bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non‐24‐hour sleep‐wake disorder successfully treated with the combination of ramelteon and suvorexant in a case of autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Iwata Masaaki , Kaneko Koichi
Published: September 2020

Introduction

Non‐24‐hour sleep‐wake disorder (N24SWD) is often observed in the visually impaired and those who isolate indoors. Melatonin receptor agonists may be used for treatment, but there is currently no evidence that they are effective in patients without visual impairment.

Case

We report a case of a 23‐year‐old woman who withdrew from her social life owing to autism spectrum disorder and experienced an unusual sleep rhythm. She presented with N24SWD. The N24SWD cycle averaged 25.6 days but was extended to 42 days using ramelteon. However, this was not enough. We prescribed the addition of suvorexant and the sleep cycle returned to normal.

Conclusion

N24SWD is a disease that seriously impairs social life and productivity. We propose a possible treatment strategy for N24SWD using ramelteon and suvorexant.
The outcomes of relapsed acute myeloid leukemia in children: Results from the Japanese Pediatric Leukemia/Lymphoma Study Group AML‐05R study
Authors: Moritake Hiroshi , Tanaka Shiro , Miyamura Takako , Nakayama Hideki , Shiba Norio , Shimada Akira , Terui Kiminori , Yuza Yuki , Koh Katsuyoshi , Goto Hiroaki , Kakuda Harumi , Saito Akiko , Hasegawa Daisuke , Iwamoto Shotaro , Taga Takashi , Adachi Souichi , Tomizawa Daisuke
Published: September 2020

Background

The prognosis of children with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) has improved with the efficacy of hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) as a second‐line therapy and improvements in supportive care following anthracycline‐ and cytarabine‐based chemotherapy; however, the outcomes of children with relapsed AML still remain unsatisfactory.

Procedure

In order to identify prognostic factors and improve their prognosis, we analyzed 111 patients who relapsed after treatment with the Japanese Pediatric Leukemia/Lymphoma Study Group (JPLSG) AML‐05 protocol and who were registered in the retrospective JPLSG AML‐05R study.

Results

The 5‐year overall survival rate was 36.1%. The major determinant of survival was duration from the diagnosis to relapse. The mean duration in the nonsurviving group (10.1 ± 4.1 months) was shorter than that in the surviving group (16.3 ± 8.3 months) (P < .01). Moreover, achieving a second complete remission (CR2) prior to HCT was associated with a good prognosis (P < .01). Etoposide, cytarabine, and mitoxantrone (ECM)‐ or fludarabine, cytarabine, and granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor (FLAG)‐based regimens were therefore recommended for reinduction therapy (P < .01). A genetic analysis also revealed the prognostic significance of FMS‐like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3)‐internal tandem duplication as a poor prognostic marker (P = .04) and core binding factor‐AML, t(8;21), and inv(16) as good prognostic markers (P < .01).

Conclusions

Achieving a CR2 prior to HCT is important in order to improve the prognosis of relapsed pediatric AML. Recent molecular targeted therapies, such as FLT3 inhibitors, may contribute to overcome their prognoses. Larger prospective investigations are necessary to establish individualized treatment strategies for patients with relapsed childhood AML.
Achieving directional migration of hindered phenols in polymer‐based damping hybrid via the construction of alternating layers
Authors: Xu Kangming , Hu Qiaoman , Wu Hong , Guo Shaoyun , Zhang Fengshun
Published: September 2020

Though hindered phenol/polymer‐based hybrids show great potential in damping fields, the application of the materials is limited due to the irregular migration and self‐aggregation of hindered phenol. To overcome this problem, 8‐layered polyurethane (TPU)‐polyvinyl acetate (PVAc) with varying phenol content in the polyurethane layer was fabricated using coextrusion. The distinct multilayer microstructure was first observed through the scanning electron microscopy. Subsequent molecular dynamics simulation revealed a directional migration of the hindered phenol to the interface without self‐aggregation, existence of intermolecular hydrogen bonds between TPU (or PVAc) and hindered phenol, promoted diffusion of TPU and PVAc layers and reduced free volume. Then, the structure evolution was associated to the enhanced damping properties of the multilayer hybrids by the combination of the results of dynamic mechanical analysis.
Spatially resolved electrical modelling of cracks and other inhomogeneities in crystalline silicon solar cells
Authors: Kikelj Miha , Lipovšek Benjamin , Bokalič Matevž , Topič Marko
Published: September 2020

We developed a fully scalable quasi‐SPICE approach for electrical modelling of stress‐induced inhomogeneities in crystalline silicon solar cells, based on damage detected by electroluminescence imaging. We present a model of active and inactive microcracks, highlight their effects on the current‐voltage characteristic, and validate the model on a number of experimental cases. The generalisation of our model to a complexly damaged solar cell shows excellent agreement with the measurements, with only 0.12% estimation error of the power loss of the complexly damaged cell. The ability to accurately model fundamental stress induced inhomogeneities, and their effects on cell level is crucial to estimating long‐term performance degradation and energy yield of installed photovoltaic modules throughout their lifetime. The developed scalable model paves a path to intricate, statistically supported modelling for power loss prediction and mitigation in solar cells, photovoltaic modules, and photovoltaic arrays caused by mechanically induced inhomogeneities.
Defoliation‐induced compensatory transpiration is compromised in SUT4‐RNAi Populus
Authors: Harding Scott A. , Frost Christopher J. , Tsai Chung‐Jui
Published: September 2020

