bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictors, outcome and characteristics of oropharyngeal dysphagia in idiopathic inflammatory myopathy
Authors: Labeit Bendix , Perlova Ksenia , Pawlitzki Marc , Ruck Tobias , Muhle Paul , Claus Inga , Suntrup‐Krueger Sonja , Wiendl Heinz , Dziewas Rainer , Warnecke Tobias
Published: March 2021

Introduction

Oropharyngeal dysphagia is a clinical hallmark of idiopathic inflammatory myopathy (IIM). This study investigated predictors, outcome, and characteristics of oropharyngeal dysphagia in patients with different types of IIM.

Methods

Flexible endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES) videos of 71 IIM patients were retrospectively analyzed for bolus spillage, penetration, aspiration, and pharyngeal residue. Based on these findings, dysphagia severity was rated. Regression analyses were performed to investigate demographic and disease‐specific predictors of dysphagia severity and pneumonia as outcome‐relevant complications of dysphagia. A score was developed to rate the quality of the endoscopic white‐out as a surrogate marker for pharyngeal muscle weakness with consecutive residue.

Results

Our analysis revealed no independent predictors of dysphagia severity. Dysphagia severity, however, was an independent predictor for pneumonia, which occurred in 24% of patients. Pharyngeal residue with risk of postdeglutitive aspiration was the most common dysphagia pattern. Attenuation of the endoscopic white‐out was related to residue severity.

Discussion

Dysphagia in IIM assessed with FEES is associated with relevant complications, such as aspiration pneumonia, and must be considered independently of peripheral muscle weakness and disease duration. Swallowing impairment mainly presents with pharyngeal residue. The quality of the white‐out may serve as a semi‐quantitative surrogate marker for pharyngeal contractility.
Nursing students' experiences of what influences achievement of learning outcomes in a problem‐based learning context: A qualitative descriptive study
Authors: Svensson Jenny , Axén Anna , Andersson Ewa K. , Hjelm Markus
Published: March 2021

Aim

This study aimed to describe nursing students' experiences of what facilitate or impede the achievement of learning outcomes in PBL‐based nursing education.

Design

A qualitative descriptive design was used.

Methods

Data were collected from individual semi‐structured interviews with 18 undergraduate nursing students in Sweden and were analysed using Burnard's qualitative content analysis.

Results

The results were organized into three categories: (a) understanding of the required level of knowledge depth (b) tutor's engagement and (c) student base group interactions. These categories represent essential components of PBL that could either facilitate or impede students' achievement of learning outcomes in nursing education. To improve the students' opportunities to achieve the learning outcomes, proper introduction of and a continuous education on PBL as a pedagogical method provided both to students and tutors should be considered important.
Neural correlates of improved inductive reasoning ability in abacus‐trained children: A resting state fMRI study
Authors: Jia Xiuqin , Zhang Yi , Yao Yuzhao , Chen Feiyan , Liang Peipeng
Published: March 2021

Abacus‐based mental calculation (AMC) training may improve mathematics‐related abilities and transfer to other cognitive domains. Thus, it was hypothesized that inductive reasoning abilities can be improved by AMC training given the overlapping cognitive processes and neural correlates between AMC and inductive reasoning. The aim of the current study was to examine the underlying neurobiological mechanisms of this possible adaption by resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs‐fMRI). Sixty‐three children were randomly assigned to either the AMC‐trained or the nontrained group. The AMC‐trained group was required to perform abacus training for 2 hours per week for 5 years whereas the nontrained group was not required to perform any abacus training. Each participant's rs‐fMRI data were collected after abacus training, and regional homogeneity (ReHo) analysis was performed to determine the neural activity differences between groups. The participants' posttraining mathematical ability, intelligence quotients, and inductive reasoning ability were recorded and evaluated. The results revealed that AMC‐trained children exhibited a significantly higher mathematical ability and inductive reasoning performance and higher ReHo in the rostrolateral prefrontal cortex (RLPFC) compared to the nontrained group. In particular, the increased ReHo in the RLPFC was found to be positively correlated with improved inductive reasoning performance. Our findings suggest that rs‐fMRI may reflect the modulation of training in task‐related networks.
Mouse strain specificity of DAAO inhibitors‐mediated antinociception
Authors: Liu Hao , Zhou Yu‐Cong , Wang Zi‐Ying , Gong Nian , Lu Jin‐Miao , Apryani eVhy , Han Qiao‐Qiao , Wang Yong‐Xiang , Ou Mei‐Xian
Published: March 2021

