bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Revisiting inclusive decay widths of charmed mesons
Authors: King Daniel , Lenz Alexander , Piscopo Maria Laura , Rauh Thomas , Rusov Aleksey V. , Vlahos Christos
Published: August 2022

Abstract

Determining for the first time the Darwin operator contribution for the non-leptonic charm-quark decays and using new non-perturbative results for the matrix elements of ∆C = 0 four-quark operators, including eye-contractions, we present a comprehensive study of the lifetimes of charmed mesons and inclusive semileptonic decay rates as well as the ratios, within the framework of the Heavy Quark Expansion (HQE). We find good agreement with experiment for the ratio τ(D+)/τ(D0), for the total $$ {D}_s^{+} $$

D
s
+

-meson decay rate, for the semileptonic rates of all three mesons D0, D+ and $$ {D}_s^{+} $$

D
s
+

, and for the semileptonic ratio $$ {\Gamma}_{sl}^{D^{+}}/{\Gamma}_{sl}^{D^0} $$

Γ
sl

D
+

/

Γ
sl

D
0

. The total decay rates of the D0 and D+ mesons are underestimated in our HQE approach and we suspect that this is due to missing higher-order QCD corrections to the free charm quark decay and the Pauli interference contribution. For the SU(3)F breaking ratios $$ \tau \left({D}_s^{+}\right)/\tau \left({D}^0\right) $$
τ

D
s
+

/
τ

D
0

and $$ {\Gamma}_{sl}^{D_s^{+}}/{\Gamma}_{sl}^{D^0} $$

Γ
sl

D
s
+

/

Γ
sl

D
0

our predictions lie closer to one than experiment. This might originate from the poor knowledge of the non-perturbative parameters $$ {\mu}_G^2 $$

μ
G
2

, $$ {\mu}_{\uppi}^2 $$

μ
π
2

and $$ {\rho}_D^3 $$

ρ
D
3

in the D0 and $$ {D}_s^{+} $$

D
s
+

systems. These parameters could be determined by experimental studies of the moments of inclusive semileptonic D meson decays.
Expert views about missing AI narratives: is there an AI story crisis?
Authors: Chubb Jennifer , Reed Darren , Cowling Peter
Published: August 2022

Stories are an important indicator of our vision of the future. In the case of artificial intelligence (AI), dominant stories are polarized between notions of threat and myopic solutionism. The central storytellers—big tech, popular media, and authors of science fiction—represent particular demographics and motivations. Many stories, and storytellers, are missing. This paper details the accounts of missing AI narratives by leading scholars from a range of disciplines interested in AI Futures. Participants focused on the gaps between dominant narratives and the untold stories of the capabilities, issues, and everyday realities of the technology. One participant proposed a “story crisis” in which these narratives compete to shape the public discourse on AI. Our findings indicate that dominant narratives distract and mislead public understandings and conceptions of AI. This suggests a need to pay closer attention to missing AI narratives. It is not simply about telling new stories, it is about listening to existing stories and asking what is wanted from AI. We call for realistic, nuanced, and inclusive stories, working with and for diverse voices, which consider (1) story-teller; (2) genre, and (3) communicative purpose. Such stories can then inspire the next generation of thinkers, technologists, and storytellers.
Laser-based powder bed fusion of Ti-6Al-4V powder modified with SiO2 nanoparticles
Authors: Emminghaus Nicole , Bernhard Robert , Hermsdorf Jörg , Kaierle Stefan
Published: August 2022

In laser-based powder bed fusion of metals (PBF-LB/M), residual oxygen in the processing atmosphere is regarded as disruptive and disadvantageous for the manufacturing process and the resulting component properties. A novel approach to eliminate residual oxygen is to add small amounts of silane to the argon process gas. Silane eliminates residual oxygen and forms SiO2 nanoparticles, which in turn can be incorporated into the powder during the process. It is therefore necessary to evaluate the influence of these nanoparticles admixed to the metal powder. In this work, Ti-6Al-4V powder was modified with pyrogenic SiO2 nanoparticles generated by the reaction of a silane argon gas mixture with ambient air. Modified and unmodified powder was analyzed and processed using statistically designed experiments. An improvement of the flow rate according to DIN EN ISO 4490 (from 33.3 to 32.5 s/50 g) and increase of apparent density according to DIN EN ISO 3923 (from 2.52 to 2.58 g/cm3) could be observed after powder modification. No statistically significant effects of the modification on roughness, porosity, and hardness were found. The results demonstrate that powder modification using silane can lead to enhanced flowability without affecting the PBF-LB processing window of Ti-6Al-4V.
An EANM position paper on the application of artificial intelligence in nuclear medicine
Authors: Hustinx Roland , Pruim Jan , Lassmann Michael , Visvikis Dimitris
Published: August 2022

Artificial intelligence (AI) is coming into the field of nuclear medicine, and it is likely here to stay. As a society, EANM can and must play a central role in the use of AI in nuclear medicine. In this position paper, the EANM explains the preconditions for the implementation of AI in NM and takes position.
Leaping Forwards, Bouncing Forwards, or Just Bouncing Back: Resilience in Environmental Public Agencies Through after the Austerity Decade
Authors: Kirsop-Taylor Nick
Published: August 2022

