bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of objective forecast guidance on tropical cyclone rapid intensity change
Authors: Tam Hiu‐fai , Choy Chun‐wing , Wong Wai‐kin
Published: March 2021

Forecasting tropical cyclone (TC) intensity and rapid intensification (RI) are major challenges for numerical weather prediction models. In the present study, a model post‐processing technique, namely the TC intensity guidance on rapid intensification (TINT‐RI), has been developed for the western North Pacific basin (South China Sea excluded). It combines logistic regression and the naïve Bayes classifier to provide RI forecasts up to the next 48 hr. Predictors describing physical and environmental conditions are taken from the outputs of the European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts model and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration tropical cyclone heat potential field. Several observed TC characteristics such as persistence (change of past 12 hr intensity) are also included in the algorithm. To further reduce the false alarm ratio, the TINT‐RI makes reference to the intensity forecasts from a previously developed statistical‐dynamical TC intensity forecast model and the change of model vertical wind shear. Verification for TCs with RI reveals that the TINT‐RI is significantly more skilful than the direct model outputs from major global numerical weather prediction models and climatology. A case study on extreme RI of Super Typhoon Hato (1713) during its substantial intensification over the Luzon Strait before entering the northern part of the South China Sea is presented to discuss the performance of the TINT‐RI. Potential ways to improve the TINT‐RI such as using sea surface temperature and its anomaly as the oceanic predictor are discussed.
The Spinal Muscular Atrophy Health Index: A novel outcome for measuring how a patient feels and functions
Authors: Zizzi Christine E. , Luebbe Elizabeth , Mongiovi Phillip , Hunter Michael , Dilek Nuran , Garland Connie , Ciafaloni Emma , Zaidman Craig M. , Kissel John T. , McDermott Michael P. , Johnson Nicholas , Sansone Valeria , Heatwole Chad R.
Published: March 2021

Introduction

The Spinal Muscular Atrophy Health Index (SMA‐HI) is a multifaceted, disease‐specific, patient‐reported outcome to measure an SMA patient's perception of their disease burden. In preparation for upcoming therapeutic trials, we examine the validity, reliability, and usability of the SMA‐HI in adults, teenagers, and children with SMA.

Methods

Using data from a cross‐sectional study of 359 international adult patients with SMA, we identified the most relevant symptoms to include in the SMA‐HI. We utilized factor analysis, patient interviews with adults and minors (age 8‐15 years), known‐group validity testing, and test‐retest reliability assessments to evaluate and refine the SMA‐HI.

Results

The SMA‐HI measures overall disease burden and 15 areas of SMA health. Fifteen adult patients and five patients, age 8 to 15 years, participated in semistructured qualitative interviews and found the SMA‐HI to be comprehensive, easily completed, and to have clear meaning. The final SMA‐HI and its subscales demonstrated good internal consistency (Cronbach α = 0.77‐0.96), high test‐retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.60‐0.96), and an ability to differentiate between SMA groups with different disease severities affecting areas such as employment and ambulation (P < .0001 for both).

Discussion

This research provides evidence that the SMA‐HI is a valid, relevant, and reliable outcome measure to assess multifaceted patient‐reported disease burden in older children, teenagers, and adults with SMA. The SMA‐HI provides an opportunity for researchers and clinicians to measure a SMA patient's perception of their health and determine relevant changes in response to therapeutic intervention or disease progression.
Influenza vaccination in autoimmune neuromuscular diseases: A survey of current practices and perceptions
Authors: Roy Bhaskar , Litchman Tess , Torabi Tara , Nowak Richard J.
Published: March 2021

Introduction

Recommendations for receiving the influenza vaccination in patients with autoimmune neuromuscular disorders, such as myasthenia gravis (MG), chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP), or Guillain‐Barré syndrome (GBS), may vary among neurology practitioners. This survey examined the current practices and perceptions of neurologists regarding the influenza vaccination in these patients.

Methods

We performed an Internet‐based survey among neurologists across the United States through online forums for neurologists.

Results

Across practice settings, 184 neurologists followed 6465 MG, 2313 CIDP, and 1907 GBS patients. Among the respondents, 82.6%, 58.8%, and 42.3% reported that they recommend the influenza vaccine for all patients with MG, CIDP, and GBS, respectively. Respondents practicing for more than 10 y were more conservative in recommending the influenza vaccine for all patients with MG. A history of exacerbation following the influenza vaccine was regarded as the most important factor influencing vaccine recommendation for MG and CIDP.

Discussion

Influenza vaccination recommendation practices varied between surveyed neurologists, despite existing guidelines. Clearer professional society recommendations and education are an unmet need based on this apparent knowledge gap.
The Vietnamese version of the nursing critical thinking in clinical practice questionnaire: Translation and psychometric evaluation
Authors: Nguyen Tuan Van , Liu Hsueh‐Erh
Published: March 2021

Aims

This study translated and evaluated the validity and reliability of the Vietnamese version of the Nursing Critical Thinking in Clinical Practice Questionnaire (N‐CT‐4 Practice (V‐v)).

Design

Forward‐ and back‐translation approach developed by Sousa and Rojjanasrirat (2011).

Methods

545 nurses were recruited based on convenience sampling and asked to complete the N‐CT‐4 Practice (V‐v) questionnaire for psychometric testing. Data were collected during June 2019 in three public hospitals located in Southwestern Vietnam. We evaluated translation equivalence, the item content validity index, floor/ceiling effects, construct validity, internal consistency reliability and test–retest reliability.

