bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The roles and potential of lentil prebiotic carbohydrates in human and plant health
Authors: Johnson Nathan , Johnson Casey R. , Thavarajah Pushparajah , Kumar Shiv , Thavarajah Dil
Published: March 2020

Societal Impact Statement

Lentils are not only rich in protein and micronutrients, but they also have significant amounts of prebiotic carbohydrates, which provide benefits to human health. Beneficial microorganisms ferment lentil prebiotic carbohydrates in the colon, which impart gut health benefits to the consumer. In addition, prebiotic carbohydrates provide benefits to lentil plant health through their roles in carbon transport, storage, and abiotic stress tolerance. Advantageous to both human and plant health, prebiotic carbohydrates should be a prominent target for breeding efforts to improve lentil as a crop, as well as its nutritional value to consumers.

Summary

Diet‐related ailments, such as obesity and micronutrient deficiencies, have global adverse impacts on society. Lentil is an important staple crop, especially in South Asia and Africa, and has been associated with the prevention of chronic illnesses, including type II diabetes, obesity, and cancer. Lentil, a cool‐season food legume, is rich in protein and micronutrients while also containing a range of prebiotic carbohydrates, such as raffinose family oligosaccharides (RFOs), fructooligosaccharides, sugar alcohols (SAs), and resistant starch (RS), which contribute to lentil's health benefits. Prebiotic carbohydrates are fermented by beneficial microorganisms in the colon, which impart health benefits to the consumer. Prebiotic carbohydrates are also vital to lentil plant health, being associated with carbon transport/storage and abiotic stress tolerance. Important to both human and plant health, prebiotic carbohydrates in lentil are a prominent candidate for nutrigenomic breeding efforts. New lentil cultivars could help to combat global health problems, while also proving resilient to climate change. The objectives of this review are to: (a) discuss the benefits lentil prebiotic carbohydrates confer to human and plant health; (b) describe the biosynthesis pathways of two prominent prebiotic carbohydrate families in lentil, RFOs and SAs; and (c) consider the potential of prebiotic carbohydrates in terms of future nutritional breeding efforts.
Variability in the Log Domain and Limitations to Its Approximation by the Normal Distribution
Authors: Elassaiss‐Schaap Jeroen , Duisters Kevin
Published: March 2020

Pharmacometric models using lognormal distributions have become commonplace in pharmacokinetic–pharmacodynamic investigations. The extent to which it can be interpreted by traditional description of variability through the normal distribution remains elusive. In this tutorial, the comparison is made using formal approximation methods. The quality of the resulting approximation was assessed by the similarity of prediction intervals (PIs) to true values, illustrated using 80% PIs. Approximated PIs were close to true values when lognormal standard deviation (omega) was smaller than about 0.25, depending mostly on the desired precision. With increasing omega values, the precision of approximation worsens and starts to deteriorate at omega values of about 1. With such high omega values, there is no resemblance between the lognormal and normal distribution anymore. To support dissemination and interpretation of these nonlinear properties, some additional statistics are discussed in the context of the three regions of behavior of the lognormal distribution.
An analytic framework for exploring sampling and observation process biases in genome and phenome‐wide association studies using electronic health records
Authors: Beesley Lauren J. , Fritsche Lars G. , Mukherjee Bhramar
Published: March 2020

Large‐scale association analyses based on observational health care databases such as electronic health records have been a topic of increasing interest in the scientific community. However, challenges due to nonprobability sampling and phenotype misclassification associated with the use of these data sources are often ignored in standard analyses. The extent of the bias introduced by ignoring these factors is not well‐characterized. In this paper, we develop an analytic framework for characterizing the bias expected in disease‐gene association studies based on electronic health records when disease status misclassification and the sampling mechanism are ignored. Through a sensitivity analysis approach, this framework can be used to obtain plausible values for parameters of interest given summary results from standard analysis. We develop an online tool for performing this sensitivity analysis. Simulations demonstrate promising properties of the proposed method. We apply our approach to study bias in disease‐gene association studies using electronic health record data from the Michigan Genomics Initiative, a longitudinal biorepository effort within The University Michigan health system.
Performance analysis of rocking shear wall‐frame structure
Authors: Xia Guiyun
Published: March 2020

Incorporating the shear deformation effect of the shear wall and the restrained moment effect of the link beam, a continuum model is presented to conduct the preliminary analysis of the rocking shear wall‐frame structure. It can be applicable to fixed/hinged systems with link beams fixed/hinged at the ends and to clamped/rocking shear wall‐frame structures with clamped/rocking shear wall at the base. Its comprehension can improve the accuracy and integrality of the analytical theory for shear wall‐frame structures. Analytical solutions to three loading scenarios are derived and make manual computation possible. A finite element with the analytical solutions as the shape functions is presented. This formulation is convenient to analyze the stepped shear wall‐frame structures with variable cross sections along the height and under complicated loads. The frequency equations and mode shapes are also derived. Numerical examples demonstrate the accuracy and excellent predictions of the present model and the finite element formulation.
Prevalence of negative sliding sign representing pouch of Douglas obliteration during pelvic transvaginal ultrasound for any indication
Authors: Leonardi M. , Martins W. P. , Espada M. , Georgousopoulou E. , Condous G.
Published: March 2020

Objectives

Pouch of Douglas (POD) obliteration can be predicted with a high degree of certainty and reproducibility using the dynamic transvaginal ultrasound (TVS) sliding‐sign technique. So far, studies on POD obliteration prediction have focused on tertiary‐care populations with high prevalence of endometriosis; however, POD obliteration may exist in individuals with asymptomatic endometriosis or other conditions. Our primary aim was to determine the prevalence of a negative sliding sign, representing POD obliteration, in a cohort of patients undergoing TVS for any gynecological indication.