The resilience of public environmental agencies is an important but broadly under-researched discourse. This paper addresses this lacuna by drawing on a three-part typology of resilience from organizational studies and applying it to the English natural environment agency, Natural England, following a decade of public sector agency de-funding under the aegis of austerity. The research question was explored qualitatively through eleven semi-structured interviews with the senior management team of Natural England during the summer of 2020. The findings suggest that public agency multi-functionality equate to heterogenous resilience across agency functions; that generally agency resilience (as a function of capacities) is poor with consequences upon good governance; and that they are broadly poorly positioned for the aftermath of Covid-19. The findings speak directly to the regulatory and organizational literatures with public administration by evidencing the complex realities of understanding resiliencies in large multi-functional public environmental agencies.
PHARAO-Studie: Arzneimittelversorgung entzündlich rheumatischer Erkrankungen
Authors: Hörbrand Franziska , Schuch Florian , Bleß Hans-Holger , Messinger David , Bretthauer Bork , Killian Peter
Published: August 2022

Hintergrund

Mit Einführung der Tumornekrosefaktor(TNF)-α-Blocker hat die Behandlung entzündlich rheumatischer Erkrankungen (ERE) einen grundlegenden Wandel erfahren. Etliche der ursprünglich hochpreisigen Biologika verloren im Verlauf der Studie ihren Patentschutz und standen seitdem als kostengünstigere Biosimilars zur Verfügung, sodass ein bedeutsames Verordnungshemmnis entfallen ist.

Fragestellung

In der vorliegenden Studie wurde untersucht, ob die Verfügbarkeit von Biosimilars mit einer Verbesserung der Versorgung von ERE einhergeht. Zugleich wurde die subjektive Akzeptanz von Biosimilars bei Ärzten und Patienten untersucht und mit standardisierten Scores abgeglichen.

Material und Methoden

Als Datengrundlage dienten pseudonymisierte Abrechnungsdaten der Kassenärztlichen Vereinigung Bayerns von 2014 bis 2019 sowie eine Paper-Pencil-Befragung von Patienten und Rheumatologen.

Ergebnisse

Im Beobachtungszeitraum stieg der Anteil an diagnostizierten Patienten, die eine Arzneimitteltherapie erhielten, von 38,5 % auf 43,2 % an. Deren Versorgung veränderte sich auch in Bezug auf die verordneten Wirkstoffe. Die konventionelle medikamentöse Therapie war insgesamt rückläufig. Insbesondere die Verordnung von Glukokortikoiden sank von 39,3 % in 2014 auf 34,3 % in 2019. Zugleich stieg der Anteil zielgerichteter Behandlungen von 12,3 % auf 20,4 %. Die mediane Dauer der Basistherapie vor erstmaligem bDMARD-Einsatz verkürzte sich von 3,15 Jahren in 2014 auf 2,17 Jahre in 2019.

Diskussion

Über den Beobachtungszeitraum, in den auch der Markteintritt von 3 Biosimilars fällt, verbesserte sich die Versorgung von Patienten mit ERE quantitativ wie qualitativ. Der Versorgungsanteil von Biosimilars nahm parallel zu der aufgezeigten Entwicklung zu. Bei insgesamt hoher Akzeptanz von Biosimilars verweist die Einschätzung des Krankheitsverlaufes von Ärzten und Patienten auf einen leichten, subjektiv wahrgenommenen Vorteil der Therapie mit Originalen im Vergleich zur Biosimilar-Therapie, der sich bei Anwendung standardisierter Scores jedoch nicht bestätigt. Eine mögliche Erklärung hierfür könnte ein Nocebo-Effekt sein, der durch geeignete Kommunikationsstrategien minimiert werden könnte.
Laparoscopic Lumen-guided cholecystectomy in face of the difficult gallbladder
Authors: Lucocq James , Taylor Aaron , Driscoll Peter , Naqvi Syed , MacMillan Alasdair , Bennett Stephen , Luhmann Andreas , Robertson Andrew G.
Published: August 2022

Background

Where the critical view of safety cannot be established during cholecystectomy, certain salvage techniques are indicated to reduce the likelihood of bile duct injury. The present study describes a salvage technique termed the “laparoscopic lumen-guided cholecystectomy” (LLC) and reports its peri-operative outcomes.

Method

A summary of the technique is as follows: (1) Hartmann’s pouch is incised and stones are evacuated; (2) the cystic anatomy is inspected from the inside of the gallbladder; (3) the lumen is used to guide retrograde dissection towards the cystic pedicle; (4) cystic duct control is achieved if deemed safe. LLC cases performed between June 2020 and January 2022 in a single health board were included. The operative details and peri-operative outcomes of the technique are reported and compared to cases of similar difficulty where the LLC was not attempted.

Results

LLC was performed in 4.6% (27/587) of cases. In all 27 cases, LLC was performed for a “frozen” cholecystohepatic triangle. Hartmann’s pouch was completely excised in all cases (27/27) and cystic duct control was achieved in 85.2% of cases (23/27). No cases of bile leak or ductal injury were reported. Rates of bile leak, post-operative complications and ERCP were lower following LLC compared to the group where LLC was not attempted (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

LLC is a safe salvage technique and should be considered in cases where the critical view of safety cannot be established. The technique achieves cystic duct control in the majority of cases and favourable outcomes in the face of a difficult cholecystectomy.
Cyclic Variations in the Flame Propagation in an Spark-Ignited Engine: Multi Cycle Large Eddy Simulation Supported by Imaging Diagnostics
Authors: Engelmann Linus , Laichter Judith , Wollny Patrick , Klein Markus , Kaiser Sebastian A. , Kempf Andreas M.
Published: August 2022

