and neutralize antigens with low-affinity repetitive epitopes, such as those found on the surface of many bacteria and viruses. The assembly and transport of these molecules is also dependent on the joining chain (J-chain) and the polymeric immunoglobulin receptor (pIgR) secretory component (SC). The architecture of these complex, multimeric structures has remained elusive. Li
et al.
resolved cryo–electron microscopy structures of the sIgM-Fc pentamer in complex with the J-chain and SC. Using similar techniques, Kumar
et al.
visualized dimeric, tetrameric, and pentameric structures of secretory sIgA-Fc interacting with the J-chain and SC. Both groups report highly similar mechanisms wherein the J-chain serves as a template for antibody oligomerization. An unanticipated, amyloid-like assembly of the oligomerized structure is present in both cases, with the J-chain conferring asymmetry for pIgR binding and transcytosis. These studies may inform structure-based engineering of these molecules for future therapeutic purposes.

Science
, this issue p.
1014
, p.
1008
Na
+
-gated water-conducting nanochannels for boosting CO
2
conversion to liquid fuels
Authors: Li Huazheng , Qiu Chenglong , Ren Shoujie , Dong Qiaobei , Zhang Shenxiang , Zhou Fanglei , Liang Xinhua , Wang Jianguo , Li Shiguang , Yu Miao
Published: February 2020

Water-selective zeolite membranes

The yield of many gas-phase industrial reactions is limited by the formation of water as a by-product. Li
et al.
harnessed the water-sieving properties of NaA zeolite crystals by forming them into continuous defect-free membranes within tube reactors (see the Perspective by Carreon). These membranes can let water pass but reject gases such as hydrogen, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide (CO
2
). When these membranes were used in CO
2
hydrogenation to form methanol with water as a by-product, substantial increases were observed in both the CO
2
conversion and methanol yield.

Science
, this issue p.
667
; see also p.
624
Subthreshold laser therapy for macular oedema from branch retinal vein occlusion: focused review
Authors: Eng Victor Albert , Leng Theodore
Published: February 2020

Retinal vein occlusion is the second-leading cause of vision loss by retinal vascular disease. Subthreshold micropulse laser therapy (SLT) is safer than conventional laser photocoagulation (CLP), yet existing reviews of its use for branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) are limited in scope. A literature search of PubMed, Google Scholar, Embase, Cochrane Library and ClinicalTrials.gov databases was conducted in August 2019 without restriction on language or publication date. Outcomes included changes in macular oedema (ME) and visual acuity (VA), and rates of complications or retreatments. Fourteen studies involving 315–405 eyes diagnosed with BRVO were evaluated. Treatment with SLT is associated with significant and durable reduction of ME and VzA as early as 1 month. SLT performs comparably with conventional photocoagulation and intravitreal injections (IVIs) of ranibizumab. Subthreshold laser therapy is safer and as effective as CLP for the treatment of ME associated with BRVO. SLT may be used in combination with anti-VEGF IVIs to enhance improvement in VA and ME resolution.
Turning the wrongs into rights
Authors: Oxtoby Catherine
Published: February 2020

Mistakes in practice can really have a negative impact on wellbeing. An error can prey on the mind, turning supposed relaxation time into rumination time. Here, Catherine Oxtoby offers a method of dealing with errors in a more productive and healthier way.
Relativistic modeling of stellar objects using embedded class one spacetime continuum
Authors: Gedela Satyanarayana , Bisht Ravindra K. , Pant Neeraj
Published: February 2020

In this paper, we explore a family of exact solutions to the Einstein field equations (EFEs) describing a spherically symmetric, static distribution of fluid spheres with pressure anisotropy in the setting of embedding class one spacetime continuum. A detailed theoretical analysis of this class of solutions for compact stars PSR J16142230, Her X-1, LMC X-4 and 4U 1538-52 is carried out. The solutions are verified by examining various physical aspects, viz., anisotropy, gravitational redshift, causality condition, equilibrium (TOV-equation), stable static criterion and energy conditions, in connection to their cogency. Due to the well-behaved nature of the solutions for a large range of positive real [Formula: see text] values, we develop models of above stellar objects and discuss their behavior with graphical representations of the class of solutions of the first two objects extensively. The solutions studied by Fuloria [Astrophys. Space Sci. 362, 217 (2017)] for [Formula: see text] and Tamta and Fuloria [Mod. Phys. Lett. A 34, 2050001 (2019), https://doi.org/10.1142/S0217732320500017 ] for [Formula: see text] are particular cases of our generalized solution.
On Finding Large Sets of Rewards in Two-Player ETP–ESP Games
Authors: Joosten Reinoud , Samuel Llea
Published: February 2020

Games with endogenous transition probabilities and endogenous stage payoffs (or ETP–ESP games for short) are stochastic games in which both the transition probabilities and the payoffs at any stage are continuous functions of the relative frequencies of all past action combinations chosen.

