bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quasistable charginos in ultraperipheral proton-proton collisions at the LHC
Authors: Godunov S. I. , Novikov V. A. , Rozanov A. N. , Vysotsky M. I. , Zhemchugov E.V.
Published: January 2020

Abstract

We propose a model-independent approach for the search of charged long-lived particles produced in ultraperipheral collisions at the LHC. The main idea is to improve event reconstruction at ATLAS and CMS with the help of their forward detectors. Detection of both scattered protons in forward detectors allows complete recovery of event kinematics. Though this requirement reduces the number of events, it greatly suppresses the background, including the large background from the pile-up.
The current status of fine-tuning in supersymmetry
Authors: van Beekveld Melissa , Caron Sascha , de Austri Roberto Ruiz
Published: January 2020

Abstract

In this paper, we minimize and compare two different fine-tuning measures in four high-scale supersymmetric models that are embedded in the MSSM. In addition, we determine the impact of current and future dark matter direct detection and collider experiments on the fine-tuning. We then compare the low-scale electroweak measure with the high-scale Barbieri-Giudice measure. We find that they reduce to the same value when the higgsino parameter drives the degree of fine-tuning. We also find spectra where the high-scale measure turns out to be lower than the low-scale measure. Depending on the high-scale model and fine-tuning definition, we find a minimal fine-tuning of 3–38 (corresponding to O(10–1)%) for the low-scale measure, and 63–571 (corresponding to O(1–0.1)%) for the high-scale measure. We stress that it is too early to conclude on the fate of supersymmetry, based only on the fine-tuning paradigm.
Exome sequencing of bulked segregants identified a novel TaMKK3-A allele linked to the wheat ERA8 ABA-hypersensitive germination phenotype
Authors: Martinez Shantel A. , Shorinola Oluwayesi , Conselman Samantha , See Deven , Skinner Daniel Z. , Uauy Cristobal , Steber Camille M.
Published: January 2020

Key message

Using bulked segregant analysis of exome sequence, we fine-mapped the ABA-hypersensitive mutant ERA8 in a wheat backcross population to the TaMKK3-A locus of chromosome 4A.

Preharvest sprouting (PHS) is the germination of mature grain on the mother plant when it rains before harvest. The ENHANCED RESPONSE TO ABA8 (ERA8) mutant increases seed dormancy and, consequently, PHS tolerance in soft white wheat ‘Zak.’ ERA8 was mapped to chromosome 4A in a Zak/‘ZakERA8’ backcross population using bulked segregant analysis of exome sequenced DNA (BSA-exome-seq). ERA8 was fine-mapped relative to mutagen-induced SNPs to a 4.6 Mb region containing 70 genes. In the backcross population, the ERA8 ABA-hypersensitive phenotype was strongly linked to a missense mutation in TaMKK3-A-G1093A (LOD 16.5), a gene associated with natural PHS tolerance in barley and wheat. The map position of ERA8 was confirmed in an ‘Otis’/ZakERA8 but not in a ‘Louise’/ZakERA8 mapping population. This is likely because Otis carries the same natural PHS susceptible MKK3-A-A660S allele as Zak, whereas Louise carries the PHS-tolerant MKK3-A-C660R allele. Thus, the variation for grain dormancy and PHS tolerance in the Louise/ZakERA8 population likely resulted from segregation of other loci rather than segregation for PHS tolerance at the MKK3 locus. This inadvertent complementation test suggests that the MKK3-A-G1093A mutation causes the ERA8 phenotype. Moreover, MKK3 was a known ABA signaling gene in the 70-gene 4.6 Mb ERA8 interval. None of these 70 genes showed the differential regulation in wild-type Zak versus ERA8 expected of a promoter mutation. Thus, the working model is that the ERA8 phenotype results from the MKK3-A-G1093A mutation.
Sample preparation of formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue sections for MALDI-mass spectrometry imaging
Authors: Hermann Juliane , Noels Heidi , Theelen Wendy , Lellig Michaela , Orth-Alampour Setareh , Boor Peter , Jankowski Vera , Jankowski Joachim
Published: January 2020

Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI MSI) has become a powerful tool with a high potential relevance for the analysis of biomolecules in tissue samples in the context of diseases like cancer and cardiovascular or cardiorenal diseases. In recent years, significant progress has been made in the technology of MALDI MSI. However, a more systematic optimization of sample preparation would likely achieve an increase in the molecular information derived from MALDI MSI. Therefore, we have employed a systematic approach to develop, establish and validate an optimized “standard operating protocol” (SOP) for sample preparation in MALDI MSI of formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue sample analyses within this study. The optimized parameters regarding the impact on the resulting signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio were as follows: (i) trypsin concentration, solvents, deposition method, and incubation time; (ii) tissue washing procedures and drying processes; and (iii) spray flow rate, number of layers of trypsin deposition, and grid size. The protocol was evaluated on interday variability and its applicability for analyzing the mouse kidney, aorta, and heart FFPE tissue samples. In conclusion, an optimized SOP for MALDI MSI of FFPE tissue sections was developed to generate high sensitivity, to enhance spatial resolution and reproducibility, and to increase its applicability for various tissue types. This optimized SOP will further increase the molecular information content and intensify the use of MSI in future basic research and diagnostic applications.
Correction to: Incidence and Risk Factors for Severity of Postoperative Ileus After Colorectal Surgery: A Prospective Registry Data Analysis
Authors: Venara A. , Meillat H. , Cotte E. , Ouaissi M. , Duchalais E. , Mor‐Martinez C. , Wolthuis A. , Regimbeau J. M. , Ostermann S. , Hamel J. F. , Joris J. , Slim K. ,   the GRACE Collaborative Group For Ileus Study, Chapuis O , Guignard B , Saint Denis M , Sirieix D , Arimont JM , Figuet S , Milou F , Hail K , Kothonidis K , Faucheron JL , Sage PY , Mauvais F , Rio D , Guiot JL , Poincenot J , Cuellar E , Luyer M , Smeets BJ , Aumont O , Dupre A , Poiblanc M , Sens N , Brigand C , Steinmetz JP , Plumereau F , Mathonnet M , Christou N , Ortega‐Deballon P , Vauclair E , Bozio G , Fernoux P , Massard JL , Bellouard A , de la Fontaine C , Finianos A , Michaud P , Bossard AE , Denet C , Grigoriu M , Kattou F , Gignoux B , Verrier JF , Raspado O , Arnalsteen L , Lamblin A , Dolbeau JB , Auvray S , Lammens S , Leporrier J , Sirisier F , Dileon S
Published: January 2020

In the list of participating investigators that appears in Acknowledgements, one of the investigators names appears incorrectly.
The past, present, and future status of multimodality treatment for resectable/borderline resectable pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Sakaguchi Tatsuma , Satoi Sohei , Yamamoto Tomohisa , Yamaki So , Sekimoto Mitsugu
Published: January 2020

A multimodal approach to treating pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is now widely accepted. Improvements in radiological assessment have enabled us to define resectability in detail. Multimodality treatment is essential for patients, especially for those with PDAC in the borderline resectable (BR) stage. Even for disease in a resectable (R) stage, adjuvant and neoadjuvant therapies have demonstrated beneficial outcomes in several trials and analyses. Thus, there is growing interest in optimization of the perioperative therapeutic strategy. We discuss the transition of resectability criteria and the global standard of adjuvant and neoadjuvant treatments for patients with R/BR-PDAC.
Clinical pathways of epileptic seizures and status epilepticus: results from a survey in Italy
Authors: Zaccara Gaetano , Citerio Giuseppe , Del Gaudio Alfredo , Ferlisi Monica , Pugliese Francesco Rocco , Toni Danilo
Published: January 2020

Objective

Patients with seizures or status epilepticus (SE) access the hospital through emergency departments and may be admitted into different wards according to the level of care required. Clinicians with different expertise are in charge of taking critical therapeutic decisions. To date, very few studies have investigated the stage at which these patients are referred to neurologists or epileptologists and how guideline recommendations are applied in clinical practice.

Methods

A survey was used to investigate how patients with epileptic seizures or SE are managed in emergency and in subsequent hospital pathways in Italy.

Results

One hundred and seventy-seven physicians (mainly neurologists) from all parts of Italy filled in a questionnaire. Less than half of the participants (35%) answered that, in their hospital, patients with epilepsy were managed by epileptologists. The percentages were lower for patients presenting with acute seizures (21%) or SE (16%). Diagnostic, therapeutic, and assistance pathways (PDTA) for patients presenting with seizure(s) or SE were available for both conditions in about 50% of cases, while, in the rest of the hospitals, participants indicated informal agreements (about 25% of cases) or lack of any agreement (about 25% of cases) between clinicians. Professionals more often involved in PDTA were epileptologists/neurologists, emergency physicians, and intensivists. More than half ot the participants (55%) thought that organizational issues are the most important criticalities for such patients and need to be improved (61%).

Significance

There is a high variability in hospital clinical pathways for epilepsy in Italy.
Consensus statement of the Italian society of colorectal surgery (SICCR): management and treatment of hemorrhoidal disease
Authors: Gallo G. , Martellucci J. , Sturiale A. , Clerico G. , Milito G. , Marino F. , Cocorullo G. , Giordano P. , Mistrangelo M. , Trompetto M.
Published: January 2020

Hemorrhoidal disease (HD) is the most common proctological disease in the Western countries. However, its real prevalence is underestimated due to the frequent self-medication.

The aim of this consensus statement is to provide evidence-based data to allow an individualized and appropriate management and treatment of HD. The strategy used to search for evidence was based on application of electronic sources such as MEDLINE, PubMed, Cochrane Review Library, CINAHL, and EMBASE.

These guidelines are inclusive and not prescriptive.

