bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bioinspired Mechanically Interlocking Structures
Authors: Zhu Ming , Zhang Feilong , Chen Xiaodong
Published: September 2020

Mechanically interlocking structures at various interfaces in nature have been observed for a long time, and their underlying interacting mechanisms have been deeply investigated. Through material and structural engineering, bioinspired interlocking structures were exploited to gain desirable functionalities with specific interfacial properties, aiming for practical applications in modern electronics. Herein, these bioinspired interlocks are summarized and classified into static and regulable categories according to their engineered functionalities. Static interlocks enhance the interfacial strength, while regulable interlocks further facilitate tunable and reversible attachment or stimuli–responsive ability. Various biomimetic interlocking structures with desirable features offered by static and regulable interlocks show great potential in the application scope of skin‐interfaced electronics, bioinspired adhesives, and stretchable electronic skins. Nevertheless, further exploration and thorough comprehension of mechanisms of natural interlocks are required to utilize each unique interlocking structure for a specific application scenario. With the advancement in materials engineering, functionality‐oriented interlocking structures will be developed toward practical applications in integrated healthcare electronics.
Liquid Biopsy: Application in Early Diagnosis and Monitoring of Cancer
Authors: Feng Junjie , Li Bo , Ying Jiaxu , Pan Weilun , Liu Chunchen , Luo Tingting , Lin Huixian , Zheng Lei
Published: September 2020

Liquid biopsy, a technique used to improve general tumor diagnostic methods, is gradually attracting increasing attention. By determining the temporal and spatial complexity of tumors, it represents a promising solution to diagnose and monitor cancer. It is noninvasive or minimally invasive, sensitive, and convenient and provides specific, accurate, and personal molecular information. Herein, the features of liquid biopsy and its applications in oncology, with a focus on diagnosing early cancers, monitoring prognosis, and minimal residual disease and monitoring treatment responses of cancer, are discussed. Furthermore, an overview of some of the challenges and prospects to translate liquid biopsy into clinically applicable tools for diagnosis and monitoring of cancer is presented.
Elucidating species richness in lichen fungi: The genusSticta(Ascomycota: Peltigeraceae) in Puerto Rico
Authors: Mercado‐Díaz Joel A. , Lücking Robert , Moncada Bibiana , Widhelm Todd J. , Lumbsch H. Thorsten
Published: September 2020

Traditional taxonomic studies provide only a limited understanding of species richness within a group. Their usefulness for assessing species diversity could also be limited as many lack sufficient sampling and/or fail to integrate different data types for assessing species boundaries. To explore the challenges and limitations of estimating species richness in lichens, we employed an integrative taxonomic approach to elucidate diversification patterns of the genusSticta(Peltigeraceae) in Puerto Rico. Specimens were collected throughout the island, and a six‐locus dataset was generated to infer phylogenetic relationships among Puerto RicanStictaand their continental counterparts. Phylogenetic analysis was combined with species delimitation methods and analysis of morpho‐anatomical characters to assess diversity patterns and clarify species‐level taxonomy. We found thatStictais represented by 16 species in Puerto Rico and that at least 11 (69%) of them are potentially endemic to the island. We describe eight of these in this work:S. borinquensissp. nov.,S. corymbosasp. nov.,S. densiphyllidiatasp. nov.,S. guilartensissp. nov.,S. harrisiisp. nov.,S. parvilobatasp. nov.,S. ripariasp. nov., andS. tainorumsp. nov. These species do not cluster in a monophyletic assemblage but are scattered over the broaderStictaphylogeny, indicating at least eight separate dispersal events. Putative endemic species were found to have close allies occurring in South America. Careful re‐examination of material revealed phenotypical characters that separate most species, suggesting low levels of cryptic diversity. We highlight that integrating molecular methods and other sources of information in species discovery along with comprehensive sampling efforts can greatly enhance our knowledge about diversity patterns in poorly studied groups and regions. Furthermore, species and ecosystems in the Caribbean are being threatened by substantial human‐driven changes (e.g., deforestation, climate change). Consequences of these impacts include reduction in already restricted habitats and potential extinction. We argue that studies analyzing species diversity within a phylogenetic framework could better inform conservation efforts aimed at addressing these challenges.
Cross‐cultural leadership adjustment: A strategic analysis of expatriate leadership at a British multinational enterprise
Authors: Rao‐Nicholson Rekha , Carr Chris , Smith Stuart
Published: September 2020

The current study examines the determinants of cross‐cultural leadership adjustment (CLA) and explores any potential linkage with performance. CLA adaptions are observed using a sample of leaders from two cultural regions, the United Kingdom and Germanic‐Europe, with expatriate experience at a British multinational enterprise (MNE) in seven different countries, including non‐European nations. Using data from a single company in multiple regions helps to isolate the firm, industry and regional effects. We adopted mixed method approach to address the question on what mode of adjustment leads to better performance and the antecedents of CLA which leads to better work‐performance. The results indicated that most expatriate leaders used the exploration mode of adjustment, under which both they and subordinates made substantial behavioral adaptations. This mode of adjustment addressing cultural differences had a positive impact on work‐performance along with replication mode. Additional antecedents here, such as differences relating to hierarchy, decision‐making and language/ communication, also impacted CLA.
Quercetin induces autophagy in myelodysplastic bone marrow including hematopoietic stem/progenitor compartment
Authors: Daw Suchismita , Law Sujata
Published: September 2020

Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) is regarded as a spectrum of bone marrow failure disorders that share hemato‐pathological state of cellular dysplasia and cytopenia. The modern treatment of cancers like chemotherapy and radiation therapy sometimes severely pounce on the basic hematopoietic stem/progenitor cellular (HSPC) compartment which gradually disclose the clinical symptoms of MDS. The present study involves flowcytometric protein expression analysis of insulin growth factor receptor (IGFR), PI3K‐Akt‐mTOR pathway, the autophagy related proteins (ATG's), the status of antioxidative molecules SOD2 and SDF1 and apoptosis profiling in ethyl‐nitroso‐urea induced myelodysplasia. The redox status that is, reactive oxygen species was estimated with dihydroetidium and the status of mitochondria and lysosomes were checked by Janus green B and neutral red staining respectively, pre and post quercetin treatment in MDS bone marrow. The results revealed the activated IGFR/PI3K/Akt axis in MDS bone marrow but unconventionally both p‐mTOR and autophagy (p‐ATG1, p‐AT6, ATG7, ATG12) was downregulated. Interestingly, post quercetin treatment an upregulation of basal autophagocytosis, reversal of oxidative damage and proper functionality of mitochondria and lysosome was recorded. Taken together, the study hinted that the PI3K‐Akt‐mTOR pathway does not rule over the process of autophagocytosis in HSPC's of MDS bone marrow and the isoflavanoid quercetin remarkably restored autophagocytosis and hematopoietic oxidative status toward normalcy during the progression of myelodysplasia.
Incorporating Picture Books: Is the SEL Curriculum Enough for Our Students?
Authors: Pysarenko Jessica
Published: September 2020

Voices From the Classroom essays share readers’ reflections on teaching experiences, advice for new teachers, and perspectives on current issues.
Communication, forensic science, and the law
Authors: Hackman Lucina
Published: September 2020

The communication of forensic science within the criminal justice process has been highlighted as an issue in a series of high profile reports dating back more than a decade. A forensic scientist has to be able to effectively communicate complex scientific ideas across multidisciplinary borders including the police, lawyers, and jurors, while concurrently being restrained by processes and procedures which exist within the criminal justice process. Communication research has begun to be undertaken to try and clarify and identify what causes some of the problems in communicating forensic science, to suggest how these might be addressed and to assess the efficacy of new approaches.

This article is categorized under:

Jurisprudence and Regulatory Oversight > Communication Across Science and Law

Jurisprudence and Regulatory Oversight > Interdisciplinary Collaboration

Jurisprudence and Regulatory Oversight > Expert Evidence and Narrative
Bayesian Disaggregated Forecasts: Internal Migration in Iceland
Authors: Zhang Junni L. , Bryant John
Published: September 2020

Local-level demographic forecasts are in high demand. Constructing local-level forecasts requires confronting the problems of random variation and sparse data. Bayesian methods offer promising solutions to both these problems. We illustrate using the example of inter-regional migration in Iceland.
Field Survey of Tsunami Heights and Runups Following the 22 December 2018 Anak Krakatau Volcano Tsunami, Indonesia
Authors: Heidarzadeh Mohammad , Putra Purna Sulastya , Nugroho Septriono Hari , Rashid Doud Ben Zubair
Published: September 2020

The 22 December 2018 Anak Karakatau tsunami in Indonesia was a rare event in that few instrumental records existed of tsunamis generated by volcanic sources before this event. The tsunami, which left a death toll of 437, is of global importance as it provides opportunities to develop knowledge on generation, propagation and coastal effects of volcanic tsunamis. Here, we report results of field surveys along the coast of the Sunda Strait, Indonesia to study tsunami wave heights and coastal damage. We surveyed 29 locations and measured ranges of tsunami runup from 0.9 to 5.2 m, tsunami heights from 1.4 to 6.3 m, flow depths from 0.2 m to 3.0 m and inundation distances from 18 to 212 m. The largest tsunami heights and concentration of damage and fatalities occurred on the western shore of Java from Tanjung Lesung to Sumur. The largest cluster of fatalities occurred at Tanjung Lesung, where more than 50 people died while attending an outdoor music being held at the shoreline. The tsunami runup and tsunami height in Tanjung Lesung were 4.0 and 2.9–3.8 m, respectively. We believe this tragedy could have been avoided if the event organizers were more aware of the hazard posed by the Anak Krakatau volcano, as it had been actively erupting for several months prior to the tsunami, and simply moved the concert stage 100 m inland. Many of the locations surveyed demonstrated a similar pattern where the majority of casualties and destruction occurred within 100 m of the coast; in several locations, lives were saved where buildings were located at least this distance inland. The significant damage and numerous deaths which occurred in Sumur, despite the moderate tsunami height of 2.3–2.5 m, can be attributed to the extremely low-lying coastal land there. Flow depth in Sumur was 0.9–2.0 m. During our field surveys, nearly one year after the event, we noted that some of the damaged buildings were being rebuilt in the same locations just 10–30 m from the shoreline. We question this practice since the new buildings could be at the same tsunami risk as those damaged in the 2018 event.
Nonlinear resultant theory of shells accounting for thermodiffusion
Authors: Eremeyev Victor A. , Pietraszkiewicz Wojciech
Published: September 2020

