bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of community-based rehabilitation interventions incorporating outdoor mobility on ambulatory ability and falls-related self-efficacy after hip fracture: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Sheehan Katie J. , Fitzgerald Laura , Lambe Kate , Martin Finbarr C. , Lamb Sallie E. , Sackley Catherine
Published: June 2021

Summary

There is limited evidence from 11 randomised controlled trials on the effect of rehabilitation interventions which incorporate outdoor mobility on ambulatory ability and/or self-efficacy after hip fracture. Outdoor mobility should be central (not peripheral) to future intervention studies targeting improvements in ambulatory ability.

Purpose

Determine the extent to which outdoor mobility is incorporated into rehabilitation interventions after hip fracture. Synthesise the evidence for the effectiveness of these interventions on ambulatory ability and falls-related self-efficacy.

Methods

Systematic search of MEDLINE, Embase, PsychInfo, CINAHL, PEDro and OpenGrey for published and unpublished randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of community-based rehabilitation interventions incorporating outdoor mobility after hip fracture from database inception to January 2021. Exclusion of protocols, pilot/feasibility studies, secondary analyses of RCTs, nonrandomised and non-English language studies. Duplicate screening for eligibility, risk of bias, and data extraction sample. Random effects meta-analysis. Statistical heterogeneity with inconsistency-value (I2).

Results

RCTs (n = 11) provided limited detail on target or achieved outdoor mobility intervention components. There was conflicting evidence from 2 RCTs for the effect on outdoor walking ability at 1–3 months (risk difference 0.19; 95% confidence intervals (CI): 0.21, 0.58; I2 = 92%), no effect on walking endurance at intervention end (standardised mean difference 0.05; 95% CI: − 0.26, 0.35; I2 = 36%); and suggestive (CI crosses null) of a small effect on self-efficacy at 1–3 months (standardised mean difference 0.25; 95% CI: − 0.29, 0.78; I2 = 87%) compared with routine care/sham intervention.

Conclusion

It was not possible to attribute any benefit observed to an outdoor mobility intervention component due to poor reporting of target or achieved outdoor mobility and/or quality of the underlying evidence. Given the low proportion of patients recovering outdoor mobility after hip fracture, future research on interventions with outdoor mobility as a central component is warranted.

Trial registration

PROSPERO registration: CRD42021236541
Analytical and in silico study of the inclusion complexes between tropane alkaloids atropine and scopolamine with cyclodextrins
Authors: Butnariu Monica , Peana Massimiliano , Sarac Ioan , Chirumbolo Salvatore , Tzoupis Haralampos , Chasapis Christos T. , Bjørklund Geir
Published: June 2021

Datura stramonium L. (Solanaceae) possesses a rich tropane alkaloids (TAs) spectrum. The plant contains, in particular, the allelopathic compounds scopolamine and atropine, which are poorly soluble in water, thus limiting their use in agrochemical formulations as biocidal and deterrent agents against herbivore insects. The efficacy of the hydrophobic TAs extracts could be increased with the improvement of their dissolution/leaching properties. This is important for improving screening and test performance and for elucidating the activity of environmentally friendly agricultural approaches, with new perspectives for the production and use of those biodegradable insecticidal products. The present study explores the aspects of atropine and scopolamine complexation with cyclodextrin (CDs) through FT-IR and UV–Vis spectroscopies. In addition, the structures of the inclusion complex of atropine, scopolamine and β-CD have been investigated by molecular modeling techniques. The results obtained indicate that β-CDs are a promising carriers for improving the properties of TAs, therefore increasing their application potential in agrochemical formulations.

Graphic abstract
Data based model predictive control for ring rolling
Authors: Lafarge Rémi , Hütter Sebastian , Tulke Marc , Halle Thorsten , Brosius Alexander
Published: June 2021

Thermomechanical ring rolling is an evolution of the process where deformation and heat treatment are combined to obtain a product with both the desired geometry and hardness or microstructure in a single step. However, the high sensitivity of the process to the initial condition and to various disturbances limits its repeatability and accuracy. In this paper, the authors implement a concept for hardness control of ring rolling in virtual experiments. A concept based on soft sensors and model predictive control is implemented on a digital twin. The operation of the different models needed for this control loop are detailed and the controller itself is illustrated.
Novel RNAi-Based Therapies for Atherosclerosis
Authors: Ruotsalainen Anna-Kaisa , Mäkinen Petri , Ylä-Herttuala Seppo
Published: June 2021

Purpose of Review

Atherosclerosis, defined by inflammation and accumulation of cholesterol, extracellular matrix, and cell debris into the arteries is a common factor behind cardiovascular diseases (CVD), such as coronary artery disease, peripheral artery disease, and stroke. In this review, we discuss and describe novel RNA interference (RNAi)-based therapies in clinical trials and on the market.

Recent Findings

The first RNAi-based therapies have entered clinical use for the control of atherosclerosis risk factors, i.e., blood cholesterol levels. The most advanced treatment is silencing of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) with a drug called inclisiran, which has been approved for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia in late 2020, and results in a robust decrease in plasma cholesterol levels.

