bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Can we improve our management of dysfunctional voiding in children and adults: International Consultation on Incontinence Research Society; ICI‐RS2018?
Authors: Tarcan Tufan , von Gontard Alexander , Apostolidis Apostolos , Mosiello Giovanni , Abrams Paul
Published: December 2019

Aims

Dysfunctional voiding (DV) remains a poorly understood and a poorly managed problem, both in children and adults. The Think Tank (TT) discussed how to improve the management of DV in these two different age groups and in transitional care.

Methods

During the 2018 International Consultation on Incontinence Research Society held in Bristol, a multidisciplinary TT on DV was created. The presentations and subsequent discussion, leading to research recommendations intended to improve the management of DV in children and adults are summarized.

Results

To improve the management of DV in children and adults, the TT panel proposed: (1) to conduct reliable prevalence studies of DV; (2) to perform longitudinal studies to prospectively test the sequence hypothesis by answering the following questions: (a) Which, if any children show a progression from overactive bladder or voiding postponement to DV?; (b) Which children develop each disorder without precursors?; and (c) Is there a continuation of DV from childhood to adulthood, or are adult cases new‐onset presentations?; (3) to obtain detailed information regarding psychopathology to understand which comorbid psychological disorders prevail and at which rate, in those suffering DV; (4) to develop and validate diagnostic tools specifically for DV; (5) to better establish urodynamic correlates of DV specific for different age groups; and (6) to generate prospective long‐term data regarding the efficacy of different treatment options and management strategies.

Conclusions

The future research recommendations of this TT may improve our management of DV in children and adults.
Bladder‐bowel interactions: Do we understand pelvic organ cross‐sensitization? International Consultation on Incontinence Research Society (ICI‐RS) 2018
Authors: Panicker Jalesh N. , Marcelissen Tom , von Gontard Alexander , Vrijens Desiree , Abrams Paul , Wyndaele Michel
Published: December 2019

Aims

Mounting evidence from experimental animal and human studies suggests that cross‐sensitization exists between different organs. Lower urinary tract (LUT) and bowel dysfunction commonly overlap, and the role of cross‐sensitization between pelvic visceral organs is uncertain.

Methods

At the International Consultation on Incontinence Research Society (ICI‐RS) meeting in 2018, a panel of clinicians participated in a discussion on bladder and bowel interactions in the context of pelvic organ cross‐sensitization.

Results

Bladder and bowel problems commonly co‐occur in adults and children across different disorders, and the mechanism responsible for overlapping dysfunction is uncertain in most instances. At a neuronal level, cross‐sensitization occurs as a result of afferent signaling from the LUT and lower bowel through different central and peripheral mechanisms. Studies in animals and humans have demonstrated evidence for cross‐organ sensitization following experimental inflammation or distension of the lower bowel, affecting the LUT. Nerve stimulation is an effective treatment for different functional LUT and bowel disorders, and whether this treatment may influence cross‐organ sensitization remains uncertain. The role of physiologically dormant C‐fibers, the bladder‐gut‐brain axis, and gut microbiome in cross‐sensitization are speculative.

Conclusion

Recommendations for research were made to explore the role of cross‐organ sensitization in the pathogenesis of co‐occurring LUT and bowel dysfunction in humans.
Assessment of colistimethate sodium (COLOBREATHE) risk minimization measures implemented in the European Union: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Kaplan Sigal , Patino Oliver , Rainville Carolyn , Madison Terri
Published: December 2019

Purpose

To assess the effectiveness of additional risk minimization measures (aRMMs) implemented in Europe for colistimethate sodium (CMS) among healthcare professionals (HCPs) and patients/caregivers following safety concerns regarding incorrect use of CMS delivered via Turbospin inhaler.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted among HCPs and patients/caregivers in Austria, Denmark, France, Germany, The Netherlands, and the United Kingdom between September 2016 and March 2018. Knowledge of the educational materials was assessed regarding common side effects, correct use of CMS and Turbospin inhaler, and capsule breakage. Awareness, receipt, and utilization of the aRMMs were also evaluated.

Results

Among 124 HCPs surveyed, the majority acknowledged awareness (86.2%), receipt (91.0%), and utilization (81.6%) of the CMS educational materials and were knowledgeable about the common CMS side effects (93.2%). Most HCPs correctly answered most questions regarding the proper use of CMS (>90%), yet only half knew how to correctly use the Turbospin inhaler (53.2%). Knowledge about capsule breakage was moderate (67.5%). Of the 29 patients/caregivers surveyed, almost half were aware of the educational materials (48.1%); of these, 69.2% received and used the materials. Most patients/caregivers were knowledgeable about the common CMS side effects (81.5%) and proper CMS use (>85%); however, knowledge about correct Turbospin inhaler use and potential for capsule breakage was moderate to low (48.1% and 37.9%, respectively).

Conclusions

HCPs and patients/caregivers have good knowledge about the common side effects associated with CMS. However, knowledge of correct use of the Turbospin inhaler and capsule breakage was moderate to low.
New insights into pediatric community‐acquired pneumonia gained from untargeted metabolomics: A preliminary study
Authors: Del Borrello Giovanni , Stocchero Matteo , Giordano Giuseppe , Pirillo Paola , Zanconato Stefania , Da Dalt Liviana , Carraro Silvia , Esposito Susanna , Baraldi Eugenio
Published: December 2019

Abstracts

Background

Available diagnostics often fail to distinguish viral from bacterial causes of pediatric community‐acquired pneumonia (pCAP). Metabolomics, which aims at characterizing diseases based on their metabolic signatures, has been applied to expand pathophysiological understanding of many diseases. In this exploratory study, we used the untargeted metabolomic analysis to shed new light on the etiology of pCAP.