D‐Amino acid oxidase (DAAO) specifically catalyzes the oxidative deamination of neutral and polar D‐amino acids and finally yields byproducts of hydrogen peroxide. Our previous work demonstrated that the spinal astroglial DAAO/hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) pathway was involved in the process of pain and morphine antinociceptive tolerance. This study aimed to report mouse strain specificity of DAAO inhibitors on antinociception and explore its possible mechanism. DAAO inhibitors benzoic acid, CBIO, and SUN significantly inhibited formalin‐induced tonic pain in Balb/c and Swiss mice, but had no antinociceptive effect in C57 mice. In contrast, morphine and gabapentin inhibited formalin‐induced tonic pain by the same degrees among Swiss, Balb/c and C57 mice. Therefore, mouse strain difference in antinociceptive effects was DAAO inhibitors specific. In addition, intrathecal injection of D‐serine greatly increased spinal H2O2 levels by 80.0% and 56.9% in Swiss and Balb/c mice respectively, but reduced spinal H2O2 levels by 29.0% in C57 mice. However, there was no remarkable difference in spinal DAAO activities among Swiss, Balb/c and C57 mice. The spinal expression of glutathione (GSH) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity in C57 mice were significantly higher than Swiss and Balb/c mice. Furthermore, the specific GPx inhibitor D‐penicillamine distinctly restored SUN antinociception in C57 mice. Our results reported that DAAO inhibitors produced antinociception in a strain‐dependent manner in mice and the strain specificity might be associated with the difference in spinal GSH and GPx activity.
Spin‐Coated Bismuth Vanadate Thin Film as an Alternative Electron Transport Layer for Light‐Emitting Diode Application
Authors: Solly Meenu Maria , Ramasamy Mohan , Poobalan Ranjith kumar , Ramanathan Ramrajan
Published: March 2021

This study describes the bismuth vanadate thin films (BVO) as an alternative electron transport layer for widely used LiF for the electron‐only device (EODs) application. The BVO thin film is spin‐coated on a glass substrate as a function of solution concentration. The X‐ray diffraction pattern of the film deposited from 10 × 10−3m (BVO1) to 150 × 10−3m (BVO4) solution concentration possesses the BiVO4 phase with a tetragonal structure, whereas the film deposited at 200 × 10−3m (BVO5) shows the Bi2V4O11 phase with an orthorhombic structure. The surface morphology of the films confirms nanoparticle formation with the lower surface roughness. The UV–visible studies show the average transmittance of the films decreases with increasing solution concentration and the maximum average transmittance of 86% is obtained in BVO1 film. This oxygen vacancy promotes the charge transfer process very effectively. The EODs fabricated using BVO1 film (BiVO4 phase) exhibits the maximum current density of 59.2 mA cm−2 with a turn‐on voltage of 4.09 V, whereas the EOD device fabricated using BVO5 film (Bi2V4O11 phase) possesses the current density of 5.9 mA cm−2 with a turn‐on voltage of 4.09 V. Hence, the fabricated EODs using the BVO electron transport layer shows applicability in the OLED device.
Nanoengineered CAR‐T Biohybrids for Solid Tumor Immunotherapy with Microenvironment Photothermal‐Remodeling Strategy
Authors: Chen Ze , Pan Hong , Luo Yingmei , Yin Ting , Zhang Baozhen , Liao Jianhong , Wang Mengmeng , Tang Xiaofan , Huang Guojun , Deng Guanjun , Zheng Mingbin , Cai Lintao
Published: March 2021

Chimeric antigen receptor T cell (CAR‐T) therapy has shown remarkable clinical success in eradicating hematologic malignancies. However, hostile microenvironment in solid tumors severely prevents CAR‐T cells migrating, infiltrating, and killing. Herein, a nanoengineered CAR‐T strategy is reported for enhancing solid tumor therapy through bioorthogonal conjugation with a nano‐photosensitizer (indocyanine green nanoparticles, INPs) as a microenvironment modulator. INPs engineered CAR‐T biohybrids (CT‐INPs) not only retain the original activities and functions of CAR‐T cells, but it is further armed with fluorescent tracing and microenvironment remodeling abilities. Irradiated with laser, CT‐INPs demonstrate that mild photothermal intervention destroys the extracellular matrix, expanded blood vessels, loosened compact tissue, and stimulated chemokine secretion without damping CAR‐T cell activities. Those regulations induce an immune‐favorable tumor microenvironment for recruitment and infiltration of CT‐INPs. CT‐INPs triggered photothermal effects collapse the physical and immunological barriers of solid tumor, and robustly boosted CAR‐T immunotherapy. Therefore, CAR‐T biohybrids provide reliable treatment strategy for solid tumor immunotherapy via microenvironment reconstruction.
Universal Passivation Strategy for the Hole Transport Layer/Perovskite Interface via an Alkali Treatment for High‐Efficiency Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Boonmongkolras Passarut , Naqvi Syed Dildar Haider , Kim Daehan , Pae Seong Ryul , Kim Min Kyu , Ahn SeJin , Shin Byungha
Published: March 2021

A passivation strategy for the perovskite/HTL interface is presented based on potassium acetate (K‐Ac). Since K‐Ac is soluble in both polar and nonpolar solvent, deposition of K‐Ac on top and bottom of perovskite is possible. With this advantage, the universality of potassium interfacial passivation at the HTL/perovskite interface applied to various configurations with various ranges of perovskite bandgap is reported. Regarding the p–i–n configuration, various materials characterizations reveal that a potassium passivation layer underneath perovskite modifies perovskite orientations, resulting in better charge transport and film properties. Furthermore, the potassium passivation layer shifts the valence band position of the HTL upward, which results in a better extraction of charges (holes) across the HTL/perovskite interface, thus improving the short‐circuit current density (Jsc). The modification of the band alignment at the HTL/perovskite by the potassium interfacial passivation layer is confirmed in n–i–p devices with both WBG and CBG perovskites. Compared to reference solar cells without a passivation layer, an increase in Jsc of approximately 1 mA cm−2 is observed in all cases, resulting in power conversion efficiencies of 19.42%, 20.06%, and 21.57% for WBG p–i–n, CBG p–i–n and n–i–p solar cells, respectively, demonstrating the wide applicability of the passivation strategy.
Investigation of different permeability properties of self‐healing cementitious composites under colloidal nano silica curing conditions
Authors: Akın Arife
Published: March 2021

