bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Half-hypermultiplets and incomplete/complete resolutions in F-theory
Authors: Kan Naoto , Mizoguchi Shun’ya , Tani Taro
Published: August 2020

Abstract

We consider resolutions of codimension-two enhanced singularities from SO(12) to E7 and from E7 to E8 in six-dimensional F-theory, where a half-hypermultiplet arises for generic complex structures achieving them. The exceptional fibers at the enhanced point exhibit different structures depending on how the colliding 7-brane approaches the stack of gauge 7-branes, as previously observed by Morrison and Taylor in the case of the enhancement from SU(6) to E6. When the colliding brane approaches them as O(s), where s is the coordinate of the base space along the gauge 7-branes, the resolution process ends up with fewer exceptional fibers than naively expected from the Kodaira classification, with a non-Dynkin intersection matrix including half-integral intersection numbers. We confirm that the exceptional fibers at the enhanced point form extremal rays of the cone of the positive weights of the relevant pseudo-real representation, explaining why a half-hypermultiplet arises there. By altering the ordering of the singularities blown up in the process, we obtain, for both SO(12) → E7 and E7 → E8, the intersection diagram on every other row of the corresponding box graphs. We present detailed derivations of the intersection diagrams of the exceptional fibers at the singularity enhanced points by examining how an exceptional curve is lifted up on the chart arising due to the subsequent blowing-up process. When the colliding brane approaches the stack of branes as O(s2), we obtain additional conifold singularity at the enhanced point, which completes the full Dynkin diagram of the enhanced group as was found previously.
An approximation of solutions to heat equations defined by generalized measure theoretic Laplacians
Authors: Ehnes Tim , Hambly Ben
Published: August 2020

We consider the heat equation defined by a generalized measure theoretic Laplacian on [0, 1]. This equation describes heat diffusion in a bar such that the mass distribution of the bar is given by a non-atomic Borel probabiliy measure $$\mu $$
μ
, where we do not assume the existence of a strictly positive mass density. We show that weak measure convergence implies convergence of the corresponding generalized Laplacians in the strong resolvent sense. We prove that strong semigroup convergence with respect to the uniform norm follows, which implies uniform convergence of solutions to the corresponding heat equations. This provides, for example, an interpretation for the mathematical model of heat diffusion on a bar with gaps in that the solution to the corresponding heat equation behaves approximately like the heat flow on a bar with sufficiently small mass on these gaps.
Cardiac serum marker alterations after intraoperative radiotherapy with low-energy x-rays in early breast cancer as an indicator of possible cardiac toxicity
Authors: Stefanovic Stefan , Berlit Sebastian , Sperk Elena , Wenz Frederik , Weiß Christel , Trinkmann Frederik , Sütterlin Marc , Tuschy Benjamin
Published: August 2020

Purpose

To assess acute cardiac toxicity caused by intraoperative radiotherapy (IORT) with low-energy x‑rays for early breast cancer.

Methods

We prospectively analyzed pre- and postoperative troponin I and NT-proBNP in 94 women who underwent breast-conserving surgery between 2013 and 2017 at the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics of the University Medical Center Mannheim, Germany. Thirty-nine women received IORT using low-energy x‑rays during breast-conserving surgery while 55 patients without IORT formed the control group. Demographic and surgical parameters as well as cardiac markers were evaluated.

Results

There were no significant differences concerning age and side of breast cancer between the groups. Furthermore, no significant difference between the troponin I assays of the IORT and control groups could be found (preoperatively: 0.017 ± 0.006 ng/ml vs. 0.018 ± 0.008 ng/ml; p = 0.5105; postoperatively: 0.019 ± 0.012 ng/ml vs. 0.018 ± 0.010 ng/ml; p = 0.6225). N‑terminal fragment of B‑type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) was significantly higher in the control group 24 h after surgery (preoperatively: 158.154 ± 169.427 pg/ml vs. 162.109 ± 147.343 pg/ml; p = 0.56; postoperatively: 168.846 ± 160.227 pg/ml vs. 232.527 ± 188.957 pg/ml; p = 0.0279).

Conclusion

Troponin I levels as a marker of acute cardiac toxicity did not show any significant differences in patients who received IORT during breast-conserving surgery compared to those who did not.
Gesundheitsberichterstattung im Rahmen von Public Health Surveillance: Das Beispiel Diabetes
Authors: Reitzle Lukas , Paprott Rebecca , Färber Francesca , Heidemann Christin , Schmidt Christian , Thamm Roma , Scheidt-Nave Christa , Ziese Thomas
Published: August 2020

Eine Kernaufgabe von Public Health ist die kontinuierliche Erfassung und Analyse von gesundheitsbezogenen Daten zu relevanten Krankheiten (Surveillance). Sie dient der zeitnahen Umsetzung von Maßnahmen zum Schutz der Gesundheit in der Bevölkerung. Dafür müssen relevante Informationen zur richtigen Zeit und in geeigneter Weise für die entscheidenden Zielgruppen bereitgestellt werden (Dissemination).

Eine Disseminationsstrategie unterstützt die effektive Ergebniskommunikation und berücksichtigt 3 Kernfragen: (1) „Was sind die relevanten Inhalte der Surveillance?“, (2) „Wer benötigt welche Informationen?“ und (3) „Wie werden die Ergebnisse den Zielgruppen bereitgestellt?“ Die Digitalisierung eröffnet hierbei neue Möglichkeiten für die Gestaltung der Formate.

