bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AI-enhanced simultaneous multiparametric 18F-FDG PET/MRI for accurate breast cancer diagnosis
Authors: Romeo V. , Clauser P. , Rasul S. , Kapetas P. , Gibbs P. , Baltzer P. A. T. , Hacker M. , Woitek R. , Helbich T. H. , Pinker K.
Published: August 2021

Purpose

To assess whether a radiomics and machine learning (ML) model combining quantitative parameters and radiomics features extracted from simultaneous multiparametric 18F-FDG PET/MRI can discriminate between benign and malignant breast lesions.

Methods

A population of 102 patients with 120 breast lesions (101 malignant and 19 benign) detected on ultrasound and/or mammography was prospectively enrolled. All patients underwent hybrid 18F-FDG PET/MRI for diagnostic purposes. Quantitative parameters were extracted from DCE (MTT, VD, PF), DW (mean ADC of breast lesions and contralateral breast parenchyma), PET (SUVmax, SUVmean, and SUVminimum of breast lesions, as well as SUVmean of the contralateral breast parenchyma), and T2-weighted images. Radiomics features were extracted from DCE, T2-weighted, ADC, and PET images. Different diagnostic models were developed using a fine Gaussian support vector machine algorithm which explored different combinations of quantitative parameters and radiomics features to obtain the highest accuracy in discriminating between benign and malignant breast lesions using fivefold cross-validation. The performance of the best radiomics and ML model was compared with that of expert reader review using McNemar’s test.

Results

Eight radiomics models were developed. The integrated model combining MTT and ADC with radiomics features extracted from PET and ADC images obtained the highest accuracy for breast cancer diagnosis (AUC 0.983), although its accuracy was not significantly higher than that of expert reader review (AUC 0.868) (p = 0.508).

Conclusion

A radiomics and ML model combining quantitative parameters and radiomics features extracted from simultaneous multiparametric 18F-FDG PET/MRI images can accurately discriminate between benign and malignant breast lesions.
Spatial and temporal diet variability of Adélie (Pygoscelis adeliae) and Emperor (Aptenodytes forsteri) Penguin: a multi tissue stable isotope analysis
Authors: Jafari Vahideh , Maccapan Deborah , Careddu Giulio , Sporta Caputi Simona , Calizza Edoardo , Rossi Loreto , Costantini Maria Letizia
Published: August 2021

The Ross Sea, Antarctica, supports large populations of Emperor Penguin (Aptenodytes forsteri) and Adélie Penguin (Pygoscelis adeliae), two key meso-predators that occupy high trophic levels. Despite these species are largely studied, little is known about their diet outside the breeding period. In the present study, we investigated the intra-annual diet of Adélie and Emperor Penguins belonging to five colonies in the Ross Sea through the stable isotope analysis of different tissues (feathers and shell membranes), synthetized in different seasons, and guano that indicates recent diet. Penguin samples and prey (krill and fish) were collected during the Antarctic spring–summer. δ13C and δ15N of tissues and guano indicate spatio-temporal variation in the penguin diet. The krill consumption by Adélie Penguins was lowest in winter except in the northernmost colony, where it was always very high. It peaked in spring and remained prevalent in summer. The greatest krill contribution to Emperor Penguin’s diet occurred in summer. The relative krill and fish consumption by both species changed in relation to the prey availability, which is influenced by seasonal sea ice dynamics, and according to the penguin life cycle phases. The results highlight a strong trophic plasticity in the Adélie Penguin, whose dietary variability has been already recognized, and in the Emperor Penguin, which had not previously reported. Our findings can help understand how these species might react to resource variation due to climate change or anthropogenic overexploitation. Furthermore, data provides useful basis for future comparisons in the Ross Sea MPA and for planning conservation actions.
Gender-specific differences in COPD symptoms and their impact for the diagnosis of cardiac comorbidities
Authors: Trudzinski Franziska C. , Kellerer Christina , Jörres Rudolf A. , Alter Peter , Lutter Johanna I. , Trinkmann Frederik , Herth Felix J. F. , Frankenberger Marion , Watz Henrik , Vogelmeier Claus F. , Kauczor Hans-Ulrich , Welte Tobias , Behr Jürgen , Bals Robert , Kahnert Kathrin
Published: August 2021

Background

In chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), gender-specific differences in the prevalence of symptoms and comorbidity are known.

Research question

We studied whether the relationship between these characteristics depended on gender and carried diagnostic information regarding cardiac comorbidities.

Study design and methods

The analysis was based on 2046 patients (GOLD grades 1–4, 795 women; 38.8%) from the COSYCONET COPD cohort. Assessments comprised the determination of clinical history, comorbidities, lung function, COPD Assessment Test (CAT) and modified Medical Research Council dyspnea scale (mMRC). Using multivariate regression analyses, gender-specific differences in the relationship between symptoms, single CAT items, comorbidities and functional alterations were determined. To reveal the relationship to cardiac disease (myocardial infarction, or heart failure, or coronary artery disease) logistic regression analysis was performed separately in men and women.

Results

Most functional parameters and comorbidities, as well as CAT items 1 (cough), 2 (phlegm) and 5 (activities), differed significantly (p < 0.05) between men and women. Beyond this, the relationship between functional parameters and comorbidities versus symptoms showed gender-specific differences, especially for single CAT items. In men, item 8 (energy), mMRC, smoking status, BMI, age and spirometric lung function was related to cardiac disease, while in women primarily age was predictive.

