bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the efficacy of treatment options for anal intraepithelial neoplasia: a systematic review
Authors: Brogden Danielle R. L. , Walsh Una , Pellino Gianluca , Kontovounisios Christos , Tekkis Paris , Mills Sarah C.
Published: September 2020

Purpose

Anal intraepithelial neoplasia (AIN) is the accepted precursor of anal squamous cell carcinoma (ASCC). There has long been a hypothesis that treating AIN may prevent ASCC. Many different treatment modalities have been suggested and studied. We conducted this systematic review to evaluate their efficacy and the evidence as to whether we can prevent ASCC by treating AIN.

Methods

MEDLINE and EMBASE were electronically searched using relevant search terms. All studies investigating the use of a single treatment for AIN that reported at least one end outcome such as partial or complete response to treatment, recurrence after treatment and/or ASCC diagnosis after treatment were included.

Results

Thirty studies were included in the systematic review investigating 10 treatment modalities: 5% imiquimod, 5-fluorouracil, cidofovir, trichloroacetic acid, electrocautery, surgical excision, infrared coagulation, radiofrequency ablation, photodynamic therapy and HPV vaccination. All treatment modalities demonstrated some initial regression of AIN after treatment; however, recurrence rates were high especially in HIV-positive patients. Many of the studies suffered from significant bias which prevented direct comparison.

Conclusions

Although the theory persists that by inducing the regression of AIN, we may be able to reduce the risk of ASCC, there was no clinical evidence within the literature advocating that treating AIN does prevent ASCC.
Mosaic trisomy of chromosome 1q in human brain tissue associates with unilateral polymicrogyria, very early-onset focal epilepsy, and severe developmental delay
Authors: Kobow Katja , Jabari Samir , Pieper Tom , Kudernatsch Manfred , Polster Tilman , Woermann Friedrich G. , Kalbhenn Thilo , Hamer Hajo , Rössler Karl , Mühlebner Angelika , Spliet Wim G. M. , Feucht Martha , Hou Yanghao , Stichel Damian , Korshunov Andrey , Sahm Felix , Coras Roland , Blümcke Ingmar , von Deimling Andreas
Published: September 2020

Polymicrogyria (PMG) is a developmental cortical malformation characterized by an excess of small and frustrane gyration and abnormal cortical lamination. PMG frequently associates with seizures. The molecular pathomechanisms underlying PMG development are not yet understood. About 40 genes have been associated with PMG, and small copy number variations have also been described in selected patients. We recently provided evidence that epilepsy-associated structural brain lesions can be classified based on genomic DNA methylation patterns. Here, we analyzed 26 PMG patients employing array-based DNA methylation profiling on formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded material. A series of 62 well-characterized non-PMG cortical malformations (focal cortical dysplasia type 2a/b and hemimegalencephaly), temporal lobe epilepsy, and non-epilepsy autopsy controls was used as reference cohort. Unsupervised dimensionality reduction and hierarchical cluster analysis of DNA methylation profiles showed that PMG formed a distinct DNA methylation class. Copy number profiling from DNA methylation data identified a uniform duplication spanning the entire long arm of chromosome 1 in 7 out of 26 PMG patients, which was verified by additional fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis. In respective cases, about 50% of nuclei in the center of the PMG lesion were 1q triploid. No chromosomal imbalance was seen in adjacent, architecturally normal-appearing tissue indicating mosaicism. Clinically, PMG 1q patients presented with a unilateral frontal or hemispheric PMG without hemimegalencephaly, a severe form of intractable epilepsy with seizure onset in the first months of life, and severe developmental delay. Our results show that PMG can be classified among other structural brain lesions according to their DNA methylation profile. One subset of PMG with distinct clinical features exhibits a duplication of chromosomal arm 1q.
Postoperative pain, pain management, and recovery at home after pediatric tonsil surgery
Authors: Alm Fredrik , Lundeberg Stefan , Ericsson Elisabeth
Published: September 2020

Purpose

To explore the severity and duration of postoperative pain, the management of analgesics, and postoperative recovery in children undergoing tonsil surgery.

Method

Participants included 299 children aged 4–17 years undergoing tonsillotomy ± adenoidectomy (TT ± A) or tonsillectomy ± adenoidectomy (TE ± A). Data were collected up to 12 days. The child rated pain on the Face Pain Scale-Revised (FPS-R) and recovery using the Postoperative Recovery in Children (PRiC) questionnaire. Caregivers assessed their child's pain, anxiety, and nausea on a numeric analog scale and kept a log of analgesic administration.

Results

High pain levels (FPS-R ≥ 4) were reported in all surgical and age groups (TT ± A age 4–11, TE ± A age 4–11, TE ± A age 12–17), but there were variations in pain intensity and duration within and between groups. The TE ± A group scored more days with moderate to very excruciating pain and lower recovery than the TT ± A group, with the worst outcomes reported by older TE ± A children. The majority of the children used paracetamol + COX-inhibitors at home, but regular administration of analgesics was lacking, particularly during late evening and at night. Few were received rescue medication (opioid or clonidine) despite severe pain. Physical symptoms and daily life activities were affected during the recovery period. There was moderate agreement between child and the caregiver’s pain assessment scores.

