bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain QST713 may contribute to the management of SDHI resistance in Botrytis cinerea
Authors: Samaras Anastasios , Hadjipetrou Chloe , Karaoglanidis George
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUND

Resistance of Botrytis cinerea to SDHI fungicides is widely distributed throughout the world and is associated with mutations in sdhB, differentially affecting mutant sensitivity to several succinate dehydrogenase inhibitors (SDHI) and the fitness of the strains. This study was initiated to test the hypothesis that Bacillus amyloliquefaciens QST713 (Ba QST713) can be utilized in Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs aiming to control grey mould and eliminate sdhB mutants (H272R/Y, N230I and P225F/H/L).

RESULTS

Protective and curative applications of Ba QST713 on artificially inoculated bean plants resulted in a significant reduction of disease incidence and severity. Competition experiments between sdhB mutants and wild‐type isolates conducted either in the absence of any treatment or in the presence of Ba QST713 or fluopyram showed a dominance of sensitive strains over the mutated strains on untreated and Ba QST713‐treated plants. Additionally, the efficacy of Ba QST713 in controlling grey mould and its effects on the selection of sdhB mutants was assessed in a greenhouse experiment. The applications of Ba QST713 in alternation schemes with fluopyram provided high control efficacy and reduced SDHI resistance frequency.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the study showed that Ba QST713 can contribute both to moderate/high levels of grey mould suppression and to a reduction in SDHI resistance frequency. Thus, Ba QST713 can be an efficient tool for SDHI resistance management of B. cinerea in the field. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Determination of the δ2H values of high molecular weight lipids by high‐temperature gas chromatography coupled to isotope ratio mass spectrometry
Authors: Lengger Sabine K. , Weber Yuki , Taylor Kyle W.R. , Kopf Sebastian H. , Berstan Robert , Bull Ian D. , Mayser Jan‐Peter , Leavitt William D. , Blewett Jerome , Pearson Ann , Pancost Richard D.
Published: October 2020

Rationale

The hydrogen isotopic composition of lipids (δ2Hlipid) is widely used in food science and as a proxy for past hydrological conditions. Determining the δ2H values of large, well‐preserved triacylglycerides and other microbial lipids, such as glycerol dialkyl glycerol tetraether (GDGT) lipids, is thus of widespread interest but has so far not been possible due to their low volatility which prohibits analysis by traditional gas chromatography/pyrolysis/isotope ratio mass spectrometry (GC/P/IRMS).

Methods

We determined the δ2H values of large, polar molecules and applied high‐temperature gas chromatography (HTGC) methods on a modified GC/P/IRMS system. The system used a high‐temperature 7‐m GC column, and a glass Y‐splitter for low thermal mass. Methods were validated using authentic standards of large, functionalised molecules (triacylglycerides, TGs), purified standards of GDGTs. The results were compared with δ2H values determined by high‐temperature elemental analyser/pyrolysis/isotope ratio mass spectrometry (HTEA/P/IRMS), and subsequently applied to the analysis of GDGTs in a sample from a methane seep and a Welsh peat.

Results

The δ2H values of TGs agreed within error between HTGC/P/IRMS and HTEA/IRMS, with HTGC/P/IRMS showing larger errors. Archaeal lipid GDGTs with up to three cyclisations could be analysed: the δ2H values were not significantly different between methods with standard deviations of 5 to 6 ‰. When environmental samples were analysed, the δ2H values of isoGDGTs were 50 ‰ more negative than those of terrestrial brGDGTs.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that the HTGC/P/IRMS method developed here is appropriate to determine the δ2H values of TGs, GDGTs with up to two cyclisations, and potentially other high molecular weight compounds. The methodology will widen the current analytical window for biomarker and food light stable isotope analyses. Moreover, our initial measurements suggest that bacterial and archaeal GDGT δ2H values can record environmental and ecological conditions.
Optical Gain in Ultrathin Self‐Assembled Bi‐Layers of Colloidal Quantum Wells Enabled by the Mode Confinement in their High‐Index Dielectric Waveguides
Authors: Foroutan‐Barenji Sina , Erdem Onur , Gheshlaghi Negar , Altintas Yemliha , Demir Hilmi Volkan
Published: October 2020

This study demonstrates an ultra‐thin colloidal gain medium consisting of bi‐layers of colloidal quantum wells (CQWs) with a total film thickness of 14 nm integrated with high‐index dielectrics. To achieve optical gain from such an ultra‐thin nanocrystal film, hybrid waveguide structures partly composed of self‐assembled layers of CQWs and partly high‐index dielectric material are developed and shown: in asymmetric waveguide architecture employing one thin film of dielectric underneath CQWs and in the case of quasi‐symmetric waveguide with a pair of dielectric films sandwiching CQWs. Numerical modeling indicates that the modal confinement factor of ultra‐thin CQW films is enhanced in the presence of the adjacent dielectric layers significantly. The active slabs of these CQW monolayers in the proposed waveguide structure are constructed with great care to obtain near‐unity surface coverage, which increases the density of active particles, and to reduce the surface roughness to sub‐nm scale, which decreases the scattering losses. The excitation and propagation of amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) along these active waveguides are experimentally demonstrated and numerically analyzed. The findings of this work offer possibilities for the realization of ultra‐thin electrically driven colloidal laser devices, providing critical advantages including single‐mode lasing and high electrical conduction.
Multidimensional Anisotropic Architectures on Polymeric Microparticles
Authors: Agusil Juan Pablo , Arjona María Isabel , Duch Marta , Fusté Naüm , Plaza José A.
Published: October 2020