Methods

Liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry was used to quantify the metabolite content of urine samples collected from children hospitalized for CAP of pneumococcal or viral etiology, ascertained using a conservative algorithm combining microbiological and biochemical data.

Results

Fifty‐nine children with CAP were enrolled over 16 months. Pneumococcal and viral cases were distinguished by means of a multivariate model based on 93 metabolites, 20 of which were identified and considered as putative biomarkers. Among these, six metabolites belonged to the adrenal steroid synthesis and degradation pathway.

Conclusions

This preliminary study suggests that viral and pneumococcal pneumonia differently affect the systemic metabolome, with a stronger disruption of the adrenal steroid pathway in pneumococcal pneumonia. This finding may lead to the discovery of novel diagnostic biomarkers and bring us closer to personalized therapy for pCAP.
Cover Image, Volume 76, Issue 1
Authors: Ge Yang , Liu Pingping , Zhang Liu , Snyder William E , Smith Olivia M , Shi Wangpeng
Published: December 2019

The front cover image is based on the Original Article A sticky situation: honeydew of the pear psylla disrupts feeding by its predator Orius sauteri by Wang‐Peng Shi et al., https://doi.org/10.1002/ps.5498.

image
Hydride Vapor‐Phase Epitaxy Reactor for Bulk GaN Growth
Authors: Voronenkov Vladislav , Bochkareva Natalia , Zubrilov Andrey , Lelikov Yuri , Gorbunov Ruslan , Latyshev Philipp , Shreter Yuri
Published: December 2019

An hydride vapor‐phase epitaxy reactor for the growth of bulk GaN crystals with a diameter of 50 mm is developed. Growth rate nonuniformity of 1% is achieved using an axisymmetric vertical gas injector with stagnation point flow. Chemically resistant refractory materials are used instead of quartz in the reactor hot zone. High‐capacity external gallium precursor sources are developed for the nonstop growth of the bulk GaN layers. A load‐lock vacuum chamber and a dry in situ growth chamber cleaning are implemented to improve the growth process reproducibility. Freestanding GaN crystals with a diameter of 50 mm are grown with the reactor.
Efficiency Enhancement Mechanism of an Underlying Layer in GaInN‐Based Green Light–Emitting Diodes
Authors: Han Dong-Pyo , Ishimoto Seiji , Mano Ryoya , Lu Weifang , Iwaya Motoaki , Takeuchi Tetsuya , Kamiyama Satoshi , Akasaki Isamu
Published: December 2019

To investigate the mechanism of efficiency enhancement achieved by introducing underlying layers (ULs) in green light–emitting diodes (LEDs), this study compares green GaInN‐based LEDs with an identical epitaxial structure and chip structure comprising different types of ULs, i.e., without an UL or with a GaInN or AlInN UL. To this end, the samples are analyzed with respect to several characteristics, such as their electroluminescence spectra, internal quantum efficiency, recombination coefficients, joint density of states, localized state, and Stokes shift. Based on these analyses and considerations, a mechanism of efficiency enhancement achieved by introducing ULs is proposed, and the degradation mechanisms responsible for the green gap, efficiency droop, and electrical potential drop in green LEDs are also discussed. The results show that the piezoelectric field in the In‐clustering region and the nonradiative recombination center simultaneously play crucial roles in the degradation mechanisms for green LEDs.
The Influence of Ba2+ Ions on the Physical Properties of Perovskite Nanoparticles La1−xBaxFeO3 Synthesized by Sol–Gel Method
Authors: Lin Qing , Yang Xingxing , Lin Jinpei , He Yun , Dong Jianghui , Wang Liping
Published: December 2019

The sol–gel autocombustion preparation is used to synthesize La1–xBaxFeO3 (x = 0–0.25) nanoparticles, and the effect of Ba2+ doping amount is investigated. For the purpose of analysis, it is found that the perovskite orthorhombic structure of LaFeO3 did not change with increasing doping amounts of Ba2+ ions. The space group is still Pnma (62). The X‐ray diffraction (XRD) spectra show the BaCO3 second phase when x ≥ 0.15. In addition, Fourier‐transform infrared (FT‐IR) confirms the antisymmetric stretching vibration in the Fe–O–Fe bond of the octahedron FeO6. Furthermore, vibrating sample magnetometer measurements show that the amount of Ba2+ dopants can improve the magnetic properties of the sample. The magnetic properties of the samples can also be greatly influenced by the calcination temperature.
Exact inference for the random‐effect model for meta‐analyses with rare events
Authors: Gronsbell Jessica , Hong Chuan , Nie Lei , Lu Ying , Tian Lu
Published: December 2019

Meta‐analysis allows for the aggregation of results from multiple studies to improve statistical inference for the parameter of interest. In recent years, random‐effect meta‐analysis has been employed to synthesize estimates of incidence rates of adverse events across heterogeneous clinical trials to evaluate treatment safety. However, the validity of existing approaches relies on asymptotic approximation as the number of studies becomes large. In practice, a limited number of trials are typically available for analysis. Moreover, adverse events are typically rare; thus, study‐specific incidence rate estimates may be unstable or undefined. In this paper, we present a method for construction of an exact confidence interval for the location parameter of the beta‐binomial model through inversion of exact tests. The coverage level of the proposed confidence interval is guaranteed to achieve at least the nominal level, regardless of the number of studies or the with‐in study sample size, making it particularly applicable to the study of rare‐event data.
Transformation towards smart factory system: Examining new job profiles and competencies
Authors: Jerman Andrej , Pejić Bach Mirjana , Aleksić Ana
Published: December 2019

