bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Innovative Sicherheitssonderverglasungen aus Dünnglas und Polycarbonat
Authors: Weimar Thorsten , Andrés López Sebastián , Vuylsteke Laura
Published: June 2021

Der Baustoff Glas ermöglicht in der heutigen Architektur auch großformatige Verglasungen für die Gebäudehülle, die durch die hohe Transparenz einen ungestörten optischen Austausch zwischen innen und außen ergeben. Allerdings steigen mit den höheren Anforderungen, insbesondere an die Sicherheit und den Wärmeschutz, auch die Gesamtdicke und das Eigengewicht der Verglasung durch die zunehmende Verwendung von Verbundsicherheitsgläsern und Dreischeiben‐Isoliergläsern. Die kontinuierliche Entwicklung im Herstellungsprozess ermöglicht mittlerweile aber auch die baupraktische Anwendung von Dünnglas mit Nenndicken unter 2 mm als Alternative. Dünnglas weist ein niedriges Flächengewicht, allerdings verbunden mit einer geringen Querschnittssteifigkeit, auf. Zur Vermeidung von unzulässigen Verformungen unter einer plattenförmigen Beanspruchung wird Dünnglas beispielsweise mit Polycarbonat zu Verbundtafeln laminiert. Die in zwei Forschungsprojekten am Lehrstuhl für Tragkonstruktion der Universität Siegen entwickelten Dünnglas‐Polycarbonat‐Verbundtafeln finden Anwendung als vertikale Verglasung aus Einfach‐ sowie Mehrscheiben‐Isolierglas. Der Verbund aus zwei äußeren Dünnglastafeln mit mindestens einer inneren Polycarbonattafel erfüllt die Anforderungen an Verbundsicherheitsglas und erreicht die höchste Widerstandsklasse P8B gegen manuellen Angriff mit einem im Unterschied zu konventionellen Glas‐Verbund schlankeren und leichteren Aufbau. Im Rahmen der Weiterentwicklung zu einem Dreischeiben‐Isolierglas werden erstmalig alle Schichten für die Angriffhemmung berücksichtigt. Dadurch reduzieren sich für die Sicherheitssonderverglasung mit einem Widerstand gegen manuellen Angriff die Gesamtdicke sowie das Eigengewicht im Vergleich zu üblichen Lösungen unter Einhaltung eines niedrigen Wärmedurchgangskoeffizienten für die aktuellen Anforderungen an den Wärmeschutz.
Novel Malto‐Oligosaccharide‐Producing Amylase AmyAc from Archangium sp. Strain AC19 and Its Catalytic Properties
Authors: Fan Qiwen , Zhang Lei , Dong Chaonan , Zhong Linli , Fang Xiaodong , Huan Minghui , Ye Xianfeng , Huang Yan , Li Zhoukun , Cui Zhongli
Published: June 2021

Functional maltooligosaccharides (MOSs) derived from starch have potential applications in the food industry and medicine due to their specific functional properties. In this study, a novel maltose (G2) and maltotriose (G3)‐producing amylase AmyAc from Archangium sp. strain AC19 is identified. AmyAc is a protein of 874 amino acids, with an N‐terminal signal peptide as well as hydrolase family 13 (GH13) catalytic and C‐terminal binding modules. However, its sequence is not highly similar to any of the reported starch hydrolases. The Vmax of AmyAc is 124 µmol min−1 mg−1 under optimal conditions of 50 °C and pH 7.0. AmyAc catalyzes the conversion of MOSs and soluble starch into maltose and maltotriose as the end‐product with more than 85% purity. AmyAc initially produces G2, G3, and oligosaccharides with even units, following by the release of G2 and oligosaccharides with odd units during later stages of hydrolysis, indicating a distinct catalytic selectivity. The production of MOSs from starch by AmyAc is of significant interest due to potential applications in starch processing.
Comparison of two gas volume measurement systems by evaluating biochemical methane potential
Authors: Konrad Odorico , Hasan Camila , Marder Munique , Zulian Lucas , Guerini Filho Marildo
Published: June 2021

The objective of this study is to compare and analyze the efficiency of an automated measurement system for biogas flow with a control performed by a programmable logic controller (PLC) called the SAMB compared to commercial equipment widely disseminated for this purpose, the automatic methane potential test system (AMPTS II). The objective is to identify the accuracy in gas flow analysis of the two systems. The experiments were conducted in triplicate at a constant temperature of 37°C in anaerobic reactors. Two synthetic substrates and two natural substrates combined with a microbial inoculum were used. Considering the different ways the two systems capture data, the results show that all samples differed statistically between them (p < 0.01) in each system. However, in relation to paired substrates between systems, the samples did not present statistically significant differences (p > 0.05). Thus, with the advancement and globalization of knowledge, it is necessary to develop systems capable of generating standardized, precise, and accurate data. In this context, the systems evaluated here present different forms of methane measurement but the results have no significant statistical differences.
Technical–economic potential of agrivoltaic for the production of clean energy and industrial cassava in the Colombian intertropical zone
Authors: Guerrero Hernández Alejandro S. , Ramos de Arruda Lúcia V.
Published: June 2021

A dispute is being created in the countries between the use of land for photovoltaic generation purposes and agriculture to satisfy food demand. Therefore, the agrivoltaic concept is presented as a dual‐purpose land‐use solution. A technical–economic analysis is carried out to install photovoltaic systems elevated to a considerable height from the ground, and under them, industrial cassava is grown. A mixed‐integer linear optimization model is developed to store energy in a battery bank, reduce the energy absorbed from the electrical grid, and export it for sale in case of surplus. The results show that the producer will obtain a double benefit: the sale of energy and the profit generated by industrial cassava, preserving food security and meeting the growing electricity demand.
Exploring the spatial planning dimensions of urban informal food systems in Nanjing, China
Authors: Zhao Luoman
Published: June 2021

