bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring source differences on diet-tissue discrimination factors in the analysis of stable isotope mixing models
Authors: Kadye Wilbert T. , Redelinghuys Suzanne , Parnell Andrew C. , Booth Anthony J.
Published: September 2020

Stable isotope mixing models are regularly used to provide probabilistic estimates of source contributions to dietary mixtures. Whilst Bayesian implementations of isotope mixing models have become prominent, the use of appropriate diet-tissue discrimination factors (DTDFs) remains as the least resolved aspect. The DTDFs are critical in providing accurate inferences from these models. Using both simulated and laboratory-based experimental data, this study provides conceptual and practical applications of isotope mixing models by exploring the role of DTDFs. The experimental study used Mozambique TilapiaOreochromis mossambicus, a freshwater fish, to explore multi-tissue variations in isotopic incorporation patterns, and to evaluate isotope mixing model outputs based on the experiment- and literature-based DTDFs. Isotope incorporation patterns were variable for both muscle and fin tissues among the consumer groups that fed diet sources with different stable isotope values. Application of literature-based DTDFs in isotope mixing models consistently underestimated the dietary proportions of all single-source consumer groups. In contrast, application of diet-specific DTDFs provided better dietary estimates for single-source consumer groups. Variations in the proportional contributions of the individual sources were, nevertheless, observed for the mixed-source consumer group, which suggests that isotope assimilation of the individual food sources may have been influenced by other underlying physiological processes. This study provides evidence that stable isotope values from different diet sources exhibit large variations as they become incorporated into consumer tissues. This suggests that the application of isotope mixing models requires consideration of several aspects such as diet type and the associated biological processes that may influence DTDFs.
Surface-state-induced upward band bending in P doped g-C3N4 for the formation of an isotype heterojunction between bulk g-C3N4 and P doped g-C3N4: photocatalytic hydrogen production
Authors: Thangavel Nithya , Pandi Kavitha , Shaheer A. R. Mahammed , Neppolian Bernaurdshaw
Published: September 2020

The staggered type heterojunction with g-C3N4 based nanomaterials has received much attention owing to its change in chemical potential between two semiconductors.
Graphene oxide/reduced graphene oxide films as protective barriers on lead against differential aeration corrosion induced by water drops
Authors: Ruben Bartali , Zhang Gaixia , Xin Tong , Giorgio Speranza , Victor Micheli , Gloria Gottardi , Michele Fedrizzi , Filippo Pierini , Shuhui Sun , Nadhira Laidani , Ana C Tavares
Published: September 2020

Graphene-based materials have demonstrated chemical stability and are very promising for protection against the corrosion induced by water on lead surfaces.
Selectivity of nitrate and chloride ions in microporous carbons: the role of anisotropic hydration and applied potentials
Authors: Aydin Fikret , Cerón Maira R. , Hawks Steven A. , Oyarzun Diego I. , Zhan Cheng , Pham Tuan Anh , Stadermann Michael , Campbell Patrick G.
Published: September 2020

Molecular dynamics simulations show that the selectivity of nitrate over chloride in microporous carbons is determined by a complex interplay between voltage, confinement, and specific ion effects-including ion shape and local hydration structure.
“Water-in-salt” electrolyte enhanced high voltage aqueous supercapacitor with carbon electrodes derived from biomass waste-ground grain hulls
Authors: Pang Mingjun , Jiang Shang , Zhao Jianguo , Zhang Sufang , Wang Runwei , Li Ning , Liu Rui , Pan Qiliang , Qu Wenshan , Xing Baoyan
Published: September 2020

To design high specific surface area and optimize the pore size distribution of materials, we employ a combination of carbonization and KOH activation to prepare activated carbon derived from ground grain hulls.
Motion‐based frame interpolation for film and television effects
Authors: Kokaram Anil , Singh Davinder , Robinson Simon , Kelly Damien , Collis Bill , Libreri Kim
Published: September 2020

Frame interpolation is the process of synthesising a new frame in‐between existing frames in an image sequence. It has emerged as a key algorithmic module in motion picture effects. In the context of this special issue, this study provides a review of the technology used to create in‐between frames and presents a Bayesian framework that generalises frame interpolation algorithms using the concept of motion interpolation. Unlike existing literature in this area, the authors also compare performance using the top industrial toolkits used in the post production industry. They find that all successful techniques employ motion‐based interpolation, and the commercial version of the Bayesian approach performs best. Another goal of this study is to compare the performance gains with recent convolutional neural network (CNN) algorithms against the traditional explicit model‐based approaches. They find that CNNs do not clearly outperform the explicit motion‐based techniques, and require significant compute resources, but provide complementary improvements in certain types of sequences.
Web phishing detection techniques: a survey on the state‐of‐the‐art, taxonomy and future directions
Authors: Vijayalakshmi M. , Mercy Shalinie S. , Yang Ming Hour , U. Raja Meenakshi
Published: September 2020

