bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The association between meat and fish consumption and bladder cancer risk: a pooled analysis of 11 cohort studies
Authors: Dianatinasab Mostafa , Wesselius Anke , de Loeij Tessa , Salehi-Abargouei Amin , Yu Evan Y. W. , Fararouei Mohammad , Brinkman Maree , van den Brandt Piet , White Emily , Weiderpass Elisabete , Le Calvez-Kelm Florence , Gunter Marc J. , Huybrechts Inge , Liedberg Fredrik , Skeie Guri , Tjonneland Anne , Riboli Elio , Zeegers Maurice P.
Published: May 2021

Evidence on the effects of meat consumption from different sources on the risk of bladder cancer (BC) is limited and controversial. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the associations between meat consumption and BC risk using a pooled data approach. Individual data from 11 prospective cohorts comprising 2848 BC cases and 515,697 non-cases with a total of 5,498,025 person-years of follow-up was pooled and analysed to investigate the potential associations between total red meat and products, red meat, processed meat, poultry and total fish and BC risk. Hazard ratios (HRs), with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs), were estimated using Cox regression models stratified on cohort. Overall, an increased BC risk was found for high intake of organ meat (HR comparing highest with lowest tertile: 1.18, 95% CI: 1.03, 1.36, p-trend = 0.03). On the contrary, a marginally inverse association was observed for total fish intake and BC risk among men (HR comparing highest with lowest tertile: 0.79, 95% CI 0.65, 0.97, p-trend = 0.04). No associations were observed for other meat sources. Results of this prospective study suggest that organ meat consumption may be associated with BC development. Replication in large-scale prospective studies and investigation of possible causal mechanisms is needed.
Hidden in plain sight: a molecular field survey of three wheat leaf blotch fungal diseases in North-Western Europe shows co-infection is widespread
Authors: Justesen Annemarie Fejer , Corsi Beatrice , Ficke Andrea , Hartl Lorenz , Holdgate Sarah , Jørgensen Lise Nistrup , Lillemo Morten , Lin Min , Mackay Ian J. , Mohler Volker , Stadlmeier Melanie , Tan Kar-Chun , Turner Judith , Oliver Richard P. , Cockram James
Published: May 2021

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) yields are commonly affected by foliar infection by fungal pathogens. Of these, three wheat leaf blotch fungal diseases, septoria nodorum blotch (SNB), tan spot (TS) and septoria tritici blotch (STB), caused by Parastagonospora nodorum (Pn), Pyrenophora tritici-repentis (Ptr) and Zymoseptoria tritici (Zt), respectively, induce major yield losses. Infection results in necrotic areas on the leaf, and it is often difficult to determine the underlying causative pathogen from visible symptoms alone, especially in mixed infections. Here, a regional survey of 330 wheat samples collected across three seasons (years 2015–2017) from four north-west European countries was undertaken. Using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assays specific for each pathogen, as well as disease assessment of leaf materials, distinct regional differences were identified. Two-thirds (65%) of all samples harbored at least two of the three pathogens. Norway had high SNB abundance, but also showed mixed infections of SNB, TS and STB. In Germany, TS was prevalent, with STB also common. Danish samples commonly possessed all three pathogens, with STB prevalent, followed by TS and SNB. The UK had a major prevalence of STB with minimal occurrence of TS and SNB. Across all samples, qPCR identified Zt, Pn and Ptr in 90%, 54% and 57% of samples, respectively. For each pathogen, average disease levels via visual assessment showed modest positive correlation with fungal DNA concentrations (R2 = 0.13–0.32). Overall, our study highlights that the occurrence of mixed infection is common and widespread, with important implications for wheat disease management and breeding strategies.
Trapped in inactivity? Social assistance and labour supply in Austria
Authors: Christl Michael , De Poli Silvia
Published: May 2021

Financial incentives affect the labour supply decisions of households. However, the impact usually varies significantly across household types. Whilst there is a substantial amount of literature on the labour supply effects of tax reforms and in-work benefits, the impact of changes in social assistance benefits has received less attention. This paper analyses labour supply responses to changes in social assistance. We show that labour supply elasticities vary substantially across gender and household type. Women exhibit higher labour supply elasticities, both on the intensive and the extensive margins. Additionally, labour supply elasticities are typically higher for singles and for households with children. Using these results, we analyse the impact of the Austrian reform proposal “Neue Sozialhilfe” (New Social Assistance), which was introduced in 2019 and substantially cut social assistance benefits for migrants and families with children. The overall effects of the reform are especially strong for men and migrants. Migrants and couples with children, that is, the groups hardest hit by the reform’s social assistance reductions, show the strongest labour supply reactions to the New Social Assistance. Furthermore, we show that overall, the reform is expected to have a positive, but small, effect on the intensive margin of labour supply.
Barriers and Facilitators for Implementation of Individualized Fire Safety (IFS) in Sweden
Authors: Gustavsson Johanna , Carlsson Gunilla , McNamee Margaret S.
Published: May 2021

