bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structure and Ontology in Nonlocal Readings of Adjectives
Authors: Morzycki Marcin
Published: May 2021

In certain uses, adjectives appear to make the semantic contribution normally associated with adverbs. These readings are often thought to be a peripheral phenomenon, restricted to one corner of the grammar and just a handful of lexical items. I’ll argue that it’s actually considerably more general than is often recognized, and that it admits two fundamentally different modes of explanation: in terms of the syntactic machinery that undergirds these structures and in terms of the ontology of the objects manipulated by its semantics. Both modes of explanation have been suggested for some of the puzzles in this domain, and I’ll argue both are necessary. With respect to adjectives includingaverageandoccasional, the key insight is that their lexical semantics is fundamentally about kinds. But to arrive at a more general theory of adverbial readings, it is also necessary to further articulate the compositional semantics. In this spirit, I’ll argue that these adjectives actually have the semantic type of quantificational determiners likeevery. If this way of thinking about adverbial readings is on the right track, it instantiates a means by which these two distinct modes of explanation—and the distinct aspects of cognition they may ultimately be associated with—both play a crucial role in bringing about the apparently aberrant behavior of this class of adjectives.
How Can Semantics Avoid the Troubles with the Analytic/Synthetic Distinction?
Authors: de Almeida Roberto G. , Antal Caitlyn
Published: May 2021

At least since Quine (From a logical point of view. Harvard University Press, Cambridge, MA, 1953) it has been suspected that a semantic theory that rests on defining features, or on what are taken to be “analytic” properties bearing on the content of lexical items, rests on a fault line. Simply put, there is no criterion for determining which features or propertiesFeatures are to be analytic and which ones are to be synthetic or contingent on experience. Deep down, our concern is what cognitive science and its several competing semantic theories have to offer in terms of solution. We analyze a few cases, which run into trouble by appealing to analyticity, and propose our own solution to this problem: a version of atomism cum inferences, which we think it is the only way out of the dead-end of analyticity. We start off by discussing several guiding assumptions regarding cognitive architecture and on what we take to be methodological imperatives for doing semantics within cognitive science—that is a semantics that is concerned with accounting for mental states. We then discuss theoretical perspectives on lexical causatives and the so-called “coercion” phenomenon or, in our preferred terminology, indeterminacy. And we advance, even if briefly, a proposal for the representation and processing of conceptual content that does away with the analytic/synthetic distinction. We argue that the only account of mental content that does away with the analytic/synthetic distinction is atomism. The version of atomism that we sketch accounts for the purported effects of analyticity with a system of inferences that are in essence synthetic and, thus, not content constitutive.
Perception, Types and Frames
Authors: Cooper Robin
Published: May 2021

We present a view of perception as the classification of objects and events in terms of types in the sense of TTR, a Type Theory with Records. We argue that such types can be used to give a formal model of concepts and cognitive processing involving concepts. This yields a view that natural language semantics is based on our cognitive perceptual ability. The paper provides an overview of some key ideas in TTR including the important notion of record type. We suggest that record types can be used to model frames in a way that relates to the Düsseldorf notion of frame as well as those of Fillmore and Barsalou.
A Home of Our Own: The National Patient Safety Foundation
Authors: Leape Lucian L.
Published: May 2021

Prior to the first Annenberg Conference, none of us who were interested in patient safety had given any thought to forming a national organization—except for Marty Hatlie, the AMA’s legal counsel. Marty was intrigued by the success of the Anesthesia Patient Safety Foundation (APSF) that Jeep Pierce and Jeff Cooper had founded. He envisioned the formation of a similar national organization as the centerpiece of the refashioning of the AMA’s stance on patient safety after its stinging legislative defeat of tort reform.
A Community of Concern: The Massachusetts Coalition for the Prevention of Medical Errors
Authors: Leape Lucian L.
Published: May 2021

One day in January 1997, John Noble, an internist from Boston City Hospital who I knew from somewhere—perhaps residency days—walked into my office and said, “We should form a state coalition for the prevention of medical errors.” His idea was to bring to the table the key players in health who tended not to talk much with one another—regulators and the regulated, academics and practitioners, etc.
When the IOM Speaks: IOM Quality of Care Committee and Report
Authors: Leape Lucian L.
Published: May 2021

On July 7, 1998, I received an invitation from the Institute of Medicine (IOM) to become a member of the Committee on Quality of Health Care in America. The Committee, chaired by Bill Richardson of the Kellogg Foundation, was an outgrowth of an IOM Roundtable on Quality of Care, chaired by Mark Chassin and Robert Galvin.
Hollywood’s R&D Complex
Authors: Gowanlock Jordan
Published: May 2021

This chapter of Animating Unpredictable Effects studies how Hollywood became a producer of software and sponsor of R&D. Using archival research of publications and conference records, it charts the computer graphics research group ACM SIGGRAPH’s origins in the military-industrial-academic complex and notes the rise of a new research complex driven by media industries, with the Hollywood blockbuster playing a key role in driving investment. This chapter also studies how the economics of film industries were transformed by R&D using SEC financial filings from studios. This investigation of the economics of R&D helps explain the economic instability of the VFX industry, which has been a key topic of discussion since the closure of Rhythm and Hues and the rise of VFX worker movements.
Animating Management
Authors: Gowanlock Jordan
Published: May 2021