Results

The N‐CT‐4 Practice (V‐v) questionnaire retained the meaning of the original English version and was clear, explicit and easy for nurses to understand. The item content validity index was 1.0. There were no floor/ceiling effects. The Cronbach's alpha was 0.98. The intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.81. Confirmatory factor analysis indicated that this Vietnamese version fit the proposed model.
Reaction Model for the Aging and Shelf‐Life Prediction of Double‐Base Propellant SF‐3
Authors: Li Jin , Tian Tian , Zhang Guan , Liu Zongkuan , Gu Zhaolin , Niu Jiaxin
Published: March 2021

The prediction and determination of shelf‐life is an important step in the storage and use of ammunition. In this study, the aging reaction model and shelf‐life prediction model of SF‐3 double‐base propellant were studied. First, a theoretical aging reaction model of SF‐3 was developed based on scanning electron microscopy and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy analysis and the aging reaction process. The aging reaction model was also experimentally validated. Then, based on the theoretical aging reaction model and the Arrhenius equation, the stabilizer depletion and mass loss kinetics models were developed. The aging reaction model showed a linear relationship between the stabilizer depletion rate xn and the aging time t, which indicated that the aging reaction is a zero‐order reaction. The rate‐limiting step of the SF‐3 aging reaction was the decomposition rate of nitrate ester compounds. The reaction kinetics model showed that the equation to predict the shelf‐life of SF‐3 was t[d]=1.44×10−13exp(11428.38/T[K]). Additionally, the relationship between the mass loss rate xw and storage temperature T was xw[%]=53.93exp(−446.97/T[K]) at the end of the shelf‐life of SF‐3. The results of this study provide a reference for predicting the aging process of other propellants that use nitrate ester compounds as the main energetic components. It also provides theoretical support for using the mass loss rate to predict the shelf‐life of SF‐3.
Hemoadsorption eliminates remdesivir from the circulation: Implications for the treatment of COVID‐19
Authors: Biever Paul , Staudacher Dawid L. , Sommer Michaela J. , Triebel Hannah , Neukamm Merja A. , Bode Christoph , Supady Alexander , Lother Achim
Published: March 2021

Both antiviral treatment with remdesivir and hemoadsorption using a CytoSorb® adsorption device are applied in the treatment of severe COVID‐19. The CytoSorb® adsorber consists of porous polymer beads that adsorb a broad range of molecules, including cytokines but also several therapeutic drugs. In this study, we evaluated whether remdesivir and its main active metabolite GS‐441524 would be adsorbed by CytoSorb®. Serum containing remdesivir or GS‐441524 was circulated in a custom‐made system containing a CytoSorb® device. Concentrations of remdesivir and GS‐441524 before and after the adsorber were analyzed by liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry. Measurements of remdesivir in the outgoing tube after the adsorber indicated almost complete removal of remdesivir by the device. In the reservoir, concentration of remdesivir showed an exponential decay and was not longer detectable after 60 mins. GS‐441524 showed a similar exponential decay but, unlike remdesivir, it reached an adsorption–desorption equilibrium at ~48 µg/L. Remdesivir and its main active metabolite GS‐441524 are rapidly eliminated from the perfusate by the CytoSorb® adsorber device in vitro. This should be considered in patients for whom both therapies are indicated, and simultaneous application should be avoided. In general, plasma levels of therapeutic drugs should be closely monitored under concurrent CytoSorb® therapy.
Intensity and uncertainty: Performing border conflicts at the US–Mexico borderlands
Authors: Candiz Guillermo , Basok Tanya
Published: March 2021

This article draws on border studies that recognise rebordering practices as ongoing performances of conflict between various actors including state authorities, border security agents, migrants, migrant supporters, smugglers, international organisations, lawyers, advocates and others. We draw attention tovariable levels of intensitywith which these conflicts are performed and the impact they have on migrants' ability to exercise their agency. We understand intensity to mean not merely the emotional discursive environment in which these conflicts unfold, and the pressure tactics used by at least some parties, but, more importantly, the speed of the responses by all actors involved in this border performance. Focusing on rebordering practices at the US–Mexico borderlands in 2018 and 2019 adopted in response to new forms of mobility, we characterise these years as a period of high intensity, when rapidly changing policies provoked immediate responses by migrants, and equally speedy counter‐responses by other actors, particularly the US and Mexican administration. We suggest that the volatile architecture of border control in the US–Mexico borders has rendered many strategies employed by Central American migrants to overcome obstacles and create innovative solutions virtually ineffective. The article is based on an ethnographic study carried out between early May and mid‐August 2019 in Mexico.
Redox‐sensitive signalling pathways regulated by human papillomavirus in HPV‐related cancers
Authors: Cruz‐Gregorio Alfredo , Aranda‐Rivera Ana Karina
Published: March 2021

