bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gestational diabetes prevention and treatment: a protocol for developing core outcome sets
Authors: Egan Aoife Maria , Dunne Fidelma P , Biesty Linda M , Bogdanet Delia , Crowther Caroline , Dempsey Eugene , Thangaratinam Shakila , Devane Declan , Fhelelboom Narjes
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Selective reporting bias, inconsistency in the chosen outcomes between trials and irrelevance of the chosen outcomes for women, limit the efficiency and value of research for prevention and treatment of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). One way to address these challenges is to develop core outcome sets (COSs).

Methods and analysis

The aim of this manuscript is to present a protocol for a study to develop COSs for GDM prevention and treatment. This is a three-phase project consisting of (1) a systematic review of the literature to create two lists of outcomes that have been reported in trials and systematic reviews of trials of interventions for the prevention and treatment of GDM, (2) a three-round, web-based e-Delphi survey with key stakeholders to prioritise these outcomes and (3) a consensus meeting to resolve any remaining disagreements and to agree on two COSs.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval to conduct this study was obtained from the ethics committee at Galway University Hospitals on 13 December 2018 (Reference: C.A.2078). We will disseminate our research findings through peer-reviewed, open access publications and present at international conferences to reach a wide range of knowledge users.
Do autistic patients change healthcare services utilisation through the transition age? An Italian longitudinal retrospective study
Authors: Tunesi Sara , Bosio Marco , Russo Antonio Giampiero
Published: November 2019

Objectives

This paper aims to provide an estimate of the prevalence rate of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in 8-year-olds in 2017 based on administrative databases and to investigate the change in healthcare service use during the healthcare transition age of 18.

Design

This research is based on a longitudinal retrospective cohort study.

Setting

The data is drawn from the Italian Administrative Healthcare Database (2010–2017).

Participants

We identified 5607 ASD patients; 331 ASD patients from 2012 to 2015 in the calendar year of their 18th birthday were selected and their health service utilisation during a 5-year period—ranging from 2 years preceding and succeeding their 18th year—were investigated.

Interventions

None.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Prevalence, incidence and proportion of ASD patients receiving specific healthcare services were included in the outcome measures.

Results

Prevalence of ASD at age 8 was 5.4/1000. Global access to health and social services was lower both before and after age 18 (46.5% at 16; 68.0% at 18; 54.1% at 20). The percentage of patients receiving a neuropsychiatric consultation decreased after age 18 (30.8% at 18; 5.4% at 20). Community mental health services (CMHS) utilisation rate increased above 18 years of age. Regarding psychiatric visits, for both outpatient and CMHS, an increase was observed from 17.8% at age 18 to 25.4% at age 20. The utilisation of rehabilitation services decreased with age, dropping from 17.8% at age 16 to 1.8% at age 20. Psychiatric outpatient services remained stable across ages at about 14%.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that ASD patients changed clinical reference services with age from neuropsychiatric and rehabilitative services towards psychiatric and community-based services as they transitioned from paediatric to adult healthcare services.
Pneumococcal pneumonia and carriage in Africa before and after introduction of pneumococcal conjugate vaccines, 2000–2019: protocol for systematic review
Authors: Kalata Newton L. , Nyazika Tinashe K. , Swarthout Todd D. , Everett Dean , French Neil , Heyderman Robert S. , Gordon Stephen B. , Jambo Kondwani C.
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Africa harbours a high burden of pneumococcal disease, with associated high mortality rates. Despite 34 countries introducing the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, which reduces the risk of pneumococcal carriage (a prerequisite for disease) of some of the most pathogenic pneumococcal serotypes, it remains uncertain whether they will achieve the sustained direct or indirect protection necessary to reduce pneumococcal carriage to levels sufficient to interrupt transmission and disease. We will therefore summarise the available data on the impact of the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine in reducing vaccine serotype carriage and pneumococcal pneumonia in Africa between 2000 and 2019.

Methods and analysis

Using a predetermined search strategy, we will conduct a comprehensive search of PubMed, MEDLINE database, the Excerpta Medica Database, the ISI Web of Science (Science Citation Index), Scopus and the African Index Medicus to identify published studies reporting the prevalence ofStreptococcus pneumoniaecarriage (vaccine type and non-vaccine type), incidence rates of pneumococcal pneumonia and mortality among children, adults and HIV-infected (all-ages) pre-pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) and post-PCV introduction (published between 1st January 2000 and 31st December 2019) in African countries that have introduced PCVs (PCV7/PCV10/PCV13) in their routine national immunisation programme. The studies retained and data extracted will be assessed for bias using prevalidated tools and checklists. Heterogeneity across studies will be assessed using the χ2test on Cochrane Q statistic. A random effect meta-analysis will be used to estimate the overall prevalence of pneumococcal carriage and incidence of pneumococcal pneumonia across studies with similar characteristics. Results will be reported in compliance with the Meta-Analysis Of Observational Studies in Epidemiology guidelines. The protocol has been prepared in accordance to the 2015 guidelines on Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses.