Conclusion

Children reported a troublesome recovery with significant postoperative pain, particularly older children undergoing tonsillectomy. Pain treatment at home was suboptimal and lacked regular analgesic administration. Patient information needs to be improved regarding the importance of regular administration of analgesics and rescue medication.
A NOTCH3 homozygous nonsense mutation in familial Sneddon syndrome with pediatric stroke
Authors: Greisenegger Elli Katharine , Llufriu Sara , Chamorro Angel , Cervera Alvaro , Jimenez-Escrig Adriano , Rappersberger Klemens , Marik Wolfgang , Greisenegger Stefan , Stögmann Elisabeth , Kopp Tamara , Strom Tim M. , Henes Jörg , Joutel Anne , Zimprich Alexander
Published: September 2020

Sneddon syndrome is a rare disorder affecting small and medium-sized blood vessels that is characterized by the association of livedo reticularis and stroke. We performed whole-exome sequencing (WES) in 2 affected siblings of a consanguineous family with childhood-onset stroke and identified a homozygous nonsense mutation within the epidermal growth factor repeat (EGFr) 19 of NOTCH3, p.(Arg735Ter). WES of 6 additional cases with adult-onset stroke revealed 2 patients carrying heterozygous loss-of-function variants in putative NOTCH3 downstream genes, ANGPTL4, and PALLD. Our findings suggest that impaired NOTCH3 signaling is one underlying disease mechanism and that bi-allelic loss-of-function mutation in NOTCH3 is a cause of familial Sneddon syndrome with pediatric stroke.
Artificial intelligence to detect MYC translocation in slides of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma
Authors: Swiderska-Chadaj Zaneta , Hebeda Konnie M. , van den Brand Michiel , Litjens Geert
Published: September 2020

In patients with suspected lymphoma, the tissue biopsy provides lymphoma confirmation, classification, and prognostic factors, including genetic changes. We developed a deep learning algorithm to detect MYC rearrangement in scanned histological slides of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. The H&E-stained slides of 287 cases from 11 hospitals were used for training and evaluation. The overall sensitivity to detect MYC rearrangement was 0.93 and the specificity 0.52, showing that prediction of MYC translocation based on morphology alone was possible in 93% of MYC-rearranged cases. This would allow a simple and fast prescreening, saving approximately 34% of genetic tests with the current algorithm.
Assessment of turbulence effects on effective solute diffusivity close to a sediment-free fluid interface
Authors: Baioni E. , Porta G. M. , Mousavi Nezhad M. , Guadagnini A.
Published: September 2020

Our work is focused on the analysis of solute mixing under the influence of turbulent flow propagating in a porous system across the interface with a free fluid. Such a scenario is representative of solute transport and chemical mixing in the hyporheic zone. The study is motivated by recent experimental results (Chandler et al. Water Res Res 52(5):3493–3509, 2016) which suggested that the effective diffusion parameter is characterized by an exponentially decreasing trend with depth below the sediment-water interface. This result has been recently employed to model numerically downstream solute transport and mixing in streams. Our study provides a quantification of the uncertainty associated with the interpretation of the available experimental data. Our probabilistic analysis relies on a Bayesian inverse modeling approach implemented through an acceptance/rejection algorithm. The stochastic inversion workflow yields depth-resolved posterior (i.e., conditional on solute breakthrough data) probability distributions of the effective diffusion coefficient and enables one to assess the impact on these of (a) the characteristic grain size of the solid matrix associated with the porous medium and (b) the turbulence level at the water-sediment interface. Our results provide quantitative estimates of the uncertainty associated with spatially variable diffusion coefficients. Finally, we discuss possible limitations about the generality of the conclusions one can draw from the considered dataset.
Influence of NAO on forming the UTCI index in Kłodzko
Authors: Głogowski Arkadiusz , Bryś Krystyna , Bryś Tadeusz
Published: September 2020

The aim of this paper is to understand the role of the macrocirculation factor in shaping the dynamics of long-term bioclimatic conditions, with reference to Kłodzko in the Polish part of the Central Sudetes. The variability of bioclimatic conditions in Kłodzko for the period 1966–2017 was analysed, exposing its local specificity. The Universal Thermal Climate Index (UTCI) was taken as an indicator of the analysed bioclimatic features. The influence of the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) on the variability of this index and its constituent meteorological elements, e.g. air temperature, vapour pressure, wind speed, and solar conditions, was examined. On the basis of the winter NAO Hurrell coefficient, the analysed years were divided into two opposing groups representing either a negative or positive Hurrell index. A comparison between these two year-groups for the mean values of UTCI and the examined meteorological elements showed a clear intergroup difference in these values. Except for cloudiness, the importance of the macrocirculation genesis of NAO was verified by the statistically significant correlation between the Hurrell index on the one hand and the tested UTCI index and its constituent meteorological elements on the other.
New high-resolution gridded dataset of daily mean, minimum, and maximum temperature and relative humidity for Central Europe (HYRAS)
Authors: Razafimaharo Christène , Krähenmann Stefan , Höpp Simona , Rauthe Monika , Deutschländer Thomas
Published: September 2020