Internet dragged more than half of the world's population into the cyber world. Unfortunately, with the increase in internet transactions, cybercrimes also increase rapidly. With the anonymous structure of the internet, attackers attempt to deceive the end‐users through different forms namely phishing, malware, SQL injection, man‐in‐the‐middle, domain name system tunnelling, ransomware, web trojan, and so on. Amongst them, phishing is the most deceiving attack, which exploits the vulnerabilities in the end‐users. Phishing is often done through emails and malicious websites to lure the user by posing themselves as a trusted entity. Security experts have been proposing many anti‐phishing techniques. Till today there is no single solution that is capable of mitigating all the vulnerabilities. A systematic review of current trends in web phishing detection techniques is carried out and a taxonomy of automated web phishing detection is presented. The objective of this study is to acknowledge the status of current research in automated web phishing detection and evaluate their performance. This study also discusses the research avenues for future investigation.
Augmented extended Kalman filter with cooperative Bayesian filtering and multi‐models fusion for precise vehicle localisations
Authors: Xiao Guangcong , Song Xiaolin , Cao Haotian , Zhao Song , Dai Hongliang , Li Mingjun
Published: September 2020

Self‐localisation is vital for autonomous vehicles. In this study, the authors present an augmented extended Kalman filter (AEKF) framework for intelligent vehicle localisation applications. Compared to the previous approach, the proposed AEKF is enhanced through a model fusion, which incorporates a constant velocity model, constant acceleration model, constant turn rate and velocity, and constant turn rate and acceleration model by using the Takagi–Sugeno fuzzy inference technique, where the typical prediction procedure in the extended Kalman filter is modified by a fusion of those various motion models for the state estimation. Furthermore, they proposed a flexible cooperative Bayesian filter to incorporate the data from nearby‐vehicles’ position and lateral distance from the host vehicle to the lane lines, to improve the raw global positioning system (GPS) performance under multi‐sensor observation environments. They conduct simulation experiments under vividly, near‐realistic scenarios with random traffic‐flows to show the superiorities of the proposed framework when compared with the consumer‐grade GPS implementation. The results show that the obtained positioning enhancement can significantly reduce the positioning error from the original larger than 5 m to the sub‐meter level under various scenarios.
Broadband corner cloak using a uniaxial transformation medium of stacked artificial dielectric sheets
Authors: Takano Yuma , Sanada Atsushi
Published: September 2020

We demonstrate corner cloak operations mimicking a corner reflector and hiding objects in a truncated corner. The corner cloak is designed at 18.25 GHz and implemented by nonresonant artificial dielectric sheets stacked onto the bottom hypotenuse. It is shown by the near-field measurements that the measured field distributions for the cloak agree well with those for the original area of the corner reflector as well as those for the numerical prediction. The bistatic radar cross-sections (BRCSs) for the cloak and the original area calculated from the measured field distributions coincide with each other and the cloak operation is quantitatively confirmed. The bandwidth evaluated by the specular scattering angles from the BRCSs shows broadband operation as wide as from 16 to 22 GHz.
A copula based representation for tailings dam failures
Authors: Canno Ferreira Fais Laura Maria , González-López Verónica Andrea , Rodrigues Diego Samuel , Rodrigues de Moraes Rafael
Published: September 2020

In this article, we model the dependence between dam factor and D
max, where dam factor is an indicator of risk of a tailings dam failure, which involves the height H of the tailings dam, the volume of material housed by the tailings dam VT and the volume dispensed by the tailings dam, VF, when the dam breaks. And, Dmax is the maximum distance traveled by the material released by the tailings dam, after the collapse. With the dependence found via copula models and Bayesian estimation, given a range of dam factor, we estimate the probability of the released material to exceed a certain threshold. Since the dam factor involves the released volume VF (unknown before the dam break), we present a naive way to estimate it using VT and H. In this way, it is possible to estimate the dam factor of a tailings dam and with such a value to identify the probability of the tailings dam to show a Dmax that exceeds a certain threshold.
The analytical approach of Drone use in radiation monitoring
Authors: Bednář Daniel , Otáhal Petr , Němeček Ladislav , Geršlová Eva
Published: September 2020

During the traditional way of radiation field monitoring − walking measurements – is possible to encounter inaccessible or dangerous areas. For this case, the National Institute for Nuclear, Chemical and Biological Protection (SUJCHBO) has created the method of aerial measurement of ambient dose equivalent rate (ADER) using the drone equipped with gamma-spectrometer. This paper presents two methods on estimation of near-surface gamma radiation based on aerial measurements with Drone equipped with gamma-spectrometer D230A. The D230A was first tested in a room fitted with walls with a higher amount of natural radionuclides from uranium series. The aerial measurements were done at SUJCHBO’s Heliport at three altitudes (6, 11 and 16 m) and from the obtained data, the values of ADER for the altitude of 1 m were calculated and compared with the data measured in the altitude of 1 m. From the two proposed methods, the first one serves for evaluation of the whole measured area while the second method serves for evaluation of zones of interest. In the case of the first method, the highest difference between the calculated and measured data for the altitude of 1 m was 20% and, in case of the second method, the difference of −13.3% and −8.2% was achieved.
Foreign direct investment (FDI) and economic growth in China: vector autoregressive (VAR) analysis
Authors: Liu Pengfei , Lee Han-Sol
Published: September 2020

