bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Emerging MXenes for Functional Memories
Authors: Gong Yue , Xing Xuechao , Wang Yan , Lv Ziyu , Zhou Ye , Han Su-Ting
Published: March 2021

MXenes are a rapidly growing family of 2D materials. The composition, morphology, structure, surface chemistry, and structural configuration of MXenes directly affect their electrochemical performance. For example, when used as the source and drain electrodes in a transistor, MXenes provide increased chemically active interfaces, reduced ion diffusion length, and improved inplane carrier/charge transport kinetics, thus improving the storage performance of the transistor significantly. The work function and bandgap of MXenes can be controlled by tailoring their structure and surface functional groups. This makes MXenes as the first choice for several storage applications. Herein, the latest progress in the synthesis and properties of MXenes is summarized, and it is aimed to boost the motivation of researchers for developing novel MXenes and improving their applications. It emphasizes on the importance of MXenes in high‐density data storage applications, such as flash memories and memristors. The applications of MXenes in artificial synapses, neurons, and logic circuits are also discussed. A future roadmap is outlined for realizing the storage applications of MXenes.
The bane of lockdown loneliness
Authors: Kirby Roger
Published: March 2021

In this editorial, Professor Roger Kirby, Editor‐in‐Chief for Trends in Urology and Men's Health, reflects on the health consequences of loneliness that have been exacerbated as a result of the COVID‐19 pandemic.
Fluid–structure interaction simulations of a wind turbine rotor in complex flows, validated through field experiments
Authors: Grinderslev Christian , González Horcas Sergio , Sørensen Niels Nørmark
Published: March 2021

Aeroelastic simulations of a 2.3 MW wind turbine rotor operating in different complex atmospheric flows are conducted using high fidelity fluid–structure interaction (FSI) simulations. Simpler blade element momentum (BEM) theory based simulations are likewise conducted for comparison, and measurements from field experiments are used for validation of the simulations. Good agreement is seen between simulated and measured forces. It is found that for complex flows, BEM‐based simulations predict similar forces as computational fluid dynamics (CFD)‐based FSI, however with some distinct discrepancies. Firstly, stall is predicted for a large part of the blade using BEM‐based aerodynamics, which are not seen in either FSI simulations or measurements in the case of a high shear. This leads to a more dynamic structural response for BEM‐based simulations than for FSI. For a highly yawed and sheared flow case, the BEM‐based simulations overpredict outboard forces for a significant part of the rotation. This emphasizes the need of validation of BEM‐based simulations through higher fidelity methods, when considering complex flows. Including flexibility in simulations shows only little impact on the considered rotor for both FSI‐ and BEM‐based simulations. In general, the loading of the blades increases slightly, and the rotor wake is almost identical for stiff and flexible FSI simulations.
Evolutionary conservation of RNA sequence and structure
Authors: Rivas Elena
Published: March 2021

An RNA structure prediction from a single‐sequence RNA folding program is not evidence for an RNA whose structure is important for function. Random sequences have plausible and complex predicted structures not easily distinguishable from those of structural RNAs. How to tell when an RNA has a conserved structure is a question that requires looking at the evolutionary signature left by the conserved RNA. This question is important not just for long noncoding RNAs which usually lack an identified function, but also for RNA binding protein motifs which can be single stranded RNAs or structures. Here we review recent advances using sequence and structural analysis to determine when RNA structure is conserved or not. Although covariation measures assess structural RNA conservation, one must distinguish covariation due to RNA structure from covariation due to independent phylogenetic substitutions. We review a statistical test to measure false positives expected under the null hypothesis of phylogenetic covariation alone (specificity). We also review a complementary test that measures power, that is, expected covariation derived from sequence variation alone (sensitivity). Power in the absence of covariation signals the absence of a conserved RNA structure. We analyze artifacts that falsely identify conserved RNA structure such as the misuse of programs that do not assess significance, the use of inappropriate statistics confounded by signals other than covariation, or misalignments that induce spurious covariation. Among artifacts that obscure the signal of a conserved RNA structure, we discuss the inclusion of pseudogenes in alignments which increase power but destroy covariation.

This article is categorized under:

RNA Structure and Dynamics > RNA Structure, Dynamics and Chemistry

RNA Evolution and Genomics > Computational Analyses of RNA

RNA Evolution and Genomics > RNA and Ribonucleoprotein Evolution
Single‐cell RNA sequencing: A new opportunity for retinal research
Authors: You Mengling , Rong Rong , Zeng Zhou , Li Haibo , Xia Xiaobo , Ji Dan
Published: March 2021

Single‐cell RNA sequencing (scRNA‐seq) is a technology for single‐cell transcriptome analysis that can be used to characterize complex dynamics of various retinal cell types. It provides deep scrutiny into the gene expression character of diverse cell types, lending insight into all the biological processes being carried out. The scRNA‐seq is an alternative to regular RNA‐seq, which does not achieve cellular heterogeneity. The retina, is a part of the central nervous system (CNS) and consists of six types of neurons and several types of glial cells. Studying retinal cell heterogeneity is important for understanding retinal diseases. Currently, scRNA‐seq is employed to assess retina development and retinal disease pathogenesis and has improved our understanding of the relationship between the retina, its visual pathways, and the brain. Moreover, this technology provides new ideas on the sensitivity and molecular mechanisms of cell subtypes involved in retinal‐related diseases. The application of scRNA‐seq technology has given us a deeper understanding of the latest advancements and challenges in retinal development and diseases. We advocate scRNA‐seq as one of the important tools for developing novel therapies for retinal diseases.