Methods

This was a prospective observational study of consecutive women with an indication for gynecological TVS, conducted at a high‐volume ultrasound practice between July and August 2018. Clinical and surgical history, indication for TVS and TVS findings were documented. The prevalence of TVS‐confirmed POD obliteration, determined by interpretation of the sliding sign, was calculated for the entire cohort and for the subgroups of women with and without risk factors for endometriosis. High risk for endometriosis was defined as having (1) a TVS referral for endometriosis‐like pelvic pain or endometriosis specifically and/or (2) clinical symptoms or signs suggestive of endometriosis. Low risk was defined as the absence of these characteristics.

Results

During the study period, 1043 consecutive women underwent TVS. After excluding those who underwent transabdominal ultrasound, had a history of hysterectomy or with missing data, 909 women were analyzed. The prevalence of a negative sliding sign in the entire cohort was 47/909 (5.2%). A negative sliding sign was observed in 22/639 (3.4%) women with a low risk for endometriosis and 25/243 (10.3%) of those with a high risk for endometriosis (difference in proportions, 6.9% (95% CI 2.8–10.9%); P < 0.001).

Conclusions

We have demonstrated an overall prevalence of a negative sliding sign, suggesting POD obliteration, of 5.2% (or 1/20) in women seeking TVS for a gynecological indication. The prevalence of negative sliding sign in low‐risk women is not negligible (3.4% or 1/29 women). These women are most likely to have asymptomatic endometriosis or another important etiology of POD obliteration. The prevalence of a negative sliding sign is approximately three‐times higher in women with signs and/or symptoms of endometriosis (10.3% vs 3.4%). Copyright © 2020 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Analytical and numerical fluid–structure interaction study of a microscale piezoelectric wind energy harvester
Authors: Alaei Elham , Afrasiab Hamed , Dardel Morteza
Published: March 2020

In this paper, an analytical approach and two numerical models have been developed to study an energy‐harvesting device for micropower generation. This device uses wind energy to oscillate a cantilevered beam attached to a piezoelectric layer for generating electric energy output. The analytical approach and the first numerical model consider the fluid–structure interaction phenomenon in the harvester performance. The equations governing beam oscillations and airflow have been coupled to a set of four differential equations in the analytical approach. This set of equations has been solved to determine the beam deflection and the air pressure variation with time. The numerical methods have been conducted by employing a commercial software. The results of the analytical method and the first numerical model have been compared in different working conditions, and their credibility has been discussed. In the second numerical model, the electromechanical performance of the piezoelectric material has also been incorporated in the harvester device analysis. This model has been verified against experimental data for the output voltage and power of the device available in the literature. Finally, the effect of different geometrical parameters has been studied on the harvester performance, and suggestions have been made to improve the harvester efficiency.
Bootstrapping line defects in $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 2 theories
Authors: Gimenez-Grau Aleix , Liendo Pedro
Published: March 2020

Abstract

We study half-BPS line defects in $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 2 superconformal theories using the bootstrap approach. We concentrate on local excitations constrained to the defect, which means the system is a 1d defect CFT with osp(4∗|2) symmetry. In order to study correlation functions we construct a suitable superspace, and then use the Casimir approach to calculate a collection of new superconformal blocks. Special emphasis is given to the displacement operator, which controls deformations orthogonal to the defect and is always present in a defect CFT. After setting up the crossing equations we proceed with a numerical and analytical bootstrap analysis. We obtain numerical bounds on the CFT data and compare them to known solutions. We also present an analytic perturbative solution to the crossing equations, and argue that this solution captures line defects in $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 2 gauge theories at strong coupling.
On the effective properties of foams in the framework of the couple stress theory
Authors: Skrzat Andrzej , Eremeyev Victor A.
Published: March 2020

In the framework of the couple stress theory, we discuss the effective elastic properties of a metal open-cell foam. In this theory, we have the couple stress tensor, but the microrotations are fully described by displacements. To this end, we performed calculations for a representative volume element which give the matrices of elastic moduli relating stress and stress tensors with strain and microcurvature tensors.
Quantification of diacylglycerol and triacylglycerol species in human fecal samples by flow injection Fourier transform mass spectrometry
Authors: Ertl Verena M. , Höring Marcus , Schött Hans-Frieder , Blücher Christina , Kjølbæk Louise , Astrup Arne , Burkhardt Ralph , Liebisch Gerhard
Published: March 2020