This study examines the impact of foreign direct investment (FDI) on economic growth in China based on time series data for the period 1981-2018. For an empirical study, we used vector autoregressive (VAR) analysis. Before building our VAR model, we performed tests for unit root, normality, and heteroscedasticity to certify the data quality. The optimal lag 3 was selected using the Akaike information criterion (AIC), Schwartz (SC), and Hannan-Quinn (HQ) criteria. The Granger causality test is additionally performed. Based on the VAR model, we determined the impulse responses and variance decomposition of log FDI and log GDP in China. The results showed a positive and consistent impact of log FDI on China’s economic growth. The impact in the short-term is insignificant, as it is likely that there are multiple factors drive economic growth of China besides FDI inflows. However, the impact of FDI increases to a significant level in the long-term. Which indicates that FDI is one of the main factors to enhance Chinese economy. In conclusion, we suggest a policy implication how to sustain and promote the existing positive effects of FDI inflows on Chinese economy.
Current state of financing health care system in Russia: regional aspect
Authors: Nikulina Olga , Ratkin Alexander
Published: September 2020

One of the specific sectors of the economy in Russia is healthcare, which is a complex system of socio-economic relations. An important element of the socio-economic development of the state is precisely the indicators of health and living standards of the population. The relationship between the level of development of the healthcare system and the quality of life of the population is obvious, which ultimately affects the level of national income and the country’s economy as a whole. Therefore, in modern conditions of development of our country, the most pressing issue of the health care system is the process of its financing, which is considered in this article in the context of regional characteristics.
Economic Justification of Enterprise Development based on Company Value Analysis
Authors: Shcherbakova Natalia A. , Shcherbakov Alexander
Published: September 2020

The article considers the use of company value analysis for economic justification of the choice of directions for business development. The company value analysis is based on income forecasting. The authors outline the features of income modelling for these purposes. They consider various ways of forecasting the income of an enterprise for the purpose of economic justification of development options based on annual and quarterly values. The article suggests that the current pandemic situation in the world has significantly affected the performance and development prospects of almost every company making it harder to forecast the performance based on retrospective data due to dramatic changes in income caused by the socio-economic environment in the world. The authors arrived at the conclusion that each specific scenario requires the use of a number of forecast options and selection of the most appropriate forecasting model with regard to every particular situation. In conclusion, it was pointed out that the value analysis of the company gives evident results and can be considered as an effective tool for economic justification of the choice of directions for business development.
Digital technologies in retail: is there an impact on businesses?
Authors: Borisova Alena , Borisova Ekaterina , Kirichenko Elene , Dmitrieva Ludmila
Published: September 2020

Increasing competition in the market leads to the search for tools to influence consumer choice. The dynamism of customers’ requirements, their taste preferences and ways of communicating with suppliers is a source of continuous development companies. The digital business environment is formed under the influence of the intensity and speed of implementation of automated solutions in the company’s activities and setting up a mechanism for interaction with stakeholders. There is a surge of interest in developing technological solutions based on digital technologies. Companies that use such solutions evaluate the effectiveness of their investments. Investment activity is based on maintaining a balance between the impact of technology on operational activities in the present and ensuring the preservation of market positions in the strategic perspective. There is a research hypothesis about the impact of technology implementation in the company’s activities on its performance in the market. Diagnostics was carried out on the example of the leaders of the Russian retail market. Technologies that were tested in the company have been identified, the dynamics of business indicators have been studied, and expert assessments of an analytical company’s specialist on the factors influencing the introduction of technologies have been analyzed.
Securities accounting control procedures as a tool for preventing economic crimes
Authors: Burlakova Olga V. , Saushkina Victoria V.
Published: September 2020

This article offers a methodology of control procedures for checking the accounting of securities as a tool for preventing economic crimes. This methodology is proposed based on the analysis of investments in fixed assets and the dynamics of economic crimes in 2010-2018, the study of typical errors and violations. The methodology combines two sets of procedures: determining the effectiveness of purchased and available securities, as well as determining the completeness, reliability and information content of securities. The methodology of control procedures proposed by authors is aimed at timely detection and prevention of violations and fraudulent actions with securities.
The frame optimization and validation of resistance spot welding gun
Authors: Hong Ji-Su , Lee Kwang-Hee , Lee Chul-Hee
Published: September 2020

Resistance spot welding gun is generally used to bond parts in the automotive and consumer electronics industries. In the automotive industry, chassis assembly operations use resistance spot welding. High production speeds allow for mass production and automation, resulting in diverse uses of resistance spot welding. To automate the welding process, it is mounted on a multi-joint robot and the welding gun is designed considering the specifications of the robot. High-strength structural design is needed to prevent deformation during pressurization, but the weight of the weld gun affects the efficiency of the robot. For this reason, it is necessary to design a welding gun with high stiffness and light weight. In this study, the analysis is carried out to measure the stress and deformation amount of weld gun. Optimization for weight reduction is performed by genetic algorithm method and topology optimization. The optimization of the resistance spot weld gun frame is performed, and the optimized model is verified through experimental verification. The production cost of industry has been reduced through the high stiffness and light weight of welding gun.
Nodal positives Zervixkarzinom
Authors: Krome Susanne
Published: September 2020