The complete nonlinear resultant 2D model of shell thermodiffusion is developed. All 2D balance laws and the entropy imbalance are formulated by direct through-the-thickness integration of respective 3D laws of continuum thermodiffusion. This leads to a more rich thermodynamic structure of our 2D model with several additional 2D fields not present in the 3D parent model. Constitutive equations of elastic thermodiffusive shells are discussed in more detail. They are formulated from restrictions imposed by the resultant 2D entropy imbalance according to Coleman–Noll procedure extended by a set of 2D constitutive equations based on heuristic assumptions.
High Arctic biocrusts: characterization of the exopolysaccharidic matrix
Authors: Mugnai Gianmarco , Rossi Federico , Mascalchi Cristina , Ventura Stefano , De Philippis Roberto
Published: September 2020

Biocrusts can be found in a wide array of habitats, where they provide important ecosystem services. These microbial associations are particularly important in High Arctic environments, where biocrust colonize the newly exposed barren soil after glacier retreat and significantly contribute to soil stabilization and nutrient cycling. Starting from incipient, structurally simple biolayers, they develop in complexity, increasing from the glacier terminus. Starting from a simple community structure, mainly constituted by cyanobacteria, heterotrophic bacteria and fungi immersed in a self-secreted extracellular polymeric matrix (cyanobacterial crusts), they later may recruit mosses and lichens (moss crusts and lichen crusts, respectively). The extracellular polymeric matrix protects the biocrust community from abiotic constraints, notably drought and freezing stress, from external physical harming factors, and from predation. The physicochemical characteristics of the extracellular matrix are related to several of its properties, such as its soil-stabilizing effect and water retention. We analysed the chemical (monosaccharidic composition) and macromolecular (molecular weight distribution) properties of the extracellular polymeric matrix of biocrusts with different morphologies collected in northwestern Spitsbergen, Norway. The uronic acid content and molecular weight (MW) distribution of the extracellular polysaccharidic matrices (EPMs) appeared in accordance with the developmental stages of the biocrusts. The MW distribution also showed significant differences between the samples, possibly reflecting differences in microbial enzymatic activities leading to the degradation of high-MW polymers into smaller compounds. The MW distribution profiles presented some important differences, reflecting differences in environmental conditions and, probably, the seasonal variance in microbial community composition that is known to characterize the environment examined in the present study.
Mahaim pathway potential revealed by high-resolution three-dimensional mapping
Authors: Steinfurt Johannes , Bode Christoph , Faber Thomas S.
Published: September 2020

Mapping and ablation of atriofascicular fibers can be highly challenging due to the complex and dynamic anatomy of the tricuspid valve annulus. This case highlights the utility of a multi-electrode catheter three-dimensional mapping approach to localize the Mahaim pathway along the tricuspid annulus in order to guide catheter ablation.
A 12-month follow-up of primary and secondary root canal treatment in teeth obturated with a hydraulic sealer
Authors: Bardini Giulia , Casula Laura , Ambu Emanuele , Musu Davide , Mercadè Montse , Cotti Elisabetta
Published: September 2020

Objectives

This randomized, controlled, pilot study assessed the outcome of non-surgical primary/secondary root canal treatments either with a novel bioactive sealer and the single-cone technique or with gutta-percha, zinc oxide-eugenol sealer (ZOE), and warm vertical compaction.

Materials and methods

Sixty-nine patients were randomly divided into two groups that were treated using the single-cone technique with BioRootTMRCS (Septodont) (BIO group) or warm vertical compaction with gutta-percha and ZOE sealer (PCS group). Two subsamples (BIOAP and PCSAP) comprised the cases with apical periodontitis. Treatment was undertaken by four residents using a standardized instrumentation and disinfection protocol. The periapical index (PAI) was recorded, and clinical and radiographic follow-up performed at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. Treatment success was assessed according to “periapical healing” and “tooth survival”. The test for the equality of proportions,ttests for the equality of means, and non-parametric K-sample tests for the equality of medians were applied when appropriate.

Results

The survival rate was similar in the BIO and PCS (p= 0.4074) and the BIOAP and PCSAP groups (p= 0.9114). The success rate was higher in the BIO groups, but not statistically significant (p= 0.0735). In both BIOAP and PCSAP groups, a progressive decrease in the PAI was observed.

Conclusion

At 12 months, both techniques showed reliable results. Further studies and longer follow-ups are needed.