Next generation life science technologies will require the integration of building blocks with tunable physical and chemical architectures at the microscale. A central issue is to govern the multidimensional anisotropic space that defines these microparticle attributes. However, this control is limited to one or few dimensions due to profound fabrication tradeoffs, a problem that is exacerbated by miniaturization. Here, a vast number of anisotropic dimensions are integrated combining SU‐8 photolithography with (bio)chemical modifications via soft‐lithography. Microparticles in a 15‐D anisotropic space are demonstrated, covering branching, faceting, fiducial, topography, size, aspect ratio, stiffness, (bio)molecular and quantum dot printing, top/bottom surface coverage, and quasi‐0D, 1D, 2D, and 3D surface patterning. The strategy permits controlled miniaturization on physical dimensions below 1 µm and molecular patterns below 1 µm2. By combining building blocks, anisotropic microparticles detect pH changes, form the basis for a DNA‐assay recognition platform, and obtain an extraordinary volumetric barcoding density up to 1093 codes µm−3 in a 3 × 12 × 0.5 µm3 volume.
A Strategy for Tumor Targeting by Higher‐Order Glycan Pattern Recognition: Synthesis and In Vitro and In Vivo Properties of Glycoalbumins Conjugated with Four Different N‐Glycan Molecules
Authors: Smirnov Ivan , Sibgatullina Regina , Urano Sayaka , Tahara Tsuyoshi , Ahmadi Peni , Watanabe Yasuyoshi , Pradipta Ambara R. , Kurbangalieva Almira , Tanaka Katsunori
Published: October 2020

Natural glycoconjugates that form glycocalyx play important roles in various biological processes based on cell surface recognition through pattern recognition mechanisms. This work represents a new synthesis‐based screening strategy to efficiently target the cancer cells by higher‐order glycan pattern recognition in both cells and intact animals (mice). The use of the very fast, selective, and effective RIKEN click reaction (6π‐azaelectrocyclization of unsaturated imines) allows to synthesize and screen various structurally well‐defined glycoalbumins containing two and eventually four different N‐glycan structures in a very short time. The importance of glycan pattern recognition is exemplified in both cell‐ and mouse‐based experiments. The use of pattern recognition mechanisms for cell targeting represents a novel and promising strategy for the development of diagnostic, prophylactic, and therapeutic agents for various diseases including cancers.
Structural Engineering of SnS2Encapsulated in Carbon Nanoboxes for High‐Performance Sodium/Potassium‐Ion Batteries Anodes
Authors: Sun Qing , Li Deping , Dai Linna , Liang Zhen , Ci Lijie
Published: October 2020

Conversion‐alloying type anode materials like metal sulfides draw great attention due to their considerable theoretical capacity for sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) and potassium‐ion batteries (PIBs). However, poor conductivity, severe volume change, and harmful aggregation of the material during charge/discharge lead to unsatisfying electrochemical performance. Herein, a facile and green strategy for yolk–shell structure based on the principle of metal evaporation is proposed. SnS2nanoparticle is encapsulated in nitrogen‐doped hollow carbon nanobox (SnS2@C). The carbon nanoboxes accommodate the volume change and aggregation of SnS2during cycling, and form 3D continuous conductive carbon matrix by close contact. The well‐designed structure benefits greatly in conductivity and structural stability of the material. As expected, SnS2@C exhibits considerable capacity, superior cycling stability, and excellent rate capability in both SIBs and PIBs. Additionally, in situ Raman technology is unprecedentedly conducted to investigate the phase evolution of polysulfides. This work provides an avenue for facilely constructing stable and high‐capacity metal dichalcogenide based anodes materials with optimized structure engineering. The proposed in‐depth electrochemical measurements coupled with in situ and ex situ characterizations will provide fundamental understandings for the storage mechanism of metal dichalcogenides.
Methods and Cost Estimation for the Synthesis of Nanosized Lithium Sulfide
Authors: Yuan Kai , Yuan Lixia , Chen Jie , Xiang Jingwei , Liao Yaqi , Li Zhen , Huang Yunhui
Published: October 2020

Lithium sulfide (Li2S) is an alternative cathode material for lithium‐sulfur batteries. It can mitigate the volume expansion problem encountered by the sulfur cathode, in addition, as a fully lithium‐inserted cathode, it can be paired with lithium‐free anodes or be assembled into anode‐free batteries. However, commercially available Li2S powder delivers poor electrochemical performances due to the significant potential barrier during the first charging process, and therefore developing inexpensive synthesis route for nanosized Li2S with small diameter and low charging overpotential becomes the key to the construction of practical Li2S cathode. Herein, the preparation methods for Li2S nanoparticles are summarized, including laboratory synthesis methods and potential large‐scale preparation routes; traditional industrial synthesis methods for commercially available Li2S are also attached as references. In particular, the scalability of these methods is mentioned, and the costs of the resulted Li2S products are also estimated and compared with the currently used cathode materials for Li‐ion batteries. In the end, the commercially worthwhile research pathways for Li2S synthesis as well as the perspective on the practical production of Li2S are discussed. Useful guidance for the selection of practical Li2S synthesis routes is also provided.
Seismic experiment and performance index studies on recycled aggregate concrete filled steel tube frames infilled with recycled hollow block filler walls
Authors: Meng Ercong , Yu Yalin , Zhang Xianggang , Su Yisheng
Published: October 2020