This study presents daily high-resolution (5 km × 5 km) grids of mean, minimum, and maximum temperature and relative humidity for Germany and its catchment areas, from 1951 to 2015. These observational datasets (HYRAS) are based upon measurements gathered for Germany and its neighbouring countries, in total more than 1300 stations, gridded in two steps: first, the generation of a background field, using non-linear vertical temperature profiles, and then an inverse distance weighting scheme to interpolate the residuals, subsequently added onto the background field. The modified Euclidian distances used integrate elevation, distance to the coast, and urban heat island (UHI) effect. A direct station-grid comparison and cross-validation yield low errors for the temperature grids over most of the domain and greater deviations in more complex terrain. The interpolation of relative humidity is more uncertain due to its inherent spatial inhomogeneity and indirect derivation using dew point temperature. Compared with other gridded observational datasets, HYRAS benefits from its high resolution and captures complex topographic effects. HYRAS improves upon its predecessor by providing datasets for additional variables (minimum and maximum temperature), integrating temperature inversions, maritime influence and UHI effect, and representing a larger area. With a long-term observational dataset of multiple meteorological variables also including precipitation, various climatological analyses are possible. We present long-term historical climate trends and relevant indices of climate extremes, pointing towards a significantly warming climate over Germany, with no significant change in total precipitation. We also evaluate extreme events, specifically the summer heat waves of 2003 and 2015.
Impact of single vs. blended functional electrolyte additives on interphase formation and overall lithium ion battery performance
Authors: von Aspern Natascha , Wölke Christian , Börner Markus , Winter Martin , Cekic-Laskovic Isidora
Published: September 2020

Two functional high-voltage additives, namely 2-(2,2,3,3,3-pentafluoropropoxy)-1,3,2-dioxaphospholane (PFPOEPi) and 1-methyl-3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)-1H-pyrazole (MBTFMP) were combined as functional additive mixture in organic carbonate–based electrolyte formulation for high-voltage lithium battery application. Their impact on the overall performance in NMC111 cathode-based cells was compared with the single-additive–containing electrolyte counterpart. The obtained results point to similar cycling performance of the additive mixture containing electrolyte formulation compared with the MBTFMP-containing cells, whereas the single PFPOEPi-containing cells displayed the best cycling performance in NMC111||graphite cells. With regard to the cathode electrolyte interphase (CEI), characterized and analyzed by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), both the MBTFMP and the PFPOEPi functional additives decompose on the NMC111 surface in single-additive–containing electrolyte formulations. However, the thickness of the CEI formed in the additive mixture–containing electrolyte formulation is determined by the MBTFMP additive, whereas the PFPOEPi additive impacts a change in the composition of the CEI. Furthermore, the MBTFMP additive decomposes prior to the PFPOEPi and, therefore, dominates the cycling performance of NMC111||graphite cells containing functional additive mixture–based electrolyte. This systematic approach allows us to understand the synergistic impact of each functional additive in an electrolyte formulation containing an additive mixture and helps to identify the right additive combination for advanced electrolyte formulation as well as to elucidate whether the single-additive or the additive mixture approach is more effective for the development of advanced functional electrolytes for lithium-based cell chemistries.

Graphical abstract
Q-switched Nd-YAG laser alone and in combination with innovative hyaluronic acid gels improve keratinocytes wound healing in vitro
Authors: de Filippis Anna , D’Agostino Antonella , Pirozzi Anna Virginia Adriana , Tufano Maria Antonietta , Schiraldi Chiara , Baroni Adone
Published: September 2020

During the last years, several attempts have been accomplished to improve the wound healing. Device application aimed at enhancing skin ability to reconstruct its damaged sites through a proper dermal regenerative process. In particular, Q-switched Nd-YAG laser (Medlite C6 laser, Conbio, USA) applied with a fluence of 8 J/cm2, a pulse width of 5 ns, and a spot size of 4 mm exerts a photo-mechanical action that improve skin repair. Besides, hyaluronan hybrid cooperative complexes (HCC) widely exploited in dermoesthetic applications proved specific actions on keratinocytes and fibroblasts monolayer repair. We evaluated this specific laser treatment in vitro on a wound healing model based on human keratinocytes (HaCaT) alone and in combination with HCC. In addition, we evaluated key biomarkers of dermal repair. Scratched HaCaT monolayers were treated with laser and successively with HA-based formulations (HHA and HCC). For each treatment and the control samples, at least 3 different wells were analyzed. Wound closure was quantified, measuring five view filed for each well at increasing incubation time, exploiting time lapse videomicroscopy and image analysis, permitting to compare the different healing rate of treatments respect to control. By real-time PCR and western blotting, we evaluated biomarkers of wound regeneration, such as integrins, aquaporin three (AQP3), and proinflammatory cytokines. The ANOVA test was used to assess statistical significance of the results obtained. Laser-treated cells achieved wound closure in about 37 h, faster than the control, while when coupled to HCC, the complete reparation was obtained in 24 h. Integrin αV was upregulated by treatments, with in particular about four-fold increase respect to the control when HCC + laser was used. In addition, integrin β3 was upregulated by all treatments especially with the combination of laser and HCC proved more efficient than others (~ 14-folds). A slighter but significant increase of AQP3 gene expression of 61% was found for laser treatment while the latter combined with HCC determined an upregulation of 72%. By coupling laser treatment and HCC, further healing improvement and consistent biomarker modulation was observed. Our results may support clinical implementation of new dermatology protocols conjugating laser treatments with topical or injective HA formulations as a valid tool in treatments to repair scars or other skin defects.
New Excavations at Umhlatuzana Rockshelter, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa: a Stratigraphic and Taphonomic Evaluation
Authors: Sifogeorgaki Irini , Klinkenberg Victor , Esteban Irene , Murungi May , Carr Andrew S. , van den Brink Valentijn B. , Dusseldorp Gerrit L.
Published: September 2020