Experimental measurements and multi-cycle large eddy simulation (LES) are performed in an optically accessible four-stroke spark-ignition engine to investigate cycle-to-cycle variations (CCV). High-speed combustion imaging is used to measure the early flame propagation and obtain the flame radius and centroids. Large Eddy Simulation generates data-bases for the flame propagation as well as the kinetic energy in the cylinder and confirms the observations from the two-dimensional fields by three-dimensional simulation results. Experiment and simulation are compared with respect to the strength and distribution of CCV. Both approaches reveal CCV causing similar statistics of maximum pressures and combustion speeds. The cycles are categorized as slow and fast cycles using the crank angle of ten percent burnt fuel-mixture. Analysis of the flame centroids shows that slow cycles move further towards the intake-side of the engine compared to fast cycles. The kinetic energy during combustion is averaged for the slow and fast cycles based on the samples being in unburnt and burnt mixture. Studying the kinetic energy level in the unburnt and burnt mixture reveals higher turbulent kinetic energy for the fast cycles as well as larger separation between the global kinetic and the turbulent kinetic energy for the slow cycles, providing evidence for a source of the CCV variations observed in this engine.
Dielectrophoretic separation of blood cells
Authors: Emmerich Maria E. P. , Sinnigen Anne-Sophie , Neubauer Peter , Birkholz Mario
Published: August 2022

Microfluidic dielectrophoretic (DEP) devices enable the label-free separation and isolation of cells based on differences in their electrophysiological properties. The technique can serve as a tool in clinical diagnostics and medical research as it facilitates the analysis of patient-specific blood composition and the detection and isolation of pathogenic cells like circulating tumor cells or malaria-infected erythrocytes. This review compares different microfluidic DEP devices to separate platelets, erythrocytes and leukocytes including their cellular subclasses. An overview and experimental setups of different microfluidic DEP devices for the separation, trapping and isolation or purification of blood cells are detailed with respect to their technical design, electrode configuration, sample preparation, applied voltage and frequency and created DEP field based and related to the separation efficiency. The technique holds the promise that results can quickly be attained in clinical and ambulant settings. In particular, point-of-care-testing scenarios are favored by the extensive miniaturization, which would be enabled by microelectronical integration of DEP devices.
Autism Spectrum Disorder and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Shared or Unique Neurocognitive Profiles?
Authors: Schachar Russell J. , Dupuis Annie , Arnold Paul D. , Anagnostou Evdokia , Kelley Elizabeth , Georgiades Stelios , Nicolson Robert , Townes Parker , Burton Christie L. , Crosbie Jennifer
Published: August 2022

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity (ADHD) and autism spectrum (ASD) disorders are commonly co-occurring conditions characterized by neurocognitive impairments. Few studies have directly compared neurocognitive profiles in ADHD and ASD and fewer still have controlled for comorbidity of ADHD and ASD. All direct comparisons have been in clinic samples, leaving the question of generalizability of results unaddressed. We compared neurocognitive performance in clinically ascertained ASD (n = 261) and ADHD (n = 423) cases and controls (n = 162), 6.0–17.9 years of age. We also compared ASD (n = 190) and ADHD (n = 926) cases ascertained in the community with controls (n = 14,842) of similar age. Using the stop-signal task (SST), we measured response inhibition (stop-signal reaction time–SSRT), sustained attention (defined as reaction time variability–RTV), and reaction time (RT). We controlled for comorbidity using ADHD and ASD trait scores and categorically-defined ADHD. Compared with controls, both clinic ADHD and ASD had significantly longer SSRT and RTV than controls and did not differ from each other. ADHD traits accounted for neurocognitive impairment in ASD, but not vice versa. There were no group differences for RT. Similar patterns of neurocognitive impairment were observed in the community sample. In the largest direct comparison of ADHD and ASD to date, we found impaired response inhibition and sustained attention in both disorders. However, neurocognitive impairment in ASD was almost completely accounted for by comorbid ADHD. Results generalized in the community sample indicating that referral bias alone did not drive results. Response inhibition and sustained attention likely play a role in ADHD and ASD.
ML-Based Handover Prediction and AP Selection in Cognitive Wi-Fi Networks
Authors: Khan Muhammad Asif , Hamila Ridha , Gastli Adel , Kiranyaz Serkan , Al-Emadi Nasser Ahmed
Published: August 2022

Device mobility in dense Wi-Fi networks offers several challenges. Two well-known problems related to device mobility are handover prediction and access point selection. Due to the complex nature of the radio environment, analytical models may not characterize the wireless channel, which makes the solution of these problems very difficult. Recently, cognitive network architectures using sophisticated learning techniques are increasingly being applied to such problems. In this paper, we propose data-driven machine learning (ML) schemes to efficiently solve these problems in wireless LAN (WLAN) networks. The proposed schemes are evaluated and results are compared with traditional approaches to the aforementioned problems. The results report significant improvement in network performance by applying the proposed schemes. The proposed scheme for handover prediction outperforms traditional methods i.e. received signal strength method and traveling distance method by reducing the number of unnecessary handovers by 60% and 50% respectively. Similarly, in AP selection, the proposed scheme outperforms the strongest signal first and least loaded first algorithms by achieving higher throughput gains up to 9.2% and 8% respectively.
Learning with risks based on M-location
Authors: Holland Matthew J.
Published: August 2022