To study the seismic behavior of recycled aggregate concrete filled steel tube (RACFST) frames infilled with recycled hollow block filler walls (RHBFW), four frame specimens were designed subjected to low cycle loading experiments. Through the test, the failure process and pattern of specimens were observed and the seismic performance indexes were obtained. The results show that the hysteretic curves of RACFST frames infilled with RHBFW are full; the equivalent viscous damping coefficientsheof specimens when destroyed both exceed 0.2, and the interlayer displacement angle is between 1/34 and 1/33 when destroyed, meaning the frame structures having good energy dissipation and good collapse resistance abilities. The RAC beam section height has little effect on the ductility and stiffness degradation of specimens; however, the bearing capacities of specimens increase gradually with the increase of beam section height. The existence of RHBFW can be the first seismic defense line of RACFST frames, and they can improve the ductility of specimens, as well as the bearing capacities and initial elastic stiffness. Before RHBFW failed, the specimens with filler wall have better energy dissipation abilities than those without filler wall. After RHBFW failed, the specimens without filler wall have better energy dissipation abilities than those with filler wall.
Perinatal outcome after planned vaginal delivery in monochorionic compared with dichorionic twin pregnancy
Authors: Schmitz T. , Korb D. , Azria E. , Garabédian C. , Rozenberg P. , Sénat M. V. , Sentilhes L. , Vayssière C. , Winer N. , Goffinet F. ,   for the JUmeaux MODe d'Accouchement (JUMODA) Study Group and the Groupe de Recherche en Obstétrique et Gynécologie (GROG)
Published: October 2020

Objective

To assess, according to chorionicity, the perinatal outcome of twin pregnancy in which vaginal delivery is planned.

Methods

JUMODA (JUmeaux MODe d'Accouchement) was a national prospective population‐based cohort study of twin pregnancies, delivered in 176 maternity units in France, from February 2014 to March 2015. In this planned secondary analysis, we assessed, according to chorionicity, the perinatal outcome of twin pregnancies, in which vaginal delivery was planned, that delivered at or after 32 weeks of gestation with the first twin in cephalic presentation. In order to select a population with well‐recognized indications for planned vaginal delivery, we applied the same exclusion criteria as those in the Twin Birth Study, an international randomized trial. Monochorionic twin pregnancies with twin‐to‐twin transfusion syndrome or twin anemia–polycythemia sequence were defined as complicated and were excluded. The primary outcome was a composite of intrapartum mortality and neonatal morbidity and mortality. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to control for potential confounders. Subgroup analyses were conducted according to birth order (first or second twin) and gestational age at delivery (< 37 or ≥ 37 weeks of gestation).

Results

Among 3873 twin pregnancies, in which vaginal delivery was planned, that delivered at ≥ 32 weeks' gestation with the first twin in cephalic presentation, meeting the inclusion criteria of the Twin Birth Study, 729 (18.8%) were uncomplicated monochorionic twin pregnancies and 3144 (81.2%) were dichorionic twin pregnancies. The rate of composite intrapartum mortality and neonatal morbidity and mortality did not differ between uncomplicated monochorionic (27/1458 (1.9%)) and dichorionic (107/6288 (1.7%)) twin pregnancies when adjusting for conception by assisted reproductive technologies (adjusted relative risk, 1.07 (95% CI, 0.66–1.75)). No significant difference in the primary outcome was found between the groups on subgroup analyses according to birth order and gestational age at delivery.

Conclusion

When vaginal delivery is planned, and delivery occurs at ≥ 32 weeks of gestation with the first twin in cephalic presentation, uncomplicated monochorionic twin pregnancy is not associated with a higher rate of composite intrapartum mortality and neonatal morbidity and mortality compared with dichorionic twin pregnancy. © 2020 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology
Ward identity for loop level soft photon theorem for massless QED coupled to gravity
Authors: Bhatkar Sayali Atul
Published: October 2020

Abstract

Motivated by Campiglia and Laddha [1], we show that the Sahoo-Sen soft photon theorem [2] for loop amplitudes is equivalent to an asymptotic conservation law. This asymptotic charge is directly related to the dressing of fields due to long range forces exclusively present in four spacetime dimensions. In presence of gravity, the new feature is that photons also acquire a dressing due to long range gravitational force and this dressing contributes to the asymptotic charge.
Erratum to: Vacuum decays around spinning black holes
Authors: Oshita Naritaka , Ueda Kazushige , Yamaguchi Masahide
Published: October 2020

However, the diagonalized metric is not exactly obtained by the transformation but is valid approximately, which was missed in the original paper. This does not affect our results and conclusion as is explained below.
Hybrid volumetric modulated arc therapy for hypofractionated radiotherapy of breast cancer: a treatment planning study
Authors: Venjakob Alexander , Oertel Michael , Hering Dominik Alexander , Moustakis Christos , Haverkamp Uwe , Eich Hans Theodor
Published: October 2020

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate the best possible practice using hybrid volumetric modulated arc therapy (H-VMAT) for hypofractionated radiation therapy of breast cancer. Different combinations of H‑VMAT—a combination of three-dimensional radiotherapy (3D-CRT) and VMAT—were analyzed regarding planning target volume (PTV), dose coverage, and exposure to organs at risk (OAR).

