bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influences of methane and propane on the explosion characteristics of polymethyl methacrylate and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene dusts
Authors: Cheng Jianwei , Qi Chang , Zhang Jing , Zhao Peitao , Qin Yi , Wang Yue , Zhao Gang , Gao Ke
Published: October 2021

Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene copolymers (ABS) are widely applied to industrial production, with the risk of explosion mixed with combustible gas increasing gradually. A 20 L spherical explosive device was used to study the variation pattern of the explosion characteristics of four gas–dust mixtures: methane/PMMA, methane/ABS, propane/PMMA, and propane/ABS mixtures. The results showed that despite adding methane and propane, PMMA and ABS dusts within the range of minimum explosion concentration are still likely to explode. The comparative analysis shows that propane is more chemically reactive than methane and PMMA and ABS dusts mixed with propane are more dangerous than those mixed with methane. Meanwhile, it was found that as the concentration of methane and propane increases, the maximum explosion pressure Pmax, maximum explosion pressure rise rate (dP/dt)max, and explosive index K of the dusts rise as well, but the increasing trend remains steady. The single‐phase methane and propane have higher maximum explosion pressure and explosive index than the gas–dust mixture, with the lowest maximum explosion pressure and explosive index found in the single‐phase PMMA and ABS dusts. With methane and propane mixed, the explosion hazard of PMMA and ABS dusts is intensified from St1 to St3. This study reveals the explosion characteristics of PMMA and ABS dusts, providing a basis for ensuring a safe working environment, preventing and controlling explosion accidents, and reducing the destructiveness of accidents.
Modifying superparamagnetic iron oxide and silica nanoparticles surfaces for efficient (MA)LDI‐MS analyses of peptides and proteins
Authors: Maghari Shokoofeh , Reimhult Erik , Ghezellou Parviz , Ghassempour Alireza
Published: October 2021

Rationale

Surface functionalization is considered to be the foundation for developing nanomaterial applications in matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI‐MS) analyses. However, the surface properties of nanostructures can influence their interaction with the analyte and consequently the mass data. In the present study, functionalized nanoparticles (NPs) were used for MALDI‐MS and laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (LDI‐MS) experiments in order to evaluate the effect of the surface properties of NPs on tailoring the intensity of mass signals.

Methods

Regarding the LDI‐MS analyses, the surface of superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) was coated with nitrosonium tetrafluoroborate, citric acid, nitrodopamine, and gallic acid. Additionally, the SPIONs were applied as a matrix to analyze three small peptides. In the MALDI‐MS analyses, silica NPs were selected as co‐matrix and functionalized with cysteine, sulfobetaine, and amine alkoxysilanes. Then, the silica NPs were utilized as additives in the MALDI‐MS samples of four proteins in a mass range between ~2000 and 60,000 Da.

Results

The results of LDI‐MS analyses demonstrated more than one order enhancement in the signal intensity of analytes based on the amount of electrostatic interaction and laser energy absorption by the surface ligands. However, those of MALDI‐MS experiments indicated a significant signal improvement when achieving the colloidal stability of silica NPs in the matrix solution.

Conclusions

Based on the results, the surface properties of NPs affected the (MA)LDI‐MS analyses indispensably. Finally, the functionalization of SPIONs represented a new model for the future development of NPs with both affinity and enhanced ionization abilities in mass spectrometry.
Spontaneous improvement of interstitial pneumonia with autoimmune features: A case report
Authors: Ohkubo Hirotsugu , Nakano Akiko , Fujita Kohei , Ozawa Yoshiyuki , Murase Takayuki , Niimi Akio
Published: October 2021

Interstitial pneumonia with autoimmune features (IPAF) was proposed to describe patients with interstitial lung disease who do not meet the classification criteria for a defined connective tissue disease. Here, we report a spontaneous improvement case of IPAF. A 58‐year‐old man developed dry cough and dyspnoea. Positive result was obtained for the anti‐centromere antibody. High‐resolution computed tomography (HRCT) showed reticular abnormalities and ground‐glass opacities. Cryobiopsy specimens revealed cellular non‐specific interstitial pneumonia. The patient displayed periungual erythema and nail fold bleeding, but no sclerosis. He did not meet the criteria for systemic scleroderma, but did meet those for IPAF. Because symptoms slightly improved, the patient declined immunosuppressive treatment. After 6 months, repeated HRCT showed an apparent reduction in the area of ground‐glass opacities. The forced vital capacity improved from 2.72 to 3.47 L and serum Krebs von den Lungen (KL)‐6 decreased from 1977 to 531 U/ml, and symptoms disappeared.
Comparison of extraperitoneal laparoscopic and extraperitoneal Senhance radical prostatectomy
Authors: Kulis Tomislav , Hudolin Tvrtko , Penezic Luka , Zekulic Toni , Saic Hrvoje , Knezevic Nikola , Kastelan Zeljko
Published: October 2021

Background

Senhance is novel robotic platform which can be used to perform radical prostatectomy (RP). We compare our results of robotic RP to similar patients operated with laparoscopic technique.

Patients and methods

A prospective study of 61 patients operated laparoscopically and 107 patients operated using the Senhance robotic system. We have analysed operative and postoperative results in both groups.