Umhlatuzana rockshelter has an occupation sequence spanning the last 70,000 years. It is one of the few sites with deposits covering the Middle to Later Stone Age transition (~40,000–30,000 years BP) in southern Africa. Comprehending the site’s depositional history and occupation sequence is thus important for the broader understanding of the development of Homo sapiens’ behavior. The rockshelter was first excavated in the 1980s by Jonathan Kaplan. He suggested that the integrity of the late Middle Stone Age and Later Stone Age sediments was compromised by large-scale sediment movement. In 2018, we initiated a high-resolution geoarchaeological study of the site to clarify the site formation processes. Here, we present the results of the excavation and propose a revised stratigraphic division of the Pleistocene sequence based on field observations, sedimentological (particle size) analyses, and cluster analysis. The taphonomy of the site is assessed through phytolith and geochemical (pH, loss on ignition, stable carbon isotope) analyses. The results indicate a consistent sedimentological environment characterized by in situ weathering. The analysis of the piece-plotted finds demonstrates semihorizontal layering of archaeologically dense zones and more sterile ones. There was no indication of large-scale postdepositional sediment movement. We show that the low-density archaeological horizons in the upper part of the Pleistocene sequence are best explained by the changing patterns of sedimentation rate.
Melancholy of the Law
Authors: Tacik Przemyslaw
Published: September 2020

The paper attempts to construct a theoretical account of what melancholy—in a psychoanalytical and cultural sense—may mean for jurisprudence. It argues that the map of relations and displacements between the object and the subject that is associated with melancholy in different psychoanalytical approaches can be fruitfully adopted for understanding of normativity. Based on a thorough re-reading of Freud’s Trauer und Melancholie (Mourning and Melancholy), it suggests that there is an irremovable component of melancholy contained in the primordial act of separation of normativity from non-normative reality. This interpretation is confronted with Kelsen’s Theory of Pure Law in order to analyse in which respect the momentum of self-sufficiency within normativity entails structures of melancholy. Kelsen’s concept of ‘effectiveness’ is proposed as a key link which explains how melancholic withdrawal allows the law to interact with reality. Then the paper discusses Agamben’s theory of applicability and of the state of exception to demonstrate the law’s melancholic trap. Finally, the paper draws on Lacanian and post-Lacanian approaches to melancholy in order to investigate how melancholic momentum is inherent in the very structure of the law’s validity.
Land-use legacies of twentieth-century forestry in the UK: a perspective
Authors: Raum Susanne
Published: September 2020

Context

Complex interactions between societies and their environment have shaped landscapes across Europe over centuries. Therefore, taking a historical perspective can be important when designing new forestry policy and management activities.

Objectives

This perspective aims to improve our appreciation of how a better historical understanding of landscapes can increase our understanding of current conditions and inform current and future policy and practice. I provide a perspective on land-use legacies and forest change, with a particular emphasis on landscapes, and using the example of forestry in the United Kingdom.

Methods

For this purpose, I undertook a comprehensive review of scholarly forestry literature and of relevant policy and legal documents in the UK, covering the last 100 years.

Results

This brief review of the dynamics of forest landscapes in the UK over the last 100 years, shows that certain decisions, policies and management activities had major effects on the landscape, especially in terms of landscape patterns and species distribution, constraining it until today. Historic research investigated some of these legacies, leading to real change in policy and management, including a Broadleaved Policy, an Ancient Woodland Inventory, habitat restoration, habitat network and rewilding schemes. Research on past experiences of Dutch Elm disease in the UK and of similar outbreaks in other countries have guided responses to today’s tree pest/disease outbreaks and plant trade decisions.

Conclusion

A better appreciation of past decisions and activities, especially in forestry, helps to anticipate landscape legacy effects and potential cross-scale interactions of new policies and practices. It may also help to better justify and negotiate new decisions and long-term planning among multiple actors.
Flexible Utility Function Approximation via Cubic Bezier Splines
Authors: Lee Sangil , Glaze Chris M. , Bradlow Eric T. , Kable Joseph W.
Published: September 2020

In intertemporal and risky choice decisions, parametric utility models are widely used for predicting choice and measuring individuals’ impulsivity and risk aversion. However, parametric utility models cannot describe data deviating from their assumed functional form. We propose a novel method using cubic Bezier splines (CBS) to flexibly model smooth and monotonic utility functions that can be fit to any dataset. CBS shows higher descriptive and predictive accuracy over extant parametric models and can identify common yet novel patterns of behavior that are inconsistent with extant parametric models. Furthermore, CBS provides measures of impulsivity and risk aversion that do not depend on parametric model assumptions.
A Partially Confirmatory Approach to the Multidimensional Item Response Theory with the Bayesian Lasso
Authors: Chen Jinsong
Published: September 2020

