bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Necessary and sufficient stability conditions for integral delay systems
Authors: Ortiz Reynaldo , Egorov Alexey , Mondié Sabine
Published: November 2021

A Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional with prescribed derivative whose construction does not require the stability of the system is introduced. It leads to the presentation of stability/instability theorems. By evaluating the functional at initial conditions depending on the fundamental matrix we are able to present necessary and sufficient stability conditions expressed exclusively in terms of the delay Lyapunov matrix for integral delay systems. Some examples illustrate and validate the stability conditions.
TagLab: AI‐assisted annotation for the fast and accurate semantic segmentation of coral reef orthoimages
Authors: Pavoni Gaia , Corsini Massimiliano , Ponchio Federico , Muntoni Alessandro , Edwards Clinton , Pedersen Nicole , Sandin Stuart , Cignoni Paolo
Published: November 2021

Semantic segmentation is a widespread image analysis task; in some applications, it requires such high accuracy that it still has to be done manually, taking a long time. Deep learning‐based approaches can significantly reduce such times, but current automated solutions may produce results below expert standards. We propose agLab, an interactive tool for the rapid labelling and analysis of orthoimages that speeds up semantic segmentation. TagLab follows a human‐centered artificial intelligence approach that, by integrating multiple degrees of automation, empowers human capabilities. We evaluated TagLab's efficiency in annotation time and accuracy through a user study based on a highly challenging task: the semantic segmentation of coral communities in marine ecology. In the assisted labelling of corals, TagLab increased the annotation speed by approximately 90% for nonexpert annotators while preserving the labelling accuracy. Furthermore, human–machine interaction has improved the accuracy of fully automatic predictions by about 7% on average and by 14% when the model generalizes poorly. Considering the experience done through the user study, TagLab has been improved, and preliminary investigations suggest a further significant reduction in annotation times.
A Bioinspired Hemostatic Powder Derived from the Skin Secretion ofAndrias davidianusfor Rapid Hemostasis and Intraoral Wound Healing
Authors: Zhang Ximu , Jiang Lin , Li Xian , Zheng Liwen , Dang Ruyi , Liu Xiang , Wang Xiaoping , Chen Liling , Zhang Yu Shrike , Zhang Jixi , Yang Deqin
Published: November 2021

High‐performance hemostasis has become increasingly essential in treating various traumas. However, available topical hemostats still have various drawbacks and side‐effects. Herein, hemostatic powders derived from the skin secretion ofAndrias davidianus(SSAD) with controllable particle size are prepared using feasible frozen‐ball milling following lyophilization for hemorrhage‐control. Scanning electron microscopy, rheometry, and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller test are used to characterize the coagulation‐promoting surface topography, rheological properties, and porous structure of the SSAD particles. The blood‐coagulation assays showed that the SSAD powders can induce blood‐absorption in a particle size‐dependent manner. Particle sizes of the SSAD powders larger than 200 µm and smaller than 800 µm greatly affect the blood‐clotting rate. Associated with the thromboelastography (TEG) and amino acid/protein composition analyses, the accessibility and diffusion of blood are mainly dependent on the wettability, adhesivity, and clotting factors of the SSAD particles. Rapid hemostasis in vivo further involves three hemorrhage models (liver, femoral artery, and tail) as well as an oral wound model, which suggest favorable hemostatic and simultaneous regenerative effects of the SSAD hemostatic powder. Considering its degradability and good biocompatibility, SSAD can be an optimal candidate for a new class of inexpensive, natural, and promising hemostatic and wound‐dressing agent.
Phthalocyanine‐Triggered Helical Dipeptide Nanotubes with Intense Circularly Polarized Luminescence
Authors: Wang Xiqian , Zhao Luyang , Wang Chiming , Feng Xuenan , Ma Qing , Yang Gengxiang , Wang Tianyu , Yan Xuehai , Jiang Jianzhuang
Published: November 2021

Nanotubes with circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) are attracting much attention due to many potential applications, such as chiroptical materials, displays, and sensing. However, it remains a challenge to change the assemblies of ordinarily molecular building blocks into CPL supramolecular nanotubes. Herein, the regulation of quite common dipeptide (Fmoc‐FF) assemblies into unprecedented helical nanotubes exhibiting intense CPL is reported by simply doping a few phthalocyanine (octakis(carboxyl)phthalocyaninato zinc complex (Pc)) molecules. Interestingly, altering the Fmoc‐FF/Pc molar ratios over a wide range cannot change the nanotubes structures according to transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and atomic force microscope (AFM) measurements. Although molecular dynamics simulations suggest that the noncovalent interactions between Fmoc‐FF and Pc are quite weak, few Pc molecules can still change the secondary structures of a large number of Fmoc‐FF assemblies, which hierarchically form helical supramolecular nanotubes with long‐range ordered molecular packing, leading to intense CPL signals with large luminescence dissymmetry factor (glum = 0.04). Consequently, the chiral reorganization of Fmoc‐FF assemblies is dependent on the coassembly between Pc molecule and Fmoc‐FF supramolecular architectures. These results open the possibility for the fine‐tuning of helix and supramolecular nanotubes with CPL properties by using a small number of cofactors.
Fight silent horror unit test methods by consulting a TestWizard
Authors: Cerioli Maura , Lagorio Giovanni , Leotta Maurizio , Ricca Filippo
Published: November 2021

