bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changing spectral patterns of long‐term drought propensity in Iran through reliability–resilience–vulnerability‐based Drought Management Index
Authors: Mahmoudi Peyman , Maity Rajib , Amir Jahanshahi Seyed Mahdi , Chanda Kironmala
Published: November 2021

This study aims to investigate the change in spectral patterns of droughts in Iran based on the concepts of reliability, resilience, and vulnerability (RRV) in the context of time. To achieve this goal, RRV values were first estimated based on monthly gridded soil moisture data for a period of 64 years (1955–2018) for the framework of Iran's political borders. The pairwise comparison of the values of the three variables RRV indicates a positive relationship between reliability–resilience and a negative relationship between reliability–vulnerability and resilience–vulnerability. In order to obtain the Joint Probability Distribution between reliability–vulnerability, Drought Management Index (DMI) for all the gridded points within Iran's political borders were calculated by fitting the Gaussian copula. According to this index, drought is an unfavourable climatic phenomenon that is associated with increased Vulnerability and decreased Reliability. The temporal and spatial changes of this index indicate that DMI values are always high for the south, east and centre of Iran and low for the western and northern half. To study the change in spectral patterns of droughts in Iran, the 64‐year period studied (1955–2018) was divided into two equal periods of 32 years. Then, using spectral analysis through Fourier transform method, the first three periodicities related to each period that had the highest powers were extracted. Finally, their periodicity was compared. The results indicated that the drought periodicities in the north‐west, north‐east, west, south‐west, and south of Iran have become longer, that is, their nature has been changed from shorter periodicities to longer ones. This change of nature in their first three periodicities has been sometimes from 2–10 years to 2–15 years, from 2–10 years to 3–30 years, and from 3–8 years to 8–15 years. However, the periodicities of droughts in the eastern, south‐eastern, and central Iran has changed from longer periodicities to shorter ones. It has been changed from 3–15 years to 2–6 years, from 3–15 years to 2–3 years, and from 3–30 years to 3–15 years.
Raman analysis of a shocked planetary surface analogue: Implications for habitability on Mars
Authors: McHugh Melissa , Parnell John , Hutchinson Ian B. , Lerman Hannah N. , Edwards Howell G.M. , Burchell Mark J. , Cole Mike J. , Moral Andoni , Lopez‐Reyes Guillermo , Perez Carlos , Arranz Aurelio , Veneranda Marco , Manrique José Antonio , Rull Fernando
Published: November 2021

The scientific aims of the ExoMars Raman laser spectrometer (RLS) include identifying biological signatures and evidence of mineralogical processes associated with life. The RLS instrument was optimised to identify carbonaceous material, including reduced carbon. Previous studies suggest that reduced carbon on the Martian surface (perhaps originating from past meteoric bombardment) could provide a feedstock for microbial life. Therefore, its origin, form, and thermal history could greatly inform our understanding of Mars' past habitability. Here, we report on the Raman analysis of a Nakhla meteorite analogue (containing carbonaceous material) that was subjected to shock through projectile impact to simulate the effect of meteorite impact. The characterisation was performed using the RLS Simulator, in an equivalent manner to that planned for ExoMars operations. The spectra obtained verify that the flight‐representative system can detect reduced carbon in the basaltic sample, discerning between materials that have experienced different levels of thermal processing due to impact shock levels. Furthermore, carbon signatures acquired from the cratered material show an increase in molecular disorder (and we note that this effect will be more evident at higher levels of thermal maturity). This is likely to result from intense shearing forces, suggesting that shock forces within basaltic material may produce more reactive carbon. This result has implications for potential (past) Martian habitability because impacted, reduced carbon may become more biologically accessible. The data presented suggest the RLS instrument will be able to characterise the contribution of impact shock within the landing site region, enhancing our ability to assess habitability.
Radiation‐Associated Sarcoma of the Head and Neck: Incidence, Latency, and Survival
Authors: Smith Joshua B. , Cass Lauren M. , Simpson Matthew C. , Osazuwa‐Peters Nosayaba , Ward Gregory M. , Massa Sean T.
Published: November 2021

Objectives/Hypothesis

Radiation‐associated sarcomas of the head and neck (RASHN) are known but rare sequelae after radiation for squamous cell carcinoma. The purpose of this study was to characterize RASHN, estimate the risk of RASHN in head and neck squamous cell patients after therapeutic radiation, and compare their survival to that of patients with de novo sarcomas of the head and neck (dnSHN).

Study Design

Retrospective database analysis.

Methods

RASHN and dnSHN cases were collected from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Database to identify risk factors and calculate incidence and latency. Survival was compared between RASHN and dnSHN.

Results

The risk of RASHN was 20.0 per 100,000 person‐years. The average latency period was 124.2 months (range 38–329). The cumulative incidence of RASHN at 20 years was 0.13%. Oral cavity and oropharynx primaries demonstrate increased risk. Five‐year overall survival of RASHN was 22.4% compared to 64.5% for dnSHN.