As the new RNAi therapies for atherosclerosis are now entering markets, the usefulness of these therapies will be further evaluated in larger patient cohorts. Thus, it remains to be seen how fast, effectively and eminently these new drugs consolidate their niche within the cardiovascular disease drug palette.
Cultural Adaptation and Validity of the Sniffin’ Sticks Psychophysical Test for the UK Setting
Authors: Langstaff Lorna , Clark Allan , Salam Mahmoud , Philpott Carl M.
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Olfactory testing must be culturally adapted to be relevant to the target population. This study aimed to validate the Sniffin’ Sticks test for the UK setting.

Methods

A cohort study was conducted at a tertiary olfactory dysfunction clinic. Phase 1—healthy volunteers underwent the original German identification test followed by a UK adapted version. Phase 2—patients with olfactory dysfunction underwent the extended smell test (TDI) including the new descriptors. Outcome measures included differences in identification test (phase 1), retest reliability and differences in scores before and after treatment.

Results

A total of 31 healthy volunteers and 87 patients were recruited (6 and 31 males, respectively). Phase 1—mean identification scores showed a small improvement after descriptor adaptations (13.77 and 14.57, p = 0.0029). Phase 2—41 untreated participants had a mean identification score of 7.31 at both intervals (95% CI: − 1.15 to 1.15, p > 0.999). The mean change in treated participants was 1.88 (0.70 to 3.06, p = 0.0224). TDI score difference between treated and untreated groups was 6.63 (2.48 to 10.79, p = 0.0023). The intraclass correlation coefficient for untreated patients was high for both TDI score (ICC = 0.82, 95% CI 0.57 to 0.93) and identification score (ICC = 0.80, 0.52 to 0.93); CIs suggest the reliability is moderate to excellent.

Conclusions

This study confirms the validity of the descriptor adaptations of the identification component of the Sniffin’ Sticks test to distinguish between health and disease.

Implications

The Sniffin’ Sticks test can now reliably be used for clinical assessment of British patients, modifying only the descriptors.
Equilibrium thermodynamics and the genesis of protein–protein complexes in cells
Authors: Jennings Robert C. , Belgio Erica , Zucchelli Giuseppe
Published: June 2021

It is often thought that the structural complexity of living organisms places Life outside the laws of Physics. According to the Second Law of Thermodynamics, inanimate matter tends towards ever-increasing randomness. Most thermodynamic studies on the living system are course-grained in the sense that it is the whole organism which is considered and they lack microscopic details. In these studies, as the living system is an open system, non-linear thermodynamics have been used. This requires that a number of assumptions be made concerning the living system itself, which may not be correct in organisms living under natural environmental conditions. In the present study, we depart from this approach and use a fine-grained analysis of the genesis of subcellular protein complex structures. The analysis is performed in terms of classical equilibrium thermodynamics using the acquired knowledge of protein/protein interactions. In this way, it is demonstrated that the spontaneous creation of ordered subcellular structures occurs in accordance with the Second Law of Thermodynamics. We specifically consider the simple example of protein dimer and trimer formation from its monomer components, both in vitro and with chaperone assistance in vivo. The entropy decrease associated with protein complex assembly, on which the continuing debate is founded, is shown to be a relatively small component in the overall and positive entropy increase.

Graphic abstract
Nonlinear Conditions for Ultradifferentiability
Authors: Nenning David Nicolas , Rainer Armin , Schindl Gerhard
Published: June 2021

A remarkable theorem of Joris states that a function f is $$C^\infty $$

C
∞

if two relatively prime powers of f are $$C^\infty $$

C
∞

. Recently, Thilliez showed that an analogous theorem holds in Denjoy–Carleman classes of Roumieu type. We prove that a division property, equivalent to Joris’s result, is valid in a wide variety of ultradifferentiable classes. Generally speaking, it holds in all dimensions for non-quasianalytic classes. In the quasianalytic case we have general validity in dimension one, but we also get validity in all dimensions for certain quasianalytic classes.
Recent advances in the pathology of prodromal non-motor symptoms olfactory deficit and depression in Parkinson’s disease: clues to early diagnosis and effective treatment
Authors: Bang Yeojin , Lim Juhee , Choi Hyun Jin
Published: June 2021

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized by movement dysfunction due to selective degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta. Non-motor symptoms of PD (e.g., sensory dysfunction, sleep disturbance, constipation, neuropsychiatric symptoms) precede motor symptoms, appear at all stages, and impact the quality of life, but they frequently go unrecognized and remain untreated. Even when identified, traditional dopamine replacement therapies have little effect. We discuss here the pathology of two PD-associated non-motor symptoms: olfactory dysfunction and depression. Olfactory dysfunction is one of the earliest non-motor symptoms in PD and predates the onset of motor symptoms. It is accompanied by early deposition of Lewy pathology and neurotransmitter alterations. Because of the correlation between olfactory dysfunction and an increased risk of progression to PD, olfactory testing can potentially be a specific diagnostic marker of PD in the prodromal stage. Depression is a prevalent PD-associated symptom and is often associated with reduced quality of life. Although the pathophysiology of depression in PD is unclear, studies suggest a causal relationship with abnormal neurotransmission and abnormal adult neurogenesis. Here, we summarize recent progress in the pathology of the non-motor symptoms of PD, aiming to provide better guidance for its effective management.
The Limits of Labelling: Incidental Sex Work Among Gay, Bisexual, and Queer Young Men on Social Media
Authors: Morris Max
Published: June 2021