Interpretation

Gender-specific differences in COPD not only comprised differences in symptoms, comorbidities and functional alterations, but also differences in their mutual relationships. This was reflected in different determinants linked to cardiac disease, thereby indicating that simple diagnostic information might be used differently in men and women.

Clinical trial registration

The cohort study is registered on ClinicalTrials.gov with identifier NCT01245933 and on GermanCTR.de with identifier DRKS00000284, date of registration November 23, 2010. Further information can be obtained on the website http://www.asconet.net.
Assessment and management of obesity and metabolic syndrome in children with CKD stages 2–5 on dialysis and after kidney transplantation—clinical practice recommendations from the Pediatric Renal Nutrition Taskforce
Authors: Stabouli Stella , Polderman Nonnie , Nelms Christina L. , Paglialonga Fabio , Oosterveld Michiel J. S. , Greenbaum Larry A. , Warady Bradley A. , Anderson Caroline , Haffner Dieter , Desloovere An , Qizalbash Leila , Renken-Terhaerdt José , Tuokkola Jetta , Walle Johan Vande , Shaw Vanessa , Mitsnefes Mark , Shroff Rukshana
Published: August 2021

Obesity and metabolic syndrome (O&MS) due to the worldwide obesity epidemic affects children at all stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD) including dialysis and after kidney transplantation. The presence of O&MS in the pediatric CKD population may augment the already increased cardiovascular risk and contribute to the loss of kidney function. The Pediatric Renal Nutrition Taskforce (PRNT) is an international team of pediatric renal dietitians and pediatric nephrologists who develop clinical practice recommendations (CPRs) for the nutritional management of children with kidney diseases. We present CPRs for the assessment and management of O&MS in children with CKD stages 2–5, on dialysis and after kidney transplantation. We address the risk factors and diagnostic criteria for O&MS and discuss their management focusing on non-pharmacological treatment management, including diet, physical activity, and behavior modification in the context of age and CKD stage. The statements have been graded using the American Academy of Pediatrics grading matrix. Statements with a low grade or those that are opinion-based must be carefully considered and adapted to individual patient needs based on the clinical judgment of the treating physician and dietitian. Research recommendations are provided. The CPRs will be periodically audited and updated by the PRNT.
Exploring the past of Mavrovouni forest in the Pindus Mountain range (Greece) using tree rings of Bosnian pines
Authors: Christopoulou Anastasia , Fyllas Nikolaos M. , Gmińska-Nowak Barbara , Özarslan Yasemin , Arianoutsou Margarita , Brandes Robert , Ważny Tomasz
Published: August 2021

Key message

Long Bosnian pine chronologies from different mountains are shaped by different climatic parameters and can help identify past drought events and reconstruct landscape histories.

We developed a 735-year-longPinus heldreichiichronology from the southern distribution limit of the species, expanding the available database of long Bosnian pine chronologies. Tree-ring growth was mainly positively correlated with growing degree days (GDD:r1950–2018 = 0.476) while higher temperatures during both winter and growing season also enhanced growth (TWT:r1950–2018 = 0.361 andTGS: 0.289, respectively). Annual precipitation, during both calendar and water years, had a negative but weaker impact on annual tree growth. The newly developed chronology correlates well with chronologies developed from the neighboring mountains. The years with ring width index (RWI) lower than the average were found to correspond to cool years with dry summers. Still, the newly developed chronology was able to capture severe drought events, such as those in 1660, 1687, and 1725. Several old living trees had internal scars presumably caused by fires. Therefore, old mature trees could be used for fire history reconstruction in addition to climate reconstruction. Although the presence of lightning scars indicates an important natural agent of fire ignition, human activities associated with animal grazing could also be an underlying reason for fires in the region.
Safety and immunogenicity of an mRNA-lipid nanoparticle vaccine candidate against SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Kremsner Peter G. , Mann Philipp , Kroidl Arne , Leroux-Roels Isabel , Schindler Christoph , Gabor Julian J. , Schunk Mirjam , Leroux-Roels Geert , Bosch Jacobus J. , Fendel Rolf , Kreidenweiss Andrea , Velavan Thirumalaisamy P. , Fotin-Mleczek Mariola , Mueller Stefan O. , Quintini Gianluca , Schönborn‑Kellenberger Oliver , Vahrenhorst Dominik , Verstraeten Thomas , Alves de Mesquita Margarida , Walz Lisa , Wolz Olaf‑Oliver , Oostvogels Lidia ,   CV-NCOV-001 Study Group, De Boever Fien , Desimpel Anniek , Esen Meral , Fischer Ina , Flügge Judith , Geisenberger Otto , Geldmacher Christof , Held Katrin , Hoffmann Larissa , Hölscher Michael , Huber Kristina , Jacobs Bart , Joye Jasper , Kirschke Jacqueline , Klopp Norman , Koehne Erik , Köhler Carsten , Lalremruata Albert , Lamsfus-Calle Carlos , Linh Le Thi Kieu , Maes Cathy , Metaxa Dafni , Molnar Marie-Luise , Mueller Mariana , Müller-Schöner Gesine , Quindel Marion , Rappe Sabine , Schultze-Naumburg Liz , Schumacher Carsten , Schuster Sabine , Thiel Verena , Vejda Susanne , Waerlop Gwenn , Westenberg Carola , Wons Katrin , Zeder Andreas
Published: August 2021

Background

We used the RNActive® technology platform (CureVac N.V., Tübingen, Germany) to prepare CVnCoV, a COVID-19 vaccine containing sequence-optimized mRNA coding for a stabilized form of SARS-CoV‑2 spike (S) protein encapsulated in lipid nanoparticles (LNP).