The tonoplast sucrose transporter PtaSUT4 is well expressed in leaves of Populus tremula × Populus alba (INRA 717‐IB4), and its inhibition by RNA‐interference (RNAi) alters leaf sucrose homeostasis. Whether sucrose partitioning between the vacuole and the cytosol is modulated by PtaSUT4 for specific physiological outcomes in Populus remains unexplored. In this study, partial defoliation was used to elicit compensatory increases in photosynthesis and transpiration by the remaining leaves in greenhouse‐grown poplar. Water uptake, leaf gas exchange properties, growth and nonstructural carbohydrate abundance in source and sink organs were then compared between wild‐type and SUT4‐RNAi lines. Partial defoliation increased maximum photosynthesis rates similarly in all lines. There was no indication that source leaf sugar levels changed differently between wild‐type and RNAi plants following partial defoliation. Sink levels of hexose (glucose and fructose) and starch decreased similarly in all lines. Interestingly, plant water uptake after partial defoliation was not as well sustained in RNAi as in wild‐type plants. While the compensatory increase in photosynthesis was similar between genotypes, leaf transpiration increased less robustly in RNAi than wild‐type plants. SUT4‐RNAi and wild‐type source leaves differed constitutively in their bulk modulus of elasticity, a measure of leaf turgor, and storage water capacitance. The data demonstrate that reduced sucrose partitioning due to PtaSUT4‐RNAi altered turgor control and compensatory transpiration capacity more strikingly than photosynthesis and sugar export. The results are consistent with the interpretation that SUT4 may control vacuolar turgor independently of sink carbon provisioning.
Urine Loss during a Volleyball Competition: Comparison between Amateur and Professional Athletes
Authors: da Silva Pereira Franciele , Haupenthal Alessandro , Da Roza Thuane Huyer , Mazo Giovana Zarpellon , Virtuoso Janeisa Franck
Published: September 2020

Background

High‐impact sports can cause dysfunction to the female pelvic floor that leads to the occurrence of stress urinary incontinence.

Objective

To identify and compare the presence of urine loss between professional and amateur female volleyball athletes during a competition.

Methods

A cross‐sectional and comparative study was conducted on 75 volleyball athletes, including 30 amateurs and 45 professional athletes. Female athletes 18 years of age or older were included. Urine loss during the competition was evaluated by self‐report and measured by a pad test (in grams). Day‐to‐day urinary incontinence was identified using the Urinary Distress Inventory 6 (UDI‐6). Before the beginning of the game, the instruments were applied by individual interview for data collection and the pad was positioned. After the game, the pad was removed and weighed again. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used, with a significance level of 5%.

Results

Half of the professional (50.0%) and amateur (55.6%) athletes have symptoms of urine loss during a competition. Objective urine loss was higher among professional athletes (4.5 ± 1.4 g) compared to amateur athletes (3.8 ± 1.4 g). There was a significant difference (P < .001) in objective urine loss between symptomatic (mean = 5.41, standard deviation [SD] = 0.8) and asymptomatic professional athletes (mean = 3.40, SD = 1.3).

Conclusion

Self‐report of urinary incontinence during the competition was common among professional and amateur athletes. However, objective urine loss was significantly higher among professional athletes.
Photoinitiated polymerization of methacrylates comprising phenyl moieties
Authors: Sanay Berran , Strehmel Bernd , Strehmel Veronika
Published: September 2020

Investigation of photopolymerization kinetics of 4‐(4‐methacryloyloxyphenyl)‐butan‐2‐one (1) in comparison with 2‐phenoxyethyl methacrylate (2) and phenyl methacrylate (3) using a UV‐LED emitting at 395 nm shows significantly faster polymerization of 1 compared to both 2 and 3 at 40°C. Vitrification affects photopolymerization kinetics of all methacrylates under investigation. Interestingly, quantitative final conversion is observed during photoinitiated polymerization of 1 and 2 whereas 3 shows limited conversion at about 80%. Furthermore, higher degree of polymerization is obtained by photoinitiated polymerization of 1 compared to 2 and 3. This shows that the 3‐oxobutyl substituent at the phenyl ring of 1 significantly affects both polymerization kinetics and final conversion of the photoinitiated polymerization. Moreover, an additional higher molecular weight fraction is observed in case of polymerization of 1 at 85°C that is above the glass transition temperature of the polymer formed during photoinitiated polymerization. As a thermal polymerization at 85°C in the absence of light results in a high molecular weight polymer as well, an additional thermal process may be discussed as reason for the higher molecular weight polymer fraction in case of the photopolymer made at 85°C.
Conservation Policy: Helping or hindering science to unlock properties of plants and fungi
Authors: Williams China , Walsh Alexandra , Vaglica Valentina , Sirakaya Aysegül , da Silva Manuela , Dalle Gemedo , Winterton Deborah , Annecke Wendy , Smith Paul , Kersey Paul J. , Way Michael , Antonelli Alexandre , Cowell Carly
Published: September 2020

Societal Impact Statement

Biodiversity loss is happening at an unprecedented rate. Understanding and protecting biodiversity has never been more urgent, and scientific research is key to this. Fair and transparent access and benefit sharing policies enable research to take place, whilst supporting sustainable livelihoods of communities and ensuring benefits are shared. Current national legislation has been unevenly implemented and, in this article, we recommend frameworks be developed to standardize the provision and use of genetic resources for non‐commercial research.

