bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
12.3: Multi‐phase and multi‐pitch twist structure liquid crystals with polymer template
Authors: Huang Tengfei , Lu Jiangang
Published: February 2021

The template effect on stability of multi‐phase twist structure liquid crystals was investigated. If a cholesteric liquid crystal (CLC) of different pitch was refilled into CLC template, the refilling CLC and intrinsic CLC can co‐exist in the template. If a blue phase liquid crystal (BPLC) of different pitch was refilled into the CLC template, only the intrinsic CLC appeared. And if a CLC of different pitch was refilled into BPLC template, both the refilling CLC and intrinsic BPLC appeared in the template. However, if a BPLC of different pitch was refilled into the BPLC template, only the intrinsic BPLC appeared. The multi‐phase and multi‐pitch twist structure LC device can be fabricated by the templating process which shows great potential applications in optical communication, display, and LC lasing.
35.1: A novel in‐situ interactive 3D floating autostereoscopic display system with aerial imaging plate
Authors: Zhang Nan , Huang Tianqi , Zhang Xinran , Liao Hongen
Published: February 2021

Background Augmented reality technology provides intuitive three‐dimensional (3D) visualization and interaction. Remarkably, the development has drawn increasing attention from the medical, industrial, and commercial communities in recent years. In the clinic or other fields, 3D displays often need to ensure highly‐friendly interaction for multiple users.

Methods In this study, we proposed a floating interactive naked‐eye 3D display system that can meet the observation of multiple users and realize in‐situ interaction with floating models. The 3D light‐field generated by autostereoscopic is project into mid‐air by an aerial imaging plate. To address the symmetrical flipping of viewpoints caused by aerial imaging plate, a light‐field symmetrical multi‐viewpoint rendering algorithm based on multi‐view rendering method was proposed. Leap Motion was utilized as a gesture recognition device to capture user's in‐situ interact gesture on floating 3D model.

Results The proposed system implemented a floating 3D display with medium‐free imaging and no‐wear burden. The floating model can be highly controlled by users in four developed gestures including anatomical markers, model rotation, translation, and zoom, with a refresh rate of 30 frames per second (render a virtual model with 111888 faces).

Conclusions We proposed a mid‐air autostereoscopic 3D display system and a light‐field symmetrical multi‐viewpoint rendering algorithm. It has considerable application prospects in anatomy education, marking points in surgery planning, and displaying 3D objects in museums, shopping mall and others.
41.1: Invited Paper: [Invited] Textile‐OLEDs with high wearing comfort used for fashion displays and phototherapy applications
Authors: Choi Seungyeop , Na Yunha , Lee Junwoo , Choi Kyung Cheol
Published: February 2021

Clothing‐type, textile‐based OLEDs and their bio‐medical application have been investigated. Textile‐based OLEDs have shown wide applicability and washability as well as high flexibility for a wearing textile displays. Furthermore, a novel phototherapy for neonatal jaundice by using textile‐OLEDs was proposed in this work.
46.2: Invited Paper: High‐resolution GaN microdisplays and solution for full‐color devices for AR/MR applications
Authors: Templier François
Published: February 2021

Two challenges for GaN microdisplay for AR/MR application are discussed: small pixel‐pitch and color. We show that several approaches can be used to address different pixel‐pitch ranges. Color conversion provides high color saturation. It can be patterned, but there is still a long way to achieve very small pixel pitches needed for AR/MR applications. RGB native color will be the grail. We show that both semi polar and InGaNOS approaches are very promising solutions for full‐color GaN microdisplays for AR/MR applications.
47.2: Invited Paper: 31 inch Rollable OLED Display Fabricated by Inkjet Printing Technology
Authors: Gao Zhuo , Yu Lei , Li Zhe , Shi Wen , Li Chu , Yuan Li ge , Sun Xianwen , Fu Dong
Published: February 2021

A 31 inch full high definition (FHD, 1920*1080) printed rollable OLED display is fabricated by ink‐jet printing technology and laser lift‐off technology. It is a self‐emitting and top emitting display with oxide TFT backplane. The ink‐jet printing process is optimized by bank pre‐treatment, nozzle auto‐screening and drying process tuning to implement mura‐free display. The prototype rollable TV shows good display quality with a high degree of uniformity and smoothly rollability.
47.3: Invited Paper: Latest Development of Soluble OLED Material for Printed Display
Authors: Fukushima Daisuke , Tanaka Shinya , Kakimoto Hidenobu , Yamada Takeshi
Published: February 2021

We present the latest status of high performance OLED material development based on conjugated polymer technologies. The material which shows high performance is very suitable for printed OLED panel fabrication. New emitter development has realized better outcoupling on top‐emission device and wider color gamut. Key parameters have been identified to achieve high performance of ink jet printed (IJP) device. New materials for higher resolution panel fabrication have been developed and they provide wider application of IJP devices.
P‐12.4: Investigation of Micro‐lens to improve the Efficiency of Micro‐LED Display System
Authors: Wocheng Rong , Bingqing Luo , Zhaojun Liu
Published: February 2021