Conclusions

RASHN are confirmed to be rare. RASHN have poor overall survival and worse survival compared to dnSHN. The impact of intensity‐modulated radiation therapy protocols on this risk is unknown. Modifiable risk factors of smoking and alcohol consumption continue to dwarf radiation therapy as risk factors of second primary head and neck cancers.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 132:1034–1041, 2022
Evidence of air‐conduction transmission pathway and strategized transtemporal operative techniques for venous pulsatile tinnitus: Combining water occlusion test and operative sensing applications
Authors: Hsieh Yue‐Lin , Xu Xiaobing , Wu Yongzhen , Wang Wuqing
Published: November 2021

Objectives

(1) To establish evidence of the transmission pathway of venous pulsatile tinnitus (PT) associated with sigmoid sinus wall anomalies (SSWAs) and (2) quantify the efficacy of transtemporal surgery.

Methods

This retrospective study included 33 surgical cases of PT associated with SSWAs and 15 controls with venous PT without SSWAs. Quantitative water occlusion test (q‐WOT) and imaging data were acquired for preoperative evaluation prior to strategized transtemporal osteovascular reconstruction surgery. A condenser microphone and hydrophone were intraoperatively deployed to assess and monitor in vivo amplitude variations of the PT in eight participants.

Results

A total of 23 (69.6%) participants with SSWA responded to the q‐WOT with a median solution volume of 1.3 (1.1/1.6), which significantly differed from that observed in controls (p < 0.01). The change in the operative peak amplitude of the acoustic data was statistically significant (p < 0.01), from a median of 57.6 (55.5/57.9) dB SPL to 34.3 (33.4/38.8) dB SPL.

Conclusion

Intraoperative application of acoustic sensors revealed that PT associated with SSWAs is predominantly transmitted via the air‐conduction pathway. If objective findings such as q‐WOT and sensing applications suggest that the transmission of venous PT is involved in middle ear air conduction, the reconstruction technique should be prioritized; if less involvement of middle ear air‐conduction is indicated, addressing flow pathologies may be imperative for resolving venous PT.

Level of Evidence

4
How consumers subvert advertising through rhetorical institutional work
Authors: Middleton Karen , Thompson‐Whiteside Helen , Turnbull Sarah , Fletcher‐Brown Judith
Published: November 2021

We consider consumer subversion of advertising by investigating social media activity in response to an advertisement aired by a global brand. We draw on Aristotle's rhetorical justification to show how consumers used logos (logical appeals), ethos (credibility or moral authority), pathos (emotion‐inducing), and kairos (opportunity) rhetoric to challenge and undermine this advertising. Our study provides greater understanding of the mechanisms of consumer activism, examining how rhetorical strategies were deployed within consumers' institutional work toward the subversion of contentious advertising. We also examine the work of an organized boundary group to marshal consumer support for marketplace change and identify how ensuing argumentation led to the development of novel message frames intended to delegitimize advertising practices. We warn advertisers and brands to consider the implications of such collective consumer subversion at a time when the public and media are increasingly intolerant of organizational transgressions, particularly in relation to social justice issues, for example, gender stereotyping in advertising.
Autophagy awakens—the myriad roles of autophagy in head and neck cancer development and therapeutic response
Authors: Bradley Samantha T. , Lee Yong‐Syu , Gurel Zafer , Kimple Randall J.
Published: November 2021

Autophagy is an evolutionarily conserved cell survival mechanism that degrades damaged proteins and organelles to generate cellular energy during times of stress. Recycling of these cellular components occurs in a series of sequential steps with multiple regulatory points. Mechanistic dysfunction can lead to a variety of human diseases and cancers due to the complexity of autophagy and its ability to regulate vital cellular functions. The role that autophagy plays in both the development and treatment of cancer is highly complex, especially given the fact that most cancer therapies modulate autophagy. This review aims to discuss the balance of autophagy in the development, progression, and treatment of head and neck cancer, as well as highlighting the need for a deeper understanding of what is still unknown about autophagy.
A Novel TFG Mutation in a Korean Family with α‐Synucleinopathy and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Yoo Dallah , Lee Wonjae , Lee Seung‐Jae , Sung Jung‐Joon , Jeon Gye Sun , Ban Jae‐Jun , Shin Chaewon , Kim Jungho , Kim Hyo Sun , Ahn Tae‐Beom
Published: November 2021

Background

Tropomyosin‐receptor kinase fused gene (TFG) functions as a regulator of intracellular protein packaging and trafficking at the endoplasmic reticulum exit sites. TFG has recently been proposed as a cause of multisystem proteinopathy.

Objectives

Here, we describe a Korean family presenting with Parkinson's disease or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis caused by a novel variant of TFG (c.1148 G > A, p.Arg383His).

Methods

We collected clinical, genetic, dopamine transporter imaging, nerve conduction, and electromyography data from the seven subjects. To verify the pathogenicity of the R383H variant, we studied cell viability and the abnormal aggregation of α‐synuclein and TAR DNA‐binding protein 43 (TDP‐43) in HeLa cells expressing R383H‐TFG.

Results

The clinical phenotypes of the R383H‐TFG mutation varied; of the five family members, one had Parkinson's disease, three had subclinical parkinsonism, and one (the proband) had amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The individual with multiple system atrophy was the proband's paternal cousin, but the TFG genotype was not confirmed due to unavailability of samples. Our in vitro studies showed that R383H‐TFG overexpression impaired cell viability. In cells co‐expressing R383H‐TFG and α‐synuclein, insoluble α‐synuclein aggregates increased in concentration and were secreted from the cells and co‐localized with R383H‐TFG. The levels of cytoplasmic insoluble aggregates of TDP‐43 increased in HeLa cells expressing R383H‐TFG and co‐localized with R383H‐TFG.

