bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New higher derivative action for tensor multiplet in $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 2 conformal supergravity in four dimensions
Authors: Hegde Subramanya , Sahoo Bindusar
Published: January 2020

Abstract

We will use the covariant superform approach to develop a new density formula for $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 2 conformal supergravity which is based on a fermionic multiplet whose lowest component is a dimension-5/2 spinor. We will show that this density formula admits an embedding of the real scalar multiplet of [1]. Upon using the embedding of the tensor multiplet into the real scalar multiplet, we will construct a new higher derivative action of the tensor multiplet in $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 2 conformal supergravity.
Flavored extended instanton in QCD
Authors: Gorsky A. , Grekov A.
Published: January 2020

Abstract

We discuss new flavored space-like defects in confined QCD which can be considered as the Euclidean extended instantons carrying the topologically quantized currents. We focus on the simplest ld space-like defect -the S-Skyrmion solution extended in one space coordinate and localized in Euclidean time. It can be identified both in the holographic QCD and in the Chiral Perturbation Theory(ChPT). The Skyrmion charges get transformed into the corresponding currents for S-Skyrmion. The analogy with the Thouless pump and the quantum phase slip phenomena is mentioned.
The Stochastic Viscous Cahn–Hilliard Equation: Well-Posedness, Regularity and Vanishing Viscosity Limit
Authors: Scarpa Luca
Published: January 2020

Well-posedness is proved for the stochastic viscous Cahn–Hilliard equation with homogeneous Neumann boundary conditions and Wiener multiplicative noise. The double-well potential is allowed to have any growth at infinity (in particular, also super-polynomial) provided that it is everywhere defined on the real line. A vanishing viscosity argument is carried out and the convergence of the solutions to the ones of the pure Cahn–Hilliard equation is shown. Some refined regularity results are also deduced for both the viscous and the non-viscous case.
Mapping Adolescents’ Sense of Place and Perceptions of Change in an Urban–Rural Transition Area
Authors: Hewitt Richard J. , Pera Florencia A. , García-Martín María , Gaudry-Sada Karl-Heinz , Hernández-Jiménez Verónica , Bieling Claudia
Published: January 2020

Landscapes are changing, with rural areas becoming increasingly urbanized. Children and adolescents are underrepresented in the sense-of-place literature. Our study aimed to understand how adolescent residents of a rural–urban transition area perceive and value their urbanizing landscape by examining sense of place and perceptions of landscape change. A Public Participation GIS approach, accompanied by a questionnaire survey, was applied to elicit responses from a sample of 747 students aged 12–18 in Colmenar Viejo, Madrid (Spain). Respondents’ sense of “self-in-place” or home range was small, around 1 km, although valued places were identified up to around 17 km away, and occasionally further afield. Most responses were associated with urban land, with clear difference between the urban core, strongly associated with emotions, and the suburbs, with activities. Functional locations (i.e. sports facilities) and places which were valued for their social meaning (i.e. shopping malls), could be differentiated. Students were perceptive about change processes in the urban area, but not about those on the peripheral semi-natural land. Younger children were less aware than older children of spaces outside of the town and carried out fewer activities there. Females carried out fewer outdoor activities than male adolescents. In contrast to the adult population, students were more strongly focused on urban areas than on their surrounding rural landscapes. Here, awareness-raising and incentives are needed, particularly those encouraging females into the use of areas beyond the urban land. Our results suggest a lack of meaningful integration between the core city and the periphery, with lessons for urban planners.
Relationship between cervical and global sagittal balance in patients with dropped head syndrome
Authors: Murata Kazuma , Endo Kenji , Aihara Takato , Suzuki Hidekazu , Matsuoka Yuji , Nishimura Hirosuke , Takamatsu Taichiro , Kusakabe Takuya , Maekawa Asato , Yamamoto Kengo
Published: January 2020

Background

DHS is characterized by chin-on-chest deformity and devastatingly impedes activities of daily living in affected individuals. There is a paucity of literature about the pathophysiology of DHS including knowledge about spinal sagittal alignment. We conducted this study to clarify the relationship between cervical sagittal alignment and global sagittal balance in DHS.

Methods

This is a retrospective radiographic study of a case series of DHS. Forty-one patients with diagnosed DHS were enrolled. Measurements were made using lateral standing radiograph.

Results

C2–C7 sagittal vertical axis (SVA) was estimated as 52.0 ± 2.4 mm. Among sagittal parameters, C7–S1 SVA positively correlated with C2–C7 angle (C2–C7 A) (r = 0.33). For the correlations between C7 and S1 SVA and C2–C7 A, both logistic and linear regression models were used to determine the threshold for C2–C7 A value responsible for global sagittal balance. C2–C7 A of − 15.0 and 6.0 were predicted by logistic and linear regression models and were considered responsible for the occurrence of global positive imbalance. Therefore, we divided into two groups, namely, cervical kyphosis group (C type) and diffuse kyphosis group (D type) by median value of C2–C7 A. Enlarged thoracic kyphosis and global positive imbalance were observed in D type compared to C type.

Conclusion

C2–C7 A exhibited correlations with cervical balance and also with global balance. There should be various type of thoraco-lumbar alignment in DHS.