In this work, we study a new class of risks defined in terms of the location and deviation of the loss distribution, generalizing far beyond classical mean-variance risk functions. The class is easily implemented as a wrapper around any smooth loss, it admits finite-sample stationarity guarantees for stochastic gradient methods, it is straightforward to interpret and adjust, with close links to M-estimators of the loss location, and has a salient effect on the test loss distribution, giving us control over symmetry and deviations that are not possible under naive ERM.
Strong historical earthquakes and their relationships with the Tan-Lu fault system and modern seismicity in eastern China
Authors: Wang Jian , Main Ian G.
Published: August 2022

The largest earthquake (Ms 8½) in eastern China occurred near Tancheng in 1668. Six M ≥ 6 earthquakes occurred in this region in historical time. We re-examine the primary historical archives from this region, adding independent constraints such as maps of active faults, local topography, intensity attenuation laws for China, and relevant administrative practices in archiving data, to reassess source parameters (epicenter, magnitude, or maximum intensity). We use the seismic density index—a measure of the clustering of seismicity weighted by source magnitude—to identify candidate zones of present-day clustering of seismicity than may represent a long-term memory of past historical events in an intraplate setting. We update at least one of the source parameters for four of the seven events. The main shock and two aftershocks of the 1668–1672 Ms 8½ Tancheng earthquake sequence locate along the strike of the Tan-Lu fault zone, each associated with significant and contiguous seismic density anomalies whose elliptical contours are elongated along its strike. A third major aftershock (Ms ≈ 6) in this sequence locates some 200 km away from the fault zone. Six of the seven historical events have seismic density anomalies that cannot be explained by aftershocks of modern seismicity (ML  ≤  5.3), and hence are candidate zones for long-lived aftershock sequences. In contrast, there are no significant seismic density anomalies along the section of Tan-Lu fault south of Suqian, despite palaeo-seismic evidence for a Ms 8½ earthquake around 6280 B.C., providing an upper bound to long-term memory of great earthquakes in this region.
Impact of Sinorhizobium meliloti strains and plant population on regrowth and nodule regeneration of alfalfa after a freezing event
Authors: D’Amours Emmanuelle , Bertrand Annick , Cloutier Jean , Claessens Annie , Rocher Solen , Seguin Philippe
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The increase in frequency of freeze–thaw episodes with the diminution of snow cover protection due to climate change compromises the winter survival of alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.). Symbiosis with cold-tolerant rhizobial strains can improve the ability of alfalfa to survive and grow under stressful conditions.

Methods

Six strains of Sinorhizobium (Ensifer) meliloti were tested in combination with two alfalfa populations bred to differ in their levels of freezing tolerance. Plants of each different combination were grown for eight weeks in a growth chamber before being exposed to temperatures promoting their acclimation to cold. Plants were then exposed to a freezing stress (-11ºC) and regrown for three weeks. Shoot, root and nodule biomass were measured before cold acclimation and three weeks after the freezing stress.

Results

After freezing stress, the alfalfa population A-TF7 had shoot and root biomasses that were respectively 19% and 15% larger than cultivar A-TF0. Alfalfa plants inoculated with strain NRG34 showed both a larger shoot biomass and a higher nodule dry weight than plants inoculated with any other strains. Assessment of freezing damages on nodules showed that plants inoculated with NRG34 had the largest proportion of undamaged nodules or of nodules with a regeneration zone.

Conclusion

This study shows for the first time a relationship between nodule and shoot regrowth after a freezing stress, the latter being linked with the proportion of nodules showing less freezing damage. Our results demonstrated that both the choice of alfalfa populations and S. meliloti strains adapted to stress are complementary to increasing alfalfa persistence.
A Systematic Review of Research on Family Resemblance Approach to Nature of Science in Science Education
Authors: Cheung Kason Ka Ching , Erduran Sibel
Published: August 2022

The paper reports about the outcome of a systematic review of research on family resemblance approach (FRA) to nature of science in (NOS) science education. FRA is a relatively recent perspective on NOS being a system of cognitive-epistemic and social-institutional aspects of science. FRA thus consists of a set of categories such as aims and values, practices, knowledge and social organizations in relation to NOS. Since the introduction of the FRA, there has been increasing interest in investigations about how FRA can be of use in science education both empirically and practically. A journal content analysis was conducted in order to investigate which FRA categories are covered in journal articles and to identify the characteristics of the studies that have used FRA. These characteristics included the target level of education and focus on pre- or in-service teachers. Furthermore, epistemic network analysis of theoretical and empirical papers was conducted to determine the extent to which the studies incorporated various key themes about FRA, such as its transferability to other domains and differentiation of the social-institutional system categories. The findings illustrate an increasing number of empirical studies using FRA in recent years and broad coverage in science education. Although the social-institutional system categories included intraconnections, these were not as strong as those intraconnections among categories within the cognitive-epistemic system. Future research directions for the use of FRA in K-12 science education are discussed.
Macroalga-associated bacterial endophyte bioactive secondary metabolites twinning: Cystoseira myrica and its associated Catenococcus thiocycli QCm as a model
Authors: Hagaggi Noura Sh. A. , Abdul-Raouf Usama M.
Published: August 2022