Methods

This is an interim analysis of a dosage escalation phase 1 study in healthy 18–60-year-old volunteers in Hannover, Munich and Tübingen, Germany, and Ghent, Belgium. After giving 2 intramuscular doses of CVnCoV or placebo 28 days apart we assessed solicited local and systemic adverse events (AE) for 7 days and unsolicited AEs for 28 days after each vaccination. Immunogenicity was measured as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) IgG antibodies to SARS-CoV‑2 S‑protein and receptor binding domain (RBD), and SARS-CoV‑2 neutralizing titers (MN50).

Results

In 245 volunteers who received 2 CVnCoV vaccinations (2 μg, n = 47, 4 μg, n = 48, 6 μg, n = 46, 8 μg, n = 44, 12 μg, n = 28) or placebo (n = 32) there were no vaccine-related serious AEs. Dosage-dependent increases in frequency and severity of solicited systemic AEs, and to a lesser extent local AEs, were mainly mild or moderate and transient in duration. Dosage-dependent increases in IgG antibodies to S‑protein and RBD and MN50 were evident in all groups 2 weeks after the second dose when 100% (23/23) seroconverted to S‑protein or RBD, and 83% (19/23) seroconverted for MN50 in the 12 μg group. Responses to 12 μg were comparable to those observed in convalescent sera from known COVID-19 patients.

Conclusion

In this study 2 CVnCoV doses were safe, with acceptable reactogenicity and 12 μg dosages elicited levels of immune responses that overlapped those observed in convalescent sera.
Liveness in broadcast networks
Authors: Chini Peter , Meyer Roland , Saivasan Prakash
Published: August 2021

We study liveness and model checking problems for broadcast networks, a system model of identical clients communicating via message passing. The first problem that we consider is Liveness Verification. It asks whether there is a computation such that one clients visits a final state infinitely often. The complexity of the problem has been open. It was shown to be $$\texttt {P}$$
P
-hard but in $$\texttt {EXPSPACE}$$
EXPSPACE
. We close the gap by a polynomial-time algorithm. The latter relies on a characterization of live computations in terms of paths in a suitable graph, combined with a fixed-point iteration to efficiently check the existence of such paths. The second problem is Fair Liveness Verification. It asks for a computation where all participating clients visit a final state infinitely often. We adjust the algorithm to also solve fair liveness in polynomial time. Both problems can be instrumented to answer model checking questions for broadcast networks against linear time temporal logic specifications. The first problem in this context is Fair Model Checking. It demands that for all computations of a broadcast network, all participating clients satisfy the specification. We solve the problem via the Vardi–Wolper construction and a reduction to Liveness Verification. The second problem is Sparse Model Checking. It asks whether each computation has a participating client that satisfies the specification. We reduce the problem to Fair Liveness Verification.
Diagnostic accuracy of glabellar tap sign for Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Nuuttila Simo , Eklund Mikael , Joutsa Juho , Jaakkola Elina , Mäkinen Elina , Honkanen Emma A. , Lindholm Kari , Noponen Tommi , Ihalainen Toni , Murtomäki Kirsi , Nojonen Tanja , Levo Reeta , Mertsalmi Tuomas , Scheperjans Filip , Kaasinen Valtteri
Published: August 2021

Glabellar tap or reflex (GR) is an old bedside clinical test used in the diagnostics of Parkinson’s disease (PD), but its diagnostic value is unclear. This study examines the diagnostic validity and reliability of GR in PD in relation to brain dopaminergic activity. GR was performed on 161 patients with PD, 47 patients with essential tremor (ET) and 40 healthy controls immediately prior to dopamine transporter (DAT) [123I]FP-CIT SPECT scanning. The binding ratios were investigated with consideration of the GR result (normal/abnormal). In addition, the consistency of the GR was investigated with 89 patients after a mean follow-up of 2.2 years. PD and ET patients had higher GR scores than healthy controls (p < 0.001), but there was no difference in GR between PD and ET patients (p = 0.09). There were no differences in the ratio of abnormal to normal GRs between the PD and ET groups (73% vs. 64% abnormal, respectively, p = 0.13) or in DAT binding between PD patients with abnormal and normal GRs (p > 0.36). Over follow-up, the GR changed from abnormal to normal in 20% of PD patients despite the presence of clinically typical disease. The sensitivity and specificity of GR for differentiating PD from ET were 78.3% and 36.2%, respectively. Although GR has been used by clinicians in the diagnostics of PD, it does not separate PD from ET. It also shows considerable inconsistency over time, and abnormal GR has no relationship with dopamine loss. Its usefulness should be tested for other clinical diagnostic purposes.
Temporal mixture ensemble models for probabilistic forecasting of intraday cryptocurrency volume
Authors: Antulov-Fantulin Nino , Guo Tian , Lillo Fabrizio
Published: August 2021