The intestinal microbiome plays an important role in human health and disease and fecal materials reflect the microbial activity. Thus, analysis of fecal metabolites provides insight in metabolic interactions between gut microbiota and host organism. In this work, we applied flow injection analysis coupled to Fourier transform mass spectrometry (FIA-FTMS) to identify and quantify lipid species in human fecal samples. Fecal homogenates were subjected to lipid extraction and analyzed by FIA-FTMS. The analysis of different subjects revealed a vast heterogeneity of lipid species abundance. The majority of samples displayed prominent signals of triacylglycerol (TG) and diacylglycerol (DG) species that could be verified by MS2 spectra. Therefore, we focused on the quantification of TG and DG. Method validation included limit of quantification, linearity, evaluation of matrix effects, recovery, and reproducibility. The validation experiments demonstrated the suitability of the method, with exception for approximately 10% of samples, where we observed coefficients of variation higher than 15%. Impaired reproducibility was related to sample inhomogeneity and could not be improved by additional sample preparation steps. Additionally, these experiments demonstrated that compared with aqueous samples, samples containing isopropanol showed higher amounts of DG, presumably due to lysis of bacteria and increased TG lipolysis. These effects were sample-specific and substantiate the high heterogeneity of fecal materials as well as the need for further evaluation of pre-analytic conditions. In summary, FIA-FTMS offers a fast and accurate tool to quantify DG and TG species and is suitable to provide insight into the fecal lipidome and its role in health and disease.
Self-assembly of robust gold nanoparticle monolayer architectures for quantitative protein interaction analysis by LSPR spectroscopy
Authors: Flesch Julia , Kappen Marie , Drees Christoph , You Changjiang , Piehler Jacob
Published: March 2020

Localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) detection offers highly sensitive label-free detection of biomolecular interactions. Simple and robust surface architectures compatible with real-time detection in a flow-through system are required for broad application in quantitative interaction analysis. Here, we established self-assembly of a functionalized gold nanoparticle (AuNP) monolayer on a glass substrate for stable, yet reversible immobilization of Histidine-tagged proteins. To this end, one-step coating of glass substrates with poly-L-lysine graft poly(ethylene glycol) functionalized with ortho-pyridyl disulfide (PLL-PEG-OPSS) was employed as a reactive, yet biocompatible monolayer to self-assemble AuNP into a LSPR active monolayer. Site-specific, reversible immobilization of His-tagged proteins was accomplished by coating the AuNP monolayer with tris-nitrilotriacetic acid (trisNTA) PEG disulfide. LSPR spectroscopy detection of protein binding on these biocompatible functionalized AuNP monolayers confirms high stability under various harsh analytical conditions. These features were successfully employed to demonstrate unbiased kinetic analysis of cytokine-receptor interactions.
Human ovarian cancer intrinsic mechanisms regulate lymphocyte activation in response to immune checkpoint blockade
Authors: Natoli Marina , Bonito Nair , Robinson James D. , Ghaem-Maghami Sadaf , Mao Yumeng
Published: March 2020

Immune checkpoint blocking antibodies are currently being tested in ovarian cancer (OC) patients and have shown some responses in early clinical trials. However, it remains unclear how human OC cancer cells regulate lymphocyte activation in response to therapy. In this study, we have established and optimised an in vitro tumour-immune co-culture system (TICS), which is specifically designed to quantify the activation of multiple primary human lymphocyte subsets and human cancer cell killing in response to PD-1/L1 blockade. Human OC cell lines and treatment naïve patient ascites show differential effects on lymphocyte activation and respond differently to PD-1 blocking antibody nivolumab in TICS. Using paired OC cell lines established prior to and after chemotherapy relapse, our data reveal that the resistant cells express low levels of HLA and respond poorly to nivolumab, relative to the treatment naïve cells. In accordance, knockdown of IFNγ receptor expression compromises response to nivolumab in the treatment naïve OC cell line, while enhanced HLA expression induced by a DNA methyltransferase inhibitor promotes lymphocyte activation in TICS. Altogether, our results suggest a ‘cross resistance’ model, where the acquired chemotherapy resistance in cancer cells may confer resistance to immune checkpoint blockade therapy through down-regulation of antigen presentation machinery. As such, agents that can restore HLA expression may be a suitable combination partner for immunotherapy in chemotherapy-relapsed human ovarian cancer patients.
Radiation exposure during retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS): a prospective multicenter evaluation
Authors: Hein Simon , Wilhelm Konrad , Miernik Arkadiusz , Schoenthaler Martin , Suarez-Ibarrola Rodrigo , Gratzke Christian , Salem Johannes , Karapanos Leonidas , Netsch Christopher , Becker Benedikt , Secker Armin , Veser Julian , Neisius Andreas , Fritsche Hans-Martin , Schnabel Marco Julius
Published: March 2020

Purpose

Retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) may require extensive X-ray usage. We evaluated the impact of preoperative surgeon briefing regarding the inclusion and evaluation of fluoroscopy time (FT) and dose area product (DAP) in a multicenter study on the applied X-ray usage.

