bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ensemble machine learning for personalized antihypertensive treatment
Authors: Bertsimas Dimitris , Borenstein Alison Rose Ann , Dauvin Antonin , Orfanoudaki Agni
Published: December 2021

Due to its prevalence and association with cardiovascular diseases and premature death, hypertension is a major public health challenge. Proper prevention and management measures are needed to effectively reduce the pervasiveness of the condition. Current clinical guidelines for hypertension provide physicians with general suggestions for first‐line pharmacologic treatment, but do not consider patient‐specific characteristics. In this study, longitudinal electronic health record data are utilized to develop personalized predictions and prescription recommendations for hypertensive patients. We demonstrate that both binary classification and regression algorithms can be used to accurately predict a patient's future hypertensive status. We then present a prescriptive framework to determine the optimal antihypertensive treatment for a patient using their individual characteristics and clinical condition. Given the observational nature of the data, we address potential confounding through generalized propensity score evaluation and optimal matching. For patients for whom the algorithm recommendation differs from the standard of care, we demonstrate an approximate 15.87% decrease in next blood pressure score based on the predicted outcome under the recommended treatment. An interactive dashboard has been developed to be used by physicians as a clinical support tool.
Clinicopathological study of surgery for pulmonary metastases of hepatoblastoma with indocyanine green fluorescent imaging
Authors: Yoshida Misa , Tanaka Mio , Kitagawa Norihiko , Nozawa Kumiko , Shinkai Masato , Goto Hiroaki , Tanaka Yukichi
Published: December 2021

Background

The prognosis of metastatic hepatoblastoma remains poor; to improve it, pulmonary metastasis must be controlled. Indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescent imaging has been used recently for lung metastasectomy. The objective of our study was to clarify the usefulness of ICG imaging for lung metastasectomy of hepatoblastoma using detailed clinicopathological analysis.

Procedure

Patients with hepatoblastoma who underwent resection of pulmonary metastases with ICG fluorescent imaging were studied using a retrospective analysis of clinical information, a review of their surgical records, and a histological analysis of their metastatic nodules.

Results

Sixteen patients were enrolled. In total, 61 ICG imaging‐guided pulmonary metastasectomies were performed, and 350 ICG‐positive and 23 ICG‐negative specimens were identified. Tumors were confirmed in 250 of the ICG‐positive specimens, including eight nonpalpable nodules, on microscopic examination. ICG‐positive and tumor‐negative specimens showed histological changes suggesting the regression of a tumor or bloodstream disturbance.

Conclusions

Surgical resection is one of the few treatment strategies available to patients with hepatoblastoma with multiple relapses of pulmonary metastasis resistant to chemotherapy. This study demonstrates the high sensitivity of ICG imaging and that thorough metastasectomy can be achieved with ICG imaging. Because a number of false‐positive specimens were detected, further optimization of the dose of ICG and the timing of its administration, and establishment of detection of ICG‐positive, tumor‐negative nodules during surgery are important issues. Several false‐negative specimens were also detected, suggesting the presence of ICG‐negative metastatic tumors. Palpation during surgery and imaging studies remain essential for detecting metastatic lesions, even in the era of ICG imaging.
Clinical implication of residual MIBG‐positive disease in the follow‐up of high‐risk neuroblastoma treated with tandem high‐dose chemotherapy and autologous stem cell transplantation
Authors: Seo Eun Seop , Shin Muheon , Lim Hana , Cho Hee Won , Ju Hee Young , Cho Young‐Seok , Yoo Keon Hee , Koo Hong Hoe , Lee Ji Won , Sung Ki Woong
Published: December 2021

Background

The implication of residual metaiodobenzylguanidine (MIBG)‐positive disease in the era of tandem high‐dose chemotherapy (HDCT) with autologous stem cell transplantation (auto‐SCT) has not yet been established in neuroblastoma. Moreover, most published studies have not evaluated the long‐term prognosis of patients with residual MIBG‐positive disease following treatment completion. Therefore, we investigated the prognostic significance of residual MIBG‐positive disease at each treatment phase and after treatment completion.

Methods

We assessed MIBG scans labeled with either iodine‐123 (123I) or 131I from 150 patients with MIBG‐avid and high‐risk neuroblastoma enrolled in the NB‐2004, ‐2009, and ‐2014 trials at postinduction, posttandem HDCT/auto‐SCT, and completion of treatment.

Results

The residual MIBG‐positive disease at postinduction and posttandem HDCT/auto‐SCT evaluation was highly correlated with the risk of progression. However, at treatment completion, there was no significant difference in survival and risk of progression between patients with residual MIBG‐positive disease and MIBG‐negative patients. Patients with persistent MIBG‐positive disease at the end of treatment were more likely to have indolent tumor characteristics, such as favorable histology at diagnosis, lower incidence of MYCN amplification, and slow response to chemotherapy.