Tests, when not correctly implemented, can pass on incorrect system implementations rather than fail. In this case, they are named silent horrors or false‐negative tests. They make releasing low‐quality (buggy) versions of the software system more probable. Furthermore, faithfully implementing test specifications is crucial when they play the role of documentation, like when documenting components or services or driving legacy systems' re‐engineering. This paper presents TestWizard, a novel approach and tool for automatically assessing individual tests' quality from the point of view of their coherence to specifications. TestWizard automatically assesses the quality of each individual test case w.r.t. its specification, providing detailed reports on why a single test is a false negative, hence helping testers fix them. Thus, TestWizard can help to automate the test code review process, which is still mainly manual today. The analysis of 1012 test implementations, developed by 123 students in three experiments, shows that TestWizard is (1) by far more accurate than code review performed by multiple students, (2) slightly better than code review performed by three senior experts, and (3) always able to detect a significant percentage of false‐negative test methods (up to 21.22%).
Online Monitoring Data Processing Method of Transformer Oil Chromatogram Based on Association Rules
Authors: Tong Chao , Zhu Ziwei , Zhang Yining , Zhou Mengyao , Peng Sui , Shan Songxing , Wang Peng , Liu Yuting , Tong Tao , Zeng Leilei
Published: November 2021

The oil chromatography online monitoring system can monitor the insulation status of power transformers continuously and real‐time. The accuracy of its detection data directly affects the stable operation of the transformers. Aiming at the problem of abnormal data in the current transformer online monitoring data set, this paper proposes an online oil chromatographic data processing method based on association rules and support vector regression (SVR) analysis. First, using piecewise linearization to convert numerical variables into Boolean variables, and then exploring gas indicators with strong correlations in oil chromatogram. Then, using the improved box plot method to detect the abnormal value points in it, and distinguish the data of different abnormal patterns based on the association rules. Finally, the advanced particle swarm optimization support vector regression (APSO‐SVR) algorithm is used to repair the data to improve the credibility of the data set. Using actual transformer oil chromatographic monitoring data for testing, the results show that the proposed data processing method can effectively improve the accuracy of oil chromatographic online monitoring data. © 2021 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
A Semi‐supervised Classification Method of Parasites Using Contrastive Learning
Authors: Ren Yanni , Jiang Hao , Zhu Huilin , Tian Yanling , Hu Jinglu
Published: November 2021

An expected shortfall of supervised learning for medical imaging classification is the insatiable need for human annotation, which is very expensive. Further, for microscopic parasite images, the salient structures are generally fuzzy, and the insignificant textures are noising. This paper proposes a semi‐supervised classification method of three parasites and Erythrocytes microscopic images using a large amount of unlabeled data and a small amount of labeled data for training. It contains a feature extractor trained by contrastive learning and a classifier optimized by Laplacian Support Vector Machine (LapSVM). First, for the deep Convolutional Neural Network feature extractor, we introduce real‐world images with similar and clear semantic information to enhance the structure at the representation level. In addition, we introduce variant appearance transformations to eliminate the texture at the representation level. Second, the gated linear network is adopted as the classifier to realize a piecewise linear separation boundary. The parameters are optimized implicitly by LapSVM using a kernel function composed of the representation and the gate control signals, which are generated from the learned feature extractor. The proposed method shows excellent performance when only 1% of the microscopic images are labeled. As a result, we achieve affordable and accurate diagnostic testing in parasite classification. © 2021 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
RNA modifications as emerging therapeutic targets
Authors: Cayir Akin
Published: November 2021

The field of epitranscriptome, posttranscriptional modifications to RNAs, is still growing up and has presented substantial evidences for the role of RNA modifications in diseases. In terms of new drug development, RNA modifications have a great promise for therapy. For example, more than 170 type of modifications exist in various types of RNAs. Regulatory genes and their roles in critical biological process have been identified and they are associated with several diseases. Current data, for example, identification of inhibitors targeting RNA modifications regulatory genes, strongly support the idea that RNA modifications have potential as emerging therapeutic targets. Therefore, in this review, RNA modifications and regulatory genes were comprehensively documented in terms of drug development by summarizing the findings from previous studies. It was discussed how RNA modifications or regulatory genes can be targeted by altering molecular mechanisms.

