bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An approach for broad‐scale predictive soil properties mapping in low‐relief areas based on responses to solar radiation
Authors: Liu Feng , Rossiter David G. , Song Xiaodong , Zhang Gan‐Lin , Wu Huayong , Zhao Yuguo
Published: February 2020

In low‐relief areas, easily observed landscape features such as terrain and vegetation often do not spatially co‐vary with soil conditions to the level that they can be effectively used in predictive soil mapping. This paper proposes an approach to predicting soil spatial variation over such areas at a coarse resolution by constructing environmental covariates from the dynamic feedbacks of land surface in response to solar radiation. These feedbacks are captured by the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) land surface temperature observations as a time series of four temperatures per day (1:30 AM, 10:30 AM, 1:30 PM, 10:30 PM) converted into five covariates representing the features of the time series. The approach is demonstrated by mapping sand, silt, soil organic matter (SOM), and pH over a 12,000‐km2low‐relief area of Jiangsu Province, China, using a random forest model trained on 144 soil observations. The model was built and evaluated for 13 single days. For the non‐winter days with relatively high solar radiation, the covariates were strongly correlated with the soil properties, so that their use in predictive mapping gives good results for soil texture and useful results for SOM and pH. We also present plausible physical interpretations for the action of the covariates based on thermal properties of soils. We conclude that, despite the coarse resolution of the MODIS‐derived covariates, the proposed approach is a feasible solution for predictive soil mapping over large areas of low relief and should be investigated at finer resolutions.
Failure of intrathecal allogeneic mesenchymal stem cells to halt progressive demyelination in two boys with cerebral adrenoleukodystrophy
Authors: Gupta Ashish , Orchard Paul J. , Miller Weston P. , Nascene Dave R. , Raymond Gerald V. , Loes Daniel J. , McKenna David H. , Lund Troy C.
Published: February 2020

Cerebral adrenoleukodystrophy is an inflammatory demyelinating condition that is the result of a mutation in the X-linked ABCD1 gene, a peroxisomal very long chain fatty acid transporter. Although mutations in this gene result in adrenal insufficiency in the majority of affected individuals, 40% of those affected develop the demyelinating cerebral form, cerebral adrenoleukodystrophy (CALD). CALD is characterized by imaging findings of demyelination and contrast enhancement on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Although allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation can arrest progression of CALD early in its course, there is no accepted therapy for patients with advanced CALD. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been used in a variety of clinical trials to capitalize on their anti-inflammatory properties as well as promote tissue repair. We delivered MSCs via intrathecal (IT) route to two boys with rapidly advancing CALD. The first boy received three doses 1 week apart, whereas the second boy received a single dose of IT MSCs. We note delivery of IT MSCs was feasible and without complication. Follow-up MRI scans after IT MSC delivery showed progressive demyelination in the first patient and no change in demyelination or contrast enhancement in the second patient. Although the infusion of IT MSCs was safe, it did not halt CALD progression in this setting, and future studies should focus on patient selection and dose optimization.

Lessons learned Mesenchymal stem cells can be safely delivered to boys with cerebral adrenoleukodystrophy. Advanced cerebral adrenoleukodystrophy may not respond to intrathecal injection.  Significance statementCerebral adrenoleukodystrophy (CALD) is characterized by imaging findings of demyelination, inflammation, and contrast enhancement on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). There is no accepted therapy for patients with advanced cerebral adrenoleukodystrophy. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) were delivered via intrathecal (IT) route to two boys with rapidly advancing CALD in hopes of utilizing their anti-inflammatory ability to halt disease progression. The delivery of IT MSC was feasible and without complication, although follow-up MRI scans after IT MSC delivery showed progressive demyelination in both patients. This may have been due to the advanced nature of disease in the patients or an inadequate cell dose.
A modified model for predicting cyclic stress–strain relationship of fiber reinforced polymer grid reinforced engineered cementitious composites
Authors: Zhu Zhong‐Feng , Wang Wen‐Wei , Yin Shi‐Ping , Tian Jun , Zheng Yu‐Zhou , Huang Hui
Published: February 2020

To verify the universality of the cycling model of carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) grid reinforced engineered cementitious composite (CFRP‐ECC) material, a complementary experiment was carried out to investigate the cycling behavior of basalt fiber reinforced polymer (BFRP) grid reinforced ECC (BFRP‐ECC) composite material using both traditional measurement and digital image correlation system. Elastic modulus, layers, and surface treatment of BFRP grid and the loading schemes were considered as the major variables in the experiment. Compared with the CFRP‐ECC, BFRP‐ECC had better ultimate and residual deformation capabilities. Test results also showed that the effective strain of the internal BFRP grid reached 80–90% of the ultimate material strain, therefore, higher loading capacity of BFRP‐ECC material was obtained. A unified model was proposed to analyze the cyclic stress–strain behavior for both BFRP‐ECC and CFRP‐ECC materials. The validation of the analysis model was verified through comparisons between the predicted values and the test results.
Absolute Autocatalytic Amplification under Heterogenous Phase Conditions Involving Subsequent Hydride Transfer and a Hemiacetal Intermediate
Authors: Rotunno Giuseppe , Petersen Dirk , Amedjkouh Mohamed
Published: February 2020