This chapter studies how the management theory of digital animation studios like Pixar Animation has been influenced by the paradigms that premise their unpredictable algorithmic animations. This epistemic frame leads Pixar to represent creativity as the unpredictable product of carefully controlled conditions and parameters. This collapse of technology, animation, and management science helps to sculpt Pixar’s own corporate image as both an animation studio and a technology company. These findings nuance existing accounts of post-Fordist labor in creative industries.
Higher-spin particles at high-energy colliders
Authors: Criado Juan C. , Djouadi Abdelhak , Koivunen Niko , Raidal Martti , Veermäe Hardi
Published: May 2021

Abstract

Using an effective field theory approach for higher-spin fields, we derive the interactions of colour singlet and electrically neutral particles with a spin higher than unity, concentrating on the spin-3/2, spin-2, spin-5/2 and spin-3 cases. We compute the decay rates and production cross sections in the main channels for spin-3/2 and spin-2 states at both electron-positron and hadron colliders, and identify the most promising novel experimental signatures for discovering such particles at the LHC. The discussion is qualitatively extended to the spin-5/2 and spin-3 cases. Higher-spin particles exhibit a rich phenomenology and have signatures that often resemble the ones of supersymmetric and extra-dimensional theories. To enable further studies of higher-spin particles at collider and beyond, we collect the relevant Feynman rules and other technical details.
Light-cone sum rules for proton decay
Authors: Haisch Ulrich , Hala Amando
Published: May 2021

Abstract

We estimate the form factors that parametrise the hadronic matrix elements of proton-to-pion transitions with the help of light-cone sum rules. These form factors are relevant for semi-leptonic proton decay channels induced by baryon-number violating dimension-six operators, as typically studied in the context of grand unified theories. We calculate the form factors in a kinematical regime where the momentum transfer from the proton to the pion is space-like and extrapolate our final results to the regime that is relevant for proton decay. In this way, we obtain estimates for the form factors that show agreement with the state-of-the-art calculations in lattice QCD, if systematic uncertainties are taken into account. Our work is a first step towards calculating more involved proton decay channels where lattice QCD results are not available at present.
3D printed prototyping tools for flexible sheet metal drawing
Authors: Frohn-Sörensen Peter , Geueke Michael , Tuli Tadele Belay , Kuhnhen Christopher , Manns Martin , Engel Bernd
Published: May 2021

Due to the change from mass production to mass personalized production and the resulting intrinsic product flexibility, the automotive industry, among others, is looking for cost-efficient and resource-saving production methods to combining global just-in-time production. In addition to geometric manufacturing flexibility, additive manufacturing offers a resource-saving application for rapid prototyping and small series in predevelopment. In this study, the FDM process is utilized to manufacture the tooling to draw a small series of sheet metal parts in combination with the rubber pad forming process. Therefore, a variety of common AM polymer materials (PETG, PLA, and ABS) is compared in compression tests, from which PLA is selected to be applied as sheet metal forming die. For the rubber pad forming process, relevant processing parameters, i.e., press force and rubber cushion hardness, are studied with respect to forming depth. The product batch is examined by optical evaluation using a metrological system. The scans of the tool and sheet metal parts confirm the mechanical integrity of the additively manufactured die from polymer and thus the suitability of this approach for small series in sheet metal drawing processes, e.g., for automotive applications.
Microfluidic ion stripper for removal of trifluoroacetic acid from mobile phases used in HILIC-MS of intact proteins
Authors: Wouters Sam , Eeltink Sebastiaan , Haselberg Rob , Somsen Govert W. , Gargano Andrea F. G.
Published: May 2021

Trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) is commonly used as mobile phase additive to improve retention and peak shape characteristics in hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography (HILIC) of intact proteins. However, when using electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) detection, TFA may cause ionization suppression and adduct formation, leading to reduced analyte sensitivity. To address this, we describe a membrane-based microfluidic chip with multiple parallel channels for the selective post-column removal of TFA anions from HILIC. An anion-exchange membrane was used to physically separate the column effluent from a stripper flow solution comprising acetonitrile, formic acid, and propionic acid. The exchange of ions allowed the post-column removal of TFA used during HILIC separation of model proteins. The multichannel design of the device allows the use of flow rates of 0.2 mL/min without the need for a flow splitter, using mobile phases containing 0.1% TFA (13 mM). Separation selectivity and efficiency were maintained (with minor band broadening effects) while increasing the signal intensity and peak areas by improving ionization and reducing TFA adduct formation.

