bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feature extraction and neural network-based multi-peak analysis on time-correlated LiDAR histograms
Authors: Chen Gongbo , Landmeyer Felix , Wiede Christian , Kokozinski Rainer
Published: January 2022

Time correlated single photon counting is a statistical method to generate time-correlated histograms (TC-Hists), which are based on the time-of-flight information measured by photon detectors such as single-photon avalanche diodes. With restricted measurements per histogram and the presence of high background light, it is challenging to obtain the target distance in a TC-Hist. In order to improve the data processing robustness under these conditions, the concept of machine learning is applied to the TC-Hist. Using the neural network-based multi-peak analysis (NNMPA), introduced by us, including a physics-guided feature extraction and a distance prediction process, the analysis is focused on a small number of critical features in the TC-Hist. Based on these features, possible target distances with correlated certainty values are inferred. Furthermore, two optimization approaches regarding learning ability and real-time performance are discussed. In particular, variants of the NNMPA are evaluated on both synthetic and real datasets. The proposed method not only has higher robustness in allocating the coarse position (

±

5
%

) of the target distance in harsh conditions, but also is faster than the classical digital processing with an average-filter and noise suppression. Thus, it can be applied to improve the system robustness, especially in the case of high background light and middle-range detections.
Generalized Kerker effect in PT-symmetric nanoantenna array
Authors: Tapar Jinal , Kishen Saurabh , Emani Naresh Kumar
Published: January 2022

All-dielectric nanophotonics is a rapidly developing and practical alternative to plasmonics for nanoscale optics. The electric and magnetic Mie resonances in high-index low-loss dielectric nanoresonators can be engineered to exhibit unique scattering responses. Recently, nanophotonic structures satisfying parity-time (PT) symmetry have been shown to exhibit novel scattering responses beyond what can be achieved from the conventional nanoresonators. The complex interference of the magnetic and electric Mie resonances and lattice modes excited in PT-symmetric nanoantenna arrays give rise to a scattering anomaly called lasing spectral singularity (SS), where the scattering coefficients tend to infinity. In our previous work (Tapar, Kishen and Emani 2020 Opt. Lett.
45 5185), we demonstrated the existence of lasing SSs in vertically stacked two-dimensional (2D) GaInP PT-symmetric metasurface. In this paper, we analyse the direction-sensitive scattering response of the PT-symmetric GaInP metasurface by decomposing the total scattered field into the electric and magnetic multipoles. The far-field scattering response at the singularity is highly asymmetric for incidence from either the gain or loss side and can be tuned by changing the geometry. By analysing the phase of even- and odd-parity higher-order multipoles, we explain the observed scattering response over a broad parameter space in terms of the generalized Kerker effect. The interference between the direction-dependent excitation of different order multipoles and the overall 2D-lattice resonance opens a route towards designing a special class of tunable sources exhibiting direction-sensitive emission properties.
Nil-potent vacuum in homodyne noise
Authors: Jetty Ninad R
Published: January 2022

In the absence of a signal field, vacuum entering through the empty beam splitter port is considered to be the sole contributor to the output noise of conventional two-port homodyne detection. We study a modified configuration that alters the input coefficient of vacuum, predicting an output noise less than that of the conventional configuration. Measurements, however, reveal identical output noise profiles for both the configurations. We explain the observations in terms of the incident field noise alone, and suggest that vacuum does not contribute to homodyne noise or shot-noise. We extend our results to the measurement of squeezed light, with non-ideal detectors.
Friction anisotropy of violet phosphorene and its surface structure direction identification
Authors: Zhang Bo , Zhang Lihui , Chen Chengxiang , Gu Mengyue , Cheng Yonghong , Zhang Jinying
Published: January 2022

Violet phosphorene, a recently determined semiconducting two-dimensional elemental structure, is a promising electronic and optoelectronic material. The nano-tribological properties of violet phosphorene nanoflakes are essential for their micro device applications. A friction anisotropy has been demonstrated for the violet phosphorene nanoflakes by lateral force microscope due to the sub-nanorod components of violet phosphorus. The frictional force of the violet phosphorene nanoflakes have been demonstrated to be valley along sub-nano rod direction and peak across the sub-nanorod direction with a period of 180°, resulting in a fast identification of the surface structure direction of violet phosphorene. The friction of violet phosphorene nanoflakes has also been shown to increase with increasing scanning pressure. However, it is not sensitive to scanning speed or layers. The friction of the violet phosphorene nanoflakes have also been demonstrated to increase when exposure to air for hours. The friction and adhesion features of violet phosphorene nanoflakes provide valuable foundation for violet phosphorene based devices.
Hot deformation behavior of 60NiTi shape-memory alloy fabricated by hot isostatic pressing
Authors: Li Mei-Ling , Gao Wen-Jin , Zhou Ying-Hao
Published: January 2022

