bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Introgression between Betula tianshanica and Betula microphylla and its implications for conservation
Authors: Ding Junyi , Hua Donglai , Borrell James S. , Buggs Richard J. A. , Wang Luwei , Wang Feifei , Li Zheng , Wang Nian
Published: February 2021

Societal Impact Statement

In rapidly changing environments species conservation can be hindered by uncertainties in distinguishing closely related species. Cryptic ongoing hybridization can add further uncertainty and could be beneficial or destructive. Here, we show that a declining birch tree species is hybridizing with a more widespread relative in the Junggar basin, NW China, and their hybrids have been previously named as rare sub‐species. Given the declining numbers of this birch tree, we suggest that conservation effort should aim to slow the rate of anthropogenic habitat loss at this hybrid zone and preserve its pure populations away from the hybrid zone.

In areas where closely related species meet, the possibility that they may hybridize must be taken into account by conservationists. Hybridization may have positive or negative consequences for the long‐term future of species. If present, its dynamics need to be understood.

Betula microphylla is a declining wetland tree species in NW China that forms a continuum of leaf morphology and geographic distribution with its relative Betula tianshanica. We use ecological niche models to predict the distribution of B. microphylla and B. tianshanica. We use restriction site‐associated DNA sequencing and SSRs to resolve their genetic structure and patterns of allele sharing.

Ecological niche models predict an expansion of the range of B. tianshanica into that of B. microphylla since the Last Glacial Maximum and the contraction of B. microphylla's range in the future. Genetic data suggest that the two species have hybridized in the Junggar basin and in the Tianshan Mountains where the two species have co‐occurred in the recent past and in the Altay Mountains where there are no records of B. tianshanica occurrence. Rare populations previously identified as sub‐species of B. microphylla were shown to be of hybrid origin.

Further research is needed on the costs and benefits of hybridization between B. microphylla and B. tianshanica in the changing environment of NW China. Our current data suggest that conservation effort should aim to slow the rate of anthropogenic habitat loss at the hybrid zone in the Junggar basin and preserve pure populations far away from the hybrid zone in the Altay Mountains.
Influence of Particle Size and Temperature on the Burning Rate of Small Caliber Ball Powder
Authors: Ritter John J. , Petre Catalin‐Florin , Beland Pascal , Nicole Charles
Published: February 2021

The performance of a small‐caliber propellant is influenced by many factors. Foremost is the chemical composition, however, other factors such as the physical properties of the propellant, the weapon system, and the operating conditions can also greatly influence the performance of a propellant. In this study, researchers investigated the influence of particle size and temperature on the performance of small caliber, ball powder propellant. Particle size is important as it provides the initial surface area available for a propellant to begin the deflagration process. The geometry of the grain will dictate how the deflagration progresses: progressively, regressively, or neutral. The initial temperature of the propellant also has a direct influence on propellant performance. Evaluations were conducted in a constant volume, a temperature‐controlled closed vessel to obtain pressure‐time data for the various experiments. The data coupled with the propellant thermochemical properties were used to calculate the burning rate coefficient (β) and pressure exponent (α) of the propellant. Dynamic vivacity, relative force, and relative quickness values are also reported.
Challenges of using protein antibiotics for pathogen control
Authors: Chai Ray , Rooney William M , Milner Joel J , Walker Daniel
Published: February 2021

Bacterial phytopathogens represent a significant threat to many economically important crops. Current control measures often inflict harm on the environment and may ultimately impact on human health through the spread of antibiotic resistance. Antimicrobial proteins such as bacteriocins have been suggested as the next generation of disease control agents since they are able to specifically target the pathogen of interest with minimal impact on the wider microbial community and environment. However, substantial gaps in knowledge with regards to the efficacy and application of bacteriocins to combat phytopathogenic bacteria remain. Here we highlight the immediate challenges the community must address to ensure maximum exploitation of antimicrobial proteins in the field. © 2021 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Image‐guided robots for low dose rate prostate brachytherapy: Perspectives on safety in design and use
Authors: Dai Xuesong , Zhang Yongde , Jiang Jingang , Li Bing
Published: February 2021

Background

Image‐guided brachytherapy (BT) robots can be used to assist urologists during seed implantation, thereby improving therapeutic effects. However, safety issues must be considered in the design of such robots, including their structure, mechanical movements, function, materials and actuators. Previous reviews focused on image‐guided prostate BT robot technology (e.g., imaging and robot navigation technology and robot system introduction); however, this review is the first time that safety issues have been investigated as part of a study on low‐dose‐rate (LDR) prostate BT robots.

Methods

Multiple electronic databases were searched for LDR prostate BT robot articles published during the last 24 years (1996–2020), with a particular focus on two aspects of robots: safety in design and use.

Results

We retrieved a total of 26 LDR prostate BT robots. BT robots were divided into ultrasound, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging and fusion‐guided systems. The conditions associated with each system were then analysed to develop a set of requirements for the safety of prostate BT robots. Recommendations are also provided for future BT robot development.