Abstract: In contrast to the homogenous phase, absolute asymmetric amplification of pyridine alkanol is observed under heterogenous conditions. The reaction of iPr2Zn vapor on a solid powder of pyridine carbaldehyde induced autocatalytic amplification of chirality providing the alkanol product with an enantiopurity up to 90 % ee. In this study, side products were identified and their formation is traced back to redox pathways involving hydride transfer, namely a chiral ester resulting most probably from a disproportionation of the starting aldehyde into a hemiacetal and subsequent hydride loss following a Claisen‐Tishchenko mechanism. These observations provide new perspectives in the elucidation of the mechanism of amplification of chirality in the Soai reaction.
Cognate Instruction and Bilingual Students’ Improved Literacy Performance
Authors: García Georgia Earnest , Sacco Lena J. , Guerrero‐Arias Beatriz Eugenia
Published: February 2020

Spanish–English cognates (words from ancestrally related languages similar in appearance and meaning) are plentiful in students’ reading materials, but few researchers have documented elementary‐age bilingual (Spanish–English) students’ actual use of cognates. The authors drew from two qualitative research studies to show how bilingual students can be taught to use cognates to improve their spelling, writing, and reading. The third‐grade teacher's instruction included a cognate definition and examples, identification of the written similarities and differences in Spanish–English cognates, and the completion of cognate lessons related to the students’ English instruction on electricity. The fourth graders received cognate instruction to support their English reading comprehension. After instruction, most of the third graders used cognates for spelling and writing but not for reading, whereas most of the fourth graders used cognates to improve their English reading comprehension. Recommendations are made for how to teach cognates to bilingual students in bilingual, English‐only, and English as a second language classrooms.
Transformative Learning in a Mexican American Mothers’ Book Club
Authors: Ochoa Pablo F. , Quiroa Ruth E.
Published: February 2020

In this qualitative case study, the authors explored the responses of seven Mexican American mothers during a bilingual (Spanish–English) parent book club with a chapter book from their children’s elementary school literacy curriculum. The authors sought to better understand the findings of a previous study in which parents expressed new learning during comprehension‐related activities. Specifically, the authors examined how these women came to better understand their identities as literate individuals capable of assisting peers and their children’s literacy learning. Analysis of interviews and book club session transcripts, written and artistic artifacts, and researcher reflective journal entries revealed that during reflective dialogue, participants assumed all of Brooks and Browne’s (2012) homeplace reader positions (ethnic group, community, family, and peers) and the additional positions of empowerment and action.
3D/4D spatiotemporal image correlation (STIC) fetal echocardiography provides incremental benefit over 2D fetal echocardiography in predicting postnatal surgical approach in double‐outlet right ventricle
Authors: Karmegaraj B. , Kumar S. , Srimurugan B. , Sudhakar A. , Simpson J. M. , Vaidyanathan B.
Published: February 2020

Objective

To analyze the incremental benefit of 3D/4D spatiotemporal image correlation (STIC) fetal echocardiography over 2D fetal echocardiography with respect to the accuracy of identification of anatomic details crucial for surgical decision‐making and in predicting surgical approach in fetuses with double‐outlet right ventricle (DORV).

Methods

This was a retrospective study of fetuses with DORV which had undergone both 2D echocardiography and 3D/4D STIC echocardiography and which underwent surgery postnatally in a tertiary pediatric cardiac center in Kerala between October 2015 and March 2019. All such cases with normal atrial arrangement, concordant atrioventricular connections and balanced ventricles were included. 2D and 3D/4D STIC fetal echocardiographic data were analyzed by two experienced observers blinded to the other dataset. Anatomic variables crucial for surgical decision‐making, i.e. location and routability of the ventricular septal defect, relationship of the great arteries and presence of outflow obstruction, were compared between the two modalities with respect to agreement with postnatal echocardiography. The accuracy of prenatal prediction of the surgical pathway was compared between 2D and 3D/4D modalities with respect to the procedure undertaken.

Results

Included in the study were 22 fetuses with DORV which had undergone both 2D and 3D/4D imaging as well as postnatal surgery. Accuracy of prenatal interpretation of all four anatomic variables was significantly higher using 3D/4D STIC than using 2D fetal echocardiography (19/22 (86.4%) vs 8/22 (36.4%), P < 0.001). Surgical procedures included single‐stage repair in 14 (63.5%) patients and a multistage approach in eight (36.4%). Prenatal prediction of the surgical pathway was significantly more accurate on 3D/4D STIC than on 2D echocardiography (20/22 (90.9%) vs 12/22 (54.5%), P = 0.021). Prenatal predictive accuracy of single‐stage biventricular repair was significantly better for 3D/4D STIC than for 2D echocardiography (14/14 (100%) vs 8/14 (57.1%), P = 0.04).

Conclusion

Addition of 3D/4D STIC to conventional 2D fetal echocardiography confers incremental benefit on the accuracy of identification of anatomic details crucial for surgical decision‐making and the prediction of postnatal surgical approach in fetuses with DORV, thereby potentially aiding prenatal counseling. © 2020 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Design and analysis of computer experiments with quantitative and qualitative inputs: A selective review
Authors: Kang Xiaoning , Deng Xinwei
Published: February 2020

Computer experiment refers to the study of complex systems by using computer simulations to emulate the physical system. Design and analysis of computer experiments have attracted great attention in past decades. However, many computer experiments involve not only quantitative inputs, but also qualitative inputs, which make the design and analysis more challenging. The Latin hypercube design and its variants are widely used in computer experiments, but mainly for the quantitative inputs. Constructing desirable emulators for computer experiments with qualitative inputs also remains a challenging problem due to the discrete nature of qualitative inputs. In this review, we describe a set of statistical approaches for design and analysis of computer experiments with both quantitative and qualitative factors.