Seit 2015 wird am Robert Koch-Institut die Diabetes-Surveillance aufgebaut. In einem strukturierten Konsensprozess wurden 4 gesundheitspolitisch relevante Handlungsfelder mit 40 Kennzahlen (Indikatoren) definiert. Anschließend wurden gemeinsam mit dem wissenschaftlichen Projektbeirat unter Berücksichtigung neuer Möglichkeiten durch die Digitalisierung erste Publikationsformate erarbeitet. Neben Artikeln in Fachzeitschriften stellen der Bericht „Diabetes in Deutschland“ und eine Webseite mit interaktiver Visualisierung der Ergebnisse die wichtigsten Formate der ersten Projektphase dar. Begleitend werden Twitter und Youtube für die Erhöhung der Reichweite genutzt.

In der nächsten Projektphase steht neben der Weiterentwicklung des Indikatorensets der Ausbau der Dissemination hin zu einer nutzer- und handlungsorientierten Berichterstattung im Mittelpunkt. In engem Austausch mit dem wissenschaftlichen Beirat sollen Anforderungen der Zielgruppen erfasst und in der Entwicklung weiterer Formate berücksichtigt werden.
Morphological parameters of middle cerebral arteries associated with aneurysm formation
Authors: Zhang Wei , Wang Juan , Li Ting , Mei Mingjin
Published: August 2020

Purpose

The objective of this work was to investigate the correlation between morphological parameters of the MCA and the formation of aneurysms.

Methods

MCA aneurysms were diagnosed in 122 cases using CT angiography (including 30 cases of M1 proximal aneurysms, 70 cases of M1 bifurcation aneurysms, and 22 cases of distal aneurysms). Images from these cases were retrospectively compared with images from 50 healthy controls. Morphological parameters including the angle of the MCA with the ICA (α) and the ACA (β) were evaluated in the three aneurysm groups and the control group; parent-daughter angles (γ1,γ2), bifurcation angles (γ3), bifurcation diameters, angle ratios, and branch diameter ratios were also compared between the bifurcation aneurysm group and the control group. The blood vessel parameters between the aneurysm groups and controls were analyzed statistically.

Results

There was no statistically significant difference inαbetween the three groups of aneurysms and the control group (P= 0.381). In comparingβbetween the three groups of aneurysms and the control group, statistically significant differences were only observed between the MCA distal aneurysm group and the control group (P= 0.010). Compared with the control group, MCA bifurcation aneurysms were associated with largerγ3and smallerγ1andγ2(P< 0.001). This resulted in significantly larger angle ratios in the MCA bifurcation aneurysm group (P< 0.001). For the diameter measurements, the bifurcation diameter of the MCA bifurcation aneurysms was significantly smaller (P= 0.001).

Conclusion

The formation of MCA aneurysms is related to morphological parameters.
Metagenomic Studies in Inflammatory Skin Diseases
Authors: Godlewska Urszula , Brzoza Piotr , Kwiecień Kamila , Kwitniewski Mateusz , Cichy Joanna
Published: August 2020

Next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies together with an improved access to compute performance led to a cost-effective genome sequencing over the past several years. This allowed researchers to fully unleash the potential of genomic and metagenomic analyses to better elucidate two-way interactions between host cells and microbiome, both in steady-state and in pathological conditions. Experimental research involving metagenomics shows that skin resident microbes can influence the cutaneous pathophysiology. Here, we review metagenome approaches to study microbiota at this barrier site. We also describe the consequences of changes in the skin microbiota burden and composition, mostly revealed by these technologies, in the development of common inflammatory skin diseases.
Calcified brain metastases may be more frequent than normally considered
Authors: Rebella Giacomo , Romano Nicola , Silvestri Giulia , Ravetti Jean Louis , Gaggero Gabriele , Belgioia Liliana , Lupidi Francesco , Signori Alessio , Roccatagliata Luca , Saitta Laura , Castellan Lucio
Published: August 2020

Objectives

To verify the incidence of calcified brain metastases (CBM), illustrating the different presentation patterns and histology of primary tumor.

Methods

A series of 1002 consecutive brain computed tomography (CT) scans of patients with known primary tumors was retrospectively assessed. CBM were defined by the presence of calcification within intra-axial-enhancing lesions; identification of CBM was based on visual examination and ROI analysis (> 85 Hounsfield units). Also, calcifications in the primary tumor of all patients with brain metastases were evaluated. In CBM patients, we investigated the type of calcifications (punctate, nodular, cluster, ring, coarse), the histology of primary tumor, and if a previous RT was performed.

Results

Among 190 (18.9%) patients with brain metastatic disease, 34 presented with CBM (17.9%). Sixteen patients were previously treated with RT, while 18 presented calcifications ab initio (9.5% of all brain metastases). The majority of patients with CBM had a primitive lung adenocarcinoma (56%), followed by breast ductal invasive carcinoma (20%) and small cell lung carcinoma (11.8%). CBM were single in 44.1% of patients and multiple in 55.9%. With regard to the type of calcifications, the majority of CBM were punctate, without specific correlations between calcification type and histology of primary tumor. No patients with ab initio CBM had calcifications in primary tumor.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our data show that CBM are more common than usually thought, showing an incidence of 9.5% ab initio in patients with brain metastases. This study underlines that neuroradiologists should not overlook intraparenchymal brain calcifications, especially in oncologic patients.