Methods

A prospective multicenter study of 6 tertiary centers was performed. Each center recruited up to 25 prospective patients with renal stones of any size for RIRS. Prior to study´s onset, all surgeons were briefed about hazards of radiation and on strategies to avoid high doses in RIRS. Prospective procedures were compared to past procedures, as baseline data. FT was defined as the primary outcome. Secondary parameters were stone-free rate (SFR), complications according to the Clavien, SATAVA and postureteroscopic lesion scale. Results were analyzed using T test, chi-squared test, univariate analysis and confirmed in a multivariate regression model.

Results

303 patients were included (145 retro- and 158 prospective). Mean FT and DAP were reduced from 130.8 s/565.8 to 77.4 s/357.8 (p < 0.05). SFR was improved from 85.5% to 93% (p < 0.05). Complications did not vary significantly. Neither stone position (p = 0.569), prestenting (p = 0.419), nor surgeons’ experience (> 100 RIRS) had a significant impact on FT. Significant univariate parameters were confirmed in a multivariate model, revealing X-ray training to be radiation protective (OR − 44, p = 0.001).

Conclusions

Increased surgeon awareness of X-ray exposure risks has a significant impact on FT and DAP. This “awareness effect” is a simple method to reduce radiation exposure for the patient and OR staff without the procedures´ outcome and safety being affected.
A mating-of-trees approach for graph distances in random planar maps
Authors: Gwynne Ewain , Holden Nina , Sun Xin
Published: March 2020

We introduce a general technique for proving estimates for certain random planar maps which belong to the $$\gamma $$
γ
-Liouville quantum gravity (LQG) universality class for $$\gamma \in (0,2)$$

γ
∈
(
0
,
2
)

. The family of random planar maps we consider are those which can be encoded by a two-dimensional random walk with i.i.d. increments via a mating-of-trees bijection, and includes the uniform infinite planar triangulation (UIPT; $$\gamma =\sqrt{8/3}$$

γ
=

8
/
3

); and planar maps weighted by the number of different spanning trees ($$\gamma =\sqrt{2}$$

γ
=

2

), bipolar orientations ($$\gamma =\sqrt{4/3}$$

γ
=

4
/
3

), or Schnyder woods ($$\gamma =1$$

γ
=
1

) that can be put on the map. Using our technique, we prove estimates for graph distances in the above family of random planar maps. In particular, we obtain non-trivial upper and lower bounds for the cardinality of a graph distance ball consistent with the Watabiki (Prog Theor Phys Suppl 114:1–17, 1993) prediction for the Hausdorff dimension of $$\gamma $$
γ
-LQG and we establish the existence of an exponent for certain distances in the map. The basic idea of our approach is to compare a given random planar map M to a mated-CRT map—a random planar map constructed from a correlated two-dimensional Brownian motion—using a strong coupling (Zaitsev in ESAIM Probab Stat 2:41–108, 1998) of the encoding walk for M and the Brownian motion used to construct the mated-CRT map. This allows us to deduce estimates for graph distances in M from the estimates for graph distances in the mated-CRT map which we proved (using continuum theory) in a previous work. In the special case when $$\gamma =\sqrt{8/3}$$

γ
=

8
/
3

, we instead deduce estimates for the $$\sqrt{8/3}$$

8
/
3

-mated-CRT map from known results for the UIPT. The arguments of this paper do not directly use SLE/LQG, and can be read without any knowledge of these objects.
FERM domain–containing protein 6 identifies a subpopulation of varicose nerve fibers in different vertebrate species
Authors: Beck Josefa , Kressel Michael
Published: March 2020

FERM domain–containing protein 6 (FRMD6) is a member of the FERM protein superfamily, which is evolutionary highly conserved and has recently been identified as an upstream regulator of the conserved growth-promoting Hippo signaling pathway. In clinical studies, the FRMD6 gene is correlated with high significance to Alzheimer’s disease and cognitive impairment implicating a wider role of this protein in the nervous system. Scare data are available on the localization of endogenous FRMD6 in neural tissues. Using a FRMD6-directed antiserum, we detected specific immunoreactivity in varicose nerve fibers in the rat central and peripheral nervous system. FRMD6-immunoreactive (-ir) neurons were found in the sensory ganglia of cranial nerves, which were marked by a pool of labeled cytoplasmic granules. Cross-species comparative studies detected a morphologically identical fiber population and a comparable fiber distribution in tissues from xenopus and human cranial nerves and ganglia. In the spinal cord, FRMD6-ir was detectable in the terminal endings of primary afferent neurons containing substance P (SP). In the rat diencephalon, FRMD6-ir was co-localized with either SP- or arginine vasopressin–positive fibers in Broca’s diagonal band and the lateral septum. Dense fiber terminals containing both FRMD6-ir and growth hormone-releasing hormone were found in the median eminence. The intimate association of FRMD6 with secretory vesicles was investigated in vitro. Induction of exocytotic vesicles in cultured cells by ectopic expression of the SP precursor molecule preprotachykinin A led to a redistribution and co-localization of endogenous FRMD6 with secretory granules closely mimicking the observations in tissues.
Modeling functional requirements using tacit knowledge: a design science research methodology informed approach
Authors: Benfell Adrian
Published: March 2020