The recommendations were defined and graded based on the current levels of evidence and in accordance with the criteria adopted by American College of Chest Physicians. The recommendations were graded A, B, and C.
Adolf Lorenz und Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk – eine außergewöhnliche Begegnung
Authors: Holzer Gerold , Kokešová Helena
Published: January 2020

Adolf Lorenz, der Begründer der Orthopädie in Österreich und Vater des späteren Nobelpreisträgers Konrad Lorenz, und der Gründer und erste Präsident der tschechoslowakischen Republik, Tomáš G. Masaryk, standen in Kontakt miteinander. In den siebziger und achtziger Jahren des 19. Jahrhunderts studierten beide an der Universität Wien: der um vier Jahre ältere Masaryk Philosophie und Lorenz Medizin. Die ersten Treffen fanden im Seziersaal des Anatomischen Institutes statt. Ihnen beiden gelangen (wissenschaftliche) Karrieren und sie wurden prominente Persönlichkeiten. Fast 40 Jahre nach der ersten zufälligen Begegnung erinnerte sich Lorenz an seinen ehemaligen Schüler, inzwischen Präsident der tschechoslowakischen Republik, und nahm mit ihm Briefkontakt auf. Die im Masaryk-Institut in Prag aufbewahrte Korrespondenz soll hier vorgestellt werden.
Bi-objective load balancing multiple allocation hub location: a compromise programming approach
Authors: Monemi Rahimeh Neamatian , Gelareh Shahin , Nagih Anass , Jones Dylan
Published: January 2020

In this paper we address unbalanced spatial distribution of hub-level flows in an optimal hub-and-spoke network structure of median-type models. Our study is based on a rather general variant of the multiple allocation hub location problems with fixed setup costs for hub nodes and hub edges in both capacitated and uncapacitated variants wherein the number of hub nodes traversed along origin-destination pairs is not constrained to one or two as in the classical models.. From the perspective of an infrastructure owner, we want to make sure that there exists a choice of design for the hub-level sub-network (hubs and hub edges) that considers both objectives of minimizing cost of transportation and balancing spatial distribution of flow across the hub-level network. We propose a bi-objective (transportation cost and hub-level flow variance) mixed integer non-linear programming formulation and handle the bi-objective model via a compromise programming framework. We exploit the structure of the problem and propose a second-order conic reformulation of the model along with a very efficient matheuristics algorithm for larger size instances.
Faster horn diagnosis - a performance comparison of abductive reasoning algorithms
Authors: Koitz-Hristov Roxane , Wotawa Franz
Published: January 2020

Abductive inference derives explanations for encountered anomalies and thus embodies a natural approach for diagnostic reasoning. Yet its computational complexity, which is inherent to the expressiveness of the underlying theory, remains a disadvantage. Even when restricting the representation to Horn formulae the problem is NP-complete. Hence, finding procedures that can efficiently solve abductive diagnosis problems is of particular interest from a research as well as practical point of view. In this paper, we aim at providing guidance on choosing an algorithm or tool when confronted with the issue of computing explanations in propositional logic-based abduction. Our focus lies on Horn representations, which provide a suitable language to describe most diagnostic scenarios. We illustrate abduction via two contrasting problem formulations: direct proof methods and conflict-driven techniques. While the former is based on determining logical consequences, the later searches for suitable refutations involving possible causes. To reveal runtime performance trends we conducted a case study, in which we compared publicly available general purpose tools, established Horn reasoning engines, as well as new variations of known methods as a means for abduction.
High risk of breast cancer in women with biallelic pathogenic variants in CHEK2
Authors: Rainville Irene , Hatcher Shanell , Rosenthal Eric , Larson Katie , Bernhisel Ryan , Meek Stephanie , Gorringe Heidi , Mundt Erin , Manley Susan
Published: January 2020

Purpose

Compared to breast cancer risk genes such as BRCA2, ATM, PALB2, and NBN, no defined phenotype is currently associated with biallelic pathogenic variants (PVs) in CHEK2. This study compared the prevalence of breast and other cancers in women with monoallelic and biallelic CHEK2 PVs.

Methods

CHEK2 PV carriers were identified through commercial hereditary cancer panel testing (09/2013–07/2019). We compared cancer histories of 6473 monoallelic carriers to 31 biallelic carriers. Breast cancer risks were estimated using multivariate logistic regression and are reported as odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Results

Breast cancer frequency was higher among biallelic CHEK2 PV carriers (80.6%, 25/31) than monoallelic carriers (41.2%, 2668/6473; p < 0.0001). Biallelic carriers were more likely to be diagnosed at or before age 50 (61.3%, 19/31) and to have a second breast cancer diagnosis (22.6%, 7/31) compared to monoallelic carriers (23.9%, 1548/6473; p < 0.0001 and 8.1%, 523/6473; p = 0.0107, respectively). Proportionally more biallelic carriers also had any cancer diagnosis and > 1 primary diagnosis. Compared to women with no PVs, biallelic PV carriers had a higher risk of developing ductal invasive breast cancer (OR 8.69, 95% CI 3.69–20.47) and ductal carcinoma in situ (OR 4.98, 95% CI 2.00–12.35) than monoallelic carriers (OR 2.02, 95% CI 1.90–2.15 and OR 1.82, 95% CI 1.66–2.00, respectively).