Conclusions

The transrectal approach for prostate seed implantation is safer than the traditional transperineal approach. Research into the control of a steerable needle by the urologists and robot, the needle deflection model, and robotic automated needle changing and seed injection equipment should be pursued in a future study.
Reference input and hysteresis quantizer based triggered control for networked control systems over limited channels
Authors: Zhou Tianwei , Zuo Zhiqiang , Wang Yijing , Zhang Zhicheng , Chang Shaoping
Published: February 2021

In this article, we formulate a framework for the networked control systems over limited channels with a novel reference input and hysteresis quantizer based triggered control (RIHQBTC) method. Both hysteresis quantization and the network induced delay are considered and the finite‐gain stability is analyzed. By thoroughly exploring the structure of the hysteresis quantizer, we merge the hysteresis quantizer parameter with the reference input to construct the triggering condition. To compensate for the negative effect caused by the network induced delay, three kinds of local controllers are designed to connect the transformed controller with the original one. Moreover, the corresponding coders and decoders are proposed to bound the transmission bit rates. With this RIHQBTC method, it is proved that Zeno behavior could be intrinsically eliminated. The superiority of the proposed method is demonstrated by a numerical example and its efficiency is further verified on the wheeled mobile robot.
The first‐order Markov conditional linear expectation approach for analysis of longitudinal data
Authors: Bender Shaun , Gamerman Victoria , Reese Peter P. , Gray Daniel Lloyd , Li Yimei , Shults Justine
Published: February 2021

We consider longitudinal discrete data that may be unequally spaced in time and may exhibit overdispersion, so that the variance of the outcome variable is inflated relative to its assumed distribution. We implement an approach that extends generalized linear models for analysis of longitudinal data and is likelihood based, in contrast to generalized estimating equations (GEE) that are semiparametric. The method assumes independence between subjects; first‐order antedependence within subjects; exponential family distributions for the first outcome on each subject and for the subsequent conditional distributions; and linearity of the expectations of the conditional distributions. We demonstrate application of the method in an analysis of seizure counts and in a study to evaluate the performance of transplant centers. Simulations for both studies demonstrate the benefits of the proposed likelihood based approach; however, they also demonstrate better than anticipated performance for GEE.
PdII Dispersed on Magnetic Partially Reduced GO/OMWCNT Non‐Covalently Modified with a Vic‐Dioxime: An Efficient and Magnetically Retrievable Catalyst for Suzuki‐Miyaura Coupling Reaction
Authors: Shariatipour Monire , Heydari Akbar
Published: February 2021

In the present study, a novel and magnetically separable Pd−catalyst system was designed using the immobilization of PdII on Phendioxime(PDO)‐functionalized magnetic partially reduced (GO‐OMWCNT) composite (MPR (GO‐OMWCNT)/PDO/PdII). In the as‐obtained nanocomposites, the incorporation of 1D OMWCNTs and 2D graphene oxide can form a versatile 3D network with high specific surface area and synergic properties. Moreover, non‐ covalent phendioxime functionalization provides highly effective functional groups on the surface of MPR (GO‐OMWCNT) for PdII. Non‐covalent interaction carries out through π‐π stacking and hydrogen bond interactions .The catalytic activity of this nanocomposite was examined in the Suzuki–Miyaura cross‐coupling reaction. MPR (GO‐OMWCNT)/PDO/PdII composite exhibited good catalytic efficiency and obtained the products in good to excellent yield under mild aerobic conditions. Moreover, the suggested catalyst could be easily recovered magnetically and used for at least six runs without a noticeable decrease in its catalytic activity.
On the uniform concentration bounds and large sample properties of clustering with Bregman divergences
Authors: Paul Debolina , Chakraborty Saptarshi , Das Swagatam
Published: February 2021

Clustering with Bregman divergence has been used in literature to unify centroid‐based parametric clustering approaches and to allow the detection of nonspherical clusters within the data. Although empirically useful, the large sample theoretical aspects of Bregman clustering techniques remain largely unexplored. In this paper, we attempt to bridge the gap between the theory and practice of centroid‐based Bregman hard clustering by providing uniform deviation bounds on the clustering objective. Our theoretical analysis relies on the famous Vapnik–Chervonenkis (VC) theory, which, although has been extensively used in a supervised learning context, remains largely unexplored in finding empirical risks for unsupervised learning scenarios. As opposed to most of the theoretical works on clustering, our framework allows the number of features (p) to vary with the number of observations (n). The strong consistency of the sample cluster centroids, under standard assumptions in the literature, also follows as a corollary under this general framework. Furthermore, we show that the rate of convergence is at most of the order
, under the standard regularity conditions.
A Local Analgesic, Lidocaine, Did Not Affect Short‐Term Welfare during Electroanesthesia of a Teleost Fish
Authors: Reid Connor H. , Abrams Alice E. I. , Zolderdo Aaron J. , Midwood Jonathan D. , Don Stevens E. , Moon Thomas W. , Cooke Steven J.
Published: February 2021