Results

There was no difference in the operative time, estimated blood loss, positive surgical margins, length of hospitalisation and catheterisation. There were 4 (6.5%) Clavien–Dindo grade I complications, and 5 (8.1%) late complications in laparoscopy. There were 6 (5.6%) Clavien–Dindo grade I, 3 (2.8%) grade II, 1 (0.9%) grade IV complications and 2 (1.9%) late complications in robotic group.

Conclusion

Senhance robot‐assisted RP is safe, feasible and offers good and comparable functional and oncological outcomes to laparoscopy. The transition to robotic surgery with a relatively fast learning curve can be done effectively for surgeons with previous laparoscopic experience.
Controllable Synthesis and Luminescence Properties of Zn2GeO4 : Mn2+ Nanorod Phosphors
Authors: Cui Zheng , Deng Guowei , Wang Ou , Luo Xiaolan , Li Zhonghui , Yang Min , Cheng Shaoheng , Liu Xiaoyang
Published: October 2021

In this study, color tunable phosphors (Mn2+‐doped Zn2GeO4) were successfully synthesized by a facile microwave hydrothermal process with H2O as solvent. Crystal field modulation and band gap doping by Mn2+ substitution for Zn2+ realizes color tunable Mn2+ emission from 424 to 535 nm. Mn2+‐doping on the phase and size transition of Zn2GeO4 nanocrystals was discussed, and a possible Zn2GeO4 : xMn crystal growth mechanism is discussed. Photoluminescence (PL) spectra indicate that the d‐d transition of manganese ions (4T1→6A1) corresponds to a strong green emission of Zn2GeO4 : xMn phosphors.
Enhanced Efficiency and Excellent Thermostability in Organic Photovoltaics via Ternary Strategy with Twisted Conjugated Compound
Authors: Zhang Lifu , Zhao Heng , Hu Ming , Wang Xinkang , Hu Lei , Mao Houdong , Yuan Zhongyi , Ma Wei , Chen Yiwang
Published: October 2021

The thermal stability of high‐efficiency organic photovoltaics (OPVs) is critical to the manufacturing of this technology. Therefore, targeted strategies and approaches shall be developed to improve efficiency and stability, simultaneously. Herein, a seleno twisted benzodiperylenediimides (TBD‐PDI‐Se) acceptor‐doping strategy is taken advantage of to demonstrate the ternary bulk heterojunction OPVs with excellent stability, achieving outstanding power conversion efficiency of 14.43% and 17.25% based on PM6:IT‐4F and PM6:Y6 ternary blend devices, respectively, which are superior to the corresponding binary devices. As evidenced by the active layer morphology, exciton dynamic study and the characterizations of the enabled device, the ternary blend device keeps nearly 90% original efficiency (t = 1000 h) under continuous constant heating at 140 °C. Furthermore, the application of acceptor as the third component in PBDB‐T:ITIC, J71:ITIC, and PBDB‐T:PC71BM systems is also verified, proving the good universality of acceptor‐doping ternary strategy.
Control of the Surface Disorder by Ion‐Exchange to Achieve High Open‐Circuit Voltage in HC(NH2)2PbI3 Perovskite Solar Cell
Authors: Chen Siqi , Wang Jin , Ran Guangliu , Pan Qingyan , Liu Le , Zhao Chengjie , Tang Jin , Zhao Min , Zhang Wenkai , Zhao Yingjie , Jiu Tonggang
Published: October 2021

The ionic nature of organic trihalide perovskite leads to structural irregularity and energy disorder at the perovskite surface, which seriously affects the photovoltaic performance of perovskite solar cells. Here, the origin of the perovskite surface disorder is analyzed, and a facial ion‐exchange strategy is designed to regulate the surface chemical environment. By the reconstruction of terminal irregular Pb–I bonds and random cations, the repaired surface is characteristic of the reduced band tail states, consequent to the suppression of the uplift of quasi‐Fermi level splitting and photocarrier scattering. The optimized device gets a high open‐circuit voltage and operational stability. These findings fully elaborate the underlying mechanism concerning perovskite surface problem, giving guidance on tailoring the energy disorder.
A Comprehensive Workflow for High Resolution 3D Solar Photovoltaic Potential Mapping in Dense Urban Environment: A Case Study on Campus of Delft University of Technology
Authors: Zhou Yilong , Verkou Maarten , Zeman Miro , Ziar Hesan , Isabella Olindo
Published: October 2021

Photovoltaic (PV) technology is the most promising renewable energy source to be integrated on urban building surfaces. Modeling and simulating urban PV systems pose more challenges than the conventional ones installed in open field due to rich urban morphology. Herein, a comprehensive workflow to estimate urban solar PV potential is developed where TU Delft campus is used as a case study. This workflow only requires light detection and ranging data and building footprints as data inputs, and multiple levels of result can be delivered including accurate geo‐referenced 3D building models, annual solar irradiation map, annual DC/AC yield maps and classified roof segments according to the specific yield of mounted PV system. The study reports a total of ≈8.1 GWh year−1of PV energy which can be collected from campus building roofs and facades. Given the total electricity demand on the entire campus being 82.6 GWh/year, this PV potential can cover roughly 10% of the current electricity demand. The results constitute an initial assessment of solar PV potential on TU Delft campus buildings that is currently being used to prioritize PV integration on buildings and accelerate the transition toward a climate‐neutral campus.
Plasmonic Metal Nanoparticles for Artificial Photosynthesis: Advancements, Mechanisms, and Perspectives
Authors: Du Xiaoyu , Liu Lequan , Ye Jinhua
Published: October 2021

