bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assimilation of Doppler radar radial wind data in the GRAPES mesoscale model with observation error covariances tuning
Authors: Yin Jian , Han Wei , Gao Zhiqiu , Chen Haiqin
Published: April 2021

The accurate estimation of observation error statistics for high‐density remote‐sensing data is a fundamental step toward optimally utilizing such data, including radar data, for operational numerical weather prediction. Based on the high‐resolution (3 × 3 km) GRAPES model together with the three‐dimensional variational assimilation system (GRAPES_3DVAR) developed by the China Meteorological Administration, a set of assimilation processes for radar radial wind data is designed. First, a scheme is proposed to guarantee the quality of radar radial wind data by correcting the velocity ambiguity for the data. The observation error covariances of the radar data in the GRAPES_3DVAR assimilation system are re‐estimated by using a diagnostic method based on analysis residuals, showing that the re‐estimated radial wind observation error covariances increase with altitude. An optimal regularization parameter is selected by the L‐curve method to constrain the radar observations that were assimilated using inaccurate observation error covariances. Furthermore, to verify the assimilation effects of the refined radial velocity observation error covariances and the constrained observations by the regularization parameter on the analysis and forecasting, a numerical study is carried out on typhoonYunque, which occurred on 3 August 2018. The results show that the modified Doppler radar wind data assimilation using the re‐estimated radial velocity observation error covariances enhances the wind analysis field and the water vapour transport, and accordingly obtains better short‐term precipitation estimates. The radar wind data assimilation results of using the constrained observations also indicate an enhanced wind analysis field and water vapour transport, which leads to better short‐term precipitation estimates.
Improved plasma stoichiometry recorded by laser ablation ionization mass spectrometry using a double‐pulse femtosecond laser ablation ion source
Authors: Riedo Andreas , Lukmanov Rustam , Grimaudo Valentine , de Koning Coenraad , Ligterink Niels F. W. , Tulej Marek , Wurz Peter
Published: April 2021

Rationale

Femtosecond (fs) laser ablation ion sources have allowed for improved measurement capabilities and figures of merit of laser ablation based spectroscopic and mass spectrometric measurement techniques. However, in comparison to longer pulse laser systems, the ablation plume from fs lasers is observed to be colder, which favors the formation of polyatomic species. Such species can limit the analytical capabilities of a system due to isobaric interferences. In this contribution, a double‐pulse femtosecond (DP‐fs) laser ablation ion source is coupled to our miniature Laser Ablation Ionization Mass Spectrometry (LIMS) system and its impact on the recorded stoichiometry of the generated plasma is analyzed in detail.

Methods

A DP‐fs laser ablation ion source (temporal delays of +300 to – 300 ps between pulses) is connected to our miniature LIMS system. The first pulse is used for material removal from the sample surface and the second for post‐ionization of the ablation plume. To characterize the performance, parametric double‐ and single‐pulse studies (temporal delays, variation of the pulse energy, voltage applied on detector system) were conducted on three different NIST SRM alloy samples (SRM 661, 664 and 665).

Results

At optimal instrument settings for both the double‐pulse laser ablation ion source and the detector voltage, relative sensitivity coefficients were observed to be closer (factor of ~2) to 1 compared with single‐pulse measurements. Furthermore, the optimized settings worked for all three samples, meaning no further optimization was necessary when changing to another alloy sample material during this study.

Conclusions

The application of a double‐pulse femtosecond laser ablation ion source resulted in the recording of improved stoichiometry of the generated plasma using our LIMS measurement technique. This is of great importance for the quantitative chemical analysis of more complex solid materials, e.g., geological samples or metal alloys, especially when aiming for standard‐free quantification procedures for the determination of the chemical composition.
DNA Adductomics by mass tag prelabeling
Authors: Wang Poguang , Roider Elisabeth , Coulter Michael E. , Walsh Christopher A. , Kramer Caitlin S. , Beuning Penny J. , Giese Roger W.
Published: April 2021

Rationale

As a new approach to DNA adductomics, we directly reacted intact, double‐stranded (ds)‐DNA under warm conditions with an alkylating mass tag followed by analysis by liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry. This method is based on the tendency of adducted nucleobases to locally disrupt the DNA structure (forming a “DNA bubble”) potentially increasing exposure of their nucleophilic (including active hydrogen) sites for preferential alkylation. Also encouraging this strategy is that the scope of nucleotide excision repair is very broad, and this system primarily recognizes DNA bubbles.

Methods

A cationic xylyl (CAX) mass tag with limited nonpolarity was selected to increase the retention of polar adducts in reversed‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) for more detectability while maintaining resolution. We thereby detected a diversity of DNA adducts (mostly polar) by the following sequence of steps: (1) react DNA at 45°C for 2 h under aqueous conditions with CAX‐B (has a benzyl bromide functional group to label active hydrogen sites) in the presence of triethylamine; (2) remove residual reagents by precipitating and washing the DNA (a convenient step); (3) digest the DNA enzymatically to nucleotides and remove unlabeled nucleotides by nonpolar solid‐phase extraction (also a convenient step); and (4) detect CAX‐labeled, adducted nucleotides by LC/MS2 or a matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI)‐MS technique.