Graphic abstract

These slides can be retrieved under Electronic Supplementary Material.
Missing temporal effects of soil insecticides and entomopathogenic nematodes in reducing the maize pest Diabrotica virgifera virgifera
Authors: Toth Szabolcs , Szalai Mark , Kiss Jozsef , Toepfer Stefan
Published: January 2020

Control methods for the larvae of the maize pestDiabrotica virgifera virgifera(Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) are known to produce inconsistent results under field conditions. To better understand the effects of plant protection products on the root-feeding larvae, we looked for changes in efficacy of the granular soil insecticides chlorpyrifos, cypermethrin, and tefluthrin during a cropping season, as well as a fluid-applied entomopathogenic nematodeHeterorhabditis bacteriophora(Rhabditida: Heterorhabditidae). Twelve field-scale experiments carried out in Hungary between 2010 and 2018 revealed that treatments, whether chemical or biological, are able to reduceD. v. virgifera. However, results were variable with failures in about a quarter of the experiments. Unexpectedly, our findings indicated only limited effect of time on treatments, meaning all products appeared capable of continuously reducing larvae during their time in the soil. Only chlorpyrifos seemed to slightly lose and tefluthrin to slightly increase efficacy over time. Nevertheless, there is no major evidence that failure of treatments is due to temporal effects. Other factors may play a larger role and merit investigation under field conditions.
Systematic prey preference by introduced mice exhausts the ecosystem on Antipodes Island
Authors: Russell James C. , Peace Joanne E. , Houghton Melissa J. , Bury Sarah J. , Bodey Thomas W.
Published: January 2020

House mice (Mus musculus) are a widespread invasive species on islands. Where they are the sole introduced mammal they can have particularly strong negative impacts on recipient ecosystems. House mice impacts have been documented on almost every component of the terrestrial ecosystem on Southern Ocean islands, including plants, invertebrates, birds and ecosystem function. We undertook a comprehensive study to determine the impacts of house mice on Antipodes Island, New Zealand. This study was done prior to mouse eradication to inform monitoring and restoration. We used invertebrate pitfall trapping on the main Antipodes Island and neighbouring mouse-free offshore islands together with mouse stomach contents and stable isotope analyses of mouse livers to examine dietary preferences. We identified directly impacted and consumed invertebrate Orders relative to their abundance and provided a comprehensive picture of resource flow and overlap in the invaded terrestrial ecosystem. The remote terrestrial ecosystem of Antipodes Island was tightly circumscribed with strong resource overlap. Mouse diet varied seasonally with resource availability, dominated by invertebrates and land birds in summer, and plants and seabirds in winter. Invertebrates that were preferentially preyed upon were Amphipoda, Lepidoptera and some species of Coleoptera. These patterns suggest the ecosystem is annually driven by a seasonal bottom-up resource pulse over summer, where mice are a selective predator, differentially preying on invertebrates relative to invertebrate abundance. Mice appear to be exhausting preferred prey as they systematically consume their way through the terrestrial ecosystem. Land bird diet also varied seasonally and some of these birds likely competed with mice for invertebrate prey. Eradication of mice from Antipodes Island should reduce the predation on invertebrates and reduce the effects of competition and predation on land birds. This should have flow-on effects to the abundance of invertebrates and endemic land bird sub-species of pipit and snipe.
Integrating an individual-based model with approximate Bayesian computation to predict the invasion of a freshwater fish provides insights into dispersal and range expansion dynamics
Authors: Dominguez Almela Victoria , Palmer Stephen C. F. , Gillingham Phillipa K. , Travis Justin M. J. , Britton J. Robert
Published: January 2020

Short-distance dispersal enables introduced alien species to colonise and invade local habitats following their initial introduction, but is often poorly understood for many freshwater taxa. Knowledge gaps in range expansion of alien species can be overcome using predictive approaches such as individual based models (IBMs), especially if predictions can be improved through fitting to empirical data, but this can be challenging for models having multiple parameters. We therefore estimated the parameters of a model implemented in the RangeShifter IBM platform by approximate Bayesian computation (ABC) in order to predict the further invasion of a lowland river (Great Ouse, England) by a small-bodied invasive fish (bitterling Rhodeus sericeus). Prior estimates for parameters were obtained from the literature and expert opinion. Model fitting was conducted using a time-series (1983 to 2018) of sampling data at fixed locations and revealed that for 5 of 11 model parameters, the posterior distributions differed markedly from prior assumptions. In particular, sub-adult maximum emigration probability was substantially higher in the posteriors than priors. Simulations of bitterling range expansion predicted that following detection in 1984, their early expansion involved a relatively high population growth rate that stabilised after 5 years. The pattern of bitterling patch occupancy was sigmoidal, with 20% of the catchment occupied after 20 years, increasing to 80% after 30 years. Predictions were then for 95% occupancy after 69 years. The development of this IBM thus successfully simulated the range expansion dynamics of this small-bodied invasive fish, with ABC improving the simulation precision. This combined methodology also highlighted that sub-adult dispersal was more likely to contribute to the rapid colonisation rate than expert opinion suggested. These results emphasise the importance of time-series data for refining IBM parameters generally and increasing our understanding of dispersal behaviour and range expansion dynamics specifically.
Urban Tracer Dispersion and Infiltration into Buildings Over a 2-km Scale
Authors: Matthews J. C. , Wright M. D. , Martin D. , Bacak A. , Priestley M. , Bannan T. J. , Silva H. G. , Flynn M. , Percival C. J. , Shallcross D. E.
Published: January 2020