Conclusion

Residual MIBG‐positive disease during treatment predicted unfavorable outcomes for patients with high‐risk neuroblastoma, even under tandem HDCT/auto‐SCT. However, persistent MIBG uptake at the completion of all treatments may not always indicate an active disease.
Sirolimus efficacy in the treatment of critically ill infants with congenital primary chylous effusions
Authors: Agarwal Shreya , Anderson Berkley Kingman , Mahajan Priya , Fernandes Caraciolo J. , Margolin Judith F. , Iacobas Ionela
Published: December 2021

Background

Chylothorax can be a presenting symptom of complex lymphatic anomaly in children and is associated with significant respiratory morbidity. Historically, the traditional pharmacological treatment has been octreotide. There are several treatments that have been utilized in the past few years including sirolimus; however, data regarding their efficacy and outcomes is limited. Furthermore, sirolimus has proven efficacy in complex vascular malformations, and hence, its utility/efficacy in infantile primary chylous effusions warrants further investigation.

Methods

In this retrospective study at Texas Children's Hospital, data were extracted for all infants with chylothorax who were treated with sirolimus between 2009 and 2020. Details regarding underlying diagnosis, comorbidities, and number of days from sirolimus initiation to resolution of effusion were collected.

Results

Initially a total of 12 infants were identified. Among them, seven patients had complete data and were included in the study. Reasons for chylous effusions include presumed complex lymphatic anomaly, generalized lymphatic anomaly, and complex congenital lymphatic anomaly. The mean duration of sirolimus treatment needed for chest tube removal was 16 days, with a median of 19 days and range of 7–22 days. No patients had progression of effusions while on sirolimus.

Conclusion

With close monitoring, sirolimus appears to be an effective therapy for pediatric lymphatic effusions even in critically ill infants. The study also demonstrates shorter duration of chest tube requirement after initiation of sirolimus compared to previous studies. Larger multi‐institutional studies are needed to further support our findings.
Preparation, thermal, and mechanical properties of polyethylene glycol/expoxy resin composites as form‐stable phase change materials
Authors: Wang Tingjun , Wang Chaoming , Chen Ke , Liu Xing , Huang Zheng
Published: December 2021

A series of polyethylene glycol (PEG)/epoxy (EP) resin composites with various mass loadings of PEG (50%–80%), in which PEG acted as phase change materials (PCMs) and EP served as the supporting matrix to afford structural strength and avoided the leakage of melt PEG, was made via casting mold technique. The effect of PEG mass content on the form‐stability, thermal property, morphology, and mechanical property of the composite phase change materials (CPCMs) were characterized by Fourier transformation infrared spectroscope (FTIR), differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA), and atomic force microscopy (AFM), respectively. The results displayed that the EP was compatible well with the PEG, and the CPCMs showed excellent form‐stability, good thermal reliability and stability even with 80 wt% PEG loading and under high temperature. In addition, the average adhesion force of the PEG/EP CPCMs increased as the PEG mass loading increased. In summary, the as‐prepared form‐stable PEG/EP CPCMs had promising potential for practical latent heat thermal energy storage (LHTES) applications.
Methods and challenges in the detection of microplastics and nanoplastics: a mini‐review
Authors: Adhikari Sangeet , Kelkar Varun , Kumar Rahul , Halden Rolf U
Published: December 2021

Microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) constitute a newly recognized class of contaminants of emerging concern in air, soil, water and food, causing unavoidable exposure to humans and animals. Detection, identification and quantification of MPs and NPs in environmental matrices and biota is challenging due to the analytes' small size, random morphology, polymeric diversity, applied coatings and vast surface areas which attract chemical and microbial sorbates. This mini‐review explores strengths and weaknesses of analytical methods commonly used for MP and NP identification and quantification, including stereomicroscopy, SEM, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, flow cytometry and mass spectrometry techniques including matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight, pyrolysis gas chromatography–mass spectrometry and liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. Analytical challenges involved in precise MP/NP detection have been identified and recommendations have been provided to ensure data quality addressing common data quality concerns, including the difficulty of obtaining irrefutable proof that detected polymers originated from the sample as opposed to sample contamination during sample acquisition, sample processing and analysis. © 2021 The Authors. Polymer International published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Different directions for retro‐inverso peptides
Authors: Preston George W.
Published: December 2021

Retro‐inverso peptides are reversed sequences of mirror‐image amino acid residues. Synthetic molecules of this type have long been considered potential mimics of functional peptides. This Peptide Highlights article examines some recent applications of the retro‐inverso transformation at the interface of peptide chemistry and medicine.
A novel integrated QSP model of in vivo human glucose regulation to support the development of a glucagon/GLP‐1 dual agonist
Authors: Bosch Rolien , Petrone Marcella , Arends Rosalin , Vicini Paolo , Sijbrands Eric J. G. , Hoefman Sven , Snelder Nelleke
Published: December 2021

Glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) receptor agonists (GLP‐1RAs) and dual GLP‐1/glucagon receptor agonists improve glycaemic control and cause significant weight loss in patients with type 2 diabetes.1 These effects are driven in part by augmenting glucose‐stimulated insulin release (incretin effect), reducing caloric intake and delayed gastric emptying. We developed and externally validated a novel integrated quantitative systems pharmacology (QSP) model to gain quantitative insight into the relative contributions and mechanisms of drugs modulating glucose regulatory pathways. This model (4GI model) incorporates known feedback mechanisms among glucose, GLP‐1, glucagon, glucose‐dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP), and insulin after glucose provocation (i.e., food intake) and drug intervention utilizing published nonpharmacological and pharmacological (liraglutide, a GLP‐1RA) data. The resulting model accurately describes the aforementioned mechanisms and independently predicts the effects of the GLP‐1RAs (dulaglutide and semaglutide) on system dynamics. Therefore, the validated 4GI model represents a quantitative decision‐making tool to support the advancement of novel therapeutics and combination strategies modulating these pathways.
Recent Progress of Light Intensity‐Modulated Small Perturbation Techniques in Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Parikh Nishi , Narayanan Saranya , Kumari Hemant , Prochowicz Daniel , Kalam Abul , Satapathi Soumitra , Akin Seckin , Tavakoli Mohammad Mahdi , Yadav Pankaj
Published: December 2021

The small perturbation frequency‐resolved techniques have been powerful tools in unraveling the kinetic processes governing the operation of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). One such technique is electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). However, a thorough interpretation of the EIS response of PSCs is still lacking owing to the absence of a uniform electrical equivalent circuit. In this context, intensity‐modulated photocurrent/photovoltage spectroscopy (IMPS/IMVS) can be the link between the optical and electrical responses of PSCs and complement the IS technique. In this review, the progress made in interpreting the IMPS/IMVS response of various types of PSCs is summarized and diverse prospects are discussed. First, the basic theory and models present in the literature are discussed. Next, the IMPS/IMVS response of mesoporous and planar PSCs based on various physical parameters is discussed. At last, proposed future prospects for the development of this field are discussed.
The development of a novel macroinvertebrate indexing tool for the determination of salinity effects in freshwater habitats
Authors: Pickwell Alex , Constable Drew , Chadd Richard , Extence Chris , Little Sally
Published: December 2021

Salinisation is a global threat to freshwater habitats and is predicted to worsen with climate change. Increases in salinity can result in substantial modification of freshwater biotic communities through both direct toxic effects and indirect effects such as altering prey resources, competitive interactions, predator abundances, and facilitating the spread of invasive species. Traditional techniques to determine salinity, such as point sampling chemical assessment, are typically periodic and may not reveal intermittent changes in salinity concentration. Halo‐stratification and a lack of standardised depth to collect chemical data further complicates using these methods. More importantly, such methods do not show the ecological impacts of salinity increases in freshwater habitats. Complementing traditional techniques with biological assessments may resolve these issues. Pressure‐specific biotic indices using aquatic macroinvertebrate community data have long been used to assess aspects of aquatic habitats, although relatively few have focussed on salinity. This paper presents the Salinity Association Group Index (SAGI), a novel aquatic macroinvertebrate index to assess salinity in freshwater habitats. SAGI is compatible with data derived from established survey techniques employed by regulatory bodies and for Water Framework Directive assessments, amongst others. The method integrates taxonomic resolution beyond the family level with taxon abundance weighting in a scoring matrix to increase the efficacy of the tool and make the best use of publicly available data. Application of SAGI in case studies demonstrates a positive, moderate to strong correlation with conductivity used as a measure of salinity. The range of correlations (R2 = 0.57–0.91) compares favourably with pressure‐specific, macroinvertebrate‐based monitoring tools used in Europe for WFD monitoring. Furthermore, SAGI is shown to be highly effective in comparison to alternative salinity‐specific biotic indices.
Longitudinal patterns in riverine ecology within and among seven Pacific Northwest rivers: Implications for river research, monitoring and management
Authors: Herlihy Alan T. , Hughes Robert M. , Gerth William J.
Published: December 2021

Rivers vary because of their different geographic settings and their differing levels of anthropogenic disturbances. Relative to wadeable streams, boatable or raftable rivers are much less studied because they require more expensive gear and are more dangerous to sample. Because of the importance of Pacific Northwest rivers for water supply, recreation, and endangered fish species, we selected seven rivers of interest to state, tribal, or federal agencies. Our objectives were to determine the degree to which fish and macroinvertebrate assemblages varied with water quality, habitat structure, and distance along each river, as well as the degree to which each river differed from the others. We sampled the rivers by inflatable rafts and assessed spatial patterns in fish and macroinvertebrate assemblages as well as water quality and physical habitat structure at 20 sites spread out longitudinally along each river. By analyzing site‐to‐site similarity matrices for fish, macroinvertebrates, chemistry, habitat, and river distance, we found that water quality‐river distance relationships were relatively strong, but habitat structure‐distance relationships were usually weak or absent. Also, site‐to‐site similarity in water quality was unrelated to the site‐to‐site similarity in habitat structure. Among‐river variability was much greater than within‐river variability for both fish and macroinvertebrate assemblages. We observed very different patterns among the seven rivers regarding the importance of distance, water quality, and physical habitat similarities relative to fish and macroinvertebrate assemblage similarities. The best set of environmental variables for distinguishing biotic assemblage similarities varied widely among rivers, and among the two assemblage types. We conclude that the riverscape concept is valuable for river monitoring, research, and management, as well as the value of rigorously sampling both water quality and physical habitat as well as both fish and macroinvertebrate assemblages.
Tuning Hot Carrier Dynamics of InP/ZnSe/ZnS Quantum Dots by Shell Morphology Control
Authors: Park Jumi , Won Yu‐Ho , Han Yongseok , Kim Hyun‐Mi , Jang Eunjoo , Kim Dongho
Published: December 2021