In recent decades, fisheries research has benefited from the use of various forms of electroimmobilization to facilitate fish handling through rapid induction and recovery times, capacity to allow immediate release, and other advantages not shared by pharmaceuticals. However, as electroimmobilization becomes increasingly prevalent, it is expected that animal care committees may require electroimmobilized fish to also receive chemical anesthetics or analgesics. We experimentally investigated whether the administration of lidocaine (a local analgesic at ~ 1 mg/kg body mass) to electroanesthetized fish resulted in any welfare‐relevant differences in the behavior and physiology of Largemouth Bass Micropterus salmoides during and after standardized intracoelomic tag implantation surgeries relative to a group that received a saline sham. We also used multiple control treatments to examine potential behavioral and physiological effects of handling, electroanesthesia, surgery, and the drug administration process. We quantified voluntary movements on the surgery table, ventilation rates after surgery, reflexes, and emergence/exploration in a behavioral arena. Primary and secondary stress biomarkers also were used to evaluate physiological stress over a 2‐h period postsurgery. The administration of lidocaine at the tested dose did not facilitate fish handling during surgery and did not affect changes in the physiological stress response relative to the saline control. Swimming activity postsurgery was lower in fish treated with lidocaine; however, other differences in behavior were negligible. Electroanesthesia alone was able to sufficiently facilitate the surgical procedures by limiting voluntary escape attempts without significantly exacerbating physiological stress from handling. There does not appear to be any advantage to adding lidocaine to the protocol.
First‐trimester diagnosis of congenital cytomegalovirus infection after maternal primary infection in early pregnancy: feasibility study of viral genome amplification by PCR on chorionic villi obtained by CVS
Authors: Faure‐Bardon V. , Fourgeaud J. , Guilleminot T. , Magny J.‐F. , Salomon L. J. , Bernard J.‐P. , Leruez‐Ville M. , Ville Y.
Published: February 2021

Objective

To evaluate the feasibility of amplification of the viral genome by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis of trophoblast samples obtained by chorionic villus sampling (CVS) in cases of maternal primary infection (MPI) with cytomegalovirus (CMV) in early pregnancy.

Methods

This was a prospective study carried out at the Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, Hopital Necker‐E.M., between October 2019 and October 2020. Following CMV serology screening in early pregnancy, CVS was offered to women at 11–14 weeks' gestation after CMV‐MPI ≤ 10 weeks. Array‐comparative genomic hybridization and amplification of the viral genome by PCR were performed on the trophoblasts obtained by CVS. All cases also underwent amniocentesis from 17 weeks onwards and PCR was performed on the amniotic fluid. Secondary prevention with valacyclovir was initiated as soon as MPI was diagnosed, to decrease the risk of vertical transmission. We evaluated the diagnostic performance of CMV‐PCR of trophoblast obtained by CVS, using as the reference standard PCR of amniotic fluid obtained by amniocentesis.

Results

CVS was performed in 37 pregnancies, at a median (range) gestational age of 12.7 (11.3–14.4) weeks. CMV‐PCR in chorionic villi was positive in three and negative in 34 cases. CMV‐PCR following amniocentesis, performed at a median (range) gestational age of 17.6 (16.7–29.9) weeks, was positive for the three cases which were positive following CVS and, of the 34 patients with a negative finding following CVS, amniocentesis was negative in 31 and positive in three. The sensitivity of CMV‐PCR analysis of trophoblast obtained by CVS for the diagnosis of CMV, using as the reference standard PCR analysis of amniotic fluid obtained by amniocentesis, was 50% (95% CI, 19–81%), specificity was 100% (95% CI, 89–100%), positive predictive value was 100% (95% CI, 44–100%) and negative predictive value was 91% (95% CI, 77–97%).

Conclusions

Diagnosis of placental infection following MPI in early pregnancy can be achieved by PCR amplification of the CMV genome in chorionic villi. We propose that negative CMV‐PCR in the trophoblast after 12 weeks could be used to exclude CMV‐related embryopathy leading to sequelae. However, this needs to be confirmed through long‐term follow‐up evaluation. These findings could help to establish CVS as the diagnostic test of choice following maternal serology screening in early pregnancy. © 2021 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Super-Hawking radiation
Authors: Ferreira Ricardo Z. , Heissenberg Carlo
Published: February 2021