This article is categorized under:

RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Disease

RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein‐RNA Interactions: Functional Implications

RNA Processing > RNA Editing and Modification
The Global Diffusion of Work-Injury Insurance: The Role of Spatial Networks and Nation Building
Authors: Breznau Nate , Lanver Felix
Published: November 2021

Work-injury law often marks the beginning of the modern welfare state and as we argue this type of insurance is particularly important to nation-state building: it placates myriad social groups needs and demands while binding them symbiotically with the state. We analyze any first laws and the first instance of social insurance as outcomes in 151 states (1880–2010). Our network diffusion and event history models reveal that spatial proximity and democratization are key predictors of first laws. However, nation-state formation and trade density are additional predictors of social insurance in particular. We conclude with implications of these findings for understanding nation-building within global networks.
Semi-smooth Points in Some Classical Function Spaces
Authors: Derȩgowska Beata , Gryszka Beata , Gryszka Karol , Wójcik Paweł
Published: November 2021

The investigations of the smooth points in the spaces of continuous function were started by Banach in 1932 considering function space $$\mathcal {C}(\Omega )$$

C
(
Ω
)

. Singer and Sundaresan extended the result of Banach to the space of vector valued continuous functions $$\mathcal {C}(\mathcal {T},E)$$

C
(
T
,
E
)

, where $$\mathcal {T}$$
T
is a compact metric space. The aim of this paper is to present a description of semi-smooth points in spaces of continuous functions $$\mathcal {C}_0(\mathcal {T},E)$$

C
0

(
T
,
E
)

(instead of smooth points). Moreover, we also find necessary and sufficient condition for semi-smoothness in the general case.
Diabetes in der Schwangerschaft: Strategien inklusive Bewegungsprogramme
Authors: Martin Marina , Vogt Claudia , Quack Lötscher Katharina
Published: November 2021

Bei etwa jeder neunten Schwangeren wird im Verlauf der Schwangerschaft ein Gestationsdiabetes diagnostiziert. Das Screeningprogramm gehört zur GCP („good clinical practice“) und wird weit verbreitet angewandt. Nach der Diagnose sind viele Frauen verunsichert und sind dankbar für Instruktionen, da sie beim Gestationsdiabetes vieles selbst beeinflussen können. Im Beitrag werden die möglichen Interventionen vorgestellt.
Baldwin versus Cecchini revisited: the growth impact of the European Single Market
Authors: Lehtimäki Jonne , Sondermann David
Published: November 2021

The European Single Market created a common market for millions of Europeans. However, 30 years after its introduction, it appears that the benefits of the common European project are occasionally being questioned at least by some parts of the population. Others, by contrast, strive for deeper integration. Against this background, we empirically gauge the growth effect that arose from the Single Market. Using the synthetic control method, we establish the growth premium for the Single Market overall and for its founding members. Broadly in line with the predictions made by Richard Baldwin at the onset of the Single Market project, we find significantly higher real GDP per capita for the overall Single Market area of around 12–22 %. In comparison, smaller EU Member States seem to have benefited somewhat more compared to larger countries. The estimated growth effects underline the case for further deepening and broadening the Single Market where possible.
Can the need for soft tissue release in total knee replacement be predicted pre-operatively? A study based on surgical navigation
Authors: Hernandez-Vaquero Daniel , Noriega-Fernandez Alfonso , Roncero-Gonzalez Sergio , Ruete-Gil Gorka Luis , Fernandez-Carreira Jose Manuel
Published: November 2021

Introduction

In complex and deformed knees, soft tissue release (STR) is required to obtain symmetry in the femorotibial gap. The objective of this study was to attempt to predict the need for soft tissue release using surgical navigation in total knee replacement (TKR).

Methods

Prospective and non-randomized study. One hundred thirty knees. At the start of navigation, an attempt was made to correct the femorotibial mechanical axis by applying force to the medial or lateral side of the knee (varus-valgus stress angle test). A gap balanced technique with computer-assisted surgery (CAS) was performed in all cases. The ligaments were tensioned, and using CAS visualization and control, progressive STR was performed in the medial or lateral side until a symmetry of the femorotibial gap was achieved.

Results

Eighty-two patients had a varus axis ≥ 3° and 38 had a valgus axis (P < 0.001). STR was performed under navigation control in 38.5% of cases, lateral release (LR) in 12 cases, and medial release (MR) in 38 cases. After performing the varus-valgus stress angle test (VVSAT), the axis of 0° could be restored at some point during the manoeuvre in 28 cases. STR was required in 44.6% of varus cases and 27% of valgus cases (P = 0.05). A significant relationship was found between the previous deformity and the need for MR (P < 0.001) or LR (P = 0.001). STR was more common in male patients (P = 0.002) and as obesity increased.

Conclusion

This study shows that pre-operative factors favouring the need to perform STR in a TKR implant can be defined.
The Role of HbA1c as a Positive Perioperative Predictor of Surgical Site and Other Postoperative Infections: An Explorative Analysis in Patients Undergoing Minor to Major Surgery
Authors: Kopp Lugli Andrea , Marti Walter R. , Salm Lilian , Mujagic Edin , Bundi Marcel , von Strauss Marco , Bucheli Laffer Evelin , Landin Julia , Fux Christoph A. , Coslovsky Michael , Weber Walter Paul , Kindler Christoph
Published: November 2021

Background

Patients with diabetes mellitus type 2 (DM2) inhere impaired peripheral insulin action leading to higher perioperative morbidity and mortality rates, with hospital‐acquired infections being one important complication. This post hoc, observational study aimed to analyze the impact of surgical and metabolic stress as defined by the surrogate marker hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), in relation to self‐reported DM2, on perioperative infection rates in a subcohort of the Surgical Site Infection (SSI) Trial population.