High‐risk human papillomavirus (HR‐HPV) chronic infection is associated with the induction of different HPV‐related cancers, such as cervical, anus, vaginal, vulva, penis and oropharynx. HPV‐related cancers have been related to oxidative stress (OS), where OS has a significant role in cancer development and maintenance. Surgical resection is the treatment of choice for localised HPV‐related cancers; however, these malignancies commonly progress to metastasis. In advanced stages, systemic therapies are the best option against HPV‐related cancers. These therapies include cytokine therapy or a combination of tyrosine kinase inhibitors with immunotherapies. Nevertheless, these strategies are still insufficient. Cell redox‐sensitive signalling pathways have been poorly studied, although they have been associated with the development and maintenance of HPV‐related cancers. In this review, we analyse the known alterations of the following redox‐sensitive molecules and signalling pathways by HR‐HPV in HPV‐related cancers: MAPKs, Akt/TSC2/mTORC1, Wnt/β‐Cat, NFkB/IkB/NOX2, HIF/VHL/VEGF and mitochondrial signalling pathways as potential targets for redox therapy.
Quantification of the microscale dynamics of live bighead carp egg settlement in static water
Authors: Wan Yunjiao , Zeng Yuhong , Li Mingzheng , Liu Xiaoguang
Published: March 2021

The survival of bighead carp is threatened by the construction and operation of river engineering projects. In order to guide future reservoir regulation to suitably incorporate the ecological requirements of fish, it is important to understand fish egg settlement in static water. Therefore, video capture technology and wavelet analysis in experiments were used to observe and analyze the microscale processes of live bighead carp egg settlement in static water. The study examined the temporal variations in the egg attributes and revealed microscale fluctuations in the trajectories of eggs and changes in settling velocity. The egg settling velocities were divided into both mean and fluctuating components. Both components indicated that bighead carp eggs had different settling velocities depending on the stage of development. Settling velocity is dominated by hydrodynamic drag in the first 22 min post‐fertilization, with a rapid increase in velocity through time, followed by a decrease in velocity and finally a stable value of 0.75 cm/s. The periodicity of the fluctuating component may indicate the importance of the egg inner structure or even the development of the embryo to settling velocity. This work strengthens the understanding of bighead carp egg settlement in static water and provides a clear indication to river engineers and managers of the need to promote the successful drift of bighead carp eggs in rivers to ensure the maintenance of their populations.
The Science of Reading: Four Forces That Modified, Distorted, or Ignored the Research Finding on Reading Comprehension
Authors: Dewitz Peter , Graves Michael F.
Published: March 2021

The science of reading is the latest version of the reading wars brought to national attention by the popular press. Although most of the popular press has focused on phonics and early reading, in this article, we chose to study what happened to the research on reading comprehension. By the beginning of the 21st century, there had emerged a mainstream view of reading comprehension and comprehension instruction. However, four factors distorted, impeded, and swamped the research findings. (1) Commercial publishers fit comprehension instruction into a curricular format that distorted the intent of the research. (2) The No Child Left Behind Act, with its high‐stakes testing and concomitant interim assessments, moved the focus in schools from developing comprehension to passing tests. (3) The publishers’ criteria for the Common Core State Standards promoted instruction that ran contrary to research findings. (4) Problems with the educational research, publication, development, and dissemination process itself further weakened the effect of research on practice. We conclude with suggestions for researchers to better communicate their results and procedures to other educators, suggestions for how the research community can have a greater impact on the development and review of commercial reading materials and policy initiatives, and suggestions for improving the education of future researchers, administrators, and teachers.
Embedment of Multiple Transition Metal Impurities into WS2 Monolayer for Bandstructure Modulation
Authors: Siao Ming‐Deng , Lin Yung‐Chang , He Tao , Tsai Meng‐Yu , Lee Kuei‐Yi , Chang Shou‐Yi , Lin Kuang‐I , Lin Yen‐Fu , Chou Mei‐Yin , Suenaga Kazu , Chiu Po‐Wen
Published: March 2021

Band structure by design in 2D layered semiconductors is highly desirable, with the goal to acquire the electronic properties of interest through the engineering of chemical composition, structure, defect, stacking, or doping. For atomically thin transition metal dichalcogenides, substitutional doping with more than one single type of transition metals is the task for which no feasible approach is proposed. Here, the growth of WS2 monolayer is shown codoped with multiple kinds of transition metal impurities via chemical vapor deposition controlled in a diffusion‐limited mode. Multielement embedment of Cr, Fe, Nb, and Mo into the host lattice is exemplified. Abundant impurity states thus generate in the bandgap of the resultant WS2 and provide a robust switch of charging/discharging states upon sweep of an electric filed. A profound memory window exists in the transfer curves of doped WS2 field‐effect transistors, forming the basis of binary states for robust nonvolatile memory. The doping technique presented in this work brings one step closer to the rational design of 2D semiconductors with desired electronic properties.
Recent Advances in Amino‐Based Molecules Assisted Control of Noble‐Metal Electrocatalysts
Authors: Li Meng , Li Zhijuan , Fu Gengtao , Tang Yawen
Published: March 2021

