bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spirulina supplementation improves oxygen uptake in arm cycling exercise
Authors: Gurney Tom , Spendiff Owen
Published: September 2020

Purpose

Spirulina has previously been reported to improve high-intensity exercise performance and hemoglobin. However, spirulina’s effect on arm cycling exercise has yet to be investigated. The purpose of this study was to investigate the responses of spirulina supplementation on hemoglobin and on oxygen uptake, RER and HR during seated arm cycling exercise.

Methods

In a double-blinded randomized crossover design, eleven males untrained in arm cycling ingested 6 g/day of spirulina or placebo for seven days. Seated on the Arm Crank Ergometer, each participant performed a baseline V̇O2max test, and then after supplementation, 2 × 30-min submaximal exercise bouts corresponding to 55% of their V̇O2max, followed by an incremental test to fatigue. A seven-day wash-out period was required between conditions. Oxygen uptake, RER and HR were measured continuously during exercise and hemoglobin measured prior to exercise after both conditions.

Results

Spirulina significantly (p < 0.05) increased Hb in comparison to Placebo (144.1 g/l ± 10.5 Vs 154.5 g/l ± 6.9). After spirulina supplementation, during the 30-min exercise bouts, oxygen uptake and HR were significantly lower (2170 ml/min ± 173 Vs 2311 ml/min ± 189 and 154 bpm ± 14 Vs 149 bpm ± 17), RER was not significantly different. In comparison to placebo, Spirulina significantly increased oxygen uptake at time of fatigue (34.10 ml/min/kg ± 6.03 Vs 37.37 ml/min/kg ± 5.98). Time taken to fatigue was not different.

Conclusion

Spirulina supplementation significantly reduces oxygen uptake and HR during arm cycling submaximal exercise, allowing for an increased oxygen uptake during an incremental test to fatigue.
Mechanical aspects of the semicircular ducts in the vestibular system
Authors: Muller Mees
Published: September 2020

The semicircular ducts (SCDs) of the vestibular system play an instrumental role in equilibration and rotation perception of vertebrates. The present paper is a review of quantitative approaches and shows how SCDs function. It consists of three parts. First, the biophysical mechanisms of an SCD system composed of three mutually connected ducts, allowing endolymph to flow from one duct into another one, are analysed. The flow is quantified by solving the continuity equations in conjunction with the equations of motion of the SCD hydrodynamics. This leads to mathematical expressions that are suitable for further analytical and numerical analysis. Second, analytical solutions are derived through four simplifying steps while keeping the essentials of the coupled system intact. Some examples of flow distributions for different rotations are given. Third, the focus is on the transducer function of the SCDs. The complex structure of the mechano-electrical transduction apparatus inside the ampullae is described, and the consequences for sensitivity and frequency response are evaluated. Furthermore, both the contributions of the different terms of the equations of motion and the influence of Brownian motion are analysed. Finally, size limitations, allometry and evolutionary aspects are taken into account.
Approximation of two-variable functions using high-order Takagi–Sugeno fuzzy systems, sparse regressions, and metaheuristic optimization
Authors: Wiktorowicz Krzysztof , Krzeszowski Tomasz
Published: September 2020

This paper proposes a new hybrid method for training high-order Takagi–Sugeno fuzzy systems using sparse regressions and metaheuristic optimization. The fuzzy system is considered with Gaussian fuzzy sets in the antecedents and high-order polynomials in the consequents of fuzzy rules. The fuzzy sets can be chosen manually or determined by a metaheuristic optimization method (particle swarm optimization, genetic algorithm or simulated annealing), while the polynomials are obtained using ordinary least squares, ridge regression or sparse regressions (forward selection, least angle regression, least absolute shrinkage and selection operator, and elastic net regression). A quality criterion is proposed that expresses a compromise between the prediction ability of the fuzzy model and its sparsity. The conducted experiments showed that: (a) the use of sparse regressions and/or metaheuristic optimization can reduce the validation error compared with the reference method, and (b) the use of sparse regressions may simplify the fuzzy model by zeroing some of the coefficients.
A systematic review of interventions to mitigate radiotherapy-induced oral mucositis in head and neck cancer patients
Authors: Davy Catrina , Heathcote Sharron
Published: September 2020

Background

Oral mucositis is a debilitating consequence of radiotherapy in patients with head and neck cancers. Radiation-induced oral mucositis (RIOM) can cause pain and weight loss, reduce quality of life and affect treatment outcomes.

Methods

A systematic review was undertaken to identify and examine the efficacy of low-cost interventions to mitigate RIOM and to develop clinical guidelines based on the evidence.

Results

The author identified three interventions: benzydamine hydrochloride mouth rinse (BHM), honey and oral glutamine (OG). The search identified twenty-four studies in total. Four studies examined BHM; all findings were favourable, although only one had moderate methodological quality, and the rest were low. The product was poorly tolerated by some participants in one study. Twelve studies examined honey. Eleven of these had favourable results; two studies had moderate methodological quality, and the rest were low. Eight studies examined OG. Six of these had favourable results; two studies had moderate methodological quality, and the rest were low.