Nach einer kombinierten Radiochemotherapie sind Rezidive beim lokal fortgeschrittenen Zervixkarzinom häufig. In der prospektiven Phase-I-Studie erhielten Frauen nach der Standardbehandlung eine Immuntherapie mit dem CLTA4-Antikörper Ipilimumab. Die Immuntherapie erhöhte das progressionsfreie Überleben (PFS) und das Gesamtüberleben (OS) nach 1 Jahr.
Glioblastom
Authors: Krome Susanne
Published: September 2020

Trotz der postoperativen kombinierten Radiochemotherapie kommt es bei den meisten high-grade Glioblastomen oft schnell zum Lokalrezidiv. Die intraoperative Radiatio der Resektionsfläche mit weichen Strahlen verlängerte im Vergleich mit historischen Kontrollen signifikant das progressionsfreie und Gesamtüberleben.
Fortgeschrittenes Nierenzellkarzinom
Authors: Kretzschmar Alexander
Published: September 2020

Die Datenlage zum Nutzen einer zusätzlichen stereotaktischen Strahlentherapie (SBRT) zu einer Immuntherapie bei Patienten mit fortgeschrittenem Nierenzellkarzinom (mRCC) ist noch sehr übersichtlich. Die auf dem ASCO-GU hierzu vorgestellten Studien tragen auch noch nicht zu einer Klärung der Frage bei.
Prostatakarzinom
Authors: Schmale Ine
Published: September 2020

Beim Genitourinary Cancers Symposium (ASCO GU) in San Francisco wurde die derzeit gängige Therapie des Prostatakarzinoms bestätigt und gestärkt. Die TITAN-Studie zeigte, dass Patienten von Apalutamid beim metastasierten hormonsensitiven Prostatakarzinom unabhängig von der Nachfolgetherapie profitieren. Nach vorangegangener Hormontherapie ist Cabazitaxel erfolgreicher als eine weitere AR-gerichtete Therapie. Und eine hypofraktionierte Bestrahlung ist beim lokalisierten Prostatakarzinom wahrscheinlich ausreichend.
Metastasiertes Mammakarzinom
Authors: Arnheim Katharina
Published: September 2020

Auf der diesjährigen virtuellen Jahrestagung der American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) wurde eine Vielzahl an Studiendaten zum Brustkrebs vorgestellt. Hier eine kleine Auswahl.
Cushing’s Disease due to ACTH Secreting Pituitary Microadenoma: A Single Institutional Experience of Four Cases
Authors: Gandhi Ashok , Barhate Mayur V. , Jain Shashikant K. , Gandhi Sapna A.
Published: September 2020

ACTH secreting pituitary adenomas are rare occurrences in autoptical, surgical and neuroradiological series. We herewith describe a series of four patients of Cushing’s disease due to ACTH secreting pituitary microadenoma. All patients presented with signs and symptoms of hypercortisolism. Hormonal testing and bilateral inferior petrosal sinus sampling were indicative of pituitary-dependent Cushing’s syndrome. Dynamic sellar MRI was suggestive of asymmetric pituitary, with suspect pituitary microadenoma in all cases. Three patients were operated for endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal surgery, while one patient refused surgery and was managed with ketoconazole. During postoperative period, remission of hypercortisolism was ensured in two patients, while one patient continued to have raised levels of cortisol. One patient with raised levels of cortisol during postoperative period was prescribed Ketoconazole for 6 months. Histopathology confirmed the presence of pituitary adenoma. Adenoma displayed ACTH immunoreactivity. Our cases indicate that ACTH secreting pituitary microadenoma may occur in patients with Cushing’s disease. Careful radiological, surgical and pathological examination is necessary to recognize this condition and avoid surgical failure.
Podzolisation affects the spatial allocation and chemical composition of soil organic matter fractions
Authors: Krettek Agnes , Herrmann Ludger , Rennert Thilo
Published: September 2020

Podzols are soils that display a unique vertical distribution of soil organic matter (SOM). We hypothesise that podzolisation, as a pedogenetic process, influences or even controls content, allocation and quality of SOM. We determined soil organic carbon (SOC) and nitrogen (N) contents in six SOM fractions obtained from mineral horizons of five soils with increasing degree of podzolisation: sand and stable aggregates (S + A), particulate organic matter (POM) > 63 µm and <63 µm, silt and clay (s + c), resistant SOC and dissolved organic matter. We applied infrared spectroscopy to evaluate SOM decomposition state, relative abundance of functional groups and SOM-metal complexation. In topsoil horizons, relative SOC allocation shifted from the larger to the smaller size POM fraction with increasing podzolisation. Accompanied with size reduction, the POM < 63 µm fraction was progressively less decomposed, as derived from infrared spectroscopy and C:N ratios. In illuvial subsoils, the proportion of SOC in the S + A fraction increased with increasing podzolisation, implying SOM accumulation in aggregates and coatings on sand grains. Elevated abundance of carboxylate and aromatic C in the s + c fractions of subsoil horizons indicated their preferred sorption. Additionally, metal-carboxyl complexation increased during podzolisation.
Accumulation model of gas hydrate in the Chaoshan depression of South China Sea, China
Authors: Zhong Guangjian , Yan Pin , Sun Ming , Yu Jinhui , Feng Changmao , Zhao Jing , Yi Hai , Zhao Zhongquan
Published: September 2020