Access to genetic resources for scientific research is vital to support and promote the conservation and sustainable use of the world's biodiversity. The regulatory framework for research is stipulated by Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) legislation at a national level, but other elements – legal transparency, respect, cooperation, and trust – are essential for its effective and sustainable implementation. Despite the intention of this “ABS regime” to protect natural resources and associated knowledge from misappropriation, several studies have questioned whether national regulatory approaches have led to constraints on research and conservation.

We analyse evidence and provide case studies on how these regulations are affecting research. We find that the number of Internationally Recognized Certificates of Compliance (IRCC) of the Nagoya Protocol (NP), the key compliance mechanism of the ABS system, doubled in the six months prior to February 2020 and analyse why this may be the case.

Additionally, a survey of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) Authorities in 28 countries, found differences in the way the Registered Scientific Institute scheme is interpreted and used to facilitate scientific research.

Our results suggest while the regulatory systems are perceived as hindering research and conservation, regulatory mechanisms enabling responsible research are becoming increasingly functional. We argue that functional and transparent systems are needed for both regulators and researchers, to ensure that non‐commercial research can continue smoothly, and present conclusions to support research for the benefit of all countries and partners involved, through appropriate frameworks for implementation and reporting.
Biodiversity and patents: Overview of plants and fungi covered by patents
Authors: Simmonds Monique S. J. , Fang Rui , Wyatt Lilybelle , Bell Elizabeth , Allkin Bob , Forest Felix , Wynberg Rachel , da Silva Manuela , Zhang Ben Gang , Shi Liu Jiu , Dong Qi Yao , Demissew Sebsebe
Published: September 2020

Social Impact Statement

Patents can be used as a measure of innovation and to illustrate the commercial potential of plant and fungal biodiversity. The proportion of plant species named in patents represents only 6.2% of plant species, whereas the proportion of fungi is likely less than 0.4%. Fungi clearly justify further research. Innovation on a species usually drives more innovation on that species. We suggest that we should ensure that commercialization frameworks encourage studies on a greater diversity of plants and fungi. This could not only increase the range of biodiversity‐based products and associated income but also incentivize their conservation and encourage more fundamental research.

In this review, patents are used as a measure of innovation, and data show that a low proportion of plant and fungal biodiversity is mentioned in patents. The proportion of plant species named in patents represents only 6.2% of plant species, whereas the proportion of fungi is most likely less than 0.4%. The number of species within a plant family mentioned in patents varies greatly. The following families having the greatest numbers: Asteraceae with 1,445 species (4.5% of species), Fabaceae with 1,299 species (5.8%), Poaceae with 1,008 species (8.5%), and Rosaceae with 718 species (12.7%). Case studies from Brazil, Ethiopia, and South Africa explore some of the controversies associated with patenting, especially when patents have not taken prior art into account. In contrast, a case study on plants and fungi used in traditional Chinese medicine illustrates their economic value and their potential to support new innovations. Innovative ways to use plant and fungal biodiversity has the potential to generate wealth, reduce poverty, improve human well‐being and in theory incentivize biodiversity conservation. International and national policies and laws that aim to facilitate equitable benefit‐sharing associated with access to and use of genetic diversity need to be reviewed to help facilitate innovation, as well as ensure that the rights of communities to use these resources are recognized and supported.
Conformational stability of the bacterial adhesin, FimH, with an inactivating mutation
Authors: Liu Jenny , Amaral Luis A. Nunes , Keten Sinan
Published: September 2020

Allostery governing two conformational states is one of the proposed mechanisms for catch‐bond behavior in adhesive proteins. In FimH, a catch‐bond protein expressed by pathogenic bacteria, separation of two domains disrupts inhibition by the pilin domain. Thus, tensile force can induce a conformational change in the lectin domain, from an inactive state to an active state with high affinity. To better understand allosteric inhibition in two‐domain FimH (H2 inactive), we use molecular dynamics simulations to study the lectin domain alone, which has high affinity (HL active), and also the lectin domain stabilized in the low‐affinity conformation by an Arg‐60‐Pro mutation (HL mutant). Because ligand‐binding induces an allostery‐like conformational change in HL mutant, this more experimentally tractable version has been proposed as a “minimal model” for FimH. We find that HL mutant has larger backbone fluctuations than both H2 inactive and HL active, at the binding pocket and allosteric interdomain region. We use an internal coordinate system of dihedral angles to identify protein regions with differences in backbone and side chain dynamics beyond the putative allosteric pathway sites. By characterizing HL mutant dynamics for the first time, we provide additional insight into the transmission of allosteric information across the lectin domain and build upon structural and thermodynamic data in the literature to further support the use of HL mutant as a “minimal model.” Understanding how to alter protein dynamics to prevent the allosteric conformational change may guide drug development to prevent infection by blocking FimH adhesion.
A systematic review of preclinical studies on the efficacy of propolis for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Soleimani Davood , Miryan Mahsa , Tutunchi Helda , Navashenaq Jamshid G. , Sadeghi Ehsan , Ghayour‐Mobarhan Majid , Ferns Gordon A. , Ostadrahimi Alireza
Published: September 2020