In this study, the self‐healing behavior of engineered cemetitious composites (ECC) containing different types and quantities of fly ash (FA) under colloidal nano silica (CNS) curing conditions was investigated through the examination of their different permeability properties. FA in two different characters, Class F and Class C, were used in the preparation of the mixtures in high volumes (FA/portland cement = 1.2 and 2.2). Self‐healing capacities developed under CNS curing conditions were evaluated by changes in different permeability properties such as rapid chloride permeability test (RCPT) and electrical impedance measurement methods. In addition to these, the self‐healing effects of the cracked composites were supported by microstructure analysis with the help of SEM–EDX and XRD tests on the sections taken from the crack interface of the sample. The results have showed that the CNS curing condition helps improve the permeability properties of composites by quickly and effectively covering their micro pores and cracks. In addition, the results of the experiment have revealed the effects of the use of different types and quantities of FA on the self‐healing behavior of the ECC material. Finally, correlation analysis of ECC samples was applied according to the results obtained from EI and RCPT test methods and it was revealed that there was a negative significant relationship between test methods.
Experiment investigation and seismic performance evaluation of hybrid isolation bearing with uncoupled compression and shear mechanism
Authors: Xu Hao , He Wenfu , Liu Wenguang , Ye Kun , Ren Chong
Published: March 2021

Lead rubber bearings (LRBs) are widely used in the seismic isolated structures. However, the lateral and vertical stiffness of rubber bearing would degrade under high pressure and larger shear strain, which has influence on the structural safety under great earthquakes. This paper proposes a novel hybrid isolation bearing (HIB) with uncoupled compression and shear mechanism. The HIB consists of sliding bearing and rubber springs, carrying superstructural weight and providing lateral stiffness, respectively. The configuration and mechanical model of the HIB are introduced, and an experiment investigation on two sizes of HIB was completed. Through the model test, the deformation mechanism and the mechanical model were verified. A numerical simulation of a frame–shear wall structure was performed, and the variation of structural responses is illustrated. Compared with conventional LRB isolated structure, the HIB isolated structural has similar response variations under earthquakes from frequent to rare levels. Under extremely rare earthquakes, the HIB has more stable mechanical behavior.
Spin Matrix theory string backgrounds and Penrose limits of AdS/CFT
Authors: Harmark Troels , Hartong Jelle , Obers Niels A. , Oling Gerben
Published: March 2021

Abstract

Spin Matrix theory (SMT) limits provide a way to capture the dynamics of the AdS/CFT correspondence near BPS bounds. On the string theory side, these limits result in non-relativistic sigma models that can be interpreted as novel non-relativistic strings. This SMT string theory couples to non-relativistic U(1)-Galilean background geometries. In this paper, we explore the relation between pp-wave backgrounds obtained from Penrose limits of AdS5 × S5, and a new type of U(1)-Galilean backgrounds that we call flat-fluxed (FF) backgrounds. These FF backgrounds are the simplest possible SMT string backgrounds and correspond to free magnons from the spin chain perspective. We provide a catalogue of the U(1)-Galilean backgrounds one obtains from SMT limits of string theory on AdS5 × S5 and subsequently study large charge limits of these geometries from which the FF backgrounds emerge. We show that these limits are analogous to Penrose limits of AdS5 × S5 and demonstrate that the large charge/Penrose limits commute with the SMT limits. Finally, we point out that U(1)-Galilean backgrounds prescribe a symplectic manifold for the transverse SMT string embedding fields. This is illustrated with a Hamiltonian derivation for the SMT limit of a particle.
Displacement memory effect near the horizon of black holes
Authors: Bhattacharjee Srijit , Kumar Shailesh , Bhattacharyya Arpan
Published: March 2021

Abstract

We study the displacement memory effect and its connection with the extended-BMS symmetries near the horizon of black holes. We show there is a permanent shift in the geodesic deviation vector relating two nearby timelike geodesics placed close to the horizon of black holes, upon the passage of gravitational waves. We also relate this memory effect with the asymptotic symmetries near the horizon of asymptotic black hole spacetimes. The shift of the relative position of the detectors is shown to be induced by a combination of BMS generators near the horizon. The displacement memory effect near the horizon possesses similarities to the same obtained in the far region.
Emergence of Rigid Polycrystals from Atomistic Systems with Heitmann–Radin Sticky Disk Energy
Authors: Friedrich Manuel , Kreutz Leonard , Schmidt Bernd
Published: March 2021

We investigate the emergence of rigid polycrystalline structures from atomistic particle systems. The atomic interaction is governed by a suitably normalized pair interaction energy, where the ‘sticky disk’ interaction potential models the atoms as hard spheres that interact when they are tangential. The discrete energy is frame invariant and no underlying reference lattice on the atomistic configurations is assumed. By means of$$\Gamma $$Γ-convergence, we characterize the asymptotic behavior of configurations with finite surface energy scaling in the infinite particle limit. The effective continuum theory is described in terms of a piecewise constant field delineating the local orientation and micro-translation of the configuration. The limiting energy is local and concentrated on the grain boundaries, that is, on the boundaries of the zones where the underlying microscopic configuration has constant parameters. The corresponding surface energy density depends on the relative orientation of the two grains, their microscopic translation misfit, and the normal to the interface. We further provide a fine analysis of the surface energies at grain boundaries both for vacuum–solid and solid–solid phase transitions. The latter relies fundamentally on a structure result for grain boundaries showing that, due to the extremely brittle setup, interpolating boundary layers near cracks are energetically not favorable.
Diffusion-weighted MRI and histogram analysis: assessment of response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in nephroblastoma
Authors: Hötker Andreas M. , Mazaheri Yousef , Lollert André , Schenk Jens-Peter , Zheng Junting , Capanu Marinela , Akin Oguz , Graf Norbert , Staatz Gundula
Published: March 2021