Isotropic InP/ZnSe/ZnS quantum dots (QDs) are prepared at a high reaction temperature, which facilitates ZnSe shell growth on random facets of the InP core. Fast crystal growth enables stacking faults elimination, which induces anisotropic growth, and as a result, improves the photoluminescence (PL) quantum yield by nearly 20%. Herein, the effect of the QD morphology on photophysical properties is investigated by observing the PL blinking and ultrafast charge carrier dynamics. It is found that hot hole trapping is considerably suppressed in isotropic InP QDs, indicating that the stacking faults in the anisotropic InP/ZnSe structures act as defects for luminescence. These results highlight the importance of understanding the correlation between QD shapes and hot carrier dynamics, and present a way to design highly luminescent QDs for further promising display applications.
Effect of Lance Design on Jet Characteristics in 250 t Converter
Authors: Liu Chao , Zheng Shu-guo , Zhu Miao-yong
Published: December 2021

The supersonic jet characteristics of the oxygen lance nozzle play an important role in converter melting. However, limited studies have investigated the different nozzle arrangements to improve the jet characteristics. This study uses FLUENT to establish a compressible nonisothermal computational fluid model with a 250 t converter as the object, and the model first validates and then discusses the effects of the center hole and postcombustion (PC) oxygen lance secondary hole on the aggregation behavior and impact area of the oxygen jet based on the conventional five‐hole oxygen lance. The study shows that, at the same distance, the influence of the peripheral jet offset degree from small to large is secondary hole–center hole–secondary hole with center hole. At the lance height of 1900 mm, compared to the traditional five‐hole oxygen lance offset theoretical axial centerline distance is 1.98, 2.31, and 3.20 times. The larger the jet migration degree of the peripheral hole, the smaller is the velocity of the peripheral jet. The presence of center hole, secondary hole, and center hole with secondary hole encloses 1.04, 1.09, and 1.47 times the area enclosed by the conventional five‐hole oxygen lance at 150 m s−1 isovelocity line, respectively.
Developing consensus for definitions of key veterinary‐specific quality improvement (QI) terms using an eDelphi‐study method
Authors: Rooke Freya , Burford John , Doorly Ashley , Gush Chris , Brennan Marnie L.
Published: December 2021

Background

Quality improvement (QI) methods are a continuous process of iterative tests to improve the quality of a service or product. Using common language has been linked to the successful implementation of QI in human healthcare. This study aimed to assimilate and achieve consensus on veterinary‐specific definitions for terms associated with quality care and QI methods in UK veterinary practice.

Methods

A four‐round modified eDelphi process with a panel of 50 UK veterinary practice stakeholders was used to generate consensus. The panel selected or suggested the definition they best felt ‘fitted’ each term. Consensus was reached if there was >70% agreement, and terms were eliminated if there was <15% selection.

Results

Thirty‐one panellists completed all three rounds of eDelphi; eight participants completed an optional feedback round. From 14 terms, 10 reached consensus, leaving four unresolved definitions.

Conclusions

A majority of terms reached consensus; 90% were new or amended definitions proposed by panel members. Utilising plain English refined by stakeholders will allow successful implementation of QI in veterinary healthcare. Not all terms achieved consensus, highlighting a need for further research to enable successful integration of QI principles as seen in human healthcare.
Utility of preputial cytology to diagnose hyperoestrogenism in a dog with an intra‐abdominal Sertoli cell tumour with concurrent thrombocytopaenia and intracranial haemorrhage
Authors: Cutler Simone M. , Melega Maverick , Wilson Liam , Breheny Craig R. , Serra Juan‐Carlos
Published: December 2021

A 6‐year‐old unilateral cryptorchid dog presented with episcleral haemorrhage and ecchymosis. The complete blood count was consistent with pancytopaenia. Abdominal imaging confirmed the presence of a caudal abdominal mass suspected to be a Sertoli cell tumour (SCT) with associated myelotoxicity. The presence of myelotoxicity induced thrombocytopaenia and the delay in obtaining serum oestradiol results could make it challenging to confirm hyperoestrogenism in suspected SCTs without overt feminisation. Preputial cytology was used as a rapid and simple way to diagnose hyperoestrogenism in a dog without overt signs of feminisation and where the risk of significant haemorrhage precluded abdominal mass sampling. This technique could potentially detect hyperoestrogenism before clinical signs of feminisation and can readily be carried out in first opinion practice. A postmortem examination following sudden deterioration confirmed the presence of an SCT in the retained testicle and intracranial haemorrhage secondary to thrombocytopaenia.
The state‐of‐the‐art on tours for dynamic visualization of high‐dimensional data
Authors: Lee Stuart , Cook Dianne , da Silva Natalia , Laa Ursula , Spyrison Nicholas , Wang Earo , Zhang H. Sherry
Published: December 2021

This article discusses a high‐dimensional visualization technique called the tour, which can be used to view data in more than three dimensions. We review the theory and history behind the technique, as well as modern software developments and applications of the tour that are being found across the sciences and machine learning.