For test development in the setting of multidimensional item response theory, the exploratory and confirmatory approaches lie on two ends of a continuum in terms of the loading and residual structures. Inspired by the recent development of the Bayesian Lasso (least absolute shrinkage and selection operator), this research proposes a partially confirmatory approach to estimate both structures using Bayesian regression and a covariance Lasso within a unified framework. The Bayesian hierarchical formulation is implemented using Markov chain Monte Carlo estimation, and the shrinkage parameters are estimated simultaneously. The proposed approach with different model variants and constraints was found to be flexible in addressing loading selection and local dependence. Both simulated and real-life data were analyzed to evaluate the performance of the proposed model across different situations.
Host plant selection and virus transmission by Rhopalosiphum maidis are conditioned by potyvirus infection in Sorghum bicolor
Authors: Klein Peter , Smith C. Michael
Published: September 2020

Many plant viruses are significant pathogens that are able to utilize arthropod vectors to infect a vast range of host plants, resulting in serious economic damage to world food crops. One such crop is Sorghum bicolor, grain sorghum, which is the fifth most important global cereal crop, it is grown for human consumption, animal feed, and biofuel. In this study, the Potyviruses Johnsongrass mosaic virus (JGMV), Maize dwarf mosaic virus (MDMV), Sugarcane mosaic virus (SCMV), and Sorghum mosaic virus (SRMV) were tested for their rates of transmission into tissues of S. bicolor by the corn leaf aphid, Rhopalosiphum maidis. In addition, virus infected and non-infected S. bicolor plants were assessed for their effects on R. maidis host plant selection behavior. Further, the propagation of each virus (viral ssRNA copy number) in infected plants was determined using qPCR amplification of viral coating protein gene fragments. The mean rate of JGMV transmission into S. bicolor plants by R. maidis was significantly lower than transmission of MDMV, SCMV, and/or SRMV. Sorghum bicolor plants infected with MDMV, SCMV or SRMV also attract significantly more R. maidis than non-infected plants. JGMV-infected plants do not effect a similar change in R. maidis plant choice preference. The preference of non-viruliferous R. maidis toward S. bicolor plants infected with MDMV, SCMV or SRMV, and lack of such attraction by JGMV-infected plants may play a role in virus transmission strategy and efficiency by the vector.
Anti-Exceptionalism About Requirements of Epistemic Rationality
Authors: Field Claire
Published: September 2020

I argue for the unexceptionality of evidence about what rationality requires. Specifically, I argue that, as for other topics, one’s total evidence can sometimes support false beliefs about this. Despite being prima facie innocuous, a number of philosophers have recently denied this. Some have argued that the facts about what rationality requires are highly dependent on the agent’s situation and change depending on what that situation is like (Bradley,Philosophers’ Imprint,19(3). 2019). Others have argued that a particular subset of normative truths, those concerning what epistemic rationality requires, have the special property of being ‘fixed points’—it is impossible to have total evidence that supports false belief about them (Smithies,Philosophy and Phenomenological Research, 85(2). 2012; Titelbaum 2015). Each of these kinds of exceptionality permits a solution to downstream theoretical problems that arise from the possibility of evidence supporting false belief about requirements of rationality. However, as I argue here, they incur heavy explanatory burdens that we should avoid.
Geoheritage and Resilience of Dallol and the Northern Danakil Depression in Ethiopia
Authors: Vereb Viktor , van Wyk de Vries Benjamin , Hagos Miruts , Karátson Dávid
Published: September 2020

The Danakil Depression, located in the northern segment of the Afar rift, is a world-class example of active rifting and the birth of a new ocean. The unique, yet only partially interpreted geothermal system of Dallol in northern Danakil is currently receiving renewed attention by researchers and visitors despite its extreme climate since the recent improvements of infrastructure and the stabilisation of Ethio-Eritrean political relations. Previous studies focused on the general geological description, the economic exploitation of potash reserves and interpretation of the complex hydrothermal processes. Continuing monitoring of geothermal activity has not yet been carried out, and the valorisation of local geoheritage has not accompanied the increased interest of tourists. Here, we present a three-step study in order to demonstrate the unique geological environment and international geoheritage significance of Dallol and Danakil. A three-year-long remote sensing campaign has been done to provide information on improving the resilience of visitors through interpreted, monthly hazard maps, and on following up the changes of geothermal activity. Over the same time, the first geoheritage assessment of the region for 13 geosites was carried out along with a comparative analysis of three quantitative methods (to evaluate the scientific importance and the geotouristic development potential of the area). Finally, with the input of the assessment, a preliminary geoheritage management plan was created for practical consideration by stakeholders toward a geoconservation and geotourism development, as well as a resilience system of this peculiar area.
On metal and ‘spoiled’ wine: analysing psimythion (synthetic cerussite) pellets (5th–3rd centuries BCE) and hypothesising gas-metal reactions over a fermenting liquid within a Greek pot
Authors: Photos-Jones E. , Bots P. , Oikonomou E. , Hamilton A. , Knapp C. W.
Published: September 2020