According to the measurement, the luminescence of the micro‐LED has great divergence. The luminous intensity is uniform when less than 45 degrees, but there is still strong intensity at more than 60 degrees. The large scattering angle makes the light easily crosstalk with the adjacent luminous units, which affects the display effect and reduces the efficiency. In this paper, a variety of surface microstructures are introduced, and the corresponding micro‐lens is designed according to the luminescence characteristics of the micro‐LED. The internal total reflection is suppressed by adjusting the optical system, and the light is collimated. The luminous efficiency of the micro‐LED can improve more than 15% and the divergence angle is reduced, which is helpful to improve the display effect of the micro‐LED. And it is also beneficial to the application of backlight and optical communication.
P‐12.10: Study on Flip‐Chip Structure of GaN‐Based Micro‐LED
Authors: Feng Yang , Liu Chuanbiao , Cheng Zhuo , Liu Zhaojun
Published: February 2021

In this study, we introduce the development of LED flip‐chip structure, compare the characteristics. Light‐emitting efficiency and integration methods of flip‐chip structure and horizontal structure, and explain the characteristics of flip‐chip structure. The final conclusion shows that the flip‐chip structure is most suitable for Micro‐LED.
Divergent Syntheses of Pumiliotoxin‐Type Poison‐Frog Alkaloids
Authors: Okada Takuya , Ozaki Takanori , Yamamoto Taiga , Kasahara Hirofumi , Kawasaki Masashi , Toyooka Naoki
Published: February 2021

Over 800 lipophilic alkaloids have been detected from the skin extracts of poison frogs. Pumiliotoxins (PTXs) are a large class of poison‐frog alkaloids, and various congeners of PTXs have been detected to date. However, no exhaustive and effective syntheses of PTXs and their congeners have been reported. Herein, we describe the divergent syntheses of PTX 209F, hPTX 223G, 8‐deoxy‐PTX 193H, 9‐deoxy‐hPTX 207O, 8‐desmethyl‐PTX 195, and 9‐desmethyl‐hPTX 209H from the common chiral building block (2R,3S)‐ethyl 1‐allyl‐3‐hydroxy‐6‐oxopiperidine‐2‐carboxylate (−)‐1.
Binary and Ternary Colloidal Cu‐Sn‐Te Nanocrystals for Thermoelectric Thin Films
Authors: Yin Deqiang , Dun Chaochao , Zhang Huisheng , Fu Zheng , Gao Xiang , Wang Xianliang , Singh David J. , Carroll David L. , Liu Yang , Swihart Mark T.
Published: February 2021

Recent advances in copper chalcogenide‐based nanocrystals (NCs), copper sulfide, and copper selenide derived nanostructures, have drawn considerable attention. However, reports of crystal phase and shape engineering of binary or ternary copper telluride NCs remain rare. Here, a colloidal hot‐injection approach for producing binary copper/tin telluride, and ternary copper tin telluride NCs with controllable compositions, crystal structures, and morphologies is reported. The crystal phase and growth behavior of these tellurides are systematically studied from both experimental and theoretical perspectives. The morphology of Cu1.29Te NCs is modified from 1D nanorods with different aspect ratios to 2D nanosheets and 3D nanocubes, by controlling the preferential growth of specific crystalline facets. A controllable phase transition from Cu1.29Te to Cu1.43Te NCs is also demonstrated. The latter can be further converted into Cu2SnTe3 and SnTe through Sn incorporation. Temperature dependent thermoelectric properties of metal (Cu and Sn) telluride nanostructure thin films are also studied, including Cu1.29Te, Cu1.43Te, Cu2SnTe3, and SnTe. Cu2SnTe3 is a low carrier density semimetal with compensating electron and hole Fermi surface pockets. The engineering of crystal phase and morphology control of colloidal copper tin telluride NCs opens a path to explore and design new classes of copper telluride‐based nanomaterials for thermoelectrics and other applications.
Research on Steady‐State Thermal Behavior ofSF6/N2andCF3I/N2Mixtures in High Voltage Gas‐Insulated Lines (GIL)
Authors: Jianying Zhong , Zhijun Wang , Bo Zhang , Yongqi Yao , Yapei Liu
Published: February 2021

Gas‐insulated lines (GIL) are widely used due to their many advantages in power plants and substations. The security and reliability of GIL is achieved by continues testing and monitoring. The main fault in the GIL compartments is overheating, which is rarely to occur, nonetheless, it cannot be ignored. In the present study, GIL steady‐state thermal behavior was investigated. For this reason, a multiphysics finite element model (FEM) was built to analyze the magneto‐hydro‐thermal characteristics of the GIL insulation gas. The simulation coupling includes the electromagnetic field, flow field and thermal heat transfer field. SF6/N2and CF3I/N2mixtures were studied and the influence of different gas properties on the magnetic flux density, heat distribution and flow velocity had been investigated. The results were compared to an experimental setup to validate the model calculations. Temperature rise tests have been conducted on the GIL inner and outer shell. The measurements were in good agreement with the simulation results. Finally, the presented work is also to serve as a good reference in future design and optimization of GIL structure. © 2021 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Electromagnetic‐Thermal Characteristics Analysis of Dry‐Type Core Reactor and Optimization Design Based on the Particle Swarm Algorithm
Authors: Yuan Fating , Lv Kai , Qin Shihong , Tang Bo , Yang Shouwei , Han Shanshan , Ding Can
Published: February 2021