Methods

All patients of the SSI study were screened for HbA1c levels measured perioperatively for elective or emergency surgery and classified according to the American Diabetes Association HbA1c cutoff values. SSI and nosocomial infections, self‐reported state of DM2 and type of surgery (minor, major) were assessed.

Results

HbA1c levels were measured in 139 of 5175 patients (2.7%) of the complete SSI study group. Seventy patients (50.4%) self‐reported DM2, while 69 (49.6%) self‐reported to be non‐diabetic. HbA1c levels indicating pre‐diabetes were found in 48 patients (34.5%) and diabetic state in 64 patients (46%). Forty‐five patients of the group self‐reporting no diabetes (65.2%) were previously unaware of their metabolic derangement (35 pre‐diabetic and 10 diabetic). Eighteen infections were detected. Most infections (17 of 18 events) were found in patients with HbA1c levels indicating pre‐/diabetic state. The odds for an infection was 3.9‐fold (95% CI 1.4 to 11.3) higher for patients undergoing major compared to minor interventions. The highest percentage of infections (38.5%) was found in the group of patients with an undiagnosed pre‐/diabetic state undergoing major surgery.

Conclusions

These results encourage investment in further studies evaluating a more generous and specific use of HbA1c screening in patients without self‐reported diabetes undergoing major surgery.

Trial registration Clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT 01790529
Diagnostic accuracy of color-coded virtual noncalcium reconstructions derived from portal venous phase dual-energy CT in the assessment of lumbar disk herniation
Authors: Koch Vitali , Albrecht Moritz H. , Gruenewald Leon D. , Yel Ibrahim , Eichler Katrin , Gruber-Rouh Tatjana , Hammerstingl Renate M. , Burck Iris , Wichmann Julian L. , Alizadeh Leona S. , Vogl Thomas J. , Lenga Lukas , Mader Christoph , Martin Simon S. , Mazziotti Silvio , D’Angelo Tommaso , Booz Christian
Published: November 2021

Objectives

To investigate the diagnostic accuracy of color-coded contrast-enhanced dual-energy CT virtual noncalcium (VNCa) reconstructions for the assessment of lumbar disk herniation compared to unenhanced VNCa imaging.

Methods

A total of 91 patients were retrospectively evaluated (65 years ± 16; 43 women) who had undergone third-generation dual-source dual-energy CT and 3.0-T MRI within an examination interval up to 3 weeks between November 2019 and December 2020. Eight weeks after assessing unenhanced color-coded VNCa reconstructions for the presence and degree of lumbar disk herniation, corresponding contrast-enhanced portal venous phase color-coded VNCa reconstructions were independently analyzed by the same five radiologists. MRI series were additionally analyzed by one highly experienced musculoskeletal radiologist and served as reference standard.

Results

MRI depicted 210 herniated lumbar disks in 91 patients. VNCa reconstructions derived from contrast-enhanced CT scans showed similar high overall sensitivity (93% vs 95%), specificity (94% vs 95%), and accuracy (94% vs 95%) for the assessment of lumbar disk herniation compared to unenhanced VNCa images (all p > .05). Interrater agreement in VNCa imaging was excellent for both, unenhanced and contrast-enhanced CT (κ = 0.84 vs κ = 0.86; p > .05). Moreover, ratings for diagnostic confidence, image quality, and noise differed not significantly between unenhanced and contrast-enhanced VNCa series (all p > .05).

Conclusions

Color-coded VNCa reconstructions derived from contrast-enhanced dual-energy CT yield similar diagnostic accuracy for the depiction of lumbar disk herniation compared to unenhanced VNCa imaging and therefore may improve opportunistic retrospective lumbar disk herniation assessment, particularly in case of staging CT examinations.

Key Points

• Color-coded dual-source dual-energy CT virtual noncalcium (VNCa) reconstructions derived from portal venous phase yield similar high diagnostic accuracy for the assessment of lumbar disk herniation compared to unenhanced VNCa CT series (94% vs 95%) with MRI serving as a standard of reference.

• Diagnostic confidence, image quality, and noise levels differ not significantly between unenhanced and contrast-enhanced portal venous phase VNCa dual-energy CT series.

• Dual-source dual-energy CT might have the potential to improve opportunistic retrospective lumbar disk herniation assessment in CT examinations performed for other indications through reconstruction of VNCa images.
Aligning nutrient profiling with dietary guidelines: modifying the Nutri-Score algorithm to include whole grains
Authors: Kissock Katrina R. , Vieux Florent , Mathias Kevin C. , Drewnowski Adam , Seal Chris J. , Masset Gabriel , Smith Jessica , Mejborn Heddie , McKeown Nicola M. , Beck Eleanor J.
Published: November 2021

Purpose

Whole grains, generally recognised as healthy choices, are not included in most nutrient profiling systems. We tested modifications to the Nutri-Score algorithm to determine whether including whole grains would provide an improved measure of food, and overall diet quality.