Introduction

The termincidental sex workrefers to forms of casual, occasional, unsolicited commercial sex, arranged between gay, bisexual, and queer men on social media platforms such as Grindr. This paper explores the limits of labelling sexual identities, and how definitions of “sex” and “work” have become increasingly unstable in the digital age.

Methods

This study used mixed methods, with the primary mode of data collection being qualitative interviews with young gay, bisexual, and queer men conducted between May 2015 and April 2016. The interviews incorporated a nine-point sexuality scale and photo-elicitation procedures to prompt further discussions. Through the participant recruitment process, the study also generated an informal survey of 1473 Grindr users aged 18 to 28, finding that 14.6% had been paid for sex, most of whom (8.2%) had done so “incidentally.”

Results

The 50 interview participants discussed being paid for sex 358 times. This paper focuses on their narratives of labelling, identity politics, sexual normativity, and social stigma. All participants distanced themselves from labels such as “prostitute,” “rent boy,” or “sex worker” given that their behaviours were not seen as “regular” or “professional” enough, alongside seeking to avoid association with stigmatising stereotypes of sex work. These results are compared with the participants’ experiences of coming out as gay, bisexual, and queer.

Discussion

These narratives are interpreted using queer theory to understand those whose behaviours and identities do not conform to normative (legal, medical, social) discourses of sex work. The implications of this hidden population for campaigners, policymakers, and healthcare practitioners are discussed, contributing to ongoing debates around harm reduction and social policy.
Scenario reduction methodologies under uncertainties for reservoir development purposes: distance-based clustering and metaheuristic algorithm
Authors: Mahjour Seyed Kourosh , Santos Antonio Alberto Souza , Correia Manuel Gomes , Schiozer Denis José
Published: June 2021

The simulation process under uncertainty needs numerous reservoir models that can be very time-consuming. Hence, selecting representative models (RMs) that show the uncertainty space of the full ensemble is required. In this work, we compare two scenario reduction techniques: (1) Distance-based Clustering with Simple Matching Coefficient (DCSMC) applied before the simulation process using reservoir static data, and (2) metaheuristic algorithm (RMFinder technique) applied after the simulation process using reservoir dynamic data. We use these two methods as samples to investigate the effect of static and dynamic data usage on the accuracy and rate of the scenario reduction process focusing field development purposes. In this work, a synthetic benchmark case named UNISIM-II-D considering the flow unit modelling is used. The results showed both scenario reduction methods are reliable in selecting the RMs from a specific production strategy. However, the obtained RMs from a defined strategy using the DCSMC method can be applied to other strategies preserving the representativeness of the models, while the role of the strategy types to select the RMs using the metaheuristic method is substantial so that each strategy has its own set of RMs. Due to the field development workflow in which the metaheuristic algorithm is used, the number of required flow simulation models and the computational time are greater than the workflow in which the DCSMC method is applied. Hence, it can be concluded that static reservoir data usage on the scenario reduction process can be more reliable during the field development phase.
Reservoir characterization and identification of new prospect in Srikail gas field using wireline and seismic data
Authors: Hossain Md. Imam Sohel , Woobaidullah A. S. M. , Rahman Md. Jamilur
Published: June 2021

Although reservoir characterization has been carried out by many researchers on the sedimentary package of the Bengal basin hydrocarbon province, integration of petrophysical and seismic sequence-based reservoir evaluation is rarely taken into account. This paper focuses on the identification of gas zones, reserve estimation and identification of new prospects in Srikail gas field within the eastern fold belt of Bengal basin integrating four wireline logs and 2D seismic data. Our study finds seven hydrocarbon-bearing zones (A, B, C, D, E, F and G) within the measured depth between 2429.5 and 3501 m. Petrophysical properties of seven hydrocarbon-bearing zones indicate that they are good quality reservoir sands. The gas horizons were mapped on seismic sections which reveal that the NW–SE anticlinal structure is largely affected by channels in the crest and western flank. The channels are infilled by fine-grained sediments which act as cap rock on northern and western parts of the structure. Thus, the anticlinal structure and fine-grained sediments make a potential trap for hydrocarbon accumulation and laterally and vertically well-distributed sequence remnants are the main reservoir rocks in this area. Volumetric reserve estimation of these sands provided a total gas initially in place as 552 billion cubic feet. Moreover, all the four wells are drilled in the southern block of the structure, and since there is a structural continuity from south to the north, it is highly recommended to drill a well up to 3000 m depth in the northern block to test its hydrocarbon potentiality. Overall, the outcomes of this study contribute new insights for reservoir characterization and identification of new prospects in an efficient way.
Generalization of low rank parity-check (LRPC) codes over the ring of integers modulo a positive integer
Authors: Kamwa Djomou Franck Rivel , Talé Kalachi Hervé , Fouotsa Emmanuel
Published: June 2021