Propolis is a resinous substance produced by bees from plants. There has been some evidence indicating that propolis may be a candidate for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) because of its potent antioxidant properties and ability to modulate immune response and gut microbiome. The objective of this systematic review was to investigate the role of propolis in the treatment of IBD, emphasizing possible mechanisms underlying the anti‐inflammatory properties of it. Searches were performed in ISI, PubMed/Medline, Scopus, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases up to March 2020. According to the studies examined in this review, the administration of propolis can be useful in attenuating many aspects of clinical, macroscopic, and histological features of colitis in animal models. The efficacy of propolis in the treatment of IBD might be attributed to its potent antioxidants and anti‐inflammatory activities. Propolis may also be involved in the modulation of the gut microbiota and in the improvement of the intestinal mucosal barrier function. The major mechanism of action is most likely to be mediated via the prevention of some transcriptional factors and associated proteins. However, future studies are warranted to investigate the clinical utility of propolis as a candidate in the treatment of IBD.
Flat crown ethers with planar tetracoordinate carbon atoms
Authors: Thirumoorthy Krishnan , Thimmakondu Venkatesan S.
Published: September 2020

Novel flat crown ether molecules have been characterized in silico using density functional theory. Monomer units of Si2C3 with a planar tetracoordinate carbon (ptC) atom have been used as building blocks. Alkali (Li+, Na+, K+, Rb+, and Cs+) and alkaline‐earth (Be2+, Mg2+, Ca2+, Sr2+, and Ba2+) metal ions, and uranyl (UO) ion selective complexes have also been theoretically identified. The high symmetry and higher structural rigidity of the host molecules may likely impart higher selectivity in chelation. The potential energy surface of the parent elemental composition, Si2C3H2, has been investigated using coupled‐cluster (CC) approximation. The molecule with a ptC atom within the latter is a low‐lying isomer lying 12.41 kcal mol−1 above the global minimum at the CCSD(T)/cc‐pVTZ level. The crown ether molecules identified here could theoretically be considered the derivatives of the ptC atom isomer. Theoretical binding energies (ΔE; 0 K) and thermally corrected Gibbs free energies (ΔG; 298.15 K) for crown ether molecules have been computed to gauge their binding affinities.
A statistical model of secondary ion emission and attenuation clarifies disparities in quasi‐simultaneous arrival coefficients measured with secondary ion mass spectrometry
Authors: Jones Clive , Fike David A.
Published: September 2020

Rationale

Secondary ion mass spectrometry data collected using electron multiplier detectors are subject to a correction for the quasi‐simultaneous arrival (QSA) effect. Published Poisson statistical models indicate that the QSA coefficients, β, should have an invariant value of 0.5, whereas, with one exception, published experimental determinations vary between 0.6 and 1.0, with a mean value of 0.75.

Methods

We developed a more complex model, combining both ion emission and attenuation, that predicts the observed range in measured β and elucidates the mechanism of secondary ion formation. For a given aperture setting, any secondary ion has an equal probability of successful transit to the electron multiplier. Binomial statistics can model pass–fail aperture attenuation but require probability distributions of the quasi‐simultaneously emitted (QSE) ion tally, per primary ion, as input. Assuming (a) that each primary ion impact results in 0, 1, 2,… secondary ion emissions, randomly, with an average Ks and (b) that there is finite probability (P2) of a further emission process dependent on Ks, the required QSE probability distributions were generated via a combined Poisson–binomial statistical model.

Results

The value of β was output as a function of Ks and P2. For values of P2 > 0 and any value of Ks, β always exceeds 0.5. As P2 → 0, β → 0.5; for values of increasing P2 > 0.5 and decreasing Ks < 0.5, β → >1.

Conclusions

Were the emission of one ion not to influence the probability of the formation of a second (i.e. model output for P2 = 0), β should always be 0.5. Yet measurements have never reported this value. Consequently, assuming that published β values are correct, emissions of QSE secondary ions do not occur independently, and it may be inferred that there are linked mechanisms of secondary ion formation as shown here.
Spatial Effects between Two 3D Self‐Supported Carbon‐Nanotube‐Based Skeleton as Binder‐Free Cathodes for Lithium‐Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Guo Lianzhen , Li Xinyan , Xu Zhuijun , Zhou Shenglin , Zhang Xiaohua , Ni Jiangfeng , Cheng Yajun , Yang Zhaohui
Published: September 2020