Results

Examples of the 42 DNA or RNA adducts detected, or tentatively so based on accurate mass and fragmentation data, are as follows: 8‐oxo‐dGMP, ethyl‐dGMP, hydroxyethyl‐dGMP (four isomers, all HPLC‐resolved), uracil‐glycol, apurinic/apyrimidinic sites, benzo[a]pyrene‐dGMP, and, for the first time, benzoquinone‐hydroxymethyl‐dCMP. Importantly, these adducts are detected in a single procedure under a single set of conditions. Sensitivity, however, is only defined in a preliminary way, namely the latter adduct seems to be detected at a level of about 4 adducts in 109 nucleotides (S/N ~30).

Conclusions

CAX‐Prelabeling is an emerging new technique for DNA adductomics, providing polar DNA adductomics in a practical way for the first time. Further study of the method is encouraged to better characterize and extend its performance, especially in scope and sensitivity.
Relative controllability of delay multi‐agent systems
Authors: Si Yuanchao , Fečkan Michal , Wang JinRong , O'Regan Donal
Published: April 2021

This article considers the controllability of delayed linear and nonlinear multi‐agent systems, respectively, with leader‐follower architecture and fixed communication topology. For the linear multi‐agent systems, a relative protocol is designed to realize the interactions among agents and explicit solutions of the controlled agreement system are constructed in two cases, respectively, involving two kinds of delayed exponential matrix functions and the properties of the Kronecker product. Further Gramian and rank criteria for relative controllability are established, respectively. For the nonlinear ones, the control problem is transformed into the existence of fixed points which is tackled via

Krasnoselskii's fixed point theorem. Numerical examples of linear and nonlinear systems are given to verify the theoretical results.
A more precise way to localize animals using drones
Authors: Hui Nathan T. , Lo Eric K. , Moss Jen B. , Gerber Glenn P. , Welch Mark E. , Kastner Ryan , Schurgers Curt
Published: April 2021

Radio telemetry is a commonly used technique in conservation biology and ecology, particularly for studying the movement and range of individuals and populations. Traditionally, most radio telemetry work is done using handheld directional antennae and either direction‐finding and homing techniques or radio‐triangulation techniques. Over the past couple of decades, efforts have been made to utilize unmanned aerial vehicles to make radio‐telemetry tracking more efficient, or cover more area. However, many of these approaches are complex and have not been rigorously field‐tested. To provide scientists with reliable quality tracking data, tracking systems need to be rigorously tested and characterized. In this paper, we present a novel, drone‐based, radio‐telemetry tracking method for tracking the broad‐scale movement paths of animals over multiple days and its implementation and deployment under field conditions. During a 2‐week field period in the Cayman Islands, we demonstrated this system's ability to localize multiple targets simultaneously, in daily 10 min tracking sessions over a period of 2 weeks, generating more precise estimates than comparable efforts using manual triangulation techniques.
How eco‐efficient are electric vehicles across Europe? A regionalized life cycle assessment‐based eco‐efficiency analysis
Authors: Onat Nuri Cihat , Abdella Galal M. , Kucukvar Murat , Kutty Adeeb A. , Al‐Nuaimi Munera , Kumbaroğlu Gürkan , Bulu Melih
Published: April 2021

Sustainable transportation is at the hearth of the United Nation's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and is directly linked to many SDGs including SDG3 (good health and well‐being), SDG11 (sustainable cities and societies), SDG 7 (clean energy), SDG13 (climate), and SDG 12 (sustainable production and consumption). European countries have been promoting a widespread adoption of electric vehicles to achieve SDGs through resilient, technology‐driven, and human‐centric mobility. However, potential environmental benefits of electric vehicles depend on various regional factors such as the fuel efficiency and source of electricity generation. At the same time, the economic benefits of mobility to the economy are an important factor for evaluating the relative performance of electric vehicles. To this end, this research paper presents the first empirical analysis of the regionalized eco‐efficiency assessment of electric vehicles across Europe. We developed an integrated regionalized eco‐efficiency performance score, by employing life cycle assessment and principal component analysis techniques to assess the eco‐efficiency performance of electric vehicles in Europe. Considering the energy mix for electricity generation, three environmental indicators (carbon footprint, water consumption, and energy use) and one economic (contribution to national gross domestic product) indicator were used to compute the eco‐efficiency scores for 28 European countries. The eco‐efficiency scores for each corresponding country were calculated, compared, and clustered in as high, medium, and low eco‐efficiency score countries. The clvalid package of R software's archive network is used to determine the optimal number of clusters for the EES dataset. The results of the comparative study show that Denmark, Germany, Italy, Portugal, and Spain have a competitive advantage in eco‐efficiency performance compared to the other European countries. The regionalized distribution of the eco‐efficiency performance shows that the countries with the highest ecoefficiency score are located on the west side of Europe. Researches and policymakers can benefit from the applied methodology as well as the results to provide country‐specific investment policies to achieve higher benefits towards a transition to electric mobility in Europe.
On the error in Laplace approximations of high‐dimensional integrals
Authors: Ogden Helen
Published: April 2021

