bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distribution of urinary N‐acetyl‐beta‐D‐glucosaminidase and the establishment of reference intervals in healthy adults
Authors: Liu Qian , Zong Ruyuan , Li Huan , Yin Xiaoxiao , Fu Mei , Yao Li , Sun Jin , Yang Fumeng
Published: March 2021

Background

Urinary N‐acetyl‐beta‐D‐glucosaminidase (NAG) plays an important role in the early diagnosis and progression of diseases related to renal tubular injury. We detected the urinary NAG concentration, assessed the preliminary statistics of its distribution, and established reference intervals for healthy adults in China using the rate method.

Methods

A total of 1,095 reference individuals (aged 20 to 79 years) met the requirements for inclusion in this study. Urinary NAG concentrations were detected using an AU5800 automatic biochemical analyzer with its matched reagents. The Kolmogorov‐Smirnov test was used to analyze the normality of the data. According to the guidelines of C28‐A3 and WS/T 402‐2012, the reference intervals of urinary NAG were established using the nonparametric percentile method (unilateral 95th percentile).

Results

The urinary NAG data showed a non‐normal distribution. The distribution of urinary NAG was significantly different by sex and age. Therefore, the reference intervals of urinary NAG were established using the rate method: males (aged 20–59 years) <19.4 U/L (90% CI: 18.0–20.3 U/L); males (aged 60–79 years) <22.3 U/L (90% CI: 20.2–22.6 U/L); females (aged 20–59 years) <15.7 U/L (90% CI: 15.2–16.5 U/L); and females (aged 60–79 years) <21.4 U/L (90% CI: 20.3–22.3 U/L).

Conclusions

We established preliminary reference intervals of urinary NAG for healthy adults in China to provide guidance for health screening, auxiliary diagnosis, and treatment monitoring of renal tubule‐related diseases.
On 3‐polytopes with non‐Hamiltonian prisms
Authors: Ikegami Daiki , Maezawa Shun‐ichi , Zamfirescu Carol T.
Published: March 2021

Špacapan recently showed that there exist 3‐polytopes with non‐Hamiltonian prisms, disproving a conjecture of Rosenfeld and Barnette. By adapting Špacapan's approach we strengthen his result in several directions. We prove that there exists an infinite family of counterexamples to the Rosenfeld–Barnette conjecture, each member of which has maximum degree 37, is of girth 4, and contains no odd‐length face with length less than for a given odd integer . We also show that for any given 3‐polytope there is a counterexample containing as an induced subgraph. This yields an infinite family of non‐Hamiltonian 4‐polytopes in which the proportion of quartic vertices tends to 1. However, Barnette's conjecture stating that every 4‐polytope in which all vertices are quartic is Hamiltonian still stands. Finally, we prove that the Grünbaum–Walther shortness coefficient of the family of all prisms of 3‐polytopes is at most 59/60.
Response of drylands' water‐cycle to the global warming
Authors: Luo Min , Liu Yuzhi , Shao Tianbin
Published: March 2021

Drylands occupy about 41% of land surface and feed 38% of the world's population, where understanding drylands' water‐cycle is in urgent need. In this study, response of water‐cycle over the drylands to global warming from 1980 to 2015 and its mechanisms have been investigated in detail. The results show that, with the global surface air temperature (SAT) increasing at a rate of 0.03 K⋅year−1 over the drylands, an increased evaporation is found; however, the net water vapour transport over the global drylands appears an overall decreased rate of −0.24 mm⋅year−1. Due to global warming and atmospheric circulation anomalies, the evaporation increases by 1.1 mm⋅year−1, while the precipitation and runoff decrease by −2.32 and −0.8 mm⋅year−1, respectively. In addition, the precipitation conversion rate (PCR) tends to decrease during this period, while the precipitation recycling rate (PRR) shows slightly increasing trend, implying a more dependence of the precipitation on the local evaporation over the drylands. Overall, except the drylands of Africa, it indicates a weakened water‐cycle over the global drylands from 1980 to 2015. Though some findings have been revealed, there still remains some uncertainties due to the observation limitation on the water‐cycle components. Therefore, a comprehensive study including multi‐sourced data and model simulation is expected in the future.
The correlation between experimental polarized Raman spectra and their density functional theory prediction in the LCAO framework: The R3c LiNbO3 crystal as a test case
Authors: Nogueira Bernardo A. , Milani Alberto , Castiglioni Chiara , Fausto Rui
Published: March 2021