The 60NiTi (Ni60wt%–Ti40wt%) intermetallic is a hard-to-process material. Understanding of hot deformation behavior is crucial for the hot working of 60NiTi. This work studied hot deformation behavior and corresponding microstructure of the hot isostatic pressed 60NiTi in the temperature range of 900 °C–1050 °C and at strain rates of 0.1, 0.01 and 0.001 s−1 through a hot compression test. The flow stress and microstructure were susceptible to the hot deformation parameters. The flow stress decreased with the increase in deformation temperature and decrease in strain rate. Work hardening occurred at a small strain, then followed by softening; finally, near-dynamic equilibrium was achieved between work hardening and softening. A constitutive equation was developed to describe the effects of strain rate and temperature on flow stress. Simulation of hot deformation via the finite element method revealed the workpiece’s inhomogeneous deformation. The deformation occurred mainly in the center area of the cylindrical sample, resulting in high stress and strain concentrations in this region and causing the equiaxial grains to be compressed into prolate grains. This work can provide guidance for the hot working, such as forging and hot rolling, of 60NiTi.
Effect of Gd and Ti co-doping on electrical performance of Bi2O3 oxygen ion conductor
Authors: Yang Qiang , Luo Zeyang , Zhu Pei , Wei Yunhe , Wang Huan , Yan Duanting , Wang Dejun , Liu Runru
Published: January 2022

In this study, a new oxygen ion conductor electrolyte material with high conductivity was reported. Bi2O3 was co-doped with Gd2O3 and TiO2 by solid-phase synthesis method to obtain Bi1–3xGd2xTixO1.5+δ
and Bi0.76Gd0.18−xTixO1.5+δ
(TGSB) ceramics. The phase composition, surface morphology and electrical properties of TGSB samples were characterized by x-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and AC impedance respectively. XRD results show that only 6T12GSB has a single cubic fluorite structure, and impurity phases appear in other samples. The SEM results show that only when the doping concentrations of Gd and Ti are 12 mol% and 6 mol% respectively, the particle size is relatively smaller and there are no obvious pores. From the analysis of electrical properties, Gd dopant is helpful to the stability of the Bi2O3 phase than Ti dopant, but not beneficial to higher conductivity. When the doping concentration of Gd is higher than 16 mol%, it becomes more stable. The conductivity of the 6T12GSB sample is relatively high. The conductivity of the TGSB samples is higher than that of the TLSB samples under the lower temperature condition (<450 °C), and the electrical performance of Bi2O3-based materials are enhanced especially at low temperature.
The structure and mechanical properties of Cr-based Cr-Ti alloy films
Authors: Liu Gang , Wang Miao , Xu Jianjun , Huang Min , Wang Chen , Fu Yabo , Lin Changhong , Wu Jianbo , Levchenko Vladimir A
Published: January 2022

Previous studies have dealt with Cr and its alloy films that exhibit promising characteristics as surface modification layers for antiwear, anticorrosive, and decorative applications. However, the effect of Ti alloying on the structure and mechanical properties of Cr films has not been studied. This work aimed to the structure and mechanical properties of Cr-Ti alloy films in the Cr-rich side. To this end, pure Cr, Cr-6 at.% Ti, Cr-11 at.% Ti, Cr-16 at.% Ti, and Cr-21 at.% Ti alloy films were prepared by magnetron sputtering, and the structure and mechanical properties of the films were evaluated. The results indicated that all the films exhibited a Cr-based growth with body-centered cubic structure, and increasing the Ti content decreased the (110) orientation growth of Cr basis. Ti alloying increased the hardness of the films, while leaded to a monotonic decrease in the modulus of the films. The first-principles method was employed to demonstrate that the reduced modulus was determined by the Ti alloying degree, rather than the orientation evolution of the films. The analysis of H/E value suggested that the wear resistance of the films was improved by Ti alloying. The mechanical properties of present Cr-Ti alloy films, and other Cr-based alloy films or metallic glasses in publications were compared and discussed. We proposed that Ti alloying is a considerable way to explore advanced mechanical properties of Cr-based alloy films.
3D printing of functional polymers for miniature machines
Authors: Xia Neng , Jin Dongdong , Iacovacci Veronica , Zhang Li
Published: January 2022

Miniature robots and actuators with micrometer or millimeter scale size can be driven by diverse power sources, e.g. chemical fuels, light, magnetic, and acoustic fields. These machines have the potential to access complex narrow spaces, execute medical tasks, perform environmental monitoring, and manipulate micro-objects. Recent advancements in 3D printing techniques have demonstrated great benefits in manufacturing small-scale structures such as customized design with programmable physical properties. Combining 3D printing methods, functional polymers, and active control strategies enables these miniature machines with diverse functionalities to broaden their potentials in medical applications. Herein, this review provides an overview of 3D printing techniques applicable for the fabrication of small-scale machines and printable functional materials, including shape-morphing materials, biomaterials, composite polymers, and self-healing polymers. Functions and applications of tiny robots and actuators fabricated by 3D printing and future perspectives toward small-scale intelligent machines are discussed.
Molecular and morphological analyses clarify species delimitation in section Costatae and reveal Betula buggsii sp. nov. (sect. Costatae, Betulaceae) in China
Authors: Wang Luwei , Ding Junyi , Borrell James S , Cheek Martin , McAllister Hugh A , Wang Feifei , Liu Lu , Zhang Huayu , Zhang Qiufeng , Wang Yiming , Wang Nian
Published: January 2022

Background and Aims

Delineating closely related and morphologically similar species is difficult. Here, we integrate morphology, genetics, ploidy and geography to resolve species and subspecies boundaries in four trees of section Costatae (genus Betula): Betula ashburneri, B. costata, B. ermanii and B. utilis, as well as multiple subspecies and polyploid races.