Methods

Planning computed tomography scans were acquired in deep-inspiration breath-hold. A total of 520 treatment plans were calculated and evaluated for 40 patients, comprising six different H‑VMAT plans and a 3D-CRT plan as reference. H‑VMAT plans consisted of two treatment plans including 3D-CRT and VMAT. During H‑VMAT planning, the use of hard wedge filters (HWF) and beam energies were varied. The reference plans were planned with mixed beam energies and the inclusion/omission of HWF.

Results

Compared to the reference treatment plans, all H‑VMAT plans showed consistently better PTV dose coverage, conformity, and homogeneity. Additionally, OAR protection was significantly improved with several H‑VMAT combinations (p < 0.05). The comparison of different H‑VMAT combinations showed that inclusion of HWF in the base plan had a negative impact on PTV dose coverage, conformity, and OAR exposure. It also increased the planned monitor units and beam-on time. Advantages of using lower beam energies (6-MV photons) in both the base plan and in the VMAT supplementary dose were observed.

Conclusion

The H‑VMAT technique is an effective possibility for generating homogenous and conformal dose distributions. With the right choice of H‑VMAT combination, superior OAR protection is achieved compared to 3D-CRT.
Adipocyte-specific deletion of Tcf7l2 induces dysregulated lipid metabolism and impairs glucose tolerance in mice
Authors: Nguyen-Tu Marie-Sophie , Martinez-Sanchez Aida , Leclerc Isabelle , Rutter Guy A. , da Silva Xavier Gabriela
Published: October 2020

Aims/hypothesis

Transcription factor 7-like 2 (TCF7L2) is a downstream effector of the Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway implicated in type 2 diabetes risk through genome-wide association studies. Although its expression is critical for adipocyte development, the potential roles of changes in adipose tissue TCF7L2 levels in diabetes risk are poorly defined. Here, we investigated whether forced changes in Tcf7l2 expression in adipocytes affect whole body glucose or lipid metabolism and crosstalk between disease-relevant tissues.

Methods

Tcf7l2 was selectively ablated in mature adipocytes in C57BL/6J mice using Cre recombinase under Adipoq promoter control to recombine Tcf7l2 alleles floxed at exon 1 (referred to as aTCF7L2 mice). aTCF7L2 mice were fed normal chow or a high-fat diet for 12 weeks. Glucose and insulin sensitivity, as well as beta cell function, were assessed in vivo and in vitro. Levels of circulating NEFA, selected hormones and adipokines were measured using standard assays.

Results

Reduced TCF7L2 expression in adipocytes altered glucose tolerance and insulin secretion in male but not in female mice. Thus, on a normal chow diet, male heterozygote knockout mice (aTCF7L2het) exhibited impaired glucose tolerance at 16 weeks (p = 0.03) and increased fat mass (1.4 ± 0.1-fold, p = 0.007) but no changes in insulin secretion. In contrast, male homozygote knockout (aTCF7L2hom) mice displayed normal body weight but impaired oral glucose tolerance at 16 weeks (p = 0.0001). These changes were mechanistically associated with impaired in vitro glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (decreased 0.5 ± 0.1-fold vs control mice, p = 0.02) and decreased levels of the incretins glucagon-like peptide-1 and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (0.6 ± 0.1-fold and 0.4 ± 0.1-fold vs control mice, p = 0.04 and p < 0.0001, respectively). Circulating levels of plasma NEFA and fatty acid binding protein 4 were increased by 1.3 ± 0.1-fold and 1.8 ± 0.3-fold vs control mice (p = 0.03 and p = 0.05, respectively). Following exposure to a high-fat diet for 12 weeks, male aTCF7L2hom mice exhibited reduced in vivo glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (0.5 ± 0.1-fold vs control mice, p = 0.02).

Conclusions/interpretation

Loss of Tcf7l2 gene expression selectively in adipocytes leads to a sexually dimorphic phenotype, with impairments not only in adipocytes, but also in pancreatic islet and enteroendocrine cells in male mice only. Our findings suggest novel roles for adipokines and incretins in the effects of diabetes-associated variants in TCF7L2, and further illuminate the roles of TCF7L2 in glucose homeostasis and diabetes risk.
Abusive head trauma: experience improves diagnosis
Authors: Porto Luciana , Bartels Marco Baz , Zwaschka Jonas , You Se-Jong , Polkowski Christoph , Luetkens Julian , Endler Christoph , Kieslich Matthias , Hattingen Elke
Published: October 2020

Purpose

The diagnosis of abusive head trauma (AHT) is complex and neuroimaging plays a crucial role. Our goal was to determine whether non-neuroradiologists with standard neuroradiology knowledge perform as well as neuroradiologists with experience in pediatric neuroimaging in interpreting MRI in cases of presumptive AHT (pAHT).