In this manuscript a deep comparison of the spatial effect is conducted between vertically‐aligned carbon nanotube array (CNTA) and 3D inter‐connected carbon nanotube sponge (CNTS) based self‐supported and adhesive free cathode material for lithium‐sulfur battery. Melt impregnation (M–CNTA/S and M‐CNTS/S) and solution penetration (S‐CNTA/S and S‐CNTS/S) methods are separately carried out to introduce sulfur into two carbon nanotube‐based matrix. Besides, random distributed carbon nanotube powders (RCNT)‐based cathode made through a slurry coating process is also prepared for comparison. As a result, the aligned CNTA skeleton has the most efficient transfer paths and regular nanometer‐sized gaps, which greatly benefit the directional transmission of electrons, better rate performance, smaller cell resistance and long cyclic stability. Especially, the cell made by M‐CNTA/S delivers an outstanding high‐rate performance of 3 C −859.3 mAh g−1, 5 C −833.1 mAh g−1 and 10 C −702.8 mAh g−1, with a capacity retention of 77 % and coulombic eﬃciency (∼100 %) after 200 cycles at a rate of 3 C. Meanwhile, the interconnected CNTS has a larger pore diameter and 3D conductive network, which benefits higher sulfur loading and electrochemical activity of sulfur. In particular, the M‐CNTS/S with a sulfur content up to 60 wt %, achieves an impressive multiplier performance of 0.5 C 1285 mAh g−1, 1 C 1030 mAh g−1 and 3 C 900 mAh g−1. The retention of the capacity reaches around 88 % after 100 charge‐discharge cycles at 3 C. The current observation reveals the crucial effects from the spatial structure and sulfur impregnation method on the performance of carbon nanotube/sulfur (C/S)‐based cathodes for lithium‐sulfur batteries, which serves as important guidance for the development of high‐performance cathode materials.
Antimicrobial, Antioxidant and Antiproliferative Activities of Novel Quinolones
Authors: Ceylan Şule , Cebeci Yıldız Uygun , Demirbaş Neslihan , Batur Özge Özşen , Özakpınar Özlem Bingöl
Published: September 2020

The compound (2) formed by esterification of dimethyl morpholine (1) was converted to acetohydrazide (3). Subsequently Schiff bases (4 a–d) and carboxy(thio)amide derivatives (5 a–e) were synthesized. Then 1,2,4‐triazole (6 a–e), thia(oxa)zolidine (7 c,e) and thia(oxa)zol (8 c,e) derivatives were obtained by ring closure from carboxy(thio)amides. Mannich bases, which are containing quinolone were synthesized from 1,2,4‐triazoles. The structures of newly synthesized compounds were illuminated by spectroscopic methods. Their antimicrobial (MIC method), antioxidant (DPPH, FRAP, and CUPRAC methods), and anticancer activities (MTT method) were examined. Results showed that most of the compounds exhibited good antimicrobial (<0.03–31.25 μg/mL with MIC values) and antioxidant activities (IC50=0.001–0.004 with DPPH values). Also, some of the compounds have been found to have antiproliferative effects on the prostate (PC‐3), liver (Hep3B), and breast (MCF‐7) human cancer cells, and also these compounds did not have a cytotoxic effect on a normal cell.
Preparation and Adsorption Performance of Efficient Adsorbent for Heavy Metal Copper(II) Using Graphene‐Oxide‐Based Composites
Authors: Liu Handong , Guo Jianye , Zhou Yihua , Qian Jun
Published: September 2020

Graphene oxide/polyethylene imine (GO/PEI) and graphene oxide/polyethylene imine/carboxymethyl cellulose (GO/PEI/CMC), these two kinds of composite adsorbent materials for heavy metal Cu2+ were prepared by cross‐linking and graft copolymerization, and the GO was obtained by an improved method of Hummers in this work. The adsorption properties of GO, GO/PEI and GO/PEI/CMC on Cu2+ were compared and analyzed with the initial pH value of solution, adsorption time, initial concentration of Cu2+ and adsorbent dosage as the indicators. The results showed that the optimal adsorption pH of GO/PEI and GO/PEI/CMC for Cu2+ were 5.0∼5.5; both GO/PEI and GO/PEI/CMC reached adsorption equilibrium in 195 min; when the adsorption is saturated, compared with the maximum adsorption capacity of GO (112.91 mg⋅g−1), the maximum adsorption capacity of GO/PEI and GO/PEI/CMC for Cu2+ reaches 294.41 mg g−1 and 302.04 mg g−1, respectively. Moreover, GO/PEI/CMC is more convenient for solid‐liquid separation after adsorption, which is a kind of adsorption material with more practical application potential.
Surgical excision of a malignant metastatic melanoma located in a skeletal muscle of the lateral thorax of a horse
Authors: Billi Theodora , Karadima Vasiliki , Tyrnenopoulou Panagiota , Apostolopoulou Emmanouela P. , Brellou Georgia D. , Diakakis Nikolaos
Published: September 2020

Background

A 20‐year‐old grey Warmblood gelding that had history of dermal melanomatosis.

Objective

To report surgical treatment of a 6‐cm large malignant metastatic melanoma located in the cutaneous trunci muscle of the left lateral thorax of a horse.