This article is categorized under:

Fundamental Concepts of Data and Knowledge > Key Design Issues in Data Mining

Algorithmic Development > Statistics
The lack of males due to illegal trapping is causing polygyny in the globally endangered Yellow Cardinal Gubernatrix cristata
Authors: Segura Luciano N. , Perelló Milton , Gress Néstor H. , Ontiveros Rafael
Published: February 2020

We present breeding data from the southernmost populations of the globally “Endangered” Yellow CardinalGubernatrix cristatain Argentina, confirming the presence of current breeding populations in the region. We monitored a family group in a nesting territory composed of one male and three females throughout the breeding season 2017–2018. We found a low nest success and productivity, probably associated with the lower contribution of the male, since it was attending three reproductive females simultaneously. We attribute this uncommon case of polygyny to the lack of males in the area caused by the high intensity of male trapping for illegal trade.
Breeding biology of the Cipo Cinclodes Cinclodes espinhacensis, a micro-endemic furnariid of the southeastern Brazilian mountains
Authors: Costa Lílian Mariana , de Freitas Guilherme Henrique Silva , da Silva Pedro Henrique Vieira Braga Pereira , Ribeiro Leonardo Cotta , de Vasconcelos Marcelo Ferreira , Rodrigues Marcos
Published: February 2020

The Cipo CinclodesCinclodes espinhacensisis a recently described furnariid endemic to thecampos rupestresof Serra do Cipó, southern Espinhaço Range, southeastern Brazil. It is an “Endangered” species and its natural history is poorly known. We studied the Cipo Cinclodes breeding biology at Serra do Breu, where we found six nests on rock outcrops in 2009 and 2012. At least one nest was reused in different years. Breeding season was from September (nest building) to January (dependent juveniles). Nests were shallow cups or beds placed in chambers at the end of earthen and/or rocky tunnels or crevices on rock outcrops. Clutch size was 2–3 eggs. It exhibited biparental care during all nest stages. We demonstrated that the nesting habits of Cipo Cinclodes agree with those reported for other species of the genus, although some details differ from what is known for the closely related species, the Long-tailed CinclodesCinclodes pabsti.
First nest description of the Azure-shouldered Tanager (Thraupis cyanoptera, Thraupidae)
Authors: Zima Paulo Victor Queijo , Perrella Daniel Fernandes , Francisco Mercival Roberto
Published: February 2020

The genus Thraupis represents the typical tanagers, and despite the commonness of some species their reproductive aspects are poorly documented. Here we provide the first description of nests and nestlings of the Azure-shouldered Tanager, Thraupis cyanoptera, and we provide additional information on eggs. We found three active nests at Carlos Botelho State Park, southeastern Brazil, in September and October 2014, and in November 2016. The nests were built within large tangles of bromeliads, 4.1–5.2 m above ground. They were shallow bottom-supported cups, composed mainly of elongated stripes of dry bromeliad leaves. Eggs were subeliptical, with white background color and small brown spots and blotches evenly distributed throughout the surface. Nestlings had pink skin and gray down, with ocher bill and white swollen flanges. Although more forest-dwelling than other congeners, the Azure-shouldered Tanager seems to tolerate some habitat disturbance, as nests were observed in clearings.
Waterbirds catch and release a poisonous fish at a mudflat in southeastern Australia
Authors: Sazima Ivan
Published: February 2020

Several waterbird species prey on fishes, and usually use only one sensory mode to detect this prey: herons hunt visually guided, whereas ibises mostly search tactilely guided. I report herein events in which a heron and an ibis caught and released a poisonous fish at a mudflat in southeastern Australia. A Great Egret (Ardea alba) that targeted small gerreid fishes caught and immediately released the very toxic pufferfish Tetractenos hamiltoni, with bill washing and discomfort movements afterwards. Two Australian White Ibises (Threskiornis molucca) that probed for bottom-dwelling fishes and crabs caught and handled these pufferfishes for about 60 s, before releasing them. Next, the birds dipped the bill in the water and resumed hunting. Pufferfishes are rarely preyed on by birds, but an Australian bird that feeds on this fish type is the Silver Gull (Chroicocephalus novaehollandiae), which eats the pufferfish Torquigener pleurogramma when it is nontoxic or less harmful.
Southeastern Brazilian tyrannulets as flower watchers
Authors: Willis Edwin O’Neill , Bencke Glayson Ariel
Published: February 2020

Several species of insect-eating birds occasionally visit flowering trees or shrubs to feed on arthropods at flowers instead of nectar or petals. In southeastern Brazil, the Planalto Tyrannulet Phyllomyias fasciatus (10.3 g) and the Gray-headed Tody-Flycatcher Todirostrum poliocephalum (7 g) often watch flowers to get insects and can visit flowering trees for hours or for several days. We describe the foraging behavior of these two tyrannulets at flowering trees and also report observations on several other species, mostly tyrant-flycatchers and tanagers. As an opportunistic foraging strategy, flower watching can be expected to be more common among small, canopy or edge birds that sally or hover-glean to catch small insects on or near foliage.
Nest and nestling description of Automolus rufipileatus from Brazil
Authors: Junqueira Tiago Guimarães , Lara Kelrene Moreira , Pinho João Batista , Aragona Mônica , Mathias Pablo Vinícius Clemente , Mendonça Claudio Veloso
Published: February 2020