In this study, the polarized Raman spectra of the R3c LiNbO3 crystal are used as a benchmark test for density functional theory (DFT) full periodic boundary conditions linear combination of atomic orbitals (LCAO) calculation of the Raman tensors, according to the implementation in the CRYSTAL software. The theoretical approach used proved to provide excellent results regarding wavenumbers and relative intensities predictions for the transverse optical modes of both A1 and E symmetry, considerably improving over previously reported data based on the plane waves approach. Overall, the present investigation demonstrates that the LCAO approach, as implemented in the CRYSTAL software, gives excellent results regarding the calculation of Raman tensors and polarized Raman spectra. The possibility to put in correspondence the individual Raman tensors components and bands intensities in the different back‐scattering experimental configurations revealed that the computed Raman tensors are very accurate, not only considering their average values (tensors invariant in the combination suitable for the description of Raman scattering of isotropic materials) but also when the tensors individual components are considered. Based on the present results, a reassignment of the E (TO) modes of the R3c LiNbO3 crystal is proposed, in particular for the 2 E and 9 E modes, which have been a matter of discussion in the recent years.
Comparative study of sugar extraction procedures forHPLCanalysis and proposal of an ethanolic extraction method for plant‐based high‐protein ingredients
Authors: Hoehnel Andrea , Salas García Jairo , Coffey Christine , Zannini Emanuele , Arendt Elke K
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND

The increasing importance of plant‐based proteins in the food sector makes a reliable compositional analysis of plant‐based high‐protein ingredients a necessity. Specifically, the quantification of short‐chain carbohydrates is relevant for multiple areas, including food product development, food labelling and fundamental food chemistry and food technology research. Commonly used extraction procedures for subsequent high‐performance liquid chromatographic separation and quantification of short‐chain carbohydrates have been discussed controversially regarding a range of complications that can potentially lead to inaccurate sugar determination. The present study compares the sugar levels in wheat flour and wholemeal wheat flour determined with different aqueous and ethanolic extraction procedures. These procedures included measures to prevent enzyme activity and microbial growth, which represent two of the most relevant challenges in sugar extraction from food samples.

RESULTS

Differences in sugar levels (sum of sucrose/maltose, glucose and fructose) as high as 1.8% dry matter (wheat flour) were observed between the employed extraction procedures. Ethanolic extraction (80% ethanol in ultrapure water) with the use of the antimicrobial agent sodium azide but without Carrez clarification was identified as most promising for sugar determination in plant‐based high‐protein ingredients.

CONCLUSION

A screening of high‐protein ingredients derived from cereals (wheat gluten), pseudocereals (quinoa, amaranth, buckwheat) and legumes (soy, pea, lupin, lentil, carob, chickpea, faba bean) concerning their levels of sucrose, maltose, glucose and fructose confirmed the applicability of the chosen extraction procedure. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Valorization of dietary edible mushrooms waste: chemical and physical properties, nutrient digestibility, microbial protein synthesis and nitrogen balance in sheep
Authors: Moradzadeh‐Somarin Zhila , Seifdavati Jamal , Yalchi Taher , Abdi‐Benemar Hossein , Seyedsharifi Reza , Elghandour Mona MMY , Salem Abdelfattah ZM
Published: March 2021

Background

The optimal use of feed resources must be considered by most livestock farmers. The use of low‐cost agricultural by‐products and the processing of these materials is one possible solution in this respect. One such compound is edible button mushroom waste (EM), a large amount of which is produced annually in the mushroom production cycle worldwide.

Results

Bulk density 100 of EM was smaller than the other groups. These changes also applied to alfalfa for bulk density, which was higher than the replaced waste. The dry matter solubility of EM was higher than that of alfalfa hay, whereas the ash solubility rate for EM was greater compared to alfalfa. Replacing up to 210 g kg−1 alfalfa with EM did not affect the production of purine derivatives, microbial protein, nitrogen excreted in urine and feces, and retained nitrogen, although the organic matter digestibility (OMD) increased, whereas the crude protein digestibility and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) decreased (P < 0.05). Fermentation potential, gas production rate, metabolizable energy and short‐chain fatty acids were increased. On replacing up to 210 g kg−1 alfalfa with EM, the diet OMD increased, whereas the crude protein and NDF digestibility decreased (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

EM usage in the experimental diets did not affect the production of purine derivatives, microbial protein, nitrogen excreted in urine and feces, and retained nitrogen. The physical properties, chemical composition and nutritional value of EM, as well as its low cost, show that it can be used as an alternative part of the diet forage in the ruminant's diet. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Use of magnetic resonance imaging lymphangiography for preoperative planning in lymphedema surgery: A systematic review
Authors: Forte Antonio J. , Boczar Daniel , Huayllani Maria T. , Avila Francisco R. , Guliyeva Gunel , Lu Xiaona , Mash William R. , Kung Theodore A.
Published: March 2021

Background

In recent years, magnetic resonance imaging lymphangiography (MRL) has emerged as a way to predict if patients are candidates for lymphedema surgery, particularly lymphovenous anastomosis (LVA). Our goal was to conduct a systematic review of the literature on the use of MRL for preoperative planning in lymphedema surgery. We hypothesized that MRL could add valuable information to the standard preoperative evaluation of lymphedema patients.

Methods

On February 17, 2020, we conducted a systematic review of the PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane Clinical Answers, and Embase databases, without time frame or language limitations, to identify articles on the use of MRL for preoperative planning of lymphedema surgery. We excluded studies that investigated other applications of magnetic resonance imaging, such as lymphedema diagnosis and treatment evaluation. The primary outcome was the examination capacity to identify lymphatic anatomy and the secondary outcome was the presence of adverse effects.