The research in this paper adds to the discussion linked to the challenge of capturing and modeling tacit knowledge throughout software development projects. The issue emerged when modeling functional requirements during a project for a client. However, using the design science research methodology at a particular point in the project helped to create an artifact, a functional requirements modeling technique, that resolved the issue with tacit knowledge. Accordingly, this paper includes research based upon the stages of the design science research methodology to design and test the artifact in an observable situation, empirically grounding the research undertaken. An integral component of the design science research methodology, the knowledge base, assimilated structuration and semiotic theories so that other researchers can test the validity of the artifact created. First, structuration theory helped to identify how tacit knowledge is communicated and can be understood when modeling functional requirements for new software. Second, structuration theory prescribed the application of semiotics which facilitated the development of the artifact. Additionally, following the stages of the design science research methodology and associated tasks allows the research to be reproduced in other software development contexts. As a positive outcome, using the functional requirements modeling technique created, specifically for obtaining tacit knowledge on the software development project, indicates that using such knowledge increases the likelihood of deploying software successfully.
Functional analysis of suspected splicing variants in CLCN5 gene in Dent disease 1
Authors: Inoue Tomohiko , Nagano China , Matsuo Masafumi , Yamamura Tomohiko , Sakakibara Nana , Horinouchi Tomoko , Shibagaki Yugo , Ichikawa Daisuke , Aoto Yuya , Ishiko Shinya , Ishimori Shingo , Rossanti Rini , Iijima Kazumoto , Nozu Kandai
Published: March 2020

Background

In recent years, the elucidation of splicing abnormalities as a cause of hereditary diseases has progressed. However, there are no comprehensive reports of suspected splicing variants in the CLCN5 gene in Dent disease cases. We reproduced gene mutations by mutagenesis, inserted the mutated genes into minigene vectors, and investigated the pathogenicity and onset mechanisms of these variants.

Methods

We conducted functional splicing assays using a hybrid minigene for six suspected splicing variants (c.105G>A, c.105+5G>C, c.106−17T>G, c.393+4A>G, c.517−8A>G, c.517−3C>A) in CLCN5. We extracted information on these variants from the Human Gene Mutation Database. We reproduced minigene vectors with the insertion of relevant exons with suspected splicing variants. We then transfected these minigene vectors into cultured cells and extracted and analyzed the mRNA. In addition, we conducted in silico analysis to confirm our minigene assay results.

Results

We successfully determined that five of these six variants are pathogenic via the production of splicing abnormalities. One showed only normal transcript production and was thus suspected of not being pathogenic (c.106−17T>G).

Conclusion

We found that five CLCN5 variants disrupted the original splice site, resulting in aberrant splicing. It is sometimes difficult to obtain mRNA from patient samples because of the fragility of mRNA or its low expression level in peripheral leukocytes. Our in vitro system can be used as an alternative to in vivo assays to determine the pathogenicity of suspected splicing variants.
An adaptive discontinuous Galerkin method for the simulation of hurricane storm surge
Authors: Beisiegel Nicole , Vater Stefan , Behrens Jörn , Dias Frédéric
Published: March 2020

Numerical simulations based on solving the 2D shallow water equations using a discontinuous Galerkin (DG) discretisation have evolved to be a viable tool for many geophysical applications. In the context of flood modelling, however, they have not yet been methodologically studied to a large extent. Systematic model testing is non-trivial as no comprehensive collection of numerical test cases exists to ensure the correctness of the implementation. Hence, the first part of this manuscript aims at collecting test cases from the literature that are generally useful for storm surge modellers and can be used to benchmark codes. On geographic scale, hurricane storm surge can be interpreted as a localised phenomenon making it ideally suited for adaptive mesh refinement (AMR). Past studies employing dynamic AMR have exclusively focused on nested meshes. For that reason, we have developed a DG storm surge model on a triangular and dynamically adaptive mesh. In order to increase computational efficiency, the refinement is driven by physics-based refinement indicators capturing major model sensitivities. Using idealised numerical test cases, we demonstrate the model’s ability to correctly represent all source terms and reproduce known variability of coastal flooding with respect to hurricane characteristics such as size and approach speed. Finally, the adaptive mesh significantly reduces computing time with no effect on storm waves measured at discrete wave gauges just off the coast which shows the model’s potential for use as a robust simulation tool for real-time predictions.
Institutional conditions and social innovations in emerging economies: insights from Mexican enterprises’ initiatives for protecting/preventing the effect of violent events
Authors: Guerrero Maribel , Urbano David
Published: March 2020