This paper increases understanding of the concept of smart factories system and its implementation in the automotive industry in terms of addressing necessary changes in human aspect of system, namely, employees' competencies, as well as to new job profiles. A qualitative research approach was used by utilizing a case study of the automotive industry in Slovenia. For the purpose of data collection, we used a semistructured interview on a sample of experts from governmental, educational, and private automotive sectors. In order to analyse gathered data, we used the method of content analysis. Research results indicate that significant changes are essential in the transformation from traditional to a smart factory system, especially regarding organizational mindset, the architecture of system and its processes, and the inclusion of Industry 4.0 technologies at all levels. Also, results indicate changes are essential regarding future job profiles and competencies. Although there are different perceptions about future jobs and competencies needed for Industry 4.0‐induced changes, depending on the sector in which the expert is employed, there is an overall agreement that job profiles related to programming, mechatronics, robotics, data analysis, Internet of Things, design, and maintenance of smart systems, process analysis, and bionics are the new job profiles needed in smart factory systems. In addition to the high emphasis on technical skill and knowledge, soft competencies are considered important, as well as competencies of continues learning, flexibility, creativity, problem solving, critical, and analytical thinking. Our findings possess important implications for conceptualizing job profiles and competencies in smart factories systems and practical implications for managers concerned with human resource management activities. We provide an outlook to the future job profiles that are underresearched, especially in the field of smart manufacturing. As well, our paper provides insight into the importance of different competencies recognized as crucial for complete functioning and optimal performance of smart factories system. This study provides a starting point for further research regarding human resource management issues in smart factories in the automotive sector, especially related to future job profiles and employee competencies, and their role in system performance.
R30 mit feuerverzinkten Stahl‐ und Verbundkonstruktionen – Bemessungshilfen
Authors: Mensinger Martin , Gaigl Christian
Published: December 2019

Herrn Prof. Dr.‐Ing. Peter Schaumann zum 65. Geburtstag gewidmet

Durch Forschungsergebnisse der Technischen Universität München [1–5] konnte gezeigt werden, dass eine Feuerverzinkung im Brandfall einen positiven Einfluss auf das Erwärmungsverhalten von Stahlbauteilen der Kategorien A und B hat. Grund für die langsamere Erwärmung ist ein kleinerer, variabler Emissionsgrad von feuerverzinkten Oberflächen im Vergleich zu unverzinkten Stahlbauteilen. Im Auftrag des Gemeinschaftsausschusses Verzinken e. V. wurden nun Bemessungshilfen erarbeitet, die eine praxisgerechte einfache Anwendung der Forschungsergebnisse erlauben.
Ermüdung radbelasteter Quersteifenanschlüsse in leichten Kranbahnträgern
Authors: Euler Mathias , Kuhlmann Ulrike
Published: December 2019

Herrn Prof. Dr.‐Ing. Peter Schaumann zum 65. Geburtstag gewidmet

Die Unterstützungskonstruktion eines Brückenkrans unterliegt einer zyklischen Beanspruchung. Zu dieser Konstruktion zählen insbesondere die Kranbahnträger, die vom Kran bei jeder Kranfahrt überrollt werden. Daher ist ihre Ermüdungssicherheit nach der Bemessungsnorm DIN EN 1993‐1‐9 nachzuweisen. Für diesen Nachweis müssen die kritischen Konstruktionsdetails des Kranbahnträgers entsprechenden Kerbfällen zugeordnet werden. Allerdings enthält die Bemessungsnorm nur wenige kranbahnspezifische Kerbfälle, die die lokale Belastung des Kranbahnträgers durch die Laufräder des Krans berücksichtigen. Auf der Grundlage von experimentellen Untersuchungen zum Ermüdungsverhalten von radbelasteten Flansch‐Steg‐Verbindungen wird für ein weiteres kranbahnspezifisches Konstruktionsdetail, den Quersteifenanschluss im Radlasteinleitungsbereich leichter Kranbahnträger, eine Bemessungsempfehlung entwickelt.
Molecular phylogeny ofTrigonostemonand its relatives (Euphorbiaceae)
Authors: Yu Ren‐Yong , Slik Ferry J.W. , van Welzen Peter C.
Published: December 2019

Trigonostemon,Dimorphocalyx,TritaxisandOstodesare tropical Asian genera that are very similar in morphology. The former three genera have been treated either as a single genusTrigonostemons.l. or as separate genera. A molecular phylogeny based on the nuclear ITS and chloroplasttrnKintron,trnT‐LandtrnL‐Fsequences reveals thatTrigonostemonis a monophyletic group, andDimorphocalyxandTritaxistogether form another monophyletic group separate fromTrigonostemon. Within the genusTrigonostemon, a strong correlation between the molecular phylogeny and pollen morphology was found. It demonstrates two potential evolutionary directions for the common “croton pattern” ornamentation of pollen in the genus: the subunits that form the “croton pattern” ornamentation tend to reduce to spines or they tend to merge in the later‐developed groups. The correlation between the molecular phylogeny and macromorphology ofTrigonostemonis discussed, and a new infrageneric classification with four sections is provided.Dimorphocalyxis reduced toTritaxis, the older generic name.
Ameliorative effects of vitamin B17 on the kidney against Ehrlich ascites carcinoma induced renal toxicity in mice
Authors: Mutar Thulfiqar F. , Tousson Ehab , Hafez Ezar , Abo Gazia Maha , Salem Seham B.
Published: December 2019