Conclusion

The author cannot recommend BHM to mitigate RIOM due to the overall low quality of the studies and poor tolerance to the product. The author cannot recommend honey to mitigate RIOM due to weak evidence supporting the intervention. The author can recommend OG to mitigate RIOM. There is a need for high-quality studies with a consensus of the methodology to reduce heterogeneity and examination of the cost-effectiveness of the interventions.
Can Na18F PET/CT bone scans help when deciding if early intervention is needed in patients being treated with a TSF attached to the tibia: insights from 41 patients
Authors: Lundblad Henrik , Karlsson-Thur Charlotte , Maguire Gerald Q. , Noz Marilyn E. , Zeleznik Michael P. , Weidenhielm Lars
Published: September 2020

Purpose

To demonstrate the usefulness of positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) bone scans for gaining insight into healing bone status earlier than CT or X-ray alone.

Methods

Forty-one prospective patients being treated with a Taylor Spatial Frame were recruited. We registered data obtained from successive static CT scans for each patient, to align the broken bone. Radionuclide uptake was calculated over a spherical volume of interest (VOI). For all voxels in the VOI, histograms and cumulative distribution functions of the CT and PET data were used to assess the type and progress of new bone growth and radionuclide uptake. The radionuclide uptake difference per day between the PET/CT scans was displayed in a scatter plot. Superimposing CT and PET slice data and observing the spatiotemporal uptake of 18F− in the region of healing bone by a time-sequenced movie allowed qualitative evaluation.

Results

Numerical evaluation, particularly the shape and distribution of Hounsfield Units and radionuclide uptake in the graphs, combined with visual evaluation and the movies enabled the identification of six patients needing intervention as well as those not requiring intervention. Every revised patient proceeded to a successful treatment conclusion.

Conclusion

Numerical and visual evaluation based on all the voxels in the VOI may aid the orthopedic surgeon to assess a patient’s progression to recovery. By identifying slow or insufficient progress at an early stage and observing the uptake of 18F− in specific regions of bone, it might be possible to shorten the recovery time and avoid unnecessary late complications.
The endoscope-assisted supraorbital “keyhole” approach for anterior skull base meningiomas: an updated meta-analysis
Authors: Khan Danyal Z. , Muskens Ivo S. , Mekary Rania A. , Zamanipoor Najafabadi Amir H. , Helmy Adel E. , Reisch Robert , Broekman Marike L. D. , Marcus Hani J.
Published: September 2020

Introduction

The gold-standard treatment for symptomatic anterior skull base meningiomas is surgical resection. The endoscope-assisted supraorbital “keyhole” approach (eSKA) is a promising technique for surgical resection of olfactory groove (OGM) and tuberculum sellae meningioma (TSM) but has yet to be compared with the microscopic transcranial (mTCA) and the expanded endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA) in the context of existing literature.

Methods

An updated study-level meta-analysis on surgical outcomes and complications of OGM and TSM operated with the eSKA, mTCA, and EEA was conducted using random-effect models.

Results

A total of 2285 articles were screened, yielding 96 studies (2191 TSM and 1510 OGM patients). In terms of effectiveness, gross total resection incidence was highest in mTCA (89.6% TSM, 91.1% OGM), followed by eSKA (85.2% TSM, 84.9% OGM) and EEA (83.9% TSM, 82.8% OGM). Additionally, the EEA group had the highest incidence of visual improvement (81.9% TSM, 54.6% OGM), followed by eSKA (65.9% TSM, 52.9% OGM) and mTCA (63.9% TSM, 45.7% OGM). However, in terms of safety, the EEA possessed the highest cerebrospinal fluid leak incidence (9.2% TSM, 14.5% OGM), compared with eSKA (2.1% TSM, 1.6% OGM) and mTCA (1.6% TSM, 6.5% OGM). Finally, mortality and intraoperative arterial injury were 1% or lower across all subgroups.

Conclusions

In the context of diverse study populations, the eSKA appeared not to be associated with increased adverse outcomes when compared with mTCA and EEA and offered comparable effectiveness. Case-selection is paramount in establishing a role for the eSKA in anterior skull base tumours.
Do cognitive interventions for preschoolers improve executive functions and reduce ADHD and externalizing symptoms? A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Pauli-Pott Ursula , Mann Christopher , Becker Katja
Published: September 2020

Many interventions targeting executive function (EF) development in the preschool period, where malleability might be particularly high, have been created and evaluated. We conducted a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the effects of these interventions on (a) EFs in preschool children from the general population as well as preschool children with (symptoms of) attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), and (b) ADHD and ODD symptoms in preschool children with ADHD/ODD (symptoms). Literature search yielded 35 RCTs. Risk of bias of the individual studies was assessed. A random-effects model was used. Moderator effects were tested using mixed model analyses. The overall effects on EFs were: d = 0.46 (95% CI 0.30–0.61) for working memory (WM), d = 0.30 (95% CI 0.21–0.38) for inhibitory control (IC), d = 0.33 (95% CI − 0.04 to 0.71) for reward-related IC, and d = 0.47 (95% CI 0.28–0.66) for flexibility. In children with ADHD/ODD, mean effects were d = 0.64 (95% CI 0.31–0.96) for WM and d = 0.46 (95% CI 0.07–0.84) for IC. Studies on reward-related IC and FL were lacking. Effects on ODD and ADHD symptoms were d = 0.40 (95% CI − 0.23 to 1.03) and d = 0.28 (95% CI − 0.08 to 0.64), respectively. Interventions targeting multiple EFs and using interpersonal cognitive scaffolding approaches showed large and statistically significant effects on ADHD and ODD symptoms. In preschool children of the general population and in those with ADHD/ODD (symptoms), interventions led to an improvement of EF performance. In children with ADHD and ODD, cognitive scaffolding interventions were most effective in terms of reducing ADHD and ODD symptoms. However, more well-controlled studies need to be conducted before any firm conclusions can be drawn.
Incremental execution of rule-based model transformation
Authors: Boronat Artur
Published: September 2020