Results

Of 372 potential articles identified with the search, nine studies fulfilled the eligibility criteria. A total of 334 lymphedema patients were enrolled in these studies. Two studies compared MRL findings with those of other standard examinations (indocyanine green lymphography [ICG‐L] or lymphoscintigraphy). No adverse effects due to MRL were reported. A study shown that MRL had higher sensitivity to detect lymphatic vessel abnormalities compared with lymphoscintigraphy and a statistically higher chance of successful LVA was observed when the results of MRL agreed with those of ICG‐L (p < .001).

Conclusions

MRL could be useful for preoperative planning in lymphedema surgery. The scientific evidence has been limited, so further studies with greater numbers of patients and cost analysis are necessary to justify the addition of MRL to current preoperative protocols.
Nonoscillation of half‐linear dynamic equations on time scales
Authors: Hasil Petr , Kisel'ák Jozef , Pospíšil Michal , Veselý Michal
Published: March 2021

The research contained in this paper belongs to the qualitative theory of dynamic equations on time scales. Via the detailed analysis of solutions of the associated Riccati equation and an advanced averaging technique, we provide the description of domain of nonoscillation of very general equations. The results are formulated and proved for half‐linear equations (i.e., equations connected to PDEs with one dimensionalp‐Laplacian) on time scales. Nevertheless, we obtain new results also for linear difference equations. Moreover, the combination of the presented results with previous ones shows that many useful equations are conditionally oscillatory. Such equations are ideal as testing and comparison equations in real‐world models which are beyond capabilities of known oscillation and nonoscillation criteria often.
A diffusive two predators–one prey model on periodically evolving domains
Authors: Cappelletti Montano Mirella , Lisena Benedetta
Published: March 2021

The paper deals with a diffusive two predators–one prey model with Holling‐type II functional response. We assume that the density of prey and predators is spatially inhomogeneous on a periodically evolving domain and is subject to homogeneous Neumann boundary conditions. We focus on the case in which all populations have periodic logistic growth, if isolated, and no competition occurs between predators. Our main purpose is to study the asymptotic properties of the solutions of this reaction–diffusion model. More specifically, suitable conditions, depending on the domain evolution function and the space dimension, are introduced leading to the extinction of one predator and the stable coexistence of the surviving predator and its prey. Their density, as time tends to infinity, tends to the periodic solution of the corresponding kinetic predator–prey model. Finally, the autonomous model on a fixed domain is treated.
High spatial resolution spiral first‐pass myocardial perfusion imaging with whole‐heart coverage at 3 T
Authors: Wang Junyu , Yang Yang , Weller Daniel S. , Zhou Ruixi , Van Houten Matthew , Sun Changyu , Epstein Frederick H. , Meyer Craig H. , Kramer Christopher M. , Salerno Michael
Published: March 2021

Purpose

To develop and evaluate a high spatial resolution (1.25 × 1.25 mm2) spiral first‐pass myocardial perfusion imaging technique with whole‐heart coverage at 3T, to better assess transmural differences in perfusion between the endocardium and epicardium, to quantify the myocardial ischemic burden, and to improve the detection of obstructive coronary artery disease.

Methods

Whole‐heart high‐resolution spiral perfusion pulse sequences and corresponding motion‐compensated reconstruction techniques for both interleaved single‐slice (SS) and simultaneous multi‐slice (SMS) acquisition with or without outer‐volume suppression (OVS) were developed. The proposed techniques were evaluated in 34 healthy volunteers and 8 patients (55 data sets). SS and SMS images were reconstructed using motion‐compensated L1‐SPIRiT and SMS‐Slice‐L1‐SPIRiT, respectively. Images were blindly graded by 2 experienced cardiologists on a 5‐point scale (5, excellent; 1, poor).

Results

High‐quality perfusion imaging was achieved for both SS and SMS acquisitions with or without OVS. The SS technique without OVS had the highest scores (4.5 [4, 5]), which were greater than scores for SS with OVS (3.5 [3.25, 3.75], P < .05), MB = 2 without OVS (3.75 [3.25, 4], P < .05), and MB = 2 with OVS (3.75 [2.75, 4], P < .05), but significantly higher than those for MB = 3 without OVS (4 [4, 4], P = .95). SMS image quality was improved using SMS‐Slice‐L1‐SPIRiT as compared to SMS‐L1‐SPIRiT (P < .05 for both reviewers).

Conclusion

We demonstrated the successful implementation of whole‐heart spiral perfusion imaging with high resolution at 3T. Good image quality was achieved, and the SS without OVS showed the best image quality. Evaluation in patients with expected ischemic heart disease is warranted.
Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Technology Proves an Effective and Efficient Technique for Identifying Critical Native Fish Habitat
Authors: Thompson Paul D. , Vasquez Emanuel A. , Gowing Ian , Edgar Tim , Neville Ann , Jones Allison
Published: March 2021

