bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diagnostic criteria for idiopathic small fiber neuropathy: A systematic review
Authors: Haroutounian Simon , Todorovic Marko S. , Leinders Mathias , Campagnolo Marta , Gewandter Jennifer S. , Dworkin Robert H. , Freeman Roy
Published: September 2020

Idiopathic small fiber neuropathy (iSFN) lacks broadly accepted diagnostic criteria, which hinders its timely diagnosis and treatment. A systematic literature review was performed to assess the published screening and diagnostic criteria for iSFN, excluding studies where SFN was of well‐established etiology. Eighty‐four clinical studies and seven guideline/review publications were included in this systematic review. Substantial heterogeneity existed in iSFN diagnostic criteria. The most common set of criteria to diagnose iSFN [presence of any symptoms of iSFN, absence of large fiber involvement, and reduced intraepidermal nerve fiber density (IENFD)] was used in only 14% of studies. Mandatory individual criteria to confirm iSFN included any sensory symptoms (60% of studies), pain (19% of studies), small fiber signs (20% of studies), absence of large fiber signs (62% of studies), reduced IENFD (38% of studies), and autonomic symptoms (1% of studies). This review highlights a clear need for standardized, evidence‐based guidelines for diagnosing iSFN.
Model order reduction for delay systems by iterative interpolation
Authors: Alfke Dominik , Feng Lihong , Lombardi Luigi , Antonini Giulio , Benner Peter
Published: September 2020

Adaptive algorithms for computing the reduced‐order model of time‐delay systems (TDSs) are proposed in this work. The algorithms are based on interpolating the transfer function at multiple expansion points and greedy iterations for selecting the expansion points. The ‐error of the reduced transfer function is used as the criterion for choosing the next new expansion point. One heuristic greedy algorithm and one algorithm based on the error system and adaptive sub‐interval selection are developed. Results on four TDSs with tens of delays from electromagnetic applications are presented and show the efficiency of the proposed algorithms.
The effect of multiple exposures in scenario‐based simulation—A mixed study systematic review
Authors: Svellingen Alette H. , Søvik Margrethe B. , Røykenes Kari , Brattebø Guttorm
Published: September 2020

Aims

To examine the use and effects of multiple simulations in nursing education.

Design

A mixed study systematic review. Databases (CINAHL, Medline, PubMed, EMBASE, ERIC, Education source and Science Direct) were searched for studies published until April 2020.

Method

Researchers analysed the articles. Bias risk was evaluated using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme and Cochrane Risk of Bias tool.

Results

In total, 27 studies were included and four themes identified. Students participated in multiple simulation sessions, over weeks to years, which included 1–4 scenarios in various nursing contexts. Simulations were used to prepare for, or partly replace, students’ clinical practice. Learning was described in terms of knowledge, competence and confidence.

Conclusion

Multiple scenario‐based simulation is a positive intervention that can be implemented in various courses during every academic year to promote nursing students’ learning. Further longitudinal research is required, including randomized studies, with transparency regarding study design and instruments.
Relationships among parenting stress, health‐promoting behaviors, and health‐related quality of life in Korean mothers of children with cerebral palsy
Authors: Lee Meen Hye , Matthews Alicia K. , Park Chang Gi , Vincent Catherine , Hsieh Kelly , Savage Teresa A.
Published: September 2020

Health‐promoting behaviors have been shown to enhance the quality of life across diverse populations. In this study, we examined the indirect effects of several health‐promoting behaviors on the relationship between parenting stress and health‐related quality of life in mothers of children with cerebral palsy (CP). A convenience sample of Korean mothers (N = 180) of children aged 10 months to 12 years with CP was recruited from clinical and school settings. Health‐promoting behaviors were measured using the health‐promoting lifestyle profile II, which is comprised of six subscales: health responsibility, physical activity, nutrition, spiritual growth, interpersonal relations, and stress management. Multiple mediation analyses were conducted to examine the mediating role of these behavioral categories. Spiritual growth (β = .56, p < .05) had an indirect effect on the relationship between parenting stress and physical health‐related quality of life while spiritual growth (β = −1.00, p < .01) and stress management (β = −.80, p < .05) were found to mediate the association between parenting stress and mental health‐related quality of life. The findings of multiple mediation analyses provide evidence of the influence of specific health‐promoting behaviors on health‐related quality of life, thereby informing the development of intervention programs for mothers of children with disabilities.
Spindle cell carcinoma arising in a skin graft of the tongue: A case report
Authors: Yagihara Kazuhiro , Ishii Junichi , Sumino Jun , Katsurano Miki , Yamamoto Gou , Ishikawa Ayataka
Published: September 2020

Spindle cell carcinoma (SpCC) exhibits dual features of malignancy, with the histology of squamous cell carcinoma and sarcoma‐like proliferation of spindle cells. SpCC development in the oral region has rarely been reported. Skin grafts are frequently applied to defects following superficial cancer resection. We encountered an extremely rare case of SpCC that developed in the central part of a skin graft, which was applied after superficial tongue cancer resection. SpCC may develop on skin grafts and is not limited to the oral mucosa in the oral cavity. Therefore, long‐term observation should be done carefully because skin grafts change over time.
Langerhans cell histiocytosis with BRAF p.N486_P490del or MAP2K1 p.K57_G61del treated by the MEK inhibitor trametinib
Authors: Messinger Yoav H. , Bostrom Bruce C. , Olson Damon R. , Gossai Nathan P. , Miller Lane H. , Richards Michael K.
Published: September 2020