When model transformations are used to implement consistency relations between very large models, incrementality plays a cornerstone role in detecting and resolving inconsistencies efficiently when models are updated. Given a directed consistency relation between two models, the problem studied in this work consists in propagating model changes from a source model to a target model in order to ensure consistency while minimizing computational costs. The mechanism that enforces such consistency is called consistency maintainer and, in this context, its scalability is a required non-functional requirement. State-of-the-art model transformation engines with support for incrementality normally rely on an observer pattern for linking model changes, also known as deltas, to the application of model transformation rules, in so-called dependencies, at run time. These model changes can then be propagated along an already executed model transformation. Only a few approaches to model transformation provide domain-specific languages for representing and storing model changes in order to enable their use in asynchronous, event-based execution environments. The principal contribution of this work is the design of a forward change propagation mechanism for incremental execution of model transformations, which decouples dependency tracking from change propagation using two innovations. First, the observer pattern-based model is replaced with dependency injection, decoupling domain models from consistency maintainers. Second, a standardized representation of model changes is reused, enabling interoperability with EMF-compliant tools, both for defining model changes and for processing them asynchronously. This procedure has been implemented in a model transformation engine, whose performance has been evaluated experimentally using the VIATRA CPS benchmark. In the experiments performed, the new transformation engine shows gains in the form of several orders of magnitude in the initial phase of the incremental execution of the benchmark model transformation and change propagation is performed in real time for those model sizes that are processable by other tools and, in addition, is able to process much larger models.
Learning inguinal hernia repair? A survey of current practice and of preferred methods of surgical residents
Authors: Nazari T. , Dankbaar M. E. W. , Sanders D. L. , Anderegg M. C. J. , Wiggers T. , Simons M. P.
Published: September 2020

Purpose

During surgical residency, many learning methods are available to learn an inguinal hernia repair (IHR). This study aimed to investigate which learning methods are most commonly used and which are perceived as most important by surgical residents for open and endoscopic IHR.

Methods

European general surgery residents were invited to participate in a 9-item web-based survey that inquired which of the learning methods were used (checking one or more of 13 options) and what their perceived importance was on a 5-point Likert scale (1 = completely not important to 5 = very important).

Results

In total, 323 residents participated. The five most commonly used learning methods for open and endoscopic IHR were apprenticeship style learning in the operation room (OR) (98% and 96%, respectively), textbooks (67% and 49%, respectively), lectures (50% and 44%, respectively), video-demonstrations (53% and 66%, respectively) and journal articles (54% and 54%, respectively). The three most important learning methods for the open and endoscopic IHR were participation in the OR [5.00 (5.00–5.00) and 5.00 (5.00–5.00), respectively], video-demonstrations [4.00 (4.00–5.00) and 4.00 (4.00–5.00), respectively], and hands-on hernia courses [4.00 (4.00–5.00) and 4.00 (4.00–5.00), respectively].

Conclusion

This study demonstrated a discrepancy between learning methods that are currently used by surgical residents to learn the open and endoscopic IHR and preferred learning methods. There is a need for more emphasis on practising before entering the OR. This would support surgical residents’ training by first observing, then practising and finally performing the surgery in the OR.
Correction to: Food-derived coagulase-negative Staphylococcus as starter cultures for fermented foods
Authors: Heo Sojeong , Lee Jong-Hoon , Jeong Do-Won
Published: September 2020

The article “Food-derived coagulase-negative Staphylococcus as starter cultures for fermented foods”, written by Sojeong Heo, Jong-Hoon Lee, and Do-Won Jeong, was originally published Online First without Open Access.
Correction to: Roles and action mechanisms of herbs added to the emulsion on its lipid oxidation
Authors: Choe Eunok
Published: September 2020

The article “Roles and action mechanisms of herbs added to the emulsion on its lipid oxidation”, written by Eunok Choe, was originally published Online First without Open Access.
Correction to: Electrochemical impedimetric biosensors for food safety
Authors: Chai Changhoon , Oh Se-Wook
Published: September 2020

The article “Electrochemical impedimetric biosensors for food safety”, written by Changhoon Chai and Se-Wook Oh, was originally published Online First without Open Access.
On the determinants of data breaches: A cointegration analysis
Authors: De Giovanni Domenico , Leccadito Arturo , Pirra Marco
Published: September 2020