The northern waters of the South China Sea are rich in natural gas hydrate resources. The source of gas is a crucial factor controlling the formation of natural gas hydrates. Gas sources that form natural gas hydrates can be related to three categories: pyrolysis genesis, biological genesis, and inorganic genesis. A series of large- and medium-sized Mesozoic and Cenozoic sedimentary basins have developed in the northern South China Sea. These basins are rich in organic matter and there are multiple sets of source rocks buried deeply, which are the main gas sources for hydrate accumulation. The Chaoshan Depression is the largest Mesozoic residual depression in the northern South China Sea. Analysis of geochemical and geological samples show that there is a significant oil and gas leakage activity on the seabed. Seismic data and drilling confirmed the existence of natural gas hydrates in Chaoshan Depression. The natural gas hydrate accumulation pattern of Chaoshan Depression is a leak- type accumulation, which has the characteristics of unique structure, abundant Mesozoic gas source, and development of faulting system.
Calculation of Energy Parameters of LNG Power Plant with Utilization its Cold Energy
Authors: Uglanov Dmitry , Tremkina Olga , Sarmin Dmitry , Manakova Olga , Lopatin Alexey
Published: September 2020

This paper proposes the possibility of using a cryogenic power plant as part of a hybrid engine, which can be used in the system of urban transport infrastructure. The model of this cryogenic power plant consists of main contour and auxiliary contour of power plants. The parameters of a hybrid cryogenic power plant were evaluated and the characteristics of the main contour of a hybrid power plant driven by a piston expander and a turbo expander with heat input from both the ambient and the exhaust gases of a diesel engine were calculated. Liquid methane is used as the main fuel. The optimal operation cycle of the auxiliary contour of power plant itself has been determined. For this purpose the main parameters of Rankin and Brayton cycles have been analyzed - consumption, power, efficiency. Besides, the most suitable cryogenic fuels for efficient operation were determined and the schemes of the plants were proposed. The calculations were performed using calculation algorithms, examples of which are presented in this article.
Design of a New Type of Deployable Bridge
Authors: Li Qiyu , Yuan Jiehong , Sun Haitao , Zhou Shiming , Yuxing Peng
Published: September 2020

In order to ensure that the rescue workers can quickly cross the natural obstacles such as ditches and valleys to enter the disaster area when the traffic facilities are destroyed Seriously by natural disasters, a new type of developable bridge is designed. The design of the bridge is based on the theory of shear hinge and the one-dimensional shear hinge element is used as the basic element. Under the function of dead-weight, the bridge can be unfolded by rope traction. It can be locked into service state after being unfolded to the design position. In this paper, through kinematic simulation and finite element static analysis, the developability and bearing capacity of the developable bridge are verified. The results show that the deployable bridge can meet the design requirements.
Three-dimensional bioprinting of aneurysm-bearing tissue structure for endovascular deployment of embolization coils
Authors: Jang Lindy K , Alvarado Javier A , Pepona Marianna , Wasson Elisa M , Nash Landon D , Ortega Jason M , Randles Amanda , Maitland Duncan J , Moya Monica L , Hynes William F
Published: September 2020

Various types of embolization devices have been developed for the treatment of cerebral aneurysms. However, it is challenging to properly evaluate device performance and train medical personnel for device deployment without the aid of functionally relevant models. Current in vitro aneurysm models suffer from a lack of key functional and morphological features of brain vasculature that limit their applicability for these purposes. These features include the physiologically relevant mechanical properties and the dynamic cellular environment of blood vessels subjected to constant fluid flow. Herein, we developed three-dimensionally (3D) printed aneurysm-bearing vascularized tissue structures using gelatin-fibrin hydrogel of which the inner vessel walls were seeded with human cerebral microvascular endothelial cells (hCMECs). The hCMECs readily exhibited cellular attachment, spreading, and confluency all around the vessel walls, including the aneurysm walls. Additionally, the in vitro platform was directly amenable to flow measurements via particle image velocimetry, enabling the direct assessment of the vascular flow dynamics for comparison to a 3D computational fluid dynamics model. Detachable coils were delivered into the printed aneurysm sac through the vessel using a microcatheter and static blood plasma clotting was monitored inside the aneurysm sac and around the coils. This biomimetic in vitro aneurysm model is a promising method for examining the biocompatibility and hemostatic efficiency of embolization devices and for providing hemodynamic information which would aid in predicting aneurysm rupture or healing response after treatment.
Sound-induced morphogenesis of multicellular systems for rapid orchestration of vascular networks
Authors: Petta Dalila , Basoli Valentina , Pellicciotta Daniele , Tognato Riccardo , Barcik Jan , Arrigoni Chiara , Bella Elena Della , Armiento Angela Rita , Candrian Christian , Richards R. Geoff , Alini Mauro , Moretti Matteo , Eglin David , Serra Tiziano
Published: September 2020