Cancer is the major cause of death and many factors that lead to its occurrences, such as environmental pollution and pesticides and other factors. Ehrlich carcinoma development depends on many things associated with the environment, nutrition, personal habits, and family history. The present study aimed to evaluate the potential protective effects of vitamin B17 (VB17) against Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC) that induced kidney toxicity in female mice. The mice were divided into five groups (first group, control group; second group, VB17 group; third group, EAC group; fourth group, pretreated EAC with VB17; fifth group, cotreated EAC with VB17). Results showed the VB17 in pretreated (G4) and cotreated (G5) groups lead to an improvement in DNA damage and cytological examination, in addition significantly (P < .05) increase in Na+, red blood cell, hemoglobin, hematocrit value, mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), and MCH concentration, whereas significantly (P < .05) decrease in urea, creatinine, K+, platelets, and white blood cells while insignificant (P < .05) changes in mean corpuscular volume when compared to the EAC group. Many histopathological changes were observed in kidney sections in EAC as marked damage and degenerated, glomerular atrophy, the Malpighian corpuscles that lost their characteristic configuration. On the other hand, a moderate improvement and arrangement in the kidney histological structure in pretreated VB17 + EAC, while a mild enhancement and arrangement of the kidney structure in cotreated EAC + VB17. In addition, depletion in renal P53 and PCNA protein expression compared with the EAC group. It could be concluded that VB17 has a potential renal protective effect against EAC cells induced kidney injury.
Fractional‐order sliding mode control for damping of subsynchronous control interaction in DFIG‐based wind farms
Authors: Li Penghan , Xiong Linyun , Wang Ziqiang , Ma Meiling , Wang Jie
Published: December 2019

This paper proposes a fractional‐order sliding mode control (FOSMC) based on feedback linearization (FL) technique to mitigate subsynchronous control interaction (SSCI) in doubly fed induction generator (DFIG)–based wind farms connected to series‐compensated transmission lines. A linearized form of the studied system is obtained with the use of FL, which leads to reduced system order and small computational burden. Then the FOSMC is designed for grid‐side converter (GSC) to stabilize SSCI and to provide a considerable robustness against external disturbances and parameter uncertainties. For FOSMC parameter tuning, genetic algorithm (GA) is performed through MATLAB/SIMULINK. Time‐domain simulation are carried out to evaluate the effectiveness of the FOSMC in mitigating SSCI at varied operating conditions, and the superior performance of the proposed control is demonstrated as compared with conventional vector control (VC), feedback linearization sliding mode control (FLSMC), high‐order sliding mode control (HOSMC).
Precision phenomenology with MCFM
Authors: Campbell John , Neumann Tobias
Published: December 2019

Abstract

Without proper control of numerical and methodological errors in theoretical predictions at the per mille level it is not possible to study the effect of input parameters in current hadron-collider measurements at the required precision. We present the new version of the parton-level code MCFM-9.0 that achieves this requirement through its highly-parallelized nature, significant performance improvements and new features. An automatic differential jettiness slicing cutoff extrapolation is introduced to assess the cutoff dependence of all results, thus ensuring their reliability and potentially improving fixed- cutoff results by an order of magnitude. The efficient differential study of PDF uncertainties and PDF set differences at NNLO, for multiple PDF sets simultaneously, is achieved by exploiting correlations. We use these improvements to study uncertainties and PDF sensitivity at NNLO, using 371 PDF set members. The work described here permits NNLO studies that were previously prohibitively expensive, and lays the groundwork necessary for a future implementation of NNLO calculations with a jet at Born level in MCFM.
R-parity violating decays of Bino neutralino LSPs at the LHC
Authors: Dumitru Sebastian , Herwig Christian , Ovrut Burt A.
Published: December 2019

Abstract

The R-parity violating decays of Bino neutralino LSPs are analyzed within the context of the B − L MSSM “heterotic standard model”. These LSPs correspond to statistically determined initial soft supersymmetry breaking parameters which, when evolved using the renormalization group equations, lead to an effective theory satisfying all phenomenological requirements; including the observed electroweak vector boson masses and the Higgs mass. The explicit RPV decay channels of these LSPs into standard model particles, the analytic and numerical decay rates and the associated branching ratios are presented. The analysis of these quantities breaks into two separate calculations; first, for Bino neutralino LSPs with mass larger than M

W

± and, second, when the Bino neutralino mass is smaller than the electroweak scale. The RPV decay processes in both of these regions is analyzed in detail. The decay lengths of these RPV interactions are discussed. It is shown that for heavy Bino neutralino LSPs the vast majority of these decays are “prompt”, although a small, but calculable, number correspond to “displaced” decays of various lengths. The situation is reversed for light Bino LSPs, only a small number of which can RPV decay promptly. The relation of these results to the neutrino hierarchy — either normal or inverted — is discussed in detail.
Large-N ℂℙN −1 sigma model on a Euclidean torus: uniqueness and stability of the vacuum
Authors: Bolognesi Stefano , Gudnason Sven Bjarke , Konishi Kenichi , Ohashi Keisuke
Published: December 2019