We describe here the first documented nest and nestling of the Chestnut-crowned Foliage-gleaner (Automolus rufipileatus) in Brazil. They were recorded in the municipality of Vitória do Xingu, state of Pará, at Amazonian domains. As other members of the genus Automolus, the nest of A. rufipileatus was in a steep clay bank on the edge of a small stream, comprising an inclined entrance tunnel to access two distinct chambers. The nest can be classified as a cavity with inclined tunnel. When discovered, the nest housed a nestling in advanced stage of development; therefore, it was not possible to describe the eggs, incubation period and nestling’s initial development. We encourage additional studies on Chestnut-crowned Foliage-gleaner reproductive biology.
Hyacinth Macaw (Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus) nests in a mosaic of protected areas in Carajás and surrounding areas, state of Pará, Brazil
Authors: da Silva Grace Ferreira , Presti Flávia Torres , Rechetelo Juliana , Guedes Neiva Maria Robaldo , Wasko Adriane Pinto , Donatelli Reginaldo José
Published: February 2020

Natural history studies can provide information that can be used in species conservation and management. The present study provides information about the nests and nest sites of Hyacinth Macaws (Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus) in a mosaic of protected areas in Carajás and surrounding areas in the Amazon region of the state of Pará, Brazil. Data were collected during four expeditions conducted in 2007, 2008, 2013 and 2014. A total of 66 tree cavities were monitored, and 28 of these were used by Hyacinth Macaws. In addition, 38 breeding events were recorded (some nests were active in multiple seasons), and 17 eggs and 33 nestlings were observed. Environmental variables for the 24 cavities that were actively used by Hyacinth Macaws were evaluated. Most of the nest cavities were located in Sterculia sp. trees (86.6%) and in open areas (e.g., near pastures). Nesting tree and cavity measurements were variable, but the mean diameter at breast height of the trees containing Hyacinth Macaw nest cavities was larger than that reported from other regions, such as the Pantanal. The present study describes the unique ecology and life history of Hyacinth Macaws in Carajás, for which information is scarce. This information will facilitate the conservation and management of Hyacinth Macaws and can be used locally for environmental education.
Conformal invariance of the one-loop all-plus helicity scattering amplitudes
Authors: Henn Johannes , Power Bláithín , Zoia Simone
Published: February 2020

Abstract

The massless QCD Lagrangian is conformally invariant and, as a consequence, so are the tree-level scattering amplitudes. However, the implications of this powerful symmetry at loop level are only beginning to be explored systematically. Even for finite loop amplitudes, the way conformal symmetry manifests itself may be subtle, e.g. in the form of anomalous conformal Ward identities. As they are finite and rational, the one-loop all-plus and single-minus amplitudes are a natural first step towards understanding the conformal properties of Yang-Mills theory at loop level. Remarkably, we find that the one-loop all-plus amplitudes are conformally invariant, whereas the single-minus are not. Moreover, we present a formula for the one-loop all-plus amplitudes where the symmetry is manifest term by term. Surprisingly, each term transforms covariantly under directional dual conformal variations. We prove the formula directly using recursive techniques, and check that it has the correct physical factorisations.
Classical limit of large N gauge theories with conformal symmetry
Authors: Terashima Seiji
Published: February 2020

Abstract

In this paper we study classical limit of conformal field theories realized by largeNgauge theories using the generalized coherent states. For generic largeNgauge theories with conformal symmetry, we show that the classical limit of t hem is described by the classical Einstein gravity. This may be regarded as a kind of derivation of the AdS/CFT correspondence.
α′ corrections of Reissner-Nordström black holes
Authors: Cano Pablo A. , Chimento Samuele , Linares Román , Ortín Tomás , Ramírez Pedro F.
Published: February 2020

Abstract

We study the first-order in α′ corrections to non-extremal 4-dimensional dyonic Reissner-Nordström (RN) black holes with equal electric and magnetic charges in the context of Heterotic Superstring effective field theory (HST) compactified on a T6. The particular embedding of the dyonic RN black hole in HST considered here is not supersymmetric in the extremal limit. We show that, at first order in α′, consistency with the equations of motion of the HST demands additional scalar and vector fields become active, and we provide explicit expressions for all of them. We determine analytically the position of the event horizon of the black hole, as well as the corrections to the extremality bound, to the temperature and to the entropy, checking that they are related by the first law of black-hole thermodynamics, so that ∂S/∂M = 1/T. We discuss the implications of our results in the context of the Weak Gravity Conjecture, clarifying that entropy corrections for fixed mass and charge at extremality do not necessarily imply corrections to the extremal charge-to-mass ratio.
Radial interpolation of GPS and leveling data of ground deformation in a resurgent caldera: application to Campi Flegrei (Italy)
Authors: Bevilacqua Andrea , Neri Augusto , De Martino Prospero , Isaia Roberto , Novellino Alessandro , Tramparulo Francesco D’Assisi , Vitale Stefano
Published: February 2020