Methods

We genotyped 371 individuals (20–133 per species) from 51 populations at 15 microsatellite markers, as well as a subset of individuals, using restriction-site associated DNA sequencing and nuclear internal transcribed spacers. We determined the ploidy level of eight individuals using flow cytometry and characterized leaf variation for a subset of 109 individuals by morphometric analysis.

Key Results

Integration of multiple lines of evidence suggested a series of revisions to the taxonomy of section Costatae. Betula costata and B. ermanii were found to be valid. Molecular and leaf morphology analyses revealed little differentiation between diploid B. albosinensis and some samples of B. utilis ssp. utilis. By contrast, other B. utilis ssp. utilis samples and ssp. albosinensis formed a morphological continuum but differed based on genetics. Specifically, B. utilis ssp. albosinensis was divided into two groups with group I genetically similar to B. utilis ssp. utilis and group II, a distinct cluster, proposed as the new diploid species Betula buggsii sp. nov. Phylogenomic analysis based on 2285 620 single nucleotide polymorphisms identified a well-supported monophyletic clade of B. buggsii. Morphologically, B. buggsii is characterized by elongated lenticels and a distinct pattern of bark peeling and may be geographically restricted to the Qinling–Daba Mountains.

Conclusions

Our integrated approach identifies six taxa within section Costatae: B. ashburneri, B. buggsii, B. costata, B. utilis ssp. utilis, B. utilis ssp. albosinensis and B. ermanii. Our research demonstrates the value of an integrative approach using morphological, geographical, genetic and ploidy-level data for species delineation.
The Diagnostic Accuracy of Chest Radiographic Features for Pediatric Intrathoracic Tuberculosis
Authors: Palmer Megan , Gunasekera Kenneth S , van der Zalm Marieke M , Morrison Julie , Simon Schaaf H , Goussard Pierre , Hesseling Anneke C , Walters Elisabetta , Seddon James A
Published: January 2022

Introduction

The chest radiograph (CR) remains a key tool in the diagnosis of pediatric tuberculosis (TB). In children with presumptive intrathoracic TB, we aimed to identify CR features that had high specificity for, and were strongly associated with, bacteriologically confirmed TB.

Methods

We analyzed CR data from children with presumptive intrathoracic TB prospectively enrolled in a cohort study in a high-TB burden setting and who were classified using standard clinical case definitions as “confirmed,” “unconfirmed,” or “unlikely” TB. We report the CR features and inter-reader agreement between expert readers who interpreted the CRs. We calculated the sensitivity and specificity of the CR features with at least moderate inter-reader agreement and analyzed the relationship between these CR  features and the classification of TB in a multivariable regression model.

Results

Of features with at least moderate inter-reader agreement, enlargement of perihilar and/or paratracheal lymph nodes, bronchial deviation/compression, cavities, expansile pneumonia, and pleural effusion had a specificity of > 90% for confirmed TB, compared with unlikely TB. Enlargement of perihilar (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 6.6; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.80–11.72) and/or paratracheal lymph nodes (aOR: 5.14; 95% CI, 2.25–12.58), bronchial deviation/compression (aOR: 6.22; 95% CI, 2.70–15.69), pleural effusion (aOR: 2.27; 95% CI, 1.04–4.78), and cavities (aOR: 7.45; 95% CI, 3.38–17.45) were associated with confirmed TB in the multivariate regression model, whereas alveolar opacification (aOR: 1.16; 95% CI, .76–1.77) and expansile pneumonia (aOR: 4.16; 95% CI, .93–22.34) were not.

Conclusions

In children investigated for intrathoracic TB enlargement of perihilar or paratracheal lymph nodes, bronchial compression/deviation, pleural effusion, or cavities on CR strongly support the diagnosis.
Remdesivir Plus Dexamethasone Versus Dexamethasone Alone for the Treatment of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Patients Requiring Supplemental O2 Therapy: A Prospective Controlled Nonrandomized Study
Authors: Marrone Aldo , Nevola Riccardo , Sellitto Ausilia , Cozzolino Domenico , Romano Ciro , Cuomo Giovanna , Aprea Concetta , Schwartzbaum Michelangelo X Palou , Ricozzi Carmen , Imbriani Simona , Rinaldi Luca , Gjeloshi Klodian , Padula Andrea , Ranieri Roberta , Ruosi Carolina , Meo Luciana Agnese , Abitabile Marianna , Cinone Francesca , Carusone Caterina , Adinolfi Luigi Elio
Published: January 2022

Background

Remdesivir is an antiviral used to treat coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which improves some clinical outcomes. Dexamethasone has been shown to be effective in reducing mortality. It has been hypothesized that combination of these two drugs can improve mortality. We evaluated the effect of combination on mortality of COVID-19 patients requiring O2 therapy.