We study the problem of the intraday short-term volume forecasting in cryptocurrency multi-markets. The predictions are built by using transaction and order book data from different markets where the exchange takes place. Methodologically, we propose a temporal mixture ensemble, capable of adaptively exploiting, for the forecasting, different sources of data and providing a volume point estimate, as well as its uncertainty. We provide evidence of the clear outperformance of our model with respect to econometric models. Moreover our model performs slightly better than Gradient Boosting Machine while having a much clearer interpretability of the results. Finally, we show that the above results are robust also when restricting the prediction analysis to each volume quartile.
Stories, journeys and smart maps: an approach to universal access
Authors: Wang Xi , Crookes Danny , Harding Sue-Ann , Johnston David
Published: August 2021

This paper proposes a new approach to universal access based on the premise that humans have the universal capacity to engage emotionally with a story, whatever their ability. Our approach is to present the “story” of museum resources and knowledge as a journey, and then represent this journey physically as a smart map. The key research question is to assess the extent to which our “story” to journey to smart map’ (SJSM) approach provides emotional engagement as part of the museum experience. This approach is applied through the creation of a smart map for blind and partially sighted (BPS) visitors. Made in partnership with Titanic Belfast, a world-leading tourist attraction, the interactive map tells the story of Titanic’s maiden voyage. The smart map uses low-cost technologies such as laser-cut map features and software-controlled multi-function buttons for the audio description (AD). The AD is enhanced with background effects, dramatized personal stories and the ship’s last messages. The results of a reception study show that the approach enabled BPS participants to experience significant emotional engagement with museum resources. The smart model also gave BPS users a level of control over the AD which gave them a greater sense of empowerment and independence, which is particularly important for BPS visitors with varying sight conditions. We conclude that our SJSM approach has considerable potential as an approach to universal access, and to increase emotional engagement with museum collections. We also propose several developments which could further extend the approach and its implementation.
Hydrodynamic drag reduction of shear-thinning liquids in superhydrophobic textured microchannels
Authors: Gaddam Anvesh , Sharma Himani , Ahuja Ratan , Dimov Stefan , Joshi Suhas , Agrawal Amit
Published: August 2021

Super-hydrophobic textured surfaces reduce hydrodynamic drag in pressure-driven laminar flows in micro-channels. However, despite the wide usage of non-Newtonian liquids in microfluidic devices, the flow behaviour of such liquids was rarely examined so far in the context of friction reduction in textured super-hydrophobic micro-channels. Thus, we have investigated the influence of topologically different rough surfaces on friction reduction of shear-thinning liquids in micro-channels. First, the friction factor ratio (a ratio of friction factor on a textured surface to a plain surface) on generic surface textures, such as posts, holes, longitudinal and transverse ribs, was estimated numerically over a range of Carreau number as a function of microchannel constriction ratio, gas fraction and power-law exponent. Resembling the flow behaviour of Newtonian liquids, the longitudinal ribs and posts have exhibited significantly less flow friction than the transverse ribs and holes while the friction factor ratios of all textures has exhibited non-monotonic variation with the Carreau number. While the minima of the friction factor ratio were noticed at a constant Carreau number irrespective of the microchannel constriction ratio, the minima have shifted to a higher Carreau number with an increase in the power-law index and gas fraction. Experiments were also conducted with aqueous Xanthan Gum liquids in micro-channels. The flow enhancement (the flow rate with super-hydrophobic textures with respect to a smooth surface) exhibited a non-monotonic behaviour and attenuated with an increase in power-law index tantamount to simulations. The results will serve as a guide to design frictionless micro-channels when employing non-Newtonian liquids.
ReOpen demands as public health threat: a sociotechnical framework for understanding the stickiness of misinformation
Authors: Tripodi Francesca Bolla
Published: August 2021

In the absence of a national, coordinated, response to COVID-19, state and local representatives had to create and enforce individualized plans to protect their constituents. Alongside the challenge of trying to curb the virus, public health officials also had to contend with the spread of false information. This problematic content often contradicted safeguards, like masks, while promoting unverified and potentially lethal treatments. One of the most active groups denying the threat of COVID is The Reopen the States Movement. By combining qualitative content analysis with ethnographic observations of public ReOpen groups on Facebook, this paper provides a better understanding of the central narratives circulating among ReOpen members and the information they relied on to support their arguments. Grounded in notions of individualism and self-inquiry, members sought to reinterpret datasets to downplay the threat of COVID and suggest public safety workarounds. When the platform tried to flag problematic content, lack of institutional trust had members doubting the validity of the fact-checkers, highlight the tight connection between misinformation and epistemology.
A life cycle assessment of the environmental impacts of cattle feedlot finishing rations
Authors: Werth Samantha J. , Rocha Alice S. , Oltjen James W. , Kebreab Ermias , Mitloehner Frank M.
Published: August 2021

Purpose

A life cycle assessment was performed for the production of a total mixed ration (TMR) fed to finishing feedlot cattle in California, USA. The goal was to determine the climate change impact of the feed supply chain associated with the production of 1 kg finishing TMR (kg CO2e/kg TMR). A secondary goal was to compare the climate change impact of feed versus finished beef (kg CO2e/kg live weight).

Methods

The TMR was based on feeds commonly fed to finishing cattle in California. The Livestock Environmental Assessment and Performance Partnership (LEAP) guidelines were followed for inventory data collection. System boundaries included the production of crops and feed additives, transportation of TMR components, and compound feed production. Data were sourced from national databases and Ecoinvent™ unit process data. Three scenarios were assessed as a result of allocation at the transportation step: Scenario A (100% empty return load); Scenario B (50% empty return load): and Scenario C (0% empty return load). Energy, mass, and economic allocation, and system expansion of dried distillers grain solubles (DDGS) were assessed for sensitivity analysis. Total feedlot emission data from Stackhouse-Lawson et al. (2012) were used to compare to impacts of TMR production.