Modern food systems have achieved great success in efficiency and productivity. Long food chains with many food miles and nodes emphasize food processing, packaging, and marketing. These activities have threatened the sustainability of food systems. Many countries have carried out various urban agriculture activities to respond to challenges such as food security issues and climate change. However, small‐scale farming and local food vending that support the lower socioeconomic population groups in China are ignored by legislation and urban planning. This study aims to improve informal food systems by involving informal food production and marketing in spatial planning. In this paper, informal food systems, which refer to the combination of food chains that contain informal activities, are identified based on the Chinese social background. The spatial typologies of production, marketing, and consumption in informal food systems are summarized. Typomorphology is applied to analyze the typology evolution of spaces for informal food systems in the Qinhuai District in Nanjing. The results show that the morphological regions for food production changed more than construction land in 58 superblocks from 2005 to 2019. Agricultural land decreased, and the most common types of change were from fragmented agricultural land (Type P2) to fragmented and temporary arable land (Type P3) to construction land with isolated vegetable plots (Type P4). In this evolution process, the informal food system reflects the deviation between diversified needs in cities and urban planning. A bottom‐up structure is necessary to protect vulnerable groups, especially those involved in small‐scale urban food production.
Suspected spontaneous idiopathic pulmonary pneumo‐haematocele in a dog
Authors: Rochester Alexandra , Gonzalez‐Gasch Esteban , Casamian‐Sorrosal Domingo , Erles Kerstin
Published: June 2021

An 8‐year‐old male neutered Rottweiler was presented to the local veterinary practice for ongoing cough of one‐week duration, intermittent retching and haemoptysis. Medical treatment dispensed by the referring veterinarian achieved mild improvement in the cough and resolution of haemoptysis for approximately six weeks.

Referral was arranged eight weeks after onset of clinical signs, due to relapse of haemoptysis. Computed tomography (CT) and ultrasonography of the thoracic cavity revealed a fluid and air‐filled cystic lesion in the right middle lung lobe. Bronchoscopy showed collapse of the right middle bronchus and bronchioles. A right middle lung lobectomy was performed via right intercostal thoracotomy.

Postoperatively, the patient recovered well and was discharged from hospital three days afterwards. Long term recovery was excellent, and histology results were consistent with an air‐blood filled bulla, with no evidence of foreign material, abscess or neoplasia. A tentative diagnosis of spontaneous idiopathic pulmonary pneumo‐haematocele was made.
Triple stratification effects on bioconvective stagnation point flow pertaining carbon nanotubes due to induced magnetic field
Authors: Areekara Sujesh , Sabu Alappat Sunny , Kumar Rakesh , Mathew Alphonsa
Published: June 2021

The bioconvective stagnation point flow involving carbon nanotubes along a lengthening sheet subject to induced magnetic field and multiple stratification effects has been considered for investigation. Relevant similarity formulas are effectuated in converting the modelled equations into a first‐order system of ODEs and are further treated in MATLAB usingODE45and Newton Raphson method. Illustrations on the consequence of effectual parameters on the physical quantities and the flow profiles are achieved with the aid of graphs. It is observed that the nanofluid temperature profile ascends with augmenting volume fraction and Eckert number. The numerical veracity of the present study is displayed through a restrictive study with prior published works and a commendable agreement is noted. Nusselt number is found to elevate with volume fraction and lower with thermal stratification parameter. Moreover, the findings of the present numerical exploration have applications in biomedical imaging, hyperthermia, targeted drug delivery, and cancer therapy.
Currents, charges and algebras in exceptional generalised geometry
Authors: Osten David
Published: June 2021

Abstract

A classical Ed(d)-invariant Hamiltonian formulation of world-volume theories of half-BPS p-branes in type IIb and eleven-dimensional supergravity is proposed, extending known results to d ≤ 6. It consists of a Hamiltonian, characterised by a generalised metric, and a current algebra constructed s.t. it reproduces the Ed(d) generalised Lie derivative. Ed(d)-covariance necessitates the introduction of so-called charges, specifying the type of p-brane and the choice of section. For p > 2, currents of p-branes are generically non- geometric due to the imposition of U-duality, e.g. the M5-currents contain coordinates associated to the M2-momentum.

A derivation of the Ed(d)-invariant current algebra from a canonical Poisson structure is in general not possible. At most, one can derive a current algebra associated to para-Hermitian exceptional geometry.

The membrane in the SL(5)-theory is studied in detail. It is shown that in a generalised frame the current algebra is twisted by the generalised fluxes. As a consistency check, the double dimensional reduction from membranes in M-theory to strings in type IIa string theory is performed. Many features generalise to p-branes in SL(p + 3) generalised geometries that form building blocks for the Ed(d)-invariant currents.
New physics in the angular distribution of $$ {B}_c^{-} $$ → J/ψ(→ μ+μ−)τ−(→ π−ντ)$$ {\overline{\nu}}_{\tau } $$ decay
Authors: Hu Quan-Yi , Li Xin-Qiang , Mu Xiao-Long , Yang Ya-Dong , Zheng Dong-Hui
Published: June 2021