A Pb-based synthetic mineral referred to aspsimythion(pl.psimythia) was manufactured in the Greek world at least since the 6th c BCE and routinely by the 4th c BCE. Theophrastus (On Stones, 56) describes its preparation from metallic Pb suspended over a fermenting liquid. Psimythion is considered the precursor of one of western art’s most prominent white pigments, i.e. lead white (basic lead carbonate or synthetic hydrocerussite). However, so far, and for that early period, published analyses of psimythia suggest that they consisted primarily of synthetic cerussite. In this paper, we set out to investigate how it was possible to manufacture pure cerussite, to the near exclusion of other phases. We examined the chemical and mineralogical composition (pXRF/XRD) of a small number of psimythion pellets found within ceramic pots (pyxis) from Athens and Boeotia (5th–4th c BCE) in the collection of the National Archaeological Museum (NAM), Athens. Analyses showed that the NAM pellets consisted primarily of Pb/cerussite with small amounts of Ca (some samples) and a host of metallic trace elements. We highlight the reference in the Theophrastus text to ‘spoiled wine’ (oxos), rather than ‘vinegar’, as has been previously assumed, the former including a strong biotic component. We carried out DNA sequencing of the pellets in an attempt to establish presence of microorganisms (Acetic Acid Bacteria). None was found. Subsequently, and as a working hypothesis, we propose a series of (biotic/abiotic) reactions which were likely to have taken place in the liquid and vapour phases and on the metal surface. The hypothesis aims to demonstrate that CO2would be microbially induced and would increase, as a function of time, resulting in cerussite forming over and above hydrocerussite/other Pb-rich phases. Psimythion has for long been valued as a white pigment. What has perhaps been not adequately appreciated is the depth of empirical understanding from the part of psimythion manufacturers of the reactions between abiotic and biotic components within ‘oxos’/pot, as key drivers of minerals synthesis. Ultimately, psimythion manufacture may rest in understanding the nature of ‘oxos’, antiquity’s relatively little researched strongest acid.
Adsorption of lead ions on magnetically separable Fe3O4 watermelon composite
Authors: Adebowale Kayode , Egbedina Abisola , Shonde Blessed
Published: September 2020

The search for green methods for the synthesis of eco-friendly and sustainable materials is the focus of many studies. In this paper, magnetite nanoparticles (WM-Fe3O4) were synthesized using watermelon rind as a stabilizing agent and their adsorption capacity for the removal of lead ions was evaluated. The synthesized WM-Fe3O4 was characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. Adsorption capacity and mechanism of WM-Fe3O4 for the removal of lead ions from water were evaluated. The adsorption isotherms data were well described by both Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms showing the heterogeneous nature of the adsorbent. Adsorption kinetics followed the pseudo-second-order model which confirmed the heterogeneity of the adsorbent and shows that adsorption followed chemisorption. Adsorption capacity was found to be 138 mg/g for lead. The initial solution pH had an influence on the adsorption. The removal efficiency decreased after pH 7. Effect of varying adsorbent mass indicates that a low dosage is required thereby favouring industrial scale up. The adsorption of lead ions was mainly controlled by electrostatic attraction and polar interactions. This adsorbent has potentials for the efficient capture of heavy metals with possibilities for the future replacement of expensive adsorbents.
Reduction of distortion by using the low transformation temperature effect for high alloy steels in electron beam welding
Authors: Akyel F. , Olschok S. , Reisgen U.
Published: September 2020

Residual stress and distortion of welded specimens are issues when it comes to geometrical requirements. The surrounding material prevents the dilatation associated with transformation in the area of heat input resulting in residual stress and distortion due to thermal contraction. In the past few years, low transformation temperature (LTT) material was successfully used as filler wire to reduce residual stress as well as distortion in the weld seam in arc welding processes. High alloy Fe-based filler materials with levels of chromium and nickel ensure a martensitic transformation at reduced temperatures in a low alloy base material. The LTT properties counteract the accumulation of stresses due to thermal contraction with compressive stresses that develop within the transformed region. This work used a high alloy base material in combination with a low alloy filler wire resulting in a microstructure that shows the same properties as LTT weld metals. This in situ alloying allows for an alloy composition tailored to the process. In order to provide a point of reference, comparable welds were made using conventional high alloy filler wire. As a result, the distortion and longitudinal residual stress was significantly reduced compared to welding with conventional filler wire.
Using caputo-fabrizio derivative for the transmission of mathematical model epidemic Corona Virus
Authors: Tahir M. , Zaman G. , Shah S. I. A
Published: September 2020