Clinical relevance

This study documents the feasibility of using a bioactive sealer in conjunction with the single-cone technique to obturate the root canal and obtaining a predictable outcome.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.govIdentifie: NCT04249206
Method for a cloud based remaining-service-life-prediction for vehicle-gearboxes based on big-data-analysis and machine learning
Authors: Vietze Daniel , Hein Michael , Stahl Karsten
Published: September 2020

Most vehicle-gearboxes operating today are designed for a limited service-life. On the one hand, this creates significant potential for decreasing cost and mass as well as reduction of the carbon-footprint. On the other hand, this causes a rising risk of failure with increasing operating time of the machine. Especially if a failure can result in a high economic loss, this fact creates a conflict of goals. On the one hand, the machine should only be maintained or replaced when necessary and, on the other hand, the probability of a failure increases with longer operating times. Therefore, a method is desirable, making it possible to predict the remaining service-life and state of health with as little effort as possible.

Centerpiece of gearboxes are the gears. A failure of these components usually causes the whole gearbox to fail. The fatigue life analysis deals with the dimensioning of gears according to the expected loads and the required service-life. Unfortunately, there is very little possibility to validate the technical design during operation, today. Hence, the goal of this paper is to present a method, enabling the prediction of the remaining-service-life and state-of-health of gears during operation. Within this method big-data and machine-learning approaches are used. The method is designed in a way, enabling an easy transfer to other machine elements and kinds of machinery.
Entwicklung von galvanisch gekoppelten Gleitlagern zur Reduzierung von Reibung und Verschleiß
Authors: Amann T. , Chen W. , Baur M. , Kailer A. , Rühe J.
Published: September 2020

Durch Reibung und Verschleiß werden weltweit Gesamtkosten von 250 Mrd. €/Jahr verursacht und 8120 MtCO2-Emissionen freigesetzt. Die aktuellen Herausforderungen bestehen darin, die Vorteile ultraniedriger Reibung, der verschleißlosen Gleit- und Reibungskontrolle sowie der wasserbasierten Schmierung hinsichtlich Energie- und Ressourceneffizienz für technische Anwendungen zu nutzen. An dieser Problematik, der Steigerung der Energieeffizienz und Nachhaltigkeit, setzt diese Arbeit an. Vorarbeiten haben gezeigt, dass mit speziellen mesogenen Flüssigkeiten Superlubrizität (µ < 0,005) realisiert werden kann. In dieser Arbeit sollen neben der anwendungsnahen Prüfung dieser mesogenen Fluide auch die Eigenschaften von Wasser als Schmierstoff durch Additivierung mit komplexen Fluiden (ionischen Flüssigkeiten, lyotroper Flüssigkristall) und Einbringung eines elektrochemischen Schutzes durch galvanische Kopplung verbessert werden. Durch die Zugabe der komplexen Fluide in Wasser wurden Reibung- und Verschleiß in Modellreibversuchen verbessert. Gleitlagerversuche mit dem mesogenen Schmierstoff zeigen bei galvanisch induziertem Oberflächenpotenzial, durch Kopplung des Stahllagers mit Kupfer, eine Reibwertreduzierung um 60 % und eine Verschleißreduktion um 40 % im Vergleich zu einem Referenzöl.
Impacts of invasive trees on alpha and beta diversity of temperate forest understories
Authors: Dyderski Marcin K. , Jagodziński Andrzej M.
Published: September 2020

Despite good recognition of distributions and spread mechanisms of the three most invasive trees in Europe (Prunus serotina,Quercus rubraandRobinia pseudoacacia), their impacts on forest biodiversity are unevenly recognized. Most studies cover only taxonomic alpha diversity, and only a single study included functional and phylogenetic diversity. Using a set of 186 study plots in western Poland we assessed the impacts of these invasive tree species on the alpha and beta taxonomic, functional and phylogenetic diversity of understory vascular plants. Alpha diversity was higher inR. pseudoacaciaforests and lower inQ. rubraforests compared to mature native forests. Compared to non-invaded plantations and forests, alpha diversity was higher inP. sylvestrisplantations invaded byP. serotina, but lower in invaded nutrient-poorP. sylvestrisforests. Alien species richness was higher and beta diversity was lower in forests invaded byP. serotinaorR. pseudoacaciathan in non-invaded forests. In contrast, beta diversity was higher inQ. rubraforests than in native forests. We proved that invaded forests differed from non-invaded forests in species composition, but not always with decreased alpha and beta diversity. Impacts of particular invasive species also depended on the reference ecosystem properties (here mature native forests, which did not always have the highest biodiversity), which is a source of inconsistency in previous studies, usually referring to single native ecosystem types.
Material characterization and Streptococcus oralis adhesion on Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and titanium surfaces used in implantology
Authors: D’Ercole Simonetta , Cellini Luigina , Pilato Serena , Di Lodovico Silvia , Iezzi Giovanna , Piattelli Adriano , Petrini Morena
Published: September 2020