Abstract

In this paper we examine analytically the large-N gap equation and its solution for the 2D ℂℙ
N −1 sigma model defined on a Euclidean spacetime torus of arbitrary shape and size (L, β), β being the inverse temperature. We find that the system has a unique homogeneous phase, with the ℂℙ
N −1 fields n

i
acquiring a dynamically generated mass (λ) ≥ Λ2 (analogous to the mass gap of SU(N ) Yang-Mills theory in 4D), for any β and L. Several related topics in the recent literature are discussed. One concerns the possibility, which turns out to be excluded according to our analysis, of a “Higgs-like” — or deconfinement — phase at small L and at zero temperature. Another topics involves “soliton-like” (inhomogeneous) solutions of the generalized gap equation, which we do not find. A related question concerns a possible instability of the standard ℂℙ
N −1 vacuum on R2, which is shown not to occur. In all cases, the difference in the conclusions can be traced to the existence of certain zeromodes and their proper treatment. The ℂℙ
N −1 model with twisted boundary conditions is also analyzed. The θ dependence and different limits involving N , β and L are briefly discussed.
Two-loop scattering amplitudes: double-forward limit and colour-kinematics duality
Authors: Geyer Yvonne , Monteiro Ricardo , Stark-Muchão Ricardo
Published: December 2019

Abstract

We propose new formulae for the two-loop n-point D-dimensional integrands of scattering amplitudes in Yang-Mills theory and gravity. The loop integrands are written as a double-forward limit of tree-level trivalent diagrams, and are inferred from the formalism of the two-loop scattering equations. We discuss the relationship between the formulae for non-supersymmetric theories and the Neveu-Schwarz sector of the formulae for maximally supersymmetric theories, which can be derived from ambitwistor strings. An important property of the loop integrands is that they are expressed in a representation that includes linear-type propagators. This representation exhibits a loop-level version of the colour- kinematics duality, which follows directly from tree level via the double-forward limit.
Off-diagonal Bethe Ansatz for the $$ {D}_3^{(1)} $$ model
Authors: Li Guang-Liang , Cao Junpeng , Xue Panpan , Hao Kun , Sun Pei , Yang Wen-Li , Shi Kangjie , Wang Yupeng
Published: December 2019

Abstract

The exact solutions of the

$$ {D}_3^{(1)} $$

D
3

1

model (or the so(6) quantum spin chain) with either periodic or general integrable open boundary conditions are obtained by using the off-diagonal Bethe Ansatz. From the fusion, the complete operator product identities are obtained, which are sufficient to enable us to determine spectrum of the system. Eigenvalues of the fused transfer matrices are constructed by the T - Q relations for the periodic case and by the inhomogeneous T- Q one for the non-diagonal boundary reflection case. The present method can be generalized to deal with the

$$ {D}_n^{(1)} $$

D
n

1

model directly.
Flavon alignments from orbifolding: SU(5) × SU(3) model with 𝕋6/∆(54)
Authors: de Anda Francisco J. , King Stephen F. , Perdomo Elena , Vaudrevange Patrick K. S.
Published: December 2019

Abstract

We systematically develop the formalism necessary for ensuring that boundary conditions of flavon fields in extra dimensions are consistent with heterotic string theory. Having developed a set of consistency conditions on the boundary conditions, we explore a series of examples of orbifolds in various dimensions to see which ones can satisfy them. In addition we impose the further phenomenological requirements of having non-trivial flavon vacuum alignments and also of having quarks and leptons located appropriately in extra dimensions. The minimal successful case seems to be a 10d theory with a SU(3)fl gauged flavour symmetry, where the six-dimensional torus is compactified on a 𝕋6
/∆(54) orbifold. We construct a realistic SU(5) grand unified theory along these lines, leading to tribimaximal-reactor lepton mixing, which we show to be consistent with current neutrino data.
Scalarization of compact stars in the scalar-Gauss-Bonnet gravity
Authors: Peng Yan
Published: December 2019

Abstract

We study scalarization of horizonless neutral compact reflecting stars. In our model, the scalar hair can be induced by the coupling of static scalar fields to the Gauss-Bonnet invariant. We analytically obtain lower bounds on the coupling parameter. Below the bound, the static scalar hair cannot form. And above the bound, we numerically get the discrete coupling parameter that can support scalar hairs outside stars. We also disclose effects of model parameters on the discrete coupling parameter.
Are terrestrial isopods able to use stridulation and vibrational communication as forms of intra and interspecific signaling and defense strategies as insects do? A preliminary study in Armadillo officinalis
Authors: Cividini Sofia , Sfenthourakis Spyros , Montesanto Giuseppe
Published: December 2019

The capability of producing sounds and vibrations is well known in insects and is thought to be a form of intra- and interspecific communication. Sounds and vibrations are used and modulated for several aims such as interacting with conspecifics, getting information from the environment, and defending against predators. This phenomenon is less known but also present in other arthropods, including a few roller-type terrestrial isopods. In this study, we used a Y-shape test apparatus to investigate the behavior of adult individuals ofArmadillo officinalisDuméril, 1816 (Crustacea: Isopoda: Oniscidea) when exposed to two particular vibrational stimuli, namely species-specific stridulations and non-specific substrate-borne vibrations. Our results showed that adults ofA. officinalissignificantly react to the presence of both types of vibrational stimuli, by moving away from the vibrational source as if they experienced these vibrations as a sign of danger or disturbance.A. officinaliscan produce stridulations only when it rolls into a ball during the so-called conglobation, a possible defense mechanism against predators. Stridulation might thus be a secondary form of defense used during conglobation to deter a predator following contact with it and might be experienced as an alert by conspecifics nearby. The high sensitivity to non-specific substrate-borne vibrations might provideA. officinaliswith the possibility to anticipate dangers and adverse conditions, giving it a better chance of survival.
Non-Gaussian Lagrangian Stochastic Model for Wind Field Simulation in the Surface Layer
Authors: Liu Chao , Fu Li , Yang Dan , Miller David R. , Wang Junming
Published: December 2019