Conclusions

Clinical and in vitro studies have supported the pathogenic role of the novel TFG mutation in α‐synucleinopathy and TDP‐43 proteinopathy. These findings expand the phenotypic spectrum of TFG and suggest a pivotal role of endoplasmic reticulum dysfunction during neurodegeneration. © 2021 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Four‐channel directly modulated square‐rectangular laser array in the O‐band
Authors: Huang Yong‐Tao , Xiao Jin‐Long , Li Jian‐Cheng , Ma Chun‐Guang , Hao You‐Zeng , Yang Yue‐De , Huang Yong‐Zhen
Published: November 2021

A four‐channel directly modulated square‐rectangular laser array was demonstrated in 1.3 μm wavelength range with the wavelength interval about 5 nm. The laser array shows stable single mode operation with the side‐mode suppression ratio (SMSR) over 30 dB, 3‐dB modulation bandwidth above 11.8 GHz and an open‐eye diagram is obtained at data rates of 10 Gb/s, and the relative intensity noise (RIN) about −138 dB/Hz up to 5 GHz for all channels.
Improving motion‐mask segmentation in thoracic CT with multiplanar U‐nets
Authors: Penarrubia Ludmilla , Pinon Nicolas , Roux Emmanuel , Dávila Serrano Eduardo Enrique , Richard Jean‐Christophe , Orkisz Maciej , Sarrut David
Published: November 2021

Purpose. Motion‐mask segmentation from thoracic computed tomography (CT) images is the process of extracting the region that encompasses lungs and viscera, where large displacements occur during breathing. It has been shown to help image registration between different respiratory phases. This registration step is, for example, useful for radiotherapy planning or calculating local lung ventilation. Knowing the location of motion discontinuity, that is, sliding motion near the pleura, allows a better control of the registration preventing unrealistic estimates. Nevertheless, existing methods for motion‐mask segmentation are not robust enough to be used in clinical routine. This article shows that it is feasible to overcome this lack of robustness by using a lightweight deep‐learning approach usable on a standard computer, and this even without data augmentation or advanced model design.

Methods. A convolutional neural‐network architecture with three 2D U‐nets for the three main orientations (sagittal, coronal, axial) was proposed. Predictions generated by the three U‐nets were combined by majority voting to provide a single 3D segmentation of the motion mask. The networks were trained on a database of nonsmall cell lung cancer 4D CT images of 43 patients. Training and evaluation were done with a K‐fold cross‐validation strategy. Evaluation was based on a visual grading by two experts according to the appropriateness of the segmented motion mask for the registration task, and on a comparison with motion masks obtained by a baseline method using level sets. A second database (76 CT images of patients with early‐stage COVID‐19), unseen during training, was used to assess the generalizability of the trained neural network.

Results. The proposed approach outperformed the baseline method in terms of quality and robustness: the success rate increased from to without producing any failure. It also achieved a speed‐up factor of 60 with GPU, or 17 with CPU. The memory footprint was low: less than 5 GB GPU RAM for training and less than 1 GB GPU RAM for inference. When evaluated on a dataset with images differing by several characteristics (CT device, pathology, and field of view), the proposed method improved the success rate from to .

Conclusion. With 5‐s processing time on a mid‐range GPU and success rates around , the proposed approach seems fast and robust enough to be routinely used in clinical practice. The success rate can be further improved by incorporating more diversity in training data via data augmentation and additional annotated images from different scanners and diseases. The code and trained model are publicly available.
Innovation contests with risk‐averse participants
Authors: Tian Xu
Published: November 2021

The innovation contest is well organized to provide solutions or ideas for companies. In the existing innovation contest literature, several articles assume that the contestants are risk neutral and show that a single‐winner award scheme is optimal. In this article, we assume that the contestants are risk averse and show that the risk aversion of contestants can explain the popularity of the multiple‐winner, convex (unequal) allocation scheme, which generalizes the findings of a prior study and coincides with practical observations. This result also possesses a certain robustness in several cases.
Thermal and electrical dual‐triggered shape memory Eucommia ulmoides gum derived from renewable resources
Authors: Li Long , Luo Sen , Li Donghan , Wang Na , Kang Hailan , Fang Qinghong
Published: November 2021

Thermal and electrical dual‐triggered shape memory composites were prepared by introducing multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) into the Eucommia ulmoides gum (EUG) matrix. The morphology of the composites was investigated by scanning electron microscope, and the CNTs exhibited good dispersion in the EUG matrix. The well‐dispersed CNTs built a conductive network in the EUG matrix, generating electric current induced heat. The composites showed the shape memory effect upon stimulation by heat and electricity. The composites exhibited increased shape recovery speed with the increase in CNTs content and applied voltage. Furthermore, the composites recovered to 90% of their initial length within 36 V (AC), which is safe for humans. This work provides a feasible material with dual‐triggered shape memory characteristics, which can find potential applications in medicine devices.
Cookoff of Powdered and Pressed Explosives Using a Micromechanics Pressurization Model
Authors: Hobbs Michael L. , Brown Judith A. , Kaneshige Michael J. , Aviles‐Ramos Cuauhtemoc
Published: November 2021