In this paper, a fluid‐thermal coupled finite element model is established based on the design parameters of dry‐type core reactor, the detailed temperature distribution results are given, and the heat transfer process of the layer coils was analyzed. Meanwhile, the electromagnetic characteristics of core reactor have been analyzed, it shows that the structure parameters adjustment of layer coils have little effect on the inductance of reactor. Taking the metal conductor usage of coils as the optimization object, the heat dissipation process between the layer coils and air ducts is equivalent to the vertical pipe, the calculation method of temperature rise is given, and the thermal efficiency optimization method of dry‐type core reactor is proposed based on the particle swarm optimization algorithm, which can obtain the optimal structure parameters of coils. According to the optimization design results, the metal conductor usage of coils is only 80% compared with the initial parameters, and the correctness is verified by the simulation results. Thus, the optimization method can significantly improve the thermal efficiency and reduce the metal conductor usage of core reactor. © 2021 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Characteristics ofAerococcus viridansisolated from porcine fetuses in Korean farms
Authors: Nguyen Van Giap , Kim Cheong Ung , Do Hai‐Quynh , Shin Sook , Jang Keum Chan , Park Yong Ho , Park Bong Kyun , Chung Hee Chun
Published: February 2021

Swine abortion caused by viruses as well as bacteria has caused many economic losses in domestic farms over the years; however, bacterial abortion has not yet been studied in Korea. Several bacterial species were isolated from aborted fetuses (n = 103) for which the cause of death was not viral abortion. Among them, we focused onAerococcus viridans, which had the highest positive rate within three provinces (Gangwon, Jeonnam and Gyeongnam). A total of 16 isolates were identified asA. viridansby matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization‐time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOF MS), and 13 were characterized by both antibiotic resistance and 16S rRNA gene analysis. Based on antibiotic susceptibility testing result, eight antimicrobials could not effectively eliminate the present isolation (more than 40% of isolates can resist these antibiotics), while all except two strains were susceptible to trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole. Molecular analysis indicated genetic variation among these strains. This study is the first report detectingA. viridansfrom aborted fetuses in Korean domestic farms.
The effectiveness of the current use of forensic DNA in criminal investigations in England and Wales
Authors: Amankwaa Aaron Opoku , McCartney Carole
Published: February 2021

In this article, we consider the effectiveness of DNA analysis in criminal investigations. Through this investigative tool, unknown victims, suspects, and serial offenders have been identified. At the same time, wrongly charged and convicted individuals have been eliminated from investigations or released from custody following DNA testing. We know forensic DNA analysis is powerful in individual cases/certain crime types, but its aggregate contribution to criminal detections is low and questioned. There is little evidence to demonstrate its actual contribution. We examined the possible reasons for the low impact of forensic DNA, with some recommendations that may further maximize its utility. Available evidence demonstrates that there remains a need to ensure value for money in continued investment in forensic DNA analysis. An evaluation of trends in criminal activities and detection opportunities utilizing DNA evidence may help in identifying specific areas where DNA is most useful, and resources can be focused. Additionally, the potential of integrated multi‐biometric analysis/systems and other evidence types should be explored.

This article is categorized under:

Forensic Biology > DNA Databases and Biometrics

Forensic Biology > Forensic DNA Technologies

Jurisprudence and Regulatory Oversight > Expert Evidence and Narrative
Ripples in spacetime from broken supersymmetry
Authors: Craig Nathaniel , Levi Noam , Mariotti Alberto , Redigolo Diego
Published: February 2021

Abstract

We initiate the study of gravitational wave (GW) signals from first-order phase transitions in supersymmetry-breaking hidden sectors. Such phase transitions often occur along a pseudo-flat direction universally related to supersymmetry (SUSY) breaking in hidden sectors that spontaneously breakR-symmetry. The potential along this pseudo-flat direction imbues the phase transition with a number of novel properties, including a nucleation temperature well below the scale of heavy states (such that the temperature dependence is captured by the low-temperature expansion) and significant friction induced by the same heavy states as they pass through bubble walls. In low-energy SUSY-breaking hidden sectors, the frequency of the GW signal arising from such a phase transition is guaranteed to lie within the reach of future interferometers given existing cosmological constraints on the gravitino abundance. Once a mediation scheme is specified, the frequency of the GW peak correlates with the superpartner spectrum. Current bounds on supersymmetry are compatible with GW signals at future interferometers, while the observation of a GW signal from a SUSY-breaking hidden sector would imply superpartners within reach of future colliders.
DC-link sensorless control strategy for grid-connected PV systems
Authors: Ahmed Mostafa , Abdelrahem Mohamed , Farhan Ahmed , Harbi Ibrahim , Kennel Ralph
Published: February 2021