Graphical abstract
Correction to: Estimation of a preliminary therapeutic reference range for children and adolescents with tic disorders treated with tiapride
Authors: Fekete Stefanie , Egberts K. , Preissler T. , Wewetzer C. , Mehler-Wex C. , Romanos M. , Gerlach M.
Published: May 2021

A correction to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00228-021-03159-0
An analytics-based heuristic decomposition of a bilevel multiple-follower cutting stock problem
Authors: Fajemisin Adejuyigbe O. , Climent Laura , Prestwich Steven D.
Published: May 2021

This paper presents a new class of multiple-follower bilevel problems and a heuristic approach to solving them. In this new class of problems, the followers may be nonlinear, do not share constraints or variables, and are at most weakly constrained. This allows the leader variables to be partitioned among the followers. We show that current approaches for solving multiple-follower problems are unsuitable for our new class of problems and instead we propose a novel analytics-based heuristic decomposition approach. This approach uses Monte Carlo simulation andk-medoids clustering to reduce the bilevel problem to a single level, which can then be solved using integer programming techniques. The examples presented show that our approach produces better solutions and scales up better than the other approaches in the literature. Furthermore, for large problems, we combine our approach with the use of self-organising maps in place ofk-medoids clustering, which significantly reduces the clustering times. Finally, we apply our approach to a real-life cutting stock problem. Here a forest harvesting problem is reformulated as a multiple-follower bilevel problem and solved using our approach.
Diffusion-weighted imaging diagnostic algorithm in patients with suspected pleural malignancy
Authors: Jiang Wenrui , Han Zhiping , Tang Xing , Yin Hong , Zhang Jian
Published: May 2021

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to analyze the diagnostic performance and clinical application of diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) in patients with suspected pleural malignancy (PM).

Methods

A retrospective review of patients with suspected PM was performed from March 2014 to August 2018 (NCT 02320617). All patients underwent chest DWI and computed tomography (CT) with cytological or histopathological findings as reference standards. The diagnostic performance of DWI and CT was analyzed and compared. A DWI diagnostic algorithm with three sequential steps was established.

Results

Seventy patients (61.6 ± 13.6 years; 47 males and 23 females) were included. The sensitivity of DWI (94.2%, 49/52) for the diagnosis of PM was significantly higher compared with CT (67.3%, 35/52), with similar specificity (72.2% vs. 72.2%, respectively). The apparent diffusion coefficient of malignant lesions (1.15 ± 0.32 × 10−3 mm2/s) was lower compared with benign lesions (1.46 ± 0.68 × 10−3 mm2/s), but the cutoff value was difficult to define for overlap between groups. Approximately 62.5% (5/8) of invasive procedures were avoided when using the DWI diagnostic algorithm in patients with suspected PM without N3 lymph node or extra-thoracic metastasis.

Conclusion

Including DWI into the diagnostic algorithm of suspected PM can effectively identify malignancy and avoid unnecessary invasive procedures, which may have some potential in clinical application.

Key Points

• Diffusion-weighted imaging can identify pleural malignancy much more efficiently than CT.

• A diffusion-weighted imaging diagnostic algorithm helped to avoid unnecessary invasive procedures in patients without N3 lymph node or extra-thoracic lesions.

• A hyperintense signal on DWI at a high b value (800 s/mm2) but not at a low b value (50 s/mm2) was a reliable signature of PM.
N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide and coronary collateral formation in patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Park Bo Eun , Lee Jang Hoon , Kim Hyeon Jeong , Kim Hong Nyun , Jang Se Yong , Bae Myung Hwan , Yang Dong Heon , Park Hun Sik , Cho Yongkeun , Chae Shung Chull
Published: May 2021

There is insufficient information on the relationship between the N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) level and collateral circulation (CC) formation after primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction. We analyzed 857 patients who underwent primary PCI. The serum NT-proBNP levels were measured on the day of admission, and the CC was scored according to Rentrop’s classification. Log-transformed NT-proBNP levels were significantly higher in patients with good CC compared to those with poor CC (6.13 ± 2.01 pg/mL versus 5.48 ± 1.97 pg/mL, p < 0.001). The optimum cutoff value of log NT-proBNP for predicting CC was 6.04 pg/mL. Log NT-proBNP ≥ 6.04 pg/mL (odds ratio 2.23; 95% confidence interval 1.51–3.30; p < 0.001) was an independent predictor of good CC. CC development was higher in patients with a pre-TIMI flow of 0 or 1 than those with a pre-TIMI flow of 2 or 3 (22.6% versus 8.8%, p = 0.001). The incidence of left ventricular (LV) dysfunction (< 50%) was greater in patients with a pre-TIMI flow of 0 or 1 (49.8% versus 35.5%, p < 0.001). The release of NT-proBNP was greater in patients with LV dysfunction (34.3% versus 15.6%, p < 0.001). The incidence of good CC was greater in patients with log NT-proBNP levels ≥ 6.04 pg/ml (16.8% versus 26.2%, p = 0.003). The association between NT-proBNP and collateral formation was not influenced by pre-TIMI flow and LV function. NT-proBNP appears to reflect the degree of collateral formation in the early phase of STEMI and might have a new role as a useful surrogate biomarker for collateral formation in patients undergoing primary PCI.
Is the 3D exoscope better than the surgical microscope in parotid surgery: a prospective, randomized single-center study
Authors: Bartkowiak Ewelina , Łuczewski Łukasz , Chou Jadzia Tin-Tsen , Wierzbicka Małgorzata
Published: May 2021

Background

High-definition, three-dimensional (3D) exoscopes are being used to perform a growing number of head and neck surgeries. However, the use of the 3D exoscope in parotid gland surgery has not been previously described. Our initial experience with the VITOM 3D exoscope in the surgical treatment of parotid gland tumors is detailed here.