This article is categorized under:

Statistical and Graphical Methods of Data Analysis > Analysis of High Dimensional Data

Statistical and Graphical Methods of Data Analysis > Statistical Graphics and Visualization

Statistical Learning and Exploratory Methods of the Data Sciences > Exploratory Data Analysis
Fab the Knowledge
Authors: Scataglini Sofia , Busciantella-Ricci Daniele
Published: December 2021

This paper draws a link between what happens in maker spaces and how these processes can be simulated in the mathematical collaborative model (co-model) of the research through collaborative design (co-design) process (RTC). The result is the ability to identify the main variables for simulating the “making” dynamics of the RTC model. This outcome is discussed with an emphasis on the “intangible” role of “making,” alongside the proposed concept of “fab the knowledge.” Speculative thinking is used here to link the innovative and theoretical aspects of design research to their application in and for innovative learning contexts. The RTC co-model can be used to compute, simulate and train a co-design process in intangible spaces, such as fab labs. In these spaces, multiple actors with different skills and backgrounds, who may or may not be experts in design, collaborate on setting a design question and identifying a shared design answer, in a process of RTC. A “network” of neural mechanisms operating and communicating between design experts and non-experts, like a computing system of a biological mechanism, can be used to train and simulate a research answer, thereby “fabricating” knowledge.
Museum Education Between Digital Technologies and Unplugged Processes. Two Case Studies
Authors: Carlini Alessandra
Published: December 2021

This document presents the results of architectural design and prototyping of educational kits within the museum context, two case studies featuring a combination of digital technologies and unplugged processes. The field of application is cultural heritage and the topics are part of school curricula. The first case study is a museum display of digital video installations and educational kits that reproduce mechanisms of symmetry from patterned flooring (“www.formulas.it” laboratory, Department of Architecture, Roma Tre University and Liceo Scientifico Cavour” high school). The second case concerns the setting up of a school fab lab in which 3D-printed prototype educational kits are made for schools and museums in Rome, in partnership with the Municipality of Rome and the Ministry of Cultural Heritage and Activities (General Directorate for Education and Research). The cases involve professional, research and didactic experiences which led to funding-supported projects. The experiences showcase good practices in informal and cooperative learning, and highlight the relationship between education and popularization that draws on our architectural heritage.
Educational Robotics in Informal Contexts: An Experience at CoderDojo Pomezia
Authors: Cannone Lina
Published: December 2021

The project aims to develop technical skills in primary school students. Technical courses are usually not popular among schoolchildren. With the introduction of the National Plan for Digital Education (PNSD) by Italian Education Ministry since 2015, words like coding, robotics and computational thinking are used more frequently in primary school classrooms. CoderDojo is a worldwide movement working to introduce children to robotics and computer science. As CoderDojo Pomezia, we prepared a number of activities to encourage students’ interest in computational thinking and robotics, and to improve their skills. In recent years, we have held several workshops for primary school students. The workshops have involved activities such as programming robotics kits, using robotics with six-year-olds, programming videogames, modelling 3D objects. The activities always have a hands-on approach. Over 100 primary schoolers have participated in the workshops. We have also held workshops to train teachers to introduce these technical skills in their classrooms. This paper presents the work of CoderDojo Pomezia to train children and demonstrate how students have improved their technical and social skills.
RoboCup@Home Education: A New Format for Educational Competitions
Authors: Iocchi Luca , Tan Jeffrey Too Chuan , Castro Sebastian
Published: December 2021

In this paper we describe a novel methodology for holding educational robot competitions that has been developed within the RoboCup@Home Educational initiative. The methodology is based on two main elements: (1) a workshop + competition format where teaching material is interwoven with competitive tasks; (2) a team-centered approach, where rules and teaching material are tailored to participant teams to maximize the educational experience for students. The results and lessons learned after more than five years of organizing these competitions are also discussed in this paper.
European Recommendations on Robotics and Related Issues in Education in Different Countries
Authors: Todino Michele Domenico , De Simone Giuseppe , Kidiamboko Simon , Di Tore Stefano
Published: December 2021