Following the work of Gaborit et al. (in: The international workshop on coding and cryptography (WCC 13), 2013) defining LRPC codes over finite fields, Renner et al. (in: IEEE international symposium on information theory, ISIT 2020, 2020) defined LRPC codes over the ring of integers modulo a prime power, inspired by the paper of Kamche and Mouaha (IEEE Trans Inf Theory 65(12):7718–7735, 2019) which explored rank metric codes over finite principal ideal rings. In this work, we successfully extend the work of Renner et al. by constructing LRPC codes over the ring $$\mathbb {Z}_{m}$$

Z
m

which is not a chain ring. We give a decoding algorithm and we study the failure probability of the decoder.
Role of lung ultrasound for the etiological diagnosis of acute lower respiratory tract infection (ALRTI) in children: a prospective study
Authors: Buonsenso Danilo , Musolino Annamaria , Ferro Valentina , De Rose Cristina , Morello Rosa , Ventola Chiara , Liotti Flora Marzia , De Sanctis Rita , Chiaretti Antonio , Biasucci Daniele Guerino , Spanu Teresa , Sanguinetti Maurizio , Valentini Piero
Published: June 2021

Objective and design

Our prospective study assesses the role of detailed lung ultrasound (LUS) features to discriminate the etiological diagnosis of acute lower respiratory tract infection (ALRTI) in children.

Methodology

We analyzed patients aged from 1 month to 17 years admitted between March 2018 and April 2020 who were hospitalized for ALRTI. For all patients, history, clinical parameters, microbiological data, and lung ultrasound data were collected. Patients were stratified into three main groups (“bacterial”, “viral”, “atypical”) according to the presumed microbial etiology and LUS findings evaluated according to the etiological group. Nasopharyngeal swabs were obtained from all patients. A qualitative diagnostic test developed by Nurex S.r.l. was used for identification of bacterial and fungal DNA in respiratory samples. The Seegene Allplex™ Respiratory assays were used for the molecular diagnosis of viral respiratory pathogens. In addition, bacterial culture of blood and respiratory samples were performed, when indicated.

Results

A total of 186 children with suspected ALRTI (44% female) with an average age of 6 were enrolled in the study. We found that some ultrasound findings as size, number and distribution of consolidations, the position and motion of air bronchograms, pleural effusions and distribution of vertical artifacts significantly differ (p < 0.05) in children with bacterial, viral and atypical ALRTI.

Conclusion

Our study provides a detailed analysis of LUS features able to predict the ALRTI ethology in children. These findings may help the physicians to better manage a child with ALRTI and to offer personalized approach, from diagnosis to treatment and follow-up.
An Up-to-Date Review on Industrially Significant Inhibitors for Corrosion Control of Zinc
Authors: Pais Mikitha , Rao Padmalatha
Published: June 2021

Zinc, an important nonferrous metal, is the fourth most used metal in the world. It has innumerable uses in industrial as well as in other segments. The primary utility of zinc is in galvanization and as an anode in the battery. Steel coated with zinc, which is known as galvanized steel, is widely used in industries. Even though zinc protects many metals from undergoing corrosion, by itself, it undergoes corrosion in several acidic, alkaline, and neutral environments. The corrosion behavior of zinc is significant in all industries where it is utilized either directly or indirectly in the form of a sacrificial coating. In-depth analysis of the reported literature indicated that corrosion attenuation of zinc in acidic and alkaline medium was studied by many researchers, and various classes of inhibitors were tried under varying experimental conditions. Most inhibitors can be amalgamated as excellent inhibitors with an inhibition efficiency of 80–90%. Even though this is a subject of intense research, systematic documentation on the same is not available in the literature. This review consolidates research work on corrosion and inhibition studies of zinc and galvanized steel over a period of three decades.
Implementation analysis of IoT-based offloading frameworks on cloud/edge computing for sensor generated big data
Authors: Bajaj Karan , Sharma Bhisham , Singh Raman
Published: June 2021

The Internet of Things (IoT) applications and services are increasingly becoming a part of daily life; from smart homes to smart cities, industry, agriculture, it is penetrating practically in every domain. Data collected over the IoT applications, mostly through the sensors connected over the devices, and with the increasing demand, it is not possible to process all the data on the devices itself. The data collected by the device sensors are in vast amount and require high-speed computation and processing, which demand advanced resources. Various applications and services that are crucial require meeting multiple performance parameters like time-sensitivity and energy efficiency, computation offloading framework comes into play to meet these performance parameters and extreme computation requirements. Computation or data offloading tasks to nearby devices or the fog or cloud structure can aid in achieving the resource requirements of IoT applications. In this paper, the role of context or situation to perform the offloading is studied and drawn to a conclusion, that to meet the performance requirements of IoT enabled services, context-based offloading can play a crucial role. Some of the existing frameworks EMCO, MobiCOP-IoT, Autonomic Management Framework, CSOS, Fog Computing Framework, based on their novelty and optimum performance are taken for implementation analysis and compared with the MAUI, AnyRun Computing (ARC), AutoScaler, Edge computing and Context-Sensitive Model for Offloading System (CoSMOS) frameworks. Based on the study of drawn results and limitations of the existing frameworks, future directions under offloading scenarios are discussed.
A construction of a conformal Chebyshev chaotic map based authentication protocol for healthcare telemedicine services
Authors: Dharminder Dharminder , Kumar Uddeshaya , Gupta Pratik
Published: June 2021