In 2010, the Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency (MSB) announced a “vision zero” of zero fire deaths in Sweden by 2050. Studies into fire deaths have identified that certain risk groups, including but not limited to older people, are overrepresented in fire death statistics in Sweden. The MSB has developed guidelines for how individualised fire safety (IFS) can be implemented in local communities for risk groups, in support of their vision zero for fire deaths. This paper presents the results of an interview study with a selection of Swedish municipalities to further explore how municipalities are working with IFS programs for community dwelling older people. The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research has been used to analyse data developed through semi-structured interviews, from an analysis of the delegation of authority from MSB to local level and assessment of secondary documentation from national, regional and local organisations. The analysis has identified that IFS has, indeed, been implemented to varying degrees in Sweden, but that there are both facilitators and barriers which can be further leveraged to improve the implementation of IFS in the future.
Symplectic Quantization II: Dynamics of Space–Time Quantum Fluctuations and the Cosmological Constant
Authors: Gradenigo Giacomo
Published: May 2021

The symplectic quantization scheme proposed for matter scalar fields in the companion paper (Gradenigo and Livi, arXiv:2101.02125, 2021) is generalized here to the case of space–time quantum fluctuations. That is, we present a new formalism to frame the quantum gravity problem. Inspired by the stochastic quantization approach to gravity, symplectic quantization considers an explicit dependence of the metric tensor $$g_{\mu \nu }$$

g

μ
ν

on an additional time variable, named intrinsic time at variance with the coordinate time of relativity, from which it is different. The physical meaning of intrinsic time, which is truly a parameter and not a coordinate, is to label the sequence of $$g_{\mu \nu }$$

g

μ
ν

quantum fluctuations at a given point of the four-dimensional space–time continuum. For this reason symplectic quantization necessarily incorporates a new degree of freedom, the derivative $${\dot{g}}_{\mu \nu }$$

g
˙

μ
ν

of the metric field with respect to intrinsic time, corresponding to the conjugated momentum $$\pi _{\mu \nu }$$

π

μ
ν

. Our proposal is to describe the quantum fluctuations of gravity by means of a symplectic dynamics generated by a generalized action functional $${\mathcal {A}}[g_{\mu \nu },\pi _{\mu \nu }] = {\mathcal {K}}[g_{\mu \nu },\pi _{\mu \nu }] - S[g_{\mu \nu }]$$

A

[

g

μ
ν

,

π

μ
ν

]

=
K

[

g

μ
ν

,

π

μ
ν

]

-
S

[

g

μ
ν

]

, playing formally the role of a Hamilton function, where $$S[g_{\mu \nu }]$$

S
[

g

μ
ν

]

is the standard Einstein–Hilbert action while $${\mathcal {K}}[g_{\mu \nu },\pi _{\mu \nu }]$$

K
[

g

μ
ν

,

π

μ
ν

]

is a new term including the kinetic degrees of freedom of the field. Such an action allows us to define an ensemble for the quantum fluctuations of $$g_{\mu \nu }$$

g

μ
ν

analogous to the microcanonical one in statistical mechanics, with the only difference that in the present case one has conservation of the generalized action $${\mathcal {A}}[g_{\mu \nu },\pi _{\mu \nu }]$$

A
[

g

μ
ν

,

π

μ
ν

]

and not of energy. Since the Einstein–Hilbert action $$S[g_{\mu \nu }]$$

S
[

g

μ
ν

]

plays the role of a potential term in the new pseudo-Hamiltonian formalism, it can fluctuate along the symplectic action-preserving dynamics. These fluctuations are the quantum fluctuations of $$g_{\mu \nu }$$

g

μ
ν

. Finally, we show how the standard path-integral approach to gravity can be obtained as an approximation of the symplectic quantization approach. By doing so we explain how the integration over the conjugated momentum field $$\pi _{\mu \nu }$$

π

μ
ν

gives rise to a cosmological constant term in the path-integral approach.
Two novel mutations in PADI6 and TLE6 genes cause female infertility due to arrest in embryonic development
Authors: Liu Juan , Tan Zongjian , He Jun , Jin Tingting , Han Yuanyuan , Hu Li , Huang Shengwen
Published: May 2021

Purpose

This study aims to identify genetic causes of female infertility associated with recurrent failure of assisted reproductive technology (ART) characterized by embryonic developmental arrest.

Methods

We recruited infertile patients from two consanguineous families from the Reproductive Medicine Center of Guizhou Provincial People’s Hospital. Peripheral blood was collected for genomic DNA extraction. Two affected individuals and their family members were performed with whole-exome sequencing and Sanger validation in order to identify possible causative genes. For further analyzing the effect of splicing mutation on mRNA integrity in vivo, TLE6 cDNA from the peripheral blood lymphocyte of the affected individual was sequenced. In addition, the possible impact of the pathogenic mutation on the structure and function of the protein were also assessed.

Results

Two novel homozygous mutations in the peptidylarginine deiminase type VI (PADI6) and the transducin-like enhancer of split 6 (TLE6) genes were identified in the two families. One patient carried the frameshift deletion mutation c.831_832del:p.S278Pfs*59 of the PADI6 gene and the other patient carried the splicing mutation c.1245-2 A>G of the TLE6 gene. The analysis of the mRNA from the proband’s peripheral blood leukocytes confirmed aberrant splicing.