This short paper describes the preliminary phase in an innovative line of research comparing educational robotics in Italy and other countries, from the perspective of media education, and based on the European Parliament recommendations to the Commission on civil law rules on robotics. More specifically, all decision processes that affect digital citizenship should have the support of children and teenagers. For these reasons, this paper looks at the work of a group of Italian high school students in the fifth year of upper secondary school, who formulated a SWOT analysis to highlight their attitudes to robotics issues in relation to the European Union recommendations. This research started in 2018 and will be repeated this academic year with Italian and Congolese students—from the Institut Supérieur des Techniques Appliquées—with a qualitative analysis to establish student attitudes to robotics issues. Qualitative analysis was selected because the SWOT analysis is already divided into information categories, revealing a variety of concepts that are grouped together from the collected data. These results will be compared with any obtained in future years in Italy and other countries, to find further potential patterns.
Innovative Spaces at School. How Innovative Spaces and the Learning Environment Condition the Transformation of Teaching
Authors: Nulli Giovanni , Mondaini Gianluigi , Ferretti Maddalena
Published: December 2021

This paper introduces the contributions to Track C1 of the symposium, which explored the link between architectural space and learning processes, while trying to outline their connection and mutual influence. The paper also aims to outline major trends and innovative approaches in the field of school design. Specifically, it refers to the relationship between the architecture of school, the users’ spatial perception, and the capacity to increase learning skills through the experience of comfort and quality spaces. Also, the relationship with the urban structure is investigated as a crucial aspect of school architecture.
Landscapes of Knowledge and Innovative Learning Experiences
Authors: Faiferri Massimo , Bartocci Samanta
Published: December 2021

In these historic times, when there is a crucial shift in the way we consider the cultural and architectural aspects of learning spaces, it is important to investigate the role this spatial resource plays in the urban context. This, so we can understand the need to break with the outdated ideas about school that are deeply rooted in our society. There is common ground between architecture and pedagogy, a possible dialogue between space and knowledge, which can generate new explorations into the ordinary meaning of educational spaces and landscapes of knowledge, as a chance to expand the concept of inhabiting a space and how that impacts the world, and to devise a new urban condition. By first considering cities as a broad, extended learning space, we provide a chance and an incentive to reflect on the role of spatial design. The city is an important educational tool, since it represents a space of discovery, growth, socialization, tension, conflict and adventure. It is also where autonomy, adaptive intelligence and relational skills are developed. A new relationship between school and the city defines the future of learning and civilized co-existence.
Adaptive Environments. New Spaces for Learning
Authors: Mondaini Gianluigi , Rosciani Marco
Published: December 2021

The architecture of schools can no longer be as rigid as it has been in the past. It needs to be spatially open, stimulating and, through its physical qualities, able to react and adapt to those who live and work there to use it as an active educational tool. However, architecture by itself is not enough to define new spatial models for education or for our society and its ever more complex problems. Thus, a plurality of forms of disciplinary participation is necessary. Pedagogy, with its close relationship with architecture, and technology, with the innovations it brings to teaching methods, are also involved. The dynamism in communication processes and educational practices that arises from new technologies demands a review of how school environments are organized, along with flexible, multifunctional and adaptable solutions for them. The most interesting models are those in which the conventional classroom “breaks down” physically, in favor of open-space learning environments, and flexible spaces. Such layouts help promote skills acquisition, thanks to the synergy between the technological elements and the physical qualities of the spaces that make learning more engaging.
Makers in Education: Teaching is a Hacking Stuff
Authors: Aprile Domenico
Published: December 2021

Several changes and challenges affect contemporary society: public administration, business, society at large. The lowest common denominator is digitization through IT tools. And what about school systems? Do they play a decisive role in enabling the skills needed to these challenges? We send our children to school to prepare them for a fast-changing world. But have our schools (and teachers) changed in the last 100 years? Modern teachers are being asked to change their teaching and learning practices, and to implement methodologies (including the use of IT tools) and make way for new teaching practices.
Facial Recognition and Privacy Rights
Authors: Smith Marcus , Miller Seumas
Published: December 2021

Biometric facial recognition is one of the most rapidly developing methods of biometric identification, with expanding applications across law enforcement, government and the private sector. Its capacity for integration with other technologies, such as closed circuit television (CCTV) and social media, differentiate it from DNA and fingerprint biometric identification. This chapter commences with a discussion of the technique of facial recognition and applications in identity verification, public surveillance, and the identification of unknown suspects. Its relative advantages and disadvantages, and the development of facial recognition around the world is explored. The discussion then examines how facial recognition databases developed from existing databases, such as driver’s licence photographs, can be integrated with CCTV systems, and most recently, with photographs from social media and the internet. The chapter then considers relevant ethical principles, including privacy, autonomy, security and public safety, and the implications for law and regulation in relation to facial recognition.
1-form symmetry, isolated $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 2 SCFTs, and Calabi-Yau threefolds
Authors: Buican Matthew , Jiang Hongliang
Published: December 2021

Abstract

We systematically study 4D $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 2 superconformal field theories (SCFTs) that can be constructed via type IIB string theory on isolated hypersurface singularities (IHSs) embedded in ℂ4. We show that if a theory in this class has no $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 2-preserving exactly marginal deformation (i.e., the theory is isolated as an $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 2 SCFT), then it has no 1-form symmetry. This situation is somewhat reminiscent of 1-form symmetry and decomposition in 2D quantum field theory. Moreover, our result suggests that, for theories arising from IHSs, 1-form symmetries originate from gauge groups (with vanishing beta functions). One corollary of our discussion is that there is no 1-form symmetry in IHS theories that have all Coulomb branch chiral ring generators of scaling dimension less than two. In terms of the a and c central charges, this condition implies that IHS theories satisfying $$ a<\frac{1}{24}\left(15r+2f\right) $$
a
<