Stream drying, especially in the western United States, is becoming more common as the climate warms and precipitation patterns become less predictable; consequently, fisheries managers need to prioritize conservation efforts where water (and fish) will persist in the future. Yellow Creek in the upper Bear River watershed (Utah and Wyoming) contains one of the largest remaining populations of Northern Leatherside Chub Lepidomeda copei, an imperiled fish. Lower reaches are drying during summer months, partly due to water withdrawals, thus reducing Northern Leatherside Chub populations and relegating the remaining fish to isolated pools until the water returns. This study used an unmanned aerial vehicle to capture high-resolution and spatially explicit imagery over 19 km of Yellow Creek in a few weeks during late August when the water is the most limiting to the fish. Through imagery and subsequent GIS analysis, we identified 405 previously unknown potential refuge-pool habitats for Northern Leatherside Chub and determined their location, size, and spatial distribution, thereby helping managers prioritize stream reaches for native fish conservation and restoration. While the cost of unmanned aerial vehicle flights was estimated to be 2.5 times that of on-the-ground surveys in 2016, unmanned aerial vehicle technology continues to become more cost effective and, unlike traditional surveys, provides high-resolution and spatially referenced data.
A Review of Marking and Tagging Methods for Blue Catfish, Channel Catfish, and Flathead Catfish
Authors: Neely Ben C. , Koch Jeff D. , Kramer Nicholas W.
Published: March 2021

Catfishes (Ictaluridae) are among North America’s most important ichthyofauna for human consumption and recreation. As such, research on Blue Catfish Ictalurus furcatus, Channel Catfish I. punctatus, and Flathead Catfish Pylodictis olivaris has been abundant in historic and contemporary literature. A common technique for studying catfish involves marking or tagging fish to understand behavior, sampling efficiency, and population dynamics. Marking and tagging methods used in these studies may be divided into eight primary types, including fin clips, strap tags, anchor tags, transbody tags, injectable tags, skin alterations, origin markers, and telemetry. Each of these methods is appropriate for specific objectives and characterized by varying retention rates and data resolution (i.e., batch or individual identification) that warrant consideration when designing projects. For example, fin clips may be most appropriate as a short-term mark requiring batch identification (e.g., stocking evaluation), whereas telemetry might be most appropriate as a long-term tag requiring individual identification (e.g., habitat selection). This review summarizes marking and tagging methods used for evaluation of Blue, Channel, and Flathead catfish and synthesizes results using examples from previously conducted catfish research. Further discussion is included on information gaps, emerging trends, and guidance for scientists planning and conducting studies that require marking of catfish.
Formulating best practice recommendations for prepaid electricity meter deployment in Soweto, South Africa – Capitalising on the developed‐world's experiences
Authors: Kambule Njabulo , Yessoufou Kowiyou , Nwulu Nnamdi
Published: March 2021

This study seeks to formulate best practice indicators characterising the prepaid electricity meter market. This was undertaken by reviewing both developed and developing countries' experiences with the technology, conducting in‐depth interviews with key stakeholders, and applying the strength weaknesses opportunities threats analysis tool. The generated outcomes are used to formulate a set of best practice recommendations that can inform decisions on improving the acceptability rate of the technology in Soweto. We found that the introduction of the technology faces a number of challenges, broadly being its complete rejection by some communities. In particular, the inadequacy or absence of incentives, the absence of prepaid meter market tariffs and regulatory mechanisms are fundamental factors affecting acceptance levels and effectiveness of the technology in developing countries. The case of Soweto is unique in that it has a historical political basis that even led to some violent protests. To improve the acceptance level and increase the buy‐in of local communities in Soweto, we formulated a number of best practice recommendations including the need to factor in the programme design the historical context‐specificity of Soweto, its low‐income status, the need to put the communities at the centre of the programme and the implementation of incentive measures inspired from the developed world.
The role of western‐based scientific, Indigenous and local knowledge in wildlife management and conservation
Authors: Kadykalo Andrew N. , Cooke Steven J. , Young Nathan
Published: March 2021

Managers of wildlife are faced with decisions and issues that are increasingly complex, spanning natural and human dimensions (i.e. values, preferences, attitudes). A strong evidence base that includes multiple forms and sources of knowledge is needed to support these complex decisions. However, a growing body of literature demonstrates that environmental managers are far more likely to draw on intuition, past experience or opinion to inform important decisions rather than empirical evidence.

We set out to assess how decision‐makers and other potential knowledge users (a) perceive, evaluate and use western‐based scientific, Indigenous and local knowledge and (b) the extent to which social, political and economic considerations challenge the integration of different forms of evidence into decision‐making. In 2018, we interviewed members from natural resource management branches of Indigenous governments (n = 4) and parliamentary governments (n = 33), as well as representatives from nongovernmental stakeholder groups (n = 28) involved in wildlife management and conservation in the Canadian province of British Columbia.

Contrary to studies that suggest evidence‐based conservation and management are rare, respondents described relying heavily on multiple forms of knowledge. Results revealed that western science is used near‐unanimously, procured from internal (i.e. institutional) sources slightly more than external ones (i.e. peer‐reviewed journals, management agencies in other jurisdictions). However, we found Indigenous and local knowledge use to be much less than western scientific knowledge (approximately half as much) despite being highly valued. Perceived challenges to applying Indigenous and local knowledge include a lack of trust, hesitancy to share knowledge (particularly from Indigenous communities), difficulties in assessing reliability and difficulties discerning knowledge from advocacy.