This article is categorized under:

RNA Methods > RNA Analyses in Cells

RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Development

RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Disease
Modular Hamiltonians for the massless Dirac field in the presence of a boundary
Authors: Mintchev Mihail , Tonni Erik
Published: March 2021

Abstract

We study the modular Hamiltonians of an interval for the massless Dirac fermion on the half-line. The most general boundary conditions ensuring the global energy conservation lead to consider two phases, where either the vector or the axial symmetry is preserved. In these two phases we derive the corresponding modular Hamiltonian in explicit form. Its density involves a bi-local term localised in two points of the interval, one conjugate to the other. The associated modular flows are also established. Depending on the phase, they mix fields with different chirality or charge that follow different modular trajectories. Accordingly, the modular flow preserves either the vector or the axial symmetry. We compute the two-point correlation functions along the modular flow and show that they satisfy the Kubo-Martin-Schwinger condition in both phases. The entanglement entropies are also derived.
Genus expansion of open free energy in 2d topological gravity
Authors: Okuyama Kazumi , Sakai Kazuhiro
Published: March 2021

Abstract

We study open topological gravity in two dimensions, or, the intersection theory on the moduli space of open Riemann surfaces initiated by Pandharipande, Solomon and Tessler. The open free energy, the generating function for the open intersection numbers, obeys the open KdV equations and Buryak’s differential equation and is related by a formal Fourier transformation to the Baker-Akhiezer wave function of the KdV hierarchy. Using these properties we study the genus expansion of the free energy in detail. We construct explicitly the genus zero part of the free energy. We then formulate a method of computing higher genus corrections by solving Buryak’s equation and obtain them up to high order. This method is much more efficient than our previous approach based on the saddle point calculation. Along the way we show that the higher genus corrections are polynomials in variables that are expressed in terms of genus zero quantities only, generalizing the constitutive relation of closed topological gravity.
Vacuum structure of the ℤ2 symmetric Georgi-Machacek model
Authors: Azevedo Duarte , Ferreira Pedro , Logan Heather E. , Santos Rui
Published: March 2021

Abstract

We discuss the vacuum structure of a version of the Georgi-Machecek model with an exact ℤ2 symmetry acting on the triplet fields. Besides the usual custodial-symmetric model, with ρ = 1 at tree-level, a model with a dark matter candidate is also viable. The other phases of the model lead to electric charge breaking, a wrong pattern of electroweak symmetry breaking or to ρ ≠ 1 at tree-level. We derive conditions to have an absolute minimum in each of the two viable phases, the custodial and the dark matter phases.
On the ‘nature’ of the ‘artificial’
Authors: Negrotti Massimo
Published: March 2021

Since the work by Herbert Simon, no particular attention has been paid to the distinction between conventional technology and technology directed at the reproduction of natural instances. Nevertheless, if we had a general knowledge of the methodological aspects that any attempt to reproduce natural objects or processes unavoidably requires, then we would understand why, as a rule, no artificial device can ‘converge’ to its natural counterpart and why, on the contrary, the more it advances, the further away it goes from it. As a result, our efforts should be oriented to deeply investigate the artificial as it were a truly new ‘nature’ in itself.
Birth outcomes in hard times among minority ethnic groups
Authors: Bertoli Paola , Grembi Veronica , Nguyen The Linh Bao
Published: March 2021

Combining a unique dataset of birth records with municipal-level real estate information, we assess the impact of the 2008 recession on the health of immigrants’ newborns in Italy. Health at birth (e.g., low birth weight) of children born to immigrants deteriorated more than health at birth of children born to Italian natives. The negative effects on immigrants are not equally distributed across ethnicities, but rather are driven by the main economic activity of the ethnic group and its related network at the municipal level. Immigrants whose ethnic group is mainly employed in the sectors most affected during the recession suffered the most. Living in a municipality where their ethnic network is organized through more registered immigrant associations mitigates the recession hardship for immigrants. The characteristics of ethnic groups and their organization at the municipal level do not explain the heterogeneous effects on Italian newborns, which confirms the presence of network effects rather than neighborhood effects
Towards footwear manufacturing 4.0: shoe sole robotic grasping in assembling operations
Authors: Oliver Guillermo , Gil Pablo , Gomez Jose F. , Torres Fernando
Published: March 2021