Purpose

To assess the value of diffusion-weighted MRI (DW-MRI) in the non-invasive prediction of blastemal remnant after neoadjuvant chemotherapy in nephroblastoma.

Methods

This IRB-approved study included 32 pediatric patients with 35 tumors who underwent DW-MRI prior and after completion of neoadjuvant chemotherapy and subsequent surgical resection. Two blinded radiologists volumetrically assessed each tumor on pre- and post-neoadjuvant images and the parameters mean ADC, median ADC, 12.5th/25th/75th ADC percentile, skewness, and kurtosis were calculated. Blastemal remnant was determined per the pathology report. Associations between imaging features and blastemal remnant quartiles were examined using the Kruskal–Wallis test and adjusted for false discovery rate.

Results

Inter-reader agreement was high for mean ADC, skewness, kurtosis, and volume (ICC: 0.76–0.998). Pre-therapeutic histogram parameters skewness and kurtosis were found to be higher in patients with a higher amount of blastemal remnant for reader 1 (overall p = 0.035) and for kurtosis in reader 2 (overall p = 0.032) with skewness not reaching the level of statistical significance (overall p = 0.055). Higher tumor volume on pre-treatment imaging was associated with a higher amount of blastemal remnant after therapy (overall p = 0.032 for both readers).

Conclusions

Pre-treatment skewness and kurtosis of ADC histogram analysis were significantly associated with a larger fraction of a blastemal remnant after neoadjuvant chemotherapy. These findings could be incorporated into a more personalized chemotherapeutic regime in these patients and offer prognostic information at the time of initial diagnosis.
Pelvic bone CT: can tin-filtered ultra-low-dose CT and virtual radiographs be used as alternative for standard CT and digital radiographs?
Authors: Stern Christoph , Sommer Stefan , Germann Christoph , Galley Julien , Pfirrmann Christian W. A. , Fritz Benjamin , Sutter Reto
Published: March 2021

Objectives

To compare ultra-low-dose CT (ULD-CT) of the osseous pelvis with tin filtration to standard clinical CT (CT), and to assess the quality of computed virtual pelvic radiographs (VRs).

Methods

CT protocols were optimized in a phantom and three pelvic cadavers. Thirty prospectively included patients received both standard CT (automated tube voltage selection and current modulation) and tin-filtered ULD-CT of the pelvis (Sn140kV/50mAs). VRs of ULD-CT data were computed using an adapted cone beam–based projection algorithm and were compared to digital radiographs (DRs) of the pelvis. CT and DR dose parameters and quantitative and qualitative measures (1 = worst, 4 = best) were compared. CT and ULD-CT were assessed for osseous pathologies.

Results

Dose reduction of ULD-CT was 84% compared to CT, with a median effective dose of 0.38 mSv (quartile 1–3: 0.37–0.4 mSv) versus 2.31 mSv (1.82–3.58 mSv; p < .001), respectively. Mean dose of DR was 0.37 mSv (± 0.14 mSv). The median signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) of bone were significantly higher for CT (64.3 and 21.5, respectively) compared to ULD-CT (50.4 and 18.8; p ≤ .01), while ULD-CT was significantly more dose efficient (figure of merit (FOM) 927.6) than CT (FOM 167.6; p < .001). Both CT and ULD-CT were of good image quality with excellent depiction of anatomy, with a median score of 4 (4–4) for both methods (p = .1). Agreement was perfect between both methods regarding the prevalence of assessed osseous pathologies (p > .99). VRs were successfully calculated and were equivalent to DRs.

Conclusion

Tin-filtered ULD-CT of the pelvis at a dose equivalent to standard radiographs is adequate for assessing bone anatomy and osseous pathologies and had a markedly superior dose efficiency than standard CT.

Key Points

• Ultra-low-dose pelvic CT with tin filtration (0.38 mSv) can be performed at a dose of digital radiographs (0.37 mSv), with a dose reduction of 84% compared to standard CT (2.31 mSv).

• Tin-filtered ultra-low-dose CT had lower SNR and CNR and higher image noise than standard CT, but showed clear depiction of anatomy and accurate detection of osseous pathologies.

• Virtual pelvic radiographs were successfully calculated from ultra-low-dose CT data and were equivalent to digital radiographs.
Validation of the European Laryngological Society classification of glottic vascular changes as seen by narrow band imaging in the optical biopsy setting
Authors: Missale Francesco , Taboni Stefano , Carobbio Andrea Luigi Camillo , Mazzola Francesco , Berretti Giulia , Iandelli Andrea , Fragale Marco , Mora Francesco , Paderno Alberto , Del Bon Francesca , Parrinello Giampiero , Deganello Alberto , Piazza Cesare , Peretti Giorgio
Published: March 2021

Purpose

In 2016, the European Laryngological Society (ELS) proposed a classification for vascular changes occurring in glottic lesions as visible by narrow band imaging (NBI), based on the dichotomic distinction between longitudinal vessels (not suspicious) and perpendicular ones (suspicious). The aim of our study was to validate this classification assessing the interobserver agreement and diagnostic test performance in detecting the final histopathology.