Field experiments were undertaken in the summer of 2015 in Manchester, UK, to investigate the dispersion behaviour and infiltration into buildings of gas-phase pollutants over horizontal distances of 1–5 km. Inert cyclic perfluorocarbon tracers were released for 15 min at either one or three release points and samples taken in locations indoors and outdoors up to 2 km downwind. Background measurements of these cyclic perfluorocarbons range between 5.6 and 12.6 parts per quadrillion (ppq). On most occasions, tracer concentrations are higher on the sixth floor than at ground level. Tracer concentrations persist in the least well-ventilated rooms after concentrations return to background levels outdoors. The highest tracer concentrations, 329 ppq above background, occur at dawn on 23 July from a sixth-floor sampling position during thermally stable conditions. At low wind speeds, tracer is detected upwind of the prevailing wind direction; on 24 July, tracer is detected to the north-west of the release point for north-north-east wind direction. A simple street network model does not predict tracer concentrations at low wind speeds over the km scales in this investigation due to tracer likely escaping the urban canopy. Predictions from a simple correlation model overestimate concentrations originating from distant sources, which is believed to be due to infiltration into buildings along the journey from source to receptor. A Gaussian plume model predicts the highest tracer concentrations for most receptor points on 23 July when the lowest Obukhov length of – 26 m was measured, agreeing with tracer measurements.
Low consistency refined ligno-cellulose microfibre: an MFC alternative for high bulk, tear and tensile mechanical pulp papers
Authors: Jahangir Emilia S. , Olson James A.
Published: January 2020

Low consistency (LC) refining of (chemi-)thermomechanical pulp (TMP) provides an energy efficient alternative to high consistency refining for pulp property development. However, the benefit of LC refining is often limited by excessive fibre shortening, lower tear strength and a reduction of bulk caused by the refining process. In this study, microfibres produced by LC refining of TMP and kraft pulp fibres were investigated for their reinforcement potential in high freeness mechanical pulp. Primary pulp at 645 mL Canadian Standard Freeness was LC refined to different energy targets as a baseline for mechanical and optical property development. In contrast, the same primary pulp was reinforced with different microfibre types in ratios that yielded the same specific energies of the baseline LC refined pulp. The study revealed that at equivalent energies, the addition of TMP microfibres to the high freeness primary pulp displayed tensile development identical to the LC refined pulp, with significantly improved tear and bulk. The addition of kraft microfibre to primary pulp produced the highest tensile and tear strength but compromised light scattering. Additionally, all microfibre composites showed improved elongation, as opposed to no notable change in elongation with conventional LC refining. This investigation proposes an alternative, cost-effective approach for developing high bulk, high strength mechanical pulp by limiting the extent of second stage refining and using LC refined microfibres for pulp reinforcement. The high tear–high bulk open construction of the composite paper is likely to benefit boxboard and packaging applications.
A 6-Year Longitudinal Study of Adolescents and Mothers Depression Symptoms and Their Perception of Support and Conflict
Authors: Hale William W. , Nelemans Stefanie A. , Meeus Wim H. J. , Branje Susan J. T.
Published: January 2020

Interpersonal theories of adolescent depression assume that adolescent and maternal depression symptoms affect adolescent and maternal perceptions of their relationship quality. However, little attention has been given to examining potential bidirectional prospective associations between both adolescent and maternal perceptions of the mother–adolescent relationship and adolescent and maternal depression symptoms across adolescence. We hypothesized that the longitudinal associations between adolescent and maternal depression symptoms and adolescent and maternal perception of conflict and support in the mother–adolescent relationship would be bidirectional. In this 6-year longitudinal study, 497 adolescents (Mage = 13.03) and their mothers participated. Each year both adolescents and their mothers completed questionnaires of their depression symptoms and their perception of conflict and support in the mother–adolescent relationship. Structural equation modelling cross-lagged panel models were constructed and analyzed. The cross-lagged panel models found bidirectional longitudinal associations between adolescent depressive symptoms and higher adolescent-reported conflict and lower adolescent-reported support. In contrast, maternal depressive symptoms were only unidirectionally associated with higher maternal-reported conflict, lower maternal-reported support and higher adolescent depression symptoms. Finally, positive bidirectional longitudinal associations were found between adolescent-reported and maternal-reported conflict, and between adolescent-reported and maternal-reported support. The findings of this study are discussed in relation to Interpersonal Psychotherapy for Depressed Adolescents (IPT-A).
Effects of vineyard inter-row management on the diversity and abundance of plants and surface-dwelling invertebrates in Central Romania
Authors: Fiera Cristina , Ulrich Werner , Popescu Daniela , Bunea Claudiu-Ioan , Manu Minodora , Nae Ioana , Stan Melania , Markó Bálint , Urák István , Giurginca Andrei , Penke Nicole , Winter Silvia , Kratschmer Sophie , Buchholz Jacob , Querner Pascal , Zaller Johann G.
Published: January 2020