Key Points

• Among the differential diagnosis of brain intraparenchymal calcifications, metastases are considered uncommon and found predominantly in patients treated with radiotherapy (RT).

• Our data show that CBM are more common than usually thought, showing an incidence of 9.5% ab initio in patients with brain metastases.

• A proportion of intraparenchymal brain calcifications, especially in oncologic patients, might represent evolving lesions and neuroradiologists should not overlook them to avoid a delay in diagnosis and treatment.
The comprehensive complication index (CCI): proposal of a new reporting standard for complications in major urological surgery
Authors: Kowalewski K. F. , Müller D. , Mühlbauer J. , Hendrie J. D. , Worst T. S. , Wessels F. , Walach M. T. , von Hardenberg J. , Nuhn P. , Honeck P. , Michel M. S. , Kriegmair M. C.
Published: August 2020

Purpose

The comprehensive complication index (CCI) is a new tool for reporting the cumulative burden of postoperative complications on a continuous scale. This study validates the CCI for urological surgery and its benefits over the Clavien-Dindo-Classification (Clavien).

Material and methods

Data from a prospectively maintained data base of all consecutive patients at a university care-center was analyzed. Complications after radical cystectomy (RC), radical prostatectomy (RP), and partial nephrectomy (PN) were classified using the CCI and Clavien system. Differences in complications between the CCI and the Clavien were assessed and correlation analyses performed. Sample size calculations for hypothetical clinical trials were compared between CCI and Clavien to evaluate whether the CCI would reduce the number of required patients in a clinical trial.

Results

682 patients (172 RC, 297 RP, 213 PN) were analyzed. Overall, 9.4–46.6% of patients had > 1 complication cumulatively assessed with the CCI resulting in an upgrading in the Clavien classification for 2.4–32.4% of patients. Therefore, scores between the systems differed for RC: CCI (mean ± standard deviation) 26.3 ± 20.8 vs. Clavien 20.4 ± 16.7, p < 0.001; PN: CCI 8.4 ± 14.7 vs. Clavien 7.0 ± 11.8, p < 0.001 and RP: CCI 5.8 ± 11.7 vs. Clavien 5.3 ± 10.6, p = 0.102. The CCI was more accurate in predicting LOS after RC than Clavien (p < 0.001). Sample size calculations based in the CCI (for future hypothetical trials) resulted in a reduction of required patients for all procedures (− 25% RC, − 74% PN, − 80% RP).

Conclusion

The CCI is more accurate to assess surgical complications and reduces required sample sizes that will facilitate the conduction of clinical trials.
Patient expectations are better for immunotherapy than traditional chemotherapy for cancer
Authors: Ihrig Andreas , Richter Jenniffer , Grüllich Carsten , Apostolidis Leonidas , Horak Peter , Villalobos Matthias , Grapp Miriam , Friederich Hans-Christoph , Maatouk Imad
Published: August 2020

Purpose

The main aim of the study was to explore the expectations and knowledge of advanced-stage cancer patients about immunotherapy.

Methods

This mixed methods study included 53 cancer patients on immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), 55 cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy (CT), and 53 non-cancer patients. Participants’ expectations about ICIs and CT were compared. Additional qualitative data were derived from semi-structured interviews.

Results

Among patients who did not receive ICIs, 63 (58%) had never heard of ICIs and 94 (87%) had large gaps in their knowledge of ICIs. Among ICI patients, 33 (62%) simply described ICIs without errors. ICI perception was positive, regardless of whether respondents received or had heard of ICIs, which became particularly evident when compared to CT. ICIs were rated as more promising, and all adverse effects were expected to be significantly lower than those of CT. Knowledge about ICIs was also limited in the interviewed ICI patients. Some patients reported adverse effects of ICIs that were mostly mild and well-tolerated or easily treated.

Conclusions

The lack of understanding of ICIs should be improved by activities to increase the knowledge of ICI patients and the general population. In contrast to CT, ICIs invoked fewer negative associations with efficacy and toxicity. Therefore, attention should be paid to risk awareness when educating patients. (Clinical trial registration number: DRKS00011868)

Trial Registration: German clinical trials register,www.germanctr.de, number DRKS00011868.
On Structural Parameterizations of the Bounded-Degree Vertex Deletion Problem
Authors: Ganian Robert , Klute Fabian , Ordyniak Sebastian
Published: August 2020

We study the parameterized complexity of the Bounded-Degree Vertex Deletion problem (BDD), where the aim is to find a maximum induced subgraph whose maximum degree is below a given degree bound. Our focus lies on parameters that measure the structural properties of the input instance. We first show that the problem is W[1]-hard parameterized by a wide range of fairly restrictive structural parameters such as the feedback vertex set number, pathwidth, treedepth, and even the size of a minimum vertex deletion set into graphs of pathwidth and treedepth at most three. We thereby resolve an open question stated in Betzler, Bredereck, Niedermeier and Uhlmann (2012) concerning the complexity of BDD parameterized by the feedback vertex set number. On the positive side, we obtain fixed-parameter algorithms for the problem with respect to the decompositional parameter treecut width and a novel problem-specific parameter called the core fracture number.
Soft clustering by convex electoral model
Authors: Nesterov Yurii
Published: August 2020