Morphology‐control synthesis is an effective means to tailor surface structure of noble‐metal nanocrystals, which offers a sensitive knob for tuning their electrocatalytic properties. The functional molecules are often indispensable in the morphology‐control synthesis through preferential adsorption on specific crystal facets, or controlling certain crystal growth directions. In this review, the recent progress in morphology‐control synthesis of noble‐metal nanocrystals assisted by amino‐based functional molecules for electrocatalytic applications are focused on. Although a mass of noble‐metal nanocrystals with different morphologies have been reported, few review studies have been published related to amino‐based molecules assisted control strategy. A full understanding for the key roles of amino‐based molecules in the morphology‐control synthesis is still necessary. As a result, the explicit roles and mechanisms of various types of amino‐based molecules, including amino‐based small molecules and amino‐based polymers, in morphology‐control of noble‐metal nanocrystals are summarized and discussed in detail. Also presented in this progress are unique electrocatalytic properties of various shaped noble‐metal nanocrystals. Particularly, the optimization of electrocatalytic selectivity induced by specific amino‐based functional molecules (e.g., polyallylamine and polyethyleneimine) is highlighted. At the end, some critical prospects, and challenges in terms of amino‐based molecules‐controlled synthesis and electrocatalytic applications are proposed.
Eastward Expansion of Round Goby in New York: Assessment of Detection Methods and Current Range
Authors: George Scott D. , Baldigo Barry P. , Rees Christopher B. , Bartron Meredith L. , Winterhalter Dylan
Published: March 2021

The Round Goby Neogobius melanostomus has spread rapidly around the Great Lakes region since its introduction to North America in 1990. In 2014, a specimen was captured in the New York State Canal System west of Utica, prompting concerns that Round Goby would soon reach the ecologically and economically valuable watersheds of Lake Champlain and the Hudson River estuary. The establishment of Round Goby populations elsewhere has been linked to a number of negative ecological consequences, yet methods for monitoring the invasion front of this species remain limited. The objectives of this study were to assess the current distribution of Round Goby in central New York and to determine the most effective methods for monitoring the invasion front. This was achieved by concurrently using benthic trawling, seining, minnow traps, and environmental DNA (eDNA) twice annually from 2016 to 2019 at 12 sites on the canal system between Oneida Lake and the Hudson River. Of the three traditional gear types, benthic trawling was the most effective method and captured Round Goby as far east as Utica by 2019. This finding suggests only minimal eastward expansion of Round Goby occurred between 2014 and 2019. Round Goby DNA was detected in water samples during all surveys in which individuals were captured with trawling, and the estimated concentration of DNA explained 69% of the variability in trawl catch. At multiple study sites, Round Goby DNA was identified during consecutive surveys before Round Goby were first captured with trawling. This suggests that in lotic waters, eDNA has the potential to forecast or serve as a sentinel for the expansion of Round Goby to new locations. Our results demonstrate the importance of using eDNA in a repeated sampling framework and supplementing eDNA sampling with some level of effort with traditional sampling methods.
Probing new U(1) gauge symmetries via exotic Z → Z′γ decays
Authors: Michaels Lisa , Yu Felix
Published: March 2021

Abstract

New U(1) gauge theories involving Standard Model (SM) fermions typically require additional electroweak fermions for anomaly cancellation. We study the non-decoupling properties of these new fermions, called anomalons, in the Z − Z′ − γ vertex function, reviewing the connection between the full model and the effective Wess-Zumino operator. We calculate the exotic Z → Z′γ decay width in U(1)B−L and U(1)B models, where B and L denote the SM baryon and lepton number symmetries. For U(1)B−L gauge symmetry, each generation of SM fermions is anomaly free and the exotic Z →$$ {Z}_{BL}^{\prime}\gamma $$

Z
BL
′

γ
decay width is entirely induced by intragenerational mass splittings. In contrast, for U(1)B gauge symmetry, the existence of two distinct sources of chiral symmetry breaking enables a heavy, anomaly-free set of fermions to have an irreducible contribution to the Z →$$ {Z}_B^{\prime}\gamma $$

Z
B
′

γ
decay width. We show that the current LEP limits on the exotic Z →$$ {Z}_B^{\prime}\gamma $$

Z
B
′

γ
decay are weaker than previously estimated, and low-mass $$ {Z}_B^{\prime } $$

Z
B
′

dijet resonance searches are currently more constraining. We present a summary of the current collider bounds on U(1)B and a projection for a TeraZ factory on the Z →$$ {Z}_B^{\prime}\gamma $$

Z
B
′

γ
exotic decay, and emphasize how the Z → Z′γ decay is emblematic of new anomalous U(1) gauge symmetries.
Non-Hermitian BCS-BEC crossover of Dirac fermions
Authors: Kanazawa Takuya
Published: March 2021

Abstract

We investigate chiral symmetry breaking in a model of Dirac fermions with a complexified coupling constant whose imaginary part represents dissipation. We introduce a chiral chemical potential and observe that for real coupling a relativistic BCS-BEC crossover is realized. We solve the model in the mean-field approximation and construct the phase diagram as a function of the complex coupling. It is found that the dynamical mass increases under dissipation, although the chiral symmetry gets restored if dissipation exceeds a threshold.
A note on gauge anomaly cancellation in effective field theories
Authors: Feruglio Ferruccio
Published: March 2021

Abstract

The conditions for the absence of gauge anomalies in effective field theories (EFT) are rivisited. General results from the cohomology of the BRST operator do not prevent potential anomalies arising from the non-renormalizable sector, when the gauge group is not semi-simple, like in the Standard Model EFT (SMEFT). By considering a simple explicit model that mimics the SMEFT properties, we compute the anomaly in the regularized theory, including a complete set of dimension six operators. We show that the dependence of the anomaly on the non-renormalizable part can be removed by adding a local counterterm to the theory. As a result the condition for gauge anomaly cancellation is completely controlled by the charge assignment of the fermion sector, as in the renormalizable theory.
Proper time to the black hole singularity from thermal one-point functions
Authors: Grinberg Matan , Maldacena Juan
Published: March 2021