Vineyard inter-rows are important biodiversity hotspots within agricultural landscapes, especially when they are covered with vegetation. However, little is known on the effects to management intensity on a broad range of surface-dwelling invertebrates and their interaction with vegetation. We assessed the diversity and activity density of ants, beetles, millipedes, mites, spiders, springtails and woodlice using pitfall traps in vineyards with either high management intensity (HI) consisting of frequently tilled inter-rows or low management intensity (LO) with alternating tillage in every second inter-row. The study was performed in the Târnave wine region in Central Romania. We wanted to know whether, (i) vineyard management intensity affects the diversity of plants and invertebrates, and (ii) local habitat characteristics affect species richness of different functional guilds and taxa. Species richness of some invertebrate taxa (Coleoptera, Araneae, Formicidae) did significantly differ between HI and LO vineyards. Only phytophages (some Coleoptera) increased in species richness and activity density with vegetation cover. Vineyard soil properties (organic matter content, pH, P, and K) did not significantly differ between HI and LO vineyards. We conclude that vineyard inter-row management can affect both the conservation of biodiversity and the provision of biodiversity-driven ecosystem services.
Improper monitoring and deviations from physiologic treatment goals in patients with brain injury in the early phases of emergency care
Authors: Andersen Siri Kojen , Hustveit Ragnhild , Frøland Erlend , Uleberg Oddvar , Krüger Andreas , Klepstad Pål , Nordseth Trond
Published: January 2020

Severe traumatic brain injury (TBI), out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) and intracerebral- and subarachnoid hemorrhage (ICH/SAH) are conditions associated with high mortality and morbidity. The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility of obtaining continuous physiologic data and to identify possible harmful physiological deviations in these patients, in the early phases of emergency care. Patients with ICH/SAH, OHCA and severe TBI treated by the Physician-staffed Emergency Medical Service (P-EMS) between September and December 2016 were included. Physiological data were obtained from site of injury/illness, during transport, in the emergency department (ED) and until 3 h after admittance to the intensive care unit. Physiological deviations were based on predefined target values within each 5-min interval. 13 patients were included in the study, of which 38% survived. All patients experienced one or more episodes of hypoxia, 38% experienced episodes of hypercapnia and 46% experienced episodes of hypotension. The mean proportion of time without any monitoring in the pre-hospital phase was 29%, 47% and 56% for SpO2, end-tidal CO2 and systolic blood pressure, respectively. For the ED these proportions were 57%, 71% and 56%, respectively. Continuous physiological data was not possible to obtain in this study of critically ill and injured patients with brain injury. The patients had frequent deviations in blood pressure, SpO2 and end tidal CO2-levels, and measurements were frequently missing. There is a potential for improved monitoring as a tool for quality improvement in pre-hospital critical care.
Traces of the Invisible: How an Alternative Reading of The Sleeping Beauty Fashioned a Bookwork Heightening Awareness of the Role of the Anesthetist
Authors: Brixey-Williams Julie
Published: January 2020

This article discusses a Leverhulme residency undertaken by the author Julie Brixey-Williams in 2003–4 at the Association of Anaesthetists of Great Britain and Ireland. Notions of medical visibility were explored through practice-led investigations under the umbrella title, Traces of the Invisible, that concentrated on making concrete, visible responses to the hidden or intangible elements of the anesthetist’s working life in areas such as sleep, breath, pain and genetic markers. Rosebud is a unique nine-foot concertina bookwork created after reading the entire story of The Sleeping Beauty into an anesthetic machine. This essay expands upon the concepts and material responses that led to the making of the book with particular reference to how the book’s structure forms a relationship to language and the body-as-site, whilst operating as a sculptural object that raises the visibility of the anesthetic profession. Fairy tales and their telling, including stories of enchanted sleep, transformational qualities, magical languages and shaman healers, will be examined alongside.
Differential scanning calorimetry reveals that whole-body cryostimulation in cross-country skiers can modify their response to physical effort
Authors: Michnik Anna , Pokora Ilona , Duch Klaudia , Sadowska-Krępa Ewa
Published: January 2020

In sport medicine, cryostimulation is used to help athletes to better support the training workload, to prevent the deleterious effects of strenuous exercise and to improve recovery. In this study, eight elite cross-country skiers had two experimental exercise sessions differing in that the second one was carried out after a series of 10 whole-body cryostimulation (WBC) treatments. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) was applied to compare changes in athlete’s blood serum during both sessions. Mean DSC curves of serum collected in four stages of the training session: before exercise, after exercise, at 1 h recovery and after 24 h of rest have shown a similar nature of post-exercise changes and recovery regardless of the WBC. Statistically significant effect of the exercise, reflected in some parameters of serum denaturation transition, has been found. Too small number of participants in our study did not allow to verify the hypothesis that WBC favorably modifies athletes’ reaction to the effort and improves post-exercise recovery, but such trends emerged.
Activation of PPAR-β/δ Attenuates Brain Injury by Suppressing Inflammation and Apoptosis in a Collagenase-Induced Intracerebral Hemorrhage Mouse Model
Authors: Tang Xiangming , Yan Kunning , Wang Yingge , Wang Yaping , Chen Hongmei , Xu Jiang , Lu Yaoyao , Wang Xiaohong , Liang Jingyan , Zhang Xinjiang
Published: January 2020