Results

Total emissions were determined to be 0.630 kg CO2e/kg TMR for Scenario A, 0.576 kg CO2e/kg TMR for Scenario B, and 0.521 kg CO2e/kg TMR for Scenario C. Corn production, transportation, and liquid premix production were primary contributors to the life cycle impacts of TMR production. Mass-based allocation of DDGS was found to have the most significant effect on overall impacts of the finishing TMR, with a 42% increase in life cycle emissions compared to other allocation methods. For Scenario A, feed used in Angus feedlot production contributed to 76% of total Angus feedlot emissions. Additionally, feed used in Holstein feedlot production contributed to 58% of total Holstein feedlot emissions.

Conclusions and recommendations

The present study demonstrates a need to better assess the feed supply chain of feedlot beef production in order to accurately identify areas that have the most significant impacts on overall emissions. This may aid in minimizing impacts associated with feed production and, by extension, beef production. The present study may also serve to inform future decisions for improvements or alterations of the LEAP guidelines.
Wer besucht Mathematikvorkurse?
Authors: Karapanos Marios , Pelz Robert
Published: August 2021

Teilnehmer und Nicht-Teilnehmer eines Mathematikvorkurses (N = 394) an einer Fachhochschule wurden auf Unterschiede in leistungsassoziierten Persönlichkeitsmerkmalen und schulischen Vorleistungen untersucht. Eine logistische Regressionsanalyse weist auf nur marginale Unterschiede in den erfassten Merkmalen zwischen den beiden Gruppen hin. Während Nicht-Teilnehmer zwar über einen etwas besseren Schulnotendurchschnitt verfügten, berichteten Teilnehmer eine leicht höhere mathematikbezogene Selbstwirksamkeitserwartung und allgemeine Misserfolgsängstlichkeit. Persönlichkeit und Leistungspotential scheinen bei der Teilnahmeentscheidung von nachrangiger Bedeutung zu sein. Als relevant erweisen sich aber lebensweltliche Umstände wie etwa die noch fehlende Unterkunft am Studienort und Zeitmangel. Die Ergebnisse legen nahe, dass Vorkurse weder vorrangig von Studienanfängern mit schlechteren Voraussetzungen besucht werden, noch von solchen mit besonders günstigen. Die intendierte kompensatorische Wirkung können sie damit nur teilweise entfalten.
Granny-Export? The Morality of Sending People to Care Homes Abroad
Authors: de Vries Bouke
Published: August 2021

Many higher-income countries are struggling to make decent and affordable care available to their older populations. In response, some Germans are sending their ageing relatives to relatively high-end care homes within Eastern Europe and South-East Asia where the care tends to be more comprehensive and a lot cheaper. At the same time, this practice has caused much controversy within Germany, with some commentators calling it “inhumane” and “shameful.” The aim of this article is to show that such criticisms are exaggerated. Whereas sending people to care homes in lower-income countries can be immoral, I argue that the most promising objections against it do not always apply and, to the extent that they do, do not always provide decisive reasons against sending people abroad. These objections maintain that such expatriations harm three different groups of individuals, namely the emigrants themselves; their friends and relatives; and vulnerable members of the receiving societies.
Multimodal Autoencoder Predicts fNIRS Resting State From EEG Signals
Authors: Sirpal Parikshat , Damseh Rafat , Peng Ke , Nguyen Dang Khoa , Lesage Frédéric
Published: August 2021

In this work, we introduce a deep learning architecture for evaluation on multimodal electroencephalographic (EEG) and functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) recordings from 40 epileptic patients. Long short-term memory units and convolutional neural networks are integrated within a multimodal sequence-to-sequence autoencoder. The trained neural network predicts fNIRS signals from EEG, sans a priori, by hierarchically extracting deep features from EEG full spectra and specific EEG frequency bands. Results show that higher frequency EEG ranges are predictive of fNIRS signals with the gamma band inputs dominating fNIRS prediction as compared to other frequency envelopes. Seed based functional connectivity validates similar patterns between experimental fNIRS and our model’s fNIRS reconstructions. This is the first study that shows it is possible to predict brain hemodynamics (fNIRS) from encoded neural data (EEG) in the resting human epileptic brain based on power spectrum amplitude modulation of frequency oscillations in the context of specific hypotheses about how EEG frequency bands decode fNIRS signals.
B-cell activating factor BAFF as a novel alert marker for the immunological risk stratification after kidney transplantation
Authors: Schuster Antonia Margarete , Miesgang N. , Steines L. , Bach C. , Banas B. , Bergler T.
Published: August 2021