Abstract

We argue that the proper time from the event horizon to the black hole singularity can be extracted from the thermal expectation values of certain operators outside the horizon. This works for fields which couple to higher-curvature terms, so that they can decay into two gravitons. To extract this proper time, it is necessary to vary the mass of the field.
Well-posedness of the classical solution for the Kuramto–Sivashinsky equation with anisotropy effects
Authors: Coclite Giuseppe Maria , di Ruvo Lorenzo
Published: March 2021

The Kuramto–Sivashinsky equation with anisotropy effects models the spinodal decomposition of phase separating systems in an external field, the spatiotemporal evolution of the morphology of steps on crystal surfaces and the growth of thermodynamically unstable crystal surfaces with strongly anisotropic surface tension. Written in terms of the step slope, it can be represented in a form similar to a convective Cahn–Hilliard equation. In this paper, we prove the well-posedness of the classical solutions for the Cauchy problem, associated with this equation.
The impact of regionalized trauma care on the distribution of severely injured patients in the Netherlands
Authors: Dijkink Suzan , van Zwet Erik W. , Krijnen Pieta , Leenen Luke P. H. , Bloemers Frank W. , Edwards Michael J. R. , Hartog Dennis Den , Leenhouts Peter A. , Poeze Martijn , Spanjersberg W. Richard , Wendt Klaus W. , De Wit Ralph J. , Van Zuthpen Stefan W. A. M. , Schipper Inger B.
Published: March 2021

Background

Twenty years ago, an inclusive trauma system was implemented in the Netherlands. The goal of this study was to evaluate the impact of structured trauma care on the concentration of severely injured patients over time.

Methods

All severely injured patients (Injury Severity Score [ISS] ≥ 16) documented in the Dutch Trauma Registry (DTR) in the calendar period 2008–2018 were included for analysis. We compared severely injured patients, with and without severe neurotrauma, directly brought to trauma centers (TC) and non-trauma centers (NTC). The proportion of patients being directly transported to a trauma center was determined, as was the total Abbreviated Injury Score (AIS), and ISS.

Results

The documented number of severely injured patients increased from 2350 in 2008 to 4694 in 2018. During this period, on average, 70% of these patients were directly admitted to a TC (range 63–74%). Patients without severe neurotrauma had a lower chance of being brought to a TC compared to those with severe neurotrauma. Patients directly presented to a TC were more severely injured, reflected by a higher total AIS and ISS, than those directly transported to a NTC.

Conclusion

Since the introduction of a well-organized trauma system in the Netherlands, trauma care has become progressively centralized, with more severely injured patients being directly presented to a TC. However, still 30% of these patients is initially brought to a NTC. Future research should focus on improving pre-hospital triage to facilitate swift transfer of the right patient to the right hospital.
Influence of moisture content on the contact angle and surface tension measured on birch wood surfaces
Authors: Benkreif Rami , Brahmia Fatima Zohra , Csiha Csilla
Published: March 2021

Surface tension of solid wood surfaces affects the wettability and thus the adhesion of various adhesives and wood coatings. By measuring the contact angle of the wood, the surface tension can be calculated based on the Young-Dupré equation. Several publications have reported on contact angle measured with different test liquids, under different conditions. Results can only be compared if the test conditions are similar. While the roles of the drop volume, image shooting time etc., are widely recognized, the role of the wood surface moisture content (MC) is not evaluated in detail. In this study, the effect of wood moisture content on contact angle values, measured with distilled water and diiodomethane, on sanded birch (Betula pendula) surfaces was investigated, in order to find the relationship between them. With increasing MC from approximately 6% to 30%, increasing contact angle (decreasing surface tension) values were measured according to a logarithmic function. The function makes possible the calculation of contact angles that correspond to different MCs.
Identification of eight QTL controlling multiple yield components in a German multi-parental wheat population, including Rht24, WAPO-A1, WAPO-B1 and genetic loci on chromosomes 5A and 6A
Authors: Corsi Beatrice , Obinu Lia , Zanella Camila M. , Cutrupi Saverio , Day Rob , Geyer Manuel , Lillemo Morten , Lin Min , Mazza Lorenzo , Percival-Alwyn Lawrence , Stadlmeier Melanie , Mohler Volker , Hartl Lorenz , Cockram James
Published: March 2021

Key message

Quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping of 15 yield component traits in a German multi-founder population identified eight QTL each controlling ≥2 phenotypes, including the genetic lociRht24,WAPO-A1andWAPO-B1.