Methods

A prospective quasi-experimental study, including two independent, sequential controlled cohorts, one received remdesivir-dexamethasone and the other dexamethasone alone, was designed. All COVID-19 patients requiring supplemental O2 therapy were enrolled consecutively. The sample size to power mortality was a priori calculated. The primary endpoints were 30-day mortality and viral clearance differences. Secondary endpoints were differences in hospitalization times, improvement in respiratory failure (PO2/FiO2) and inflammatory indices (fibrinogen, CRP, neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio, D-Dimer). Kaplan-Meier curves and the log-rank test were used to evaluate significant differences in mortality between groups.

Results

In total, 151 COVID-19 patients were enrolled (remdesivir/dexamethasone group, 76, and dexamethasone alone, 75). No differences in demographic, clinical, and laboratory characteristics were observed between the 2 groups at baseline. Faster viral clearance occurred in the remdesivir/dexamethasone group compared to dexamethasone alone (median 6 vs 16 days; P < .001). The 30-day mortality in the remdesivir/dexamethasone group was 1.3%, whereas in dexamethasone alone was 16% (P < .005). In the remdesivir/dexamethasone group compared to dexamethasone alone there was a reduction in hospitalization days (P < .0001) and a faster improvement in both respiratory function and inflammatory markers.

Conclusions

Remdesivir/dexamethasone treatment is associated with significant reduction in mortality, length of hospitalization, and faster SARS-CoV-2 clearance, compared to dexamethasone alone.
Case report of acute myocarditis after administration of coronavirus disease 2019 vaccine in Japan
Authors: Ohnishi Masato , Tanaka Yasunori , Nishida Sakiya , Sugimoto Toshiro
Published: January 2022

Background

The worldwide spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is still not under control and vaccination in Japan started in February 2021, albeit later than in Europe and the USA. The COVID-19 vaccination frequently leads to minor adverse reactions, which may be more intense after the second dose. The number of case reports of myocarditis following COVID-19 vaccination have been recently increased.

Case summary

We report a case of a 26-year-old healthy man who presented to our hospital with chest pain on 24 May 2021, 4 days after his second COVID-19 vaccination. The electrocardiogram showed ST elevation with upward concavity in I, II, aVL, aVF, V4 to V6, and small Q wave in II, III, aVF. Laboratory studies revealed elevation of troponin I, creatine kinase, C-reactive protein, and negative viral serologies. Acute aortic dissection and pulmonary thromboembolism were ruled out by contrast-enhanced thoracoabdominal computed tomography. An urgent coronary angiogram was performed because an acute coronary syndrome was suspected, but no significant stenosis was found. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated oedema and late gadolinium enhancement of the left ventricle in a mid-myocardial and epicardial distribution.

Discussion

Although the temporal association does not prove causation, the very short span between the second vaccination and the onset of myocarditis suggests that this acute myocarditis seemed to be an adverse reaction to COVID-19 vaccine. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first published case of acute myocarditis following COVID-19 vaccine in Asia.
Judging a declaration: Condorcet, rights and the general will in 1789
Authors: McCrudden Illert Kathleen
Published: January 2022

This article argues that a study of unpublished notes for a treatise on the Déclaration des droits, written by the marquis de Condorcet in 1789, offers an insight into a problem that has defined scholarship on the philosophe for decades: the tension between the competing ‘democratic’ and ‘elitist’ discourses in Condorcet’s political thought. In this manuscript we see a novel integration of the discourse of ‘general’ or ‘common’ will into Condorcet’s rights-thinking. Due to his fear that the debates in the National Assembly over the proposed Declaration of Rights during the summer of 1789 were undermining the ‘self-evident’ nature of Natural Rights and more specific rights that derived from them, the article suggests that Condorcet was here experimenting with the legitimating languages of ‘volonté générale’ and ‘sens commun’. Although these notes remained unpublished, hints of Condorcet’s shift in thinking can nevertheless be seen in his published work of the same period.
Potential of Stem Cell-Based Therapy to Restore Function in Aging Systems: Are We There Yet?
Authors: Hare Joshua M , Beerman Isabel
Published: January 2022

While there is extensive interest in geroscience approaches to health and disease, few basic science discoveries have made their way into clinical trials. Herein, we comment on cell-based therapies, in which supplementing robust stem cell capacity to aged systems theoretically could lead to sustained improvement. This exciting approach has undergone translational development, and we highlight studies targeting a single system and others aimed at treating overall aging frailty by restoring the aged stem cell niches that underly diminished endogenous regenerative capacity.
Use of Critical Race Theory to Inform the Recruitment of Black/African American Alzheimer’s Disease Caregivers into Community-Based Research
Authors: Parker Lauren J , Gaugler Joseph E , Gitlin Laura N
Published: January 2022