Methods

A retrospective study was carried out by reviewing clinical charts, preoperative videos, and final pathologic diagnosis of patients submitted to transoral microsurgery for laryngeal lesions in two Italian referral centers. In each institution, two physicians, independently re-assessed each case applying the ELS classification.

Results

The cohort was composed of 707 patients. The pathologic report showed benign lesions in 208 (29.5%) cases, papillomatosis in 34 (4.8%), squamous intraepithelial neoplasia (SIN) up to carcinoma in situ in 200 (28.2%), and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) in 265 (37.5%). The interobserver agreement was extremely high in both institutions (k = 0.954, p < 0.001 and k = 0.880, p < 0.001). Considering the diagnostic performance for identification of at least SIN or SCC, the sensitivity was 0.804 and 0.902, the specificity 0.793 and 0.581, the positive predictive value 0.882 and 0.564, and the negative predictive value 0.678 and 0.908, respectively.

Conclusion

The ELS classification for NBI vascular changes of glottic lesions is a highly reliable tool whose systematic use allows a better diagnostic evaluation of suspicious laryngeal lesions, reliably distinguishing benign ones from those with a diagnosis of papillomatosis, SIN or SCC, thus paving the way towards confirmation of the optical biopsy concept.
Indocyanine green–mediated antimicrobial photodynamic therapy as an adjunct to periodontal therapy: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Bashir Nasir Zeeshan , Singh Har-Amrit , Virdee Satnam Singh
Published: March 2021

Objectives

The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the efficacy of indocyanine green–mediated photodynamic therapy (ICG-PDT) as an adjunct to non-surgical periodontal therapy (NSPT), in the management of chronic periodontitis.

Materials and methods

Four electronic databases (PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Embase via OVID, Web of Science) were searched for randomised controlled trials comparing NSPT with ICG-PDT to NSPT without laser therapy. Primary outcome measures were changes in probing pocket depth (PPD) and clinical attachment level (CAL). Clinical outcomes were extracted and pooled from 7 eligible trials and meta-analyses conducted using mean difference with standard deviations.

Results

For PPD, adjunctive ICG-PDT resulted in a mean additional reduction of 1.17 mm (95% CI: 0.67–1.66 mm) at 3 months and a mean additional reduction of 1.06 mm (95% CI: 0.54–1.57 mm) at 6 months. For CAL, adjunctive ICG-PDT resulted in a mean additional gain of 0.70 mm (95% CI: 0.17–1.23 mm) at 3 months and a mean additional gain of 1.03 mm (95% CI: 0.83–1.24 mm) at 6 months. No adverse events were reported in any studies.

Conclusions

The adjunctive use of ICG-PDT in NSPT results in improved treatment outcomes at 3 and 6 months post-therapy. Further investigation is needed to evaluate variables such as different photosensitiser concentrations and adjusting parameters associated with the light source.

Clinical relevance

Indocyanine green–based photosensitisers may be a novel, clinically efficacious agent for use in the management of periodontitis.
The Welfare Effects of Index-Based Livestock Insurance: Livestock Herding on Communal Lands
Authors: Bulte Erwin , Haagsma Rein
Published: March 2021

Agricultural (index) insurance for smallholders in developing countries has gained traction in academic and policy circles. The expectation is that the uptake of insurance will protect smallholders from production shocks and incentivize them to modernize production. We develop a simple theoretical model to demonstrate that the welfare effects of insurance are fundamentally ambiguous—even in the absence of transaction costs or basis risk. The second-best nature of the institutional context within which smallholders operate implies that the uptake of insurance may accentuate pre-existing inefficiencies. This idea is worked out in detail for the case of livestock herding on common grazing lands. Our theoretical model predicts that insurance invites overstocking of communal lands, and lowers the profitability of herding when common pastures are degraded.
Ethical Theory and Moral Practice at 24
Authors: Radoilska Lubomira , Ceva Emanuela
Published: March 2021

This Editorial outlines recent developments in the Journal’s scope, mission and review policy. It also illustrates the range of topics addressed on the pages of Ethical Theory and Moral Practice, which is now entering its 24th year.
Quantum state tomography with informationally complete POVMs generated in the time domain
Authors: Czerwinski Artur
Published: March 2021

The article establishes a framework for dynamic generation of informationally complete POVMs in quantum state tomography. Assuming that the evolution of a quantum system is given by a dynamical map in the Kraus representation, one can switch to the Heisenberg picture and define the measurements in the time domain. Consequently, starting with an incomplete set of positive operators, one can obtain sufficient information for quantum state reconstruction by multiple measurements. The framework has been demonstrated on qubits and qutrits. For some types of dynamical maps, it suffices to initially have one measurement operator. The results demonstrate that quantum state tomography is feasible even with limited measurement potential.
Sustainability and Potato Consumption
Authors: Gustavsen Geir Wæhler
Published: March 2021