Morphogenesis, a complex process, ubiquitous in developmental biology and many pathologies, is based on self-patterning of cells. Spatial patterns of cells, organoids, or inorganic particles can be forced on demand using acoustic surface standing waves, such as the Faraday waves. This technology allows tuning of parameters (sound frequency, amplitude, chamber shape) under contactless, fast and mild culture conditions, for morphologically relevant tissue generation. We call this method Sound Induced Morphogenesis (SIM). In this work, we use SIM to achieve tight control over patterning of endothelial cells and mesenchymal stem cells densities within a hydrogel, with the endpoint formation of vascular structures. Here, we first parameterize our system to produce enhanced cell density gradients. Second, we allow for vasculogenesis after SIM patterning control and compare our controlled technology against state-of-the-art microfluidic culture systems, the latter characteristic of pure self-organized patterning and uniform initial density. Our sound-induced cell density patterning and subsequent vasculogenesis requires less cells than the microfluidic chamber. We advocate for the use of SIM for rapid, mild, and reproducible morphogenesis induction and further explorations in the regenerative medicine and cell therapy fields.
Electrochemical behaviour and microstructural characterization of different austenitic stainless steel for biomedical applications
Authors: Sabará Ely Wagner Ferreira , Pereira Valter , Molisani André Luiz , Caldeira Lecino , Souza Rhuan Costa , Simões Thiago Araújo , Bueno Alysson Helton Santos
Published: September 2020

Austenitic stainless steels, specified as ASTM F138, ASTM F1586, and ASTM F2581, underwent a comparative study, including the analyses of microstructure, crystalline phases, and Vickers microhardness. The corrosion resistance was investigated by anodic polarization curves and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy using the 0.9% NaCl solution and simulated body fluid (SBF). All samples exhibited only the austenite phase and the Vickers microhardness was influenced by high nitrogen content addition. Independent on the electrolytic solution type, the ASTM F1586 and ASTM F2581 steels had better corrosive resistance performance from the anodic polarization results. However, ASTM F2581 steel presented the passive film with better protective capacity in the saline solution while ASTM F1586 had better performance in the SBF.
First winners of Bell Burnell fellowships announced
Authors: Banks Michael
Published: September 2020

Four women have been awarded a new student fellowship that seeks to promote diversity in physics. The Bell Burnell Graduate Scholarship Fund, awarded by the Institute of Physics (IOP), is designed to help PhD students from groups currently under-represented in physics.
COVID-19 delays SKA Observatory ratification
Authors: Makoni Munyaradzi
Published: September 2020

The Square Kilometre Array (SKA) – the world’s largest radio telescope, planned to be built in Australia and southern Africa – is anticipating a six-month delay towards establishing the SKA Observatory due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
Britain will cover Horizon Europe losses
Authors: Allen Michael
Published: September 2020

The UK government has committed to meet any funding shortfalls that may occur if the UK “does not associate” with the European Union’s upcoming research programme, Horizon Europe.
Putting new physics on the syllabus
Authors: Bell Niki
Published: September 2020

Niki Bell calls on physicists to insist that exam boards integrate modern discoveries into the education system
Falling flat
Authors: Stoter Larry , Kneath Trevor , Thomas David V , Beatty Mike , Fitch Christopher , Vos Johan , Finney John
Published: September 2020

In response to Rachel Brazil’s feature article “Fighting flat-Earth theory” (July pp35–39), in which she explores why the “shocking” notion that the Earth is not a sphere is increasingly taking hold and how the physics community should best respond.
The science of racing safely
Authors: Leslie-Pelecky Diandra
Published: September 2020

Being a racecar driver in NASCAR is a dangerous job. One small mistake can send cars flying, cause multi-car crashes and, in some cases, be fatal. Diandra Leslie-Pelecky explores the science behind some of the features in NASCAR that are designed to keep the drivers safe
How to hack a self-driving car
Authors: Ornes Stephen
Published: September 2020

Cars that drive themselves may one day improve road safety by reducing human error – and hopefully deaths by accidents too. However, the hardware and software behind the technology opens up a range of opportunities to hackers, as Stephen Ornes finds out
Scepticism beyond pessimism
Authors: Glester Andrew
Published: September 2020

Most readers of Physics World will be familiar with the works of astronomer Carl Sagan, and the writer and producer Ann Druyan. Following in their footsteps, daughter Sasha Sagan has now penned her first book, For Small Creatures Such As We: Rituals and Reflections for Finding Wonder
In it for the long run
Authors: Gray Corey , Commissariat Tushna
Published: September 2020

For the past 22 years, physicist Corey Gray has worked at the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory in Hanford, Washington. He spoke to Tushna Commissariat about building LIGO, the big detection, inspiring the next generation of Indigenous physicists, and having a healthy work-life balance
Rescaling of applied oscillating voltages in small Josephson junctions
Authors: Kanyolo Godwill Mbiti , Shimada Hiroshi
Published: September 2020