Nearly 30 years after the 1993 National Institute of Health (NIH) Revitalization Act, which required the inclusion of women and racial/ethnic minority groups into government-funded clinical trials, minority groups remain underrepresented in research, and disparities in health outcomes and longevity remain. These problematic trends are particularly evident when considering Black and community-based research in Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia (ADRD). Deeply rooted historical race-based mistreatment in research and in the health care system at large along with ineffective recruitment approaches persists as barriers to the low participation of Black participants in dementia care studies. In this article, we explore Critical Race Theory, its tenets, and applicability to inform national strategies to encourage participation of Black participants in ADRD research. We describe how Critical Race Theory constructs (e.g., race consciousness, storytelling, and praxis) can be used to inform recruitment strategies of Black caregivers for people living with dementia into community-based research. We provide a case example that draws upon our NIH-funded Adult Day Service Plus randomized trial and its engagement of Black caregivers into a community-based biomarker research arm of the main trial. Although the contribution of this article is primarily theoretical, in the spirit of Critical Race Theory it is also a call for action to transform dementia care research by offering a conceptual tool to assure inclusivity of Black participants, who are disproportionately affected by dementia when compared to other racial groups.
Source properties of the 2019ML6.3 Hualien, Taiwan, earthquake, determined by the local strong motion networks
Authors: Lin Yen-Yu , Wen Yi-Ying , Yen Yin-Tung
Published: January 2022

The 2019 ML 6.3 Hualien earthquake struck the northern Longitudinal Valley (LV) and generated not only large strong motions (intensity of 7, as defined by the Central Weather Bureau, Taiwan) locally but also widespread strong shaking in metropolises in northern Taiwan. In this study, we analyse strong motion records from local seismic networks to understand the source properties of the 2019 event. We first obtain the centroid location of the 2019 event using the source-scanning algorithm (SSA) technique by applying the unfiltered records. The determined centroid location is 121.55°E, 24.10°N, with a depth of 22.5 km. This location is 5.5 km north–northwest of and 3.8 km deeper than the Central Weather Bureau hypocentre, suggesting that the 2019 event occurred on the high-angle west-dipping plane of the focal solution. The centroid time delay is 3.35 s. Then, we obtain strong motion generation areas (SMGAs) of the 2019 event using the empirical Green's function method by considering the broad-band waveforms (0.4–10 Hz). Unlike other moderate-sized earthquakes in Taiwan, which have one SMGA, we determine that there were two SMGAs in the 2019 event. SMGA1 initiated at the CWB hypocentre with a size of 4.00 km2, and SMGA2 initiated at the centroid location determined by the SSA approach with a size of 3.63 km2. Such small areas cause high stress drops of 13.7 and 27.4 MPa for SMGA1 and SMGA2, respectively. We infer that the localized high stress drop of SMGAs is one of the important factors responsible for high peak-ground accelerations (PGAs) in Taiwan in addition to a strong directivity effect coupled with the radiation pattern reported by the previous study. Furthermore, previous moderate-sized earthquakes on an active structure called the Xiulin segment revealed similar source properties with a high stress drop and generated large PGA locally as well as in the metropolises of northern Taiwan. Considering the stored moment deficit, the probability of a future large earthquake in the northern LV region remains high. It is essential to consider seismic hazard assessment and mitigation for this not-well-known but high-seismic-potential region.
British Politics
Authors: John Peter
Published: January 2022

British Politics provides an introduction to British politics with an emphasis on political science to analyse the fundamental features of British politics, and the key changes post-Brexit. Part A looks at constitutional and institutional foundations of the subject. Chapters in this part look at leadership and debating politics and law creation. The second part is about political behaviour and citizenship. Here chapters consider elections, the media, agenda setting, and political turbulence. The final part is about policy-making and delegation. The chapters in this part examine interest groups, advocacy, policy-making, governing through bureaucracy and from below, delegating upwards, and British democracy now.
4. The Council of the European Union:
Authors: Puetter Uwe
Published: January 2022

The Council is an institution of day-to-day policymaking in which the interests of member state governments are represented by cabinet ministers who meet, according to their policy portfolio, in different Council configurations and within the Eurogroup. According to the Treaty of Lisbon, the Council has a dual mandate. It acts as a legislative organ as well as an executive and policy-coordinating institution. This dual role is reflected in the organization and meeting practices of the different Council configurations. Those groupings of ministers dealing primarily with executive decisions and policy coordination tend to meet more often and are regarded as being more senior than those formations of the Council which engage predominantly in legislative decision-making. As a legislative institution, the Council has increasingly acquired features of an upper chamber in a bicameral separation of powers system, working in tandem with the European Parliament. In contrast, Council decision-making relating to executive issues and policy coordination in important policy domains, such as economic governance and foreign policy, is closely aligned with the European Council. In these areas, the Council can be considered to constitute, together with the Commission, a collective EU executive.
Benchmarking anthropomorphic hands through grasping simulations
Authors: Llop-Harillo Immaculada , Iserte José L , Pérez-González Antonio
Published: January 2022

In recent decades, the design of anthropomorphic hands has been developed greatly improving both cosmesis and functionality. Experimentation, simulation, and combined approaches have been used in the literature to assess the effect of design alternatives (DAs) on the final performance of artificial hands. However, establishing standard benchmarks for grasping and manipulation is a need recognized among the robotics community. Experimental approaches are costly, time consuming, and inconvenient in early design stages. Alternatively, computer simulation with the adaptation of metrics based on experimental benchmarks for anthropomorphic hands could be useful to evaluate and rank DAs. The aim of this study is to compare the anthropomorphism of the grasps performed with 28 DAs of the IMMA hand, developed by the authors, using either (i) the brute-force approach and grasp quality metrics proposed in previous works or (ii) a new simulation benchmark approach. The new methodology involves the generation of efficient grasp hypotheses and the definition of a new metric to assess stability and human likeness for the most frequently used grasp types in activities of daily living, pulp pinch and cylindrical grip, adapting the experimental Anthropomorphic Hand Assessment Protocol to the simulation environment. This new simulation benchmark, in contrast to the other approach, resulted in anthropomorphic and more realistic grasps for the expected use of the objects. Despite the inherent limitations of a simulation analysis, the benchmark proposed provides interesting results for selecting optimal DAs in order to perform stable and anthropomorphic grasps.
Apelles’ Aphrodite Anadyomene: the itinerary of a sacred gift
Authors: Cirucci Gabriella
Published: January 2022