Sensorless strategies become very popular in modern control techniques because they increase the system reliability. Besides, they can be used as back-up control in case of sensor failure. In this paper, a DC-link sensorless control approach is developed, which is suited for grid-connected PV systems. The studied system is a two-stage PV scheme, where the DC–DC stage (boost converter) is controlled using an adaptive step-size perturb and observe (P&O) method. Further, the inverter control is accomplished by voltage oriented control (VOC). Generally, the VOC is implemented with two cascaded control loops, namely an outer voltage loop and an inner current loop. However, in this work, the outer loop is avoided and the reference current is generated using a losses model for the system. The losses model accounts for the most significant losses in the PV system. Moreover, particle swarm optimization (PSO) is utilized to compensate for the unmodeled losses. The PSO is executed offline for the purpose of calculation burden reduction. The proposed approach simplifies the cascaded VOC strategy and eliminates the DC-link voltage sensor, which in turn decreases the cost of the system. Finally, the proposed technique is compared with the conventional one at different atmospheric conditions and validated using MATLAB simulation results.
A tandem giant magnetoresistance assay for one-shot quantification of clinically relevant concentrations of N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide in human blood
Authors: Meng Fanda , Huo Weisong , Lian Jie , Zhang Lei , Shi Xizeng , Jesorka Aldo , Gao Yunhua
Published: February 2021

We report a microfluidic sandwich immunoassay constructed around a dual-giant magnetoresistance (GMR) sensor array to quantify the heart failure biomarker NT-proBNP in human plasma at the clinically relevant concentration levels between 15 pg/mL and 40 ng/mL. The broad dynamic range was achieved by differential coating of two identical GMR sensors operated in tandem, and combining two standard curves. The detection limit was determined as 5 pg/mL. The assay, involving 53 plasma samples from patients with different cardiovascular diseases, was validated against the Roche Cobas e411 analyzer. The salient features of this system are its wide concentration range, low detection limit, small sample volume requirement (50 μL), and the need for a short measurement time of 15 min, making it a prospective candidate for practical use in point of care analysis.
Single-Valued Integration and Superstring Amplitudes in Genus Zero
Authors: Brown Francis , Dupont Clément
Published: February 2021

We study open and closed string amplitudes at tree-level in string perturbation theory using the methods of single-valued integration which were developed in the prequel to this paper (Brown and Dupont in Single-valued integration and double copy, 2020). Using dihedral coordinates on the moduli spaces of curves of genus zero with marked points, we define a canonical regularisation of both open and closed string perturbation amplitudes at tree level, and deduce that they admit a Laurent expansion in Mandelstam variables whose coefficients are multiple zeta values (resp. single-valued multiple zeta values). Furthermore, we prove the existence of a motivic Laurent expansion whose image under the period map is the open string expansion, and whose image under the single-valued period map is the closed string expansion. This proves the recent conjecture of Stieberger that closed string amplitudes are the single-valued projections of (motivic lifts of) open string amplitudes. Finally, applying a variant of the single-valued formalism for cohomology with coefficients yields the KLT formula expressing closed string amplitudes as quadratic expressions in open string amplitudes.
Interplay of stromal tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, normal colonic mucosa, cancer-associated fibroblasts, clinicopathological data and the immunoregulatory molecules of patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer
Authors: Zadka Łukasz , Chabowski Mariusz , Grybowski Damian , Piotrowska Aleksandra , Dzięgiel Piotr
Published: February 2021

A total of 94 patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) were included in this study. Lymphocytic infiltration of CD45+ cells in the normal colon was more pronounced than that in the paired tumor stroma (p = 0.0008). The mean immunoscore of CD45+TILs was decreased in CRC compared with the controls (p = 0.0010). The percentage of CD3+ cells was higher in stage II than in stage IV (p = 0.0218) and showed a negative correlation with the TNM classification (r = -0.2867, p = 0.0109). The number of stromal CD4+TILs was higher in stage I than in stage III (p = 0.0116) and IV (p = 0.0104), and there was a negative correlation between this number and the stage (r = -0.3708, p = 0.0008). There was a positive correlation between the Ki-67 and CD45+ (r = 0.2468, p = 0.0294), CD3+ (r = 0.3822, p = 0.0006), and CD4+ cells (r = 0.5465, p < 0.0001). The levels of cancer-associated fibroblast (CAF) markers such as α-SMA, thrombin and fibronectin were significantly higher in CRC than in normal colonic mucosa. The immunohistochemical expression of α-SMA was negatively correlated with TILs, while fibronectin showed positive coexpression. A higher number of cells expressing IL-2Rα, PD-L1, CD33 and CD14 were found in colorectal adenocarcinomas than in controls. The number of CD14+ cells was also dependent on the TNM stage (p = 0.0444) and tumor budding (p = 0.0324). These findings suggest a suppressive impact of CRC on the adaptive immune response and emphasize the importance of CAFs in regulating tumor immunity.
Polarized Classification Tree Models: Theory and Computational Aspects
Authors: Ballante Elena , Galvani Marta , Uberti Pierpaolo , Figini Silvia
Published: February 2021