Plasmonic metal nanoparticles (PNPs) have been proven effective in improving the performance of semiconductor photocatalysts for artificial photosynthesis (AP). It brings about more light absorption for catalysts and new pathways for chemical reactions, which shows great potential in solar energy conversion. To see the current status and possible development of this material in AP reactions, including photocatalytic water splitting and CO2 reduction, the important advances in this field based on particulate photocatalysts containing PNPs are reviewed. Relevant mechanisms proposed in literature are also summarized. In the end, perspectives and outlook on the development of PNPs in AP are presented.
Thermally Stable All‐Perovskite Tandem Solar Cells Fully Using Metal Oxide Charge Transport Layers and Tunnel Junction
Authors: Gao Han , Lu Qianwen , Xiao Ke , Han Qiaolei , Lin Renxing , Liu Zhou , Li Hongjiang , Li Ludong , Luo Xin , Gao Yuan , Wang Yurui , Wen Jin , Zou Zhigang , Zhou Yong , Tan Hairen
Published: October 2021

All‐perovskite tandem solar cells offer a promising avenue to go beyond the efficiency limit of single‐junction devices. Their efficiencies have been increasing rapidly in the past few years; however, their commercial viability is hindered by the instability under thermal stressing. Herein, comprehensive device design strategies are proposed to achieve thermally stable all‐perovskite tandem solar cells while retaining the advantages of solution processing. Metal oxides, i.e., NiOx and SnO2, are used for the hole and electron transport layers in both wide bandgap and narrow subcells. The metal‐based recombination layer is replaced with a stable and conductive indium tin oxide nanocrystals film to fabricate an all metal‐oxide‐based tunnel junction. Based on those design strategies, the encapsulated all‐perovskite tandem solar cells retained 85% of their initial efficiency after stressing at 85 °C for 2500 h and maintained >80% of their initial performance after 900 h operation at the maximum power point and operating temperature of ≈65 °C. Achieving such thermal stability represents a crucial step toward commercial viability of all‐perovskite tandem solar cells.
An Organic Cathode Material S‐3Q@MWCNT with Monoelectrochemical Conversion Phase for Highly Reversible Lithium Batteries
Authors: He Zhipeng , Zhang Jingjing , Guo Xiumei , Kang Hai , Wang Zhihua , Liu Yilin , Wang Minghua , Zhang Hanping
Published: October 2021

A facile strategy to synthesize organic cathode material using triquinoxaline (3Q) and elemental sulfur (S) is reported. The 3Q material is a kind of multiredox phase‐transiting composite with a theoretical specific capacity of 418 mA h g−1 and a poor cycling performance. By adding S to 3Q@multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) at 165 °C with a mass ratio of 1:4, S and 3Q are chemically matched to form an organic composite S‐3Q@MWCNT. Interestingly, it is found that the as‐prepared sample exhibits a single‐electrochemical phase transition with a higher specific capacity of 608 mA h g−1 at 0.1C rate. The mass ratio of 1:4 indicates that the capacity of S is equal to the capacity of 3Q, and the monoredox conversion phase suggests that S and 3Q are electrochemically matched. These results show that the chemical matching point is consistent with the electrochemical matching point. The as‐prepared S‐3Q@MWCNT composite presents a good cycling performance. In the absence of any additives, especially without the assistance of coated separators, the coulombic efficiency is stable at around 100% for 400 cycles. It is believed that the monophase redox process of the as‐prepared S‐3Q@MWCNT improves the cycling performance.
Valid two‐sample graph testing via optimal transport Procrustes and multiscale graph correlation with applications in connectomics
Authors: Chung Jaewon , Varjavand Bijan , Arroyo‐Relión Jesús , Alyakin Anton , Agterberg Joshua , Tang Minh , Priebe Carey E. , Vogelstein Joshua T.
Published: October 2021

Testing whether two graphs come from the same distribution is of interest in many real‐world scenarios, including brain network analysis. Under the random dot product graph model, the nonparametric hypothesis testing framework consists of embedding the graphs using the adjacency spectral embedding (ASE), followed by aligning the embeddings using the median flip heuristic and finally applying the nonparametric maximum mean discrepancy (MMD) test to obtain a p value. Using synthetic data generated from Drosophila brain networks, we show that the median flip heuristic results in an invalid test and demonstrate that optimal transport Procrustes (OTP) for alignment resolves the invalidity. We further demonstrate that substituting the MMD test with the multiscale graph correlation (MGC) test leads to a more powerful test both in synthetic and in simulated data. Lastly, we apply this powerful test to the right and left hemispheres of the larval Drosophila mushroom body brain networks and conclude that there is not sufficient evidence to reject the null hypothesis that the two hemispheres are equally distributed.
Self‐Sustained Marangoni Flows Driven by Chemical Reactions
Authors: Nguindjel Anne‐Déborah C. , Korevaar Peter A.
Published: October 2021