In this paper, we suggest a new technique for soft clustering of multidimensional data. It is based on a new convex voting model, where each voter chooses a party with certain probability depending on the divergence between his/her preferences and the position of the party. The parties can react on the results of polls by changing their positions. We prove that under some natural assumptions this system has a unique fixed point, providing a unique solution for soft clustering. The solution of our model can be found either by imitation of the sequential elections, or by direct minimization of a convex potential function. In both cases, the methods converge linearly to the solution. We provide our methods with worst-case complexity bounds. To the best of our knowledge, these are the first polynomial-time complexity results in this field.
Extension of Castigliano’s method for isotropic beams
Authors: Schoeftner Juergen
Published: August 2020

In the present contribution Castigliano’s theorem is extended to find more accurate results for the deflection curves of beam-type structures. The notion extension in the context of the second Castigliano’s theorem means that all stress components are included for the computation of the complementary strain energy, and not only the dominant axial stress and the shear stress. The derivation shows that the partial derivative of the complementary strain energy with respect to a scalar dummy parameter is equal to the displacement field multiplied by the normalized traction vector caused by the dummy load distribution. Knowing the Airy stress function of an isotropic beam as a function of the bending moment, the normal force, the shear force and the axial and vertical load distributions, higher-order formulae for the deflection curves and the cross section rotation are obtained. The analytical results for statically determinate and indeterminate beams for various load cases are validated by analytical and finite element results. Furthermore, the results of the extended Castigliano theory (ECT) are compared to Bernoulli–Euler and Timoshenko results, which are special cases of ECT, if only the energies caused by the bending moment and the shear force are considered. It is shown that lower-order terms for the vertical deflection exist that yield more accurate results than the Timoshenko theory. Additionally, it is shown that a distributed load is responsible for shrinking or elongation in the axial direction.
A principle of virtual power-based beam model reveals discontinuities in elastic support as potential sources of stress peaks in tramway rails
Authors: Kuttke Patricia , Hellmich Christian , Scheiner Stefan
Published: August 2020

This paper addresses the question to which extent the stiffness of an elastic foundation in general, and of a discontinuity occurring in the foundation in particular, affects the stresses to which a beam resting on such a foundation is exposed to. This is particularly relevant for tramway rails, where foundation discontinuities may be generated in the course of maintenance works. In the presented work, the underlying mathematical framework was derived based on the principle of virtual power, using a suitable virtual velocity field and a foundation-related traction force vector as input quantities. The resulting mathematical expressions for the virtual powers performed by the internal and external forces were approximated based on Finite Element discretizations, and eventually solved correspondingly, in the format of sequential Finite Element analyses. Numerical studies, performed on a tramway rail-shaped beam, have confirmed that foundation discontinuities indeed induce substantial increases in the stress tensor components, when moving from regions of a high-stiffness foundation to regions of a low-stiffness foundation; as it may occur if specific sections of the tramway network get renewed.
Non-interferometric phase retrieval for collinear phase-modulated holographic data storage
Authors: Hao Jianying , Ren Yuhong , Zhang Yuanying , Wang Kun , Li Hui , Tan Xiaodi , Lin Xiao
Published: August 2020

Because of its simple optical system setup and robust noise tolerance, non-interferometric phase retrieval is an important technique for phase-modulated holographic data storage. Usually, the iterative algorithm of non-interferometry needs hundreds of iteration numbers to retrieve phase accurately, the data transfer rate decreases severely. Strong constraints such as adding embedded data into the phase data page can reduce the iteration numbers, but this method decreases the code rate severely. In this paper, we proposed the advanced non-interferometric phase retrieval method based on the collinear system. By encoding the reference beam of the collinear optical holographic storage system with embedded data, the storage space of the signal beam data page is completely released and the encoding rate is doubled. The embedded data can provide more modulation index including phase and amplitude to shorten iterations, so the data transfer rate is also increased. In the simulation, we recorded a four-level phase pattern and retrieved the phase correctly.
Does Touching Real Objects Affect Learning?
Authors: Novak Magdalena , Schwan Stephan
Published: August 2020

Based on theories of multimedia learning, the present study investigated whether the haptic sense serves as an additional channel to enhance the learning experience and learning outcomes. We therefore set up an experimental exhibition with two showrooms. In the first showroom, the sensory access of the participants to the exhibition objects was systematically varied in a 2 × 2 design with the between-subjects factors vision and haptics. While one group of participants could touch and see the objects, others could either only see or only touch them. The fourth group of participants found a showroom without objects. To address the auditory access, all participants were provided with information about each object via an audio guide. In the second showroom, further information was presented using posters. This showroom was the same for every participant. We aimed to investigate whether the haptic experience in the first showroom served as a motivator to engage further with the topic. The participants filled out questionnaires before visiting the first showroom, after visiting the first showroom, and after visiting the second showroom. To investigate the differences between the experimental groups on different outcomes, a memory test, a knowledge test, and various motivational-affective scales were used. The long-term effects of the information presentation were measured after 3 weeks. We found an advantage for recalling the objects and a heightened negative affect due to the haptic experience. Implications and further directions for this research will be discussed.
Patients with adrenal insufficiency have cardiovascular features associated with hypovolemia
Authors: Esposito Daniela , Bobbio Emanuele , Di Fraia Rosa , Mone Pasquale , Accardo Giacomo , De Bellis Annamaria , Iorio Sergio , Esposito Katherine , Marfella Raffaele , Johannsson Gudmundur , Ragnarsson Oskar , Pasquali Daniela
Published: August 2020

Context

Patients with adrenal insufficiency (AI) have excess mortality and morbidity, mainly due to cardiovascular (CV) diseases. The mechanisms for this is unclear.