1
24

15
r
+
2
f

and $$ c<\frac{1}{6}\left(3r+f\right) $$
c
<

1
6

3
r
+
f

(where r is the complex dimension of the Coulomb branch, and f is the rank of the continuous 0-form flavor symmetry) have no 1-form symmetry. After reviewing the 1-form symmetries of other classes of theories, we are motivated to conjecture that general interacting 4D $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 2 SCFTs with all Coulomb branch chiral ring generators of dimension less than two have no 1-form symmetry.
BSM master formula for ε′/ε in the WET basis at NLO in QCD
Authors: Aebischer Jason , Bobeth Christoph , Buras Andrzej J. , Kumar Jacky
Published: December 2021

Abstract

As an important step towards a complete next-to-leading (NLO) QCD analysis of the ratio ε′/ε within the Standard Model Effective Field Theory (SMEFT), we present for the first time the NLO master formula for the BSM part of this ratio expressed in terms of the Wilson coefficients of all contributing operators evaluated at the electroweak scale. To this end we use the common Weak Effective Theory (WET) basis (the so-called JMS basis) for which tree-level and one-loop matching to the SMEFT are already known. The relevant hadronic matrix elements of BSM operators at the electroweak scale are taken from Dual QCD approach and the SM ones from lattice QCD. It includes the renormalization group evolution and quark-flavour threshold effects at NLO in QCD from hadronic scales, at which these matrix elements have been calculated, to the electroweak scale.
Euclidean D-branes in type IIB string theory on Calabi-Yau threefolds
Authors: Alexandrov Sergei , Sen Ashoke , Stefański Bogdan
Published: December 2021

Abstract

We compute the contribution of Euclidean D-branes in type IIB string theory on Calabi-Yau threefolds to the metric on the hypermultiplet moduli space in the large volume, weak coupling limit. Our results are in perfect agreement with the predictions based on S-duality, mirror symmetry and supersymmetry.
Charge algebra for non-abelian large gauge symmetries at O(r)
Authors: Campiglia Miguel , Peraza Javier
Published: December 2021

Abstract

Asymptotic symmetries of gauge theories are known to encode infrared properties of radiative fields. In the context of tree-level Yang-Mills theory, the leading soft behavior of gluons is captured by large gauge symmetries with parameters that are O(1) in the large r expansion towards null infinity. This relation can be extended to subleading order provided one allows for large gauge symmetries with O(r) gauge parameters. The latter, however, violate standard asymptotic field fall-offs and thus their interpretation has remained incomplete. We improve on this situation by presenting a relaxation of the standard asymptotic field behavior that is compatible with O(r) gauge symmetries at linearized level. We show the extended space admits a symplectic structure on which O(1) and O(r) charges are well defined and such that their Poisson brackets reproduce the corresponding symmetry algebra.
Mechanistic modeling of cutting forces in high-speed microturning of titanium alloy with consideration of nose radius
Authors: Aslantas Kubilay , Ülker Şükrü , Şahan Ömer , Pimenov Danil Yu , Giasin Khaled
Published: December 2021

Microturning is a micromechanical machining process used to produce microcylindrical or axially symmetrical parts. Microcylindrical parts are mainly used in microfluidic systems, intravenous micromotors, microsurgical applications, optical lens applications, and microinjection systems. The workpiece diameter is very small in microturning and therefore is greatly affected by the cutting forces. For this reason, it is important to predict the cutting forces when machining miniature parts. In this study, an analytical mechanistic model of microturning is used to predict the cutting forces considering the tool nose radius. In the semi-empirically developed mechanistic model, the tool radius was considered. A series of semi-orthogonal microturning cutting tests were carried out to determine the cutting and edge force coefficients. The mechanistic model was generalized depending on the cutting speed and depth of cut by performing multilinear regression analysis. In the study, the depth of cut (ap = 30–90 µm) and feed values (f = 0.5–20 µm/rev) were selected considering the nose radius and edge radius of the cutting tool. The experiments were carried out under high-cutting speeds (Vc = 150–500 m/min) and microcutting conditions. Ti6Al4V alloy was used as the workpiece material and the tests were carried out under dry cutting conditions. Validation tests for different cutting parameters were carried out to validate the accuracy of the developed mechanistic model. The results showed that the difference between the mechanistic model and the experimental data was a minimum of 3% and a maximum of 24%. The maximum difference between the experimental and the model usually occurs in forces in the tangential direction. It has been observed that the developed model gives accurate results even at a depth of cut smaller than the nose radius and at feed values smaller than the edge radius.
The institutional evolution of central banks
Authors: Prieto Pablo Paniagua
Published: December 2021