Cyber risks and particularly data breaches constitute one of the new frontiers of risk modeling for insurers across the world. We use the cointegration methodology to uncover the relation between data breaches and Bitcoin-related variables. We perform our analyses on two different datasets of data breaches. In both cases, we provide statistical evidence of a bidirectional lead–lag relation in the short run between the variables under investigation. Moreover, the existence of a cointegrating vector suggests that this relation is likely to persist in the long run. To evaluate the quantitative implications of the relations found, we complement the study with Granger causality tests, impulse response analyses and variance decompositions of the forecasting errors.
All better than being disengaged: Student engagement patterns and their relations to academic self-concept and achievement
Authors: Schnitzler Katharina , Holzberger Doris , Seidel Tina
Published: September 2020

Student participation and cognitive and emotional engagement in learning activities play a key role in student academic achievement and are driven by student motivational characteristics such as academic self-concept. These relations have been well established with variable-centered analyses, but in this study, a person-centered analysis was applied to describe how the different aspects of student engagement are combined within individual students. Specifically, we investigated how the number of hand-raisings interacts with student cognitive and emotional engagement in various engagement patterns. Additionally, it was analyzed how these engagement patterns relate to academic self-concept as an antecedent and achievement as an outcome. In an empirical study, high school students (N = 397) from 20 eighth-grade classrooms were surveyed and videotaped during one mathematics school lesson. The design included a pre- and post-test, with the videotaping occurring in between. Five within-student engagement patterns were identified by latent profile analysis: disengaged, compliant, silent, engaged, and busy. Students with higher academic self-concept were more likely to show a pattern of moderate to high engagement. Compared with students with low engagement, students with higher engagement patterns gained systematically in end-of-year achievement. These findings illustrate the power of person-centered analyses to illuminate the complexity of student engagement. They imply the need for differentiation beyond disengaged and engaged students and bring along the recognition that being engaged can take on various forms, from compliant to busy.
Pollutant analysis using passive samplers: principles, sorbents, calibration and applications. A review
Authors: Godlewska Klaudia , Stepnowski Piotr , Paszkiewicz Monika
Published: September 2020

Passive techniques are a constantly evolving method of monitoring water pollution, allowing the simultaneous sampling and concentration of selected chemical compounds. The most popular aqueous passive samplers are those in which sorbents are used as receiving phases, including: the Polar Organic Chemical Integrative Sampler (POCIS). Originally, POCIS contained the copolymer poly(divinylbenzene)-co-N-vinylpyrrolidone, which allowed the collection of analytes with 0 ≤ log Kow ≤ 5, The limitation of the use of conventional samplers for sampling water pollutants only with a specific polarity has resulted in the fact that innovative sorbents are used more and more in POCIS-like samplers. In recent years, application of several innovative sorbents in POCIS-like samplers, for example: mixed-mode ion exchange polymeric sorbents, ionic liquids, molecularly imprinted polymers and carbon nanotubes has been described. This is the first review in which the usability of classical and innovative sorbents used in passive techniques principles has been collected and compared, and it has been shown that the type of sorbent can significantly affect the efficiency of sampling pollutants in the aquatic environment. The major points are the following: 1) principle of operation, of passive samplers, 2) characteristics of POCIS and sorbents used as receiving phases, 3) sampler calibration methods and environmental factors affecting their operation, 4) a detailed description of the application possibilities of conventional and innovative sorbents used in POCIS-like samplers. This review shows the growing number of works on the use of innovative sorption materials to overcome limitation of originally designed POCIS, and the published results, allow us to conclude that the type of sorbent may be a key factor in increasing the applicability of POCIS-like samplers.
Lymph node response to chemoradiotherapy in oesophageal cancer patients: relationship with radiotherapy fields
Authors: Koemans Willem J. , Larue Ruben T. H. M. , Kloft Maximilian , Ruisch Jessica E. , Compter Inge , Riedl Robert G. , Heij Lara R. , van Elmpt Wouter , Berbée Maaike , Buijsen Jeroen , Lambin Philippe , Sosef Meindert N. , Grabsch Heike I.
Published: September 2020

Background

The presence of lymph node metastasis (LNmets) is a poor prognostic factor in oesophageal cancer (OeC) patients treated with neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT) followed by surgery. Tumour regression grade (TRG) in LNmets has been suggested as a predictor for survival. The aim of this study was to investigate whether TRG in LNmets is related to their location within the radiotherapy (RT) field.

Methods

Histopathological TRG was retrospectively classified in 2565 lymph nodes (LNs) from 117 OeC patients treated with nCRT and surgery as: (A) no tumour, no signs of regression; (B) tumour without regression; (C) viable tumour and regression; and (D) complete response. Multivariate survival analysis was used to investigate the relationship between LN location within the RT field, pathological TRG of the LN and TRG of the primary tumour.

Results

In 63 (54%) patients, viable tumour cells or signs of regression were seen in 264 (10.2%) LNs which were classified as TRG-B (n = 56), C (n = 104) or D (n = 104) LNs. 73% of B, C and D LNs were located within the RT field. There was a trend towards a relationship between LN response and anatomical LN location with respect to the RT field (p = 0.052). Multivariate analysis showed that only the presence of LNmets within the RT field with TRG-B is related to poor overall survival.