Wind field simulation in the surface layer is often used to manage natural resources in terms of air quality, gene flow (through pollen drift), and plant disease transmission (spore dispersion). Although Lagrangian stochastic (LS) models describe stochastic wind behaviors, such models assume that wind velocities follow Gaussian distributions. However, measured surface-layer wind velocities show a strong skewness and kurtosis. This paper presents an improved model, a non-Gaussian LS model, which incorporates controllable non-Gaussian random variables to simulate the targeted non-Gaussian velocity distribution with more accurate skewness and kurtosis. Wind velocity statistics generated by the non-Gaussian model are evaluated by using the field data from the Cooperative Atmospheric Surface Exchange Study, October 1999 experimental dataset and comparing the data with statistics from the original Gaussian model. Results show that the non-Gaussian model improves the wind trajectory simulation by stably producing precise skewness and kurtosis in simulated wind velocities without sacrificing other features of the traditional Gaussian LS model, such as the accuracy in the mean and variance of simulated velocities. This improvement also leads to better accuracy in friction velocity (i.e., a coupling of three-dimensional velocities). The model can also accommodate various non-Gaussian wind fields and a wide range of skewness–kurtosis combinations. Moreover, improved skewness and kurtosis in the simulated velocity will result in a significantly different dispersion for wind/particle simulations. Thus, the non-Gaussian model is worth applying to wind field simulation in the surface layer.
Neuronal nitric oxide synthase regulation of calcium cycling in ventricular cardiomyocytes is independent of Cav1.2 channel modulation under basal conditions
Authors: Ebner Janine , Cagalinec Michal , Kubista Helmut , Todt Hannes , Szabo Petra L. , Kiss Attila , Podesser Bruno K. , Cserne Szappanos Henrietta , Hool Livia C. , Hilber Karlheinz , Koenig Xaver
Published: December 2019

Neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) is considered a regulator of Cav1.2 L-type Ca2+ channels and downstream Ca2+ cycling in the heart. The commonest view is that nitric oxide (NO), generated by nNOS activity in cardiomyocytes, reduces the currents through Cav1.2 channels. This gives rise to a diminished Ca2+ release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum, and finally reduced contractility. Here, we report that nNOS inhibitor substances significantly increase intracellular Ca2+ transients in ventricular cardiomyocytes derived from adult mouse and rat hearts. This is consistent with an inhibitory effect of nNOS/NO activity on Ca2+ cycling and contractility. Whole cell currents through L-type Ca2+ channels in rodent myocytes, on the other hand, were not substantially affected by the application of various NOS inhibitors, or application of a NO donor substance. Moreover, the presence of NO donors had no effect on the single-channel open probability of purified human Cav1.2 channel protein reconstituted in artificial liposomes. These results indicate that nNOS/NO activity does not directly modify Cav1.2 channel function. We conclude that—against the currently prevailing view—basal Cav1.2 channel activity in ventricular cardiomyocytes is not substantially regulated by nNOS activity and NO. Hence, nNOS/NO inhibition of Ca2+ cycling and contractility occurs independently of direct regulation of Cav1.2 channels by NO.
A rare complication of systemic lupus erythematosus in a 9-year-old girl: Questions
Authors: Gliwińska Aleksandra , Bjanid Omar , Adamczyk Piotr , Czubilińska-Łada Justyna , Dzienniak Anna , Morawiecka-Pietrzak Małgorzata , Roszkowska-Bjanid Dagmara , Morawiec-Knysak Aurelia , Szczepańska Maria
Published: December 2019

Serious renal involvement in systemic diseases is common and generally constitutes a pivotal prognostic factor, making those pathology frequently seen in nephrology departments. Authors describe the case of a nine-year-old girl with lupus nephritis. After admission the patient’s state deteriorated over a period of a few days, with an unremitting high-grade fever, significant weakness and drowsiness, generalized erythema, and decrease of the kidney function to eGFR nadir of 56 ml/min/1,73m 2. Treatment with pulsed methylprednisolone was started. After the first pulse the general state of the patient improved slightly, although laboratory tests showed an alarming evolution, with the exacerbation of anemia, leukopenia, neutropenia, increase of serum CRP concentration, extremely high D-dimer concentration and increase in activity of lactate dehydrogenase. The concentration of ferritin rose reaching the level of 540 μg/l, triglicerydes level was also high. Intravenous cyclophosphamide pulse therapy was added to the ongoing steroid treatment, and resulted in a radical patient improvement. Authors underline that it seems important to be aware of rare, non-renal, but potentially devastating complications of systemic diseases, like in this clinical case: the secondary hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH). When HLH complicates a rheumatic disease, it is also referred to as macrophage activation syndrome (MAS). Unfortunately treatment of MAS is still based on reports provided by individual centres and gathered own experiences so drawing up unambiguous diagnostic criteria will be valuable in future. The treatment should be individually tailored, and more specific evidence-based recommendations are needed.
Benefits of using the Brief Pain Inventory in patients with cancer pain: an intervention study conducted in Swedish hospitals
Authors: Andersson Viveka , Bergman Stefan , Henoch Ingela , Simonsson Hanna , Ahlberg Karin
Published: December 2019

Purpose

The prevalence of cancer pain is too high. There is a need for improvement of pain management in cancer care. The aim of this study was to explore whether the use of the multidimensional pain assessment questionnaire Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) could improve pain relief in hospitalized patients with cancer.