Abstract

In $$ {B}_c^{-} $$

B
c
−

→ J/ψ(→ μ+μ−)τ−$$ {\overline{\nu}}_{\tau } $$

ν
¯

τ

decay, the three-momentum $$ {\boldsymbol{p}}_{\tau^{-}} $$

p

τ
−

cannot be determined accurately due to the decay products of τ− inevitably include an undetected ντ. As a consequence, the angular distribution of this decay cannot be measured. In this work, we construct a measurable angular distribution by considering the subsequent decay τ− → π−ντ. The full cascade decay is $$ {B}_c^{-} $$

B
c
−

→ J/ψ(→ μ+μ−)τ−(→ π−ντ)$$ {\overline{\nu}}_{\tau } $$

ν
¯

τ

, in which the three-momenta $$ {\boldsymbol{p}}_{\mu^{+}},{\boldsymbol{p}}_{\mu^{-}} $$

p

μ
+

,

p

μ
−

, and $$ {\boldsymbol{p}}_{\pi^{-}} $$

p

π
−

can be measured. The five-fold differential angular distribution containing all Lorentz structures of the new physics (NP) effective operators can be written in terms of twelve angular observables ℐi(q2, Eπ). Integrating over the energy of pion Eπ, we construct twelve normalized angular observables $$ {\hat{\mathrm{\mathcal{I}}}}_i $$

ℐ
̂

i

(q2) and two lepton-flavor-universality ratios $$ R\left({P}_{L,T}^{J/\psi}\right) $$
R

P

L
,
T

J
/
ψ

(q2). Based on the Bc → J/ψ form factors calculated by the latest lattice QCD and sum rule, we predict the q2 distribution of all $$ {\hat{\mathrm{\mathcal{I}}}}_i $$

ℐ
̂

i

and $$ R\left({P}_{L,T}^{J/\psi}\right) $$
R

P

L
,
T

J
/
ψ

both within the Standard Model and in eight NP benchmark points. We find that the benchmark BP2 (corresponding to the hypothesis of tensor operator) has the greatest effect on all ℐi and $$ R\left({P}_{L,T}^{J/\psi}\right) $$
R

P

L
,
T

J
/
ψ

, except $$ {\hat{\mathrm{\mathcal{I}}}}_5 $$

ℐ
̂

5

. The ratios $$ R\left({P}_{L,T}^{J/\psi}\right) $$
R

P

L
,
T

J
/
ψ

are more sensitive to the NP with pseudo-scalar operators than the ℐi. Finally, we discuss the symmetries in the angular observables and present a model-independent method to determine the existence of tensor operators.
Flavorful leptoquarks at the LHC and beyond: spin 1
Authors: Hiller Gudrun , Loose Dennis , Nišandžić Ivan
Published: June 2021

Abstract

Evidence for electron-muon universality violation that has been revealed inb→sℓℓtransitions in the observables$$ {R}_{KK^{\ast }} $$RKK∗by the LHCb Collaboration can be explained with spin-1 leptoquarks in SU(2)LsingletV1or tripletV3representations in the$$ \mathcal{O} $$O(1−10) TeV range. We explore the sensitivity of the high luminosity LHC (HL-LHC) and future proton-proton colliders toV1andV3in the parameter space connected to$$ {R}_{KK^{\ast }} $$RKK∗-data. We consider pair production and single production in association with muons in different flavor benchmarks. Reinterpreting a recent ATLAS search for scalar leptoquarks decaying tobμandjμ, we extract improved limits for the leptoquark masses: for gauge boson-type leptoquarks (κ= 1) we obtain$$ {M}_{V_1} $$MV1>1.9 TeV,$$ {M}_{V_1} $$MV1>1.9 TeV, and$$ {M}_{V_1} $$MV1>1.7 TeV for leptoquarks decaying predominantly according to hierarchical, flipped and democratic quark flavor structure, respectively. Future sensitivity projections based on extrapolations of existing ATLAS and CMS searches are worked out. We find that forκ= 1 the mass reach for pair (single) production ofV1can be up to 3 TeV (2.1 TeV) at the HL-LHC and up to 15 TeV (19.9 TeV) at the FCC-hh with$$ \sqrt{s} $$s= 100 TeV and 20 ab−1. The mass limits and reach for the tripletV3are similar or higher, depending on flavor. While there is the exciting possibility that leptoquarks addressing the$$ {R}_{KK^{\ast }} $$RKK∗-anomalies are observed at the LHC, to fully cover the parameter spacepp-collisions beyond the LHC-energies are needed.
Hyers–Ulam Stability for Cayley Quantum Equations and Its Application to h-Difference Equations
Authors: Anderson Douglas R. , Onitsuka Masakazu
Published: June 2021

The main purpose of this study is to clarify the Hyers–Ulam stability (HUS) for the Cayley quantum equation. In addition, the result obtained for all parameters is applied to HUS ofh-difference equations with a specific variable coefficient using a new transformation.
Metaplectic representations of Hecke algebras, Weyl group actions, and associated polynomials
Authors: Sahi Siddhartha , Stokman Jasper V. , Venkateswaran Vidya
Published: June 2021