Conclusions

These data suggest that biallelic CHEK2 PV carriers have a higher risk for breast cancer, are more likely to be diagnosed younger, and to have multiple primary breast cancers compared to monoallelic carriers. Biallelic carriers also appear to have a higher risk of cancer overall. Therefore, more aggressive management may be appropriate for women with biallelic PVs in CHEK2 compared with current recommendations for monoallelic carriers.
A Cognitive Model of Pathological Worry in Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review
Authors: Songco Annabel , Hudson Jennifer L. , Fox Elaine
Published: January 2020

Worry is common in children and adolescents, yet some youth experience excessive worries that persist over time and cause significant distress. Whilst the literature on worry and generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) in adults is well established, relatively less is known about the cognitive mechanisms underlying child and adolescent worry. An influential cognitive model of adult pathological worry (Hirsch and Matthews in Behav Res Therapy 50:636–646, 10.1016/j.brat.2012.06.007, 2012) proposes that negative information-processing biases, reduced executive functions, and verbal worry are critical in the aetiology of GAD in adults. The current systematic review investigated whether this cognitive model of worry could be extended to understand child and adolescent worry. Following a systematic search of the literature and screening for eligibility, 30 studies were identified. Evidence indicates that negative information-processing biases and reduced executive functions play an important role in worry and GAD in children and adolescents. However, evidence that children and adolescents experience verbal worry is inconclusive. Building upon Hirsch and Matthews' cognitive model (Behav Res Therapy 50:636–646, 10.1016/j.brat.2012.06.007, 2012), we propose a model of child and adolescent worry to provide a guiding framework for future research. We conclude that cognitive models of worry should incorporate a developmental framework in order to provide greater insight into the mechanisms uniquely associated with worry in children and adolescents and help to identify the cognitive processes to target for early interventions and treatments.
Abortion in Italy: Forty Years On
Authors: Caruso Elena
Published: January 2020

This comment considers the Italian Law 194 on abortion forty years after its approval in 1978 and it focuses on how its meaning has emerged as a result of its interpretation and application over that forty-year period.
Regarding ‘Leibniz Equivalence’
Authors: Roberts Bryan W.
Published: January 2020

Leibniz Equivalence is a principle of applied mathematics that is widely assumed in both general relativity textbooks and in the philosophical literature on Einstein’s hole argument. In this article, I clarify an ambiguity in the statement of this Leibniz Equivalence, and argue that the relevant expression of it for the hole argument is strictly false. I then show that the hole argument still succeeds as a refutation of manifold substantivalism; however, recent proposals that the hole argument is undermined by principles of representational equivalence do not fare so well.
Epistemological and ethical understandings of access and allocation in Earth System Governance: a 10-year review of the literature
Authors: Kalfagianni Agni , Meisch Simon
Published: January 2020

“Access and allocation” is one of the five analytical problems identified as key for analysing earth system governance in the first Earth System Governance Science and Implementation Plan officially published in 2009. Ten years later and with a new Science and Implementation Plan in place, it is time to take stock. Therefore, this paper addresses the question: What does a decadal review of the Earth System Governance literature tell us about how to conceptualize and define access and allocation, what ethical norms and epistemologies underlie access and allocation research, and what does Earth System Governance scholarship reveal about the interplay between access and allocation and other norms? We find that: (a) there is a relatively small body of the Earth System Governance literature on access and allocation, albeit growing; (b) this literature is largely empirical and dispersed across a variety of topics; and (c) there is a diversity of ethical norms and principles emphasized in Earth System Governance scholarship, but the dynamics between different forms of access and related implications for allocation are relatively underexplored. In light of these findings and with a new Earth System Governance Science and Implementation Plan in place, this paper highlights key areas for further research and development.
Evaluation of the effect of the elective blastocyst-stage embryo transfer and freezing strategy on the abandonment of frozen embryos under the Taiwan National Assisted Reproduction Act
Authors: Lan Kuo-Chung , Tseng Ya-Jung , Su Yi-Ru , Lin Tzu-Yu , Lin Yi-Chi
Published: January 2020

Purpose

To evaluate the relationship between elective blastocyst transfer, freezing strategy, and the abandonment of frozen embryos with a storage time limit of 10 years as specified in the National Assisted Reproduction Act of Taiwan.

Methods

This two-phase retrospective cohort study was conducted at a single tertiary center, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital (KCGMH), in 2019. Participants were selected from a data registry containing 4167 fresh IVF cycles, including phase 1 cycles from 1999 to 2009 and phase 2 cycles from 2010 to 2014, at KCGMH.

Results

In phase 1, embryo abandonment was associated with the production of more mature oocytes and embryos, the freezing of more embryos, young female age, blastocyst transfer, and positive pregnancy results. After adjustment for confounding factors, only positive pregnancy results (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 4.38, 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.17, 6.04), the freezing of ≥ 2 embryos (aOR 3.68, 95% CI 3.10, 4.38), the production of ≥ 6 embryos (aOR 1.68, 95% CI 1.03, 2.73), and the use blastocyst transfer (aOR 2.46, 95% CI 1.64, 3.69) remained significantly associated with embryo abandonment. The factors associated with embryo abandonment or possible abandonment were similar in phase 2.