Methods

We made a prospective study of patients with benign parotid gland tumors indicated for surgical resection. Between January and December 2018, patients were randomly assigned to undergo surgery assisted with the VITOM 3D system (n = 31) or an operating microscope (n = 40). Visualization quality (greater auricular nerve, digastric muscle, tragal pointer), operating time, conversion rates, and surgical outcomes were compared.

Results

A total of 71 patients underwent superficial (n = 18) or total parotidectomy (n = 53). No exoscope-related complications were observed. Five patients undergoing exoscope-guided deep lobe surgery required intraoperative conversion to a microscope. No differences were observed in the subjective quality of intraoperative visualization of key anatomical structures. However, a significantly higher percentage of patients in the exoscope group developed transient facial nerve paralysis (n = 9; 29% vs. n = 4, 10%).

Conclusions

These findings suggest that the VITOM 3D is a valid visualization tool for parotid gland surgery, comparable to the operating microscope but with higher resolution 3D visualization, an increased degree of freedom of movement, and better ergonomics. However, the high rate of transient nerve palsy, possibly related to decreased depth perception and the brief learning curve, merits further investigation.
Effects of the short-stitch technique for midline abdominal closure: short-term results from the randomised-controlled ESTOIH trial
Authors: Albertsmeier M. , Hofmann A. , Baumann P. , Riedl S. , Reisensohn C. , Kewer J. L. , Hoelderle J. , Shamiyeh A. , Klugsberger B. , Maier T. D. , Schumacher G. , Köckerling F. , Pession U. , Weniger M. , Fortelny R. H.
Published: May 2021

Purpose

The short-stitch technique for midline laparotomy closure has been shown to reduce hernia rates, but long stitches remain the standard of care and the effect of the short-stitch technique on short-term results is not well known. The aim of this study was to compare the two techniques, using an ultra-long-term absorbable elastic suture material.

Methods

Following elective midline laparotomy, 425 patients in 9 centres were randomised to receive wound closure using the short-stitch (USP 2-0 single thread, n = 215) or long-stitch (USP 1 double loop, n = 210) technique with a poly-4-hydroxybutyrate-based suture material (Monomax®). Here, we report short-term surgical outcomes.

Results

At 30 (+10) days postoperatively, 3 (1.40%) of 215 patients in the short-stitch group and 10 (4.76%) of 210 patients in the long-stitch group had developed burst abdomen [OR 0.2830 (0.0768–1.0433), p = 0.0513]. Ruptured suture, seroma and hematoma and other wound healing disorders occurred in small numbers without differences between groups. In a planned Cox proportional hazard model for burst abdomen, the short-stitch group had a significantly lower risk [HR 0.1783 (0.0379–0.6617), p = 0.0115].

Conclusions

Although this trial revealed no significant difference in short-term results between the short-stitch and long-stitch techniques for closure of midline laparotomy, a trend towards a lower rate of burst abdomen in the short-stitch group suggests a possible advantage of the short-stitch technique.

Trial registry

NCT01965249, registered October 18, 2013.
Spatial and temporal dynamics of suspended particles and E. coli in a complex surface-water and karst groundwater system as a basis for an adapted water protection scheme, northern Vietnam
Authors: Richter Dominik , Goeppert Nadine , Zindler Björn , Goldscheider Nico
Published: May 2021

Karst aquifers in subtropical regions are characterized by high variability of water availability and quality due to changes associated with rainy and dry seasons. An additional challenge for water management is the combination of surface-water and karst groundwater systems since high spatiotemporal dynamics cause high variability of water quality. In these cases, adapted protection strategies are required. In this study, a protection approach for the catchment of a river-water diversion point in a rural area in northern Vietnam is developed. The variability of water quality was evaluated by rainy and dry season synoptic surveys of suspended particles and microbial contamination at 49 sites and time series at three sets of paired sites under constant hydraulic conditions. The anthropogenic land-use activities in the catchment were mapped to identify potential contamination sources and to highlight the challenging combination of surface-water and karst groundwater management. The analyzed data indicate differences in water quality between the dry and rainy seasons and a higher influence on water quality from land use than from hydrologic conditions. Furthermore, the results suggest a high risk of contamination resulting from residential areas, agriculture, and livestock farming, and reveal the necessity of implementation of appropriate measures such as restricted farming and the hook-up of buildings to municipal sewage disposal. Finally, the data show that water quality can be improved by adjusting water withdrawals by the time of day. The applied methods can be transferred to other surface-water and karst groundwater systems in similar subtropical environments.
Decision-making, cognitive functions, impulsivity, and media multitasking expectancies in high versus low media multitaskers
Authors: Müller Silke M. , Schiebener Johannes , Brand Matthias , Liebherr Magnus
Published: May 2021