We construct a family of representations of affine Hecke algebras, which depend on a number of auxiliary parameters$$g_i$$gi, and which we refer to asmetaplecticrepresentations. We realize these representations as quotients of certain parabolically induced modules, and we apply the method of Baxterization (localization) to obtain actions of corresponding Weyl groups on rational functions on the torus. Our construction both generalizes and provides a conceptual proof of earlier results of Chinta, Gunnells, and Puskas, which had depended on a crucial computer verification. A key motivation is that when the parameters$$g_i$$giare specialized to certain Gauss sums, the resulting representation and its localization arise naturally in the consideration ofp-parts of Weyl group multiple Dirichlet series. In this special case, similar results have been previously obtained in the literature by the study of Iwahori Whittaker functions for principal series of metaplectic covers of reductivep-adic groups. However this technique is not available for generic parameters$$g_i$$gi. It turns out that the metaplectic representations can be extended to the double affine Hecke algebra, where they share many important properties with Cherednik’s basic polynomial representation, which they generalize. This allows us to introduce families of metaplectic polynomials, which depend on the$$g_i$$gi, and which generalize Macdonald polynomials. In this paper we discuss in some detail the situation for typeA, which is of considerable interest in algebraic combinatorics. We postpone some of the proofs, as well as a discussion of other types, to the sequel.
Calibration and validation of predicted genomic breeding values in an advanced cycle maize population
Authors: Auinger Hans-Jürgen , Lehermeier Christina , Gianola Daniel , Mayer Manfred , Melchinger Albrecht E. , da Silva Sofia , Knaak Carsten , Ouzunova Milena , Schön Chris-Carolin
Published: June 2021

Key message

Model training on data from all selection cycles yielded the highest prediction accuracy by attenuating specific effects of individual cycles. Expected reliability was a robust predictor of accuracies obtained with different calibration sets.

The transition from phenotypic to genome-based selection requires a profound understanding of factors that determine genomic prediction accuracy. We analysed experimental data from a commercial maize breeding programme to investigate if genomic measures can assist in identifying optimal calibration sets for model training. The data set consisted of six contiguous selection cycles comprising testcrosses of 5968 doubled haploid lines genotyped with a minimum of 12,000 SNP markers. We evaluated genomic prediction accuracies in two independent prediction sets in combination with calibration sets differing in sample size and genomic measures (effective sample size, average maximum kinship, expected reliability, number of common polymorphic SNPs and linkage phase similarity). Our results indicate that across selection cycles prediction accuracies were as high as 0.57 for grain dry matter yield and 0.76 for grain dry matter content. Including data from all selection cycles in model training yielded the best results because interactions between calibration and prediction sets as well as the effects of different testers and specific years were attenuated. Among genomic measures, the expected reliability of genomic breeding values was the best predictor of empirical accuracies obtained with different calibration sets. For grain yield, a large difference between expected and empirical reliability was observed in one prediction set. We propose to use this difference as guidance for determining the weight phenotypic data of a given selection cycle should receive in model retraining and for selection when both genomic breeding values and phenotypes are available.
In vitro antioxidant and antibacterial activities with polyphenolic profiling of wild cherry, the European larch and sweet chestnut tree bark
Authors: Agarwal Charu , Hofmann Tamás , Vršanská Martina , Schlosserová Nikola , Visi-Rajczi Eszter , Voběrková Stanislava , Pásztory Zoltán
Published: June 2021

This study is a comparative investigation of antioxidant and antibacterial properties of tree bark extracts of three common European species,Prunus aviumL.,Larix deciduaMill. and Castanea sativaMill. The bioactive compounds present in the bark were recovered in 80% aqueous ethanol using ultrasound as the green extraction method. The antioxidant potential of the extracts was assessed with multiple biochemical assays: total phenol content (TPC) expressed in gallic acid equivalent (GAE), 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2′-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS) expressed in trolox equivalent (TE), and ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP) expressed in ascorbic acid equivalent (AAE). Sweet chestnut bark extract showed the highest antioxidant activity with TPC of 174.25 ± 16.95 mg GAE/g dry weight, DPPH (IC50) of 2.69 ± 0.03 μg/mL, ABTS of 739.65 ± 24.41 mg TE/g dry weight and FRAP of 207.49 ± 3.62 mg AAE/g dry weight. The antibacterial activity of the extracts was evaluated by disk diffusion test, minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) assay and bacterial growth curves. Sweet chestnut bark extract gave IC50values of 0.25 mg/mL and 1.00 mg/mL againstE. coliandS. aureus, respectively. The polyphenolic profiling of the bark extracts was performed to identify the major compounds responsible for the bioactivities using high-performance liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC–MS/MS). The bark extracts were rich in natural antioxidants, thus holding tremendous potential for use as natural additives in food industry.

Graphic abstract
“BreaThink”: breathing affects production and perception of quantities
Authors: Belli Francesco , Felisatti Arianna , Fischer Martin H.
Published: June 2021

Cognition is shaped by signals from outside and within the body. Following recent evidence of interoceptive signals modulating higher-level cognition, we examined whether breathing changes the production and perception of quantities. In Experiment 1, 22 adults verbally produced on average larger random numbers after inhaling than after exhaling. In Experiment 2, 24 further adults estimated the numerosity of dot patterns that were briefly shown after either inhaling or exhaling. Again, we obtained on average larger responses following inhalation than exhalation. These converging results extend models of situated cognition according to which higher-level cognition is sensitive to transient interoceptive states.
Correction to: Functional 4-D clustering for characterizing intratumor heterogeneity in dynamic imaging: evaluation in FDG PET as a prognostic biomarker for breast cancer
Authors: Chitalia Rhea , Viswanath Varsha , Pantel Austin R. , Peterson Lanell M. , Gastounioti Aimilia , Cohen Eric A. , Muzi Mark , Karp Joel , Mankoff David A. , Kontos Despina
Published: June 2021

A Correction to this paper has been published: 10.1007/s00259-021-05324-0
Phase I/II clinical trial of adoptive cell transfer of sorted specific T cells for metastatic melanoma patients
Authors: Dréno Brigitte , Khammari Amir , Fortun Agnès , Vignard Virginie , Saiagh Soraya , Beauvais Tiffany , Jouand Nicolas , Bercegay Sylvain , Simon Sylvain , Lang François , Labarrière Nathalie
Published: June 2021