Marine ecosystems represent the largest biome on the earth. Until now, the relationships between the marine microbial inhabitants and the macroalgal species unclear, and the previous studies are insufficient. So, more research is required to advance our understanding of macroalgal- microbial interactions. In this study, we tried to investigate the relationship between the brown marine macroalga, Cystoseira myrica and its associated bacterial endophyte, Catenococcus thiocycli, as the first study concerning the production of bioactive secondary metabolites from a macroalgal species comparing with its associated endophytic bacteria. Secondary metabolites were extracted from alga and its bacterial endophyte with ethyl acetate and methanol. All extracts contained significant quantities of phenolics, flavonoids, tannins, and saponins. Strikingly, extracts possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities which were significantly correlated to phenolic and flavonoid contents.
Lenvatinib for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma—a real-world multicenter Australian cohort study
Authors: Patwala Kurvi , Prince David Stephen , Celermajer Yael , Alam Waafiqa , Paul Eldho , Strasser Simone Irene , McCaughan Geoffrey William , Gow Paul , Sood Siddharth , Murphy Elise , Roberts Stuart , Freeman Elliot , Stratton Elizabeth , Davison Scott Anthony , Levy Miriam Tania , Clark-Dickson McCawley , Nguyen Vi , Bell Sally , Nicoll Amanda , Bloom Ashley , Lee Alice Unah , Ryan Marno , Howell Jessica , Valaydon Zina , Mack Alexandra , Liu Ken , Dev Anouk
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a serious complication of chronic liver disease. Lenvatinib is an oral multikinase inhibitor registered to treat advanced HCC. This study evaluates the real-world experience with lenvatinib in Australia.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of patients treated with lenvatinib for advanced HCC between July 2018 and November 2020 at 11 Australian tertiary care hospitals. Baseline demographic data, tumor characteristics, lenvatinib dosing, adverse events (AEs) and clinical outcomes were collected. Overall survival (OS) was the primary outcome. Progression free survival (PFS) and AEs were secondary outcomes.

Results

A total of 155 patients were included and were predominantly male (90.7%) with a median age of 65 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 59–75). The main causes of chronic liver disease were hepatitis C infection (40.0%) and alcohol-related liver disease (34.2). Median OS and PFS were 7.7 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 5.8–14.0) and 5.3 months (95% CI: 2.8–9.2) respectively. Multivariate predictors of mortality were the need for dose reduction due to AEs (Hazard ratio [HR] 0.41, p < 0.01), new or worsening hypertension (HR 0.42, p < 0.01), diarrhoea (HR 0.47, p = 0.04) and more advanced BCLC stage (HR 2.50, p = 0.04). Multivariable predictors of disease progression were higher Child–Pugh score (HR 1.25, p = 0.04), the need for a dose reduction (HR 0.45, p < 0.01) and age (HR 0.96, p < 0.001). AEs occurred in 83.9% of patients with most being mild (71.6%).

Conclusions

Lenvatinib remains safe and effective in real-world use. Treatment emergent diarrhoea and hypertension, and the need for dose reduction appear to predict better OS.
Expert consensus of the Spanish Society of Pathology and the Spanish Society of Medical Oncology on the determination of biomarkers in pancreatic and biliary tract cancer
Authors: Vera Ruth , Ibarrola-de-Andrés Carolina , Adeva Jorge , Pérez-Rojas Judith , García-Alfonso Pilar , Rodríguez-Gil Yolanda , Macarulla Teresa , Serrano-Piñol Teresa , Mondéjar Rebeca , Madrigal-Rubiales Beatriz
Published: August 2022

Pancreatic cancer and biliary tract cancer have a poor prognosis. In recent years, the development of new diagnostic techniques has enabled the identification of the main genetic alterations involved in the development of these tumours. Multiple studies have assessed the ability of certain biomarkers, such as BRCA in pancreatic cancer, IDH1 or FGFR2 in biliary tract cancer and microsatellite instability or NTRK fusions in an agnostic tumour fashion, to predict response to treatment.

In this consensus, a group of experts selected by the Spanish Society of Medical Oncology (SEOM) and the Spanish Society of Pathology (SEAP) reviewed the role played by these mutations in the process of carcinogenesis and their clinical implications. As a result, this article proposes a series of recommendations to optimize the determination of these biomarkers to help standardize the diagnosis and treatment of these tumours.
Reduzieren Zustimmungsquoren die Beteiligung an direktdemokratischen Abstimmungen?
Authors: Marx Thomas , Leininger Arndt
Published: August 2022