The front cover artwork is provided by Anne‐Déborah Nguindjel and Peter A. Korevaar, Radboud University. The image represents the concept of self‐sustained Marangoni flows. These flows bring the fuel to the reaction center, to keep the flow “alive” in its out‐of‐equilibrium state.. Read the full text of the Article at 10.1002/syst.202100021.
Erratum to: On the supersymmetric solutions of the Heterotic Superstring effective action
Authors: Fontanella Andrea , Ortín Tomás
Published: October 2021

A correction to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1007/JHEP06(2020)106
Ultrashort echo time MRI of the lung in children and adolescents: comparison with non-enhanced computed tomography and standard post-contrast T1w MRI sequences
Authors: Renz Diane M. , Herrmann Karl-Heinz , Kraemer Martin , Boettcher Joachim , Waginger Matthias , Krueger Paul-Christian , Pfeil Alexander , Streitparth Florian , Kentouche Karim , Gruhn Bernd , Mainz Jochen G. , Stenzel Martin , Teichgraeber Ulf K. , Reichenbach Juergen R. , Mentzel Hans-Joachim
Published: October 2021

Objectives

To compare the diagnostic value of ultrashort echo time (UTE) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for the lung versus the gold standard computed tomography (CT) and two T1-weighted MRI sequences in children.

Methods

Twenty-three patients with proven oncologic disease (14 male, 9 female; mean age 9.0 + / − 5.4 years) received 35 low-dose CT and MRI examinations of the lung. The MRI protocol (1.5-T) included the following post-contrast sequences: two-dimensional (2D) incoherent gradient echo (GRE; acquisition with breath-hold), 3D volume interpolated GRE (breath-hold), and 3D high-resolution radial UTE sequences (performed during free-breathing). Images were evaluated by considering image quality as well as distinct diagnosis of pulmonary nodules and parenchymal areal opacities with consideration of sizes and characterisations.

Results

The UTE technique showed significantly higher overall image quality, better sharpness, and fewer artefacts than both other sequences. On CT, 110 pulmonary nodules with a mean diameter of 4.9 + / − 2.9 mm were detected. UTE imaging resulted in a significantly higher detection rate compared to both other sequences (p < 0.01): 76.4% (84 of 110 nodules) for UTE versus 60.9% (67 of 110) for incoherent GRE and 62.7% (69 of 110) for volume interpolated GRE sequences. The detection of parenchymal areal opacities by the UTE technique was also significantly higher with a rate of 93.3% (42 of 45 opacities) versus 77.8% (35 of 45) for 2D GRE and 80.0% (36 of 45) for 3D GRE sequences (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The UTE technique for lung MRI is favourable in children with generally high diagnostic performance compared to standard T1-weighted sequences as well as CT.

Key Points

• Due to the possible acquisition during free-breathing of the patients, the UTE MRI sequence for the lung is favourable in children.

• The UTE technique reaches higher overall image quality, better sharpness, and lower artefacts, but not higher contrast compared to standard post-contrast T1-weighted sequences.

• In comparison to the gold standard chest CT, the detection rate of small pulmonary nodules small nodules ≤ 4 mm and subtle parenchymal areal opacities is higher with the UTE imaging than standard T1-weighted sequences.
Anthracycline-free tumor elimination in mice leads to functional and molecular cardiac recovery from cancer-induced alterations in contrast to long-lasting doxorubicin treatment effects
Authors: Pietzsch Stefan , Wohlan Katharina , Thackeray James T. , Heimerl Maren , Schuchardt Sven , Scherr Michaela , Ricke-Hoch Melanie , Hilfiker-Kleiner Denise
Published: October 2021

Systemic effects of advanced cancer impact on the heart leading to cardiac atrophy and functional impairment. Using a murine melanoma cancer model (B16F10 melanoma cells stably transduced with a Ganciclovir (GCV)-inducible suicide gene), the present study analysed the recovery potential of cancer-induced cardiomyopathy with or without use of doxorubicin (Dox). After Dox-free tumor elimination and recovery for 70 ± 5 days, cancer-induced morphologic, functional, metabolic and molecular changes were largely reversible in mice previously bearing tumors. Moreover, grip strength and cardiac response to angiotensin II-induced high blood pressure were comparable with healthy control mice. In turn, addition of Dox (12 mg/kg BW) to melanoma-bearing mice reduced survival in the acute phase compared to GCV-alone induced recovery, while long-term effects on cardiac morphologic and functional recovery were similar. However, Dox treatment was associated with permanent changes in the cardiac gene expression pattern, especially the circadian rhythm pathway associated with the DNA damage repair system. Thus, the heart can recover from cancer-induced damage after chemotherapy-free tumor elimination. In contrast, treatment with the cardiotoxic drug Dox induces, besides well-known adverse acute effects, long-term subclinical changes in the heart, especially of circadian clock genes. Since the circadian clock is known to impact on cardiac repair mechanisms, these changes may render the heart more sensitive to additional stress during lifetime, which, at least in part, could contribute to late cardiac toxicity.
The key role of µH2O gradients in deciphering microstructures and mineral assemblages of mylonites: examples from the Calabria polymetamorphic terrane
Authors: Tursi Fabrizio
Published: October 2021