Ethics and dissemination

This systematic review will not require ethical approval as we will be using already published data. The final manuscript will be submitted for publication in a peer-reviewed journal and presented at conferences.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42019130976.
Global Outcome Assessment Life-long after stroke in young adults initiative—the GOAL initiative: study protocol and rationale of a multicentre retrospective individual patient data meta-analysis
Authors: Ekker Merel S , Jacob Mina A , van Dongen Myrna ME , Aarnio Karoliina , Annamalai Arunkar K , Arauz Antonio , Arnold Marcel , Barboza Miguel A , Bolognese Manuel , Brouns Raf , Chuluun Batnairamdal , Chuluunbaatar Enkhzaya , Dagvajantsan Byambasuren , Debette Stephanie , Don Adi , Enzinger Chris , Ekizoglu Esme , Fandler-Höfler Simon , Fazekas Franz , Fromm Anette , Gattringer Thomas , Gulli Giosue , Hoffmann Michael , Hora Thiago F , Jern Christina , Jood Katarina , Kamouchi Masahiro , Kim Young Seo , Kitazono Takanari , Kittner Steven J , Kleinig Timothy J , Klijn Catharina JM , Korv Janika , Lee Tsong-Hai , Leys Didier , Maaijwee Noortje AM , Martinez-Majander Nicolas , Marto João Pedro , Mehndiratta Man M , Mifsud Victoria , Montanaro Vinicius V , Owolabi Mayowa O , Patel Vinod B , Phillips Matthew C , Piechowski-Jozwiak Bartlomiej , Pikula Aleksandra , Ruiz-Sandoval Jose Luis , Sarnowski Bettina , Schreuder Floris HBM , Swartz Rick H , Tan KS , Tanne David , Tatlisumak T , Thijs Vincent , Tuladhar Anil M , Viana-Baptista Miguel , Vibo Riina , Wu Teddy Y , Yesilot Nilüfer , Waje-Andreassen Ulrike , Pezzini Alessandro , Putaala Jukka , de Leeuw Frank‐Erik
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Worldwide, 2 million patients aged 18–50 years suffer a stroke each year, and this number is increasing. Knowledge about global distribution of risk factors and aetiologies, and information about prognosis and optimal secondary prevention in young stroke patients are limited. This limits evidence-based treatment and hampers the provision of appropriate information regarding the causes of stroke, risk factors and prognosis of young stroke patients.

Methods and analysis

The Global Outcome Assessment Life-long after stroke in young adults (GOAL) initiative aims to perform a global individual patient data meta-analysis with existing data from young stroke cohorts worldwide. All patients aged 18–50 years with ischaemic stroke or intracerebral haemorrhage will be included. Outcomes will be the distribution of stroke aetiology and (vascular) risk factors, functional outcome after stroke, risk of recurrent vascular events and death and finally the use of secondary prevention. Subgroup analyses will be made based on age, gender, aetiology, ethnicity and climate of residence.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval for the GOAL study has already been obtained from the Medical Review Ethics Committee region Arnhem-Nijmegen. Additionally and when necessary, approval will also be obtained from national or local institutional review boards in the participating centres. When needed, a standardised data transfer agreement will be provided for participating centres. We plan dissemination of our results in peer-reviewed international scientific journals and through conference presentations. We expect that the results of this unique study will lead to better understanding of worldwide differences in risk factors, causes and outcome of young stroke patients.
Effectiveness of different recruitment strategies in an RCT of a surgical device: experience from the Endobarrier trial
Authors: Ruban Aruchuna , Prechtl Christina Gabriele , Glaysher Michael Alan , Chhina Navpreet , Al-Najim Werd , Miras Alexander Dimitri , Smith Claire , P Goldstone Anthony , Patel Mayank , Moore Michael , Ashrafian Hutan , Byrne James P , Teare Julian P
Published: November 2019

Recruiting participants into clinical trials is notoriously difficult and poses the greatest challenge when planning any investigative study. Poor recruitment may not only have financial ramifications owing to increased time and resources being spent but could adversely influence the clinical impact of a study if it becomes underpowered. Herein, we present our own experience of recruiting into a nationally funded, multicentre, randomised controlled trial (RCT) of the Endobarrier versus standard medical therapy in obese patients with type 2diabetes. Despite these both being highly prevalent conditions, there were considerable barriers to the effectiveness of different recruitment strategies across each study site. Although recruitment from primary care proved extremely successful at one study site, this largely failed at another site prompting the implementation of multimodal recruitment strategies including a successful media campaign to ensure sufficient participants were enrolled and the study was adequately powered. From this experience, we propose where appropriate the early engagement and investment in media campaigns to enhance recruitment into clinical trials. Trial Registration:ISRCTN30845205.
Evaluating the role of paternal factors in aetiology and prognosis of recurrent pregnancy loss: study protocol for a hospital-based multicentre case–control study and cohort study (REMI III project)
Authors: du Fossé Nadia , van der Hoorn Marie-Louise , Eikmans Michael , Heidt Sebastiaan , le Cessie Saskia , Mulders Annemarie , van Lith Jan , Lashley Eileen
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) is defined as the spontaneous demise of two or more pregnancies before the fetus reaches viability. Despite investigation of multiple known maternal risk factors, in more than 50% of couples, this condition remains unexplained. Studies focusing on paternal factors in RPL are scarce, and therefore, paternal evaluation in RPL is currently very limited. However, regarding single miscarriage, there are multiple publications suggesting a contributive role of paternal factors. In this project, we aim to identify paternal factors associated with RPL and to improve couple-specific prediction of future pregnancy outcomes by developing a prediction model containing both maternal and paternal factors.