Brain injury has been proposed as the major cause of the poor outcomes associated with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Emerging evidence indicates that the nuclear receptor, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor β/δ (PPAR-β/δ), plays a crucial role in the pathological process of central nervous impairment. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the protective effects of PPAR-β/δ activation using a selective PPAR-β/δ agonist, GW0742, against brain injury after ICH in a mouse model. ICH was induced by intravenous injection of collagenase into the right caudate putamen. To examine the protective effect of PPAR-β/δ activation against ICH-induced brain injury, mice were either intraperitoneally injected with GW0742 (3 mg/kg, body weight) or saline (control group) 30 min before inducing ICH. Behavioral dysfunction was evaluated 24 and 72 h after injury. Then, all mice were killed to assess hematoma volume, brain water content, and blood–brain barrier (BBB) permeability. TUNEL and Nissl staining were performed to quantify the brain injury. The expression of PPAR-β/δ, interleukin (IL)-1β, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, Bcl-2-related X-protein (Bax), and B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) in the perihematomal area was examined by immunohistochemistry and western blotting analysis. Mice treated with GW0742 showed significantly less severe behavioral deficits compared to the control group, accompanied by increased expression of PPAR-β/δ and Bcl-2, and increased expression of IL-1β, TNF-α, and Bax decreased simultaneously in the GW0742-treated group. Furthermore, the GW0742-pretreated group showed significantly less brain edema and BBB leakage. Neuronal loss was attenuated, and the number of apoptotic neuronal cells in perihematomal tissues reduced, in the GW0742-pretreated group compared to the control group. However, the hematoma volume did not decrease significantly on day 3 after ICH. These results suggest that the activation of PPAR-β/δ exerts a neuroprotective effect on ICH-induced brain injury, possibly through anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic pathways.
Impact of an in-situ Cr(VI)-contaminated site remediation on the groundwater
Authors: Sedlazeck Klaus Philipp , Vollprecht Daniel , Müller Peter , Mischitz Robert , Gieré Reto
Published: January 2020

This study presents the latest results of the groundwater monitoring of a research project, which tested an innovative pump and treat method in combination with an in-situ remediation. This technique was assessed on an abandoned site in Austria, where two hot spots of hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) were located. For the in-situ remediation, a strong reducing agent (sodium dithionite) was injected into the underground to reduce Cr(VI) to Cr(III) by using different injection strategies. Throughout this treatment, part of the Cr(VI) is mobilized and not instantly reduced. To prevent a further spreading of the mobilized Cr(VI), the pump and treat method, which uses zero-valent iron to clean the groundwater, was installed downgradient of the hot spots. Based on the groundwater sample analyses, it was possible to distinguish different remediation phases, characterized by excess chromate and excess sulfite. During the excess sulfite conditions, Cr(VI) was successfully removed from the system, but after terminating the sodium dithionite injection, the Cr(VI) rebounded.
Supporting employers to enhance the return to work of cancer survivors: development of a web-based intervention (MiLES intervention)
Authors: Greidanus M. A. , de Boer A. G. E. M. , Tiedtke C. M. , Frings-Dresen M. H. W. , de Rijk A. E. , Tamminga S. J.
Published: January 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to develop an intervention targeting employers, with the aim of enhancing cancer survivors’ return to work (RTW).

Methods

Intervention Mapping was used to combine information gathered from several procedures involving numerous stakeholders, for example, employers, cancer survivors, oncological occupational physicians, and e-health experts.

Results

Employers indicated that they require tailored support during four RTW phases: (1) disclosure, (2) treatment, (3) RTW planning, and (4) actual RTW. The most important employer actions were identified for each RTW phase, for instance, “communicate,” “support practically,” and “assess work ability,” and thereafter formulated as the performance objectives of the intervention. The trans-theoretical model of change was used as a theoretical framework, and several methodologies were employed to induce the desired behavior change, for example modeling, tailoring, and active learning. Subsequently, a web-based intervention with interactive videos, conversation checklists, links to reliable external sources, and succinct, tailored tips and information was developed and adjusted on the basis of pre-tests with different stakeholders.

Conclusions

The intervention was developed with input from employers and all relevant stakeholders in the RTW of cancer survivors. The systematic, step-wise development resulted in a succinct and easily accessible intervention targeting the most important employer actions during all RTW phases. As such, the intervention corresponds with employers’ needs and preferences in practice.

Implications for cancer survivors

By providing employers with support, the intervention could well be the missing link in efforts to optimize the work participation of cancer survivors.
Optimizing Treatment for Adults with HIV/AIDS in China: Successes over Two Decades and Remaining Challenges
Authors: Cao Wei , Hsieh Evelyn , Li Taisheng
Published: January 2020

Purpose of Review

The introduction of the National Free Antiretroviral Therapy Program (NFATP) in 2003 by the China National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention has led to dramatic increases in antiretroviral therapy (ART) coverage among HIV-infected Chinese patients. Despite limitations in the number of available free antiretroviral drugs, the overall mortality associated with HIV/AIDS has dropped from 39.3 per 100 person-years in 2002 to 3.1 in 2014. In this review, we summarize the challenges, responses, and achievements of antiretroviral therapy (ART) in China over the past 20 years.