In several studies, individuals who reported to frequently multitask with different media displayed reduced cognitive performance, for example in fluid intelligence and executive functioning. These cognitive functions are relevant for making advantageous decisions under both objective risk (requiring reflection and strategical planning) and ambiguous risk (requiring learning from feedback). Thus, compared to low media multitaskers (LMMs), high media multitaskers (HMMs) may perform worse in both types of decision situations. The current study investigated HMMs and LMMs in a laboratory setting with the Game of Dice Task (GDT; objective risk), the Iowa Gambling Task (IGT; ambiguous risk), various tests quantifying cognitive functions (logical reasoning, working memory, information processing, general executive functions), and self-report measures of impulsivity, media multitasking expectancies, and problematic Internet use. From 182 participants, 25 HMMs and 19 LMMs were identified using the Media Multitasking Index. Results show that HMMs compared to LMMs performed weaker on the IGT but not on the GDT. Furthermore, HMMs had slightly decreased performance in tests of logical reasoning and working memory capacity. HMMs tended to increased information processing speed but this difference was not significant. Furthermore, HMMs have more positive expectancies regarding media multitasking and reported higher tendencies toward problematic Internet use. HMMs and LMMs did not differ significantly with respect to impulsivity and executive functions. The results give a first hint that HMMs may have difficulties in decision-making under ambiguous but not under objective risk. HMMs may be more prone to errors in tasks that require feedback processing. However, HMMs appear not to be impaired in aspects of long-term strategic decision-making.
An empirically sound telemedicine taxonomy – applying the CAFE methodology
Authors: Harst Lorenz , Otto Lena , Timpel Patrick , Richter Peggy , Lantzsch Hendrikje , Wollschlaeger Bastian , Winkler Katja , Schlieter Hannes
Published: May 2021

Aim

Because the field of information systems (IS) research is vast and diverse, structuring it is a necessary precondition for any further analysis of artefacts. To structure research fields, taxonomies are a useful tool. Approaches aiming to develop sound taxonomies exist, but they do not focus on empirical development. We aimed to close this gap by providing the CAFE methodology, which is based on quantitative content analysis.

Subject and methods

Existing taxonomies are used to build a coding scheme, which is then validated on an IS project database. After describing the methodology, it is applied to develop a telemedicine taxonomy.

Results

The CAFE methodology consists of four steps, including applicable methods. It helps in producing quantitative data for statistical analysis to empirically ground any newly developed taxonomy. By applying the methodology, a taxonomy for telemedicine is presented, including, e.g. application types, settings or the technology involved in telemedicine initiatives.

Conclusion

Taxonomies can serve in identifying both components and outcomes to analyse. As such, our empirically sound methodology for deriving those is a contribution not only to evaluation research but also to the development of future successful telemedicine or other digital applications.
A discrete-cracking numerical model for the in-plane behavior of FRCM strengthened masonry panels
Authors: Murgo Francesco Saverio , Ferretti Francesca , Mazzotti Claudio
Published: May 2021

In this paper, the structural behavior of masonry panels strengthened with a system made up of composite fiber grids embedded in a cementitious matrix (FRCM) is presented. The non-linear behavior of the unreinforced and reinforced panels is numerically simulated by means of a simplified micro-modelling approach. This approach concentrates all the non-linearities and failures in the joints and in potential crack surfaces within the bricks, placed vertically in the middle of each brick. The FRCM strengthening system is discretized by a continuous bi-directional fiber grid constituted by trusses embedded into a cementitious matrix. A calibrated bond-slip relationship is applied between the fibers and the mortar matrix assuming an idealized bilinear law. The typical experimental load–displacement curve for a FRCM strengthened panel shows three principal phases that correspond to different failure mechanisms: masonry cracking, mortar matrix cracking and ultimate failure of the panel. The non-linear numerical analyses show a good agreement with experimental results and the modeling approach is found to be adequate to reproduce the described experimental behavior. The results of a parametric study on both the material and the geometrical properties of the FRCM system are also presented.
Fast and quantitative compositional analysis of hybrid cellulose-based regenerated fibers using thermogravimetric analysis and chemometrics
Authors: Guizani Chamseddine , Trogen Mikaela , Zahra Hilda , Pitkänen Leena , Moriam Kaniz , Rissanen Marja , Mäkelä Mikko , Sixta Herbert , Hummel Michael
Published: May 2021

Cellulose can be dissolved with another biopolymer in a protic ionic liquid and spun into a bicomponent hybrid cellulose fiber using the Ioncell® technology. Inside the hybrid fibers, the biopolymers are mixed at the nanoscale, and the second biopolymer provides the produced hybrid fiber new functional properties that can be fine-tuned by controlling its share in the fiber. In the present work, we present a fast and quantitative thermoanalytical method for the compositional analysis of man-made hybrid cellulose fibers by using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) in combination with chemometrics. First, we incorporated 0–46 wt.% of lignin or chitosan in the hybrid fibers. Then, we analyzed their thermal decomposition behavior in a TGA device following a simple, one-hour thermal treatment protocol. With an analogy to spectroscopy, we show that the derivative thermogram can be used as a predictor in a multivariate regression model for determining the share of lignin or chitosan in the cellulose hybrid fibers. The method generated cross validation errors in the range 1.5–2.1 wt.% for lignin and chitosan. In addition, we discuss how the multivariate regression outperforms more common modeling methods such as those based on thermogram deconvolution or on linear superposition of reference thermograms. Moreover, we highlight the versatility of this thermoanalytical method—which could be applied to a wide range of composite materials, provided that their components can be thermally resolved—and illustrate it with an additional example on the measurement of polyester content in cellulose and polyester fiber blends. The method could predict the polyester content in the cellulose-polyester fiber blends with a cross validation error of 1.94 wt.% in the range of 0–100 wt.%. Finally, we give a list of recommendations on good experimental and modeling practices for the readers who want to extend the application of this thermoanalytical method to other composite materials.
Focus variation technology as a tool for tissue surface characterization
Authors: Reitbauer Jürgen , Harrer Franz , Eckhart Rene , Bauer Wolfgang
Published: May 2021