Die Frage nach der Auswirkung von Zustimmungsquoren auf die politische Partizipation gewinnt mit jedem Volksentscheid an Bedeutung, ist gleichzeitig aber noch weitgehend unerforscht. Obwohl das Zustimmungsquorum Volksentscheide in den Ländern der Bundesrepublik Deutschland beschränkt und auch in anderen Ländern weit verbreitet ist, konzentrierte sich die Forschung bislang auf die Analyse des Beteiligungsquorums. Wir argumentieren, dass auch ein Zustimmungsquorum Anreize für Bürgerinnen und Bürger sowie kollektive Akteure setzt, die Abstimmung zu boykottieren. Dieser Aufsatz versucht daher, den Einfluss von Zustimmungsquoren auf die Abstimmungsbeteiligung und Mehrheitsbilder in allen auf Basis eines Volksbegehrens initiierten Volksentscheide auf Ebene der deutschen Bundesländer zu erfassen. Neben einer Gegenüberstellung von Entscheiden mit und ohne Zustimmungsquorum wird mittels Regressionsanalysen die Korrelation zwischen der Quorenhöhe, der Salienz der Abstimmungsfrage und der Abstimmungsbeteiligung berechnet. Übereinstimmend mit unseren theoretischen Erwartungen zeigen unsere Ergebnisse einen robusten, jedoch nur selten signifikanten, negativen Zusammenhang zwischen der Höhe von Zustimmungsquoren und der Abstimmungsbeteiligung, welcher sich insbesondere bei Entscheiden von geringer gesellschaftlicher Salienz zeigt.
Combination of close-range and aerial photogrammetry with terrestrial laser scanning to answer microbiological and climatological questions in connection with lava caves
Authors: Kögel Michael , Pflitsch Andreas , Northup Diana E. , Carstensen Dirk , Medley Joseph J. , Mansheim Teresa , Killing Thomas , Buschbacher Michael , Angerer Helena , Falkner Julian , Kynatidis Achilleas , Ott Valentin , Regler Simon
Published: August 2022

Combining photogrammetric reconstruction (close-range photogrammetry, CRP) and airborne photogrammetry through the structure from motion method (SFM) with terrestrial three-dimensional (3D) laser scanning (TLS), Maelstrom Cave on Big Island, Hawaii (USA), was mapped in three dimensions. The complementary properties of the two methods generated an overall model that depicted significant features of the cave both spatially and visually. Through various processes, the complex geometric quantities were derived from the model that can be used to answer microbiological and climatological questions. In this report, the procedure for the three-dimensional acquisition of the terrain surface above Maelstrom Cave as well as the interior of the cave with TLS and SFM is described. It is shown how the different data sets were combined and contrasted, including a comparison of geometries from the different survey operations. Finally, the editing processes used to quantify and simplify the cave geometry are presented, as well as the analysis of the ellipses generated accordingly to determine the geometric quantities. Through the analysis of the cave geometry, important geometric properties of the Maelstrom Cave could be quantified and categorized. In this way, an effective tool was developed to directly correlate the structure of the cave system with climatological and microbiological parameters in order to answer the corresponding questions.
Anisotropic interpolation error estimates using a new geometric parameter
Authors: Ishizaka Hiroki , Kobayashi Kenta , Tsuchiya Takuya
Published: August 2022

We present precise anisotropic interpolation error estimates for smooth functions using a new geometric parameter and derive inverse inequalities on anisotropic meshes. In our theory, the interpolation error is bounded in terms of the diameter of a simplex and the geometric parameter. Imposing additional assumptions makes it possible to obtain anisotropic error estimates. This paper also includes corrections to an error in Theorem 2 of our previous paper, “General theory of interpolation error estimates on anisotropic meshes” (Japan Journal of Industrial and Applied Mathematics, 38 (2021) 163–191).
Hybrid deposition additive manufacturing: novel volume distribution, thermo-mechanical characterization, and image analysis
Authors: Harris Muhammad , Mohsin Hammad , Potgieter Johan , Arif Khalid Mahmood , Anwar Saqib , AlFaify Abdullah , Farooq Muhammad Umar
Published: August 2022

The structural integrity of additive manufacturing structures is a pronounced challenge considering the voids and weak layer-to-layer adhesion. One of the potential ways is hybrid deposition manufacturing (HDM) that includes fused filament fabrication (FFF) with the conventional filling process, also known as “HDM composites". HDM is a potential technique for improving structural stability by replacing the thermoplastic void structure with a voidless epoxy. However, the literature lacks investigation of FFF/epoxy HDM-based composites regarding optimal volume distribution, effects of brittle and ductile FFF materials, and fractographic analysis. This research presents the effects of range of volume distributions (10–90%) between FFF and epoxy system for tensile, flexure, and compressive characterization. Volume distribution in tensile and flexure samples is achieved using printable wall thickness, slot width, and maximum width. For compression, the printable wall thickness, slot diameter, and external diameter are considered. Polylactic acid and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene are used to analyze the brittle and ductile FFF structures. The research reports novel application of image analysis during mechanical characterization using high-quality camera and fractographic analysis using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results present surprising high tensile strain (0.038 mm/mm) and compressive strength (64.5 MPa) for lower FDM-percentages (10%, 20%) that are explained using in situ image analysis, SEM, stress–strain simulations, and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA). In this regard, the proposed work holds novelty to apply DMA for HDM. The optimal volume distributions of 70% and 80% alongside fractographic mechanisms for lower percentages (10%, 20%) can potentially contribute to structural applications and future material-based innovations for HDM.
A systematic review of the efficacy and safety of anticoagulants in advanced chronic kidney disease
Authors: Parker Kathrine , Hartemink John , Saha Ananya , Mitra Roshni , Lewis Penny , Power Albert , Choudhuri Satarupa , Mitra Sandip , Thachil Jecko
Published: August 2022

Background

Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) have an increased risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) and atrial fibrillation (AF). Anticoagulants have not been studied in randomised controlled trials with CrCl < 30 ml/min. The objective of this review was to identify the impact of different anticoagulant strategies in patients with advanced CKD including dialysis.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of randomized controlled trials and cohort studies, searching electronic databases from 1946 to 2022. Studies that evaluated both thrombotic and bleeding outcomes with anticoagulant use in CrCl < 50 ml/min were included.