Objective

To assess CV structure and function in AI patients on conventional replacement therapy and after switching to once-daily, modified-release hydrocortisone (OD-HC) in comparison with healthy matched controls.

Methods

This was a retrospective analysis of 17 adult AI patients (11 with primary AI, 6 with secondary AI) on stable replacement with cortisone acetate [median (minimum, maximum) 33.5 (12.5–50) mg] and, if needed, fludrocortisone [0.1 (0.05–0.2) mg], and 17 healthy matched controls. Ten patients were switched to an equivalent dose of OD-HC. Data from echocardiography, 24 h Holter-ECG and 24 h blood pressure monitoring were collected at baseline and 6 months after the switch to OD-HC.

Results

At baseline, AI patients had smaller left ventricular diastolic diameter (47.1 ± 4.2 vs. 51.6 ± 2.3 mm; P = 0.001) and left atrial diameter (34.9 ± 4.7 vs. 38.2 ± 2.6 cm; P = 0.018), and a higher ejection fraction (62.5 ± 6.9% vs. 56.0 ± 4.7%; P = 0.003) than controls. AI patients had lower nocturnal systolic and diastolic blood pressure than controls (108 ± 15 mmHg vs. 117 ± 8 mmHg; P = 0.038 and 65 ± 9 mmHg vs. 73 ± 7 mmHg; P = 0.008, respectively). After the switch to OD-HC, nocturnal diastolic blood pressure normalised. No significant changes were observed in echocardiographic and Holter-ECG parameters following the switch.

Conclusions

AI patients on conventional treatment display cardiovascular abnormalities that could be related to hypovolemia. Switch to OD-HC seems to have beneficial effect on blood pressure profile, but no effect on cardiovascular structure and function.
Spiral path three phase fluidized bed reactor for treating wastewater contaminated with engine oil
Authors: Alwared Abeer I. , Jaber Wisam Sh.
Published: August 2020

In this study, a new type of circulating three-phase fluidized bed reactor was conducted by adding a spiral path and was named as spiral three-phase fluidized bed reactor (TPFB-S) to investigate the possibility for removing engine oil (virgin and waste form) from synthetic wastewater by using Ricinus communis (RC) leaves natural and activated by KOH. The biosorption process was conducted by changing particle diameter in the range 150–300 and 300–600 µm, liquid flow rate in the range 2.5–4.5 L/min and gas flow rate in range of 0–1 L/min, while other parameters initial oil emulsion concentration, pH, adsorbent concentration, agitation speed and contact time were kept constant at 2000 mg/L, 2,400 mg/L, 200 rpm and 90 min, respectively. Both FTIR and SEM tests showed that the Ricinus communis surface contains of active and strong groups; therefore, it shows a morphological characteristic of interest. The tests of FTIR and SEM explained that the adsorbent solid texture consists of negative valences that related to strong and active groups like carboxyl and hydroxyl groups. Furthermore, the results showed that the removal efficiency reaches about 91 and 98% for both virgin and waste oil at 150–300 µm particle size, 3.5 l/min liquid phase flow rate and 1 L/min air flow rate and for 90 min by using natural and activated form of RC leaves, respectively. In addition, results revealed that 95% of oil was recovered from the adsorbent by using 150mL/L of hexane. Finally the results concluded that TPFB-S has a better performance than the traditional fluidized bed, where the removal efficiency was enhanced by about 23% and 17% for removing virgin oil emulsion from aqueous solution by natural and activated form of adsorbent, respectively.
Forbidden patterns in tropical plane curves
Authors: Joswig Michael , Tewari Ayush Kumar
Published: August 2020

Tropical curves in $${\mathbb {R}}^2$$

R

2

correspond to metric planar graphs but not all planar graphs arise in this way. We describe several new classes of graphs which cannot occur. For instance, this yields a full combinatorial characterization of the tropically planar graphs of genus at most five.
Crossmodal Attention Applied
Authors: Spence Charles , Soto-Faraco Salvador
Published: August 2020

Cognitive neuroscientists have started to uncover the neural substrates, systems, and mechanisms enabling us to prioritize the processing of certain sensory information over other, currently less-relevant, inputs. However, there is still a large gap between the knowledge generated in the laboratory and its application to real-life problems of attention as when, for example, interface operators are multi-tasking. In this Element, laboratory studies on crossmodal attention (both behavioural/psychophysical and cognitive neuroscience) are situated within the applied context of driving. We contrast the often idiosyncratic conditions favoured by much of the laboratory research, typically using a few popular paradigms involving simplified experimental conditions, with the noisy, multisensory, real-world environments filled with complex, intrinsically-meaningful stimuli. By drawing attention to the differences between basic and applied studies in the context of driving, we highlight a number of important issues and neglected areas of research as far as the study of crossmodal attention is concerned.
Jungle Tracks: Unleashing the power of stories to heal from refugee trauma
Authors: Fernandes Pearl , Aiello Yvette , Pittaway Emma
Published: August 2020