Abstract

We discuss modifications to the Hawking spectrum that arise when the asymptotic states are supertranslated or superrotated. For supertranslations we find nontrivial off-diagonal phases in the two-point correlator although the emission spectrum is eventually left unchanged, as previously pointed out in the literature. In contrast, superrotations give rise to modifications which manifest themselves in the emission spectrum and depend nontrivially on the associated conformal factor at future null infinity. We study Lorentz boosts and a class of superrotations whose conformal factors do not depend on the azimuthal angle on the celestial sphere and whose singularities at the north and south poles have been associated to the presence of a cosmic string. In spite of such singularities, superrotations still lead to finite spectral emission rates of particles and energy which display a distinctive power-law behavior at high frequencies for each angular momentum state. The integrated particle emission rate and emitted power, on the contrary, while finite for boosts, do exhibit ultraviolet divergences for superrotations, between logarithmic and quadratic. Such divergences can be ascribed to modes with support along the cosmic string. In the logarithimic case, corresponding to a superrotation which covers the sphere twice, the total power emitted still presents the Stefan-Boltzmann form but with an effective area which diverges logarithmically in the ultraviolet.
Gastrointestinal epithelial innate immunity—regionalization and organoids as new model
Authors: Kayisoglu Özge , Schlegel Nicolas , Bartfeld Sina
Published: February 2021

The human gastrointestinal tract is in constant contact with microbial stimuli. Its barriers have to ensure co-existence with the commensal bacteria, while enabling surveillance of intruding pathogens. At the centre of the interaction lies the epithelial layer, which marks the boundaries of the body. It is equipped with a multitude of different innate immune sensors, such as Toll-like receptors, to mount inflammatory responses to microbes. Dysfunction of this intricate system results in inflammation-associated pathologies, such as inflammatory bowel disease. However, the complexity of the cellular interactions, their molecular basis and their development remains poorly understood. In recent years, stem cell–derived organoids have gained increasing attention as promising models for both development and a broad range of pathologies, including infectious diseases. In addition, organoids enable the study of epithelial innate immunity in vitro. In this review, we focus on the gastrointestinal epithelial barrier and its regional organization to discuss innate immune sensing and development.
Singular orbits and Baker domains
Authors: Rempe Lasse
Published: February 2021

We show that there is a transcendental meromorphic function with an invariant Baker domain U such that every singular value of f is a super-attracting periodic point. This answers a question of Bergweiler from 1993. We also show that U can be chosen to contain arbitrarily large round annuli, centred at zero, of definite modulus. This answers a question of Mihaljević and the author from 2013, and complements recent work of Barański et al concerning this question.
IL-36γ-armed oncolytic virus exerts superior efficacy through induction of potent adaptive antitumor immunity
Authors: Yang Min , Giehl Esther , Feng Chao , Feist Mathilde , Chen Hongqi , Dai Enyong , Liu Zuqiang , Ma Congrong , Ravindranathan Roshni , Bartlett David L. , Lu Binfeng , Guo Zong Sheng
Published: February 2021

In this study, we aimed to apply the cytokine IL-36γto cancer immunotherapy by constructing new oncolytic vaccinia viruses (OV) expressing interleukin-36γ(IL-36γ-OVs), leveraging unique synergism between OV and IL-36γ’s ability to promote antitumor adaptive immunity and modulate tumor microenvironment (TME). IL-36γ-OV had dramatic therapeutic efficacies in multiple murine tumor models, frequently leading to complete cancer eradication in large fractions of mice. Mechanistically, IL-36-γ-armed OV induced infiltration of lymphocytes and dendritic cells, decreased myeloid-derived suppressor cells and M2-like tumor-associated macrophages, and T cell differentiation into effector cells. Further study showed that IL-36γ-OV increased the number of tumor antigen-specific CD4+and CD8+T cells and the therapeutic efficacy depended on both CD8+and CD4+T cells. These results demonstrate that these IL36γ-armed OVs exert potent therapeutic efficacy mainly though antitumor immunity and they may hold great potential to advance treatment in human cancer patients.
Staging Paradox and Discrepancy in Adjuvant Chemotherapy in Patients with T4N0, T1‐2N1, and T3N1 Colon Cancer
Authors: Shimizu Hiroki , Kuriu Yoshiaki , Arita Tomohiro , Kiuchi Jun , Yamamoto Yusuke , Konishi Hirotaka , Morimura Ryo , Shiozaki Atsushi , Ikoma Hisashi , Kubota Takeshi , Fujiwara Hitoshi , Okamoto Kazuma , Otsuji Eigo
Published: February 2021

Background

A survival paradox between T4N0 (stage IIB/C) and T3N1 (stage IIIB) colon cancer has been rarely reported. The indication and regimen of adjuvant chemotherapy are separately described in the guidelines. This study aimed to elucidate the prognostic factors and investigate proper adjuvant treatment in colon cancer patients at these stages.

Methods

Patients who underwent R0 resection for pathological T4N0 (n = 49), T1‐2N1 (n = 31), or T3N1 (n = 82) colon cancer between 2008 and 2016 at a single institute were retrospectively reviewed. The clinicopathological characteristics, status of adjuvant chemotherapy, and oncologic outcomes of patients with T4N0 tumors were compared with those of patients with T1‐2N1 and T3N1 tumors.