We present methods to compute large sets of jointly-convergent pure-strategy rewards in two-player ETP–ESP games with communicating states under the limiting average reward criterion. Such sets are useful in determining feasible rewards in a game, and instrumental in obtaining the set of (Nash) equilibrium rewards.
An EPQ Model for Deteriorating Items With Imperfect Production, Two Types of Inspection Errors and Rework Under Complete Backordering
Authors: Rout Chayanika , Chakraborty Debjani , Goswami Adrijit
Published: February 2020

This paper presents an EPQ model which illustrates imperfect production and imperfect inspection processes for items that are subject to a constant rate of deterioration. The model considers two types of inspection errors, namely, Type I error of falsely screening out a proportion of nondefects, thereby passing them on for rework and Type II error of falsely not screening out a proportion of defects, thus selling those to customers which results in defect sales returns. The screened and returned items are then reworked and the proportion that could not be reworked successfully is scrapped. Shortages are allowed and are completely backlogged. Finally, we calculate the optimal production lot size and the optimal backordering quantity in order to minimize the total inventory cost per unit time. A numerical example is also considered to exemplify the obtained theoretical results which is followed by the complete sensitivity analysis of the involved parameters for even better managerial insights.
Approximating Generalized Network Design under (Dis)economies of Scale with Applications to Energy Efficiency
Authors: Emek Yuval , Kutten Shay , Lavi Ron , Shi Yangguang
Published: February 2020

In a
generalized network design (GND)
problem, a set of
resources
are assigned (non-exclusively) to multiple
requests
. Each request contributes its weight to the resources it uses and the total
load
on a resource is then translated to the cost it incurs via a resource-specific cost function. Motivated by
energy efficiency
applications, recently, there is a growing interest in GND using cost functions that exhibit
(dis)economies of scale ((D)oS)
, namely, cost functions that appear subadditive for small loads and superadditive for larger loads.

The current article advances the existing literature on approximation algorithms for GND problems with (D)oS cost functions in various aspects: (1) while the existing results are restricted to
routing
requests in undirected graphs, identifying the resources with the graph’s edges, the current article presents a generic
approximation framework
that yields approximation results for a much wider family of requests (including various types of
Steiner tree
and
Steiner forest
requests) in both directed and undirected graphs, where the resources can be identified with either the edges or the vertices; (2) while the existing results assume that a request contributes the same weight to each resource it uses, our approximation framework allows for
unrelated
weights, thus providing the first non-trivial approximation for the problem of
scheduling unrelated parallel machines
with (D)oS cost functions; (3) while most of the existing approximation algorithms are based on convex programming, our approximation framework is fully
combinatorial
and runs in strongly polynomial time; (4) the family of (D)oS cost functions considered in the current article is more general than the one considered in the existing literature, providing a more accurate abstraction for practical energy conservation scenarios; and (5) we obtain the first approximation ratio for GND with (D)oS cost functions that depends only on the parameters of the resources’ technology and does not grow with the number of resources, the number of requests, or their weights. The design of our approximation framework relies heavily on Roughgarden’s
smoothness
toolbox [43], thus demonstrating the possible usefulness of this toolbox in the area of approximation algorithms.
Single-Layer Obstacle-Aware Substrate Routing via Iterative Pin Reassignment and Wire Assignment
Authors: Yan Jin-Tai
Published: February 2020

It is known that single-layer obstacle-aware substrate routing is necessary for modern IC/Package designs. In this article, given a set of two-pin nets and a set of rectangular obstacles inside a single-layer routing plane, a two-phase routing algorithm including an iterative routing phase and a rip-up-and-reroute phase can be proposed to maximize the number of the routed nets in single-layer obstacle-aware substrate routing. In the iterative routing phase, based on the pin and path distribution of the routing nets and the locations of the obstacles inside a single-layer routing plane, the start or target pins on some routing nets inside dense obstacle regions may be firstly reassigned to complete the partial wiring paths on the nets. Based on the region extraction of two intersected nets in single-layer routing, the private regions of some routing nets inside sparse obstacle regions can be extracted and the nets inside the extracted regions can be further routed by using maze routing. In the rip-up-and-reroute phase, the routability of the routing nets can be improved by ripping up some routed nets and rerouting the unrouted nets. Compared with Liu's modified algorithm and Yan's flow-based algorithm in single-layer obstacle-aware substrate routing, the experimental results show that the proposed algorithm can use less CPU time to increase 3.4% and 1.8% of the routability on the routing nets for eight tested examples on the average. Additionally, the percentage of the tested examples with the 100% routability of the routing nets on the eight tested examples has been improved from 25% to 62.5%.
Exponential Disruptive Technologies and the Required Skills of Industry 4.0
Authors: Bongomin Ocident , Gilibrays Ocen Gilbert , Oyondi Nganyi Eric , Musinguzi Alex , Omara Timothy
Published: February 2020