Laplace approximations are commonly used to approximate high‐dimensional integrals in statistical applications, but the quality of such approximations as the dimension of the integral grows is not well understood. In this paper, we provide a new result on the size of the error in first‐ and higher‐order Laplace approximations, in terms of the rate of growth of information about each of the integrated variables. By contrast with many existing results, we allow for variation in the rate of information growth among the different integrated variables. We apply our results to investigate the quality of Laplace approximations to the likelihood in some generalized linear mixed models.
Predicting the circumferential strains on a cylindrical concrete specimen during a pull‐out test
Authors: Leibovich Orit , Yankelevsky David Z. , Dancygier Avraham N.
Published: April 2021

In a recent experimental research, the authors measured the circumferential strains on the cylindrical envelope of concrete specimens during pull‐out tests. This paper presents a theoretical approach, complementing the previous experimental study, aiming at predicting these measured circumferential strains and developing the understanding of the three‐dimensional behavior of the concrete cylinder. The proposed approach accounts for the specimen materials and geometrical parameters including the ribs and strain gauges locations and proposes an expression for the normalized and absolute circumferential strains along the specimen circumference due to ribs actions. This paper presents a new three‐dimensional model of the specimen behvior during a pull‐out test, which provides new insight on bond mechanics and illuminates the role of the radial pressures developed as part of the bond action. Several simulations were performed on specimens with three different diameters, two concrete strengths, and a different number of bonded ribs. All the simulations show very good agreement with the measured strain data. This study enhances the understanding of bond resistance during a pull‐out process and contributes to the understanding of the ring action that is developed in a concrete cylinder during a pull‐out test.
Latin America: Chartering a new economic and business pathway
Authors: Gouvea Raul , Gutierrez Margarida Sarmiento , Montoya Manuel , Terra Branca
Published: April 2021

In 2020, Latin American economies are facing a number of challenges and opportunities derived from regional and global events. Latin American economies have a number of factors and components to positioned and warrant these economies amongst one of the world's fastest growing regions. However, for the last four decades, the region has shown a weak and volatile economic performance, with periods of booms and busts. This paper assesses the region's main challenges and opportunities on its quest towards implementing an inclusive, equitable, competitive, and sustainable economy and society.
Pandemic presents challenges, inspires innovation
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: April 2021

The pandemic has meant working at home, revising schedules and room assignments, and much more. A year in, we checked in with the members of our Advisory Board to discuss the challenges they have encountered and how they're moving forward. And there were some bright spots.
Protein nanoparticles in molecular, cellular, and tissue imaging
Authors: Kaku Tanvi Sushil , Lim Sierin
Published: April 2021

The quest to develop ideal nanoparticles capable of molecular, cellular, and tissue level imaging is ongoing. Since certain imaging probes and nanoparticles face drawbacks such as low aqueous solubility, increased ROS generation leading to DNA damage, apoptosis, and high cellular/organ toxicities, the development of versatile and biocompatible nanocarriers becomes necessary. Protein nanoparticles (PNPs) are one such promising class of nanocarriers that possess most of the desirable properties of an ideal nanocarrier for bioimaging applications. PNPs demonstrate high aqueous solubility, minimal cytotoxicity, and multi‐cargo loading capacity. They are also amenable to surface‐functionalization, as well as modulation of their hydrophobicity and hydrophilicity. The use of PNPs for bioimaging applications has made rapid advancements in the past two decades. Being comparatively less explored, the field opens up a plethora of opportunities and focus areas to engineer ideal bioimaging protein nanocarriers. The use of PNPs as carriers of their natural ligands as well as other heavy metals and fluorescent probes, along with drug molecules for combined theranostic applications has been reported. In addition, surface functionalization to impart specificity of targeting the PNPs has been shown to reduce nonspecific cellular interactions, thus reducing systemic toxicity. PNPs have been explored for their application in imaging of numerous cancers, cardiovascular diseases as well as imaging of the brain using near infrared fluorescence (NIRF) imaging, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), X‐ray computed tomography (CT), positron emission tomography (PET), single‐photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), ultrasound (US), and photoacoustic (PA) imaging.

This article is categorized under:

Biology‐Inspired Nanomaterials > Protein and Virus‐Based Structures

Diagnostic Tools > In Vivo Nanodiagnostics and Imaging
Local equilibrium approximation in free turbulent flows: Verification through the method of differential constrains
Authors: Grebenev Vladimir N. , Demenkov Andrew G. , Chernykh Gennady G. , Grichkov Alexandre N.
Published: April 2021

We present a full version of the results obtained in Grebenev et al [Doklady Physics 47(7), 518–521 (2002)] wherein the closure formula, that is, the local equilibrium approximation of second‐order moments for modeling free turbulent flows was justified by the method of differential constrains. The proposed analysis provides us a point of view from the modern theory of symmetry analysis on the closure problem in turbulence. Specifically, closure relationships in the physical space are interpreted as the (differential) equations of invariant sets (manifolds) in a phase‐space. We demonstrate how this concept can be applied for verification of the local equilibrium approximations (LEA) of second‐order moments. With this, we obtain the equivalence of LEA and vanishing the Poisson bracket for the defect of the longitudinal velocity component and of the turbulent energy. Numerical experiments carried out in a far turbulent wake confirm this conclusion.
Climate Change
Authors: Cilliers Jakkie
Published: April 2021