This study presents a new method, called the Radial Interpolation Method, to interpolate data characterized by an approximately radial pattern around a relatively constrained central zone, such as the ground deformation patterns shown in many active volcanic areas. The method enables the fast production of short-term deformation maps on the base of spatially sparse ground deformation measurements and can provide uncertainty quantification on the interpolated values, fundamental for hazard assessment purposes and deformation source reconstruction. The presented approach is not dependent on a priori assumptions about the geometry, location and physical properties of the source, except for the requirement of a locally radial pattern, i.e., allowing multiple centers of symmetry. We test the new method on a synthetic point source example, and then, we apply the method to selected time intervals of real geodetic data collected at the Campi Flegrei caldera during the last 39 years, including examples of leveling, Geodetic Precise Traversing measurements and Global Positioning System. The maps of horizontal displacement, calculated inland, show maximum values lying along a semicircular annular region with a radius of about 2–3 km in size. This semi-annular area is marked by mesoscale structures such as faults, sand dikes and fractures. The maps of vertical displacement describe a linear relation between the maximum vertical uplift measured and the volume variation. The multiplicative factor in the linear relation is about 0.3 × 106 m3/cm if we estimate the proportion of the ΔVthat is captured by the GPS network onland and we use this to estimate the full ΔV. In this case, the 95% confidence interval on K because of linear regression is ± 5%. Finally, we briefly discuss how the new method could be used for the production of short-term vent opening maps on the base of real-time geodetic measurements of the horizontal and vertical displacements.
Airway tapering: an objective image biomarker for bronchiectasis
Authors:   on behalf of the Normal Chest CT study group, Kuo Wieying , Perez-Rovira Adria , Tiddens Harm , de Bruijne Marleen
Published: February 2020

Purpose

To estimate airway tapering in control subjects and to assess the usability of tapering as a bronchiectasis biomarker in paediatric populations.

Methods

Airway tapering values were semi-automatically quantified in 156 children with control CTs collected in the Normal Chest CT Study Group. Airway tapering as a biomarker for bronchiectasis was assessed on spirometer-guided inspiratory CTs from 12 patients with bronchiectasis and 12 age- and sex-matched controls. Semi-automatic image analysis software was used to quantify intra-branch tapering (reduction in airway diameter along the branch), inter-branch tapering (reduction in airway diameter before and after bifurcation) and airway-artery ratios on chest CTs. Biomarkers were further stratified in small, medium and large airways based on three equal groups of the accompanying vessel size.

Results

Control subjects showed intra-branch tapering of 1% and inter-branch tapering of 24–39%. Subjects with bronchiectasis showed significantly reduced intra-branch of 0.8% and inter-branch tapering of 19–32% and increased airway–artery ratios compared with controls (p< 0.01). Tapering measurements were significantly different between diseased and controls across all airway sizes. Difference in airway–artery ratio was only significant in small airways.

Conclusion

Paediatric normal values for airway tapering were established in control subjects. Tapering showed to be a promising biomarker for bronchiectasis as subjects with bronchiectasis show significantly less airway tapering across all airway sizes compared with controls. Detecting less tapering in larger airways could potentially lead to earlier diagnosis of bronchiectasis. Additionally, compared with the conventional airway–artery ratio, this novel biomarker has the advantage that it does not require pairing with pulmonary arteries.

Key Points

•Tapering is a promising objective image biomarker for bronchiectasis that can be extracted semi-automatically and has good correlation with validated visual scoring methods.

•Less airway tapering was observed in patients with bronchiectasis and can be observed sensitively throughout the bronchial tree, even in the more central airways.

•Tapering values seemed to be less influenced by variety in scanning protocols and lung volume making it a more robust biomarker for bronchiectasis detection.
Erfahrungen von Aggression und Gewalt gegen Augenärztinnen und Augenärzte
Authors: Jacobsen Christina , Volkmann I. , Wedegärtner F. , Harris J. , Bertram B. , Gass P. , Bambas B. , Framme C.
Published: February 2020

Hintergrund

Die Medien berichten über die erhöhte Gewaltbereitschaft von Patienten sowie Angehörigen gegenüber medizinischem Personal. Bislang wurden wenige Untersuchungen zu diesem Thema durchgeführt, entsprechend schwach ist die Datenlage. Gerade Augenärzte haben an der Spaltlampe engen Kontakt zum Patienten und sind oft mit Patienten allein.

Methodik

Auf Grundlage der Aggressions-Wahrnehmungsskala (POPAS Fragebogen, Oud 2000) sowie der Umfrage zu Aggressionen und Gewalt unter Allgemeinmedizinern (Vorderwülbecke et al. 2015) wurde ein Fragebogen entwickelt. Im Herbst 2018 erhielten alle Mitglieder der Deutschen Ophthalmologischen Gesellschaft (DOG) und des Berufsverbandes der Augenärzte (BVA) per Mail eine Einladung, um den Fragebogen online auszufüllen.