Conclusion

For elective blastocyst stage transfer and a freezing strategy performed according to the Taiwan National Assisted Reproduction Act, a young female age ≤ 35 with positive pregnancy status due to the original IVF treatment, the production of ≥ 6 embryos, and the cryopreservation of ≥ 2 blastocysts may increase the likelihood of abandoning embryos in the future.
A Dilemma for Privacy as Control
Authors: Lundgren Björn
Published: January 2020

Although popular, control accounts of privacy suffer from various counterexamples. In this article, it is argued that two such counterexamples—while individually resolvable—can be combined to yield a dilemma for control accounts of privacy. Furthermore, it is argued that it is implausible that control accounts of privacy can defend against this dilemma. Thus, it is concluded that we ought not define privacy in terms of control. Lastly, it is argued that since the concept of privacy is the object of the right to privacy if the former cannot be defined in terms of control, neither can the latter.
Ailing Hearts and Troubled Minds: An Historical and Narratological Study on Illness Narratives by Physicians with Cardiac Disease
Authors: Wistrand Jonatan
Published: January 2020

A number of studies show that when doctors become ill, there is often ambiguity in the division of roles and responsibilities in the medical encounter. Yet little is known about how the dilemma of the sick doctor has changed over time. This article explores the experience of illness among physicians by applying an historical, narratological approach to three doctor’s narratives about personal cases of cardiac disease: Max Pinner’s from the 1940s, Robert Seaver’s from the 1980s, and John Mulligan’s from 2015. Drawing on Erving Goffman’s principles of social interaction, I argue that part of the challenge in the analysed narratives is because when doctors seek medical attention for themselves, the ensuing medical ‘drama’ suffers. I compare the three narratives to argue that the experience of becoming a patient while simultaneously remaining a doctor is a challenge that has changed over time. In Pinner’s narrative, the patient identity is both undesirable and inaccessible; in Seaver’s, role ambivalence between doctor and patient is the most salient feature; for Mulligan, his personal rather than professional experience of illness is the overarching theme of the narrative. Finally, I suggest that an awareness of how the medical drama often changes when doctors are patients might prove beneficial both for the doctor-patients and providers of medical care.
Field-Theoretic Thermodynamic Uncertainty Relation
Authors: Niggemann Oliver , Seifert Udo
Published: January 2020

We propose a field-theoretic thermodynamic uncertainty relation as an extension of the one derived so far for a Markovian dynamics on a discrete set of states and for overdamped Langevin equations. We first formulate a framework which describes quantities like current, entropy production and diffusivity in the case of a generic field theory. We will then apply this general setting to the one-dimensional Kardar–Parisi–Zhang equation, a paradigmatic example of a non-linear field-theoretic Langevin equation. In particular, we will treat the dimensionless Kardar–Parisi–Zhang equation with an effective coupling parameter measuring the strength of the non-linearity. It will be shown that a field-theoretic thermodynamic uncertainty relation holds up to second order in a perturbation expansion with respect to a small effective coupling constant. The calculations show that the field-theoretic variant of the thermodynamic uncertainty relation is not saturated for the case of the Kardar-Parisi-Zhang equation due to an excess term stemming from its non-linearity.
Denn as a highlighting-sensitive particle
Authors: Theiler Nadine
Published: January 2020

This paper develops an account of the German discourse particle denn that captures the meaning contribution of this particle in polar questions, wh-questions, and certain conditional antecedents in a unified way. It is shown that the behavior of denn exhibits an asymmetry between polar and wh-interrogatives, which can be captured by treating the particle as sensitive to the property highlighted by its containing clause, in the sense of Roelofsen and Farkas (Language 91(2):359–414, 2015). In addition, the paper argues that highlighting-sensitivity should be incorporated in the account of another discourse particle, German überhaupt, and discusses how the proposed account of discourse particle denn may be extended to also cover the use of denn as a causal conjunction.
Model-based vibration control for optical lenses
Authors: Störkle Johannes , Eberhard Peter
Published: January 2020

This work presents a contribution to the active image stabilization of optical systems, involving model development, control design, and the hardware setup. A laboratory experiment is built, which demonstrates the vibration sensitivity of a mechanical-optical system. In order to stabilize the undesired image motion actively, a model-based compensation of the image vibration is developed, realized and tested. Beside a linear actuator motion system, a force sensor system and a position sensor system are introduced and analyzed. In particular, various low-cost hardware components of the Arduino platform are used, which support the deployment of the controller software based on Matlab-Simulink. The remaining image motion is measured with a high-speed vision sensor system and the performance of the overall system is assessed.
The effects of traffic noise on tadpole behavior and development
Authors: Castaneda Erica , Leavings Vernell R. , Noss Reed F. , Grace Molly K.
Published: January 2020

Traffic noise is known to negatively affect many wildlife species by interfering with foraging behavior. Frogs often lay their eggs in roadside ditches because they are predator-free, but it is possible that traffic noise could reduce the survival and fitness of tadpoles, creating an ecological trap. In a series of lab experiments, we tested whether traffic noise has a negative impact on tadpole feeding behavior, whether this is mediated by changes in tadpole activity, and whether there is any impact on tadpole growth rate or metamorphosis. Traffic noise exposure significantly reduced the amount of food consumed by Cuban Treefrog (Osteopilus septentrionalis) tadpoles. Traffic noise exposure also increased the activity level of both Southern Toad (Anaxyrus terrestris) and Cuban Treefrog tadpoles, which could possibly make them more noticeable to predators in the wild. However, these behavioral changes were not associated with changes in growth rate or timing of metamorphosis. We caution, however, that this study aimed to isolate the specific impact of traffic noise, and did not investigate other road effects that may be damaging to tadpoles.
Preclinical Evaluation and Dosimetry of [111In]CHX-DTPA-scFv78-Fc Targeting Endosialin/Tumor Endothelial Marker 1 (TEM1)
Authors: Cicone Francesco , Denoël Thibaut , Gnesin Silvano , Riggi Nicolo , Irving Melita , Jakka Gopinadh , Schaefer Niklaus , Viertl David , Coukos George , Prior John O.
Published: January 2020

Purpose

Endosialin/tumor endothelial marker-1 (TEM1) is an attractive theranostic target expressed by the microenvironment of a wide range of tumors, as well as by sarcoma and neuroblastoma cells. We report on the radiolabeling and preclinical evaluation of the scFv78-Fc, a fully human TEM1-targeting antibody fragment cross-reactive with mouse TEM1.