In this paper, we present a robotic workcell for task automation in footwear manufacturing such as sole digitization, glue dispensing, and sole manipulation from different places within the factory plant. We aim to make progress towards shoe industry 4.0. To achieve it, we have implemented a novel sole grasping method, compatible with soles of different shapes, sizes, and materials, by exploiting the particular characteristics of these objects. Our proposal is able to work well with low density point clouds from a single RGBD camera and also with dense point clouds obtained from a laser scanner digitizer. The method computes antipodal grasping points from visual data in both cases and it does not require a previous recognition of sole. It relies on sole contour extraction using concave hulls and measuring the curvature on contour areas. Our method was tested both in a simulated environment and in real conditions of manufacturing at INESCOP facilities, processing 20 soles with different sizes and characteristics. Grasps were performed in two different configurations, obtaining an average score of 97.5% of successful real grasps for soles without heel made with materials of low or medium flexibility. In both cases, the grasping method was tested without carrying out tactile control throughout the task.
Delta9-THC determination by the EU official method: evaluation of measurement uncertainty and compliance assessment of hemp samples
Authors: Sgrò Salvatore , Lavezzi Benedicta , Caprari Cristian , Polito Marco , D’Elia Marcello , Lago Giampietro , Furlan Giada , Girotti Stefano , Ferri Elida Nora
Published: March 2021

Hemp cultivation is living a period of renewed interest worldwide after long years of opposition and abandonment. The European Union (EU) allows and subsidizes the growing of fiber and oilseed cultivars of Cannabis sativa L. with respect to the THC content limit of 0.2%. The EU method for the quantitative determination of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content in hemp varieties provides to apply a tolerance of 0.03 g of THC per 100 g of sample concerning compliance assessment to that limit. However, the method does not report any precision data, especially useful as a function of THC content to evaluate measurement uncertainty and therefore to establish the conformity of hemp at different THC legal limits. Measurement uncertainty of the method by both bottom-up and top-down approach, besides repeatability and reproducibility, was investigated and estimated in the THC concentration range 0.2–1.0%, which includes the different legal limits set out for hemp around the world. We proposed Decision Rules for conformity of hemp showing that a non-compliant declaration beyond reasonable doubt should be stated when the THC content, as a mean result on a duplicate analysis, exceeds the limit by at least 11–15%, depending on THC limit. We highlighted other issues concerning practical aspects of hemp analysis, from sampling to evaluation of results, as well as the need to carry out collaborative studies on the EU method.

Graphical abstract
Light-Quality Manipulation to Control Plant Growth and Photomorphogenesis in Greenhouse Horticulture: The State of the Art and the Opportunities of Modern LED Systems
Authors: Paradiso Roberta , Proietti Simona
Published: March 2021

Light quantity (intensity and photoperiod) and quality (spectral composition) affect plant growth and physiology and interact with other environmental parameters and cultivation factors in determining the plant behaviour. More than providing the energy for photosynthesis, light also dictates specific signals which regulate plant development, shaping and metabolism, in the complex phenomenon of photomorphogenesis, driven by light colours. These are perceived even at very low intensity by five classes of specific photoreceptors, which have been characterized in their biochemical features and physiological roles. Knowledge about plant photomorphogenesis increased dramatically during the last years, also thanks the diffusion of light-emitting diodes (LEDs), which offer several advantages compared to the conventional light sources, such as the possibility to tailor the light spectrum and to regulate the light intensity, depending on the specific requirements of the different crops and development stages. This knowledge could be profitably applied in greenhouse horticulture to improve production schedules and crop yield and quality. This article presents a brief overview on the effects of light spectrum of artificial lighting on plant growth and photomorphogenesis in vegetable and ornamental crops, and on the state of the art of the research on LEDs in greenhouse horticulture. Particularly, we analysed these effects by approaching, when possible, each single-light waveband, as most of the review works available in the literature considers the influence of combined spectra.
Diurnal cycle of summer precipitation over the Eastern Tibetan Plateau and surrounding regions simulated in a convection-permitting model
Authors: Cai Shuxin , Huang Anning , Zhu Kefeng , Yang Ben , Yang Xianyu , Wu Yang , Mu Xiyu
Published: March 2021

Based on the hourly gauge-satellite merged precipitation data with the spatial resolution of 0.1° × 0.1° during 2013 ~ 2018, we have evaluated the performance of the convection-permitting Weather Research and Forecasting model at Nanjing University (WRF_NJU) in forecasting the precipitation diurnal variation and the associated atmospheric circulation over the eastern Tibetan Plateau and its surrounding regions during summer. Results indicate that WRF_NJU model can well reproduce the diurnal cycle of the summer precipitation in terms of the diurnal peak time, duration and magnitude. In addition, the eastward propagation of rainfall systems with long duration along the eastern Tibetan Plateau (ETP) and its adjacent areas can also be properly captured. The WRF_NJU model can reasonably reproduce the relevant atmospheric circulation during summer as well. However, the model tends to underestimate the summer precipitation amount (PA) and precipitation frequency (PF) over most time of a day. Relatively larger biases in the occurring time and magnitude of PA and PF diurnal peaks can be noted over the ETP and Sichuan Basin. Further analysis suggests that the underestimation of PA over the ETP is attributed to the much lower moisture supply, weaker low-level southwesterly winds and less convective available potential energy (CAPE) in the WRF_NJU model than in ERA5. Over Sichuan Basin, the underestimated PA is related to the weaker upward motion, which is corresponding to the cold biases of surface air temperature in WRF_NJU. Findings of this study provide the basic model biases and may be helpful to further improve the model physical processes.
Enteral resorbable diet versus standard diet in primary sphincter reconstruction: a prospective randomised trial
Authors: Joos Andreas , Bussen Dieter , Galata Christian , Reißfelder Christoph , Herold Alexander , Seyfried Steffen
Published: March 2021