Cookoff experiments of powdered and pressed TATB‐based plastic bonded explosives (PBXs) have been modeled using a pressure‐dependent universal cookoff model (UCM) in combination with a micromechanics pressurization (MMP) model described in a companion paper. The MMP model is based on the accumulation of decomposition gases at nucleation sites that load the surrounding TATB crystals and binder. This is the first cookoff model to use an analytical mechanics solution for compressibility and thermal expansion to describe internal pressurization caused by both temperature and decomposition occurring within closed‐pore explosives. This approach produces more accurate predictions of ignition time and pressurization within high‐density explosives than simple equation‐of‐state models. The current paper gives details of the reaction chemistry, model parameters, predicted uncertainty, and validation using experiments from multiple laboratories with errors less than 6 %. The UCM/MMP model framework gives more accurate thermal ignition predictions for high density explosives that are initially impermeable to decomposition gases.
PDBsum extras: SARS‐CoV‐2 and AlphaFold models
Authors: Laskowski Roman A. , Thornton Janet M.
Published: November 2021

The PDBsum web server provides structural analyses of the entries in the Protein Data Bank (PDB). Two recent additions are described here. The first is the detailed analysis of the SARS‐CoV‐2 virus protein structures in the PDB. These include the variants of concern, which are shown both on the sequences and 3D structures of the proteins. The second addition is the inclusion of the available AlphaFold models for human proteins. The pages allow a search of the protein against existing structures in the PDB via the Sequence Annotated by Structure (SAS) server, so one can easily compare the predicted model against experimentally determined structures. The server is freely accessible to all at http://www.ebi.ac.uk/pdbsum.
Effects of microplastics on crop nutrition in fertile soils and interaction with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi
Authors: Moreno‐Jiménez Eduardo , Leifheit Eva F. , Plaza César , Feng Linshan , Bergmann Joana , Wulf Anja , Lehmann Anika , Rillig Matthias C.
Published: November 2021

Introduction

Soil microplastic (MP) pollution has emerged as a main factor of global change, but its effects on soil nutrient availability and uptake by crops (macro and micronutrients) are largely unknown. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are regulators of nutrient availability and uptake and can interact with soil MP.

Materials and Methods

Building on previous studies, here we explored in a 50‐days pot experiment the influence and interaction of MP fibres (0.4%) and commercial AMF in soil and onion chemistry, that is, in elemental composition of onion shoots and soils (C, N, Ca, Mg, K, P, S, Cu, Fe, Mn and Zn) and micronutrient soil availability (Cu, Fe, Mn and Zn).

Results

MP had detrimental effects on K, Mg and S, but increased the soil availability of Zn and shoot uptake. AMF inoculation buffered the effects of MP by balancing/enhancing nutrient availability and plant uptake. Particularly, the commercial AMF inoculum remarkably enhanced Mn uptake by onion.

Conclusion

Our results support the use of AMF to sustainably manage agricultural ecosystems contaminated with MP, buffering and counteracting the effects of MP by balancing nutrient availability and plant uptake.
Narratives
Authors: Lovell Heather
Published: November 2021

Stories pervade society and play a role in helping us to simplify and make sense of new innovations such as smart grids. Narratives are useful to study not only because of the things, people and organisations that they speak to but also because of the things that are not said—the silences. There are many narratives about smart grids and in this chapter I explore three examples: a global industry narrative about households and their willingness to participate in smart grids; a narrative of policy failure about a smart grid project in the State of Victoria, Australia; and narratives that compete with smart grids, including the hydrogen economy and off-grid energy futures.
Resolving the (g − 2)μ discrepancy with $$ \mathcal{F} $$–SU(5) intersecting D-branes
Authors: Lamborn Joseph L. , Li Tianjun , Maxin James A. , Nanopoulos Dimitri V.
Published: November 2021

Abstract

A discrepancy between the measured anomalous magnetic moment of the muon (g − 2)μ and computed Standard Model value now stands at a combined 4.2σ following experiments at Brookhaven National Lab (BNL) and the Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory (FNAL). A solution to the disagreement is uncovered in flipped SU(5) with additional TeV-Scale vector-like 10 + $$ \overline{\mathbf{10}} $$

10
¯

multiplets and charged singlet derived from local F-Theory, collectively referred to as $$ \mathcal{F} $$
F
–SU(5). Here we engage general No-Scale supersymmetry (SUSY) breaking in $$ \mathcal{F} $$
F
–SU(5) D-brane model building to alleviate the (g −2)μ tension between the Standard Model and observations. A robust ∆aμ(SUSY) is realized via mixing of M5 and M1X at the secondary SU(5) × U(1)X unification scale in $$ \mathcal{F} $$
F
–SU(5) emanating from SU(5) breaking and U(1)X flux effects. Calculations unveil ∆aμ(SUSY) = 19.0–22.3 × 10−10 for gluino masses of M($$ \overset{\sim }{g} $$

g
~

)= 2.25–2.56 TeV and higgsino dark matter, aptly residing within the BNL+FNAL 1σ mean. This (g − 2)μ favorable region of the model space also generates the correct light Higgs boson mass and branching ratios of companion rare decay processes, and is further consistent with all LHC Run 2 constraints. Finally, we also examine the heavy SUSY Higgs boson in light of recent LHC searches for an extended Higgs sector.
From the BTZ black hole to JT gravity: geometrizing the island
Authors: Verheijden Evita , Verlinde Erik
Published: November 2021