Children and young people from refugee backgrounds witness and experience multiple traumatic incidents in the context of their refugee journeys that often remain unspoken because of the inherent challenge to think and talk about these experiences. In addition, they encounter ongoing trials when transitioning to their new homes which place them at risk. Jungle Tracks was developed in 2002 to facilitate therapeutic engagement with refugee children and young people in schools, within a preventative framework. It is a collection of five short stories that have been composed to mirror multiple traumas and cumulative struggles including grief and loss, displacement, discrimination, disempowerment, difficulties with sleep and affect regulation. Whilst communicating in a non-threatening manner, the stories encourage the reader/listener to connect and make meaning of their traumas by identifying with the protagonists in the stories. Jungle Tracks not only bypasses initial resistance but also leverages the power of stories to instil hope and unleash innate healing forces. This paper aims to provide an overview of the Jungle Tracks programme and the results of an initial evaluation of the implementation of Jungle Tracks. This was initiated to provide direction for future research and development of the programme. It was concluded that when children and young people are given the opportunity to process and make meaning of their past traumatic experiences, it can assist them to heal and recover and also offer them the potential for post traumatic growth.
Integrating data science into the translational science research spectrum: A substance use disorder case study
Authors: Slade Emily , Dwoskin Linda P. , Zhang Guo-Qiang , Talbert Jeffery C. , Chen Jin , Freeman Patricia R. , Kantak Kathleen M. , Hankosky Emily R. , Fouladvand Sajjad , Meadows Amy L. , Bush Heather M.
Published: August 2020

The availability of large healthcare datasets offers the opportunity for researchers to navigate the traditional clinical and translational science research stages in a nonlinear manner. In particular, data scientists can harness the power of large healthcare datasets to bridge from preclinical discoveries (T0) directly to assessing population-level health impact (T4). A successful bridge from T0 to T4 does not bypass the other stages entirely; rather, effective team science makes a direct progression from T0 to T4 impactful by incorporating the perspectives of researchers from every stage of the clinical and translational science research spectrum. In this exemplar, we demonstrate how effective team science overcame challenges and, ultimately, ensured success when a diverse team of researchers worked together, using healthcare big data to test population-level substance use disorder (SUD) hypotheses generated from preclinical rodent studies. This project, called Advancing Substance use disorder Knowledge using Big Data (ASK Big Data), highlights the critical roles that data science expertise and effective team science play in quickly translating preclinical research into public health impact.
A framework for clinical and translational research in the era of rigor and reproducibility
Authors: Wichman Chris , Smith Lynette M. , Yu Fang
Published: August 2020

Introduction:

Rigor and reproducibility are two important cornerstones of medical and scientific advancement. Clinical and translational research (CTR) contains four phases (T1–T4), involving the translation of basic research to humans, then to clinical settings, practice, and the population, with the ultimate goal of improving public health. Here we provide a framework for rigorous and reproducible CTR.

Methods:

In this paper we define CTR, provide general and phase-specific recommendations for improving quality and reproducibility of CTR with emphases on study design, data collection and management, analyses and reporting. We present and discuss aspects of rigor and reproducibility following published examples of CTR from the literature, including one example that shows the development path of different treatments that address anaplastic lymphoma kinase-positive (ALK+) non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Results:

It is particularly important to consider robust and unbiased experimental design and methodology for analysis and interpretation for clinical translation studies to ensure reproducibility before taking the next translational step. There are both commonality and differences along the clinical translation research phases in terms of research focuses and considerations regarding study design, implementation, and data analysis approaches.

Conclusions:

Sound scientific practices, starting with rigorous study design, transparency, and team efforts can greatly enhance CTR. Investigators from multidisciplinary teams should work along the spectrum of CTR phases, and identify optimal practices for study design, data collection, data analysis, and results reporting to allow timely advances in the relevant field of research.
Psychedelic science in post-COVID-19 psychiatry
Authors: Kelly J. R. , Crockett M. T. , Alexander L. , Haran M. , Baker A. , Burke L. , Brennan C. , O’Keane V.
Published: August 2020

The medium- to long-term consequences of COVID-19 are not yet known, though an increase in mental health problems are predicted. Multidisciplinary strategies across socio-economic and psychological levels may be needed to mitigate the mental health burden of COVID-19. Preliminary evidence from the rapidly progressing field of psychedelic science shows that psilocybin therapy offers a promising transdiagnostic treatment strategy for a range of disorders with restricted and maladaptive habitual patterns of cognition and behaviour, notably depression, addiction and obsessive compulsive disorder. The COMPASS Pathways (COMPASS) phase 2b double-blind trial of psilocybin therapy in antidepressant-free, treatment-resistant depression (TRD) is underway to determine the safety, efficacy and optimal dose of psilocybin. Results from the Imperial College London Psilodep-RCT comparing the efficacy and mechanisms of action of psilocybin therapy to the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) escitalopram will soon be published. However, the efficacy and safety of psilocybin therapy in conjunction with SSRIs in TRD is not yet known. An additional COMPASS study, with a centre in Dublin, will begin to address this question, with potential implications for the future delivery of psilocybin therapy. While at a relatively early stage of clinical development, and notwithstanding the immense challenges of COVID-19, psilocybin therapy has the potential to play an important therapeutic role for various psychiatric disorders in post-COVID-19 clinical psychiatry.
Seven rules for simulations in paleobiology
Authors: Barido-Sottani Joëlle , Saupe Erin E. , Smiley Tara M. , Soul Laura C. , Wright April M. , Warnock Rachel C. M.
Published: August 2020