Latin-American countries are characterised by societal problems like violence, crime, corruption, the informality that influence any entrepreneurial activity developed by individuals/organisations. Social innovations literature confront “wicked problems” with strong interdependencies among different systems/actors. Yet, little is known about how firms use innovation to hedge against economic, political or societal uncertainties (i.e., violence, social movements, democratisation, pandemic). By translating social innovation and institutional theory approaches, this study analyses the influence of formal institutions (government programs and actions) and informal institutions (corruption, extortion and informal trade) on the development/implementation of enterprises’ technological initiatives for protecting/preventing of victimisation. By using data from 5525 establishments interviewed in the 2012/2014 National Victimisation Survey of the Mexican National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI), our findings shows that formal conditions (government programs) and informal conditions (corruption, extortion and informal trade) are associated with an increment in the number of enterprises’ social innovations. Our findings also contribute to the debate about institutional conditions, social innovations, and the role of ecosystems’ actors in developing economies. A provoking discussion and implications for researchers, managers and policymakers emerge from this study.
Explaining Deviatoric Residual Stresses in Aluminum Matrix Composites with Complex Microstructure
Authors: Evsevleev S. , Sevostianov I. , Mishurova T. , Hofmann M. , Garcés G. , Bruno G.
Published: March 2020

The residual stresses in multiphase metal matrix composites with both random planar-oriented short fibers and particles were studied by neutron diffraction and by a model based on the reformulation of classic Maxwell’s homogenization method. Contrary to common understanding and state-of-the-art models, we experimentally observed that randomly oriented phases possess non-hydrostatic residual stress. The recently developed modeling approach allows calculating the residual stress inallphases of the composites. It rationalizes the presence of deviatoric stresses accounting for the interaction of random oriented phases with fibers having preferential orientation.
Statistical Analysis and Evaluation of Macroeconomic Policies: A Selective Review
Authors: Liu Ze-qin , Cai Zong-wu , Fang Ying , Lin Ming
Published: March 2020

In this paper, we highlight some recent developments of a new route to evaluate macroeconomic policy effects, which are investigated under the framework with potential outcomes. First, this paper begins with a brief introduction of the basic model setup in modern econometric analysis of program evaluation. Secondly, primary attention goes to the focus on causal effect estimation of macroeconomic policy with single time series data together with some extensions to multiple time series data. Furthermore, we examine the connection of this new approach to traditional macroeconomic models for policy analysis and evaluation. Finally, we conclude by addressing some possible future research directions in statistics and econometrics.
Effect of enhanced supply air filtration in buildings on protecting citizens from environmental radioactive particles
Authors: Kulmala Ilpo , Zwęgliński Tomasz , Smolarkiewicz Marcin , Salmela Hannu , Kalliohaka Tapio , Taipale Aimo , Kataja Jari , Mäkipää Vesa
Published: March 2020

The effect of enhanced filtration on protection citizens staying indoor against airborne radionuclides released during nuclear core melt accidents was determined by field measurements using outdoor particles as simulants. An electrically enhanced filter was installed in the HVAC system of an office building and its removal efficiency for particles was altered by using a separate particle charging section in power on and off positions. The effect of air filtration on indoor particle concentrations was determined by using an automated measurement system which was continuously sampling from the outdoor air, filtered supply air and exhaust air. With the aid of the measured outdoor and modelled indoor concentrations the indoor/outdoor ratio of particles of outdoor origin could be accurately determined. External charging of the particles increased the electret filters removal efficiency for 0.4 µrn size particles from 60% to 95%, resulting in decrease of the average I/O ratio of the same size particles from 0.67 to 0.40. Despite the high improvement in the supply air filtration efficiency the indoor concentrations decreased only modestly which is likely due to the leaky construction of the building, demonstrating the detrimental effect of air infiltration on the protection provided by buildings against outdoor airborne hazards. Practical implications: The developed method allows quantification of the key parameters affecting the protection of buildings against outdoor contaminants, thus allowing accurate estimation of size resolved indoor to outdoor ratios for fine particles. The electrically enhanced filter can remove effectively also submicron particles thus reducing the occupant exposure to outdoor hazardous or harmful materials. Best results can be achieved with airtight buildings.
Discrepancy Between Fasting Flow-Mediated Dilation and Parameter of Lipids in Blood: A Randomized Exploratory Study of the Effect of Omega-3 Fatty Acid Ethyl Esters on Vascular Endothelial Function in Patients With Hyperlipidemia
Authors: Teramoto Tamio , Shibata Hirotaka , Suzaki Yuki , Matsui Shingo , Uemura Naoto , Tomiyama Hirofumi , Yamashina Akira
Published: March 2020

Introduction

Omega-3 fatty acid ethyl esters (omega-3), an eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid preparation (Lotriga®, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited), are approved in Japan to treat triglyceridemia. We investigated the effects of omega-3 on vascular endothelial function, measured by flow-mediated dilation (FMD).

Methods

Patients with dyslipidemia receiving 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl-coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitors were randomized 1:1 to receive omega-3 at 2 g (QD) or 4 g (2 g BID) for 8 weeks. The primary end point was the change from baseline of fasting  %FMD in each treatment group. Secondary end points included the 4-h postprandial  %FMD and 4-h postprandial triglyceride (TG) level.

Results

Thirty-seven patients were randomized to receive omega-3 at 2 g (n = 18) or 4 g (n = 19). Mean fasting %FMD did not increase from baseline to week 8 in the 2-g group (− 1.2%) or 4-g group (− 1.3%). Mean 4-h postprandial %FMD did not change from baseline to week 8 in the 2-g group (0.0%), but increased in the 4-g group (1.0%). Mean 4-h postprandial TG level decreased by 34.7 mg/dl from baseline over week 8 in the 2-g group, with a significantly larger decrease in the 4-g group of 75.9 mg/dl (p < 0.001). No new safety concerns were identified.