The outbreak of coronavirus has caused widespread global havoc, and the implementation of lockdown to contain the spread of the virus has caused increased levels of online healthcare services. Upgraded network technology gives birth to a new interface “telecare medicine information systems” in short TMIS. In this system, a user from a remote area and a server located at the hospital can establish a connection to share the necessary information between them. But, it is very clear that all the information is always being transmitted over a public channel. Chaotic map possesses a dynamic structure and it plays a very important role in the construction of a secure and efficient authentication protocols, but they are generally found vulnerable to identity-guess, password-guess, impersonation, and stolen smart-card. We have analyzed (Li et al. in Fut Gen Comput Syst 840:149–159, 2018; Madhusudhan and Nayak Chaitanya in A robust authentication scheme for telecare medical information systems, 2008; Zhang et al in Privacy protection for telecare medicine information systems using a chaotic map-based three-factor authenticated key agreement scheme, 2017; Dharminder and Gupta in Pratik security analysis and application of Chebyshev Chaotic map in the authentication protocols, 2019) and found that Bergamo’s attack (IEEE Trans Circ Syst 52(7):1382–1393, 2005) cannot be resisted by the protocol. Although few of the protocols ensures efficient computations but they cannot ensure an anonymous and secure communication. Therefore, we have proposed a secure and efficient chaotic map based authentication protocol that can be used in telecare medicine information system. This protocol supports verified session keys with only two messages of exchange. Moreover, we have analysed the performance of proposed protocol with relevant protocols and it is being implemented in “Automated Validation of Internet Security Protocols and Applications” respectively.
Iron-Imprinted Single-Atomic Site Catalyst-Based Nanoprobe for Detection of Hydrogen Peroxide in Living Cells
Authors: Lyu Zhaoyuan , Ding Shichao , Wang Maoyu , Pan Xiaoqing , Feng Zhenxing , Tian Hangyu , Zhu Chengzhou , Du Dan , Lin Yuehe
Published: June 2021

Fe-based single-atomic site catalysts (SASCs), with the natural metalloproteases-like active site structure, have attracted widespread attention in biocatalysis and biosensing. Precisely, controlling the isolated single-atom Fe-N-C active site structure is crucial to improve the SASCs’ performance. In this work, we use a facile ion-imprinting method (IIM) to synthesize isolated Fe-N-C single-atomic site catalysts (IIM-Fe-SASC). With this method, the ion-imprinting process can precisely control ion at the atomic level and form numerous well-defined single-atomic Fe-N-C sites. The IIM-Fe-SASC shows better peroxidase-like activities than that of non-imprinted references. Due to its excellent properties, IIM-Fe-SASC is an ideal nanoprobe used in the colorimetric biosensing of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Using IIM-Fe-SASC as the nanoprobe, in situ detection of H2O2 generated from MDA-MB-231 cells has been successfully demonstrated with satisfactory sensitivity and specificity. This work opens a novel and easy route in designing advanced SASC and provides a sensitive tool for intracellular H2O2 detection.
Functional Surfactants for Molecular Fishing, Capsule Creation, and Single-Cell Gene Expression
Authors: Chowdhury Mohammad Suman , Zhang Xingcai , Amini Leila , Dey Pradip , Singh Abhishek Kumar , Faghani Abbas , Schmueck-Henneresse Michael , Haag Rainer
Published: June 2021

Creating a single surfactant that is open to manipulation, while maintaining its surface activity, robustness, and compatibility, to expand the landscape of surfactant-dependent assays is extremely challenging. We report an oxidation-responsive precursor with thioethers and multiple 1,2-diols for creating a variety of functional surfactants from one parent surfactant. Using these multifunctional surfactants, we stabilize microfluidics-generated aqueous droplets. The droplets encapsulate different components and immerse in a bioinert oil with distinct interfaces where an azide-bearing surfactant allow fishing of biomolecules from the droplets, aldehyde-bearing surfactant allow fabrication of microcapsules, and hydroxyl-bearing surfactants, with/without oxidized thioethers, allow monitoring of single-cell gene expression. Creating multifunctional surfactants poses opportunities for broad applications, including adsorption, bioanalytics, catalysis, formulations, coatings, and programmable subset of emulsions.
Punishing defectors and rewarding cooperators: Do people discriminate between genders?
Authors: Capraro Valerio , Barcelo Hélène
Published: June 2021