In this paper, a new approach in classification models, called Polarized Classification Tree model, is introduced. From a methodological perspective, a new index of polarization to measure the goodness of splits in the growth of a classification tree is proposed. The new introduced measure tackles weaknesses of the classical ones used in classification trees (Gini and Information Gain), because it does not only measure the impurity but it also reflects the distribution of each covariate in the node, i.e., employing more discriminating covariates to split the data at each node. From a computational prospective, a new algorithm is proposed and implemented employing the new proposed measure in the growth of a tree. In order to show how our proposal works, a simulation exercise has been carried out. The results obtained in the simulation framework suggest that our proposal significantly outperforms impurity measures commonly adopted in classification tree modeling. Moreover, the empirical evidence on real data shows that Polarized Classification Tree models are competitive and sometimes better with respect to classical classification tree models.
CT of the medial clavicular epiphysis for forensic age estimation: hands up?
Authors: Tozakidou Magdalini , Meister Rieke L. , Well Lennart , Petersen Kay U. , Schindera Sebastian , Jopp-van Well Eilin , Püschel Klaus , Herrmann Jochen
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The aim of this study was to assess the impact of arm position in computed tomography (CT) of the clavicle performed for forensic age estimation on clavicular position, image noise, and radiation dose.

Methods and materials

Forty-seven CT scans of the medial clavicular epiphysis performed for forensic age estimation were conducted with either hands and arms held upwards (CTHU, 28 persons) or positioned at the body (CTHD, 19 persons). Presets were identical for both positions (70 mAs/140 kVp; Brilliance iCT, Philips). Each CT scan was reconstructed with an iterative algorithm (i-Dose 4) and evaluated at the middle of the sternoclavicular joint. Clavicular angle was measured on a.p. topograms in relation to a horizontal line. Quantitative image noise was measured in air at the level of medial clavicular epiphysis. Effective dose and scan length were recorded.

Results

Hands-up position compared with hands-down position resulted in a lower lateral body diameter (CTHU 41.1 ± 3.6 cm vs. CTHD 44.6 ± 3.1 cm; P = 0.03), a reduced quantitative image noise (CTHU: 39.5 ± 9.2; CTHD: 46.2 ± 8.3; P = 0.02), and lower CTDIvol (5.1 ± 1.4 mGy vs. 6.7 ± 1.8 mGy; P = 0.001). Scan length was longer in patients examined with hands up (HU: 8.5 ± 3.4 cm; HD: 6.2 ± 2.1 cm; P = 0.006). Mean effective dose for CTHU was 0.79 ± 0.32 mSv compared with 0.95 ± 0.38 mSv in CTHD (P = 0.12). Clavicular angle was 17° ± 6° in patients with hands down and 32° ± 7° in patients with hands up (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

By elevated arm positioning, the image quality of clavicular CT scans can be improved while maintaining radiation dose compared with hands down. Clavicular position differs according to the hand position. Thus, positioning patients with elevated hands is advisable for forensic clavicular CT examinations, but multiplanar CT reconstructions should be adjusted to clavicular position and scan length should be reduced to a minimum.
Human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes, 3D cardiac structures, and heart-on-a-chip as tools for drug research
Authors: Andrysiak Kalina , Stępniewski Jacek , Dulak Józef
Published: February 2021

Development of new drugs is of high interest for the field of cardiac and cardiovascular diseases, which are a dominant cause of death worldwide. Before being allowed to be used and distributed, every new potentially therapeutic compound must be strictly validated during preclinical and clinical trials. The preclinical studies usually involve the in vitro and in vivo evaluation. Due to the increasing reporting of discrepancy in drug effects in animal and humans and the requirement to reduce the number of animals used in research, improvement of in vitro models based on human cells is indispensable. Primary cardiac cells are difficult to access and maintain in cell culture for extensive experiments; therefore, the human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CMs) became an excellent alternative. This technology enables a production of high number of patient- and disease-specific cardiomyocytes and other cardiac cell types for a large-scale research. The drug effects can be extensively evaluated in the context of electrophysiological responses with a use of well-established tools, such as multielectrode array (MEA), patch clamp, or calcium ion oscillation measurements. Cardiotoxicity, which is a common reason for withdrawing drugs from marketing or rejection at final stages of clinical trials, can be easily verified with a use of hiPSC-CM model providing a prediction of human-specific responses and higher safety of clinical trials involving patient cohort. Abovementioned studies can be performed using two-dimensional cell culture providing a high-throughput and relatively lower costs. On the other hand, more complex structures, such as engineered heart tissue, organoids, or spheroids, frequently applied as co-culture systems, represent more physiological conditions and higher maturation rate of hiPSC-derived cells. Furthermore, heart-on-a-chip technology has recently become an increasingly popular tool, as it implements controllable culture conditions, application of various stimulations and continuous parameters read-out. This paper is an overview of possible use of cardiomyocytes and other cardiac cell types derived from hiPSC as in vitro models of heart in drug research area prepared on the basis of latest scientific reports and providing thorough discussion regarding their advantages and limitations.
An evolutionary approach to the vehicle route planning in e-waste mobile collection on demand
Authors: Szwarc Krzysztof , Nowakowski Piotr , Boryczka Urszula
Published: February 2021