Aim

Bowel movements after reconstructive anorectal surgery may negatively affect surgical outcome. This study was aimed to assess any differences between a standard diet (SD) and the enteral resorbable diet (ED) in terms of operative outcomes and patient tolerance after fistulectomy with primary sphincter reconstruction.

Method

Adult patients undergoing elective fistulectomy with primary sphincter reconstruction for anorectal and rectovaginal fistulas were eligible for inclusion. Patients were intraoperatively randomised to receive either the ED and peristalsis-inhibiting medication (ED) or a SD. The primary endpoint was the healing rate. Secondary endpoints included continence scores, complications and quality of life. Sample size calculation resulted in the analysis of 60 patients to detect a difference in fistula recurrence of 30% with 70% power and a 5% significance level.

Results

Sixty-six patients (24 women) were prospectively and randomly assigned to the ED (n = 34: 51%) or a SD (n = 32; 48%); mean age was 47 (18-74) years. The primary healing rate was 64 out of 66 patients (96%). No statistical difference in healing rate was seen between the groups. However, patient satisfaction was significantly higher in the SD group (P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Fistulectomy with primary sphincter reconstruction is a safe method with low complication rates. Postoperative stool behaviour has no significant influence on the healing rate but has a significant negative impact on patient satisfaction. Therefore, maintaining a standard diet seems to be preferable following reconstructive anal surgery.

Trial registration

The trial was registered with the German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS00020524).
TERT promoter mutation and chromosome 6 loss define a high-risk subtype of ependymoma evolving from posterior fossa subependymoma
Authors: Thomas Christian , Thierfelder Felix , Träger Malte , Soschinski Patrick , Müther Michael , Edelmann Dominic , Förster Alexandra , Geiler Carola , Kim Hee-yeong , Filipski Katharina , Harter Patrick N. , Schittenhelm Jens , Eckert Franziska , Ntoulias Georgios , May Sven-Axel , Stummer Walter , Onken Julia , Vajkoczy Peter , Schüller Ulrich , Heppner Frank L. , Capper David , Koch Arend , Kaul David , Paulus Werner , Hasselblatt Martin , Schweizer Leonille
Published: March 2021

Subependymomas are benign tumors characteristically encountered in the posterior fossa of adults that show distinct epigenetic profiles assigned to the molecular group “subependymoma, posterior fossa” (PFSE) of the recently established DNA methylation-based classification of central nervous system tumors. In contrast, most posterior fossa ependymomas exhibit a more aggressive biological behavior and are allocated to the molecular subgroups PFA or PFB. A subset of ependymomas shows epigenetic similarities with subependymomas, but the precise biology of these tumors and their potential relationships remain unknown. We therefore set out to characterize epigenetic traits, mutational profiles, and clinical outcomes of 50 posterior fossa ependymal tumors of the PFSE group. On histo-morphology, these tumors comprised 12 ependymomas, 14 subependymomas and 24 tumors with mixed ependymoma–subependymoma morphology. Mixed ependymoma–subependymoma tumors varied in their extent of ependymoma differentiation (2–95%) but consistently exhibited global epigenetic profiles of the PFSE group. Selective methylome analysis of microdissected tumor components revealed CpG signatures in mixed tumors that coalesce with their pure counterparts. Loss of chr6 (20/50 cases), as well as TERT mutations (21/50 cases), were frequent events enriched in tumors with pure ependymoma morphology (p < 0.001) and confined to areas with ependymoma differentiation in mixed tumors. Clinically, pure ependymoma phenotype, chr6 loss, and TERT mutations were associated with shorter progression-free survival (each p < 0.001). In conclusion, our results suggest that subependymomas may acquire genetic and epigenetic changes throughout tumor evolution giving rise to subclones with ependymoma morphology (resulting in mixed tumors) that eventually overpopulate the subependymoma component (pure PFSE ependymomas).
Space, time and number: common coding mechanisms and interactions between domains
Authors: Serrien Deborah J. , Spapé Michiel M.
Published: March 2021

Space, time and number are key dimensions that underlie how we perceive, identify and act within the environment. They are interconnected in our behaviour and brain. In this study, we examined interdependencies between these dimensions. To this end, left- and right-handed participants performed an object collision task that required space–time processing and arithmetic tests that involved number processing. Handedness of the participants influenced collision detection with left-handers being more accurate than right-handers, which is in line with the premise that hand preference guides individual differences as a result of sensorimotor experiences and distinct interhemispheric integration patterns. The data further showed that successful collision detection was a predictor for arithmetic achievement, at least in right-handers. These findings suggest that handedness plays a mediating role in binding information processing across domains, likely due to selective connectivity properties within the sensorimotor system that is guided by hemispheric lateralisation patterns.
Detection of microsatellite instability with Idylla MSI assay in colorectal and endometrial cancer
Authors: Ukkola Iiris , Nummela Pirjo , Pasanen Annukka , Kero Mia , Lepistö Anna , Kytölä Soili , Bützow Ralf , Ristimäki Ari
Published: March 2021