Adoptive cell transfer (ACT) of tumor-specific T lymphocytes represents a relevant therapeutic strategy to treat metastatic melanoma patients. Ideal T-cells should combine tumor specificity and reactivity with survival in vivo, while avoiding autoimmune side effects. Here we report results from a Phase I/II clinical trial (NCT02424916, performed between 2015 and 2018) in which 6 metastatic HLA-A2 melanoma patients received autologous antigen-specific T-cells produced from PBMC, after peptide stimulation in vitro, followed by sorting with HLA-peptide multimers and amplification. Each patient received a combination of Melan-A and MELOE-1 polyclonal specific T-cells, whose specificity and anti-tumor reactivity were checked prior to injection, with subcutaneous IL-2. Transferred T-cells were also characterized in terms of functional avidity, diversity and phenotype and their blood persistence was evaluated. An increase in specific T-cells was detected in the blood of all patients at day 1 and progressively disappeared from day 7 onwards. No serious adverse events occurred after this ACT. Clinically, five patients progressed and one patient experienced a partial response following therapy. Melan-A and MELOE-1 specific T-cells infused to this patient were diverse, of high avidity, with a high proportion of T lymphocytes co-expressing PD-1 and TIGIT but few other exhaustion markers. In conclusion, we demonstrated the feasibility and safety of ACT with multimer-sorted Melan-A and MELOE-1 specific T cells to metastatic melanoma patients. The clinical efficacy of such therapeutic strategy could be further enhanced by the selection of highly reactive T-cells, based on PD-1 and TIGIT co-expression, and a combination with ICI, such as anti-PD-1.
Optimising breast cancer screening reading: blinding the second reader to the first reader’s decisions
Authors: Cooper Jennifer A. , Jenkinson David , Stinton Chris , Wallis Matthew G. , Hudson Sue , Taylor-Phillips Sian
Published: June 2021

Objectives

In breast cancer screening, two readers separately examine each woman’s mammograms for signs of cancer. We examined whether preventing the two readers from seeing each other’s decisions (blinding) affects behaviour and outcomes.

Methods

This cohort study used data from the CO-OPS breast-screening trial (1,119,191 women from 43 screening centres in England) where all discrepant readings were arbitrated. Multilevel models were fitted using Markov chain Monte Carlo to measure whether reader 2 conformed to the decisions of reader 1 when they were not blinded, and the effect of blinding on overall rates of recall for further tests and cancer detection. Differences in positive predictive value (PPV) were assessed using Pearson’s chi-squared test.

Results

When reader 1 recalls, the probability of reader 2 also recalling was higher when not blinded than when blinded, suggesting readers may be influenced by the other’s decision. Overall, women were less likely to be recalled when reader 2 was blinded (OR 0.923; 95% credible interval 0.864, 0.986), with no clear pattern in cancer detection rate (OR 1.029; 95% credible interval 0.970, 1.089; Bayesian p value 0.832). PPV was 22.1% for blinded versus 20.6% for not blinded (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Our results suggest that when not blinded, reader 2 is influenced by reader 1’s decisions to recall (alliterative bias) which would result in bypassing arbitration and negate some of the benefits of double-reading. We found a relationship between blinding the second reader and slightly higher PPV of breast cancer screening, although this analysis may be confounded by other centre characteristics.

Key Points

• In Europe, it is recommended that breast screening mammograms are analysed by two readers but there is little evidence on the effect of ‘blinding’ the readers so they cannot see each other’s decisions.

• We found evidence that when the second reader is not blinded, they are more likely to agree with a recall decision from the first reader and less likely to make an independent judgement (alliterative error). This may reduce overall accuracy through bypassing arbitration.

• This observational study suggests an association between blinding the second reader and higher positive predictive value of screening, but this may be confounded by centre characteristics.
Local anomaly detection in hybrid rocket combustion tests
Authors: Rüttgers A. ,  Petrarolo A.
Published: June 2021

Local anomaly detection was applied to image data of hybrid rocket combustion tests for a better understanding of the complex flow phenomena. Novel techniques such as hybrid rockets that allow for cost reductions of space transport vehicles are of high importance in space flight. However, the combustion process in hybrid rocket engines is still a matter of ongoing research and not fully understood yet. Since 2013, combustion tests with different paraffin-based fuels have been performed at the German Aerospace Center (DLR) and the whole process has been recorded with a high-speed video camera. This has led to a huge amount of images for each test that needs to be automatically analyzed. In order to catch specific flow phenomena appearing during the combustion, potential anomalies have been detected by local outlier factor (LOF), an algorithm for local outlier detection. The choice of this particular algorithm is justified by a comparison with other established anomaly detection algorithms. Furthermore, a detailed investigation of different distance measures and an investigation of the hyperparameter choice in the LOF algorithm have been performed. As a result, valuable insights into the main phenomena appearing during the combustion of liquefying hybrid rocket fuels are obtained. In particular, fuel droplets entrained into the oxidizer flow and burning over the flame are clearly identified as outliers with respect to the main combustion process.