Abstract

We study the evaporation of two-dimensional black holes in JT gravity from a three-dimensional point of view. A partial dimensional reduction of AdS3 in Poincaré coordinates leads to an extremal 2D black hole in JT gravity coupled to a ‘bath’: the holographic dual of the remainder of the 3D spacetime. Partially reducing the BTZ black hole gives us the finite temperature version. We compute the entropy of the radiation using geodesics in the three-dimensional spacetime. We then focus on the finite temperature case and describe the dynamics by introducing time-dependence into the parameter controlling the reduction. The energy of the black hole decreases linearly as we slowly move the dividing line between black hole and bath. Through a re-scaling of the BTZ parameters we map this to the more canonical picture of exponential evaporation. Finally, studying the entropy of the radiation over time leads to a geometric representation of the Page curve. The appearance of the island region is explained in a natural and intuitive fashion.
Evolution of neutrino mass-mixing parameters in matter with non-standard interactions
Authors: Agarwalla Sanjib Kumar , Das Sudipta , Masud Mehedi , Swain Pragyanprasu
Published: November 2021

Abstract

We explore the role of matter effect in the evolution of neutrino oscillation parameters in the presence of lepton-flavor-conserving and lepton-flavor-violating neutral-current non-standard interactions (NSI) of the neutrino. We derive simple approximate analytical expressions showing the evolution of mass-mixing parameters in matter with energy in the presence of standard interactions (SI) and SI+NSI (considering both positive and negative values of real NSI parameters). We observe that only the NSI parameters in the (2,3) block, namely εμτ and (γ − β) ≡ (εττ− εμμ) affect the modification of θ23. Though all the NSI parameters influence the evolution of θ13, εeμ and εeτ show a stronger impact at the energies relevant for DUNE. The solar mixing angle θ12 quickly approaches to ∼ 90° with increasing energy in both SI and SI+NSI cases. The change in ∆$$ {m}_{21,m}^2 $$

m

21
,
m

2

is quite significant as compared to ∆$$ {m}_{31,m}^2 $$

m

31
,
m

2

both in SI and SI+NSI frameworks for the energies relevant for DUNE baseline. Flipping the signs of the NSI parameters alters the way in which mass-mixing parameters run with energy. We demonstrate the utility of our approach in addressing several important features related to neutrino oscillation such as: a) unraveling interesting degeneracies between θ23 and NSI parameters, b) estimating the resonance energy in presence of NSI when θ13 in matter becomes maximal, c) figuring out the required baselines and energies to have maximal matter effect in νμ → νe transition in the presence of different NSI parameters, and d) studying the impact of NSI parameters εμτ and (γ − β) on the νμ → νμ survival probability.
Genetic characterization of carrot root shape and size using genome-wide association analysis and genomic-estimated breeding values
Authors: Brainard Scott H. , Ellison Shelby L. , Simon Philipp W. , Dawson Julie C. , Goldman Irwin L.
Published: November 2021

Key message

The principal phenotypic determinants of market class in carrot—the size and shape of the root—are under primarily additive, but also highly polygenic, genetic control.

The size and shape of carrot roots are the primary determinants not only of yield, but also market class. These quantitative phenotypes have historically been challenging to objectively evaluate, and thus subjective visual assessment of market class remains the primary method by which selection for these traits is performed. However, advancements in digital image analysis have recently made possible the high-throughput quantification of size and shape attributes. It is therefore now feasible to utilize modern methods of genetic analysis to investigate the genetic control of root morphology. To this end, this study utilized both genome wide association analysis (GWAS) and genomic-estimated breeding values (GEBVs) and demonstrated that the components of market class are highly polygenic traits, likely under the influence of many small effect QTL. Relatively large proportions of additive genetic variance for many of the component phenotypes support high predictive ability of GEBVs; average prediction ability across underlying market class traits was 0.67. GWAS identified multiple QTL for four of the phenotypes which compose market class: length, aspect ratio, maximum width, and root fill, a previously uncharacterized trait which represents the size-independent portion of carrot root shape. By combining digital image analysis with GWAS and GEBVs, this study represents a novel advance in our understanding of the genetic control of market class in carrot. The immediate practical utility and viability of genomic selection for carrot market class is also described, and concrete guidelines for the design of training populations are provided.
Investigating the in vitro steatotic mixture effects of similarly and dissimilarly acting test compounds using an adverse outcome pathway-based approach
Authors: Alarcan Jimmy , de Sousa Georges , Katsanou Efrosini S. , Spyropoulou Anastasia , Batakis Petros , Machera Kyriaki , Rahmani Roger , Lampen Alfonso , Braeuning Albert , Lichtenstein Dajana
Published: November 2021

Within the EuroMix project, we have previously developed an adverse outcome pathway (AOP)-based in vitro assay toolbox to investigate the combined effects of liver steatosis-inducing compounds in human HepaRG hepatocarcinoma cells. In this study, we applied the toolbox to further investigate mixture effects of combinations, featuring either similarly acting or dissimilarly acting substances. The valproic acid structural analogs 2-propylheptanoic acid (PHP) and 2-propylhexanoic acid (PHX) were chosen for establishing mixtures of similarly acting substances, while a combination with the pesticidal active substance clothianidin (CTD) was chosen for establishing mixtures of dissimilarly acting compounds. We first determined relative potency factors (RPFs) for each compound based on triglyceride accumulation results. Thereafter, equipotent mixtures were tested for nuclear receptor activation in transfected HepG2 cells, while gene expression and triglyceride accumulation were investigated in HepaRG cells, following the proposed AOP for liver steatosis. Dose addition was observed for all combinations and endpoints tested, indicating the validity of the additivity assumption also in the case of the tested mixtures of dissimilarly acting substances. Gene expression results indicate that the existing steatosis AOP can still be refined with respect to the early key event (KE) of gene expression, in order to reflect the diversity of molecular mechanisms underlying the adverse outcome.
Mechanical properties of sunflower oil under pressure
Authors: Pawlicki L. T. , Rostocki A. J. , Tefelski D. B. , Siegoczyński R. M. , Ptasznik S.
Published: November 2021