Recent scholarly efforts to identify the antecedents of modern concepts, practices and institutions of cultural heritage in Greco-Roman antiquity appropriately meet the research need to place ancient collecting in dialogue with the current discourse of museum and heritage studies. Our knowledge of Greek and Roman ways of dealing with the artefacts kept in sacred spaces, however, invites us to be cautious when approaching ancient sanctuaries as predecessors of modern institutions such as public art galleries and museums. Through the specific case of the ‘Aphrodite Anadyomene’ painted by Apelles, this paper proposes some reflections on several aspects of collecting in ancient sacred spaces that remain controversial: the impact of celebrated masterpieces of art on Greek and Roman sanctuaries; ancient art tourism; Greco-Roman views on cultural property and its displacement; and ancient attitudes to conservation.
The Procedural Right to a Remedy When the State has Left the Building? A Reflection on Armed Groups, Courts and Domestic Law
Authors: Fortin Katharine
Published: January 2022

This article analyses the procedural right to a remedy under human rights law when applied to armed groups controlling territory and exercising governance. Using the Al Hassan case before the International Criminal Court as a reference point and drawing on literature on rebel governance from other disciplines, the article conducts a critical review of the application of the right to a remedy to armed groups. Finding that the right to a procedural remedy applied to armed groups can be useful and realistic, the articles evaluates how the main tools of the right to a remedy (1) domestic law and (2) domestic courts, can and should be treated, when dealing with territory controlled by armed groups. Adopting a high-altitude perspective that identifies and discusses the dynamics within the discourse that resist recognition of armed groups’ law and courts under human rights law, the article highlights key tensions within the system of international law and reflects on what the legal framework, taken as a system, can expect and require from armed groups.
Impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic on first-visit patients with oesophageal cancer in the first infection wave in Saitama prefecture near Tokyo: a single-centre retrospective study
Authors: Miyawaki Yutaka , Sato Hiroshi , Lee Seigi , Fujita Shohei , Oya Shuichiro , Sugita Hirofumi , Hirano Yasumitsu , Okamoto Kojun , Koyama Isamu , Sakuramoto Shinichi
Published: January 2022

Background

Although the novel coronavirus disease 2019 did not lead to a serious medical collapse in Japan, its impact on treatment of oesophageal cancer has rarely been investigated. This study aimed to investigate the influence of the pandemic on consultation status and initial treatment in patients with primary oesophageal cancer.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted among 546 patients with oesophageal cancer who visited our hospital from April 2018 to March 2021. Pre-pandemic and pandemic data were compared with the clinical features, oncological factors and initial treatment as outcome measures.

Results

Diagnoses of oesophageal cancer decreased during the early phase of the pandemic from April to June (P = 0.048); however, there was no significant difference between the pre-pandemic and pandemic periods throughout the year. The proportion of patients diagnosed with distant metastases significantly increased during the pandemic (P = 0.026), while the proportion of those who underwent initial radical treatment decreased (P = 0.044). The rate of definitive chemoradiotherapy decreased by 58.6% relative to pre-pandemic levels (P = 0.001).

Conclusions

Patients may have refrained from consultation during the early phase of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. The resultant delay in diagnosis may have led to an increase in the number of patients who were not indicated for radical treatment, as well as a decrease in the number of those who underwent definitive chemoradiotherapy. Our findings highlight the need to maintain the health care system and raise awareness on the importance of consultation.
Impact of Civilian Patient Care on Major Amputation Case Volume in the Military Health System
Authors: Rask Dawn M G , Tansey Kimberly A , Osborn Patrick M
Published: January 2022

Background

Sustaining critical wartime skills (CWS) during interwar periods is a recurrent and ongoing challenge for military surgeons. Amputation surgery for major extremity trauma is exceptionally common in wartime, so maintenance of surgical skills is necessary. This study was designed to examine the volume and distribution of amputation surgery performed in the military health system (MHS).

Study Design

All major amputations performed in military treatment facilities (MTF) for calendar years 2017–2019 were identified by current procedural terminology (CPT) codes. The date of surgery, operating surgeon National Provider Identifier, CPT code(s), amputation etiology (traumatic versus nontraumatic), and beneficiary status (military or civilian) were recorded for each surgical case.

Results

One thousand one hundred and eighty-four major amputations at 16 of the 49 military’s inpatient facilities were identified, with two MTFs accounting for 46% (548/1,184) of the total. Six MTFs performed 120 major amputations for the treatment of acute traumatic injuries. Seventy-three percent (87/120) of traumatic amputations were performed at MTF1, with the majority of patients (86%; 75/87) being civilians emergently transported there after injury. Orthopedic and vascular surgeons performed 78% of major amputations, but only 9.7% (152/1,570) of all military surgeons performed any major amputation, with only 3% (52) involved in amputations for trauma. Nearly all (87%; 26/30) of the orthopedic surgeons at MTF1 performed major amputations, including those for trauma.