Activating variants of the MAPK pathway have been found in some Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) lesions. Inhibition of the MAPK pathway with trametinib (MEK inhibitor) has been shown to induce responses in LCH patients. Two adolescent males with LCH driven by BRAF p.N486_P490del have received trametinib for >1 year with no reactivation in one and partial response in another (including stable lung disease). A third male with neonatal LCH and MAP2K1p.K57_G61del had a complete response to trametinib with no active disease after 22 months. All patients continue on trametinib monotherapy with tolerable skin and creatine phosphokinase toxicity.
Analytical approach to study the vibration of delaminated multi‐scale composite cylindrical shells
Authors: Baharali Ali Akbar , Yazdi Ali Amin
Published: September 2020

In this study, the effect of carbon nano‐tubes (CNTs) and fiber carbons on vibration frequency of delaminated anti‐symmetric cross‐ply cylindrical shells is investigated. In this case, (CNTs) are added into polymer matrix of industrial composite. The mixture of rule and Halpin‐Tsai relation are used to obtain the effective materials of reinforced delaminated multi‐scale composite cylindrical shell. Based on Galerkine's method an approximate‐analytical solution is presented to predict the frequency vibration of delaminated multi‐scale composite shells. The results are used to assess the effect of various parameters including CNTs weight percentage, geometric parameters, delamination length and position across circumferential and thickness direction on frequency ratio for CNTs reinforced anti‐symmetric cross‐ply delaminated composite cylindrical shells.
Who Knows Best What the Next Year Will Hold for You? The Validity of Direct and Personality–based Predictions of Future Life Experiences across Different Perceivers
Authors: Wessels Nele M. , Zimmermann Johannes , Leising Daniel
Published: September 2020

This study explored the validity of person judgements by targets and their acquaintances (‘informants’) in longitudinally predicting a broad range of psychologically meaningful life experiences. Judgements were gathered from four sources (targets, N = 189; and three types of informants, N = 1352), and their relative predictive validity was compared for three types of judgement: direct predictions of future life experiences (e.g. number of new friendships), broad (Big Five) domains (e.g. extraversion), and narrower personality nuances (e.g. sociable). Approximately 1 year later, the targets’ actual life experiences were retrospectively assessed by the targets, and by informants nominated by the targets (TNI). Overall, we found evidence for predictive validity across predictor sources and types. Direct predictions by targets were by far the most valid, followed by TNI. Personality–based predictions by targets and TNI had substantial but lower validity. Domain–based predictions were less valid than nuance–based predictions. Overall, informants with lower ‘liking’ and ‘knowing’ towards targets made less valid predictions. Person–centred multilevel analyses showed both considerable validity of direct predictions (which increased with knowing) and positivity bias (which increased with liking). Taken together, given the relatively high methodological rigour of the study, these results provide an especially realistic picture of the rather moderate predictive power of person judgements regarding future life experiences and corroborate the common practice of obtaining such judgements from targets and their close acquaintances. © 2020 The Authors. European Journal of Personality published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of European Association of Personality Psychology
Extinction risk and threats to plants and fungi
Authors: Nic Lughadha Eimear , Bachman Steven P. , Leão Tarciso C. C. , Forest Félix , Halley John M. , Moat Justin , Acedo Carmen , Bacon Karen L. , Brewer Ryan F. A. , Gâteblé Gildas , Gonçalves Susana C. , Govaerts Rafaël , Hollingsworth Peter M. , Krisai‐Greilhuber Irmgard , de Lirio Elton J. , Moore Paloma G. P. , Negrão Raquel , Onana Jean Michel , Rajaovelona Landy R. , Razanajatovo Henintsoa , Reich Peter B. , Richards Sophie L. , Rivers Malin C. , Cooper Amanda , Iganci João , Lewis Gwilym P. , Smidt Eric C. , Antonelli Alexandre , Mueller Gregory M. , Walker Barnaby E.
Published: September 2020

Societal Impact Statement

There is increasing awareness that plants and fungi, as natural solutions, can play an important role in tackling ongoing global environmental challenges. We illustrate how understanding current and projected threats to plants and fungi is necessary to manage and mitigate risks, while building awareness of gaps and bias in current assessment coverage is essential to adequately prioritize conservation efforts. We highlight the state of the art in conservation science and point to current methods of assessment and future studies needed to mitigate species extinction.