Conclusions

Our findings expand the mutational spectrum of PADI6 and TLE6 associated with embryonic developmental arrest and deepen our understanding of the genetic causes of infertility with recurrent ART failure.
On the Use of Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar Data for Monitoring and Forecasting Natural Hazards
Authors: Bernardi Mara S. , Africa Pasquale C. , de Falco Carlo , Formaggia Luca , Menafoglio Alessandra , Vantini Simone
Published: May 2021

Recent advances in satellite technologies, statistical and mathematical models, and computational resources have paved the way for operational use of satellite data in monitoring and forecasting natural hazards. We present a review of the use of satellite data for Earth observation in the context of geohazards preventive monitoring and disaster evaluation and assessment. We describe the techniques exploited to extract ground displacement information from satellite radar sensor images and the applicability of such data to the study of natural hazards such as landslides, earthquakes, volcanic activity, and ground subsidence. In this context, statistical techniques, ranging from time series analysis to spatial statistics, as well as continuum or discrete physics-based models, adopting deterministic or stochastic approaches, are irreplaceable tools for modeling and simulating natural hazards scenarios from a mathematical perspective. In addition to this, the huge amount of data collected nowadays and the complexity of the models and methods needed for an effective analysis set new computational challenges. The synergy among statistical methods, mathematical models, and optimized software, enriched with the assimilation of satellite data, is essential for building predictive and timely monitoring models for risk analysis.
Exploring Multiple‐discreteness in Freight Transport. A Multiple Discrete Extreme Value Model Application for Grain Consolidators in Argentina
Authors: Tapia Rodrigo J. , de Jong Gerard , Larranaga Ana M. , Bettella Cybis Helena B.
Published: May 2021

There are some examples where freight choices may be of a multiple discrete nature, especially the ones at more tactical levels of planning. Nevertheless, this has not been investigated in the literature, although several discrete-continuous models for mode/vehicle type and shipment size choice have been developed in freight transport. In this work, we propose that the decision of port and mode of the grain consolidators in Argentina is of a discrete-continuous nature, where they can choose more than one alternative and how much of their production to send by each mode. The Multiple Discrete Extreme Value Model (MDCEV) framework was applied to a stated preference data set with a response variable that allowed this multiple-discreteness. To our knowledge, this is the only application of the MDCEV in regional freight context. Free alongside ship price, freight transport cost, lead-time and travel time were included in the utility function and observed and random heterogeneity was captured by the interaction with the consolidator’s characteristics and random coefficients. In addition, different discrete choice models were used to compare the forecasting performance, willingness to pay measures and structure of the utility function against.
Prevalence of Nelson’s syndrome after bilateral adrenalectomy in patients with cushing’s disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Papakokkinou Eleni , Piasecka Marta , Carlsen Hanne Krage , Chantzichristos Dimitrios , Olsson Daniel S. , Dahlqvist Per , Petersson Maria , Berinder Katarina , Bensing Sophie , Höybye Charlotte , Engström Britt Edén , Burman Pia , Follin Cecilia , Petranek David , Erfurth Eva Marie , Wahlberg Jeanette , Ekman Bertil , Åkerman Anna-Karin , Schwarcz Erik , Johannsson Gudmundur , Falhammar Henrik , Ragnarsson Oskar
Published: May 2021

Purpose

Bilateral adrenalectomy (BA) still plays an important role in the management of Cushing's disease (CD). Nelson’s syndrome (NS) is a severe complication of BA, but conflicting data on its prevalence and predicting factors have been reported. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of NS, and identify factors associated with its development.

Data sources

Systematic literature search in four databases.

Study Selection

Observational studies reporting the prevalence of NS after BA in adult patients with CD.

Data extraction

Data extraction and risk of bias assessment were performed by three independent investigators.

Data synthesis

Thirty-six studies, with a total of 1316 CD patients treated with BA, were included for the primary outcome. Pooled prevalence of NS was 26% (95% CI 22–31%), with moderate to high heterogeneity (I267%,P < 0.01). The time from BA to NS varied from 2 months to 39 years. The prevalence of NS in the most recently published studies, where magnet resonance imaging was used, was 38% (95% CI 27–50%). The prevalence of treatment for NS was 21% (95% CI 18–26%). Relative risk for NS was not significantly affected by prior pituitary radiotherapy [0.9 (95% CI 0.5–1.6)] or pituitary surgery [0.6 (95% CI 0.4–1.0)].

Conclusions

Every fourth patient with CD treated with BA develops NS, and every fifth patient requires pituitary-specific treatment. The risk of NS may persist for up to four decades after BA. Life-long follow-up is essential for early detection and adequate treatment of NS.
Improving photosynthesis to increase grain yield potential: an analysis of maize hybrids released in different years in China
Authors: Yan Yanyan , Hou Peng , Duan Fengying , Niu Li , Dai Tingbo , Wang Keru , Zhao Ming , Li Shaokun , Zhou Wenbin
Published: May 2021