The aim of this study was to evaluate the interaction between Streptococcus oralis and Polyetheretherketone (PEEK), a novel material recently introduced in implantology. The topographical characterization and the Streptococcus oralis adhesion on this material were compared with other titanium surfaces, currently used for the production of dental implants: machined and double etched (DAE). The superficial micro-roughness of the PEEK discs was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and, the Energy Dispersive Spectrometer (EDS) analyzed their chemical composition. Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) was used to characterize the micro-topography and the sessile method to evaluate the wettability of the samples. Microbiological analysis measured the colony forming units (CFUs), the biomass (OD570 detection) and the cell viability after 24 and 48 h after Streptococcus oralis cultivation on the different discs, that were previously incubated with saliva. Results showed that PEEK was characterized by a micro-roughness that was similar to machined titanium but at nano-level the nano-roughness was significantly higher in respect to the other samples. The EDS showed that PEEK superficial composition was characterized mainly by Carbonium and Oxygen. The hydrophilicity and wetting properties of PEEK were similar to machined titanium; on the contrary, double etched discs (DAE) samples were characterized by significantly higher levels (p < 0.05). PEEK was characterized by significant lower CFUs, biomass and viable cells in respect to the titanium surfaces. No differences were found between machined and DAE. The anti-adhesive and antibacterial properties showed by PEEK at 24 and 48 h against a pioneer such as S. oralis, could have an important role in the prevention of all pathologies connected with biofilm formation, like peri-implantitis in dentistry or prosthetic failures in orthopedics.
Exploratory study of introducing HPC to non-ICT researchers: institutional strategy is possibly needed for widespread adaption
Authors: Ferdinandy Bence , Guerrero-Higueras Ángel Manuel , Verderber Éva , Rodríguez-Lera Francisco Javier , Miklósi Ádám
Published: September 2020

Machine learning algorithms are becoming more and more useful in many fields of science, including many areas where computational methods are rarely used. High-performance Computing (HPC) is the most powerful solution to get the best results using these algorithms. HPC requires various skills to use. Acquiring this knowledge might be intimidating and take a long time for a researcher with small or no background in information and communications technologies (ICTs), even if the benefits of such knowledge is evident for the researcher. In this work, we aim to assess how a specific method of introducing HPC to such researchers enables them to start using HPC. We gave talks to two groups of non-ICT researchers that introduced basic concepts focusing on the necessary practical steps needed to use HPC on a specific cluster. We also offered hands-on trainings for one of the groups which aimed to guide participants through the first steps of using HPC. Participants filled out questionnaires partly based on Kirkpatrick’s training evaluation model before and after the talk, and after the hands-on training. We found that the talk increased participants’ self-reported likelihood of using HPC in their future research, but this was not significant for the group where participation was voluntary. On the contrary, very few researchers participated in the hands-on training, and for these participants neither the talk, nor the hands-on training changed their self-reported likelihood of using HPC in their future research. We argue that our findings show that academia and researchers would benefit from an environment that not only expects researchers to train themselves, but provides structural support for acquiring new skills.
Unravelling the effect of data augmentation transformations in polyp segmentation
Authors: Sánchez-Peralta Luisa F. , Picón Artzai , Sánchez-Margallo Francisco M. , Pagador J. Blas
Published: September 2020

Purpose

Data augmentation is a common technique to overcome the lack of large annotated databases, a usual situation when applying deep learning to medical imaging problems. Nevertheless, there is no consensus on which transformations to apply for a particular field. This work aims at identifying the effect of different transformations on polyp segmentation using deep learning.

Methods

A set of transformations and ranges have been selected, considering image-based (width and height shift, rotation, shear, zooming, horizontal and vertical flip and elastic deformation), pixel-based (changes in brightness and contrast) and application-based (specular lights and blurry frames) transformations. A model has been trained under the same conditions without data augmentation transformations (baseline) and for each of the transformation and ranges, using CVC-EndoSceneStill and Kvasir-SEG, independently. Statistical analysis is performed to compare the baseline performance against results of each range of each transformation on the same test set for each dataset.

Results

This basic method identifies the most adequate transformations for each dataset. For CVC-EndoSceneStill, changes in brightness and contrast significantly improve the model performance. On the contrary, Kvasir-SEG benefits to a greater extent from the image-based transformations, especially rotation and shear. Augmentation with synthetic specular lights also improves the performance.

Conclusion

Despite being infrequently used, pixel-based transformations show a great potential to improve polyp segmentation in CVC-EndoSceneStill. On the other hand, image-based transformations are more suitable for Kvasir-SEG. Problem-based transformations behave similarly in both datasets. Polyp area, brightness and contrast of the dataset have an influence on these differences.
Near Net Shape Casting: Is It Possible to Cast Too Thin?
Authors: Slater Carl , Davis Claire
Published: September 2020

With increased efforts across the steel industry to produce steel in more economical ways, interest in near net shape casting has increased. Although much has been reported on the production of exotic alloys via these methods, to make the investment in new casting equipment, capability to produce current high value steels by these methods would derisk the capital expenditure. This study assesses the production of a dual phase steel (DP800) by belt casting and compared to that of conventional continuous casting. Although a drop in yield and tensile strength was seen in the belt cast-produced material, the increased elongation allowed for a comparable/improved UTS × elongation factor. A combination of in situ dendrite measurements, thermal modeling, and lab-scale belt casting has allowed insight into the relationship between cast thickness and final band spacing. The inherent lack of deformation of near net shape casting results in coarser band spacing and is not accounted for by the refinement of the secondary arm spacing caused by the faster solidification rates. This limits the strength achievable for a given martensite volume fraction. This has been predicted across the full range of casting thicknesses (1 to 230 mm) and good agreement has been shown with experimental results.
Relaxation versus exercise for improved quality of life in lymphoma survivors—a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Hathiramani Suchita , Pettengell R. , Moir H. , Younis A.
Published: September 2020