Universal testing of microsatellite instability (MSI) is recommended for colorectal cancer (CRC) and endometrial cancer (EC) to screen for Lynch syndrome and to aid in assessing prognosis and optimal treatment. We compared the performance of Idylla MSI test to immunohistochemistry (IHC) of mismatch repair (MMR) proteins in consecutive series of 100 CRC and 108 EC samples, as well as in retrospective series of 28 CRC and 33 EC specimens with known deficient MMR protein expression. The concordance between the Idylla test and IHC was 100% in all CRC samples (n=128) but lower in EC samples (87.2%; n=141). In the EC samples, sensitivity of Idylla test was 72.7% and specificity 100%. EC MSI/dMMR agreement was 85.4% for MLH1, 87.5% for MSH2, and only 35.3% for MSH6. When we analyzed 14 EC samples that were discrepant, i.e., dMMR using IHC and microsatellite stable using Idylla, with microsatellite markers BAT25 and BAT26, we found four cases to be replication error (RER) positive. All RER positive cases were deficient for MSH6 protein expression. We also re-analyzed EC samples with variable tumor cellularity to determine the limit of detection of the Idylla test and found that a 30% or higher tumor cellularity is required. We conclude that Idylla MSI test offers a sensitive and specific method for CRC diagnostics but is less sensitive in EC samples especially in the case of MSH6 deficiency.
Coagulopathy and its effect on treatment and mortality in patients with traumatic intracranial hemorrhage
Authors: Kinnunen Janne , Satopää Jarno , Niemelä Mika , Putaala Jukka
Published: March 2021

Background

The role of coagulopathy in patients with traumatic brain injury has remained elusive. In the present study, we aim to assess the prevalence of coagulopathy in patients with traumatic intracranial hemorrhage, their clinical features, and the effect of coagulopathy on treatment and mortality.

Methods

An observational, retrospective single-center cohort of consecutive patients with traumatic intracranial hemorrhage treated at Helsinki University Hospital between 01 January and 31 December 2010. We compared clinical and radiological parameters in patients with and without coagulopathy defined as drug- or disease-induced, i.e., antiplatelet or anticoagulant medication at a therapeutic dose, thrombocytopenia (platelet count < 100 E9/L), international normalized ratio > 1.2, or thromboplastin time < 60%. Primary outcome was 30-day all-cause mortality. Logistic regression analysis allowed to assess for factors associated with coagulopathy and mortality.

Results

Of our 505 patients (median age 61 years, 65.5% male), 206 (40.8%) had coagulopathy. Compared to non-coagulopathy patients, coagulopathy patients had larger hemorrhage volumes (mean 140.0 mL vs. 98.4 mL, p < 0.001) and higher 30-day mortality (18.9% vs. 9.7%, p = 0.003). In multivariable analysis, older age, lower admission Glasgow Coma Scale score, larger hemorrhage volume, and conservative treatment were independently associated with mortality. Surgical treatment was associated with lower mortality in both patients with and without coagulopathy.

Conclusions

Coagulopathy was more frequent in patients with traumatic intracranial hemorrhage presenting larger hemorrhage volumes compared to non-coagulopathy patients but was not independently associated with higher 30-day mortality. Hematoma evacuation, in turn, was associated with lower mortality irrespective of coagulopathy.
Multi-patient study for coronary vulnerable plaque model comparisons: 2D/3D and fluid–structure interaction simulations
Authors: Wang Qingyu , Tang Dalin , Wang Liang , Meahara Akiko , Molony David , Samady Habib , Zheng Jie , Mintz Gary S. , Stone Gregg W. , Giddens Don P.
Published: March 2021

Several image-based computational models have been used to perform mechanical analysis for atherosclerotic plaque progression and vulnerability investigations. However, differences of computational predictions from those models have not been quantified at multi-patient level. In vivo intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) coronary plaque data were acquired from seven patients. Seven 2D/3D models with/without circumferential shrink, cyclic bending and fluid–structure interactions (FSI) were constructed for the seven patients to perform model comparisons and quantify impact of 2D simplification, circumferential shrink, FSI and cyclic bending plaque wall stress/strain (PWS/PWSn) and flow shear stress (FSS) calculations. PWS/PWSn and FSS averages from seven patients (388 slices for 2D and 3D thin-layer models) were used for comparison. Compared to 2D models with shrink process, 2D models without shrink process overestimated PWS by 17.26%. PWS change at location with greatest curvature change from 3D FSI models with/without cyclic bending varied from 15.07% to 49.52% for the seven patients (average = 30.13%). Mean Max-FSS, Min-FSS and Ave-FSS from the flow-only models under maximum pressure condition were 4.02%, 11.29% and 5.45% higher than those from full FSI models with cycle bending, respectively. Mean PWS and PWSn differences between FSI and structure-only models were only 4.38% and 1.78%. Model differences had noticeable patient variations. FSI and flow-only model differences were greater for minimum FSS predictions, notable since low FSS is known to be related to plaque progression. Structure-only models could provide PWS/PWSn calculations as good approximations to FSI models for simplicity and time savings in calculation.
Impact of plasma irradiation on Tribolium castaneum
Authors: Sayed Waheed A. A. , Hassan Reda S. , Sileem Thanaa M. , Rumpold Birgit A.
Published: March 2021