In this work, we sought to understand how breeding has affected photosynthesis and to identify key photosynthetic indices that are important for increasing maize yield in the field. Our 2-year (2017–2018) field experiment used five high-yielding hybrid maize cultivars (generated in the 1970s, 2000s, and 2010s) and was conducted in the Xinjiang Autonomous Region of China. We investigated the effects of planting density on maize grain yield, photosynthetic parameters, respiration, and chlorophyll content, under three planting density regimens: 75,000, 105,000, and 135,000 plants ha−1. Our results showed that increasing planting density to the medium level (105,000 plants ha−1) significantly increased grain yield (Y) up to 20.32% compared to the low level (75,000 plants ha−1). However, further increasing planting density to 135,000 plants ha−1 did not lead to an additional increase in yield, with some cultivars actually exhibiting an opposite trend. Interestingly, no significant changes in photosynthetic rate, dark respiration, stomatal density, and aperture were observed upon increasing planting density. Moreover, our experiments revealed a positive correlation between grain yield and the net photosynthetic rate (Pn) upon the hybrid release year. Compared to other cultivars, the higher grain yield obtained in DH618 resulted from a higher 1000-kernel weight (TKW), which can be explained by a longer photosynthetic duration, a higher chlorophyll content, and a lower ratio of chlorophyll a/b. Moreover, we found that a higher leaf area per plant and the leaf area index (HI) do not necessarily result in an improvement in maize yield. Taken together, we demonstrated that higher photosynthetic capacity, longer photosynthetic duration, suitable LAI, and higher chlorophyll content with lower chlorophyll a/b ratio are important factors for obtaining high-yielding maize cultivars and can be used for the improvement of maize crop yield.
China’s Mars Exploration Mission and Science Investigation
Authors: Li Chunlai , Zhang Rongqiao , Yu Dengyun , Dong Guangliang , Liu Jianjun , Geng Yan , Sun Zezhou , Yan Wei , Ren Xin , Su Yan , Zuo Wei , Zhang Tielong , Cao Jinbin , Fang Guangyou , Yang Jianfeng , Shu Rong , Lin Yangting , Zou Yongliao , Liu Dawei , Liu Bin , Kong Deqing , Zhu Xinying , Ouyang Ziyuan
Published: May 2021

China’s first Mars exploration mission (HuoXing-1) has been named as ‘Tianwen-1’ meaning Heaven Inquiry. Tianwen-1 was launched on July 23, 2020. In this paper, the scientific objectives of earlier and current Mars exploration missions worldwide are reviewed, and the scientific objectives, payloads and preliminary scientific investigation plan of China’s first Mars exploration mission are introduced, and expected scientific achievements are analyzed.
A two-stage Bayesian semiparametric model for novelty detection with robust prior information
Authors: Denti Francesco , Cappozzo Andrea , Greselin Francesca
Published: May 2021

Novelty detection methods aim at partitioning the test units into already observed and previously unseen patterns. However, two significant issues arise: there may be considerable interest in identifying specific structures within the novelty, and contamination in the known classes could completely blur the actual separation between manifest and new groups. Motivated by these problems, we propose a two-stage Bayesian semiparametric novelty detector, building upon prior information robustly extracted from a set of complete learning units. We devise a general-purpose multivariate methodology that we also extend to handle functional data objects. We provide insights on the model behavior by investigating the theoretical properties of the associated semiparametric prior. From the computational point of view, we propose a suitable$$\varvec{\xi }$$ξ-sequence to construct an independent slice-efficient sampler that takes into account the difference between manifest and novelty components. We showcase our model performance through an extensive simulation study and applications on both multivariate and functional datasets, in which diverse and distinctive unknown patterns are discovered.
Strong knowledge, weak belief?
Authors: Schulz Moritz
Published: May 2021

According to the knowledge norm of belief (Williamson in Knowledge and its limits, Oxford University Press, Oxford, p. 47, 2000), one should believeponly if one knowsp. However, it can easily seem that the ordinary notion of belief is much weaker than the knowledge norm would have it. It is possible to rationally believe things one knows to be unknown (Hawthorne et al. in Philos Stud 173:1393–1404, 2016; McGlynn in Noûs 47:385–407, 2013, Whiting in Chan (ed) The aim of belief, Oxford University Press, Oxford, 2013). One response to this observation is to develop a technical notion of ‘outright’ belief. A challenge for this line of response is to find a way of getting a grip on the targeted notion of belief. In order to meet this challenge, I characterize ‘outright’ belief in this paper as the strongest belief state implied by knowledge. I show that outright belief so construed allows this notion to play important theoretical roles in connection with knowledge, assertion and action.
Estimating Caprock Impact on CO2 Migration in the Gassum Formation Using 2D Seismic Line Data
Authors: Andersen Odd , Sundal Anja
Published: May 2021

Realizable CO2 storage potential for saline formations without closed lateral boundaries depends on the combined effects of physical and chemical trapping mechanisms to prevent long-term migration out of the defined storage area. One such mechanism is the topography of the caprock surface, which may retain CO2 in structural pockets along the migration path. Past theoretical and modeling studies suggest that even traps too small to be accurately described by seismic data may play a significant role. In this study, we use real but scarce seismic data from the Gassum Formation of the Norwegian Continental shelf to estimate the impact of topographical features of the top seal in limiting CO2 migration. We seek to estimate the amount of macro- and sub-scale trapping potential of the formation based on a few dozen interpreted 2D seismic lines and identified faults. We generate multiple high-resolution realizations of the top surface, constructed to be faithful to both large-scale topography and small-scale statistical properties. The structural trapping and plume retardation potential of these top surfaces is subsequently estimated using spill-point (static) analysis and dynamical flow simulation. By applying these techniques on a large ensemble of top surface realizations generated using a combination of stochastic realizations and systematic variation of key model parameters, we explore the range of possible impacts on plume advancement, physical trapping and migration direction. The stochastic analysis of trapping capacity and retardation efficiency in statistically generated, sub-seismic resolution features may also be applied for surfaces generated from 3D data.
Internalizing the externalities of overfunding: an agent-based model approach for analyzing the market dynamics on crowdfunding platforms
Authors: Koch Jascha-Alexander , Lausen Jens , Kohlhase Moritz
Published: May 2021