Despite high (and relatively diverse) evidence use, more than 40% of respondents perceived a diminishing role for evidence in final decisions concerning wildlife management and conservation. They associated this with decreases in institutional resources and capacity and increases in socio‐economic and political interference.

We encourage transformative change in wildlife management enabling decision‐makers to draw upon multiple forms of knowledge. This transformative change should include direct involvement of knowledge holders, co‐assessment of knowledge and transparency in how (multiple forms of) evidence contribute to decision‐making.

A free Plain Language Summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
Power rating procedure of hybrid concentrator/flat‐plate photovoltaic bifacial modules
Authors: Martínez Juan F. , Steiner Marc , Wiesenfarth Maike , Siefer Gerald , Glunz Stefan W. , Dimroth Frank
Published: March 2021

Hybrid concentrator/flat‐plate photovoltaic (CPV/flat‐plate PV) technology combines III–V multi‐junction and flat‐plate bifacial solar cells to convert direct, diffuse and rear irradiance into electricity. For the first time, this article presents a procedure to rate the power output of such modules at standard test and standard operating conditions. The reference conditions, data filtering criteria, and translation methods are taken, and in some parts adapted, from the CPV, flat‐plate PV, and bifacial PV International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standards. The power rating is based on outdoor measurements performed on two hybrid modules (A = 1088 cm2) equipped with III–V triple‐ or four‐junction solar cells mounted on bifacial positively doped passivated emmiter rear contact (p‐PERC) c‐Si cells. The results show that the modules, named triple‐ and four‐junction EyeCon, convert the reference AM1.5g spectrum with an efficiency of 32.6% and 34.2%, respectively. This exceeds by 1.4%abs and 3%abs the highest value reported so far for a terrestrial module that harvests global irradiance. Additionally, the modules generate 11.5 and 10.9 W/m2 for every 100 W/m2 of rear irradiance to surpass an output of 350 W/m2. Finally, the influence of illumination mode, type of irradiance sensor, and filtering criteria were evaluated, and a simplified alternative with an acceptable power output underestimation of 0.5%rel is presented.
Remote Phonon Control of Quantum Dots and Other Artificial Atoms
Authors: Wigger Daniel , Gawarecki Krzysztof , Machnikowski Paweł
Published: March 2021

To exploit the full potential of chips for quantum technologies, it is worth considering all possible opportunities offered by the solid state. The aspect covered in this article is the use of phononic fields to remotely influence the optical properties of artificial atoms. The three most commonly used strain sources are discussed, that is, mechanical resonators, surface acoustic waves, and picosecond acoustic pulses. All three platforms are routinely interfaced with quantum dots and other qubits in basic research, which renders a first step toward large scale implementation in quantum applications. A central question regarding the interaction between lattice oscillations and the optically active artificial atoms deals with the characteristic time scales of the two components. The influence of this aspect on the expected optical response on the phononic driving is discussed. Besides well known semiconducting quantum dots and color centers that typically operate in the visible spectral range, the more recently discovered artificial atoms in layered van der Waals materials are discussed. Due to their flexibility and robustness, these crystals promise vast opportunities for future applications. Another important building block lies in superconducting qubits that allow to resonantly generate quantum phonon states and therefore establish the field of quantum acoustics.
Rational Design of Self‐Propelling Particles for Unified Cargo Loading and Transportation
Authors: Kunti Golak , Wu Yue , Yossifon Gilad
Published: March 2021

Recent studies on electrically powered active particles that can both self‐propel and manipulate cargo load and release, have focused on both spherically shaped Janus particles (JP) and on a parallel electrically conducting plates setup. Yet, spherically shaped JPs set a geometrical limitation on the ability to smartly design multiple dielectrophoretic traps on a single active particle. Herein, these active carriers are extended to accommodate any desired shape and selective metallic coating, using a standard photolithography method. The resulting designed positive and negative dielectrophoretic traps of controlled size, location, and intensity, performed as sophisticated active carriers with a high level of control over their mobility and cargo loading. In addition to cargo loading, the engineered particles exhibit interesting motion in an electrically insulating substrate setup, with in‐plane electric field, and, in particular, a tilt angle, and even flipping, that strongly depended on the field frequency and amplitude, hence, exhibiting a much more diverse and rich behavior than spherical JP. The engineered self‐propelling carriers are expected to open up new possibilities for unified, label‐free and selective cargo loading, transport, and delivery of complex multi‐particles.
Direct Construction of Catechol Lignin for Engineering Long‐Acting Conductive, Adhesive, and UV‐Blocking Hydrogel Bioelectronics
Authors: Qian Yong , Zhou Yijie , Lu Mingjin , Guo Xiaoshuang , Yang Dongjie , Lou Hongming , Qiu Xueqing , Guo Chuan Fei
Published: March 2021