Plant and fungal biodiversity underpin life on earth and merit careful stewardship in an increasingly uncertain environment. However, gaps and biases in documented extinction risks to plant and fungal species impede effective management. Formal extinction risk assessments help avoid extinctions, through engagement, financial, or legal mechanisms, but most plant and fungal species lack assessments. Available global assessments cover c. 30% of plant species (ThreatSearch). Red List coverage overrepresents woody perennials and useful plants, but underrepresents single‐country endemics. Fungal assessments overrepresent well‐known species and are too few to infer global status or trends. Proportions of assessed vascular plant species considered threatened vary between global assessment datasets: 37% (ThreatSearch), and 44% (International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Threatened Species). Our predictions, correcting for several quantifiable biases, suggest that 39% of all vascular plant species are threatened with extinction. However, other biases remain unquantified, and may affect our estimate. Preliminary trend data show plants moving toward extinction. Quantitative estimates based on plant extinction risk assessments may understate likely biodiversity loss: they do not fully capture the impacts of climate change, slow‐acting threats, or clustering of extinction risk, which could amplify loss of evolutionary potential. The importance of extinction risk estimation to support existing and emerging conservation initiatives is likely to grow as threats to biodiversity intensify. This necessitates urgent and strategic expansion of efforts toward comprehensive and ongoing assessment of plant and fungal extinction risk.
Fire safety is the key to ammonium nitrate explosion safety
Authors: Babrauskas Vytenis
Published: September 2020

A strategy is formulated on how ammonium nitrate safety may be improved with regards to explosions. It is shown that, for ammonium nitrate in storage or in transport (as distinguished from manufacturing activities), there has been only one cause of explosions—uncontrolled fire. It is also identified that, given an uncontrolled fire impinging on a stock of ammonium nitrate, there is a 30% probability of explosion and a 15% probability of loss of life. These facts then clearly indicate that eliminating the potential for uncontrolled fires will eliminate the potential for explosion of ammonium nitrate in storage or in transport. It is shown that precluding the potential for fires is not difficult, given appropriate building construction and operating procedures. Finally, some additional safety factors are identified, as are safety factors which have been proposed, but are not technically sound.
Host plant use of Helicoverpa spp. (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in the Brazilian agricultural landscape
Authors: Dourado Patrick M , Pantoja‐Gomez Laura M , Horikoshi Renato J , Carvalho Renato A , Omoto Celso , Corrêa Alberto S , Kim Jae H , Martinelli Samuel , Head Graham P
Published: September 2020

BACKGROUND

The Old‐World bollworm, Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner), was recently documented attacking cotton and soybean plants in Brazil; however, restricted basic knowledge on host plant interactions and landscape use in Brazil have limited the effectiveness of control measures. In this study, we evaluated the suitability of different crops commonly cultivated in Brazil as hosts for H. armigera and H. zea, and examined their contribution to the establishment and size of H. armigera and H. zea field populations. We also estimated the proportions of H. armigera and H. zea moths that used cotton, noncotton C3 plants, and C4 plants as hosts in four regions in Brazil through the length of the cropping season.

RESULTS

Viability of H. armigera larvae was highest on cotton (46.1%), followed by millet (39.5%), sorghum (31.2%), soybean (24.2%), and maize (21.1%). Noncotton C3 hosts served as the major source of H. armigera moths in all regions evaluated, and C4 hosts were a source of H. armigera mainly in regions where winter maize is typically cultivated. H. armigera moths that used cotton plants as natal hosts were observed during the reproductive stage of the crop mainly in the state of Bahia. Only C4 host plants were a consistent source of H. zea moths, primarily when maize was in the reproductive stage. H. armigera individuals were the main species infesting cotton and soybean fields while H. zea individuals were the main species infesting maize ears.

CONCLUSIONS

Regional differences in the host use and population dynamics of H. armigera among the regions evaluated may be attributed to variation in alternative host utilization (crops, noncrops, and weeds) and the possible occurrence of facultative diapause and or migration.
Dynamical Evolution of Sasa–Satsuma Rogue Waves, Breather Solutions, and New Special Wave Phenomena in a Nonlinear Metamaterial
Authors: Onana Essama Bedel Giscard , Ndjakomo Essiane Salome , Biya-Motto Frederic , Ndi Nnanga Bibiane Mireille , Shabat Mohammed , Atangana Jacques
Published: September 2020

Herein, the behavior of the soliton light pulse when quintic –nonlinearity, third‐order dispersion, and self‐steepening come into play in a nonlinear metamaterial for both negative index and absorption regimes is presented. The collective coordinate technique is used with the conventional Gaussian ansatz function to give a good characterization of the pulse profile. In addition to that the ansatz function presents six coordinates describing the internal behavior of the pulse during the propagation. Furthermore, the main goal of this work is to give an exact measure of the internal behavior leading to the generation of rogue events by collective coordinates. Some interesting results are found when the aforementioned linear and nonlinear effects gradually come into play. Among them is the generation of different forms of breather solutions, divergent wave trains, different forms of Sasa–Satsuma rogue waves, parabolic wave trains, Peregrine rogue waves, and “tree structures”. Some special phenomena known as deletion, translation, attenuation, and wall of waves are also shown. However, some new exact rogue solutions of the cubic–quintic nonlinear Schrödinger equation are also found.
Insight into incident photon to current conversion efficiency in chlorophylls
Authors: Sabagh Samira , Izadyar Mohammad , Arkan Foroogh
Published: September 2020