Methods and analysis

In a case–control design, the relation between unexplained RPL and paternal age, lifestyle factors, sperm DNA damage and immunomodulatory factors in peripheral blood and semen will be studied. Prospectively, 135 couples with naturally conceived unexplained RPL (cases) and 135 fertile couples without a history of pregnancy loss (controls) will be included, with collection of paternal blood and semen samples and documentation of clinical and lifestyle characteristics. In addition, 600 couples from both groups will be included retrospectively. To adjust for confounders, multivariate logistic regression will be used. The predictive value of paternal and maternal factors will be studied in the total RPL cohort consisting of approximately 735 couples. The primary outcome of the cohort study is live birth within 5 years after initial visit of the clinic. Secondary outcomes are ongoing pregnancy, time interval until next pregnancy and pregnancy complications.

Ethics and dissemination

This project is approved by the Medical Research Ethics Committee of the Leiden University Medical Center. No risks or burden are expected from the study. The findings of this study will be disseminated via peer-reviewed publications and presentations at international conferences.

Trial registration number

NL7762
Evaluation of the Choosing Wisely Australia 5 Questions resource and a shared decision-making preparation video: protocol for an online experiment
Authors: Muscat Danielle Marie , Chang Edward Hoi-fan , Thompson Rachel , Cvejic Erin , Tracy Marguerite , Zadro Joshua , Smith Jessica Kathleen , Lindner Robyn , McCaffery Kirsten
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Choosing Wisely, an international effort to reduce low value care worldwide, considers communication between clinicians and patients during routine clinical encounters a key mechanism for change. In Australia, Choosing Wisely has developed a 5 Questions resource to facilitate better conversations. The primary aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of the Choosing Wisely Australia 5 Questions resource and a video designed to prepare patients for question-asking and participation in shared decision-making on (a) self-efficacy to ask questions and participate in shared decision-making, (b) intention to participate in shared decision-making and (c) a range of secondary outcomes. The secondary aim of this study is to determine whether participants’ health literacy modifies the effects of the interventions.

Methods and analysis

We will use 2×2×2 between-subjects factorial design (preparation video: yes, no × Choosing Wisely 5 Questions resource: yes, no × health literacy: adequate, inadequate). Participants will be recruited by an online market research company, presented with a hypothetical non-specific low back pain scenario, and randomised to study groups stratified by health literacy. Quantitative primary and secondary outcome data will be analysed as intention-to-treat using appropriate regression models (ie, linear regression for continuous outcomes, logistic regression for dichotomous categorical outcomes).

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval for this study was obtained from the University of Sydney Human Research Ethics Committee (protocol number: 2018/965). The results from this work will be disseminated through peer-reviewed international journals, conferences and updates with collaborating public health bodies. Resources developed for this study will be made available to patients and clinicians following trial completion.

Trial registration number

This trial has been registered with the Australia New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (trial number: 376477) and the stage is Pre-results.
The social cure of social prescribing: a mixed-methods study on the benefits of social connectedness on quality and effectiveness of care provision
Authors: Kellezi Blerina , Wakefield Juliet Ruth Helen , Stevenson Clifford , McNamara Niamh , Mair Elizabeth , Bowe Mhairi , Wilson Iain , Halder Moon Moon
Published: November 2019

Objectives

This study aimed to assess the degree to which the ‘social cure’ model of psychosocial health captures the understandings and experiences of healthcare staff and patients in a social prescribing (SP) pathway and the degree to which these psychosocial processes predict the effect of the pathway on healthcare usage.

Design

Mixed-methods: Study 1: semistructured interviews; study 2: longitudinal survey.

Setting

An English SP pathway delivered between 2017 and 2019.

Participants

Study 1: general practitioners (GPs) (n=7), healthcare providers (n=9) and service users (n=19). Study 2: 630 patients engaging with SP pathway at a 4-month follow-up after initial referral assessment.

Intervention

Chronically ill patients experiencing loneliness referred onto SP pathway and meeting with a health coach and/or link worker, with possible further referral to existing or newly created relevant third-sector groups.

Main outcome measure

Study 1: health providers and users’ qualitative perspectives on the experience of the pathway and social determinants of health. Study 2: patients’ primary care usage.

Results

Healthcare providers recognised the importance of social factors in determining patient well-being, and reason for presentation at primary care. They viewed SP as a potentially effective solution to such problems. Patients valued the different social relationships they created through the SP pathway, including those with link workers, groups and community. Group memberships quantitatively predicted primary care usage, and this was mediated by increases in community belonging and reduced loneliness.