Purpose

Lymphoma survivors experience persisting needs as a consequence of disease and treatment, which have an impact on quality of life (QoL). There is evidence supporting the use of relaxation and exercise to improve QoL, but there is no agreement on which is more beneficial. This study aims to compare a relaxation intervention versus an exercise intervention to determine which has a greater impact on QoL post-chemotherapy.

Methods

Eligible participants (n = 46) were randomised to a relaxation or exercise intervention for 12 weeks. QoL was assessed at baseline, 6 weeks and post-intervention using the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer QoL Questionnaire Core 30 (EORTC QLQ-C30) questionnaire, which is a valid and reliable tool. The summary score and all EORTC domains were assessed.

Results

There was a significant difference in QoL post-intervention between groups (p = 0.029) while adjusting for baseline QoL, with the exercise group demonstrating a larger improvement. Within-group QoL significantly improved pre- to post-intervention in both the relaxation (p = 0.036) and exercise (p = 0.004) groups.

Conclusions

A self-management intervention of either exercise or relaxation can help significantly improve QoL in lymphoma survivors following chemotherapy. While exercise is preferred, a relaxation intervention would also have a beneficial impact on QoL.

Implications for Cancer Survivors

Lymphoma survivors should be routinely screened and those with decreased QoL referred for an exercise programme, or relaxation for survivors who are unable to exercise or choose not to. A home-based programme can have a significant positive impact on QoL and is a feasible and effective method in the current climate.

Trial registration number

Clinical Trials ID NCT02272751
Fear of cancer recurrence among young adult cancer survivors—exploring long-term contributing factors in a large, population-based cohort
Authors: Vandraas Kathrine F. , Reinertsen Kristin V. , Kiserud Cecilie E. , Lie Hanne C.
Published: September 2020

Purpose

Fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) may be debilitating, yet knowledge of FCR among the growing population of long-term young adult cancer survivors (YACS) is scarce. We explored risk of FCR and associated factors in a nation-wide, population-based cohort of YACS.

Methods

All 5-year survivors diagnosed at the ages of 19–39 years with breast cancer (BC), malignant melanoma (MM), colorectal cancer (CRC), leukemia (LEU), or non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) between 1985 and 2009 in Norway were identified by the Cancer Registry of Norway and completed the cross-sectional comprehensive NOR-CAYACS health survey. Univariate and multivariate linear regression modeling was performed.

Results

In total, 936 survivors were included, with an average of 16 years since diagnoses. BC was the most prevalent cancer form (38.4%), followed by MM (24.7%), NHL (15.6%), CRC (11.8%), and LEU (9.6%). Survivors worried most about getting another cancer (74%), and (20%) reported quite a bit or a lot of FCR. BC and MM survivors had the highest FCR scores. Post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) had the strongest association with FCR (Std B 0.21, p < 0.01), above demographic and clinical variables.

Conclusions

FCR is prevalent even among long-term YACS, including survivors of MM with favorable prognoses.

Implications for Cancer Survivors

Attention to ongoing risks of PTSS and FCR in this growing survivor population is warranted to optimize future survivorship care.
Effects of Wind-Wave Misalignment on a Wind Turbine Blade Mating Process: Impact Velocities, Blade Root Damages and Structural SafetyAssessment
Authors: Verma Amrit Shankar , Jiang Zhiyu , Ren Zhengru , Gao Zhen , Vedvik Nils Petter
Published: September 2020

Most wind turbine blades are assembled piece-by-piece onto the hub of a monopile-type offshore wind turbine using jack-up crane vessels. Despite the stable foundation of the lifting cranes, the mating process exhibits substantial relative responses amidst blade root and hub. These relative motions are combined effects of wave-induced monopile motions and wind-induced blade root motions, which can cause impact loads at the blade root’s guide pin in the course of alignment procedure. Environmental parameters including the wind-wave misalignments play an important role for the safety of the installation tasks and govern the impact scenarios. The present study investigates the effects of wind-wave misalignments on the blade root mating process on a monopile-type offshore wind turbine. The dynamic responses including the impact velocities between root and hub in selected wind-wave misalignment conditions are investigated using multibody simulations. Furthermore, based on a finite element study, different impact-induced failure modes at the blade root for sideways and head-on impact scenarios, developed due to wind-wave misalignment conditions, are investigated. Finally, based on extreme value analyses of critical responses, safe domain for the mating task under different wind-wave misalignments is compared. The results show that although misaligned wind-wave conditions develop substantial relative motions between root and hub, aligned wind-wave conditions induce largest impact velocities and develop critical failure modes at a relatively low threshold velocity of impact.
Sustainability Reporting and Firms’ Economic Performance: Evidence from Asia and Africa
Authors: Girón Alicia , Kazemikhasragh Amirreza , Cicchiello Antonella Francesca , Panetti Eva
Published: September 2020