Conclusion

Patients have the best survival if all LNmets show tumour regression, even if LNmets are located outside the RT field. Response in LNmets to nCRT is heterogeneous which warrants further studies to better understand underlying mechanisms.
From the Potential to the First Hochschild Cohomology Group of a Cluster Tilted Algebra
Authors: Assem Ibrahim , Bustamante Juan Carlos , Trepode Sonia , Valdivieso Yadira
Published: September 2020

The objective of this paper is to give a concrete interpretation of the dimension of the first Hochschild cohomology space of a cyclically oriented or tame cluster tilted algebra in terms of a numerical invariant arising from the potential.
Classification of COVID-19 in chest X-ray images using DeTraC deep convolutional neural network
Authors: Abbas Asmaa , Abdelsamea Mohammed M. , Gaber Mohamed Medhat
Published: September 2020

Chest X-ray is the first imaging technique that plays an important role in the diagnosis of COVID-19 disease. Due to the high availability of large-scale annotated image datasets, great success has been achieved using convolutional neural networks (CNNs) for image recognition and classification. However, due to the limited availability of annotated medical images, the classification of medical images remains the biggest challenge in medical diagnosis. Thanks to transfer learning, an effective mechanism that can provide a promising solution by transferring knowledge from generic object recognition tasks to domain-specific tasks. In this paper, we validate and a deepCNN, called Decompose, Transfer, and Compose (DeTraC), for the classification of COVID-19 chest X-ray images.DeTraCcan deal with any irregularities in the image dataset by investigating its class boundaries using a class decomposition mechanism. The experimental results showed the capability ofDeTraCin the detection of COVID-19 cases from a comprehensive image dataset collected from several hospitals around the world. High accuracy of 93.1% (with a sensitivity of 100%) was achieved byDeTraCin the detection of COVID-19 X-ray images from normal, and severe acute respiratory syndrome cases.
Genetic Inactivation of Two-Pore Channel 1 Impairs Spatial Learning and Memory
Authors: Mallmann Robert Theodor , Klugbauer Norbert
Published: September 2020

Two-pore channels (TPCs) constitute a small family of cation channels that are localized in membranes of endosomal and lysosomal compartments. Although their roles for vesicular fusion and endolysosomal trafficking have been investigated, our knowledge on their expression pattern and higher order functions in the murine brain is still limited. Western blot analysis indicated a broad expression of TPC1 in the neocortex, cerebellum and hippocampus. In order to investigate the consequences of the genetic inactivation of TPC1, we performed a set of behavioural studies with TPC1−/− mice. TPC1−/− mice were analysed for an altered motor coordination and grip-strength, exploratory drive and anxiety as well as learning and memory. TPC1−/− mice did not show any differences in their exploratory drive or in their anxiety levels. There were also no differences in spontaneous activity or motor performance. However, the Morris water maze test uncovered a deficit in spatial learning and memory in TPC1−/− mice.
Validation and calibration of coupled porous-medium and free-flow problems using pore-scale resolved models
Authors: Rybak Iryna , Schwarzmeier Christoph , Eggenweiler Elissa , Rüde Ulrich
Published: September 2020

The correct choice of interface conditions and effective parameters for coupled macroscale free-flow and porous-medium models is crucial for a complete mathematical description of the problem under consideration and for accurate numerical simulation of applications. We consider single-fluid-phase systems described by the Stokes–Darcy model. Different sets of coupling conditions for this model are available. However, the choice of these conditions and effective model parameters is often arbitrary. We use large-scale lattice Boltzmann simulations to validate coupling conditions by comparison of the macroscale simulations against pore-scale resolved models. We analyse three settings (lid-driven cavity over a porous bed, infiltration problem and general filtration problem) with different geometrical configurations (channelised and staggered distributions of solid grains) and different sets of interface conditions. Effective parameters for the macroscale models (permeability tensor, boundary layer constants) are computed numerically for each geometrical configuration. Numerical simulation results demonstrate the sensitivity of the coupled Stokes–Darcy problem to the location of the sharp fluid–porous interface, the effective model parameters and the interface conditions.
Investigating Visual Perception in Teaching and Learning with Advanced Eye-Tracking Methodologies: Rewards and Challenges of an Innovative Research Paradigm
Authors: Nückles Matthias
Published: September 2020

In this discussion paper, teaching and learning are characterized as being situated, complex, and reciprocally interactive activities. Accordingly, a teacher’s pedagogical actions are always action and reaction at the same time. Irrespective of the reciprocally interactive nature of teaching and learning, educational research has sought to identify characteristics of teacher expertise that enable teachers to influence students’ learning in a systematic and positive way. In this respect, the contributions to this special issue offer an innovative research paradigm, because they bring together different and originally separated strands of research: (1) research on professional vision in teacher education, (2) research on the structure and development of expertise in cognitive science, (3) research on cognitive processes by means of eye-tracking technologies in psychology, and (4) research on educational effectiveness and instructional quality in educational science. Following this introduction, a detailed discussion of the rewards and challenges of each of the seven contributions is provided. This discussion leads to the following conclusions: (a) The emphasis on the “reacting teacher” in professional vision research undervalues the role of lesson planning for the flexible handling of sudden events during class instruction. (b) The assumption of professional vision asmediatorbetween a teacher’s knowledge and pedagogical actions overlooks that teachers can sometimes do more than they can tell. (c) Not all of the gaze behavior that is currently studied needs to be instructed. (d) Research should move beyond explorative expert-novice comparisons to hypotheses-driven designs that investigate how teachers can learn to successfully apply evidence-based pedagogical principles.
What counts as a “good” argument in school?—how teachers grade students’ mathematical arguments
Authors: Meyer Michael , Schnell Susanne
Published: September 2020