Conclusions

Methodological triangulation offers robust conclusions that ‘social cure’ processes explain the efficacy of SP, which can reduce primary care usage through increasing social connectedness (group membership and community belonging) and reducing loneliness. Recommendations for integrating social cure processes into SP initiatives are discussed.
Hepatitis E virus replication in human intestinal cells
Authors: Marion Olivier , Lhomme Sebastien , Nayrac Manon , Dubois Martine , Pucelle Mélanie , Requena Mary , Migueres Marion , Abravanel Florence , Peron Jean Marie , Carrere Nicolas , Suc Bertrand , Delobel Pierre , Kamar Nassim , Izopet Jacques
Published: November 2019

Objective

Hepatitis E virus (HEV), one of the most common agent of acute hepatitis worldwide, is mainly transmitted enterically, via contaminated water for HEV genotypes 1 (HEV1) and HEV2, or by eating raw or undercooked infected meat for HEV genotype 3 (HEV3) and HEV4. However, little is known about how the ingested HEV reaches the liver or its ability to replicate in intestinal cells.

Design

We developed human primary cultures of small intestine epithelial cells and intestinal explants obtained from small bowel resections. The epithelial cells were also polarised on transwells. Cells were infected with Kernow-p6 strain or clinically derived virions.

Results

Primary intestinal cells supported the growth of Kernow-p6 strain and HEV1 and HEV3 clinically derived virions. Polarised enterocytes infected with HEV1 and HEV3 strains released HEV particles vectorially: mostly into the apical compartment with a little basally. Iodixanol density gradient centrifugation of enterocyte-derived HEV virions gave bands at a density of 1.06–1.08 g/cm3, corresponding to that of quasi-enveloped HEV particles. Ribavirin therapy inhibited HEV excretion from the basal surface but not from the apical side of infected human enterocytes. HEV virions also infected intestinal tissue explants. Lastly, HEV RNA and antigen were detected in the intestinal crypts of a chronically infected patient.

Conclusion

HEV can replicate in intestinal cells and reaches the liver as quasi-enveloped virions.
The nature and origin of furrows in lake-bed sediments: Okanagan Lake, British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Nowak Raphael , Bauer Bernard O. , Siddiqua Sumi
Published: November 2019

Recent sonar surveys of Okanagan Lake, in the central interior of British Columbia, revealed the presence of linear, contour-parallel furrows at depths of 50–130 m. Underwater video imagery shows these furrows to be approximately 0.5–1 m wide by 0.5–1 m deep with variable lengths extending 1–100 m. Their cross-sectional topology varies from semi-rectangular features with steep-walled sides that expose weak laminations in the sediments to shallow U-shaped troughs that appear to be infilled by lacustrine mud. The most likely origin of the furrows is extension deformation (i.e., tension fracturing) caused by periodic failure along the steeply inclined marginal slopes of this deep, glaciated lake basin. A positive feedback mechanism leading to arrested downslope movement, based on the recent findings reported in Carey et al. (2019), is suggested to apply. Less likely alternative explanations are considered and dismissed. The furrows highlight the nature of long-term geomorphic processes in lacustrine environments that contribute to sediment transport and deposition on the lake bed but are not directly linked to the action of surface waves and currents.
Curvature invariants and lower dimensional black hole horizons
Authors: Gregoris Daniele , Ong Yen Chin , Wang Bin
Published: November 2019

It is known that the event horizon of a black hole can often be identified from the zeroes of some curvature invariants. The situation in lower dimensions has not been thoroughly clarified. In this work we investigate both ($$2+1$$2+1)- and ($$1+1$$1+1)-dimensional black hole horizons of static, stationary and dynamical black holes, identified with the zeroes of scalar polynomial and Cartan curvature invariants, with the purpose of discriminating the different roles played by the Weyl and Riemann curvature tensors. The situations and applicability of the methods are found to be quite different from that in 4-dimensional spacetime. The suitable Cartan invariants employed for detecting the horizon can be interpreted as a local extremum of the tidal force suggesting that the horizon of a black hole is a genuine special hypersurface within the full manifold, contrary to the usual claim that there is nothing special at the horizon, which is said to be a consequence of the equivalence principle.
Cosmological aspects of sound speed parameterizations in fractal universe
Authors: Jawad Abdul , Butt Sadaf , Rani Shamaila , Asif Khadija
Published: November 2019

In the framework of fractal universe, the unified models of dark energy and dark matter are being presented with the background of homogenous and isotropic FLRW geometry. The aspects of fractal cosmology helps in better understanding of the universe in different dimensions. Relationship between the squared speed of the sound and the equation of state parameter is the key feature of these models. We have used constant as well as variable forms of speed of sound and express it as a function of equation of state parameter. By utilizing the four different forms of speed of sound, we construct the energy densities and pressures for these models and then various cosmological parameters like hubble parameter, EoS parameter, deceleration parameter andOm- diagnostic are investigated. Graphical analysis of these parameters show that in most of the cases EoS parameters and trajectories ofOm-diagnostic corresponds to the quintessence like nature of the universe and the deceleration parameters represent accelerated and decelerated phase. In the end, we remark that cosmological analysis of these models indicates that these models correspond to different well known dark energy models.
Multilevel approximation of Gaussian random fields: Fast simulation
Authors: Herrmann Lukas , Kirchner Kristin , Schwab Christoph
Published: November 2019