Long‐active conductivity, adhesiveness, and environmental stability are essential in the applications of hydrogel electronics. Integrating different functional materials into one system suffers from compatibility and cost problems. Inspired by the unique o‐methoxyl structure in polyphenol lignin and its binding role in plants, catechol lignin (DAL) is constructed by one‐step demethylation, which endows the lignin with a mussel‐like bioadhesion, good reducibility, as well as a high ultraviolet absorption. The DAL is then applied to reduced graphene oxide, and the products—the oxidized DAL and the reduced graphene oxide mixture (DAL/rGO) is added into a sodium alginate/polyacrylamide (SA/PAM) double network hydrogel. Based on the Schiff base reaction between the quinone of the oxidized DAL and the amino of the skin, the DAL/rGO incorporated hydrogels could stably adhere to the skin, and sensitively respond to physiological signals. In addition, the DAL could provide the hydrogels with long‐active sunscreen property when applied to real skin. These DAL based hydrogels have potential for on‐skin sensing and outdoor sport equipment.
The analytic leading color contribution to the Higgs-gluon form factor in QCD at NNLO
Authors: Prausa Mario , Usovitsch Johann
Published: March 2021

Abstract

We present an analytic three-loop result for the leading color contribution to the Higgs-gluon form factor in QCD. The leading color contribution is given at next-to-next-to-leading order by the $$ {N}_c^2 $$

N
c
2

-term in QCD with Nc colors. The main focus of this article lies on the evaluation of the relevant Feynman integrals with a special emphasis on the elliptic sector.
Unitarity limits on thermal dark matter in (non-)standard cosmologies
Authors: Bhatia Disha , Mukhopadhyay Satyanarayan
Published: March 2021

Abstract

Using the upper bound on the inelastic reaction cross-section implied by S-matrix unitarity, we derive the thermally averaged maximum dark matter (DM) annihilation rate for general k → 2 number-changing reactions, with k ≥ 2, taking place either entirely within the dark sector, or involving standard model fields. This translates to a maximum mass of the particle saturating the observed DM abundance, which, for dominantly s-wave annihilations, is obtained to be around 130 TeV, 1 GeV, 7 MeV and 110 keV, for k = 2, 3, 4 and 5, respectively, in a radiation dominated Universe, for a real or complex scalar DM stabilized by a minimal symmetry. For modified thermal histories in the pre-big bang nucleosynthesis era, with an intermediate period of matter domination, values of reheating temperature higher than $$ \mathcal{O}(200) $$
O

200

GeV for k ≥ 4, $$ \mathcal{O}(1) $$
O

1

TeV for k = 3 and $$ \mathcal{O}(50) $$
O

50

TeV for k = 2 are strongly disfavoured by the combined requirements of unitarity and DM relic abundance, for DM freeze-out before reheating.
It is like taking a ball for a walk: on boundary work in software development
Authors: Wulff Kristin , Finnestrand Hanne
Published: March 2021

In this paper, we explore how the choices of boundary work in software development influence the team autonomy enacted by team members. Boundary work is when people protect their professional individual autonomy, when they downplay that autonomy to collaborate over professional boundaries, and when they create new boundaries. Team autonomy is here defined as a team using their autonomy to collaborate in deciding their own output. We use an action research design, with varied methodologies carried out through three action cycles. Our findings show that when collective, collaborative boundary work is not performed, a sort of individualized zone occurs where individuals either try to do collaborative boundary work by themselves or seek individual autonomy. We propose that individual autonomy can be divided into professional individual autonomy and situationally dependent individual autonomy. This research contributes theoretically by showing how the absence of collaborative boundary work can lead to an individualized zone. Practically, it can improve team autonomy by enhancing the understanding of why teams should perform collaborative boundary work. The value of the concept of boundary work used in this setting involves studying the intentions for collaboration, not whether collaboration actually takes place.
Evidence-based clinical practice guidelines for management of colorectal polyps
Authors: Tanaka Shinji , Saitoh Yusuke , Matsuda Takahisa , Igarashi Masahiro , Matsumoto Takayuki , Iwao Yasushi , Suzuki Yasumoto , Nozaki Ryoichi , Sugai Tamotsu , Oka Shiro , Itabashi Michio , Sugihara Ken-ichi , Tsuruta Osamu , Hirata Ichiro , Nishida Hiroshi , Miwa Hiroto , Enomoto Nobuyuki , Shimosegawa Tooru , Koike Kazuhiko
Published: March 2021

Background

The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology (JSGE) published ‘‘Daicho Polyp Shinryo Guideline 2014′’ in Japanese and a part of this guideline was published in English as “Evidence-based clinical practice guidelines for management of colorectal polyps” in the Journal of Gastroenterology in 2015. A revised version of the Japanese-language guideline was published in 2020, and here we introduce a part of the contents of revised version.

Methods

The guideline committee discussed and drew up a series of clinical questions (CQs). Recommendation statements for the CQs were limited to items with multiple therapeutic options. Items with established conclusions that had 100% agreement with previous guidelines (background questions) and items with no (or old) evidence that are topics for future research (future research questions: FRQs) were given descriptions only. To address the CQs and FRQs, PubMed, ICHUSHI, and other sources were searched for relevant articles published in English from 1983 to October 2018 and articles published in Japanese from 1983 to November 2018. The Japan Medical Library Association was also commissioned to search for relevant materials. Manual searches were performed for questions with insufficient online references.