Methods

A controlled intervention study was performed at two hospitals in western Sweden, 264 patients were included, 132 formed a control group and 132 an intervention group. All participants completed the BPI and the Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale (ESAS) at baseline. Only the researcher had access to questionnaires from the control group. The completed forms from the intervention group were presented to the patients’ care team. A follow-up took place after 2–5 days when patients in both groups rated the scales a second time.

Results

In the intervention group, significant differences in all measured items of the BPI were found at follow-up compared with baseline. Symptoms rated with the ESAS also decreased significantly, except shortness of breath. At follow-up, a significant increase in regular use of paracetamol, anti-neuropathic pain drugs and opioids was found, as well as elevated doses of fixed-schedule opioids. In the control group, differences between baseline and follow-up were significant regarding average pain and worst pain over the past 24 h.

Conclusion

Presenting the patient-reported BPI to the care team helped them to focus on patients’ pain, identify pain mechanisms and adjust analgesics accordingly. A possible explanation for the results is changes in the medication prescribed.
Spectroscopic and biochemical insight into an electron-bifurcating [FeFe] hydrogenase
Authors: Chongdar Nipa , Pawlak Krzysztof , Rüdiger Olaf , Reijerse Edward J. , Rodríguez-Maciá Patricia , Lubitz Wolfgang , Birrell James A. , Ogata Hideaki
Published: December 2019

The heterotrimeric electron-bifurcating [FeFe] hydrogenase (HydABC) fromThermotoga maritima(Tm) couples the endergonic reduction of protons (H+) by dihydronicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) (∆G0 ≈ 18 kJ mol−1) to the exergonic reduction of H+by reduced ferredoxin (Fdred) (∆G0 ≈ − 16 kJ mol−1). The specific mechanism by which HydABC functions is not understood. In the current study, we describe the biochemical and spectroscopic characterization ofTmHydABC recombinantly produced inEscherichia coliand artificially maturated with a synthetic diiron cofactor. We found thatTmHydABC catalyzed the hydrogen (H2)-dependent reduction of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) in the presence of oxidized ferredoxin (Fdox) at a rate of  ≈17 μmol NADH min−1 mg−1. Our data suggest that only one flavin is present in the enzyme and is not likely to be the site of electron bifurcation. FTIR and EPR spectroscopy, as well as FTIR spectroelectrochemistry, demonstrated that the active site for H2conversion, the H-cluster, inTmHydABC behaves essentially the same as in prototypical [FeFe] hydrogenases, and is most likely also not the site of electron bifurcation. The implications of these results are discussed with respect to the current hypotheses on the electron bifurcation mechanism of [FeFe] hydrogenases. Overall, the results provide insight into the electron-bifurcating mechanism and present a well-defined system for further investigations of this fascinating class of [FeFe] hydrogenases.

Graphic abstract
Phase I study of TAS-115, a novel oral multi-kinase inhibitor, in patients with advanced solid tumors
Authors: Doi Toshihiko , Matsubara Nobuaki , Kawai Akira , Naka Norifumi , Takahashi Shunji , Uemura Hiroji , Yamamoto Noboru
Published: December 2019

TAS-115 is a novel MET, VEGFR, FMS and PDGFR inhibitor, developed to improve the continuity of drug administration with a relatively short half-life. We assessed its tolerability, safety, pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and pharmacodynamics in patients with solid tumors. This open-label, dose-escalation phase I study of TAS-115 consisted of three parts: part 1 (TAS-115 was administered orally once daily [SID]); part 2 and an expansion part (SID in a 5 days on/2 days off [5-on/2-off] schedule for 21 days per cycle). In part 1 (200–800 mg SID administered to 21 patients), systemic exposure after single administration increased almost dose-proportionally. Three dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs) were observed in three patients: grade 3 rash (650 mg), thrombocytopenia with bleeding, and rash (800 mg). The maximum tolerated dose (MTD) was determined as 650 mg SID. In part 2, the 5-on/2-off schedule was evaluated at the MTD to improve treatment exposure. No DLTs were observed and no patients required treatment interruption in cycle 1. During part 2 and the expansion part (N = 61), grade ≥3 treatment-related adverse events were reported in 47 patients, with neutropenia (24.6%), hypophosphatemia (21.3%), anemia, and thrombocytopenia (14.8% each), and leukocytopenia (11.5%) occurring in ≥10% of patients. The best overall response was stable disease in 31 of 82 patients (37.8%). An apparent reduction in fluorodesoxyglucose-uptake and bone scan index was observed in some patients. TAS-115 was generally well tolerated, with manageable toxicities and recommended phase II dose was estimated as 650 mg SID, 5-on/2-off. Furthermore, promising antitumor activity was observed.
Early years teachers and digital literacies: Navigating a kaleidoscope of discourses
Authors: Daniels Karen , Bower Kim , Burnett Cathy , Escott Hugh , Hatton Amanda , Ehiyazaryan-White Ester , Monkhouse Jemma
Published: December 2019