Photovoltaic properties of the natural dyes of chlorophylls consist ofChl a,Chl b,Chl c2,Chl d,Phe a,Phe y, andMg‐Phe aand have been studied in the gas phases and water. The extension of the π‐conjugated system, the substitution of the central Mg2+, and proper functional groups in the chlorophyll structures can amplify the charge transfer and photovoltaic performance.Chl ashows more favorable dynamics of charge transfer than the other studied chlorophylls.Chl d,Phe a,Phe y, andMg‐Phe ahave a greater rate of exciton dissociation in comparison withChl a,Chl b, andChl c2originating from a lower electronic chemical hardness, a lower exciton binding energy, and a bigger electron‐hole radius. As a result, better efficiencies of light harvesting and energy conversion of the chlorophylls mainly appear in the Soret band. The light‐harvesting efficiency values of the chlorophylls in water show that solvent favorably affects the ability of light harvesting of the photosensitizers. Finally, based on the energy conversion efficiency,Chl a,Phe a, andMg‐Phe aare proposed as the best candidates for use in the dye‐sensitized solar cells.
Cyclopentene Synthesis by a Catalytic [3+2] Annulation of Donor‐Acceptor Cyclopropanes with Polarized Alkenes
Authors: Xu Cong , Wei Na , Zhu Dongsheng , Wang Mang
Published: September 2020

[3+2] Annulation of donor‐acceptor cyclopropanes with alkynes represents an efficient route to cyclopentenes. Here, we describe a new cyclopentene synthesis via Lewis acid‐catalyzed ring‐opening addition and intramolecular SNV reaction of donor‐acceptor cyclopropanes with alkenes. The reaction is carried out under the catalysis of Sc(OTf)3 by using polarized alkenes, namely α‐oxo ketene dithioacetals, as 2 C partners.
Microstructure and Hydrogen Storage Properties of Melt‐Spun Mg91Y3Al6 Alloy
Authors: Lei Jingjing , Zhang Qingan
Published: September 2020

The microstructure and hydrogen absorption‐desorption characteristics of melt‐spun Mg91Y3Al6 alloy are investigated in this paper. In the melt‐spun alloy, an over‐stoichiometric Laves phase Y(Al,Mg)2.4 is present along the grain boundaries of matrix phase Mg(Al) in form of network and Y5Mg24 phase is embedded in the matrix. During the ball‐milling process under hydrogen atmosphere, hydrogen‐induced decompositions of Y(Al,Mg)2.4 into YAl2+MgH2+YH3 and Y5Mg24 into MgH2+YH3 occur simultaneously. We observe improvements of hydrogen desorption kinetics and cycle durability of MgH2, likely due to the presence of in situ formed YAl2 and YH3, which may inhibit crystallite growth, provide catalytic effect and suppress surface oxidation.
Lignin‐Incorporated Supramolecular Copolymerization Yielding g‐C3N4 Nanoarchitectures for Efficient Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Zhao Chengxiao , Ding Chao , Han Chenhui , Yang Xiaofei , Xu Jingsan
Published: September 2020

Graphitic carbon nitride (g‐C3N4)‐based nanostructures are a fast‐growing family of metal‐free semiconductors that have attracted much attention as hydrogen‐evolving photocatalysts. Previous research mostly uses small organic molecules to modify g‐C3N4 for improved solar‐to‐fuel conversion efficiency; however, there are scarce reports on high‐efficiency g‐C3N4 photocatalysts modified with natural macromolecules. Herein, lignin‐modified g‐C3N4 nanoarchitectures with an ultrathin layered topography are successfully synthesized. The biomass‐modified g‐C3N4 photocatalyst obtained through this method delivers a hydrogen‐evolving rate of 2235 μmol g−1 h−1, which is 3.5 times higher than that of g‐C3N4 calcined from the preorganized cyanuric acid–melamine supramolecular assemblies. On the basis of experimental evidences, the improved hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) performance is attributed to synergistic effects between the ultrathin few‐layer 2D nanostructure, extended visible light absorption, and ideal energy band configuration. The biomass‐activated g‐C3N4 nanostructures prepared via this synthesis route prove suitable for use as cost‐effective and efficient photocatalysts for scalable solar hydrogen production.
Modeling and Simulation of Void Closure during Steckel Mill Rolling for Steel Plate
Authors: Ganguly Shouvik , Wang Xin , Chandrashekhara K. , Buchely Mario F. , Lekakh Simon , O'Malley Ronald J. , Bai Dengqi , Wang Yufeng
Published: September 2020

Internal void defects as shrinkage porosity, gas bubble, and thermo‐mechanical cracks are usually formed during steel casting processes. These defects have critical impact on the quality and service life of hot‐rolled products. Study of the possibility of self‐healing of existing internal defects during hot‐rolling process has been of interest to industry and researchers. Prediction of void closure is extremely useful in relation to better product design and manufacturing process optimization. Herein, a 3D finite element model of the slab hot‐rolling process is developed to simulate and analyze the healing of internal voids in hot‐rolled steel plate. The material model for the steel plate is developed based on Johnson–Cook constitutive relation to accurately represent its viscoplastic behavior at high temperatures as well as account for strain rate sensitivity. The study evaluates the thermal and mechanical response of low‐carbon steel slabs having pre‐existing voids during multi‐pass strands reverse hot‐rolling process. Through thickness plastic strains within the slab are found to influence void closure. Results show that variation in void size and locations also affect the healing possibilities. Finally, the effect of thermal history and thermo‐mechanical stresses on void closure is studied.
Clinoptilolite augmented electrocoagulation process for the reduction of high‐strength ammonia and color from stabilized landfill leachate
Authors: Hamid Mohd Azhar Abd , Aziz Hamidi Abdul , Yusoff Mohd Suffian , Rezan Sheikh Abdul
Published: September 2020