Recent Findings

Continuous optimization of the Chinese National Guidelines for HIV/AIDS Diagnosis and Treatment has been guided by data from serial domestic multi-center studies aimed at evaluating efficacy and toxicity of available ART regimens among Chinese patients with HIV, with the goal of maximizing adherence, access, and efficacy. In addition, increasing attention has been focused on the importance of continuity in the HIV care cascade to promote linkage to care, and address the multidisciplinary chronic care needs HIV/AIDS patients on lifelong ART.

Great progress has been achieved in the past 20 years in terms of access to and optimization of antiretroviral treatment in China. As the number of patients receiving long-term ART continues to grow, the focus of HIV/AIDS treatment has gradually transitioned from urgent care to the management of non-AIDS-related chronic complications and control of chronic inflammation.
Identification of Novel Pathogenic Sequence Variants of the Mismatch Repair Genes During Screening for Lynch Syndrome in a Single Centre of Eastern Hungary
Authors: Kóder Gergely , Olasz Judit , Tanyi Janos L. , George Erin , Tóth László , Antal-Szalmás Péter , Nagy Béla , Bubán Tamás , András Csilla , Urbancsek Hilda , Laczik Miklós , Csuka Orsolya , Damjanovich László , Tanyi Miklós
Published: January 2020

Introduction

Lynch syndrome is an autosomal dominant disorder, most frequent leading to colon cancer. Identification of patients with Lynch syndrome and screening of their family members are available prevention approach that can significantly decrease mortality. Unfortunately, routine screening still does not belong to standard of care in Hungary. In this study, we performed a comprehensive screening in order to identify patients with mismatch repair (MMR) mutation between the years of 2011 and 2014. Identified mutations were compared with those already published in the international databases.

Patients and Methods

Patients who underwent treatment for colorectal cancer at the Surgical Institute of the University of Debrecen were screened using the modified Amsterdam and Bethesda Criteria. Immunohistochemistry and microsatellite analyses were performed in order to identify possible mutation carrier cases. Suspicious cases underwent DNA sequencing to detect mutations in the mismatch repair genes (hMLH1, hMSH2).

Results

All together 760 colorectal cancer patients were screened. A total of 28 patients were identified as possible MMR mutation carrier and underwent further genetic evaluation. Pathogenic sequence variants of the MMR gene were found in 5 patients. Hypermethylation of the promoter region of thehMLH1gene was identified in 2 patients. Two out of the 5 pathogenic sequence variants of the MMR gene were first identified by our group while other 2 mutations were previously published as possible founder mutations.

Conclusion

Identification of families with Lynch syndrome, while challenging because of variable phenotypes at diagnosis, is feasible with available molecular biological technologies and crucial to reduce mortality caused by this syndrome.
The analysis of flow behavior of Ti-6Al-2Sn-4Zr-6Mo alloy based on the processing maps
Authors: Lypchanskyi Oleksandr , Śleboda Tomasz , Wojtaszek Marek , Muszka Krzysztof , Łukaszek-Sołek Aneta , Stanik Rafał , Gude Maik
Published: January 2020

The paper presents the analysis of hot deformation behavior of Ti-6Al-2Sn-4Zr-6Mo (Ti-6246) alloy using the theory of dynamic material modeling (DMM) based on hot compression tests performed to a total true strain of 1 at the strain rates from 0.01 to 100 s−1 and at the temperatures within the range between 800 and 1100 °C. The processing maps according to the Prasad’s criterion were developed. The analysis of the processing maps allowed for the placement of domains describing the areas of potentially favorable combinations of hot deformation parameters. The microstructure observations of the investigated alloy specimens after hot deformation in stability and instability areas were conducted. The optimal processing parameters for numerical modeling of Ti-6246 alloy forging were selected based on processing maps. After complex analysis of the obtained results, microstructural observations and numerical modeling of forging of selected part, the forging tests of Ti-6246 alloy were realized. The obtained product quality assessment was carried out by computed tomography non-destructive testing.
Influences of environmental conditions in the fish assemblage structure of a tropical estuary
Authors: Molina Andrés , Duque Guillermo , Cogua Pilar
Published: January 2020