Methods

Twenty children were retrospectively evaluated. Patients had been diagnosed with pAHT (6 patients), non-abusive head trauma-NAHT (5 patients), metabolic diseases (3 patients), and benign enlargement of the subarachnoid spaces (BESS) (6 patients). The MRI was assessedblindly, i.e., no clinical history was given to the 3 non-neuroradiologists and 3 neuroradiologists from 2 different institutions.

Results

Blindly, neuroradiologists demonstrated higher levels of sensitivity and positive predictive value in the diagnosis of pAHT (89%) than non-neuroradiologists (50%). Neuroradiologists chose correctly pAHT as the most probable diagnosis 16 out of 18 times; in contrast, non-neuroradiologists only chose 9 out of 18 times. In our series, the foremost important misdiagnosis for pAHT was NAHT (neuroradiologists twice and non-neuroradiologists 5 times). Only victims of motor vehicle accidents were blindly misdiagnosed as pAHT. No usual household NAHT was not misdiagnosed as pAHT. Neuroradiologists correctly ruled out pAHT in all cases of metabolic diseases and BESS.

Conclusion

MRI in cases of suspected AHT should be evaluated by neuroradiologists with experience in pediatric neuroimaging. Neuroradiologists looked beyond the subdural hemorrhage (SDH) and were more precise in the assessment of pAHT and its differential diagnosis than non-neuroradiologists were. It seems that non-neuroradiologists mainly assess whether or not a pAHT is present depending on the presence or absence of SDH.
Thrombocytopenia and the effect of platelet transfusions on the occurrence of intracranial hemorrhage in patients with acute leukemia – a nested case-control study
Authors: Cornelissen Loes L. , Kreuger Aukje L. , Caram-Deelder Camila , Middelburg Rutger A. , Kerkhoffs Jean Louis H. , von dem Borne Peter A. , Beckers Erik A. M. , de Vooght Karen M. K. , Kuball Jürgen , Zwaginga J. J. , van der Bom Johanna G.
Published: October 2020

We designed a study to describe the incidence of intracranial hemorrhage according to severity and duration of thrombocytopenia and to quantify the associations of platelet transfusions with intracranial hemorrhage in patients with acute leukemia. In this case-control study nested in a cohort of 859 leukemia patients, cases (n = 17) were patients diagnosed with intracranial hemorrhage who were matched with control patients (n = 55). We documented platelet counts and transfusions for seven days before the intracranial hemorrhage in cases and in a “matched” week for control patients. Three measures of platelet count exposure were assessed in four potentially important time periods before hemorrhage. Among these leukemia patients, we observed the cumulative incidence of intracranial hemorrhage of 3.5%. Low platelet counts were, especially in the three to seven days preceding intracranial hemorrhage, associated with the incidence of intracranial hemorrhage, although with wide confidence intervals. Platelet transfusions during the week preceding the hemorrhage were associated with higher incidences of intracranial hemorrhage; rate ratios (95% confidence interval) for one or two platelet transfusions and for more than two transfusions compared with none were 4.04 (0.73 to 22.27) and 8.91 (1.53 to 51.73) respectively. Thus, among acute leukemia patients, the risk of intracranial hemorrhage was higher among patients with low platelet counts and after receiving more platelet transfusions. Especially, the latter is likely due to clinical factors leading to increased transfusion needs.
A low order dynamical model for runoff predictability
Authors: Olson Roman , Timmermann Axel , Lee June-Yi , An Soon-Il
Published: October 2020

Recent work has identified potential multi-year predictability in soil moisture (Chikamoto et al. in Clim Dyn 45(7–8):2213–2235, 2015). Whether this long-term predictability translates into an extended predictability of runoff still remains an open question. To address this question we develop a physically-based zero-dimensional stochastical dynamical model. The model extends previous work of Dolgonosov and Korchagin (Water Resour 34(6):624–634, 2007) by including a runoff-generating soil moisture threshold. We consider several assumptions on the input rainfall noise. We analyze the applicability of analytical solutions for the stationary probability density functions (pdfs) and for waiting times for runoff under different assumptions. Our results suggest that knowing soil moisture provides important information on the waiting time for runoff. In addition, we fit the simple model to daily NCEP1 reanalysis output on a near-global scale, and analyze fitted model performance. Over many tropical regions, the model reproduces the simulated runoff in NCEP1 reasonably well. More detailed analysis over a single gridpoint illustrates that the model, despite its simplicity, is able to capture some key features of the runoff time series and pdfs of a more complex model. Our model exhibits runoff predictability of up to two months in advance. Our results suggest that there is an optimal predictability “window” in the transition zone between runoff-generating and dry conditions. Our model can serve as a “null hypothesis” model reference against more complex models for runoff predictability.
A single tree model to consistently simulate cooling, shading, and pollution uptake of urban trees
Authors: Pace Rocco , De Fino Francesco , Rahman Mohammad A. , Pauleit Stephan , Nowak David J. , Grote Rüdiger
Published: October 2020