We propose and analyze several multilevel algorithms for the fast simulation of possibly nonstationary Gaussian random fields (GRFs) indexed, for example, by the closure of a bounded domain [Formula: see text] or, more generally, by a compact metric space [Formula: see text] such as a compact [Formula: see text]-manifold [Formula: see text]. A colored GRF [Formula: see text], admissible for our algorithms, solves the stochastic fractional-order equation [Formula: see text] for some [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is a linear, local, second-order elliptic self-adjoint differential operator in divergence form and [Formula: see text] is white noise on [Formula: see text]. We thus consider GRFs on [Formula: see text] with covariance operators of the form [Formula: see text]. The proposed algorithms numerically approximate samples of [Formula: see text] on nested sequences [Formula: see text] of regular, simplicial partitions [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], respectively. Work and memory to compute one approximate realization of the GRF [Formula: see text] on the triangulation [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text] with consistency [Formula: see text], for some consistency order [Formula: see text], scale essentially linearly in [Formula: see text], independent of the possibly low regularity of the GRF. The algorithms are based on a sinc quadrature for an integral representation of (the application of) the negative fractional-order elliptic “coloring” operator [Formula: see text] to white noise [Formula: see text]. For the proposed numerical approximation, we prove bounds of the computational cost and the consistency error in various norms.
Representations of the modular group arising from Drinfeld doubles of finite abelian groups
Authors: Naidu Deepak
Published: November 2019

We show that the image of the representation of the modular group [Formula: see text] arising from the representation category [Formula: see text] of the Drinfeld double [Formula: see text] of a finite abelian group [Formula: see text] of exponent [Formula: see text] is isomorphic to the special linear group [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] denotes the ring of integers modulo [Formula: see text]. As a consequence, we establish that the kernel of the representation in question is the principal congruence subgroup of level [Formula: see text].
On the possible decompositions of totally decomposable orthogonal involutions in characteristic two
Authors: Nokhodkar A.-H.
Published: November 2019

In characteristic two, we determine all possible total decompositions of a totally decomposable algebra with orthogonal involution into tensor products of quaternion algebras with involution.
Photodynamic activity of 2,6-diiodo-3,5-dithienylvinyleneBODIPYs and their folate-functionalized chitosan-coated Pluronic® F-127 micelles on MCF-7 breast cancer cells
Authors: Molupe Nthabeleng , Babu Balaji , Oluwole David O. , Prinsloo Earl , Gai Lizhi , Shen Zhen , Mack John , Nyokong Tebello
Published: November 2019

A 2,6-diiodo-3,5-dithienylvinyleneBODIPY dye was prepared and encapsulated with folate-chitosan capped Pluronic[Formula: see text] F-127 to provide drug delivery systems for photodynamic therapy (PDT). Moderately enhanced singlet oxygen quantum yields were observed for the dye encapsulation complexes in water. The in vitro dark cytotoxicity and photodynamic activity were investigated on the human breast adenocarcinoma (MCF-7) cell line. Minimal dark cytotoxicity was observed for the BODIPY dyes in 5% DMSO and when encapsulated in folate-functionalized chitosan-coated Pluronic[Formula: see text] F-127 micelles, since the cell viability values are consistently greater than 80% over the 0-40 [Formula: see text] concentration range. Upon irradiation of the samples, significant cytocidal activity was observed for the encapsulation complex of a 2,6-diiodo-8-dimethylaminophenyl-3,5-dithienylvinyleneBODIPY dye with less than 50% viable cells observed at concentrations [Formula: see text].
Synthesis of highly water soluble tetrabenzoporphyrins and their application toward photodynamic therapy
Authors: Moss Austen , Zhou Zehua , Jiang Lin , Vicente M. Graça H. , Wang Hong
Published: November 2019

Novel tetraaryl-(pyridinium-4-yl)-tetrabenzoporphyrins have been successfully synthesized via a Heck-based sequence reaction. These tetrabenzoporphyrins were substituted with eight pyridyl groups at the fused benzene rings. Methylation of the pyridyl groups with methyl iodide afforded highly water soluble tetrabenzoporphyrins carrying eight ionic groups. The extended [Formula: see text]-conjugation broadened and red-shifted the absorption band of these porphyrins to 650–750 nm. These cationic tetrabenzoporphyrins showed non-toxicity in the dark up to 100 uM. High phototoxicity with IC[Formula: see text] values lower than 18 [Formula: see text]M were obtained for these tetrabenzoporphyrins.
Variance of sums in arithmetic progressions of divisor functions associated with higher degree L-functions in 𝔽q[t]
Authors: Roditty-Gershon Edva , Hall Chris , Keating Jonathan P.
Published: November 2019