As argumentation is an activity at the heart of mathematics, (not only) German school curricula request students to construct mathematical arguments, which get evaluated by teachers. However, it remains unclear which criteria teachers use to decide on a specific grade in a summative assessment setting. In this paper, we draw on two sources for these criteria: First, we present theoretically derived dimensions along which arguments can be assessed. Second, a qualitative interview study with 16 teachers from German secondary schools provides insights in their criteria developed in practice. Based on the detailed presentation of the case of one teacher, the paper then illustrates how criteria developed in practice take a variety of different aspects into account and also correspond with the theoretically identified dimensions. The findings are discussed in terms of implications for the teaching and learning about mathematical argumentation in school and university: An emphasis on more pedagogical criteria in high school offers one explanation to the perceived gap between school and university level mathematics.
Comparative life cycle assessment of Fe2O3-based fibers as anode materials for sodium-ion batteries
Authors: Malara Angela , Pantò Fabiola , Santangelo Saveria , Antonucci Pier Luigi , Fiore Michele , Longoni Gianluca , Ruffo Riccardo , Frontera Patrizia
Published: September 2020

Sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) potentially represent a more sustainable, less expensive and environmentally friendly alternative to lithium-ion batteries. The development of new low-cost, non-toxic, highly performing electrode materials is the key point for the SIB technology advances. This study develops a basic life cycle assessment (LCA) model for the evaluation of the production by electrospinning of iron (III) oxide-based fibers to be used as anode materials in SIBs. Indeed, it has been recently demonstrated that electrospun silicon-doped iron (III) oxide (Fe2O3) fibers exhibit outstanding electrochemical properties and gravimetric capacities never achieved before for pure Fe2O3-based anodes. The LCA methodology is utilized in order to analyze the environmental burdens (from raw material extraction to manufacturing process) of these electrode materials. The simplified comparative LCA studies, conducted to assess the environmental impacts associated with the electrospun Fe2O3 and Fe2O3:Si fibers at the same cell performance, demonstrate that the Si-doped anode material, which exhibits better electrochemical performance with respect to the undoped one, has also lower impact for each category of damage, namely human health, ecosystem quality and resources.
Friendly AI
Authors: Fröding Barbro , Peterson Martin
Published: September 2020

In this paper we discuss what we believe to be one of the most important features of near-future AIs, namely their capacity to behave in a friendly manner to humans. Our analysis of what it means for an AI to behave in a friendly manner does not presuppose that proper friendships between humans and AI systems could exist. That would require reciprocity, which is beyond the reach of near-future AI systems. Rather, we defend the claim that social AIs should be programmed to behave in a manner that mimics a sufficient number of aspects of proper friendship. We call this “as-if friendship”. The main reason for why we believe that ‘as if friendship’ is an improvement on the current, highly submissive behavior displayed by AIs is the negative effects the latter can have on humans. We defend this view partly on virtue ethical grounds and we argue that the virtue-based approach to AI ethics outlined in this paper, which we call “virtue alignment”, is an improvement on the traditional “value alignment” approach.
Genetic testing and surveillance in infantile myofibromatosis: a report from the SIOPE Host Genome Working Group
Authors: Hettmer Simone , Dachy Guillaume , Seitz Guido , Agaimy Abbas , Duncan Catriona , Jongmans Marjolijn , Hirsch Steffen , Kventsel Iris , Kordes Uwe , de Krijger Ronald R. , Metzler Markus , Michaeli Orli , Nemes Karolina , Poluha Anna , Ripperger Tim , Russo Alexandra , Smetsers Stephanie , Sparber-Sauer Monika , Stutz Eveline , Bourdeaut Franck , Kratz Christian P. , Demoulin Jean-Baptiste
Published: September 2020

Infantile myofibromatosis (IM), which is typically diagnosed in young children, comprises a wide clinical spectrum ranging from inconspicuous solitary soft tissue nodules to multiple disseminated tumors resulting in life-threatening complications. Familial IM follows an autosomal dominant mode of inheritance and is linked toPDGFRBgermline variants. SomaticPDGFRBvariants were also detected in solitary and multifocal IM lesions.PDGFRBvariants associated with IM constitutively activate PDGFRB kinase activity in the absence of its ligand. Germline variants have lower activating capabilities than somatic variants and, thus, require a second cis-acting hit for full receptor activation. Typically, these mutant receptors remain sensitive to tyrosine kinase inhibitors such as imatinib. The SIOPE Host Genome Working Group, consisting of pediatric oncologists, clinical geneticists and scientists, met in January 2020 to discuss recommendations for genetic testing and surveillance for patients who are diagnosed with IM or have a family history of IM/PDGFRBgermline variants. This report provides a brief review of the clinical manifestations and genetics of IM and summarizes our interdisciplinary recommendations.
On the Classification Between $$\psi$$-Ontic and $$\psi$$-Epistemic Ontological Models
Authors: Oldofredi Andrea , López Cristian
Published: September 2020