The B cell activating factor BAFF has gained importance in the context of kidney transplantation due to its role in B cell survival. Studies have shown that BAFF correlates with an increased incidence of antibody-mediated rejection and the development of donor-specific antibodies. In this study, we analyzed a defined cohort of kidney transplant recipients who were treated with standardized immunosuppressive regimens according to their immunological risk profile. The aim was to add BAFF as an awareness marker in the course after transplantation to consider patient’s individual immunological risk profile. Included patients were transplanted between 2016 and 2018. Baseline data, graft function, the occurrence of rejection episodes, signs of microvascular infiltration, and DSA kinetics were recorded over 3 years. BAFF levels were determined 14 d, 3 and 12 months post transplantation. Although no difference in graft function could be observed, medium-risk patients showed a clear dynamic in their BAFF levels with low levels shortly after transplantation and an increase in values of 123% over the course of 1 year. Patients with high BAFF values were more susceptible to rejection, especially antibody-mediated rejection and displayed intensified microvascular inflammation; the combination of high BAFF + DSA puts patients at risk. The changing BAFF kinetics of the medium risk group as well as the increased occurrence of rejections at high BAFF values enables BAFF to be seen as an awareness factor. To compensate the changing immunological risk, a switch from a weaker induction therapy to an intensified maintenance therapy is required.
Mutually Exclusive Expression of COL11A1 by CAFs and Tumour Cells in a Large panCancer and a Salivary Gland Carcinoma Cohort
Authors: Arolt Christoph , Hoffmann Franziska , Nachtsheim Lisa , Wolber Philipp , Guntinas-Lichius Orlando , Buettner Reinhard , von Eggeling Ferdinand , Quaas Alexander , Klußmann Jens Peter
Published: August 2021

Procollagen 11A1 (COL11A1) is a central component of the extracellular matrix in many carcinomas, which is considered to be mainly produced by cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs). As COL11A1 expression correlates with adverse prognosis and is implicated in chemoresistance, it is a promising putative target. For the first time, we used RNA in-situ hybridization to systematically identify the cells that produce COL11A1 in the ten most prevalent carcinoma types, lymphomas (n = 275) and corresponding normal tissue (n = 55; panCancer cohort). Moreover, as most salivary gland carcinomas (SGC) display distinct stromal architectures, we also analysed 110 SGC. The corresponding protein formation of COL11A1 was determined by MALDI-TOF–MS-Imaging. We report that colon, breast and salivary duct carcinomas are highly infiltrated by COL11A1 positive CAFs (CAFsCOL11A1) and might thus be promising candidates for antidesmoplastic or COL11A1-targeted therapies. The amount of CAFsCOL11A1 correlated significantly with tumour grade, tumour stage and nodal spread in the panCancer cohort. Significant associations between CAFsCOL11A1 and vascular invasion, perineural spread and nodal spread were observed in the SGC cohort. Also, we discovered that tumour cells of intercalated duct derived SGC and CAFs produce COL11A1 in a mutually exclusive manner. Our findings represent a novel mode of extracellular matrix production in carcinomas and could be highly relevant in the future. Our findings elucidate the mode of COL11A1 expression in very different carcinoma types and may aid to categorise tumours in the setting of possible future COL11A1-related therapies.
Psychometric properties and measurement invariance of the emotion regulation questionnaire in Chinese left-behind children
Authors: Chen Wei , Zhang Guyin , Tian Xue , Wang Li
Published: August 2021

Left-behind children (LBC) is a group of children who live without their parents and receive less parental care and education. Compared with non-left-behind children (NLBC), LBC are more likely to develop emotional or behavior problems. This study aimed to explore the psychometric properties and measurement invariance of the Chinese version of the Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (ERQ) in Chinese LBC. A sample of 2960 middle school students (44.35% male, 55.28% female; age: 12 to 20 years) including LBC (n = 1365) and NLBC (n = 1595) was used. The exploratory factor analysis (EFA); confirmatory factor analyses (CFA); tests of measurement invariance; t-tests of gender and left-behind experience differences; tests of reliability and convergent, discriminant, and criterion validity were conducted. The results showed that two factors were extracted, and the CFA replicated the original two-factor structure (S-Bχ2/df ≈ 106.778/34, P < .001, CFI = .948, TLI = .932, RMSEA = .056 [.044, .068]). The measurement invariance of the ERQ across genders, LBC and NLBC was also confirmed. Males use expressive suppression (ES) significantly more than females (t = 2.63, p < .01), and LBC use ES significantly more than NLBC (t = 2.11, p < .05). The internal consistency coefficients for ES and cognitive reappraisal (CR) were acceptable, and the test-retest reliability was .62 and .68, respectively. Good convergent, discriminant and criterion validity were also demonstrated. It can be concluded that the ERQ is a valid measure for investigating the use of two different emotion regulation strategies among Chinese left-behind children.
Bulbophyllum lanterna, a new species in Dendrobiinae (Orchidaceae) from Madagascar
Authors: Hermans Johan , Rajaovelona Landy , Cribb Phillip
Published: August 2021

A new species from Madagascar, Bulbophyllum lanterna Hermans, is described and illustrated. It is compared with similar species from section Lichenophylax. A preliminary conservation assessment is provided.
The mini player with diverse functions: extracellular vesicles in cell biology, disease, and therapeutics
Authors: Thakur Abhimanyu , Ke Xiaoshan , Chen Ya-Wen , Motallebnejad Pedram , Zhang Kui , Lian Qizhou , Chen Huanhuan Joyce
Published: August 2021