This article presents the results of research on the influence of high pressure on the mechanical properties of sunflower oil. The pressure value was changed by the stepwise method to obtain thermodynamic equilibrium. Dependencies of changes in the volume and compressibility of sunflower oil on pressure were investigated. A discontinuous (step) change was observed indicating the appearance of the first order phase transformation. The phase transition for sunflower oil was observed in the pressure range from 450 to 500 MPa after about 170 h. Most likely, then, there was a change to the double crystal phase. The time after which this transformation took place was the longest of all times that the authors have observed so far for the study.
Contemporary options and future perspectives: three examples highlighting the challenges in testicular cancer imaging
Authors: Wakileh Gamal Anton , Ruf Christian , Heidenreich Axel , Dieckmann Klaus-Peter , Lisson Catharina , Prasad Vikas , Bolenz Christian , Zengerling Friedemann
Published: November 2021

Purpose

One of the main issues in testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) management is to reduce the necessary amount of treatment to achieve cure. Excess treatment burden may arise from late diagnosis of the primary as well as from false positive or negative staging results. Correct imaging is of paramount importance for successful management of TGCT. The aim of this review is to point out the current state of the art as well as innovative developments in TGCT imaging on the basis of three common challenging clinical situations.

Methods

A selective literature search was performed in PubMed, Medline as well as in recent conference proceedings.

Results

Regarding small testicular lesions, recent studies using elastography, contrast-enhanced ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed promising data for differentiation between benign and malignant histology. For borderline enlarged lymph nodes FDG-PET-CT performance is unsatisfactory, promising new techniques as lymphotropic nanoparticle-enhanced MRI is the subject of research in this field. Regarding the assessment of postchemotherapeutic residual masses, the use of conventional computerized tomography (CT) together with serum tumor markers is still the standard of care. To avoid overtreatment in this setting, new imaging modalities like diffusion-weighted MRI and radiomics are currently under investigation. For follow-up of clinical stage I TGCTs, the use of MRI is non-inferior to CT while omitting radiation exposure.

Conclusion

Further efforts should be made to refine imaging for TGCT patients, which is of high relevance for the guidance of treatment decisions as well as the associated treatment burdens and oncological outcomes.
Blinking kinematics characterization during digital displays use
Authors: Talens-Estarelles Cristian , Esteve-Taboada José Juan , Sanchis-Jurado Vicent , Pons Álvaro M , García-Lázaro Santiago
Published: November 2021

Purpose

This study aimed to assess the differences in blinking kinematics while reading on different digital displays and a control condition.

Methods

Thirty-two young healthy individuals were included in this prospective clinical study. The blinks of subjects were recorded for 150 s while reading on a laptop computer, tablet, e-reader, and smartphone and a control condition. Blinks were recorded using an eye-tracking device and were analyzed by means of image analysis to obtain a non-invasive detailed description of the blink movement.

Results

Blink rate decreased when reading on all displays compared to the control (p < 0.0005), although no differences were obtained amongst displays (p > 0.05). The percentage of incomplete blinks was higher with the computer compared to the control (p = 0.043), and lower with the smartphone compared to the rest of the conditions (p ≤ 0.015). Blink amplitude was smaller when reading from handheld devices compared to the control (p < 0.0005) and the computer (p ≤ 0.048). Closing and opening blink durations remained unvaried amongst conditions (p > 0.05), while opening and closing speeds were greater for the control and the computer compared to the handheld displays (p < 0.0005). Finally, contact and total blink durations were shorter during computer reading compared to the control (p = 0.004 and p = 0.017, respectively).

Conclusion

Blinking kinematics vary considerably amongst displays and with respect to baseline, with these differences being probably attributed to differences in the way the displays are set up and the cognitive demand of the task.
Recycling von Multilayerfolien
Authors: Koinig Gerald , Rutrecht Bettina , Vollprecht Daniel
Published: November 2021