Conclusions

Fasting %FMD did not improve after 8 weeks of omega-3 treatment at 2 g or 4 g. After 8 weeks, 4-h postprandial TG levels showed improvement at both doses, with a greater reduction in the 4-g group.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, ID: NCT02824432.
Computational intelligence based optimization of hierarchical virtual power plants
Authors: Rädle Stefan , Mast Johannes , Gerlach Joachim , Bringmann Oliver
Published: March 2020

In the context of renewable energy sources, virtual power plants (VPP) are regarded as a key technology for an intelligent control of the complex, decentralized, distributed and heterogeneous power generation process. However, an economic and ecological control of a VPP turns out to be a highly critical task: due to the strongly varying characteristics of VPPs, in terms of complexity, technology mix, environmental conditions and target objectives to be optimized during operation, the control of an individual VPP needs to be able to effectively take into account all of those individual constraints. Therefore, we propose in this paper an abstract control methodology for a VPP in combination with computational intelligence (CI) metaheuristics, which is designed to be flexibly applicable for different VPP sizes, target objectives and power plant types. The methodology furthermore provides the possibility to build hierarchical VPPs as they are often demanded by the system operators. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the control methodology, three exemplary optimization targets are considered and applied to different compositions of flat/hierarchical VPPs: the minimization of operating reserve requirements, the minimization of $$\hbox {CO}_{2}$$

CO
2

emissions and the maximization of the power plant flexibility. Furthermore, the methodology is combined and evaluated with three exemplary CI metaheuristics: simulated annealing (SA), particle swarm optimization (PSO) and ant colony optimization (ACO). To legitimize the use of such advanced CI metaheuristics for the optimization problem, gradient descent optimization (GDO) as a traditional optimization technique is regarded as well. On the basis of concrete example scenarios as well as extensive, aggregated test runs, the results show that the control methodology is capable of efficiently optimizing various compositions of VPPs towards the given objectives.
The effects of calcium–silicate–hydrate (C–S–H) seeds on reference microorganisms
Authors: Augustyniak Adrian , Sikora Pawel , Jablonska Joanna , Cendrowski Krzysztof , John Elisabeth , Stephan Dietmar , Mijowska Ewa
Published: March 2020

Building materials are constantly improved with various additives and admixtures in order to achieve goals ranging from obtaining increased durability or antimicrobial activity up to reducing the carbon footprint left by the cement production. Since nanomaterials were proposed for cement products, many studies explored the possibilities for their incorporation. One of the novel trends in studying these materials is evaluating their impact on living organisms, with the focus not only on toxicology but also on the application potential. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the effects of three types of calcium–silicate–hydrate (C–S–H) seeds on reference microorganisms in the scope of their basic physiology and primary metabolism. Shape, size and elemental composition of C–S–H seeds were also evaluated. The tests on the reference microorganisms have shown that the reaction to these nanomaterials can be specific and depends on the strain as well as the type of used nanomaterial. Furthermore, the presence of C–S–H seeds in the growth environment led to metabolic stimulation that resulted in faster growth, higher biochemical activity, and increased biofilm formation. Based on our findings, we conclude that even though C–S–H seeds have antimicrobial potential, they can be potentially used to promote the growth of selected microbial strains. This phenomenon could be further investigated towards the formation of beneficial biofilms on building materials.
Experiences of delayed maturation in female vocational ballet students: An interpretative phenomenological analysis
Authors: Mitchell Siobhan B. , Haase Anne M. , Cumming Sean P.
Published: March 2020

Introduction

There is a well‐established bias toward late maturing females in the context of ballet, with up to 70% of professionals delayed in maturation. The timing of maturation has implications for physical and psychological outcomes which are likely to be amplified in dance. The aim of this research was to explore the role of maturity timing in adolescent dance students' experiences of vocational ballet training.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews were carried out with 28 adolescent female dancers of differing maturity timing across three vocational ballet schools in the UK. Interpretative phenomenological analysis was employed in the analysis of data. This study comprises findings from the nine late maturing dancers within the sample.

Results

Late maturing dancers perceived a number of aesthetic and functional advantages. The aesthetic advantages noted by the dancers are congruent with the well‐established bias toward a later maturing physique for ballet; being ‘small’ and not having ‘bits’ is advantageous for these dancers in terms of maintaining a more pre‐pubescent look and thereby conforming more easily to the expectations of the ballet world. However, dancers in this study perceived some significant drawbacks. Despite aesthetic advantages, later maturing dancers were disadvantaged by the current training system which sees them undertaking the most crucial training period during their most rapid period of growth.