On its current development trajectory the world is headed for serious climate change trouble. More carbon emissions will affect all of humanity and with its low adaptation capacity, arid climates and rainfall-dependent agriculture, Africa is particularly at risk. Cillliers offers an in-depth assessment of the implications of climate change for Africans. In addition to reviewing the scientific consensus on the threats climate change is likely to pose in the coming decades, he sheds light on how Africa’s future trends in energy, population and lifestyle will affect carbon emissions. The chapter concludes by comparing Africa’s carbon emissions in four scenarios with the Current Path forecast, namely Made in Africa and Free Trade (highest carbon emissions) and Leapfrogging and Demographic Dividend (lowest carbon emissions).
Closing the Gap
Authors: Cilliers Jakkie
Published: April 2021

In this concluding chapter Cilliers presents a combined Close the Gap scenario that integrates the eleven scenarios that were modelled in the previous chapters and compares the impact with the Current Path prospects on dimensions such as income growth, economic size, impact on extreme poverty and carbon emissions. The chapter then moves on to compare the impact of the scenarios with one another. The results differ for low, lower-middle and upper-income countries as well as over time. The differences are illustrated with reference to improvements for each income group in 2030, 2040 and 2050. The chapter then sketches out a broad description of a ‘standard economic growth model’ that emerges from the preceding analysis. It concludes by pointing to the similarities and differences compared to China’s recent history.
Japan’s Peacebuilding and Mid-Space Actors: A Bridge Between the West and the Rest
Authors: Uesugi Yuji , Deekeling Anna
Published: April 2021

This chapter focuses on Japan’s approach to peacebuilding, and examines its ability to emerge as a hybrid peacebuilding facilitator. To test this potential, three cases of Japan’s engagement with mid-space actors are studied. By reviewing Japan’s flagship projects in Timor-Leste, Myanmar and Mindanao, the chapter shows that Japan holds the ability to establish trust-relationships with top/national leaders of the aid-recipient countries through its apolitical, request-based, non-intrusive and long-term commitment approaches that Japanese actors display. At the same time, Japanese actors operating at the local/bottom are able to develop relationships with mid-space actors through providing them with important know-how and resources. This practice has allowed Japan to engage with conflict-affected societies where and when access of other donors was denied, which gave Japan an advantage in supporting local bridge-building initiatives. In short, this chapter demonstrated how Japan could bridge between Western donors and aid-recipient countries in Southeast Asia. While several shortcomings of the Japanese approach such as the limited inclusion of stakeholders and unequal distribution of peace dividend are identified in this chapter, it concluded that Japan could emerge as a hybrid peacebuilding facilitator if these shortcomings were addressed.
Einleitung
Authors: Schwarting Rena
Published: April 2021

In diesem Buch beschäftige ich mich mit dem Zusammenhang von Organisationsbildung und gesellschaftlicher Differenzierung. Fragen nach dem historischen Verhältnis von Organisation und Gesellschaft sind in der Soziologie mehrfach als Desiderat benannt worden. Das Ziel dieser Arbeit ist es, die Ausdifferenzierung von Organisationen, verstanden als eigenlogische Sozialform, anhand eines vormodernen Falls konzeptionell und empirisch zu erschließen.
Forschungsstand
Authors: Schwarting Rena
Published: April 2021

Beim RKG handelt es sich angesichts seines über 300-jährigen Bestehens von 1495 bis 1806 um einen historischen Gegenstand, der empirisch primär in das Untersuchungsfeld der Frühen Neuzeit und der (Rechts-)Geschichte fällt. Entsprechend der interdisziplinären Anlage verorte ich das Interesse an der Organisationsförmigkeit des RKG innerhalb der Forschungsstände zweier Disziplinen. Dabei frage ich nach dem Stand einer historisch interessierten und gesellschaftstheoretisch angeleiteten Organisationssoziologie einerseits und einer organisationssoziologisch informierten RKG-Forschung andererseits.
Schluss
Authors: Schwarting Rena
Published: April 2021

Für den abschließenden Teil dieser Arbeit sind zwei Fragen leitend: (a) Welche empirischen und theoretischen Erkenntnisgewinne lassen sich aus der Untersuchung der Organisationsgenese des RKG in der vormodernen Gesellschaft des Alten Reichs ableiten? (b) Inwiefern verändert eine historisch-soziologisch interessierte Organisationsforschung den Blick auf ihren Gegenstand? Um sich einigen Antworten auf diese Fragen zu nähern, wird zunächst die Programmatik der hier vorgelegten Arbeit in komprimierter Form rekapituliert.
Finite representability of semigroups with demonic refinement
Authors: Hirsch Robin , Šemrl Jaš
Published: April 2021

The motivation for using demonic calculus for binary relations stems from the behaviour of demonic turing machines, when modelled relationally. Relational composition (; ) models sequential runs of two programs and demonic refinement ($$\sqsubseteq $$
⊑
) arises from the partial order given by modeling demonic choice ($$\sqcup $$
⊔
) of programs (see below for the formal relational definitions). We prove that the class $$R(\sqsubseteq , ;)$$

R
(
⊑
,
;
)

of abstract $$(\le , \circ )$$

(
≤
,
∘
)

structures isomorphic to a set of binary relations ordered by demonic refinement with composition cannot be axiomatised by any finite set of first-order $$(\le , \circ )$$

(
≤
,
∘
)

formulas. We provide a fairly simple, infinite, recursive axiomatisation that defines $$R(\sqsubseteq , ;)$$