This paper analyses the frequency of the consumption of table potatoes in Norway. The analysis shows that the frequency of potato consumption is higher in older cohorts than in younger, and it declines over the life cycle. This indicates that the total consumption will continue to decrease as older potato eating cohorts are replaced with younger cohorts who eat potatoes less frequently. This is bad for food security, it is bad for nutritional health and it is bad for the environment. It is argued that nutritional and environmental organizations should work together to increase the status of the potato.
Correction to: The Coding and Small Non-coding Hippocampal Synaptic RNAome
Authors: Epple Robert , Krüger Dennis , Berulava Tea , Brehm Gerrit , Ninov Momchil , Islam Rezaul , Köster Sarah , Fischer Andre
Published: March 2021

A Correction to this paper has been published: 10.1007/s12035-021-02349-2
DNA barcoding and cryptic diversity of deep-sea scavenging amphipods in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone (Eastern Equatorial Pacific)
Authors: Mohrbeck Inga , Horton Tammy , Jażdżewska Anna M. , Martínez Arbizu Pedro
Published: March 2021

The Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ), located in the abyssal equatorial Pacific, has been subject to intensive international exploration for polymetallic nodule mining over the last four decades. Many studies have investigated the potential effects of mining on deep-sea ecosystems and highlighted the importance of defining environmental baseline conditions occurring at potential mining sites. However, current information on biodiversity and species distributions in the CCZ is still scarce and hampers the ability to effectively manage and reduce the potential impacts of mining activities. As part of the regulatory regimes adopted by the International Seabed Authority, concession holders are required to conduct an environmental impact assessment and gather baseline data on biodiversity and community structure in relation to their license areas. In the present study, we used an integrative molecular and morphological approach to assess species richness and genetic variation of deep-sea scavenging amphipods collected in two nodule-mining exploration areas (UK-1 and OMS-1 areas) and one Area of Particular Environmental Interest (APEI-6) in the eastern part of the CCZ. We analyzed the DNA sequences of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene of 645 specimens belonging to ten distinct morphospecies. Molecular data uncover potential cryptic diversity in two investigated species, morphologically identified as Paralicella caperesca Shulenberger & Barnard, 1976 and Valettietta cf. anacantha (Birstein & Vinogradov, 1963). Our study highlights the importance of using molecular tools in conjunction with traditional morphological methods for modern biodiversity assessment studies, particularly to evaluate morphologically similar individuals and incomplete specimens. The results of this study can help determine species identity and ranges, information which can feed into environmental management.
The impact of COVID-19 on student learning in New South Wales primary schools: an empirical study
Authors: Gore Jennifer , Fray Leanne , Miller Andrew , Harris Jess , Taggart Wendy
Published: March 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic produced widespread disruption to schooling, impacting 90% of the world’s students and moving entire school systems to remote and online learning. In the state of New South Wales, Australia, most students engaged in learning from home for at least eight weeks, with subsequent individual and intermittent school closures. However, while numerous claims have circulated in the popular media and in think tank reports, internationally, about the negative impacts on learning, there is limited empirical evidence of decreased student achievement. Drawing on data from more than 4800 Year 3 and 4 students from 113 NSW government schools, this paper compares student achievement during 2019 and 2020 in a sample of matched schools to examine the effects of the system-wide disruption. Somewhat surprisingly, our analysis found no significant differences between 2019 and 2020 in student achievement growth as measured by progressive achievement tests in mathematics or reading. A more nuanced picture emerges when the sample is examined by dis/advantage (ICSEA) and Year level. The Year 3 cohort in the least advantaged schools (ICSEA < 950) achieved 2 months less growth in mathematics, while the Year 3 students in mid-ICSEA schools (950–1050) achieved 2 months’ additional growth. No significant differences were identified for Indigenous students or students located in regional locations. These results provide an important counter-narrative to widespread speculation about alarming levels of ‘learning loss’ for all students. While the lower achievement growth in mathematics for Year 3 students in lower ICSEA schools must be addressed as a matter of urgency to avoid further inequities, most students are, academically, where they are expected to be. Our findings are a testament to the dedicated work of teachers during the 2020 pandemic to ensure that learning for most students was not compromised, despite unusually trying circumstances.
A niching cross-entropy method for multimodal satellite layout optimization design
Authors: Sun Jialiang , Chen Xianqi , Zhang Jun , Yao Wen
Published: March 2021

Satellite layout optimization design (SLOD) relies on solving a high-dimensional and multimodal optimization problem, in which there exist multiple global optimal solutions. Existing algorithms for SLOD focus on seeking only one approximate global optimum. However, finding multiple solutions simultaneously could provide more design diversity for the designers. To alleviate this problem, multimodal optimization method is studied for SLOD in this paper, and an improved niching-based cross-entropy method (INCE) is proposed. INCE consists of an improved niching strategy, cross-entropy method-based offspring generation and a cross operator. CEC2013 benchmarks and satellite layout optimization design problem are investigated to verify the validity and feasibility of the proposed INCE. Compared with several state-of-the-art algorithms, the proposed algorithm performs better.
System-wide joint-dynamic-response approach to water quality evaluation in distribution networks with multiple service reservoirs and pumps
Authors: Tanyimboh Tiku T. , Seyoum Alemtsehay G.
Published: March 2021