Crowdfunding platforms offer project initiators the opportunity to acquire funds from the Internet crowd and, therefore, have become a valuable alternative to traditional sources of funding. However, some processes on crowdfunding platforms cause undesirable external effects that influence the funding success of projects. In this context, we focus on the phenomenon of project overfunding. Massively overfunded projects have been discussed to overshadow other crowdfunding projects which in turn receive less funding. We propose a funding redistribution mechanism to internalize these overfunding externalities and to improve overall funding results. To evaluate this concept, we develop and deploy an agent-based model (ABM). This ABM is based on a multi-attribute decision-making approach and is suitable to simulate the dynamic funding processes on a crowdfunding platform. Our evaluation provides evidence that possible modifications of the crowdfunding mechanisms bear the chance to optimize funding results and to alleviate existing flaws.
Nationalpopulismus und Faschismus im historischen Vergleich. Zur Aktualität von Max Webers Herrschaftssoziologie
Authors: Bach Maurizio
Published: May 2021

Der Aufstieg des Rechtspopulismus im vergangenen Jahrzehnt, aber auch jüngst die „autoritär“ anmutenden staatlichen Maßnahmen zur Bekämpfung der Corona-Pandemie haben in verschiedenen politischen Lagern verstärkt Vergleiche mit dem historischen Faschismus evoziert. In dem Beitrag steht die Frage im Mittelpunkt, inwieweit ein solcher diachroner Vergleich empirisch belastbar und damit aussagekräftig ist. Methodisch orientiert sich die Argumentation an Max Webers Konzept des Idealtypus, der als tertium comparationis angewendet werden kann. Mit dem „faschistischen Minimum“, einem soziologischen Begriffskonstrukt, das generelle Strukturmerkmale faschistischer Bewegungen und Regime bündelt, steht ein theoretisch tragfähiger und empirisch gehaltvoller Vergleichsmaßstab zur Verfügung. Unter den analytischen Gesichtspunkten des „faschistischen Minimums“ prüft der Artikel, ob und gegebenenfalls in welchem Maße gegenwärtige Tendenzen der Politik und des Staates in Deutschland „faschistische“ Züge aufweisen.
Detoxification of the tricyclic antidepressant opipramol and its analog – IS-noh by UGT enzymes before and after activation by phase I enzymes in rat liver microsomes
Authors: Mieszkowska Anna , Hemine Koleta , Skwierawska Anna , Augustin Ewa , Mazerska Zofia
Published: May 2021

The present studies were carried out to evaluate the simultaneous one-pot metabolism of opipramol (IS-opi) and analog (IS-noh) by phase I and phase II enzymes present in rat liver microsomes (RLM) as an alternative to separate testing with recombinant enzymes. This approach allows for more time-saving and cost-effective screening of the metabolism of newly discovered drugs. We also considered that the lack of results for phase II, including UGT, often creates problems in correct selection of valuable compounds. Moreover, microsomes data set is richer in the contest and provides medical scientist to determine also the susceptibility of drugs to undergo phase I and then phase II. In the present work, we have shown that IS-noh was metabolized in vitro by phase I enzymes to the oxidation product, which was next transformed with UGTs to glucuronide. The results showed also that the previously known oxidation product of opipramol was changed to previously no reported glucuronidation product by UDP-glucuronosyltransferases. In addition, unlike IS-noh, opipramol did not prove to be the substrate for UGTs. Therefore, tricyclic antidepressants depending on the structure can trigger a different response after contact with UGT enzymes. Some will metabolize directly with UGTs, others only after activation by phase I enzymes.
Negative updating applied to the best-of-n problem with noisy qualities
Authors: Lee Chanelle , Lawry Jonathan , Winfield Alan F. T.
Published: May 2021

The ability to perform well in the presence of noise is an important consideration when evaluating the effectiveness of a collective decision-making framework. Any system deployed for real-world applications will have to perform well in complex and uncertain environments, and a component of this is the limited reliability and accuracy of evidence sources. In particular, in swarm robotics there is an emphasis on small and inexpensive robots which are often equipped with low-cost sensors more prone to suffer from noisy readings. This paper presents an exploratory investigation into the robustness of a negative updating approach to the best-of-n problem which utilises negative feedback from direct pairwise comparison of options and opinion pooling. A site selection task is conducted with a small-scale swarm of five e-puck robots choosing between $$n=7$$

n
=
7

options in a semi-virtual environment with varying levels of sensor noise. Simulation experiments are then used to investigate the scalability of the approach. We now vary the swarm size and observe the behaviour as the number of options n increases for different error levels with different pooling regimes. Preliminary results suggest that the approach is robust to noise in the form of noisy sensor readings for even small populations by supporting self-correction within the population.
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: Updates Through the Lens of Sports Cardiology
Authors: Lander Bradley S. , Phelan Dermot M. , Martinez Matthew W. , Dineen Elizabeth H.
Published: May 2021

Purpose of review

This review will summarize the distinction between hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and exercise-induced cardiac remodeling (EICR), describe treatments of particular relevance to athletes with HCM, and highlight the evolution of recommendations for exercise and competitive sport participation relevant to individuals with HCM.