Results

Our initial search yielded 14,503 papers with 53 suitable for inclusion. RCTs comparing direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) versus warfarin for patients with VTE and CrCl 30-50 ml/min found no difference in recurrent VTE events (RR 0.68(95% CI 0.42–1.11)) with reduced bleeding (RR 0.65 (95% CI 0.45–0.94)). Observational data in haemodialysis suggest lower risk of recurrent VTE and major bleeding with apixaban versus warfarin. Very few studies examining outcomes were available for therapeutic and prophylactic dose low molecular weight heparin for CrCl < 30 ml/min. Findings for patients with AF on dialysis were that warfarin or DOACs had a similar or higher risk of stroke compared to no anticoagulation. For patients with AF and CrCl < 30 ml/min not on dialysis, anticoagulation should be considered on an individual basis, with limited studies suggesting DOACs may have a preferable safety profile.

Conclusion

Further studies are still required, some ongoing, in patients with advanced CKD (CrCl < 30 ml/min) to identify the safest and most effective treatment options for VTE and AF.
MOF-Like 3D Graphene-Based Catalytic Membrane Fabricated by One-Step Laser Scribing for Robust Water Purification and Green Energy Production
Authors: Huang Xinyu , Li Liheng , Zhao Shuaifei , Tong Lei , Li Zheng , Peng Zhuiri , Lin Runfeng , Zhou Li , Peng Chang , Xue Kan-Hao , Chen Lijuan , Cheng Gary J. , Xiong Zhu , Ye Lei
Published: August 2022

Increasing both clean water and green energy demands for survival and development are the grand challenges of our age. Here, we successfully fabricate a novel multifunctional 3D graphene-based catalytic membrane (3D-GCM) with active metal nanoparticles (AMNs) loading for simultaneously obtaining the water purification and clean energy generation, via a “green” one-step laser scribing technology. The as-prepared 3D-GCM shows high porosity and uniform distribution with AMNs, which exhibits high permeated fluxes (over 100 L m−2 h−1) and versatile super-adsorption capacities for the removal of tricky organic pollutants from wastewater under ultra-low pressure-driving (0.1 bar). After adsorption saturating, the AMNs in 3D-GCM actuates the advanced oxidization process to self-clean the fouled membrane via the catalysis, and restores the adsorption capacity well for the next time membrane separation. Most importantly, the 3D-GCM with the welding of laser scribing overcomes the lateral shear force damaging during the long-term separation. Moreover, the 3D-GCM could emit plentiful of hot electrons from AMNs under light irradiation, realizing the membrane catalytic hydrolysis reactions for hydrogen energy generation. This “green” precision manufacturing with laser scribing technology provides a feasible technology to fabricate high-efficient and robust 3D-GCM microreactor in the tricky wastewater purification and sustainable clean energy production as well.
Bioinspired Multi-Metal Structures Produced via Direct Ink Writing
Authors: Xu Chao , Chen Xiang , Wu Wenzheng , Liu Qingping , Ren Luquan
Published: August 2022

Bioinspired Multi-Metal Structures (MMSs) combine distinct properties of multiple materials, benefiting from improved properties and providing superior designs. Additive Manufacturing (AM) exhibits enormous advantages in applying different materials and geometries according to the desired functions at specific locations of the structure, having great potential in fabricating multi-materials structures. However, current AM techniques have difficulty manufacturing 3D MMSs without material cross-contamination flexibly and reliably. This study demonstrates a reliable, fast, and flexible direct ink writing method to fabricate 3D MMSs. The in-situ material-switching system enables the deposition of multiple metallic materials across different layers and within the same layer. 3D Fe–Cu MMSs with complex geometries and fine details are fabricated as proof of concept. The microstructures, chemical and phase compositions, and tensile fracture surfaces of the Fe–Cu interfaces indicate a well-bonded interface without cracks, delamination, or material cross-contamination. We envision this novel method making other metallic combinations and even metal-ceramic components. It paves the way for manufacturing 3D MMSs using AM and establishes the possibilities of numerous MMSs applications in engineering fields.
The importance of humanizing AI: using a behavioral lens to bridge the gaps between humans and machines
Authors: Fenwick A. , Molnar G.
Published: August 2022

One of the biggest challenges in Artificial Intelligence (AI) development and application is the lack of consideration for human enhancement as a cornerstone for its operationalization. Nor is there a universally accepted approach that guides best practices in this field. However, the behavioral science field offers suggestions on how to develop a sustainable and enriching relationship between humans and intelligent machines. This paper provides a three-level (micro, meso and macro) framework on how to humanize AI with the intention of enhancing human properties and experiences. It argues that humanizing AI will help make intelligent machines not just more efficient but will also make their application more ethical and human-centric. Suggestions to policymakers, organizations, and developers are made on how to implement this framework to fix existing issues in AI and create a more symbiotic relationship between humans and machines moving into the future.
Understanding Human Metabolism
Authors: Frayn Keith N.
Published: August 2022

Does eating more carbohydrates, or fats, cause one to put on more weight? Are ketone bodies toxins or vital products that keep us alive during starvation? Does the concept of 'fat-burning exercise' hold true? In this game-changing book, Keith Frayn, an international expert in human metabolism and nutrition, dispels common misconceptions about human metabolism, explaining in everyday language the important metabolic processes that underlie all aspects of our daily lives. Illustrated throughout with clear diagrams of metabolic processes, Frayn describes the communication systems that enable our different organs and tissues to cooperate, for instance in providing fuel to our muscles when we exercise, and in preserving our tissues during fasting. He explores the impressive adaptability of human metabolism and discusses the metabolic disorders that can arise when metabolism 'goes wrong'. For anyone sceptical of information about diet and lifestyle, this concise book guides the reader through what metabolism really involves.
Prosecuting Poverty, Criminalizing Care
Authors: Bach Wendy A.
Published: August 2022