Conclusion

This study highlights the importance of civilian patient care to increase major amputation surgical case volume and complexity to sustain critical wartime skills. The preservation and strategic expansion of effective military–civilian partnerships is essential for sustaining the knowledge and skills for optimal combat casualty care.
Optical turbulence in the atmospheric surface layer at the Ali Observatory, Tibet
Authors: Qian Xuan , Yao Yongqiang , Zou Lei , Wang Hongshuai , Li Jiawei
Published: January 2022

In this paper, we make use of the ultrasonic anemometers placed on a 30-m high tower at the Ali Observatory, and we obtain a preliminary set of data covering 2017 April 29 to August 18. We sample quantities at heights of 6, 12 and 18 m above the ground. This is the first analysis from the site-testing campaign to report the detailed optical turbulence in the atmospheric surface layer (ASL) at Ali. The behaviour of optical turbulence parameters (Cn2 and seeing ε) in the ASL have been investigated. The Cn2 decreases with height exponentially, with the power series mainly between 10−15 and 10−13 throughout the day, and, especially, as low as 10−17 at night. Meanwhile, the h−1.1 dependency of Cn2 varying with height in the ASL is obtained, and this is especially close to h−1.3 after midday, which is similar to the h−4/3 dependency and the dependency of h−1.27 above Dome C. We also present statistics of the contribution of the ASL to the total seeing in the whole atmosphere at Ali: the median seeing above 6 m is about 0.86 arcsec; at night, the seeing values are almost below 1.0 arcsec; the seeing below 1.2 arcsec takes an account of nearly 98 per cent of the time. On the whole, the initial calculated and observed results, with the high altitude and unique longitudinal location, show that the Ali Observatory could prove to be a promising site for large optical telescopes.
The evolution of brightest cluster galaxies in the nearby Universe II: The star-formation activity and the stellar mass from spectral energy distribution
Authors: Orellana-González G , Cerulo P , Covone G , Cheng C , Leiton R , Demarco R , Gendron-Marsolais M-L
Published: January 2022

We study the star-formation activity in a sample of ∼ 56 000 brightest cluster galaxies (BCGs) at 0.05 < z < 0.42 using optical and infra-red data from SDSS and WISE. We estimate stellar masses and star-formation rates (SFR) through SED fitting and study the evolution of the SFR with redshift as well as the effects of BCG stellar mass, cluster halo mass, and cooling time on star formation. Our BCGs have SFR = 1.4 × 10−3 − 275.2 [$\rm M_{\odot }$ yr−1] and sSFR = 5 × 10−15 − 6 × 10−10 [yr−1]. We find that star-forming BCGs are more abundant at higher redshifts and have higher SFR than at lower redshifts. The fraction of star-forming BCGs (fSF) varies from 30 per cent to 80 per cent at 0.05 < z < 0.42. Despite the large values of fSF, we show that only 13 per cent of the BCGs lie on the star-forming main sequence for field galaxies at the same redshifts. We also find that fSF depends only weakly on $M_{\rm 200}$, while it sharply decreases with $M_{*}$. We finally find that the SFR in BCGs decreases with increasing $t_{\rm cool}$, suggesting that star formation is related to the cooling of the intracluster medium. However, we also find a weak correlation of $M_{*}$ and $M_{\rm 200}$ with $t_{\rm cool}$ suggesting that AGNs are heating the intracluster gas around the BCGs. We compare our estimates of SFR with the predictions from empirical models for the evolution of the SFR with redshift, finding that the transition from a merger dominated to a cooling-dominated star formation may happen at z < 0.6.
Avacopan, a selective C5a receptor antagonist, for anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis
Authors: Harigai Masayoshi , Takada Hideto
Published: January 2022

Avacopan, an orally administered C5a receptor antagonist, has been approved for the treatment of microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) and granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) in Japan and the USA. In ADVOCATE Phase III clinical trial, patients with active MPA or GPA received either 30 mg avacopan twice daily or prednisone on a tapering schedule in combination with rituximab or cyclophosphamide (followed by azathioprine). The trial met its two primary endpoints: avacopan showed non-inferiority to prednisone for achieving remission at Week 26 (avacopan, 72.3%; prednisone, 70.1%; p < .001 for non-inferiority and p = .24 for superiority) and superiority for maintaining remission at Week 52 (65.7% for avacopan, 54.9% prednisone, p < .001 for non-inferiority and p = .007 for superiority). Of several key secondary endpoints tested, the glucocorticoid toxicity index (GTI)-cumulative worsening score and GTI-aggregate improvement score were significantly lower in the avacopan group than in the prednisone group at both Weeks 26 and 52. Serious adverse events related and unrelated to the worsening vasculitis were reported at 10.2% and 37.3% in the avacopan group and at 14.0% and 39.0% in the prednisone group, respectively. Avacopan has set the stage for the semi-glucocorticoid-free or glucocorticoid-free treatment of MPA and GPA.
Rapid factor depletion highlights intricacies of nucleoplasmic RNA degradation
Authors: Gockert Maria , Schmid Manfred , Jakobsen Lis , Jens Marvin , Andersen Jens S , Jensen Torben Heick
Published: January 2022