Extremely high temperatures, which negatively affect the human health and plant performances, are becoming more frequent in cities. Urban green infrastructure, particularly trees, can mitigate this issue through cooling due to transpiration, and shading. Temperature regulation by trees depends on feedbacks among the climate, water supply, and plant physiology. However, in contrast to forest or general ecosystem models, most current urban tree models still lack basic processes, such as the consideration of soil water limitation, or have not been evaluated sufficiently. In this study, we present a new model that couples the soil water balance with energy calculations to assess the physiological responses and microclimate effects of a common urban street-tree species (Tilia cordataMill.) on temperature regulation. We contrast two urban sites in Munich, Germany, with different degree of surface sealing at which microclimate and transpiration had been measured. Simulations indicate that differences in wind speed and soil water supply can be made responsible for the differences in transpiration. Nevertheless, the calculation of the overall energy balance showed that the shading effect, which depends on the leaf area index and canopy cover, contributes the most to the temperature reduction at midday. Finally, we demonstrate that the consideration of soil water availability for stomatal conductance has realistic impacts on the calculation of gaseous pollutant uptake (e.g., ozone). In conclusion, the presented model has demonstrated its ability to quantify two major ecosystem services (temperature mitigation and air pollution removal) consistently in dependence on meteorological and site conditions.
Regular generalized solutions to semilinear wave equations
Authors: Deguchi Hideo , Oberguggenberger Michael
Published: October 2020

The paper is devoted to proving an existence and uniqueness result for generalized solutions to semilinear wave equations with a small nonlinearity in space dimensions 1, 2, 3. The setting is the one of Colombeau algebras of generalized functions. It is shown that for a nonlinearity of arbitrary growth and sign, but multiplied with a small parameter, the initial value problem for the semilinear wave equation has a unique solution in the Colombeau algebra of generalized functions of bounded type. The proof relies on a fixed point theorem in the ultra-metric topology on the algebras involved. In classical terms, the result says that the semilinear wave equations under consideration have global classical solutions up to a rapidly vanishing error.
Comparison of supportive regulatory measures for pediatric medical device development in Japan and the United States
Authors: Takahashi Sara , Iwasaki Kiyotaka , Shirato Haruki , Ho Mami , Umezu Mitsuo
Published: October 2020

Further development of medical devices for children is required in Japan, but the development of such devices is delayed compared to that of medical devices for adults. Herein, we investigated policies for advancing the development of pediatric medical devices in Japan and the United States. Considering the achievements of each policy, we proposed a strategy to promote further development of pediatric medical devices in Japan. We investigated policies for supporting the development of pediatric medical devices and approved cases in Japan and the United States by searching contents of websites of regulatory bodies and other related administrations, and scientific papers. We found the main six policies in Japan and nine main policies in the United States for the development of pediatric medical devices. In the United States, various measures have initiated mainly in the 2000s, while in Japan, the main measures have been in place since 2013. Similarities were found in both countries, such as subsidies for application fees and research and development expenses, exemption of requirements for regulatory approval, and priority review and consultation by the regulatory body. Our study revealed that there are similarities in initiatives by both countries. To promote further development of pediatric medical devices in the future, improvements to expediting the review process to approval by the regulatory body, global development, and implementation of alternative measures to ensure the efficacy and safety of the device instead of large-scale clinical trials should be anticipated through cooperation among industry, government, and academia.
The EUMETNET AutoPollen programme: establishing a prototype automatic pollen monitoring network in Europe
Authors: Clot Bernard , Gilge Stefan , Hajkova Lenka , Magyar Donát , Scheifinger Helfried , Sofiev Mikhail , Bütler Fabienne , Tummon Fiona
Published: October 2020

Operational pollen monitoring networks have developed across Europe, and the world more generally, in response to the increasing prevalence of pollen allergy and asthma. Routine pollen observations are in large part currently still based on time-intensive manual techniques developed in the 1950s. These methods suffer from low temporal resolution and long delays in data availability. Recent technological developments are revolutionising the field making real-time high-temporal resolution measurements possible. This paper describes the rationale behind the EUMETNET AutoPollen programme, which aims to develop a prototype automatic pollen monitoring network across Europe. We provide a brief description of the current state-of-the-art, then an overview of new technologies, and finally the main tasks of the AutoPollen programme.
The Role of Adolescents’ and Their Parents’ Temperament Types in Adolescents’ Academic Emotions: A Goodness-of-Fit Approach
Authors: Lahdelma Pinja , Tolonen Maria , Kiuru Noona , Hirvonen Riikka
Published: October 2020

Background

Academic emotions (e.g., enjoyment of learning or anxiety) play a significant role in academic performance and educational choices. An important factor explaining academic emotions can be students’ temperament and the goodness-of-fit between their temperament and their social environment, including parents.

Objective

This study investigated the unique and interactive effects of early adolescents’ and their parents’ temperament types on adolescents’ academic emotions in literacy and mathematics.

Method

The participants in the study consisted of 690 adolescent–parent dyads. Parents rated their own and their adolescents’ temperaments, and adolescents reported their positive and negative emotions in literacy and mathematics.