Methods

The whole-grain content of food, with a minimum cut-point of 25%, was added to the algorithm, following similar methods used to score other health-promoting components such as fibre. We applied and compared the original and the modified Nutri-Score to food composition and dietary intake data from Australia, France, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

Results

At the food level, correlations between whole-grain content and food nutritional score were strengthened using the modified algorithm in Australian data, but less so for the other countries. Improvements were greater in grain-specific food groups. The largest shift in Nutri-Score class was from B to A (best score). At the dietary intake level, whole-diet nutritional scores for individuals were calculated and compared against population-specific diet-quality scores. With modifications, correlations with diet-quality scores were improved slightly, suggesting that the modified score better aligns with national dietary guidelines. An inverse linear relationship between whole-diet nutritional score and whole-grain intake was evident, particularly with modifications (lower whole-diet nutritional score indicative of better diet quality).

Conclusion

Including a whole-grain component in the Nutri-Score algorithm is justified to align with dietary guidelines and better reflect whole grain as a contributor to improved dietary quality. Further research is required to test alternative algorithms and potentially other nutrient profiling systems.
Association between baseline insulin resistance and psoriasis incidence: the Women’s Health Initiative
Authors: Chan Alfred A. , Li Houmin , Li Wendy , Pan Kathy , Yee Jennifer K. , Chlebowski Rowan T. , Lee Delphine J.
Published: November 2021

Small-scale studies offer conflicting evidence regarding the relationship/association between psoriasis and insulin resistance by HOMA-IR (homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance). The purpose of this study was to assess the association between baseline HOMA-IR and psoriasis incidence in a large-scale longitudinal cohort of postmenopausal women. The analysis included 21,789 postmenopausal women from the Women’s Health Initiative. Psoriasis diagnosis was defined by fee-for-service Medicare ICD-9-CM codes assigned by dermatologists or rheumatologists, and a 2-year lookback period to exclude prevalent cases. Baseline HOMA-IR was calculated using the updated HOMA2 model. Hazard rates from the Cox regression models were stratified by age (10-year intervals), on WHI component (Clinical Trial or Observational Study), and on randomization status within each of the WHI clinical trials. The complete model also adjusted for ethnicity, waist–hip-ratio, and smoking and alcohol habits. Among participants free of psoriasis at entry, those with high baseline HOMA-IR (≥ 2) compared to low (< 1.4) had significantly higher risk for psoriasis over 21-year cumulative follow-up (HR: 1.39, 95% CI 1.08–1.79, P-trend: 0.011). In postmenopausal women, higher baseline HOMA-IR levels were significantly associated with higher incidence of psoriasis over 21-year cumulative follow-up. Results from this time-to-event analysis indicate that insulin resistance can precede and is associated with an increased risk of psoriasis. Study is limited by Medicare diagnostic code accuracy and cohort age.
Effects of blood loss on organ attenuation on postmortem CT and organ weight at autopsy
Authors: Heimer Jakob , Chatzaraki Vasiliki , Schweitzer Wolf , Thali Michael J. , Ruder Thomas D.
Published: November 2021

Background

Cases of external hemorrhage are difficult to recognize on postmortem computed tomography (PMCT).

Purpose

To investigate the effects of blood loss on CT attenuation of the spleen, liver, kidneys, and lungs on PMCT and to assess the relationship between blood loss and organ weight.

Methods

A total of 125 cases with blood loss were sex- and age-matched to 125 control cases without blood loss. Individual organ attenuation was measured on transverse CT images. Organ weights of the liver, spleen, kidneys, and lung were extracted from the autopsy protocols.

Results

Organ weight was significantly lower in cases with blood loss (lung 30%, spleen 28%, kidneys 14%, liver 18%) than in controls. CT attenuation of the lungs was significantly lower (30%) in cases with blood loss than in controls. CT attenuation of the spleen and kidneys did not significantly differ between cases and controls. CT attenuation of the liver was significantly higher (25%) in cases with blood loss than in controls.

Conclusion

Blood loss decreases organ weight and CT attenuation of the lungs but appears to have no significant effect on CT attenuation of the spleen and kidneys. The increased liver attenuation in cases with blood loss compared to controls was an unexpected finding and remains challenging to explain. One probable interpretation refers to different levels of hepatic glycogen; however, further work is warranted to substantiate this hypothesis.
Non-verbal cognitive development, learning, and symptoms of PTSD in 3- to 6-year-old refugee children
Authors: Hahnefeld Andrea , Sukale Thorsten , Weigand Elena , Dudek Verena , Münch Katharina , Aberl Sigrid , Eckler Lea V. , Nehring Ina , Friedmann Anna , Plener Paul L. , Fegert Jörg M. , Mall Volker
Published: November 2021

As IQ tests are commonly used as key assessment method, we address the question whether our commonly used standardized IQ tests are appropriate for children from families of diverse cultures and different educational levels in a refugee population. We examined 109 refugee children aged 3–7 years (M = 5.10 years, SD = 1.25) with the “Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children “ (KABC-II; Kaufmann & Kaufmann, 2015) on a language-free scale (Scale of Intellectual Functioning, SIF) and learning performance (subtest Atlantis). With a non-verbal IQ of 81.5 (SD = 18.01), the population mean of the refugee children is more than one standard deviation lower than the mean of the German norm population. Standardized scores follow the normal distribution and are not correlated to any of the assessed markers of adversity (flight duration, time spent in Germany, child PTSD in parent rating, parental symptom load, and parental education level).