Procedures

The scFv78-Fc was conjugated with the chelatorp-SCN-Bn-CHX-A”-DTPA, followed by labeling with indium-111. The number of chelators per molecule was estimated by mass spectrometry. A conventional saturation assay, extrapolated to infinite antigen concentration, was used to determine the immunoreactive fraction of the radioimmunoconjugate. The radiopharmaceutical biodistribution was assessed in immunodeficient mice grafted with Ewing’s sarcoma RD-ES and neuroblastoma SK-N-AS human TEM1-positive tumors. The full biodistribution studies were preceded by a dose-escalation experiment based on the simultaneous administration of the radiopharmaceutical with increasing amounts of unlabeled scFv78-Fc. Radiation dosimetry extrapolations to human adults were obtained from mouse biodistribution data according to established methodologies and additional assumptions concerning the impact of the tumor antigenic sink in the cross-species translation.

Results

[111In]CHX-DTPA-scFv78-Fc was obtained with a radiochemical purity > 98 % after 1 h incubation at 42 °C and ultrafiltration. It showed good stability in human serum and > 70 % immunoreactive fraction. Biodistribution data acquired in tumor-bearing mice confirmed fast blood clearance and specific tumor targeting in both xenograft models. The radiopharmaceutical off-target uptake was predominantly abdominal. After a theoretical injection of [111In]CHX-DTPA-scFv78-Fc to the reference person, the organs receiving the highest absorbed dose would be the spleen (0.876 mGy/MBq), the liver (0.570 mGy/MBq) and the kidneys (0.298 mGy/MBq). The total body dose and the effective dose would be 0.058 mGy/MBq and 0.116 mSv/MBq, respectively.

Conclusions

[111In]CHX-DTPA-scFv78-Fc binds specifically to endosialin/TEM1in vitroandin vivo. Dosimetry estimates are in the range of other monoclonal antibodies radiolabeled with indium-111. [111In]CHX-DTPA-scFv78-Fc could be potentially translated into clinic.
Is it meaningful to distinguish between Facebook addiction and social networking sites addiction? Psychometric analysis of Facebook addiction and social networking sites addiction scales
Authors: Balcerowska Julia M. , Bereznowski Piotr , Biernatowska Adriana , Atroszko Paweł A. , Pallesen Ståle , Andreassen Cecilie Schou
Published: January 2020

Studies conducted on Social Networking Sites (SNSs) addiction have to a large extent focused on Facebook as a prototypical example of SNS. Nonetheless, the evolution of SNSs has spawn conceptual and methodological controversies in terms of the operationalization of SNS addiction. In order to bring more clarity to this field the present study aimed to investigate the construct validity of the Bergen Social Media Addiction Scale (BSMAS) in comparison to the Bergen Facebook Addiction Scale (BFAS) among 1099 young subjects (146 Facebook-only users and 953 who had an account on Facebook and at least one additional SNS). Furthermore, the study aimed to investigate the unique contribution of SNS addiction to stress and general well-being above and beyond personality characteristic and Facebook addiction specifically. Participants completed a survey assessing SNS addiction, Facebook addiction, demography, Big Five personality traits, perceived stress, and general subjective well-being. BSMAS had acceptable fit with the data and demonstrated good reliability. Results showed that the scores of BSMAS were strongly associated with those of BFAS and that the relationship between the two measures was stronger in the group of Facebook-only users than in the group of multisite-social networkers. Moreover, SNS addiction was positively associated with perceived stress and negatively associated with subjective well-being after controlling for Facebook addiction and other study variables. Theoretical and methodological implications of the findings are discussed.
Prevalence and antibiotic resistance of rectal Mollicutes in HIV-infected men who have sex with men at the University Hospital of Dresden, Germany
Authors: Spornraft-Ragaller Petra , Dumke Roger
Published: January 2020

Background

Rectal sexually transmitted infections (STI) are common in men having sex with men (MSM). Mycoplasma genitalium is increasingly being reported in this localization, but due to frequent lack of symptoms at this site, clinical significance is still unclear. Rectal prevalence of Mycoplasma hominis and Ureaplasma species is not well studied so far. We aimed to investigate the prevalence and antibiotic sensitivity of rectal Mollicutes in our HIV-cohort.

Methods

In 227 MSM presenting for annual STI-screening, 317 anorectal swabs were collected from January 2017 to December 2018. PCR was performed for detection of Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, M. genitalium and also culture for M. hominis and Ureaplasma spec.