A careful petrologic analysis of mylonites’ mineral assemblages is crucial for a thorough comprehension of the rheologic behaviour of ductile shear zones active during an orogenesis. In this view, understanding the way new minerals form in rocks sheared in a ductile manner and why relict porphyroblasts are preserved in zones where mineral reactions are generally supposed to be deformation-assisted, is essential. To this goal, the role of chemical potential gradients, particularly that of H2O (µH2O), was examined here through phase equilibrium modelling of syn-kinematic mineral assemblages developed in three distinct mylonites from the Calabria polymetamorphic terrane. Results revealed that gradients in chemical potentials have effects on the mineral assemblages of the studied mylonites, and that new syn-kinematic minerals formed in higher-µH2O conditions than the surroundings. In each case study, the banded fabric of the mylonites is related to the fluid availability in the system, with the fluid that was internally generated by the breakdown of OH-bearing minerals. The gradients in µH2O favoured the origin of bands enriched in hydrated minerals alternated with bands where anhydrous minerals were preserved even during exhumation. Thermodynamic modelling highlights that during the prograde stage of metamorphism, high-µH2O was necessary to form new minerals while relict, anhydrous porphyroblasts remained stable in condition of low-µH2O even during exhumation. Hence, the approach used in this contribution is an in-depth investigation of the fluid-present/-deficient conditions that affected mylonites during their activity, and provides a more robust interpretation of their microstructures, finally helping to explain the rheologic behaviour of ductile shear zones.
Fire Recurrence and Time Since Last Fire Interact to Determine the Supply of Multiple Ecosystem Services by Mediterranean Forests
Authors: Moghli Aymen , Santana Victor M. , Baeza M. Jaime , Pastor Estrella , Soliveres Santiago
Published: October 2021

Wildfires shape the composition and functioning of Mediterranean ecosystems, but we do not know how these ecosystems respond to both the higher fire recurrence and shorter recovery times expected for future climatic scenarios. We sampled 29 plots with different fire recurrences (from 0 to 4 fires over the past decades) and time since the last fire (up to 35 years; hereafter TSLF) in Southeast Spain, to assess the effect of fire recurrence and TSLF on 25 ecosystem attributes, five related ecosystem services (biodiversity conservation, carbon sequestration, disturbance regulation, food production, and supporting services), plus the synergies and trade-offs between them. High fire recurrence (number of fires) and TSLF interacted to determine ecosystem services but did not affect the synergies and trade-offs between them. Fire recurrence reduced many ecosystem functions and ecosystem multifunctionality. However, this effect dampened, and even became positive, for biodiversity conservation and food production services provided enough (> 20 years) time to recover. The combined effects of fire recurrence and TSLF, however, reduced carbon sequestration and had no overall effects on supporting services. Disturbance regulation, in turn, diminished drastically with the first fire, with no effect of further fires or their interaction with TSLF. Our results show which ecosystem services will suffer more from an increase in fire recurrence, and where restoration and management efforts should focus to maximize the provision of those services more demanded by stakeholders.
All-season space use by non-native resident Mandarin Ducks (Aix galericulata) in northeastern Germany
Authors: Schlägel Ulrike E. , Mädlow Wolfgang
Published: October 2021

Patterns of space use are often subject to large temporal and individual-level variation, due to seasonality in behaviour and environmental conditions as well as age- or sex-specific needs. Especially in temperate regions, seasonality likely influences space use even in non-migratory birds. In waterfowl of the familyAnatidae, however, few studies have analyzed space use of the same individuals across the full annual cycle. We used a resident population of Mandarin Ducks (Aix galericulata) in northeast Germany to study their year-round space use in relation to season, sex, and age. We marked 172 birds with colour rings and surveyed relevant water bodies for re-encounters for several years. As space-use patterns we derived home ranges from minimum convex polygons and the number of water bodies used by individual birds. Our analysis revealed that individuals shifted their space use between seasons, in particular extending their home ranges during the non-breeding season. Between years, in contrast, birds tended to show season-specific site fidelity. Sex differences were apparent during both breeding and non-breeding season, males consistently having larger home ranges and using slightly more water bodies. No difference was found between first-year and adult birds. Our study demonstrates that mark-resighting can provide valuable information about space use in species with suitable behaviour and readily accessible habitat. In such cases, it may be a valid alternative to more expensive GPS-tracking or short-term manual radio telemetry, particularly within citizen-science projects.
Basic concept and clinical applications of quantitative ultrasound (QUS) technologies
Authors: Yamaguchi Tadashi
Published: October 2021

In the field of clinical ultrasound, the full digitalization of diagnostic equipment in the 2000s enabled the technological development of quantitative ultrasound (QUS), followed by multiple diagnostic technologies that have been put into practical use in recent years. In QUS, tissue characteristics are quantified and parameters are calculated by analyzing the radiofrequency (RF) echo signals returning to the transducer. However, the physical properties (and pathological level structure) of the biological tissues responsible for the imaging features and QUS parameters have not been sufficiently verified as there are various conditions for observing living tissue with ultrasound and inevitable discrepancies between theoretical and actual measurements. A major issue of QUS in clinical application is that the evaluation results depend on the acquisition conditions of the RF echo signal as the source of the image information, and also vary according to the model of the diagnostic device. In this paper, typical examples of QUS techniques for evaluating attenuation, speed of sound, amplitude envelope characteristics, and backscatter coefficient in living tissues are introduced. Exemplary basic research and clinical applications related to these technologies, and initiatives currently being undertaken to establish the QUS method as a true tissue characterization technology, are also discussed.
Fracture toughness as an alternative approach to quantify the ageing of insulation paper in oil
Authors: Fernández-Diego C. , Carrascal I. A. , Ortiz A. , Fernández I. , Ferreño D. , Diego S. , Casado A.
Published: October 2021