Results

The results showed that adolescents’ temperament type was significantly related to their negative emotions in both school subjects. Adolescents with an undercontrolled temperament reported more anger compared to adolescents with a resilient or overcontrolled temperament, and more anxiety, shame, and hopelessness compared to resilient adolescents. In addition, undercontrolled adolescents reported more boredom in mathematics than resilient or overcontrolled adolescents. The parents’ temperament type was related to positive emotions. Adolescents of resilient parents reported greater pride in mathematics than adolescents of undercontrolled or overcontrolled parents and higher hope in mathematics than adolescents of overcontrolled parents. Finally, overcontrolled adolescents with a resilient or overcontrolled parent reported higher enjoyment of mathematics and literacy in comparison to overcontrolled adolescents with an undercontrolled parent.

Conclusions

The findings of the study provide new knowledge about the role of temperament in the school context by showing that differences in temperamental reactivity and regulation relate to adolescents’ academic emotions.
An alternative material for an effective treatment technique proposal in the light of bibliometric profile of global scientific research on antibiotic resistance and Escherichia coli
Authors: Şahin Semanur , Akpinar Isil , Sivri Nüket
Published: October 2020

Antibiotic resistance is considered by the countries to be a global health issue and a huge threat to public health. The reduction of resistant microorganisms from water/wastewater is of importance in environmental sciences since they are resistant in the aquatic environment. In this study, a bibliometric analysis of literature from the field of environmental science in water ecosystems from 2015 to 2019 was carried out using the keywords “Antibiotic Resistance (AR)” and “Escherichia coli”. Furthermore, using the keywords of “Fresh Water,” “Sea Water,” and “Waste Water,” 155, 52, and 57 studies were discovered, respectively. It is found that 217 studies of the total 2115 studies investigated on AR are mostly performed in the “Waste Water” by considering human health. Given the studies, an up-to-date solution should be proposed since the release of antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) from wastewater treatment plants needs to be mitigated. For this reason, it is obvious that working on micro and macro ecosystems will increase the probability of solutions in antibiotic resistance. A discussion of removal techniques for coliform bacteria, particularly antibiotic resistant Escherichia coli, was presented. One of the unique values of this study is to offer an innovative solution that removing them by metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are emerging crystalline hybrid materials. MOFs are used for environmental, biological, and food antimicrobial substances efficiently. Therefore, we can give inspiration to the future studies of antimicrobial resistance removal via adsorption using MOFs as adsorbents.
Transparency as design publicity: explaining and justifying inscrutable algorithms
Authors: Loi Michele , Ferrario Andrea , Viganò Eleonora
Published: October 2020

In this paper we argue that transparency of machine learning algorithms, just as explanation, can be defined at different levels of abstraction. We criticize recent attempts to identify the explanation of black box algorithms with making their decisions (post-hoc) interpretable, focusing our discussion on counterfactual explanations. These approaches to explanation simplify the real nature of the black boxes and risk misleading the public about the normative features of a model. We propose a new form of algorithmic transparency, that consists in explaining algorithms as an intentional product, that serves a particular goal, or multiple goals (Daniel Dennet’s design stance) in a given domain of applicability, and that provides a measure of the extent to which such a goal is achieved, and evidence about the way that measure has been reached. We call such idea of algorithmic transparency “design publicity.” We argue that design publicity can be more easily linked with the justification of the use and of the design of the algorithm, and of each individual decision following from it. In comparison to post-hoc explanations of individual algorithmic decisions, design publicity meets a different demand (the demand for impersonal justification) of the explainee. Finally, we argue that when models that pursue justifiable goals (which may include fairness as avoidance of bias towards specific groups) to a justifiable degree are used consistently, the resulting decisions are all justified even if some of them are (unavoidably) based on incorrect predictions. For this argument, we rely on John Rawls’s idea of procedural justice applied to algorithms conceived as institutions.
On the origin and dispersal of cultivated spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.)
Authors: Ribera Arnau , van Treuren Rob , Kik Chris , Bai Yuling , Wolters Anne-Marie A.
Published: October 2020

Spinach (Spinacia oleraceaL.) is an economically important crop that is cultivated and consumed worldwide. Spinach is interfertile with the wild speciesS. tetrandraSteven ex M. Bieb. andS. turkestanicaIljin that therefore are presumed to include the most likely crop ancestor. Here we studied variation in 60 Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNP) previously identified inS. oleraceato address the issue of crop ancestry and domestication region. For this purpose we investigated 95 accessions, including 54 spinach landraces from a wide geographic area in Europe and Asia and 16S. tetrandraand 25S. turkestanicapopulations of which the majority had only recently become available. Compared toS. tetrandrasubstantially higher levels of amplification success and higher levels of variation were detected forS. turkestanica, indicating thatS. oleraceais genetically closer toS. turkestanicathan toS. tetrandra. Our phylogenetic and population structure analysis supported the conclusion thatS. turkestanicais the most likely ancestor of cultivated spinach. In addition, these analyses revealed a group ofS. oleracealandraces from Eastern and Southern Asia with a strong genetic resemblance toS. turkestanica. This group includes landraces from Afghanistan and Pakistan, which are part of the native distribution range ofS. turkestanica. The domestication of spinach may therefore have occurred more eastwards than generally assumed. Furthermore, our study provides support for the hypothesis that after domestication, spinach was introduced into China via Nepal. Additional collecting of spinach landraces is recommended in order to allow the more precise reconstruction of the crop migration routes.
Parental Licensing as Harm Reduction
Authors: Shields Liam
Published: October 2020