Results

Prevalence for M. genitalium, M. hominis, Ureaplasma spec., C. trachomatis and N. gonorrhoeae was 8.2%, 7.3%, 12.0%, 5.1% and 1.9%, respectively. Patients were asymptomatic with few exceptions. Seroprevalence of syphilis in 227 MSM was 41.9%. In 20 strains of M. genitalium, resistance-associated mutations to macrolides and quinolones were found in 60% and 30%, respectively; in five strains (25%) to both. M. hominis and Ureaplasma spec. frequently occurred combined, mostly in significant quantity consistent with infection. M. hominis and Ureaplasma spec. regularly showed sensitivity to tetracycline.

Conclusion

At screening, rectal colonization with Mollicutes was common in our patients, but rarely caused symptoms. Due to rising antibiotic resistance of M. genitalium against quinolones, therapeutic options are increasingly limited. Treatment should be guided by antibiotic resistance testing including quinolones. In persisting anorectal symptoms, M. hominis and Ureaplasma spec. should also be taken into account.
Not all Speed-Accuracy Trade-Off Manipulations Have the Same Psychological Effect
Authors: Katsimpokis Dimitris , Hawkins Guy E. , van Maanen Leendert
Published: January 2020

In many domains of psychological research, decisions are subject to a speed-accuracy trade-off: faster responses are more often incorrect. This trade-off makes it difficult to focus on one outcome measure in isolation – response time or accuracy. Here, we show that the distribution of choices and response times depends on specific task instructions. In three experiments, we show that the speed-accuracy trade-off function differs between two commonly used methods of manipulating the speed-accuracy trade-off: Instructional cues that emphasize decision speed or accuracy and the presence or absence of experimenter-imposed response deadlines. The differences observed in behavior were driven by different latent component processes of the popular diffusion decision model of choice response time: instructional cues affected the response threshold, and deadlines affected the rate of decrease of that threshold. These analyses support the notion of an “urgency” signal that influences decision-making under some time-critical conditions, but not others.
MakeHub: Fully Automated Generation of UCSC Genome Browser Assembly Hubs
Authors: Hoff Katharina Jasmin
Published: January 2020

Novel genomes are today often annotated by small consortia or individuals whose background is not from bioinformatics. This audience requires tools that are easy to use. Such need has been addressed by several genome annotation tools and pipelines. Visualizing resulting annotation is a crucial step of quality control. The UCSC Genome Browser is a powerful and popular genome visualization tool. Assembly Hubs, which can be hosted on any publicly available web server, allow browsing genomes via UCSC Genome Browser servers. The steps for creating custom Assembly Hubs are well documented and the required tools are publicly available. However, the number of steps for creating a novel Assembly Hub is large. In some cases, the format of input files needs to be adapted, which is a difficult task for scientists without programming background. Here, we describe MakeHub, a novel command line tool that generates Assembly Hubs for the UCSC Genome Browser in a fully automated fashion. The pipeline also allows extending previously created Hubs by additional tracks. MakeHub is freely available for downloading at https://github.com/Gaius-Augustus/MakeHub.
Evaluating the Gridded Agricultural Field Model in Chaco Canyon, New Mexico, Using Geophysical Remote Sensing
Authors: Sturm Jennie O. , Wills W. H.
Published: January 2020

Recent geophysical remote sensing, including ground-penetrating radar and magnetometry, has been used to investigate three areas within Chaco Canyon, New Mexico, predicted to contain prehispanic agricultural fields. These localities include a well-known but enigmatic area of large grid patterns near the Chetro Ketl great house, which are visible from the air but not at ground level. The gridded area has been interpreted by many researchers as an agricultural field system, and this perspective has in turn been utilized to model agricultural land use throughout the canyon, particularly intensification associated with emergent social complexity. The geophysical surveys revealed evidence of buried features at all three study areas, but the patterns expressed by these features do not clearly conform to the pattern predicted in the gridded agricultural field model. We argue that the surficial grid pattern seen at the Chetro Ketl field is an unusual example of land modification in the canyon and thus unlikely to represent typical Chacoan agricultural field systems. Instead, canyon residents employed a diverse range of agricultural techniques suited to the variable and patchy nature of canyon hydrology and soils.
‘Pens that confound the label of citizenship’: self-translations and literary identities
Authors: Wilson Rita
Published: January 2020

The linguistic and cultural identity of transnational writers who choose to write in an adopted language or to self-translate, has gained increasing interest among researchers over the last decade. Approaches to the topic have ranged from textual analyses of translingual narratives and language memoirs to more ontological investigations of the processes of identity-formation in transcultural frameworks. Acknowledging that there is no one-to-one correspondence between linguistic units and ethnic, social or cultural formations, this paper considers the relationship between the literary practices of contemporary translingual writers and the role of language both in the formation of personal identities and in the reconfiguration of constructions of national identity and literary belonging. Specifically, I examine how two contemporary women writers, Francesca Marciano and Jhumpa Lahiri, who each represent a remarkable case of self-conscious linguistic transformation, interrogate the traditional construct of a monolingual, mono-ethnic and mono-cultural national identity. I argue that their autofictions reflect the multilingual and transcultural reality of contemporary transnational literature and instantiate broader issues connected with the definition, categorisation and consequent evaluation of literary canons and literary citizenship.
Sexual Violence, Counterinsurgents, and the Legacies of Jean Lartéguy'sThe Centurions
Authors: FITZGERALD DAVID
Published: January 2020