The surface of tissue paper is relatively complex compared to other paper grades and consists of several overlapping structures like protruding fibres, crepe and fabric-based patterns at different spatial frequencies. The knowledge of tissue surface characteristics is crucial when it comes to improvement with respect to surface softness and the perceptual handfeel of tissue products. In this work we used the optical based, non-contact measurement principle of focus variation for surface characterization of dry-creped, textured and through air dried (TAD) tissue. Based on the three tissue grades, a procedure which includes the characterization of the whole tissue surface throughout different scales within one setup, was developed. Surprisingly, focus variation was rarely used in tissue-related research, as it provides robust and reliable 3D surface information which can be used for further areal surface analysis. Special attention was given to the preparation and discussion of the raw data up to the final analysis including several spatial filtering steps. Enhanced surface parameters like the developed interfacial area ratio (Sdr) and the power spectral density (PSD) were used to describe the surface adequately. The surface roughness of the three tissue grades was compared, with the textured tissue showing the highest roughness in Sdr and PSD analysis. Although both methods are based on different principles, a high correlation in terms of evaluated roughness is evident. Regular structures like crepe and patterns are obtainable as peaks at the respective frequency with a certain intensity in the PSD evaluation. Apart from topography in terms of structures and roughness, the wide field of view of the focus variation measurement also allows assessment of effects related to flocculation and sheet formation. The developed procedure could also be appropriate for other fibre based materials and/or fabrics, which are similar to tissue with respect to optical properties such as for example nonwovens.

Graphic abstract
Comparison of clinical features between immune-related sclerosing cholangitis and hepatitis
Authors: Takinami Masaki , Ono Akira , Kawabata Takanori , Mamesaya Nobuaki , Kobayashi Haruki , Omori Shota , Wakuda Kazushige , Kenmotsu Hirotsugu , Naito Tateaki , Murakami Haruyasu , Endo Masahiro , Kiyohara Yoshio , Yasui Hirofumi , Niwakawa Masashi , Takahashi Toshiaki
Published: May 2021

Background Immune-related hepatotoxicity is often regarded as immune-related hepatitis (irHepatitis) despite including immune-related sclerosing cholangitis (irSC). This study examined the clinical differences between irSC and irHepatitis. Methods A single-center retrospective study of 530 consecutive patients who received immunotherapy between August 2014 and April 2020 was performed. IrSC and irHepatitis were respectively defined as the radiological presence and absence of bile duct dilation and wall thickness. Results Forty-one patients (7.7%) developed immune-related hepatotoxicity. A CT scan was performed on 12 patients, including 11 of 12 with ≥ grade 3 aminotransferase elevations. IrSC and irHepatitis were diagnosed in 4 (0.8%) and 8 (1.5%) patients, respectively. All the irSC patients had been treated with anti-PD-1. IrHepatitis was more common among patients receiving anti-CTLA-4 than among those receiving anti-PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors (14%, 7/50 vs. 0.2%, 1/480, P < 0.001). A ≥ grade 2 alkaline phosphatase (ALP) elevation resulting in a cholestatic pattern was seen in all 4 irSC patients. Among the irSC patients, 3 (3/4, 75%) developed ≥ grade 3 aminotransferases elevation. The median duration from the start of immunotherapy until ≥ grade 2 liver enzymes elevation was 257 and 55.5 days in irSC and irHepatitis patients. The median times for progression from grade 2 to 3 liver enzyme elevation were 17.5 and 0 days, respectively. Conclusions IrSC and irHepatitis have different characteristics in the class of immune checkpoint inhibitor and onset pattern. Radiological examination for the diagnosis of irSC should be considered for patients with ≥ grade 2 ALP elevation resulting in a cholestatic pattern. (Registration number J2020-36, Date of registration June 3, 2020)
Modelling Stakeholder Dynamics for Supporting Group Decision and Negotiation: Theory to Practice
Authors: Eden Colin , Ackermann Fran
Published: May 2021

Group Decision and Negotiation methods can help identify optimal, or efficient, solutions to complex problems and so aid decision-makers. However, recommendations depend for their success, in part, on their political feasibility within, usually, complex organisational settings. A part of the complexity of effective implementation derives from understanding the responses of stakeholders to the proposed decisions. The responses of stakeholders can be complex because stakeholders respond not just to the decision but also to the responses of other stakeholders. When the recommendations are very important, and when the possible stakeholder responses are likely to be complex, then the use of some form of modelling ofstakeholder dynamicsis likely to be helpful. This paper proposes such a modelling process designed to aid the thinking of a decision-making team as they seek to ensure their decision is politically feasible. The modelling process is designed to facilitate effective negotiation in groups about the potential impact of stakeholder responses. The modelling process is illustrated through a real case.
Up-regulation of DNA2 results in cell proliferation and migration in endometriosis
Authors: Wang Xinyan , Zeng Wenjie , Xu Sheng , Nie Jingya , Huang Lu , Lai Yucheng , Yu Yan
Published: May 2021