Conclusions

Greater consideration of maturation is needed within training systems and further research is warranted to understand these experiences in more depth and their implications for the physical and psychological wellbeing of young people in dance.
New concentration phenomena for a class of radial fully nonlinear equations
Authors: Galise Giulio , Iacopetti Alessandro , Leoni Fabiana , Pacella Filomena
Published: March 2020

We study radial sign-changing solutions of a class of fully nonlinear elliptic Dirichlet problems in a ball, driven by the extremal Pucci's operators and with a power nonlinear term. We first determine a new critical exponent related to the existence or nonexistence of such solutions. Then we analyze the asymptotic behavior of the radial nodal solutions as the exponents approach the critical values, showing that new concentration phenomena occur. Finally we define a suitable weighted energy for these solutions and compute its limit value.
The Absence of an Ocean and the Fate of Water all Over the Martian History
Authors: Leone Giovanni
Published: March 2020

Existing data returned in >40 years of planetary missions to Mars provided a good basis to understand that an ocean never existed on the surface of the planet during its whole history. The presence of environmental indicators like unaltered jarosite and olivine deposited by the early volcanic activity can be seen as evidence that liquid water was never abundant nor widespread on the surface of Mars since the pre‐Noachian or Noachian at least. There is a dramatic mismatch with the water equivalent volume of the outflow channels sources with the volume needed to form an ocean. The ubiquitous presence of large volcanoes, with their huge lava fields exactly where liquid water was claimed to be abundant during the Noachian age, makes now very clear that lava and not water was involved in the formation of the outflow channels and the fluvial networks. As a consequence, cheaper robotic exploration might be favored with respect to the ambitious human exploration program planned for Mars. Unless enough water supplies will be brought to the equatorial regions from the poles through long pipelines, or from nearby asteroids through cargo ships, it will be very difficult to exploit the rich equatorial resources brought up from the mantle by the massive volcanism that characterized the early history of the planet. Digging deeply the equatorial regions searching for water would be too expensive, of uncertain reward, and thus unpractical.
How Oceanic Melt Controls Tidewater Glacier Evolution
Authors: Mercenier R. , Lüthi M. P. , Vieli A.
Published: March 2020

The recent rapid retreat of many Arctic outlet glaciers has been attributed to increased oceanic melt, but the relationship between oceanic melt and iceberg calving remains poorly understood. Here, we employ a transient finite element model that simulates oceanic melt and ice break‐off at the terminus. The response of an idealized tidewater glacier to various submarine melt rates and seasonal variations is investigated. Our modeling shows that for zero to low oceanic melt, the rate of volume loss at the front is similar or higher than that for intermediate oceanic melt rates. Only very high melt rates lead to increasing volume losses. These results highlight the complex interplay between oceanic melt and calving and question the general assumption that increased submarine melt leads to higher calving fluxes and enhanced retreat. Models for tidewater glacier evolution should therefore consider calving and oceanic melt as tightly coupled processes rather than as simple, additive parameterizations.
CO Emissions Inferred From Surface CO Observations Over China in December 2013 and 2017
Authors: Feng Shuzhuang , Jiang Fei , Wu Zheng , Wang Hengmao , Ju Weimin , Wang Haikun
Published: March 2020

China has implemented active clean air policies in recent years, and the spatiotemporal patterns of major pollutant emissions have changed substantially. In this study, we construct a regional air pollution data assimilation system based on the WRF/CMAQ model and ensemble Kalman filter algorithm to quantitatively optimize gridded CO emissions using hourly surface CO measurements over China. The Multi‐resolution Emission Inventory of China CO emission inventories in December 2012 and 2016 are treated as prior emissions, and the CO emissions in December 2013 and 2017 are optimized using the CO observations of December of 2013 and 2017, respectively. The results show that in both periods, assimilation of CO observations significantly improves the CO simulations and emission estimates. Assimilation increases the CO emissions in most areas of mainland China, especially in northern China, and the spatial patterns of the increases in the two periods are similar. Overall, the posterior CO emissions in December 2017 are 17% lower than those in December 2013. Large emission decreases are mainly found in most key urban areas and developed regions, and emission increases are mainly located in their surrounding areas and certain central and western regions, which might reflect the emission migration from developed regions or urban areas to developing regions or surrounding areas. These changes are not found in the prior emissions but are basically consistent with the emission control strategies and industrial transformation and upgrade phenomena in recent years, indicating that our CO assimilation system could successfully capture the temporal and spatial variations.
Contribution of Sea‐State Dependent Bubbles to Air‐Sea Carbon Dioxide Fluxes
Authors: Reichl B. G. , Deike L.
Published: March 2020

Breaking surface ocean waves produce bubbles that are important for air‐sea gas exchanges, particularly during high winds. In this study we estimate air‐sea CO2 fluxes globally using a new approach that considers the surface wave contribution to gas fluxes. We estimate that 40% of the net air‐sea CO2 flux is via bubbles, with annual, seasonal, and regional variability. When compared to traditional gas‐flux parameterization methods that consider the wind speed alone, we find high‐frequency (daily to weekly) differences in the predicted gas flux using the sea‐state dependent method at spatial scales related to atmospheric weather (10 to 100 km). Seasonal net differences in the air‐sea CO2 flux due to the sea‐state dependence can exceed 20%, with the largest values associated with North Atlantic and North Pacific winter storms. These results confirm that bubbles are important for global gas‐flux dynamics and that sea‐state dependent parameterizations may improve performance of global coupled models.