We compute the variances of sums in arithmetic progressions of generalized [Formula: see text]-divisor functions related to certain [Formula: see text]-functions in [Formula: see text], in the limit as [Formula: see text]. This is achieved by making use of recently established equidistribution results for the associated Frobenius conjugacy classes. The variances are thus expressed, when [Formula: see text], in terms of matrix integrals, which may be evaluated. Our results extend those obtained previously in the special case corresponding to the usual [Formula: see text]-divisor function, when the [Formula: see text]-function in question has degree one. They illustrate the role played by the degree of the [Formula: see text]-functions; in particular, we find qualitatively new behavior when the degree exceeds one. Our calculations apply, for example, to elliptic curves defined over [Formula: see text], and we illustrate them by examining in some detail the generalized [Formula: see text]-divisor functions associated with the Legendre curve.
Distribution of uranium and heavy metals in pore water and sediment profile of the Mianyuan River near a phosphate mining region
Authors: Hou Yun , Shi Zeming , Ni Shijun , Wang Xinyu , Li Yunzhen , Lin Qing
Published: November 2019

To clarify the mechanism controlling the migration of uranium and typical heavy metals at the sediment–water interface, four sampling cores were collected along the Mianyuan River near a phosphate mining region to investigate their distribution in pore water and sediment along vertical profiles. This study indicated that: (1) the average concentrations of U, Cd, Cu, Pb, Zn and Ni in the pore water were 2.17, 0.08, 6.28, 1.78, 80.56 and 5.18 µg l
−1
, respectively, some of them being higher than the National Recommended Water Quality Criteria. (2) The enrichment of U, Cu, Pb, Zn and Ni in the sediment near the urban area clearly indicated that local industries were important pollution sources. (3) The average diffusive fluxes of U, Cd, Cu, Pb, Zn and Ni of the four profiles were 0.016, 0.007, 0.300, 0.022, 2.925 and −1.328 µg/(m
2
·d), indicating that most of the metals diffused from the sediment pore water to the overlying water. (4) The IWCTU (Interstitial Water Criteria Toxic Units) values of Pb in the pore water exceeded 1 in most river sections, indicating that the toxicity levels in the sediments presented a risk to aquatic organisms.
An Evidence-Based Framework for Supporting the Engineering of IoT Software Systems
Authors: Motta Rebeca C.
Published: November 2019

Internet of Things represents a promising paradigm for the development of systems that have been largely explored in the academy and industry. One of the recognized features of IoT is its large multidisciplinarity by the integration of different devices and technologies. However, the studies presented in literature have sought to explore particular issues not addressing the IoT multidisciplinary as a whole. We argue that to better support the development of these systems, it is essential to have a more holistic view of their engineering. To that end, we propose to de-velop a framework to provide guidance for engineering IoT software systems considering its characteristics and multidisciplinarity. The research follows a (1) Conceptual Phase with a set of studies conducted to present the proposed technology foundations; (2) Development Phase that aims to operationalize and (3) Evaluation Phase that aims its assessment in real cases. In this way, the framework is developed based on evidence collected both from literature and real case scenarios from the practice. Keywords: Internet of Things; Software Development, Empirical Software Engineering.
Security by Design in Software Engineering
Authors: Kreitz Mark
Published: November 2019

Security is a non-functional requirement difficult-to-handle during software development. However, it appears to be common in software engineering, that security is taken care of during the design- and test-phase only. If security is neglected during the implementation phase, flaws will be introduced. Those may be - if at all - found during testing where the cost-to-fix is higher as if found during the implementation phase. Hence, this research proposal suggests to investigate the extent to which code analysis tools can be used as a step towards continuous security inspection in software engineering projects. By automating security testing in development flaws can be found as soon as they are introduced. This could greatly reduce the cost to fix flaws and help building more secure software.
A report on 1st Software Engineering Research in India Update Meeting (SERI 2019)
Authors: Karre Sai Anirudh , Mohan Lalit , Raghu Reddy Y. Raghu , Raghavan K.V. , Naik R.D. , Purandare Rahul , Karkare Amey
Published: November 2019

Software Engineering Researchers in India from both academia and industry are widely contributing to various research problems. In this report, we brie y summarize the key insights from 1st Software Engineering Research in India Update Meeting (SERI 2019), which provides a platform for all the researchers to present and discuss their research work. The essence of this research meeting is to examine the current research areas within the software engineering research community and discover the scope of collaboration. Speci cally, the rst SERI update meeting had a series of invited research talks presented by researchers from academia and industry representing various software engineering labs across India. These talks unveiled notable views through presentations and group discussions, and cogitation of topics that can lead to fruitful collaborations between software engineering researchers and industry practitioners. The main objective of this update meeting is the exchange of research areas that promotes successful short-term and long-term collaborations.
Workshop Summary
Authors: Xie Xiaoyuan , Poon Pak-Lok , Pullum Laura L.
Published: November 2019