The standard theory of dynamical Coulomb blockade [P(E) theory] in ultra-small tunnel junctions has been formulated on the basis of phase-phase correlations by several authors. It was recently extended by several experimental and theoretical works to account for novel features such as electromagnetic environment-based renormalization effects. Despite this progress, aspects of the theory remain elusive especially in the case of linear arrays. Here, we apply path integral formalism to re-derive the Cooper-pair current and the BCS quasi-particle current in single small Josephson junctions and extend it to include long Josephson junction arrays as effective single junctions. We consider renormalization effects of applied oscillating voltages due to the impedance environment of a single junction as well as its implication to the array. As is the case in the single junction, we find that the amplitude of applied oscillating electromagnetic fields is renormalized by the same complex-valued weight

Ξ
(
ω
)
=
∣
Ξ
(
ω
)
∣
exp

i
η
(
ω
)

that rescales the environmental impedance in the P(E) function. This weight acts as a linear response function for applied oscillating electromagnetic fields driving the quantum circuit, leading to a mass gap in the thermal spectrum of the electromagnetic field. The mass gap can be modeled as a pair of exotic ‘particle’ excitation with quantum statistics determined by the argument η(ω). In the case of the array, this pair corresponds to a bosonic charge soliton/anti-soliton pair injected into the array by the electromagnetic field. Possible application of these results is in dynamical Coulomb blockade experiments where long arrays are used as electromagnetic power detectors.
Laboratory Biomarkers in the Management of Patients With COVID-19
Authors: Weidmann Maxwell D , Ofori Kenneth , Rai Alex J
Published: September 2020

Objectives

Laboratory testing and the measurement of appropriate biomarkers play a critical role in managing patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), allowing for disease diagnosis, monitoring progression, prognostication, prediction of treatment response, and risk stratification. We sought to characterize these effects on a more detailed, mechanistic level.

Methods

We reviewed the literature and identified a multitude of reports that describe the unique effects of this virus and its devastating consequences to multiple organ systems in COVID-19 patients.

Results

There are specific alterations in biomarkers related to coagulation, depopulation of T-cell subtypes, the cytokine storm and inflammation, and kidney and cardiac dysfunction.

Conclusions

Laboratory measurement of specific parameters and the use of appropriate prognostic, predictive, and monitoring biomarkers afford clinicians the ability to make informed medical decisions and guide therapy for patients afflicted with this dreaded disease.
Sensitive Blood-Based Detection of Asbestos-Associated Diseases Using Cysteine-Rich Angiogenic Inducer 61 as Circulating Protein Biomarker
Authors: Bartkowiak Kai , Casjens Swaantje , Andreas Antje , Ačkar Lucija , Joosse Simon A , Raiko Irina , Brüning Thomas , Geffken Maria , Peine Sven , Johnen Georg , Weber Daniel Gilbert , Pantel Klaus
Published: September 2020

Background

Detection of asbestos-associated diseases like asbestosis or mesothelioma is still challenging. We sought to improve the diagnosis of benign asbestos-associated disease (BAAD) by detection of the protein cysteine-rich angiogenic inducer 61 (Cyr61) in human plasma.

Methods

Plasma Cyr61 was quantified using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Plasma samples from males diagnosed with BAAD, but without a malignant disease (n = 101), and malignant mesothelioma (n = 21; 15 males, 6 females), as well as nonasbestos-exposed healthy control participants (n = 150; 58 males, 92 females) were analyzed. Clinical sensitivity and specificity of Cyr61 were determined by receiver operating characteristic analysis.

Results

The median plasma Cyr61 concentration for healthy control participants was 0.27 ng/mL. Cytoplasmic Cyr61 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from healthy control participants was evenly distributed, as detected by immunofluorescent staining. The increase in plasma Cyr61 concentrations in the BAAD study group was statistically significant compared to the healthy control participants (P < 0.0001). For the detection of BAAD vs male healthy control participants, clinical sensitivity was 88% and clinical specificity 95% with an area under the curve of 0.924 at maximal Youden Index. For a predefined clinical specificity of 100%, the clinical sensitivity was 76%. For male mesothelioma patients vs male healthy control participants, the clinical sensitivity at maximal Youden Index was 95% with a clinical specificity of 100% (area under the curve, 0.997) and for a predefined clinical specificity of 100%, the clinical sensitivity was 93%.

Conclusions

In our study, plasma Cyr61 protein concentrations showed to be a new biomarker for asbestos-associated diseases like BAAD and mesothelioma in men, which deserves further investigation in large-scale cohort studies.
A temperature-dependent relationship between benthic invertebrate biomass and trawling pressure
Authors: Clare David S , Robinson Leonie A , Birchenough Silvana N R
Published: September 2020