Oil-immersed transformers use paper and oil as insulation system which degrades slowly during the operation of these machines. Cellulose materials are used generally as insulation solid in power transformers. The degree of polymerization (DP), defined as number of repeating β-glucose residues in the cellulose molecule, is a critical property of cellulosic insulation material used in transformers, since it provides information about paper ageing and its mechanical strength. The fast-developing electric power industry demanding superior performance of electrical insulation materials has led to the development of new materials, as well as different drying techniques performed during transformer manufacturing and service when required. Both developments have caused some practical difficulties in the DP measurement. Moreover, the increasing interest in synthetic dielectric materials replacing cellulose materials requires measuring alternative properties to the DP to quantify the degradation of insulation solids over time. In this sense, this paper proposes the possibility of analyzing paper degradation through fracture toughness. This approach is different from the study of mechanical properties such as tensile strength or strain because it provides a tool for solving most practical problems in engineering mechanics, such as safety and life expectancy estimation of cracked structures and components which cannot to be considered through the traditional assessment of the mechanical resistance of the material. An accelerated thermal ageing of Kraft paper in mineral oil was carried out at 130 °C during different periods of time, to obtain information on the kinetics of the ageing degradation of the paper. Double-edged notched specimens were tested in tension to study their fracture toughness. The evolution of the load–displacement curves obtained for different ageing times at the ageing temperature of 130 °C was utilized to the determination of the stress intensity factor. Furthermore, different kinetic models based on this stress intensity factor were applied to relate its evolution over time as a function of the temperature. Finally, the correlation between the DP and stress intensity factor, which depends on the fiber angle, was also defined.

Graphic abstract
Implicit Attitudes Towards Weight, One’s Own Body and its Relation to Food in Women with Overweight and Obesity
Authors: Baur Julia , Schmitz Florian , Naumann Eva , Svaldi Jennifer
Published: October 2021

Background

Theoretical models emphasize the importance of implicit self-related weight attitudes for the maintenance of body dissatisfaction. Even though body dissatisfaction is increased in obesity, only general implicit weight-related attitudes have been investigated so far. Therefore, the present study assessed self-related and general implicit weight attitudes and their relation to food.

Methods

Women with overweight and obesity (OW; n = 71) and women with normal weight (NW; n = 44) completed three implicit tasks to (1) assess attitudes towards persons with normal weight and overweight in general, (2) attitudes towards one’s own body, and (3) the association between one’s own body and food.

Results

While both groups showed an implicit preference towards persons with normal weight relative to persons with overweight, only women with OW showed a significantly stronger negative implicit attitude towards their own body and a stronger association between food and one’s own body. Additionally, self-related and not general implicit weight attitudes correlated significantly with body dissatisfaction and eating pathology.

Conclusions

The results highlight the importance of self-related implicit attitudes and their relation to body dissatisfaction and eating pathology in women with overweight and obesity. Targeting these self-related implicit weight attitudes might help to improve obesity treatments.
SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine Induced Atypical Immune Responses in Antibody Defects: Everybody Does their Best
Authors: Salinas Ane Fernandez , Mortari Eva Piano , Terreri Sara , Quintarelli Concetta , Pulvirenti Federica , Di Cecca Stefano , Guercio Marika , Milito Cinzia , Bonanni Livia , Auria Stefania , Romaggioli Laura , Cusano Giuseppina , Albano Christian , Zaffina Salvatore , Perno Carlo Federico , Spadaro Giuseppe , Locatelli Franco , Carsetti Rita , Quinti Isabella
Published: October 2021

Background

Data on immune responses to SARS-CoV-2 in patients with Primary Antibody Deficiencies (PAD) are limited to infected patients and to heterogeneous cohorts after immunization.

Methods

Forty-one patients with Common Variable Immune Deficiencies (CVID), six patients with X-linked Agammaglobulinemia (XLA), and 28 healthy age-matched controls (HD) were analyzed for anti-Spike and anti-receptor binding domain (RBD) antibody production, generation of Spike-specific memory B-cells, and Spike-specific T-cells before vaccination and one week after the second dose of BNT162b2 vaccine.

Results

The vaccine induced Spike-specific IgG and IgA antibody responses in all HD and in 20% of SARS-CoV-2 naive CVID patients. Anti-Spike IgG were detectable before vaccination in 4 out 7 CVID previously infected with SARS-CoV-2 and were boosted in six out of seven patients by the subsequent immunization raising higher levels than patients naïve to infection. While HD generated Spike-specific memory B-cells, and RBD-specific B-cells, CVID generated Spike-specific atypical B-cells, while RBD-specific B-cells were undetectable in all patients, indicating the incapability to generate this new specificity. Specific T-cell responses were evident in all HD and defective in 30% of CVID. All but one patient with XLA responded by specific T-cell only.