Radio frequency plasma (RFP) could provide reliable, compact, cost-effective irradiation applications against insect pests of stored food and feed products. Sensitivity of red flour beetleTribolium castaneumto RFP has been investigated using an irradiation applicator system with the two types of inert gases, argon (Ar) and helium (He), at 100 W for five exposure time levels of 0, 20, 40, 60 and 90 s, respectively. We demonstrated that He RFP was more efficient againstT. castaneumthan Ar RFP. In addition, a positive correlation was observed between mortality percentages of treated insect stages and exposure times for both He and Ar RFP. The adult stage showed the highest tolerance to RFP irradiation followed by larvae and pupae; however, it was more susceptible than larvae within 24 h after He RFP treatments. The optimum exposure time was 90 s with He RFP, where a full mortality at all tested stages was accomplished, while mortalities of 71.4, 65.3 and 36.7% were recorded for pupae, larvae and adult stage, respectively, after an Ar RFP treatment of 90 s. In case of treated adults, the reproduction rate was higher than treated larvae and pupae. Our findings indicated that He RFP was an effective method for inhibitingT. castaneumdevelopment and impacting the insect life cycle and could be considered a promising tool for pest control of stored food.
Insufficient declines in new HIV infection rates amidst high scores in HIV testing and awareness: ‘a game theory simulation’
Authors: Ochanda Perez Nicholas , Ssempala Richard , Kayongo Allan , Odokonyero Tonny
Published: March 2021

Aim

Substantial progress has been made towards the 90–90–90 global targets; however, the pace at which new infections are declining remains undesirable to meet the UNAIDS 2020 global targets of below 500,000 new infections annually. We discussed the possibility of continued HIV incidence amidst remarkable scores in the 90–90–90 global targets.

Subject and methods

A game theory simulation was used to explain micro-level sexual interactions in situations of imperfect information on each partner’s HIV status. A non-cooperative sex game tree was constructed following the Harsanyi transformation in two scenarios; scenario one: a player assigns higher subjective probability that the partner is HIV negative; and in scenario two: a player assigns higher subjective probability that the partner is HIV positive. Subjective expected utilities were computed using hypothetical payoffs.

Results

Accepting unprotected sex is a pure strategy for both players in scenario 1. Player2 is likely to acquire HIV/AIDS. Accepting protected sex is a mixed strategy equilibrium for both players in scenario 2. Player2 is likely to avoid HIV infection.

Conclusion

Choice for safe or risky sex is a function of subjective probabilities individuals attach to their partners being infected or uninfected. More efforts towards addressing factors affecting individual probability distributions on riskiness of their sexual partners is required, especially for young women in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Adaptation and early implementation of the PREdiction model for gene mutations (PREMM5™) for lynch syndrome risk assessment in a diverse population
Authors: Mittendorf Kathleen F. , Ukaegbu Chinedu , Gilmore Marian J. , Lindberg Nangel M. , Kauffman Tia L. , Eubanks Donna J. , Shuster Elizabeth , Allen Jake , McMullen Carmit , Feigelson Heather Spencer , Anderson Katherine P. , Leo Michael C. , Hunter Jessica Ezzell , Sasaki Sonia Okuyama , Zepp Jamilyn M. , Syngal Sapna , Wilfond Benjamin S. , Goddard Katrina A. B.
Published: March 2021

Lynch syndrome (LS) is the most common inherited cause of colorectal and endometrial cancers. Identifying individuals at risk for LS without personal cancer history requires detailed collection and assessment of family health history. However, barriers exist to family health history collection, especially in historically underserved populations. To improve LS risk assessment in historically underserved populations, we adapted the provider-facing PREdiction Model for gene Mutations (PREMM5™ model), a validated LS risk assessment model, into a patient-facing electronic application through an iterative development process involving expert and patient stakeholders. We report on preliminary findings based on the first 500 individuals exposed to the adapted application in a primary care population enriched for low-literacy and low-resource patients. Major adaptations to the PREMM5™ provider module included reduction in reading level, addition of interactive literacy aids, incorporation of family history assessment for both maternal and paternal sides of the family, and inclusion of questions about individual relatives or small groups of relatives to reduce cognitive burden. In the first 500 individuals, 90% completed the PREMM5™ independently; of those, 94% did so in 5 min or less (ranged from 0.2 to 48.8 min). The patient-facing application was able to accurately classify 84% of patients as having clinically significant or not clinically significant LS risk. Our preliminary results suggest that in this diverse study population, most participants were able to rapidly, accurately, and independently complete an interactive application collecting family health history assessment that accurately assessed for Lynch syndrome risk.
Analogue tuning of particle focusing in elasto-inertial flow
Authors: Banerjee I. , Rosti M. E. , Kumar T. , Brandt L. , Russom A.
Published: March 2021