Methods

A 20‐year‐old grey Warmblood gelding was referred for evaluation of a large, rapidly growing, thoracic mass. Clinical examination revealed an ovoid, firm, non‐painful, movable mass, approximately 6 cm in diameter, located in the cutaneous trunci muscle of the left lateral thorax. Multiple melanocytic nodules were also found at the perianal region and ventral tail. Rectal examination, ultrasonography and endoscopy of the respiratory tract revealed no melanomas internally. Haematological and biochemical values were within normal limits. Surgical excision of both the thoracic mass and perianal nodules was the treatment of choice. Histopathology of the distant thoracic mass confirmed the diagnosis of malignant metastatic melanoma secondary to the perineal lesions that were confirmed as dermal melanomatosis.

Results

The horse recovered uneventfully. Up until 3 years post surgery there was no tumour regrowth at the excision sites.

Conclusion

Surgical excision of the metastatic melanoma was performed and considered successful, with no gross evidence of tumour reoccurrence. Despite the fact that surgical excision is considered a treatment option regarding equine dermal melanomatosis, there is no previously published study proposing surgical removal of distant malignant metastatic melanocytic masses. This is the first report of a successful surgical excision of a large (6 cm) metastatic melanocytic tumour from the skeletal muscle of the lateral thorax of a horse.
Revealing soil‐borne hydrogel effects on soil hydraulic properties using a roughness‐triangular pore space model
Authors: Zheng Wenjuan , Shen Chongyang , Zeng Saiqi , Jin Yan
Published: September 2020

Understanding the influence of soil‐borne hydrogels (e.g., bacterial extracellular polymeric substances [EPS] and biofilm or root‐derived mucilage) on soil hydraulic properties is crucial for accurate modeling of flow and transport in porous media. The underlying mechanisms of how hydrogels modify soil physical and hydraulic properties, however, remain unclear. In this study, we applied a roughness‐triangular pore space model (R‐TPSM) to simulate water retention curve and hydraulic conductivity of hydrogel‐affected soils. The model considers the effective soil pore size distribution and physicochemical properties (e.g., surface tension and surface roughness) of soil and soil solution. The modeling results are in good agreement with measured water retention curves and hydraulic conductivity for different textured soils. Comparison of the fitted model parameters between control and hydrogel‐treated soil samples indicates that hydrogels reduce surface tension and shift the effective pore size distribution to a narrower size range. Hydrogels generally increase water retention in the form of adsorptive films and reduce film flow under relatively dry conditions. This study highlights the importance of considering reduced surface tension and mean pore size by hydrogels in changing soil hydraulic properties, which has important implications for accurate modeling of water distribution and flow in the rhizosphere.
Precision inclusive Higgs physics at e+e− colliders with tracking detectors and without calorimetry
Authors: Draper Patrick , Kozaczuk Jonathan , Thomas Scott
Published: September 2020

Abstract

A primary goal of a future e+e− collider program will be the precision measurement of Higgs boson properties. For practical reasons it is of interest to determine the minimal set of detector specifications required to reach this and other scientific goals. Here we investigate the precision obtainable for the e+e−Zhμ+μ−X inclusive cross section and the Higgs boson mass using the di-muon recoil method, considering a detector that has only an inner tracking system within a solenoidal magnetic field, surrounded by many nuclear interaction lengths of absorbing material, and an outer muon identification system. We find that the sensitivity achievable in these measurements with such a tracking detector is only marginally reduced compared to that expected for a general purpose detector with additional electromagnetic and hadronic calorimeter systems. The difference results mainly from multi-photon backgrounds that are not as easily rejected with tracking detectors. We also comment on the prospects for an analogous measurement of the e+e−→Zh→e+e−X inclusive cross section. Finally, we study searches for light scalars utilizing the di-muon recoil method, estimating the projected reach with a tracking or general purpose detector.
The fate of hints: updated global analysis of three-flavor neutrino oscillations
Authors: Esteban Ivan , Gonzalez-Garcia M.C. , Maltoni Michele , Schwetz Thomas , Zhou Albert
Published: September 2020

Abstract

Our herein described combined analysis of the latest neutrino oscillation data presented at the Neutrino2020 conference shows that previous hints for the neutrino mass ordering have significantly decreased, and normal ordering (NO) is favored only at the 1.6σ level. Combined with the χ2 map provided by Super-Kamiokande for their atmospheric neutrino data analysis the hint for NO is at 2.7σ. The CP conserving value δCP = 180° is within 0.6σ of the global best fit point. Only if we restrict to inverted mass ordering, CP violation is favored at the ∼ 3σ level. We discuss the origin of these results — which are driven by the new data from the T2K and NOvA long-baseline experiments —, and the relevance of the LBL-reactor oscillation frequency complementarity. The previous 2.2σ tension in ∆m221 preferred by KamLAND and solar experiments is also reduced to the 1.1σ level after the inclusion of the latest Super-Kamiokande solar neutrino results. Finally we present updated allowed ranges for the oscillation parameters and for the leptonic Jarlskog determinant from the global analysis.
Refinement of the Maxwell formula for a composite reinforced by circular cross-section fibres. Part II: using Padé approximants
Authors: Andrianov Igor I. , Awrejcewicz Jan , Starushenko Galina A. , Gabrinets Vladimir A.
Published: September 2020