Conclusion

In PAD patients, early atypical immune responses after BNT162b2 immunization occurred, possibly by extra-follicular or incomplete germinal center reactions. If these responses to vaccination might result in a partial protection from infection or reinfection is now unknown. Our data suggests that SARS-CoV-2 infection more effectively primes the immune response than the immunization alone, possibly suggesting the need for a third vaccine dose for patients not previously infected.
The wealth-consumption channel: evidence from a panel of Spanish households
Authors: Trivin Pedro
Published: October 2021

In this paper, we use a panel of Spanish households spanning the period 2002–2011 to study the marginal propensity to consume (MPC) out of wealth. The wealth effect is identified by exploiting within-household variations in a period of relatively large volatility in asset prices. We estimate a MPC out of total wealth of around 1 cent with changes in housing wealth affecting consumption more than other assets. We also find supporting evidence on the concavity of the consumption function, showing that the MPC decreases with net wealth. Our results uncover the existence of sign and magnitude asymmetries in the MPC. This asymmetric behavior is not present in households with higher income expectations, suggesting that the transmission channel is related to precautionary saving motives.
Efficacy of medication therapy for patients with chronic kidney disease and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Yang Lei , Ye Nan , Bian Weijing , Cheng Hong
Published: October 2021

Background

The prevalence and mortality of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) are high in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, there is still a lack of recommendations for the medication therapy of these patients in the guideline so far.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of all the studies assessing medication therapy for patients with CKD and HFpEF by July 21, 2021. Pooled analysis was performed using a random-effect model and the quality assessment was performed. In our research, we followed to the Preferred Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The meta-analysis was registered on PROSPERO.

Results

We finally identified six studies, three of which were randomized controlled trials and the others were retrospective cohort studies. The results of meta-analysis including three retrospective cohort studies showed that renin–angiotensin system inhibitors had significantly reduced all-cause mortality by 14% (3 studies, 3816 patients, HR 0.86; 95% CI 0.79–0.95; I2 = 49%; P = 0.003), and all-cause hospitalization by 11% (2 studies, 2350 patients, HR 0.89; 95% CI 0.85–0.94; I2 = 0%; P < 0.00001) in patients with CKD and HFpEF. However, there was no significant reduction in the risk of hospitalization for heart failure (3 studies, 3816 patients, HR 0.88; 95% CI 0.75–1.04; I2 = 75%; P = 0.13). One of the studies focused on the sacubitril–valsartan showed that sacubitril–valsartan was associated with a reduced risk of hospitalization for heart failure and cardiovascular death (RR 0.79, 95% CI 0.66–0.95). The study focused on the carvedilol did not show a significant reduction in the risk of hospitalization for heart failure and cardiovascular death (HR 0.917, 95% CI 0.501–1.678).

Conclusions

For patients with CKD and HFpEF, renin–angiotensin system inhibitors is associated with significant benefits in all-cause mortality and all-cause hospitalization but has no significant effect on hospitalization for heart failure. The subgroup analysis of one RCT study focused on ARNI showed that although long-term treatment with sacubitril–valsartan may reduce the risk of hospitalization for heart failure and cardiovascular death, more studies are needed to confirm that.
Experimental investigation of a rotor blade tip vortex pair
Authors: Schröder Dominic , Aguilar-Cabello Jorge , Leweke Thomas , Hörnschemeyer Ralf , Stumpf Eike
Published: October 2021

This paper presents the results of an experimental study of two closely spaced vortices generated by a rotating blade with a modified tip geometry. The experiments are carried out in two water channel facilities and involve a generic one-bladed rotor operating in a regime near hover. It is equipped with a parametric fin placed perpendicular to the pressure surface near the tip, which generates a co-rotating vortex pair having a helical geometry. Based on previous results obtained with a fixed wing, a series of small-scale experiments is first carried out, to validate the method of vortex pair generation also for a rotating blade, and to obtain a qualitative overview of its evolution going downstream. A more detailed quantitative study is then performed in a larger facility at three times the initial scale. By varying the fin parameters, it was possible to obtain a configuration in which the two vortices have almost the same circulation. In both experiments, the vortex pair is found to merge into a single helical wake vortex within one blade rotation. Particle image velocimetry measurements show that the resulting vortex has a significantly larger core radius than the single tip vortex from a blade without fin. This finding may have relevance in the context of blade–vortex interactions, where noise generation and fatigue from fluid–structure interactions depend strongly on the vortex core size.
Deep-Space Optical Navigation for M-ARGO Mission
Authors: Franzese V. , Topputo F. , Ankersen F. , Walker R.
Published: October 2021

The Miniaturised Asteroid Remote Geophysical Observer (M-ARGO) mission is designed to be ESA’s first stand-alone CubeSat to independently travel in deep space with its own electric propulsion and direct-to-Earth communication systems in order to rendezvous with a near-Earth asteroid. Deep-space Cubesats are appealing owing to the scaled mission costs. However, the operational costs are comparable to those of traditional missions if ground-based orbit determination is employed. Thus, autonomous navigation methods are required to favour an overall scaling of the mission cost for deep-space CubeSats. M-ARGO is assumed to perform an autonomous navigation experiment during the deep-space cruise phase. This paper elaborates on the deep-space navigation experiment exploiting the line-of-sight directions to visible beacons in the Solar System. The aim is to assess the experiment feasibility and to quantify the performances of the method. Results indicate feasibility of the autonomous navigation for M-ARGO with a 3σ accuracy in the order of 1000 km for the position components and 1 m/s for the velocity components in good observation conditions, utilising miniaturized optical sensors.
Preserving the Public Domain: Limits on Overlapping Copyright and Trade Secret Protection of Software
Authors: Mylly Ulla-Maija
Published: October 2021