We report a unique tuneable analogue trend in particle focusing in the laminar and weak viscoelastic regime of elasto-inertial flows. We observe experimentally that particles in circular cross-section microchannels can be tuned to any focusing bandwidths that lie between the “Segre-Silberberg annulus” and the centre of a circular microcapillary. We use direct numerical simulations to investigate this phenomenon and to understand how minute amounts of elasticity affect the focussing of particles at increasing flow rates. An Immersed Boundary Method is used to account for the presence of the particles and a FENE-P model is used to simulate the presence of polymers in a Non-Newtonian fluid. The numerical simulations study the dynamics and stability of finite size particles and are further used to analyse the particle behaviour at Reynolds numbers higher than what is allowed by the experimental setup. In particular, we are able to report the entire migration trajectories of the particles as they reach their final focussing positions and extend our predictions to other geometries such as the square cross section. We believe complex effects originate due to a combination of inertia and elasticity in the weakly viscoelastic regime, where neither inertia nor elasticity are able to mask each other’s effect completely, leading to a number of intermediate focusing positions. The present study provides a fundamental new understanding of particle focusing in weakly elastic and strongly inertial flows, whose findings can be exploited for potentially multiple microfluidics-based biological sorting applications.
Performance measurement and joint production of intended and unintended outputs
Authors: Førsund Finn R.
Published: March 2021

The generation of unintended residuals when producing intended outputs is the key factor behind our serious problems with pollution. The way this joint production is modelled is therefore of crucial importance for our understanding and empirical efforts to change economic activities in order to reduce harmful residuals. Estimation of efficiency and productivity when producing both intended and unintended outputs has emerged as an important research strand. The most popular models in the field are based on weak disposability of the two types of outputs together and null-jointness introduced by Shephard. The purpose of the paper is to show that these model types are built on some questionable assumptions. An alternative model based on the production theory of Frisch introduces technical jointness for the case when the unintended output is unavoidable. The materials balance based on physical laws tells us that when material inputs are used unintended outputs are unavoidable. The modelling of joint production must therefore reflect this. The production of the two types of outputs occurs simultaneously. It is the maximisation of intended outputs for given inputs that engineers are striving at to achieve. The production functions for intended and unintended outputs are linked through common use of inputs. However, separate functions for the two types of output can be estimated because the intended outputs are independent of the unintended ones and vice versa, facilitating calculating separate efficiency and productivity measures using non-parametric DEA methods.
Correction to: The Connection Between the Body and the Environment: a Changing View
Authors: Ewen Birgitta Mc
Published: March 2021

A Correction to this paper has been published: 10.1007/s11191-021-00195-1
Intensivierung von enzymkatalysierten Reaktionen
Authors: Holtmann Dirk , Hollmann Frank
Published: March 2021

Process intensification aims at enabling bridging the gap between fundamental research such as identification of new catalysts and reactions and their implementation in industrial environments. Especially the field of biocatalysis has seen some tremendous improvements and the development of new tools and approaches to bridge this gap. In this contribution we highlight some recent developments as selected case studies.
Photosymbiose — neuartige Anwendungen in der Biomedizin
Authors: Chávez Myra N. , Fuchs Benedikt , Nickelsen Jörg
Published: March 2021

We have recently proposed a novel strategy named photosynthetic tissue engineering to overcome clinical problems due to hypoxia. The idea is based on transgenic photoautotrophic microorganisms that produce oxygen and at the same time secrete functional recombinant proteins into tissues. In particular, the unicellular green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii has successfully been used to boost the regenerative potential of several biomedical devices, such as dermal scaffolds and surgical sutures.
Multi-sided platform and data-driven care research
Authors: Fürstenau Daniel , Klein Stefan , Vogel Amyn , Auschra Carolin
Published: March 2021

Multi-sided platforms in healthcare often focus their business model on standardizing care for wide-spread, chronic diseases. However, there is a lack of knowledge surrounding platform business models enabling individualized care coordination for patients with rare diseases. This paper analyses the development of a complex platform business model addressing Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, a severe neurological disease that requires the coordination of a diverse network of medical specialists, care, and equipment providers. A longitudinal case study examines the platform’s development, focusing subsequently on qualitative and efficient care coordination, care research, and active and direct involvement of patients, as well as establishing two business models, namely, care coordination and care research. We reconstruct how these complex platform business models were configured to improve patient care and care research, thereby creating immediate value for patients and insights for long-term care improvements. The ongoing platform development carefully balances value generation for diverse stakeholders and economic sustainability.
Metastatic pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma: signs and symptoms related to catecholamine secretion
Authors: Li Minghao , Pamporaki Christina , Fliedner Stephanie M. J. , Timmers Henri J. L. M. , Nölting Svenja , Beuschlein Felix , Prejbisz Aleksander , Remde Hanna , Robledo Mercedes , Bornstein Stefan R. , Lenders Jacques W. M. , Eisenhofer Graeme , Bechmann Nicole
Published: March 2021

Background

The presence or future development of metastatic pheochromocytomas or paragangliomas (mPPGLs) can be difficult to diagnose or predict at initial presentation. Since production of catecholamines from mPPGLs is different from non-metastatic tumors (non-mPPGLs), this study aimed to clarify whether presenting catecholamine-related signs and symptoms (cSS) might also differ.