Bottom trawling can cause acute depletion of benthic invertebrate biomass, thus reducing competition among surviving organisms and increasing food availability by generating carrion. As ectotherms are generally smaller and grow faster with increasing temperature, they may be less vulnerable to trawling and quicker to replenish biomass in warmer waters. Therefore, the chronic effect of bottom trawling on benthic invertebrate biomass may depend on local sea temperature and, hence, be under the influence of climate change. We tested this hypothesis using benthic grab samples from 200 sites spanning the North Sea and data on trawling pressure in the areas where samples were collected. The relationship between benthic community biomass and swept area ratio (the average number of times the seabed is trawled per year) was negative where annual bottom water temperature was low (8°C), positive in relatively warm water (11°C) and approximately neutral at intermediate temperature (9.5°C). These relationships were attributed to changes in mean body mass, not community abundance. Our results are consistent with theoretical expectations and suggest that climate modulates the chronic effect of bottom trawling on benthic invertebrate biomass. Confirming causality and determining the broader consequences for community structure and ecosystem functioning should be priorities of future research.
Development and Validation of a Method for Quantification of 28 Psychotropic Drugs in Postmortem Blood Samples by Modified Micro-QuEChERS and LC–MS-MS
Authors: Rodrigues Taís B , Morais Damila R , Gianvecchio Victor A P , Aquino Elvis M , Cunha Ricardo L , Huestis Marilyn A , Costa Jose Luiz
Published: September 2020

The development of new sample preparation alternatives in analytical toxicology leading to quick, effective, automated and environmentally friendly procedures is growing in importance. One of these alternatives is the QuEChERS, originally developed for the analysis of pesticide residues, producing cleaner extracts than liquid–liquid extraction, and easier separation of aqueous and organic phases. However, there are few published studies on the miniaturization of this technique for forensic toxicology, especially in postmortem analysis. We developed and validated a modified micro-QuEChERS and LC–MS-MS assay to quantify 16 antidepressants, 7 antipsychotics and 3 metabolites and semi-quantify norfluoxetine and norsertraline in postmortem blood. The calibration curve was linear from 1 to 500 ng/mL, achieved an r > 0.99, with all standards quantifying within ±15% of target except ±20% at the limit of quantification of 1 ng/mL for 26 substances. The F test was applied to evaluate if the variance between replicates remained constant for all calibrators. Six weighting factors were analyzed (1/x, 1/x2, 1/x0,5, 1/y, 1/y2 and 1/y0,5), with the weighting factor with the lowest sum of residual regression errors (1/x2) selected. No endogenous or exogenous interferences were observed. Method imprecision and bias were <19.0% and 19.7%, respectively. Advantages of this method include a low sample volume of 100 µL, simple but effective sample preparation and a rapid 8.5-min run time. The validated analytical method was successfully applied to the analysis of 100 authentic postmortem samples.
Caring for the Deaf, Hard-of-Hearing, Blind, and Low-Vision Patients in the Breast Center
Authors: Kasales Claudia J , Alkebsi Zainab A , Tong Nhien T , Stephens Anthony W
Published: September 2020

Two heterogeneous populations with widely varying needs are being increasingly encountered in breast care facilities: blind or low vision patients and deaf or hard of hearing patients. The Americans with Disabilities Act and the Rehabilitation Act mandate that all governments, businesses, and not-for-profit organizations provide effective communication to those facing hearing, vision, or speech communication disabilities and that the provided communication is equally effective as that provided to those lacking communication disabilities. It is vitally important that breast center providers understand the requirements put forth by these acts in the provision of patient care, which includes interactions with the patient as well as their family members and partner. Breast center providers must identify each patient’s individual needs and preferred method of communication. Options to assist in communication for the deaf or hard of hearing include the use of text conversations, preprinted or accessible video health care education material, and dedicated American Sign Language or video interpreters. Attention to breast imaging facility design, access to large print or braille documents, and the use of qualified readers can aid in improving access and communication for the blind or low-vision individual. All members of the breast health team, from scheduling staff to front office personnel, technologists, and breast imaging radiologists, should understand how to respectfully communicate with and identify the needs of patients facing these challenges.
Assessing the Positive Predictive Value of Architectural Distortion Detected with Digital Breast Tomosynthesis in BI-RADS 4 Cases
Authors: Dou Eda , Ksepka Martha , Dodelzon Katerina , Shingala Prapti Y , Katzen Janine T
Published: September 2020

Objective

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the positive predictive value of biopsy (PPV3) of architectural distortion (AD) detected on digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) in BI-RADS 4 cases, where suspicion for malignancy remains broad.

Methods

This Institutional Review Board-approved, retrospective study included screening and diagnostic mammograms performed from August 2015 to December 2017 with DBT and digital mammography (DM) revealing suspicious AD with a BI-RADS 4 assessment. Medical records were reviewed for clinical data, imaging, and pathology results. Malignancy rate was assessed by lesion visibility on DM and DBT. Multivariate analysis was performed to assess the odds ratio (OR) of malignancy.

Results

A total of 63/179 cases were malignant, yielding a PPV3 of 35%. No significant difference in PPV3 was found by race, personal or family history of breast cancer, presence of microcalcifications, or mammogram type. Architectural distortion was more likely to be malignant when an US correlate was present (PPV3 49% vs 19%; P < 0.0001). Multivariate analysis demonstrated a 3-fold increased OR for malignancy with an US correlate present (P = 0.005). Lesion visibility analysis revealed a higher PPV3 for AD visible on DM-DBT compared with DBT alone (44% vs 26%; P = 0.01) and when an US correlate was present (DM-DBT 54% vs 30%, P = 0.02; DBT-only 43% vs 11%, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Tomosynthesis-detected BI-RADS 4 AD are malignant in 35% of cases and are more likely to be malignant if an US correlate is present and if visible on both DM and DBT.