The high‐strength leachate produced from sanitary landfill is a serious issue around the world as it poses adverse effects on aquatic life and human health. Physio‐chemical technology is one of the promising options as the leachate normally presents in stabilized form and not fully amendable by biological treatment. In this research, the effectiveness of natural zeolite (clinoptilolite) augmented electrocoagulation process (hybrid system) for removing high‐strength ammonia (3,442 mg/L) and color (8,427 Pt‐Co) from naturally saline (15 ppt) local landfill leachate was investigated. A batch mode laboratory‐scale reactor with parallel‐monopolar aluminum electrodes attached to a direct current (DC) electric power was used as an electrocoagulation reactor for performance enhancement purpose. Optimum operational conditions of 146 g/L zeolite dosage, 600 A/m2 current density, 60 min treatment time, 200 rpm stirring speed, 35 min settling duration, and pH 9 were recorded with up to 70% and 88% removals of ammonia and color, respectively. The estimated overall operational cost was 26.22 $/m3. The biodegradability of the leachate had improved from 0.05 to 0.27 in all post‐treatment processes. The findings revealed the ability of the hybrid process as a viable option in eliminating concentrated ammonia and color in natural saline landfill leachate.

Practitioner points

Clinoptilolite was augmented on the electrocoagulation process in saline and stabilized landfill leachate (15 ppt).

The high strength NH3‐N (3,442 mg/L) and color (8,427 Pt‐Co) were 70% and 88% removed, respectively.

The optimum conditions occurred at 140 g/L zeolite, 60 mA/cm2 current density, 60 min, and final pH of 8.20.

The biodegradability of the leachate improved from 0.05 to 0.27 after the treatment.

This hybrid treatment was simple, faster, and did not require auxiliary electrolyte.
Characterization of the Upper Atmosphere from Neutral and Electron Density Observations
Authors: Calabia Andres , Jin Shuanggen
Published: September 2020

Upper-atmospheric processes under different space weather conditions are still not well understood, and the existing models are far away from the desired operational requirements due to the lack of in-situ measurements input. The ionospheric perturbation of electromagnetic signals affects the accuracy and reliability of Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS), satellite communication infrastructures, and Earth observation techniques. Furthermore, the variable aerodynamic drag, due to variable thermospheric mass density, disturbs orbital tracking, collision analysis, and re-entry calculations of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) objects, including manned and unmanned artificial satellites. In this paper, we use the Principal Component Analysis (PCA) technique to study and compare the main driver-response relationships and spatial patterns of total electron content (TEC) estimates from 2003 to 2018, and total mass density (TMD) estimates at 475 km altitude from 2003 to 2015. Comparison of the first TEC and TMD PCA mode shows a very similar response to solar flux, but annual cycle shown by TEC is approximately one order of magnitude larger. A clear hemispheric asymmetry is shown in the global distribution of TMD, with higher values in the southern hemisphere than in the northern hemisphere. The hemispheric asymmetry is not visible in TEC. The persistent processes including a favorable solar wind input and particle precipitation over the southern magnetic dip may produce a higher thermospheric heating, which results in the hemispheric asymmetry in TMD.
Direct calculation of mutual information of distant regions
Authors: Shiba Noburo
Published: September 2020

Abstract

We consider the (Rényi) mutual information, $$ {I}^{(n)}\left(A,B\right)={S}_A^{(n)}+{S}_B^{(n)}-{S}_{A\cup B}^{(n)} $$

I

n

A
B

=

S
A

n

+

S
B

n

−

S

A
∪
B

n

, of distant compact spatial regions A and B in the vacuum state of a free scalar field. The distance r between A and B is much greater than their sizes RA,B. It is known that $$ {I}^{(n)}\left(A,B\right)\sim {C}_{AB}^{(n)}{\left\langle 0\left|\phi (r)\phi (0)0\right|\right\rangle}^2 $$

I

n

A
B

∼

C
AB

n

0

ϕ

r

ϕ

0

0

2

. We obtain the direct expression of $$ {C}_{AB}^{(n)} $$

C
AB

n

for arbitrary regions A and B. We perform the analytical continuation of n and obtain the mutual information. The direct expression is useful for the numerical computation. By using the direct expression, we can compute directly I(A, B) without computing SA, SB and SA∪B respectively, so it reduces significantly the amount of computation.
nNNPDF2.0: quark flavor separation in nuclei from LHC data
Authors: Khalek Rabah Abdul , Ethier Jacob J. , Rojo Juan , van Weelden Gijs
Published: September 2020

Abstract

We present a model-independent determination of the nuclear parton distribution functions (nPDFs) using machine learning methods and Monte Carlo techniques based on the NNPDF framework. The neutral-current deep-inelastic nuclear structure functions used in our previous analysis, nNNPDF1.0, are complemented by inclusive and charm-tagged cross-sections from charged-current scattering. Furthermore, we include all available measurements of W and Z leptonic rapidity distributions in proton-lead collisions from ATLAS and CMS at $$ \sqrt{s} $$

s

= 5.02 TeV and 8.16 TeV. The resulting nPDF determination, nNNPDF2.0, achieves a good description of all datasets. In addition to quantifying the nuclear modifications affecting individual quarks and antiquarks, we examine the implications for strangeness, assess the role that the momentum and valence sum rules play in nPDF extractions, and present predictions for representative phenomenological applications. Our results, made available via the LHAPDF library, highlight the potential of high-energy collider measurements to probe nuclear dynamics in a robust manner.
Topological correlators and surface defects from equivariant cohomology
Authors: Panerai Rodolfo , Pittelli Antonio , Polydorou Konstantina
Published: September 2020