Jean Lartéguy's 1960 novelThe Centurions, which follows a group of French paratroopers through the wars in Indochina and Algeria, is one that has achieved cult status within the US military. In embracing this novel as a valuable how-to guide for counterinsurgents, those who promote The Centurions ignore the sexual violence and misogyny at the heart of the work, reflecting deeper silences over the issue of sexual violence in war. This article explores both the depictions of sexual violence inThe Centurionsand the silences that surround those depictions.
Interpreting the Subsurface Lithofacies at High Lithological Resolution by Integrating Information From Well‐Log Data and Rock‐Core Digital Images
Authors: Jeong Jina , Park Eungyu , Emelyanova Irina , Pervukhina Marina , Esteban Lionel , Yun Seong‐Taek
Published: January 2020

Spectral facies interpretation and classification methods have been proposed to improve the sophistication of interpretation of the subsurface heterogeneity. In the spectral facies interpretations, the intensity values of the RGB spectrum and the local entropy from rock‐core digital images are used, and the results are compared to conventional electrofacies and expert petrophysical interpretations. During the classification, a practically applicable model that identifies the more detailed types of lithofacies is constructed by using a multilayer neural network model, with the interpreted spectral facies and well‐log data from the corresponding depths used as response and explanatory variables, respectively. Core digital images and five types of well‐log data from the Satyr 5 well in Western Australia are applied for the actual implementation. Through comparative interpretations, three spectral facies are identified as separable lithofacies (i.e., shale, shaly‐sandstone, and sandstone lithofacies), which is supported by detailed HyLogger mineralogy along the tested cores. On the other hand, two electrofacies (i.e., shale‐dominant and sand‐dominant facies) are identified by a conventional method. In the classification based on the spectral facies, the trained multilayer neural network model showed high prediction accuracy for all the lithofacies. Based on these observations, it is confirmed that more precise lithofacies interpretation and classification can be conducted with the developed methods. The developed methods have the potential to improve subsurface characterization when high lithological resolution is essential.
When Do Complex Transport Dynamics Arise in Natural Groundwater Systems?
Authors: Wu J. , Lester D. R. , Trefry M. G. , Metcalfe G.
Published: January 2020

In a recent paper (Trefry et al., 2019, https://doi.org/10.1029/2018wr023864), we showed that the interplay of aquifer heterogeneity and poroelasticity can produce complex transport in tidally forced aquifers, with significant implications for solute transport, mixing, and reaction. However, what was unknown was how broadly these transport dynamics can arise in natural groundwater systems and how these dynamics depend upon the aquifer properties and tidal and regional flow characteristics. In this study we answer these questions through parametric studies of these governing properties. We uncover the mechanisms that govern complex transport dynamics and the bifurcations between transport structures that depend upon changes in the governing parameters, and we determine the propensity for complex dynamics to occur in natural aquifer systems. These results clearly demonstrate that complex transport structures and dynamics may arise in natural tidally forced aquifers around the world, producing solute transport and mixing behavior that is very different to that of the conventional Darcy flow picture.
Effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of The Daily Mile on childhood weight outcomes and wellbeing: a cluster randomised controlled trial
Authors: Breheny Katie , Passmore Sandra , Adab Peymane , Martin James , Hemming Karla , Lancashire Emma R. , Frew Emma
Published: January 2020

Background

The Daily Mile is designed to increase physical activity levels with children running or walking around school grounds for 15-min daily. It has been adopted by schools worldwide and endorsed as a solution to tackle obesity, despite no robust evidence of its benefits. We conducted a cluster randomised controlled trial to determine its clinical and cost-effectiveness.

Methods

Forty schools were randomly assigned (1:1) to either the Daily Mile intervention or control group in which only the usual school health and wellbeing activities were implemented. The primary outcome was BMI z-score (BMIz) at 12 months follow-up from baseline, with planned subgroup analysis to examine differential effects. Primary economic analysis outcome was incremental cost per Quality-Adjusted-Life-Year (QALY) gained.

Results

Using a constrained randomisation approach, balanced on school size, baseline BMIz and proportion of pupils eligible for free school meals, 20 schools were allocated to intervention (n = 1,153 participants) and 20 to control (n = 1,127); 3 schools withdrew (2 intervention, 1 control). At 12 months, BMIz data were available for 18 intervention schools (n = 850) and 19 control schools (n = 820 participants). Using intention-to-treat analysis the adjusted mean difference (MD) in BMIz (intervention − control) was −0.036 (95% CI: −0.085 to 0.013, p = 0.146). Pre-specified subgroup analysis showed a significant interaction with sex (p = 0.001) suggesting a moderate size benefit of The Daily Mile in girls (MD −0.097, 95% CI −0.156 to −0.037). This was consistent with the exploratory economic results that showed The Daily Mile to be highly cost-effective in girls (£2,492 per QALY), but not in boys, and overall to have a 76% chance of cost-effectiveness for the whole sample, at the commonly applied UK threshold of £20,000 per QALY.

Conclusions

Overall the Daily Mile had a small but non-significant effect on BMIz, however, it had a greater effect in girls suggesting that it might be considered as a cost-effective component of a system-wide approach to childhood obesity prevention.
Author Correction: Single-photon avalanche diode imagers in biophotonics: review and outlook
Authors: Bruschini Claudio , Homulle Harald , Antolovic Ivan Michel , Burri Samuel , Charbon Edoardo
Published: January 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.