The article discusses the utilitarian problem of the mobile collection of waste electrical and electronic equipment. Due to its $$\mathcal {NP}$$
NP
-hard nature, implies the application of approximate methods to discover suboptimal solutions in an acceptable time. The paper presents the proposal of a novel method of designing the Evolutionary and Memetic Algorithms, which determine favorable route plans. The recommended methods are determined using quality evaluation indicators for the techniques applied herein, subject to the limits characterizing the given company. The proposed Memetic Algorithm with Tabu Search provides much better results than the metaheuristics described in the available literature.
A probabilistic model for discretionary lane change proposals in highway driving situations
Authors: Schmidt Manuel , Wissing Christian , Nattermann Till , Bertram Torsten
Published: February 2021

This contribution presents a novel probabilistic approach for the generation of discretionary lane change proposals with a focus on highway driving situations. The developed model is based on the quantification of the utility of driving lanes. It generates a lane change proposal if the current driving lane is unsatisfactory in the sense that the desired velocity of the automated vehicle is undershot because of a slow preceding vehicle. A driving simulator study was conducted to create a dataset for the optimization of the model parameters. The optimization goal is to accurately match the timings of the lane change intentions of all participants. Finally, the applicability of the model is shown on real data from a test vehicle.
Recommendations on postoperative strain and physical labor after abdominal and hernia surgery: an expert survey of attendants of the 41st EHS Annual International Congress of the European Hernia Society
Authors: Schaaf S. , Willms A. , Schwab R. , Güsgen C.
Published: February 2021

Background

There are no valid recommendations or reliable guidelines available to guide patients how long they should refrain from lifting weights or returning to heavy physical labor after abdominal or hernia surgery. Recent studies found that surgeons’ recommendations not to be evidence-based and might be too restrictive considering data on fascial healing and incisional hernia development. It is likely that this impairs the patient’s quality of life and leads to remarkable socio-economic costs. Hence, we conducted this survey to gather international expert’s opinions on this topic.

Materials and methods

At the 41st Annual International Congress of the EHS, attending international experts were asked to complete a questionnaire concerning recommendations on given proposals for postoperative refrain from heavy work or lifting after abdominal surgery and also after hernia repairs.

Results

In total, 127 experts took part in the survey. 83.9% were consultants with a mean experience since specialization of more than 11 years. Two weeks of no heavy physical strain after laparoscopic surgery were considered sufficient by more than 50% of the participants. For laparotomy, more than 50% rated 4 weeks appropriate. For mesh-augmented sublay and IPOM repair of ventral or incisional hernias, more than 50% rated 4 weeks of rest appropriate. For complex hernia repair, 37% rated 4 weeks reasonable. Two weeks after, groin hernia surgery was considered sufficient by more than 50% of the participants.

Conclusion

Following groin hernia repair (Lichtenstein/endoscopic technique) and laparoscopic operation, the majority agreed on the proposal of 2 weeks refraining from physical strain. Four weeks of no physical strain were considered appropriate by a majority after laparotomy and open incisional hernia repair. However, the results showed substantial variation in the ratings, which indicates uncertainty even in this selected cohort of hernia surgery experts and emphasizes the need for further scientific evaluation. This is particularly remarkable, because a lack of evidence that early postoperative strain leads to higher incisional hernia rates.

Trial registration

Number DRKS00023887.
Correction to: Mutants of Lotus japonicus deficient in flavonoid biosynthesis
Authors: Aoki Toshio , Kawaguchi Masayoshi , Imaizumi-Anraku Haruko , Akao Shoichiro , Ayabe Shin-ichi , Akashi Tomoyoshi
Published: February 2021

The original article has been updated.
Effect of essential oils against acaricide‐susceptible and acaricide-resistant Rhipicephalus ticks
Authors: Luns Darcy Adriann Rebonato , Martins Renato , Pombal Sofia , Rodilla Jesus M. Lopez , Githaka Naftaly W. , Vaz Itabajara da Silva , Logullo Carlos
Published: February 2021

The indiscriminate use of acaricides is a problem worldwide and has increased the selection of acaricide-resistant tick populations. The goal of this study was to evaluate the acaricide effects of two essential oils (from Schinus molle and Bulnesia sarmientoi) using the larval immersion test on three Rhipicephalus tick species. Rhipicephalus evertsi, Rhipicephalus appendiculatus and Rhipicephalus pulchelus ticks collected in Kenya, without history of acaricide exposure, were tested, as well as individuals from two populations of Rhipicephalus microplus (with or without history of acaricide exposure), for comparison. The sample most resistant to the treatments was a population of R. microplus with previous acaricide exposure, whereas the least tolerant sample was a strain of the same species that never had contact with acaricides (Porto Alegre strain). Interestingly, the field tick samples without previous acaricide exposure responded to essential oils with a mortality profile resembling that observed in the acaricide-resistant R. microplus field population, and not the susceptible Porto Alegre strain. The essential oil of B. sarmientoi and its two components tested (guaiol and bulnesol) caused the highest mortality rates in the tested species and are potential molecules for future studies on control methods against these species.
Work Demands and Work Resources: Testing a Model of Factors Predicting Turnover Intentions in Early Childhood Education
Authors: Heilala C. , Kalland M. , Lundkvist M. , Forsius M. , Vincze L. , Santavirta N.
Published: February 2021