Abstract

We find a one-dimensional protected subsector of $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 matter theories on a general class of three-dimensional manifolds. By means of equivariant localization we identify a dual quantum mechanics computing BPS correlators of the original model in three dimensions. Specifically, applying the Atiyah-Bott-Berline-Vergne formula to the original action demonstrates that this localizes on a one-dimensional action with support on the fixed-point submanifold of suitable isometries. We first show that our approach reproduces previous results obtained on S3. Then, we apply it to the novel case of S2× S1 and show that the theory localizes on two noninteracting quantum mechanics with disjoint support. We prove that the BPS operators of such models are naturally associated with a noncom- mutative star product, while their correlation functions are essentially topological. Finally, we couple the three-dimensional theory to general $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= (2, 2) surface defects and extend the localization computation to capture the full partition function and BPS correlators of the mixed-dimensional system.
Higher dimensional black hole scalarization
Authors: Astefanesei Dumitru , Herdeiro Carlos , Oliveira João , Radu Eugen
Published: September 2020

Abstract

In the simplest scalar-tensor theories, wherein the scalar field is non-minimally coupled to the Ricci scalar, spontaneous scalarization of electrovacuum black holes (BHs) does not occur. This ceases to be true in higher dimensional spacetimes, d > 4. We consider the scalarization of the higher dimensional Reissner-Nordström BHs in scalar-tensor models and provide results on the zero modes for different d, together with an explicit construction of the scalarized BHs in d = 5, discussing some of their properties. We also observe that a conformal transformation into the Einstein frame maps this model into an Einstein-Maxwel- scalar model, wherein the non-minimal coupling occurs between the scalar field and the Maxwell invariant (rather than the Ricci scalar), thus relating the occurence of scalarization in the two models. Next, we consider the spontaneous scalarization of the Schwarzschild- Tangherlini BH in extended-scalar-tensor-Lovelock gravity in even dimensions. In these models, the scalar field is non-minimally coupled to the (d/2)th Euler density, in d spacetime dimensions. We construct explicitly examples in d = 6, 8, showing the properties of the four dimensional case are qualitatively generic, but with quantitative differences. We compare these higher d scalarized BHs with the hairy BHs in shift-symmetric Horndeski theory, for the same d, which we also construct.
Flavour violating effects of Yukawa running in SMEFT
Authors: Aebischer Jason , Kumar Jacky
Published: September 2020

Abstract

We study Yukawa Renormalization Group (RG) running effects in the context of the Standard Model Effective Theory (SMEFT). The Yukawa running being flavour dependent leads to RG-induced off-diagonal entries, so that initially diagonal Yukawa matrices at the high scale have to be rediagonalized at the electroweak (EW) scale. Performing such flavour rotations can lead to flavour violating operators which differ from the ones obtained through SMEFT RG evolution. We show, that these flavour rotations can have a large impact on low-energy phenomenology. In order to demonstrate this effect, we com- pare the two sources of flavour violation numerically as well as analytically and study their influence on several examples of down-type flavour transitions. For this purpose we con- sider $$ {B}_s-{\overline{B}}_s $$

B
s

−

B
¯

s

mixing, b → sγ, b → sℓℓ as well as electroweak precision observables. We show that the rotation effect can be comparable or even larger than the contribution from pure RGE evolution of the Wilson coefficients.
A High-Frequency Homogenization Approach Near the Dirac Points in Bubbly Honeycomb Crystals
Authors: Ammari Habib , Hiltunen Erik Orvehed , Yu Sanghyeon
Published: September 2020

In (Ammari et al. in SIAM J Math Anal. arXiv:1811.03905), the existence of a Dirac dispersion cone in a bubbly honeycomb phononic crystal comprised of bubbles of arbitrary shape is shown. The aim of this paper is to prove that, near the Dirac points, the Bloch eigenfunctions is the sum of two eigenmodes. Each eigenmode can be decomposed into two components: one which is slowly varying and satisfies a homogenized equation, while the other is periodic across each elementary crystal cell and is highly oscillating. The slowly oscillating components of the eigenmodes satisfy a system of Dirac equations. Our results in this paper prove for the first time a near-zero effective refractive index near the Dirac points for the plane-wave envelopes of the Bloch eigenfunctions in a sub-wavelength metamaterial. They are illustrated by a variety of numerical examples. We also compare and contrast the behaviour of the Bloch eigenfunctions in the honeycomb crystal with that of their counterparts in a bubbly square crystal, near the corner of the Brillouin zone, where the maximum of the first Bloch eigenvalue is attained.
Couplings via Comparison Principle and Exponential Ergodicity of SPDEs in the Hypoelliptic Setting
Authors: Butkovsky Oleg , Scheutzow Michael
Published: September 2020