Rigorous system-wide aggregated water quality performance indices for water distribution networks are lacking in the literature due to complexities associated with high dimensional spatial and temporal water quality data. Water quality considerations unavoidably increase performance evaluation difficulties considerably. The formulation developed in this article addresses the post-extended period simulation high-dimensional data challenges. A system-wide joint-dynamic-response approach to water quality evaluation is introduced that accounts for spatial and temporal variations in nodal demands and the respective time-varying hydraulic and water quality properties of multiple service reservoirs. Effective comparisons of the water quality response of service reservoirs and their effects were achieved. This includes individual reservoirs and the combined effects of multiple reservoirs. Service reservoirs and the nodes they supply were particularly vulnerable from the standpoint of water quality. The role of the network’s topology considering water quality risks was revealed also. The correlation between the medians and flow-weighted daily means of the water quality parameters was very strong (R2 ≥ 0.994) for the service reservoirs considered. Thus, the median could be useful as a practical performance surrogate in design optimization procedures. Finally, there seems to be an association between the flow-weighted daily means and overall hydraulic effectiveness of service reservoirs.
Buckling and vibration analysis of shape memory laminated composite beams under axially heterogeneous in-plane loads in the glass transition temperature region
Authors: Tiwari Nilesh , Shaikh A. A.
Published: March 2021

Buckling and vibration study of the shape memory polymer composites (SMPC) across the glass transition temperature under heterogeneous loading conditions are presented. Finite element analysis based on C° continuity equation through the higher order shear deformation theory (HSDT) is employed considering non linear Von Karman approach to estimate critical buckling and vibration for the temperature span from 273 to 373 K. Extensive numerical investigations are presented to understand the effect of temperature, boundary conditions, aspect ratio, fiber orientations, laminate stacking and modes of phenomenon on the buckling and vibration behavior of SMPC beam along with the validation and convergence study. Effect of thermal conditions, particularly in the glass transition region of the shape memory polymer, is considerable and presents cohesive relation between dynamic modulus properties with magnitude of critical buckling and vibration. Moreover, it has also been inferred that type of axial loading condition along with the corresponding boundary conditions significantly affect the buckling and vibration load across the glass transition region.
Effects of interphase coupling in one-dimensional particle-laden flow
Authors: Fouda Yahia M.
Published: March 2021

In Euler–Euler particle-laden flow models, the interphase coupling terms might include, in addition to the drag force, the effects of fluid pressure interaction with the particles and the volumetric displacement of the fluid phase due to the presence of the particles. This paper presents an analytical study on these effects for laminar, one-dimensional, steady, inviscid particle-laden flow. The interphase drag force is represented by a linear Stokes formula that is valid for low particle Reynolds number. It is shown mathematically that a full two-way coupling model, which includes all the aforementioned effects, depends on three parameters: inlet particle volume fraction (concentration), inlet density ratio–between the fluid and particle phases–and inlet velocity ratio. When the inlet particle concentration and density ratio are kept low at 0.01 and 0.001, respectively, both the interphase pressure coupling force and the volumetric displacement of the fluid phase are insignificant. For density ratios of 0.001 and 1 and for the inlet particle concentration values examined, the effect of pressure interaction force is not significant. However, it becomes significant for higher density ratio of 10 at inlet particle concentration of 0.1.
Multi-domain inspection of offshore wind farms using an autonomous surface vehicle
Authors: Campos Daniel Filipe , Matos Aníbal , Pinto Andry Maykol
Published: March 2021

The offshore wind power industry is an emerging and exponentially growing sector, which calls to a necessity for a cyclical monitoring and inspection to ensure the safety and efficiency of the wind farm facilities. Thus, the emersed (aerial) and immersed (underwater) scenarios must be reconstructed to create a more complete and reliable map that maximizes the observability of all the offshore structures from the wind turbines to the cable arrays, presenting a multi domain scenario.This work proposes the use of an Autonomous Surface Vehicle (ASV) to map both domains simultaneously. As such, it will produce a multi-domain map through the fusion of navigational sensors, GPS and IMU, to localize the vehicle and aid the registration process for the perception sensors, 3D Lidar and Multibeam echosounder sonar. The performed experiments demonstrate the ability of the multi-domain mapping architecture to provide an accurate reconstruction of both scenarios into a single representation using the odometry system as the initial seed to further improve the map with data filtering and registration processes. An error of 0.049 m for the odometry estimation is observed with the GPS/IMU fusion for simulated data and 0.07 m for real field tests. The multi-domain map methodology requires an average of 300 ms per iteration to reconstruct the environment, with an error of at most 0.042 m in simulation.
Fighting the First Wave
Authors: Baldwin Peter
Published: March 2021

COVID-19 is the biggest public health and economic disaster of our time. It has posed the same threat across the globe, yet countries have responded very differently and some have clearly fared much better than others. Peter Baldwin uncovers the reasons why in this definitive account of the global politics of pandemic. He shows that how nations responded depended above all on the political tools available - how firmly could the authorities order citizens' lives and how willingly would they be obeyed? In Asia, nations quarantined the infected and their contacts. In the Americas and Europe they shut down their economies, hoping to squelch the virus's spread. Others, above all Sweden, responded with a light touch, putting their faith in social consensus over coercion. Whether citizens would follow their leaders' requests and how soon they would tire of their demands were crucial to hopes of taming the pandemic.
Severe acute respiratory coronavirus virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) screening among symptom-free healthcare workers
Authors: Demmer Ryan T. , Ulrich Angela K. , Wiggen Talia D. , Strickland Ali , Naumchik Brianna M. , Kulasingam Shalini , Stovitz Steven D. , Marotz Clarisse , Belda-Ferre Pedro , Humphrey Greg , De Hoff Peter , Laurent Louise , Kline Susan , Knight Rob
Published: March 2021

Transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) is possible among symptom-free individuals. Patients are avoiding medically necessary healthcare visits for fear of becoming infected in the healthcare setting. We screened 489 symptom-free healthcare workers for SARS-CoV-2 and found no positive results, strongly suggesting that the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 was <1%.
Decreased nutrient digestibility due to viscosity is independent of the amount of dietary fibre fed to growing pigs
Authors: Hung Yuan-Tai , Zhu Jinlong , Shurson Gerald C. , Urriola Pedro E. , Saqui-Salces Milena
Published: March 2021

Fibre content and its effect on chyme viscosity are associated with changes in the digestive system of humans and pigs. It is unclear if fibre content and viscosity affect digestive function independently or interactively. We evaluated apparent ileal digestibility (AID) of nutrients and intestinal function in thirty-six ileal-cannulated barrows fed for 29 d either maize–soyabean meal (MSBM) or high-fibre MSBM + 30 % distillers dried grains with solubles (MSBM + DDGS) modified to three levels of viscosity by adding 5 % non-viscous cellulose (CEL), 6·5 % medium-viscous carboxymethylcellulose (MCMC) or 6·5 % high-viscous CMC (HCMC). Digesta were collected on days 27 and 28 and intestinal samples on day 29. Feeding CMC, regardless of fibre content, increased viscosity of whole digesta (P = 0·003) and digesta supernatant (P < 0·0001) compared with CEL. Feeding MSBM + DDGS or CMC decreased AID of DM (P = 0·003; P < 0·0001) and crude protein (P = 0·02; P < 0·0001) compared with MSBM or CEL. Feeding CMC regardless of fibre content increased jejunal crypt depth (P = 0·02) and ileal goblet cell area (P = 0·004) compared with CEL. Adding DDGS or CMC did not affect villus height and gene expression of jejunal monosaccharide and amino acid transporters. Feeding HCMC, regardless of fibre content, elevated amylase activity by 46 and 50 % in jejunal (P = 0·03) and ileal digesta (P = 0·01) compared with CEL. In summary, diets with increased viscosity decreased nutrient digestibility and induced intestinal changes that were independent of the amount of fibre fed.
Systematic review of the effects of pandemic confinements on body weight and their determinants
Authors: Khan Moien AB , Menon Preetha , Govender Romona , Abu Samra Amal MB , Allaham Kholoud K , Nauman Javaid , Östlundh Linda , Mustafa Halla , Smith Jane E.M. , AlKaabi Juma M
Published: March 2021

Pandemics and subsequent lifestyle restrictions such as ‘lockdowns’ may have unintended consequences, including alterations in body weight. This systematic review assesses the impact of pandemic confinement on body weight and identifies contributory factors. A comprehensive literature search was performed in seven electronic databases and in grey sources from their inception until 1 July 2020 with an update in PubMed and Scopus on 1 February 2021. In total, 2361 unique records were retrieved, of which forty-one studies were identified eligible: one case–control study, fourteen cohort and twenty-six cross-sectional studies (469, 362 total participants). The participants ranged in age from 6 to 86 years. The proportion of female participants ranged from 37 % to 100 %. Pandemic confinements were associated with weight gain in 7·2–72·4 % of participants and weight loss in 11·1–32·0 % of participants. Weight gain ranged from 0·6 (sd 1·3) to 3·0 (sd 2·4) kg, and weight loss ranged from 2·0 (sd 1·4) to 2·9 (sd 1·5) kg. Weight gain occurred predominantly in participants who were already overweight or obese. Associated factors included increased consumption of unhealthy food with changes in physical activity and altered sleep patterns. Weight loss during the pandemic was observed in individuals with previous low weight, and those who ate less and were more physically active before lockdown. Maintaining a stable weight was more difficult in populations with reduced income, particularly in individuals with lower educational attainment. The findings of this systematic review highlight the short-term effects of pandemic confinements.
Prediction of spring maize yields using leaf color chart, chlorophyll meter, and GreenSeeker optical sensor
Authors: Jagdeep-Singh  , Varinderpal-Singh
Published: March 2021

Predicting in-season crop yield is a unique tool for drawing important crop management decisions for precision farming. Field experiments were conducted at two locations in northwestern India under different agro-climatic zones to predict and validate spring maize yield using various in-season spectral indices. The spectral properties measured with leaf color chart (LCC), chlorophyll meter (SPAD meter), and GreenSeeker optical sensor were used to predict grain yield. A power function based on the Normalized Difference Vegetative Index (NDVI) measured with GreenSeeker optical sensor at V9 growth stage (9th leaf with fully exposed collar) presented higher values of coefficient of determination and explained 61% of the variability in spring maize grain yield, whereas NDVI measured at early and late growth stages were not reliable for the purpose. The spectral properties recorded with the SPAD meter and LCC rendered better grain yield estimates at VT growth stage (tasseling) and were respectively able to explain 75 and 76% variability in grain yield. The developed models were validated on an independent data set from another field experiment on spring maize. The normalized root mean square error (NRMSE) was <10% for LCC and SPAD at all the growth stages and at V9 growth stage for NDVI. The LCC, SPAD, and NDVI values adjusted with cumulative growing degree day were not helpful to improve NRMSE.