The traditional understanding of intellectual property (IP) suggests that each IP category has a discrete subject matter of its own and exceptions thereto. Based on such an understanding of IP law, one would assume that there would not be overlapping IP protection for the same subject matter or product features. However, this understanding does not hold water. It has been argued that the development of overlapping IP rights has intensified as the subject matter that can be protected has expanded through the introduction of new rights and as the scope of protection for existing rights has increased. What may be particularly problematic is that, when policymakers focus on one IP regime at time, any issues arising from IP overlaps may remain undetected. For quite some time, there has been a policy tendency towards broadening the scope of intellectual property protection, which has led to a decrease in scope for the public domain. This tendency shows that the value of the public domain has not been appropriately identified or at the least not appreciated. One way to define the public domain is as the sphere that is not protected by any form of IP. This article will focus on the overlaps created by the Software Copyright and Trade Secrets Directives with regard to the protection of software. The ultimate aim of the article is to query whether the combined effects of these two Directives could be interpreted in a way that limits the undesirable expansion of protection.
Gynécomastie en pratique clinique pour les urologues
Authors: Blanc Julien , Roth Beat , Rakauskas Arnas
Published: October 2021

La gynécomastie est fréquemment retrouvée dans la pratique clinique de l’urologue ou du médecin généraliste. D’un point de vue physiopathologique, elle résulte d’un déséquilibre entre la concentration des œstrogènes et des androgènes. De multiples pathologies et traitements peuvent amener à cette perte d’équilibre. Il est important pour le clinicien de reconnaitre les signes de danger qui doivent faire suspecter une néoplasie maligne primaire du tissus mammaire ou secondaire ayant amené à la gynécomastie. Un bilan biologique de base permet le plus souvent de trouver la cause de la gynécomastie. Le traitement est le plus souvent sa cause. Pour certain cas particulier un traitement par le tamoxifène ou la radiothérapie peut être proposé. La chirurgie intervient lors de l’échec du traitement conservateur.
A novel IoT sensor authentication using HaLo extraction method and memory chip variability
Authors: Gordon Holden , Lyp Thomas , Kimbro Calvin , Tehranipoor Sara
Published: October 2021

Since the inception of encrypted messages thousands of years ago, mathematicians and scientists have continued to improve encryption algorithms in order to create more secure means of communication. These improvements came by means of more complex encryption algorithms that have stronger security features such as larger keys and trusted third parties. While many new processors can handle these more complex encryption algorithms, IoT devices on the edge often struggle to keep up with resource intensive encryption standards. In order to meet this demand for lightweight, secure encryption on the edge, this paper proposes a novel solution, called the High and Low (HaLo) method, that generates Physical Unclonable Function (PUF) signatures based on process variations within flash memory. These PUF signatures can be used to uniquely identify and authenticate remote sensors, and help ensure that messages being sent from remote sensors are encrypted adequately without requiring computationally expensive methods. The HaLo method consumes 20x less power than conventional authentication schemes commonly used with IoT devices, it has an average latency of only 39ms for 512 bit signature generation, and the average error rate is below 0.06%. Due to its low latency, low error rate, and high power efficiency, the HaLo method can progress the field of IoT encryption standards by accurately and efficiently authenticating remote sensors without sacrificing encryption integrity.
Length of Stay and Home Discharge for Patients with Inpatient Stroke Rehabilitation
Authors: Tran Dat T. , Yan Charles , Dukelow Sean P. , Round Jeff
Published: October 2021

Objective:

To examine temporal trends and geographic variations and predict inpatient rehabilitation (IPR) length of stay (LOS) and home discharge for stroke patients.

Methods:

Patients aged ≥18 years who were admitted to an IPR facility in Alberta, Canada, between 04/2014 and 03/2018 (years 2014–2017) were included. Predictors of LOS and home discharge were examined using 2014–2016 data and validated using 2017 data. Multivariable linear regression (MLR), multivariable negative binomial (MNB), and multivariable quantile regressions (MQR) were used to examine LOS, and logistic regression was used for home discharge.

Results:

We included 2686 rehabilitation admissions between 2014 and 2017. The mean LOS decreased (2014: 71 days; 2017: 62.1 days; p = 0.003) during the study period and was shortest in Edmonton (59.1 days) compared to Calgary (66 days) or other localities (70.8 days; p < 0.001). Three-quarters of patients were discharged home and this proportion remained unchanged between 2014 and 2017. Calgary patients were more likely to be discharged home than those in Edmonton (OR = 0.62; p = 0.019) or other localities (OR = 0.39; p = 0.011). The MLR and MNB models provided accurate prediction for the mean LOS (predicted = 59.9 and 60.8 days, respectively, vs. actual = 62.1 days; both p > 0.5), while the MQR model did so for the median LOS (predicted = 44.3 days vs. actual = 44 days; p = 0.09). The logistic regression resulted in 82.4% of correct prediction, a sensitivity of 91.6%, and a specificity of 50.7% for home discharge.

Conclusions:

Rehabilitation LOS decreased while the proportion of home discharge remained unchanged during the study period. Both varied across health zones. Identifiable statistical models provided accurate prediction with a separate patient cohort.