In this paper, I will argue that some prominent objections to parental licensing rely on dubious claims about the existence of a very stringent, if not indefeasible, right to parent, which would be violated by licensing. I claim that attaching such stringency to the right only makes sense if we make a number of idealising assumptions. Otherwise, it is deeply implausible. Instead, I argue that we should evaluate parental licensing policies in much the same way we would harm reduction policies. By adopting this critical perspective, we can see that there are powerful, but quite different, reasons to be cautious about parental licensing relating to our ability to minimize the harmful effects of mass-parenting in a world of minimal surveillance and intervention.
IRAK4 Deficiency Presenting with Anti-NMDAR Encephalitis and HHV6 Reactivation
Authors: Nishimura Shiho , Kobayashi Yoshiyuki , Ohnishi Hidenori , Moriya Kunihiko , Tsumura Miyuki , Sakata Sonoko , Mizoguchi Yoko , Takada Hidetoshi , Kato Zenichiro , Sancho-Shimizu Vanessa , Picard Capucine , Irani Sarosh R. , Ohara Osamu , Casanova Jean-Laurent , Puel Anne , Ishikawa Nobutsune , Okada Satoshi , Kobayashi Masao
Published: October 2020

IRAK4 deficiency is an inborn error of immunity predisposing patients to invasive pyogenic infections. Currently, there is no established simple assay that enables precise characterization of IRAK4 mutant alleles in isolation. Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) encephalitis is an autoimmune condition that is characterized by psychiatric symptoms, involuntary movement, seizures, autonomic dysfunction, and central hypoventilation. It typically occurs in adult females associated with tumors. Only a few infantile cases with anti-NMDAR encephalitis have been so far reported. We identified a 10-month-old boy with IRAK4 deficiency presenting with anti-NMDAR encephalitis and human herpes virus 6 (HHV6) reactivation. The diagnosis of IRAK4 deficiency was confirmed by the identification of compound heterozygous mutations c.29_30delAT (p.Y10Cfs*9) and c.35G>C (p.R12P) in the IRAK4 gene, low levels of IRAK4 protein expression in peripheral blood, and defective fibroblastic cell responses to TLR and IL-1 (TIR) agonist. We established a novel NF-κB reporter assay using IRAK4-null HEK293T, which enabled the precise evaluation of IRAK4 mutations. Using this system, we confirmed that both novel mutations identified in the patient are deleterious. Our study provides a new simple and reliable method to analyze IRAK4 mutant alleles. It also suggests the possible link between inborn errors of immunity and early onset anti-NMDAR encephalitis.
Carsharing-facilitating neighbourhood choice: a mixed logit model
Authors: Wang Juan , Dane Gamze Z. , Timmermans Harry J. P.
Published: October 2020

Carsharing-facilitating neighbourhood is an emerging concept in urban development that combines carsharing, sustainable transportation-residential planning, and attractive housing to reduce private car use and improve neighbourhood quality. To investigate residents’ preferences for such neighbourhoods, a stated choice experiment was designed that systematically varied attributes of carsharing-facilitating neighbourhoods to elicit their utility for people with a particular socio-demographic profile. The survey was conducted among residents who currently live in densely populated urban areas in The Netherlands. In total, 610 valid responses were obtained for analysis. To derive the utility of carsharing-facilitating neighbourhoods of a particular profile, a mixed logit model was estimated. Results indicate that the utility of a carsharing-facilitating neighbourhood primarily depends on carsharing cost, required carsharing booking time, green space density, housing costs, housing type, housing size and housing building year. Besides, the utility varies with socio-demographic characteristics, such as age, household composition, net monthly income, work status and education level. The estimated results can help policymakers and real estate developers understand the contribution of particular factors to the utility of carsharing-facilitating neighbourhoods, and determine target groups to develop implementation strategies.
“Human Habitation or Economic Life of their Own”: The Definition of Features Between History, Technology and the Law
Authors: Faccio Sondra
Published: October 2020

Article 121(3) of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) establishes the regime of geographical features. It distinguishes the island from rocks, by defining the former as a naturally formed area of land, surrounded by water, which is above water at high tide; the latter as features ‘which cannot sustain human habitation or economic life of their own.’ The nature of the feature impacts on the sovereign rights recognized to the coastal States: if the feature is qualified as an island, it entitles the coastal State to 200 miles of exclusive economic zone and continental shelf, with undisputed right of exclusive exploitation of natural resources located within the area. By contrast, if the feature is qualified as a rock, the coastal State is only entitled to the territorial sea. Article 121(3) of UNCLOS and the formula ‘rocks which cannot sustain human habitation or economic life of their own’ have been subject to substantive interpretation for the first time by an international tribunal in The South China Sea Arbitration (Philippines v. China) Award. Starting from this Award, the present paper explores further the requisites of ‘human habitation or economic life’ and discusses what value shall be attributed to the technological development vis à vis historical excursus. The paper will review relevant States’ practice, scholarly works and tribunals’ decisions in the field and discuss how far (if any) could technological means go to support a feature’s capacity.