Recent findings

Whereas prior guidelines have excluded individuals with HCM from more than mild-intensity exercise, recent data show that moderate-intensity exercise improves functional capacity and indices of cardiac function and continuation of competitive sports may not be associated with worse outcomes. Moreover, recent studies of athletes with implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) demonstrated a safer profile than previously understood. In this context, the updated American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology (AHA/ACC) and European Society of Cardiology (ESC) HCM guidelines have increased focus on shared decision-making and liberalized restrictions on exercise and sport participation among individuals with HCM.

New data demonstrating the safety of exercise in individuals with HCM and in athletes with ICDs, in addition to a focus on shared decision-making, have led to the most updated guidelines easing restrictions on exercise and competitive athletics in this population. Further athlete-specific studies of HCM, especially in the context of emerging therapies such as mavacamten, are important to inform accurate risk stratification and eligibility recommendations.
Endocrine-related adverse events in a large series of cancer patients treated with anti-PD1 therapy
Authors: Rubino Rossella , Marini Andrea , Roviello Giandomenico , Presotto Elena Margherita , Desideri Isacco , Ciardetti Isabella , Brugia Marco , Pimpinelli Nicola , Antonuzzo Lorenzo , Mini Enrico , Livi Lorenzo , Maggi Mario , Peri Alessandro
Published: May 2021

Purpose

Immune checkpoint inhibitors have opened a new scenario in the treatment of cancer. These agents can elicit adverse events, which may affect different systems and organs, including the endocrine system. The aims of this study were to evaluate the impact of the anti-PD-1 molecules nivolumab and pembrolizumab on endocrine toxicity and on patient outcome.

Methods

A retrospective and multicentre study was designed, which involved a total of 251 patients affected by different tumors (mostly non-small cell lung cancer, 68.92% and melanoma, 24.30%) and treated with the PD-1 inhibitors nivolumab (61.35%) or pembrolizumab (38.65%) for up to 60 months. Clinical and biochemical data were recorded until July 31, 2020.

Results

Endocrine toxicity occurred in 70 out of 251 patients (27.89%). It was mostly related to thyroid dysfunction and in 75% of cases occurred within 6 months from the beginning of therapy. A previous endocrine morbidity and female gender were predictors of endocrine toxicity. There was no association between endocrine dysfunction and patient outcome. However, when all toxicities (i.e., endocrine and non endocrine) were considered, a significant association with progression-free survival and overall survival was found.

Conclusions

Thyroid alterations are frequently observed in cancer patients treated with anti PD-1 drugs, particularly in women and in the presence of a previous endocrinopathy. We suggest that regular thyroid assessment should be performed in these patients, especially in the first months of therapy. Finally, the onset of side effects, related to anti PD-1 agents, appears to be associated with a better outcome.
Clinical presentation, genotype–phenotype correlations, and outcome of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors in Von Hippel–Lindau syndrome
Authors: Penitenti F. , Landoni L. , Scardoni M. , Piredda M. L. , Cingarlini S. , Scarpa A. , D’Onofrio M. , Girelli D. , Davi M. V.
Published: May 2021

Purpose

Data regarding the clinical management and follow-up of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PanNETs) associated with Von Hippel–Lindau (VHL) syndrome are limited. This study aimed to assess clinical presentation, genotype–phenotype correlations, treatment and prognosis of PanNETs in a series of VHL syndrome patients.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of data of patients observed between 2005 and 2020.

Results

Seventeen patients, including 12 probands and 5 relatives (mean age 30.8 ± 18.4; 7 males), were recruited. PanNETs were found in 13/17 patients (77.5%) at a median age of 37 years: 4/13 (30.7%) at the time of VHL diagnosis and 9 (69.3%) during follow up. Six (46.1%) PanNET patients underwent surgery, whereas seven were conservatively treated (mean tumor diameter: 40 ± 10.9 vs. 15 ± 5.3 mm respectively). Four patients (30.7%) had lymph node metastases and a mean tumor diameter significantly larger than the nonmetastatic PanNETs (44.2 ± 9.3 vs. 17.4 ± 7 mm, p = 0.00049, respectively). Five (83.3%) operated patients had stable disease after a median follow up of 3 years whereas one patient showed liver metastases. Six (85.7%) non-resected PanNETs were stable after a median follow-up of 2 years, whereas one patient developed a new small PanNET and a slight increase in diameter of a pre-existing PanNET. No correlation was found between the type of germline mutation and malignant behavior of PanNETs.