Grain yield in wheat (Triticum aestivumL.) is a polygenic trait representing the culmination of many developmental processes and their interactions with the environment. Toward maintaining genetic gains in yield potential, ‘reductionist approaches’ are commonly undertaken by which the genetic control of yield components, that collectively determine yield, are established. Here we use an eight-founder German multi-parental wheat population to investigate the genetic control and phenotypic trade-offs between 15 yield components. Increased grains per ear was significantly positively correlated with the number of fertile spikelets per ear and negatively correlated with the number of infertile spikelets. However, as increased grain number and fertile spikelet number per ear were significantly negatively correlated with thousand grain weight, sink strength limitations were evident. Genetic mapping identified 34 replicated quantitative trait loci (QTL) at two or more test environments, of which 24 resolved into eight loci each controlling two or more traits—termed here ‘multi-trait QTL’ (MT-QTL). These included MT-QTL associated with previously cloned genes controlling semi-dwarf plant stature, and with the genetic locusReduced height 24(Rht24) that further modulates plant height. Additionally, MT-QTL controlling spikelet number traits were located to chromosome 7A encompassing the geneWHEAT ORTHOLOG OF APO1(WAPO-A1), and to its homoeologous location on chromosome 7B containingWAPO-B1. The genetic loci identified in this study, particularly those that potentially control multiple yield components, provide future opportunities for the targeted investigation of their underlying genes, gene networks and phenotypic trade-offs, in order to underpin further genetic gains in yield.
Detraining Effects on Musculoskeletal Parameters in Early Postmenopausal Osteopenic Women: 3-Month Follow-Up of the Randomized Controlled ACTLIFE Study
Authors: Kemmler Wolfgang , Hettchen Michael , Kohl Matthias , Murphy Marie , Bragonzoni Laura , Julin Mikko , Risto Tapani , von Stengel Simon
Published: March 2021

Periods of absence from supervised group exercise while maintaining physical activity might be a frequent pattern in adults' exercise habits. The aim of the present study was to determine detraining effects on musculoskeletal outcomes after a 3-month detraining period in early post-menopausal, osteopenic women. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we terminated the 18-month randomized controlled ACTLIFE exercise intervention immediately after the 13-month follow-up assessment. This put an abrupt stop to the high-intensity aerobic and resistance group exercise sessions undertaken three times per week by the exercise group (EG: n = 27) and the gentle exercise program performed once per week for the attention control group (CG: n = 27); but both groups were permitted to conduct individual outdoor activity for the 3-month lock-down period. Study endpoints were lean body mass (LBM), bone mineral density (BMD) at the lumbar spine (LS), maximum hip-/leg extension strength and power. Detraining-induced reductions of LBM, hip/leg strength and power (but not BMD-LS) were significantly greater (p < 0.001 to p = 0.044) compared with the CG. Significant exercise effects, i.e. differences between EG and CG, present after 13 months of exercise, were lost after 3 months of detraining for LBM (p = 0.157) and BMD-LS (p = 0.065), but not for strength (p < 0.001) and power (p < 0.001). Of note, self-reported individual outdoor activities and exercise increased by about 40% in both groups during the lock-down period. Three months' absence from a supervised group exercise protocol resulted in considerable detraining effects for musculoskeletal parameters. Thus, exercise programs for adults should be continuous rather than intermittent.

Trial registration number: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04420806, 06.05.2020.
Chronic social stress alters protein metabolism in juvenile rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss
Authors: Saulnier Roxanne J. , Best Carol , Kostyniuk Daniel J. , Gilmour Kathleen M. , Lamarre Simon G.
Published: March 2021

When confined in pairs, juvenile rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) form dominance hierarchies in which subordinate fish exhibit characteristic physiological changes including reduced growth rates and chronically elevated plasma cortisol concentrations. We hypothesized that alterations in protein metabolism contribute to the reduced growth rate of socially stressed trout, and predicted that subordinate trout would exhibit reduced rates of protein synthesis coupled with increases in protein degradation. Protein metabolism was assessed in dominant and subordinate fish after 4 days of social interaction, and in fish that were separated after 4 days of interaction for a 4 days recovery period, to determine whether effects on protein metabolism recovered when social stress was alleviated. Protein metabolism was assessed in liver and white muscle by measuring the fractional rate of protein synthesis and markers of protein degradation. In the white muscle of subordinate fish, protein synthesis was inhibited and activities of the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway (UPP) and the autophagy lysosomal system (ALS) were elevated. By contrast, the liver of subordinate fish exhibited increased rates of protein synthesis and activation of the ALS. When allowed to recover from chronic social stress for 4 days, differences in protein metabolism observed in white muscle of subordinate fish during the interaction period disappeared. In liver, protein synthesis returned to baseline levels during recovery from social stress, but markers of protein degradation did not. Collectively, these data support the hypothesis that inhibition of muscle protein synthesis coupled with increases in muscle protein breakdown contribute to the reduced growth rates of subordinate rainbow trout.
Impact of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease on 10-year mortality after percutaneous coronary intervention and bypass surgery for complex coronary artery disease: insights from the SYNTAX Extended Survival study
Authors: Wang Rutao , Tomaniak Mariusz , Takahashi Kuniaki , Gao Chao , Kawashima Hideyuki , Hara Hironori , Ono Masafumi , van Klaveren David , van Geuns Robert-Jan , Morice Marie-Claude , Davierwala Piroze M. , Mack Michael J. , Witkowski Adam , Curzen Nick , Berti Sergio , Burzotta Francesco , James Stefan , Kappetein Arie Pieter , Head Stuart J. , Thuijs Daniel J. F. M. , Mohr Friedrich W. , Holmes David R. , Tao Ling , Onuma Yoshinobu , Serruys Patrick W.
Published: March 2021

Aims

To evaluate the impact of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) on 10-year all-cause death and the treatment effect of CABG versus PCI on 10-year all-cause death in patients with three-vessel disease (3VD) and/or left main coronary artery disease (LMCAD) and COPD.