R
(
⊑
,
;
)

. We prove that a finite representable $$(\le , \circ )$$

(
≤
,
∘
)

structure has a representation over a finite base. This appears to be the first example of a signature for binary relations with composition where the representation class is non-finitely axiomatisable, but where the finite representation property holds for finite structures.
On Recovery Guarantees for Angular Synchronization
Authors: Filbir Frank , Krahmer Felix , Melnyk Oleh
Published: April 2021

The angular synchronization problem of estimating a set of unknown angles from their known noisy pairwise differences arises in various applications. It can be reformulated as an optimization problem on graphs involving the graph Laplacian matrix. We consider a general, weighted version of this problem, where the impact of the noise differs between different pairs of entries and some of the differences are erased completely; this version arises for example in ptychography. We study two common approaches for solving this problem, namely eigenvector relaxation and semidefinite convex relaxation. Although some recovery guarantees are available for both methods, their performance is either unsatisfying or restricted to the unweighted graphs. We close this gap, deriving recovery guarantees for the weighted problem that are completely analogous to the unweighted version.
Tiefes periokuläres Trauma mit Tränenwegsbeteiligung durch Kaiserschnittentbindung
Authors: Heichel Jens , Struck Hans-Gert , Paulsen Friedrich , Javed Ali Mohammad , Viestenz Arne
Published: April 2021

Periokuläre Verletzungen im Rahmen einer Kaiserschnittentbindung sind extrem selten. Anhand einer Kasuistik eines 5 h alten Neugeborenen soll das Trauma-Management in Hinblick auf Diagnostik, Therapie und Nachsorge einer tiefen periokulären Weichteilwunde dargestellt werden. Das Verletzungsmuster umfasste durchgreifende Wunden des medialen und lateralen Lidwinkels mit Eröffnung der Bindehautumschlagsfalte, der Tenonkapsel und Durchtrennung des oberen Tränenröhrchens. Der schichtweise Wundverschluss beinhaltete eine autostabile monokanalikulonasale Intubation der ableitenden Tränenwege.
Specific and non-specific binding of a tracer for the translocator-specific protein in schizophrenia: an [11C]-PBR28 blocking study
Authors: Marques Tiago Reis , Veronese Mattia , Owen David R. , Rabiner Eugenii A. , Searle Graham E. , Howes Oliver D.
Published: April 2021

Objective

The mitochondrial 18-kDa translocator protein (TSPO) is expressed by activated microglia and positron emission tomography enables the measurement of TSPO levels in the brain. Findings in schizophrenia have shown to vary depending on the outcome measure used and this discrepancy in TSPO results could be explained by lower non-displaceable binding (VND) in schizophrenia, which could obscure increases in specific binding. In this study, we have used the TSPO ligand XBD173 to block the TSPO radioligand [11C]-PBR28 and used an occupancy plot to quantifyVNDin patients with schizophrenia.

Methods

A total of 7 patients with a diagnosis of schizophrenia were recruited for this study. Each patient received two separate PET scans with [11C]PBR28, one at baseline and one after the administration of the TSPO ligand XBD173. All patients were high-affinity binders (HABs) for the TSPO gene. We used an occupancy plot to quantify the non-displaceable component (VND) using 2TCM kinetic estimates with and without vascular correction. Finally we computed theVNDat a single subject level using the SIME method.

Results

All patients showed a global and generalized reduction in [11C]PBR28 uptake after the administration of XBD173. Constraining theVNDto be equal for all patients, the populationVNDwas estimated to be 1.99 mL/cm3(95% CI 1.90 to 2.08). When we used vascular correction, the fractional TSPO occupancy remained similar.

Conclusions

In schizophrenia patients, a substantial component of the [11C]PBR28 signal represents specific binding to TSPO. Furthermore, theVNDin patients with schizophrenia is similar to that previously reported in healthy controls. These results suggest that changes in non-specific binding between schizophrenia patients and healthy controls do not account for discrepant PET findings in this disorder.
Perspectives in membranous nephropathy
Authors: Tomas Nicola M. , Huber Tobias B. , Hoxha Elion
Published: April 2021

The identification of the phospholipase A2 receptor 1 (PLA2R) and thrombospondin type-1 domain-containing protein 7A (THSD7A) as podocyte antigens in adult patients with membranous nephropathy (MN) has strongly impacted both experimental and clinical research on this disease. Evidence has been furnished that podocyte-directed autoantibodies can cause MN, and novel PLA2R- and THSD7A-specific animal models have been developed. Today, measurement of serum autoantibody levels and staining of kidney biopsies for the target antigens guides MN diagnosis and treatment worldwide. Additionally, anti-PLA2R antibodies have been proven to be valuable prognostic biomarkers in MN. Despite these impressive advances, a variety of questions regarding the disease pathomechanisms, clinical use of antibody measurement, and future treatments remain unanswered. In this review, we will outline recent advances made in the field of MN and discuss open questions and perspectives with a focus on novel antigen identification, mechanisms of podocyte injury, clinical use of antibody measurement to guide diagnosis and treatment, and the potential of innovative, pathogenesis-based treatment strategies.
Evidenzbasierte Ernährung bei zerebrovaskulären und kardiovaskulären Erkrankungen
Authors: Deupmann A.-K. , Debus E. S. , Grundmann R. T.
Published: April 2021

Zielsetzung

Anhand einer systematischen Literaturrecherche soll eine evidenzbasierte Ernährungsempfehlung zur Vorbeugung von zerebrovaskulären und kardiovaskulären Erkrankungen erarbeitet werden.