Results

The biological characteristics of T4N0 tumors were more aggressive compared with the characteristics of T1‐2N1 tumors and were similar to those of T3N1 tumors. The usage rate of oxaliplatin as an adjuvant chemotherapy was significantly lower in T4N0 patients than in T1‐2N1 and T3N1 patients. The rate of local recurrence was the highest in patients with T4N0 tumors, and the survival outcomes for patients with T4N0 tumors were significantly worse compared with those of T1‐2N1 patients and were similar to those of T3N1 patients. A multivariate analysis revealed that lack of adequate use of oxaliplatin for adjuvant chemotherapy was the only prognostic factor.

Conclusions

T4N0 colon cancer had similar oncological characteristics and survival outcomes to T3N1 colon cancer. Systematic adjuvant chemotherapy, including oxaliplatin, should be incorporated into the therapy for T4N0 patients as well as T3N1 patients.
Models for the difference of continuous covariance functions
Authors: Posa Donato
Published: February 2021

A linear combination, with negative weights, of two continuous covariance functions has been analyzed by a few authors just for special cases and only in the real domain. However, a covariance is a complex valued function: for this reason, the general problem concerning the difference of two covariance functions in the complex domain needs to be analyzed, while it does not yet seem to have been addressed in the literature; hence, exploring the conditions such that the difference of two covariance functions is again a covariance function can be considered a further property. Therefore, this paper yields a contribution to the theory of correlation, hence the results cannot be restricted to the particular field of application. Starting from the difference of two complex covariance functions defined in one dimensional Euclidean space, wide families of models for the difference of two complex covariance functions can be built in any dimensional space, utilizing some well known properties. In particular, the difference of two real covariance functions has been considered; moreover, the difference between some special isotropic covariance functions has also been analyzed. A detailed analysis of the parameters of the models involved has been proposed; this kind of analysis opens a gate for modeling, in any dimensional space, the correlation structure of a peculiar class of complex valued random fields, as well as the subset of real valued random fields. Some relevant hints about how to construct the subset of real covariance functions characterized by negative values have also been given.
Analysing the Feasibility of a Full-face Cutting Machine for the Robominers Project
Authors: Narimani Dehnavi Roohollah , Berner Michael
Published: February 2021

Several methods of excavation have previously been studied to choose the most suitable approach to be applied in the Robominers project. Compared to drilling and blasting and partial-face cutting, the full-face cutting option is regarded as one of the methods which can offer, among others, high advance rates and a safer working environment for the machinery. Current technologies of these methods, however, suffer from several limitations, such as the inability to bore very hard rocks, significant lack of geometrical flexibility in mine working areas, and low mobility due to large and heavy components. In this study, two of the most commonly applied small diameter full-face machines including the pipe jacking and the Boxhole Boring Machine (BBM) are studied with regards to their performance parameters. The pipe jacking machine option with a cutterhead consisting of disc cutters exhibits higher efficiency in excavation with only slightly lower production rates compared to a BBM with strawberry cutters. They are also much lighter machines. Yet, using the jacking concept means a limited driving length and does not apply to the Robominers. Therefore, the introduction of small gripper or shielded Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs) can significantly improve the mobility. Their application, however, requires considering the risks of jamming in difficult ground conditions and the possible requirements of a support installation. These rock mechanics issues need to be carefully considered in the design of such machines. In addition, further studies are required to employ assisted cutting methods in very hard rocks and to increase the geometrical flexibility of these machines by lowering their turning radius.
Development of a visual tool to assess six dimensions of health and its validation in patients with endocrine disorders
Authors: Fazekas Christian , Linder Dennis , Matzer Franziska , Vajda Christian , Avian Alexander , Theiler-Schwetz Verena , Trummer Christian , Došen Julia , Rokvic Jelena , Mohl Marco , Pilz Stefan
Published: February 2021

Background

Psychosocial factors significantly influence patient care in many fields of medicine, among these in the field of endocrinology. Easily applicable validated assessment tools for such psychosocial factors are lacking. Visual instruments may facilitate doctor-patient communication. This study describes the development and validation of a multidimensional visual tool for the self-assessment of health.

Methods

An expert panel performed the multistep development of the psychosomatic assessment health disc (PAHD). Assessment of face validity was performed by means of a focus group of medical doctors (n = 6) and patient interviews (n = 24). For determining test-retest reliability, internal consistency and construct validity, patients of an endocrine outpatient clinic in Graz, Austria, completed the PAHD and the following questionnaires: short-form 36 health survey, work ability index, Pittsburgh sleep quality index and the social life scales of the life satisfaction questionnaire.

Results

A numeric six-item analogue scale was developed in the form of a disc. It addresses the following aspects of health: physical well-being, social life, sexuality, mental well-being, sleep, working ability/performance. For the validation process, 177 patients (57.1% females) participated in the study. Correlation coefficients of the six items with other questionnaires ranged between r = 0.51 (social life) and r = 0.72 (sleep). Test-retest reliability was assessed among 98 patients and was ≥ 0.74 for all 6 items, while Cronbach’s alpha was 0.78.