Do people discriminate between men and women when they have the option to punish defectors or reward cooperators? Here, we report on four pre-registered experiments that shed some light on this question. Study 1 (N = 544) shows that people do not discriminate between genders when they have the option to punish (reward) defectors (cooperators) in a one-shot prisoner’s dilemma with third-party punishment/reward. Study 2 (N = 253) extends Study 1 to a different method of punishing/rewarding: participants are asked to rate the behaviour of a defector/cooperator on a scale of 1–5 stars. In this case too, we find that people do not discriminate between genders. Study 3a (N = 331) and Study 3b (N = 310) conceptually replicate Study 2 with a slightly different gender manipulation. These latter studies show that, in situations where they do not have specific beliefs about the gender of the defector/cooperator’s partner, neither men nor women discriminate between genders.
Virulence of Rhynchosporium commune isolates collected in Iceland
Authors: Novakazi Fluturë , Göransson Magnus , Stefánsson Tryggvi Sturla , Jalli Marja , Hallsson Jón Hallsteinn
Published: June 2021

Various fungal species continue to be one of the most difficult challenges faced by farmers, and hence societies in whole, when it comes to securing plentiful and wholesome food for a rapidly growing human population. Understanding the biology of pathogenic fungi in detail, both at the population and molecular levels, combined with continued emphasis on resistance breeding of important crops, offers the most obvious sustainable solution to this pressing problem. Here we present results of virulence testing and microsatellite analysis on a collection of Icelandic Rynchosporium commune isolates to test whether the previously demonstrated genetic diversity observed translated into functional diversity in the virulence of these isolates. Our results show considerable diversity in the virulence of the Icelandic R. commune samples with each isolate having a unique virulence spectrum on the 15 near-isogenic barley lines used for screening. Our findings have practical implications, showing that even with short continuous barley cultivation and isolation by geographical distance, breeding for Icelandic, and likely other remote or isolated locations, still needs to consider the importance of disease resistance in breeding decisions and variation in local pathotypes. Moreover, our analysis is the first step to focused breeding for disease resistance for Icelandic conditions, an important step in the ongoing Icelandic barley breeding project.
Multi-channel capsule network ensemble for plant disease detection
Authors: Peker Musa
Published: June 2021

This study presents a new deep learning approach based on capsule networks and ensemble learning for the detection of plant diseases. The developed method is called as multi-channel capsule network ensemble. The main innovation behind the proposed method is the use of multi-channel capsule networks, individually trained on images applied different preprocessing techniques and then combined together. In this way, the final ensemble can better detect plant diseases by making use of different attributes of the data. Our experiments carried out using a well-known data set and various state-of-the-art classification methods demonstrate that our classification approach can provide competitive advantages in terms of classification accuracy.

Article Highlights

An ensemble of capsule networks has been developed for the automated detection of plant diseases with high accuracies.

Better accuracy has been achieved with ensemble learning compared to a single model

With the proposed method, better results have been obtained compared to state-of-the-art classification methods in the literature
Towards Regulatory-Compliant MLOps: Oravizio’s Journey from a Machine Learning Experiment to a Deployed Certified Medical Product
Authors: Granlund Tuomas , Stirbu Vlad , Mikkonen Tommi
Published: June 2021

Agile software development embraces change and manifests working software over comprehensive documentation and responding to change over following a plan. The ability to continuously release software has enabled a development approach where experimental features are put to use, and, if they stand the test of real use, they remain in production. Examples of such features include machine learning (ML) models, which are usually pre-trained, but can still evolve in production. However, many domains require more plan-driven approach to avoid hazard to environment and humans, and to mitigate risks in the process. In this paper, we start by presenting continuous software engineering practices in a regulated context, and then apply the results to the emerging practice of MLOps, or continuous delivery of ML features. Furthermore, as a practical contribution, we present a case study regarding Oravizio, first CE-certified medical software for assessing the risks of joint replacement surgeries. Towards the end of the paper, we also reflect the Oravizio experiences to MLOps in regulatory context.
Autonomy for Space Robots: Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Nesnas Issa A.D. , Fesq Lorraine M. , Volpe Richard A.
Published: June 2021

Purpose of Review

The purpose of this review is to highlight space autonomy advances across mission phases, capture the anticipated need for autonomy and associated rationale, assess state of the practice, and share thoughts for future advancements that could lead to a new frontier in space exploration.

Recent Findings

Over the past two decades, several autonomous functions and system-level capabilities have been demonstrated and used in spacecraft operations. In spite of that, spacecraft today remain largely reliant on ground in the loop to assess situations and plan next actions, using pre-scripted command sequences. Advances have been made across mission phases including spacecraft navigation; proximity operations; entry, descent, and landing; surface mobility and manipulation; and data handling. But past successful practices may not be sustainable for future exploration. The ability of ground operators to predict the outcome of their plans seriously diminishes when platforms physically interact with planetary bodies, as has been experienced in two decades of Mars surface operations. This results from uncertainties that arise due to limited knowledge, complex physical interaction with the environment, and limitations of associated models.