Ergebnisse

Von 9411 angeschriebenen Augenärzten nahmen insgesamt 1508 (Alter: 49 ± 12 Jahre) an der Befragung teil (16 %). 806 (53,7 %) Befragte waren weiblich. 1139 (75,5 %) Teilnehmer arbeiteten in Praxen. Insgesamt 1264 (83,3 %) der Augenärzte hatten Aggressionen/Gewalt in ihrer Tätigkeit erfahren. 986 (65 %) Befragte hatten verbale Übergriffe ohne Drohung erlebt. Von bedrohlich körperlichen Gewalterfahrungen berichteten 363 (24,1 %) Ärzte. 30 (2 %) Teilnehmer erhielten aufgrund schwerer körperlicher Gewalt eine ärztliche Behandlung. Sexuelle Einschüchterung/Belästigung bejahten 322 (21,4 %) der Befragten, von diesen waren 243 (75,5 %) weiblich. 533 (47,9 %) Ärzte empfanden, dass aggressive/gewalttätige Verhaltensweisen in den letzten 5 Jahren zugenommen haben.

Schlussfolgerung

Die hohe Teilnehmeranzahl weist auf die hohe Relevanz des Themas hin. Die Umfrage hat erstaunliche Ergebnisse geliefert, die weitere Diskussionen und Handlungen zur Folge haben sollten, um die Sicherheit der Mitarbeiter zu verbessern.
Bilaterale Irisimplantatexplantation bei Pigmentdispersionssyndrom (PDS) und Hornhautdekompensation nach kosmetischer Irisimplantation (BrightOcular)
Authors: Varna-Tigka Kleopatra , Löffler Franziska , Kohnen Thomas
Published: February 2020

Wir berichten über eine 27-jährige Patientin mit Pigmentdispersionssyndrom und Hornhautdekompensation in beiden Augen nach Implantation eines Irisimplantates (BrightOcular, Anaheim, CA, USA) zur Änderung der Augenfarbe. Drei Jahre nach Implantation der künstlichen Iris an einer Augenklinik in Indien erfolgte die konsekutive Entfernung der Implantate bei erhöhtem Risiko der Entwicklung eines Pigmentdispersionsglaukoms und Gefahr der Hornhautdekompensation. Postoperativ zeigten sich traumatische, mittelweite und irreguläre Pupillen.
Psychological distress and nutritional status in head and neck cancer patients: a pilot study
Authors: Gosak Maja , Gradišar Kaja , Rotovnik Kozjek Nada , Strojan Primož
Published: February 2020

Purpose

To determine whether the psychological state of patients with head and neck cancer (HCN) is associated with their nutritional status.

Methods

In 40 patients with locally advanced HNC treated with definitive or adjuvant (chemo)radiotherapy, psychological and nutritional status were assessed before treatment, at its completion and 3 months’ post-therapy. Psychosocial distress was measured using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale questionnaire (HADS-A, HADS-D), whereas the nutritional status was evaluated using standard methods (Nutritional Risk Screening Tool 2002, anthropometric data, dynamometry and laboratory tests) and with a bioelectrical impedance analysis parameter phase angle (PA).

Results

Before treatment, more patients were screened positive for anxiety than at treatment completion (p = 0.037) or 3 months’ post-therapy (p = 0.083). Depression prevalence was non-significantly higher at the end and after therapy. Compared to the baseline, more cachectic patients and a reduction of PA values were found at successive assessments. Anxiety was more often recorded among malnourished/cachectic patients (assessment 1, p = 0.017; assessment 2, p = 0.020) who were also found more frequently depressed (assessment 2, p = 0.045; assessment 3, p = 0.023). Significantly higher PA values were measured in patients without distress determined at 3 months’ post-therapy by the HADS-A (p = 0.027).

Conclusion

The association between the psychological and nutritional status found in this pilot study and the options for intervention warrants further clarification in a larger prospective trial.
A macroscopic gradient-enhanced damage model for deformation behavior of concrete under cyclic loadings
Authors: Monnamitheen Abdul Gafoor Ajmal Hasan , Dinkler Dieter
Published: February 2020

Concrete materials show a very complex macroscopic deformation behavior under tension and compression, accompanied by crack opening and crack closing phenomena under cyclic loading. The continuum damage mechanics offers a promising framework for the description of the damage deformation behavior. This paper proposes a continuum damage model, which is formulated based on energy equivalence using a unified equivalent strain. The evolution of isotropic damage is governed by two independent history variables to describe the crack opening and closing behavior, i.e., unilateral behavior, of concrete. The evolution of damage and inelastic strains are described by a single damage function and a modified failure surface, respectively. Moreover, the implicit gradient method is applied to the equivalent strains to achieve proper localization of deformation. The stiffness recovery and crack opening/closing mechanisms are simulated considering the thermodynamically consistent framework. Validation of numerical results with experimental data and the previous models demonstrates the efficiency of the model to simulate concrete behavior under monotonic and cyclic/reverse loadings.
Sex difference in the incidence of microvascular complications in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Singh Sunny S. , Roeters-van Lennep Jeanine E. , Lemmers Roosmarijn F. H. , van Herpt Thijs T. W. , Lieverse Aloysius G. , Sijbrands Eric J. G. , van Hoek Mandy
Published: February 2020

Aims

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a major cause of death and disability due to its long-term macro- and microvascular diseases. Although women with type 2 diabetes have more macrovascular diseases, it is unclear whether there are sex differences in the occurrence of microvascular disease. The aim of our study was to investigate sex differences in the incidence of microvascular complications in type 2 diabetes.