Methods

Patients were stratified according to COPD status and compared with regard to clinical outcomes. Ten-year all-cause death was examined according to the presence of COPD and the revascularization strategy.

Results

COPD status was available for all randomized 1800 patients, of whom, 154 had COPD (8.6%) at the time of randomization. Regardless of the revascularization strategy, patients with COPD had a higher risk of 10-year all-cause death, compared with those without COPD (43.1% vs. 24.9%; hazard ratio [HR]: 2.03; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.56–2.64; p < 0.001). Among patients with COPD, CABG appeared to have a slightly lower risk of 10-year all-cause death compared with PCI (42.3% vs. 43.9%; HR: 0.96; 95% CI: 0.59–1.56, p = 0.858), whereas among those without COPD, CABG had a significantly lower risk of 10-year all-cause death (22.7% vs. 27.1%; HR: 0.81; 95% CI: 0.67–0.99, p = 0.041). There was no significant differential treatment effect of CABG versus PCI on 10-year all-cause death between patients with and without COPD (pinteraction = 0.544).

Conclusions

COPD was associated with a higher risk of 10-year all-cause death after revascularization for complex coronary artery disease. The presence of COPD did not significantly modify the beneficial effect of CABG versus PCI on 10-year all-cause death.

Trial registration: SYNTAX: ClinicalTrials.gov reference: NCT00114972. SYNTAX Extended Survival: ClinicalTrials.gov reference: NCT03417050

Graphic abstract
Molecular profiling of appendiceal serrated lesions, polyps and mucinous neoplasms: a single-centre experience
Authors: Munari Giada , Businello Gianluca , Mattiolo Paola , Pennelli Gianmaria , Sbaraglia Marta , Borga Chiara , Pucciarelli Salvatore , Spolverato Gaya , Mescoli Claudia , Galuppini Francesca , Sommariva Antonio , Bellan Elena , Lonardi Sara , Loupakis Fotios , Luchini Claudio , Dei Tos Angelo Paolo , Fassan Matteo
Published: March 2021

Purpose

Non-neuroendocrine neoplasms of the appendix are a phenotypically heterogeneous group of lesions; a comprehensive molecular characterization of these tumors is still lacking.

Methods

A total of 52 samples taken from 49 patients was evaluated: 18 sessile serrated lesions (SSL; 3 with dysplasia), 2 high-grade tubular adenomas, 1 tubulo-villous adenoma,1 hyperplastic polyp, 18 low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasms (LAMN), 3 high-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasms (HAMN) and 9 mucinous adenocarcinomas. Hotspot mutational profiling of the RNF43, SMAD4, KRAS, NRAS, BRAF and PIK3CA genes was performed. Expression of p53, MLH1, PMS2, MSH2, and MSH6 was evaluated by immunohistochemistry.

Results

KRAS was the most frequently mutated gene (53.9% of cases), followed by RNF43 (15.4%), and BRAF (13.5%). In particular: KRAS was mutated in 44.4% of adenocarcinomas, 66.7% of HAMNs, 61.1% of LAMNs, 53.3% of SSL without dysplasia and in 66.7% of SSL with dysplasia; RNF43 was mutated in 33.3% of adenocarcinomas, 66.7% of HAMNs, 11.1% of LAMNs and in 6.7% of SSL without dysplasia; BRAF was mutated in 11.1% of adenocarcinomas, 26.7% of SSL without dysplasia and in 5.6% of LAMNs. Only a case of high-grade tubular adenoma showed mismatch repair deficiency, while immunohistochemical expression of p53 was altered in 21.1% of cases.

Conclusions

The histological phenotypic similarities between appendicular mucinous lesions and serrated colon lesions do not reflect a similar genetic landscape. Mismatch repair deficiency is a rare event during appendiceal mucinous carcinogenesis.
Spatial and temporal genetic variation of Drosophila suzukii in Germany
Authors: Petermann Sarah , Otto Sabine , Eichner Gerrit , Schetelig Marc F.
Published: March 2021

Native to Southeast Asia, the spotted wing drosophila (SWD), Drosophila suzukii Matsumura, rapidly invaded America and Europe in the past 20 years. As a crop pest of soft-skinned fruits with a wide range of host plants, it threatens the fruit industry worldwide, causing enormous economic losses. To control this invasive pest species, an understanding of its population dynamics and structure is necessary. Here, we report the population genetics and development of SWD in Germany from 2017–19 using microsatellite markers over 11 different sample sites. It is the first study that examines SWD’s genetic changes over 3 years compared to multiple international SWD laboratory strains. Results show that SWD populations in Germany are highly homogenous without differences between populations or years, which indicates that populations are well adapted, migrate freely, and multiple invasions from outside Germany either did not take place or are negligible. Such high genetic variability and migration between populations could allow for a fast establishment of the pest species. This is especially problematic with regard to the ongoing spread of this invasive species and could bear a potential for developing pesticide resistance, which could increase the impact of the SWD further in the future.
Limit Theorems and Fluctuations for Point Vortices of Generalized Euler Equations
Authors: Geldhauser Carina , Romito Marco
Published: March 2021

We prove a mean field limit, a law of large numbers and a central limit theorem for a system of point vortices on the 2D torus at equilibrium with positive temperature. The point vortices are formal solutions of a class of equations generalising the Euler equations, and are also known in the literature as generalised inviscid SQG. The mean-field limit is a steady solution of the equations, the CLT limit is a stationary distribution of the equations.
An improved K-means algorithm for underwater image background segmentation
Authors: Chen Wei , He Cenyu , Ji Chunlin , Zhang Meiying , Chen Siyu
Published: March 2021