Simulations are playing an increasingly important role in paleobiology. When designing a simulation study, many decisions have to be made and common challenges will be encountered along the way. Here, we outline seven rules for executing a good simulation study. We cover topics including the choice of study question, the empirical data used as a basis for the study, statistical and methodological concerns, how to validate the study, and how to ensure it can be reproduced and extended by others. We hope that these rules and the accompanying examples will guide paleobiologists when using simulation tools to address fundamental questions about the evolution of life.
Nd isotope composition of the Ediacaran and earliest Cambrian phosphorite nodules and Fe sulphide from the East European Platform
Authors: Felitsyn Sergey B , Bogomolov Eugeny S.
Published: August 2020

An enhanced concentration of phosphorus has been found at the stratigraphic level of the disappearance of Ediacaran taxa in two areas, the Cis-Dniester region and the Moscow syneclise, on the East European Platform (EEP). The isotope composition of neodymium was determined in Fe sulphide and phosphorite in the same beds. MeasuredεNd(t)values in diagenetic phosphate nodules are similar to those in iron sulphide from the same layer. During the Ediacaran − Early Cambrian, accumulation of radiogenic Nd in the epeiric basins on the EEP increased progressively from −17.9 and −19.4 in pyrite from the sequence bottom to −7.9 and −8.5 in the Early Cambrian pyrite of the central part of the EEP. The Ediacaran phosphate nodules showεNd(t)ranging from −12.9 to −15.0, while that in the Early Cambrian nodules is typicallyc. −9.0. These data indicate the secular change in Nd isotope composition of the water reservoir on the EEP from Ediacaran to Cambrian.
The Central Sudetic Ophiolite (European Variscan Belt): precise U–Pb zircon dating and geotectonic implications
Authors: Awdankiewicz Marek , Kryza Ryszard , Turniak Krzysztof , Ovtcharova Maria , Schaltegger Urs
Published: August 2020

Precise U–Pb zircon dating using the chemical abrasion – isotope dilution – thermal ionization mass spectrometry (CA-ID-TIMS) method constrains the age of the Central Sudetic Ophiolite (CSO) in the Variscan Belt of Europe. A felsic gabbro from the Ślęża Massif contains zircon xenocrysts dated at 404.8 ± 0.3 Ma and younger crystals dated at 402.6 ± 0.2 Ma that determine the final crystallization age of the gabbro. An identical age of 402.7 ± 0.3 Ma was determined for plagiogranite from the Nowa Ruda–Słupiec Massif, and plagiogranite from the Braszowice–Brzeźnica Massif yields a similar, but less reliable, age of > 401.2 Ma. The different massifs in the CSO are therefore considered as tectonically dismembered fragments of a single oceanic domain formed atc.402.6–402.7 Ma (Early Devonian – Emsian). The magmatic activity recorded in the CSO was contemporaneous with the high-temperature/high-pressure metamorphism of granulites and peridotites in the Góry Sowie Massif, separating dismembered parts of the CSO. This suggests geodynamic coupling between the continental subduction recorded in the Góry Sowie and the oceanic spreading recorded in the CSO. Regional geological data indicate that the CSO was obducted beforec.383 Ma, less than 20 Ma after its formation at an oceanic spreading centre. The CSO is shown to be one of the oldest and first obducted among the Devonian ophiolites of the Variscan Belt. The CSO probably originated in an evolved back-arc basin in which the influence of subduction-related fluids and melts increased with time, from negligible during the formation of predominant mid-ocean-ridge-type magmatic rocks to strong at later stages, when rodingites, epidosites and other minor lithologies formed.
Late Jurassic – earliest Cretaceous prolonged shelf dysoxic–anoxic event and its possible causes
Authors: Rogov MA , Shchepetova EV , Zakharov VA
Published: August 2020

The Late Jurassic – earliest Cretaceous time interval was characterized by a widespread distribution of dysoxiс–anoxiс environments in temperate- and high-latitude epicontinental seas, which could be defined as a shelf dysoxic–anoxic event (SDAE). In contrast to black shales related to oceanic anoxic events, deposits generated by the SDAE were especially common in shelf sites in the Northern Hemisphere. The onset and termination of the SDAE was strongly diachronous across different regions. The SDAE was not associated with significant disturbances of the carbon cycle. Deposition of organic-carbon-rich sediment and the existence of dysoxic–anoxic conditions during the SDAE lasted up toc.20 Ma, but this event did not cause any remarkable biotic extinction. Temperate- and high-latitude black shale occurrences across the Jurassic–Cretaceous boundary have been reviewed. Two patterns of black shale deposition during the SDAE are recognized: (1) Subboreal type, with numerous thin black shale beds, bounded by sediments with very low total organic carbon (TOC) values; and (2) Boreal type, distinguished by predominantly thick black shale successions showing high TOC values and prolonged anoxic–dysoxic conditions. These types appear to be unrelated to differences in accommodation space, and can be clearly recognized irrespective of the thickness of shale-bearing units. Black shales in high-latitude areas in the Southern Hemisphere strongly resemble Boreal types of black shale by their mode of occurrence. The causes of this SDAE are linked to long-term warming and changes in oceanic circulation. Additionally, the long-term disturbance of planktonic communities may have triggered overall increased productivity in anoxia-prone environments.
Geochemistry and zircon ages of the Yushigou diabase in the Longshoushan area, Alxa Block: implications for crust–mantle interaction and tectonic evolution
Authors: Zeng Ren-Yu , Lai Jian-Qing , Mao Xian-Cheng , Yan Jie , Zhang Chen-Guang , Xiao Wen-Zhou
Published: August 2020