Conclusion: The interpretation of IQ test results for refugee children should be done cautiously as results may underestimate their cognitive capacity. Environmental factors, such as high illiteracy among parents in this study, the lack of institutional education of children and high lifetime stress, may explain our findings.

Trial registration: DRKS00021150.

What is Known:• There is a high pervasiveness for the use of standardized IQ tests in the German health and education system to determine eligibility for special education and social services.

What is New:• Refugee children score significantly lower than German children in a language-free IQ test. As results are normally distributed and not correlated to any of the assessed markers of adversity, the low scores in the refugee group might be due to missing formal education.
Asian monsoon projection with a new large-scale monsoon definition
Authors: Dai Xingang , Yang Yang , Wang Ping
Published: November 2021

This paper focuses on Asian monsoon projection with CMIP5 multi-model outputs. A large-scale monsoon herewith is defined as a vector field of vertically integrated moisture flux from the surface to 500 hPa. Results demonstrate that the model ensemble mean underestimated the summer monsoon and overestimated slightly the winter monsoon over South Asia in both CMIP5 historical climate simulation and the monsoon projection for 2006–2015. The major of the bias is the model climate drift (MCD), which is removed in the monsoon projection for 2016–2045 under scenarios RCP4.5 for reducing the uncertainty. The projection shows that two increased moisture flows northward appeared across the Equator of Indian Ocean, the first is nearby Somalia coast toward northwestern part of South Asia, leading to excess rainfall in where the wet jet could reach, and the second starts from the equatorial Sect. (80°E–100°E) toward northeastern Bay of Bengal, leading to more rainfall spreading over the northwestern coast of Indochina Peninsula. In addition, a westward monsoon flow is intensified over the Peninsula leading to local climate moisture transport belt shifted onto South China Sea, which would reduce moisture transport toward Southwest China on one hand, and transport more moisture onto the southeast coast of the China mainland. The anomalous monsoon would result in a dry climate in Northwest China and wet climate in the coast belt during summer monsoon season for the period. Besides, the Asian winter monsoon would be seemingly intensified slightly over South Asia, which would bring a dry winter climate to Indian subcontinent, Northwest China, but would be more rainfall in southeast part of Arabian Peninsula with global climate warming.
Obesity and menopausal status impact the features and molecular phenotype of invasive lobular breast cancer
Authors: Rothschild Harriet T. , Abel Mary Kathryn , Patterson Anne , Goodman Kent , Shui Amy , van Baelen Karen , Desmedt Christine , Benz Christopher , Mukhtar Rita A.
Published: November 2021

Purpose

We investigated the relationship between obesity, menopausal status, and invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC), the second most common histological subtype of breast cancer. Specifically, we evaluated the association between body mass index (BMI), metabolic syndrome, the 21-gene Oncotype Recurrence Score (Oncotype RS), and pathological features in patients with hormone receptor (HR)-positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor-2-negative ILC.

Methods

The study cohort included 491 patients from a prospectively maintained institutional database consisting of patients with stage I-III, HR-positive ILC who underwent surgical treatment between 1996 and 2019.

Results

Contrary to our expectations, we found that lower BMI was significantly associated with having higher Oncotype RS (18.9% versus 4.8%, p = 0.028) in post-menopausal patients, but was not related to tumor characteristics in pre-menopausal patients. Multivariate network analyses suggested a strong relationship between post-menopausal status itself and tumor characteristics, with lesser influence of BMI.

Conclusion

These findings provide further insight into the recently appreciated heterogeneity within ILC and support the need for further investigation into the drivers of this disease and tailored treatment strategies.
Vanishing Boycott Impetus: Why and How Consumer Participation in a Boycott Decreases Over Time
Authors: Lasarov Wassili , Hoffmann Stefan , Orth Ulrich
Published: November 2021

Media reports that a company behaves in a socially nonresponsible manner frequently result in consumer participation in a boycott. As time goes by, however, the number of consumers participating in the boycott starts dwindling. Yet, little is known on why individual participation in a boycott declines and what type of consumer is more likely to stop boycotting earlier rather than later. Integrating research on drivers of individual boycott participation with multi-stage models and the hot/cool cognition system, suggests a “heat-up” phase in which boycott participation is fueled by expressive drivers, and a “cool-down” phase in which instrumental drivers become more influential. Using a diverse set of real contexts, four empirical studies provide evidence supporting a set of hypotheses on promotors and inhibitors of boycott participation over time. Study 1 provides initial evidence for the influence of expressive and instrumental drivers in a food services context. Extending the context to video streaming services, e-tailing, and peer-to-peer ridesharing, Study 2, Study 3, and Study 4 show that the reasons consumers stop/continue boycotting vary systematically across four distinct groups. Taken together, the findings help activists sustain boycott momentum and assist firms in dealing more effectively with boycotts.
Convex projection and convex multi-objective optimization
Authors: Kováčová Gabriela , Rudloff Birgit
Published: November 2021