Methods

Analyses were performed in the DiaGene study, a prospective cohort study for complications of type 2 diabetes, collected in the city of Eindhoven, the Netherlands (n = 1886, mean follow-up time = 6.93 years). Cox proportional hazard models adjusted for risk factors for complications (age, smoking, hypertension, dyslipidemia, HbA1c and duration of type 2 diabetes) were used to analyze the incidence of microvascular complications in men and women.

Results

The incidence of microalbuminuria was significantly higher in men (HR microalbuminuria 1.64 [CI 1.21–2.24],p = 0.002). Additionally, men are more likely to develop two or three microvascular complications compared to women (OR 2.42 [CI 1.69–3.45],p < 0.001).

Conclusions

This study shows that men with type 2 diabetes are more likely to develop microvascular complications, especially microalbuminuria. Furthermore, men seem to have a higher chance of developing multiple microvascular complications. Our results highlight that men and women may not benefit to a similar extent from current treatment approaches to prevent diabetes-related microvascular diseases.
Climate change in the Eastern Amazon: crop-pollinator and occurrence-restricted bees are potentially more affected
Authors: Giannini Tereza Cristina , Costa Wilian França , Borges Rafael Cabral , Miranda Leonardo , da Costa Claudia Priscila Wanzeler , Saraiva Antonio Mauro , Imperatriz Fonseca Vera Lucia
Published: February 2020

There is pressing need to anticipate the impacts of climate change on species and their functional contributions to ecosystem processes. Our objective is to evaluate the potential bee response to climate change considering (1) response traits—body size, nest site, and sociality; (2) contributions to ecosystem services (effect trait)—crop pollination; and (3) bees’ size of current occurrence area. We analyzed 216 species occurring at the Carajás National Forest (Eastern Amazon, Pará, Brazil), using two different algorithms and geographically explicit data. We modeled the current occurrence area of bees and projected their range shift under future climate change scenarios through species distribution modeling. We then tested the relationship of potential loss of occurrence area with bee traits and current occurrence area. Our projections show that 95% of bee species will face a decline in their total occurrence area, and only 15 to 4% will find climatically suitable habitats in Carajás. The results indicate an overall reduction in suitable areas for all traits analyzed. Bees presenting medium and restricted geographic distributions, as well as vital crop pollinators, will experience significantly higher losses in occurrence area. The potentially remaining species will be the wide-range habitat generalists, and the decline in crop-pollinator species will probably pose negative impact on pollination service. The north of Pará presented the greatest future climatic suitability and can be considered for conservation purposes. These findings emphasize the detrimental effects on biodiversity and agricultural production by climate change and provide data to support conservation planning.
Sexual Chemosignals: Evidence that Men Process Olfactory Signals of Women’s Sexual Arousal
Authors: Wisman Arnaud , Shrira Ilan
Published: February 2020

Research suggests that humans can communicate emotional states (e.g., fear, sadness) via chemosignals. However, thus far little is known about whether sexual arousal can also be conveyed through chemosignals and how these signals might influence the receiver. In three experiments, and a subsequent mini meta-analysis, support was found for the hypothesis that men can process the scent of sexually aroused women and that exposure to these sexual chemosignals affect the subsequent perceptions and sexual motivation of men. Specifically, Experiment 1 revealed that men evaluate the axillary sweat of sexually aroused women as more attractive, compared to the scent of the same women when not sexually aroused. In addition, Experiment 2 showed that exposure to sexual chemosignals increased the men’s sexual arousal. Experiment 3 found support for the thesis that exposure to sexual chemosignals would increase sexual motivation. As predicted, men devoted greater attention to and showed greater interest in mating with women who displayed sexual cues (e.g., scantily dressed, in seductive poses). By contrast, exposure to the sexual chemosignals did not alter males’ attention and mating interest toward women who displayed no sexual cues. It is discussed how sexual chemosignals may function as an additional channel in the communication of sexual interest and how contextual factors can influence the dynamics of human sexual communication.
The Role of Academic Achievement in the Relationship between School Ethos and Adolescent Distress and Aggression: A Study of Ninth Grade Students in the Segregated School Landscape of Stockholm
Authors: Granvik Saminathen Maria , Plenty Stephanie , Modin Bitte
Published: February 2020

Equitable access to high-quality schools is important for student achievement. However, the increasing attention placed on adolescent mental health promotion suggests that school contextual factors and school achievement may also play an important role for students’ psychological well-being. This study examined the relationships between school ethos, academic achievement, psychological distress and aggressive behaviour among Swedish students, further considering the role of school sociodemographic composition. Analyses were based on two separate data collections in Stockholm, one among teachers (n = 2089) and the other among students aged 15–16 (n = 9776; 49.7% girls). Using multilevel structural equation modelling, the relations between teachers’ reports of school ethos and students’ reports of achievement, psychological distress and aggressive behaviour were tested. Analyses showed a positive relationship between a school’s ethos and average academic achievement. At the school level, higher academic achievement was in turn associated with less psychological distress among students, providing an indirect pathway between school ethos and psychological distress. At the individual level, students with higher academic achievement reported less psychological distress and aggressive behaviour. These findings indicate that schools’ value-based policies and practices can play a role for students’ academic performance, and through this, for their psychological well-being.
Physicians’ acceptance of pharmacists’ interventions in daily hospital practice
Authors: Zaal Rianne J. , den Haak Edwin W. , Andrinopoulou Elrozy R. , van Gelder Teun , Vulto Arnold G. , van den Bemt Patricia M. L. A.
Published: February 2020