Methoden

Pubmed-Recherche bis Oktober 2019 zu nationalen und internationale Leitlinien, Metaanalysen, randomisierten Studien und Registerstudien der letzten 10 Jahre. Nur Veröffentlichungen, die den Einfluss der Ernährung auf den primären Studienendpunkt einer Herz-Kreislauf-Erkrankung untersuchten, wurden berücksichtigt. Folgende Schlagwörter wurden für die Literaturrecherche verwendet: „diet“, „cardiovascular disease“, „nutrition“, „stroke“.

Ergebnisse

Es fanden sich 30 Studien, 41 Metaanalysen und 15 Registerstudien. Es konnte kein signifikanter Zusammenhang zwischen dem Verzehr von mehrfach ungesättigten Fettsäuren und einem reduzierten Schlaganfallrisiko festgestellt werden. Lediglich der Verzehr von einfach ungesättigten Fettsäuren zeigte ein signifikant reduziertes Risiko für einen hämorrhagischen Schlaganfall. Der Verzehr von Kohlenhydraten sowie von Proteinen hat keinen direkten Einfluss auf das Schlaganfallrisiko. Jedoch ist der Verzehr pflanzlicher Proteine dem tierischer möglicherweise vorzuziehen. Eine vermehrte Zufuhr von Kalium durch den Verzehr von Obst und Gemüse und eine verringerte Natriumaufnahme durch eine Salzreduzierung sind zur Vorbeugung eines Schlaganfalls zu empfehlen. Sowohl die mediterrane Diät als auch die DASH(„Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension“)-Diät reduzieren deutlich das Risiko eines Schlaganfalls. Zusätzlich lässt sich durch folgendes Risikoprofil die Gefahr eines Schlaganfalls so gering wie möglich halten: Nichtraucher, optimales Körpergewicht (BMI) und Bauchumfang, sportliche Aktivität, moderater Alkoholkonsum

Folgerung

Die Inzidenz von zerebrovaskulären und kardiovaskulären Erkrankungen könnte bei entsprechender Ernährung signifikant gesenkt werden.
Semi-automated regional classification of the style of activity of slow rock-slope deformations using PS InSAR and SqueeSAR velocity data
Authors: Crippa Chiara , Valbuzzi Elena , Frattini Paolo , Crosta Giovanni B. , Spreafico Margherita C. , Agliardi Federico
Published: April 2021

Large slow rock-slope deformations, including deep-seated gravitational slope deformations and large landslides, are widespread in alpine environments. They develop over thousands of years by progressive failure, resulting in slow movements that impact infrastructures and can eventually evolve into catastrophic rockslides. A robust characterization of their style of activity is thus required in a risk management perspective. We combine an original inventory of slow rock-slope deformations with different PS-InSAR and SqueeSAR datasets to develop a novel, semi-automated approach to characterize and classify 208 slow rock-slope deformations in Lombardia (Italian Central Alps) based on their displacement rate, kinematics, heterogeneity and morphometric expression. Through a peak analysis of displacement rate distributions, we characterize the segmentation of mapped landslides and highlight the occurrence of nested sectors with differential activity and displacement rates. Combining 2D decomposition of InSAR velocity vectors and machine learning classification, we develop an automatic approach to characterize the kinematics of each landslide. Then, we sequentially combine principal component and K-medoids cluster analyses to identify groups of slow rock-slope deformations with consistent styles of activity. Our methodology is readily applicable to different landslide datasets and provides an objective and cost-effective support to land planning and the prioritization of local-scale studies aimed at granting safety and infrastructure integrity.
Neumaier graphs with few eigenvalues
Authors: Abiad Aida , De Bruyn Bart , D’haeseleer Jozefien , Koolen Jack H.
Published: April 2021

A Neumaier graph is a non-complete edge-regular graph containing a regular clique. In this paper we give some sufficient and necessary conditions for a Neumaier graph to be strongly regular. Further we show that there does not exist Neumaier graphs with exactly four distinct eigenvalues. We also determine the Neumaier graphs with smallest eigenvalue $$-2$$

-
2

.
Constraint-induced intervention as an emergent phenomenon from synaptic competition in biological systems
Authors: Sohn Won J. , Sanger Terence D.
Published: April 2021