Die Verbreitung von Mehrschichtfolien im Bereich Kunststoffverpackungen bringt viele Vorteile für Konsumenten, Vertrieb und Umwelt, stellt aber die Abfallwirtschaft vor neue Herausforderungen. Der Materialverbund aus dünnsten unterschiedlichen Plastikwerkstoffen ist bislang mangels passender Technologien im Industriemaßstab online nur schwer vom restlichen Kunststoffverpackungsstrom unterscheidbar. Der Mix an unerwünschten Materialien führt zu Kompatibilitätsproblemen der Kunststoffe untereinander im Recyclingprodukt und in weiterer Folge zu einer Qualitätsminderung der Sekundärrohstoffe. In Projekten, wie etwa dem Multilayer-Detection-Projekt, wird bereits nach Lösungen dazu gesucht. Ziel ist die bestehende NIR-Sortiertechnik in bestehenden Kunststoffrecyclinganlagen dermaßen zu adaptieren, dass die Identifikation und Ausschleusung der Multilayerfolien mit möglichst geringem Aufwand nachgerüstet werden kann. Mit der Entwicklung der neuen Recyclingmethode können sich die vorhandenen Vorteile der Folienverpackungen bestmöglich und umweltfreundlich entfalten und eine abfallwirtschaftliche Herausforderung durch einen wertvollen Beitrag zur Kreislaufwirtschaft gemeistert werden.
Pollen morphology of Ellisiophyllum and Sibthorpia (Plantaginaceae, tribe Sibthorpieae) and phylogenetics of the tribe
Authors: Albach Dirk C. , Tsymbalyuk Zoya M. , Mosyakin Sergei L.
Published: November 2021

Pollen morphology of six species belonging to genera Ellisiophyllum and Sibthorpia (Plantaginaceae tribe Sibthorpieae) was studied using light and scanning electron microscopy. The data were analyzed in the light of the first phylogenetic analysis including all but one species of the tribe using DNA sequence data from nuclear ribosomal (ITS) and plastid trnL-F region. Pollen grains in representatives of this tribe are 3-colpate, occasionally 3-porate, suboblate to prolate; mainly medium-sized, rarely small. One major pollen type (3-colpate) is recognized in the tribe. Within this pollen type, six subtypes are distinguished based on their exine sculpture, pollen grain size, length of the apertures, and exine thickness. The obtained results confirm that pollen characters are useful for species identification. Palynomorphological data are consistent with the results of the molecular phylogenetic analyses. All studies support a sister relationship of the widespread European Sibthorpia europaea with the widespread South American Sibthorpia repens and a sister relationship of two insular species, the Balearic Sibthorpia africana and the Madeiran Sibthorpia peregrina. Pollen grains in the tribe Sibthorpieae have both reticulate exine sculpture characteristic for representatives of the Russelieae–Cheloneae–Antirrhineae clades of Plantaginaceae, and also nanoechinate sculpture, which is typical for the Veroniceae and Plantagineae clades of that family. Also, in Sibthorpia repens, we observe a possible transition from the colpate type to the porate type typical for taxa of Plantago and Littorella.
A satellite-based method for modeling ionospheric slant TEC from GNSS observations: algorithm and validation
Authors: Li Wen , Li Zishen , Wang Ningbo , Liu Ang , Zhou Kai , Yuan Hong , Krankowski Andrzej
Published: November 2021

Total Electron Content (TEC) modeling is critical for Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) users to mitigate ionospheric delay errors. The mapping function is usually used for Vertical TEC ionospheric correction models for slant and vertical TEC conversion. But the mapping function cannot characterize TEC variation in different azimuths between the user and satellites. The ionospheric modeling error resulting from the mapping function tends to be bigger in middle and low latitudes. Therefore, a new algorithm for ionospheric Slant TEC (STEC) modeling with Satellite-based Ionospheric Model (SIM) is proposed in this contribution. Validation tests are carried out with GNSS observation data from the Crustal Movement Observation Network of China during different solar activities and in different seasons. The performance of SIM is compared with that of several commonly-used Global Ionospheric Map (GIM) and Regional Ionospheric Map (RIM) products. The results show that the STEC bias and STD of SIM are within 1.0 TECU and about 2.0 TECU, respectively, and SIM can correct over 90% STEC RMS errors, outperforming the GIM and RIM products. Consequently, the SIM algorithm can be a new option for high-accuracy ionospheric delay correction in regional and local GNSS networks.
Dynamic MRI of swallowing: real-time volumetric imaging at 12 frames per second at 3 T
Authors: Voskuilen Luuk , Schoormans Jasper , Gurney-Champion Oliver J. , Balm Alfons J. M. , Strijkers Gustav J. , Smeele Ludi E. , Nederveen Aart J.
Published: November 2021

Objective

Dysphagia or difficulty in swallowing is a potentially hazardous clinical problem that needs regular monitoring. Real-time 2D MRI of swallowing is a promising radiation-free alternative to the current clinical standard: videofluoroscopy. However, aspiration may be missed if it occurs outside this single imaged slice. We therefore aimed to image swallowing in 3D real time at 12 frames per second (fps).

Materials and methods

At 3 T, three 3D real-time MRI acquisition approaches were compared to the 2D acquisition: an aligned stack-of-stars (SOS), and a rotated SOS with a golden-angle increment and with a tiny golden-angle increment. The optimal 3D acquisition was determined by computer simulations and phantom scans. Subsequently, five healthy volunteers were scanned and swallowing parameters were measured.

Results

Although the rotated SOS approaches resulted in better image quality in simulations, in practice, the aligned SOS performed best due to the limited number of slices. The four swallowing phases could be distinguished in 3D real-time MRI, even though the spatial blurring was stronger than in 2D. The swallowing parameters were similar between 2 and 3D.