Results

The professional committee created 18 CQs and statements concerning the current concept and diagnosis/treatment of various colorectal polyps, including their epidemiology, screening, pathophysiology, definition and classification, diagnosis, management, practical treatment, complications, and surveillance after treatment, and other colorectal lesions (submucosal tumors, nonneoplastic polyps, polyposis, hereditary tumors, ulcerative colitis-associated tumors/carcinomas).

Conclusions

After evaluation by the moderators, evidence-based clinical practice guidelines for management of colorectal polyps were proposed for 2020. This report addresses the therapeutic related CQs introduced when formulating these guidelines.
Cladocera paleocommunity to disentangle the impact of anthropogenic and climatic stressors on a deep subalpine lake ecosystem (Lake Iseo, Italy)
Authors: Leoni Barbara , Patelli Martina , Nava Veronica , Tolotti Monica
Published: March 2021

In big lakes with strong anthropogenic pressure, it is usually difficult to disentangle the impacts of climate variability from those driven by eutrophication. The present work aimed at the reconstruction of change in the species distribution and density of subfossil Cladocera in Lake Iseo (Italy) in relation to climate and anthropogenic pressure. We related subfossil Cladocera species composition and density in an 80-cm sediment core collected in the pelagic zone of Lake Iseo to long-term temperature trends and phosphorus concentration inferred by diatoms frustules. The Cladocera remains detected in Lake Iseo sediment reflected the species composition and density of modern pelagic Cladocera assemblages. Cladocera rapidly respond to environmental change, and that climate change combined with eutrophication can induce changes in community composition and species density. At the beginning of twentieth century, when global warming was not yet so accentuated, the nutrient increase in water resulted as the principal driver in determining the long-term development of plankton communities and pelagic food web structure. Moreover, catchment-related processes may decisively affect both species composition and density of the lake planktonic communities due to the decrease of lake water transparency induced by input of inorganic material from the catchment area to the lake. The paleolimnological investigation, through the combined study of biotic and abiotic factor, allowed clarifying the synergic effects of the most important drivers of change in lake ecosystems, suggesting that climatic factors should be considered with nutrient availability as determinant element in controlling the temporal development of plankton communities and pelagic food web structure.
Early Genital Surgery in Disorders/Differences of Sex Development: Patients’ Perspectives
Authors: Bennecke Elena , Bernstein Stephanie , Lee Peter , van de Grift Tim C. , Nordenskjöld Agneta , Rapp Marion , Simmonds Margaret , Streuli Jürg C. , Thyen Ute , Wiesemann Claudia ,   the dsd-LIFE Group
Published: March 2021

Controversy continues over a proposed moratorium on elective genital surgery in childhood for disorders/differences of sex development (DSD). Empirical evidence on patient preference is needed to inform decision-making. We conducted a multicentre survey by cross-sectional questionnaire in 14 specialized clinics in six European countries. The sample comprised 459 individuals (≥ 16 years) with a DSD diagnosis, including individuals with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) (n = 192), XY DSD with prenatal androgen effect (A) (n = 150), and without (nA) (n = 117). Main outcome measures were level of agreement with given statements regarding genital surgery, including clitoris reduction, vaginoplasty, and hypospadias repair. A total of 66% of individuals with CAH and 60% of those with XY DSD-A thought that infancy or childhood were the appropriate age for genital surgery. Females with XY DSD were divided on this issue and tended to prefer vaginoplasty at a later age (XY DSD-A 39%, XY DSD-nA 32%). A total of 47% of males preferred early hypospadias surgery. Only 12% (CAH), 11% (XY DSD-A), and 21% (XY DSD-nA) thought they would have been better off without any surgery in childhood or adolescence. Individuals who had early genital surgery were more likely to approve of it. Outcome data failed to support a general moratorium on early elective genital surgery. Participant perspectives varied considerably by diagnostic category, gender, history of surgery, and contact with support groups. Case-by-case decision-making is better suited to grasping the ethical complexity of the issues at stake.

Trial registration: German Clinical Trials Register DRKS00006072.
Inhibition of growth rate and cylindrospermopsin synthesis by Raphidiopsis raciborskii upon exposure to macrophyte Lemna trisulca (L)
Authors: Duchnik Kornelia , Bialczyk Jan , Chrapusta-Srebrny Ewelina , Bober Beata
Published: March 2021

Impact of macrophyte Lemna trisulca on the growth rate and synthesis of cylindrospermopsin (CYN) by cyanobacterium Raphidiopsis raciborskii was determined. The presence of L. trisulca inhibited the biomass accumulation of the cyanobacterium by 25% compared to the control during co-cultivation. The simultaneous cultivation of these organisms slightly affected the inhibition of macrophyte growth rate by 5.5% compared to the control. However, no morphological changes of L. trisulca after incubation with cyanobacteria were observed. It was also shown that the long-term (35 days) co-cultivation of R. raciborskii and L. trisulca led to a decrease in CYN concentration in media and cyanobacterial cells by 32 and 38%, respectively, compared to the values obtained for independent cultivation of cyanobacterium. Excessive absorption of phosphate ions by L. trisulca from the medium compared to nitrate ions led to a significant increase in the nitrate:phosphate ratio in the media, which inhibits the development of cyanobacterium. The obtained results indicate that L. trisulca in the natural environment may affect the physiology of cyanobacteria. The presented study is the first assessment of the allelopathic interaction of macrophyte and R. raciborskii.
Genetic liability to insomnia in relation to cardiovascular diseases: a Mendelian randomisation study
Authors: Yuan Shuai , Mason Amy M. , Burgess Stephen , Larsson Susanna C.
Published: March 2021