We studied the working conditions in Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC). The aim was to explore how ECEC staff experience work demands and resources and how these relate to turnover intentions. The research was based on a modified Job Demands-Resources model (Bakker and Demerouti in J Manage Psychol 22(3):309-328, 2007) according to which job strain is influenced by both job demands and resources. The sample was identified through trade union registers and the data were collected via a survey (N = 538). The findings show a rather high proportion of turnover intentions. Both general workload and emotional workload were related to turnover intentions, and they were mediated by participation. However, leadership satisfaction did not mediate the relationship between workload and turnover intentions. This study contributes to the knowledge on risk factors related to intentions to leave the ECEC profession in the Finnish as well as the international context. It is urgent to know more about factors related to turnover because a high rate undermines trust in the ECEC sector and negatively impacts staff and children.
How to Use Online Tools to Generate New Hypotheses for Mammary Gland Biology Research: A Case Study for Wnt7b
Authors: van de Grift Yorick Bernardus Cornelis , Heijmans Nika , van Amerongen Renée
Published: February 2021

An increasing number of ‘-omics’ datasets, generated by labs all across the world, are becoming available. They contain a wealth of data that are largely unexplored. Not every scientist, however, will have access to the required resources and expertise to analyze such data from scratch. Fortunately, a growing number of investigators is dedicating their time and effort to the development of user friendly, online applications that allow researchers to use and investigate these datasets. Here, we will illustrate the usefulness of such an approach. Using regulation ofWnt7bexpression as an example, we will highlight a selection of accessible tools and resources that are available to researchers in the area of mammary gland biology. We show how they can be used for in silico analyses of gene regulatory mechanisms, resulting in new hypotheses and providing leads for experimental follow up. We also call out to the mammary gland community to join forces in a coordinated effort to generate and share additional tissue-specific ‘-omics’ datasets and thereby expand the in silico toolbox.
Supersymmetric Cluster Expansions and Applications to Random Schrödinger Operators
Authors: Fresta Luca
Published: February 2021

We study discrete random Schrödinger operators via the supersymmetric formalism. We develop a cluster expansion that converges at both strong and weak disorder. We prove the exponential decay of the disorder-averaged Green’s function and the smoothness of the local density of states either at weak disorder and at energies in proximity of the unperturbed spectrum or at strong disorder and at any energy. As an application, we establish Lifshitz-tail-type estimates for the local density of states and thus localization at weak disorder.
A Uniform Series of Low-Latitude Coronal Holes in 1973–2018
Authors: Hamada A. , Asikainen T. , Mursula K.
Published: February 2021

Coronal holes (CHs) are regions in the solar corona characterized by plasma density lower than in the surrounding quiet Sun. Therefore they appear dark in images of the solar atmosphere made, e.g., in extreme ultraviolet (EUV). Identifying CHs on solar images is difficult since CH boundaries are not sharp, but typically obscured by magnetic structures of surrounding active regions. Moreover, the areas, shapes, and intensities of CHs appear differently in different wavelengths. Coronal holes have been identified both visually by experienced observers and, more recently, by automated detection methods using different techniques. In this article, we apply a recent, robust CH identification algorithm to a new set of homogenized EUV synoptic maps based on four EUV lines measured by the Solar and Heliospheric Observatory/Extreme ultraviolet Imaging Telescope (SOHO/EIT) in 1996–2018 and the Solar Dynamics Observatory/Atmospheric Imaging Assembly (SDO/AIA) in 2010–2018 and create corresponding CH synoptic maps. We also use CHs of the hand-drawn McIntosh archive (McA) from 1973–2009 to extend the CH database to earlier times. We discuss the success of the four EUV lines to find CHs at high or low latitudes, and confirm that the combined EIT 195 Å/AIA 193 Å series applies best for both polar and low-latitude CH detection. While the polar CH detection suffers from the vantage-point limitation, the low-latitude CH areas extracted from this line correlate with the McA CH data very well. Using the simultaneous measurements between EIT and McA and EIT and AIA, we scale the different data series to the same level and form the longest uniform series of low-latitude CHs in 1973–2018. We find that, while the solar cycle maxima of low-latitude CHs in the descending phase of Solar Cycles 21–23 attain roughly similar values, the corresponding maximum during Solar Cycle 24 is reduced by a factor of two. This suggests that magnetic flux emergence is crucial for the formation of low-latitude CHs.
Investigation of Crystal Growth in Enzymatically Induced Calcite Precipitation by Micro-Fluidic Experimental Methods and Comparison with Mathematical Modeling
Authors: von Wolff Lars , Weinhardt Felix , Class Holger , Hommel Johannes , Rohde Christian
Published: February 2021