The North Qilian orogenic belt in North China has been defined as a subduction–collision zone between the Alxa Block and the Qilian Block. We present petrography, zircon U–Pb geochronology, major- and trace-element geochemistry, and Sr–Nd–Pb–Hf isotope analysis for the Yushigou diabase from the Longshoushan area, which is located SW of the Alxa Block, aiming to understand its petrogenetic link to subduction processes. The Yushigou diabase belongs to the tholeiite series, and shows enrichment in light rare earth and large-ion lithophile elements, and a depletion in heavy rare earth and high-field-strength elements. Laser ablation – inductively coupled plasma – mass spectrometry U–Pb zircon dating yielded an emplacement age of 414 ± 9 Ma, with an ϵHf(t) value in the range of −10.3 to 1.8. The whole-rock initial 206Pb/204Pb, 207Pb/204Pb and 208Pb/204Pb ratios of the diabase range over 16.811–17.157, 15.331–15.422 and 37.768–37.895, respectively. The (87Sr/86Sr)i ratios vary between 0.7086 and 0.7106, and ϵNd(t) values vary between −14.4 and −13.4, which are significantly higher than the ϵHf(t) value (Nd–Hf decoupling). An interpretation of the elemental and isotopic data suggests that the Yushigou diabase was derived from partial melting of an enriched mantle I (EM-I) -type lithospheric mantle in the spinel–garnet transitional zone. Based on the geochemical features and previous regional geological data, we propose that the Silurian magmatism was most likely triggered by slab break-off after the closure of the North Qilian Ocean, and ancient continental materials from the subduction slab metasomatized the overlying lithospheric mantle during exhumation.
Seminal characterization of the Amazonian fire-eye tetra Moenkhausia oligolepis (Günther, 1864)
Authors: Rodrigues Jeane , Santos Raquel Santos dos , Cordeiro Jhennifer Gomes , Leite Marissol , Oliveira Hingrid Suzzan Tarso Oliveira e , Tercya Hadda , Costa Bruna Patrícia Dutra , Nascimento Nivaldo Ferreira do , Maximino Caio , de Siqueira-Silva Diógenes Henrique
Published: August 2020

The seminal characteristics of Moenkhausia oligolepis are described. Three males were induced with a single dose of carp pituitary. Semen was collected 6 h after induction, and diluted in dibasic sodium phosphate extender solution. For motility analysis, 1 µl of diluted semen was added to 10 µl of distilled water to achieve gamete activation. The average duration of total motility was 76.67 s; while the average sperm motility rate at intervals of 15 s was 95.3, 85.3, 59.6, 31.7, 13.0, 4.6 and 1.2%. To determine sperm concentration in samples, 0.5 μl of semen was diluted with 500 μl of glutaraldehyde. An aliquot of 10 μl of this dilution was utilized for cell counting. An average count of 4.97 × 109 ± 3.46 sperm/ml was obtained. Morphological analyses were performed using eosin–nigrosine dye; 20.33% of the sperm were observed to be dead. Live sperm, comprising the other 79.67%, had an average length of approximately 30 µm, with a head diameter of 4.488 ± 0.7 µm; and a flagella plus mid-piece length of 26.071 ± 12.4 µm. Of those sperm, 69% had a normal morphology, while 31% had primary and secondary abnormalities. The observed abnormality rate did not have a detrimental effect on artificial fertilization potential for the species. The description of the seminal characteristics of a species is one of the most important sets of information required for artificial reproduction of fish in captivity. It also contributes significantly to the total biological knowledge of the studied species.
Catheter-induced acute Blalock–Taussig shunt thrombosis and bailout
Authors: Mohammad Nijres Bassel , Nelson Paul M. , Vettukattil Joseph J.
Published: August 2020

Modified Blalock–Taussig shunt thrombosis is a life-threatening event. We describe an extremely rare catheter-induced shunt thrombosis in an infant with complex CHD and its successful treatment utilising a single low dose of local recombinant tissue plasminogen activator in conjunction with balloon angioplasty.
CONFEDERATE MONUMENT INSCRIPTIONS
Authors: O’Connell Heather A. , Forrest Danequa L.
Published: August 2020

Confederate monuments are a contested piece of the public landscape. Debates generally focus on the division between “heritage” and “hate,” but some scholars have argued that the meaning of monuments is more complex. There is little research examining variation among Confederate monuments, but this may be critical to understanding their social foundations and consequences. We provide insight into Confederate monuments and their complexity by examining their inscriptions and how the use of different inscriptions changed over time and varies between the Upper South and Deep South. We employ content analysis to organize the inscriptions associated with 856 Confederate monuments located in public spaces throughout the U.S. South into common themes. Our results suggest three distinct types of inscriptions: those connected to the lost cause ideology that glorifies the Confederacy and its cause; those that were comparatively plain in their description of people, places, and events; and others that focused exclusively on mourning the death of Confederate soldiers. The majority of monuments (59%) contain a Lost Cause inscription. Plain monuments comprise 35%, and only 6% of public Confederate monuments were dedicated purely to the dead. Our descriptive analysis also indicates substantial temporal and spatial variation in the use of these different types of inscriptions. Despite sharing a connection to the Confederacy, we assert that the specific messages associated with a monument are more varied and, in part, reflect the social conditions of the time and place in which they were built.