Harrigan and Spekkens (Found Phys 40:125–157, 2010) provided a categorization of quantum ontological models classifying them as$$\psi$$ψ-ontic or$$\psi$$ψ-epistemic if the quantum state$$\psi$$ψdescribes respectively either a physical reality or mere observers’ knowledge. Moreover, they claimed that Einstein—who was a supporter of the statistical interpretation of quantum mechanics—endorsed an epistemic view of$$\psi .$$ψ.In this essay we critically assess such a classification and some of its consequences by proposing a twofold argumentation. Firstly, we show that Harrigan and Spekkens’ categorization implicitly assumes that a complete description of a quantum system (its ontic state,$$\lambda$$λ) only concernssingle,individualsystems instantiatingabsolute,intrinsicproperties. Secondly, we argue that such assumptions conflict with some current interpretations of quantum mechanics, which employ different ontic states as a complete description of quantum systems. In particular, we will show that, since in the statistical interpretation ontic states describe ensembles rather than individuals, such a view cannot be considered$$\psi$$ψ-epistemic. As a consequence, the authors misinterpreted Einstein’s view concerning the nature of the quantum state. Next, we will focus onrelational quantum mechanicsandperspectival quantum mechanics, which in virtue of their relational and perspectival metaphysics employ ontic states$$\lambda$$λdealing with relational properties. We conclude that Harrigan and Spekkens’ categorization is too narrow and entails an inadequate classification of the mentioned interpretations of quantum theory. Hence, any satisfactory classification of quantum ontological models ought to take into account the variations of$$\lambda$$λacross different interpretations of quantum mechanics.
Improved existence for the characteristic initial value problem with the conformal Einstein field equations
Authors: Hilditch David , Valiente Kroon Juan A. , Zhao Peng
Published: September 2020

We adapt Luk’s analysis of the characteristic initial value problem in general relativity to the asymptotic characteristic problem for the conformal Einstein field equations to demonstrate the local existence of solutions in a neighbourhood of the set on which the data are given. In particular, we obtain existence of solutions along a narrow rectangle along null infinity which, in turn, corresponds to an infinite domain in the asymptotic region of the physical spacetime. This result generalises work by Kánnár on the local existence of solutions to the characteristic initial value problem by means of Rendall’s reduction strategy. In analysing the conformal Einstein equations we make use of the Newman–Penrose formalism and a gauge due to J. Stewart.
Attack and Defense Strategies in Cyber War Involving Production and Stockpiling of Zero-Day Cyber Exploits
Authors: Hausken Kjell , Welburn Jonathan W.
Published: September 2020

Two players strike balances between allocating resources for defense and production of zero-day exploits. Production is further allocated into cyberattack or stockpiling. Applying the Cobb Douglas expected utility function for equivalent players, an analytical solution is determined where each player’s expected utility is inverse U shaped in each player’s unit defense cost. More generally, simulations illustrate the impact of varying nine parameter values relative to a benchmark. Increasing a player’s unit costs of defense or development of zero-days benefits the opposing player. Increasing the contest intensities over the two players’ assets causes the players to increase their efforts until their resources are fully exploited and they receive zero expected utility. Decreasing the Cobb Douglas output elasticity for a player’s stockpiling of zero-days causes its attack to increase and its expected utility to eventually reach a maximum, while the opposing player’s expected utility reaches a minimum. Altering the Cobb Douglas output elasticities for a player’s attack or defense contests towards their maxima or minima causes maximum expected utility for both players.
Application of Latent Class Analysis to Identify Subgroups of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders who Benefit from Social Skills Training
Authors: Dekker Vera , Nauta Maaike H. , Timmerman Marieke E. , Mulder Erik J. , Hoekstra Pieter J. , de Bildt Annelies
Published: September 2020

With Latent Class Analysis applied on data of 98 children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) (9–12 years; 17 girls) participating in social skills training (SST) in a randomized controlled trial (Dekker et al. 2019), four subgroups were detected, based on social-communicative skills before, and response patterns to training. Two subgroups improved after SST. Characterizing the subgroups based on participant and intervention characteristics showed that improvement was related to lower parent-reported perceived difficulty of social-communicative skills at start, higher verbal ability, younger age and milder symptoms of ASD and anxiety. The lowest performing non-improving subgroup participated more often in SST without parent/teacher involvement, compared to all other subgroups. Response to SST in ASD seems to vary depending on participant characteristics.
Machine Learning Guidance for Connection Tableaux
Authors: Färber Michael , Kaliszyk Cezary , Urban Josef
Published: September 2020