Given the increasing concern for the global environmental issues and the relating need for preservation of the ecosystem, sustainability reporting has become more and more important, to both developed and developing economies, sparking the interest of the literature. This study primarily aims to investigate the factors that influence the adoption of new sustainability reporting practices and external assurance. Also, this paper examines the relationship between the reporting activity and firms’ economic performance. The paper combines data from the Global Reporting Initiative’s (GRI) Sustainability Disclosure Database and the Orbis database, from Bureau van Dijk. More specifically, the study uses two logit models and one regression model based on a sample of 366 large Asian and African companies which have addressed the SDGs in their sustainability reports published in 2017. The results reveal that operating in the manufacturing sector and having a higher percentage of women directors in the company’s management structure are positively related to the adoption of sustainability reporting and external assurance. Also, operating in the manufacturing sector leads to better firms’ economic performance. Contrarily from previous studies, the age of the company’s board of directors does not have influences on the use of sustainability reporting. This research contributes to the sustainability issues in the context of emerging markets by explaining the driving factors behind it and its linkage with firms’ performance.
Gut microbes in cardiovascular diseases and their potential therapeutic applications
Authors: Jin Ling , Shi Xiaoming , Yang Jing , Zhao Yangyu , Xue Lixiang , Xu Li , Cai Jun
Published: September 2020

Microbial ecosystem comprises a complex community in which bacteria interact with each other. The potential roles of the intestinal microbiome play in human health have gained considerable attention. The imbalance of gut microbial community has been looked to multiple chronic diseases. Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are leading causes of morbidity worldwide and are influenced by genetic and environmental factors. Recent advances have provided scientific evidence that CVD may also be attributed to gut microbiome. In this review, we highlight the complex interplay between microbes, their metabolites, and the potential influence on the generation and development of CVDs. The therapeutic potential of using intestinal microbiomes to treat CVD is also discussed. It is quite possible that gut microbes may be used for clinical treatments of CVD in the near future.
German principals’ attitude towards the form of religious education at state schools
Authors: Riegel Ulrich , Zimmermann Mirjam , Hohenschue Oliver
Published: September 2020

Despite the strong status of denominational religious education (RE) in the German constitution this organizational form of RE finds itself increasingly under pressure at state schools. Reasons for this development are among others the shrinking percentage of baptized people in Germany, problems in organising this form of RE at school and the discussion on the role of religion in civil society. Concerning the future of RE four options can be determined that need to be discussed: denominational RE, cooperative RE, integrative RE and Moral Education instead of RE. This article presents a survey of 228 school principals who have introduced a cooperative RE at their school to find out which form of RE they prefer for which reasons. The results show that they prefer integrative RE (M = 4.07) over cooperative RE (M = 4.00). Moral Education does not get much support (M = 2.57), but still more than denominational RE (M = 2.27). Regression analysis gives evidence that issues like organizational aspects (for example size of the school) and educational goals (for example views on “taking position in RE”) predict the principals’ preferences. These results provide first impressions of an important group of people within the educational system who have hardly been considered in the discussion about how religion should be taught in the future.
Where Tracking Loses Traction
Authors: Barrington Mitchell
Published: September 2020

Tracking theories see knowledge as a relation between a subject's belief and the truth, where the former is responsive to the latter. This relationship involves causation in virtue of a sensitivity condition, which is constrained by an adherence condition. The result is what I call a stable causal relationship between a fact and a subject's belief in that fact. I argue that when we apprehend the precise role of causation in the theory, previously obscured problems pour out. This paper presents 13 distinct and original counterexamples to Nozick's tracking theory – many of which also constitute problems for more recent tracking theories. I begin by discussing how tracking relates to causation: Nozick invokes causation through conditions similar to those of Lewisian causal dependence. As a result, when causal dependence is not necessary for causation, Nozick fails to identify knowledge. I then address the inability of causation to capture epistemically important concepts, such as justification and truth. I conclude by discussing the underlying asymmetries between causation and knowledge that undermine any attempt to reduce knowledge to a purely metaphysical relation.
Business History and the Problem of Action
Authors: RAFF DANIEL M. G.
Published: September 2020

The problem of action is the problem of both identifying and explaining it. The two aspects are not as distinct as this formulation might suggest, and the present paper focuses on the first, bringing in only as much of the second as is absolutely necessary. (A companion paper focuses on the second in a similar way.) Because business history is for all practical purposes a history of organizations and because action in and by organizations generally implicates those organizations’ routines, addressing the problem of action as business historians encounter it requires discussion of relatively recent literature on the relationship between structure and agency. That discussion raises questions about the meaning of agency in human conduct and in historical analysis. After exposition of some helpful ideas drawn from the sociology literature, this paper draws out implications for writing the business history of firms and industries.
All-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) reduces proliferative capacity and Brachyury levels in the chordoma cell line UCH-1
Authors: Robinson Helena , McFarlane Ramsay J. , Wakeman Jane A.
Published: September 2020