The effective properties of the fiber-reinforced composite materials with fibers of circle cross section are investigated. The novel estimation for the effective coefficient of thermal conductivity refining the classical Maxwell formula is derived. The method of asymptotic homogenization is used. For an analytical solution of the periodically repeated cell problem the Schwarz alternating process (SAP) was employed. Convergence of this method was proved by S. Mikhlin, S. Sobolev, V. Mityushev. Unfortunately, the rate of the convergence is often slow, especially for nondilute high-contrast composite materials. For improving this drawback we used Padé approximations for various forms of SAP solutions with the following additive matching of obtained expressions. As a result, the solutions in our paper are obtained in a fairly simple and convenient form. They can be used even for a volume fraction of inclusion very near the physically possible maximum value as well as for high-contrast composite constituents. The results are confirmed by comparison with known numerical and asymptotic results.
Can cocoa agroforestry restore degraded soil structure following conversion from forest to agricultural use?
Authors: Saputra Danny Dwi , Sari Rika Ratna , Hairiah Kurniatun , Roshetko James M. , Suprayogo Didik , van Noordwijk Meine
Published: September 2020

Alternating degradation and restoration phases of soil quality, as is common in crop-fallow systems, can be avoided if the restorative elements of trees and forests can be integrated into productive agroforestry systems. However, evidence for the hypothesis of ‘internal restoration’ in agroforestry is patchy and the effectiveness may depend on local context. We investigated to what extent cocoa (Theobroma cacao, L.) agroforestry can recover soil structure and infiltration in comparison to monoculture systems across the Konaweha Watershed, Southeast Sulawesi. We compared soil organic carbon, fine root length and weight, soil aggregate stability, macroporosity and infiltration from three soil layers at five land use systems: i.e. degraded forests, 9–14 years old of complex-cocoa agroforestry, simple-cocoa agroforestry, monoculture cocoa and 1–4 years old annual food crops, all with three replications. In general, roots were concentrated in the upper 40 cm of soil depth, contained of 70% and 86% of total fine root length and weight. Compared to simple agroforestry and cocoa monoculture, complex agroforestry had greater root length and weight in the topsoil, even though it attained only half the values found in degraded forests. Higher root density was positively correlated to soil organic carbon. In upper soil layers, complex agroforestry had slightly higher soil aggregate stability compared to other agricultural systems. However, no significant difference was found in deeper layers. Complex agroforestry had higher soil macroporosity than other agricultural systems, but not sufficient to mimic forests. Degraded forests had two times faster steady-state soil infiltration than agricultural systems tested (13.2 cm h−1 and 6 cm h−1, respectively), relevant during peak rainfall events. Compared to other agricultural systems, complex agroforestry improves soil structure of degraded soil resulting from forest conversion. However, a considerable gap remains with forest soil conditions.
Infrastructuring Public Consultation in Town Planning— How Town Planners Translate Public Consultation into a Socio-Technical Support System
Authors: Weise Sebastian , Chiasson Mike
Published: September 2020

For public consultation in town planning, town planners can employ various software systems to improve the dialogue with citizens. This article looks at attempts to do so by following the work of a team of municipal town planners across four stages of public consultation held between 2012 and 2015. The study is based on detailed semi-structured interviews, field notes from regular visits to the planners’ office, and a database of public consultation comments and attendance at consultation events across the stages. Using an approach that considers planners’ work in the selection and implementation of software within institutional objectives and constraints as “infrastructure” work, we examine the joint deployment, use and effects of nine software tools and arising practices for public consultations. Our findings demonstrate how the infrastructure work of planners involved numerous interpretations about the possibilities for software adaptation and the effects of software use, which were enabled and constrained by consultation and planning requirements. The results also indicate a role for researchers in helping planners mediate between formal processes and public concerns, and illustrates how this technological-institutional struggle in infrastructuring work forms an essential part of town planners’ practice.
Contact tracing apps: an ethical roadmap
Authors: Lanzing Marjolein
Published: September 2020

This research statement presents a roadmap for the ethical evaluation of contact tracing apps. Assuming the possible development of an effective and secure contact tracing app, this roadmap explores three ethical concerns—privacy, data monopolists and coercion- based on three scenarios. The first scenario envisions and critically evaluates an app that is built on the conceptualization of privacy as anonymity and a mere individual right rather than a social value. The second scenario sketches and critically discusses an app that adequately addresses privacy concerns but is facilitated by data monopolists such as Google and Apple. The final scenario discusses the coerced installation and use of a privacy-friendly, independently developed contact tracing app. The main worry is coercion through societal exclusion and limited societal participation. The statement concludes with three suggestions for designing an ethical contact tracing app and a research agenda.
Adult literacy classes in Timor-Leste and diverse language values and practices across the regions: implications for language policy-making
Authors: Boon Danielle , da Conceição Savio Edegar , Kroon Sjaak , Kurvers Jeanne
Published: September 2020