In this paper we consider a problem, called convex projection, of projecting a convex set onto a subspace. We will show that to a convex projection one can assign a particular multi-objective convex optimization problem, such that the solution to that problem also solves the convex projection (and vice versa), which is analogous to the result in the polyhedral convex case considered in Löhne and Weißing (Math Methods Oper Res 84(2):411–426, 2016). In practice, however, one can only compute approximate solutions in the (bounded or self-bounded) convex case, which solve the problem up to a given error tolerance. We will show that for approximate solutions a similar connection can be proven, but the tolerance level needs to be adjusted. That is, an approximate solution of the convex projection solves the multi-objective problem only with an increased error. Similarly, an approximate solution of the multi-objective problem solves the convex projection with an increased error. In both cases the tolerance is increased proportionally to a multiplier. These multipliers are deduced and shown to be sharp. These results allow to compute approximate solutions to a convex projection problem by computing approximate solutions to the corresponding multi-objective convex optimization problem, for which algorithms exist in the bounded case. For completeness, we will also investigate the potential generalization of the following result to the convex case. In Löhne and Weißing (Math Methods Oper Res 84(2):411–426, 2016), it has been shown for the polyhedral case, how to construct a polyhedral projection associated to any given vector linear program and how to relate their solutions. This in turn yields an equivalence between polyhedral projection, multi-objective linear programming and vector linear programming. We will show that only some parts of this result can be generalized to the convex case, and discuss the limitations.
Embedding and extraction of knowledge in tree ensemble classifiers
Authors: Huang Wei , Zhao Xingyu , Huang Xiaowei
Published: November 2021

The embedding and extraction of knowledge is a recent trend in machine learning applications, e.g., to supplement training datasets that are small. Whilst, as the increasing use of machine learning models in security-critical applications, the embedding and extraction of malicious knowledge are equivalent to the notorious backdoor attack and defence, respectively. This paper studies the embedding and extraction of knowledge in tree ensemble classifiers, and focuses on knowledge expressible with a generic form of Boolean formulas, e.g., point-wise robustness and backdoor attacks. For the embedding, it is required to bepreservative(the original performance of the classifier is preserved),verifiable(the knowledge can be attested), andstealthy(the embedding cannot be easily detected). To facilitate this, we propose two novel, and effective embedding algorithms, one of which is for black-box settings and the other for white-box settings. The embedding can be done inPTIME. Beyond the embedding, we develop an algorithm to extract the embedded knowledge, by reducing the problem to be solvable with an SMT (satisfiability modulo theories) solver. While this novel algorithm can successfully extract knowledge, the reduction leads to anNPcomputation. Therefore, if applying embedding as backdoor attacks and extraction as defence, our results suggest a complexity gap (P vs. NP) between the attack and defence when working with tree ensemble classifiers. We apply our algorithms to a diverse set of datasets to validate our conclusion extensively.
The impact of geographical bias when judging scientific studies
Authors: Kowal Marta , Sorokowski Piotr , Kulczycki Emanuel , Żelaźniewicz Agnieszka
Published: November 2021

The beauty of science lies within its core assumption that it seeks to identify the truth, and as such, the truth stands alone and does not depend on the person who proclaims it. However, people's proclivity to succumb to various stereotypes is well known, and the scientific world may not be exceptionally immune to the tendency to judge a book by its cover. An interesting example is geographical bias, which includes distorted judgments based on the geographical origin of, inter alia, the given work and not its actual quality or value. Here, we tested whether both laypersons (N = 1532) and scientists (N = 480) are prone to geographical bias when rating scientific projects in one of three scientific fields (i.e., biology, philosophy, or psychology). We found that all participants favored more biological projects from the USA than China; in particular, expert biologists were more willing to grant further funding to Americans. In philosophy, however, laypersons rated Chinese projects as better than projects from the USA. Our findings indicate that geographical biases affect public perception of research and influence the results of grant competitions.
Clinical outcome and quality of life in octogenarian patients with muscle-invasive urothelial carcinoma of the bladder treated with radical cystectomy or transurethral resection of the bladder tumor: a retrospective analysis of 143 patients
Authors: Rehme Christian , Fritsch Beatrix , Thomas Luca , Istin Stefan , Burchert Carolin , Hummel Bastian , Baleanu-Curaj Bogdan , Reis Henning , Szarvas Tibor , Ruebben Herbert , Hadaschik Boris , Niedworok Christian
Published: November 2021

Purpose

To compare clinical outcome and quality of life (QoL) in octogenarian patients with muscle-invasive urothelial carcinoma (MIBC) either treated by radical cystectomy (RC) or transurethral resection of the tumor (TURBT).

Methods

We identified octogenarian patients with MIBC in our institutions since 2005. Clinical treatment outcomes and QoL were analyzed. Uni- and multivariable Cox regression analyses, two-tailed Wilcoxon test, Mann–Whitney test and Fisher’s exact test were assessed as appropriate. QoL was evaluated using FACT-G (Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General) questionnaire.