The 21st century has witnessed precipitous changes spanning from the way of life to the technologies that emerged. We have entered a nascent paradigm shift (industry 4.0) where science fictions have become science facts, and technology fusion is the main driver. Thus, ensuring that any advancement in technology reach and benefit all is the ideal opportunity for everyone. In this study, disruptive technologies of industry 4.0 were explored and quantified in terms of the number of their appearances in published literature. The study aimed at identifying industry 4.0 key technologies which have been ill-defined by previous researchers and to enumerate the required skills of industry 4.0. Comprehensive literature survey covering the field of engineering, production, and management was done in multidisciplinary databases: Google Scholar, Science Direct, Scopus, Sage, Taylor & Francis, and Emerald Insight. From the electronic survey, 35 disruptive technologies were quantified and 13 key technologies: Internet of Things, Big Data, 3D printing, Cloud computing, Autonomous robots, Virtual and Augmented reality, Cyber-physical system, Artificial intelligence, Smart sensors, Simulation, Nanotechnology, Drones, and Biotechnology were identified. Both technical and personal skills to be imparted into the human workforce for industry 4.0 were reported. The review identified the need to investigate the capability and the readiness of developing countries in adapting industry 4.0 in terms of the changes in the education systems and industrial manufacturing settings. This study proposes the need to address the integration of industry 4.0 concepts into the current education system.
Cochlear Implantation in Patients with Chronic Suppurative Otitis Media: Surgical Outcomes and a Management Algorithm
Authors: Yoon Young Hoon , Lee Jong Bin , Chung Jee-Hye , Park Ki Wan , Kim Bong Jik , Choi Jin Woong
Published: February 2020

Background: Chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM) was considered as a contraindication of cochlear implantation (CI) in the past. Recently, various surgical options have been adopted for CI in CSOM patients with showing a low complication rate. Objectives: To evaluate surgical outcomes of CI in patients with CSOM and to propose a management algorithm for those patients. Methods: Thirty-six consecutive patients with CSOM who underwent single stage or staged CI were enrolled. Speech performance, including Categories of Auditory Performance (CAP) test and sentence score, and complications were retrospectively analyzed. Results: The average follow-up was 3.1 years (range 0.5–9.2 years). Postoperative median CAP and sentence scores were 6 and 78%, respectively. Three (8.3%) of the 36 patients had postoperative complications. One experienced breakdown of the ear canal closure. Recurrence of the pars tensa retraction was observed in another patient with adhesive otitis media who underwent CI and cartilage tympanoplasty as a single stage operation. Electrode extrusion occurred in another patient who underwent staged CI with maintenance of a previous open cavity. Subtotal petrosectomy and cavity obliteration were used to manage the latter 2 complications. All implant patients with good mastoid pneumatization exhibited no complications. There were no significant differences in postoperative speech performance and complication rates between single stage CI and staged CI. Based on these current findings, a management algorithm was proposed according to type of CSOM, presence of open cavity, and mastoid pneumatization. Conclusions: Patients with CSOM show good postoperative speech performance after CI. Proper surgical options according to type of CSOM, presence of open cavity, and mastoid pneumatization may help in reducing complications.
The Puzzle of Moral Memory
Authors: Cowan Robert
Published: February 2020

A largely overlooked and puzzling feature of morality is Moral Memory: apparent cases of directly memorising, remembering, and forgetting first-order moral propositions seem odd. To illustrate: consider someone apparently memorising that capital punishment is wrong, or acting as if they are remembering that euthanasia is permissible, or reporting that they have forgotten that torture is wrong. I here clarify Moral Memory and identify desiderata of good explanations. I then proceed to amend the only extant account, Bugeja’s (2016) Non-Cognitivist explanation, but show that it isn’t superior to a similar Cognitivist-friendly view, and that both explanations face a counterexample. Following this, I consider and reject a series of alternative Cognitivist-friendly explanations, suggesting that a Practicality-Character explanation that appeals to the connection between the practicality of moral attitude and character is superior. However, I conclude that support for this explanation should remain conditional and tentative.