At the height of the opiate epidemic, Tennessee lawmakers made it a crime for a pregnant woman to transmit narcotics to a fetus. They promised that charging new mothers with this crime would help them receive the treatment and support they often desperately need. In Prosecuting Poverty, Criminalizing Care, Wendy Bach describes the law's actual effect through meticulous examination of the cases of 120 women who were prosecuted for this crime. Drawing on quantitative and qualitative data, Bach demonstrates that both prosecuting 'fetal assault', and institutionalizing the all-too-common idea that criminalization is a road to care, lead at best to clinically dangerous and corrupt treatment, and at worst, and far more often, to an insidious smokescreen obscuring harsh punishment. Urgent, instructive, and humane, this retelling demands we stop criminalizing care and instead move towards robust and respectful systems that meet the real needs of families in poor communities.
Conducting a pediatric randomized clinical trial during a pandemic: A shift to virtual procedures
Authors: Roberts James R. , Chervinskiy Sheva K. , McCulloh Russell , Snowden Jessica , Darden Paul M. , Phan Thao-Ly T. , Dawley Erin , Reynolds Victoria , Lim Crystal S. , Pyles Lee , Hubberd DeAnn , Baldner Jaime , Lawrence Lora , Davis Ann M.
Published: August 2022

Background/Objective:

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, our research group initiated a pediatric practice-based randomized trial for the treatment of childhood obesity in rural communities. Approximately 6 weeks into the originally planned 10-week enrollment period, the trial was forced to pause all study activity due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This pause necessitated a substantial revision in recruitment, enrollment, and other study methods in order to complete the trial using virtual procedures. This descriptive paper outlines methods used to recruit, enroll, and manage clinical trial participants with technology to obtain informed consent, obtain height and weight measurements by video, and maintain participant engagement throughout the duration of the trial.

Methods:

The study team reviewed the IRB records, protocol team meeting minutes and records, and surveyed the site teams to document the impact of the COVID-19 shift to virtual procedures on the study. The IRB approved study changes allowed for flexibility between clinical sites given variations in site resources, which was key to success of the implementation.

Results:

All study sites faced a variety of logistical challenges unique to their location yet successfully recruited the required number of patients for the trial. Ultimately, virtual procedures enhanced our ability to establish relationships with participants who were previously beyond our reach, but presented several challenges and required additional resources.

Conclusion:

Lessons learned from this study can assist other study groups in navigating challenges, especially when recruiting and implementing studies with rural and underserved populations or during challenging events like the pandemic.
The First Challenge to Canada’s Supply Management System under CUSMA: Tweaking the Supply Management System One Dispute at a Time
Authors: BIUKOVIC LJILJANA
Published: August 2022

In 2021, the United States challenged Canadian dairy import tariff rate quotas (TRQs) before the first state-to-state arbitration panel under Chapter 31 of the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA). The panel held that the method of allocation of TRQs limited the US dairy industry’s access to the Canadian market and therefore violated CUSMA provisions. However, the panel also acknowledged that the Canadian supply management system for dairy products is a unique regulatory framework for production control, pricing mechanisms, and import control. This article explores the case as a test of the functioning of the improved CUSMA dispute settlement process and of Canada’s ability to protect its supply management system for dairy products from renewed pressure coming from its most important trade partner.
The evolution of coherent vortical structures in increasingly turbulent stratified shear layers
Authors: Jiang Xianyang , Lefauve Adrien , Dalziel Stuart B. , Linden P.F.
Published: August 2022

We study the morphology of Eulerian vortical structures and their interaction with density interfaces in increasingly turbulent stably stratified shear layers. We analyse the three-dimensional, simultaneous velocity and density fields obtained in the stratified inclined duct laboratory experiment (SID). We track, across 15 datasets, the evolution of coherent structures from pre-turbulent Holmboe waves, through intermittent turbulence, to full turbulence and mixing. We use the rortex–shear decomposition of the local vorticity vectors into a rortex vector capturing rigid-body rotation and a shear vector. We describe the morphology of ubiquitous hairpin-like vortical structures (revealed by the rortex), similar to those commonly observed in boundary-layer turbulence. These are born as relatively weak vortices around the strong three-dimensional shearing structures of confined Holmboe waves, and gradually strengthen and deform under increasing turbulence, transforming into pairs of upward- and downward-pointing hairpins propagating in opposite directions on the top and bottom edge of the shear layer. The pair of legs for each hairpin are counter-rotating and entrain fluid laterally and vertically, whereas their arched-up ‘heads’, which are transverse vortices, entrain fluid vertically. We then elucidate how this large-scale vortex morphology stirs and mixes the density field. Essentially, vortices located at the sharp density interface on either edge of the mixing layer (mostly hairpin heads) engulf blobs of unmixed fluid into the mixing layer, whereas vortices inside the mixing layer (mostly hairpin legs) further stir it, generating strong, small-scale shear, enhancing mixing. These findings provide new insights into the role of turbulent coherent structures in shear-driven stratified mixing.