Conclusion

The psychometric properties of the PAHD support its use in clinical encounters with patients suffering from endocrine disorders. Further validation studies may be required to extend its application to other fields of medicine.
Stereotactic biopsies of brainstem lesions: which approach?
Authors: Jaradat Amer , Nowacki Andreas , Fichtner Jens , Schlaeppi Janine-Ai , Pollo Claudio
Published: February 2021

Background

Stereotactic biopsies for brainstem lesions are frequently performed to yield an accurate diagnosis and help guide subsequent management. In this study, we summarize our experience with different stereotactic approaches to brainstem lesions of different locations and discuss possible implications for safety and diagnostic yield.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 23 adult patients who underwent a stereotactic biopsy for brainstem lesions between October 2011 and December 2019. Depending on the location supra- or infratentorial, trajectories were planned. We assessed the postoperative complications during the hospital stay as well as the diagnostic yield.

Results

A supratentorial transfrontal approach was used in 16 (70%) cases, predominantly for lesions in the midbrain, upper pons, and medulla oblongata. An infratentorial, transcerebellar-transpeduncular approach was used in 7 (30%) cases mainly for lesions within the lower pons. All biopsies were confirmed to represent pathological tissue and a definitive diagnosis was achieved in 21 cases (91%). Three patients (13%) had transient weakness in the contralateral part of the body in the immediate postoperative period, which improved spontaneously. There was no permanent morbidity or mortality in this series of patients.

Conclusion

Lesions of various locations within the brainstem can be successfully targeted via either a supratentorial transfrontal or an infratentorial transcerebellar transpeduncular approach. Our high diagnostic yield of over 90% and the low rate of complications underlines the diagnostic importance of this procedure in order to guide the medical management of these patients.
A GRL-compliant iStar extension for collaborative cyber-physical systems
Authors: Daun Marian , Brings Jennifer , Krajinski Lisa , Stenkova Viktoria , Bandyszak Torsten
Published: February 2021

Collaborative cyber-physical systems are capable of forming networks at runtime to achieve goals that are unachievable for individual systems. They do so by connecting to each other and exchanging information that helps them coordinate their behaviors to achieve shared goals. Their highly complex dependencies, however, are difficult to document using traditional goal modeling approaches. To help developers of collaborative cyber-physical systems leverage the advantages of goal modeling approaches, we developed a GRL-compliant extension to the popular iStar goal modeling language that takes the particularities of collaborative cyber-physical systems and their developers’ needs into account. In particular, our extension provides support for explicitly distinguishing between the goals of the individual collaborative cyber-physical systems and the network and for documenting various dependencies not only among the individual collaborative cyber-physical systems but also between the individual systems and the network. We provide abstract syntax, concrete syntax, and well-formedness rules for the extension. To illustrate the benefits of our extension for goal modeling of collaborative cyber-physical systems, we report on two case studies conducted in different industry domains.
The impact of the size of bone substitute granules on macrophage and osteoblast behaviors in vitro
Authors: Fujioka-Kobayashi Masako , Katagiri Hiroki , Kono Michihide , Schaller Benoit , Iizuka Tateyuki , Safi Ali-Farid
Published: February 2021

Objective

Bone substitute (BS) size might influence the clinical outcomes of guided bone regeneration (GBR) procedures. The aim of the present study was to investigate the influence of BS size on macrophage (Mφ) and osteoblast behaviors in vitro.

Materials and methods

Two different granule sizes (S and M/L) were assessed for four different commercial BSs: deproteinized bovine bone mineral (DBBM), biphasic calcium phosphate type 1 (BCP1), BCP type 2 (BCP2), and carbonate apatite (CO3Ap). The BSs were compared for their impacts on the cell viability and differentiation potential of THP-1-derived Mφs and human osteoblast-like Saos-2 cells.

Results

The smaller granules showed higher material volumes and surface areas than the larger granules. Significantly higher viability of Mφs and Saos-2 cells was observed with the DBBM_L-size granules than with the DBBM_S-size granules. Gene expression experiments in Mφs revealed few differences between the two sizes of each BS, although higher CD206 mRNA levels were observed in the BCP1_L group and the CO3Ap_M group than in the respective S-size groups on day 1. Only DBBM showed significantly higher mRNA levels of osteogenic markers, including Runx2 and osteocalcin, in Saos-2 cells in the S-size group than in the L-size group.

Conclusions

The S-size and L-size DBBM granules exhibited clear differences in cell outcomes: cells cultured on the S-size granules exhibited lower cell viability, higher osteopromotive ability, and no noticeable Mφ polarization changes.