Just in a week a rapidly spreading corona virus which was originated in Wuhan, city of China, infected more than 20,000 people and also killed at least 427 people in that week worldwide. Corona virus is transmissible and spreading from person to person, while the Chinese commanded authorities are scrambling to treat a flood of new patients in Chines successfully. The said Corona virus has been spread from an initial outbreak in Wuhan, city of China, and invade 25 other worldwide countries. In this article, we considered the mathematical model (Chen et al. Infect Dis Poverty,https://doi.org/10.1186/s40249-020-00640-3) in which Bats-Hosts-Reservoir-People and their transmission was taken, while we introduced the population of susceptible Bats and visitors to Wuhan city or any country in same mathematical model. Now we studying two types of populations first Bats-Hosts-Reservoir-People (Chen et al. Infect Dis Poverty,https://doi.org/10.1186/s40249-020-00640-3, also introducing susceptible Bats and second visitors to Wuhan city, china or any country in the same model. We used Caputo-Fabrizio derivative with provided result that the addition of susceptible Bats and visitors are not responsible in spread of infection. The numerical result also supported our model.
Hydrochemical characteristics and water quality evaluation of shallow groundwater in Suxian mining area, Huaibei coalfield, China
Authors: Yu Hao , Gui Herong , Zhao Honghai , Wang Meichen , Li Jun , Fang Hongxia , Jiang Yaqi , Zhang Yaru
Published: September 2020

The aim of this study is to evaluate the hydrogeochemical characteristics and water environmental quality of shallow groundwater in the Suxian mining area of Huaibei coalfield, China. The natural formation process of shallow groundwater in Suxian is explored using Piper trilinear charts and Gibbs diagrams, and by examining the ratios between the major ions. United States Salinity Laboratory (USSL) charts, Wilcox diagrams, and the water quality index (WQI) are further employed to quantify the differences in water quality. The results reveal that the main hydrochemical facies of groundwater are HCO3–Ca, and that silicate dissolution is the main factor controlling the ion content in shallow groundwater. The USSL charts and Wilcox diagrams show that most of the water samples would be acceptable for use in irrigation systems. The WQI results for each water sample are compared and analyzed, and the quality of groundwater samples around collapse ponds is found to be relatively poor.
Understanding of mineral change mechanisms in coal mine groundwater reservoir and their influences on effluent water quality: a experimental study
Authors: Zhang Kai , Li Huifang , Han Jiaming , Jiang Binbin , Gao Ju
Published: September 2020

This paper presents results of an experimental study to characterize the law of mineral change of fallen rock in coal mine groundwater reservoir ant its influence on water quality. The minerals of the underground reservoir of Daliuta Coal Mine is taken as the research object. Simulation experiments were designed and conducted to simulate water–rock action in the laboratory. The mineral composition was analyzed by X-ray diffractometer (XRD), the surface morphology of the mineral was analyzed by scanning electron microscope (SEM), and the specific surface area, total pore volume and average pore diameter of the mineral were measured by fast specific surface/pore analyzer (BET). The experimental results show that the sandstone and mudstone in the groundwater reservoir of Daliuta Coal Mine account for 70% and 30%, respectively. The pore diameter is 15.62–17.55 nm, and pore volume is 0.035 cc/g. Its pore structure is a key factor in the occurrence of water–rock interaction. According to the water–rock simulation experiment, the quartz content before the water–rock action is about 34.28%, the albite is about 21.84%, the feldspar is about 17.48%, and the kaolinite is about 8.00%. After the water–rock action, they are 36.14%, 17.78%, 11.62%, and 16.75%, respectively. The content of albite and orthoclase is reduced while the content of kaolinite is increased, that is, the Na+ content becomes higher, and the Ca2+ and Mg2+ contents become lower. This research builds a good theoretical foundation for revealing the role of water and rock in underground coal reservoirs.
Comparison of MODIS- and CALIPSO-Derived Temporal Aerosol Optical Depth over Yellow River Basin (China) from 2007 to 2015
Authors: Zhang Ziyue , Zhang Miao , Bilal Muhammad , Su Bo , Zhang Chun , Guo Liuna
Published: September 2020

In this study, Collection 6.1 (C6.1) of different aerosol optical depth (AOD) products of different spatial resolutions were used from the aqua moderate resolution imaging spectroradiometer (MODIS) including dark target (DT), deep blue (DB), deep blue (DB), and DT-DB (DTB). These products were compared with cloud-aerosol lidar, and infrared pathfinder satellite observation (CALIPSO) AOD retrievals over the Yellow River Basin (YERB), China from 2003 to 2017. The YERB was divided into three sub-regions, namely YERB1 (the mountainous terrain in the upper reaches of the YERB), YERB2 (the Loess Plateau region in the middle reaches of the YERB), and YERB3 (the plain region downstream of the YERB). Errors and agreement between MODIS and CALIPSO data were reported using Pearson’s correlation (R) and relative mean bias (RMB). Results showed that the CALIPSO whole layers AOD (AODS) were better matched with MODIS AOD than the CALIPSO lowest layer AOD (AOD1). The time series of AOD shows higher values in spring and summer, and a small difference in AOD products was observed in autumn. The overall average value of CALIPSO AOD and MODIS AOD both fitted the order: YERB3 > YERB2 > YERB1. The CALIPSO AOD retrievals have the best consistency with the DTB10K and the lowest consistency with DT3K. Overall, the regional distributions of the CALIPSO AOD and MODIS AOD are significantly different over the YERB, and the difference is closely related to the season, region, and topography. This study can help researchers understand the difference of aerosol temporal and spatial distribution utilizing different satellite products over YERB, and also can provide data and technical support for the government in atmospheric environmental governance over YERB.
Social context and culture influence judgments of non-Duchenne smiles
Authors: Namba Shushi , Rychlowska Magdalena , Orlowska Anna , Aviezer Hillel , Krumhuber Eva G.
Published: September 2020