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are tiny biological nanovesicles ranging from approximately 30–1000 nm in diameter that are released into the extracellular matrix of most cell types and in biofluids. The classification of EVs includes exosomes, microvesicles, and apoptotic bodies, dependent on various factors such as size, markers, and biogenesis pathways. The transition of EV relevance from that of being assumed as a trash bag to be a key player in critical physiological and pathological conditions has been revolutionary in many ways. EVs have been recently revealed to play a crucial role in stem cell biology and cancer progression via intercellular communication, contributing to organ development and the progression of cancer. This review focuses on the significant research progress made so far in the role of the crosstalk between EVs and stem cells and their niche, and cellular communication among different germ layers in developmental biology. In addition, it discusses the role of EVs in cancer progression and their application as therapeutic agents or drug delivery vehicles. All such discoveries have been facilitated by tremendous technological advancements in EV-associated research, especially the microfluidics systems. Their pros and cons in the context of characterization of EVs are also extensively discussed in this review. This review also deliberates the role of EVs in normal cell processes and disease conditions, and their application as a diagnostic and therapeutic tool. Finally, we propose future perspectives for EV-related research in stem cell and cancer biology.
Padé approximants on Riemann surfaces and KP tau functions
Authors: Bertola Marco
Published: August 2021

The paper has two relatively distinct but connected goals; the first is to define the notion of Padé approximation of Weyl–Stiltjes transforms on an arbitrary compact Riemann surface of higher genus. The data consists of a contour in the Riemann surface and a measure on it, together with the additional datum of a local coordinate near a point and a divisor of degree g. The denominators of the resulting Padé-like approximation also satisfy an orthogonality relation and are sections of appropriate line bundles. A Riemann–Hilbert problem for a square matrix of rank two is shown to characterize these orthogonal sections, in a similar fashion to the ordinary orthogonal polynomial case. The second part extends this idea to explore its connection to integrable systems. The same data can be used to define a pairing between two sequences of line bundles. The locus in the deformation space where the pairing becomes degenerate for fixed degree coincides with the zeros of a “tau” function. We show how this tau function satisfies the Kadomtsev–Petviashvili hierarchy with respect to either deformation parameters, and a certain modification of the 2-Toda hierarchy when considering the whole sequence of tau functions. We also show how this construction is related to the Krichever construction of algebro-geometric solutions.
Ghrelin Response to Acute and Chronic Exercise: Insights and Implications from a Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Ouerghi Nejmeddine , Feki Moncef , Bragazzi Nicola Luigi , Knechtle Beat , Hill Lee , Nikolaidis Pantelis T. , Bouassida Anissa
Published: August 2021

Background

Ghrelin is a peptide hormone predominantly produced by the stomach. It exerts a wide range of functions including stimulating growth hormone release and regulating appetite, food intake, and glucose and lipid metabolism. Since physical exercise affects all these aspects, a particular interest is accorded to the relationship between ghrelin and exercise. This systematic review aimed to summarize the current available data on the topic for a better understanding of the relationship.

Methods

An extensive computerized search was performed in the PubMed and SPORTDiscus databases for retrieving relevant articles. The search contained the following keywords: ghrelin, appetite-related peptides, gastrointestinal peptides, gastrointestinal hormones, exercise, acute exercise, chronic exercise, training, and physical activity. Studies investigating the effects of acute/chronic exercise on circulating forms of ghrelin were included.

Results

The initial search identified 840 articles. After screening, 80 articles were included. Despite a heterogeneity of studies and a variability of the findings, the review suggests that acute exercise suppresses acyl ghrelin production regardless of the participants and the exercise characteristics. Long- and very long-term exercise training programs mostly resulted in increased total and des-acyl ghrelin production. The increase is more noticeable in overweight/obese individuals, and is most likely due to weight loss resulting from the training program.

Conclusion

The review suggests that exercise may impact ghrelin production. While the precise mechanisms are unclear, the effects are likely due to blood flow redistribution and weight loss for acute and chronic exercise, respectively. These changes are expected to be metabolically beneficial. Further research is needed for a better understanding of the relationship between ghrelin and exercise.
Alliance matters: but how much? A systematic review on therapeutic alliance and outcome in patients with anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa
Authors: Werz Janina , Voderholzer Ulrich , Tuschen-Caffier Brunna
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Patients with eating disorders (ED) pose a high-risk group regarding relapse. The understanding of factors contributing to a better outcome is much-needed. Therapeutic alliance (TA) is one important, pantheoretical variable in the treatment process, which has shown to be connected with outcome. This review looks into a possible predictive effect of TA on outcome as well as related variables.

Methods

A systematic review with pre-determined inclusion criteria following the PRISMA guidelines was conducted for studies published since 2014. Three previous reviews including studies up until 2014 were analyzed for studies matching our inclusion criteria. A total of 26 studies were included.

Results

The results were heterogeneous between different patient groups. Regarding the predictive effect of TA, in adolescent samples, the TA of either the patients or their parents seems to impact outcome as well as completion. For adults, results are mixed, with a tendency to a greater impact of TA for anorexia nervosa (AN) patients, while some samples of adult bulimia nervosa (BN) patients did not find any relation between TA and outcome.

Conclusion

The effect of TA on clinical outcome depends on the patient group. TA has a greater impact on adolescents, irrespective of diagnosis, and on adults with AN. The examined studies have different limitations which include small sample sizes and questionable study design. The examination of motivation as a potential influencing factor is recommended.