Conclusion

At a spatial resolution of 2-by-2-by-6 mm with seven slices, swallowing can be imaged in 3D real time at a frame rate of 12 fps.
PRInK: Environmental virtual interactive based education and learning model for STEM motivation
Authors: Yahaya Jamaiah , Fadzli Sazrol , Deraman Aziz , Yahaya Noor Zaitun , Halim Lilia , Rais Izhar Abadi Ibrahim , Ibrahim Siti Rohana Ahmad
Published: November 2021

Pollution from quarry activities has a substantial environmental impact on many countries. This issue should be addressed accordingly as its impact may introduce various health-related problems to the surrounding community. One alternative is to increase awareness for the younger generation and society at large. However, environmental data modelling, specifically on quarry activities, has thus far targeted engineers and professionals, not school children, such as for knowledge exploration or learning material. At the same time, the number of students enrolling in STEM courses is continuously declining. Hence, this research aims to develop the environmental virtual interactive based education and learning model called PRInK to foster STEM education. Five components of the proposed model were identified: a) Computer-Assisted Learning; b) Motivation Level; c) Green Environmental Data; d) Learning Outcome; and e) Problem Context. The actual environmental scientific data were used in the simulation and visualisation. Experts in these fields verified the components. The result of the analysis reveals 17 groups of elements, which were further categorised into 58 sub-elements. The model then was validated through prototype development and users validation. The testing and validation of the prototype were carried out on secondary school children, with the results proving the usability and practicality of the model and showed the increased STEM motivation and interest. The PRInK model and the prototype increase society’s awareness about environmental issues starting from school, increase STEM interest and improve the overall quality of life through a shared understanding for future generations.
Influence of nutrient enrichment on temporal and spatial dynamics of dissolved oxygen within northern temperate estuaries
Authors: Coffin MRS , Knysh KM , Roloson SD , Pater CC , Theriaul E , Cormier JM , Courtenay SC , van den Heuvel MR
Published: November 2021

In temperate estuaries of the southern Gulf of St. Lawrence, intermittent seasonal anoxia coupled with phytoplankton blooms is a regular occurrence in watersheds dominated by agricultural land use. To examine the spatial relationship between dissolved oxygen and phytoplankton throughout the estuary to assist in designing monitoring programs, oxygen depth profiles and chlorophyll measurements were taken bi-weekly from May to December in 18 estuaries. In five of those estuaries, dissolved oxygen data loggers were set to measure oxygen at hourly intervals and at multiple locations within the estuary the subsequent year. The primary hypothesis was that dissolved oxygen in the upper estuary (first 10% of estuary area) is predictive of dissolved oxygen mid-estuary (50% of estuary area). The second hypothesis was that hypoxia/superoxia in the estuary is influenced by temperature and tidal flushing. Oxygen depth profiles conducted in the first year of study provided preliminary support that dissolved oxygen in the upper estuary was related to dissolved oxygen throughout the estuary. However, dissolved oxygen from loggers deployed at 10% and 50% of estuary area did not show as strong a correlation as expected (less than half the variance explained). The strength of the correlation declined towards the end of summer. Spatial decoupling of oxygen within the estuary suggested influence of local conditions. Chlorophyll concentration seemed also to be dependent on local conditions as it appeared to be coupled with the presence of sustained anoxia in the upper estuary with blooms typically occurring within 7 to 14 days of anoxia. The practical implication for oxygen monitoring is that one location within the most severely impacted part of the estuary is not sufficient to fully evaluate the severity of eutrophication effects.
Solutions, in Particular Dilute Solutions of Nonelectrolytes: A Review
Authors: Wilhelm Emmerich
Published: November 2021

Theliquidstate is one of the three principal states of matter and arguably the most important one; andliquid mixturesrepresent a large research field of profound theoretical and practical interest. This topic is of importance in many areas of the applied sciences, such as in chemical engineering, geochemistry, the environmental sciences, biophysics and biomedical technology. First, I will concisely present a review of important concepts from classical thermodynamics of nonelectrolyte solutions; this will be followed by a survey of (semi-)empirical approaches to representing the composition and temperature dependence of selected thermodynamic mixture properties, and finally the focus will be on dilute binary nonelectrolyte solutions where one component, a supercritical solute, is present in much smaller quantity than the other component, called the solvent. Partial molar properties in the limit ofinfinite dilution(indicated by a superscript ∞) are of particular interest. For instance, activity coefficients (Lewis–Randall (LR) convention) are customarily used to characterize mixing behavior, and infinite-dilution values$$\gamma_{i}^{{{\text{LR,}}\infty }}$$γiLR,∞provide a convenient route for obtaining binary parameters for several popular solution models. When discussingsolute (j)—solvent (i)interactions in solutions where the solute is supercritical, the Henry fugacity$$h_{j,i} \left( {T,P} \right)$$hj,iT,P, also known as Henry’s law (HL) constant, is a measurable thermodynamic key quantity. Its temperature dependence yields information on the partial molar enthalpy change on solution$$\Delta H_{j}^{\infty } \left( {T,P} \right)$$ΔHj∞T,P, while its pressure dependence yields information on the partial molar volume$$V_{j}^{{{\text{L,}}\infty }} \left( {T,P} \right)$$VjL,∞T,Pof solutejin the liquid phase (superscript L). I will clarify issues frequently overlooked, touch upon solubility data reduction and correlation, report a few recent high-precision experimental results on diluteaqueoussolutions of supercritical nonelectrolytes, and show theequivalencyof results for caloric quantities (e.g.$$\Delta H_{j}^{\infty }$$ΔHj∞) obtained via van ’t Hoff analysis of high-precision solubility data with directly measured calorimetric data.