The present study aimed to determine the associations between insomnia and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) using Mendelian randomisation (MR) analysis. As instrumental variables, we used 208 independent single-nucleotide polymorphisms associated with insomnia at the genome-wide significance threshold in a meta-analysis of genome-wide association studies in the UK Biobank and 23andMe including a total of 397 959 self-reported insomnia cases and 933 057 non-cases. Summary-level data for nine CVDs were obtained from the UK Biobank including 367 586 individuals of European ancestry. After correction for multiple testing, genetic liability to insomnia was associated with higher odds of six CVDs, including peripheral arterial disease (odd ratio (OR) 1.22; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.21, 1.33), heart failure (OR 1.21; 95% CI, 1.13, 1.30), coronary artery disease (OR 1.19; 95% CI, 1.14, 1.25), ischaemic stroke (OR 1.15; 95% CI, 1.06, 1.25), venous thromboembolism (OR 1.13; 95% CI, 1.07, 1.19) and atrial fibrillation (OR 1.10; 95% CI, 1.05, 1.15). There were suggestive associations for aortic valve stenosis (OR, 1.17; 95% CI, 1.04, 1.32) and haemorrhagic stroke (OR 1.14; 95% CI, 1.00, 1.29) but no association for abdominal aortic aneurysm (OR, 1.14, 95% CI, 0.98, 1.33). The patterns of associations remained with mild attenuation in multivariable MR analyses adjusting for genetically correlated phenotypes and potential mediators, including sleep duration, depression, body mass index, type 2 diabetes and smoking. The present MR study suggests potential causal associations of genetic liability to insomnia with increased risk of a broad range of CVDs.
Pathways to Digital Service Innovation: The Role of Digital Transformation Strategies in Established Organizations
Authors: Soto Setzke David , Riasanow Tobias , Böhm Markus , Krcmar Helmut
Published: March 2021

Digital technologies are radically changing how established organizations design novel services. Digital transformation (DT) strategies are executed to manage the transition from product-centric to service-centric business models based on digital technologies. However, little is known about what configurations of DT strategies lead to successful digital service innovation (DSI) in established organizations. We employ fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis on a set of 17 case studies of DT strategies from established organizations with different industry backgrounds. We identify several distinct configurations of DT strategies that lead to successful and unsuccessful DSI. Based on these configurations, we deduce that the threat of digital disruption negatively impacts an organization’s innovation activities. Furthermore, we find that strategic partnerships can be leveraged by organizations that face an imminent threat of digital disruption while organizations with competitive advantages may rely on “do-it-yourself” approaches. Lastly, we find that the involvement of a C-level executive is a necessary requirement for successful DSI. Our results contribute to theory by integrating research on DSI and DT, providing a perspective on DSI failure, and employing a configurational research approach that allows us to highlight interdependencies between factors as well as insights into the individual factors. Furthermore, we provide actionable recommendations for executives.
The Interplay of Parental Response to Anger, Adolescent Anger Regulation, and Externalizing and Internalizing Problems: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Otterpohl Nantje , Wild Elke , Havighurst Sophie S. , Stiensmeier-Pelster Joachim , Kehoe Christiane E.
Published: March 2021

Numerous studies have reported substantive correlations between anger socialization, children’s anger regulation, and internalizing/externalizing problems. However, substantially less is known about the interplay among these constructs during the developmental stage of adolescence, and longitudinal studies on causal relations (i.e., parent-directed, adolescent-directed, or reciprocal effects) are rare. It is also unclear whether the development of internalizing and externalizing problems have similar causal relations. We collected three waves of longitudinal data (Grade 6, Grade 7, Grade 9) from multiple informants. A sample of N = 634 adolescents (mostly 11–12 years at Time 1; 50.6% male) and their parents (predominantly Caucasian with German nationality) completed questionnaires assessing parents’ responses to anger, adolescents’ anger regulation, and adolescents’ internalizing/externalizing problems at each wave. Comparisons of different cross-lagged models revealed reciprocal rather than unidirectional effects. However, we found more parent-directed effects with respect to the development of internalizing problems, whereas relations regarding externalizing problems were more adolescent-directed, i.e., adolescents’ externalizing problems and their anger regulation predicted changes in their parents’ responses to anger across time. Adolescent anger regulation was an important maintaining factor of parents’ responses to anger in later adolescence. Our findings suggest that assumptions regarding bidirectional relations should be emphasized much more in emotion socialization frameworks, particularly for the period of adolescence. Moreover, our study emphasizes the transdiagnostic importance of parents’ responses to anger for both externalizing and internalizing problems and also suggests different underlying mechanisms.