Level of evidence

Level I, systematic review.
Blockchain-based green big data visualization: BGbV
Authors: Shahzad Iqra , Maqbool Ayesha , Rana Tauseef , Mirza Alina , Khan Wazir Zada , Kim Sung Won , Zikria Yousaf Bin , Din Sadia
Published: August 2021

The progression of Internet of Things (IoT) has resulted in generation of huge amount of data. Effective handling and analysis of such big volumes of data proposes a crucial challenge. Existing cloud-based frameworks of Big Data visualization are rising costs for servers, equipment, and energy consumption. There is a need for a green solution targeting lesser cost and energy consumption with tamper-proof record-keeping, storage, and interactive visualization with only demanded data. We have proposed a Blockchain-based Green big data Visualization (BGbV) solution using Hyperledger Sawtooth for optimum utilization of organization resources. BGbV will support current distributed data visualization platforms and guarantee benefits like security and data availability with lesser storage costs. It helps reduce costs by utilizing small resources that are already available and consume less energy, making it an environmentally friendly solution.
Fruit fly surveillance in Togo (West Africa): state of diversity and prevalence of species
Authors: Amevoin Komina , Agboyi L. K. , Gomina M. , Kounoutchi K. , Bassimbako K. H. , Djatoite M. , Dawonou A. V. , Tagba A.
Published: August 2021

The production and marketing of fruits, especially mango, in sub-Saharan Africa are threatened by fruit flies (Diptera: Tephritidae). This baseline study analysed the biodiversity of fruit fly species, in mango orchards, in different ecological zones of Togo. Traps used to monitor the flies in the orchards consisted of dry baits, made from four types of parapheromones specific to the males of different species. Forty species of fruit flies were identified in the mango orchards in Togo. The most common species wereBactrocera dorsalis(Hendel),Ceratitis cosyra(Walker),Ceratitis fasciventris(Bezzi),Ceratitis capitata(Wiedemann),Ceratitis bremiiGuérin-Méneville,Dacus bivittatus(Bigot),Dacus humeralis(Bezzi),Dacus punctatifronsKarsch andZeugodacus cucurbitae(Coquillett). The invasiveB. dorsalisand the endogenous species,C. cosyrawere dominant in the mango producing areas of Togo because their prevalence were very high (B. dorsalis: 2.1 ≤ flies per trap per day (FTD) ≤ 472.2;C. cosyra: 0.34 ≤ FTD ≤ 97.28). There was no area free from fruit flies in Togo during the study. These results constitute an essential reference in the future evaluation of the effectiveness of any control activities initiated in Togo against fruit flies.
A Combination of Cervicovaginal Fluid Glutamate, Acetate and D-Lactate Identified Asymptomatic Low-Risk Women Destined to Deliver Preterm: a Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Amabebe Emmanuel , Anumba Dilly O. C.
Published: August 2021

Due to the modest predictive capacities and limited clinical application of transvaginal ultrasonographic cervical length (CL) and quantitative fetal fibronectin (qfFN) in pregnant women at low risk of preterm birth (PTB), we sought to determine the utility of cervicovaginal fluid (CVF) metabolites (by-products of host-microbial metabolism) for prediction of spontaneous PTB in asymptomatic low-risk women at mid-gestation. This was a prospective sub-cohort study from the ECCLIPPx study cohort. CVF from asymptomatic singleton women (20–22 weeks, n = 168) without a prior history of PTB were analysed for metabolites by enzyme-based spectrophotometry. CL, vaginal pH and qfFN were also measured. Correlation and predictive analyses were performed by Spearman’s correlation, and binary logistic regression and area under receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), respectively. Of the 168 women enrolled, only CVF samples from 135 (80.4%) women were analysed. There were 6/135 (4.4%) spontaneous PTB (sPTBs), with two of these pregnancies ending ≤ 28 weeks’ gestation. Individually (AUC, 95% CI), only glutamate (0.72, 0.64–0.80) and CL (0.69, 0.60–0.77) were predictive of PTB. However, five multivariable models that more accurately predicted sPTB were also identified, i.e. a combination of: glutamate, acetate and D-lactate (GAD, 0.82, 0.74–0.89); CL and qfFN only (0.78, 0.70–0.85); CL, qfFN, glutamate and acetate (0.88, 0.81–0.93); CL, qfFN and GAD (0.94, 0.88–0.98); and GAD and pH (0.86, 0.79–0.92). Correlations between CL, pH and qfFN and metabolites were also observed. In this cohort, a midtrimester combination of CVF glutamate, acetate and D-lactate predicted preterm birth more accurately than individual metabolites, cervical length and fetal fibronectin with a very low false-positive rate and high positive predictive value. Further testing in populations with higher preterm birth rates is required.
Time heals all wounds: analysis of changes in temporal focus and implicit space–time mappings among survivors of the 2019 China earthquake over time
Authors: LI HENG
Published: August 2021

abstract

Accumulating evidence suggests that people’s sense of the spatial location of events in time is flexible across cultures, contexts, and individuals. Yet few studies have established whether time spatialization is correlated with traumatic experiences. Based on findings that people tend to demonstrate a past time orientation when suffering from disasters, the present research investigated how earthquake experience is associated with temporal focus and time spatialization. Study 1 compared responses of residents in an earthquake-hit area with those of residents in a non-disaster area about two weeks after the disaster had occurred. The results showed that participants in the disaster area were more past-focused and produced more past-in-front responses than participants in the non-disaster area. In Study 2, a follow-up survey was conducted in the same areas ten months after the earthquake to examine whether the impact of disasters on spatial conceptions of time would decay as time elapsed. The findings indicated that participants in these two areas showed no differences in temporal focus and implicit space–time mappings. Taken together, these findings provide support for the Temporal Focus Hypothesis. They also have implications for understanding fluctuation in temporal focus and the high malleability of temporal mappings across individuals.