Robotics and autonomy are synergistic, wherein robotics provides flexibility, autonomy exercises it to more effectively and robustly explore unknown worlds. Such capabilities can be substantially advanced by leveraging the rapid growth in SmallSats, the relative accessibility of near-Earth objects, and the recent increase in launch opportunities.
Maternal feeding patterns affect the offspring’s brain: focus on serotonin 5-HT2C and 5-HT2A receptors
Authors: Gawlińska Kinga , Gawliński Dawid , Filip Małgorzata , Przegaliński Edmund
Published: June 2021

Background

Recent studies have shown a relationship between the composition of the maternal diet and acquiring a risk of mental illnesses through changes in the offspring’s brain. This study assessed the role of a modified maternal diet on the levels of serotonin (5-HT)2C and 5-HT2A receptors in the offspring brain.

Methods

Wistar rat dams during gestation and lactation were maintained either on a standard (SD) or special diets: high-fat (HFD), high-carbohydrate (rich in sucrose, HCD) or mixed (MD). Offspring were weaned to SD after lactation, and at postnatal days (PNDs) 28 and 63 changes in the 5-HT2C and 5-HT2A receptor levels were evaluated in their prefrontal cortex (PFCx), nucleus accumbens (NAc), dorsal striatum (DSTR) and hippocampus (HIP).

Results

Maternal HFD reduced the expression of 5-HT2C receptors in male rats at PND 28 in the PFCx, NAc, and DSTR but increased it at PND 63 in male animals in the NAc and DSTR. HCD induced a decrease in the expression of 5-HT2C receptors in male offspring at PND 28 but increased it in female rats at PND 63 in the PFCx. MD reduced 5-HT2C receptor expression in males at PND 28 in the PFCx and increased it in male and female offspring at PND 28 in the HIP. Moreover, maternal HFD reduced 5-HT2A receptor levels within the PFCx in adolescent male offspring.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that a modified maternal diet induces age- and sex-specific adaptive changes mainly in 5-HT2C receptors, which may contribute to disturbances in the offspring brain.

Graphic abstract
Promoting college and career readiness among underserved adolescents: A mixed methods pilot study
Authors: Gee Kevin A. , Beno Carolynne , Lindstrom Lauren , Lind John , Gau Jeff , Post Cindy
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Many underserved adolescents, defined as those with inequitable access to educational resources, face limited access to interventions that develop their college and career know‐how. In our study, we implemented and evaluated a pilot college and career readiness curriculum intervention called Paths to the Future for All (P2F4A). P2F4A takes a developmental approach to college and career development, weaving together the procedural know‐how of college and career planning with a broader focus on building social‐emotional skills that support positive trajectories towards the future. We evaluated pre‐post changes in adolescents’ career‐related and social‐emotional outcomes alongside views of their personal growth.

Methods

We used a purposeful sample of five schools in the Western region of the United States and recruited a sample of adolescents (N = 61; Mage = 16.3 years; 57.4% female) who experienced challenging academic and life circumstances to participate in P2F4A. We conducted pre‐post surveys as well as focus groups and interviews with adolescents.

Results

We detected significant (p < .05) pre‐post gains in adolescents’ knowledge of P2F4A curricular content and selected coping skills, such as relaxing and solving family problems. Our focus groups and interviews revealed that P2F4A helped adolescents build stronger interpersonal relationships with peers and the content was directly applicable to real life.

Conclusion

Our new findings suggest that college and career readiness curriculum interventions—if appropriately developed for and targeted to underserved adolescents—have strong potential to build underserved adolescents’ foundational skills that they can apply towards realizing their future college and career aspirations.
A Course in English Language Teaching
Authors: Ur Penny
Published: June 2021

This book provides a comprehensive introduction to English language teaching, and is suitable for teachers in a variety of educational settings, including compulsory education. It has been completely revised and updated to include essential new topics for the modern English language teacher, including English as an international language, Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) and using digital materials. It is ideal for initial teacher training and as a reference guide for practising teachers. The book combines theory and practice, with each unit containing tasks that encourage reflection and discussion, plus action tasks such as classroom observation and practice.
CLIL
Authors: Coyle Do , Hood Philip , Marsh David
Published: June 2021

CLIL (Content and Language Integrated Learning) has emerged since the millennium as a major trend in education. Written by Do Coyle, Philip Hood and David Marsh and drawing on their experience of CLIL in secondary schools, primary schools and English language schools across Europe, this book gives a comprehensive overview of CLIL. It summarises the theory which underpins the teaching of a content subject through another language and discusses its practical application, outlining the key directions for the development of research and practice. This book acknowledges the uncertainty many teachers feel about CLIL, because of the requirement for both language and subject knowledge, while providing theoretical and practical routes towards successful practice for all.
Engaging Language Learners in Contemporary Classrooms
Authors: Mercer Sarah , Dörnyei Zoltán
Published: June 2021

This accessible book offers a fresh perspective on engagement, with an emphasis on how teachers can create the conditions for active engagement and the role learners can play in shaping the way they learn. Drawing on extensive theoretical knowledge, the book takes an applied approach, providing clear principles and practical strategies for teachers.
Real Estate and Global Urban History
Authors: Yates Alexia
Published: June 2021