Connection calculi allow for very compact implementations of goal-directed proof search. We give an overview of our work related to connection tableaux calculi: first, we show optimised functional implementations of connection tableaux proof search, including a consistent Skolemisation procedure for machine learning. Then, we show two guidance methods based on machine learning, namely reordering of proof steps with Naive Bayesian probabilities, and expansion of a proof search tree with Monte Carlo Tree Search.
Automatic solar cell diagnosis and treatment
Authors: Rodriguez Alvaro , Gonzalez Carlos , Fernandez Andres , Rodriguez Francisco , Delgado Tamara , Bellman Martin
Published: September 2020

Solar cells represent one of the most important sources of clean energy in modern societies. Solar cell manufacturing is a delicate process that often introduces defects that reduce cell efficiency or compromise durability. Current inspection systems detect and discard faulty cells, wasting a significant percentage of resources. We introduceCell Doctor, a new inspection system that uses state of the art techniques to locate and classify defects in solar cells and performs a diagnostic and treatment process to isolate or eliminate the defects.Cell Doctoruses a fully automatic process that can be included in a manufacturing line. Incoming solar cells are first moved with a robotic arm to an Electroluminescence diagnostic station, where they are imaged and analysed with a set of Gabor filters, a Principal Component Analysis technique, a Random Forest classifier and different image processing techniques to detect possible defects in the surface of the cell. After the diagnosis, a laser station performs an isolation or cutting process depending on the detected defects. In a final stage, the solar cells are characterised in terms of their I–V Curve and I–V Parameters, in a Solar Simulator station. We validated and testedCell Doctorwith a labelled dataset of images of monocrystalline silicon cells, obtaining an accuracy and recall above 90% forCracks,Area DefectsandFinger interruptions; and precision values of 77% for Finger Interruptions and above 90% forCracksandArea Defects.Which allowsCell Doctorto diagnose and repair solar cells in an industrial environment in a fully automatic way.
Nutrient and dissolved inorganic carbon variability in the North Pacific
Authors: Yasunaka Sayaka , Mitsudera Humio , Whitney Frank , Nakaoka Shin-ichiro
Published: September 2020

A compilation of surface water nutrient (phosphate, nitrate, and silicate) and partial pressure of CO2 (pCO2) observations from 1961 to 2016 reveals seasonal and interannual variability in the North Pacific. Nutrients and calculated dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) reach maximum concentrations in March and minimum in August. Nutrient and DIC variability is in-phase (anti-phase) with changes in the mixed layer depth (sea surface temperature) north of 30 °N, and it is anti-phase (in-phase) with changes in Chl-a north of 40 °N (in 30 °N–40 °N). Seasonal drawdown of nutrients and DIC is larger toward the northwest and shows a local maximum in the boundary region between the subarctic and subtropics. Stoichiometric ratios of seasonal drawdown show that, compared to nitrate, silicate drawdown is large in the northwestern subarctic including the Bering and Okhotsk seas, and drawdown of carbon is larger toward the south. Net community production in mixed layer from March to July is estimated to be more than 6 gC/m2/mo in the boundary region between the subarctic and subtropics, the western subarctic, the Gulf of Alaska, and the Bering Sea. Nutrient and DIC concentrations vary with the Pacific Decadal Oscillation and the North Pacific Gyre Oscillation which cause changes in horizontal advection and vertical mixing. The DIC trend is positive in all analysis area and large in the western subtropics (> 1.0 μmol/l/yr). Averaged over the analysis area, it is increasing by 0.77 ± 0.03 μmol/l/yr (0.75 ± 0.02 μmol/kg/yr).
Hope Mediates the Relation between Income and Subjective Well-Being
Authors: Pleeging Emma , Burger Martijn , van Exel Job
Published: September 2020

In this study, we examine whether the positive effect of income gains on subjective well-being (SWB) can in part be explained by the improved future prospects that are generated by a more solid financial situation. Using three-wave panel data from the US, we inspect the relation between changes in income, hope and SWB using a fixed-effects model. Results show that hope indeed partially mediates the relation between income and SWB, but only for monthly incomes over $1800. Positive expectations, on the other hand, mediate the relation for all income levels. From the two components of hope, agency, the belief that we can achieve our goals, seems to be the strongest mediator. We find no indications that extremely high levels of hope or expectations will harm SWB through disappointment.
Modern Northern Domestic Horses Carry Mitochondrial DNA Similar to Przewalski’s Horse
Authors: Kvist Laura , Niskanen Markku
Published: September 2020

Several recent studies have suggested past gene flow between the Przewalski’s horse and modern domestic horse and questioned the wild origin of the Przewalski’s horse. Mitochondrial DNA has placed representatives of the Przewalski’s horse into three among the eighteen haplogroups detected from the modern horse. Of these, two haplogroups have so far been found exclusively in the Przewalski’s horse, while the one shared with the domestic horse includes captive individuals that have uncertain pedigrees. We recently found five domestic horse individuals of North European horse breeds to carry a mitochondrial haplogroup that was previously confined only to the Przewalski’s horse. These individuals were sequenced for 6039 bp of mitochondrial DNA and used, together with domestic and Przewalski’s horse sequences presenting all horse haplogroups, to examine the phylogenetic relationships and to date the divergence time between Przewalski’s and domestic horse clusters within this haplogroup. The divergence was dated to have likely occurred about 13,300–11,400 years ago, which coincides with the time of the Younger Dryas.