Methods

The study included 249 patients, 43 with mPPGL and 206 with non-mPPGL. Clinical data at the time of biochemical diagnosis (i.e. at entry into the study) were used to generate a cumulative score of cSS for each patient.

Results

Patients with mPPGL were significantly younger (43.3 ± 14 vs. 48.9 ± 16.1 years) and included a lower proportion of females (39.5% vs. 60.7%) than patients with non-mPPGLs. Frequencies of signs and symptoms did not differ between the two groups. Patients with mPPGLs had lower (P < 0.001) urinary excretion of epinephrine (3.5 (IQR, 1.9—6.5) µg/day) than those with non-mPPGLs (19.1 (IQR, 4.3—70.2) µg/day). There was no difference in urinary excretion of norepinephrine. In patients with mPPGLs a high cSS score was associated with high urinary excretion of norepinephrine and normetanephrine. In contrast, in patients with non-mPPGLs, a high cSS was associated with high urinary excretion of epinephrine and metanephrine.

Conclusion

Although presenting signs and symptoms were associated with production of norepinephrine in patients with mPPGLs and of epinephrine in patients with non-mPPGLs, there were no differences in signs and symptoms between the two groups. Therefore, consideration of signs and symptoms does not appear helpful for distinguishing patients with and without mPPGLs.
Socioeconomic benefits of conserving Iran’s water resources through modifying agricultural practices and water management strategies
Authors: Karandish Fatemeh
Published: March 2021

Sustainable development requires modifying the current consumption pattern of natural resources. This study investigates efficient tactics for reducing the unsustainability and inefficiency of human’s food-related blue water consumption alongside improving national environmental and socioeconomic status. As a case study for Iran, 15 alternative management scenarios (AMS) were defined compared to the current on-farm management, and their effects were assessed on a monthly scale. Based on the results, 45.5 billion m3 y−1 (BCM) blue water is consumed within the croplands, 78% and 34% of which are unsustainable and inefficient, respectively. AMCs reduces the unsustainable and inefficient blue water consumption by 2–17 BCM and 2–13 BCM, respectively. The combination of yield gap closure, drip irrigation, soil mulching, and deficit irrigation has the largest effect on blue water saving; it releases or changes the status of monthly blue water scarcity in 11 provinces; increases field-employees by 132%, food security by 9%, international food-export by 87%, and gross domestic production by 54%. However, it doesn’t fully address blue water overconsumption in the summer period; hence, further measures are needed to reduce blue water scarcity to the sustainable level in these environmental hotspots.
On fractional Orlicz–Sobolev spaces
Authors: Alberico Angela , Cianchi Andrea , Pick Luboš , Slavíková Lenka
Published: March 2021

Some recent results on the theory of fractional Orlicz–Sobolev spaces are surveyed. They concern Sobolev type embeddings for these spaces with an optimal Orlicz target, related Hardy type inequalities, and criteria for compact embeddings. The limits of these spaces when the smoothness parameter$$s\in (0,1)$$s∈(0,1)tends to either of the endpoints of its range are also discussed. This note is based on recent papers of ours, where additional material and proofs can be found.
Brain networks in eating disorders: a systematic review of graph theory studies
Authors: Collantoni Enrico , Alberti Francesco , Meregalli Valentina , Meneguzzo Paolo , Tenconi Elena , Favaro Angela
Published: March 2021

Purpose

Recent evidence from neuroimaging research has shown that eating disorders (EDs) are characterized by alterations in interconnected neural systems, whose characteristics can be usefully described by connectomics tools. The present paper aimed to review the neuroimaging literature in EDs employing connectomic tools, and, specifically, graph theory analysis.

Methods

A systematic review of the literature was conducted to identify studies employing graph theory analysis on patients with eating disorders published before the 22nd of June 2020.

Results

Twelve studies were included in the systematic review. Ten of them address anorexia nervosa (AN) (AN = 199; acute AN = 85, weight recovered AN with acute diagnosis = 24; fully recovered AN = 90). The remaining two articles address patients with bulimia nervosa (BN) (BN = 48). Global and regional unbalance in segregation and integration properties were described in both disorders.

Discussion

The literature concerning the use of connectomics tools in EDs evidenced the presence of alterations in the topological characteristics of brain networks at a global and at a regional level. Changes in local characteristics involve areas that have been demonstrated to be crucial in the neurobiology and pathophysiology of EDs. Regional imbalances in network properties seem to reflect on global patterns.

Level of evidence

Level I, systematic review.