Clinical relevance

A smaller granule size might be advantageous due to greater bone regeneration potential in the use of DBBM granules to treat defects.
Tracing the origins of SARS-COV-2 in coronavirus phylogenies: a review
Authors: Sallard Erwan , Halloy José , Casane Didier , Decroly Etienne , van Helden Jacques
Published: February 2021

SARS-CoV-2 is a new human coronavirus (CoV), which emerged in China in late 2019 and is responsible for the global COVID-19 pandemic that caused more than 97 million infections and 2 million deaths in 12 months. Understanding the origin of this virus is an important issue, and it is necessary to determine the mechanisms of viral dissemination in order to contain future epidemics. Based on phylogenetic inferences, sequence analysis and structure–function relationships of coronavirus proteins, informed by the knowledge currently available on the virus, we discuss the different scenarios on the origin—natural or synthetic—of the virus. The data currently available are not sufficient to firmly assert whether SARS-CoV2 results from a zoonotic emergence or from an accidental escape of a laboratory strain. This question needs to be solved because it has important consequences on the risk/benefit balance of our interactions with ecosystems, on intensive breeding of wild and domestic animals, on some laboratory practices and on scientific policy and biosafety regulations. Regardless of COVID-19 origin, studying the evolution of the molecular mechanisms involved in the emergence of pandemic viruses is essential to develop therapeutic and vaccine strategies and to prevent future zoonoses. This article is a translation and update of a French article published in Médecine/Sciences, August/September 2020 (10.1051/medsci/2020123).
The role of traditional knowledge policies in Egypt: the case of Wadi Allaqi
Authors: Kandal Hanaa A. , Swart Jac. A. A. , Yacoub Hoda A. , Gerkema Menno P.
Published: February 2021

Globally, traditional knowledge is at stake, notwithstanding intentions recorded in international policy conventions. Egypt has accepted and ratified several conventions on implementation of traditional knowledge in the fields of environment and sustainable development; yet this implementation is hampered by a lack of concrete plans. Focusing on the Bedouin community in the Southern Egypt protectorate of Wadi Allaqi, this paper investigates whether traditional knowledge plays a role in Egyptian policy, as reflected in policy documents and by interviews with regional stakeholders. We found that local actors of Wadi Allaqi protectorate-involved institutions appreciate the importance of traditional knowledge especially in environmental affairs. It can be concluded that a strengthened position of traditional knowledge in regulation and law should be supplemented by social measures and actions to overcome bureaucratic, geographical, and communicative barriers. Derived recommendations imply that the perspective of the Bedouin community should be taken into account.
How Quantum is Quantum Counterfactual Communication?
Authors: Hance Jonte R. , Ladyman James , Rarity John
Published: February 2021

Quantum Counterfactual Communication is the recently-proposed idea of using quantum physics to send messages between two parties, without any matter/energy transfer associated with the bits sent. While this has excited massive interest, both for potential ‘unhackable’ communication, and insight into the foundations of quantum mechanics, it has been asked whether this process is essentially quantum, or could be performed classically. We examine counterfactual communication, both classical and quantum, and show that the protocols proposed so far for sending signals that don’t involve matter/energy transfer associated with the bits sent must be quantum, insofar as they require wave-particle duality.
The differences of damage initiation and accumulation of DP steels: a numerical and experimental analysis
Authors: Pütz Felix , Shen Fuhui , Könemann Markus , Münstermann Sebastian
Published: February 2021

Many studies have examined the damage behaviour of dual-phase steels already. It is a topic of high interest, since understanding the mechanisms of damage during forming processes enables the production of steels with improved properties and damage tolerance. However, the focus was rarely on the comparison between representatives of this steel class, and the numerical simulation for the quantification of damage states was not thoroughly used. Therefore, this study compares the damage initiation and accumulation of two dual-phase steels (DP800 and DP1000), which are used in the automotive industry. Additionally, parameter sets of a phenomenological damage mechanics model with coupled damage evolution are calibrated for each material. The combined analysis reveals an earlier initiation of damage for the DP800, where the damage accumulation phase is prolonged. For DP1000 the damage nucleates only shortly before material failure. The material model is able to correctly predict the behaviour, while experimental analysis confirms the prediction via light optical and SEM metallography.
Mode I fatigue limit of notched structures: A deeper insight into Finite Fracture Mechanics
Authors: Sapora Alberto , Cornetti Pietro , Campagnolo Alberto , Meneghetti Giovanni
Published: February 2021

In the present contribution, the coupled stress-energy criterion of Finite Fracture Mechanics (FFM) is applied to assess the fatigue limit of structures weakened by sharp V- and U-notches and subjected to mode I loading conditions. The FFM is a critical-distance-based approach whose implementation requires the knowledge of two material properties, namely the plain material fatigue limit and the threshold value of the stress intensity factor (SIF) range for the fatigue crack growth of long cracks. However, the FFM critical distance is a structural parameter, being a function not only of the material but also of the geometry of the notched component. Experimental notch fatigue results taken from the literature and referred to a variety of materials and geometrical configurations are compared with FFM theoretical estimations, obtained through simple semi-analytical relationships. The case of semi-circular edge notches is also dealt with.
Start-ups, Innovation and Knowledge Spillovers
Authors: Audretsch David Bruce , Belitski Maksim , Caiazza Rosa
Published: February 2021