This article contributes to the literature on central banks’ institutional rationale and evolution by analyzing the early development of the Bank of England as a case study. The history of the Bank is scrutinized under the framework of entangled political economy, revealing its origins in a process of bank and political bargains. The account clarifies the process by which the political and economic order becomes increasingly intertwined throughout the banking system, via political bargains under incomplete contracts. The analysis suggests that entanglement allows governments and non-profit organizations to transmit some of their features to banking organizations in exchange for financial benefits. Transmitting nonmarket characteristics through recurrent bargains leads a for-profit bank to gradually transform into a central bank. The article proposes an alternative rationale for the unintended emergence of central banks, providing evidence in favor of their politically oriented development, rather than their alleged intrinsic nature.
Die Telefonseelsorge Österreich – Telefonisches und digitales Krisenmanagement: Entwicklungslinien und Trends
Authors: Schadenhofer Petra , Stummer Harald , Curth Lina M.
Published: December 2021

Der Notruf 142 der Telefonseelsorge (TS) spielt eine bedeutende Rolle im Feld der Krisenhotlines. Alle in Österreich lebenden Personen erhalten bei Bedarf eine niederschwellig zugängliche, kostenlose und vertrauliche Krisenintervention. Das rund um die Uhr erreichbare Angebot der TS umfasst Beratungs- und Entlastungsgespräche, stabilisierende Begleitung in schwierigen Lebenssituationen, Klärung des psychosozialen Bedarfes und Krisenintervention mit dem speziellen Schwerpunkt Suizidprävention (24/7).

Eine aktuelle Studie (n = 374) während der Sars-CoV2-Pandemie zeigte die Relevanz der TS und die Themenverteilungen der Beratungen auf – nämlich Einsamkeit, psychisches Wohlbefinden, Berufsleben, Abhängigkeitserkrankungen, Sinnempfinden, Suizid und Gewalt. Im Jahr 2020 ergaben sich in Österreich etwa 153.000 Kontakte, davon etwa 96 % per Telefon und je etwa zwei Prozent per E‑Mail und Chat (dies entspricht besonders in der Chatberatung einer Zunahme um 300 %, wobei der Chat noch nicht ganztägig besetzt ist).

Der vorliegende Artikel beleuchtet (a) die Bedeutung der Niederschwelligkeit, Kostenfreiheit, Vertraulichkeit und der regionalen Vernetzung der Telefonseelsorge und (b) die Entwicklungstrends der Beratung durch die und in den digitalen Medien. Dabei zeigen sich Veränderungen hinsichtlich der Altersgruppen der Nutzer_innen und Beratungsthemen je nach verwendetem Medium.
A Nationwide Study of GATA2 Deficiency in Norway—the Majority of Patients Have Undergone Allo-HSCT
Authors: Jørgensen Silje F. , Buechner Jochen , Myhre Anders E. , Galteland Eivind , Spetalen Signe , Kulseth Mari Ann , Sorte Hanne S. , Holla Øystein L. , Lundman Emma , Alme Charlotte , Heier Ingvild , Flægstad Trond , Fløisand Yngvar , Benneche Andreas , Fevang Børre , Aukrust Pål , Stray-Pedersen Asbjørg , Gedde-Dahl Tobias , Nordøy Ingvild
Published: December 2021

Purpose

GATA2 deficiency is a rare primary immunodeficiency that has become increasingly recognized due to improved molecular diagnostics and clinical awareness. The only cure for GATA2 deficiency is allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT). The inconsistency of genotype–phenotype correlations makes the decision regarding “who and when” to transplant challenging. Despite considerable morbidity and mortality, the reported proportion of patients with GATA2 deficiency that has undergone allo-HSCT is low (~ 35%). The purpose of this study was to explore if detailed clinical, genetic, and bone marrow characteristics could predict end-point outcome, i.e., death and allo-HSCT.

Methods

All medical genetics departments in Norway were contacted to identify GATA2 deficient individuals. Clinical information, genetic variants, treatment, and outcome were subsequently retrieved from the patients’ medical records.

Results

Between 2013 and 2020, we identified 10 index cases or probands, four additional symptomatic patients, and no asymptomatic patients with germlineGATA2variants. These patients had a diverse clinical phenotype dominated by cytopenia (13/14), myeloid neoplasia (10/14), warts (8/14), and hearing loss (7/14). No valid genotype–phenotype correlations were found in our data set, and the phenotypes varied also within families. We found that 11/14 patients (79%), with known GATA2 deficiency, had already undergone allo-HSCT. In addition, one patient is awaiting allo-HSCT. The indications to perform allo-HSCT were myeloid neoplasia, disseminated viral infection, severe obliterating bronchiolitis, and/or HPV-associated in situ carcinoma. Two patients died, 8 months and 7 years after allo-HSCT, respectively.

Conclusion

Our main conclusion is that the majority of patients with symptomatic GATA2 deficiency will need allo-HSCT, and a close surveillance of these patients is important to find the “optimal window” for allo-HSCT. We advocate a more offensive approach to allo-HSCT than previously described.
Symmetric Shannon capacity is the independence number minus 1
Authors: Terpai Tamás
Published: December 2021

A symmetric variant of the Shannon capacity of graphs is defined and computed.