For many young children in developed countries, family and community life is mediated by digital technology. Despite this, for early years educators, the process of integrating digital technologies into classroom practice raises a number of issues and tensions. In an attempt to gain insights from early years teachers, we draw from semi-structured interview data from ten practising teachers which explored their perspectives on digital technologies within their personal and professional lives, and of children’s use of digital technologies within and outside educational settings. Our analysis builds on previous work that suggests that teachers draw on multiple discourses related to conceptualisations of childhood when thinking about digital technology and young children. In this paper we contribute to these discussions, drawing specifically on examples from the data where teachers articulate their understandings of children’s use of digital technology where this relates directly to children’s literacy practices. We assert that narrow conceptualized notions of literacy, compounded by national imperatives to raise print literacy standards, add another layer of discursive complexity that comes to the fore when teachers are asked to provide a rationale for the promotion of digital literacies in early years classrooms. A broader framing of literacy therefore, is needed if the potential of digital technologies in the early years is to be realized.
QTL analysis for rice salinity tolerance and fine mapping of a candidate locus qSL7 for shoot length under salt stress
Authors: Jahan Noushin , Zhang Yu , Lv Yang , Song Mengqiu , Zhao Chunyan , Hu Haitao , Cui Yongtao , Wang Zhongwei , Yang Shenglong , Zhang Anpeng , Hu Jiang , Ye Guoyou , Qian Qian , Gao Zhenyu , Guo Longbiao
Published: December 2019

Salinity is one of the major abiotic stresses limiting rice production worldwide. Understanding the genetic basis of salinity tolerance is key for rice breeding. In this study, a recombinant inbred line (RIL) population derived from a super hybrid rice Liang–You–Pei–Jiu (LYP9) parents 93-11 and PA64s, exhibited variation in phenotypes including shoot length (SL), root length (RL), shoot fresh weight (SFW), root fresh weight (RFW), shoot dry weight (SDW), and root dry weight (RDW) under 50 and 100 mM NaCl stress. QTL analysis identified a total of 38 QTLs for these 6 traits under two distinct concentrations of salt, distributing on chromosomes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 10. A total of 21 QTLs were found in 6 stable loci. A novel major QTL, qSL7 for shoot length on chromosome 7 was identified in two distinct concentrations. A chromosome segment substitution line (CSSL) harboring the qSL7 locus from PA64s with 93-11 background was developed and exhibited higher SL value, higher K+ concentration, and lower Na+ concentration compared to 93-11. With BC5F2:3 derived from CSSL-qSL7/93-11, the qSL7 was fine mapped within a 252.9 kb region on chromosome 7 where 40 annotated genes located including, LOC_Os07g43530, which encodes a DNA-binding domain containing protein reported previously as a transcription factor playing a positive role in salt stress tolerance. Our study provides new genetic resources for improvement of salinity tolerance in rice breeding.
The insider view: tackling disabling practices in higher education institutions
Authors: Merchant Wendy , Read Stuart , D’Evelyn Stephen , Miles Caroline , Williams Val
Published: December 2019

This paper reports on research about the experiences of disabled staff members in UK universities, drawing on eleven semi-structured interviews with disabled staff in one university, alongside a group auto ethnography conducted by the first four authors, all of whom identified as disabled academics. Disability is generally considered to be predominantly an issue for students, both in practice and in the literature. By contrast, taking a social practice approach, we focused on the barriers faced by disabled employees, both overt and hidden. We found that disability was still viewed as a medical problem, and that disabled members of staff faced considerable extra labour in organising their own supports. We were often made to feel that we were unwanted and that we were ‘misfits’ in the institution. This paper contributes to theory by showing how social practices can become exclusionary, and how interconnections between practices matter. We discuss ways in which ableism, based on the ideal of ‘individual’ excellence, creates barriers for disabled staff. In the global context of Higher Education, the increasing marketization of universities in higher income countries creates a difficult climate for the values of inclusion.
Cercopithecine and Colobine Abundance Across Protected and Unprotected Land in the Greater Mahale Ecosystem, Western Tanzania
Authors: McLester Edward , Pintea Lilian , Stewart Fiona A. , Piel Alex K.
Published: December 2019

Most primates live in unprotected land where abundances and threats may differ from those in protected areas. We therefore need to establish population densities in both unprotected and protected areas to effectively inform conservation planning. The Greater Mahale Ecosystem in western Tanzania is a region of mixed protected status with seven cercopithecine and colobine species: blue (Cercopithecus mitis doggetti), red-tailed (C. ascanius schmidi), and vervet (Chlorocebus pygerythrus) monkeys; ashy red colobus (Piliocolobus tephrosceles); black-and-white colobus (Colobus angolensis); and olive (Papio anubis) and yellow (P. cynocephalus) baboons. These species may be threatened by increasing human activity; however, except for ashy red colobus, no data on local abundances are available. We walked over 350 km of line transects in legally protected (Village Forest Reserves) and unprotected general land between August 2011 and October 2012 to estimate densities of primates and human activity. Primate densities were consistently low across the Greater Mahale Ecosystem. Blue and red-tailed monkey and ashy red colobus densities were especially low compared to populations in predominantly forested landscapes. Primate and human activity densities did not differ significantly inside and outside of reserves. Low primate densities could be natural responses to the lower proportions and quality of riparian forest habitat in the region. High levels of human activity and the absence of significantly higher primate densities in reserves suggest unprotected land could provide important refuges for primates in the Greater Mahale Ecosystem. This result further reinforces a broad need to include unprotected areas in primate conservation strategies.