Conclusions

PanNETs are a common disease of the VHL syndrome and can be the presenting feature. Tumor size rather than genetic mutation is a prognostic factor of malignancy.
The International Development of Open Access Publishing: A Comparative Empirical Analysis Over Seven World Regions and Nine Academic Disciplines
Authors: Demeter Marton , Jele Agnes , Major Zsolt Balázs
Published: May 2021

This paper offers a cross-country and cross-disciplinary analysis of the development of open access publishing from 2000 to 2019. Through an analysis of seven world regions and nine scholarly fields, we found that, while the overall share of open access journals has increased significantly over the last two decades, there are important differences across both the analyzed world regions and disciplines. We also found that, with the exception of neuroscience, the proportion of open access journals is considerably lower among the journals ranked in the Q1 quartile of Scopus than in the general field. We also offer a model that explains the development of open access publishing trends on different disciplinary and geographical levels.
When it really counts: Investigating the relation between trait mindfulness and actual prosocial behavior
Authors: Schindler Simon , Pfattheicher Stefan
Published: May 2021

Meta-analytical findings suggested a positive link between trait mindfulness and prosociality. However, most correlational studies on mindfulness and prosociality have relied on self-report measures. The present work aimed to address this serious limitation by investigating actual prosocial behavior. We further focused on mindfulness as a multi-dimensional personality trait to disentangle effects of different mindfulness aspects. In addition, we tested whether the relation between trait mindfulness and prosocial behavior emerges under a theoretical meaningful experimental boundary condition (i.e., feelings of guilt). In two studies (using four different samples; N = 1240), we did not find support for a positive link between trait mindfulness and (a) charitable donation and (b) behavior in an incentivized economic game, respectively. Evidence for manipulated guilt-level as a moderator was inconclusive. Taken together, the findings point to a more complex role of trait mindfulness for prosocial behavior. Limitations and ideas for further research are discussed.
Clinical Presentation of Varicose Veins
Authors: Ghosh Shantonu Kumar , Al Mamun Abdullah , Majumder Alpana
Published: May 2021

Varicose vein is one type of venous insufficiency that presents with any dilated, elongated, or tortuous veins caused by permanent loss of its valvular efficiency. Destruction of venous valves in the axial veins results in venous hypertension, reflux, and total dilatation, causing varicosities and transudation of fluid into subcutaneous tissue. The first documented reference of varicose veins was found as illustrations on Ebers Papyrus dated 1550 B.C. in Athens. Evidence of surgical intervention was found in the 1860s. However dramatic advances of varicose vein management occurred in the latter half of twentieth century. Varicose veins affect from 40 to 60% of women and 15 to 30% men. Multiple intrinsic and extrinsic factors including age, gender, pregnancy, weight, height, race, diet, bowel habits, occupation, posture, previous DVT, genetics, and climate are considered to be the predisposing factors for formation of varicose vein. Other reported factors are hereditary, standing occupation, chair sitting, tight underclothes, raised toilet seats, lack of exercise, smoking, and oral contraceptives. Common symptoms are unsightly visible veins, pain, aching, swelling, itching, skin changes, ulceration, thrombophlebitis, and bleeding. The signs of varicose vein disease are edema, varicose eczema or thrombophlebitis, ulcers (typically found over the medial malleolus), hemosiderin skin staining, lipodermatosclerosis (tapering of legs above ankles, an “inverted champagne bottle” appearance), and atrophie blanche. Varicose vein is classified according to CEAP classification, the components of which are clinical, etiological, anatomy, and pathophysiology. The revised CEAP classification was published on 2020 based on four principles which were preservation of the reproducibility of CEAP, compatibility with prior versions, evidence-based medicine, and practicality.
The Italian contribution to the construction of the linac for the European spallation source
Authors: Gammino S. , Fabris A. , Lindroos M.
Published: May 2021

The European spallation source (ESS) uses a linear accelerator (linac) to deliver the high intensity proton beam to the target station for producing intense beams of neutrons. At the exit of the linac, the proton beam will have 2 GeV energy and 62.5 mA current. The construction of an accelerator with the contribution of different laboratories is not a new concept but so far the laboratories were controlled by the same government (e.g. in USA and Japan) or they delivered components for an intergovernmental institution like CERN. The European Spallation Source is a research facility that gathers 40 active in-kind (IK) contributors from 13 States, even outside the European Union, so its construction is not only a technical and scientific challenge, but also an economic, political and social experiment. The case of the Italian contribution is interesting because of the structure of Italian industrial ecosystem, mostly based on small and medium-sized enterprises (SME), which may be unsuitable for the case of a research infrastructure which construction requires a high level of R&D investments. Conversely, the well-known flexibility of SME to adapt to the requirements have balanced the weakness and the results are satisfactory. Following the overview of the Linac design, the paper will focus on the key issues of the Italian contribution, the state of the project (73% completion up to now) along with the point of view of the ESS management and the lesson learnt; the major outcomes for the economy and society will complete the discussion.
Study of quality markers of antiuric acid formula by grey relational analysis
Authors: Wang Fang , Cao Jing , Li Yang , Ren Fugang , Bai Jing , Dong Qiang , Guo Jinlin
Published: May 2021