The knowledge spillover theory of entrepreneurship (KSTE) seeks to explain the mechanisms of how uncommercialized knowledge can be turned into new to market products. This paper uses a large unbalanced panel of 16,542 UK firms constructed from six consecutive waves of a community innovation survey and annual business registry survey during 2002–2014 to test the differences in the returns to knowledge spillover for innovation between start-ups and incumbent firms. The theoretical, managerial, and policy implications of the study are discussed.
Climate change, habitat connectivity, and conservation gaps: a case study of four ungulate species endemic to the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Liang Jianchao , Ding Zhifeng , Jiang Zhigang , Yang Xiaojun , Xiao Rongbo , Singh Paras Bikram , Hu Yiming , Guo Keji , Zhang Zhixiang , Hu Huijian
Published: February 2021

Context

Habitat connectivity is essential for the long-term persistence of species, but is commonly disregarded in climate change impact studies. The Tibetan Plateau contains a biome rich in endemic ungulates, which are highly sensitive to climatic variations and deserve particular attention in conservation planning against climate change.

Objectives

We evaluated the response and vulnerability of habitat connectivity to climate change for four ungulate species endemic to the Tibetan Plateau, and examined the robustness of protected areas (PAs) for the conservation of these species under climate change.

Methods

For each focal species, we developed ecological niche models to predict the spatial variations in habitat under climate change and conducted a network-theoretical analysis to estimate the consequent changes in habitat connectivity. Moreover, we used the circuit theory to characterize dispersal patterns of these species and conducted gap analyses to estimate the contribution of existing PAs to the conservation of these species.

Results

The four focal species will experience a remarkable connectivity loss that outpaced their habitat loss in response to climate change. Currently, 53.39 and 46.64% of the areas that could contribute to the habitat suitability and connectivity, respectively, of these species are unprotected. These values could further increase under future climate conditions.

Conclusions

Climate-driven habitat variations may lead to the loss of key connectivity areas between the habitats of ungulates, causing disproportionate decrease in habitat connectivity. The existing PAs on the Tibetan Plateau are not robust for the conservation of the four ungulates. Adjustment of certain key PAs may help to address the conservation gaps.
The hegemony of the practical in embodied cognitive science and the question of bodily vulnerability
Authors: Bonnemann Jens
Published: February 2021

When perception is made the subject of philosophy, it is primarily understood as pre-theoretical sensual knowledge, and the question of its truth content becomes the focus of attention. In contrast, approaches that fall within the philosophy of embodiment quite rightly point out that perception is bodily anchored and closely linked to interests in action. The primacy of knowledge is therefore substituted by a primacy of praxis. This article aims to point out the blind spots that such a hegemony of the practical entails. In a phenomenological way, it is to be shown that beside the aspect of instrumentality, perceptive situations are also experienced as pleasant or unpleasant as such. This points to the importance of the pathical character of perception. However, it is not a call to enthrone the primacy of affect instead of the primacy of practice. The paper concludes with a thought on the philosophy of pedagogy and education. Proceeding from that perceptive position, it is argued that film in particular offers a chance to apply the phenomenology of pathical perception to the field of intersubjectivity.
Human behavioral pattern analysis-based anomaly detection system in residential space
Authors: Choi Seunghyun , Kim Changgyun , Kang Yong-Shin , Youm Sekyoung
Published: February 2021

Increasingly, research has analyzed human behavior in various fields. The fourth industrial revolution technology is very useful for analyzing human behavior. From the viewpoint of the residential space monitoring system, the life patterns in human living spaces vary widely, and it is very difficult to find abnormal situations. Therefore, this study proposes a living space-based monitoring system. The system includes the behavioral analysis of monitored subjects using a deep learning methodology, behavioral pattern derivation using the PrefixSpan algorithm, and the anomaly detection technique using sequence alignment. Objectivity was obtained through behavioral recognition using deep learning rather than subjective behavioral recording, and the time to derive a pattern was shortened using the PrefixSpan algorithm among sequential pattern algorithms. The proposed system provides personalized monitoring services by applying the methodology of other fields to human behavior. Thus, the system can be extended using another methodology or fourth industrial revolution technology.
Epistemic and poietic intentional processes
Authors: Lubacz Józef
Published: February 2021

We examine the intentional processes that correspond to conceptualizations of activities performed by subjects with the intention of achieving an objective. Taking as its basis a general framework of intentional processes, two types of such process are considered: epistemic ones, aimed at acquiring knowledge about something, and poietic ones, aimed at bringing about something. The “something” is understood as anything that the processes can pertain to: a physical, mental or abstract object, a phenomenon, a state of affairs, etc. The generic features of such processes are discussed, with focus on: (1) features that are common for epistemic and poietic intentional processes as well as on features that differentiate them, (2) the dynamic and static features of the processes, and on (3) issues involved in controlling the progression of the processes towards intended objectives. The latter issue is the essential part of our considerations, the two former establish the necessary conceptual framework. The presented analysis aims at shedding light on these aspects of human intentional activities which can be considered virtually independent of any specific area of human intentional activity, be it natural sciences, humanities or technology.