Turnover of nucleoplasmic transcripts by the mammalian multi-subunit RNA exosome is mediated by two adaptors: the Nuclear EXosome Targeting (NEXT) complex and the Poly(A) tail eXosome Targeting (PAXT) connection. Functional analyses of NEXT and PAXT have largely utilized long-term factor depletion strategies, facilitating the appearance of indirect phenotypes. Here, we rapidly deplete NEXT, PAXT and core exosome components, uncovering the direct consequences of their acute losses. Generally, proteome changes are sparse and largely dominated by co-depletion of other exosome and adaptor subunits, reflecting possible subcomplex compositions. While parallel high-resolution 3′ end sequencing of newly synthesized RNA confirms previously established factor specificities, it concomitantly demonstrates an inflation of long-term depletion datasets by secondary effects. Most strikingly, a general intron degradation phenotype, observed in long-term NEXT depletion samples, is undetectable upon short-term depletion, which instead emphasizes NEXT targeting of snoRNA-hosting introns. Further analysis of these introns uncovers an unusual mode of core exosome-independent RNA decay. Our study highlights the accumulation of RNAs as an indirect result of long-term decay factor depletion, which we speculate is, at least partly, due to the exhaustion of alternative RNA decay pathways.
The consequences of differential origin licensing dynamics in distinct chromatin environments
Authors: Mei Liu , Kedziora Katarzyna M , Song Eun-Ah , Purvis Jeremy E , Cook Jeanette Gowen
Published: January 2022

Eukaryotic chromosomes contain regions of varying accessibility, yet DNA replication factors must access all regions. The first replication step is loading MCM complexes to license replication origins during the G1 cell cycle phase. It is not yet known how mammalian MCM complexes are adequately distributed to both accessible euchromatin regions and less accessible heterochromatin regions. To address this question, we combined time-lapse live-cell imaging with immunofluorescence imaging of single human cells to quantify the relative rates of MCM loading in euchromatin and heterochromatin throughout G1. We report here that MCM loading in euchromatin is faster than that in heterochromatin in early G1, but surprisingly, heterochromatin loading accelerates relative to euchromatin loading in middle and late G1. This differential acceleration allows both chromatin types to begin S phase with similar concentrations of loaded MCM. The different loading dynamics require ORCA-dependent differences in origin recognition complex distribution. A consequence of heterochromatin licensing dynamics is that cells experiencing a truncated G1 phase from premature cyclin E expression enter S phase with underlicensed heterochromatin, and DNA damage accumulates preferentially in heterochromatin in the subsequent S/G2 phase. Thus, G1 length is critical for sufficient MCM loading, particularly in heterochromatin, to ensure complete genome duplication and to maintain genome stability.
Morphine Exposure Reduces Nicotine-Induced Upregulation of Nicotinic Receptors and Decreases Volitional Nicotine Intake in a Mouse Model
Authors: Avelar Alicia J , Cooper Skylar Y , Wright Thomas Douglas , Wright Sheavonnie K , Richardson Montana R , Henderson Brandon J
Published: January 2022

Introduction

Nicotine addiction remains a primary health concern as tobacco smoking remains the number one cause of preventable death in America. At the same time, America is still facing the threat of the opioid epidemic. While the prevalence of smoking combustible cigarettes or electronic nicotine delivery systems in the United States varies between 12% and 35%, the smoking rates among the opioid use dependent (OUD) population is 74%–97%. We examined changes in brain reward mechanisms in which co-use of nicotine and opioids may result in enhanced reward and reinforcement.

Aims and Methods

Adult male and female α4-mCherryα6-GFP mice (C57BL/6J) were used in conditioned place preference (CPP) and microscopy assays to examine reward-related behavior and nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) upregulation following treatments with saline, nicotine, morphine, or nicotine plus morphine. Following this, separate mice were trained in e-Vape self-administration assays to examine morphine’s impact on nicotine reinforcement.

Results

We observed that nicotine and morphine coexposure in a CPP assay did not produce enhanced reward-related behavior when compared with nicotine or morphine alone. In parallel we observed coexposure reduced nicotine-induced upregulation of nAChRs on ventral tegmental area dopamine and GABA neurons. Additionally, we observed that concurrent morphine exposure reduced nicotine (plus menthol) vapor self-administration in male and female mice.

Conclusions

While nicotine use is high among OUD individuals, our CPP assays suggest coexposure not only fails to enhance reward-related behavior but also reduces nicotine-induced changes in ventral tegmental area neurobiology. Our self-administration assays suggest that morphine exposure during nicotine acquisition reduces nicotine reinforcement-related behavior.

Implications

While some may postulate that the co-use of opioids and nicotine may be driven by reward-related mechanisms, our data indicate that opioid exposure may hinder nicotine intake due to reduced upregulation of nAChRs critical for nicotine reward and reinforcement. Thus, the high co-use in OUD individuals may be a result of other mechanisms and this warrants further investigations into nicotine and opioid co-use.