Capitalist private property in land and buildings – real estate – is the ground of modern cities, materially, politically, and economically. It is foundational to their development and core to much theoretical work on the urban environment. It is also a central, pressing matter of political contestation in contemporary cities. Yet it remains largely without a history. This Element examines the modern city as a propertied space, defining real estate as a technology of (dis)possession and using it to move across scales of analysis, from the local spatiality of particular built spaces to the networks of legal, political, and economic imperatives that constitute property and operate at national and international levels. This combination of territorial embeddedness with more wide-ranging institutional relationships charts a route to an urban history that allows the city to speak as a global agent and artefact without dispensing with the role of states and local circumstance.
Rocket Observation of Sub‐Relativistic Electrons in the Quiet Dayside Auroral Ionosphere
Authors: Namekawa T. , Mitani T. , Asamura K. , Miyoshi Y. , Hosokawa K. , Ogawa Y. , Saito S. , Hori T. , Sugo S. , Kawashima O. , Kasahara S. , Nomura R. , Yagi N. , Fukizawa M. , Sakanoi T. , Saito Y. , Matsuoka A. , Shinohara I. , Fedorenko Y. , Nikitenko A. , Koehler C.
Published: June 2021

An energy spectrum of electrons from 180 to 550 keV precipitating into the dayside polar ionosphere was observed under a geomagnetically quiet condition (AE ≤ 100 nT, Kp = 1‐). The observation was carried out at 73–184 km altitudes by the HEP instrument onboard the RockSat‐XN sounding rocket that has been launched from Andøya, Norway. The observed energy spectrum of precipitating electrons follows a power law of −4.9 ± 0.4 and the electron flux does not vary much over the observation period (∼274.4 s). A nearby ground‐based VLF receiver observation at Lovozero, Russia shows the presence of whistler‐mode wave activities during the rocket observation. A few minutes before the RockSat‐XN observation, POES18/MEPED observed precipitating electrons, which also suggest whistler‐mode chorus wave activities at the location close to the rocket trajectory. A test‐particle simulation for wave‐particle interactions was carried out using the data of the Arase satellite as the initial condition which was located on the duskside. The result of the simulation shows that whistler‐mode waves can resonate with sub‐relativistic electrons at high latitudes. These results suggest that the precipitation observed by RockSat‐XN is likely to be caused by the wave‐particle interactions between whistler‐mode waves and sub‐relativistic electrons.
3D Space‐Time Adaptive Hybrid Simulations of Magnetosheath High‐Speed Jets
Authors: Omelchenko Y. A. , Chen L.‐J. , Ng J.
Published: June 2021

We study the generation and evolution of spatially localized dynamic plasma pressure enhancements in the magnetosheath (high‐speed jets) by carrying out three‐dimensional hybrid simulations of the Earth's dayside magnetosphere with a novel, space‐time adaptive code, HYPERS. High‐speed jets are shown to occur downstream of quasi‐parallel bow shocks under southward and northward quasi‐radial interplanetary magnetic field conditions. The physical properties and three‐dimensional morphology of simulation jets are found to be consistent with general statistical knowledge acquired from the satellite observations. We discuss a “magnetokinetic” mechanism for jet origin whereby the compression of solar wind plasma and its penetration into the magnetosheath is tied to the turbulence‐driven magnetic field perturbations. We compare three‐dimensional jets to dynamic pressure structures observed in two‐dimensional hybrid simulations and demonstrate the impact of large jets on the magnetopause and the cusp.
Global Pc5 Pulsations From the Polar Cap to the Equator: Wave Characteristics, Phase Variations, Disturbance Current System, and Signal Transmission
Authors: Huang Chao‐Song
Published: June 2021

We present observations of global Pc5 pulsations by ∼180 ground magnetometers during the recovery phase of an intense geomagnetic storm. Measurements of magnetic fields along four latitudinal magnetometer chains and one longitudinal magnetometer chain are used to determine the wave characteristics of Pc5 pulsations. Many new features of Pc5 pulsations are identified from a single event for the first time. The Pc5 pulsations occur simultaneously at all latitudes and longitudes/local times, and the period of the Pc5 pulsations is about 10 min and does not depend on latitude and longitude. The latitudinal distributions of the northward (H) component and magnetic pressure of Pc5 perturbations are derived. The phase of the H component reverses across 50–70° magnetic latitude (MLat) but is nearly the same at middle and low latitudes. The phase of the H component at low latitudes does not vary much with longitude/local time. The phase of the D component magnetic field reverses near the equator in the latitudinal direction and also reverses around dawn, noon, dusk, and midnights in the longitudinal direction. The distribution and evolution of global ionospheric equivalent disturbance currents during Pc5 pulsations are derived. A coupled magnetospheric‐ionospheric current system is proposed to explain the observed characteristics of global Pc5 pulsations. It is suggested that the variations of the phase of Pc5 pulsations with latitude and local time are determined by the global distribution of the coupled magnetospheric‐ionospheric current system but not caused by propagation delay of the signals.