Accumulating evidence has suggests that women with advanced endometriosis exhibit alterations in the expression of genes in the endometrium compared to healthy controls. Furthermore, replication stress is a characteristic feature of cancer cells, which results from sustained proliferative signaling induced by either the activation of oncogenes or the loss of tumor suppressors. In the present study, we propose that DNA replication ATP-dependent helicase/nuclease 2 (DNA2) might be upregulated in endometriosis. Immunohistochemical staining results confirmed the hypothesis that DNA2 is overexpressed in the eutopic/ectopic endometrium compared to that in a control endometrium from a healthy donor. Subsequently, ectopic endometrium-derived endometrial mesenchymal stem cells (EMSCs) showed the highest level of DNA2 and checkpoint kinase 1 (CHK1), as well as the strongest proliferation and migration capabilities, followed by eutopic endometrium-derived EMSCs, and then control EMSCs. To further analyze the function of DNA2, we knocked-down DNA2 expression in KLE cells. As expected, proliferation and migration declined when cells were transfected with DNA2 small interfering RNA. Taken together, our study demonstrated the overexpression of DNA2 in human endometriosis, which might be responsible for the upregulated cell proliferation and migration. This study provides insights into the mechanisms underlying human endometriosis.
Interpretive structural modelling of inter-agency collaboration risk in public safety networks
Authors: Sienkiewicz-Małyjurek Katarzyna
Published: May 2021

Inter-agency collaboration is a well-established, yet very difficult process in public governance. Despite the fact that it is often unsuccessful, collaboration risk research is still undeveloped and the impact of this risk on the effectiveness of joint activities is still underestimated. This issue is of particular significance in public safety networks, where inter-agency collaboration processes are conducted under the conditions of the complexity and uncertainty. For this reason, the article is intended to: (1) identify factors of collaboration risk in public safety networks, (2) determine the impact of individual risk factors on inter-agency collaboration outcomes, (3) identify the relationship between risk factors of inter-agency collaboration in public safety networks, and (4) analyse the growth of this risk in public safety networks. These purposes were achieved using the Systematic Literature Review based on PRISMA Group methodology and Interpretive Structural Modelling together with MICMAC analysis. The applied research approach also has some limitations resulting from the number of experts. However, the results obtained allow us to better understand issues of inter-agency collaboration risk in public safety networks. They identify key collaboration risk factors, such as inappropriate collaboration rules and inadequate allocation of tasks and resources. In consequence, they indicate risk symptoms that are worth keeping track of in order to prevent collaboration ineffectiveness.
BAC transgenic mice to study the expression of P2X2 and P2Y1 receptors
Authors: Grohmann Marcus , Schumacher Michaela , Günther Janka , Singheiser Stefan M. , Nußbaum Tanja , Wildner Florian , Gerevich Zoltan , Jabs Ronald , Hirnet Daniela , Lohr Christian , Illes Peter , Schmalzing Günther , Franke Heike , Hausmann Ralf
Published: May 2021

Extracellular purines are important signaling molecules involved in numerous physiological and pathological processes via the activation of P2 receptors. Information about the spatial and temporal P2 receptor (P2R) expression and its regulation remains crucial for the understanding of the role of P2Rs in health and disease. To identify cells carrying P2X2Rs in situ, we have generated BAC transgenic mice that express the P2X2R subunits as fluorescent fusion protein (P2X2-TagRFP). In addition, we generated a BAC P2Y1R TagRFP reporter mouse expressing a TagRFP reporter for the P2RY1 gene expression. We demonstrate expression of the P2X2R in a subset of DRG neurons, the brain stem, the hippocampus, as well as on Purkinje neurons of the cerebellum. However, the weak fluorescence intensity in our P2X2R-TagRFP mouse precluded tracking of living cells. Our P2Y1R reporter mice confirmed the widespread expression of the P2RY1 gene in the CNS and indicate for the first time P2RY1 gene expression in mouse Purkinje cells, which so far has only been described in rats and humans. Our P2R transgenic models have advanced the understanding of purinergic transmission, but BAC transgenic models appeared not always to be straightforward and permanent reliable. We noticed a loss of fluorescence intensity, which depended on the number of progeny generations. These problems are discussed and may help to provide more successful animal models, even if in future more versatile and adaptable nuclease-mediated genome-editing techniques will be the methods of choice.
Mechanism of insulin resistance in obesity: a role of ATP
Authors: Ye Jianping
Published: May 2021