Three fish assemblages (functional groups according to estuary use) were examined, which presented different responses to environmental variations, mainly associated to the dry and rainy seasons and high and low salinities and temperatures in the Buenaventura Bay estuary, Colombia, Tropical Eastern Pacific. In total, 4674 individuals were collected, belonging to 69 species of 29 families. The most abundant species wasSphoeroides trichocephalus(35% of the total density). The assemblage of estuarine-resident fishes showed high tolerance to environmental variations since these were present all along the estuary and throughout the year. The assemblage of marine estuarine–dependent species was associated with the rainy season and low salinities and temperatures. The assemblages of marine estuarine opportunist fishes were associated with areas of higher environmental variability in both seasons, dry and rainy. Fish species belonging to the same functional group showed variations in their response to environmental changes which evidenced complex spatial and temporal dynamics. Understanding these changes is necessary to generate effective management plans based on scientific ecological knowledge, which include environmental impacts present in this estuary such as microplastics, heavy metals, and effects of dredging, and their effects on the ecosystem.
Lithology controlled soil organic carbon stabilization in an alpine grassland of the Peruvian Andes
Authors: Yang Songyu , Jansen Boris , Kalbitz Karsten , Chunga Castro Fresia O. , van Hall Rutger L. , Cammeraat Erik L. H.
Published: January 2020

Alpine grasslands of the Neotropical Andes have high soil organic carbon (SOC) stocks and provide crucial ecosystem services. However, stability of the SOC in these grasslands is not well-studied. Having insights into SOC stability contributes to a better understanding of ecosystem vulnerability and maintaining of ecosystem services. The objectives were to get a first insight into organic matter (OM) stabilization in soils from different bedrocks of Andean alpine grasslands near Cajamarca, Peru (7° 11″ S, 78° 35″ W) and how this controls SOC stocks. Samples were collected from soils formed on limestone and acid igneous rocks. Stabilization mechanisms of OM were investigated using selective extraction methods separating active Fe, Al and Ca fractions and determined SOC stocks. In both soil types, the results showed important contributions of complexation with and/or adsorption on Fe and Al (oxides) to OM stabilization. Exclusively in the limestone soils, Ca induced OM stabilization by promoting the formation of Ca2+ bridges between OM and mineral surfaces. Furthermore, no evidence showed that OM stabilization was controlled by crystalline Fe oxides, clay contents, allophones, Al toxicity or aggregate stability. Limestone soils had significantly higher SOC stocks (405 ± 42 Mg ha−1) compared to the acid igneous rock soils (226 ± 6 Mg ha−1), which is likely explained by OM stabilization related to Ca2+ bridges in addition to the stabilization related to Fe and Al (oxides) in the limestone soils. Our results suggest a shift from OM stabilization dominated by Fe and Al (oxides) to that with the presence of Ca-related cation bridges, with increasing pH values driven by lithology.
Case report. Zinner-syndroom: een zeldzame oorzaak van agenesie van de nier
Authors: te Dorsthorst Manon J. , Prins-van Uden M. , Niekel Ronald , van Balken Michael R.
Published: January 2020

Samenvatting

De trias nieragenesie, ipsilaterale retentiecyste van de vesicula seminalis en obstructie van de ductus ejaculatorius is een zeldzaam syndroom, dat in 1914 voor het eerst werd beschreven door dr. Zinner. Het syndroom ontstaat doordat tijdens de embryogenese een aberrante ductus mesonephricus (buis van Wolff) ontstaat en geen ureterknop wordt gevormd. Dit leidt tot ipsilaterale nieragenesie en obstructie van de ductus ejaculatorius, welke uiteindelijk leidt tot dilatatie van de vesicula seminales. De diagnose wordt meestal bij toeval gesteld, hoewel patiënten zich ook kunnen presenteren met klachten, zoals dysurie, frequency, urgency, hematurie/hematospermie, scrotalgie en pijn bij ejaculatie. De diagnose wordt gesteld op basis van diverse beeldvormende technieken, waarbij de MRI-scan vaak het sluitende bewijs geeft. Dit case report het diagnose- en behandeltraject bij drie patiënten. Daarnaast wordt een overzicht van de embryologie en huidige stand van zaken binnen de beeldvorming en behandeling van het Zinner-syndroom gegeven.
Correction to: The effect of Merpol surfactant on the morphology and performance of PES/PVP membranes: antibiotic separation
Authors: Omidvar Maryam , Hejri Zahra , Moarefian Ahmad
Published: January 2020

In the original publication of the article, the affiliation of the authors Maryam Omidvar and Zahra Hejri are incorrect; the corrected affiliation is given in this erratum article.
Treatment of the sensory and motor components of urges to eat (eating addiction?): a mobile-health pilot study for obesity in young people
Authors: Pretlow Robert A. , Stock Carol M. , Roeger Leigh , Allison Stephen
Published: January 2020

Purpose

Compelling evidence indicates that an addictive process might contribute to overeating/obesity. We hypothesize that this process consists of two components: (a) a sensory addiction to the taste, texture, and temperature of food, and (b) a motor addiction to the actions of eating (e.g., biting, chewing, crunching, sucking, swallowing). Previously, we reported a mobile health application (mHealth app) obesity intervention addressing the sensory addiction component, based on staged food withdrawal. We propose that the motor addiction component can be treated using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)-based strategies for body-focused repetitive behaviors (BRFB), e.g., nail biting, skin picking, and hair pulling.

Methods

The present study tested the effectiveness of CBT-based, BFRB therapies added to the staged withdrawal app. Thirty-five participants, ages 8–20, 51.4% females, mean zBMI 2.17, participated in a 4-month study using the app, followed by a 5-month extension without the app. Using staged withdrawal, participants withdrew from specific, self-identified, “problem” foods until cravings resolved; then from non-specific snacking; and lastly from excessive mealtime amounts. BFRB therapies utilized concurrently included: distractions, competing behaviors, triggers avoidance, relaxation methods, aversion techniques, and distress tolerance.