The principle of constraint-induced therapy is widely practiced in rehabilitation. In hemiplegic cerebral palsy (CP) with impaired contralateral corticospinal projection due to unilateral injury, function improves after imposing a temporary constraint on limbs from the less affected hemisphere. This type of partially-reversible impairment in motor control by early brain injury bears a resemblance to the experience-dependent plastic acquisition and modification of neuronal response selectivity in the visual cortex. Previously, such mechanism was modeled within the framework of BCM (Bienenstock-Cooper-Munro) theory, a rate-based synaptic modification theory. Here, we demonstrate a minimally complex yet sufficient neural network model which provides a fundamental explanation for inter-hemispheric competition using a simplified spike-based model of information transmission and plasticity. We emulate the restoration of function in hemiplegic CP by simulating the competition between cells of the ipsilateral and contralateral corticospinal tracts. We use a high-speed hardware neural simulation to provide realistic numbers of spikes and realistic magnitudes of synaptic modification. We demonstrate that the phenomenon of constraint-induced partial reversal of hemiplegia can be modeled by simplified neural descending tracts with 2 layers of spiking neurons and synapses with spike-timing-dependent plasticity (STDP). We further demonstrate that persistent hemiplegia following unilateral cortical inactivation or deprivation is predicted by the STDP-based model but is inconsistent with BCM model. Although our model is a highly simplified and limited representation of the corticospinal system, it offers an explanation of how constraint as an intervention can help the system to escape from a suboptimal solution. This is a display of an emergent phenomenon from the synaptic competition.
In vitro evaluation of antibacterial efficacy of vancomycin-loaded suture tapes and cerclage wires
Authors: Eidmann Annette , Ewald Andrea , Boelch Sebastian P. , Rudert Maximilian , Holzapfel Boris M. , Stratos Ioannis
Published: April 2021

Usage of implants containing antibiotic agents has been a common strategy to prevent implant related infections in orthopedic surgery. Unfortunately, most implants with microbial repellent properties are characterized by accessibility limitations during daily clinical practice. Aim of this in vitro study was to investigate whether suture tapes and cerclage wires, which were treated with vancomycin, show a sustainable antibacterial activity. For this purpose, we used 24 stainless steel wire cerclages and 24 ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene and polyester suture tape test bodies. The test bodies were incubated for 30 min. in 100 mg/ml vancomycin solution or equivalent volumes of 0.9% NaCl. After measuring the initial solution uptake of the test bodies, antibacterial efficacy via agar diffusion test with Staphylococcus aureus and vancomycin elution tests were performed 1, 2, 3, and 6 days after incubation. Vancomycin-loaded tapes as well as vancomycin-loaded cerclage wires demonstrated increased bacterial growth inhibition when compared to NaCl-treated controls. Vancomycin-loaded tapes showed an additional twofold and eightfold increase of bacterial growth inhibition compared to vancomycin-loaded wires at day 1 and 2, respectively. Elution tests at day 1 revealed high levels of vancomycin concentration in vancomycin loaded tapes and wires. Additionally, the concentration in vancomycin loaded tapes was 14-fold higher when compared to vancomycin loaded wires. Incubating suture tapes and cerclage wires in vancomycin solution showed a good short-term antibacterial activity compared to controls. Considering the ease of vancomycin application on suture tapes or wires, our method could represent an attractive therapeutic strategy in biofilm prevention in orthopedic surgery.
Foregrounding Intersectionality in Considerations of Diversity: Confronting Discrimination in Science Teacher Education
Authors: Burke Lydia E. Carol-Ann
Published: April 2021

This paper contributes to a small but significant body of research addressing issues of prejudice in science education. It is written in the form of a critical incident analysis that uses the framework of intersectionality to examine deficit ideologies and biases inherent in science as a body of knowledge as well as science teacher education. If left unchecked, these prejudices can filter through into school science education, reinforcing the stereotypes of who can contribute to the field of science. The paper makes a call for science teacher educators to support teacher candidates as they move past an academic understanding of diversity in science education to examine their personal dispositions. Suggestions are made for approaches that can be adopted to facilitate the forms of deconstruction necessary for progress to be made in this area.
The effects of intradermal M. bovis and M. avium PPD test on immune-related mRNA and miRNA in dermal oedema exudates of water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis)
Authors: Catozzi Carlotta , Zamarian Valentina , Marziano Gabriele , Costa Emanuela Dalla , Martucciello Alessandra , Serpe Paola , Vecchio Domenico , Lecchi Cristina , De Carlo Esterina , Ceciliani Fabrizio
Published: April 2021

Tuberculosis (TB) is a zoonotic disease primarily caused by pathogens belonging to the genus of Mycobacterium. Programs of control and eradication for bovine TB include a screening using single intradermal tuberculin (SIT) test with Mycobacterium bovis (M. bovis)-purified protein derivatives (PPD-B) single or concurrent with Mycobacterium avium (M. avium)-purified protein derivatives (PPD-A). This study aimed to determine the effects of intradermal PPD-B and PPD-A test on immune-related mRNA and microRNAs in dermal oedema exudates of water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis). The investigation was carried out on RNA extracted from dermal oedema exudates of 36 animals, of which 24 were M. bovis positive (M. bovis+) and 12 M. avium positive (M. avium+). The lymphocyte polarization toward Th1, Th2, TReg, and Th17 lineages was addressed by measuring the abundance of the respective cytokines and transcription factors, namely TBET, STAT4, IFNγ, and IL1β for Th1; STAT5B, and IL4 for Th2; FOXP3 and IL10 for TReg; and RORC, STAT3, and IL17A for Th17. Due to the very low abundance of Th17-related genes, a digital PCR protocol was also applied. The abundance of microRNAs involved in the immune response against PPDs, including miR-122-5p, miR-148a-3p, miR30a, and miR-455-5p, was equally measured. Results showed that IFNγ (fold change = 2.54; p = 0.037) and miR-148a-3p (fold change = 2.54; p = 0.03) were upregulated in M. bovis+ as compared to M. avium+ samples. Our preliminary results supported the pivotal role of IFNγ in the local immune response related to PPD-B and highlighted the differential expression of miR-148a-3p, which downregulates the proinflammatory cytokines and the TLR4-mediated NF-κB activation, providing an anti-inflammation modulator in responses to mycobacterial infection.
Gut Microbial Metabolites in Parkinson’s Disease: Implications of Mitochondrial Dysfunction in the Pathogenesis and Treatment
Authors: Liang Yixuan , Cui Li , Gao Jiguo , Zhu Mingqin , Zhang Ying , Zhang Hong-Liang
Published: April 2021