Graphic abstract
How do the grain size characteristics of a tephra deposit change over time?
Authors: Cutler Nick A. , Streeter R. T. , Dugmore A. J. , Sear E. R.
Published: June 2021

Volcanologists frequently use grain size distributions (GSDs) in tephra layers to infer eruption parameters. However, for long-past eruptions, the accuracy of the reconstruction depends upon the correspondence between the initial tephra deposit and preserved tephra layer on which inferences are based. We ask: how closely does the GSD of a decades-old tephra layer resemble the deposit from which it originated? We addressed this question with a study of the tephra layer produced by the eruption of Mount St Helens, USA, in May 1980. We compared grain size distributions from the fresh, undisturbed tephra with grain size measurements from the surviving tephra layer. We found that the overall grain size characteristics of the tephra layer were similar to the original deposit, and that distinctive features identified by earlier authors had been preserved. However, detailed analysis of our samples showed qualitative differences, specifically a loss of fine material (which we attributed to ‘winnowing’). Understanding how tephra deposits are transformed over time is critical to efforts to reconstruct past eruptions, but inherently difficult to study. We propose long-term, tephra application experiments as a potential way forward.
Endurance-oriented training program with children and adolescents on maintenance hemodialysis to enhance dialysis efficacy—DiaSport
Authors: Feldkötter Markus , Thys Sarah , Adams Anne , Becker Ingrid , Büscher Rainer , Pohl Martin , Schild Raphael , Pape Lars , Schmitt Claus Peter , Taylan Christina , Wygoda Simone , Klaus Günter , Fehrenbach Henry , Montoya Carmen , Konrad Martin , Billing Heiko , Schaar Bettina , Hoppe Bernd
Published: June 2021

Objective

Pediatric patients spend significant time on maintenance hemodialysis (HD) and traveling. They are often not capable of participating in sports activities. To assess the effects of exercise training during HD on dialysis efficacy in children and adolescents, we set up a multi-center randomized controlled trial (RCT).

Methods

Patients on HD, age 6 to 18 years, were randomized either to 3× weekly bicycle ergometer training or to no training during HD for 12 weeks. Change in single-pool Kt/V (spKt/V) was the primary outcome parameter.

Results

We randomized 54 patients of whom 45 qualified (23 in the intervention and 22 in the waiting control group, 14.5 ± 3.01 years, 32 male and 13 female) for the intention-to-treat (ITT) population. Only 26 patients finished study per-protocol (PP). Training was performed for an average of 11.96 weeks (0.14–13.14) at 2.08 ± 0.76 times per week and for a weekly mean of 55.52 ± 27.26 min. Single-pool Kt/V was similar in the intervention compared to the control group (1.70 [0.33] vs. 1.79 [0.55]) at V0 and (1.70 [0.36] vs. 1.71 [0.51]) at V1; secondary endpoints also showed no difference in both ITT and PP analysis. No significant adverse events were reported. No bleeding or needle dislocation occurred in 1670 training sessions.

Conclusions

Intradialytic bicycle training is safe, but does not improve dialysis efficacy and physical fitness. However, the study can be considered underpowered, particularly because of high dropout rates. Future studies need better strategies to increase motivation and compliance and other more effective/intensive exercise measures should be evaluated.

Trial registration

The trial was registered in ClinicalTrials.Gov (Clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT01561118) on March 22, 2012.
CuAg and AuAg bimetallic nanoparticles for catalytic and heat transfer applications
Authors: Dsouza Anusha , Shilpa M. P. , Gurumurthy S. C. , Nagaraja B. S. , Mundinamani Shridhar , Ramam Koduri , Gedda Murali , Murari M. S.
Published: June 2021

Bimetallic nanoparticles (BNPs) have drawn significant attention due to their numerous applications. They demonstrate enhanced optical, electrical, thermal, and catalytic properties due to the synergistic effects of monometals present in them. In this work, CuAg and AuAg BNPs have been synthesized using a facile and economical chemical reduction method. Optical characterization was carried out using UV–visible spectroscopy, and effect of pH on optical absorbance was studied. For CuAg and AuAg BNPs, optimum pH was observed to be at 9.4 and 6.39, respectively. Morphological investigation confirms the average diameters of CuAg and AuAg BNPs were to be 65 nm and 30 nm, respectively. Photocatalytic property illustrates the reduction of 4-nitrophenol to 4-aminophenol with a 92% conversion percentage in the presence of CuAg BNPs in 4 min, and rate constant for the reaction was measured to be 8.98 × 10–3 s−1. But for the AuAg BNPs, the conversion percentage was 97% in 8 min and rate constant was found to be 7.95 × 10–3 s−1. Thermal conductivity and viscosity measurements of the nanofluids obtained with CuAg and AuAg BNPs have ascertained them to be efficient candidates for the heat transfer and catalytic applications.

Graphic abstract
External validation of the Briganti 2019 nomogram to identify candidates for extended pelvic lymph node dissection among patients with high-risk clinically localized prostate cancer
Authors: Fukagawa Eri , Yamamoto Shinya , Ohde Sachiko , Yoshitomi Kasumi Kaneko , Hamada Kosuke , Yoneoka Yusuke , Fujiwara Motohiro , Fujiwara Ryo , Oguchi Tomohiko , Komai Yoshinobu , Numao Noboru , Yuasa Takeshi , Fukui Iwao , Yonese Junji
Published: June 2021

Background

We aimed to establish an external validation of the Briganti 2019 nomogram in a Japanese cohort to preoperatively evaluate the probability of lymph node invasion in patients with high-risk, clinically localized prostate cancer.

Methods

The cohort consisted of 278 patients with prostate cancer diagnosed using magnetic resonance imaging-targeted biopsy who underwent radical prostatectomy and extended pelvic lymph node dissection from 2012 to 2020. Patients were rated using the Briganti 2019 nomogram, which evaluates the probability of lymph node invasion. We used the area under curve of the receiver operating characteristic analysis to quantify the accuracy of the nomogram.