Results

Latent growth curve analysis determined that mean body weight and zBMI decreased significantly more than in a previous study that used only staged withdrawal (p < 0.01). In the 5-month follow-up, participants maintained overall weight loss.

Conclusions

This study provides further preliminary evidence for the acceptability of an addiction model treatment of obesity in youth, and that the addition of CBT-based, BFRB therapies increased the effectiveness of staged food withdrawal.

Level of evidence

Level IV, Evidence obtained from multiple time series analysis with the intervention.
Frailty and prediction of recurrent falls over 10 years in a community cohort of 75-year-old women
Authors: Bartosch Patrik S. , Kristensson Jimmie , McGuigan Fiona E. , Akesson Kristina E.
Published: January 2020

Background

Frailty captures the age-related declines in health leading to increased vulnerability, including falls which are commonplace in older women. The relationship between frailty and falls is complex, with one leading to the other in a vicious cycle.

Aims

This study addresses the gap in understanding how patterns of frailty and falls propensity interact, particularly in those who have not yet entered the falls-frailty cycle.

Methods

The Osteoporosis Risk Assessment cohort consists of 1044 community-dwelling women aged 75, with 10 years of follow-up. Investigations were performed and a frailty index constructed at baseline, 5 and 10 years. Falls were self-reported for each previous 12 months. Analysis was two-directional, firstly based on frailty status and second, based on falls status. Recurrent falls was the primary outcome.

Results

Baseline frailty was a significant predictor of recurrent falls after 5 and 10 years [(OR 2.55 (1.62–3.99); 3.04 (1.63–5.67)]. Among women who had no history of falls at age 75, frailty was a stronger predictor of falls at 5 years [OR 3.06 (1.59–5.89)] than among women who had previously fallen.

Discussion

Frailty is significantly associated with recurrent falls and most pronounced in those who are frail but have not yet fallen.

Conclusions

This suggests that frailty should be an integral part of falls-risk assessment to improve identification of those at risk of becoming fallers.
Rubella in Pregnancy
Authors: Singh Chanchal
Published: January 2020

Rubella, commonly known as ‘German Measles’ is a common childhood viral disease that may affect adults as well. More than half of the infections are either asymptomatic or present with mild flu like illness with a typical maculopapular rash. In contrast, primary rubella infection in pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, can have serious consequences, namely miscarriage, intrauterine fetal demise or congenital rubella syndrome (CRS). WHO recognizes CRS as the ‘leading vaccine preventable cause of birth defects’. Antenatal management primarily is based on testing for immunity in the first trimester and recognizing acute maternal infection. A correct interpretation of maternal serology using IgG avidity along with IgM and IgG is imperative to avoid false positive diagnoses. Diagnosis of fetal infection is by detection of Rubella virus specific RTPCR in amniotic fluid and is indicated if maternal seroconversion is seen in the periconceptional period and/or the first trimester or if there are ultrasound features suggestive of fetal infection. Since there is no treatment available to either prevent mother to child transmission or to treat fetal infection, the mainstay is prevention. India is amongst the 11 countries of WHO South East Asia Region who are committed to control of Rubella and CRS by 2020.
Fetal Left Brachiocephalic Vein (LBCV): Visualization and Its Measurements in Indian Population
Authors: Shah Nupur
Published: January 2020

Left brachiocephalic vein, also known as innominate vein runs in upper mediastinum posterior to the thymus and anterior to the transverse aortic arch and aortic branches. LBCV can be visualized on gray scale as well as color Doppler ultrasound at the level above the 3 vessel view. This is the first Indian study to demonstrate the significance of its routine visualization and its measurements on prenatal ultrasound. Isolated intrathymic LBCV is a normal variant and in isolation does not warrant an alteration in routine management of pregnancy. Absent LBCV or dilated LBCV are pathological and warrant a thorough anomalies scan and fetal echocardiography.
Über „Digital Natives“, die selbst aktiv werden und Lehrpersonen, die keine Angst vor Tablets haben. Eine Diskursanalyse zum Schreiben über das Lehren und Lernen mit digitalen Medien in praxisinstruktiven Zeitschriften für die Grundschule
Authors: Moldenhauer Anna , Buck Marc Fabian , Koinzer Thomas
Published: January 2020

In diesem Artikel werden die Ergebnisse einer praxeologischen Diskursanalyse zum Schreiben von Grundschullehrer*innen über das Lehren und Lernen mit digitalen Medien in den Fokus gerückt. Auf Basis einer Analyse von Beiträgen aus praxisinstruktiven Zeitschriften für die Grundschule wird in den Blick genommen, welche Begründungsfiguren sowie Subjektpositionen konstituiert werden. Es wird analysiert, wie sich die schreibenden Grundschullehrer*innen als Orientierung vermittelnde Subjekte und als Mitgestalter*innen einer technologisierten und in Teilen gamifizierten Unterrichtspraxis positionieren, in der die generalisierten Schüler*innensubjekte motiviert und selbsttätig lernen.