Enzymatically induced calcite precipitation (EICP) is an engineering technology that allows for targeted reduction of porosity in a porous medium by precipitation of calcium carbonates. This might be employed for reducing permeability in order to seal flow paths or for soil stabilization. This study investigates the growth of calcium-carbonate crystals in a micro-fluidic EICP setup and relies on experimental results of precipitation observed over time and under flow-through conditions in a setup of four pore bodies connected by pore throats. A phase-field approach to model the growth of crystal aggregates is presented, and the corresponding simulation results are compared to the available experimental observations. We discuss the model’s capability to reproduce the direction and volume of crystal growth. The mechanisms that dominate crystal growth are complex depending on the local flow field as well as on concentrations of solutes. We have good agreement between experimental data and model results. In particular, we observe that crystal aggregates prefer to grow in upstream flow direction and toward the center of the flow channels, where the volume growth rate is also higher due to better supply.
Parkinson’s Disease–Associated LRRK2 Interferes with Astrocyte-Mediated Alpha-Synuclein Clearance
Authors: Streubel-Gallasch Linn , Giusti Veronica , Sandre Michele , Tessari Isabella , Plotegher Nicoletta , Giusto Elena , Masato Anna , Iovino Ludovica , Battisti Ilaria , Arrigoni Giorgio , Shimshek Derya , Greggio Elisa , Tremblay Marie-Eve , Bubacco Luigi , Erlandsson Anna , Civiero Laura
Published: February 2021

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative, progressive disease without a cure. To prevent PD onset or at least limit neurodegeneration, a better understanding of the underlying cellular and molecular disease mechanisms is crucial. Mutations in the leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) gene represent one of the most common causes of familial PD. In addition, LRRK2 variants are risk factors for sporadic PD, making LRRK2 an attractive therapeutic target. Mutations in LRRK2 have been linked to impaired alpha-synuclein (α-syn) degradation in neurons. However, in which way pathogenic LRRK2 affects α-syn clearance by astrocytes, the major glial cell type of the brain, remains unclear. The impact of astrocytes on PD progression has received more attention and recent data indicate that astrocytes play a key role in α-syn-mediated pathology. In the present study, we aimed to compare the capacity of wild-type astrocytes and astrocytes carrying the PD-linked G2019S mutation in Lrrk2 to ingest and degrade fibrillary α-syn. For this purpose, we used two different astrocyte culture systems that were exposed to sonicated α-syn for 24 h and analyzed directly after the α-syn pulse or 6 days later. To elucidate the impact of LRRK2 on α-syn clearance, we performed various analyses, including complementary imaging, transmission electron microscopy, and proteomic approaches. Our results show that astrocytes carrying the G2019S mutation in Lrrk2 exhibit a decreased capacity to internalize and degrade fibrillar α-syn via the endo-lysosomal pathway. In addition, we demonstrate that the reduction of α-syn internalization in the Lrrk2 G2019S astrocytes is linked to annexin A2 (AnxA2) loss of function. Together, our findings reveal that astrocytic LRRK2 contributes to the clearance of extracellular α-syn aggregates through an AnxA2-dependent mechanism.
Glomerular podocyte dysfunction in inherited renal tubular disease
Authors: Huang Li-Min , Mao Jian-Hua
Published: February 2021

Background

Hereditary renal tubular disease can cause hypercalciuria, acid-base imbalance, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, rickets, kidney stones, etc. If these diseases are not diagnosed or treated in time, they can cause kidney damage and electrolyte disturbances, which can be detrimental to the maturation and development of the child. Glomerular involvement in renal tubular disease patients has only been considered recently.

Methods

We screened 71 papers (including experimental research, clinical research, etc.) about Dent’s disease, Gitelman syndrome, and cystinosis from PubMed, and made reference.

Results

Glomerular disease was initially underestimated among the clinical signs of renal tubular disease or was treated merely as a consequence of the tubular damage. Renal tubular diseases affect glomerular podocytes through certain mechanisms resulting in functional damage, morphological changes, and glomerular lesions.

Conclusions

This article focuses on the progress of changes in glomerular podocyte function in Dent disease, Gitelman syndrome, and cystinosis for the purposes of facilitating clinically accurate diagnosis and scientific treatment and improving prognosis.
Spatio-temporal parameters for optical probing of neuronal activity
Authors: Daria Vincent R. , Castañares Michael Lawrence , Bachor Hans-A.
Published: February 2021

The challenge to understand the complex neuronal circuit functions in the mammalian brain has brought about a revolution in light-based neurotechnologies and optogenetic tools. However, while recent seminal works have shown excellent insights on the processing of basic functions such as sensory perception, memory, and navigation, understanding more complex brain functions is still unattainable with current technologies. We are just scratching the surface, both literally and figuratively. Yet, the path towards fully understanding the brain is not totally uncertain. Recent rapid technological advancements have allowed us to analyze the processing of signals within dendritic arborizations of single neurons and within neuronal circuits. Understanding the circuit dynamics in the brain requires a good appreciation of the spatial and temporal properties of neuronal activity. Here, we assess the spatio-temporal parameters of neuronal responses and match them with suitable light-based neurotechnologies as well as photochemical and optogenetic tools. We focus on the spatial range that includes dendrites and certain brain regions (e.g., cortex and hippocampus) that constitute neuronal circuits. We also review some temporal characteristics of some proteins and ion channels responsible for certain neuronal functions. With the aid of the photochemical and optogenetic markers, we can use light to visualize the circuit dynamics of a functioning brain. The challenge to understand how the brain works continue to excite scientists as research questions begin to link macroscopic and microscopic units of brain circuits.