MET is a relatively new workshop on metamorphic testing for academic researchers and industry practitioners. The first international workshop on MET (MET 2016) was co-located with the 38th International Conference on Software Engineering (ICSE 2016) in Austin TX, USA on May 16, 2016. Since then the workshop has become an annual event. This paper reports on the fourth International Workshop on Metamorphic Testing (MET 2019) held in Montréal, Canada on May 26, 2019, as part of the 41st International Conference on Software Engineering (ICSE 2019). We first outline the aims of the workshop, followed by a discussion of its keynote speech and technical program.
A Systematic Survey on Cloud Forensics Challenges, Solutions, and Future Directions
Authors: Manral Bharat , Somani Gaurav , Choo Kim-Kwang Raymond , Conti Mauro , Gaur Manoj Singh
Published: November 2019

The challenges of cloud forensics have been well-documented by both researchers and government agencies (e.g., U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology), although many of the challenges remain unresolved. In this article, we perform a comprehensive survey of cloud forensic literature published between January 2007 and December 2018, categorized using a five-step forensic investigation process. We also present a taxonomy of existing cloud forensic solutions, with the aim of better informing both the research and practitioner communities, as well as an in-depth discussion of existing conventional digital forensic tools and cloud-specific forensic investigation tools. Based on the findings from the survey, we present a set of design guidelines to inform future cloud forensic investigation processes, and a summary of digital artifacts that can be obtained from different stakeholders in the cloud computing architecture/ecosystem.
Help Me to Help You
Authors: Wright Darryl E. , Fortson Lucy , Lintott Chris , Laraia Michael , Walmsley Mike
Published: November 2019

The increasing size of datasets with which researchers in a variety of domains are confronted has led to a range of creative responses, including the deployment of modern machine learning techniques and the advent of large scale “citizen science projects.” However, the ability of the latter to provide suitably large training sets for the former is stretched as the size of the problem (and competition for attention amongst projects) grows. We explore the application of unsupervised learning to leverage structure that exists in an initially unlabelled dataset. We simulate grouping similar points before presenting those groups to volunteers to label. Citizen science labelling of grouped data is more efficient, and the gathered labels can be used to improve efficiency further for labelling future data.

To demonstrate these ideas, we perform experiments using data from the Pan-STARRS Survey for Transients (PSST) with volunteer labels gathered by the Zooniverse project, Supernova Hunters and a simulated project using the MNIST handwritten digit dataset. Our results show that, in the best case, we might expect to reduce the required volunteer effort by 87.0% and 92.8% for the two datasets, respectively. These results illustrate a symbiotic relationship between machine learning and citizen scientists where each empowers the other with important implications for the design of citizen science projects in the future.
Faster Algorithms for Dynamic Algebraic Queries in Basic RSMs with Constant Treewidth
Authors: Chatterjee Krishnendu , Goharshady Amir Kafshdar , Goyal Prateesh , Ibsen-Jensen Rasmus , Pavlogiannis Andreas
Published: November 2019

Interprocedural analysis is at the heart of numerous applications in programming languages, such as alias analysis, constant propagation, and so on. Recursive state machines (RSMs) are standard models for interprocedural analysis. We consider a general framework with RSMs where the transitions are labeled from a semiring and path properties are algebraic with semiring operations. RSMs with algebraic path properties can model interprocedural dataflow analysis problems, the shortest path problem, the most probable path problem, and so on. The traditional algorithms for interprocedural analysis focus on path properties where the starting point is
fixed
as the entry point of a specific method. In this work, we consider possible multiple queries as required in many applications such as in alias analysis. The study of multiple queries allows us to bring in an important algorithmic distinction between the resource usage of the
one-time
preprocessing vs for
each individual
query. The second aspect we consider is that the control flow graphs for most programs have constant treewidth.

Our main contributions are simple and implementable algorithms that support multiple queries for algebraic path properties for RSMs that have constant treewidth. Our theoretical results show that our algorithms have small additional one-time preprocessing but can answer subsequent queries significantly faster as compared to the current algorithmic solutions for interprocedural dataflow analysis. We have also implemented our algorithms and evaluated their performance for performing on-demand interprocedural dataflow analysis on various domains, such as for live variable analysis and reaching definitions, on a standard benchmark set. Our experimental results align with our theoretical statements and show that after a lightweight preprocessing, on-demand queries are answered much faster than the standard existing algorithmic approaches.
Online Social Networks to Foster Long-Term Welfare
Authors: Chakraborty Abhijnan , Ganguly Niloy
Published: November 2019

The rise of Online Social Networks (OSNs) and their growing complexities have had dramatic effects in real life: due to their popularity and ubiquitous coverage, they are a major tool today to spread crucial news and vital information across remote areas of the world. Such increasing availability has unearthed a large volume of usergenerated content, consisting of user opinion as well as factual content that often does not appear in mainstream media, but captures the persistent attention of a huge section of the population.
Experimental Supplements from Mobile Tools for Cognitive Introspection Towards Cognitive Augmentation
Authors: Augereau Olivier , Kunze Kai , Kise Koichi
Published: November 2019