Background The physicians’ acceptance rate of pharmacists’ interventions to improve pharmacotherapy can vary depending on the setting. The acceptance rate of interventions proposed by pharmacists located in the hospital pharmacy over the telephone and factors associated with acceptance are largely unknown. Objective To determine the physicians’ acceptance rate of pharmacists’ interventions proposed over the telephone in daily hospital practice and to identify factors associated with acceptance. Setting A retrospective case–control study was performed concerning adult patients admitted to a university hospital in the Netherlands. Method Pharmacists’ interventions, based on alerts for drug–drug interactions and drug dosing in patients with renal impairment, recorded between January 2012 and June 2013 that were communicated over the telephone were included. Factors associated with physicians’ acceptance were identified with the use of a mixed-effects logistic model. Main outcome measure The primary outcome was the proportion of accepted interventions. Results A total of 841 interventions were included. Physicians accepted 599 interventions, resulting in an acceptance rate of 71.2%. The mixed-effects logistic model showed that acceptance was significantly associated with the number of prescribed drugs (16 to ≤ 20 drugs ORadj 1.88; 95% CI 1.05–3.35, > 20 drugs ORadj 2.90; 95% CI 1.41–5.96, compared to ≤ 10 drugs) and the severity of the drug-related problem (problem without potential harm ORadj 6.36; 95% CI 1.89–21.38; problem with potential harm OR 6.78; 95% CI 2.09–21.99, compared to clinically irrelevant problems), and inversely associated with continuation of pre-admission treatment (ORadj 0.55; 95% CI 0.35–0.87). Conclusion Over the study period, the majority of pharmacists’ interventions proposed over the telephone were accepted by physicians. The probability for acceptance increased for patients with an increasing number of medication orders, for clinically relevant problems and for problems related to treatment initiated during admission.
Prevalence and risk factors of drug-related problems identified in pharmacy-based medication reviews
Authors: Sell Raphael , Schaefer Marion
Published: February 2020

Background Medication safety is a major health concern, especially for older patients, in whom drug-related problems occur frequently as a consequence of polypharmacy and frailty, increasing the risk of adverse drug events. Objective To investigate the prevalence and types of drug-related problems in community pharmacies and to identify associated risk factors in order to adjust the focus of care. Setting 300 German community pharmacies in Saxony-Anhalt (Germany). Method In April 2015, community pharmacists conducted brown bag medication reviews for primary care patients, in which they identified and solved drug-related problems with patients or their physicians. Data from these reviews were analyzed, including frequency and nature of problems and their respective resolutions. Potentially inappropriate medications according to the PRISCUS list were identified by post hoc analysis. Risk factors for drug-related problems were determined using bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis. Main outcome measure Prevalence and risk factors of drug-related problems. Results 1090 medication reviews were conducted. On average, patients were 72.0 ± 9.1 years old and had 10.6 ± 3.7 medications, 62.0% (n = 676) presented a medication plan. Knowledge gaps about medications were detected in almost a third of patients (n = 345). Drug-related problems were identified in 84.2% (n = 918) of patients (in 3836 medications). Frequent problems concerned drug–drug-interactions (53.7%, n = 585) as well as drug use and adherence (46.7%, n = 509). Most problems (72.2%, n = 2769) were resolved between pharmacist and patient. Knowledge gaps and the number of drugs were independently associated with a higher risk of drug-related problems. For older patients, potentially inappropriate medications were a risk factor in bivariate, but not in multivariate analysis. Conclusion Pharmacists identified and resolved considerable rates of drug-related problems, suggesting that they are capable and well-positioned to conduct medication reviews. Knowledge gaps, the number of drugs, patient age and, in older patients, potentially inappropriate medications may indicate an increased risk for drug-related problems.
Aurora in the Polar Cap: A Review
Authors: Hosokawa Keisuke , Kullen Anita , Milan Steve , Reidy Jade , Zou Ying , Frey Harald U. , Maggiolo Romain , Fear Robert
Published: February 2020

This paper reviews our current understanding of auroral features that appear poleward of the main auroral oval within the polar cap, especially those that are known as Sun-aligned arcs, transpolar arcs, or theta auroras. They tend to appear predominantly during periods of quiet geomagnetic activity or northwards directed interplanetary magnetic field (IMF). We also introduce polar rain aurora which has been considered as a phenomenon on open field lines. We describe the morphology of such auroras, their development and dynamics in response to solar wind-magnetosphere coupling processes, and the models that have been developed to explain them.
Incomplete-data Fisher scoring method with steplength adjustment
Authors: Takai Keiji
Published: February 2020

An incomplete-data Fisher scoring method is proposed for parameter estimation in models where data are missing and in latent-variable models that can be formulated as a missing data problem. The convergence properties of the proposed method and an accelerated variant of this method are provided. The main features of this method are its ability to accelerate the rate of convergence by adjusting the steplength, to provide a second derivative of the observed-data log-likelihood function using only the functions used in the proposed method, and the ability to avoid having to explicitly solve the first derivative of the object function. Four examples are presented to demonstrate how the proposed method converges compared with the EM algorithm and its variants. The computing time is also compared.