Gout has become a global problem, antiuric acid formula (AAF) is a clinical prescription highly effective in reducing uric acid levels. In order to find its quality control standards and contribute to the treatment of gout in the future, we adopted high-performance liquid chromatography and orbitrap liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry to establish fingerprints of 13 batches of AAF. The different batches of AAF were tested the activity of inhibit uric acid by the xanthine oxidase inhibition experiment. Grey relational analysis and bio-activity validation to assess the spectrum–effect relationship. Finally, we choose puerarin, calycosin-7-O-beta-d-glucoside and puerarin apioside as the AAF quality control component, and its average content is 6036.006 μg/g, 296.113 μg/g and 878.285 μg/g. As the quality control components of AAF, puerarin, calycosin-7-O-beta-d-glucoside and puerarin apioside can be of great significance for the treatment of gout and gout related research.
Recruitment and disengagement: two sides of the same coin or different phenomena?
Authors: Santos Nascimento Jamile , Klandermans Bert , de Theije Marjo
Published: May 2021

We investigate the disengagement of four former activists of the Landless Rural Workers Movement (Movimento dos Trabalhadores Rurais Sem Terra—MST) in Brazil. The MST is the largest Brazilian social movement and has mobilized activists for over 30 years. The trajectories of recruitment, participation and disengagement of its activists serve as emblematic cases for the study of disengagement in social movements in general. This research contributes to the understanding of the activists’ disengagement from a social movement, a phenomenon that has been little studied. It sheds new light on the study of disengagement in two ways. First, some characteristics of the MST, in particular that many activists live in tight-knit communities, children participation and the activists’ long-lasting participation, open up new possibilities for the analysis of factors that influence disengagement pointed out in previous studies. In addition, the analysis of former activists’ whole trajectories of recruitment-participation-disengagement allows us show that considering disengagement as the analogous process as recruitment cannot explain all of its aspects. Given that the reasons that make someone leave a movement are, not always, the same that made someone join it. A multiple-case study design was used. The semi-structured interviews encompassing the engagement trajectories of the former activists served very well to the purpose of evidencing the multi-level character of the disengagement decision-making. Our analysis reveals how the social context, the movement and the activists’ personal characteristics in conjunction play a pivotal role.
Surface characteristics modification of lm25 aluminum alloy – 5% sic particulate metal matrix composites by friction stir processing
Authors: Vijayavel P. , Rajkumar I. , Sundararajan T.
Published: May 2021

Stir casting is employed for successful casting of aluminum-based metal matrix composite (MMC) plates of 12 mm thickness. Surface imperfections, porosity and reinforcement agglomeration are the main concerns in stir casting processes. Solid state friction stir processing (FSP) enhances mechanical characteristics by grain refinement and uniform distribution of reinforcement of MMC. Some of the crucial specifications of FSP include the tool traverse speed, tool rotational speed, tool shoulder diameter (D/d) ratio, pin design, pin length and axial force. In this investigation, five varying tool traverse speeds ranging between 20 mm and 60 mm per min were experimented on the stir cast plates. The wear rate, microstructure and microhardness evaluation on FSP plates revealed that wear resistance of 40 mm/min tool traverse speed FSP plate is superior and attribute to significant microhardness values. In addition, fine grains, uniform distribution and SiC particle bonding with aluminum matrix contribute to effective resistance to wear.
Monotheism and Human Nature
Authors: Bailey Andrew M.
Published: May 2021

The main question of this Element is how the existence, supremacy, and uniqueness of an almighty and immaterial God bear on our own nature. It aims to uncover lessons about what we are by thinking about what God might be. A dominant theme is that Abrahamic monotheism is a surprisingly hospitable framework within which to defend and develop the view that we are wholly material beings. But the resulting materialism cannot be of any standard variety. It demands revisions and twists on the usual views. We can indeed learn about ourselves by learning about God. One thing we learn is that, though we are indeed wholly material beings, we're not nearly as ordinary as we might seem.
‘I was altogether out of tune with my colleagues’: Conor Cruise O'Brien and Northern Ireland, 1969–77
Authors: Kelly Stephen
Published: May 2021

This article critically re-assesses Conor Cruise O'Brien's attitude to Northern Ireland between 1969 and 1977. It argues that O'Brien's most significant contribution to public life was the ability to deconstruct many aspects of Irish nationalism, specifically his rejection of the Irish state's irredentist claim over Northern Ireland. In doing so, it contends that O'Brien was one of the most important, and outspoken, champions of so-called ‘revisionist nationalism’ of his generation. The article examines three themes in relation to O'Brien's attitude to Northern Ireland: his attack on the Irish state's anti-partitionism; his rejection of Irish republican terrorism; and his support for the ‘principle of consent’ argument. The article illustrates that O'Brien was criticised in nationalist circles and accused of committing political heresy. Indeed, his willingness to challenge the attitude of most mainstream Irish politicians on Northern Ireland invariably left him an isolated figure, even among his own Labour Party comrades. Writing in his Memoir, O'Brien neatly summed up the difficult position in which he found himself: ‘I was altogether out of tune with my colleagues over Northern Ireland’.
The homotopy classification of four-dimensional toric orbifolds
Authors: Fu Xin , So Tseleung , Song Jongbaek
Published: May 2021

Let X be a 4-dimensional toric orbifold. If $H^{3}(X)$ has a non-trivial odd primary torsion, then we show that X is homotopy equivalent to the wedge of a Moore space and a CW-complex. As a corollary, given two 4-dimensional toric orbifolds having no 2-torsion in the cohomology, we prove that they have the same homotopy type if and only their integral cohomology rings are isomorphic.