Results

Nineteen (6.8%) patients had lymph node invasion. The median number of lymph nodes removed was 18. The area under the curve for the Briganti 2019 was 0.71. When the cutoff was set at 7%, 84 (30.2%) patients with extended pelvic lymph node dissection could be omitted, and only 1 (1.2%) patient with lymph node invasion would be missed. Sensitivity, specificity, and negative predictive values at the 7% cutoff were 94.7, 32.0, and 98.8%, respectively.

Conclusion

This external validation showed that the Briganti 2019 nomogram was accurate, although there may still be scope for individual adjustments.
Local excision and treatment of early node-negative anal squamous cell carcinomas in a highly HIV prevalent population
Authors: Brogden D. R. L. , Kontovounisios C. , Chong I. , Tait D. , Warren O. J. , Bower M. , Tekkis P. , Mills S. C.
Published: June 2021

Background

Anal squamous cell carcinoma (ASCC) is an uncommon cancer associated with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. There has been increasing interest in providing organ-sparing treatment in small node-negative ASCC’s, however, there is a paucity of evidence about the use of local excision alone in people living with HIV (PLWH). The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of local excision alone in this patient population.

Methods

We present a case series of stage 1 and stage 2 ASCC in PLWH and HIV negative patients. Data were extracted from a 20-year retrospective cohort study analysing the treatment and outcomes of patients with primary ASCC in a cohort with a high prevalence of HIV.

Results

Ninety-four patients were included in the analysis. Fifty-seven (61%) were PLWH. Thirty-five (37%) patients received local excision alone as treatment for ASCC, they were more likely to be younger (p = 0.037, ANOVA) and have either foci of malignancy or well-differentiated tumours on histology (p = 0.002, Fisher’s exact test).

There was no statistically significant difference in 5-year disease-free survival and recurrence between treatment groups, however, patients who had local excision alone and PLWH were both more likely to recur later compared to patients who received other treatments for ASCC. (72.3 months vs 27.3 months, p = 0.06, ANOVA, and 72.3 months vs 31.8 months, p = 0.035, ANOVA, respectively).

Conclusions

We recommend that local excision be considered the sole treatment for stage 1 node-negative tumours that have clear margins and advantageous histology regardless of HIV status. However, PLWH who have local excision alone must have access to an expert long-term surveillance programme after treatment to identify late recurrences.
Human papillomavirus in Italy: retrospective cohort analysis and preliminary vaccination effect from real-world data
Authors: Marcellusi A. , Mennini F. S. , Sciattella P. , Favato G.
Published: June 2021

Introduction

The objective of this study was to estimate the lifetime risk of hospitalization associated with all major human papillomavirus (HPV)-related diseases in Italy. Moreover, a preliminary vaccination effect was also performed.

Methods

A retrospective, nonrandomized, observational study was developed based on patients hospitalized between 2006 and 2018 in Italy. All hospitalizations were identified through administrative archives, according to the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-9 CM). Information related to the hospital discharges of all accredited public and private hospitals, both for ordinary and day care regimes, was taken into account. We included hospitalizations related to resident patients presenting one of the ICD-9-CM codes as primary or secondary diagnosis: genital warts (GW); ‘cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN)’ (067.32–067.33); ‘condyloma acuminatum’ (078.11); ‘anal cancers’ (AC) (154.2–154.8); oropharyngeal cancers (OC): ‘oropharyngeal cancer’(146.0–146.9) and ‘head, face and neck cancers’ (171.0); genital cancers (GC): ‘penis cancer’ (187.1–187.9) and ‘cervical cancer’ (180.0–180.9). Data were stratified by birth year and divided into two groups: (a) cohort born before 1996 (not vaccinable) and (b) cohort born after 1997 (vaccinable—first cohort that could be vaccinated at the beginning of immunization schedule in girls since 2008 in Italy). Disease-specific hospitalization risks for both groups were estimated by sex, year and age.

Results

Epidemiological data demonstrate that the peak hospitalization risk occurred at 24–26 years of age for GW (both male and female); 33–41 and 47–54 years for AC males and females, respectively; 53–59 and 52–58 years for OC males and females, respectively; and 54–60 and 39–46 years for GC males and females, respectively. Focusing on GW and GC, vaccinable females demonstrate a significant reduction in hospitalization risks (− 54% on average) compared to nonvaccinable females until 21 years of age (maximum follow-up available for girls born after 1997). Comparing the same birth cohort of males, no differences in hospitalization risk were found.

Conclusions

These results support the importance of primary prevention strategies in Italy and suggest that increased VCRs and time of observation (genital cancers for which vaccination is highly effective, have a latency of some decades) will provide useful information for decision-makers.
Coverage with evidence development schemes for medical devices in Europe: characteristics and challenges
Authors: Federici Carlo , Reckers-Droog Vivian , Ciani Oriana , Dams Florian , Grigore Bogdan , Kaló Zoltán , Kovács Sándor , Shatrov Kosta , Brouwer Werner , Drummond Michael
Published: June 2021

Objectives

Medical devices are potentially good candidates for coverage with evidence development (CED) schemes, as clinical data at market entry are often sparse and (cost-)effectiveness depends on real-world use. The objective of this research was to explore the diffusion of CED schemes for devices in Europe, and the factors that favour or hamper their utilization.

Methods

We conducted structured interviews with 25 decision-makers from 22 European countries to explore the characteristics of existing CED programmes for devices, and how decision makers perceived 13 pre-identified challenges associated with initiating and operating CED schemes for devices. We also collected data on individual schemes that were either initiated or still ongoing in the last 5 years.