Chordoma is a rare bone cancer for which there are no approved drugs. Surgery is the principle treatment but complete resection can be challenging due to the location of the tumours in the spine and therefore finding an effective drug treatment is a pressing unmet clinical need. A major recent study identified the transcription factor Brachyury as the primary vulnerability and drug target in chordoma. Previously, all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) has been shown to negatively influence expression of the Brachyury gene, TBXT. Here we extend this finding and demonstrate that ATRA lowers Brachyury protein levels in chordoma cells and reduces proliferation of the chordoma cell line U-CH1 as well as causing loss of distinctive chordoma cell morphology. ATRA is available as a generic drug and is the first line treatment for acute promyelocytic leukaemia (APL). This study implies ATRA could have therapeutic value if repurposed for chordoma.
Helminth infection-induced carcinogenesis: spectrometric insights from the liver flukes, Opisthorchis and Fasciola
Authors: Gouveia Maria João , Pakharukova Maria Y. , Rinaldi Gabriel , Mordvinov Viatcheslav A. , Brindley Paul J. , Gärtner Fátima , Vale Nuno
Published: September 2020

Earlier reports revealed oxysterol metabolites of Opisthorchis spp. liver fluke origin conjugated with DNA bases, suggesting that the generation of these DNA-adducts may underlie the mutagenicity and carcinogenicity of the infection with these food-borne pathogens. Here, we employed liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry to investigate, compare and contrast spectrograms of soluble extracts from Fasciola hepatica adult worms from bile ducts of cattle with those from O. viverrini and O.felineus from experimentally infected hamsters. F. hepatica and Opisthorchis spp. shared common compounds including oxysterol-like metabolites, bile acids and DNA-adducts, but the spectrometric profiles of F. hepatica included far fewer compounds than Opisthorchis species. These findings support the postulate that parasitic oxysterol-like metabolites could be related to carcinogenesis associated to infection and they point to a molecular basis for the differences among major groups of liver flukes concerning infection-induced malignancy.
Early Miocene marine ostracodes from southwestern India: implications for their biogeography and the closure of the Tethyan Seaway
Authors: Yasuhara Moriaki , Hong Yuanyuan , Tian Skye Yunshu , Chong Wing Ki , Chu Rachel Wai Ching , Okahashi Hisayo , Reuter Markus , Piller Werner E. , Harzhauser Mathias
Published: September 2020

Twenty-six genera and 34 species of early Miocene Indian shallow-marine ostracodes were examined for taxonomy and paleobiogeography. A new genusParactinocythereisand new speciesCosta ponticulocarinatawere described. Early Miocene Indian ostracode fauna shows strong affinity to Eocene–Miocene Eastern and Western Tethyan ostracode faunas and Miocene–Recent Indo-Pacific ostracode fauna, supporting the Hopping Hotspot Hypothesis that the Tethyan biodiversity hotspot has shifted eastward through Arabia to Indo-Australian Archipelago (IAA) together with concomitant biogeographic shifts of the Tethyan elements. The result also indicated an inverse westward distributional shift in a genus. It is important to note that Paleogene and Miocene shallow marine ostracodes from the IAA region remain poorly investigated, and more fossil ostracode data are needed to better test the Hopping Hotspot Hypothesis.

UUID:http://zoobank.org/d1e29249-8c5b-49bf-a47a-5f18e1fc4426
Olfactory hallucinations in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: El Haj Mohamad , Larøi Frank
Published: September 2020

We assessed the frequency, duration, and degree of unpleasantness of olfactory hallucinations in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Informants of 31 AD patients were invited to rate the frequency, duration, and degree of unpleasantness of olfactory, auditory, and visual hallucinations. Analysis demonstrated little occurrence of olfactory hallucinations compared with auditory or visual hallucinations. Results also demonstrated that olfactory hallucinations span from a few seconds to one minute, a duration that was similar to that of auditory and visual hallucinations. Olfactory hallucinations were rated as unpleasant compared with auditory or visual hallucinations. Finally, olfactory hallucinations were significantly correlated with depression. Our findings demonstrate little occurrence of olfactory hallucinations but that when they occur, they are experienced as relatively unpleasant in AD patients. Our findings also demonstrate a relationship between olfactory hallucinations and psychiatric characteristics (i.e., depression) in AD.
ON THE DEPTH OF SYMBOLIC POWERS OF EDGE IDEALS OF GRAPHS
Authors: FAKHARI S. A. S.
Published: September 2020

Assume that G is a graph with edge ideal
$I(G)$
and star packing number
$\alpha _2(G)$
. We denote the sth symbolic power of
$I(G)$
by
$I(G)^{(s)}$
. It is shown that the inequality
$ \operatorname {\mathrm {depth}} S/(I(G)^{(s)})\geq \alpha _2(G)-s+1$
is true for every chordal graph G and every integer
$s\geq 1$
. Moreover, it is proved that for any graph G, we have
$ \operatorname {\mathrm {depth}} S/(I(G)^{(2)})\geq \alpha _2(G)-1$
.