In an increasingly interconnected world with more and more technology surrounding us, more and more people end up with psychological and mental health issues. Mobile Computing technologies is often introduced into society without knowing about impact and consequences. We need new mobile tools for everyday life to better manage our attention and give us introspection into our cognitive self. There are patterns in human physiological signals (facial expressions, heart rate, nasal temperature, eye movements, blinking, etc.) that can reveal information about cognitive functions of individuals and groups.
Visualizing and quantifying the impact of reactive hyperemia on cutaneous microvessels in humans
Authors: Argarini Raden , Smith Kurt J. , Carter Howard H. , Naylor Louise H. , McLaughlin Robert A. , Green Daniel J.
Published: November 2019

The mechanisms underlying reactive hyperemia (RH) responses in microvessels are poorly understood. Previous assessment tools have not been capable of directly visualizing microvessels during physiological stimulation in humans. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is capable of imaging and quantifying subcutaneous microvessels as small as ~30 µm. In this study we use OCT to visualize and quantify skin microvascular changes in response to RH for the first time in humans. We also assessed the reproducibility of this technique. OCT and laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF) were used simultaneously to scan cutaneous microvessels in 10 young healthy subjects on 2 days. We applied a speckle decorrelation algorithm to assess OCT images and calculated flow rate, speed, diameter, and density parameters. Measures were obtained at rest (baseline) and 30-s following a 5-min cuff inflation (RH). All data were compared between days. The RH stimulus significantly increased ( P < 0.0001) OCT-derived microvascular diameter (37.6 ± 3.4 vs. 44.5 ± 5.2 µm), flow rate (82.4 ± 23.4 vs. 240.1 ± 58.6 pl/s), speed (48 ± 5.7 vs. 101.5 ± 17.1 µm/s), density (5.1 ± 1.7 vs. 14.6 ± 2.6%), and also LDF-derived flux (12.3 ± 5.7 vs. 31.6 ± 9.1 perfusion units). At baseline, OCT-derived diameter ( r = 0.55), flow rate ( r = 0.64), speed ( r = 0.55), and density ( r = 0.75) showed significant between-day correlations ( P < 0.05), as did LDF results ( r = 0.74). In response to RH, OCT-derived diameter ( r = 0.63) and density ( r = 0.64) showed significant correlations ( P < 0.05), whereas flow rate ( r = 0.45), speed ( r = 0.43), and LDF ( r = 0.26) were less reproducible. Our study is novel in that it establishes the feasibility of using OCT to visualize and quantify microvascular structure and function responses to RH in humans.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY This study describes the first evidence in humans that optical coherence tomography provides direct visualization and comprehensive quantification of cutaneous microvascular hemodynamics as a response to reactive hyperemia. This imaging technique will greatly improve human cutaneous microvascular assessment in physiological and clinical settings.
Effect of fatigue-related group III/IV afferent firing on intracortical inhibition and facilitation in hand muscles
Authors: Latella Christopher , van der Groen Onno , Ruas Cassio V. , Taylor Janet L.
Published: November 2019

Fatiguing exercise causes a reduction in motor drive to the muscle. Group III/IV muscle afferent firing is thought to contribute to this process; however, the effect on corticospinal and intracortical networks is poorly understood. In two experiments, participants performed sustained maximal isometric finger abductions of the first dorsal interosseous (FDI) muscle, with postexercise blood flow occlusion (OCC) to maintain the firing of group III/IV afferents or without occlusion (control; CON). Before and after exercise, single- and paired-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) tested motor evoked potentials (MEPs), intracortical facilitation [ICF (12 ms)], and short-interval intracortical inhibition [SICI2 (2 ms), SICI3 (3 ms)]. Ulnar nerve stimulation elicited maximal M waves (MMAX). For experiment 1 ( n = 16 participants), TMS intensities were 70% and 120% of resting motor threshold (RMT) for the conditioning and MEP stimuli, respectively. For experiment 2 ( n = 16 participants), the MEP was maintained at 1 mV before and after exercise and the conditioning stimulus individualized. In experiment 1, MEP/MMAX was reduced after exercise (~48%, P = 0.007) but was not different between conditions. No changes occurred in ICF or SICI. In experiment 2, MEP/MMAX increased (~27%, P = 0.027) and less inhibition (SICI2: ~21%, P = 0.021) occurred after exercise for both conditions, whereas ICF decreased for CON only (~28%, P = 0.006). MEPs and SICI2 were modulated by fatiguing contractions but not by group III/IV afferent firing, whereas sustained afferent firing appeared to counteract postexercise reductions in ICF in FDI. The findings do not support the idea that actions of group III/IV afferents on motor cortical networks contribute to the reduction in voluntary activation observed in other studies.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY This is the first study to investigate, in human hand muscles, the action of fatigue-related group III/IV muscle afferent firing on intracortical facilitation and inhibition. In fatigued and nonexercised hand muscles, intracortical inhibition is reduced after exercise but is not modulated differently by the firing of group III/IV afferents. However, facilitation is maintained for the fatigued muscle when group III/IV afferents fire, but these results are unlikely to explain the reduction in voluntary activation observed in other studies.