The search for therapeutic targets for Parkinson’s disease (PD) is hindered by the incomplete understanding of the pathophysiology of the disease. Mitochondrial dysfunction is an area with high potential. The neurobiological signaling connections between the gut microbiome and the central nervous system are incompletely understood. Multiple lines of evidence suggest that the gut microbiota participates in the pathogenesis of PD. Gut microbial dysbiosis may contribute to the loss of dopaminergic neurons through mitochondrial dysfunction. The intervention of gut microbial metabolites via the microbiota-gut-brain axis may serve as a promising therapeutic strategy for PD. In this narrative review, we summarize the potential roles of gut microbial dysbiosis in PD, with emphasis on microbial metabolites and mitochondrial function. We then review the possible ways in which microbial metabolites affect the central nervous system, as well as the impact of microbial metabolites on mitochondrial dysfunction. We finally discuss the possibility of gut microbiota as a therapeutic target for PD.
Cenchrus pseudotriticoides (Poaceae: Panicoideae), a resilient pyrophyte grass from Central Madagascar
Authors: Vorontsova Maria S.
Published: April 2021

A new combination is made placingPennisetum pseudotriticoidesin the genusCenchrus. This species is common and often dominant in the southern part of central Madagascar, associated with inundation and fire, and withstanding high grazing. A description, a detailed plate, a map, and list of known specimens are provided.
Prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 in Communities Through Wastewater Surveillance—a Potential Approach for Estimation of Disease Burden
Authors: Bhattacharya Prosun , Kumar Manish , Islam Md. Tahmidul , Haque Rehnuma , Chakraborty Sudip , Ahmad Arslan , Niazi Nabeel Khan , Cetecioglu Zeynep , Nilsson David , Ijumulana Julian , van der Voorn Tom , Jakariya Md. , Hossain Maqsud , Ahmed Firoz , Rahman Mahbubur , Akter Nargis , Johnston Dara , Ahmed Kazi Matin
Published: April 2021

The episodic outbreak of COVID-19 due to SARS-CoV-2 is severely affecting the economy, and the global count of infected patients is increasing. The actual number of patients had been underestimated due to limited facilities for testing as well as asymptomatic nature of the expression of COVID-19 on individual basis. Tragically, for emerging economies with high population density, the situation has been more complex due to insufficient testing facilities for diagnosis of the disease. However, the recent reports about persistent shedding of viral RNA of SARS-CoV-2 in the human feces have created a possibility to track the prevalence and trends of the disease in communities, known as wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE). In this article, we highlight the current limitations and future prospects for WBE to manage pandemics.
Treaty-text Loyalists’ Burden with Subsequent State Practice
Authors: Chigara Benedict Abrahamson
Published: April 2021

The role of subsequent state practice in the procedural law of treaties, and in the determination of consent in the implementation of treaties have become the subject of much scholarly debate in recent times. The UN International Law Commission has devoted copious amounts of study time into these issues under the distinguished guidance of Georg Nolte as Special Rapporteur. Ph.D. theses and research monographs, journal articles and commentaries have appeared on the matter, but the debate persists. At one end of this debate are treaty-text loyalists that reject the potential of subsequent state practice to modify what they regard as ‘solemn oaths’ taken by states when they conclude and adopt a treaty. That ‘temporal declaration of consent’ by states to be bound by a treaty regime is for them sacrosanct. At the other end are analytical jurisprudence scholars who appear to insist upon a purpose test approach to the matter. This article evaluates treaty-text loyalists’ arguments under current state practice on treaty implementation across a number of disciplines. It shows that the view that ‘temporal consent’ supremely prohibits the modification of treaties through subsequent state practice is exaggerated. Moreover, the ‘solemn oaths’ perception of treaties is not supported by recent examples of treaty implementation.
Vehicle handling improvements through Steer-by-Wire
Authors: Sterthoff Jan , Henze Roman , Küçükay Ferit
Published: April 2021

This paper focuses on handling improvements enabled through Steer-by-Wire systems, which have increasingly become subject of R&D, as they not only offer the potential for improving vehicle handling but also have many advantages in combination with automated driving. Handling improvements through a steering ratio depending on vehicle speed, as well as steering-wheel angle, are known from Active Front Steering systems. A new overall concept is proposed, that also takes into account lateral and longitudinal acceleration as well as steering rate, which are all available signals in a production car. The overall concept is designed in an optimization process to modify a range of established characteristic parameters known from open-loop maneuvers and the objective evaluation of vehicle handling. In this context, validated models for a vehicle and a Steer-by-Wire system are used to obtain reliable results in simulation. Possibilities for tuning the non-linear steering behavior as well as improvements in the dynamic behavior, especially in yaw damping and response time, are demonstrated.