Conventional algorithms fail to obtain satisfactory background segmentation results for underwater images. In this study, an improved K-means algorithm was developed for underwater image background segmentation to address the issue of improper K value determination and minimize the impact of initial centroid position of grayscale image during the gray level quantization of the conventional K-means algorithm. A total of 100 underwater images taken by an underwater robot were sampled to test the aforementioned algorithm in respect of background segmentation validity and time cost. The K value and initial centroid position of grayscale image were optimized. The results were compared to the other three existing algorithms, including the conventional K-means algorithm, the improved Otsu algorithm, and the Canny operator edge extraction method. The experimental results showed that the improved K-means underwater background segmentation algorithm could effectively segment the background of underwater images with a low color cast, low contrast, and blurred edges. Although its cost in time was higher than that of the other three algorithms, it none the less proved more efficient than the time-consuming manual segmentation method. The algorithm proposed in this paper could potentially be used in underwater environments for underwater background segmentation.
A lower bound for the variance of generalized divisor functions in arithmetic progressions
Authors: Mastrostefano Daniele
Published: March 2021

We prove that for a large class of multiplicative functions, referred to as generalized divisor functions, it is possible to find a lower bound for the corresponding variance in arithmetic progressions. As a main corollary, we deduce such a result for any$$\alpha $$α-fold divisor function, for any complex number$$\alpha \not \in \{1\}\cup -\mathbb {N}$$α∉{1}∪-N, even when considering a sequence of parameters$$\alpha $$αclose in a proper way to 1. Our work builds on that of Harper and Soundararajan, who handled the particular case ofk-fold divisor functions$$d_k(n)$$dk(n), with$$k\in \mathbb {N}_{\ge 2}$$k∈N≥2.
Epoxidation of 1,5,9-cyclododecatriene with hydrogen peroxide under phase-transfer catalysis conditions: influence of selected parameters on the course of epoxidation
Authors: Lewandowski Grzegorz , Kujbida Marcin , Wróblewska Agnieszka
Published: March 2021

This work presents the studies on the epoxidation of 1,5,9-cyclododecatriene (CDT) with hydrogen peroxide as the oxidizing agent, under conditions of the phase transfer catalysis (PTC), and with the following catalytic system: H2WO4/H3PO4/[CH3(CH2)7]3CH3N+HSO4− (compounds were mixed at the ratio of 2:1:1). The influence of the following parameters on the course of this process was investigated: catalyst content, molar ratio of H2O2:CDT, temperature and type of solvent. The highest yield of 1,2-epoxy-5,9-cyclododecadiene (ECDD) (54.9 mol%), at the conversion of CDT reached 72.3 mol%, was obtained at the temperature of 50 °C, for the catalyst content of 0.45 mol% (in relation to the introduced CDT), for the molar ratio of H2O2:CDT 1.5:1, with toluene as the solvent and after the reaction time of 30 min. Considering the he obtained results and numerous applications of ECDD, further research should be developed to provide a more efficient and environmentally friendly way of obtaining this compound.

Graphic abstract
Assessing the fluvial system resilience of the river Bacchiglione to point sources of pollution in Northeast Italy: a novel Water Resilience Index (WRI) approach
Authors: Mirauda Domenica , Caniani Donatella , Colucci Maria Teresa , Ostoich Marco
Published: March 2021

Modelling and evaluating the resilience of environmental systems has recently raised significant interest among both practitioners and researchers. However, it has not yet been used to measure the absorption and recovery capacities of a river subject to varying levels of pollution due to natural and anthropic sources of contamination within the basin. Fast worldwide population growth and climate change are contributing to an increased degradation status in surface water bodies and to a decreased efficiency of their natural self-purification processes. Decision-makers are, therefore, more and more encouraged to implement alternative management strategies focussed on improving the system resilience to current and future perturbations. To this end, a novel Water Resilience Index (WRI), based on different quality parameters, was developed,and it is here proposed to estimate the ability of the river Bacchiglione, located in Northeast Italy, absorb continuous and unpredictable changes due to potential effects of point sources of pollution, that is,urban and industrial wastewater, and still maintain its vital functions. This new index is integrated in a mathematical model, which represents the river as an influence diagram where the nodes are the gauged stations and the arcs are the fluvial reaches among the stations, to identify the river reaches in need of resilience improvement. In addition, in order to simplify the analytical procedure and lower the costs and times of the monitoring activities, aprincipalcomponentanalysis is also used, as it is able to reduce the number of the water quality parameters to be collected from the sampling stations, distributed along the main river, and thus to calculate a minimum WRI. The good agreement between the results obtained by both the original and minimum WRI shows the effectiveness of the proposed methodology. This approach could be applied to all basins with the same issues, and not just in the Italian case study here analysed, as it might be a valid tool to plan interventions and mitigation actions, protecting the resource from pollution risks and achieving environmental quality and Sustainable Development Goals both in the water bodies and their surrounding territories. In addition, this strategy could be integrated in the existing models supporting local decision-makers and administrators, aiming at increasing the resilience of urban and rural areas to pollution phenomena and facilitating the development of effective policies to reduce the impacts of global change on water quality.