This article draws on two studies of language diversity and adult literacy education in Timor-Leste that were conducted in different regions of the country between 2009 and 2013. Its central focus is on the day-to-day language practices and language values of local participants and the way in which these practices and values relate to national language policies. We first outline the views of language and of language policy-making that underpin our article. We then provide a brief overview of language-in-education policy-making in Timor-Leste with respect to provision for adult literacy. After that, we describe the design and conduct of the two studies and we present selected findings, drawing on both quantitative and qualitative data sources. The quantitative data were generated by means of questionnaire-based interviews and the research participants’ own accounts of their language repertoires, practices and values. The qualitative data were gathered via: (1) observation of adult literacy classes; (2) analysis of photographs of signage in local linguistic landscapes. We conclude with a discussion of the implications of our findings for language-in-education policy development in the area of adult literacy provision in countries in the global south, such as Timor-Leste. Here we plead for a greater involvement of teachers and learners as actors, not mere bystanders, who can bring new voices into policy-making processes and into research into these processes.
Developing dimensions for a new preference-based quality of life instrument for older people receiving aged care services in the community
Authors: Cleland Jenny , Hutchinson Claire , McBain Candice , Walker Ruth , Milte Rachel , Khadka Jyoti , Ratcliffe Julie
Published: September 2020

Purpose

To identify the salient quality of life characteristics relevant to older people in receipt of community aged care services in order to develop dimensions for a draft descriptive system for a new preference-based quality of life instrument.

Methods

Forty-one in-depth semi-structured interviews were undertaken with older people (65 years and over) receiving community aged care services across three Australian states to explore quality of life characteristics of importance to them. The data were analysed using framework analysis to extract broader themes which were organised into a conceptual framework. The data were then summarised into a thematic chart to develop a framework matrix which was used to interpret and synthesise the data. Care was taken throughout to retain the language that older people had adopted during the interviews to ensure that appropriate language was used when identifying and developing the quality of life dimensions.

Results

The analysis resulted in the identification of five salient quality of life dimensions: independence, social connections, emotional well-being, mobility, and activities.

Conclusion

This research finds that quality of life for older people accessing aged care services goes beyond health-related quality of life and incorporates broader aspects that transcend health. The findings represent the first stage in a multiphase project working in partnership with older people to develop a new preference-based instrument of quality of life for informing quality assessment and economic evaluation in community aged care. In future work, draft items will be developed from these dimensions and tested in face validity interviews before progressing to further psychometric testing.
Death is common, so is understanding it: the concept of death in other species
Authors: Monsó Susana , Osuna-Mascaró Antonio J.
Published: September 2020

Comparative thanatologists study the responses to the dead and the dying in nonhuman animals. Despite the wide variety of thanatological behaviours that have been documented in several different species, comparative thanatologists assume that the concept of death (CoD) is very difficult to acquire and will be a rare cognitive feat once we move past the human species. In this paper, we argue that this assumption is based on two forms of anthropocentrism: (1) an intellectual anthropocentrism, which leads to an over-intellectualisation of the CoD, and (2) an emotional anthropocentrism, which yields an excessive focus on grief as a reaction to death. Contrary to what these two forms of anthropocentrism suggest, we argue that the CoD requires relatively little cognitive complexity and that it can emerge independently from mourning behaviour. Moreover, if we turn towards the natural world, we can see that the minimal cognitive requirements for a CoD are in fact met by many nonhuman species and there are multiple learning pathways and opportunities for animals in the wild to develop a CoD. This allows us to conclude that the CoD will be relatively easy to acquire and, so, we can expect it to be fairly common in nature.
Ochratoxin A affects oocyte maturation and subsequent embryo developmental dynamics in the juvenile sheep model
Authors: Dell’Aquila Maria Elena , Asif Shafaq , Temerario Letizia , Mastrorocco Antonella , Marzano Giuseppina , Martino Nicola Antonio , Lacalandra Giovanni Michele , Roelen Bernard AJ , Carluccio Augusto , Robbe Domenico , Minervini Fiorenza
Published: September 2020

The genotoxic and nephrotoxic mycotoxin Ochratoxin A (OTA) has also been reported to have adverse effects on oocyte maturation and embryo development. Previous studies on the effects of OTA on female fertility have used micromolar concentrations, but no information is available to date on effects in a more relevant nanomolar range. This study used a juvenile sheep model to evaluate the effects of oocyte exposure to low levels of OTA on maturation, fertilization, and embryo development. Further, it was investigated whether different mechanisms of action of OTA could be responsible for varying toxic effects at different levels of exposure. Cumulus-oocyte-complexes (COCs) were exposed to 10 μmol/L–0.1 nmol/L OTA during in vitro maturation and evaluated for cumulus viability, oocyte maturation, and bioenergetic/oxidative status. COCs were subjected to in vitro fertilization, embryo culture, and embryo quality assessment via morphology, viability, bioenergetic/oxidative status, and time-lapse monitoring. At micromolar concentrations, OTA induced cytotoxic effects, by reducing cumulus expansion and oocyte maturation. OTA altered temporospatial dynamics of zygote pronuclear formation and embryo morphokinetics. Blastocysts, even morphologically normal, were found to undergo collapse events, which were probably related to boosted blastocyst mitochondrial activity. At nanomolar concentrations, OTA did not affect COC morpho-functional parameters, but impaired oocyte ability to prevent polyspermy and increased blastocyst apoptosis. In conclusion, in the female germ cell, cytotoxic nonspecific effects characterize OTA-induced toxicity at high exposure levels, whereas fine tuning-mode effects, not associated with altered cell viability and integrity, characterize OTA toxic action at low levels.