We develop a general framework for studying ergodicity of order-preserving Markov semigroups. We establish natural and in a certain sense optimal conditions for existence and uniqueness of the invariant measure and exponential convergence of transition probabilities of an order-preserving Markov process. As an application, we show exponential ergodicity and exponentially fast synchronization-by-noise of the stochastic reaction–diffusion equation in the hypoelliptic setting. This refines and complements corresponding results of Hairer and Mattingly (Electron J Probab 16:658–738, 2011).
Adiabatic Invariants for the FPUT and Toda Chain in the Thermodynamic Limit
Authors: Grava T. , Maspero A. , Mazzuca G. , Ponno A.
Published: September 2020

We consider the Fermi–Pasta–Ulam–Tsingou (FPUT) chain composed by $$N \gg 1$$

N
≫
1

particles and periodic boundary conditions, and endow the phase space with the Gibbs measure at small temperature $$\beta ^{-1}$$

β

-
1

. Given a fixed $${1\le m \ll N}$$

1
≤
m
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, we prove that the first m integrals of motion of the periodic Toda chain are adiabatic invariants of FPUT (namely they are approximately constant along the Hamiltonian flow of the FPUT) for times of order $$\beta $$
β
, for initial data in a set of large measure. We also prove that special linear combinations of the harmonic energies are adiabatic invariants of the FPUT on the same time scale, whereas they become adiabatic invariants for all times for the Toda dynamics.
Influence of action video gaming on spatial representation in the haptic modality
Authors: Van Mier Hanneke I. , Jiao Hui
Published: September 2020

Spatial representation in the haptic domain has been shown to be prone to systematic errors. When participants are asked to make two bars haptically parallel, their performance deviates from what would be veridically parallel. This is hypothesized to be caused by the bias of the egocentric reference frame. Stimulating the use of an allocentric reference frame has previously been shown to improve performance in haptic parallelity matching. The aim of the current study was to investigate the influence of action video game experience on parallelity performance. We hypothesized that participants who extensively play action video games with a so-called ‘bird’s-eye view’ are likely to process spatial information more allocentrically, resulting in better performance in haptic parallelity matching. This was tested in two groups of male participants, 10 participants with extensive action video gaming experience (AVGPs) and 10 participants without or hardly any action video gaming experience (NAVGPs). Additionally, the effect of visual–haptic practice on haptic parallelity performance was tested. In the haptic blocks, blindfolded participants had to feel the orientation of a reference bar with their non-dominant hand and had to match this orientation on a test bar with their dominant hand. In subsequent visual–haptic blocks, they had full view of the set-up and visually paralleled both bars. As hypothesized, AVGPs performed significantly better in haptic blocks than NAVGPs. Visual–haptic practice resulted in significantly better performance in subsequent haptic blocks in both groups. These results suggest that playing action video games might enhance haptic spatial representation, although a causative relationship still needs to be established.
Validation of an in vivo porcine simulation model of pedicled latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap elevation
Authors: Hamada Maha Wagdy , Pafitanis Giorgios , Nistor Alex , Kim Youn Hwan , Myers Simon , Ghanem Ali
Published: September 2020

Background

In vivo and ex vivo simulation training workshops can contribute to surgical skill acquisition but require validation before becoming incorporated within curricula. Ideally, that validation should include the following: face, content, construct, concurrent, and predictive validity.

Methods

During two in vivo porcine surgical training workshops, 27 participants completed questionnaires relating to face and content validity of porcine in vivo flap elevation. Six participants’ performances raising a pedicled myocutaneous latissimus dorsi (LD) flap in the pig (2 experts and 4 trainees) were sequentially and objectively assessed for construct validity with hand motion analysis (HMA), a performance checklist, a blinded randomized procedure-specific rating scale of standardized video recordings, and flap viability by fluorescence imaging.

Results

Face and content validity were demonstrated straightforwardly. Construct validity was demonstrated for average procedure time by HMA between trainees and experts (p = 0.036). Skill acquisition was demonstrated by trainees’ HMA average number of hand movements (p = 0.046) and fluorescence flap viability (p = 0.034).

Conclusion

Face and content validity for in vivo porcine flap elevation simulation training were established. Construct validity was established for an in vivo porcine latissimus dorsi flap elevation simulation specifically. Predictive validity will prove more challenging to establish.

Level of evidence: Not ratable .
Causes of acromion and scapular spine fractures following reverse shoulder arthroplasty: a retrospective analysis and literature review
Authors: Nyffeler Richard W. , Altioklar Bartu , Bissig Philipp
Published: September 2020

Purpose

Fractures of the acromion and the scapular spine are serious complications after reverse total shoulder arthroplasty. They concern about 4 to 5% of the patients and always result in a significant deterioration of shoulder function. Different causes have been taken into consideration, particularly stress or fatigue fractures. The purpose of the present study was to analyse our own cases and to discuss the causes reported in the literature.

Methods

We reviewed our shoulder arthroplasty registry and the consultation reports of the last ten years. The charts and radiographs of all patients who had a post-operative fracture of the acromion or the scapular spine were carefully examined and the results were compared with those of an age- and gender-matched control group.