Extant evidence points toward the role of contextual information and related cross-cultural variations in emotion perception, but most of the work to date has focused on judgments of basic emotions. The current research examines how culture and situational context affect the interpretation of emotion displays, i.e. judgments of the extent to which ambiguous smiles communicate happiness versus polite intentions. We hypothesized that smiles associated with contexts implying happiness would be judged as conveying more positive feelings compared to smiles paired with contexts implying politeness or smiles presented without context. In line with existing research on cross-cultural variation in contextual influences, we also expected these effects to be larger in Japan than in the UK. In Study 1, British participants viewed non-Duchenne smiles presented on their own or paired with background scenes implying happiness or the need to be polite. Compared to face-only stimuli, happy contexts made smiles appear more genuine, whereas polite contexts led smiles to be seen as less genuine. Study 2 replicated this result using verbal vignettes, showing a similar pattern of contextual effects among British and Japanese participants. However, while the effects of vignettes describing happy situations was comparable in both cultures, the influence of vignettes describing polite situations was stronger in Japan than the UK. Together, the findings document the importance of context information in judging smile expressions and highlight the need to investigate how culture moderates such influences.
Vitamin D baseline levels at diagnosis of breast cancer
Authors: Voutsadakis Ioannis A.
Published: September 2020

Background:

Vitamin D is a steroid hormone that exerts its actions through ligation of the vitamin D receptor (VDR), a transcription factor of the nuclear receptor family. VDR has not only physiologic actions in calcium metabolism but also several other cellular effects through extensive binding to the DNA and modification of genome expression. In cancer, it has neoplasia-suppressive effects and various mechanisms of action mediating cancer cell inhibition have been described. Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to increased risk of breast cancer. A role of the vitamin once the disease has been diagnosed is also probable.

Methods:

A systematic review and meta-analysis of studies that report on vitamin D levels (in the form of its main circulating metabolite, 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25-OHD]) in patients with newly diagnosed breast cancer was performed. Outcomes of interest included the levels of serum 25-OHD in patients with breast cancer, those of matched controlled, in studies that included controls, as well as respective percentages of patients and controls with deficient and insufficient 25-OHD levels.

Results:

A total of 25 studies (10 with controls and 15 without controls) provided data on the outcomes of interest. Populations from all continents, besides Australia, were represented in the studies. The mean level of 25-OHD in patients with breast cancer was 26.88 ng/mL (95% CI 22.8–30.96 ng/mL) and the mean level of 25-OHD in control patients was 31.41 ng/mL (95% CI 19.31–43.5 ng/mL). In the patients with breast cancer group, 45.28% (95% CI 24.37%–53.51%) had levels of 25-OHD below 20 ng/mL, whereas this percentage was 33.71% (95% CI 21.61%–45.82%) in controls. Similarly, 67.44% (95% CI 48.32%–86.55%) of patients with breast cancer had a baseline level of 25-OHD below 30 ng/mL, whereas this percentage was 33.71% (95% CI 21.61%–45.82%) in controls.

Conclusion:

A high prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency is observed in patients with newly diagnosed breast cancer and may be linked pathophysiologically with breast cancer development or progression. Therapeutic benefits may be provided by manipulation of the vitamin D pathway in breast cancer.
Feedback of Slab Distortion on Volcanic Arc Evolution: Geochemical Perspective From Late Cenozoic Volcanism in SW Japan
Authors: Nguyen Tai Truong , Kitagawa Hiroshi , Pineda‐Velasco Ivan , Nakamura Eizo
Published: September 2020

Southwest Japan is an island arc formed by subduction of the Philippine Sea (PHS) plate. The Quaternary magmatism in this region is characterized by eruptions of high‐Sr andesites and dacites, considered to have been derived by melting of the PHS plate. The loci of these volcanoes spatially coincide with seismic discontinuities of the subducted PHS plate. Thus, the magmatism is interpreted as the result of slab melting at the plate tears. However, the processes that promote slab tearing remain unclear. In this study, we applied geochronological and geochemical analyses to late Cenozoic volcanic rocks in southwest Japan as tracers of slab morphology. Two different magma types, ocean‐island basalt (OIB) and island‐arc basalt (IAB), have occurred over 12 million years (Myr). These two magmas are attributed to different integrations of melts extracted from an originally fertile mantle; the OIBs from high temperature melt (1,300–1,400°C) were extracted at a depth of 40–80 km, whereas the IABs were extracted from a shallower, lower temperature region (30–60 km, 1,200–1,350°C). Secular change in Sr enrichment of IAB likely arose due to a transition of slab‐derived fluids, incorporated into magmas as they formed, from water‐ to melt‐dominant one. Progressive shallowing of the subducted PHS plate is responsible for secular change in the properties of slab‐derived fluids as well as rollback of OIB volcanoes. Production of chemically variable magmas in the Chugoku district is the surface expression of distorting slab morphology by interaction between mantle and the subducting plate.