Results

We identified seven countries with CED programmes for devices and 78 ongoing schemes. The characteristics of CED programmes varied across countries, including eligibility criteria, roles and responsibilities of stakeholders, funding arrangements, and type of decisions being contemplated at the outset of each scheme. We observed a high variability in how decision makers perceived CED-related challenges possibly reflecting country-specific arrangements and different experiences with CED. One general finding across all countries was that relatively little attention was paid to the evaluation of schemes, both during and at their completion.

Conclusions

CED programmes for devices with different characteristics exist in Europe. Decision-makers’ perceptions differ on the challenges associated with these schemes. More exchange of knowledge and experience will help decision makers anticipate the likely challenges in CED schemes for devices, and to learn from good practices existing elsewhere.
A comparative study on a complex URM building: part II—issues on modelling and seismic analysis through continuum and discrete-macroelement models
Authors: Castellazzi G. , Pantò B. , Occhipinti G. , Talledo D. A. , Berto L. , Camata G.
Published: June 2021

The paper presents the comparison of the results obtained on a masonry building by nonlinear static analysis using different software operating in the field of continuum and discrete-macroelement modeling. The structure is inspired by an actual building, the "P. Capuzi" school in Visso (Macerata, Italy), seriously damaged following the seismic events that affected Central Italy from August 2016 to January 2017. The activity described is part of a wider research program carried out by various units involved in the ReLUIS 2017/2108—Masonry Structures project and having as its object the analysis of benchmark structures for the evaluation of the reliability of software packages. The comparison of analysis was carried out in relation to: global parameters (concerning the dynamic properties, capacity curves and, equivalent bilinear curves), synthetic parameters of structural safety (such as, for example, the maximum acceleration compatible with the life safety limit state) and the response in terms of simulated damage. The results allow for some insights on the use of continuum and discrete-macroelement modeling, with respect to the dispersion of the results and on the potential repercussions in the professional field. This response was also analyzed considering different approaches for the application of loads.
The prognostic significance of Flap Endonuclease 1 (FEN1) in breast ductal carcinoma in situ
Authors: Al-Kawaz Abdulbaqi , Miligy Islam M. , Toss Michael S. , Mohammed Omar J. , Green Andrew R. , Madhusudan Srinivasan , Rakha Emad A.
Published: June 2021

Background

Impaired DNA repair mechanism is one of the cancer hallmarks. Flap Endonuclease 1 (FEN1) is essential for genomic integrity. FEN1 has key roles during base excision repair (BER) and replication. We hypothesised a role for FEN1 in breast cancer pathogenesis. This study aims to assess the role of FEN1 in breast ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS).

Methods

Expression of FEN1 protein was evaluated in a large (n = 1015) well-characterised cohort of DCIS, comprising pure (n = 776) and mixed (DCIS coexists with invasive breast cancer (IBC);n = 239) using immunohistochemistry (IHC).

Results

FEN1 high expression in DCIS was associated with aggressive and high-risk features including higher nuclear grade, larger tumour size, comedo type necrosis, hormonal receptors negativity, higher proliferation index and triple-negative phenotype. DCIS coexisting with invasive BC showed higher FEN1 nuclear expression compared to normal breast tissue and pure DCIS but revealed significantly lower expression when compared to the invasive component. However, FEN1 protein expression in DCIS was not an independent predictor of local recurrence-free interval.

Conclusion

High FEN1 expression is linked to features of aggressive tumour behaviour and may play a role in the direct progression of DCIS to invasive disease. Further studies are warranted to evaluate its mechanistic roles in DCIS progression and prognosis.
Predicting pathological axillary lymph node status with ultrasound following neoadjuvant therapy for breast cancer
Authors: Skarping Ida , Förnvik Daniel , Zackrisson Sophia , Borgquist Signe , Rydén Lisa
Published: June 2021

Purpose

High-performing imaging and predictive markers are warranted to minimize surgical overtreatment of the axilla in breast cancer (BC) patients receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT). Here we have investigated whether axillary ultrasound (AUS) could identify axillary lymph node (ALN) metastasis (ALNM) pre-NACT and post-NACT for BC. The association of tumor, AUS features and mammographic density (MD) with axillary-pathological complete response (axillary-pCR) post-NACT was also assessed.

Methods

The NeoDense-study cohort (N = 202, NACT during 2014–2019), constituted a pre-NACT cohort, whereas patients whom had a cytology verified ALNM pre-NACT and an axillary dissection performed (N = 114) defined a post-NACT cohort. AUS characteristics were prospectively collected pre- and post-NACT. The diagnostic accuracy of AUS was evaluated and stratified by histological subtype and body mass index (BMI). Predictors of axillary-pCR were analyzed, including MD, using simple and multivariable logistic regression models.

Results

AUS demonstrated superior performance for prediction of ALNM pre-NACT in comparison to post-NACT, as reflected by the positive predictive value (PPV) 0.94 (95% CI 0.89–0.97) and PPV 0.76 (95% CI 0.62–0.87), respectively. We found no difference in AUS performance according to neither BMI nor histological subtype. Independent predictors of axillary-pCR were: premenopausal status, ER-negativity, HER2-overexpression, and high MD.

Conclusion

Baseline AUS could, to a large extent, identify ALNM; however, post-NACT, AUS was insufficient to determine remaining ALNM. Thus, our results support the surgical staging of the axilla post-NACT. Baseline tumor biomarkers and patient characteristics were predictive of axillary-pCR. Larger, multicenter studies are needed to evaluate the performance of AUS post-NACT.