Results

143 patients were identified (RC: 51 cases, TURBT: 92 cases). Mean follow-up was 14 months (0–100 months). Median overall survival (OS) was 12 months in the RC group and 7 months in the TURBT group. TURBT and low preoperative hemoglobin were independent risk factors for reduced cancer-specific survival (CSS) (TURBT: p = 0.019, Hb: p = 0.008) and OS (TURBT: p = 0.026, Hb: p = 0.013) in multivariable analyses. Baseline QoL was low throughout the whole cohort. There was no difference in baseline FACT-G scoring comparing RC and TURBT (FACT-G total score (median): RC 43.7/108 vs. TURBT 44.0/108, p = 0.7144). Increased FACT-G questionnaire scoring was assessed for RC patients (median percentage score change RC 22.9%, TURBT 2.3%, p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

RC and TURBT are feasible treatment options for MIBC in octogenarian patients. In our cohort, RC was associated with increased CSS, OS and QoL. QoL in general was low throughout the whole cohort. Interdisciplinary decision-making has to be improved for these critically ill patients.
Gezielte Injektion von Effektoren durch Kontrolle der Proteindynamik
Authors: Wimmi Stephan , Lindner Florian , Diepold Andreas
Published: November 2021

The type III secretion system (T3SS) enables direct injection of bacterial effector proteins into eukaryotic cells. We found that the dynamic cytosolic interface of the system allows Yersinia enterocolitica to suppress premature secretion at low pH, ensuring rapid activation at the site of action. Exploiting this principle, we developed a light-controlled T3SS based on optogenetic interaction switches, which provides unprecedented spatiotemporal control of protein secretion and translocation.
Antreiber evolutionärer Transformation: die Endosymbiose
Authors: Schreiber Mona , Gould Sven B.
Published: November 2021

Endosymbiosis is a transformative force of evolution. Endosymbionts established billions of years ago shaped the face of earth and more recent ones take up intriguing new duties. Benefits of exploring endosymbioses are manyfold: we gain a better understanding of fundamental biological principles such as why prokaryotes fail to frequently evolve eukaryote-like complexity and can learn how beneficial partnerships are established. 50 years ago, endosymbiosis was met with scepticism, but is now accepted as a phenomenon responsible for some of life’s biggest transitions.
Smart peptides — innovative Anwendungen in Biotechnologie und Pharmazie
Authors: Müller Daniela
Published: November 2021

Peptides are compounds involved in a wide variety of biological roles. Their advantages depend on the strategy applied to produce them and include biocompatibility, low cost, tunable bioactivity, chemical variety, and specific targeting. Consequently, they are able to serve an enormous range of biotechnology and pharmaceutical applications. Including topics ranging from bio-based adhesives to peptide nanosystems for active delivery of drugs to specific biological targets
Klimapflanzen und biologische Wege zu negativen Kohlendioxidemissionen
Authors: Dandekar Thomas , Bencurova Elena , Osmanoglu Özge , Naseem Muhammad
Published: November 2021

Climate plants are critical to prevent global warming as all efforts to save carbon dioxide are too slow and climate disasters on the rise. For best carbon dioxide harvesting we compare algae, trees and crop plants and use metagenomic analysis of environmental samples. We compare different pathways, carbon harvesting potentials of different plants as well as synthetic modifications including carbon dioxide flux balance analysis. For implementation, agriculture and modern forestry are important.
Wie kleine Amyloid-β-Peptide zum großen Problem im Gehirn werden können
Authors: Zangl René , Morgner Nina
Published: November 2021

The formation of amyloid-β oligomers plays a key role in the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. We investigated the aggregation of amyloid-β oligomers by mass spectrometry and ion mobility spectrometry, revealing those structural properties, which lead to the formation of mature fibrils. We can show that the arrangement of the first oligomers is crucial for the topology of the resulting species, leading to the formation of non-toxic aggregates or fibrils.
URGENT 1.5: diagnostic accuracy of the modified HEART score, with fingerstick point-of-care troponin testing, in ruling out acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Koper L. H. , Frenk L. D. S. , Meeder J. G. , van Osch F. H. M. , Bruinen A. L. , Janssen M. J. W. , van ’t Hof A. W. J. , Rahel B. M.
Published: November 2021

Background

The HEART score is a validated risk stratification tool for chest pain patients presenting to the emergency department and was recently investigated for implementation in a pre-hospital setting. Fingerstick (capillary blood) point-of-care (POC) troponin testing enables quick measurements outside the hospital and seems easier to implement than the current venous blood sampling techniques. This study investigates the diagnostic accuracy of the modified HEART score, integrating fingerstick POC troponin testing, in ruling out acute coronary syndrome (ACS).

Methods

The data of 96 patients with chest pain, included in a study investigating a novel POC troponin device under development at the cardiac emergency department, were analysed retrospectively. Based on the patients’ admission data and capillary POC high-sensitivity troponin I (hs-cTnI) results, the modified HEART score was determined. The outcome measure, for evaluating the diagnostic accuracy of the modified HEART score, was the occurrence of ACS.

Results

Of the total study population, 33 patients (34%) were diagnosed with ACS. Seventeen patients (18%) were classified as low risk (0–3 points) and one patient (6%) in this group was diagnosed with ACS. The sensitivity and negative predictive value of the modified HEART score was 97.0 and 97.6%, respectively.

Conclusion

The modified HEART score, integrating capillary POC hs-cTnI results, is a promising tool for ruling out ACS in patients with chest pain presenting to the cardiac emergency department. These results encourage prospective investigation into the integration of fingerstick POC troponin testing in the modified HEART score in a pre-hospital setting.