Results

Twelve patients with an average age of 79 years sustained a fracture of the acromion (n = 6) or the scapular spine (n = 6). The time interval between the operation and the fracture averaged 26 months and ranged from three weeks to 70 months. Eight patients (67%) had a trauma. Seven of them reported a fall on the corresponding shoulder and one a heavy blow on the acromion. The four non-traumatic fractures were attributed to poor bone quality. All 12 patients had immediate pain and difficulty to actively elevate the affected arm. The time interval between the fracture and its diagnosis averaged ten weeks (0 to 10 months). At final follow-up, all patients could reach their face and refused further surgery. Two patients rated their result as good, six as acceptable and four as poor.

Conclusions

Our study cannot support the hypothesis that most acromion and scapular spine fractures after RSA are the result of increased tension in the deltoid or stress fractures. In our series, the majority of the fractures were related to a fall. Implantation of a reverse prosthesis exposes the acromion and makes it more vulnerable to direct trauma. Non-traumatic fractures were associated with poor bone quality.
Donor Site Morbidity of Patients Receiving Vertical Rectus Abdominis Myocutaneous Flap for Perineal, Vaginal or Inguinal Reconstruction
Authors: Schellerer Vera S. , Bartholomé Lenka , Langheinrich Melanie C. , Grützmann Robert , Horch Raymund E. , Merkel Susanne , Weber Klaus
Published: September 2020

Background

Management of donor site closure after harvesting a vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous (VRAM) flap is discussed heterogeneously in the literature. We aim to analyze the postoperative complications of the donor site depending on the closure technique.

Methods

During a 12‐year period (2003–2015), 192 patients in our department received transpelvic VRAM flap reconstruction. Prospectively collected data were analyzed retrospectively.

Results

182 patients received a VRAM flap reconstruction for malignant, 10 patients for benign disease. The median age of patients was 62 years. 117 patients (61%) received a reconstruction of donor site by Vypro® mesh, 46 patients (24%) by Vicryl® mesh, 23 patients (12%) by direct closure and 6 patients (3%) by combination of different meshes. 32 patients (17%) developed in total 34 postoperative complications at the donor site. 22 complications (11%) were treated conservatively, 12 (6%) surgically. 17 patients (9%) developed incisional hernia during follow‐up, with highest incidence in the Vicryl® group (n = 8; 17%) and lowest in the Vypro® group (n = 7; 6%). Postoperative parastomal hernias were found in 30 patients (16%) including three patients with simultaneous hernia around an urostomy and a colostomy. The highest incidence of parastomal hernia was found in patients receiving primary closure of the donor site (n = 6; 26%), the lowest incidence in the Vypro® group (n = 16; 14%).

Conclusion

The use of Vypro® mesh for donor site closure appears to be associated with a low postoperative incidence of complications and can therefore be recommended as a preferred technique.
In‐Hospital Postoperative Mortality Rates for Selected Procedures in Tanzania's Lake Zone
Authors: Wurdeman Taylor , Strader Christopher , Alidina Shehnaz , Barash David , Citron Isabelle , Kapologwe Ntuli , Maina Erastus , Massaga Fabian , Mazhiqi Adelina , Meara John G. , Menon Gopal , Reynolds Cheri , Sydlowski Meaghan , Varallo John , Maongezi Sarah , Ulisubisya Mpoki
Published: September 2020

Background

Postoperative mortality rate is one of six surgical indicators identified by the Lancet Commission on Global Surgery for monitoring access to high‐quality surgical care. The primary aim of this study was to measure the postoperative mortality rate in Tanzania's Lake Zone to provide a baseline for surgical strengthening efforts. The secondary aim was to measure the effect of Safe Surgery 2020, a multi‐component intervention to improve surgical quality, on postoperative mortality after 10 months.

Methods

We prospectively collected data on postoperative mortality from 20 health centers, district hospitals, and regional hospitals in Tanzania's Lake Zone over two time periods: pre‐intervention (February to April 2018) and post‐intervention (March to May 2019). We analyzed postoperative mortality rates by procedure type. We used logistic regression to determine the impact of Safe Surgery 2020 on postoperative mortality.

Results

The overall average in‐hospital non‐obstetric postoperative mortality rate for all surgery procedures was 2.62%. The postoperative mortality rates for laparotomy were 3.92% and for cesarean delivery was 0.24%. Logistic regression demonstrated no difference in the postoperative mortality rate after the Safe Surgery 2020 intervention.

Conclusions

Our results inform national surgical planning in Tanzania by providing a sub‐national baseline estimate of postoperative mortality rates for multiple surgical procedures and serve as a basis from which to measure the impact of future surgical quality interventions. Our study showed no improvement in postoperative mortality after implementation of Safe Surgery 2020, possibly due to low power to detect change.
#Covid4Rheum: an analytical twitter study in the time of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Ruffer Nikolas , Knitza Johannes , Krusche Martin
Published: September 2020

Social media services, such as Twitter, offer great potential for a better understanding of rheumatic and musculoskeletal disorders (RMDs) and improved care in the field of rheumatology. This study examined the content and stakeholders associated with the Twitter hashtag #Covid4Rheum during the COVID-19 pandemic. The content analysis shows that Twitter connects stakeholders of the rheumatology community on a global level, reaching millions of users. Specifically, the use of hashtags on Twitter assists digital crowdsourcing projects and scientific collaboration, as exemplified by the COVID-19 Global Rheumatology Alliance registry. Moreover, Twitter facilitates the distribution of scientific content, such as guidelines or publications. Finally, digital data mining enables the identification of hot topics within the field of rheumatology.