Obesity increases the risk of type 2 diabetes through the induction of insulin resistance. The mechanism of insulin resistance has been extensively investigated for more than 60 years, but the essential pathogenic signal remains missing. Existing hypotheses include inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, hyperinsulinemia, hyperglucagonemia, glucotoxicity, and lipotoxicity. Drug discoveries based on these hypotheses are unsuccessful in the development of new medicines. In this review, multidisciplinary literature is integrated to evaluate ATP as a primary signal for insulin resistance. The ATP production is elevated in insulin-sensitive cells under obese conditions independent of energy demand, which we have named “mitochondrial overheating.” Overheating occurs because of substrate oversupply to mitochondria, leading to extra ATP production. The ATP overproduction contributes to the systemic insulin resistance through several mechanisms, such as inhibition of AMPK, induction of mTOR, hyperinsulinemia, hyperglucagonemia, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Insulin resistance represents a feedback regulation of energy oversupply in cells to control mitochondrial overloading by substrates. Insulin resistance cuts down the substrate uptake to attenuate mitochondrial overloading. The downregulation of the mitochondrial overloading by medicines, bypass surgeries, calorie restriction, and physical exercise leads to insulin sensitization in patients. Therefore, ATP may represent the primary signal of insulin resistance in the cellular protective response to the substrate oversupply. The prevention of ATP overproduction represents a key strategy for insulin sensitization.
The role of FDG PET/CT or PET/MRI in assessing response to neoadjuvant therapy for patients with borderline or resectable pancreatic cancer: a systematic literature review
Authors: Evangelista Laura , Zucchetta Pietro , Moletta Lucia , Serafini Simone , Cassarino Gianluca , Pegoraro Nicola , Bergamo Francesca , Sperti Cosimo , Cecchin Diego
Published: May 2021

The aim of the present systematic review is to examine the role of fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET) associated with computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in assessing response to preoperative chemotherapy or chemoradiotherapy (CRT) for patients with borderline and resectable pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Three researchers ran a database query in PubMed, Web of Science and EMBASE. The total number of patients considered was 488. The most often used parameters of response to therapy were the reductions in the maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) or the peak standardized uptake lean mass (SULpeak). Patients whose SUVs were higher at the baseline (before CRT) were associated with a better response to therapy and a better overall survival. SUVs remaining high after neoadjuvant therapy correlated with a poor prognosis. Available data indicate that FDG PET/CT or PET/MRI can be useful for predicting and assessing response to CRT in patients with resectable or borderline PDAC.
The analysis of the operational process of a complex fire alarm system used in transport facilities
Authors: Paś Jacek , Klimczak Tomasz , Rosiński Adam , Stawowy Marek
Published: May 2021

A fire alarm system (FAS) is a system comprising signalling-alarm devices, which automatically detect and transmit information about fire, but also receivers of fire alarms and receivers for damage signals. Fire alarm systems function in different environmental conditions. During operation they should be in state of fitness. This is determined by the reliability of the assembled units and rational management of the operation process. Therefore a reliability and operational analysis of fire alarm systems as a whole is essential. This article presents an authorial model and an operational and reliability analysis of FAS, which is exploited in a transport building. It also demonstrates relationships occurring in the analysed system, where to an addressable fire alarm central unit with detection loops and control-monitoring loops alarm device lines (with monitored relay outputs for actuation of alarm-signalling devices) were connected. Research and analysis of results for representative FAS, which were exploited in similar environmental conditions, were conducted in order to determine operational and reliability parameters of the investigated system. FAS computer simulation was run during the time t = 1 year of safety system operation. This led to the calculation of the probability value of the analysed FAS staying in the examined operational states.
Extreme secondary sexual dimorphism in the genus Florarctus (Heterotardigrada: Halechiniscidae)
Authors: Gąsiorek Piotr , Kristensen David Møbjerg , Kristensen Reinhardt Møbjerg
Published: May 2021

Secondary sexual dimorphism in florarctin tardigrades is a well-known phenomenon. Males are usually smaller than females, and primary clavae are relatively longer in the former. A new species Florarctus bellahelenae, collected from subtidal coralline sand just behind the reef fringe of Long Island, Chesterfield Reefs (Pacific Ocean), exhibits extreme secondary dimorphism. Males have developed primary clavae that are much thicker and three times longer than those present in females. Furthermore, the male primary clavae have an accordion-like outer structure, whereas primary clavae are smooth in females. Other species of Florarctus Delamare-Deboutteville & Renaud-Mornant, 1965 inhabiting the Pacific Ocean were investigated. Males are typically smaller than females, but males of Florarctus heimi Delamare-Deboutteville & Renaud-Mornant, 1965 and females of Florarctus cervinus Renaud-Mornant, 1987 have never been recorded. The Renaud-Mornant collection was re-examined, and type series were analysed. Florarctus heimi and F. cervinus were always found together in the coralline sand of Heron Island (Great Barrier Reef). The animals were kept alive and surveyed in the laboratory of the Queensland Museum. All studied individuals of the larger F. heimi (up to ca. 400 μm) were females, and all adults of the smaller F. cervinus (about 170 μm) were males. Males of F. cervinus were observed mating with females of F. heimi. Following those morphological and behavioural lines of evidence, we propose that F. cervinus is a junior synonym of F. heimi. Based on the discovery of dimorphism in F. bellahelenae sp. nov. and the strong sex-related morphological disparities in F. heimi, we suggest that extreme secondary dimorphism may be present in other florarctin arthrotardigrades.